bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Józefa Obrębskiego etnosocjologia Polesia w świetle pytań o jego życie i dzieło. Tytułem wprowadzenia
Authors: Engelking Anna
Published: December 2019

Józef Obrębski’s ethnosociology of Polesie in light of his life and work. As for introductionThe article provides comments to five articles constituting the cycle entitled ”Józef Obrębski – Ethnosociology – Polesie then and now” and contextualises them in a bio-historical perspective. It presents an outline of Obrębski's scientific biography and reflects upon the causes of his absence in the mainstream history of anthropology and sociology. Although from the point of view of western principles of success Obrębski did not succeeded in his scientific career, he definitely was a remarkable actor of the scientific field. His takeaways and inspirations have started to influence this field not earlier than after his death. The articles included in the current cycle represent one of the examples of contemporary reception of Obrębski's outcome, generating a scientific discussion. Józefa Obrębskiego etnosocjologia Polesia w świetle pytań o jego życie i dzieło. Tytułem wprowadzeniaArtykuł komentuje i kontekstualizuje teksty zamieszczone w cyklu „Józef Obrębski – Etnosocjologia – Polesie wczoraj i dziś”. Przez przedstawienie zarysu drogi naukowej Obrębskiego i refleksję nad przyczynami nieobecności tego uczonego w kanonie historii antropologii i socjologii ustanawia wspólną dla całego cyklu perspektywę biograficzno-historyczną. Mimo że z punktu widzenia zachodnich kategorii sukcesu, Obrębski nie zrobił kariery naukowej, był wybitnym aktorem pola nauki. Jego ustalenia i inspiracje zaczęły wywierać wpływ na to pole dopiero po jego śmierci. Prezentowane teksty są jednym z przykładów współczesnej recepcji Obrębskiego, generującej naukową dyskusję.
Phoenicians Preferred Red Pigments: Chemical Compositions of Make-Up Powders Found in Archaeological Sites from Sicily
Authors: Baraldi Cecilia , Toti Maria Pamela , Van Elslande Elsa , Walter Philippe , Gamberini Maria Cristina
Published: December 2019

Little is known concerning Phoenician and Punic cosmetics, and pertinent studies and analyses on archaeological finds are particularly scanty. The present study has taken into account 22 archaeological red and pink Punic make-up samples collected in several Sicilian museums. The samples were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The analyses revealed an interesting and unusual variability in the use of raw materials, ranging from the mineral to the organic world. Not only traditional dye-based pigments were identified, but also rare ones never reported previously for this use. We show also an occurrence unusual in antiquity of a lead chromate block presumably intended to be ground just before its use in cosmetics.
Christchurch Psychiatric Epidemiology Study, Part I: Methodology and Lifetime Prevalence for Specific Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Wells J. Elisabeth , Bushnell John A. , Hornblow Andrew R. , Joyce Peter R. , Oakley-Browne Mark A.
Published: December 2019

In 1986 the Christchurch Psychiatric Epidemiology Study obtained interviews with a probability sample of 1498 adults aged 18 to 64 years. The Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) was used to enable DSM-III diagnoses to be made. This paper describes the methodology of the study and reports the lifetime prevalence of specific psychiatric disorders. The highest lifetime prevalences found were for generalised anxiety (31%), alcohol abuse/dependence (19%) and major depressive episode (13%). Men had higher rates of substance abuse whereas women had higher rates of affective disorders and most anxiety disorders. Compared with results from the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Program, Puerto Rico and Edmonton, Christchurch has the highest rates for major depression and is among the highest for alcohol abuse/dependence.
Endogenous Depression as a Construct: A Quantitative Analysis of the Literature and a Study of Clinician Judgements
Authors: Parker Gordon , Hadzi-Pavlovic Dusan , Boyce Philip
Published: December 2019

We review the concept of endogenous depression historically and undertake quantitative analyses of representative factor analytic studies. We also report an empirical study, isolating symptoms and signs associated with a clinical diagnosis of psychotic/endogenous depression, made by a large number of clinical raters assessing 300 depressives. The quantitative analyses and the study of practising psychiatrists agreed in delineating depressive type and together suggest a more restricted construct of endogenous and psychotic depression than has been held historically. Key clinical features isolated were severity, retardation, delusions and paranoid features, non-reactivity and non-variability in mood, while vegetative features appeared to lack relevance.
Treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder with Light: Preliminary Australian Experience
Authors: McIntyre Iain M. , Armstrong Stuart M. , Norman Trevor R. , Burrows Graham D.
Published: December 2019

Six patients with a history of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) were treated with bright artificial light. Patients presented with at least two consecutive years of loss of energy, difficulty in working, loss of interest in activities, difficulty in concentrating, increased somnolence, over-eating (carbohydrate craving) and depressed mood. All received seven consecutive days of full-spectrum bright light with an intensity greater than 2,500 lux at a distance of three feet. Evening exposure for two hours resulted in significant clinical improvement. The main improvements were a return to normal sleeping patterns, a reduction in eating habits, improved energy level, a desire to continue with interests and activities and an improvement in mood. Possible mechanisms for the clinical effects of bright light treatment are discussed.
Understanding Family Variables in Outcome Research in Schizophrenia
Authors: Bland Robert
Published: December 2019

Outcome studies in schizophrenia research consistently show the importance of family variables in predicting patient relapse. The concept of expressed emotion (EE) is clinically relevant, though concerns remain about its precise meaning. The history of the EE studies is reviewed in the light of other family research, and an alternative model of family emotional environment is proposed. A number of clinical implications are considered.
A Family Panics
Authors: Hickie Ian , Silove Derrick
Published: December 2019

We report the treatment of a family in which both spouses developed panic disorder, and their son school phobia, soon after the death of a close relative. The interactional style observed within this family suggested that interpersonal factors were important in the generation of anxiety in each member. Detailed case histories such as the one we report underscore the importance of a systemic perspective when assessing individuals who present with anxiety disorders.
A tale of three approaches: Leveraging organizational discourse analysis, relational event modeling, and dynamic network analysis for collective leadership
Authors: Maupin Cynthia K , McCusker Maureen E , Slaughter Andrew J , Ruark Gregory A
Published: December 2019

How can we enhance theory-method alignment when studying collective leadership? We propose that leveraging methodological approaches that are powerful enough to address three primary challenges of collective leadership—the incorporation of time, context, and multiple levels—will promote a more robust body of collective leadership research and practice. In particular, we review and integrate three complementary methodological approaches—organizational discourse analysis, relational event modeling, and dynamic network analysis—which have the flexibility to address these challenges. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the utility of these methodological approaches for addressing major methodological challenges within the field of collective leadership. Through this effort, we aim to facilitate conversation across disparate streams of research and encourage researchers to explore how novel research questions and perspectives might be advanced through leveraging these methods, either in isolation or in combination.
India’s Act East Policy and ASEAN: Building a Regional Order Through Partnership in the Indo-Pacific
Authors: Ngaibiakching  , Pande Amba
Published: December 2019

Over the past few decades, India’s security concerns have undergone a substantial change. With the formulation of the Look East Policy (LEP) in the 1990s, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a regional entity became an essential component and a corridor for India’s outreach to Southeast Asia. In 2014, the LEP became more encompassing with a shift to the Act East Policy (AEP). The global security and economic environment too are witnessing significant changes with the USA taking a back seat, China’s aggressive positioning and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) coupled with the emerging geopolitical construct of ‘Indo-Pacific’. The regional stakeholders, such as ASEAN, the USA, Japan, Australia and India are yet to form a unified stand on the Indo-Pacific concept as well as the regional security architecture. The AEP appropriately fits into the current scenario as India is set to take up a larger role in the regional security environment while keeping the centrality of ASEAN intact. New Delhi seeks to create a platform for mutual development in the Indo-Pacific and engage with like-minded nations in the quest for a rules-based order that promotes transparency, respect for sovereignty and international law, stability and free and fair-trade framework. India and ASEAN can be apt partners in the Indo-Pacific to play a constructive role and build a regional order.
The Role of Discoidin Domain Receptor 2 in Tooth Development
Authors: Mohamed F.F. , Ge C. , Binrayes A. , Franceschi R.T.
Published: December 2019

Collagen signaling is critical for proper bone and tooth formation. Discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) is a collagen-activated tyrosine kinase receptor shown to be essential for skeletal development. Patients with loss of function mutations in DDR2 develop spondylo-meta-epiphyseal dysplasia (SMED), a rare, autosomal recessive disorder characterized by short stature, short limbs, and craniofacial anomalies. A similar phenotype was observed in Ddr2-deficient mice, which exhibit dwarfism and defective bone formation in the axial, appendicular, and cranial skeletons. However, it is not known if Ddr2 has a role in tooth formation. We first defined the expression pattern of Ddr2 during tooth formation using Ddr2-LacZ knock-in mice. Ddr2 expression was detected in the dental follicle/sac and dental papilla mesenchyme of developing teeth and in odontoblasts and the periodontal ligament (PDL) of adults. No LacZ staining was detected in wild-type littermates. This Ddr2 expression pattern suggests a potential role in the tooth and surrounding periodontium. To uncover the function of Ddr2, we used Ddr2 slie/slie mice, which contain a spontaneous 150-kb deletion in the Ddr2 locus to produce an effective null. In comparison with wild-type littermates, Ddr2 slie/slie mice displayed disproportional tooth size (decreased root/crown ratio), delayed tooth root development, widened PDL space, and interradicular alveolar bone defects. Ddr2 slie/slie mice also had abnormal collagen content associated with upregulation of periostin levels within the PDL. The delayed root formation and periodontal abnormalities may be related to defects in RUNX2-dependent differentiation of odontoblasts and osteoblasts; RUNX2-S319-P was reduced in PDLs from Ddr2 slie/slie mice, and deletion of Ddr2 in primary cell cultures from dental pulp and PDL inhibited differentiation of cells to odontoblasts or osteoblasts, respectively. Together, our studies demonstrate odontoblast- and PDL-specific expression of Ddr2 in mature and immature teeth, as well as indicate that DDR2 signaling is important for normal tooth formation and maintenance of the surrounding periodontium.
Timing of Syntactic and Rhythmic Effects on Ambiguity Resolution in Turkish: A Phoneme Restoration Study
Authors: Deniz Nazik Dinçtopal , Fodor Janet Dean
Published: December 2019

It has been shown that speakers use prosodic cues to disambiguate the syntactic structure of a sentence and listeners are sensitive to such cues. But the distribution of prosodic boundaries has been reported to depend on the lengths of constituents as well as the syntactic structure of utterances. Hence, it is possible that listeners are sensitive to these alternative reasons (i.e., syntactic or length-related) for why a speaker might introduce a prosodic break (Clifton, Carlson, & Frazier, 2006). The present study of Turkish employs a phoneme restoration paradigm to investigate more closely the time-course of three factors (prosodic cues, syntactic Late Closure, and phrase length effects) in the comprehension of a late/early closure ambiguity. The results confirm a significant role of prosody in restoring missing disambiguating phonemes; listeners tended to maintain an analysis that was syntactically or prosodically favored on-line. Notably, they did not generally revise that decision in face of the rhythmic factor of phrase lengths. This may be because length contrasts become fully apparent only later in a sentence. This is supported by the fact that when tested post-sententially in a previous study of Turkish (Deniz & Fodor, 2017), it was found that phrase lengths as well as prosodic and syntactic effects did influence parsing decisions, indicating that all three sources of guidance were at work. By comparing these two studies, with their different methodologies applied to the same materials, we document here the novel finding that rhythmic phrase length effects are indeed delayed, as previously contemplated by Clifton et al.
Obstacles to applying electronic school management in Kuwait
Authors: Alanezi Ahmad
Published: December 2019

Organizations in diverse fields are faced with challenges that require them to develop, adopt, and/or innovate new administrative methods to save time and effort. Based on the need for school administrators to cope with these challenges, this study investigated the main obstacles to applying electronic school management in Kuwait from a teacher’s perspective. The findings showed that there were statistically significant differences between males and females in their views on administrative obstacles. The author recommend having an integrated plan for the process of transformation into electronic management and plan a project to shift towards the use of electronic management systems.
Parameter sensitivity analysis of pedestrian head dynamic response and injuries based on coupling simulations
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Duan Aowen , Li Kui , Qiu Jinlong , Fu Liangfei , Jia Hongchun , Yin Zhiyong
Published: December 2019

There are a very limited number of reports studying on the dynamic response and injuries of pedestrian head in the scenarios with head hitting windshield. This study aims to investigate the significant factors that affect the dynamic response and injuries of pedestrian head through finite element–multi-body coupling simulations. Two finite element vehicle models and two multi-body pedestrian human models were used to build the coupling simulations. Orthogonal experimental design and analysis of variance were used for parameter combination and data analysis. This study demonstrated that the dynamic response of pedestrian head and HIC15 were strongly associated with collision speed and pedestrian orientation. Vehicle type had a significant influence on the dynamic response of pedestrian head and HIC15, while there was no significant relationship between the dynamic response of pedestrian head and HIC15 and the size of pedestrian human models. Collision speed, pedestrian orientation, and vehicle type should be prioritized over the other collision parameters in the study of head injury mechanism and reconstruction of vehicle–pedestrian collisions in the scenarios with head hitting windshield.
Putting Self-Management in the Context of Community-Dwelling American Indians Living With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Jones Jacqueline , Goins R. Turner , Schure Mark , Winchester Blythe , Bradley Vickie
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to examine the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) defined diabetes self-care behaviors (healthy eating, being active, taking medication, monitoring, problem solving, reducing risk, and healthy coping) in the context of older community-dwelling American Indians (AIs).

Methods

Secondary theme analysis of transcribed semistructured qualitative interview data from 28 participants in the Native Elder Care Study aged >60 years identified factors that influence the DSMES self-care behaviors in the context of community-dwelling AIs.

Results

Four themes that characterized barriers, facilitators, and opportunities for DSMES to support self-care behaviors included community food security, care partners in self-care, community opportunities for diabetes support, and blending of both health worlds.

Conclusion

Tribal communities have contemporary strengths and cultural traditions that can be activated to enhance diabetes self-management education and support. Diabetes educators can work in tandem with community health representatives to strengthen the social and community support within which individual AIs with type 2 diabetes mellitus live. Community-based participatory research with AI caregivers, dyads, families, youth, and Indian Health Service clinicians may help to improve tribal food policy and school health initiatives, as well as develop intergenerational interventions for modeling effective diabetes self-management.
Commentary: A View From the Inside—A Perspective on How the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Is Innovating in Response to Feedback
Authors: McBee Elexis , Pitkin Naomi E. B. , Durning Steven J. , Burke Matthew J.
Published: December 2019

The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) is implementing new methods for the development of examination content in response to feedback from the internal medicine community and in recognition that there is always room for improvement in the assessment of the skills and knowledge of practicing physicians. First, ABIM is exploring a new cognitive model–based approach to content development in efforts to improve exam relevancy. Second, ABIM has created a new Item-Writing Task Force in an effort to ensure a broad representation of internists from across the country who are engaged in all aspects of clinical practice. Through these mechanisms, the goal is the improved fairness and validity evidence of examinations that are relevant to how medicine is practiced today.
Tax-funded digital government communication in Austria: Members of the government on Facebook
Authors: Russmann Uta , Hametner Markus , Posch Eduard
Published: December 2019

For a few years now, members of the government in Austria have been using Facebook to reach out to the public as well as to the mass media. Following normative guidelines and regulations, tax-funded government communication should be neutral, informative and autonomous of party politics. Using a multi-method approach, combining a structural analysis of formal criteria of Facebook accounts and an automated quantitative content analysis of Facebook postings, we investigated to what extent the official Facebook accounts of members of the last two Austrian governments were an exclusive tool for digital government communication. We found that not all representatives made use of Facebook. Moreover, tax-funded digital government communication on Facebook was not all neutral and autonomous of party politics. Based on our findings, we conclude that there is a lack of regulatory framework in Austria to govern tax-funded use of social media.
‘Take more laxatives was their answer to everything’: A qualitative exploration of the patient, carer and healthcare professional experience of constipation in specialist palliative care
Authors: Hasson Felicity , Muldrew Deborah , Carduff Emma , Finucane Anne , Graham-Wisener Lisa , Larkin Phil , Mccorry Noleen , Slater Paul , McIlfatrick Sonja
Published: December 2019

Background:

Constipation is a major problem for many older adults, more so for those who are receiving specialist palliative care. However, limited research reports the subjective experiences of constipation, despite evidenced differences between the healthcare professional and patient/carer perspective.

Aim:

The main aim of this study is to explore the experience of how constipation is assessed and managed within specialist palliative care from the patient, carer and healthcare professional perspective.

Design:

Exploratory, qualitative design, utilising focus groups and interviews, and analysed using thematic analysis.

Setting/participants:

Six focus groups with 27 healthcare professionals and semi-structured interviews with 13 patients and 5 family caregivers in specialist palliative care units across three regions of the United Kingdom.

Results:

Constipation impacted physically, psychologically and socially on patients and families; however, they felt staff relegated it on the list of importance. Lifestyle modifications implemented at home were not incorporated into their specialist palliative care plan within the hospice. Comparatively, healthcare professionals saw constipation solely as a physical symptom. Assessment focused on the physical elements of constipation, and management was pharmacologically driven. Healthcare professionals reported patient embarrassment as a barrier to communicating about bowel care, whereas patients wanted staff to initiate communication and discuss constipation openly.

Conclusion:

Assessment and management of constipation may not yet reflect the holistic palliative care model. A focus on the pharmacological management may result in lifestyle modifications being underutilised. Healthcare professionals also need to be open to initiate communication on bowel care and consider non-pharmacological approaches. It is important that patients and families are supported in self-care management, alongside standardised guidelines for practice and for healthcare professionals to facilitate this.
Creating Classroom Communities in Linguistically Diverse Settings: Teacher-Directed, Classroom-Level Factor Effects on Peer Dynamics
Authors: Johnson Haley E. , Molloy Elreda Lauren , Kibler Amanda K. , Futch Ehrlich Valerie A.
Published: December 2019

Employing a social capital framework, this study investigates teachers’ role in influencing the peer dynamics between English learners (ELs) and their non-EL peers. Participants include 713 students (211 EL students). Observed teacher-student interaction quality and teacher self-reports of their peer network management were used to operationalize the teacher-directed, classroom-level factors. Peer nominations of friendships within the classroom were used to operationalize students’ same-language-status (bonding capital) and cross-language-status (bridging capital) friendships. Multilevel models reveal teachers’ reported practices and observed interaction quality account for a small proportion of the variance in students’ bridging and bonding relationships at the classroom level overall, but with differential effects for EL and non-EL students. For example, in classrooms with greater reported use of bonding practices, EL students reported more bonding and fewer bridging friendships in the fall, and showed relatively less fall-to-spring growth in bridging friendships. Implications for future research and teacher training are discussed.
Knowledge of School-Going Adolescents About the Oral Effects of Tobacco Usage in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Folake B. , Fagbule Omotayo F.
Published: December 2019

Background

The individual knowledge of the effects of tobacco usage on health plays an important role in its uptake. Tobacco consumption usually starts during adolescence, and lack of knowledge about the oral problems of tobacco usage probably plays a role in it.

Aim

To determine the knowledge of adolescents about the effect of tobacco usage on oral health.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,465 adolescents aged 12 to 20 years who attended senior secondary schools in a major city in Nigeria. Data were obtained through a semistructured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed with SPSS.

Results

The mean age of respondents was 15.2 (±1.4) years. Only 40 (2.7%) of them used tobacco at the time of study and 992 (67.7%) said that tobacco usage has effect(s) on oral health. The main effects mentioned were mouth odor: 338 (34.1%); teeth discoloration: 297 (29.9%); tooth decay: 138 (13.9%); damage to teeth: 72 (7.3%); lip discoloration: 39 (3.9%); and oral cancer: 11 (1.1%). It was found that female respondents (72.1%, odds ratio = 1.4, confidence interval = 1.1–1.7, p =  .005); those aged 12 to 15 years (73.6%, odds ratio = 2.0, confidence interval = 1.6–2.5, p < .001); and children of skilled workers (73.4%, odds ratio = 1.9, confidence interval = 1.2–3.0, p =  .008) were more likely to mention that tobacco has adverse effect(s) on oral health.

Conclusion

Although two thirds of the students knew that tobacco usage has effects on oral health, there were gross inadequacies in the knowledge and misconceptions about those effects.
Development and Calibration of a Dynamic HIV Transmission Model for 6 US Cities
Authors: Zang Xiao , Krebs Emanuel , Min Jeong E. , Pandya Ankur , Marshall Brandon D. L. , Schackman Bruce R. , Behrends Czarina N. , Feaster Daniel J. , Nosyk Bohdan , Behrends Czarina N. , Del Rio Carlos , Dombrowski Julia , Feaster Daniel J , Gebo Kelly , Golden Matthew , Granich Reuben , Kerr Thomas , Kirk Gregory , Marshall Brandon D. L. , Mehta Shruti H. , Metsch Lisa , Montaner Julio , Nosyk Bohdan , Schackman Bruce R. , Shoptaw Steven , Small William , Strathdee Steffanie A.
Published: December 2019

Background. Heterogeneity in HIV microepidemics across US cities necessitates locally oriented, combination implementation strategies to prioritize resources. We calibrated and validated a dynamic, compartmental HIV transmission model to establish a status quo treatment scenario, holding constant current levels of care for 6 US cities. Methods. Built off a comprehensive evidence synthesis, we adapted and extended a previously published model to replicate the transmission, progression, and clinical care for each microepidemic. We identified a common set of 17 calibration targets between 2012 and 2015 and used the Morris method to select the most influential parameters for calibration. We then applied the Nelder-Mead algorithm to iteratively calibrate the model to generate 2000 best-fitting parameter sets. Finally, model projections were internally validated with a series of robustness checks and externally validated against published estimates of HIV incidence, while the face validity of 25-year projections was assessed by a Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC). Results. We documented our process for model development, calibration, and validation to maximize its transparency and reproducibility. The projected outcomes demonstrated a good fit to calibration targets, with a mean goodness-of-fit ranging from 0.0174 (New York City [NYC]) to 0.0861 (Atlanta). Most of the incidence predictions were within the uncertainty range for 5 of the 6 cities (ranging from 21% [Miami] to 100% [NYC]), demonstrating good external validity. The face validity of the long-term projections was confirmed by our SAC, showing that the incidence would decrease or remain stable in Atlanta, Los Angeles, NYC, and Seattle while increasing in Baltimore and Miami. Discussion. This exercise provides a basis for assessing the incremental value of further investments in HIV combination implementation strategies tailored to urban HIV microepidemics.
Serum and follicular fluid levels of serotonin, kisspeptin, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization: an observational study
Authors: Bódis József , Sulyok Endre , Kőszegi Tamás , Prémusz Viktória , Várnagy Ákos , Koppán Miklós
Published: December 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effect of interactions between serotonin (5-HT), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and kisspeptin on the reproductive potential in women receiving in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Methods

Paired serum and follicular fluid (FF) samples were obtained from 30 consecutive patients receiving IVF. Primary and secondary outcome measures were the rate of chemical/clinical pregnancy and the number of mature oocytes and embryos, respectively. Serum and FF 5-HT, BDNF, kisspeptin, and platelet-activating factor (PAF) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

In response to ovarian hyperstimulation, serum 5-HT and kisspeptin levels significantly increased, whereas serum BDNF and PAF levels remained unchanged. These factors were detected in FF, but they were unrelated to serum levels. FF 5-HT and BDNF levels were positively correlated. Serum kisspeptin levels were negatively correlated with FF BDNF and serum and FF PAF levels. Women who were pregnant had significantly lower FF BDNF levels compared with women who were not pregnant (21.96±12.75 vs 47.63±52.90 µg/mL). Multivariate stepwise linear regression and logistic regression analyses showed that only 5-HT and kisspeptin improved IVF outcome.

Conclusions

This study indicates a role of serotoninergic mechanisms in success of IVF, but the contribution of interacting neuropeptides requires additional investigation.
Modelling urban change with cellular automata: Contemporary issues and future research directions
Authors: Liu Yan , Batty Michael , Wang Siqin , Corcoran Jonathan
Published: December 2019

The study of land use change in urban and regional systems has been dramatically transformed in the last four decades by the emergence and application of cellular automata (CA) models. CA models simulate urban land use changes which evolve from the bottom-up. Despite notable achievements in this field, there remain significant gaps between urban processes simulated in CA models and the actual dynamics of evolving urban systems. This article identifies contemporary issues faced in developing urban CA models and draws on this evidence to map out four interrelated thematic areas that require concerted attention by the wider CA urban modelling community. These are: (1) to build models that comprehensively capture the multi-dimensional processes of urban change, including urban regeneration, densification and gentrification, in-fill development, as well as urban shrinkage and vertical urban growth; (2) to establish models that incorporate individual human decision behaviours into the CA analytic framework; (3) to draw on emergent sources of ‘big data’ to calibrate and validate urban CA models and to capture the role of human actors and their impact on urban change dynamics; and (4) to strengthen theory-based CA models that comprehensively explain urban change mechanisms and dynamics. We conclude by advocating cellular automata that embed agent-based models and big data input as the most promising analytical framework through which we can enhance our understanding and planning of the contemporary urban change dynamics.
Clinical features and sex differences in pediatric post-traumatic headache: A retrospective chart review at a Boston area concussion clinic
Authors: McEvoy Haley , Borsook David , Holmes Scott A
Published: December 2019

Background

Often concussion/mTBI triggers a chronic headache syndrome called persistent post-traumatic headache (P-PTH) that can last from months to years post-injury, and produce significant disruption of childhood education, social interaction and development. Although prevalent and highly disabling, P-PTH is underrepresented in headache and pain research and lacks clear definition and pathophysiology. Clinical presentation of P-PTH frequently resembles that of other headache disorders, like migraine, yet the pathophysiological mechanisms are distinct and not fully understood, making the disorder difficult to treat in the clinical setting.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis of 1506 pediatric patients attending Boston Children’s Hospital clinics, demographic trends, symptom features, and the influence of sex on clinical presentation of PTH are presented. We compare clinical characteristics of P-PTH with a published cohort of migraine patients to evaluate the clinical features that are unique to P-PTH.

Results

Findings show that despite equivalent representation of sex in the clinic, P-PTH is expressed more in females than males and is weighted towards somatic symptoms. Relative to migraine, PTH is less associated with a family history of headache.

Conclusions

The ability to identify persons with PTH can help manage risk factors and identify persons likely to develop persistent post-concussion symptoms.
Quantification of photophobia in visual snow syndrome: A case-control study
Authors: Eren Ozan E , Ruscheweyh Ruth , Straube Andreas , Schankin Christoph J
Published: December 2019

Objective

To quantify photophobia in visual snow syndrome (VSS), a debilitating migraine-associated visual disturbance manifesting with continuous “TV snow-like” flickering dots in the entire visual field and additional visual symptoms, such as photophobia.

Methods

Photophobia was compared between 19 patients with VSS and 19 controls matched for age, sex, migraine and aura using the Leiden Visual Sensitivity Scale (L-VISS).

Results

Patients with VSS had an increased L-VISS-score compared to matched controls [(22.2 ± 5.9 vs. 4.4 ± 4.8; ANOVA, factors VSS and comorbid migraine: Main effect for VSS (F = 100.70; p < 0.001), but not for migraine (F < 0.01; p = 1.00) or the interaction (F = 1.93; p = 0.16)]. An L-VISS-score of 14 identified VSS with a sensitivity and specificity of 95% (Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis, 0.986 ± 0.014, p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with VSS suffer continuously from photophobia at a level similar to chronic migraineurs during attacks. Although migraine and VSS share dysfunctional visual processing, patients with VSS might be more severely affected.
Investigating the co-firing characteristics of bamboo wastes and coal through cone calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Xiang Hongzhong , Feng Zixing , Yang Jianfei , Hu Wanhe , Liang Fang , Yang Xiaomeng , Zhang Tao , Mi Bingbing , Liu Zhijia
Published: December 2019

To evaluate the combustion characteristics of raw or torrefied bamboo wastes and coal blends, the co-firing process determined by cone and pollutant emission was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed that torrefaction improved the fuel properties of bamboo wastes. Torrefied bamboo had a lower volatile fuel ratio, H/C and O/C ratios, pollutant emission and a higher heating value. They further affected the co-firing process of raw or torrefied bamboo and coal. All blends had a lower ignition temperature and a more stable flame than coal. Torrefied bamboo and coal blends had a lower percentage of quality loss, a higher heat release rate (HRR), total heat release (THR) and total smoke release (TSR). With an increase in the proportion of torrefied bamboo in the blends, the HRR, THR, TSR and percentage of quality loss increased. The main pollutant emissions included CO2, CO, SO2 and NO x. All blends of torrefied bamboo and coal had a lower pollutant emission. The optimum blend suggested was 20% torrefied bamboo/80% coal.
Developments in China–Turkey Relations: A View From China
Authors: Chen Yang
Published: December 2019

Turkey’s attempted military coup on 15 July 2016 provided an opportunity for China and Turkey to improve cooperative relations. After the military coup, Turkey experienced a severe internal political crisis. Structural contradiction with traditional Western allies forced Turkey to reconsider its allegiances and political positions. Several high-level Chinese delegations to Turkey played an important role in improving Turkey’s political stability, economic development and national security. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s re-election as president of Turkey, the strategic coordination between Turkey and China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Turkey’s Middle Corridor project all accelerated and promoted China–Turkey relations. This is a golden opportunity for China and Turkey to build the strategic cooperation relations that began in 2010. If Turkey can accommodate the core interests of and establish political ties with China, further cooperation between the two countries will not only benefit both, but also have a great impact on regional stability and global governance.
Indole-based high-performance polymeric materials with enhanced mechanical and thermal properties via cation-π interaction
Authors: Guan Xiao-fang , Liao Cong , Yang Li , Chang Guan-jun
Published: December 2019

The preparation of high-performance polymeric materials with both excellent overall mechanical properties and heat resistance remains a considerable challenge. Inspired by the delicate self-assembly processes in nature, a facile strategy is reported for the preparation of high-performance polymeric materials with enhanced mechanical strength and improved thermal stability. In this instance, we successfully constructed a cation- π cross-linked polyimide (Na-poly(aryl indole) imide (Na-PINI)) film with enhanced mechanical performance and heat resistance (∼490°C). This work presents an innovative design strategy for realizing robust polymeric materials with integrated strength and thermal stability; the cation- π interaction is demonstrated to be a new method that may achieve many useful properties for high-performance polymers.
Multifunctional halloysite nanotube–reinforced polypropylene/polyamide binary nanocomposites
Authors: Ng CL , Chow WS
Published: December 2019

This article highlights the potential of halloysite nanotube (HNT) as a multifunctional filler for polypropylene/polyamide 66 (PP/PA66) blends, for their roles as the reinforcing agent, compatibilizer, nucleating agent, and thermal stabilizer. The flexural modulus and strength of PP/PA66 were improved by the incorporation of HNT due to the reinforcing ability and compatibilization effects of HNT. 4 parts per hundred resin (phr) of HNT improved the thermal stability of PP/PA66 blends due to its heat barrier effects. Adding HNT increased the degree of crystallinity for PP and PA66, where the effects of HNT were more prominent in the PA66 phase, attributed to additional hydrogen bonding formation between the PA66 and HNT.
Faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use in Portugal: Results from the National Health Survey 2014
Authors: Khan Haseeb , Shaaban Nabil , Peleteiro Bárbara
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Given the recent implementation of regional colorectal cancer screening programs in Portugal, understanding patterns of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy use is essential to improve its control. We aimed to describe the use of both tests and to identify factors associated with its non- and under-use.

Methods

A sample of 7208 subjects aged 50–74 from the National Health Survey 2014 was examined. Previous experience of faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy was classified as never or ever; ever-users, who had last undergone these tests more than 2 or 10 years before, respectively, were considered under-users. We computed age- and education-adjusted prevalence ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals for non- and under-use.

Results

Of the individuals in the screening age range, 36.9% had never undergone either test. The prevalence of non-use was 50.7% and 62.2% for faecal occult blood test and colonoscopy, and 27.4% and 6.0% of subjects under-used each test, respectively. The lowest prevalence of non- and under-use was found in the Norte region. Low socioeconomic status and unhealthy lifestyles were significantly associated with low testing; greater use was observed for those having more recent contact with healthcare services.

Conclusions

This study identifies patterns of colorectal cancer screening use, with regional disparities that have not yet been reduced by the implementation of organised screening programmes.
Mapping the prison mental health service workforce in Australia
Authors: Davidson Fiona , Clugston Bobbie , Perrin Michelle , Williams Megan , Heffernan Edward , Kinner Stuart A
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The rapidly growing number of people in prison in Australia, combined with the high prevalence of mental disorder in this population, results in high demand for mental health services in prison settings. Despite their critical role as part of a national mental health response, prison mental health services (PMHS) in Australia have been poorly characterised. In this paper, we describe findings of the first national survey of PMHS in Australia.

Methods:

We distributed a survey to key representatives of PMHS in all Australian states and territories in 2016.

Results:

Our method constitutes a replicable process for quantifying and comparing PMHS in Australia. We describe the structure, governance and staffing models in seven jurisdictions. When compared against international recommendations, only one Australian jurisdiction (the ACT) is funded to provide services at a level equivalent to mental health services provided in the community.

Conclusion:

Prison mental health services in Australia are delivered by a complex mix of government, private sector and non-government services. Services appear to be severely under-resourced when compared with the available benchmarks.
The Climate Action Simulation
Authors: Rooney-Varga Juliette N. , Kapmeier Florian , Sterman John D. , Jones Andrew P. , Putko Michele , Rath Kenneth
Published: December 2019

Background. We describe and provide an initial evaluation of the Climate Action Simulation, a simulation-based role-playing game that enables participants to learn for themselves about the response of the climate-energy system to potential policies and actions. Participants gain an understanding of the scale and urgency of climate action, the impact of different policies and actions, and the dynamics and interactions of different policy choices.

Intervention. The Climate Action Simulation combines an interactive computer model, En-ROADS, with a role-play in which participants make decisions about energy and climate policy. They learn about the dynamics of the climate and energy systems as they discover how En-ROADS responds to their own climate-energy decisions.

Methods. We evaluated learning outcomes from the Climate Action Simulation using pre- and post-simulation surveys as well as a focus group.

Results. Analysis of survey results showed that the Climate Action Simulation increases participants’ knowledge about the scale of emissions reductions and policies and actions needed to address climate change. Their personal and emotional engagement with climate change also grew. Focus group participants were overwhelmingly positive about the Climate Action Simulation, saying it left them feeling empowered to make a positive difference in addressing the climate challenge.

Discussion and Conclusions. Initial evaluation results indicate that the Climate Action Simulation offers an engaging experience that delivers gains in knowledge about the climate and energy systems, while also opening affective and social learning pathways.
A nonlinear electro-elastic model with residual stresses and a preferred direction
Authors: Shariff MHBM , Bustamante Roger , Merodio Jose
Published: December 2019

In this communication, a spectral model is developed for a residually stressed electro-elastic body with a preferred direction. The model uses a total energy function that depends on the right stretch tensor, the residual stress tensor, a preferred direction structural tensor and one of the electric variables. The proposed spectral invariants have a clear physical meaning; using these invariants, we prove that only [Formula: see text] of the [Formula: see text] classical invariants in the corresponding minimal integrity basis are independent. A method for exclusion or partial exclusion of compressed fibres is proposed. Some boundary value problems with cylindrical symmetry are studied. Results for the inflation of a hollow sphere, where the residual stress is assumed to depend only on the radial position, are also given. The spectral constitutive formulation is useful in a rigorous construction of a specific form of the total energy function via appropriate experiments.
Naturally Occurring Level of Aflatoxin B1 Injures Human, Canine and Bovine Leukocytes Through ATP Depletion and Caspase Activation
Authors: Mehrzad Jalil , Fazel Fatemeh , Pouyamehr Nazaninzeynam , Hosseinkhani Saman , Dehghani Hesam
Published: December 2019

Aflatoxin (AF) B1 is a potent hepatotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic mycotoxin and may cause immune suppression/dysregulation in humans and animals. Toxic effects of AFB1 on key mammalian immune cells (ie, leukocytes) needs to be mechanistically elucidated. In this study, along with the determination of AFB1’s LC50 for certain leukocytes, we analyzed the effect of naturally occurring levels of AFB1 on apoptosis/necrosis of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes from healthy young humans (20- to 25-year-old male), dogs (1- to 2-year-old Persian/herd breed), and cattle (1- to 2-year-old cattle). Leukocytes were incubated for approximately 24 hours with naturally occurring levels of AFB1 (10 ng/mL). Intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion and caspase-3/7 activity were then determined by luciferase-dependent bioluminescence (BL). Furthermore, the necrotic leukocytes were measured using propidium iodide (PI)-related flow cytometry. A significant decrease (24%-45%, 33.2% ± 2.7%) in intracellular ATP content was observed in AFB1-treated neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes in all studied mammals. Also, with such a low level (10 ng/mL) of AFB1, BL-based caspase-3/7 activity (BL intensity) in all 3 tested mammalian leukocyte lineages was noticeably increased (∼>2-fold). Flow cytometry-based PI staining (for viability assay) of the AFB1-treated leukocytes showed slightly/insignificantly more increase of necrotic (PI+) neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes in human, dogs, and cattle. Even though in vitro LC50s for AFB1’ (∼20,000-40,000 ng/mL) were approximately 2,000 to 4,000 times higher than background, these studies demonstrate leukocytes from human and farm/companion animals are sensitive to naturally occurring levels of AFB1. The observed in vitro ATP depletion and caspase activation in AFB1-exposed leukocytes can partially explain the underlying mechanisms of AFB1-induced immune disorders in mammals.
Law Enforcement Activities of Philadelphia’s Group Violence Intervention: An Examination of Arrest, Case Processing, and Probation Levers
Authors: Roman Caterina G. , Forney Megan , Hyatt Jordan M. , Klein Hannah J. , Link Nathan W.
Published: December 2019

The number of jurisdictions implementing focused deterrence strategies targeted at gangs continues unabated. Although recent research suggests positive impacts of the strategy on reductions in gun violence, little is known about the particular mechanisms operating behind the strategy. This article provides a descriptive analysis of the law enforcement activities or levers undertaken after enforcement operations in Philadelphia as a part of the focused deterrence strategy. The article quantifies the execution of levers related to arrest, case processing, and probation sanctioning during enforcement activities after shootings. The results show that Philadelphia achieved success in implementing the enforcement levers as intended, and there was little evidence that arrest practices were overly aggressive. The authors suggest that future evaluations seek to carefully document the wide array of levers used in concert with an assessment of community understanding of and reactions to the strategy as well as an examination of reactions of group members targeted.