bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Concrete fragments”: An interview with Henrietta Rose-Innes
Authors: Riach Graham K.
Published: June 2018

South Africa has a long and rich tradition of short story writing, stretching from the early oral-style tale (MacKenzie, 1999), through the writing of the “fabulous fifties” (Driver, 2012; R. Gaylard, 2008), to the most recent post-apartheid texts. In this interview, Henrietta Rose-Innes describes her practice as a short story writer, noting how it differs from that of writing novels or poetry. For Rose-Innes, the short story offers a way to capture her view of the world; that is, in sudden, intense moments, rather than in wholly narrative terms. Combining a number of short stories into a collection, Rose-Innes suggests, can offer some perspective on the plurality of contemporary South African life. Over the course of the interview, she discusses her exploration of conventional gender categories, her unconscious use of Gothic tropes, and the possibilities for political writing in contemporary South Africa. Throughout, there is a concern for how her works negotiate questions of space and place, particularly in the context of South African writing.
PLA-coated sisal fibre-reinforced polyester composite: Water absorption, static and dynamic mechanical properties
Authors: Gupta MK , Singh Rohit
Published: June 2018

In the present work, a novel physical treatment (PLA coating) of sisal fibres and its influence on the water absorption, static and dynamic mechanical properties of its composites has been presented. The treated sisal fibres were used consisted of alkali treatment and PLA coating to fabricate its polyester-based composites by hand lay-up technique keeping constant fibres content as 20 wt.% . Water absorption analysis was carried out in terms of water uptake (%), and sorption, diffusion and permeability coefficient. In addition, static properties were examined in terms of tensile, flexural and impact test, and dynamic mechanical analysis was performed in terms of storage modulus [Formula: see text], loss modulus [Formula: see text], damping [Formula: see text] and glass transition temperature [Formula: see text]. It was reported that the PLA-coated sisal composites showed the best performance in water absorption, mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties than pure sisal and alkali-treated sisal composites. There were 33%, 49%, 48%, and 27% improvement in water resistance, tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength, respectively, of PLA-coated sisal composites as compared to that of pure sisal composite.
Z-pin insertion process for through-thickness reinforced thermoplastic composites
Authors: Hoffmann Julian , Brast Alexander , Scharr Gerhard
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a novel method for the ultrasonically assisted insertion of metallic z-pins into thermoplastic composites. Mechanical and microstructural investigations were carried out on glass fiber-reinforced polyamide and polypropylene specimens. The insertion of steel pins into thermoplastic composites led to microstructural changes that differ significantly from the known microstructure of z-pinned thermoset fiber-reinforced plastics. Optical microscopy showed an absence of notable fiber waviness and resin-rich zones around each pin. Instead, the fibers were predominantly deflected in the through-thickness direction by the high insertion forces arising during pin penetration. To gain an initial insight on the resulting properties of the z-pin/thermoplastic interface, the mechanical properties of z-pinned thermoplastic composites under mode I loading were investigated using pullout tests. For reference, the pullout behavior of thermoset carbon fiber-reinforced plastic specimens, reinforced with steel pins was determined too. Due to the poor bonding and lack of friction between the pin and laminate, the determined traction loads of the thermoplastic specimens are well below typical values achieved from pin pullout in thermoset laminates.
Regulating casual employment in Australia
Authors: Markey Raymond , McIvor Joseph
Published: June 2018

The rise of precarious and non-standard working arrangements has received substantial attention in recent times. In Australia precarious work has been particularly associated with the phenomenon of casual work, defined as employment without the leave benefits provided by the National Employment Standards. Casual employment status is at the employers' discretion. It may be long term and involve short shifts of less than 4 hours. In the recent Modern Awards Review by the Australian Fair Work Commission, the Australian Council of Trade Unions submitted proposals to limit employers' ability to unilaterally determine the employment relationship and to reduce the degree of precariousness associated with casual employment. The Australian Council of Trade Unions sought the right for long-term casuals to convert to permanent employment and to extend minimum hours for shifts. This article surveys the evidence, primary and secondary, regarding the extent and nature of Australian casual employment, including its impact on flexibility, earnings security and productivity. In this context, we explore the implications of the Australian Council of Trade Unions claims and Fair Work Commission decision, and present data from a survey of casual employees regarding employment preferences. Whilst some employees prefer casual status, we find that many would benefit from protective regulations, and that most casuals support such regulation.
Exploring Linguistic Diversity From the Inside Out: Implications of Self-Reflexive Inquiry for Teacher Education
Authors: Athanases Steven Z. , Banes Leslie C. , Wong Joanna W. , Martinez Danny C.
Published: June 2018

With a burgeoning U.S. population of emergent bilingual learners and others who use nondominant language forms, the need for language knowledge among teachers is acute. Beginning from the inside out by examining one’s own complex language uses may be a first step toward envisioning and later developing classroom cultures that support diverse language forms for diverse purposes. In all, 262 undergraduate education students used self-reflexive inquiry, documenting ways they and others use language, through language inventories, surveys, and essays. Participants were majority students of color, half bilingual. Students reported awareness of rich diversity and nuances of language uses, purposes, and fluidity across contexts. Although students often used a formal/informal contrast to describe language uses, this distinction was complicated. Understandings of language surfaced in writing as students engaged with linguistically diverse peers and situated their linguistic repertoires in sociopolitical context. Drawing on results and students’ reflections on the writings as tools, we offer implications for teacher education.
Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 in the medico-legal setting: High rates of somatoform disorders, opiate use and diagnostic uncertainty
Authors: Bass Christopher , Yates Gregory
Published: June 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to review demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS) seen in a UK medico-legal setting – particularly the relationship between CRPS and somatoform disorders.

Methods

Fifty consecutive cases of CRPS (interviewed 2005–2016) undergoing psychiatric assessment were reviewed. A systematic assessment of mental states was conducted via interview and examination of medical/psychiatric records. Thirty patients also completed the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ).

Results

Sixty per cent of patients ( n = 30) were female, and the mean age was 43 years. Twenty-two per cent ( n = 11) were employed, and 60% ( n = 30) received disability benefits. Symptoms were reported in the upper limb (62%; n = 31), lower limb (30%; n = 15), both (6%; n = 3) or elsewhere (2%; n = 1). Eighty-four per cent ( n = 42) satisfied DSM-5 criteria for current somatoform disorder. A history of more than two pain-related functional somatic syndromes (e.g. non-cardiac chest pain) was found in 42% ( n = 21) and functional neurological symptoms (e.g. ‘claw-hand’) in 42% ( n = 21). BIPQ scores resembled those associated with somatoform disorders and disorders mediated by psychological factors (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome). In 38% ( n = 19), the CRPS diagnosis was disputed among experts. A history of depression was noted in 60% ( n = 30), panic attacks in 20% ( n = 10) and alcohol/substance misuse in 18% ( n = 9). Opiates were prescribed to 64% ( n = 32).

Conclusions

Patients diagnosed with CRPS involved in litigation have high rates of prior psychopathology (mainly somatoform disorders) and pain-related disability for which opiate use is common. They risk an adverse reaction to limb pain ‘shaped’ by maladaptive illness beliefs. The CRPS diagnosis lacks reliability in medico-legal settings and may cause iatrogenic harm
Why Causal Mechanisms and Process Tracing Should Alter Case Selection Guidance
Authors: Saylor Ryan
Published: June 2018

Advice on case selection in small- N research emphasizes controlling for confounding variables to facilitate inferential tests of a cross-case pattern. Yet many researchers embrace the “mechanismic worldview” and aim to construct explanations. Explanations differ from inferences because one explains an outcome at the individual case level. Hence, explanatory case studies are not simultaneously inferential tests, rendering prevailing case selection guidance ill fitting. This article provides an alternative outlook on case studies and case selection. It conceives of case studies as things that engage an analytical ideal type. Researchers can construct case-specific explanations by coupling the general claims of an ideal type with contextual analysis. In terms of case selection, if a case has contextual features that make it relatable to an ideal type, one can viably study that case in relation to the ideal type, regardless of the case’s other characteristics. This criterion diverges sharply from the conventional wisdom on case selection and can embolden unconventional comparisons.
The Gendered Dimensions of Resource Extractivism in Argentina’s Soy Boom
Authors: Leguizamón Amalia
Published: June 2018

Analyzing resource extractivism as a gendered structure is important for understanding the complex social processes that create and perpetuate environmental injustice—both social inequality and environmental degradation—and for visualizing gendered resistances and opportunities for transformation. Applying Risman’s approach to Argentina’s soy model, six causal mechanisms at the institutional, individual, and interactional levels can be identified that serve either to maintain or to challenge the status quo: (1) resource distribution, (2) ideology, (3) identity work, (4) cognitive bias, (5) status expectations, and (6) state paternalism.

Analizar el extractivismo de los recursos como una estructura de género es importante para comprender los complejos procesos sociales que crean y perpetúan la injusticia ambiental—tanto la desigualdad social como la degradación ambiental—y para visualizar las resistencias de género y las oportunidades de transformación. Aplicando el enfoque de Risman al modelo de soja en la Argentina, se pueden identificar seis mecanismos causales a nivel institucional, individual y de interacción que sirven para mantener o desafiar el status quo: (1) distribución de recursos, (2) ideología, (3) trabajo de identidad, (4) perjuicio cognitivo, (5) expectativas de posición social, y (6) paternalismo estatal.
Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Score to Guide Mask Selection in CPAP‐Treated Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Lebret Marius , Arnol Nathalie , Martinot Jean‐Benoît , Tamisier Renaud , Deschaux Chrystèle , Pépin Jean‐Louis , Borel Jean‐Christian
Published: June 2018

Nasal obstruction is frequently reported by patients with sleep apnea and complicates the choice of a nasal or oronasal mask for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. However, the type of interface used for the delivery of CPAP is crucial to ensure tolerance and compliance. The aim of this prospective pilot study was to identify whether the validated Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score rated at CPAP initiation was associated with the type of mask used after 4 months of treatment. Patients completed the NOSE questionnaire before initiation with automatic CPAP. The mask used (nasal/oronasal) after 4 months was documented. In total, 198 consecutive patients with sleep apnea were included. NOSE score (>50/100) was independently associated with the use of an oronasal mask at 4 months (sensitivity, 34.8%; specificity, 87.5%). The NOSE questionnaire could be a simple decision‐making tool to guide the choice of mask during CPAP initiation.
The Association of Industry Payments to Physicians with Prescription of Brand‐Name Intranasal Corticosteroids
Authors: Morse Elliot , Fujiwara Rance J. T. , Mehra Saral
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To examine the association of industry payments for brand‐name intranasal corticosteroids with prescribing patterns.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional retrospective analysis.

Setting

Nationwide.

Subjects and Methods

We identified physicians prescribing intranasal corticosteroids to Medicare beneficiaries 2014‐2015 and physicians receiving payment for the brand‐name intranasal corticosteroids Dymista and Nasonex. Prescription and payment data were linked by physician, and we compared the proportion of prescriptions written for brand‐name intranasal corticosteroids in industry‐compensated vs non‐industry‐compensated physicians. We associated the number and dollar amount of industry payments with the relative frequency of brand‐name prescriptions.

Results

In total, 164,587 physicians prescribing intranasal corticosteroids were identified, including 7937 (5%) otolaryngologists; 10,800 and 3886 physicians received industry compensation for Dymista and Nasonex, respectively. Physicians receiving industry payment for Dymista prescribed more Dymista as a proportion of total intranasal corticosteroid prescriptions than noncompensated physicians (3.1% [SD = 9.6%] vs 0.2% [SD = 2.5%], respectively, P <. 001). Similar trends were seen for Nasonex (12.0% [SD = 16.8%] vs 4.8% [SD = 13.6%], P <. 001). The number and dollar amount of payment were significantly correlated to the relative frequency of Dymista (ρ = 0.26, P <. 001 and ρ = 0.20, P <. 001, respectively) and Nasonex prescriptions (ρ = 0.09, P <. 001 and ρ = 0.15, P <. 001, respectively). For Dymista, this association was stronger in otolaryngologists than general practitioners (P <. 001). There was a stronger correlation between the percentage of prescriptions and the number and dollar amount of payments for Dymista than for Nasonex (P =. 014 and P <. 001).

Conclusions

Industry compensation for brand‐name intranasal corticosteroids is significantly associated with prescribing patterns. The magnitude of association may depend on physician specialty and the drug's time on the market.
Comparison of Outcomes in Medical Therapy vs Surgical Intervention of Esophageal Foreign Bodies
Authors: Lin Austin Y. , Tillman Brittny N. , Thatcher Aaron L. , Graves Casey R. , Prince Mark E.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

(1) Compare efficacy of primary medical therapy vs primary surgical intervention in patients with esophageal foreign bodies (EFBs). (2) Investigate variables that may predict successful outcomes in patients treated for EFBs.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Single‐institution academic tertiary care medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Adult patients (older than 18 years) seen at the University of Michigan Emergency Department (ED) over an 8‐year period with the diagnosis of EFBs (January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2011; N = 250). Decision was made by ED physicians whether to treat patients with first‐line medical therapy vs surgical intervention. Pertinent clinical and demographic data were extracted from medical records and summarized by descriptive statistics.

Results

First‐line treatment with surgical intervention (flexible or rigid esophagoscopy with foreign body removal) was much more likely to lead to resolution of symptoms than medical therapy (glucagon alone or in combination with other medical therapy) (98% vs 28%, P <. 0001). When delivered within 12 hours of symptom onset, medical therapy was more likely to be successful (34% resolution vs 12% resolution, P <. 01). There was no difference in complication rates for primary medical therapy vs surgical intervention (8% vs 8%).

Conclusions

Patients with EFBs are a commonly encountered consultation for both otolaryngologists and gastroenterologists. In these patients, first‐line surgical intervention is superior to medical therapy and should not be avoided for a trial of medical therapy or concern for higher morbidity. Implementation of these findings has the ability to positively affect treatment patterns, outcomes, and patient quality of life.
A study of measurement properties of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Garcia Isabel Fialho Fontenele , Tiuganji Carina Tiemi , Simões Maria do Socorro Morais Pereira , Lunardi Adriana Claudia
Published: June 2018

Objective:

To test the measurement properties (reliability, interpretability, and validity) of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire for older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design:

Clinimetric study.

Setting:

Pneumology service, ambulatory care, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Participants:

Consecutive sample of older adults ( n = 62; 38 (61%) men, 24 (39%) women) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Interventions:

Not applicable.

Main outcome measures:

Life-Space Assessment questionnaire assesses five space levels visited by the older adult in four weeks prior to the assessment. We tested the following measurement properties of this questionnaire: reliability (reproducibility assessed by a type-2,1 intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1); internal consistency assessed by the Cronbach’s alpha; measurement error by determining the standard error of measurement (SEM)), interpretability (minimum detectable change with 90% confidence (MDC90); ceiling and floor effects by calculating the proportion of participants who achieved the minimum and maximum scores), and validity by Pearson’s correlation test between the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire scores and number of daily steps assessed by accelerometry.

Results:

Reproducibility (ICC2,1) was 0.90 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84–0.94), and internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) was 0.80 (range = 0.76–0.80 for each item deleted). SEM was 3.65 points (3%), the MDC90 was 0.20 points, and we observed no ceiling (2%) or floor (6%) effects. We observed an association between the score of the Life-Space Assessment questionnaire and daily steps ( r = 0.43; P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Life-Space Assessment questionnaire shows adequate measurement properties for the assessment of life-space mobility in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Animatronic soft robots by additive folding
Authors: Yim S , Sung C , Miyashita S , Rus D , Kim S
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a new class of animatronic soft robots created by a desktop fabrication mechanism called additive folding. In this method, two-dimensional (2D) slices are threaded by multiple strings, accordion-folded by flexure hinges and finally stacked into a predefined three-dimensional (3D) structure. As the 3D assembly of the slices is controlled by embedded strings, it becomes an animatronic soft robot that moves like a biological creature and that shows life-like movements. We create a computational design algorithm that takes as input a desired 3D geometry of the robot, and that produces a 2D surface with built-in folds and string-based actuators. This paper describes the entire robot design process and demonstrates various animatronic motions, highlighting the vision of desktop fabrication technology and its potential applications in animatronics and robotic art.
Twenty-four-hour blood pressure variability plays a detrimental role in the neurological outcome of hemorrhagic stroke
Authors: Zhang Huan-Xin , Fan Qun-Xiong , Xue Shi-Zhen , Zhang Min , Zhao Ji-Xian
Published: June 2018

Background

Blood pressure variability (BPV) is a modifiable risk factor for stroke. This study was performed to determine the prognostic role of BPV in patients with acute hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods

The data of 131 hospitalized hypertensive patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) were collected. All patients underwent examinations using several neurological scales (Glasgow Coma Scale, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and modified Rankin scale [mRS]) and BP measurements at different time points.

Results

Sex, age, hematoma volume, and neurological scores were not significantly different between patients with a favorable and unfavorable prognosis for sICH. However, significant differences were found in hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, atrial fibrillation, smoking, and stroke history. The standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), and maximum–minimum range (Max–Min) of diastolic BP and the mean, SD, CV, and Max–Min of systolic BP significantly differed between the groups. Statistical analysis also demonstrated correlations between the 90-day mRS score and BPV and between systolic BPV and the 90-day mRS score.

Conclusion

High systolic or diastolic BPV within 24 hours of hemorrhagic stroke onset is associated with the 90-day neurological prognosis. The 24-hour BPV plays a critical role in the neurological outcome of hemorrhagic stroke.
Tuberculosis-associated IgA nephropathy
Authors: Wang Yamei , Tao Yuhong
Published: June 2018

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most frequent pathological diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB)-associated glomerulonephritis. Diagnosing TB-associated IgAN (TB-IgAN) is difficult because of its non-specific and insidious symptoms. An inaccurate diagnosis of TB-IgAN could result in the spread of TB and reduced renal function. Haematuria and proteinuria in conjunction with TB should be assessed because of the potential for diagnosis of IgAN. Renal biopsy is important in securing an accurate diagnosis prior to initiating treatment. Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA and assessment of early secreted antigenic target of 6 kDa in renal biopsy tissues may have great potential diagnostic value in patients with TB-IgAN. Anti-TB therapy can effectively alleviate TB and TB-IgAN.
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the endometrium in a woman of reproductive age: a rare case report
Authors: Wu Qi , Chu Zhaoping , Han Hua , Bai Suning , Wu Wenfei , Li Xiying , Wei Shixuan , Yan Ping
Published: June 2018

Primary endometrial squamous cell carcinoma is an extremely rare tumor that tends to occur in postmenopausal women. We report on a 33-year-old woman who presented with a history of irregular vaginal bleeding for more than 2 years, and a vaginal mass for more than 1 month. Biopsy of the vaginal mass revealed an invasive poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. The patient underwent radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, pelvic lymph node dissection, peritoneal sampling and vaginal tumor resection. On the basis of her medical history, auxiliary examination and postoperative pathology, the patient was diagnosed with stage IV endometrial squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was followed-up regularly and remained in good condition.
Neuroliberalism: Cognition, context, and the geographical bounding of rationality
Authors: Whitehead Mark , Jones Rhys , Lilley Rachel , Howell Rachel , Pykett Jessica
Published: June 2018

Focusing on the rise of the behavioural sciences within the design and implementation of public policy, this paper introduces the concept of neuroliberalism and suggests that it could offer a creative context within which to interpret related governmental developments. Understanding neuroliberalism as a system of government that targets the more-than-rational aspects of human behaviour, this paper considers the particular contribution that geographical theories of context and spatial representation can make to a critical analysis of this evolving governmental project
Three-dimensional thermo-mechanical analysis of continuous casting and comparison with two-dimensional models
Authors: Vaghefi Reza , Hematiyan MR , Nayebi Ali
Published: June 2018

In this study, a three-dimensional thermo-elasto-plastic model is developed for simulating a continuous casting process. The obtained results are compared with those from different two-dimensional analyses, which are based on plane stress, plane strain, and generalized plane strain assumptions. All analyses are carried out using the meshless local Petrov–Galerkin method. The effective heat capacity method is employed to simulate the phase change process. The von Mises yield criterion and elastic–perfectly-plastic model are used to simulate the stress state during the casting process; while, material parameters are assumed to be temperature-dependent. Based on the three-dimensional and two-dimensional models, numerical results are provided to determine the stress, displacement, and temperature fields induced in the cast material. It is observed that the present meshless local Petrov–Galerkin method is accurate in three-dimensional thermo-mechanical analysis of highly nonlinear phase change problems. Reasonable agreements are observed between the results obtained from the three-dimensional analysis with those retrieved by the generalized plane strain assumption. However, it is observed that the results obtained under plane stress/strain conditions have some significant differences with the results obtained from three-dimensional modeling of continuous casting.
Double wavelength combined electronic speckle pattern interferometry–moiré system for full-field strain analysis on electronic components
Authors: Casavola Caterina , Pappalettera Giovanni
Published: June 2018

Determination of thermal dissipation capability and thermomechanical behavior of electronic components is becoming a relevant topic in view of the fact that thermal management can strongly affect reliability and lifetime of the component. The level of miniaturization, which is achieved in current electronics, requires that no-contact analysis must be privileged in view of the fact that any contact with the chip can significantly alter the heat capacity of the component and to introduce a systematic bias in the measurements. Moreover, the high complexity of electronics components suggests that full-field methods should be adopted in order to take into account about differences in terms of thermomechanical response in different areas of the same sample. In this article, an original optical set-up including a speckle interferometer and a projection moiré branch was developed; this system comprises two different laser sources emitting at two different wavelengths. Recording by a color camera allows detecting simultaneously the speckle pattern and the projected fringes. The whole information is successively separated in the post-processing stage and this allows obtaining in-plane and out-of-plane displacement fields. The system demonstrated its capability to determine dynamic response of the LM1084 analyzed component and, moreover, to detect the presence of a functional damage.
Analyzing Passenger Travel Demand Related to the Transportation Hub inside a City Area using Mobile Phone Data
Authors: Zhong Gang , Zhang Jian , Li Linchao , Chen Xiaoxuan , Yang Fan , Ran Bin
Published: June 2018

The passenger transportation hub plays a crucial role in the urban transportation system. Analyzing transportation hub related travel demand is necessary to support urban transportation planning and management. However, it is difficult to use the traditional travel survey methods to study travel demand because tracking passenger travel trajectories is a near impossible task. The location information from the cellular system provides a feasible way to solve the problem. This paper concentrates on applying mobile phone data to study passenger travel demand related to the Hongqiao transportation hub in Shanghai, China. First, a method is introduced to collect passenger travel information related to the hub from mobile phone data. Then, travel demand indexes are presented to characterize the travel demand in a visual way. Finally, transportation corridors, which connect the hub and other urban areas, are identified to analyze the distribution of travel demand more thoroughly. The results illustrate that the passenger travel demand shows an obvious tide pattern in the city area with the Hongqiao transportation hub as the center. Moreover, there are two identified transportation corridors which reveal the major distribution directions of the passengers, that is, the city center and the Zizhu industrial development zone. The approach in this study testifies that mobile phone data has great potential for transportation planning and management related to transportation hubs.
Modeling the Influence of Weather on Transit Ridership: A Case Study from Brisbane, Australia
Authors: Wei Ming , Corcoran Jonathan , Sigler Thomas , Liu Yan
Published: June 2018

This paper examines the influence that weather conditions exert on transit ridership in sub-tropical Brisbane, Australia. Drawing on transit smart card and weather station records covering a period of six months, the weather-transit ridership relationship across three different travel modes is modeled. Our results reveal that weather does impose an effect on transit ridership and that its influence varies by both transit mode and across weekdays and weekends. On weekdays, the heat index, an indicator of human-perceived temperature, was found to exert a negative effect on bus and train ridership, while ferry ridership was shown to be most sensitive to rainfall. On weekends, the ridership across all three transit modes decreased on rainy days. Results from quantile regression suggest that on weekdays during periods of higher ridership the influence of weather on transit ridership becomes stronger, while on weekends the influence of weather is lessened. We argue that our findings are important for transit agencies in their capacity to unveil how an important predictor of ridership variation, weather, exerts an influence across a transit system. These preliminary findings mark the first step in assembling the necessary evidence to build a more weather-resilient transit system.
High Rate of Return to High-Intensity Interval Training After Arthroscopic Management of Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Riff Andrew J. , Ukwuani Gift , Clapp Ian , Movassaghi Kamran , Kelly D. Michael , Nho Shane J.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Since the inception of CrossFit in 2000, the popularity of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in the United States has risen dramatically. While HIIT is a highly efficient exercise for weight loss and improved conditioning, some literature reports injuries in up to 34% of HIIT participants. We sought to evaluate the functional and sports-specific results of hip arthroscopic surgery in recreational HIIT participants.

Purpose:

To evaluate patients’ ability to return to HIIT after hip arthroscopic surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS).

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with FAIS who had identified themselves as participating in HIIT and had undergone hip arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of FAIS by a single fellowship-trained surgeon between 2012 and 2015 were reviewed. Demographic data; preoperative physical examination findings; preoperative imaging results; preoperative patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores including the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), Hip Outcome Score–Sports-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain; and postoperative examination and PRO scores at a minimum 2 years after surgery, including a HIIT-specific questionnaire, were assessed for all patients.

Results:

Thirty-two patients (13 male, 19 female) with a mean age of 34.7 ± 6.9 years (range, 21-49 years) were identified with a minimum 24-month follow-up. Among these, 22 participated in CrossFit, 4 in Shred415, 3 in Orangetheory, and 3 in self-directed cross-training including plyometrics. Preoperatively, 14 patients had discontinued HIIT because of activity-related hip complaints, 17 patients had scaled back involvement in HIIT, and 1 patient maintained her baseline routine. Postoperatively, 28 of 32 patients (88%) returned to HIIT at a mean of 9.8 ± 5.7 months after surgery (range, 3-24 months); 96% returned to HIIT at the same level as or better than before the injury. Fear of reinjury was the most common reason for cessation (3/4). Preinjury and postoperative involvement in HIIT were comparable (5.3 vs 5.1 h/wk, respectively; P = .8). All patients had significant improvements in the HOS-ADL score (69.7 ± 17.3 to 94.2 ± 8.4; P < .001), HOS-SSS score (49.2 ± 21.2 to 83.3 ± 21.4; P < .001), mHHS score (59.9 ± 14.2 to 85.4 ± 11.6; P < .001), and VAS for pain score (7.5 ± 1.8 to 1.1 ± 1.3; P < .001) from preoperatively to postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic treatment of FAIS in recreational HIIT participants resulted in significant improvements in hip function and predictably high rates of patient satisfaction. Postoperatively, 88% of patients returned to HIIT, 44% noted improvement from preinjury HIIT performance, and the mean weekly participation was comparable with before the injury.
Geriatric Workforce Development for the Underserved: Using RCQI Methodology to Evaluate the Training of IHSS Caregivers
Authors: Guerrero Lourdes R. , Richter Lagha Regina , Shim Amy , Gans Daphna , Schickedanz Heather , Shiner Lisa , Tan Zaldy
Published: June 2018

Caregivers play an important role in the in-home care of community dwelling older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD); however, many of these caregivers lack training in caring for this vulnerable population. In 2015, we developed and implemented an interactive, community-based, knowledge and skills-based training program for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers. This report shares the results of a process evaluation of this training program as it evolved over the course of three training sessions in Riverside County, California. Our iterative evaluation process reveals the unique needs of training and assessing a population of demographically diverse adult learners and provides guidance for those planning to implement similar training in underserved communities. Factors such as reliance on self-reported abilities, language readability level, and test anxiety may have confounded attempts to capture learner feedback and actual knowledge gains from our caregiver training program.
Facilitating Contextual Vocabulary Learning in a Mobile-Supported Situated Learning Environment
Authors: Uz Bilgin Cigdem , Tokel S. Tugba
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate how the contextual vocabulary exploration processes of English as a Foreign Language learners can be facilitated in a mobile-supported situated learning environment. A Science and Technology Museum populated with interactive science experiments was chosen as the situated learning context. A mobile application was designed to support learners in completing the authentic tasks and facilitate learners in contextual vocabulary learning. During a 5-week period, 25 university students completed authentic tasks in the situated learning environment. An embedded mixed design, embedding a quantitative phase within a qualitative phase, was employed. The quantitative phase consisted of a pretest–posttest design and system logs, while the qualitative phase consisted of retrospective reviews and observation. The results indicated that contextual vocabulary learning can be supported and enhanced with mobile technologies by considering some factors, including contextual clues, word frequency, authenticity of the tasks, learners' domain knowledge, interest, and focus.
Assessment of Temporary Crown Extensions to Correct Linguoverted Mandibular Canine Teeth in 72 Client-Owned Dogs (2012-2016)
Authors: Storli Sigbjørn H. , Menzies Robert A. , Reiter Alexander M.
Published: June 2018

A search of the medical and dental records at Evidensia Lørenskog Dyreklinikk, in Lørenskog, Norway, was conducted to identify dogs that received temporary crown extensions (TCEs) to correct linguoverted mandibular canine (LMC) teeth over a 54-month investigation period (2012-2016). Criteria for inclusion into the study were the presence of complete medical and dental records, pre- and postoperative clinical photographs and intraoral radiographs of the affected canine teeth, adequate information pertaining to the procedures performed, and at least 1 follow-up >3 months after appliance removal. Seventy-two dogs with LMC teeth were treated with TCE. Thirty-nine breeds were represented in this study. Mean age at the time of appliance installation was 6.4 (range, 4.7-13.4 months [median, 5.9 months] months). Fifty-three (73.6%) dogs presented with class I malocclusion, 14 (19.5%) dogs with class II malocclusion, and 5 (6.9%) dogs with class III malocclusion. Twenty-five (34.7%) dogs were considered to have mild, 32 (44.4%) dogs to have moderate, and 15 (20.8%) dogs to have severe mandibular canine malocclusion. The TCE was combined with other treatment modalities (active orthodontics, extraction of nonstrategic teeth, gingivectomy, and inclined bite plane and ball therapy) to correct mandibular canine tooth malocclusions in 19 (26.4%) dogs. Fractured or detached crown extensions were seen in 9 (12.5%) dogs. Soft tissue ulceration or inflammation was seen in 7 (9.7%) dogs. The mandibular canine teeth occlusion resolved completely with self-retaining, functional, nontraumatic occlusion in 56 (77.8%) dogs. Fifteen dogs (20.8%) resolved with functional, nontraumatic occlusion, but the mandibular canine teeth were too short to be perfectly self-retained, thus left with 1- to 2-mm crown extensions for permanent retention. In 1 (1.4%) dog, both mandibular canine teeth relapsed almost back to original position. The results show that TCE is a viable treatment option to correct LMC teeth in young dogs.
Oral and Dental Examination Findings in a Family of Zoo Suricates (Suricata Suricatta)
Authors: Kvapil Pavel , Nemec Ana , Zadravec Marko , Račnik Joško
Published: June 2018

Although similar oral and dental diseases as seen in dogs, cats, ferrets, and other carnivores are expected in suricates, published data on their oral and dental diseases are rare. The objective of this report is therefore to describe oral and dental examination findings in a family of zoo suricates. In this cross-sectional clinical study, detailed oral and dental examination and full-mouth dental radiographs were performed in 6 suricates undergoing general anesthesia for their regular annual wellness check. Attrition/abrasion was commonly observed less so were dental fractures, but both conditions were found to be associated with endodontic disease. Periodontal disease of different stages was also commonly observed. As expected, dental radiography was essential to determine dental anatomy, to accurately diagnose oral and dental diseases, and to plan treatment. This report illustrates that several painful oral and dental diseases can affect suricates in captivity. Therefore, thorough oral and dental examination supported by dental radiography under general anesthesia is warranted also in these animals as a part of their annual wellness checks.
A Volumetric Assessment Using Computed Tomography of Canine and First Molar Roots in Dogs of Varying Weight
Authors: Scherer Ellen , Snyder Christopher J. , Malberg Jessica , Rigby Brittney , Hetzel Scott , Waller Ken
Published: June 2018

Mandibular volume and tooth root volumes were shown to increase at different rates at locations containing the roots of the canine (C) and mesial and distal roots of the first molar (M1). Thirty-six dogs were included in this study. Data were generated using computed tomography at locations of the mandible involving the roots of the C and M1 teeth. Software was used to trace the external surface of the mandible, calculating the volume of the mandible at each location. Similar techniques were used to trace and calculate the volume of the C and M1 roots. Mandible volume, tooth root volume, and root percentage of mandible volume were analyzed and compared using the slopes of the best fit line. At the M1 mesial and distal roots, mandible volume ( P < .001) and root volume ( P < .001) were both noted to increase, with increasing weight at different rates. The rate of change in the root percentage by weight of M1 roots was not different ( P = .214). Each location demonstrated a different increasing rate of change for mandibular volume and increasing root volume. Results show that as patient’s weight increases, the mandible and root volumes increase at different rates. Root percentage by volume at all three locations was noted to decrease by the same rate. Canine and M1 roots are proportionally larger than the supporting mandibular bone in smaller patients. Care should be taken to recommend periodontal disease prevention for owners of small dogs and consideration made when performing extractions or other surgery that may destabilize the mandible.
NIR in vivo imaging of blood flow and molecular distribution in a developing fish egg are simultaneously obtained using imaging-type two-dimensional Fourier spectroscopy
Authors: Ishigaki Mika
Published: June 2018

In the present report, I introduce our recent research about non-staining blood flow imaging of Japanese medaka fish egg ( Oryzias latipes) using an imaging-type two-dimensional Fourier spectroscopic system. Due to optical interference caused by optical path differences and light frequency shifts that were given by a partial movable mirror and Doppler effect, respectively, molecular vibration and heart beat signals can be simultaneously obtained in vivo. Therefore, non-staining blood flow images were successfully obtained by plotting light intensities associated with the heart beat, and molecular distributions of O–H (water) and C–H (hydrocarbons or aliphatic compounds) were visualized without staining. I additionally discuss about future applications of the imaging system to biological and biomedical research.
Generalized causal mediation and path analysis: Extensions and practical considerations
Authors: Albert Jeffrey M , Cho Jang Ik , Liu Yiying , Nelson Suchitra
Published: June 2018

Causal mediation analysis seeks to decompose the effect of a treatment or exposure among multiple possible paths and provide casually interpretable path-specific effect estimates. Recent advances have extended causal mediation analysis to situations with a sequence of mediators or multiple contemporaneous mediators. However, available methods still have limitations, and computational and other challenges remain. The present paper provides an extended causal mediation and path analysis methodology. The new method, implemented in the new R package, gmediation (described in a companion paper), accommodates both a sequence (two stages) of mediators and multiple mediators at each stage, and allows for multiple types of outcomes following generalized linear models. The methodology can also handle unsaturated models and clustered data. Addressing other practical issues, we provide new guidelines for the choice of a decomposition, and for the choice of a reference group multiplier for the reduction of Monte Carlo error in mediation formula computations. The new method is applied to data from a cohort study to illuminate the contribution of alternative biological and behavioral paths in the effect of socioeconomic status on dental caries in adolescence.
Assessing the performance of the generalized propensity score for estimating the effect of quantitative or continuous exposures on survival or time-to-event outcomes
Authors: Austin Peter C
Published: June 2018

Propensity score methods are frequently used to estimate the effects of interventions using observational data. The propensity score was originally developed for use with binary exposures. The generalized propensity score (GPS) is an extension of the propensity score for use with quantitative or continuous exposures (e.g. pack-years of cigarettes smoked, dose of medication, or years of education). We describe how the GPS can be used to estimate the effect of continuous exposures on survival or time-to-event outcomes. To do so we modified the concept of the dose–response function for use with time-to-event outcomes. We used Monte Carlo simulations to examine the performance of different methods of using the GPS to estimate the effect of quantitative exposures on survival or time-to-event outcomes. We examined covariate adjustment using the GPS and weighting using weights based on the inverse of the GPS. The use of methods based on the GPS was compared with the use of conventional G-computation and weighted G-computation. Conventional G-computation resulted in estimates of the dose–response function that displayed the lowest bias and the lowest variability. Amongst the two GPS-based methods, covariate adjustment using the GPS tended to have the better performance. We illustrate the application of these methods by estimating the effect of average neighbourhood income on the probability of survival following hospitalization for an acute myocardial infarction.
Clinical Research With Pregnant Women: Perspectives of Pregnant Women, Health Care Providers, and Researchers
Authors: Wada Kyoko , Evans Marilyn K. , de Vrijer Barbra , Nisker Jeff
Published: June 2018

Limited clinical research with pregnant women has resulted in insufficient data to promote evidence-informed prenatal care. Charmaz’s constructivist grounded theory methodology was used to explore how research with pregnant women would be determined ethically acceptable from the perspectives of pregnant women, health care providers, and researchers in reproductive sciences. Semistructured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 12 pregnant women, 10 health care providers, and nine reproductive science researchers. All three groups suggested the importance of informed consent and that permissible risk would be very limited and complex, being dependent on the personal benefits and risks of each particular study. Pregnant women, clinicians, and researchers shared concerns about the well-being of the woman and her fetus, and expressed a dilemma between promoting research for evidence-informed prenatal care while securing the safety in the course of research participation.