bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making Biosciences Visible for Popular Consumption: Approaching Image–Text Relations in Newscientist.com Through a Critical Multimodal Analysis
Authors: Molek-Kozakowska Katarzyna
Published: August 2018

Salience or visibility of science-related issues can be strategically projected by means of linguistic and visual resources. This article presents a methodology for examining the relations between the textual properties of popular science discourse and the visual features of accompanying images. The advantages of this approach are demonstrated through a multimodal analysis of a sample of biomedical articles from New Scientist, which reveals the frequency and distribution of selected properties of visual images, typical aspects of layout, attributed functions of the images, and their relation to the text. Humanization, domestication, and aesthetization are dominant discursive strategies of popularity-driven science journalism.
Difference in Psychic Distress Lived by Parents With ADHD Children and Parents With Healthy Children: Focus on Gender Differences
Authors: Insa Inmaculada , Alda José A. , Chamorro Marta , Espadas Marta , Huguet Anna
Published: August 2018

Objective: ADHD has a complex and negative influence on the family system. The aim of this study was to analyze the perception of emotional distress in a group of parents of children with ADHD. Method: A sample was recruited from the public health system ADHD Unit at Sant Joan de Déu Hospital (Barcelona). The parents of 60 children with newly diagnosed ADHD and the parents of 60 healthy children were included. Results: Higher levels of distress in families with children with ADHD were seen. The distress is present in both parents, with a higher prevalence in the mothers group. A positive correlation was found between ADHD symptoms in the children and the distress reported by parents. A three times higher rate of separations and divorce among parents of children with ADHD was seen. Conclusion: ADHD in children and adolescents increases the emotional distress reported by parents, mainly related to the severity of symptoms present in the children.
Nonlinear buckling and post-buckling analysis of imperfect porous plates under mechanical loads
Authors: Tu Tran Minh , Hoa Le Kha , Hung Dang Xuan , Hai Le Thanh
Published: August 2018

The nonlinear buckling and post-buckling response of imperfect porous plates is investigated analytically in this paper. The porous materials with elastic moduli are assumed to vary through the thickness of the plate according to two different distribution types. Governing equations are derived based on the classical shell theory taking into account Von Karman nonlinearity and initial geometrical imperfection. Explicit relations of load–deflection curves for rectangular porous plates are determined by applying stress function and Galerkin’s method. The accuracy of present theoretical formulation is verified by comparing it with available results in the literature. The effects of varying porosity distribution, porosity coefficient, boundary condition and imperfection on post-buckling behavior of the porous plate are studied in detail. A parametric study is carried out to investigate the effects of varying porosity distribution, porosity coefficient, boundary condition and imperfection on post-buckling behavior of the porous plate. The results show that the critical buckling loads decrease with increasing porosity coefficient and the post-buckling curves for nonlinear symmetric porosity distribution are always higher than those for nonlinear non-symmetric porosity.
On the implications of tourism specialization and structural change in tourism destinations
Authors: Marsiglio Simone
Published: August 2018

We explore the relationship between tourism specialization and structural change in an endogenous growth model, analyzing its implications for both economic growth and tourist flows. We consider a two-sector economic growth model where the development of tourism activities generates a production externality and a structural change, which modifies the resources-use intensity, ultimately affecting tourist flows. We characterize the balanced growth path equilibrium and analyze under which conditions structural change may generate fast economic growth, providing a theoretical support for the empirical evidence on tourism countries. We also show that structural change may alternatively lead to stages of rejuvenation, stagnation, or decline consistently with what advanced by the tourism area life cycle hypothesis. By combining these different results, we also show that an eventual phase of decline generated by structural change does not necessarily have to be interpreted as a poor economic outcome since there might exist a bell-shaped relationship between residents’ income and number of visitors.
Development and initial validation of the Teaching Multiple School Subjects Role Conflict Scale (TMSS-RCS)
Authors: Iannucci Cassandra , MacPhail Ann , R. Richards K. Andrew
Published: August 2018

There is a need to better understand the reality of enacting dual teaching positions, or roles, within a school. Therefore, role conflict experienced by teachers who are tasked with concurrently teaching multiple subjects warrants further understanding. For example, teachers responsible for teaching physical education (PE) and another school subject(s). There is, however, currently no published instrument for measuring role conflict of this nature. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the Teaching Multiple School Subjects Role Conflict Scale, an instrument to measure interrole conflict between the roles of teaching PE and another school subject(s). Research aims included: (a) developing the instrument; (b) identifying a factor structure for the instrument using exploratory factor analysis; (c) confirming the factor structure through confirmatory factor analysis; and (d) examining the correlation between the newly validated measure and conceptually similar (i.e. role stress) and dissimilar (i.e. resilience) constructs. Exploratory factor analysis identified a stable three-factor, nine-item solution, including schedule conflict, energy expenditure conflict, and status conflict. Confirmatory factor analysis supported this solution, χ2(24) = 47.16, p < 0.001, non-normed fit index = 0.950, comparative fit index = 0.967, standardized root mean square residual = 0.069, and root mean square error of approximation = 0.069. The newly validated scale correlated appropriately with conceptually similar and dissimilar constructs.
Monocultural and multicultural gastronationalism: National narratives in European food shows
Authors: Leer Jonatan
Published: August 2018

This article argues that we are witnessing a wave of gastronationalism in European food television. In televised rediscoveries of national cuisines, narratives of the national identity are unfolded, and in these narratives various boundaries are defined and various subjects are included, excluded and ranked in the national narrative. Based on the analysis of Le Chef en France (2011–2012) with the leading celebrity chef in France Cyril Lignac and Jamie’s Great Britain (2012) with Jamie Oliver, the article proposes to distinguish between a monocultural gastronationalism and a multicultural gastronationalism. Finally, the article also suggests that the wave of TV shows with a gastronationalist discourse could be seen as a form of normalization of gastronationalism.
Understanding young children’s attitudes towards reading in relation to their digital literacy activities at home
Authors: Ozturk Gulsah , Ohi Sarah
Published: August 2018

The effect of digital literacy practices upon young children’s learning is a contentious and growing area for research and debate. Nowadays, children encounter many different types of texts through their everyday engagement with digital technologies. The study reported here investigated the relationships between 6 and 7-year-old children’s home digital literacy practices, parental views about the use of technology and children’s attitudes towards reading as perceived by the children and their parents. A total of 105 children and their parents, from two primary schools in Istanbul participated in this study. Parents completed a questionnaire about their views on the use of technology, their children’s digital literacy experiences and their perceptions of their children’s reading attitudes, while the children engaged in individual interviews. The results from this study indicate that children’s attitudes towards reading are significantly related to both the frequency of their engagement in digital literacy activities in their homes and their parents’ perception of their child’s attitudes to reading. The findings suggest that parents can support children’s enjoyment in reading by engaging in both digital and non-digital print experiences with their children.
Transport and surface charge density of univalent ion of polyvinyl chloride-based barium tungstate ion-exchange composite membrane for industrial separation of waste water
Authors: Khan Mohammad MA , Khan Anish , Asiri Abdullah M , Gupta VK ,   Sirajuddin
Published: August 2018

In the present study, a polyvinyl chloride-based barium tungstate ion-exchange membrane was synthesized by sol–gel method. The structure of membrane was studied in terms of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms crystalline form of the composite membrane without any other impurity. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis show the uniform arrangement of particles in the membrane with crack-free surface structure and presence of different functional groups of the organic-inorganic materials. The electrochemical properties like surface charge density ( D), transport number and mobility ratio of the ion-exchange composite membrane were theoretically evaluated and compared with observed values using “Teorell, Meyers and Sievers” method. Transport number follows the order as KCl <NaCl < LiCl < NH4Cl, while the surface charge density showed reversed order. The results showed that the low concentration of electrolytes favors the high mobility of univalent cation in the present study. The above result proves the analytical utility of polyvinyl chloride-based barium tungstate ion-exchange membrane in environmental management.
An experimental study on the effect of nano-clay addition on mechanical and water absorption behaviour of jute fibre reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Ramakrishnan S , Krishnamurthy K , Rajasekar R , Rajeshkumar G
Published: August 2018

This study deals with the investigation of the mechanical and water absorption properties of jute fibre reinforced epoxy composites prepared by using hand layup method. The effects of fibre length (10, 20, 30 and 40 mm), fibre weight fraction (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%), concentration of NaOH treatment (5% and 10%) and nano-clay addition (1, 3, 5 and 7 wt%) on the aforementioned properties were determined. Morphological characterisation was performed for the tensile and flexural fractured surface of the specimens to study their microstructural failures. The results revealed that the composites reinforced with 5% of NaOH-treated fibre and 5 wt% of nano-clay exhibited higher tensile, flexural and impact strengths of 103.05 MPa, 162.8 MPa and 0.358 kJ/mm2 respectively, and lower water absorption rate. Moreover, the optimum fibre length and fibre weight fraction were found to be 30 mm and 20% respectively for better overall properties. These composites can be used for light and medium load applications.
Ishi and the Wood Ducks, Part 2, or Ishi, the “Urban” Indian1
Authors: Denzin Norman K.
Published: August 2018

“Ishi and the Wood Ducks, Part 2, or Ishi, The ‘Urban’” Indian” is the first play in a five-play cycle, which dramatizes the events surrounding the life and death of a tribal man named Ishi who was immortalized in Theodora Kroeber’s (1961/1989) best-selling Ishi in Two Worlds: A Biography of the Last Wild Indian in North America.
Photodynamic Therapy Mediated by Aloe-Emodin Inhibited Angiogenesis and Cell Metastasis Through Activating MAPK Signaling Pathway on HUVECs
Authors: Chen Qing , Li Kai-Ting , Tian Si , Yu Ting-He , Yu Le-Hu , Lin Hai-Dan , Bai Ding-Qun
Published: August 2018

Photodynamic therapy is a clinically used, minimally invasive therapeutic procedure that involves the application of photosensitizers which can locate in target cells and so be irradiated at a corresponding wavelength. Laser light irradiation activation of photosensitizers generates free reactive oxygen species, which induces selective cytotoxic activity in target cells. Within recent years, aloe-emodin as a photosensitizer has been successfully applied in photodynamic therapy applications. Angiogenesis plays an important role in tumor growth and metastasis; thus, the development of a novel target treatment for angiogenesis is essential in order to improve treatment therapeutics for cancer treatment. An essential step in angiogenesis involves the formation of tube-like structures during matrix degradation, rearrangement, and apoptosis of endothelial cells. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of photocytotoxicity induced by aloe-emodin in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Analysis of cell proliferation results noted a significant decrease in cultured cells which received various concentrations of aloe-emodin and photodynamic therapy–induced light doses. Additionally, mitochondrial mechanisms of apoptotic cell death were observed in aloe-emodin photodynamic therapy–treated cells, as tube formation assays noted angiogenesis suppression after treatment. The capacity of migration and invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells was measured using the transwell assay and demonstrated that aloe-emodin photodynamic therapy significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The expression of p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, the c-Jun N-terminal kinases, and vascular endothelial growth factor suggested that the cellular metastasis was related to mitogen-activated protein kinase signal pathway. Furthermore, disorganization of F action cytoskeleton components was observed after aloe-emodin photodynamic therapy. Overall, the findings from this study suggest that aloe-emodin photodynamic therapy inhibited angiogenesis and cellular metastasis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase apoptotic signaling cell death pathway.
Trends in Hospital Morbidity From Alzheimer’s Disease in the European Union, 2000 to 2014
Authors: Niu Hao , Alvarez-Alvarez Ismael , Aguinaga-Ontoso Ines , Guillen-Grima Francisco
Published: August 2018

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has become a concerning public health issue. We aimed to analyze the trends of hospital morbidity from AD in the European Union (EU) in the period 2000 to 2014.

Methods:

Data from hospital discharges of men and women over 50 years old hospitalized due to AD in the EU were extracted from Eurostat database. We tested for secular trends computing anual percent change, and identified significant changes in the linear slope of the trend.

Results:

Hospital morbidity from AD showed a 0.8% (95% confidence intervals −2.2 to 0.6) slight declining trend in the EU. In men and women, we recorded a −0.5% and −1.0% decrease in hospital morbidity rates, respectively. Several countries showed changing trends during the study period.

Conclusion:

Alzheimer’s disease hospital morbidity has slightly declined in the entire EU in the past years. Eastern European countries showed steadily increasing trends, whereas in western and Mediterranean countries the rates decreased or leveled off.
Nurturing the Seeds of Change: Strengthening the Lifestyle Medicine Movement With the Donald A. Pegg Student Leadership Award
Authors: Jaini Paresh A. , Stiegmann Regan A. , Barrera Albert , Greenwell Alyssa , Baska Alicja , Lee Jenny Sunghyun , Estores Irene , Drozek David , Śliż Daniel , Bég Sami , Frates Elizabeth Pegg
Published: August 2018

Student-led Lifestyle Medicine Interest Groups (LMIGs) empower the next generation of healthcare professionals to tackle the pandemic of lifestyle-related chronic diseases and provide important pathways to increasing the visibility of Lifestyle Medicine (LM) in health professions schools. Each year, the Donald A. Pegg Student Leadership Award offers four allied health students a seed grant to start or support LMIGs at their schools as well as financial assistance to attend the annual American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) conference. The 2017 student winners were Paresh Jaini, Albert Barrera, Alyssa Greenwell, and Alicja Baska. With the support of the Pegg Award, the awardees and their faculty advisors have made great strides in LM at their institutions in the areas of research, community outreach, student education, and global networking. Their LMIG activities have included students presenting research at national conferences, initiating a chapter of the national organization Walk with a Doc, hosting educational lectures on LM principles, sponsoring plant-based cooking sessions, facilitating stress management workshops, and hosting a national-level LM congress in Europe. Through the ACLM, the Pegg Award generates an atmosphere of growth for LMIGs, fostering the expansion, vision, and integration of LM into the education of health professions students worldwide.
Image fusion algorithm based on improved K-singular value decomposition and Hadamard measurement matrix
Authors: Yang Qiang , Wang Huajun
Published: August 2018

To solve the problem of high time and space complexity of traditional image fusion algorithms, this paper elaborates the framework of image fusion algorithm based on compressive sensing theory. A new image fusion algorithm based on improved K-singular value decomposition and Hadamard measurement matrix is proposed. This proposed algorithm only acts on a small amount of measurement data after compressive sensing sampling, which greatly reduces the number of pixels involved in the fusion and improves the time and space complexity of fusion. In the fusion experiments of full-color image with multispectral image, infrared image with visible light image, as well as multispectral image with full-color image, this proposed algorithm achieved good experimental results in the evaluation parameters of information entropy, standard deviation, average gradient, and mutual information.
Radio, conflict and land grabbing in Sierra Leone: Communicating rights and preventing violence through drama
Authors: Baú Valentina
Published: August 2018

With a focus on entertainment education, this article sheds light on the effects of radio drama in addressing conflict over land governance. The discussion is built around the broadcast of Bush Wahala radio series during the recent land acquisition process that has taken place in Sierra Leone. Through the analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted by the author with rural farmers affected by this issue, on the one hand, this work generates reflections on the role of radio drama in providing listeners with alternative options to the use of violence and confrontation with the authorities in order to claim land rights; on the other hand, it represents an important contribution to the literature of edutainment in contexts of conflict, with a specific focus on the increasingly complex issue of land grabbing in the developing world.
Quantitative analysis of in-vivo thumb carpometacarpal joint kinematics using four-dimensional computed tomography
Authors: Wang Kemble K. , Zhang Xin , McCombe David , Ackland David C. , Ek Eugene T. , Tham Stephen K
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study was to define the normal thumb carpometacarpal joint kinematics in-vivo during opposition and abduction using four-dimensional computed-tomography in four volunteers. Movement of the metacarpal relative to the trapezium was quantified using both Euler and helical axis representations. Articular surface contact patterns were also analysed. The overall axis of rotation for the movement of opposition and abduction passes through the trapezium and the base of the proximal phalanx, respectively. An abrupt change in instantaneous axis of rotation at terminal opposition was found. Ligament modelling shows dorsoradial ligament becomes tauter towards terminal opposition, whereas anterior oblique ligament becomes more slack. These results support the existence of the ‘screw-home’ pivot at terminal opposition and the importance of the dorsoradial ligament for stability in this position. The normal reference set in this study can help establish a diagnostic tool for subtle carpometacarpal instability, or for evaluating efficacy of surgery.
Understanding Emotion in Adolescents: A Review of Emotional Frequency, Intensity, Instability, and Clarity
Authors: Bailen Natasha H. , Green Lauren M. , Thompson Renee J.
Published: August 2018

Adolescence is a time of transition from childhood to adulthood during which significant changes occur across multiple domains, including emotional experience. This article reviews the relevant literature on adolescents’ experience of four specific dimensions of emotion: emotional frequency, intensity, instability, and clarity. In an effort to examine how emotional experiences change as individuals approach adulthood, we examine these dimensions across ages 10 to 19, and review how the emotional functioning of adolescents compares to that of adults. In addition, we explore whether and how gender and puberty explain age differences in emotional experience. Finally, we discuss how these findings could inform future research on both the typical trajectory of emotional experience and the development of psychopathology in adolescence.
Journey of the glenoid in anatomic total shoulder replacement
Authors: Castagna Alessandro , Garofalo Raffaele
Published: August 2018

Anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSR) has been shown to generate good to excellent results for patients with osteoarthritis and a functioning rotator cuff. Many studies have reported that the glenoid component loosening and failure remain the most common long-term complication of total shoulder arthroplasty. The approach to glenoid component is critical because a surgeon should consider patient-specific anatomy, preserving bone stock and joint line restoration, for a good and durable shoulder function. Over the years, different glenoid design and materials have been tried in various configurations. These include cemented polyethylene, uncemented metal-backed and hybrid implants. Although advances in biomechanics, design and tribology have improved our understanding of the glenoid, the journey of the glenoid component in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty has not yet reached its final destination. This article attempts to describe the evolution of the glenoid component in anatomic TSR and current practice.
Blockchain technology for providing an architecture model of decentralized personal health information
Authors: Rahmadika Sandi , Rhee Kyung-Hyune
Published: August 2018

The personal health information (PHI) is an activity among the health-care providers and the patients in terms of managing the data which is sensitive to the parties. The PHI data have been maintained by multiple health-care providers, thus resulting in separated data. Moreover, the PHI data are stored in the provider’s database, hence the patients have no authority to manage their own information. Therefore, in this article, we propose a conceptual model for managing the PHI data which is derived from several health-care providers by relying on the blockchain technology in the peer-to-peer overlay network. In addition, we elaborate the security analysis that might be occurring in the proposed model. By leveraging on our model, it allows the patients and the providers to collect effectively the PHI data onto a single view as well guarantee of data integrity. The blockchain offers an immutable of the data record without having to trust a third party. The experimental results show that the proposed approach is promising to be developed due to the high success rate in terms of data dissemination.
Start Spreading the News: A Comparative Experiment on the Effects of Populist Communication on Political Engagement in Sixteen European Countries
Authors: Hameleers Michael , Bos Linda , Fawzi Nayla , Reinemann Carsten , Andreadis Ioannis , Corbu Nicoleta , Schemer Christian , Schulz Anne , Shaefer Tamir , Aalberg Toril , Axelsson Sofia , Berganza Rosa , Cremonesi Cristina , Dahlberg Stefan , de Vreese Claes H. , Hess Agnieszka , Kartsounidou Evangelia , Kasprowicz Dominika , Matthes Joerg , Negrea-Busuioc Elena , Ringdal Signe , Salgado Susana , Sanders Karen , Schmuck Desirée , Stromback Jesper , Suiter Jane , Boomgaarden Hajo , Tenenboim-Weinblatt Keren , Weiss-Yaniv Naama
Published: August 2018

Although populist communication has become pervasive throughout Europe, many important questions on its political consequences remain unanswered. First, previous research has neglected the differential effects of populist communication on the Left and Right. Second, internationally comparative studies are missing. Finally, previous research mostly studied attitudinal outcomes, neglecting behavioral effects. To address these key issues, this paper draws on a unique, extensive, and comparative experiment in sixteen European countries ( N = 15,412) to test the effects of populist communication on political engagement. The findings show that anti-elitist populism has the strongest mobilizing effects, and anti-immigrant messages have the strongest demobilizing effects. Moreover, national conditions such as the level of unemployment and the electoral success of the populist Left and Right condition the impact of populist communication. These findings provide important insights into the persuasiveness of populist messages spread throughout the European continent.
Populism and the Gender Gap: Comparing Digital Engagement with Populist and Non-populist Facebook Pages in France, Italy, and Spain
Authors: Bobba Giuliano , Cremonesi Cristina , Mancosu Moreno , Seddone Antonella
Published: August 2018

This paper clarifies whether and to what extent populist communication could drive different gender-oriented reactions. We adopted an original research design intending Facebook as a natural environment where investigating the interaction between social media users and populist and non-populist parties. Our case selection considers three countries falling into the pluralist polarized media system: France, Italy, and Spain. A human content analysis was carried out on a sample of 2,235 Facebook posts published during thirty days in 2016 by the four main parties/leaders in each country. An original algorithm allowed to identify the gender of users liking each message. We tested whether men tend more to provide likes to messages posted by populist parties, messages published by radical populists, messages containing populist contents, and different components of populist messages. Findings confirm the existence of a gender-oriented reaction to populism: Men tend to support populist actors and parties on Facebook more than women do, by providing likes to their content. Yet the difference in gender gap between radical and moderate parties is not significant. We also found that the antielite component of populist discourse obtains more likes by male Facebook users. This pattern is common for both populist and non-populist parties.
IgG4 disease of the ear: Report and review
Authors: Wuesthoff Carolina , Allende Alexandra , Patel Nirmal
Published: August 2018

In recent years, an immune-mediated disorder involving IgG4 has been described, which targets multiple organs and explains a number of disorders previously regarded as “idiopathic” or of unknown origin. Furthermore, the discovery of IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) has placed a number of pathologies within its spectrum, linking symptoms and conditions formerly considered isolated. Reports of the manifestations of IgG4-RD in the head and neck are scarce. Otological manifestations have been reported, but only a handful of cases are available in the literature. This is the first report of recalcitrant serous otitis media secondary to IgG4-RD, confirmed by immunohistopathology. A case of IgG4-RD of the middle ear is presented, manifesting itself as recalcitrant serous otitis media. The case is presented from an otolaryngological and histopathological perspective and briefly reviews this rare disorder. The importance of the awareness of IgG4-RD resides mainly in the fact that it is a treatable condition. This can potentially improve the quality of life of a number of patients, some of whom may not have had a clear diagnosis. A favorable response to glucocorticoids has been reported. In cases of persistent symptoms, immunosuppressive therapy has been used with success.
Atezolizumab-related encephalitis in the intensive care unit: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Laserna Andrés , Tummala Sudhakar , Patel Neel , El Hamouda Diaa Eldin Mohamed , Gutiérrez Cristina
Published: August 2018

Atezolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets programmed death ligand-1. Treatments with this drug may cause immune-related adverse events by creating an exaggerated inflammatory response. The most common side effects are fatigue, rash, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Cases of central nervous system toxicity such as encephalitis and encephalopathy are uncommon. We present the case of a 53-year-old female with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix who presented to the emergency room 13 days after receiving atezolizumab with altered mental status, headache, and meningeal signs. She was admitted to the intensive care unit. Infectious, anatomical, and neoplastic etiologies were ruled out. Auto-immune meningoencephalitis was diagnosed and treated with high-dose steroids. Within 10 days of the diagnosis, she had clinical, radiological, and laboratory improvement. Given the increasing use of novel immunotherapies and life-threatening side effects associated with them, healthcare providers in the intensive care unit should be aware of their diagnosis and management.
Effect of Rosuvastatin on Acute Kidney Injury in Sepsis-Associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Hsu Raymond K. , Truwit Jonathon D. , Matthay Michael A. , Levitt Joseph E. , Thompson Boyd Taylor , Liu Kathleen D.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) commonly occurs in patients with sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Objective:

To investigate whether statin treatment is protective against AKI in sepsis-associated ARDS.

Design:

Secondary analysis of data from Statins for Acutely Injured Lungs in Sepsis (SAILS), a randomized controlled trial that tested the impact of rosuvastatin therapy on mortality in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS.

Setting:

44 hospitals in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute ARDS Clinical Trials Network.

Patients:

644 of 745 participants in SAILS who had available baseline serum creatinine data and who were not on chronic dialysis.

Measurements:

Our primary outcome was AKI defined using the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes creatinine criteria. Randomization to rosuvastatin vs placebo was the primary predictor. Additional covariates include demographics, ARDS etiology, and severity of illness.

Methods:

We used multivariable logistic regression to analyze AKI outcomes in 511 individuals without AKI at randomization, and 93 with stage 1 AKI at randomization.

Results:

Among individuals without AKI at randomization, rosuvastatin treatment did not change the risk of AKI (adjusted odds ratio: 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-1.44). Among those with preexisting stage 1 AKI, rosuvastatin treatment was associated with an increased risk of worsening AKI (adjusted odds ratio: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.14-8.22). When serum creatinine was adjusted for cumulative fluid balance among those with preexisting stage 1 AKI, rosuvastatin was no longer associated worsening AKI (adjusted odds ratio: 1.85, 95% CI: 0.70-4.84).

Limitations:

Sample size, lack of urine output data, and prehospitalization baseline creatinine.

Conclusion:

Treatment with rosuvastatin in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS did not protect against de novo AKI or worsening of preexisting AKI.
Determinants of the Nasal Microbiome: Pilot Study of Effects of Intranasal Medication Use
Authors: Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Holt Justin , Nelson Leah F. , Ir Diana , Robertson Charles E. , Frank Daniel N.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

A role for bacteria and other microbes has long been suspected in the chronic inflammatory sinonasal diseases. Recent studies utilizing culture-independent, sequence-based identification have demonstrated aberrant shifts in the sinus microbiota of chronic rhinosinusitis subjects, compared with ostensibly healthy controls. Examining how such microbiota shifts occur and the potential for physician-prescribed interventions to influence microbiota dynamics are the topics of the current article.

Methods

The nasal cavity microbiota of 5 subjects was serially examined over an 8-week period using pan-bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Four of the subjects were administered topical mometasone furoate spray, while 1 subject underwent a mupirocin decolonization procedure in anticipation of orthopedic surgery.

Results

Measures of microbial diversity were unaffected by intranasal treatment in 2 patients and were markedly increased in the remaining 3. The increase in microbial diversity was related to clearance of Moraxella spp. and a simultaneous increase in members of the phylum Actinobacteria. Both effects persisted at least 2 weeks beyond cessation of treatment. Transient changes in the relative abundance of several bacterial genera, including Staphylococcus and Priopionibacteria, were also observed during treatment.

Conclusions

The effects of intranasal steroids on the sinonasal microbiome are poorly understood, despite their widespread use in treating chronic sinonasal inflammatory disorders. In this longitudinal study, administration of intranasal mometasone furoate or mupirocin resulted in shifts in microbial diversity that persisted to some degree following treatment cessation. Further characterization of these effects as well as elucidation of the mechanism(s) underlying these changes is needed.
Inmate Mental Health and the Pains of Imprisonment
Authors: Edgemon Timothy G. , Clay-Warner Jody
Published: August 2018

We use national data on 5,552 inmates and the 214 state prisons in which they reside to examine how prison conditions are associated with mental health symptoms net of individual-level factors. Structural equation models indicate that prison overcrowding and punitiveness are positively related to both depression and hostility, while the availability of work assignments is negatively related to both mental health indicators. The proportion of inmates whose home is more than 50 miles from the prison was positively associated with depression. Inmates reported higher levels of hostility when the prison did not allow television and there was a recent prison suicide. These results suggest the importance of examining a wide range of prison deprivations in research on inmate well-being to lay the groundwork for understanding the mechanisms through which prison deprivations are linked to mental health.
Involuntary Autobiographical Memory and Future Thought Predicting Hallucination Proneness
Authors: Allé Mélissa C. , Berna Fabrice , Berntsen Dorthe
Published: August 2018

Involuntary (spontaneously arising) autobiographical memories and involuntary future thoughts are common in daily life, but their frequency and emotional intensity vary among individuals. Theories of hallucination in schizophrenia have hypothesized a key role for involuntary memories; however, this idea has been little examined. We report two studies, designed to address the role of involuntary mental events in relation to hallucination proneness. Both studies showed that the self-reported frequency of involuntary memories and future projections was a robust predictor of hallucination proneness, even when controlling for measures of unwanted thoughts and rumination (Study 1) and measures of depression, dissociation, executive functions, imagery abilities, and personality (Study 2). In Study 1, the emotional intensity of involuntary memories and future projections also predicted hallucination proneness. The findings open a new avenue of research addressing the role of involuntary autobiographical memories and future projections in relation to hallucination and psychosis.
The INCLUDE study
Authors: Hider Samantha L , Bucknall Milica , Cooke Kelly , Cooke Kendra , Finney Andrew G , Goddin Dave , Healey Emma L , Hennings Susie , Herron Daniel , Jinks Clare , Lewis Martyn , Machin Annabelle , Mallen Christian , Wathall Simon , Chew-Graham Carolyn A
Published: August 2018

Background:

Patients with inflammatory rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica and ankylosing spondylitis are at increased risk of common comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and anxiety and depression which lead to increased morbidity and mortality. These associated morbidities are often un-recognized and under-treated. While patients with other long-term conditions such as diabetes are invited for routine reviews in primary care, which may include identification and management of co-morbidities, at present this does not occur for patients with inflammatory conditions, and thus, opportunities to diagnose and optimally manage these comorbidities are missed.

Objective:

To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a nurse-led integrated care review (the INtegrating and improving Care for patients with infLammatory rheUmatological DisordErs in the community (INCLUDE) review) for people with inflammatory rheumatological conditions in primary care.

Design:

A pilot cluster randomized controlled trial will be undertaken to test the feasibility and acceptability of a nurse-led integrated primary care review for identification, assessment and initial management of common comorbidities including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and anxiety and depression. A process evaluation will be undertaken using a mixed methods approach including participant self-reported questionnaires, a medical record review, an INCLUDE EMIS template, intervention fidelity checking using audio-recordings of the INCLUDE review consultation and qualitative interviews with patient participants, study nurses and study general practitioners (GPs)

Discussion:

Success of the pilot study will be measured against the engagement, recruitment and study retention rates of both general practices and participants. Acceptability of the INCLUDE review to patients and practitioners and treatment fidelity will be explored using a parallel process evaluation.

Trial Registration:

ISRCTN12765345.
Return to Level I Sports After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Evaluation of Age, Sex, and Readiness to Return Criteria
Authors: Webster Kate E. , Feller Julian A.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Return to sport (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a topic of current interest. The high reinjury rates reported in younger athletes may be due in part to an early RTS.

Purpose:

To determine the proportion of athletes who return to level I (jumping, hard pivoting, and cutting) sport at less than 1 year after ACL reconstruction and compare return rates by age and sex. A secondary purpose was to examine whether RTS is associated with some commonly used outcome criteria.

Methods:

A cohort of 1440 athletes (992 males, 448 females) satisfied criteria for inclusion in this study (primary ACL reconstruction, normal contralateral knee, no additional surgery within the first year after the reconstruction, and participation in level I sport on a weekly basis prior to injury). The proportion of athletes in this sample who had resumed level I sport by 12 months after surgery was recorded, along with measurements of knee function (single-legged hop symmetry), laxity (KT-1000 arthrometer), and self-reported outcomes (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] subjective score). Limb symmetry index scores of 90 or higher, side-to-side difference in anterior knee laxity of 2 mm or less, and IKDC scores of 95 or higher were considered indicators of satisfactory recovery from surgery.

Results:

Rates of return to level I sport were significantly higher for athletes aged 25 years and younger (48% return rate) compared with older athletes (26-35 years, 32% return rate [ P < .0001]; ≥36 years, 19% return rate [ P < .001]). Male athletes who were in the ≤25-year and 26- to 35-year age brackets had significantly higher return rates than female athletes (52% vs 39% and 37% vs 18%, respectively), whereas no sex-based differences in RTS were seen after 36 years of age. A significantly higher proportion of younger patients met the selected indicators of a satisfactory recovery. Regardless of age, athletes had twice the odds of RTS if they had limb symmetry index scores of 90 or higher ( P ≤ .0001) and 3 times the odds of RTS if they had IKDC scores of 95 or higher ( P < .0001).

Conclusion:

Almost half of younger athletes (aged ≤25 years) in the current cohort returned to level I sports within 12 months after ACL reconstruction. Younger athletes were also more likely to meet criteria that indicate a satisfactory functional recovery and that have been used to indicate readiness to RTS. There may be a role for adjusting thresholds for these criteria based on age.
God’s Country in Black and Blue: How Christian Nationalism Shapes Americans’ Views about Police (Mis)treatment of Blacks
Authors: Perry Samuel L. , Whitehead Andrew L. , Davis Joshua T.
Published: August 2018

Research shows that Americans who hold strongly to a myth about America’s Christian heritage—what is called “Christian nationalism”—tend to draw rigid boundaries around ethnic and national group membership. Incorporating theories connecting ethnic boundaries, prejudice, and perceived threat with a tendency to justify harsher penalties, bias, or excessive force against racial minorities, the authors examine how Christian nationalist ideology shapes Americans’ views about police treatment of black Americans. Analyses of 2017 data from a national probability sample show that adherence to Christian nationalism predicts that Americans will be more likely to believe that police treat blacks the same as whites and that police shoot blacks more often because blacks are more violent than whites. These effects are robust even when including controls for respondents’ religious and political characteristics, indicating that Christian nationalism influences Americans’ attitudes over and above the independent influences of political conservatism or religious parochialism. In fact, the authors find that religiosity influences policing attitudes in the opposite direction. Moreover, observed patterns do not differ by race, suggesting that Christian nationalism provides a cultural framework that can bolster antiblack prejudice among people of color as well as whites. The authors argue that Christian nationalism solidifies ethnic boundaries around national identity such that Americans are less willing to acknowledge police discrimination and more likely to victim-blame, even appealing to more overtly racist notions of blacks’ purportedly violent tendencies to justify police shootings. The authors outline the implications of these findings for understanding the current racial-political climate leading up to and during the Trump presidency.
Literacy Research, Racial Consciousness, and Equitable Flows of Knowledge
Authors: Rogers Rebecca
Published: August 2018

My presidential address focuses on three themes. First, I introduce and trouble the idea of literacy research as white property, drawing on my own research and the history of the Literacy Research Association (LRA) as an organization. Second, I argue that even critically oriented scholarship runs the risk of reproducing power relations it sets out to critique without a reflexive look at segregated flows of knowledge. Third, I present a short video project and organizational storybank that highlights how LRA members are using their research to build equitable flows of knowledge. I argue that LRA has contributed a great deal to educational equity and still has farther to go.
Seeing like a border city: Refugee politics at the borders of city and nation-state
Authors: Young Julie EE
Published: August 2018

Local advocacy practices in Detroit–Windsor in response to the refugee “crisis” that unfolded around the Canada–US border in early 1987 revealed a different way of working with the border in the city. They were “seeing like a border city”: working as though Detroit–Windsor were one place, even as they made use of the ways in which it remained two distinct places with different political and legal contexts. Advocates mobilized resources and expertise on both sides of the border, drawing on the sense of community offered by the city, and made use of the distinct policy frameworks, securing legal status for refugees who had been consigned to legal limbo through the policies of both states. This approach troubled the state’s logic of border control even as it refortified the boundaries of exclusion underlying it. Their work highlights the possibilities and limitations of advocacy work around an international boundary line.
The dyspnoea–inactivity vicious circle in COPD: development and external validation of a conceptual model
Authors: Ramon Maria A. , Ter Riet Gerben , Carsin Anne-Elie , Gimeno-Santos Elena , Agustí Alvar , Antó Josep M. , Donaire-Gonzalez David , Ferrer Jaume , Rodríguez Esther , Rodriguez-Roisin Robert , Puhan Milo A. , Garcia-Aymerich Judith
Published: August 2018

The vicious circle of dyspnoea–inactivity has been proposed, but never validated empirically, to explain the clinical course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We aimed to develop and validate externally a comprehensive vicious circle model.

We utilised two methods. 1) Identification and validation of all published vicious circle models by a systematic literature search and fitting structural equation models to longitudinal data from the Spanish PAC-COPD (Phenotype and Course of COPD) cohort (n=210, mean age 68 years, mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) 54% predicted), testing both the hypothesised relationships between variables in the model (“paths”) and model fit. 2) Development of a new model and external validation using longitudinal data from the Swiss and Dutch ICE COLD ERIC (International Collaborative Effort on Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease: Exacerbation Risk Index Cohorts) cohort (n=226, mean age 66 years, mean FEV157% predicted).

We identified nine vicious circle models for which structural equation models confirmed most hypothesised paths but showed inappropriate fit. In the new model, airflow limitation, hyperinflation, dyspnoea, physical activity, exercise capacity and COPD exacerbations remained related to other variables and model fit was appropriate. Fitting it to ICE COLD ERIC, all paths were replicated and model fit was appropriate.

Previously published vicious circle models do not fully explain the vicious circle concept. We developed and externally validated a new comprehensive model that gives a more relevant role to exercise capacity and COPD exacerbations.