bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curcumin Releasing Eggshell Derived Carbonated Apatite Nanocarriers for Combined Anti-Cancer, Anti-Inflammatory and Bone Regenerative Therapy
Authors: Verma Anish H. , Kumar T. S. Sampath , Madhumathi K. , Rubaiya Y. , Ramalingan Murugan , Doble Mukesh
Published: May 2019

Bone cancer or osteosarcoma is an aggressive cancer affecting the long bones and is treated by a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Local drug delivery directly to the site of bone cancer and the use of plant-based drugs has been explored towards improving the efficacy and decreasing
the toxicity of the anti-cancer drugs. Curcumin, derived from turmeric is highly effective against cancer cells and shows very low toxicity against normal cells. Bone repair is facilitated by use of bone substitutes such as bioceramics, amongst which the carbonated apatite (CA) nanocarriers
closely mimic the natural bone mineral. In the current work, we have developed CA nanocarriers based local delivery of curcumin as an adjunct treatment for bone cancer. CA nanocarriers with 6 wt.% carbonate were prepared by wet chemical synthesis using synthetic derived (6SWCA) and eggshell
derived (6EWCA) precursors along with hydroxyapatite (WHA) as a control. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed the CAs to be phase pure with a mean crystallite size of 17 nm. The Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis of both CAs indicated the carbonate substitution as
B-Type. The amount of carbonate substitution was observed to be around 6 wt.% using FTIR and CHNO elemental analyzer. The 6EWCA showed a greater loading (36%) and release (66%) of curcumin than 6SWCA and WHA nanocarriers. The bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein denaturation assay showed the
curcumin loaded CAs to be highly anti-inflammatory while their anti-cancer activity was confirmed by the high cytotoxic activity against MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells. Conclusively, an eggshell derived apatite drug delivery system was found to be very suitable to cure osteosarcoma, prevent
post-cancer inflammation and modulate bone repair and regeneration.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Oxytetracycline by Photosensitive Materials and Toxicological Analysis by Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Yu Qiaojie , Ouyang Tong , Zhou Kefu , Chang Changtang
Published: May 2019

This study explored a facile one-step hydrothermal method of preparing a high-performance photocatalyst, namely, graphene-TiO2, for oxytetracycline (OTC) removal. The nanocomposites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron
microscopy, UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The photocatalytic properties of different graphene loading types and various OTC initial concentrations, temperatures, and initial pH values were investigated. Results showed that the material with 10% graphene
content exhibited the best performance and removal efficiency (beyond 99%) of OTC within 180 min at 35 °C and pH 5.5. The effects of different reactive oxygen species scavengers on photodegradation and the contributions were evaluated, and a possible reaction mechanism was proposed. Caenorhabditis
elegans was used for toxicity testing during the entire degradation process and achieved a favorable result.
Electrochemical Preparation of CuZn Metallic Foams for Removing Water Contaminants
Authors: Vourlias G.
Published: May 2019

This study is focused on the preparation of metal (Cu, Zn) nanopowders by an electrochemical reduction/precipitation procedure, which provides the primary components for the development of CuZn alloy metallic foams. This well-controlledmethod allows straight forward control of the reaction
parameters and the restriction of oxidation effects, while resulting in stable and small grain size metal nanopowders. Whether precipitation of Cu and Zn is held separately or in alternating deposition mode, the characteristics of synthesized nanopowders assist easier mixing, alloying and
realization of metallic foams suitable for water treatment applications. CuZn alloy foams developed with this technique presented equivalent efficiency and lower corrosion and leaching rates compared to those prepared with commercial powder methods.
An Overlapped Nano-Fe2O3/TiO2 Composite Coating on Activated Carbon Fiber Membrane with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Han Chong , Jing Mao-Xiang , Yang Hua , Shen Xiang-Qian , Qiao Guan-Jun
Published: May 2019

Treatment of high concentration organic wastewater has always been a difficult problem in the field of water purification due to its high cost, low efficiency, long processing cycle and possible second pollution. An overlapped nano-Fe2O3/TiO2@activated
carbon fiber membrane composite was successfully prepared by hydrothermal loading method. Nano-rod-like TiO2 and columnar Fe2O3 polyhedrals overlapped and formed a composite coating on the surface of activated carbon fiber membrane. This composite can absorb
visible light and successfully remove the high concentration Congo red pollutant (400 mg/L) in 24 h. The enhanced photocatalytic performance should be attributed to the synergistic reaction of nano-Fe2O3 and nano-TiO2, which improves the separation of photo-generated
electrons and holes thus enhances the photocatalytic efficiency. This multifunctional fiber membrane is expected to be widely applied in various organic wastewater treatments.
Non-Isothermal Decomposition Kinetic of Polypropylene/Hydrotalcite Composite
Authors: Xu Sheng , Zhang Min , Li Siyu , Yi Moyu , Shen Shigen , Zeng Hongyan , Du Jinze , Pan Yong
Published: May 2019

P3O5-10 pillared Mg/Al hydrotalcite (HTs) as a functional fire-retarding filler was successfully prepared by impregnation-reconstruction, where the HTs was used to prepare polypropylene (PP) and HTs composite (PP/HTs). Thermal decomposition was crucial
for correctly identifying the thermal behavior for the PP/HTs, and studied using thermogravimetry (TG) at different heating rates. Based on single TG curves and Málek method, as well as 41 mechanism functions, the thermal decompositions of the PP/HTs composite and PP in nitrogen atmosphere
were studied under non-isothermal conditions. The mechanism functions of the thermal decomposition reactions for the PP/HTs composite and PP were separately “chemical reaction F3” and “phase boundary reaction R2,” which were also in good agreement
with corresponding experimental data. It was found that the addition of the HTs increased the apparent activation energy Ea of the PP/HTs comparing to the PP, which improved the thermal stability of the polypropylene. A difference in the set of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters
was also observed between the PP/HTs and PP, particularly with respect to lower ΔS≠ value assigned to higher thermal stability of the PP/HTs composite.
A Novel Morpholine-Based Rhodamine Fluorescent Chemosensor for the Rapid Detection of Hg2+ Ions
Authors: Park Hwalkee , Naveen Mergu , An Kyoung-Lyong , Jun Kun , Son Young-A
Published: May 2019

A novel rhodamine-based receptor bearing a morpholine (RDM) was developed as a fluorescent chemosensor with high selectivity toward Hg2+. After the addition of Hg2+ to RDM, the color of the solution changed from colorless to pink, and the new absorption band appears
at 580 nm. The fluorescent of RDM appears to orange color in the presence of Hg2+. Upon the addition of Hg2+, ring-opening of the corresponding spirolactam gives rise to fluorescence, and a 1:1 metal-ligand complex formed.
Preparation of Submicron Metastable Spherical β-Bi2O3 Particles by Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis Method
Authors: Zhang Chu , Wang Qi-Yu , Li Ming-De , Zhang Guo-Dong
Published: May 2019

Sub-micrometer particles of β-Bi2O3 were successfully synthesized via a one-step self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method for the first time. The experiments were carried out in the air at room temperature. The products were characterized
by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In this study, three experiments were designed to optimize the heat source, Bi source and additive for the reaction system. Results showed that the system composed of Al, Bi2O3
and Al2O3 powders could synthesize monodisperse high-purity β-Bi2O3 spherical particles with the average diameter of 369 nm and the as-prepared products kept stable after being exposed in air for one month. Then, the influences of the
ratio of the three components on system were investigated. Interestingly, it was found that a slight adjustment on the ratio of Al:Bi2O3:Al2O3 had significant effects on the reactions happening in a system. Specifically, when the amount of Al2O3
exceeds the molar ratio of 2:1:1 (Al:Bi2O3:Al2O3), it is difficult to ignite the reaction system; when the amount is less than 2:1:0.5, the reaction system becomes too violent to obtain pure products. However, there are no obvious differences on
the morphology and structure of final products with the two ratios because of few changes in adiabatic temperature. Preparation of β-Bi2O3 by SHS technique enjoying many advantages, such as high efficiency, inexpensive experimental equipment and simple processes,
would has a promising prospect for industrial application.
Facile Synthesis of Monodispersed Co Nanoparticles on Titanium Carbides for Hydrolysis of Ammonia Borane at Mild Temperature
Authors: Liu Tong , Wang Qing-Tao , Sun Yong-Heng , Zhao Mei
Published: May 2019

Herein, we successfully immobilized non-noble Co nanoparticles on titanium carbides (MXene) for the hydrolysis of ammonia borane by a simple co-reduction route. The synthesized Co nanoparticles with the size of 3.2 nm were monodispersed on MXene surface. The Co NPs/MXene exhibited excellent
catalytic performance for the hydrolysis of ammonia borane with TOF value of 39.9 molH2 mol−1cat min−1 at 323 K. The enhanced catalytic property was mainly due to the ultrafine nanoparticles formed on MXene surface. More importantly,
the catalytic activity for hydrolysis of ammonia borane did not significantly decrease for up to 6 recycling tests, indicating the remarkable reusability of Co NPs/MXene. Furthermore, this study opens up a new strategy for the preparation of non-noble metallic nanocatalysts with high performance
for hydrolysis reactions in practical hydrogen storage systems, thereby fast-tracking the application of ammonia borane in fuel cells.
Probing the Performance of Glucose Oxidase Treated Graphene-Based Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Siddique Salma , Mukhtar Hamid
Published: May 2019

Graphene due to its unique properties of biocompatibility has received considerable attention for biosensing applications. Here, we report the effect of glucose oxidase treatment on the graphene devices. Raman spectroscopy and the electrical transport measurements are performed to study
the graphene intrinsic characteristics before glucose oxidase treatment. The absence of the defect peak in the Raman spectrum shows high-quality graphene. The modulation in the electrical properties is further investigated by different period of glucose oxidase treatment. Our results illustrate
that the mobility of the graphene-based field effect transistor is gradually enhanced with the glucose oxidase treatment time. The enhancement in the electrical performance of graphene FET with the biomolecules could be the suitable route for the bioelectronic devices.
Pride and prejudice: Exploring how identity processes shape public attitudes towards Australian counter-terrorism measures
Authors: Williamson Harley
Published: May 2019

Counter-terrorism measures are often described as pre-emptive, punitive, and afford authorities exclusive and expanded powers. Yet they continue to attract public support. Why is this the case? A consistent finding in traditional crime control research shows a link between perceived threat from racial or ethnic minority groups and their perceived involvement in crime. This perceived relationship results in public support for punitive crime control measures for such groups. Similar connections can be made between terrorism and Muslims. It is thus possible that perceiving Muslims to be threatening may help explain enhanced public support towards harsh counter-terrorism measures. This study draws on survey data of a national sample Australian residents (N = 1199) to test this hypothesis. Findings show the importance of both identity processes and perceptions of Muslims as threatening in shaping support for punitive counter-terrorism strategies. Results also demonstrate how social identity can moderate the effect of perceived threat on support for such strategies. Theoretical and policy implications of this study are outlined.
Assessment priorities in cerebral palsy using ICF core set by Iranian occupational therapists
Authors: Raji Parvin , Mehraban Afsoon Hassani , Ahmadi Maryam , Schiariti Veronica
Published: May 2019

Background.

International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) core set for cerebral palsy allows for the description of the levels of functioning in cerebral palsy. It is not exactly clear which of these levels is more important for evaluation from the perspective of occupational therapists in Iran. By identifying these priorities, we can establish a better plan for intervention.

Purpose.

This study defines assessment priorities in children with cerebral palsy (<6 years).

Method.

Sixty-two Iranian occupational therapists studied the priorities of assessment based on the Iranian ICF core set. The therapists were asked to rate the code categories from 1 to 3. The results are presented as mean values.

Findings.

Occupational therapists first focus on body functions assessment, then activities/participation, and ultimately, environmental factors.

Implications.

Occupational therapists in Iran have a bottom-up approach toward clients with cerebral palsy. It may be necessary to revise the educational curriculum, prepare a training course, and provide more supervision for practising occupational therapists.
Synergetic effect of fullerene and graphene oxide nanoparticles on mechanical characteristics of cross-linked polyurethanes under static and dynamic loading
Authors: Tarasov Alexander E , Anokhin Denis V , Propad Yana V , Bersenev Egor A , Razorenov Sergey V , Garkushin Gennady V , Badamshina Elmira R
Published: May 2019

The effect of low concentration of fullerene, graphene oxide and their combinations at an 85/15 ratio as additives on structure and mechanical properties of cross-linked polyurethanes has been studied at static and dynamic loading. Structure of nanocomposites has been determined from X-ray analysis and scanning electron microscopy. It has been shown that the presence of carbon nanoparticles in a composite results in its lower strength under both static and shock-wave loads. The synergetic effect of carbon nanoparticles mixture is revealed to have 1.25 times higher Young's modulus as compared with native polymer.
Lessons Learned From a Multidisciplinary Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Blankson A. Nayena , Guillory Jimmeka J. , Jackson Francesina R. , Viceisza Angelino C. G. , Wade Bruce H.
Published: May 2019

This article discusses some of the lessons that our multidisciplinary team (spanning Economics, Education, Psychology, and Sociology) learned from implementing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the impact of metacognitive training on outcomes of Black female college students. Because our data collection is ongoing, the purpose of this article is to describe the collaborative efforts required to make such a project a success and share lessons learned. Future papers will focus on the quantitative findings of the RCTs by looking at the impacts on outcomes such as metacognitive awareness, grade point average, and retention.
Velocity and pressure visualization of three-dimensional flow in porous textiles
Authors: Lee Jeesoo , Yang Byungkuen , Cho Jee-Hyun , Song Simon
Published: May 2019

Advances in flow visualization techniques based on optics, such as lasers and digital cameras, have contributed considerably to the development of various flow models. However, the uses of optical techniques for flow visualization in porous media are limited owing to the complexity or opaqueness of the medium. This study demonstrates the utilization of magnetic resonance velocimetry to visualize a flow field in a textile material. By using phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging, a three-dimensional, three-component velocity vector field was obtained for induced flow through a cut-pile carpet owing to the suction of a vacuum cleaner nozzle. As a result, we were able to experimentally identify the flow-dominant region in the carpet. Specifically, velocity vector plots and flow streamlines facilitated the identification of the flow paths, and indicated that the flow was strongest beneath the narrow walls of the vacuum nozzle. In addition, the pressure field in the carpet was estimated by an omni-directional integral method based on the utilization of the visualized velocity field, which showed where the pressure loss was maximized.
India as database: Response to Reetika Khera
Authors: Cohen Lawrence
Published: May 2019

If sociology is ‘missing’ from the Aadhaar debate, to take Reetika Khera’s provocation seriously, the absence may reflect a disciplinary reluctance to accede to normative terms of contest in which the biometric identity platform must be rendered as boon or blight. Though a refusal of such normative formulations may be necessary, it carries its own ethical limit. Beyond the question of normative assessment, Aadhaar raises multiple additional questions. Several are noted here, questions on Aadhaar as regime of de-duplication; on database as emergent social imaginary; on the immateriality of Aadhaar; and on the collapse of welfare, wage, credit and product into ‘service’ as the emergent form of value.
A novel deep neural network method for electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Li Xiuyan , Zhou Yong , Wang Jianming , Wang Qi , Lu Yang , Duan Xiaojie , Sun Yukuan , Zhang Jingwan , Liu Zongyu
Published: May 2019

Image reconstruction for Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is a highly nonlinear and ill-posed inverse problem. It requires the design and employment of feasible reconstruction methods capable to guarantee trustworthy image generation. Deep Neural Networks (DNN) have a powerful ability to express complex nonlinear functions. This research paper introduces a novel framework based on DNN aiming to achieve EIT image reconstruction. The proposed DNN model, comprises of the following two layers, namely: The Stacked Autoencoder (SAE) and the Logistic Regression (LR). It is trained using the large lab samples which are obtained by the COMSOL simulation software (a cross platform finite elements analysis solver). The relationship between the voltage measurement and the internal conductivity distribution is determined. The untrained voltage measurement samples are used as input to the trained DNN, and the output is an estimate for image reconstruction of the internal conductivity distribution. The results show that the proposed model can achieve reliable shape and size reconstruction. When white Gaussian noise with a signal-to-noise ratio of 30, 40 and 50 were added to test set, the proposed DNN structure still has good imaging results, which proved the anti-noise capability of the network. Furthermore, the network that was trained using simulation data sets, would be applied for the EIT image reconstruction based on the experimental data that were produced after preprocessing.
Learning to Fail: Adolescent Resistance in Extreme Sports
Authors: Gieseler Carly
Published: May 2019

Employing dysfunctional or arrested development, extreme sports tricksters cultivate diverse strategies of sporting identity. Through parody, satire, and mockery, adolescent performances and representations resist hegemonic ideologies of mainstream sports masculinity. This work interrogates the representational and performative texts, events, and bodies of extreme sports using queer theories and psychoanalytic approaches. To assess failure as a potentially strategic and radical mode of counter-hegemonic resistance, I trace the origins of extreme sports cultures through icons such as Evel Knievel and the Dangerous Sports Club. I also look at a modern heir apparent—action sporting collective Nitro Circus. In failing at mainstream sporting masculinities, these athletes create different ways of being and doing sport through commoditization, adolescence, gender, Whiteness, corporeality, and death.
Why didn’t you write this in your diary? Or how nurses (mis)used clinic diaries to (re)claim shared reflexive spaces in Senegal
Authors: Duclos Diane , Ndoye Tidiane , Faye Sylvain L , Diallo Mareme , Penn-Kekana Loveday
Published: May 2019

Between 2015 and 2017, we implemented the clinic diaries project as part of the qualitative component of an evaluation of a supply chain intervention for family planning in Senegal. This project combined different tools including the diaries and participatory workshops with nurses. At the intersection between writings and silences, this paper explores the role played by the clinic diaries to mediate ethnographic encounters, and the iterative nature of ‘doing fieldwork’ to produce knowledge in hierarchical health systems. This paper also reflects on the processes through which the diaries created a space where accounts of lived experiences routinely unfolding in health facilities could be shared, in the context of a health system increasingly dominated by metrics, performances and vertical reporting mechanisms. The clinic diaries research process therefore sheds light on the limits of approaching bureaucratic norms and practices as coming from the top, an approach reinforced by data reporting and coordination mechanisms in the Senegalese pyramidal health system. In contrast, the diaries suggest a role for participative ethnography to identify collegial spaces to reflect on shared experiences in and of bureaucratic spaces.
New Method for Detecting Oil Contaminants in Asphalt Mixtures through Chemical Testing
Authors: Ding Yongjie , Huang Baoshan , Shu Xiang , Tang Boming
Published: May 2019

In this study, an analytic method was developed for detecting potential oil contaminants in asphalt mixtures using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). This study was initiated when the authors were contacted by a major contractor whose field crew reported spots of loose asphalt pavement and suspected the pavement surface was being contaminated with spills of petroleum-based oils or other soluble chemicals. Oil contamination would change the content and performance grade of the asphalt binder in the mixture, thus compromising the properties and performance of the asphalt pavement. The proposed method involved extracting asphalt binders from potentially contaminated asphalt mixtures using the solvent tetrahydrofuran (THF), testing the extracted binders using GPC and FTIR, and comparing their results with those of the pure asphalt binder and oil contaminants. This study first verified the proposed method by testing artificially contaminated asphalt binders at different contamination contents and then evaluated seven potentially contaminated asphalt mixtures from the job site, as well as six possible oil contaminants. The study shows that the GPC results yielded convincing evidence whether or not asphalt mixtures were contaminated and that the FTIR results were effective in detecting specific oil contaminants using their characteristic peaks.
Impact of Neighborhood Built Environments on Shopping Travel Modes in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wu Hao , Chen Yong , Jiao Junfeng
Published: May 2019

Walking is one of the most widely used means of transport. Neighborhood built environments have a direct influence on individuals’ daily commuting, recreational travel patterns, and shopping travel behavior. In Chinese cities, shopping activities are among the most frequent reasons for daily travel. Yet, research on the impact of neighborhood built environments on people’s shopping travel activities in high-density cities is limited. To fill this research gap, this study investigates how neighborhood built environments might affect pedestrians’ shopping travel activities in Shanghai, China. The data, which includes shopping travel patterns, perceived environmental characteristics, and individual socioeconomic status, were collected from a survey of 21 randomly selected neighborhoods in Shanghai in 2011. In total, data from 2,838 samples (participants) were collected. Multinomial logistic regression was used to investigate how neighborhood built environments affect residents’ choice of travel mode for shopping, that is, the likelihood of taking transit, driving, or biking vs. walking. Results showed that nearly half of people surveyed (43.3%) used walking as their primary shopping mode. Road network density, presence of primary schools, and average sidewalk width were positively correlated with the likelihood of using walking as the primary shopping mode. Gender, age, and car ownership were also significant in the model.
The Madonna-Whore Dichotomy Is Associated With Patriarchy Endorsement: Evidence From Israel, the United States, and Germany
Authors: Kahalon Rotem , Bareket Orly , Vial Andrea C. , Sassenhagen Nora , Becker Julia C. , Shnabel Nurit
Published: May 2019

The madonna-whore dichotomy denotes polarized perceptions of women as either good and chaste or as bad and promiscuous. In the present research, we examined the correlates of madonna-whore dichotomy among samples of heterosexual Israeli, U.S., and German women and heterosexual U.S. and German men. Demonstrating cross-cultural generalizability, madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement correlated with endorsement of patriarchy-supporting ideologies across samples. U.S. (but not German) men’s madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement negatively correlated with their sexual satisfaction in romantic relationships, which in turn predicted lower general relationship satisfaction. Among women, madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement did not correlate with sexual or general relationship satisfaction. These findings (a) support the feminist perspective on the madonna-whore dichotomy, which points to the role of the stereotype in policing women and limiting their sexual freedom; and (b) provide evidence that madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement can have personal costs for men. Increasing awareness to the motivations underlying the madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement and its costs can be beneficial at the social and personal levels for women and men, by providing knowledge that may help in developing focused interventions to change existing perceptions and scripts about sexuality, and perhaps foster more satisfying heterosexual relationships.
Mental Health Recovery Narratives and Their Impact on Recipients: Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Rennick-Egglestone Stefan , Morgan Kate , Llewellyn-Beardsley Joy , Ramsay Amy , McGranahan Rose , Gillard Steve , Hui Ada , Ng Fiona , Schneider Justine , Booth Susie , Pinfold Vanessa , Davidson Larry , Franklin Donna , Bradstreet Simon , Arbour Simone , Slade Mike
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Mental health recovery narratives are often shared in peer support work and antistigma campaigns. Internet technology provides access to an almost unlimited number of narratives, and yet little is known about how they affect recipients. The aim of this study was to develop a conceptual framework characterizing the impact of recovery narratives on recipients.

Method:

A systematic review of evidence about the impact of mental health recovery narratives was conducted. Searches used electronic databases ( n = 9), reference tracking, hand-searching of selected journals ( n = 2), grey literature searching, and expert consultation ( n = 7). A conceptual framework was generated through a thematic analysis of included articles, augmented by consultation with a Lived Experience Advisory Panel.

Results:

In total, 8137 articles were screened. Five articles were included. Forms of impact were connectedness, understanding of recovery, reduction in stigma, validation of personal experience, affective responses, and behavioural responses. Impact was moderated by characteristics of the recipient, context, and narrative. Increases in eating disorder behaviours were identified as a harmful response specific to recipients with eating disorders.

Conclusions:

Mental health recovery narratives can promote recovery. Recovery narratives might be useful for clients with limited access to peers and in online interventions targeted at reducing social isolation in rural or remote locations, but support is needed for the processing of the strong emotions that can arise. Caution is needed for use with specific clinical populations. Protocol registration: Prospero-CRD42018090923.
Neighborhood Exposure to Violence and Delinquency in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Partial Test of Social Structure and Social Learning Theory
Authors: Connolly Eric J. , Said Al-Ghamdi Mohammed , Nezar Kobeisy Ahmed , Alqurashi Fathiyah H. , Schwartz Joseph A. , Beaver Kevin M.
Published: May 2019

The social structure and social learning (SSSL) model for crime and deviance has received an impressive amount of empirical support in the United States and other Western industrialized countries. Comparatively, less research, however, has examined whether the SSSL model offers a viable framework for explaining variation in delinquent behavior in other geographic contexts, particularly, countries that place a stronger emphasis on social control stemming from both formal and religious sources. The current study addresses this void in the literature by examining a sample of youth from Saudi Arabia, a Middle Eastern country that enforces Sharia (a set of laws based in Islamic tradition) and strict gender roles. The association between neighborhood exposure to violence and risk for violent and nonviolent delinquent behavior was examined using structural equation models. Subsequent models were aimed at more closely examining the mediating role of delinquent peer association between neighborhood exposure to violence and violent and nonviolent delinquent behavior. Results indicate that males exposed to neighborhood violence are more likely to engage in violent and nonviolent delinquent behavior, whereas females are more likely to engage in violent, but not nonviolent, delinquent behavior. In line with the SSSL model, delinquent peer association fully mediates the direct effect of neighborhood exposure to violence on delinquent behavior in both males and females. Findings from the current study suggest that the SSSL model may provide a useful framework for explaining individual differences in delinquent behavior in Saudi Arabia.
The Characteristics of Targets of Bullying Among Chinese Youth Attending Key Versus Non-Key Schools: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Zhao Yongping , Lee Yueh-Ting , Tang Yuanqiong , York Mary
Published: May 2019

The current study examined the characteristics of targets of bullying using a sample of students from two distinct school types (key vs. non-key), wherein key middle schools are defined as having better teaching resources and higher performing students than non-key middle schools. Open-ended, self-report surveys were collected from 322 Chinese students in sixth to 11th grades. Two cycle coding methods analyses generated 3,566 original codes in which 21 main categories and 77 subcategories were extracted. Five major themes emerged: multiple deviant personalities; prominent puniness and imperfect body characteristics accompanied by polarization of appearance; polarization school engagement and academic performance; psychological and behavioral problems; and problematic family and social contexts. Results of chi-square analysis indicated characteristics of targets of bullying were significantly different between key and non-key school in 12 main categories. Implications for ecological systems theory and person-group dissimilarity theory as well as bullying prevention approaches in schools are discussed.
Mechanical properties and morphologies of polypropylene composites synergistically reinforced-toughened by styrene–butadiene rubber and graphene oxide nanosheets
Authors: Wang Zhengjun , Guo Yi , Yan Lei , Bian Jun , Liu Hongcai , Huang Huan , Lin Hailan , Sude Ma , Lijun Wang , Gu Zhijie
Published: May 2019

Chemically reduced graphene (C- rGO) nanosheets were first prepared from graphene oxide (GO), and then the polypropylene (PP) composites synergistically reinforced–toughened by styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR), and C- rGO nanosheets were fabricated via melt blending. The mechanical properties of PP can be considerably improved by synergistically filling with C- rGO nanosheets and SBR, especially for the notched Izod impact strength (IS). The results from the X-ray diffraction, polarizing optical micrographs, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetric, dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis measurements reveal that: (1) the β-phase crystal structure of the PP is formed when the C- rGO and SBR are synergistically filled with PP and its formation plays a role for the enhancement of the impact strength for PP/SBR/C- rGO composites; (2) the dispersion of the C- rGO and SBR in the PP/SBR/C- rGO composites is homogeneous, indicating that synergistic incorporating method decreases the aggregation of nanosheets and thus increases the sites for dissipation of shock for impact energy in the PP/SBR/C- rGO composites; and (3) the thermal analysis shows high thermal stability for the PP/SBR/C- rGO composites.
Relational Views of Humanness: The Reciprocity of Ontos and Telos
Authors: Pally Marcia
Published: May 2019

This article explores humanity’s ontology of relationality and telos of the common good as not only inseparable but mutually constitutive, drawing on the work of Thomas Aquinas and looking into the debates between Charles De Koninck and Jacques Maritain.
Simulations of the dynamic response of planetary gears in the presence of localised tooth faults
Authors: Thoret-Bauchet Q , Velex P , Guingand M , Casanova P
Published: May 2019

This paper is aimed at analysing the influence of local tooth faults such as pitting on the dynamic behaviour of planetary gears. A model of one-stage planetary gear combining lumped parameters and Timoshenko beam elements is presented, which accounts for deformable shafts and ring gears. Local tooth fault are simulated by material removal from tooth flanks, which can be positioned on the sun-gear, the planets and the ring-gear. The corresponding state equations are solved by combining a Newmark time-step integration scheme combined with a unilateral normal contact algorithm, which verifies that all contact forces on gear teeth are compressive and that no contact can occur outside the contact areas. A number of results are presented, which show the influence of tooth fault positions, depths and extents on displacement and acceleration signals. The contribution of a deformable ring-gear is analysed and the possibility to detect such localised tooth faults from vibration monitoring is discussed.
Thermal comparison of heavy vehicle wheel assemblies under alpine braking
Authors: Subel Joshua , Kienhöfer Frank W
Published: May 2019

Overheating brakes cause brake fade, tyre blowouts and vehicle fires, but no study has investigated the influence of wheel configuration or rim material on these catastrophic failures. Laboratory measurements of the transient thermal response of heavy vehicle wheel assemblies to [Formula: see text] of alpine friction braking are presented; comparing brake and tyre temperature when using dual and single wheels with steel and aluminium rims. Under an averaged braking power of [Formula: see text], the final temperature increase of the brake was [Formula: see text] (3.7%) higher when using steel versus aluminium rims. The final increase in maximum tyre temperature was [Formula: see text] (16%) higher when using aluminium versus steel rims and [Formula: see text] (76%) higher when using single versus dual wheels. The greater thermal conductivity and cross-sectional area of the aluminium rims relative to the steel rims reduce the thermal resistance of braking heat flowing into the tyre; leading to higher tyre temperature when using aluminium rims. Dual rims and tyres have larger surface areas than singles which convect more heat to the air at lower temperatures; leading to cooler tyres when using dual wheels. The higher thermal diffusivity of aluminium and lower thermal capacities of single wheels also cause tyre temperature to rise more rapidly than when using steel rims or dual wheels. These results indicate that the risk of tyres overheating (which could lead to blowout) from extended use of the brakes is increased when using single wheels compared to dual wheels and further exacerbated by using aluminium rims compared to steel rims.
The Effects of Life Expectancy and Financial Crisis on the Stock Market Development in Africa
Authors: Umar Bamanga , Nayan Sabri
Published: May 2019

The African stock market remains underdeveloped despite the increased number of stock exchanges in the region characterized by low market capitalization, volume and illiquidity. The efforts of the previous policies to promote stock market development and restore investors’ confidence in the region did not yield a positive outcome, as they are yet to meet the rising demand for capital by domestic firms. This article investigates the effects of life expectancy and financial crisis on the stock market development in Africa, using the pooled mean group (PMG) model for the sample period of 1996–2016. The findings reveal a positive and statistically significant long-run relationship between the life expectancy and stock market development. Furthermore, the financial crisis adversely affects the stock market development with an attendant decrease in investment. There is a need for policies that address infant mortality, encourage long-term investment and protect the African stock market against an adverse reaction of the financial crisis.
Students’ Experiences With Death and Dying Prior to Medical School: A Content Analysis of Students’ Written Reflections
Authors: Talwalkar Jaideep S. , Moriarty John P. , Ellman Matthew S.
Published: May 2019

Background:

Personal experiences with death and dying are common among medical students, but little is known about student attitudes and emotional responses to these experiences. Our objectives were to ascertain matriculating medical students’ experiences with death and dying, describe the range of students’ emotional responses, and identify reactions, behaviors, and perceived roles related to these and future experiences with death.

Methods:

We provided a writing prompt to newly matriculated medical students asking them to “reflect on experiences you may have had with family or friends near the end of life.” Content analysis was performed to identify themes in the responses.

Results:

The 104 students in the entering class submitted 90 individual free-text responses (87%). Most (57%) students specifically mentioned at least 1 personal experience with death, with a range of emotional responses including sadness (29%), surprise (14%), and guilt (12%). Distinct themes emerged on content analysis including personal experiences with death, anticipated response to death in future, changes in body or mind of the dying person, thoughts and observations about others, and cognitive or existential responses. Few students wrote about religion or spirituality (8%) or palliative or hospice care (2%).

Conclusions:

An understanding of students’ premedical school experiences and emotional reactions to death may help educators frame curricula around end-of-life care. Educators could apply enhanced awareness to help students process their own experiences as they begin caring for patients and to focus on areas that were underrepresented in students’ comments, such as religion, spirituality, palliative care, and hospice.
End-of-Life Cancer Care Redesign: Patient and Caregiver Experiences in a Lay Health Worker–Led Intervention
Authors: Patel Manali I. , Moore David , Coker Tumaini R.
Published: May 2019

Importance:

The Engagement of Patients with Advanced Cancer (EPAC), comprised of a lay health worker (LHW) who assists patients with advance care planning, is an effective intervention for improving patient experiences and reducing acute care use and total health-care costs. The objective of this study was to assess patients’ and caregivers’ experiences with the intervention.

Methods:

We invited all patients enrolled in EPAC and their caregivers to complete an 8-item survey at the end of the intervention and a random 35% sample to participate in a qualitative interview to assess their experiences. At 15-month follow-up, we invited all caregivers of patients who died during the study to participate in a qualitative interview. We analyzed survey responses using bivariate methods and recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Sixty-nine patients were alive at completion of the intervention and all 30 identified caregivers completed the survey. All viewed the intervention as a critical part of cancer care and recommended the intervention for other patients. In qualitative interviews, among 30 patients, all reported improved comfort in discussing their end-of-life care preferences. In qualitative interviews with 24 bereaved caregivers, all viewed the intervention as critical in ensuring that their loved ones’ wishes were adhered to at the end of life.

Conclusions and Relevance:

Incorporating an LHW into end-of-life cancer care is an approach supported and viewed as highly effective in improving care by patients and caregivers. The LHW-led EPAC intervention is one solution that can significantly impact patient and caregiver experiences.
Microglandular Adenosis: A Possible Non-Obligate Precursor to Breast Carcinoma With Potential to Either Luminal-Type or Basal-Type Differentiation
Authors: Damron Alexander T. , Korhonen Katrina , Zuckerman Samantha , Tchou Julia , Dumoff Kimberly L. , Bleiweiss Ira J. , Nayak Anupma
Published: May 2019

Microglandular adenosis (MGA) of the breast is exceedingly rare, with only a few case reports and series published to date. Previous studies have elegantly demonstrated the progression of benign MGA to atypical MGA to MGA-in situ carcinoma to invasive carcinoma and therefore suggest MGA as a possible non-obligate precursor lesion to a subset of breast carcinomas. Immunohistochemically, MGA is negative for estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2-neu oncoprotein expression, and carcinomas arising in the setting of MGA are often reported to be triple negative. In this article, we present a unique case of an ER+/PR+/HER2− invasive carcinoma associated with MGA and atypical MGA. Our case highlights the diagnostic pitfall of MGA and suggests that MGA is a heterogeneous group of lesions with potential for either luminal-type or basal-type differentiation during progression to breast carcinoma.
Viruses Going Viral: Impact of Fear-Arousing Sensationalist Social Media Messages on User Engagement
Authors: Ali Khudejah , Zain-ul-abdin Khawaja , Li Cong , Johns Lisa , Ali Ayesha Aziz , Carcioppolo Nicholas
Published: May 2019

Social media presents a promising yet competitive communication landscape for health practitioners and organizations during the rapid spread of an emerging infectious disease. The current study examined the association between the level of fear-arousing sensationalism and user engagement in 800 Facebook posts regarding the 2016 Zika virus outbreak. Results revealed that the majority of nonnews posts completely lacked sensationalist elements, and that user engagement increased significantly as the level of fear-arousing sensationalism increased from low levels. We discuss the potential value of message design that can engender an appropriate level of public concern and increase user engagement on social media.
Executive Function Impairments in Adolescents With Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Watach Alexa J. , Radcliffe Jerilynn , Xanthopoulos Melissa S. , Novick Marsha B. , Sawyer Amy M.
Published: May 2019

Adolescents with obesity and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) are at high risk of poor physical and cognitive health consequences. The purpose of this study was to explore executive function (EF) in adolescents with obesity and OSAS, describe physical activity and sleep duration, and explore the relationships between EF and physical activity and sleep duration. Participants comprised 20 adolescents (ages 11–17 years) with obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 95th percentile) and OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 1.5 events/hr) participated in this observational pilot study with a prospective 1-week measurement protocol. Outcome measures included EF by the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-2, physical activity by Previous Day Physical Activity Recall, and sleep by Consensus Sleep Diary and actigraphy. Adolescents with obesity and OSAS had significantly worse EF by self- and parent-report than the normative sample ( p ≤ .003), 45% had impaired EF and up to 30% had clinically significant impairments. Participants spent approximately 14.3 hr/day in light-intensity activity, and 33% did not engage in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity activity for at least 60 min on any days of data collection. Adolescents had insufficient sleep duration, averaging 6.9 hr/night. No significant relationships were identified between physical activity or sleep duration and EF. Providers should have a heightened awareness for EF impairments in obese adolescents with OSAS and consider how EF deficits may affect uptake and adherence to complex lifestyle and/or medical interventions among these patients.
The Effect of Genetically Guided Mathematical Prediction and the Blood Pressure Response to Pharmacotherapy in Hypertension Patients
Authors: Kelley Eli F , Olson Thomas P , Curry Timothy B , Sprissler Ryan , Snyder Eric M
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a simple algorithm to mathematically predict a patients’ response to blood pressure (BP) therapy using functional genes in the 3 major organ systems involved in hypertension.

Methods:

Eighty-six patients with controlled hypertension completed 1 study visit consisting of a buccal swab collection, measurement of office BP, and a medical chart review for BP history. Genes in the analysis included 14 functional alleles in 11 genes. These genotypes were mathematically summed per organ system to determine whether a patient would likely respond to target therapy.

Results:

Patients recommended to and taking a diuretic had significantly higher rates of control (<120/<80) than patients recommended but not taking this drug class (0.2 ± 0.1 and 0.03 ± 0.03, respectively). Furthermore, there was a difference between patients genetically recommended and taking an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) vs patients recommended but not taking an ARB for the lowest diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) recorded in the past 2 years (DBP = 66.2 ± 2.9 and 75.3 ± 1.7, MAP = 82.3 ± 2.8 and 89.3 ± 1.5, respectively). In addition, there was a nonsignificant trend for greater reductions in ΔSBP, ΔDBP, and ΔMAP in patients on recommended drug class for beta-blockers, diuretics, and angiotensin II receptor blockers vs patients not on these classes.

Conclusion:

The present study suggests that simple mathematical weighting of functional genotypes known to control BP may be ineffective in predicting control. This study demonstrates the need for a more complex, weighted, multigene algorithm to more accurately predict BP therapy response.