bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced oil recovery efficiency of low-salinity water flooding in oil reservoirs including Fe2+ ions
Authors: Lee Yeonkyeong , Park Hyemin , Lee Jeonghwan , Sung Wonmo
Published: September 2018

The low-salinity waterflooding is an attractive eco-friendly producing method, recently, for carbonate reservoirs. When ferrous ion is present in the formation water, that is, acidic water, the injection of low-salinity water generally with neutral pH can yield precipitation or dissolution of Fe-minerals by pH mixing effect. FeSO4 and pyrite can be precipitated and re-dissolved, or vice versa, while siderite and Fe(OH)2 are insoluble which are precipitated, causing permeability reduction. Particularly, pyrite chemically reacts with low-salinity water and release sulfate ion, altering the wettability, favorably, to water-wet. In this aspect, we analyzed oil production focusing on dissolution of Fe-minerals and Fe-precipitation using a commercial compositional reservoir simulator. From the simulation results, the quantities of precipitation and dissolution were enormously large regardless of the type of Fe-minerals and there was almost no difference in terms of total volume in this system. However, among Fe-minerals, Fe(OH)2 precipitation and pyrite dissolution were noticeably large compared to troilite, FeSO4, and siderite. Therefore, it is essential to analyze precipitation or dissolution for each Fe-mineral, individually. Meanwhile, in dissolving process of pyrite, sulfate ions were released differently depending on the content of pyrite. Here, the magnitude of the generated sulfate ion was limited at certain level of pyrite content. Thus, it is necessary to pay attention for determining the concentration of sulfate ion in designing the composition of injection water. Ultimately, in the investigation of the efficiency of oil production, it was found that the oil production was enhanced due to an additional sulfate ion generated from FeS2 dissolution.
A cut-off criterion for calculating more reliable adsorption energy distributions from gas adsorption isotherms
Authors: von Wedelstedt A , Arnrich S , Haehnel T , Kalies G
Published: September 2018

Adsorption energy distributions from experimental gas adsorption isotherms are capable to characterize the energetic heterogeneity of a solid surface. Unfortunately, they can only be computed by the adsorption integral equation, which represents an ill-posed problem, i.e., the solution is highly sensitive to errors in the input data. Ill-posed problems are usually solved by means of regularization, but general regularization schemata do not provide useful criteria to estimate the approximation quality. In this paper, a former presented solution strategy tailor-made for the Langmuir kernel of the adsorption integral equation is extended to Fourier transform. This yields a simple and effective cut-off criterion for the Fourier cosine transform of the adsorption energy distribution. The cut-off criterion is applied to calculate adsorption energy distributions from synthetic and experimental adsorption isotherms.
Influence of propofol on the electroencephalogram default mode network in patients of advanced age
Authors: Ke Jing-Dong , Xu Min , Wang Pei-Pei , Wang Min , Tian Ming , Chen Andrew C.N.
Published: September 2018

Objective

This study was performed to evaluate the effects of propofol on the electroencephalogram (EEG) default mode network (DMN) in patients of advanced age.

Methods

Fifteen men aged >60 years (mean, 70 years) were selected. Propofol target-controlled infusion was performed under EEG bispectral index monitoring. The propofol target effect-site concentration, blood pressure, heart rate, and distributions and powers of the EEG spectrum were recorded in an awake state and under anesthesia. The EEG included seven bands: delta (0.5–3.5 Hz), theta (4.0–7.0 Hz), alpha-1 (7.5–9.5 Hz), alpha-2 (10–12 Hz), beta-1 (13–23 Hz), beta-2 (24–34 Hz), and gamma (35–45 Hz).

Results

From an awake state to anesthesia, the brain topographic map showed that the energies of delta, theta, alpha-1, alpha-2, and beta-1 were concentrated in the frontoparietal site, and the power increased significantly. The energy distribution of beta-2 was significantly decreased and the power significantly reduced. The energy distribution of gamma in the temporal lobe was also markedly decreased and the power significantly reduced.

Conclusions

This study revealed the changes in the spatial distribution and regional energy of the EEG DMD in men of advanced age from the awake state to the anesthetized state.
Zygomatic Arch Parosteal Osteosarcoma in Dogs and a Cat
Authors: Gold Randi , Oliveira Fabiano , Pool Roy
Published: September 2018

Parosteal osteosarcoma is a rare, slow-growing tumor most commonly arising from the surface of long bones. Tissue or histological sections from 5 dogs and 1 cat with zygomatic arch masses were examined. Clinical presentations varied from chronic sneezing to facial swelling. Imaging consistently demonstrated osseous proliferation in the area of the zygomatic arch. Histologically, the masses were characterized by well-differentiated fibro-osseous and chondroid components that radiated outward from the periosteum of the zygomatic bone. Cellular atypia and mitotic figures were uncommon. Parosteal osteosarcomas have previously been reported in the skulls of dogs and cats, but only 1 has been reported on the zygomatic arch. Initially, these tumors are of low histologic low grade, but with time, they can show more aggressive behavior and invade the underlying bone.
Grading Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors in Cats
Authors: Sabattini Silvia , Bettini Giuliano
Published: September 2018

Cutaneous mast cell tumors (cMCTs) account for approximately 20% of skin neoplasms in cats. As there is no grading system for these tumors, prognosis is difficult to estimate. Although the typical presentation is a benign tumor that can be cured by surgical excision, a small but important proportion of feline cMCTs is biologically aggressive and can spread to local lymph nodes, precede the onset of disseminated cutaneous disease, or be associated with visceral involvement. A number of macroscopic and histologic features were retrospectively evaluated in cases of feline cMCTs treated with surgical excision with or without medical therapy. Cats were divided into 2 groups based on the clinical outcome. Group 1 included cats alive with no mast cell tumor–related disease at 1000 days from surgery; group 2 included cats developing histologically confirmed metastatic or cutaneous disseminated disease. The criteria allowing the best differentiation between the groups were used to develop a grading scheme. Groups 1 and 2 were composed by 48 (76%) and 15 (24%) cases, respectively. Tumors were classified as high grade if there were >5 mitotic figures in 10 fields (400×) and at least 2 of the following criteria: tumor diameter >1.5 cm, irregular nuclear shape, and nucleolar prominence/chromatin clusters. According to this scheme, the 15 (24%) high-grade cMCTs had significantly reduced survival time (median, 349 days; 95% CI, 0–739 days) as compared with the 48 low-grade tumors (median not reached; P < .001). Further studies are warranted to validate this grading system and test reproducibility on a larger case series.
What makes music relaxing? An investigation into musical elements
Authors: Hernandez-Ruiz Eugenia , James Bianca , Noll Jordan , Chrysikou Evangelia G.
Published: September 2018

Research on specific qualities of music used for relaxation has shown conflicting results. The use of different familiar or pre-composed pieces, with many simultaneous changes, might limit the ability to discriminate which musical element is responsible for the relaxation response. To address the latter, we examined the relaxing effects of music on three psychophysiological measures (heart rate, respiration rate, and skin conductance) with one original piece of music, and three modified versions (altering one musical element in each version). We investigated whether participants’ psychophysiological responses reflected a more “relaxed” state (lower heart rate, respiration rate, and skin conductance) with slower tempo (45 bpm), mellow timbre (bass clarinet), or smaller amplitude (-10 dB). We also investigated whether psychophysiological responses were consistent with self-report scores. Visual inspection of psychophysiological data indicated two distinct responder profiles, and a logistic regression confirmed this distinction. Using mixed ANCOVAs, we found significant differences between participants (responders and non-responders) in skin conductance level. No correlations between psychophysiological measures and self-reports were found. These findings raise interesting questions regarding the mechanisms behind the relaxing effects of music.
Melatonin Administration Methods for Research in Mammals and Birds
Authors: Ovid Dax , Hayes Tyrone B. , Bentley George E.
Published: September 2018

Endocrine research in animals often entails exogenous hormone administration. Special issues arise when developing administration protocols for hormones with circadian and seasonal periodicity. This article reviews various methods for the exogenous administration of hormones with such periodicities by focusing on melatonin. We discuss that methodological variations across studies can affect experimental results. Melatonin administration techniques used in vertebrates includes infusion pumps, beeswax pellets, oral administration, injections, SILASTIC capsules, osmotic pumps, transdermal delivery, beads, and sponges.
Prediction for the mechanical property of short fiber-reinforced polymer composites through process modeling method
Authors: Mu Yue , Chen Anbiao , Zhao Guoqun , Cui Yujia , Feng Jiejie , Ren Foufei
Published: September 2018

The fiber-reinforced polymer composites are important alternative for conventional structural materials because of their excellent comprehensive performance and weight reduction. The mechanical properties of such composite materials are mainly determined by the fiber orientation induced through practical manufacturing process. In the study, a through process modeling (TPM) method coupling the microstructure evolution and the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composites in practical processing is presented. The numerical methodology based on the finite volume method is performed to investigate three-dimensional forming process in the injection molding of fiber-reinforced composites. The evolution of fiber orientation distribution is successfully predicted by using a reduced strain closure model. The corresponding finite volume model for TPM is detailedly derived and the pressure implicit with splitting of operators (PISO) algorithm is employed to improve computational stability. The flow-induced multilayer structure is successfully predicted according to essential flow characteristics and the fiber orientation distribution. The mechanical properties of such anisotropy composites is further calculated based on the stiffness analysis and the Tandon–Weng model. The improvement of mechanical properties in each direction of the injection molded product are evaluated by using the established mathematical model and numerical algorithm. The influences of the geometric structure of injection mold cavity, the fiber volume fractions, and the fiber aspect ratios on the mechanical properties of composite products are further discussed. The mathematical model and numerical method proposed in the study can be successfully adopted to investigate the structural response of composites in practical manufacturing process that will be helpful for optimum processing design.
Gendered Motivations to Pursue Male-Dominated STEM Careers Among Spanish Young People: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sáinz Milagros , Fàbregues Sergi , Rodó-de-Zárate Maria , Martínez-Cantos José-Luis , Arroyo Lidia , Romano María-José
Published: September 2018

The present study examined gender differences in the motivations leading young people to pursue highly male-dominated Science, Technology and Mathematics (STEM) degrees and careers. Seventeen young people, either enrolled in university studies or working in the private STEM sector, were interviewed. Drawing on the factors influencing teaching–choice theory, the results suggest certain similarities and differences between male and female participants. Male participants’ intrinsic values associated the decision to follow STEM studies with specific objects that had attracted them since childhood, while women’s interests revolved around the techniques and processes associated with their specific STEM field. Whereas women emphasized the extent to which their career decisions were based on teachers’ encouragement, men emphasized the role of family tradition and mass media. Social utility values associated with the STEM field were important for women, whereas men stressed attainment of personal values. There were no gender differences in the task return–related values associated with choosing an STEM career.
Individuality, subjectivation, and their civic significance in contemporary China: The cultivation of an ethical self in a cultural community
Authors: Yi Lin
Published: September 2018

Drawing upon ethnographic data collected from fieldwork among a reading-based community in a coastal city over 10 years, and Michel Foucault’s notion of the cultivation of an ethical self, the primary aim of this study is to examine three issues: (1) how do middle-class citizens articulate and practise the cultural activities that they advocate?; (2) are their practices simultaneously individualized and totalized in the way that Foucault demonstrates?; and (3) do these internally oriented practices have civic significance?
Native Language Promotes Access to Visual Consciousness
Authors: Maier Martin , Abdel Rahman Rasha
Published: September 2018

Can our native language influence what we consciously perceive? Although evidence that language modulates visual discrimination has been accumulating, little is known about the relation between language structure and consciousness. We employed electroencephalography and the attentional-blink paradigm, in which targets are often unnoticed. Native Greek speakers ( N = 28), who distinguish categorically between light and dark shades of blue, showed boosted perception for this contrast compared with a verbally unmarked green contrast. Electrophysiological signatures of early visual processing predicted this behavioral advantage. German speakers ( N = 29), who have only one category for light and dark shades of blue, showed no differences in perception between blue and green targets. The behavioral consequence of categorical perception was replicated with Russian speakers ( N = 46), reproducing this novel finding. We conclude that linguistic enhancement of color contrasts provides targets with a head start in accessing visual consciousness. Our native language is thus one of the forces that determine what we consciously perceive.
Clinical predictors of active LN development in children – evidence from the UK JSLE Cohort Study
Authors: Smith E M D , Yin P , Jorgensen A L , Beresford M W
Published: September 2018

Background

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) patients may develop lupus nephritis (LN) during their initial presentation, or later in their disease. This study aimed to assess whether clinical/demographic factors characterize patients with LN within the United Kingdom JSLE Cohort Study, and whether such factors predict subsequent LN development.

Methods

Univariate logistic regression modelling compared clinical/demographic factors in patients with and without LN at baseline. For those who subsequently developed LN, Cox proportional-hazard modelling was used to test the association between such factors and time to LN development. Covariates with p < 0.2 univariately were included within a multiple-regression model.

Results

A total of 121/331 (37%) patients presented with active LN at baseline, with first American College of Rheumatology (ACR) score ( p < 2.0 × 10–16), severe hypertension ( p = 0.0006), proteinuria ( p < 2.0 × 10–16), creatinine ( p = 1.0 × 10–16), erythrocyte sedimentation rate ( p = 1.0 × 10–16), neutrophils ( p < 2.0 × 10–16), complement 3 (C3) ( p = 4.0 × 10–16) and ethnicity ( p = 3.0 × 10–13) differing between those with and without LN. Of the 210 individuals without active LN at baseline, 13 patients had a single visit and were excluded from further analysis. Thirty-four of 197 (17%) developed LN after a median of 2.04 years (interquartile range, 0.8–3.7), with higher ACR scores ( p = 0.014 , hazard ratio (HR) = 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–1.95) and lower C3 levels ( p = 0.0082 , HR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.10–0.68) demonstrated as predictors of subsequent LN.

Conclusions

Clinical and demographic factors can help to characterize patients at increased risk of LN.
Exploring the Influence of Celebrity Credibility on Brand Attitude, Advertisement Attitude and Purchase Intention
Authors: Singh Ramendra Pratap , Banerjee Neelotpaul
Published: September 2018

The celebrity credibility scale developed by Singh and Banerjee [Singh, R. P., & Banerjee, N. (2018). A study on exploring the factors influencing celebrity endorsement credibility. Global Business Review, 19(2), 494–509.] which is validated in the Indian context with the addition of some items based on Indian culture and psychometric properties is further tested. The scale items are earlier tested in general terms without any reference to a celebrity. For this study, four major two-wheeler brands in India, which are endorsed by celebrities, are considered. The present study consists of 380 participants. This study tries to explore the influence of celebrity credibility on consumers’ brand attitude and advertisement attitude. Subsequently, the influence of brand attitude and advertisement attitude on consumers’ purchase intention is studied. The study reveals celebrity credibility has a significant influence on consumers’ attitude towards the brand and advertisement, also in the case of purchase intention; both brand attitude and advertisement attitude built on celebrity credibility has positive significant influence. The present study supports the celebrity credibility scale items of Singh and Banerjee (2018). The overall effect of celebrity credibility is positively significant with other constructs; this proves that the scale items are robust and relevant in clarifying celebrity credibility properly.
Understanding the Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction of Mobile Banking in Bangladesh: Using a Structural Equation Model
Authors: Khan Abdul Gaffar , Lima Reshma Pervin , Mahmud Md Shahed
Published: September 2018

This article aims to understand the association between service quality and customer satisfaction to use mobile banking through structural equation model, because, Bangladesh is one of the fastest increasing mobile banking service providers in the world. A structured survey questionnaire was prepared to collect data from participants in Bangladesh. A convenience sampling method was used to select potential participants in this study. Out of the distributed questionnaires, 240, completed and usable, were selected for the analysis which employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results showed that there are positive and significant effects of all constructs of service quality, namely, tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy on customer satisfaction for using mobile banking. Particularly, the responsiveness has a strong impact ( β = 0.3165) on customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the tangibility has identified as less significant factor ( β = 0.0770) on customer satisfaction. Findings also indicate that mobile banking service providers should concentrate on all dimensions of service quality, with special focus on responsiveness and reliability for improving their customer satisfaction. This study has several implications for researchers, banking authority, policymakers and financial agencies when rendering services to end users and customers of mobile banking. Furthermore, this implication also helps banks to understand and develop strategies as well as policies to improve the services of mobile banking of Bangladesh.
Development of accounting in Fiji, 1801–2016
Authors: Sharma Umesh , Samkin Grant
Published: September 2018

This article reviews the development of accounting in Fiji. Although this article mentions the pre-European contact period (before 1800), four key phases during which accounting developments occurred are examined. These are the pre-colonial period (1801–1873), the colonial period (1874–1970), Fiji as a Sovereign State under the 1970 Constitution (1971–1986) and the Fijian Sovereign State following the 1987 coups (1987–2016). In each of these periods, a number of major accounting developments that occurred in the country are reviewed and the players responsible for the developments are identified. Directions for future accounting history research are suggested.
Women opting in?: New perspectives on the Kaleidoscope Career Model
Authors: Elley-Brown Margie J , Pringle Judith K , Harris Candice
Published: September 2018

This paper reports on findings of an interpretive study, which used the Kaleidoscope Career Model as lens through which to view the careers of professional women in education. The study used hermeneutic phenomenology, a methodology novel in management and career management to gain a subjective perspective on women’s career experience and what career means to them at different career stages. Findings indicated that women did not “opt-out,” or adopt a clear-cut gender beta career pattern. Rather, they mirrored an alpha pattern with challenge continuing into mid-career. The three Kaleidoscope Career Model parameters operated in an ongoing way in women’s lives, and authenticity was a powerful theme throughout their careers. However, women in late career tended to “lean back”; their desire for authenticity became subjugated by their need for balance. These findings add to extant Kaleidoscope Career Model research and reveal factors, which contribute to women’s ability to “opt-in” rather than out of their careers.
Managing uncertainty in the career development of emerging adults: Implications for undergraduate students
Authors: Kwok Cherrie Y. N.
Published: September 2018

As an increasing number of emerging adults enter university as undergraduate students, and the relationship between higher education and the graduate employment market becomes ever more interconnected, it is critical to examine how this population can navigate their career development effectively in today's ever-changing world. This paper draws attention to the influence of uncertainty on the career development of emerging adults as undergraduate students. Three critical challenges that are related to uncertainty are examined, including: (a) ambiguity in the external environment; (b) inadequate management of uncertainty due to executive function deficits; and (c) mental health implications – specifically, anxiety—that arise from uncertainty. Then, I address these challenges with three postmodern career development approaches and their related interventions, including the Chaos Theory of Careers, the narrative approach, and the spiritual approach.
Professional staff in universities: Career needs, values, attitudes and behaviours
Authors: Gander Michelle
Published: September 2018

This article outlines a concurrent complementarity, mixed methods research design to explore the careers of university professional staff through the application of a contemporary career profile framework. Two hundred and twenty-six participants from Australia and the UK completed a multi-method questionnaire. Integration occurred at three points: the conceptualisation stage using a multi-method instrument; the experiential stage where the quantitative data results acted as a priori themes for the theoretical thematic analysis; and the inferential stage where both convergent and divergent triangulation of the results took place to provide a broader and deeper understanding of the phenomenon under study. This methodological design aims to demonstrate the usefulness of mixed methods in carrying out careers research. The findings extend the career profile theory by highlighting individual needs, related behaviours and outcomes and by suggesting that there are various psychological mechanisms acting to drive career behaviours.
Phenomenological modeling of the thermo-magneto-mechanical behavior of magnetic shape memory alloys
Authors: de Souza Vandré F , Savi Marcelo A , Silva Monteiro Luciana L , Paiva Alberto
Published: September 2018

Magnetic shape memory alloy is an interesting class of material that offers fast and contactless actuation associated with large deformation. This article deals with a novel constitutive model based on internal variables that describes the phenomenological behavior of magnetic shape memory alloys. Model formulation is developed within the framework of continuum mechanics and thermodynamics defining a mixture free energy potential based on four macroscopic phases. Zeeman effect is considered to incorporate the magnetic behavior. A numerical procedure is proposed to deal with the model nonlinearities. Model predictions are presented for different thermo-magneto-mechanical loadings treating reorientation and phase transformations. Numerical simulations are carried out showing the model capabilities and comparisons with experimental data available in the literature attesting its ability to capture the general thermo-magneto-mechanical behavior of magnetic shape memory alloys.
Five-Fold Variation Among Surgeons and Hospitals in the Use of Secondary Palate Surgery
Authors: Sitzman Thomas J. , Carle Adam C. , Heaton Pamela C. , Helmrath Michael A. , Britto Maria T.
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To identify child-, surgeon- and hospital-specific factors at the time of primary cleft palate repair that are associated with the use of secondary palate surgery.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Forty-nine pediatric hospitals.

Participants:

Children who underwent cleft palate repair between 1998 and 2015.

Main Outcome Measure:

Time from primary cleft palate repair to secondary palate surgery.

Results:

By 5 years after the primary palate repair, 27.5% of children had undergone secondary palate surgery. In multivariable analysis, cleft type and age at primary palate repair were both associated with secondary surgery ( P < .01). Children with unilateral cleft lip and palate had a 1.69-fold increased hazard of secondary surgery (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54-1.85) compared to children with cleft palate alone. Primary palate repair before 9 months had a 3.99-fold increased hazard of secondary surgery (95% CI: 3.39-4.07) compared to repair at 16 to 24 months of age. After adjusting for cleft type, age at repair, and procedure volume, there remained substantial variation in secondary surgery use among surgeons and hospitals ( P < .01). For children with isolated cleft palate, the predicted proportion of children undergoing secondary surgery within 5 years of primary repair ranged from 8.5% to 46.0% across surgeons and 9.1% to 49.4% across hospitals.

Conclusions:

There are substantial differences among surgeons and hospitals in the rates of secondary palate surgery. Further work is needed to identify causes for this variation among providers and develop interventions to reduce the need for secondary surgery.
A Comparative Analysis of Academic and Nonacademic Hospitals on Outcome Measures and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Chen Alissa S. , Revere Lee , Ratanatawan Alissa , Beck Christopher L. , Allo Julio A.
Published: September 2018

Academic hospitals contribute to health care through patient care, research, and teaching; however, their outcomes may not be equivalent to nonacademic hospitals. Multivariate analysis of variance is used to compare publicly reported data on patient satisfaction, readmission rates, mortality rates, and hospital-acquired injury scores between 1906 academic and nonacademic hospitals, while controlling for hospital-level covariates. Results show that academic hospitals have higher levels of patient satisfaction on 7 of the 11 measures and are equivalent to nonacademic hospitals on the remaining 4 measures. Academic hospitals have lower pneumonia mortality rates than nonacademic hospitals, with no difference for other mortality or disease-specific readmissions. However, academic hospitals have a slightly higher overall readmission rate. Infection rates were equivalent between academic and nonacademic hospitals for central line-associated bloodstream infections, pressure ulcers, and wound dehiscence for abdominal and pelvic injuries, but academic hospitals have higher catheter-associated urinary tract infection rates.
Comparison of the characteristics of aerostatic journal bearings considering misalignment under pure-static and hybrid condition
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Yu Fengning , Zou Donglin , Ta Na , Rao Zhushi
Published: September 2018

In this paper, the steady-state characteristics, including film pressure, load capacity, stiffness, misalignment moment of aerostatic bearings considering two types of misalignment (along vertical direction [Formula: see text] and along horizontal direction [Formula: see text]) are studied under pure-static and hybrid condition. The journal misalignment effects on the steady-state characteristics under pure-static condition and hybrid condition are studied comparatively. The results show that the load capacity and stiffness increase with the increase in the degree of journal misalignment under hybrid condition, while they decrease with the increase in the degree of journal misalignment under pure-static condition. Moreover, the journal misalignment along two perpendicular direction effects on the performances of aerostatic bearings are also investigated comparatively and the performances of bearing are found to be more sensitive to the misalignment along horizontal direction.
A therapeutic group for young people with diverse gender identifications
Authors: Davidson Sarah , Morrison Annabelle , Skagerberg Elin , Russell Ian , Hames Anna
Published: September 2018

Young people are presenting to specialist gender services in higher numbers than before and many with significant psychosocial difficulties. Negative experiences of stigma, difficult peer relationships and discrimination exacerbate distress and psychological difficulties, negatively impacting wellbeing and resilience. Social support is advocated as a means of supporting young people with diverse gender identifications, such as through peer support groups. This article describes the establishment of a young persons’ group in 2011 within the United Kingdom’s Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS), for those attending the service as a means of enabling their coping with difficult experiences and facilitating their wellbeing and resilience through effective social support. The group was evaluated using qualitative and quantitative measures and has subsequently run each year. Now in its sixth year, the authors reflect on their learning and experiences.
Housing Inequality: The Need for a Shift in Public Policy Intervention
Authors: Filandri Marianna , Semi Giovanni
Published: September 2018

On the night of 14 June 2017, a 24-storey skyscraper in North Kensington, London, caught fire, leaving 71 people dead and hundreds homeless. Grenfell Tower was a public housing block, built in the early 1970s in Brutalist style, which underwent a controversial refurbishment in 2016. This tragedy in one of the richest areas of one of the richest cities on earth points to a contemporary paradox: the need for more affordable housing is far from being behind us and, indeed, is returning to the fore as a social problem.

Our starting point is that housing policies in most European societies have gradually reduced their scope and, breaking with the post-war tradition of cross-class mass housing, are now limited to supporting the more vulnerable households. One of the many effects of this public policy transformation is that public intervention is now conceived as marginal, leaving the market as the main vehicle for service provision (housing, in this case). A second effect can be seen in public facility maintenance: cost cutting has trumped improvements.

The Grenfell Tower fire draws attention to several aspects. Here, we will focus on three: the rise of a homeowners’ society, the link between social inequalities and housing, and the financialization of housing. The article suggests the need for a radical shift in housing policies, tackling the nexus between inequality reproduction, extraction mechanisms, and living conditions.
Sensory hypersensitivity predicts repetitive behaviours in autistic and typically-developing children
Authors: Schulz Samantha E , Stevenson Ryan A
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between sensory hypersensitivity and restricted interests and repetitive behaviours associated with autism spectrum disorder and their typically-developing peers. Furthermore, the aims included the examination of the relationship across sensory modalities and various types of restricted interests and repetitive behaviours. Data were collected from the parents of 114 children: 49 of whom were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and 65 typically-developing children. Parents completed the Sensory Profile 2 – Child Version and the Repetitive Behaviours Questionnaire, Second Edition. The results suggested that sensory hypersensitivity is strongly related to the core autism spectrum disorder symptom of repetitive behaviours. This relationship was not specific to autism spectrum disorder; repetitive behaviours significantly increased with sensory hypersensitivity in typically-developing individuals as well. This effect was consistent across all modalities in both autism spectrum disorder and typically developing groups; group differences were observed in the oral and tactile modalities. Furthermore, sensory hypersensitivity was significantly predictive of repetitive behaviours in all participants, autism spectrum disorder and typically-developing, and importantly, autism spectrum disorder diagnosis did not add any predictive influence above and beyond sensory hypersensitivity. Finally, sensory hypersensitivity was significantly predictive of all subdomains of repetitive behaviours, including repetitive motor movements, rigidity and adherence to routine, preoccupation with restricted patterns of interest and unusual sensory interests, and diagnosis added no predictive ability beyond sensory hypersensitivity.
Delayed autism spectrum disorder recognition in children and adolescents previously diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Kentrou Vasiliki , de Veld Danielle MJ , Mataw Kawita JK , Begeer Sander
Published: September 2018

Phenotypic elements of autism spectrum disorder can be masked by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, potentially leading to a misdiagnosis or delaying an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. This study explored differences in the age of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis between participants with previously diagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder versus autism spectrum disorder–only respondents. Children and adolescents, but not adults, initially diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder received an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis an average of 1.8 years later than autism spectrum disorder–only children, although the findings regarding the adult sample should be interpreted with caution. Gender differences were also explored, revealing that the delay in receiving an autism diagnosis was 1.5 years in boys and 2.6 years in girls with pre-existing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, compared with boys and girls without prior attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. No significant gender differences were observed in the adult sample. We argue that overlapping symptoms between autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder might delay a formal diagnosis of autism either by leading to a misdiagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or by making it difficult to identify the presence of co-occurring autism spectrum disorder conditions once an initial diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder has been obtained. Current findings highlight the need to recruit multidimensional and multidisciplinary screening procedures to assess for potential emerging autism spectrum disorder hallmarks in children and adolescents diagnosed or presenting with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms.
A prospective evaluation of telemonitoring use by seniors with chronic heart failure: Adoption, self-care, and empowerment
Authors: Jaana Mirou , Sherrard Heather , Paré Guy
Published: September 2018

Telemonitoring leverages technology for the follow-up of patients with heart failure. Limited evidence exists on how telemonitoring influences senior patients’ attitudes and self-care practices. This study examines telemonitoring impacts on patient empowerment and self-care, and explores adoption factors among senior patients. A longitudinal study design was used, involving three surveys of elderly with chronic heart failure (n = 23) 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months after beginning telemonitoring use. Self-care, patient empowerment, and adoption factors were assessed using existing scales. The patients involved in this study perceived value of using telemonitoring, did not expect it to be difficult to use, and did not encounter adoption barriers. There was a significant improvement in patients’ confidence in their ability to evaluate their symptoms, address them, and evaluate the effectiveness of the measures taken to address these symptoms. Yet, patients performed less self-care maintenance activities, and the capability of involvement in the decision-making related to their condition decreased. Telemonitoring can improve seniors’ confidence in evaluating and addressing their symptoms in relation to heart failure. This patient management approach should be coupled with targeted education geared toward self-maintenance and self-management practices.
Periodic solution to nonlinear oscillators without artificial noises by the homotopy perturbation method
Authors: Wu Yue
Published: September 2018

This paper elucidates a wrong trend in solving nonlinear oscillators. The homotopy perturbation method leads to a period solution to a nonlinear oscillator with high nonlinearity, while the Parker–Sochacki method results in a chaotic one and it is invalid for solving nonlinear oscillators.
Equal access to online information? Google’s suicide-prevention disparities may amplify a global digital divide
Authors: Scherr Sebastian , Haim Mario , Arendt Florian
Published: September 2018

Worldwide, people profit from equally accessible online health information via search engines. Therefore, equal access to health information is a global imperative. We studied one specific scenario, in which Google functions as a gatekeeper when people seek suicide-related information using both helpful and harmful suicide-related search terms. To help prevent suicides, Google implemented a “suicide-prevention result” (SPR) at the very top of such search results. While this effort deserves credit, the present investigation compiled evidence that the SPR is not equally displayed to all users. Using a virtual agent-based testing methodology, a set of 3 studies in 11 countries found that the presentation of the SPR varies depending on where people search for suicide-related information. Language is a key factor explaining these differences. Google’s algorithms thereby contribute to a global digital divide in online health-information access with possibly lethal consequences. Higher and globally balanced display frequencies are desirable.
Data fusion approaches for structural health monitoring and system identification: Past, present, and future
Authors: Wu Rih-Teng , Jahanshahi Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2018

During the past decades, significant efforts have been dedicated to develop reliable methods in structural health monitoring. The health assessment for the target structure of interest is achieved through the interpretation of collected data. At the beginning of the 21st century, the rapid advances in sensor technologies and data acquisition platforms have led to the new era of Big Data, where a huge amount of heterogeneous data are collected by a variety of sensors. The increasing accessibility and diversity of the data resources provide new opportunities for structural health monitoring, while the aggregation of information obtained from multiple sensors to make robust decisions remains a challenging problem. This article presents a comprehensive review of the recent data fusion applications in structural health monitoring. State-of-the-art theoretical concepts and applications of data fusion in structural health monitoring are presented. Challenges for data fusion in structural health monitoring are discussed, and a roadmap is provided for future research in this area.
Spontaneous resolution of direct carotid-cavernous fistulas: case series and literature review
Authors: Iampreechakul Prasert , Tirakotai Wuttipong , Tanpun Adisak , Wattanasen Yodkhwan , Lertbusayanukul Punjama , Siriwimonmas Somkiet
Published: September 2018

Spontaneous regression of direct carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) is extremely rare. Most of the patients with direct CCFs are usually treated using endovascular techniques. Spontaneous obliteration of the direct fistulas probably results from thrombosis of the venous drainage and/or cavernous sinus. We report spontaneous closure of nine direct CCFs in nine patients. From literature review, we found another 37 patients with 43 fistulas due to spontaneous obliteration of bilateral lesions in six cases. There was no spontaneous closure in large-sized fistula. The factors associated with spontaneous thrombosis of the fistulas may be low-flow and small-sized fistula, hypotension, severe ocular manifestations, dissections or spasm of carotid artery, and increased intracranial pressure. Spontaneous healing of direct traumatic CCFs should be confirmed with cerebral angiography. Conservative treatment of direct CCFs should be carefully restricted in patients with normal vision or minimal visual impairment, and the patients must be monitored closely for any changes in visual function. Prompt endovascular treatment for complete obliteration of the fistula should be performed in patients with rapidly progressive visual loss. Venous thrombosis can still effect vision and rerouting towards cortical veins remains a concern. Because spontaneous resolution cannot be reliably predicted, the fistula then should be treated rather than waiting for spontaneous thrombosis.
Do guidelines provide evidence-based guidance to health professionals on promoting developmentally appropriate chronic condition self-management in children? A systematic review
Authors: Saxby Nicole , Beggs Sean , Kariyawasam Nadish , Battersby Malcolm , Lawn Sharon
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To determine whether evidence-based practice guidelines promote developmentally appropriate chronic condition self-management for children with asthma, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and cystic fibrosis.

Methods

Systematic review of clinical guidelines current as at 22 September 2017, including assessment of quality of each guideline using the iCAHE ‘Guideline Quality Checklist’, and mapping of the supporting evidence.

Results

Fifteen guidelines were identified: asthma ( n=7) and type 1 diabetes mellitus ( n=7), CF ( n=1). Guideline quality was variable, and 11 different grading systems were used. In total, there were 28 recommendations promoting age/developmental considerations. Recommendations focused on: collaboration ( n=15), chronic condition self-management education ( n= 17), clinicians’ skills ( n= 4); personalized action plans ( n=3), problem-solving ( n=2); and the assessment of children’s chronic condition self-management needs ( n=3). Developmental transitions are highlighted as important time points in some guidelines: preschool ( n=2), and adolescence ( n=3). All guidelines encouraged triadic partnerships between children, adult caregivers and clinicians. Evidence supporting the developmental aspects of the guidelines’ recommendations was poor; only 14 out of 57 journals listed as evidence were concordant.

Discussion

Current guidelines articulate that developmentally appropriate chronic condition self-management is important; however, more work needs to be done to translate the concept into practical clinical tools.
Impact of meteorological conditions on the incidence of acute aortic dissection
Authors: Majd Payman , Madershahian Navid , Sabashnikov Anton , Weber Carolyn , Ahmad Wael , Weymann Alexander , Heinen Stephanie , Merkle Julia , Eghbalzadeh Kaveh , Wippermann Jens , Brunkwall Jan , Wahlers Thorsten
Published: September 2018

Background:

There is still much controversy about whether meteorological conditions influence the occurrence of acute aortic dissection (AAD). The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible correlation between atmospheric pressure, temperature, lunar cycle and the event of aortic dissection in our patient population.

Methods:

The clinical data for 348 patients with AAD (73% type Stanford A) were confronted with the meteorological data provided by the Cologne weather station over the same period.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between meteorological parameters on days of AAD events compared with control days. A logistic regression model showed that air pressure (odds ratio [OR] 1.004, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.991–1.017, p = 0.542), air temperature (OR 0.978, 95% CI 0.949–1.008, p = 0.145), season ( p = 0.918) and month of the event ( p = 0.175) as well as presence of full moon (OR 1.579, 95% CI 0.763–3.270, p = 0.219) were not able to predict AAD events. Also, no predictive power of meteorological data and season was found on analysing their impact on different types of AAD events.

Conclusions:

Our study did not reveal any dependence of atmospheric pressure, air temperature or the presence of full moon on the incidence of different types of AAD.