bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Factors Influencing Communication in Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Yao Dongning , Jiang Liang , Huang Yuankai , Chen Lei , Wang Yitao , Xi Xiaoyu
Published: February 2018

This study aimed to identify and assess the factors that influence communication quality between clinical pharmacists and patients using a structural equation model based on the predisposing, reinforcing, and enabling constructs in educational/environmental diagnosis and evaluation–policy, regulatory, and organizational constructs in educational and ecological development model to identify the most effective path to increase their communication quality. A survey was conducted at 253 Class-A tertiary hospitals in China from March to December 2016. During on-site observations, verbal communications between clinical pharmacists ( n = 752) and patients were audio recorded, and communication quality was rated by an expert panel on an 8-item Quality of Communication Rating Scale. Clinical pharmacists completed questionnaires that examined the predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors that influenced communication quality. Finally, AMOS was employed to examine the relationships between the three factors and communication quality. The results indicated that all three factors positively affected communication quality, with correlation coefficients of .26, .13, and .17, respectively. The most influential predisposing factor was attitude (.77), the most influential enabling factors were self-efficacy (.71) and confidence (.72), and the most influential reinforcing factor was rewards (.74). The findings suggest that pharmacists’ attitudes toward, perceived knowledge of, and skill and confidence in communication, and the rewards offered by pharmacy management are the most influential factors that influence communication quality.
Maternal emotional support but not cognitive support during problem-solving predicts increases in cognitive flexibility in early childhood
Authors: Zeytinoglu Selin , Calkins Susan D. , Leerkes Esther M.
Published: February 2018

Cognitive flexibility is a sophisticated form of executive functions that predicts a range of adaptive outcomes; however, little is known about which caregiving behaviors predict the rapid improvements in children’s cognitive flexibility during early childhood. This study examined whether ordinary variations in mothers’ provision of emotional and cognitive support during problem-solving predict children’s cognitive flexibility and tested whether children’s cognitive flexibility predicts caregiving behaviors across time. Two hundred and seventy-eight children and their caregivers (96% mothers) participated in laboratory visits when children were in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade. At each visit, cognitive flexibility was measured via a computerized version of the Dimensional Change Card Sort task and mothers’ behaviors were observed during a semi-structured problem-solving board game task. Results from autoregressive cross-lagged structural regression analyses indicated that mothers’ emotional support predicted greater child cognitive flexibility from preschool to kindergarten, and from kindergarten to first grade, after accounting for the stability in these constructs over time and controlling for the influence of maternal education, and child age and minority status. Mothers’ cognitive support did not predict child cognitive flexibility over time. Child cognitive flexibility did not lead to changes in caregiving behaviors over time. Findings suggest that mothers’ provision of emotional support during problem-solving may be an important proximal mechanism that contributes to children’s cognitive flexibility across early childhood.
Media discourses surrounding ‘non-ideal’ victims: The case of the Ashley Madison data breach
Authors: Cross Cassandra , Parker Megan , Sansom Daniel
Published: February 2018

Data breaches are an increasingly common event across businesses globally. Many companies have been subject to large-scale breaches. Consequently, the exposure of 37 million customers of the Ashley Madison website is not an extraordinary event in and of itself. However, Ashley Madison is an online dating website predominantly known for facilitating extramarital affairs. Therefore, the nature of this website (and business) is very different from those that have previously been breached. This article examines one of the media discourses surrounding the victims of the Ashley Madison data breach. It particular, it illustrates examples of victim blaming evident in the print media towards individuals (or customers) who had their personal details exposed. Importantly, it highlights the emerging tension within this particular case, of the strong victim blaming narrative contrasted against those who attempted to challenge this discourse and refocus attention on the actual offenders, and the criminality of the act. The article concludes that victims of this data breach were exposed to victim blaming, based on the perceived immorality of the website they were connected to and their actions in subscribing, rather than focusing on the data breach itself, and the blatant criminality of the offenders who exposed the sensitive information.
The Normative Nature of Aggressive Intrusive Thinking Among an Underserved Incarcerated Population Compared With a Student Sample
Authors: DeLapp Ryan C. T. , Chasson Gregory S. , Swerbilow Jessica , Gibby Brittany , Tellawi Ghazel , Williams Monnica T.
Published: February 2018

Aggressive intrusive thoughts (AITs) are unwanted and repetitive thoughts, impulses, or desires that enter into consciousness involuntarily. The current study compared the frequency of and distress from AITs in a sample of inmates jailed for violent crimes ( n = 78) versus college students ( n = 103; that is, participant status). The relationship between psychopathic traits and AITs was also explored. Results indicated that, although there were no differences between students and inmates, AIT frequency was positively associated with Primary Psychopathy. However, there was no significant interaction between participant status (i.e., inmate vs. student) and psychopathy. Finally, there were no significant main or interactions effects in the model predicting AIT distress. These findings demonstrate that AIT frequency is a normative cognitive experience that occurs in both nonviolent and violent individuals, and provides further evidence for an association between psychopathic traits and unwanted aggressive cognition.
N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide as a cardiac biomarker in Japanese hemodialysis patients
Authors: Shimizu Minako , Doi Shigehiro , Nakashima Ayumu , Naito Takayuki , Masaki Takao
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

This study examined the clinical significance of N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide level as a cardiac marker in Japanese hemodialysis patients.

Methods:

This was a multicenter cross-sectional study involving 1428 Japanese hemodialysis patients. Ultrasonic cardiography data at post-hemodialysis were obtained from 395 patients. We examined whether serum N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide levels were associated with cardiac parameters and assessed cut-off values and investigated factors associated with a reduced ratio of N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide levels pre- and post-hemodialysis.

Results:

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that pre- and post-hemodialysis N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide levels were associated with left ventricular hypertrophy on electrocardiogram (odds ratio: 3.10; p < 0.001 at pre-hemodialysis and odds ratio: 2.70; p < 0.001 at post-hemodialysis) and left ventricular hypertrophy on ultrasonic cardiography (odds ratio: 3.06; p < 0.001 at pre-hemodialysis and odds ratio: 3.15; p < 0.001 at post-hemodialysis). Post-N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide levels were also significantly associated with ejection fraction on urine chorionic gonadotrophin (ultrasonic cardiography; odds ratio: 35.83; p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curves for predicting the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy on electrocardiogram and ultrasonic cardiography showed similar sensitivity (57.7%, 57.3% at pre-hemodialysis and 63.9%, 48.2% at post-hemodialysis) and specificity (66.5%, 72.9% at pre-hemodialysis and 59.2%, 81.9% at post-hemodialysis). Decreased ejection fraction on ultrasonic cardiography showed better sensitivity (78.6%) and specificity (88.7%). The N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide reduction ratio during a hemodialysis session correlated with Kt/V, membrane area, membrane type, modality, body weight gain ratio, treatment time, and ultrafiltration rate with multiple linear regression ( R: 0.53; p < 0.001 except for ultrafiltration rate ( p = 0.003)).

Conclusion:

Both pre- and post-hemodialysis N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide are associated with the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy in this population. The post-hemodialysis N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide level is a useful marker for systolic dysfunction.
Endothelial and beta cell composite aggregates for improved function of a bioartificial pancreas encapsulation device
Authors: Skrzypek Katarzyna , Barrera Yazmin Brito , Groth Thomas , Stamatialis Dimitrios
Published: February 2018

Introduction:

Encapsulation of pancreatic islets or beta cells is a promising strategy for treatment of type 1 diabetes by providing an immune isolated environment and allowing for transplantation in a different location than the liver. However, islets used for encapsulation often show lower functionality due to the damaging of islet endothelial cells during the isolation procedure. Factors produced by endothelial cells have great impact on beta cell insulin secretion. Therefore, mutual signaling between endothelial cells and beta cells should be considered for the development of encapsulation systems to achieve high insulin secretion and maintain beta cell viability. Here, we investigate whether co-culture of beta cells with endothelial cells could improve beta cell function within encapsulation devices.

Materials and methods:

Mouse insulinoma MIN6 cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were used for creating composite aggregates on agarose microwell platform. The composite aggregates were encapsulated within flat poly(ether sulfone)/polyvinylpyrrolidone device. Their functionality was assessed by glucose-induced insulin secretion test and compared to non-encapsulated free-floating aggregates.

Results:

We created composite aggregates of 80–100 µm in diameter, closely mimicking pancreatic islets. Upon glucose stimulation, their insulin secretion is improved in comparison to aggregates consisting of only MIN6 cells. Moreover, the composite aggregates encapsulated within a device secrete more insulin than aggregates consisting of only MIN6 cells.

Conclusion:

Composite aggregates of MIN6 cells with human umbilical vein endothelial cells have improved insulin secretion in comparison to MIN6 aggregates showing that the interaction of beta cell and endothelial cell is crucial for a functional encapsulation system.
Total artificial heart implantation in a young Marfan syndrome patient
Authors: Rao Prashant , Keenan Jack B , Rajab Taufiek K , Kim Samuel , Smith Richard , Amabile Orazio , Khalpey Zain
Published: February 2018

Introduction:

Cardiovascular complications represent the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with Marfan syndrome. Here, we describe a unique case where a total artificial heart was implanted in a young Marfan syndrome woman.

Methods:

A 22-year-old postpartum African American female with Marfan syndrome developed multiple severe valve dysfunction and biventricular failure that was refractory to medical management. She previously had a Bentall procedure for Type A aortic dissection and repair of a Type B dissection.

Results:

We implanted a total artificial heart with a good outcome.

Conclusion:

Total artificial heart is a durable option for severe biventricular failure and multiple valvular dysfunction as a bridge to transplant in a young patient with Marfan syndrome.
Shear bond strength of ceramic brackets bonded to surface-treated feldspathic porcelain after thermocycling
Authors: Cevik Pinar , Eraslan Oguz , Eser Kursat , Tekeli Suleyman
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of six different surface conditioning methods on the shear bond strength of ceramic brackets bonded to feldspathic porcelain.

Materials and methods:

A total of 60 feldspathic porcelain disks were fabricated and divided into six subgroups including 10 specimens in each. Specimens were first treated one of the following surface conditioning methods, namely, 37% phosphoric acid (G-H3PO4), 9.4% hydrofluoric acid (G-HF), grinding with diamond burs (G-Grinding), Nd:YAG laser (G-Nd:YAG), Airborne-particle abrasion (G-Abrasion). Specimens were also coated with silane without surface treatment for comparison (G-Untreated). A total of 60 ceramic brackets were bonded to porcelain surfaces with a composite resin and then subjected to thermocycling 2500× between 5°C and 55°C. The shear bond strength test was carried out using a universal testing device at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Failure types were classified according to the adhesive remnant index. Analysis of variance and Tukey tests were used for statistical analysis (α = 0.05). Microstructure of untreated and surface-treated specimens was investigated by scanning electron microscopy.

Results:

Using G-Abrasion specimens resulted in the highest shear bond strength value of 8.58 MPa for feldspathic porcelain. However, the other specimens showed lower values: G-Grinding (6.51 MPa), G-Nd:YAG laser (3.37 MPa), G-HF (2.71 MPa), G-H3PO4 (1.17 MPa), and G-Untreated (0.93 MPa).

Conclusion:

Airborne-particle abrasion and grinding can be used as surface treatment techniques on the porcelain surface for a durable bond strength. Hydrofluoric acid and phosphoric acid etching methods were not convenient as surface treatment methods for the feldspathic porcelain.
Staff Perceptions of Adult Day Centers Providing Post-Acute Care for Persons With Dementia
Authors: Dabelko-Schoeny Holly , Shin Ji Won , Kowal Emily , Overcash Janine , Caterino Jeffrey M. , Happ Mary Beth
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the perception of adult day services (ADS) staff and hospital discharge planners regarding the feasibility of ADS to provide post-acute care (PAC) for persons with dementia. We conducted key informant interviews with emergency department (ED) and inpatient hospital discharge planners ( n = 9), and two focus groups with ADS staff ( n = 15) representing five ADS programs. Four thematic categories were identified from the discharge planners, including concerns for patients, factors influencing discharge, experience with ADS, and conditions for ADS referrals. Four categories identified from ADS staff interviews include public lack of knowledge of ADS, communication challenges, ADS to prevent hospitalization and ED visits, and barriers to providing PAC. Lack of knowledge about ADS, the role of family in PAC decisions, and the lack of reimbursement for PAC in ADS were identified as the most significant drivers in the ability of ADS to provide PAC.
The Effects of Politicization on Performance: The Mediating Role of HRM Practices
Authors: Fuenzalida Javier , Riccucci Norma M.
Published: February 2018

Since politicization persists, threatening public sector governance and management, there is a need to further understand this phenomenon and its consequences. Previous empirical studies conducted predominantly in the United States have found a negative impact of politicization on performance; however, the reasons behind this relationship remain elusive. In this article, we inquire into the effect of politicization on organizational performance, and we propose that such influence can be explained by a deterioration of human resource management (HRM) practices. Using data from a national survey of municipal managers and mayors in Chile, our results confirm the negative impact of politicization on the performance of public agencies, which is partially mediated by politicization’s deleterious effect on their HRM practices.
A Comparison of Spastic Diplegia in Term and Preterm-Born Children
Authors: Jauhari Prashant , Singhi Pratibha , Sankhyan Naveen , Malhi Prahbhjot , Vyas Sameer , Khandelwal Niranjan
Published: February 2018

This study compared the risk factors and clinical and radiologic profile of children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy born at term (≥37 weeks) with those born preterm. Children (2-14 years) with cerebral palsy meeting the study criteria for spastic diplegia were enrolled. Antecedent risk factors, clinical profile, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were recorded. Spasticity, functional ability, intellectual ability, and social quotient were assessed using standard scales. Ninety-three children met the study inclusion criteria (45 term, 48 preterm). Moderate to severe intellectual disability (53% vs 21%, P = .001) and epilepsy (51% vs 33%) were significantly more common in term-born children, whereas periventricular white matter injury was less common in term-born children (64%vs 89.4%, P = .004). Term spastic diplegia was associated with cortical/subcortical involvement in (11/42 (26%) vs 3/47(6.4%); P = .01). We conclude that term-spastic-diplegia is clinicopathologically different from preterm-spastic-diplegia. Their neuroradiologic pattern also differs with more frequent involvement of cortical/subcortical areas.
Job-Embedded Professional Development for Teachers of English Learners: Preventing Literacy Difficulties Through Effective Core Instruction
Authors: Cavazos Linda , Linan-Thompson Sylvia , Ortiz Alba
Published: February 2018

This mixed methods descriptive study examined the effects of job-embedded professional development (JEPD) in reading on the content knowledge and instructional practice of teachers of English learners (ELs). Four first-grade teachers of ELs at one urban elementary school received JEPD over the course of a year. Results of pre- and posttests of teacher knowledge and classroom observations indicated that teachers’ reading content knowledge increased and that they used more evidence-based practices. JEPD shows promise as an approach that accommodates teachers’ varying levels of knowledge and experience in preparing them to meet the diverse needs of their students.
Clinical Outcomes of Student Pharmacist–Driven Medication Histories at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Gortney Justine S. , Moser Lynette R. , Patel Priyasha , Raub Joshua N.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Many studies have shown the positive impact that student pharmacists have on patients’ health; however, no studies have been published evaluating student pharmacists’ impact on direct patient outcomes (ie, readmission, emergency department [ED] visits, length of stay) related to the medication history process.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of student pharmacist–obtained medication histories on identification of medication discrepancies and clinical outcomes.

Methods:

Student pharmacists obtained medication histories and then compared the history to that obtained by other health-care providers. Students documented discrepancies and interventions were completed. Control patients were identified and discharge medication list and 30-day readmissions were compared.

Results:

Seventeen students conducted 215 patient interviews, and 1848 modifications were made to documented home medications in the electronic medical record. Compared to controls (n = 148 student pharmacist, 149 controls), a nonsignificant improvement was found in discharge medication list completeness scores in patients seen by student pharmacists (3.94 vs 3.63; P = .06); but no difference was found in accuracy scores (0.92 vs 0.93; P = .41). Fewer ED visits at 30 days were found in the student pharmacist group (8 vs 18; P = .045), with no difference in readmissions.

Conclusions:

Student pharmacist–obtained medication histories improved the information available for identifying drug-related problems for inpatients, completeness of the discharge medication list, and ED visits within 30 days.
Associated Mortality of Liberal Fluid Administration in Sepsis
Authors: Johnson Mathew R. , Reed T. Patrick , Lowe Denise K. , Cahoon William D.
Published: February 2018

Fluid resuscitation, to restore intravascular volume and improve oxygen delivery, is a crucial step in early resuscitation efforts of patients with sepsis or septic shock. The 2016 Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines suggest the use of dynamic versus static measures of fluid responsiveness and fluid resuscitation with at least 30 mL/kg of intravenous crystalloid within the first 3 hours followed by fluid administration if hemodynamic factors continue to improve. Despite these recommendations, risks to this practice may exist as multiple studies have demonstrated an association between a positive fluid balance and/or administration of large fluid volume and increase in mortality. These studies are limited by variations in their methodologic design; therefore, cause and effect cannot yet be determined. Future multicenter, randomized, controlled studies that evaluate fluid balance and fluid volume need to be conducted to clarify the role of fluid administration to patients with sepsis to maximize benefits and minimize risk.
Third-order chord error estimation for freeform contour in computer-aided manufacturing and computer numerical control systems
Authors: Du Xu , Huang Jie , Zhu Li-Min , Ding Han
Published: February 2018

The chord error employed in computer-aided manufacturing and computer numerical control systems is a crucial index to evaluate the machining accuracy of machined parts. It is usually estimated by the second-order method, that is, the osculating circle method. The second-order estimation only takes the curvature of the curve into account, which will bring about great estimation error when applying to freeform curves. In this article, a third-order method that estimates the chord error using conical helices is proposed. By investigating the geometric properties of the conical helix, it is found that there exists a conical helix that has third-order contact with the freeform curve. With the aid of this conical helix, a third-order model for estimating the chord error of freeform curves is developed. Numerical examples of three freeform curves are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed estimation model.
Do People Inherently Dislike Uncertain Advice?
Authors: Gaertig Celia , Simmons Joseph P.
Published: February 2018

Research suggests that people prefer confident to uncertain advisors. But do people dislike uncertain advice itself? In 11 studies ( N = 4,806), participants forecasted an uncertain event after receiving advice and then rated the quality of the advice (Studies 1–7, S1, and S2) or chose between two advisors (Studies 8–9). Replicating previous research, our results showed that confident advisors were judged more favorably than advisors who were “not sure.” Importantly, however, participants were not more likely to prefer certain advice: They did not dislike advisors who expressed uncertainty by providing ranges of outcomes, giving numerical probabilities, or saying that one event is “more likely” than another. Additionally, when faced with an explicit choice, participants were more likely to choose an advisor who provided uncertain advice over an advisor who provided certain advice. Our findings suggest that people do not inherently dislike uncertain advice. Advisors benefit from expressing themselves with confidence, but not from communicating false certainty.
Experimental study on operator-based robust nonlinear vibration control for an L-shaped arm with unknown load
Authors: Wu Yanfeng , Deng Mingcong
Published: February 2018

A linear-motor-driven L-shaped arm experimental system is studied in this article. The arm with unknown load is driven by the motor and actuated by a piezoelectric actuator at the same time. This study aims to control the motor motion and the actuator’s behavior simultaneously, resulting in less arm vibration. First, the arm vibration relating to the load and the linear motor is modeled by considering it as an Euler–Bernoulli beam. Then, the control design for the arm and motor is proposed using the operator-based nonlinear control approach involving an on-line discrete wavelet transform. The operator-based right coprime factorization is used to ensure the system stable and robust. The discrete wavelet transform is utilized to remove the influences of some undesired disturbances and improve the operator-based control performance. In addition, the load mass is estimated using fast Fourier transform based on the discrete wavelet transform decomposed vibration signal. Finally, experiments are conducted comparing with the previous study, and the results show that the proposed control is effective to reduce the arm vibration in less time.
Dr Amos G Babcock – fact or fiction?
Authors: Smith Douglas
Published: February 2018

The War of 1812–1814 between the United States of America and Great Britain gave rise to several journals relating the sufferings of prisoners of war confined in prison ships and gaols in England. One of these is A journal of a young man of Massachusetts, said to have been written by Dr Amos G Babcock, an American ship’s surgeon, and first published in 1816. This article sets out arguments for and against the truth of this assertion.
The Economic Impact of Ecotourism on Regional China: Further Evidence from Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces
Authors: Li Yan , Sun Qin , Bandara Yapa M. W. Y. , Sharma Kishor , Hicks John , Basu P. K.
Published: February 2018

This article contributes to the literature on the economic impact of ecotourism in regional China with a focus on Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, which attract about 50 per cent of the total number of tourists visiting China annually. Our analysis suggests that tourism significantly contributes to value added, output, income and employment generation in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, although the level of contribution varies between the two provinces. For example, the impact of an additional tourist dollar would be higher in generating employment and household income in Yunnan province, while the same dollar has a higher impact in generating value added in Sichuan. While in both provinces international tourists generate much higher income per capita than their domestic counterparts, in comparison with Sichuan, Yunnan is considered to be better placed for further development of tourism, particularly ecotourism. The promotion of ecotourism in these provinces will also encourage the Chinese youth to stay in their own provinces rather than to migrate to export-processing provinces—a problem that has already created a concern among the Chinese policymakers.
CYFRA 21-1 predicts the efficacy of nivolumab in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shirasu Hiromichi , Ono Akira , Omae Katsuhiro , Nakashima Kazuhisa , Omori Shota , Wakuda Kazushige , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Naito Tateaki , Murakami Haruyasu , Endo Masahiro , Nakajima Takashi , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: February 2018

CYFRA 21-1 is a prognostic marker for non–small cell lung cancer. The serum CYFRA 21-1 level is also known as an adjunct for the diagnosis of lung squamous cell carcinoma. This study aimed to examine whether CYFRA 21-1 has predictive implications for nivolumab therapy in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma. Of the 79 patients who were treated with nivolumab therapy at the Shizuoka Cancer Center between December 2015 and September 2016, we retrospectively reviewed the data of 50 patients. The patient characteristics were as follows: age <70/≥70 years: 43 (86%)/7; male/female: 31 (62.0%)/19; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0–1/2: 43 (86%)/7; smoking status: no/yes: 18 (36%)/32; epidermal growth factor receptor mutation status negative/positive: 36 (72%)/14; CYFRA 21-1 ≥2.2/<2.2 ng/mL: 28 (56%)/22; carcinoembryonic antigen ≥5/<5 ng/mL: 29 (58%)/21; and number of prior regimens 2–3/≥4: 16 (32%)/34. With a median follow-up of 263.5 (range, 64–352) days, the median progression-free survival was 70 days. The clinical variables investigated using univariate analysis were as follows: age (p = 0.423), carcinoembryonic antigen (p = 0.888), epidermal growth factor receptor mutation status (p = 0.105), performance status (p = 0.968), sex (p = 0.210), number of prior regimens (p = 0.146), CYFRA 21-1 (p = 0.026), and smoking status (p = 0.041). A multivariate analysis identified a serum CYFRA 21-1 level ≥2.2 ng/mL as an independent predictor of a favorable outcome (hazard ratio, 0.44; 95% confidence interval, 0.23–0.85; p = 0.015; median progression-free survival, 155 vs 51.5 days). In conclusion, CYFRA 21-1 might be an independent predictor of outcome for patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with nivolumab.
Schemas, grounds, meaning: On the emergence of musical concepts through conceptual blending
Authors: Antović Mihailo
Published: February 2018

This article offers a new theoretical approach to the conceptualization of music, based on Conceptual Blending Theory, with a reinforced role ascribed to the constructs of generic space and the grounding box. Three analyses of typical conceptualizations of music from prior experiments with children and adults are provided to postulate that the ultimate linguistically reported concept comes from blending the intramusical Gestalt (input space 1) with a rich image from an appropriate experiential domain (input space 2). However, the mapping is not haphazard, but rather based on the invariant structure in the generic space, which takes the form of an image-schema family. In the blended space new conceptual elements emerge: one such typical resultant concept generates the idea that music “moves”, and in specifically articulated ways. While more basic verbal reports from experiments may be constrained by image-schema families alone, richer descriptions additionally require the theoretical notion of the grounding box, which hosts experiential information that participants add to the description as they progress in building musical meaning. The proposed model relativizes two common dichotomies in music cognition: (1) the distinction between “intramusical” and “extramusical” meaning, since both participate in the process of creating the ultimate blended concept; and (2) the strict divide between universalism and linguistic relativity in musical concept formation, since the present proposal has sufficient theoretical constructs to account for both schematic invariants and experiential diversity.
Conceptual blending and musical emotion
Authors: Spitzer Michael
Published: February 2018

The scholarly literature on conceptual blending and emotion is very scant. One exception is a short section in Fauconnier and Turner (2002) focused on the emotion of anger. Fauconnier and Turner refer to the cross-cultural research of Lakoff and Kövecses (1987) on the anger script. The present article takes this dialogue on anger as a starting point to develop two separate yet interlinked matters: first, to open up a perspective on emotion from the standpoint of conceptual blending; second, to apply this perspective to the analysis of music’s structural features. The article begins by reviewing Juslin and Timmers’ (2010) model of the expressive character of acoustic features and proceeds to assess Lakoff and Kövecses’ theory of emotion as cognitive metaphor. Reconciling the cognitive metaphor of anger with the theory of conceptual blending allows us to analyze anger in two pieces, by Vivaldi and Haydn, respectively. The analysis throws into relief issues which arise when we apply conceptual blending to aesthetic objects in general, and musical works in particular. One key concept here is Fauconnier and Turner’s notion of time compression. Finally, the article examines Brandt’s (2006) useful ideas on blending in art as a way of further clarifying the special status of emotion in music, as distinct from utilitarian emotion in everyday life. The article concludes that a synthesis of conceptual blending and cognitive metaphor provides a useful tool for analyzing musical emotion.
Use of personal electronic devices by psychiatric inpatients: benefits, risks and attitudes of patients and staff
Authors: O’Connor Nick , Zantos Katherine , Sepulveda-Flores Viviana
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

The study aimed to evaluate the attitudes of patients and staff in relation to the potential benefits and risks of allowing psychiatric inpatients controlled access to personal electronic devices (PEDs), and to document a snapshot audit of practice within the mental health inpatient units of New South Wales, Australia.

Methods:

Psychiatric inpatients and staff at Royal North Shore Hospital’s Mental Health inpatient units were surveyed, and an audit of the policies of the psychiatric inpatients of New South Wales was undertaken.

Results:

Access to PEDs is denied in 85% of New South Wales psychiatric inpatient units. While patients and staff appear to concur on the risks of access to PEDs and the need for risk assessment and rules, compared to patients, staff appear to underestimate the importance of PEDs to maintaining social connection and recovery.

Conclusions:

This study may assist in the formulation of local policy and procedure to allow a more recovery-oriented approach to the question of whether patients should have access to their PEDs while in hospital.
Labor-Management Cooperation in Illinois: How a Joint Union Company Team Is Improving Facility Safety
Authors: Mahan Bruce , Maclin Reggie , Ruttenberg Ruth , Mundy Keith , Frazee Tom , Schwartzkopf Randy , Morawetz John
Published: February 2018

This study of Afton Chemical Corporation’s Sauget facility and its International Chemical Workers Union Council (ICWUC) Local 871C demonstrates how significant safety improvements can be made when committed leadership from both management and union work together, build trust, train the entire work force in U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-hour classes, and communicate with their work force, both salaried and hourly. A key finding is that listening to the workers closest to production can lead to solutions, many of them more cost-efficient than top-down decision-making. Another is that making safety and health an authentic value is hard work, requiring time, money, and commitment. Third, union and management must both have leadership willing to take chances and learn to trust one another. Fourth, training must be for everyone and ongoing. Finally, health and safety improvements require dedicated funding. The result was resolution of more than one hundred safety concerns and an ongoing institutionalized process for continuing improvement.
Out-of-School Learning in Hungarian Primary Education: Practice and Barriers
Authors: Fűz Nóra
Published: February 2018

Background: In recent years interest has increased in the role of out-of-school learning (OSL) in improving science education and students’ motivation toward learning. In Hungary, however, little is known about the practice and outlook of OSL. Purpose: This study explored (a) how Hungarian primary schools use OSL places (including the location, frequency, and motivation of the visits), (b) the overall attitudes toward OSL, and (c) whether any obstacles to OSL exist that schools need to overcome. Methodology/Approach: We used a large-scale online survey collecting data from a total of 4,861 respondents, which identified the parameters of OSL programs organized by primary schools. Findings/Conclusions: Results reveal that schools follow the recommendations of the National Core Curriculum on OSL, but such programs only occasionally take place, even though the majority of respondents expressed the desire for increased frequency. The main reasons for the low prevalence of OSL activities are difficulties with financial arrangements and fitting them into the syllabus. Implications: Further research should focus on how to overcome barriers to OSL to take the intention of the respondents into consideration.
Super-Utilization of Health Care Resources Among Gynecologic Oncology Patients
Authors: Hay Casey M. , Kelley Joseph L. , Edwards Robert P. , Pombier Kathleen M. , Comerci John T.
Published: February 2018

Super-utilizers account for many emergency department visits (EDV) and hospitalizations. Among Medicare/Medicaid patients, 5% to 10% account for >50% of spending. Little is known about super-utilization in gynecologic oncology. Charts of 64 gynecologic oncology patients with ≥3 EDV and/or admissions over 12 months were reviewed retrospectively. Cancer type distribution was 47% ovarian, 23% cervical, 23% endometrial, and 6% vulvar. Treatment at index visit was 61% chemotherapy, 16% no treatment, 8% recent surgery, and 6% radiation. Mean visits was 5.7 (SD 3.9, range 3-28). Most common presenting complaints were gastrointestinal and pain. Patients near end of life were more likely to be admitted. EDV frequently occurred outside standard work hours (63%). EDV/admissions resulted in total variable expenses of $1 462 581 ($982 933 direct expense, $479 648 service expense). Interventions to decrease super-utilization could target symptom management, off-hour support, patients on chemotherapy, and end of life. Approaches could include multidisciplinary resources, palliative care teams, extending office hours, and earlier initiation of hospice.
Malignant Transformation Arising Within Unusual and Rare Hepatic Lesions: Fibropolycystic Disease Form of Ductal Plate Malformation and Biliary Adenofibroma
Authors: Chua Darren , Chiow Adrian Kah Heng , Ang Tiing Leong , Wang Lai Mun
Published: February 2018

Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common hepatobiliary cancer following hepatocellular carcinoma, and 20% to 25% are intrahepatic. We describe 2 cases of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma arising within unusual and rare hepatic lesions, fibropolycystic liver disease form of ductal plate malformation and biliary adenofibroma, whose association with malignancy is rarely reported in the literature.
Electroelasticity of dielectric elastomers based on molecular chain statistics
Authors: Itskov Mikhail , Khiêm Vu Ngoc , Waluyo Sugeng
Published: February 2018

The mechanical response of dielectric elastomers can be influenced or even controlled by an imposed electric field. It can, for example, cause mechanical stress or strain without any applied load; this phenomenon is referred to as electrostriction. There are many purely phenomenological hyperelastic models describing this electroactive response of dielectric elastomers. In this contribution, we propose an electromechanical constitutive model based on molecular chain statistics. The model considers polarization of single polymer chain segments and takes into account their directional distribution. The latter results from non-Gaussian chain statistics, taking finite extensibility of polymer chains into account. The resulting (one-dimensional) electric potential of a single polymer chain is further generalized to the (three-dimensional) network potential. To this end, we apply directional averaging on the basis of numerical integration over a unit sphere. In a special case of the eight-direction (Arruda–Boyce) model, directional averaging is obtained analytically. This results in an invariant-based electroelastic constitutive model of dielectric elastomers. The model includes a small number of physically interpretable material constants and demonstrates good agreement with experimental data, with respect to the electroactive response and electrostriction of dielectric elastomers.
Collaborating to Reduce Violence: The Impact of Focused Deterrence in Kansas City
Authors: Fox Andrew M. , Novak Kenneth J.
Published: February 2018

This research examines the impact of focused deterrence on homicide and gun violence in Kansas City, MO. In 2014, a coalition of police, prosecutors, city officials, researchers, and others implemented Kansas City No Violence Alliance, a focused deterrence violence reduction strategy. Using street-level intelligence and analysis, groups involved with violence were identified and notified of the consequences for future violent incidents. Leveraging existing social services, members opting for nonviolence were offered assistance. This study evaluates the impact on violence over 3 years of implementation. Using 2009–2016 police incident data on homicide (including group member involved homicide) and gun-involved aggravated assault, time series models were estimated to determine the effects of focused deterrence during 2014–2016. Analysis indicated that focused deterrence implementation resulted in an immediate reduction in homicides and gun-involved aggravated assaults. This effect began to diminish around the 12-month postintervention point. During the third year, overall and group member involved homicide numbers returned to preimplementation levels, and gun-involved aggravated assaults exceeded those levels. After achieving significant first-year reductions, despite robust implementation and fidelity, violence returned to preimplementation levels by the third year. Limitations to the focused deterrence model and the need for continuous evaluation and innovation are discussed.
Residual bending behaviour of sandwich composites after impact
Authors: Baran Ismet , Weijermars Wouter
Published: February 2018

This work investigates the residual mechanical behaviour of composite sandwich panels in bending after impact loading conditions. The sandwich panels were made of an epoxy/glass face sheet with three different core materials: styrene acrylonitrile foam, polyethylene terephthalate foam and Balsa wood. A three-point bending test was performed in order to determine the reference stiffness. A low-velocity impact test and thereafter the three-point bending test were performed with the same specimens. The failure modes during bending tests were captured using a high-speed camera. It was found that multiple shear cracks with progressive failure were present in the core of styrene acrylonitrile and polyethylene terephthalate panels in bending after impact tests, whereas single shear crack with sudden failure was the case for Balsa panels. The initial bending stiffness decreased approximately 30.5, 35.2 and 55.6% for Balsa, styrene acrylonitrile and polyethylene terephthalate panels, respectively, in bending after impact tests due to the influence of the pre-damage from the low-velocity impact tests. The reduction in collapse force was also quantified for Balsa, styrene acrylonitrile and polyethylene terephthalate panels as 22.8, 4.9 and 22.1%, respectively.
Plasma and Urinary Oxytocin Trajectories in Extremely Premature Infants During NICU Hospitalization
Authors: Weber Ashley , Harrison Tondi M. , Sinnott Loraine , Shoben Abigail , Steward Deborah
Published: February 2018

Extremely premature infants are at great risk for poor neurodevelopmental outcomes, in part because neurologic structures designed to mature in the womb must now do so in the extrauterine environment. Reliable biomarkers of neurodevelopment are especially critical in this population, as behavioral measures can be unreliable due to immaturity of the premature infant nervous system. Oxytocin (OT) has the potential to be a marker of neurobiological processes that offer infant neuroprotection. However, no studies have measured OT in the plasma and urine of premature infants. The purposes of this study were to describe plasma and urine OT levels of premature infants through 34 weeks corrected gestational age (CGA), determine whether plasma and urine OT are correlated, and explore associations between infant demographics and OT trajectories. Plasma and urine from 37 premature infants, born at gestational ages 25–28 6/7 weeks, were longitudinally collected at 14 days of life, then weekly until 34 weeks CGA. Plasma OT decreased with age, at a rate of 15% per week, and exhibited strong stability within infants. Urine OT was not correlated with plasma OT and did not show a significant trend over time; thus, urine may not be a reliable, noninvasive measurement in this population. Apgar score was the only infant demographic characteristic associated with plasma OT. Given the novelty of this work, replication is needed to confirm these findings, and future research should explore potential mechanisms (e.g., stress, normal maturation, and social experiences) that contribute to declining plasma OT levels in premature infants.
Long-Term Effects of Prematurity, Cumulative Medical Risk, and Proximal and Distal Social Forces on Individual Differences in Diurnal Cortisol at Young Adulthood
Authors: Winchester Suzy B. , Sullivan Mary C. , Roberts Mary B. , Bryce Crystal I. , Granger Douglas A.
Published: February 2018

This study examined the effects of prematurity, cumulative medical risk, and proximal and distal social forces on individual differences in the activity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis in young adulthood. A prospective sample of 149 infants born healthy preterm (PT; n = 22), sick PT ( n = 93, medical illness, neurological illness, small for gestational age), and full term ( n = 34) was recruited from a Level III neonatal intensive care unit in southern New England between 1985 and 1989 and followed to age 23 years. Cumulative medical risk was indexed across seven assessment waves (spanning 17 years) using medical and neurological health status at birth, toddlerhood (ages 18 and 30 months), childhood (ages 4 and 8 years), and adolescence (ages 12 and 17 years). Distal risk included socioeconomic status (SES) at birth. Proximal social factors were indexed from assessments of the home environment and measures of child vulnerability and maternal self-esteem, involvement, and control style from birth, 4 years, 8 years, and 12 years. At age 23 years, five saliva samples were collected upon awakening, 45 min after waking, 4 hr after waking, 8 hr after waking, and bedtime (later assayed for cortisol). Results reveal effects of cumulative medical risk on the diurnal pattern of HPA axis activity, with moderating effects of SES and proximal social factors. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for contemporary theories related to developmental sensitivity and susceptibility to context and the developmental origins of health and disease theory.