bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sudden Events Change Old Visual Objects Into New Ones: A Possible Role for Phasic Activation of Locus Coeruleus
Authors: Jefferies Lisa N. , Di Lollo Vincent
Published: November 2018

We report a novel visual phenomenon called the rejuvenation effect. It causes an “old” object that has been on view for some time to acquire the properties of a suddenly appearing new object. In each experiment, a square outline was displayed continuously on one side of fixation. The target (an asterisk) was presented either inside the square or on the opposite side of fixation. On half of the trials, a transient visual or auditory event preceded the target. In Experiment 1a ( N = 139), response times were faster when the target appeared inside the square, but only when it was preceded by a transient event, consistent with the network-reset theory of locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) phasic activation. Three further experiments confirmed the predictions of network-reset theory, including the absence of rejuvenation in participants with atypical LC-NE functioning (individuals with symptoms of autism spectrum disorder). These findings provide new perspectives on what causes a visual object to be perceived as new.
Engaging Underrepresented International Students as Partners: Agency and Constraints Among Rwandan Students in the United States
Authors: Baxter Aryn
Published: November 2018

As international student mobility expands and student populations grow increasingly diverse, there is a need to engage underrepresented international students as partners to better understand their lived experiences and co-construct supports for navigating the opportunities and constraints that accompany mobility. This article presents findings from a multisited ethnography that examines the experiences of scholarship recipients from Rwanda pursuing undergraduate degrees in the United States. Drawing on spatial and transnational theories, the study illuminates how student engagement is constrained by conflicting expectations, representations, and relationships and highlights how students exercise agency as they navigate their international education experiences. In drawing attention to the diversity of international students’ spatial imaginaries, the study provides a starting point for universities to develop deeper and more sensitive understandings of mobile students’ differences.
Online parameter identification methods for oscillatory systems: Estimation of changes in stiffness properties
Authors: Ludwig Christoph , Junge Oliver , Wever Utz
Published: November 2018

Model based real-time parameter identification in oscillating systems is a topic of ongoing interest, especially in the context of fault diagnosis during the operation of the system. At the core is a sufficiently small model which is successively calibrated by measurement data. For smooth data such as temperatures, Kalman-based filtering works well. However, for highly oscillatory data from, for example, rotating systems which are often additionally disturbed by harmonic excitations, these methods are prone to failure. In this paper we present an identification method that is able to detect changes in the stiffness properties of the system characterized by a single fault parameter based on frequency data. Its superior performance is demonstrated by a mass–spring system as well as a rotating shaft.
Homogenization of an elastic material reinforced with thin rigid von Kármán ribbons
Authors: El Jarroudi Mustapha
Published: November 2018

We study the homogenization of an elastic material reinforced with periodic parallel elastic ribbons of higher rigidity. We assume that the ribbons are isotropic von Kármán plates of highly contrasting rigidity with respect to that of the matrix. We assume perfect adhesion along the common interface between the matrix and the ribbons. We derive effective energy functionals involving additional degrees of freedom implying nonlocal effects associated with thin boundary layer phenomena and additional integral terms, including macroscopic fields of extension, flexion and torsion.
Effect of low frequency ultrasound thawing method on the quality characteristics of Peru squid (Dosidicus gigas)
Authors: Li Xiu-Xia , Sun Pan , Jia Jing-Ze , Cai Lu-Yun , Li Jian-Rong , Lv Yan-Fang
Published: November 2018

The effects of different thawing methods (air thawing, water soak thawing, refrigeration thawing, low frequency ultrasound thawing at 160, 240, 320 and 400 W) on thawing time, thawing loss, cooking loss, water-holding capacity and texture of frozen squid were investigated. The results showed that thawing loss and thawing time were reduced significantly ( p < 0.05) by ultrasound thawing compared with the water soak thawing and air thawing, but the cooking loss had no significant difference ( p > 0.05). Results of the ultrasound thawing especially at 160 and 240 W on microstructure showed less destructive effect on muscle. The microstructure of the muscle was destroyed significantly after air thawing and water soak thawing compared with the ultrasound thawing, which showed that more fibre structure was broken and the gap between the muscle fibres was increased significantly. Low-field NMR results showed that the ability of immobile water shifting to free water after ultrasound thawing was lower than air thawing and water soak thawing, which was consistent with the results of thawing loss and cooking loss. Ultrasound thawing might be chosen as an alternative method to enhance the quality during thawing process.
Changes in periacetabular bone mineral density five years after resurfacing hip arthroplasty versus conventional total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Gerhardt Davey MJM , Smolders José MH , Roovers Elisabeth A , Rijnders Ton AJM , van Susante Job LC
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

We studied whether acetabular bone mineral density (BMD) is better preserved after resurfacing hip arthroplasty (RHA) versus small diameter metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods:

This randomised controlled trial included 82 patients. BMD was measured in 5 periprosthetic regions of interest (ROI) with dual-energy absorptiometry (DEXA) preoperatively, at 3 and 6 months, 1, 2, 3 and 5 years postoperative. 34 RHA and 26 THA had a complete 5 years follow-up. 1 RHA and 1 THA were revised due to pseudotumour formation, 2 THA were revised because of recurrent dislocations and 1 RHA for avascular necrosis.

Results:

Overall an initial decrease in BMD was observed for both implants, stabilising after 2 years. 5 years after RHA a BMD change of +1% in upper cranial, –4% ( p < 0.01) in cranial, –8% ( p < 0.01) in craniomedial, –7% ( p < 0.01) in medial and +4% in caudal ROI compared to baseline values was seen. 5 years after THA a BMD change of –3% ( p = 0.01), –13% ( p < 0.01), –21% ( p < 0.01), –11% ( p < 0.01) and –2% for each respective ROI. The observed BMD decrease in different regions was structurally favouring the RHA-cup, with significantly higher levels in the cranial and craniomedial ROI.

Conclusion:

Acetabular BMD is better preserved behind a rigid press-fit convex cup in RHA compared to a titanium threaded cup in conventional THA in the cranial and craniomedial ROI. Despite of a theoretical higher stress-shielding behind the stiff acetabular component in RHA, compared to the more elastic threaded titanium THA-cup, bone depletion behind the RHA component does not seem to be of major concern.

Registration:

EudraCT (2006-005610-12)
Effect of three-dimensional surface crack on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication performance of ellipsoid contact
Authors: Meng Fanming , Cui XueFang , Pu Cao
Published: November 2018

The elastohydrodynamic lubrication model for the ellipsoid contact considering three-dimensional crack effect is established and solved with an under-relaxation algorithm. In doing so, the fluid field is divided into the two computation domains, in which the usual Reynolds equation and its reduced form are solved for the film pressure with the crack effect. Meanwhile, a fast Fourier transform method is adopted to accelerate the deformation calculation. Simulation model is verified. Numerical results show that the crack can cause jumps for the film pressure and film thickness. Increasing the crack length along the rolling direction and the depth at the crack's open end, and decreasing the crack tip inclined angle all result in an increment in the maximum film pressure. In addition, increasing the crack width can make the film pressure within the crack shift towards both ends of the crack width. The crack close to the contact center brings out a large film pressure.
‘Adolescents are reckless’: Representations at stake in the construction of the relationship of trust in paediatric diabetology
Authors: Fonte David , Colson Sébastien , Côté José , Lagouanelle-Simeoni Marie-Claude , Apostolidis Thémis
Published: November 2018

A total of 10 focus groups were held with adolescents living with diabetes, their parents and health professionals in order to explore their needs in therapeutic education. The analysis showed that the relationship of trust was a central concern for a number of participants. Several adults were divided between a feeling of confidence inspired by the need to empower adolescents to cope with the chronic condition and a sense of distrust inspired by the idea of carelessness and irresponsibility thought to characterize adolescence. Adolescents, for their part, seemed relatively clear-sighted about how they can be perceived, and blamed adults for not trusting them. These findings emphasize the importance of considering the representations at stake in the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship in order to better understand the construction of the relational climate.
Taking One’s Responsibilities While Facing Adversity: A Balanced Analysis of Self-Help Books Reading
Authors: Marquis Nicolas
Published: November 2018

Self-help books are frequently criticised by social scientists, who often impute problematic effects (on individuals and on society) to their reading. This article intends to show why this phenomenon needs to be studied through a theory of practice which includes the reception process. Drawing upon 55 interviews and 297 letters from self-help book readers, the article questions the practice of self-help reading in its own relevance system to show how readers use these books with a need for effectiveness and conduct different inquiries about their credibility. I finally argue that this empirical stage not only does not impair a critical perspective on self-help books but might actually improve it.
Fully coupled multi-physics nonlinear analysis of structural space frames subjected to fire using the direct stiffness method
Authors: Prakash P. Ravi , Srivastava Gaurav
Published: November 2018

This article develops a fully coupled hydro-thermo-mechanical formulation based on the direct stiffness method for analysis of steel and reinforced concrete structural space frames. The superiority of the developed formulation lies in developing the direct stiffness method for fire analysis, which enables use of a much coarser spatial mesh when compared to existing fire analysis frameworks. Effects of temperature-dependent material properties, damage due to fire and pore pressure, nonlinear thermal gradients, and large deformations of structural members are directly integrated into the stability and bowing functions in the construction of the member stiffness matrix. This alleviates the need to perform element-level numerical quadrature, typically required by all existing finite element–based approaches. Full coupling between the pore pressure, thermal and mechanical solvers is considered through a two-level spatial discretization strategy with a staggered scheme for the numerical solution procedure. Five numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficacy of the developed formulation in analysis of steel and reinforced concrete structural members and frames.
An efficient Cholesky decomposition and applications for the simulation of large-scale random wind velocity fields
Authors: Li Yongle , Yu Chuanjin , Chen Xingyu , Xu Xinyu , Togbenou Koffi , Xiang Huoyue
Published: November 2018

A growing number of long-span bridges are under construction across straits or through valleys, where the wind characteristics are complex and inhomogeneous. The simulation of inhomogeneous random wind velocity fields on such long-span bridges with the spectral representation method will require significant computation resources due to the time-consuming issues associated with the Cholesky decomposition of the power spectrum density matrixes. In order to improve the efficiency of the decomposition, a novel and efficient formulation of the Cholesky decomposition, called “Band-Limited Cholesky decomposition,” is proposed and corresponding simulation schemes are suggested. The key idea is to convert the coherence matrixes into band matrixes whose decomposition requires less computational cost and storage. Subsequently, each decomposed coherence matrix is also a band matrix with high sparsity. As the zero-valued elements have no contribution to the simulation calculation, the proposed method is further expedited by limiting the calculation to the non-zero elements only. The proposed methods are data-driven ones, which can be applicable broadly for simulating many complicated large-scale random wind velocity fields, especially for the inhomogeneous ones. Through the data-driven strategies presented in the study, a numerical example involving inhomogeneous random wind velocity field simulation on a long-span bridge is performed. Compared to the traditional spectral representation method, the simulation results are with high accuracy and the entire simulation procedure is about 2.5 times faster by the proposed method for the simulation of one hundred wind velocity processes.
Old wine in new bottles? Regulating employee social media use through termination of employment law: A comparative analysis
Authors: O’Rourke Anne , Pyman Amanda , Teicher Julian , van Gramberg Bernadine
Published: November 2018

The explosion in social media usage and ease of access to instant communication provided by new technologies presents employers and business with benefits and problems. The literature on new technologies and the workplace is replete with employer unease about employee use of social media. The most prominent of these apprehensions concern what has been described as ‘cyberslacking’ or ‘cyberloafing’, and reductions in concentration and workplace productivity. The most common employer response to these concerns is often to engage in employee surveillance or termination of employment. This article examines the latter response. It explores whether new legal principles are emerging from Courts, Tribunals and Commissions adjudicating social media and email dismissal cases or whether they are merely reframing existing laws to adapt to novel workplace situations. We use a comparative approach to address this question, comparing legal cases in Australia, Britain and America. The purpose of this article is to assess if there are any commonalities emerging between the three jurisdictions, or by contrast, whether the law is being shaped by the unique features of each jurisdiction.
Facilitating Student Success: The Role of Open Educational Resources in Introductory Psychology Courses
Authors: Engler Jennifer N , Shedlosky-Shoemaker Randi
Published: November 2018

Open Educational Resources (OER) remove barriers to access instructional material. In light of their increased availability and use, a body of research has emerged to examine the impact of OER on college student success. While many of these studies have broadly examined efficacy across a variety of disciplines, the current study specifically examined the impact of the type of textbook (commercial vs. OER) on course content mastery within an undergraduate sample of introductory psychology students ( N = 63) while controlling for instructor and student differences. Results indicated that there were no significant differences in content mastery between those students in introductory psychology courses who were assigned a traditional commercial textbook and those who were assigned an OER textbook. These results support that OER can be equally effective as traditional, commercial textbooks and have implications for course material selections that help ensure access for all students.
Informing the Adaptation and Implementation of a Lifestyle Modification Program in Hispanics: A Qualitative Study Among Low-Income Hispanic Adults
Authors: Portacio Francia G. , Botero Pamela , St. George Sara M. , Stoutenberg Mark
Published: November 2018

Low-income Hispanics are a hard to reach population that face unique challenges in achieving behavior change. Understanding such challenges can inform the adaptation of lifestyle behavioral interventions and increase participant engagement. This descriptive qualitative study aimed to (1) inform lifestyle modification programs focused on improving the physical activity and healthy eating of low-income Hispanic adults and (2) explore potential gender differences necessary for consideration. Five gender-specific focus groups were conducted with Hispanic adults from a free community clinic ( n = 45, 64% women, 53.1 ± 10.1 years). Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using a general inductive approach. The qualitative software program Dedoose was used to perform a content analysis. Emergent themes included topics of interest, methods of increasing engagement in healthy behaviors, and the delivery of lifestyle modification programs. Men expressed greater interest in physical activity, while women desired to learn about healthy eating. Men described the importance of physician communication, while women focused on the role of social support as facilitators for participating in such programs. Both genders described education as key to behavior change and viewed text messaging as a valuable complement. Results from this study can inform the adaptation of lifestyle modification programs and increase the engagement of low-income Hispanic populations.
Lightweight framework of shell models utilizing local heat sensors
Authors: Wang Shengfa , Zhang Longfei , Li Baojun , Luo Zhongxuan
Published: November 2018

Lightweight is one of the most important research subjects in modern manufacturing. However, the research on lightweight of shell models is rare, and most limited in topological changes. This article proposes a local heat sensor–based lightweight framework of shell models that consists of model analysis, lightweight modeling and analysis, and three-dimensional printing and practical validation in an optimum iterative procedure. Specifically, first, both geometric features and empirical features are introduced to construct a frame structure. Second, a local diffusion–based heat sensor network is exploited to simulate the stress distribution due to two reasons: one is that they have the similar physical transmissibility and the other is that the heat diffusion is smooth, and it guarantees that the thickness variation is smooth and natural without restriction on the degrees of freedom. Then, a local iteration consists of heat simulation and stress analysis is utilized to further improve the efficiency. Finally, we use three-dimensional printer to manufacture testing models and apply them to practical verification and feedback. Our extensive experiments have exhibited many attractive properties, including the flexibility and freedom of the thickness variation, the effectiveness, and credibility of the lightweight.
Analysis of the stiffness sensitivity of a sorting arm mechanism based on a generalized modal mass distributing matrix
Authors: Jiang Xuchu , Li Bin , Liu Hongqi , He Songping , Mao Xinyong , Jiang Wei
Published: November 2018

A light-emitting diode chip sorting machine, which operates at high frequencies, exhibits reciprocating motion with multiple degrees of freedom and is characterized by quick starts and stops over a short range at a high frequency. The stiffness sensitivity of the chip sorter directly influences the positional accuracy of the sorting arm. However, existing experimental modal analysis methods cannot effectively identify the structural stiffness sensitivity under high-speed operation conditions. In this article, a method based on the modal mass distribution matrix is used to analyze the stiffness sensitivity of the sorting arm system. This method retrieves the modal parameters by modal analysis, after which the modal mass distribution matrix is obtained. The size of each element in the column of the matrix represents the energy distribution and stiffness sensitivity of the system under the mode. The stiffness-sensitive components of the sorting arm machine are accurately and quickly identified, thereby providing the guiding principle and basis for the dynamic optimization of the sorting arm mechanism.
Neural oscillator network–based biped control for self-adapting gait
Authors: Yang Woosung
Published: November 2018

Walking on floors with a varying slope needs more adaptive walking controller against the slope change, since that kind of walking becomes unstable easily without visual information. It may be difficult even for human beings to keep the walking stability without seeing the slope. This work presents a neural oscillator network to generate the patterns for periodic bipedal locomotion, which enable a humanoid robot to adapt to slope change of terrain. Motion trajectories of each limb (each hand and foot) are first defined in terms of periodic functions, the coefficients of which are the output parameters of neural oscillators. Those parameters are determined with the neural oscillator network in cooperation with sensory signals that detect the states of feet in contact with the terrain such that the motion trajectories are scaled for the walking stability. In addition, for the same reason, the neural oscillator controls the trajectories of the center of mass and the zero moment point of humanoid. Using the proposed method, the walking of the humanoid was performed on uneven and uncertain terrain. This application for the humanoid robot may draw some helpful hints on understanding human beings’ walking mechanism against the terrain with a varying slope.
Developing a risk-based composite neurologic outcome for a trial of hydroxyurea in young children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Casella James F , Adams Robert J , Brambilla Donald J , Strouse John J , Maier Pia , Dlugash Rachel , Avadhani Radhika , Vermillion Krista , Tonascia James , Voeks Jenifer H , Hanley Daniel F , Thompson Richard E , Lehmann Harold P
Published: November 2018

Background

Studies of interventions to prevent the many neurological complications of sickle cell disease must take into account multiple outcomes of variable severity, with limited sample size. The goals of the studies presented were to use investigator preferences across outcomes to determine an attitude-based weighting of relevant clinical outcomes and to establish a valid composite outcome for a clinical trial.

Methods

In Study 1, investigators were surveyed about their practice regarding hydroxyurea therapy and opinions about outcomes for the “Hydroxyurea to Prevent the Central Nervous System Complications of Sickle Cell Disease Trial” (HU Prevent), and their minimally acceptable relative risk reduction for the two outcome components, motor and neurocognitive deficits. In Study 2, HU Prevent investigators provided overall weights for these two components. In Study 3, they provided more granular rankings, ratings, and maximum number acceptable to harm. A weighted composite outcome, the Stroke Consequences Risk Score, was constructed that incorporates the major neurologic complications of sickle cell disease. The Stroke Consequences Risk Score represents the 3-year risk of suffering the adverse consequences of stroke. In Study 4, the results of the Optimizing Primary Stroke Prevention in Sickle Cell Anemia (STOP2) and Silent Infarct Transfusion Trials were reanalyzed in light of the composite outcome.

Results

In total, 22 to 27 investigators participated per study. In Study 1, across three samplings between 2009 and 2015, the average minimally acceptable relative risk reduction ranged from 0.36 to 0.50, at or below the target effect size of 0.50. In 2015, 21 (91%) reported that a placebo-controlled trial is reasonable; 23 (100%), that it is ethical; and 22 (96%), that they would change their practice, if the results of the trial were positive. In Studies 2 and 3, the weight elicited for a cognitive decline (of 10 IQ points) from the overall assessment was 0.67 (and for motor deficit, the complementary 0.33); from ranking, 0.6; from rating, 0.58; and from maximal number acceptable to harm, 0.5. Using data from two major clinical trials, Study 4 demonstrated the same conclusions as the original trials using the Stroke Consequences Risk Score, with smaller p-values for both reanalyses. An assessment of acceptability was performed as well.

Conclusion

This set of studies provides the rationale, justification, and validation for the use of a weighted composite outcome and confirms the need for the phase III HU Prevent study. Surveys of investigators in multi-center studies can provide the basis of clinically meaningful outcomes that foster the translation of study results into practice while increasing the efficiency of a study.
Unpalatable Dissent and the Political Distribution of Solidarity
Authors: Lamble Sarah
Published: November 2018

This article questions the conditions in which solidarity is given or withheld in response to expressions of dissent. Drawing on the August 2011 riots in England as an example, the article reflects on why some forms of dissent attract support whereas others do not. The author argues that “unpalatable” forms of dissent, particularly those enacted by groups already constructed as deviant or suspect, are often figured as least deserving of support, even though their actions may arise from the highest needs. The article then considers how these patterns can occur in response to more everyday articulations of dissent, such as those expressed by disenfranchised university students. The article suggests a rethinking of the politics of dissent and the distribution of solidarity in order to address broader patterns of power and dispossession.
Health literacy as a determinant, mediator and/or moderator of health: empirical models using the European Health Literacy Survey dataset
Authors: Pelikan Jürgen M. , Ganahl Kristin , Roethlin Florian
Published: November 2018

Background/Research Question:

In the health literacy (HL) discourse there is debate about the ways by which HL is impacting health. Three different, logically non-exclusive hypotheses are proposed: (a) HL as a specific, direct, social determinant of health; (b) HL as a mediator between other determinants and health; and (c) HL as a moderator of the effect of other determinants on health. Only few examples of empirically testing the mediator or moderator hypothesis exist. The data of the European Health Literacy Survey allow testing of the three hypotheses comparatively in parallel for functional and comprehensive HL.

Methods:

Data collection was based on multistage random samples of about 1000 European Union citizens aged 15 or older with Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing or Paper Assisted Personal Interviewing methodology in 2011 in eight Member States of the EU. Demographic and socio-economic indicators, a comprehensive (European Health Literacy Survey Q47) and a functional (Newest Vital Sign Test) health literacy measure and one self-assessed health variable were surveyed. Correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis and path analysis were performed.

Results:

Comprehensive HL (and to a much lesser degree functional HL) is a relevant predictor for self-assessed health. Also, comprehensive HL is only to a limited degree mediating the effects of other determinants on self-assessed health and only for age does HL partly moderate the effect on health. Explained variance and strength of effects vary considerably by national context.

Conclusions/Implications:

Comprehensive HL is a critical, direct determinant of health. Therefore comprehensive HL has a considerable potential for health promotion to improve population health and tackle the health gap. But comprehensive HL measurement should be standardised in every country to allow for designing adequate measures for the specific situation of the country and also for benchmarking. For better understanding of the causal structure of the impact of HL on health, longitudinal studies will be needed.
Time to Live: Christian Formation through the Christian Year
Authors: Erickson Matthew
Published: November 2018

This article examines the role of the Christian, or liturgical, year as one of the simplest yet most powerful ways of spiritually forming people, both individually and corporately, to become more like Jesus. Many Christians and churches are subtly shaped more by the time structures of the average work week or cultural holidays than the life of Christ or the church. The tendency to address individual spiritual formation focuses largely on cognitivist approaches to change or individual formative practices. However, the author explores several ways in which the Christian year offers a wholistic approach to life formation through the steady, time-bound patterns of the Christian year. Engaging both the conscious and unconscious self in cognitive practices and steady habits, both the individual Christian and local congregations are trained toward Christlikeness.
The Influence of Gender Relations on Women’s Involvement and Experience in Climate Change Adaptation Programs in Bangladesh
Authors: Tanjeela Mumita , Rutherford Shannon
Published: November 2018

The nexus between poverty and climate change is a major concern, especially in a country like Bangladesh where lack of resources is a significant problem in both rural and urban areas. Climate change affects a wide demographic of the population in Bangladesh, and among those affected, women are more vulnerable to climate change impacts, as is evident from the history of climate-induced disasters in the country. Climate change increases women’s socio-economic vulnerabilities by directly impacting their family’s food security, water consumption, and livelihood. Hence, their roles and contributions are critical in responding through adaptation. Nonetheless, in Bangladesh, challenges remain to incorporate women as distinct actors and active agents in climate adaptation programs considering the gender power dynamics that exist. In this context, this study focuses on women’s contributions as individuals or as a group and reveals their significant influence in climate change adaptation practices.
Personal Strivings to Understand Anxiety Disorders: Social Anxiety as an Exemplar
Authors: Goodman Fallon R. , Kashdan Todd B. , Stiksma Melissa C. , Blalock Dan V.
Published: November 2018

People with anxiety disorders tend to make decisions on the basis of avoiding threat rather than obtaining rewards. Despite a robust literature examining approach-avoidance motivation, less is known about goal pursuit. The present study examined the content, motives, consequences, and daily correlates of strivings among adults diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and healthy controls. Participants generated six strivings along with the motives and consequences of their pursuit. Compared with controls, people with social anxiety disorder were less strongly driven by autonomous motives and reported greater difficulty pursuing strivings. Coders analyzed strivings for the presence of 10 themes: achievement, affiliation, avoidance, emotion regulation, generativity, interpersonal, intimacy, power, self-presentation, and self-sufficiency. People with social anxiety disorder constructed more emotion regulation strivings than did controls, but they did not differ across other themes. This research illustrates how studying personality at different levels of analysis (traits, strivings) can yield novel information for understanding anxiety disorders.
The state, all at sea: Interoperability and the Global Network of Navies
Authors: Dittmer Jason
Published: November 2018

The sea has long been envisioned as antithetical to land, and therefore geography and the state. The Global Network of Navies is a Pentagon-led program that seeks to extend state power over the seas by cultivating naval interoperability. Interoperability has been a source of American military might since Second World War, but took on heightened importance after the Cold War. In this paper, I make three related arguments. First, I argue that the Global Network of Navies is an attempt to produce ocean space within a U.S.-led, but ultimately transnational, state assemblage. Second, I argue that this project relies on the materiality of the sea to affectively nudge forward transnational cooperation. Third, I argue that this reliance on the materiality of the sea is paradoxical, as the Global Network of Navies attempts (and ultimately fails) to dematerialize ocean space into abstract network ontology. To make these arguments, I first theorize interoperability through assemblage, highlighting how a transnational state assemblage emerges that works through, but is not reducible to, individual states. I then trace a genealogy of maritime space, showing how maritime space was assembled with U.S. naval technologies and strategies in the 19th and 20th centuries, culminating in the Global Network of Navies. Next, I examine the technical challenges of naval interoperability, focusing on C4ISR technologies. The sea’s materiality limits flows of data that have become synonymous with today’s warfighting. Many of the Pentagon’s potential partners lack the high-end technology required to be interoperable with the U.S. The C4ISR technology that is therefore distributed to partners is both technical and political; the U.S. remains central to data fusion and distribution. I then return to the sea itself, showing how the Global Network of Navies tries to dematerialize the sea but ultimately runs aground on the shoals of materiality. What remains is a smaller, fragmented spatiality that remains oriented around specific seas.
Reviewing the Use of Glutaraldehyde for High-level Disinfection by Sonographers
Authors: Pearlman Orianne
Published: November 2018

A review of recent literature has demonstrated that ultrasound transducers may harbor bacteria and viruses that could cause cross-contamination for patients. Reducing the risk of cross-contamination is achieved by high-level disinfection of ultrasound transducers. One of the main types of high-level disinfectants (HLD) used in performing sonography is glutaraldehyde (GA). While GA-based HLDs are cleared in abundance by the FDA and compatible with most transducers, GA has been reported to cause extensive adverse effects and has limited efficacy as a disinfectant. This literature review provides a current set of studies that discuss high-level disinfection of ultrasound transducers, GA use, exposure, and alternatives. This information could be used by practitioners to carefully consider how to effectively clean ultrasound transducers and supporting equipment. Additional guidance is provided on how to potentially minimize GA exposure and suggestions for protecting patients during their imaging examination.
Prognostic value of D-dimer and markers of coagulation for stratification of abdominal aortic aneurysm growth
Authors: Sundermann Alexandra C. , Saum Keith , Conrad Kelsey A. , Russell Hannah M. , Edwards Todd L. , Mani Kevin , Björck Martin , Wanhainen Anders , Owens A. Phillip
Published: November 2018

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with high morbidity and mortality and is an established cause of unbalanced hemostasis. A number of hemostatic biomarkers have been associated with AAA; however, the utility of hemostatic biomarkers in AAA diagnosis and prognosis is unclear. The aim of the present study was to characterize the potential prognostic value of D-dimer and markers of altered hemostasis in a large cohort of patients with AAAs characterized by either fast or slow aneurysm growth (frequency matched for baseline diameter) and subaneurysmal dilations. We measured plasma concentrations of thrombin-antithrombin (TAT) complex, platelet factor 4 (PF4), and D-dimer in 352 patients with either fast-growing AAAs (>2 mm/y), slow-growing AAAs (<2 mm/y), subaneurysmal aortic dilations, or nonaneurysmal aortas. Plasma D-dimer and TAT were significantly elevated in both AAA and subaneurysmal dilation patients compared with controls. Individuals with D-dimer levels ≥500 ng/mL had 3.09 times the odds of subaneurysms, 6.23 times the odds of slow-growing AAAs, and 7.19 times the odds of fast-growing AAAs than individuals with D-dimer level <500 ng/mL. However, no differences in D-dimer concentration were noted between fast- and slow-growing aneurysms. Plasma D-dimer and TAT were strong independent predictors of AAA growth rate with multivariate analysis revealing a 500-ng/mL increase in D-dimer or 1-µg/mL increase in TAT led to additional 0.21-mm and 0.24-mm changes in aortic diameter per year, respectively. Rising levels of plasma TAT, in addition to D-dimer, may predict disease progression and aneurysm growth in patients with AAA or subaneurysmal dilation.
The importance of adjusting for enterococcus species when assessing the burden of vancomycin resistance: a cohort study including over 1000 cases of enterococcal bloodstream infections
Authors: Kramer Tobias Siegfried , Remschmidt Cornelius , Werner Sven , Behnke Michael , Schwab Frank , Werner Guido , Gastmeier Petra , Leistner Rasmus
Published: November 2018

Background

Infections caused by vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are on the rise worldwide. Few studies have tried to estimate the mortality burden as well as the financial burden of those infections and found that VRE are associated with increased mortality and higher hospital costs. However, it is unclear whether these worse outcomes are attributable to vancomycin resistance only or whether the enterococcal species (Enterococcus faecium or Enterococcus faecalis) play an important role. We therefore aimed to determine the burden of enterococci infections attributable to vancomycin resistance and pathogen species (E. faecium and E. faecalis) in cases of bloodstream infection (BSI).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study on patients with BSI caused by Enterococcus faecium or Enterococcus faecalis between 2008 and 2015 in three tertiary care hospitals. Data was collected on true hospital costs (in €), length of stay (LOS), basic demographic parameters, and underlying diseases including the results of the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). We used univariate and multivariable regression analyses to compare risk factors for in-hospital mortality and length of stay (i) between vancomycin-susceptible E. faecium- (VSEm) and vancomycin-susceptible E. faecalis- (VSEf) cases and (ii) between vancomycin-susceptible E. faecium- (VSEm) and vancomycin-resistant E. faecium-cases (VREm). We calculated total hospital costs for VSEm, VSEf and VREm.

Results

Overall, we identified 1160 consecutive cases of BSI caused by enterococci: 596 (51.4%) cases of E. faecium BSI and 564 (48.6%) cases of E. faecalis BSI. 103 cases of E. faecium BSI (17.3%) and 1 case of E. faecalis BSI (0.2%) were infected by vancomycin-resistant isolates. Multivariable analyses revealed (i) that in addition to different underlying diseases E. faecium was an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality and prolonged hospital stay and (ii) that vancomycin-resistance did not further increase the risk for the described outcomes among E. faecium-isolates. However, the overall hospital costs were significantly higher in VREm-BSI cases as compared to VSEm- and VSEf-BSI cases (80,465€ vs. 51,365€ vs. 31,122€ p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our data indicates that in-hospital mortality and infection-attributed hospital stay in enterococci BSI might rather be influenced by Enterococcus species and underlying diseases than by vancomycin resistance. Therefore, future studies should consider adjusting for Enterococcus species in addition to vancomycin resistance in order to provide a conservative estimate for the burden of VRE infections.
Brazilian Curcuma longa L. attenuates comorbidities by modulating adipose tissue dysfunction in obese rats
Authors: Lo Angelo Thompson Colombo , Francisqueti Fabiane Valentini , Hasimoto Fabiana Kurokawa , Ferraz Ana Paula Costa Rodrigues , Minatel Igor Otávio , Garcia Jéssica Leite , dos Santos Klinsmann Carolo , Alves Pedro Henrique Rizzi , Lima Giuseppina Pace Pereira , Moreto Fernando , Ferron Artur Junio Togneri , Corrêa Camila Renata
Published: November 2018

Background

Adipose tissue dysfunction is a condition characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress able to lead metabolic disorders.Curcuma longaL. (Cl) is a rhizome commonly used in Indian culinary which presents anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect ofin natura Curcuma longaL. on adipose tissue dysfunction and comorbidities in obese rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats (8 weeks old,n = 16) received standard chow + fructose in drinking water (30%) ad libitum for 16 weeks. After this period, animals were randomly divided to receive placebo treatment (fructose,n = 8) orCurcuma longaL. treatment (fructose +Cl,n = 8) for more 8 weeks, totalizing 24 weeks of experiment.Curcuma longaL. was mixed in water and gave to the animals by gavage in a dose of 80 mg/kg of body weight. Body composition, systolic blood pressure, metabolic, hormonal, inflammatory, and oxidative stress analysis were performed in plasma and adipose tissue.

Results

Curcuma longaL. reduced adiposity index and adipocyte hypertrophy, improved insulin resistance and systolic blood pressure, and reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in adipose tissue.

Conclusion

Curcuma longaL.in naturais able to modulate adipose tissue dysfunction, avoiding the development of comorbidities. It can be considered a phytochemical treatment strategy against obesity-related chronic diseases.
Use of High-Dose Hydroxocobalamin for Septic Shock: A Case Report
Authors: Lin Yichun , Vu Trung Q.
Published: November 2018

In this case report, we describe 2 patients with septic shock requiring high-dose vasopressors for hemodynamic support despite aggressive fluid resuscitation. After the administration of high-dose hydroxocobalamin for presumed septic vasoplegic syndrome, both patients had an immediate response to hydroxocobalamin with a rapid and lasting improvement of blood pressure that significantly reduced the need for vasopressor support.
Knowledge of radiation legislation and radiation exposure in common radiological investigations among final year medical students, foundation doctors, specialist radiology registrars and radiographers at a UK university teaching hospital
Authors: Khan Muhammad Omar , Khan Muhammad Saddique , Janjua Osman , Ali Ahmed , Hussain Shahid
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Junior doctors routinely request radiological investigations for patients. Prior studies have noted that among this group there is a lack of knowledge on radiation legislation and radiation exposure in common radiological investigations. However, no studies have compared this against radiology trainees and radiographers. We compared knowledge of radiation legislation and radiation exposure in common radiological investigations among final year medical students (FYMS), foundation year doctors (FY1, FY2) against specialist radiology trainees (SRT) and radiographers (RG).

Methods:

A 12-question multiple choice questionnaire (MCQ) was distributed to FYMS, FY1, FY2, SRT and RG at a UK teaching hospital. Questions assessed knowledge of radiation legislation and radiation-dose estimates of common radiological investigations. Mean MCQ scores were compared using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-test to determine statistical significance (p-value < 0.05).

Results:

127 participants were included in the study. Mean scores (%) for FYMS (49.3%), FY1 (52.6%) and FY2 (51.1%) were significantly lower compared to SRT (64.4%) and RG (66.3%) (p-value < 0.05). Mean test scores between FYMS, FY1 and FY2 did not significantly differ (p-value > 0.05).

Conclusion:

FYMS, FY1 and FY2 knowledge of radiation legislation and radiation exposure in common radiological investigations was poor compared to SRT and RG. Patients require knowledge of radiation risk to provide informed consent as per IRMER regulations, thus we propose formal teaching on the subject matter to promote radiation safety culture among medical undergraduates and postgraduates.

Advances in knowledge:

First study to compare knowledge of radiation legislation and radiation exposure in common radiological investigations between medical students and junior doctors to radiology trainees and radiographers.
Εμπνευση και δημιουργία στη βυζαντινή αρχιτεκτονική
Authors: ΒΕΛΕΝΗΣ (Georgios VELENIS) Γεώργιος
Published: November 2018

Στο άρθρο εξετάζονται οι παράγοντες που καθόρισαν την εξελικτική πορεία της χριστιανικής ναοδομίας από τον 4ο αιώνα έως την ύστερη βυζαντινή περίοδο. Ανάμεσά τους περιλαμβάνεται και η ανάγκη έκφρασης της χριστιανικής ιδεολογίας σε επίπεδο αρχιτεκτονικής σύλληψης. Οι αρχιτέκτονες αντλώντας από περίκεντρα θολωτά κτήρια και ξυλόστεγες βασιλικές δημιουργούν δρομικές συνθέσεις με κυρίαρχο το στοιχείο του τρούλου. Στα χρόνια της Εικονομαχίας, επικρατούν οι σταυρικές συνθέσεις, οι οποίες καλλιεργούνται ποικιλότροπα στους μετέπειτα χρόνους. Μετά τα τέλη του 9ου αιώνα, καθοριστικό ρόλο στην εξέλιξη της ναοδομίας διαδραμάτισε ο μοναχισμός.
A resilient landscape: the land walls of Constantinople and their surroundings
Authors: RICCI Alessandra
Published: November 2018

The land walls of Constantinople, built in the early years of the 5th century, substantially reinforced the city’s defenses while contributing to the creation of the capital’s urban identity. This paper considers a rarely touched-upon subject, that of the usage of agricultural spaces within the land walls and their immediate vicinity. The presence of horticultural activities noted along present-day sections of the land walls represents the intangible memory of patterns of usage now traceable to the Late Antique period.
Some remarks on the sculpted decoration and the templon of the Katholikon of Hagia Moni in Areia, Nauplion
Authors: PINATSI Christina
Published: November 2018

Several fragments of architectural sculptures are preserved in the monastery of Hagia Moni in Areia, Nauplion. Some of them have particularly elaborate relief or champlevé decoration, pertaining to the 12th century. Among them are noted the fragments of three small piers and a cornice, attributed to the marble altarscreen of the church. Based on these, a reconstruction of the templon is attempted. Unfortunately the evidence is not complete, but the surviving fragments give a vivid image of the sculptural work that used to decorate this significant monument.
Νεότερα για τον ναό του Αϊ Στράτηγου (Ταξιάρχη) παρά την Καστανιά της Μεσσηνιακής Μάνης
Authors: ΚΑΠΠΑΣ (Michalis KAPPAS) Μιχάλης
Published: November 2018

Ο ναός του Άι Στράτηγου Καστάνιας είχε χαρακτηριστεί παλαιότερα ως σταυρεπίστεγος της Α1 παραλλαγής, ενώ γινόταν αποδεκτή η χρονολόγησή του εντός του 13ου αιώνα. Κατά τις πρόσφατες εργασίες αποκατάστασης, ωστόσο, αποκαλύφθηκαν νέα στοιχεία που υποδεικνύουν ότι ο ναός διέθετε αρχικά τρούλο. Κτητορική επιγραφή που εντοπίστηκε και καθαρίστηκε στη νότια στοά, αναχρονολογεί το μνημείο λίγο πριν το 1194, έτος εκτέλεσης των τοιχογραφιών, από τις οποίες εξαιρετικό ενδιαφέρον παρουσιάζει η παράσταση ανθρωπόμορφης αγίας Τριάδας. Ο εξεταζόμενος ναός συνιστά, ως εκ τούτου, ένα από τα αρχαιότερα παραδείγματα ανάλογων πειραματισμών στη βυζαντινή ναοδομία, που θα γνωρίσουν ευρύτερη διάδοση κατά την επόμενη εκατονταετία.