bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Extent of Neck Dissection Among Patients Who Receive Adjuvant Radiotherapy for HNSCC and Its Effect on Disease-Specific and Overall Survival
Authors: Aboelkheir Usama M. , Iovoli Austin J. , Platek Alexis J. , Wang Chong , Hermann Gregory M. , Magner William J. , Platek Mary E. , Singh Anurag K. , Gupta Vishal , Hicks Wesley L. , Arshad Hassan
Published: April 2019

The study objective was to assess if the extent of neck dissection among patients who receive adjuvant radiotherapy affects regional recurrence and survival. This was a retrospective study of patients who had clinical metastatic mucosal primary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) to cervical lymph nodes done at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York from 2004 to 2015. Patients with previous radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy were excluded. All patients had surgery to the primary tumor and the neck followed by adjuvant (chemo) radiation. Patients have been divided into 2 groups according to type of neck dissection as either selective neck dissection (SND) or comprehensive neck dissection (CND). The extent of neck dissection was determined by surgeon preference. All patients received postoperative radiotherapy to the primary tumor bed and to the neck with or without chemotherapy. Main outcomes were measured in regional recurrence and overall survival. In our study, 74 patients were included. Among the 2 groups of patients, 3-year outcomes for regional recurrence occurred in 4 (7.1%) of 56 patients in the SND group and 2 (11.1%) of 18 patients in the CND group. Overall survival was 29 (51.8%) of 56 patients in the SND group and 11 (61.1%) of 18 patients in the CND group ( P = .497). Among patients who died in each cohort, disease-specific death was 20 (74.1%) of 27 patients in the SND group and 5 (71.4%) of 7 patients in the CND group ( P = .79).The overall and disease-specific survival differences between the SND and CND cohorts were not statistically significant. In conclusion, SND, combined with proper adjuvant treatment, achieved regional control and survival rates comparable to CND.
Nurses’ Generational Differences Related to Workplace and Leadership in Two European Countries
Authors: Stevanin Simone , Voutilainen Ari , Bressan Valentina , Vehviläinen-Julkunen Katri , Rosolen Valentina , Kvist Tarja
Published: April 2019

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample ( N = 3,093) of Finnish and Italian registered nurses to identify differences related to generation, country, gender, and educational level in their perceptions and opinions about workplace-related dimensions of nursing and their managers’ leadership practices. The Multidimensional Nursing Generations Questionnaire (MNGQ) and two subscales of the Transformational Leadership Scale (TLS), “Feedback and Rewards” and “Professional Development,” were used as survey tools. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Statistically significant ( p < .05) generational and country differences emerged in the MNGQ components “Conflicts between generations,” “Patient safety view,” “Relationships between generations,” “Working as a multigenerational team,” “Orientation to change,” “Intention to leave,” and “Flexibility and availability.” Generational and country differences also emerged for the two TLS subscales. Generational differences existed between registered nurses of different generations and countries, and should be considered in leading multigenerational nurses’ workforces.
Perceptions of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Minority Adolescents About Labels
Authors: Porta Carolyn M. , Gower Amy L. , Brown Camille , Wood Brittany , Eisenberg Marla E.
Published: April 2019

Young peoples’ acceptance and use of nontraditional, descriptive identity labels (e.g., pansexual, genderqueer) require nurses to consider moving beyond use of traditional terms (e.g., gay, transgender). This mixed methods study explores (a) labels used by sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) minority youth, (b) their expressed importance and meaning of these labels, and (c) differences in label usage. Sixty-six SOGI minority adolescents in British Columbia, Minnesota, and Massachusetts (mean age = 16.6) participated in “go-along” interviews; during interviews, 42 (63.6%) commented on labels. Chi-square and t tests were used to compare traditional versus nontraditional labels across participant demographic categories. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify representative themes. Approximately, 1/3 of participants used nontraditional sexual orientation identity labels; this finding was associated with a trans identity and nontraditional gender labels. Using terminology that is meaningful and representative to the youth themselves has potential to facilitate representative research and welcoming environments in practice.
WITHDRAWN—Administrative Duplicate Publication: Communicating about bullying: Examining disclosure among gifted students
Authors: Jumper Rachel Leah
Published: April 2019

Jumper RL (2019) Communicating about bullying: Examining disclosure among gifted students. Gifted Education International. Epub ahead of print: 03 April 2019.

Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher.

Due to an administrative error, this article was accidentally published twice Online First with different DOI.

The correct and citable version of the article remains:

Jumper RL (2019) Communicating about bullying: Examining disclosure among gifted students. Gifted Education International 35(2): 110-120. DOI: 10.1177/0261429418824113
Farmers’ perception of the quality of mobile-based extension services in egypt: A comparison between public and private provision
Authors: Kassem Hazem S , Shabana Rasha M , Ghoneim Yomna A , Alotaibi Bader M
Published: April 2019

During the last 10 years, different initiatives have been implemented to provide mobile-based extension services for the agricultural sector in Egypt. The current study compared the quality of agricultural extension messages between public and private providers. A simple random sample of 120 farmers was selected representing 7% of the total farmers registered in the databases of Ministry of Agriculture (public services) and Shoura company (private services). Farmers assessed a sample of 10 messages delivered by both providers in terms of six indicators namely (1) access, (2) utilization, (3) timeliness, (4) trust, (5) satisfaction, and (6) sharing information with other farmers. The findings revealed the lack of access to messages by the farmers in the two services. However, more than 50% had utilized the majority of messages (in case of access). The study also showed significant differences between perception of farmers to quality attributes in public and private services (Access 6.77, 0.01; Utilization 8.44, 0.004; Timeliness 8.55, 0.002; Satisfaction 8.88, 0.001; information sharing 7.62, 0.009) except for trust (1.11, 0.4). Findings provide practical implications to support mobile-based extension services to enable sharing information and link farmers with other actors in the agricultural value chain.
Engaging Disadvantaged Communities in Targeting Tobacco-Related Health Disparities and Other Health Inequities
Authors: Subica Andrew M. , Douglas Jason A.
Published: April 2019

Tobacco-related health disparities (TRHD) (e.g., respiratory disease, cancer) have been repeatedly shown to disproportionately affect individuals living in disadvantaged communities. In our recent community-guided geospatial study, we found evidence for a previously unrecognized TRHD involving tobacco shops, which were associated with increased crime and violence in South Los Angeles: a large, disadvantaged urban community. Our findings revealed tobacco shops may directly endanger the health of community residents in South Los Angeles by negatively shaping neighborhood crime and violence. In this commentary, we explore reasons why tobacco shops may perpetuate TRHDs and other health disparities in disadvantaged communities. Using our study as a case example, we further describe how community-partnered research grounded in community-based participatory research principles may empower stakeholders in disadvantaged communities to generate positive downstream outcomes such as tobacco-related policy changes.
Differential diagnosis of hepatic cancerous nodules and cirrhosis nodules by spectral CT imaging: a feasibility study
Authors: Gao Lu , Lv Yi , Jin Yingying , Han Fang , Yao Zhenwei , Yang Jian , Zhang Jiawen
Published: April 2019

Background

It is difficult to distinguish atypical cancerous nodule from cirrhosis nodule.

Purpose

To investigate the value of spectral computed tomography (CT) imaging parameters in differentiating hepatic cancerous nodules from cirrhosis nodules.

Material and Methods

Forty-six patients with hepatic nodules underwent contrast-enhanced CT scans in spectral mode. Monochromatic CT images and iodine/water-based material-decomposition images were synthesized. CT values were measured at 70 keV monochromatic images and the difference of CT value in the arterial phase (AP) and delayed phase (DP) (△CT1); AP and portal venous phase (PP) (△CT2) were calculated. Normalized to the iodine concentration in the aorta (NIC), lesion to normal liver parenchyma iodine concentration ratio (LNR) was calculated. Slope of the spectral HU curve (λHU) was obtained. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for consistency test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were also generated.

Results

There were 23 hepatic cancerous nodules and 23 cirrhosis nodules. All gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) parameters had significantly larger value in cancerous nodules than in cirrhosis nodules, except NIC in DP. The LNR in AP had the largest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.96, indicating its highest ability to differentiate hepatic cancerous nodules from cirrhosis nodules. Using 1.99 as a threshold value for LNR in AP we could obtain sensitivity of 95.65% and specificity of 91.30%.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated in this feasibility study that spectral CT imaging provides multiple quantitative parameters which may be used to help differentiating hepatic cancerous nodules from cirrhosis nodules.
Sex Worker Homicide Series: Profiling the Crime Scene
Authors: Sorochinski Marina , Salfati C. Gabrielle
Published: April 2019

Contrary to popular misconceptions, offenders who kill sex workers as part of their series exhibit substantial variability in their victim selection and behavioral patterns, thus creating additional issues for the investigation of these crimes. This article first aims to outline differences in the demographics of crime scene actions present in homicide series with exclusively sex worker victims and series that includes both sex worker and non–sex worker victims, with the aim of understanding the crime scene aetiology of these two different types of series. Second, the research aims to determine between-series differences of victimology as well as crime scene action between sex worker series and mixed-victim series. Third, the research focuses on mixed-victim series and aims to determine the within-series similarities of victimology and crime scene actions, that is, what factors link sex worker victims and non–sex worker victims in the same series. Data were collected through a large-scale review of international media sources to identify solved serial homicide cases that have included at least one sex worker. Of the 83 series looked at, 44 (53%) included sex worker victims only, and 39 (47%) of the series included both sex worker and non–sex worker victims. The findings highlight the challenges that these types of crime present for investigation and the implications they have on current crime analysis research and practice, and results are discussed in line with theoretical and psychological issues relating to understanding differentiation and similarity, as well as investigative implications relating to linkage blindness and linking of serial crimes.
Emmer Wheat and Barley Prices in the Late New Kingdom: A Ramessid Price Paradox Resolved
Authors: van Pelt W. Paul , Heinrich Frits
Published: April 2019

This brief contribution uses archaeobotanical data to quantify the edible weight and energetic value of a khar of emmer wheat and a khar of barley. It then combines these data with emmer and barley prices from late New Kingdom Deir el-Medina to argue that, contrary to conventional wisdom, emmer wheat was more expensive per calorie than barley during most of this period. It furthermore argues that emmer wheat and barley were delivered to the workers in almost equal quantities.
The usefulness of the Evaluation of Social Interaction in a mother and baby mental health unit
Authors: Williams Belinda , Chard Gill
Published: April 2019

Statement of context: Perinatal services treat mothers with mental health problems while supporting and enabling mother–infant bonding and attachment alongside the occupational demands of safe and effective parenting.

Critical reflection on practice: Robust assessment and evidence-based interventions appropriate to this setting are required, but the efficacy of these for mothers diagnosed with mental health problems in the perinatal period is unknown. The Evaluation of Social Interaction was introduced into a mother and baby mental health unit to address this need.

Implications for practice: The Evaluation of Social Interaction provided specific information on social interaction skills that supported and limited competent social interactions necessary for mothering, enabling mothers to understand strengths and limitations when interacting with their babies and other key social partners during parenting occupations.
Freight Performance Measurement in FAST Act-Mandated State Freight Plans
Authors: BouMjahed Lama , Schofer Joseph L.
Published: April 2019

This paper reviews treatment of performance measures in state freight plans (SFPs) mandated under the FAST Act. This responds to the growing interest in freight performance measurement in government and industry, including concern for assuring supply chain performance to support the economy. To accomplish this, we collected 42 SFPs from state departments of transportation (DOT) websites and reviewed their treatment of freight performance measures in terms of describing and quantifying performance, granularity, multimodality, use of data and analytic methods, treatment of supply chains, and engagement of stakeholders through outreach. This assessment identified positive trends in freight planning practices such as addressing performance and supply chains in broad terms, identifying specific supply chains important to the state, forming freight advisory committees, and engaging them in the development of the freight plans. The novelty of the FAST Act mandate leaves room for further development of performance measurement in freight planning. Few states reached beyond the most readily available, free data, measuring what is most easily measured, and focusing on the highway system. There was limited consideration of supply chain performance. A list of good practices is offered, including selecting measures that are easily understood by key stakeholders, supported by readily available data, responsive to state needs and conditions, covering the most important modes in the state, timely, and appropriately granular to support specific choices.
Demonstrating an Empirical Tool to Predict Fleet-Wide Heavy-Duty Vehicle Fuel-Saving Benefits from Low Rolling Resistance Tires
Authors: Gbologah Franklin E. , Li Hanyan , Rodgers Michael O.
Published: April 2019

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has identified the use of low rolling resistance (LRR) tires as an effective fuel-saving technology for heavy-duty vehicles (HDV). However, adoption of LRR tires has been less than desired because of potential performance uncertainties under real-world operating conditions. Also, previous decision-support tools developed to help stakeholders have had limited accuracy because of inherent transient speed profiles in real-world operating cycles. This study develops a tool to predict HDV fleet-wide fuel saving from LRR tires. The tool uses empirical models to estimate the fuel-saving benefits of LRR tires as a function of vehicle characteristics, operating cycles, and route characteristics. To facilitate ease-of-use by stakeholders, the empirical models have been transformed into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet tool. The empirical models were developed with data generated by simulating real-world HDV operating cycles with Autonomie, an advanced model for automotive control-system design, and simulating vehicle energy consumption and performance. Validation analysis of the tool shows an average error of less than 6.5%. Unlike previous tools, the developed tool is applicable to both stabilized and transient speed operations. It allows users to customize it to their specific fleet and operating conditions. This is significant and it is envisaged that the tool will facilitate more investment decisions by fleet operators, as well as help regulatory agencies and policy analysts design key policy incentives.
Exploring the Effects of Vehicular and Operational Characteristics on Bus Roadworthiness: An Application of the Multilevel Modeling Approach
Authors: Qiu Jianrong , Logan David B. , Oxley Jennifer , Lowe Christopher
Published: April 2019

This paper examines the effects of vehicular and operational characteristics on bus roadworthiness. The analysis was based on annual bus inspection data in Victoria, Australia, between 2014 and 2017, consisting of 17,630 inspections of 6,447 vehicles run by 252 operators. A multilevel modeling approach was employed to account for the hierarchical data structure where inspections are nested within vehicles and vehicles within operators. The results offered insights into the effects on bus roadworthiness of characteristics attributable to inspections, vehicles, and operators. The probability of failing an inspection was found to be positively associated with vehicle age and odometer reading. Vehicle make played an important role in roadworthiness outcome, with the performance of different makes varying significantly. Small operators carried the highest risk of failure and large operators the lowest, irrespective of the location of operation. The multilevel analysis revealed that 28.9% of the variation in inspection outcomes occurred across operators and 5.2% across vehicles, which verified the presence of the hierarchical structure. The findings from this study provide safety regulators with solid research evidence to formulate policies aimed at enhancing bus roadworthiness.
Effect of Air-Conditioning on Light Duty Gasoline Vehicles Fuel Economy
Authors: Khan Tanzila , Frey H. Christopher
Published: April 2019

With more stringent U.S. fuel economy (FE) standards, the effect of auxiliary devices such as air-conditioning (AC) have received increased attention. AC is the largest auxiliary engine load for light duty gasoline vehicles (LDGVs). However, there are few data regarding the effect of AC operation on FE for LDGVs based on real-world measurements, especially for recent model year vehicles. The Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator (MOVES) is a regulatory model for estimating on-road vehicle energy-use and emissions. MOVES adjusts vehicle energy-use rates for AC effects. However, MOVES-predicted FE with AC has not been evaluated based on empirical measurements. The research objectives are to quantify the LDGVs FE penalty from AC and assess the accuracy of MOVES2014a-predicted FE with AC. The AC effect on real-world fleet-average FE was quantified based on 78 AC-off vehicles versus 55 AC-on vehicles, measured with onboard instruments on defined study routes. MOVES2014a-based FE penalty from AC was evaluated based on real-world estimates and chassis dynamometer-based FE test results used for FE ratings. The real-world FE penalty ranges between 1.3% and 7.5% among a wide range of driving cycles. Fuel consumption at idle is 13% higher with AC on. MOVES underestimates the real-world FE with AC by 6%, on average. MOVES overestimates the AC effect on cycle-average FE ranging between 13.5% and 18.5% for real-world and MOVES default cycles, and between 11.1% and 14.5% for standard cycles.
Analytical Model for Optimal Departure Time Choice with Perception Errors for Planners
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Wang Yunpeng , Lu Guangquan , Liu Miaomiao
Published: April 2019

An extension of a recent framework for analyzing scheduling disutility with perception errors is derived. In such framework, the traveler has [Formula: see text] scheduling preferences. Although the actual travel time of travelers is influenced by departure time, travelers make a route-choice decision on the basis of their perceived travel time. Thus, we mainly investigate the effects of perception errors on the optimal departure time. The optimal departure time and expected disutility are obtained on the basis of the proposed scheduling disutility model with perception errors. The inverse function curve of a standardized normal distribution is introduced to geometrically analyze the positive correlation between perception errors and optimal departure time. Our empirical example further illustrates that departure time as an endogenous variable affects the expectation and variance of perceived travel time and implies that perception errors are related to departure time. The linear relationship between the mean and variance of perceived travel time and the departure time is analyzed through an empirical illustration. The expected optimal disutility and departure time are derived, provided that the mean and variance of perception errors and departure time satisfy linear dependence. Finally, the results of the analysis of scheduling services with standardized normal distributions agree with the theoretical results and linear assumption in this study.
Enriching Travel Demand Forecasting Models with a Household Typology
Authors: Fabre Léa , Morency Catherine
Published: April 2019

In the Québec province, in Canada, travel demand forecasting relies mainly on individual characteristics, whereas it appears that individual mobility behaviors also significantly depend on the attributes of relatives and people who live in the same household. This paper aims to better understand the interactions between the household structure and individual mobility behavior, as well as the effects of the age and life cycle of individuals and their relatives on individual trips. Considering that personal mobility is dependent on household attributes, a household typology is proposed to be included in the travel demand forecasting approach, which is initiated with large-scale household travel surveys. An allocation model of the people to a household type completes the process, so that in the future, transport demand could be predicted considering the person herself as well as her household type.
Automated Data Collection and Safety Analysis at Intersections Based on a Novel Video Processing System
Authors: Zhang Qiuchen , Yang Zhen , Sun Dazhi
Published: April 2019

A novel video-based system is presented which collects trajectories and motion parameters of all objects at intersections. First, a modified ViBe method is used to extract the foreground of moving objects. Then, an object-point-contour matching approach is developed for pairing, tracking, and generating trajectories. Finally, raw trajectories are corrected through post-processing and motion parameters are estimated after object classification. This system demonstrates better performance while tracking tardy and shadowed objects compared with previous studies. The accuracies of 86% and 91% are obtained for traffic counts and velocity validation, respectively. This paper also presents a sample safety analysis using traffic conflict technology to demonstrate the possible implementation for traffic management and safety analysis.
Success, Needs and Decency: For Marysia Márkus
Authors: Grumley John
Published: April 2019

In the following paper I will analyse three key themes characteristic of the life and work of Marisha Márkus. This paper was originally read for a conference on her work at the time of her farewell from the University of New South Wales in 2002. Success, Needs and Decency are signature themes that percolate through her work. Under the theme of success I turn to central ideas in her early sociology of women and to the meaning of success in the world of the life of women. This theme has a particular existential theme for Marisha, who nursed her eldest son Gyuri for the last 30 years of her life. The concept of radical needs was a central concept of the work of the Budapest School. Marisha’s relatively less well-known interpretation of needs is arguably the most fully democratic reading of this theme that came to be better known in the work of Agnes Heller. I finally turn to the concept of decency, which for Márkus adds value to the key ideal of civil society that became so important in the transition of so-called socialist societies during the collapse of the communist regimes in the Eastern bloc.
Numerical simulation of hail impact response of hybrid corrugated core sandwich panels
Authors: Dolati SH , Rezaeepazhand J , Shariati M
Published: April 2019

The impact strength, energy absorption, and failure modes of hybrid sandwich panels with corrugated aluminum core and laminated composite face-sheets are investigated. Numerical simulation of hail impact of hybrid sandwich panels is presented using LS-DYNA software. The effects of hail projectile shape, face-sheet stacking sequences, and reinforcement type on the impact response of sandwich panels are investigated. The standard test specimens of the composite face-sheets are manufactured and experimentally evaluated to obtain required mechanical properties of the lamina for hail impact simulation. The results presented herein revealed that [Formula: see text] laminated composite face-sheets achieved the lowest damage. The hail projectile with sharper nose created higher damage on hybrid sandwich panels. The glass/epoxy face-sheets of corrugated core hybrid sandwich panel presented a significant improvement in impact response and failure modes compare to carbon/epoxy.
User interactivity in online newspapers: Exploring the relationship between content features and user response
Authors: Riskos Kyriakos , Dekoulou Paraskevi , Tsourvakas George
Published: April 2019

This study content analyzed 1,050 online news articles, coming from five Greek online-only newspapers. Results indicate that hard content and news about global and political issues elicit more comments and replies. Readers share to their personal profiles on social networks more online articles about culture and articles that include videos and make more comments and replies on articles that contain hyperlinks. An in-depth analysis of articles about politics and global issues shows that articles about politics that contain infographics attract more comments and replies. The importance of interactivity for online news is highlighted.
Coercive Control, Stalking, and Guns: Modeling Service Professionals’ Perceived Risk of Potentially Fatal Intimate Partner Gun Violence
Authors: Lynch Kellie R. , Jackson Dylan B. , Logan TK
Published: April 2019

Intimate partner homicides often involve coercive control prior to the murder while stalking following separation has been associated with control within the relationship as well as with lethal violence. The goal of the present study was to investigate how rural and urban community professionals who encounter intimate partner violence (IPV) victims perceive potential risk factors for intimate partner homicide related to firearms and coercive control. Criminal justice and victim service professionals ( N = 133) from one urban and four rural communities participated in structured key informant interviews. A purposeful sampling procedure was employed to target professionals with expertise in domestic violence and/or firearms, followed by snowball sampling to maximize the response rate. The only risk factor that was directly associated with perceived risk of potentially fatal intimate partner gun violence was the perceived risk of an abuser threatening a victim with a gun. However, coercive control, separation, and stalking all mediated the relationship between the perceived risk of an abuser’s access to a gun and the perceived risk of an abuser threatening the victim with a gun. These results highlight the importance of controlling behavior following separation for risk assessment and that participants in the present study were aware of the potentially dangerous ramifications of such nonphysically violent risk factors for the risk of injury or death by a firearm at the hands of an intimate partner.
“I Could Feel It!”: A Qualitative Study on How Users of Complementary Medicine Experience and Form Knowledge About Treatments
Authors: Danell Jenny-Ann Brodin
Published: April 2019

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine how users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) experience various forms of treatments, form knowledge about them, and understand the boundaries between CAM and conventional health care. Method: Semistructured qualitative interviews, with 10 CAM users in Sweden, analyzed with qualitative content analysis and quantitative network analysis, and subsequent network visualizations. Findings and Conclusion: The main findings stressed the importance to CAM users of bodies and physical experiences, both in experiencing and forming knowledge about treatments. Physical experience was often contrasted with theoretical understanding. Another key finding was that the CAM users seemed to set up different standards for conventional and public health care and CAM. Although scientific explanations were considered as generally important for legitimacy, and conventional health care was expected to be evidence based, they were less important to personal use and in the use of CAM. In these cases, firsthand experience of positive effects were decisive.
Management Millennialism: Designing the New Generation of Employee
Authors: Williams Glynne
Published: April 2019

The idea that society can be divided into discrete generations, each with its own essential characteristics, is treated with caution in sociology, but has had considerable influence among human resource management writers and practitioners. ‘Millennials’ – today’s young adults – are said to bring unique attributes to the workplace that may fit uneasily with current management practice. Given the well-documented weakness of generational categories, both in analysis and practice, this article asks how the archetype of the Millennial has taken such a hold. By focusing on recruitment and training within a large company, the article argues that the idea of the Millennial has been validated by repetition and imitation, but that it also serves the more rational purpose of respecifying performance criteria. The Millennial has been constructed as a ‘challenge’, but specifically as a challenge to poor management.
Using importance–performance analysis to bridge the information gap between industry and higher education
Authors: Wohlfart Olivia , Hovemann Gregor
Published: April 2019

The goal of this viewpoint article is to introduce, critically analyse and further develop importance–performance analysis (IPA) as a framework through which strategic management recommendations can be extracted for higher education institutions. The article introduces a new method of combining the perspectives of two significant groups to bridge the information gap between industry and higher education by exploring the results of two differing IPA variants from the context of sport management. The first IPA matches the importance and performance of future competencies based on statements solely derived from the labour market. The second explores the same importance measures in comparison to performance measures derived from current graduates. The authors discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each analysis and recommend the use of this framework in the effort to decrease the existing information asymmetry between industry and higher education.
Enhancing mode I and II interlaminar fracture toughness of carbon fiber-filled epoxy-based composites using both rice husk silica and silk fibroin electrospun nanofibers
Authors: Bach Quang-Vu , Vu Cuong Manh , Vu Huong Thi , Nguyen Dinh Duc
Published: April 2019

In this study, we used both silk fibroin nanofibers (nSFs) and rice husk silica nanoparticles as epoxy (EP) resin reinforcement materials to improve the modes I and II interlaminar fracture toughness of EP-filled carbon fiber-based (CF/EP) composites. The nSFs were obtained by electrospinning, while the rice husk silica nanoparticles were obtained via acidic and thermal treatments. The results showed that the interfacial shear strength, GIC, and GIIC of the CF/EP composites improved by 25, 36, and 30%, respectively, by adding 0.2 wt% nSF and 20 wt% silica nanoparticles.
Modified analytical method to calculate the assembly and separation forces of cantilever hook-type snap-fit
Authors: Mose Bruno Robert , Son In-Seo , Bae Joon-Woo , Ann Hong-Geul , Lee Choon Yeol , Shin Dong-Kil
Published: April 2019

In this study, a new analytical method to calculate the assembly force and separation force of cantilever hook type snap-fit was proposed. Finite element analysis and experimental measurement were performed to verify the new approach. It was found out that the conventional analytical method had a few limitations. The solution was only applicable when the retention face angle was small, and there existed a critical value of retention face angle where separation force unreasonably decreased with increase in deflection. The new approach considered large deflection of retention feature and resultant moment term in addition to the previous method, and the solution was obtained explicitly. The new analytical solution could be applied to large face angles without any divergence, and showed good agreement with finite element analysis results. When the face angle was relatively small, both conventional method and new method showed reasonable results; however, when the angle was large, only the new analytical method showed reasonable results. Experimental investigations of forces during assembly and separation showed that the measured forces were much smaller than the predicted values by analytical methods and finite element analysis. The forces were strongly dependent on the rigidity of the mating part and the magnitude of radius at the edges of beam and mating parts. It was found from experiment that the separation force nonlinearly increased as clearance decreased.
Lightweight and high-strength optimization design for a fully parametric working attachment of a hydraulic excavator based on limiting theoretical digging capability model
Authors: Zou Zhihong , Chen Jin , Pang Xiaoping
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a methodology for the optimization design of a fully parametric working attachment of a hydraulic excavator with the weight reduction and maximum stress minimization as the design objectives. A novel 3D force output model named limiting theoretical digging capability model is proposed to completely and accurately calculate the maximum force and moment an excavator can apply in the preferred bucket force space. On the basis of this model, the joint forces acting on the working attachment are calculated. Further, the critical digging condition and design loads used for the structure optimization can be determined by using the stress-based evaluation method. A fully parametric geometry model of the working attachment is constructed to achieve automatic design optimization and reduce the remodeling time. The plate thickness parameters and some critical structure parameters are selected as the design variables for the optimization design problem, which aims at minimizing the maximum stress in the structure and reducing the weight of the working attachment. Mixed variable genetic algorithm is used to solve this optimization problem due to its design variables include both discrete and continuous parameters. A simulation and optimization framework is established to support load calculation and processing, stress analysis, and structure optimization. Finally, the capabilities of the proposed methodology and established framework are demonstrated by a practical design. The results show that both the weight and maximum stress of the working attachment have an obvious decrease. This work provides a pragmatic tool for efficient virtual design and automatic optimization for the working attachment of an excavator.
Social factory as a production node of social manufacturing
Authors: Liu Chao , Jiang Pingyu
Published: April 2019

Social factory is served as the production node of social manufacturing communities/network to make manufacturing factories shift to the internet-based ones. The social factory aims to deal with fast-changing production requirements, sharing and competing of product orders, flexible resource configuration, ubiquitous interconnections, and real-time production monitoring and control. To achieve these visions, an extended cyber-physical system-enabled social factory model is proposed by integrating current cyber-physical system with machining equipment, social sensors, and smart workpieces. Within the proposed social factory model, the system framework and runtime logic are presented, and some core concepts such as extended cyber-physical system node, social sensor, and smart workpiece are clarified. Based on that, the social factory model is implemented by developing diverse extended cyber-physical system nodes and then connecting them with humans to form a collaborative production network where humans can access and control the machines anywhere and anytime. To validate the proposed social factory framework, a flexible production line in our lab is regarded as an extended cyber-physical system-enabled social factory to demonstrate the decentralized production interaction and cooperation.
A novel decision-making unit for automated maneuver of articulated vehicles in real traffic situations
Authors: Shojaei Saeed , Rahmani Hanzaki Ali , Azadi Shahram , Saeedi Mohammad Amin
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a new decision-making algorithm for double lane change maneuver of an articulated vehicle in real dynamic circumstances is studied. A novel method for determining the decision conditions is used based on the articulated vehicle kinematics and dynamics. Through this method, several points of the articulated vehicle are considered in various situations when conducting double lane change maneuver, and the critical points are determined. A new realistic dynamic method is used based on a 16-degrees of freedom dynamic model of the articulated vehicle. The sliding mode control method is utilized to increase the method efficiency. Therefore, the least safe time to perform the double lane change maneuver is extracted based on the sliding mode control method as tracking control. A new Articulated Vehicle Least safe time formulation is determined for dynamic circumstances. Based on the results of simulated test, the acceptable time range is also established for conducting the lane change maneuver. The lane change maneuver is generalized to the double lane change maneuver. Decision-making algorithm is introduced based on real traffic situations. The dynamic approach and the decision-making algorithm are verified. Results show the validity of the reflected method meaning that the decision-making algorithm is acceptable.
Optimal scheduling to minimize noise exposure in an oil and gas field
Authors: Atanas Jean-Pierre , Simmons Rodney , Rodrigues Clarence
Published: April 2019

Noise analysis with different scenarios has been conducted for an oil and gas field to determine whether workers during sandblasting operations were fully protected from high noise to prevent ear injuries and downtime. The main purpose is to minimize noise doses affecting workers through an optimal scheduling algorithm. Data collected from a noise meter was fully evaluated and analyzed in terms of LAeq—A-weighted average energy equivalent sound pressure levels—and Lpk energy peak, in the audible range from 12.5 Hz to 20 kHz based on the one-third octave band frequencies. All noise results were found above the maximum permissible exposure limit 85 dB(A). Another important feature is the sharp rise observed in all weighted levels up to a mean value of 67 dB at low frequency of 80 Hz. A sharp decrease in the high frequency noise levels beyond 8 kHz is also observed. Comparisons between different scenarios are also presented. Additional noise sources such as compressors and air coolers add up an important fraction of the workers’ noise exposure dose and highly contribute to the hearing loss. Finally, a fair scheduling algorithm to optimize noise exposure time by minimizing the noise dose is proposed.
Long-term treatment with finasteride induces apoptosis and pathological changes in female mice
Authors: Alkahtane AA , Albasher G , Al-Sultan NK , Alqahtani WS , Alarifi S , Almeer RS , Alghamdi J , Ali D , Alahmari A , Alkahtani S
Published: April 2019

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of alopecia, and it affects humans of both genders. Finasteride is a type II selective 5α-reductase inhibitor that is administered orally to treat androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia in human males. However, its effect on the vital organs of females is unknown. This study was designed to investigate the effects of finasteride on the vital organs such as liver, kidney, and heart of female mice. To study the prospective effects of finasteride, female mice were orally administered two doses of finasteride (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg) once daily for 35 days, and serum levels of various biochemical parameters and histopathology of various organs were examined. The results showed that serum levels of alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased by both high- and low-dose finasteride, whereas cholesterol was significantly increased by the high dose only. Creatine kinase was significantly increased by the high and low doses, whereas glucose was significantly decreased by both doses. Histopathological analysis and DNA damage assays showed that finasteride has adverse effects within both the short and the long periods in female mice. In addition, the proapoptotic genes Bax and caspase-3 were significantly increased by high dose finasteride, whereas the antiapoptotic gene Bcl-2 was significantly decreased by the low and high doses. In conclusion, finasteride is not currently approved for therapeutic use in females, and the findings in this study suggest caution in any future consideration of such use.
The Yoga Sutra of librarianship: Towards an understanding of holistic advocacy
Authors: Block Courtney M , Proctor Christopher L
Published: April 2019

This article discusses the creation of a new philosophical model of librarian-patron interaction. Directly influenced by the classical Indian text The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, the authors have created the Triadic Model of Holistic Advocacy, which is supported by three yogic concepts: yoga (union), karuṇā (compassion), and āsana (pose). At its core, holistic advocacy encompasses both a philosophy and praxis of librarianship that is predicated on the belief that librarianship is fundamentally about service to others. Holistic advocacy requires a consistent, empathetic approach to librarian-patron interactions that is ultimately reflected in the quality of services rendered. The authors argue that engaging in holistic advocacy empowers library professionals to better advocate for patrons, specific libraries, and librarianship as a field. Embedding this ethos will help ensure that advocacy happens frequently and organically. Furthermore, holistic advocacy is a mindset that will help foster the growth of a more critically-thinking, compassionate society. The blending of eastern philosophical concepts (as outlined in the The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali) and western practices of LIS has not yet been discussed in the literature. The authors hope this discussion will encourage others to consider how eastern philosophy impacts western library practices.
Challenges of achieving clinical remission in a national cohort of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Abdelrahman N , Beresford M W , Leone V ,   on behalf of the UK Juvenile-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Study Group
Published: April 2019

Background and objectives

The multisystem involvement and variable course of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) make it difficult to assess disease activity over time. International consensus definitions of inactive disease and clinical remission have been proposed. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of patients meeting these criteria in a large national cohort of JSLE patients and the association between achieving inactive disease and clinical remission with disease activity at presentation and time to diagnosis.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with JSLE aged ≤17 years with a minimum of 12 months follow-up participating in the UK JSLE Cohort Study were assessed against these criteria at baseline, 1 year and final clinic visit.

Results

A total of 218 patients with mean follow-up duration of 4.7 years were included and analyzed at baseline visit, of which 93 and 209 were available for analysis at the 1-year and the last follow-up visits, respectively. Eighty-five percent at 1 year and 62% at final follow-up still had active disease while only 6% and 9%, respectively, achieved inactive disease according to the proposed criteria. The majority of patients continued to require immunosuppressive treatment despite their prolonged follow-up with only two patients achieving clinical remission on medication and none off medication. A large number of patients did not meet the criteria for inactive disease due to isolated laboratory abnormalities such as reduced lymphocyte count. Isolated low lymphocyte count was the reason for not fulfilling the inactive disease criteria in 20/79 (25%) patients at 1 year and 14/130 (11%) patients at final follow-up visit. No statistically significant differences in relation to time to diagnosis and disease activity at presentation were found between patients achieving inactive disease compared to those who did not, at 1 year and final follow-up.

Conclusion

The majority of patients failed to achieve the proposed criteria for inactive disease and continued to require immunosuppressive treatment. This reflects the high burden of disease in JSLE despite immunosuppressive therapy. A significant proportion of patients had isolated laboratory abnormalities of potentially limited clinical significance, suggesting that some modifications of the proposed criteria may be required.