bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digestive tract adaptation associated with temperature and precipitation in male Bufo andrewsi
Authors: Ma Xiao Hui , Zhong Mao Jun , Jin Long , Mi Zhi Ping , Liao Wen Bo
Published: September 2016

The digestive tract provides a functional relationship between energy intake and allocation. An understanding of effects of environmental factors on the evolution of digestive tract morphology is especially important. To investigate this, we studied the variation in digestive tract length across 10 populations of the Andrew’s toad (Bufo andrewsi) between 2012 and 2015 in Sichuan province, western China. These populations were collected in different habitats varying in temperature and precipitation. The results reveal an increase in the length of the digestive tract and gut with increasing temperature and decreasing precipitation, when controlling for the effect of body size. Our findings suggest that individuals of populations living in high-temperature and low-precipitation environments have longer digestive tracts, possibly because they consume less animal-based foods and more high-fiber foods.
Altitudinal variation in male reproductive investment in a polyandrous frog species (Hyla gongshanensis jingdongensis)
Authors: Jin Long , Mi Zhi Ping , Liao Wen Bo
Published: September 2016

Competition for fertilization in multi-male group spawning can drive variation in male reproductive investment (i.e., testis mass and sperm size). Inter-population comparisons of variation in energetic availability and allocation along geographical gradients allow insights into the mechanisms shaping the reproductive investments of animals. Although inter-population differences in female reproductive investment (i.e., clutch size and egg size) have been studied extensively across a wide range of taxa, little information on variation in reproductive investment in males is available. Here, we studied altitudinal variation in testis mass and sperm length among three populations in the Jingdong tree frog (Hyla gongshanensis jingdongensis), a polyandrous species, in Yunnan Province in China. The results showed that individuals exhibited smaller testes at higher altitudes while testes mass was positively correlated with body size, body condition and age. Longer sperm length was observed in the middle-altitude population. Moreover, we found that sperm number was positively correlated with testes mass and sperm length. Our correlational findings suggest that environmental constraints at high altitude select for less investment in testes and offspring number.
An Improved Spectral Background Subtraction Method Based on Wavelet Energy
Authors: Zhao Fengkui , Wang Jian , Wang Aimin
Published: September 2016

Most spectral background subtraction methods rely on the difference in frequency response of background compared with characteristic peaks. It is difficult to extract accurately the background components from the spectrum when characteristic peaks and background have overlaps in frequency domain. An improved background estimation algorithm based on iterative wavelet transform (IWT) is presented. The wavelet entropy principle is used to select the best wavelet basis. A criterion based on wavelet energy theory to determine the optimal iteration times is proposed. The case of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy is discussed for illustration. A simulated spectrum with a prior known background and an experimental spectrum are tested. The processing results of the simulated spectrum is compared with non-IWT and it demonstrates the superiority of the IWT. It has great significance to improve the accuracy for spectral analysis.
“Boil them Hearts”
Authors: Redden Jason
Published: September 2016

This paper addresses the academic conversation on Protestant missions to the Indigenous peoples of coastal British Columbia during the second half of the nineteenth century through a consideration of the role of revivalist piety in the conversion of some of the better known Indigenous Methodist evangelists identified in the scholarly literature. The paper introduces the work of existing scholars critically illuminating the reasons (religious convergence and/or the want of symbolic and material resources) typically given for Indigenous, namely, Ts’msyen, conversion. It also introduces Methodist revivalist piety and its instantiation in British Columbia. And, finally, it offers a critical exploration of revivalist piety and its role in conversion as set within a broader theoretical inquiry into the academic study of ritual and religion.
Hysteresis in Mental Workload and Task Performance
Authors: Jansen Reinier J. , Sawyer Ben D. , van Egmond René , de Ridder Huib , Hancock Peter A.
Published: September 2016

Objective:

We examine how transitions in task demand are manifested in mental workload and performance in a dual-task setting.

Background:

Hysteresis has been defined as the ongoing influence of demand levels prior to a demand transition. Authors of previous studies predominantly examined hysteretic effects in terms of performance. However, little is known about the temporal development of hysteresis in mental workload.

Method:

A simulated driving task was combined with an auditory memory task. Participants were instructed to prioritize driving or to prioritize both tasks equally. Three experimental conditions with low, high, and low task demands were constructed by manipulating the frequency of lane changing. Multiple measures of subjective mental workload were taken during experimental conditions.

Results:

Contrary to our prediction, no hysteretic effects were found after the high- to low-demand transition. However, a hysteretic effect in mental workload was found within the high-demand condition, which degraded toward the end of the high condition. Priority instructions were not reflected in performance.

Conclusion:

Online assessment of both performance and mental workload demonstrates the transient nature of hysteretic effects. An explanation for the observed hysteretic effect in mental workload is offered in terms of effort regulation.

Application:

An informed arrival at the scene is important in safety operations, but peaks in mental workload should be avoided to prevent buildup of fatigue. Therefore, communication technologies should incorporate the historical profile of task demand.
Long-Lasting Changes in Muscle Twitch Force During Simulated Work While Standing or Walking
Authors: Garcia Maria-Gabriela , Wall Rudolf , Steinhilber Benjamin , Läubli Thomas , Martin Bernard J.
Published: September 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-lasting effects of prolonged standing work on a hard floor or floor mat and slow-pace walking on muscle twitch force (MTF) elicited by electrical stimulation.

Background:

Prolonged standing work may alter lower-leg muscle function, which can be quantified by changes in the MTF amplitude and duration related to muscle fatigue. Ergonomic interventions have been proposed to mitigate fatigue and discomfort; however, their influences remain controversial.

Method:

Ten men and eight women simulated standing work in 320-min experiments with three conditions: standing on a hard floor or an antifatigue mat and walking on a treadmill, each including three seated rest breaks. MTF in the gastrocnemius-soleus muscles was evaluated through changes in signal amplitude and duration.

Results:

The significant decrease of MTF amplitude and an increase of duration after standing work on a hard floor and on a mat persisted beyond 1 hr postwork. During walking, significant MTF metrics changes appeared 30 min postwork. MTF amplitude decrease was not significant after the first 110 min in any of the conditions; however, MTF duration was significantly higher than baseline in the standing conditions.

Conclusion:

Similar long-lasting weakening of MTF was induced by standing on a hard floor and on an antifatigue mat. However, walking partially attenuated this phenomenon.

Application:

Mostly static standing is likely to contribute to alterations of MTF in lower-leg muscles and potentially to musculoskeletal disorders regardless of the flooring characteristics. Occupational activities including slow-pace walking may reduce such deterioration in muscle function.
Long-term effects of parental divorce timing on depression: A population-based longitudinal study
Authors: Chun Sung-Youn , Jang Suk-Yong , Choi Jae-Woo , Shin Jaeyong , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: September 2016

Background:

We examined the long-term effects of parental divorce timing on depression using longitudinal data from the Korean Welfare Panel Study.

Methods:

Depression symptoms were measured using the 11 items of Center for Epidemiologic Scale for Depression (CES-D-11), and we categorized parental divorce timing into ‘early childhood’, ‘adolescent’ and ‘none’.

Results:

Although participants who experienced parental divorce during adolescence exhibited a significantly higher CES-D-11 score ( p = .0468), ‘early childhood’ participants displayed the most increased CES-D-11 score compared to the control group ( p = .0007). Conversely, among participants who were unsatisfied with their marriage, those who experienced parental divorce in early childhood showed lower CES-D-11 scores, while ‘adolescent period’ participants exhibited significantly higher CES-D-11 scores ( p = .0131).

Conclusion:

We concluded that timing of parental divorce exerts substantial yet varied effects on long-term depression symptoms and future marriage satisfaction.
The factor structure of the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II among a South African student sample
Authors: Roomaney Rizwana , van Eeden Sarah , Kagee Ashraf
Published: September 2016

This study aimed to determine the factor structure of the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II scale in a South African sample. The sample consisted of 211 students at a university. Students completed an online survey that included the 52-item Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II. Confirmatory factor analysis, items analysis, and exploratory factor analysis were used to determine the factor structure of the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II and reduce the number of items. Confirmatory factor analysis did not confirm the original six-factor structure for the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II. The measure produced high internal consistency value (Cronbach’s alpha = .92) indicating over-redundancy of items. Item analysis was conducted in order to reduce the number of items. A subsequent exploratory factor analysis yielded a six-factor model for the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II in the current sample. The final 24-item measure demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = .87) and can be used as an alternative to the original measure within the current sample.
Democracy and the Body Politic from Aristotle to Hobbes
Authors: Smith Sophie
Published: September 2016

The conventional view of Hobbes’s commonwealth is that it was inspired by contemporary theories of tyranny. This article explores the idea that a paradigm for Hobbes’s state could in fact be found in early modern readings of Aristotle on democracy, as found in Book Three of the Politics. It argues that by the late sixteenth century, these meditations on the democratic body politic had developed claims about unity, mythology, and personation that would become central to Hobbes’s own theory of the commonwealth. Tracing the history of commentary on the relevant passages in Aristotle reveals new perspectives not only on the political theories of both Aristotle and Hobbes but also introduces modern readers to the richness of early modern commentaries on classical political texts. The article ends with some thoughts on why attention to traditions of commentary might be valuable for political theorists today.
Marijuana Policy Opinions in Washington State Since Legalization
Authors: Subbaraman Meenakshi Sabina , Kerr William C.
Published: September 2016

Background:

In 2012, voters in Washington state approved Initiative 502 (I-502) which legalized recreational marijuana use at the state level. This study examines the relationship between demographics, marijuana and alcohol use, and voting outcomes, as well as how these variables relate to (i) whether voters would still vote the same way (a reflection of satisfaction with the new policy) and (ii) the likelihood of using marijuana purchased from legal retail stores.

Methods:

The sample consists of 2,007 adult Washington state residents recruited through Random Digit Dial between January and October 2014. Bivariate tests and multivariable regressions were used for analyses.

Results:

Less than 5% of those who voted for marijuana legalization would change their votes, whereas 14% of those who voted against legalization would change their votes. In multivariable models controlling for demographics, substance use, and marijuana-related opinions, those who voted for legalization had half the odds of changing their votes than those who voted against it. Among past-year nonmarijuana users, almost 10% were somewhat/very likely to use marijuana if they could buy it from a legal store. Past marijuana use, the belief that adults should be allowed to grow marijuana for personal use, and the belief that marijuana is not very risky for health were all related to increased likelihood of using marijuana purchased from legal stores.

Conclusion:

Since November 2012, support for marijuana legalization in Washington state has increased; accounting for the proportion of voters who would change their votes suggests that I-502 would pass today with even more votes in favor.
Ideological Differences in Anchoring and Adjustment During Social Inferences
Authors: Stern Chadly , West Tessa V.
Published: September 2016

Recent research has demonstrated that conservatives perceive greater similarity to political ingroup members than do liberals. In two studies, we draw from a framework of “anchoring and adjustment” to understand why liberals and conservatives differ in their perceptions of ingroup similarity. Results indicate that when participants made judgments under time pressure, liberals and conservatives did not differ in assuming ingroup similarity. However, when participants were given sufficient time to make judgments, liberals assumed less similarity than conservatives did, suggesting that liberals adjusted their judgments to a greater extent than conservatives did (Studies 1 and 2). In examining an underlying motivational process, we found that when conservatives’ desire to affiliate with others was attenuated, they adjusted their initial judgments of ingroup similarity to a similar extent as liberals did (Study 2). We discuss implications for research on ideology and social judgment.
Differences in the Rate of in Situ Mammary Gland Development and Other Developmental Endpoints in Three Strains of Female Rat Commonly Used in Mammary Carcinogenesis Studies
Authors: Stanko Jason P. , Kissling Grace E. , Chappell Vesna A. , Fenton Suzanne E.
Published: September 2016

The potential of chemicals to alter susceptibility to mammary tumor formation is often assessed using a carcinogen-induced study design in various rat strains. The rate of mammary gland (MG) development must be considered so that the timing of carcinogen administration is impactful. In this study, in situ MG development was assessed in females of the Harlan Sprague-Dawley (Hsd:SD), Charles River Sprague-Dawley (Crl:SD), and Charles River Long-Evans (Crl:LE) rat strains at postnatal days 25, 33, and 45. Development was evaluated by physical assessment of growth parameters, developmental scoring, and quantitative morphometric analysis. Although body weight (BW) was consistently lower and day of vaginal opening (VO) occurred latest in female Hsd:SD rats, they exhibited accelerated pre- and peripubertal MG development compared to other strains. Glands of Crl:SD and Crl:LE rats exhibited significantly more terminal end buds (TEBs) and TEB/mm than Hsd:SD rats around the time of VO. These data suggest a considerable difference in the rate of MG development across commonly used strains, which is independent of BW and timing of VO. In mammary tumor induction studies employing these strains, administration of the carcinogen should be timed appropriately, based on strain, to specifically target the peak of TEB occurrence.
Mammary Gland Evaluation in Juvenile Toxicity Studies
Authors: Filgo Adam J. , Foley Julie F. , Puvanesarajah Samantha , Borde Aditi R. , Midkiff Bentley R. , Reed Casey E. , Chappell Vesna A. , Alexander Lydia B. , Borde Pretish R. , Troester Melissa A. , Bouknight Schantel A. Hayes , Fenton Suzanne E.
Published: September 2016

There are currently no reports describing mammary gland development in the Harlan Sprague-Dawley (HSD) rat, the current strain of choice for National Toxicology Program (NTP) testing. Our goals were to empower the NTP, contract labs, and other researchers in understanding and interpreting chemical effects in this rat strain. To delineate similarities/differences between the female and male mammary gland, data were compiled starting on embryonic day 15.5 through postnatal day 70. Mammary gland whole mounts, histology sections, and immunohistochemically stained tissues for estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors were evaluated in both sexes; qualitative and quantitative differences are highlighted using a comprehensive visual timeline. Research on endocrine disrupting chemicals in animal models has highlighted chemically induced mammary gland anomalies that may potentially impact human health. In order to investigate these effects within the HSD strain, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo -p-dioxin, diethylstilbestrol, or vehicle control was gavage dosed on gestation day 15 and 18 to demonstrate delayed, accelerated, and control mammary gland growth in offspring, respectively. We provide illustrations of normal and chemically altered mammary gland development in HSD male and female rats to help inform researchers unfamiliar with the tissue and may facilitate enhanced evaluation of both male and female mammary glands in juvenile toxicity studies.
Romantic relationships in Mexico
Authors: Espinosa-Hernández Graciela , Bissell-Havran Joanna , Van Duzor Alison , Halgunseth Linda C.
Published: September 2016

This study examined whether adolescents’ perceptions of maternal warmth and monitoring were associated with dating experience (experience vs. no experience) and romantic relationship duration in Mexico. We also explored whether respeto, age, and gender moderated these associations. Mexican adolescents (54% girls), aged 12–19, self-reported on their perceptions of maternal warmth and monitoring and romantic relationships. Findings suggest that more perceived maternal warmth was associated with longer relationships. The association between monitoring and relationship length was moderated by age and respeto. Specifically, more monitoring was associated with shorter relationships among older adolescents and those who reported lower levels of respeto. Adolescents who endorse respeto and those who are younger may not perceive maternal monitoring as an attempt to hinder their romantic relationships. Findings highlight the importance of cultural context and parental relationships in Mexican adolescents’ romantic experiences.
Whole body perfusion in patients undergoing frozen elephant trunk for type A acute aortic dissections
Authors: Cappabianca Giangiuseppe , Roscitano Claudio , Bichi Samuele , Cricco Antonio , Parrinello Matteo , Beghi Cesare , Albano Giovanni , Esposito Giampiero
Published: September 2016

The Frozen Elephant Trunk (FET) can be adopted in selected type A acute aortic dissections (TAAAD). During FET, a prolonged distal circulatory arrest exposes the spine and visceral organs to potential ischemic injuries. Antegrade distal aortic perfusion (ADAP) could minimize this risk: we describe the technical aspects of the simultaneous use of antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) and ADAP achieving a “Whole Body Perfusion” (WBP) during FET.
Pleasure, arousal, dominance, and judgments about music in everyday life
Authors: Krause Amanda E. , North Adrian C.
Published: September 2016

The aim of the present research was to consider what particular features are significant predictors of whether music is present in a given situation, as well as what factors influence a person’s judgments about the music. Applying Mehrabian and Russell’s (1974) Pleasure-Arousal-Dominance model to everyday experiences of music, 569 people reported on their activity for the previous day via the Day Reconstruction Method (Kahneman, Krueger, Schkade, Schwarz, & Stone, 2004). Data concerning each event included the activity and location, and characterization of the experience using the Pleasure–Arousal–Dominance measure. Moreover, for those events where music was present, participants also indicated how they heard the music and made four judgments about the music. Results indicated that the location, activity, and the person’s perception of dominance were significant predictors of the presence of music during everyday activities and that person’s judgments about the music. Contrary to prior research that has considered predominantly situational pleasure and arousal variables, the present results demonstrate that dominance is arguably the important variable in contextualized music listening.
Cell Viability in Arthroscopic Versus Open Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Biant Leela C. , Simons Michiel , Gillespie Trudi , McNicholas Michael J.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is an effective method of repair of articular cartilage defects. It is a 2-stage operation, with the second stage most commonly performed via mini-arthrotomy. Arthroscopic ACI is gaining popularity, as it is less invasive and may accelerate early rehabilitation. However, handling and manipulation of the implant have been shown to cause chondrocyte cell death.

Purpose:

To assess the number and viability of cells delivered via an open versus arthroscopic approach in ACI surgery.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Sixteen ACI surgeries were performed on young cadaveric knees by 2 experienced surgeons: 8 via mini-arthrotomy and 8 arthroscopically. Live and dead cells were stained and counted on implants after surgery. The cell number and viability were assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Surgery was timed from knife to skin until the end of cycling the knee 10 times after implantation of the cell-membrane construct.

Results:

On receipt of cell membranes after transportation from the laboratory, ≥92% of the cells were viable. There were significantly more remaining cells (8.47E+07 arthroscopic vs 1.41E+08 open; P < .001) and 16 times more viable cells (3.62% arthroscopic vs 37.34% open; P < .001) on the implants when they were inserted via mini-open surgery compared with the arthroscopic technique. Open surgery was of a significantly shorter duration (6 vs 32 minutes; P < .001).

Conclusion:

In this study, there were significantly more viable cells on the implant when ACI was performed via mini-arthrotomy compared with an arthroscopic technique.

Clinical Relevance:

The viability of cells delivered for ACI via an arthroscopic approach was 16 times less than via an open approach. The mini-arthrotomy approach is recommended until long-term clinical comparative data are available.
Surgical Release of the Pectoralis Minor Tendon for Scapular Dyskinesia and Shoulder Pain
Authors: Provencher Matthew T. , Kirby Hannah , McDonald Lucas S. , Golijanin Petar , Gross Daniel , Campbell Kevin J. , LeClere Lance , Sanchez George , Anthony Shawn , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Pectoralis minor (PM) tightness has been linked to pain and dysfunction of the shoulder joint secondary to anterior tilt and internal rotation of the scapula, thus causing secondary impingement of the subacromial space.

Purpose:

To describe outcomes pertaining to nonoperative and operative treatment via surgical release of the PM tendon for pathologic PM tightness in an active population.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Over a 3-year period, a total of 46 patients were enrolled (mean age, 25.5 years; range, 18-33 years). Inclusion criteria consisted of symptomatic shoulder pain, limited range of overhead motion, inability to participate in overhead lifting activities, and examination findings consistent with scapular dysfunction secondary to a tight PM with tenderness to palpation of the PM tendon. All patients underwent a lengthy physical therapy and stretching program (mean, 11.4 months; range, 3-23 months), which was followed by serial examinations for resolution of symptoms and scapular tilt. Of the 46 patients, 6 (13%) were unable to adequately stretch the PM and underwent isolated mini-open PM release. Outcomes were assessed with scapula protraction measurements and pain scales as well as American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores.

Results:

Forty of the 46 patients (87%) resolved the tight PM and scapular-mediated symptoms with a dedicated therapy program (pre- and posttreatment mean outcome scores: 58 and 91 [ASES], 50 and 90 [SANE], 4.9 and 0.8 [VAS]; P < .01 for all), but 6 patients were considered nonresponders (mean score, 48 [ASES], 40 [SANE], 5.9 [VAS]) and elected to have surgical PM release, with improved scores in all domains (mean score, 89 [ASES], 90.4 [SANE], 0.9 [VAS]; P < .01) at final follow-up of 26 months (range, 25-30 months). Additionally, protraction of the scapula improved from 1.2 to 0.3 cm in a mean midline measurement from the chest wall preoperatively to postoperatively ( P < .01), similar to results in nonoperative responders. No surgical complications were reported, and all patients returned to full activities.

Conclusion:

In most patients, PM tightness can be successfully treated with a nonoperative focused PM stretching program. However, in refractory and pathologically tight PM cases, this series demonstrates predictable return to function with notable improvement in shoulder symptoms after surgical release of the PM. Additional research is necessary to evaluate the long-term efficacy of isolated PM treatment.
Analysis of void formation in thermoplastic composites during resistance welding
Authors: Shi Huajie , Villegas Irene Fernandez , Bersee Harald EN
Published: September 2016

The process-induced voids during resistance welding of glass fabric-reinforced polyetherimide was investigated. The mechanisms of void formation in adherends, in particular, the residual volatile-induced voids and the fibre de-compaction-induced voids, were analysed. Due to the non-uniform temperature and stress distributions in the joints during welding, a non-uniform void distribution was observed in the joints with more voids generated in the middle of the joints than at the edges. Welding temperature and pressure were shown to have a large influence on void formation. Increasing of welding pressure was shown to effectively reduce the voids, while the residual moisture-induced voids were found more difficult to be eliminated than the fibre de-compaction-induced voids.
Migrant Sampling Using Facebook Advertisements
Authors: Pötzschke Steffen , Braun Michael
Published: September 2016

Sampling of migrants in cross-national survey research is challenging. Established techniques such as random-route sampling or random-digit-dialing are associated with high monetary costs, in particular when small migrant groups are targeted. The use of onomastic (name based) telephone sampling is a relatively cost-efficient alternative, but it relies on a number of conditions (e.g., existence of telephone directories in the respective countries and inclusion of the target population). As the use of social networking sites (SNSs) has spread around the globe in the last 20 years, the present paper investigates whether a specific SNS, Facebook, can be used to sample migrants, with the ultimate goal to supplement other approaches. This article is based on data collected as part of a survey that used Facebook advertisements to sample Polish migrants in Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The study succeeded in sampling a total of 1,103 individuals who completed the relatively extensive questionnaire within the field period of 8 weeks (1,100 within the 4 weeks the advertisements were placed). In contrast to most of the few other studies that tried to sample respondents with the help of Facebook advertisements, no incentives were used. With nearly all (96%) of the respondents belonging to the target population and a total sampling budget of €500 (US$557), the method can be considered both accurate and cost efficient in recruiting people from the target population. Furthermore, our results suggest that the vast majority of the sample would not have been reached if onomastic sampling had been employed.
Effect of functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with aminated poly(ether sulfone) on thermal and mechanical properties of poly(ether ether ketone) nanocomposites
Authors: Cheng Haizheng , Chen Ming
Published: September 2016

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were functionalized with aminated poly(ether sulfone) (PES) through the amidation reaction. Characterizations by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction corroborated the success of grafting reaction. Raman spectra reveal that no further damage occurred after the anchoring of PES to the carboxylated MWCNTs. Transmission electron microscopy shows that PES functionalization resulted in better dispersion of MWCNTs than acid oxidation. Poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK)/MWCNTs functionalized with PES (PES-MWCNTs) nanocomposites were fabricated by solution-mixing and compression-molding techniques. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates that PES-MWCNTs/PEEK nanocomposites have the highest degradation temperature and thermal stability. Furthermore, noticeable increases in the crystallization and melting temperature as well as in the degree of crystallinity were found from differential scanning calorimetry thermograms, attributed to the strong heterogeneous nucleating role of PES-MWCNTs. Tensile test presents that the attachment of PES to the surface of MWCNTs exceptionally improved the tensile strength and Young’s modulus, and obtained moderate elongation at break. Impact toughness test and dynamic mechanical analysis show that the addition of PES-MWCNTs greatly enhanced the toughness and storage modulus of PEEK, respectively. These results are attributed to improved dispersion of PES-MWCNTs and strong interfacial adhesion to matrix, which is evidenced by scanning electron microscopy.
Visually negotiating hegemonic discourse through Photovoice: Understanding youth representations of safety
Authors: Malherbe Nick , Suffla Shahnaaz , Seedat Mohamed , Bawa Umesh
Published: September 2016

Despite the immense communicative potential of visual methodologies, surprisingly few community-based research studies have meaningfully considered participants’ visual meaning-making processes. When working with youth participants from contexts with which researchers are unfamiliar, the use of visual methodologies and analyses is able to transcend much of the developmental and cultural barriers to communication that are inherent in many linguistically focused research methods. By employing a visual discourse analysis on six photographs captured by Ethiopian youth in a Multi-Country Photovoice Project on youth representations of safety, this study aims to showcase the value of analysing participants’ use of ‘alternative’ visual discourses. It was found that participants drew predominantly on two discourses, Humanising Capital and Unity, both of which resisted a number of Western hegemonic discourses surrounding youth constructions of safety. Participants’ visual constructions served as a meaningful mode of communication, as well as a relevant approach to facilitating youth ownership of meaning-making processes within community-based research.
Analytical modelling of Rolamite mechanism made of shape-memory alloy for constant force actuators
Authors: Spaggiari Andrea , Dragoni Eugenio
Published: September 2016

This article analyses the Rolamite architecture exploiting shape-memory alloys as power element to obtain a solid-state actuator. The Rolamite mechanism was discovered in the late 1960s, initially as precision and low friction linear bearing. The most common Rolamite configuration consists of a flexible thin metal strip and two rollers mounted between two fixed parallel guide surfaces. The system can roll back and forth without slipping guided by the plates along its so-called sensing axis. The system presents another relevant advantage in addition to low friction coefficient, which is the possibility to provide force generation in a quite simple way. In the original literature works, the force was provided, thanks to cut-outs of various shapes in the strip, although this method does not allow the Rolamite to be considered a proper actuator, but only a force generator. In this article, we developed the idea of exploiting the shape-memory alloy as Rolamite power element, and therefore, to use the shape-memory effect to change the elastic properties of the strip and to provide the actuation force. The mechanical analysis, where the martensite–austenite transition is modelled in a simplified way, shows that this application is feasible, mainly thanks to the initial precurvature of the shape-memory alloy strip. The discussion of the results highlights some important merits of this architecture such as long stroke, constant force and compactness.
Pneumatic cylinder with magnetorheological brake using serpentine and helix flux guide as a linear hybrid actuator for haptics
Authors: Cinq-Mars Max , Gurocak Hakan
Published: September 2016

This research explored a new linear hybrid actuator, which consists of a pneumatic cylinder with a magnetorheological brake embedded in its piston. Magnetorheological brakes are promising actuators since they can apply large forces in a small actuator size, but they can only oppose motion, as they are passive actuators. Pneumatic cylinders are desirable actuators due to their high force-to-weight ratio and ability to apply active forces. However, they require expensive servo valves for precise position control. The new hybrid actuator benefits from the advantages of magnetorheological brakes and pneumatic cylinders. It can apply forces using compressed air and can resist external forces using the magnetorheological brake. The embedded brake also eliminates the undesirable side effects of using compressed air and allows precise positioning of the piston anywhere in its stroke with simple solenoid valves. Fields such as haptics and robotics might benefit greatly from the use of the hybrid actuator where a high force-to-weight ratio could be employed. The study contributes (1) a triple helix flux guide for the linear magnetorheological brake, (2) serpentine flux path to enable larger braking forces, (3) shear mode activation, and (4) control algorithms that enable use of simple solenoid valves and improved power efficiency. When compared to an existing purely pneumatic control algorithm, the hybrid actuator exceeded the performance in position tracking and force disturbance rejection. A power management algorithm demonstrated that disabling the brake when the piston was in position vastly decreases the power consumption.
Evaluating Child-Custody Recommendations of Israeli Arab Social Workers
Authors: Enosh Guy , Nouman Hani , Anabtawi Rafah
Published: September 2016

Objectives:

To evaluate Israeli Arab social workers’ custody recommendations, given the unique cultural context in which they operate.

Methods:

The current study used an experimental-design embedded within a survey. Data regarding custody recommendations were collected from 137 Israeli Arab social workers.

Results:

Israeli Arab social workers tend to adhere to traditional norms and prefer mother’s custody (odds ratio [ OR] = 3.74; effect size [ES] = 0.73) over father’s ( OR = 0.05; ES = −1.65) and joint custody ( OR = 0.19; ES = −0.91). Contrary to the hypothesis, males were not associated with father’s custody, but female gender increased the chances for mother’s custody ( OR = 1.27; ES = 0.13). Parents’ education level increased the chances for joint-custody recommendation ( OR = 1.69; ES = 0.29).

Conclusion:

Traditional social norms have an impact on the social worker’s decision. The relationships between social workers’ decision-making processes and their perception societal expectations and norms can be viewed from the perspectives of tacit knowledge, worker’s reflexivity, and evidence-based practice. We emphasize the importance of developing and assimilating relevant organizational mechanisms, supervision, and teaching curricula.
Assessing Attitudes Toward Content and Design in Alibaba’s Dry Goods Business Infographics
Authors: Zhang Yuejiao
Published: September 2016

Alibaba’s Graphic Media (GM) is the first and only Internet content source that uses infographics to educate Chinese e-commerce merchants. This study investigates target audiences’ attitudes toward GM infographics. Two focus groups perceived GM as a practical information source that aided them in decision making and daily business operations. They preferred viewing graphics to texts and particularly favored statistical graphics. They also identified issues with viewing GM infographics on mobile devices. Based on the study’s findings, the author proposes three areas that communicators can address when designing infographics in similar contexts: content, usability, and overall visual appeal.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Study of Clinical, Histomorphological, and Immunohistochemical Features in Indian Patients
Authors: Sable Mukund , Pai Trupti D. , Shet Tanuja , Patil Asawari , Dhanavade Sandeep , Desai Sangeeta B.
Published: September 2016

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are characterized by negative expression for estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR), and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) receptors. Although the majority of basal-like breast cancers (BLBCs) diagnosed based on gene expression profiling belong to the TNBC group, both entities are not synonymous. Core BLBCs are TNBCs, which are positive for basal cytokeratin (CK) and/or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We aimed to study and correlate a TNBC cohort for various histomorphological features and immunohistochemical (IHC) profile in Indian patients. We studied 205 naïve TNBCs for histopathological features, which were further evaluated for basal CKs—namely, CK5/6, CK14, CK17—and EGFR expression to classify them as core BLBCs, using criteria of any basal CK and/or EGFR positivity and 7-negative phenotype (7NP). Among 205 TNBCs, 91% of cases were core BLBCs, and absence of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) was significantly associated ( P = .014) with core BLBC. Geographic necrosis was correlated with expression of CK17 ( P = .002) and EGFR ( P = .038). A ribbon-like trabecular pattern and absence of DCIS were associated with CK17 ( P = .0002 and P = .043, respectively) and CK14 ( P = .04 and P = .0008, respectively). TNBC is a heterogeneous subgroup with adverse clinicopathological features, and many of them show significant correlation with basal CKs. TNBCs cannot be classified as core BLBC or 7NP based on morphological features, except absence of DCIS. However, this study illustrates the heterogeneity in TNBCs on the basis of IHC markers.
Does Lipid Profile Affect Thrombin Generation During Ramadan Fasting in Patients With Cardiovascular Risks?
Authors: Sassi Mouna , Chakroun Taher , Chouchène Saoussen , Hellara Ilhem , Boubaker Hamdi , Grissa Mohamed Habib , Khochtali Ines , Hassine Mohsen , Addad Faouzi , Elalamy Ismail , Nouira Semir
Published: September 2016

There is evidence that diet and variation in lipid metabolism can influence blood coagulation, but little is known about the effect of Ramadan fasting on plasmatic coagulation pattern. We investigated the effect of Ramadan fasting on thrombin generation (TG) in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks, and we aimed to assess the effect of lipid profile on TG parameters. The study was conducted in 36 adults having at least 2 CVD risks and in 30 healthy controls. Coagulation pattern was assessed by both classical clotting times and TG test. A complete lipid profile was performed simultaneously. Patients were invited 2 times: 1 week before Ramadan and during the last week of the Ramadan. The TG parameters were not different in patients with CVD risks compared to healthy controls. Fasting had no effect on plasmatic coagulation parameters and on TG profile. Individual analysis of the mean rate index (MRI) of TG revealed 3 groups: group 1 with no modification of MRI, group 2 with a significant increase in MRI (81.64 nM/min vs 136.07 nM/min; P < .001), and group 3 with a significant decrease in MRI (125.27 nM/min vs 73.18 nM/min; P = .001). Only in group 2, a significant increase was observed in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Changes in lipid profile during Ramadan fasting did not influence the global coagulation pattern in patients with CVD risks. Whereas, a significant increase in the propagation phase of TG was associated with a significant increase in cholesterol levels, which was not found with the other TG parameters.
Protecting the Vulnerable or Ripe for Reform? State Income Tax Breaks for the Elderly—Then and Now
Authors: Brewer Ben , Conway Karen Smith , Rork Jonathan C.
Published: September 2016

State governments have a long history of providing income tax relief to their elderly constituents. Our research investigates the current distributional and revenue effects of these tax breaks, as well as the economic status of the elderly, and explores how these measures have changed since 1990. Using data from the 1990 Integrated Public Use Microdata Series and the 2013 American Community Survey, combined with the TAXSIM calculator, we calculate current state income tax liabilities and revenues and simulate the effects of removing all age-related tax breaks. Our analyses reveal that the economic well-being of the elderly has grown substantially relative to the nonelderly and that state tax breaks primarily benefit the middle- and upper-income elderly. Revenue costs of these tax breaks have also grown substantially, and their modest and mixed effects on income equality, measured by changes in the Gini, cast doubt on equity as a justification.
Reducing Property Taxes on Homeowners
Authors: Feltenstein Andrew , Rider Mark , Sjoquist David L. , Winters John V.
Published: September 2016

We consider a proposal that reduces by half the taxes on homesteaded properties and replaces the lost revenue by increasing the base and rate of the state sales tax. We develop a computable general equilibrium (CGE) model and a microsimulation model (MSM) to analyze the economic and welfare effects of such a proposal if adopted in Georgia. The results from the CGE model suggest that the proposed reforms have a substantial negative effect in percentage terms on Georgia’s economy. The MSM suggests that such a policy has no effect on the distribution of consumption by income class but increases the percentage of owner-occupied housing relative to rental housing by 20 percent in the aggregate.
A survey on software methods to improve the energy efficiency of parallel computing
Authors: Jin Chao , de Supinski Bronis R , Abramson David , Poxon Heidi , DeRose Luiz , Dinh Minh Ngoc , Endrei Mark , Jessup Elizabeth R
Published: September 2016

Energy consumption is one of the top challenges for achieving the next generation of supercomputing. Codesign of hardware and software is critical for improving energy efficiency (EE) for future large-scale systems. Many architectural power-saving techniques have been developed, and most hardware components are approaching physical limits. Accordingly, parallel computing software, including both applications and systems, should exploit power-saving hardware innovations and manage efficient energy use. In addition, new power-aware parallel computing methods are essential to decrease energy usage further. This article surveys software-based methods that aim to improve EE for parallel computing. It reviews the methods that exploit the characteristics of parallel scientific applications, including load imbalance and mixed precision of floating-point (FP) calculations, to improve EE. In addition, this article summarizes widely used methods to improve power usage at different granularities, such as the whole system and per application. In particular, it describes the most important techniques to measure and to achieve energy-efficient usage of various parallel computing facilities, including processors, memories, and networks. Overall, this article reviews the state-of-the-art of energy-efficient methods for parallel computing to motivate researchers to achieve optimal parallel computing under a power budget constraint.
Drug exposure and clinical effect of transdermal mirtazapine in healthy young cats: a pilot study
Authors: Benson Kellyi K , Zajic Lara B , Morgan Paula K , Brown Sarah R , Hansen Ryan J , Lunghofer Paul J , Wittenburg Luke A , Gustafson Daniel L , Quimby Jessica M
Published: September 2016

Objectives

The objective of this study was to measure drug exposure and clinical effects after administration of transdermal mirtazapine (TMZ) in healthy cats.

Methods

Phase I: seven healthy research cats received (1) 3.75 mg and 7.5 mg TMZ once aurally with 48 h serum sampling (serum samples were obtained via the jugular catheter at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 9, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h); (2) 7.5 mg TMZ and placebo daily aurally for 6 days then 48 h serum sampling; (3) 1.88 mg mirtazapine orally once with serum sampling at 1, 4 and 8 h. Phase II: 20 client-owned cats were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-way crossover clinical effect study. Treatments consisted of 6 days of aural 7.5 mg TMZ or placebo gel at home, and 1.88 mg mirtazapine orally once in the clinic. Owners documented appetite, rate of food ingestion, begging activity and vocalization daily at home. On day 6, food consumed, activity and vocalization were documented in hospital, and trough and peak serum mirtazapine levels were obtained. Serum mirtazapine and gel concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Phase I: administration of TMZ achieved measureable serum mirtazapine concentrations. Area under the curve0–48 of multidose 7.5 mg TMZ was significantly higher than single-dose 1.88 mg oral mirtazapine (OMZ) ( P = 0.02). Phase II: client-owned cats administered TMZ had a significant increase in appetite ( P = 0.003), rate of food ingestion ( P = 0.002), activity ( P = 0.002), begging ( P = 0.002) and vocalization ( P = 0.002) at home. In hospital there was a significant increase in food ingested with both TMZ and OMZ compared with placebo ( P <0.05). Gel concentrations ranged from 87%–119% of target dose.

Conclusions and relevance

TMZ 7.5 mg daily achieves measureable serum concentrations and produces significant appetite stimulation despite variance in compounded gel concentrations, but side effects denote a lower dose is indicated.