bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equatorial Waves and the Skill of NCEP and ECMWF Numerical Weather Prediction Systems
Authors: Dias Juliana , Gehne Maria , Kiladis George N. , Sakaeda Naoko , Bechtold Peter , Haiden Thomas
Published: April 2018

Despite decades of research on the role of moist convective processes in large-scale tropical dynamics, tropical forecast skill in operational models is still deficient when compared to the extratropics, even at short lead times. Here we compare tropical and Northern Hemisphere (NH) forecast skill for quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) in the NCEP Global Forecast System (GFS) and ECMWF Integrated Forecast System (IFS) during January 2015–March 2016. Results reveal that, in general, initial conditions are reasonably well estimated in both forecast systems, as indicated by relatively good skill scores for the 6–24-h forecasts. However, overall, tropical QPF forecasts in both systems are not considered useful by typical metrics much beyond 4 days. To quantify the relationship between QPF and dynamical skill, space–time spectra and coherence of rainfall and divergence fields are calculated. It is shown that while tropical variability is too weak in both models, the IFS is more skillful in propagating tropical waves for longer lead times. In agreement with past studies demonstrating that extratropical skill is partially drawn from the tropics, a comparison of daily skill in the tropics versus NH suggests that in both models NH forecast skill at lead times beyond day 3 is enhanced by tropical skill in the first couple of days. As shown in previous work, this study indicates that the differences in physics used in each system, in particular, how moist convective processes are coupled to the large-scale flow through these parameterizations, appear as a major source of tropical forecast errors.
Alternative Action Organizations: Social Solidarity or Political Advocacy?
Authors: Giugni Marco , Grasso Maria
Published: April 2018

This article investigates the involvement of alternative action organizations in three forms of political advocacy in an attempt to gauge their degree of politicization. These forms can be understood as representing three different ways of making political claims: by raising public awareness with respect to a given cause or issue, by trying to influence the policy maker through “insider” lobbying activities, and by protesting in the streets as “outsiders.” Our findings show strong cross-national variations in all three forms of political activities, although not always following a consistent pattern. They also suggest that there is a relationship between the severity of the economic crisis and the form of advocacy. Most important, our analysis suggests that the politicization of alternative action organizations depends both on certain internal characteristics such as their degree of formalization and professionalization, as well as their thematic focus, and the scope of their activities, and on the broader context in terms of economic crisis, austerity policies, and political opportunities. As regards the latter, we find an impact especially on lobbying and protesting.
Polarization-Dependent Atomic Force Microscopy–Infrared Spectroscopy (AFM-IR): Infrared Nanopolarimetric Analysis of Structure and Anisotropy of Thin Films and Surfaces
Authors: Hinrichs Karsten , Shaykhutdinov Timur
Published: April 2018

Infrared techniques enable nondestructive and label-free studies of thin films with high chemical and structural contrast. In this work, we review recent progress and perspectives in the nanoscale analysis of anisotropic materials using an extended version of the atomic force microscopy–infrared (AFM-IR) technique. This advanced photothermal technique, includes polarization control of the incoming light and bridges the gap in IR spectroscopic analysis of local anisotropic material properties. Such local anisotropy occurs in a wide range of materials during molecular nucleation, aggregation, and crystallization processes. However, analysis of the anisotropy in morphology and structure can be experimentally and theoretically demanding as it is related to order and disorder processes in ranges from nanoscopic to macroscopic length scales, depending on preparation and environmental conditions. In this context IR techniques can significantly assist as IR spectra can be interpreted in the framework of optical models and numerical calculations with respect to both, the present chemical conditions as well as the micro- and nanostructure. With these extraordinary analytic possibilities, the advanced AFM-IR approach is an essential puzzle piece in direction to connect nanoscale and macroscale anisotropic thin film properties experimentally. In this review, we highlight the analytic possibilities of AFM-IR for studies on nanoscale anisotropy with a set of examples for polymer, plasmonic, and polaritonic films, as well as aggregates of large molecules and proteins.
Factors affecting occupational therapists’ decision to join their regional professional association
Authors: Reyes Angelica N. , Brown Cary A.
Published: April 2018

Background.

Voluntary occupational therapy organizations fill an important role. However, recruitment and retention can be problematic. Little is known about factors influencing occupational therapists to join/maintain membership in professional associations.

Purpose.

This study investigated factors influencing occupational therapists’ decision to join/remain members of their association.

Method.

An electronic survey was carried out and data were analyzed using SPSS software and manual categorization of open-ended comments.

Findings.

Two hundred and fifty-four therapists responded. Generation of new ideas, opportunities for professional development, self-improvement, maintenance of standards, improvement of the profession, and discounts on equipment/educational opportunities were significant factors in deciding to join the organization. The factors perceived as priorities varied in relation to participants’ year of graduation.

Implications.

More-customized strategies, reflecting priorities that vary during a therapist’s career path, may need to be employed to best address recruitment and retention across the range of therapists’ needs and goals.
The effectiveness of a theory-based drama intervention in preventing illegal drug use among students aged 14–15 years in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Su-Fei , Zheng Wan-Ling , Liao Jung-Yu , Huang Chiu-Mieh , Lin Tsung-Yi , Guo Jong-Long
Published: April 2018

Objective:

Age of initiation of drug use is closely associated with the risk of developing drug dependence or abuse. Effective programmes are needed to prevent adolescents from using drugs at an early age. The aim of this intervention programme was to prevent adolescents from using illegal drugs by using drama in education (DIE) to convey a universal prevention strategy.

Method:

We recruited 65 children aged 14–15 years from two junior high schools and assigned them to experimental ( n = 34) and comparison ( n = 31) groups. The experimental group attended six 45-minute sessions of a DIE preventive programme. The comparison group received traditional didactic teaching. We used a generalised estimating equation (GEE) to analyse the data.

Results:

GEE analysis revealed that the experimental group showed significant improvements in attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and drug-free intentions compared with counterparts in the comparison group. Student feedback indicated that DIE method can contribute to the prevention of illegal drug use.

Conclusion:

Applying DIE method to a theory-based drug prevention programme offers a promising way of increasing the intention to not use illegal drugs among students aged 14–15 years.
A trickle-down model of task and development i-deals
Authors: Rofcanin Yasin , Las Heras Mireia , Bal P Matthijs , Van der Heijden Beatrice IJM , Taser Erdogan Didem
Published: April 2018

In today’s competitive landscape, employees increasingly negotiate idiosyncratic deals (i-deals), referring to personalized work arrangements that address recipients’ unique work needs and preferences. While i-deals unfold in a dyadic context between subordinates and their managers, the consequences of i-deals concern everyone including co-workers and the organization. Focusing on task and development i-deals, we propose a trickle-down model to explore whether and how organizations benefit from i-deals. First, we argue that managers’ task and development i-deals cascade down to their subordinates, leading them to have similar i-deals with downstream consequences for co-workers and the organization. Furthermore, we propose that effective implementation of task and development i-deals are context-specific: we integrate the role of managers’ servant leadership as a boundary condition to explore the association between managers’ and subordinates’ task and development i-deals. We also integrate subordinates’ prosocial motives to explore the association between subordinates’ task and development i-deals and their work outcomes. We draw on work adjustment, social learning and social information processing theories to study our proposed associations. The results of a matched employee–manager dataset collected in the Philippines support our hypothesized model. This study contributes to i-deals research by: (1) testing whether and how task and development i-deals can be mutually beneficial for all the involved parties; and (2) revealing how the context, at the individual level, explains how and when task and development i-deals can best be implemented in workplaces. This study highlights that individualization of HR practices need not be a zero-sum game.
Buddhism-based charity, philanthropy, and social work: A lesson from Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Huong T , Nguyen Trang T , Reynolds Jerry F
Published: April 2018

Private and public social services, including social work centers, are limited to disadvantaged Vietnamese people, such as orphans and people with HIV/AIDS. Buddhism-based organizations (BBOs) have been acknowledged as an avenue to extend social services in Vietnam. This article reviews the social service system and BBOs in Vietnam using secondary data and findings from an empirical study on Buddhist charitable giving. A proposed model linking BBOs to social work centers seeks to improve the efficacy and effectiveness of service delivery.
Sanity and Friendship: The Therapeutic Element of Residential Living
Authors: Thompson Michael Guy
Published: April 2018

In this article, I set out to describe my 7-year apprenticeship with R. D. Laing in London, between 1973 and 1980, 4 of those year which comprised my living in one of Laing’s post-Kingsley Hall houses, Portland Road. My goal is to use the metaphor of friendship to explain how living in a house with no ostensible treatment or therapy can engender a healing experience for the people living in that house, many of whom would be diagnosed as schizophrenic if admitted to mental hospital. Though this particular example of this concept is located in a residential living situation, I believe that it holds much broader application, including individual psychotherapy.
Judgmental Standard Setting: The Development of Objective Content and Performance Standards for Secondary-Level Solo Instrumental Music Assessment
Authors: Wesolowski Brian C. , Athanas Myriam I. , Burton Jovan S. , Edwards Andrew S. , Edwards Kinsey E. , Goins Quentin R. , Irby Amanda H. , Johns Paul M. , Musselwhite Dorothy J. , Parido Brian T. , Sorrell Gary W. , Thompson Jonathan E.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to describe the development of content and performance standards for a rubric to evaluate secondary-level solo instrumental music performance using a modified bookmark standard setting procedure. The research questions that guided this study include (1) What are the psychometric qualities of a rubric to evaluate secondary-level solo instrumental music performance? (2) What is the quality of ratings obtained for the standard-setting panel of subject matter expert judges? (3) What cut scores best categorize secondary-level solo instrumental performances into four performance levels across the latent performance achievement variable? and (4) What content mastery of items best categorizes achievement in secondary-level solo music performance at each of the four performance levels? A panel of eight subject matter experts participated in the study. A 30-item rubric was used to collect the judging panel’s observed responses. The collected responses were transformed to linear measures using the multifaceted Rasch partial credit model. The bookmark procedure resulted in the setting of three cut points representing minimum pass levels on a latent continuum differentiating between four performance achievement levels (rudimentary, emerging, proficient, and exemplary) with clearly defined content standards. Implications for opportunity to learn are discussed.
Tree-Related Injuries Associated With Response and Recovery From Hurricane Sandy, New Jersey, 2011-2014
Authors: Marshall Elizabeth G. , Lu Shou-En , Williams Abimbola O. , Lefkowitz Daniel , Borjan Marija
Published: April 2018

Objectives:

Extreme weather events require extensive tree removal and disposal, tasks associated with severe injury risks among workers and residents. To help understand the risks of such activities, we evaluated the impact of a large and destructive storm (Hurricane Sandy in 2012) on the incidence of tree-related injuries.

Methods:

We searched chief-complaint text fields for patients aged 18-65 from 2011-2014 emergency department visit records submitted by New Jersey hospitals through the state-based syndromic surveillance system. Tree-related keywords (eg, saw, branch, wood chip, woodchip, tree) identified possible injuries that we then reviewed to exclude unrelated cases and classify mechanisms of tree-related injury. We used Poisson regression analysis to evaluate changes in the rates of probable tree-related injuries, adjusting for total emergency department visits and seasonal variation.

Results:

We identified 698 probable tree-related injuries from 2011-2014 among patients aged 18-65, including 104 (14.9%) falls, 241 (34.5%) machine-related injuries, 311 (44.6%) struck-by injuries, and 42 (6.0%) other tree-related injuries. Tree-related injuries increased significantly in the quarter immediately after Hurricane Sandy (November 2012–January 2013) compared with the same quarter the year before (rate ratio [RR] = 1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-2.47) and the year after (RR = 2.47; 95% CI, 1.62-3.78) Hurricane Sandy, especially for struck-by injuries compared with the year before (RR = 2.74; 95% CI, 1.47-5.12) and the year after (RR = 4.17; 95% CI, 2.09-8.32) Hurricane Sandy. More than one-third of the injuries (33.4%) involved chainsaws.

Conclusions:

A major hurricane was associated with an increase in tree-related injuries in emergency departments, especially for mechanisms consistent with handling downed and damaged trees. Further research should confirm these findings and evaluate opportunities for preventing tree-related injuries.
Fostering the Sociopolitical Development of African American and Latinx Adolescents to Analyze and Challenge Racial and Economic Inequality
Authors: Seider Scott , Kelly Lauren , Clark Shelby , Jennett Pauline , El-Amin Aaliyah , Graves Daren , Soutter Madora , Malhotra Saira , Cabral Melanie
Published: April 2018

Sociopolitical development refers to the processes by which an individual acquires the knowledge, skills, and commitment to analyze and challenge oppressive social forces. A growing body of scholarship reports that high levels of sociopolitical development are predictive in adolescents of a number of key outcomes including resilience and civic engagement. The present study explored the role that urban secondary schools can play in fostering adolescents’ sociopolitical development through a longitudinal, mixed-methods investigation of more than 400 adolescents attending “progressive” and “no-excuses” high schools. Analyses revealed that, on average, students attending progressive high schools demonstrated meaningful growth in their ability to critically analyze racial and economic inequality, while students attending no-excuses high schools demonstrated meaningful growth in their motivation to challenge these inequities through activism. Qualitative interviews offered insight into youth’s perceptions of the programming and practices at their respective schools that contributed to their sociopolitical development.
Using heat-treated starch to modify the surface of biochar and improve the tensile properties of biochar-filled styrene–butadiene rubber composites
Authors: Peterson Steven C , Kim Sanghoon
Published: April 2018

Heat-treated starch (HTS) is a renewable material that can be used to modify the surface chemistry of small particles. In this work, HTS was used to coat hydrophilic biochar particles in order to make them more hydrophobic. Then, when added as filler to hydrophobic styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR), the coated biochar dispersed more easily and had enhanced filler–matrix interactions, which were reflected in the tensile properties of the final composites. Biochar particles modified with 5% (weight) HTS showed increases of 59% in the ultimate tensile strength, 49% in elongation percentage, and 79% in fracture toughness of SBR composites compared to unmodified biochar particles. This shows that HTS can be used to improve the tensile properties of composites filled with biochar and potentially other hydrophilic filler materials.
The effect of polyurethane and carnauba wax on the mechanical and physicochemical properties of acrylonitrile butadiene nitrile rubber coating working gloves
Authors: Düşünceli Necmi , Akyüz Lalehan , Şahin Necmettin , Duru Hatice
Published: April 2018

In this study, the effect of polyurethane (PU) and carnauba wax (CW) on the mechanical and physicochemical properties of acrylonitrile butadiene nitrile rubber coating gloves was investigated. Thermal decomposition and morphological characterizations were carried out using Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was done to determine the chemical interactions between NBR and PU in the polymer matrix. After the vulcanization of NBR, including PU and CW, thermal stability was increased. The spectrums of FTIR showed that carboxyl groups of NBR were linked to the PU to form stable complexes between polymeric chains via H-bonding. SEM images showed that because CW acted as a dispersant for the colloidal particles, the surface appeared smooth compared with the non-containing PU/CW samples. Tensile and tear strength and abrasion resistance tests were conducted using the specimens of vulcanized NBR including PU/CW under uniaxial loading. Test specimens were prepared using hydraulic mold according to EN 388 standards. Cross-head speeds were chosen as 100 mm min−1. The chemical and morphological changes due to PU/CW had no significant effects on the macro-mechanical responses of the tensile and tear strength. However, it was obviously determined that the abrasion resistance was enhanced by the increase in the amount of CW.
Microwave absorption of polymer nanocomposites on the base high-density polyethylene and magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Ramazanov MA , Hajiyeva FV , Maharramov AM , Mamedov HM
Published: April 2018

In this article, we report about the synthesis of magnetic polymer nanocomposites comprising magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles in a polyethylene (PE) matrix. The structure and composition of nanocomposite materials using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy have been studied. It has been defined that the agglomeration of nanoparticles does not occur, by increasing the volume content of nanoparticles up to 60%, and Fe3O4 nanoparticles act out like single-domain particles. It has also been revealed that nanocomposites based on PE + Fe3O4 with nanoparticle content in a polymer matrix up to 60% behave like superparamagnetic particles. It has also been revealed that the PE + Fe3O4-based nanocomposites effectively absorb the electromagnetic waves in the high frequency range of 0.1–30 GHz. It is shown that the properties of ultrahigh electromagnetic waves can be varied by varying the thickness of the nanocomposite films and the concentration of Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Psychological strains and psychological distress among Chinese rural migrant workers
Authors: Ren Shuzheng , Zhang Jie , Hennessy Dwight A
Published: April 2018

This research note reports on a study that examined the psychological strains among migrant workers in China, and the potential negative life impact of these strains. It was hypothesized that psychological strains, resulting from social and psychological conflicts (value strain, aspiration strain, deprivation strain and coping strain), would be associated with greater psychological distress. Most of the sampled migrant workers experienced at least one of four types of strain. Independently, greater levels of all four types of strain were related to elevated self-reported psychological distress. Regression analyses showed that coping strain was the strongest predictor of psychological distress, whereas deprivation strain was not predictive when other types of strain were simultaneously considered. It is concluded that further research regarding the combined impact of social and personal factors in impacting both healthy and unhealthy psychological outcomes within the population of migrant workers in China is needed.
Evidence for dose and dose rate effects in human and animal radiation studies
Authors: Little M.P.
Published: April 2018

For stochastic effects such as cancer, linear-quadratic models of dose are often used to extrapolate from the experience of the Japanese atomic bomb survivors to estimate risks from low doses and low dose rates. The low dose extrapolation factor (LDEF), which consists of the ratio of the low dose slope (as derived via fitting a linear-quadratic model) to the slope of the straight line fitted to a specific dose range, is used to derive the degree of overestimation (if LDEF > 1) or underestimation (if LDEF < 1) of low dose risk by linear extrapolation from effects at higher doses. Likewise, a dose rate extrapolation factor (DREF) can be defined, consisting of the ratio of the low dose slopes at high and low dose rates. This paper reviews a variety of human and animal data for cancer and non-cancer endpoints to assess evidence for curvature in the dose response (i.e. LDEF) and modifications of the dose response by dose rate (i.e. DREF). The JANUS mouse data imply that LDEF is approximately 0.2–0.8 and DREF is approximately 1.2–2.3 for many tumours following gamma exposure, with corresponding figures of approximately 0.1–0.9 and 0.0–0.2 following neutron exposure. This paper also cursorily reviews human data which allow direct estimates of low dose and low dose rate risk.
Multi-modal imaging for dose planning and its benefits: the paradigm of head and neck tumours
Authors: Grégoire V.
Published: April 2018

The ultimate goal of any radiotherapy is to eradicate the disease without inflicting damage on the normal tissues surrounding the tumours, which could be responsible for late treatment morbidity. To achieve this objective, the first step is to precisely select and delineate the target volumes to which a given dose will be prescribed. This step requires the use of multi-modal images from clinical examination to anatomical and molecular images. Imaging examination will be used not only to delineate the boundaries of the tumour volume, but also to assess tumour heterogeneity and, possibly, to guide a heterogeneous dose prescription (i.e. the so-called ‘dose painting’ approach). Last, re-imaging the patient during treatment to assess variation of the tumour volume during radiotherapy may also be performed in the framework of adaptive treatment. Over the last decade, a lot of information has been gathered on the use of multi-modal imaging for dose planning, and its potential and technical difficulties have been identified. During the lecture, the speaker will review the state-of-the-art of multi-imaging for treatment, using head and neck tumours as a paradigm, emphasising what should be considered as routine practice and what should still be viewed as research questions.

© 2018 ICRP. Published by SAGE.
Effectiveness of virtual reality training for balance and gait rehabilitation in people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Casuso-Holgado María Jesús , Martín-Valero Rocío , Carazo Ana F , Medrano-Sánchez Esther M. , Cortés-Vega M. Dolores , Montero-Bancalero Francisco José
Published: April 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the evidence for the use of virtual reality to treat balance and gait impairments in multiple sclerosis rehabilitation.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized clinical trials.

Methods:

An electronic search was conducted using the following databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and (CINHAL). A quality assessment was performed using the PEDro scale. The data were pooled and a meta-analysis was completed. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) PRISMA guideline statement. It was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42016049360).

Results:

A total of 11 studies were included. The data were pooled, allowing meta-analysis of seven outcomes of interest. A total of 466 participants clinically diagnosed with multiple sclerosis were analysed. Results showed that virtual reality balance training is more effective than no intervention for postural control improvement (standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.64; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −1.05, −0.24; P = 0.002). However, significant overall effect was not showed when compared with conventional training (SMD = −0.04; 95% CI = −0.70, 0.62; P = 0.90). Inconclusive results were also observed for gait rehabilitation.

Conclusion:

Virtual reality training could be considered at least as effective as conventional training and more effective than no intervention to treat balance and gait impairments in multiple sclerosis rehabilitation.
Paris-Lille-3D: A large and high-quality ground-truth urban point cloud dataset for automatic segmentation and classification
Authors: Roynard Xavier , Deschaud Jean-Emmanuel , Goulette François
Published: April 2018

This paper introduces a new urban point cloud dataset for automatic segmentation and classification acquired by mobile laser scanning (MLS). We describe how the dataset is obtained from acquisition to post-processing and labeling. This dataset can be used to train pointwise classification algorithms; however, given that a great attention has been paid to the split between the different objects, this dataset can also be used to train the detection and segmentation of objects. The dataset consists of around [Formula: see text] of MLS point cloud acquired in two cities. The number of points and range of classes mean that it can be used to train deep-learning methods. In addition, we show some results of automatic segmentation and classification. The dataset is available at: http://caor-mines-paristech.fr/fr/paris-lille-3d-dataset/ .
Revelation, then Response
Authors: Long Gregory B.
Published: April 2018

Children’s ministry leaders who evaluate which curriculum to use for their Sunday school quickly discern vast differences in curriculum design philosophy. In spite of calls for integration, the debate between content-centered and learner-centered children’s Sunday school curricula has not been settled. This article examines a foundational doctrine of the Reformation, the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, in order to apply it to the design and evaluation of children’s Sunday school curricula. After briefly describing the meaning of Sola Scriptura, the article details the implications of Sola Scriptura for children’s Sunday school curriculum design. It then offers an evaluative grid for children’s ministry leaders to use when evaluating curriculum.
Exploring the Predictors of Emergency Department Triage Acuity Assignment in Patients With Sepsis
Authors: Petruniak Leon , El-Masri Maher , Fox-Wasylyshyn Susan
Published: April 2018

Background and purpose

Evidence suggests that septic patients, who require prompt medical attention, may be undertriaged, resulting in delayed treatment. The purpose of this study was to examine patient and contextual variables that contribute to high- versus low-acuity triage classification of patients with sepsis.

Methods

Data were abstracted from the medical records of 154 adult patients with sepsis admitted to hospital through a Canadian Emergency Department. Logistic regression was used to explore the predictors of triage classification.

Results

Language barriers or chronic cognitive impairment (odds ratio 5.7; 95% confidence interval 2.15, 15.01), acute confusion (odds ratio 3.4; confidence interval 1.3, 8.2), unwell appearance (odds ratio 3.4; 95% confidence interval 1.7, 7.0), and hypotension (odds ratio 0.98; confidence interval 0.96, 1.0) were predictive of higher acuity classification. Temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and contextual factors were not related to triage classification.

Conclusions

Several patient-related factors were related to triage classification. However, the finding that temperature and heart and respiratory rates were not related to triage classification was troubling. Our findings point to a need for enhanced education for triage nurses regarding the physiological indices of sepsis. The sensitivity of the Canadian Triage Assessment Scale, used in Canadian Emergency Rooms, also needs to be examined.
Just a Show? Effects of Televised Debates on Political Attitudes and Preferences in Slovakia
Authors: Baboš Pavol , Világi Aneta
Published: April 2018

The popularity of televised political debates is growing, attracting millions of viewers. However, evidence that such debates can shift voters’ attitudes is mixed and the impact on voters’ preference is also mixed. In addition, the evidence comes mostly from presidential elections in the United States and almost exclusively from established democracies. A call for comparative research in new democracies has been made several times. Our research answers the call and contributes to this debate by comparing two experimental studies based on first-order national elections and second-order European Parliament elections in Slovakia. To our knowledge, this is the first time such a study has been performed in a post-communist EU country. We employed a pre-test/post-test experimental design in a controlled environment with participants randomly assigned to both groups. The results show that debate exposure has a stronger effect on opinions about candidates’ leadership skills, credibility, and economic competence if the candidates were previously unknown. Familiarity with the candidates and pre-existing preferences also function as a block to preference change. Almost all of our findings are in line with previous research originating from Western contexts. Therefore, we conclude that the causal mechanism linking debate exposure to voters’ preference and attitudes in the post-communist context is similar to that in Western countries with long-term democratic traditions.
An Investigation of Youth Assets and Physical Activity and BMI Using a Longitudinal Cohort Design
Authors: Oman Roy F. , Clements-Nolle Kristen , Lu Minggen , Lensch Taylor
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

Substantial research has demonstrated that assets (eg, family communication, school connectedness) protect youth from participation in numerous risk behaviors. However, very few studies have explored the relationship between assets and positive health behaviors. This study investigated prospective associations among assets and physical activity (PA) and body mass index (BMI).

Design:

Longitudinal design with 5 waves of data collected annually over a 4-year period.

Setting:

Community-based setting with participants recruited via door-to-door canvasing of homes located in stratified (by race and income) randomly selected census tracts and blocks.

Participants:

Participants were 1111 youth (baseline mean age = 14.3 years [SD = 1.6]; 53% female; 40.6% white, 28.6% Hispanic, 24.4% black, 6.4% other) and their parents.

Measures:

Weekly participation in PA, BMI, and 14 youth assets representing multiple levels of influence (individual, family, and community).

Analysis:

Generalized linear mixed models assessed associations among the assets and PA and BMI over the 5 waves of data.

Results:

There was a significant and graded relationship between assets and weekly participation in PA. For example, at the community-asset level, PA minutes were higher among youth with 2 assets ( P = .006), 3 assets ( P = .0006), and 4 to 5 assets ( P < .0001) compared to youth with 0 to 1 assets. No effects were found for BMI.

Conclusion:

Asset-based health promotion programs for youth may promote positive health behaviors and prevent participation in risk behaviors.
Preferences for the format of text messages containing results of online screening for sexually transmitted infections: a service evaluation
Authors: Nadarzynski Tom , Scholfield Clare , Symonds Ynez , Graham Cynthia , Kidsley Sally
Published: April 2018

We conducted an online survey to examine the preferences for receiving a text message with results of a test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as part of online self-sampling service at Solent NHS Trust. Findings showed that if all tests were negative, participants would prefer to receive one text message. However, in the event of a positive result, a large majority (86%) would prefer to receive a separate text with the name of the STI for which the test was positive. Similarly, three-quarters (74%) of participants would prefer to receive multiple texts indicating which test was inconclusive and required an additional sample. The results of this survey support a change of practice to sending multiple text messages with the results of online self-sampling that include the names of STIs.
Sustainable Debt Policies of Indian State Governments
Authors: Renjith P.S. , Shanmugam K.R.
Published: April 2018

This study analyses the public debt sustainability issue of 20 major Indian states using the Bohn framework for panel data from 2005–2006 to 2014–2015. It employs regular panel data estimation procedures and the penalized spline (p-spline) technique. The results indicate that the primary balance of state governments responds positively to high public debt, so debt policies are successful in sustaining the debt situation of Indian states as a whole. However, at the individual level, debt is sustainable only in 12 states; in 8 states, debt is unsustainable and so these states require corrective action. These findings may be useful to policymakers and other stakeholders to formulate appropriate strategies to improve the debt situation of Indian states.

JEL Classification: E62, H63, H72, H740
When Leadership Powers Team Learning: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Koeslag-Kreunen Mieke , Van den Bossche Piet , Hoven Michael , Van der Klink Marcel , Gijselaers Wim
Published: April 2018

Team learning behavior is found to be one of the most effective team processes, as learning behavior at the team level (e.g., sharing, discussing, and reflecting on knowledge and actions) enables teams to adapt existing or develop new knowledge. Team leadership behavior is considered a critical accelerant for creating conditions that are essential to engage in team learning behavior, such as a safe environment. Yet despite the growing amount of research in team learning, this relationship remains unclear. Meta-analytic techniques were used to examine when team leadership behaviors support team learning behavior and how the task type moderates that relationship. Forty-three empirical studies reporting 92 effect sizes were synthesized. Analyses show that team leadership behavior explains 18% of the variance in team learning behavior. Furthermore, results indicate that person-focused leaders foster team learning for both adaptive and developmental tasks, whereas task-focused leaders influence team learning for adaptive tasks only.
Strength nature of two-dimensional woven nanofabrics under biaxial tension
Authors: Li Yinfeng , Lahkar Simanta , Wei Qingyuan , Qiao Pizhong , Ye Han
Published: April 2018

Woven nanostructures have been acknowledged as a platform for solar cells, supercapacitors, and sensors, making them especially of interest in the fields of materials sciences, nanotechnology, and renewable energy. By employing molecular dynamics simulations, the mechanical properties of two-dimensional woven nanofabrics under biaxial tension are evaluated. Two-dimensional woven nanostructures composed of graphene and graphyne nanoribbons are examined. Dynamic failure process of both graphene woven nanofabric and graphyne woven nanofabric with the same woven unit cell initiates at the edge of interlaced ribbons accompanied by the formation of cracks near the crossover location of yarns. Further stress analysis reveals that such failure mode is attributed to the compression between two overlaced ribbons and consequently their deformation under biaxial tension, which is sensitive to the lattice structure of nanoribbon as well as the density of yarns in fabric. Systemic comparisons between nanofabrics with different yarn width and interval show that the strength of nanofabric can be effectively controlled by tuning the space interval between nanoribbons. For nanofabrics with fixed large gap spacing, the strength of fabric does not change with the ribbon width, while the strength of nanofabric with small gap spacing decreases anomalously with the increase in yarn density. Such fabric strength dependency on gap spacing is the result of the stress concentration caused by the interlace compression. The outcomes of simulation suggest that the compacted arrangement of yarns in carbon woven nanofabric structures should be avoided to achieve high strength performance.
Unanticipated Contexts for Vulnerability: An Exploration of How Black College Men Made Meaning of a Research Interview Process Involving Sensitive Topics
Authors: McGowan Brian L.
Published: April 2018

There is an emerging call for empirical studies that examine the development of masculine identity among Black college men. However, the varied ways Black college men made meaning of participating in these research processes are virtually absent. The purpose of this particular inquiry is to offer insights into how 17 Black college men described their participation in a research study that explored sensitive topics involving their identity and interpersonal relationships with other men. Building rapport with Black college men through the research interview process was critical. Data analysis yielded five themes that illustrated how Black college men made meaning of their participation in a research process that employed both semi-structured and photo-elicitation interviews.
Achilles Pullout Strength After Open Calcaneoplasty for Haglund’s Syndrome
Authors: Pfeffer Glenn , Gonzalez Tyler , Zapf Matthew , Nelson Trevor J. , Metzger Melodie F.
Published: April 2018

Background:

Haglund’s syndrome involves a prominent posterior superior prominence of the calcaneus. If nonoperative management fails, operative management with calcaneoplasty is often needed. No study has assessed Achilles tendon pullout strength after an open calcaneoplasty for Haglund’s syndrome. The purpose of this study was to investigate those changes in a cadaveric model and provide objective data upon which to base postoperative recovery.

Methods:

Seven matched pairs of cadaveric specimens (mid-tibia to toes) were divided into 2 cohorts: (1) intact/untreated and (2) open resection. The open resection group was treated with an open calcaneoplasty through a posterior approach using a microsagittal saw. We compared Achilles pullout strength between the 2 groups through the use of a mechanical testing system. Specimens were then loaded to failure. Lateral radiographs were obtained before and after surgery to quantify bone removal. Outcome measures included height of bony resection, angle of bone resection, and load to failure.

Results:

The mean maximum pullout strength was significantly higher in the intact specimens (1300 ± 500 N) compared to the open resection group (740 ± 180 N) ( P < .01), representing a 45% reduction in pullout force in the open resection group. Pullout force was significantly correlated to bone mineral density (BMD) ( P < .05). Pullout force was negatively correlated to both radiographic measures of resection level, angle, and height, but neither of these were significant.

Conclusion:

Open calcaneoplasty demonstrated a significant weakness of the Achilles tendon insertion. Pullout strength of the Achilles was also positively correlated with BMD.

Clinical Relevance:

Biomechanical evidence presented above supports the practice of protected weightbearing and cautious return to activity after open calcaneoplasty for Haglund’s syndrome.
The Pharmacologic Role and Clinical Utility of PCSK9 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: White C. Michael
Published: April 2018

In addition to monoclonal antibodies against proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9), vaccines against PCSK9 and smaller molecule inhibitors as well as RNA inhibitors of PCSK9 production have been created. The monoclonal antibodies against PCSK9 and the PCSK9 RNA inhibitors can reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) by over 50%, non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, and increasing HDL. Although effective in several homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia patient types, PCSK9 inhibitors does not work in all patient types. Outcome trials show no effects on mortality but do show reductions in atherosclerotic events such as myocardial infarctions, strokes, and need for coronary revascularization. PCSK9 inhibitors have a very attractive safety profile with no significant elevations in measures of muscle or liver damage. The current and more advanced experimental agents all require subcutaneous dosing, and injection site reactions are among the most common adverse events. Therapy for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved agents is markedly expensive, and this is the primary barrier to utilization. However, it is possible to identify patients with a number needed to treat to prevent an atherosclerotic event low enough to render it cost-effective and one such factor is whether or not you require a 50% reduction in LDL in order to achieve your LDL goal.
Modeling and vibration control of an active horizontal seat suspension with pneumatic muscles
Authors: Maciejewski Igor , Krzyzynski Tomasz , Meyer Henning
Published: April 2018

In the following paper, the dynamic modeling of a horizontal seat suspension which uses pneumatic muscles for the purpose of active vibration control is discussed. An original control system structure is proposed in order to improve the vibro-isolation properties of a horizontal seat suspension system. The presented control system design is based on inverse models of the pneumatic muscles and the primary controller that calculates the desired active force. By using the configurable control algorithm developed in this paper, it is possible to achieve a significant reduction in vibrations transmitted into the human body with just a slight increasing of the suspension travel. The active seat shows improved performance over the passive system in the 1–10 Hz frequency range. The results presented in this paper are useful in selecting the horizontal vibration control system for improving the comfort of a drive.
Updated report on incidence of infusion-site reactions associated with peripheral intravenous administration of fosaprepitant
Authors: Chau Eric , Lundberg Jordan , Phillips Gary , Berger Michael , Wesolowski Robert
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Fosaprepitant (Emend®) is an antiemetic frequently used for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. We previously documented an overall 28.7% incidence of infusion-site reactions in patients receiving fosaprepitant via peripheral venous access. These data resulted in a practice change within our institution; fosaprepitant is administered in more dilute concentrations over 30 min to prevent these adverse events. This retrospective study explored the impact of this practice change on the incidence of infusion-site reactions.

Methods

Medical records of patients with cancer receiving intravenous fosaprepitant through a peripheral intravenous line were reviewed. The primary objective of this study was to compare the incidence of infusion-site reactions before the practice change to the incidence after the practice change. Data collection included demographics, fosaprepitant infusion information, and grading of reactions.

Results

Between September 2013 and December of 2013, charts of 122 patients receiving intravenous fosaprepitant through a peripheral line at the The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University were reviewed. We found a 5.74% incidence of infusion-site reactions which is significantly lower than the prechange incidence of 28.7% (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Infusion-site reactions were significantly reduced when fosaprepitant was diluted to 150 mg/250 ml and infused over 30 min. We recommend oncology pharmacists consider using the more dilute fosaprepitant preparation and 30 min infusion duration when administering via a peripheral intravenous line to improve patient tolerance.
Age-based ultrasonographic criteria for diagnosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease in Persian cats
Authors: Guerra Juliana M , Freitas Mariana F , Daniel Alexandre GT , Pellegrino Arine , Cardoso Natália C , de Castro Isac , Onuchic Luiz F , Cogliati Bruno
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to establish ultrasound criteria for the diagnosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in Persian cats.

Methods

Eighty-two Persian cats were assessed using renal ultrasound and genotyped for the C→A transversion in exon 29 of PKD1. The animals were also submitted to hematological characterization, serum biochemistry analyses and urinalysis.

Results

Age, sex and neutering status did not differ between ADPKD (n = 12) and non-ADPKD (n = 70) cats. After integrated molecular genetics/ultrasonographic analysis, the presence of at least one renal cyst was sufficient to establish a diagnosis of ADPKD in animals up to 15 months of age. Two or more cysts were required for diagnosis in cats aged 16–32 months, and at least three cysts warranted diagnosis of ADPKD in animals aged 33–49 months. Finally, four or more cysts led to diagnosis in cats aged 50–66 months. Although cats with ADPKD exhibited higher serum calcium levels than non-affected cats, hematological, urinalysis and other biochemical parameters did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusions and relevance

Integrated analyses of imaging and molecular genetics data enabled, for the first time, the establishment of age-based ultrasonographic criteria for the diagnosis of ADPKD in Persian cats. The development of imaging criteria is particularly relevant and useful in the clinical setting given the current limitations to access and the cost of molecular genetics-based diagnostic tests.