bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of fluocinolone acetonide 0.025% otic solution in patients with otic eczema: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Montoro Victoria , Asensio Carlos , Martínez Ángel , Lorente Juan , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Montojo José , Gavilanes Javier , Sarría Pedro , Langdon Cristóbal , Prades Eduard
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of fluocinolone acetonide 0.025% otic solution versus placebo in treating patients with otic eczema.

Methods

In this multicentre, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group phase 3 clinical trial, conducted at 12 Spanish centres between March 2012 and March 2013, patients received fluocinolone acetonide 0.025% or placebo otic solution twice daily for 7 days (days 1–7) with an 8-day follow-up (days 9–15). Outcome measures included change in itching from baseline (day 1) to study days 4–8 and 9–15, and change in otoscopic signs (erythema, oedema, and scaling) from baseline to the end of treatment (day 8) and end of follow-up (day 15).

Results

Patients treated with fluocinolone acetonide 0.025% (n = 66), as compared with placebo-treated patients (n = 69), showed significantly higher reductions in itching from baseline to study days 4–8 and 9–15, and in individual and global otoscopic signs from baseline to the end of treatment (day 8) and end of follow-up (day 15). Incidence and severity of adverse events was similar between the fluocinolone and placebo groups.

Conclusions

Fluocinolone acetonide 0.025% otic solution, administered twice daily for 7 days, is an effective and safe treatment for otic eczema.
Sexual Interests of Child Sexual Exploitation Material (CSEM) Consumers: Four Patterns of Severity Over Time
Authors: Fortin Francis , Proulx Jean
Published: August 2018

This study analyzed the evolution over time of the activity of consumers of child sexual exploitation material (CSEM). To this end, images and metadata were extracted from the hard drives of 40 individuals convicted of possession of child pornography and analyzed. A sample of these images ( N = 61,244) was categorized by the age of the subjects depicted and—using the Combating Paedophile Information Networks in Europe (COPINE) scale—by severity of the acts depicted. Collecting activity was observed to follow four patterns. The most prevalent pattern was a progressive decrease in the age of the person depicted and a progressive increase in the severity of the sexual acts. In light of the results, we propose four explanations of the nature of, and variations in, child-pornography collections.
The impact of a primary care stress management and wellbeing programme (RENEW) on occupational participation: A pilot study
Authors: Connolly Deirdre , Anderson Melanie , Colgan Mary , Montgomery Jennifer , Clarke Jennifer , Kinsella Marie
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Stress has been identified as a risk factor in both physical and mental illness and can negatively impact on an individual’s ability to participate in daily occupations. There has been an increased emphasis on addressing mental health in a primary care context using a health promotion approach. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the acceptability of a primary care 6-week stREss maNagemEnt and Well-being (RENEW) programme.

Method

This pilot study used a mixed methods convergent parallel design. Twelve individuals with self-reported experiences of stress participated in the programme. The Canadian Measure of Occupational Performance, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and visual analogue scales for stress, concentration, sleep and appetite were administered at three time points. A focus group and individual interviews explored participants’ experiences of the programme and impact on occupational participation.

Results

There were statistically significant improvements in occupational performance and satisfaction, anxiety and self-reported stress. Study participants reported that attendance at the programme increased their awareness of stress and gave them strategies to manage their stress.

Conclusion

The positive findings from this pilot study suggest that the RENEW programme has potential as a health promotion intervention in primary care that warrants further investigation.
Automated mapping of relict patterned ground: An approach to evaluate morphologically subdued landforms using unmanned-aerial-vehicle and structure-from-motion technologies
Authors: Mather AE , Fyfe RM , Clason CC , Stokes M , Mills S , Barrows TT
Published: August 2018

Relict landforms provide a wealth of information on the evolution of the modern landscape and climate change in the past. To improve understanding of the origin and development of these landforms we need better spatial measurements across a variety of scales. This can be challenging using conventional surveying techniques due to difficulties in landform recognition on the ground (e.g. weak visual/topographic expression) and spatially variable areas of interest. Here we explore the appropriateness of existing remote sensing datasets (aerial LiDAR and aerial photography) and newly acquired unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery of a test site on the upland of Dartmoor in SW England (Leeden Tor) for the recognition and automated mapping of relict patterned ground composed of stripes and polygons. We find that the recognition of these landforms is greatly enhanced by automated mapping using spectral two-dimensional imagery. Image resolution is important, with the recognition of elements (boulders) of <1 m maximised from the highest resolution imagery (UAV red-green-blue (RGB)) and recognition of landforms (10–100 m scale) maximised on coarser resolution aerial imagery. Topographic metrics of these low relief (0.5 m) landforms are best extracted from structure-from-motion (SfM) processed UAV true-colour imagery, and in this context the airborne LiDAR data proved less effective. Integrating automated mapping using spectral attributes and SfM-derived digital surface models from UAV RGB imagery provides a powerful tool for rapid reconnaissance of field sites to facilitate the extraction of meaningful topographic and spatial metrics that can inform on the origin of relict landform features. Care should be given to match the scale of features under consideration to the appropriate scale of datasets available.
Professor Geikie’s 1880 paper, ‘Rock-weathering, as illustrated in Edinburgh Churchyards’, in Proceedings of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Vol. 10, pages 518–532: Contribution to weathering and cross-disciplinary necrogeography within physical geography
Authors: Thornbush MJ , Thornbush SE
Published: August 2018

This Classics Revisited paper examines the contribution of Geikie’s seminal paper, presented to The Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1880, to physical geography as part of geomorphology, weathering, and necrogeography. From this standpoint, physical geography is approached as interdisciplinary, housing geomorphology and cross-disciplinary and applied research in the areas of climate and the environment affecting urban settings. Mortuary evidence is specifically addressed here, as Geikie presented observations and discussion of older churchyards situated in Edinburgh, Scotland. His emphasis permitted a focus on rock-air interactions of funerary remains carved from calcareous materials, sandstones and flagstones, and granites. The former (marbles and limestones) represent the main content of the paper, with an emphasis on superficial solution, internal disintegration, and curvature and fracture affecting calcareous rocks. Geikie’s areas of research interest are still prevalent in the literature today and can be construed as a pioneering work, representing a formative part of rock weathering affected by both climatic and environmental geomorphology in an urban setting.
Rationale for electrical parameter determination in external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) for migraine: A narrative review
Authors: Lauritsen Clinton G , Silberstein Stephen D
Published: August 2018

Background

Migraine is a primary headache disorder involving dysregulation of central and peripheral pain pathways. Medical treatment is often limited by drug side effects, comorbidities and poor compliance. This makes neuromodulation an ideal option for migraine treatment. Cefaly® is a transcutaneous electrical neurostimulator designed specifically for migraine treatment. It results in external trigeminal nerve stimulation of the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves. External trigeminal nerve stimulation is effective for acute and preventive migraine treatment and may result in normalization of dysregulated pain pathways.

Objective

Our objective was to provide a narrative review of the neuroanatomical and pathophysiological basis of external trigeminal nerve stimulation for migraine treatment and to provide the rationale behind the choice of the electrical parameters used for external trigeminal nerve stimulation.

Methods

We reviewed external trigeminal nerve stimulation clinical trial publications, basic science neurostimulation literature, publications describing pathophysiological mechanisms in migraine, and documentation used in the application for the Food and Drug Administration approval of external trigeminal nerve stimulation.

Results

The electrical parameters used for external trigeminal nerve stimulation were chosen to maximize safety and efficacy. Critical parameters include generator characteristics, pulse shape, pulse duration, pulse frequency and session duration and frequency. We explain the rationale behind determination of each parameter. There is evidence of dysregulated central and peripheral pathways in migraine and evidence that external trigeminal nerve stimulation may normalize function of these pathways.

Conclusion

External trigeminal nerve stimulation is a safe and effective Food and Drug Administration-approved option for the acute and preventive treatment of migraine. The electrical parameters were optimized specifically for external stimulation of the trigeminal nerve to maximum safety, comfort and efficacy.
A Real-Time Service Management Decision Support System for Train Dispatching at New York City Transit
Authors: Wood Daniel , Stasko Timon , Tarte Lauren , Jefferson Darian , Reddy Alla
Published: August 2018

With ridership near modern highs, New York City Transit’s (NYCT) subway network frequently operates at or near capacity. This makes maintaining a high-quality service both challenging, due to the lack of “slack,” and exceptionally important, due to the large number of riders affected by disruptions. To this end, train dispatchers constantly monitor the network and adjust service to respond to delays. This paper presents a decision support system developed by NYCT which uses real-time train movements and historical ridership information to provide dispatchers with recommendations for holds and station skips in real time. The system uses heuristic headway criteria to determine hold or skip candidate trains, and then estimates the net passenger time savings of each potential hold or skip using estimated origin–destination flows and basic assumptions about passenger behavior. Potential actions that meet a passenger benefit threshold are recommended, and communicated to dispatchers with a simple dashboard. A pilot implementation of the system has been in use at NYCT’s Rail Control Center (RCC) for several months, though many details of the system are still in development. Initial observations indicate the system is helping dispatchers manage train service more effectively, producing large passenger time savings.
Off-Ramp Coupling Conditions Devoid of Spurious Blocking and Re-Routing
Authors: Salehi Najmeh , Somers Julia , Seibold Benjamin
Published: August 2018

When modeling vehicular traffic flow on highway networks via macroscopic models, suitable coupling conditions at the network nodes are crucial. Frequently, the evolution of traffic flow on each network edge is described in a lane-averaged fashion using a single-class Lighthill-Whitham-Richards model. At off-ramps, split ratios (i.e., what percentage of traffic exits the highway) are prescribed that can be drawn from historical data. In this situation, classic FIFO coupling conditions yield unrealistic results, in that a clogged off-ramp yields zero flux through the node. As a remedy, non-FIFO conditions have been proposed. However, as we demonstrate here, those lead to spurious re-routing of vehicles. A new coupling model, FIFO with queue (FIFOQ), is presented which preserves the desirable properties of non-FIFO models while not leading to any spurious re-routing.
Prioritization of Climate Change Adaptation Interventions in a Road Network combining Spatial Socio-Economic Data, Network Criticality Analysis, and Flood Risk Assessments
Authors: Espinet Xavier , Rozenberg Julie
Published: August 2018

Climate change puts at risk all current and future transport projects. Investing proactively in climate adaptation of transport infrastructure is paramount to providing resilience and sustainable transport systems that may promote social and economic growth. Despite the importance of such investments, the financial resources of many road administrations are constrained, creating an urgent need to allocate these resources efficiently to capture the highest social, environmental, and economic benefits. This paper aims to tackle this issue by presenting a methodology to prioritize climate change adaptation interventions based on a set of economic, social, and risk reduction criteria. This method uses a network-wide approach to the road system in order to capture co-benefits, redundancies, and costs of disruption of road segments due to flood events. All underlying data in each of the criteria is part of a geospatial database that includes the location of agriculture, fishery production areas, high poverty, and flood maps. The methodology was developed at the request of the World Bank Africa Team to support the Government of Mozambique to prioritize climate change adaptation intervention in two central provinces, Zambezia and Nampula. After combining criteria for agriculture, fishery, poverty, network criticality, and hazard risk, the results suggest that most roads in the coastal districts of these provinces could be identified as top priority for climate change adaptation interventions.
Normal fluid stresses are prevalent in rotary ventricular assist devices: A computational fluid dynamics analysis
Authors: Khoo Dominica PY , Cookson Andrew N , Gill Harinderjit S , Fraser Katharine H
Published: August 2018

Despite the evolution of ventricular assist devices, ventricular assist device patients still suffer from complications due to the damage to blood by fluid dynamic stress. Since rotary ventricular assist devices are assumed to exert mainly shear stress, studies of blood damage are based on shear flow experiments. However, measurements and simulations of cell and protein deformation show normal and shear stresses deform, and potentially damage, cells and proteins differently. The aim was to use computational fluid dynamics to assess the prevalence of normal stress, in comparison with shear stress, in rotary ventricular assist devices. Our calculations showed normal stresses do occur in rotary ventricular assist devices: the fluid volumes experiencing normal stress above 10 Pa were 0.011 mL (0.092%) and 0.027 mL (0.39%) for the HeartWare HVAD and HeartMate II (HMII), and normal stresses over 100 Pa were present. However, the shear stress volumes were up to two orders of magnitude larger than the normal stress volumes. Considering thresholds for red blood cell and von Willebrand factor deformation by normal and shear stresses, the fluid volumes causing deformation by normal stress were between 2.5 and 5 times the size of those causing deformation by shear stress. The exposure times to the individual normal stress deformation regions were around 1 ms. The results clearly show, for the first time, that while blood within rotary ventricular assist devices experiences more shear stress at much higher magnitudes as compared with normal stress, there is sufficient normal stress exposure present to cause deformation of, and potentially damage to, the blood components. This study is the first to quantify the fluid stress components in real blood contacting devices.
The use of a virtual patient to follow changes in arterial blood gases associated with therapeutic thoracentesis
Authors: Stecka Anna M , Gólczewski Tomasz , Grabczak Elżbieta M , Zieliński Krzysztof , Michnikowski Marcin , Zielińska-Krawczyk Monika , Korczyński Piotr , Krenke Rafał
Published: August 2018

Purposes:

Some controversies exist on the effect of therapeutic thoracentesis (TT) on arterial blood oxygen tension. The aim of this study was to evaluate this issue using a previously developed virtual patient.

Methods:

The analysis was based and supported by clinical data collected during 36 TT. Pleural pressure and transcutaneous oxygen and carbon dioxide pressures (PtcO2 and PtcCO2) were measured during pleural fluid withdrawal. Arterial blood oxygen tension and arterial CO2 tension (PaO2 and PaCO2) were analysed in simulations that mimicked TT. Minute ventilation was adjusted to maintain arterial CO2 tension at a constant level unless arterial blood oxygen tension fell below 8 kPa. Specifically, the influence of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction efficiency was tested.

Results:

In patients, PtcCO2 remained at an approximately constant level (average amplitude: 0.63 ± 0.29 kPa), while some fluctuations of PtcO2 were observed (amplitude: (1.65 ± 1.18 kPa) were observed. In 42% of patients, TT was associated with decrease in PtcCO2. Simulations showed the following: (a) there were similar PaO2 fluctuations in the virtual patient; (b) the lower the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction efficiency, the more pronounced the PaO2 fall during fluid withdrawal; and (c) the lower the atelectatic lung areas recruitment rate, the slower the PaO2 normalization. The decrease in PaO2 was caused by an increase of pulmonary shunt.

Conclusion:

Therapeutic thoracentesis may cause both an increase and a decrease in PaO2 during the procedure. Pleural pressure decrease, caused by pleural fluid withdrawal, improves the perfusion of atelectatic lung areas. If the rate of recruitment of these areas is low, a lack of ventilation causes the arterial blood oxygen tension to fall. Effective hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction may protect against the pulmonary shunt.
Factorial Validity of the Anxiety Questionnaire for Students (AFS): Bifactor Modeling and Measurement Invariance
Authors: Lohbeck Annette , Petermann Franz
Published: August 2018

The present study with 2,273 students aimed to examine the factorial validity of the Anxiety Questionnaire for Students (AFS) by using the bifactor modeling framework, that is, contrasting a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) model to an exploratory structural equation model (ESEM) and two bifactor models (B-CFA and B-ESEM). In addition, measurement invariance and latent mean differences in the three facets of the AFS (test anxiety, manifest anxiety, dislike of school) across gender, age groups, and school types were explored. Results provided strong support for the multidimensionality of the AFS. The B-ESEM showed the best fit to the data as opposed to the other models. Also, measurement invariance across gender, age groups, and school types was fully supported. Girls and younger students generally reported higher levels of anxiety than boys and older students, while the latter stated more dislike of school than girls and younger students. Furthermore, elementary school students showed generally higher levels of anxiety than students of the other school types.
How Dark Personalities Perpetrate Partner and General Aggression in Sweden and the United Kingdom
Authors: Tetreault Christie , Bates Elizabeth A. , Bolam Lauren T.
Published: August 2018

Research has demonstrated, in Western nations, men and women are both perpetrators and victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). However, to the best of our knowledge, IPV and the Dark Tetrad (Machiavellianism, subclinical narcissism, subclinical psychopathy, and subclinical sadism) have not been included in this research fully. We investigated how these dark personalities influenced the perpetration of IPV in a cross-cultural study between Sweden and the United Kingdom through surveys with university students. We furthermore compared IPV perpetration with same-sex aggression of a non-romantic partner to explore sex- and aggression-specific effects. In a sample of 342 participants, our main findings were the following: (a) the only significant difference in IPV perpetration was women were more verbally aggressive; (b) men reported more verbal and physical same-sex aggression of a non-romantic partner; (c) men scored higher on all the Dark Tetrad personalities regardless of culture, while the Swedish sample scored significantly higher on subclinical narcissism and sadism; (d) the Dark Tetrad and aggression perpetration were significantly correlated; (e) different Dark Tetrad personalities predicted different forms of aggression perpetration with some gender differences; and (f) being high on subclinical psychopathy predicted most types of aggression regardless of target. Our study highlights that dark personalities engage in particular types of aggression, which helps to determine how and when distinctive personalities aggress for potential interventions.
Person- and Incident-Level Predictors of Blame, Disclosure, and Reporting to Authorities in Rape Scenarios
Authors: Seibold-Simpson Susan M. , McKinnon Allison M. , Mattson Richard E. , Ortiz Edwin , Merriwether Ann M. , Massey Sean G. , Chiu Ian
Published: August 2018

Rapes perpetrated during college are both common and underreported. Research highlights that several person- and incident-level factors relating to gender and sexuality may diminish reporting, by themselves and as they pertain to attributions of blame for the assault. In this study, male and female college students ( N = 916) read vignettes describing a rape perpetrated by a man against a woman, a man against a man, or a woman against a man. Participants rated the blameworthiness of both perpetrator and victim and rated the likelihood that they would disclose the rape to social ties or health services or report it to authorities if they were in the victim’s position. We found that male gender and heterosexual orientation predicted higher victim blame, lower perpetrator blame, and lower likelihood of disclosure, although relative endorsement of masculine gender ideology seemed to be driving these associations, as well as predicted lower likelihood of reporting to authorities. Controlling for other factors, vignettes portraying a woman raping a man led to a lower likelihood of disclosing or reporting the assault, compared with a male-on-female rape. We also found that the effects of female-on-male rape and traditional masculine ideologies tied to rape disclosure partially by decreasing blame to the perpetrator, which itself carried a unique influence on decisions to report. Our findings overall indicate that factors related to gender, sexuality, and blame have myriad influences and may contribute to low rates of disclosing rape to important outlets.
Intimate Partner Violence and Concern for Animal Care and Safekeeping: Experiences of Service Providers in Canada
Authors: Wuerch Melissa A. , Giesbrecht Crystal J. , Jeffrey Nicole , Knutson Tracy , Wach Frances
Published: August 2018

The present study examined the experiences of animal welfare and intimate partner violence service providers living in urban, rural, and northern communities in Saskatchewan, Canada. Two online surveys were distributed among animal welfare and intimate partner violence service providers across the province. Quantitative and qualitative information was obtained to further understand how concern for animal care and safekeeping impacts the decision to leave an abusive relationship. The questions asked in the online surveys were designed, reviewed, and revised based on feedback from a community-based project advisory team. Descriptive statistics and detailed comments highlighted important findings and suggestions for improvement. Findings suggest that concern for animal care and safekeeping creates challenges for individuals leaving abusive partners, especially those living in rural and northern communities, and further demonstrate the importance of collaboration between animal welfare and intimate partner violence service providers. Further research is warranted to inform and improve the development and implementation of national support services and resources.
The Path to Performance Rewards: Perceptions Among Federal Employees on the Promise of Performance Appraisal
Authors: Daley Dennis M.
Published: August 2018

Performance rewards are designed to incentivize individuals to obtain productivity. The performance appraisal process represents the organization’s efforts to introduce a formal plan alignment directing individual efforts. Performance appraisal techniques, for example, instrument, accountability, individual goals and priorities and training and development, should be perceived by federal employees as influencing the obtainment of organizational goals through extrinsic rewards. Using data from the 2013 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, regression analyses on perceptions of performance rewards are conducted with the performance appraisal process (appraisal fairness and accuracy, accountability for results, designated goals and priorities, feedback and training and development). The performance appraisal fairness and accuracy feedback and training demonstrate moderate effects.
Effects of molding on property of thermally conductive and electrically insulating polyamide 6–based composite
Authors: Yang Xuping , Yang Wenbin , Fan Jinghui , Wu Juying , Zhang Kai
Published: August 2018

Thermally conductive and electrically insulating polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix quaternary composites were prepared by hot press molding and injection molding, respectively. The quaternary composites were composed of zero-dimensional aluminum oxide particle, one-dimensional silicon carbide whisker, two-dimensional flake graphite, and PA6 resin matrix. Morphology, structure, density, thermal conductivity, volume electrical resistivity, and tensile strength of two types of composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometer, thermal conductivity tester, high resistance micro-current tester, and tensile tester. The results showed that crystallinity, thermal conductivity, density, and tensile strength of hot press molding samples were superior to those of samples made by injection molding method. This is due to that hot press molding method can provide higher molding pressure and longer annealing time than injection molding. The mechanism could be explained that the performances of the composites were promoted by increasing molding pressure and annealing time.
A Case Report of Cangrelor Bridge Therapy for a Diagnostic Bronchoscopy With Biopsy
Authors: Calnan Matthew W. , Crawford Alexis N.
Published: August 2018

Although premature discontinuation of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is associated with an increased risk of ischemic complications, patients may present with an urgent need for surgery that would require interruption of DAPT. Antiplatelet bridge therapy using cangrelor, an intravenous P2Y12 inhibitor, has been studied as a potential option to ensure continuation of DAPT perioperatively. However, limited evidence exists supporting the off-label use of cangrelor bridge therapy to noncardiac procedures. We describe the case of a 67-year-old class 3 obese female on DAPT (aspirin and ticagrelor) for recent drug-eluting stent placement who required a bronchoscopy with biopsy for suspected lung cancer. Cangrelor bridge therapy was utilized both preoperatively and postoperatively without ischemic or bleeding complications, and the patient was subsequently able to begin radiation therapy after a confirmed diagnosis of lung cancer.
Cohort Trends in the Gender Distribution of Household Tasks in the United States and the Implications for Understanding Disability
Authors: Sheehan Connor , Domingue Benjamin W. , Crimmins Eileen
Published: August 2018

Objectives: Measures of disability depend on health and social roles in a given environment. Yet, social roles can change over time as they have by gender. We document how engagement in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) is shifting by gender and birth cohort among older adults, and the challenges these shifts can create for population-level estimates of disability. Method: We used the Health and Retirement Study ( N = 25,047) and multinomial logistic regression models with an interaction term between gender and birth cohort to predict limitation and nonperformance relative to no difficulty conducting IADLs. Results: Nonperformance of IADLs have significantly decreased among younger cohorts. Women in younger cohorts were more likely to use a map, whereas men in younger cohorts were more likely to prepare meals and shop. Discussion: Failing to account for gender and cohort changes in IADL, performance may lead to systematic bias in estimates of population-level disability.
A finite-time-convergent composite guidance law with strong fault-tolerant performance
Authors: Chen Feng , He Guangjun , He Qifang
Published: August 2018

To improve the performance of tracking and intercepting the low-altitude target, a nonlinear integral sliding mode guidance law is designed firstly, which can guarantee that the line-of-sight angle converges to a desired tracking angle and the line-of-sight angular rate converges to zero in finite time. Meanwhile, to solve the chattering problem caused by the high gain coefficient of the sign function in the guidance law, a sliding mode disturbance observer is designed to estimate the maneuvering acceleration of the target. Moreover, a composite nonlinear integral sliding mode guidance law is designed by introducing the estimated value of the acceleration, which can weaken the chattering phenomenon effectively. Finally, considering the magnitude loss fault of the guidance command that may occur in the practical implementation, a composite guidance law with strong fault-tolerant performance is designed by introducing a fault compensation command, which can effectively improve the reliability of the system.
Improved criteria for stall-free preliminary design of axial compressor of aero gas turbine engines
Authors: Aligoodarz MR , Mehrpanahi A , Moshtaghzadeh M , Hashiehbaf A
Published: August 2018

A worldwide effort has been devoted to developing highly efficient and reliable gas turbine engines. There exist many prominent factors in the development of these engines. One of the most important features of the optimal design of axial flow compressors is satisfying the allowable range for various parameters such as flow coefficient, stage loading, the degree of reaction, De-Haller number, etc. But, there are some applicable cases that the mentioned criteria are exceeded. One of the most famous parameters is De-Haller number, which according to literature data should not be kept less than 0.72 in any stage of the axial compressor. A deep insight into the current small- or large-scale axial flow compressors shows that a discrepancy will occur among design criterion for De-Haller number and experimental measurements in which the De-Haller number is less than the design limit but no stall or surge is observed. In this paper, an improved formulation is derived based on one-dimensional modeling for predicting the stall-free design parameter ranges especially stage loading, flow coefficient, etc. for various combinations. It was found that the current criterion is much more accurate than the De-Haller criterion for design purposes.
Control of triple-shock configurations in high-speed flows over a cylindrically blunted plate in gases for different Mach numbers
Authors: Azarova OA , Gvozdeva LG
Published: August 2018

In this article, triple-shock configurations in the problem of the influence of an energy source on a supersonic flow past a plate blunted by a cylinder are studied. The changes of angles in triple-shock configurations depending on an external energy source for different gas mixtures have been investigated for freestream Mach numbers from 3 to 4.2. The dependences of angles in triple-type configurations on the characteristics of energy release have been presented. Complicated shock-vortex structures with multiple reflections of simple waves accompanying these configurations have been obtained. Generation of the Richtmyer–Meshkov instability has been established and mechanism for its generation has been suggested. Conclusion about the possibility of the control of unsteady triple-type shock configurations and accompanying slip streams with the use of an external energy source has been made.
Preexposure prophylaxis comprehension and the certainty of willingness to use preexposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men in China
Authors: Zheng Zhi-Wei , Qiu Jia-Ling , Gu Jing , Xu Hui-Fang , Cheng Wei-Bin , Hao Chun
Published: August 2018

Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is not available in China and the willingness to use PrEP among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) is not clear. The aim of this study was to better understand the association between PrEP comprehension and the willingness to use PrEP under varying conditions among MSM. An online survey investigating personal characteristics, PrEP comprehension, and PrEP willingness among MSM was conducted. A third of respondents (36.2%, 196 out of 541) reported that they would like to use PrEP. Compared with MSM with a basic level of PrEP comprehension, MSM with a high level were more likely to report clear choices: a willingness or unwillingness to use PrEP (82.4% versus 65.7%, p <0.01). Among 350 MSM willing to use PrEP or uncertain about uptake, those with a high level of PrEP comprehension were more likely to use PrEP daily (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.71, 95% confidence interval 1.04–2.80), and to use PrEP with mild or other side effects (AOR = 2.72 or 2.77). A high level of PrEP comprehension is a key factor in urging MSM to use PrEP under varying conditions. Our findings call attention to the need for health education to improve PrEP comprehension.
One hundred tweets from library land: A case study of RMIT University Library (academic library) and State Library of Victoria (public state library) in Australia
Authors: Alsuhaibani Reham Ali
Published: August 2018

Twitter is used by different library types to communicate and engage with their community. This case study focuses on content choices in tweets and the level of engagement generated, in the context of two different types of library. The current study attempts to examine the contents of Library Twitter account of two libraries (academic and public) with the aim of evaluating in a comparative mode, their themes and levels of user engagement. This research used a mixed method research approach. For quantitative approach, this study analyzed 100 Tweets from each library, i.e. RMIT University Library and State Library of Victoria. Also, the study analyzed a number of tweets and levels of engagement by recording numbers of likes, replies and retweets. The qualitative aspect analyzed each Tweet to determine engagement level and type of content shared by each library. The results demonstrate that the public and academic libraries publish different types of content. The varied nature, audience and mandate of each library appear to influence the focus of their tweets. Also, the results show that the level of engagement is a factor of the numbers of tweets in any theme. The limitation of this study is the data set contained only 100 tweets for each library. Moreover, the number of users and registered library accounts had probably increased since the study was conducted.
Developing scales for identifying and classifying library and information science skills and competencies: An Israeli perspective
Authors: Bronstein Jenny , Nebenzahl Ora
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study is to present the development of a skills and competencies scale for LIS professionals. Scales for the identification and classification of the skills and competencies needed to work in the library and information science profession can contribute to the development of academic and professional programs. This empirical survey was conducted in Israel among members of two library and information science listservs. The final sample included 183 valid questionnaires. The study tested the viability of a typology comprised of 46 skills and competencies as items in multi-items scales. Factor analysis and Cronbach’s Alpha were utilized in performing the analysis that resulted in four clusters: technology skills, information skills, personal competencies and traditional librarianship skills and show that 25 out of 46 original skills contribute to the explanation of 44% of the total variance. The study contributes to the literature on the subject by proposing updated scales that examine practitioners’ views and opinions of which skills and competencies they needed in information work. The typology that resulted from the study ascertains that, regardless of the rapid changes that the profession has confronted in the last decades, the skills that have been at the core of the profession are still relevant alongside technological skills related to online environments such as website development and management.
Effect of waxy material and measurement position of a sugarcane stalk on the rapid determination of Pol value using a portable near infrared instrument
Authors: Maraphum Kanvisit , Chuan-Udom Somchai , Saengprachatanarug Khwantri , Wongpichet Seree , Posom Jetsada , Phuphaphud Arthit , Taira Eizo
Published: August 2018

Near infrared spectroscopy can be applied as a rapid and non-destructive method for monitoring sugarcane quality after determining the precision and accuracy of the approach and model to be used for evaluating stems. In this study, near infrared spectroscopy has been applied to breeding management systems and commercial sugar production. Near infrared spectra were collected using a portable near infrared instrument incorporating a wavelength region of 730–1000 nm. To achieve an effective sampling technique, the investigated cane samples included stems with original cane surface and stems with cane wax removed surface. Results revealed that calibrations based on spectra recorded at only 1-position (1-position spectra) of original samples were poor, while calibrations based on stems with wax removed were acceptable for screening with RMSEP values of 1.2%Pol. Also, the 2-position averaged spectra of non-removed wax samples provided fair models, while 4- and 8-position averaged spectra gave good results with R2 of 0.78–0.82, r2 of 0.78–0.82, RMSEP of 1.2%Pol to 1.4%Pol and RPD of 2.1 to 2.4, respectively. The calibration model developed from removed-wax samples at positions 1-, 2-, 4- and 8-averaged spectra rendered effective performances with R2 of 0.73–0.82, r2 of 0.73–0.84, RMSEP of 1.2%Pol to 1.5%Pol and RPD of 2.1 to 2.5. Outcomes were not different in performance, even if the scanned positions and number of scans differed. Hence, the author concluded that 1-position spectra with removed-wax samples were convenient and suitable for the measurement of cane stalk Pol value.
Enhancing near infrared spectroscopy models to identify omega-3 fish oils used in the nutraceutical industry by means of calibration range extension
Authors: van der Merwe Sanette , Manley Marena , Wicht Merrill
Published: August 2018

The high demand for omega-3 fish oil nutraceuticals (dietary supplements) is due to the numerous health benefits contributed by the polyunsaturated fatty acids. The nutraceutical industry is required to follow good manufacturing practice standards in order to ensure label claims and prevent adulteration. It is vital that the quality control procedures will be able to detect adulterated products. It is thus necessary to ensure that the analytical techniques are adequate by using validated methods. The qualification or identification of natural fish oils is a difficult task due to overlapping concentration ranges of polyunsaturated fatty acids and other similar properties. Gas chromatography is the prescribed technique in the nutraceutical industry for analysis of omega-3 fatty acids, but it is time-consuming and costly. Near infrared spectroscopy is a rapid and cost-effective technique which can replace the prescribed method if it is proven to be equivalent, through validation, to the criteria as prescribed by the pharmacopoeias and other industry guidelines. In this study, near infrared spectroscopy in combination with chemometrics was considered as an alternative method to gas chromatography to identify various commercial fish oils and to quantify the polyunsaturated fatty acids. Identification methods were developed for nine commercial omega-3 fish oils by using spectral libraries. Quantitative near infrared methods were developed for arachidonic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in fish oils expressed as mg.g−1 as well as % area using partial least squares regression and independent validation by superimposing datasets with mutual properties. Based on the statistics in terms of standard error of calibration, R2, standard error of prediction and r of the polyunsaturated fatty acid models, the near infrared method was equivalent to the prescribed gas chromatography methods, and precision results obtained were also within the prescribed criteria. Near infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics can be used for conclusive identification and quantification of omega-3 fish oils, thereby minimizing the risk of adulteration. The method also complied with the prescribed pharmaceutical method validation criteria, and therefore was proven as an alternative method to gas chromatography for the nutraceutical industry.
The capabilities and human rights of high performance athletes
Authors: Adams Andrew , Kavanagh Emma
Published: August 2018

High performance athletes participate and function in sports systems where exploitative behaviours may become manifest. These behaviours potentially violate an individual athlete’s human rights. Using the Capability Approach first outlined by Amartya Sen the paper details how a more precise analysis of human rights, in the context of high performance sport, may be achieved. Using in-depth narrative accounts from high performance athletes, data illustrate how athlete maltreatment is related to individual capabilities and functionings: the loss of individual freedoms infringes accepted notions of human rights. The implications for practice concern how human rights may be protected within and for systems of high performance production.
Bringing It All Back Home: Corporate Venturing and Renewal Through Spin-ins
Authors: Hunt Richard A. , Townsend David M. , Asgari Elham , Lerner Daniel A.
Published: August 2018

More often than not, corporate acquisitions are expensive and difficult, especially those transacted for the purpose of advancing the aims of corporate entrepreneurship (CE). Motivated by frequent, high-cost failures, firms are experimenting with novel organizational structures and fresh approaches to acquisition-driven CE. In this study, we examine the effectiveness of corporate spin-ins—acquisitions in which the acquired company is founded by former employees of the acquiring firm—in resolving key challenges of CE-motivated acquisitions Using a matched pairwise dataset of spin-in and non-spin-in acquisitions, we discover that spin-ins generate superior outcomes, positioning them as a high-potential facet of CE portfolios.
Three Voices Papers for This Special Issue of New Solutions—Environmental Justice in the U.S. Gulf Coast Region
Authors: Sullivan John
Published: August 2018

The U.S. states along the northern shores of the Gulf of Mexico have often been described as America’s Energy Colony. This region is festooned with polluting industries, storage and waste disposal sites for toxic products, and a history of generally lax approaches to environmental public health and enforcement of regulations. This issue of New Solutions includes three interviews of groups and individuals who work for environmental justice in the Gulf Coast region. The interviewees provide key insights into the diverse cultural texture and social fabric of the Gulf. Their range of gulf locales and population groups embody different styles of engagement and different relationships to organizing, disseminating health and environmental risk information, and advocating for social and environmental justice. Three additional interviews will appear in the next issue of New Solutions.
A Theoretical Approach to Female Team Leaders’ Boundary Work Choices
Authors: Marrone Jennifer A. , Ferraro Holly Slay , Huston Therese
Published: August 2018

As organizations face progressively complex challenges, team leader boundary work that is relational and inclusive (i.e., work that relates to others across team boundaries and includes a wide variety of stakeholder perspectives and concerns) is more and more valued. These trends pose advantages and disadvantages for women team leaders. Although the desired leadership competencies align well with the communal qualities often attributed to and expected of women leaders, displaying boundary work behaviors that are relational and inclusive may paradoxically result in a questioning of women’s leadership competence by team members and parties external to the team. Moreover, concerns about gender stereotyping and discrimination may pressure women to adapt their boundary work behaviors to downplay or negate “femininity” as they lead. Reflective of these dilemmas, we propose that female team leaders experience conflicting internal motivations about the boundary work behaviors they display. Drawing from social role, impression management, and social identity perspectives, we examine the motives that drive women leaders to engage in or avoid boundary work that aligns with female gender roles, the contextual influences affecting the likelihood women leaders will act on these motives, and the implications of this boundary work for teams and female team leaders.
Human Rights Violations and Post-election Protest
Authors: Bell Sam R. , Chernykh Svitlana
Published: August 2018

How do human rights violations affect post-election protest? Until recently, post-election protests have been explained primarily by election-related factors such as the level of manipulation and the quality of electoral institutions. We argue that there are three dimensions along which human rights violations influence post-election protest: (1) the physical cost to protesters, (2) the ability to connect the violation to an election outcome, and (3) the ability to connect the repressive action to the government. Using this framework, we identify political imprisonment as the physical integrity right violation most likely to increase the probability of post-election protest. We test our hypotheses empirically with data on all national-level elections in the world between 1982 and 2012. We find that political imprisonment, a violation easily connected to government action and election outcomes, and less costly physically than other physical integrity rights violations, increases the probability of post-election protest.