bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Cultural Validation of the Turkish Version of the Decent Work Scale
Authors: Işık Erkan , Kozan Saliha , Işık Ayşe Negiş
Published: March 2018

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Decent Work Scale (DWS), a recently developed measure that assesses the psychological experience of the quality of one’s work life. The proposed five-factor structure was verified with a sample of 326 Turkish working adults. Consistent with previous research, a five-factor bifactor model showed best fit to the data. The results of multigroup confirmatory factor analysis showed that the structure of the instrument was invariant across gender, income, and social class groups. Convergent and discriminant validity were supported by positive correlations with person–organization fit, job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and work meaning and by negative correlations with withdrawal intentions. Evidence of predictive validity was obtained by regressing the five subscales on four outcome measures. These findings suggest that the Turkish version of the DWS can be used for assessing decent work among Turkish working adults and cross-cultural psychological research.
Vibration bounding of uncertain thin beams by using an extreme value model based on statistical moments
Authors: Seçgin Abdullah , Kara Murat
Published: March 2018

The paper introduces an extreme value model based on statistical moments to predict modal and vibration response bounds for stochastic structures. The approach is applied to a thin beam having two input uncertain parameters: elasticity modulus and specific volume (inverse of the mass density). The input parameters are controllably generated with random shifted normal distributions that have positive statistics. Then the first two statistical moments, mean and standard deviation of natural frequency, and bending vibration displacement are predicted by solving stochastic differential equation of bending vibration of thin beams. Here, the differential equation is solved by utilizing a powerful numerical technique, discrete singular convolution. The accuracies of the discrete singular convolution method and the statistical moment approach are separately ensured with analytical comparisons and experimental and numerical Monte Carlo simulations. These statistical moments are then processed by an extreme value model to predict uncertainty bounds for modal and vibration displacement responses. Predicted bounds are compared with random responses obtained by numerical Monte Carlo simulations. The proposed approach estimates very accurate results with less computation memory and time compared to Monte Carlo solutions. Therefore, the approach proves its efficiency in the use of uncertainty propagation problems governed by partial differential equations.
Constructions of Battered Asian Indian Marriage Migrants: The Narratives of Domestic Violence Advocates
Authors: Kapur Sonia , Zajicek Anna
Published: March 2018

How are the images of abused South Asian marriage migrants shaped by domestic violence advocates? We explore the social constructions of battered Asian Indian marriage migrants in the victim advocates’ narratives. First, we find the narratives both reproduce and challenge the dominant stereotypes, utilizing some individualistic typifications while constructing these images with an understanding of the broader context of battered South Asian women’s experiences. Second, depending on the issue (e.g., economic dependence or religion), the advocates paint either a multidimensional or a one-dimensional picture of their clients. We emphasize the need for further intersectional studies of the images of abused immigrants constructed by victim advocates.
“Bitch, You Got What You Deserved!”: Violation and Violence in Sex Buyer Reviews of Legal Brothels
Authors: Jovanovski Natalie , Tyler Meagan
Published: March 2018

In this article, we use feminist critical discourse analysis to examine online brothel reviews (148 reviews and 2,424 reply posts) of sex buyers in the context of debates surrounding harm minimization. Our findings show that sex buyers actively construct and normalize narratives of sexual violation and violence against women in licensed brothels through their language, referencing objectification, unsafe sex practices, and, in more extreme cases, rape to create a sense of community with other punters. Through this analysis, we challenge existing assumptions about harm minimization in systems of prostitution, which are legalized or fully decriminalized.
Association of vitamin D receptor gene TaqI, FokI and ApaI variants with arteriovenous fistula failure in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Huzmeli Can , Bagci Gokhan , Candan Ferhan , Bagci Binnur , Akkaya Lale , Kayatas Mansur
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

We investigated the influence of the vitamin D receptor gene TaqI (rs731236), ApaI (rs7975232), and FokI (rs2228570) polymorphisms in arteriovenous fistula failure in hemodialysis patients.

Methods:

This study was carried out with 54 patients who experienced two or more fistula failures in the late period after arteriovenous fistula operation and 58 control patients with no history of arteriovenous fistula failure in 3 years or longer. The polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method was used to determine the vitamin D receptor TaqI, FokI, and ApaI polymorphisms.

Results:

For vitamin D receptor gene TaqI and Fok1 polymorphisms, no significant association was found between the two groups ( p > 0.05). However, a statistically significant association was determined for ApaI polymorphism between the two groups ( p = 0.02). In patients, ApaI AA, AC, and CC genotype frequencies were found as 21 (38.9%), 32 (59.3%), and 1 (1.8%), respectively. However, genotype frequencies of AA, AC, and CC in the control group were 29 (50%), 22 (37.9%), and 7 (12.1%), respectively. In all three polymorphisms, no significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of allele frequencies ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Vitamin D receptor ApaI AC genotype may be a possible cardiovascular risk factor for the development of arteriovenous fistula failure.
The incidence of symptomatic upper limb venous thrombosis associated with midline catheter: Prospective observation
Authors: Lisova Katerina , Hromadkova Jaroslava , Pavelková Katerina , Zauška Vladimir , Havlin Jan , Charvat Jiri
Published: March 2018

Aim:

The evaluation of the incidence of symptomatic upper limb venous thrombosis (ULVT) associated with midline catheters in patients admitted to the hospital.

Methods:

The frequency of symptomatic ULVT diagnosed in a group of patients with midline catheters confirmed by sonographic examination in hospitalised patients at Faculty Hospital over the period of 1 year.

Results:

Four hundred thirty-nine midline catheters were inserted in 430 patients (250 women and 180 men) during year 2015. Nine patients had two midline catheters. The average age of the patient was 68 years (range: 19–96 years). The median time of midline catheter introduction into a vein was 10 days (range: 1–112 days). Symptomatic thrombosis was diagnosed in 20 patients (4.5%), 3.3/1000 catheter days. It was associated with gender (male) and midline insertion in the cephalic vein.

Conclusion:

The risk of upper limb symptomatic thrombosis associated with midline catheters during a stay in the hospital should be taken into consideration when indicating optimal venous access.
Dialysis arteriovenous access monitoring and surveillance according to the 2017 Spanish Guidelines
Authors: Roca-Tey Ramon , Ibeas José , Moreno Teresa , Gruss Enrique , Merino José Luis , Vallespín Joaquín , Hernán David , Arribas Patricia
Published: March 2018

The Spanish Multidisciplinary Group on Vascular Access (GEMAV), which includes experts from the five scientific societies involved (nephrology (S.E.N.), vascular surgery (SEACV), interventional radiology (SERAM-SERVEI), infectious diseases (SEIMC), and nephrology nursing (SEDEN)), along with the methodological support of the Iberoamerican Cochrane Centre, has developed the Spanish Clinical Guidelines on Vascular Access for Hemodialysis. This article summarizes the main issues from the guideline’s chapter entitled “Monitoring and surveillance of arteriovenous access.” We will analyze the current evidence on conflicting topics such as the value of the flow-based screening methods for the arteriovenous access surveillance or the role of Doppler ultrasound as the imaging exploration to confirm suspected stenosis. In addition, the concept of significant stenosis and the criteria to perform the elective intervention for stenosis were reviewed. The adoption of these guidelines will hopefully translate into a reduced risk of thrombosis and increased patency rates for both arteriovenous fistulas and grafts.
Resection of puncture site necrosis over an arteriovenous fistula: Endoclamp use for preservation of cannulation sites
Authors: Mallios Alexandros , Jennings William , Boura Benoit , Costanzo Alessandro , Combes Myriam
Published: March 2018

Skin necrosis overlying an arteriovenous fistula at the cannulation site is a common and potentially life-threatening problem, often associated with underlying aneurysm formation. Arteriovenous fistula-skin necrosis generally requires resection of surrounding skin margins and the underlying aneurysmal vessel wall, allowing repair with healthy tissue of the arteriovenous fistula in addition to closure of soft tissue and skin. In patients with insufficient fistula length, salvage of these arteriovenous fistulas may result in difficult or insurmountable cannulation issues leading to attempts at one-needle cannulation dialysis or, most often, catheter placement. Pre-existing stents or extensive calcification may add to the technical challenge of gaining proximal and/or distal control. We describe our technique for dealing with such arteriovenous fistula-skin necrosis lesions utilizing endo-occlusion with an angioplasty balloon for vascular control, allowing a limited incision and tissue resection with preservation of arteriovenous fistula cannulation length.
Decrease of muscle strength in vascular access hand due to silent ischaemia
Authors: Kmentova Tereza , Valerianova Anna , Kovarova Lucie , Lachmanova Jana , Hladinova Zuzana , Malik Jan
Published: March 2018

Background:

Creation of vascular access leads to considerable local haemodynamic changes with decreased hand perfusion. Distal limb tissues then represent a model of hand ischaemia effect on muscles. The aim of our study was to investigate how the presence of vascular access influences the hand muscle strength in end-stage renal disease patients.

Methods:

We included 52 chronically haemodialysed patients with upper limb access without clinical signs of hand ischaemia. Muscle strength was evaluated by dynamometry. Finger pressure was measured on the second and fourth fingers and averaged for further analysis. Thenar tissue oxygenation (rSO2) was analysed using near-infrared spectroscopy. All examinations were performed in both the hands. Basic laboratory analysis was added. Data were processed with unpaired t-test and correlation analysis.

Results:

Hands with dialysis access had lower values of handgrip strength (54.2 ± 29.1 lbs vs 48.6 ± 23.4 lbs, p = 0.0006), systolic finger pressure (127.1 ± 32.0 mmHg vs 101.4 ± 31.6 mmHg, p < 10−8) and of thenar rSO2 (45.8% ± 12.9% vs 42.5% ± 13.3%, p = 0.002). Muscle strength (handgrip) was directly related to the thenar oxygenation ( r = 0.36; p = 0.014) and to the finger systolic pressure ( r = 0.38; p = 0.007) on the access extremity. On the extremity without dialysis access, handgrip strength was inversely related to patient’s age ( r = −0.41, p = 0.003), dialysis vintage ( r = −0.32, p = 0.02) and red cell distribution width ( r = −0.37, p = 0.01).

Conclusion:

The presence of dialysis access leads to the decrease of finger pressure, oxygenation, and also muscle strength even in the absence of clinically overt hand ischaemia. All these parameters are interrelated. This study underlines the consequences of inadequate muscle perfusion.
Technical Validation of a Reverse-Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction In Vitro Diagnostic Test for the Determination of MiR-31-3p Expression Levels in Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Tumor Specimens
Authors: Ramon Lucas , David Catherine , Fontaine Karine , Lallet Elodie , Marcaillou Charles , Martin-Lannerée Séverine , Decaulne Virginie , Vazart Céline , Gélibert Anne-Héloise , Abdelali Raouf Ben , Costa Jean-Marc , Rousseau Francis , Thiébaut Raphaële , Yost Larry , Gaston-Mathé Yann
Published: March 2018

MiR-31-3p expression has been shown to be a predictive biomarker for response to anti-epithelial growth factor receptor therapy in patients with RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). To aid in the quantification of miR-31-3p expression in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) primary tumor samples from patients with mCRC, a reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay was developed and validated. Assay development included the identification of a microRNA reference standard and the determination of an appropriate relative quantification cutoff for differentiating low versus high miR-31-3p expression. Sample specimens for the validation studies included both FFPE slides and shavings. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) efficiency and linearity, analytical sensitivity and specificity, assay robustness, reproducibility, and accuracy were demonstrated across a number of test conditions and differing quantitative PCR platforms. The data from this study provide evidence as to the feasibility of quantifying the expression of miR-31-3p from FFPE tumor tissue using a standardized RT-qPCR assay.
On the fungibility of economic power: China’s economic rise and the East Asian security order
Authors: Ross Robert S.
Published: March 2018

China is now second only to the US as a world economic power. Its economic rise has challenged US ability to fundamentally shape the world trade order. However, the importance of the rise of the Chinese economy for international security affairs is less clear. The key analytical issue for international politics and for an understanding of the sources of power is whether economic power is fungible in international security affairs, whether it can independently determine the strategic alignments of small states. This is also the key question in assessing the implications of China’s economic rise for the East Asian security order. The political-economy literature argues that trade dependence can lead small states to realign within great power politics, regardless of the military balance. However, poor case selection challenges this prior literature. By using contemporary East Asia as a source of multiple bilateral case studies, I argue that the economic dependence of a small state on a great economic power is insufficient to influence independently small state strategic alignment preferences and that China’s rising economic power is not fungible in East Asian security affairs.
Depressive adolescents at risk of social exclusion: The potentials of social-emotional learning in schools
Authors: Reicher Hannelore , Matischek-Jauk Marlies
Published: March 2018

Depressive adolescents are a challenging and vulnerable group in schools. Specific developmental features such as irritability and comorbid behavioural disorders complicate the recognition of their emotional problems for peers, teachers and even parents. Our research shows that teachers tend to overlook depressive feelings in adolescents; however, even peers are not able to recognize depressive feelings appropriately. Emotional problems can result in underachievement, the inability to learn and problems building satisfactory interpersonal relationships. Our review of research findings detects a complex interplay between social dynamics of exclusion and depression. Educational intervention and prevention efforts with respect to evidence-based social-emotional learning (SEL) programmes are summarized. It can be concluded that the implementation of systematic SEL concepts in schools has the potential to recognize depression-related problems early, to prevent exclusion and to reduce the burden of depressive disorders.
How did you change my view? A corpus-based study of concessions’ argumentative role
Authors: Musi Elena
Published: March 2018

In everyday communicative arenas, we engage in critical discussions to persuade others to change their views about issues of personal as well as public interest. Discourse analysts have deemed concessions as privileged strategies to manage disagreement and reach consensus. However, a coherent and comprehensive account of the argumentative functions played by different concessive relations is lacking: do concessions always bear an argumentative role? By which semantic and pragmatic properties? What type of argumentative moves do they instantiate? To answer these questions, we propose a corpus-based study of lexical markers of concessions in the subreddit Changemyview. Drawing from a multilevel semantic and pragmatic annotation, polysemous markers with contrast are disambiguated, and an empirically motivated typology of concessive relations is proposed. The results of the analysis highlight two types of concessions that are specialized in introducing and/or preventing counterarguments.
Self-sewn identity: How female home sewers use garment sewing to control self-presentation
Authors: Martindale Addie , McKinney Ellen
Published: March 2018

Garment sewing was once a necessity for women to present themselves and their families in a socially acceptable manner. Despite societal and economics changes, as well as, an abundance of readily available cheap clothing, there is a resurging interest in personal garment sewing by women. This qualitative study explored the control gained by women who sew their own clothing finding that among the women interviewed personal garment sewing allowed them control over their clothing’s style, fit, and quality, which was not found through purchasing ready-to-wear clothes. Garment sewing permitted these women to present themselves in clothing that they felt more accurately represented their personality and taste. These findings provide insights into the usage of garment sewing by women to control their appearance which allowed them more authority over their clothing selection than their non-sewing peers. Validation of the women’s time spent sewing was established as the findings postulate noteworthy benefits that include increased satisfaction with both their appearance and their presentation of self to others. The findings are explained using theories related to self-presentation and identity.
Communicating a diagnosis of dementia: A systematic mixed studies review of attitudes and practices of health practitioners
Authors: Low Lee-Fay , McGrath Margaret , Swaffer Kate , Brodaty Henry
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study is to systematically review practitioners’ practices and attitudes in regards to communicating a diagnosis of dementia. A systematic search was conducted of Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed for English language original empirical papers. A sequential explanatory mixed studies analysis approach was used. Twenty-five quantitative descriptive, two intervention, six mixed methods descriptive and 21 qualitative studies were included. Pooled analysis showed that 34% of GPs and 48% of specialists usually/routinely tell the person with dementia their diagnosis, and 89% of GPs and 97% specialists usually/routinely tell the family the diagnosis. Euphemistic terms such as ‘memory problems’ are more often used to describe dementia than medical terms. Practitioners’ decision to diagnose and communicate the diagnosis of dementia are influenced by (a) their own beliefs regarding dementia and treatment efficacy and their confidence in diagnosis and communication; (b) patient circumstances including level of awareness, level of severity and family support; (c) the health and social care system including access to specialist and diagnostic services, reimbursement for diagnosis/management and availability of services and (d) cultural norms in relation to dementia including stigma, labels, and common clinical practice. The diagnosis and communication of diagnosis of dementia are intertwined processes and should be concurrently addressed in interventions. Multicomponent approaches to address these practices could include guideline development, practitioner education, anti-stigma public health campaigns, offering post-diagnosis treatments and support and sufficient reimbursement for practitioners for time spent managing dementia.
Ecocritical contestations with neoliberalism: Teaching to (un)learn “normalcy”
Authors: Lupinacci John , Happel-Parkins Alison , Ward Lupinacci Mary
Published: March 2018

This article seeks to address often overlooked cultural assumptions embedded within neoliberalism; specifically, the researchers explore what ecofeminist Val Plumwood describes as centric thinking, leading to a logic of domination. The authors argue that social justice educators and activists who are committed to critiquing neoliberalism must take into consideration the ways in which a logic of domination undergirds the unjust and destructive social and economic ideologies and policies that constitute neoliberalism. The authors examine and share pedagogical moments from experiences in teacher education seeking to: (a) challenge and disrupt dualistic thinking; (b) interrupt perceptions of hegemonic normalcy—referring to a socio-cultural process by which actions, behaviors, and diverse ways of interpreting the world are perceived by dominant society as “fitting in” and being socially acceptable; and, (c) contest false notions of independence—the degree to which an individual is perceived as able to meet their social and economic responsibilities on their own—as measures of success in schools and society. The authors detail how they work with(in) teacher education programs to introduce how an ecocritical approach, drawing from ecofeminist frameworks, identifies and examines the impacts of neoliberal policies and practices dominated by “free” market ideology. The authors assert that educators, especially teacher educators, can challenge harmful discourses that support the problematic neoliberal understandings about independence that inform Western cultural norms and assumptions. Concluding, the authors share a conceptualization for (un)learning the exploitation inextricable from the policies and practices of neoliberalism.
In Vitro Quantification of Gutter Formation and Chimney Graft Compression in Chimney EVAR Stent-Graft Configurations Using Electrocardiography-Gated Computed Tomography
Authors: Overeem Simon P. , Donselaar Esmé J. , Boersen Jorrit T. , Groot Jebbink Erik , Slump Cornelis H. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Reijnen Michel M. P. J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To assess the dynamic behavior of chimney grafts during the cardiac cycle. Methods: Three chimney endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) stent-graft configurations (Endurant and Advanta V12, Endurant and Viabahn, and Endurant and BeGraft) were placed in silicone aneurysm models and subjected to physiologic flow. Electrocardiography (ECG)-gated contrast-enhanced computed tomography was used to visualize geometric changes during the cardiac cycle. Endograft and chimney graft surface, gutter volume, chimney graft angulation over the center lumen line, and the D-ratio (the ratio between the lengths of the major and minor axes) were independently assessed by 2 observers at 10 time points in the cardiac cycle. Results: Both gutter volumes and chimney graft geometry changed significantly during the cardiac cycle in all 3 configurations (p<0.001). Gutters and endoleaks were observed in all configurations. The largest gutter volume (232.8 mm3) and change in volume (20.7 mm3) between systole and diastole were observed in the Endurant-Advanta configuration. These values were 2.7- and 3.0-fold higher, respectively, compared to the Endurant-Viabahn configuration and 1.7- and 1.6-fold higher as observed in the Endurant-BeGraft configuration. The Endurant-Viabahn configuration had the highest D-ratio (right, 1.26–1.35; left, 1.33–1.48), while the Endurant-BeGraft configuration had the lowest (right, 1.11–1.17; left, 1.08–1.15). Assessment of the interobserver variability showed a high correlation (intraclass correlation >0.935) between measurements. Conclusion: Gutter volumes and stent compression are dynamic phenomena that reshape during the cardiac cycle. Compelling differences were observed during the cardiac cycle in all configurations, with the self-expanding (Endurant–Viabahn) chimney EVAR configurations having smaller gutters and less variation in gutter volume during the cardiac cycle yet more stent compression without affecting the chimney graft surface.
Optimization of 3D woven preform for improved mechanical performance
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Hamdani Syed Talha Ali , Nawab Yasir , Asghar Muhammad Ayub , Umair Muhammad , Shaker Khubab
Published: March 2018

For structural design applications, through-thickness characteristics of reinforcement played a vital role, which is why 3D woven preforms are recommended for such applications. These characteristics are mainly dependent on the fiber and yarn positioning in reinforcement. Although research has been conducted for characterizing woven composites, special attention has not been made on weave pattern parameter which directly affects the mechanical performance of composites. In this research work, 3D orthogonal layer to layer and through thickness woven structures with different interlocking patterns have been thoroughly studied for their mechanical properties, thickness, air permeability and areal density. Natural fibers when used with biodegradable matrix find use in structural, as well as low to medium impact applications for automobiles. Jute yarn was used to produce four-layered 3D woven structures, as synthetic fibers will not give a biodegradable composite part. The focus of this study is to optimize weave pattern, which is robust in design, degradable preforms and easy to reproduce. The main objective of this research focused on the effectiveness of weaving patterns on physical and mechanical properties as well as to optimize the weave pattern for optimum performance. Grey relational analysis was used for the optimization of the robust weave pattern. The results showed that hybrid structures can be useful for improving the properties of the orthogonal layer to layer and through thickness woven structures. It was also noted that weft-way 3D woven structures can provide comparable mechanical properties with warp-way 3D woven structures.
Micromechanical modelling of the compression strength of three-dimensional integrated woven sandwich composites
Authors: Mirdehghan Abolfazl , Nosraty Hooshang , Shokrieh Mahmood M , Ghasemi Roohallah , Akhbari Mehdi
Published: March 2018

This paper is concerned with a theoretical and experimental verification of a micromechanical model of newly developed sandwich panels denoted as 3D integrated woven sandwich composite panels. The integrated hollow core was made of a pile of 3D bars with a special configuration. Integrated woven sandwich composite panels consist of two fabric faces which were interwoven by pile fibers and therefore a very high skin core debonding resistance was obtained. With the objective of qualifying the mechanical properties of these structures, fairly extensive experimental research was carried out by investigators. Although some numerical methods have been developed to predict the mechanical behaviors of these structures, there are less analytical models in this area. Due to the computational difficulties and the time consuming nature of the finite element method, in the present study, a new micromechanics analytical model has been suggested for predicting the compressive strength of integrated woven sandwich composites. In order to evaluate the proposed model, fabricated samples with different pile heights and pile distribution densities were subjected to flatwise compression tests. The results show that compressive properties of integrated woven sandwich composite panels are decreased with the increase of core heights and increased greatly with that of the pile density. Furthermore, the micromechanics model reasonably predicted the compression strength, and there is a good agreement between the experimental data and model predictions.
Semantic Typicality Effects in Primary Progressive Aphasia
Authors: Riley Ellyn A. , Barbieri Elena , Weintraub Sandra , Mesulam M. Marsel , Thompson Cynthia K.
Published: March 2018

Prototypical items within a semantic category are processed faster than atypical items within the same category. This typicality effect reflects normal representation and processing of semantic categories and when absent may be reflective of lexical–semantic deficits. We examined typicality effects in individuals with semantic and nonsemantic variants of primary progressive aphasia (PPA; semantic—PPA-S, agrammatic—PPA-G), a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by specific decline in language function, and age-matched controls. Using a semantic category verification task, where participants were asked to decide whether visual or auditory words (category typical, atypical, or nonmembers) belonged within a specified superordinate category, we found a typicality effect (ie, faster response times for typical vs atypical items) for all participant groups. However, participants with more severe PPA-S did not show a typicality effect in either modality. Findings may reflect increased intracategory semantic blurring as the disease progresses and semantic impairment becomes more severe.
Internal Structure and Item Characteristics of the Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening in Spanish for Preschool
Authors: Meyer J. Patrick , Invernizzi Marcia A. , Ford Karen L.
Published: March 2018

We used multidimensional item response theory to test the internal structure of the Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening in Spanish for Preschool and test for item parameter drift. The measure is aligned with the simple view of reading, which defines reading as consisting of two equally important dimensions: decoding and language comprehension. It involves 134 items grouped into nine different tasks. We administered a pilot version of the measure to 677 students in 2014 and a final version to 968 students in 2015. We did not find evidence that code-related skills and oral language are distinct but correlated dimensions among preschoolers. Rather, a single general dimension of early literacy with task-related specific dimensions fit best. A benefit of our modeling approach is that we can examine the internal structure while also evaluating the difficulty and discrimination of individual items. Results suggest a stable ordering of items within tasks and that some Spanish letters are learned more easily than others.
Application of moving sliding mode control for a DC motor driven four-bar mechanism
Authors: Çakar Orhan , Tanyıldızı Alper Kadir
Published: March 2018

The angular velocity of the input link of a mechanism fluctuates due to the inertia of links and the external forces, although it is generally assumed constant in design. The control of the crank angular velocity of a four-bar mechanism driven by a DC motor by moving sliding mode control is considered in this study. A time-varying slope is proposed based on the error state. The mathematical model of the motor-mechanism system is derived using Eksergian’s equation of motion. First, the state space equations are solved numerically for constant motor voltage to show the velocity fluctuations of the crank. Then both the conventional sliding mode control method and the proposed moving sliding mode control method are applied to obviate this unwanted velocity fluctuation. The method is verified by numerical simulations as well as experimental studies. The results of both the sliding mode control and the moving sliding mode control methods are compared. It is shown that a moving sliding surface in the sliding mode control increases the robustness of conventional sliding mode control by decreasing the reaching time. Also, the performance of the moving sliding mode control against parametric variations and external disturbances is experimentally investigated by adding a mass and applying an unexpected force on one of the links of the mechanism.
Nonlinear dynamic investigations on rolling element bearings: A review
Authors: Sharma Aditya , Upadhyay Nitin , Kankar Pavan Kumar , Amarnath Muniyappa
Published: March 2018

Rolling element bearings are one of the most precarious components and play an important role in the effective operation of rotating machinery. Bearings are one of the foremost sources of nonlinearity in rotating machineries which significantly affect the behavior of the system. The main sources of nonlinearity are radial internal clearance, unbalanced force, bearing preload, stiffness, damping, number of rolling element, and so on. Surface defects such as localized and distributed defects are also accountable for the nonlinear behavior of the system. A large number of studies and methodologies have been proposed in the last two decades to understand the nonlinear dynamic behavior of rolling element bearings considering various bearing parameters and surface defects. In this work, the authors have presented a review of different theoretical models and experimental works proposed for the analysis of the nonlinear behavior of rotating systems. This review article first quotes various techniques which have been explored for the nonlinearity analysis in rolling contact elements such as rotor-bearing system and gears. Some of the important gaps are highlighted in this work which can be considered for future studies.
A deep neural network to assess spontaneous pain from mouse facial expressions
Authors: Tuttle Alexander H , Molinaro Mark J , Jethwa Jasmine F , Sotocinal Susana G , Prieto Juan C , Styner Martin A , Mogil Jeffrey S , Zylka Mark J
Published: March 2018

Grimace scales quantify characteristic facial expressions associated with spontaneous pain in rodents and other mammals. However, these scales have not been widely adopted largely because of the time and effort required for highly trained humans to manually score the images. Convoluted neural networks were recently developed that distinguish individual humans and objects in images. Here, we trained one of these networks, the InceptionV3 convolutional neural net, with a large set of human-scored mouse images. Output consists of a binary pain/no-pain assessment and a confidence score. Our automated Mouse Grimace Scale integrates these two outputs and is highly accurate (94%) at assessing the presence of pain in mice across different experimental assays. In addition, we used a novel set of “pain” and “no pain” images to show that automated Mouse Grimace Scale scores are highly correlated with human scores (Pearson’s r = 0.75). Moreover, the automated Mouse Grimace Scale classified a greater proportion of images as “pain” following laparotomy surgery when compared to animals receiving a sham surgery or a post-surgical analgesic. Together, these findings suggest that the automated Mouse Grimace Scale can eliminate the need for tedious human scoring of images and provide an objective and rapid way to quantify spontaneous pain and pain relief in mice.
The Chaste Parricide: Murder, Femininity and the Subversion of Authority in the Reception of the First Performance of Shelley’s The Cenci, 1886
Authors: Michael-Berger Lee
Published: March 2018

The story of The Cenci’s first production is intriguing, since the play, based on the true story of a sixteenth-century Roman family and revolving around the theme of parricide, was published in 1819 but was denied a licence for many years. The Shelley Society finally presented it in 1886, although it was vetoed by the Lord Chamberlain, and to avoid censorship it had to be proclaimed as a private event. This article examines the political and social context of the production, especially the reception of actress’s Alma Murray’s rendition of Beatrice, the parricide, thus probing the ways in which The Cenci question was reframed, and placed in the public sphere, despite censorship. The staging of the play became the site of a political debate and the performance – an act of defiance against institutionalised power, but also an act of defiance against the alleged tyranny of mass culture.
Free functioning gracilis transfer for reanimation of elbow and hand in total traumatic brachial plexopathy in children
Authors: Madura Tomas , Doi Kazuteru , Hattori Yasunori , Sakamoto Sotetsu , Shimoe Takashi
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes of the free functioning gracilis transfer in children with traumatic total brachial plexus palsy. We used the free functioning gracilis transfer to reconstruct elbow flexion and prehension in 17 children with a mean age of 13.4 years (range 3–17) who were followed-up over a mean period of 6 years (range 2–16). The transferred gracilis delivered a stable elbow flexion with a useful power, as well as reconstructed active finger motion. In 3–11-year-old patients we noted a tendency towards developing a progressive flexion contracture of the elbow. The limb length discrepancy observed in our patients was not different from the brachial plexus palsy patients treated without the free functioning gracilis transfer. In conclusion, the free functioning gracilis transfer is a reliable reconstructive technique for reanimating upper extremity in children of all ages capable of delivering stable function over a long period of time.

Level of evidence: IV
A Novel Method of Color Appearance Simulation Using Achromatic Point Locus With Lightness Dependence
Authors: Kuriki Ichiro
Published: March 2018

The purpose of the present study is to propose a simple algorithm for color appearance simulation under a color illuminant. Achromatic point is a chromaticity of rays that appear neither red nor green, neither blue nor yellow under a given illuminant condition. Saturation and hue of surface colors are evaluated with respect to the achromatic point of the same lightness, while the achromatic point under a colored illuminant depends on the lightness tested. We previously found that this achromatic point locus can be simply approximated as a line with a parallel offset from the lightness axis of CIE LAB space normalized to daylight. We propose a model that applies shifts in the lightness direction after applying hue/saturation shifts using the cone-response (von Kries) transformation under an iso-lightness constraint, such that achromatic points would be aligned with the lightness axis in the CIE LAB space under daylight normalization. We tested this algorithm, which incorporates evaluation of color appearance in different lightness levels, using #theDress image. Resemblance between our simulation and subjective color-matching results implies that human color vision possibly processes shifts in color and lightness independently, as a previous study reported. Changes in the chromaticity distribution of the images were compared with conventional models, and the proposed model preserved relative color difference better, especially at the lower lightness levels. The better performance in lower lightness levels would be advantageous in displays with wider dynamic range in luminance. This implies that the proposed model is effective in simulating color appearance of images with nonnegligible lightness and color differences.
Tissue Motion Annular Displacement Predicts Mortality/Transplant After the Bidirectional Glenn
Authors: Penk Jamie S. , Zaidi S. Javed H. , Lefaiver Cheryl A. , Muangmingsuk Supitcha , Cui Vivian W. , Roberson David A.
Published: March 2018

Background:

Quantifying right ventricular function in patients with a systemic right ventricle (RV) is difficult but important for prognosis. Tissue motion annular displacement tracks displacement of the tricuspid annulus toward the apex. We evaluated this measure alongside fractional area change (FAC) on patients with single, RV prior to the bidirectional Glenn procedure. We tested both measures for correlation with outcomes.

Methods:

Retrospective measurement of tissue motion annular displacement and FAC was performed on echocardiographic clips obtained prior to the bidirectional Glenn. A chart review included postoperative outcomes and midterm mortality/transplant. Bivariate correlations and Cox proportional hazards models were used for analyses.

Results:

Fifty-one patients with dominant RV underwent the bidirectional Glenn procedure and all had image quality that allowed analysis. The age ranged from 3 to 11 months (median 4 months). Neither tissue motion annular displacement nor FAC correlated with short-term postoperative outcomes. Tissue motion annular displacement was independently predictive of mortality/transplant ( P = .03) in the Cox hazard model. The mean for survivors was 12.4% and for nonsurvivors/transplants was 10.0%. Tissue motion annular displacement intra-observer variability was 2.8% (1.2%-3.5%). Interobserver mean variability was 6.1% (3.3%-8.1%). Fractional area change was not predictive of mortality/transplant.

Conclusion:

Tissue motion annular displacement is an independent predictor of midterm mortality/transplant after the bidirectional Glenn procedure in patients with single, RV, in this study. It may outperform FAC in this regard and has good reproducibility. Tissue motion annular displacement may be a useful measure in identifying high-risk children in this population.
A Randomized Trial Comparing Cardiac Rehabilitation to Standard of Care for Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Opotowsky Alexander R. , Rhodes Jonathan , Landzberg Michael J. , Bhatt Ami B. , Shafer Keri M. , Yeh Doreen DeFaria , Crouter Scott E. , Ubeda Tikkanen Ana
Published: March 2018

Background:

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves exercise capacity and quality of life while reducing mortality in adults with acquired heart disease. Cardiac rehabilitation has not been extensively studied in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods:

We performed a prospective, randomized controlled trial (NCT01822769) of a 12-week clinical CR program compared with standard of care (SOC). Participants were ≥16 years old, had moderate or severe CHD, had O2 saturation ≥92%, and had peak O2 consumption ([Formula: see text]) < 80% predicted. We assessed exercise capacity, physical activity, quality of life, self-reported health status, and other variables at baseline and after 12 weeks. The prespecified primary end point was change in [Formula: see text].

Results:

We analyzed data on 28 participants (aged 41.1 ± 12.1 years, 50% male), 13 randomized to CR and 15 to SOC. [Formula: see text] averaged 16.8 ± 3.8 mL/kg/min, peak work rate = 95 ± 28 W, and median Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) score = 27 (interquartile range: 11-44). Cardiac rehabilitation participants were older (48 ± 9 years vs 36 ± 12 years; P = .01), but there were no significant between-group differences in other variables. There were no adverse events related to CR. [Formula: see text] increased in the CR group compared with SOC (+2.2 mL/kg/min, 95% confidence interval: 0.7-3.7; P = .002, age-adjusted +2.7 mL/kg/min; P = .004); there was a nonsignificant improvement in work rate (+8.1 W; P = .13). Among the 25 participants with baseline MLHFQ > 5, there was a clinically important >5-point improvement in 72.7% and 28.6% of CR and SOC participants, respectively ( P = .047). Cardiac rehabilitation was also associated with improved self-assessment of overall health ( P < .04).

Conclusions:

Cardiac rehabilitation is safe and is associated with improvement in aerobic capacity and self-reported health status compared with SOC in adults with CHD.
What Is History of Psychology? Network Analysis of Journal Citation Reports, 2009-2015
Authors: Burman Jeremy Trevelyan
Published: March 2018

This essay considers the History of Psychology—its interests and boundaries—using the data behind the Journal Impact Factor system. Advice is provided regarding what journals to follow, which broad frames to consider in presenting research findings, and where to publish the resulting studies to reach different audiences. The essay itself has also been written for those with only passing familiarity with its methods. It is therefore not necessary to be an expert in network analysis to engage in “virtual witnessing” while considering methods or results: Everything is clearly explained and carefully illustrated. The further consequence is that those who are new to the History of Psychology as a specialty, distinct from its subject matter, are introduced to the myriad historical perspectives within and related to psychology from the broadest possible perspective. A supplemental set of exemplary readings is also provided, in addition to cited references, drawing from identified sources from beyond the primary journals.
Improvisation in Elementary General Music: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Chandler Michael D.
Published: March 2018

Improvisation is an area of interest to both music education researchers and music educators alike. The purpose of this literature review was to examine extant studies related to improvisation at the elementary level. Selected research included the nature of improvisation, the amount of instructional time and activity type used, the development of improvisation skills with age, and the effect of improvisation on other skill areas. Findings indicated that children chose their own musical and social roles when there was minimal teacher intervention. Most teachers agreed that improvisation was important, although at varying degrees and based on varying levels of experience and ability. Improvisation skills increased with age, particularly when considering rhythmic improvisation and phrase structure, and improvisation was found to increase creativity and divergent thinking while also reducing performance anxiety. Research findings are included from the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Greece, Slovenia, Malaysia, and the United States. The review concludes with implications for practice and recommendations for further research.
Clinical spectrum of pyruvate kinase deficiency: data from the Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency Natural History Study
Authors: Grace Rachael F. , Bianchi Paola , van Beers Eduard J. , Eber Stefan W. , Glader Bertil , Yaish Hassan M. , Despotovic Jenny M. , Rothman Jennifer A. , Sharma Mukta , McNaull Melissa M. , Fermo Elisa , Lezon-Geyda Kimberly , Morton D. Holmes , Neufeld Ellis J. , Chonat Satheesh , Kollmar Nina , Knoll Christine M. , Kuo Kevin , Kwiatkowski Janet L. , Pospíšilová Dagmar , Pastore Yves D. , Thompson Alexis A. , Newburger Peter E. , Ravindranath Yaddanapudi , Wang Winfred C. , Wlodarski Marcin W. , Wang Heng , Holzhauer Susanne , Breakey Vicky R. , Kunz Joachim , Sheth Sujit , Rose Melissa J. , Bradeen Heather A. , Neu Nolan , Guo Dongjing , Al-Sayegh Hasan , London Wendy B. , Gallagher Patrick G. , Zanella Alberto , Barcellini Wilma
Published: March 2018

Key Points

PK deficiency manifests a broad spectrum in anemia severity that moderately improves after splenectomy. Close attention to monitoring for iron overload, gallstones, and other complications is recommended in all patients with PK deficiency.