bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic heart failure management and remote haemodynamic monitoring
Authors: Wolfson Aaron M , Fong Michael , Grazette Luanda , Rahman Joseph E , Shavelle David M
Published: August 2018

Heart failure (HF) has a large societal and economic burden and is expected to increase in magnitude and complexity over the ensuing years. A number of telemonitoring strategies exploring remote monitoring and management of clinical signs and symptoms of congestion in HF have had equivocal results. Early studies of remote haemodynamic monitoring showed promise, but issues with device integrity and implantation-associated adverse events hindered progress. Nonetheless, these early studies established that haemodynamic congestion precedes clinical congestion by several weeks and that remote monitoring of intracardiac pressures may be a viable and practical management strategy. Recently, the safety and efficacy of remote pulmonary artery pressure-guided HF management was established in a prospective, single-blind trial where randomisation to active pressure-guided HF management reduced future HF hospitalisations. Subsequent commercial use studies reinforced the utility of this technology and post hoc analyses suggest that tight haemodynamic management of patients with HF may be an additional pillar of therapy alongside established guideline-directed medical and device therapy. Currently, there is active exploration into utilisation of this technology and management paradigm for the timing of implantation of durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) and even optimisation of LVAD therapy. Several ongoing clinical trials will help clarify the extent and utility of this strategy along the spectrum of patient with HF from individuals with chronic, stable HF to those with more advanced disease requiring heart replacement therapy.
Pooled study of occupational exposure to aromatic hydrocarbon solvents and risk of multiple myeloma
Authors: De Roos Anneclaire J , Spinelli John , Brown Elizabeth B , Atanackovic Djordje , Baris Dalsu , Bernstein Leslie , Bhatti Parveen , Camp Nicola J , Chiu Brian C , Clavel Jacqueline , Cozen Wendy , De Sanjosé Silvia , Dosman James A , Hofmann Jonathan N , McLaughlin John R , Miligi Lucia , Monnereau Alain , Orsi Laurent , Purdue Mark P , Schinasi Leah H , Tricot Guido J , Wang Sophia S , Zhang Yawei , Birmann Brenda M , Cocco Pierluigi
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To investigate the association between occupational exposure to aromatic hydrocarbon solvents and risk of multiple myeloma (MM) in a large, consortium-based study.

Methods

We pooled data on 2854 cases and 10 743 controls from nine studies participating in the InterLymph consortium. Occupational exposures to benzene, toluene and xylene were assigned by a job–exposure matrix, coupled with ‘correction’ of exposure probability by self-reported or expert-assessed exposure from the individual studies. Cumulative intensity was calculated as the job-specific exposure intensity multiplied by job duration, summed across jobs. Associations were estimated using logistic regression, with inclusion of covariates for study matching factors and other potential confounders. We repeated our main analysis using random-effects meta-analysis to evaluate heterogeneity of effect.

Results

Benzene, toluene and xylene were each associated with MM. For the three solvents, the highest quartile of high-probability cumulative intensity exposure (vs unexposed) was associated with 42% to 63% increased risks of MM. Associations with toluene and xylene exposures were fairly consistent and robust to sensitivity analyses. The estimated effect for benzene was moderately heterogeneous between the studies. Each solvent’s association with MM was stronger for exposure occurring within 20 years of diagnosis than with exposure lagged by more than 20 years.

Conclusions

Our study adds important evidence for a role of aromatic hydrocarbon solvents in causation of MM. The difficulty in disentangling individual compounds in this group and a lack of data on potential carcinogenicity of toluene and xylene, in widespread current use, underscore a need for further epidemiological evaluation.
Characteristics and treatment of new-onset arthritis after checkpoint inhibitor therapy
Authors: Leipe Jan , Christ Lisa A , Arnoldi Andreas P , Mille Erik , Berger Frank , Heppt Markus , Goldscheider Ilana , Kauffmann-Guerrero Diego , Huber Rudolf M , Dechant Claudia , Berking Carola , Schulze-Koops Hendrik , Skapenko Alla
Published: August 2018

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) may cause immune-related adverse events (IRAEs). Characterisation and data on treatment of musculoskeletal IRAEs are scarce. In this cohort study, patients receiving ICI therapy who experienced arthralgia were evaluated for the presence of synovitis. Data on demographics, ICI regime, time of onset, imaging and response to therapy of synovitis were prospectively collected. Arthritis was demonstrated in 14 of 16 patients of whom 7 showed monarthritis, 5 had oligoarthritis and 2 had polyarthritis. Patients with ICI-induced arthritis were predominantly male (57%) and seronegative (69%). Regarding the detection of synovitis in staging imaging, moderate sensitivity for contrast-enhanced CT with PET-CT as reference was observed. Disease burden at baseline was high and was significantly reduced after anti-inflammatory treatment. Nine patients were treated with systemic and eight patients with intra-articular glucocorticoids. Six patients who flared on glucocorticoid treatment on tapering were given methotrexate resulting in long-term remission. Patients with synovitis were more likely to have good tumour response. Patients with ICI-induced arthritis were predominantly male and seronegative showing different patterns of arthritis with high disease burden. Good efficacy and safety was observed for methotrexate, particularly for ICI-induced polyarthritis.
Salicylic acid mitigates hyperhydricity in newly developed potato shoots through reduced oxidation
Authors: Ma Z. , Ji J. , Zhu X. , Yi L. , Li Q. , Wang G. , Jin C. , Guan C.
Published: August 2018

Hyperhydricity is a metabolic disorder of plants raised in tissue culture. In shoot cultures of potato (Solanum tuberosum L. ‘Atlantic’), hyperhydricity is induced by the synthetic cytokinin 6-benzylaminopurine (BA). Withdrawing BA from Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium and replacing it with salicylic acid (SA) restores lateral growth in mildly hyperhydric shoots. To evaluate the role of SA in reducing the extent of hyperhydricity in newly developed potato shoots, the physiological characteristics and enzyme activities of normal, hyperhydric, and SA-treated potato shoots were analyzed and compared. The results showed that the lower dose of SA (1 μmol·L−1) was more effective than the higher dose (100 μmol·L−1) at ameliorating the phenotypic and physiological characteristics of hyperhydric potato shoots. The SA-treated potato shoots did not significantly differ from normal potato shoots in term of phenotype and physiology. Oxidative stress in the hyperhydric potato shoots was alleviated by the SA-induced increases in free putrescine and spermine, glutathione, and increased activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione reductase, all of which were promoted by reactive oxygen species. The results also demonstrated that SA mitigates mild hyperhydricity and could help optimize potato propagation in tissue culture.
Source water variability as a driver of rockfish recruitment in the California Current Ecosystem: implications for climate change and fisheries management
Authors: Schroeder Isaac D. , Santora Jarrod A. , Bograd Steven J. , Hazen Elliott L. , Sakuma Keith M. , Moore Andrew M. , Edwards Christopher A. , Wells Brian K. , Field John C.
Published: August 2018

Elucidating connections between ocean climate variability and change and recruitment of juvenile fishes to adult populations is critical for understanding variability in stock–recruit dynamics. Recruitment to adult rockfish populations in the California Current Ecosystem (CCE) is highly variable, leading to short- and long-term changes in abundance, productivity, forage availability, and potential fisheries yield. We used regional ocean model output, oceanographic data, and a 34-year time series of pelagic juvenile rockfish to investigate the interaction between changes in CCE source waters, as reflected by physical water mass properties, and recruitment variability. Specifically, variability of “spiciness” on upper water isopycnals explains a substantial fraction of the variation in pelagic juvenile rockfish abundance. High rockfish abundances correspond to cooler, fresher waters with higher dissolved oxygen (i.e., “minty”) conditions, indicative of Pacific subarctic water. By contrast, years of low rockfish abundance are associated with warmer, more saline, and more oxygen-deficient (i.e., “spicy”) conditions, reflecting waters of subtropical or equatorial origin. Transport and source waters in the CCE are key factors determining density-independent processes and subsequent recruitment to adult populations.
Addressing healthcare for migrants and ethnic minorities in Europe: A review of training programmes
Authors: Chiarenza Antonio , Horvat Lidia , Lanting Katja , Ciannameo Anna , Suurmond Jeanine
Published: August 2018

Background:

The global phenomenon of migration has dramatically changed the social context in which healthcare professionals operate. European states are facing a growing need to effectively train healthcare professionals to understand and respond appropriately to the diverse needs of migrants and ethnic minorities. While many European Union (EU) countries have adopted specific initiatives, there is considerable variation in these activities and few examples of evaluation of the quality of these training courses.

Aims:

This article describes findings from a review conducted as a part of the ‘Training packages for health professionals to improve access and quality of health services for migrants and ethnic minorities, including the Roma (MEM-TP)’ project, which sought to identify and assess training programmes for health professionals delivered in Europe between 2004 and 2013.

Methods:

The review and analysis of training materials comprised three components: (1) a review of the published and unpublished literature, (2) a survey addressing national contact persons, and representatives of international organisations and non-governmental organisations and (3) an assessment of the quality of the training programmes identified.

Results:

The review showed that training programmes tend to be characterised by low levels of participant involvement in training development, delivery and evaluation. Training programmes often lacked an explicit pedagogical approach, did not systematically focus on outcomes in training design, implementation and evaluation, and were poorly linked to key organisational and policy support. Finally, while cultural competence continues to be the broad conceptual approach used in training programmes, alternate approaches such as intersectionality, equity and person-centred care are emergent.

Conclusion:

Training programmes in Europe can be further improved in order to ensure an effective response to the diverse needs of patients, carers, health professionals and the community.
ISMP Adverse Drug Reactions: Adalimumab-Induced Aseptic Meningitis Pill Desiccant -Induced Acute Hypoxic Respiratory Failure Rivastigmine Patch -Induced Angioedema Acute Liver Failure Due to Etodolac Severe Cognitive Impairment Due to High Free Valproic Acid Levels
Authors: Mancano Michael A. , Milenki Kristen J. , Esordi Morgan V. , Patel Darshil D.
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of revention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch program (800-ßDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MedWatch, please consider sharing the account with ur readers. E-mail Dr.Mancanomichael.mancano@temple.edu ). Your report will be published anonymously unless otherwise requested. This feature is provided by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) in cooperation with the FDA’s MedWatch program and Temple University School of Pharmacy. ISMP is an FDA MedWatch partner.
Individual Cognitive Effort and Cognitive Transition During Organization Development
Authors: Maxton Philip J. , Bushe Gervase R.
Published: August 2018

How do personal mind-sets change during an organization development intervention and how are these transitions associated with the intervention characteristics? In a qualitative theory-driven case study based in South Africa, the transitions of six individuals during an appreciative inquiry were scrutinized longitudinally for first-order and second-order changes. Five individuals showed first-order changes and two showed second-order changes. The engaging and emergent characteristic of the intervention explained the majority of these cognitive transitions. A third type of change in mind-set emerged in four of the cases: the development of an appreciative stance, which we classify as a form of cognitive effort rather than a cognitive transition. We conclude that interventions focusing on positivity may lead to participants developing an appreciative stance, but successful organization development might not occur without sufficient engagement in an emergent process. We provide some guidelines for practitioners for conducting an engaging emergent change process.
Determinants of Public Participation in Kenya County Governments
Authors: Mbithi Antony , Ndambuki Damiana , Juma Fredrick Owino
Published: August 2018

The Constitution of Kenya 2010 introduced a framework for devolving public resources in Kenya’s forty-seven Counties. The Counties were given the responsibilities of maintaining health, roads and agriculture, among others. Using the Afrobarometer (2015) survey, we employ probit regression to examine the determinants of successful public participation in the Counties. We find that approval of the Governor’s performance has a positive and significant influence on public participation. However, difficulty among the citizenry in influencing County decision-making; lack of responsive County Assembly Members; difficulty in accessing information on County budgets, legislation and projects; and corruption in the Governor’s office have a negative significance.
The Relationship Between Individual Characteristics, Quality of Confinement and Recidivism by Offenders Released From Privately and Publicly Managed Residential Community Corrections Facilities
Authors: Alladin Terrence , Hummer Don
Published: August 2018

This study examines Commonwealth of Pennsylvania state prison data on inmates released to a term of residential community corrections in either a publicly or privately managed institution ( n = 7,204). Analyses indicate significant associations of race, facility orderliness, extent of educational/vocational programming, and type of facility management (Commonwealth or a private provider) with an offender’s subsequent reincarceration. Results demonstrate that private entity cost efficiency and effectiveness claims are not supported, and the growth of the private sector in Pennsylvania residential community corrections may even be having a detrimental effect on desistence efforts.
Corporations May Hire More People With Disabilities Through Public Employment Support Services: Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Kim Won Ho , Nam JeeEun Karin
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the effectiveness of employment support services provided to organizations in the context of the quota policies for hiring people with disabilities (PWD). Empirical analyses using the propensity score matching method were conducted on a representative sample of organizations in South Korea that had utilized the PWD employment support services offered by the Korea Employment Agency for the Disabled. In short, the employment support services provided to organizations appeared to be effective in enhancing employment of PWD. Specifically, the organizations that received the PWD employment support services (a) had a higher probability of hiring persons with disabilities, (b) fulfilled the mandated quota for PWD better, and (c) hired more individuals with severe disabilities compared with the organizations that did not receive such services. Implications and limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed.
In, not of: The theological task and the mission of the church
Authors: Tyler Kate
Published: August 2018

This article demonstrates how an interdisciplinary approach to thinking about mission allows for a more dynamic definition of who belongs to the Christian community. It argues that the church ought to understand its relationship to its sociocultural environment not in terms of who is “in” and “out” but in terms of the One toward whom this community is oriented, and the corresponding movement towards or away from this center. This will be done by bringing the exegesis of John 17:14–19 and Romans 12:1–2 into an interdisciplinary dialogue with Paul Hiebert’s “bounded-set” and “centered-set” models in order to show how the centered-set model provides a more theologically nuanced and faithful depiction of the church’s missional identity. Additionally, the trinitarian theologies of Thomas Torrance and Lesslie Newbigin will be added to this conversation to further demonstrate how Hiebert’s centered-set model, in partnership with a trinitarian ecclesiology which focuses upon participation, fellowship, and communion, reduces the stark divide of “in” and “out,” instead defining belonging to the Christian community with reference to the God who gathers and calls the church together.
Jesus’ Encounter with a Woman at the Well: A South Asian Perspective
Authors: Sadiq Yousaf
Published: August 2018

The water of life discourse in the Gospel of John 4 has been of great interest and theological importance to readers of the Bible. This, one of the best-known Bible passages, highlights profound and significant teaching for Christians, which includes but is not limited to: the promised Messiah; God’s saving plan for the world; sovereign grace; living water; eternal life; witnessing for Christ and worshipping God in Spirit and truth. In this article, an attempt has been made to read the encounter through South Asian eyes by placing the sociocultural aspects of the narrative into a present-day South Asian context. Moreover, some applications for Jesus’ counter-cultural behavior are discussed. The article particularly focuses on caste and gender complexities in order to bring out the value of the passage from a South Asian perspective in the twenty-first century.1
What Fantasies Can Do to Your Relationship: The Effects of Sexual Fantasies on Couple Interactions
Authors: Birnbaum Gurit E. , Kanat-Maymon Yaniv , Mizrahi Moran , Recanati May , Orr Romy
Published: August 2018

Research addressing the underlying functions of sexual fantasies has mainly focused on variables associated with frequency and content of fantasies. Relatively less is known about how sexual fantasizing affects the relationship. Four studies examined the contribution of fantasizing about one’s partner (“dyadic fantasies”) to relationship outcomes. In Studies 1 and 2, participants fantasized either about their partner or about someone else and rated their desire to engage in sex and other nonsexual relationship-promoting activities with their partner. In Studies 3 and 4, romantic partners recorded their fantasies and relationship interactions each evening for a period of 21 and 42 days, respectively. In Study 4, partners also provided daily reports on relationship perceptions. Overall, dyadic fantasizing was associated with heightened desire and increased engagement in relationship-promoting behaviors. Relationship perceptions explained the link between dyadic fantasies and relationship-promoting behaviors, suggesting that such fantasies benefit the relationship by enhancing partner and relationship appeal.
Political values and extra-institutional political participation: The impact of economic redistributive and social libertarian preferences on protest behaviour
Authors: Grasso Maria T , Giugni Marco
Published: August 2018

Previous studies have found that left-wing and libertarian individuals are more likely to engage in extra-institutional political activism. However, due to a lack of suitable data, studies to date have not analysed the relative influence of economic redistributive and social libertarian values for the intensity of protest participation. By analysing data from a unique cross-national dataset on participants in mass demonstrations in seven countries, this article addresses this gap in the literature and provides evidence of the relative impact of economic redistributive and social libertarian values in explaining different degrees of protest participation. We show that there are divergent logics underpinning the effect of the two value sets on extra-institutional participation. While both economically redistributive and libertarian social values support extra-institutional participation, economically redistributive protesters are mobilized to political action mainly through organizations, whereas the extra-institutional participation of social libertarian protesters is underpinned by their dissatisfaction with the workings of democracy.
The Language of Romance: An Open Vocabulary Analysis of the Highest Rated Words Used in Romance Novels
Authors: Olivarez Omar , Hardie Ryan , Blackburn Kate G.
Published: August 2018

What are the common linguistic features of top-rated romance novels? The open vocabulary method was performed on 703 romance novels to determine what words were commonly used in the highest rated romance novels. Results revealed that the highest rated novels contained words related to arousal, sexual/primal prowess, and sexual communication. Our research team discusses the ability for words to capture psychological underpinnings related to readers and directions for future research.
Body Dissatisfaction and Depressive Symptoms on the Threshold to Adolescence: Examining Gender Differences in Depressive Symptoms and the Impact of Social Support
Authors: Morken Ida Sund , Røysamb Espen , Nilsen Wendy , Karevold Evalill Bølstad
Published: August 2018

The current study focused on the relationship between body dissatisfaction and depressive symptoms on the threshold of adolescence. We aimed to investigate the role of body dissatisfaction in gender differences in depressive symptoms, as well as the impact of social support from peers and parents. Mediation and moderation analyses were based on self-reports from a Norwegian population-based sample (the Tracking Opportunities and Problems Study) of 12- to 13-year-olds ( N = 547). Body dissatisfaction explained over 20% of the variance in depressive symptoms. The findings indicate that body dissatisfaction mediates gender differences in depressive symptoms, and that peer support moderates the positive association between body dissatisfaction and depressive symptoms. This is in line with Stress Exposure and Stress-Buffering models. The findings indicate that to prevent depressive symptoms in the transition into adolescence, focus should be on promoting body satisfaction, especially in girls, as well as promoting peer support for adolescents already struggling with body dissatisfaction.
Transport Policy Optimization with Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Bösch Patrick M. , Ciari Francesco , Axhausen Kay W.
Published: August 2018

Autonomous vehicles (AVs), here self-driving and driverless vehicles, SAE levels 4 and 5 are becoming more clearly a reality. Potential services based on AVs and their consequences for the transport system are of increasing importance. This paper investigates policy combinations for a world with such services. The policy measures investigated are pricing of public transport (through subsidies), pricing of private motorized transport (through taxation or mobility pricing), and the organization of AV services (monopoly vs. oligopoly, with or without ride-sharing). Further, the perception of travel times for autonomous private cars is considered. All combinations of policies (respectively two to four levels each) were implemented in a simulation to determine their synergies. The applied model was the agent-based transportation simulation MATSim. The scenario employed for the tests was the agglomeration of Zug, Switzerland. The results suggest that, given the current spatial distribution of the demand and the current transport system, AV systems are only able to reduce travel times at the cost of substantial mode shifts and additional vehicle kilometers driven. Of the tested policy measures, although all showed the expected causality, only the organizational form of the AV service had a statistically significant effect. Therefore, this paper suggests that policy makers should be cautious when confronted with the promises of future transport services. To invest the benefits of automation into an improvement of the existing transport system (e.g., automation of public mass transit or complementing public mass transit with ride-sharing AVs in low-demand areas) might be a good alternative.
Impact of Specimen Configuration and Characteristics on Illinois Flexibility Index
Authors: Rivera-Perez Jose , Ozer Hasan , Al-Qadi Imad L.
Published: August 2018

The Illinois Department of Transportation adopted the Illinois Flexibility Index Test (I-FIT) to evaluate the cracking vulnerability of asphalt concrete (AC) mixtures that was often shown to increase with the addition of recycled materials such as reclaimed asphalt pavement and recycled asphalt shingles. The test consists of a semi-circular AC sample that has a notch, loaded along the symmetric axis. Fracture energy (FE), post-peak slope, and the flexibility index (FI) are computed from the load displacement curve. These results can be influenced by specimen geometry and test parameters such as loading rate, AC voids content, and so forth. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of notch length, specimen thickness, loading rate, and AC air void content on the I-FIT results. It was found that an increase in the specimen thickness or loading rate resulted in a steeper post-peak slope without affecting the FE. As a result, the FI decreased. An increase in the notch length or AC air void content resulted in a flatter post-peak slope, thus, increasing the FI. From the results, it was concluded that existing correction factors to address the variations caused by specimen thickness and air void content are appropriate. A correction factor to address notch length variations is proposed. A unique correction factor for loading rate could not be developed because of the varying rate dependency of each AC mixture.
Knowledge-Based System for Estimating Incident Clearance Duration for Maryland I-95
Authors: Won Minsu , Kim Hyeonmi , Chang Gang-Len
Published: August 2018

For incident response operations to be appreciated by the general public, it is essential that responsible highway agencies are capable of providing the estimated clearance duration of a detected incident at a level sufficiently reliable for motorists to make proper decisions such as selecting a detour route. Depending on the estimated clearance duration, the incident response center can then implement proper strategies to interact with motorists, ranging from providing incident information only to executing mandatory detouring operations. This study presents a knowledge-based system, based on detailed incident reports collected by the Maryland-CHART (Coordinated Highway Action Response Team) program between years 2012 and 2016, for such needs. The proposed system features the use of interval-based estimates derived from knowledge of historical data, with different confidence levels for each estimated incident clearance duration, and its rule-based structure for convenient updates with new data and available expertise from field operators. As some key variables associated with incident duration often only become available as the clearance operations progress, the developed system with its sequential nature allows users to dynamically revise the estimated duration when additional data have been reported. The preliminary evaluation results have shown the promise of the developed system which, with its invaluable historical information, can circumvent the many data quality and availability issues which have long plagued the applicability of some state-of-the-art models on this subject.
Large-Scale Transit Signal Priority Implementation: District of Columbia’s Path to Success
Authors: Lozner Bailey , Lee Kevin , Wasim Raja A. , Habib Mohammed G. , Cesme Burak
Published: August 2018

In 2016, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) deployed transit signal priority (TSP) at 195 intersections in highly urbanized areas of Washington, D.C. Years before deployment, DDOT outlined a multi-year process that would aid in the realization of their ambitious objectives. In collaboration with a broader regional implementation and in partnership with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), DDOT set out to apply a systems engineering driven process to identify, design, test, and accept a large-scale TSP system. Application of this systems engineering process led to the successful, widespread deployment of TSP in an urbanized operating environment. Although numerous research efforts to date focus on smaller scale efforts, this paper seeks to close gaps in the literature with a process-focused case study, highlighting intersection selection, system verification testing, and validation for acceptance as applied by DDOT for establishment of an operational, large-scale system. The paper concludes with a discussion of the lessons learned.
Annual Average Nonmotorized Traffic Estimates from Manual Counts: Quantifying Error
Authors: Johnstone Dylan , Nordback Krista , Kothuri Sirisha
Published: August 2018

Across the United States, jurisdictions are investing more in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, which can benefit from nonmotorized traffic volume data. The design of nonmotorized counting programs varies. Whereas some agencies use automated counters to collect continuous and short duration counts, the most common type of bicycle and pedestrian counting is manual counting either in the field or from video. The objective of this research is to identify the optimal times of day to conduct manual counts for the purposes of accurately estimating annual average daily nonmotorized traffic (AADNT). This study used continuous bicycle and pedestrian counts from six U.S. cities to estimate AADNT and analyze estimation errors for multiple short duration count scenarios. Using two permanent counters per factor group reduces error substantially (> 50%); afternoon counts seem to be best for reducing error (2:00 to 6:00 p.m.). Error on Sunday is often as good as, if not better than, Saturday, contrary to what others have found. Arlington has the lowest AADNT estimation error (mean absolute percentage error), probably because of better data quality and higher nonmotorized traffic volumes, and Mount Vernon, Washington has the highest. Average AADNT estimation errors for the studied short duration count scenarios range from 30% to 50%. Error is lower for the commute factor group, bicycle-only counts, scenarios in which more peak hours are counted, and when more than one permanent counter is available to estimate adjustment factors.
Field Study of Driver Exiting Behavior at Complex Interchanges
Authors: Katz Bryan J. , Kuznicki Scott O. , Kehoe Nicholas , Shurbutt Jim
Published: August 2018

A field study explored driver behavior at complex interchanges throughout the United States in order to better understand geometric, signing, and marking characteristics that influence driving behavior and lane selection. Two types of data were collected at 13 interchanges spanning four states: videos from fixed-location cameras, and videos from unmanned aerial vehicles. Findings from the study highlight common behavior as drivers negotiate complex interchanges. For each interchange studied, video was reduced to track vehicle paths throughout the study site. Although data were captured on both through and exiting traffic, the focus of this review was on the exiting vehicles. No major safety issues were observed through the study. One common finding across all sites was that exiting traffic was found to most commonly use the EXIT ONLY lane rather than the option lane. In addition, few common behaviors identified through the video show last-minute lane changes; drivers typically entered their target lane well upstream of the interchange.
Effects of Mineral Additives on Cold Recycled Foamed Asphalt Mixtures Cured in Laboratory and Field Conditions
Authors: Ma Wangyu , West Randy C. , Tran Nam , Diefenderfer Brian K. , Chen Chen
Published: August 2018

Cold recycling with foamed asphalt has been considered a sustainable pavement rehabilitation technology. During the mix design process, the dry and wet indirect tensile strengths (ITS) and tensile strength ratio (TSR) are important parameters for evaluating performance of a cold mix. These performance parameters can be significantly influenced by the type of mineral additive used in the mixture and conditions in which test specimens are cured before testing. In this study, the objective was to determine the effects of mineral additives on the dry and wet ITS and TSR results of the cold recycled foamed asphalt mixtures in laboratory- and field-curing conditions. Mixtures with four different additives (cement, hydrated lime, baghouse fines, and Class C fly ash) at varied contents were compared to a control mixture without a mineral additive. Specimens were cured in the laboratory and in a field-simulated condition. The results from laboratory curing show that cement and hydrated lime improved both the dry and wet ITS results. Baghouse fines increased the dry ITS but not the wet ITS, while the fly ash only enhanced the wet ITS. Higher additive contents did not improve dry or wet ITS results, except for cement. The field-simulated curing results show all the additives improved the dry ITS over long periods of time but were not effective in the short term. The ITS results from long-term field-simulated curing and laboratory curing ranked these mixtures similarly. Confinement during curing did not have a significant effect on the dry ITS.
Assessment of Different Modalities in Gluteoplasty
Authors: Khachaba Youssif , Ashour Tarek , Aboul Nasr Laila , Zamer Sherif
Published: August 2018

The form and size of the female gluteal region have always symbolized beauty and sexuality. There is a remarkable increase in the number of patients seeking gluteoplasty worldwide. Gluteoplasty may be achieved by silicone implant insertion or autologous fat transfer, in addition to other ancillary procedures including liposuction. Careful patient selection and evaluation are needed to assure good results. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of silicone implants, autologous fat transfer, and liposuction in gluteoplasty. A total of 22 patients underwent gluteoplasty. Intramuscular gluteal implant insertion was employed in 8 patients, whereas autologous fat transfer was employed in 14 patients. The average patient satisfaction (on a scale from 1 to 5) following implant gluteoplasty was 4.25 for the overall aesthetic outcome, whereas the average patient satisfaction following autologous fat transfer gluteoplasty was 4.79 for the overall aesthetic outcome. Both gluteoplasties with silicone implants or fat transfer achieved favorable results, with very good to excellent patients’ satisfaction after both procedures, with slightly better satisfaction following autologous fat transfer. Our results are comparable with before published results, with favorable outcomes regarding complications. Liposuction is an important addition that positively affects the aesthetic result. Gluteoplasty using silicone implants or fat transfer, in addition to ancillary liposuction, achieved favorable results, with very good to excellent patients’ satisfaction. However, a larger scale study is needed to statistically approve or disapprove to this trend.
Effects of Botulinum Toxin A Observed During Early Scar Formation Following Rhytidectomy: Controlled, Double-Blinded Pilot Study
Authors: Chambers Alexandra
Published: August 2018

Several past studies have suggested there are benefits to using botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNTA) for improving the aesthetic appearance of established scars. This article describes a study on the prophylactic use of BoNTA for controlling scar formations as they occur. It is based on a small, double-blinded, controlled group of patients having just undergone a facelift procedure. The results suggest that the use of BoNTA just after surgery yield both quantitative and qualitative aesthetic benefits, and the data provide some guidance on optimal doses.
Novel phytochemical Cissus quadrangularis extract–loaded chitosan/Na-carboxymethyl cellulose–based scaffolds for bone regeneration
Authors: Tamburaci Sedef , Kimna Ceren , Tihminlioglu Funda
Published: August 2018

Medicinal plants are attracting considerable interest as a potential therapeutic agent for bone tissue regeneration. Cissus quadrangularis L. is also a medicinal plant known with its osteogenic activity. In this study, a phytochemical scaffold was produced by incorporating Cissus quadrangularis with chitosan/Na-carboxymethyl cellulose blend by lyophilization technique. The effect of Cissus quadrangularis loading on the mechanical, morphological, chemical, and degradation properties as well as in vitro cytotoxicity, cell proliferation, and differentiation of the composites was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that porous Cissus quadrangularis–loaded scaffolds were obtained with an average pore size of 148–209 µm which is appropriate for bone regeneration. Cissus quadrangularis incorporation enhanced the compression modulus of scaffolds from 76 to 654 kPa. In vitro cell culture results indicated that Cissus quadrangularis/chitosan/Na-carboxymethyl cellulose scaffolds provided a favorable substrate for the osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and mineralization. Results supported the osteoinductive property of the Cissus quadrangularis extract–incorporated scaffolds even without osteogenic media supplement. Cissus quadrangularis extract increased the alkaline phosphatase activity of the SaOS-2 cells on scaffolds on 7th and 14th days of incubation. The investigation of characterization and cell culture studies suggest that Cissus quadrangularis–loaded osteoinductive Cissus quadrangularis/chitosan/Na-carboxymethyl cellulose scaffold can serve as a potential biomaterial for bone tissue engineering applications.
Kefiran biopolymer: Evaluation of its physicochemical and biological properties
Authors: Radhouani Hajer , Gonçalves Cristiana , Maia Fátima R , Oliveira Joaquim M , Reis Rui L
Published: August 2018

Kefiran, an exopolysaccharide produced by lactic acid bacteria, has received a great interest due to a variety of health claims. In this study, we aim to investigate the physicochemical and biological properties of Kefiran polysaccharide extracted from Portuguese kefir grains. The kefir growth rate was about 56% (w/w) at room temperature and the kefir pH after 24 h was about 4.6. The obtained yield of Kefiran polysaccharide extracted from the kefir grains was about 4.26% (w/w). The Kefiran structural features were showed in the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum. The bands observed in the infrared spectrum confirmed that the Kefiran had a β-configuration; and the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed the structure and composition of Kefiran and revealed a C/O atomic ratio of 1.46. Moreover, Kefiran showed an average molecular weight (Mw) of 534 kDa and a number-average molecular weight (Mn) of 357 kDa. Regarding the rheological data obtained, Kefiran showed an interesting adhesive performance accompanied by a pseudoplastic behavior, and the extrusion force of Kefiran was 1 N. Furthermore, Kefiran exhibited a higher resistance to hyaluronidase degradation than hyaluronic acid. Finally, Kefiran showed a lack of cytotoxic response through its ability to support metabolic activity and proliferation of L929 cells, and had no effect on these cells’ morphology. Our research suggested that Kefiran polymer has attractive and interesting properties for a wide range of biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Shades of Communitas: A Study of Soft Skills Programs
Authors: Fixsen Alison , Ridge Damien
Published: August 2018

In societies where neoliberal individualism prevails, communal experiences nevertheless remain crucial to human life. Drawing on participant data from a series of soft skills programs (SSPs) for Higher Education (HE) staff, we investigated SSP social worlds, their role in staff navigation in uncertain times and points of resistance within them. We found SSPs to be distinctly performative platforms, engaging actors in various self-care and entrepreneurial activities. A complex network of relationships was established via SSPs, as well as group effects akin to communitas, in “lighter” and “darker” forms. Incongruities of SSPs included gender imbalances and emotional management problems, while a mismatch between managerial attempts to create positive communitas and the reality of mounting workloads and job-cuts facing HE staff were noted in this study. SSPs may help counter organizational siloism, yet reflect the ambiguities within neoliberal culture and can deter staff from pursuing political modes of collective expression in the workplace.
Research with children and young people on sensitive topics – The case of poverty and delinquency
Authors: Martins Paula Cristina , Oliveira Vitor Hugo , Tendais Iva
Published: August 2018

Research into child poverty and juvenile delinquency shares two features: both involve children and sensitive topics. This article focuses on the critical problem of the quality of children’s participation in research. Some of the ethical and methodological challenges faced in two research projects, a self-report survey on juvenile delinquency and a multi-method study of low-income families, will be discussed. The construct of engagement is proposed as a rationale to address these challenges.
TP53-dependence on the effect of doxorubicin and Src inhibitor combination therapy
Authors: Lee Yun Sun , Choi Ji-Yoon , Lee Jeeyun , Shim Da Mi , Kim Jaesoo , Park Woong-Yang , Nam Do-Hyun , Seo Sung Wook
Published: August 2018

The anticancer effects of Src kinase inhibitors are controversial. This study found an association between alterations in the TP53 gene and the synergy score for combination treatment with doxorubicin and an Src kinase inhibitor using human osteosarcoma cell lines (MG63 and U2OS) and human colon cancer cell line. Doxorubicin was found to activate signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 via Src kinase in cancer cells harboring alterations in TP53. A drug combination study using patient-derived cells confirmed that an Src kinase inhibitor synergizes with doxorubicin in cancer cells harboring alterations in TP53, while antagonizing its effect in cancer cells expressing wild-type TP53. Our findings suggest that genetic alterations in TP53 are a critical factor in determining the use of a combination treatment of doxorubicin and Src inhibitors.
A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators to Mammography in American Indian/Alaska Native Women
Authors: Jerome-D’Emilia Bonnie , Gachupin Francine C. , Suplee Patricia D.
Published: August 2018

Introduction: The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize the current knowledge of factors that enable or impede American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) women from accessing breast cancer screening. Methodology: A systematic search of MEDLINE and CINAHL databases identified relevant research studies published from 2007 to 2017. Results: Consistent with other low-income populations, socioeconomic factors were related to lower rates of screening in AI/AN women. However, some factors, such as reliance on the Indian Health Service, cultural issues, and traditionality were unique to this population. Discussion: AI/AN women appear to face many of the difficulties that other low-income minority women face in accessing preventive care; however, they may face unique challenges and circumstances in accessing care. Efforts to work with tribes in the development of interventions framed by community-based participatory research are needed to tackle the disparities in the AI/AN community.
In Sickness and Health: Views on Child Health From a Mayan Village
Authors: Braxton Morgan E. , Larson Kim L.
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Guatemala is the only country in Central America with a majority indigenous population. Most indigenous Mayans prefer to seek health advice from family members. It is important to understand the beliefs of Mayan caregivers. The purpose of this study was to examine indigenous ways of explaining health and illness in the context of one Mayan village. Method: We applied a qualitative descriptive design in summer 2017. Interviews were conducted in Spanish with 10 Mayan caregivers, who were primarily female, between ages 19 and 50 years, in Guatemala. The sample was drawn from families who received a water filter the previous year. Results: Health was explained by access to food, including local herbs, and clean water. Illness was explained by bodily symptoms and behavioral changes. Discussion: Findings align with several United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and suggest a need to strategize with global partners.
Finite thermoelastoplasticity and creep under small elastic strains
Authors: Roubíček Tomáš , Stefanelli Ulisse
Published: August 2018

A mathematical model for an elastoplastic continuum subject to large strains is presented. The inelastic response is modelled within the frame of rate-dependent gradient plasticity for non-simple materials. Heat diffuses through the continuum by the Fourier law in the actual deformed configuration. Inertia makes the nonlinear problem hyperbolic. The modelling assumption of small elastic Green–Lagrange strains is combined in a thermodynamically consistent way with the possibly large displacements and large plastic strain. The model is amenable to a rigorous mathematical analysis. The existence of suitably defined weak solutions and a convergence result for Galerkin approximations is proved.
My dysphoria blues: Or why I cannot write an autoethnography
Authors: O’Shea Saoirse Caitlin
Published: August 2018

In this essay, I would like to ask if we are concerned with writing about difference or writing differently. I attempt to present an account of my on-going experience of dysphoria and consider how I write about that experience. I reveal how my writing has no epiphany, is repetitive and in its characterless depiction of others is a two-dimensional, monologue that fails the conventions of an evocative autoethnographic account. My writing is ‘bad writing’ but what should become of it? Does a concern with style, whether or not over content, based on taste preclude some stories and different ways of writing? Should I be excluded from academe and silenced, or can room be found for a tasteless account like mine? I end my essay by provocatively owning the label of bad writing.