bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Firm Size and Knowledge Intensity in the Performance Effects of Collective Turnover
Authors: De Meulenaere Kim , De Winne Sophie , Marescaux Elise , Vanormelingen Stijn
Published: October 2019

As employees are among firms’ most important resources and labor markets are facing serious labor shortages, firm-level collective turnover is one of the most important challenges facing organizations. Context-emergent turnover theory provides a theoretical framework for the performance implications of collective turnover and argues that context, and in particular, firm size, plays a crucial role in the collective turnover–performance relationship. Yet, the moderating role of firm size remains undertheorized, empirically understudied, and thus, unclear. Based on the resource-based view of the firm, we develop a theoretical framework for two competing perspectives (a negative and a positive one) on the role of firm size and put forward the firm’s knowledge intensity as a crucial additional moderator. The main premise is that whereas firm size determines what resources firms have to successfully cope with turnover, knowledge intensity determines the resources firms need to do so. We propose a three-way interaction, suggesting that firm size reinforces the harmful effect of turnover in highly knowledge-intensive firms and buffers it in firms with low levels of knowledge intensity. Using a unique multi-industry and longitudinal administrative data set of 6,913 Belgian firms (2012–2016), we find support for these assumptions. This study highlights the importance of the context in which firms have to deal with turnover, and it spurs researchers to go beyond studying turnover in narrow study contexts, to take into account the interplay among different but intertwined organizational contingencies, and to acknowledge both the quantitative (how many employees leave) and qualitative components (who leaves) of turnover.
Teacher Unionization and Student Academic Performance: Looking beyond Collective Bargaining
Authors: Han Eunice S. , Maloney Thomas N.
Published: October 2019

This paper investigates the relationship between teachers unions and students’ academic performance. We examine nationally representative data and use a more comprehensive measure of teacher unionization by identifying both districts with collective bargaining contracts and districts with meet-and-confer agreements. We find that teachers unions raise student test scores via both channels. This positive relationship is stronger for black students than for white students and for lower grade than upper grade levels.
The ‘Uncle Tom’ dilemma: Minorities in power-sharing arrangements
Authors: Fraenkel Jon
Published: October 2019

Mandatory power-sharing laws aim to balance power between groups in contexts where majoritarian democracy might disadvantage minorities. Yet, unless veto arrangements are in place, cabinet-level decision-making usually continues to operate under majority rule. Minority parties participating in such power-sharing executives may lose support in their own communities owing to a failure to deliver substantial reforms or to advance minority objectives and become seen as ‘Uncle Tom’ type figures who no longer represent their own community. This article explores examples of these dilemmas facing power-sharing cabinets in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Bosnia–Herzegovina, Fiji, and the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia.
Cardiopulmonary Health Effects of Airborne Particulate Matter: Correlating Animal Toxicology to Human Epidemiology
Authors: Pinkerton Kent E. , Chen Chao-Yin , Mack Savannah M. , Upadhyay Priya , Wu Ching-Wen , Yuan Wanjun
Published: October 2019

The effects of particulate matter (PM) on cardiopulmonary health have been studied extensively over the past three decades. Particulate matter is the primary criteria air pollutant most commonly associated with adverse health effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The mechanisms by which PM exerts its effects are thought to be due to a variety of factors which may include, but are not limited to, concentration, duration of exposure, and age of exposed persons. Adverse effects of PM are strongly driven by their physicochemical properties, sites of deposition, and interactions with cells of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The direct translocation of particles, as well as neural and local inflammatory events, are primary drivers for the observed cardiopulmonary health effects. In this review, toxicological studies in animals, and clinical and epidemiological studies in humans are examined to demonstrate the importance of using all three approaches to better define potential mechanisms driving health outcomes upon exposure to airborne PM of diverse physicochemical compositions.
Flavorings-Related Lung Disease: A Brief Review and New Mechanistic Data
Authors: Hubbs Ann F. , Kreiss Kathleen , Cummings Kristin J. , Fluharty Kara L. , O’Connell Ryan , Cole Allison , Dodd Tiana M. , Clingerman Sidney M. , Flesher Jordan R. , Lee Rebecca , Pagel Samantha , Battelli Lori A. , Cumpston Amy , Jackson Mark , Kashon Michael , Orandle Marlene S. , Fedan Jeffrey S. , Sriram Krishnan
Published: October 2019

Flavorings-related lung disease is a potentially disabling and sometimes fatal lung disease of workers making or using flavorings. First identified almost 20 years ago in microwave popcorn workers exposed to butter-flavoring vapors, flavorings-related lung disease remains a concern today. In some cases, workers develop bronchiolitis obliterans, a severe form of fixed airways disease. Affected workers have been reported in microwave popcorn, flavorings, and coffee production workplaces. Volatile α-dicarbonyl compounds, particularly diacetyl (2,3-butanedione) and 2,3-pentanedione, are implicated in the etiology. Published studies on diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione document their ability to cause airway epithelial necrosis, damage biological molecules, and perturb protein homeostasis. With chronic exposure in rats, they produce airway fibrosis resembling bronchiolitis obliterans. To add to this knowledge, we recently evaluated airway toxicity of the 3-carbon α-dicarbonyl compound, methylglyoxal. Methylglyoxal inhalation causes epithelial necrosis at even lower concentrations than diacetyl. In addition, we investigated airway toxicity of mixtures of diacetyl, acetoin, and acetic acid, common volatiles in butter flavoring. At ratios comparable to workplace scenarios, the mixtures or diacetyl alone, but not acetic acid or acetoin, cause airway epithelial necrosis. These new findings add to existing data to implicate α-dicarbonyl compounds in airway injury and flavorings-related lung disease.
Clinical Implications of Carcinoma In Situ in Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Maina Ivy W. , Tong Charles C. L. , Baranov Esther , Patel Neil N. , Triantafillou Vasiliki , Kuan Edward C. , Kohanski Michael A. , Papagiannopoulos Peter , Yan Carol H. , Workman Alan D. , Lambert Justina L. , Cohen Noam A. , Kennedy David W. , Adappa Nithin D. , Feldman Michael D. , Palmer James N.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) is a typically benign sinonasal tumor with a tendency to recur and the potential for malignant transformation. Varying degrees of dysplasia may be present, of which carcinoma in situ (CIS) is most advanced. We hereby describe the biological and clinical behavior of IP with CIS (IPwCIS).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary academic referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Patients who underwent surgical resection for IP between 2002 and 2017. Pertinent clinical data were obtained, and all IPwCIS cases were histologically confirmed.

Results

In total, 37 of 215 cases (17.2%) were identified with IPwCIS. Mean age was 57 years and 86.5% of patients were male. Median follow‐up was 82 months, and the recurrence rate was 27%. The maxillary sinus was the most common primary site (37.8%) and 14 tumors (37.8%) demonstrated multifocal attachment, which was associated with recurrence (odds ratio [OR], 9.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4‐112.8; P =. 028). IPwCIS was also associated with multiple recurrences (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.246‐5.814; P =. 021). Most patients were treated with surgery alone (89.1%) and 4 patients received adjuvant radiotherapy (8.1%). Only 1 patient (2.7%) demonstrated malignant transformation after definitive surgery.

Conclusions

IPwCIS represents the most severe degree of dysplasia prior to malignant transformation and is associated with higher recurrence rate and multifocal involvement but low rate of conversion to invasive carcinoma. The need for adjuvant therapy remains controversial, and further research into the etiology of the disease is warranted.
Five‐Year Objective and Subjective Outcomes of Velopharyngeal Surgery for Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Yin Guoping , He Mu , Cao Xin , Xu Jinkun , Zhang Yuhuan , Kang Dan , Ye Jingying
Published: October 2019

Objective

To assess the long‐term effects of velopharyngeal surgery on objective and subjective symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

University medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Eighty‐six patients with OSA underwent velopharyngeal surgery, which consisted of revised uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with uvula preservation, with or without concomitant transpalatal advancement pharyngoplasty. The results from polysomnography and the Epworth Sleep Scale after 6 months and 5 years were compared with baseline. Baseline variables were compared between responders and nonresponders.

Results

Sixty‐three patients were successfully followed up at the end of study. The surgical success rate after 6 months and 5 years was 66.67% (42 of 63) and 60.32% (38 of 63), respectively, with no significant difference (P =. 459). The apnea‐hypopnea index and Epworth Sleep Scale dramatically decreased from baseline after 6 months and 5 years in responders and nonresponders (P <. 001 for all). As compared with nonresponders, the responders exhibited larger tonsil size, higher nocturnal lowest oxygen desaturation, lower CT90 (percentage of time with oxygen saturation <90%), and shorter MH (vertical distance between the lower edge of the mandible and hyoid in the midsagittal plane of computed tomography). Tonsil size and CT90 showed significant predictive value for surgery success (P <. 001 for both).

Conclusion

Velopharyngeal surgery was effective in improving nocturnal respiration and excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with OSA at 6‐month and 5‐year follow‐up. Tonsil size and CT90 could be predictors for surgery responders.
Are Children of Immigrants Graded Less Generously by their Teachers than Natives, and Why? Evidence from Student Population Data in Italy
Authors: Triventi Moris
Published: October 2019

This article investigates whether teachers grade students with a migration background (SMBs) less generously than native students with comparable academic skills, and it examines the sources of such migrants’ under evaluation. We use population data from two whole cohorts of pupils enrolled in Italian primary and lower-secondary school. Using subject-specific standardized test scores as a yardstick, we found that SMBs were graded less generously by teachers than were natives with comparable ability, in both reading and mathematics. Applying the Blinder-Oaxaca method to assess which factors can account for SMBs’ disadvantage, we found that the most relevant factors are language spoken at home and family socio-economic resources, but that some students’ attitudes towards school also matter, especially in lower secondary school. However, observable characteristics are far from accounting for all the teacher grading bias against SMBs, suggesting that unobserved factors and implicit discrimination processes could be at work as well.
Aortoiliac occlusive disease associated with an ectopic pelvic kidney
Authors: Derbel Bilel , Terzi Myriam , Ghedira Faker , Koubaa Mohamed Ali , Ziadi Jalel , Denguir Raouf
Published: October 2019

A pelvic kidney is a rare congenital anomaly. In patients requiring aortic surgery, the diagnosis of associated pelvic kidney is always challenging. This anomaly is best known for being associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm and rarely, with aortoiliac occlusive disease. We report the case of a 59-year-old man who presented with critical left lower limb ischemia secondary to bilateral iliac occlusion associated with pelvic kidney. He underwent aortofemoral bypass with an uneventful outcome.
The gift economy and the development of sustainability
Authors: Thygesen Niels
Published: October 2019

This article contends that a new perspective on the economy – a gift economy – would be beneficial to the development of sustainability. The principles and practices of the gift economy (giving, receiving and reciprocating) are exemplified by a case study of the Danish island of Samsø, which has used it to achieve environmental sustainability, improve its economic situation and generate social value. In order to illustrate the values and principles that underpin the gift economy, the article shows the underlying exchange mechanisms used in this modern version of ‘gift-giving’ and contrasts them to using money as the medium of exchange. One of the mainstays of the gift economy is the willingness and obligation to reciprocate, and the case study highlights some of the original ways of organising that have emerged from the gift economy on Samsø and how significantly they differ from organising and managing by budgets. As such, the article attempts to reframe the understanding of the economy and, in particular, to qualify and illustrate the potential of the organising principles behind the gift economy and encourage readers to conduct further research and engage in initiatives that will make a positive contribution to the development of sustainability.
Serotonin 2C receptors in the basolateral amygdala mediate the anxiogenic effect caused by serotonergic activation of the dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus
Authors: Matthiesen Melina , Mendes Leonardo D , Spiacci Ailton , Fortaleza Eduardo AT , Corrêa Fernando MA , Zangrossi Hélio
Published: October 2019

Background:

Stimulation of serotonergic neurons within the dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus facilitates inhibitory avoidance acquisition in the elevated T-maze. It has been hypothesized that such anxiogenic effect is due to serotonin release in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala, where facilitation of serotonin 2C receptor-mediated neurotransmission increases anxiety. Besides the dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus, the dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus is recruited by anxiogenic stimulus/situations. However, the behavioral consequences of pharmacological manipulation of this subnucleus are still unknown.

Aims:

Investigate whether blockade of serotonin 2C receptors in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala counteracts the anxiogenic effect caused by the stimulation of dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus serotonergic neurons. Evaluate the effects caused by the excitatory amino acid kainic acid or serotonin 1A receptor-modulating drugs in the dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus.

Methods:

Male Wistar rats were tested in the elevated T-maze and light-dark transition tests after intra-basolateral nucleus of the amygdala injection of the serotonin 2C receptor antagonist SB-242084 (6-chloro-2,3-dihydro-5-methyl-N-[6-[(2-methyl-3-pyridinyl)oxy]-3-pyridinyl]-1H-indole-1-carboxyamide dihydrochloride) followed by intra-dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus administration of the serotonin 1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (N-[2-[4-2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-N-2-pyridinil-cyclohexanecarboxamide maleate). In the dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus, animals were injected with kainic acid, WAY-100635 or the serotonin 1A receptor agonist 8-OH-DPAT ((±)-8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin hydrobromide) and tested in the elevated T-maze.

Results:

SB-242084 in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala blocked the anxiogenic effect caused by the injection of WAY-100635 in the dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus. Kainic acid in the dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus increased anxiety, but also impaired escape expression in the elevated T-maze. Neither WAY-100635 nor 8-OH-DPAT in the dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus affected rat’s behavior in the elevated T-maze.

Conclusion:

Serotonin 2C receptors in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala mediate the anxiogenic effect caused by the stimulation of serotonergic neurons in the dorsal raphe dorsomedial subnucleus. The dorsal raphe caudal subnucleus regulates anxiety- and panic-like behaviors, presumably by a serotonin 1A receptor-independent mechanism.
Post-stroke remodeling processes in animal models and humans
Authors: Cirillo Carla , Brihmat Nabila , Castel-Lacanal Evelyne , Le Friec Alice , Barbieux-Guillot Marianne , Raposo Nicolas , Pariente Jérémie , Viguier Alain , Simonetta-Moreau Marion , Albucher Jean-François , Olivot Jean-Marc , Desmoulin Franck , Marque Philippe , Chollet François , Loubinoux Isabelle
Published: October 2019

After cerebral ischemia, events like neural plasticity and tissue reorganization intervene in lesioned and non-lesioned areas of the brain. These processes are tightly related to functional improvement and successful rehabilitation in patients. Plastic remodeling in the brain is associated with limited spontaneous functional recovery in patients. Improvement depends on the initial deficit, size, nature and localization of the infarction, together with the sex and age of the patient, all of them affecting the favorable outcome of reorganization and repair of damaged areas. A better understanding of cerebral plasticity is pivotal to design effective therapeutic strategies. Experimental models and clinical studies have fueled the current understanding of the cellular and molecular processes responsible for plastic remodeling. In this review, we describe the known mechanisms, in patients and animal models, underlying cerebral reorganization and contributing to functional recovery after ischemic stroke. We also discuss the manipulations and therapies that can stimulate neural plasticity. We finally explore a new topic in the field of ischemic stroke pathophysiology, namely the brain-gut axis.
Machine learning-based unenhanced CT texture analysis for predicting BAP1 mutation status of clear cell renal cell carcinomas
Authors: Kocak Burak , Durmaz Emine Sebnem , Kaya Ozlem Korkmaz , Kilickesmez Ozgur
Published: October 2019

Background

BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) mutation is an unfavorable factor for overall survival in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Radiomics literature about BAP1 mutation lacks papers that consider the reliability of texture features in their workflow.

Purpose

Using texture features with a high inter-observer agreement, we aimed to develop and internally validate a machine learning-based radiomic model for predicting the BAP1 mutation status of ccRCCs.

Material and Methods

For this retrospective study, 65 ccRCCs were included from a public database. Texture features were extracted from unenhanced computed tomography (CT) images, using two-dimensional manual segmentation. Dimension reduction was done in three steps: (i) inter-observer agreement analysis; (ii) collinearity analysis; and (iii) feature selection. The machine learning classifier was random forest. The model was validated using 10-fold nested cross-validation. The reference standard was the BAP1 mutation status.

Results

Out of 744 features, 468 had an excellent inter-observer agreement. After the collinearity analysis, the number of features decreased to 17. Finally, the wrapper-based algorithm selected six features. Using selected features, the random forest correctly classified 84.6% of the labelled slices regarding BAP1 mutation status with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.897. For predicting ccRCCs with BAP1 mutation, the sensitivity, specificity, and precision were 90.4%, 78.8%, and 81%, respectively. For predicting ccRCCs without BAP1 mutation, the sensitivity, specificity, and precision were 78.8%, 90.4%, and 89.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Machine learning-based unenhanced CT texture analysis might be a potential method for predicting the BAP1 mutation status of ccRCCs.
The assassination of Mephibosheth: Royal and redactional intrigue in the book of Samuel
Authors: Bailey Jeremiah N
Published: October 2019

This article explores the textual variation of the name of the son of Saul referenced in 2 Sam 3-4. While the MT reads Ishbosheth, 4QSama and LXX read Mephibosheth. The vague reading in MT 2 Sam 4:1-2 of ‘the son of Saul’ probably indicates that the parent text of the MT once also referenced Mephibosheth. While the variant is widely understood to be a simple accidental scribal insertion, this article argues that it instead reflects the redactional development of Samuel. It does this by (1) considering the implications of 2 Sam 21:1-14 for the rise of the Davidic dynasty and the fall of the Saulides, (2) bringing the question of Samuel’s sources and their integration to bear on the textual issue, and (3) considering ways that this reading of Samuel clarifies the story in 2 Sam 3:7-11.
Structural design and analysis of a small wind turbine blade using Simple Load Model, FAST-MLife codes, and ANSYS nCode DesignLife
Authors: Tenghiri Lhoussaine , Khalil Yassine , Abdi Farid , Bentamy Anas
Published: October 2019

This article presents a structural design and analysis of 11-kW small wind blades. The stress and the fatigue on the blades were computed using Simple Load Model from IEC 61400-2 standard, ANSYS nCode DesignLife, and FAST-MLife codes from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Simple Load Model gives good results in terms of stress analysis but overestimates fatigue damage on the blade. High safety factors imposed by the IEC 61400-2 standard, when full mechanical characterization of the blade material cannot be achieved, lead to heavy structures that impact the blade cost. For the same design, full computational analysis of the blade fatigue using FAST-MLife codes and the ANSYS nCode DesignLife revealed that the rotor blades will be safe against fatigue for a design lifetime of 20 years. This study shows that simple and reliable aeroelastic models are still needed for fatigue analysis of small wind blades.
Groups for the dead
Authors: Gerada Clare , Griffiths Frances
Published: October 2019

This article2 describes a group for those bereaved following the death through suicide of a doctor. It describes why it was formed, how it links to Foulkes’ matrix and, the conscious and unconscious processes which take place. This was the first gathering of a group of this kind in the United Kingdom.
Efficacy of Group Reminiscence Therapy on Cognition, Depression, Neuropsychiatric Symptoms, and Activities of Daily Living for Patients With Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Li Mo , Lyu Ji-hui , Zhang Yi , Gao Mao-long , Li Rena , Mao Pei-xian , Li Wen-jie , Ma Xin
Published: October 2019

The current study aimed to investigate the effects of group reminiscence therapy on cognitive function, depression, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and activities of daily living in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer disease (AD). A single-blind randomized parallel-design controlled trial was conducted between May 1, 2017, and April 30, 2018. Ninety patients with mild-to-moderate AD recruited from Beijing Geriatric Hospital were randomly allocated into intervention (n = 45) and control groups (n = 45). In the intervention group, group-based reminiscence therapy was performed in two 30- to 45-minute sessions weekly for 12 weeks. Control participants received only conventional drug treatments and routine daily care. Alzheimer disease–related symptoms were evaluated using the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive section, the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, and the Barthel Index. Four time points were set for data collection: baseline (before treatment), 4 weeks (during treatment), 12 weeks (end of treatment), and 24 weeks (12 weeks posttreatment). χ2 Tests, independent t tests, repeated-measures analysis of variance, and Bonferroni tests were used for data analysis. Significant improvements in depressive and neuropsychiatric symptoms were found in the intervention group compared to the control group ( P < .05). Mean CSDD scores in the intervention group were improved at all 3 time points compared to baseline and showed the greatest effect at 12 weeks ( t = 2.076, P = .041) and 24 weeks follow-up ( t = 3.834, P = .000) compared to controls. Group reminiscence therapy was effective for improving depressive symptoms and was beneficial for treating neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with AD.
CFD simulations of rotary BOF slag carbonation kiln reactor with cyclone flow
Authors: Chang Tong-Bou , Lee Cho-Yu , Ko Ming-Sheng , Lim Chin-Fong
Published: October 2019

Rotary kiln reactors play an important role in improving the mechanical properties and usability of basic oxygen furnace slag through a carbonation process. The performance of such reactors is critically dependent on the residence time of the CO2 gas used to promote the carbonation reaction. Accordingly, the present study proposes a rotary kiln reactor in which the residence time is increased by arranging the inlet and outlet pipes obliquely to the reactor centerline; thereby producing a cyclone flow structure within the reactor tube. The optimal geometry parameters and rotational speed of the kiln are determined using the robust Taguchi experimental method. The CO2 residence time in the optimized kiln is then evaluated by means of computational fluid dynamics simulations. It is shown that the residence time increases from 63.587 s in a standard (non-cyclone-flow) rotary kiln to 105.815 s in the optimized rotary kiln; corresponding to a performance improvement of 66.4%.
Investigations on the influence of tandem blades on inner flow and performance characteristics of centrifugal pump
Authors: Shi Xiaobing , Lu Jinling , Zhao Lianming
Published: October 2019

Although significant advances have been made in tandem-blade technology for axial and centrifugal compressors, little attention has been paid to its application in centrifugal pumps. In this study, we propose a new tandem-blade design method for improving inner flow characteristics and overall performance of a centrifugal pump. With the SST k − ω turbulence model, three-dimensional turbulent flow fields in the centrifugal pump with tandem blades are simulated and analyzed. The effects of tandem blades on the inner flow and performance characteristics of the centrifugal pump are investigated. The predicted velocity and pressure distributions and flow behavior of the tandem-blade impeller are compared with those of a conventional single row blade impeller. It is indicated that the centrifugal tandem-blade impeller exhibits a significant advantage in terms of the uniformity of the impeller discharge flow. The tandem blades improve the jet-wake structure and uniformity of velocity and pressure distributions at the impeller outlet, and thus reduce the pressure fluctuation and hydraulic loss. Moreover, the hump phenomenon is eliminated or alleviated under low flow rate conditions, and the tandem-blade impeller has better hydraulic performance within a wider operating range as well as high reliability. This study provides a basis for the further development of the centrifugal pump with tandem blades.
Effect of general boundary and coupling conditions on the vibration and power flow characteristics of a coupled H-shaped three-plate structure
Authors: Mahapatra Kavikant , Panigrahi SK
Published: October 2019

Coupled H-shaped three-plate structures are extensively used as support platforms for machinery structures in engineering applications. These structures are constructed with various types of real engineering boundaries and coupling mechanisms. This investigation presents a numerical analysis of the effect of finitely varying boundary and coupling conditions on the vibration and power flow characteristics of a coupled H-shaped three-plate system. Modified Fourier series approximation of out-of-plane and in-plane displacement along with the Rayleigh–Ritz energy minimising procedure has been utilised for theoretical analysis, and different cases of variation of boundary and coupling spring stiffnesses have been taken to numerically analyse its effect on the vibration and power flow characteristics of the plate system. The numerical results indicate the presence of three different zones of finite coupling stiffness combinations at the coupled junction wherein the natural frequency and mode shapes undergo a major alteration. The decay or amplification of power flow characteristics across the plate junctions has been found to be highly dependent on the coupling stiffness values at the junctions. The consideration of general boundaries and coupling conditions in coupled plate systems is an essential design necessity for accurate prediction of the dynamic behaviour of coupled plate structures as their finite variations greatly influence the vibration and power flow characteristics of the coupled system.
Characterization analysis of activated carbon derived from the carbonization process of plane tree (Platanus orientalis) seeds
Authors: Dodevski Vladimir , Janković Bojan , Radović Ivana , Stojmenović Marija , Čebela Maria , Nikolić Željka , Pagnacco Maja C , Panić Ivan , Stanković Miroslav
Published: October 2019

In this work, plane tree seed-based activated carbons were characterized in detail for a variety of applications. The particularly important area of application would be in the artificial photosynthesis. After carbonization process of biomass precursor at 650°C, the resulting preliminary activated carbons were activated at various temperatures. The activated carbons were characterized by oxygen functionalities (a particularly important role has ester oxygen groups) which provide a unique microstructure. The chemical compositions of as-prepared activated carbons were analyzed through Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectra as well as gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy analysis, while morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Applied analysis showed that detected graphite mainly becomes uniformly nanocrystalline system. The current study also explored the applicability of carbon material obtained from plane tree seed as a potential gaseous adsorbent. The characterization showed that the tested material contains both mesopores and micropores, and this should be advantageous for the gas sorption process, since mesopores may provide low-resistant pathways for the diffusion of CO2 molecules, while the micropores are the most suitable for trapping of CO2. The sorption process analysis (including adsorption/desorption isotherms behavior) shows indication that the rate-limiting step of CO2 adsorption onto activated carbon is probably governed by diffusion-controlled process, especially at temperatures below 850°C.
Survey of perfluorinated compounds in consumer products by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Lee Minjin , Kim Jaewoo , Park Young-Kwon
Published: October 2019

Qualitative and quantitative liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry methods were developed for the analysis of perfluorinated compounds in consumer products and to examine the content of perfluorinated compounds in commercial products. In this study, 11 types of perfluorinated compounds, which were divided into perfluorinated carboxylic acids, perfluorinated sulfonic acids, perfluorooctane sulfonamides, perfluorooctane sulfonamide ethanol, and fluorinated telomere alcohols, were selected. The samples were extracted ultrasonically with methanol to confirm the efficiency of various extraction solvents and to take the appropriate extraction time. Methanol extraction was conducted for 2 h, followed by filtration and analysis by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. This paper reports the determination of 11 types of perfluorinated compound in 300 products from 16 product lines placed on the market in four industrial sectors. The target materials used in this analysis were based on the products classified into four types: coated metal wares, textile products, leather products, and household products. Of a total of 300 products, 51 were detected above the detection limits, which accounted for approximately 17% of the products tested.
Modified integral action with time-varying forgetting function for tracking control
Authors: Villegas Fernando , Hecker Rogelio , Peña Miguel
Published: October 2019

While the use of integral action in control is quite common, in part due to its benefits for output regulation, it can also be counterproductive when abrupt changes in disturbance occur during tracking. In order to mitigate its counterproductive effect while at the same time maintaining its advantages for regulation, this work proposes a new type of integral action, including a time-varying forgetting factor suited to the expected behavior of the disturbance during tracking. Also, Lyapunov stability techniques are used to derive general results aiming to reduce the complexity of stability analysis and control design when the proposed integral action is included in a control law. In particular, these results are used for stability analysis when the proposed integral action is implemented in a deterministic robust controller for a linear motor system. Furthermore, the controller is implemented in the corresponding experimental setup, resulting in an improvement on maximum tracking error of up to 32%.
Remarriage in India: Online Presentation Strategies of Men and Women on an Indian Remarriage Website
Authors: Mishra Smeeta , Jayakar Krishna
Published: October 2019

Traditionally, attitudes towards remarriage in India have been characterised by scepticism and suspicion, especially in the case of women. Online remarriage sites promised to open up new possibilities for Indians seeking remarriage. A study of self-presentation strategies adopted by men and women in their online profiles posted on a popular remarriage site shows that while the new technology may have made it easier for divorced and widowed individuals to search for partners, profiles presented emphasise caste and community affiliations, and reinforce gendered roles and expectations. Those seeking remarriage, especially women, engaged in substantial efforts to allay fears and concerns associated with divorce and remarriage in India by adhering to normative standards characteristic of a deeply patriarchal society. While many profiles of men highlighted a sense of male entitlement and privilege, an account of the circumstances of divorce was missing from the profiles of both men and women even as the Indian family as a site of harmony and respectability was emphasised by both. Furthermore, while men made consumerist promises in their statements, women used their online profiles to express their consumerist dreams, simultaneously adhering to gendered expectations. Finally, both men and women engaged in selective self-presentation emphasising socially desirable traits such as a light skin tone or a desirable body type in a neoliberal context marked by consumerist modernity.
Social Action Committees: Community Intervention to Reduce Gender-based Violence
Authors: Vindhya U. , Lingam Lakshmi
Published: October 2019

This article analyses the principles and processes of a state-sponsored intervention to deal with gender-based violence in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in south India. Anchored within a poverty-alleviation programme, this intervention is implemented through Social Action Committees (SACs) which are small groups of women drawn from women’s collectives of self-help groups (SHGs). In this article, we critically explicate three key themes that we found to be characterising the philosophy and processes of the SAC intervention: restorative justice, psychosocial support, and engagement with men.
A comparison study of three physical activity measurement tools examining acceptability in people with psychosis
Authors: Suetani Shuichi , Chapman Justin , Korman Nicole , Chapman Carly , Dodd Cassandra , Dark Frances , Parker Stephen , Siskind Dan
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To compare the acceptability of three distinct physical activity measurement tools in people with psychosis: an objective measurement tool, a self-report measure, and an exercise capacity test.

Methods:

We measured the completion rate for each measurement tool. Participants rated the ease/difficulty of each measure using a 7-point Likert scale. Participants were also asked to rank the three tools in order of the ease of use.

Results:

Sixty-six per cent (46/69) of participants completed all three assessment tools, and 60.9% (42/69) completed the acceptability questionnaire. The majority of the participants found it easy to complete all three measurement tools. The majority (52.8%) of the participants ranked the objective measurement tool as the easiest to use.

Conclusion:

All three measures were acceptable to people with psychosis, but objective measurement tools may be easier to use.
Creeping towards the mutual: lessons from a modest initiative to improve mental health systems capacity in Pacific Island nations
Authors: Hunter Ernest
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To describe the evolution of the Leadership in Mental Health: Island Nations (LMH:IN) course.

Method:

Using Transformation Theory the focus on Island Nations mental health capacity building through seven Creating Futures conferences is explored and directions for the future considered.

Conclusion:

Experience and evaluation identify a set of key factors informing the ongoing development of the LMH:IN course.
Training plus intensive consultation improves uptake and outcome expectations of prolonged exposure therapy among practitioners treating emergency service personnel with post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Wade Darryl , Terhaag Sonia , Putica Andrea , Metcalf Olivia
Published: October 2019

Objective:

Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is an evidence-based psychological treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet uptake amongst practitioners is less than desirable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a PE training workshop plus intensive consultation programme to improve practitioners’ self-efficacy and outcome expectations as well as uptake of PE for emergency service patients with PTSD.

Method:

Forty-five psychologists attended a PE training workshop in Sydney. Participants completed questionnaires at pre- and post-workshop and six-month follow-up.

Results:

The findings suggest that participation in the programme was associated with improvements in practitioners’ beliefs in their ability to deliver PE to patients, an increase in their use of a range of PE components and an increase in their use of in vivo exposure with a greater proportion of patients.

Conclusion:

Effective training approaches for evidence-based treatments of PTSD should incorporate intensive consultation following training. Future studies should consider additional strategies to encourage practitioners to deliver PE to more patients with PTSD.
Association Between the Timing of Goals-of-Care Discussion and Hospitalization Outcomes in Patients With Metastatic Cancer
Authors: Emiloju Oluwadunni E. , Djibo Djeneba Audrey M. , Ford Jean G.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Patients with cancer often require acute hospitalizations, many of which are unplanned. These hospitalizations have been shown to increase in frequency near the end of life. The American College of Physicians recommends that goals-of-care (GOC) discussions be initiated early for metastatic cancers. We hypothesized that discussing GOC during hospitalization could help reduce readmissions. Our aim was to examine the association between the timing of GOC discussion, length of hospital stay, and the time to readmission.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of patients with stage IV cancers hospitalized between August 2017 and July 2018. We recorded timing of GOC discussion, use of palliative care services, and hospital readmissions within 90 days. χ2 tests were used to identify independent associations with GOC discussion, and logistic regression was used to examine association with readmission within 90 days.

Results:

Of all study patients (N = 241), 40.6% were female, 46% (n = 112) had a GOC discussion, and 34% (n = 82) had a palliative care consultation. Having a palliative care consult and being admitted to critical care were independently associated with having a GOC discussion. Early timing of GOC discussion was inversely associated with admission to critical care units ( P < .05). Thirty-eight percent (n = 92) had unplanned hospital readmission within 90 days. Having a GOC discussion was independently associated with a reduction in the odds of an unplanned hospital readmission within 90 days by 79% (odds ratio = 0.21, 95% confidence interval: 0.12-0.37).

Conclusion:

Among hospitalized patients with stage IV cancer, performing an early GOC discussion has an important association with lower hospital readmission rates and increased rates of goal-congruent patient care.
Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasms: A Single Institution Experience of 64 Cases With Clinical Follow-up and Correlation With the Current (Eighth Edition) AJCC Staging
Authors: Wong Mary , Barrows Brad , Gangi Alexandra , Kim Stacey , Mertens Richard B. , Dhall Deepti
Published: October 2019

Background. In this single-institution study, we applied the current (eighth edition) American Joint Committee on Cancer pathologic staging criteria to 64 low-grade mucinous neoplasms of the appendix (LAMNs), examined their histopathologic features, and studied the patients’ clinical outcomes. Design. Sixty-four LAMNs, with a median follow-up of 52 months, were reviewed. Results. The distribution of pathologic stages was pTis (n = 39), pT3 (n = 1), pT4a (n = 5), pT4aM1a (n = 8), and pT4aM1b (n = 11). Recurrence was observed in only 2 patients (both with pT4aM1b disease), one of whom died of disease. All remaining patients were disease-free after a median clinical follow-up of 60 months. Conclusions. Our study confirms that pTis LAMNs have an excellent prognosis and suggests that pT4a and pT4aM1a LAMNs may also have a low risk of developing progressive disease.
Detailed assessment and risk factor analysis of corticosteroid-induced psychiatric disorders in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients undergoing induction or consolidation therapy for hematologic malignancy
Authors: Staub Yukiko , Suga Yukio , Ikawa Yasuhiro , Tsubouchi Kiyotaka , Hashimoto Mikie , Kawagishi Atsufumi , Shimada Tsutomu , Sai Yoshimichi , Nishimura Katsuji , Matsushita Ryo
Published: October 2019

Background

Corticosteroid-induced psychiatric disorders (CIPDs) represent an adverse effect that can cause severe emotional and behavioral problems. The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence and risk factors of CIPDs.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 92 pediatric and young adult patients with hematologic malignancies was conducted.

Results

The incidence of CIPDs in patients receiving a treatment regimen with prednisolone or dexamethasone was 64.9% and 77.5%, respectively, both of which were significantly higher than that in patients not receiving corticosteroids. Independent risk factors and adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) related to severe CIPD were 2.15 (1.11–4.18) for dexamethasone (using prednisolone as the reference) and 0.81 (0.75–0.87) for age, suggesting that the odds increase with decreasing age. Frequently observed symptoms, respectively in terms of behavioral and emotional problems were defiance, crying, psychomotor excitement, dysphoria, irritability, and depression. To our knowledge, this is the first report to mention the risk factors and characteristics for clinical symptoms of CIPDs during the developmental process.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should predict and prepare for psychiatric adverse events prior to chemotherapy in the clinical settings, especially in patients in younger age and receiving a treatment regimen with dexamethasone.
Angioedema late in the course of adjuvant nivolumab therapy for melanoma
Authors: Ratra Atul , Dasanu Constantin A
Published: October 2019

Although immune checkpoint inhibitors improve survival in cancer patients, they have also been linked with unusual side effects. The most common side effects of these agents are immune-mediated phenomena such as itching, skin rash, arthralgias, mild transaminitis and asymptomatic thyroid dysfunction. We describe herein a case of facial angioedema occurring 20 weeks after initiating adjuvant nivolumab therapy for melanoma. The patient had full resolution of symptoms with cessation of nivolumab and a short steroid course. As the causality of an association between nivolumab and angioedema seems legitimate, we expect further similar cases to surface in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Prompt drug withdrawal and steroids are crucial to ensure favorable clinical outcomes in these patients.
Dispersion characteristics of periodic structural systems using higher order beam element dynamics
Authors: Ayad M , Karathanasopoulos N , Reda H , Ganghoffer JF , Lakiss H
Published: October 2019

In the current work, we elaborate upon a beam mechanics-based discrete dynamics approach for the computation of the dispersion characteristics of periodic structures. Within that scope, we compute the higher order asymptotic expansion of the forces and moments developed within beam structural elements upon dynamic loads. Thereafter, we employ the obtained results to compute the dispersion characteristics of one- and two-dimensional periodic media. In the one-dimensional space, we demonstrate that single unit-cell equilibrium can provide the fundamental low-frequency band diagram structure, which can be approximated by non-dispersive Cauchy media formulations. However, we show that the discrete dynamics method can access the higher frequency modes by considering multiple unit-cell systems for the dynamic equilibrium, frequency ranges that cannot be accessed by simplified formulations. We extend the analysis into two-dimensional space computing with the dispersion attributes of square lattice structures. Thereupon, we demonstrate that the discrete dynamics dispersion results compare well with that obtained using Bloch theorem computations. We show that a high-order expansion of the inner element forces and moments of the structures is required for the higher wave propagation modes to be accurately represented, in contrast to the shear and the longitudinal mode, which can be captured using a lower, fourth-order expansion of its inner dynamic forces and moments. The provided results can serve as a reference analysis for the computation of the dispersion characteristics of periodic structural systems with the use of discrete element dynamics.