bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulation of electrohydrodynamics of a compound drop based on the ternary phase field method
Authors: Su Yu , Yu Tong , Wang Guicheng , Zhang Chunyan , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: November 2019

Analytical and numerical methods are often used to study the behavior of multiphase fluid under electric field. Compared with analytical methods, numerical methods can simulate the real physical phenomenon of multiphase fluid dynamics in a large deformation range. The finite element method is mainly applied in two-phase fluid currently, although it can be used to analyze the small and large deformation of multiphase fluid under electric field. This article attempts to develop a finite element model of a concentric compound drop immersed in continuous medium under electric field based on the ternary phase field method and simulate the electrohydrodynamics of the compound drop whose core phase, shell phase, and continuous phase are different. The small deformation simulation results of the compound drop under weak electric field are compared with the analytical results of previous researchers from the three aspects, namely, deformation, free charge distribution, and flow pattern. This model is proved to be effective under certain conditions. Based on this premise, the large deformation and breakup of the compound drop under high electric field are further simulated to investigate the mechanism of compound drop breakup preliminarily.
From cities to super mega city regions in China in a new wave of urbanisation and economic transition: Issues and challenges
Authors: Yeh Anthony Gar-On , Chen Zifeng
Published: November 2019

A mega city region comprises a cluster of highly networked urban settlements anchored by one or more large cities. Substantial studies have been conducted in the 21st century to theorise the development of mega city regions from two perspectives: one focuses on the rationale/challenges of planning and governance while the other focuses on the economic forces that generate the mega city regions. In China, the outstanding position of mega city regions in China’s economic development has been accentuated in both academic research and recent policies. Recent studies have unpacked the political dynamics of mega city regions in China and identified challenges for planning and governance. The present study approaches this issue through another theoretical lens and deciphers the economic process underneath the recent upsurge of Chinese mega city regions. By unfolding the economic transition since the late 1970s to trace the footprints of mega city region development, the paper contributes a discourse of how different waves of economic transition – that is, rural industrialisation, land-centred development and urban tertiarisation – have been steering individual cities towards super mega city regions. The paper also identifies the distinctive challenges confronting the future development of China’s mega city regions, including jurisdictional fragmentation, socio-spatial inequality and environmental externalities, which were created because of the strong bottom-up initiatives in land development during rural industrialisation. New policies and planning are required in response to these challenges as well as to the emerging new industries in the new wave of economic transition (i.e. from labour-intensive industries to the development of high-tech industries).
Transparency and Replication in Cross-national Survey Research: Identification of Problems and Possible Solutions
Authors: Damian Elena , Meuleman Bart , van Oorschot Wim
Published: November 2019

In this article, we examine whether cross-national studies disclose enough information for independent researchers to evaluate the validity and reliability of the findings (evaluation transparency) or to perform a direct replication (replicability transparency). The first contribution is theoretical. We develop a heuristic theoretical model including the actors, factors, and processes that influence the transparency of cross-national studies and provide an overview of the measures currently taken to improve research transparency. The second contribution is empirical, in which we analyze the level of transparency in published cross-national studies. Specifically, using a random sample of 305 comparative studies published in one of 29 peer-reviewed social sciences journals (from 1986 to 2016), we show that, even though all the articles include some methodological information, the great majority lack sufficient information for evaluation and replication. Lastly, we develop and propose a set of transparency guidelines tailored for reporting cross-national survey research.
How and Why Interviews Work: Ethnographic Interviews and Meso-level Public Culture
Authors: Rinaldo Rachel , Guhin Jeffrey
Published: November 2019

Recent debates about qualitative methods have discussed the relative limitations and contributions of interviews in comparison to surveys and participant observation. These discussions have rarely considered how ethnographers themselves use interviews as part of their work. We suggest that Lizardo’s discussion of three modes of culture (declarative, nondeclarative, and public) help us to understand the separate contributions of observation and interviews, with ethnographic interviews an especially helpful means of accessing different cultural modes. We also argue that Lizardo’s conception of public culture should be divided into meso- and macrolevels and that this division helps to show the differing contributions of interviews within and without an ethnographic context. Developing our argument with data from the second author’s ethnographic research and analysis of other scholars’ ethnographies, we show how research that uses ethnographic interviews can help sociologists better understand how these four cultural modes interact.
Stabilization of nonlinear vibrations of carbon nanotubes using observer-based terminal sliding mode control
Authors: Yousefpour Amin , Vahidi-Moghaddam Amin , Rajaei Arman , Ayati Moosa
Published: November 2019

This article is concerned with suppression of nonlinear forced vibration of a single-wall carbon nanotube conveying fluid based on the nonlocal elasticity theory and Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Electrostatic actuation is considered as the control force for the suppression of carbon nanotube. Based on Galerkin approach, the governing nonlinear partial differential equation is reduced to an ordinary one. Since the sliding mode controller (SMC) does not assures finite time system stabilization and also causes chattering in the control input and consequently vibration in the system, terminal sliding mode controller (TSMC) is developed for the stabilization of carbon nanotube based on a disturbance observer. TSMC and disturbance observer suppress the vibrations of nanotube in the presence of external disturbances caused by the internal flow. Numerical simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and performance of the proposed control scheme in comparison to similar approaches. Simulation results show that the proposed control method successfully stabilizes the uncertain system in a finite time.
Changing comprehenders’ pronoun interpretations: Immediate and cumulative priming at the discourse level in L2 and native speakers of English
Authors: Contemori Carla
Published: November 2019

Existing research on second language (L2) pronoun resolution has not yet looked at immediate and cumulative priming effects. By using a sentence comprehension task, the present study aims at priming dis-preferred interpretations for ambiguous pronouns. We test a group of native speakers and a group of intermediate-proficiency L2 learners of English, whose first language (L1) is Mexican Spanish. The results suggest that the magnitude of the immediate priming effect is comparable in L2 and native speakers. In addition, we found that priming at the discourse level can be persistent for L2 speakers that have successfully acquired pronoun interpretation constraints in the L2. Based on the findings, we hypothesize that priming can be determined by the degree to which the structure is a stable representation in the leaner’s system, regardless of the amount of experience with that structure/preference.
Pro-cognitive effect of upregulating cyclic guanosine monophosphate signalling during memory acquisition or early consolidation is mediated by increased AMPA receptor trafficking
Authors: Argyrousi Elentina K , Heckman Pim RA , van Hagen Britt TJ , Muysers Hannah , van Goethem Nick P , Prickaerts Jos
Published: November 2019

Background:

Episodic memory consists of different mnemonic phases, including acquisition and early and late consolidation. Each of these phases is characterised by distinct molecular processes. Although both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) are implicated in the acquisition phase, early consolidation only depends on cGMP, whereas late consolidation is mediated by cAMP. Accordingly, the cGMP-selective phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor vardenafil or the cAMP-selective PDE4 inhibitor rolipram can improve memory acquisition or consolidation when applied during their respective time windows.

Aims:

Considering the important role of glutamatergic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPAR) during normal memory function, we aimed to investigate whether the differential actions of these PDE inhibitors are mediated through AMPAR dynamics.

Methods:

For biochemical analysis, mice were treated with either vardenafil or rolipram and sacrificed shortly after injection. For the behavioural studies, mice received either of the inhibitors during the different mnemonic phases, while their spatial memory was tested using the object location task, and they were sacrificed 24 hours later.

Results:

Administration of either vardenafil or rolipram causes rapid changes in AMPARs. Moreover, treatment with vardenafil during the acquisition or early consolidation of spatial memory resulted in increased surface levels of AMPARs which were still augmented 24 hours after learning. Membrane levels of AMPARs were not affected anymore 24 hours after learning when rolipram was administrated at either the acquisition or late consolidation phase.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that dissociative molecular mechanisms could mediate the pro-cognitive function of different classes of PDE inhibitors, and in the case of vardenafil, this phenomenon could be explained by changes in AMPAR dynamics.
The meaning of leisure to children and young people with significant physical disabilities: Implications for optimising participation
Authors: Powrie Benita , Copley Jodie , Turpin Merrill , Ziviani Jenny , Kolehmainen Niina
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The facilitation of meaningful leisure participation for children and young people requires an understanding of what leisure means to them. This study aimed to understand meaningful leisure from the perspective of children and young people with complex physical and communication disabilities.

Method

A hermeneutic phenomenological research design was used. Data was gathered through multiple interviews with six young people supported by photo elicitation, Talking Mats and direct observation. Individual case studies were analysed, together with six autobiographies of people with similar disabilities. Data analysis was iterative and multi-directional, alternating between segments and the whole throughout interpretation.

Results

Leisure experience meanings were uniquely constructed for each person, based on preferences, personality and circumstances. The tree of leisure emerged as a useful metaphor for three essential features (control, engrossing, enjoyment) and four key meanings (escape, exploration, exchange and expression) of leisure. Children and young people experienced five meaningful outcomes that lasted beyond the leisure activity (restoration, protection, construction, reflection and connection).

Conclusion

For children and young people with disabilities, a balanced array of diverse leisure experiences provides a powerful and accessible route to wellbeing. Implications for practice include understanding the individual, focusing on the social environment, supporting self-advocacy and promoting opportunities for free movement.
Professional practice behaviour: Identification and validation of key indicators
Authors: MacKenzie Diane E , Merritt Brenda K , Holstead Rebecca , Sarty Gordon E
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Professional behaviour is regarded as an important competency for occupational therapy practice, yet little guidance exists for indicators underpinning development or remediation in the educational or practice settings. This study sought to confirm the content validity of observable professional behaviour indicators from an existing evaluation framework for representativeness and relevance for occupational therapy practice.

Methods

A modified Delphi approach was conducted with expert panellists ( n = 30) consisting of regulators, administrators, faculty members, practitioners, and students for professional behaviour indicator consensus, together with a cross-sectional survey of practitioners ( n = 119). Fleiss’ κ and χ2 contingency tables were completed for agreement across panellists, and between panellist and survey groups. Cross-case qualitative analyses identified facilitators and barriers for professional behaviour practice.

Results

Content validity of 17 professional behaviour indicators was achieved, with >85% agreement from the expert panellists and the cross-sectional survey group. Main professional behaviour reporting issues in practice included fear of reprisal, lack of formal policies, and an unsupportive culture. Support from others, documented workplace policies, and self-regulation/duty to monitor were the critical facilitators for supporting professional behaviour in practice.

Conclusion

The professional behaviour indicators in this study offer observable behaviours from which assessment rubrics or tools may be developed. Further study is warranted.
Incidence and Healing Rates of Meniscal Tears in Patients Undergoing Repair During the First Stage of 2-Stage Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: DePhillipo Nicholas N. , Dekker Travis J. , Aman Zachary S. , Bernholt David , Grantham W. Jeffrey , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Meniscal tears, including tears at the root attachment, have been associated with tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in both primary and revision settings. However, there is a paucity of literature reporting the healing rates of meniscal repair during 2-stage revision ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

To evaluate the healing rates of meniscal repairs performed during 2-stage revision ACLR in ACL-deficient knees and to report the incidence of meniscus root tears in patients undergoing primary ACLR as compared with revision ACLR.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients who underwent primary and revision ACLR by a single surgeon were retrospectively identified. Revision ACLRs were grouped according to 1- or 2-stage ACLR. Meniscal tears were grouped according to laterality (medial, lateral) and location of tears. Meniscal repair technique was recorded, including transtibial or inside-out. Meniscal repair healing was assessed via second-look arthroscopy at the time of second-stage revision ACLR.

Results:

There were 1168 patients identified who underwent ACLR: 851 primary and 317 revision procedures. Sixty-four patients underwent meniscal repair during first-stage bone grafting in ACL-deficient knees, with an overall healing rate of 86%. The healing rates were 82.3% for meniscus root tears via the transtibial repair technique and 92.4% for meniscal peripheral tears via the inside-out repair technique. Meniscus root tears had overall incidences of 15.5% and 26.2% in primary and revision ACLRs, respectively. The incidence of lateral meniscus posterior root tears was approximately 4 times higher than of medial meniscus posterior root tears in both primary (12.2% vs 3.2%) and revision (20.5% vs 5.6%) ACLRs.

Conclusion:

A high incidence of meniscus root tears was found in patients undergoing revision ACLRs as compared with primary ACLRs. Meniscal repairs have a high rate of healing and success when performed during the first stage of revision ACLR in ACL-deficient knees.
Combined Transphyseal and Lateral Extra-articular Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Novel Technique to Reduce ACL Reinjury While Allowing for Growth
Authors: Wilson Philip L. , Wyatt Charles W. , Wagner K. John , Boes Nathan , Sabatino Meagan J. , Ellis Henry B.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Treatment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in the adolescent population continues to be complicated by an unacceptably high rate of secondary ACL injury.

Purpose:

To describe the failure rate and outcomes after a hybrid pediatric ACL reconstruction (ACLR) employing transphyseal hamstring (TPH) autograft combined with an extra-articular technique using an iliotibial band (ITB) autograft.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing combined TPH-ITB ACLR between January 2012 and April 2017 with a minimum 2-year follow-up were reviewed. With the goal of decreasing ACL graft injury in this high-risk group, this technique employed anteromedial portal drilling for TPH with an extraosseous femoral ITB technique and intra-articular TPH-ITB grafts fixed within the tibial bone tunnel. Demographics, bone age, standing alignment radiograph for growth and mechanical axis grade, return to sport, graft failure, and patient-reported outcome measures were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 61 knees in 60 adolescents underwent the combined TPH-ITB ACLR, with 57 knees (93.4%) meeting inclusion criteria with a mean follow-up of 38.5 months (range, 24-78 months). Only 3 of 57 knees (5.3%) sustained ACL reinjury. The mean age was 13.0 years (range, 11-16 years) with 36 male patients (mean bone age, 14.2 years) and 21 female patients (mean bone age, 13.3 years), and 91% of patients (52 of 57) returned to sport. Participants demonstrated a high functional level at final follow-up, with a mean score of 91.2 (range, 46.7-100) on the Pediatric International Knee Documentation Committee (Pedi-IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form and mean score of 22.4 (range, 4-30) on the Pediatric Functional Activity Brief Scale (Pedi-FABS). To critically assess growth, a cohort with ≥18 months of growth remaining at surgery was evaluated at maturity. No difference was seen in mean operative and nonoperative leg growth (49.7 mm and 49.8 mm). Although no family reported cosmetic or functional alignment or length concerns, 1 of 18 (5.5%) had a final limb length discrepancy >10 mm (12 mm) and a perioperative alignment difference (0-Grade II valgus).

Conclusion:

Combined TPH-ITB ACLR in adolescents resulted in high activity levels (Pedi-FABS, 22.4; median, 25) and a low (5.3%) graft failure rate at a mean 38.5 months.
Panic Attack: How Illegitimate Invasions of Privacy Cause Consumer Anxiety and Dissatisfaction
Authors: Esmark Jones Carol L. , Stevens Jennifer L. , Noble Stephanie M. , Breazeale Michael J.
Published: November 2019

This research fills a gap in the literature regarding face-to-face privacy invasions. Most research in the privacy arena examines information privacy (e.g., credit card and data information) and ignores the privacy component of face-to-face interactions. Using three studies, the authors explore the impact of physical and visual invasions on privacy control. The findings show that only one dimension of privacy needs to be invaded for consumers to feel less control over their privacy. Perceptions of privacy control have a negative relationship with satisfaction, as mediated through feelings of anxiety. Importantly, two invasions do not have a greater impact than one, and a legitimate reason for physical or visual invasions can lessen the negative consequences in terms of anxiety and satisfaction. These results have important theoretical and practical implications for marketers aiming to design satisfying consumption experiences that also preserve consumer welfare.
Six-Minute Walk Distance After Critical Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Parry Selina M. , Nalamalapu Swaroopa R. , Nunna Krishidhar , Rabiee Anahita , Friedman Lisa Aronson , Colantuoni Elizabeth , Needham Dale M. , Dinglas Victor D.
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives:

Impaired physical functioning is common and long lasting after an intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is a validated and widely used test of functional capacity. This systematic review synthesizes existing data in order to: (1) evaluate 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) in meters over longitudinal follow-up after critical illness, (2) compare 6MWD between acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) versus non-ARDS survivors, and (3) evaluate patient- and ICU-related factors associated with 6MWD.

Data Sources:

Five databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsychINFO, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Registry) were searched to identify studies reporting 6MWT after hospital discharge in survivors from general (ie, nonspeciality) ICUs. The last search was run on February 14, 2018. Databases were accessed via Johns Hopkins University Library.

Data Extraction and Synthesis:

Pooled mean 6MWD were reported, with separate linear random effects models used to evaluate associations of 6MWD with ARDS status, and patient- and ICU-related variables. Twenty-six eligible articles on 16 unique participant groups were included. The pooled mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) 6MWD results at 3- and 12-months post discharge were 361 (321-401) and 436 (391-481) meters, respectively. There was a significant increase in 6MWD at 12 months compared to 3 months ( P = .017). In ARDS versus non-ARDS survivors, the mean (95% CI) 6MWD difference over 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up was 73 [13-133] meters lower. Female sex and preexisting comorbidity also were significantly associated with lower 6MWD, with ICU-related variables having no consistent associations.

Conclusions:

Compared to initial assessment at 3 months, significant improvement in 6MWD was reported at 12 months. Female sex, preexisting comorbidity, and ARDS (vs non-ARDS) were associated with lower 6MWT results. Such factors warrant consideration in the design of clinical research studies and in the interpretation of patient status using the 6MWT.
Unidirectional continuous fiber-reinforced polypropylene single-polymer composites prepared by extrusion–calendering process
Authors: Wang Jian , Song Feiyan , Yu Mingxing
Published: November 2019

An extrusion–calendering process was developed to continuously manufacture unidirectional continuous fiber-reinforced polypropylene single-polymer composites (PP SPCs). The process combined “undercooling” property of the matrix and “overheating” property of the fiber, which can not only establish a wide processing temperature window but also enhance the mechanical properties of the final SPCs. The best tensile strength and modulus of the PP SPCs with only 5 wt% fiber content were up to 53.34 ± 3.56 MPa and 1.81 ± 0.14 GPa, 2 times and 1.59 times higher than those of pure PP, respectively, and they also exceeded the theoretical values due to the high performance of the uniaxial fibers and the optimized process. The influences of the die temperature, fiber contents, and fiber distribution were studied. Scanning electron microscopy was also used to observe the morphological properties of the PP SPCs.
Making and Being Made: Some Preliminary Thoughts on Craft-Education as a Model for Christian Formation
Authors: Ludlow Morwenna
Published: November 2019

Craft-education was an important pedagogical model in the ancient world, but its importance was obscured by the common contrast between rhetoric and philosophy. Christian writers such as Gregory of Nyssa used craft-education as a model for Christian formation, because of its powerful emphasis on commitment, time, effort and the willingness of both pupil and teacher to submit to change. In the latter part of my article I will offer a preliminary assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of craft-education as a model for the process of Christian formation.
Enhancement and Suppression Flexibly Guide Attention
Authors: Chang Seah , Egeth Howard E.
Published: November 2019

Previous research suggests that observers can suppress salient-but-irrelevant stimuli in a top-down manner. However, one question left unresolved is whether such suppression is, in fact, solely due to distractor-feature suppression or whether it instead also reflects some degree of target-feature enhancement. The present study ( N = 60) addressed this issue. On search trials (70% of trials), participants searched for a shape target when an irrelevant color singleton was either present or absent; performance was better when a color singleton was present. On interleaved probe trials (30% of trials), participants searched for a letter target. Responses were faster for the letter on a target-colored item than on a neutral-colored item, whereas responses were slower for the letter on a distractor-colored item than on a neutral-colored item. The results demonstrate that target-feature enhancement and distractor-feature suppression contribute to attentional guidance independently; enhancement and suppression flexibly guide attention as the occasion demands.
Seaweed biomass waste-derived carbon as an electrode material for supercapacitor
Authors: Jiang Luyun , Han Seong OK , Pirie Melissa , Kim Hyun Hee , Seong Young-Hoon , Kim Hyunuk , Foord John S
Published: November 2019

Seaweed fibre is usually discarded as biomass waste after extraction of useful ingredients from seaweed. However this seaweed fibre, a natural abundant cellulose material with uniform dimensions 10 times smaller than other plant-based fibre can be utilized as electrode material for energy storage. In this work, we converted seaweed fibre into conductive carbon electrodes by a thermal carbonisation method. The morphology, chemical composition and conductivity are highly influenced by the carbonisation temperature. In comparison to other biomass sources such as cotton pulp, seaweed fibre is finer, smoother and more conductive at low carbonisation temperature. These carbonized seaweeds were then used as a supercapacitor, giving a high supercapacitance (226.3 Fg−1) at the carbonisation temperature of 900°C, and good stability within 2400 cycles. This specific capacitance is significantly higher than values obtained from filter paper or cotton pulp.
Long-term frailty modeling using a non-proportional hazards model: Application with a melanoma dataset
Authors: Calsavara Vinicius F , Milani Eder A , Bertolli Eduardo , Tomazella Vera
Published: November 2019

The semiparametric Cox regression model is often fitted in the modeling of survival data. One of its main advantages is the ease of interpretation, as long as the hazards rates for two individuals do not vary over time. In practice the proportionality assumption of the hazards may not be true in some situations. In addition, in several survival data is common a proportion of units not susceptible to the event of interest, even if, accompanied by a sufficiently large time, which is so-called immune, “cured,” or not susceptible to the event of interest. In this context, several cure rate models are available to deal with in the long term. Here, we consider the generalized time-dependent logistic (GTDL) model with a power variance function (PVF) frailty term introduced in the hazard function to control for unobservable heterogeneity in patient populations. It allows for non-proportional hazards, as well as survival data with long-term survivors. Parameter estimation was performed using the maximum likelihood method, and Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to evaluate the performance of the models. Its practice relevance is illustrated in a real medical dataset from a population-based study of incident cases of melanoma diagnosed in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Public Sector Performance and Efficiency Assessment of Indian States
Authors: Yadava Anup Kumar , Neog Yadawananda
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this paper to analyze public spending of 19 Indian states on the basis of their performance. We have computed Public Sector Performance (PSP) scores with their representative sub-indicators for the period of 2006-2015. Total 10 years of data have taken of these sub-indicators to capture the structural changes in the economy. This PSP score is divided into two parts namely, PSP Opportunity and PSP Musgravian. Both the PSPs have their own representative variables and the total PSP scores are the composite average of these indicators. Based on these PSPs scores we have computed states efficiency using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and ranked the states according to their efficiency. We applied three DEA models with consideration of State Total Revenue Expenditure (TRE) as an input variable, further we have considered PSP Opportunity, PSP Musgravian and Total PSP scores as output variables in these models. The input-oriented DEA analysis reveals that states should have decreased public spending by 57.88%. The output-oriented DEA models conclude that state governments would have potential to increase the efficiency by 14.16% without compromising public spending. Various policy suggestions also discussed by incorporating empirical findings at last section of this paper.
The Role of Social Networking in Capital Sourcing
Authors: Jaiswal-Dale Ameeta , Simon-Lee Fanny , Zanotti Giovanna , Cincinelli Peter
Published: November 2019

The aim of this research is to apply the tool of social network analysis to situations in capital sourcing, including early stage financing. The study is conducted within the social network of Medical Alley Association of Minnesota (MAA). We investigate the correlation between the main centrality measures: closeness, degree and betweenness, and the amount of funding received by the 163 MAA members during 2009–2012. Companies benefit from their social network to get access to better financing. The empirical results also provide a road map to encourage the sponsored or spontaneous growth of other social networks in related fields. Despite the financial crisis, the empirical results show how competition works when firms have established relations with others. Where an intersection occurs is merely an empirical curiosity and the causation resides in the intersection of relations. The relation that intersects on an organization determines the player’s competitive advantage.
Disability “In-Justice”: The Benefits and Challenges of “Yarning” With Young People Undergoing Diagnostic Assessment for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in a Youth Detention Center
Authors: Hamilton Sharynne , Reibel Tracy , Maslen Sarah , Watkins Rochelle , Jacinta Freeman , Passmore Hayley , Mutch Raewyn , O’Donnell Melissa , Braithwaite Valerie , Bower Carol
Published: November 2019

Undertaking research with young people presents an array of methodological challenges. We report the findings from a qualitative study that took place alongside a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) prevalence study among detainees in Australia. Of 38 participants, 27 were Aboriginal youth. Interviews were conducted using “social yarning” and “research topic yarning,” an Indigenous research method which allows for data collection in an exploratory, culturally safe way. A complex interplay emerged between social yarning and research topic yarning which provided a space to explore responsively with participants their experiences of FASD assessments. Flexibility, including language adaptation and visual descriptions about assessments, was utilized to assist participants recall and retell their experiences. There were, however, challenges in gathering data on the assessment experiences of some participants. We describe how employing a “yarning” method for collecting data could benefit children and young people undergoing neurodevelopmental assessments in the future.
Prognostic Implication of pN Stage Subdivision Using Metastatic Lymph Node Ratio in Resected Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Kim Nae Yu , Son Byoung Kwan , Chung Kwang Hyun
Published: November 2019

In this meta-analysis, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic implication of the metastatic lymph node ratio (mLNR) and its optimal criterion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with lymph node metastasis (LNM). The present study included 3735 patients with PDAC who had LNM, from 11 eligible studies. We carried out a meta-analysis to determine the correlation between a high mLNR and PDAC prognosis. The estimated mean numbers of examined and metastatic lymph nodes were 22.396 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 19.681-25.111) and 6.496 (95% CI = 4.646-8.345), respectively. A high mLNR was significantly correlated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio = 1.344, 95% CI = 1.276-1.416). In 3 subgroups based on high mLNR criteria (>0 and <0.2, ≥0.2 and <0.4, and ≥0.4), there were significant correlations between a high mLNR and worse survival. A cutoff of 0.200 showed the highest hazard ratio (1.391, 95% CI = 1.268-1.525), which was statistically significant. Our results showed that mLNR is a useful prognostic factor for PDAC with LNM. Although the optimal criterion of high mLNR may be 0.200, further cumulative studies are required before this can be applied in daily practice.
Operation feature extraction of flood discharge structure based on improved variational mode decomposition and variance dedication rate
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Hou Ge , Wang Han , Zhao Yu , Huang Jinlin
Published: November 2019

Operation feature extraction of flood discharge structures under ambient excitation has attracted increasing attention in recent years. However, the vibration signal of flood discharge structures is a nonstationary random signal with low signal-to-noise ratio, which is mixed with lots of low-frequency water flow noise and high-frequency white noise. It is difficult to excavate the hidden vibration characteristic information accurately. To solve the problem, we propose a novel denoising method called improved variational mode decomposition. As an improved method of variational mode decomposition, improved variational mode decomposition can effectively determine the decomposition mode number of variational mode decomposition by using the mutual information method. Furthermore, improved variational mode decomposition is combined with a variance dedication rate to extract the overall operation characteristic information of the structure. In order to evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed improved variational mode decomposition–variance dedication rate method, we compare the denoising results of simulation signals produced by an improved variational mode decomposition–variance dedication rate with those produced by digital filter, wavelet threshold, empirical mode decomposition, empirical wavelet transform, complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise, and improved variational mode decomposition methods and find a better performance of the improved variational mode decomposition–variance dedication rate method. In addition, the proposed method is applied to the Three Gorges Dam, and the results show that the improved variational mode decomposition–variance dedication rate method can effectively remove heavy background noises and extract the operation characteristic information of the flood discharge structure, which contributes to health monitoring and damage identification of the flood discharge structure.
Buckling and vibration analysis of FG-CNT-reinforced composite rectangular thick nanoplates resting on Kerr foundation based on nonlocal strain gradient theory
Authors: Shahraki Hosein , Tajmir Riahi Hossein , Izadinia Mohsen , Talaeitaba Sayed Behzad
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates the buckling and free vibration analysis of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite thick rectangular nanoplates resting on a Kerr foundation under different boundary conditions. Quasi-three-dimensional hyperbolic shear deformation theory is employed to study the effects of transverse shear deformation and thickness stretching. To capture the small-size effects of nanoscale dimensions, the nonlocal strain gradient theory is used, which includes nonlocal parameters and length scale of the material. In this study, rectangular nanocomposite plates are reinforced by carbon nanotubes which are assumed to be graded through the thickness direction with four types of distributions, namely, uniformly, FG-O, FG-V, and FG-X. The governing equations and boundary conditions are extracted within Hamilton’s principle. They are discretized and numerically solved by utilizing a generalized differential quadrature method. The critical buckling loads and natural frequencies are determined by solving the eigenvalue problem. The accuracy of present results is validated with those available in the literature. Also, the effect of various factors, such as aspect ratio, length-to-thickness ratio, in-plane loading factor, length scale parameter, nonlocal parameter, volume fraction and dispersion profile of carbon nanotubes, elastic foundation coefficients, and different boundary conditions, on the buckling behavior and free vibration of nanoplates is investigated.
Democracy, Exclusion, and White Supremacy: How Should We Think About Exclusionary Zoning?
Authors: Goetz Edward G.
Published: November 2019

David Imbroscio’s argument about exclusionary zoning contains several salient arguments that deserve the attention of those working on issues of housing justice, racial justice, and urban equity. Attention to Imbroscio’s concerns can strengthen efforts to produce greater regional equity in American metropolitan areas. I find two main elements of his argument, however, unconvincing. First, his assertion that the anti-exclusionary zoning movement “is underlain by a deep commitment to neoliberalism” is a misreading of the greater history and aims of anti-exclusionist advocacy and scholarship. Second, his claim that anti-exclusionism is anti-democratic suffers from an overly narrow and process-focused concept of democracy that ignores historical and enduring power dynamics of local land-use politics as they are and have been expressed within a system of White racial domination.
Change of cytokines after intravitreal ranibizumab in patients with recurrent branch retinal vein occlusion and macular edema
Authors: Noma Hidetaka , Yasuda Kanako , Shimura Masahiko
Published: November 2019

Purpose:

To investigate the relations of vascular endothelial growth factor, growth factors, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, and inflammatory factors to recurrence of macular edema after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion.

Methods:

This study retrospectively investigated 17 patients with branch retinal vein occlusion who received intravitreal ranibizumab injection three times within 6 months for recurrent macular edema. Aqueous humor samples were obtained from these patients at every recurrence. Levels of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2, vascular endothelial growth factor, placental growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor-AA, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-12(p70), and interleukin-13 were measured by the suspension array method. Aqueous flare values were measured with a laser flare meter and central macular thickness was determined by optical coherence tomography.

Results:

Mean best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness improved significantly over time after intravitreal ranibizumab injection, but the aqueous flare value at recurrence after intravitreal ranibizumab injection showed no significant change compared with baseline. Aqueous humor levels of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2, vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor-AA, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and interleukin-8 decreased significantly over time after intravitreal ranibizumab injection. However, there were no significant changes of the other five factors/cytokines (placental growth factor, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, interleukin-6, interleukin-12, and interleukin-13) at recurrence after intravitreal ranibizumab injection compared with baseline.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that persistent inflammation may influence the recurrence of macular edema in branch retinal vein occlusion patients, and that adding steroid therapy might be an effective strategy for preventing recurrence.
Inverted internal limiting membrane-flap technique to treat a full-thickness macular hole complicating idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2
Authors: Sborgia Giancarlo , Niro Alfredo , Coassin Marco , Sborgia Luigi , D’Oria Francesco , Pastore Valentina , Albano Valeria , Tritto Tiziana , Sborgia Alessandra , Boscia Francesco , Alessio Giovanni
Published: November 2019

Background/purpose:

Full-thickness macular hole is a complication of idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 with a low surgical closure rate and a poor functional recovery. We analyze morphologic and functional outcomes after an inverted internal limiting membrane-flap technique for full-thickness macular hole complicating idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 using optical coherence tomography and microperimetry.

Case report:

A 77-year-old man presented us complaining visual impairment in the left eye (20/40) due to a full-thickness macular hole complicating idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2. The patient underwent vitrectomy with an inverted internal limiting membrane-flap technique and injection of 22% SF6 gas. Optical coherence tomography and functional analysis, including visual acuity test and microperimetry, were performed before surgery and over 3 months. Optical coherence tomography scans revealed macular hole closure at 1-month follow-up. Visual acuity and retinal sensitivity improved from 20/40 to 20/20 and from 13.1 to 14.9 dB, respectively. Fixation stability (bivariate contour ellipse area) improved from 2.02 to 1.58 deg2, from 5.44 to 4.24 deg2 and from 9.72 to 7.58 deg2, at 68%, 95%, and 99% of fixation points, respectively.

Conclusion:

Inverted internal limiting membrane-flap technique may be an alternative approach in patients with full-thickness macular hole complicating diopathic macular telangiectasia type 2, and microperimetry may be a useful tool to analyze related functional changes.
Pre- and post-review of a standardized ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization curriculum evaluating procedural skills acquisition and clinician confidence
Authors: Spencer Timothy R , Bardin-Spencer Amy J
Published: November 2019

Background:

To evaluate novice and expert clinicians’ procedural confidence utilizing a blended learning mixed fidelity simulation model when applying a standardized ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization curriculum.

Methods:

Simulation-based education and ultrasound-guided central venous catheter insertion aims to provide facility-wide efficiencies and improves patient safety through interdisciplinary collaboration. The objective of this quality improvement research was to evaluate both novice (<50) and expert (>50) clinicians’ confidence across 100 ultrasound-guided central venous catheter insertion courses were performed at a mixture of teaching and non-teaching hospitals across 26 states within the United States between April 2015 and April 2016. A total of 1238 attendees completed a pre- and post-survey after attending a mixed method clinical simulation course. Attendees completed a 4-h online didactic education module followed by 4 h of hands-on clinical simulation stations (compliance/sterile technique, needling techniques, vascular ultrasound assessment, and experiential complication management).

Results:

The use of a standardized evidence-based ultrasound-guided central venous catheter curriculum improved confidence and application to required clinical tasks and knowledge across all interdisciplinary specialties, regardless of level of experience. Both physician and non-physician groups resulted in statistically significant results in both procedural compliance ( p < 0.001) and ultrasound skills ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The use of a standardized clinical simulation curriculum enhanced all aspects of ultrasound-guided central venous catheter insertion skills, knowledge, and improved confidence for all clinician types. Self-reported complications were reported at significantly higher rates than previously published evidence, demonstrating the need for ongoing procedural competencies. While there are growing benefits for the role of simulation-based programs, further evaluation is needed to explore its effectiveness in changing the quality of clinical outcomes within the healthcare setting.
Evaluation of the Impacts of Identity and Collective Memory on Social Resilience at Neighborhood Level using Grounded Theory
Authors: Aslani Fereshteh , Amini Hosseini Kambod
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a new approach for evaluating the impacts of identity and collective memory (CM) on social resilience will be presented. The approach is applied in Bam city, located in Iran, which suffered heavy damage during the 2003 Bam earthquake. Following that disaster, little attention was paid to preserve identity and CM during the reconstruction phase. In order to evaluate the social resilience components, key concepts and core categories on a local level have been identified, using Grounded Theory. The results depicted that identity and collective memories in Bam city, have been diminished gradually, due to neglecting the intangible needs of local residents in the reconstruction. Therefore, this article demonstrates the necessity of attention to the revival of collective memories in the renovation and reconstruction policies. The results of this study can be used by disaster management authorities as well as city managers to improve resilience at the local level.
Dealing with disgust: Street-level bureaucrats as agents of Kafkaesque bureaucracy
Authors: Nisar Muhammad Azfar , Masood Ayesha
Published: November 2019

Bureaucracy is deeply implicated in the biopolitical regimes that create and render invisible social waste—individuals classified as abnormal, deviant, or useless—in contemporary societies. According to previous theorists, bureaucracy is able to carry out this critical task through moral distance and reliance on technical efficiency. By specifically focusing on street-level bureaucrats, a unique tier of bureaucracy which is often afforded neither moral distance nor clear directions, this article explains the microprocesses of classification, managing and recycling through which social waste management is carried out in contemporary society. In doing so, this article highlights that in addition to official policies, informal factors like social, organizational, and group norms are critical determinants of bureaucratic behavior in front-line organizations and problematize some of the key assumptions of Weberian bureaucracy. Unlike functional interpretations, we argue that, in some instances, the informal factors influencing street-level bureaucrats are more regressive than official public policies and help explain some of the dystopian features of contemporary bureaucracy and its impact on social inequity.