bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital Utilization Among Chinese Older Adults: Patterns and Predictors
Authors: Chen Honglin , Chi Iris , Liu Ruotong
Published: June 2018

Objectives: Our study aimed to explore patterns and predictors of hospital utilization among Chinese older adults in the context of a rapidly aging population and increasing health care costs in contemporary China. Methods: This study used a national representative sample aged 60 years or older ( N = 11,511) from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey in 2014. We applied Andersen’s social behavioral model and stepwise logistic regression to identify predictors of hospital utilization. Results: About 25% of the respondents were hospitalized in the previous year. Level of literacy, rural residence, social support, intergenerational relationships, and negative perceptions of aging were significant factors predicting hospital utilization. However, major variations existed across provinces in the use of hospitals. Discussion: Conclusions regarding how to integrate the complex range of hospital services more effectively and evenly are described. Social services should be developed in response to the hospital services utilization needs of older people.
Design of a fault detection and diagnose system for intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle navigation system
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Xueyun , Xiao Xiao , Pei Chaoying
Published: June 2018

A secure control system is of great importance for unmanned aerial vehicles, especially in the condition of fault data injection. As the source of the feedback control system, the Inertial navigation system/Global position system (INS/GPS) is the premise of flight control system security. However, unmanned aerial vehicles have the requirement of lightweight and low cost for airborne equipment, which makes redundant device object unrealistic. Therefore, the method of fault detection and diagnosis is desperately needed. In this paper, a fault detection and diagnosis method based on fuzzy system and neural network is proposed. Fuzzy system does not depend on the mathematical model of the process, which overcomes the difficulties in obtaining the accurate model of unmanned aerial vehicles. Neural network has a strong self-learning ability, which could be used to optimize the membership function of fuzzy system. This paper is structured as follows: first, a Kalman filter observer is introduced to calculate the residual sequences caused by different sensor faults. Then, the sequences are transmitted to the fault detection and diagnosis system and fault type can be obtained. The proposed fault detection and diagnosis algorithm was implemented and evaluated with real datasets, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method can detect the sensor faults successfully with high levels of accuracy and efficiency.
A modal impedance-based statistical energy analysis for vibro-acoustic analysis of complex systems having structural uncertainty
Authors: Seçgin Abdullah , Kara Murat , Ozankan Altay
Published: June 2018

A modal impedance-based statistical energy analysis for point, line, and area connected complex structural-acoustic systems is introduced. The proposed methodology is applied to perform mid- and high-frequency vibro-acoustic analysis of a cabinet model. The cabinet is composed of several composite plates with local mass variability simulating structural uncertainty, isotropic beams, and an acoustic enclosure. The method uses point mobilities, which are determined using modal parameters obtained by finite element method, to define line and area mobilities via dimension reducing principle. The methodology presented here is successfully verified by several numerical and experimental Monte Carlo computations. With this study, conventional statistical energy analysis is improved for mid-frequency vibro-acoustic analysis of complex systems.
Hygrothermal wave characteristic of nanobeam-type inhomogeneous materials with porosity under magnetic field
Authors: Karami Behrouz , Shahsavari Davood , Karami Moein , Li Li
Published: June 2018

Flexural and longitudinal wave behaviors of nanobeams made of nanoporous-graded materials while surrounded by Winkler-Pasternak foundation, subjected to the longitudinal magnetic field and exposed to the hygrothermal environment are studied analytically. To this end, the governing equation derived by Euler–Bernoulli beam theory in conjunction with the nonlocal strain gradient theory is defined by employing Hamilton’s principle. By adopting an analytic model, the flexural and longitudinal dispersion relations between phase velocity and wave number are derived. The reliability of the present method is confirmed by comparing the obtained results with those stored in the literature. Finally, the effects of the power-law index, porosity volume fraction, nonlocal and material characteristic parameters, uniform temperature and moisture rise, elastic foundation parameters, magnetic field intensity, and wave number are also investigated in detail. It is found that the small-scale parameters are more influential in higher wave numbers where the wavelength is close to the length scale of nanostructures. However, foundation parameters, porosity volume fraction, and longitudinal magnetic field are more influential in lower wave numbers.
Corrugated structures reinforced by shape memory alloy sheets: Analytical modeling and finite element modeling
Authors: Koudzari Maryam , Zakerzadeh Mohammad-Reza , Baghani Mostafa
Published: June 2018

In this study, an analytical solution is presented for a trapezoidal corrugated beam, which is reinforced by shape memory alloy sheets on both sides. Formulas are presented for shape memory alloys in states of compression and tension. According to the modified Brinson model, shape memory alloys have different thermomechanical behavior in compression and tension, and also these alloys would behave differently in different temperatures. The developed formulation is based on Euler–Bernoulli theory. Deflection of the smart structure and the effect of asymmetric response in shape memory alloys are studied. Results found from the semi-analytic modeling are compared to and validated through a finite element modeling, and there is more than [Formula: see text] agreement between two solutions. With regard to the results, the neutral axis of the smart structure changes in each section. The maximum deflection ratio of asymmetric mode to symmetric one mode is 1.7. Additionally, the effect of design parameters on deflection is studied in detail.
The Effect of Graphic Warnings on Sugary-Drink Purchasing
Authors: Donnelly Grant E. , Zatz Laura Y. , Svirsky Dan , John Leslie K.
Published: June 2018

Governments have proposed text warning labels to decrease consumption of sugary drinks—a contributor to chronic diseases such as diabetes. However, they may be less effective than more evocative, graphic warning labels. We field-tested the effectiveness of graphic warning labels (vs. text warning labels, calorie labels, and no labels), provided insight into psychological mechanisms driving effectiveness, and assessed consumer sentiment. Study 1 indicated that graphic warning labels reduced the share of sugary drinks purchased in a cafeteria from 21.4% at baseline to 18.2%—an effect driven by substitution of water for sugary drinks. Study 2 showed that graphic warning labels heighten negative affect and prompt consideration of health consequences. Study 3 indicated that public support for graphic warning labels can be increased by conveying effectiveness information. These findings could spur more effective labeling policies that facilitate healthier choices, do not decrease overall beverage purchases, and are publicly accepted.
The chronology and environmental context of a cave deposit and associated faunal assemblage including megafauna teeth near Wee Jasper, southeastern Australia
Authors: Theden-Ringl Fenja , Hislop Kathleen P , Aplin Ken , Grün Rainer , Schurr Mark R
Published: June 2018

A limestone cave on the lower slopes of the southeastern Australian high country reveals a deep, stratified deposit dated from ca. 14,000 to 2000 cal. BP and rich in predominantly non-cultural faunal remains. Located in a sensitive ecological area between the Australian Alps and the Southern Tablelands, the site provides a valuable chronological archive for the interpretation of local environmental change using the faunal record as a proxy, in particular native rodents and other small mammals. Inferred palaeoenvironmental trends include the cessation of periglacial conditions in the surrounding ranges during the Terminal Pleistocene; a shift to warmer conditions and the establishment of forest and wetland habitats from around 13,500 to 10,000 cal. BP, with a significant decline in cold-adapted species at ca. 11,500 cal. BP and a period of significant taxon fluctuation and extinctions corresponding to a possible peak in warm and moist conditions (a ‘Holocene Optimum’), beginning around 8000 cal. BP and lasting perhaps 1500 to 2000 years. Complications to the relatively steady and continuous chronostratigraphy, formed from an AMS radiocarbon sequence from sedimentary charcoal, arose from the presence of several teeth of extinct sthenurine megafauna. These were resolved with direct U-series analysis to establish their much greater antiquity and comparison of the sthenurine teeth with teeth of extant macropodids from the same deposit through fluoride absorption analysis, which also identified the megafauna teeth as anomalous to the sequence. The site provides an important case study for the interpretation of megafauna remains in stratified sedimentary deposits, especially for sites that appear to contain evidence for the co-occurrence of megafauna and humans in primary contexts.
Decorporation potential of lansoprazole against radiothallium (201Tl) in internally contaminated BALB/c mice and New Zealand White rabbits
Authors: Nishad DK , Rawat HS , Singh T , Bhatnagar A , Mittal G
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

This study examined the decorporation potential of lansoprazole (LNP) as radioactivity decorporation agent for radiothallium (201Tl) in internally contaminated BALB/c mice and New Zealand White rabbits using radiometry and gamma scintigraphy.

Methods:

Animals were divided into three groups, that is, control, pretreatment-1 (1X LNP), and pretreatment-2 (2X LNP). Mice received LNP intraperitoneally, while in rabbits LNP was given through oral route 0.5 and 1.5 h before radiothallium administration, respectively. Mice and rabbits used in the experiment were administered 1.48 and 11.1 MBq radiothallium (201TlCl) through intravenous and oral route, respectively. Once started as prophylactic, LNP was continued as therapeutic twice a day till the end of study period. Radiometry and gamma scintigraphy were used to monitor radiothallium retention and uptake patterns in animals. Gamma scintigraphic images of rabbits were taken at different time intervals up to 72 h and were analyzed for comparative uptake pattern of 201TlCl in all the groups.

Results:

LNP treatment significantly increased the 201Tl elimination over untreated control and considerably reduced the retention of 201Tl in various tissues and organs. Decrease in radiothallium uptake up to 40% was observed in LNP-treated mice as compared to untreated control. While in rabbits, whole-body radioactivity burden at 72 h was found to be 31.24%, 26%, and 18.54% in untreated control, 9 and 18 mg/kg LNP-treated groups, respectively.

Conclusion:

LNP exhibited dose-dependent decorporation potential to effectively enhance the elimination of 201Tl in mice and rabbits experimentally contaminated with 201TlCl.
Causality between Cash Flow and Earnings: Evidence from Tehran (Iran) Stock Exchange
Authors: Nasseri Ahmad , Sayyadi Mohammad , Yazdifar Hassan , Eskandari Rasol , Albahloul Mohammad
Published: June 2018

This article employs data from 155 companies from 27 different industries listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE) for the period from 2000 to 2009 to examine the direction of causality between cash flow and earnings after taking consideration of stationarity and co-integration. The results indicate that there is a bidirectional causal relationship between cash flow and earnings at the level of all individual companies, so that cash flow variables caused earning variables and vice versa. However, at the level of industrial sectors, causality exists only between earning before interest and taxation (EBIT) and cash flow from operating activities (CFOA).
Conceptualizing Surrogacy as Work-Labour
Authors: Majumdar Anindita
Published: June 2018

Using ethnographic findings, this article reflects on Indian women engaged in commercial surrogacy for foreign and Indian couples and expands on the existing ideas of paid and unpaid employment by conceptualizing transnational commercial surrogacy in India. The latter is undertaken through a mapping of the meanings surrogates and intended couples make of their participation in the transnational commercial surrogacy arrangement. Here, ideas about motherhood, domesticity and contractual labour come together to create an understanding of the unique role of surrogates in the arrangement. While emerging research has aimed to conceptualize the surrogate’s contribution through differing theoretical understandings of work and labour, my ethnographic findings suggest that surrogacy and its linkages with paid work are more complex than conveyed by its researched connections with care work and/or sex work. Invoking established theorizing of sexualized care work and reproductive choice, I point to the need for a deeper engagement with the idea of work-labour itself. Within this wider conceptualization are social categories that mediate between commerce and intimacy—including that of the paid domestic worker. By using frames used to study paid domestic work in India and South Asia, I portray surrogacy and the commercial surrogate through notions of domesticity, family and intimacy paying particular attention to its linkages with paid work.
Reorienting Educational Efforts for Sustainable Development: Experiences from South Asia
Authors: Mathar Reiner
Published: June 2018

Rajeswari Namagiri Gorana and Preeti Rawat Kanaujia (Eds), Springer, Netherlands, 2016, 205 pages, US$ 92.35. ISBN 978-94-017-7620-2.

Book series: Schooling for Sustainable Development http://www.springer.com/in/book/9789401776202
Decoding Mass Media Techniques and Education for Sustainable Development
Authors: Kotsalas Ioannis P. , Antoniou Anna , Scoullos Michael
Published: June 2018

A fundamental objective of environmental education (EE) and education for sustainable development (ESD) is the promotion of critical thinking, through which learners could resist messages (e.g., from TV), leading to unsustainable lifestyles and practices. The analysis of messages from media was used for: identifying influencing techniques; presenting these techniques to secondary school students allowing them to identify the techniques in messages from advertisements and assess their impact. After a very brief educational intervention, 84 per cent of the students were able to identify and decode techniques and make useful reflections. Furthermore, some techniques were tested as potentially useful for enhancing learning and/or environmental-friendly attitudes. The use of advertisement methods in teaching did not facilitate the assimilation of knowledge related to environmental science (chemistry); however, it improved the attitudes towards environmental-friendly and sustainable approaches.
Predictors of Earnings Enabling Likely Roll Departure for SSDI Beneficiaries With Visual Impairments in Vocational Rehabilitation
Authors: Giesen J. Martin , Lang Anne Hierholzer
Published: June 2018

We examined individual, socioeconomic, disability, service, and state-level factors predicting vocational rehabilitation (VR) closure earnings exceeding substantial gainful activity for Social Security Disability Insurance (DI) beneficiaries in VR who were blind or visually impaired (BVI). We used 2011 RSA-911 (Rehabilitation Services Administration) data from 3,505 individuals exiting VR. Using multilevel modeling, we found positive relationships for beneficiaries who were male, younger, African American; held higher education levels; were without additional disabilities; had higher earnings and DI benefits at application; received services related to job placement and on-the-job supports; did not receive “work basics” (job-readiness) training; received training/support services in rehabilitation technology and other supports; and resided in states with lower unemployment rates. Interactions with VR agency structure revealed compensatory effects—negative relationships for being female and for being older were overcome by receiving services in a blind (rather than combined) agency. We concluded that prior work experience of a DI-beneficiary consumer contributes substantially to high earnings likely to lead to benefits termination due to work for the BVI consumer exiting VR and may serve to level race/ethnicity differences in outcome. Policy recommendations include retaining separate VR agencies for BVI consumers and strongly encouraging work experiences for consumers in VR.
SCORS-G and Card Pull Effect of TAT Stories: A Study With a Nonclinical Sample of Children
Authors: Auletta Andrea F. , Cupellaro Simone , Abbate Luigi , Aiello Elena , Cornacchia Pamela , Norcia Claudia , Sogos Carla
Published: June 2018

Previous research has shown that stimulus pull is one of the contributory factors influencing Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) responses. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of studies examining this. In particular, the Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale–Global Rating Method (SCORS-G) has been employed to examine stimulus pull in adult clinical and nonclinical samples. The present study is the first attempt to examine this issue in a nonclinical sample of children. Ninety-eight children from Italian elementary (1st to 5th grade) and middle (6th to 8th grade) schools provided narratives to six TAT cards (1, 2, 3BM, 4, 8BM, and 16). Some important findings with regard to variance within scales replicate prior findings from other studies. Furthermore, some findings regarding the specific nature of pull for particular TAT cards (1, 2, 3BM, and 4) replicate prior work. Given that Cards 8BM and 16’s SCORS-G stimulus properties have not been previously studied, the pull of these cards is explored. Last, SCORS-G differences/similarities across these two age groups are highlighted. Suggestions for further research in this field are also provided, particularly concerning the use of SCORS-G and TAT for clinical assessment.
Anticoagulation Therapy in Specific Cardiomyopathies: Isolated Left Ventricular Noncompaction and Peripartum Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kido Kazuhiko , Guglin Maya
Published: June 2018

In 2 distinct entities, left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) and peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), routine anticoagulation therapy is often used in current practices. However, our systematic review showed that LVNC itself was not associated with the increase in thromboembolism event rates and therapeutic anticoagulation therapy should not be considered only for LVNC, unless there is risk factor for thromboembolism. Current literature justifies prophylactic therapeutic anticoagulation in LVNC with low left ventricular ejection fraction (EF < 40%) and/or atrial fibrillation. Although not specifically studied, the presence of intracardiac thrombi by echocardiography or other imaging studies should also prompt anticoagulation therapy. There is limited evidence available for the use of anticoagulation in patients with PPCM, but our systematic review showed that anticoagulation should be recommended only for patients with PPCM especially with an EF < 35% until EF is recovered, as well as for patients with PPCM treated with bromocriptine.
MCMI-III Personality Disorders, Traits, and Profiles in Adult ADHD Outpatients
Authors: Oliva Francesco , Mangiapane Chiara , Nibbio Gabriele , Portigliatti Pomeri Alberto , Maina Giuseppe
Published: June 2018

Objective: To assess prevalence of personality traits and disorders according to Millon’s evolution-based model and to identify the most representative personality profiles among adult ADHD outpatients. Method: Personality traits and disorders were evaluated using the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory–III (MCMI-III) and an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in a consecutive sample of adult ADHD outpatients ( N = 70) diagnosed by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale–version 1.1 (ASRS-v1.1) and the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA 2.0). Results: More than half of our sample (57.1%) showed at least one personality disorder (PD). The most prevalent PDs were paranoid, schizotypal and negativistic (18.6% for all three PDs), depressive (17.1%), and sadistic (11.4%). No patient had a borderline PD. The EFA identified three personality profiles (“sadistic-antisocial-negativistic,” “masochistic-depressive-dependent-avoidant,” and “antihistrionic-schizoid”). Conclusion: High prevalence of PDs among adult ADHD patients was confirmed. The personality profiles seemed to reflect the persistence of ADHD and related childhood comorbidities in adulthood.
Shear mechanical properties of the core structure of biomimetic fully integrated honeycomb plates
Authors: Tuo Wanyong , Chen Jinxiang , Xu Mengye , Zhang Zhijie , Guo Zhensheng
Published: June 2018

In the present study, the shear failure mode and mechanical properties of the core structure of biomimetic fully integrated honeycomb plates with sealing edges were investigated experimentally and through the finite element method. The findings are as follows: (1) the failure mode of the sealing edges and honeycomb walls perpendicular to the shear direction is mainly debonding between the fiber and matrix, whereas fiber breakage, debonding between the fiber and matrix and exfoliation of the resin matrix occur in the sealing edges parallel to the shear direction. Meanwhile, the reasonableness and feasibility of the double shear testing apparatus designed in this study were verified, thus confirming the results of research are reliable and valid. (2) Shear failure of the core structure of fully integrated honeycomb plates is mainly fiber debonding appearing in the middle surface of the core structure, which is a failure of the material interface. Stripping failure in the joint interface of the core layer and upper and lower plates does not occur, which indicates that the biological structure possesses excellent integral mechanical properties. (3) The sealing edges parallel to the shear direction and the honeycomb walls that are oriented 30 degrees to the shear direction are the first to fail, followed by the sealing edges and honeycomb walls perpendicular to the shear direction, which is consistent with the microscopic failure phenomenon observed in both directions. To prevent failure at the material interface, the fully integrated honeycomb plates manufactured in this experiment require further improvements. Thus, countermeasures are proposed, such as pre-treating the fiber surface. These findings will specify future research directions to perfect fully integrated honeycomb plates and improve the shear mechanical properties of core structures.
Lamina cribrosa position and Bruch’s membrane opening differences between anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Rebolleda Gema , Pérez-Sarriegui Ane , Díez-Álvarez Laura , De Juan Victoria , Muñoz-Negrete Francisco J
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

To compare the optic nerve head morphology among primary open-angle glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy eyes, their fellow healthy eyes and control eyes, using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with enhanced depth imaging.

Methods:

Observational cross-sectional study including 88 eyes of 68 patients. In this study, 23 non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy eyes, 17 fellow unaffected eyes, 25 primary open-angle glaucoma eyes, and 23 age-matched control eyes were included. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and optic disk area were evaluated. Bruch’s membrane opening diameter, optic cup depth, anterior lamina cribrosa depth, and prelaminar tissue thickness were assessed.

Results:

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and primary open-angle glaucoma eyes had similar visual field mean deviation and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (P = 0.6 and P = 0.56, respectively). Bruch’s membrane opening diameter was significantly larger in primary open-angle glaucoma eyes than in control eyes (P = 0.02). Lamina cribrosa and disk cup were deeper in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma than both control and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy eyes (P < 0.001). Prelaminar tissue thickness was significantly thinner in primary open-angle glaucoma eyes than in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy eyes (P < 0.001). Lamina cribrosa was shallower in both non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and unaffected fellow eyes compared to healthy eyes (P < 0.001 and P = 0.04, respectively). No differences were found in the optic disk area.

Conclusion:

A forward lamina cribrosa placement and not a smaller disk could be involved in the pathogenesis of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. A significantly larger Bruch’s membrane opening diameter was found in primary open-angle glaucoma eyes compared with control eyes. This issue has clinical implications because Bruch’s membrane opening has been considered a stable reference for disk-related measures.
Estimating MS-related work productivity loss and factors associated with work productivity loss in a representative Australian sample of people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chen Jing , Taylor Bruce , Palmer Andrew J , Kirk-Brown Andrea , van Dijk Pieter , Simpson Steve , Blizzard Leigh , van der Mei Ingrid
Published: June 2018

Background:

Little is known about the work productivity loss in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objectives:

To quantify the MS-related work productivity loss and to compare factors associated with labour force participation and work productivity loss.

Methods:

Participants were from the Australian MS Longitudinal Study. MS-related work productivity loss included absenteeism (time missed from work) and presenteeism (reduced productivity while working). Data were analysed using log-binomial and Cragg hurdle regression.

Results:

Among 740 MS employees, 56% experienced any work productivity loss due to MS in the past 4  weeks. The mean total work productivity loss was 2.5  days (14.2% lost productive time), absenteeism 0.6  days (3.4%) and presenteeism 1.9  days (10.8%)), leading to AU$6767 (US$4985, EURO€4578) loss per person annually. Multivariable analyses showed that work productivity was determined most strongly by symptoms, particularly ‘fatigue and cognitive symptoms’ and ‘pain and sensory symptoms’, while older age, and lower education level were also predictive of not being in the labour force.

Conclusion:

MS-related presenteeism was three times higher than absenteeism, highlighting the importance of presenteeism being included in employment outcomes. The dominance of symptom severity as predictors of both work participation and productivity loss emphasises the need for improved management of symptoms.
Successful implementation of an automated electronic support system for patient safety monitoring: The alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis safety systems (AMS3) study
Authors: Reddel Stephen W , Barnett Michael H , Riminton Sean , Dugal Tej , Buzzard Katherine , Wang Chenu Tim , Fitzgerald Fiona , Beadnall Heidi N , Erickson Diane , Gahan David , Wang Daniel , Ackland Toby , Thompson Richard
Published: June 2018

Background:

Alemtuzumab is a highly effective treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) but requires ongoing pathology monitoring for autoimmune adverse effects. The Alemtuzumab in MS Safety Systems (AMS3) study evaluated the implementation of an automated pathology-monitoring system.

Objectives:

To develop an efficient automated clinical decision support system (CDSS) to electronically prompt and track pathology collection and to provide prescribers and patients with customised alerts of abnormal results for identified risks.

Methods:

A total of 10 patients with relapsing-remitting MS treated with alemtuzumab were enrolled to test the system. Standard care laboratory monitoring was performed and compared to the performance of the CDSS.

Results:

The automated CDSS, an integrated patient smartphone application and an additional pre-screening tool were all successfully developed. Compliance with pathology monitoring was 96.7%. The automated analysis of pathology results was significantly faster than standard care neurologist review ( p < 0.001). The system correctly identified and alerted abnormalities, including one case of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) while the treating neurologist was on leave, enabling prompt treatment of serious adverse events. During the course of the study, the CDSS was deployed throughout Australia.

Conclusion:

We successfully developed automated pathology monitoring with a CDSS, demonstrating real-world benefits of high compliance and timely alerting of important results.
Gathering expert opinion to inform benchmarks to support transitional care
Authors: Aldiss Susie , Rose Laura , McCutcheon Dominic , Cass Hilary , Ellis Judith , Gibson Faith
Published: June 2018

This study aimed to (1) explore views of known experts leading on transition, (2) gather insights on the essential features of transitional care models and (3) highlight opportunities for and barriers to change: to inform core elements of benchmarks for transitional care. We held three workshops ( n = 20) and used a telephone interview ( n = 1) with health and social care professionals with expertise working with young people with a range of health conditions and disabilities. The workshops included individual brainstorming and group discussion. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The general consensus from stakeholders’ discussions about transition was that ‘things have become stuck’. Themes included: professionals’ attitudes towards and knowledge about young people and transition, organizational barriers and ‘lack of joined-up thinking’ between services. Our work offers further insight into experts’ perceptions of transition services within the United Kingdom. It is clear that there is still much to be done to improve transition, to better meet the needs of young people and parents and begin to offer equitable access to transitional care programmes. The benchmarks offer a starting point for professionals seeking to improve transition through enabling the identification of gaps in services and providing a platform to share successful practice initiatives.
Extracting ground motion characteristics of distant earthquakes for mitigating displacement-sensitive equipment
Authors: Huang Shieh-Kung , Chen Chin-Tsun , Loh Chin-Hsiung , Chang Luh-Maan
Published: June 2018

Ground motions induced by strong, distant earthquakes may contain extremely long-period seismic waves that have a dominant period of up to 10 s. In general, these long-period seismic waves have small amplitudes and do not endanger the safety of building structures and civil infrastructures. However, they may bring unexpected shutdown of some vibration (displacement)-sensitive equipment (such as the wafer scanners in high-tech fabs), which can cause production loss. In this study, seismic waveforms collected from broadband seismometers distributed in Taiwan were used to investigate the ground motion characteristics of the collected distant earthquakes (with an epicenter distance of over 1000 km). The time-variant dominant frequency was extracted using moving window wavelet packet transform to monitor significant long-period seismic waves from the preevent data of each seismic event. The slope of the Arias intensity and the slope index of the recorded seismic waves were also developed to detect the potential accumulation of vibration energy increasing with respect to time and amplitude. The proposed index was used to detect the features of significant distant earthquakes, and it provides a mechanism to prevent unexpected shutdown of displacement-sensitive equipment. Finally, the proposed approach is discussed in relation to the damage severity of high-tech fabs.
On animals and seas: menageries as representations of Yugoslav global and local space in the Cold War era
Authors: Vujosevic Tijana
Published: June 2018

Socialist Yugoslavia, a small country in Southeast Europe, was unique in two ways. One was that it was not part of the Eastern Block and developed its own brand of socialism – ‘socialist self-governance’. The other was that it was a European country which, through the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, associated itself with the recently decolonized countries of the so-called Third World and aspired to lead them. Interestingly, the worldliness of Yugoslavia and its uniqueness, respectively, were embodied in two menageries – the zoos of the Brioni archipelago in the Adriatic and Belje, a large hunting estate in the Pannonian Basin. Brioni, a veritable Yugoslav Noah’s Arc, was created by shipping animals from non-aligned countries as tokens of friendship and souvenirs of President Tito’s maritime expeditions to Asia and Africa. Belje was populated by what was understood as ‘autochthonous’ fauna and showcased Yugoslavia’s ecological and cultural uniqueness. This article examines how the two sites came to represent Yugoslavia’s global and local territory. It shows that the ways in which animals were collected, utilized and understood were closely connected to embodied political practices of the Cold War era. The menageries acquired a symbolic role, the article argues, because the relationships between animals and humans were deeply embedded in human political rituals and transactions of the age.
When the Party Decides: The Effects of Facial Competence and Dominance on Internal Nominations of Political Candidates
Authors: Laustsen Lasse , Petersen Michael Bang
Published: June 2018

The facial traits and appearance of political candidates have been found to predict election outcomes across countries with different electoral systems and institutions. Research over the last decade has provided two different versions of this overall conclusion. First and most thoroughly studied, candidates who from their mere faces are evaluated as more competent get more votes on Election Day. Second, recent research finds that the ideological leanings of candidates and the voters they cater to also matter: Right-wing and conservative candidates receive more votes if they look more dominant, while liberal candidates lose votes when looking dominant and masculine. In this article, we investigate whether these patterns extend to candidate selection and support within parties as determined by party organizations. We test this through an original combination of naive respondents’ trait ratings of candidates in Danish local elections and these candidates’ positions on the ballot as decided by nomination processes within local party organizations. The results strongly support that the conclusions in previous studies extend to dynamics within the party among party members: Danish local party organizations tend to nominate facially competent candidates at the top of the ballot regardless of their ideological leaning. Moreover, liberal and conservative parties position dominant-looking candidates significantly different on the ballot with liberal parties being less likely to assign facially dominant candidates to top ballot positions. These results add important new insights about the underlying psychological processes causing appearance-based voting and relate to the ongoing discussion about the quality of public opinion formation.
Public Reactions to Male Versus Female Terrorism: Experimental Evidence for the Male Warrior Hypothesis
Authors: Lindner Miriam
Published: June 2018

One of the most consistent findings in the domain of criminal justice is that female and male offenders are perceived differently, often resulting in milder sentencing of women compared to men. Although previous studies have sought to identify factors that shape public reactions to terrorism and support for harsh interrogation techniques in its aftermath, empirical studies on differential reactions to female (vs. male) terrorist violence remain scarce. Here, it is argued that the often-violent evolutionary history of our species has shaped the way in which we perceive and react to female (vs. male) terrorist violence. Based on the framework of coalitional psychology—and specifically, the male warrior hypothesis—the assumption is tested that terror-suspect sex, in interaction with other threat cues such as in- or out-group membership and size of coalition, affects support for interrogational torture. This prediction was tested by conducting a survey experiment on a nationally representative sample of 2,126 U.S. adults. Results demonstrated that terror-suspect sex significantly shapes reactions to and perceptions of terrorist violence. Further, nuanced responses based on respondent sex revealed that these associations were exclusively driven by male participants. Gender attitudes and mere punitiveness did not account for the findings, suggesting that male coalitional psychology is deeply ingrained and readily activated by cues implying intergroup conflict.
István Hont and political theory
Authors: Sagar Paul
Published: June 2018

This article explores the relevance of the work of Cambridge historian of political thought István Hont to contemporary political theory. Specifically, it suggests that Hont’s work can be of great help to the recent realist revival in political theory, in particular via its lending support to the account favoured by Bernard Williams, which has been a major source for recent realist work. The article seeks to make explicit the main political theoretic implications of Hont’s historically-focused work, which in their original formulations are not always easy to discern, as well as itself being a positive contribution to realist theorizing, moving beyond a merely negative critique of dominant moralist positions.
Collected Transatlantic Experience From the PERICLES Registry: Use of Chimney Grafts to Treat Post-EVAR Type Ia Endoleaks Shows Good Midterm Results
Authors: Ronchey Sonia , Fazzini Stefano , Scali Salvatore , Torsello Giovanni , Kubilis Paul , Veith Frank , Donas Konstantinos P. , Pecoraro Felice , Mangialardi Nicola
Published: June 2018

Purpose: The aim of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate the performance of the chimney (ch) technique in the treatment of type Ia endoleaks after standard endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: Between January 2008 and December 2014, 517 chEVAR procedures were performed in 13 US and European vascular centers (PERICLES registry). Thirty-nine patients (mean age 76.9±7.1 years; 33 men) were treated for persistent type Ia endoleak and had computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance angiography follow-up at >1 month. Endurant abdominal stent-grafts were used in the 20 cases. Single chimney graft placement was performed in 18 (46%) patients and multiple in 21 (54%). Overall, 70 visceral vessels were targeted for revascularization. Results: Technical success was achieved in 35 (89.7%) cases; 3 persistent type Ia endoleaks and 1 chimney graft occlusion were detected within the first 30 days. Thirty-day mortality was 2.6%. Two other deaths (not aneurysm related) occurred during a mean follow-up of 21.9 months (0.23–71.3). Primary patency of the chimney grafts was 94.3% at 36 months. In a subgroup analysis comparing Endurant to other stent-grafts, no significant differences were observed regarding persistent endoleak [1/20 (5%) vs 2/19 (11%), p=0.6] or reintervention [1/20 (5%) vs 0/19 (0%)]. Conclusion: The present series demonstrates that chEVAR in the treatment of post-EVAR type Ia endoleaks has satisfactory results independent of the abdominal and chimney graft combinations. Midterm results show that chEVAR is an effective method for treating type Ia endoleaks.
Safety and Feasibility of Intravascular Lithotripsy for Treatment of Below-the-Knee Arterial Stenoses
Authors: Brodmann Marianne , Holden Andrew , Zeller Thomas
Published: June 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of treating calcified infrapopliteal stenoses using an intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) system. Methods: The Disrupt BTK study was a prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter, feasibility, and safety trial that enrolled 20 patients (mean age 79.0±9.6 years; 14 men) at 3 participating sites ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02911623). Fifteen patients had Rutherford category 5 ischemia, and all patients had moderate to severe below-the-knee arterial calcification. Patients were treated with the Shockwave Medical Peripheral IVL System and followed for 30 days. The primary safety endpoint was a composite of major adverse events through 30 days defined as death, myocardial infarction, need for emergency surgical revascularization of the target limb, or amputation of the target limb. The primary effectiveness outcome was acute reduction in the percent diameter stenosis. Results: IVL catheter delivery was successful in 19 patients. The composite of major adverse events at 30 days was 0%. The acute reduction in percent diameter stenosis of target lesions was 46.5%. All patients achieved residual diameter stenosis ≤50%. Vascular complications were minimal with only 1 type B dissection reported and 2 stents placed. None of the subjects experienced thrombus formation, abrupt closure, distal embolization, or perforation. There were no device-related complications. Conclusion: The early results of this pilot study demonstrated that calcified, stenotic infrapopliteal arteries can be safely and successfully treated with intravascular lithotripsy.
Professor William Wayne Babcock (1872-1963) and His Innovations in Surgery
Authors: Laios Konstantinos
Published: June 2018

Professor William Wayne Babcock (1872-1963) is considered as a leading figure of American surgery during early 20th century. He introduced many innovative surgical techniques such as Babcock operation for the treatment of varicose veins, the Babcock-Bacon operation for the treatment of cancer of the rectum and sigmoid colon preserving anal sphincters, the “soup bone” cranioplasty technique, and the nerve disassociation technique for the relief of certain forms of paralysis or parasthesia due to injury or inflammation. He invented many surgical instruments such as Babcock forceps, which is widely used in everyday surgical practice, the Babcock probe, and also sump drain and lamp chimney sump drain, which also bear his name. In 1947, he received the Master Surgeon Award from the International College of Physicians and Surgeons and in 1954 the American Medical Association presented him with the Distinguished Service Medal.
Blood flow maintenance by cardiac massage during cardiopulmonary resuscitation: Classical theories, newer hypotheses, and clinical utility of mechanical devices
Authors: Cipani Simone , Bartolozzi Carlo , Ballo Piercarlo , Sarti Armando
Published: June 2018

The mechanisms by which closed chest cardiac massage produces and maintains blood flow during cardiopulmonary resuscitation are still debated. To date, two main theories exist: the “cardiac pump”, which assumes that blood flow is driven by direct cardiac compression and the “chest pump”, which hypothesizes that blood flow is caused by changes in intrathoracic pressure. Newer hypotheses including the “atrial pump”, the “lung pump”, and the “respiratory pump” were also proposed. We reviewed studies supporting these different theories as well as the clinical evidences on the utility of mechanical devices proposed to optimize cardiopulmonary resuscitation, in view of their pathophysiological assumptions with regard to the underlying theory. On the basis of current evidence, a single theory is probably not sufficient to explain how cardiac massage produces blood flow. This suggests that different simultaneous mechanism might be involved. The relative importance of these mechanisms depends on several factors, including delay from collapse to starting of resuscitation, compression force and rate, body habitus, airway pressure, and presenting electrocardiogram. The complexity of the physiologic events occurring during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, together with the need of adequate training for a correct and prompt utilization of mechanical devices, might also partially explain the disappointing results of these devices in most clinical studies.
The meningeal and choroidal infiltration routes for leukocytes in stroke
Authors: Benakis Corinne , Llovera Gemma , Liesz Arthur
Published: June 2018

Stroke is a major health burden as it is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Blood flow restoration, through thrombolysis or endovascular thrombectomy, is the only effective treatment but is restricted to a limited proportion of patients due to time window constraint and accessibility to technology. Over the past two decades, research has investigated the basic mechanisms that lead to neuronal death following cerebral ischemia. However, the use of neuroprotective paradigms in stroke has been marked by failure in translation from experimental research to clinical practice. In the past few years, much attention has focused on the immune response to acute cerebral ischemia as a major factor to the development of brain lesions and neurological deficits. Key inflammatory processes after stroke include the activation of resident glial cells as well as the invasion of circulating leukocytes. Recent research on anti-inflammatory strategies for stroke has focused on limiting the transendothelial migration of peripheral immune cells from the compromised vasculature into the brain parenchyma. However, recent trials testing the blockage of cerebral leukocyte infiltration in patients reported inconsistent results. This emphasizes the need to better scrutinize how immune cells are regulated at the blood–brain interface and enter the brain parenchyma, and particularly to also consider alternative cerebral infiltration routes for leukocytes, including the meninges and the choroid plexus. Understanding how immune cells migrate to the brain via these alternative pathways has the potential to develop more effective approaches for anti-inflammatory stroke therapies.