bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer relationship proneness revisited: A multidimensional formative measure
Authors: Bahia Kamilia
Published: July 2019

Despite the interest of consumer relationship proneness (CRP) in consumer behavior research and managerial practice in Relationship Marketing, its past conceptualization and measurement bear several shortcomings. To address them, this article first develops an integrative conceptualization of CRP based on the motivations that animate the consumer and lead him or her to engage in commercial relationships. Then, it reports the development and validation process of a comprehensive, multidimensional measurement scale for CRP. This multiphase process has resulted in a 19-item scale that measures CRP across four formative motivational facets that were validated in two different sectors: retail banking services and apparel stores. This scale exhibits satisfactory psychometric qualities in both sectors. The article concludes with implications for marketing theory and practice.
The Frequency of Sexual Perpetration in College Men: A Systematic Review of Reported Prevalence Rates From 2000 to 2017
Authors: Anderson RaeAnn E. , Silver Kristin E. , Ciampaglia Alyssa M. , Vitale Amanda M. , Delahanty Douglas L.
Published: July 2019

Background:

The prevalence of sexual perpetration in college men is unknown. Prior reviews of sexual violence prevalence rates have produced wide-ranging estimates, likely due to wide variation in measurement strategies.

Objectives:

This article systematically reviewed research findings (from 2000 to 2017) regarding prevalence rates of sexual perpetration in college men and measurement strategies. Data Sources: PsycINFO and Web of Science databases. Eligibility Criteria: Empirical reports published between 2000 and 2017 that included male participants, available in English, and reported lifetime prevalence findings in Canadian or American college students. Participants: Data from 78 independent samples including 25,524 college men.

Results:

The average prevalence rate of any sexual perpetration was 29.3% ( SD = 16.8), and the average rate of rape was 6.5% ( SD = 6.3). Studies that used non-Sexual Experiences Survey (SES)–based questionnaires recorded higher prevalence rates (41.5%) than SES-using studies (26.2%). At least 16 different sexual perpetration questionnaires were identified. Modifying standardized questionnaires was extremely common; this was reported in over half of the studies. Studies using modified standardized questionnaires found higher prevalence rates of sexual perpetration than studies using nonmodified standardized questionnaires.

Limitations:

This report focused exclusively on college men in the United States and Canada.

Conclusions and Implications:

On average, 29% of college males report engaging in behaviors defined as sexual perpetration; however, there was a strong influence of measurement strategy on reported rates.
Adaptive Physical Activity for Stroke: An Early-Stage Randomized Controlled Trial in the United States
Authors: Stuart Mary , Dromerick Alexander W. , Macko Richard , Benvenuti Francesco , Beamer Brock , Sorkin John , Chard Sarah , Weinrich Michael
Published: July 2019

Background. As stroke survival improves, there is an increasing need for effective, low-cost programs to reduce deconditioning and improve mobility. Objective. To conduct a phase II trial examining whether the community-based Italian Adaptive Physical Activity exercise program for stroke survivors (APA-Stroke) is safe, effective, and feasible in the United States. Methods. In this single-blind, randomized controlled trial, 76 stroke survivors with mild to moderate hemiparesis >6 months were randomized to either APA-Stroke (N = 43) or Sittercise (N = 33). APA-Stroke is a progressive group exercise regimen tailored to hemiparesis that includes walking, strength, and balance training. Sittercise, a seated, nonprogressive aerobic upper body general exercise program, served as the control. Both interventions were 1 hour, 3 times weekly, in 5 community locations, supervised by exercise instructors. Results. A total of 76 participants aged 63.9 ± 1.2 years, mean months poststroke 61.8 ± 9.3, were included. There were no serious adverse events; completion rates were 58% for APA-Stroke, 70% for Sittercise. APA-Stroke participants improved significantly in walking speed. Sample size was inadequate to demonstrate significant between-group differences. Financial and logistical feasibility of the program has been demonstrated. Ongoing APA classes have been offered to >200 participants in county Senior Centers since study completion. Conclusion. APA-Stroke shows great promise as a low-cost, feasible intervention. It significantly increased walking speed. Safety and feasibility in the US context are demonstrated. A pivotal clinical trial is required to determine whether APA-Stroke should be considered standard of care.
The “MS-ROM/IFAST” Model, a Novel Parallel Nonlinear EEG Analysis Technique, Distinguishes ASD Subjects From Children Affected With Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders With High Degree of Accuracy
Authors: Grossi Enzo , Buscema Massimo , Della Torre Francesca , Swatzyna Ronald J.
Published: July 2019

Background and Objective. In a previous study, we showed a new EEG processing methodology called Multi-Scale Ranked Organizing Map/Implicit Function As Squashing Time (MS-ROM/IFAST) performing an almost perfect distinction between computerized EEG of Italian children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing children. In this study, we assessed this system in distinguishing ASD subjects from children affected with other neuropsychiatric disorders (NPD). Methods. At a psychiatric practice in Texas, 20 children diagnosed with ASD and 20 children diagnosed with NPD were entered into the study. Continuous segments of artifact-free EEG data lasting 10 minutes were entered in MS-ROM/IFAST. From the new variables created by MS-ROM/IFAST, only 12 has been selected according to a correlation criterion. The selected features represent the input on which supervised machine learning systems (MLS) acted as blind classifiers. Results. The overall predictive capability in distinguishing ASD from other NPD cases ranged from 93% to 97.5%. The results were confirmed in further experiments in which Italian and US data have been combined. In this analysis, the best MLS reached 95.0% global accuracy in 1 out of 3 classes distinction (ASD, NPD, controls). This study demonstrates the value of EEG processing with advanced MLS in the differential diagnosis between ASD and NPD cases. The results were not affected by age, ethnicity and technicalities of EEG acquisition, confirming the existence of a specific EEG signature in ASD cases. To further support these findings, it was decided to test the behavior of already trained neural networks on 10 Italian very young ASD children (25-37 months). In this test, 9 out of 10 cases have been correctly recognized as ASD subjects in the best case. Conclusions. These results confirm the possibility of an early automatic autism detection based on standard EEG.
The effects of metal type, number of layers, and hybrid yarn placement on the absorption and reflection properties in electromagnetic shielding of woven fabrics
Authors: Özkan Ilkan , Telli Abdurrahman
Published: July 2019

In this study, stainless steel, copper, and silver wires were intermingled with two polyamide 6.6 filaments through the commingling technique to produce three-component hybrid yarns. The produced hybrid yarns were used as weft in the structure of plain woven fabric samples. The electromagnetic shielding effectiveness parameters of samples were measured in the frequency range of 0.8–5.2 GHz by the free space technique. The effects of metal hybrid yarn placement, number of fabric layers, metal types, and wave polarization on the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness and absorption and reflection properties of the woven fabrics were analyzed statistically at low and high frequencies separately. As a result, the samples have no shielding property in the warp direction. Metal types show no statistically significant effect on electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. However, fabrics containing stainless steel have a higher absorption power ratio than copper and silver samples. Double-layer samples have higher electromagnetic shielding effectiveness values than single-layer fabrics in both frequency ranges. However, the number of layers does not have a significant effect on the absorbed and reflected power in the range of 0.8–2.6 GHz. There was a significant difference above 2.6 GHz frequency for absorbed power ratio. An increase in the density of hybrid yarns in the fabric structure leads to an increase in the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness values. Two-metal placement has a higher absorbed power than the full and one-metal placements, respectively. The samples which have double layers and including metal wire were in their all wefts reached the maximum electromagnetic shielding effectiveness values for stainless steel (78.70 dB), copper (72.69 dB), and silver composite (57.50 dB) fabrics.
Angiographic assessment of the efficacy of flow diverter treatment for cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Sadasivan Chander , Dholakia Ronak , Peeling Lissa , Gölitz Philipp , Doerfler Arnd , Lieber Baruch B , Fiorella David J , Woo Henry H
Published: July 2019

Background

The recent growth of neuro-endovascular treatment has rekindled interest in the use of angiographic techniques for flow assessment. Aneurysm treatment with flow diverters is particularly amenable to such analysis. We analyze contrast time–density curves — recorded within aneurysms before (pre) and immediately after (post) flow diverter implantation to estimate six-month treatment outcomes.

Methods

Fifty-six patients with 65 aneurysms were treated with flow diverters at two institutions. A region of interest was drawn around the aneurysm perimeter in image sequences taken both pre and post angiography, and the temporal variation in grayscale intensity within the aneurysm (time–density curve) was recorded. Eleven parameters were quantified from each time–density curve. Aneurysm occlusion status was recorded six months post treatment. The change in parameters from pre to post treatment was statistically evaluated between aneurysm occluded and non-occluded groups.

Results

Of the 11 parameters, eight were significantly different before and immediately after flow diversion. Considering the entire data set, none of the parameters was statistically different between the occluded and non-occluded groups. However, subgroup analyses showed that four variables were significantly different between the aneurysm occluded and non-occluded groups. The sensitivity of these variables to predict aneurysm occlusion at six months ranged from 60% to 89%, while the specificity ranged from 55% to 70%.

Conclusions

Device-induced intra-aneurysmal flow alterations quantified by simple aneurysmal time–density curves can potentially be used to predict long-term outcomes of flow diversion. Large multi-center studies will be required to confirm these findings. Patient-to-patient variability in coagulation may need to be incorporated for clinically relevant predictive values.
Theoretical and experimental analysis on deflection control of photovoltaic-electrostatic cantilever beam
Authors: Tang Yujuan , Chen Yusong , Wang Xinjie , Yang Zhong
Published: July 2019

A model of photovoltaic-electrostatic cantilever beam based on lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate ceramic is proposed in this article. New equivalent electrical model of lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate ceramic connected to a parallel plate composed of two copper foils is obtained by modifying the original lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate equivalent electrical model. After that, the mathematical model of photovoltaic-electrostatic cantilever beam is established. Furthermore, the influences of ultraviolet light intensity and copper foil length on the deflection of the photovoltaic-electrostatic cantilever beam are analyzed via the theoretical and experimental methods. The analysis results indicate that the deflection at the free end of cantilever beam increases with the increase in light intensity and length of the copper foil. The photovoltaic-electrostatic flexible cantilever beam can be taken as a micro-actuator with the advantages of remote control and clean drive.
Application of model updating techniques to turbomachinery rotor components
Authors: Alonso Roberto , Albizuri Joseba , Esparza Javier
Published: July 2019

Model updating techniques are commonly used to improve simulation accuracy. Experimental data of component testing under laboratory conditions are normally used to improve analytical predictions of that component under operational conditions. In this study, we have applied these techniques to the dynamics of turbomachinery components. Dynamics of turbomachinery rotor components are normally analysed assuming perfect cyclic symmetry of the basis sector (one blade and its corresponding part of the disc) and this sector is mechanically the same in every angular position. However, the manufacturing process introduces small differences among sectors (mistuning) and changes the global dynamic behaviour. There are several analytical approaches in the literature to model these differences with reduced order models of the whole rotor that include the frequency differences among sectors, which can be obtained experimentally in a component test. Several approaches in the literature use experimental results from a test with a particular set-up in order to obtain the inputs for the models. The approach proposed in this article is just to perform a standard modal test that generates the input for model updating and to extract from the updated model the required input for representing the mistuning phenomena in turbomachinery rotor components.
Cardiac valve replacement for infective endocarditis in patients with end stage renal disease on hemodialysis — A single institution experience
Authors: Medicherla Ratna C , Phair John , Carnevale Matthew , Jakobleff William , Lipsitz Evan , Scher Larry
Published: July 2019

Complications from vascular access are the leading cause of morbidity in the hemodialysis population. The use of tunneled catheters is associated with a greater risk of bacteremia and mortality when compared to other types of hemodialysis access. Infective endocarditis is a serious complication occurring in 2–5% of patients undergoing hemodialysis and is likely secondary to transient bacteremia from repetitive vascular access.

Objective

To review outcomes in hemodialysis-dependent patients requiring cardiac valve replacement for infective endocarditis.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify all patients who underwent valve replacement within a six-year period (January 2009–December 2014). Inclusion criteria included a diagnosis of infective endocarditis and end stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Relevant clinical information including demographics, comorbidities, valve involvement, causative organisms, and type of hemodialysis access (arteriovenous fistula, arteriovenous graft, or tunneled catheter) was collected.

Results

A total of 1497 patients underwent cardiac valve replacement within the six-year period. Of these, 167 patients (11.2%) had infective endocarditis and 119 patients (7.9%) had end stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Overall 30-day mortality for valve replacement was 5.0% (75/1497). Mortality for patients with infective endocarditis was 7.2% (12/167) and for patients with end stage renal disease on hemodialysis was 10.1% (12/119). Thirty-three patients (2.2%) had infective endocarditis and end stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Of these, 12 patients were being dialyzed via arteriovenous fistula, 4 via arteriovenous graft, and 17 via tunneled catheter. Mortality occurred in 2 of 12 patients with arteriovenous fistula, 1 of 4 patients with arteriovenous graft, and 2 of 17 patients with tunneled catheter for an overall mortality of 15.2% (5/33).

Conclusion

Infective endocarditis remains a significant problem in patients with end stage renal disease on hemodialysis, particularly when tunneled catheters are utilized for hemodialysis access. Although appropriate algorithms have been developed to minimize long term use of tunneled catheters, bacteremia remains a significant problem. We reviewed our institutional experience and the medical literature to determine outcomes in hemodialysis-dependent patients with infective endocarditis requiring valve replacement. Despite mortality rates between 42 and 73% reported in the literature, our mortality rate was 15.2%. 1 Care of these critically ill patients must emphasize early diagnosis and aggressive management to optimize outcomes.
The effect of patent expiration on sales of branded competitor drugs in a therapeutic class
Authors: Fujimoto Jeffrey , Tien Daniel M , Snyder Sophie , Hertz Jeppe A , Schweitzer Stuart
Published: July 2019

Background

Generic entry can lower pharmaceutical prices and yield significant cost savings for both patients and health systems. The effect of generic entry has often been measured by sales of the branded drug whose patent has expired, but what is less clear is how branded competitors within the same therapeutic class respond.

Methods

We analyzed the effect of patent expiration of the first innovative drug in a therapeutic class on competitor sales within the same therapeutic class for five major therapeutic classes using data obtained from IMS Health.

Results

Composite quantity sales decreased by 49%, 65%, and 67% in the first three years, respectively, following patent expiration. However, the effect of patent expiration was not uniformly negative; competitors were often able to obtain dominant market share. Additionally, factors beyond patent expiration may affect the rate and timing of branded market contraction which holds significant implications for drug pricing and sales.

Conclusion

Patent expiration is a consequential event for not only the drug undergoing patent expiration, but also the therapeutic class in which the drug is contained. Market dynamics change significantly for competitor-branded products which warrant further research.
Influence of envelope thickness and solar absorptivity of a test cell on time lag and decrement factor
Authors: Toure Pape Moussa , Dieye Younouss , Gueye Prince Momar , Faye Mactar , Sambou Vincent
Published: July 2019

This work deals with the influence of envelope thickness and solar absorption on the time lag and the decrement factor. For this, a test cell of 1 m3 of volume is built with a material commonly used in construction in Senegal, the compressed earth brick stabilized with cement. The ambient-air temperature inside and outside of test cell and solar direct normal irradiance is measured. The test cell is modeled using EnergyPlus software. The comparison of experimental and theoretical ambient-air temperature puts out a great linear showing the reliability of the model. The time lag and the decrement factor are calculated using the air-sol equivalent temperature of the test cell and the inside ambient-air temperature. The time lag and decrement factor of the compressed stabilized earth brick envelope are respectively 0.22 and 6.6 h showing the good thermal inertia of those bricks. A parametric study is performed to determine the effect of envelope thickness and solar absorptivity on the time lag and decrement factor. The results show that the decrement factor decreases with envelope thickness while the time lag increases linearly and that an envelope thickness of 32 cm has a decrement factor of around zero with a maximum time lag of about 12 h for this type of material. The envelope’s solar absorption has a moderate effect on the decrement factor and time lag.
IL-18 polymorphisms (-137C/G and -607A/C) are not associated with tuberculosis
Authors: Zhou Li-Hong , Sheng Yun-Feng
Published: July 2019

Many studies have demonstrated that (IL-18) polymorphisms (including -137C/G and -607A/C) are correlated with the risk of tuberculosis. However, the meaning of this finding remains a matter of debate. In this study, electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar and CNKI, were systemically queried to identify relevant studies. Subsequently, odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were analysed. Our data indicated that the IL-18 -137C/G polymorphism was not related to tuberculosis susceptibility (GG vs. AA odds ratio = 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.43–1.17; GA vs. AA: odds ratio =0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.57–1.13; dominant model: odds ratio = 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.56–1.08; recessive model: odds ratio = 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.46–1.25). Similarly, there was no association between the IL-18 -607A/C polymorphism and tuberculosis susceptibility (AA vs. CC: odds ratio = 1.25, 95% confidence interval 0.87–1.79; CA vs. CC: odds ratio = 1.10, 95% confidence interval 0.93–1.29; dominant model: odds ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.90–1.41; recessive model: odds ratios=1.17, 95% confidence interval 0.90–1.53). No association was found in the subgroup analysis based on the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. In addition, there was no publication bias. The two IL-18 gene polymorphisms (-137C/G and -607A/C) were not markedly correlated with tuberculosis susceptibility. Well-designed studies with more subjects will be required for further validation of these results.
The feasibility, reliability and concurrent validity of the MSReactor computerized cognitive screening tool in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Merlo Daniel , Darby David , Kalincik Tomas , Butzkueven Helmut , van der Walt Anneke
Published: July 2019

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) cognitive tests are resource intensive and limited by practice effects that prevent frequent retesting. Brief, reliable and valid monitoring tools are urgently needed to detect subtle, subclinical cognitive changes in people with MS. Cognitive monitoring over time could contribute to a new definition of disease progression, supplementing routine clinical monitoring.

Methods:

MSReactor is a web-based battery that measures psychomotor (processing) speed, visual attention and working memory, using simple reaction time tasks. Clinic-based tasks were completed at baseline and 6 monthly with home testing 1–3 monthly. Acceptability, quality of life, depression and anxiety surveys were completed. We studied its correlation with the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, practice effects, test–retest reliability and the discriminative ability of MSReactor.

Results:

A total of 450 people with MS were recruited over 18 months, with 81% opting to complete home-based testing. Most participants (96%) would be happy (or neutral) to repeat the tasks again and just four reported the tasks made them ‘very anxious’. Persistence of home testing was high and practice effects stabilized within three tests. MSReactor tasks correlated with Symbol Digit Modalities Test scores and participants with MS performed slower than healthy controls.

Conclusion:

MSReactor is a scalable and reliable cognitive screening tool that can be used in the clinic and remotely. MSReactor task performance correlated with another highly validated cognitive test, was sensitive to MS and baseline predictors of cognitive performance were identified.
Shoulder arthroplasty in patients with upper extremity lymphedema may result in transient or permanent lymphedema worsening
Authors: Lee Julia , Nguyen Ngoc Tram V , Shukla Dave , Sperling John W , Cofield Robert H , Sanchez-Sotelo Joaquin
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Upper extremity lymphedema can complicate mastectomy, lymph node dissection, and radiation. The purpose of this study is to present the outcomes of shoulder arthroplasty in patients with lymphedema.

Methods

The 19 shoulders with a shoulder arthroplasty and lymphedema on the surgical side (6 anatomic, 12 reverse, 1 hemiarthroplasty) were followed for four years (1–10 years). There were 2 males and 17 females; average age was 67.8 (48–86) years. Breast carcinoma was the most common reason for lymphedema (75%). A dedicated lymphedema questionnaire could be completed for 14 shoulders.

Results

Pain improved from moderate or severe preoperatively to no or mild in 18 shoulders. Motion improved in elevation (55° preoperatively, 107° at last follow-up), external rotation (14°, 43°), and internal rotation (sacrum, L5). Complications included an acromion stress fracture with a deep infection (1), deep infection (1), superficial infection (1), and glenoid loosening (1). Lymphedema worsened in nine cases, but worsening was permanent in only four. Currently, lymphedema treatment is being performed by 93% of survey respondents. No patients reported lymphangitis or lymphangiosarcoma.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthroplasty for an upper extremity with lymphedema provides substantial improvements in pain and motion; however, infection is a concerning complication. Fifty percent of the patients will experience worsening of their lymphedema and in 20% worsening may be permanent.
Role of oral anticoagulant therapy for secondary prevention in patients with stable atherothrombotic disease manifestations
Authors: Cho Sung Won , Franchi Francesco , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: July 2019

Coronary artery disease and peripheral arterial disease are strong predictors of risk for a future ischemic event. Despite the utilization of effective secondary prevention strategies, the prevalence of ischemic recurrences remains high, underscoring the need for effective secondary prevention antithrombotic treatment regimens. To date, most of the tested approaches have been with the use of antiplatelet therapies, used either individually or in combination. However, most recent findings support the potential role of oral anticoagulant therapy in addition to antiplatelet therapy to reduce the risk of ischemic recurrences. This approach has been tested in both acute and stable settings of patients with cardiovascular disease manifestations. The present manuscript provides an overview on the rationale and clinical trial updates on the role of oral anticoagulant therapy, in particular rivaroxaban used at the so-called vascular protection dose, in adjunct to antiplatelet therapy (i.e. aspirin), a strategy known as dual pathway inhibition, for secondary prevention of ischemic recurrences in patients with stable atherosclerotic disease manifestations.
Effects of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists on comorbidities in older patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Onoviran Olusola F. , Li Dongming , Toombs Smith Sarah , Raji Mukaila A.
Published: July 2019

Elderly patients with diabetes are at high risk of polypharmacy because of multiple coexisting diseases and syndromes. Polypharmacy increases the risk of drug–drug and drug–disease interactions in these patients, who may already have age-related sensory and cognitive deficits; such deficits may delay timely communication of early symptoms of adverse drug events. Several glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been approved for diabetes: liraglutide, exenatide, lixisenatide, dulagluatide, semaglutide, and albiglutide. Some are also approved for treatment of obesity. The current review of literature along with clinical case discussion provides evidence supporting GLP-1 RAs as diabetes medications for polypharmacy reduction in older diabetes patients because of their multiple pleiotropic effects on comorbidities (e.g. hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and fatty liver) and syndromes (e.g. osteoporosis and sleep apnea) that commonly co-occur with diabetes. Using one medication (in this case, GLP-1 RAs) to address multiple conditions may help reduce costs, medication burden, adverse drug events, and medication nonadherence.
Use of nonselective β blockers after variceal eradication in cirrhotic patients undergoing secondary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding: a critical review of current evidence
Authors: Xu Xiangbo , Guo Xiaozhong , Tacke Frank , Shao Xiaodong , Qi Xingshun
Published: July 2019

Nonselective β blockers (NSBBs) combined with esophageal variceal ligation (EVL) are recommended for secondary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB) in cirrhotic patients according to the current practice guidelines and consensus. However, until now, there is a paucity of recommendations regarding the use of NSBBs in cirrhotic patients who achieved variceal eradication. In this review paper, we firstly introduced a case who achieved variceal eradication after additional use of NSBBs for secondary prophylaxis of EVB and then did not require further endoscopic therapy during repeated endoscopic surveillance, and subsequently discuss the importance of NSBBs for secondary prophylaxis of EVB, the effect of NSBBs after variceal eradication, adherence to NSBBs, screening for variceal recurrence, and timing of endoscopic surveillance after variceal eradication.
Self-censorship of regime support in authoritarian states: Evidence from list experiments in China
Authors: Robinson Darrel , Tannenberg Marcus
Published: July 2019

The study of popular support for authoritarian regimes has long relied on the assumption that respondents provide truthful answers to surveys. However, when measuring regime support in closed political systems there is a distinct risk that individuals are less than forthright due to fear that their opinions may be made known to the public or the authorities. In order to test this assumption, we conducted a novel web-based survey in China in which we included four list experiments of commonly used items in the comparative literature on regime support. We find systematic bias for all four measures; substantially more individuals state that they support the regime with direct questioning than when presented with our indirect list experiments. The level of self-censorship, which ranges from 24.5 to 26.5 percentage points, is considerably higher than previously thought. Self-censorship is further most prevalent among the wealthy, urban, female and younger respondents.
Leadership credibility and support for US foreign policy: Experimental evidence from Japan
Authors: Hearn Eddie
Published: July 2019

Does an internationally unpopular president reduce support for US foreign policy? This article examines how President Trump’s endorsement influences foreign policy preferences abroad. A nationally-representative survey experiment is conducted on Japanese attitudes concerning the government’s response to the recent North Korean missile launches. It is found that leadership credibility has a significant impact on the public. Japanese citizens are less likely to support an aggressive response to North Korea when it is endorsed by President Trump. The effect of leadership credibility, however, may not be entirely distinct from general anti-American sentiments. These results indicate that, even in high politics related to national security, Trump’s lack of credibility abroad hinders allies’ ability to cooperate with the USA by eroding domestic support, but it is difficult to separate the Trump effect from broader attitudes toward the USA.
Person-positivity bias, social category labels, and attitudes toward gays and lesbians
Authors: McCabe Katherine T.
Published: July 2019

This study assesses how social category labels influence public opinion toward gay and lesbian attitude objects. The results provide some support for the existence of person-positivity bias whereby people express more positive attitudes toward attitude objects that are personalized. In a survey experiment, respondents rated attitude objects where the question wording was manipulated to include either person descriptors or sexuality construct descriptors and either colloquial or clinical terminology. In particular, the findings show that respondents express significantly colder feeling thermometer scores toward the clinical construct “homosexuality” than the person descriptor “gays and lesbians.” The results suggest, first, that survey researchers should be mindful of these terminology effects in question wording, and that the strategic choice of using more or less personalized terminology in elite rhetoric has the potential to marginally influence public opinion. However, the effects of terminology should not be overstated. The effects of using person descriptors or sexuality construct descriptors are not significant in all cases and are generally smaller than differences in attitudes between respondents of different social and political backgrounds.
Blastic natural killer cell lymphoma/leukaemia in a cat
Authors: Hirabayashi Miyuki , Chambers James K , Sugawara Mei , Ohmi Aki , Tsujimoto Hajime , Nakayama Hiroyuki , Uchida Kazuyuki
Published: July 2019

Case summary

A 7-year-old mixed-breed cat presented with subcutaneous oedema and erythema extending from the right axilla to the abdomen. Fine-needle aspiration of the subcutaneous lesion revealed large, atypical, round cells. A clonality analysis for the T-cell receptor-gamma and immunoglobulin heavy chain genes showed no clonal rearrangement. The presumed diagnosis was lymphoma and the cat was treated with prednisolone and L-asparaginase but died 78 days after initial treatment. At necropsy, an oedematous subcutaneous mass in the right axilla, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy of the mediastinum and left axilla were observed. Histopathological examination revealed diffuse infiltration of large atypical round cells in the subcutaneous mass, liver, spleen, lymph nodes and bone marrow. Immunohistochemically, the tumour cells were strongly positive for CD56, and negative for CD3, CD20, CD79a, CD57, granzyme B and perforin. Based on these findings, the cat was diagnosed with blastic natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma/leukaemia.

Relevance and novel information

Here, we report the pathological and clinical findings of NK cell lymphoma/leukaemia in a cat. The antibody for human CD56, a diagnostic marker for human NK cell neoplasms, showed cross-reactivity with feline CD56 by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting analysis. The antibody could be a useful diagnostic marker for feline NK cell neoplasms.
Validating a Competency-Based HIT Curriculum in a BHA and MHA Program Through the Voice of the Customer
Authors: Kruse Clemens Scott , Lieneck Cristian
Published: July 2019

Competency mapping in higher education is not a new technique for curriculum development. Competency-based curriculum in health care administration programs has appeared in the literature every few years. Texas State University has taught a bachelor’s in health administration (BHA) and a master’s in health administration (MHA) for decades and recently wanted to validate its curriculum. Professors began with one course, the management of health information technology (HIT). We had two objectives with this work: What are the current health care information technology competencies required of health care administrators? Is the quality and depth of the current HIT curriculum sufficient? A competency-mapping exercise was used for the first question, and a survey mechanism was used for the second. Three demographic, 10 Likert-type-scale statements, and one free-text question were presented through an online survey instrument to stakeholders (alumni and preceptors). Stakeholders were asked about the importance, quality, and capabilities enabled by the HIT course. Nonparametric tests were used for analysis. The competency-mapping exercise highlighted clear relationships with learning objectives and identified two shortcomings in the current syllabus for both BHA and a MHA programs. Sixty-nine alumni and 20 preceptors provided valid responses to the surveys. Stakeholders generally agreed with the content of the current courses, but asked for updated material and more exposure to live electronic health records. Our methods highlighted shortfalls in our curriculum for one of our courses. We will next create surveys for the rest of the curriculum, engaging with our stakeholders in a continuous quality-improvement manner.
Does Prior Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Affect Outcomes of Subsequent Total Knee Arthroplasty? A Systematic Review
Authors: Chaudhry Zaira S. , Salem Hytham S. , Purtill James J. , Hammoud Sommer
Published: July 2019

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament injury may accelerate knee osteoarthritis, and patients with a history of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) tend to undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at a greater rate than patients without a history of ACLR.

Purpose:

To compare clinical outcomes of TKA in patients with and without a history of ACLR through a systematic review.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of the PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane Central, and SPORTDiscus databases from inception through November 2018 was performed to identify studies directly comparing outcomes of TKA between patients with and without a history of ipsilateral ACLR. Eligible studies were included in this review if they reported at least 1 outcome measure.

Results:

Included for review were 5 retrospective case-control studies collectively evaluating TKA outcomes in 318 patients (176 males, 142 females) with a history of ACLR and 455 matched controls. The mean age in the ACLR and control groups was 58.5 years and 60.9 years, respectively. The mean follow-up period after arthroplasty was 3.4 years in the ACLR group and 3.3 years in the control group. The mean time between ACLR and arthroplasty was 21.8 years. Three studies noted greater operative time in the ACLR group than in the control group. No differences in intraoperative blood loss were reported. Greater preoperative extension deficits were noted in the ACLR group in 2 studies. Two studies reported increased preoperative Knee Society Score function scores in the ACLR group, but no differences in postoperative subjective outcome scores were noted in any of the studies. One study reported increased incidence of periprosthetic joint infection and a higher total reoperation rate in the ACLR group, and another study reported an increased incidence of manipulation under anesthesia in the ACLR group.

Conclusion:

Short- and midterm subjective scores and functional outcomes of TKA appear to be comparable in patients with and without a history of ACLR, although the risk for reoperation after TKA may be greater in patients with prior ACLR. Surgeons should anticipate increased operative time in patients with a history of ACLR. However, the findings of this review must be interpreted within the context of its limitations.
Balancing Social and Regional Equity: Higher Education Policy Trajectory in Kerala
Authors: Mathew A.
Published: July 2019

Kerala State higher education policy is a narrative of the government’s perpetual engagement to safeguard its regional and social equity, evolved consciously since its erstwhile princely rule. With more than three-fourths of colleges under private managements, only Kerala, in India, manages to keep at bay the pressure by the unaided private managements for a free run in education and higher education, which, with its relatively inexorable propensity to privatization and commercialization, significantly damages its equity. The Kerala State Higher Education Council, established in 2007, has been a touchstone of this policy ethos to unremittingly sustain equity, access, and excellence through state control.
Strategies for Creating Innovators in Thailand’s Higher Education
Authors: Ruchiwit Manyat , Patchotasingh Marut , Phanphairoj Kanjanee
Published: July 2019

Thailand has set a goal to produce graduates who have critical thinking and innovative skills that are useful for the industrial sector. The purpose was to apply a strategic management process as the framework of this study consisting of (1) situational analysis, (2) strategic formation, (3) strategic implementation, and (4) strategic control and feedback. This study proposes an innovation program consisting of (1) curriculum goals, (2) continuous teaching and learning, and (3) regular follow-ups and evaluation of innovative projects and their impacts on society. It can be concluded that the country’s development of innovators requires the cooperation of all sectors to create a solid, sustainable, and productive system that can produce innovative workers to develop the economy, society, and the nation, and to enhance the national competitiveness in the world.
Ultrasound findings in finger flexor tendons in systemic sclerosis: A cross-sectional pilot study
Authors: Hughes Michael , Manning Joanne , Moore Tonia , Herrick Ariane L , Chitale Sarang
Published: July 2019

Objective:

Finger flexion contractures are an important cause of disability in patients with systemic sclerosis; however, their pathophysiology is poorly understood. Our aim was to assess the feasibility of scanning finger flexor tendons in patients with systemic sclerosis and explore the ultrasound findings in these tendons, including measurement of finger flexor tendon complex.

Methods:

Grey-scale and power Doppler ultrasound assessment of the finger flexor tendon complex including tendon structure and surrounding soft tissue. Measurements of the finger flexor tendon complex (A1 pulley, tendon and palmar plate) were made. Feasibility was assessed by the number of fingers which could be measured.

Results:

We studied the second to fifth flexor tendons (n = 160) of both hands in 20 patients with systemic sclerosis, including early and established disease. We were able to assess the finger flexor tendon complex and make measurements of the flexor tendon and palmar plate in all (n = 40) and A1 pulley in almost all (n = 39) of the studied fingers. Common pathologies identified included peritendinous (n = 12) and soft tissue (n = 8) calcification. Tendon thickening was seen in six patients, but synovitis/tenosynovitis was rare. The A1 pulley was thickened in patients with systemic sclerosis (0.46 mm), in particular, those with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (0.50 mm).

Conclusion:

We were able to successfully assess, including making measurements of, the finger flexor tendon complex in patients with systemic sclerosis. Our study showed calcifications in the peritendinous areas and soft tissue and thickening of the A1 pulley. These findings may play a role in the pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis–hand contractures by causing mechanical impingement of the finger flexion mechanism. This pilot study will guide future research to look for potential (treatable) causes of finger flexion contractures in patients with systemic sclerosis.
The progressive Orient: Gay tourism to Tel Aviv and Israeli ethnicities
Authors: Hartal Gilly , Sasson-Levy Orna
Published: July 2019

Tel Aviv is becoming a hotspot for gay tourism through the support of municipal and national forces. The city is marketed as a Middle Eastern gay utopia, drawing tourists due to its location, LGBT nightlife, and Oriental flavor. Meanwhile, local Israeli LGBT individuals strive to produce themselves as Western, both performatively and politically. This paper discusses how the Tel Aviv Municipality, the state, commercial actors, and LGBT individuals utilize Israeli ethnicities. We argue that the dissonance between Orientalist images and Westernization processes, which are particularly noticeable in the marketing of gay tourism to Tel Aviv, maintains a twofold construction of Tel Aviv as a Middle Eastern global city, which we term the Progressive Orient. Reinforcing the differentiation from the Middle East and other Arab countries, while embracing Orientalist images and tastes under the guise of authenticity, this particular kind of pinkwashing also differentiates the city as other than the rest of Israel. This in turn creates new nuances of ethnic Israeli gayness illustrated by an emerging gay Mizrahi culture.
Full-Thickness Macular Hole Formation After Repair of Rhegmatogenous and Tractional Retinal Detachment
Authors: Cunningham Matthew A. , Fink Samantha , Kumar Jaya B. , Mavrofrides Elias C. , Houston S.K. Steven , Jeroudi Abdallah M. , Barnard Thomas A.
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

This article reports the clinical features, associations, and outcomes of patients with full-thickness macular hole (MH) formation after pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment (RD).

Methods:

A retrospective, interventional case series is presented of consecutive patients undergoing surgical repair of MH following prior tractional or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair from September 2014 to October 2018 at a single vitreoretinal surgery practice. The size of the MH, presence of epiretinal membrane (ERM), rate of MH closure, and visual outcome following repair were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 996 cases of rhegmatogenous and tractional retinal detachment repair were identified. The average time from the RD surgery to MH diagnosis was 72 days. The incidence of subsequent MH formation in patients who underwent surgery was 0.8% (8/996). The presence of ERM prior to MH repair was noted in 50% of these cases (4/8). In cases with at least 3 months of postoperative follow-up, MH closure was achieved in 100% of eyes after a single surgery. The mean preoperative visual acuity (VA) was 2.06 logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) units (Snellen equivalent, 20/2296) and significantly improved to 0.72 logMAR units (Snellen, 20/104; P = .017) at the last follow-up after MH repair. All patients had improvement in VA at the final postoperative visit, with a VA of 20/200 or better achieved in 87.5% of cases.

Conclusions:

Although MH formation after successful RD repair is uncommon, favorable visual and anatomic results can be obtained.
Aqueous Cytokines in Sympathetic Ophthalmia Following Complications of Intravitreal Aflibercept
Authors: Juncal Verena R. , Cho Ryan , Bakshi Nupura , Ghaffar Hasan , Yucel Yeni Y. , Muni Rajeev H.
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

This article reports a case of sympathetic ophthalmia (SO) following complications from bilateral intravitreal aflibercept injections, including infectious endophthalmitis requiring vitreoretinal surgery in the left eye (OS) and sterile intraocular inflammation in the right eye (OD), and describes the aqueous cytokine profile of this patient.

Methods:

The patient was a 51-year-old man with SO. Cytokine levels in the aqueous humor of the sympathizing eye were measured at presentation.

Results:

A patient being treated with bilateral aflibercept injections for diabetic macular edema developed infectious endophthalmitis OS requiring a pars plana vitrectomy and sterile intraocular inflammation OD, which subsequently led to SO. Enucleation of the exciting eye (OS) was performed and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. Cytokine levels in the sympathizing eye revealed high concentrations of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, inducible protein-10, and interleukin-8 and -10.

Conclusions:

SO can occur after vitreoretinal surgery for endophthalmitis in the exciting eye and sterile intraocular inflammation in the sympathizing eye following aflibercept injections.
Optimal Media Mix for IEC Campaigns Using Fuzzy Linguistic Genetic Algorithm: A Study of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)
Authors: Sharma Manu , Joshi Sudhanshu
Published: July 2019

Under ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ numerous IEC campaigns have launched with multiple media vehicles to achieve an aim of maximizing the awareness level and triggering the mass to adapt behavioral change. Media optimization is a challenging process due to budgetary constraints and multiple media vehicles, but it leads to radical shift in the expenditures as well as in the outcomes. This research study follows two-phase procedure to identify the optimal media mix for IEC Campaigns under ‘Swachh Bharat by applying AHP (Analytical hierarchical process) followed by Fuzzy linguistic genetic algorithms to identify the top 5 media vehicle for IEC campaigns further followed by Fuzzy linguistic genetic algorithms in second phase find the best fit of media insertions with least cost. Both the methods are used in order to find a best fit of cost effective media for promoting the National cleanliness drive ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’. This study is helpful for the stakeholders and decision-makers to plan the IEC campaigns effectively and efficiently.