bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining Students’ Continuance Intention to Use Mobile Web 2.0 Learning and Their Perceived Learning: An Integrated Approach
Authors: Dalvi-Esfahani Mohammad , Wai Leong Lam , Ibrahim Othman , Nilashi Mehrbakhsh
Published: October 2018

In the literature, there is a scarcity of studies investigating the factors influencing the deployment of mobile Web 2.0 (MW2.0) as pedagogical tools in higher education. The purpose of this study is to investigate the adoption of mobile Web 2.0 learning (MW2.0L) by students and further to explore their perceived learning. Accordingly, a research framework was developed through the integration of technology-to-performance chain model, uses and gratifications theory, technology acceptance model, and theory of planned behavior. The partial least squares-structural equation modeling approach was taken to assess the model using 456 data collected from Malaysian public university students. The results of the analysis revealed that students’ intention to continue use of MW2.0L learning was determined by the factors such as mobility, social interaction, and information exchange as gratifications, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and task-technology fit. It was found that students’ MW2.0L perceived learning was significantly explained by their behavioral intention. Implications of the study both for literature and practice are further discussed.
Using Multimedia Instruction and Performance Feedback to Improve Preservice Teachers’ Vocabulary Instruction
Authors: Peeples Katherine N. , Hirsch Shanna Eisner , Gardner Stephanie J. , Keeley Randa G. , Sherrow Breanna L. , McKenzie Jennifer M. , Randall Kristina N. , Romig John Elwood , Kennedy Michael J.
Published: October 2018

High-quality, effective vocabulary instruction is essential for supporting all students’ academic success, and it is particularly important for students with disabilities. Teacher preparation programs are faced with the challenge of not only training preservice teachers to provide effective vocabulary instruction across grades and content areas, but also to prepare them to teach students with disabilities. This randomized control trial included 200 preservice teachers. We tested the effects that a combination of multimedia instruction and performance feedback on evidence-based practices for effective vocabulary instruction had on participants’ knowledge and application of those practices. Compared with participants who received traditional lecture and text-based instruction and subjective feedback, we found that the group that received multimedia instruction and performance feedback implemented more of the practices, more frequently and for a longer duration. Implications for research and teacher preparation are discussed.
Predicting Work Volition Among Undergraduate Students in the United States and Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Francis , Ngo Hang-yue , Leung Angel
Published: October 2018

In this study, we examined the relationships among personal resources (i.e., psychological capital, perceived employability, and career resources), constraints, and work volition of university students. Two undergraduate samples from the United States and Hong Kong were collected. In both samples, results showed that personal resources were positively associated with work volition, whereas constraints were negatively related to it. However, moderated regression analysis with the two samples exerted only limited support on the moderating effect of personal resources in mitigating the effect of constraints on work volition. Limitations and implications were also discussed.
Isolation, Not Loneliness or Cynical Hostility, Predicts Cognitive Decline in Older Americans
Authors: Griffin Sarah C. , Mezuk Briana , Williams Allison Baylor , Perrin Paul B. , Rybarczyk Bruce D.
Published: October 2018

Objective: To jointly examine isolation, loneliness, and cynical hostility as risk factors for cognitive decline in older adults. Method: Data came from the 2006 to 2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal study of U.S. older adults (age ⩾ 65 years, n = 6,654). Measures included frequency of contact with social network (objective isolation), the Hughes Loneliness Scale (loneliness), a modified version of the Cook–Medley Hostility Inventory (cynical hostility), and a modified version of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (cognitive function). Multilevel modeling (random slope + intercept) was used to examine the association between these factors and trajectories of cognitive function. Results and Discussion: After controlling for demographic characteristics, self-reported health, and functional limitations, loneliness (β = −.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [−0.56, −0.11), and cynical hostility (β = −.14, 95% CI = [−0.24, −0.04) correlated with lower cognitive function, but none predicted change in cognitive function. Objective social isolation was associated with lower cognitive function (β = −.27, 95% CI = [−0.41, −0.12]) and steeper decline in cognitive function (β = −.09, 95% CI = [−0.16, −0.01]).
Giving Back Is Receiving: The Role of Generativity in Successful Aging Among HIV-Positive Older Adults
Authors: Emlet Charles A. , Harris Lesley
Published: October 2018

Objectives: Successful aging has been identified as an important emphasis for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Little is known about how this population conceptualizes aging successfully and how this relates to generativity. This qualitative study examined the importance of generativity among 30 HIV-positive older adults to determine the role of generativity in successful aging. Method: Participants aged 50+ years were recruited in Ontario, Canada, through acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) service organizations, clinics, and community agencies. Qualitative interviews were analyzed to explore strategies participants employed to engage in successful aging within their own personal context. Results: Participants saw themselves as pioneers and mentors, helping others to navigate the landscape of aging with HIV. Four themes were identified through consensus including (a) reciprocity, (b) mentoring, (c) pioneerism, and (d) connecting through volunteerism. Discussion: Interventions that promote intergenerational connections, community involvement, and generative acts within the HIV community can facilitate successful aging among older adults living with HIV/AIDS.
“Burkini” bans in Belgian municipal swimming pools: Banning as a default option
Authors: Brems Eva , Chaib Saïla Ouald , Vanhees Katrijn
Published: October 2018

Muslim women’s religious dress is a matter that exercises many minds and the recent public debate on the so-called “burkini” (preferably phrased as “body covering swimwear”) is the umpteenth variation on the theme. Following the French commotion on the presence of “burkini” wearers at the coast in 2016, the “burkini” became the subject of public debate in Belgium. Whereas the “burkini” did not cause much public unrest in the context of the Belgian coast, the majority of local swimming pools in the Flemish region of Belgium do have dress codes banning the “burkini”, even before the (inter)national media outcry. This article discusses the prevalence of these restrictive dress regulations and scrutinizes the rationalisation behind local “burkini” bans in municipal swimming pools. These findings are complemented with the perspectives and experiences of “burkini” wearers, who challenged the “burkini” bans before the court. Finally, this article analyses the “burkini” bans in light of European human rights standards.
Influence of AA7075 crystallographic orientation on micro-grinding force
Authors: Zhao Man , Ji Xia , Liang Steven Y
Published: October 2018

In micro-grinding, the depth of cut is smaller than the grain size of workpiece material. Since the micro-grinding wheel cuts through the grain boundaries, the crystallographic effects become more significant in the micro-grinding than that in macro-machining. To quantify the effect of crystallographic orientation on the flow stress of polycrystalline material, the Taylor factor model is developed by examining the number and type of the activated slip systems. Then, the shear force model is developed based on the flow stress model considering the effect of crystallographic orientation. Moreover, the plowing force is predicted based on the Vickers hardness of workpiece material and the plowing friction coefficient. A comprehensive model is then proposed to predict micro-grinding force by consolidating the mechanical, thermal, crystallographic, and size effect. Micro-grinding experiments adopting Taguchi’s method were conducted to verify the model, and the results indicated that the predictions agree well with the experimental data. Besides, single-factorial experiments were conducted with the only variable being Taylor factor and the results suggest that the Taylor factor model is capable of capturing the effect of crystallographic orientation on grinding force.
A numerical method for calculating the misalignments of planetary gears
Authors: Zhou Chi , Wang Qi , Gui Liangjin , Fan Zijie
Published: October 2018

Because misalignments derived from the deflections of transmission systems have significant effects on the load capacity of planetary gears, these misalignments should be accurately considered in the analysis of planetary gears. Here, we develop a new approach for misalignment calculations of cylindrical planetary gears. A nonlinear model of a planetary gear transmission system is built based on the finite element method and nonlinear bearing theory for misalignment calculations that can precisely simulate the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of a planetary gear system. The nonlinear static equation of a planetary system is solved efficiently using the Newton–Raphson method. Gear misalignments of all the planet branches are determined by the results of the system static analysis. The reliability and advantages of the proposed method are discussed via case studies. The effects of including the variation of the planet positions and the nonlinearity of the bearing stiffness on the planetary gear misalignments under different load conditions are studied. The misalignments can be reliably determined using the proposed method for calculating the load capacity of planetary gears.
Muay Thai: Women, fighting, femininity
Authors: Davies Sharyn Graham , Deckert Antje
Published: October 2018

Women fighting challenges conventional notions of femininity in many ways. A bleeding nose, bruised eyes and swollen lips embody perhaps masculine success but, for many, constitute failed femininity. Yet women fighters, who are attracting unprecedented media attention, are in novel ways forcing a re-imagination of femininity. This article draws on 17 in-depth semi-structured interviews with professional and amateur female Muay Thai fighters based in Thailand to explore the subversion and reinvention, and also reinforcement, of feminine norms. Theoretically, we advance the debate around fighting and femininity by developing the concept of bio-borders to investigate the presentation, protection and penetration of bodily femininity. We conclude that women fighters inspire a femininity recognising physical and emotional strength alongside conventional feminine norms of beauty, relationality and compliance.
Internationalization, Student Engagement, and Global Graduates: A Comparative Study of Vietnamese and Australian Students’ Experience
Authors: Phan Huong Le Thanh , Tran Ly Thi , Blackmore Jill
Published: October 2018

The article provides comparative insights into Vietnamese and Australian students’ experience of internationalization of the curriculum. We explore how local arrangements for curriculum internationalization in Australia and Vietnam enable and/or constrain students’ individual agency in taking control of their knowledge and skills to become skilful and culturally sensitive professionals and citizens. The article is part of a 4-year empirical study that includes 15 semistructured interviews with academics and nine focus groups with 40 students in both countries. We use practice architecture theory to interpret whether and to what extent students can be the key actors in internationalizing the curriculum and the factors that nurture or restrict their participation in this process. The article provides important comparative perspectives on students’ experience of participating in curriculum internationalization in Vietnam as a developing country and an international education importer and Australia as a developed country and an education export provider.
Evaluation of a Pharmacy-to-Dose Pneumococcal Vaccination Protocol at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Baucom Ashlee , Brizendine Christina , Fugit Ann , Dennis Christopher
Published: October 2018

Background: In February 2016, a pharmacy-to-dose (PTD) pneumococcal vaccination protocol was implemented to aid in the appropriate selection of pneumococcal vaccines. Objective: The primary objective was to compare the rate of appropriate vaccine ordering with the PTD protocol. Secondary objectives were to assess vaccine administration rate and determine factors preventing patients from receiving the vaccine after appropriate selection. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study of adult patients admitted to an inpatient service. Eligible patients were 19 years of age or older and had either a PTD pneumococcal vaccination order placed or an alert triggered indicating that the patient was a candidate for a vaccination. Patients were excluded if they had contraindications to receiving either pneumococcal vaccine. The Fisher exact test was used to evaluate the primary objective, and descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the secondary objectives. Results: A total of 327 patients were included in the analysis: 167 in the preprotocol cohort and 160 in the postprotocol cohort. The correct vaccine ordering rates were found to be 26.9% (45/167) and 83.1% (133/160) in the preprotocol and postprotocol cohorts, respectively ( P < 0.001). In the postprotocol cohort, 17.5% (28/160) of patients did not have a vaccine administered. Reasons for vaccine administration failure were identified as patient refusal, patient expired during admission, vaccine not dispensed by pharmacy, and vaccine dispensed by pharmacy but returned. Conclusions: The PTD pneumococcal vaccination protocol significantly improved correct vaccine ordering rates.
High-Probability Request Sequence: An Effective, Efficient Low-Intensity Strategy to Support Student Success
Authors: Bross Leslie Ann , Common Eric Alan , Oakes Wendy Peia , Lane Kathleen Lynne , Menzies Holly M. , Ennis Robin Parks
Published: October 2018

High-probability request sequence (HPRS) is a low-intensity strategy designed to increase student compliance by creating behavioral momentum. Momentum is established by providing three to five requests that a noncompliant student is most likely to do followed quickly by a less preferred request. Herein, we describe a step-by-step process for using HPRS in schools. Throughout, we offer lessons from practitioners who have used HPRS with students, including those at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders.
Modeling of lactic acid fermentation of soy formulation with Lactobacillus plantarum HM1
Authors: Matejčeková Zuzana , Dujmić Elena , Liptáková Denisa , Valík Ľubomír
Published: October 2018

Lactic acid bacteria alone or with special adjunct probiotic strains are inevitable for the preparation of various specific functional foods. Moreover, because of their growth and metabolism, the final products are preserved for a certain time. Thus, growth dynamics of the lactic acid bacteria of the Fresco DVS 1010 culture ( Lactococcus lactis spp. lactis, Lactococcus lactis spp. cremoris, Streptococcus salivarius spp. thermophilus) during liquid-state fermentation of soya mashes and pH values within the process were analyzed in this study. Although milk is the most typical growth medium for the lactic acid bacteria, presumable viable counts of Fresco culture reached levels 109 CFU ml−1 after 8 h, representing 2–3 log increase in comparison to initial state (specific growth rates ranged from 1.06 to 1.64 h−1). After 21 days of storage period, the pH levels in the products were reduced to 4.50–4.70, representing a decrease of about 1.5–1.7 units. All prepared soybean products contained detectable amounts of raffinose-series oligosaccharides (0.25–0.68 g per 100 g) that were reduced in average by about 30.5% during period of 21 days.
Home Support Workers and Older Men: The Implications of Masculinity for Later Life Care
Authors: Barken Rachel , Sims-Gould Joanie
Published: October 2018

With increased longevity, growing numbers of older men are using home support services. The provision of care by (mostly female) workers to male clients raises questions regarding the negotiation of gender and age relations in the private sphere of the home. In this article, we explore how home care providers confront and respond to masculinity when supporting older men. Our analysis is based on semistructured interviews with twenty-four home care providers in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. We present four themes that demonstrate how masculinity is constructed and modified at the intersections of age, gender, and care: women and men are same, care and sexuality, taking control and accepting help, and health and well-being. While old age and the need for care present challenges to some aspects of masculinity, we find that many older men continue to engage in practices consistent with hegemonic versions of masculinity developed over the life course. Based on these findings, we make recommendations to equip workers with the resources needed to safely and effectively care for older men.
Rapid Central Vein Assessment (RaCeVA): A systematic, standardized approach for ultrasound assessment before central venous catheterization
Authors: Spencer Timothy R , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: October 2018

Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the practice of safer vascular access, for both venous and arterial cannulation. The ability to visualize underlying structures of the chest, neck, and upper/lower extremities provides for greater success, speed, and safety with all vascular access procedures. Ultrasound not only yields superior procedural advantages but also provides a platform to perform a thorough assessment of the vascular structures to evaluate vessel health, viability, size, and patency, including the location of other important and best avoided anatomical structures—prior to performing any procedures. Such assessment is best performed using a systematic and standardized approach, as the Rapid Central Vein Assessment, described in this study.
A Visually Interpretable, Dictionary-Based Approach to Imaging-Genomic Modeling, With Low-Grade Glioma as a Case Study
Authors: Kuthuru Srikanth , Deaderick William , Bai Harrison , Su Chang , Vu Tiep , Monga Vishal , Rao Arvind
Published: October 2018

Radiomics is a rapidly growing field in which sophisticated imaging features are extracted from radiology images to predict clinical outcomes/responses, genetic alterations, and other outcomes relevant to a patient’s prognosis or response to therapy. This approach can effectively capture intratumor phenotypic heterogeneity by interrogating the “larger” image field, which is not possible with traditional biopsy procedures that interrogate specific subregions alone. Most models in radiomics derive numerous imaging features (eg, texture, shape, size) from a radiology data set and then learn complex nonlinear hypotheses to solve a given prediction task. This presents the challenge of visual interpretability of radiomic features necessary for effective adoption of radiomic models into the clinical decision-making process. To this end, we employed a dictionary learning approach to derive visually interpretable imaging features relevant to genetic alterations in low-grade gliomas. This model can identify regions of a medical image that potentially influence the prediction process. Using a publicly available data set of magnetic resonance imaging images from patients diagnosed with low-grade gliomas, we demonstrated that the dictionary-based model performs well in predicting 2 biomarkers of interest (1p/19q codeletion and IDH1 mutation). Furthermore, the visual regions (atoms) associated with these dictionaries show association with key molecular pathways implicated in gliomagenesis. Our results show that dictionary learning is a promising approach to obtain insights into the diagnostic process and to potentially aid radiologists in selecting physiologically relevant biopsy locations.
Forecasting hotel demand uncertainty using time series Bayesian VAR models
Authors: Ampountolas Apostolos
Published: October 2018

Demand uncertainty is a fundamental characteristic of the hospitality industry. Hotel room inventory is fixed, and devising an accurate daily demand measurement is a key operational challenge. In practice, it is difficult to predict the industry stability and capture demand uncertainty, so the industry relies on demand estimates. This process of estimation affects revenue maximization, as it is sensitive to incremental costs. In this article, we implemented vector autoregressive (VAR) models and compared them to the Bayesian VAR to examine the accuracy of predicting demand. We evaluated the results using a new measure of forecasting accuracy, the mean arctangent absolute percentage error (MAAPE). The results generated from the forecasts confirm the significant improvement in forecasting performance that can be obtained using the Bayesian model. It is noteworthy that the VAR performs the best for the lower horizons. The results also suggest that MAAPE outperforms other existing accuracy measures, in terms of error rates.
What happened to critical pedagogy in physical education? An analysis of key critical work in the field
Authors: Fitzpatrick Katie
Published: October 2018

Despite a long history of critical scholarship in physical education (PE), current research continues to show that PE is an exclusionary and marginalising space for many students. Hawkins suggests that philosophical pragmatism, cultural materialism, and health concerns are driving the field, to the extent that the foundations of PE are in jeopardy, and even in ‘crisis’. These trends are at odds with poststructuralist approaches to the field, and with (continued) calls for critical pedagogical practice. In this article, I reflect on these issues and consider four different approaches to critical pedagogy in the work of: Richard Tinning; Laura Azzarito; my own work with a teacher called Dan; and Kim Oliver and David Kirk. Drawing on this scholarship, I argue that critical practice is needed now more than ever, and I offer some thoughts about the future of this work.
Imagining new materials: Design as puzzle-solving
Authors: Lebedinsky Viviana
Published: October 2018

How important is the imagination in the design and creation of new and innovative materials, and how can it be developed through formative processes? What happens when the real world becomes distinct from our imagination of it and what are the implications of such a rupture? These questions are considered with reference to a case study in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology, which is examined with a focus on social relations, and formative processes in particular, emphasizing how these relations contribute to the creation–design of new materials. The author also examines the notion of imagination, focusing on its importance in the design of nanomaterials, which she conceptualizes as analogous to puzzle-solving. Two further examples enable us to reflect on different approaches through which the imagination might be understood and how the above questions can contribute to a rethinking of the hylomorphic and textility of making models.
The revision and transfer effects of direct and indirect comprehensive corrective feedback on ESL students’ writing
Authors: Karim Khaled , Nassaji Hossein
Published: October 2018

This study investigated the short-term and delayed effects of comprehensive written corrective feedback (WCF) on L2 learners’ revision accuracy and new pieces of writing (i.e., the transfer effect of feedback). Three types of feedback were compared: direct feedback and two types of indirect feedback that differed in their degree of explicitness (i.e., underlining only and underlining+metalinguistic cues). Fifty-three intermediate level learners of English as a second language (ESL) were divided randomly into four groups: One direct, two indirect, and a control group. Students produced three pieces of writing from different picture prompts and revised them over a three-week period. Each group also produced a new piece of writing two weeks later. The study included seven sessions: Writing 1, revision of Writing 1, Writing 2, revision of Writing 2, Writing 3, revision of Writing 3, and Writing 4 (delayed writing). The results showed that all the three feedback groups significantly outperformed the control group in revision tasks. Some short-term accuracy improvements were also found on new pieces of writing for direct and underlining+metalinguistic feedback, but the effects were largely non-significant.
Building resilient families: Developing family interventions for preventing adolescent depression and HIV in low resource settings
Authors: Kuo Caroline , LoVette Ashleigh , Stein Dan J. , Cluver Lucie D. , Brown Larry K. , Atujuna Millicent , Gladstone Tracy R.G. , Martin Jacqueline , Beardslee William
Published: October 2018

Depression contributes significantly to the global burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. In South Africa, individuals may be at elevated risk for depression due to HIV and AIDS, violence, and poverty. For adolescents, resilience-focused prevention strategies have the potential to reduce onset of depression. Involving families in promoting adolescent mental health is developmentally appropriate, but few existing interventions take a family approach to prevention of adolescent depression. We conducted a qualitative investigation from 2013–2015 to inform the development of a family intervention to prevent adolescent depression in South Africa among families infected or at risk for HIV. Using focus groups with adolescents and parents (eight groups, n = 57), and interviews (n = 25) with clinicians, researchers, and others providing mental health and related services, we identified context-specific factors related to risk for family depression, and explored family interactions around mental health more broadly as well as depression specifically. Findings indicate that HIV and poverty are important risk factors for depression. Future interventions must address linguistic complexities in describing and discussing depression, and engage with the social interpretations and meanings placed upon depression in the South African context, including bewitchment and deviations from prescribed social roles. Participants identified family meetings as a context-appropriate prevention strategy. Family meetings offer opportunities to practice family problem solving, involve other family members in communal parenting during periods of parental depression, and serve as forums for building Xhosa-specific interpretations of resilience. This study will guide the development of Our Family Our Future, a resilience-focused family intervention to prevent adolescent depression (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT02432352).
Twitter’s influence on news judgment: An experiment among journalists
Authors: McGregor Shannon C , Molyneux Logan
Published: October 2018

The literature suggests that journalists give a substantial amount of attention to Twitter and use the platform widely, but the impact of that use on news judgment has not been assessed. We hypothesize that Twitter affects journalists’ news judgment, impacting coverage decisions. To test this, we conducted an online survey experiment on working US journalists ( N = 212). We find that journalists who use Twitter less in their work discount news they see on the platform, potentially causing them to dismiss information that many of their colleagues identify as newsworthy. Our results also indicate that the routinization of Twitter into news production affects news judgment – for journalists who incorporate Twitter into their reporting routines, and those with fewer years of experience, Twitter has become so normalized that tweets were deemed equally newsworthy as headlines appearing to be from the AP wire. This may have negative implications, such as pack journalism, but we also see positives, as Twitter may conduit a wider array of voices into the mainstream news agenda. Twitter plays a key role in journalistic practices including, as we demonstrate here, influencing journalists’ news judgment. Twitter’s growing centrality in the news process warrants greater scrutiny from journalists and scholars.
Stock option pay versus restricted stock: A comparative analysis of their impact on managerial risk-taking and performance extremeness
Authors: Hou Wanrong , Lovett Steve , Rasheed Abdul
Published: October 2018

This study investigates how two stock-based incentives affect the risk-taking behavior of CEOs. We compare stock options and restricted stock in terms of their impact on the magnitude of investments and performance extremeness. We test our hypotheses using data for 23 years starting from 1993 for a large sample of S&P 1500 firms. Our results indicate that both stock option and restricted stock pay increase the magnitude of investments undertaken by CEOs, but that stock options have a much stronger effect. Also, stock option pay increases the likelihood of both big gains and big losses, but restricted stock reduces the likelihood of big losses. Finally, we find that as CEO tenure increases, the effects of stock-based compensation tend to diminish. Therefore, stock-based incentives appear to be a useful solution to the agency problem for short-tenured CEOs, but much less so for long-tenured CEOs.
Measuring crime through victimization: Some methodological lessons from the ICVS
Authors: Ródenas Carmen , Doval Antonio
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study is to demonstrate that there are design errors in the International Crime Victims Survey (ICVS) that lead to biases in the estimates of victimization rates. This will be verified, firstly, by comparing the crime rate derived from the ICVS microdata with that based on the reference population and, secondly, examining the consequences of two ICVS methodological decisions: the use of individual weights and the re-weighting procedure in accordance with household size. These sample design failures, which generate distorted crime rankings, call for the need to make corrections both in the subsequent waves of the ICVS and in the final design of a future European survey.
The Effectiveness of Reality Orientation Therapy in the Treatment of Parkinson Disease Dementia
Authors: Camargo Carlos Henrique Ferreira , Ladeira Marcelo Araújo , Serpa Rafael Arthur , Jobbins Vinicius Aguiar , Filho Carlos Rory Pucci , Welling Leonardo Christiaan , Teive Hélio Afonso Ghizoni
Published: October 2018

Patients with Parkinson disease dementia (PDD) have deficits resulting mainly from frontostriatal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of reality orientation therapy (ROT) combined with drug therapy (acetylcholinesterase inhibitors) in PDD treatment and compare it with that of drug therapy alone. Patients (n = 12) with a diagnosis of PDD were divided into 2 groups: group A—drug therapy and ROT; group B—drug therapy alone. Reality orientation therapy was applied weekly for 6 months, and patients were assessed during the same period. Significant improvements in frontostriatal deficits were observed in the group that received the combined therapy, as shown mainly by the scores in verbal fluency in the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) battery ( P = .02) and in attention in Scales for outcomes of Parkinson’s Disease–Cognition ( P = .021) and Clock Drawing Test ( P = .037). Patients who received only medication had worse results in constructional praxis recall in the CERAD battery ( P = .037). Our results indicate that ROT may help in the treatment of frontostriatal cognitive deficits and can potentially be used to complement drug therapy.
Predicting Juvenile Reentry Success: Developing a Global Risk Score and Risk Classification Levels Using the Residential Positive Achievement Change Tool
Authors: Baglivio Michael T. , Wolff Kevin T.
Published: October 2018

Recent decades have seen the proliferation of risk assessment implementation and, subsequently, validation studies. Most assessments are used at the front end, at arrest or postdisposition for juvenile offenders. The current study develops an overall risk score and risk classification levels from a tool developed specifically for use with youth within residential placement in efforts to predict reentry success. A diverse, 4-year statewide sample of serious juvenile offenders ( N = 15,078) is examined. The total risk score and classification schematic development are outlined, predictive validity assessed, and the ability of the classification to partition youth into meaningful subgroups of overall risk to reoffend analyzed. Results show predictive validity on par with prominent juvenile tools, which is noteworthy given the sample exclusivity: serious offenders in residential placement. Further, the tool classifies youth into five distinct groups with meaningful dispersion across groups with differing recidivism base rates. Implications for juvenile reentry are discussed.
Self-organized cyber physical power system blockchain architecture and protocol
Authors: Yang Ting , Zhai Feng , Liu Jialin , Wang Meng , Pen Haibo
Published: October 2018

The state parameters of electrical equipment and power system control parameters are the key data to realize the precise control and cooperative autonomy of a cyber physical power system. The trustworthiness of the data is the primary condition to guarantee the electric power system’s safe and reliable operation. In the traditional centralized data acquisition and management architecture, the security and trustworthiness completely depend on the central main server. A small mistake in the main server will result in data loss, which is irreversible and fatal. Blockchain technique combines the dispersed data with mutual backup and retrieval mechanism, which guarantees that the data cannot be tampered with and forged privately. Based on the blockchain technology, this article proposes a novel data trustworthy acquisition model with high credibility, applied to a self-organized cyber physical power system. In order to overcome the long time-consuming process of building traditional blockchains, a new on-demand data transmission routing algorithm with M/M/1/k queuing model is proposed in this article. Different scales of IEEE standard bus systems are employed as experimental examples to evaluate the algorithm’s performance. The results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively shorten the time consumption of blockchain construction and realize the data trustworthiness of cyber physical power system.
Cross-correlation-based algorithm for absolute stress evaluation in steel members using the longitudinal critically refracted wave
Authors: Li Zuohua , He Jingbo , Teng Jun , Wang Ying
Published: October 2018

The absolute stress in the in-service steel members is a critical indicator employed for the evaluation of structural performance. In the field of structural health monitoring, the stress is usually monitored by the stress monitoring system. However, the monitored stress is the relative value, rather than the absolute value. The longitudinal critically refracted wave has shown potential for use in absolute stress measurement. The accurate measurement of the longitudinal critically refracted wave time-of-flight is the core issue with this method. In this study, a cross-correlation-based algorithm is presented for stress evaluation using the longitudinal critically refracted wave. Specifically, a cross-correlation theoretical formula is derived and a five-step framework is proposed for the longitudinal critically refracted wave time-of-flight measurement. Four steel members are employed to investigate the parametric calibration using the longitudinal critically refracted wave to measure the stress. On this basis, the proposed cross-correlation-based algorithm is used to evaluate the stress of a steel member. The results indicate that the cross-correlation-based algorithm can measure the longitudinal critically refracted wave time-of-flight without filtering the noise signal, and the stress measurement results are better than those of the traditional peak value method. The proposed method provides a potential way to measure the absolute stress in practical engineering applications.
Path optimization algorithm and its robustness for bevel tip flexible needle
Authors: Zhang Yong-De , Shi Kai-Ming , Zhao Yan-Jiang , Yang Ji-Chao , Liu Jia
Published: October 2018

Bevel tip flexible needle is a novel application in minimally invasive surgery, for it can avoid obstacles by performing a curved trajectory to reach the target. In clinical surgeries, path optimization is a basis for a robot-assisted surgery, and robustness is a crucial issue for an algorithm. However, to the best of our knowledge, none of the researches has an intensive study on the robustness of an algorithm for a bevel tip needle’s path optimization. In this article, a path optimization algorithm for a bevel tip flexible needle is proposed based on a mathematical calculation method by establishing an optimization objective function, and the robustness of the algorithm is analyzed regarding to each weighting coefficient of the objective function. Simulation results show that on the one hand, the algorithm can obtain the optimal path effectively in the presence of obstacles; and on the other hand, the optimization function has little sensitivity to any of the weighting coefficients, verifying strong robustness of the algorithm. Experiments for three typical paths are performed, and the accuracy is within 2 mm which fulfills the surgical requirements. The experimental results not only prove the feasibility of the paths obtained by the algorithm but also verify the validity of the proposed path optimization algorithm.
Distributed adaptive model-free cooperative control for a network of generic unknown nonlinear systems
Authors: Safaei Ali , Mahyuddin Muhammad Nasiruddin
Published: October 2018

In this article, a distributed model-free consensus control is proposed for a network of nonlinear agents with unknown nonlinear dynamics, unknown process disturbances, and white noise measurement disturbances. Here, the purpose of the control protocol is to first synchronize the states of all follower agents in the network to a leader and then track a reference trajectory in the state space. The leader has at least one information connection with one of the follower agents in the network. The design procedure includes adaptive laws for estimating the unknown linear and nonlinear terms of each agent’s dynamics. The salient feature of the proposed control scheme is that each agent’s estimation is a model-free adaptive law, that is, the need for regressor or linear-in-parameter basis is alleviated. In addition, without requiring direct connection to the leader, the leader’s control input can still be reconstructed by virtue of a robust observer which can be defined in a distributed manner in the network. The entire design procedure is analyzed successfully for the stability using Lyapunov stability theorem. In addition, it is shown that the proposed distributed controller includes an optimal term. Besides, a modified Kalman filter is added to eliminate the measurement noise. Finally, the simulation results on three networks of unknown nonlinear systems are presented. Moreover, a comparative study is presented to evaluate the proposed algorithm against a model-based cooperative control algorithm.
Kinematic analysis of the X4 translational–rotational parallel robot
Authors: Staicu Stefan , Shao Zhufeng , Zhang Zhaokun , Tang Xiaoqiang , Wang Liping
Published: October 2018

High-speed pick-and-place parallel manipulators have attracted considerable academic and industrial attention because of their numerous commercial applications. The X4 parallel robot was recently presented at Tsinghua University. This robot is a four-degree-of-freedom spatial parallel manipulator that consists of high-speed closed kinematic chains. Each of its limbs comprises an active pendulum and a passive parallelogram, which are connected to the end effector with other revolute joints. Kinematic issues of the X4 parallel robot, such as degree of freedom analysis, inverse kinematics, and singularity locus, are investigated in this study. Recursive matrix relations of kinematics are established, and expressions that determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of each robot element are developed. Finally, kinematic simulations of actuators and passive joints are conducted. The analysis and modeling methods illustrated in this study can be further applied to the kinematics research of other parallel mechanisms.
The politics of apology: The ‘Tzuyu Scandal’ and transnational dynamics of K-pop
Authors: Ahn Ji-Hyun , Lin Tien-wen
Published: October 2018

This article examines how transnational cultural flows such as K-pop create intensified regional dynamics and conflicts by looking at a specific case called the ‘Tzuyu incident’. A young Taiwanese member, Chou Tzuyu, of the K-pop girl band TWICE apologized for waving a Republic of China’s flag on a Korean TV show in an apology video released on JYP Entertainment’s official YouTube channel. The video soon went viral among K-pop fans around the globe, especially in Taiwan, China, and Korea, creating a transnational discursive space that vividly captures the complex dynamics among various actors such as the local media, the transnational entertainment corporation, fans, as well as the artists. Through a close inspection of the apology video made by Tzuyu and JYP entertainment, as well as the responses generated in China and Taiwan, this article examines the complicated power dynamics of a variety of players involved in the production and consumption of K-pop. The article argues that geopolitics in the Tzuyu incident is manifested in gendered narratives, showing the uneven power relations between the entertainment company, consumers, and the artist as well as that between China and Taiwan.
Primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Löw Sarah , Han Catherine H. , Batchelor Tracy T.
Published: October 2018

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare and aggressive extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), confined to the brain, eyes, spinal cord or leptomeninges without systemic involvement. Overall prognosis, diagnosis and management of PCNSL differ from other types of NHL. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment are vital to improving clinical outcomes. PCNSL is responsive to radiation therapy, however whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) inadequately controls the disease when used alone and its delayed neurotoxicity causes neurocognitive impairment, especially in elderly patients. High-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX)-based induction chemotherapy with or without autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) or reduced-dose WBRT leads to durable disease control and less neurotoxicity. The optimal treatment has yet to be defined, however HD-MTX-based induction chemotherapy is considered standard for newly diagnosed PCNSL. Ongoing randomized trials address the role of rituximab, and of consolidative treatment using ASCT or reduced-dose WBRT. Despite high tumor response rates to initial treatment, many patients have relapsing disease with very poor prognosis. The optimal treatment for refractory or relapsed PCNSL is poorly defined. The choice of salvage treatment depends on age, previous treatment and response, performance status and comorbidities at the time of relapse. Novel therapeutics targeting underlying tumor biology include small molecule inhibitors of B-cell receptor, cereblon, and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling, and immunotherapy programmed cell death 1 receptor inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T cells.
Prolonged-release fampridine in multiple sclerosis: clinical data and real-world experience. Report of an expert meeting
Authors: Albrecht Philipp , Bjørnå Ingrid Kristine , Brassat David , Farrell Rachel , Feys Peter , Hobart Jeremy , Hupperts Raymond , Linnebank Michael , Magdič Jožef , Oreja-Guevara Celia , Pozzilli Carlo , Salgado Antonio Vasco , Ziemssen Tjalf
Published: October 2018

Prolonged-release (PR) fampridine is the only approved medication to improve walking in multiple sclerosis (MS), having been shown to produce a clinically meaningful improvement in walking ability in the subset of MS patients with Expanded Disability Status Scale 4–7. Recent responder subgroup analyses in the phase III ENHANCE study show a large effect size in terms of an increase of 20.58 points on the patient-reported 12-item MS Walking Scale in the 43% of patients classified as responders to PR-fampridine, corresponding to a standardized response mean of 1.68. Use of PR-fampridine in clinical practice varies across Europe, depending partly on whether it is reimbursed. A group of European MS experts met in June 2017 to discuss their experience with using PR-fampridine, including their views on the patient population for treatment, assessment of treatment response, re-testing and re-treatment, and stopping criteria. This article summarizes the experts’ opinions on how PR-fampridine can be used in real-world clinical practice to optimize the benefits to people with MS with impaired walking ability.
Salvage surgery for recurrent or persistent tumour after radical (chemo)radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Dickhoff Chris , Otten Rene H. J. , Heymans Martijn W. , Dahele Max
Published: October 2018

Background:

Once recurrent or persistent locoregional tumour after radical chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is identified, few curative-intent treatment options are available. Selected patients might benefit from surgical salvage. We performed a systematic review of the available literature for this emerging treatment option.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Publications about persistent or (locoregional) recurrent disease after radical/definitive CRT for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer were identified.

Results:

Eight full papers were found, representing 158 patients. All were retrospective series and data were heterogeneous: definition and indication for salvage surgery varied and the median time from radiotherapy to surgery was 4.1–33 months. Complete resection (R0) was achieved in 85–100%, with vital tumour in 61–100%. A large number of pneumonectomies were performed, and additional structures were often resected. Where reported, 90-day mortality was 0–11.4%. Reported survival metrics varied but included median overall survival 9–46 months and 5-year survival 20–75%.

Conclusion:

There are limited, low-level, heterogeneous data in support of salvage surgery after radical CRT. Based on this, perioperative mortality appears acceptable and long-term survival is possible in (highly) selected patients. In suitable patients (fit, no distant metastases, tumour appears completely resectable and preferably with confirmed viable tumour), this treatment option should be discussed in an experienced multidisciplinary lung cancer team.