bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value Addition to Minor Forest Produce: Gateway to Economic Empowerment of Jharkhand Tribals
Authors: Saboo Shalini
Published: December 2018

In all, about a billion people rely on forests for their food, fuel and income. In India alone, forests account for over a fifth of the country’s total geographical area. Of this, Jharkhand consists of 23,605 sq. km, that is, 29.61 per cent. Here, eight out of ten tribals live in and around forests. About 60 per cent of these tribals are dependent on forests. Despite this, it is a matter of extreme paradox that nothing is being done in the state to utilise forests and its minor produce though things are being done to strengthen the horticulture mission catering to only 17 per cent of cultivable land. This article brings out the facts how ‘value addition’ to minor forest produce (MFP) can not only generate income opportunity for tribals of Jharkhand but can also add to the state’s revenue in a huge way. Till date, MFP and its significance on ‘value addition’ have not even been flagged as an economic issue in Jharkhand. For instance, products made after ‘value addition’ done to an MFP like tendu leaves is generating a heavy revenue to the state. If the same is done to other MFPs such as lac and karanj, it can transform the economic condition of forest dwellers in the state. Figures reveal that value addition done to horticulture, globally, is around 70 per cent but what has been done in India forms a mere 5 per cent. To cater to this small portion, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been constituted at the Centre but for forest produce none exists. In Jharkhand too, Mega Food Parks are being developed and only recently, foundation for an agriculture university has been laid at Barhi. This research suggests that the state needs a forest-centric research institute. Why cannot we have a Jharkhand Forest University on the lines of Birsa Agriculture University? Thereafter, the article talks about how amendments need to be made in archaic forest laws making community forest rights more significant. It also shows how panchayats have a significant role to play in the protection of forests. Above all, the study depicts the way out as to how Jharkhand can be the epitome of forest-centric research in the country.
The Rise and Nature of Alternative Work Arrangements in the United States, 1995–2015
Authors: Katz Lawrence F. , Krueger Alan B.
Published: December 2018

To monitor trends in alternative work arrangements, the authors conducted a version of the Contingent Worker Survey as part of the RAND American Life Panel in late 2015. Their findings point to a rise in the incidence of alternative work arrangements in the US economy from 1995 to 2015. The percentage of workers engaged in alternative work arrangements—defined as temporary help agency workers, on-call workers, contract workers, and independent contractors or freelancers—rose from 10.7% in February 2005 to possibly as high as 15.8% in late 2015. Workers who provide services through online intermediaries, such as Uber or TaskRabbit, accounted for 0.5% of all workers in 2015. Of the workers selling goods or services directly to customers, approximately twice as many reported finding customers through off-line intermediaries than through online intermediaries.
Advertising and Promotion Effects on Consumer Response to New Products
Authors: Nakanishi Masao
Published: December 2018

This article develops a stochastic model of consumer response to new products which incorporates the effects of over-time variations in advertising and promotion. The model's primary usefulness lies in its ability to generate conditional forecasts of product sales to evaluate alternative marketing programs for new product introduction.
Estimation of Market Area Population from Residential Electrical Utility Data
Authors: Hepburn George C. , Mayor Thomas H. , Stafford James E.
Published: December 2018

An ability to project current population in small market trading areas is critical to many types of market research. The use of selected utility data to estimate current population in small geographic areas is evaluated.
Time Changes in Perception: A Longitudinal Application of Multidimensional Scaling
Authors: Moinpour Reza , McCullough James M. , MacLachlan Douglas L.
Published: December 2018

Multidimensional scaling techniques are employed in a longitudinal experiment as an approach to investigate attitude processes. An attempt is made to validate nonmetric multidimensional scaling as a useful instrument for monitoring changes in perception brought about by persuasive communication over time.
On the Validity and Reliability of Direct Similarity Judgments
Authors: Summers John O. , MacKay David B.
Published: December 2018

The writers raise several conceptual issues concerning direct similarity judgments and provide data on their reliability and validity. The results present a discouraging view of the reliability and validity of these judgments as measures of individual perceptions.
Voice Construction and Development of a Multilingual Student Writer: A Bakhtinian Perspective
Authors: Zacharias Nugrahenny T.
Published: December 2018

The construction and development of a writer’s voice is a concept that continues to be of interest when teaching multilingual writing. Studies of voice construction of multilingual student writers have generally focussed on the linguistic aspects of voice construction, but are relatively limited in demonstrating the ways in which these students negotiate classroom pedagogy to construct and develop an academic voice (Tardy, 2016). Using a Bakhtinian view of voice as dialogic, the current study explores the development of voice construction of one Chinese international student (CIS) called Shan (a pseudonym) and to what extent her voice was shaped by the mediational tools employed in the classroom. I draw on a narrative analysis framework which provides a systematic tool for exploring one student’s voice construction and development when writing an argumentative paper. The analysis of Shan’s narrative illustrates the significant role of classroom pedagogy to the way Shan developed an academic voice. Pedagogical implications of the study are given at the end of the article.
Representational momentum in displacement tasks: Relative object weight matters in toddlers’ search behavior
Authors: Hast Michael
Published: December 2018

Various developmental studies have demonstrated that implied object weight is a key variable in children’s interpretations of motion, such as predicting the objects’ speeds. An additional bias in predictions of object motion is representational momentum (RM), where objects are anticipated to be found in a location farther along in the direction of motion from where they actually are. The present study aimed to evaluate when children begin to be sensitive to relative weight in a RM-related search task. Toddlers ( N = 60) aged 2, 2½ and 3 years first visually and manually experienced a heavy ball, a light ball, or both balls at the same time. They then watched one of the balls roll down a ramp and behind a screen with four doors, with a visible barrier placed along the ramp in various positions that would stop the ball’s motion, after which the toddlers were allowed to search for the ball by opening one of the doors. Search accuracy generally increased with age but the accuracy also depended on condition. Relative heaviness in particular led to reduced search accuracy. Further analyses revealed relative heaviness to lead to more searches farther beyond the barrier, adding to the expected RM effect.
Who is the ‘communis’ in sensus communis? A response to Ferrara
Authors: McNay Lois
Published: December 2018

Of the many interesting points that Alessandro Ferrara raises in reply to my article, I focus in response on the question of context transcendence for, as well as seeming to lie at the heart of our differences, it is of foundational importance to the tradition of critical theory which influences both our work. I agree with Ferrara about the ‘conceptual necessity’ of context transcendence for critique but I disagree with the assumption that he makes that experientially grounded critique is necessarily inimical to context transcendence. I argue that this need not be the case if we conceive of the transcending capacity of thought in ways that are more compatible with the practical logic of social life, for example, in the historicized terms of a sociolinguistic expressivism. Ferrara’s elision of experientially grounded critique with radical contextualism tout court sets up something of a false dilemma between immanence and transcendence which ultimately serves to justify his reliance on the dubious ahistorical construct of sensus communis. By directing attention away from patterns of agency and struggle and towards a hypothetical normative commonality, sensus communis neutralizes democratic conflict and the political significance of the exemplar. It is not a question of choosing between immanence and transcendence, rather the task that confronts the theorist is to inhabit the space between experiential disclosure and generalizing critique in as productive and dialogical manner as possible. It is within these terms that I suggest a politicized reading of exemplarity.
Emotion regulation and intimacy quality: The consequences of emotional integration, emotional distancing, and suppression
Authors: Shahar Bat-Hen , Kalman-Halevi M. , Roth Guy
Published: December 2018

The study explored the quality of conflictual discussion between intimate partners and their emotional experience subsequent to emotion regulation (ER) manipulation. It differentiated between integrative ER (IER), which involves an interested stance to emotional experience, and two types of regulation aimed at minimizing emotions: emotional distancing (minimization of emotional experience) and suppression of expressive behavior (minimization of emotional expression). The sample included 140 intimate couples randomly assigned to one of four conditions (IER, distancing, suppression, and control). Following the selection of a specific relational conflict to discuss, one of the partners received manipulation instruction; the other (naïve) partner was oblivious to the instruction. During a 10-min discussion, the naïve partner’s skin conductance level was continuously assessed. The partners’ self-reported perceptions of quality of experience and discussion were measured after the discussion. In general, the results provide preliminary support for the hypothesis that taking an interest in one’s emotional experience during a conflictual discussion results in better communication and higher perceptions of discussion productivity. Furthermore, in contrast to the IER condition, in the emotional distancing condition, the naïve partners’ physiological arousal increased as the discussion progressed. Hence, the results support the hypothesis that taking an interest in and accepting one’s negative emotions promote adaptive communication in conflictual discussions between intimate partners.
Serotonin actions within the prelimbic cortex induce anxiolysis mediated by serotonin 1a receptors
Authors: Yamashita Paula SM , Rosa Daiane S , Lowry Christopher A , Zangrossi Helio
Published: December 2018

Background:

Serotonin plays an important role in the regulation of anxiety, acting through complex modulatory mechanisms within distinct brain structures. Serotonin can act through complex negative feedback mechanisms controlling the neuronal activity of serotonergic circuits and downstream physiologic and behavioral responses. Administration of serotonin or the serotonin 1A receptor agonist, (±)-8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), into the prefrontal cortex, inhibits anxiety-like responses. The prelimbic area of the prefrontal cortex regulates serotonergic neurons within the dorsal raphe nucleus and is involved in modulating anxiety-like behavioral responses.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the serotonergic role within the prelimbic area on anxiety- and panic-related defensive behavioral responses.

Methods:

We investigated the effects of serotonin within the prelimbic area on inhibitory avoidance and escape behaviors in the elevated T-maze. We also extended the investigation to serotonin 1A, 2A, and 2C receptors.

Results:

Intra-prelimbic area injection of serotonin or 8-OH-DPAT induced anxiolytic effects without affecting escape behaviors. Previous administration of the serotonin 1A receptor antagonist, WAY-100635, into the prelimbic area counteracted the anxiolytic effects of serotonin. Neither the serotonin 2A nor the serotonin 2C receptor preferential agonists, (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) and 6-chloro-2-(1-piperazinyl) pyrazine (MK-212), respectively, affected behavioral responses in the elevated T-maze.

Conclusion:

Facilitation of serotonergic signaling within the prelimbic area of rats induced an anxiolytic effect in the elevated T-maze test, which was mediated by local serotonin 1A receptors. This inhibition of anxiety-like defensive behavioral responses may be mediated by prelimbic area projections to neural systems controlling anxiety, such as the dorsal raphe nucleus or basolateral amygdala.
Selling Sex as an Edgework: Risk Taking and Thrills in China’s Commercial Sex Industry
Authors: Tsang Eileen Yuk-ha
Published: December 2018

Academic discussions of the sex industry need to consider sex worker’s experience within the conceptual framework of “edgework.” Edgework is voluntary risky activity that combines danger with excitement and emotional pleasure. This article argues female sex worker must weigh possible outcomes in terms of the resulting benefits or consequences. The notion of edgework articulated by Stephen Lyng proposed there is a fine line for risky behavior going from pleasurable and manageable to turning dangerous and chaotic. This description of edgework applies to female sex workers, and needs to be extended to individualization in the Chinese context. Research data collected from two distinct ethnographies in Dongguan (195 sex workers) and Hong Kong (39 sex workers). The research findings provide insights into the experiences and motivations of an underexamined niche segment of sex workers. A significant number of sex workers embody the perspective of edgework to maintain self-esteem in difficult circumstances. For example, edgework explains several aspects of sex work including notions of excitement and personal pleasure, developing skills within the craft, developing interpersonal networks with peers, and gaining personal happiness through fulfilling sexual desire.
Defence Mechanisms and Coping Strategies among Caregivers in Palliative Care Units
Authors: Timmermann Marie , Naziri Despina , Etienne Anne-Marie
Published: December 2018

This article focuses on the relationship between defence mechanisms, coping strategies, palliative attitude, and the well-being of caregivers in palliative care units, who are confronted with death, suffering, and pain. They use many different defence mechanisms; however, studies linking their coping strategies and defence mechanisms are rare. This study uses a quantitative and qualitative design and is based on 18 caregivers (nurses) in 2 palliative care units in Belgium. Defence mechanisms are tested through a semi-structured interview, TAT, and DSQ-60. Coping strategies are evaluated through a semi-structured interview, COPE, and WCQ. To maximize our global approach, coping strategies and defence mechanisms are associated with measures of well-being and palliative attitude. We determined that defence mechanisms and coping strategies should not be seen as obstacles to professional practices. Palliative caregivers are more likely to adopt “mature” and “mental inhibition and compromise formation” defence mechanisms, as well as “emotion-focused” and “problem-focused” coping strategies. Defence mechanisms are more unconscious and constitute appropriate answers in extreme emotional situations. Coping strategies allow for more conscious processes of adaptation to the environment of palliative care units. This study shows positive relationships between different defence mechanisms and coping strategies, palliative attitudes, and caregivers’ well-being. Institutions should improve the conditions for group exchange and for caregivers’ individual introspection so that care-givers develop adapted capacities to cope with anxiety.
Specialist Physician Approaches to Discussing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Frail Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mallery Laurie , Hubbard Ruth E. , Moorhouse Paige , Koller Katalin , Eeles Eamonn M.P.
Published: December 2018

Background: Despite the impact and importance of end-of-life discussions, little is known about how physicians discuss cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with patients and their families. The necessary components for successful communication about CPR are poorly understood and an established framework to structure these conversations is lacking. Here, we were motivated to understand how physicians approach resuscitation planning with families when older patients have limited life expectancy and a high burden of illness. Method: Qualitative analysis was conducted of semi-structured interviews of 28 physicians of varying medical sub-specialties in a tertiary care hospital. Results: Most physicians explored the surrogates’ goals and values, but few provided explicit information about the patients’ overall health status or expected long-term health outcome related to CPR and underlying illnesses. Conclusion: There is considerable heterogeneity in physicians’ approaches to CPR discussions. The principle of autonomy is dominant with less emphasis on providing adequate information for effective decision-making.
End-Of-Life Discussions and Advance Care Planning for Children on Long-Term Assisted Ventilation with Life-Limiting Conditions
Authors: Edwards Jeffrey D. , Kun Sheila S. , Graham Robert J. , Keens Thomas G.
Published: December 2018

Families of children with life-limiting conditions who are on long-term assisted ventilation need to undertake end-of-life advance care planning (ACP) in order to align their goals and values with the inevitability of their child's condition and the risks it entails. To discuss how best to conduct ACP in this population, we performed a retrospective analysis of end-of-life discussions involving our deceased ventilator-assisted patients between 1987 and 2009. A total of 34 (72 percent) of 47 study patients were the subject of these discussions; many discussions occurred after acute deterioration. They resulted in directives to forgo or limit interventions for 21 children (45 percent). We surmise that many families were hesitant to discuss end-of-life issues during periods of relative stability. By offering anticipatory guidance and encouraging contemplation of patients’ goals both in times of stability and during worsening illness, health care providers can better engage patients’ families in ACP. As the child's condition progresses, the emphasis can be recalibrated. How families respond to such encouragement can also serve as a gauge of their willingness to pursue ACP.
Improving Resident Self-Efficacy in Pediatric Palliative Care through Clinical Simulation
Authors: Brown Carrie M. , Lloyd E. Christopher , Swearingen Christopher J. , Boateng Beatrice A.
Published: December 2018

Context: Pediatric residents have limited training and practice experience with palliative care. This study examined whether clinical simulation improved resident self-efficacy in pediatric palliative care. Methods: Residents were surveyed on their self-efficacy and how they perceived the importance of pediatric palliative care; they were then randomized into either a control group or an intervention group. The intervention group participated in two simulated pediatric palliative care scenarios. The residents’ responses before and after the intervention were analyzed to determine whether simulation training had influenced their responses. Results: Although there were no differences in responses on the importance of pediatric palliative care, respondents were more comfortable with suggesting that conferences are needed with families of children who have life-limiting conditions in order to explain do-not-resuscitate orders. Conclusion: Simulation improved pediatric residents’ self-efficacy with end-of-life discussions.
Methotrimeprazine for the management of End-Of-Life Symptoms in Infants and Children
Authors: Hohl Christopher M. , Stenekes Simone , Harlos Michael S. , Shepherd Erin , McClement Susan , Chochinov Harvey Max
Published: December 2018

Objective: This retrospective chart review assessed the efficacy, dose, and safety of methotrimeprazine in palliating end-of-life symptoms in children and infants. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 18 hospitalized pediatric patients who were treated with methotrimeprazine in their last two weeks of life. Data collected included age, diagnosis, symptoms, methotrimeprazine dose, route, efficacy, and any documented adverse effects. Results: Patients’ ages ranged from 16 days to 17 years. Underlying conditions included malignancies, trauma, and various neurodegenerative and congenital diseases. All patients (n=18) were treated for symptoms of agitation, delirium, or restlessness. Most patients also experienced respiratory secretions/congestion (n=15), pain (n=13), and/ or dyspnea (n=9). Less common symptoms included nausea/emesis (n=5) and spasticity (n=1). Methotrimeprazine dosages ranged from 0.02 mg/kg/dose to 0.5 mg/kg/dose. Routes of administration included intravenous (n=13), oral/gastrostomy tube (n=6), or subcutaneous (n=4). Sedation (n=6) was the only documented adverse effect, although when agitation was present, this was potentially an intended and perceived-to-be-beneficial effect. Conclusion: Methotrimeprazine, an old drug with diverse receptor activity and multiple routes of administration, appears to be an effective tool in treating complicated end-of-life symptoms in children and infants. This study provides a foundation for analysis with prospective and comparative trials, which may further quantify its benefit.
Crossing the “Ascent to Competence” Borders Into Privileged Belongingness Space: Practical Nursing Students’ Experiences in Clinical Practice
Authors: Manokore Viola , Rosalia Genelie Ivana , Ali Fauziya , Letersky Sarah , Piadu Ivy Owusu , Palmer-Virgo Lola
Published: December 2018

Background

There is substantial evidence that students’ sense of belonging in clinical practice influence their motivation, learning, and acquisition of skills. Despite the importance of belongingness in clinical education, not many studies have been done in the Canadian context in general and practical nurse education in particular.

Purpose

The main objective of this study was to explore practical nursing students’ experiences in clinical education with regard to their sense of belongingness. In addition, we also examined clinical instructors’ experiences in fostering a sense of belongingness to students in clinical settings.

Methods

Ascent to competence conceptual framework was used as an analytic lens in this study. Students enrolled in a two-year diploma in practical nursing and their instructors participated in the study. A total of 12 students and 4 clinical instructors participated in the in-depth semistructured one-on-one interviews. Inductive and deductive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Deductive analysis used predetermined themes as per ascent to competence framework. Inductive thematic analysis allowed us to provide additional themes on concepts that could not be effectively explained by the predetermined themes.

Results

Students described the uniqueness of their instructors and clinical sites as important attributes that enable them to cross various “borders” as they gain access to a “belongingness space” of acceptance, respect, and competency. Productive learning experiences were achieved by students who felt supported and “granted permission” to enter the belongingness space. The instructors highlighted their perceived roles in providing scaffolding supports they thought would help students feel a sense of belonging.

Conclusions

Students cross several borders as they persevere to gain access to the revered belongingness space. Clinical instructors play a major role in assisting students to enter the belongingness space where meaningful learning occurs.
Systematically Observed Movement Integration in a Low Socioeconomic School District: A Cross-Sectional, Observational Study
Authors: Stewart Gregory , Webster Collin A. , Brian Ali , Stodden David , Egan Cate A. , Weaver R. Glenn
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

To describe teacher’s integration of activity into general education classroom time (ie, movement integration—MI).

Design:

Cross-sectional, observational.

Setting:

Eight elementary schools in a rural, low-income school district.

Participants:

Elementary classroom teachers (N = 48).

Measure:

Classroom teachers were observed using the System for Observing Student Movement in Academic Routines and Transitions (SOSMART) on random, unannounced days during the 2015-16 academic year.

Analysis:

Descriptive statistics were calculated for the frequency and types of MI being used.

Results:

Of the 9398 SOSMART scans completed, students engaged in movement in 41.3% of the scans. Student movement was observed to be teacher directed in 14.4% and nonteacher directed in 26.9% of scans. Nonteacher-directed movement consisted mostly of transitions ( M = 99.5%) in which movement occurred as a result of preestablished classroom rules, protocols, and organization.

Conclusion:

This is one of the first studies to provide objective information about MI. These descriptive data lay the groundwork for future correlational and experimental research that can lead to the development of effective intervention design to increase MI use in schools.
Regional Anesthesia for Dentistry and Oral Surgery
Authors: Lantz Gary C.
Published: December 2018

Pain is a perception that results from activation of a specific set of receptors by noxious stimuli. Processing by the central nervous system results in the stimulus to be perceived as pain. Thermal receptors respond to temperature changes, mechanoreceptors respond to pressure, tension, stretch, and chemoreceptors respond to substances released during the inflammatory process such as prostaglandins, histamine, serotonin, and bradykinin. The current standard of veterinary medical practice is adequate pain management for all patients. Regional anesthesia is one component of overall pain management of the oral surgery/dental patient and is described step-by-step.
Just War Pacifism: Must it be a Contradiction in Terms?
Authors: Patterson Colin
Published: December 2018

Efforts to resolve the tension within the Christian moral theological tradition between just war theory and pacifism have so far not produced any broadly accepted resolution. Key sticking points lie both in the fact that even a just war typically involves the taking of human life, both combatant and civilian, and that the distinction between intentional and unintentional killing, so important to Christian moral reflection, is difficult to sustain in practice. Yet, with the prospect of the development of effective non-lethal weapons, the path may be opened up to a genuine resolution of the tension. This article describes in general terms the way that such a development might be pursued, but also argues that the use of non-lethal weaponry would necessitate a re-interpretation of warfare as an exercise in a form of international policing. A number of potential criticisms of such a proposal are considered.
A Perspective on Higher Education and Client Servicing in the Vanstone Era
Authors: Marginson Simon
Published: December 2018

The changes to higher education policy in Australia announced by Senator Amanda Vanstone in August 1996 have significantly altered the environment in which university career services operate. The increased emphasis on competition between institutions, in the context of the requirement that institutions generate more of their own income, has differential effects on different kinds of universities. The older “sandstone” universities and the larger universities of technology have seen their competitive position improve, while the situation facing other universities is becoming more difficult. The new environment has also placed pressure on careers advisers to generate better labour market information for students and to recover a growing proportion of their own costs.
Pathology and immunohistochemistry of a malignant nerve sheath tumor in a pig: case report and brief review of the literature
Authors: Stilwell Justin M. , Rissi Daniel R.
Published: December 2018

A 7-y-old sow with a large mass in the right upper thoracic limb was submitted for autopsy. Grossly, the mass encompassed the right humerus, elbow, and proximal radius and ulna. On cut surface, the mass was solid, lobulated, pale tan, and firm, with multifocal areas of necrosis and mineralization; it replaced the brachial musculature, invading and causing extensive humeral and ulnar osteolysis. The periosteum was roughened and irregular, and there was minor invasion into the elbow joint. Histologically, the mass was composed of densely cellular interweaving streams and bundles of pleomorphic spindle cells embedded in a scant fibrovascular stroma. There was moderate-to-strong, diffuse cytoplasmic or membranous immunoreactivity to claudin-1, laminin, and vimentin; weak-to-moderate, multifocal cytoplasmic and nuclear immunoreactivity to S100 and Sox-10, respectively, and weak cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for neuron-specific enolase. No neoplastic immunolabeling was detected with CD204, CD18, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, melan A, neurofilament, nerve growth factor receptor, smooth muscle actin, or muscle pan-actin. A specific immunomarker for definitive diagnosis of a malignant nerve sheath tumor (MNST) and its differentiation from other nerve tumors or other spindle cell tumors is still lacking in veterinary medicine, and case-by-case or interspecies differences in immunohistochemistry (IHC) expression can occur even when applying a broad diagnostic IHC panel. However, the gross, histologic, and IHC features in our case were consistent with a MNST, an exceedingly rare neoplasm of pigs.
Nonlinear bending analysis of shape memory alloy beam considering both material and geometric nonlinearity effects
Authors: Zamani Alavije Rasool , Botshekanan Dehkordi Mohsen
Published: December 2018

This study examined the nonlinear super-elastic bending of shape memory alloy beam considering the material and geometric nonlinearity effects that coupled together. Shape memory alloy properties change instantaneously at different points in the beam, while they are unknown at the same time. In other words, coupling of the governing and kinetic equations of the shape memory alloy beams together results in a more complicated analysis. In this study, the governing equations were extracted through using the Timoshenko beam theory and applying the principle of virtual work. For achieving this goal, von Karman strains were applied to consider large deflections. The Boyd–Lagoudas three-dimensional constitutive model and return mapping algorithm were also used for shape memory alloy modeling. Furthermore, in order to obtain the characteristics of finite element beam, the Galerkin weighted-residual method was used by developing the iterative nonlinear finite element model. Considering the different supporting conditions and forces for the shape memory alloy beam, this study examined their effects on the distribution of martensitic volume fraction, stress distribution, and changes in the location of the neutral axis. The obtained results revealed that as loading increases, the magnitude of martensitic volume fraction and the level of hysteresis increase, which in turn would result in reduction of the modulus of elasticity and the strength of the material and consequently increases the deflection of shape memory alloy beam. The findings suggested the necessity of nonlinear strain field in this modeling by which the stress distribution and volume fraction become asymmetric along the beam thickness. The results were presented in the forms of loading and unloading diagrams for different support and force conditions, and the martensitic volume fraction along the length and through the thickness of the shape memory alloy beam were also shown. To validate the proposed formulation, the results were compared with other experimental findings in this regard suggesting that there is an acceptable and satisfying level of agreement between them.
Proliferative Funiculitis-Like Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma With Mesothelial Glandular Structures: A Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Konstantinov Alexey S. , Shelekhova Ksenya V.
Published: December 2018

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma shows a wide morphological spectrum. We present a case of dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the spermatic cord in a 66-year-old male that was initially misinterpreted as pseudosarcomatous proliferative funiculitis with mesothelial proliferation.
Kidney Biopsy Findings in a Patient With Valproic Acid-Associated Fanconi Syndrome
Authors: Singer Pamela , Sethna Christine B , Castellanos-Reyes Laura , Yaskiv Oksana , Bijol Vanesa
Published: December 2018

A 7-year-old boy with a history of febrile illness-related epilepsy syndrome presented with proteinuria and elevated creatinine. His severe epileptic disorder has been treated since age 2 with multiple antiepileptic medications, including valproic acid. More recently, he was noted to have features of Fanconi syndrome with acidosis, hypophosphatemia, hypokalemia, glucosuria, and nephrotic-range proteinuria. This was managed with supplements; however, in the setting of rising creatinine and prominent proteinuria, a kidney biopsy was performed. Renal cortex revealed markedly decreased expression of proximal tubule markers and increased expression of markers of distal nephron differentiation. Such findings have been described in several genetic and acquired conditions, including renal tubular dysgenesis, severe hypoxic injury following renal artery stenosis, and toxic injury related to in utero exposure to angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors. Such changes have not been reported before in valproic acid-associated Fanconi syndrome, although in general, morphologic findings in this condition have not been well established in the literature.
Glaucoma in children with facial port wine stain
Authors: Bayoumi Nader Hussein Lotfy , Elsayed Eman Nabil
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

To report on the clinical presentation and surgical treatment (procedure and outcome(s)) of glaucoma in children with facial port wine stain.

Materials and methods:

This is a retrospective chart review of children with facial port wine stain referred to Alexandria University paediatric ophthalmology practice from 2005 to 2016. The charts of 22 children (44 eyes) with facial port wine stain were reviewed. The data extracted included demographics, results of ophthalmic examination findings and treatment(s). The main outcome measures were the number of eyes stratified as glaucoma, glaucoma suspects and no glaucoma at the initial and final presentations.

Results:

The average age of presentation was 18.2 (±33.9) months. After a follow-up of over 16.1 (±24.8) months, there were 34%, 30% and 36% of the study eyes diagnosed as glaucoma, glaucoma suspects and no glaucoma, respectively with mean ± standard deviation of intraocular pressure of 20.6 ± 5.1, 13.6 ± 5.4 and 7.5 ± 1.7 mmHg. The majority (91%) of eyes presenting with glaucoma had clear corneas. In total, 11 eyes were operated upon for glaucoma. The recorded success rate was 91%. Two eyes developed a postoperative exudative choroidal detachment, of which one resolved spontaneously and the other was successfully managed by intravitreal gas injection.

Conclusion:

Glaucoma is a significant ocular hazard in children with facial port wine stain that may not be evident on the initial presentation. The presentation is usually with a clear cornea and surgical intervention is associated with a high success rate and a low rate of complications.
Towards a cultural revision of psychological concepts
Authors: Guimarães Danilo Silva
Published: December 2018

Chinese psychologists present important considerations on the individualism-collectivism dichotomy, which has become a dominant reference in cross-cultural studies since the 80s. They observe that cross-cultural psychology has failed to define the concepts of collectivism and individualism in a precise manner, making it difficult to measure accurately intercultural differences. I argue that culture is a fundamental dimension of human experience. It guides us by means of verbal and nonverbal semiotic resources, actions, and personal aspirations. It also offers us symbolic resources for reflecting on these actions and aspirations, thus constituting points of view, relatively singular ways of being and of acting, either reflectively or not. The points of view that develop from different cultural traditions establish horizons that define the limits and propose the ways for people to inhabit the world with others. Furthermore, the conceptions that emerge from each culturally grounded point of view are not easily interchangeable, given that they belong to diversely built language systems. For this reason, psychological theorizations must take into account their own cultural background, as a condition for understanding the misconceptions and misunderstandings that take place when cultures exert their exotic views over one another.
Acceptability of the Medication Adherence for Patients Support intervention to improve adherence to patients prescribed medications for hypertension or comorbidities, as an adjunct to primary care: A qualitative study
Authors: Kassavou Aikaterini , Houghton Vikki , Edwards Simon , Brimicombe James , Wilson Ed , Griffin Simon , Sutton Stephen
Published: December 2018

Tailored interventions delivered via text and voice messages can improve adherence to multiple medications. However, no such intervention has been developed in the UK primary-care setting. We conducted focus groups with 12 patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or both conditions, presumed to be non-adherent and recruited from deprived neighborhoods, to assess the acceptability and inform the development of an intervention to provide ongoing support for adherence, as an adjunct to primary-care consultations. Patients recommended ways to improve the tailored content and delivery of the intervention; like highly interactive messages to report both medication taking and determinants of medication adherence.
Diversity may help the uninterested: Evidence that exposure to counter-stereotypes promotes cognitive reflection for people low (but not high) in need for cognition
Authors: Damer Ekaterina , Webb Thomas L. , Crisp Richard J.
Published: December 2018

Previous theorizing and research has linked exposure to counter-stereotypical diversity (e.g., an Oxford-educated bricklayer) to enhanced cognitive performance and creativity. However, it is unclear whether people’s motivation to cognitively engage with the counter-stereotypical information (i.e., need for cognition [NFC]) influences this effect. Across three experiments ( N = 887) we found consistent support for the idea that exposure to counter-stereotypes (CSTs) promotes cognitive reflection for people low in NFC ( d+ = .34). In contrast, people high in NFC showed decreased cognitive reflection after being exposed to CSTs ( d+ = −.18), although the evidence for the latter effect was weak. These findings suggest that exposure to CSTs can promote cognitive reflection unless people have a strong desire to understand and predict outcomes and events, in which case exposure to CSTs may backfire. Taken together, we conclude that motivation to engage in cognitive activity may be an important consideration for research and interventions involving social and cultural diversity.
Physical activity in COPD: Minimal clinically important difference for medical events
Authors: Teylan Merilee , Kantorowski Ana , Homsy Diana , Kadri Reema , Richardson Caroline , Moy Marilyn
Published: December 2018

Estimates of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for physical activity (PA) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are needed. The objective is to provide an anchor-based estimate of the MCID for daily step count. PA was promoted in persons with COPD using a pedometer (Omron HJ-720ITC) alone or a pedometer plus interactive website for 3 months. Participants wore the pedometer daily and received phone calls monthly to ascertain medical events. Medical events were counted when a participant self-reported that he/she had (1) worsening of breathing, (2) change to breathing medications, (3) medical care from an emergency room for any reason, or (4) hospitalization for any reason. Generalized linear regression models assessed daily step count as change at the end of study and averaged over the 15, 31, or 61 days centered on the event, in those with an event compared to those without one. All categories of events carried equal weight in the analyses. We studied 93 persons, 46 of whom had an event. Participants who experienced an event had a decrease of 1086 (95% confidence interval (CI): −2124 to −48) or 887 (95% CI: −2030 to 257) steps/day in the pedometer plus website or pedometer alone groups, respectively, compared to those without one. In the days centered on an event, participants who had an event experienced a decrease of 882–983 steps/day (pedometer plus website) or a decrease of 351–495 steps/day (pedometer alone), compared to those without one. The MCID for PA in COPD ranges from 350 steps/day to 1100 steps/day.
Incidence and Treatment of Limb Occlusion of the Anaconda Endograft After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Rödel Steffan G. J. , Zeebregts Clark J. , Meerwaldt Robert , van der Palen Job , Geelkerken Robert H.
Published: December 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the incidence and treatment of limb occlusions of the second- and third-generation Anaconda endografts. Methods: A single-center retrospective study was conducted involving 317 consecutive patients (mean age 76 years; 289 men) who underwent endovascular aneurysm repair for elective asymptomatic, symptomatic intact, and ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm with 2 versions of the Anaconda device. From September 2003 to July 2011, the second-generation device was used in 189 patients (mean age 77 years; 169 men) and from July 2011 to September 2015, the third-generation device was implanted in 128 patients (mean age 75 years; 120 men). The rates of limb occlusion were compared between groups and according to compliance with the instructions for use (IFU); predictors were sought in multivariate analysis. The results of the latter are given as the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Kaplan-Meier freedom of occlusion estimates for second- and third-generation devices, respectively, was 96.6% and 95.0% at 1 year, 89.9% and 95.0% at 2 years, and 86.5% and 88.6% at 5 years. There was no significant difference in overall occlusion rate between the second-generation devices (p=0.332) or with regard to use within the IFU (p=0.827); however, there was a clinically relevant decrease in the occlusion rate for elective patients treated with the third-generation device (6.4% vs 13.1%, p=0.077). There was an increase in the occlusion rate when the iliac limb diameter was ≤13 mm. In multivariate analysis, the only independent predictor of limb occlusion was a small distal prosthesis diameter (HR 0.732, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.86, p<0.001). Symptomatic nonruptured and ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) interventions had an almost 2-fold increased risk of occlusion (HR 1.95, 95% CI 0.93 to 4.11, p=0.078), though this did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: The Anaconda design has proven effectiveness in AAA exclusion in daily practice inside the IFU. However, efforts could be made to further reduce the limb occlusion rate.
Comparative study of mechanical characteristics of recycled PET fibres for automobile seat cover application
Authors: Albini Giulia , Brunella Valentina , Placenza Bartolomeo , Martorana Brunetto , Guido Lambertini Vito
Published: December 2018

Polyethylene terephthalate is a thermoplastic polymer with a wide range of uses, including synthetic fibres and containers for beverages and other liquids. Recycling plastics reduces the amount of energy and natural resources needed to create virgin plastics. Polyethylene terephthalate containers and bottles are collected and then broken down into small flakes used to produce new products such as textile fibres. Thermo-mechanical degradation may happen during the recycling process and presence of contaminants affects the final product characteristics. Two kinds of recycled polyethylene terephthalate fibres were used for fabrics production: post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate fibres and a blend of post-consumer and post-industrial polyethylene terephthalate fibres. Focusing on knitted and flat-woven textile structures, main mechanical properties of the fabrics were assessed by various tests, like tensile strength test and wear resistance test. A comparative study with the current production of virgin polyethylene terephthalate fabrics was useful to evaluate high standards accordance for automotive field. Both knitted and flat-woven recycled polyethylene terephthalate fabrics had excellent performance after mechanical tests. Post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate fabrics had the best results, especially after wear resistance test. These results allow an evaluation of their applications.
Feasibility and Safety of Reverse Catheterization Technique of the Superficial Femoral Artery in Single-Stage Endovascular Treatment of Bilateral Infrainguinal Diseases
Authors: Kadoya Yoshito , Zen Kan , Kato Taku , Wada Naotoshi , Wakana Noriyuki , Yanishi Kenji , Nakanishi Naohiko , Nakamura Takeshi , Matoba Satoaki
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

We evaluated the feasibility and safety of the reverse catheterization technique of the superficial femoral artery (ReCAT) for single-stage endovascular treatment (EVT) in patients with bilateral infrainguinal diseases.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated 24 consecutive patients (overall median age: 79 years; male patients: 21 [87.5%]) who underwent EVT for bilateral infrainguinal diseases. The objective of ReCAT was to perform single-stage EVT in patients with bilateral infrainguinal diseases with a one-time unilateral femoral artery puncture. The main outcomes were the incidence of puncture site complications, including major bleeding or hematoma requiring transfusion, pseudoaneurysm, and arteriovenous fistula, and ReCAT procedure-related arterial dissection or perforation, which were assessed by ultrasonography on the day after the procedure. The secondary outcome measures were in-hospital mortality and in-hospital amputation.

Results:

Reverse catheterization technique of the superficial femoral artery was successful in 23 (95.8%) of the 24 patients; it failed in 1 patient due to severe calcification and a previously implanted stent in the ipsilateral iliac artery. The median operation time, radiation time, and the volume of contrast media used were 108 (84-142) minutes, 37 (27-55) minutes, and 111 (80-157) mL, respectively. There were no incidences of puncture site complications and arterial dissection related to the ReCAT procedure. One case of vessel perforation in a branch of the ipsilateral superficial femoral artery occurred due to flipped guidewire injury.

Conclusion:

Reverse catheterization technique of the superficial femoral artery is safe and effective in performing single-stage EVT for bilateral infrainguinal diseases. It might also reduce the number of EVTs and complications due to multiple femoral artery punctures.