bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why are East African Players Absent in European Football? Localizing African Football Migration Along Structural Constraints, Colonial Legacies and Voluntary Immobility
Authors: Ungruhe Christian , Schmidt Mads Backer
Published: May 2020

While studies on transnational African football migration have increasingly attracted scholarly attention, little is known about the continent’s regional particularities. However, in contrast to the massive influx of footballers from West and North Africa, squads of European professional clubs seldom include players from East Africa. Yet, the concentration on West Africa in academic studies runs the risk of overgeneralizing certain practices on the African continent and, hence, of reproducing Africa’s standing as the homogeneous peripheral other. By analyzing the various historical, structural, and socio-cultural reasons for the general absence of migrant footballers from East Africa, we aim at contributing to a more nuanced picture of African football migration and further discuss the ambivalent consequences of players’ spatial immobility for East Africa’s football development.
Surgical Team Exposure to Cautery Smoke and Its Mitigation during Tonsillectomy
Authors: O’Brien Daniel C. , Lee Eun Gyung , Soo Jhy‐Charm , Friend Sherri , Callaham Sarah , Carr Michele M.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To assess the exposure of surgical personnel to known carcinogens during pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) and compare the efficacy of surgical smoke evacuation systems during T&A.

Study Design

Prospective, case series.

Setting

Tertiary children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

The present study assessed operating room workers’ exposure to chemical compounds and aerosolized particulates generated during T&A. We also investigated the effect of 3 different smoke‐controlling methods: smoke‐evacuator pencil cautery (SE), cautery with suction held by an assistant (SA), and cautery without suction (NS).

Results

Thirty cases were included: 12 in the SE group, 9 in SA, and 9 in NS. The chemical exposure levels were lower than or similar to baseline background concentrations, with the exception of methylene chloride and acetaldehyde. Within the surgical plume, none of the chemical compounds exceeded the corresponding occupational exposure limit (OEL). The mean particulate number concentration in the breathing zone during tonsillectomy was 508 particles/cm3 for SE compared to 1661 particles/cm3 for SA and 8208 particles/cm3 for NS cases. NS was significantly different compared to the other two methods (P =. 0009).

Conclusions

Although the exposure levels to chemicals were considerably lower than the OELs, continuous exposures to these chemicals could cause adverse health effects to surgical personnel. These findings suggest that the use of a smoke‐evacuator pencil cautery or an attentive assistant with handheld suction would reduce exposure levels to the aerosolized particles during routine T&A, compared to the use of cautery without suction.
Implementation of Preoperative Screening Protocols in Otolaryngology During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Urban Matthew J. , Patel Tirth R. , Raad Richard , LoSavio Phillip , Stenson Kerstin , Al‐Khudari Samer , Nielsen Thomas , Husain Inna , Smith Ryan , Revenaugh Peter C. , Wiet R. Mark , Papagiannopoulos Peter , Batra Pete S. , Tajudeen Bobby A.
Published: May 2020

Objective

To highlight emerging preoperative screening protocols and document workflow challenges and successes during the early weeks of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a large urban tertiary care medical center. Thirty‐two patients undergoing operative procedures during the COVID‐19 pandemic were placed into 2 preoperative screening protocols. Early in the pandemic a “high‐risk case protocol” was utilized to maximize available resources. As information and technology evolved, a “universal point‐of‐care protocol” was implemented.

Results

Of 32 patients, 25 were screened prior to surgery. Three (12%) tested positive for COVID‐19. In all 3 cases, the procedure was delayed, and patients were admitted for treatment or discharged under home quarantine. During this period, 86% of operative procedures were indicated for treatment of oncologic disease. There was no significant delay in arrival to the operating room for patients undergoing point‐of‐care screening immediately prior to their procedure (P =. 92).

Discussion

Currently, few studies address preoperative screening for COVID‐19. A substantial proportion of individuals in this cohort tested positive, and both protocols identified positive cases. The major strengths of the point‐of‐care protocol are ease of administration, avoiding subsequent exposures after testing, and relieving strain on “COVID‐19 clinics” or other community testing facilities.

Implications for Practice

Preoperative screening is a critical aspect of safe surgical practice in the midst of the widespread pandemic. Rapid implementation of universal point‐of‐care screening is possible without major workflow adjustments or operative delays.
Virtual Dysphagia Evaluation: Practical Guidelines for Dysphagia Management in the Context of the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Soldatova Liuba , Williams Colleen , Postma Gregory N. , Falk Gary W. , Mirza Natasha
Published: May 2020

With encouraging signs of pandemic containment nationwide, the promise of return to a full range of clinical practice is on the horizon. Clinicians are starting to prepare for a transition from limited evaluation of emergent and urgent complaints to resumption of elective surgical procedures and routine office visits within the next few weeks to months. Otolaryngology as a specialty faces unique challenges when it comes to the COVID‐19 pandemic due to the fact that a comprehensive head and neck examination requires aerosol‐generating endoscopic procedures. Since the COVID‐19 pandemic is far from being over and the future may hold other highly communicable infectious threats that may require similar precautions, standard approaches to the clinical evaluation of common otolaryngology complaints will have to be modified. In this communication, we present practical recommendations for dysphagia evaluation with modifications to allow a safe and comprehensive assessment.
Inappropriate Nasopharyngeal Sampling for SARS‐CoV‐2 Detection Is a Relevant Cause of False‐Negative Reports
Authors: Piras Antonio , Rizzo Davide , Uzzau Sergio , De Riu Giacomo , Rubino Salvatore , Bussu Francesco
Published: May 2020

Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA on nasopharyngeal swab is the standard for diagnosing active COVID‐19 disease in asymptomatic cases and in symptomatic patients without the typical radiologic findings. For the present COVID‐19 outbreak in Italy, we describe 4 symptomatic patients with negative RT‐PCR results at the first nasopharyngeal swab, which became positive when collected a few hours later by an otolaryngologist. All the patients showed nasal obstruction. The present report suggests that inadequate nasopharyngeal sampling performed by untrained operators in the presence of nasal obstruction can be a relevant case of false‐negative findings at RT‐PCR, with a clear negative impact on the efforts to contain the current outbreak.
Safety and Prognosis in Percutaneous vs Surgical Tracheostomy in 27 Patients With COVID‐19
Authors: Riestra‐Ayora Juan , Yanes‐Diaz Joaquin , Penuelas Oscar , Molina‐Quiros Cristina , Sanz‐Fernández Ricardo , Martin‐Sanz Eduardo
Published: May 2020

During the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, patients in intensive care units who are undergoing long‐term intubation may require tracheostomy. There is controversy about indication and health care professionals’ safety regarding the conventional or percutaneous technique. We performed a prospective analysis of a series of 27 consecutive patients with COVID‐19 comparing both tracheostomy techniques, safety, and prognosis clinical markers. The results show that the techniques are equally safe, without cases of infection in surgeons. The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score before surgery and the progression in ventilation support during the first 72 hours after tracheostomy are optimal prognostic markers for these patients.
Nursing competencies across different levels of palliative care provision: A systematic integrative review with thematic synthesis
Authors: Hökkä Minna , Martins Pereira Sandra , Pölkki Tarja , Kyngäs Helvi , Hernández-Marrero Pablo
Published: May 2020

Background:

Palliative care exists in diverse healthcare settings. Nurses play a crucial role in its provision. Different levels of palliative care provision and education have been recognized in the literature. Therefore, nurses need a set of various competencies to provide high-quality palliative care.

Aims:

To systematically synthesize the empirical evidence of (1) nursing competencies needed in palliative care and (2) whether these competencies differ across the level of palliative care.

Design:

Systematic integrative review with thematic synthesis. Prospero: CRD42018114869.

Data sources:

CINAHL, PubMed, Academic Search Premier, Scopus and Medic databases. Studies on nursing competencies linked to palliative care reported in English, Swedish, Finnish, Spanish, Portuguese or German were considered. Search terms: ‘palliative care or hospice care or end-of-life care’, ‘competency or professional competence or skills’ and ‘nursing’. Articles were independently screened and reviewed by two researchers. Quality appraisal was conducted following Hawker’s criteria.

Results:

A total of 7454 articles were retrieved, 21 articles were included in the analysis. Six diverse nursing competencies dimensions, namely leadership, communication, collaboration, clinical, ethico-legal and psycho-social and spiritual were identified. The reports rarely defined the level of palliative care and covered a wide array of healthcare settings.

Conclusion:

Nurses need a wide range of competencies to provide quality palliative care. Few studies focused on which competencies are relevant to a specific level of palliative care. Further research is needed to systematize the nursing competencies and define which nursing competencies are central for different levels of palliative care to enhance palliative care development, education and practice.
Sales Student Preconceptions and a Novel Approach to Sales Curriculum Mapping: Insights, Implications, and Application for Sales Educators
Authors: Hammond Robert W.
Published: May 2020

It is widely known that students have preconceptions regarding salespeople and that these preconceptions are modified by participation in sales classes. It is also known that experiential sales class activities are more effective at increasing student interest in pursuing a sales career than traditional lecture style lessons. Less explored is the source of student preconceptions regarding sales and an associated model to explain the observed classroom pedagogy phenomena. Moreover, despite the focus on measuring student attitudes toward sales, there is limited research that presents practical methods for sales educators to introduce sales concepts to students. To address this knowledge gap, this article presents the findings from a quantitative analysis of student experiences regarding sales, a model for interpreting these experiences as it relates to sales career interest, and a novel process for developing the introductory and advanced sales classes at a large metropolitan university.
Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus and Goatpox Virus Co-Infection in Goats
Authors: Akanbi Olatunde Babatunde , Franzke Kati , Adedeji Adeyinka Jeremy , Ulrich Reiner , Teifke Jens Peter
Published: May 2020

Infection of small ruminants with peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) and goatpox virus (GTPV) are endemic and can have devastating economic consequences in Asia and Africa. Co-infection with these viruses have recently been reported in goats and sheep in Nigeria. In this study, we evaluated samples from the lips of a red Sokoto goat, and describe co-infection of keratinocytes with PPRV and GTPV using histopathology and transmission electron microscopy. Eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusion bodies were identified histologically, and ultrastructural analysis revealed numerous large cytoplasmic viral factories containing poxvirus particles and varying sizes of smaller cytoplasmic inclusions composed of PPRV nucleocapsids. These histopathological and ultrastructural findings show concurrent infection with the 2 viruses for the first time as well as the detection of PPRV particles in epithelial cells of the mucocutaneous junction of the lip.
The Layered Life of JE26204: the Construction and Reuse of the Coffins of Henuttawy
Authors: MacLeod Caroline Arbuckle , Cooney Kathlyn M.
Published: May 2020

In the Twenty-first Dynasty, ancient Egypt was facing a number of economic, political, and religious challenges and transformations. To compensate for a lack of imported resources and subsidized incomes, the Egyptian people were robbing and reusing the tombs of their predecessors. Royal coffins and mummies were collected by priests and placed in tomb caches, supposedly for their protection. In this article, the authors show how a detailed material analysis of the coffins in these caches can help reveal the social history of Egypt at this time. The coffins of Queen Henuttawy prove to be a combination of Eighteenth and Twenty-First Dynasty construction and decoration, and may provide insight into the actions of Third Intermediate Period priests. Following these pieces through to their modern excavation and display in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo, it is evident that these objects continue to impact lives, acquiring additional layers of history and social significance.
Quantitative geography III: Future challenges and challenging futures
Authors: Wolf Levi John , Fox Sean , Harris Rich , Johnston Ron , Jones Kelvyn , Manley David , Tranos Emmanouil , Wang Wenfei Winnie
Published: May 2020

In the previous two reports in this series, we discussed the history and current status of quantitative geography. In this final report, we focus on the future. We argue that quantitative geographers are most helpful when we can simplify difficult problems using our distinct domain expertise. To do this, we must clarify the theory underpinning core conceptual problems in quantitative geography. Then, we examine the social forces that are shaping the future of quantitative geography. We conclude with criteria for how quantitative geography might succeed in addressing these challenges.
Understanding Why Drivers Cross the Line at Activated Railway Crossings
Authors: Larue Grégoire S. , Naweed Anjum
Published: May 2020

Congestion at urban and active railway level crossings leads to non-compliant driver behavior, and scenarios in which road users may enter into the rail corridor with the crossing nearing full closure. Previous research indicates this scenario occurs with alarming regularity during peak periods. However, limited research has investigated whether such non-compliance arises from errors or from deliberate decisions. The objective of this study was to better understand driver decisions when approaching a level crossing during activation. Vehicle movements and crossing activation were continuously recorded for 2 months at a congested active level crossing close to Melbourne, Australia. Each movement corresponding to a vehicle approach to the level crossing during onset of activation was extracted with traversals counted, and the ability to stop safely modeled with linear motion equations, using the position and speed of the vehicle at activation. The probability of entering the level crossing was then modeled with generalized linear models. Analysis revealed that much of the non-compliance was involuntary and linked to a dilemma zone in the absence of sufficient warning time for drivers to react to and safely stop before proceeding through the crossing. However, deliberate non-compliance was also an issue, and independent of the time of day. Findings are discussed in relation to the ideal grace period for road users at such crossings, and consideration is given to enforcement as a viable treatment for reducing deliberate non-compliance.
Governance of Emerging Autonomous Driving Development in China
Authors: Xue Qiuju , Xu Meng , Mullen Caroline
Published: May 2020

The governance of autonomous driving (AD) technology is vital to enhance its benefits while avoiding the risks. In this paper, we attempt to focus on this issue and take the development of AD in China as an example for examining its governance. First, the positions and responsibilities of important stakeholders (the government and businesses) in the development of AD in the Chinese special administrative system environment are examined. Then, the regulatory relationship between them is discussed through investigating relevant policy documents, company websites, and media reports. The investigation shows that, thus far, the legislative process with regard to AD governance is lagging behind its development to some extent. In most instances, the government’s response is relatively conservative and focuses on creating normative documents to better regulate AD. There is, therefore, a comparative lack of commitment to confirming the legitimacy of AD. In contrast, companies are the pioneers of AD development. They actively explore the future of AD and relevant policy formulation via extensive alliances that share the risks and uncertainties of this innovation. To address the issue of governance, strategies ranging from supplying transportation infrastructure and investing in AD through government-led industrial funds to public–private partnerships have been adopted. However, it is not clear whether this enterprise-led direction of industrial development is consistent with the government’s management goals, although these industry lobbies are actively promoting effective policy-making.
Asphalt Mixture Quality Acceptance using the Hamburg Wheel-Tracking Test
Authors: Batioja-Alvarez Dario , Lee Jusang , Rahbar-Rastegar Reyhaneh , Haddock John E.
Published: May 2020

This paper investigates the applicability of the Hamburg wheel-tracking test (HWTT) for asphalt mixture quality acceptance using laboratory-compacted specimens and field-compacted specimens. Density distribution functions for rut depths, stripping inflection points, and rutting resistance index (RRI) values used in the HWTT were obtained for mixtures with different nominal maximum aggregate size (NMAS) values and binder performance grades. Clear distinctions among the rut depth distributions for the high-temperature performance grade mixtures were observed in the laboratory-compacted specimens. The RRI values for both the laboratory and field-compacted specimens increased with an increase in the binder performance grade. In addition, the RRI values showed clear differences for different binder grades among the mixtures with the same NMAS. The range of the RRI distributions for the laboratory-compacted specimens was narrower than that of the field-compacted specimens. The stripping inflection points of the field-compacted specimens increased as the binder grade was increased, indicating better moisture damage resistance for stiffer mixtures. HWTT results were significantly influenced by the air voids content of specimens. The relationship between air voids content and RRI can be used for understanding the critical effect of in-place density in pavement performance. The laboratory-compacted and field-compacted specimens offer advantages and disadvantages. The laboratory-compacted specimens were much easier to fabricate to standard dimensions, and the field-compacted specimens present inherent variability in relation to air voids content, diameter, and thickness.
Weigh-in-Motion-Based Fatigue Damage Assessment
Authors: Iatsko Olga , Babu Anjan Ramesh , Stallings J. Michael , Nowak Andrzej S.
Published: May 2020

Weigh-in-motion (WIM) data provide an excellent opportunity to study the effects of actual traffic loads on bridges. Here procedures are presented for using WIM data to quantify the fatigue damage accumulated in steel bridges. These procedures allow comparisons of the impacts of truck traffic on various routes beyond simple comparisons of the numbers and gross vehicles weights of trucks in the traffic streams. The fatigue damage accumulation procedures are demonstrated using WIM traffic data collected in the state of Alabama. The results of the analysis show that approximately 20% of trucks are overloaded, that is, permit loads and illegal loads, and those trucks create more than 50% of the total damage based on the combined data from all the WIM locations in the state. The contribution of overloaded trucks to the total fatigue damage varies so that their contribution is less significant along some routes. A typical steel bridge with bottom flange coverplates was evaluated using the WIM data from 1 year for a heavily traveled route. This analysis shows that the fatigue life of the bridge was consumed at an annual rate consistent with a mean life of 100 years. These procedures have applications in planning weight limit enforcement, budgeting, and maintenance, and they have the potential for future use in planning inspection intervals.
Biomechanical Functional Elbow Restoration of Acute Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears: The Role of Internal Bracing on Gap Formation and Repair Stabilization
Authors: Bachmaier Samuel , Wijdicks Coen A. , Verma Nikhil N. , Higgins Laurence D. , Greiner Stefan
Published: May 2020

Background:

Biomechanical studies have compared augmented primary repair with internal bracing versus reconstruction techniques of the anterior ulnar collateral ligament (aUCL) in the elbow. However, aUCL repair alone has not been compared with augmented repair or reconstruction techniques.

Hypothesis:

Internal bracing of aUCL repair provides improved time-zero stabilization in terms of gap formation, torsional stiffness, and residual torque compared with both repair alone and the modified docking technique, with enhanced valgus stability restoration to that of the native ligament.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

We randomized 8 matched pairs of cadaveric elbows to undergo either augmented aUCL repair or a modified docking technique through use of the palmaris longus tendon. Valgus laxity testing was consecutively performed at 90° of flexion on the intact, torn, and repaired conditions as well as the previously assigned techniques. First, intact elbows were loaded up to 10 N·m valgus torque to evaluate time-zero ligament rotations at valgus moments of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 N·m. Rotation controlled cycling was performed (total 1000 cycles) for each surgical condition. Gap formation, stiffness, and residual torque were analyzed. Finally, these elbows and 8 additional intact elbows underwent torque to failure testing (30 deg/min).

Results:

Repair alone revealed low torsional resistance and gapping, similar to the torn state. The augmented repair technique showed significantly higher torsional stiffness ( P < .001) and residual torque ( P < .001) compared with all other conditions and restored native function. Although reconstruction revealed similar initial stiffness and residual torque compared with an intact ligament, a steady decrease of torsional resistance led to a completely loose state at higher valgus rotations. Analysis of covariance between all groups showed significantly less gap formation for augmented repair ( P < .001). The native failure load and stiffness were significantly higher and were similar to those of augmented repair ( P = .766).

Conclusion:

Internal bracing of aUCL repair restored valgus stability to the native state with statistically improved torsional resistance, loading capability, and gap formation compared with reconstruction, especially at the upper load range of native aUCL function in the elbow.

Clinical Relevance:

We found that aUCL repair with an internal brace effectively improves time-zero mechanical characteristics and may provide stabilized healing with accelerated and reliable recovery without the need for a tendon graft.
A study on the mechanical and morphological behavior of polyurethane-encapsulated cholesteric liquid crystal composite films
Authors: Kemiklioglu Emine , Kemiklioğlu Uğur , Sayman Onur
Published: May 2020

This study explores the preparation and mechanical behavior of free-standing polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film membranes. Polyurethane (PU) was used as a thermoplastic polymer matrix to form these free-standing film membranes. Cholesteryl oleyl carbonate (COC) and cholesteryl pelargonate were used as liquid crystals (LCs) with different molecular weights. PDLC membranes were produced by casting method after LCs and polymer were mixed in the tetrahydrofuran solvent at room temperature. These membranes were formed at different concentration ratios of polymer and LCs. The relationship among the phase separation, LCs and polymer contents as well as the LCs molecular weights was investigated. The morphological structures of these membranes were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM images exhibited that the shapes of LC droplets embedded in PU matrix were more uniform and smaller than those of the membranes which include LC with lower molecular weight. The mechanical properties of the PDLC membranes were determined by carrying out the tensile tests. It was found that the membranes which include COC LC were more flexible.
The effect of fibre length and matrix modification on the fire performance of thermoplastic composites: The behaviour of PP as an example of non-charring matrix
Authors: Ghazzawi Yousof , Osorio Andres F , Martin Darren , Basnayake Asanka P , Heitzmann Michael T
Published: May 2020

The fire performance of fibre-reinforced polypropylene (PP) was investigated with respect to fibre length and modification of the matrix. Fibre lengths of 3 mm, 12 mm, and continuous fibres were used as reinforcements. E-glass continuous fabrics were melt impregnated with PP and consolidated via compression moulding. E-glass fibre-reinforced PP pellets of 3 and 12 mm were compression moulded. Cone calorimetry tests with incident radiant fluxes of 20, 30 and 35 kW m−2 were used to investigate the fire properties of PP glass fibre composites. Results showed that continuous glass fibre reinforced PP exhibits the best fire performance at 20 kW m−2, while 3-mm fibre has the best performance at 35 kW m−2; 12-mm fibre-reinforced PP exhibitedthe lowest performance in comparison with 3-mm and continuous glass fibre reinforcement. Melic-anhydride (MA)-modified PP was found to increase the heat release rate (HRR) by up to 44% and time to ignition by up to 10% depending on the heat flux applied in comparison with unmodified PP. The glass fibre-reinforced composite made with MA-modified PP has 5–12% lower mean HRR and similar time to ignition in comparison with glass fibre composite made by unmodified PP. This suggests improved fibre adhesion plays a role of the fire performance of glass fibre-reinforced PP.
Evaluation of a Pharmacist-Managed Hypertension Clinic in a Rural Primary Care Setting
Authors: Stallings Ashley M. , Dixon Candace , Carter Amanda , Ali Asima , Herring Charles
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To describe clinical pharmacy services provided in a rural North Carolina primary care clinic and assess the impact of these services on systolic and diastolic blood pressures in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods:

This single-center, retrospective study evaluated change in systolic and diastolic blood pressures from baseline, percentage of patients with blood pressure reductions, percentage at The Eight Joint National Committee (JNC 8) goal blood pressure, percentage at care gap closure defined as obtaining a blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg, and time to reach care gap closure.

Results:

The mean change in systolic blood pressure was −20.1 mm Hg (14.716-25.418, P < .0001) and the mean change in diastolic blood pressure was −8.8 mm Hg (5.449-12.117, P < .0001). Eighty percent of patients experienced blood pressure reductions from baseline, 51% met their respective JNC 8 goal blood pressure, and 48% met care gap closure. The average time to reach care gap closure was 23 weeks.

Conclusion:

When embedded within a primary care clinic in a rural setting, a pharmacist-managed hypertension clinic significantly improved both systolic and diastolic blood pressures of patients with uncontrolled hypertension.
‘I Get Money for What I Like Doing Best’: The Class Origin of Young Blue-Collar Workers and their Commitment to Work
Authors: Altreiter Carina , Flecker Jörg
Published: May 2020

Applying Bourdieu’s theory of social reproduction, this article deals with workers’ family-of-origin class position and the associated socialisation processes as systematic influencers of individual work orientations and commitment to work. It draws on a study of young blue-collar workers in Austria to argue how growing up in a working-class setting shapes dispositions that contribute to the commitment to manual work. The results show how these dispositions influence the assessment of work and, in particular, support a positive relationship with manual work and physical activity.
The relationship between PNP, GSTO-1, AS3MT and ADRB3 gene polymorphisms and urinary arsenic concentration among copper smelter and refinery employers
Authors: Szymańska-Chabowska A , Matys T , Łaczmański Ł , Czerwińska K , Janus A , Smyk B , Mazur G , Poręba R , Gać P
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between polymorphisms of genes encoding enzymes involved in arsenic metabolism and urinary arsenic concentration in people occupationally exposed to arsenic.

Materials and Methods:

The data from 113 employers directly exposed to lead, cadmium, and arsenic in copper smelter in Legnica and Glogow were collected. Urinary arsenic concentration was measured. In addition, blood level of cadmium, lead, and zinc protoporphyrins was assayed. Genetic analyses included polymorphism of PNP (rs 1130650), GSTO-1 (rs 4925), AS3MT (rs 11191439), and ADRB3 (rs4994) genes.

Results:

Individuals occupationally exposed to arsenic compounds, who have allele T in homozygous constellation in locus rs 1130650 of PNP gene, are predisposed to lower urinary arsenic concentration, while AA homozygosity in locus rs 4925 of GSTO-1 gene may result in statistically significant higher urinary arsenic concentration. Polymorphisms of AS3MT and ADRB3 genes showed no statistically significant correlation with urinary arsenic, however, there was a tendency to higher arsenic concentration in allele A carriers in locus rs4994 of ADRB3 gene and in allele T carriers in rs 11191439 of AS3MT gene.

Conclusion:

This study indicates that arsenic absorption and metabolism depend on polymorphisms of genes encoding PNP and GSTO-1. Individuals with disadvantageous constellation of polymorphisms are more susceptible to harmful effects of arsenic exposure.
Library and information science research in Pakistan: A bibliometric analysis, 1957–2018
Authors: Siddique Nadeem , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Khan Muhammad Ajmal , Altaf Asif
Published: May 2020

This article reviews 62 years (1957–2018) of research in library and information science in Pakistan. A comprehensive bibliometric study was conducted using the four leading databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Library and Information Science Abstracts, and Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts). The researchers found a positive upward trend. Library research is on the rise in Pakistan. The Department of Information Management at the University of the Punjab is the major contributor to the library and information science literature. Forty percent of the total publications were published in two Pakistani journals. Older and well-established institutions like the University of the Punjab and the University of Karachi have taken the lead in publishing research. The Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces require more focus and funding.
What should adult children do for their parents?
Authors: Xu Hanhui
Published: May 2020

Adult children’s particular obligations to their parents are filial obligations. The gratitude of filial obligations that treats one’s filial obligations as duties of gratitude to one’s parents is a mainstream view. However, in terms of the requirements of such obligations, the gratitude account fails to provide practical guidance. The general requirement seems that children should benefit their parents as the beneficiary should benefit the benefactor. The question is what kinds of benefits adult children should provide to their parents? In some cases, adult children feel obligated to provide particular benefits to their parents like paying their medical bills or spending time with them. While in some other cases, it seems that they can use their own discretion to decide how to satisfy the filial obligations so long as what they do benefits their parents. In this article, I am trying to argue that although the general requirement of the filial obligations is to benefit the parents, there are two kinds of benefits that adult children are strongly obligated to provide. These are special goods that parents can only get from their children and things that meet their parents’ basic needs. In addition, although adult children have filial obligations to benefit their parents, there should be some limitations on the requirements of filial obligation. Namely, adult children do not have a filial obligation to meet their parents’ desires that could only be satisfied at the cost of adult children’s liberty related to significant aspects of their lives, or to meet their parents’ desires that could only be satisfied at the cost of infringing their capacity to fulfil other important duties.
A Statistical Modeling of the Course of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Outbreak: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Ankarali Handan , Ankarali Seyit , Caskurlu Hulya , Cag Yasemin , Arslan Ferhat , Erdem Hakan , Vahaboglu Haluk
Published: May 2020

This study aims to provide both a model by using cumulative cases and cumulative death toll for SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) outbreak in four countries, China, Italy, South Korea, and Turkey, starting from the first diagnosis and to compare associated indicators. The most successful estimation was obtained from the cubic model with natural logarithm for China, Italy, South Korea, and Turkey. The success of the models was around 99%. However, differences began to emerge in China, Italy, and South Korea after the second week. Although the highest number of new cases per 1 million people in China was 9.8 on February 28, 2020; it was 108.4 on March 21, 2020, in Italy; and this was 16.6 on March 5, 2020, in South Korea. On the other hand, the number of new cases was 24.6 per 1 million people on March 27, 2020, in Turkey. The log-cubic model proposed in this study has been set forth to obtain successful results for aforementioned countries, as well as to estimate the course of the COVID-19 outbreak. Other factors such as climacteric factors and genetic differences, which may have an impact on viral spreading and transmission, would also have strengthened the model prediction capacity.
Reagents for detection of Rift Valley fever virus infection in sheep
Authors: Shiell Brian J. , Ye Siying , Harper Jennifer A. , van der Heide Brenda , Beddome Gary , Foord Adam J. , Michalski Wojtek P. , Bingham John , Peck Grantley R.
Published: May 2020

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) causes Rift Valley fever (RVF), resulting in morbidity and mortality in humans and ruminants. Evidence of transboundary outbreaks means that RVFV remains a threat to human health and livestock industries in countries that are free from the disease. To enhance surveillance capability, methods for detection of RVFV are required. The generation of reagents suitable for the detection of RVFV antigen in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from infected animals have been developed and are described herein. Recombinant nucleoprotein (rNP) was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified using immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. Purified rNP was used as an immunogen to produce anti-NP polyclonal antisera in rabbits for use in detection of RVFV NP in experimentally infected animals by immunohistochemistry. Antisera raised in rabbits against rNP were able to recognize viral NP antigen in fixed infected Vero cell pellets and sheep liver. Therefore, the methods and reagents described herein are useful in assays for detection of RVFV infections in animals, for research and surveillance purposes.
Older Adults’ Narratives of Seeking Mental Health Treatment: Making Sense of Mental Health Challenges and “Muddling Through” to Care
Authors: Reynolds Kristin , Medved Maria , Mackenzie Corey S. , Funk Laura Megan , Koven Lesley
Published: May 2020

Older adults who experience challenges related to mental health are unlikely to seek professional help. The voices of older adults who have navigated through mental health issues and systems of care to arrive at psychological treatment are less well understood. We conducted individual interviews with 15 adults aged 61 to 86 who sought psychological treatment. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using narrative methods. We identified several main storylines that describe the meaning-making and treatment-seeking journeys of older adults: resistance to being labeled with mental health problems (telling stories of resistance, defining mental health issues in mysterious and uncontrollable terms, and experiencing internal role conflict); muddling through the help-seeking process (manifestations of chaos and system-level barriers); and emotional reactions to psychological treatment (hope, fear, and mistrust). Findings add to the literature base in the area of narrative gerontology, and highlight the complex experiences that older adults face when seeking psychological treatment.
Mothering at the Intersection of Marginality: Exploring Breastfeeding Beliefs and Practices Among Women From Nova Scotia, Canada Who Identify as Overweight, Low Income, and Food Insecure
Authors: Sim S. Meaghan , Kirk Sara F. L. , Aston Megan
Published: May 2020

Breastfeeding is represented to support healthy body weight and food security. However, breastfeeding may be negatively impacted by high maternal body weight and income-related food insecurity. Guided by feminist poststructural methodology, this study explored breastfeeding beliefs and practices among women from Nova Scotia, Canada, identifying as income-related food insecure and overweight. Participants who were pregnant for the first time and intending to breastfeed participated in three interviews: prenatal ( n = 8), first month postpartum ( n = 6), and 3 months postpartum ( n = 6). Employing discourse analyses, we found that participants’ experiences aligned with dominant discursive representations of these health issues, informed through normative understandings of what it means to mother. However, some participants resisted and reframed what constitutes good mothering to identify with maternal subjectivities that were context specific. The findings have implications for understanding how discourses shape maternal identities and their effects for breastfeeding and other health-related practices.
Applying the Challenge-Hindrance Stressor Framework to Doctoral Education
Authors: McCauley Kelly Davis , Hinojosa Amanda S.
Published: May 2020

Doctoral education is inherently stressful for students. While the implications of stress on employees has been heavily investigated within the management literature, what we know about stress has not yet been applied to doctoral education. We take initial steps toward using the stress literature to examine stress in doctoral education by applying the challenge-hindrance stressor framework to the doctoral education context. We briefly define both challenge and hindrance stressors and list common stressors for both related to prototypical learning experiences in doctoral education. Next, we point out that student responses to stress vary because of individual differences, influencing the extent to which students appraise stressors as more hindrance or challenge focused. We also provide rich examples of learning experiences within doctoral education that demonstrate how these experiences incorporate hindrance and challenge stressors. Through these examples, we illustrate how educators can design major learning experiences in doctoral education to address (or at least minimize) hindrance stressors and integrate more challenge stressors. Last, we provide theory-driven recommendations for doctoral educators to capitalize on the positive effects of challenge stressors, and we discuss ways to establish a future research agenda to empirically test the challenge-hindrance framework in the doctoral education context.
Initial Feasibility and Efficacy of the Summer Treatment Program (STP-PreK) for Preschoolers With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Comorbid Externalizing Behavior Problems
Authors: Ros-Demarize Rosmary , Graziano Paulo A.
Published: May 2020

The current study examined the feasibility and initial efficacy of the Summer Treatment Program for Pre-kindergarteners (STP-PreK) with 37 preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and externalizing behavior problems (EBP). Parents and teachers reported on children’s behavior, social/adaptive skills, and self-regulation. Children completed a standardized achievement and executive functioning battery and an emotion knowledge task. The treatment was delivered with high levels of fidelity and was well received by families. Improvements were reported in parent-rated hyperactivity, inattention, aggression, and social and adaptive skills. Children also improved performance across academic achievement, emotion knowledge, and executive functioning and were rated by parents as having better executive functioning and emotion regulation. Findings highlight the initial efficacy of an established treatment in improving outcomes for preschoolers with ASD and EBP.
The Trend of Cleft Care at a Children’s Referral Center in Thailand
Authors: Setabutr Dhave , Sathavornmanee Thanakrit , Jitpakdee Polpatt , Nudchawong Songphon , Krergmatukorn Penpak
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To investigate the trend in cleft care at a major children’s referral center in Bangkok, Thailand.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Patients and Methods:

A review of 129 patients under 18 years of age who had underwent care by the senior author for cleft treatment between January 2015 and October 2017 was done. The impact of varying factors on patient care was analyzed. We compare our demographics and treatment timeline to that of previously published literature in more developed countries.

Setting:

Tertiary care medical center.

Results:

One hundred and two patient charts were reviewed with 53% male patients. Most patients had both cleft lip and cleft palate, 44%. Cleft lips most commonly were complete and occurred on the left side. In all, 77.4% of clefts were nonsyndromic. On average, primary cleft lip surgery was delayed being performed about 11 months of age. Sixteen percent of patients were treated with an obturator, while 11 patients had nasoalveolar molding use. Hearing screenings occurred on average at around 6 months of age. Abnormal tympanograms were evident in 32% of individuals. There was a significant difference in timing of surgery for patients who lived a distance greater than 30 kilometers from the hospital versus those from the Bangkok metropolis ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Reviewing data from a high-volume referral center in Thailand reveals mild variance with regard to cleft care timing compared to published literature from the developed world. Distance traveled was found to impact timing of surgery.
Does “Male” Depression Exist in Rural Australian Men?
Authors: Sharpley Christopher F. , Bitsika Vicki , Agnew Linda L.
Published: May 2020

To determine whether males exhibited a different form of depression to Major Depressive Disorder, 85 male volunteers completed a survey questionnaire about background variables, the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) and the Gotland Male Depression Scale (GMDS). Almost 50% of the variance in the GMDS was not accounted for by the SDS, and the sensitivity of the SDS against the GMDS showed that about 15% of those men who were identified as depressed on the GMDS would not be similarly identified on the SDS. Different prevalence rates from the two scales suggested that they were assessing different sets of symptoms of depression. A combined SDS-GMDS scale of 24 items was used to produce a profile of male depression in these men.
Using and Intensifying Video Modeling for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Zarate Kary , Maggin Daniel M.
Published: May 2020

Video modeling (VM) is a powerful and effective tool to support skill acquisition and generalization for students with and without emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). Video models can include adults, peers, and the very students at which skill development is directed. This article provides a definition of VM and descriptions of its varying formats, an overview of VM’s positive evidence base, reasons why VM is effective, and step-by-step guidance for VM implementation and intensification that meets the needs of students with EBD.
The Benefits and Challenges of a Regional Network to Address Campus Sexual Assault
Authors: McGann Patrick , E. Palmer Jane , Thomas Greerlin , Ricci Lauren , Haake Leah
Published: May 2020

To respond to the epidemic of sexual assault on college campuses, many postsecondary institutions have instituted campus climate surveys, strengthened sexual assault misconduct policies, and created sexual assault task forces to coordinate entities within the institutional setting. However, few colleges and universities have engaged with regional networks to exchange resources, research, and innovative practices across campuses. This exploratory study applies the theoretical framework of social exchange theory to examine the necessary infrastructure for a regional network to enhance campus policies and prevention programs related to sexual assault, and the efficacy of providing formal and informal opportunities for information sharing. Interviews were conducted with 10 staff and students from seven of the nine campuses in the network. The sample includes representatives from one large public university, two historically Black colleges, a community college, and three private universities, one of which is faith based. Results indicate that there are several benefits and a few challenges for college campuses that participate in a regional network. Primary benefits include resource and information exchange, as well as new opportunities for student leadership and collaboration across campuses. Some challenges include staff turnover and limited time to devote to the network, as well as distance between some campuses. Based on these findings, it is recommended that universities consider building informal or formal alliances with regional colleges for mutual benefit.