bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of Convectively Induced Turbulence over Developing Oceanic Convection
Authors: Barber Katelyn A. , Deierling Wiebke , Mullendore Gretchen , Kessinger Cathy , Sharman Robert , Muñoz-Esparza Domingo
Published: June 2019

Convectively induced turbulence (CIT) is an aviation hazard that continues to be a forecasting challenge as operational forecast models are too coarse to resolve turbulence affecting aircraft. In particular, little is known about tropical maritime CIT. In this study, a numerical simulation of a tropical oceanic CIT case where severe turbulence was encountered by a commercial aircraft is performed. The Richardson number (Ri), subgrid-scale eddy dissipation rate (EDR), and second-order structure functions (SF) are used as diagnostics to determine which may be used for CIT related to developing and mature convection. Model-derived subgrid-scale EDR in past studies of midlatitude continental CIT was shown to be a good diagnostic of turbulence but underpredicted turbulence intensity and areal coverage in this tropical simulation. SF diagnosed turbulence with moderate to severe intensity near convection and agreed most with observations. Further, SF were used to diagnose turbulence for developing convection. Results show that the areal coverage of turbulence associated with developing convection is less than mature convection. However, the intensity of turbulence in the vicinity of developing convection is greater than the turbulence intensity in the vicinity of mature convection highlighting developing convection as an additional concern to aviation.
Communication as a moral vocation: Safe space and freedom of speech
Authors: Hill David W.
Published: June 2019

The use of safe spaces in universities has become increasingly controversial over the last few years. Safe spaces are set up to offer an environment in which marginalised identities and hidden experiences can be given a voice, allowing for acceptance and affirmation. Their critics charge that they are at odds with the university as a site of debate; that their use has a chilling effect on free speech; and even that safe spaces are harmful to liberal democratic society itself. This article draws on social and cultural theory in order to counter these attacks on safe spaces. Working with Max Weber, Judith Butler and Emmanuel Levinas, the first section introduces the idea of communication as a moral vocation, calling for greater recognition of the need to balance the universal (freedom of speech) with a responsibility to hear voices that are not already amplified. Building on this, and drawing additionally on Jacques Derrida and Sara Ahmed, the second section introduces the idea of debate fetishism, which serves to negate the moral function of communication, naturalise the dominance of privileged voices, and neutralise the struggles of the struggling to be heard. It is concluded that safe spaces pose no threat to freedom of speech but that the stigmatisation of their use acts to further disadvantage underrepresented identities.
Narratives about Political Violence and Reconciliation in Peru
Authors: Ríos Jerónimo
Published: June 2019

The narratives of members of the armed forces, former members of the Shining Path, and victims of Peru’s armed conflict between 1980 and 2000 include very different views of the responsibility for the violence, the notion of terrorism, the concepts of truth, justice, reparation, and nonrepetition, and the meaning of reconciliation itself. Analysis of in-depth interviews reveals a society that, decades after the violence, in 2018, the Year of National Dialogue and Reconciliation, is still fractured and far from any type of recovery of its social fabric and symbolic resolution of its internal armed conflict.

Las narrativas de miembros de las Fuerzas Militares, exmiembros de Sendero Luminoso y diferentes víctima del conflicto armado interno acontecido en Perú entre 1980 y 2000 incluyen perspectivas muy diferentes sobre la responsabilidad de la violencia, la noción de terrorismo, los aspectos relativos a verdad, justicia, reparación y no repetición, o el significado mismo de la reconciliación. El análisis de entrevistas en profundidad muestra una sociedad que décadas después de la violencia, en el año 2018, denominado como “Año del Diálogo y la Reconciliación Nacional”, se mantiene fracturada y alejada de cualquier atisbo de recomposición de su tejido social y superación simbólica de su conflicto armado interno.
Digital Behavior Intervention Plans: Effects on General Education Teacher Fidelity of Implementation
Authors: Holcomb Christopher , Baker Joshua N. , More Cori
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of digital behavior intervention plans (DBIPs) with multimedia anchored instruction on general education teachers’ fidelity of implementation while teaching students with disabilities. A multiple probe design was used to investigate the effects of DBIPs across six teacher–student dyads. The effects on student desirable and undesirable behaviors were also examined across all phases of the study. Data for all six teacher participants suggest a functional relationship and show that all teachers increased their fidelity of implementation of BIPs. In addition, the teachers’ fidelity of implementation of the BIPs showed a moderate to high effect on increasing desirable student behavior and neutralized undesirable student behavior. Further results and implications for fidelity of implementation and research are discussed.
Nerve Fiber Regeneration in Toxic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Jortner Bernard S.
Published: June 2019

There is a striking difference in the potential for regeneration of injured axons in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which is important in neurotoxicologic studies. In contrast to the former, there is a ready mechanism for replacement of peripheral nerve axons that have degenerated following exposure to toxins, where long-distance axon regeneration and substantial functional recovery can occur. This relates at least in part to the nature of the glial and other supporting cells of the peripheral nerve. To provide background for these events, data on regeneration following traumatic injury to peripheral nerve are reviewed. This is followed by descriptions of nerve fiber regeneration after experimental exposure to 3 peripheral nerve axonopathic toxins, organophosphate tri-ortho-tolyl phosphate, the industrial chemical carbon disulfide, and the antituberculosis drug isoniazid.
Balloon Sinuplasty Utilization in the Pediatric Population: A National Database Perspective
Authors: Thong Gerard , Dombrowski Natasha D. , Kawai Kosuke , Cunningham Michael J. , Adil Eelam A.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Balloon sinuplasty (BS) is a surgical management option in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. The purpose of this study was to examine BS utilization among children with a national database.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

National pediatric database.

Subjects and Methods

All cases of children aged ≤18 years who underwent BS or traditional endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) 5 years before and after the introduction of BS billing codes were studied with the Pediatric Health Information System database. We evaluated overall trends, demographics, performing physicians, readmissions, and cost data.

Results

A total of 14,079 patients met inclusion criteria: 13,555 underwent traditional ESS and 524 had a BS procedure. There was no significant increase in BS rates between 2011 and 2016. BS was more commonly performed among younger children than ESS (median age [interquartile range], 6 years [4‐10] vs 9 years [6‐13]; P <. 001). There were 23 (4.4%) readmissions within 30 days in the balloon cohort versus 474 (3.5%) in the ESS cohort. The median cost of balloon maxillary antrostomy (US $6560 [$5420‐$8250]) was higher than that of traditional maxillary antrostomy (US $5630 [$4130‐$7700], P <. 001). Physicians who performed BS had a larger volume of ESS procedures when compared with those who did not perform BS.

Conclusion

Rates of BS performance in the pediatric population have not increased over time. Results showed no difference in readmission rates between BS and ESS. BS was associated with higher costs as compared with ESS. The role of BS in the pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis population remains unclear.
Evidence‐Based Medicine in Otolaryngology Part 10: Cost‐Effectiveness Analyses in Otolaryngology
Authors: Caulley Lisa , Rodin Danielle , Kilty Shaun , Randolph Gregory , Hunink Myriam G. , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: June 2019

Clinicians seek to pursue the most clinically effective treatment strategies, but costs have also become a key determinant in contemporary health care. Economic analyses have thus emerged as a valuable resource to both quantify and qualify the value of existing and emerging interventions and programs. Cost‐effectiveness analyses estimate the benefits gained per monetary unit, providing insights to guide resource allocation. Herein, we delineate the related concepts and considerations to facilitate understanding and appraisal of these analyses, so as to better inform the stakeholders in our otolaryngology community.
Outcomes of Prophylactic Epiglottic Petiole Suspension at the Time of Complete Laryngofissure
Authors: Bergeron Mathieu , de Alarcon Alessandro , Hart Catherine K. , Rutter Michael J.
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To compare the clinical outcomes of patients with prophylactic petiole suspension (PPS) at the time of laryngofissure and patients without PPS.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Tertiary pediatric hospital from May 2003 to August 2017.

Subjects and Methods

Patients included those undergoing airway reconstruction with complete laryngofissure. Patients in the study group had PPS at the time of laryngofissure, while control group patients did not.

Results

Eighty‐one patients underwent complete laryngofissure (22 study patients, 59 controls) at a median age of 4.8 years (interquartile range, 2.1‐9.7). Patients in the control group were younger at the time of the surgery (3.7 vs 6.5 years, P =. 04). Other demographic and clinical data, including subglottic stenosis (SGS) grades, were similar. For patients with SGS, 53.8% and 46.2% in the study group had a grade 1‐2 and 3‐4 SGS, respectively, as compared with 46.2% and 53.8% in the control group (P =. 65). Manifestations of petiole prolapse included failure of decannulation (8.6%), exercise intolerance (16.0%), and obstructive sleep apnea (11.1%). After 4 years of follow‐up, 4.5% of the study group versus 27.1% of the control group had prolapse of the petiole (P =. 04). Petiole prolapsed affected >50% of patients with no PPS after 10 years of follow‐up. Patients with petiole prolapse at the first surveillance microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy after stent removal had an odds ratio of 10.2 (95% CI, 1.1‐94.8; P =. 04) of becoming symptomatic.

Conclusion

Patients with PPS had significantly fewer symptoms after complete laryngofissure as compared with patients without PPS. PPS should be considered when a complete laryngofissure is being performed during airway reconstruction.
Participatory Democracy or State-Induced Violence? Resettling the Displaced People of Hatirjheel in Dhaka
Authors: Nijhum Farzana Quader , Rahaman Sk. Towhidur , Hossain Mohd. Jamal , Islam Ishrat
Published: June 2019

This article discusses the trajectory of project implementation in the development of the Hatirjheel lake area in Dhaka, which involved forced relocation and socio-economic deprivation for most project-affected people. It raises questions over the extent to which such processes need to be seen as state-induced violations of basic justice, asking whether more justice-focused management of such projects is becoming an unrealistic expectation in an increasingly crowded Bangladesh. The article discusses the socio-political dynamics and community-related issues affecting different stakeholders during the implementation of the project. Despite the official presence of participatory planning techniques, the forceful imposition of the development plans and the drastic ramifications of forced land acquisition are shown to have violated basic principles of good governance. It is suggested that less violent and more inclusive approaches are possible despite resource scarcities and that lessons can be learned from such experiences for the future.
Board structure and earnings persistence: The mediation effect of board processes
Authors: Ranasinghe Dinithi , Mather Paul , Young Suzanne
Published: June 2019

Prior research has overlooked board processes and examined direct links between board structure and monitoring financial reporting with mixed results. We use an input–process–output heuristic model to argue that board processes mediate the association between board structure and earnings persistence. Our results support this assertion by showing the mediating effect of board processes and the impact on managerial behaviour in relation to monitoring financial reporting. We contribute to the accounting and finance literature by demonstrating the importance of examining alternative theoretical models and board-process variables, along with structure. This article also highlights the importance of establishing best-practice guidelines around board processes in governance regulations.

JEL Classification: M41, G34
Impact of tailor-made information literacy provision on rural dwellers’ participation in sustainable development targets in Nigeria:: Implications for public library services to oral societies
Authors: Uzuegbu Chimezie P.
Published: June 2019

This paper examined the impact of tailor-made information literacy provision on Nigerian rural dwellers’ participation in three sustainable development targets. A mixed method research design comprised of field experimental approach, site visit and focus group technique was used to collect data that answered the five questions raised in the study. From the findings, rural dwellers who received information literacy provision participated more in the sustainable development targets than their counterparts who depended only on the existing information communication systems accessible to them. Information literacy provision to a sample of 20 households had a spill-over effect on the behaviour of non-sampled households of the same village. In conclusion, the triangulation of methods used in this study showed that rural dwellers’ effective participation in development programmes can be achieved through contextual information literacy provision. This draws implications that are summarised into a model. Public libraries in Nigeria and in similar developing countries can explore the strategy conveyed in the model to launch effective outreach services to their rural dwellers.
How Well Does the DSM-5 Capture Schizoaffective Disorder?
Authors: Parker Gordon
Published: June 2019

Schizoaffective disorder has long been recognized and quite variably defined. It has been variably positioned as a discrete entity, a variant of either schizophrenia or of a mood disorder, as simply reflecting the co-occurrence of schizophrenia and a mood disorder, and effectively reflecting a diagnosis along a continuum linking schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This article considers historical views, some empirical data that advance consideration of its status, and focuses on its classification in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). DSM-5 criteria seemingly weight it in the direction of a schizophrenic illness, as do some empirical studies, whereas the empirical literature examining the response to lithium links it more closely to bipolar disorder. It is suggested that DSM-5’s B and C criteria are operationally unfeasible. Some suggestions are provided for a simpler definition.
Thermomechanical nonlinear stability of pressure-loaded functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite doubly curved panels with tangentially restrained edges
Authors: Trang Le Thi Nhu , Tung Hoang Van
Published: June 2019

Geometrically nonlinear response of doubly curved panels reinforced by carbon nanotubes exposed to thermal environments and subjected to uniform external pressure are presented in this paper. Carbon nanotubes are reinforced into isotropic matrix through uniform and functionally graded distributions. Material properties of constituents are assumed to be temperature dependent, and effective elastic moduli of carbon nanotube-reinforced composite are determined according to an extended rule of mixture. Basic equations for carbon nanotube-reinforced composite doubly curved panels are established within the framework of first-order shear deformation theory. Analytical solutions are assumed, and Galerkin method is used to derive closed-form expressions of nonlinear load–deflection relation. Separate and combined effects of carbon nanotube distribution and volume fraction, elasticity of in-plane constraint, elevated temperature, initial imperfection, geometrical ratios and stiffness of elastic foundations on the nonlinear stability of nanocomposite doubly curved panels are analyzed through numerical examples.
Holocene forest transformations in sandstone landscapes of the Czech Republic: Stand-scale comparison of charcoal and pollen records
Authors: Novák Jan , Abraham Vojtěch , Šída Petr , Pokorný Petr
Published: June 2019

Stand-scale palaeoecology in sandstone landscapes provides insight into contrasting Holocene forest succession trajectories. Sharp geomorphological gradients in this investigated area, which in addition have never been deforested during the Holocene, provide a good model for upscaling the local vegetation histories to the wider territory of Central Europe. In three sandstone areas – Bohemian Paradise, Polemené hory and Broumov – we compare (1) anthracological records from archaeological stratigraphies under rockshelters with (2) pedoanthracological sequences from nearby locations in valleys, rocks and plateaus; and with (3) pollen analyses carried out in nearby peat accumulations. Taphonomical vectors discriminate the source vegetation of each proxy, however thanks to proximity of all sampling sites pollen record and charcoals from rockshelters integrate the signal from pedoanthracology. The results show that past distribution of individual arboreal taxa is clearly related to the position within local environmental gradients. All basic habitats – valleys, rocky edges and plateaus – started with the dominance of pine forest in the early Holocene. Middle Holocene witnessed expansion of spruce inside valleys and oak on plateaus. Pine has maintained its dominance on rocky edges. In the late Holocene, silver fir and beech expanded into valleys, while oak stands remained dominant on plateaus. In the High Medieval and Modern Ages, human impact triggered general spread of fir. Records indicate site-specific local histories connected to various human activities, fire dynamics and erosion. Against the background of these immediate driving forces, the long-term process of ecosystem changes has been influenced by climate of the Holocene.
Integrating fire-scar, charcoal and fungal spore data to study fire events in the boreal forest of northern Europe
Authors: Stivrins Normunds , Aakala Tuomas , Ilvonen Liisa , Pasanen Leena , Kuuluvainen Timo , Vasander Harri , Gałka Mariusz , Disbrey Helena R , Liepins Janis , Holmström Lasse , Seppä Heikki
Published: June 2019

Fire is a major disturbance agent in the boreal forest, influencing many current and future ecosystem conditions and services. Surprisingly few studies have attempted to improve the accuracy of fire-event reconstructions even though the estimates of the occurrence of past fires may be biased, influencing the reliability of the models employing those data (e.g. C stock, cycle). This study aimed to demonstrate how three types of fire proxies – fire scars from tree rings, sedimentary charcoal and, for the first time in this context, fungal spores of Neurospora – can be integrated to achieve a better understanding of past fire dynamics. By studying charcoal and Neurospora from sediment cores from forest hollows, and the fire scars from tree rings in their surroundings in the southern Fennoscandian and western Russian boreal forest, we produced composite fire-event data sets and fire-event frequencies, and estimated fire return intervals. Our estimates show that the fire return interval varied between 126 and 237 years during the last 11,000 years. The highest fire frequency during the 18th–19th century can be associated with the anthropogenic influence. Importantly, statistical tests revealed a positive relationship between other fire event indicators and Neurospora occurrence allowing us to pinpoint past fire events at times when the sedimentary charcoal was absent, but Neurospora were abundant. We demonstrated how fire proxies with different temporal resolution can be linked, providing potential improvements in the reliability of fire history reconstructions from multiple proxies.
Association of ficolin-2 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus in Egyptian children and adolescents: a multicenter study
Authors: Elkoumi M A , Emam A A , Allah M A N , Sherif A H , Abdelaal N M , Mosabah AAA , Zakaria M T , Soliman M M , Salah A , Sedky Y M , Mashali M H , Elashkar S S A , Hafez S F M , Hashem M I A , Elshreif A M , Youssef MAA , Fahmy D S , Sallam M M , Nawara A M , Elgohary E A , Ahmed A A , Fahim M S , Fawzi M M , Abdou A M , Morsi S S , Abo-Alella D A , Malek M M , Anany H G , Sobeih A A , Elbasyouni H A A , El-Deeb F M
Published: June 2019

Background

Pediatric-onset SLE (pSLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease. Recently, the ficolin-2 (FCN2) gene has emerged as a potential candidate gene for susceptibility to SLE.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of the FCN2 gene polymorphisms at positions −986 (G/A), −602 (G/A), −4 (A/G) and SNP C/T (rs3124954) located in intron 1, with susceptibility to pSLE in Egyptian children and adolescents.

Methods

This was a multicenter study of 280 patients diagnosed with pSLE, and 280 well-matched healthy controls. The FCN2 promoter polymorphisms at –986 G/A (rs3124952), −602 G/A (rs3124953), −4 A/G (rs17514136) and SNP C/T (rs3124954) located in intron 1 were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction, while serum ficolin-2 levels were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The frequencies of the FCN2 GG genotype and G allele at −986 and −602 positions were significantly more represented in patients with pSLE than in controls ( p < 0.001). Conversely, the FCN2 AA genotype and A allele at position −4 were more common in patients than in controls ( p < 0.001). Moreover, patients carrying the FCN2 GG genotype in −986 position were more likely to develop lupus nephritis (odds ratio: 2.6 (95% confidence interval: 1.4–4.78); p = 0.006). The FCN2 AA genotype at position −4 was also identified as a possible risk factor for lupus nephritis (odds ratio: 3.12 (95% confidence interval: 1.25–7.84); p = 0.024).

Conclusion

The FCN2 promoter polymorphisms may contribute to susceptibility to pSLE in Egyptian children and adolescents. Moreover, the FCN2 GG genotype at position −986 and AA genotype at position −4 were associated with low serum ficolin-2 levels and may constitute risk factors for lupus nephritis in pSLE.
A systematic review of efficacy of Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) in managing suicide risk and deliberate self-harm in adult populations
Authors: Hanratty Donal , Kilicaslan Jan , Wilding Helen , Castle David
Published: June 2019

Objective:

Evaluate the efficacy of Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) in managing suicide risk and deliberate self-harm in adults.

Methods:

Ten databases were searched for publications referring to CAMS or the Suicide Status Form. Results were evaluated by two reviewers.

Results:

Limited evidence that CAMS is effective in reducing suicide risk and deliberate self-harm in adult populations.

Conclusions:

Although CAMS appears to show promise in managing suicidal patients across a range of measures, further evidence is needed to clarify its efficacy in managing suicide risk and deliberate self-harm.
Maternal Health Beliefs, Perceptions, and Experiences in a U.S. Marshallese Community
Authors: Ayers Britni L. , Purvis Rachel S. , Bing Williamina Ioanna , Ritok Mandy , Iban Anita , Capelle Lucy , Hawley Nicola L. , Delafield Rebecca , McElfish Pearl A.
Published: June 2019

Introduction: The purpose of this article is to review the beliefs, perceptions, and experience of maternal health among Marshallese women. Methodology: The study utilized a qualitative descriptive design with a brief survey of participant demographics. A purposive sample of 43 participants were enrolled. Results: The mean age of participants was 40 years. Four a priori themes were identified as follows: (a) family planning beliefs and experiences, (b) prenatal beliefs and experiences, (c) birthing beliefs and experiences, and (d) postpartum beliefs and experiences. Discussion: This study identified beliefs, perceptions, and experiences among Marshallese that have implications for policy and practice related to culturally congruent health care for Marshallese mothers.
Radiographic study of the development of the pelvis and hip and the femorotibial joints in domestic cats
Authors: Miranda Fernanda G , Souza Izabela P , Viegas Flávia M , Megda Tábata T , Nepomuceno Anelise C , Tôrres Renato CS , Rezende Cleuza MF
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The aims of the present study were to monitor, by radiographic examination, the skeletal development of the pelvis and the femorotibial joints of the domestic cat from the first week of life until the closing of the growth plates.

Methods

Radiographic examinations were collected from 15 domestic cats at weekly intervals during the first month and every 2 weeks from the second to the fourth month of age. After that, examinations were performed monthly until the age of 18 months.

Results

The ischiopubic growth plate closed at 2 months of age, followed by the fusion of the iliopubic, ilioischial, proximal femoral, greater trochanter and proximal fibular growth plates. The distal femur and proximal tibial growth plates were the last to close, with fusion occurring at 18 months. The mean time to closure of the iliopubic, ilioischial and distal femoral growth plates was shorter in females. The ossification centers first appeared, in ascending order, beginning with the lesser trochanter, followed by the greater trochanter, proximal fibular epiphysis, tibial tuberosity, patella, ischial tuberosity and lateral sesamoid of the popliteus muscle.

Conclusions and relevance

The complete closure of the growth plates of domestic cats occurs at approximately 18 months of age. Skeletal maturation at approximately 18 months of age is an important parameter to be considered in radiographic evaluation of certain skeletal changes, evolution of fractures and nutritional imbalance.
The effect of envelope components on thermal performance of rural houses in Hubei, China
Authors: Li Kun , Zhao Tian
Published: June 2019

Most farm houses in China are self-built. The process of design and construction of these houses generally lack theoretical and technical support logic and they do not comply with national standards. The objective of this research was to improve the thermal properties of farm houses in hot summer and cold winter regions of China. A rural house in Zijin Zhuang village, Hubei Province was selected to identify ways to improve its enclosure and the thermal performance of its building envelope. This paper considers the relationship between enclosure structure and thermal comfort, by quantitative comparison and analysis of thermal environmental data before and after refurbishment. DesignBuilder software was used to simulate the amount of energy consumed to attain the same indoor thermal comfort before and after the refurbishment. This study provides a reference exemplar for the construction of these farm houses in hot summer and cold winter areas.
Addressing the dichotomy of brand love
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Hussain Khalid , Hou Fujun
Published: June 2019

Is love experienced for a brand an emotion (casually labeled as brand love)? Yes, /may be! Is “brand love” an emotion? No.
Integration methods for distributed sound sources
Authors: Merino-Martínez Roberto , Sijtsma Pieter , Carpio Alejandro Rubio , Zamponi Riccardo , Luesutthiviboon Salil , Malgoezar Anwar MN , Snellen Mirjam , Schram Christophe , Simons Dick G
Published: June 2019

Most acoustic imaging methods assume the presence of point sound sources and, hence, may fail to correctly estimate the sound emissions of distributed sound sources, such as trailing-edge noise. In this contribution, three integration techniques are suggested to overcome this issue based on models considering a single point source, a line source, and several line sources, respectively. Two simulated benchmark cases featuring distributed sound sources are employed to compare the performance of these integration techniques with respect to other well-known acoustic imaging methods. The considered integration methods provide the best performance in retrieving the source levels and require short computation times. In addition, the negative effects of the presence of unwanted noise sources, such as corner sources in wind-tunnel measurements, can be eliminated. A sensitivity analysis shows that the integration technique based on a line source is robust with respect to the choice of the integration area (shape, position, and mesh fineness). This technique is applied to a trailing-edge-noise experiment in an open-jet wind tunnel featuring a NACA 0018 airfoil. The location and far-field noise emissions of the trailing-edge line source were calculated.
Simulation analysis of key technology optimization of 5G mobile communication network based on Internet of Things technology
Authors: Yan Guo
Published: June 2019

With the rapid development of mobile Internet and Internet of Things business, the 5G mobile communication process has been accelerated. This article summarizes the Internet technology under 5G mobile communication, analyses the connotation of Internet of Things, and studies the integration of 5G mobile communications and Internet of Things technology. Through the analysis and discussion of the new possibilities in the Internet of Things era under 5G mobile communication technology, the research shows that the simulation analysis combined with the cell breathing technology and the base station dormancy technology aims to decrease the energy consumption of the base station under the premise of ensuring the communication quality, thereby improving the network energy efficiency. Research shows that in the dense and uniform user distribution scenario, the power consumption has a small decrease due to the increase of power consumption, but the system capacity is significantly improved and the communication quality is improved. It can ensure the user’s fairness and system capacity to achieve, and meet the rate requirements of different users. The analog results verify the accuracy of the theoretical analysis.
Cooperative, reliable, and stability-aware routing for underwater wireless sensor networks
Authors: Ali Munsif , Khan Anwar , Mahmood Hasan , Bhatti Naeeem
Published: June 2019

In underwater wireless sensor networks, stability and reliability of the network are of paramount importance. Stability of the network ensures persistent operation of the network that, in consequence, avoids data loss when nodes consume all the battery power and subject to death. Particularly, nodes bearing a low pressure of water die early in the usual routing approach due to being preferred choices for data routing. Reliability ensures minimization of the adverse channel effects on data packets so that the desired information is easily extracted from these packets. This article proposes two routing protocols for underwater wireless sensor networks: reliable and stability-aware routing and cooperative reliable and stability-aware routing. In reliable and stability-aware routing, energy assignment to a node is made on the basis of its depth. Sensor nodes having the lowest depth are assigned the highest amount of energy. This energy assignment is called the energy grade of a node and five energy grades are formed in the proposed network from top to bottom. The energy grade along with energy residing in a node battery and its depth decide its selection as a forwarder node. The reliable and stability-aware routing uses only a single link to forward packets. Such a link may not be reliable always. To overcome this issue, the cooperative reliable and stability-aware routing is proposed which introduces cooperative routing to reliable and stability-aware routing. Cooperative routing involves the reception of multiple copies of data symbols by destination. This minimizes the adverse channel effects on data packets and makes the information extraction convenient and less cumbersome at the final destination. Unlike the conventional approach, the proposed schemes do not take into account the coordinates of nodes for defining the routing trajectories, which is challenging in underwater medium. Simulation results reveal a better behavior of the proposed protocols than some competitive schemes in terms of providing stability to the network, packet transfer to the ultimate destination, and latency.
Analysis and optimization of nonlinear carrying performance of hydrostatic ram based on finite difference method and Runge–Kutta method
Authors: Wang Yumo , Liu Zhifeng , Cheng Qiang , Zhao Yongsheng , Wang Yida , Cai Ligang
Published: June 2019

Analyzing of nonlinear carrying performance of hydrostatic ram is among key research questions to improve heavy machine tools because the machining precision will be directly influenced by it. A dynamic model of nonlinear supporting characters for hydrostatic ram is developed in this work. Modified Reynolds equation is resolved by finite difference method numerically to determine the carrying capability. Dynamic equilibrium equation of hydrostatic ram under cutting force impact is solved by Runge–Kutta method to obtain the variation of tool tip position and evaluate the machining accuracy. An optimal oil supply rate allocation and oil pad size is proposed to improve the static and dynamic performance simultaneously based on method of bisection.
Dynamic angular velocity turning for extremum seeking control of a two-dimensional mobile robot with external disturbances
Authors: Wang Yibin , Li Huilin , Sun Xiaoying , Chen Hua
Published: June 2019

In this article, the extremum seeking control of a two-dimensional mobile robot with external disturbances is discussed by applying dynamic angular velocity turning method. First, the extremum seeking scheme is proposed to describe the trajectory of the two-dimensional robot and to achieve extreme value optimization through dynamic feedback. Secondly, the method of finite-time control and dynamic feedback is proposed to ensure that the dynamic angular velocity converges to the virtual controller within a finite time. Thirdly, the sliding mode disturbance observer is designed to guarantee that the observer converges to an unknown disturbance in finite time. Furthermore, we allow the averaging method and the results are applied in stability analysis. Finally, our control scheme is feasible by a series of simulations.
Pragmatic influences on sentence integration: Evidence from eye movements
Authors: Chen Lijing , Paterson Kevin B , Li Xingshan , Li Lin , Yang Yufang
Published: June 2019

To understand a discourse, readers must rapidly process semantic and syntactic information and extract the pragmatic information these sources imply. An important question concerns how this pragmatic information influences discourse processing in return. We address this issue in two eye movement experiments that investigate the influence of pragmatic inferences on the processing of inter-sentence integration. In Experiments 1a and 1b, participants read two-sentence discourses in Chinese in which the first sentence introduced an event and the second described its consequence, where the sentences were linked using either the causal connective “suoyi” (meaning “so” or “therefore”) or not. The second sentence included a target word that was unmarked or marked using the focus particle “zhiyou” (meaning “only”) in Experiment 1a or “shi” (equivalent to an it-cleft) in Experiment 1b. These particles have the pragmatic function of implying a contrast between a target element and its alternatives. The results showed that while the causal connective facilitated the processing of unmarked words in causal contexts (a connective facilitation effect), this effect was eliminated by the presence of the focus particle. This implies that contrastive information is inferred sufficiently rapidly during reading that it can influence semantic processes involved in sentence integration. Experiment 2 showed that disruption due to conflict between the processing requirements of focus and inter-sentence integration occurred only in causal and not adversative connective contexts, confirming that processing difficulty occurred when a contrastive relationship was not possible.
Dorsal Dupuytren’s disease: a systematic review of published cases and treatment options
Authors: Carloni Raphael , Gandolfi Silvia , Elbaz Benedicte , Bonmarchand Albane , Beccari Roberto , Auquit-Auckbur Isabelle
Published: June 2019

Dorsal lesions in Dupuytren’s disease are rare and data concerning their epidemiology and management are sparse. We conducted a systematic review to summarize reported cases of dorsal Dupuytren’s disease. Pubmed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched from 1893 to 2018, and 17 articles were selected (525 patients). The male to female ratio was 3.8:1. The dorsal disease was bilateral in 225 patients (50%). The index was the most commonly affected finger (48 patients). The proximal interphalangeal joint was the most commonly affected (484 cases). The most frequently reported lesions were knuckle pads (503 patients), dorsal nodules between interphalangeal joints (14 patients), boutonnière deformities (12 patients), and swan-neck deformities (2 patients). Nearly half of the included patients were treated surgically. Postoperative functional result depended on the treated lesion. Most of the included studies had a low level of evidence. Higher-quality studies are necessary to confirm our findings.
Efficacy and tolerability of Roystonea regia lipid extract (D-004) and terazosin in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia: a 6-month study
Authors: Guzmán Raúl , Fernández Julio C. , Pedroso Manuel , Fernández Lilia , Illnait José , Mendoza Sarahí , Quiala Ana T. , Rodríguez Zunilda , Mena Jilma , Rodíguez Aylim , Campos Marbelis , Sánchez Carlos , Alvarez Yanet , Jiménez Gladys
Published: June 2019

Background:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common urological disease in aging men, frequently produces lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Clinical studies have shown that terazosin relaxes the smooth muscle of the prostate and bladder, facilitates bladder emptying, improves LUTS, increases maximum urinary flow, and reduces the residual volume of urine. D-004, a lipid extract of the fruit of the Cuban royal palm ( Roystonea regia), presents a similar efficacy to Saw palmetto. Clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy and safety in short- and medium-term trials in patients with BPH. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of D-004 with terazosin for 6 months on LUTS in patients with BPH.

Methods:

The present phase III study had an open, randomized, comparative design, with two parallel groups who received D-004 (320 mg/day) or terazosin (5 mg/day) for 6 months. The study included men at least 50 years of age, with evidence of the LUTS of moderate intensity according to the International Symptoms of the Prostate (IPSS). The effects on the IPSS Scale was the primary efficacy variable. The effects on the size of the prostate and the residual volume were secondary variables. The subjective self-perception of symptom relief at trial completion was a collateral outcome. Analysis was done by intention-to-treat.

Results:

The study included 100 men with a diagnosis of BPH, confirmed by digital rectal examination and ultrasonography, and moderate LUTS (IPSS score >7, <19). Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. Nine patients did not continue the study: one from group D-004 (due to protocol violation) and eight from the terazosin group (six due to adverse events and two due to protocol violation; p < 0.01). D-004 and terazosin significantly reduced the IPSS scores at the end of the 6 months of therapy by 74.2% and 66.1%, respectively, with respect to baseline values. Comparisons between groups performed showed that, at the end of the treatment, D-004 was more effective ( p < 0.05) than terazosin in reducing the IPSS score. Although the average size of the prostate was reduced in both groups, this reduction reached statistical significance only for D-004. On the other hand, postvoid residual volume was significantly and similarly reduced in both groups. Both treatments were safe, while D-004 was better tolerated than terazosin.

Conclusions:

D-004 administered at a dose of 320 mg/day for 6 months showed comparable efficacy with terazosin (5 mg/day) in reducing the LUTS (IPSS score), producing a significant decrease in prostate volume and postvoid residual volume. Both treatments were safe, with better tolerability for D-004 as compared with terazosin.
Genetic counselling and testing in adults with congenital heart disease: A consensus document of the ESC Working Group of Grown-Up Congenital Heart Disease, the ESC Working Group on Aorta and Peripheral Vascular Disease and the European Society of Human Genetics
Authors: De Backer Julie , Bondue Antoine , Budts Werner , Evangelista Arturo , Gallego Pastora , Jondeau Guillaume , Loeys Bart , Peña Maria L , Teixido-Tura Gisela , van de Laar Ingrid , Verstraeten Aline , Roos Hesselink Jolien
Published: June 2019

Thanks to a better knowledge of the genetic causes of many diseases and an improvement in genetic testing techniques, genetics has gained an important role in the multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease and aortic pathology. With the introduction of strategies for precision medicine, it is expected that this will only increase further in the future. Because basic knowledge of the indications, the opportunities as well as the limitations of genetic testing is essential for correct application in clinical practice, this consensus document aims to give guidance to care-providers involved in the follow-up of adults with congenital heart defects and/or with hereditary aortic disease. This paper is the result of a collaboration between the ESC Working Group of Grown-Up Congenital Heart Disease, the ESC Working Group on Aorta and Peripheral Vascular Disease and the European Society of Human Genetics. Throughout the document, the importance of correct counseling in the process of genetic testing is emphasized, indications and timing for genetic studies are discussed as well as the technical modalities of genetic testing. Finally, the most important genetic diseases in adult congenital heart disease and aortic pathology are also discussed.
Increased blood pressure variability after acute ischemic stroke increases the risk of death: A secondary analysis of the Virtual International Stroke Trial Archive
Authors: de Havenon Adam , Stoddard Greg , Saini Monica , Wong Ka-Ho , Tirschwell David , Bath Phillip ,   on behalf of the VISTA-Acute Collaborators
Published: June 2019

Background

Despite promising epidemiological data, it remains unclear if increased blood pressure variability is associated with death after acute ischemic stroke. Our objective was to examine this association in a large cohort of acute ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of anonymized, pooled, participant data from the Virtual International Stroke Trial Archive. We included patients with a 90-day modified Rankin Scale and blood pressure readings in the 24 h after study enrollment. The exposure was blood pressure variability during the day after study enrollment, calculated for the systolic and diastolic blood pressure using six statistical methodologies. The primary outcome was death within 90 days of stroke onset.

Results

Our cohort comprised 1891 patients of whom 277 (14.7%) died within 90 days. All indices of blood pressure variability were higher in patients who died, but the difference was more pronounced for systolic than diastolic blood pressure variability (systolic standard deviation for alive versus dead patients = 13.4 versus 15.9 mmHg, p < 0.001). Similar results were found in logistic regression models fit to the outcome of death, but only systolic blood pressure variability remained significant in adjusted models (Odds Ratio for death when comparing highest to lowest tercile of systolic blood pressure variability = 1.41–1.89, p < 0.03 for all). Conclusions and relevance: These results reinforce prior studies that found increased blood pressure variability is associated with worse neurologic outcome after stroke. These data should help guide research on blood pressure variability after stroke and advocate for the inclusion of death as a clinical outcome in future studies that therapeutically reduce blood pressure variability.
“They Labeled Me Ignorant”: Narratives of Maltese Youth With Dyslexia on National Examinations
Authors: Camilleri Stephen , Chetcuti Deborah , Falzon Ruth
Published: June 2019

Examinations have a significant impact on well-being as they provide qualifications for entry into further education and employment. Research suggests that students with dyslexia experience greater challenges than their counterparts. This article explored the views of eight students with dyslexia, the challenges they face, and what they believe could make national examinations “fairer.” The Maltese educational system has a Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) at the end of compulsory education (16 years) and Matriculation (MATSEC) for postsecondary schooling (18 years). Narrative interviews and a thematic approach using discourse analysis presented participants’ voices in prose and strophes. Narratives evidence difficulties and abilities. Students criticized the unnecessary examination stress and anxiety caused by misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about dyslexia. Youth referred to “fairness” of examinations, which they equated with “sameness.” They believe that examinations could be fairer by being given compensatory measures without compromising the examinations’ objectives.