bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive Deviance Case Selection as a Method for Organizational Communication: A Rationale, How-to, and Illustration
Authors: Bisel Ryan S. , Kavya Pavitra , Tracy Sarah J.
Published: December 2019

Case study remains a foundation of past and present organizational communication scholarship. In this article, we show the value of supplementing traditional case-selection methods with positive deviance case selection (PDCS). PDCS is about identifying and investigating individuals, teams, and organizations whose communication is intentional, nonnormative, and honorable. PDCS supports the creation of analytic generalizations and transferable concepts that can be recommended or imitated to bolster communicative excellence and thriving in the workplace. The article explores the benefits of and techniques for PDCS and illustrates the unique strengths of PDCS with two recent examples in the organizational communication literature. Implications for method, theory building, and practice are discussed throughout the article.
Supplementing Access to Social Capital Over Time: Computer-Mediated Communication Competence for Social-Resource Development
Authors: Bouchillon Brandon C.
Published: December 2019

Social capital has been declining in America for the better part of a century, as citizens now find themselves connected to fewer people and resources. But computer-based modes of social contact have at the same time opened up new frontiers for expanding and developing personal relationships online. A two-wave U.S. web survey was used to examine the importance of computer-mediated communication (CMC) competence for social-resource development, measured in terms of occupational prestige. CMC competence related to acquiring more total resources over time. It also contributed to accessing a wider range of resources and having more valuable connections on average. When CMC competence was broken down into subscale measures, computer-based motivation contributed to total resources and range in resources, while computer-based attentiveness related to developing better resources. Findings speak to the value of CMC competence for social capital and the waning influence of interpersonal competence in general.
A Rhetorical Analysis of Intermediary Organization Documents on College Completion Policy
Authors: Hammond Lindsey , Adams Philip , Rubin Paul G. , Ness Erik C.
Published: December 2019

Intermediary organizations play an increasingly important role in public policy related to higher education, particularly related to the completion agenda. This study addresses strategies employed by intermediary organizations to communicate to policymakers regarding college completion. Using rhetorical analysis, we examine 72 documents to deconstruct their arguments. Findings show that intermediaries employ the rhetorical elements of ethos, pathos, delivery, and idiom to present information and advocate preferred policy solutions. Importantly, organizations communicate messages differently based on their orientation toward the researcher or policymaker communities. Intermediary organizations aligned more closely with researchers rely more on empirical evidence and neutral tones, whereas organizations aligned more closely with policymakers utilize more idiomatic language, visually engaging document design, and nonempirical sources of evidence. Rhetorical analysis can enable researchers, intermediaries, and policymakers all to work more clearly and carefully in the higher education policy arena and, in so doing, strengthen the bridge between the two communities.
Inverse identification of mechanical parameters of fiber metal laminates
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Li Hui , Wang Wen-yu , Liu Yuan-ning , Wen Bang-chun
Published: December 2019

In this paper, an inverse method to identify the mechanical parameters of fiber metal laminates is proposed on the basis of the measured and calculated frequency response functions. The classical laminates theory, orthogonal polynomial method, and energy method are employed to characterize the theoretical modal of a fiber metal-laminated thin plate under pulse excitation. And, an iterative solution on the basis of frequency response functions and least square method is proposed to identify the mechanical parameters of fiber metal laminates, which conclude the elastic modulus, Poisson's ratios, and loss factors. As an example to demonstrate the feasibility of the developed inverse method, the experimental test of a TA2/TC 300 fiber metal-laminated thin plate is implemented to identify the mechanical parameters. Moreover, the influences of approximation points and calculation step sizes on the identification accuracy and efficiency are discussed.
Genetic, epigenetic, and lineage-directed mechanisms in benzene-induced malignancies and hematotoxicity targeting hematopoietic stem cells niche
Authors: Dewi R , Hamid Z Abdul , Rajab NF , Shuib S , Razak SR Abdul
Published: December 2019

Benzene is a known hematotoxic and leukemogenic agent with hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) niche being the potential target. Occupational and environmental exposure to benzene has been linked to the incidences of hematological disorders and malignancies. Previous studies have shown that benzene may act via multiple modes of action targeting HSCs niche, which include induction of chromosomal and micro RNA aberrations, leading to genetic and epigenetic modification of stem cells and probable carcinogenesis. However, understanding the mechanism linking benzene to the HSCs niche dysregulation is challenging due to complexity of its microenvironment. The niche is known to comprise of cell populations accounted for HSCs and their committed progenitors of lymphoid, erythroid, and myeloid lineages. Thus, it is fundamental to address novel approaches via lineage-directed strategy to elucidate precise mechanism involved in benzene-induced toxicity targeting HSCs and progenitors of different lineages. Here, we review the key genetic and epigenetic factors that mediate hematotoxicological effects by benzene and its metabolites in targeting HSCs niche. Overall, the use of combined genetic, epigenetic, and lineage-directed strategies targeting the HSCs niche is fundamental to uncover the key mechanisms in benzene-induced hematological disorders and malignancies.
Effect of dopant concentration on polyaniline/poly(4-styrene sulfonic acid) composite for ammonia gas detection
Authors: Jayamurugan P , Mariappan R , Deivanayaki S , Ponnuswamy V , Maadeswaran P , Chavali Murthy , Rao Y V Subba
Published: December 2019

Polyaniline (PANI)/poly(4-styrene sulfonic acid) (PSS) has been prepared for various molar ratios of hydrochloric acid (HCl) (1, 2, 3 and 4 M, respectively) through in situ chemical polymerization method. The reaction temperature was 25°C for 3 h. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum confirms the attachment of the structure to functional groups. The intensity of PANI is increased with increasing HCl concentration. Scanning electron microscopic graphs reveal the irregular morphology. The complex impedance of the PANI/PSS shows two distinguished semicircles and the diameter of the arcs decreased with an increase in ammonia concentration at room temperature. The sensitivity of the sensor increased with time, and the maximum sensitivity is 7.4 at 3 M of HCl for 500 ppm. The results are discussed and reported.
Book review: Bhangya Bhukya, History of Modern Telangana
Authors: Reddy Busam Monika
Published: December 2019

Bhangya Bhukya, History of Modern Telangana. Hyderabad: Orient Black Swan, 2017, ₹250, pp. ISBN: 9789386689887.
Inter-State Disparities in the Reduction of Multidimensional Deprivations in India
Authors: Mishra Brajaraja
Published: December 2019

The higher economic growth in the post-reform period has increased the standard of living of the people. At the same time, it widened the inter-state inequality. It was argued that the increasing inequality might lead to social disarticulation and hinder growth. Thus, a discussion on growing inter-state inequality became a policy debate in recent years to achieve inclusive growth. In this backdrop, this article analyses trends in the inter-state inequality with regards to multidimensional deprivations (MD) in the domains of education, health and poverty during the post-reform period in India. It also assesses whether levels of deprivation among the Indian states are converging/diverging over a period of time. Weighted coefficient of variation and Theil entropy measures were used to assess the inter-state inequality and β-convergence estimates were used to test whether there is convergence/divergence among the Indian states with regards to reduction in MD over time. The analysis found that the inter-state disparity in MD has increased during the post-reform period in India; the levels of deprivation among the better off states declined over time, while most of the backward states could not do so due to their high initial level deprivations.
Mutual aid for the arts in nineteenth- and twentieth-century Milan: The ‘Pio Istituto Teatrale’
Authors: Pierotti Mariarita , Capocchi Alessandro , Orlandini Paola
Published: December 2019

In the nineteenth century, when the theatre arts were at their peak, Milan was considered the intellectual and artistic capital of Italy. This article explores the objectives and the functioning of an important mutual aid company based in Milan – the Pio Istituto Teatrale – through its accounting system. These accounting documents clearly convey the dual nature of this organization, which was dedicated to protecting both social welfare and the arts. This study confirms the social role of accounting and its implications. In recent years, the attention paid to accounting in artistic institutions has been increasing. However, while many studies have explored Italian mutual aid societies in general, few have considered those in the artistic field specifically. This article attempts to rectify this oversight by examining a mutual aid society functioning in the world of theatre via its accounting records.
Case series of dementia with Lewy bodies: consensus criteria in practice
Authors: Goodwin Richard
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

This case series considers three patients newly diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) whilst under the care of mental health services. The cases demonstrate that the difficulties in diagnosing DLB as early symptoms may resemble other neurodegenerative disorders or psychiatric illnesses.

Conclusion:

The role of consensus criteria in diagnosis is explored. The use of screening and assessment tools in early identification of DLB is also considered.
Proposed grading scheme for inflammatory bowel disease in ferrets and correlation with clinical signs
Authors: Cazzini Paola , Watson Megan K. , Gottdenker Nicole , Mayer Joerg , Reavill Drury , Fox James G. , Parry Nicola , Sakamoto Kaori
Published: December 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic, chronic, inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract of companion animals, including ferrets ( Mustela putorius furo). Clinical signs of IBD are nonspecific, and intestinal biopsies are necessary for a definitive diagnosis. A grading scheme has not been established for ferrets. Additionally, the association between histologic severity and clinical signs in ferrets is unknown. We evaluated enteric samples from ferrets diagnosed with IBD, compared histologic grading schemes, and correlated the results with the severity of clinical signs. Enteric sections from 23 ferrets with IBD were analyzed using grading schemes for intestinal inflammation in cats and dogs, and a correlation with clinical signs was evaluated. After dividing the histologic samples into groups based on the severity of clinical signs, main histologic differences were identified. Age and sex were also assessed for correlation with clinical signs. No significant correlation was found between the 2 grading schemes and clinical signs (rho = 0.02, p = 0.89; rho = 0.26, p = 0.18, respectively). Degree of villus fusion, hemorrhage and/or fibrin, epithelial damage, inflammation density, and crypt abscess formation were used retrospectively to create a ferret IBD grading scheme, which was significantly correlated with the severity of clinical signs (rho = 0.48, p = 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between age ( p = 0.04) and females ( p = 0.007) with severity of clinical signs. Our ferret grading scheme may have clinical utility in providing a more objective, consistent evaluation of IBD in ferrets.
A Multiple Case Study of the Interagency Relationship Between School Administrators and Law Enforcement Personnel in the Creation, Implementation, and Sustaining of School Emergency Management Plans
Authors: Lopez Robert , Swezey James A. , Claxton Russ
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to examine how the interorganizational relationship between school administrators and law enforcement personnel with diverse cultures, missions, and objectives collaborates to create, implement, and sustain emergency management readiness. The theoretical concept that guided this study involved interorganizational theories as they relate to two or more organizations working together toward a common goal. This study used purposeful sampling of 12 participants from three school districts from the states of Alabama, New Mexico, and Illinois. Interviews, documents, and artifacts, such as school safety plans, school safety drills, safety audits, and Safe School rubrics, were analyzed as part of the data collection process. Results indicated that the creation of emergency management plans is primarily the work of district administrators. The implementation process included district administrators and building principals with minimal input of law enforcement personnel. However, the process of sustaining school emergency plans is a joint effort between school and law enforcement personnel. Analysis of data affirmed the importance of having an effective interorganizational relationship between school and law enforcement personnel in the context of school safety to create an effective emergency management plan in the school.
Constrained representation learning for recurrent policy optimisation under uncertainty
Authors: Dang Viet-Hung , Vien Ngo Anh , Chung TaeChoong
Published: December 2019

Learning to make decisions in partially observable environments is a notorious problem that requires a complex representation of controllers. In most work, the controllers are designed as a non-linear mapping from a sequence of temporal observations to actions. These problems can, in principle, be formulated as a partially observable Markov decision process whose policy can be parameterised through the use of recurrent neural networks. In this paper, we will propose an alternative framework that (a) uses the Long-Short-Term-Memory (LSTM) Encoder-Decoder framework to learn an internal state representation for historical observations and then (b) integrates it into existing recurrent policy models to improve the task performance. The LSTM Encoder encodes a history of observations as input into a representation of internal states. The LSTM Decoder can perform two alternative decoding tasks: predicting the same input observation sequence or predicting future observation sequences. The first proposed decoder acts like an auto-encoder that will guide and constrain the learning of a useful internal state for the policy optimisation task. The second proposed decoder decodes the learnt internal state by the encoder to predict future observation sequences. This idea makes the network act like a non-linear predictive state representation model. Both these decoding parts, which introduce constraints to policy representation, will help guide both the policy optimisation problem and latent state representation learning. The integration of representation learning and policy optimisation aims to help learn more complex policies and improve the performance of policy learning tasks.
Robust stabilization of one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems via adaptive sliding mode control
Authors: Saad Wajdi , Sellami Anis , Garcia Germain
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the problem of adaptive sliding mode control for varied one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems with uncertainties is investigated. In contrast to existing sliding mode control design methods, the considered models, in the current study, are affected by nonlinear control inputs, one-sided Lipschitz nonlinearities, unknown disturbances and parameter uncertainties. At first, to design the sliding surface, a specific switching function is defined. The corresponding nonlinear equivalent control is extracted and the resulting sliding mode dynamic is given. Novel synthesis conditions of asymptotic stability are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Thereafter, to ensure the reachability of system states and the occurrence of the sliding mode, the sliding mode controller is designed. Any knowledge of the upper bound on the perturbation is not required and an adaptation law is proposed. At last, two illustrative examples are introduced.
Early Predictors of De Novo and Subthreshold Late-Onset ADHD in a Child and Adolescent Cohort
Authors: Liu Chao-Yu , Asherson Philip , Viding Essi , Greven Corina U. , Pingault Jean-Baptiste
Published: December 2019

Objective: The study aimed to identify early childhood risk factors for de novo and subthreshold late-onset ADHD. Method: ADHD symptoms were assessed in 9,875 participants from the Twins Early Development Study (TEDS) using the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale at ages 8, 12, 14, and 16 years, along with other childhood characteristics and adolescent outcomes. Multinomial logistic regressions were implemented to identify early childhood predictors of late-onset ADHD and childhood-onset persistent ADHD, with non-ADHD controls as the reference category. Results: Male sex, increased childhood conduct problems, and low socioeconomic status predicted de novo late-onset ADHD. Additional risk factors predicted subthreshold late-onset ADHD and childhood-onset persistent ADHD. Late-onset ADHD symptoms were also accompanied by increased co-occurring behavioral and emotional problems. Conclusion: Findings of different childhood predictors between subthreshold and de novo late-onset ADHD suggest further investigation into time-varying environmental and biological factors driving psychopathological changes is warranted to fully characterize late-onset ADHD.
Characteristics of non-mature but functional autogenous radiocephalic fistulas in hemodialysis patients: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Dongliang , Zhang Zhoucang , Wan Li , Chang Jingjing , Zhao Rui
Published: December 2019

Target:

To compare the ultrasound characteristics between functional, mature arteriovenous fistulas and functional, non-mature arteriovenous fistulas and to identify the predictors of arteriovenous fistula maturation in the forearm.

Methods:

Patients with newly set-up functional arteriovenous fistulas were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Ultrasound examinations were conducted pre-operatively and post-operatively. The inner vessel diameter, blood flow volume, and resistance index were measured and compared between the maturation group (Group M) and non-maturation group (Group N). Baseline parameters were calculated to determine the predictors of non-maturation of arteriovenous fistulas.

Results:

All 52 patients with functional arteriovenous fistulas, who were categorized into Group M (25 patients, 48.08%) and Group N (27 patients, 51.92%), finished 24 weeks of follow-up after arteriovenous fistula surgery. The arteriovenous fistulas displayed a significant and rapid increase in the vessel diameter (mean increase of 1.34 times in the arteries and 1.92 times in the veins) and blood flow volume (mean increase of 9.29 times of the arteries and 43.66 times of the veins) and a decrease in the resistance index (mean decrease in 48.00% in the arteries) 8 weeks after surgery. Group N had a lesser increase in the vessel diameters (1.78 times vs 2.06 times, t = −3.136, p = 0.003) and blood flow volume (33.98 times vs 54.11 times, t = −2.383, p = 0.021) of the cephalic vein draining segments (a6) than Group M. The baseline diameter of a6 was the only independent predictor (regression coefficient = 26.229, p = 0.008) of maturation of the functional arteriovenous fistulas after correcting for sex, age, diabetes kidney disease, weight, and height.

Conclusion:

The baseline diameter of the cephalic vein was the only predictor of arteriovenous fistula maturation based on the pre-operative ultrasound measurements in Chinese hemodialysis patients.
Feeling their pain: affective empathy and public preferences for foreign development aid
Authors: Bayram A. Burcu , Holmes Marcus
Published: December 2019

Bringing together psychological approaches to empathy with research on public preferences for foreign development aid, we shed light on the role empathy plays in global helping behavior. We argue individuals combine their affective empathic responses with situational factors when forming foreign aid preferences. Testing our theory with two novel experiments embedded in a national survey of US citizens, we find that affective empathy not only predicts the individual variation in foreign aid preferences but also explains why Americans weigh aid effectiveness and recipient deservingness—the two important situational aspects of foreign aid—differently. We show that the ability to feel others’ pain is what facilitates global helping behavior, not simply knowing their pain. However, even though this affective ability moderates the impact of aid effectiveness, it amplifies that of recipient merit. Our results contribute to a richer understanding of when empathy facilitates public support for foreign development aid and add to the burgeoning research program on behavioral international politics.
Unpacking distributed creativity: Analysing sociomaterial practices in theatre artwork
Authors: Parolin Laura L , Pellegrinelli Carmen
Published: December 2019

This article shows how to account for the sociomaterial dimension of distributed creativity in the arts. By following the genesis of a new theatre production, we examined the sociomaterial practices involved to unpack the sociomaterial dimension of distributed creativity. To account for this, we draw on concepts from laboratory studies to explain creative and design work. In so doing, we considered the significance of distributed creative practices that are constituted by intermediaries which we argue, help to outline, refine and develop the creative idea. This article is especially attentive to the professional practices in the rehearsal room; what we called the ‘ creative laboratory’, the locus where material artifact and their potentialities unfold in the process of creating a work of art ‘yet to arrive’. Extracts from ethnographic observations are used to illustrate the creative process from the germination of ideas to the collectively arrived at final production. In this respect, the rehearsal room is where initiatives are trialled and tested, and specific aspects of a scene (re)created, to feed into the composition of the emergent theatrical work.
Performance-based probabilistic framework for seismic risk, resilience, and sustainability assessment of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Anwar Ghazanfar Ali , Dong You , Zhai Changhai
Published: December 2019

Recent earthquakes have highlighted additional losses due to the lack of resilience of damaged structures. Environmental impact, as performance indicator, has also received increased attention within performance-based earthquake engineering. In this article, a combined probabilistic framework is proposed to assess seismic risk, sustainability, and resilience of a non-ductile reinforced concrete frame structure. The framework utilizes three-dimensional inelastic fiber-based numerical modeling approach to develop limit states associated with performance levels. The decision variables (i.e. repair cost, downtime, and equivalent carbon emissions) are quantified at both component level and system level and are compared considering seismic risk, sustainability, and resilience. In addition, the proposed approach considers uncertainties in the building performance and consequence functions of structural and non-structural components. Fast-track and slow-track schemes are utilized as a repair strategy and probabilistic resilience is quantified given the investigated time period. The proposed approach can aid the development of the next generation of performance-based engineering incorporating both resilience and sustainability.
Collapse resistance of steel frames with concrete slabs due to penultimate-side column loss
Authors: Li Guo-Qiang , Zhang Jing-Zhou , Jiang Jian
Published: December 2019

Steel frames with concrete floor systems have been widely used in buildings due to their high constructional efficiency and excellent seismic performance. Currently, limited analytical studies focused on the effect of boundary conditions on collapse mechanisms of steel frames with concrete slabs. This article presents a revised energy-based method to determine the collapse resistance of steel frames with concrete slabs due to a penultimate-side column loss. The detailed models of main structural members are taken into account, including reinforced concrete slabs, steel beams, and steel columns. The reasonability and reliability of the analytical method are verified against validated numerical analyses using various slab aspect ratios, slab thicknesses, rebar ratios, beam section heights, and column heights. It is found that the analytical method can be used to accurately predict the collapse resistance of steel frames due to a penultimate-side column loss with errors less than 10%. A comparison of collapse resistance of substructures subjected to penultimate-side and intermediate-side column loss shows that boundary conditions have limited effects on the plastic bearing capacity of substructures. However, the ultimate bearing capacity of substructures due to a penultimate-side column loss decreases by about 20% due to the insufficient development of tensile catenary action in steel beams.
Interpositional Arthroplasty of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint with Bioresorbable Pldla Implant in the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus and Arthritic Hallux Valgus: A 9-Year Case Series Follow-Up
Authors: Partio N. , Ponkilainen V. T. , Rinkinen V. , Honkanen P. , Haapasalo H. , Laine H. -J. , Mäenpää H. M.
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims:

The interpositional arthroplasty was developed to retain foot function and to relieve pain due to the arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The bioabsorbable poly-L-D-lactic acid RegJoint® interpositional implant provides temporary support to the joint, and the implant is subsequently replaced by the patient’s own tissue. In this study, we retrospectively examined the results of the poly-L-D-lactic acid interpositional arthroplasty in a 9-year follow-up study among patients with hallux valgus with end-stage arthrosis or hallux rigidus.

Material and Methods:

Eighteen patients and 21 joints underwent interpositional arthroplasty using the poly-L-D-lactic acid implant between February 1997 and October 2002 at Tampere University Hospital. Of these, 15 (83.3%) (21 joints) patients were compliant with clinical examination and radiographic examination in long-term (average 9.4 years) follow-up. The mean age of the patients was 48.3 (from 28 to 67) years at the time of the operation. Six patients underwent the operation due to arthritic hallux valgus and nine patients due to hallux rigidus.

Results:

The mean Ankle Society Hallux Metatarsophalangeal–Interphalangeal Scale and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain scores improved after the operation in all patients. The decrease of pain (visual analogue scale) after the operation was statistically significant (77.5 vs 10.0; p < 0.001). Postoperative complications were observed in 3 (14.3%) joints of two hallux rigidus patients. For these patients, surgery had only temporarily relieved the pain, and they underwent reoperation with arthrodesis.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, interpositional arthroplasty using a poly-L-D-lactic acid implant yielded good results. This study indicates that the poly-L-D-lactic acid interpositional implant may be a good alternative for arthrodesis for treatment of end-stage degeneration of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
Online engagement of active communicative behaviors and news consumption on Internet portal sites
Authors: Kim Sora , Rim Hyejoon , Sung Kang Hoon
Published: December 2019

Through a quantitative content analysis, this study examines how varying online communicative behaviors are connected to news characteristics of focus, tone, and media framing of crisis communication during the South Korean Candlelight Revolution that led to the ouster of former President Park in 2017. This work suggests that, when the news stance was positive toward or the focus was on Park, Koreans were more active in showing disapproval through comments posted and anger expressed; when the news stance was negative toward Park or the focus was anti-Park, Koreans were more tacitly supportive, clicking likes more. This work also suggests that news media performed active frame-setting of Park’s crisis-response strategies by presenting more defensive strategies than accommodative ones. Publics’ news consumption of media-framed defensive crisis-response strategies tended to elicit more active online public engagement than when such media framing was absent.
Ode to Alda
Authors: Thyroff Anastasia
Published: December 2019

Iceland, with a small population of approximately 340,000, is a mostly uninhabited island complete with waterfalls, geysers, fjords, black-sand beaches, volcanos, sheep, and horses. The original Viking settlers did not have a native population or large predators to battle in Iceland upon arrival but quickly became attuned to ancient magic and the Huldufólk (hidden people) concealed in the natural features of the island. The natural elements combined with geographic isolation makes Iceland ripe with untouched beauty and deep-rooted cultural myths—ones that modern tourists eagerly share on social media, perpetuating the tourism demand. Now, once a traditional fishing economy, Iceland’s tourism economy dominates, seeing an increase of 20–30 percent in visitors each year since 2010. On any given year, tourists far outnumber Icelanders nearly six-to-one. These are the tales of the tourism assemblages and tensions surrounding Alda, a resident of the remote Westfjords in Iceland.
Effect of electron beam irradiation on the properties of EVA/EPDM blends
Authors: Chen Haoyang , Zhu Xiaoyi , Liu Kangyu , Wu Han , Zhang Ming , Yan Changhao
Published: December 2019

Effect of electron beam (EB) irradiation on the properties of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)/ethylene–propylene–diene monomer (EPDM) (50/50) blends was studied. The blends were firstly melt-compounded at 130°C followed with being irradiated using 4.0 MeV EB energy at doses ranging from 0 kGy to 200 kGy. It is found that the dosage of irradiation plays a key role in the properties of the blends. With the increasing dosage of irradiation, tensile strength and thermal stability were enhanced. The irradiation exerts a cross-linking effect on the blends, and the increase in density is responsible for the enhanced properties. Dynamic mechanical and thermal analyses and morphology indicate that irradiation does not play any negative role in the compatibility between EVA and EPDM. Hot set test reveals that irradiation could improve the heat deformation property of blends. Thus, it is reasonable and interesting to modify EVA/EPDM blends using EB irradiation to further increase its properties.
Nutcracker Syndrome as an Unusual Cause of Postprandial Pain
Authors: Maloni Krystal C. , Calligaro Keith D. , Lipshutz William , Vani Kunal , Troutman Douglas A. , Dougherty Matthew J.
Published: December 2019

Nutcracker syndrome is a rare entity in which compression of the left renal vein (LRV), usually by the overlying superior mesenteric artery (SMA), results in renal venous congestion and reflux in the left ovarian vein (LOV). Patients may present with hematuria, left flank pain, dyspareunia, and vaginal or abdominal wall varicose veins. We report a patient with nutcracker syndrome who presented atypically with left flank pain that was exacerbated in the postprandial state. We hypothesize that the physiologic dilation of the SMA after oral intake caused increased LRV compression at that site and augmented lateral LRV distention. The patient had no evidence of SMA syndrome or chronic mesenteric insufficiency. Her symptoms resolved after we performed an LOV to inferior vena cava transposition.
Expedited TR Band Removal for Transradial Approach for Noncoronary Visceral Procedures: Initial Experience
Authors: Shahid Muhammad , Chandra Vishnu , Wajswol Ethan , Contractor Sohail , Shukla Pratik , Kumar Abhishek
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

For transradial interventions, most published studies report an initial Terumo Radial (TR) band placement time of 60 minutes, with gradual deflation over 30 to 90 minutes. We aimed to determine, retrospectively, whether TR band removal time could be expedited to 45 to 60 minutes, without adverse effects via an expedited single-step deflation protocol.

Methods:

A total of 115 consecutive noncoronary visceral interventions that utilized TR band from September 2017 till February 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Alternative single-step deflation protocol was utilized where the nursing staff was instructed to deflate the TR band in 1 step between 45 and 60 minutes; 79 patients (43 men, 36 women, mean age of 55.3 ± 13.6 years) underwent 115 transradial interventions. Mean procedure time was 49.8 ± 22.1 minutes, and mean fluoroscopy time was 18.5 ± 10.6 minutes. Data collected included patient demographics, procedure details, and nursing notes on complications including bleeding and reinflation of the TR band. Univariate and Multivariate analyses of independent variables were performed using a binary logistic regression model. All patients were followed up postoperatively before discharge and in clinic upon follow-up.

Results:

The TR band was deflated at 51.3 ± 14.5 minutes, with successful removal achieved on the first attempt in 103 cases (90.3% primary technical success rate). In 12 cases, bleeding was noted upon initial deflation, secondary technical success was achieved when the band was reinflated for an additional mean time of 37.0 ± 19.1 minutes. There was 1 incidence of radial artery occlusion (0.8%) and 1 incidence of a grade 1 hematoma (0.8%). The only variable predictive of technical outcome upon initial band deflation on univariate binomial logistic regression was initial TR band removal time ( P = .019).

Conclusions:

A single-step deflation protocol for TR band placement may be safe for nonocclusive patent hemostasis and may translate to even further shorten postprocedural hospital times for patients and cost savings for hospitals.
The carbon-nanotube nanofluid sprayed on an unsteady stretching cylinder together with entropy generation
Authors: Gul Taza , Waqas Muhammad , Noman Waqas , Zaheer Zafar , Amiri Iraj S
Published: December 2019

The water-based single- and multiple-wall carbon nanotubes nanofluid over the surface of an unsteady stretched cylinder has been studied. The thin film of the carbon-nanotube nanofluid has been focused for the heat transfer enhancement applications. The well-known thermal conductivity model for the revolving tube materials like single- and multiple-walled carbon nanotubes defined by Xue were used. The modeled problem has been solved through the optimal homotopy analysis method using the BVPh 2.0 package. The distribution of the thin layer has been regulated through the pressure term using the variable thickness of the nanoliquid. The entropy generation has mainly focused during the motion of the thin layer for the both sorts of carbon nanotubes. The important features of the entropy generation and Bejan number under the influence of the physical constraints have been compared for the both types of single-wall carbon nanotubes and multiple-wall carbon nanotubes and discussed. The well-known BVPh 2.0 package of the optimal homotopy analysis method has been used to find the outcomes.
Solution of nonlinear problems by a new analytical technique using Daftardar-Gejji and Jafari polynomials
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Islam Saeed , Gul Taza , Amiri Iraj Sadegh
Published: December 2019

This article shows the solution of nonlinear differential equations by a new analytical technique called modified optimal homotopy perturbation method. Daftardar-Gejji and Jafari polynomials are used in the proposed method for the expansion of nonlinear term in the equation. Four nonlinear boundary value problems of fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth orders are solved by modified optimal homotopy perturbation method as well as optimal homotopy perturbation method. The achieved consequences are authenticated by comparison with the results gained by the existing method—optimal homotopy perturbation method. The method consists of few steps and gives better results. The easy applicability and fast convergence are goals of the applied technique. The applied technique has fewer limitations and can be used for the phenomena containing ordinary differential equation, partial differential equation, integro-differential equation, and their systems.
A route navigation algorithm for pedestrian simulation based on grid potential field
Authors: Li Minghua , Wei Yun , Xu Yan
Published: December 2019

Pedestrian simulation modeling has become an important means to study the dynamic characters of dense populations. In the continuous pedestrian simulation model for complex simulation scenario with obstacles, the pedestrian path planning algorithm is an indispensable component, which is used for the calculation of pedestrian macro path and microscopic movement desired direction. However, there is less efficiency and poor robustness in the existing pedestrian path planning algorithm. To address this issue, we propose a new pedestrian path planning algorithm to solve these problems in this article. In our algorithm, we have two steps to determine pedestrian movement path, that is, the discrete potential fields are first generated by the flood fill algorithm and then the pedestrian desired speeds are determined along the negative gradient direction in the discrete potential field. Combined with the social force model, the proposed algorithm is applied in a corridor, a simple scene, and a complex scene, respectively, to verify its effectiveness and efficiency. The results demonstrate that the proposed pedestrian path planning algorithm in this article can greatly improve the computational efficiency of the continuous pedestrian simulation model, strengthen the robustness of application in complex scenes.
Pemetrexed/carboplatin plus gefitinib as a first-line treatment for EGFR-mutant advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhonghan , Zeng Kangmei , Zhao Shen , Zhao Yuanyuan , Hou Xue , Luo Fan , Lu Feiteng , Zhang Yaxiong , Zhou Ting , Ma Yuxiang , Yang Yunpeng , Fang Wenfeng , Huang Yan , Zhang Li , Zhao Hongyun
Published: December 2019

Background:

First-line treatments for nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations have been evaluated in various clinical trials. However, it remains unclear which is the optimal treatment.

Methods:

A Bayesian network meta-analysis was used to assess the efficacy and safety profile of gefitinib, erlotinib, afatinib, dacomitinib, osimertinib, erlotinib plus bevacizumab and pemetrexed/carboplatin, or pemetrexed alone plus gefitinib. Literature was sourced from electronic databases. Data regarding objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), treatment-related adverse event grades 3–5 (TRAE 3–5), specific TRAEs [diarrhea, rash, and elevated aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT)] were extracted. The regimens were then ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA).

Results:

A total of 19 studies involving 4607 EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients were analyzed. In regards to efficacy, pemetrexed/carboplatin (PC) plus gefitinib was superior in ORR and OS to chemotherapy and first-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs). All the TKI-based regimens had equivalent DCR and PFS. Patients with the L858R mutation treated with PC plus gefitinib achieved a better outcome than most EGFR TKI-related groups (except osimertinib) in the PFS subgroup. In regards to safety, no statistical significance for TRAEs was observed among the eight treatments. In regards to SUCRA, PC plus gefitinib ranked first in terms of PFS, OS, and TRAE grades 3–5.

Conclusions:

Pemetrexed/carboplatin plus gefitinib is a promising treatment option for EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients in the first-line setting.
We Agree, Don’t We? The Delphi Method for Health Environments Research
Authors: Taylor Ellen
Published: December 2019

Objective:

This overview is intended to provide the process framework for built environment researchers to use the Delphi method. The article outlines the methodological criteria originally established for the Delphi method, as well as commonly accepted modifications, to advance guidance for evidence-based built environment considerations.

Background:

Increasingly used in healthcare research, the Delphi method is a process for gaining consensus through controlled feedback from a panel—a group made up of experts or individuals knowledgeable on the subject. The method is often used where there is limited or conflicting evidence, where participants may be geographically dispersed, and where anonymity is desired to control for dominant individuals. The Delphi method consists of panel selection, development of content surveys, and iterative stages of anonymous responses to gain consensus. Panelists receive feedback after each round in the form of a statistical representation of the overall group’s response. The goal of multiple iterations in the Delphi method is to reduce the range of responses and gain expert consensus, which is often seen as more credible than conjecture or individual opinion.

Conclusion:

With a geographic diversity of healthcare design expertise, and with so many aspects of healthcare design lacking a robust body of supporting empirical research, the Delphi method is well-suited to developing evidence-based design recommendations and considerations for healthcare built environments.
Designing Beyond the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA): Creating an Autism-Friendly Vocational Center
Authors: Clouse Joslin R. , Wood-Nartker Jeanneane , Rice Franklyn A.
Published: December 2019

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been effective in establishing building standards that create accessible spaces for people with physical impairments. These guidelines have not addressed the needs of people with mental, emotional, and/or developmental disabilities. With the increase in autism diagnosis, designers/architects need to expand their planning to include more universal solutions. The purpose is to demonstrate ways of designing beyond ADA to address needs of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To design effectively, designers/architects must identify sensory issues that influence these children in establishing a regulatory state enabling effective interaction with neurotypical peers. Design is also important for teachers, therapists, and parents of children with ASD to enable more successful interactions. If the environment is overstimulating for a child with ASD, then a parent/caregiver/therapist will struggle to achieve their goals. Mostafa recommended seven design criteria known as ASPECTSS™: Acoustics, Spatial sequencing, Escape spaces, Compartmentalization, Transition spaces, Sensory zoning, and Safety, when designing for people with ASD. These classifications lay the groundwork for the established guidelines. As designers/architects, we have a responsibility to create inclusive environments. To help, the authors highlighted a vocational center showing one plan that meets ADA guidelines and another that illustrates additional environmental features addressing the needs of people with ASD. These criteria originated from evidence-based solutions derived from a literature review and personal interview. These recommendations demonstrate that sensitivity to the needs of people with autism creates a solution that is better for all people.
Image that Matters: News Media Consumption and Party Leader Effects on Voting Behavior
Authors: Garzia Diego , Ferreira da Silva Frederico , De Angelis Andrea
Published: December 2019

Television is customarily put forward as a driver of the “personalization of politics.” The characteristics of this visual medium arguably accentuate personality at the expense of substantive programmatic goals, downplaying partisan attachments and ideology as determinants of the vote in favor of candidate and party leader assessments. While there is evidence of this trend for presidential democracies, notably the United States, this linkage is yet to be fully explored for parliamentary democracies undergoing a process of personalization. This study addresses this gap through an analysis of pooled national election study data from thirteen Western European parliamentary democracies collected between 1982 and 2016. Our results show that leader effects are significantly stronger among individuals with a television-dominant media diet. The findings provide support to the yet underdeveloped theoretical relationship between media change and the personalization of politics, while also speaking to the broader question involving the importance of media for contemporary democratic elections.
How coworkers attribute, react to, and shape job crafting
Authors: Tims Maria , Parker Sharon K.
Published: December 2019

Job crafting, or proactive changes that individuals make in their job design, can influence and be influenced by coworkers. Although considerable research has emerged on this topic, overall, the way job crafting is responded to by coworkers has received little theoretical attention. The goal of this article is to develop a model that allows for a better understanding of job crafting in interdependent contexts. Drawing on attribution and social information theories, we propose that when job crafting has a negative or positive impact on coworkers, coworkers will make an attribution about the crafter’s prosocial motive. This attribution in turn influences whether coworkers respond in an antagonistic or a supportive way toward job crafters. Ultimately, coworkers’ reactions shape the experienced affective work outcomes of job crafters. We also theorize the factors that moderate coworkers’ reactions to job crafting behaviors and the job crafter’s susceptibility to coworker influence.
Punishing campus protesters based on ideology
Authors: Giersch Jason
Published: December 2019

Recent protests on university campuses have inspired conservative claims that liberals allow partisanship to color their judgement of disorderly activists. Prior research suggests, however, that both ideologies are prone to political bias. Furthermore, because conservatives are typically more concerned with orderliness and authority, there are theoretical reasons to expect conservatives to respond more forcefully to protests than liberals, especially when those protesters are political opponents. Using an experimental design with two samples, one with Mechanical Turk participants and the other with current college students, the study finds support for the hypotheses that (1) conservatives are more punitive towards protesters than liberals, (2) both ideologies are more likely to punish when protesters are their political opponents, and (3) conservatives’ responses to protesters are more sensitive to their ideology than liberals’. These results support recent studies of the psychology of political ideology and punitiveness.