bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suicides in Young People in Ontario Following the Release of “13 Reasons Why”
Authors: Sinyor Mark , Williams Marissa , Tran Ulrich S. , Schaffer Ayal , Kurdyak Paul , Pirkis Jane , Niederkrotenthaler Thomas
Published: August 2019

Objective:

“13 Reasons Why,” a Netflix series, included a controversial depiction of suicide that has raised fears about possible contagion. Studies of youth suicide in the United States found an increase on the order of 10% following release of the show, but this has not been replicated in other countries. This study aims to begin to address that gap by examining the relationship between the show’s release and youth suicide in Canada’s most populous province.

Methods:

Suicides in young people (under the age of 30) in the province of Ontario following the show’s release on March 31, 2017, were the outcome of interest. Time-series analyses were performed using data from January 2013 to March 2017 to predict expected deaths from April to December 2017 with a simple seasonal model (stationary R 2 = 0.732, Ljung-Box Q = 15.1, df = 16, P = 0.52, Bayesian information criterion = 3.09) providing the best fit/used for the primary analysis.

Results:

Modeling predicted 224 suicides; however, 264 were observed corresponding to 40 more deaths or an 18% increase. In the primary analysis, monthly suicides exceeded the 95% confidence limit for 3 of the 9 months (May, July, and October).

Conclusion:

The statistical strength of the findings here is limited by small numbers; however, the results are in line with what has been observed in the United States and what would be expected if contagion were occurring. Further research in other locations is needed to increase confidence that the associations found here are causal.
Christian Leader Development: An Outcomes Framework
Authors: Krispin Keith R.
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this paper is to propose a composite framework for the intended outcomes of Christian leader development based on an analysis of scholarly literature on the topic, both from Christian and secular perspectives. Leader development, focusing on the individual to be developed, is a subset of the broader concept of leadership development, which also includes a more collective effort to facilitate the development of leadership capacity in groups and organizations. A proposed framework for Christian leader development outcomes will be presented, organized around five broad categories: Christian formation, personal formation, relational skills, intellectual skills, and management skills. The proposed Christian leader development framework can serve as a foundation for further research, the development of assessment instruments, and as a guide for development efforts.
Support for Breastfeeding Employees: Assessing Statewide Worksite Lactation Support Recognition Initiatives in the United States
Authors: Reat Amanda , Matthews Krystin J. , Carver Alma E. , Perez Cristell A. , Stagg Julie , Byrd-Williams Courtney E.
Published: August 2019

Background

Although the reasons for discontinued breastfeeding are multifactorial, an unsupportive work environment is consistently reported as a barrier to continued breastfeeding. In the United States, several state breastfeeding advocates have taken a distinctive approach to promote worksite lactation support by developing statewide recognition initiatives aimed at incentivizing employers to support breastfeeding employees by offering public recognition for the worksites’ efforts.

Research aim

To identify and describe statewide worksite lactation support recognition initiatives in the United States.

Methods

Between May 2016 and June 2017, semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with breastfeeding experts in each U.S. state ( N = 60 participants) for this cross-sectional study. Experts in states with a recognition initiative were asked about the background, structure, and requirements of the initiative.

Results

Twenty-six states had a current initiative, and some had requirements for providing a private space ( n = 19; 73%) and time ( n = 18; 69%) for employees to express human milk, as well as a written worksite lactation support policy ( n = 10; 38%).

Conclusions

This was the first study in which researchers systematically identified ongoing worksite lactation support recognition initiatives in the United States. The results of this work also served to highlight both the similarities and the variety between initiatives. Future researchers should aim to determine the components of an initiative that increase employer support and, in turn, breastfeeding rates.
A new hybrid electromagnetic actuator for a modified skyhook control strategy with energy reduction
Authors: Ding Renkai , Wang Ruochen , Meng Xiangpeng , Chen Long
Published: August 2019

This paper puts forward a modified skyhook control strategy for the electromagnetic suspension to improve the dynamic performance of the vehicle body and coordinate the wheel vibration simultaneously. The influence of control parameters (skyhook damping coefficient and passive damping coefficient) on the vehicle dynamic performances is analyzed, and the optimal values are determined. In addition, a new type of hybrid electromagnetic actuator which integrates a linear motor and a hydraulic damper is proposed to guarantee the reliability of electromagnetic suspension, and implement the modified skyhook control strategy. The structure parameters of the linear motor are optimized when the hydraulic damper is taken as a design basis, and the prototype is produced. Since the hybrid structure exactly matches the “hybrid damping” of the modified skyhook control strategy, the linear motor simply imitates the skyhook damping, which reduces the power demand compared with the electromagnetic suspension only with a linear motor. Then, the double loop control system for the hybrid electromagnetic actuator is designed. The external loop with a combined filter is utilized to obtain the body absolute velocity for the desired skyhook damping force, and the internal loop controls the linear motor to track the desired force with current hysteresis control. Finally, a comparative bench test is conducted, and the test results verify the effectiveness and control effect of hybrid electromagnetic actuator.
Towards a Theory of Schooling for Good Life in Postcolonial Societies
Authors: Maniar Vikas
Published: August 2019

Schools often aim at creating opportunities for good life and at promoting a good society. Liberal theorization on schooling is premised on a functioning liberal democracy with a capitalist economy. However, postcolonial societies are characterized by poverty and inequality, cultural diversity, and an ongoing project of state and nation building. This challenges some of the foundational assumptions of liberal conceptions of schooling aimed at promoting good life and good society in postcolonial societies. Realization of good life through schools is shaped both by shaping of ‘consciousness, identities, and desires’ [Bernstein (2000, Pedagogy, symbolic control, and identity: Theory, research, critique, Lanhan, MD: Rowman & Littlefield)] and through imparting knowledge and skills that help realize these desires in particular contexts. These schooling practices have different influences on opportunities for good life in short, medium, and long terms in these societies. A conceptual model of schooling that addresses these complexities is key to understanding the processes that influence the opportunities for a pursuit of good life through schooling in postcolonial societies. Such a model could draw upon the existing theories of liberal schooling but would have to adapt them to respond to the contexts of postcolonial societies.
Impact of Employee Demography, Family Responsibility and Perceived Family Support on Workplace Resilience
Authors: Bose Sujata , Pal Durba
Published: August 2019

Resilience at workplace has been identified as an essential attribute of employees which enables them to cope with challenges associated with the changing nature of modern businesses. Among the work and non-work factors that add up to these challenges for employees, family responsibility features as a very crucial factor that also plays a significant role in an employee’s career-related choices and outcomes. This study examines the impact of family responsibilities and perceived family support on an employee’s workplace resilience, probing further into their interaction effect. It also examines the effect of three demographic variables, namely employee’s age, gender and marital status on workplace resilience. Data were collected from more than 200 professionals from one of the major metropolises in India. The results show that the employee’s age has a significant main effect on workplace resilience. Multiple regression with interaction effect reveals that while family responsibility and perceived family support have a significant main effect, their interaction effect is insignificant.
Debt Financing, Agency Cost and Firm Performance: Evidence from India
Authors: Pandey Krishna Dayal , Sahu Tarak Nath
Published: August 2019

This empirical investigation attempts to enquire into the relationship among debt financing, agency cost and performance of Indian manufacturing firms. The study tries to document the impact of debt financing on firm performance in two different phases of panel data estimations. In the first phase, the study enquires the effect of debt on firms’ profitability measured by ‘return on equity’. The second phase tries to empirically explain the reason behind such impact by introducing agency cost. Considering the manufacturing firms traded in the BSE 200 Index from 2009–2016, the study documents a significant and negative effect of debt on firm performance. The magnitude of debt is also found to be positively affecting the agency cost measured by ‘general and administrative expenses’. So the negative effect of debt on firm performance is reinforced and justified as debt is also found to elevate the agency costs for the firms.
A Review of Theoretical Perspectives on CSR Among Family Enterprises
Authors: Chalkasra Lolita Shaila P. Safaee , Rivera John Paolo R. , Basuil Dynah Avigail T.
Published: August 2019

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices vary across international, regional and national contexts. It depends on variations in regulatory frameworks and global institutionalization, which views enterprises in a positive light when they adhere to global standards of social responsibility. Enterprises are not only seen as economic agents but also social actors with respective social responsibilities. We review theoretical perspectives on CSR among family enterprises and imply the type of CSR that a family enterprise may pursue depending on the different orientations that prescribe behaviour and motivation, which is dependent on organizational structure and size.
Experiences and Needs of Perimenopausal Women With Climacteric Symptoms in Singapore: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ong Diana Sher-Pin , Chua Mei Tuan , Shorey Shefaly
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Women in the perimenopause stage may face climacteric symptoms where physical and mental challenges are experienced. The purpose of this study was to increase the understanding of the experiences and needs of perimenopausal women with climacteric symptoms in Singapore. Method: This is a descriptive qualitative study. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 20 perimenopausal women with climacteric symptoms from a tertiary public hospital in Singapore. Semistructured face-to-face interviews and thematic analysis were used for data collection and analysis, respectively. Results: Participants lacked knowledge resulting in misconceptions of the condition. Experiencing climacteric symptoms led to mixed feelings. The availability of support varied in different sources and forms. Participants seek for more information, understanding, compassion, and empathy from family members and health care professionals. Discussion: Health care professionals should provide adequate support to cater to the diverse experiences and needs of multiracial perimenopausal women with climacteric symptoms. Future research should include the perspectives of health care professionals and family members.
Victimization, Crime Propensity, and Deviance: A Multinational Test of General Strain Theory
Authors: Teijón-Alcalá Marco , Birkbeck Christopher
Published: August 2019

General Strain Theory (GST) identifies victimization as one of the strains most strongly related to crime which, like other sources of strain, is moderated by individual and social factors. Recently, Agnew extended the theorization of coping strategies by proposing that the effects of strain on deviance are conditioned by individual and social factors in combination, rather than singly, which he labeled crime propensity. Tests of the propensity hypothesis have so far yielded mixed results, highlighting the value of additional studies. Whereas previous tests have focused on single countries, either in North America or Asia, we test the propensity hypothesis using data on adolescents in 25 countries collected through the International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD3; n = 57,760). A series of ordinary least squares (OLS) regressions show that the relationship between victimization and delinquency/substance use is conditioned by the effects of individuals’ crime propensity, thereby supporting the recent extension to GST.
Utilization of Informal Food Support Among Low-Income Households: Application of Andersen’s Service Use Model
Authors: Wang Kaipeng , Chu Yoosun , Lombe Margaret
Published: August 2019

Households on public assistance often turn to informal food support, such as food pantries, home delivery food programs, and soup kitchens, to cushion their consumption needs. Despite its important role in addressing food insecurity among low-income households, research examining determinants of informal food support use remains scarce. Guided by Andersen’s health service use model, this study aims to identify the predisposing, enabling, and need factors of informal food support use among low-income households. Results indicated that predisposing factors of informal food support use include education, age, and race. Enabling factors include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipiency, employment status, and household income. Food security status is a significant need factor of informal food support use. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Transverse shear stress within surface layer and its effects
Authors: Yan Ge , Huang Zaixing
Published: August 2019

When the transverse shear stress within a surface layer is taken into account, what happens in the deformation of micro- or nanoscale solids? The relevant problems are investigated by analyzing the deformation of a micro- or nanosized solid ellipsoid. The results show that both the stress and the deformation of a micro- or nanosized ellipsoid increase after the transverse shear stress within the surface layer is introduced, and that the maximal stress always occurs at both ends of the long axis of the ellipsoid. Unlike the prediction given by the Gurtin–Murdoch model, the calculation coming from the model of this paper predicts that the micro- or nanosized ellipsoid subjected to hydrostatic pressure contracts radially in the middle section and expands radially on both sides of the middle section. This difference provides an experimental standard to verify two models.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Small for Gestational Age and Low Birth Weight Births and Associations With Land Use and Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Nielsen Charlene C , Amrhein Carl G , Shah Prakesh S , Aziz Khalid , Osornio-Vargas Alvaro R
Published: August 2019

In addition to small for gestational age (SGA) and low birth weight at term (LBWT), critically ill cases of SGA/LBWT are significant events from outcomes and economic perspectives that require further understanding of risk factors. We aimed to assess the spatiotemporal distribution of locations where there were consistently higher numbers of critically ill SGA/LBWT (hot spots) in comparison with all SGA/LBWT and all births. We focused on Edmonton (2008-2010) and Calgary (2006-2010), Alberta, and used a geographical information system to apply emerging hot spot analysis, as a new approach for understanding SGA, LBWT, and the critically ill counterparts (ciSGA or ciLBWT). We also compared the resulting aggregated categorical patterns with proportions of land use and socioeconomic status (SES) using Spearman correlation and logistic regression. There was an overall increasing trend in all space-time clusters. Whole period emerging hot spot patterns among births and SGA generally coincided, but SGA with ciSGA and LBWT with ciLBWT did not. Regression coefficients were highest for low SES with SGA and LBWT, but not with ciSGA and ciLBWT. Open areas and industrial land use were most associated with ciLBWT but not with ciSGA, SGA, or LBWT. Differences in the space-time hot spot patterns and the associations with ciSGA and ciLBWT indicate further need to research the interplay of maternal and environmental influences. We demonstrated the novel application of emerging hot spot analysis for small newborns and spatially related them to the surrounding environment.
Notes on How to Irritate a Group of Committed Artists: Politics of Emotions at the Ghetto Biennale in Port-au-Prince
Authors: Frohnapfel David
Published: August 2019

The Ghetto Biennale was founded in 2009 by British photographer, filmmaker, and curator Leah Gordon in collaboration with members of the Haitian artist group Atis Rezistans. The biennale is rooted in considerations around contemporary art as a place of klas privilege and social exclusion. The organizers took on the complicated task of bringing together artists from different socioeconomic strata in a short-time residency project in an informal neighborhood. Many of the visiting artists produce art that can be described as a socially engaged artistic praxis. By analyzing the Ghetto Biennale as a curated social situation that produces artistic poverty tourism, I discuss the varied hierarchical inter- klas relationships between the participating visiting and local Haitian artists. These relationships are often informed, I argue, by the politics of pity and a competitive sentiment of touristic shame that produces in return critical suspicion and a spiral of moral accusation within the visiting artistic milieu: Who collaborates most sincerely and decently with inhabitants of a neighborhood living in abject poverty? The visiting artists try to escape this spiral by self-censoring all potential self-interests in their praxes through a renunciation of authority and authorship and by declaratively presenting their projects as altruistic spaces of community empowerment that give a voice to “subaltern” artists. The members of Atis Rezistans in this narrative are seen to be constantly at risk of further marginalization by powerful actors from higher socioeconomic strata. But they actively deploy their own agency by negotiating these politics of pity for their own socioeconomic benefits.
Wind-induced response analysis of wind turbine tubular towers with consideration of rotating effect of blades
Authors: Huo Tao , Tong Lewei
Published: August 2019

This study discusses the wind-induced response of existing pitch-controlled 1.25 MW wind turbine structures, with a particular focus on the influence of the blade-rotation effect, cross-wind loads of the tubular tower and the wind direction, and compares numerical responses with the measured dynamic responses. An integrated finite-element model consisting of blades, a nacelle, a tower and a foundation is established. The aerodynamic loads exerted on the rotating blades and the aerodynamic loads acting on the tubular tower are then obtained. A wind-induced response calculation method of the wind turbine structures corresponding to different wind speeds and wind directions is established for performing a wind-induced response analysis. Finally, comparisons between the measured responses and the corresponding numerical response results are performed to verify the accuracy of the proposed wind-induced response calculation method. The results indicate that neglecting the cross-wind aerodynamic loads of large-scale wind turbine structures can lead to unsafe design. The wind direction has different influences on the along-wind and cross-wind dynamic responses. The statistical values of the measured dynamic responses are slightly greater than those of the numerical analysis results, but the magnitudes of the responses are the same. Therefore, the proposed wind-induced response calculation method for wind turbine structures is feasible and reasonable. It can be used to conduct the fatigue life prediction of wind turbine tubular towers in future research which is an important issue in the structural design of wind turbine tubular tower structures.
The characteristics of captopril challenge test–positive patients using various criteria
Authors: Kidoguchi Satoshi , Sugano Naoki , Hayashi-Ishikawa Naomi , Morisawa Norihiko , Tokudome Goro , Yokoo Takashi
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

The captopril challenge test (CCT) is the major confirmatory test for primary aldosteronism (PA), and frequently carried out because of its convenience. However, it presents false-negative results with a certain probability, and as there are many criteria for CCT, it is not concluded yet which criteria to use.

Materials and methods:

A total of 71 PA patients were evaluated. We compared CCT-positive and CCT-negative patients in the following three criteria: plasma aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR) >200 after the CCT (criterion 1); plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) >120 pg/ml after the CCT (criterion 2); and PAC suppression <30% of PAC before CCT (criterion 3).

Results:

The positive rate was 70.4%, 64.8% and 54.9% for criterion 1, criterion 2 and criterion 3, respectively. With criterion 1, the baseline plasma renin activity was lower, thus baseline ARR was higher in CCT-positive patients. With criterion 2, PAC was higher and estimated sodium intake and K were lower in CCT-positive patients. With criterion 3, K and PAC were lower in CCT-positive patients. Although it was not significant, in the patients with high sodium intake, the positive rate of criterion 1 was higher than that of the other criteria.

Conclusions:

ARR>200 is the valuable criterion for the diagnosis of PA.
The Presidential Party: A Theoretical Framework for Comparative Analysis
Authors: Passarelli Gianluca
Published: August 2019

Presidents of the Republic are crucial actors in both presidential and semi-presidential regimes. Despite the fact that these two systems represent the majority of all the world’s political systems, the focus on the head of state has only relatively recently been covered comparatively and systematically. Although big gaps still persist in relation to many aspects of ‘presidential power’, advances have been made, and the ‘presidential’ world has been analysed with more sophisticated tools and concepts. However, the ‘presidential party’ remains relatively understudied at both the theoretical and the empirical levels. The ‘party of the president’ is the key political actor that affects presidential activity during his or her mandate. The article aims to present a theoretical framework and a potential guideline for comparative studies. Starting from a critical review of Shugart and Carey’s seminal book, I propose a conceptualisation of the presidential party and the theoretical possible effects of it on the legislature, which might be useful for further empirical analysis.
Escaping the Prison of Mind: Meditation as Violence Prevention for the Incarcerated
Authors: Cooley Chelsea
Published: August 2019

People in prison are disproportionately affected by health problems, some of which lead to imprisonment and some of which are caused by imprisonment. Mental illness and substance use disorders fall into both of these categories, but they are not the only ailments affiliated with incarceration. Prior to their incarceration, many people in prison did not have safe housing or stable employment and job security, and institutional policies and/or budgetary concerns prevent many inmates from receiving adequate health care while in prison. Prison inmates in the United States are both victims and perpetrators of violence while incarcerated. In all cases, acts of violence have negative psychological consequences for the victim, including depression and shame. Mindfulness meditation training for prison inmates might be among the most effective of interventions, helping to prevent violence, improve quality of life, and reduce recidivism. Research and evaluation of data suggest that mindfulness-based nonviolence programs are transferable to other inmate populations, and the author recommends that both the private and public prison systems implement such programs nationwide, with the support of state and federal governments.
Putting a Band-Aid on a Broken Leg: Antiseizure Medications Are Inferior to Immune Therapies in Autoimmune Epilepsy
Authors: Gaspard Nicolas
Published: August 2019

[Box: see text]
Comparing CST Lesion Metrics as Biomarkers for Recovery of Motor and Proprioceptive Impairments After Stroke
Authors: Findlater Sonja E. , Hawe Rachel L. , Mazerolle Erin L. , Al Sultan Abdulaziz S. , Cassidy Jessica M. , Scott Stephen H. , Pike G. Bruce , Dukelow Sean P.
Published: August 2019

Background. Corticospinal tract (CST) damage is considered a biomarker for stroke recovery. Several methods have been used to define CST damage and examine its relationship to motor performance, but which method is most useful remains unclear. Proprioceptive impairment also affects stroke recovery and may be related to CST damage. Methods. Robotic assessment quantified upper-limb motor and proprioceptive performance at 2 weeks and 6 months poststroke (n = 149). Three previously-established CST lesion metrics were calculated using clinical neuroimaging. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging quantified CST microstructure in a subset of participants (n = 21). Statistical region of interest (sROI) analysis identified lesion locations associated with motor and proprioceptive deficits. Results. CST lesion metrics were moderately correlated with motor scores at 2 weeks and 6 months poststroke. CST fractional anisotropy (FA) was correlated with motor scores at 1 month poststroke, but not at 6 months. The FA ratio of the posterior limb of the internal capsule was not correlated with motor performance. CST lesion metrics were moderately correlated with proprioceptive scores at 2 weeks and 6 months poststroke. sROI analysis confirmed that CST damage was associated with motor and proprioceptive deficits and additionally found that putamen, internal capsule, and corticopontocerebellar tract lesions were associated with poor motor performance. Conclusions. Across all methods used to quantify CST damage, correlations with motor or proprioceptive performance were moderate at best. Future research is needed to identify complementary or alternative biomarkers to address the complexity and heterogeneity of stroke recovery.
Effectiveness of Lower-Extremity Functional Training (LIFT) in Young Children With Unilateral Spastic Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Surana Bhavini K. , Ferre Claudio L. , Dew Ashley P. , Brandao Marina , Gordon Andrew M. , Moreau Noelle G.
Published: August 2019

Background. Children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP) have strength, coordination, and balance deficits affecting gross motor skills, such as walking, running, and jumping. However, there is a paucity of evidence for effective treatments for lower-extremity (LE) function in children with USCP. Objective. To determine the effectiveness of LE intensive functional training (LIFT) compared with an attention control group receiving upper-extremity bimanual training (Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy [H-HABIT]). Methods. A total of 24 children with USCP were randomized to receive 90 hours of LIFT (5.8 [2.3] years) or an equivalent dosage of H-HABIT (5.1 [2.6] years) delivered 2 h/d, 5 d/wk for 9 weeks. Caregivers were trained to administer the intervention in the home setting. Progress and skill progression were monitored, and supervision was provided via weekly telerehabilitation. The primary outcome was the 1-minute walk test (1MWT). Secondary outcomes included self-selected and fast walking speeds, ABILOCO-kids, 30-s chair rise test, and single-leg stance. Results. LIFT showed greater improvement for the 1MWT ( P = .017) and ABILOCO-kids ( P = .008) compared with controls. The other secondary outcomes were not different between groups. Conclusions. The administration of LE intensive interventions in the home setting by caregivers was shown to be an effective and novel mode of delivery for improving gait capacity and performance. LIFT delivered in the home setting using telerehabilitation for monitoring resulted in improvements in ambulation distance and overall walking ability as compared to an intervention of equal intensity and duration that also controlled for the increased social interaction and attention between caregiver and child.
Probabilistic S-N fields based on statistical distributions applied to metallic and composite materials: State of the art
Authors: Barbosa Joelton Fonseca , Correia José AFO , Freire Júnior RCS , Zhu Shun-Peng , De Jesus Abílio MP
Published: August 2019

Fatigue life prediction of materials can be modeled by deterministic relations, via mean or median S-N curve approximation. However, in engineering design, it is essential to consider the influence of fatigue life scatter using deterministic-stochastic methods to construct reliable S-N curves and determine safe operation regions. However, there are differences between metals and composites that must be considered when proposing reliable S-N curves, such as distinct fracture mechanisms, distinct ultimate strengths under tension and compression loading, and different cumulative fatigue damage mechanisms including low-cycle fatigue. This study aims at conducting a review of the models used to construct probabilistic S-N fields ( P-S-N fields) and demonstrate the methodologies applied to fit the P-S-N fields that are best suited to estimate fatigue life of the selected materials. Results indicate that the probabilistic Stüssi and Sendeckyj models were the most suitable for composite materials, while, for metals, only the probabilistic Stüssi model presented a good fitting of the experimental data, for all fatigue regimes.7
Computational study on the effect of the shape of ducts on the performance of the submarine propeller
Authors: Hsieh Yi-Chern , Hai Doan Minh
Published: August 2019

With the tremendous growth of science and technology in the world, the silent submarine has been an interesting research topic for many years. What is of equal interest is how to produce a high-speed submarine that limits noise to minimise detection from the enemy. In this study, we investigated the combination of a propeller and a duct so that when a submarine is operated, it minimises as much as possible the noise without affecting the speed of the submarine. The goal of installing the duct outside the propeller is to reduce the noise and loss of thrust simultaneously. The purpose of this article is to investigate the variation of the magnitude of the noise and thrust that occurs when a submarine propeller is operated in six different types of ducts. The research method is to use the large eddy simulation method with the cavitation model and then to calculate the result using the finite volume method. The study found that Ducts 1 and 4 have a better noise reduction effect and better propulsion than the other four ducts. Among them, Duct 4 has the best noise reduction effect, and Duct 1 provides the maximum propulsion. In all of the computation examples herein, the cavitation phenomenon did not occur. In the future, we will continue to study the growth and decline of related physical quantities with various types of propellers and ducts.
Design and experiment of noncontact eddy current damping module in air bearing–guided linear motion system
Authors: Sung Eunho , Seo Chang-hoon , Song Hyunmin , Choi Byungjoo , Jeon Yongho , Choi Young-Man , Kim Kihyun , Lee Moon G
Published: August 2019

As a method for reducing the friction of high-precision system, air bearings have been widely used for various industrial applications. However, their small damping leads to poor in-position stability and therefore systems are susceptible to residual vibration and disturbance. In this study, a linear motion stage which is guided by air bearing for a noncontact eddy current damping module is proposed. The eddy current damping module consists of a Halbach array of permanent magnets and a fixed conductor plate. An eddy current is generated in the conductor in the direction opposing the change in the magnetic field when the magnets move, after which the resistivity in the conductor dissipates the kinetic energy of the moving part; therefore, the module has a damping effect without contact and system is shown good in-position stability. In order to specify the damping effect, the motion of the moving part was experimentally analyzed. The step response confirmed that the eddy current damping module can improve the performance of the positioning system: the settling time decreased by 36.8% and the resolution improved by 59.4%. These improvements verify that eddy current damping is a suitable method for application in precision industries.
An extended geometric process and its application in replacement policy
Authors: Gao Wenke
Published: August 2019

In this article, we develop an extended geometric process model with a recovery factor and propose a two-dimensional evaluation function for each maintenance effect. The developed model can describe the mean inter-failure time which can be improved by the first or several former repairs in some repairable systems. We also propose parameter estimation methods for the developed geometric process model and use some real failure datum to prove the model’s application. Focused on the developed geometric process model, two novel replacement policies and their optimizations are also presented in detail. Then, two real case studies are discussed to illustrate the modelling and optimizing process. Modelling results show that each recovery factor is related to the effect of each repair, and the developed geometric process model has a good-fitting property for some real cases. Optimization results display that the optimal ( N, m) replacement policy is applicable for some small-sized manufacturing systems, whereas the proposed ( N) replacement policy is suitable for some expensive systems.
Safety and effectiveness of multi-antenna microwave ablation-oriented combined therapy for large hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Tian-qi , Huang Zhi-mei , Shen Jing-xian , Chen Gui-qun , Shen Lu-jun , Ai Fei , Gu Yang-kui , Yao Wang , Zhang Yan-yang , Guo Rong-ping , Chen Min-shan , Huang Jin-hua
Published: August 2019

Background:

In patients with a large, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the primary recommendation is for transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) but used alone TACE is not typically curative. Combinations of TACE followed in a delayed fashion by single-applicator thermal ablation have also been suboptimal. As an alternative, we investigated the combination of TACE followed within 1–3 days by multi-antenna microwave ablation (MWA) in patients with a large HCC, to determine the feasibility, safety, local control, and short-term survival rates of this approach.

Methods:

We retrospectively studied 43 patients with a large HCC (mean diameter, 8.8 cm; SD, 2.8 cm) treated between July 2015 and July 2018, who underwent TACE followed within 3 days by multi-antenna simultaneous MWA. We measured the liver and renal function before and after treatment, recorded complications, used three-dimensional software and imaging to calculate tumor necrosis rates at 1 month after therapy, and calculated overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

Mean follow up was 12.2 (range, 3.5–35.6) months. All patients completed the treatment protocol. At 1 month after combined therapy, tumor necrosis was complete in 16 (37.2%), nearly complete in 19 (44.2%), and partial in 8 (18.6%) patients. The 1- and 2-year OS rates were 64.0% and 46.8%, respectively, with a median OS of 23.0 months; and the 1- and 2-year PFS rates were 19.9% and 4.4%, respectively, with a median PFS of 4.2 months. A transient change in liver function occurred 3 days after MWA but resolved within 1 month. Only two patients had major complications, which were treatable and resolved.

Conclusion:

Multi-antenna MWA-oriented combined therapy is feasible and well tolerated, and it results in satisfactory initial local control and short-term survival in some but not all patients with a large HCC.
Evidence for an attention bias toward disgust in contamination fear
Authors: Ólafsson Ragnar P. , Friðriksdóttir Aldís E. , Sveinsdóttir Sigrún Þ. , Kristjánsson Árni
Published: August 2019

Although attention biases are common in various anxiety disorders, there is no consensus yet regarding attentional bias in obsessive–compulsive disorder. We assessed attention bias toward images involving contamination and disgust using an emotional attentional blink paradigm in a sample of university students high (HCF) or low (LCF) in contamination fear. Neutral, general-threat-, contamination-, and disgust-related images (T1) were presented followed by a discrimination task (T2) 200, 500, or 800 ms later within a rapid serial visual presentation stream of 20 images. The HCF group was overall less accurate on the attentional blink task. Response accuracy differed by image type and lag in the two groups at the trend level and revealed a large drop in performance 200 ms following presentation of disgusting images in the HCF group. No such differences were observed at later lags in the task. There were increases in negative affect following the task for the HCF but not the LCF group, which were correlated with contamination fear scores. The results suggest that a disgust-related attention bias may be present at early stages of information processing in people with contamination fear.
Feasibility and safety of the antecubital venous access for right heart catheterization in patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Avriel Avital , Kassirer Michael , Shimony Avi , Tsaban Gal , Bar‐Shai Amir , Merkin Miri , Rosenstein Gabriel , Zahger Doron , Wiesen Jonathan , Cafri Carlos
Published: August 2019

Background

The diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension requires right heart catheterization (RHC) which is typically performed via proximal venous access (PVA). Antecubital venous access (AVA) is an alternative approach for RHC that can minimize complications, decrease procedural duration and allow for immediate patient recovery. A direct comparison between the two procedures in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is lacking.

Objectives

To determine the feasibility, safety, and adoption rates of AVA‐RHC as compared with ultrasound‐guided PVA in a subpopulation of patients with PH.

Methods

All patients who underwent RHC for evaluation of PH between December 2014 and March 2017 at a single large academic medical center were included in this study. Demographic, procedural and outcomes data were retrieved from the medical records.

Results

In total, 159 RHC were included (124 AVA, 35 PVA). The duration of RHC was significantly shorter in the AVA compared with PVA group (53 (IQR 38–70) vs. 80 (IQR 56–95) min, respectively, p < 0.001). 19% of AVA (24/124) procedures were switched to PVA. Failed attempts at AVA were more common in scleroderma (50% failure rate). Success rate of AVA increased from 81.2% to 93.3% from the first to last quartile. Fluoroscopy time was similar in both groups, the difference between the groups in the radiation dose are not statistically significant (54.5 (IQR 25–110) vs. 84.5 (IQR 30–134)).

Conclusion

AVA‐RHC is a feasible and safe alternative to PVA in patients with PH who are evaluated for pulmonary arterial hypertension diagnosis. Our experience and rapid adoption rate support the use of AVA as the preferred access site for RHC in uncomplicated PH patients.
Iptakalim ameliorates hypoxia‐impaired human endothelial colony‐forming cells proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis via Akt/eNOS pathways
Authors: He Mengyu , Cui Ting , Cai Qing , Wang Hong , Kong Hui , Xie Weiping
Published: August 2019

Hypoxia‐associated pulmonary hypertension is characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling. Pulmonary arterial endothelial cells dysfunction is considered as the initial event. As precursor of endothelial cells, endothelial colony‐forming cells (ECFCs) play significant roles in maintenance of endothelium integrity and restoration of normal endothelial cell function. Accumulating data have indicated that hypoxia leads to a decrease in the number and function of ECFCs with defective capacity of endothelial regeneration. Previous studies have reported that the activation of ATP‐sensitive potassium channels (KATP) shows therapeutic effects in pulmonary hypertension. However, there have been few reports focusing on the impact of KATP on ECFC function under hypoxic condition. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether the opening of KATP could regulate hypoxia‐induced ECFC dysfunction. Using ECFCs derived from adult peripheral blood, we observed that Iptakalim (Ipt), a novel KATP opener (KCO), significantly promoted ECFC function including cellular viability, proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis compared with ECFCs exposed to hypoxia. Glibenclamide (Gli), a nonselective KATP blocker, could eliminate the effects. The protective role of Ipt is attributed to an increased production of nitric oxide (NO), as well as an enhanced activation of angiogenic transduction pathways, containing Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Our observations demonstrated that KATP activation could improve ECFC function in hypoxia via Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathways, which may constitute increase ECFC therapeutic potential for hypoxia‐associated pulmonary hypertension treatment.
A case report of tardive subcutaneous emphysema in relation to iatrogenic pneumothorax
Authors: Ringvold Christine Helene Opedal , Møller Weinreich Ulla
Published: August 2019

Subcutaneous emphysema, the presence of air under the subcutaneous tissues, often arises in relation to pneumothorax, including iatrogenic pneumothorax. It can arise as a consequence of chest drain insertion and removal. This case report describes worsening of subcutaneous emphysema subsequent to chest drain removal, leading to tardive and life-threatening subcutaneous emphysema. There are few international guidelines describing chest drain removal and there are few reports describing tardive subcutaneous emphysema. These areas need further exploration using evidence-based research in order to develop a consensus on treatment options.
The American Cultural War and the Restructuring of Kentucky Politics
Authors: Hood James Larry
Published: August 2019

The study is an integration of the last six decades’ local, state, and national history concerning the correlation of border state Kentucky’s partisan politics with the events and themes of the country’s long cultural war. Beginning in the 1960s, the two national parties gradually became far more distinct from one another concerning cultural values. The Democratic Party supported results-oriented affirmative action, a woman’s right to choose, gay marriage, and the need for a powerful, active federal government to protect and encourage all the above. The Republican Party took none of these positions. This led to a new political configuration along rearranged racial, demographic, geographic, and party lines. Where once Kentucky’s Democratic Party had near total control of state offices and Republicans had won federal offices now and then, the new configuration had Republicans threatening to control both federal and state offices.
Blood Lead Levels of Children Using Traditional Indian Medicine and Cosmetics: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Keosaian Julia , Venkatesh Thuppil , D’Amico Salvatore , Gardiner Paula , Saper Robert
Published: August 2019

Background

Traditional Indian cosmetics and Ayurvedic medicines may contain lead. Previous studies have shown a relationship between eye cosmetic use (kohl) in children and elevated blood lead levels (BLLs) > 10 µg/dL. However, an association between Ayurvedic use and elevated BLLs in children is unknown and understudied.

Methods

We assessed the feasibility of collecting BLLs in children attending Ayurvedic outpatient settings in India. Our pilot study took place over 3 days in the summer of 2010 at a large public Ayurveda hospital and a small pediatric clinic in southern India. Using a trained interpreter, we administered a standardized questionnaire in Malayalam, assessing sociodemographics, Ayurvedic medicine use, kohl use, and other potential risk factors for lead exposure, to parents of pediatric outpatients. We also analyzed BLLs using a portable lead analyzer.

Results

The study enrolled 29 children (mean age, 3.8 years). The mean BLL was 6.7 µg/dL (SD = 3.5; range, 3.5–20.2). Seventy-two percent of the children used Ayurvedic medicine in the past 2 years and 55% reported kohl use. Mean BLL of Ayurvedic users and nonusers was 6.2 µg/dL and 8.5 µg/dL, respectively ( P = .08). Kohl users had a statistically significant higher BLL than nonusers (8.0 µg/dL vs 5.3 µg/dL, P = .03).

Conclusions

It is feasible to collect BLLs in pediatric Ayurvedic outpatient clinics in southern India. Collaborative relationships with community members and hospital staff were essential. Further research is needed to investigate Ayurveda and kohl use as risk factors for elevated lead burden among Indian children.
Endoscopic Versus Open Laminectomy for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: An International, Multi-Institutional Analysis of Outcomes and Adverse Events
Authors: Chiu Ryan G. , Patel Saavan , Zhu Amy , Aguilar Eddy , Mehta Ankit I.
Published: August 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study and systematic review.

Objectives:

Endoscopic decompression offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional, open laminectomy. However, comparison of these surgical techniques has been largely limited to small, single-center studies. In this study, we perform the first international, multicenter comparison of both with regard to their associated rates of mortality, complications, readmissions, and reoperations.

Methods:

The 2017 American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database, containing data from over 650 hospitals internationally, was queried to evaluate the effect of endoscopic guidance on adverse events. Operative time, length of stay, readmission and reoperation rates, as well as the incidence of peri- and postoperative complications, were compared between endoscopic and open groups. The PubMed/MEDLINE database was queried for studies comparing the techniques.

Results:

A total of 10 726 single-level lumbar decompression patients were identified and included in this study, 34 (0.32%) of whom were operated upon endoscopically. Apart from 2 (5.88%) readmissions, among which only 1 was unplanned, there were no reported surgical complications within the endoscopic group. The mean length of stay for these patients was 0.86 ± 1.44 days, with procedures lasting an average of 91.89 ± 46.72 minutes. However, these endpoints did not differ significantly from the open group. On literature review, 16 studies met the inclusion criteria, and largely consisted of single-center, retrospective analyses.

Conclusions:

Endoscopically guided approaches to single-level lumbar decompression did not reduce the incidence of adverse events, length of stay or operative time, perhaps due to advances among certain nonendoscopic techniques, such as microsurgery.