bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of multidimensional temperature distribution on the vibrational characteristics of a size-dependent thick bi-directional functionally graded microplate
Authors: Bakhsheshy Ali , Mahbadi Hossein
Published: October 2019

This article develops the modified couple stress theory to study the free vibration of bi-directional functionally graded microplates subjected to multidimensional temperature distribution. Third-order shear deformation and classical theories of plates are adapted for free vibration analysis of thick and thin microplates, respectively. Employing the third-order shear deformation theory, both normal and shear deformations are considered without the need for shear correction factor. Material of the bi-directional functionally graded microplate is graded smoothly through the length and thickness of the microplate. Gradient of the material is assumed to obey from the power law in terms of the volume fraction of the constituents. Assuming the uniform and nonuniform temperature distributions, the effect of thermal environment on dynamic behavior of the microplate is discussed in detail. Applying the Ritz method, the displacement field is expanded by admissible functions which satisfy the essential boundary conditions, and Hamilton principle is employed to determine the natural frequencies of the microplate. Developed model has been applied to determine the natural frequencies in problems of thin/thick, one-directional/bi-directional functionally graded, and homogeneous/nonhomogeneous microplates. Effects of parameters such as the thermal environment, power law indexes [Formula: see text] and length scale parameter on free vibration of these problems are studied in detail. The results show that higher values of length scale parameter and temperature rise decrease the natural frequency of the bi-directional functionally graded microplate. According to results obtained by classical and third-order shear deformation theories, the third-order shear deformation theory is proposed for vibration analysis of microplates with thickness-to-length ratio less than five.
A latent profile analysis of nurses’ moral sensitivity
Authors: Zhang Na , Li Jingjing , Xu Zhen , Gong Zhenxing
Published: October 2019

Background:

The three-dimensional model of nurses’ moral sensitivity has typically been studied using a variable-centered rather than a person-centered approach, preventing a more complete understanding of how these forms of moral sensitivity are expressed as a whole. Latent profile analysis is a person-centered approach that classifies individuals from a heterogeneous population into homogeneous subgroups, helping identify how different subpopulations of nurses use distinct combinations of different moral sensitivities to affect their service behaviors.

Objective:

Latent profile analysis was used to identify three distinct profiles of nurses’ moral sensitivity. Associations of the profiles with service behaviors were then examined.

Methods:

Five hundred twenty-five nurses from three tertiary hospitals in China were investigated with Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire and Nurses’ Service Behavior Scale. Latent profile analysis was used to analyze the data.

Ethical considerations:

Approval was obtained from the Ethics committee for biomedical research of Medical College, the Hebei University of Engineering.

Results:

A three-profile moral sensitivity model provided the best fit to the data. The resulting profiles were low moral sensitivity, moderate moral sensitivity, and high moral sensitivity. There were significant differences in service behaviors among different profiles of moral sensitivity.

Conclusion:

The results provide a new and expanded view of nurses’ moral sensitivity, which may be used to monitor nurses’ service behaviors comprehensively and to evaluate nursing ethics management strategies.
A comparative study of the accounting research trends (1994–2014) between Spain and Italy
Authors: Patuelli Alessia , Carungu Jonida
Published: October 2019

Consistent with the social and institutional paradigm, countries with similar cultures, such as Italy and Spain, may show similar trends in the development of accounting research. This article develops a Comparative International Accounting History perspective, which is aimed at comparing accounting history subjects and themes in different countries. This research analyses publication patterns in accounting, understanding emerging topics and fields. It compares the last 20 years of Italian and Spanish accounting journals, developing a content analysis of each issue in the 20-year time frame from 1994 to 2014. Highlighting common trends and insights, this article adds to previous literature that examines publishing patterns of research in accounting journals from a historical point of view. It demonstrates that accounting research is developing beyond the institutional paradigm, showing an internationalisation process and trends consistent with Anglo-Saxon Journals.
Transition to Higher Education in South Korea: Current Status and Issues
Authors: Kim Kyeong-Hwa , Kim Joungmin
Published: October 2019

In South Korea, higher education is widely available to all people. However, few people with disabilities have received a college education. In 1995, the Higher Education Special Admission for Students with Special Needs policy was implemented to promote opportunities for individuals with disabilities to have access to higher education. Since the special admission policy was implemented, an increasing number of high school students with disabilities have entered college. Research indicates that the transition from high school to higher education is not smooth for students with disabilities. Accordingly, this article discusses issues surrounding this transition for students with disabilities after briefly describing the college entrance system and policies on transitioning to higher education in South Korea.
Exploring the Predictors of Family Outcomes of Early Intervention for Children on the Autism Spectrum: An Australian Cohort Study
Authors: Wicks Rachelle , Paynter Jessica , Adams Dawn
Published: October 2019

Family outcomes of early intervention (EI) for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have received limited research attention to date. This study explored potential predictors of family outcomes and EI perceived helpfulness on the Family Outcomes Survey–Revised, utilizing an adapted double ABCX framework. Participants were 97 mothers of children aged 4 to 5 years ( M = 60.47 months; SD = 6.62; 87.6% male) participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Students with Autism (LASA). Parent and family factors were significant predictors, whereas child characteristics were largely nonsignificant beyond variance explained by parent and family factors. Findings highlight the importance of parent and family factors when considering family outcomes of EI and whether parents perceive benefits from their engagement with EI services. Overall, a shift in the focus of EI outcome evaluation is indicated, which views parents and families as meaningful to overall optimal EI outcomes.
Asking the Right Questions: Using Reflective Essays for Experiential Assessment
Authors: Bennion John , Cannon Brian , Hill Brian , Nelson Riley , Ricks Meagan
Published: October 2019

Background: Experiential educators face difficulties assessing participants and programs because there are so many measurement tools to choose from, many measures have validity issues such as those based on self-reported data, objective tests may not adequately measure social or psychological outcomes, and tests in content disciplines often assess knowledge rather than skill in synthesis, analysis, or evaluation. Purpose: We hypothesized that an open-ended essay final would reliably measure individual growth, internalization of foundational threshold concepts in our disciplines, and the effectiveness of our outdoor, interdisciplinary program. Methodology/Approach: Student essays contained 36 student-generated concepts spread across our four disciplines (biology, writing, history, and recreation) which we compared with 20 threshold concepts from professional literature. Findings/Conclusions: Individual students identified about half of the concepts generated by the whole group, illustrating that their learning varied significantly. Our group identified 13 of the published threshold concepts. Students demonstrated comprehension of threshold concepts—foundational ways of seeing—as opposed to restatements of information from teachers’ lectures. Implications: Writing essays aids permanent cognitive and behavioral learning; coding responses to open-ended essay questions for threshold concepts can be a valuable tool for both individual student and program assessment in experiential education.
Characteristics of Canadian Youth Adhering to Physical Activity and Screen Time Recommendations
Authors: Fitzpatrick Caroline , Burkhalter Robin , Asbridge Mark
Published: October 2019

The purpose of the study was to describe adherence to screen time (ST) and physical activity (PA) recommendations among Canadian youth. The present study was based on a representative sample of Canadian students from Grades 7 through 12 ( N = 47,203). ST and PA as well as demographic (gender, ethnicity, grade, and province of residence) and individual (alcohol, tobacco and cannabis usage, school connectedness) correlates were self-reported by youth. In total, 49.2% (99% confidence interval [CI] = [46.3%, 52.2%]) of participants respected none of the recommendations, while 40.2% (99% CI [37.0%, 43.3%]) and 20.8% (99% CI [19.2%, 22.4%]) respected PA or ST recommendations, respectively. In terms of the correlates of health-related behavior, White ethnicity, alcohol use, and feeling more connected to school were positively correlated with adherence. Attending school in Quebec and smoking cannabis increased risk of poor compliance. The present findings may help the design of school-based health promotion strategies designed to increase PA and reduce ST.
Primary Low-Grade B-Cell Lymphoma of Skull With Translocation Between Immunoglobulin and Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 Genes
Authors: Nasim Mansoor M. , Chalif David J. , Demopoulos Alexis M. , Brody Judith , Lee-Huang Rova , Spitzer Silvia G. , Kolitz Jonathan E. , Zhang Xinmin
Published: October 2019

Low-grade B-cell lymphoma with immunoglobulin ( IG) and interferon regulatory factor 4 ( IRF4) gene rearrangement is extremely rare, with only 4 cases being previously reported. In this article, we report one additional case that arises from the skull and review the literature. The patient was a 69-year-old man who presented with recurrent and disabling vertigo and was found to have a 5.0 × 1.7 cm lesion within the left posterior parietal bone. Histological examination revealed a bone lesion with diffuse lymphoid infiltrate comprising of mostly small lymphocytes with scant cytoplasm, slightly irregular nuclei and inconspicuous nucleoli, and scattered larger cells resembling prolymphocytes and paraimmunoblasts. Immunohistochemical studies showed that the neoplastic cells were positive for CD20, CD79a, PAX5, CD23, CD43, BCL-2, BCL-6, MUM-1, LEF-1, and IgM and negative for CD5, CD10, cyclinD1, SOX11, and IgD. Flow cytometric analysis identified CD5 negative and CD10 negative monoclonal B cells with lambda light chain restriction. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed del(13q) abnormality, but was negative for IGH/BCL2, IGH/CCND1, and BIRC3/MALT1 translocations. Next-generation sequencing identified IGK-IRF4 rearrangement and BRD4 E1113 del abnormalities. Given a low clinical stage (IE) of the disease, the patient did not receive additional treatments and was free of disease at 1 year after the diagnosis.
A review of checkpoint inhibitors in the management of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Hanna Kirollos S
Published: October 2019

Renal cell carcinoma is a common malignancy of the genitourinary system and is the eight most common cancer type in the United States. The overall incidence of renal cell carcinoma appears to be increasing but death rates have been declining. Patients with poor risk, advanced disease have a two-year survival rate of approximately 7%. Prior to the advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibodies, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, and checkpoint inhibitors, IFN-α and high-dose IL-2, were standard of care treatment options but, conversely, their use is now limited to select patients. Immunotherapies have played a significant role in the treatment of various cancers and have continued to expand. It is of utmost importance that practitioners include checkpoint inhibitors as treatment options for renal cell carcinoma as they mark a new era in the treatment of advanced or relapsed setting. Nivolumab, pembrolizumab, avelumab, ipilimumab, and atezolizumab all play a role in management of disease as either monotherapy or in combination with other agents. Ongoing clinical trials are ongoing to further assess the benefits of inducing cellular immunity in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma. In this article, the available data on immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of advanced or relapsed renal cell carcinoma and their place in therapy are reviewed.
The Formation of Postsecondary Expectations Among Parents of Youth With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kirby Anne V. , Bagatell Nancy , Baranek Grace T.
Published: October 2019

Research suggests higher parent expectations can predict more independent outcomes of youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet little is known about how parents’ expectations are formed. To gain an understanding of their formation, we conducted semi-structured interviews with seven parents of adolescents with ASD. Three main types of influences on parent expectations were identified: factors related to the youth, to the parent, and to social and societal forces external to the family. Although not directly probed, all of the participants also discussed their approaches to planning for the future, suggesting a connection with their expectations. These findings contribute to a growing body of literature on the role of parent expectations during the transition to adulthood. Future research and clinical practice implications include designing interventions aimed at expanding parent expectations in addition to approaches directly preparing youth with ASD for adulthood as a means to improve outcomes.
Hybrid OpenMP-CUDA parallel implementation of a deterministic solver for ultrashort DG-MOSFETs
Authors: Mantas José M , Vecil Francesco
Published: October 2019

The simulation of ultrashort two-dimensional double gate metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors and similar semiconductor devices through a deterministic mesoscopic, hence accurate, model can be very useful for the industry: It can provide reference results for macroscopic solvers and properly describe weakly charged zones of the device. For the scope of this work, we use a Boltzmann–Schrödinger–Poisson model. Its drawback is being particularly costly from the computational point of view, and a purely sequential code may take weeks to simulate high voltages. In this article, we develop a hybrid parallel solver for a graphics processing unit (GPU)-based platform. In order to accelerate the simulations, the Boltzmann transport equations are solved on GPU using the CUDA programing model, while the Schrödinger–Poisson block is performed on multicore CPUs using OpenMP. We have adapted the costliest computing phases to the GPU in an efficient manner, achieving high performance and drastically reducing the simulation time. We give details about the parallel-design strategy and show the performance results.
The Study of Validity and Reliability of the SPOFIA Scale in Patients With Postoperative Breast Cancer
Authors: Bozdemir Havva , Aygin Dilek
Published: October 2019

Introduction and aim:

This study investigates the validity and reliability of the Subjective Perception of Post-Operative Functional Impairment of the Arm (SPOFIA) scale in patients with postoperative breast cancer.

Materials and methods:

Research was designed as a methodological type. Required permissions were taken from the ethics committee, relevant institutions, and researchers who developed the SPOFIA scale. Data were collected as a research in Kocaeli University hospital, between November 2017 and October 2018. For the Turkish SPOFIA scale’s validity, data were collected from 142 patients. In the study, Patient Information Form, SPOFIA, and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) Quality-of-Life Questionnaire were used. In the analysis of data, descriptive statistical methods were used, and in the analysis of the validity of the scale, test-retest and Cronbach alpha reliability coefficient was used.

Results:

As a result of the analysis, we obtained Kendall W = 0.107, P > 0.05; correlation with SF-36 was P < .05, reliability studies test-retest analysis was P > .05, and Cronbach alpha reliability coefficient was 0.739. It was determined that the SPOFIA scale was valid and reliable for Turkish patients and that the subjective findings of the patients could be used as individual follow-up in longitudinal monitoring.

Conclusions:

As a result, it was determined that the SPOFIA scale was reliable in the patient follow-up of breast cancer women.
Current Advance in Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists in the Management of Thrombocytopenia Associated With Chronic Liver Disease: Focus on Avatrombopag
Authors: Abdela Jemal
Published: October 2019

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a condition that progresses over time toward advanced disease state which is known as liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis leads to dangerous health problems among people living across the world. One such problem that observed in about 75% of cirrhotic patients is thrombocytopenia; which in turn associated with poor prognosis and recovery from CLD. Beyond these, thrombocytopenia in cirrhotic patients led to impairment of coagulation cascade and significantly influenced the utilization of effective mechanism in the management of CLD. By nature, treatment of CLD involves invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures; therefore, in the presence of thrombocytopenia implementing these methods put the lives of patients in a critical health problem due to increased risk of bleeding and mortality. Because of these reasons, prophylactic transfusion of platelets is considered to be one of the most effective options that reduce the risk of bleeding in patients with CLD that required to undergo an invasive procedure. Although platelet transfusion presented with significant advantages in facilitating the invasive procedure in patients with CLD, refractoriness with repeated use and various problems associated with its transfusion limit the continuous utilization of this important option. With these challenges and current advance in the knowledge of thrombopoiesis, the development of relatively safe and alternative drugs that enhance the production of platelets by interacting with thrombopoietin receptor agonists provides a promising option to platelet transfusion. The discovery and approval of romiplostim and eltrombopag in August 2008 and November 2008, respectively, for the treatment of chronic immune thrombocytopenia paved a way and followed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of 2 potentially advantageous drugs, lusutrombopag, and avatrombopag, in 2018 for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with CLD that required to undergo elective surgery. Therefore, this review aims to assess pathogenesis of thrombocytopenia and its challenges in the management of liver-related issues and, more importantly, gives emphasis to address the potential use of avatrombopag in the treatment of thrombocytopenia underlying CLD, its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as well as its toxicological profiles by presenting the most commonly reported adverse events in various trials.
The breakeven point for implementing telehealth
Authors: Snoswell Centaine L , Taylor Monica L , Caffery Liam J
Published: October 2019

Introduction

There are finite resources available to spend on healthcare, with the increasing burden of disease and the increasing cost of providing healthcare it is imperative that methods for optimising health systems to improve sustainability are investigated. This study is part of a larger body of work investigating the potential for telehealth to improve the economic sustainability of the health system. The aim of this sub-analysis is to investigate the breakeven point for implementing a telehealth service; that is the point after which the initial investment is recouped and the cost savings have become tangible.

Method

Literature searches were conducted using broad terms for telehealth and economics to identify economic evaluation literature focusing on telehealth. Articles were included if they reported their findings from a health system perspective, demonstrated cost savings, and provided sufficient information to calculate the breakeven point.

Results

Less than half of the economic analysis studies examined reported cost savings for the health system as a result of telehealth. The breakeven point could be calculated for 12 articles, all of which were included in the analysis. These articles described evaluations for store-and-forward, remote monitoring and videoconference services. The breakeven points for these services ranged from near immediate (less than 1 year) to 9 years. Remote monitoring and store-and-forward services reached their breakeven points sooner than the videoconference services.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that telehealth is cost saving for the health system in a proportion of services. When costs are saved, the breakeven point can be immediate (less than 1 year) or may take more time to eventuate.
Implementing a peer-support programme by group videoconferencing for isolated carers of people with dementia
Authors: Banbury Annie , Parkinson Lynne , Gordon Steven , Wood Denise
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Carers support programmes are commonly delivered in person, limiting attendance opportunities for rural carers and others who have access barriers. Studies using technology typically use text-based forums rather than real-time technology such as videoconferencing (VC). Delivering home-based carers support programmes by VC may mitigate barriers for accessing support. We report implementation findings for delivering a telehealth peer-support programme for isolated carers of people with dementia.

Methods

Participants were recruited through aged care providers, peak bodies and media activities. Inclusion criteria were primary dementia caregiver with Internet access and being socially or geographically isolated. The study design was a staggered randomised waitlist design. Measures included the UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS-6) and selected scales from the e-Health Literacy Questionnaire. Recruitment activities utilised digital processes. Participants completed a six-week programme delivered by VC. Qualitative data comprised logs detailing administration and IT procedures and difficulties. Post programme, 28 participants undertook semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

There were 16 groups comprising 69 participants located throughout Australia, with 87% using their own devices. Technical issues were few but included connection problems, which were compounded by low digital literacy skills. Qualitative data themes included changing perceptions in using technology, differences in communicating by VC and technical support required. Recruitment activities were time-consuming and would benefit from IT tailored for group-based work. Eight groups continued to meet on a self-organised basis.

Discussion

Providing peer-support groups using telehealth may have the potential to develop self-sustaining peer networks for isolated caregivers of people with dementia.
Men and the Drug Buzz: Masculinity and Men’s Motivations for Illicit Recreational Drug Use
Authors: Darcy Clay
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this article is to explore the motivations behind some men’s recreational use of illicit drugs from a gender standpoint. The rationale for this analysis stems from men’s predominance as illicit drug users and their likelihood of experiencing problem drug use and becoming a part of an over-represented population in drug treatment services. Explanations for men’s problematic/addicted patterns of drug use often point to marginalisation, disadvantage, and/or men’s tendency towards problematic health behaviours. This article argues that men’s illicit recreational drug use is often glossed over as a gendered activity and receives less scrutiny than problematic/addicted patterns of drug taking. It examines the drug-taking motivations of 20 Irish men who identified as illicit recreational drug users to expand on and deepen current explanations for men’s illicit recreational drug use. The article demonstrates how men engage in drug use for complex and contradictory reasons that include embodied quests for pleasure and excitement, achieving connection with other men, and performing or contravening masculinities in homosocial contexts.
Experimental study on the seismic performance of composite columns with an ultra-high-strength concrete-filled steel tube core
Authors: Yang Yong , Du Xing , Yu Yunlong , Pan Yongpu
Published: October 2019

The ultra-high-strength concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tube column consists of a concrete-filled steel tube core and a rectangle-shaped reinforced concrete encasement. This article presents the seismic performance analysis of ultra-high-strength concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tube columns subjected to cyclic loading. Based on the measured load-lateral displacement hysteresis curves of six ultra-high-strength concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tube columns and two conventional RC columns, the seismic behaviours, such as the ductility, energy dissipation, stiffness and load-bearing capacity, were analysed. The effects of the arrangement of the stirrups and the layout of the prestressed steel strips on the seismic performance of the composite columns were critically examined. The test results indicated that the ductility and energy dissipation performance of the ultra-high-strength concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tube columns were increased by 74.8% and 162.7%, respectively, compared with the conventional columns. The configuration of the prestressed steel strip increased the ductility of the composite column by 28.9%–63% and increased the energy consumption performance by 160.2%–263.3%. By reducing the stirrup spacing and using prestressed steel strips, the concrete-filled steel tube core columns could be effectively confined, leading to a great enhancement in ductility, energy dissipation, stiffness and load-bearing capacity.
Medical devices biomaterials – A review
Authors: Festas AJ , Ramos A , Davim JP
Published: October 2019

Due to the increase in the life expectancy of world’s population, health care demands in terms of quality and accessibility are higher than ever before. Concerning the manufacturing of medical devices, the development of new biomaterials, new manufacturing methods and techniques have always been on researchers focus. In the development of a medical device, the choice of the proper material to be used is of the most importance, since its ability and capacity to fulfil the expected function will determine the success of the medical device itself. This work aims to do a review of those that are the most commonly used biomaterials. After an explanation on what are biomaterials and what defines them, a more in-depth approach is presented to each of the four major types of biomaterials: metal, polymer, ceramic, and composites, where their main characteristics and preferred applications in the area of medical devices are described.
Don’t cry for me Britannia: The resilience of the European Union to Brexit
Authors: Huhe Narisong , Naurin Daniel , Thomson Robert
Published: October 2019

We assess the impact of the United Kingdom’s 2016 decision to leave the European Union on the Council of the European Union, where Brexit is likely to have the clearest observable implications. Using concepts and models from the spatial model of politics and network analysis, we formulate and test expectations regarding the effects of Brexit. We examine two of the most prominent datasets on recent decision-making in the European Union, which include data on cooperation networks among member states before and after the 2016 referendum. Our findings identify some of the political challenges that Brexit will bring, but also highlight the factors that are already helping the European Union’s remaining member states to adapt to Brexit.
Nonlinear observer-based exhaust manifold pressure estimation and fault detection for gasoline engines with exhaust gas recirculation
Authors: Jiang Weihai , Shen Tielong
Published: October 2019

This article presents a nonlinear observer-based method to estimate the exhaust manifold pressure for the gasoline engines equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation system. A dynamic model is designed to estimate the exhaust manifold pressure, which includes both the intake manifold and exhaust manifold dynamics focusing on gas mass flows. Based on the developed model, a nonlinear exhaust manifold pressure observer is proposed to replace the exhaust manifold pressure sensor, and the global convergence is analyzed by a constructed Lyapunov function and the physical meaning of the time-varying parameters. The experimental validations show that the observer-based exhaust manifold pressure estimator is able to converge to the real value at arbitrary initial value and estimates the exhaust manifold pressure accurately during both the steady-state and transient conditions. Finally, the proposed exhaust manifold pressure observer is applied into the fault detection problem for the exhaust gas recirculation system. The experimental validations show that the observer is able to be used to estimate the exhaust gas recirculation ratio and as an extra signal to assist to detect the faults of the exhaust gas recirculation system accurately.
Segmenting Adolescents Around Social Influences on Their Eating Behavior: Findings From Italy
Authors: De Rosis Sabina , Pennucci Francesca , Seghieri Chiara
Published: October 2019

Adolescence is a fundamental period in everyone’s life. Teenagers have for the first time the possibility to take on responsibility about their choices in many domains, building their own “lifestyle.” Among these domains, food is one of the most important considering the implications for their future health. Deep knowledge of teenagers’ behaviors and of factors affecting their choices can support tailored health policy and social marketing interventions for this population. The purpose of this article is to prospectively segment teenagers around food socialization factors as influencing factors of food preferences, attitudes, and behaviors of adolescents. A cluster analysis (CA) was performed on a sample of 4,749 respondents aged 15 and 18 years coming from Tuscany (Italy). Considering food well-being and consumer socialization frameworks, the CA used three food socialization variables related to influences and source of information/advices at intrapersonal, interpersonal, and broader societal levels. Five distinct groups were identified and described, showing deep differences in the adolescents’ food behaviors corresponding to different socialization patterns. Adolescents who reported broader food socialization at all investigated levels present better lifestyle habits. Social marketers, policy makers, and health professionals can work on specific influencing food socialization factors for tailoring marketing interventions and increasing their positive impact on adolescents’ food behaviors.
Assessment of Research on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Among Sexual Minorities in the United States
Authors: Kim Chunrye , Schmuhl Margaret
Published: October 2019

Although sexual minority couples experience intimate partner violence (IPV) similar to or higher than heterosexual couples, not much attention has been given to LGBTQ couples. Using content analysis, this integrative review seeks to examine the state of scholarly literature regarding IPV among LGBTQ+ communities in the United States. For studies to be eligible for inclusion in this review, studies were required to focus on LGBTQ+ populations within the United States, published in English, involved violence between intimate partners, were the result of peer-reviewed, original research, and were published between years 2008 and 2018. Using SocIndex as the search database, a total of 46 peer-reviewed journal articles met the inclusion criteria. This study found that most studies employed quantitative research designs aiming to examine the statistical relationship between IPV and other variables by using surveys. Demographic information of the participants was mostly used as predictors of IPV, whereas health-related risky behaviors were mostly used as outcomes variables that were associated with IPV. Theoretical frameworks, methodology, and policy suggestions used in each study were examined in depth. A discussion of future studies and policy implications follows the findings of this study.
Symbiopolitics, Sustainability, and Science Studies: How to Engage With Alien Oceans
Authors: Gough Annette
Published: October 2019

This essay explores the implications for inquiries in sustainability education of Helmreich’s discussions of how human biocultural practices scramble nature and culture, life forms and forms of life, and his ethos of acceptance of ambiguous boundaries and transformative linkages with others. The silences in Helmreich’s arguments around gender and sustainability through looking at Probyn and Merchant, and the possibilities for a more-than-human scientific inquiry curriculum, are discussed, as is how science studies offer an image of a more-than-human anthropology that leads us to reconceive evolution, nature, gender, and sustainability, to which educational researchers need to pay attention.
Morphology, Loadability, and Releasing Profiles of CalliSpheres Microspheres in Delivering Oxaliplatin: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Han Xiaoli , Chen Qinyue , Sun Yali , Han Limei , Sha Xianyi
Published: October 2019

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore the morphology, loadability, and releasing profiles of CalliSpheres microspheres in delivering oxaliplatin.

Methods:

Varied amount (20, 40, 60, and 80 mg oxaliplatin) and concentration (1.25, 2.5, 5.0 mg/mL oxaliplatin) of oxaliplatin were mixed with CalliSpheres microspheres with 3 sizes (50-150 μm, 100-300 μm, and 300-500 μm) to measure the loadability. Of all, 20 mg oxaliplatin-loaded CalliSpheres microspheres with 3 sizes was prepared to measure the releasing profiles, meanwhile, fetal bovine serum was added to determine the effect of serum on oxaliplatin releasing. The morphology and size distribution of CalliSpheres microspheres with 3 sizes before and after 20 mg oxaliplatin loading were detected.

Results:

Oxaliplatin amount was negatively correlated with loading efficiency with highest loadability in 20 mg oxaliplatin group (maximum 40% in 50-100 µm CalliSpheres microspheres, 52% in 100-300 µm CalliSpheres microspheres, and 52% in 300-500 µm CalliSpheres microspheres), while oxaliplatin concentration was positively associated with loading efficiency. Similar drug-releasing profiles were observed among oxaliplatin-loaded CalliSpheres microspheres with 3 sizes, and a rapid drug release was discovered in CalliSpheres microspheres with 3 sizes as well. We also found that fetal bovine serum did not affect the drug-releasing profiles of oxaliplatin-loaded CalliSpheres microspheres. In addition, CalliSpheres microspheres was modified a little to ellipse shape and less smooth after oxaliplatin loading, and it was enlarged to some extent.

Conclusion:

This study discloses drug loadability, releasing profiles, and morphology change of CalliSpheres microspheres for delivering oxaliplatin, which provides potential evidences for application of oxaliplatin-loaded drug-eluting beads in clinical practice.
Combined Megavoltage and Contrast-Enhanced Radiotherapy as an Intrafraction Motion Management Strategy in Lung SBRT
Authors: Coronado-Delgado Daniel A. , Garnica-Garza Héctor M.
Published: October 2019

Using Monte Carlo simulation and a realistic patient model, it is shown that the volume of healthy tissue irradiated at therapeutic doses can be drastically reduced using a combination of standard megavoltage and kilovoltage X-ray beams with a contrast agent previously loaded into the tumor, without the need to reduce standard treatment margins. Four-dimensional computed tomography images of 2 patients with a centrally located and a peripherally located tumor were obtained from a public database and subsequently used to plan robotic stereotactic body radiotherapy treatments. Two modalities are assumed: conventional high-energy stereotactic body radiotherapy and a treatment with contrast agent loaded in the tumor and a kilovoltage X-ray beam replacing the megavoltage beam (contrast-enhanced radiotherapy). For each patient model, 2 planning target volumes were designed: one following the recommendations from either Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 0813 or RTOG 0915 task group depending on the patient model and another with a 2-mm uniform margin determined solely on beam penumbra considerations. The optimized treatments with RTOG margins were imparted to the moving phantom to model the dose distribution that would be obtained as a result of intrafraction motion. Treatment plans are then compared to the plan with the 2-mm uniform margin considered to be the ideal plan. It is shown that even for treatments in which only one-fifth of the total dose is imparted via the contrast-enhanced radiotherapy modality and with the use of standard treatment margins, the resultant absorbed dose distributions are such that the volume of healthy tissue irradiated to high doses is close to what is obtained under ideal conditions
The Conceptualisation of Peace in the Zimbabwean Rural Water Sector
Authors: Shoko Evans , Naidu Maheshvari
Published: October 2019

Peace as a concept has been relatively under-researched in view of its conception within the rural knowledge system and especially in connection to water access. This study used a sequential exploratory design to gather and analyse qualitative data in the form of semi-structured interviews from 20 village residents. In addition, quantitative data, drawn from a questionnaire, was used to validate the findings from the semi-structured interviews. This research showed that cooperation in the management of common water resources harmonises relations and brings unity and peace. The results also revealed that in as much as the rural Zimbabweans desire peace, corruption in water management increases the likelihood of grievance-based conflicts. Collaborative activities improve community relations and create a space for collective resolution of conflicts. The researchers recommend using local peace institutions to absorb macro-conflicts.
Using KISS Flaps in a Chest Wall Reconstruction After Mastectomy for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: A New Technique
Authors: Song Jia , Han Yong , Liu Jian , Cheng Kai , Gao Qiang , Wang Xiaohong , Yang Zhen-Lin
Published: October 2019

This study described a technique for the reconstruction of large lateral thoracic defects after local advanced breast cancer resection that allows for complete cover of the defect and primary closure of the donor site. The authors performed reconstruction using the newly designed KISS flap in 2 women for coverage of their large skin defect (15 × 13 cm each) following mastectomies with extensive tissue resection. The KISS flap consisting of 2 skin islands (marked Flap A and Flap B; 15 × 6 cm each) was designed and transferred to the thoracic defect through the subcutaneous tunnel, and based on the same vessel. The flap covered properly without causing excessive tension and allowed primary closure of chest wound and donor defect. The security it brings is comparable with that of classical radical mastectomy, and its success rate is similar to that of single skin flap transplantation. Compared with the conventional pedicled latissimus-dorsi-musculocutaneous flap, we believe that the donor zone tension decreases, wherein the KISS flaps can reduce the incidence of incision dehiscence and nonhealing complications to some extent. The study reported good results from this technique and discussed the techniques that referenced previous reports.
Process path planning based on efficiency model for ultrasonic cutting curved surface of honeycomb composite parts
Authors: Yu Haofeng , Hu Xiaoping , Kong Liyang , Yu Baohua
Published: October 2019

According to the roughing chip shape, the ultrasonic vibration cutting honeycomb material curved surface parts are divided into two rough machining processes of “V” shape cutting and rectangular cutting. Based on the non-interference characteristic cutter location counting model, the cutting efficiency model is established to select a better process. First, the residual height model of the two processes is established, and the residual height is controlled by longitudinal and lateral lifting the cutter location. Second, using the coordinate system conversion principle, the projection method is used to perform global interference check on the triangular-blade and the disk-blade which are used for ultrasonic cutting honeycomb composite, and then the characteristic cutter location generation method for changing the swing angle to avoid interference is proposed. Finally, a cutting efficiency model is established. Process analysis of case parts shows: when the feed rate of disk-blade is less 0.6 times to that of triangular-blade, the machining efficiency of “V” shape cutting is higher than that of rectangular cutting. When the disk-blade’s feed rate approaches or exceeds the triangular-blade’s, especially under this circumstance that the large parts is cut, the efficiency of the latter is higher.
Method and application of extending seismic vibrator bandwidth toward low frequency
Authors: Li Gang , Qi Wen , Ding Ya-Ping , Huang Zhi-Qiang , Lian Zhang-Hua , Tao Zhi-fei , Yang Xue-Ying
Published: October 2019

Low-frequency content of the output signal is very helpful in seismic exploration. In this study, method and application are conducted to extend the bandwidth of a seismic vibrator toward low frequency. Factors limiting vibrator’s low-frequency extension are studied, and stroke load capacity and pump-displacement load capacity are proposed and act as vibrator’s low-frequency performance evaluation indexes. Low-frequency performances of five seismic vibrators available in the market are analyzed. Then, multi-objective optimization is used to extend low frequency, and a newly designed seismic vibrator EV56 is developed based on this method. Results show that stroke load capacities of these vibrators are not much different, and all are beyond 5 Hz at 100% level. Moreover, none of the vibrators reaches a frequency lower than 8 Hz at a full pump-displacement load capacity. Through the optimization, the ground force increases by 8.55%, and the standard deviation of the ground force is reduced by 32.99%. Compared to other five vibrators, the EV56 vibrator generates more than twice the output force at 70% drive force level of 3 Hz and improves more than one full-load capacity octave. Field test shows that compared to a conventional seismic vibrator, the EV56 vibrator is more helpful to discover and reflect the underground structure.
Synthesis and fluorescent properties of coumarin-benzimidazole and coumarin–phenanthroimidazole hybrids
Authors: Fan Hongli , Wang Lingqiang , Wang Xiaolong
Published: October 2019

Two coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids and two coumarin-phenanthroimidazole conjugates were conveniently synthesized and characterized. The UV–vis absorption, emission spectra, absolute quantum yields, and fluorescence lifetimes of these compounds in diluted dichloromethane solutions were measured.
Serum Levels of Coll2-1, a Specific Biomarker of Cartilage Degradation, Are Not Affected by Sampling Conditions, Circadian Rhythm, and Seasonality
Authors: Hick Anne-Christine , Fonck Misch , Costes Bérénice , Cobraiville Elisabeth , Pirson Sébastien , Garcia Laetitia , Labasse Alain , Vander Poelen Steven , Henrotin Yves
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To assess intraindividual biological variability of serum cartilage specific biomarker Coll2-1 and define the best standardized conditions for blood sampling.

Design:

Blood samples were taken from 116 subjects with knee osteoarthritis (OA) at a single time point (PRODIGE study) and from 15 healthy subjects under various conditions, including fasting condition, sampling time and season, blood treatment, and type of blood collection tube (COVAR study). Type II collagen-specific biomarker Coll2-1 was directly measured in serum using an immunoassay.

Results:

There was no significant difference on Coll2-1 values between samples collected at any of the 5 sampling times or at any of the sampling days measured. None of the sampling parameters tested had a significant impact on Coll2-1 value (clotting time, clotting temperature and temperature of blood centrifugation, type of tube). On the contrary, differences were found in between subjects and between subjects with knee OA and healthy subjects.

Conclusion:

Coll2-1 measurement is not affected by sampling specific conditions, circadian rhythm or seasons but was found elevated in subject with knee OA indicating that Coll2-1 serum variation is not linked to the study environment, but to cartilage degradation in OA. Coll2-1 assay is sufficiently robust for use in OA clinical trials.
Prevalence of Hypoglycemia Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Rural Health Center in South India
Authors: Samya V. , Shriraam Vanishree , Jasmine Aliya , Akila G. V. , Anitha Rani M. , Durai Vanitha , Gayathri T. , Mahadevan Shriraam
Published: October 2019

Introduction: One of the greatest threats to achieving tight glycemic control is hypoglycemia, which can lead to decreased drug compliance, cardiovascular events, and even mortality. There is lack of literature on this complication in the Indian setting. This study will aid the primary care physician to achieve better glycemic control of the diabetic patients and provide patient education to prevent hypoglycemia. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study in which 390 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus getting treated in a primary health center were assessed for symptoms of hypoglycemia. Results: Prevalence of hypoglycemia was 57.44% (95% CI 52.48-62.25). Severe hypoglycemia was found in 10.7% of the patients. The first reported symptom of hypoglycemia was dizziness (72.3%). The most common etiological factor leading to hypoglycemia was missing a meal (89.3%). Females were at a significant higher risk of developing hypoglycemia (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.04-1.3, P < .05). Conclusion: This study has established the high prevalence of self-reported hypoglycaemia in the rural settings where resources are limited to monitor the glucose levels. The high prevalence urges the need for the primary care physicians to enquire about the hypoglycemic symptoms to all diabetic patients at each visit. It is also important to educate these patients about the symptoms of hypoglycemia and the importance of reporting of such symptoms, which will help in adjusting dose and preventing future attacks.