bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grief as a normative phenomenon: The diffuse and ambivalent normativity of infant loss and parental grieving in contemporary Western culture
Authors: Kofod Ester Holte , Brinkmann Svend
Published: February 2017

Grief is often conceived in causal or reactive terms, as something that simply strikes people after a loss. But, on closer scrutiny, there are good reasons to think of grief as a normative phenomenon, which is done or enacted by people, relative to cultural norms. To substantiate the claim that grief should be thought of as normative, we draw upon empirical examples from a qualitative interview study with bereaved parents following infant loss, and analyze how grieving the loss of a small child in our culture is experienced, interpreted, and enacted within a diffuse and ambivalent, yet inescapable, moral framework. Further, we discuss some of the possible consequences for bereaved individuals when navigating the normative landscape of grieving in contemporary Western cultures: A landscape in which suffering is increasingly dealt with in psychiatric and medical terms and understood as an adverse and unnecessary condition to be overcome in order to maximize personal health, happiness, and well-being.
Cross-sectional study of the differences between measured, perceived and desired body size and their relations with self-perceived health in young adults: The Tromsø Study – Fit Futures 2
Authors: Sand Anne-Sofie , Furberg Anne-Sofie , Lian Olaug S. , Nielsen Christopher S. , Pettersen Gunn , Winther Anne , Emaus Nina
Published: February 2017

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between measured body size (body mass index (BMI)), perceived body size, weight change wishes and self-perceived health in young adults. Methods: The participants were recruited from a school-based population study in Norway, the Tromsø Study: Fit Futures 2, carried out in 2012–2013. A total of 629 young women and men (aged 18–23 years) reported on the main variables. The data were collected through weight and height measurements and questionnaires. The analyses were performed with descriptive statistics, the χ2 test and Student’s t-test. Results: A total of 20% of the women and 28% of the men were overweight or obese. There were considerable discrepancies between the measured BMI and perceived body size in both sexes. A substantial number of participants wanted to change their weight. Among the 174 women who reported that they were trying to lose weight, as many as 57 (32.8%) had a low normal weight (BMI 18.5–21.9 kg/m2). Correspondingly, among the 66 men who reported that they wanted to gain weight, as many as 19 (28.8%) had a high normal weight (BMI 22–24.9 kg/m2). We found no relation between body size perceptions, weight change wishes and self-perceived health. Conclusions: Discrepancies between measured and perceived body size and weight change wishes are common findings in young adults. The lack of relation with self-perceived health found in our study is surprising and not easy to interpret. To gain more knowledge about these matters, further research, including both qualitative and quantitative studies, is needed.
Ventilation strategy for random pollutant releasing from rubber vulcanization process
Authors: Cao Changsheng , Gao Jun , Hou Yumei , Chen Jie
Published: February 2017

This paper investigates the emission characteristic of a rubber vulcanization process in a workshop and tries to formulate a ventilation strategy for the rubber vulcanization production process with a lower exhaust rate. Measurements were performed to derive detailed source emission characteristic of rubber vulcanization process in a rubber workshop. The measurement results show that the primary source emission process was concentrated within 600 s of a vulcanization process, the corresponding cumulative emission percentage reached up to 95%. Based on random pollutant releasing from rubber vulcanization process, a single local exhaust hood was applied for a curing machine, the corresponding exhaust rate of 4000 m3/h was proven to be reliable for capturing rubber fume by the experimental and numerical methods. The corresponding cumulative capture efficiency of the single local exhaust hood was 92.1% at 600 s. A new ventilation system equipped with single local exhaust hood was further designed for the rubber vulcanization production process line, and the total exhaust rate of this system was only a quarter of the original one used in a large exhaust hood system. These findings have illustrated that the new ventilation system equipped with single local exhaust hood could largely reduce the exhaust rate in a rubber vulcanization workshop.
Does hype create irreversibilities? Affective circulation and market investments in digital health
Authors: Geiger Susi , Gross Nicole
Published: February 2017

This article draws from two conceptual lenses – the sociology of expectations and market studies – to investigate the relationship between technology hype and market investments: which promises and expectations surround hype and how they come together to shape actors’ investments in an emerging market. We address this question through analysing a contemporary hype in a technology marketing context: digital healthcare. Our aim is to trace how market actors create, support and evaluate a market hype; how hype and market investments are related; and whether hype contributes to irreversibilities in shaping emerging market forms and categories. Our study indicates that hypes contribute tangibly to producing the market, not least by channelling financial, symbolic and material market investments. Furthermore, by highlighting how socio-economic, technological and policy promises become affectively loaded through circulation, we add a novel dimension to existing insights into the socio-cognitive construction of markets. We caution technology marketers, policymakers and investors against blindly following technology hype, especially when it encourages companies to engage in market investment that is unhinged from broader systems and societal, ethical or economic concerns.
Technology-based tools and services for people with dementia and carers: Mapping technology onto the dementia care pathway
Authors: Lorenz Klara , Freddolino Paul P , Comas-Herrera Adelina , Knapp Martin , Damant Jacqueline
Published: February 2017

The extent to which technology may be able to support people with dementia and their carers along the care pathway and in different care settings is of interest to policy makers and governments. In this paper we provide an overview of the role of technology in dementia care, treatment and support by mapping existing technologies – by function, target user and disease progression. Technologies identified are classified into seven functions: memory support, treatment, safety and security, training, care delivery, social interaction and other. Different groups of potential users are distinguished: people with mild cognitive impairment and early stages of dementia, people with moderate to severe dementia and unpaid carers and health- and social care professionals. We also identified the care settings, in which the technologies are used (or for which the technologies are developed): at home in the community and in institutional care settings. The evidence has been drawn from a rapid review of the literature, expert interviews and web and social media searches. The largest number of technologies identified aim to enhance the safety and security of people with dementia living in the community. These devices are often passive monitors, such as smoke detectors. Other safety interventions, such as panic buttons, require active intervention. The second largest number of interventions aims to enhance people’s memory and includes global positioning systems devices and voice prompts. These technologies mostly target people in the early stages of dementia. A third group focusing on treatment and care delivery emerged from the literature. These interventions focus on technology-aided reminiscence or therapeutic aspects of care for people with dementia and their carers. While the review found a range of technologies available for people with dementia and carers there is very little evidence of widespread practical application. Instead, it appears that stakeholders frequently rely on everyday technologies re-purposed to meet their needs.
An ordinary life: People with dementia living in a residential setting
Authors: Brannelly Tula , Gilmour Jean A , O’Reilly Heidi , Leighton Mary , Woodford Allana
Published: February 2017

The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of care support workers and family members of the impact of a new care approach in a specialised unit as it shifted from a clinical to an inclusive model, focused on creating an ordinary life for people with dementia and their families. The research was a partnership between the unit staff and university researchers. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected in focus groups with 11 family members and nine staff members. Thematic analysis identified the themes personalised care for people with dementia, family involvement – continuing to care, and staff competence and confidence to care. A personalised approach to supporting people with dementia was considered paramount, communicative family–staff relationships enhanced the social environment, and competence enhanced confidence and quality care. Participants identified positive ways of working that benefited staff and families and they reported increased well-being for the people with dementia on the unit. Developing well-articulated and systematically implemented local models of care provides opportunities for family and staff creativity and engagement, enhancing care for people with dementia. Strong and effective leadership is required to enable these approaches to become a reality.
Investigations in robotic-assisted design: Strategies for symbiotic agencies in material-directed generative design processes
Authors: Nahmad Vazquez Alicia , Jabi Wassim
Published: February 2017

The research described in this article utilises a phase-changing material, three-dimensional scanning technologies and a six-axis industrial robotic arms as vehicles to enable a novel framework where robotic technology is utilised as an ‘amplifier’ of the design process to realise geometries that derive from both constructive visions and architectural visions through iterative feedback loops between them. The robot in this scenario is not a fabrication tool but the enabler of an environment where the material, robotic and human agencies interact. This article describes the exploratory research for the development of a dialogic design process, sets the framework for its implementation, carries out an evaluation based on designer use and concludes with a set of observations. One of the main findings of this article is that a deeper collaboration that acknowledges the potential of these tools, in a learning-by-design method, can lead to new choreographies for architectural design and fabrication.
Ginsenoside Rg1 improves fertility and reduces ovarian pathological damages in premature ovarian failure model of mice
Authors: He Lianli , Ling Li , Wei Tianqin , Wang Yaping , Xiong Zhengai
Published: February 2017

This study aims to investigate the effect as well as mechanism of ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) on premature ovarian failure (POF) induced by d-galactose (d-gal) in mice. C57BL/6 female mice were divided into four groups randomly, which were the saline group, the d-gal group, the d-gal + Rg1 group, and the Rg1 group. Body weight was recorded. Overall ovarian function including estrous cycles, sex hormone secretion, ovarian follicle development, and ovarian morphology was analyzed by H&E staining and ELISA. Effect of Rg1 on aging was determined by analyzing the activities of oxidation-associated biomarkers, pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, expression of senescence-associated proteins, and fertility. Compared with the d-gal group, in Rg1 + d-gal group, body weight was increased significantly, estrous cycle block was released, and fertility and the morphology of ovaries were restored. And, Rg1 treatment after d-gal administration significantly reduced senescence-associated protein expression, increased the activity of total superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase from bovine erythrocyte, and induced higher follicle stimulating hormone receptor protein expression. Additionally, the expression levels of malondialdehyde, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 were significantly decreased. Together, Rg1 improves mouse fertility and reduces ovarian pathological damage in d-gal-induced POF model possibly through enhancing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities and reducing expression of senescence signal pathway proteins.

Impact statement

Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) is a kind of natural estrogen and it has antioxidation and antiaging effects. However, whether Rg1 has effects on premature ovarian failure (POF) is still not clear. In this study, aging model induced by d-galactose was used to mimic POF. The effect and possible mechanism of Rg1 on ovary aging was investigated. We found that Rg1 treatment up-regulated the expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor and down-regulated senescence-associated protein expression in granule cells of POF mice. Particularly, Rg1 improved fertility ability and reduced ovarian pathological damages by its antioxidative and anti-inflammation capacity. Thus, Rg1 enhances the antiaging ability of ovary and fertility ability of POF mice through enhancing the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of ovary.
Liver Hemostasis by Using Cold Plasma
Authors: Aleinik Alexander , Baikov Alexander , Dambaev Georgiy , Semichev Evgeniy , Bushlanov Pavel
Published: February 2017

Surgical resection is associated with blood loss and bacterial infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cold plasma treatment during liver resection. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were divided randomly into 2 groups. Group I was the control group—intact animals (5 in total). The second group (25 in total)—experimental animals—had atypical resection of the left lobe of the liver with subsequent coagulation by “nonequilibrium” plasma. Histological tissue samples, biochemical blood indices, and hemocoagulation parameters were investigated on 3, 5, 7, 14, and 30 days after plasma treatment. The sterilization test was made to investigate the plasma bactericidal effects. Cessation of bleeding took less than 1 minute. Blood loss was negligible. Morphometric analysis of the liver revealed increased number of hepatocytes with signs of dystrophy after surgical intervention, which returned to the baseline values after 30 days. Biochemical blood parameters revealed significant differences in the groups only in terms of glucose ( P < .05); other parameters remained unchanged. High sterilization efficiency of cold plasma is confirmed. These results demonstrate the high efficiency of cold plasma treatment during surgical interventions.
A contemporary evaluation of carotid endarterectomy outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease in the United States
Authors: Patel Amit R , Dombrovskiy Viktor Y , Vogel Todd R
Published: February 2017

Objectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been identified as a significant risk factor for poor post-surgical outcomes. This study was designed to provide a contemporary analysis of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) outcomes in patients with CKD, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and normal renal function (NF).

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample data 2006–2012 was queried to select patients aging 40 years old and above who underwent CEA during two days after admission and had a diagnosis of ESRD on long-term hemodialysis, patients with non-dialysis-dependent CKD, or NF. Patients with acute renal failure were excluded. We subsequently compared procedure outcomes and hospital resource utilization in these patients.

Results

Totally 573,723 CEA procedures were estimated: 4801 (ESRD)‚ 32,988 (CKD)‚ and 535,934 (NF). Mean age was 71.0 years, 57.7% were males, and 73.7% were white. Overall hospital mortality was 0.20%: 0.69% (ESRD), 0.35% (CKD), and 0.19% (NF), p < 0.0005 between groups. The overall stroke rate was 1.6%: 1.8% (ESRD), 2.0% (CKD), and 1.6% (NF). Comparing NF to CKD there was a significant difference: p < 0.0001. For CKD patients, compared to NF patients, there was an increased risk in cardiac complications (odds ratio = 1.2; 95% CI 1.15–1.32), respiratory complications (odds ratio = 1.2; 95% CI 1.15–1.32), and stroke (odds ratio = 1.1; 95% CI 1.04–1.23). For ESRD patients compared to NF patients there was an increased risk in respiratory complications (odds ratio = 1.3; 95% CI 1.08–1.47) and sepsis (odds ratio = 4.4; 95% CI 3.23–5.94). Mean length of stay and cost were: 2.8 d and $13,903 (ESRD), 2.2 d and $12,057 (CKD), and 1.8 d and $10,130 (NF), all p < 0.0001.

Conclusions

Patients with ESRD undergoing CEA had an increased risk of respiratory and septic complications, but not a higher risk of stroke compared to patients with normal renal function. The greatest risks of postoperative stroke, respiratory, and cardiac complications were found in patients with CKD. A diagnosis of ESRD and CKD were both found to significantly increase hospital mortality, length of stay and cost. Where clinicians typically consider ESRD patients the highest risk for CEA, further consideration should be given to patients with CKD not yet on dialysis as they had the higher risk of cardiac complications and stroke compared to the others evaluated.
Evaluation of radiographic fracture position 1 year after variable angle locking volar distal radius plating: a prospective multicentre case series
Authors: Teunis T. , Jupiter J. , Schaser K. D. , Fronhöfer G. , Babst R. , Langer M. , Platz A. , Schierz A. , Joeris A. , Rikli D.
Published: February 2017

Treatment with a variable angle locking plate can, in theory, maintain near anatomic reduction of intra-articular distal radius fractures, but it is unknown to what extent reduction is maintained as measured by computed tomography. We assessed changes in radiographic fracture position 1 year post-operatively. We included 73 patients of whom 66 patients (90%) had radiographs available for review at 1 year post-operatively. We found a small (less than 2 mm or 2°) but statistically significant change in several measures. Accounting for inter-observer variability, this is probably within measurement error. We found no difference in change in fracture position or range of motion, grip strength or patient-reported outcome between the use of one or two distal rows of screws. Our results show that minimal changes in reduction can be expected after volar plate fixation in most patients. We recommend using only one screw row routinely, limiting costs, surgical time and the risk of misplacement of screws.

Level of evidence: IV
Current challenges in the treatment of severe Clostridium difficile infection: early treatment potential of fecal microbiota transplantation
Authors: van Beurden Yvette H. , Nieuwdorp Max , van de Berg Pablo J. E. J. , Mulder Chris J. J. , Goorhuis Abraham
Published: February 2017

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a very effective treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Less is known about the application of FMT as a curative treatment of severe or complicated CDI. In this review, we present and discuss evidence supporting the curative use of FMT in severe or complicated CDI. We performed a literature search in PubMed and Embase for studies on the curative use of FMT in severe or complicated CDI. In addition, we describe a patient with severe CDI not responding to initial antibiotic treatment, who was successfully treated with curative FMT. We found 23 reports (12 case reports; 11 case series) about FMT as treatment for severe or complicated CDI. The patients described all had severe or complicated CDI, did not respond to conventional CDI antibiotic treatment and received FMT as last resort treatment. Patients were treated with (sequential) FMT, whether or not followed by additional antibiotic treatment for CDI. FMT, with or without additional antibiotic CDI treatment, appears to be a promising curative treatment option in patients with severe and complicated CDI, or only complicated CDI, who do not respond sufficiently to conventional antibiotic treatment. Treatment with FMT should be considered in these patients before proceeding to emergency bowel surgery.
Estimation of tidal current energy along the Gulf of Khambhat using three-dimensional numerical modeling
Authors: SatheeshKumar J , Balaji R
Published: February 2017

A finite difference–based three-dimensional modeling has been conducted to evaluate tidal power density at different locations along the Gulf of Khambhat, India. The model uses the Navier–Stokes transport equation in three-dimensional plane under the assumption of shallow water and Boussinesq. The model results were validated with observed water levels and currents available in the literature. The Gulf has strong and varying currents and associated circulation patterns, especially in the northern region, due to complex bathymetry. The current velocities and corresponding power densities were computed for different vertical layers of the entire model domain. The maximum tidal current velocities are found in the northern region along the narrowing part of the Gulf. The estimated values are 2.6 and 1.5 m/s during spring and neap tidal cycles, respectively. Then, the energy flux approximation method has been used to estimate the tidal power densities along the gulf spatially and temporally. The estimated maximum available potential is about 3 and 0.7 kW/m2 during spring and neap at two arbitrary point locations, respectively.
Alberta’s pluriform school system: Beyond the “public–secular” versus “private–religious” divide
Authors: Hiemstra John
Published: February 2017

The Canadian province of Alberta runs a unique school system that offers ten options for school plurality and choice, nine of which provide some form of faith-based schooling. This article argues that Alberta has created a pragmatic version of a “pluriform school system.” This system breaks with the assumption, shared by many Christian school supporters, that faith-based schooling ought to be delivered in the private sphere. The article describes these options for choice, identifies the historical motivators that sparked efforts to pluralize the system, and lists the key consequences and problems flowing from this system.
An Overview on Indications and Chemical Composition of Aromatic Waters (Hydrosols) as Functional Beverages in Persian Nutrition Culture and Folk Medicine for Hyperlipidemia and Cardiovascular Conditions
Authors: Hamedi Azadeh , Moheimani Seyed Mahmoud , Sakhteman Amirhossein , Etemadfard Hamed , Moein Mahmoodreza
Published: February 2017

Hydrosol beverages in Persian nutrition culture and ethnomedicine are the side products of essential oil industry that are used as delicious drinks or safe remedies. To investigate indications and chemical composition of hydrosol beverages for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular conditions, Fars province was selected as the field of study. Ethnomedical data were gathered by questionnaires. The constituents of hydrosols were extracted with liquid/liquid extraction and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis were used to cluster their constituents and find the relevance of their composition. A literature survey was also performed on plants used to prepare them. Thymol was the major or second major component of these beverages, except for wormwood and olive leaf hydrosols. Based on clustering methods, although some similarities could be found, composition of barberry, will fumitory, dill, and aloe hydrosols have more differences than others. These studies may help in developing some functional beverages or new therapeutics.
High-Output Heart Failure Contributing to Recurrent Epistaxis Kiesselbach Area Syndrome in a Patient With Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Bhattad Venugopal Brijmohan , Bowman Jennifer N. , Panchal Hemang B. , Paul Timir K.
Published: February 2017

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is a rare genetic blood disorder that leads to abnormal bleeding due to absent capillaries and multiple abnormal blood vessels known as arteriovenous malformations. A feature of HHT is high-output heart failure due to multiple arteriovenous malformations. High-output heart failure can lead to recurrent epistaxis Kiesselbach area syndrome (REKAS), further exacerbating heart failure through increased blood loss and resultant anemia. We report a patient with HHT who presented with high-output heart failure contributing to REKAS. In patients with REKAS, we propose if anemia is present, REKAS can be avoided by correcting the anemia by increasing the hemoglobin level to greater than 9 to 10 g/dL. This decreases hyperdynamic circulation and reduces pressure in the blood vessels of the nose.
T-cell assays confirm immunogenicity of tungsten-induced erythropoietin aggregates associated with pure red cell aplasia
Authors: Rubic-Schneider Tina , Kuwana Masataka , Christen Brigitte , Aßenmacher Manuela , Hainzl Otmar , Zimmermann Frank , Fischer Robert , Koppenburg Vera , Chibout Salah-Dine , Wright Timothy M. , Seidl Andreas , Kammüller Michael
Published: February 2017

Key Points

Tungsten-induced rhEPO aggregates in clinical lots are associated with rhEPO-neutralizing antibodies and PRCA. T-cell responses differentiate nonaggregated from aggregated rhEPO, confirming immunogenicity of tungsten-induced rhEPO aggregates.
Standardisation and application of the single-breath determination of nitric oxide uptake in the lung
Authors: Zavorsky Gerald S. , Hsia Connie C.W. , Hughes J. Michael B. , Borland Colin D.R. , Guénard Hervé , van der Lee Ivo , Steenbruggen Irene , Naeije Robert , Cao Jiguo , Dinh-Xuan Anh Tuan
Published: February 2017

Diffusing capacity of the lung for nitric oxide (DLNO), otherwise known as the transfer factor, was first measured in 1983. This document standardises the technique and application of single-breathDLNO. This panel agrees that 1) pulmonary function systems should allow for mixing and measurement of both nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO) gases directly from an inspiratory reservoir just before use, with expired concentrations measured from an alveolar “collection” or continuously sampledviarapid gas analysers; 2) breath-hold time should be 10 s with chemiluminescence NO analysers, or 4–6 s to accommodate the smaller detection range of the NO electrochemical cell; 3) inspired NO and oxygen concentrations should be 40–60 ppm and close to 21%, respectively; 4) the alveolar oxygen tension (PAO2) should be measured by sampling the expired gas; 5) a finite specific conductance in the blood for NO (θNO) should be assumed as 4.5 mL·min-1·mmHg-1·mL-1of blood; 6) the equation for 1/θCO should be (0.0062·PAO2+1.16)·(ideal haemoglobin/measured haemoglobin) based on breath-holdingPAO2and adjusted to an average haemoglobin concentration (male 14.6 g·dL−1, female 13.4 g·dL−1); 7) a membrane diffusing capacity ratio (DMNO/DMCO) should be 1.97, based on tissue diffusivity.
Management of continuous positive airway pressure treatment compliance using telemonitoring in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Turino Cecilia , de Batlle Jordi , Woehrle Holger , Mayoral Ana , Castro-Grattoni Anabel Lourdes , Gómez Sílvia , Dalmases Mireia , Sánchez-de-la-Torre Manuel , Barbé Ferran
Published: February 2017

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), but treatment compliance is often unsatisfactory. This study investigated the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of telemonitoring for improving CPAP compliance.

100 newly diagnosed OSA patients requiring CPAP (apnoea–hypopnoea index >15 events·h−1) were randomised to standard management or a telemonitoring programme that collected daily information about compliance, air leaks and residual respiratory events, and initiated patient contact to resolve issues. Clinical/anthropometric variables, daytime sleepiness and quality of life were recorded at baseline and after 3 months. Patient satisfaction, additional visits/calls, side-effects and total costs were assessed.

There were no significant differences between the standard and telemedicine groups in terms of CPAP compliance (4.9±2.2 versus 5.1±2.1 h·night−1), symptoms, clinical variables, quality of life and unwanted effects. Telemedicine was less expensive than standard management (EUR123.65 versus EUR170.97; p=0.022) and was cost-effective (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio EUR17 358.65 per quality-adjusted life-year gained). Overall patient satisfaction was high, but significantly more patients rated satisfaction as high/very high in the standard management versus telemedicine group (96% versus 74%; p=0.034).

Telemonitoring did not improve CPAP treatment compliance and was associated with lower patient satisfaction. However, it was more cost-effective than traditional follow-up.
Third generation drug eluting stent (DES) with biodegradable polymer in diabetic patients: 5 years follow-up
Authors: Wiemer Marcus , Stoikovic Sinisa , Samol Alexander , Dimitriadis Zisis , Ruiz-Nodar Juan M. , Birkemeyer Ralf , Monsegu Jacques , Finet Gérard , Hildick-Smith David , Tresukosol Damras , Novo Enrique Garcia , Koolen Jacques J. , Barbato Emanuele , Danzi Gian Battista ,   on behalf of NOBORI 2 investigators
Published: February 2017

Objective

To report the long-term safety and efficacy data of a third generation drug eluting stent (DES) with biodegradable polymer in the complex patient population of diabetes mellitus after a follow-up period of 5 years.

Background

After percutaneous coronary intervention patients with diabetes mellitus are under higher risk of death, restenosis and stent thrombosis (ST) compared to non-diabetic patients.

Methods

In 126 centers worldwide 3067 patients were enrolled in the NOBORI 2 registry, 888 patients suffered from diabetes mellitus (DM), 213 of them (14%) being insulin dependent (IDDM). Five years follow-up has been completed in this study.

Results

At 5 years, 89.3% of the patients were available for follow-up. The reported target lesion failure (TLF) rates at 5 years were 12.39% in DM group and 7.34% in non-DM group; (p < 0.0001). In the DM group, the TLF rate in patients with IDDM was significantly higher than in the non-IDDM subgroup (17.84 vs. 10.67%; p < 0.01). The rate of ST at 5 years was not different among diabetic versus non-diabetic patients or IDDM versus NIDDM. Only 10 (<0.4%) very late stent thrombotic events beyond 12 months occurred.

Conclusions

The Nobori DES performed well in patients with DM. As expected patients with DM, particularly those with IDDM, had worse outcomes. However, the very low rate of very late stent thrombosis in IDDM patients might have significant clinical value in the treatment of these patients.

Clinical trial registration ISRCTN81649913; http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/search.html?srch=81649913&sort=3&dir=desc&max=10
Multi-Element Profiling Analyses of Symbiotic Zooxanthellae and Soft Tissues in a Giant Clam (Tridacna crocea) Living in the Coral Reefs and Their Intake Process of Zn and Cd
Authors: Itoh Akihide , Kabe Noriko , Kuwae Sho , Oura Eriko , Hisamatsu Shin , Nakano Yoshikatsu , Zhu Yanbei
Published: February 2017

Approximately 20 major-to-ultratrace elements in each organ (mantle, muscle, liver, kidney) of a giant clam, Tridacna crocea, and 16 elements in symbiotic zooxanthellae were determined by ICP-AES, ICP-MS, and CHN coder. The biogeochemical properties of T. crocea were then investigated using multi-element profiling analyses. The values for most elements were the highest in the kidney among all organs. However, the concentrations of Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, Se, Ag, Cd, and Pb in the mantle were higher than those in the muscle and liver. Therefore, these results indicate that most trace elements taken in by T. crocea through zooxanthellae may finally accumulate in the kidney. Moreover, 14 trace elements in zooxanthellae were present in the concentration range from 181 µg g−1 for Zn to 0.58 µg g−1 for U based on dry weight after isolating zooxanthellae from the mantle. The concentrations of some trace metals in zooxanthellae were relatively higher than those in other organs except for the kidney. These results suggest that zooxanthellae could play an important role in extracting trace metals from seawater and providing them to the soft tissues in giant clams. The concentrations of Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, As, Se, Ag, and Cd in zooxanthellae were almost equal to or higher than those reported in literature. In particular, Mn, Co, Zn, and Cd were present in concentrations higher than those in whole soft tissues of T. crocea by factors of at least 105. In addition, we investigated the intake route of Zn and Cd from seawater for T. crocea using enriched stable isotopes of Zn and Cd. These results suggest that zooxanthellae could play an important role for the intake of trace metals such as Zn and Cd from seawater and for providing them to soft tissues in the giant clam.
Insights for conducting real-time focus groups online using a web conferencing service
Authors: Kite James , Phongsavan Philayrath
Published: February 2017

Background

Online focus groups have been increasing in use over the last 2 decades, including in biomedical and health-related research. However, most of this research has made use of text-based services such as email, discussion boards, and chat rooms, which do not replicate the experience of face-to-face focus groups. Web conferencing services have the potential to more closely match the face-to-face focus group experience, including important visual and aural cues. This paper provides critical reflections on using a web conferencing service to conduct online focus groups.

Methods

As part of a broader study, we conducted both online and face-to-face focus groups with participants. The online groups were conducted in real-time using the web conferencing service, Blackboard CollaborateTM. We used reflective practice to assess how the conduct and content of the groups were similar and how they differed across the two platforms.

Results

We found that further research using such services is warranted, particularly when working with hard-to-reach or geographically dispersed populations. The level of discussion and the quality of the data obtained was similar to that found in face-to-face groups. However, some issues remain, particularly in relation to managing technical issues experienced by participants and ensuring adequate recording quality to facilitate transcription and analysis.

Conclusions

Our experience with using web conferencing for online focus groups suggests that they have the potential to offer a realistic and comparable alternative to face-to-face focus groups, especially for geographically dispersed populations such as rural and remote health practitioners. Further testing of these services is warranted but researchers should carefully consider the service they use to minimise the impact of technical difficulties.
Use of negative pressure wound therapy after vulvar carcinoma: case studies
Authors: Raimond E. , Pelissier A. , Etienette Emeriau M. , François C. , Graesslin O.
Published: February 2017

Surgery is widely used to treat vulvar cancer. However, postoperative complications after a vulvectomy can occur in 26–85 % of the cases. Here, the authors describe a complete radical vulvectomy with bilateral inguinal lymph node dissection performed in two patients. Both patients developed infection and wound breakdown postoperatively. Due to failure of local care, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) was started to reduce bacterial rates and tension on wound edges. Accelerated tissue healing was observed in both cases, as well as an improvement in the patients' quality of life.
Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability outcomes of a rapid bacteria counting system with pressure ulcer samples
Authors: Nakagami G. , Mori M. , Yoshida M. , Kitamura A. , Hayashi A. , Miyagaki T. , Sasaki S. , Sugama J. , Sanada H.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

Evaluating bacterial load in pressure ulcers (PUs) is key to combat infection; therefore, using technologies to measure bacterial count can be particularly useful. A rapid bacteria counting system was recently developed and introduced to the wound care field. However, its reliability was not established. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of bacterial count using this rapid counting system.

Method:

We took bacterial swabs from patients with category I or greater PUs to assess inter- and intra-rater reliability. An assessor swabbed the longest axis of the PU once and bacterial counts were measured using a rapid bacteria counting system. To confirm the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated.

Results:

We took 63 and 57 pairs of bacterial counts from 13 patients with 16 category I or greater PUs to assess inter- and intra-rater reliability, respectively. Overall ICCs [95% confidence intervals (CI)] for the bacterial counts were 0.83 [0.73–0.90, p<0.001, inter-rater reliability, n=63], and 0.89 [0.82–0.94, p< 0.001, intra-rater reliability, n=57].

Conclusion:

A high level of reliability for counting bacterial numbers in PU sites was confirmed. The results should encourage clinicians and researchers to use this type of device for the real-time assessment of wound bacterial bioburden at the patient's bedside.
Implementing a UDL Framework: A Study of Current Personnel Preparation Practices
Authors: Scott LaRon A. , Thoma Colleen A. , Puglia Lauren , Temple Peter , D'Aguilar Allison
Published: February 2017

Young adults with intellectual disability (ID) continue to experience the least successful postschool outcomes among transition-aged youth (Sanford et al., 2011). Experts disagree on the most effective approach to improve outcomes such as employment, postsecondary education, and community living. In 2015, the National Goals Conference brought together educational researchers to set an agenda to guide the field in terms of research, practice, and policy (Thoma, Cain, & Walther-Thomas, 2015). One of their recommendations, based on promising research and practices, urged the field to identify effective personnel preparation and professional development practices that ensure general and special educators can implement a UDL framework (Thoma, Cain, et al., 2015). This study surveyed program coordinators at accredited universities to determine what is currently being done to prepare educators to implement a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, the extent to which a UDL framework is being incorporated into preservice courses in higher education, and how a UDL framework is being used to improve postschool outcomes for youth with ID.
Use of a UDL Literacy Environment by Middle School Students With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Coyne Peggy , Evans Miriam , Karger Joanne
Published: February 2017

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has been shown to have benefits for students with disabilities. However, little is known about its potential to support literacy for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This qualitative study explored (a) to what extent students with IDD are able to use Udio, an online UDL literacy environment; and (b) how students with IDD experienced and perceived Udio. A grounded theory approach was used to analyze classroom observations, as well as teacher and student interviews. Electronic usage logs and student-produced discussions and projects were analyzed descriptively. Students independently navigated the environment and used embedded supports, including audio-assisted reading and sentence starters. In addition, findings indicate that age-relevant content, choice, and opportunities to socialize in online discussions were especially engaging for students. Further research is warranted to determine how UDL environments affect the literacy development of students with IDD.
A INFLUÊNCIA DA TRAJETÓRIA DE VIDA DE UMA PROFESSORA LEITORA NA SUA PRÁTICA DOCENTE
Authors: Costa Shneider Mariângela , Diesel Aline , Abreu Luciane , Neumann Martins Silvana , Silva da Silva Jacqueline
Published: February 2017

Promover o incentivo à leitura constitui-se um dos principais objetivos da Educação Básica, sobretudo nos Anos Iniciais. Esse enfoque na leitura leva a interrogações, tais como: professores leitores desenvolvem práticas educativas significativas para a formação de alunos leitores? Diante desse questionamento, pretende-se, neste artigo, relatar e refletir sobre momentos relevantes da trajetória de uma professora da Educação Básica que experimentou desde a infância possibilidades proporcionadas pelo livro e por outros meios de cultura e, em razão disso, tornou-se leitora. A investigação, de abordagem qualitativa, foi realizada através de entrevista semiestruturada com uma professora. O tratamento das informações seguiu as orientações da Análise Textual Discursiva. As abordagens permitiram concluir que essa professora, por cultivar o hábito da leitura desde muito cedo, desenvolve com seus alunos práticas educativas significativas para a formação de leitores.
HISTÓRIAS E MEMÓRIAS NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: UM ELO ENTRE LITERATURA INFANTIL, PNBE E PRÁTICA PEDAGÓGICA
Authors: Barboza Tortella Jussara Cristina , Batista de Souza Koide Adriana , Faria Ana Paula , Chiarotto Ribeiros Ceres
Published: February 2017

O presente artigo discute acerca do trabalho com a literatura na Educação Infantil considerando a importante contribuição do PNBE neste processo, uma vez que este programa tem como objetivo formar e qualificar bibliotecas escolares. Trata-se de um estudo teórico sobre o PNBE e a literatura infantil, ilustrado com a narrativa de uma experiência do trabalho com a leitura na Educação Infantil. De tal forma, os objetivos deste artigo são: i) apresentar o PNBE e refletir sobre suas contribuições na escola; ii) relatar uma experiência de leitura na educação infantil; iii) mostrar que o trabalho com a literatura na educação infantil pode estar atrelado aos interesses das crianças e pode ser uma preciosa ferramenta na descoberta do mundo pelos pequenos. Compreendemos que intencionalidade e formação constituem-se aspectos fundamentais na construção de um trabalho que afeta significativamente os alunos, possibilitando o estabelecimento de uma relação frutuosa entre a criança e os livros.
BULLYING NA TV: PERCEPÇÕES DE ALUNOS E REPERCUSSÕES NA ESCOLA
Authors: Nogueira Luana Santos , Menin Maria Suzana De Stéfano
Published: February 2017

RESUMO: Nesse artigo investigamos as percepções de adolescentes sobre programações televisivas que abordem o bullying e suas concepções sobre o tema. Para tanto, realizamos um levantamento teórico sobre bullying e mídia e aplicamos questionários a alunos de 6º ao 9º ano, de duas escolas públicas e duas particulares, no município de Presidente Prudente/ SP. Fizemos, ainda, grupos focais para compreender a visão dos estudantes sobre práticas de prevenção e contenção do bullying realizadas nas escolas e verificar, a partir dessas falas, se as mesmas tinham relação com casos exibidos na mídia. De modo geral, os participantes da pesquisa reconhecem que o bullying é abordado na escola e fazem relações com casos exibidos na TV; entretanto, para eles, essa abordagem não surte efeito na prevenção ou contenção. Para combater o bullying, entendemos ser necessário um trabalho contínuo de conscientização e (re)construção de valores, sendo a mídia-educação possibilidade para promover tais reflexões.
DESENVOLVIMENTO HUMANO E JOGO DE PAPÉIS SOCIAIS: UMA LEITURA À LUZ DA TEORIA HISTÓRICO-CULTURAL
Authors: Nunes Rodrigo Lima , Viotto Filho Irieneu Aliprando Tuim
Published: February 2017

Este trabalho tem por objetivo inserir-se no debate acerca do desenvolvimento humano e do jogo de papéis sociais, buscando trazer contribuições, a partir de uma leitura da Teoria Histórico-Cultural, à educação infantil. Aborda-se que o processo de humanização dos indivíduos se dá a partir da apropriação e objetivação da cultura historicamente produzida, sob a orientação de determinadas atividades, dentre elas a atividade principal do jogo no período da infância. Nesse caminho, a partir dos escritos de Elkonin, Leontiev e Vigotski, discuti-se quais são as características históricas fundamentais de tal atividade, seus fundamentos centrais e quais são as importantes transformações psíquicas que opera. Conclui-se que esta atividade é fundamental para o desenvolvimento das crianças que se encontram em idade pré-escolar, sendo assim, há que serem superadas visões naturalistas e espontaneistas que, muitas vezes, orientam a realização desta atividade na escola de educação infantil.
O CORPO VIVO DA LEITURA: SENTIDOS E EXPERIÊNCIAS DO PENSAR EM NIETZSCHE E PROUST.
Authors: Costa Gilcilene Dias da , Campos Jessé Pinto
Published: February 2017

Resumo: A problemática da leitura tem se expressado com intensa preocupação na comunidade escolar e acadêmica em geral, sem, contudo, que tal anseio pela “apropriação” de uma cultura letrada venha acompanhado de um pensar sobre sua dimensão formativa. No intuito de contribuir com uma abordagem problematizadora e fruidora da leitura enquanto uma experiência formativa tecida nos interstícios entre texto e leitor, eu e outro, silêncio e palavra rumo ao desconhecido do pensar e seus abismos, o presente texto visa estreitar as relações entre Leitura e Filosofia para confabular sentidos outros de leitura espreitando as experiências de infância de Marcel Proust em seu ensaio “Sobre a leitura”, articulada à perspectiva fisiológica da leitura em Friedrich Nietzsche. Desse modo, posiciona-se como abertura e convite a adentrar os labirintos da leitura e suas interfaces com o pensar, valorando a atividade da leitura desde a tenra infância como canal de acesso ao desconhecido.
DISCURSOS DE IDENTIDADE E ALTERIDADE NOS CURRÍCULOS ESCOLARES EM TEMPOS DE GLOBALIZAÇÃO BIOPOLÍTICA
Authors: Voss Dulce Mari Silva
Published: February 2017

O artigo retoma leituras feitas no Curso de Especialização em Educação e Diversidade Cultural (UNIPAMPA/Campus Bagé) operando com as teorias pós-estruturalistas e os estudos culturais na análise dos processos de subjetivação e dos modos pelos quais se constituem discursos acerca de identidade e diferença no contexto da chamada globalização biopolítica. Entende ser necessário problematizar certos discursos fundados no pensamento da modernidade que nomeiam e fixam identidades e diferenças por características físicas, biológicas, territoriais, para refletir não só sobre a emergência de contemplar nos currículos escolares as questões étnicas, raciais, de gênero e sexistas, mas repensar os modos pelos quais tais temáticas são posicionadas nos processos de ensino e aprendizagem e que sentidos/efeitos produzem na contemporaneidade.