bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who Knows, who Cares? Dementia Knowledge among Nurses, Care Workers, and Family members of People Living with Dementia
Authors: Robinson Andrew , Eccleston Claire , Annear Michael , Elliott Kate-Ellen , Andrews Sharon , Stirling Christine , Ashby Michael , Donohue Catherine , Banks Susan , Toye Christine , McInerney Fran
Published: December 2018

The number of people with dementia is increasing rapidly worldwide. Commensurate with population ageing, the use of nursing homes in Australia (known as residential aged care facilities) for individuals with dementia is growing. As a terminal condition, dementia is best managed by instituting a palliative approach to care. A good knowledge of dementia, including its progression and management, among staff and families of people living with dementia is essential for clear decision making and the provision of appropriate care. Yet there is limited information regarding relative levels of dementia knowledge. This paper reports the results of a study that assessed dementia knowledge among these two cohorts using the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Tool; the study surveyed 279 staff members and 164 family members of residents with dementia. Dementia knowledge deficits were evident in both cohorts across a range of areas. It is critical that dementia knowledge deficits are identified and addressed in order to support evidence-based dementia care.

Le nombre de personnes atteintes de démence augmente rapidement à travers le monde. Ainsi on remarque en Australie une augmentation du nombre de ces malades admis dans les institutions de soins de longue durée. La démence étant une maladie terminale il appert que l'approche palliative est la meilleure forme de soins. Cependant, il est essentiel que le personnel soignant autant que les familles aient une bonne connaissance de la maladie, de ses symptomes, de la façon de traiter les maladies, et des décisions à prendre. Or, on en sait très peu quant au niveau de connaissances de ces deux groupes de personnes sur le sujet. Cet article porte sur les résultats d'une étude qui tentait d'évaluer le niveau de connaissances de 279 membres du personnel et de 164 membres des familles à l'aide de l'Έchelle d'évaluation des connaissances sur la démence. Le peu de connaissances était évident chez les deux cohortes et ce, sur un bon nombre de points. Il est donc de la plus haute importance que l'on identifie spécifiquement ces points et qu'on améliore la qualité des soins chez les personnes démentes en se basant sur des données probantes.
Headaches in Loyes-Dietz Syndrome
Authors: Samanta Debopam
Published: December 2018

Loeys-Dietz syndrome is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by cardiovascular, craniofacial, skeletal, and neurocognitive abnormalities. Recurrent headaches may constitute the neurological presentation of Loyes-Dietz syndrome in the absence of an intracranial aneurysm, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or dissection. The etiology of headaches occurring in Loeys-Dietz syndrome can be diverse but underrecognized and underreported. We described 3 children with Loeys-Dietz syndrome and significant headaches who did not develop neurovascular aneurysms or dissections at presentation and during the short follow-up period. One patient had a confirmed Loeys-Dietz syndrome diagnosis previously and presented with an acute headache due to spontaneous intracranial hypotension and other 2 children had intermittent headaches due to migraine and Chiari I malformation, respectively, and subsequent diagnosis of Loeys-Dietz syndrome was made due to characteristic phenotypic and neuroradiologic abnormalities. Migraine, Chiari I malformation, and spontaneous intracranial hypotension are known features of Loeys-Dietz syndrome and these 3 children will require serial angiographic monitoring for development of intra- and extracranial dissections and aneurysms and appropriate interventions to forestall neurologic complications. It is important to raise awareness of headaches in this population so that appropriate counseling can be given to the child and parents at diagnosis. The neurology community must familiarize itself with the phenotype of the disease for earlier recognition and meticulous surveillance for optimum care for these patients.
The effect of bioactive glass nanoparticles on polycaprolactone/chitosan scaffold: Melting enthalpy and cell viability
Authors: Kandelousi Peyman Sheikholeslami , Rabiee Sayed Mahmood , Jahanshahi Mohsen , Nasiri Fatemeh
Published: December 2018

Bioactive glass nanoparticles were synthesized by sol–gel method. The composite nanofiber of the polycaprolactone/Chitosan/bioactive glass scaffolds for tissue engineering is successfully fabricated by electrospinning technology. Transmission electron microscope analysis showed that the synthesized nanoparticles had a spherical shape and uniform structure. The results of scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope revealed that the electrospun fibers had a smooth and uniform morphology, and the average diameter of electrospun nanofibers decreased with increase in the bioactive glass nanoparticles. Also, surface roughness significantly increased by adding nano-bioactive glass loading. Functional and mineral groups of scaffold materials were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and energy dispersive X-ray tests. The presence of bioactive glass into the scaffold, hydrophilicity, melting temperature, and cell proliferation increases. Furthermore, the nanoparticles reduce the melting enthalpy of the membrane by changing the polymer molecular structure. Following the reduction of enthalpy, Gibbs free energy is also decreased and the reactivity of nano-bioactive glass in the polymeric chain increases. In order to evaluate the cytotoxicity of polycaprolactone/Chitosan/bioactive glass nanofibers, human gingival fibroblast cells were cultured. Attachment and proliferation of the human gingival fibroblast cells on polycaprolactone/Chitosan/bioactive glass scaffolds were significantly better than the polycaprolactone/Chitosan composite. We expect electrospun scaffold containing polycaprolactone/Chitosan/bioactive glass is promising for cartilage regeneration.
Are College-Educated Police Officers Different? A Study of Stops, Searches, and Arrests
Authors: Rosenfeld Richard , Johnson Thaddeus L. , Wright Richard
Published: December 2018

A study of more than 60,000 police traffic stops found that college-educated officers were more likely than other officers to stop drivers for less serious violations, perform consent searches, and make arrests on discretionary grounds. These results are consistent with those of prior research indicating that college-educated officers are more achievement-oriented and eager for advancement based on the traditional performance criteria of stops, searches, and arrests. The results raise questions regarding the recommendation of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing to improve police-community relations by hiring more college-educated police officers, especially in urban communities where concerns about over-policing are widespread. If community engagement were to become a primary basis for professional advancement, however, the current results suggest that college-educated officers may adapt to the new standards as diligently as they have to the traditional criteria for reward and promotion in U.S. police departments.
Observability criterion of angles-only navigation for spacecraft proximity operations
Authors: Gong Baichun , Luo Jianjun , Li Shuang , Li Wendan
Published: December 2018

This research studies the angles-only relative navigation problem for spacecraft proximity operations when the camera offset from the vehicle center-of-mass allows for range observability. Emphasis is placed on developing an analytic observability criterion for the camera offset within the context of the Clohessy-Wiltshire (CW) dynamics and evaluating the performance of the navigation algorithm in nonlinear dynamics environment. Further, the newly observability criterion is mathematically derived by changing the analyzing problem of the nonlinear observability into the solving problem of linear equations, and the criterion can be a powerful guideline to be followed to install the camera and execute attitude maneuvers. Moreover, navigation filtering algorithm based on an Unscented Kalman Filter and systematic nonlinear Monte Carlo simulation framework are established to verify the analytic observability criterion and evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm through typical proximity missions. The sensitivity of the navigation accuracy to spacecraft trajectories and camera offset is presented and discussed. The conclusion is that the camera offset is required to have out-of-plane component and cannot be parallel to the line-of-sight vector in order to supply range observability.
Experimentally validated structural finite element method analysis of a tibial intramedullary nail: Optimal choice of the contact settings
Authors: Croccolo D , De Agostinis M , Fini S , Funaioli S , Olmi G , Robusto F
Published: December 2018

This article focuses on the static structural analysis of a tibial intramedullary nail, carried out by the finite element method. The investigated subject is concerned with the issue of frictional contacts that, generating a non-linear problem, play an important role in numerical analyses. Experimental tests were also developed on tibial intramedullary nail specimens. The experimental results, in terms of force–displacement, were used to calibrate and validate the finite element analysis, by tuning the contact parameters available in the software.
Evaluation of coagulation disorders by thromboelastography in children with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Li Z , Xiao J , Song H , Chen Q , Han H , Li J , Zhang L , He Y , Wei M
Published: December 2018

Background

The coagulation status of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is quite complicated, and there are currently no simple efficient methods for its evaluation. We explored the feasibility of thromboelastography (TEG) for this purpose.

Methods

Paediatric SLE patients were divided into different groups based on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) scores. TEG parameters were compared between patients and healthy controls (HCs) and in patients by level of disease activity. Six patients treated with pulse methylprednisolone were also analysed before and after treatment.

Results

Thirty-nine children with SLE were enrolled, one of whom had bleeding and three of whom had thrombosis. The four TEG tracings of these four children were different. The TEG parameters of the patients (except the four children mentioned above) showed hypercoagulability, shortened R and K times, increased α-angle and maximum amplitude (MA), decreased LY30 and increased clot index (CI) compared with the parameters of the HCs ( P < 0.05). With respect to disease activity, patients with higher SLEDAI scores showed more obvious hypercoagulability with shortened R and K times and increased α-angle and CI ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between both the R time and K time and SLEDAI scores ( r = –0.435, P < 0.01 and r  =  –0.572, P  < 0.001, respectively) and a positive correlation between both α-angle and CI and SLEDAI scores ( r = 0.581, P  < 0.001 and r  =  0.544, P  < 0.01, respectively). No significant difference in coagulation status was found between pre- and post-pulse therapy.

Conclusions

Compared with the HCs, paediatric SLE patients showed hypercoagulability caused by increased coagulation and decreased fibrinolysis. These coagulation changes were associated with disease activity. TEG could be a potential tool for evaluating the coagulation status of children with SLE.
Adolescent Reliance on Social Networks in Career Exploration
Authors: Cotterell John
Published: December 2018

This paper reviews research on the role of network ties in job-finding in order to suggest how social networks may operate as information-based systems exerting influences on adolescent career exploration. Strong network ties influence job-finding differently than weak ties. Reliance on network ties as information sources may explain the reluctance of some adolescents to seek advice from the school's formal career advisory system. Suggestions are given on how to provide a context for adolescent career exploration, using knowledge of network ties.
Deetya Career Information Products
Authors: Harding Gwen
Published: December 2018

This case study provides an overview of the 1997 DEETYA (Department of Employment, Education, Training and Youth Affairs) career information products, including the Job guide 1997 CD-ROM. Developments incorporated into the 1997 products greatly enhance the flexibility with which the career information can be used and enable these resources to be accessed by a much wider audience, both in Australia and overseas. The overall objective of these products is to assist students and job seekers to make informed decisions leading to effective career, education and training choices. In addition to describing the content of each product, the target audience is outlined.
The reality of the Workplace
Authors: Pena Eileen
Published: December 2018

Graduate employment brings with it expectations. Graduates expect that their long years of study will lead to better employment opportunities and job satisfaction. Their parents expect them to be several steps up the career ladder. Employers expect money spent on recruiting graduates will bring them quality employees. The government expects graduates to have developed “going to work” skills. Universities expect that the quality of their graduates will enhance the university's reputation for excellence. If such great expectations attach to tertiary education, why do we hear so many criticisms, expressions of dissatisfaction, disillusionment and frustration from all sectors? After considering what graduates and employers expect of one another and what skills will be expected of graduates in the future, this paper suggests how education for the workplace might assist students in the transition from university to workplace and deliver ongoing self-reliance skills.
Careerquake
Authors: Watts Anthony G. , Watts Tony
Published: December 2018

Massive changes are taking place in the structures of work and careers. If these changes are to be reconciled with the concept of a just and equitable society, new kinds of policy interventions are required. This article suggests six such “social ligatures”, one of which is life-long access to career guidance.
Fall panicum (Panicum dichotomiflorum) toxicosis in three juvenile goats
Authors: Sillman Sarah J. , Lee Stephen T. , Claborn Jeff , Boruch Jennifer , Harris Seth P.
Published: December 2018

Consumption of certain grasses belonging to the genus Panicum has been found to cause hepatogenous photosensitization and crystal-associated cholangiohepatopathy in small ruminants, and liver disease in horses, in many areas of the world. We describe herein the clinical findings, microscopic lesions, and steroidal saponin analysis of Panicum dichotomiflorum associated with fatal toxicosis in 3 juvenile goats in Nebraska. The disease presentation in our case was fulminant, with anorexia, marked icterus, and death for all affected animals in less than a week. Photosensitization was not observed. The microscopic lesions consisted of severe crystal-associated cholangiohepatopathy and nephropathy, with aggregates of clear or refractile and birefringent, acicular crystals present within bile ducts, macrophages, hepatocytes, and renal tubules. High-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry of the grass samples demonstrated that dichotomin was the major steroidal saponin present (0.89 µg/mg); protodioscin was also present (0.059 µg/mg). The findings were consistent with ingestion of steroidal saponins, and P. dichotomiflorum was identified as the predominant forage available.
Antibodies produced by dogs successfully challenged with live Leptospira spp. did not cross-react to Brucella antigen in a commercial rapid slide agglutination test that detects antibodies to Brucella canis
Authors: Krecic Matthew R.
Published: December 2018

Brucella canis is a cause of canine infertility and abortion. Veterinarians and veterinary laboratorians screen for antibodies to B. canis with serologic tests including a rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT; D-Tec CB, Zoetis, San Diego, CA). False-positive results are possible because of cross-reactivity to antibodies to some gram-negative bacteria. Cross-reactivity has been reported between antibodies of Brucella abortus and Leptospira spp. with serologic tests for bovine brucellosis; however, this has not been documented with serologic tests for canine brucellosis, to the author’s knowledge. The RSAT was evaluated with the sera from dogs experimentally challenged with 1 of 4 serovars of Leptospira spp.: L. kirschneri serovar Grippotyphosa, or L. interrogans serovars Canicola, Icterohaemorrhagiae, or Pomona. Experimental infections were confirmed through results of microscopic agglutination testing and/or lateral flow immunochromatography testing. The sera of 32 dogs collected at day 0 and days 7, 10, and 14 yielded negative results with the RSAT. Antibodies produced through experimental infections to these 4 serovars of Leptospira spp. did not cross-react with Brucella antigen with the RSAT; therefore, cross-reactivity of anti-leptospiral antibodies may not be of concern for B. canis rapid slide agglutination testing of dogs.
Getting It Quite Wrong: Van Manen and Smith on Phenomenology
Authors: Zahavi Dan
Published: December 2018

Max van Manen and Jonathan Smith have recently had an exchange in Qualitative Health Research concerning their respective use of phenomenology. I welcome the attempt to get clearer on what phenomenology amounts to and I agree with van Manen that an overly arbitrary use of the term will lead to an erosion of the reputation of phenomenology. However, I think both of them are to blame for promoting various confusions concerning the nature of phenomenology. The aim of my article is to make some critical remarks concerning van Manen’s and Smith’s understanding of phenomenology and to suggest alternative resources for qualitative researchers interested in phenomenology.
Presenting Critical Realist Discourse Analysis as a Tool for Making Sense of Service Users’ Accounts of Their Mental Health Problems
Authors: Sims-Schouten Wendy , Riley Sarah
Published: December 2018

Making sense of service users’ accounts of their mental health problems requires a method able to deal with complexity. Yet the different underlying epistemological and ontological positions of the methods researchers use, based, for example, on biomedicine or social constructionism, produce highly partial analyses. Addressing this problem, this article offers a method of Critical Realist Discourse Analysis (CRDA) that employs a synthesized discourse analysis, informed by critical realism, to examine the discursive, material, embodied, and institutional factors that might inform how mental health service users make sense of their mental health problems and associated service use. The article describes the epistemological/ontological underpinnings of CRDA and its three-phase methodology, before showcasing the method using, as examples, two data sets from care leavers and mothers. With our CRDA, we demonstrate a method for analyzing the complexity of interacting factors informing service users’ understanding of their mental health problems.
Application of Components of the Massachusetts’ Sports Concussion Regulations to All Students With Concussion: A Survey of School Nurses
Authors: Hackman Holly , Howland Jonathan , Taylor Alyssa , Brown Linda , Gapinski Mary Ann , Olshaker Jonathan , Stern Robert A.
Published: December 2018

Appropriate management by schools of all students with a concussion, regardless of the cause, has not received the same attention as sports-related concussions. Focus groups conducted with Massachusetts School Nurses in 2015 found that some had applied protocols required in the state’s sports concussion regulations to all students with concussion, not just student athletes. We surveyed high school nurses in Massachusetts to examine (1) the extent of this practice and (2) the extent to which protocols for all students with concussion are included in school policies. Of 168 (74%) responding, 94% applied the return-to-learn and play, and medical clearance requirements to all students with concussion, regardless of how or where the concussion occurred and 77% reported their school’s policy required these protocols for all students with concussion. A significant association (odds ratio: 13.3, 95% confidence interval [2.4, 72.8], p <.01) existed between the two measures. These findings have important clinical and academic implications.
Integration of Expressive Techniques in Multisystemic Therapy With At-Risk Adolescents: A Retrospective Case Analysis
Authors: Deaton Jennifer D. , Ohrt Jonathan
Published: December 2018

The multisystemic therapy (MST) treatment model is derived from social ecological theory, through which known risk and protective factors of ecological systems are identified by indirect and direct contribution to at-risk behaviors. However, youth with emotional disturbances postdischarge from residential treatment facilities are often referred to MST due to managed care organizations extending beyond the once identified population of juvenile offenders. Consequently, MST works within the ecological system at which an integration of MST and expressive techniques (ETs) can occur in order to simultaneously work within the individual system. In this article, we discuss the foundation of MST and present a retrospective case analysis of the integration of MST and ETs. We discuss limitations and future research considerations.
Comparison of the Type of Fixation of Akin Osteotomy
Authors: Liszka Henryk , Gądek Artur
Published: December 2018

Background:

The objective of the study was to assess the influence of the type of fixation of the Akin osteotomy when used during hallux valgus surgery.

Methods:

Between 2013 and 2016, we performed 138 Akin osteotomy procedures employing a staple (group A, 43 patients), screw (group B, 47 patients), and single or double transosseous suture stabilization (group C, 48 patients). We assessed the pre- and postoperative interphalangeal angle (IPA), hallux valgus angle (HVA), and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) on dorsoplantar and lateral foot weightbearing x-rays and used the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux-metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale for preoperative and 12-month postoperative follow-up clinical assessment. All the complications and costs of implant usage were recorded.

Results:

In all the groups, the average HVA (A: from 33.4 to 13.1 degrees; B: from 32.8 to 14.1 degrees; C: from 31.9 to 12.9 degrees), IMA (A: from 14.4 to 7.2 degrees; B: from 13.9 to 6.9 degrees; C: from 14.5 to 7.1 degrees), and IPA (A: from 12.1 to 5.6 degrees; B: from 11.7 to 6.0 degrees; C: from 12.5 to 5.9 degrees) decreased. The average AOFAS score improved in groups A (from 45 to 91 points), B (from 42 to 90 points), and C (from 42 to 91 points). We observed 1 recurrence after the single-tunnel suture fixation, 1 prominent screw, and 1 staple soft tissue irritation. We did not find a delayed union or nonunion.

Conclusion:

The suture fixation of the Akin osteotomy provides results comparable to other forms of stabilization. The procedure is cost saving and helps to avoid hardware-related complications. Despite the type of bunion surgery used, fixation of the Akin osteotomy with suture was as good as more expensive and potentially more complicated fixation methods.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Effect of perturbation amplitudes on water film stiffness coefficients of water-lubricated plain journal bearings based on CFD–FSI methods
Authors: Liang Xingxin , Yan Xinping , Liu Zhenglin , Ouyang Wu
Published: December 2018

A numerical three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics-fluid structure interaction (CFD-FSI) model including lining deformation and cavitation is developed to evaluate the effect of perturbation amplitudes on stiffness coefficients of hydrodynamic water-lubricated plain journal bearings. Three types of bearing with rubber, polymer and steel lining materials are compared in terms of stiffness coefficients, load-carrying capacity and journal center equilibrium position under different eccentricity ( ɛ) conditions. The simulation results indicate that perturbation amplitudes have great influence on the four stiffness coefficients of water film of hard lining bearings at large ɛ. However, when ɛ ≤ 0.5 and the perturbation varies within 2.9% of the bearing radial clearance, the effect is less than 10% regardless the lining materials. For the rubber lining bearing, the effect of perturbation amplitudes on the stiffness coefficients is negligible due to the rubber deformation, even at ɛ = 1.9 and the perturbation amplitudes up to 7% of the radial clearance. Lining deformation also affects the attitude angle of the journal and the stiffness of water film. The calculation results demonstrate that the lining deformation and journal perturbation amplitudes are two important factors which cannot be ignored in the calculation of bearing stiffness in case of the journal at large eccentricity ratios.
Similarities and differences in predictors of life satisfaction across age groups: A 150-country study
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen , Jovanović Veljko
Published: December 2018

This study used multi-level modeling in a sample of 952,739 adults across 150 countries to investigate age differences in demographic, psychological, and social predictors of life satisfaction. Based on percentiles of age distribution, the sample was categorized into five age groups (15–24, 25–33, 34–43, 44–57, and ⩾58). The predictors were generally more effective in predicting life satisfaction in older groups (i.e. age ⩾34 years) than in younger groups (i.e. age ⩽33 years). Although the determinants of life satisfaction were generally consistent across the lifespan, the study unraveled differences in the predictive power of some of the predictors across the age groups.
Intelligent parameter identification for bridge cables based on characteristic frequency equation of transverse dynamic stiffness
Authors: Dan Danhui , Xu Bin , Xia Ye , Yan Xingfei , Jia Pengfei
Published: December 2018

Determining the cable force and other parameters of cables is important for condition assessment of cable-stayed structures. This study proposes a frequency characteristic equation of transverse dynamic stiffness for cables; this equation is suitable for measuring the vibrations to evaluate the primary factors that influence the accuracy of cable parameter identification. Further, a cable parameter identification method based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed. The method is suitable for a cable system of arbitrary length and with moderate sag especially when the measurement quality of the modal frequencies of cables is poor. Both numerical case studies and a cable vibration test proved that the proposed method can identify parameters with high accuracy for cables of any length and for cases requiring low-frequency measurement. Moreover, structural modal order information is not required. The extreme case is that only one order frequency can achieve highly accurate result in this way. The proposed method is suitable for parameter identification of short cables, hanger cables, and parallel strand cables, which are commonly applicable in engineering applications.
He–Laplace method for nonlinear vibration in shallow water waves
Authors: Li Fengquan , Nadeem Muhammad
Published: December 2018

This study is based on an analytical approach for nonlinear vibration of nonlinear evaluation equations which arises in shallow water waves. This approach is, coupled with variational iteration method and Laplace transformation, known as He–Laplace method. In order to show the capability of the proposed method, He’s polynomials are employed to handle nonlinear terms in illustrated problems due to specific limit of Laplace transformation. Significant results and their graphical representations demonstrated that He–Laplace method is most suitable for nonlinear problems, and it is enormously active for nonlinear vibrations and nonlinear waves.
Leadership in early childhood education: The case for pedagogical praxis
Authors: Palaiologou Ioanna , Male Trevor
Published: December 2018

In this conceptual article, the authors examine the context of early childhood education and care in England and the underpinning predominant ideologies to explore how these impact on the framing of leadership. The English context entails several contradictions (antinomies) at ontological, epistemological and axiological levels, and is heavily influenced by an ideological struggle concerning the value of play within the sector as opposed to a climate of child performativity. Moreover, the predominately female workforce (a factor itself) has faced relentless changes in terms of qualifications and curriculum reforms in recent years. With the introduction of the graduate leader qualification (Early Years Teacher Status), a vast body of research has been seeking to conceptualise what leadership means for early childhood education and care. In this article, the authors argue that these attempts are helpful and contribute to this discourse of leadership, but it needs to be thought of not only abstractly, but also practically. Thus, the authors conclude, the (re)conceptualisation of leadership should locate it as pedagogical praxis after evaluating the inherent deep dispositions of leaders in conjunction with their history, surrounding culture and subjective perspectives/realities.
Measurement of Sauter mean diameter in diesel sprays using a scattering–absorption measurement ratio technique
Authors: Martinez Gabrielle L , Poursadegh Farzad , Magnotti Gina M , Matusik Katarzyna E , Duke Daniel J , Knox Benjamin W , Kastengren Alan L , Powell Christopher F , Genzale Caroline L
Published: December 2018

A new diagnostic for the quantification of Sauter mean diameter in high-pressure fuel sprays has been recently developed using combined optical and X-ray measurements at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Argonne National Laboratory, respectively. This diagnostic utilizes liquid scattering extinction measurements from diffuse back-illumination imaging, conducted at Georgia Tech, and liquid absorption measurements from X-ray radiography, conducted at Argonne’s Advanced Photon Source. The new diagnostic, entitled the scattering–absorption measurement ratio, quantifies two-dimensional distributions of path-integrated Sauter mean diameter, enabling the construction of the spatial history of drop size development within practical fuel sprays. This technique offers unique benefits over conventional drop-sizing methods in that it can be more robust in optically dense regions of the spray, while also providing high spatial resolution of the corresponding droplet field. The methodology for quantification of Sauter mean diameter distributions using the scattering–absorption measurement ratio technique has been previously introduced and demonstrated in diesel sprays using the Engine Combustion Network Spray D injector; however, a more detailed treatment of measurement uncertainties has been needed. In this work, we present a summary of the various sources of measurement uncertainty in the scattering–absorption measurement ratio diagnostic, like those due to the experimental setup, data processing methods, and theoretical assumptions, and assess how these sources of uncertainty affect the quantified Sauter mean diameter. The spatially resolved Sauter mean diameter measurements that result from the scattering–absorption measurement ratio diagnostic will be especially valuable to the engine modeling community for the quantitative validation of spray submodels in engine computational fluid dynamics codes. Careful evaluation and quantification of measurement uncertainties are important to support accurate model validation and to ensure the development of more predictive spray models.
Power Spectral Density Analysis of Long-Term Motor Recovery in Patients With Subacute Stroke
Authors: Min Yu-Sun , Park Jang Woo , Jang Kyung Eun , Lee Hui Joong , Lee Jongmin , Lee Yang-Soo , Jung Tae-Du , Chang Yongmin
Published: December 2018

Background. Prognostic measures of long-term motor recovery are important in patients with stroke presenting with severe hemiplegia. Objective. We aimed to investigate whether initial power spectral density (PSD) analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) data can provide a sensitive prognostic predictor in patients with subacute stroke with severe hand disability. Methods. Twelve patients with good recovery, 14 patients with poor recovery, and 12 healthy subjects were included. PSD analysis was performed using resting-state fMRI data. Contralesional and ipsilesional PSD in the motor cortex were measured. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to assess a possible association between the difference in ipsilesional versus contralesional PSD and motor outcomes. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed to estimate the discriminative value of the difference between the ipsilesional PSD and the contralesional PSD for good versus poor recovery. Results. There were no differences in PSD between the contralesional and ipsilesional hemispheres in the good recovery group ( P = .77). In contrast, there were significant differences in PSD between the 2 hemispheres in the poor recovery group ( P = .07). The difference in PSD between the 2 hemispheres had a positive correlation with post Brunnstrom stage scores. ROC analysis showed that the difference in PSD between the 2 hemispheres was sensitive in discriminating good versus poor recovery. Conclusion. The present study suggests that PSD in the motor cortex may be a sensitive predictor of late-onset motor recovery following stroke.
Analysis of revascularisation in ischaemic stroke with EmboTrap (ARISE I study) and meta-analysis of thrombectomy
Authors: Mattle Heinrich P , Scarrott Carl , Claffey Mairsil , Thornton John , Macho Juan , Riedel Christian , Söderman Michael , Bonafé Alain , Piotin Michel , Newell John , Andersson Tommy ,   for the ARISE I Study Group
Published: December 2018

Background and purpose

The goal of the analysis of revascularisation in ischaemic stroke with EmboTrap study (ARISE I) was to demonstrate the effectiveness of EmboTrap.

Methods

ARISE I was an open label, single arm, multicentre, prospective study for the treatment of acute stroke due to large vessel occlusion. The primary outcome was revascularisation of the target vessel as measured by the modified thrombolysis in cerebrovascular infarction (mTICI) score of at least 2b following thrombectomy with EmboTrap. For comparison of the ARISE I results a meta-analysis of eight randomised controlled trials was performed.

Results

ARISE I enrolled 40 patients. Their baseline characteristics that are predictors of stroke outcome and procedure timings in ARISE I were similar to those reported in recent randomised controlled trials. The primary outcome, good revascularisation rates (mTICI 2b/3 scores) after three or fewer passes with EmboTrap were 75% (95% confidence interval (CI) 62–88%), which is the same as 74% found in randomised controlled trials (difference of 0.8%, P = 0.95). After additional EmboTrap passes or the use of another device mTICI 2b/3 scores rose to 85% (95% CI 74–96%), which was also similar to the randomised controlled trials (difference 11%, P = 0.38). The high revascularisation rates in ARISE I converted into 64% good clinical outcomes (modified Rankin scale ≤2) compared to 50% in randomised controlled trials (difference 14%; 95% CI –13.7–41.7%; P = 0.32).

Conclusions

ARISE I demonstrates that thrombectomy using the EmboTrap stent retriever yields similar results to devices that were used in recent randomised controlled trials for the treatment of stroke due to large vessel occlusions. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02190552
Effect of cutting parameters on the residual stress distribution generated by pocket milling of 2219 aluminum alloy
Authors: Ji Chunhui , Sun Shuangqiu , Lin Bin , Fei Jixiong
Published: December 2018

This work describes the experimental investigation of the residual stress distribution in the square pocket milling of 2219 aluminum alloy. The results reveal that the axial depth of cut is the most important factor influencing the residual stress distribution of the machined pocket surface, and the more tensile stress states are found with the increase in axial cutting depth due to the thermal deformation. The dominant mechanical deformation at all spindle speeds tends to produce the compressive residual stress. Altered feed rate and radial depth of cut show little changes in the residual stress distributions and the average values. In addition, the pattern of residual stress distribution of the square pocket surface is dramatically changed and the more tensile stresses are produced as the milling operation further proceeds. From this investigation, it is suggested to shorten the cutting time by raising the cutting parameters such as the feed rate and the radial depth of cut to achieve the compressive stress and the good surface roughness.
Use of intravenous alprostadil in patients with severe critical ischemia of the lower limbs
Authors: Machado-Alba Jorge Enrique , Machado-Duque Manuel E
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To determine the indications for the use, potential benefits, and adverse reactions of alprostadil in a group of Colombian patients.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in patients diagnosed with critical limb ischemia who received alprostadil in five hospitals in Colombia between September 2011 and July 2017. We reviewed the clinical records of each patient to obtain the sociodemographic and pharmacological variables, clinical stages, complications, comorbidities, reported effectiveness and adverse reactions.

Results

Sixty-one patients treated with alprostadil were evaluated; 50.8% of patients were men, and the average age of 72.5 ± 10.7 years. A total of 86.9% of patients were hypertensive, and 65.6% were diabetic. A total of 77.0% presented ulceration, and this condition was considered as a diabetic foot in 57.4% of patients. A total of 81.9% of patients were classified as Fontaine stage 4; 60.7% received therapy as initially indicated, with an average of 19 days of alprostadil use. Regarding the therapy results, 58.0% of the patients with ulcers or trophic lesions showed improvement, 86.2% showed improvement of pain, and the limb was saved in 72.1% of patients.

Conclusions

Critical limb ischemia was presented by patients with advanced age and high cardiovascular risk who were treated during severe and advanced stages where therapeutic options are limited. Treatment with alprostadil achieved satisfactory results with improvement in ulcers, pain, and limb salvage rates in this series of patients.
Government frames and their influence on news framing: An analysis of cross-lagged correlations in the Mexican context
Authors: Rodelo Frida V , Muñiz Carlos
Published: December 2018

Frame building has been described as the flow of frames from political actors to journalists and, thus, to news articles. One influence factor to be considered in the area of framing is media input, which consists of materials that political actors send to newsrooms to facilitate their work while influencing the news. To find out to what extent the government’s frames for the Merida Initiative influenced news frames, we identified the issue-specific frames of the initiative, measured their presence in newspapers and media input, and conducted eight cross-lagged correlation analyses. On seven occasions, the correlation went above the baseline. For this reason, it was concluded that the salience of frames in media input had a significant role in the salience of frames in news.
Clearance and persistence of the human papillomavirus infection among Cameroonian women
Authors: Akaaboune Mohamed , Kenfack Bruno , Viviano Manuela , Temogne Liliane , Catarino Rosa , Tincho Eveline , Mbobda Joel , Tran Phuong Lien , Camail Roxane , Vassilakos Pierre , Petignat Patrick
Published: December 2018

Objective:

Persistent infection with human papillomavirus is the prerequisite for the development of cervical precancerous and cancerous lesions. The aim of this study was to determine the time-to-viral clearance in a population of human papillomavirus–infected Cameroonian women and to examine the possible predictors of viral persistence.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective cohort study based on a population of human papillomavirus–positive women having previously been recruited in a self-human papillomavirus-based cervical cancer screening campaign, who were invited for a control visit at 6 and 12 months. We determined human papillomavirus clearance using self-sampling (Self-HPV) and physician-sampling (Dr-HPV), which were analyzed with a point-of-care assay (GeneXpert® IV; Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). Logistic regression was performed to assess the relationship between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics with HPV clearance according to the two sampling techniques.

Results:

A total of 187 participants were included in the study. At the 12 months follow-up, 79.5% (n = 104) and 65.3% (n = 86) had cleared their human papillomavirus infection according to Dr-HPV and self-HPV, respectively (p = 0.001). Only parity (>5 children) was statistically associated with viral persistence (p = 0.033). According to Dr-HPV, clearance of women treated with thermoablation at 12 months was of 84.1% versus 70.2% for non-treated women (p = 0.075).

Conclusion:

The human papillomavirus clearing rates found in our study are close to those found in other studies worldwide. Parity was significantly associated with human papillomavirus persistence. Larger, prospective studies are needed to confirm our results.
Systematic literature review of risk factors for cervical cancer in the Chinese population
Authors: Li Xiao , Hu Shang Ying , He Yunkun , Hernandez Donoso Leyla , Qu Kelly Qiao , Van Kriekinge Georges , Zhao Fang Hui
Published: December 2018

Objectives:

Human papillomavirus is the necessary cause of cervical cancer, in particular the human papillomavirus-16/18 strains, which have been detected in ~70% of all cervical cancer cases worldwide. This study aims to assess whether other cofactors, which might be specific for the Chinese population, are involved in the development of cervical cancer. These findings may support the future direction of cervical cancer prevention.

Study Design:

Systematic literature review.

Methods:

The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, MEDLINE-IN-PROCESS, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data and Chongqing VIP Information. The target population were adolescents or adults from mainland China. All observational studies irrespective of intervention or comparator reporting risk factors for cervical cancer were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess study quality. The impact of each outcome was reported in numerical terms.

Results:

A total of 2,676 articles were screened. A total of 21 articles met the inclusion criteria. All studies were case-controlled designs mostly conducted in hospitals of South-Eastern China. A total of 18 studies reported lifestyle behaviours as significant influencing factors in the development of cervical cancer. Sexual behaviour, gestational factors, screening history, disease history and socio-demographics status were reported as significant risk factors for cervical cancer development.

Conclusion:

This review provides an up-to-date insight of current cervical cancer risk factors in China. Due to the heterogeneity of the results, further evaluation is recommended to determine the association of these risk factors to the overall risk of cervical cancer.
Difference Matters: Teaching Students a Contextual Theory of Difference Can Help Them Succeed
Authors: Stephens Nicole M. , Hamedani MarYam G. , Townsend Sarah S. M.
Published: December 2018

Today’s increasingly diverse and divided world requires the ability to understand and navigate across social-group differences. We propose that interventions that teach students about these differences can not only improve all students’ intergroup skills but also help disadvantaged students succeed in school. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, this article theorizes that teaching students a contextual understanding of difference can accomplish both of these important goals. Understanding difference as contextual means recognizing that social-group differences come from participating in and adapting to diverse sociocultural contexts. This article begins by reviewing research that highlights two distinct understandings of social-group differences—as contextual or essential—and demonstrates their consequences for intergroup outcomes. We then review research on multicultural and social justice education that highlights the potential benefits of educating students about social-group differences. We propose that these educational approaches are associated with intergroup and academic benefits for one key reason: They teach students a contextual theory of difference. Finally, to illustrate and provide causal evidence for our theory of how a contextual understanding of difference affords these benefits, this article provides an overview of the first social psychological intervention to teach students a contextual understanding of difference: difference-education.
An exploration on the relationship between traffic flow and the rate of surgical site infections: A literature review
Authors: Brown Claire , Owen Sara L.F.
Published: December 2018

Surgical site infections are the second most frequent type of health-care associated infections in Europe and America. Public Health England’s data on 139,691 operations at 209 hospitals reported 1,635 surgical site infections between April 2012 and March 2017. Patients with a surgical site infection are twice as likely to die, five times more likely to be readmitted after discharge and are likely to have a prolonged hospitalization. Therefore, it is still a significant issue that professionals need to help reduce. This literature review looks at ventilation within theatres and how traffic flow can affect the air flow and if it can increase the incidence rates of surgical site infections. Recommendations of strategies are made to help reduce traffic flow within operating theatres.
The implications of diffusion of responsibility on patient safety during anaesthesia, ‘So that others may learn and even more may live’ – Martin Bromiley
Authors: Mcintosh Emily
Published: December 2018

This article considers the phenomenon of diffusion of responsibility and its relevance to patient safety during anaesthetic emergencies and to what, if anything, the United Kingdoms’ healthcare professions need to do to minimise its detrimental effect upon patient safety. The factors that influence the occurrence of diffusion of responsibility are complex and multifactorial, with no simplistic solution. Whilst research on the issue exists, most relates to disciplines other than healthcare, such as aviation. Further research specific to healthcare and anaesthetic emergencies is needed to inform practice. In addition, a systemic change within the healthcare system will be vital in increasing recognition and working towards minimising its occurrence, so that patient safety remains central to the care we provide.
Developmental delay: When to suspect it and when to refer
Authors: Wellman Sophie , Davis Paul
Published: December 2018

Developmental delay and global developmental delay are terms used to describe children who take longer to reach their milestones than might be expected. They are very common conditions, and we will all have consultations with carers of children who express concern about an aspect of a child’s development. This article will look at when to suspect developmental delay, what to do and when to refer.