bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A mixed-methods study to identify factors associated with MenACWY vaccine uptake, barriers and motivations towards vaccination among undergraduate students
Authors: Trayner Kirsten MA , Anderson Niall , Cameron J Claire
Published: September 2018

Background:

In response to an outbreak of severe meningococcal disease caused by serogroup W, the UK introduced the meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) for adolescents and new university students as a control measure.

Objective:

To estimate MenACWY vaccine uptake and identify factors associated with uptake, barriers and motivations towards vaccination among university students.

Design:

Mixed methods including a cross-sectional survey, 7 interviews and 1 focus group.

Setting:

A Scottish university between April and May 2016.

Methods:

Inclusion criteria were <25 years and attending university for the first time (MenACWY eligible). All first-year undergraduates ( n = 5,808) were invited to take part in the survey via email, and qualitative participants were recruited through the survey. The final sample consisted of 768 students, representing 13% (768/5,808) of the target population.

Results:

MenACWY uptake among the sample was 71.5% (549/768). Older students (22–24 years) were less likely than younger students (18 years) to have been vaccinated [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.21; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.06–0.77], and male students were less likely to be vaccinated than female students (aOR = 0.667; 95% CI = 0.45–0.96). In comparison to international students, domestic students had a significantly higher odds of vaccination (aOR = 3.89; 95% CI = 2.64–5.72). Communication barriers were most frequently identified as reasons for non-vaccination. Most vaccination occurred before starting university (76.7%, 421/549), highlighting access barriers. Meningococcal disease knowledge was low; a significant association ( p < 0.001) was found between knowledge and vaccination uptake. Some participants were unaware of their vaccination history. They perceived meningococcal disease as severe, but disease risk as low. Key motivations were knowledge of the benefits of vaccines, influence of others and social responsibility.

Conclusion:

Students outside main UK-based, core age cohorts were under-immunised and focused efforts are needed to improve vaccination rates. Future student vaccination programmes could focus on raising awareness of the serious implications of meningococcal disease. Additional benefit may be gained from emphasising the benefits of vaccinations for society as a whole.
Queerying examples of contemporary South African short fiction
Authors: Murray Sally Ann
Published: September 2018

With a view to imagining the forms and foci of something that might be persuaded to manifest as post-2000 “queer South African short fiction”, I queery the possibilities of queerness as category of analysis. Using a necessarily limited, illustrative selection of stories, I discuss aspects of queer in relation to such issues as generic scope, the erotic, futurity, and queerings of the canon. The approach inclines towards queer as a deliberately blurred lens, hoping to enable not precise sightlines but an obliqueness that, in conjunction with the identifier “South African”, brings into view partial glimpses of possibility for queer understandings of local short fiction. This investigation of relationality between queer as sexuality and queer as a more broadly disruptive optic is speculative, and necessarily imprecise. The method is appropriate to thinking queerly about how to disorientate local short stories in their encounters with forms of the normative.
Higher Predictive Value Positive for MMA Than ACA MTM Eligibility Criteria Among Racial and Ethnic Minorities: An Observational Study
Authors: Qiao Yanru , Spivey Christina A. , Wang Junling , Shih Ya-Chen Tina , Wan Jim Y. , Kuhle Julie , Dagogo-Jack Samuel , Cushman William C. , Chisholm-Burns Marie A.
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to examine positive predictive value (PPV) of medication therapy management (MTM) eligibility criteria under Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) and Affordable Care Act (ACA) in identifying patients with medication utilization issues across racial and ethnic groups. The study analyzed Medicare data (2012-2013) for 2 213 594 beneficiaries. Medication utilization issues were determined based on medication utilization measures mostly developed by Pharmacy Quality Alliance. MMA was associated with higher PPV than ACA in identifying individuals with medication utilization issues among non-Hispanic blacks (blacks) and Hispanics than non-Hispanic whites (whites). For example, odds ratio for having medication utilization issues to whites when examining MMA in 2013 and ACA were 1.09 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04-1.15) among blacks, and 1.17 (95% CI = 1.10-1.24) among Hispanics, in the main analysis. Therefore, MMA was associated with 9% and 17% higher PPV than ACA in identifying patients with medication utilization issues among blacks and Hispanics, respectively, than whites.
The history of science and the history of bureaucratic knowledge: Saxon mining, circa 1770
Authors: Felten Sebastian
Published: September 2018

This article looks into mining in central Germany in the late eighteenth century as one area of highly charged exchange between (specific manifestations of early modern) science and the (early modern) state. It describes bureaucratic knowledge as socially distributed cognition by following the steps of a high-ranking official that led him to discover a rich silver ore deposit. Although this involved hybridization of practical/artisanal and theoretical/scientific knowledge, and knowers, the focus of this article is on purification or boundary work that took place when actors in and around the mines consciously contributed to different circuits of knowledge production. For the sake of analysis, the article suggests a way of opposing bureaucratic versus scientific knowledge production, even when the sites, actors involved in, and practices of that knowledge production were the same or similar. Whereas the science of the time invoked consensus among equals to conflate competing knowledge claims, bureaucracies did so by applying a hierarchy among ranked individuals.
An alternative antioxidant for sulfur-vulcanized natural rubber: Henna
Authors: Öncel Şehriban , Kurtoğlu Begüm , Karaağaç Bağdagül
Published: September 2018

Oxidative aging of natural rubber (NR) leads to the deterioration in the physical and mechanical properties. Using various antioxidants during compounding is a common way to improve the aging resistance of NR. The most widespread used antioxidants are phenolic and amine-based synthetic antioxidants and 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline in rubber industry. However, synthetic antioxidants cause some environmental problems during their production and tend to be replaced by natural alternatives. In this study, henna has been evaluated as a natural antioxidant in NR-based rubber compounds for efficient and conventional sulfur vulcanization systems. Performance of henna was evaluated in terms of rheological, mechanical, aging, and temperature scanning stress-relaxation properties of the compounds. It has been concluded that henna could be used as an alternative antioxidant for sulfur vulcanization of natural rubber matrix, compensating little deteriorations in vulcanizate properties. Short- and long-term performances of henna were also found to be related to vulcanization system.
High-intensity interval walking in combination with acute green tea extract supplementation reduces postprandial blood glucose concentrations in physically inactive participants
Authors: Bulmer Joseph M , McBain Thomas R , Peart Daniel J
Published: September 2018

Background:

Exercise and green tea supplementation have been shown to have the potential to improve postprandial blood glucose concentrations, but past interventions have not often investigated attainable and time effective exercise protocols.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of interval walking exercise and acute green tea extract supplementation on the glycaemic response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Method:

Twelve physically inactive participants (nine male, three female, age: 22 ± 1 years; body mass: 81.2 ± 16.3 kg; stature: 175.7 ± 9.6 cm; body mass index (in kg/m2): 26.2 ± 4.3) underwent a 2-h OGTT immediately following i) no intervention (REST), ii) placebo and exercise (EX-PLAC), iii) green tea extract supplementation and exercise (EX-GTE), in a random order. The walking exercise consisted of 6 × 1 min of brisk walking (7.92 ± 0.56 km/h) separated by 1 min of slower walking (4.8 km/h). Differences between groups were identified using magnitude-based inferences.

Results:

The EX-GTE intervention resulted in a ∼9% most likely beneficial effect on blood glucose area under the curve response to the OGTT (702.18 ± 76.90 mmol/L–1·120 min–1) compared with REST (775.30 ± 86.76 mmol/L–1·120 min–1), and a very likely beneficial effect compared with the EX-PLAC (772.04 ± 81.53 mmol/L–1·120 min–1).

Conclusion:

These data suggest that an EX-GTE intervention can reduce postprandial glucose concentrations in physically inactive individuals.
Use of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to treat severe combined calcium channel blocker and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor overdose
Authors: Haughey Ryan , Vernick William , Gutsche Jacob , Laudanski Krzysztof
Published: September 2018

Introduction:

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a commonly prescribed medication that, at toxic levels, are capable of causing severe refractory hypotension, hypoxic respiratory failure and cardiotoxicity. There is little evidence currently guiding the approach to managing CCB overdose, particularly when combined with other antihypertensive agents.

Case report:

We describe the use of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) in a previously healthy man following combined overdose with amlodipine and lisinopril in a suicide attempt. ECMO was used to provide oxygenation support, allowing for the amlodipine and lisinopril to be metabolized and cleared while also reducing ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) and avoiding the complications associated with venous-arterial (VA) ECMO, such as differential hypoxemia.

Conclusion:

Limited case reports suggesting the use of ECMO in CCB overdose have employed VA ECMO due to CCB-induced cardiotoxicity. We believe that, if cardiac function has been preserved, VV ECMO should be considered a viable treatment strategy for CCB and ACE-I overdose resulting in refractory hypoxemic respiratory failure.
Retaining foster carers during challenging times: the benefits of embedding reflective practice into the foster care role
Authors: Onions Caryn
Published: September 2018

Retaining high quality foster carers and helping them to manage the intense emotional impact of caring for young traumatised children is still a major challenge. While foster carer training helps in the short term, international findings suggest that training and support structures alone may not sustain foster carers when times get tough. This article considers the benefits of embedding reflective practice into the role of foster carers. It draws on a qualitative study of five foster carers and two birth mothers receiving specialist help whose children have experienced severe trauma, early neglect and/or abuse and who attend a residential special school for primary-aged children where staff reflective practice is at the core of its work. The carers of all new pupils during a 12-month period were interviewed at the start of placement and one year later and the emerging themes were identified. All of the foster carers reported that after the first year children were less violent and aggressive and more able to verbalise their feelings. Some also began to change their perception of their child’s difficulties. The birth parents also reported improvements but the focus of their concerns and details of the benefits were different. The article argues that in addition to training, all carers who look after severely traumatised children would benefit from regular opportunities to genuinely reflect on the impact that their caring role has on them and that their children’s development will be enhanced by the reduction in challenging behaviour and the risk of placement disruption. However, within the reflective process, different groups of carers will have their own particular concerns.
‘To another’s house’: the experiences of Muslim young people in foster care
Authors: Pitcher David , Jaffar Shabana
Published: September 2018

Cultural confusion is a common experience among children in foster care. But it can be especially severe for Muslims when their faith, traditional values and way of life are disrespected and when this is exacerbated by removal from familiar home environments. This article describes the experiences of young people affected by this and critically examines how their situation matches the definitions of good practice in agencies and professionals seeking to help them. Four issues emerged: the child’s confusion surrounding separation and moving to somewhere strange; identifying the right placement; intervening in a way that offers children future choices; and the ever-present risk of discrimination. In each of these situations, well-meaning and firmly established fostering practices can be insensitive to the needs and wishes of Muslim children. This confounds their understanding of their self, depresses their sense of social belonging and demands they adjust in order to survive. The article makes recommendations to support Muslim adolescents entering care and to improve the practice of the professionals and agencies responsible for them. The dearth of specialist therapeutic services is highlighted, along with suggestions for future research.
Safety Evaluation of Change in Posted Speed Limit from 65 to 70 mph on Rural Virginia Interstate System
Authors: Himes Scott , Gross Frank , Nichols Michael , Lockwood Mena
Published: September 2018

Effective July 1, 2010, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) increased the maximum posted speed limit on interstates and similar facilities from 65 to 70 mph, if recommended following an engineering study. As a result, VDOT performed engineering studies on selected rural interstates posted at 65 mph. By November 2010, VDOT had increased the speed limit from 65 to 70 mph for approximately 670 centerline miles of select rural interstates. This paper presents the results of an empirical Bayes before–after study into the safety and operational effects of the speed limit increase. The analysis focused on total, injury, run-off-road, and truck-related crashes. Comparison segments were used to develop annual adjustment factors, account for regional differences, and identify underlying crash trends in the period before the speed limit increase. At the aggregate level, the results indicated no increase in any of the focus crash types after the increase. Focusing on sites without other changes, the increased speed limit did not increase or decrease any of the crash types. The disaggregate analysis provided further insight into the circumstances in which the change in posted speed limit had more and less pronounced impacts; specifically, that segment type (base or interchange) influenced safety: interchange segments observed statistically significant increases in total, run-off-road, and truck-related crashes. The disaggregate analysis also showed that roadway improvements may help to offset the safety impact of increasing the posted speed limit.
‘We Were the Ones Really Doing Something About It’: Gender and Mobilisation against Factory Closure
Authors: Robertson Margaret , Clark Andy
Published: September 2018

Current understandings of worker mobilisation against factory closure and capital migration in Britain are dominated by the perspectives of male industrial workers. The narratives of displaced miners, shipbuilders and steel workers are prominent in the historiography and collective memories of deindustrialisation. There is considerably less understanding of the response of female manufacturing workers to these processes and the ways in which women mobilised in opposition to the free movement of capital. This article presents the testimony of Margaret Robertson, shop steward at the Lee Jeans factory in Greenock, Scotland, where the predominantly female workforce conducted a successful seven-month occupation in opposition to proposed closure beginning in February 1981. The contribution highlights the specific gendered challenges encountered by women workers. The occupation occurred in a period of accelerated factory closure in Britain, yet supporting female unionists resisting job loss was not a priority for the male-dominated union executive.
Characterization of chronic liver disease based on ultrasound images using the variants of grey-level difference matrix
Authors: Bharti Puja , Mittal Deepti , Ananthasivan Rupa
Published: September 2018

Chronic liver diseases are fifth leading cause of fatality in developing countries. Early diagnosis is important for timely treatment and to salvage life. Ultrasound imaging is frequently used to examine abnormalities of liver. However, ambiguity lies in visual interpretation of liver stages on ultrasound images. This difficult visualization problem can be solved by analysing extracted textural features from images. Grey-level difference matrix, a texture feature extraction method, can provide information about roughness of liver surface, sharpness of liver borders and echotexture of liver parenchyma. In this article, the behaviour of variants of grey-level difference matrix in characterizing liver stages is investigated. The texture feature sets are extracted by using variants of grey-level difference matrix based on two, three, five and seven neighbouring pixels. Thereafter, to take the advantage of complementary information from extracted feature sets, feature fusion schemes are implemented. In addition, hybrid feature selection (combination of ReliefF filter method and sequential forward selection wrapper method) is used to obtain optimal feature set in characterizing liver stages. Finally, a computer-aided system is designed with the optimal feature set to classify liver health in terms of normal, chronic liver, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma evolved over cirrhosis. In the proposed work, experiments are performed to (1) identify the best approximation of derivative (forward, central or backward); (2) analyse the performance of individual feature sets of variants of grey-level difference matrix; (3) obtain optimal feature set by exploiting the complementary information from variants of grey-level difference matrix and (4) analyse the performance of proposed method in comparison with existing feature extraction methods. These experiments are carried out on database of 754 segmented regions of interest formed by clinically acquired ultrasound images. The results show that classification accuracy of 94.5% is obtained by optimal feature set having complementary information from variants of grey-level difference matrix.
A comparison between scientists’ and communication scholars’ views about scientists’ public engagement activities
Authors: Yuan Shupei , Besley John C. , Dudo Anthony
Published: September 2018

This study investigated how communication scholars view scientists’ public engagement as well as differences between how these scholars and natural and physical scientists think about the topic. The study used surveys of authors who recently published in five journals related to science communication alongside surveys of scientists from three prominent professional science societies. The results suggest that communication scholars ( N = 362) shared some views with the scientists ( N = 307, 373, 372) regarding scientists’ performance, factors that influence engagement activities, and communication objectives, but potentially important differences were observed as well. Scientists have more positive beliefs about engagement norms and also rate their engagement efficacy relatively high. But communication scholars have higher expectations for online engagement amount. The findings address gaps in perceptions and performances from these two communities and suggest areas of potential emphasis for science communication training.
“Aliens” in the United States: A Collaborative Autoethnography of Foreign-Born Faculty
Authors: Cruz Joelle , McDonald James , Broadfoot Kirsten , Chuang Andy Kai-chun , Ganesh Shiv
Published: September 2018

We draw from our lived experiences as foreign workers in the U.S. academy to explore how foreign academic worker identity is constituted in the contemporary United States. We practice intersectionality by considering how our experiences of “foreignness” in the academy are intertwined with other markers of difference, including race, gender, sexuality, national origin, and age. We also draw from tenets of collaborative autoethnography, producing insight on three constitutive features of foreign worker identity through four narratives that draw from different genres in the autoethnographic tradition. The article highlights the value of collaborative autoethnography as a method of inquiry and reflection in organizational studies, provides a rare account of the ways in which intersectionality is negotiated in everyday life by foreign-born academics, and identifies features of the performance of foreign worker identity related to spatiality, presence, and absence.
Increased Early Revision Rate With the INFINITY Total Ankle Prosthesis
Authors: Cody Elizabeth A. , Taylor Michel A. , Nunley James A. , Parekh Selene G. , DeOrio James K.
Published: September 2018

Background:

A number of new 2-component total ankle arthroplasty systems that emphasize minimal bone resection have been introduced for which few clinical outcomes reports are available. Our aim was to identify the rate of early revision among patients receiving the 2-component INFINITY prosthesis.

Methods:

Patients from 2 prospectively collected databases at the authors’ institution were screened for inclusion in the present study. All patients who underwent a primary total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) with the INFINITY prosthesis and who were at least 1 year postoperative were included. A total of 159 ankles with a mean 20 months of follow up (range, 12-37) met these criteria. All surgeries were performed by 1 of 2 orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons with extensive experience in TAA. The primary outcome was the need for revision surgery, defined as removal of 1 or both metal components. Peri-implant lucency at most recent follow-up was a secondary outcome. Weightbearing radiographs at most recent follow-up were graded for lucency independently by 2 reviewers.

Results:

Sixteen ankles (10%) underwent revision at a mean 13 months postoperatively. The most common reasons for revision were symptomatic tibial component loosening and deep infection (6 patients each, 3.8%). Of the 108 ankles with retained components and at least 1 year of radiographic follow-up, 8 (7.4%) had global lucency around the tibial component suggestive of loosening at most recent follow-up.

Conclusions:

Our initial review of patients undergoing TAA with this new 2-component prosthesis demonstrates an elevated early revision rate due to tibial component loosening compared to other implant systems.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Early Identification and Connection to Services Among Urban Parents Who Have Low Income and Low-Literacy Skills
Authors: Gallagher Peggy A. , Greenberg Daphne , Campbell Jonathan M. , Stoneman Zolinda , Feinberg Iris Z.
Published: September 2018

Young children from parents with low income and low-literacy skills are often late in being diagnosed with developmental disabilities. To try to understand this phenomenon, we conducted six focus groups with 17 parents of low income with low-literacy skills living in an urban area who had children between 6 months and 4 years of age. Parents were asked how they access general information about child development and parenting resources. They were also probed about their experiences learning about their specific children’s development. Their feedback was also sought on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Learn the Signs Act Early materials. Results highlighted the resourcefulness of the parents to find information and the difficulties they had with printed information. Their focus group responses indicate the need for agencies to think more broadly about where to provide information for parents and the need to utilize easy-to-read printed materials.
Measuring Hotel Channel Mix: A DEA-BSC Model
Authors: Dolasinski Mary Jo , Roberts Chris , Zheng Tianshu
Published: September 2018

The hotel industry has experienced changes brought on by growth, customer expectations, and the proliferation in the use of e-commerce and online distribution channels. Future hotel success depends on how effectively hotel revenue managers are able to manage different booking channels to maximize hotel revenue. A Data Envelopment Analysis–Balanced Scorecard (DEA-BSC) model to measure efficiency of distribution channel mix using BSC results is presented. DEA-BSC was used because DEA-BSC incorporates multiple metrics simultaneously while traditional business models typically focus on one performance measure such as profit. Inputs for the model include the five distribution channels of C-Res/Voice, GDS, Brand.com , OTAs, and property/relationship sales. Output is the consolidated BSC average. The model was tested and results presented, demonstrating support for the usefulness of the model.
Group Video Self-Modeling to Improve the Classroom Transition Speeds for Elementary Students
Authors: McNiff Matthew T. , Maag John W. , Peterson Reece L.
Published: September 2018

Video self-modeling (VSM) has been an effective intervention for individuals with a variety of disabilities and behavioral issues. However, no studies have addressed the impact of VSM on behaviors that are displayed by groups of students. The purpose of the present study was to determine the efficacy of VSM to improve the speed with which students in an elementary classroom lined up and transitioned from one activity to another and whether group VSM had a differential impact on students who exhibited varying speeds of transitioning (i.e., fast, medium, or slow groups) during baseline. A multiple baseline design across behaviors was employed across groups. Visual analysis and calculated effect sizes indicated that group video self-modeling (GVSM) produced immediate gains in the speed with which the average performance of the three groups of students lined up and transitioned. Furthermore, students in both the medium and slow groups increased their speed to a level commensurate with that achieved by the fast group.
7/7: A reflexive re-evaluation of journalistic practice
Authors: Lashmar Paul
Published: September 2018

The suicide bombings of 7 July 2005 remain the most serious terror attacks in the United Kingdom to date in the so-called ‘war on terror’. Much has been published on the war on terror but few journalists have reflected on their practice post 9/11 and none on their domestic coverage of the 7/7 attacks. This article is written by a journalist who covered the London bombings for a UK national newspaper and more recently is a practitioner-academic. Using academic texts focusing on the domestic reporting of the war on terror as stimuli for scholarly reflection, this article reviews the author’s own coverage using reflexive practice and content analysis. This article places 7/7 in the continuum of reporting subsequent to 11 September 2001 (9/11) and issues discussed. Some 63 authored articles were considered from the period. Scholarly texts have proposed a range of concepts to analyse coverage from including political ritual, trauma, national wound and hegemony. This article concludes by noting that while many academic texts see coverage of terrorism as an elite discourse, dominated by political economy drivers and responding to events in a homogeneous reactivity, in practice, news organisations can have complex responses and journalists, agency in their coverage of major terrorism events.
A randomized trial of the efficacy and safety of azilsartan medoxomil combined with chlorthalidone
Authors: Weber Michael A , Sever Peter , Juhasz Attila , Roberts Andrew , Cao Charlie
Published: September 2018

Introduction:

We measured the effects of azilsartan medoxomil co-administered with chlorthalidone 25 mg in stage 2 hypertension.

Methods:

Azilsartan medoxomil 40 or 80 mg plus chlorthalidone were compared with placebo plus chlorthalidone once daily in a randomized, double-blind, 6-week trial. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in 24-hour mean systolic blood pressure by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring.

Results:

Patients ( N=551; mean age 59 years; 51.7% men) were randomly assigned to placebo plus chlorthalidone ( n=184), azilsartan medoxomil 40 mg plus chlorthalidone ( n=185), or azilsartan medoxomil 80 mg plus chlorthalidone ( n=182). Baseline systolic blood pressures were similar among groups. After 6 weeks, least squares mean (standard error) reductions with azilsartan medoxomil 40 mg and 80 mg plus chlorthalidone were similar in magnitude (−31.7 (1.0) and −31.3 (1.0) mmHg, respectively), but greater than chlorthalidone alone (−15.9 (1.0) mmHg). Hypotension and serum creatinine elevations were more frequent with azilsartan medoxomil plus chlorthalidone than chlorthalidone alone (reversed with drug discontinuation). Notably, plasma potassium reduction of 0.43 meq/L with chlorthalidone was attenuated to 0.13 and 0.05 meq/L by azilsartan medoxomil 40 mg and 80 mg, respectively.

Conclusion:

Azilsartan medoxomil 40 mg or 80 mg plus chlorthalidone 25 mg was significantly more efficacious than chlorthalidone alone in reducing blood pressure and was well tolerated. Clinicaltrial.gov , https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00591773 , NCT00591773
Flexible quasi-beta regression models for continuous bounded data
Authors: Bonat Wagner H , Petterle Ricardo R , Hinde John , Demétrio Clarice GB
Published: September 2018

We propose a flexible class of regression models for continuous bounded data based on second-moment assumptions. The mean structure is modelled by means of a link function and a linear predictor, while the mean and variance relationship has the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the mean, dispersion and power parameters respectively. The models are fitted by using an estimating function approach where the quasi-score and Pearson estimating functions are employed for the estimation of the regression and dispersion parameters respectively. The flexible quasi-beta regression model can automatically adapt to the underlying bounded data distribution by the estimation of the power parameter. Furthermore, the model can easily handle data with exact zeroes and ones in a unified way and has the Bernoulli mean and variance relationship as a limiting case. The computational implementation of the proposed model is fast, relying on a simple Newton scoring algorithm. Simulation studies, using datasets generated from simplex and beta regression models show that the estimating function estimators are unbiased and consistent for the regression coefficients. We illustrate the flexibility of the quasi-beta regression model to deal with bounded data with two examples. We provide an R implementation and the datasets as supplementary materials.
Revisiting the viability to allow dual-class share structure companies to list in the financial market of Hong Kong
Authors: Ho John Kong Shan
Published: September 2018

The request of Alibaba, China’s largest e-commerce company, to allow a self-selected group of its past and present management known as the ‘partners’ the right to nominate a majority of the directors in its negotiation with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx) for an initial public offering (IPO) in 2013 reignited a new round of debate over the one share, one vote policy, which has survived for three decades in Hong Kong. Alibaba’s IPO application to list on the HKEx was eventually rejected which ultimately led to the company’s decision to list on the New York Stock Exchange. In late 2017, the debate on whether companies with dual-class share (DCS) structure should be allowed to list in Hong Kong re-emerged as the HKEx has announced that it would amend its listing rules to enable companies with DCS structure to list on its exchange, subject to certain safeguards and restrictions. This article examines what measures Hong Kong could adopt to allow companies with DCS structure to list on its exchange despite legal and institutional shortcomings of its financial market. In doing so, it will also make reference to other major financial markets in the world and examine how other jurisdictions have handled the issue of DCS structure companies.
Multiple Visions, Multiple Voices: A Dialogic Methodology for Teaching in Higher Education
Authors: Formenti Laura , Jorio Federica
Published: September 2018

This article aims at contributing to the development of teaching methodologies which can foster transformative learning in higher education. It presents a workshop experience, embedded in an undergraduate course, whereby active and dialogic methodology was designed to support the students in maturing self-awareness about their epistemologies and perspectives. The workshop used video narrative as language that allows exploration of the students’ assumptions and the cross-media portfolio to support the learning process in its unfolding. In the first part of the article, we introduce the theoretical frame and contextual premises of the workshop and our different contributions to this study. Then we describe our methodology, through its multiple—visual, narrative, reflective, and reflexive—layers. Finally, we use dialogue to analyze a student’s cross-media portfolio, as an in-depth example of the methodology employed. Our analysis illustrates the complexity and learning potential of this experience of transformative learning practices beyond self-report.
Numerical and experimental investigation of an airfoil design for a Martian micro rotorcraft
Authors: Désert T , Moschetta JM , Bézard H
Published: September 2018

The present paper aims at investigating the impact of an airfoil design on the propulsion system for a Martian rotary wing micro air vehicle. The main challenge for flying on Mars is the atmosphere’s density and speed of sound that are significantly lower than on Earth. It leads to compressible ultra-low Reynolds number ([Formula: see text]) flows for a coaxial rotorcraft with a 30 cm diameter . Since those flows are unknown in the biosphere, numerical tools have not been validated yet. Therefore, the test section from a known depressurized experiment is simulated in 3D for solver assessment. XFoil, a program for the analysis of subsonic airfoil, is also evaluated in the Martian flow conditions for evaluating its ability to be used in an optimization process. Based on the XFoil’s performance evaluations, both the camber line and thickness distribution are optimized in 2D incompressible and compressible flows. Optimal shape is a highly cambered airfoil shifting the boundary layer separation downstream. For optimization assessment, airfoils from each optimization step are numerically evaluated with the validated solver showing that small variations in the airfoil design has little impact on the 2D aerodynamic performance. A compressible optimal airfoil is also proven to be more aerodynamically effective than the experimentally effective airfoils from literature. Finally, the impact of airfoil shapes on the 3D rotor performance is evaluated with a depressurized experimental campaign recreating the Martian atmosphere in terms of kinematic viscosity. The impact of gas composition is also assessed in subsonic flows.
Updates on managing advanced breast cancer with palbociclib combination therapy
Authors: McShane Teresa M. , Wolfe Thomas A. , Ryan Joanne C.
Published: September 2018

Background:

The objective of this study was to review the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of palbociclib, a first-in-class cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor, for the management of advanced breast cancer (ABC).

Methods:

Pharmacokinetics and drug interactions associated with palbociclib are described. Recent clinical trial data are reviewed, including patient-reported outcomes and subgroup analyses.

Results:

Palbociclib is indicated in combination with an aromatase inhibitor as initial endocrine therapy (ET) or with fulvestrant for patients with disease progression following ET for hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative ABC or metastatic breast cancer. Palbociclib inhibits cyclin-dependent kinases 4/6, resulting in a blockade of phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein, which hinders the activation of transcription factors involved in S-phase entry, thereby arresting cell cycle progression at G1 phase. The efficacy and safety of palbociclib in combination with ET was established in three randomized trials (PALOMA-1, -2, and -3); all studies met their primary endpoint of significantly prolonging investigator-assessed progression-free survival versus ET alone. Findings were similar in subgroup analyses of the three PALOMA studies. Palbociclib plus ET also maintained health-related quality of life (QoL) compared with ET alone in PALOMA-2 and -3. A long-term safety profile for palbociclib, up to 3 years, has been established. Neutropenia, the most common any-grade and grade 3 or higher adverse event associated with palbociclib, is consistent with the drug’s mechanism of action and can be effectively managed with dose interruption, dose reduction, or delay in starting treatment cycles.

Conclusions:

Palbociclib in combination with ET improved progression-free survival and QoL in patients with ABC, including in several patient subgroups.
Pixar films, popular culture, and language teaching: The potential of animated films for Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Hofmann Judith
Published: September 2018

This article aims at taking a look at a genre that is popular with both children and adults, yet mostly neglected in curricula: animated films. As a study conducted in a German secondary school demonstrated, the potential of this genre for Teaching English as a Foreign Language lies mostly in its strong visual language as well as its connection to the daily lives of the students. After briefly discussing why animated films by Pixar can be considered as a genre and how this genre (re-)presents popular culture, the theoretical basis for the integration of the films into Teaching English as a Foreign Language will be laid out. The topics addressed by Pixar animated films will then be described. Also, a task typology and some actual tasks that can be used when addressing the topic in the English as a Foreign Language classroom will be introduced. Finally, one task that was actually used during the empirical study, and how the students responded to it, will be brought into focus. The main example will be the film Up (2009) but other films from the Pixar œuvre will occasionally be referenced to illustrate certain points.
The American Psychological Association’s Hoffman report allegations of my association with the “CIA torture” program
Authors: Matarazzo Joseph D
Published: September 2018

Until now, I have not responded to the undocumented and untrue portrayal of me in the Hoffman report, or the newspaper and email accounts of my alleged role in “torture.” I have waited several years because I believed that the American Psychological Association leadership would completely disavow the Hoffman report and find a way to restore my reputation as well as that of the other former American Psychological Association presidents and the small number of its senior staff who were also falsely accused. Although this has not yet happened, I remain optimistic that it will. Here I present the facts as they relate to me.
Key factors to consider when measuring multimorbidity
Authors: Griffith Lauren E , Gruneir Andrea , Fisher Kathryn A , Nicholson Kathryn , Panjwani Dilzayn , Patterson Christopher , Markle-Reid Maureen , Ploeg Jenny , Bierman Arlene S , Hogan David B , Upshur Ross
Published: September 2018

Background:

There are multiple multimorbidity measures but little consensus on which measures are most appropriate for different circumstances.

Objective:

To share insights gained from discussions with experts in the fields of ageing research and multimorbidity on key factors to consider when measuring multimorbidity.

Design:

Descriptive study of expert opinions on multimorbidity measures, informed by literature to identify available measures followed by a face-to-face meeting and an online survey.

Results:

The expert group included clinicians, researchers and policymakers in Canada with expertise in the fields of multimorbidity and ageing. Of the 30 experts invited, 15 (50%) attended the in-person meeting and 14 (47%) responded to the subsequent online survey. Experts agreed that there is no single multimorbidity measure that is suitable for all research studies. They cited a number of factors that need to be considered in selecting a measure for use in a research study including: (1) fit with the study purpose; (2) the conditions included in multimorbidity measures; (3) the role of episodic conditions or diseases; and (4) the role of social factors and other concepts missing in existing approaches.

Conclusions:

The suitability of existing multimorbidity measures for use in a specific research study depends on factors such as the purpose of the study, outcomes examined and preferences of the involved stakeholders. The results of this study suggest that there are areas that require further building out in both the conceptualization and measurement of multimorbidity for the benefit of future clinical, research and policy decisions.
Conceal or Not? Management of Dehumanized Work Identity among Lower Caste Domestic Workers and Non-domestic Scavenging Workers
Authors: Sinha Chetan , Kumar Mohit
Published: September 2018

The current study explored a social identity approach to understand the role of caste identity in the domestic labour market in India. Domestic and other non-domestic scavenging workers form an important human resource of the informal job market system. Earlier research in the context of these workers in India did not link with the critical social psychological viewpoints leading to macro-level interpretations only. Domestic work in India in itself is a low-status job having many psychological repercussions such as stigmatization and dehumanization. The focused group discussion is done with a group of domestic workers and non-domestic scavenging workers who are from lower caste background in order to understand the management of their dehumanized identity.
New drugs in thoracic oncology: needs and knowledge – an online ERS Lung Cancer Assembly survey
Authors: Berghmans Thierry , Evison Matthew , Blum Torsten Gerriet , Peled Nir , Cadranel Jacques
Published: September 2018

In the last decade, systemic therapy for advanced lung cancer has become diverse, complex and personalised. These new therapies (monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immunotherapy) have a far different toxicity profile compared to chemotherapy. Furthermore, clinical indications and reimbursement criteria can vary across Europe. The aim of the present online survey was to assess the knowledge, views and challenges facing the European respiratory community in this rapidly changing field.

A 15-question web survey was sent to all European Respiratory Society members through the Society's monthly electronic communication.

A total of 315 questionnaires were completed. Most of the respondents were male (59.1%), were above 40 years of age (52.9%) and were working in university/academic hospitals (74.8%), the majority as pulmonologists (90%). Only 55% of the participants were aware of the legal processes for drug recognition. Except for epidermal growth factor receptor TKI, up to 38% did not know about the specific toxicities of anaplastic lymphoma kinase/ROS proto-oncogene 1 TKIs, monoclonal antibodies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Of the respondents, 92% showed an interest in an online platform reporting new drugs' toxicities.

Despite a large amount of publicity and integration of new drugs into therapeutic algorithms and clinical guidelines, physicians taking care of lung cancer patients have a need for up-to-date information on systemic therapy toxicity management and legal constraints.
Comparative Characteristics of Teachers Motivation with Different Vocational Success
Authors: Токарева Ю. , Tokareva Yu. , Быкова Е. , Bykova E. , Гафурова Т. , Gafurova T.
Published: September 2018

The professional effi ciency of teachers of higher education is associated with the achievement of social and scientifi c success, the psychological mechanisms which are associated with the motivational-requirement sphere. The dominant understanding needs and motives of the most successful teachers will strengthen their eff ectiveness and infl uence the motivation conditions necessary for signifi cant scientifi c and social results. The conducted research allowed to establish that successful teachers are characterized by external motivation and the need for social approval.
Difficulties of Adaptation of the First-Year Students at Technical University
Authors: Авдеева А. , Avdeeva Anna , Сафонова Ю. , Safonova Yu.
Published: September 2018

The article presents the results of the study of an adaptation process of first-year students to the environment of the technical university. The actuality and novelty of this work are conditioned by current changes in the Russian system of higher professional education. The following problems of adaptation are pointed out as typical ones: lack of knowledge of the specifi cs of social interaction at the university in students; inadequate conceptualizations about organization of the educational process at the higher school; an external and mixed career motivation in the fi rst year’s students. A diversifi ed socio-cultural university environment is being described as a factor contributing to acceptance of the social role of «student» at the emotional level. At the same time, forming the cognitive components of the «student» role takes place not earlier than 5-6 weeks of the study at university. The results of this research have shown the necessity of including of adaptation training into the educational process for fi rst-year students.
Treasures from the Collections
Authors: Hogan Corinne
Published: September 2018

Anatomy… a hymn in praise of the wisdom of God