bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Observed Inverse Relationship between Rainfall Amount and Dissolved Mineral Content
Authors: Stout John E.
Published: April 2019

Rainfall samples collected on the high plains of West Texas exhibit a high degree of variability with respect to the concentration of dissolved solids. That such variations should occur is to be expected, but there remains some uncertainty regarding factors that influence the ionic composition of individual samples. Measurements often show a distinct decrease in concentration with increasing precipitation amount. The reason for this inverse relationship is not intuitively obvious; however, it can be explained from a theoretical perspective. A theory was proposed that describes the concentration of dissolved solids in a collected rainfall sample. The theoretical basis of the derived equation rests upon fundamental principles of conservation of fluid volume and conservation of mass. This equation, which provides valuable insight into the process, suggests that if the rain sampling tube is absolutely clean at the start of a rain event, then the rainfall sample will not be altered by its collection and, therefore, will provide a true measure of rainfall chemistry. However, if windblown dust or other impurities are allowed to deposit in the rain gauge prior to or during the early stages of a rain event, then the concentration of dissolved solids can be very large for small sample volumes and not at all representative of the true concentration within the rain cloud. Results suggest that impurities in the rain sample can be appreciably diluted by the addition of relatively pure rainwater such that the concentration will asymptotically approach the true concentration as the rainfall sample volume increases.
Generation of Internal Lee Waves by Lateral Circulation in a Coastal Plain Estuary
Authors: Xie Xiaohui , Li Ming
Published: April 2019

Recent mooring observations at a cross-channel section in Chesapeake Bay showed that internal solitary waves regularly appeared during certain phases of a tidal cycle and propagated from the deep channel to the shallow shoal. It was hypothesized that these waves resulted from the nonlinear steepening of internal lee waves generated by lateral currents over channel-shoal topography. In this study numerical modeling is conducted to investigate the interaction between lateral circulation and cross-channel topography and discern the generation mechanism of the internal lee waves. During ebb tides, lateral bottom Ekman forcing drives a counterclockwise (looking into estuary) lateral circulation, with strong currents advecting stratified water over the western flank of the deep channel and producing large isopycnal displacements. When the lateral flow becomes supercritical with respect to mode-2 internal waves, a mode-2 internal lee wave is generated on the flank of the deep channel and subsequently propagates onto the western shoal. When the bottom lateral flow becomes near-critical or supercritical with respect to mode-1 internal waves, the lee wave evolves into an internal hydraulic jump. On the shallow shoal, the lee waves or jumps evolve into internal bores of elevation.
Decomposition of Vertical Velocity for Nutrient Transport in the Upper Ocean
Authors: Freilich Mara A. , Mahadevan Amala
Published: April 2019

Within the pycnocline, where diapycnal mixing is suppressed, both the vertical movement (uplift) of isopycnal surfaces and upward motion along sloping isopycnals supply nutrients to the euphotic layer, but the relative importance of each of these mechanisms is unknown. We present a method for decomposing vertical velocity w into two components in a Lagrangian frame: vertical velocity along sloping isopycnal surfaces and the adiabatic vertical velocity of isopycnal surfaces . We show that , where is the isopycnal slope and is the geometric aspect ratio of the flow, and that accounts for 10%–25% of the total vertical velocity w for isopycnal slopes representative of the midlatitude pycnocline. We perform the decomposition of w in a process study model of a midlatitude eddying flow field generated with a range of isopycnal slopes. A spectral decomposition of the velocity components shows that while is the largest contributor to vertical velocity, is of comparable magnitude at horizontal scales less than about 10 km, that is, at submesoscales. Increasing the horizontal grid resolution of models is known to increase vertical velocity; this increase is disproportionately due to better resolution of , as is shown here by comparing 1- and 4-km resolution model runs. Along-isopycnal vertical transport can be an important contributor to the vertical flux of tracers, including oxygen, nutrients, and chlorophyll, although we find weak covariance between vertical velocity and nutrient anomaly in our model.
Drug-Eluting Stent Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Diabetic Patients With Multivessel and/or Left Main Coronary Artery Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cui Kongyong , Lyu Shuzheng , Song Xiantao , Liu Hong , Yuan Fei , Xu Feng , Zhang Min , Wang Wei , Zhang Mingduo , Zhang Dongfeng , Tian Jinfan
Published: April 2019

With the development of stent design and surgical techniques, the relative benefit of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with diabetes and complex coronary artery disease are highly debated. This meta-analysis was conducted to compare the outcomes of drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation and CABG in these cohorts. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to January 4, 2018, was performed. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs), subgroup analysis from RCTs, or adjusted observational studies were eligible. Five RCTs and 13 adjusted observational studies involving 17 532 patients were included. Overall, PCI with DES was significantly associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-1.29), myocardial infarction (MI; HR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.43-2.00), and repeat revascularization (HR: 3.77, 95% CI: 2.76-5.16) compared with CABG. Nevertheless, the risk of stroke was significantly lower in the DES group (HR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.54-0.83). The incidence of the composite end point of death, MI, or stroke was comparable between the 2 groups (HR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.84-1.17). Despite the higher risk of stroke, CABG was better than PCI with DES for diabetic patients with multivessel and/or left main coronary artery disease.
Harmonised collection of data in youth mental health: Towards large datasets
Authors: Lavoie Suzie , Allott Kelly , Amminger Paul , Bartholomeusz Cali , Berger Maximus , Breakspear Michael , Henders Anjali K , Lee Rico , Lin Ashleigh , McGorry Patrick , Rice Simon , Schmaal Lianne , Wood Stephen J
Published: April 2019

Objective:

The current international trend is to create large datasets with existing data and/or deposit newly collected data into repositories accessible to the scientific community. These practices lead to more efficient data sharing, better detection of small effects, modelling of confounders, establishment of sample generalizability and identification of differences between any given disorders. In Australia, to facilitate such data-sharing and collaborative opportunities, the Neurobiology in Youth Mental Health Partnership was created. This initiative brings together specialised researchers from around Australia to work towards a better understanding of the cross-diagnostic neurobiology of youth mental health and the translation of this knowledge into clinical practice. One of the mandates of the partnership was to develop a protocol for harmonised prospective collection of data across research centres in the field of youth mental health in order to create large datasets.

Methods:

Four key research modalities were identified: clinical assessments, brain imaging, neurocognitive assessment and collection of blood samples. This paper presents the consensus set of assessments/data collection that has been selected by experts in each domain.

Conclusion:

The use of this core set of data will facilitate the pooling of psychopathological and neurobiological data into large datasets allowing researchers to tackle important questions requiring very large numbers. The aspiration of this transdiagnostic approach is a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying mental illnesses.
Bending the Rules or Changing Them? MNE Responses to Institutional Challenges in Transition Economies
Authors: Yu Jisun , Lee Seung-Hyun
Published: April 2019

We investigate what determines a multinational enterprise’s (MNE) propensity to engage in lobbying and bribing in host countries where the overall institutional development for market exchanges is insufficient, and thus, their governance systems are relatively weak. We extend the current literature on institutional strategies by theorizing and showing the persistent and significant impacts of home country institutions on an MNE’s choice of influencing activities to address institutional constraints overseas. More specifically, our results demonstrate that the MNEs from a home country with a stronger governance system are less involved in bribery, but have a higher tendency to lobby in transition economy countries, which have been characterized by relatively weaker institutional development, particularly in the area of governance. This tendency still holds even when these MNEs rely more on the local market for sales. We draw theoretical and practical implications from these observations.
Comparing executive functioning and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of people with schizophrenia who hold a driver’s license to those who do not
Authors: Hellinger Nurit , Lipskaya-Velikovsky Lena , Weizman Abraham , Ratzon Navah Z.
Published: April 2019

Background.

Community engagement requires driving. However, there is paucity of research focusing on the potential to drive for people with schizophrenia.

Purpose.

This study aimed to characterize people with schizophrenia by comparing clinical signs, executive functions (EF), and sociodemographic aspects of those holding a driver’s license to those without one.

Method.

This cross-sectional study used convenience sampling to select 60 ambulatory individuals to participate: 31 with a driver’s license and 29 without one. They completed the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) for evaluation of EF and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for symptoms severity evaluation. Data were analyzed using multivariate analyses of covariance and logistic regression models.

Findings.

Participants with a license had less severe negative symptoms and general psychopathology and better EF and sociodemographic aspects compared to those without a license. Logistic regression revealed significant odds ratios (OR) in general psychopathology (PANSS; OR = 0.963, p = .011) and in the WCST (OR = 0.504, p = .027).

Implications.

This study offers occupational therapists a data-driven perspective on evaluating potential fitness to drive to enable participation in daily life and well-being of people with schizophrenia.
How Principals Use a New Accountability System to Promote Change in Teacher Practices: Evidence From Italy
Authors: Paletta Angelo , Basyte Ferrari Egle , Alimehmeti Genc
Published: April 2019

Purpose: In Italy, only recently education policy makers have introduced a requirement for schools to implement the processes of self-evaluation, strategic planning and results’ reporting. In this article, we aim to explore how the new leadership approach of school principals in the context of the introduction of the new accountability system is affecting the practices of teachers. Research Method: Using quantitative data from an empirical study focused on the primary and secondary schools involved in a ministerial pilot project “School Evaluation and Development,” (VALES), we employ multilevel structural equation modelling to test the relationships among principal leadership, school capacity building (represented by the variables such as teacher self-efficacy, instructional leadership of teachers, collaborative culture and supportive learning climate) and change in teachers’ professional practices as well as teaching methods. Findings: A positive indirect relationship between principal leadership and change in teachers’ practices and methods is shown. The indirect effects are mainly a result of increased teachers’ instructional leadership. Implications: The research suggests that principals have a central role in building organizational capacity for school improvement by using self-evaluation and improvement processes. Moreover, the sharing of leadership with teachers appears to be crucial in promoting change in teaching and teacher commitment to improving professional practices. Results of this study draw attention to the following aspects: the importance of promoting principals’ leadership for learning development, adoption of a balanced approach to principals’ performance evaluation, and fostering the distribution of leadership in schools.
An improved high-precision subdivision algorithm for single-track absolute encoder using machine vision techniques
Authors: Yuan Pengfei , Huang Daqing , Lei Zhongkui
Published: April 2019

In order to achieve high-precision and robust measurement for a single-track absolute encoder, an improved subdivision algorithm based on machine vision technology is proposed. First, the composite subdivision algorithm combining RANdom SAmple Consensus and least square estimation is introduced. Second, the proposed algorithm is proved to be high-precision and effective to remove fault error from signal noise and spot by simulation. Finally, real test results show that the algorithm output angle stably achieves precision within 2.5 arc-seconds and accuracy up to 1.6 arc-seconds. Research results provide a high-precision and robust subdivision algorithm that is improved by modern machine vision technology of RANdom SAmple Consensus and it can be applied in the field of absolute angle sensor in the future.
Prediction of queuing length at metering roundabout using adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system
Authors: An Hong Ki , Abdalla Ahmed N
Published: April 2019

A metering roundabout where traffic is controlled by signals where phase times are influenced by queue detector occupancy may be the solution to reduce queue lengths under unbalanced traffic flows. In the past decades, a number of studies have attempted to evaluate the effectiveness of metering roundabout, especially on the dominant approach. Little studies, however, have been directed on prediction of the queuing lengths, which is essential to determine the detector locations. This paper introduces a queue length estimation model using adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system for unbalanced roundabout traffic flows. The adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system model consists of an input layer representing four parameters as arrival volumes, conflicting volumes, phase green and red time, and output layer with four neuron representing queuing length. MATLAB software and additional statistical tests were used as the tool to develop the models for the data. In order to conduct credible model validations, model output data were compared against the observed data collected using drones. The results from the analysis demonstrated that adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system model is able to estimate the queuing length at metering roundabouts. Thus, it is expected that the adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system model will help practitioners in determining optimal detector locations and will be a foundation research for roundabouts with signals.
A new protection scheme for PQ events prediction and classification in distribution system: A SSO-ANN strategy
Authors: Karthikumar K , Senthil Kumar V , Karuppiah M
Published: April 2019

Increased utilization of nonlinear loads and fault event on the power system have resulted in a decline in the quality of power provided to the customers. It is fundamental to recognize and distinguish the power quality disturbances in the distribution system. To recognize and distinguish the power quality disturbances, the development of high protection schemes is required. This paper presents an optimal protection scheme for power quality event prediction and classification in the distribution system. The proposed protection scheme combines the performance of both the salp swarm optimization and artificial neural network. Here, artificial neural network is utilized in two phases with the objective function of prediction and classification of the power quality events. The first phase is utilized for recognizing the healthy or unhealthy condition of the system under various situations. Artificial neural network is utilized to perceive the system signal’s healthy or unhealthy condition under different circumstances. In the second phase, artificial neural network performs the classification of the unhealthy signals to recognize the right power quality event for assurance. In this phase, the artificial neural network learning method is enhanced by utilizing salp swarm optimization based on the minimum error objective function. The proposed method performs an assessment procedure to secure the system and classify the optimal power quality event which occurs in the distribution system. At that point, the proposed work is executed in the MATLAB/Simulink platform and the performance of the proposed system is compared with different existing techniques like Multiple Signal Classification-Artificial Neural Network (MUSIC-ANN), and Genetic Algorithm - Artificial Neural Network (GA-ANN). The comparison results demonstrate the superiority of the SSO-ANN technique and confirm its potential to power quality event prediction and classification.
Hybrid fault tolerant control for air–fuel ratio control of internal combustion gasoline engine using Kalman filters with advanced redundancy
Authors: Amin Arslan Ahmed , Mahmood-ul-Hasan Khalid
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a hybrid fault tolerant control system is proposed for air–fuel ratio control of internal combustion gasoline engines based on Kalman filters and triple modular redundancy. Hybrid fault tolerant control system possesses properties of both active fault tolerant control system and passive fault tolerant control system. As part of active fault tolerant control system, fault detection and isolation unit is designed using Kalman filters to provide estimated values of the sensors to the engine controller in case of faults in the sensors. As part of passive fault tolerant control system, a dedicated proportional–integral feedback controller is incorporated to maintain air–fuel ratio by adjusting the throttle actuator in the fuel supply line in faulty and noisy conditions for robustness to faults and sensors’ noise. Redundancy is proposed in the sensors and actuators as a simultaneous failure of more than one sensor, and failure of the single actuator will cause the engine shutdown. Advanced redundancy protocol triple modular redundancy is proposed for the sensors and dual redundancy is proposed for actuators. Simulation results in the MATLAB Simulink environment show that the proposed system remains stable during faults in the sensors and actuators. It also maintains air–fuel ratio without any degradation in the faulty conditions and is robust to noise. Finally, the probabilistic reliability analysis of the proposed model is carried out. The study shows that the proposed hybrid fault tolerant control system with redundant components presents a novel and highly reliable solution for the air–fuel ratio control in internal combustion engines to prevent engine shutdown and production loss for greater profits.
Improvement of foamed part surface quality with variothermal temperature control and analysis of the mechanical properties
Authors: Hopmann Christian , Lammert Nicolai , Zhang Yuxiao
Published: April 2019

Thermoplastic foam injection molding offers various advantages for both processing and product design. Despite its many benefits, the moderate surface quality still constitutes a major disadvantage of this process. A variothermal mold temperature control enables the improvement of the surface quality. Different dynamic temperature control strategies are employed and analyzed regarding their effectiveness and scope of application. Mold temperatures above the specific material transition temperatures allow the surface defects to be cured and enable the production of foamed thermoplastic parts with surface qualities comparable to those of the compact reference samples. The high mold temperatures during the injection phase alter the foam structure and the skin layer thicknesses, which impacts the mechanical properties.
Place Spirituality in the imaginary locus
Authors: Basu Jayanti
Published: April 2019

This commentary on the target article underscores the need to examine the imagined trajectory of Place Spirituality, where person attachment and attachment to place through prior exposure are minimum or absent. Examples of such place attachment through sheer spiritual imagination or belief have been provided. It is further argued that while Place Spirituality may be complex, the exact developmental trajectory of Place Spirituality has not been investigated and requires future research attention. The model of transitional phenomenon and transitional space by Donald Winnicott has been presented as a possible explanatory model.
The Archive for the Psychology of Religion
Authors: Ladd Kevin L.
Published: April 2019

As the Archive for the Psychology of Religion transitions to the SAGE publishing house, this editorial outlines the current vision and principles guiding the way forward. This includes a strong emphasis on publishing work that demonstrates transparency, precision, breadth, and depth in areas of theory, research, and pedagogy. The primary article types are described and the submission practicalities are addressed.
Staging romance across the Channel: French–English exchanges and generic common ground
Authors: Hillman Richard
Published: April 2019

This article explores a number of neglected cross-connections between English romantic drama from about 1585 to 1615, notably including Shakespeare’s last plays, and the French tragicomic tradition as it evolved prior to and beyond these dates. I suggest that dramatic and non-dramatic French models played a considerable part alongside Italian ones in stimulating development of what might be termed ‘tragedy with a happy ending’ in England, and that English texts, in turn, fed back into French practice. Attention is given to the precedent for key aspects of Pericles provided by François de Belleforest’s version of the Apollonius of Tyre romance.
Maternal Resilience as a Protective Factor Between Financial Stress and Child Outcomes
Authors: Seely Hayley D. , Mickelson Kristin D.
Published: April 2019

The physical, mental, and behavioral impact of living in poverty is significant; research shows that individuals who experience financial stress in childhood are more likely to suffer from impaired mental health and continue experiencing similar stressors in adulthood. Less clear is the role of maternal resilience on child outcomes in the face of financial stress. The current study focused on maternal resilience as a moderator between objective financial stress and child outcomes. Additionally, we proposed that subjective financial stress would mediate the interaction between maternal resilience and objective financial stress on child outcomes. To test these hypotheses, we utilized data from the Mothers’ Outcomes Matter Study in which 116 low-income mothers were interviewed about their stress, resilience, and their child’s mental, behavioral, and physical outcomes. Results suggest that maternal self-esteem and mastery buffer the relationship between objective financial stress and child outcomes, but subjective financial stress did not mediate the association.
The piano pedagogy scenes in India and the Philippines: An introductory cross-cultural comparison
Authors: Dumlavwalla Diana T
Published: April 2019

Categorized as developing nations, India and the Philippines are not generally known as centers for piano study. There has been little research investigating the traditions of piano education in these nations. In this study, I examined a number of issues related to piano pedagogy in each country. Data were collected from teachers in India ( n = 45) and the Philippines ( n = 28), who completed a 29-item questionnaire. Additionally, three instructors from India and one instructor from the Philippines were interviewed to gain further insight. A summary and comparison of the availability of piano instruction for pre-college students were outlined and opportunities for teacher support and professional development were explored. I looked at the current professional practices, the types of pedagogical methodologies and materials used in each country, the quality and types of pianos and keyboard instruments available, as well as the practice expectations and environments of students. How each country’s system of piano education adopts Western influence and observes their respective traditions is also presented. It is hoped that this research will lead to more in-depth investigation about these countries’ teaching practices and provide additional perspectives for pedagogues around the world.
Canonized repertoire as conduit to creativity
Authors: West Julia Maurine
Published: April 2019

Evidence found throughout the history of Western European art music reveals traditions that encompassed improvisation. This furthers the idea that without improvisation, music education based on canonized works of Western European art music is incomplete. When the goal of music education is to preserve works exactly as notated, improvisation occupies a marginal role in representations and practices commonly associated with the canon. Drawing upon participant observation and semi-structured interviews, this ethnographic case study investigates narratives of experience and pedagogical strategies of two Dalcroze music teacher-participants who treat canonized repertoire as an impetus to creative thought. Field sites included a kindergarten and an adult music class. Several themes emerged from the data analysis, providing a basis for understanding how previous experiences influence classroom practices and pedagogical strategies for opening creative processes in interaction with canonical repertoire. Findings show that the teacher-participants consider improvisation as inextricably linked to other musical processes and conceive of teaching itself as improvisation, treating features of repertoire as material for creative development. By revealing pedagogical practices that offer exceptions to an established model, this study illuminates patterns of interaction that challenge a widespread view of music education based on Western European art music as enacting static preservation.
Cardiorespiratory fitness, visceral fat, and body fat, but not dietary inflammatory index, are related to C-reactive protein in cancer survivors
Authors: Christensen Matthew A , Smoak Peter , Lisano Jonathon K , Hayward Reid , Coronado Craig , Kage Katie , Shackelford Daniel , Stewart Laura K
Published: April 2019

Background:

The control of chronic inflammation has emerged as a target for improving the health of cancer survivors (CS).

Aim:

To examine differences in fitness and dietary characteristics of CS when grouped by low vs. moderate to high serum C-reactive protein (CRP).

Methods:

CS ( N = 26, mean age = 68 ± 12 years) were evaluated for body mass index (BMI), body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, dietary intake, dietary inflammatory index (DII), and serum CRP. Participants were assigned to one of two groups based on serum CRP concentrations: low CRP (≤1 mg/L) (LWC; n = 13) or moderate to high (CRP > 1 mg/L) (MHC; n = 13) and t-tests compared them. Data are presented as mean ± SD.

Results:

LWC had higher VO2peak values (mL/kg/min) ( p = 0.0003), and lower visceral fat area (cm2) ( p = 0.02) and body fat mass (kg) ( p = 0.04). Secondary analysis using Pearson’s correlation coefficients, including all current study participant data, found significant negative relationships between CRP and total dietary fat intake ( p = 0.02), saturated fat ( p = 0.03), and polyunsaturated fat ( p = 0.03).

Conclusion:

CS with moderate to high serum CRP concentrations had higher fat mass, visceral fat mass, and lower cardiorespiratory fitness. There was a significant negative relationship between dietary, fat, polyunsaturated and saturated fat, and CRP. However, these dietary fat related findings warrant further investigation. To summarize, improving cardiorespiratory fitness, maintaining lower body fat, may be helpful in altering chronic inflammation in CS.
“We now fly”: Perspectives of adults who are blind with guide dogs trained for running
Authors: Lieberman Lauren J , Haibach-Beach Pamela S , Sherwood Jenna , Trad Alyssa
Published: April 2019

Individuals with visual impairments lead less active lifestyles than their sighted counterparts. Reduced physical activity in this population can be attributed to a lack of opportunities combined with fewer intervention opportunities, less experience in sport and recreational activities, and decreased perceived motor competence. Furthermore, individuals with visual impairments report lower values in all domains of quality of life when compared with their sighted counterparts. Therefore, it is imperative that opportunities are developed to increase self-determination leading to higher levels of physical activity for individuals with visual impairments. Running is a popular physical activity for active individuals; however, there are many barriers to running for individuals with visual impairments. To increase these opportunities, a school for guide dogs has recently started training guide dogs to run. The purpose of this study was to determine the perspectives of adults with visual impairments on their experiences running with trained running guide dogs. Ten adults who are blind were interviewed on phone by two researchers. Qualitative research questions were validated by two adults who are blind, three specialists in adapted physical education, and one guide dog trainer. Interviews were transcribed, and themes were extracted by three of the authors. The four major themes that emerged from this research study were (1) running guide dogs’ contribution to mental and physical health, (2) independence as a result of running with a guide dog, (3) The dog is key to increased/improved running, and (4) barriers and supporters to running. Our results indicate that there are numerous positive effects that a running guide dog has on the health, independence, and quality of life of individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The results indicated that making running guide dogs available could provide increased self-determination for adults who choose to take advantage of this program leading to a healthier lifestyle.
Children-in-laws’ message processing: Associations among uncertainty, perceived topic avoidance, goal inferences, and martial satisfaction
Authors: Mikucki-Enyart Sylvia L.
Published: April 2019

Uncertainty is germane to the in-law experience. Although associations between in-law’s doubts and message production are well documented, less is known about how in-law’s uncertainty corresponds with their message processing and how these evaluations associate with relational outcomes. Weaving theorizing on uncertainty and goal detection, the present study examined associations between children-in-law’s uncertainty, message processing, and marital satisfaction. Self-report, survey data from children-in-law ( n = 199) revealed that their uncertainty corresponds with biased appraisals of their parents-in-law’s communication, specifically perceived topic avoidance and the goals undergirding their avoidant communication (i.e., goal inferences). Additionally, perceived topic avoidance rather than uncertainty shared a stronger association with goal inferences. Finally, goal inferences were directly and indirectly associated with children-in-law’s marital satisfaction. Results are interpreted in light of their theoretical and practical contributions.
Complex urban dataset with multi-level sensors from highly diverse urban environments
Authors: Jeong Jinyong , Cho Younggun , Shin Young-Sik , Roh Hyunchul , Kim Ayoung
Published: April 2019

The high diversity of urban environments, at both the inter and intra levels, poses challenges for robotics research. Such challenges include discrepancies in urban features between cities and the deterioration of sensor measurements within a city. With such diversity in consideration, this paper aims to provide Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and image data acquired in complex urban environments. In contrast to existing datasets, the presented dataset encapsulates various complex urban features and addresses the major issues of complex urban areas, such as unreliable and sporadic Global Positioning System (GPS) data, multi-lane roads, complex building structures, and the abundance of highly dynamic objects. This paper provides two types of LiDAR sensor data (2D and 3D) as well as navigation sensor data with commercial-level accuracy and high-level accuracy. In addition, two levels of sensor data are provided for the purpose of assisting in the complete validation of algorithms using consumer-grade sensors. A forward-facing stereo camera was utilized to capture visual images of the environment and the position information of the vehicle that was estimated through simultaneous localization mapping (SLAM) are offered as a baseline. This paper presents 3D map data generated by the SLAM algorithm in the LASer (LAS) format for a wide array of research purposes, and a file player and a data viewer have been made available via the Github webpage to allow researchers to conveniently utilize the data in a Robot Operating System (ROS) environment. The provided file player is capable of sequentially publishing large quantities of data, similar to the rosbag player. The dataset in its entirety can be found at http://irap.kaist.ac.kr/dataset .
Combination of apatinib mesylate and second-line chemotherapy for treating gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Bin , Lu Chaoyun , Sun Zheng , Qu Caiping , Chen Ji , Hua Zhaolai , Tong Ruimin , Zhang Junfeng
Published: April 2019

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of acitinib mesylate combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma.

Methods

A total of 119 patients with gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma were enrolled and randomized into an experimental group (n = 60) and a control group (n = 59). Both groups were treated with a combination of taxane, irinotecan and fluorouracil, while the experimental group also received acitinib mesylate. The clinical efficacy, survival time and adverse reactions of patients in two groups were recorded and analyzed.

Results

The total remission rate in the experimental group and the control group was 15.79% and 3.23%, respectively; the disease control rate was 73.68% and 54.84%, respectively; and progression-free survival was 3.72 months (1–13.5 months) and 3.04 months (1–6 months), respectively. Overall survival was 13.66 months (5–24 months) and 10.08 months (6.5–19.5 months), in the experimental group and the control group, respectively. In addition, the incidence of adverse events in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group.

Conclusion

Apatinib mesylate combined with chemotherapy for the treatment of patients with gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma was safe and effective, with improved survival benefit compared with control.
Neuro-Behçet’s syndrome with a severe ocular lesion
Authors: Han Dan , Ma Bo , Liu Peng , Luo Guogang , Song Wenfeng
Published: April 2019

Behçet’s syndrome (BS) is an idiopathic, chronic, relapsing, multisystem, vascular-inflammatory disease. Neuro-Behçet’s syndrome (NBS) is a subtype of BS that mainly involves the central nervous system. Because of the heterogeneous involvement of NBS and the limited yearly numbers of new cases of NBS, estimating its course, prognosis, and treatment effect is difficult. Therefore, the efficacy of treatment for any form of NBS is unclear. We experienced a male patient with NBS and severe right uveitis. He received high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (1000 mg/day) pulse therapy for 3 days. Intravenous injection of cyclophosphamide (400 mg, twice a day) and oral administration of prednisone (40 mg in the morning, 20 mg in the evening) were applied. Uveitis was treated with retrobulbar injection of triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg per week). The patient’s response was rapid with improved symptoms and signs. The therapeutic regimen of patients with BS has greatly advanced, leading to evidence-based guidelines. Methylprednisolone pulse therapy is important in treatment of BS. Novel therapeutic options are currently being examined to improve the prognosis of BS. These efforts will undoubtedly shed new light on this complex syndrome.
Predisposing factors for hypoglycaemia in the emergency department
Authors: Su Yu-Jang , Liao Chia-Jung
Published: April 2019

Objective

Hypoglycaemia is a common complication of diabetes mellitus. Previous studies suggest that hypoglycaemic episodes may occur with other comorbidities, influencing the outcome of recovery. Recognising the predisposing factors for hypoglycaemic episodes in the emergency department is important. Therefore, we investigated the characteristics of and predisposing factors for hypoglycaemia in the emergency department.

Methods

Data from 186 patients were retrospectively collected from a medical centre in northern Taiwan. We divided the patients into the advanced-age group (132 patients) and the younger group (54 patients). Associated data collected for statistical analysis included vital signs on arrival, first measured blood glucose level, laboratory results, related comorbidities, length of hospital stay, and survival to discharge.

Results

Hypoglycaemia was more frequently observed in women in the advanced-age group than in the younger group. Tachycardia and elevated systolic blood pressure were less predominant in the advanced-age group than younger group. More patients in the advanced-age group had concurrent infection, and more patients in the younger group had liver dysfunction, elevated liver enzymes, liver cirrhosis, and concurrent stroke.

Conclusions

Closer attention should be paid to the possibility of infection in patients of advanced age. Liver disease and stroke need to be ruled out in younger patients.
Development of a Model of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea in Microminipigs
Authors: Kawaguchi Hiroaki , Horie Masayuki , Onoue Koki , Noguchi Michiko , Akioka Kohei , Masatani Tatsunori , Miura Naoki , Ozawa Makoto , Tanimoto Akihide
Published: April 2019

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) induces an often fatal gastrointestinal disease in piglets. In this study, we performed a PEDV infection experiment with the Microminipig, the smallest of experimental minipigs, as a novel small animal model. We orally inoculated a neonatal Microminipig with an intestinal homogenate of a PEDV-infected pig and housed it in a small cage originally designed for rats in an animal biosafety level 2 facility. The infected Microminipig showed the typical signs of porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED), such as watery diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight loss. We also recognized a high amount of excreted PEDV in its rectal swabs and villus atrophy of the small intestine. These results suggest that the Microminipig is a good small animal model for PED, which may contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of PEDV.
What is smart? A real estate introduction to cities and buildings in the digital era
Authors: Lecomte Patrick
Published: April 2019

This article introduces the concepts of smart cities and smart buildings from the viewpoint of commercial real estate. It summarizes the current academic thinking on how the widespread implementation of digital technologies embodied by smart grids and digital skins impacts cities and buildings in two classic smart city models: ubiquitous city and augmented city. It then explores the consequences of these innovations on commercial real estate at both the city and building levels. In doing so, it presents the concept of a new “omni-use” property type whose characteristics derive from ubiquitous computing in smart urban environments. It also proposes guidelines for smart building scores to define a methodology relevant to the real estate sector and conducive to constructing price indices of smart buildings. It concludes by stressing the dominating role that technology will play in defining property heterogeneity in the digital era.
Institutional investor attitudes to technology-enhanced university vertical campuses in the digital era
Authors: Newell Graeme , Manaf Zaharah , Marzuki Jufri
Published: April 2019

Universities internationally have recently increased their campuses to attract a broader coverage of students in a very competitive university education market (e.g. international students). This has seen many universities establish a Central Business District (CBD) office presence via vertical campuses in addition to their traditional campuses. To take advantage of the digital era, a key ingredient in this university space is smaller technology-enhanced teaching spaces in these vertical campuses rather than traditional large lecture theatres. Universities have considered a range of options to access this vertical campus office space, with the attractiveness of universities as major office space tenants and university education assets now being critically assessed as a potential real estate sector for investors; for example, included in a real estate fund. Using an extensive stakeholder survey of Australian universities, pension funds, real estate funds and appraisers, critical issues in the successful operation and management of vertical campus office assets are assessed for these various stakeholders in the vertical campus office asset management process in the digital age. Specific strategic and practical management issues for these vertical campus office assets as a real estate sector in this fourth Industrial Revolution and universities as major office space tenants are highlighted.
How to study bureaucracies ethnographically?
Authors: Bierschenk Thomas , Olivier de Sardan Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2019

We propose a short epistemological and methodological reflection on the challenges of doing ethnographical research on public services (‘bureaucracies’) from the inside. We start from the recognition of the double face of bureaucracy, as a form of domination and oppression as well as of protection and liberation, and all the ambivalences this dialectic entails. We argue that, in classical Malinowskian fashion, the anthropology of bureaucracy should take bureaucrat as the ‘natives’, and acknowledge their agency. This means adopting basic anthropological postures: the natives (i.e. the bureaucrats) must have good reasons for their seemingly ‘absurd’ (or arbitrary) practices, once you understand the context in which they act. Based on intensive fieldwork and understanding ethnography as a form of grounded-theory production, to explore this ‘rationality in context’ of bureaucrats should be a major research objective. As in day-to-day intra-organisational practice and in internal interactions between bureaucrats, state bureaucracies function largely as any other modern organisation, the anthropology of bureaucracy does not differ that much from the anthropology of organisations. One of the major achievements of the latter has been to focus on the dialectics of formal organisation and real practices, official regulations and informal norms in organisations ‘at work’. This focus on informal practices, pragmatic rules and practical norms provides the main justification for the utilisation of ethnographic methods. In fact, it is difficult to see how informal norms and practices could be studied otherwise, as ethnography is the only methodology to deal with the informal and the unexpected.
Video-Based Driver’s Hand Tracking using Fast Normalized Cross Coefficient with Improved Computational Efficiency
Authors: Li Li , Hutmacher Clayton M. , Xu Xu
Published: April 2019

Driver distraction is one of the major causes for fatal car accidents. In a distracting activity, manual distraction is a triggered response of other types of distraction, such as cognitive and visual distraction. Therefore, recognition of manual distraction can contribute to the monitoring of overall drivers’ distraction. In this study, a computer vision-based method to track hand movement from the recorded driving behavior is proposed. This method integrates a low computational cost template matching algorithm using fast normalized cross coefficient (NCC) and a novel searching strategy. The proposed method was evaluated by the VIVA hand tracking data set. It achieves 50.83% of marginal accuracy percentage (mAP), 42.18% of multiple object tracking accuracy (MOTA), 31.56% of mostly tracked (MT), and 19.29% of mostly lost (ML), and it outperformed a state of the art algorithm in MOTA and MT. Additionally, the computational cost of the proposed method is greatly improved, and it can run at around 11.1 frames per second. The outcome of this research will further assist driving distraction recognition and mitigation, and improve driving safety.
YouTube as a Source of Information in Understanding Autonomous Vehicle Consumers: Natural Language Processing Study
Authors: Das Subasish , Dutta Anandi , Lindheimer Tomas , Jalayer Mohammad , Elgart Zachary
Published: April 2019

The automotive industry is currently experiencing a revolution with the advent and deployment of autonomous vehicles. Several countries are conducting large-scale testing of autonomous vehicles on private and even public roads. It is important to examine the attitudes and potential concerns of end users towards autonomous cars before mass deployment. To facilitate the transition to autonomous vehicles, the automotive industry produces many videos on its products and technologies. The largest video sharing website, YouTube.com, hosts many videos on autonomous vehicle technology. Content analysis and text mining of the comments related to the videos with large numbers of views can provide insight about potential end-user feedback. This study examines two questions: first, how do people view autonomous vehicles? Second, what polarities exist regarding (a) content and (b) automation level? The researchers found 107 videos on YouTube using a related keyword search and examined comments on the 15 most-viewed videos, which had a total of 60.9 million views and around 25,000 comments. The videos were manually clustered based on their content and automation level. This study used two natural language processing (NLP) tools to perform knowledge discovery from a bag of approximately seven million words. The key issues in the comment threads were mostly associated with efficiency, performance, trust, comfort, and safety. The perception of safety and risk increased in the textual contents when videos presented full automation level. Sentiment analysis shows mixed sentiments towards autonomous vehicle technologies, however, the positive sentiments were higher than the negative.