bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-cost Volumetric Ultrasound by Augmentation of 2D Systems: Design and Prototype
Authors: Herickhoff Carl D. , Morgan Matthew R. , Broder Joshua S. , Dahl Jeremy J.
Published: November 2017

Conventional two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging is a powerful diagnostic tool in the hands of an experienced user, yet 2D ultrasound remains clinically underutilized and inherently incomplete, with output being very operator dependent. Volumetric ultrasound systems can more fully capture a three-dimensional (3D) region of interest, but current 3D systems require specialized transducers, are prohibitively expensive for many clinical departments, and do not register image orientation with respect to the patient; these systems are designed to provide improved workflow rather than operator independence. This work investigates whether it is possible to add volumetric 3D imaging capability to existing 2D ultrasound systems at minimal cost, providing a practical means of reducing operator dependence in ultrasound. In this paper, we present a low-cost method to make 2D ultrasound systems capable of quality volumetric image acquisition: we present the general system design and image acquisition method, including the use of a probe-mounted orientation sensor, a simple probe fixture prototype, and an offline volume reconstruction technique. We demonstrate initial results of the method, implemented using a Verasonics Vantage research scanner.
A Diagnostic Approach for Rodent Progressive Cardiomyopathy and Like Lesions in Toxicology Studies up to 28 Days in the Sprague Dawley Rat (Part 1 of 2)
Authors: Hailey James R. , Maleeff Beverly E. , Thomas Heath C. , Pearse Gail , Klapwijk Jan C. , Cristofori Patrizia G. , Berridge Brian , Kimbrough Carie L. , Parker George A. , Morton Daniel , Elmore Susan , Hardisty Jerry F. , Dybdal Noel O. , Rehagen David A. , Fikes James D. , Lamb Martin , Biddle Kathleen , Buetow Bernard S. , Carreira Vinicius , Nyska Abraham , Tripathi Niraj K. , Workman Heather C. , Bienvenu Jean-Guy , Brees Ingrid , Turk James R. , Adler Rick R.
Published: November 2017

Spontaneous rodent progressive cardiomyopathy (PCM) in the Sprague Dawley rat may confound identification and/or interpretation of potential test article (TA)-related cardiotoxicity. Pathologists apply diagnostic term(s) and thresholds for diagnosing and assigning severity grades for PCM and/or PCM-like (PCM/like) lesions consistently within a study, which is necessary to identify and interpret TA-related findings. Due to differences in training and/or experiences, diagnostic terms and thresholds may vary between pathologists. Harmonized terminology and thresholds across studies will generate better historical control data, will likely enhance interpretation of study data, and may further enhance our understanding of the spontaneous change. An assessment of the diagnostic approaches of a group of 37 pathologists identified an approach that is relatively easily applied; and if adopted, it could enhance diagnostic consistency across studies. This approach uses the single “slash” term “necrosis/inflammatory cell infiltrate (NICI)” as the diagnosis for the spectrum of lesions seen in younger rats, uses no threshold for diagnosis (e.g., diagnose all lesions clearly identifiable as PCM/like), and uses aggregate lesion size of approximately ≥45% of the field of view (FOV) using a 10×/22 eyepiece and the 40× objective or approximately ≥100% of the FOV using the 60× objective as the criterion separating minimal from mild severities.
Examining the achievement goal orientation levels of Turkish pre-service music teachers
Authors: Mentiş Köksoy Aylin , Aydıner Uygun Mehtap
Published: November 2017

Achievement goal orientation (AGO) might help music teacher candidates make their learning processes more effective by revealing how they are motivated towards the learning tasks. In this respect, the purpose of this study was to examine the levels of achievement goal orientation of pre-service music teachers according to eight variables. The participants of the study consisted of 1250 undergraduate students studying in the departments of music education during the academic year 2013–2014 in Turkey. The data were collected through an Information Form and the Achievement Goal Orientation Scale (AOS). The results of the study revealed that gender, grade level, students’ achievement level and willingness had small effects on students’ learning goal orientation. Practice time in music, students’ evaluation of their own achievement levels among their peers, the extent to which students found themselves skilled in music and pursuing another profession had a medium effect on learning goal orientation. Informing students about the achievement goal orientation and the effects of these goals on the teaching and learning process may help students with their achievement goal orientations towards the desired direction.
Huey P. Newton’s Intercommunalism: An Unacknowledged Theory of Empire
Authors: Narayan John
Published: November 2017

Huey P. Newton remains one the left’s intellectual enigmas. Although lauded for being the leader of the Black Panther Party, Newton is relatively unacknowledged as an intellectual. This article challenges the neglect of Newton’s thought by shedding light on his theory of empire, and the present-day value of returning to his thought. The article centres on how Newton’s critique of what he called ‘reactionary intercommunalism’ prefigures many of the elements found in the work of Hardt and Negri on empire. This comparison will be used to show how Newton not only foresaw elements of the rise of contemporary neoliberal globalization, but also offered an idea of political solidarity and revolutionary politics for such a context. The article concludes by highlighting how Newton’s ideas about the need for a war of position based on ‘survival pending revolution’ presents a more theoretically and empirically salient conceptualization of resistance than his successors.
Efficient removal of aqueous Pb(II) using partially reduced graphene oxide-Fe3O4
Authors: Guo Ting , Bulin Chaoke , Li Bo , Zhao Zhiwei , Yu Huitao , Sun He , Ge Xin , Xing Ruiguang , Zhang Bangwen
Published: November 2017

Partially reduced graphene oxide-Fe3O4 composite was prepared through in situ co-precipitation and used as an efficient adsorbent for removing Pb(II) from water. The composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectra, Fourier transformation infrared, Raman spectrometer, N2 adsorption–desorption, vibrating sample magnetometer, and zeta potential analyses. The impacts of pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and foreign substances on Pb(II) adsorption performance were investigated. The adsorption mechanism, kinetics, and thermodynamics were analyzed. The results indicate that Fe3O4 is homogeneously anchored inside the thin graphene sheets, with a particle size of 15–20 nm, resulting in a very low remanence and coercivity. The composite shows excellent and efficient adsorption performance toward aqueous Pb(II): adsorption equilibrium was reached in 10 min with the adsorption percent and quantity of 95.77% and 373.14 mgċg−1, respectively, under a condition of pH = 6, adsorbent dosage 250 mgċL−1, and Pb(II) initial concentration 97.68 mgċL−1, with the subsequent magnetic separation taking only 10 s. The adsorption performance is dependent on adsorbent dosage. A lower dosage favors a higher adsorption quantity, implying a strong adsorptive potential for partially reduced graphene oxide-Fe3O4. The adsorption quantity reached 777.28 mgċg−1, given the dosage 100 mgċL−1. The adsorption is monolayer chemisorption, the whole process of which is controlled by chemisorption and liquid film diffusion. In terms of thermodynamics, the adsorption is an exothermic and spontaneous process.
Thresholds for infarction vary between gray matter and white matter in acute ischemic stroke: A CT perfusion study
Authors: Chen Chushuang , Bivard Andrew , Lin Longting , Levi Christopher R , Spratt Neil J , Parsons Mark W
Published: November 2017

We aimed to investigate optimal perfusion thresholds defining ischemic core and penumbra for hemispheric-cortical gray matter (GM) and subcortical white matter (WM). A total of 65 sub-6 h ischemic stroke patients were assessed, who underwent acute computed tomography perfusion (CTP) and acute magnetic resonance imaging. CTP maps were generated by both standard singular value deconvolution (sSVD) and SVD with delay and dispersion correction (ddSVD). Analyses were undertaken to calculate sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) for each CTP threshold for core and penumbra in GM and WM. With sSVD, the core was best defined in GM by cerebral blood flow (CBF) < 30% (AUC: 0.73) and in WM by CBF < 20% (AUC: 0.67). With ddSVD, GM core was best defined by CBF < 35% (AUC: 0.75) and in WM by CBF < 25% (AUC: 0.68). A combined GM/WM threshold overestimated core compared to diffusion-weighted imaging, CBF < 25% from sSVD (1.88 ml, P = 0.007) and CBF < 30% from ddSVD (1.27 ml, P = 0.011). The perfusion lesion was best defined by Tmax > 5 s (AUC: 0.80) in GM and Tmax > 7 s (AUC: 0.75) in WM. With sSVD, a delay time (DT) > 3 s from ddSVD was the optimal for both GM (AUC: 0.78) and WM (AUC: 0.75). Using tissue-specific thresholds for GM/WM provides more accurate estimation of acute ischemic core.
Differences in Recumbent, Ecstatic Trance Postures in Terms of Dream Recall, Imagined Interactions, and Heart Rate
Authors: Honeycutt James M.
Published: November 2017

Research has demonstrated the health benefits of a wide range of spiritual practices such as meditation and prayer, and similar nonspiritual practices like mindfulness. Shamanism is a spiritual practice that uses dream recall during ecstatic trances, and scientific research has shown health benefits of dream recall. Researchers have long realized the importance of intrapersonal communication occurring in daydreams, called imagined interactions (IIs), and recently extended the theory to include night dreams. IIs serve six functions: rehearsal, relational maintenance, catharsis, conflict-linkage, self-understanding, and compensation. This study investigates the health effects of ecstatic posture on dream recall in conjunction with the functions of IIs. Results indicate that ecstatic posture while recalling dreams is associated with both heart rate and heart rate variability. However, the II function determines whether the effect is positive or negative.
Comparison of automated volumetry of the hippocampus using NeuroQuant® and visual assessment of the medial temporal lobe in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Persson Karin , Barca Maria Lage , Cavallin Lena , Brækhus Anne , Knapskog Anne-Brita , Selbæk Geir , Engedal Knut
Published: November 2017

Background

Different clinically feasible methods for evaluation of medial temporal lobe atrophy exists and are useful in diagnostic work-up of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic properties of two clinically available magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based methods—an automated volumetric software, NeuroQuant® (NQ) (evaluation of hippocampus volume) and the Scheltens scale (visual evaluation of medial temporal lobe atrophy [MTA])—in patients with AD dementia, and subjective and mild cognitive impairment (non-dementia).

Material and Methods

MRIs from 56 patients (31 AD, 25 non-dementia) were assessed with both methods. Correlations between the methods were calculated and receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses that yield area under the curve (AUC) statistics were conducted.

Results

High correlations were found between the two MRI assessments for the total hippocampal volume measured with NQ and mean MTA score (–0.753, P < 0.001), for the right (–0.767, P < 0.001), and for the left (–0.675, P < 0.001) sides. The NQ total measure yielded somewhat higher AUC (0.88, “good”) compared to the MTA mean measure (0.80, “good”) in the comparison of patients with AD and non-dementia, but the accuracy was in favor of the MTA scale.

Conclusion

The two methods correlated highly and both methods reached equally “good” power.
Continuous self-report engagement responses to the live performance of an atonal, post-serialist solo marimba work
Authors: Broughton Mary C. , Schubert Emery , Harvey Dominic G. , Stevens Catherine J.
Published: November 2017

Repetition of musical sections, tempo, and physical sound intensity associate strongly with listeners’ affective responses to tonal music in controlled laboratory studies. What contribution might repetition, temporal and acoustic variables make to observers’ responses where music lacks a diatonic tonal structure, an obvious beat, and is performed live? The present study investigates relationships between musical repetition (motivic cells and phrases), note density (sequentially occurring), and intensity with observers’ continuous self-report ratings of engagement with an unfamiliar, atonal post-serialist solo marimba work performed live. Following training, 19 audience members continuously self-reported engagement on a bi-polar, one-dimensional scale using the portable Audience Response Facility. Note density and intensity contributed significantly (or explained variance) to observer engagement with the performance. Contrary to expectation, the repetition variables did not contribute significantly. Controlling serial correlation using a new modelling approach based on Box–Jenkins ARIMA transfer modelling, density emerged as the prime contributor to observer engagement. A single performance appeared to provide observers with insufficient exposure to understand and respond to the structure of atonal music. Note density potentially enabled observers to segment the musical surface and develop some structural understanding, possibly underpinned by stimulus-driven entrainment processes shaping attentional behaviour and musical expectations.
Fetishistic concrete abstraction, social constitution and social domination in Henri Lefebvre’s writings on everyday life, cities and space
Authors: O’Kane Chris
Published: November 2017

This article reconstructs the role that fetishistic concrete abstraction plays in Henri Lefebvre’s writings on everyday life, cities and space. I begin by distinguishing between Lefebvre’s theories of alienation and romantic domination and fetishistic social domination. I then reconstruct the latter showing how Lefebvre interprets Marx’s critique of political economy as an account of the social constitution of the fetishistic concrete abstractions of economic social forms, which as supraindividual and autonomous entities invert to collectively dominate, but not entirely determine, the individuals within the social relations that collectively create them. Finally, I show how this conception of fetishistic concrete abstraction runs through Lefebvre’s work, where it serves as a ‘basis’ for his attempts to ‘elaborate, refine and complement’ Marx’s critique of political economy by conceiving how abstract social domination is constituted, embedded and resisted in everyday life, cities and space while also pointing out where it is amalgamated but not reduced to Lefebvre’s expansive theory of alienation and romantic domination. Consequently, rather than simply seeing Lefebvre as the ‘reigning prophet of alienation’ with an expansive transhistorical notion of alienation and romantic domination founded on a problematic opposition between quantity and quality, I show that Lefebvre’s work on everyday life, cities and space should also be seen as possessing a historically specific theory of abstract domination based on the critique of political economy.
The perspectives of application of thin-walled plastic and composite polymer shells in civil and industrial architecture
Authors: Krivoshapko Sergey N
Published: November 2017

The paper contains a brief historical review of application of thin-walled plastics and composite polymer shells in architecture. Concrete examples show the possibilities of using polymer composites as general (basic) elements of erections of industrial and civil purposes. Potential possibilities of polymer composite shells in architecture are illustrated with 23 pictures. It is shown that thin-walled plastic and composite polymer shells can be used in dwelling domes, spherical radio-parent hangars for radars, large-span covers over markets and exhibitions, high-mountain inns, semi-transparent semi-spherical inns for tourists, transparent sky-lights on the roofs of industrial buildings, and temporary summer cafes. Pneumatic and tent erections made of synthetic materials are not examined in the paper. They are under consideration in other paper of the author. Brief information and the latest references presented in the paper on existing methods of strength analysis of composite thin-walled shells will help to plan the subsequent researches of considered structures. This paper would be useful for researchers who want to begin to work with polymer composite thin-walled structures, for lecturers giving a course of studies on ‘composites in architecture’, and for architects.
Abrasive water jet machining of fiber-reinforced composite materials
Authors: Vigneshwaran S , Uthayakumar M , Arumugaprabu V
Published: November 2017

Composite materials have taken an imperative place in the material system because of their unique performance in various specialized applications. Fiber inclusion and the heterogeneous property of composites make it more difficult to machine with the conventional machining process. However, several nonconventional methods have been adopted for machining composites, in which abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) was proven to be more effective and a preferable technique in machining of fiber-reinforced composite material. This review article is intended to highlight and categorize the machining performance of the fiber-reinforced composites on machining with AWJM process.
Sumoylation Contributes to Timekeeping and Temperature Compensation of the Plant Circadian Clock
Authors: Hansen Louise L. , van den Burg Harrold A. , van Ooijen Gerben
Published: November 2017

The transcriptional circadian clock network is tuned into a 24-h oscillator by numerous posttranslational modifications on the proteins encoded by clock genes, differentially influencing their subcellular localization or activity. Clock proteins in any circadian organism are subject to posttranslational regulation, and many of the key enzymes, notably kinases and phosphatases, are functionally conserved between the clocks of mammals, fungi, and plants. We now establish sumoylation, the posttranslational modification of target proteins by the covalent attachment of the small ubiquitin-like modifier protein SUMO, as a novel mechanism regulating key clock properties in the model plant Arabidopsis. Using 2 different approaches, we show that mutant plant lines with decreased or increased levels of global sumoylation exhibit shortened or lengthened circadian period, respectively. One known functional role of sumoylation is to protect the proteome from temperature stress. The circadian clock is characterized by temperature compensation, meaning that proper timekeeping is ensured over the full range of physiologically relevant temperatures. Interestingly, we observed that the period defects in sumoylation mutant plants are strongly differential across temperature. Increased global sumoylation leads to undercompensation of the clock against temperature and decreased sumoylation to overcompensation, implying that sumoylation buffers the plant clock system against differential ambient temperature.
Clarity or collaboration: Balancing competing aims in bureaucratic design
Authors: Carrigan Christopher
Published: November 2017

Following the Gulf oil spill and US housing meltdown, policy-makers revamped the associated administrative infrastructure in an effort to sharpen each agency’s focus, based on the perspective that asking an organization to fulfill competing missions undermines performance. Using a formal model, I demonstrate that priority goal ambiguity introduced when an agency balances multiple roles does have detrimental effects. Yet, assigning competing missions to one organization can be better than separating them, as the underlying tasks supporting the goals may require coordination. In fact, it is precisely when ambiguity becomes more debilitating that the importance of coordination intensifies. Moreover, if the bureau is misinformed about which goals are more valued politically, fostering uncertainty in agencies charged with multiple goals can even be beneficial. The article thus describes how such organizations function and why these arrangements persist, demonstrating that structural choices impact behavior even when agencies and overseers agree on policy objectives.
An experimental investigation of micro-milling brass considering run out by carbide micro-end mills
Authors: Jing Xiubing , Tian Yanling , Yuan Yanjie
Published: November 2017

This paper presented the effect of run out on the experimental characteristic of micro-milling brass using carbide micro-end mills. A method of calculation and measurement for the run out of tool-holder-spindle assembly in micro-end mill was developed. A series of micro-milling process experiments were carried out under varying cutting parameters. The effect of run out on cutting forces, effect of cutting parameters on surface roughness, and size effect were analyzed. It was seen that the cutting force signature was seriously affected by run out in the micro-milling process. When the feed per tooth is less than the run out, the cutting force signals showed that only one cutter flute engaged in cutting process due to the effect of run out. It was also seen that the cutting force signature showed erratic variations due to the effect of tool–workpiece and the run out of tool tip at higher spindle speed. Surface roughness was affected by both cutting speed and feed per tooth. For lower cutting speed, there was increase in the surface roughness with the decrease in the cutting speed due to the effect of built-up edge. For higher cutting speed, there was increase in the surface roughness with the increase in the cutting speed due to dominance of the shearing effects. When the feed per tooth was less than the minimum chip thickness, due to the indentation and ploughing-dominated process, nonlinear increase of specific shear energy can be obtained. At lower feed per tooth, the specific energy increases with increased cutting speed. These results are used to provide strategies to optimize cutting parameters and achieve better surface quality in micro-milling brass process.
Activation of the molecular and functional effects of Nrf2 against chronic iron oxide nanorod overload-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Elgharabawy RM , Elgharbawy DM , Emara AM
Published: November 2017

Reactive oxygen species have a significant role in the pathogenesis of iron oxide nanorod (IONR) overload-induced organ toxicity in some organs such as the lungs. Green tea induces upregulation of phase II antioxidant enzymes that are transcriptionally organized by the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) that when activated antagonize the oxidative stress induced by IONR overload that causes cardiotoxicity. The aim of the present study was to determine whether treatment of cardiotoxicity with iron chelators (deferiprone (DFP) or deferoxamine (DFO)) alone or in combination with phytochemical activation of Nrf2 (green tea) can protect cardiomyocytes from IONR overload-induced cardiotoxicity. One hundred five rats were distributed into seven groups: two control groups (non-IONR-overloaded and IONR-overloaded) and five IONR-overloaded groups such as a green tea group, DFP group, DFP combined with green tea group, DFO group, and DFO combined with green tea. Blood samples and cardiac tissues were obtained for estimation of total iron-binding capacity, ratio of myocardial 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine/myocardial 2-deoxyguanosine, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, glutathione (GSH) contents, and histopathological examination. The results showed mild histopathological changes in the heart and a significant decrease in all biochemical parameters, except for myocardial GSH, in the DFP group. The addition of green tea improved the biochemical and histopathological results compared with chelators alone.
An exploration into the information-seeking behaviours of engineers and scientists
Authors: Wellings Susan , Casselden Biddy
Published: November 2017

This article considers findings from Master’s research that investigated the information-seeking behaviours of engineers and scientists in the workplace. The objectives of this research were to establish where engineers and scientists look for information, consider their search preferences and determine the understanding they have of online search engine operation. There is limited current research in these areas looking at engineers and scientists in the workplace. The research was undertaken using a mixed methods research methodology. A survey was conducted with engineers and scientists working in the UK, using an online questionnaire and interviews to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Due to the small sample size (115: 58 engineers, 57 scientists) this research does not make generalisations about the wider population. The research showed both similarities and differences between engineers’ and scientists’ information-seeking behaviours. The most popular resources used by both engineers and scientists were online search engines, specialist databases and scholar search engines; and the most used sources were from within their own organisation (colleagues and documents). Electronic versions of sources were preferred over print because of their searchability; however, when an item was found it was often printed out to read. Although the main focus of this research was not information literacy it is suggested that there are significant gaps in the understanding of search engine functionality by both engineers and scientists, even though it is the most heavily used resource for information seeking. Whilst this research does not make generalisations about the wider engineer and scientist populations, potential implications for information professionals working with these groups are considered.
Understanding academic reading behavior of Arab postgraduate students
Authors: Shehata Ahmed Maher Khafaga
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this paper is to report the findings of a study to investigate academic reading behavior among a group of Arab postgraduate students in social science disciplines. The paper also explores the difference between reading strategies used with Arabic and English text. The study deployed a qualitative research approach. A sample of 33 participants was interviewed to elucidate the reading behavior of the Arabic language speakers. The analysis of the interviews revealed that the participants use various reading strategies to familiarize themselves with the Arabic and the English scholarly content. The data showed that there is a need to train Arab postgraduates on academic reading skills. The results also indicate that reading the English text represents a challenge for the social sciences and humanities Arab postgraduates. This study was conducted on social science and humanities postgraduates. The reading behavior of science disciplines may differ as the teaching language is mainly in English. This study contributes to the field by expanding our understanding of how non-English language speakers read and comprehend the academic text. The value of the current study lies in being the first study that explores Arab postgraduate students’ reading behavior.
Enhancing the professional dignity of midwives: A phenomenological study
Authors: Froneman Christelle , Wyk Neltjie C van , Mogale Ramadimetja S
Published: November 2017

Background:

When midwives are not treated with respect and their professional competencies are not recognised, their professional dignity is violated.

Objective:

This study explored and described how the professional dignity of midwives in the selected hospital can be enhanced based on their experiences.

Research design:

A descriptive phenomenological research design was used with in-depth interviews conducted with 15 purposely selected midwives.

Ethical considerations:

The Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee of the University of Pretoria approved the study. The research was conducted in an academic tertiary hospital with voluntary participants.

Findings:

To dignify midwives it is essential to enhance the following: ‘to acknowledge the capabilities of midwives’, ‘to appreciate interventions of midwives’, ‘to perceive midwives as equal health team members’, ‘to invest in midwives’, ‘to enhance collegiality’, ‘to be cared for by management’ and ‘to create conducive environments’.

Conclusion:

The professional dignity of midwives is determined by their own perspectives of the contribution that they make to the optimal care of patients, the respect that they get from others and the support that hospital management gives them. With support and care, midwives’ professional dignity is enhanced. Midwives will strive to render excellent services as well as increasing their commitment.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Interpersonal Violence in People Dying From Suicide in Victoria, Australia
Authors: MacIsaac Michael B , Bugeja Lyndal , Weiland Tracey , Dwyer Jeremy , Selvakumar Kav , Jelinek George A
Published: November 2017

Victims of interpersonal violence are known to be at increased risk of suicidal ideation and attempts; however, few data exist on the impact that violence has on the risk of death from suicide. This study examined 2153 suicides (1636 males and 517 females) occurring between 2009 and 2012. Information was sourced from the Coroners Court of Victoria’s Suicide Register, a detailed database containing information on all Victorian suicides. Forty-two percent of women who died from suicide had a history of exposure to interpersonal violence, with 23% having been a victim of physical violence, 18% suffering psychological violence, and 16% experiencing sexual abuse. A large number of men who died from suicide had also been exposed to interpersonal violence, many of whom had perpetrated violence within the 6 weeks prior to their death. Targeted prevention, particularly removing barriers for men to seek help early after perpetrating violence is likely to have benefits in preventing suicide in both men and women.
Training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation provided by medical students, residents and specialists: A non-inferiority trial
Authors: Dîrzu Dan Sebastian , Hagău Natalia , Boț Theodor , Fărcaș Loredana , Copotoiu Sanda Maria
Published: November 2017

Introduction:

No definitive answer has been given to the question ‘who should teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation?’ Healthcare professionals and high school teachers are mostly the trainers, but medical students are increasingly being used for this purpose.

Methods:

We divided 296 high school students in three groups based on trainer professional level. Medical students, anaesthesia and intensive care residents, and anaesthesia and intensive care specialists provided basic life support training. We tested their theoretical knowledge with the help of a multiple-choice question questionnaire and practical abilities with the help of a medical simulator, recording chest compression frequency as the primary outcome parameter.

Results:

The study shows comparable results in all groups, with the exception of the chest compression frequency which was higher in the students’ and residents’ groups (students: 134.7/min ± 14.1; residents: 137.9/min ± 15.9; specialists: 126.3/min ± 19.3). Increased rates were not associated with lower depths (39.0 mm ± 8.2, 40.5 mm ± 9.7, and 38.1 mm ± 8.2), so the quality of compressions provided may be seen as equivalent in all the study groups.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that medical students may be as effective as anaesthesia and intensive care specialists and residents in cardiopulmonary resuscitation training.
Continuing the Cold War tradition and suppressing contemporary dissent
Authors: Heath Mary
Published: November 2017

The Defence Special Undertakings Act 1952 (Cth) is a draconian piece of Cold War legislation originally passed to provide security for British atomic testing in Australia. There are only two known prosecutions under the Act, both involving Christian pacifists entering the Pine Gap prohibited area. In 2007, the first ever convictions under the Act were overturned on appeal. A second prosecution has now commenced. This article considers the history and context of the current prosecutions and contends that the Act is being used to suppress contemporary dissent in a period in which the Australian government already faces criticism of its treatment of the right to protest.
Rethinking resettlement and family reunion in Australia
Authors: Okhovat Sahar , Hirsch Asher , Hoang Khanh , Dowd Rebecca
Published: November 2017

Family reunion remains a significant issue for refugee communities in Australia. Family separation causes significant psychological, social and economic harm to displaced communities. Instead of supporting the reunion of refugee families, the current law and policies make it increasingly difficult, if not impossible, for refugees to bring their family members to Australia. This article outlines the barriers to family reunion for refugees under Australian law and policy and addresses how such policies could be reformed to better facilitate reunification.
The relevance of the United Nations Mandela Rules for Australian prisons
Authors: Mackay Anita
Published: November 2017

In 2015, the United Nations updated the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners and named them the Mandela Rules. The Standard Guidelines for Corrections in Australia were based on the previous version of the Rules. This article outlines Australia’s non-compliance with the rules and need to update the Guidelines in five areas: (1) imprisoning people with cognitive disabilities who have not been convicted, (2) solitary confinement, (3) bodily searches, (4) use of restraints, and (5) provision of equivalent medical treatment.
Technology-based legal document generation services and the regulation of legal practice in Australia
Authors: Beames Emma
Published: November 2017

This article examines, in the Australian context, the status of technology-based legal document generation services provided directly to the public, where the service provider is not a lawyer or law practice. A brief overview of how legal practice is regulated, what legal practice is and who can engage in it under Australian law is provided to consider the circumstances where this type of service may amount to the unauthorised practice of law.
Active Stromal Cell–Derived Factor 1α and Endothelial Progenitor Cells are Equally Increased by Alogliptin in Good and Poor Diabetes Control
Authors: Negro Roberto , Greco Eupremio Luigi , Greco Giacomo
Published: November 2017

Background:

It is postulated that the ability of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4-i) to increase circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) may be at least partly mediated by active stromal cell–derived factor 1α (SDF-1α) (a pivotal mediator of stem cell mobilization from the bone marrow). As other DPP-4-i were demonstrated to increase EPC concentrations, in this study, we sought to investigate the ability of the DPP-4-i alogliptin in modifying EPCs and SDF-1α, in patients with good and poor diabetes control.

Methods:

Two groups of diabetic patients on metformin were divided by hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): Group A—those with HbA1c ≤6.5% (28 patients) and Group B—those with HbA1c 7.5% to 8.5% (31 patients). Both groups received alogliptin 25 mg/daily for 4 months. At baseline and 4 months later, clinical, laboratory parameters, EPCs, and active SDF-1α were determined.

Results:

After 4-month treatment with alogliptin, either Group A or Group B showed reduced HbA1c levels and concomitant similar increase in EPCs and active SDF-1α.

Conclusions:

Alogliptin showed significant benefits in increasing EPCs and active SDF-1α either in good or poor diabetes control. The study demonstrated that similar to other DPP-4-i, also alogliptin is able to increase EPC concentrations, suggesting the existence of a class effect mediated by SDF-1α. The extent of increase in EPCs is independent from baseline diabetes control.
Investigation of different piston ring curvatures on lubricant transport along cylinder liner in large two-stroke marine diesel engines
Authors: Overgaard H , Klit P , Vølund A
Published: November 2017

A theoretical investigation of the hydrodynamic lubrication of the top compression piston ring in a large two-stroke marine diesel engine is presented. The groove mounted piston ring is driven by the reciprocal motion of the piston. The ring shape follows a circular geometry and the effect of changes in radii is analysed. A numerical model based on the finite difference method in 1D has been developed for solving Reynolds equation in combination with the load equilibrium equation together with flow continuity between the piston ring surface and liner for analysis of the lubricant transport. The cyclic variation throughout one stroke is presented for the minimum film thicknesses at different interesting locations of the piston ring surface together with the friction and the pressure distribution history. The aforementioned parameters have been investigated numerically. The numerical results are presented and discussed.
Friction behavior of waxy oil deposit removal using polymeric bristled brushes
Authors: Zhang Hang , Lan Zhicheng , Liu Shuhai , Xiao Huaping
Published: November 2017

Pigging is the most effective and common way to remove the wax deposits in pipelines. The discs, cups, or brushes of a pig are executing components for waxy oil deposit removal. In this study, a homemade experiment setup was built and employed to conduct the waxy oil deposit removal experiments with various wax concentration at different scraping speeds using polymeric bristled brushes. An explanation model was established to analyze the formation of waxy oil deposit chips. The entire removal processes were captured and the resistant friction forces were measured during the experiments. Our results show that there are three stages in the scraping process: (a) brush deforming; (b) steady scraping; (c) brush leaving; In the scraping stage, the frictional resistant force was found to decrease as the scraping speed increases. The frictional resistant force increases as the wax concentration increases. There is obvious stick-slip phenomenon in the steady scraping process. The wax concentration influences the shape of the chips. The shape of the high wax concentration deposit chips is saw-toothed.
Imaging patterns of gray and white matter abnormalities associated with PASAT and SDMT performance in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Riccitelli Gianna C , Pagani Elisabetta , Rodegher Mariaemma , Colombo Bruno , Preziosa Paolo , Falini Andrea , Comi Giancarlo , Filippi Massimo , Rocca Maria A
Published: November 2017

Objectives:

To map the regional patterns of white matter (WM) microstructural abnormalities and gray matter (GM) atrophy exclusively associated with reduced performance in the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) in relapsing-remitting (RR) multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Methods:

In all, 177 RRMS patients and 80 healthy controls (HC) were studied. WM microstructural abnormalities were investigated on diffusion tensor images using tract-based spatial statistics analysis, and regional GM atrophy was estimated on three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted images using voxel-based morphometry.

Results:

Compared to HC, RRMS patients showed the expected pattern of cortical–subcortical GM atrophy and WM microstructural abnormalities. In patients, diffusivity abnormalities of supratentorial WM tracts correlated with both SDMT and PASAT scores. Lower SDMT performance was also associated with WM damage in several infratentorial WM tracts. Lower SDMT scores correlated with atrophy of the right anterior cingulate cortex, left postcentral gyrus, and right middle temporal gyrus, whereas lower PASAT scores correlated with atrophy of the deep GM nuclei, bilaterally, and several fronto-temporo-occipital regions.

Conclusion:

In RRMS patients, regional damage of different neural systems helps explaining reduced performance in SDMT and PASAT. WM microstructural damage typified reduced SDMT performance, whereas atrophy of several GM regions distinguished reduced PASAT performance.
Impact of coping strategies on perceived stress, depression, and cortisol profiles among gynecologic cancer patients
Authors: Siwik Chelsea , Hicks Allison , Phillips Kala , Rebholz Whitney N , Zimmaro Lauren A , Weissbecker Inka , Cash Elizabeth , Sephton Sandra E
Published: November 2017

We explored associations between problem-focused, emotional processing, and emotional expression coping strategies and markers of stress including perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and diurnal cortisol profiles among women with gynecologic cancer. Problem-focused coping was associated with less perceived stress, fewer depressive symptoms, and more rhythmic diurnal salivary cortisol profiles. Emotional processing was associated with lower perceived stress and fewer depressive symptoms. Emotional expression was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and elevated diurnal mean and evening cortisol levels. Results point to key differences in coping strategies. In this sample, only problem-focused coping was linked with adaptive differences in both psychological and physiological stress measures.
Gay, bisexual, and queer trans men navigating sexual fields
Authors: Scheim Ayden I , Adam Barry D , Marshall Zack
Published: November 2017

Drawing on interviews with 40 gay, bisexual, and queer trans men in Ontario, Canada, we describe understandings of, and strategies for affective and behavioral negotiation within virtual and physical sexual fields in which they might find male sexual partners. Participants drew sharp distinctions between gay and queer sexual fields. Specific websites for seeking sex also emerged as important fields with their own internal logics. Sexual field choice was heavily impacted by social and medical gender affirmation. Participant narratives highlighted the interplay of personal and socio-historical transitions—including accessing medical transition technologies, the rise of virtual sexual fields, and increasing trans male visibility—in producing rapidly changing sexual opportunity structures. Comfort and success navigating extant sexual fields varied, with many reporting some degree of satisficing to balance the potentials for pleasure and risk.
Seasonal variation of cancer mortality in Hungary between 1984 and 2013
Authors: Virág Katalin , Nyári Tibor András
Published: November 2017

Aims: Despite decreasing trends, Hungary is the leader in cancer mortality among European countries. We examined the seasonal variation of cancer mortality in Hungary between 1984 and 2013. Methods: Hungarian monthly cancer mortality and population data were used in the analysis. The Walter–Elwood method was used to determine seasonal variation in both mortality rates and proportionate mortality. Results: Significant winter-peak seasonality was found in all-cancer mortality. A similar seasonal trend with a peak from November to January was observed in death rates from colorectal, lung, female breast, prostate, bladder, brain, lymphoid and hematopoietic cancers. However, no more cyclical variation was identified in the mortality rates from other cancers. In addition, significant seasonal variation in proportionate mortality was shown for all cancer sites examined, with a peak in August or September. Conclusions: This study presents the seasonality pattern of different types of cancer mortality which might be related to environmental factors (e.g. infections).
Quantitative EEG Parameters for Prediction of Outcome in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Development Study
Authors: Tolonen Antti , Särkelä Mika O. K. , Takala Riikka S. K. , Katila Ari , Frantzén Janek , Posti Jussi P. , Müller Markus , van Gils Mark , Tenovuo Olli
Published: November 2017

Monitoring of quantitative EEG (QEEG) parameters in the intensive care unit (ICU) can aid in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients by complementing visual EEG review done by an expert. We performed an explorative study investigating the prognostic value of 59 QEEG parameters in predicting the outcome of patients with severe TBI. Continuous EEG recordings were done on 28 patients with severe TBI in the ICU of Turku University Hospital. We computed a set of QEEG parameters for each patient, and correlated these to patient outcome, measured by dichotomized Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at a follow-up visit between 6 and 12 months, using area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) as a nonlinear correlation measure. For 17 of the 59 QEEG parameters (28.8%), the AUC differed significantly from 0.5, most of these parameters measured EEG power or variability. The best QEEG parameters for outcome prediction were alpha power (AUC = 0.87, P < .01) and variability of the relative fast theta power (AUC = 0.84, P < .01). The results of this study indicate that QEEG parameters provide useful information for predicting outcome in severe TBI. Novel QEEG parameters with potential in outcome prediction were found, the prognostic value of these parameters should be confirmed in later studies. The results also provide further evidence of the usefulness of parameters studied in preexisting studies.
The economic evidence for advanced imaging in the diagnosis of suspected scaphoid fractures: systematic review of evidence
Authors: Rua Tiago , Parkin David , Goh Vicky , McCrone Paul , Gidwani Sam
Published: November 2017

Given the limitations of conventional radiography in the diagnosis of suspected scaphoid fractures on presentation, advanced imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging, is a useful additional investigation. We carried out a systematic review of the economic evidence for the use of advanced imaging in the management of suspected scaphoid fractures. Fifteen articles were included in the review. Owing to the heterogeneity of study designs, the type and timing of interventions and the economic analyses performed, direct comparisons between the 15 studies were difficult. From a health care perspective, little could be concluded regarding the economic implications of the use of advanced imaging in clinical practice. However, from a societal perspective, the evidence favours the use of advanced imaging in the management of suspected scaphoid fractures as it does appear to lead to overall cost-savings.