bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Climatology and Predictability of Mid-Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Landfalls in a High-Atmospheric-Resolution Seasonal Prediction System
Authors: Manganello Julia V. , Cash Benjamin A. , Swenson Erik T. , Kinter III James L.
Published: June 2019

Tropical cyclone (TC) landfalls over the U.S. mid-Atlantic region, which include the so-called Sandy-like, or westward-curving, tracks, are among the most infrequent landfalls along the U.S. East Coast. However, when these events do occur, the resulting economic and societal consequences can be devastating. A recent example is Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Multimodel ensemble seasonal hindcasts conducted with a high-atmospheric-resolution coupled prediction system based on the ECMWF operational model (Project Minerva) are used here to compile the statistics of these rare events. Minerva hindcasts are found to exhibit skill in reproducing climatological characteristics of the mid-Atlantic TC landfalls particularly at the highest atmospheric horizontal spectral resolution of T1279 (16-km grid spacing). Historical forecasts are further interrogated to identify regional and large-scale environmental conditions associated with these rare TC tracks to better quantify their predictability on synoptic time scales, and their dependence on model resolution. Evolution of the large-scale atmospheric flow patterns leading to mid-Atlantic TC landfalls is analyzed using local finite-amplitude wave activity (LWA). We have identified large-amplitude quasi-stationary features in the LWA and sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly distributions that persist up to about a week leading to these land-falling events. A statistical model utilizing indices based on the LWA and SST anomalies as predictors is developed that exhibits skill (mostly at T1279) in predicting mid-Atlantic TC landfalls several days in advance. Implications of these results for longer time-scale predictions of mid-Atlantic TC landfalls including climate change projections are discussed.
Preparing for Doris: Exploring Public Responses to Impact-Based Weather Warnings in the United Kingdom
Authors: Taylor Andrea L. , Kause Astrid , Summers Barbara , Harrowsmith Melanie
Published: June 2019

In the United Kingdom, the Met Office issues regionally calibrated impact-based weather warnings. These aim to reduce harm to people and property. To decrease risk from severe weather, it is important to understand how members of the U.K. public interpret and act on these warnings. This paper addresses this through a postevent survey (n = 552) conducted following Storm Doris, a 2017 winter storm during which wind warnings were issued across much of the United Kingdom. Survey questions examined 1) understanding of impact-based wind warnings, 2) interpretation of local warning level, 3) predictors of perceived local risk (likelihood, impact severity, concern) implied by warnings, 4) predictors of trust in the forecast, and 5) predictors of recalled and anticipated action. Our findings indicate that U.K. residents generally understand that weather warnings are based on potential weather impacts, although many do not realize warnings are regionally calibrated. We also find that while local warning levels are rarely underestimated, they may sometimes be overestimated. Institutional trust in the Met Office and perceived vulnerability to weather predict both perceived risk and behavioral response, while warning “understandability” is linked to greater trust in the forecast. Strikingly, while differences in local warning levels influenced risk perception, they did not affect recalled or intended behavioral response. This study highlights the importance of institutional trust in the effective communication of severe weather warnings, and a need for education on impact-based weather warnings. Above all, it demonstrates the need for further exploration of the effect of weather warnings on protective behavior.
Medication Safety at Home: A Qualitative Study on Caregivers of Chronically Ill Children in Malaysia
Authors: Chew Chii-Chii , HSS Amar-Singh , Chan Huan-Keat , Hassali Mohamed Azmi
Published: June 2019

Introduction: Medication errors are more likely to occur in chronically ill children, who are highly dependent on caregivers for medication administration. This study aimed to explore the issues related to medication safety among pediatric outpatients in Malaysia from the caregivers’ perspective. Methods: This was a qualitative study conducted between May and June 2018 at a pediatric clinic of a regional referral hospital. Caregivers of children who (1) were under 6 years of age and (2) had hypothyroidism, epilepsy, thalassemia, asthma, or other chronic diseases were recruited via purposive sampling. Each selected disease was represented by at least 3 caregivers, who were identified from the medical records of their children. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with each of them, facilitated by a semi-structured interview guide. All the interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. Results: A total of 15 mothers with a median age of 34 years were interviewed. Three themes emerged from the interviews: (I) actual experiences with medication errors, (II) underlying risk factors for medication errors, and (III) recommendations to improve medication safety. Several cases of administration errors, including missed doses and self-decided dose adjustment, were detected. Furthermore, the caregivers were found to have inadequate understanding of the medications in general. Conclusions: While children were shown to be consistently exposed to medication errors at home in Malaysia, the recommendations of the caregivers, including the use of written instructions and a diary, could be effective strategies to improve the out-of-hospital medication safety in children.
Will there be blood? Explaining violence during coups d’état
Authors: De Bruin Erica
Published: June 2019

Although just under half of all coup d’état attempts involve fatalities, there has been surprisingly little attention to the conditions under which coups turn violent. Existing research emphasizes the incentives coup plotters have to avoid bloodshed but does not explain the conditions under which violence nonetheless occurs. This article develops a theoretical framework that predicts that the extent of violence that occurs during coup attempts will vary systematically with central features of incumbent regimes and coup plotters. It then tests these predictions using new data on the fatalities associated with 377 coup attempts between 1950 and 2017. Coups against military regimes are found to be less violent than those against civilian dictatorships. This is because military rulers are better able to estimate the likelihood of the coup succeeding and more sensitive to the costs associated with using violence to suppress a coup. Since their post-coup fates tend to be better than those of other authoritarian leaders, they also have fewer incentives to hang on to power at any cost. The analysis also demonstrates that coups led by senior officers involve less bloodshed than those by junior officers and enlisted men. However, coups against rulers that counterbalance their militaries are no more violent than those against rulers that do not. The results shed new light on the dynamics of coup attempts.
Developing Geriatric Training Outcome Assessments in Vision Rehabilitation
Authors: Babcock Judith L. , Goodrich Gregory L. , Head Daniel N. , Boyless James A.
Published: June 2019

This article presents an overview of the development of discipline-specific training outcome assessments for the Veterans Health Administration's Blind Rehabilitation Service. It describes the development of a conceptual foundation, an agenda for the program and the assessment instruments, and summarizes the current developmental status and findings of the evaluation of the assessment instruments.
The Iowa Model for Pediatric Low Vision Services
Authors: Wilkinson Mark E. , Stewart Ian , Trantham Carole S.
Published: June 2019

This article describes the evolution of Iowa's model of low vision care for students with visual impairments. It also reviews the benefits of a transdisciplinary team approach to providing services for children with visual impairments.
Low Vision Rehabilitation: A Comparison of Traditional and Extended Teaching Programs
Authors: Scanlan Judith M. , Cuddeford Joan E.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of the study was to determine the outcomes of a low vision service that made use of an extended period of education when assisting clients with age-related macular degeneration to use low vision devices. Extended teaching time made a significant difference to the experimental group, not only in the ability to read, but in their overall perceptions of the quality of their lives.
Do Residential Schools and Local Education Agencies Collaborate to Improve the Transitions of Students with Visual Impairments?
Authors: Zebehazy Kim , Whitten Elizabeth
Published: June 2019

It is important for residential schools for students with visual impairments to collaborate with students’ local education agencies (LEAs), especially during transitions from one school to another. This study explored whether these schools are collaborating with LEAs, how the collaborative process is defined, what the benefits of such collaboration are, and what changes in the process the schools would like to see.
Head-Mounted Displays: Are They Practical for School-Age Children?
Authors: Geruschat Duane R. , Deremeik James T. , Whited Sharon S.
Published: June 2019

Head-mounted displays (HMDs) for people with low vision are video devices with user-controlled variable magnification and some degree of contrast enhancement. In this preliminary study of visually impaired students in a residential school, HMDs improved acuity and contrast sensitivity, prevented glare, and enhanced performance of near, intermediate, and distance tasks, including mobility. The study also showed that students enjoyed using the devices.
Drivers of Corporate Risk Disclosure in Indian Non-financial Companies: A Longitudinal Approach
Authors: Saggar Ridhima , Singh Balwinder
Published: June 2019

The present study aims to identify the drivers of corporate risk disclosure in the Indian listed non-financial companies over a period of 6 years. A sample of 318 companies from Business Today’s list of top 500 companies has been analyzed using Panel data regression. Multiple theoretical perspectives have been employed such as agency, signaling, stakeholders and political cost theories in explaining the drivers of corporate risk disclosure. The findings provide crucial understanding for the investors, lenders and other prime stakeholders of key drivers of risk disclosure which will assist in the investment decision. The results conclude that corporate governance in the form of large boards, gender diversity in the boardrooms and independent directors on boards are positive drivers of risk information, whereas CEO duality restricts such information which is alarming. Larger, less profitable, low liquid and firms reporting more risk information in the past divulge more information on risk confronted by them. Analogously, the study widens the knowledge in the Indian context which possesses a lot of potentials to attract international investors who are in search of information to demarcate strongly managed companies than their counterparts.
Towards optimal path computation in a simplicial complex
Authors: Bhattacharya Subhrajit
Published: June 2019

Computing optimal path in a configuration space is fundamental to solving motion planning problems in robotics and autonomy. Graph-based search algorithms have been widely used to that end, but they suffer from drawbacks. We present an algorithm for computing the shortest path through a metric simplicial complex that can be used to construct a piece-wise linear discrete model of the configuration manifold. In particular, given an undirected metric graph, G, which is constructed as a discrete representation of an underlying configuration manifold (a larger “continuous” space typically of dimension greater than one), we consider the Rips complex, [Formula: see text], associated with it. Such a complex, and hence shortest paths in it, represent the underlying metric space more closely than what the graph does. Our algorithm requires only a local connectivity-based description of an abstract graph, [Formula: see text], and a cost/length function, [Formula: see text], as inputs. No global information such as an embedding or a global coordinate chart is required. The local nature of the proposed algorithm makes it suitable for configuration spaces of arbitrary topology, geometry, and dimension. We not only develop the search algorithm for computing shortest distances, but we also present a path reconstruction algorithm for explicitly computing the shortest paths through the simplicial complex. The complexity of the presented algorithm is comparable with that of Dijkstra’s search, but, as the results presented in this paper demonstrate, the shortest paths obtained using the proposed algorithm represent the geodesic paths in the original metric space significantly more closely.
New local treatment for photoaging using a formulation containing piroxicam 0.8% and sunscreen
Authors: Mazzeo Mauro , Diluvio Laura , Di Prete Monia , Mazzilli Sara , Garofalo Virginia , Coniglione Filadelfo , Orlandi Augusto , Bianchi Luca , Campione Elena
Published: June 2019

Objective

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by several factors that cause DNA damage and alter the extracellular matrix. The anti-inflammatory drug piroxicam can counteract photocarcinogenesis and photoaging by blocking cyclooxygenases-1 and 2, matrix metalloproteinases, and ornithine decarboxylase, and inducing apoptosis.

Methods

We conducted an open observational study in 50 adults with moderate to severe signs of photoaging treated with a new local formulation of piroxicam 0.8% plus sunscreen for 16 weeks. Photoaging was assessed using a validated dermoscopic photoaging scale. Each patient’s own perception of their skin quality was assessed using a graphic scale.

Results

The new formulation demonstrated a reliable effect on photoaging after 16 weeks, based on improved median dermoscopic photoaging and skin-quality scores. No patients experienced any adverse effects.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence for the safe and effective use of a local piroxicam formulation for the treatment of moderate to severe photoaging.
Novel allyl and propenyl monomers for modification of the bismaleimide resins, with excellent dielectric properties and high glass transition temperatures
Authors: Qu Chunyan , Chang Jiaying , Liu Changwei , Wang Dezhi , Xiao Wanbao , Su Kai , Feng Hao , Li Liaoliao , Zhao Daoxiang , Zheng Shuai , Tang Yao , Fan Xupeng , Jing Jiaqi
Published: June 2019

Two new monomers were prepared by the reaction of 2-allylphenol and 4,4′-biphenyldicarbonyl chloride under different reaction conditions. The monomers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The curing processes of N, N-4,4′-bismaleimidodiphenylmethyene with 4,4′-bis(2-allylphenyl) biphenyldicarbonylate (BABC) and 4,4′-bis(2-propenylphenyl benzoate) ether (BPBE) were studied by rheological analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Melting points of two monomers, BABC and BPBE, are 64°C and 121°C, respectively. The ABMI [4,4′-bis(2-allylphenyl)biphenyl bismaleimide] and PBMI [4,4′-bis(2-propenylphenyl)biphenyl bismaleimide] resins showed exothermic peaks at 233°C and 204°C, respectively. The measured melting points are significantly lower than that of the traditional bismaleimide resin which is modified by allyl bisphenol A. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the materials showed glass transition temperatures of ABMI and PBMI to be in the range of 213–258°C and 302–339°C, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis of the cured resins showed 5% weight loss for ABMI and PMBI at 437°C and 428°C, along with char residues of 35.6–39.5%, respectively, at 800°C under nitrogen atmosphere. Furthermore, dielectric constants of propenyl-modified resins were lower (2.46–3.10) with dissipation factors of 0.0034–0.0036, compared with those of allyl bisphenol A resins.
Experimental and numerical comparisons between finite element method, element-free Galerkin method, and extended finite element method predicted stress intensity factor and energy release rate of cortical bone considering anisotropic bone modelling
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Shitole Pankaj , Ghosh Rajesh , Kumar Rajeev , Gupta Arpan
Published: June 2019

Stress intensity factor and energy release rate are important parameters to understand the fracture behaviour of bone. The objective of this study is to predict stress intensity factor and energy release rate using finite element method, element-free Galerkin method, and extended finite element method and compare these results with the experimentally determined values. For experimental purpose, 20 longitudinally and transversely fractured single-edge notched bend specimens were prepared and tested according to ASTM standard. All specimens were tested using the universal testing machine. For numerical simulations (finite element method, element-free Galerkin method, and extended finite element method), two-dimensional model of cortical bone was developed by assuming plane strain condition. Material properties of the cortical bone were considered as anisotropic and homogeneous. The values obtained through finite element method, element-free Galerkin method, and extended finite element method are well corroborated to experimentally determined values and earlier published data. However, element-free Galerkin method and extended finite element method predict more accurate results as compared to finite element method. In the case of the transversely fractured specimen, the values of stress intensity factor and energy release rate were found to be higher as compared to the longitudinally fractured specimen, which shows consistency with earlier published data. This study also indicates element-free Galerkin method and extended finite element method predicted stress intensity factor and energy release rate results are more close to experimental results as compared to finite element method, and therefore, these methods can be used in the different field of biomechanics, particularly to predict bone fracture.
Study on the optimal lane changing steering input under different road adhesion coefficients
Authors: Zhang Xinglong , Zhao Youqun , Zhang Wenxin , Lin Fen , Zang Liguo
Published: June 2019

To study the influence of road adhesion coefficient on lane changing steering input, vehicle handling inverse dynamics based on hp-adaptive Radau pseudospectral method is proposed in this article. First, a steering inverse dynamics model is established and then the inverse dynamics problem is converted into an optimal control problem. Second, by applying the hp-adaptive Radau pseudospectral method, the optimal control problem is converted into a nonlinear programming problem, which is then solved through sequential quadratic programming. Besides, two contrast verifications are carried out to validate the correctness and advantages of the proposed method. The simulation results show that the obtained control input satisfies the vehicle dynamic constraints. And comparing with Gauss Pseudospectral Method (GPM), hp-adaptive Radau pseudospectral method has higher computational accuracy and computational efficiency when solving non-smooth problem. The study of optimal steering input can provide guidance for driver’s lane changing behavior, so that the accident rate caused by human factors can be decreased. The proposed method can provide a reference value into the active safety of manned and unmanned vehicles.
Mechanical properties of jute fiber–reinforced UP/PU hybrid network composites
Authors: Singh Richa , Singh B , Tarannum Hina
Published: June 2019

Hybrid networks (unsaturated polyester–polyurethane (UP/PU)) of UP resin and PU prepolymer were synthesized and characterized for their phase miscibility with the help of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and atomic force microscopy. The existence of hydrogen bonded –NH groups, broadened glass transition region, and reduced phase domains evidenced the formation of intermixed phase when compared with the parent UP. The optimum mechanical properties of UP/PU hybrid networks were observed at ∼5 wt% PU content. The composites made from treated jute fibers and UP/PU hybrid networks were evaluated for their physico-mechanical properties. DMA curves showed that UP/PU matrix composites had ∼20% higher storage modulus and ∼17% lower tan δ than the polyester matrix composites. The tensile and flexural strengths of these composites were increased by ∼13% and ∼40%, respectively. During accelerated aging, the UP/PU matrix composites retained ∼15% more tensile strength than the polyester matrix composites. Fractographic evidence, such as resin adherence onto the pullout fiber surface, fiber breakage, and adequate adhesion between the jute fibers and the resin, supported the superior properties of UP/PU matrix composites to polyester matrix composites.
A Family Belief Systems Theory for Transcultural Family Health Care Nursing
Authors: Hohashi Naohiro
Published: June 2019

To enable culturally congruent family health care nursing, the family belief systems theory proposed by Hohashi can be utilized. The family belief systems theory, developed through family ethnographic studies and questionnaire surveys conducted in the United States, Japan, China, Indonesia, and the Philippines, explains (a) structurization of a system, based on the family member’s beliefs as cognition criteria, in which family member’s emotions, decisions/acts, and physical responses (including health problems) occur; and (b) the process in which family beliefs are formed from family members’ beliefs, by which intentional decisions/acts by the family (family decision making, family self-management, etc.) are performed. By identifying the mechanism of family belief systems, the nursing professional, through support for family/family members’ beliefs, can completely change the intentional decisions/acts by the family.
Platelet Apoptosis Can Be Triggered Bypassing the Death Receptors
Authors: Leytin Valery , Gyulkhandanyan Armen V. , Freedman John
Published: June 2019

In nucleated cells, the extrinsic pathway of the programmed cell death (apoptosis) is triggered by interaction of death ligands of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily with the death receptors on external cell surface membrane. In this review, we present evidence that, in contrast to nucleated cells, apoptosis in anucleate platelets can be induced through bypassing the death receptors, using instead specific receptors on the platelet surface mediating platelet activation, aggregation, and blood coagulation. These platelet surface receptors include the protease-activated receptor 1 of thrombin and glycoproteins IIbIIIa and Ibα, receptors of fibrinogen, and von Willebrand factor. The pro-apoptotic BH3 mimetic ABT-737 and calcium ionophore A23187 also trigger platelet apoptosis without using death receptors. These agents induce the intrinsic pathway of platelet apoptosis by direct targeting mitochondrial and extra-mitochondrial apoptotic responses.
Emerging Treatments and Novel Pathways in Pruritus
Authors: Besner Morin Catherine , Misery Laurent
Published: June 2019

Itch treatment is a major challenge in the dermatologist’s practice. We encounter patients suffering from pruritus on a regular basis, and often lack diverse treatment options to adequately respond to the patients’ needs. In the last 20 years, novel pathways have been investigated that were beyond the scope of histamine. Although most did not result in a molecule available on the Canadian market, it is interesting and important as health care providers to stay up to date with new neuronal pathways involved in itch transmission and potential new therapeutic options. In this review, we will discuss pathways targeted in new topical treatments such as antagonist of proteinase-activated receptor-2, the endocannabinoid system, neurotrophins and tropomyosin-related kinase A receptor, the transient receptor potential-vanilloid or transient receptor potential-melastatine ion channels. New systemic therapies are now focusing on antagonizing the neurokinin receptor, modulating the opioidergic system, or targeting itch cytokines such as interleukin-31.
Periventricular magnetisation transfer ratio abnormalities in multiple sclerosis improve after alemtuzumab
Authors: Brown J William L , Prados Carrasco Ferran , Eshaghi Arman , Sudre Carole H , Button Tom , Pardini Matteo , Samson Rebecca S , Ourselin Sebastien , Wheeler-Kingshott Claudia AM Gandini , Jones Joanne L , Coles Alasdair J , Chard Declan T
Published: June 2019

Background:

In multiple sclerosis (MS), disease effects on magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR) increase towards the ventricles. This periventricular gradient is evident shortly after first symptoms and is independent of white matter lesions.

Objective:

To explore if alemtuzumab, a peripherally acting disease-modifying treatment, modifies the gradient’s evolution, and whether baseline gradients predict on-treatment relapses.

Methods:

Thirty-four people with relapsing-remitting MS underwent annual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning (19 receiving alemtuzumab (four scans each), 15 untreated (three scans each)). The normal-appearing white matter was segmented into concentric bands. Gradients were measured over the three bands nearest the ventricles. Mixed-effects models adjusted for age, gender, relapse rate, lesion number and brain parenchymal fraction compared the groups’ baseline gradients and evolution.

Results:

Untreated, the mean MTR gradient increased (+0.030 pu/band/year) but decreased following alemtuzumab (−0.045 pu/band/year, p = 0.037). Within the alemtuzumab group, there were no significant differences in baseline lesion number ( p = 0.568) nor brain parenchymal fraction ( p = 0.187) between those who relapsed within 4 years ( n = 4) and those who did not ( n = 15). However, the baseline gradient was significantly different ( p = 0.020).

Conclusion:

Untreated, abnormal periventricular gradients worsen with time, but appear reversible with peripheral immunotherapy. Baseline gradients – but not lesion loads or brain volumes – may predict on-treatment relapses. Larger confirmatory studies are required.
Alarming attitudinal barriers to help-seeking in drug-related emergency situations: Results from a Swedish online survey
Authors: Soussan Christophe , Kjellgren Anette
Published: June 2019

Background:

New troublesome drug trends constitute a challenge for public health. Sweden has the second highest drug-related mortality rate in Europe. This calls for an investigation into the help-seeking attitudes of young adults to early middle-aged individuals asking how they would act in acute drug-related emergency or overdose situations.

Methods:

In total, 1232 individuals completed an online survey promoted on Sweden’s largest discussion forum Flashback.org . Their free-text responses were analysed according to inductively generated categories.

Results:

Around 60% of the sample would act as expected and contact emergency care without hesitation. However, approximately 32% of the sample showed palpable resistance and would put off seeking help and use emergency care only as a last resort due to, for example, fear of legal repercussions and stigma. Moreover, 8% displayed a total lack of confidence in public healthcare and would avoid it at all costs or entirely disregard it as an option due to the alleged risk of negative consequences and experienced restrictions on their personal freedom.

Conclusions:

While the inevitable criminalisation and stigmatisation associated with Sweden’s “zero tolerance” drug policy putatively serve as deterrents to drug use, our results demonstrate that these measures may also contribute to attitudes which discourage help-seeking. Such attitudes may at least partly explain the growing and comparatively high number of drug-induced deaths. Therefore, attitudinal and structural barriers to acute help-seeking in drug-related emergency situations should be acknowledged and investigated further in order to minimise harm.
Reducing burnout, vicarious trauma, and secondary traumatic stress through investigating purpose in life in social workers
Authors: Singer Jonathan , Cummings Caroline , Moody Sarah A , Benuto Lorraine T
Published: June 2019

Social workers fulfill vital roles, servicing clients from vulnerable populations and maintaining their welfare. As a result of frequent interaction with clients who have often experienced trauma, these workers are susceptible to experiencing burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and vicarious trauma. This study aimed to identify if purpose in life is a protective factor for adult/elder protective services (AEPS) and child protective services (CPS) workers. A comprehensive search of AEPS and CPS agencies resulted in more than 500 agencies throughout the United States. Three multiple regressions were run, with purpose in life as the independent variable, controlling for social workers’ years of experience, ethnicity, average of number of hours worked per week.

Findings

A sample of 292 participants ranging in age from 18 to 58 years of age, with a mean age of 42.03(12.34), participated in this study. Of the 292 social workers, 126 reported being CPS workers and 166 reported being AEPS workers. In all three linear regressions, higher purpose in life resulted in lower rates of vicarious trauma ( F(3, 263)=10.364, p<.001), secondary traumatic stress ( F(3, 263)=16.548, p<.001), and burnout ( F(3, 263)= 23.912, p<.001) when controlling for number of hours worked per week and years of experience. The amount of variance explained by these models ranged from 11 to 21%. Post hoc correlations between study variables were conducted, including the association between purpose in life and CS.

Applications

This study provides evidence necessary to warrant an intervention for protective services workers, specifically targeted toward increasing purpose in life.
Preschool teachers' perceptions about read-alouds as a means to support children's early literacy and language development
Authors: Alatalo Tarja , Westlund Barbro
Published: June 2019

This study examined active Swedish preschool teachers’ thoughts and perceptions in terms of read-alouds as a tool to support children's language and literacy development. The research question was ‘How and for what purpose do preschool teachers say that they organize read-alouds in preschool?’ Three focus group interviews were conducted with five preschool teachers from different preschools in each group. The findings reflect traditions that influence preschool education, and the general picture is that teachers’ personal and practical knowledge informs their daily teaching. The informants try to organize read-alouds but do not always succeed as a result of logistical and practical challenges. Teachers describe external factors, such as large groups and the requirement to teach maths and science, as obstacles in the planning and implementing of read-alouds. Teachers that have received in-service training and professional development say that they have daily read-alouds followed by text talk. The need for professional development is discussed.
An adaptive particle swarm optimization method for multi-objective system reliability optimization
Authors: Mellal Mohamed Arezki , Zio Enrico
Published: June 2019

Multi-objective system reliability optimization has attracted the attention of several researchers, due to its importance in industry. In practice, the optimization regards multiple objectives, for example, maximize the reliability, minimize the cost, weight, and volume. In this article, an adaptive particle swarm optimization is presented for multi-objective system reliability optimization. The approach uses a Lévy flight for some particles of the swarm, for avoiding local optima and insuring diversity in the exploration of the search space. The multi-objective problem is converted to a single-objective problem by resorting to the weighted-sum method and a penalty function is implemented to handle the constraints. Nine numerical case studies are presented as benchmark problems for comparison; the results show that the proposed approach has superior performance than a standard particle swarm optimization.
Negotiating the Great Recession: How Teacher Collective Bargaining Outcomes Change in Times of Financial Duress
Authors: Strunk Katharine O. , Marianno Bradley D.
Published: June 2019

This article examines how teacher collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), teacher salaries, and class sizes changed during the Great Recession. Using a district-level data set of California teacher CBAs that includes measures of subarea contract strength and salaries from 2005–2006 and 2011–2012 tied to district-level longitudinal data, we estimate difference-in-difference models to examine bargaining outcomes for districts that should have been more or less fiscally constrained. We find that unions and administrators change critical elements of CBAs and district policy during times of fiscal duress. This includes increasing class sizes, reducing instructional time, and lowering base salaries to relieve financial pressures and negotiating increased protections for teachers in areas with less direct financial implications, including grievance procedures and nonteaching duties.
Influence of Radiographic Viewing Perspective on Glenoid Inclination Measurement
Authors: Chalmers Peter N , Suter Thomas , Jacxsens Matthijs , Zhang Yue , Zhang Chong , Tashjian Robert Z , Henninger Heath B
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The purposes of this study were to determine (1) whether glenoid inclination (GI) could be accurately measured on plain radiographs as compared to a gold-standard 3-dimensional (3D) measure and (2) whether GI could be reliably measured on plain radiographs.

Materials and Methods

Digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) were made from 3D computed tomography reconstructions of 68 normal cadaver scapulae. DRRs were made in a variety of viewing angles. Inclination was measured on these DRRs. These measurements were also made using a gold-standard 3D method. Measurements were made by 2 orthopedic surgeons and 1 surgeon twice, to calculate interrater and intrarater intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

The gold-standard 3D β was 83 ± 5° (72°–98°). On neutral plain radiographs, the mean ± standard deviation 2D β angle was 80 ± 6° (range, 66°–99°). With regard to accuracy, the 2D β angle was significantly different from the 3D β angle, with the 2D β underestimating the 3D β by 5° (95% confidence intervals −1 to 12). With regard to reliability, interrater ICCs for 2D β with a neutral viewing angle was 0.79. Two-dimensional β varied widely with viewing angle from 0.24 to 0.88. Interrater ICCs for the 3D method was 0.83 (0.60–0.92). Intrarater ICCs for all 3 techniques were high (>0.91).

Conclusions

Two-dimensional radiographic GI measurement is not accurate, as it underestimates the 3D value by an average of 5° when compared to the gold-standard 3D measurement. GI 2D measurement reliability varies with viewing angle on plain radiographs and thus to accurately and reliably measure inclination 3D imaging is necessary.
Modelling the probability of erroneous negative lymph node staging in patients with colon cancer
Authors: Fortea‐Sanchis Carlos , Forcadell‐Comes Erica , Martínez‐Ramos David , Escrig‐Sos Javier
Published: June 2019

Background

Patients in who with insufficient number of analysed lymph nodes (LNs) are more likely to receive an incorrect LN staging. The ability to calculate the overall probability of undiagnosed LN involvement errors in these patients could be very useful for approximating the real patient prognosis and for giving possible indications for adjuvant treatments. The objective of this work was to establish the predictive capacity and prognostic discriminative ability of the final error probability (FEP) among patients with colon cancer and with a potentially incorrectly‐staged LN‐negative disease.

Methods

This was a retrospective multicentric population study carried out between January 2004 and December 2007. We used a mathematical model based on Bayes’ theorem to calculate the probability of LN involvement given a FEP test result. Cumulative sum graphs were used to calculate risk groups and the survival rates were calculated, by month, using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 548 patients were analysed and classified into three risk groups according to their FEP score: low‐risk (FEP < 2%), intermediate‐risk (FEP 2%–15%), and high‐risk (FEP > 15%). Patients with LN involvement had the lowest overall survival rate when compared to the three risk groups. This difference was statistically significant for the low‐ and intermediate‐risk groups (P = 0.002 and P = 0.004, respectively), but high‐risk group presented similar survival curves to pN+ group (P = 0.505). In terms of disease‐free survival, the high‐risk group presented similar curves to the intermediate‐risk group until approximately 60 months’ follow‐up (P = 0.906). After 80 months’ follow‐up, the curve of high‐risk group coincided with that of the pN+ group (P = 0.172). Finally, we summarized the FEP according to the number of analysed LNs and accompanied by a contour plot which represents its calculation graphically.

Conclusions

The application of Bayes’ theorem in the calculation of FEP is useful to delimit risk subgroups from among patients without LN involvement.
Unique Pattern of N-Glycosylation, Sialylation, and Sulfonation on TSH Molecules in Serum of Children Up to 18 Months
Authors: Wide Leif , Eriksson Karin
Published: June 2019

Context

N-glycosylation and glycan composition of human TSH molecules modulate the biological properties of TSH in different physiological and clinical situations. The degree of sialylation of serum TSH was reported to be very low in normal third-trimester fetuses compared with normal adults. The circulating TSH glycoforms and their glycan compositions in young children have hitherto not been determined.

Objective

To characterize N-glycosylation and glycan composition of circulating TSH molecules in young children.

Design, Participants, Main Outcome Measures

Serum samples were obtained from euthyroid individuals: 33 children, age 2 weeks to 3 years, and 264 adults. The di-glycosylated TSH and tri-glycosylated TSH glycoforms were determined and characterized with respect to sialylation and sulfonation. The TSH N-glycosylation was also examined in pituitary extracts of 75 individuals.

Results

In children up to 18 months of age, most TSH molecules were low-N-glycosylated, high-sulfonated, and low-sialylated compared with older children and adults. The degree of N-glycosylation was similar in serum and pituitary extracts up to 3 months of age and after that was higher in serum than in pituitary extracts.

Conclusions

Children up to age 18 months had low-sialylated TSH molecules, similar to those reported for third-trimester fetuses. Most TSH molecules in young children were of smaller size and less negatively charged, favoring transport into their target tissues. The low sialylation favors a high biopotency at thyroid and extrathyroidal TSH receptors. A delayed development of the liver SO3-N-acetylgalactosamine receptor function after birth is a likely explanation of the highly sulfonated TSH molecules in serum samples of infants.
Genetic Association Study of Eight Steroid Hormones and Implications for Sexual Dimorphism of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Pott Janne , Bae Yoon Ju , Horn Katrin , Teren Andrej , Kühnapfel Andreas , Kirsten Holger , Ceglarek Uta , Loeffler Markus , Thiery Joachim , Kratzsch Jürgen , Scholz Markus
Published: June 2019

Context

Steroid hormones are important regulators of physiological processes in humans and are under genetic control. A link to coronary artery disease (CAD) is supposed.

Objective

Our main objective was to identify genetic loci influencing steroid hormone levels. As a secondary aim, we searched for causal effects of steroid hormones on CAD.

Design

We conducted genome-wide meta-association studies for eight steroid hormones: cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), estradiol, and testosterone in two independent cohorts (LIFE-Adult, LIFE-Heart, maximum n = 7667), and progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and aldosterone in LIFE-Heart only (maximum n = 2070). All genome-wide significant loci were tested for sex interactions. Furthermore, we tested whether previously reported CAD single-nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with our steroid hormone panel and investigated causal links between hormone levels and CAD status using Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches.

Results

We discovered 15 novel associated loci for 17-hydroxyprogesterone, progesterone, DHEAS, cortisol, androstenedione, and estradiol. Five of these loci relate to genes directly involved in steroid metabolism, that is, CYP21A1, CYP11B1, CYP17A1, STS, and HSD17B12, almost completing the set of steroidogenic enzymes with genetic associations. Sexual dimorphisms were found for seven of the novel loci. Other loci correspond, for example, to the WNT4/β-catenin pathway. MR revealed that cortisol, androstenedione, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and DHEA-S had causal effects on CAD. We also observed enrichment of cortisol and testosterone associations among known CAD hits.

Conclusion

Our study greatly improves insight into genetic regulation of steroid hormones and their dependency on sex. These results could serve as a basis for analyzing sexual dimorphism in other complex diseases.
PCSK9 Inhibitors in a Statin-Intolerant Transgender Man With Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Case Report
Authors: Pirazzi Carlo , Tavaglione Federica , Tivesten Åsa , Romeo Stefano
Published: June 2019

In female-to-male transgender individuals, testosterone is used to induce masculinization. Sex steroid therapy may increase circulating triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and may decrease high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, resulting in a more atherogenic lipid profile. These potentially adverse effects of androgen therapy may be exacerbated by the presence of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). We describe the case of a transgender man with genetically diagnosed FH who was intolerant to statins and was started on a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor to control his lipoproteins more effectively.

The 35-year-old female-to-male transgender individual was referred to our center with a history of elevated LDL-C levels. Despite treatment with high doses of high-potency statins and ezetimibe, he had never achieved a sustained reduction in LDL-C; his levels of LDL-C were fluctuating between 170 and 344 mg/dL (4.4 and 8.9 mmol/L). Moreover, he developed side effects to statins in the form of myalgia and discontinued statin treatment. At the Sahlgrenska Lipid Clinic, a genetic diagnosis of heterozygous FH was established, and PCSK9 inhibitor therapy was started. The patient’s LDL-C level has been reduced by approximately 40% for 23 months, and no adverse events have been reported.
Differences in ocular media transmittance among classical frog model species and its impact on visual sensitivity
Authors: Yovanovich Carola A. M. , Grant Taran , Kelber Almut
Published: June 2019

The transmittance properties of the cornea, lens and humours of vertebrates determine how much light across the visible spectrum reaches the retina, influencing sensitivity to visual stimuli. Amphibians are the only vertebrate class in which the light transmittance of these ocular media have not been thoroughly characterised, preventing large-scale comparative studies and precise quantification of visual stimuli in physiological and behavioural experiments. We measured the ocular media transmittance in some commonly used species of amphibians (the bufonids Bufo bufo and Rhinella ornata and the ranids Lithobates catesbeianus and Rana temporaria) and found low transmittance of short wavelength light, with ranids having less transmissive ocular media than bufonids. Our analyses also show that these transmittance properties have a considerable impact on photoreceptor spectral sensitivity, highlighting the need to incorporate this type of measurements into the design of stimuli for experiments on visual function.
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness and Topical Analgesic Alter Corticospinal Excitability of the Biceps Brachii
Authors: STEFANELLI LUCAS , LOCKYER EVAN J. , COLLINS BRANDON W. , SNOW NICHOLAS J. , CROCKER JULIE , KENT CHRISTOPHER , POWER KEVIN E. , BUTTON DUANE C.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

The interactive effect of delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and a topical analgesic on corticospinal excitability was investigated.

Methods

Thirty-two participants completed Experiments A (no DOMS) and B (DOMS). For each experiment, participants were randomly assigned to two groups: 1) topical analgesic gel (topical analgesic,n= 8), or 2) placebo gel (placebo,n= 8) group. Before the application of gel (pregel), as well as 5, 15, 30, and 45 min postgel, motor-evoked potential (MEP) area, latency, and silent period, as well as cervicomedullary MEP and maximal compound motor unit action potential areas and latencies were measured. In addition, pressure–pain threshold (PPT) was measured pre-DOMS and at the same timepoints in experiment B.

Results

In experiment A, neither group showed a significant change for any outcome measure. In experiment B, both groups exhibited a significant decrease in PPT from pre-DOMS to pregel. After the application of topical analgesic, but not placebo, there was a significant increase in PPT at 45 min postgel, respectively, compared with pregel and a main effect of time for the silent period to increase compared with pregel. Participants with DOMS had reduced MEP and cervicomedullary MEP areas and increased corticospinal silent periods compared with those who did not have DOMS.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that DOMS reduced corticospinal excitability and after the administration of menthol-based topical analgesic, there was a reduction in pain, which was accompanied by increased corticospinal inhibition.