bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three dimensional birefringence control using nanoparticles for uniaxially oriented films
Authors: Takatoh Kohki , Goda Kazuya , Akimoto Mitsuhiro , Abo Tomohiro
Published: July 2017

In uniaxially stretched films, the refractive indices perpendicular to the stretching direction have the same value, and so, the out-of-plane birefringence is half that of the in-plane birefringence. This means that these values cannot be controlled independently in uniaxially stretched films. The same relationship was previously observed when needle-shaped nanoparticles were added to uniaxially stretched films. This paper presents a method to achieve the three-dimensional birefringence control of uniaxially stretched films. When we added plate-shaped smectite nanoparticles to uniaxially stretched films, different relationships were observed for the in- and out-of-plane birefringence. The magnitude of the out-of-plane birefringence increased more than would be expected according to the usual relationship. According to our results, uniaxially stretched films with no out-of-plane birefringence and negative in-plane birefringence can be formed by adding smectite nanoparticles to polymer films with negative in-plane birefringence. Using our method, the three-dimensional birefringence of uniaxial polymers can be controlled, and the possibility of the uniaxial films could be drastically extended.
The truth about “it is true that…”
Authors: Akman Varol , Senol M. Burak
Published: July 2017

Deflationism, one of the influential philosophical doctrines of truth, holds that there is no property of truth, and that overt uses of the predicate “true” are redundant. However, the hypothetical examples used by theorists to exemplify deflationism are isolated sentences, offering little to examine what the predicate adds to meaning within context. We oppose the theory not on philosophical but on empirical grounds. We collect 7,610 occurrences of “it is true that” from 10 influential periodicals published in the United States. We classify and annotate these with respect to the positions of coordinating and subordinating conjunctions that they contain. This way we investigate the contextual relationships between the proposition following “it is true that” with its surroundings. Overall, 34 different syntactical patterns are encountered. In some occurrences of “true”, the predicate acts in the same manner as a performative verb does. These occurrences, having been observed in linguistically reliable media, constitute pragmatic counter-examples to deflationism.
Biosemiotic conflict in communication
Authors: Askenasy Jean Jacques
Published: July 2017

Maurice Merleau-Ponty and Y. Michael Barilan have described the conflictual aspects of human communication (Merleau-Ponty, 1967). Humans communicate through verbal language, body-language, and stereotypes. (I coined the term ‘phatic communication’ for stereotypes.) These 3 types of communication can be in harmony or conflict.

Verbal (VC) and corporal (CC) communication are well known. During the past decade, I have examined the field of phatic communication (PC). Phatic communication consists of laughing, crying, yawning, sighing, gasping, sneezing and hiccupping, actions that date back over 500 million years to the Reptilia class of the animal kingdom. During the last million years, these biosemiotic actions have acquired psychological meanings in humans as a result of neocortex connections.

The simultaneous presence of threatening verbal signs with empathic stereotype signs, such as violence with laughter or aggression with a smile, requires a rational / emotional effort to decide within milliseconds if the message is a threat or joke.
The Cobweb of Context
Authors: Gruenpeter Gold Leah
Published: July 2017

The question of context is fundamental in the debate on “What is art?” What the uses of the term mean colour all debates about life and art. Since I am interested in the interpretation and understanding of context in art, and also in life, as well as in how visual arts reinforce or change our mind-constructs either consciously (intentionally) or automatically, I investigate the place of context within this scheme, while referring to various approaches to context and raise series of questions that offer alternatives and point to difficulties.
Coherent amplification of X-ray scattering from meso-structures
Authors: Lhermitte Julien R. , Stein Aaron , Tian Cheng , Zhang Yugang , Wiegart Lutz , Fluerasu Andrei , Gang Oleg , Yager Kevin G.
Published: July 2017

Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) often includes an unwanted background, which increases the required measurement time to resolve the sample structure. This is undesirable in all experiments, and may make measurement of dynamic or radiation-sensitive samples impossible. Here, we demonstrate a new technique, applicable when the scattering signal is background-dominated, which reduces the requisite exposure time. Our method consists of exploiting coherent interference between a sample with a designed strongly scattering `amplifier'. A modified angular correlation function is used to extract the symmetry of the interference term; that is, the scattering arising from the interference between the amplifier and the sample. This enables reconstruction of the sample's symmetry, despite the sample scattering itself being well below the intensity of background scattering. Thus, coherent amplification is used to generate a strong scattering term (well above background), from which sample scattering is inferred. We validate this method using lithographically defined test samples.
Engaging professionals with serious games: the Lean Healthcare Lab at Siena University Hospital
Authors: Barnabè Federico , Giorgino Maria Cleofe , Guercini Jacopo , Bianciardi Caterina , Mezzatesta Vincenzo
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to stimulate interest in the potentials of serious games within organizations. Through the examination of a case study, emphasis is given to serious games designed for health care (HC) organizations that are adopting lean thinking principles and tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses how serious games can be designed and implemented in practice by describing a case study based on a HC organization. The program, now in its second year, has been used extensively to train HC professionals.

Findings

The article is based on the authors’ firsthand experience with serious games and the outcome of several projects carried out in the HC setting under analysis. Serious games were found to be powerful training and management development tools as well as engaging environments for professionals. Specifically, The Lean Healthcare Lab supported professionals in their use and implementation of several Lean principles and techniques.

Research limitations/implications

The article suggests the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of serious games also to improve team performance and develop leadership skills.

Practical implications

Serious games have an enormous potential in sustaining processes of both individual and organizational learning, as well as facilitating improved teamwork. Moreover, serious games are very effective educational tools when compared to more conventional programs.

Originality/value

The approach described in this study can be used to design and implement serious games in any type of organization, in particular, those employing highly skilled professionals. Additionally, this article highlights how serious games can provide learners with a simulated close-to-reality environment where they are challenged to develop policies and use a variety of Lean and management tools.
Digital archives from the ground up
Authors: Person Debora A. , Plumb Tawnya K.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

For many years, the librarians at University of Wyoming’s George William Hopper Law Library fielded questions about the history of the law school and alumni. Unfortunately, no one collection of institutional historical documents was available to search for relevant answers. The result was a decision to collect historic materials in a digital archive to make them available to anyone in the law school who might field such inquiries and to preserve them for future interest. The purpose of this case study is to provide a blueprint for building a digital archives from the ground up.

Design/methodology/approach

The digital archive began with print-born historical documents, scanned as preservation copies and entered into a database of images and files to which searchable metadata could be added. In addition to historical materials, it was important to collect the materials that the law school and the law library were producing. Therefore, the project was twofold: collect, preserve and make searchable the printed historic materials in a digital environment and harvest, preserve and make searchable print-born and digital-born materials as part of an ongoing process. To do this, appropriate software had to be identified.

Findings

The following steps blueprint the building of an archive on a digital platform: establish the site’s internet address, title and description; select a look and feel template and personalize the archive; create collections; identify Dublin Core preferences; add items and files using controlled vocabulary; experiment with any available plugins; and promote and provide access to the archive.

Originality/value

The digital archives project initiated by the library has led to other initiatives and opportunities for service.
InDiPres: a statewide collaborative approach to digital preservation
Authors: May Cinda Ann
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate how cultural memory organizations in Indiana used Library Services Technology Act grant funding as seed money to form a collaborative group to attain an affordable and sustainable digital preservation solution.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study relates how concern for digital content created across Indiana by an array of cultural memory organizations led to a multi-year quest to establish a community-based, cost-effective, open-source digital preservation solution to address a common problem.

Findings

Interest in a collaborative community-based digital preservation solution, especially among small- and mid-sized under-resourced organizations, exists across the spectrum of Indiana cultural heritage institutions, but education and commitment are key to the success of a statewide solution.

Originality/value

While focusing on cultural memory organizations in Indiana, the case study also provides information about the process of establishing a digital preservation collaborative to leverage resources to provide a cost-effective and sustainable long-term solution, particularly for small- to mid-sized institutions.
Social entrepreneurship orientation: development of a measurement scale
Authors: Kraus Sascha , Niemand Thomas , Halberstadt Jantje , Shaw Eleanor , Syrjä Pasi
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Despite growing scholarly interest in social entrepreneurs and the social enterprises (SE) they create, few studies have examined the hybridity of SE including, surprisingly, whether they adopt an entrepreneurial orientation (EO). One explanation for this may be the continuing lack of an appropriate scale measuring social entrepreneurship orientation (SEO). The purpose of this paper is to address this research gap by proposing an initial SEO scale based on input from scholars in the fields of entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed mixed methods and a two stage design. In stage 1, a Delphi study with 18 researchers with expertise of investigating entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship was used to generate constructs combining aspects of both social and EOs. In stage 2, the authors assessed the face validity of the derived items from the Delphi study by conducting a survey with 82 such experts.

Findings

This paper provides fresh empirical insights into how SEO can be measured by proposing, for the first time, a 12 item scale with four dimensions for the first time.

Research limitations/implications

The authors recommend that future studies employ quantitative methods, particularly with firms exhibiting differing levels of the “socialness” dimension which the authors propose and that such studies involve a variety of research informants. Statistical analysis of data collected across large sample sizes will help evaluate the reliability and validity of the scale which the authors propose.

Practical implications

This paper includes implications for future research based on the proposed SEO measurement scale.

Originality/value

This paper develops the first SEO scale based on empirical data collected from experts in the fields of entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship.
Research suggestions for management, spirituality, religion
Authors: Petrosko Joseph M. , Alagaraja Meera
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to suggest effective choices for key decisions when pursuing a programmatic research strategy in management, spirituality and religion (MSR). An example is provided of how the suggestions can be used.

Design/methodology/approach

Suggestions for research were gleaned from current sources in research methodology. The example provided was a study of 398 employees who were surveyed on spirituality, job satisfaction and intent to leave their job. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test three research hypotheses.

Findings

Using item analysis, exploratory factor analysis and SEM can be a way to pursue research using variables related to spirituality and religion.

Originality/value

A programmatic research strategy employing SEM can effectively model how spirituality/religious variables directly and indirectly affect outcomes significant to the organization.
A bibliometric analysis of emergency management using information systems (2000-2016)
Authors: Du Helen S. , Ke Xiaobo , Chu Samuel K.W. , Chan Lok Ting
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a statistical analysis of research into emergency management (EM) using information systems (IS) for the period 2000-2016.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, research trends in the area of EM using IS are analysed using various parameters, including trends on publications and citations, disciplinary distribution, journals, research institutions and regional cooperation. Through a keyword co-occurrence analysis, this study identifies the evolution of the main keywords in this area, and examines the changes and developments in the main focus of scholars in this period. The study also explores the main research orientations in the field by analysing and integrating the results of two cluster analyses conducted from keyword- and reference-based perspectives, respectively.

Findings

The area of EM using IS has received increased attention and interest by researchers and practitioners. It is suggested that more cooperation among research institutions is required to help facilitate the further development of the area. Six main research orientations are identified: namely Web 2.0-enabled research, geographic information technology (IT), IT-based research, the contextual use of IT, crisis collaboration research and mass media communication research, since the research area first became popular in 2006.

Originality/value

This study is the first to comprehensively map the landscape of EM by conducting a bibliometric analysis of the research using IS. The authors’ findings can help academics and emergency managers gain a comprehensive understanding of the research area, and guide scholars towards producing more effective findings.
Adverse drug reaction early warning using user search data
Authors: Shang Wei , Chen Hsinchun , Livoti Christine
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework to detect adverse drug reactions (ADRs) using internet user search data, so that ADR events can be identified early. Empirical investigation of Avandia, a type II diabetes treatment, is conducted to illustrate how to implement the proposed framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Typical ADR identification measures and time series processing techniques are used in the proposed framework. Google Trends Data are employed to represent user searches. The baseline model is a disproportionality analysis using official drug reaction reporting data from the US Food and Drug Administration’s Adverse Event Reporting System.

Findings

Results show that Google Trends series of Avandia side effects search reveal a significant early warning signal for the side effect emergence of Avandia. The proposed approach of using user search data to detect ADRs is proved to have a longer leading time than traditional drug reaction discovery methods. Three more drugs with known adverse reactions are investigated using the selected approach, and two are successfully identified.

Research limitations/implications

Validation of Google Trends data’s representativeness of user search is yet to be explored. In future research, user search in other search engines and in healthcare web forums can be incorporated to obtain a more comprehensive ADR early warning mechanism.

Practical implications

Using internet data in drug safety management with a proper early warning mechanism may serve as an earlier signal than traditional drug adverse reaction. This has great potential in public health emergency management.

Originality/value

The research work proposes a novel framework of using user search data in ADR identification. User search is a voluntary drug adverse reaction exploration behavior. Furthermore, user search data series are more concise and accurate than text mining in forums. The proposed methods as well as the empirical results will shed some light on incorporating user search data as a new source in pharmacovigilance.
Research on the microstructure and properties of the overhanging structure formed by selective laser melting
Authors: Sun Jianfeng , Yang Zhou , Yang Yongqiang , Wang Di
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the different between matrix and overhanging structure and indicate the laws and mechanism of overhanging structure formed by selective laser melting (SLM).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper includes processing the matrix and overhanging structure with optimized parameters and analyzing the microstructure and properties of matrix and overhanging with OM, SEM, XRD etc. so as to analyze and reveal the laws and mechanism of overhanging structure formed by SLM.

Findings

The solidification of overhanging structure begins from the structure’s edge and extends to its center; the distribution of the Cr with a diameter of 250 nm in the Fe matrix is uniform; the grain in the overhanging structure is growing faster than the grain in the matrix. The overhanging structure mainly composed by austenite has no apparent layer. Moreover, the microhardness of the overhanging structure is 258.6-294.0 Hv0.3, smaller than the microhardness of the matrix which is 236.4-300.9 Hv0.3.

Originality/value

This paper clarifies how to manufacture overhanging structure and non-overhanging structure matrix with optimized parameters, analyzes the microstructures and compares the properties of both overhanging structure and non-overhanging structure “matrix”, so as to analyze the reasons for the forming of the overhanging structure, which in turn lauds basic data foundation for the theoretical studies in the future.
Uncertainty analysis and probabilistic segmentation of electrical resistivity images: the 2D inverse problem
Authors: Fernández‐Martínez Juan Luis , Xu Shan , Sirieix Colette , Fernández‐Muniz Zulima , Riss Joëlle
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we present the uncertainty analysis of the 2D electrical tomography inverse problem using model reduction and performing the sampling via an explorative member of the Particle Swarm Optimization family, called the Regressive‐Regressive Particle Swarm Optimization. The procedure begins with a local inversion to find a good resistivity model located in the nonlinear equivalence region of the set of plausible solutions. The dimension of this geophysical model is then reduced using spectral decomposition, and the uncertainty space is explored via Particle Swarm Optimization. Using this approach, we show that it is possible to sample the uncertainty space of the electrical tomography inverse problem. We illustrate this methodology with the application to a synthetic and a real dataset coming from a karstic geological set‐up. By computing the uncertainty of the inverse solution, it is possible to perform the segmentation of the resistivity images issued from inversion. This segmentation is based on the set of equivalent models that have been sampled, and makes it possible to answer geophysical questions in a probabilistic way, performing risk analysis.
Effectiveness of 8‐ or 12‐weeks of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir in real‐world treatment‐naïve, genotype 1 hepatitis C infected patients
Authors: Curry M. P. , Tapper E. B. , Bacon B. , Dieterich D. , Flamm S. L. , Guest L. , Kowdley K. V. , Lee Y. , Milligan S. , Tsai N. , Younossi Z. , Afdhal N. H.
Published: July 2017

Background

Treatment of genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with combination direct acting anti‐virals is associated with very high rates of sustained virological response (SVR). Daily combination of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir for 12 weeks is approved for the treatment of genotype 1 HCV patients, though noncirrhotic patients who are naïve to treatment with a baseline HCV RNA <6 million IU/mL can be treated for 8 weeks. This guidance stemmed from a post hoc analysis of the ION 3 clinical trial, which demonstrated similar SVR for patients treated with ledipasvir and sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin for 8 or 12 weeks.

Aim

To compare the SVR for 8 weeks vs 12 weeks of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir in HCV infected patients in a real‐world setting.

Methods

We performed an observational real‐world cohort study of treatment success following 8 or 12 weeks of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir for treatment‐naïve genotype 1 HCV patients.

Results

A total of 826 patients were treated for either 8 (n=252) or 12 weeks (n=574) with ledipasvir and sofosbuvir and achieved SVR rate of 95.3% and there was no statistical difference in SVR rates in the two groups irrespective of any clinical or virological variables.

Conclusions

In treatment‐naïve HCV genotype 1 patients, SVR was 95% in those treated for either 8 weeks or 12 weeks with ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. 8 week ledipasvir and sofosbuvir can reduce costs without compromising outcomes for those patients who qualify for such regimen.
Roadsides: an opportunity for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Arenas Juan M. , Escudero Adrián , Mola Ignacio , Casado Miguel A.
Published: July 2017

Questions

How do roadsides interact with patches of natural vegetation in shaping perennial plant communities in fragmented agricultural areas? Are the observed differences due to the type of roadside (i.e. roadcuts, embankments or road verges) or are there other factors driving community structure and composition?

Location

Stretch of motorway A3 and its surrounding area, central Spain.

Methods

We analysed the variation in perennial plant species composition and diversity among 92 plots (400 m2). The plots were located in five different environmental scenarios, three of them in a fragmented landscape (patches of natural vegetation, embankments and roadcuts) and two in an unfragmented landscape (natural vegetation and road verges). In each plot, the cover of each perennial plant species and eight soil variables were assessed. We used phi coefficient of correlation to determine the scenario preferences of each species, Kruskal–Wallis tests to compare the soil variables between landscape scenarios and eight descriptive variables of the community, and RDA and partial RDA to evaluate the relative importance of the type of environmental scenario on the floristic community.

Results

We identified 130 species, with only 16 species never appearing on roadsides. Perennial total cover, species richness, inverse Simpson's index and number of protected species showed no significant differences between the five scenarios considered. In contrast, the number of nutrient‐demanding species and restricted‐range diversity had lower values in natural vegetation plots. Soil variables and the type of scenario together explained 28.5% of the species composition variation. Of this percentage, 6.8% was explained by soil variables, 12.1% by the type of scenario and 10.0% of the variation was shared between the two data sets.

Conclusions

Our results show that almost all perennial species occurring in natural vegetation patches were also able to reach and settle in roadsides. However, soil conditions and other specific roadside variables generate different plant communities. In spite of the differences found between the perennial plant community of roadsides and their surrounding area, roadsides are excellent reservoirs of biodiversity.
Proper‐Function Moral Realism
Authors: Wisdom Jeffrey
Published: July 2017

A common line of thought in contemporary metaethics is that certain facts about the evolutionary history of humans make moral realism implausible. Two of the most developed evolutionary cases against realism are found in the works of Richard Joyce and Sharon Street. In what follows, I argue that a form of moral realism that I call proper‐function moral realism can meet Joyce and Street's challenges. I begin by sketching the basics of proper‐function moral realism. I then present what I take to be the essence of Street's and Joyce's objections, and I show how proper‐function realism answers them.
Application of structural integrity assessment procedure on an axle pin of a wind turbine
Authors: Gubeljak N. , Cvetic M. , BOŽIĆ Ž. , Predan J.
Published: July 2017

The axle pin is one of the most critical components of a wind turbine. Because 2 bearings are mounted on the axle pin, it is not subjected to torque and is designed only to carry bending stresses. The axle is usually made by a casting process, which can induce defects. After casting of the axle pin, radial surface cracks were detected outside by ultrasonic and magnetic particle inspection. The first goal of this paper is to establish defect tolerance in the design of the axle pin, ie, at what critical crack size can we expect failure of the axle pin? The second aim is assessing the remaining lifetime of the defected axle pin used in operation of a wind turbine. Both issues are important to prevent unexpected failure and establish a system for on‐line structural health monitoring. This paper presents a procedure for the structural integrity assessment of axle pins by considering their material properties and fatigue crack growth parameters and comparing them with their fatigue design curve.
Changes in the short‐term intake rate of herbage by heifers grazing annual grasses throughout the growing season
Authors: Guzatti Gabriela Cristina , Duchini Paulo Gonçalves , Sbrissia André Fischer , Mezzalira Jean Carlos , Almeida João Gabriel Rossini , Carvalho Paulo César de Faccio , Ribeiro‐Filho Henrique Mendonça Nunes
Published: July 2017

Annual temperate grasses go through abrupt changes in morphological composition during the growing season, which can affect ingestive behavior of grazing cattle. However, few studies have examined the effects of gradual structural changes in annual temperate pastures on the herbage intake rate during the growing season. We hypothesized that lenient grazing (removal of 40% of the initial pre‐grazing height) maintains short‐term intake rate (STIR) of grazing cattle over the entire growing season, even with decreased leaf/stem ratios. The studied pastures contained Avena strigosa, Lolium multiflorum and a mixture of the two species. Short‐term intake rate was measured using the double weighing technique, evaluating both bite rate and bite mass. The percentage of stem + pseudostem and leaf lamina lengths in the herbage mass were measured. Relationships between sward structure and animal ingestive behavior were also examined. As the pasture growing season progressed, the STIR of heifers grazing annual temperate grass swards was affected more by the time required to take a bite than by bite mass. Moreover, the sward structure also changed after each grazing cycle, reducing the pre‐grazing leaf/stem ratio. However, reductions in the pre‐grazing leaf lamina mass (up to 37% of the sward herbage mass) and/or in the leaf lamina length (up to 52% of the extended tiller height) did not affect the STIR of grazing heifers, since the animals maintained their bite mass and time per bite. In summary, with a grazing down target of 40% of the pre‐grazing height, reductions in STIR of heifers grazing annual temperate grasses occurred when the pre‐grazing leaf lamina percentage was <37% of the sward herbage mass and/or <52% of the extended tiller height. These results suggested that to avoid STIR reductions during the last grazing cycles, managements to stimulate tillering and delay stem + pseudostem elongation are necessary and should be investigated.
In vitro release and antioxidant activity of Satsuma mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. unshiu) peel flavonoids encapsulated by pectin nanoparticles
Authors: Hu Yan , Zhang Wenlin , Ke Zunli , Li Yan , Zhou Zhiqin
Published: July 2017

The flavonoids of citrus peel extracts (CPE) were encapsulated by pectin nanoparticles (PNs), in an attempt to control the releasing property and improve their antioxidant activity. The physiochemical properties of the obtained PNs were characterised. Flavonoid composition in CPE before and after encapsulation were determined. In vitro release profiles and antioxidant activity of CPE were further evaluated. Results showed the size of spherical PNs obtained was 271.5 ± 5.3 nm. Interestingly, in simulated gastric fluid (SGF), 73% flavonoids were released from the naked CPE after 2 h, while only 28.78% from the CPE‐loaded PNs (E‐PNs). The releasing rate of flavonoids reached 91.47% from E‐PNs after 24 h in the simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). Moreover, DPPH and ABTS assay revealed that E‐PNs showed higher antioxidant activity than blank PNs and free CPE. These data showed that the controlled release of CPE might potentially increase its bioaccessibility and there was a synergistic effect between citrus PNs and CPE on the antioxidant activity.
Empowerment of family caregivers of adults and elderly persons: A concept analysis
Authors: Sakanashi Sayori , Fujita Kimie
Published: July 2017

Aim

This concept analysis defined and described the components of empowerment of family caregivers who care for adults and the elderly.

Methods

Rodgers evolutionary method of concept analysis was used. Data sources included Pub Med, CINAHL, Scopus, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi. Thirty articles published between 1995 and 2015 focusing on the empowerment of family caregivers providing care to adults and the elderly were selected.

Result

The analysis reveals 6 attributes, 5 antecedents, and 5 consequences. In addition, the results reveal structured aspects of family caregivers, care receivers, and other people surrounding them, and their relationships. Empowerment of adults' and elders' family caregivers may be defined as

“positive control of one's mind and body, cultivating a positive attitude, proactively attempting to understand one's role as a caregiver to improve caregiving capabilities, focusing on others as well as oneself, supporting the independence of the care receiver, and creating constructive relationships with other people surrounding them.”

Conclusion

The components of empowerment clarified in this research can be used for the measurement of and interventions aimed at improving empowerment among family caregivers. Furthermore, clarifying the definition of empowerment among family caregivers enables researchers to better distinguish empowerment from similar concepts in the future.
A simple approach to manufacture ceramic coils based on liquid rope coiling effect
Authors: Xing Chen , Yi Meiyu , Wang Guowei , Wang Xin , Guo Fangwei , Zhao Xiaofeng , Xiao Ping
Published: July 2017

A micrometer scale method based on the principle of liquid rope coiling with the assistance of nonsolvent‐induced phase inversion is introduced to fabricate YSZ coils. The YSZ coils with the filament diameter of several hundreds of micrometer exhibit stable spring properties and excellent elongation at failure. With the spring rate in the range from ~2 N/mm to ~21 N/mm and the elongation up to 4.36%, both the two properties can be effectively controlled and tailored since they both strongly depend on the geometric dimensions varied with the process parameters. Besides, the simple method provides an alternative method for the large‐scale production and customization of ceramic coils with diverse applications.
Risks associated with introduction of poeciliids for control of mosquito larvae: first record of the non‐native Gambusia holbrooki in Argentina
Authors: Cabrera M. B. , Bogan S. , Posadas P. , Somoza G. M. , Montoya‐Burgos J. I. , Cardoso Y. P.
Published: July 2017

This study confirms the presence of two species of the non‐native mosquitofish Gambusia in Argentina. The risks that they represent to native biota, their potential dispersal in the region, and their effectiveness in mosquito larvae control are discussed.
Nutritional monitoring of patients post‐bariatric surgery: implications for smartphone applications
Authors: Elvin‐Walsh L. , Ferguson M. , Collins P. F.
Published: July 2017

Background

Optimal results from bariatric surgery are contingent on patient commitment to dietary and lifestyle changes and follow‐up care. The present study aimed to investigate the attitudes and use of mobile health (mHealth) smartphone applications (apps) as a potential tool for maintaining connectivity between dietitians and patients post‐bariatric surgery.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was developed and distributed to a purposeful sample of bariatric dietitians and bariatric patients in Australia. The survey questions explored technology penetration (smartphone and app use), communication preferences, nutrition monitoring methods, professional relationship expectations and reasons for loss to follow‐up.

Results

Survey completion rate was 85% (n = 50/59) for dietitians and 80% (n = 39/49) for patients. Smartphone ownership was 98% and 95% for dietitians and patients, respectively. Common reasons given for losing patients to follow‐up suggest that a traditional in‐clinic practice setting could be a barrier for some. Most dietitians (n = 48; 91%) prefer to see patients face‐to‐face in their clinic, whereas patient preferences extended to e‐mail and mobile messaging. Sixty‐eight percent of bariatric patients were receptive to two‐way communication with dietitians via an app between clinic visits. Both cohorts recognised the potential for emerging technologies to be used in practice, although there was no single routinely recommended mHealth app.

Conclusions

The present study provides the first insight into the use of mobile devices and apps by post‐bariatric patients and the dietitians who support them. A mixture of traditional methods and smartphone technology is desirable to both dietitians and patients. The utility and effectiveness of such technologies should be confirmed in future intervention studies.
Significance of pathological examination of the placenta, with a focus on intrauterine infection and fetal growth restriction
Authors: Nakayama Masahiro
Published: July 2017

Chorioamnionitis (CAM) is associated with abortion, premature labor and neonatal disorders. In this condition, precise pathological diagnosis of the placenta is very important. Besides histological examination, macroscopic examination of the placenta is indispensable. Diagnostic points and complications of CAM are emphasized in this paper. Blanc's classification (revised by Nakayama) is introduced for the accurate determination of CAM stage. Principles of classification based on the causes of fetal growth restriction (FGR) (mainly resulting from placental pathology) are also described. Children born with FGR have high disease‐related morbidity. In these cases, placental examination can be a useful prognostic tool. Placental pathology is associated not only with the underlying cause of FGR, but also with infant prognosis.
Who Loses when Prices are Negotiated? An Analysis of the New Car Market
Authors: Chandra Ambarish , Gulati Sumeet , Sallee James M.
Published: July 2017

We establish that there are large and persistent differences in final transaction prices for identical new cars, and that demographic characteristics explain at least 20% of the observed variation. Older consumers perform progressively worse in negotiations, and the age premium is greater for women than for men. Our results suggest that the complex nature of vehicle transactions leads to price dispersion in this market, and that the worst performing groups—older women—have the lowest rates of market participation. We conjecture that the results are driven by the sharp increases in women's education and labor force participation in recent decades.
Surgical specimen handover from the operating theatre to laboratory—Can we improve patient safety by learning from aviation and other high‐risk organisations?
Authors: Brennan Peter A. , Brands Marieke T. , Caldwell Lucy , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Turley Nic , Foley Susie , Rahimi Siavash
Published: July 2017

Essential communication between healthcare staff is considered one of the key requirements for both safety and quality care when patients are handed over from one clinical area to other. This is particularly important in environments such as the operating theatre and intensive care where mistakes can be devastating. Health care has learned from other high‐risk organisations (HRO) such as aviation where the use of checklists and human factors awareness has virtually eliminated human error and mistakes. To our knowledge, little has been published around ways to improve pathology specimen handover following surgery, with pathology request forms often conveying the bare minimum of information to assist the laboratory staff. Furthermore, the request form might not warn staff about potential hazards. In this article, we provide a brief summary of the factors involved in human error and introduce a novel checklist that can be readily completed at the same time as the routine pathology request form. This additional measure enhances safety, can help to reduce processing and mislabelling errors and provides essential information in a structured way assisting both laboratory staff and pathologists when handling head and neck surgical specimens.
Attitudes, Norms, and the Effect of Social Connectedness on Adolescent Sexual Risk Intention
Authors: Cederbaum Julie A. , Rodriguez Aubrey J. , Sullivan Kathrine , Gray Kandice
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Risky sexual behaviors put adolescents at increased risk of adverse outcomes. Parents, school‐based adults, and peers play important roles in influencing these sex intentions.

METHODS

This work explored the influence of parent‐child sex communication on adolescent attitudes, perceived norms, and intentions to have sex, including the moderating role of social support from school‐based adults, in a sample of 21,731 adolescents in California.

RESULTS

Although increased parent‐child sex communication was associated with intentions to have sex, it also exhibited protective effects, increasing abstinence attitudes among youth that led to decreased intention directly and via support from school‐based adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Although many factors influencing sexual behaviors are largely intrapersonal, these findings indicate the importance of an ecological approach to reducing adolescent sexual risk behaviors through engagement of parents and increased school connectedness.
SRSD in Writing and Professional Development for Teachers: Practice and Promise for Elementary and Middle School Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Gillespie Rouse Amy , Kiuhara Sharlene A.
Published: July 2017

In this article, we outline common challenges students with LD have with writing and then provide an overview of the evidence‐based Self‐Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) instructional model in writing. Next, we provide detailed descriptions of SRSD instruction for students with LD in elementary and middle school classrooms, noting important considerations when planning for and implementing SRSD in these grades. We then address an emerging area of research, practice‐based professional development (PBPD) for SRSD. After providing descriptions of PBPD for SRSD, we summarize PBPD for SRSD studies and argue for continued research in this area. We provide our readers with rich descriptions of PBPD for SRSD, highlighting its promise for students with LD and their teachers.
Combined myocardial deformation to predict cardiac resynchronization therapy response in nonischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Yang Ning , Liang Zhao‐Guang , Wang Zhao‐Jun , Liu Hui , Chi Chao , Tian Yan‐Feng , Qi Shu‐Han , Wang Bi‐Yu , Han Wei
Published: July 2017

Background

20–30% of patients do not benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) when the established selection criteria were applied. We hypothesized that a combined assessment of mechanical dyssynchrony, myocardial deformation, and diastolic function would identify patients who would benefit most from CRT.

Method

In 36 CRT patients, clinical evaluation and echocardiography were performed before and after CRT. Patients were classified into three subgroups according to their amount of response: echocardiographic responders, clinical responders, and nonresponders. Radial dyssynchrony and left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal, radial, and circumferential peak strain was assessed by speckle‐tracking image. Diastolic function was quantified by conventional echocardiography.

Result

In addition to left bundle branch block, nonspecific intraventricular conduction disturbance with intraventricular dyssynchrony could also improve LV remodeling. Echocardiographic responders had better global longitudinal strain, global circumferential peak strain, and global radial strain at baseline which significantly increased at 12‐month follow‐up. An improvement in estimates of LV filling pressure and a decrease in mitral regurgitation and left atrial dimensions were observed only in echocardiographic responders to CRT. Patients with clinical but without echocardiographic response showed a significant improvement in atrioventricular (AV) synchrony and a nonsignificant improvement in other parameters. The nonresponder group did not improve the AV and intraventricular dyssynchrony. CRT could not improve restrictive filling pattern with normal filling time.

Overall, those patients with AV and intraventricular dyssynchrony and those with best contractile function and short diastolic filling time of restrictive filling pattern at baseline demonstrated the greatest benefit from CRT.

Conclusions

Mechanical dyssynchrony, contractile function, and filling pattern are important determinants of the benefits in CRT.
Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity in serum, follicular fluid and seminal plasma of sheep
Authors: Pradieé J , de Campos FT , Rincon JAA , Collares L , Goularte K , Silveira PAS , Pegoraro LMC , Schneider A
Published: July 2017

Contents

This work aimed to describe the activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) in serum, follicular fluid and seminal plasma of sheep. Average serum PON1 activity was 286.8 ± 96.2 U/ml in females and 237.6 ± 18.9 U/ml in males. There was a positive correlation between PON1 activity in serum and follicular fluid in females, being twice higher in serum than in follicular fluid (148.8 ± 15.7 U/ml). PON1 activity in males’ serum was 10‐fold higher than in seminal plasma (21.18 ± 14.2 U/ml), and there was no correlation between PON1 activity in both compartments. Finally, this work suggests that PON1 activity of in sheep is higher compared to other mammalian species, and there is an association between PON1 in serum and follicular fluid only.
Phenotyping asthma: More complex than just age
Authors: Athanazio Rodrigo , Cukier Alberto
Published: July 2017

See related Article
Discovery of a novel HLA‐B*07 variant, HLA‐B*07:294, in a Chinese individual
Authors: Liu B. , Lv J. , Ma Z.
Published: July 2017

The novel HLA‐B*07:294 allele differs from the closest matching allele, HLA‐B*07:02:01 by 1 nucleotide substitution.
The Views of Class Teachers on Acquisition of Entrepreneurship Ability
Authors: Aladağ Soner
Published: July 2017

Aim of this study is to determine the views of class teachers on the acquisition of entrepreneurship abilities. With being a qualitative research, adopted approach is phenomenology. Study group was determined by a suitable sampling method. The study group included eight classroom teachers working in primary schools in Aydın. The data of the study were collected using a semi-structured interview technique based on qualitative research. Content analysis method was used in the analysis of the data. At the end of the study, four main themes were reached. These themes; entrepreneurship abilities in teaching programs, methods and techniques in transferring entrepreneurship abilities, difficulties in transferring entrepreneurship abilities, and suggestions for transferring entrepreneurship abilities. All of the class teachers who participated in the study have the opinion that entrepreneurship abilities must be included in the curriculum. Class teachers who expressed their views on the adequacy of teaching programs in terms of entrepreneurship abilities found their teaching programs inadequate. Teachers who participated in the study stated that they use the drama method most in their entrepreneurship abilities. Class teachers explained difficulties they encounter with problems with the program, student, parent, and school conditions. One of the main difficulties faced by teachers in the transfer of abilities is program-related problems. With the light of the data obtained, class teachers load the problems they experience into factors outside of themselves. They do not evaluate themselves in terms of desire, knowledge and skill.