bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of demographic transformation on future rice farming in Asia
Authors: Bhandari Humnath , Mishra Ashok Kumar
Published: April 2018

We examine the depth and breadth of ongoing demographic transformation in Asia and draw ramifications on future rice farming using long-run time-series data from 17 major rice-growing countries in Asia. We found that Asia is undergoing declining trends in women fertility, child mortality, family size, population growth, the proportion of the agricultural population, and involvement of youth in agriculture. On the other hand, rural out-migration, aging of the farming population, and urbanization show increasing trends. These emerging trends will have far-reaching impacts on future rice farming mediated through labor market, rice market, rice demand, and rice supply. Policymakers and scientists must anticipate more rapid demographic transformation in the future and implement necessary technological, institutional, policy, and strategic solutions to manage or cope with future demographic transformation.
Characterization of nano-structured poly(ε-caprolactone) membranes with DNA-doped polypyrrole via sonication-induced layer-by-layer assembly
Authors: Kim Geon Jin , Yoon Kee Jong , Kim Ick Soo , Kim Kyu Oh
Published: April 2018

In this study, the formation of conductive nano-structured polypyrrole (PPy) on electrospun poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibers was successfully achieved using a DNA dopant (PCL/DNA-PPy) via sonication-induced layer-by-layer assembly. After PPy containing positive charges was accumulated on PCL, DNAs with negative charges deposited such that they were evenly distributed. The resulting PCL/DNA-PPy nanomembrane exhibited increased fiber diameter (PCL/DNA-PPy 5LBL: 328.11 ± 48 nm) and deformation morphology compared to pure PCL (average fiber diameter of 247.25 ± 32 nm, fibrous uniform morphology), as observed using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. As the number of layers increased, the crystallinity of PCL/DNA–PPy nanomembranes decreased, as observed using X-ray diffraction. It was observed that the PPy-DNA deposited on the surface of PCL connected to form a nano-sheath and significantly increased the thermal stability of PCL. Moreover, the contact angle of the PCL/DNA-PPy nanomembrane (contact angle of pure PCL: 79.3 ± 1.2°) demonstrated its high hydrophilicity. The results indicate that the composites showed very good survival in a cytotoxicity test on U-118 glioma cells and excellent electrical conductivity (the highest value was 1.1 × 10−3 S/m). The manufactured PCL/DNA–PPy nanomembranes are considered to be promising materials for applications in the scaffold, sensor, and electronic fields.
Does Speculation Belong in Social Science Research?
Authors: Swedberg Richard
Published: April 2018

This article addresses the following question: Can speculation be used in social science research or should this not be an option? The secondary literature on speculation, which is minimal, is presented and discussed. It is noted that natural scientists often differentiate between a scientific form of speculation and the old metaphysical form of speculation. Following the lead of Charles Lave and James March in An Introduction to Models in the Social Sciences, close attention is also paid to the kind of speculation that is part of ordinary research, as opposed to the extraordinary type of speculation that can be found in the work of geniuses like Newton or Galileo. An attempt is then made to outline situations in which it is not only helpful but also necessary to speculate in social science. It is concluded that speculation is an important tool for social scientists if used with caution.
Multicultural digital media practices of 1.5-generation Korean immigrants in Canada
Authors: Yoon Kyong
Published: April 2018

Drawing on qualitative interviews conducted in Toronto, Canada, this study examines how the young adult children of Korean immigrants, also known as 1.5-generation immigrants, explore multicultural senses of belonging and identity through digital media practices. This study reveals that although young immigrants’ capabilities to choose from different forms of cultural content may be enhanced by digital media, they may be subject to structural forces, such as offline ethnic segregation. That is, young immigrants may enjoy digital media as a multicultural facilitator in one sense but question its contribution to multicultural senses of identity in another.
Mechanical parameter identification of two-mass drive system based on variable forgetting factor recursive least squares method
Authors: Ke Chen , Wu Ai , Bing Chen
Published: April 2018

Alternating current (AC) motor drive systems are widely used and their performances are greatly affected by motor parameters and load disturbances, so it is necessary to identify and observe their moment of inertia, the viscous friction coefficient and load torque. This paper presents an identification method combined a Luenberger observer and the variable forgetting factor recursive least squares method (FFRLSM), which does not require the torque sensor but a position encoder and can identify the moment of inertia of the drive system, the viscous friction coefficient, and the load torque, simultaneously. The Luenberger observer takes the position and the actual current to estimate speed and angular position. This information, together with variable FFRLSM is used to identify the moment of inertia, viscous friction coefficient and load torque. The identified moment of inertia of the system is substituted into the Luenberger observer model to correct the error of the system model. According to a probability density function of a normal distribution, the proposed method estimates the identification target in a short time, with stable and high identification precision. Finally, a comparison is made between the proposed algorithm and the FFRLSM. Results show that the proposed identification method achieves intended purpose and promise application values with its short consuming-time and high identification accuracy.
Analysis of gender, age and disability representation in music education textbooks: A research update
Authors: Bernabé-Villodre Mª del Mar , Martínez-Bello Vladimir E.
Published: April 2018

According to International and European Law, teachers are encouraged to analyse, challenge and to help to eliminate sexist stereotypes and distortions in curricular materials. We aimed to characterize and compare the efficacy of implementation of the gender equality-based approach in the Spanish educational system, through a content analysis of the illustrations in music education (ME) textbooks following a coding scheme constructed by the research team according to guidelines from previous studies about the depiction of women and girls in ME textbooks during two periods of Spanish democracy: before (1992–2005); and after (2006–2015). Our major findings were: (a) female characters were under-represented in both time periods studied; (b); the stereotype of women as amateur but not professional musicians is not perpetuated in the current primary ME textbooks; (c) both children and adults independently of gender were portrayed interacting with others; (d) despite the fact that women teachers are actively participating in schools, ME textbooks do not faithfully reflect that reality; and (e) the virtual absence of females and males with disabilities suggests that this aspect of inclusion is still pending. Notwithstanding, ME textbooks printed after 2006 tended to challenge some traditional stereotypes pertaining to how females and males think, play and act within the musical world.
ClariVein™ – One year results of mechano-chemical ablation for varicose veins in a multi-ethnic Asian population from Singapore
Authors: Khor Shao N , Lei Jiang , Kam Jia W , Kum Steven , Tan Yih K , Tang Tjun Y
Published: April 2018

Objectives

This study assessed the effectiveness and patient experience of ClariVein for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in a multi-ethnic Asian population from Singapore.

Methods

A total of 121 patients underwent mechano-chemical ablation. Patients were reviewed at an interval of one week, and at 3, 6 and 12 months post procedure and underwent Duplex ultrasound with patient satisfaction assessment.

Results

At three months of follow-up, the great saphenous vein and short saphenous vein occlusion rates were 90.8% and 96.0%, respectively. At six months of follow–up, the GSV and short saphenous vein occlusion rates were 86.9% and 90.9%, respectively. At one year, great saphenous vein and short saphenous vein occlusion rates were 84.8% and 94.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Early results are similar to what is described so far in the mechano-chemical ablation literature but recurrences are more than expected at one year. This is disappointing but is tempered by the fact that the majority of patients were asymptomatic and required no reintervention.
D-dimer from central and peripheral blood samples in asymptomatic central venous catheter-related thrombosis in patients with cancer
Authors: Nañez-Terreros Homero , Jaime-Perez Jose C , Muñoz-Espinoza Linda E , Camara-Lemaroy Carlos R , Ornelas-Cortinas Gerardo E , Ramos-Dena Ricardo D , Gonzalez-Guerrero Juan F , Nangullasmu-Plasencia Tomas , Gonzalez-Escamilla Moises , Chipuli-Lopez Osvaldo
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the usefulness of a negative D-dimer in peripheral or central venous blood to screen for asymptomatic catheter-related thrombosis in cancer patients.

Methods

D-dimer was measured in blood from central venous catheter and peripheral venous samples in 48 patients with cancer. Asymptomatic catheter-related thrombosis was identified via Doppler ultrasound. Bland and Altman’s limits of agreement analysis was used to compare sample sites. Sensitivity and specificity of D-dimer was calculated.

Results

Overall, 33 of the central samples and 32 of the peripheral samples had D-dimer levels below the cutoff (≥0.3 mg/l). Mean central D-dimer was 0.31 ± 0.35 mg/l; peripheral 0.24 ± 0.22 mg/l (p = 0.5). Bland–Altman plot showed that the two sample sites were not equivalent. Catheter-related thrombosis was demonstrated in five patients, and there were three false negatives. Peripheral D-dimer had a negative predictive value of 90.9%.

Conclusions

A negative D-dimer may be useful for screening asymptomatic catheter-related thrombosis in patients with cancer, but the central and peripheral sample sites are not equivalent.
Prevalence and determinants of physical activity and sedentary behaviour before and up to 12 months after total knee replacement: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Hodges Alison , Harmer Alison R , Dennis Sarah , Nairn Lillias , March Lyn , Crawford Ross , Parker David , Fransen Marlene
Published: April 2018

Objective:

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and determinants of inadequate physical activity and excessive sedentary behaviour before and after total knee replacement.

Design, setting and subjects:

Secondary analysis was performed on data from a cohort of 422 adults (45–74 years), drawn from 12 public or private hospitals, undergoing primary unilateral or bilateral total knee replacement surgery.

Main measures:

Questionnaires were used to determine the presence of inadequate physical activity and excessive sedentary behaviour before and 6  and 12 months after total knee replacement surgery. Knee pain, activity limitations, comorbidities, muscle strength, psychological well-being, fatigue, sleep and body mass index were measured/assessed as possible determinants of physical activity or sedentary behaviour.

Results:

Before surgery, 77% ( n = 326) of the cohort participated in inadequate physical activity according to World Health Organization guidelines, and 60% ( n = 253) engaged in excessive sedentary behaviour. Twelve months after surgery, 53% ( n = 185) of the cohort engaged in inadequate physical activity and 45% ( n = 157) in excessive sedentary behaviour. Inadequate physical activity before surgery ( P = 0.02), obesity ( P = 0.07) and comorbidity score >6 ( P = 0.04) predicted inadequate physical activity 12 months after surgery. Excessive sedentary behaviour and activity limitations before surgery predicted excessive sedentary behaviour 12 months after surgery.

Conclusion:

Although there were improvements after total knee replacement, 12 months after surgery about half the cohort did not meet World Health Organization recommendations for activity. Pre-surgery assessment of physical activity, activity limitations, sedentary behaviour and body mass index is essential to identify patients at risk for long-term inactivity.
Acute chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in children with cancer: Still waiting for a common consensus on treatment
Authors: Ruggiero Antonio , Rizzo Daniela , Catalano Martina , Coccia Paola , Triarico Silvia , Attiná Giorgio
Published: April 2018

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most common treatment side-effects, and remains a significant concern, in children undergoing chemotherapy. Although adult patients receive chemotherapy regimens combined with appropriate standardized antiemetic treatment, children can receive markedly varying antiemetic treatments. A narrative review of CINV was performed regarding CINV definition, scoring system, prevention and treatment, specifically focussing on studies conducted with paediatric oncology patients. The review highlighted a lack of rigorously developed CINV scoring systems and standardized CINV pharmacological treatment for paediatric oncology patients. Different scoring systems were found to identify potential risk factors for CINV associated with the use of several different antiemetic drugs, however, few studies have been performed in children undergoing chemotherapy. Thus, CINV remains a distressing and partially controlled side-effect in the paediatric patient population. To reduce emesis and improve quality of life in paediatric oncology patients, standardized antiemetic treatment may be preferred, using a unique CINV scoring system that accounts for the emetogenic level of the chemotherapy regimen adopted and the children’s clinical characteristics.
Failure to place a tunneled hemodialysis catheter due to malformation of right internal jugular vein draining to subclavian vein
Authors: Zhu Li-na , Mou Li-jun , Ying-Hu  , Wei Gui-na , Sun Jun-feng
Published: April 2018

The right internal jugular vein (IJV) is an important access site for hemodialysis catheterization. Venous cannulation failure is usually caused by central venous stenosis and is rarely related to vessel malformation. We herein present a case of failure to place a tunneled hemodialysis catheter into the right IJV. The patient had an arteriovenous fistula in the right arm with inadequate flow and a history of multiple central venous catheterizations. The guidewire was repeatedly misplaced into the right subclavian vein (SV) regardless of the technique used. Computed tomography venography revealed that the inferior segment of the right IJV drained into the ipsilateral SV. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of catheterization failure due to abnormal drainage of the right IJV into the ipsilateral SV.
The need for a patient-tailored Helicobacter pylori eradication protocol prior to bariatric surgery
Authors: Pintar Tadeja , Kaliterna Niko , Carli Tanja
Published: April 2018

Objective

High-quality data indicating the advantages of preoperative Helicobacter pylori screening and eradication as well the clinical outcomes of patients with and without H. pylori after bariatric surgery are lacking.

Methods

In total, 96 morbidly obese patients with H. pylori preparing for bariatric surgery were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Of 96 biopsy specimens, 73 (76%) were positive for H. pylori on initial Giemsa staining. These patients were treated with the standard 7-day antibiotic treatment protocol corrected by the individual patient’s creatinine clearance rate and body mass index and received a 30% higher dose because of their H. pylori positivity. A linear correlation was found between the effective antibiotic dose and the BMI with a recurrence rate of only 2.1% (2/96 patients). The preoperative percent estimated weight loss before surgery (17%) and in the first year of follow-up (68%–88%) was statistically equal between H. pylori-positive and -negative patients. Two early postoperative infectious complications and two postoperative surgical complications occurred in the preoperatively H. pylori-positive patients.

Conclusions

A patient-tailored H. pylori eradication protocol prior to bariatric surgery is mandatory to improve the eradication rate and reduce the incidence of postoperative complications in mostly asymptomatic H. pylori-positive bariatric candidates.
Child’s quality of life and mother’s burden in spastic cerebral palsy: a topographical classification perspective
Authors: Ozkan Yasemin
Published: April 2018

Objective

To evaluate the child’s quality of life (QoL), mother’s burden, and correlation between these parameters in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

Children with spastic CP (n = 120; mean age: 8.64 ± 3.45 years; range: 2–17 years) were classified into three groups of diplegia, hemiplegia, and quadriplegia based on topographical classification. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory and Zarit Burden Interview were used to determine the child’s QoL and the mother’s burden scores, respectively.

Results

Children’s QoL scores were lower in the quadriplegia group than in the hemiplegia and diplegia groups (except for emotional functioning). The mother’s burden was lower in the quadriplegia group than in the other groups, and it was lower in the diplegia group than in the hemiplegia group. Increases in children’s QoL scores were associated with decreases in the mothers’ burden scores.

Conclusion

Children’s QoL is associated with the mother’s burden in spastic CP, and quadriplegic children and their mothers are more affected. The burden of mothers ranked the highest in the quadriplegia group, followed by the diplegia group and the hemiplegia group. Topographical classification is a good indicator for children’s QoL and the mother’s burden in spastic CP.
Environmental values, knowledge and behaviour: Contributions of an emergent literature on the role of ethnicity and migration
Authors: Head Lesley , Klocker Natascha , Aguirre-Bielschowsky Ikerne
Published: April 2018

Amidst calls for paradigm shifts in environmental scholarship, we track an emergent literature on how environmental values, knowledge and behaviour (EVKB) change (or not) with the migration process. We focus on the role of Majority World migrants to the Minority World. Large-scale survey research into EVKB is beginning to consider both ethnicity and migration history as important variables, but tends to leave the concepts of environment and environmental behaviour unexamined. Western EVKB indicators thus tend to be universalized rather than understood as themselves culturally specific. An emergent literature attempts to improve both quantitative and qualitative research on EVKB by broadening the conceptualization of environmental behaviour to include the practices of Majority World migrants. Those studies throw new light on the process of acculturation as having disruptive or solidifying potential for sustainable practices. We summarize four implications for future research. There is a need to go beyond western logics in research design and method. Straightforward assumptions about the ‘pro’ in pro-environmental behaviour need to be challenged. Cases of EVKB’s persistence post-migration and positive influence on the broader population should be sought out and examined. The migration process provides real-time experiments in enacting alternative worlds.
Very high volume fly ash green concrete for applications in India
Authors: Yu Jing , Mishra Dhanada K , Wu Chang , Leung Christopher KY
Published: April 2018

Safe disposal of fly ash generated by coal-based thermal power plants continues to pose significant challenges around the world and in India in particular. Green structural concrete with 80% cement replaced by local Chinese fly ash has been recently developed to achieve a target characteristic compressive strength of 45 MPa. Such green concrete mixes are not only cheaper in cost, but also embody lower energy and carbon footprint, compared with conventional mixes. This study aims to adopt such materials using no less than 80% fly ash as binder in routine concrete works in countries like India with the commonly used lower target characteristic compressive strength of 30 MPa. It is achieved by the simple and practical method of adjusting the water/binder ratio and/or superplasticiser dosage. The proposed green concrete shows encouraging mechanical properties at 7 days and 28 days, as well as much lower material cost and environmental impact compared with commercial Grade 30 concrete. This technology can play an important role in meeting the huge infrastructure demands in India in a sustainable manner.
Modeling of drop deformation in proximity to an airfoil
Authors: Wu Zhenlong , Lv Benyin , Cao Yihua
Published: April 2018

In this paper, an analytical model is improved to predict the shape deformation of a single drop in proximity to an airfoil on the basis of the Clark model. The model was optimized through the adjustment of the viscous force, surface tension force term, and slip velocity. The performance and applicability of the improved model is tested against the published experimental data and discussed. The prediction accuracy is significantly enhanced with the relative error reduced from above 20% to below 5%, almost reaching an equivalent level to the excellent droplet ratio deformation (DRD) model proposed by others previously.
A Rose by Any Other Name? A Subtle Linguistic Cue Impacts Anger and Corresponding Policy Support in Intractable Conflict
Authors: Idan Orly , Halperin Eran , Hameiri Boaz , Reifen Tagar Michal
Published: April 2018

Given the central role of anger in shaping adversarial policy preferences in the context of intergroup conflict, its reduction may promote conflict resolution. In the current work, we drew on psycholinguistic research on the role of language in generating emotions to explore a novel, extremely subtle means of intervention. Specifically, we hypothesized that phrasing conflict-relevant policies in noun form (vs. verb form) would reduce anger and impact policy support correspondingly. Results across three experimental studies in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict supported these expectations for both support for concessions (Studies 1–3) and retaliatory policies (Study 3), with reduction in anger mediating the salutary impact of noun form (vs. verb form) on policy support. These results expand our understanding of the influence of language on emotions and policies in the context of conflict and have applied relevance for conflict-resolution efforts.
Austerity and public sector trade union power: Before and after the crisis
Authors: Schmidt Werner , Müller Andrea , Ramos-Vielba Irene , Thörnquist Annette , Thörnqvist Christer
Published: April 2018

We use a power resources approach to examine the effects of the 2008–2009 financial and economic crisis on public sector trade union power in Germany, Spain, Sweden and the UK, comparing structural, organizational, institutional, societal and political power resources before and after the crisis. Unions’ power resources have (at least temporarily) weakened in Spain, with a similar but less pronounced trend in the UK; whereas in Sweden and Germany, one can detect ambiguous but slightly positive signals, which reflect neither the crisis nor opposition to austerity. As well as structural, organizational and institutional power resources, societal and political resources are decisive for public sector trade unions.
Exosomes and Stem Cells in Degenerative Disease Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsun , Wu Kung-Chi , Harn Horng-Jyh , Lin Shinn-Zong , Ding Dah-Ching
Published: April 2018

Stroke can cause death and disability, resulting in a huge burden on society. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor dysfunction. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage destruction and osteophyte formation in the joints. Stem cell therapy may provide a biological treatment alternative to traditional pharmacological therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are preferred because of their differentiation ability and possible derivation from many adult tissues. In addition, the paracrine effects of MSCs play crucial anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive roles in immune cells. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are vital mediators of cell-to-cell communication. Exosomes contain various molecules such as microRNA (miRNA), which mediates biological functions through gene regulation. Therefore, exosomes carrying miRNA or other molecules can enhance the therapeutic effects of MSC transplantation. MSC-derived exosomes have been investigated in various animal models representing stroke, PD, and OA. Exosomes are a subtype of EVs. This review article focuses on the mechanism and therapeutic potential of MSC-derived exosomes in stroke, PD, and OA in basic and clinical aspects.
Effects of Moxibustion on the Levels of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1
Authors: Lin Jaung-Geng , Lin Shinn-Zong , Lin Lih-Hwa , Wu Chun-Chang , Tsai Wan-Ting , Harn Horng-Jyh , Su Li-Hui , Ho Wen-Yu , Hsieh Che-Jui , Ho Tsung-Jung
Published: April 2018

Moxibustion (艾灸) is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy performed using Artemisia argyii. Zusanli (足三里, ST36) is an acupoint in the stomach meridian, long associated in ancient Chinese medical practices with the extension of life span when moxibustion is applied to it. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels after application of moxibustion to ST36. Four healthy men and women participated in this 28-day trial and were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group A received moxibustion treatment from days 1 to 14, while group B received moxibustion treatment from days 15 to 28. Blood samples were taken 5 times during this study to measure serum IGF-1 (s-IGF-1) levels. The s-IGF-1 levels increased in both groups after 7 and 14 d of moxibustion therapy (group A: 11.02% [7 d] and 29.65% [14 d]; group B: 169.12% [7 d] and 274.85% [14 d]). After moxibustion therapy had been completed (day 14), s-IGF-1 levels continued to increase in group A (increases on day 21 and day 28 were 53.19% and 61.45%, respectively). There were no adverse events in either group. The s-IGF-1 levels were significantly raised in both groups after 7 and 14 d of moxibustion therapy. Moreover, once therapy had been completed, s-IGF-1 levels continued to increase in group A up to 14 d after the treatment.
Fighting against Skin Aging
Authors: Zhang Shoubing , Duan Enkui
Published: April 2018

As the most voluminous organ of the body that is exposed to the outer environment, the skin suffers from both intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors. Skin aging is characterized by features such as wrinkling, loss of elasticity, laxity, and rough-textured appearance. This aging process is accompanied with phenotypic changes in cutaneous cells as well as structural and functional changes in extracellular matrix components such as collagens and elastin. In this review, we summarize these changes in skin aging, research advances of the molecular mechanisms leading to these changes, and the treatment strategies aimed at preventing or reversing skin aging.
The regulation of stem cell research in Ireland: From the Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction to the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill 2017
Authors: Staunton Ciara
Published: April 2018

In 2005, Ireland’s Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction (CAHR) published a comprehensive report on the regulation of assisted reproduction and associated technologies. Yet since that report, successive Irish governments have failed to bring forth any legislation on this matter. This legislative inaction has resulted in a situation whereby the embryo in vivo has the right to life under the Irish Constitution, but embryos in vitro have no protection in law. Irish policymakers have also endorsed and funded embryonic stem cell research (ESCR) at a European level but continue to prevent researchers in Ireland from accessing any public funds for this research. The publication in October 2017 of the General Scheme of the Assisted Human Reproduction Bill 2017 is thus a welcome development. However, further reading of the Bill reveals that it is restrictive in nature and is likely to stifle research in Ireland. This article will discuss the legal, ethical and scientific developments that have occurred since the CAHR report and the impact, if any, they have had on the development of this Bill. It will critically reflect on provisions of the Bill as they relate to ESCR and make a number of suggestions for reform.
Effects of Menopausal Symptoms and Depression on the Quality of Life of Premenopausal Women With Breast Cancer in Korea
Authors: Han Jeong Ae , Choi So Young , Lee Seonah
Published: April 2018

Introduction: As breast cancer survivors have increased, improving quality of life of the survivors becomes an important issue. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships among menopausal symptoms, depression, and quality of life and to identify the factors affecting the quality of life in premenopausal women with breast cancer. Method: This was a descriptive, correlational study using structured questionnaires for 90 premenopausal women with breast cancer attending the outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Korea. Results: Menopausal symptoms ( r = −0.770, p < .001) and depression ( r = −0.715, p < .001) negatively affected the participants’ quality of life. The major factors affecting quality of life were employment ( t = −2.065, p = .042), depression ( t = −2.375, p = .020), and menopausal symptoms ( t = −3.863, p < .001). Menopausal symptoms were the strongest negative factor (β = −.508) affecting quality of life. Discussion and Conclusions: Developing nursing intervention congruent with the culture of Korean breast cancer women with treatment-induced menopausal symptoms is a high priority.
Gender Differences in Employment Among People With Disabilities in China
Authors: Wang Cuntong , Li Min
Published: April 2018

The gender-specific pattern in employment among people with disabilities in China is unclear. This study examines gender differences among people with disabilities in China’s job market using multilevel models. The findings suggest that there are statistically significant gender differences in employment among people with disabilities. It is more likely for men with disabilities to be employed than for women with disabilities. Other individual- and household-level factors including disability type, severity of disability, and household income are also significantly related to the employment of people with disabilities. Effects of these factors on employment are similar among men and women with disabilities, except that household income and being married show stronger relationships with employment among men with disabilities than women. Policy effort should be made not only to advance the employment opportunities of people with disabilities but also to promote gender equality in employment.
Relationships Among Race/Ethnicity, Gender, and Mental Health Status in Patient–Provider Interactions
Authors: Deb Shreyasi , Miller Nancy A.
Published: April 2018

Patient–provider interactions are associated with improved health outcomes and are of particular importance to individuals with mental health disabilities. We examine the relation between having a severe mental health–related disability (SMD) and patient–provider interactions and whether this is moderated by patient race/ethnicity and gender. We pooled Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data over multiple years and used multivariate techniques to examine the relation between having a SMD, race/ethnicity and gender and four measures of patient/provider interactions (e.g., being treated with respect). Adults with SMD had significantly higher relative risks (RRs) of reporting poorer interactions across measures. Although some effects of race/ethnicity and gender were observed, they did not moderate SMD. Individuals with Medicaid coverage or no health insurance had higher RRs of poorer interactions, while individuals with a person as a usual source of care had lower RRs. Incorporating these process measures of care into national quality initiatives may foster improved interactions. Continued policy support of models of care such as medical homes may enhance interactions as well.
Optimal placement and active vibration control for piezoelectric smart flexible manipulators using modal H2 norm
Authors: Lu En , Li Wei , Yang Xuefeng , Wang Yuqiao , Liu Yufei
Published: April 2018

The optimal placement and active vibration control for piezoelectric smart single flexible manipulator are investigated in this study. Based on the assumed mode method and Hamilton’s principle, the dynamic equation of the piezoelectric smart single flexible manipulator is established. Then, the singular perturbation method is adopted and the coupled dynamic equation is decomposed into slow (rigid) and fast (flexible) subsystems. After that, the couple optimal placement criterion of piezoelectric actuators is proposed on the base of modal H2 norm of the fast subsystem and the change rate of natural frequencies. Using an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm, the optimal placement of piezoelectric actuators is realized. Subsequently, in order to verify the validity and feasibility of the presented optimal placement criterion, the composite controller is designed for the active vibration control of the piezoelectric smart single flexible manipulator. Finally, numerical simulations and experiments are presented. The results demonstrate that the piezoelectric smart single flexible manipulator system has a better single modal controllability and observability and has a good result on the vibration suppression using the optimization results of actuators. The proposed optimal placement criterion and method are feasible and effective.
Theoretical modeling and analysis of a 2-degree-of-freedom hybrid piezoelectric–electromagnetic vibration energy harvester with a driven beam
Authors: Zhao Dan , Liu Shaogang , Xu Qingtao , Sun Wenyi , Wang Tao , Cheng Qianju
Published: April 2018

In the article, a novel 2-degree-of-freedom hybrid piecewise-linear piezoelectric–electromagnetic vibration energy harvester is presented to achieve better energy harvesting efficiency. The harvester consists of a primary piezoelectric energy harvesting device to which an electromagnetic mechanism is coupled to improve the integral energy output, and a driven beam is mounted to broaden the operating bandwidth by inducing nonlinearity. Considering the piezoelectric–electromagnetic coupling characteristics and the nonlinear factors, dynamic equations of the system are established. Expressions of the output power are deduced though averaging method. Characteristic parameters are analyzed theoretically, including the piezoelectric parameters, electromagnetic parameters, and the piecewise-linearity. Frequency sweep excitation test is conducted on the setup at an excitation acceleration of 0.3 g and results demonstrate that two resonant regions are obtained with the peak output power of 5.4 and 6.49 mW, respectively, and the operating bandwidth is increased by 8 Hz. Moreover, though adjusting the stiffness of the driven beam k3 and the gap between the primary beam and the driven beam d, the performance of the harvester can be further optimized.
Individual- and School-Level Factors Contributing to Disproportionate Suspension Rates: A Multilevel Analysis of One State
Authors: Camacho Kristine A. , Krezmien Michael P.
Published: April 2018

Data from middle schools ( n = 219), high schools ( n = 200), and combined middle and high schools ( n = 20) were used to examine individual- and school-level factors within a multilevel model associated with an increased risk of suspension for minority students and students with disabilities. Results indicate that the individual-level variables of race and disability status were associated with an increased risk of suspension. Multiple school-level factors were also found to be associated with an increased risk of suspension including school enrollment, attendance, mobility, the percent of highly qualified teachers, the percent of students receiving free and reduced priced meals, the percent of students receiving special education services, the school’s Title I status, the student-to-teacher ratio, English Language Arts state exam scores, and the percent of White students in the school. In both analyses, the majority of variance was associated with the multilevel model which indicates the importance of examining individual factors within the context of school-level factors when trying to understand and respond to disproportionate suspension practices.
Fundraising for Favors? Linking Lobbyist-Hosted Fundraisers to Legislative Benefits
Authors: McKay Amy Melissa
Published: April 2018

Do legislators and lobbyists trade favors? This study uses uncommon data sources and plagiarism software to detect a rarely observed relationship between interest group lobbyists and sitting Members of Congress. Comparison of letters to a Senate committee written by lobby groups to legislative amendments introduced by committee members reveals similar and even identical language, providing compelling evidence that groups persuaded legislators to introduce amendments valued by the group. Moreover, the analysis suggests that these language matches are more likely when the requesting lobby group hosts a fundraising event for the senator. The results hold while controlling for ideological agreement between the senator and the group, the group’s campaign contributions to the senator, and the group’s lobbying expenditures, annual revenue, and home-state connections.
Politicized Science Communication: Predicting Scientists’ Acceptance of Overstatements by Their Knowledge Certainty, Media Perceptions, and Presumed Media Effects
Authors: Post Senja , Ramirez Natalia
Published: April 2018

Partisans in mediated conflicts usually perceive hostile news media, anticipate undesired media effects, and intend to engage discursively. It is hypothesized that hostile media perceptions also encourage polarizing communication. This is tested for scientists involved in a politicized science dispute. German climate scientists ( n = 131) firmly believe in anthropogenic global warming (AGW). Yet not all dismiss alternative hypotheses altogether. Results indicate that the more certain climate scientists are of AGW, the more they perceive that the news media downplay AGW and presume that the media nourish politicians’ doubts about it. This explains their justifications of overstatements of scientific findings in public.
Concurrent progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and central nervous system infiltration by multiple myeloma: A case report
Authors: Ruiz-Heredia Yanira , Sanchez-Vega Beatriz , Barrio Santiago , Linares María , Rapado Inmaculada , Braggio Esteban , Stewart Keith , Folgueira M Dolores , Ramos Ana , Collado Luis , Ruiz Juan , Toldos Oscar , Hernandez-Lain Aurelio , Martinez-Lopez Joaquin
Published: April 2018

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy rarely occurs in patients with multiple myeloma. Intracranial central nervous system invasion is also an uncommon event in multiple myeloma, occurring in less than 1% of cases. We describe herein an exceptional case of coexisting progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and intraparenchymal central nervous system myeloma infiltration. A 73-year-old woman with relapsed multiple myeloma was treated with 15 cycles of lenalidomide and dexamethasone, but therapy had to be stopped because of a hip fracture after a fall. During hospitalization, the patient developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy caused by John Cunningham virus, and a prominent intra-parenchymal CD138-positive infiltrate was detected. VDJ rearrangements of the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene and the mutational profile of plasma cells in bone marrow at the time of diagnosis and in brain biopsy after progression were analyzed by next generation sequencing, showing genetic differences between medullary and extramedullary myeloma cells. The role of long-term treatment with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in the development progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy or intraparenchymal central nervous system myeloma infiltration remains unknown. However, our results suggest that both events may have arisen as a consequence of treatment-related immunosuppression. Thus, an appropriate clinical approach compatible with the simultaneous treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy and multiple myeloma should be developed.
Nonlocal axial vibration of the multiple Bishop nanorod system
Authors: Karličić Danilo Z , Ayed Sadoon , Flaieh Enass
Published: April 2018

Construction of reliable dynamic models of nanostructures is an important task for design procedures of different nanoresonator devices. Such theoretical models allow as to perform different numerical experiments, which is the key point in the development of advanced nanodevices. This paper presents a new nanoresonator model based on the axial vibration of the elastic multi-nanorod system. It is assumed that the system of multiple nanorods is embedded in an elastic medium. The governing equations of motion of a coupled multi-nanorod system are derived using the Hamilton’s principle, the nonlocal elastic constitutive relation, and Bishop’s rod theory, where effects of inertia of the lateral motion and the shear stiffness are considered. Exact closed form solutions for natural frequencies are obtained for one and multiple nanorod systems with different boundary conditions. Then, results for natural frequencies obtained by the finite difference method are compared with the results obtained analytically. Effects of nonlocal parameter, different rod theories, number of nanorods and stiffness coefficient of an elastic medium on natural frequencies are examined through several numerical examples.
Computational homogenization in linear elasticity of peristatic periodic structure composites
Authors: Buryachenko Valeriy A.
Published: April 2018

A composite material (CM) of periodic structure with the peristatic properties of constituents, as proposed by Silling, is analyzed by a generalization of the classical locally elastic computational homogenization to its peristatic counterpart. New volumetric periodic boundary conditions (PBCs) are introduced at the interaction boundary of a representative unit cell (UC). A generalization of the Hill’s equality to peristatic composites is proved. The general results establishing the links between the effective moduli and the corresponding mechanical influence functions are obtained. The discretization of the equilibrium equation acts as a macro-to-micro transition of the deformation-driven type, where the overall deformation is controlled. Determination of the microstructural displacements allows one to estimate the peristatic traction at the geometrical UC’s boundary, which is exploited for estimation of the macroscopic stresses and the effective moduli. The proposed approach is demonstrated computationally through one-dimensional examples.
On the homogenization of a nonlinear shell
Authors: Pruchnicki Erick
Published: April 2018

In this paper we propose a multiscale finite-strain shell theory for simulating the mechanical response of a highly heterogeneous shell of varying thickness. To resolve this issue, a higher-order stress-resultant shell formulation based on multiscale homogenization is considered. At the macroscopic scale level, we approximate the displacement field by a fifth-order Taylor–Young expansion in thickness. We take account of the microscale fluctuations by introducing a boundary value problem over the domain of a three-dimensional representative volume element (RVE). The geometrical form and the dimensions of the RVE are determined by the representative microstructure of the heterogeneity. In this way, an in-plane homogenization is directly combined with a through thickness stress integration. As a result, the macroscopic stress resultants are the volume averages through RVE of microscopic stress. All microstructural constituents are modeled as first-order continua and three-dimensional continuum, described by the standard equilibrium and the constitutive equations. This type of theory is anxiously awaited.
Student intention to engage in leisure-time physical activity: The interplay of task-involving climate, competence need satisfaction and psychobiosocial states in physical education
Authors: Di Battista Rossana , Robazza Claudio , Ruiz Montse C , Bertollo Maurizio , Vitali Francesca , Bortoli Laura
Published: April 2018

Grounded in achievement goal theory and basic psychological needs theory, the aim of this study was to examine the impact of the interaction of perceived motivational climate in physical education with psychological needs satisfaction (relatedness, competence and autonomy) and psychobiosocial states on student intention to engage in leisure-time physical activity. Participants ( N = 470 Italian students, 287 boys and 183 girls, aged 16–19 years) completed the Teacher-Initiated Motivational Climate in Physical Education Questionnaire, the Psychological Needs Satisfaction Scale in Physical Education, the Psychobiosocial States Questionnaire, and a measure of intention to engage in leisure-time physical activity. Structural equation modelling analysis indicated that a perceived task-involving climate was related to intention to engage in physical activity through the serial mediation of competence need satisfaction and pleasant/functional psychobiosocial states. The findings highlight the importance of task-involving climate and competence need satisfaction in determining pleasant emotional states and, consequently, in promoting leisure-time physical activity. Teachers should apply curricular and pedagogical strategies that aim to create a task-involving motivational climate, make movement experiences personally meaningful and pleasant and therefore stimulate students to adopt an active lifestyle.
The relationship between frequency of performance and perceived importance of health behaviours
Authors: Nudelman Gabriel , Ivanova Eliza
Published: April 2018

The relationship between performance of health behaviours and their perceived importance was examined among 250 adults. Frequency of performance and perceived importance of 21 health behaviours, self-assessed health and the Big Five personality traits were measured. As expected, importance and performance were positively correlated. Self-assessed health was more strongly associated with performance than importance, and a model wherein importance affects performance, which in turn affects self-assessed health, was superior to a model wherein performance affects importance. The Big Five significantly explained performance, particularly conscientiousness, and importance explained performance beyond this effect. Consequently, importance perceptions should be considered when developing behavioural interventions.