bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexy-Clothing Behavior of High School Girls: Sexual Self-Congruity and Parental and Popular Girls’ Influences
Authors: Chen-Yu Jessie H. , Elkins Anne Dillard , Norton Marjorie J. T.
Published: May 2020

The present study focused on the sexy-clothing behavior of high school girls. Specifically, we examined whether high school girls wear sexy clothes to express their actual sexual self-concepts and achieve their ideal sexual self-concepts and whether parents and popular girls influence those behaviors. The results, obtained by applying structural equation modeling to analyze the data collected from 384 ninth-grade girls, imply that such girls wear sexy clothes to convey their actual sexual self-concepts and achieve their ideal sexual self-concepts. The girls’ perceptions of parents’ sexy-clothing approval and of popular girls’ sexy-clothing wearing behavior influence the high school girls’ sexy-clothing wearing behavior. Parents significantly influence high school girls’ tendencies to wear sexy clothes to express their actual sexual self-concepts. Popular girls’ sexy-clothing wearing behavior influences high school girls’ tendencies to wear sexy clothes to achieve their ideal sexual self-concepts. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Neighborhood Poverty Histories and Physical Activity Among Children: Findings From the Geographic Research on Wellbeing (GROW) Study
Authors: Kim Yeonwoo , Cubbin Catherine
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

Examine the association between neighborhood poverty histories and physical activity, and the moderation effect of family poverty and the mediation effect of built environments in such association.

Design:

A cross-sectional study of the Geographic Research on Wellbeing (2012-2013), a follow-up survey of statewide-representative Maternal and Infant Health Assessment (2003-2007).

Setting:

California.

Participants:

A total of 2493 women with children.

Measures:

Outcome measures are (1) daily leisure physical activity and (2) days of physical activity among children. An independent variable is poverty histories of census tract where the child resided. Mediators were mother-perceived social cohesion, mother-perceived neighborhood safety, distance to the closest park, and park acreage within 0.5 miles from the home. A moderator is family poverty.

Analysis:

Weighted regression analysis.

Results:

Family poverty was a significant moderator ( P < .05); poor children in neighborhoods with long-term moderate poverty, long-term high poverty, or increasing poverty (vs long-term low poverty) had greater odds of daily physical activity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 1.50, 1.66, respectively). Nonpoor children in neighborhoods with long-term moderate poverty or increasing poverty (vs long-term low poverty) were associated with decreased odds of daily physical activity (OR = 0.61 and 0.44, respectively). Mediation associations were insignificant ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

The combined effect of family financial strains and neighborhood economic resources might prevent poor children in neighborhoods with long-term low poverty and decreasing poverty from utilizing health-promoting resources in neighborhoods.
The origin of Beliar in Sibylline Oracle 3.63: A new proposal
Authors: Kusio Mateusz
Published: May 2020

This article investigates Sibylline Oracle 3.63 which states that Beliar will come ἐκ Σεβαστηνῶν, “from the Sebastenoi.” Scholars have understood the verse as meaning that Beliar will be either a Roman imperial figure or a Samaritan false prophet. Pointing out the serious shortcomings of these hypotheses, the article argues that the Sibylline Beliar should be seen as originating in Asia, most probably in Phrygia or northern Galatia. The relevant numismatic and epigraphic evidence is explored along with references to those regions across the Sibylline Oracles. New interpretative possibilities generated by the proposal are also presented along with the suggestion that Sib. Or. 3.63–74 should be dated sometime between mid-first and mid-third century C.E. and provenanced to central Asia Minor.
In Generous Offers I Trust: The Effect of First-Offer Value on Economically Vulnerable Behaviors
Authors: Jeong Martha , Minson Julia A. , Gino Francesca
Published: May 2020

Negotiation scholarship espouses the importance of opening a bargaining situation with an aggressive offer, given the power of first offers to shape concessionary behavior and outcomes. In our research, we identified a surprising consequence to this common prescription. Through four studies in the field and laboratory (total N = 3,742), we explored how first-offer values affect the recipient’s perceptions of the offer-maker’s trustworthiness and, subsequently, the recipient’s behaviors. Specifically, we found that recipients of generous offers are more likely to make themselves economically vulnerable to their counterparts, exhibiting behaviors with potentially deleterious consequences, such as disclosing negative information. We observed this effect in an online marketplace (Study 1) and in an incentivized laboratory experiment (Study 3). We found that it is driven by the greater trust that generous first offers engender (Studies 2 and 3). These results persisted in the face of debiasing attempts and were surprising to lay negotiators (Studies 3 and 4).
Handling missing data in modelling quality of clinician-prescribed routine care: Sensitivity analysis of departure from missing at random assumption
Authors: Gachau Susan , Quartagno Matteo , Njagi Edmund Njeru , Owuor Nelson , English Mike , Ayieko Philip
Published: May 2020

Missing information is a major drawback in analyzing data collected in many routine health care settings. Multiple imputation assuming a missing at random mechanism is a popular method to handle missing data. The missing at random assumption cannot be confirmed from the observed data alone, hence the need for sensitivity analysis to assess robustness of inference. However, sensitivity analysis is rarely conducted and reported in practice. We analyzed routine paediatric data collected during a cluster randomized trial conducted in Kenyan hospitals. We imputed missing patient and clinician-level variables assuming the missing at random mechanism. We also imputed missing clinician-level variables assuming a missing not at random mechanism. We incorporated opinions from 15 clinical experts in the form of prior distributions and shift parameters in the delta adjustment method. An interaction between trial intervention arm and follow-up time, hospital, clinician and patient-level factors were included in a proportional odds random-effects analysis model. We performed these analyses using R functions derived from the jomo package. Parameter estimates from multiple imputation under the missing at random mechanism were similar to multiple imputation estimates assuming the missing not at random mechanism. Our inferences were insensitive to departures from the missing at random assumption using either the prior distributions or shift parameters sensitivity analysis approach.
The Iberian Peninsula and the First World War: Between neutrality and non-belligerency (1914–1916)
Authors: Pires Ana Paula
Published: May 2020

This article seeks to analyse the political and diplomatic effects of the outbreak of the First World War on the Iberian Peninsula, considering the relationship between Portugal and Spain in the context of the (dis)equilibria of power caused by the Sarajevo assassination in the summer of 1914, and the debates between neutrality and belligerency that occurred in both countries. Neutral and non-belligerent societies had to legitimate themselves within total war; they had also to reflect on the role played by their respective nations and build an Iberian narrative to sustain it. In this matter, Spanish neutrality and Portuguese non-belligerency, until 1916, should always be analysed as specific foreign policies and within the framework of the public debate ‘decadence vs regeneration’, present in both countries since the last decade of the nineteenth century.
War without contact: Berenhorst, Bülow, and the avoidance of violence as the core paradigm of military science
Authors: Kuhle Arthur
Published: May 2020

Georg Heinrich von Berenhorst and Dietrich von Bülow were perhaps the most inspirational war theorists of the late eighteenth century. Following Berenhorst, Bülow developed a theory that interpreted war as a dynamic system without physical contact, prompting Carl von Clausewitz to write a crushing critique that up to the present day obfuscates Bülow’s ideas. However, Clausewitz’s critique is based on a fundamental misconception, which illustrates how this decisive swerve in war theory continues to be neglected. This article demonstrates how Berenhorst and Bülow strived for introducing Newtonian standards to human behaviour for a pacifist theory of war.
Gun Control and National Defence in Sixteenth- and Seventeenth-Century Denmark
Authors: Lind Gunner
Published: May 2020

Light firearms were a challenge for governments during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. They not only were necessary in war but also posed a risk of poaching, crimes, and rebellion. Early modern gun control is often seen through the lens of social and political factors. This article highlights how the needs of war could constrain the desire to control. In the Danish case, military need completely reversed a trend towards less demand for popular armament and more restrictions on the guns of ‘common men’. This happened despite the existence of a large regular army and despite an aristocratic political system.
Application of Bootstrap Simulation and Asymmetric Causal Approach to Fiscal Deficit-Inflation Nexus
Authors: Olalekan Olaniyi Clement
Published: May 2020

This paper investigates the symmetric and asymmetric relationship between fiscal deficits and inflation in Nigeria within the context of bootstrap simulations with leverage adjustments using the quarterly frequency data from 1981Q1 to 2016Q4. The findings reveal that there is neither symmetric nor asymmetric causality between fiscal deficits and inflation in Nigeria. This implies that the fiscal deficits in Nigeria are not inflationary; and also, that persistent double-digit inflation rates are not the causal agents spurring perennial increase in fiscal deficits in Nigeria. This study, therefore, concludes that fiscal deficits could be used to stimulate output level in Nigeria without fueling inflationary spiral in the economy.

JEL Classification: C32, E17
The European Committee of the Regions as a watchdog of the principle of subsidiarity
Authors: Nicolosi Salvatore Fabio , Mustert Lisette
Published: May 2020

In a resolution adopted on 1 February 2018, the European Committee of the Regions noted that a legislative proposal of the European Commission concerning a Regulation that changes the rules governing the EU regional funds for 2014-2020 did not comply with the principle of subsidiarity. Accordingly, the Committee considered challenging the legislative proposal before the Court of Justice if the proposal was formally agreed upon. Although at a later stage the European Commission decided to take into account the Committee’s argument and amended the proposal accordingly, such a context offers the chance to investigate more in detail the role of the Committee of the Regions in the legislative process of the EU and, more in particular, its role as a watchdog of the principle of subsidiarity. This paper aims to shed light on a rather neglected aspect of the EU constitutional practice, such as the potential of the Committee of the Regions to contribute to the legislative process, and answer the question of whether this Committee is the right body to guarantee compliance with the principle of subsidiarity.
Naturalistic outcomes of continuation right unilateral ultrabrief ECT in major depression: a retrospective chart review
Authors: Atashnama Azadeh , Aly Husayn , Krishnan Vijay , Howari Rasha , Mayur Prashanth
Published: May 2020

Objective:

Continuation treatment of major depression following an acute course of electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) may be often required to prevent relapse. Data on continuation phase of right unilateral ultrabrief ECT are sparse and there are doubts if it is inherently capable of relapse prevention.

Methods:

All consecutive adult patients with major depression who received the first ‘run’ of continuation phase of right unilateral ultrabrief ECT over a 10-year period were routinely followed up. ECT frequency varied from weekly to up to once every 4 weeks for a maximum period of 6 months. The data were extracted from a retrospective chart review.

Results:

20 out of 22 patients persisted with ultrabrief pulses (0.3 ms) with two needing 0.5 ms pulse widths. The median duration of continuation treatment was 51 days (range: 14–460). At the end of 1 month ( n = 17), treatment gap in days mean (SD): 10.18 (7.08), widening to mean (SD): 20.11 (16.85) at 4 months ( n = 9). Stimulus dose increased throughout the continuation phase: p = 0.026. In 16 out of 22 patients, more than 70% of the visits were charted as being ‘in remission’.

Conclusion:

As most patients receiving ultrabrief ECT remained well, this study suggests that ultrabrief ECT can be used effectively in continuation therapy.
Reflection of a 2-year journey since the introduction of psychiatric behaviour of concern (Psy-BOC) call, a medical emergency team (MET) call equivalent for the deteriorating mental health of patients
Authors: Rauchberger Ilan , Whitecross Fiona
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To reflect on the challenges encountered and the resultant cultural changes that occurred during the implementation of psychiatric behaviour of concern (Psy-BOC), a medical emergency team (MET) equivalent for the deteriorating mental health of patients within an adult psychiatric inpatient unit.

Conclusions:

Implementing Psy-BOC on an adult psychiatric inpatient unit has been challenging, but it has successfully embedded a systematic approach to early escalation and capacity building to prevent and manage harmful behaviours.
Monash Gender Clinic: an overview of the current model of care
Authors: Erasmus Jaco
Published: May 2020

Objective:

This paper provides an update on recent developments at the largest state-funded gender clinic for adults in Australia. It focuses on the current staffing profile, the role of the mental health professional and the evolution of the clinic as a provider of specialist care supporting primary care providers who offer an informed consent model of care in accessing gender-affirming treatments.

Conclusions:

While significant improvements have been made at the clinic to provide comprehensive care in a framework that is viewed more favourably by clients, gaps in clinical service provision persist and are in need of urgent attention.
High-dose antipsychotic therapy and reflective prescribing: development of an online tool for rapid, easy calculation of antipsychotic total daily dose
Authors: Northwood Korinne , Theodoros Theo , Wang Nancy , Siskind Dan
Published: May 2020

Objective:

Safe and effective antipsychotic prescribing is a fundamental skill in psychiatric practice; however, antipsychotic medications are not without risk. These risks are increased when antipsychotics are prescribed in high doses, with or without polypharmacy. Decision-making regarding antipsychotic prescribing can be hampered by a lack of readily available or easily approachable tools for calculating and interpreting total daily doses, especially when antipsychotic polypharmacy is involved. Our objective was to create an accessible method for calculating antipsychotic total daily dosing.

Methods:

We have developed an online calculator for determining antipsychotic total daily dose using information on recommended maximum total daily dosing based on the British National Formulary.

Results:

This calculator is free, easy to implement and allows for users to input a large variety of possible antipsychotic dosing regimens.

Conclusions:

It is hoped that this tool will allow clinicians to readily review their prescribing practice, inform decision-making and improve patient safety outcomes. Further research may be appropriate to determine the impact of this tool on these intended goals.
The fentanyls: pharmacological and clinical aspects relevant to Australia
Authors: Greene Shaun L , Scamvougeras Anton , Norman Amanda , Bonomo Yvonne , Castle David J
Published: May 2020

Objective:

North American and other jurisdictions have seen an alarming rise in the abuse of the fentanyls, with related overdose deaths. We sought to review this group of drugs to alert Australian psychiatrists and drug and alcohol clinicians to their clinical effects and potential harms.

Conclusions:

The extreme potency of the fentanyls underlie their lethality. Vigilance and investment from both policy makers and health care providers are required to mitigate harm from a possible future Australian fentanyl epidemic.
Lifestyle and Cultural Factors Related to Longevity Among Older Adults in the Northeast of Thailand
Authors: Jantapo Alchalee , Kusoom Wichitra
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Healthy longevity is important in older adults. The lifestyle and cultural background are likely related to longevity. This study explored lifestyles and Buddhist Thai culture relating to longevity, and evaluated activities of daily living (ADL), body mass index (BMI), and mental health. Method: A mixed method using concurrent embedded strategy was employed. Qualitative data collection included observation and in-depth interviews with 30 older adults aged 80 years and above from Northeastern Thailand. Quantitative data: Barthel ADL, BMI, and Thai Geriatric Mental Health Assessment (T-GMH-A) were assessed. Content analysis was applied using the Strauss and Corbin method. Results: Four major themes were, promoting physical activities, prevention and control of diseases, mental health management, and Buddhist socio-Thai culture. Means of Barthel ADL, BMI, and T-GMH-A were 19.0 ( SD 1.1), 21.34 ( SD 3.07), and 53.53 ( SD 7.22), respectively. Discussion: These factors greatly influenced longevity and well-being. Culturally congruent care should be implemented to health care services.
Reasons for Use Package: Outcomes From a Case Comparison Evaluation
Authors: Myers Kevan , Kroes Simon , O’Connor Sarah , Petrakis Melissa
Published: May 2020

The objective was to explore the efficacy of a dual diagnosis resource—the Reasons For Use Package (RFUP)—to build staff capacity to work with service users and explore service user experiences. A two-state case comparison evaluation was conducted employing a mixed methods action research design, utilizing staff and service user surveys combined with focus groups involving staff trained and mentored in use of the RFUP. Results were that both staff and service users responded positively to the RFUP. Staff self-reported improvements in knowledge and confidence, and service users reported the RFUP assisted them with reflecting on interactions between their mental health and substance use; this assisted them with goal planning and improved their working relationship with staff. Implications were that training and mentoring in the RFUP can contribute to building staff knowledge and confidence in dual diagnosis interventions in mental health community services, and benefit service users.
School Wellness Environments: Perceptions Versus Realities
Authors: Lee Joey A. , McLoughlin Gabriella M. , Welk Gregory J.
Published: May 2020

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Final Rule on School Wellness Policy requires schools to self-evaluate wellness policies and environments. To understand the utility of this information, this study evaluates the validity of school-reported wellness information against directly observed data. Wellness leaders at 10 Midwestern elementary schools completed a questionnaire spanning nine school wellness settings. School-reported information was compared against a direct observation protocol. Percent agreement and κ statistics were used to assess agreement between school reporters and direct observation. Overall percent agreement between reporters and direct observation was 77.1%. Agreement ranged from 67.3% (Lunchroom Environment) to 92.0% (School Wellness Policies) across the nine categories. κ results showed that 65.7% of the items demonstrated fair or better reporter agreement. The results provide preliminary support for the utility of schools’ self-reported wellness information. Facilitation of independent reporting on wellness environments by school leaders will contribute to broader applications for school wellness programming.
Cognitive Anthropomorphism of AI: How Humans and Computers Classify Images
Authors: Mueller Shane T.
Published: May 2020

Modern artificial intelligence (AI) image classifiers have made impressive advances in recent years, but their performance often appears strange or violates expectations of users. This suggests that humans engage in cognitive anthropomorphism: expecting AI to have the same nature as human intelligence. This mismatch presents an obstacle to appropriate human-AI interaction. To delineate this mismatch, I examine known properties of human classification, in comparison with image classifier systems. Based on this examination, I offer three strategies for system design that can address the mismatch between human and AI classification: explainable AI, novel methods for training users, and new algorithms that match human cognition.
Amelanotic Malignant Melanoma of the Male Urethra: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Caputo Alessandro , Califano Alfonso , Fabiano Marco , Altieri Vincenzo , Zeppa Pio , D’Antonio Antonio
Published: May 2020

A rare disease in an unusual site can closely mimic a typical presentation of a common disease, sometimes with devastating consequences. We present a case of primary amelanotic malignant melanoma of the urethra in a male, with clinical and histological characteristics that could have led to a mistaken diagnosis of high-grade urothelial carcinoma. Amelanotic mucosal melanoma should be suspected in all cases of high-grade mucosal tumors with practically any appearance (epithelioid, sarcomatoid, anaplastic, mixed). Morphological hints pointing toward melanoma—such as the presence of sparse melanin pigment or melanoma in situ—should be sought, and if absent, an immunohistochemical panel comprising S100 and HMB45 should be performed.
The Combination of Oral Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapies: Stay One Step Ahead
Authors: Lucà Fabiana , Giubilato Simona , Fusco Stefania Angela Di , Leone Angelo , Poli Stefano , Rao Carmelo Massimiliano , Iorio Annamaria , Gelsomino Sandro , Gabrielli Domenico , Colivicchi Furio , De Luca Leonardo , Gulizia Michele Massimo
Published: May 2020

Antithrombotic drugs, which include antiplatelets and anticoagulants, are effective in prevention and treatment of many cardiovascular disorders such as acute coronary syndromes, stroke, and venous thromboembolism and are among the drugs most commonly prescribed worldwide. The advent of direct oral anticoagulants, which are safer alternatives to vitamin K antagonists and do not require laboratory monitoring, has revolutionized the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism. The combination of oral anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy is required in many conditions of great clinical impact such as the coexistence of atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease, with indication to percutaneous coronary intervention. However, strategies that combine anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies lead to a significant increase in bleeding rates and it is crucial to find the right combination in the single patient in order to optimize the ischemic and bleeding risk. The aim of this review is to explore the evidence and controversies regarding the optimal combination of anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy through the consideration of past dogmas and new perspectives from recent clinical trials and to propose a tailored therapeutic approach, according to specific clinical scenarios and individual patient characteristics. In particular, we separately explored the clinical settings of stable and acute coronary syndromes and percutaneous revascularization in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Comparative Study of the Clinical Application of 2 Bleeding Grading Systems for Pregnant Women With Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Huang Jianwan , Zeng Bangwei , Li Xiaofan , Huang Meijuan , Zhan Rong
Published: May 2020

Objective: To compare the clinical practicability of two bleeding grading systems (BGS) in pregnancy with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP). Methods: The clinical data of 154 cases were retrospectively analyzed with the 2016 version of the ITP Bleeding Scale (ITP-2016) and the ITP-specific bleeding assessment tool (ITP-BAT). The correlation between the two BGS and the relations among the platelet counts, gestational ages, and disease stages were respectively analyzed. Results: There is no significant difference between the two BGS in the patients’ ages, nor between the newly diagnosed and the persistent group or the chronic group, while the difference between the persistent and the chronic group was significant ( P = 0.001; P = 0.001). There is a negative correlation between the bleeding grade and platelet count (r = -0.436; r = -0.390), while the correlation between the two BGS was positive (r = 0.921). The proportions of identical scores provided by two different physicians using the two BGS were 94.8% and 93.5%. The difference before and after the treatment were significantly different ( P = 0.013; P = 0.037). It takes less time to score with the ITP-2016 ( P = 0.011). Conclusion: Both systems can be useful for disease evaluations, risk assessments and efficacy evaluations in Chinese pregnant women with ITP. The ITP-2016 takes less time and is more suitable for Chinese pregnant patients with ITP.
Changes in Homocysteine Levels Affect Serum Lipid Response to Atorvastatin in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Wu Dong-Feng , Wu Yin-Xiong , Deng Jin-Long
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The present study investigated whether changes in serum homocysteine (Hcy) levels modify the effects of atorvastatin treatment on blood lipid parameters in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods:

A total of 159 patients with ACS who received regular, long-term treatment with 20 mg/d atorvastatin were included. Depending on the changes in Hcy parameters, they were divided into Hcy reduction (HR) and Hcy elevation (HE) groups.

Results:

After long-term atorvastatin treatment, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein (Apo) B, and Hcy levels were decreased ( P < .05), and the ApoAI level was increased ( P < .01). Correlation and stratified analysis showed that Hcy or hyperhomocysteinemia was correlated with blood lipids. In both the HE and HR groups, the TC, LDL-C, and ApoB levels after treatment were lower than those before treatment ( P < .01), and the ApoAI level was increased compared with that before treatment ( P < .05). There was no difference in the reduction of TC, LDL-C, and ApoB levels or in the increase of ApoAI level ( P interaction > .05) between the 2 groups. However, there was a clear opposite trend of the effect of atorvastatin on TG and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels between the HR and HE groups ( P interaction < .05). In the HR group, the HDL-C level was increased ( P < .05), and TGs were decreased compared with those before treatment ( P < .01). Nevertheless, in the HE group, the HDL-C level was decreased ( P < .05), and TGs ( P < .05) were increased compared with those before treatment.

Conclusion:

The effects of atorvastatin on TGs and HDL-C depend on changes in Hcy levels. Patients with a reduced Hcy level after atorvastatin treatment had more favorable lipid parameters.
Nonlinear analysis of electrostatic micro-electro-mechanical systems resonators subject to delayed proportional–derivative controller
Authors: Ngouabo Ulrich Gaël , Nwagoum Tuwa Peguy Roussel , Noubissie Samuel , Woafo Paul
Published: May 2020

The present study deals with the nonlinear analysis of electrostatic micro-electro-mechanical systems resonators with two symmetric electrodes and subjected to delayed proportional–derivative controller. After a brief description of the model, the stability analysis of the linearized system is presented to depict the stability charts in the parameter space of proportional gain and time delay. The bifurcation diagram is used to confirm the existence of the delay-dependent and delay-independent regions and to analyze the effect of proportional–derivative gains and time delay on the dynamics of the system. Using Melnikov’s theorem, the criterion for the appearance of horseshoe chaos from homoclinic and heteroclinic bifurcations is presented. Melnikov’s predictions are confirmed by using the numerical simulations based on the basin of attraction of initial conditions. It is found that the increase in proportional gain contributes to increase the region of regular motion in both bifurcations. However, the increase in derivative gain contributes rather to reduce the region of regular motion for homoclinic bifurcation, although it increases rather this region in the case of heteroclinic bifurcation. Moreover, it is also observed, depending on proportional–derivative gains, the existence of a critical value of the delay where before it, the region of regular motion increases and after it, decreases rather.
Denoising of seismic signals based on empirical mode decomposition-wavelet thresholding
Authors: Long Li , Wen Xiulan , Lin Yixue
Published: May 2020

Unattended object detection systems have seen full applications in military surveillance, object recognition, and intrusion prevention. When applied to actual work scenarios, these systems have problems such as low recognition accuracy, low positioning accuracy, and weak detection effect of distant objects. Obtainment of enough feature information concerning the effective signals is critical to target recognition. This work focuses on interference in seismic signals and the way to store the feature information of effective signals. First, the authors analyzed the frequency and attenuation characteristics of seismic waves of typical target sites, in which the Rayleigh wave is suitable for the detection of the energy of seismic signals produced by human targets and vehicles. As seismic signals are low-frequency waves, the authors researched the performance of the empirical mode decomposition method and the wavelet thresholding method in denoising seismic signals, and an improved empirical mode decomposition-wavelet threshold denoising method is proposed. The test result shows that the improved denoising method can effectively remove noise in seismic signals and preserve the effective signals of the target.
Nonlinear vibration analysis of two-phase local/nonlocal nanobeams with size-dependent nonlinearity by using Galerkin method
Authors: Fakher Mahmood , Hosseini-Hashemi Shahrokh
Published: May 2020

It has been proved that using pure nonlocal elasticity, especially in differential form, leads to inconsistent and unreliable results. Therefore, to obviate these weaknesses, Eringen’s two-phase local/nonlocal elasticity has been recently used by researchers to consider the nonlocal size dependency of nanostructures. Given this, for the first time, the size-dependent nonlinear free vibration of nanobeams is investigated in this article within the framework of two-phase elasticity by using the Galerkin method. Contrary to differential nonlocal elasticity, the size dependency of the axial tension force, due to von Karman nonlinearity, is considered, and its effect on the nonlinear vibration is examined. The correct procedure of using the Galerkin method for studying the nonlinear vibration of two-phase nanobeams is introduced. It is shown that, although it is possible to extract the linear mode shapes of two-phase nanobeams using its equal differential equation, integral form of two-phase elasticity should be considered in the Galerkin method. Furthermore, it is observed that in two-phase elasticity, applying classic mode shapes in the Galerkin method leads to significant errors, especially in higher nonlocal parameters and lower values of local phase fraction and amplitude ratios.
Design of Communication: Two Contexts for Understanding How Design Shapes Digital Media
Authors: Vasudevan Krishnan
Published: May 2020

This essay examines two contexts for understanding how design informs peoples’ understanding of news and information. The construct of frictionless design articulates how social networking platforms, such as Facebook, employ persuasive design to manipulate user behavior in ways that optimize advertising revenues. This necessitates that scholars critically examine the design elements of digital interfaces such as color, affordances, feedback, and metaphor. I also introduce the design of journalism to contextualize how news organizations have adopted design principles to create personalized news products. This requires that scholars study the new practices, products, and ethical considerations of this convergence.
The Validity of Teacher Rating Scales for the Assessment of ADHD Symptoms in the Classroom: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Staff Anouck I. , Oosterlaan Jaap , van der Oord Saskia , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Vertessen Karen , de Vries Ralph , van den Hoofdakker Barbara J. , Luman Marjolein
Published: May 2020

Objective: To assess attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in the classroom, most often teacher rating scales are used. However, clinical interviews and observations are recommended as gold standard assessment. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the validity of teacher rating scales. Method: Twenty-two studies ( N = 3,947 children) assessing ADHD symptoms using teacher rating scale and either semi-structured clinical interview or structured classroom observation were meta-analyzed. Results: Results showed convergent validity for rating scale scores, with the strongest correlations ( r = .55–.64) for validation against interviews, and for hyperactive–impulsive behavior. Divergent validity was confirmed for teacher ratings validated against interviews, whereas validated against observations this was confirmed for inattention only. Conclusion: Teacher rating scales appear a valid and time-efficient measure to assess classroom ADHD; although validated against semi-structured clinical interviews, there were only a few studies available. Low correlations between ratings and structured observations of inattention suggest that observations could add information above rating scales.
The MOVE Framework: Meanings, Observations, Viewpoints, and Experiences in processes of Social Change
Authors: Power Séamus A. , Velez Gabriel
Published: May 2020

Social psychologists are often criticized for failing to capture the dynamic nature of psychological processes. We present a novel framework to address this problem. The MOVE framework contends that to comprehend complex, contradictory, and divergent patterns of thought, affect, and behavior within changing, real-world contexts, it is necessary to undertake ecologically valid research that is attentive to the lived experiences and meaning-making processes of culturally embedded individuals over time. A focus on meanings, observations, viewpoints, and experiences is essential for social psychological research that holistically captures how people construct, understand, respond, position, and act over time within changing social, economic, and political contexts. To illustrate the utility of our proposition, we draw on classic social psychological studies and multimethod fieldwork during a period of rapid social and political change in Colombia during the peace process (2012–2017). We argue the MOVE framework has the potential to advance psychological understandings of, and contributions to, individuals embedded in real, dynamic social and political contexts. We discuss the implications of this extended social psychological paradigm for advancing psychological science.
Evaluating Equivalence and Confirming the Null in the Organizational Sciences
Authors: Stanton Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2020

Testing and rejecting the null hypothesis is a routine part of quantitative research, but relatively few organizational researchers prepare for confirming the null or, similarly, testing a hypothesis of equivalence (e.g., that two group means are practically identical). Both theory and practice could benefit from greater attention to this capability. Planning ahead for equivalence testing also provides helpful input on assuring sufficient statistical power in a study. This article provides background on these ideas plus guidance on the use of two frequentist and two Bayesian techniques for testing a hypothesis of no nontrivial effect. The guidance highlights some faulty strategies and how to avoid them. An organizationally relevant example illustrates how to put these techniques into practice. A simulation compares the four techniques to support recommendations of when and how to use each one. A nine-step process table describes separate analytical tracks for frequentist and Bayesian equivalence techniques.
The Effect of Noise in the Intensive Care Unit on the Oxidative Stress Response in Rats
Authors: Boyacioglu Nurcan , Ozkan Sultan
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of noise in the intensive care unit (ICU) on oxidative stress in a rat model.

Method:

This study had both a descriptive and a randomized controlled experimental stage. In the descriptive stage, to create a laboratory model of noise in the ICU, the noise level was measured for 24 hr on a randomly selected day in a surgical ICU, and voice recording was performed using a sound recording device. In the experimental stage, 30 male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: a control group and groups exposed to the recording of the noise from the ICU for 24, 48, 72, and 168 hr.

Results:

The noise level in the ICU was higher than the levels recommended for hospitals. Plasma corticosterone levels of the rats in the group exposed to the ICU noise for 168 hr were significantly higher than those of the control group. Plasma total protein values were significantly reduced in the rats exposed to 48, 72, and 168 hr of ICU noise compared to those of the control group. Superoxide dismutase activity was significantly decreased and malondialdehyde levels significantly increased in serum, spleen, and brain tissues as the duration of noise exposure increased.

Conclusion:

Findings reveal that rats experienced increasing levels of stress and oxidative stress as time exposed to the ICU noise increased. These results suggest that interventions to reduce noise in the ICU may be warranted.
Synergistic Effect of Low Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratio With Physical Activity on Quality of Life in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Rias Yohanes Andy , Kurniasari Maria Dyah , Traynor Victoria , Niu Shu Fen , Wiratama Bayu Satria , Chang Ching Wen , Tsai Hsiu Ting
Published: May 2020

Background:

Physical inactivity and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)–associated inflammatory biomarkers are correlated with poor quality of life (QoL). However, no study has investigated the synergistic effect of physical activity (PA) and lower neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on QoL.

Objective:

We examined the independent and synergistic effects of PA and inflammatory biomarkers on three domains of QoL in T2DM.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 294 patients with T2DM from community clinics in Indonesia. The 36-item Short Form Survey and a questionnaire about PA engagement were used to measure QoL and metabolic equivalent of task (MET)-hr/week, respectively. Inflammatory biomarkers were measured in fasting blood. Adjusted coefficients β and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using multiple linear regression. The synergistic effect was analyzed using additive interaction for linear regression.

Results:

Patients with PA ≥ 7.5 MET-hr/week exhibited significantly higher total QoL (β = 8.41, 95% CI = [6.04, 10.78]) and physical component score (PCS; β = 13.90, 95% CI = [10.52, 17.29]) than those with PA < 7.5 MET-hr/week. Patients with NLR < 1.940 had significantly higher total QoL (β = 4.76, 95% CI = [3.41, 6.11]), mental component score (MCS; β = 2.62, 95% CI = [0.75, 4.49]), and PCS (β = 6.89, 95% CI = [4.97, 8.82]) than patients with NLR ≥ 1.940. PA ≥ 7.5 MET-hr/week and NLR < 1.940 exhibited a synergistic effect on total QoL, MCS, and PCS.

Conclusions:

High PA level and low NLR had a positive synergistic effect on QoL among patients with T2DM.
Course of the sciatic nerve on magnetic resonance imaging in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip
Authors: Suzuki Koji
Published: May 2020

Background:

Sciatic nerve palsy is a serious complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). This is the first study to report the relationship between the sciatic nerve and the acetabulum on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before THA.

Methods:

235 patients underwent 261 elective, primary THAs via the mini-incision posterolateral approach. We measured the horizontal distance (mm) and vertical distance (mm) from the posterior edge of the acetabulum to the sciatic nerve by T1-weighted imaging on an axial section of the centre of the femoral head. We defined the Dysplastic Group as having a posterior acetabular sector angle (PASA) <90° and the Non-dysplastic Group as having a PASA ⩾ 90°. We compared anatomical distances and angles between the 2 groups.

Results:

The horizontal and vertical distances were (mean ± SD) 8.0 ± 9.2 mm and 14 ± 5.0 mm from the posterior edge of the acetabulum to the lateral edge of the sciatic nerve, respectively. The acetabular anteversion (AA), anterior acetabular sector angle (AASA), and PASA were (mean ± SD) 19 ± 6.7°, 49 ± 8.4°, and 87 ± 8.6°, respectively. The horizontal and vertical distances were positively correlated ( p < 0.0001). AA and PASA were positively correlated with the horizontal distances ( p < 0.0001) as well as with the vertical distances ( p = 0.0017 and p = 0.0438, respectively). The horizontal and vertical distances were significantly shorter in the Dysplastic Group than in the Non-dysplastic Group ( p < 0.0001 and p = 0.021, respectively).

Conclusions:

In cases of posterior acetabular dysplasia we have to be mindful of the course of the sciatic nerve.
Efficacy of the transjugular approach in endovascular intervention for hemodialysis access comparing with conventional approach
Authors: Lee Chang Hun , Gwon Jun Gyo , Jung Cheol Woong , Cho Sung Bum
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

Compared with the conventional approach, the benefits of the transjugular approach in endovascular intervention for hemodialysis access avoids complications due to direct puncture and reduces direct radiation exposure to the hands of operator. The aim of this non-inferiority study was to evaluate the efficacy of the transjugular approach in endovascular intervention for hemodialysis access comparing with conventional approach.

Methods:

We retrospectively assessed endovascular intervention for hemodialysis access performed in our hospital from 2012 to 2016, divided into the conventional approach group and the transjugular approach group. The hemodialysis access survival rate, re-intervention survival rate, and lesion characteristics were comparatively evaluated.

Results:

We included 223 cases in 118 patients (146 cases with conventional approaches and 77 cases with transjugular approaches). There was a higher incidence of thrombosis with the conventional approach (p < 0.001), however, no significant difference in the hemodialysis access type or main lesion location. The transjugular approach showed either a better hemodialysis access survival rate (p = 0.017) and a trend toward improved re-intervention survival rate (p = 0.098) than the conventional approach. Following classification according to the presence of thrombus, there was no significant difference in either the hemodialysis access survival rate or the re-intervention survival rate between the approaches with or without thrombus.

Conclusion:

The transjugular approach could be performed in most cases and was similar to the conventional approach in terms of outcomes. The transjugular approach should be considered as an alternative to either replace or use in combination with the conventional approach in endovascular intervention for hemodialysis access.
Predicting arterio-venous fistula failure by urea–method derived access blood flow in chronic hemodialysis patients
Authors: Lelamali Kumtorn , Papirachanat Piyarek , Puavilai Thitiya
Published: May 2020

Background:

Dialysis access is an essential part of hemodialysis. Determining the access blood flow (Qa) can help predict arterio-venous fistula thrombosis. Qa determination by the urea method, which was previously described in the past is simple and is available in most of the dialysis units but was not be able to predict arterio-venous fistula thrombosis.

Aim:

To compare the efficacy of Qa determination by the urea method and by ultrasound dilution methods in predicting arterio-venous fistula failure.

Methods:

Qa was measured by urea method and by ultrasound dilution simultaneously, every 3 months for a period of 1 year, in stable chronic hemodialysis patients with arterio-venous fistula. Arterio-venous fistula failure determined by clinical parameters and confirmed by Doppler ultrasound before sending the patient for interventional angioplasty.

Results:

This study enrolled a total of 16 patients, with 63% being male, 75% with lower-arm arterio-venous fistula and around 43% with previously done angioplasty. 59-Qa measurements were done, and 6 patients underwent angioplasty (one patient for severe upper limb edema, one for access thrombosis, and four for access dysfunction). Qa determination by the urea method had non-significantly lower Qa, (745 mL/min (interquartile range: 509–1143) and 779 mL/min (interquartile range: 530–1160), (p = 0.58)) and high correlation (r = 0.83, p < 0.001) to Qa by ultrasound dilution. The cut-off criteria with its sensitivity and specificity in predicting the access failure were 440 mL/min, 66.67%, and 96.15% for Qa determination by the urea and 400 mL/min, 66.67% and 90.38% for Qa by ultrasound dilution, respectively, with no difference in the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Conclusion:

Measurement of Qa determination by the urea method is well correlated with Qa by ultrasound dilution and can be used to predict vascular access failure.
Tryptophan as a Central Hub for Host/Microbial Symbiosis
Authors: Borghi Monica , Puccetti Matteo , Pariano Marilena , Renga Giorgia , Stincardini Claudia , Ricci Maurizio , Giovagnoli Stefano , Costantini Claudio , Romani Luigina
Published: May 2020

Amino acid catabolism occurs during inflammation and regulates innate and adaptive immunity. The role of commensal bacteria in amino acid catabolism and the production of metabolites able to regulate the development and function of the innate immune system is increasingly being recognized. Therefore, commensal bacteria are key players in the maintenance of immune homeostasis. However, the intestinal microbiota also contributes to susceptibility and response to infectious diseases. This is self-evident for fungal infections known to occur as a consequence of weakened immune system and broad-spectrum antibiotic use or abuse. Thus, diseases caused by opportunistic fungi can no longer be viewed as dependent only on a weakened host but also on a disrupted microbiota. Based on these premises, the present review focuses on the role of amino acid metabolic pathways in the dialogue between the mammalian host and its microbiota and the potential implications in fungal commensalism and infectivity.