bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surveys for natural enemies of the tomato red spider mite Tetranychus evansi (Acari: Tetranychidae) in northeastern and southeastern Brazil
Authors: FIABOE KOMI K. M. , GONDIM JR MANOEL G. C. , DE MORAES GILBERTO J. , OGOL CALLISTUS K. P. O. , KNAPP MARKUS
Published: December 2016

Surveys for predators of the tomato red spider mite Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard on solanaceous plants were carried out in north-eastern and south-eastern Brazil to determine prospective species for the control of the pest in Africa. Surveys were carried out in areas identified as climatically similar to regions in Africa where T. evansi has been reported as a pest and where prospective natural enemies may be introduced. A total of 56,445 mites and insects were found in 330 samples collected from 20 different species of solanaceous plants. Tetranychus evansi was found in only three samples, on Solanum americanum Mill. and Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.. A total of 5,023 specimens of predatory mites, of at least 44 species, and 494 specimens of acarophagous insects, of at least three species were collected. The predominant predatory mites were (in decreasing order): Phytoseius guianensis DeLeon, Pronematus ubiquitus (McGregor), Asca sp., Paraphytoseius orientalis (Narayanan, Kaur & Ghai), Phytoseius woodburyii DeLeon, Amblyseius compositus Denmark & Muma, Homeopronematus anconai (Baker), Neoparaphytoseius sooretamus (El-Banhawy), Cunaxoides sp., Typhlodromus paraevectus Moraes & McMurtry, Typhlodromalus peregrinus (Muma) and Phytoseius cismontanus DeLeon. However, no predatory mites were found in association with T. evansi. Among the insects, although not the most abundant, Stethorus tridens Gordon seemed to be most promising, as it was found associated with T. evansi in all samples in which the latter was found. Feltiella sp. was the most abundant acarophagous insect found, but it was never found associated with the pest.
Differences in karyotype between two sympatric species of Gymnotus (Gymnotiformes: Gymnotidae) from the eastern amazon of Brazil
Authors: MILHOMEM SUSANA SUELY RODRIGUES , PIECZARKA JULIO CESAR , CRAMPTON WILLIAM GARETH RICHARD , DE SOUZA AUGUSTO CESAR PAES , CARVALHO JR JAIME RIBEIRO , NAGAMACHI CLEUSA YOSHIKO
Published: December 2016

In this paper we describe the karyotypes of two sympatric species of Gymnotus from Marajó Island, Pará, in the Eastern Amazon basin of Brazil. One of these species, G. mamiraua, has not previously been identified from this area. Karyotype studies demonstrate that G. cf. carapo Linnaeus, has 2n=42 (30M/SM+12ST/A) and G. mamiraua Albert & Crampton, 2n=54 (50M/SM+4ST). The Nucleolar Organizer Region (NOR) was found in the distal region of the short arm of pair 20 in G. cf. carapo and in the interstitial region of pair 1 of G. mamiraua. Both species have centromeric constitutive heterochromatin (CH) in all chromosomes and some in interstitial or distal regions. In both species, 4´6-Diamidino-2- phenylindole (DAPI) staining has shown banding concordant with C-banding, whereas the Chromomycin A3 (CMA3) staining in both species agrees with the NOR location. The new data and review of cytogenetic data in Gymnotus presented here is concordant with a hypothesis that G. carapo is either a complex of populations, or a complex of morphologically similar cryptic species with distinct karyotypes. These taxa may be reproductively isolated by prezygotic reproductive isolation barriers (such as the structure of the Electric Organ Discharge), or by post-zygotic barriers (such as karyotypic formula). The understanding of the cytogenetic structure of G. carapo, combined with associated studies of signal diversity, will yield insight into the mechanisms underlying the origins and maintenance of high species diversity in Gymnotus.
Review of the Oriental and Palaearctic bee fly genus Euchariomyia Bigot (Diptera: Bombyliidae: Bombyliinae)
Authors: EVENHUIS NEAL L. , GANG YAO
Published: December 2016

The bee fly genus Euchariomyia Bigot is reviewed and new records from the Oriental Region are given. Five names (for four species-level taxa) have been associated with species in the genus. Examinations of types, as well as homotypic and topotypic specimens, shows all five names to belong to a highly variable single species, Euchariomyia dives Bigot. The following species are here shown to be the same as Euchariomyia dives Bigot: Bombylius pulchellus Wulp, 1880, Bombylius scintillans Brunetti, 1909, and Bombylius brunettii Senior-White, 1922, n. syn. The genus is known primarily from the southern and eastern Oriental Region and ranges into the Palaearctic in eastern China. We extend the distribution of the genus with new records in the southeastern Oriental Region [Indonesia (Sumatra), Laos, Peninsular Malaysia, and Vietnam].
A new genus of the subfamily Cillaeinae (Coleoptera, Nitidulidae) from the Philippines and New Guinea with notes on the taxonomy and phylogeny of the subfamily
Authors: KIREJTSHUK ALEXANDER G. , KOVALEV ALEXEY V.
Published: December 2016

Allenipeplus gen. nov. represented by A. philippinensis sp. nov., type species (Philippines, Luzon), A. alius sp. nov. (Philippines, Mindoro), A. harmonicus sp. nov. (Philippines, Mindanao) and A. vitellinus sp. nov. (Indonesian New Guinea), is described. This new genus combines characters with a mosaic spread among other cillaeine genera. We present a wide comparison of genera among the subfamily Cillaeinae, making it possible to elaborate a detailed diagnosis of the new genus and trace some order in character patterns and propose a hypothesis on the relationship of this genus to other groups known from the Indo-Malayan and Australian Regions. A detailed diagnosis of the new genus and key to the new species are given. The Adocimus-complex of the related genera including Allenipeplus gen. nov., Adocimus Murray, 1864, Ithyphenes Murray, 1864, Platynema Ritsema, 1885 and probably Brittonema Kirejtshuk, 2011 is defined. Some notes on the taxonomy of the genera Liparopeplus Murray, 1864 and Xanthopeplus Fairmaire, 1880, stat. nov. are given. Additionally, designation of a lectotype for Liparopeplus colastoides Murray, 1864 is made.
The Effect of Unionization on Productivity: Evidence from a Long Panel of Coal Mines
Authors: Boal William M.
Published: December 2016

The author measures the effect of unionization on productivity based on a panel of West Virginia coal mines from 1897 to 1928. Output and inputs are measured in physical terms, and most of the mines in the panel changed union status at least once, though not simultaneously, so the panel is close to ideal for measuring the effect of unionization on productivity. Fixed-effects estimates show that the union had little effect on productivity before 1914, but thereafter it had a negative effect of 5 to 10%. This negative effect was not reversed when mines were later deunionized. The author evaluates a variety of possible explanations for these results. Some evidence points to declining investment at union mines relative to nonunion mines, but the evidence is circumstantial and the direction of causality is unclear. The most plausible explanation is a sharp deterioration in labor relations at union mines after the violent Paint Creek-Cabin Creek strike of 1912–1913.
(How) Does Obesity Harm Academic Performance? Stratification at the Intersection of Race, Sex, and Body Size in Elementary and High School
Authors: Branigan Amelia R.
Published: December 2016

In this study I hypothesize a larger penalty of obesity on teacher-assessed academic performance for white girls in English, where femininity is privileged, than in math, where stereotypical femininity is perceived to be a detriment. This pattern of associations would be expected if obesity largely influences academic performance through social pathways, such as discrimination and stigma. In the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (age ~9) and the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1997 (age ~18), I find obesity to be associated with a penalty on academic performance among white girls in English but not in math, while no association is found in either subject for white boys or for black students net of controls. Findings suggest that the relationship between obesity and academic performance may result largely from how educational institutions interact differently with bodies of different sizes rather than primarily via constraints on physical health.
Causal Comparability, Causal Generalizations, and Epistemic Homogeneity
Authors: Runhardt Rosa W.
Published: December 2016

The issue of causal comparability in the social sciences underlies matters of both generalization and extrapolation (or external validity). After critiquing two existing interpretations of comparability, due to Hitchcock and Hausman, I propose a distinction between ontological and epistemic comparability. While the former refers to whether two cases are actually comparable, the latter respects that in cases of incomplete information, we need to rely on whatever evidence we have of comparability. I argue, using a political science case study, that in those cases of imperfect information, an epistemic homogeneity criterion can be an adequate justification for generalization.
Exploring the Effect of Immediate Video Feedback on Coaching
Authors: Suhrheinrich Jessica , Chan Janice
Published: December 2016

Although evidence-based practices for autism spectrum disorders exist, they are often not effectively incorporated into school-based programs, indicating a need for enhanced training strategies for educators. This study examined the effects of immediate video feedback during coaching for teachers and paraprofessionals learning Classroom Pivotal Response Teaching (CPRT). Special education teachers, along with their classroom paraprofessionals, were randomly assigned to a coaching as usual (CAU) or a coaching with video enhancement (VE) condition. Both groups received both verbal and written feedback regarding strengths and weaknesses of their CPRT implementation. Additionally, the VE condition received video feedback during their coaching sessions. Overall, teachers demonstrated higher fidelity of implementation than paraprofessionals, t(44) = −2.73, p < .01, but no significant group differences were identified between VE and CAU conditions. Univariate analysis of variance models were conducted to examine the relationship between participant satisfaction regarding overall quality of the training and highest percentage of CPRT components passed, F(2, 37) = 3.93, p = .03. Results indicate use of the iPad may impact training outcomes and participant satisfaction with training procedures and add to the very limited literature on how technology may be used to enhance in-service training for teachers.
Generalization Following Tablet-Based Instruction in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Chebli Sabine Saade , Lanovaz Marc J. , Dufour Marie-Michèle
Published: December 2016

Given that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often require one-to-one individualized instruction, using tablets as teaching tools may represent an interesting option in classrooms with high student to teacher ratios. The purpose of our study was to extend research by evaluating the effects of tablet-based instruction on the generalization of skills in children with ASD. Specifically, we used multiple probe designs to assess the effectiveness of using an app to teach one-word receptive identification to five children with ASD between 4 and 11 years old. Our results indicated that three of the five children displayed generalization on at least two concepts following tablet-based instruction. The tablet-based app may promote generalization of learned concepts in some children with ASD, but our results suggest that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As such, our study underlines the importance of conducting individualized assessment prior to using tablet-based instruction with children with ASD.
Negotiating “New” Narratives
Authors: Bailey Kyle , Oliver Robert , Gaffney Christopher , Kolivras Korine
Published: December 2016

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is currently in the midst of an extraordinary period of mega-event hosting. While a large number of articles have been keen to illustrate the transformative potential and dilemmas of utilizing mega-events to advance an urban agenda, less understood is the role that media play in the construction of the “media geography” of mega-events. This research examines the collective narratives crafted by five Western international news outlets that emerged in the lead up to Brazil’s 2014 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup. Incorporating interviews with international and new media journalists from a number of organizations, we illustrate the difficulty that foreign journalists faced in their attempts to represent the circumstances of “two Brazils”—one that was hosting a global event and another that is mired in structural injustice. We also highlight the role new media played in shifting the representative frame as Rio de Janeiro prepared for the tournament.
Effectiveness of Pediatric Palliative Care Education on Pediatric Clinicians
Authors: Peng Niang-Huei , Lee Cheng-Han , Lee Min-Chun , Huang Li-Chi , Chang Yue-Cune , DeSwarte-Wallace Joetta
Published: December 2016

A lack of knowledge and skills in pediatric palliative care may create hesitation in caring for children with serious life-threatening conditions and their families. Our research examined the effectiveness of pediatric palliative care training for pediatric clinicians. A pretest–posttest study provided educational training in pediatric palliative care to pediatric clinicians and used a pretest and a posttest to assess outcomes. Fifty pediatric clinicians attended this research with 83.3% response rate. After training, participants reported significantly increased confidence in a variety of areas, including providing emotional support to clinicians, personal knowledge, skills, and communication; ethical and legal concerns; and providing emotional support to dying children and their families. Results showed a significant main effect of training on confidence levels ( p < .000). This suggests that education can effectively boost pediatric clinicians’ confidence regarding providing pediatric palliative care and therefore should regularly be provided to clinicians.
Octreotide use in post-cardiac surgery chylothorax: a 12-year perspective
Authors: Aljazairi Abdulrazaq Sheikh , Bhuiyan Tauhid Ahmed , Alwadai Abdullah Hasan , Almehizia Rayd Abdulaziz
Published: December 2016

Background

Chylothorax following cardiothoracic surgery is a rare condition in pediatric patients with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacological management with octreotide suggests possible efficacy; however, current evidence is inadequate. The objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of octreotide as a therapeutic option in this clinical setting.

Methods

This was a 12-year single-center retrospective cohort study of all patients (birth to 18-years old) who received octreotide for management of post-cardiac surgery chylothorax between January 2003 to August 2015. The primary efficacy endpoint was resolution of chylothorax, categorized as complete (<2 mL·kg−1·day−1), partial (based on physician’s judgement), or failed. The primary safety endpoint was any significant adverse drug reaction leading to discontinuation of octreotide therapy. Of the 46 patients identified as receiving octreotide for post-cardiac surgery chylothorax, 29 were included in efficacy and safety analyses.

Results

Resolution of chylothorax was achieved in 62% (complete in 28%, partial in 34%) of the total sample. The 38% who did not respond to octreotide therapy required thoracic duct ligation. The mean initial dose and duration of octreotide was 4 ± 3 µg·kg−1·h−1 and 10 ± 5 days, respectively. Besides minor side-effects including transient hyperglycemia (45%), abdominal distension (3%), and tachycardia (>150 beats·min−1; 10%), no patient developed a significant side-effect that required discontinuation of therapy.

Conclusions

Pharmacological management of post-cardiac surgery induced chylothorax with octreotide shows promising benefits with an acceptable safety profile.
An approach to determine the frequency of bridges in an urban context: The case of European cities
Authors: Plasencia-Lozano Pedro
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this paper is to determine the existence of a possible expected bridge frequency (number of bridges per unit of measurement) in an urban context. To achieve this, a method was developed to calculate the real frequency of crossing points already built over water bodies in inner cities. The method was based on collecting different measurable data of different cities using images from Google Earth. Furthermore, this method was applied to evaluate bridges built in several European cities that have a river. The results show that there is a clear link between the frequency of urban bridges and the width of the river, expressed by a power law function which defines bridge frequency as an inverse function of river width. Also, there is no direct link between the size of the city and the number of crossing points built in the city. Additionally, two new urban development projects on rivers were evaluated by using the defined power law function. Thus, it was concluded that future urban development close to rivers could use this function to decide the number of new crossing points. Furthermore, the ideal distance between consecutive urban bridges has been determined.
Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with sensory cueing on unilateral neglect in subacute patients with right hemispheric stroke: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Yang Nicole YH , Fong Kenneth NK , Li-Tsang Cecilia WP , Zhou D
Published: December 2016

Objective:

To compare the effects of rTMS combined with sensory cueing, rTMS alone, and conventional rehabilitation on unilateral neglect, hemiplegic arm functions and performance of activities of daily living.

Design:

A single-blinded randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

A convalescent hospital.

Subjects:

Sixty inpatients with left unilateral neglect after stroke.

Interventions:

Patients were randomly assigned to three groups: rTMS combined with sensory cueing, rTMS, and conventional rehabilitation alone. rTMS at 1 Hz was applied over P5 of the contralesional hemisphere while vibration cueing was emitted using a wristwatch device on the hemiplegic arm, five days per week for two weeks. The first two groups received the same dosage of conventional rehabilitation on top of their experimental interventions. Blinded assessments were administered at baseline, 2 weeks postintervention, and 6 weeks follow-up.

Main measures:

Neglect and arm motor performance.

Results:

Both rTMS combined with sensory cueing (99.6±33.0) and rTMS alone (88.2±28.7) significantly reduced unilateral neglect than conventional rehabilitation (72.7±33.1) when measured using the conventional subtests of the Behavioural Inattention Test, but the combination was better than rTMS alone. Hemiplegic arm functions and activities of daily living improved in all patients across the three groups but no significant differences were found between the groups.

Conclusion:

The combination of inhibitory P5-rTMS with sensory cueing was better than either rTMS or conventional rehabilitation alone in producing a stronger and long-lasting improvement in unilateral neglect, but the improvement was not associated with improved arm function or independence in activities of daily living.
Home exercise programmes supported by video and automated reminders compared with standard paper-based home exercise programmes in patients with stroke: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Emmerson Kellie B , Harding Katherine E , Taylor Nicholas F
Published: December 2016

Objective:

To determine whether patients with stroke receiving rehabilitation for upper limb deficits using smart technology (video and reminder functions) demonstrate greater adherence to prescribed home exercise programmes and better functional outcomes when compared with traditional paper-based exercise prescription.

Design:

Randomized controlled trial comparing upper limb home exercise programmes supported by video and automated reminders on smart technology, with standard paper-based home exercise programmes.

Setting:

A community rehabilitation programme within a large metropolitan health service.

Subjects:

Patients with stroke with upper limb deficits, referred for outpatient rehabilitation.

Interventions:

Participants were randomly assigned to the control (paper-based home exercise programme) or intervention group (home exercise programme filmed on an electronic tablet, with an automated reminder). Both groups completed their prescribed home exercise programme for four weeks.

Main measures:

The primary outcome was adherence using a self-reported log book. Secondary outcomes were change in upper limb function and patient satisfaction.

Results:

A total of 62 participants were allocated to the intervention ( n = 30) and control groups ( n = 32). There were no differences between the groups for measures of adherence (mean difference 2%, 95% CI −12 to 17) or change in the Wolf Motor Function Test log transformed time (mean difference 0.02 seconds, 95% CI −0.1 to 0.1). There were no between-group differences in how participants found instructions ( p = 0.452), whether they remembered to do their exercises ( p = 0.485), or whether they enjoyed doing their exercises ( p = 0.864).

Conclusions:

The use of smart technology was not superior to standard paper-based home exercise programmes for patients recovering from stroke. This trial design was registered prospectively with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register, ID: ACTRN 12613000786796. http://www.anzctr.org.au/trialSearch.aspx
Uncertainty analysis of residual stresses measured by slitting method in equal-channel angular rolled Al-1060 strips
Authors: Kotobi Mahdi , Honarpisheh Mohammad
Published: December 2016

Residual stresses can meaningfully influence on the operation of a part. They are almost created by all fabrication processes. In this study, slitting method was used to obtain the residual stress profile through the thickness of equal-channel angular rolled aluminum strips. Furthermore, uncertainty analysis of the measured residual stresses was performed. The measurement and model uncertainties were considered in the uncertainty analysis, and the effect of each one on the total uncertainty was investigated. Besides, to study the through-depth residual stress distribution numerically, finite element simulation of equal-channel angular rolling process in route C was done. In route C, the strip should be rotated around the longitudinal axis by 180° after each successive pass. The results showed the important role of both measurement and model uncertainties in the calculation of total uncertainty. The maximum tensile residual stresses of the control, 1-pass and 2-pass samples were 7.59, 64.4 and 85.11 MPa, respectively, and the root mean square total uncertainty of them were 1.47, 2.43 and 5.12 MPa, respectively. There was a good agreement between experimental and numerical results.
A Quasi-Experimental Examination of Telework Eligibility and Participation in the U.S. Federal Government
Authors: Lee David , Kim Sun Young
Published: December 2016

This article examines the causal effects of telework eligibility and participation on employee attitudes, including perceived fairness, job satisfaction, and intention to stay, in the U.S. federal government. Drawing on the literatures on social exchange and organizational justice, we investigate how telework eligibility and participation influence employee attitudes and whether different reasons for nonparticipation have varying impacts. Our findings show that those employees who are eligible to telework report higher levels of perceived fairness, job satisfaction, and intention to stay than do those employees who are ineligible. On the other hand, the effects of telework participation on employee attitudes depend upon the reasons why nonparticipants do not telework. Specifically, when employees do not telework because of insufficient technical or managerial support, they report significantly lower levels of perceived fairness, job satisfaction, and intention to stay than do teleworkers. However, nontelework due to job requirements or personal choice does not have significant, negative effects on work attitudes.
Clinical Value of Perfusion Abnormalities of Brain on Technetium-99m HMPAO Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography in Children With Sydenham Chorea
Authors: Giorgio Sara Maria delle Acque , Caprio Maria Grazia , Galante Flavia , Russo Giustina , Romano Alfonso , Vergara Emilia , Alessio Maria , Cuocolo Alberto
Published: December 2016

We evaluated whether perfusion brain abnormalities by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging improves diagnostic and prognostic assessment in Sydenham chorea. Twenty-three children with acute autoimmune chorea underwent technetium-99m hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime brain SPECT imaging. In 16 children, SPECT was repeated during the follow-up. A pattern of basal ganglia hyperperfusion was observed in 20 (87%) patients. In 4 of 10 patients with generalized chorea, perfusion was comparable in right and left striatum and right and left thalamus. In 13 patients with hemi-chorea and in 3 with generalized chorea, unilateral hyperperfusion was detected. Three patients with generalized chorea had normal perfusion. Tracer uptake of basal ganglia of the patients at the acute phase was higher than at the follow-up ( P < .001). SPECT seems a useful noninvasive tool in pediatric patients with Sydenham chorea to support the clinicians during the acute phase of disease and to monitor the course of autoimmune chorea.
Collecting Self-Reported Data on Dating Abuse Perpetration From a Sample of Primarily Black and Hispanic, Urban-Residing, Young Adults: A Comparison of Timeline Followback Interview and Interactive Voice Response Methods
Authors: Rothman Emily F. , Heeren Timothy , Winter Michael , Dorfman David , Baughman Allyson , Stuart Gregory
Published: December 2016

Dating abuse is a prevalent and consequential public health problem. However, relatively few studies have compared methods of collecting self-report data on dating abuse perpetration. This study compares two data collection methods—(a) the Timeline Followback (TLFB) retrospective reporting method, which makes use of a written calendar to prompt respondents’ recall, and (b) an interactive voice response (IVR) system, which is a prospective telephone-based database system that necessitates respondents calling in and entering data using their telephone keypads. We collected 84 days of data on young adult dating abuse perpetration using IVR from a total of 60 respondents. Of these respondents, 41 (68%) completed a TLFB retrospective report pertaining to the same 84-day period after that time period had ended. A greater number of more severe dating abuse perpetration events were reported via the IVR system. Participants who reported any dating abuse perpetration were more likely to report more frequent abuse perpetration via the IVR than the TLFB (i.e., may have minimized the number of times they perpetrated dating abuse on the TLFB). The TLFB method did not result in a tapering off of reported events past the first week as it has in prior studies, but the IVR method did result in a tapering off of reported events after approximately the sixth week. We conclude that using an IVR system for self-reports of dating abuse perpetration may not have substantial advantages over using a TLFB method, but researchers’ choice of mode may vary by research question, resources, sample, and setting.
Use of a Bogus Pipeline to Detect Men’s Underreporting of Sexually Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Strang Emily , Peterson Zoë D.
Published: December 2016

Researchers rely on men’s self-reports of sexually aggressive behavior to identify the prevalence and correlates of men’s perpetration (i.e., their use of verbal or physical coercion to obtain sex from a nonconsenting partner). However, results from research based on men’s self-reported sexual perpetration are suspect because men may intentionally conceal their sexually aggressive behavior. The current study used a Bogus Pipeline (BPL) methodology to determine whether young, community men ( N = 93) intentionally underreport their use of sexually aggressive strategies on two self-report measures of perpetration. Compared with men in a Standard Testing (ST) condition, men in an experimental BPL condition—who believed that the honesty of their responses was being monitored—had 6.5 times greater odds of endorsing the use of illegal sexual assault strategies on a widely used measure. Indeed, over a third of men in the BPL condition admitted to using such strategies. However, there was no significant difference in men’s reports of verbally coercive strategies in the BPL versus the ST condition on the same measure. There were also no significant differences in reporting on the other, less commonly used measure of sexual aggression as a function of condition. Based on these preliminary findings, men’s use of sexual assault strategies may be far more common than is suggested by most self-report studies. Self-reports of verbal coercion, however, may be more trustworthy.
Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Stress, and Social Support on the Health of College Students
Authors: Karatekin Canan , Ahluwalia Rohini
Published: December 2016

The goal of the study was to describe the nature of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) reported by undergraduates and to examine the effect of ACEs, perceived stress, and perceived social support on their health. Although respondents ( N = 321) had parents with relatively high levels of education and indicated generally high levels of social support, results nevertheless showed a relatively high level of mental health problems and rates of ACEs that were similar to those in the general population in the state. Those with higher levels of ACEs had greater levels of stress and lower levels of social support. ACEs, social support, and stress explained more than half the variance in mental health scores, with stress making the greatest contribution. Despite the fact that we used different measures and an independent sample, findings generally replicated a previous study. Results point to a need to increase awareness of the association between ACEs and health on college campuses, to examine the effects of ACEs in more detail, and to design ACE-informed programs for this population.
Longitudinal Relationships Between Planned Happenstance Skills and Life Adjustment and the Moderating Role of Career Barriers
Authors: Kim Boyoung , Kim So Rin , Yang Na Yeon , Yaung Huk , Ha Gyu Young , Yang Joon Young , Lee Bora , Lee Sang Min
Published: December 2016

The purpose of the present study was to examine the longitudinal relationships between planned happenstance skills (PHS) and life adjustment and to examine whether this relationship was moderated by the degree of career barriers. The participants were 307 Korean college students going through a school-to-work transition. The results showed that PHS preceded and were positively associated with life adjustment. Additionally, the association between PHS and life adjustment differed by the levels of career barriers; individuals with greater PHS were more likely to adjust well in life even when they perceived high career barriers. The findings suggest empirical support for planned happenstance theory. Implications regarding career counseling interventions for college students in a school-to-work transition are discussed.
Policy learning over a decade or more and the role of interests therein: The European liberalization policy process of Belgian network industries
Authors: Moyson Stéphane
Published: December 2016

When individual actors are involved in a policy process, do they assess and revise their policy preferences according to their interests or are they open to other forms of arguments over time? This study examines the effect of policy actors' interests on policy learning. It is based on a survey conducted in 2012 among 376 Belgian actors (from 38 organizations) involved in the European liberalization policy process of two network industries: the rail and electricity sectors. Borrowing from organizational research and behavioral economics, several hypotheses are drawn from a model of the individual shared by various policy approaches, such as the advocacy coalition framework. A “simple gain scores” approach to the measurement of policy learning is introduced. Regression analyses show that policy actors align their policy preferences with the impacts of policies on their own material well-being (personal interests) and the material prosperity of their organization (organizational interests). This tendency is independent of the importance that policy actors give to their interests in their everyday lives. This suggests that policy actors experience a sort of “interest shift” when they assess their policy preferences over time. This shift, however, exerts a limited influence on policy learning. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Dynamic behaviors of helical geared multishaft rotor systems by modal synthesis
Authors: Yang Yi , Wang Xurong , Wang Mingkun , Li Hang , Dai Yiping
Published: December 2016

A theoretical investigation of dynamic behaviors of helical geared multishaft rotor systems is performed in this paper. A modal synthesis is developed to calculate free and forced vibrations for geared rotor systems including more than two shafts and gears. Degrees of freedom can be reduced to save the computing time in this method. Results of reduced model are compared with those of full degrees of freedom model, to obtain the acceptable reduction of degrees of freedom without significant loss of accuracy in predicting free and forced vibrations. Then, with the help of this method, dynamic behaviors of helical geared multishaft rotor systems are investigated. Parametric studies are conducted to reveal the effects of several system parameters on the vibration characteristics. Results show the reliability and accuracy of the modal synthesis as well as its limitations of calculating responses due to high-frequency excitations, and provide some references to designers attempting to obtain desirable dynamic behaviors.
Sea level changes and Neolithic hunter-fisher-gatherers in the centre of Tallinn, southern coast of the Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea
Authors: Muru Merle , Rosentau Alar , Kriiska Aivar , Lõugas Lembi , Kadakas Ulla , Vassiljev Jüri , Saarse Leili , Aunap Raivo , Küttim Liisa , Puusepp Liisa , Kihno Kersti
Published: December 2016

Relative sea level (RSL) changes and the palaeogeography of a Neolithic hunter-fisher-gatherer settlement site on the former shore of the Gulf of Finland in the city centre of Tallinn were reconstructed by implementing GIS in landscape modelling based on archaeological, sedimentary and shore displacement data. AMS radiocarbon dating of mammal bones from the cultural layer suggests the existence of the hunter-fisher-gatherer settlement around 5.1–4.8 cal. ka BP on a seaward inclining sandy beach of Tallinn palaeo-bay c. 100 m from the Litorina Sea shoreline and at about 2.4 m above the coeval sea level. The shoreline passed the study site at about 5.8 cal. ka BP and retreated towards northeast with an average speed of 13 m per century, while the RSL lowered by c. 2.5 mm annually. Combining radiocarbon dates of terrestrial and marine mammal bones from the Neolithic cultural layer, a marine reservoir effect of 350 14C years for the brackish-water Baltic Sea was calculated. By using high-resolution archaeological data in combination with RSL and other geological proxies, we demonstrate new possibilities to reconstruct the palaeoenvironment of deeply buried coastal settlement sites and to predict a possible continuation of the cultural layer in heavily built-up areas.
A speleothem-based mid-Holocene precipitation reconstruction for West-Central Florida
Authors: Pollock Anna L , van Beynen Philip E , DeLong Kristine L , Polyak Victor , Asmerom Yemane
Published: December 2016

The mid-Holocene was the warmest segment of the current interglacial and possessed a weak latitudinal temperature gradient, which impacted climate teleconnections and thus precipitation variability. Our window into the mid-Holocene climate is a high-resolution (near annual) stalagmite stable isotope-based paleoprecipitation record from Brown’s Cave in West-Central Florida. The oxygen isotopic (δ18O) time series is tied to a uranium-series (U-series) chronology that covers a 2000-year period from 6.6 to 4.6 ka. We compared our reconstruction with another speleothem δ18O-derived precipitation record near our study area that spans the last 1600 years. That comparison shows that the mid-Holocene was drier than the last 1.6 millennia. We posit the cause of this aridity was a westward expansion of the North Atlantic Subtropical High (NASH) coupled with changes in the planetary boundary layer in the Gulf of Mexico. Time-series analysis of our oxygen isotopic record found little evidence of any teleconnections originating from the North Atlantic including the North Atlantic Oscillation during the mid-Holocene. However, there is some indication of a weak, quasi-persistent oscillation within the temporal periodicity of the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability.
Effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on acrylamide-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in PC12 cells
Authors: He Y , Tan D , Mi Y , Bai B , Jiang D , Zhou X , Ji S
Published: December 2016

Acrylamide (ACR) is a chemical intermediate utilized in industry. ACR is also formed during heating of foods containing carbohydrates and amino acids. Therefore, humans are widely exposed to ACR, and ACR neurotoxicity in humans is a significant public health issue attracting wide attention. In this study, we investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant polyphenolic compound in green tea, in PC12 cells treated with ACR. ACR-treated PC12 cells pretreated with various concentrations of EGCG (2.5, 5 and 10 μM) for 24 h had increased viability and acetylcholinesterase activity and reduced apoptosis and necrosis compared to cells exposed to ACR alone. EGCG reduced the expression of bax mRNA, decreased cytochrome c release, reduced intracellular calcium levels, inactivated caspase 3 and increased mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting that EGCG prevents ACR-induced apoptosis through a mitochondrial-mediated pathway. In addition, EGCG inhibited the formation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation while enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Our results indicate that pretreatment of PC12 cells with EGCG attenuates ACR-induced apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, drinking green tea may reduce nerve injury induced by ACR.
Maximizing the usefulness of statistical classifiers for two populations with illustrative applications
Authors: Jeske Daniel R , Smith Steven
Published: December 2016

The usefulness of two-class statistical classifiers is limited when one or both of the conditional misclassification rates is unacceptably high. Incorporating a neutral zone region into the classifier provides a mechanism to refer ambiguous cases to follow-up where additional information might be obtained to clarify the classification decision. Through the use of the neutral zone region, the conditional misclassification rates can be controlled and the classifier becomes useful. Three real-life examples, including applications to prostate cancer and kidney dysfunction following heart surgery, are used to illustrate how neutral zone regions can extract utility from disappointing classifiers that might otherwise be abandoned.
An optimal Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test of mortality and a continuous outcome
Authors: Matsouaka Roland A , Singhal Aneesh B , Betensky Rebecca A
Published: December 2016

We consider a two-group randomized clinical trial, where mortality affects the assessment of a follow-up continuous outcome. Using the worst-rank composite endpoint, we develop a weighted Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test statistic to analyze the data. We determine the optimal weights for the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test statistic that maximize its power. We derive a formula for its power and demonstrate its accuracy in simulations. Finally, we apply the method to data from an acute ischemic stroke clinical trial of normobaric oxygen therapy.
A more efficient three-arm non-inferiority test based on pooled estimators of the homogeneous variance
Authors: Lu Hezhi , Jin Hua , Zeng Weixiong
Published: December 2016

Hida and Tango established a statistical testing framework for the three-arm non-inferiority trial including a placebo with a pre-specified non-inferiority margin to overcome the shortcomings of traditional two-arm non-inferiority trials (such as having to choose the non-inferiority margin). In this paper, we propose a new method that improves their approach with respect to two aspects. We construct our testing statistics based on the best unbiased pooled estimators of the homogeneous variance; and we use the principle of intersection-union tests to determine the rejection rule. We theoretically prove that our test is better than that of Hida and Tango for large sample sizes. Furthermore, when that sample size was small or moderate, our simulation studies showed that our approach performed better than Hida and Tango’s. Although both controlled the type I error rate, their test was more conservative and the statistical power of our test was higher.
Why Certain Gifts Are Great to Give but Not to Get
Authors: Galak Jeff , Givi Julian , Williams Elanor F.
Published: December 2016

We propose that many giver-recipient discrepancies in the gift-giving literature can be explained, at least partially, by the notion that when evaluating the quality of a gift, givers primarily focus on the moment of exchange, whereas recipients primarily focus on how valuable a gift will be once owned. In this review, we summarize the variety of errors givers make and, more critically, position these errors within our newly developed framework. We hope this framework will provide a single point of reference for those interested in gift giving and spur novel predictions about the causes and consequences of miscalibrated gift choice.
Understanding Dynamic Transactions Between Personality Traits and Partner Relationships
Authors: Mund Marcus , Finn Christine , Hagemeyer Birk , Neyer Franz J.
Published: December 2016

When examining the associations between personality traits and partner relationships, the majority of studies have focused on the one-way effects of personality traits on the quality and stability of relationships. Recent work, however, has shown that relationships likewise retroact on personality traits and their development. Apart from these mutual influences, recent studies have also emphasized the necessity of considering both members of a couple in order to understand how their personalities and perceptions of the relationship interact. We review the status quo of research on personality-relationship transactions and outline suggestions for future research that move the focus from predicting the interplay between the two domains to explaining how personality traits and partner relationships dynamically interact. Specifically, we propose the need for (a) a functional perspective on personality traits, (b) a differentiated view of behavior, and (c) acknowledgment of the dynamic nature of traits and relationships in appropriate analysis models.
What a Simple Letter-Detection Task Can Tell Us About Cognitive Processes in Reading
Authors: Klein Raymond M. , Saint-Aubin Jean
Published: December 2016

Understanding reading is a central issue for psychology, with major societal implications. Over the past five decades, a simple letter-detection task has been used as a window on the psycholinguistic processes involved in reading. When readers are asked to read a text for comprehension while marking with a pencil all instances of a target letter, they miss some of the letters in a systematic way known as the missing-letter effect. In the current article, we review evidence from studies that have emphasized neuroimaging, eye movement, rapid serial visual presentation, and auditory passages. As we review, the missing-letter effect captures a wide variety of cognitive processes, including lexical activation, attention, and extraction of phrase structure. To account for the large set of findings generated by studies of the missing-letter effect, we advanced an attentional-disengagement model that is rooted in how attention is allocated to and disengaged from lexical items during reading, which we have recently shown applies equally to listening.
Initiation of Addiction Treatment and Access to Services: Young Adults’ Accounts of Their Help-Seeking Experiences
Authors: Wagner Vincent , Bertrand Karine , Flores-Aranda Jorge , Acier Didier , Brunelle Natacha , Landry Michel , Brochu Serge
Published: December 2016

Substance addiction in young adults is particularly problematic. Yet, much remain at stake in understanding the specifics of this population’s access to services. The objective of this study is to explore young adults’ initiation of substance misuse treatment. Our study sample was composed of 35 individuals aged 18 to 30 with problematic psychoactive substance use who have been identified in criminal courts, hospital emergency departments, and Health and Social Services Centers in Québec (Canada). A thematic analysis was performed on the 62 semi-structured interviews conducted with participants. Three components emerged. First, personal elements—expectations, individual motivations, perceptions of use, and capacity to control it—influence initiation of substance misuse treatment. Second, family and peers have noticeable influences. Finally, system characteristics and prior care experiences also shape the process. Consideration should be given to tailor interventions that can reach young adults and encourage them to initiate appropriate care.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Adverse Effects of TNFα Inhibitors in a Cohort of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: García-Lagunar María Henar , Gutiérrez-Cívicos María Rocío , García-Simón María Sergia , Conesa-Zamora Pablo , Jimenez-Santos Enrique , Cano-Vivar Pedro , García-Márquez Andrés , Muñoz-García Iris , Viney Alice Charlotte
Published: December 2016

Background: The introduction of anti–tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNFα) drugs has improved the clinical outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). However, these drugs may cause adverse effects that motivate a change in or discontinuation of the treatment. Objective: To evaluate the causes of discontinuation or changes in the dosage regimen in a cohort of patients with RA and AS treated with infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, and golimumab under clinical practice conditions. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study that included patients with RA or AS treated with anti-TNFα drugs between 2008 and 2013. Changes in the dosage regimen, reasons for treatment discontinuation, and adverse effects were recorded and analyzed. Time to discontinuation was estimated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Results: A total of 123 patients with RA and 93 patients with AS were treated with anti-TNFα therapy. During the study, 55.3% of RA patients and 41.7% of AS patients had stopped the treatment. The most frequent changes were modifications in the dosing, and the most frequent adverse effects were reactions after the infusion or injection (53.8% and 66.7% in RA and AS, respectively). Drug survival of etanercept in RA (67.9%) is greater than for adalimumab and infliximab, whereas drug survival of infliximab in AS (70.0%) is greater than for etanercept and adalimumab at 5 years, although there were no significant differences ( P = 0.098 in RA and 0.194 in AS). Conclusions: The main cause of discontinuation of anti-TNFα is therapeutic failure in both diseases. Etanercept and infliximab have the best survival rates in RA and AS, respectively.