bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Struggles to remain in Kigali’s “unplanned” settlements: the case of Bannyahe
Authors: Esmail Shakirah , Corburn Jason
Published: November 2019

Examining the precarious status of informal settlements in Kigali at a time of large-scale planning-induced expropriation, this article considers urban contestation in the context of the city’s changing spatial-legal regime. We analyse the case of one informal settlement’s expropriation and relocation – the settlement of Bannyahe – and the contestation that has ensued as resident property owners take the District of Gasabo to court. Through interviews with settlement residents, we follow the fates of these displaced urban citizens and consider their struggles to remain in their homes. Finally, we suggest that such contestation over legal procedural regularity and negotiation over property valuation at the neighbourhood level forms the limit of overt opposition to the city’s masterplan. Terming these limits to contestation “silent boundaries” that circumscribe contestation for property owners in the Bannyahe settlement, we offer perspectives on contestation and compromise amidst urban socio-spatial reordering in the “new Kigali”.
Impact of a trigeneration power system fuelled by vegetable oil on environmental air pollution by numerical simulations
Authors: Iodice Paolo , Cardone Massimo
Published: November 2019

In the most recent years, renewable sources are becoming increasingly crucial owing to both the stocks of fossil fuels being depleted and environmental problems around the globe. This study describes the environmental assessment of thermal power plant-based trigeneration systems fuelled by renewable energy sources for district heating/cooling system. First, the paper examines the thermal and refrigeration requests of a possible new urban area with electricity, cooling and heating provided by a new trigeneration power system; this study is performed considering a trigeneration plant based on the internal combustion engines fuelled by renewable vegetable oil. Subsequently, a numerical assessment is achieved in order to evaluate the environmental impact on the neighboring area of the trigeneration system. The results of these numerical simulations show that the impact of this power plant on air quality state is not significant in this area. As a result, this kind of trigeneration power system can significantly support the cause of sustainable development and energy efficiency.
Psychology as a science of life
Authors: Brinkmann Svend
Published: November 2019

William James famously defined psychology as the science of mental life. Much ink has since been spilled over the concept of the mental, but less so over the notion of life. In this article, I argue that psychologists should address life as an equally important concept. First, I briefly articulate Aristotle’s idea of the soul (or mind) as a life principle. Second, I argue with reference to Wittgenstein that the division between the living and non-living is more basic and important than that between mind and matter. Third, I introduce the work of the philosopher Hans Jonas, who made the phenomenon of life central to his existential interpretation of biological facts and argued that nature should be seen as a source of value. My conclusion is that psychology as a science of life must be a biographical science—a science of what it is to live a life.
The changing extent of marine-terminating glaciers and ice caps in northeastern Svalbard since the ‘Little Ice Age’ from marine-geophysical records
Authors: Dowdeswell Julian A , Ottesen Dag , Bellec Valerie K
Published: November 2019

Climate warming in Svalbard since the end of the ‘Little Ice Age’ early in the 20th century has reduced glacier extent in the archipelago. Previous attempts to reconstruct ‘Little Ice Age’ glacier limits have encountered problems in specifying the area of tidewater glacier advances because it is difficult to estimate the past positions of their marine termini. Multibeam echo-sounding data are needed to map past glacier extent offshore, especially in open-marine settings where subaerial lateral moraines cannot be used due to the absence of fjord walls. We use the submarine glacial landform record to measure the recent limits of advance of over 30 marine-terminating northeastern Svalbard glaciers and ice caps. Our results demonstrate that previous work has underestimated the ice-covered area relative to today by about 40% for northeastern Svalbard (excluding southeast Austfonna) because marine-geophysical evidence in the form of submarine terminal moraines was not included. We show that the recent ice extent was 1753 km2 larger than today over our full area of multibeam data coverage; about 5% of the total modern ice cover of Svalbard. It has often been assumed that moraine ridges located within a few kilometres of modern ice fronts in Svalbard represent either a ‘Little Ice Age’ maximum or relate to surge activity over the past century or so. In the marine environment of northeastern Svalbard, this timing can often be confirmed by reference to early historical maps and aerial photographs. Assemblages of submarine glacial landforms inshore of recently deposited terminal moraines suggest whether a recent advance may be a result of surging or ‘Little Ice Age’ climatic cooling relative to today. However, older terminal moraines do exist in the archipelago, as shown by radiocarbon and 10Be dating of Holocene moraine ridges.
Caregiving for ageing parents: A literature review on the experience of adult children
Authors: Luichies Ina , Goossensen Anne , der Meide Hanneke van
Published: November 2019

Background:

More and more adults in their fifties and sixties are confronted with the need to support their ageing parents. Although many aspects of filial caregiving have been researched, a well-documented and comprehensive overview of the caregiving experience is lacking.

Aim:

This study aims for a better understanding of the caregiving experience of adult children by generating an overview of main themes in international research.

Method:

A literature review of qualitative studies, focusing on the experiences of adult children caring for their ageing parents, was performed. The electronic EBSCO databases Academic Search Premier, CINAHL and PsycINFO, and Google Scholar were searched to identify relevant qualitative studies published between 2000 and 2017. The ‘SPIDER’ eligibility criteria directed the approach. The quality of studies included was screened with the assessment sheet designed by Hawker and colleagues. The experiences reported were analysed and themes were synthesized.

Ethical consideration:

Ethical requirements were respected in every phase of the research process.

Findings:

Nineteen qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. The quality of the relationship with the parent appears to be an important determinant of the children’s caregiving experience. Within this context, three themes were found: caregiving as an emotional rollercoaster, a normatively demanding experience and an opportunity for personal development.

Discussion:

Children caring for their ageing parents have to deal with a wide range of contradicting and conflicting norms and values. Implications for healthcare professionals and future research have been discussed.

Conclusion:

Caring for ageing parents is a continuous quest for giving the best possible care and living up to one’s personal values, within the context of the parent’s declining health. Professionals who support filial caregivers should address not only practical responsibilities but also the normative questions and moral considerations caregivers are dealing with.
Characterization of a novel Mycoplasma cynos real-time PCR assay
Authors: Tallmadge Rebecca L. , Anderson Renee , Mitchell Patrick K. , Forbes Zachary C. , Werner Brenda , Gioia Gloria , Moroni Paolo , Glaser Amy , Thachil Anil J. , Goodman Laura B.
Published: November 2019

Mycoplasma cynos is recognized as an emerging causative pathogen of canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) worldwide. We developed a new open-source real-time PCR (rtPCR) assay for M. cynos that performs well under standard rtPCR conditions. Primers and probes were designed to target the M. cynos tuf gene. Reaction efficiencies for the M. cynos tuf gene assay on 2 platforms were based on amplification of standard curves spanning 8 orders of magnitude: ABI 7500 platform, 94.3–97.9% ( r2 ≥ 0.9935); QuantStudio OpenArray platform, 119.1–122.5% ( r2 = 0.9784). The assay performed very well over a range of template input, from 109 copies to the lower limit of quantification at 4 copies of the M. cynos genome on the ABI 7500 platform. Diagnostic performance was estimated by comparison with an in-house legacy assay on clinical specimens as well as testing isolates that were characterized previously by intergenic spacer region (ISR) sequencing. Exclusivity was established by testing 12 other Mycoplasma species. To substantiate the high specificity of the M. cynos tuf gene assay, sequence confirmation was performed on ISR PCR amplicons obtained from clinical specimens. One ISR amplicon sequence revealed M. mucosicanis rather than M. cynos. The complete protocol of the newly developed M. cynos tuf assay is provided to facilitate assay harmonization.
A Transdisciplinary Conceptual Framework of Contextualized Resilience for Reducing Adverse Birth Outcomes
Authors: Sumbul Tijen , Spellen Solaire , McLemore Monica R.
Published: November 2019

Research in preterm birth has focused on the disparate outcomes for Black, Hispanic, and Latina women as compared with White women. However, research studies have not focused on centering these women in frameworks that discuss how resilience is embodied. This article is a presentation of our transdisciplinary contextual framework of resilience, building on work that centers Black, Hispanic, and Latina women, as well as historical oppression and trauma resilience frameworks developed by transcultural psychiatry, psychology, public health, anthropology, medicine, nursing, sociology, and social work. To develop the model, we reviewed 115 articles and books (1977–2019), which were then evaluated and synthesized to develop a transdisciplinary framework of contextualized resilience to enable a better understanding of the complex interplay of medical and social conditions influencing preterm birth. The framework includes multiple ecological layers that cross the individual, familial and intimate, community, structural, policy and law, and hegemonic domains.
Principals’ Intentions to Promote Physical Education
Authors: Rizzo Terry L.
Published: November 2019

The Principals’ Attitude toward Physical Education ( PAPE) survey was used to assess public principals’ intention to promote physical education (PE). Principals ( n = 106) from randomly selected middle and high school schools in California completed the PAPE. Results indicated favorable attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and normative beliefs were associated with promoting PE. Middle school principals are more likely to promote PE than high school principals, especially if they promoted PE in the past. Principals who reported higher perceived competence along with positive professional and personal experiences with PE indicated they would likely promote this subject-matter content in their school.
The Effects of Child and Adult Victimization on Psychological Distress: A Mediated Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: Dishon-Brown Amanda , Golder Seana , Renn Tanya , Logan TK , Higgins George E.
Published: November 2019

Justice-involved women experience significantly higher rates of victimization and psychological distress, and these experiences place women at greater risk of initial and ongoing involvement in the criminal justice system. This research explored the relationship between victimization, the hypothesized mediators (social support and coping), and psychological distress among a sample of 406 victimized women on probation/parole. Results of the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were significant and indicated a partial mediation model (74%) with both direct and indirect effects. Based upon the results of this research, implications and future research are explored regarding gender-responsive practices for this population.
Ocular biometric changes after Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation
Authors: Miraftabi Arezoo , Lotfi Mahboubeh , Nilforushan Naveed , Abdolalizadeh Parya , Jafari Samira
Published: November 2019

Purpose:

To investigate the ocular biometric changes after uneventful Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation.

Methods:

Patients with refractory glaucoma who were candidate for Ahmed valve surgery were prospectively included in this study. Patients with a history of any kinds of corneal surgery were excluded. Refractive status, intraocular pressure, axial length, anterior chamber parameters including anterior and posterior mean keratometry, central corneal thicknesses, and anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, and anterior chamber angle were evaluated at baseline and 1 and 3 months after surgery.

Results:

A total of 20 eyes from 20 patients were included. Mean intraocular pressure at baseline was 33.4 ± 12.3 mm Hg that significantly decreased to 14.6 ± 6.2 mm Hg at 1 month and 13.5 ± 4.3 mm Hg at 3 months after Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation ( p < 0.001). Mean number of medications was 3.6 ± 1.3 at baseline which significantly decreased to 1.0 ± 1.3 at 3 months after Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation ( p < 0.001). Axial length decreased significantly from 23.69 ± 1.95 to 23.47 ± 1.91 mm ( p < 0.001) at month 3. There were no significant changes in other parameters such as mean spherical equivalent, anterior chamber volume, anterior chamber angle, anterior chamber depth, and keratometry at the end of month 3 after surgery ( p > 0.05 in all).

Conclusion:

Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation had a significant effect on axial length at 3 months after surgery but its effect on keratometry and other anterior chamber parameters was not significant.
Dialogical exemplars as communicative tools: Resituating knowledge from dialogical single case studies
Authors: Zadeh Sophie , Cabra Martina
Published: November 2019

In this article, we develop the concept of ‘dialogical exemplars’ as communicative tools for scholars who wish to ‘resituate knowledge’ from dialogical single case studies. Exemplars are typological representatives that try to convey typicality in non-taxonomic terms, yet in the existing literature, they are defined in terms of their relationship to a population, class or sample. We suggest instead that ‘dialogical exemplars’, as specific instances that have the self-other at their core, can be used to convey the ‘wholeness’ of cases to various audiences. To support this proposition, we draw upon two single case studies, built 30 years apart, that are concerned with children’s daily lives and experiences. Specifically, we develop a dialogue with and between examples from each case of children's play, not only to make the case for ‘dialogical exemplars’, but also to evidence the process through which we arrived at this concept. We highlight that this process is one that researchers often go through, but, rather curiously, rarely document. In conclusion, we suggest that ‘resituating knowledge’ might be best thought of as several, non-linear, stages in the process of dialogical research that involve, and invite further dialogue.
Top management team regional diversity and internationalization
Authors: Agnihotri Arpita , Bhattacharya Saurabh
Published: November 2019

Cultural intelligence is one of the most widely researched topics in international business literature. However, to date, only cross-national differences have been examined. This research examines the unexplored relationship between top management teams’ (TMT) regional diversity and emerging market firms’ internationalization. Employing the cultural intelligence theory, we introduce a significant dimension of TMT diversity—regional diversity. Based on a sample of 542 firms, our results indicate that diversity in the regional family background of TMT and their work experience are positively associated with the internationalization of these firms. Furthermore, this relationship is positively moderated by the international experience of the TMT. Our findings offer several managerial and academic implications.
Exploring poetry as method: “Representing faithfully” the narratives of African American high school students and their mothers
Authors: Corley Nicole A
Published: November 2019

In this article, I reflect on my experiences using poetry as a method of data analysis and data representation from a qualitative study of seven African American high school seniors and their single mothers. By applying different techniques of narrative analysis, namely poetic transcription, a deeper understanding of both participants’ and the researcher’s lived experiences were gained. Poetic transcription techniques were used to create found poems for each participant. The poems serve as a means to honor and center the unique experiences of Black students and Black mothers. The article discusses opportunities for poetry in social work research and demonstrates using poetry as a technique for data analysis and data representation.
On the differences in noise predictions based on solid and permeable surface Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings integral solutions
Authors: Spalart Philippe R , Belyaev Kirill V , Shur Mikhail L , Kh Strelets Mikhail , Travin Andrey K
Published: November 2019

The Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings equation is widely used in computational aeroacoustics to post-process unsteady simulations and provide the sound at distances beyond the accurate range of the grid. It distinguishes the monopole/dipole contributions from solid surfaces Σ and that from quadrupoles present in the volume of the fluid. Curle showed that at low Mach numbers, the solid-surface terms are stronger than the volume term. Very few studies have included the volume term itself, but many have used a permeable Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings surface Σ, which in principle surrounds the quadrupoles, giving valid results independent of Mach number; in reality for external flows, the surface cannot surround all the quadrupoles. However, in spite of doubts over the solid-surface approach even at low Mach numbers, it is widely used because of its simplicity and the difficulties associated with turbulence crossing the permeable surface. We consider Mach numbers M up to 0.25, which challenges approximations based on the property that “M ≪1.” An additional attraction of the solid-surface approach is the idea of identifying the “true” source of the sound by computing separately the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings integrals for different components. We wish to determine whether this “self-evident” argument gives an effective approach, and in general to assess Curle’s approximations, using a sphere-dipole problem and three model problems related to landing-gear noise, namely an isolated rectangular body, a fuselage with a cavity, and one with a bluff body under it. One key test is the shielding of sound toward various directions; any approach that misses this shielding is suspect. The overall conclusion is, again, that Curle’s approximations succeed in some cases but are quite inaccurate in the audible range for an airliner in approach and for high-speed trains, and also that separating the components’ contributions is often misleading. In contrast we verify that, for our model problems and with adequate grid resolution and surface placement, the permeable-surface results are as accurate as the simulation itself is, irrespective of distance, direction, or Mach number.
Investigation of synthetic jets influence on noise level and its spectral properties for off-design supersonic jet by RANS/ILES method
Authors: Benderskiy Leonid , Lyubimov Dmitry , Polnyakov Nikita
Published: November 2019

Hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes/Implicit Large Eddy Simulation (RANS/ILES) high-resolution method was applied to investigate synthetic jets influence on potential core length and noise level in supersonic underexpanded jet from converging–diverging nozzle. In this work, temperature and pressure of ambient air were as follows: P = 100 kPa, T = 300 K. Nozzle pressure ratio was NPR = 4 and total temperature at the nozzle inlet was [Formula: see text]. Investigation of the accuracy of simulation was carried out before the investigation of synthetic jet influence. Synthetic jets were simulated using approximate boundary condition. Synthetic jets were injected from eight rectangular slits inside nozzle with step of 45° in azimuthal direction. The long sides of the slits were oriented along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle. The amplitude and frequency range of synthetic jets were as follows: q = 50.200 m/s, f = 60.300 Hz. Simulation results showed that the application of synthetic jets noticeably reduces the potential core length. Reducing the potential core length by 24% was achieved on one of the considered operating modes. An explanation for the mechanism of the action of synthetic jets on mixing layer of main jet flow was proposed. Synthetic jets influence on overall sound pressure and narrowband noise was revealed in near and far field. Operating modes, which decrease screech level on several observation angles, were found.
Structural damage detection and localization using a hybrid method and artificial intelligence techniques
Authors: Hoshyar Azadeh Noori , Samali Bijan , Liyanapathirana Ranjith , Houshyar Afsaneh Nouri , Yu Yang
Published: November 2019

In this article, an intelligent scheme for structural damage detection and localization is introduced by implementing a hybrid method using the Hilbert–Huang transform and the wavelet transform. First, the second derivatives of the Discrete Laplacian are computed on Hilbert spectrum parameters at each frequency coordinate, and then, in order to highlight the influence of damage on signals, the data are rescaled and weighted with respect to the variance to adjust the differences in amplitude at different scales. Afterwards, the anti-symmetric extension is applied to deal with the boundary distortion phenomenon. A two-dimensional map is created using the multi two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform. This generates the coefficient matrices of level 2 approximation and horizontal, vertical and diagonal details. Horizontal detail coefficients are used to localize damages due to its sensitiveness to any perturbation. Finally, the validity of the algorithm corresponding to various damage states, the single state damage and multiple state damage, is examined through experimental analysis. The results indicate that the proposed framework can effectively localize cracks on concrete and reinforced concrete beams and can provide reliable crack localization in the presence of noise up to 5% more than the expected noise. In addition, the detection problem is mapped to machine learning tasks (support vector machine, k-nearest neighbours and ensemble methods) to automate the damage detection process. The quality of the models is evaluated and validated using the features extracted from the horizontal detail coefficients. The numerical results show that the ensemble models outperform the other models with respect to accuracy, prediction speed and training time.
Competitive Intensity, Fans’ Expectations, and Match-Day Tickets Sold in the Italian Football Serie A, 2012-2015
Authors: Bond Alexander John , Addesa Francesco
Published: November 2019

This article investigates the impact of the competitive intensity (CI) on the stadium attendance for Italian soccer in three Serie A seasons (2012-13 to 2014-15). The central element of novelty concerning the existing literature is that fans expectations are also included among the explanatory variables of the Tobit model. Our results show that CI has a significant impact on match-day attendance in relation to all the sporting prizes but Europa League qualification. Moreover, we find evidence supporting the existence of reference-dependent preferences, where the attendance increases when the home team rank is higher than the preseason expectations.
Clinical Validation of a Ray-Casting Analytical Dose Engine for Spot Scanning Proton Delivery Systems
Authors: Younkin James E. , Morales Danairis Hernandez , Shen Jiajian , Shan Jie , Bues Martin , Lentz Jarrod M. , Schild Steven E. , Stoker Joshua B. , Ding Xiaoning , Liu Wei
Published: November 2019

Purpose:

To describe and validate the dose calculation algorithm of an independent second-dose check software for spot scanning proton delivery systems with full width at half maximum between 5 and 14 mm and with a negligible spray component.

Methods:

The analytical dose engine of our independent second-dose check software employs an altered pencil beam algorithm with 3 lateral Gaussian components. It was commissioned using Geant4 and validated by comparison to point dose measurements at several depths within spread-out Bragg peaks of varying ranges, modulations, and field sizes. Water equivalent distance was used to compensate for inhomogeneous geometry. Twelve patients representing different disease sites were selected for validation. Dose calculation results in water were compared to a fast Monte Carlo code and ionization chamber array measurements using dose planes and dose profiles as well as 2-dimensional–3-dimensional and 3-dimensional–3-dimensional γ-index analysis. Results in patient geometry were compared to Monte Carlo simulation using dose–volume histogram indices, 3-dimensional–3-dimensional γ-index analysis, and inpatient dose profiles.

Results:

Dose engine model parameters were tuned to achieve 1.5% agreement with measured point doses. The in-water γ-index passing rates for the 12 patients using 3%/2 mm criteria were 99.5% ± 0.5% compared to Monte Carlo. The average inpatient γ-index analysis passing rate compared to Monte Carlo was 95.8% ± 2.9%. The average difference in mean dose to the clinical target volume between the dose engine and Monte Carlo was −0.4% ± 1.0%. For a typical plan, dose calculation time was 2 minutes on an inexpensive workstation.

Conclusions:

Following our commissioning process, the analytical dose engine was validated for all treatment sites except for the lung or for calculating dose–volume histogram indices involving point doses or critical structures immediately distal to target volumes. Monte Carlo simulations are recommended for these scenarios.
Bromelain Enhances the Anti-tumor Effects of Cisplatin on 4T1 Breast Tumor Model In Vivo
Authors: Mohamad Nurul Elyani , Abu Nadiah , Yeap Swee Keong , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu
Published: November 2019

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the antitumor enhancing effect of bromelain consumption on 4T1-challenged mice treated with cisplatin. Methods: Mice challenged with 4T1 triple-negative breast cancer cells received water, bromelain, cisplatin, or bromelain + cisplatin treatment for 28 days. Tumor size was measured, and lung metastasis was evaluated by clonogenic assay. Expression of tumor inflammatory genes of the harvested tumor was quantified by polymerase chain reaction array and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Results: All treatments significantly reduced the size of tumor and lung metastasis, with combination treatment showing the best effect. Also, bromelain alone and combination treatment showed downregulation of the expression of tumor inflammatory genes (Gremlin [GREM1], interleukin 1β [IL-1β], interleukin-4 [IL-4], nuclear factor κB subunit 1 [NFκB1], and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 [PTGS2]), tumor nitric oxide level, and serum IL-1β, and IL-4 levels. On the other hand, cisplatin treatment increased the expression of selected inflammatory markers. Conclusion: This study suggests that bromelain treatment could potentiate the antitumor effect of cisplatin on triple-negative breast cancer 4T1 cells through modulating the tumor environmental inflammation.
Total Laparoscopic Inferior Mesenteric Artery Ligation and Direct Sac Puncture Embolization Technique for Treatment of Type II Endoleak
Authors: San Norberto Enrique M. , Fidalgo-Domingos Liliana A. , Romero Alejandro , Vaquero Carlos
Published: November 2019

Type II endoleak relates to aneurysm perfusion through a patent branch vessel. Reintervention for type II endoleak should be considered in the presence of significant aneurysm growth. Recurrences and subsequent reinterventions are frequent by occult type II endoleaks through feeder arterial branches. We report a case of a patient with a type II endoleak due to inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) patency associated with aneurysm sac growth after an unsuccessfully attempt of transarterial embolization. Laparoscopic ligation of the IMA with direct sac puncture embolization was performed. The postoperative and 1-year follow-up computed tomography angiography scan demonstrated no endoleak signs and aneurysm sac shrinkage. The proposed modification of this technique constitutes a novel approach to this entity. Total laparoscopic IMA ligation and direct sac puncture embolization technique may increase the success rate for the treatment of endoleaks type II by excluding the recurrences. This technique may offer a safe, feasible, and minimally invasive approach for type II endoleaks when other endovascular techniques are unsuccessful.
Acute and Cumulative Effects With Whole-Body Vibration Exercises Using 2 Biomechanical Conditions on the Flexibility and Rating of Perceived Exertion in Individuals With Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial Pilot Study
Authors: Paiva P. C. , Figueiredo C. A. , Reis-Silva A. , Francisca-Santos A. , Paineiras-Domingos L. L. , Martins-Anjos E. , Melo-Oliveira M. E. S. , Lourenço-Revelles G. M. G. , Moreira-Marconi E. , Guedes-Aguiar E. O. , Brandão A. A. , Neves M. F. T. , Xavier V. L. , Borges D. L. , Lacerda A. C. R. , Mendonça V. A. , Sonza A. , Quinart H. , Boyer F. C. , Taiar R. , Sartorio A. , Cochrane D. J. , Bernardo-Filho M. , Sá-Caputo D. C.
Published: November 2019

This study evaluated the effects of 6 weeks of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on flexibility and the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) in metabolic syndrome (MetS) individuals using 2 biomechanical conditions (fixed frequency [FF] and variable frequency [VF]). Nineteen MetS individuals were randomly allocated in FF-WBV (n = 9, 7 women and 2 men) and VF-WBV (n = 10, 8 women and 2 men) groups. Anterior trunk flexion (ATF) and RPE were determined before and after each session. The acute cumulative exposure effects were analyzed. The FF-WBV group was exposed to 5 Hz on a side alternating vibrating platform (SAVP), exposed to 10 and 50 seconds with the SAVP turned off. The VF-WBV group individuals were intermittently exposed (1 minute WBV exercise/1 minute rest) to 5 to 16 Hz, increased by 1 Hz per session and the peak-to-peak displacement (PPD) were 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mm. Regarding to ATF, significant improvements ( P < .05) were observed in the in the acute (VF group) and cumulative intervention (FF and VF-WBV groups). The RPE significantly ( P < .05) improved only in VF-WBV (cumulative intervention). In conclusion, WBV exercise improved the flexibility and decreased the RPE in MetS individuals. These findings suggest that WBV exercise can be incorporated into physical activities for MetS individuals.
Assessment of Cucumber Genotypes for Salt Tolerance Based on Germination and Physiological Indices
Authors: Marium Asma , Kausar Abida , Ali Shah Syed Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad Yasin , Akhtar Noreen , Akram Muhammad , Riaz Muhammad
Published: November 2019

Soil salinity is one of the primary problem for agricultural crops which causes a great loss in crop production in Pakistan and worldwide. Various approaches have been implemented to overcome salinity problem. Assembly of crops for the enhancement of salt tolerance is a good strategy to achieve cost-effective yields. Cucumber is considered as one of the leading vegetable crop around the world for the nourishment of human being as source of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. Screening of 12 cucumber genotypes using some physiological indices, that is, seedling germination stress tolerance index, plant height stress tolerance index, root length stress tolerance index, shoot and root dry weight stress tolerance index, and shoot and root fresh weight stress tolerance index were performed for the identification of salt tolerance. Using the above characteristics genotypes, Valley and HC-999 were categorized as tolerant, Safaa and Debra as medium tolerant, while Thamin-II identified as medium sensitive and NSC-CM1 and Akbar are classified as sensitive genotypes of cucumber. According to the current study findings, the screened cucumber genotypes for salinity tolerance can also be suggested to farmers for the improved production and yield of crop at saline soil.
Reliability analysis of distributed storage systems considering data loss and theft
Authors: Jia Heping , Peng Rui , Ding Yi , Shao Changzheng
Published: November 2019

With the advancement of cloud computing and internet of things, data are usually stored on distributed computers and these data may risk being lost or stolen. In this article, we consider a common case where the entirety of the data is partitioned into several parts and each data part can be allocated to one or more computers. In the case where a computer fails, all the data parts on it are lost. Before the failure of any computer, the data parts may also be stolen by hackers. The basic model of computer failure and computer intrusion resulting in the theft of all the data parts on the computer is considered first. Then, the case is extended to a general model where computer failure, as well as data part corruption and theft caused by hacking are embedded. It is essential to study the reliability of distributed storage systems considering both data loss and data theft, which can be a basis for decision making on system structure optimization. In this article, a multi-valued decision diagram–based approach is developed to quantitatively evaluate system reliability for both models considering the time-dependence property of sequential events. The proposed method is applicable to systems where the random time to failure, theft, or corruption follows arbitrary distributions including the commonly used exponential distributions. Illustrative examples are provided to validate the proposed method.
The “iPhone effect”: The impact of dual technological disruptions on electrification
Authors: Fuentes Rolando , Hunt Lester C. , Lopez-Ruiz Hector , Manzano Baltasar
Published: November 2019

Meeting climate change goals requires both the decarbonization of the electricity sector and the electrification of much of the rest of the economy. However, the electricity sector is navigating major disruptions that are changing the regulatory and business landscape. This article focuses on the question of whether these changes would help or hinder electrification, taking transportation as an example. Like the electricity sector, transportation is undergoing a deep transformation. We suggest that businesses in both sectors will at some point offer aggregated services, repackaged as subscriptions, and traded on digital platforms. We also argue that data created by these activities would be so valuable that this could be reason alone to move toward this model. This could create synergies between companies that could eventually lead to a rebound effect of electrification, with more vehicle miles traveled and more electricity consumption than before.
Teachers’ perspectives of children’s social behaviours in preschool: Does gender matter?
Authors: Smith Jessica , McLaughlin Tara , Aspden Karyn
Published: November 2019

The article will explore early childhood teachers’ perspectives about social behaviours and gender in young children, in particular the way in which children’s gender related to teachers’ reports of the prevalence and interpretations of children’s social behaviours. The specific social behaviours examined were prosocial behaviours, social leadership, social dominance, and aggressive behaviours. This study used a mixed methods online survey to gather teachers’ perspectives. Findings showed that teachers reported little difference in the display of social behaviours across boys and girls. Moreover, teachers’ views of different social behaviours were similar across boys and girls; however, findings suggested that gender might play a limited, but potentially influential role in teachers’ perspectives of prosocial and aggressive behaviours in girls and boys. Findings from the present study are discussed in connection with previous research.
Evaluation of Precision and Bias Specifications Required to Achieve the 2018 FDA Guidance Criteria for Glucose Meter Performance Using Simulation Models
Authors: Lyon Andrew W. , Lyon Martha E.
Published: November 2019

Background:

The objective of this study was to estimate the combinations of total bias and total imprecision required for devices to meet the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifications using Monte Carlo simulation rather than collection and analysis of experimental data.

Methods:

A model Gaussian distribution of true-glucose values was altered by adding bias and imprecision to create measured-glucose values affected by analytic error. The fraction of measured-glucose values that met the 2018 FDA criteria for blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS) or self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) devices was determined as a function of bias and imprecision.

Results:

The BGMS model determined that a maximum total imprecision of 6% was required with no bias, and with a total bias of +10 mg/dL the total imprecision allowed was reduced to 5% to achieve the 95% FDA performance expectation: 95% of results ≥75 mg/dL within ±12% and 95% of results <75 mg/dL within ±12 mg/dL. The SMBG model determined that a maximum total imprecision of 6% was required at no bias, and with a total bias of +10 mg/dL the total imprecision allowed was reduced to 4% to achieve the 98% FDA expectation: 98% of results ±75 mg/dL within ±15% and 98% of results <75 mg/dL within ±15 mg/dL.

Conclusions:

The 2018 FDA guidance criteria require strict conditions for glucose meter clinical trials to achieve <10 mg/dL total bias and total imprecision of <5%. Total imprecision and bias values assessed in models in this study represent the cumulative imprecision and bias errors for the glucose meters, the reference method, and preanalytic processes.
The Demographics of Fractures and Dislocations Across the Entire United States due to Common Sports and Recreational Activities
Authors: Meixner Cory , Loder Randall T.
Published: November 2019

Background:

There exists little nationwide data regarding fracture and dislocation patterns across a wide variety of sporting activities for all ages and sexes.

Hypothesis:

Participant demographics (age and sex) will vary with regard to fracture and joint dislocation sustained during sport-related activities.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System All Injury Program data 2005 through 2013 were accessed; 18 common sports and recreational activities in the United States were selected. Statistical software was used to calculate the numbers of fractures and dislocations, and incidence was calculated using US Census Bureau data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined the odds ratios (ORs) for the occurrence of a fracture or dislocation.

Results:

A fracture occurred in 20.6% and a joint dislocation in 3.6% of the emergency department visits for sports-related injuries; annual emergency department visit incidence was 1.51 for fractures and 0.27 for dislocations (per 1000 people). Most of the fractures occurred in football (22.5%). The OR for fracture was highest for inline skating (OR, 6.03), males (OR, 1.21), Asians, whites, and Amerindians compared with blacks (OR, 1.46, 1.25, and 1.18, respectively), and those older than 84 years (OR, 4.77). Most of the dislocations occurred in basketball (25.7%). The OR for dislocation was highest in gymnastics (OR, 4.08), males (OR, 1.50), Asians (OR, 1.75), and in those aged 20 to 24 years (OR, 9.04). The most common fracture involved the finger, and the most common dislocation involved the shoulder.

Conclusion:

Inline skating had the greatest risk for fracture, and gymnastics had the greatest risk for joint dislocation.

Clinical Relevance:

This comprehensive study of the risks of sustaining a fracture or dislocation from common sports activities across all age groups can aid sports health providers in a better understanding of those sports at high risk and be proactive in prevention mechanisms (protective gear, body training).
Sildenafil improves exercise capacity in patients with cystic fibrosis: a proof-of-concept clinical trial
Authors: Rodriguez-Miguelez Paula , Ishii Haruki , Seigler Nichole , Crandall Reva , Thomas Jeffrey , Forseen Caralee , McKie Kathleen T. , Harris Ryan A.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Exercise intolerance is a common phenotype observed in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Treatment with sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, has previously been shown to improve exercise capacity (VO2 peak) in other patient populations. Thus, the present study sought to determine the acute and subacute effects of sildenafil on exercise capacity in patients with CF.

Methods:

The present investigation utilized a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study with an acute dose of either sildenafil (50 mg) or placebo ( n = 13, age 25 ± 10), followed by a 4 week open-label extension with sildenafil (20 mg, TID; n = 15, age 23 ± 11). A comprehensive evaluation of pulmonary function and a maximal exercise test were each performed at every visit.

Results:

A significant increase in VO2 peak was observed after the acute sildenafil dose with no changes following placebo (77 ± 13 versus 72 ± 13% predicted; p = 0.033). In addition, after 4 weeks of treatment, patients showed a significant increase in exercise capacity (72 ± 12 versus 75 ± 12% predicted; p = 0.028) and exercise duration (409 ± 98 versus 427 ± 101 s; p = 0.014). A robust correlation ( r = 0.656; p = 0.008) between baseline FEV1 (% predicted) and the change in exercise capacity following 4 weeks of treatment was identified.

Conclusions:

This proof-of-concept clinical trial demonstrates that sildenafil treatment can improve exercise capacity in patients with CF and that pulmonary function may play an important role in the effectiveness of treatment. Future investigations of sildenafil treatment in patients with CF are certainly warranted.
Development of the mHealth App Trustworthiness checklist
Authors: van Haasteren Afua , Gille Felix , Fadda Marta , Vayena Effy
Published: November 2019

Background

Mobile health applications (mHealth apps) currently lack a consensus on substantial quality and safety standards. As such, the number of individuals engaging with untrustworthy mHealth apps continues to grow at a steady pace.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate end-users’ opinions on the features or actions necessary for trustworthy mHealth apps; and to convey this information to app developers via a succinct but informative checklist: the mHealth app trustworthiness checklist.

Methods

The checklist was formulated in three stages: (a) a literature review of studies identified the desirable features of the most prolific mHealth apps (health and fitness apps); (b) four focus group sessions with past or current users of these apps ( n = 20); and (c) expert feedback on whether the checklist items are conceivable in a real-life setting ( n = 6).

Results

Five major themes emerged from the focus group discussions: informational content, organizational attributes, societal influence, technology-related features, and user control factors. The mHealth app trustworthiness checklist was developed to incorporate these five themes and subsequently modified following expert consultation. In addition to the trustworthiness themes, we identified features that lie between trust and mistrust (limited digital literacy and indifference) as well as 10 features and actions that cause end-users to mistrust mHealth apps.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the evidence base on the attributes of trustworthy mHealth apps. The mHealth app trustworthiness checklist is a useful tool in advancing continued efforts to ensure that health technologies are trustworthy.
Content Curation, Evaluation, and Refinement on a Nonlinearly Directed Imageboard: Lessons From Danbooru
Authors: Britt Brian C.
Published: November 2019

While linearly directed imageboards like 4chan have been extensively studied, user participation on nonlinearly directed imageboards, or “boorus,” has been overlooked despite high activity, expansive multimedia repositories with user-defined classifications and evaluations, and unique affordances prioritizing mutual content curation, evaluation, and refinement over overt discourse. To address the gap in the literature related to participatory engagement on nonlinearly directed imageboards, user activity around the full database of [Formula: see text] submissions to Danbooru, a prominent nonlinearly directed imageboard, was evaluated using regression. The results illustrate the role played by the affordances of nonlinearly directed imageboards and the visible attributes of individual submissions in shaping the user processes of content curation, evaluation, and refinement, as well as the interrelationships between these three core activities. These results provide a foundation for further research within the unique environments of nonlinearly directed imageboards and suggest practical applications across online domains.
Platformizing Webtoons: The Impact on Creative and Digital Labor in South Korea
Authors: Kim Ji-Hyeon , Yu Jun
Published: November 2019

Despite the transformative benefits of platform technology for cultural production, critical scholars have raised vigilance against the emergence of digital platforms as a new hegemonic constellation of 21st-century capitalism, and the neoliberal governance and exploitation of labor that concomitantly intensify. Taking as a case study, the platformization of the “Webtoon” industry in South Korea, this article addresses such concerns, questioning the potentially detrimental effects of platforms on creative labor and their dominance in the market. More importantly, however, it commands wider attention to how platformization has been restructuring this particular cultural industry, and reveals that this process does not simply augment exploitation. Instead, focusing our analysis on the reconfiguration of the process of Webtoon production and the opportunities it affords for the creative labor, we illuminate the complication of relationship between the involved actors, and argue for a broader scope of inquiry that makes explicit the ramifications of platformization on cultural production.
Tabloid news, anti-immigration attitudes, and support for right-wing populist parties
Authors: Diehl Trevor , Vonbun-Feldbauer Ramona , Barnidge Matthew
Published: November 2019

This study examines the role of individuals’ media diets in contributing to the growing support for right-wing populist parties. Drawing on social identity theory and the notion of populism as political communication, this study argues that socio-economic status and tabloid news use explain support for right-wing candidates through heightened out-group hostility. Using survey data from the Austrian National Election Study ( N = 1161), we present a process model in the structural equation modeling framework, and we compare the direct and indirect effects of attention to tabloid versus broadsheet news on the probability to vote for the Freiheitliche Partei Österreichs. Results show that the link between social status and support for right-wing populism is mediated by attention to tabloid news and anti-immigration attitudes. Implications for democratic norms are discussed in light of the overlap between news media and politicians in their use of populist narratives.