bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Functional Imaging for Detecting and Assessing the Resectability of Neuroendocrine Liver Metastases
Authors: Ronot Maxime , Clift Ashley K. , Baum Richard P. , Singh Aviral , Kulkarni Harshad R. , Frilling Andrea , Vilgrain Valérie
Published: July 2017

This review evaluates the diagnostic efficacy of different morphological and functional imaging modalities (ultrasound [US], computed tomography [CT], magnetic resonance [MR] imaging, scintigraphy, and positron emission tomography [PET]) in detecting neuroendocrine liver metastases (NELM), assessing vascular and biliary involvement, and the presence of extrahepatic disease. MR imaging is superior for depicting NELM compared to US, CT, and somatostatin receptor scintigraphy. Diffusion-weighted MR imaging is more sensitive for detecting NELM than both T2-weighted and dynamic gadolinium-enhanced MR sequences, and should be systematically performed. Similarly, gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging is more sensitive for detecting liver metastases than conventional extracellular gadolinium chelate-enhanced MR sequences. Its role in detecting NELM remains investigational but appears promising. Somatostatin receptor-targeted PET/CT is a highly effective approach in assessing the resectability of well-differentiated NELM due to very high specificity (and high sensitivity) and its ability to detect small volume extrahepatic disease; this molecular imaging modality is becoming increasingly available in and outside Europe after the recent approval of 6868-DOTATATE in the US. In addition, the information from multiphase, contrast-enhanced CT with 3D reconstruction - obtained concurrently with the information on somatostatin receptor expression of the metastases - is very helpful in planning the extent and type of resection of NELM.
Hyperkalemia After Initiating Renin–Angiotensin System Blockade: The Stockholm Creatinine Measurements (SCREAM) Project
Authors: Bandak Ghassan , Sang Yingying , Gasparini Alessandro , Chang Alex R. , Ballew Shoshana H. , Evans Marie , Arnlov Johan , Lund Lars H. , Inker Lesley A. , Coresh Josef , Carrero Juan‐Jesus , Grams Morgan E.
Published: July 2017

Background

Concerns about hyperkalemia limit the use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (
ACE
‐I) and angiotensin receptor blockers (
ARB
s), but guidelines conflict regarding potassium‐monitoring protocols. We quantified hyperkalemia monitoring and risks after
ACE
‐I/
ARB
initiation and developed and validated a hyperkalemia susceptibility score.

Methods and Results

We evaluated 69 426 new users of
ACE
‐I/
ARB
therapy in the Stockholm Creatinine Measurements (
SCREAM
) project with medication initiation from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010, and follow‐up for 1 year thereafter. Three fourths (76%) of
SCREAM
patients had potassium checked within the first year. Potassium >5 and >5.5 mmol/L occurred in 5.6% and 1.7%, respectively. As a comparison, we propensity‐matched new
ACE
‐I/
ARB
users to 20 186 new β‐blocker users in
SCREAM
: 64% had potassium checked. The occurrence of elevated potassium levels was similar between new β‐blocker and
ACE
‐I/
ARB
users without kidney disease; only at estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
were risks higher among
ACE
‐I/
ARB
users. We developed a hyperkalemia susceptibility score that incorporated estimated glomerular filtration rate, baseline potassium level, sex, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and the concomitant use of potassium‐sparing diuretics in new
ACE
‐I/
ARB
users; this score accurately predicted 1‐year hyperkalemia risk in the
SCREAM
cohort (area under the curve, 0.845, 95%
CI
: 0.840–0.869) and in a validation cohort from the
US
‐based Geisinger Health System (N=19 524; area under the curve, 0.818, 95%
CI
: 0.794–0.841), with good calibration.

Conclusions

Hyperkalemia within the first year of
ACE
‐I/
ARB
therapy was relatively uncommon among people with estimated glomerular filtration rate >60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
, but rates were much higher with lower estimated glomerular filtration rate. Use of the hyperkalemia susceptibility score may help guide laboratory monitoring and prescribing strategies.
Significant Associations of Neurological Complications of Herpes Zoster With Stroke in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Liao Tsai‐Ling , Lin Ching‐Heng , Chen Hsin‐Hua , Chen Yi‐Ming , Lin Che‐Chen , Chen Der‐Yuan
Published: July 2017

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests an increased risk of stroke after herpes zoster (
HZ
). This risk is elevated in immunocompromised patients. The incidence of
HZ
in Asia is higher than in Western countries. However, the epidemiology of
HZ
and
HZ
‐related stroke among rheumatoid arthritis (
RA
) patients in Asia remains unclear.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a population‐based database to investigate the epidemiology of
HZ
in
RA
patients in Taiwan during the period of 2000‐2011. A total of 27 609 newly diagnosed and eligible
RA
cases were identified, and 110 436 non‐
RA
cases were matched for age and sex at a ratio of 4:1.
HZ
risk increased by 2.53‐fold (
P
<0.0001) in
RA
patients compared with the general population. Exposure to corticosteroids (adjusted odds ratio=1.73,
P
<0.0001), adalimumab (adjusted odds ratio=1.61,
P
=0.002), and rituximab (adjusted odds ratio=2.06,
P
=0.008) was associated with an increased risk of
HZ
in
RA
patients. A significant association between the use of methotrexate or corticosteroids and
HZ
risk was dose‐dependent (
P
trend
<0.0001). Elevated risk of stroke was observed in
RA
patients with
HZ
(adjusted hazard ratio=1.27,
P
=0.047), particularly in those with neurological complications (adjusted hazard ratio=1.54,
P
=0.015). A 2.30‐fold significantly increased risk of stroke within 90 days after
HZ
occurrence was observed in
RA
patients compared with those without
HZ
(
P
=0.02). Furthermore, death risk increased in
RA
patients with
HZ
(adjusted hazard ratio=1.18,
P
=0.026).

Conclusions

The risk of
HZ
and
HZ
‐related stroke has increased in
RA
patients. Monitoring the occurrence of
HZ
in
RA
patients and preventing
HZ
‐related stroke or mortality during a specific immunosuppressive therapy are important.
Description of new taxa of Nymphalidae (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) from China
Authors: TSHIKOLOVETS VADIM
Published: July 2017

Three new taxa, Clossiana gansuensis sp. nov., Euphydryas aurinia sichuanica subsp. nov. and Chalinga puerensis sp. nov. are described from Yunnan, Gansu and Sichuan Provinces in China. The taxonomic status of Euphydryas aurinia tenebricosa (Bang-Haas, 1927) is revised.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: Management and Its Impact on Falls
Authors: Jumani Kiran , Powell Jason
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of dizziness in the elderly. This has been identified as a risk factor in falls. Falls are the leading cause of disability and the leading cause of death from injury among people over 75 in the UK.

Methods:

We assessed the effect of BPPV treatment on falls in an elderly population by retrospectively reviewing one unit’s experience of BPPV management over an 8-year period from June 2008 to June 2016. We specifically assessed patients who were referred for the primary reason of falls and were aged over 65 years. These patients were evaluated and treated with particle repositioning maneuvers if their positional tests were positive. The frequency of falls prior to their visit and at 6-month clinic follow-up were reviewed.

Results:

The total number of falls in the cohort reduced significantly ( P < .0001) after the procedure, from 128 to 46 falls (64% reduction). Associated comorbidities were also evaluated in this group.

Conclusion:

A prompt and effective treatment of BPPV is prudent to prevent devastating falls in older people in our communities.
Increased risk of attempted suicide in Australian veterans is associated with total and permanent incapacitation, unemployment and posttraumatic stress disorder severity
Authors: Kerr Katelyn , Romaniuk Madeline , McLeay Sarah , Khoo Andrew , Dent Michael T , Boshen Mark
Published: July 2017

Background:

Military veterans have higher rates of suicidality and completed suicides compared to the general population. Previous research has demonstrated suicidal behaviour is higher in US combat veterans who are younger, suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety and score lower on measures of health. However, research on predictors of suicide for Australian veterans is limited. The aim of this study was to identify significant demographic and psychological differences between veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder who had attempted suicide and those with posttraumatic stress disorder who had not, as well as determine predictors of suicide attempts within an Australian cohort.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 229 ex-service personnel diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder who had attended a Military Service Trauma Recovery Day Program as outpatients at Toowong Private Hospital from 2007 to 2014. Patients completed a battery of mental health self-report questionnaires assessing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, alcohol use, anger, depression, anxiety and quality of life. Demographic information and self-reported history of suicide attempts were also recorded.

Results:

Results indicated the average age was significantly lower, and the rates of posttraumatic stress disorder, anger, anxiety and depression symptoms were significantly higher in those veterans with history of a suicide attempt. Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity, unemployment or total and permanent incapacity pension status significantly predicted suicide attempt history.

Conclusion:

Among a cohort of Australian veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder, psychopathology severity, unemployment and total and permanent incapacity status are significantly associated with suicidality. This study highlights the importance of early identification of posttraumatic stress disorder and psychopathology, therapeutic and social engagement, and prioritisation of tangible employment options or meaningful and goal-directed activities for veterans deemed unable to work.
Home Visiting and the Health of Preterm Infants
Authors: Casey Patrick H. , Irby Carmen , Withers Sandra , Dorsey Susan , Li Jingyun , Rettiganti Malik
Published: July 2017

The results of home visiting programs which target medically fragile low-birth-weight preterm infants (LBWPT) have been inconsistent. We provided nurse/social worker home visits to families of LBWPT infants on a regular schedule. Teams were trained in approaches to improve the health and development of the infants. The completion of immunization series was sigmificantly higher and the infant mortality rates of the home visits childen were significanly lower compared to national and state rates. We used state Medicaid data and examined frequency of hospitalization, emergency department visits, routine and nonscheduled visits to primary care physician, and pharmacy use of the home-visited subjects compared with a propensity-matched group. The home-visited group had more routine and nonscheduled visits but no more hospitalizations or E.D. visits. Home visiting teams improved important markers of child health, including completed immunizations and mortality rate, perhaps by the careful monitoring of health status and assuring health care when needed.
Experience of Black Male Special Education Teachers: Are Alternative Licensure Programs the Desired Route for Recruitment and Preparation?
Authors: Scott LaRon A.
Published: July 2017

Many Black men interested in special education careers enroll in alternate route special education programs over traditional preparation programs. However, there is little research that focuses on their reasons for choosing special education alternate route programs and what makes these programs an effective choice for Black men pursuing teaching careers in special education. This qualitative study interviewed Black men regarding (a) reasons they chose an alternate route special education program, (b) core components of the program they found effective, and (c) support needs once they exited programming. Several themes emerged from this study and indicated that funding, targeted recruitment, and mentoring from Black faculty were among important factors for recruitment and retention. Recommendations for the field, implications and recommendations for policy and practice, and future research are also discussed.
An Investigation of Varying Amounts of Component- Task Practice on Dual-Task Performance
Authors: Rieck Angela M. , Ogden George D. , Anderson Nancy S.
Published: July 2017

The effects of different amounts of single- and dual-task practice were evaluated on the fourth, final training trial and with two transfer trials-a dual-task setting with the same tracking task that was used during practice and a dual-task setting with two different component tasks. Results showed that single-task practice contributed little to subsequent dual-task performance, but that the amount of dual-task practice was a major determinant of subsequent dual-task performance. In addition, the amount of dual-task practice resulted in positive transfer to the dual-task setting with the same tracking task in a linear fashion. A post hoc analysis revealed that the effects of practice on the transfer tasks were partially dependent upon the subject ability levels.
Differences in Eye Movement Data Recorded by Electro-Oculography and Corneal Reflection Techniques
Authors: Lehtelä Jouni
Published: July 2017

When the informatory workload is studied using eye-movement technique, the interesting variables are duration of fixations and the number of saccades and blinks. These can be measured by electro-oculography and corneal reflection techniques.

To ensure that both methods had the same information source in the study, the equipment was used simultaneously. The source was formed by fixed targets. The subject's head was left free, simulating field conditions.

The results of the study indicate that the number of blinks could be determined exactly by either method. With corneal reflection techniques, microsaccades were not found, but saccades were found more easily.
Locus of the Stimulus to Visual Accommodation: Where in the World, or Where in the Eye?
Authors: Hull J. C. , Gill Richard T. , Roscoe Stanley N.
Published: July 2017

Eight observers judged the apparent size of a "moon" simulated by projecting a collimated disk of light just above the horizon in real scenes and virtual images. In each of three viewing conditions, Back-lighted Screen (collimated), Back-projected Photograph (collimated), and Natural Campus Scene, masks inserted in the viewing aperture of the "moon machine" obscured various horizontal bands of the lower half of the visual field. With each experimental manipulation, both the perceived size of the moon and the observer's visual accommodation distance (measured with a laser optometer) covaried systematically. From the combined results of two experiments, it appears that (1) viewing a collimated image of a natural vista does not have the same effects as viewing the actual scene, (2) the retinal locus of visible texture is the primary determinant of perceived size of objects of constant visual angle embedded in natural scenes, and it has a strong effect on accommodation to virtual images, and (3) the overall correlation between apparent, or perceived, size and accommodation shift from the individual's dark focus, averaged across observers, approaches unity (r = 0.97).
Evaluations of an Architectural Space as a Function of Variations in Furniture Arrangement, Furniture Density, and Windows
Authors: Kaye Stuart M. , Murray Michael A.
Published: July 2017

Slides of interior spaces were rated on 30 seven-point unipolar scales. One slide, showing a water-color drawing of a living room, varied as to the presence or absence of a window, the furniture arrangement, and the furniture density. Factor analysis of responses to all slides extracted Social-Aesthetic, Physical Organization, Mood, and Size dimensions, accounting for 62.9% of the total variance. A MANOVA of the 18 scales loading highly on these factors indicated significant effects of window and furniture density, whereas furniture arrangement and the sex of the subjects were not significant. Univariate analyses indicated that the window variable significantly affected the Social-Aesthetic, Mood, and Size factors, whereas furniture density affected the Physical Organization and Size ratings.
Cognitive Load and the Functional Field of View
Authors: Williams Leonard J.
Published: July 2017

In an experiment that kept visual display factors constant but which varied cognitive load, it was found that cognitive load modulated the functional field of view. When given a high level of foveal (cognitive) load, the functional field of view was only about 2 deg in diameter, whereas a low level of foveal load resulted in a functional field of about 4 deg diameter. The shrinkage of the functional field appeared to be rather generalized and not a true tunnelvision effect.
Application of a Multifactor Approach to Transfer of Training Research
Authors: Simon Charles W. , Roscoe Stanley N.
Published: July 2017

A multifactor, multicriterion transfer of training experiment involving a computer-generated horizontal tracking task was conducted to establish relationships among training and transfer scores for manual control of a maneuvering vehicle, to determine the response surfaces for training and transfer, and to demonstrate a new transfer research paradigm that makes economically feasible the simultaneous investigation of the effects of a large number of training-equipment and use variables on transfer to multiple-criterion vehicle configurations. There were 80 experimental participants, 48 of whom were trained and tested on individually unique combinations of training and transfer conditions. This study was the first to measure the training and transfer effects of as many as six training equipment and use factors in a single experiment, to examine as many as 25 training-vehicle configurations in the same experiment, to train a single individual on each of 48 training conditions, to employ multiple (3) transfer vehicle configurations, and to provide data suitable for deriving multiple-regression equations for estimating the transfer effectiveness of configurations not directly studied.
The Representation of Command Language Syntax
Authors: Bauer David W. , Eddy John K.
Published: July 2017

Command languages provide a powerful user interface for many applications, although this power is not without a price. Such languages are usually complex, making learning of the language difficult and error-prone. For this reason, a simple description of any command language is crucial to its success. Two popular methods of representing the syntax of command languages were compared in the experiments reported here. One method uses special meta-characters to represent grammatical relations, whereas a graphic method uses boxes and arrows much like a flowchart. In Experiment 1, the graphic method was learned faster and with fewer errors. Experiment 2 compared the two methods in a reference task as contrasted to a learning task, and the graphic method was again found superior. Experiment 3 demonstrated that the superiority of the graphic method over text obtains whether the rules are simple or complex.
Chinese Population Stereotypes: Color Associations
Authors: Courtney Alan J.
Published: July 2017

Population stereotypes for color were tested using a paper-and-pencil test. Seven hundred and eighty-four Yunnan Province Chinese subjects of both sexes from a wide range of ages and backgrounds were asked to indicate color associations for nine concepts such as go, off, and stop, using eight colors. The results indicated that the Chinese subjects did not yield such clearcut associations as those found with U.S. subjects. Red for stop and green for go, which have virtually perfect association for American subjects, were not particularly strong associations for the Chinese subjects. Also, the Chinese chose green for "on," whereas U.S. subjects were more likely to choose red.
Vehicle Control During Curve Driving
Authors: Godthelp Hans
Published: July 2017

Most of the available vehicle-control models in the literature are based on the assumption that the automobile driver acts as an error-correcting mechanism with continuous attention allocated to the steering task. Based on a preview-predictor model, the time-to-line crossing (TLC) description was developed to quantify the potential role of error-neglecting strategies in driving. Ina previous study the usefulness of the TLC concept was illustrated for straight lane keeping. In the present analysis TLC was applied to describe steering through a curve. When entering a curve, drivers made an anticipatory steering action based on the perceived road curvature and the internal estimate of the vehicle characteristics. This process was analyzed in a field study in which subjects entered curves of different curvatures, with different speeds and with/without temporary withdrawal of visual feedback. The TLC analysis appears particularly suited to describe the quality of the anticipatory steering action and may serve as a general description of curve driving.
Spectral Analysis of Sinus Arrhythmia: A Measure of Mental Effort
Authors: Vicente Kim J. , Thornton D. Craig , Moray Neville
Published: July 2017

To resolve the uncertainty and disagreement that currently exists in the field of mental workload, a unified research approach is required. It is argued that a promising path would be to identify the various dimensions of mental workload and then to develop a metric for each of these. The present study focused on the dimension of mental effort. In particular, the validity of spectral analysis of sinus arrhythmia as a measure of mental effort was investigated using a psychomotor task. The strong correlation observed between the physiological measure and subjective ratings of effort suggest that spectral analysis of sinus arrhythmia is an accurate measure of operator effort. Results also indicate that the intensity of effort invested by subjects could not be inferred from objective task difficulty or performance. Thus, it is important that a measure of effort be included in experiments investigating mental workload. Future research will be directed at developing a continuous measure of operator effort by implementing the physiological measure on-line.
Variability in Brightness Matching of Colored Lights
Authors: Poynter Douglas
Published: July 2017

Fifty-four subjects matched the brightness of CRT images using a luminance adjustment method. The log-luminance ratio (LLR) of brightness-matched images was the response index. Standard deviations of LLR depended on the color relationship of the compared sources, the background luminance, the target type, and the subject's age. Heterochromatic (i.e., different color) comparisons were more variable than either homochromatic (i.e., same color) or color-white comparisons. Standard deviations were greater for text than for circle comparisons and greater for high-luminance backgrounds than for low-luminance backgrounds. LLR was somewhat more variable for the older subjects in this study. By treating LLR as an index of brightness disparity, a one-dimensional scale of brightness was obtained for each subject. The degree of transitivity exhibited by these scales was relatively high and was not related to age or gender.
Automaticity, Resources, and Memory: Theoretical Controversies and Practical Implications
Authors: Logan Gordon D.
Published: July 2017

This article describes a theoretical controversy over the nature of automaticity and suggests implications of the controversy for the design of training programs. One side of the controversy describes automaticity in terms of processing resources, in that automatic processes require little or no resources. The other side describes automaticity as a memory phenomenon dependent on direct-access, single-step retrieval from memory. The two sides differ in their ability to account for four basic questions about automaticity: (1) why automatic processing has the properties it does; (2) how automaticity is learned; (3) how the properties of automaticity emerge with practice, and (4) why consistency of practice is so important to the development of automaticity. The memory view provides better answers than the resource view, particularly for questions about training. Training is an important practical issue, and implications of the memory view for training are spelled out in some detail.
Computer Access for Persons Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired: Human Factors Issues
Authors: Griffith Doug
Published: July 2017

Suitably adapted computers hold considerable potential for integrating people who are blind or visually impaired into the mainstream. The principal problems that preclude the achievement of this potential are human factors issues. These issues are discussed, and the problems presented by icon-based interfaces are reviewed. An argument is offered that these issues, which ostensibly pertain to the blind or visually impaired user, are fundamental issues confronting all users. There is reason to hope that the benefits of research into the human factors issues of people with vision impairments will also extend to the sighted user.
Emergent Features and Graphical Elements: Designing More Effective Configural Displays
Authors: Bennett Kevin B. , Toms Mona L. , Woods David D.
Published: July 2017

When performing tasks in complex, dynamic domains individuals must consider information regarding both high-level constraints (relationships among several variables, performance goals) and low-level data (the values of individual variables). Previous research has revealed mixed results concerning the effectiveness of configural displays in achieving these dual design goals. Two empirical studies were conducted to investigate these issues using a laboratory analogue of a complex, dynamic task modeled on a real-world domain. Performance with a configural display, which highlighted the low-level data, was compared with performance with a bar graph display. For the extraction of information about high-level constraints in a memory probe task, the configural display significantly increased accuracy with no cost in latency. For low-level data there were no differences in accuracy across the two display conditions, but there was a significant cost in latency with the configural display. However, this cost was dependent on both experience and system state. These results suggest that configural displays can be designed to support the extraction of both high-level constraints and low-level data in complex, dynamic domains. To support the extraction of information for high-level constraints, the emergent features produced by a configural display must reflect the critical data relationships that are present in the domain. To support the extraction of low-level data, the graphical elements of the display must be made more salient perceptually through a variety of techniques, including emphasis of scale, spatial separation, and color-coding.
Psychophysical Determinants of Stress in Sustained Attention
Authors: Galinsky Traci L. , Rosa Roger R. , Warm Joel S. , Dember William N.
Published: July 2017

To date, research on the stress of sustained attention tasks has not explored the extent to which such stress is determined by the psychophysical aspects of the monitored display. In the present study, the effects of the sensory modality of signals (audition and vision) and the background event rate (5 and 40 events/min) on task-induced stress were examined in a vigilance situation. Critical signals for detection were slight changes in stimulus duration. Stress was indexed by motor restlessness and subjective reports of fatigue. Restlessness and subjective fatigue increased dramatically across a 50-min watch in all conditions. Stress effects were most notable in the case of visual monitoring but were unrelated to variations in event rate. Hence, from a psychophysical perspective, the stress of sustained attention seems to be identified more specifically with the sensory modality of signals than with the event rate context in which they appear.
Effect of Visual Impairment on Driving
Authors: Wood Joanne M. , Troutbeck Rod
Published: July 2017

The aim of the study was to determine the effect on driving of restricting vision. This was undertaken by comparing the driving performance of young, normal subjects under conditions of simulated visual impairment with a baseline condition. Visual impairment was simulated using goggles designed to replicate the effects of cataracts, binocular visual field restriction, and monocular vision. All subjects had binocular visual acuity greater than 6/12 when wearing the goggles and thus satisfied the visual requirements for a driver's license. Driving performance was assessed on a closed-road circuit for a series of driving tasks including peripheral awareness, maneuvering, reversing, reaction time, speed estimation, road position, and time to complete the course. Simulated cataract resulted in the greatest detriment to driving performance, followed by binocular visual field restriction. The monocular condition did not significantly affect driving performance for any of the driving tasks assessed.
Influence of Extended Wakefulness on Automatic and Nonautomatic Processing
Authors: Humphrey Darryl G. , Kramer Arthur F. , Stanny Robert R.
Published: July 2017

We investigated the influence of extended wakefulness on automatic and nonautomatic processes in memory and visual search tasks. Subjects were trained in consistently mapped and variably mapped versions of each task, attaining automatic performance in the consistently mapped versions. We then recorded performance measures and event-related brain potentials for a 14-h period that began during the evening of the last day of training. Overall performance declined with extended wakefulness, but the benefits of consistently mapped training were retained throughout the night. Performance decrements consisted of an increase in nonresponses, increased response latencies, and decreased accuracies. P300 latencies increased, and P300 amplitudes decreased with extended wakefulness. When viewed together, reaction time and event-related brain potentials measures suggest that the locus of extended wakefulness effects was during early perceptual processes.
Biological Motion and Nighttime Pedestrian Conspicuity
Authors: Owens D. Alfred , Antonoff Robyn J. , Francis Ellie L.
Published: July 2017

Two experiments were conducted in the laboratory to evaluate potential benefits of different retroreflective markings for nighttime pedestrian visibility. Video recordings of a jogger wearing four different markings were made from a vehicle in four different road environments. Subjects viewed composite tapes that included each of the 16 jogger marking/road environment combinations as well as travel with no targets. The task was to step on a pedal immediately upon seeing a jogger, which had no effect on the flow of the video playback. The time between depression of the pedal and the point of "impact" was the major dependent variable. Experiment I showed that performance was better for all retroreflective markings than for the dark control and that it was better with markings of the limbs than of the torso. Experiment 2, which included a secondary video tracking task, showed that performance was better for markings that incorporate biological motion than for a vest or arbitrarily positioned stripes on the limbs. Questionnaire data indicated that 85% of the subjects judged the biological motion markings to be "easiest to see." Also, subjects reported more conservative estimates of nighttime visibility and greater willingness to take personal precautions at night after participating in the experiment.
Anglo–German Relations After 1945
Authors: Cowling Daniel
Published: July 2017

This article re-examines the 1949 war crimes trial of Field Marshal Erich von Manstein, a leading figure in the Wehrmacht High Command during the Second World War. His case, the final British war crimes trial of the immediate postwar era, was fraught with political sensitivity in the face of the Cold War. This research uncovers the gradations and conflicts that characterized British public responses to the Manstein trial, largely overlooked in the existing historiography. It is shown how the successful prosecution of one of the Wehrmacht’s most emblematic commanders for his complicity in the Holocaust became entangled with some of the most contested and controversial issues of postwar Europe. This study highlights, above all, the capacity of powerful political and social elites to instrumentalize the past, disfiguring memories of Manstein's guilt and its manifold implications. These findings serve as an enlightening case study for British cultural memory of the German past, the Second World War, and the Holocaust in the face of an increasingly potent politics of memory. This research thus gets to the heart of the interactions between popular perceptions, collective memory, and political relations so essential to understanding Anglo–German relations after 1945.
Microbiome Associated with Severe Caries in Canadian First Nations Children
Authors: Agnello M. , Marques J. , Cen L. , Mittermuller B. , Huang A. , Chaichanasakul Tran N. , Shi W. , He X. , Schroth R.J.
Published: July 2017

Young Indigenous children in North America suffer from a higher degree of severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) than the general population, leading to speculation that the etiology and characteristics of the disease may be distinct in this population. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted the first microbiome analysis of an Indigenous population using modern molecular techniques. We investigated the caries-associated microbiome among Canadian First Nations children with S-ECC. Thirty First Nations children <72 mo of age with S-ECC and 20 caries-free children were recruited in Winnipeg, Canada. Parents or caregivers completed a questionnaire on general and dental health, diet, and demographics. The plaque microbiome was investigated by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. Sequences were clustered into operational taxonomic units and taxonomy assigned via the Human Oral Microbiome Database, then analyzed at the community level with alpha and beta diversity measures. Compared with those who were caries free, children with S-ECC came from households with lower income; they were more likely to live in First Nations communities and were more likely to be bottle-fed; and they were weaned from the bottle at a later age. The microbial communities of the S-ECC and caries-free groups did not differ in terms of species richness or phylogenetic diversity. Beta diversity analysis showed that the samples significantly clustered into groups based on caries status. Twenty-eight species-level operational taxonomic units were significantly different between the groups, including Veillonella HOT 780 and Porphyromonas HOT 284, which were 4.6- and 9-fold higher, respectively, in the S-ECC group, and Streptococcus gordonii and Streptococcus sanguinis, which were 5- and 2-fold higher, respectively, in the caries-free group. Extremely high levels of Streptococcus mutans were detected in the S-ECC group. Overall, First Nations children with S-ECC have a significantly different plaque microbiome than their caries-free counterparts, with the S-ECC group containing higher levels of known cariogenic organisms.
Scrutinising the argument for reducing penalty rates
Authors: McIvor Joseph , Markey Raymond
Published: July 2017

The issue of weekend penalty rates has been an important area of contention in Australian industrial relations in recent times, with employers seeking reductions in penalty rates or their elimination altogether. In its recent review of Modern Awards, the Fair Work Commission decided to reduce Sunday penalty rates in a number of awards. The decision was in part informed by a recent review by the Productivity Commission, which had gone so far as to recommend that penalty rates on Sundays be made equivalent to Saturdays. In this article, we examine two of the main justifications for reductions in Sunday penalty rates. We begin by examining the question of whether Sundays are still ‘special’ in a sense likely to warrant penalty rates additional to those on a Saturday. We find that Sundays remain the least preferred day to work, are most valued by employees, and occupy a particular role in time shared with family. We also examine the key claim by the Productivity Commission – accepted by the Fair Work Commission – that a reduction in penalty rates would necessarily result in increased employment in the industries considered. We find that there is little direct empirical evidence for this, and that minimum wage studies have been largely unable to find a net employment effect. The relationship among wages, policy and unemployment is complex in a way that defies simple predictions. There is a need for more direct evidence of the effects of penalty rates on employment.
New terms for collective action in the public sector in Denmark: Lessons learned from the teacher lock-out in 2013
Authors: Høgedahl Laust , Ibsen Flemming
Published: July 2017

This article investigates the use of collective action in the public sector by analysing the Danish teacher lock-out in 2013. The social partners in the public sector in Denmark (and the other Nordic countries) engage in negotiations and reach agreements regarding wages and working conditions in accordance with an institutional set-up developed in the private sector. This also applies to the use of the so-called weapons of conflict – strikes/blockades and lock-outs/boycotts – in connection with labour disputes if the parties are unable to reach agreement through negotiations or mediation. But there is a big difference in the premises and conditions upon which collective industrial conflict as an institutionalised form of collective action proceeds when comparing the public and private sectors in Denmark. The article shows how the use of collective industrial conflicts in the public sector has a number of built-in systemic institutional flaws, as the public employers are the budgetary authority and legislators at the same time. This is not a new finding; however, these multiple roles become problematic when public employers use the lock-out weapon offensively in combination with state intervention to end the dispute, which was the case during the teacher lock-out in 2013 in Denmark. The article concludes with the presentation of a number of proposed institutional adjustments for bringing the public bargaining model into balance.
When human capital threatens the Capitol
Authors: Savage Jesse Dillon , Caverley Jonathan D
Published: July 2017

How does aid in the form of training influence foreign militaries’ relationship to domestic politics? The United States has trained tens of thousands of officers in foreign militaries with the goals of increasing its security and instilling respect for human rights, democracy, and civilian control. We argue that training increases the military’s power relative to the regime in a way that other forms of military assistance do not. While other forms of military assistance are somewhat fungible, allowing the regime to shift resources towards coup-proofing, human capital is a resource vested solely in the military. Training thus alters the balance of power between the military and the regime resulting in greater coup propensity. Using data from 189 countries from 1970 to 2009 we show that greater numbers of military officers trained by the US International Military Education and Training (IMET) and Countering Terrorism Fellowship (CTFP) programs increases the probability of a military coup.
Iatrogenic tracheoarterial fistula: Case report and literature review
Authors: Tijana Durmić , Ivana Čurović , Milenko Bogdanović , Slobodan Savić
Published: July 2017

Tracheo-innominate fistula is a rare but recognised life-threatening complication most commonly associated with prolonged endotracheal intubation. We report the case of a 16-year-old boy who developed a tracheo-innominate fistula secondary to the prolonged intubation after a pool accident. After 16 days of hospitalisation, the patient died as a consequence of a massive haemorrhage into the tracheobronchial tree and asphyxia. This is a rare complication, and to our knowledge, no case of tracheo-innominate fistula or any other case series concerning this rare complication has been reported in Serbia recently. This case report addresses the epidemiology of a trachea-innominate fistulisation as a complication of prolonged tracheal intubation, with a special overview of its forensic importance as an iatrogenic injury.
Book Review: Manish Thakur (ed.), Indian Village: A Conceptual History
Authors: Mohanty B. B.
Published: July 2017

Manish Thakur (ed.), Indian Village: A Conceptual History. Jaipur: Rawat Publications, 2014, x + 214 pp., ₹650 (hardback), ISBN: 978-81-316-0638-6.
The selection of a retting method for the extraction of bast fibers as response to challenges in composite reinforcement
Authors: Konczewicz Wanda , Zimniewska Małgorzata , Valera Miguel Angel
Published: July 2017

This article presents an evaluation of bast fiber properties conditioned by the selection of a retting method in terms of meeting requirements for the final application of the fibers as composite reinforcement.

Two different methods of fiber extraction were used in the experiment: dew retting and osmotic degumming. The fibrous material was extracted from flax (Modran variety) and hemp (Bialobrzeskie variety). In addition, retted kenaf fibers (from China) were evaluated for the comparison of fiber properties.

The properties of the retted and degummed fibers were evaluated according to relevant valid standards regarding color, linear mass, breaking tenacity, aspect ratio, microscopic images and chemical composition, which included the determination of wax and fat, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and pectin content and the thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique. The Attenuated Total Reflection FTIR spectroscopic technique was used for the characterization of the fibers. Also, fogging and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions were tested in order to evaluate the suitability of the bast fiber for composite formation. The results of the study proved that osmotic degumming applied for bast fiber extraction improves significantly the fiber quality in terms of color, odor, aspect ratio and VOC emission. The aspect ratio of osmotically degummed flax fibers increased by about 46% and hemp fibers by about 22% in comparison with dew-retted fibers. VOC emission of osmotically degummed hemp decreased by about 35%, but in the case of flax fibers, increasing of VOC has been observed. For this reason, osmotically degummed fibers can be recommended as more suitable for composite reinforcement.
The Body Politic: Bodily Spectacle and Democratic Agency
Authors: Feola Michael
Published: July 2017

This essay engages an undertheorized form of democratic agency: the embodied spectacle that characterizes a strain of activist politics. Where an existing literature addresses “the spectacle” as a tactic of power, it does not do justice to how marginal groups have used radical bodily acts in order to intervene within the image-world of democratic politics (e.g., hunger strikes, die-ins, self-immolation). The essay argues that such performances represent a standing challenge to democratic theory and demand a more richly sensuous approach to how political claims are made. Such forms of bodily theatre do not only “speak” in ways that exceed official civic discourses but, in so doing, they unsettle the space of citizenship. Ultimately, these bodies do something in being undone.
Using Biosocial Criminology to Understand and Improve Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Vaske Jamie C.
Published: July 2017

Research has extensively cataloged the types of interventions that prevent and treat antisocial behavior across the life course. Despite our knowledge of which interventions “work,” there is a limited understanding of why these practices are effective and who does (or does not) benefit from traditional evidence-based practices (EBPs). The current study reviews the literature on the biopsychological mechanisms and moderators of EBPs across the life course, and it provides recommendations to clinicians and program developers based on these findings. The literature typically shows that EBPs may reduce antisocial behavior because these programs alter clients’ biological systems responsible for stress response and self-regulation. Similarly, individuals who receive fewer benefits from EBPs have weaker stress responses, difficulty processing punishment, increased reward sensitivity, and problems with attention, self-regulation, and cognitive flexibility. The implications of these findings are discussed for each stage of the life course.
A pain in the foot and a serious complication
Authors: Bawa Sandeep , McNally Jeremy
Published: July 2017

This case highlights the need for doctors to be aware of tuberculosis (TB) as a cause of monarthritis and highlights the potential for serious complications to occur if TB arthritis is not managed appropriately.
Finite-time output feedback attitude synchronization for multiple spacecraft
Authors: Zong Qun , Shao Shikai , Tian Bailing , Zhang Xiuyun , Liu Wenjing
Published: July 2017

Distributed attitude control for spacecraft formation without angular velocity measurement is complicated and challenging. Based on nonsingular terminal sliding mode, this paper designs two kinds of finite-time attitude synchronization controllers with inertia uncertainties and external disturbances. Aiming at calculating angular velocity in finite time, a nonlinear state observer and an angular velocity calculation algorithm are firstly developed. Then, two strategies for estimating reference signals and two distributed output feedback controllers, based on continuous adaptive technology and adaptive disturbance observer, are designed respectively. Different from existing results, the controllers are inherently continuous and the control chattering is greatly reduced. Also, the designed nonlinear observers need no prior knowledge on the upper bound of uncertain state and are proved finite-time convergent via Lyapunov theory. Finally, simulations and comparisons demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes.
Identification of Gifted Students in Oman: Gender and Grade Differences on the Gifted Rating Scales–School Form
Authors: Hassan Hemdan Mohamed Ahmed , Mahdi Kazem Ali , Pfeiffer Steven , Alzubaidi Abdul-Qawi , Abu Elwan Reda , Ambosaidi Abdullah , Al-Washahi Mariam , Al-Kharosi Tarek
Published: July 2017

Research suggests that teacher-completed gifted screening scales can reduce undernomination of students with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of the Gifted Rating Scales–School Form (GRS-S) in the identification of gifted students in Oman. The participants of the study represented a national sample of 907 students from Grades 1 to 10 in five governorates in Oman. The MANOVA showed that the main effect of the gender was statistically significant on the GRS subscales. Females’ mean scores on four subscales (Intellectual Ability, Academic Achievement, Artistic Talent, and Motivation) were higher than males’. A statistically significant effect of the grade was found on the GRS subscales. Third-grade students’ ratings of artistic ability were higher than other students’ grades.