bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Value of Rapid Delivery in Omnichannel Retailing
Authors: Fisher Marshall L. , Gallino Santiago , Xu Joseph Jiaqi
Published: July 2019

The authors study how faster delivery in the online channel affects sales within and across channels in omnichannel retailing. The authors leverage a quasi-experiment involving the opening of a new distribution center by a U.S. apparel retailer, which resulted in unannounced faster deliveries to western U.S. states through its online channel. Using a difference-in-differences approach, the authors show that online store sales increased, on average, by 1.45% per business-day reduction in delivery time, from a baseline of seven business days. The authors also find a positive spillover effect to the retailer’s offline stores. These effects increase gradually in the short-to-medium run as the result of higher order count. The authors identify two main drivers of the observed effect: (1) customer learning through service interactions with the retailer and (2) existing brand presence in terms of online store penetration rate and offline store presence. Customers with less online store experience are more responsive to faster deliveries in the short run, whereas experienced online store customers are more responsive in the long run.
Responding to What We Notice: International Student Teaching as a Pathway to Cultural Responsiveness
Authors: Cunningham Heather B.
Published: July 2019

This qualitative study explores short-term international student teaching (IST) as an avenue to develop two capacities related to cultural responsiveness among a group of U.S. preservice teachers (PSTs) in Mexico. Cultural noticing involves perceiving details about cultural context. Cultural responding involves using what is noticed to adapt teaching practice. Findings suggest three ideas. First, IST programs may promote development of cultural noticing capacity. Second, teacher education programs must promote development of cultural noticing capacity, as without it, further efforts to develop culturally responsive teaching practice may be futile. Third, Whiteness may obstruct PST engagement in culturally responsive teaching practice.
Ethnic school segregation in Copenhagen: A step in the right direction?
Authors: Nielsen Rikke Skovgaard , Andersen Hans Thor
Published: July 2019

The Danish school system is based on a general belief in the quality and merits of public schooling. Until 20 years ago, more than 90% of all children attended public school. However, this trend has recently seen a decline because of rising spatial inequalities; nowhere is this more visible than in the major cities, particularly Copenhagen. One visible change has been the rise in the number of children with non-Danish backgrounds in public schools in major cities. Previous studies of Copenhagen showed that, while the level of ethnic residential segregation was moderate, the level of school segregation was remarkably high. The purpose of this paper is to revisit the case of Copenhagen through: (a) quantitatively identifying the level of ethnic school segregation in Copenhagen and the change over the last decade, and (b) qualitatively analysing the considerations regarding the school choice of parents in an ethnically diverse district. The paper identifies decreasing levels of ethnic school segregation in public schools but a markedly higher and increasing level in private schools. The qualitative material points to still-existing concerns regarding specific public schools with high proportions of pupils of non-Danish backgrounds as well as to parents who choose to overlook such concerns and opt for the local public school.
Self- and Other-Reported Virtues of Young Purpose Exemplars
Authors: Mariano Jenni Menon , Damiani Taylor , Boyer Margaret
Published: July 2019

In theory, purpose has implications for fostering good character, yet almost no research considers this proposition. This study examined character strengths in interviews with eight adolescent and young adult purpose exemplars and with informants who know them well. Most mentioned, general, typical, and variant strength occurrences were compared between purpose exemplars ( n = 8) and their informants ( n = 16). The groups agreed on prevalence of some strengths, but exemplars reported a much broader range of virtues to characterize their experience, with greater emphasis on virtues requiring maturity, such as wisdom, temperance, and transcendence, as well as strengths pertaining to inquisitiveness. The study supports associations of purpose with single character strengths but also aligns with the unitary view of character.
The Effect of Treaty Withdrawal on Implementing Legislation
Authors: Brumby Elizabeth
Published: July 2019

This article explores the effect of treaty withdrawal on domestic legislation implementing a treaty in the Australian constitutional context. In R (Miller) v Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union (‘Miller’), the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom held that the executive cannot exercise its prerogative power to withdraw from a treaty where that withdrawal would frustrate or invalidate domestic law. This article contends that treaty withdrawal would be unlikely to have this effect on a law implementing a treaty in the Australian context. The article ultimately draws two conclusions. First, a law implementing a treaty would likely survive treaty withdrawal in most cases due to the law’s enduring nexus with Australia’s foreign relations, enabling its continued characterisation as a law ‘with respect to’ s 51(xxix) of the Constitution. Secondly, in the event that withdrawal does lead to a loss of constitutional support, the law would likely become prospectively invalid from the date of effective withdrawal (an outcome identical to legislative repeal in its effect). The article contends that this outcome would not, however, engage the constraint on executive power so emphatically reasserted in Miller. This is because the law’s invalidity is consistent with the implied will of the legislature and thus reinforces, rather than contravenes, the fundamental principle of parliamentary sovereignty which the constraint on executive power protects.
Traumatic Orbital Apex Syndrome: An Uncommon Sequela of Facial Trauma
Authors: Shokri Tom , Zacharia Brad E. , Lighthall Jessyka G.
Published: July 2019

Orbital apex syndrome (OAS) is a rare ocular complication following craniomaxillofacial trauma. This traumatic syndrome is a combination of features seen in both superior orbital fissure syndrome and traumatic orbital neuropathy due to nerve impingement. Due in part to the rarity of this disorder, the optimal treatment of traumatic OAS has yet to be determined. We present a case in which traumatic OAS was caused by direct compression due to a displaced fracture segment from the superior orbit. The patient was successfully treated with a combination of emergent decompression and urgent reconstruction suggesting that this may be an effective strategy in OAS resulting from direct nerve compression as a result of craniomaxillofacial fracture.
Touching with Light, or, How Texture Recasts the Sensing of Underground Water
Authors: Ballestero Andrea
Published: July 2019

This paper is an ethnographic examination of the early social life of a project to map Costa Rica’s aquifers using LandSat imagery and a specialized algorithm. The project aims to make subterranean formations accessible for public agencies mediating recent environmental conflicts over underground water, which have been diagnosed as the country’s first “water war.” I analyze the presentation to the public of this project and the technology it uses to show how vision and touch are conceptual resources that people use to describe the technicalities of satellite imagery. Attending to the semiotic and technical power of vision and touch requires a nonessentialist understanding of the senses. It requires moving away from a narrow understanding of sensing as embodied, phenomenological practice. Focusing on the role of texture as that which operates in the interstices of vision and touch, I propose going beyond panoptic imaginaries in order to grasp the diverse social lives that technologies such as satellite imaging have.
Knowledge-sharing and collaborative behaviour: An empirical study on a Portuguese higher education institution
Authors: Chedid Marcello , Caldeira Ana , Alvelos Helena , Teixeira Leonor
Published: July 2019

Collaboration has been considered a way to address the challenges of the 21st century, fostering the necessary innovation, growth and productivity for all parties involved. Several studies reveal that collaboration can be strongly influenced by knowledge sharing. The literature suggests that this topic is quite relevant and that there is an evident lack of empirical studies that properly investigate the relationship between knowledge-sharing and collaborative behaviour in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). In this context, the purpose of this work is to examine whether knowledge-sharing intention has a positive relationship with collaborative behaviour among professors and researchers in a public Portuguese HEI, taking into account other constructs that can have effect on the knowledge-sharing intention. In order to reach this objective, a conceptual research model was developed based on the theory of reasoned action. The empirical study was conducted based on a questionnaire, and the data analysis was performed using partial least squares. The results indicate that intrinsic motivation and networking are the factors that positively affect the attitude towards knowledge sharing. Nevertheless, it is concluded that trust is the variable that more strongly affects the knowledge-sharing intention. Finally, the study identified that knowledge-sharing intention has a positive influence in collaborative behaviour. It is considered that this study can contribute to support institutions’ management in defining strategies and developing actions in order to promote an organisational culture based on knowledge management that significantly leads to knowledge-sharing and collaboration relationships.
Self-management Processes Used by Healthy Middle-aged Women to Change Behaviors
Authors: Ryan Polly , Brown Melissa A. , Lynch Shelly B.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this descriptive qualitative study was to understand the processes women used to change osteoporosis prevention health behaviors. Twenty healthy, predominately white, middle-aged women engaged in an osteoporosis prevention program shared behavior change stories. Results indicated that behavior change was a highly personalized process influenced by a myriad of factors that are unique to the individual. Approaches to behavior change varied across individuals over time and were shaped by personal preferences, capacity, and past experiences. Rather than relying on a systematic approach to health behavior change, women selected and restructured aspects of research-based recommendations to match their personal needs and preferences. We identified four person-initiated behavior change processes: (a) picking and choosing, (b) doing it my way, (c) recognizing how I am doing, and (d) using prompts and feedback. Understanding the process people use to change behaviors might uniquely contribute to increasing the effectiveness of theory, research, intervention development, and clinical care.
Cost-Effectiveness of Alternative Uses of Polyvalent Meningococcal Vaccines in Niger: An Agent-Based Transmission Modeling Study
Authors: Arifin S. M. Niaz , Zimmer Christoph , Trotter Caroline , Colombini Anaïs , Sidikou Fati , LaForce F. Marc , Cohen Ted , Yaesoubi Reza
Published: July 2019

Background. Despite the introduction of an effective serogroup A conjugate vaccine (MenAfriVac™), sporadic epidemics of other Neisseria meningitidis serogroups remain a concern in Africa. Polyvalent meningococcal conjugate (PMC) vaccines may offer alternatives to current strategies that rely on routine infant vaccination with MenAfriVac plus, in the event of an epidemic, district-specific reactive campaigns using polyvalent meningococcal polysaccharide (PMP) vaccines. Methods. We developed an agent-based transmission model of N. meningitidis in Niger to compare the health effects and costs of current vaccination practice and 3 alternatives. Each alternative replaces MenAfriVac in the infant vaccination series with PMC and either replaces PMP with PMC for reactive campaigns or implements a one-time catch up campaign with PMC for children and young adults. Results. Over a 28-year period, replacement of MenAfriVac with PMC in the infant immunization series and of PMP in reactive campaigns would avert 63% of expected cases (95% prediction interval 49%–75%) if elimination of serogroup A is not followed by serogroup replacement. At a PMC price of $4/dose, this would cost $1412 ($81–$3510) per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) averted. If serogroup replacement occurs, the cost-effectiveness of this strategy improves to $662 (cost-saving, $2473) per DALY averted. Sensitivity analyses accounting for incomplete laboratory confirmation suggest that a catch-up PMC campaign would also meet standard cost-effectiveness thresholds. Limitations. The assumption that polyvalent vaccines offer similar protection against all serogroups is simplifying. Conclusions. The use of PMC vaccines to replace MenAfriVac in routine infant immunization and in district-specific reactive campaigns would have important health benefits and is likely to be cost-effective in Niger. An additional PMC catch-up campaign would also be cost-effective if we account for incomplete laboratory reporting.
Experimental characterization and computational modeling of hydrogel cross-linking for bioprinting applications
Authors: Hajikhani Aidin , Scocozza Franca , Conti Michele , Marino Michele , Auricchio Ferdinando , Wriggers Peter
Published: July 2019

Alginate-based hydrogels are extensively used to create bioinks for bioprinting, due to their biocompatibility, low toxicity, low costs, and slight gelling. Modeling of bioprinting process can boost experimental design reducing trial-and-error tests. To this aim, the cross-linking kinetics for the chemical gelation of sodium alginate hydrogels via calcium chloride diffusion is analyzed. Experimental measurements on the absorbed volume of calcium chloride in the hydrogel are obtained at different times. Moreover, a reaction-diffusion model is developed, accounting for the dependence of diffusive properties on the gelation degree. The coupled chemical system is solved using finite element discretizations which include the inhomogeneous evolution of hydrogel state in time and space. Experimental results are fitted within the proposed modeling framework, which is thereby calibrated and validated. Moreover, the importance of accounting for cross-linking-dependent diffusive properties is highlighted, showing that, if a constant diffusivity property is employed, the model does not properly capture the experimental evidence. Since the analyzed mechanisms highly affect the evolution of the front of the solidified gel in the final bioprinted structure, the present study is a step towards the development of reliable computational tools for the in silico optimization of protocols and post-printing treatments for bioprinting applications.
Resource recovery as alternative fuel and raw material from hazardous waste
Authors: Sadala Swathy , Dutta Saikat , Raghava Radhika , Jyothsna TS Sasi , Chakradhar B , Ghosh Sadhan Kumar
Published: July 2019

The treatment and disposal of industrial waste has become a critical economic and environmental issue with the ever-increasing rates of its generation. Industries in India, as major players in building the economy and GDP, expel about 7.4 million tons of hazardous waste annually, out of which around 3.98 million tons are recyclable for resource or energy recovery. India’s scenario in the usage of alternative fuel and raw material is less than 1%, which reflects a huge quantum of hazardous waste for potential usage in alternative fuel and raw material. The Netherlands, with around 83% of total hazardous waste, is the highest user of hazardous waste as alternative fuel and raw material in cement kilns. Uncontrolled waste management degrades land, ground water and air quality, leading to health risks to humans, animals and the ecosystem. Presently, industrial waste in most cases is disposed to landfills after incineration, without utilizing the full potential of the wastes through recirculation. The present study analyzed the current situation of the treatment facilities for attaining a sustainable management system using waste as alternative fuel and raw material for the disposal of hazardous waste. Through the alternative fuel and raw material concept, hazardous wastes can be used as a substitute for fossil fuels and/or raw material in a few types of industries. This will surely enhance the efficient recirculation of industrial wastes. This paper presents the overall view of Indian hazardous-waste generating industries, their locations, the potential of wastes as alternate sources of fuel to other industries, the use of alternative fuel and raw material by cement industries and applicable regulatory requirements.
A Conceptual Framework Exploring Social Media, Eating Disorders, and Body Dissatisfaction Among Latina Adolescents
Authors: Opara Ijeoma , Santos Noemy
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this review is to propose a conceptual framework using objectification theory and intersectionality theory to examine social media’s influence on body image and its effect on eating disorder predictors among Latina adolescents. To examine and explore how these effects from social media usage can result in mental health disparities that affect this group, emphasis was placed on how Latina ethnic identity mediates body image. Implications for clinicians and researchers include using strengths-based and culturally specific approaches as protective factors for Latina adolescents to strengthen ethnic identity.
Strangers in the Neighborhood: Violence and Neighborhood Boundaries
Authors: Brown Kevin J. , Weil Frederick D.
Published: July 2019

New Orleans experienced elevated rates of violent crime throughout the thirty years between 1985 and 2015. Violence was disproportionately represented in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. This study explores the lived experiences of residents from one such neighborhood, using individual interviews, focus groups, and participant observation. The data indicate that neighborhood boundaries vacillated between rigidly defensive and porous, which impacted residents’ ability to enact collective efficacy and thus to create a milieu that either positively or negatively influenced the likelihood of violence. With a long history of institutional and social neglect, the community initially viewed outsiders as invaders which resulted in rigidly defended boundaries. As the community emerged from social marginalization and was able to enact collective efficacy, its boundaries became more porous and resources flowed into the community. As a result, violence decreased, further enhancing collective efficacy and boundary porosity in a virtuous cycle. This suggests that crime prevention and response models that engage residents and decrease marginalization may decrease cynicism, open boundaries, and improve collective efficacy, thereby reducing neighborhood violence.
Technical considerations on the Takoradi–Cairo air route of the Second World War
Authors: Martínez-Val R
Published: July 2019

This paper describes an initiative of the British War Cabinet to procure thousands of aircraft to Egypt during the crucial, central years of the Second World War. The aircraft were sent crated by cargo ships to Takoradi, in the Gold Coast (current Ghana), assembled at an on-purpose facility there, and flown over Nigeria, Chad, Sudan, and Egypt to the Nile Delta, where appropriate Maintenance Units would deliver them later to fighting squadrons. More than 5000 airplanes were dispatched in this way from British harbors, arriving into the Cairo area just a few weeks later. Most aircraft flown in this trans-African route were fighters, which required fully loaded external drop tanks to cover the longest stages, commonly against prevailing trade winds. The convoys were typically formed by a light bomber, as lead aircraft, and six to eight fighters. The aerodynamic characteristics of the fighters have been modelled with first level preliminary airplane design methods, to reconstruct its performances in the route. The results, in terms of range and cruise speed, agree very well with scarce data available from literature.
Capture and Control: Working Memory Modulates Attentional Capture by Reward-Related Stimuli
Authors: Watson Poppy , Pearson Daniel , Chow Michelle , Theeuwes Jan , Wiers Reinout W. , Most Steven B. , Le Pelley Mike E.
Published: July 2019

Physically salient but task-irrelevant distractors can capture attention in visual search, but resource-dependent, executive-control processes can help reduce this distraction. However, it is not only physically salient stimuli that grab our attention: Recent research has shown that reward history also influences the likelihood that stimuli will capture attention. Here, we investigated whether resource-dependent control processes modulate the effect of reward on attentional capture, much as for the effect of physical salience. To this end, we used eye tracking with a rewarded visual search task and compared performance under conditions of high and low working memory load. In two experiments, we demonstrated that oculomotor capture by high-reward distractor stimuli is enhanced under high memory load. These results highlight the role of executive-control processes in modulating distraction by reward-related stimuli. Our findings have implications for understanding the neurocognitive processes involved in real-life conditions in which reward-related stimuli may influence behavior, such as addiction.
Automated near infrared analyzer validation (ASTM D6122) for the oil and gas industry
Authors: Foulk Susan J , Lerud Ryan
Published: July 2019

Near infrared spectroscopy is a routine measurement and analysis tool for both liquid and solid samples in a wide variety of industries and locations, both process and laboratory. For process measurements analyzer, validation is a key component of a complete measurement system. This short article will describe an automated validation system suitable for near infrared process analyzers.
Federal and State Expenditures for Working-Age People With Disabilities in Fiscal Year 2014
Authors: Livermore Gina , Shenk Marisa , Stapleton David
Published: July 2019

Working-age people with disabilities are a large and growing segment of the U.S. population. Expenditures for a variety of federal and state safety-net programs to support these individuals—such as Social Security Disability Insurance, Supplemental Security Income, Medicare, Medicaid, and numerous others—are also growing. However, because expenditures are fragmented across so many programs, the full size and the extent of their growth have been obscured. For this study, we estimated how much the federal government spent on programs in 2014 to support working-age people with disabilities, and we assessed how the size and composition of those expenditures changed during the two 6-year periods preceding 2014. We found that in 2014, the federal government spent US$498 billion on programs to support the working-age population with disabilities, which represents 14% of all federal outlays. States contributed another US$94 billion under federal–state programs. From 2008 to 2014, inflation-adjusted federal expenditures for this population grew by 30%, nearly the same as observed from 2002 to 2008. Expenditures for health care accounted for half of all expenditures in 2014, up from 47% in 2008 and 46% in 2002, and replacing income assistance as the largest expenditure category.
Active subspace analysis and uncertainty quantification for a polydomain ferroelectric phase-field model
Authors: Leon Lider S , Miles Paul R , Smith Ralph C , Oates William S
Published: July 2019

We perform parameter subset selection and uncertainty analysis for phase-field models that are applied to the ferroelectric material lead titanate. A motivating objective is to determine which parameters are influential in the sense that their uncertainties directly affect the uncertainty in the model response, and fix noninfluential parameters at nominal values for subsequent uncertainty propagation. We employ Bayesian inference to quantify the uncertainties of gradient exchange parameters governing 180° and 90° tetragonal phase domain wall energies. The uncertainties of influential parameters determined by parameter subset selection are then propagated through the models to obtain credible intervals when estimating energy densities quantifying polarization and strain across domain walls. The results illustrate various properties of Landau and electromechanical coupling parameters and their influence on domain wall interactions. We employ energy statistics, which quantify distances between statistical observations, to compare credible intervals constructed using a complete set of parameters against an influential subset of parameters. These intervals are obtained from the uncertainty propagation of the model input parameters on the domain wall energy densities. The investigation provides critical insight into the development of parameter subset selection, uncertainty quantification, and propagation methodologies for material modeling domain wall structure evolution, informed by density functional theory simulations.
Defect evaluation of the honeycomb structures formed during the drilling process
Authors: Ghabezi P , Farahani M , Shahmirzaloo A , Ghorbani H , Harrison NM
Published: July 2019

In this paper, a comprehensive experimental investigation was carried out to precisely characterize the delamination and uncut fiber in the drilling process. A digital imaging procedure was developed in order to calculate the damage resulted from the drilling process. A novel method is proposed in this article based on image intensity to verify the obtained results. A full factorial experimental design was performed to evaluate the importance of the drilling parameters. Among other process parameters, feed rate, cutting speed, and tool diameter are the principal factors responsible for the delamination damage size during the drilling. The drilling process was assessed based on two proposed incurred damage factors, specifically the delamination factor and uncut fiber factor. Experimental results demonstrated that the feed rate was the paramount parameter for both delamination and uncut fiber factors. It was observed that both factors increased with an increase in the feed rate. Additionally, by increasing the tool diameter, the delamination and uncut fiber factors significantly increase. The effects of the cutting speed on damage factors were not linear. The minimum delamination factor and uncut fiber factor were obtained at the cutting speed of 1500 and 2500 r/min, respectively.
Toward a Universal Account of Country-Induced Predispositions: Integrative Framework and Measurement of Country-of-Origin Images and Country Emotions
Authors: Kock Florian , Josiassen Alexander , Assaf A. George
Published: July 2019

Understanding how consumers use a product’s country-of-origin (COO) cue is fundamental to explaining their behavior in a globalized marketplace. While the study of COO is one of the most popular topics in international marketing, the ambiguity regarding its conceptualization, composite nature, operationalization, and measurement deserves further scrutiny. The authors propose an integrative framework that unites two separate areas of research on the COO cue: performance-related COO images and performance-unrelated country emotions. The authors reconcile diverse existing perspectives from both areas into the overarching country-induced predispositions model. Conceptualizations and measurement approaches for the model’s five components are developed and empirically validated across three countries and with five COOs. The model offers researchers and managers with an interest in the COO cue a flexible and operational roadmap, with scales both for in-depth analyses and parsimonious additional testing.
Mandibular Tori Limiting Treatment of Carcinoma of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract
Authors: Low Christopher M , Price Daniel L , Kasperbauer Jan L
Published: July 2019

Background:

Mandibular tori are a rare cause of difficult direct visualization of the upper aerodigestive tract. In the setting of aerodigestive tract pathology necessitating direct visualization, removal of mandibular tori may be required to facilitate treatment.

Methods:

In the first case, large bilateral symmetric mandibular tori were removed to facilitate access to the anterior commissure and removal of a T1 glottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In the second case, large bilateral mandibular tori were removed to access a markedly exophytic SCC in the right vallecula. Subsequently, the tumor was removed with robotic assistance with excellent exposure.

Results:

Both patients were free of recurrence at last follow-up.

Conclusion:

Mandibular tori are an uncommon cause of difficult direct laryngoscopy. In situations that require direct visualization of the anterior commissure or base of tongue for diagnosis and management of lesions, surgical removal of the tori may be required as in the cases presented here.
Luc Boltanski’s pragmatic sociology: A Bourdieusian critique
Authors: Atkinson Will
Published: July 2019

Luc Boltanski’s programme of pragmatic sociology, now gaining substantial attention among English-speaking sociologists, was forged in opposition to the supposed excesses and blind spots of Pierre Bourdieu’s ‘critical sociology’. After outlining the main lines of development of Boltanski’s project and emphasizing the major points of difference with Bourdieu, the article offers a critical Bourdieusian response to pragmatic sociology. It highlights a number of ways in which Boltanski’s position is based on a misreading or distortion of Bourdieu’s ideas, is less unlike Bourdieu’s position than he claims and suffers from analytical shortcomings. This is not to say there is nothing of value in Boltanski’s work, but overall it offers useful pointers to be accommodated rather than a thoroughgoing conceptual revolution.
Experimental study on torsional behavior of spatial main cable for a self-anchored suspension bridge
Authors: Li Chuanxi , Li You , He Jun
Published: July 2019

In order to understand the torsional behavior of the spatial main cable between two saddles for a self-anchored suspension bridge during the transition process from construction state to completed state, a scaled model (1:15) was prepared and tested. First, the cable anchorage system and cable measurement device were designed. Then, a series of model tests under the conditions of different preloading angles and different tensioning forces for hangers were carried out. Finally, the regularity of the torsional properties was revealed on the basis of the measured twist angle of the main cable. The experimental study shows that the transverse pre-deflected angle of the cable clamp has a decisive influence on the torsional angle of the main cable sections near the cable clamp, but for the main cable sections far from the pre-deflected cable clamp, this influence can almost be negligible. The torsional angle changes linearly within adjacent cable clamps. When inclined angle of the hanger is larger than the pre-deflected angle of the cable clamp, the cable clamp will cause the main cable section to twist in the positive direction, otherwise, the result is reverse. With the increase in the hanger force, the direction of hanger force passes through the cross-sectional center of the main cable, resulting in an unchanged twisting angle. In addition, a three-dimensional finite element model of the test specimen was established and used to analyze the influence of pre-deflected angle of a cable clamp on the torsion angle of the main cable, the same results can be found in finite element analyses in comparison with the test results. Therefore, a reasonable pre-deflected angle of cable clamp can be determined by the finite element model in the primary design state before the construction stage.
Influence of indoor temperature and daylight illuminance on visual perception
Authors: Chinazzo G , Wienold J , Andersen M
Published: July 2019

This paper details the results of an experimental study investigating the combined effect of indoor temperature (19 ℃, 23 ℃ and 27 ℃) and horizontal illuminances (∼140 lx, ∼610 lx and ∼1440 lx) on visual perception, with daylight as the only source of light. The goal is to evaluate the cross-modal effect of temperature and the unimodal effect of daylight illuminances on the visual perception of daylight. A 3 × 3 mixed-design experiment was conducted in an office-like test room with 84 participants. Results show that cross-modal effects of indoor temperature on visual perception occurred: Temperature influenced the perceived warmth of daylight, and temperature interacted with daylight illuminance as the high illuminance was considered more pleasant, was better evaluated and was more often chosen than the low one only in a thermally comfortable condition. In terms of unimodal effects, differences in visual comfort evaluations were substantial only between the low and the other two illuminances, suggesting that visual comfort did not increase with illuminance above an already comfortable threshold. Moreover, perceived brightness under the high daylight illuminance was lower than that reported in past studies under a comparable electric light illuminance, leading to the hypothesis that high illuminances might be more tolerated in a naturally-lit environment compared to a space illuminated with electric light. Findings advance the understanding of occupant perceptions of daylit environments and suggest that, together with visual factors, thermal conditions should be considered in visual perception investigations.
Data Analysis and Synthesis Within a Realist Evaluation: Toward More Transparent Methodological Approaches
Authors: Gilmore Brynne , McAuliffe Eilish , Power Jessica , Vallières Frédérique
Published: July 2019

Realist evaluations are increasingly used in the study of complex health interventions. The methodological procedures applied within realist evaluations however are often inexplicit, prompting scholars to call for increased transparency and more detailed description within realist studies. This publication details the data analysis and synthesis process used within two realist evaluation studies of community health interventions taking place across Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Using data from several case studies across all three countries and the data analysis software NVivo, we describe in detail how data were analyzed and subsequently synthesized to refine middle-range theories. We conclude by discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the approach taken, providing novel methodological recommendations. The aim of providing this detailed descriptive account of the analysis and synthesis in these two studies is to promote transparency and contribute to the advancement of realist evaluation methodologies.
Sensorless force estimation of end-effect upper limb rehabilitation robot system with friction compensation
Authors: Liu Xiangxing , Zuo Guokun , Zhang Jiaji , Wang Jiajin
Published: July 2019

In human robot interaction systems, human intent detection plays an important role to improve the interactive performances and then the rehabilitation effects. A study is proposed to estimate the interactive forces that indirectly detect the human motion intent. A disturbance observer is designed to estimate interactive torques and friction forces without force sensors, and then a friction force model is constructed to estimate the friction force in the robot system. To detect the human–robot interaction force, we subtract the friction force from disturbance observer estimation result. Several experiments were performed to test the performances of the proposed methods. Those methods were applied in an end-effect upper limb rehabilitation robot system. The results show that the precision of the estimated sensor force can increase 5% than the force sensor. The senseless force estimation method we proposed in this article can be an alternative option in force control tasks when force sensors are not suitable.
Factors associated with physicians’ predictions of six-month mortality in critically ill patients
Authors: Ferreyro Bruno L , Harhay Michael O , Detsky Michael E
Published: July 2019

Background

Physician's estimates of a patient's prognosis are an important component in shared decision-making. However, the variables influencing physician's judgments are not well understood. We aimed to determine which physician and patient factors are associated with physicians' predictions of critically ill patients' six-month mortality and the accuracy and confidence of these predictions.

Methods

Prospective cohort study evaluating physicians' predictions of six-month mortality. Using univariate and multivariable generalized estimating equations, we assessed the association between baseline physician and patient characteristics with predictions of six-month death, as well as accuracy and confidence of these predictions.

Results

Our cohort was comprised 300 patients and 47 physicians. Physicians were asked to predict if patients would be alive or dead at six months and to report their confidence in these predictions. Physicians predicted that 99 (33%) patients would die. The key factors associated with both the direction and accuracy of prediction were older age of the patient, the presence of malignancy, being in a medical ICU, and higher APACHE III scores. The factors associated with lower confidence included older physician age, being in a medical ICU and higher APACHE III score.

Conclusions

Patient level factors are associated with predictions of mortality at six months. The accuracy and confidence of the predictions are associated with both physician and patients' factors. The influence of these factors should be considered when physicians reflect on how they make predictions for critically ill patients.
In Vitro Antiviral Activity Against Zika Virus From a Natural Product of the Brazilian Brown Seaweed Dictyota menstrualis
Authors: Cirne-Santos Claudio C. , Barros Caroline de S. , Gomes Max W. L. , Gomes Rafaela , Cavalcanti Diana N. , Obando Johana M. C. , Ramos Carlos J. B. , Villaça Roberto C. , Teixeira Valéria L. , Paixão Izabel C. N. de P.
Published: July 2019

Natural products isolated from seaweeds have shown great antiviral potential against numerous viruses such as human type 1 herpes, human immunodeficiency virus, and dengue. Diterpenes produced by the brown seaweeds Dictyota and Canistrocarpus, in particular, have shown antiviral or virucidal activity. Recently, the Zika virus (ZIKV) has become a major public health concern due to its widespread dissemination throughout the Americas. Since no vaccines are available, and no drugs have effectively treated recent cases of infection, our group evaluated products from Dictyota menstrualis for their antiviral potential, alone and in combination with Ribavirin. We first evaluated the compounds’ cytotoxicity at high concentrations, and then evaluated the inhibition of ZIKV replication by crude extracts and acetylated crude extracts and their fractions at 20 μg/mL. The F-6 and FAc-2 fractions, rich in cyclic diterpenes with aldehyde groupings, inhibited ZIKV replication by >74%, with inhibition behaving in a dose-dependent manner and the 50% effective concentration (EC50) values of 2.80 (F-6) and 0.81 (FAc-2) μg/mL. Regarding the mechanism of action, FAc-2 had strong virucidal potential, and F-6 inhibited viral adsorption. Associating FAc-2 with Ribavirin at suboptimal dosages produced a strong synergistic effect that completely inhibited viral replication. Our results indicate that these natural products have excellent inhibitory potential against ZIKV replication and may be promising for developing affective therapies.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG attenuates tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-induced bone loss in male mice via gut-microbiota-dependent anti-inflammation
Authors: Liu Hao , Gu Ranli , Li Wei , Zhou Wen , Cong Zhe , Xue Jing , Liu Yunsong , Wei Qiang , Zhou Yongsheng
Published: July 2019

Background:

Although antiretroviral agents trigger bone loss in human immunodeficiency virus patients, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) induces more severe bone damage, such as osteoporosis. While, the mechanisms are unclear, probiotic supplements may be effective against osteoporosis.

Methods:

C57BL6/J mice were administered with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)+TDF, TDF, and zoledronic acid+TDF, respectively. Bone morphometry and biomechanics were evaluated using microcomputed tomography, bone slicing, and flexural tests. The lymphocyte, proinflammatory cytokines, and intestinal permeability levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry. The gut microbiota composition and metabolomics were analyzed using 16S recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid pyrosequencing and ultra-performance liquid-chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Results:

LGG administered orally induced marked increases in trabecular bone microarchitecture, cortical bone volume, and biomechanical properties in the LGG+TDF group compared with that in the TDF-only group. Moreover, LGG treatment increased intestinal barrier integrity, expanded regulatory T cells, decreased Th17 cells, and downregulated osteoclastogenesis-related cytokines in the bone marrow, spleen, and gut. Furthermore, LGG reconstructed the gut microbiota and changed the metabolite composition, especially lysophosphatidylcholine levels. However, the amount of N-acetyl-leukotriene E4 was the highest in the TDF-only group.

Conclusion:

LGG reconstructed the community structure of the gut microbiota, promoted the expression of lysophosphatidylcholines, and improved intestinal integrity to suppress the TDF-induced inflammatory response, which resulted in attenuation of TDF-induced bone loss in mice. LGG probiotics may be a safe and effective strategy to prevent and treat TDF-induced osteoporosis.
At the Intersection of Rigor and Equity: Health Disparities Research Related to Aging
Authors: Hill Carl V.
Published: July 2019

Aging in the United States will be defined by differences in health and longevity among populations. Diversity among the aged population is expected to increase. While investigators must contend with generalizability to enhance rigor, biomedical research holds great promise in exploring determinants of health for populations groups. Biomedical research explores the impact of various determinants on health and longevity. Health disparities research related to aging serves as an important scientific approach for researchers to maintain clarity in generalizability, with a focus on a breadth of determinants in multiple levels of analysis. Moreover, health disparities research related to aging holds the biomedical research enterprise accountable to principles of equity for understanding and addresing the health and aging of disproportionately affected population groups in society.
STAT3β is a tumor suppressor in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Aigner Petra , Mizutani Tatsuaki , Horvath Jaqueline , Eder Thomas , Heber Stefan , Lind Karin , Just Valentin , Moll Herwig P. , Yeroslaviz Assa , Fischer Michael J. M. , Kenner Lukas , Győrffy Balázs , Sill Heinz , Grebien Florian , Moriggl Richard , Casanova Emilio , Stoiber Dagmar
Published: July 2019

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) exists in 2 alternatively spliced isoforms, STAT3α and STAT3β. Although truncated STAT3β was originally postulated to act as a dominant-negative form of STAT3α, it has been shown to have various STAT3α-independent regulatory functions. Recently, STAT3β gained attention as a powerful antitumorigenic molecule in cancer. Deregulated STAT3 signaling is often found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML); however, the role of STAT3β in AML remains elusive. Therefore, we analyzed the STAT3β/α messenger RNA (mRNA) expression ratio in AML patients, where we observed that a higher STAT3β/α mRNA ratio correlated with a favorable prognosis and increased overall survival. To gain better understanding of the function of STAT3β in AML, we engineered a transgenic mouse allowing for balanced Stat3β expression. Transgenic Stat3β expression resulted in decelerated disease progression and extended survival in PTEN- and MLL-AF9–dependent AML mouse models. Our findings further suggest that the antitumorigenic function of STAT3β depends on the tumor-intrinsic regulation of a small set of significantly up- and downregulated genes, identified via RNA sequencing. In conclusion, we demonstrate that STAT3β plays an essential tumor-suppressive role in AML.
Compliance among infants exposed to hepatitis B virus in a post-vaccination serological testing program in four provinces in China
Authors: Zheng Hui , Zhang Guo-Min , Chan Po-Lin , Wang Fu-Zhen , Rodewald Lance Everett , Miao Ning , Sun Xiao-Jin , Yin Zun-Dong , Edwards Jeffrey , Wang Hua-Qing
Published: July 2019

Background

Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains the most common form of HBV infection in China. Prevention of HBV vertical transmission involves timely administration of the complete hepatitis B vaccine (HepB) series and hepatitis B immunoglobulin. Post-vaccination serological testing (PVST) is utilized to determine an infant’s outcome after HBV exposure and completion of HepB series. We aim to determine the frequency of compliance with a PVST testing cascade for HBV infected mothers and analyze factors associated with infant lost to follow up (LTFU).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort review of previously collected data in Fujian, Jiangxi, Zhejiang and Chongqing provinces in China from 1 June 2016–31 December 2017. The study population included all HBV-exposed infants and their mothers. SAS software was used for statistical analyses. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses (presented in odds ratio [OR] with 95% confidence intervals [CI]) were used to compare the proportional differences of factors associated with PVST not being completed.

Results

Among enrolled 8474 target infants, 40% of them transferred out of the study provinces without further information and 4988 were eligible for PVST. We found 20% (994) of infants were not compliant with the testing cascade: 55% of LTFU occurred because parents refused venous blood sample collection or failure of sample collection in the field, 16% transferred out after 6 months of age, and 10% of families chose to have independent, confidential PVST completed without reporting results. High PVST noncompliance rates were more likely to be from Fujian (aOR = 17.0, 95% CI: 9.7–29.9), Zhejiang (aOR = 5.7, 95% CI: 3.2–10.1) and Jiangxi (aOR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.0–3.4), and from HBV e antigen positive mother (aOR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.1–1.4).

Conclusions

This study found that the LTFU rate reached 20% in PVST program, which was a significant problem. We recommend implementing a national electronic information system for tracking HBV at risk mother-infant pairs; encourage further research in developing a less invasive means of completing PVST, and take effective measures nationally to reduce HBV stigma. Without reducing the loss to follow up rate among infants eligible for PVST, elimination of vertical HBV transmission will be impossible.