bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New records of Rhagomys rufescens (Rodentia: Sigmodontinae) in the Atlantic forest of Brazil
Authors: STEINER-SOUZA FRANCISCO , CORDEIRO-ESTRELA PEDRO , PERCEQUILLO ALEXANDRE REIS , TESTONI ANDRÉ FILIPE , ALTHOFF SÉRGIO LUIZ
Published: June 2019

Since it was trapped in the XIX th century, Rhagomys rufescens has been considered a rare endangered sigmodontine rodent and an endemic species of the Atlantic forest. Only a handful of vouchers of this taxon were known by Thomas, 1886. Recently, eight new individuals were collected, providing new geographical, morphological and phylogenetic (based on molecular evidence) information on this species. In the present work we report the southernmost occurrence record for R. rufescens at Indaial, Santa Catarina State, with the largest collected series of this species, the northernmost occurrence record at Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo State, and new records from Poços de Caldas, Minas Gerais State, from Ibiúna and Ribeirão Grande, São Paulo State.
Alien True Bugs of Europe (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera)
Authors: RABITSCH WOLFGANG
Published: June 2019

This paper reviews the alien (non-native, non-indigenous, exotic) true bug (Heteroptera) species in Europe. Forty-two established alien Heteroptera are recognized, of which 12 species are alien to Europe (originating outside Europe: eight from North America, three from the Eastern Palaearctic, one from New Zealand), 24 species are alien within Europe (translocated within Europe), and six cryptogenic species are of unknown origin. Since 1990 an approximate arrival rate of 7 species per decade has been observed. A recent trend of increased introductions from North America to Europe is suggested. The most important pathway of alien Heteroptera is translocation as contaminants (49 %), usually with ornamental plants, followed by unintentional introduction through natural dispersal (unaided) across political borders within Europe (28 %), and translocation as stowaways within a transport vector (21 %). The taxonomic composition of the alien Heteroptera of Europe is dominated by Miridae (17 species, 40 %), Tingidae (8 species, 19 %), and Anthocoridae (5 species, 12 %), all of which are overrepresented compared to the native European Heteroptera fauna. More than half of the species are phytophagous (24 species, 57 %) and the advantage of trophic specialization in invasion success is discussed. Most species are currently known to occur in the Czech Republic (19 species) and Germany (17 species), followed by Western European countries (Belgium 15 sp., France and United Kingdom 14 sp. each, and Netherlands 13 sp.), resulting in an apparent (north)west–(south)east gradient probably reflecting horticultural tradition in Europe. No unambiguousevidence exists so far for negative ecological or economical impacts, but more research is needed to investigate possible effects. Introductions of alien Heteroptera to and within Europe will increase, and deserve further consideration.
Review of some mites (Acari: Laelapidae) associated with ants and bumblebees in Western Siberia, Russia
Authors: JOHARCHI OMID , TOLSTIKOV ANDREI V. , KHAUSTOV ALEXANDER A. , KHAUSTOV VLADIMIR A. , SARCHESHMEH MOHAMMADHASSAN ABBASI
Published: June 2019

This paper reports on ten species of laelapid mites associated with ants and bumblebees in Western Siberia. Androlaelaps myrmecophilus (Evans & Till), Cosmolaelaps dendrophilus (Davydova), C. neocuneifer (Evans & Till), C. siberiensis Joharchi sp. nov., Gaeolaelaps praesternalis (Willmann), Holostaspis isotricha Kolenati, H. montana (Berlese) and H. oophilus (Wasmann) were collected from ants’ nests, and Pneumolaelaps hyatti (Evans & Till), P. marginepilosa (Sellnick) on bumblebees. The new species is described and illustrated based on morphological characters of the adult female.
A new species of Lerista Bell, 1833 (Reptilia: Scincidae) from Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, belonging to the Lerista allanae clade but strongly disjunct from other members of the clade
Authors: AMEY ANDREW P. , COUPER PATRICK J. , WILMER JESSICA WORTHINGTON
Published: June 2019

A species of the skink genus Lerista is described from Cape York Peninsula in Queensland.  The species is biogeographically interesting as it appears to be separated by at least 500 km from its nearest relatives, members of the Lerista allanae clade.  The role of Pleistocene sea level changes altering availability of suitable habitat for these sand specialists is discussed as a possible driver of isolation and speciation.
The European Court of Justice and the More Economic Approach to EU Competition Law—Is the Tide Turning?
Authors: Witt Anne C.
Published: June 2019

In the late 1990s, the European Commission embarked on a mission to bring EU competition policy more into line with contemporary economic theory. Over a period of ten years, it systematically revised key legal concepts of all three pillars of EU competition law. Most importantly, it adopted the consumer welfare aim, revised its understanding of competitive harm and countervailing effects accordingly, and committed itself to carrying out more in-depth assessments of the investigated conduct’s effects instead of relying on form-based presumptions of illegality. Initially, many tenets of the more economic approach were in conflict with the case law of the European Court of Justice, which had a broader understanding of the aims of EU competition law. However, after a few initial set-backs for the Commission, several recent judgments in cases such as MEO, Intel, Post Danmark I, and Cartes Bancaires suggest that the Court’s understanding of EU competition law is evolving and that it is willing to embrace at least a few of the Commission’s revised principles. In particular, it is adopting a more effects-based approach to assessing business conduct and is cautiously curbing its former concept of harm in exclusionary situations. At the same time, however, it continues to adhere to many of its former freedom- and fairness-based principles, so that a number of uncertainties and inconsistencies remain.
Gender, sexuality and lifestyle migration: Exploring the impact of cosmopolitan place-marketing discourses on the post-migratory experiences of British women in Spain
Authors: Dixon Laura
Published: June 2019

This article responds to a recent call to problematise the theoretical underpinnings of lifestyle migration and in particular, to critically examine the construction of lifestyle migrants as an ideal-type of individualised subject, freed from the constraints of normative social structures. Recent research has begun to do so, by demonstrating how class, race and gender can intersect to delimit the post-migratory experiences of lifestyle migrants, as they negotiate multiple social hierarchies. This article adds a new dimension to these studies by showing how class, gender and sexuality interconnect through the prism of ‘cosmopolitanism’ to structure the lives of British women in the affluent Catalan town of Sitges. Although British lesbians have more social autonomy than other British female lifestyle migrants in the town, they are simultaneously rendered subordinate in relation to Sitges’ cosmopolitan discourse, which privileges a stereotypical male homosexuality instead.
The effects of educational interventions on suicide: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pistone Isabella , Beckman Ulrika , Eriksson Erik , Lagerlöf Helena , Sager Morten
Published: June 2019

Background:

Suicide is a major public health problem. Educational interventions for preventing suicidal behaviour are widely used, although little is known regarding the collective effectiveness of these interventions.

Aim:

We evaluated the existing evidence for the effectiveness of education interventions in the prevention of suicidal behaviour.

Methods:

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched multiple databases using terms related to suicide prevention. The articles were reviewed by two independent reviewers, and the quality of evidence was rated according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Data from individual studies were combined in meta-analyses.

Results:

We identified 41 studies evaluating two different types of interventions: school-based education interventions and gatekeeper training. Education interventions showed significant gains in terms of knowledge and attitudes, though the effects seem to vary depending on subjects’ personal characteristics. School-based education interventions significantly reduced suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in youths. Gatekeeper training showed no significant effect on suicide attempts or gatekeeper skills, though the quality of evidence for the estimate, according to GRADE criteria, was rated as very low.

Conclusion:

The results of this study indicate that school-based education interventions are effective in preventing suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. In clinical practice, as well as in research, the development and implementation of educational interventions should focus on participants’ individual characteristics.
Fabrication of graphene-magnetite multi-granule nanocluster composites for microwave absorption application
Authors: An Boo H , Park Bum C , Yassi Hamad A , Lee Ji S , Park Jung-Rae , Kim Young K , Ryu Jong E , Choi Daniel S
Published: June 2019

Ferrite multi-granule nanoclusters are fabricated for microwave absorption materials in different sized particles and granules by modified polyol process. Various sizes of ferrite nanoclusters are placed on graphene-based composites and the behavior of their microwave absorbing properties is studied. The absorbing properties are measured using the free-space method with two horn antennas for X-band range (8.2 GHz–12.4 GHz). Relative permittivity and permeability values are calculated in measured frequency domain. The absorption coefficient changes by forming ferrite-graphene composites are presented as well.
Driving Brand Engagement Through Online Social Influencers: An Empirical Investigation of Sponsored Blogging Campaigns
Authors: Hughes Christian , Swaminathan Vanitha , Brooks Gillian
Published: June 2019

Influencer marketing is prevalent in firm strategies, yet little is known about the factors that drive success of online brand engagement at different stages of the consumer purchase funnel. The findings suggest that sponsored blogging affects online engagement (e.g., posting comments, liking a brand) differently depending on blogger characteristics and blog post content, which are further moderated by social media platform type and campaign advertising intent. When a sponsored post occurs on a blog, high blogger expertise is more effective when the advertising intent is to raise awareness versus increase trial. However, source expertise fails to drive engagement when the sponsored post occurs on Facebook. When a sponsored post occurs on Facebook, posts high in hedonic content are more effective when the advertising intent is to increase trial versus raise awareness. The effectiveness of campaign incentives depends on the platform type, such that they can increase (decrease) engagement on blogs (Facebook). The empirical evidence for these findings comes from real in-market customer response data and is supplemented with data from an experiment. Taken together, the findings highlight the critical interplay of platform type, campaign intent, source, campaign incentives, and content factors in driving engagement.
Party Manifestos, Opposition and Media as Determinants of the Cabinet Agenda
Authors: Borghetto Enrico , Belchior Ana Maria
Published: June 2019

Cabinets are the engine of policy change in parliamentary systems. Yet, we still know little about how cabinets micro-manage the content of their multifaceted agenda during their term in office. Drawing on the party and agenda-setting literature, this article addresses this gap by focusing on three main determinants of cabinet priorities: issue priorities in the electoral platforms of majority and opposition parties, and new and unforeseen problems as conveyed by the media. Our analysis reveals that (1) majority platforms have a stronger impact on the cabinet agenda than those of opposition parties, but this effect decreases as the legislative term progresses; (2) cabinet agendas do take into consideration opposition electoral priorities but only when the latter are expressed by mainstream competitors or when the media focus on them and (3) an externally imposed adjustment programme can also create the conditions for strengthening the congruence between electoral and cabinet agendas.
The economic practices of US congregations: A review of current research and future opportunities
Authors: Mundey Peter , King David P , Fulton Brad R
Published: June 2019

Religious congregations in the US receive substantially more philanthropic contributions than any other category of organizations, yet little research has investigated how congregations receive, manage, and spend these donations. Although the economic practice of religious giving has been researched extensively, most of this research has focused on individuals or households, seeking to explain why people give to religious organizations. Relatively little research has examined the recipients of religious giving to determine how giving works within and affects these organizations. This review examines studies in the field of congregational finances, assesses available sources of data on congregations’ economic practices, and concludes with recommendations for new avenues of research in this field.
A Field-Wide Metasynthesis of Pedagogical Research in Technical and Professional Communication
Authors: Melonçon Lisa , Rosselot-Merritt Jeremy , St.Amant Kirk
Published: June 2019

Pedagogical and programmatic research remains important in technical and professional communication. For such approaches to be effective, meaningful, and successful, they must represent effective scholarship that can be used within and address the needs of the greater field. The authors performed a metasynthesis of pedagogical and programmatic scholarship published in five central technical and professional communication journals between 2011 and 2015 ( n = 82). The authors report the results of this research and what it means for the field to approach pedagogical and programmatic scholarship in the future.
Guided Imagery for Total Knee Replacement: Responses to an Audiobook Placebo Treatment
Authors: Umberger Wendy , Draucker Claire Burke , Jacobson Ann
Published: June 2019

The use of a placebo is the gold standard for establishing the efficacy of new treatments in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Placebo treatments are inert; this allows specific effects of the experimental treatment to be separated from nonspecific physiological, psychological, and social effects. The aim of this study was to scrutinize the workings of an audiobook (AB) placebo treatment, which was used in a placebo-controlled, investigator-blinded, RCT of the effect of guided imagery (GI) to improve pain and function in persons undergoing total knee replacement. A secondary analysis of quantitative and narrative data collected during the RCT was performed. The AB treatment provided attention control. Participants in the AB group identified benefits—pleasant get-away, new knowledge, quiet time-out, and inspiration; however, there was also evidence of resentful demoralization, especially in the postoperative period. The use of ABs as a placebo treatment in GI RCTs should be executed with caution.
Positive Surgical Margins in Submandibular Malignancies: Facility and Practice Variation
Authors: Benchetrit Liliya , Morse Elliot , Judson Benjamin L. , Mehra Saral
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Identify positive margin rate in a national cohort of patients with submandibular carcinoma, identify predictors of positive margins, and associate margins with overall survival.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Commission on Cancer–accredited hospitals.

Subjects and Methods

We included patients in the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2014 who were diagnosed with submandibular carcinoma and underwent primary surgical resection. We determined the rate of positive surgical margins and associated patient, tumor, and treatment factors with positive margins via univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis. We associated margin status with overall survival by Kaplan‐Meier curve and Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

We identified 1150 patients with submandibular malignancy undergoing surgical resection. Positive margin rate was 41.0%. Increased odds of positive margins were seen in patients with advanced T stage (vs T1, T3: odds ratio [OR] = 3.04, P <. 001; T4a: OR = 2.89, P <. 001), adenoid cystic carcinoma histology (OR = 1.54, P =. 020), and those treated at nonacademic facilities (OR = 1.41, P =. 008). Patients who underwent a preoperative diagnostic biopsy had decreased odds of positive margins (OR = 0.72, P =. 014). Positive margins were associated with reduced overall survival (58% vs 69% 5‐year overall survival, P <. 001; hazard ratio = 1.49, P =. 001) when controlling for patient, tumor, and management factors.

Conclusions

The national positive margin rate of submandibular carcinoma is 41.0%. Preoperative biopsy and treatment at academic institutions independently decreased the risk of positive margins, and positive margins were independently associated with diminished overall survival. Positive margin rate for submandibular carcinoma may be considered a benchmark for quality of care.
Platform Seeing: Image Ensembles and Their Invisualities
Authors: MacKenzie Adrian , Munster Anna
Published: June 2019

How can one ‘see’ the operationalization of contemporary visual culture, given the imperceptibility and apparent automation of so many processes and dimensions of visuality? Seeing – as a position from a singular mode of observation – has become problematic since many visual elements, techniques, and forms of observing are highly distributed through data practices of collection, analysis and prediction. Such practices are subtended by visual cultural techniques that are grounded in the development of image collections, image formatting and hardware design. In this article, we analyze recent transformations in forms of prediction and data analytics associated with spectacular performances of computation. We analyze how transformations in the collection and accumulation of images as ensembles by platforms have a qualitative and material effect on the emergent sociotechnicality of platform ‘life’ and ‘perception’. Reconstructing the visual transformations that allow artificial intelligence assemblages to operate allows some sense of their heteronomous materiality and contingency.
Estimating the Expected Value of Sample Information across Different Sample Sizes Using Moment Matching and Nonlinear Regression
Authors: Heath Anna , Manolopoulou Ioanna , Baio Gianluca
Published: June 2019

Background. The expected value of sample information (EVSI) determines the economic value of any future study with a specific design aimed at reducing uncertainty about the parameters underlying a health economic model. This has potential as a tool for trial design; the cost and value of different designs could be compared to find the trial with the greatest net benefit. However, despite recent developments, EVSI analysis can be slow, especially when optimizing over a large number of different designs. Methods. This article develops a method to reduce the computation time required to calculate the EVSI across different sample sizes. Our method extends the moment-matching approach to EVSI estimation to optimize over different sample sizes for the underlying trial while retaining a similar computational cost to a single EVSI estimate. This extension calculates the posterior variance of the net monetary benefit across alternative sample sizes and then uses Bayesian nonlinear regression to estimate the EVSI across these sample sizes. Results. A health economic model developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of interventions for chronic pain demonstrates that this EVSI calculation method is fast and accurate for realistic models. This example also highlights how different trial designs can be compared using the EVSI. Conclusion. The proposed estimation method is fast and accurate when calculating the EVSI across different sample sizes. This will allow researchers to realize the potential of using the EVSI to determine an economically optimal trial design for reducing uncertainty in health economic models. Limitations. Our method involves rerunning the health economic model, which can be more computationally expensive than some recent alternatives, especially in complex models.
The persistence versus interchangeability of migraine and tension-type headaches in a 5-year population-based validated survey
Authors: Oguz Akarsu Emel , Baykan Betul , Ertas Mustafa , Zarifoglu Mehmet , Orhan Elif Kocasoy , Saip Sabahattin , Siva Aksel , Karli Necdet ,   on behalf of the Turkish Headache Study Group
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of this population-based validated study was to determine the course of tension-type headache and migraine and to evaluate the predictors of persistence.

Methods

We evaluated the course of headache in a large population from the first assessment in 2008 through a second assessment in 2013. Then we examined the factors associated with persistent migraine and persistent tension-type headache.

Results

Our study in 2013 revealed that only 42.9% of definite migraineurs in 2008 received the same diagnosis again, and of the remaining migraineurs 23.3% were newly diagnosed as definite tension-type headache; 11.6% evolved into probable tension-type headache, 6.4% changed to probable migraine, and 15.8% were headache free. The 17.7% of patients with definite tension-type headache in 2008 were newly diagnosed as having probable tension-type headache, 14.7% as having definite migraine, 6.4% as having probable migraine, and 28.9% as headache free in 2013, and only 32.3% received the definite tension-type headache diagnosis again. Binary logistic regression analysis showed nausea, throbbing and severe headache were the significant parameters for persistent migraine. A multiple regression analysis model with stepwise variable selection revealed that nausea, throbbing and severe headache and osmophobia remained in the final model as predictors of migraine persistence. We found no predictive factor for persistent tension-type headache.

Conclusion

Migraine and tension-type headache did not seem to show a simple bidirectional linear worsening from headache-free state to definite migraine or vice versa, hence the transitions between them are more chaotic, reflecting that there are still unknown modifiers and modulators. Certain headache characteristics of migraine might predict persistent migraine.
Evaluation of Degradation of SBS Modified Asphalt Binder Because of RTFO, PAV, and UV Aging using a Novel Extensional Deformation Test
Authors: Hossain Roksana , Wasiuddin Nazimuddin M.
Published: June 2019

Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified PG 64-22 and PG 76-22 binders are studied to investigate the degradation of polymer because of aging applied by: rolling thin film oven (RTFO), pressure aging vessel (PAV), and ultraviolet (UV). Upon observing the temperature increment of unmodified binder during high shear mixing, a polymer mixing procedure has been established. SBS (2%, 4%, and 6%), polyphosphoric acid (PPA) (0.5%, 2%, and 3.5%), and PPA (2%)-SBS (0.5%, 2%, and 3.5%) are mixed with PG 64-22 binder. Sentmanat extensional rheometer, based on dynamic shear rheometer, is used to investigate the extensional deformation characteristics in which SBS modified binders exhibit both first peak elongation force, F1, and second peak elongation force, F2, whereas, unmodified binders and PPA modified binders exhibit no F2. SBS is the most effective in increasing F2 with an increasing rate of 1.16N/% of SBS polymer. At 12°C and 16°C, F2 of RTFO aged SBS modified binder reduces, which indicates the polymer is degrading. In the case of PAV aged SBS modified binder, no F2 is found at 12°C and 16°C. With the increment of temperature, the PAV aged sample shows F2, but the value is less than the F2 of the original and RTFO aged binder of similar stiffness (F1). A normalized parameter, F2/F1, also shows that RTFO and PAV aging degrade SBS. Evaluation of UV aged SBS modified binder shows no F2 at any temperature while oven aged binder shows F2 value at similar aging temperature, duration, and thickness, indicating SBS completely degrades because of UV aging.
Simplified Calculation of Pylon Top Displacement of Multi-Pylon Suspension Bridge
Authors: Zhang Jinquan , Li Pengfei , Li Wanheng , Mao Yan , Dong Zhenhua
Published: June 2019

The long-span multi-pylon suspension bridge is the subject of growing interest. Under live load, the longitudinal deflection of the mid-pylon is an important control parameter for a multi-pylon suspension bridge design. It is important to establish a simplified method of calculating pylon deflection for the preliminary design and selection of a multi-pylon suspension bridge. Based on deflection theory and deformation compatibility condition, considering main cable horizontal constraints and the interaction among pylons and girders with the methods of equivalent stiffness and moment distribution, the simplified calculation formulas of pylon displacement at the top for three-, four-, and five-pylon suspension bridges are derived. The validity of the formulas are verified by model experiment, real bridge testing, and finite-element analysis. For a floating system, the error between the simplified formula and the finite element method is less than 10%, and that of the model experiment is within 25%. For a consolidation system, the error between the simplified formula and the finite element method is within 16%, and that of the real bridge testing is less than 11%. As the number of pylons increases, the simplified formulas tend to be less accurate.
Access Control Techniques to Mitigate Wrong-Way Driving Activities on Multilane Divided Highways: Case Studies in Alabama
Authors: Zhang Beijia , Zhou Huaguo
Published: June 2019

This paper documents the results of a second phase statewide research project on wrong-way driving (WWD) crashes funded by the Alabama Department of Transportation. The purpose of this effort is to investigate why people drive in the wrong direction on the multilane divided highways in Alabama. The field data were collected at locations where there were WWD crashes or incidents over 5 years. Video cameras were used to monitor the WWD activities for 48 h from Friday to Sunday. The WWD activities were analyzed by the research team watching the video data. The study found that drivers tend to drive in the wrong direction as a result of driveways with a close median opening, poor front access control, lack of backage road connection, and limited sight distance because of large median widths or grade difference. The study also found that there is a high frequency of intentional WWD at some access points connecting gas stations, business, and residential areas on divided highways. It is recommended that access management techniques are applied to mitigate WWD activities on divided highways based on four case studies, including (1) providing closer exclusive U-turn median openings for indirect left turns; (2) improving poor front access control, for example installing a channelized island for right-in and right-out driveways; (3) providing backage road connections for close mixed land use; and (4) improving sight distance for minor-road traffic at unsignalized intersections with large grade difference or wide median widths.
Evaluation of Audible Lane Departure Warning Treatments on Seal Coats
Authors: Pike Adam M. , Wilson Bryan T.
Published: June 2019

To help reduce single vehicle run-off-road and two-lane two-way crossover crashes, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), United States, has implemented various audible lane departure warning systems on seal coat road surfaces. This 20-month research project explored the effectiveness of these treatments using interior noise and vibration performance metrics and provided recommendations on implementation of these types of treatments. The researchers conducted performance evaluations at 24 unique field sites that had 51 treatments, and at a test deck that had 12 different variations of audible markings. The field sites consisted of varying designs and spacing of audible markings, varying spacing of rumble bars, and milled rumble strips. Researchers found that treatment effectiveness varies with vehicle type and vehicle speed. Traveling at higher speeds and in a vehicle with a stiffer suspension results in higher noise and vibration levels. The specific treatment design also impacts the performance. Treatments with closer spacing, longer bumps, and higher profiles produced higher noise and vibration levels. Certain alternative treatments were able to produce noise and vibration levels that approached levels of typical milled rumble strips. In areas where milled rumble strips cannot be used, these alternative treatments are viable options.
Influence of Chemical Constituents of Asphalt Binders on Their Rheological Properties
Authors: Roja K. Lakshmi , Masad Eyad
Published: June 2019

The goal of this study is to investigate the chemical constituents and rheological properties of three different binders used in the State of Qatar. Binders were designated as WL (source 1, low density), WH (source 1, high density) and AH (source 2, high density). Binder composition analysis was carried out using the saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltene determinator (SAR-AD) technique. The percentages of saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes were measured, and from those, the total pericondensed aromatics (TPA), absorbance aging index (AAI), and colloidal instability index (CII) were obtained and their relationship to rheological test results was investigated. In the rheological investigation, the linear viscoelastic properties of these binders were evaluated using a frequency sweep test. The rutting characteristics were evaluated using the percentage of recovery and non-recoverable creep compliance values from the multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) test, while the fatigue resistance was assessed using the linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test. The WL binder was found to have the highest stiffness, which is associated with the highest TPA content. From the MSCR test, the AH binder had the lowest rut resistance. This binder also had the lowest CII value, which represents the balanced chemical composition of this material. Out of the three binders, WH had the highest AAI value which is related to the least fatigue life as measured in the LAS test.
Metachronous bilateral testicular cancer: Case reports and review of literature
Authors: Low Zhi-Yang , Yan Angela , Arul Dhili , Chitale Sudhanshu
Published: June 2019

Background:

It is well recognised that men with unilateral testicular cancer may go on to develop metachronous cancer in the contralateral testis. Here, we present two cases of metachronous bilateral testicular cancer and a literature review.

Clinical cases:

In both cases, the second testicular cancer occurred several years after the initial cancer, and both cases were not screened for presence of contralateral germ cell neoplasia in situ upon the first diagnosis.

Discussion:

We also present a literature review on the need for screening biopsies of contralateral testis for germ cell neoplasia in situ and the risk factors which should encourage screening. Furthermore, we also explore the effect of chemotherapy on the incidence of contralateral testicular cancer and the effectiveness of radiotherapy in the treatment of germ cell neoplasia in situ.

Conclusion:

We believe that screening biopsies of the contralateral testis upon diagnosis of unilateral testicular cancer should be encouraged as it can lead to better management of the condition and a relatively favourable outcome on functional fronts.
Can Justice System Interventions Prevent Intimate Partner Homicide? An Analysis of Rates of Help Seeking Prior to Fatality
Authors: Koppa Vijetha , Messing Jill Theresa
Published: June 2019

When women are killed, they are more likely to be killed by an intimate partner than anyone else, and a substantial number of women who are killed by an intimate were abused by that intimate partner before their death. The proportion of men killed by an intimate partner is much lower and prior research indicates that male intimate partner homicide victims are likely to abuse their partners prior to their deaths. However, limited research has examined the criminal and civil justice help seeking of intimate partner homicide victims. This study examines administrative data from one large urban police jurisdiction to understand rates of help seeking by homicide victims in the 1 to 3 years prior to the homicide. Over 4 years (2010-2014), 197 women and 776 men were killed. The proportion of women killed by an intimate or ex-intimate partner was 39.6%, and the proportion of men killed by an intimate or ex-intimate partner was 3.9%. Police had been in contact with the victim of intimate partner femicides for a domestic violence complaint in 91% of cases in the 3 years prior to the femicide (44.9% resulted in arrest), with an average of 6.2 visits per contacted victim. Among male intimate partner homicide victims, 73.3% had been the complainant on a domestic violence case (38.1% resulted in arrest). Few (<10%) victims sought protection orders before the homicide. Over the 3 years prior to their deaths, 36.7% of male homicide victims and 9.0% of femicide victims had been the suspect in a domestic violence case. Results indicate high rates of engagement of police officers with intimate partner homicide victims before their deaths, and highlight the opportunity for homicide prevention through integration of risk assessment (to identify high-risk cases) and enhanced criminal justice and social service interventions in high-risk cases.
Predictors of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Use at Farmers’ Markets With Monetary Incentive Programming
Authors: Freedman Darcy A. , Ngendahimana David , Shon En-Jung , Merritt Kathryn , Pon Julia
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Healthy food incentive program implementation targeting people receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is supported by the federal Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) grant program. This study examined factors contributing to increased SNAP use at farmers’ markets with an FINI-funded incentive program.

Design:

Implementation evaluation.

Setting:

Sixteen states and District of Columbia.

Participants:

Two hundred eighty-two FINI-funded farmers’ markets open in 2016.

Measures:

Weekly SNAP sales and transactions per 1000 SNAP households in the Zip Code Tabulation Areas around markets.

Analysis:

Two-level hierarchical regression modeling.

Results:

Most farmers’ markets (53%) had less than 100 SNAP transactions in 2016. Weekly SNAP sales and transactions per 1000 SNAP households were 69.9% and 47.7% higher, respectively, if more than 1 incentive was available versus 1. Not having paid market staff resulted in declines in these sales (−34.3%) and transactions (−38.1%) compared to markets with paid staff. There was a 6.2% and 5.1% increase in SNAP sales and transactions for each additional produce vendor. Weekly SNAP sales and transactions were about 2 to 3 times higher in rural areas compared to metropolitan. Clustering of markets within states explained 10% of the variation in weekly SNAP sales and transactions.

Conclusion:

Four implementation factors were identified that may facilitate the reach of SNAP-based monetary incentive programs at farmers’ markets to maximize reach and impact among SNAP shoppers.
How Does Negative Career Feedback Affect Career Goal Disengagement? The Mediating Roles of Career Planning and Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Jawahar I. M. , Shabeer Sobia
Published: June 2019

The social cognitive model of career self-management postulates that negative career feedback will prompt individuals to reconsider career goals, and a study by Hu, Hood, and Creed reported a positive relationship between negative career feedback and goal disengagement. Drawing on this model, we theorized that negative career feedback will trigger cognition in the form of career planning and affect in the form of well-being and that career planning and well-being in turn will inform the decision to reengage or disengage from career goals. Using data collected through surveys from faculty members (Study 1) and managers (Study 2) from Pakistan, we found strong support for the mediating influence of career planning and psychological well-being. Interestingly, and contrary to expectation, negative career feedback negatively related to career goal disengagement. Using a two-study constructive replication format enhances confidence that our results are repeatable and not artifactual to particular samples and/or settings. We discuss implications of results for theory and offer suggestions for future research.
An investigation of small fatigue crack behavior in titanium alloy TC4 under different stress levels
Authors: Zhu Lei , Hu Xuteng , Jiang Rong , Song Yingdong , Qu Shoudao
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the small fatigue crack behavior in titanium alloy TC4 under different stress levels was investigated. Single-edge-notch tension specimens were axially fatigued with stress ratio of 0.1 at room temperature. Results show that the naturally initiated cracks nucleate from the α/β interfaces. When the crack is below a critical length of ∼200 µm, crack growth rates exhibit large fluctuations and temporary retardations due to microstructure effects. But once the crack length exceeds ∼200 µm, the fluctuations in crack growth rates die down and the crack grows more rapidly. There is no distinct effect of stress level on small crack growth rate. A linear relationship exists between the total fatigue life and crack initiation life.
Audit on management of sexual assault victims attending an integrated sexual health service in Coventry
Authors: Kumari Billakanti Swarna , Bopitiya Shyamalie , Bassinder Anne , Das Satyajit
Published: June 2019

The management of victims of sexual assault need a holistic approach. The British Association of Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) has set up standards for the management of sexual assault victims attending Sexual Health Clinics. We audited the management of victims of sexual assault attending an integrated sexual health service against recommendations from the latest BASHH guidelines. We included the recommendations and implementations already in place following an earlier audit in 2013 using the same guideline. Sixty-seven individuals identified themselves as victims of sexual assault. Most were of white ethnic origin (78%), female (96%) and the commonest age group was 18–25 years (39%). We achieved the 100% target in recording the date of assault, offering baseline sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening, HIV risk assessment, offer of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV where applicable and offer of emergency contraception. We were below the 100% target for other categories but improved compared to the previous audit except in recording the time when the first dose of PEP for HIV was given. The BASHH guideline has 14 auditable standards, all with a target of 100%. Our audit cycle completed in three years showed considerable improvement in achieving the standards in the management of Sexual Assault Victims. We hope this will encourage other centres audit their practice against the standards set by BASHH.
Hepatitis C care cascade in HIV patients at an urban clinic in the early direct-acting antiviral era
Authors: Ma Jimmy , Non Lemuel , Amornsawadwattana Surachai , Olsen Margaret A , Garavaglia Wilson Alexandria , Presti Rachel M
Published: June 2019

Guidelines advocate universal, prompt treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) infection in HIV/HCV co-infected patients, but barriers to uptake of HCV direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) remain unclear in this population. This retrospective study investigated the care cascade from HCV diagnosis to sustained virologic response (SVR) at an urban infectious disease clinic in Saint Louis, Missouri during the first 18 months of interferon-free DAA availability in the United States. Of 1949 HIV patients seen in clinic, 91.9% were screened for HCV and 5.4% (n = 106) had chronic HCV infection with follow-up. Of these 106 co-infected patients, 100 underwent fibrosis testing, 55 were offered DAAs, 38 completed treatment, and 37 achieved SVR. Delayed DAA treatment was associated with no insurance, substance abuse, poor HIV control, and younger age. Providers delayed DAA treatment most commonly for substance abuse, psychiatric disease, and uncontrolled HIV. Mean time to insurance decision from initial prescription was 20.9 ± 29.6 days and mean time to final decision was 29.9 ± 40.1 days. DAAs are highly successful in co-infected patients in this early period but insurance delays and misconceptions from the interferon era can ultimately limit uptake. Addressing these factors in a comprehensive treatment model may bridge disparities and improve real-world SVRs.
The gendered experience of HIV testing: factors associated with prior testing differ among men and women in rural Tanzania
Authors: Fonner Virginia A , Mbwambo Jessie K , Kennedy Caitlin E , Sweat Michael D
Published: June 2019

HIV testing remains below UNAIDS 90–90–90 goals in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to understand gender-specific factors related to HIV testing in Kisarawe, Tanzania. Informed by Social Action Theory, we analyzed cross-sectional data from a population-based random sample using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify the contextual, behavioral, and interpersonal factors associated with prior HIV testing – specifically, any prior testing and testing within the past year. Of 644 participants, 63.1% of men and 85.5% of women reported ever testing for HIV. Younger men and women (aged 18–25 years) had significantly lower odds of prior HIV testing compared with older participants. For men, low levels of anticipated stigma and having ever talked about HIV were both positively associated with any prior testing. Men who knew if a sexual partner had received an HIV test had almost three times the odds of receiving a recent HIV test compared to men with no knowledge of their partners’ testing status (aOR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.22–7.17, p = 0.01). For women, knowing someone who is HIV-positive was associated with increased odds of any prior testing (aOR = 2.74, 95% CI: 1.24–6.07, p = 0.01). Gender-specific, proactive interventions are needed to increase testing uptake, especially for young people and men.
Incidence and significance of an elevated red blood cell distribution width among hospitalised HIV-infected adult patients
Authors: Dissanayake Oshani , Merriman Rebekah C , Alnajar Sara , Hunter Alan , Burns Fiona , Miller Robert F
Published: June 2019

We audited the records of unselected hospitalised HIV-positive adults admitted to a University-affiliated inner London hospital to identify the frequency of elevated red blood cell distribution width (RDW), and potential associations with specific diagnoses, and with outcome. Of 259 patients audited, 188 (73%) were men. Patients’ median age was 47 years (interquartile range = 41–54). An elevated RDW was seen in 50 patients (19%); 200 (77%) had an elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), and 77 (30%) had a low haemoglobin. Only five patients had an elevated RDW without an elevated CRP and/or low haemoglobin. An elevated RDW was associated with a wide range of infectious, inflammatory, and malignant conditions similar to observed associations reported in the general non-HIV infected adult population. Additionally an elevated RDW occurred both in patients with well-controlled HIV infection and in receipt of antiretroviral therapy, as well as in those with newly diagnosed and poorly-controlled infection. Five (10%) of 50 patients with an elevated RDW needed intensive care unit (ICU) admission and two (4%) died. Two (0.95%) of 209 patients with a normal RDW needed ICU admission and four (1.9%) died. The findings of this audit are limited by the relatively small number of patients and the single site nature of the audit.
Optimal replacement strategy of obsolete industrial components under fuzzy data
Authors: Mellal Mohamed Arezki , Williams Edward J
Published: June 2019

Competitiveness and rapid technological advances lead to the obsolescence of household items and industrial components. The challenge to people and industrial firms is to be equipped with the latest items, but at the lowest cost. During the last decade, several works have investigated various replacement strategies in order to optimally replace the obsolete industrial components. This article introduces the first work of the literature addressing a replacement strategy in case of fuzzy data on the components. The approach is based on fuzzy logic and the cuckoo optimization algorithm. Two case studies are illustrated for highlighting the applicability of the approach proposed.
Understanding retrospection: Blended joint attention and the multimodal construction of film flashbacks
Authors: Gordejuela Adriana
Published: June 2019

The analysis of film discourse from a multimodal and cognitive perspective has shown in recent years that such an approach to the study of cinema is a very fruitful one. Among the various cinematic techniques that may be analysed as pieces of multimodal discourse, the flashback seems to be particularly appealing because, while being very rich and versatile, it is also a fixed device and common enough in film as to be studied in a systematic way.

Given those characteristics – formal variety alongside stability – a relevant question would be: how do spectators make sense of film retrospections? To address this question, this paper suggests an examination of the multimodal cues offered by flashbacks in three different films – Ordinary People (1980), Big Fish (2003) and The Help (2011) – and analyses the cognitive processes that those cues activate and which make the comprehension of the flashback possible. What lies at the basis of the flashback scenes proposed is a joint-attention triangle formed by the viewer and the camera, who look together, first at the character in the present and then at the events taking place in the past. Ultimately, such scenes can only be understood in terms of blended joint attention, and they also reveal the importance of other cognitive processes at work, namely time compression, viewpoint integration, and identity and analogy connections.
Prevalence of Obesity and Hypertension Among the Zou Mothers of Manipur, Northeast India
Authors: Khual Gin Khan , Limbu D. K.
Published: June 2019

The present study was conducted to find out the prevalence of overweight/obesity and hypertension among the Zou mothers, a tribal population of Manipur state. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 533 mothers who are within their reproductive stages of age 17–49 years following house-to-house visits. The subjects were divided into different age groups to examine the influence of age on their health condition. The finding shows that the mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure increases along with advancing age group. The cut-off value of BMI for both categories of Asian population and WHO international shows that there is a positive association between different BMI categories and blood pressure (BP). Minimum BP was found among underweight and maximum among obese category. BP was found the lowest among the younger age group and the highest among the menopausal mothers. Although the magnitude of correlation differed, there was a significant positive correlation among BMI, systolic, diastolic, and age. The effect of changing socioeconomic environment and sedentary lifestyle in addition to inactive physical activities could be the main reasons for prevalence of overweight and obesity in study population.