bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prominent Enhancement of Cisplatin Efficacy with Optimized Methoxy Poly(ethylene glycol)-Polycaprolactone Block Copolymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Yen Ying-Tzu , Wang Xinyue , Zhang Huan , Wang Chun , Lin Zitong , Xie Chen , Liu Qin , Wang Lifeng , Yu Lixia , Li Xie , Lv Xin , Liu Baorui , Li Rutian
Published: June 2020

Chemotherapy has been one of the major standard treatments for a variety of cancers. cis-Dichlorodiamminoplatiunum (II) (cisplatin, CDDP), as one of the anticancer agents, demonstrated excellent efficacy against tumor and has been an indispensable component in chemotherapy, chemoradiation,
chemo-molecular targeted therapy and chemo-immunotherapy. However, its therapeutic concentration was limited since its inevitable toxicity. Previously, we have constructed CDDPloaded nanoparticles (NPs) with mixture of poly(ethyleneglycol)-polycaprolactone (PEG-PCL) and polycarprolactone (HOPCL)
by a facile method. The most optimal proportion of the two copolymers was selected through a series of physical, chemical, cytological and histological evaluations. In the present study, we explored the mechanisms of NPs and observed the in vivo antitumor effect after administrating CDDP-loaded
PEG-PCL NPs. Positron emission tomography as well as computed tomography (PET/CT) were adopted for detecting tumoral metabolic activity. Images from fluorescence microscope revealed superior cellular uptake of CDDP-loaded NPs with rhodamine B aggregated intracellularly in cancer cells. Similar
apoptotic rates between free CDDP group and CDDP-loaded NPs group was measured by flow cytometry. Tumor volumes and murine weights confirmed the superiority of CDDP-loaded NPs in therapeutic efficacy as compared with free CDDP. Blood tests showed milder side effects in CDDP-loaded nanoparticle
group. PET/CT images illustrated less uptake intensity of FDG in mice received CDDP-loaded NPs than free CDDP. Our results suggest that PEG-PCL/PCL NPs could be a promising antitumor drug carrier for CDDP delivery with solid efficacy and minor side effects.
Characterizing Thunderstorm Gust Fronts near Complex Terrain
Authors: Luchetti Nicholas T. , Friedrich Katja , Rodell Christopher E. , Lundquist Julie K.
Published: June 2020

Fire safety, aviation, wind energy, and structural-engineering operations are impacted by thunderstorm outflow boundaries or gust fronts (GFs) particularly when they occur in mountainous terrain. For example, during the 2013 Arizona Yarnell Hill Fire, 19 firefighters were killed as a result of sudden changes in fire behavior triggered by a passing GF. Knowledge of GF behavior in complex terrain also determines departure and landing operations at nearby airports, and GFs can induce exceptional structural loads on wind turbines. While most examinations of GF characteristics focus on well-organized convection in areas such as the Great Plains, here the investigation is broadened to explore GF characteristics that evolve near the complex terrain of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Using in situ observations from meteorological towers, as well as data from wind-profiling lidars and a microwave radiometer, 24 GF events are assessed to quantify changes in wind, temperature, humidity, and turbulence in the lowest 300 m AGL as these GFs passed over the instruments. The changes in magnitude for all variables are on average weaker in the Colorado Front Range than those typically observed from organized, severe storms in flatter regions. Most events from this study experience an increase in wind speed from 1 to 8 m s−1, relative humidity from 1% to 8%, and weak vertical motion from 0.3 to 3.6 m s−1 during GF passage while temperature drops by 0.2°–3°C and turbulent kinetic energy peaks at >4 m2 s−2. Vertical profiles reveal that these changes vary little with height in the lowest 300 m.
“Better issues to focus on”: Transgender Microaggressions as Ethical Violations in Therapy
Authors: Morris Ezra R. , Lindley Louis , Galupo M. Paz
Published: June 2020

Negative experiences in healthcare settings have been linked to decreased treatment satisfaction and reduction of future help-seeking behaviors among transgender individuals. The present study used gender-identity based microaggressions as a model for understanding the client–therapist relationship. Using a qualitative approach, we investigated instances of microaggressions from mental health providers as experienced by 91 adults who identified as transgender or gender diverse. Participants completed an online survey and described instances of microaggressions directed towards them from mental health providers. Thematic analysis resulted in four therapy-salient themes: Lack of Respect for Client Identity, Lack of Competency, Saliency of Identity, and Gatekeeping. Our discussion of the results focuses on the examination of microaggressions as ethical guideline violations. We discuss methods to improve the practical application of ethical standards to counseling with transgender clients. Implications for practice, training, and future research are also discussed.
Interactions Between Resting Heart Rate and Childhood Risk Factors in Predicting Convictions and Antisocial Personality Scores
Authors: Farrington David P.
Published: June 2020

This article analyzes data collected in the Cambridge Study in Delinquent Development, which is a prospective longitudinal study of 411 London males from Ages 8 to 61. It aims to investigate interactions between Age 8 and Age 10 psychosocial risk factors and a biological factor (resting heart rate), measured at Age 18, in predicting convictions up to Age 61 and high antisocial personality scores at Ages 32 and 48 (combined). The present analyses suggest that a high resting heart rate acted as a protective factor against harsh parental discipline and a depressed mother, or conversely that these childhood risk factors predicted antisocial outcomes only when they coincided with a low resting heart rate.
Comparison of Ceftriaxone and Antipseudomonal β-Lactam Antibiotics Utilized for Potential AmpC β-Lactamase-Producing Organisms
Authors: Peters David M. , Winter Jessica B. , Droege Christopher A. , Ernst Neil E. , Liao Siyun
Published: June 2020

Background: Induction of antibiotic resistance is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in AmpC β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae. The use of ceftriaxone is controversial for treatment of these organisms due to concerns for inducible resistance. This study was designed to compare treatment failure rates between ceftriaxone and antipseudomonal β-lactam antibiotics when used as definitive therapy for organisms most commonly associated with chromosomal AmpC β-lactamase production. Methods: A retrospective, single-center cohort study was performed enrolling patients hospitalized with monomicrobial Enterobacter, Citrobacter, or Serratia spp. infections. The primary objective compared proportion of treatment failure between groups. All patients received either ceftriaxone or an antipseudomonal β-lactam alone within 24 hours of culture finalization, and with a duration of at least 72 hours for definitive treatment. Treatment failure was defined as either clinical failure (abnormal white blood cell count or temperature on day 7 or 14 post-antibiotics) or microbiologic failure (regrowth of the same organism at same site within 14 or 21 days). Results: Of 192 total patients, treatment failure was observed in 24/71 patients (34%) receiving ceftriaxone and in 42/121 patients (35%) receiving antipseudomonal β-lactam ( P = .98). No difference was observed between clinical or microbiologic failure rates between groups. The ceftriaxone group had significantly more patients undergoing treatment for urinary tract infections (51% vs 17%, P < .001), but treatment failure rates remained similar between groups when comparing infections of all other sources. Conclusion: Ceftriaxone has comparable treatment failure rates to antipseudomonal β-lactams for susceptible Enterobacteriaceae infections and may be considered as a therapeutic option. Further, prospective research is needed to validate optimal dosing and application in all sites of infection.
The effect of a mental health promotion program on Korean firefighters
Authors: Won Geun Hui , Lee Jin Hyeok , Choi Tae Young , Yoon Seoyoung , Kim So Yeun , Park Ju Hyun
Published: June 2020

Background:

There is worldwide interest in the mental health of firefighters, since they are more prone to exposure to traumatic stress and psychiatric disorders.

Aims:

This study aimed to assess their mental health and provide individualized support to local firefighters through a mental health promotion program.

Method:

Eighteen hundred and fifty-nine active Korean firefighters in 2015 and 2017 (502 and 1,357, respectively) participated in the ‘Visiting Counselling Centre for Firefighters’ program commissioned by the National Fire Agency. The program consisted of self-administered questionnaires, a group education session, an individual counseling session for every participant, four counseling sessions for certain participants and additional brief intensive counseling (BIC). We administered the Post-traumatic stress disorder Checklist (PCL), Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Scale for Suicidal ideation (BSS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Korean version of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-K) and the abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) before and after the program. Additional analysis was performed to determine whether BIC participation further improved the psychopathological outcome.

Results:

The participants showed meaningful improvement in all psychopathological scales; the PCL, BDI, BAI, BSS, ISI, AUDIT-K and WHOQOL-BREF scores all significantly improved. Meanwhile, BIC participation improved certain psychopathological symptoms at a higher degree; the BDI, BAI, BSS and AUDIT-K scores significantly improved.

Conclusion:

The mental health promotion program improved the mental health of the participating active firefighters in Korea. Meanwhile, BIC participation improved certain psychopathological symptoms at a higher degree. A comprehensive approach for supporting the mental health of firefighters should be considered.
Experimental analysis and mechanical characterization of Al 6061/alumina/bagasse ash hybrid reinforced metal matrix composite using vacuum-assisted stir casting method
Authors: Chandla Nagender Kumar , Yashpal  , Kant Suman , Goud MM , Jawalkar CS
Published: June 2020

This experimental analysis aimed to fabricate low cost, lightweight metal matrix composite using Al 6061 as matrix material and alumina (Al2O3) and bagasse ash as reinforcing material through stir casting process. In this process one cast of single reinforced composite (Al 6061/5 wt% Al2O3) and three casts of hybrid reinforced composite (Al 6061/5 wt% Al2O3/ 4, 6, 8 wt% bagasse ash) were developed and processed as per ASTM standards followed by mechanical (micro-hardness, ductility, compression, tensile, and impact strength), physical (density and porosity), and microstructure (optical and SEM microscopy) characterization. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength, hardness, and compressive strength showed good improvements in the manufactured hybrid reinforced metal matrix composite (HRMMC) in comparison with the single reinforced metal matrix composite (SRMMC). The tensile strength and hardness of developed composite increased continuously with an increase in bagasse ash contents up to 6 wt% having maximum increment of 9.09% (tensile) and 16.5% (hardness) and thereafter both decreased for 8 wt% of bagasse ash, respectively. The results of impact strength and ductility of Al 6061/Al2O3/bagasse ash showed marginal reduction, as the wt% of reinforcements increased. It was found that the density of HRMMC was less than the SRMMC and it decreased with increasing wt% of reinforcements however, the composite contained some porosity percentage (max. value 2.26%), which increased as the wt% of reinforcement increased. The microstructure analysis showed fair distribution with good interface bonding up to 6 wt% bagasse ash.
Multiple Sources of Aging Attitudes: Perceptions of Age Groups and Generations From Adolescence to Old Age Across China, Germany, and the United States
Authors: Weiss David , Zhang Xin
Published: June 2020

Emerging evidence suggests that people not only categorize themselves and others based on age but also in terms of their generational membership. This cross-cultural study compared attitudes and stereotypes toward age and generational groups across the life span in China, Germany, and the United States including 1,112 participants between 18 and 86 years of age. We asked younger, middle-aged, and older respondents to rate either six age groups (e.g., adolescents, young adults, middle-aged adults, young-old, older, and old-old adults) or six matching generational groups (e.g., Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, Baby Boomer, Silent Generation, and Greatest Generation) on various characteristics (e.g., happy, competent, selfish). Consistent with our hypotheses, the results demonstrate that across all three countries older generations were perceived consistently more positive, whereas older age groups were perceived as less positive. These findings suggest that generations represent a source of positive regard and high social status in later life across different countries with different historical backgrounds and cultures.
Keep Your (Horse) Hair On? Experimental Evidence on the Effect of Exposure to Legitimising Symbols on Diffuse Support for the High Court
Authors: Nielsen Ingrid , Robinson Zoe , Smyth Russell
Published: June 2020

Positivity theory posits that the courts rely on powerful legitimising symbols—such as elaborate judicial attire, honorific forms of address and imposing courtroom design—to ensure legitimacy in the eyes of the public in the absence of an electoral mandate. The argument is that such legitimising symbols evoke images of learning and pageantry and create the presumption that the process by which the decision was made was fair. Typically, positivity theory has been tested by examining whether people who have a greater awareness or knowledge of the courts express higher diffuse support for their decisions. Yet, such an approach assumes that those who know more about the courts will have greater exposure to their legitimising symbols. It does not directly test if exposure to the courts’ legitimising symbols causes people to be more acquiescent with decisions with which they disagree. In this article we use a survey-based experiment to examine if exposure to the legitimising symbols of the High Court makes people more willing to accept decisions of the Court with which they disagree. We assess whether the decision of the High Court Justices to simplify their attire, including, since 1988, ceasing to wear wigs when sitting on the Bench, has adversely affected the Court’s institutional legitimacy by removing some of the mystique associated with the decision-making process. We find that exposure to the Court’s legitimising symbols is associated with higher acquiescence with decisions which people disagree with, but the Court’s decision to simplify the Justices’ attire has not adversely affected diffuse support for its decisions. Our findings are important because the Court is reliant on maintaining legitimacy to enforce the rule of law. Our results speak directly to how the Court can best take steps to increase its institutional legitimacy in the eyes of the public.
Do I Really Need to Go and See Somebody? Black Women’s Perceptions of Help-Seeking for Depression
Authors: Nelson Tamara , Shahid Naysha N. , Cardemil Esteban V.
Published: June 2020

Black women are among the most undertreated groups for depression in the United States. Few studies have addressed perceptions of help-seeking for depression among Black women. In this study, we interviewed 30 Black women and explored the help-seeking process for depression vis-a-vis social constructivism, intersectionality theory, and the Strong Black Woman (SBW) role, a gendered and racialized role consisting of adherence to strength through independence, emotion regulation, and caretaking. Qualitative analysis revealed that despite positive attitudes toward help-seeking, many participants declined or hesitated to seek treatment. We identified three themes that informed the help-seeking process: (a) You should see somebody; I just would not; (b) Do I really need to go and see somebody; and (c) Self-care despite what others may say. With regard to the influence of the SBW role, we also identified three themes: (a) Masking or ignoring pain, (b) Inability to ask for help, and (c) Lack of self-care. Our findings emphasized the importance of considering how the SBW role may be associated with help-seeking for depression among Black women.
Moving sliding mode controller for overhead cranes suffering from matched and unmatched disturbances
Authors: Gu Xiutao , Xu Weimin
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a novel time-varying gain extended state observer (ESO)-based moving sliding mode control method is proposed for anti-sway and positioning control of two-dimensional underactuated overhead cranes. The designed moving sliding mode surface can adjust its slope in real time according to the state variable errors; in addition, a dynamic exponential term is added into the moving sliding mode surface so as to drive any initial state variable errors into the sliding surface rapidly, and thereby the robustness of crane systems is improved. Then, a chattering-free reaching law is designed to realize fast convergence of the system state errors, and the input is modelled as a saturated one due to the fact the motor torque is bounded and the control law and adaptive updating law of switching gain are derived in the sense of Lyapunov function, so the stability can be guaranteed even under the input saturation. Moreover, to suppress the matched and unmatched disturbance occurring in crane dynamic systems, a time-varying gain ESO is constructed to estimate the lumped disturbance, then the estimated value is used for feedforward compensation to establish the controller. Finally, the simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Petri net-based voltage control strategy under false data injection attack
Authors: Fu Rong , Xu Yue , Tang Yi , Wang Qi
Published: June 2020

With the increase in connectivity and automation of smart grids, the scale and complexity of them has multiplied, which increases the opportunities for cyber-attacks in smart grids. For the problems where the power system cannot be detected in time and the corresponding measures cannot be taken in time, this paper proposes a voltage control strategy based on Petri nets and event triggering mechanism. The time and probability of success of an attack can affect the assessment of its consequences. In order to understand the influence of attack on power system, the corresponding modeling method based on Petri nets is given. Adding event trigger mechanism to the voltage control strategy using on-load tap-changer can effectively control the voltage fluctuation of power system in time.
Toward the Establishment of State Licensure for Orientation and Mobility Specialists
Authors: Hill M.-M. , Hill E.W. , LeBous C.
Published: June 2020

The concept of state licensure for orientation and mobility specialists was first discussed at the 1986 International Conference of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). This article discusses the development of state licensure by AER, subsequent efforts to obtain licensure in Tennessee, and a strategy for pursuing state licensure in other states.
Circulating microRNAs vs. aortic diameter in bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy
Authors: Naito Shiho , Petersen Johannes , Sequeira-Gross Tatiana , Zeller Tanja , Reichenspurner Hermann , Girdauskas Evaldas
Published: June 2020

There is growing clinical need and interest to implement novel risk prediction tools in bicuspid aortic valve-associated proximal aortic disease, so-called bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy. Inherent limitations of the diameter-based risk stratification for adverse aortic events in bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy patients have recently been recognized. Therefore, alternative diagnostic tools and subsequent adjustments in the treatment guidelines are urgently needed. Herein, we summarize the current evidence on recent diagnostic developments to improve risk stratification in bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy, including circulating microRNAs as biomarkers to predict the progression of aortic disease.
Reactive sampling-based path planning with temporal logic specifications
Authors: Vasile Cristian Ioan , Li Xiao , Belta Calin
Published: June 2020

We develop a sampling-based motion planning algorithm that combines long-term temporal logic goals with short-term reactive requirements. The mission specification has two parts: (1) a global specification given as a linear temporal logic (LTL) formula over a set of static service requests that occur at the regions of a known environment, and (2) a local specification that requires servicing a set of dynamic requests that can be sensed locally during the execution. The proposed computational framework consists of two main ingredients: (a) an off-line sampling-based algorithm for the construction of a global transition system that contains a path satisfying the LTL formula; and (b) an on-line sampling-based algorithm to generate paths that service the local requests, while making sure that the satisfaction of the global specification is not affected. The off-line algorithm has four main features. First, it is incremental, in the sense that the procedure for finding a satisfying path at each iteration scales only with the number of new samples generated at that iteration. Second, the underlying graph is sparse, which implies low complexity for the overall method. Third, it is probabilistically complete. Fourth, under some mild assumptions, it has the best possible complexity bound. The on-line algorithm leverages ideas from LTL monitoring and potential functions to ensure progress towards the satisfaction of the global specification while servicing locally sensed requests. Examples and experimental trials illustrating the usefulness and the performance of the framework are included.
Trans-arterial chemoembolization with degradable starch microspheres (DSM-TACE) versus selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) in multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Auer Timo A , Jonczyk Martin , Collettini Federico , Marth Adrian Alexander , Wieners Gero , Hamm Bernd , Gebauer Bernhard
Published: June 2020

Background

To date there is no therapy consensus in patients with multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma (mHCC).

Purpose

To compare outcome of trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with degradable starch microspheres (DSM-TACE) versus selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) in mHCC.

Material and Methods

In this single-center study, 36 patients without portal vein invasion, treated between May 2014 and May 2018, were enrolled retrospectively. Eighteen consecutive patients received DSM-TACE and were matched by age, gender, BCLC stage, Child-Pugh status, and tumor volume and 18 patients underwent SIRT. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and local tumor control (LTC) were evaluated. Toxicity profiles for both therapies were also evaluated and compared.

Results

In the entire collective, median OS was 9.5, PFS 5.0, and LTC 5.5 months. Subgroup analysis revealed an OS of 9.5 months in both groups ( P = 0.621). PFS was 6 months for the SIRT and 4 months for the DSM-TACE cohort ( P = 0.065). Although not significantly, LTC was lower (4 months) in the SIRT compared to the DSM-TACE cohort (7 months; P = 0.391). When DSM-TACE was performed ≥3 times (n = 11), OS increased, however without statistical difference compared to SIRT, to 11 months, PFS to 7 months, and LTC to 7 months. When DSM-TACE was performed <3 times (n = 7), OS, PFS, and LTC decreased (5 months, P = 0.333; 2 months, P = 0.047; 2 months, P = 0.47). Toxicity profiles and adverse event analysis only revealed a significant difference for nausea and vomiting (more frequent in the SIRT cohort, P = 0.015), while no other parameter showed a significant difference ( P > 0.05).

Conclusion

DSM-TACE might be an alternative to SIRT in multifocal HCC patients as OS, PFS, and LTC did not differ significantly and toxicity profiles seem to be comparable.
Free-breathing contrast-enhanced upper abdominal MRI in children: comparison between Cartesian acquisition and stack-of-stars acquisition with two different fat-suppression techniques
Authors: Kim Jeong Rye , Yoon Hee Mang , Cho Young Ah , Lee Jin Seong , Jung Ah Young
Published: June 2020

Background

Respiratory artifacts impair image quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in children who cannot hold breath during MRI examination.

Purpose

To compare the quality of free-breathing contrast-enhanced 3D T1-weighted (T1W) images of the upper abdomen in children using Cartesian acquisition (Cartesian eTHRIVE), stack-of-stars acquisition with spectral fat suppression (3D VANE eTHRIVE), and stack-of-stars acquisition with fat suppression using modified Dixon (3D VANE mDixon).

Material and Methods

Pediatric patients (aged <19 years) who underwent whole-body MRI with free-breathing contrast-enhanced T1W axial scans of upper abdomen using Cartesian eTHRIVE, 3D VANE eTHRIVE, and 3D VANE mDixon were enrolled. Image quality parameters were assessed including overall image quality, hepatic edge sharpness, hepatic vessel clarity, respiratory artifacts, radial artifacts, lesion conspicuity, and lesion edge sharpness using the Likert scale, where a lower score indicated poorer image quality. The coefficients of variation of signal intensity of liver and spleen were analyzed.

Results

In 41 patients, 3D VANE eTHRIVE showed the highest scores for all image quality parameters ( P ≤ 0.001). 3D VANE eTHRIVE also showed higher scores for respiratory ( P ≤ 0.001) and radial artefacts than 3D VANE mDixon ( P = 0.001). There were no significant differences in coefficients of variation of signal intensity of the liver and spleen between 3D VANE eTHRIVE and 3D VANE mDixon. Acquisition time was longer for 3D VANE eTHRIVE (81.26 ± 16 s) than for Cartesian eTHRIVE (7.87 ± 0.95 s) and 3D VANE mDixon (76.66 ± 12.4 s, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The application of stack-of-stars acquisition to 3D T1W abdominal MRI resulted in better image quality than Cartesian acquisition in free-breathing children. In stack-of-stars acquisition, spectral fat suppression resulted in better image quality and fewer artifacts than mDixon.
Pericardial adipose tissue is an independent risk factor of coronary artery disease and is associated with risk factors of coronary artery disease
Authors: Si Yueqiao , Cui Zhixin , Liu Jingyi , Ding Zhenjiang , Han Chao , Wang Ruijuan , Liu Tong , Sun Lixian
Published: June 2020

Objective

Pericardial adipose tissue volume (PATV) is related to the mechanism of coronary artery disease (CAD), but its association with CAD risk factors is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between PATV and its associated factors.

Methods

A total of 682 inpatients were consecutively enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into the high PATV group (PATV ≥174.5 cm3; n = 506) and low PATV group (PATV  < 174.5 cm3; n = 176). Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the related factors of PATV. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of CAD.

Results

Left ventricular fat volume, right ventricular fat volume, body mass index, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significant and independent risk factors of enlargement of PATV. Increased PATV was identified as an independent risk factor of CAD, and increased pulse pressure was also independently and positively correlated with CAD.

Conclusions

PATV is significantly correlated with the classic risk factors of CAD. Pulse pressure is also correlated with PATV. PATV is an independent risk factor of CAD, and pericardial adipose tissue may alternatively be used in non-invasive diagnostic examination of CAD.
Choosing and Changing Course: Postsecondary Students and the Process of Selecting a Major Field of Study
Authors: Denice Patrick A.
Published: June 2020

Much prior research has examined the individual-level, major-specific, and institutional correlates of college students’ choice of major, as well as the variation in labor market outcomes associated with this important choice. Extant accounts, however, largely overlook the process by which individuals change their major throughout college. This study provides a comprehensive description of major switching, and considers its relevance to concerns about stratification in postsecondary education. Drawing on survey and transcript data from students at three large universities in the United States, I find that switching is widespread, and that many students change their majors multiple times. Students appear to change majors in an effort to better fit their interests and abilities, as students seek out majors that are generally less competitive and easier. Major change further contributes to gender segregation, particularly as women leave science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields after initially selecting these at lower rates than men.
Potential use of waste from tree pruning and recovered plastic to obtain a building material: Case study of Merida, Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Estrada Ricardo Herbé , Guillén-Mallette Javier , Cupul-Manzano Carlos Vidal , Balam-Hernández Josué Iván
Published: June 2020

This work presents a study on the use of wood and plastic wastes generated in abundance in Merida, Mexico, to help to reduce them in order to mitigate environmental deterioration. The use of these wastes is proposed to obtain a low-cost building material. So, the escalation process (i.e., extrusion) at the pilot level to obtain a prototype of a wood–plastic composite (WPC) corrugated sheet to evaluate the technical feasibility to make a low-cost product is reported. A corrugated sheet with recycled high-density polyethylene (R-HDPE) was produced. The R-HDPE was collected from Merida’s Separation Plant. The wood came from the trimmings of different varieties of trees and shrubs that are periodically pruned. WPC sheets with virgin HDPE were prepared to assess its effect on the materials’ mechanical performance. The wood/HDPE weight ratio was 40/60. The performance of the WPC sheets was compared with that of commercial products with similar characteristics, namely acrylic and polyester sheets reinforced with fibreglass, and black asphalt-saturated cardboard sheets. Thus, the effect of natural weathering on the maximum tensile tearing force and on the maximum flexural load of the different types of sheets was evaluated. Although the mechanical performance of the WPC sheets was lower than that of the acrylic and polyacrylic sheets, their performance was much better than that of the cheap black asphalt-saturated cardboard sheets. So, they are a good option to be used as low-cost temporary roofing.
Strategic Options for More Effective Indigenous Participation in Collaborative Environmental Governance
Authors: Bullock Ryan , Zurba Melanie , Reed Maureen G. , McCarthy Dan
Published: June 2020

This research focuses on how Indigenous peoples might participate in collaborative environmental governance initiated by networked nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Fourteen Indigenous and six non-Indigenous board members and partners of Canadian Model Forests were interviewed and discussed seven aspects of collaborative governance affecting Indigenous participation: purpose and vision; decision-making structure(s); roles and responsibilities; engagement; capacity; leadership; and, cultural suitability. Participants described four possible participation structures: external advisory committee; internal board subcommittee; hybrid internal–external advisory board; and internal ad hoc group. Here, design options and implications of each model are considered, offering choices for engagement where NGOs seek to lead collaborative approaches.
Earnings Inequality in 2016 Among Anglos, Latinxs, and Blacks
Authors: Hogan Richard , Perrucci Carolyn Cummings
Published: June 2020

In this article we estimate gross, net, and interactive effects of race, ethnicity, marriage and family status, labor and capital markets, class/occupation and education and employment experience/effort, using the 2017 Current Population Survey, March Supplement. Following the Tilly and Hogan conceptualization of durable inequality and the Hogan and Hogan and Perrucci empirical work on Black and White racial and gender inequality, we update and expand that analysis to include Latinos and Latinas, focusing on the ways in which relations with Anglo men create or sustain distinctive forms of exploitation and opportunity hoarding, concluding that Latinas are truly disadvantaged due to ethnic barriers to educational and employment opportunities and exploitation as unpaid or underpaid labor, at home and at work.
Overseas Mechanism: The Polonia Book Fund, Ltd., Transnational Network, 1958–1963
Authors: Sowiński Paweł
Published: June 2020

This article discusses the history of the so-called book program—a joint effort by the US government, the East European diaspora, and readers of prohibited books behind the Iron Curtain. Between 1956 and 1989, the program purchased some ten million copies of publications and delivered them to people in Soviet-dominated Eastern Europe in order to undermine communist rule. The article gives nuanced explanations of the motivations and practices of book-takers, placing Cold War books in the context of consumer goods trades. Using the historical materials of the Polonia Book Fund, a US-sponsored publishing project for Poland, this article contributes new insights on the transatlantic perspective of the cultural Cold War. This article focuses on the program’s early stages, and describes various elements of the transnational smuggling network. The program’s state–private partnership was a workable solution that helped to foster a diversity of opinions in post-Stalinist Poland.
Effects of Patient-Centered Communication on Influenza Vaccination and Self-Reported General Health Status among Asian Americans: A Comparison Model for Young/Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Shon En-Jung , Wells Anjanette
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Asian American subgroups’ influenza vaccination is still below the US standards. This study examined the effects of patient-centered communication (PCC) on influenza vaccination and the general health (GH) of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean Americans. A group difference between younger and older adults was investigated. Methods: The 2014–2016 California Health Interview Surveys were merged (Chinese [ N = 1,680], Korean [ N = 514], and Vietnamese [ N = 644]; age 18+; younger = 1,629 and older = 1,209). Two path models (PCC [measured by physicians’ careful listening], vaccination, and GH; PCC [measured by physicians’ clear explanation], vaccination, and GH) were evaluated. Regression maximum likelihood was applied for missing values. Results: Both the first and second models showed good model fit scores (comparative fit index [CFI] = .95, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = .04, and standardized root mean residual [SRMR] = .03; CFI = .93, RMSEA = .04, and SRMR = .03). There were direct effects of PCC on vaccination among younger adults. PCC directly influenced GH for both age-groups. Discussion: A PCC manual for physicians in local or community health centers could enhance both younger and older adults’ influenza vaccination.
Playing chess against the military
Authors: Bines Rosana Kohl
Published: June 2020

My contribution engages in close-reading analysis of the award-winning picture book The Composition, written by Chilean author Antonio Skármeta and illustrated by Alfonso Ruano. It explores the political potential of fiction to recast children as creative subjects with political awareness and instruments to resist oppressive discourses and practices in the context of military dictatorships.
Free vibration analysis of large deformed curved beam incorporating rotary inertia and shear deformation effects and its experimental validation
Authors: Ghuku Sushanta , Saha Kashinath
Published: June 2020

The paper theoretically and experimentally analyzes free vibration characteristics of statically loaded moving boundary type curved beam considering rotary inertia and shear deformation effects. Effects of rotary inertia and shear deformation are observed for different thickness to span ratios of curved beam. The subject problem is decoupled into two interrelated problems: determining equilibrium configuration under static load and finding the corresponding free vibration frequency. The static problem is analyzed incrementally in body fitted curvilinear frame as it involves geometric nonlinearity due to generalized curvature, large deformation, and moving boundaries. Variational energy principle is employed to derive governing equation. The nonlinear governing equation associated with complicated boundary conditions is solved through iterative geometry updation. Once static problem is solved for current load step, governing equation for dynamic characteristics is derived using Hamilton’s principle. The governing equation gets linearized by using the static configuration, which finally yields a linear eigenvalue problem. Experiment is performed in a dedicated setup with two master leafs having different thickness to span ratios. The roller supported specimens are excited with an instrumented hammer and response signals are captured by accelerometers. The excitation and response signals are recorded using HBM-MX840B data acquisition system. Frequency response functions of the curved beam systems under different static loads are obtained from postprocessing of the dynamic signals in MATLAB®. First two natural frequencies of the specimens are noted from the experimental results and the corresponding theoretical results are generated. The specimens are also modeled in ABAQUS® CAE and finite element results are computed. Comparison between the theoretical, experimental, and finite element results validates the present model. The study also provides some meaningful observations on effects of rotary inertia and shear deformation. Based on the observations, more results are generated for different thickness to span ratios and findings are reported suitably.
MicroRNA: Potential biomarker and target of therapy in acute lung injury
Authors: Jiang Z-F , Zhang L , Shen J
Published: June 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs stretching over 18–22 nucleotides and considered to be modifiers of many respiratory diseases. They are highly evolutionary conserved and have been implicated in several biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, among others. Acute lung injury (ALI) is a fatal disease commonly caused by direct or indirect injury factors and has a high mortality rate in intensive care unit. Changes in expression of several types of miRNAs have been reported in patients with ALI. Some miRNAs suppress cellular injury and accelerate the recovery of ALI by targeting specific molecules and decreasing excessive immune response. For this reason, miRNAs are proposed as potential biomarkers for ALI and as therapeutic targets for this disease. This review summarizes current evidence supporting the role of miRNAs in ALI.
Comparing cytology, colposcopy and human papillomavirus cervical intraepithelial lesion screening methods in women with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: García-Carrasco Mario , Mendoza-Pinto Claudia , Méndez-Martínez Socorro , Rodríguez-Reyes Ariadna , Munguía-Realpozo Pamela , Taboada-Cole Alejandro , Vallejo-Ruiz Verónica , Etchegaray-Morales Ivet , Jiménez-Herrera Rebeca , Juárez-Melchor Daniela , Villanueva-López Isaí
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare the performance of cytology, colposcopy and human papillomavirus in detecting cervical intraepithelial lesions in women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Methods

Papanicolaou smears (normal, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion), colposcopy findings, human papillomavirus and co-testing (Papanicolaou smear + human papillomavirus) were compared with cervical biopsy findings in women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Sensitivity, specificity, false-positive and false-negative rates, positive and negative predictive values and likelihood ratios of cytologic smears, colposcopy findings, human papillomavirus and co-testing were determined.

Results

Cytology and colposcopy were performed in 170 systemic lupus erythematosus women (mean age and disease duration of 43.7±12.1 years and 9.7±5.3 years, respectively) and biopsies were performed in 55 patients (38.2% normal, 60.0% low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and 1.8% high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of cytology were 14.7% (95% confidence interval 5.5–31.8%), 95.2% (95% confidence interval 74.1–99.7%), 83.3% (95% confidence interval 36.4–99.1%) and 40.8% (95% confidence interval 27.3–55.7%), respectively. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of colposcopy findings were 100.0% (95% confidence interval 87.3–100.0%), 0.0% (95% confidence interval 0.0–19.2%) and 61.8% (95% confidence interval 47.7–74.2%), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of co-testing were 8.0% (95% confidence interval 1.3–27.5%) and 100.0% (95% confidence interval 71.6–100.0%). The positive predictive value and negative predictive values were 100.0% (95% confidence interval 19.7–100.0%) and 36.1% (95% confidence interval 33.5–38.8%), respectively.

Conclusions

In systemic lupus erythematosus patients, colposcopy impressions were more sensitive than cytology and co-testing. However, cytology and co-testing were the most specific tests. The results should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size.
Assessing the effectiveness of pediatric emergency medicine education in emergency medicine residency training: A national survey
Authors: Chen Wei-Chen , Chaou Chung-Hsien , Ng Chip-Jin , Liu Yueh-Ping , Chang Yu-Che
Published: June 2020

Background:

Evaluating the effectiveness of pediatric emergency medicine training is essential to ensure that emergency physicians and emergency medicine residents have sufficient knowledge, skill, and confidence in optimizing care for acute pediatric visits. Although the field of pediatric emergency medicine has experienced phenomenal growth in past decades, it still faces challenges in how to best implement the curriculums in emergency medicine residency training programs.

Objectives:

Exploring emergency physicians’ and emergency residents’ perspectives on pediatric emergency medicine training in emergency residency training programs in Taiwan through a nationwide survey.

Methods:

The survey was distributed to 1281 emergency physicians and emergency medicine residents in 43 teaching hospitals. The survey inquired about demographic data, hospital type, rank of proctored trainers and assessors, and the setting of pediatric emergency medicine training. Participants’ confidence in managing acute pediatric visits and their satisfaction and reflections of their pediatric emergency medicine training were explored.

Results:

In all, 258 responses were received from 117 residents and 141 emergency physicians. Seventy-seven percent reported working in medical centers. Clinical supervision was primarily performed by pediatric attending physicians and emergency physicians. Fifty-eight percent of participants felt satisfied with their pediatric emergency medicine training. However, only 52.3% felt confident managing acute pediatric visits, which was attributed to inadequate exposure to pediatric patients. Residents noted lack of confidence in managing newborns, infants, and clinical procedures. Therefore, simulation training and point-of-care ultrasound learning were considered advantageous.

Conclusion:

The pediatric emergency medicine training in emergency medicine residency programs is diverse in intensive care training, supervisors, and assessors. Surveys demonstrate that learning experience in pediatric wards and emergency department rotations is associated with overall satisfaction with pediatric emergency medicine training; inadequate exposure to pediatric patients contributed to learners having less confidence. Emergency medicine residency program reform might focus on adequate hands-on pediatric patient care.
Perceptions of Program Directors Concerning Design and Implementation of the Master of Music Degree in Music Education
Authors: Conway Colleen , Marra Christopher , Marra Jessica Vaughan
Published: June 2020

The key research question for this qualitative study was as follows: How do program directors in selected schools describe the successes and challenges related to the design of their Master of Music degree in music education? Data sources included website content for 21 NASM-accredited programs and individual interviews with program directors from seven institutions. Program directors outlined several challenges associated with program development, including how to address the practical needs of music teachers in a flexible, accommodating, and efficient manner while maintaining the highest standards for coursework so as to prepare some masters students for the possibility of doctoral work. We discuss major themes in relation to past studies of graduate education in music.
Non-thermal plasma: An advanced technology for food industry
Authors: Sonawane Sachin K , T Marar , Patil Sonal
Published: June 2020

In this era of green technology, plasma technology is one of the novel techniques intended towards many industries including food industry as a principal application due to less utilization of energy, solvents, and water with minimum impact on food quality. The foremost purpose behind the utilization of nonthermal plasma processing (cold plasma) lies in the retention of freshness of food products along with furtherance of sensory properties as well as functional and nutritional composition. In addition, this technique assists in shelf life extension and carries out desirable modifications in the structure of food and packaging material. This technology has been proven to be advantageous over other technologies since all these processes are carried out at low temperature, hence is highly suitable for heat-sensitive materials. The present review summarizes the mechanism of this plasma technology along with its benefits to the industry, for example improvements in cooking quality, enhancements in enzyme activity, modification of starches, and microbial inactivation. Also, the effects of plasma treatment on characteristics of various food products have been elaborated in this review.
Meta-Analysis of Sex Differences in ADHD Symptoms and Associated Cognitive Deficits
Authors: Loyer Carbonneau Maryanne , Demers Martin , Bigras Marc , Guay Marie-Claude
Published: June 2020

Objective: A meta-analysis was carried out to determine whether there are sex differences among children and adolescents with ADHD on the primary symptoms of ADHD and on executive and attentional functioning. Method: Studies published from 1997 to 2017 comparing boys and girls with a valid ADHD diagnosis were retained. Results: The meta-analysis found boys with ADHD to be more hyperactive than girls with ADHD and boys to have more difficulties in terms of motor response inhibition and cognitive flexibility. Results also confirm that youths with ADHD have more executive deficits than non-ADHD peers have, but there is no sex difference in this regard. Conclusion: Results show that there are sex differences in the behavioral expression of the difficulties related to ADHD. This highlights the importance of pursuing research to refine the profile of girls with ADHD and to develop diagnostic criteria adapted to each sex.