bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Selatosomus Stephens and the occurrence of Pristilophus melancholicus (Fabricius) in China (Coleoptera: Elateridae: Dendrometrinae)
Authors: QIU LU
Published: May 2018

Selatosomus huanghaoi Qiu, new species is described from Yunnan, China. Habitus and diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated. The presence of Pristilophus melancholicus (Fabricius) in China is confirmed.
Endocan Levels and Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients With Sarcoidosis
Authors: Aciksari Gonul , Kavas Murat , Atici Adem , Kul Seref , Erman Hayriye , Yilmaz Yusuf , Demircioglu Kenan , Yalcinkaya Emre , Kanbay Asiye , Caliskan Mustafa
Published: May 2018

A systemic inflammatory reaction is a common feature of both sarcoidosis and atherosclerosis. Endothelial-cell specific molecule 1 (endocan) is a marker of vascular pathology which also shows a correlation with inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the vascular involvement in sarcoidosis using serum endocan levels and brachial artery flow–mediated dilation (FMD), a marker of endothelial dysfunction. We included 53 patients with sarcoidosis without conventional cardiovascular risk factors and 40 healthy controls. Endothelial function was assessed using FMD. Endocan concentrations were measured using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunoassay. Patients with sarcoidosis had significantly higher endocan levels (306 [68] ng/mL vs 269 [73] ng/mL; P = .039) and lower FMD (2.7% [2.3%-3.2%] vs 8% [5%-13%]; P < .001) compared with the healthy group. A negative correlation was found between endocan levels and FMD in the sarcoidosis group ( r = −.325, P < .007). We conclude that sarcoidosis is associated with high levels of endocan and lower FMD values, which may indicate endothelial dysfunction and an early stage of atherosclerosis.
Linking Infrared Spectra of Laboratory Iron Gall Inks Based on Traditional Recipes with their Material Components
Authors: Kaminari Agathi-Anthoula , Boyatzis Stamatis C. , Alexopoulou Athina
Published: May 2018

The question for discriminating iron gall inks is addressed by correlating their infrared (IR) spectra in liquid and dried states with the materials used in their formulations and considering their possible interactions. A series of laboratory inks were prepared according to historic recipes, mainly found in 19th-century documents, and were accordingly studied using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. All ink formulations were based on Aleppo galls, ferrous sulfate, and gum arabic at variable proportions, with various added components, such as alum, vinegar, glycerol, sugar, silver nitrate, cloves, and white wine. Ingredients of the corresponding inks were recognized by means of their IR fingerprints in both their liquid and dried states, respectively. Although a few inks of distinct formulations showed discernible differences in their spectra, the majority showed quite similar absorptions. Principal component analysis and discriminant analysis were employed to successfully discriminate inks, based on their IR peaks. Spectra recorded in the liquid state, despite their broad absorption features, led to satisfactory discrimination of certain types of inks as most of their ingredients are reflected in their IR peaks. Spectra from dried inks contained similar information, which equally worked in a sufficient discriminatory way. Key IR peaks in the recorded spectra of inks made with the addition of special ingredients, such as vinegar, wine, alum, glycerol, and sugar, as well as those prepared with specific tannin-enhancing procedures, such as gall boiling, were located and used in the discrimination basis.
Pulmonary Hypertension with Thalidomide Therapy; Hyperammonemia and Valproate; CNS Toxicity from Improper Use of Cyclopentolate Ophthalmic Drops; Glycemic Control Issues with Gatifloxacin; Infusion Phlebitis with Cyclosporine; Acute Hypersensitivity Reaction to HIV Fusion Inhibitor; Imatinib-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Building the Swiss Army Smartphone
Authors: Felkey Bill G. , Fox Brent I.
Published: May 2018

In this installment, we describe the smartphone we would like vendors to build by borrowing our favorite features from existing devices, and a few functionalities not yet available.
Gross Negligence Manslaughter by Omission
Authors: Crosby Cath
Published: May 2018

There has been much academic debate concerning criminal liability for omissions and the extent to which such liability should be extended. The focus here concerns a recent, unreported, conviction for gross negligence manslaughter which raises the question of how far the courts and the Crown Prosecution Service are willing to blur existing boundaries of omissions liability and the established principles of causation. By scrutinising the current legal duties to act required for such liability to arise in the context of R v Bowditch, it will be demonstrated that we are moving incrementally towards a Good Samaritan law but with an absence of fair warning to guide citizens. Further, it is apparent from this conviction that the restricted principles of causation that apply to actions are not as restrictive when applied to omissions. It is clearly timely for the Law Commission to act to determine appropriate boundaries so that omissions liability complies with the rule of law.
Streamlined Forensic Reporting
Authors: Richmond Karen
Published: May 2018

The Criminal Justice System Efficiency Program aims to deal ‘promptly and efficiently’ with ‘low-level, straightforward cases’ in order to dispense ‘swift and sure justice’. To meet these objectives, the Ministry of Justice places a duty on defence solicitors to reduce the ‘costs and delay associated with forensic evidence’. It justifies its requirements with reference to the Criminal Procedure Rules, highlighting the need for solicitors to actively manage criminal cases, to take part in pre-trial hearings and to engage with forensic evidence through a new form of discourse: Streamlined Forensic Reporting (SFR). The SFR scheme operates ‘by taking a more proportionate approach to forensic evidence through the early preparation of a short report that details the key forensic evidence the prosecution intends to rely upon’. The aim is to avoid the costs associated with thorough forensic analysis by encouraging an early guilty plea. In circumstances where such a plea cannot be elicited, the scheme aims to secure agreement on forensic issues at the earliest stage. It places an obligation on the defence to identify these problematic areas. Drawing on comparative ethnographic research within the forensic science and criminal justice sectors, this article questions the safety or utility of these attenuated and instrumental forms of ‘efficient’ forensic discourse. It demonstrates that streamlined reports are often compiled by non-expert administrators, lack contextual evaluation or technical explanation and are frequently inaccurate or misleading. It asks whether the veiled and incremental approach to the issue of disclosure forms an adequate basis for proper scrutiny or legal challenge, and questions whether this scheme, which exhibits a marked ambivalence towards forensic expertise, may ultimately subvert the duty placed on the courts to place forensic evidence in its proper context.
Using HIV Surveillance Data to Link People to HIV Medical Care, 5 US States, 2012-2015
Authors: Beltrami John , Dubose Odessa , Carson Reginald , Cleveland Janet C.
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

From 2012 through 2015, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided funding to 5 health departments for demonstration projects using HIV surveillance data to link people with newly diagnosed HIV to care. We assessed how well these health departments established linkage to care, how the demonstration projects helped them with this work, and if they sustained these activities after CDC funding ended.

Materials and Methods:

We obtained quantitative and qualitative data on linkage-to-care activities from health department communications and progress reports submitted to CDC. We calculated and combined linkage-to-care results for the 5 health departments, and we compared these results with the combined linkage-to-care results for 61 health departments that received CDC funding for routine HIV prevention activities (eg, HIV testing, linkage to and reengagement in HIV care, HIV partner services) and for the same 5 health departments when they used only routine HIV prevention activities for linkage to care.

Results:

Of 1269 people with a new HIV diagnosis at the 5 health departments, 1124 (89%) were linked to care, a result that exceeded the 2010-2015 National HIV/AIDS Strategy goal (85%), the CDC Funding Opportunity Announcement performance standard (80%), and combined results for the 61 health departments (63%) and the same 5 health departments (66%) using routine HIV prevention activities. Benefits of the projects were improved collaboration and coordination and more accurate, up-to-date surveillance data. All health departments continued linkage-to-care activities after funding ended.

Practice Implications:

Using HIV surveillance data to link people with HIV to care resulted in substantial clinical and public health benefits. Our observations underscore the importance of collaboration among medical providers, public health staff members, community-based organizations, and people with HIV to ensure the best possible clinical and public health outcomes.
Impact tensile behavior analysis of Twaron fiber tows from fast Fourier transform
Authors: Zhu Lvtao , Zhu Guocheng , Feng Jianyong , Jin Limin , Ma Pibo
Published: May 2018

In this study, tensile experiments of Twaron fiber tows under different strain rates (quasi-static: 0.001 s−1, dynamic: 800–2400 s−1) were tested with an MTS materials tester (MTS 810.23) and a split Hopkinson tension bar, respectively. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the Twaron fiber tows were sensitive to strain rate: the stiffness and failure stress of the fiber tows increased distinctly as the strain rate increased, while the failure strain decreased. From scanning electron microscope photographs of the fracture surface, it is evident that the Twaron fiber tows failed in a tougher mode and the axial split became more severe as the strain rate increased. The tensile behaviors of the Twaron fiber tows were analyzed in the frequency domain using the fast Fourier transform method. The amplitude spectrum and power of energy absorption of the Twaron tows were concentrated in a specific frequency range and increased with strain rate.
Multidetector-row CT imaging evaluation of superior and inferior vena cava normal anatomy and caval variants: Report of our cases and literature review with embryologic correlation
Authors: Iezzi Roberto , Posa Alessandro , Carchesio Francesca , Manfredi Riccardo
Published: May 2018

Objective

To assess the potential of multidetector-row computed tomography imaging and its reformations in the evaluation of the superior and inferior vena cava normal anatomy and their anatomical variants, and to make a brief review of caval embryogenesis and developmental errors.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed a total of 1000 whole-body computed tomography scans performed between January 2010 and December 2016 to assess the normal superior and inferior vena cava anatomy and their variants.

Results

The normal superior and inferior vena cava anatomy was found in 88.9% of patients, whereas multiple variants were found, ranging from the superior or inferior vena cava duplication, to the azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava.

Conclusions

Computed tomography is a powerful tool to analyse superior and inferior vena cava anatomical variants. The knowledge and assessment of normal caval anatomy and of its anatomical variants is mandatory in the correct pre-operative planning in surgical and radiological interventions. Knowledge of caval variants is helpful in the differential diagnosis of abdominal or mediastinal masses, to avoid misdiagnosis, as well as in the screening of associated congenital pathologic conditions.
“Glowing Gray” Does Exist: Luminance Gradients’ Influence on Whiteness Perception
Authors: Kobayashi Yuki , Matsushita Soyogu , Morikawa Kazunori
Published: May 2018

Studies on brightness and lightness that employed luminance gradients (i.e., glare stimuli) have suggested that we can perceive luminosity even when the brightness target is darker than white. Although such studies had great impact on research in luminosity perception, whether the whiteness threshold in glare stimuli was lower or higher than the luminosity threshold remained unclear. This study indicated that it is higher than the luminosity threshold, confirming the existence of glowing gray. Moreover, we measured the luminance gradients’ effect on whiteness perception but found no significant effect. Discrepancy in the degree of gradients’ effect on perceived luminosity and perceived white suggests that different mechanisms underlie luminosity (brightness) perception and whiteness (lightness) perception.
Religiosity, Crime, and Drug Use Among Juvenile Offenders: A Test of Reciprocal Relationships Over Time
Authors: Jang Sung Joon
Published: May 2018

This article examines whether an individual’s religiosity has reciprocal relationships with crime and drug use among juvenile offenders. Structural equation modeling is applied to analyze 11-wave panel data from a study of juveniles adjudicated or found guilty of a serious offense in two states. Offenders’ religiosity is measured both objectively (participation in religious activities) and subjectively (religious salience, experiences, and efficacy). While holding constant an offender’s exposure time (the proportion of time on the street), previous levels of crime and drug use, and sociodemographic controls, this study found the relationship between religiosity and crime (i.e., nondrug offending) to be either bidirectional or unidirectional. The relationship between religiosity and drug use (binge drinking, marijuana use, and hard drug use) is, however, unidirectional over time. When unidirectional relationship is found, it is religiosity that decreases crime and drug use, not the other way around. Implications of findings are discussed.
Virtual Reality Headset Training: Can It Be Used to Improve Young Drivers’ Latent Hazard Anticipation and Mitigation Skills
Authors: Agrawal Ravi , Knodler Michael , Fisher Donald L. , Samuel Siby
Published: May 2018

Young drivers are overrepresented in motor-vehicle crashes compared to experienced drivers. Research shows that young drivers are generally clueless, not careless, failing to anticipate and mitigate latent hazards. There are several error-feedback training interventions that emphasize the teaching of latent hazard anticipation skills (e.g., risk awareness and perception training, RAPT) and a few that emphasize both the teaching of hazard anticipation and hazard mitigation skills (e.g., the driver simulation ACCEL). In the current study, a virtual reality, headset-based latent hazard anticipation and mitigation training program (V-RAPT) was developed on a head-mounted display (Oculus Rift). The headset provides the participant with a 100-degree wide field of view of six high-risk driving scenarios, the view changing appropriately as the participant rotates his or her head. Thirty-six young drivers were exposed to one of three training programs—V-RAPT, RAPT, and a placebo—and then evaluated on a driving simulator. Eye movement and vehicle data were collected throughout the simulator evaluation. The drives included the six scenarios used in training and four other scenarios dissimilar to the ones used in training, but previously validated as measures of hazard anticipation. The drivers trained on V-RAPT were found to anticipate a significantly greater proportion (86.25%) of latent hazards than the RAPT (62.36%) and placebo (30.97%) trained drivers. The V-RAPT trained drivers were also found to be better at mitigating potential threats. The virtual reality, headset-based training program holds out the promise of improving drivers’ ability to anticipate and mitigate latent threats and thereby reduce crashes.
Pullout Behavior of Steel Mechanically Stabilized Earth Reinforcements
Authors: Wood Timothy A. , Lawson William D. , Jayawickrama Priyantha W. , Surles James G.
Published: May 2018

Instrumented pullout tests of unprecedented scope and scale explore the pullout behavior for three steel mechanically stabilized earth reinforcement types: ribbed strips, ladder-like strips, and three-wire bar mat grids. These data quantify the distribution of pullout resistance between longitudinal elements and illustrate the nature of certain reinforcement deformations. Consistent with characteristic inextensible pullout behavior and soil-reinforcement interaction, synthesized strain-gage data illustrate linear stress reduction along the embedment length during pullout for all three reinforcement styles. For ladder-like strips, the axial force divides evenly between the two longitudinal elements. For the three-wire bar mat grid, the center bar carries approximately 40% of the axial force, whereas each outside bar carries approximately 30% of the axial force. Observed pullout-induced deformation in the transverse elements of three-wire bar mat grids having widely spaced longitudinal bars is conceptually different from extensible behavior and suggests the need for refinement in current pullout resistance formulations.
Managing Public Communication Strategies in Accelerated Highway Construction Projects
Authors: Minooei Farzad , Sobin Nathaniel , Goodrum Paul M. , Molenaar Keith R.
Published: May 2018

An increase in traveling demands has urged state transportation agencies (STAs) to shorten highway construction project duration, using a variety of accelerated construction techniques and strategies. However, accelerated highway construction projects may impact communities in terms of traffic congestion, safety issues, and other public inconveniences. Effective communication with community stakeholders about these potential inconveniences can provide an opportunity to highlight innovative accomplishments and increase trust between STAs and the traveling public. Therefore, as some studies have shown, effective management of outreach strategies is a key success factor of accelerated construction projects. One of the main goals of this study is to gauge the effectiveness of public outreach tools and strategies in meeting different communication goals, including traffic avoidance, increasing driving awareness, decreasing impatient behavior, and building trust with the public. These tools range from traditional, low-tech methods, such as town hall meetings and static traffic signage, to high-tech methods, such as websites and social media. The data for this research is based on a survey of 71 experts from 40 different STAs. Statistical analyses (analysis of variance) indicate that the effectiveness of outreach tools vary significantly in achieving different communication goals during the construction phase of accelerated highway projects. In addition, the results allowed us to find the most appropriate outreach tools and strategies based on project characteristics and target audience. The findings of this research can help STAs and other public administrators to better manage their outreach activities during the accelerated construction projects.
Travel Behavior in TODs vs. Non-TODs: Using Cluster Analysis and Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Park Keunhyun , Ewing Reid , Scheer Brenda Case , Ara Khan Shabnam Sifat
Published: May 2018

As a compact, mixed-use, and walkable district near a high-quality transit station, transit-oriented development (TOD) has arisen as a sustainable form of urbanism to minimize automobile dependency and maximize ridership. Existing travel behavior studies in the context of TOD, however, are limited in terms of small sample size, lack of consistency in TOD classification, and failure to control for residential self-selection. This study examines various travel outcomes—vehicle miles traveled (VMT), auto trips, transit trips, and walk trips—in different types of station areas in eight U.S. metropolitan areas using cluster analysis and propensity score matching. Using cluster analysis with three built environment factors—activity density, land use diversity, and street network design (i.e., D variables)—this study classifies existing 549 station areas as TOD, transit-adjacent development (TAD), and Hybrid types. After controlling for residential self-selection, the result shows that a TOD motivates its residents to walk more and take transit more while driving less. The significant difference between TOD and TAD in both VMT and the number of automobile trips means that TOD makes the personal vehicle trips shorter (39% reduction) and fewer (35% reduction). Travel behaviors in the Hybrid type are also examined for the potential outcomes of gradual and practical changes.
Impact Assessment of Short-Term Work Zones on Intersection Capacity in New York City
Authors: Alshabibi Nawaf M. , Prassas Elena
Published: May 2018

New York City infrastructure is one of the oldest transportation infrastructures in the United States. Local street construction and short-term work zones are almost continuously planned events that affect the movement of traffic on city streets by requiring the closing of one or more lanes at intersections throughout NYC, and it is important to understand the effect on capacity due to such work. This paper looks at the effect of short-term work zones on the capacity of signalized intersections in New York City. Data was collected at five locations in New York City, both during the work zone and then again after the work zone was removed. Over 25 hours of video data was collected and reduced. It was found that at all locations, the saturation headway was smaller during the work zone compared to after the work zone was removed, that is, the saturation flow rate per lane increased during the work zone. This was an unexpected result. A possible reason for this is the increased traffic pressure that drivers feel when a lane is closed. Thus, although overall approach capacity does decrease because a lane is closed, it did not decrease as much as expected. The field values are then compared with those from two other models: the Highway Capacity Manual model and a model developed by Schroeder et al. It was found that both models underestimate the capacity of the approach.
Antithrombotic therapy in pediatric ventricular assist devices: Multicenter survey of the European EXCOR Pediatric Investigator Group
Authors: Miera Oliver , Schmitt Katharina L , Akintuerk Hakan , Boet Angele , Cesnjevar Robert , Chila Teresa , Fleck Thilo , Goldwasser Ranny , Guereta Luis G , Heineking Beatrice , Hoerer Juergen , Horke Alexander , Hsia Tain Y , Huebler Michael , Kansy Andrzej , Karimova Ann , Maruszewski Bohdan , Medrano Constancio , Pawlak Szymon , Reinhardt Zdenka , Romlin Birgitta , Sandica Eugen , Schmidt Florian , Schramm René , Schweiger Martin , Śliwka Joanna , Stiller Brigitte , Thul Josef , Amodeo Antonio
Published: May 2018

Objectives:

Mechanical circulatory support for pediatric heart failure patients with the Berlin Heart EXCOR ventricular assist system is the only approved and established bridging strategy for recovery or heart transplantation. In recent years, the burden of thromboembolic events has led to modifications of the recommended antithrombotic therapy. Therefore, we aimed to assess modifications of antithrombotic practice among the European EXCOR Pediatric Investigator Group members.

Methods:

We sent a questionnaire assessing seven aspects of antithrombotic therapy to 18 European hospitals using the EXCOR device for children. Returned questionnaires were analyzed and identified antithrombotic strategies were descriptively compared to “Edmonton protocol” recommendations developed for the US EXCOR pediatric approval study.

Results:

Analysis of 18 received surveys revealed substantial deviations from the Edmonton protocol, including earlier start of heparin therapy at 6–12 h postoperatively and in 50% of surveyed centers, monitoring of heparin effectiveness with aPTT assay, administering vitamin K antagonists before 12 months of age. About 39% of centers use higher international normalized ratio targets, and platelet inhibition is changed in 56% including the use of clopidogrel instead of dipyridamole. Significant inter-center variability with multiple deviations from the Edmonton protocol was discovered with only one center following the Edmonton protocol completely.

Conclusion:

Current antithrombotic practice among European EXCOR users representing the treatment of more than 600 pediatric patients has changed over time with a trend toward a more aggressive therapy. There is a need for systematic evidence-based evaluation and harmonization of developmentally adjusted antithrombotic management practices in prospective studies toward revised recommendations.
Sociospatial Practices of Hispanic Youth Navigating Their Labor Market Opportunities
Authors: Schuch Johanna Claire
Published: May 2018

Hispanic youth are entering the U.S. labor market in increasing numbers. Their experiences and outcomes can teach us about the degree to which Hispanic migrants and their children are successfully integrating into U.S. society. While we know about the disadvantages Hispanic immigrant youth face in securing professional careers, less is known about the strategies they use to navigate their labor market options in response to these obstacles and as a way to express their agency. Using data collected from interviews, questionnaires, mental maps, and journals with Hispanic immigrant youth, this article demonstrates the social and spatial strategies Hispanic immigrant youth employ to access work. Such strategies include leveraging institutional and familial connections, advertising their bilingualism, working close to home, and navigating stereotypes. Insight into these strategies can help educators, policy makers, and immigrant families determine how best to support Hispanic immigrant youth as they transition from school to work.
“Being a Presence to Each Other”: Adult Educators Who Foster Empowerment With Incarcerated Women
Authors: Baumgartner Lisa M. , Sandoval Carolyn L.
Published: May 2018

Our research explored the experiences of educators who teach in a gender-responsive program for women in a jail. We interrogated how educators fostered empowerment in their classes, what their motivations were for teaching in the program, and the tensions that existed for them when using emancipatory teaching practices in jail. Findings indicate that educators used Freirean concepts to foster empowerment, were motivated to share their knowledge, were motivated to counter dehumanization, and recognized their commonalities and privilege. Trust and agency created tensions while using an emancipatory pedagogy at a jail. Findings have implications for educators teaching marginalized populations.
Adolescent Academic Socialization: A Within-Group Comparative Analysis Among Mexican-Origin Families
Authors: Camacho-Thompson Daisy E. , Gonzales Nancy A. , Fuligni Andrew J.
Published: May 2018

Variability in parental academic involvement and socialization practices could explain academic disparities among adolescents. Academic socialization during adolescence is likely to vary based on students’ educational histories and ability levels. Thus, adolescents were purposively selected, from a larger longitudinal study, to vary in their grade point average (GPA) and academic tracking (e.g., Advanced Placement [AP]/honors, remedial). We examined 24 qualitative ecocultural family interviews with parents ( n = 12) and their Mexican-origin high school–attending children ( n = 12), conducted simultaneously but separately. Guided by the interpretative paradigmatic framework via thematic analysis, we examined practices in school, at home, and in the fostering of academic aspirations. Although families were met with low expectations from school personnel, we found variability in parents’ abilities to overcome challenges. At home, parents of low-achieving students reacted to unmet expectations during academic emergencies (e.g., risk for failing a class), while parents of high-achieving students reacted on a daily basis by incorporating communication regarding academics into the family’s routine. Although all parents aspired that their adolescents at least finish college, parents differed in their specific expectations of grades. Adolescents, in turn, differed in their own value of education. Understanding within-group differences in academic socialization practices may inform the way educators and interventionists work with families.
What Difference Does a Lawyer Make? Impacts of Early Counsel on Misdemeanor Bail Decisions and Outcomes in Rural and Small Town Courts
Authors: Worden Alissa Pollitz , Morgan Kirstin A. , Shteynberg Reveka V. , Davies Andrew L. B.
Published: May 2018

Recent court decisions and state legislation have highlighted the significance of ensuring that criminal defendants are represented by counsel at their first appearances in court, where judges make critical decisions on pretrial release, bail, and detention. Yet many jurisdictions do not routinely provide counsel to indigent defendants at this stage. We hypothesize that when defendants are represented by counsel at first appearance (CAFA), they are more likely to be released on recognizance, are less likely to have high bail set, and are consequently less likely to be jailed pending disposition. We explore the impact of lawyers’ presence by comparing pretrial decisions and bail outcomes across samples of misdemeanor cases in three rural counties in upstate New York: cases with and without CAFA. We find that these counties saw shifts in decisions or outcomes. We consider the implications of these findings for future research, court practices, and public policy.
Impact and Effectiveness of a Stand-Alone NRT Starter Kit in a Statewide Tobacco Cessation Program
Authors: Kerr Amy N. , Schillo Barbara A. , Keller Paula A. , Lachter Randi B. , Lien Rebecca K. , Zook Heather G.
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

To examine 2-week nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) starter kit quit outcomes and predictors and the impact of adding this new service on treatment reach.

Design:

Observational study of a 1-year cohort of QUITPLAN Services enrollees using registration and utilization data and follow-up outcome survey data of a subset of enrollees who received NRT starter kits.

Setting:

ClearWay Minnesota’s QUITPLAN Services provides a quit line that is available to uninsured and underinsured Minnesotans and NRT starter kits (a free 2-week supply of patches, gum, or lozenges) that are available to all Minnesota tobacco users.

Participants:

A total of 15 536 adult QUITPLAN Services enrollees and 818 seven-month follow-up survey NRT starter kit respondents.

Measures:

Treatment reach for all services and tobacco quit outcomes and predictors for starter kit recipients.

Analysis:

Descriptive analyses, χ2 analyses, and logistic regression.

Results:

Treatment reach increased 3-fold after adding the 2-week NRT starter kit service option to QUITPLAN Services compared to the prior year (1.86% vs 0.59%). Among all participants enrolling in QUITPLAN services during a 1-year period, 83.8% (13 026/15 536) registered for a starter kit. Among starter kit respondents, 25.6% reported being quit for 30 days at the 7-month follow-up. After controlling for other factors, using all NRT and selecting more cessation services predicted quitting.

Conclusion:

An NRT starter kit brought more tobacco users to QUITPLAN services, demonstrating interest in cessation services separate from phone counseling. The starter kit produced high quit rates, comparable to the quit line in the same time period. Cessation service providers may want to consider introducing starter kits to reach more tobacco users and ultimately improve population health.
Knowledge of Health Conditions Associated With Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake Is Low Among US Hispanic Adults
Authors: Park Sohyun , Ayala Guadalupe X. , Sharkey Joseph R. , Blanck Heidi M.
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

To examine associations between knowledge of health conditions and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake among Hispanic adults.

Design:

Quantitative, cross-sectional study.

Setting:

The 2015 Estilos survey data.

Participants:

One thousand US Hispanic adults (≥18 years).

Measures:

The outcome variable was frequency of SSB intake (regular soda, fruit drink, sports/energy drink, and sweetened coffee/tea drink). Exposure variables were knowledge of 6 SSB-related health conditions (weight gain, diabetes, dental caries, high cholesterol, heart disease, and hypertension).

Analysis:

Six multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios for consuming SSBs ≥3 times/day (high intake), in relation to knowledge of SSB-related health conditions.

Results:

Overall, 58% of Hispanic adults consumed SSBs ≥2 times/day and 36% consumed SSBs ≥3 times/day. Although most identified that weight gain (75%) and diabetes (76%) were related to drinking SSBs, only half identified this relation with dental caries (57%) and hypertension (41%). Even fewer identified high cholesterol (32%) and heart disease (32%) as related. In crude analyses, SSB intake was significantly associated with knowledge of the associations between SSBs and weight gain, dental caries, and heart disease; however, after adjusting for sociodemographics and acculturation, associations were no longer significant.

Conclusions:

Although SSB intake was very high, knowledge of SSB-related health conditions was low and was not related to high SSB intake among US Hispanic adults. Education efforts alone may not be adequate for Hispanic adults to change their behaviors.
Gender Differences in the Impact of North Carolina’s Early Care and Education Initiatives on Student Outcomes in Elementary School
Authors: Muschkin Clara G. , Ladd Helen F. , Dodge Kenneth A. , Bai Yu
Published: May 2018

Based on growing evidence of the long-term benefits of enriched early childhood experiences, we evaluate the potential for addressing gender disparities in elementary school through early care and education programs. Specifically, we explore the community-wide effects of two statewide initiatives in North Carolina on gender differences in academic outcomes in Grades 3 to 5, using administrative student data and information on variation in program availability across counties and over time. We find that although investments in early care and education programs produce significant gains in math and reading skills on average for all children, boys experience larger program-related gains than girls. Moreover, the greatest gains among boys emerge for those from less advantaged families. In contrast, the large and statistically significant reductions in special education placements induced by these early childhood program do not differ consistently by gender.
Archaeology and politics in China: Historical paradigm and identity construction in museum exhibitions
Authors: Shelach-Lavi Gideon
Published: May 2018

In China, as in many other modern and contemporary states, the past is often used to inform public opinions and legitimate the political regime. This article examines two examples of archaeological exhibitions in China: at the National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆) in Beijing and the Liaoning Provincial Museum (辽宁省博物馆) in Shenyang. It discusses the development and change over time in the content of these archaeological exhibitions, the way they were organized and presented to the public, and the explanations that accompanied the prehistoric artefacts. I argue that the way the past, and in particular the distant, prehistoric and proto-historic past, is presented in Chinese museums reveals a process of entrenchment of the standardized narrative of Chinese history, with a powerful sense of connection and continuity between the past, no matter how distant, and the present. I also argue that although the general outline of the historical trajectory of the ‘Chinese civilization’ is universally accepted, small variations in the way it is presented and the different emphases of the two exhibitions can inform us about various ways of constructing local and national identities in China during the 20th century and up to the current time.
Innovation policy in Russia and the development of university–industry linkages
Authors: Dezhina Irina
Published: May 2018

All the major science and innovation activity indicators for Russia have remained largely unchanged over the past 10–15 years. Expenditures on research and development (R&D) have stayed at a low level, with 70% of the funding provided by the federal government. During the last 7 years, the Russian government has introduced a number of instruments to improve research performance and stimulate closer cooperation between universities and companies. This article presents the results of a survey conducted in 2016 among 155 medium-sized technological companies with the purpose of identifying factors that encourage or hamper collaboration with universities in Russia. The survey revealed that the level of cooperation between companies and universities is relatively stable but insufficient. It is not low, especially in the area of educational activities, but it appears not to be growing. Companies often prefer to conduct R&D on their own, without outsourcing tasks to universities. Major problems that companies face in their attempt to partner with universities in R&D include (1) low levels of mutual understanding while conducting research projects; (2) unsatisfactory levels of training of graduate students; and (3) a lack of capability on the part of universities to solve specific scientific and technical problems quickly.
The estimation method of friction in unconfined compression tests of liver tissue
Authors: Yang Jing , Yu Lingtao , Wang Lan , Wang Wenjie , Cui Jianwei
Published: May 2018

In traditional unconfined compression tests, the friction between platform and specimen is often considered negligible or minimized by lubrication or other means. However, friction can affect the estimation of material parameters. The percentage difference in radial deformation was investigated in this study. A novel friction estimation method was established and verified using a finite element method. The proposed method was based on the radial deformation during the compression process. Three different hyperelastic material parameters of liver tissue were applied in the simulations. The hyperelastic parameters H1 were obtained by no-slip compression tests, while the others were extracted from the literature. The results showed that the percentage difference in radial deformation was mainly influenced by the friction coefficient and diameter-to-height ( d/ h) ratio of the specimen in unconfined compression tests. The percentage difference increased as the friction coefficient and d/ h increased. Different d/ h and friction coefficient values were tested to validate the proposed method, and the accuracy was estimated to exceed 86%. An optimization strategy for material parameters in unconfined compression tests was proposed accordingly.
Unsafe injecting practices, sexual risk behaviours and determinants of HIV among men who inject drugs: Results from Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance in India
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Sangal Bhavna , Ramanathan Shreena , Ammassari Savina , Venkatesh Srinivasa Raghavan
Published: May 2018

In India, while an overall reduction in HIV is achieved among most key populations, the continued higher prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWIDs) is an area of concern. This paper analyses unsafe injecting and sexual risk behaviours in male PWIDs according to HIV status and also examines the determinants of HIV infection in this high-risk group. Data from India’s Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance, conducted across 29 Indian states and Union Territories among 19,902 male PWIDs, were used. Informed consent was obtained and men aged 15 years or more, who used psychotropic substances or drugs in the past three months for non-medical reasons were recruited for the survey. Results from the multivariable analysis suggest that drug use debut at age 25 years or above (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.41, confidence interval [CI]: 1.05–1.88), engagement in drug use for a longer duration (AOR: 1.81, CI: 1.32–2.48), injecting three times or more per day (AOR: 1.53, CI: 1.1–2.12), sharing of needle/syringes (AOR: 1.34, CI: 1.02–1.76), self-reported sexually transmitted infections (AOR: 1.55, CI: 1.12–2.14) and higher self-risk perception for exposure to HIV (AOR: 2.08, CI: 1.58–2.75) increase the likelihood of HIV infection. Sustained higher prevalence, unsafe injecting and risky sexual practices are major challenges which may prevent India from reaching the ‘end of AIDS’ by 2030. This underscores the need for adoption of a tailored, evidence-driven HIV prevention approach that adequately addresses local needs to limit the spread of HIV within this population, and thereby prevents the onward transmission of HIV to the general population.
Fatal cryptococcal meningitis in an AIDS patient complicated with immune reconstitution syndrome refractory to prolonged amphotericin B treatment
Authors: Bandaranayake Thilinie D , Ogbuagu Onyema E , Mahajan Amit , Vortmeyer Alexander O , Villanueva Merceditas S
Published: May 2018

Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitous encapsulated environmental yeast that can cause severe central nervous system disease, primarily in immune compromised hosts. In patients with AIDS, the spectrum of cryptococcal central nervous system disease includes meningitis, cystic lesions, and mass-like cryptococcomas. We report a fatal case of meningitis and cerebritis caused by C. neoformans in an AIDS patient refractory to multiple courses of liposomal amphotericin B despite immune recovery with antiretroviral therapy. This case highlights ongoing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in the face of treatment failure for cryptococcal meningitis and reinforces the need for improved treatment approaches.
Secondary prophylaxis of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy in an HIV-positive woman
Authors: Dakshina Subathira , Miller Robert F , Tong Cheuk YW , Sarner Liat
Published: May 2018

A 39-year-old HIV-positive black African woman with previously treated cerebral toxoplasmosis experienced a foetal intra-uterine death due to congenital toxoplasmosis. This case demonstrates the complexities of screening for maternal toxoplasmosis in the context of pregnancy and HIV infection-related cell-mediated immunosuppression. Additionally, the case highlights the challenges in providing effective preventative and therapeutic drug options for congenital toxoplasmosis.
Sameness May Be a Natural Concept That Does Not Require Learning
Authors: Zentall Thomas R. , Andrews Danielle M. , Case Jacob P.
Published: May 2018

It has been assumed that when pigeons learn how to match to sample, they learn simple stimulus-response chains but not the concept of sameness. However, transfer to novel stimuli has been influenced by pigeons’ tendency to be neophobic. We trained pigeons on matching ( n = 7) and mismatching ( n = 8) with colors as samples and, with each sample, one color as the nonmatching comparison. We then replaced either the matching or the nonmatching stimulus with a familiar stimulus never presented with that sample. Results suggest that for both matching and mismatching, pigeons locate the stimulus that matches the sample: If the task involves matching, they chose it; if it involves mismatching, they avoid it. Thus, the concept of sameness is the basis for correct choice with both tasks. This finding suggests that sameness is a basic concept that does not have to be learned and may have evolved in many species, including humans.
Positioning control of hydraulic cylinder with unknown friction using on/off directional control valve
Authors: Jin Liyang , Wang Qingfeng
Published: May 2018

In this study, a prediction-based positioning control scheme is proposed for the hydraulic cylinder controlled by a solenoid operated on/off directional control valve. The discrete-valued input, low switching frequency and significant delay of directional control valve make the control problem very complex. Only a discrete-valued control input can be used here; meanwhile, the input has switching frequency constraint and time-delay. Existing methods such as pulse-width modulation control and sliding-mode control are not suitable for this problem, because chattering may arise due to the control input restrictions. The newly proposed prediction-based positioning control scheme consists of two parts: a switching law based on predictions of future states and learning algorithms which learn required predictive models online. According to accurate predictions, the switching law can control the hydraulic cylinder to target position in an optimal way, and chattering is avoided. Meanwhile, the required predictive models are identified by a generalized growing and pruning for radial basis function network and a recursive least square estimation algorithm in real time. Essentially, the problems caused by input restrictions, time-delay and model uncertainty are solved by the accurate identifications to some well-designed models. The control scheme is verified by physical experiments. Fast and accurate positioning control can be achieved for the hydraulic cylinder with unknown nonlinear friction.
Impact of Charismatic Leadership and Market Shares on IPO First-Day Returns: The Case of Technology Firms
Authors: Yeung Wing Him , Wu Yuanyuan , Liu Feiyuan
Published: May 2018

First-day returns of initial public offerings (IPOs) have always been an important topic in academic research. Previous literature generally attributes the first-day return of an IPO to the underpricing of the stock, and most studies emphasize on the market-level factors such as the hot market influence and people’s pursuit over IPOs based on the pre-selling market return data. Firm-level variations, on the other hand, are generally under investigated. This research investigates the variations across companies by focusing on two factors that previous studies have not fully articulated: charismatic leadership and market shares. Using logistic regression analysis and a sample of 92 firms in technology industries that went public in the USA during the period from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2014, we find that there is a statistically significant and positive relationship between charismatic leadership and first-day returns of IPOs, as well as between market shares and first-day returns of IPOs. Our study contributes to the IPO performance literature, and it provides practical implications on IPO management and investment.