bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison Among Clustering and Classification Techniques on the Basis of Galaxy Data
Authors: De Tuli , Chattopadhyay Tanuka , Chattopadhyay Asis Kumar
Published: August 2016

Abtsrcat

Clustering and classification of difierent astronomical objects have become one of the most important area in the field of Astrostatistics. The basic objective of cluster analysis is related to segmentation of a collection of objects into a number, may be unknown, of clusters such that objects in the same cluster are more closely related than those assigned to different clusters. Various methods are available for clustering, which may be broadly categorized under supervised and unsupervised learning. In case of supervised learning there are some input variables, called predictors and also some output variables, called responses. But in case of unsupervised learning only predictors are under consideration in the absence of responses. Under both the above mentioned categories, for clustering and classification, several methods have been developed on the basis of the underlying nature of data sets. However, there is no well known criteria to compare the performances of difierent techniques. The present paper is an attempt to compare the appli- cability of some of the clustering techniques on the basis of Gaussian and non Gaussian astronomical data sets. A post classification technique is used as a supervised learning to justify the robustness of the variety of unsupervised methods used in this purpose. Finally the similarity of clusters, obtained from different methods, is viewed in terms of astrophysical properties of the objects grouped in different clusters.
On the Admissibility of Horvitz-Thompson Strategies for Estimating Finite Population Proportions in Direct and Randomized Response Surveys
Authors: Sengupta S.
Published: August 2016

Abtsrcat

Ramkrishnan (1975) had proved that in an open set-up any Horvitz-Thompson strategy for estimating a finite population mean of a quantitative variable is admissible within a class of comparable unbiased strategies. Sengupta and Kundu (1989) had proved a parallel result on the admissibility of similar strategies based on fixed size sampling designs under a randomized response model. In this paper we demonstrate that neither of these results is generally true for estimating a finite population proportion but some restricted versions of the results hold good.
Why do we Attend Refresher Courses? - A Case Study of Preference Data Analysis
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Souvik , Roy Sugata Sen , Ganguli Bhaswati
Published: August 2016

Abtsrcat

Participants of a refresher course sponsored by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India were asked to rank six possible reasons for attending the course. They were later also asked to rate the reasons on a five point preference scale. In this paper, our objective is to characterise and quantify the preference for these six reasons. Standard methods for the analysis of contingency tables are not appropriate for ranked preference data so we develop a variant of the y measure of association for ordinal data to examine excess preference in pairwise comparisons. The bootstrap is used to derive p-values and condence intervals for the proposed statistic. Finally, we fit a Bradley-Terry regression model to the rankings and estimate the preference for each reason in terms of ‘worth’ parameters. We repeat this analysis on the ratings data and estimate the worth parameters as functions of covariates. The model is further extended to include dependencies between the ratings. Salient results indicate that career advancement has the highest preference across all covariate classes while the preference for service to society is by far the lowest. However, the magnitude of the preferences is influenced by the number of years for which a participant has taught and whether or not he holds a doctoral degree. There are some differences in conclusions from the analysis of the ratings and rankings datasets.
Estimation and Prediction Based on K-Record Values from Logistic Distribution
Authors: Chacko Manoj , Shy Mary M.
Published: August 2016

Abtsrcat

In this paper, we consider k-record values arising from logistic distribution. We derive some recurrence relations for the single and product moments of the upper k-record values from logistic distribution. After computing the means, variances and covariances of the upper k-record values, we determine the best linear unbiased estimators for the location and scale parameters of logistic distribution. The best linear unbiased predictor of future k-record values is also determined. Finally, a real data is given to illustrate the inference procedures developed in this paper.
Do Learned Alarm Sounds Interfere With Working Memory?
Authors: Lacherez Philippe , Donaldson Liam , Burt Jennifer S.
Published: August 2016

Objective:

To assess whether identifying (or ignoring) learned alarm sounds interferes with performance on a task involving working memory.

Background:

A number of researchers have suggested that auditory alarms could interfere with working memory in complex task environments, and this could serve as a caution against their use. Changing auditory information has been shown to interfere with serial recall, even when the auditory information is to be ignored. However, previous researchers have not examined well-learned patterns, such as familiar alarms.

Method:

One group of participants learned a set of alarms (either a melody, a rhythmic pulse, or a spoken nonword phrase) and subsequently undertook a digits-forward task in three conditions (no alarms, identify the alarm, or ignore the alarm). A comparison group undertook the baseline and ignore conditions but had no prior exposure to the alarms.

Results:

All alarms interfered with serial recall when participants were asked to identify them; however, only the nonword phrase interfered with recall when ignored. Moreover, there was no difference between trained and untrained participants in terms of recall performance when ignoring the alarms, suggesting that previous training does not make alarms less ignorable.

Conclusion:

Identifying any alarm sound may interfere with immediate working memory; however, spoken alarms may interfere even when ignored.

Application:

It is worth considering the importance of alarms in environments requiring high working memory performance and in particular avoiding spoken alarms in such environments.
An investigation into modeling and simulation approaches for sustainable operations management
Authors: Fakhimi Masoud , Mustafee Navonil , Stergioulas Lampros K
Published: August 2016

Modeling and simulation (M&S) studies have been widely used in industry to gain insights into existing or proposed systems of interest. The majority of these studies focus on productivity-related measures to evaluate systems’ performance. This paradigm, however, needs to be shifted to cope with the advent of sustainability, as it is increasingly becoming an important issue in the managerial and the organizational agendas. The application of M&S to evaluate the often-competing metrics associated with sustainable operations management (SOM) is likely to be a challenge. The aim of this review is to investigate the underlying characteristics of SOM that lend towards modeling of production and service systems, and further to present an informed discussion on the suitability of specific modeling techniques in meeting the competing metrics for SOM. The triple bottom line, which is a widely used concept in sustainability and includes environmental, social, and economic aspects, is used as a benchmark for assessing this. Findings from our research suggest that a hybrid (combined) M&S approach could be an appropriate method for SOM analysis; however, it has its challenges.
Clinicopathology of Immunoglobulin G4–Related Chronic Sclerosing Sialadenitis
Authors: Chang Dun‐Hao , Wu Pao‐Shu , Wang Yu‐Chen , Lin Chin‐Hsuan , Li Wing‐Yin , Ma Hsu , Perng Chern‐Kang
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To investigate the clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with immunoglobulin G4–related chronic sclerosing sialadenitis (IgG4‐RCSS), a recently recognized disease.

Study Design

Case series with chart review and pathology study.

Settings

Tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods

We evaluated chronic sialadenitis specimens obtained over 11 years using pathologic examination and IgG4 immunohistochemistry staining. The specimens were assigned a revised diagnosis of IgG4‐RCSS or chronic sialadenitis not otherwise specified, and clinicopathologic data from each group were compared.

Results

Of the 84 patients, 21 were diagnosed with IgG4‐RCSS and 63 with chronic sialadenitis not otherwise specified. IgG4‐RCSS patients were older (68.2 ± 13.9 vs 54.2 ± 15.8 years, P =. 001), predominantly male (85.7% vs 61.9%, P =. 036), and more likely to present with painless swelling (75% vs 44.3%, P =. 001) and bilateral involvement (52.4% vs 6.3%, P <. 001). Ratio of IgG4‐positive plasma cells to IgG‐positive plasma cells in IgG4‐RCSS tissues was 0.81 ± 0.14. The mean value of serum IgG4 in IgG4‐RCSS patients was 918.8 mg/dL.

Conclusion

IgG4‐RCSS is more common in older male patients and frequently presents with bilateral involvement. Informing head and neck surgeons of the clinical features of IgG4‐RCSS and promoting a combined approach of clinical evaluation, imaging, and biopsy can improve the accuracy of preoperative diagnoses.
Medications for Allergic Rhinitis: An Opportunity for Quality Improvement?
Authors: Roditi Rachel E. , Ishman Stacey , Lee Stella , Lin Sandra , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: August 2016

Objectives

Adherence to the allergic rhinitis clinical practice guideline is being considered as a potential focus for national performance metrics. To help inform this discussion, we assessed patient‐ and clinician‐reported medication administration among nationally representative populations of patients with allergic rhinitis.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analyses.

Setting and Subjects

Home health assessments, ambulatory visits.

Methods

Participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey / National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were assessed. The primary outcomes were the percentage of patients reporting receipt of antihistamines and/or nasal steroids among those with allergy‐related symptoms and the percentage for whom a clinician administered these medications when diagnosing allergic rhinitis. Secondary outcomes included assessments of those with worse quality of life, confirmatory allergy testing, and leukotriene receptor antagonist use.

Results

Within the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, an estimated 29.2 million patients were diagnosed with “hay fever,” while 92.2 million were diagnosed with “allergies.” Patients with symptoms of allergic rhinitis reported that antihistamines or nasal steroids were prescribed in 21.1% to 24.0% of cases. Leukotriene receptor antagonists were given to 1.7% of those without asthma or use of other allergy medications. Within the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey / National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, observations representing 149.5 million visits for allergic rhinitis demonstrated that nasal steroids were administered in 29.6% of cases, while nonsedating and sedating antihistamines were given in 22.4% and 17.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Despite a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis, per patient report and clinician entry, a substantial number of affected patients do not receive antihistamines and nasal steroids.
Is There a Need for Repeat Radiologic Examination of Children with Esophageal Coin Foreign Body?
Authors: Dedhia Kavita , Chang Yue‐Fang , Leonardis Rachel , Chi David H.
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To determine factors associated with the passage of coins. To determine the need for repeat preoperative chest x‐ray (CXR) for esophageal coin foreign body.

Setting

Academic tertiary care center.

Design

Case series with chart review.

Subjects and Methods

Patient information was retrieved from an Institutional Review Board–approved database. We identified 1359 children with esophageal coin foreign bodies from 2001 to 2013. Patients with both initial diagnostic and immediate preoperative CXR were included.

Results

A total of 406 patients met inclusion criteria. The average age was 47 months (range, 1.8‐194 months). On preoperative CXR, the position changed in 29 patients (7%). Age, type of coin, and location of coin were all statistically significant factors affecting the passage of the coin (P <. 0001). Coins in the distal esophagus were 9.3 times more likely to pass than coins in the proximal esophagus. The longer the object was in the esophagus, the less likely it was to pass.

Conclusions

This study characterizes when esophageal coins may pass. Age, type of coin, location of coin at initial x‐ray, and length of time are all important considerations to determine if the coin will pass. This information may be used to counsel families about the likelihood of coins to pass and whether repeat x‐ray is necessary prior to surgical removal. Additionally, it may be more cost‐effective to obtain repeat films in select patients and prevent those from going to the operating theater who are more likely to pass the coin spontaneously.
It’s Tough To Be a Critic
Authors: Lundy Duane E. , Smith Josh L.
Published: August 2016

Potential differences between professional critics’ and nonprofessional undergraduates’ aesthetic appraisals in music were investigated via intercorrelations and frequency distributions of ratings. As expected, for 50 randomly selected albums, professional critics (“experts”) who had previously rated these albums showed highly consensual ratings ( r =+.61, p < .0005), as well as mound-shaped distributions approaching normality (i.e., the majority of ratings near neutrality and fewer scores at greater extremes). In contrast, 15 nonprofessionals’ rating distributions (“nonexperts”) for the same sample of albums varied more from mound-shaped distributions compared with the professional critics. Also, none of the nonprofessionals’ ratings were correlated with the critics’ ratings, and relatively few of the nonprofessionals’ ratings were correlated with each other (average r =+.08, N = 105 pairs). The philosophy that beauty is completely in the eye of the beholder, at least for music perception, was only empirically supported in the case of nonprofessional, nonexpert judges.
Sleep Quality Among Psychiatry Residents
Authors: Carvalho Aguiar Melo Matias , das Chagas Medeiros Francisco , Meireles Sales de Bruin Veralice , Pinheiro Santana José Abraão , Bastos Lima Alexandre , De Francesco Daher Elizabeth
Published: August 2016

Objective:

Medical residency programs are traditionally known for long working hours, which can be associated with a poor quality of sleep and daytime sleepiness. However, few studies have focused on this theme. Our objective was to investigate sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and their relation with anxiety, social phobia, and depressive symptoms.

Methods:

This cross-sectional observational study involved 59 psychiatry residents. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) were used to measure the quality of sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness ([EDS] and ESS > 10), respectively.

Results:

Among the 59 psychiatry residents, 59.3% had poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5) and 28.8% had EDS. Poor sleep quality was associated with higher EDS ( P = 0.03) and the year of residency program ( P = 0.03). Only 20% of residents with poor sleep had consulted at least once for sleep problems; 54.2% had used medications for sleep; and 16.9% were using medications at the time of interview. Only 30% obtained medication during medical consultations. Poor sleep was associated with irregular sleep hours ( P = 0.001) and long periods lying down without sleep ( P = 0.03). Poor sleep quality was also associated with high scores of anxiety symptoms ( P < 0.001) and social phobia symptoms ( P = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Psychiatry residents frequently have poor sleep quality and EDS. Considering that sleep disorders can affect quality of life, predispose to metabolic syndrome, and be associated with worse performance at work, attention to this clinical problem is needed.
Choosing Wisely? Let’s Start with Working Wisely
Authors: Kurdyak Paul , Wiesenfeld Lesley , Sockalingam Sanjeev
Published: August 2016

There is an increasing emphasis on quality and, relatedly, cost-effectiveness as it relates to the delivery of health care. Choosing Wisely is an initiative adopted by numerous specialties with the goal of starting a dialogue about efficient use of health care resources. People need to be able to access care to have an opportunity to choose wisely. There is a considerable amount of evidence that access to care is poor for specialty mental health care, particularly access to psychiatrists. Consequently, we suggest that psychiatrists and the broader mental health system need to consider working wisely, and in our paper outline key issues (for example, implementation of wait times and objective measures of need in a centralized referral management system; incorporation of performance indicators with longitudinal monitoring for continuous quality improvement) that need to be addressed to develop a mental health system that would allow people to access care to choose wisely.
Structural, thermal and mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites based on organosoluble polyimide with naphthyl pendent group and layered double hydroxide
Authors: Dinari Mohammad , Rajabi Ahmad Reza
Published: August 2016

In this study, a soluble aromatic polyimide (PI) with naphthyl pendent group was initially synthesized by the reaction of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) with 5-methyl- N,N-bis(4-nitrophenyl)naphthalen-1-amine. Then, via co-precipitation reaction of zinc nitrate hexahydrate and chromium nitrate nonahydrate, Zn/Cr-layered double hydroxide (LDH) was synthesized using hydrothermal techniques. Finally, different novel nanocomposites (NCs) based on PI and Zn/Cr-LDH (1, 2, 4 wt%) were produced through in situ polymerization. The resulting materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and mechanical testing. According to the TGA results, the prepared NCs showed high thermal stability at higher temperature due to the good dispersion and homogeneity of Zn/Cr-LDH in polymeric matrix. Consequently, the mechanical properties of the synthesized NCs were enhanced by the incorporation of 2 wt% Zn/Cr-LDH in the polymer matrix.
Investigations into the mechanical, morphological and thermal analyses of friction stir processing of high-density polyethylene composites
Authors: Gao Jicheng , Li Chao , Shen Yifu
Published: August 2016

The aim of this work is to fabricate the high-density polyethylene–copper composites by submerged friction stir processing at different traverse speeds. The scanning electron microscopy is used to analyze the distribution of microstructure and particles. The experimental results indicated that the macrostructure morphology, microstructure and tensile strength vary depending on the traverse speed. Compared with the pure high-density polyethylene, Cu-filled polymer composites showed lower tensile strength and higher microhardness. The maximal values of the tensile strength and microhardness were achieved at traverse speeds of 30 and 15 mm/min, respectively. The thermal properties of Cu-filled high-density polyethylene composites were studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The crystalline content of the composites was decreased due to the addition of copper. From the experimental tests, it can be concluded that submerged fiction stir processing has a great potential for producing polymer–metal composites.
Meridional shape design and the internal flow investigation of centrifugal impeller
Authors: Wang Yan , Dong Quanlin , Zhang Yulian
Published: August 2016

This paper describes an inverse design method for calculating the shape of meridional plane of centrifugal impeller. This design method permits the shroud and hub contours to be indirectly calculated by medial axis contour and constraint equations. The design process is computationally inexpensive and can conveniently modify the shroud and hub shapes as the design’s demand. Based on this design method, new constraint equations are used for a new shape design of meridional plane that lead to a uniform velocity distribution in the inlet of impeller. Numerical simulations are employed to investigate the fluid flows of centrifugal fan. After validation of the numerical strategy, the pressure and velocity distributions in centrifugal fan are illustrated. The numerical results show that the inlet performance is improved and the velocity distribution is more uniform. Furthermore, in order to understand the flow mechanism inside the centrifugal fan, the secondary flow in the blade passage and velocity distribution at the shroud and hub have been carried out a detailed investigation and study.
Airfoil performance degradation by coupling effects of supercooled raindrop icing and heavy rainfall
Authors: Wu Zhenlong , Cao Yihua
Published: August 2016

Icing and rainfall are the two critical meteorological factors that threaten the aircraft flight safety. A number of previous studies have shown their individual influences on aircraft aerodynamics; however, to date no studies on their coupling effects exist. In this paper, a numerical study is conducted to focus on the aerodynamic performance of a NACA 23012 airfoil exposed to heavy rain in the presence of an ice accretion by supercooled raindrop on the leading edge. An Eulerian–Lagrangian two-phase flow approach developed for rain simulation in our previous work is adopted here with some improvement in the turbulence model. A series of new phenomena about the aerodynamic performance and wake characteristics under the coupling effects of ice accretion and rainfall are found and discussed. These results do not seem to have been published previously and should be of significance to the aircraft industry for improved aircraft design and pilot training.
Spatial analysis of haze–fog pollution in China
Authors: Li Li , Tang Dengli , Kong Ying , Yang Yuanhua , Liu Dongjun
Published: August 2016

Haze–fog pollution has been one of the major atmospheric pollution problems in China. This study is aimed at understanding spatial distribution and spatial correlation of haze–fog pollution in China from 2001 to 2010 using exploratory spatial data analysis technique. The results show that spatial distribution of haze–fog pollution is not changed obviously in the 10 years, and the most serious polluted region is distributed in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. The values of global Moran’s I vary from 0.4066 to 0.4842, which indicates that haze–fog pollution is not distributed randomly, but has spatial agglomeration effects. The High–High agglomeration type is mainly distributed in central China, which contains 15, 14, 14, and 13 regions for the years of 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2010, respectively, while the Low–Low agglomeration type is concentrated in western and eastern China, which contains 11, 10, 10, and 8 regions for the years of 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2010, respectively. The results should provide policy guidance for public authorities to control haze–fog pollution. Further researches are still needed because of the complexity of haze–fog pollution and variety of influence factors.
Primary Clear Cell Chondrosarcoma of Thoracic Spine
Authors: Kurdi Maher , McGregor Stuart , Hammond Robert , Siddiqi Fawaz , Wehrli Bret
Published: August 2016

Clear cell chondrosarcoma is a rare cartilaginous tumor that arises commonly in the epiphyses of the proximal femur or humerus. Spinal involvement is extremely rare, but when present, it most frequently involves the thoracic spine. Clear cell chondrosarcoma is rarely reported in thoracic spine. We report a case of a 70-year-old man with clear cell chondrosarcoma of the T7-8 thoracic spine. Gross en bloc resection of T6-8 vertebral bodies with reconstruction and fusion followed by radiotherapy were performed.
Dynamic stiffness formulation for in-plane and bending vibrations of plates with two opposite edges simply supported
Authors: Li Hui , Yin Xuewen , Wu Wenwei
Published: August 2016

A dynamic stiffness formulation is developed for both in-plane and bending vibrations of plates with two opposite edges simply supported. The bending motions of plates are described in terms of Leissa’s displacement functions while the in-plane motions take the forms take the forms that were proposed by Bercin and Langley. Using Projection Method, the forces and their corresponding displacements along plate junctions are projected onto a set of orthogonal functions, by which means the well-known spatial dependence difficulties can be overcome, and, as a result, local dynamic stiffness matrix is obtained. Classical finite element technique is utilized to assemble local stiffness matrix into global coordinates. Finally, dynamics of an L-shaped plate is addressed, within which conversion of in-plane and bending motions occurs. Our numerical results are in good agreement with those obtained from finite element method, which demonstrates that this dynamic stiffness formulation has great potential in modeling the dynamics of built-up plate structures, especially in characterizing the in-plane waves, bending waves, and their mutual conversions along plate junctions.
Round-trip agenda setting: Tracking the intermedia process over time in the ice bucket challenge
Authors: Jang S Mo , Park Yong Jin , Lee Hoon
Published: August 2016

Despite the social media’s agenda-setting power, the literature provides little understanding of how social media agendas survive and last long enough to trigger substantial public discussions. This study investigates this issue by tracking the ice bucket challenge campaign over an 18-week period. This article claims that the pattern of the intermedia process evolves over time along with the issue-attention cycle. We observed a round-trip intermedia agenda setting where the direction is reversed as the agenda waxes and wanes. Both social and mainstream media continued to generate a heightened level of issue attention after the buzz was cooled down.
Beyond understanding: Comparative political theory and cosmopolitan political thought, a research agenda
Authors: Shapcott Richard
Published: August 2016

This article sets out the case for a mutual cross-fertilisation of normative cosmopolitan thought and the field of comparative political theory. Its argument is that both are useful to the other if their primary claims are warranted. Comparative political theory needs coherence about what distinguishes its enterprise and makes it truly comparative across traditions and normative cosmopolitanism needs transcultural validation of its normative ideal of human community and moral universality. The cosmopolitan agenda exploring comparative views of inclusion and exclusion and universality in the context of a global harm principle provides the field in which the necessary cross fertilisation can occur.
Maltreatment in Infancy
Authors: Harden Brenda Jones , Buhler Andrea , Parra Laura Jimenez
Published: August 2016

Burgeoning research has documented high rates of maltreatment during the first 3 years of life. Early exposure to maltreatment is related to a host of negative physical, developmental, and mental health outcomes in childhood and adulthood. Scientists have documented the “biological embedding” of maltreatment, including alterations in the structures and processes of the young brain. Maltreatment is a complex phenomenon, which manifests in contexts of family poverty, inadequate parental knowledge and skill regarding child development and caregiving, social isolation of parents, disruptions in parent–child relationships, compromised parental psychological functioning, and concrete issues that affect parenting. Capitalizing on research on young child maltreatment, interventions have been designed to ameliorate infant/toddler maltreatment, buffer young children against the effects of maltreatment, and promote the well-being of maltreated young children. There is a growing empirical base on interventions to address early maltreatment within the context of a public health prevention framework. Primary prevention programs aim to reduce the incidence of maltreatment and related outcomes for infants, toddlers, and their families through the implementation of population-based programs, such as home visiting and early care and education programs. Secondary prevention models target families with specific risk factors associated with maltreatment, such as maternal depression. Tertiary programs generally entail involuntary services, designed to prevent maltreatment recurrence and to improve parenting skills through therapeutic approaches targeting the parent–child dyad. Empirical knowledge about maltreated young children and their families and interventions to support them can inform the design and delivery of child welfare services.
A Public Health Approach to Prevention
Authors: Daro Deborah
Published: August 2016

Much of the fabric in today’s society is at odds with planning a robust and generative public health response to child maltreatment prevention. A critical component of this problem is the absence of a public policy framework and related infrastructure that can create common ownership of the problem while recognizing the vast differences in individual willingness and capacity to alter their parenting behaviors. To address this challenge, it seems prudent to begin building a universal system of assessment and support that will touch all children and all families at multiple points in the developmental process. Such a system would not simply identify those at highest risk. Rather this system would be built on the premise that all parents have issues and concerns and differ only in the extent to which they have the capacity to address these issues. This commentary outlines the key elements of such a system and its benefits in strengthening both the impacts of interventions and the collective will to support all children.
Adolescent Mental Health and Dating in Young Adulthood
Authors: Thorsen Maggie L. , Pearce-Morris Jennifer
Published: August 2016

Adolescence is a period of tremendous socioemotional change, when youth develop important relationship skills that they carry with them into adulthood. The mental health of individuals during this period might act as resources or impediments that impact their ability to cultivate such skills as well as outcomes in their later romantic relationships. The current study examines how multiple dimensions of adolescent mental health (depressive symptomology, self-esteem, mastery, and impulsivity) are associated with outcomes in romantic relationships across the transition to adulthood, such as relationship conflict, relationship happiness, and number of dating partners. Youth with higher mastery, self-esteem, and impulsivity during adolescence had more romantic dating partners across the transition to adulthood. High levels of depressive symptomology and low mastery during adolescence were also associated with greater conflict within dating relationships in young adulthood.
A Study of the Attitudes and Motivational Orientations of Pakistani Learners Toward the Learning of English as a Second Language
Authors: Khalid Aamna
Published: August 2016

In Pakistan where different languages co-exist, and where English has a high status as a second language (L2), the learners’ attitudes toward English plays an important role in formulating effective language policies. It is essential that these policies reflect these attitudes and are in sync with the learners’ orientations toward learning English. This article aimed to examine the attitudes of Pakistani students toward the learning of English as an L2 and to understand the motivational orientations that result from their attitudes. A secondary objective of this research was to find evidence to support the claim that Pakistani students are additive bilinguals who are not averse to the idea of a language policy that promotes English as the medium of instruction. Sixteen-year-old Pakistani students from public-sector schools were interviewed and asked to respond to questionnaires that measured their attitudes and orientations. The results indicated positive attitudes toward learning English as a second language with a clear instrumental orientation. Hence, the study highlighted that there exist no conflicting loyalties regarding the status of English and Urdu (the L1) and that both languages are held in high esteem. Despite a strong desire to learn English to gain access to international markets, the status of Urdu remains secure as it is viewed as a symbol of national integration. Hence, Pakistani students are additive bilinguals who for instrumental purposes would prefer their medium of instruction to be English and not because they do not value their L1.
Educators as Referrers for Central Auditory Processing Assessments
Authors: Heine Chyrisse , Slone Michelle , Wilson Wayne J.
Published: August 2016

This study aimed to investigate the referrers (including educators) and reasons children were referred to an audiology clinic for central auditory processing (CAP) evaluation, to identify a referral pathway for listening problems and professional development needs. A case file audit was used to examine the intake questionnaire completed by 150 parents whose child was diagnosed with central auditory processing disorder (CAPD). School staff were the most common referrers, followed by medical/allied health professionals, and family members. The most common concerns leading to referral were literacy, speech, language, and academic underperformance, followed by hearing, listening, and processing difficulties and emotional-behavioral issues. Significant correlations were observed between the referral sources and concerns. Results suggest that CAPD is primarily conceptualized as part of a more general educational concern. Continuing education and informational counseling is required to ensure that CAP referrals continue to be appropriately made.
Losing Confidence Over Time
Authors: Ogihara Yuji , Uchida Yukiko , Kusumi Takashi
Published: August 2016

We examined temporal changes in self-esteem among elementary and middle school students in Japan. Previous research has shown that self-esteem decreased among various sectors of the population, from middle school students to adults between 1984 and 2010 in Japan. However, it was unclear whether such temporal changes are also present at earlier stages of development (e.g., in elementary school) and in individual subgroups (e.g., each gender and developmental stage). Identifying such boundary conditions of temporal change will contribute to a better understanding of how cultures change over time. We analyzed representative and large-sample time-series data collected by the Japanese government in 1999 and 2006. Results showed that self-esteem decreased among elementary and middle school students regardless of gender and developmental stage. We suggest that from an early stage of development and among a broad range of the population in Japan, people’s general self-evaluations became more negative between 1999 and 2006.
Klebsiella oxytoca Endocarditis With Complete Heart Block
Authors: Ullah Saad , Elbita Omar , Abdelghany Mahmoud , Tahir Hassan , Tuli Puneet , Alkilani Waseem Zaid , Suri Joshan
Published: August 2016

Gram-negative bacterial endocarditis causes 5% of all bacterial endocarditis. Among gram-negative bacteria, Klebsiella species are rare causes of native valve endocarditis. Klebsiella oxytoca is an extremely rare subspecies that can infrequently cause endocarditis and is associated with poor outcome. We report a case of Klebsiella oxytoca endocarditis in an elderly man who initially presented with stroke but later developed sepsis and heart block secondary to endocarditis.
An Epidemiological Profile of CrossFit Athletes in Brazil
Authors: Sprey Jan W.C. , Ferreira Thiago , de Lima Marcos V. , Duarte Aires , Jorge Pedro B. , Santili Claudio
Published: August 2016

Background:

CrossFit is a conditioning and training program that has been gaining recognition and interest among the physically active population. Approximately 440 certified and registered CrossFit fitness centers and gyms exist in Brazil, with approximately 40,000 athletes. To date, there have been no epidemiological studies about the CrossFit athlete in Brazil.

Purpose:

To evaluate the profile, sports history, training routine, and presence of injuries among athletes of CrossFit.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was based on a questionnaire administered to CrossFit athletes from various specialized fitness centers in Brazil. Data were collected from May 2015 to July 2015 through an electronic questionnaire that included demographic data, level of sedentary lifestyle at work, sports training history prior to starting CrossFit, current sports activities, professional monitoring, and whether the participants experienced any injuries while practicing CrossFit.

Results:

A total of 622 questionnaires were received, including 566 (243 women [42.9%] and 323 men [57.1%]) that were completely filled out and met the inclusion criteria and 9% that were incompletely filled out. Overall, 176 individuals (31.0%) mentioned having experienced some type of injury while practicing CrossFit. We found no significant difference in injury incidence rates regarding demographic data. There was no significant difference regarding previous sports activities because individuals who did not practice prior physical activity showed very similar injury rates to those who practiced at any level.

Conclusion:

CrossFit injury rates are comparable to those of other recreational or competitive sports, and the injuries show a profile similar to weight lifting, power lifting, weight training, Olympic gymnastics, and running, which have an injury incidence rate nearly half that of soccer.
Characterization of polyoxymethylene for backsheets of photovoltaic modules
Authors: Wallner Gernot M , Geretschläger Klaus J , Hintersteiner Ingrid , Buchberger Wolfgang
Published: August 2016

This article describes and evaluates the basic properties and the damp heat (85%RH, 85℃) aging behaviour of a 400 µm thick titanium dioxide filled polyoxymethylene film for potential use as backsheet in photovoltaic (PV) modules. The polyoxymethylene monolayer was characterized using analytical methods and technological tests. The stabilizer package contained Tinuvin 234, Tinuvin 770 and Irganox 245. The less than 1 wt% pigmentation resulted in 0.680 solar optical reflectance. The slightly anisotropic mechanical properties elastic modulus and strength were within the requirements for backsheets. Damp heat exposure triggered degradation, stabilizer loss and lead to optical properties degrading (yellowing). However, neither premature embrittlement nor a critical loss of ultimate mechanical properties was found after 5005 h of aging. Hence, polyoxymethylene was classified as a potential candidate for backsheet core layers.
Delivering Coordinated Cancer Care by Building Transactive Memory in a Team of Teams
Authors: Henry Elizabeth , Silva Abigail , Tarlov Elizabeth , Czerlanis Cheryl , Bernard Margie , Chauhan Cynthia , Schalk Denise , Stewart Greg
Published: August 2016

Cancer care delivery is highly complex. Treatment involves coordination within oncology health-care teams and across other teams of referring primary and specialty providers (a team of teams). Each team interfaces with patients and caregivers to offer component parts of comprehensive care. Because patients frequently obtain specialty care from divergent health-care systems resulting in cross-system health-care use, oncology teams need mechanisms to coordinate and collaborate within and across health-care systems to optimize clinical outcomes for all cancer patients. Transactive memory is one potential strategy that can help improve comprehensive patient care delivery. Transactive memory is a process by which two or more team professionals develop a shared system for encoding, storing, and retrieving information. Each professional is responsible for retaining only part of the total information. Applying this concept to a team of teams results in system benefits wherein all teams share an understanding of specialized knowledge held by each component team. The patient’s role as the unifying member of the team of teams is central to successful treatment delivery. This clinical case presents a patient who is receiving oral treatment for advanced prostate cancer within two health systems. The case emphasizes the potential for error when multiple teams function without a point team (the team coordinating efforts of all other primary and specialty teams) and when the specialty knowledge of providers and patients is not well integrated into all phases of the care delivery process.
The Need to Apply Medical Device Informatics in Developing Standards for Safe Interoperable Medical Systems
Authors: Weininger Sandy , Jaffe Michael B. , Goldman Julian M.
Published: August 2016

Medical device and health information technology systems are increasingly interdependent with users demanding increased interoperability. Related safety standards must be developed taking into account these systems’ perspective. In this article, we describe the current development of medical device standards and the need for these standards to address medical device informatics. Medical device information should be gathered from a broad range of clinical scenarios to lay the foundation for safe medical device interoperability. Five clinical examples show how medical device informatics principles, if applied in the development of medical device standards, could help facilitate the development of safe interoperable medical device systems. These examples illustrate the clinical implications of the failure to capture important signals and device attributes. We provide recommendations relating to the coordination between historically separate standards development groups, some of which focus on safety and effectiveness and others focus on health informatics. We identify the need for a shared understanding among stakeholders and describe organizational structures to promote cooperation such that device-to-device interactions and related safety information are considered during standards development.
Blood Bupivacaine Concentrations After a Combined Single-Shot Sciatic Block and a Continuous Femoral Nerve Block in Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Suresh Santhanam , De Oliveira Gildasio S.
Published: August 2016

We evaluated blood bupivacaine concentrations in children having a single-shot sciatic and continuous femoral blocks after anterior cruciate ligament repair. Dried blood spot samples were analyzed for bupivacaine levels at 0, 5, 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes and 4, 24, and 48 hours. The highest 99% upper confidence interval limit was 135 ng/mL at the 4-hour evaluation point. The 99% upper confidence interval was below potentially toxic levels (1500 ng/mL) across all sampling times. The risk of local anesthetic toxicity in pediatric patients receiving single-shot sciatic and continuous femoral nerve blocks is very low.
Mitochondrial DNA and TLR9 Signaling Is Not Involved in Mechanical Ventilation-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Timmermans Kim , Kox Matthijs , Vaneker Michiel , Pickkers Peter , Scheffer Gert Jan
Published: August 2016

Exogenous administration of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) causes inflammatory lung injury in a toll-like receptor (TLR) 9-dependent manner. We investigated whether mechanical ventilation results in endogenous release of mtDNA and whether TLR9 plays a role in the pulmonary inflammatory response induced by mechanical ventilation.Wild-type and TLR9−/− C57bl/6 mice were ventilated with low (8 mL/kg) and high (32 mL/kg) tidal volumes for 4 hours. Levels of nuclear DNA and mtDNA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, as well as pulmonary concentrations of keratinocyte-derived chemokine, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6, were determined.Cytokine and nuclear DNA, but not mtDNA, levels were increased after mechanical ventilation with both tidal volumes. Cytokine concentrations were similar between wild-type and TLR9−/− mice. Mechanical ventilation does not result in the release of mtDNA, and TLR9 is not involved in mechanical ventilation-induced inflammation.
Tbx3 represses bmp4 expression and, with Pax6, is required and sufficient for retina formation
Authors: Motahari Zahra , Martinez-De Luna Reyna I. , Viczian Andrea S. , Zuber Michael E.
Published: August 2016

Vertebrate eye formation begins in the anterior neural plate in the eye field. Seven eye field transcription factors (EFTFs) are expressed in eye field cells and when expressed together are sufficient to generate retina from pluripotent cells. The EFTF Tbx3 can regulate the expression of some EFTFs; however, its role in retina formation is unknown. Here, we show that Tbx3 represses bmp4 transcription and is required in the eye field for both neural induction and normal eye formation in Xenopus laevis. Although sufficient for neural induction, Tbx3-expressing pluripotent cells only form retina in the context of the eye field. Unlike Tbx3, the neural inducer Noggin can generate retina both within and outside the eye field. We found that the neural and retina-inducing activity of Noggin requires Tbx3. Noggin, but not Tbx3, induces Pax6 and coexpression of Tbx3 and Pax6 is sufficient to determine pluripotent cells to a retinal lineage. Our results suggest that Tbx3 represses bmp4 expression and maintains eye field neural progenitors in a multipotent state; then, in combination with Pax6, Tbx3 causes eye field cells to form retina.
Vinculin b deficiency causes epicardial hyperplasia and coronary vessel disorganization in zebrafish
Authors: Cheng Feng , Miao Liyun , Wu Qing , Gong Xia , Xiong Jingwei , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2016

Coronary vessel development is a highly coordinated process during heart formation. Abnormal development and dysfunction of the coronary network are contributory factors in the majority of heart disease. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate coronary vessel formation is crucial for preventing and treating the disease. We report a zebrafish gene-trap vinculin b (vclb) mutant that displays abnormal coronary vessel development among multiple cardiac defects. The mutant shows overproliferation of epicardium-derived cells and disorganization of coronary vessels, and they eventually die off at juvenile stages. Mechanistically, Vclb deficiency results in the release of another cytoskeletal protein, paxillin, from the Vclb complex and the upregulation of ERK and FAK phosphorylation in epicardium and endocardium, causing disorganization of endothelial cells and pericytes during coronary vessel development. By contrast, cardiac muscle development is relatively normal, probably owing to redundancy with Vcla, a vinculin paralog that is expressed in the myocardium but not epicardium. Together, our results reveal a previously unappreciated function of vinculin in epicardium and endocardium and reinforce the notion that well-balanced FAK activity is essential for coronary vessel development.