bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of Climate Change on the Livelihood and Food Security of Small-Scale Fishers in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
Authors: Muringai Rodney T. , Naidoo Denver , Mafongoya Paramu , Lottering Shenelle
Published: October 2019

Small-scale fisheries play a significant role as a source of employment, livelihood strategy and contributor to food security. However, changes in climatic variables alter the productivity and distribution of marine and freshwater fish species, negatively affecting the livelihoods of fishery-dependent communities. This study seeks to identify small-scale fishers’ livelihoods and examine the impacts of climate change on livelihoods and food security of small-scale fishing households. The study was conducted in Sanyathi fishing basin in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe. The Sustainable Livelihood Approach framework of the Department for International Development was used to define the small-scale fishers’ livelihood assets and activities. The study employed a mixed-method approach for data collection. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions and observations were used to collect data from the small-scale fishers. The data collected were subjected to descriptive and bivariate analysis. The present results indicate that fishing is the community’s primary livelihood activity. More than 62% of fishermen stated that fishing revenue is declining, owing to declining fish catches. Of participants, 98% recognised food purchases as the primary source of food. Therefore, 78% of the small-scale fishers perceive their households to be food insecure due to declining incomes from fisheries. These findings show the need for policymakers and development agencies to formulate strategies that specifically target fishing communities whose livelihoods rely on natural ecosystems.
Unpacking Robert Spaemann’s Philosophical Contribution to the Brain Death Debate
Authors: Gardner Elinor
Published: October 2019

Questions of life and death are primarily philosophical questions, as philosopher Robert Spaemann argues. Spaemann argues that “brain death” is philosophically unsatisfactory as a definition of death, and as the exclusive criterion for determining death, for two main reasons: first, because it attempts to annul the basic perceptions of the ordinary person in regard to death. Second, because the cause of life and unity in a living being cannot be reduced to the brain. This essay is an explication of Spaemann’s contribution to the “brain death” question, which consists in illuminating the philosophical issues at stake.

This article presents Robert Spaemann’s philosophical case that “brain death” suffices neither as a definition of death nor as the sole criterion of death.
Dying from haemorrhagic cardiac tamponade – a case series
Authors: Sonwani Nagendra Singh , Ateriya Navneet , Kumar Arvind
Published: October 2019

Cardiac tamponade is a condition produced by the rapid accumulation of pericardial fluid, which restricts the filling of the heart. Often the forensic pathologist comes across different naturally occurring sudden deaths. Cardiovascular causes are the most common. Death due to cardiac tamponade can cause sudden cardiac death. Acute cardiac tamponade is almost invariably fatal, unless the pressure is relieved by removing the pericardial fluid, either by needle pericardiocentesis or surgical procedures. Cardiac tamponade is more commonly associated with cases of trauma, operative procedures, secondary to myocardial infarction or intra pericardial rupture of great vessels. Previous literature showed an association of cardiac tamponade with many other pathological conditions such as malignancy, central venous catheterisation, open heart surgery, dissecting aneurysm of the aorta, myocardial abscess, infective endocarditis, etc. We report a series of three cases where cardiac tamponade was given as the cause of death on autopsy secondary to post-myocardial infarction wall rupture.
Farmers’ adoption of agricultural innovations: A systematic review on willingness to pay studies
Authors: Olum Solomon , Gellynck Xavier , Juvinal Joel , Ongeng Duncan , De Steur Hans
Published: October 2019

Unlike most studies that focused on specific innovations, this study systematically analyzed farmers’ adoption of agricultural innovations in general. It reports willingness to pay (WTP; willingness to accept (WTA)) as a proxy for adoption, its determinants, applied methods, and statistical models. After searching and screening, 80 studies qualified for review. Majority ( n = 30) of studies focused on farmers’ WTP for innovations in agricultural water provision or environmental and crop protection ( n = 35), while the remaining studies handled crop or animal improvement innovations. Most studies were performed in developing countries, using stated preference methods for economic valuation, with 55% of the studies ( n = 44) applying contingent valuation compared to 39% taking choice modeling approach. While farmers are generally willing to pay premium for improvement in agriculture technologies, WTP (WTA) depends on the innovation (system). For example, premiums ranged from about 0.125 to 2 USD/m3 of water depending on water supply (e.g. ground vs. surface water). Furthermore, the determinants of farmers’ WTP can be grouped into sociodemographic, biophysical, technological, institutional, and behavioral factors. As illustrated by relatively high WTP, the review demonstrates that farmers embrace most innovations, regardless of the context and methods applied.
Numerical study of the impact of water injection holes arrangement on cavitation flow control
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Qingdian , Tang Tao , Lu Shengpeng , Yi Qi , Wang Xiaofang
Published: October 2019

A method of water injection to flow field using distributed holes on the suction surface of hydrofoil is presented in this article to control cavitation flow. Modified renormalization group k–ε turbulence model is coupled with full-cavitation model to calculate periodical cavitation patterns and the dynamic characteristics of the NACA66(MOD) hydrofoil. Water injection is found to be highly effective for cavitation suppression. The cavitation suppression effect of distributed regulation of jet holes and porosities along three-dimensional spanwise hydrofoil is also investigated. The appropriate porosities of single row spanwise jet holes and optimal jet position of double row jet holes are revealed for both cavitation suppression and good hydrodynamic performance. Double row jet holes setting in forward trapezoidal arrangement shows great potential for cavitation suppression and hydrodynamic performance. This research provides a method of water injection to flow field to actively control cavitation, which will facilitate development of engineering designs.
In situ measurement of the dynamic yarn path in a turbo ring spinning process based on the superconducting magnetic bearing twisting system
Authors: Hossain M , Sparing M , Espenhahn T , Abdkader A , Cherif C , Hühne R , Nielsch K
Published: October 2019

The yarn tension and balloon form are the most important physical process parameters to characterize the dynamic yarn path in ring spinning. The present research work focuses on the in situ measurement of yarn tension in different regions of the yarn path in a developed turbo ring spinning tester with a friction-free superconducting magnetic bearing (SMB) twisting system and at an angular spindle speed of up to 50,000 rpm. The influence of different parameters, such as angular spindle speeds (15,000–50,000 rpm), yarn counts (15–40 tex) and balloon control ring (one or multiple), were evaluated to identify the influence of acting forces, for example, centrifugal forces. The effects of these process parameters were analyzed statistically using an analysis of variance. The yarn tension between the delivery rollers and the yarn guide was measured using a modified one-roller tensile yarn tension sensor. The yarn tension between the yarn guide and the SMB system was determined with an already existing optical approach at a higher angular spindle speed. As the highest yarn tension theoretically occurs between the SMB system and the cop, it was estimated in this region by measuring the coefficient of friction between the yarn and the yarn guide using the friction module of the constant tension tester equipment. The maximum balloon diameter was determined from the recorded balloon form between the yarn guide and the SMB system with respect to different angular spindle speeds. The results provide valuable information about the highest possible spinnable speed and enable a better understanding of the dynamic yarn path in the SMB spinning system.
On the way to planet politics: from disciplinary demise to cosmopolitical coordination
Authors: Conway Philip R
Published: October 2019

From climatic chaos to mass extinction, from ‘geoengineering’ to unprecedented urbanisation, world politics has, in recent decades, become inescapably planetary. Recent discussions concerning ‘Planet Politics’ are, therefore, timely. However, the debate, to date, has been limited by a number of conceptual and political problems. In particular, an apparent disinclination to address serious differences as regards the authority of natural scientific knowledge with respect to collective ontologies raises the question of what is truly political in planetary politics. Drawing on Gayatri Spivak’s concept of ‘planetarity’ and Isabelle Stengers’ ‘cosmopolitics’, this intervention consists of a diagnosis, a method and an alternative. The diagnosis is that this debate has yet to constitute a workable starting point for the very thought processes, and political processes, that those involved demand. The method is simultaneously ‘forensic’ and ‘diplomatic’ – that is, it focuses on bringing undisclosed and semi-disclosed conflicts into the open while, furthermore, ‘thinking through the middle’ of established polemical positions, enabling new possibilities. The alternative, then, proposes to distinguish a cosmo politan agenda of global connectedness from a cosmo political process of situated coordination. Finally, it is argued that adding ‘planetary’ to our politics aptly, if counterintuitively, encapsulates the condition of ‘political multiplicity’. However, rather than lending weight to disciplinary consolidation, this encapsulation should serve to forge connections with problems of multiplicity of all sorts. That is, the purpose of planetary politics, as conceived herein, would be that of inventing speculative practices that maintain the possibility of unlikely alliances between disparate powers, and not only those of the nation state.
The Tipping Behavior and Motives of US Travelers Abroad: Affected by Host Nations’ Tipping Norms?
Authors: Lynn Michael , Brewster Zachary W.
Published: October 2019

Despite the size and interdisciplinary scope of the extant literature on domestic tipping behaviors, little research has been done on the tipping behaviors of tourists when traveling abroad. In response, this study presents results from a hypothetical scenario experiment indicating that tipping by US tourists follows the tipping norms of the visited nations and increases with future service, reciprocity, and altruism motives for tipping as well as with favorable attitudes toward the custom. National tipping norms did not moderate the effects of tipping motives but did moderate the effects of respondents’ attitude toward tipping. Specifically, the likelihood that tourists would tip increased with their positivity toward the practice, but significantly less so when tipping was customary and expected in the host country. Discussion focuses on the implications of these findings for the generalizability of previous tipping research and strategies for increasing tipping by foreign tourists.
The Future Strikes Back: Using Future Treatments to Detect and Reduce Hidden Bias
Authors: Elwert Felix , Pfeffer Fabian T.
Published: October 2019

Conventional advice discourages controlling for postoutcome variables in regression analysis. By contrast, we show that controlling for commonly available postoutcome (i.e., future) values of the treatment variable can help detect, reduce, and even remove omitted variable bias (unobserved confounding). The premise is that the same unobserved confounder that affects treatment also affects the future value of the treatment. Future treatments thus proxy for the unmeasured confounder, and researchers can exploit these proxy measures productively. We establish several new results: Regarding a commonly assumed data-generating process involving future treatments, we (1) introduce a simple new approach and show that it strictly reduces bias, (2) elaborate on existing approaches and show that they can increase bias, (3) assess the relative merits of alternative approaches, and (4) analyze true state dependence and selection as key challenges. (5) Importantly, we also introduce a new nonparametric test that uses future treatments to detect hidden bias even when future-treatment estimation fails to reduce bias. We illustrate these results empirically with an analysis of the effect of parental income on children’s educational attainment.
The Validity of the PICTS-SV and Its Effectiveness with Positive Impression Management: An Investigation in a Court-Mandated Substance Use Treatment Facility
Authors: Williams Margot M. , Rogers Richard , Hartigan Sara E.
Published: October 2019

Forensic practitioners are regularly called on to conduct highly consequential evaluations of risk for recidivism and violence. Accordingly, numerous specialized risk assessment measures have been developed to evaluate an array of relevant variables. As one conceptual approach, the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS) assesses criminal thinking as a dynamic criminogenic need with predictive validity beyond historical factors. Because of its high reading level, however, a simplified version (PICTS-SV) was recently developed. The current investigation sought to (a) examine the two versions’ direct concurrence and (b) test the PICTS-SV’s vulnerability to risk minimization (RM). Two separate studies recruited 150 participants from a court-mandated substance use treatment facility. Study 1 established the PICTS-SV’s concurrent validity with the PICTS, especially at the composite level. Study 2 observed its robust resistance to RM distortion, although some validity scale revisions appear warranted. Overall, these results support the PICTS-SV’s utility for informing effective interventions and accurate risk determinations.
Investigation of Oxidative Stress in Antrochoanal Polyp Etiology
Authors: Islamoglu Yuce , Kesici Gulin Gokcen , Canan Yagmur , Kale Hayati , Kara Özmen , Erel Ozcan , Babademez Mehmet Ali
Published: October 2019

Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) are benign lesions of the paranasal sinuses. Similarities between ACPs and nasal polyps have been previously investigated. However, oxidative stress has been implicated but not investigated in terms of the etiology of ACPs. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate oxidative stress in the etiology of ACPs. The study population comprised 93 patients divided into 3 groups. Group 1 consisted of 30 patients with ACPs. Group 2 consisted of 33 patients with nasal septal deviation. Group 3 comprised 30 healthy individuals. Venous blood was taken from all participants, and total thiol, native thiol, disulfide, and ischemic modified albumin (IMA) levels were evaluated. When the values of native thiol ( P = .097), disulfide ( P = .221), total thiol ( P = .140), and IMA ( P = .091) were compared, no significant differences were found among the 3 groups. While many studies have been conducted related to nasal pathologies and the role of oxidative stress in their etiologies, our study concluded that oxidative stress plays no role in ACP etiology.
Implication and Management of Incidental Oropharyngeal Papillomas—A Retrospective Case Series Review
Authors: Kim Daniel , Siegel Justin , Chouake Robert J. , Geliebter Jan , Zalvan Craig H.
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Incidental papillomas of the pharynx can be found while examining the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx for other disorders of the head and neck. Purpose of the study is to explore the location, biopsy protocol, and decision to perform office-based versus operative management via potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser when an oropharyngeal papilloma is discovered incidentally.

Methods:

A retrospective review of the senior author’s patient population was performed using Current Procedural Terminology and/or International Classification of Diseases codes to identify patients who had KTP laser removal of incidental oropharyngeal papillomas. Patients were included based on the incidental nature of the papilloma and confirmed pathology report of squamous papilloma. Demographics, presenting complaint, lesion location, pathological analysis, type of intervention, and outcomes were recorded. When available, human papillomavirus (HPV) subtype was noted.

Results:

A total of 26 cases were identified, 13 females and 13 males. The median age at time of surgery was 58 years (range: 21-77). The most common presenting symptoms were difficulty swallowing and throat pain. The most common locations were the base of tongue, uvula, tonsils, and the soft palate. Of the 26 patients, 23 patients received KTP laser ablation therapy as an office-based procedure, while the remaining 3 were performed under general anesthesia in the operating room. Only 5 patients had a recorded recurrence that required reoperation. There were no operative or postoperative complications. There were 16 biopsy samples tested for HPV, where 12 were negative for HPV and 4 were positive for HPV.

Conclusion:

Oropharyngeal papillomas, when present, can be found incidentally during examination of the oropharynx for other symptoms. Office-based biopsy and KTP laser is a safe and efficient means of identifying and removing most oropharyngeal papillomas.
Overstay and Readmission in Ear, Nose, and Throat Day Surgery—Factors Affecting Postanesthesia Course
Authors: Tolvi Morag , Lehtonen Lasse , Tuominen-Salo Hanna , Paavola Mika , Mattila Kimmo , Aaltonen Leena-Maija
Published: October 2019

Aims:

Many procedures in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) day surgery are carried out under local anesthesia in Finland, whereas many other countries use general anesthesia. We investigated overstay and readmission rates in local and general anesthesia at Helsinki University Hospital.

Material and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study on ENT (n = 1011) day surgery patients within a 3-month period using the hospital’s surgery database to collect data pertaining to anesthesia, overstays, readmissions, and contacts within 30 days of surgery.

Objectives:

We examined the effect of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, age, sex, type of procedure, and anesthesia type on overstay, contact, and readmission rates.

Results:

A multivariable logistic regression model included ASA class, age, sex, type of procedure, and anesthesia (local vs general). Sex, age, and type of procedure had an effect on the outcomes of overstay, readmission, or contact. With general anesthesia, 3.2% (n = 23) had an overstay or readmission compared to 1.4% (n = 4) after local anesthesia. This was mainly explained by the number of study outcomes in tonsillar surgery that was performed only in general anesthesia.

Conclusions:

Day surgery could be done safely using local anesthesia, as the number of study outcomes was no greater than in general anesthesia. Sex, type of procedure, and age affected the rate of study outcomes, but ASA class and anesthesia form did not. Our overstay, contact, and readmission rates are on the same level, or lower, than in international studies.
Evaluation of the Presence of Sensorineural Hearing Loss and the Relationship With Intraoperative Findings in Cholesteatoma
Authors: Gulustan Filiz , Yazici Zahide Mine , Sayin Ibrahim , Abakay Mehmet Akif , Gunes Selcuk , Akidil Ayse Oznur
Published: October 2019

We investigated whether cholesteatoma is associated with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and the effects of a lateral semicircular canal (LSCC) fistula, destruction of stapes, localization of cholesteatoma, and air–bone gap (ABG) size on SNHL. The charts of 159 patients who had received surgery for unilateral cholesteatoma were examined retrospectively. In all patients, air conduction and bone conduction (BC) thresholds in both ears were measured at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz. Differences in BC thresholds between ears with cholesteatoma and contralateral ears were calculated. Demographics, localization of cholesteatoma, presence of LSCC fistula, condition of stapes, and ABG size on the affected ear were evaluated. There were significantly greater BC thresholds in ears with cholesteatoma than in normal ears for each frequency. Comparing the average BC differences at the different cholesteatoma locations, there were significant differences between the tympanic cavity + all mastoid cell group and attic, attic + antrum, and tympanic cavity + antrum groups. The BC differences at 4000 Hz were significantly high in patients with LSCC fistula. There were no significant relationships between the condition of the stapes and BC differences at any frequencies. There were significant correlations between average ABG and BC threshold differences at all frequencies. A significant relationship was found between cholesteatoma and SNHL. Patients with advanced cholesteatoma had significantly higher levels of SNHL. The BC threshold differences increased with increases in the ABG.
The Role of the Parotid-Mastoid Fascia in Identification of the Facial Nerve Trunk During Parotidectomy
Authors: Micucci Steven B. , Cheng Siri Sunderi , Song Tara , Rasgon Barry
Published: October 2019

Objective:

We aim to describe the parotid fascia as a landmark that can help identify the immediately underlying facial nerve trunk.

Methods:

Dissection of the parotid fascia and identification of the facial nerve trunk were carried out on 8 fresh cadaveric parotid glands. The attachments and arrangement of the parotid gland and its fascia were evaluated and histologically assessed, with special attention to the fascia overlying the facial nerve trunk.

Results:

The parotid fascia envelops the posterior aspect of the parotid gland in an open-book fashion. Posteriorly, it connects to the anterior and medial aspect of the mastoid tip. Posterosuperiorly, it attaches to the inferior aspect of the tragal pointer. Directly medial to the fascia lies the facial nerve trunk.

Conclusion:

The parotid fascia, particularly the parotid–mastoid segment overlying the facial nerve trunk, can be utilized as an additional landmark of depth to help identify the facial nerve trunk during a parotidectomy in conjunction with other commonly used standard anatomic landmarks. The parotid fascia sling spans from the mastoid and tragal pointer to the parotid gland and can be easily palpated intraoperatively. Once the fascia is removed, the facial nerve trunk is identified.
The Relationship of Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex With Self-Reported Dizziness Handicap in Patients With Vestibular Deafferentation
Authors: Eravcı Fakih Cihat , Yılmaz Metin , Uğur Mehmet Birol , Tutar Hakan , Karamert Recep , Şansal Ebru , Göksu Nebil
Published: October 2019

The relationship between objective vestibular tests and subjective vestibular tests is a controversial topic. In this study, to contribute to this issue, the vestibulo-ocular reflex features and their relationship with balance perception at long-term follow-up in vestibular neurectomy (VN) and total labyrentectomy patients were evaluated. Prospectively, 19 VN and 18 labyrinthectomy patients were enrolled in this study. Patients underwent video head impulse test (VHIT) as objective vestibular test and dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) as subjective vestibular test when they attended to their control visit follow-up between March and September 2017. Lateral canal corrective saccades were classified as organized pattern and deorganized (scattered) pattern. In our results, the saccade pattern analysis (between organized and deorganized saccades) regarding the DHI scores gave P value as .039 for covert saccade pattern and .050 for overt saccade pattern. Therefore, we conclude that the presence of saccades, their patterns, and amplitudes provide extra information at assessing the results of the VHIT test, and the organized pattern of saccades is related to a stable vestibular system and better balance perception.
Diversity Management in Action: Chief Diversity Officer Adoption in America’s Cities
Authors: Cooper Christopher A. , Gerlach John D.
Published: October 2019

One of the primary ways cities signal the importance of diversity is to hire a chief diversity officer (CDO). Despite the importance of this position, we know remarkably little about the prevalence and predictors of CDO adoption in local governments. Using original data from the 250 largest cities in the United States, this article demonstrates that about one in four cities has hired a CDO. Further, the decision to hire a CDO is driven more by constituent demand than by city structure or resources. The article concludes by discussing the future of diversity management in America’s cities.
Benefits of music education to previously disadvantaged South African learners: Perspectives of music teachers in the greater Tshwane Metropolis
Authors: Swart Inette
Published: October 2019

This article focuses on the role of access to music education as an agent of social change and as an important way of empowering previously disadvantaged learners, putting this forward as an argument against the proposed downscaling of music in schools as advocated by the government. This narrative inquiry shed light on the perceptions of participating teachers associated with various music programs in the same larger geographical area on the benefits of music education to learners, including instilling discipline and a sense of purpose, general academic improvement, opportunities for social connection, creating opportunities for income generation and future employment, providing role models for children who often came from broken families, and safety and keeping children off the streets, to name but a few. Innovations necessitated by resource allocation constraints are perceived by participating teachers to include sharing a limited number of instruments, teaching in groups, converting general facilities into teaching venues and finding creative ways of teaching theory. The sustainability of these programs is perceived by participating teachers to depend on feeder programs, former students qualifying as teachers, and support and donations from one or more outside sources. It is argued that it is necessary to heed the voices of previously disadvantaged people who are now benefiting from improved access to opportunities and to listen to their opinions about the advantages of music education.
Racial discrimination, racism-specific support, and self-reported health among African American couples
Authors: McNeil Smith Shardé , Williamson Lillie D. , Branch Hafeezah , Fincham Frank D.
Published: October 2019

Racial discrimination is a part of the lived experience for African Americans, and it is widely found to have damaging consequences to their mental and physical health; yet, we know less about how romantic partners influence the degree to which racial discrimination can impinge on health outcomes. Using a dyadic approach with heterosexual African American couples ( N = 487), the current study examined the compensatory and stress-buffering effects of racism-specific support (RSS) from the partner on the associations between racial discrimination and one’s own and one’s partner’s self-reported mental, physical, and general health. We found that perceptions of RSS from the partner were associated with better mental and physical health for husbands and better physical and general health for wives, independent of the effects of their own and their partner’s racial discrimination. However, wives showed compromised mental health when their husbands perceived high levels of RSS. Furthermore, among wives who reported low levels of RSS from their partner, wives’ and husbands’ experiences of racial discrimination were associated with wives’ lowered mental health. These findings suggest that couple-level interventions for African Americans should pay specific attention to wives who may carry the burden of their own and their husbands’ experiences of racial discrimination.
The effect of angiopoietin-1 upregulation on the outcome of acute ischaemic stroke in rodent models: A meta-analysis
Authors: Moxon Joseph V , Trollope Alexandra F , Dewdney Brittany , de Hollander Catherine , Nastasi Domenico R , Maguire Jane M , Golledge Jonathan
Published: October 2019

Clinical studies report that low circulating angiopoietin-1 concentration at presentation predicts worse outcomes after ischaemic stroke. Upregulating angiopoietin-1 may therefore have therapeutic benefit for ischaemic stroke. This systematic review assessed whether upregulating angiopoietin-1 improved outcomes in rodent models of ischaemic stroke. Random-effects models quantified the effect of angiopoietin-1 upregulation on stroke severity in terms of the size of cerebral infarction and the extent of blood–brain barrier permeability. Eleven studies utilising rat and mouse models of ischaemic stroke fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses demonstrated that angiopoietin-1 upregulation significantly reduced cerebral infarction size (standardised mean difference: –3.02; 95% confidence intervals: –4.41, –1.63; p < 0.001; n = 171 animals) and improved blood–brain barrier integrity (standardized mean difference: –2.02; 95% confidence intervals: –3.27, –0.77; p = 0.002; n = 129 animals). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that angiopoietin-1 upregulation improved outcomes in models of transient, not permanent cerebral ischaemia. Six studies assessed the effect of angiopoietin-1 upregulation on neurological function; however, inter-study heterogeneity prevented meta-analysis. In conclusion, published rodent data suggest that angiopoietin-1 upregulation improves outcome following temporary cerebral ischaemia by reducing cerebral infarction size and improving blood–brain barrier integrity. Additional research is required to examine the effect of angiopoietin-1 upregulation on neurological function during stroke recovery and investigate the benefit and risks in patients.
Morphometric evaluation of aortic coarctation and collateral circulation using computed tomography in the adult population
Authors: Krupiński Maciej , Irzyk Małgorzata , Moczulski Zbigniew , Banyś Robert , Urbańczyk-Zawadzka Małgorzata
Published: October 2019

Background

Analysis of morphometric details of aortic coarctation and collateral circulation using computed tomography (CT) and its impact on clinical symptoms is a perspective which is missing in the published literature.

Purpose

To perform CT-based qualitative and quantitative evaluation of aortic coarctation and collateral circulation with reference to clinical symptoms.

Material and Methods

The study comprised 2022 patients who underwent CT angiography. If aortic coarctation was seen, the patients underwent evaluation of its anatomy and associated clinical symptoms.

Results

Aortic coarctation was found in 33 patients. Follow-up (median 2476 days; range 1692–3543) was performed in 31 (94%) individuals. In this group (median age 42 years; range 30–52.5 years), median stenosis at the site of coarctation was 70% (range 58–85%) of the lumen area, with 17 (55%) patients presenting with significant (≥70%) stenosis. Patients with significant stenosis had a greater right and left internal mammary artery diameter ( P = 0.0070 and P = 0.0114, respectively) than those with mild stenosis. Patients with significant coarctation stenosis revealed hypertension and headache more commonly than those with mild stenosis (17 vs. 9, P = 0.01 and 10 vs. 2, P = 0.02), respectively. In patients who underwent intervention, a decrease in prevalence of hypertension (19 vs. 0, P = 0.008) and headache (12 vs. 3, P = 0.010) were observed in the follow-up.

Conclusion

CT enables quantitative and qualitative evaluation of aortic coarctation anatomy, including stenosis at the site of coarctation, and collateral circulation. In adult patients with aortic coarctation, the prevalence of hypertension and headache is related to the degree of stenosis at the site of coarctation and decreases after intervention.
Reading risk: The practices, limits and politics of municipal bond rating
Authors: Omstedt Mikael
Published: October 2019

This article contributes to the growing literature on the relationship between local governments and financial markets by demystifying the municipal bond rating process. Since the Great Recession, the dynamics of municipal debt have moved to the forefront of American urban politics and the pursuit of high bond ratings has become a key mechanism constraining local policy autonomy. However, we know little about the actual practices of the rating agencies. Drawing on interviews conducted within these organizations, the article examines the criteria, processes and organizational practices that produce ratings. In conversation with calls for bridging the divide between political economy and techno-cultural approaches to markets, the paper shows how bond rating is structured by an ever-present tension between the need to understand localized investment risk in all its place-specific complexity while striving to fit that risk within the standardized grid of the rating scale. Further, the analysis highlights the imperative of budget flexibility through which indebted local governments are pushed into self-disciplining of their finances. As such, the article unpacks a particularly opaque area of local politics and furthers ongoing conversations between financial geography and urban political economy.
Transit Planners’ Transit-Oriented Development-Related Practices and Theories
Authors: Carlton Ian
Published: October 2019

Transit’s land use-shaping capability is an important justification and goal for fixed-guideway transit investment. While transit facility designs are expected to inform transit-oriented development (TOD), little research has examined how U.S. professionals incorporate TOD considerations into transit project planning. Through interviews, this study described how transit professionals identified TOD opportunities and how TOD considerations informed project designs across 19 U.S. regions, often substantially. However, the ways interviewees identified TOD opportunities were often inconsistent with the TOD literature, which may partially explain some transit planners’ unmet TOD expectations. Findings suggest that there is room for improvement in practitioners’ TOD-related transit planning practices.
A facile green approach for fabricating bacterial cellulose scaffold with macroporous structure and cell affinity
Authors: Zhong Meiling , Li Jinsheng , Tang Aoqi , Zhang Qi , Ji Dehui , Peng Mengxia , Zhang Richao , Xiong Guangyao , Wan Yizao , Fan Hongsong
Published: October 2019

Bacterial cellulose holds great promise for tissue engineering, but its application is greatly limited due to the lack of large pores and poor cell affinity. In this study, macroporous bacterial cellulose was fabricated through the dissolution of gelatin microspheres, which were incorporated with bacterial cellulose during bacterial cellulose fabrication. Then, gelatin was immobilized onto bacterial cellulose surface via procyanidins crosslinking. The results confirmed that the scaffolds possessed interconnected macroporous structure, high porosity, good water uptake ability, and good mechanical properties. The results of evaluation of cells showed that cells migrated to the inner of macroporous affinitive bacterial cellulose and displayed better spreading as well as proliferation than that on pure bacterial cellulose surfaces. The macroporous affinitive bacterial cellulose show potential as a scaffold for tissue engineering.
Weight Status and School Bullying Experiences in Urban China: The Difference Between Boys and Girls
Authors: Gong Zepeng , Han Ziqiang , Zhang Haibo , Zhang Guirong
Published: October 2019

This article examined the associations between weight status (body mass index [BMI] and perceived weight measures) and school bullying experiences (being bullied and bullying others) of children and adolescents in urban China. A national representative sample ( n = 3,675) of all types of pre-college schools from seven Chinese cities was employed for the analysis. Students from all grades in high school, vocational school, middle school, and primary grades 4 to 6 were surveyed. Height, weight, perceived weight status, and experiences of being bullied and bullying others were obtained. The results demonstrated that the objective weight status (BMI) was neither associated with being bullied overall by others nor associated with bullying others, but the subjective/perceived weight status was significantly related to being bullied. Regarding the specific forms of being bullied, underweight (measured by BMI) students were less likely to be cyberbullied, whereas obese (measured by BMI) students were more likely to be cyberbullied. Students who perceived themselves as slightly fat and too fat were more likely to be verbally bullied. Overweight and obese students were more likely to bully others physically and relationally, and the students who perceived themselves as too thin were positively associated with physically bullying others. Moreover, BMI had a role in the involvement in school bullying for boys, whereas perceived weight status had a role in school bullying involvement in girls. These results indicate that school bullying prevention and intervention should consider weight status, as well as gender differences.
Partners in showcasing history: Activating the land-grant engagement mission through collaborative exhibits
Authors: Bahde Anne , Edmunson-Morton Tiah , Fernández Natalia
Published: October 2019

The land-grant university in the United States holds a special role in higher education, enacting the ideals of public education, scientific research and direct engagement with the citizens of the state. In this article, three curators from a land-grant university discuss how their exhibit curation work fulfills these ideals through three case studies on exhibit collaborations. By examining lessons learned from their collaborations with students and faculty, campus organizations and community groups, the authors offer suggestions for navigating exhibit partnerships and planning for future collaborations.
Tribological and percolation properties of polypropylene/nanodiamond soot composites
Authors: Lebedev Oleg V , Bogdanova Olga I , Goncharuk Galina P , Ozerin Alexander N
Published: October 2019

The relationship between surface- and bulk-related physical and mechanical characteristics of polypropylene (PP)-based composites filled with nanodiamond soot (NDS) particles was investigated. The tribological properties of a composite were considered as surface properties. Wear and friction coefficient values were measured using a steel pin-on-composite disk testing procedure under the justified set of test parameters. Loading of NDS particles to the PP matrix resulted in a drastic increase in the composite’s wear resistance. A significant increase in friction coefficient and contact temperature was observed for the composites with NDS content below a certain value assumed to be the percolation threshold for the selected processing method and components used. After the percolation threshold is reached, the friction coefficient decreases sharply and returns to the value characteristic of a filler-free PP. The effects observed were attributed to changes in properties of polymer matrix and composite melt.
Lifestyle and occupational factors associated with participation in breast mammography screening among Western Australian women
Authors: Carey Renee N , El-Zaemey Sonia
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Various lifestyle and occupational factors have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, but there is limited research investigating the relationship between these factors and participation in breast cancer screening. This study explores the associations between lifestyle and occupational factors and participation in breast mammography screening among women living in Western Australia.

Methods

This study involved 1705 women aged 40 and older who participated as controls in the Breast Cancer Environment and Employment Study conducted in Western Australia. Self-reported questionnaire data were collected on participation in mammography screening, demographic factors, and lifestyle and occupational variables (smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, body mass index, use of contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy, breastfeeding, occupation, and participation in shift work). Multivariate modified Poisson regression was used to identify variables associated with ever participation in breast mammography screening.

Results

Just over 88% of women reported having ever had a mammogram. Likelihood of having ever had a mammogram was higher among women who had ever used hormone replacement therapy (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.07). Women who worked in clerical occupations (aPR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11) or home duties (aPR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.00–1.11) were also more likely to report having ever had a mammogram compared with those in professional or technical occupations.

Conclusions

Participation in mammography screening was found to differ by lifestyle and occupational factors. These results have important implications for public health strategies on improving screening participation.
Building the Ecosystem for Social Entrepreneurship: University Social Enterprise Cases in Singapore
Authors: Cheah Sarah , Ho Yuen-Ping
Published: October 2019

There has been limited study on the role of the startup ecosystem in social entrepreneurship. This article addresses the gap by applying a theoretical framework of startup ecosystem to two social enterprises originating from a Singapore university, examining how they engage with stakeholders to create social impact. WateRoam Pte Ltd is a water innovation startup that deploys cost-effective water filtration solutions to rural communities and disaster-hit locations. Tware is a wearable technology startup with a range of therapeutic products for individuals with autism, stress or anxiety. The two cases provide insights on the ecosystem for social ventures in Singapore. The Finance domain is identified as a potential area of improvement, as there is uncertainty on the appropriate growth trajectory for funding. University incubation and mentor networks are found to be pivotal in extending the Markets domain. Finally, this study highlights the Supports domain in the form of university R&D facilities and accelerator programmes that have been instrumental in strengthening connections. Extending beyond the university context, it is evident that infrastructural resources in the ecosystem are crucial. Policymakers may draw on the experience of countries, like Israel, which have successfully built such support facilities to nurture innovation-based social enterprises.
Impact of Service Innovation on Customer Satisfaction: An Evidence from Pakistani Banking Industry
Authors: Kanwal Rimsha , Yousaf Salman
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study is to appraise the linkage between service innovation (SI), customer value creation (CVC), and customer satisfaction (CS) with a specific focus on the Pakistani banking sector. In addition, the study evaluates the moderating role of brand equity (BE) fit between SI and CS. A survey is conducted on 250 customers from commercial banks in Pakistan and scales were acquired from past literature. The study showed that CVC mediates the relationship between SI and CS. Therefore, SI must create value for their customers in order to enhance CS. Moreover, BE has a partial positive moderation effect on the relationship bewteen SI and CS. By relating to the findings, managers of firms should focus on SI that adds to or create holistic value for their customers, which ultimately increase the CS level. This study relies on two theories, which include signaling theory and expectation disconfirmation theory to explain how SI in Pakistani banking sector creates customer value which achieves CS. The other uniqueness of the study is that it will be helpful for researchers by giving baseline regarding BE effect as a moderator between SI and CS in Pakistani banking industry.
ADHD Is Associated With a Widespread Pattern of Risky Behavior Across Activity Domains
Authors: Shoham Rachel , Sonuga-Barke Edmund , Yaniv Ilan , Pollak Yehuda
Published: October 2019

Objective: ADHD has been linked to higher engagement in risky behaviors in circumscribed domains such as dangerous driving, substance abuse, and gambling. This study tests whether ADHD is associated with a pervasive tendency to engage in risky behavior across a spectrum of activities and domains, and whether this tendency is driven by comorbid disorders. Method: A sample of 97 adults with ADHD and 103 typically developing controls completed a self-report questionnaire measuring the likelihood and frequency of engaging in a broad range of risky behaviors. ADHD, comorbid psychiatric disorders, and demographic variables were extensively assessed using standardized instruments. Results: Participants with ADHD reported a pervasive tendency to engage in risky behaviors across multiple activities. This tendency was associated with ADHD over and above the contribution of comorbid psychiatric disorders. Conclusion: These results suggest that ADHD is uniquely linked to a pervasive pattern of engagement in risky behaviors.
Test–Retest Reliability of the 25-item version of Wender Utah Rating Scale. Impact of Current ADHD Severity on Retrospectively Assessed Childhood Symptoms
Authors: Lundervold Astri J. , Vartiainen Henna , Jensen Daniel , Haavik Jan
Published: October 2019

Objective: To investigate test–retest reliability of the 25-item version of Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS-25) and factors influencing retrospective reports of childhood behavior in adults with ADHD. Method: Eighty-five adults with ADHD and 189 controls completed the WURS-25 and the adult ADHD Self-Rating Scale (ASRS) at two time points (mean interval = 7 years) and provided information about dyslexia, somatic, and psychiatric disorders. Results: The correlation between WURS-25 scores at the two time points was strong, and reports from 60% of the adults with ADHD showed no change in severity level. Reports on the WURS-25 were positively associated with current ADHD symptoms at both time points and the presence of dyslexia and mood disorders, with the strongest association found among adults reporting the most severe WURS-25 score. Conclusion: Although our study showed an acceptable test–retest reliability of WURS-25, the substantial contribution from current ADHD symptoms to the WURS scores emphasizes the importance of collateral information from family members and others who knew the adult in childhood.
Intergovernmental Costs of Political Gridlock: Local Government Cash Flow Smoothing during State Budgetary Delays
Authors: Yang Lang (Kate)
Published: October 2019

Political gridlock in state legislature often leads to a failure in adopting a budget by the start of a fiscal year. This article examines the intergovernmental implication of late state budgets, specifically the cash management problem faced by localities during the stalemate. Without legislative appropriations, the state government could delay expected transfers and payments to localities. Late intergovernmental transfers may force localities to smooth out cash flow for continued service provision through short-term borrowing. Using municipal bond market data, this article finds that when the state budget is late, the average locality’s likelihood of issuing short-term debt increases by 61 percent among those with end-of-fiscal-year short-term debt outstanding experience, and the amount of debt issuance increases by 76 percent. As short-term debt carries interest costs, state’s political gridlock and policy inactions impose direct costs on local governments.