bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significant Published Articles for Pharmacy Nutrition Support Practice in 2018
Authors: Dickerson Roland N. , Kumpf Vanessa J. , Bingham Angela L. , Blackmer Allison B. , Canada Todd W. , Chan Lingtak-Neander , Cogle Sarah V. , Tucker Anne M.
Published: May 2019

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to assist the pharmacist engaged in nutrition support therapy in staying current with pertinent literature. Methods: Several clinical pharmacists engaged in nutrition support therapy compiled a list of articles published in 2018 considered important to their clinical practice. The citation list was compiled into a single spreadsheet where the author participants were asked to assess whether the article was considered important to nutrition support pharmacy practice. A culled list of publications was then identified whereby the majority of author participants (at least 5 of 8) considered the paper to be important. Guideline and consensus papers from professional organizations, important to practice but not scored, were also included. Results: A total of 117 articles were identified; 8 from the primary literature were voted by the group to be of high importance. An additional 13 organizational guidelines, position, recommendation, or consensus papers were also identified. The top-ranked articles from the primary literature were reviewed. Conclusion: We recommend that pharmacists engaged in nutrition support therapy be familiar with these articles as it pertains to their practice.
Regional Inequalities in Maternal and Neonatal Health Services in Iraq and Syria From 2000 to 2011
Authors: Abdulrahim Sawsan , Bousmah Marwân-al-Qays
Published: May 2019

We analyze regional inequalities in access to maternal and neonatal health services in Iraq and Syria during the period 2000–2011, before the rise of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, ISIS. Utilizing nationally representative survey data (Iraq 2000, 2006, 2011; Syria 2006, 2009), we examine changes in the rate of babies weighed at birth and women delivering at home. We calculate 4 regional inequality indicators: (1) extremal quotient, (2) interquartile quotient, (3) coefficient of variation, and (4) systematic component of variation. Despite national improvements in both countries over time, indicators show increasing regional inequalities in access to maternal and neonatal health services, particularly in Syria between 2006 and 2009. Spatial regression results indicate that these inequalities associate with inequalities in maternal education, rurality, and wealth. Regions where women experienced deteriorating access over time, reflecting overall inequalities, are those that fell under the control of ISIS. Inequalities in access to basic services (education and health) deserve more attention in understanding social and political change in the Arab region.
Effect of Sustained Joint Loading on TMJ Disc Nutrient Environment
Authors: Wu Y. , Cisewski S.E. , Coombs M.C. , Brown M.H. , Wei F. , She X. , Kern M.J. , Gonzalez Y.M. , Gallo L.M. , Colombo V. , Iwasaki L.R. , Nickel J.C. , Yao H.
Published: May 2019

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc nutrient environment profoundly affects cell energy metabolism, proliferation, and biosynthesis. Due to technical challenges of in vivo measurements, the human TMJ disc extracellular nutrient environment under load, which depends on metabolic rates, solute diffusion, and disc morphometry, remains unknown. Therefore, the study objective was to predict the TMJ disc nutrient environment under loading conditions using combined experimental and computational modeling approaches. Specifically, glucose consumption and lactate production rates of porcine TMJ discs were measured under varying tissue culture conditions ( n = 40 discs), and mechanical strain-dependent glucose and lactate diffusivities were measured using a custom diffusion chamber ( n = 6 discs). TMJ anatomy and loading area were obtained from magnetic resonance imaging of healthy human volunteers ( n = 11, male, 30 ± 9 y). Using experimentally determined nutrient metabolic rates, solute diffusivities, TMJ anatomy, and loading areas, subject-specific finite element (FE) models were developed to predict the 3-dimensional nutrient profiles in unloaded and loaded TMJ discs (unloaded, 0% strain, 20% strain). From the FE models, glucose, lactate, and oxygen concentration ranges for unloaded healthy human TMJ discs were 0.6 to 4.0 mM, 0.9 to 5.0 mM, and 0% to 6%, respectively, with steep gradients in the anterior and posterior bands. Sustained mechanical loading significantly reduced nutrient levels ( P < 0.001), with a critical zone in which cells may die representing approximately 13.5% of the total disc volume. In conclusion, this study experimentally determined TMJ disc metabolic rates, solute diffusivities, and disc morphometry, and through subject-specific FE modeling, revealed critical interactions between mechanical loading and nutrient supply and metabolism for the in vivo human TMJ disc. The results suggest that TMJ disc homeostasis may be vulnerable to pathological loading (e.g., clenching, bruxism), which impedes nutrient supply. Given difficulties associated with direct in vivo measurements, this study provides a new approach to systematically investigate homeostatic and degenerative mechanisms associated with the TMJ disc.
Canine-Assisted Interviews Bolster Informativeness for Negative Autobiographical Memories
Authors: Capparelli Amy L. , Miller Quincy C. , Wright Daniel B. , London Kamala
Published: May 2019

Humans and animals share a unique bond. Professionals are capitalizing on the human–animal bond by incorporating animals into therapy, forensic interviews, and the courtroom. However, the mnemonic consequence for including dogs in forensic interviews has not been empirically evaluated. In the current study, we examined whether the use of dogs increases the quantity of verbal reports for emotional events. Undergraduate participants were randomly assigned to dog or no dog conditions. Participants were interviewed about positive experienced events and negative experienced events. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for quantity of new information. Participants shared more new information in negative event reports with a dog present than with no dog present. There were no significant differences in the quantity of information disclosed for positive event memories between dog conditions. Canine-assisted interviews may provide comfort to people, resulting in more elaborative autobiographical reports about negative stressful events.
Higher Levels of Grit Are Associated With a Stronger Fading Affect Bias
Authors: Walker W. Richard , Alexander Halie , Aune Kine
Published: May 2019

The affect associated with negative events fades faster than the affect associated with positive events (the fading affect bias). The fading affect bias is present in most participants and is thought to be evidence of a healthy coping mechanism operating in autobiographical memory. Prior research shows that the fading affect bias can be distorted by negative individual difference variables such as dysphoria and anxiety. The goal of this research is to link the fading affect bias to the positive individual difference variable of Grit. A total of 197 participants completed the short Grit Scale and were divided into four groups based on their Grit scores (i.e., low Grit to high Grit). Participants retrieved positive and negative event memories and then made affect ratings for the events. The results show that increased levels of Grit were associated with a stronger fading affect bias.
Ventricular interaction in the jugular venous pulse in aortic regurgitation
Authors: Almoosawy Sayed Abdulmotaleb , Buchan Keith , Cross Stephen
Published: May 2019

A patient with severe aortic regurgitation due to rapidly progressive staphylococcal endocarditis demonstrated an unusual physical sign of prominent diastolic venous pulsation. We suggest that this venous pulse is the result of diastolic ventricular interaction in which inflow of blood into the right ventricle is arrested in the latter part of diastole due to extreme left ventricular distension. We wish to highlight this sign so that others can look for it with the aim of improving our understanding and treatment of ventricular interaction associated with heart failure.
Facing the challenges of perioperative air leaks using water seal in Colombia
Authors: Vinck Eric E , Martínez Stella I , Barrios Rodolfo V , Téllez Luis J , Garzón Juan C , García-Herreros Luis
Published: May 2019

Air leaks following thoracic surgery continue to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. In contemporary thoracic surgery, many aspects of post-surgical air leaks are still controversial. In developing countries like Colombia, state-of-the-art technology such as newer digital drainage systems are not always available, and surgeons rely primarily on water seal systems for air leak management. Although efforts are being made to increase the use of newer digital systems, being a third-world country has its challenges, and we emphasize the importance of following international guidelines as much as possible, especially when facing complex situations such as perioperative air leaks with limited resources.
Community Preparedness in Flood Disaster: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Priyanti Ratna P. , Hidayah Nurul , Rosmaharani Shanti , Nahariani Pepin , Asri  , Mukarromah Nur , Mundakir
Published: May 2019

The purpose of the study is to explore community perception about community preparedness in facing flood disaster. The qualitative descriptive with phenomenology approach was used in this study. A semistructured interview, observation, and field notes were used for seven participants of the village that was affected by flood disaster. Colaizzi’s method of qualitative data analysis is an approach used for analyzing data. Result of research found five themes about people perception of flood preparedness. The themes are past experience, early warning system, housing condition, shelter, and resource. Public perception and response to flood disaster are influenced by social cognitive and social capacity.
Theta/SMR Neurofeedback Training Works Well for Some Forensic Psychiatric Patients, But Not for Others: A Sham-Controlled Clinical Case Series
Authors: Fielenbach S. , Donkers F. C. L. , Spreen M. , Smit A. , Bogaerts S.
Published: May 2019

Electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback could be a promising treatment for forensic psychiatric patients. Increasing evidence shows some patients are unable to regulate cortical activity. Before neurofeedback can be applied successfully, research is needed to investigate the interpersonal mechanisms responsible for patients’ ability to respond to neurofeedback. A single-case experimental design allows for close monitoring of individual patients, providing valuable information about patients’ response to the intervention and the time frame in which changes in clinical symptoms can be observed. Four patients with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.; DSM-IV-TR) substance use disorder and various comorbidities participated in a sham-controlled clinical case study. Self-report level of impulsivity and craving were assessed. Results indicate that one patient showed more improvements on behavioral measures after the neurofeedback training than did the others. This patient reported less impulsivity and reduced levels of self-reported craving. However, these findings could not be attributed to the neurofeedback intervention. The findings suggest that there is insufficient evidence for the beneficial effects of a theta/sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback intervention on measures of impulsivity and craving, and that there may be great interindividual differences in patients’ ability to regulate cortical activity.
The experience of living in deprived neighbourhoods for LGBT+ people: Making home in difficult circumstances
Authors: Matthews Peter , Poyner Christopher
Published: May 2019

Research in urban studies on lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT+) people and their housing choices has focused on economic choices and the role of exclusion, or conversely higher household disposable income, in residential location. Evidence on lived experiences has focused on residence in so-called ‘gaybourhoods’ with high concentrations of non-heterosexual households, or experiences within the home. Contrasting to this scholarship, in this paper we focus on LGBT+ people who live in socially rented housing in deprived neighbourhoods that are geographically, socially and economically marginal. Our evidence shows how complex experiences of exclusion for LGBT+ people, not always directly connected to their sexual or gender identity, led to individuals living in these neighbourhoods. Using the theoretical approach of housing pathways, we further suggest that these neighbourhoods offer limited affordances for wellbeing for LGBT+ individuals that need to be recognised by housing and other service providers. We also argue that mainstream housing and urban studies needs to use sexual and gender identity as a category of analysis in research so we can better understand the lived experiences of non-heterosexual individuals and households.
Safety in Numbers for Bicyclists at Urban Intersections
Authors: Carlson Kristin , Ermagun Alireza , Murphy Brendan , Owen Andrew , Levinson David
Published: May 2019

This study assesses the estimated crashes per bicyclist and per vehicle as a function of bicyclist and vehicle traffic and tests whether greater traffic reduces the per-vehicle crash rate, a phenomenon referred to as “safety in numbers” (SIN). We present a framework for comprehensive bicyclist risk assessment modeling, using estimated bicyclist flow per intersection, observed vehicle flow, and crash records. Testing a two-part model of crashes, we reveal that both the average of annual average daily traffic (AADT) over a 14-year period and the estimated daily bicyclist traffic (DBT) have a diminishing return to scale in crashes. This accentuates the positive role of SIN. Higher volumes of vehicles and cyclists lowers not only the probability of crashes, but the number of crashes as well. Measuring the elasticity of the variables, it is found that a 1% increase in the average of AADT across the time window increases the probability of crashes by 0.14% and the number of crashes by 0.80%. However, a 1% increase in the estimated DBT increases the probability of crashes by 0.09% and the number of crashes by 0.50%.
Evaluating the Operational Effect of Narrow Lanes and Shoulders for the Highway Capacity Manual
Authors: Kondyli Alexandra , Hale David K. , Asgharzadeh Mohamadamin , Schroeder Bastian , Jia Anxi , Bared Joe
Published: May 2019

Unnecessary traffic delays and vehicle emissions have adverse effects on quality of life. To solve the traffic congestion problem in the U.S.A., mitigation or elimination of bottlenecks is a top priority. Agencies across the U.S.A. have deployed several congestion mitigation strategies, such as lane and shoulder width reduction, which aim to adding lanes without significantly altering the footprint of the freeway. A limited number of studies have evaluated the operational benefits of lane narrowing. Although the Highway Capacity Manual does account for lane and shoulder widths, the adjustments that it provides are outdated. The goal of this research was to develop analytical models, compatible with the Highway Capacity Manual methods, to account for lane and shoulder width narrowing, using field data from across the U.S.A. This paper presents a new free-flow speed regression model, which accounts for lane and shoulder widths, and capacity adjustment factors depending on the lane width.
An Approach for Development of Local Safety Performance Functions for Multi-Lane Rural Divided Highways in Egypt
Authors: Asal Hend I. , Said Dalia G.
Published: May 2019

Egypt is a middle-income country, belonging to the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Egypt used to be the worst performing EMR country, with over 45 fatalities per 100,000 population. It is considered an example case of many EMR countries in the region where there is a need for quantitative assessment of safety on its roads. The Highway Safety Manual (HSM) offers several functions to calculate safety performance (SPFs), which can estimate crash frequency on a highway network according to its geometric and traffic characteristics. The HSM was developed in the United States using road and crash data specific to its environment. Jurisdictions and other non-U.S. regions were encouraged to develop locally derived models suitable for the local characteristics of roads and crashes. The objective of this paper is to assess the suitability of using the HSM models on rural multi-lane divided highways in Egypt. The calibrated SPFs considering Egyptian road factors were compared with the actual crash events. The results showed that there was a need to develop locally derived SFPs using negative binomial models. The modeling approach and a validation procedure were presented and are applicable when developing local SPFs to compare how well the model performs to the actual data, and to HSM calibrated models. The models were created using 90% of the data and tested on the remaining 10% of the data. The study found that the results relating to driver behavior would help designers in regions other than the United States to benefit from the HSM.
Dynamic Toll Pricing using Dynamic Traffic Assignment System with Online Calibration
Authors: Zhang Yundi , Atasoy Bilge , Akkinepally Arun , Ben-Akiva Moshe
Published: May 2019

The paper presents a toll pricing methodology using a dynamic traffic assignment (DTA) system. This methodology relies on the DTA system’s capability to understand and predict traffic conditions, thus enhanced online calibration methodologies are applied to the DTA system, featuring a heuristic technique to calibrate supply parameters online. Improved offline calibration techniques are developed to apply toll pricing in a real network consisting of managed lanes and general purpose lanes. The online calibration methodologies are tested using real data from this network, and the results find the DTA system able to estimate and predict traffic flow and speed with satisfactory accuracy under congestion. Toll pricing is formulated as an optimization problem to maximize toll revenue, subject to network conditions and tolling regulations. Travelers are assumed to make route choice based on offline calibrated discrete choice models. Toll optimization is applied in a closed-loop evaluation framework where a microscopic simulator is used to mimic the real network. Online calibration of the DTA system is enabled to ensure good optimization performance. Toll optimization is tested under multiple experimental scenarios, and the methodology is found able to increase toll revenue compared with the condition when online calibration is not available. It should be noted that the toll rates and revenues presented in this paper are obtained in a simulation environment based on the calibration and optimization algorithms, and as the work is ongoing these results are far from being a recommendation to operators of managed lanes.
Estimating the Equity Effects of Adding Additional Parameters to a Mileage-Based Road Usage Charge for Seven States
Authors: Schroeckenthaler Kyle A. , Fitzroy Stephen S.
Published: May 2019

This paper explores the feasibility and sensitivity of a mileage-based road usage charge (RUC) as an alternative to the gas tax. The specific purpose is to evaluate factors that could be considered when setting a charge to account for the complex makeup of statewide motor fleets, and to consider the diversity of household driving behaviors and experiences. The researchers considered a range of potential parameters before choosing to focus on fuel type and fuel efficiency. If based on annually adjusted efficiency quantiles, a parameterized RUC could prevent revenue erosion over time. Formulas based on these parameters were compared with the current fuel excise tax and a flat RUC. Distributional effects of parameters were assessed for urban, mixed, and rural household categories, and for vehicles of different fuel types. Results show that households in urban tracts tend to pay slightly more under all formulations, and households in mixed and rural tracts pay less compared with an excise-based gas tax. In addition to changes across regions of a state, the method allows examination of the groups within these categories. Research found that adjusting for fuel efficiency reduced the change in incidence between urban, mixed, and rural census tracts, and between fuel types, that results from moving to a flat RUC. Fuel type parameters resulted in only small differences from the flat rate RUC because of low alternative fuel penetration in most states. This may change over time depending on the rate of integration of alternative fuels into the passenger car fleet.
Does Automated Enforcement Presence Impact Collisions and Crime?
Authors: Ibrahim Shewkar , Sayed Tarek
Published: May 2019

Enforcement agencies generally operate under a strict budget and with limited resources. For this reason, they are continually searching for new approaches to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of their deployment. The Data-Driven Approaches to Crime and Traffic Safety approach attempts to identify opportunities where increased visibility of traffic enforcement can lead to a reduction in collision frequencies as well as criminal incidents. Previous research developed functions to model collisions and crime separately, despite evidence suggesting that the two events could be correlated. Additionally, there is little knowledge of the implications of automated enforcement programs on crime. This study developed a Multivariate Poisson-Lognormal model for the city of Edmonton to quantify the correlation between collisions and crime and to determine whether automated enforcement programs can also reduce crime within a neighborhood. The results of this study found a high correlation between collisions and crime of 0.72 which indicates that collision hotspots were also likely to be crime hotspots. The results of this paper also showed that increased enforcement presence resulted in reductions not only in collisions but also in crime. If a single deployment can achieve multiple objectives (e.g., reducing crime and collisions), then optimizing an agency’s deployment strategy would decrease the demand on their resources and allow them to achieve more with less.
A new methodology for design and manufacturing of a customized silicone partial foot prosthesis using indirect additive manufacturing
Authors: Abdelaal Osama , Darwish Saied , Abd Elmougoud Khaled , Aldahash Saleh
Published: May 2019

The production of customized prostheses for the foot and ankle still relies on slow and laborious steps of the traditional plaster molding fabrication techniques. Additive manufacturing techniques where three-dimensional objects can be constructed directly based on the object’s computer-aided-design data in a layerwise manner has opened the door to new opportunities for manufacturing of novel and personalized medical devices. The purpose of the present study was to develop a new methodology for design and manufacturing of a customized silicone partial foot prosthesis via an indirect additive manufacturing process. Furthermore, the biomechanics of gait of a subject with partial foot amputation wearing the custom silicone foot prosthesis manufactured by the indirect additive manufacturing was characterized, in comparison with a matched healthy participant. This study has confirmed the possibility of producing silicone partial foot prosthesis by indirect additive manufacturing procedure. The amputated subject reported total comfort using the custom prosthesis during walking, as well as cosmetic advantages. The prosthesis restored the foot geometry and normalized many of gait characteristics. The findings presented here contribute to introduce a proper understanding of biomechanics of walking after wearing silicone partial foot prosthesis and are useful for prosthetists and rehabilitation therapists when treating patients after partial foot amputation.
Assessment of cytocompatibility and mechanical properties of detergent-decellularized ovine pericardial tissue
Authors: Mogaldea Alexandru , Theodoridis Karolina , Goecke Tobias , Tudorache Igor , Haverich Axel , Cebotari Serghei , Hilfiker Andres
Published: May 2019

Background:

Autologous pericardium is widely used for the repair of different sized cardiovascular defects. However, its use is limited especially in redo cardiac surgery. We developed an engineered tissue based on decellularized pericardium reseeded with blood-derived endothelial cells.

Materials and Methods:

Decellularization of ovine pericardium was performed using detergent treatment. Ovine outgrowth blood-derived and green fluorescent protein–labeled endothelial cells were used to reseed the decellularized ovine pericardium on the mesothelial side. The cell adhesion was assessed using fluorescent microscopy up to 15 days of in vitro cultivation. The mechanical properties of the pericardium were evaluated using suturability, burst pressure, and suture retention strength tests.

Results:

After decellularization the pericardial sheets appeared cell-free and repopulation using ovine blood-derived endothelial cells was successful by forming a robust monolayer. Detergent treatment did not affect the extracellular matrix. The thickness of decellularized tissue was similar to native ovine pericardium (285.3 ± 28.2 µm, respective 276.9 ± 23.8 µm, p = 0.48). Decellularized patch showed similar suturability comparable to the native ovine pericardium. Resulted burst pressure was not significantly different (native/decellularized: 312.5 ± 13.6/304.2 ± 16, p = 0.35). The suture retention strength of native pericardium was 638.33 ± 90.2 gr and comparable to decellularized tissue (622.2 ± 89.9 gr, p = 0.76). No differences were observed concerning elongation of native and decellularized pericardium (8.33 ± 1.5 and 8.5 ± 0.84 mm, respectively; p = 0.82).

Conclusion:

Mesothelial surface of decellularized ovine pericardium is suitable for reseeding with ovine blood-derived endothelial cells. The mechanical properties of detergent-treated pericardium were comparable to native tissue.
Assessment of Implementation Outcomes of a Peer-Led Program Targeting Fear of Falling Among Older Adults
Authors: Lorthios-Guilledroit Agathe , Filiatrault Johanne , Richard Lucie
Published: May 2019

Background: This study examined the implementation outcomes (program reach, fidelity, adaptations, responsiveness) of a peer-led program for older adults with fear of falling — Vivre en Équilibre (VEE). Method: VEE was implemented in six independent-living residences for older adults in Quebec (Canada) as part of an effectiveness study. Implementation outcomes were documented using attendance sheets, peer leaders’ logbooks, observation sheets, and phone-administered questionnaires. Qualitative interviews were also conducted with peer leaders, activity coordinators of residences, and a subsample of program participants. Results: The program reached 71 participants who generally corresponded to the program’s target population. Peer leaders delivered the program with moderate to high fidelity but adapted some elements. Responsiveness was good, as reflected by a high attendance rate (91%) and respondents’ satisfaction levels. Conclusion: Findings revealed that VEE was well implemented, suggesting that it can be successfully delivered by peer leaders.
Temperature-sensitive anti-adhesive poloxamer hydrogel decreases fascial adhesion in total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Kim Jong-Keun , Park Jae-Young , Lee Do Weon , Ro Du Hyun , Lee Myung Chul , Han Hyuk-Soo
Published: May 2019

A temperature sensitive anti-adhesive poloxamer (TAP) hydrogel has been developed to reduce post-operative adhesion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TAP hydrogel on fascial adhesion and clinical outcomes including range of motion, pain, and patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty. Sixty patients who underwent unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty for knee osteoarthritis were included and randomized to either TAP group or control group. After capsular closure, TAP hydrogel was applied on the fascial layer in 30 patients of the TAP hydrogel group, while normal saline was applied to 30 patients of the control group. The primary variable was range of motion at postoperative seven days, three months, and one year. As secondary outcomes, degree of skin fold, fascial thickness measured with ultra-sonography, postoperative pain visual analogue scale, total cumulative analgesics consumption, clinical scores, and degree of satisfaction were evaluated. There were no significant differences in range of motion after surgery between the two groups. However, the degree of suprapatellar skin folding in the TAP hydrogel group was less than that of the control group at six weeks after surgery ( p = 0.041). There were no significant differences in postoperative fascial thickness, pain visual analogue scale, analgesics consumption, clinical scores, or degree of satisfaction. No surgical site complication was observed. The use of TAP hydrogel failed to enhance range of motion. However, application of TAP hydrogel on the fascial layer after capsular closure in total knee arthroplasty may decrease early postoperative fascial adhesion without any complications.
Unlocking the Door to Safety and Stability: Housing Barriers for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Gezinski Lindsay B. , Gonzalez-Pons Kwynn M.
Published: May 2019

Housing has been identified as critical for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) to achieve long-term stability, but both individual- and system-level barriers hinder its obtainment. The purpose of this research study was to assess the challenges to service access and service delivery for survivors in Utah. In-depth, semistructured interviews and focus groups were conducted with 102 participants, including 43 survivors and 59 service providers. Data analysis consisted of line-by-line coding, identifying themes, coding categories, and developing matrices to uncover relationships between themes and categories. Overwhelmingly, participants communicated an immense need for emergency shelter upon exit from an abusive relationship, yet reported limited shelter space. Service providers reported that scarce funding coupled with grantor-imposed expectations impede their ability to serve all survivors in need. When turned away from shelter, survivors resorted to staying in a motel, car, homeless shelter, or even returning to the perpetrator. Barriers to obtaining permanent housing included unaffordability, landlord discrimination, and insufficient documentation. Indigenous and immigrant survivors encountered amplified barriers to housing stability. Despite the prominence of Housing First in Utah, survivors were unable to access much needed housing resources. Housing First programs can and should be tailored to meet the unique housing needs of survivors of IPV. Therefore, Housing First eligibility requirements should be adjusted, and a specific number of placements should be reserved for survivors and their children. IPV-related trauma must be understood as multifaceted, and services for survivors should simultaneously target this trauma while meeting basic needs. Future research should examine interventions such as rapid rehousing and permanent supportive housing on survivors’ safety and stability in the long-term.
Bioethanol production from Madhuca latifolia L. flowers by a newly isolated strain of Pichia kudriavzevii
Authors: Agrawal Tripti , Quraishi Afaque , Jadhav Shailesh Kumar
Published: May 2019

There is a growing interest worldwide to search new, cheap and non-food biomass source for ethanol production. Bioethanol is a liquid fuel produced from renewable biomass source. In the present study, ethanol production from flowers of Madhuca latifolia trees was investigated by yeast strain isolated from milk whey. The isolated yeast was screened for fermentation ability by carbohydrate fermentation test and subjected to fermentation using M. latifolia flowers as substrate. The isolated yeast strain was identified as Pichia kudriavzevii on the basis of sequencing of D1/D2 domain of rRNA gene through basic local alignment search tool and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Maximum ethanol production, 371 g kg−1 from the flowers was achieved via optimizing operational parameters; a fermentation duration of 48 h, temperature 25°C, and pH 5.0. The effect of nitrogen supplements, enzymatic treatment and co-culture on bioethanol production with the optimized conditions revealed that the optimal condition could produce maximum ethanol without any supplementation or treatment. Co-culturing of P. kudriavzevii strain with Pichia stipitis NCIM 3497 was able to enhance ethanol production. The present study provides baseline information for further scale up of bioethanol production process on industrial level using M. latifolia flowers as a cheap and non-food biomass source.
Retiform non-blanchable purpuric plaques in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Grinnell M , Bath A , DiMaio D , Hultgren T , Hearth-Holmes M
Published: May 2019

Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is a small vessel occlusive disease that can present with a painful purpuric eruption. Predominantly affecting young women, LV has been associated with hypercoagulable states and antiphospholipid syndrome. We present an unusual case of LV occurring in the setting of acute kidney injury secondary to lupus nephritis. It is important to differentiate LV from vasculitis as the treatment recommendation centers on anticoagulation therapy rather than immunosuppression. Additionally, antiphospholipid syndrome should be ruled out in cases of systemic lupus erythematosus with LV due to risk of thrombotic events.
Domain I of β2GPI is capable of blocking serum IgA antiphospholipid antibodies binding in vitro: an effect enhanced by PEGylation
Authors: Albay A , Artim-Esen B , Pericleous C , Wincup C , Giles I , Rahman A , McDonnell T
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This study aims to inhibit antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) serum derived IgA anti-beta-2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) binding using Domain I (DI).

Methods

Serum from 13 APS patients was tested for IgA aβ2GPI and Anti-Domain I. Whole IgA was purified by peptide M affinity chromatography from positive serum samples. Serum was tested for IgA aβ2GPI binding in the presence and absence of either DI or of two biochemically modified variants containing either 20 kDa of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) or 40 kDa of PEG.

Results

Significant inhibition with DI was possible with average inhibition of 23% ( N = 13). Further inhibitions using 20 kDa PEG-DI and 40 kDa PEG-DI variants showed significant inhibition ( p = 0.0001) with both the 40 kDa PEG-DI and 20 kDa PEG-DI variants showing increased inhibition compared with DI alone ( p = 0.0001 and p = 0.001, n = 10).

Conclusions

Inhibition of IgA aβ2GPI by DI is possible and can be enhanced by biochemical modification in a subset of patients.
Molecular methods in detection and epidemiologic studies of rabbit and hare viruses: a review
Authors: Kwit Ewa , Rzeżutka Artur
Published: May 2019

Various PCR-based assays for rabbit viruses have gradually replaced traditional virologic assays, such as virus isolation, because they offer high-throughput analysis, better test sensitivity and specificity, and allow vaccine and wild-type virus strains to be fully typed and differentiated. In addition, PCR is irreplaceable in the detection of uncultivable or fastidious rabbit pathogens or those occurring in low quantity in a tested sample. We provide herein an overview of the current state of the art in the molecular detection of lagomorph viral pathogens along with details of their targeted gene or nucleic acid sequence and recommendations for their application. Apart from the nucleic acids–based methods used for identification and comprehensive typing of rabbit viruses, novel methods such as microarray, next-generation sequencing, and mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) could also be employed given that they offer greater throughput in sample screening for viral pathogens. Molecular methods should be provided with an appropriate set of controls, including an internal amplification control, to confirm the validity of the results obtained.
A Case for Critical Social Work Action
Authors: Levin Lia , Liberman Adaya
Published: May 2019

Despite critical social work’s (CSW) growing popularity, its praxes and associated policies have thus far remained largely discursive. This situation can be attributed to several factors, including social workers’ attitudes, training, and education and the nature of the systems and organizations employing them. In this article, we contend that besides these viable inhibiting factors, CSW has yet to become a widely used praxis as a result of some of its intrinsic characteristics and the encounter between them and the social work profession. The main part of this article offers guiding principles for promoting critical social work action (CSWA). These principles, which are largely based upon and inspired by fundamentals of Paulo Freire’s genuine pedagogical action, include dialectic practice and policy-making; impatient patience; exemption from neutrality; redefining rationality; humanization, liberation, and transformation; and the formulation of alternatives to silence.
Relationships, Participation, and Characteristics of a Community of Practice in Short-Term Adult Study Abroad
Authors: Davis Brittany , Coryell Joellen E.
Published: May 2019

This study examines the role relationships have in learning among graduate students during a short-term cross-cultural field study in Italy. During group and personal reflections, students expressed the value of relationships and engagement, and how they perceived these experiences to influence their learning. Using relational learning and communities of practice as our framework, we analyzed blogs written by master’s and doctoral students as well as interviews conducted with the nine students to determine how relationships and interpersonal interactions may have helped shape their experiences abroad. Our findings provide insight into relationships, participation, and characteristics of a study abroad program to support becoming a member of a knowledge community of comparative international adult education. Our findings also provide implications for design, implementation, and facilitation for faculty and others who conduct educational programs abroad for adults.
Taking a Glimpse Into the Future by Playing?
Authors: Lohmann Robert
Published: May 2019

Background. This article analyses whether an experimental policy-simulation might help political scientists in making predictions about prospective situations. Within the presented simulation-game, two groups of randomly assigned participants discussed the same issues but had different demographic structures. The ways in which their discussions transpired and results of the negotiation might provide a glimpse at how decisions might be made by societies in the future.

Purpose. This article presents this special simulation-game. Furthermore, it seeks to discuss whether policy-simulations can be designed as experiments, whether there is a benefit, and for whom.

Method. This study is based on both qualitative and quantitative data. The partici-pants in the simulation-game have been questioned in a pretest and in two post-tests. Furthermore, six pre- and post-interviews were conducted with involved experts.

Results. The results show that the simulation-game can provide some ideas about the future, if perhaps not necessarily a wholly accurate image of the future. Observing experts and the participants gained some knowledge about how future generations might work together and where potential conflicts might be.

Conclusion. Policy-simulations can be designed as experiments and might help to provide a glimpse into future, but designing such simulation-games is even more com-plex than designing simulationgames for a solely educational use.
Supporting Interventions to Reduce Household Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Transdisciplinary Role-Playing Game Development
Authors: Agusdinata Datu Buyung , Lukosch Heide
Published: May 2019

Background. Designing interventions for conserving the food, energy, and water nexus at household level poses a significant challenge due to the complex interplay between human behaviors, technologies, and policies. Games show potential to increase awareness for environmental issues and influence behaviors towards more sustainable practices.

Aim. By bringing together scientists and practitioners in the game design process, a transdisciplinary (TD) approach is seen as a promising way to integrate available knowledge and establish ownership of the problem and solution options. Few gaming literature, however, looked at combining the two approaches in addressing resource conservation issues.

Method. We present a systematic account of the TD approach process of developing a role-playing game (RPG) - called HomeRUN (Role-play for Understanding Nexus).

Results. We documented our experiences in terms of challenges as well as the benefits of the TD approach. Interacting disciplines in this process include psychology, economics, engineering, climate, sociology, and computer science. Inputs from each discipline combined with feedback from social actors that include city government, utility companies, and community members facilitated continuous improvements of the RPG design.
The Impact of International Business Strategy Simulation Games on Student Engagement
Authors: Rogmans Tim , Abaza Wasseem
Published: May 2019

Background. Despite the increasing use of business simulation games in management education little is known about their effectiveness as learning tools.

Aim. The aims of this study were to assess the effectiveness of an international business simulation game in enhancing levels of student engagement.

Methods. We investigated student engagement levels after using a simulation game, as measured through quantitative self-reports obtained through a survey among students. The results were compared to engagement levels experienced in more traditional classroom based case discussions with the same students in the same course. The study was carried out across six class sections taught by two professors over two semesters.

Results. The results show that average student engagement levels were higher during the traditional case study class than during the class using the simulation game. The standard deviation of the reported levels of student engagement was higher for the simulation game than for the traditional class, indicating that student responses were more extreme (either positive or negative) for the class using the simulation game. Students who were generally more motivated to learn reported higher levels of engagement with the simulation, whereas students with low levels of motivation who found the game complex became less engaged.

Conclusion. Simulation games are not always necessarily effective in enhancing engagement among all students. The choice between traditional and experiential learning methods may be partly determined on the basis of the level of student motivation and other student characteristics.
How to Judge Safety Crime: Lessons From the Eternit Asbestos Maxi-Trials
Authors: Marichalar Pascal
Published: May 2019

When it comes to occupational injury, disease, and fatalities, criminal prosecution and punishment is the exception. This paper focuses on three loopholes in legal strategy that make it difficult for determined social movements and committed prosecutors to secure conviction against corporate executives: they are the notions (1) that “modern” industrial risk is by essence impersonal and diluted, making the assignment of individual responsibility difficult or impossible, (2) that industrial hazard is foreign to any notion of intention, fault or responsibility, (3) that the certainty of the causal link between exposure and damages must be established for each victim on a purely individual, rather than statistical, basis. I describe how Italian prosecutors sought to circumvent these loopholes in the Eternit asbestos maxi-trials. Although there appear to be solid legal workarounds for the first and second loophole, the third one remains problematic, calling for urgent political and legal imagination.
Associations Between Potentially Inappropriate Medications and Adverse Health Outcomes in the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Xing Xiao Xuan , Zhu Chen , Liang Hua Yu , Wang Ke , Chu Yan Qi , Zhao Li Bo , Jiang De Chun , Wang Yu Qin , Yan Su Ying
Published: May 2019

Background: Adverse drug outcomes in the elderly have led to the development of lists of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs), such as the Beers criteria, and these PIMs have been studied widely; however, it is still unclear whether PIM use is predictive of adverse outcomes in older people. Objective: To qualitatively examine the associations between exposure to PIMs from the general Beers criteria and the Screening Tool of Older Persons’ Prescriptions list and adverse outcomes, such as adverse drug reactions (ADRs)/adverse drug events (ADEs), hospitalization, and mortality. Methods: Specified databases were searched from inception to February 1, 2018. Two reviewers independently selected studies that met the inclusion criteria, assessed study quality, and extracted data. Data were pooled using Stata 12.0. The outcomes were ADRs/ADEs, hospitalization, and mortality. Results: A total of 33 studies met the inclusion criteria. The combined analysis revealed a statistically significant association between ADRs/hospitalizations and PIMs (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.33-1.56; OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.20-1.35), but no statistically significant association was found between mortality and PIMs (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.75-1.45). It is interesting to note that the results changed when different continents/criteria were used for the analysis. Compared with the elderly individuals exposed to 1 PIM, the risk of adverse health outcomes was much higher for those who took ≥2 PIMs. Conclusion and Relevance: We recommend that clinicians avoid prescribing PIMs for older adults whenever feasible. In addition, the observed associations should be generalized to other countries with different PIM criteria with caution.