bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuboimpedance: A New Test of Eustachian Tube Function
Authors: Smith Matthew E. , Zou Charlie C. , Blythe Andrew J. C. , Tysome James R.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Eustachian tube (ET) dysfunction is most frequently caused by a failure of the ET to adequately open; however, there is currently no reliable method of assessing this. Tubomanometry has recently shown good interindividual repeatability as a measure of ET function by measuring middle ear pressure after the application of regulated nasopharyngeal pressures during swallowing. We present the first reports of a novel test: middle ear impedance measurements during standard nasopharyngeal pressure application (tuboimpedance). We assess repeatability in healthy ears and any advantages over tubomanometry.

Study Design

Exploratory cohort diagnosis study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects

Twenty screened, healthy ears (10 volunteers).

Methods

Tubomanometry and tuboimpedance tests were performed while individuals swallowed with applied nasopharyngeal pressures of 20, 30, 40, and 50 mbar. Eustachian tube opening detection rate and test repeatability (measured by intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]) for immediate and delayed repeats at each pressure were compared.

Results

ET opening was detected more frequently using tuboimpedance, with a 100% detection rate using a nasopharyngeal pressure of 30 mbar or more, compared to 88% to 96% with tubomanometry. Detection of ET opening at 20 mbar was possible with tuboimpedance. Repeatability of both tests was mostly strong (ICC >0.7) for both immediate and delayed repeats. Repeatability for the tubomanometry R value was only fair to moderate.

Conclusion

Tuboimpedance may provide a repeatable measure of ET opening that is easier to perform due to lower nasopharyngeal pressures required and fewer issues with poor ear‐probe sealing. Further assessment in patients with different forms of ET dysfunction is required.
The Nasal Fracture Algorithm: A Case for Protocol‐Driven Management to Optimize Care and Resident Work Hours
Authors: Lanigan Alexander , Lospinoso Joshua , Bowe Sarah N. , Laury Adrienne M.
Published: January 2017

Since the initiation of resident duty hour restrictions, significant controversy has arisen regarding its impact on surgical resident training. We reviewed a singular facet of the otolaryngology residency experience, nasal bone fracture management, to identify if treatment standardization would improve care and efficiency. For 1 year, otolaryngology consults for isolated nasal fractures were analyzed to assess consultation trends, rate of intervention, and resident work hour utilization. Following a review of the literature, an evidence‐based algorithm for management of nasal fractures was developed. Analysis revealed a potential improvement in intervention rate from 20% to 100% with utilization of the algorithm, with an 84% decrease in overall emergency room and inpatient consultations. Sixty‐three hours of otherwise lost resident time would be gained. In the setting of Accreditation for Graduate Medical Education duty hour restrictions, implementation of protocol‐driven management may result in a decrease in work hours and serve as a model for more efficient otolaryngology care.
Israel-Palestine and the Settler Colonial ‘Turn’: From Interpretation to Decolonization
Authors: Busbridge Rachel
Published: January 2017

In recent years there has been a powerful resurgence of settler colonialism as an interpretive framework through which to understand the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Attached to the burgeoning field of settler colonial studies, this so-called ‘turn’ to settler colonialism has seen Israel-Palestine increasingly compared alongside New World white settler societies like Australia, Canada and the United States. In seeking to undercut the lens of exceptionalism through which the conflict has conventionally been viewed, the settler colonial paradigm has some important counter-hegemonic implications for reframing Israel-Palestine, not least of which is its prescription for decolonization. However, it is paradoxically in the context of decolonization that the limits of the settler colonial paradigm become most apparent. I argue that these limitations are connected to the dominance of Patrick Wolfe’s structural account of settler colonialism, which leaves very little room for transformation, and to the particular connotations settler colonial studies has acquired from the New World contexts in which it is most often articulated. This is particularly the case in Israel-Palestine, where these connotations preclude engagement with the national aspects of the conflict and leave under-examined the unique resonances of the settler/native distinction, which need reckoning with in any serious account of decolonization.
Improvement in patient-reported outcomes of varicose veins following treatment with polidocanol endovenous microfoam
Authors: Lal Brajesh K , Mallick Rajiv , Wright David
Published: January 2017

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between patient-reported symptoms and functional and psychological impact of varicose veins following treatment with polidocanol endovenous microfoam (PEM) 1%.

Methods

Data were pooled from two randomized trials on VV treatment. Wilson–Cleary health outcomes path model was applied to evaluate impact of VVSymQ™ symptom score improvement on modified VEINES-QOL/Sym functional and psychological scores. Change scores were evaluated for (i) PEM 1% versus placebo groups and (ii) quartiles of symptom improvement. Cumulative distribution function curves were generated to compare percentage of patients with various levels of functional and psychological improvement including clinically meaningful improvement across two treatment groups. Multivariable regression models of change scores and clinically meaningful changes were estimated.

Results

In 221 patients (109 PEM 1%; 112 placebo), PEM 1% was associated with median improvements of 2.5 points and 4.0 points on the m-VEINES-QOL/Sym functional limitations and m-VEINES-QOL/Sym psychological limitations scores, compared to 0 and 1.0 point improvements, respectively, for placebo. Cumulative distribution function curves revealed that 20–30% more patients in PEM 1% group achieved clinically meaningful functional and psychological improvement versus placebo group.

Conclusions

Patients with above-average symptom improvement had better functional and psychological improvement. PEM 1% treatment had higher odds of clinically meaningful functional and psychological improvement.
Description of an early cognitive behavioral intervention (UPFRONT-intervention) following mild traumatic brain injury to prevent persistent complaints and facilitate return to work
Authors: Scheenen Myrthe E , Visser-Keizer Annemarie C , van der Naalt Joukje , Spikman Jacoba M
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

Many patients with mild traumatic brain injury do not fully return to work owing to persistent posttraumatic complaints. Research suggests that preventing chronic complaints might be prevented by giving cognitive behavioral therapy early after injury. Therefore, a new cognitive behavioral intervention (UPFRONT-intervention) was developed to not only prevent chronic complaints but to also establish a more successful return to work. The intervention is currently being evaluated in a multicenter randomized controlled trial design (trial number ISRCTN86191894) in mild traumatic brain injury patients who are at-risk of negative outcomes (patients with high numbers of early complaints). Two case examples are presented to demonstrate the application of the intervention.

Rationale:

Psychological factors, like cognitive appraisal and coping, play an important role in the persistence of posttraumatic complaints. Some patients are less able to adapt and thus to cope with the injury and its initial consequences than others. Dealing with the injury in a passive, avoidant way, focusing on negative feelings, will hamper recovery and is therefore a valuable target for an intervention.

Theory into practice:

The UPFRONT intervention is a short cognitive behavioral therapy intervention for patients that are at-risk of developing persistent posttraumatic complaints. Patients will undergo five sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy within 4–10 weeks after trauma. The intervention aims to enhance patients’ feeling of competency of dealing with the consequences of mild traumatic brain injury by providing psycho-education, identifying and challenging unrealistic illness perceptions and improving coping style (decreasing maladaptive coping and enhancing adaptive coping).
Dorsal striatum D1-expressing neurons are involved with sensorimotor gating on prepulse inhibition test
Authors: Rodrigues Samanta , Salum Cristiane , Ferreira Tatiana L
Published: January 2017

Prepulse inhibition (PPI) is a behavioral test in which the startle reflex response to a high-intensity stimulus (pulse) is inhibited by the prior presentation of a weak stimulus (prepulse). The classic neural circuitry that mediates startle response is localized in the brainstem; however, recent studies point to the contribution of structures involved in higher cognitive functions in regulating the sensorimotor gating, particularly forebrain regions innervated by dopaminergic nuclei. The aim of the present study was to verify the role of dorsal striatum (DS) and dopaminergic transmitting mediated by D1 and D2 receptors on PPI test in rats. DS inactivation induced by muscimol injection did not affect PPI (%PPI and startle response), although it impaired the locomotor activity and caused catalepsy. Infusion of D1-like antagonist SCH23390 impaired %PPI but did not disturb the startle response and locomotor activity evaluated immediately after PPI test. D2 antagonist microinjection (sulpiride) did not affect %PPI and startle response, but impaired motor activity. These results point to an important role of DS, probably mediated by direct basal ganglia pathway, on modulation of sensorimotor gating, in accordance with clinical studies showing PPI deficits in schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome, and compulsive disorders – pathologies related to basal ganglia dysfunctions.
Effects of perinatal diet and prenatal stress on the behavioural profile of aged male and female rats
Authors: Bengoetxea Xabier , Paternain Laura , Martisova Eva , Milagro Fermin I , Martínez J Alfredo , Campión Javier , Ramírez María J
Published: January 2017

The present work studies whether chronic prenatal stress (PS) influences the long-term sex-dependent neuropsychological status of offspring and the effects of an early dietary intervention in the dam. In addition, dams were fed with either a high-fat sugar diet (HFSD) or methyl donor supplemented diet (MDSD). PS procedure did not affect body weight of the offspring. MDSD induced decreases in body weight both in male and female offspring (1 month) that were still present in aged rats. HFSD induced an increase in body weight both in male and female offspring that did not persist in aged rats. In the Porsolt forced swimming test, only young males showed increases in immobility time that were reversed by MDSD. In old female rats (20 months), PS-induced cognitive impairment in both the novel object recognition test (NORT) and in the Morris water maze that was reversed by MDSD, whereas in old males, cognitive impairments and reversion by MDSD was evident only in the Morris water maze. HFSD induced cognitive impairment in both control and PS old rats, but there was no additive effect of PS and HFSD. It is proposed here that the diversity of symptoms following PS could arise from programming effects in early brain development and that these effects could be modified by dietary intake of the dam.
Non-mass breast lesions on ultrasound: final outcomes and predictors of malignancy
Authors: Park Jong Won , Ko Kyung Hee , Kim Eun-Kyung , Kuzmiak Cherie M , Jung Hae Kyoung
Published: January 2017

Background

Breast cancer can present as non-mass lesions (NMLs) on ultrasound. However, knowledge of and understanding about NMLs are scarce.

Purpose

To retrospectively investigate the final outcomes of sonographic breast NMLs and determine the clinical and radiologic variables associated with malignancy

Material and Methods

In our radiologic database of breast ultrasound examinations between 2011 and 2014, we found 119 women with 121 NMLs with available histopathologic or sonographic follow-up (over 2 years) data. We collected the clinical variables (patient’s age, symptoms, and mammographic density) and histopathologic data as well as radiologic variables (mammographic and ultrasound findings) after retrospective review by two radiologists, the authors of the current paper, in consensus. We classified the ultrasound findings according to distribution (focal, linear or segmental, and regional) and associated features (calcification, architectural distortion, and ductal changes) and analyzed the associations between variables and malignancy using the t test and χ2 test.

Results

Of the 121 NMLs, 88 (72.7%) were benign and 33 (27.3%) were malignant. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) (17/33, 51.5%) and invasive ductal cancer with or without DCIS (13/33, 39.4%) comprised the main malignancies, and malignancy was significantly associated with palpability ( P = 0.000). Mammographic findings and sonographic distribution and associated features were significantly different between benign and malignant lesions ( P = 0.000, P = 0.004, and P = 0.001, respectively). Malignant lesions showed more frequent calcifications combined with asymmetry ( P = 0.000) on mammography and linear-segmental distributions ( P = 0.001) and associated calcifications ( P = 0.019) or architectural distortions ( P = 0.015) on ultrasound.

Conclusion

Breast NMLs on ultrasound showed high risk of malignancy. Symptoms and mammographic and ultrasound findings can be possible predictors of malignancy in NMLs.
The Relation Between a Sense of Meaning in Life and Suicide Potential Among Disadvantaged Adolescent Girls
Authors: Aviad-Wilchek Y. , Ne’eman-Haviv Vered
Published: January 2017

The study examines the influence of the sense of meaning in life, or its absence, on the suicide potential of disadvantaged adolescent girls in Israel who reside in boarding school ( n = 50) compared with adolescent girls in a rehabilitation project ( n = 31), and between them and normative adolescent girls ( n = 128). The research findings indicate a negative relation between meaning in life and suicide potential, which exists only among the normative adolescent girls and the disadvantaged adolescent girls residing in the boarding school. This relation does not exist among the disadvantaged adolescent girls in the rehabilitation project. The explanation for this unusual finding is, apparently, the early stage of rehabilitation at which the adolescent girls are found. In conclusion, this study joins previous studies that propose prevention, intervention, and therapy programs based on increasing adolescent (disadvantaged and not disadvantaged) strength factors by finding meaning to their lives.
Wind farm wake modeling using NWTC design codes
Authors: Hao Yujia , Lackner Matthew A
Published: January 2017

Wind turbines located in a wind farm are subject to a wind field that is substantially modified when compared to the ambient wind field due to wake effects. It is clear that in addition to the power, a tool that could model the loads of the waked turbine is needed. In this work, a wind farm wake model is created using a single wake model based on the dynamic wake meandering model to systematically model the wake effects and thus the power and loads of an entire wind farm with an arbitrary wind turbine layout and wind condition. This wind farm wake model is incorporated into the National Wind Technology Center design codes. Preliminary results demonstrate that this wind farm tool yields satisfactory results when compared with Simulator for Wind Farm Applications, a high fidelity computational fluid dynamics Large eddy simulation model, and with experimentally-obtained field data. The integration of the wind farm model with the National Wind Technology Center design codes is described in detail and validation results of the tool are provided.
Increasing the regulating ability of lift force in the power-limited mode of wind turbines based on plasma technology
Authors: Udalov Sergey N , Achitaev Andrey A , Tarbill Richard D
Published: January 2017

This article presents theoretical calculations of using a plasma actuator in a wind turbine for increasing its regulating ability. Calculations were done taking into account the pressure difference caused by an ozone layer. A series of calculations were carried out based on the QuickField software with the use of calculations of elastic deformations for determination of the influence on the resultant lift force. Distribution of the dielectric strength was calculated that is required for estimation of the ionization area. Vector diagrams were presented which show the influence of the plasma actuator at different sides of a wind turbine blade on the resultant lift force. The equation describing the influence of the plasma actuator was derived. Investigations carried out in this article have shown that the maximum regulating effect is about 25%. It should be noted that the position of the plasma actuator on the blade also influences the value of the lift force. Therefore, regulating properties of wind turbines are improved. Theoretical calculations were validated experimentally at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Denver. Note that the main advantages of the plasma actuator as the part of a wind turbine are simplicity and the possibility of increasing regulating properties of a wind turbine.
Inverse relationship between type 1 diabetes mellitus and migraine. Data from the Nord-Trøndelag Health Surveys 1995–1997 and 2006–2008
Authors: Hagen Knut , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Midthjell Kristian , Stovner Lars Jacob , Zwart John-Anker , Linde Mattias
Published: January 2017

Aims

The aim of this cross-sectional population-based study was to investigate the associations between migraine and type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

We used data from the second (1995–1997) and third survey (2006–2008) in the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study. Analyses were made for the 26,121 participants (30–97 years of age, median 58.3 years) with known headache and DM status in both surveys, and for the 39,584 participants in the third survey (20–97 years, median 54.1 years). The diagnosis of migraine was given to those who fulfilled the questionnaire-based migraine diagnosis in the second and/or third survey. Associations were assessed using multiple logistic regression, estimating prevalence odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

In the multivariate analysis of the 26,121 participants in both surveys, adjusting for age, gender, years of education, and smoking, classical type 1 DM (n = 81) was associated with a lower prevalence of any headache (OR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.34–0.88),and migraine (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.26–0.96) compared to those without DM (n = 24,779). Correspondingly, the merged group of classical type 1 DM and latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA) (n = 153) were less likely to have migraine (OR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.31–0.91). Similarly, an inverse relationship between type 1 DM and migraine was found in analyses of 39,584 participants in the third survey. No clear association was found between headache and type 2 DM.

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional population-based study of mainly middle-aged participants, type 1 DM was inversely associated with headache, in particular migraine.
Pre-Treatment of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells With Inflammatory Factors or Hypoxia Does Not Influence Migration to Osteoarthritic Cartilage and Synovium
Authors: Leijs Maarten J.C. , van Buul Gerben M. , Verhaar Jan A.N. , Hoogduijn Martin J. , Bos Pieter K. , van Osch Gerjo J.V.M.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising candidates as a cell-based therapy for osteoarthritis (OA), although current results are modest. Pre-treatment of MSCs before application might improve their therapeutic efficacy.

Hypothesis:

Pre-treatment of MSCs with inflammatory factors or hypoxia will improve their migration and adhesion capacities toward OA-affected tissues.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

We used real-time polymerase chain reaction to determine the effects of different fetal calf serum (FCS) batches, platelet lysate (PL), hypoxia, inflammatory factors, factors secreted by OA tissues, and OA synovial fluid (SF) on the expression of 12 genes encoding chemokine or adhesion receptors. Migration of MSCs toward factors secreted by OA tissues was studied in vitro, and attachment of injected MSCs was evaluated in vivo in healthy and OA knees of male Wistar rats.

Results:

Different FCS batches, PL, or hypoxia did not influence the expression of the migration and adhesion receptor genes. Exposure to inflammatory factors altered the expression of CCR1, CCR4, CD44, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ. MSCs migrated toward factors secreted by OA tissues in vitro. Neither pre-treatment with inflammatory factors nor the presence of OA influenced MSC migration in vitro or adhesion in vivo.

Conclusion:

Factors secreted by OA tissues increase MSC migration in vitro. In vivo, no difference in MSC adhesion was found between OA and healthy knees. Pre-treatment with inflammatory factors influenced the expression of migration and adhesion receptors of MSCs but not their migration in vitro or adhesion in vivo.

Clinical Relevance:

To improve the therapeutic capacity of intra-articular injection of MSCs, they need to remain intra-articular for a longer period of time. Pre-treatment of MSCs with hypoxia or inflammatory factors did not increase the migration or adhesion capacity of MSCs and will therefore not likely prolong their intra-articular longevity. Alternative approaches to prolong the intra-articular presence of MSCs should be developed to increase the therapeutic effect of MSCs in OA.
Psychometric Properties of the German School Refusal Assessment Scale–Revised
Authors: Walter Daniel , von Bialy Johanna , von Wirth Elena , Doepfner Manfred
Published: January 2017

The School Refusal Assessment Scale–Revised (SRAS-R) is a widely used measure of the functional conditions leading to school absenteeism. In the present study, we developed a German version of the SRAS-R and investigated its psychometric properties in a clinical sample ( N = 62) of referred school absentees aged 11 to 17 years. Results of an exploratory factor analysis revealed a four-factor solution for the self-rated version and a three-factor solution for the parent-rated version. All four subscales of the final 22-item German SRAS-R were internally consistent. Convergent and discriminant validity were shown by significant correlations with other scales assessing internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Overall, the German SRAS-R is a valuable instrument for assessing school absenting behavior. The results should be interpreted conservatively due to the limited sample size.
Dysphagia in a Palliative Care Setting — A Coordinated Overview of Caregivers' Responses to Dietary Changes: The DysCORD Qualitative Study
Authors: Smith Beverley J. , Chong Lisa , Nam Seungree , Seto Ronald
Published: January 2017

Primary caregivers (PCGs) are closely involved in preparing meals and feeding patients who are at the end of life, yet their responses to patients' swallowing difficulties have not been extensively analyzed. This study aimed to reach an understanding of PCGs' beliefs, values, and responses to dysphagia and dietary modifications in the palliative care setting. A total of 14 PCGs were interviewed and asked to share their thoughts and feelings about patients' dysphagia symptoms and the diet changes resulting from these symptoms. Qualitative descriptive analysis revealed four emerging themes: caregivers' knowledge, the symbolic role of food, emotional responses to dysphagia, and discordance with dietary recommendations. Our study found that PCGs appear to have a strong desire to continue feeding patients. The findings suggest that providing PCGs with knowledge and emotional support could help them to deal with this issue.
Indwelling Peritoneal Catheters for Managing Malignancy-Associated Ascites
Authors: Wong Benson Chun To , Cake Lorraine , Kachuik Lynn , Amjadi Kayvan
Published: January 2017

We investigated use of the tunnelled catheter in a large palliative population with malignancy-associated ascites employing retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained patient database of tunnelled peritoneal catheter insertions for refractory malignancy-associated ascites or new rapidly accumulating ascites. We found that a 100 percent procedural success rate was achieved with 395 tunnelled catheters inserted in 386 patients. Catheters remained In situ for 66 days, on average. In a total of 22 cases (5.57 percent), complications developed. Nonfatal Infections occurred most commonly — in 15 cases (3.80 percent). Ascites stopped reaccumulating in 16 cases (4.05 percent), leading to catheter removal. The mean Baseline Dyspnea Index was 3.79 (95 percent confidence interval [CI], 3.64-3.94); the mean Transitional Dyspnea Index postinsertion was 5.14 (95 percent CI, 4.94–5.34). In all, 13 patients completed serial European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaires. Postinsertion, overall quality of life improved significantly (p<0.05), as did all functional domains and fatigue, pain, dyspnea, and appetite symptoms. The tunnelled peritoneal catheter is feasible and safe and causes minimal complications. Its use results in significant improvement in dyspnea and improvement in overall quality of life for a small number of patients.
Moments That Last Forever
Authors: Allen Barbara , Kautz Donald D.
Published: January 2017

This is the story of how Nurse Barbara Allen, one of the authors, met the spiritual needs of her patient, Kenny, through prayer as part of his end-of-life care. While prayer may not be a nurse's priority, it may be essential for some patients and their families, especially when death is near (1). Furthermore, the Joint Commission (2) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (3), which provides Magnet certification, have both encouraged nurses to address the spiritual needs of patients and their families. Barbara's prayer was appropriate because it was focused on Kenny's needs and beliefs, not hers. Being coercive and evangelizing and proselytizing is never appropriate for nurses (1). However, Barbara's story shows how when we stop to pray and be with patients in the moment, we can change ourselves and our patients forever. This is Barbara's story:
Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere Syndrome as a Mimic of Neuroimmune Disorders: 3 Cases From the Clinic and Review of the Literature
Authors: Allison Tyler , Roncero Inés , Forsyth Rob , Coffman Keith , Pichon Jean-Baptiste Le
Published: January 2017

We present 3 patients identified at 2 different institutions with Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome. Each patient was initially diagnosed with a neuroimmune disorder for a period of a few weeks to a few months. In each case, genetic analysis revealed mutations in one of the riboflavin transporters, confirming Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome. It is likely that Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome is more common than previously reported, and because it mimics neuroimmune disorders, it may be misdiagnosed as such. It shares many features with diseases such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy, may present with positive cerebrospinal fluid antibody titers, and may transiently respond to intravenous immunoglobulin. We review the literature on Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome and Fazio-Londe syndrome, 2 riboflavin transporter disorders, looking for clinical presentations that may lead to confusion with neuroimmune disorders. We emphasize the importance of correctly diagnosing the disease, as its treatment is relatively benign and will stop progression of the disease and may even reverse it.
Neonatal Respiratory Failure Caused by Congenital Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma
Authors: Satrom Katie M. , Phelan Rachel A. , Moertel Christopher L. , Brent Clark H. , Johnson Dana E. , George Thomas N.
Published: January 2017

The authors present a case of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma presenting in a newborn with stridor and respiratory distress that progressed to respiratory failure. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed findings compatible with the diagnosis of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. The family pursued palliative care and postmortem examination confirmed WHO grade III astrocytoma.
Intimate Partner Violence Survivors’ Reports of Their Children’s Exposure to Companion Animal Maltreatment: A Qualitative Study
Authors: McDonald Shelby Elaine , Collins Elizabeth A. , Maternick Anna , Nicotera Nicole , Graham-Bermann Sandra , Ascione Frank R. , Williams James Herbert
Published: January 2017

Children living in households where intimate partner violence (IPV) is present are at increased risk of being exposed to concomitant maltreatment of companion animals. Recent research suggests that childhood exposure to maltreatment of companion animals is associated with compromised socioemotional well-being in childhood and adulthood. To date, there is a dearth of qualitative research examining how children experience animal maltreatment in the context of IPV. The current qualitative study explored the following research question in an ethnically diverse sample of IPV survivors: How do maternal caregivers convey the ways in which their children experience animal maltreatment in IPV-affected households? Sixty-five women with at least one child (age 7-12 years) were recruited from domestic violence agencies and described their child(ren)’s experiences of animal maltreatment in the home. Template analysis was used to analyze interview data (KALPHA = .90). Three themes emerged related to children’s experiences of animal maltreatment: (a) direct exposure to animal maltreatment and related threats, (b) emotional and behavioral responses to animal maltreatment exposure, and (c) animal maltreatment as coercive control of the child. Results suggest that children’s exposure to animal maltreatment is multifaceted and may exacerbate children’s risk of negative psychosocial outcomes in the context of co-occurring IPV. Intervention programs designed to assist children exposed to IPV should consider the extent of children’s awareness of the abuse of their pets and their strong and deleterious reactions to it.
Preventing Wrongful Convictions: An Analysis of State Investigation Reforms
Authors: Norris Robert J. , Bonventre Catherine L. , Redlich Allison D. , Acker James R. , Lowe Carmen
Published: January 2017

As more innocents are exonerated and researchers learn more about the causes of wrongful convictions, criminal justice practices have been altered to reduce the number of erroneous convictions, although reforms have varied widely in scope and substance throughout the nation. In this article, we provide an analysis of state-level investigative reforms important to the production of wrongful convictions as of mid-2016. Specifically, we collect and describe reform efforts in three investigatory areas: eyewitness identification, forensics, and interrogations. We then discuss wrongful conviction reforms and the innocence movement more generally, focusing on the importance of continued research into wrongful convictions as a critical policy issue in criminal justice.
Captured Development
Authors: Jansa Joshua M. , Gray Virginia
Published: January 2017

Scholars focus on interstate competition and intrastate economic conditions as the primary determinants of state economic development policies, including direct subsidies. New data from the Good Jobs First Subsidy Tracker illustrates large differences in subsidy spending across the states and that established firms are the disproportionate beneficiaries. In light of this new evidence, we argue that the political presence of the business sector within the state is an important determinant of state subsidy spending. A large political presence helps forward industry interests before government and has the potential to capture state governments. We find support for the cultural capture model by demonstrating that a greater number of lobbyists and campaign contributions from businesses leads to more subsidy spending, all else equal. We conclude that subsidies, and which companies receive them, are a product of both politics and economics.
Outcomes of a Digital Health Program With Human Coaching for Diabetes Risk Reduction in a Medicare Population
Authors: Castro Sweet Cynthia M. , Chiguluri Vinay , Gumpina Rajiv , Abbott Paul , Madero Erica N. , Payne Mike , Happe Laura , Matanich Roger , Renda Andrew , Prewitt Todd
Published: January 2017

Objective: To examine the outcomes of a Medicare population who participated in a program combining digital health with human coaching for diabetes risk reduction. Method: People at risk for diabetes enrolled in a program combining digital health with human coaching. Participation and health outcomes were examined at 16 weeks and 6 and 12 months. Results: A total of 501 participants enrolled; 92% completed at least nine of 16 core lessons. Participants averaged 19 of 31 possible opportunities for weekly program engagement. At 12 months, participants lost 7.5% ( SD = 7.8%) of initial body weight; among participants with clinical data, glucose control improved (glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] change = −0.14%, p = .001) and total cholesterol decreased (−7.08 mg/dL, p = .008). Self-reported well-being, depression, and self-care improved ( p < .0001). Discussion: This Medicare population demonstrated sustained program engagement and improved weight, health, and well-being. The findings support digital programs with human coaching for reducing chronic disease risk among older adults.
‘They need to … ’: Exploring practitioners’ attitudes in relation to newcomer migrant children’s needs in Norwegian day care
Authors: Kalkman Kris , Haugen Gry Mette D. , Valenta Marko
Published: January 2017

Taking a critical stance on day care as a social site for democratic practice, this article focusses on practitioners’ attitudes regarding including newcomer migrant children in the assessment of their needs and decision-making processes in Norwegian day care. Considering the needs-discourse as a way of conveying both policy-makers’ and practitioners’ conclusions about the requirements of migrant children’s childhoods, we reveal how the individual agency of practitioners is captured by developmental culture-bound norms regarding what an ideal childhood should be.
Numerical simulation of the multiphase flow phenomena in the crankcase of an internal combustion engine
Authors: Oliva Alexander , Wachtmeister Georg
Published: January 2017

The flow processes in the crankcase of an internal combustion engine are essential for many sub areas of a combustion engine. Piston cooling, oil transport through the main and conrod bearings or the tribology of the piston assembly are some of them and take place in the crankcase. The oil supply of the liner plays an important role for the friction losses of an engine. Additionally oil aerosols are emerging in the crankcase. The sizes of the droplets are crucial for the oil separator dimensioning. Due to blow-by a part of the crankcase gas flows back to the intake manifold (via the oil separator) and the containing oil in the flow is responsible for additional emissions of the engine.

This study introduces a simulation method for the calculation of the multiphase flow phenomena in the crankcase of a four-cylinder diesel engine. All relevant effects have been identified and modeled numerically. The detailed geometry of the crankcase volume and all moving parts of the piston assembly have been considered in the model. To calculate the multiphase flow in the crankcase a discrete particle method has been chosen, where the gas flow is described continuously and the oil flow is modeled with the discrete droplet method. With this method the oil flow and the interaction with the gas flow can be calculated. The computational fluid dynamics results enable new insights into the crankcase flow of an internal combustion engine and therefore statements about the oil distribution in the crankcase can be made. That leads to further knowledge of the transport processes in the crankcase.
Modelling of the rotational vibrations of the engine front-end accessory drive system: a generic method
Authors: Feng Xiao , Shangguan Wen-Bin , Deng Jianxiang , Jing Xingjian , Ahmed Waizuddin
Published: January 2017

To investigate the rotation vibration dynamics of the pulleys and the tension arms, and to estimate the vibrations of the belts and the slip ratio between the belt and the pulleys in the engine front-end accessory drive systems, a systematic modelling and analytical method is proposed for engine front-end accessory drive systems; this can be used for modelling engine front-end accessory drive systems with different layouts and different numbers of tensioners, including automatic and fixed tensioners. In the modelling, the rotational pulleys are classified as fixed-axis pulleys and moveable-axis pulleys (such as the pulley in the tensioner). Moreover, the belt spans are classified as the belt spans between the two fixed pulleys, and the belt spans adjacent to the pulley of a tensioner. The equations of motion for each type of pulley and the tension calculation equations for each type of belt span are developed. In this way, the equations of motion for all the pulleys and the tensioner arms can be obtained easily, irrespective of the layout of the tensioners. To obtain the dynamic rotational vibration responses of an engine front-end accessory drive system by the conventional Runge–Kutta method, high-efficiency algorithms or methods are also proposed for calculating the tangent-point coordinates between a belt and the adjacent pulleys and the belt length of the contact arc on one pulley. The proposed modelling and analysis methods are validated by modelling different layouts of the engine front-end accessory drive systems with different types and numbers of tensioners, and also by comparisons between the calculated dynamic vibration responses of the pulleys and the belts and the real experimental data.
Rotary ultrasonic drilling on bone: A novel technique to put an end to thermal injury to bone
Authors: Gupta Vishal , Pandey Pulak M , Gupta Ravi K , Mridha Asit R
Published: January 2017

Bone drilling is common in orthopedic procedures and the heat produced during conventional experimental drilling often exceeds critical temperature of 47 °C and induces thermal osteonecrosis. The osteonecrosis may be the reason for impaired healing, early loosening and implant failure. This study was undertaken to control the temperature rise by interrupted cutting and reduced friction effects at the interface of drill tool and the bone surface. In this work, rotary ultrasonic drilling technique with diamond abrasive particles coated on the hollow drill tool without any internal or external cooling assistance was used. Experiments were performed at room temperature on the mid-diaphysis sections of fresh pig bones, which were harvested immediately after sacrifice of the animal. Both rotary ultrasonic drilling on bone and conventional surgical drilling on bone were performed in a five set of experiments on each process using identical constant process parameters. The maximum temperature of each trial was recorded by K-type thermocouple device. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid decalcification was done for microscopic examination of bone. In this comparative procedure, rotary ultrasonic drilling on bone produced much lower temperature, that is, 40.2 °C ± 0.4 °C and 40.3 °C ± 0.2 °C as compared to that of conventional surgical drilling on bone, that is, 74.9 °C ± 0.8 °C and 74.9 °C ± 0.6 °C with respect to thermocouples fixed at first and second position, respectively. The conventional surgical drilling on bone specimens revealed gross tissue burn, microscopic evidence of thermal osteonecrosis and tissue injury in the form of cracks due to the generated force during drilling. But our novel technique showed no such features. Rotary ultrasonic drilling on bone technique is robust and superior to other methods for drilling as it induces no thermal osteonecrosis and does not damage the bone by generating undue forces during drilling.
Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in an urban public hospital pregnancy termination clinic
Authors: Park JeeYoon , Zimmerman Lindsay , Stempinski Kelly , Bridge Rebecca , Roston Alicia , Patel Ashlesha
Published: January 2017

This study is a follow-up observational study to assess the prevalence of chlamydia (CT) and gonorrhea (GC) among women who undergo a first-trimester surgical termination in a large public, urban hospital-based termination clinic, and to compare the rates to previously published data. We conducted a retrospective chart review on 4197 patients who underwent CT and GC testing before an elective, first-trimester surgical termination between 1 June 2014 and 31 May 2015. The prevalence rates were calculated and compared by chi square tests to previously published data from 1 January 2006 to 30 June 2006 from the same publicly-funded pregnancy termination clinic. Our study population comprised mostly of African Americans (86.8%), and more than half were aged less than 25 years. The overall prevalence of CT in our population was 9.6%, which was significantly different to the prevalence of 11.4% in 2006 ( p value = 0.03). The overall prevalence of GC in our population was 1.9%, which was not significantly different to the prevalence of 2.6% in 2006. To conclude, this study demonstrates the high prevalence rate of CT-positive and GC-positive patients in our publicly-funded pregnancy termination clinic. The prevalence of infection with CT and GC in our study is higher than in other family planning clinics. Regular screening of all patients who undergo induced termination in pregnancy termination clinics can provide a valuable opportunity for physicians to counsel patients about sexually transmitted infection prevention and treatment prior to the procedure or distribution of medications.
Attention Modifies Spatial Resolution According to Task Demands
Authors: Barbot Antoine , Carrasco Marisa
Published: January 2017

How does visual attention affect spatial resolution? In texture-segmentation tasks, exogenous (involuntary) attention automatically increases resolution at the attended location, which improves performance where resolution is too low (at the periphery) but impairs performance where resolution is already too high (at central locations). Conversely, endogenous (voluntary) attention improves performance at all eccentricities, which suggests a more flexible mechanism. Here, using selective adaptation to spatial frequency, we investigated the mechanism by which endogenous attention benefits performance in resolution tasks. Participants detected a texture target that could appear at several eccentricities. Adapting to high or low spatial frequencies selectively affected performance in a manner consistent with changes in resolution. Moreover, adapting to high, but not low, frequencies mitigated the attentional benefit at central locations where resolution was too high; this shows that attention can improve performance by decreasing resolution. Altogether, our results indicate that endogenous attention benefits performance by modulating the contribution of high-frequency information in order to flexibly adjust spatial resolution according to task demands.
Impact of the ‘Little Ice Age’ climate cooling on the maar lake ecosystem affected by penguins: A lacustrine sediment record, Penguin Island, West Antarctica
Authors: Wasiłowska Agnieszka , Tatur Andrzej , Pushina Zinajda , Barczuk Andrzej , Verkulich Sergey
Published: January 2017

A Pliocene-age volcano on Penguin Island became active again in the Pleistocene/Holocene, forming the main cone of the island – Deacon Peak, and leaving late-Holocene phreatomagmatic craters, including ‘Petrel Crater’, about 200 m in diameter and filled currently by a maar lake with a flat bottom at 18 m water depth. Petrographic, geochemical, photosynthetic pigment, and diatom data from the 72-cm-long sediment core reveal that the crater was initially a marine lagoon with typical phytoplankton assemblages. Most probably, tectonic–volcanic activity about 1250 years ago, documented in tephra fallout, triggered an abrupt glacio-isostatic uplift that separated the lake from the sea. The horizon of tephra, probably from the Deception Island volcano, marks a sudden change in environment from brackish to lacustrine. The ecological evolution of the lake was initially constrained by an uplift, whereas the influence of marine water vanished with time, the lake became meromictic, and the freshwater mixolimnion layer expanded, while the monimolimnion became anoxic due to the influence of a penguin rookery situated on the shore. During the ‘Little Ice Age’ (LIA), the maar may have been covered by permanent ice. A discharge of mineralized guano from the possibly enlarged penguin rookery on the lake shore caused an expansion of the anoxic monimolimnion to the ice surface and an important reduction of autochthonous lacustrine biota of the maar, whereas a substantially increased participation of allochthonous biota passively supplied with guano. That record in the lake sediment core reaffirms the occurrence of a regional LIA event in the maritime Antarctic.
Protective effect of apocynin against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Abdelrahman RS
Published: January 2017

Gentamicin (GNT) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used for treatment of serious infections, and the nephrotoxic adverse effect is one of the main therapeutic limitations. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effect of apocynin (APO) on nephrotoxicity induced by GNT in rats. Twenty-four rats were allocated into three groups: control, GNT (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)), and GNT plus APO (10 mg/kg, i.p.). All rats were killed at the end of the experiment, and then the blood, urine, and kidneys samples were taken. GNT-induced nephrotoxicity was manifested by a significant ( p < 0.05) increase in the weight of kidney, 24-h urine volume, renal somatic index (RSI), protein in urine, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), renal Fas ligand (CD95), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, a significant reduction in body weight, creatinine clearance (CCr), serum albumin, renal superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione activities were detected when compared with the control rats. APO ameliorated the nephrotoxic effect and oxidative damage caused by GNT by improving tissue morphology and significantly decreasing 24-h urine volume, RSI, serum Cr, LDH and BUN, protein in urine, and renal content of MDA, CD95, and NO. Additionally, APO caused a significant elevation in renal SOD activity and CCr when compared with the GNT group. These results confirm that APO by its anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antioxidant effects can ameliorate GNT-induced nephrotoxicity.