bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grief Experience Patterns Among Older Adults in Rural China: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Pan Haimin , Hu Rong
Published: August 2019

The present work sought to explore grief patterns among Chinese older people in rural areas as well as the factors influencing the diverse bereavement results. Participants were 352 older residents who lived in rural areas in China. Latent profile analysis was used to identify subtypes of class membership in combing complicated grief, depression, anxiety, and meaning in life. One-way analysis of variance, chi-square analysis, and multinomial regression analysis were performed together to examine the predictor best distinguishing between classes. The latent profile analysis model best fitting the data was a three-class solution comprised of adaptive ( n = 235; 66.8%), moderate maladaptive ( n = 83; 23.6%), and severe maladaptive groups ( n = 34; 9.7%). Compared to the severe maladaptive and moderate maladaptive groups, participants in the adaptive group had better physical functioning. Participants in the moderate maladaptive group had longer bereavement duration than those in the severe maladaptive group. Future replication is desirable for validating these subgroups.
Valuing Care and Support in an Era of Celebrating Independence: Disabled Young People’s Reflections on Their Meaning and Role in Their Lives
Authors: McLaughlin Janice
Published: August 2019

The right to a supported independent life is a central dimension to disability politics. This focus has been used to challenge institutionalised living and the exclusion of disabled people from areas such as education and employment. The importance given to independence has also led to a critique of care. This critique has been a point of contention between disability studies and feminist theorising. In this article I argue it is important to return to these debates because contemporary conditions mean advocacy of independence is being co-opted into rhetorics of self-sufficiency. At the same time care on its own does not offer a productive alternative. The article draws from an ESRC project undertaken with disabled young people to advocate for the importance of both supported independence and of support being caring. It concludes by arguing that an expansive welfare state is required to create the conditions that can make that possible.
Immigration law: a theological response
Authors: Heimburger Robert W.
Published: August 2019

This article presents the fruits of a dialogue between Christian ethics and immigration law found in the author’s recent book God and the Illegal Alien: United States immigration law and a theology of politics (Cambridge University Press, 2018). That dialogue highlights the importance of the people of God as a migrant people and the destiny of the nations as coming together in the blood of Christ. The dialogue also highlights a church posture towards government that the control of immigration is to be undertaken only in a limited way that keeps in mind the purpose of migration controls to protect human life and no more. Finally, the dialogue highlights the importance of asking ‘Who is my neighbour?’, pointing Christians to recognize those foreigners who have shown them mercy. This dialogue began with US law, but a parallel dialogue with British law produces conclusions about living as a migrant church in the United Kingdom, about calling the Home Office to govern immigration humbly, and about recognizing love received from migrant neighbours.
How Do Older Adults Define Successful Aging? A Scoping Review
Authors: Teater Barbra , Chonody Jill M.
Published: August 2019

Successful aging is a prominent theory that describes the aging process and the expected activities and behaviors older adults should engage in or exhibit to age successfully. Although this theory is used to gauge the extent to which older adults are aging successfully, older adults’ experiences and perspectives of what successful aging means to them are missing from the theory. A five-step scoping review framework was used to explore and synthesize the existing research that investigated older adults’ perspectives on successful aging. Twelve main themes were found and ranged from the importance of social relationships and interactions to having a good death. Findings indicated older adults do not define successful aging as strictly as is found in the literature. Old age and the aging process from the views of older adults provide future directions for theory development and research.
Exploring the Benefits and Drawbacks of Age Disclosure among Women Faculty of Color
Authors: Smith-Tran Alicia
Published: August 2019

This article is guided by two questions: How is age an important aspect of social location that, when forthcoming about it with students, can be beneficial for pedagogical purposes? and How can women faculty of color—particularly those who appear youthful and/or are younger than most of their colleagues—address the marginality of their actual and/or perceived age while simultaneously operating in a space that is contested for women of color? I highlight four benefits that arose as a result of disclosing my age to students: It (1) enabled me to provide concrete examples that were illustrative of key course concepts, (2) helped students understand how age is relational and contextually significant, (3) facilitated the creation of a safe space for “nontraditional” students, and (4) allowed me to better control the narrative students crafted about me based on their perceptions of me as an instructor.
Punishing the Perpetrator of Incivility: The Differential Roles of Moral Identity and Moral Thinking Orientation
Authors: Lin Xiaowan , Loi Raymond
Published: August 2019

To shed light on the paradoxical phenomenon that third parties of interpersonal mistreatment are motivated to restore justice but often engage in unethical actions, this research differentiates between destructive and constructive punitive reactions while testing the different moderating roles of moral identity and moral thinking orientation. From two studies using different methods and samples from different cultures, we obtained consistent findings that witnessed peer-to-peer incivility triggered moral outrage, which in turn led to both types of punitive reactions. Moral identity strengthened the relationship between witnessed incivility and moral outrage, while rule-based moral thinking orientation weakened the relationship between moral outrage and destructive punitive reaction. Moral identity strengthened the relationship between moral outrage and constructive punitive reaction. The indirect effect of witnessed mistreatment on destructive punitive reaction through moral outrage was strongest among participants with higher moral identity but lower rule-based moral thinking orientation. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings.
The malnutrition in polytrauma patients (MaPP) study: Research protocol
Authors: Dijkink Suzan , Meier Karien , Krijnen Pieta , Yeh D Dante , Velmahos George C , Arbous M Sesmu , Salim Ali , Hoogendoorn Jochem M , Schipper Inger B
Published: August 2019

Background:

Polytrauma patients are at risk of considerable harm from malnutrition due to the metabolic response to trauma. However, there is little knowledge of (the risk of) malnutrition and its consequences in these patients. Recognition of sub-optimally nourished polytrauma patients and their nutritional needs is crucial to prevent complications and optimize their clinical outcomes.

Aim:

The primary objective is to investigate whether polytrauma patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) who have or develop malnutrition have a higher complication rate than patients who are and remain well nourished. Secondary objectives are to determine the prevalence of pre-existent and in-hospital acquired malnutrition in these patients, to assess the association between malnutrition and long-term outcomes, and to determine the association between serum biomarkers (albumin and pre-albumin) and malnutrition.

Methods:

This international observational prospective cohort study will be performed at three Level-1 trauma centers in the United States and two Level-1 centers in the Netherlands. Adult polytrauma patients (Injury Severity Score ≥16) admitted to the ICU of one of the participating centers directly from the Emergency Department are eligible for inclusion. Nutritional status and risk of malnutrition will be assessed using the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) scale and Nutritional Risk in Critically Ill (NUTRIC) score, respectively. Nutritional intake, biomarkers and complications will be collected daily. Patients will be followed up to one year after discharge for long-term outcomes.

Conclusions:

This international prospective cohort study aims to gain more insight into the effect and consequences of malnutrition in polytrauma patients admitted to the ICU.
The effect of mechanical traction on low back pain in patients with herniated intervertebral disks: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Yu-Hsuan , Hsu Chih-Yang , Lin Yen-Nung
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of traction in improving low back pain, functional outcome, and disk morphology in patients with herniated intervertebral disks.

Data Source:

PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from the earliest record to July 2019.

Review methods:

We included randomized control trials which (1) involved adult patients with low back pain associated with herniated disk confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography, (2) compared lumbar traction to sham or no traction, and (3) provided quantitative measurements of pain and function before and after intervention. Methodological quality was assessed using the physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) scale and Cochrane risk of bias assessment.

Results:

Initial searches for literature yielded 3015 non-duplicated records. After exclusion based on the title, abstract, and full-text review, 7 articles involving 403 participants were included for quantitative analysis. Compared with the control group, the participants in the traction group showed significantly greater improvements in pain and function in the short term, with standard mean differences of 0.44 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.11–0.77) and 0.42 (95% CI: 0.08–0.76), respectively. The standard mean differences were not significant to support the long-term effects on pain and function, nor the effects on herniated disk size.

Conclusion:

Compared with sham or no traction, lumbar traction exhibited significantly more pain reduction and functional improvements in the short term, but not in the long term. There is insufficient evidence to support the effect of lumbar traction on herniated disk size reduction.
Metodi di campionamento negli studi epidemiologici
Authors: Franco Francesco , Di Napoli Anteo
Published: August 2019

Sampling methods in epidemiological studies

Sampling allows researchers to obtain information about a population through data obtained from a subset of the population, with a saving in terms of costs and workload compared to a study based on the entire population. Sampling allows the collecting of high quality information, provided that the sample size is large enough to detect a true association between exposure and outcome. There are two types of sampling methods: probability and non-probability sampling. In probability sampling the subset of the population is extracted randomly from all eligible individuals; this method, as all subjects have a chance of being chosen, allows researchers to generalize the findings of their study. In non-probability sampling, some individuals have no chance of being selected, because researchers do not extract the sample from all eligible subjects of a population; the sample is probably non-representative, the effect of sampling error cannot be estimated, so that the study produces non-generalizable results. Examples of probability sampling methods are: simple random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified sampling, and clustered sampling. Examples of non-probability sampling methods are: convenience sampling, judgement sampling.
Radio ghosts: Phenomenology’s phantoms and digital autism
Authors: Babich Babette
Published: August 2019

Günther Anders offers one of the first phenomenological analyses of broadcast radio (in 1930) and its transformation of the contemporary experience of music. Anders also develops a reflection on its political consequences as he continues his reflection in a discussion of radio and newsreel, film and television in his 1956 ‘The World as Phantom and Matrix’. A reflection on the consequences of this transformation brings in Friedrich Kittler’s reflection on radio and precision bombing. A further reflection on Jean Baudrillard’s notion of ‘speech without response’ permits a review of digital culture and the self-creation of the digital consumer absorbed in what Anders named a schizo-topia, that is, today, an autistic culture of distraction, displacement, and self-driven surveillance.
Individual and Organizational Factors Associated With Hospital Readmission Rates: Evidence From a U.S. National Sample
Authors: Conner Kyaien O. , Meng Hongdao , Marino Victoria , Boaz Timothy L.
Published: August 2019

Objective: Hospital readmission rate is an important indicator for assessing quality of care in the acute and postacute settings. Identifying factors that increase risk for hospital readmissions can aid in the recognition of potential targets for quality improvement efforts. The main objective of this brief report was to examine the factors that predict increased risk of 30-day readmissions. Method: We analyzed data from the 2013 National Readmission Database (NRD). Results: The main factors that predicted increased risk of 30-day readmission were number of chronic conditions, severity of illness, mortality risk, and hospital ownership. Unexpectedly, discharge from a for-profit hospital was associated with greater risk for hospital readmission in the United States. Discussion and Conclusion: These findings suggest that patients with severe physical illness and multiple chronic conditions should be the primary targets for hospital transitional care interventions to help reduce the rate of unnecessary hospital readmissions.
Take-Up of Financial Education: Demographic Characteristics and Prior Knowledge
Authors: Chin Alycia , Williams Alanna K.
Published: August 2019

To improve consumers’ financial decisions, many policy makers support financial education programs. However, some eligible consumers do not participate, limiting program effectiveness. The authors examine a home-buying and mortgage education website offered to more than 6,000 prospective home buyers, documenting differences in take-up (i.e., who decides to participate) and duration of use by consumers’ demographic characteristics, objective knowledge, and subjective knowledge. These analyses rely on a unique data match between surveys measuring consumers’ characteristics and clickstream data tracking website use. The results show that older participants and first-time home buyers are more likely to take up the website, but otherwise there is little relationship between observable demographics and take-up. Consistent with enrichment theory, consumers who are more objectively knowledgeable have higher take-up. However, consistent with “feeling of knowing” research, a one-standard-deviation increase in subjective knowledge is associated with approximately a ten-percentage-point decrease in take-up (controlling for other factors). Subjectively knowledgeable consumers also use educational materials for a shorter duration. The findings add to literature on consumer information search and inform policy makers about consumers’ use of online financial education.
Group Versus Individual Culturally Tailored and Theory-Based Education to Promote Cervical Cancer Screening Among the Underserved Hispanics: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Calderón-Mora Jessica , Byrd Theresa L. , Alomari Adam , Salaiz Rebekah , Dwivedi Alok , Mallawaarachchi Indika , Shokar Navkiran
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To determine whether group education is as effective as individual education in improving cervical cancer screening uptake along the US–Mexico border.

Design:

Cluster randomized controlled study.

Setting:

El Paso and Hudspeth Counties, Texas.

Participants:

Three hundred women aged 21 to 65 years, uninsured, due for a Pap test, no prior history of cervical cancer or hysterectomy.

Intervention:

Theory-based, culturally appropriate program comprised of outreach, educational session, navigation services, and no-cost cervical cancer testing.

Measures:

Baseline, immediate postintervention, and 4-month follow-up surveys measured knowledge and theoretical constructs from the Health Belief Model, Theory of Reasoned Action, and the Social Cognitive Theory.

Analysis:

Relative risk regression analyses to assess the effects of educational delivery mode on the uptake of screening. Mixed effect models to analyze changes in psychosocial variables.

Results:

One hundred and fifty women assigned to each educational group; 99% Hispanic. Of all, 85.7% completed the follow-up survey. Differences in screening rate at follow-up were analyzed by education type. Overall screening rate at follow-up was 73.2%, no significant difference by education type (individual: 77.6%, group: 68.9% P = .124). Significant increases among group education at follow-up for knowledge, perceived susceptibility, perceived seriousness, and subjective norms and significant decrease for perceived benefits.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence to support the effectiveness of group education to promote cervical cancer screening among vulnerable Hispanic women and offers an additional method to address cervical cancer disparities.
Large eddy simulation study of flow field characteristics of a combustor with two coaxial swirlers
Authors: Zhang Qun , Zhang Peng , Sun Shun-li , Song Ya-heng , Li Yi-fei , Wang Xin , Hai Han
Published: August 2019

The cold and reaction flow fields of a combustor with two coaxial swirlers are investigated by means of large eddy simulation. Effective data processing methods such as proper orthogonal decomposition and fast Fourier transform are employed for analysis. The complex flow phenomena such as swirling jet, shear layer, recirculation zone, and precession vortex core are observed and their characteristics are analyzed. The dynamics of the flame and its interactions with the complex swirling flows and large-scale eddies are characterized. The precession vortex core structures and its influences on the combustion process are emphatically explored. It is found that the outer shear layer produces spiral precession vortex core cantilever structures and the change of structural characteristics of the PVC determines the pressure pulsation frequency of the combustor. The results also indicate precession vortex core accelerates the mixing of unburned and burned mixture, leading to the ignition. The principal structures are studied by determining the highest energy modes via proper orthogonal decomposition. The modes are classified according to energy size. By means of proper orthogonal decomposition four-decomposition method, the vortexes of different energy and scales in swirling flow field are classified and analyzed in detail, the flow field is reconstructed, and the large-scale coherent structures and small energy flow structures are obtained. A spectral map of the turbulent kinetic energy density exhibits the −5/3 slope given by the Kolmogorov–Obukhov law. Based on the analysis of the vortex structures and their evolution, and the analysis of the transports and distributions of flow field characteristic parameters, a novel unsteady swirling flow combustion organization mechanism is proposed. It is found that combustion mainly occurs in low-energy small-scale vortexes, releasing a large amount of heat. High-temperature gas enters the recirculation zone and continues to provide energy for the precession vortex cores.
Library services to an aging population: A nation-wide study in the United States
Authors: Lenstra Noah , Oguz Fatih , Duvall Courtnay S.
Published: August 2019

This study presents a large-scale study of public library services to older adults in the United States. A random sampling method was used to identify public libraries (n=226) for the study. Results suggest that libraries serve their aging communities in multiple ways. Some libraries provide a plethora of specialized programs focused on the specific needs of older adults. Others extend core library services to ensure they are accessible to older adults. Others invest in infrastructure and staff development to prepare for an aging society. Some do not provide any specialized programs or services for older adults. There is great unevenness in terms of library services for older adults across the nation. The discussion suggests additional work needed to better understand this unevenness, and to address it.
Science-religion compatibility beliefs across Middle Eastern and American young adult samples: The role of cross-cultural exposure
Authors: Rios Kimberly , Aveyard Mark
Published: August 2019

Research shows that people in predominantly Christian cultures tend to perceive a basic tension between science and religion, which is not reflected in predominantly Muslim cultures. In this cross-cultural study comparing Christian university students in the United States and Muslim university students in the United Arab Emirates, we examined time spent in Western countries (for UAE students) or overseas (for American students) as predictors of perceived religion-science compatibility. Drawing upon the notion that science is viewed as more secular in Christianity than in Islam, we hypothesized and found that among UAE students, number of weeks per year spent in the West correlated negatively with religion-science compatibility beliefs. This relationship held even when controlling for science knowledge, suggesting that it results not from epistemological opposition to science but from an increasing exposure to the idea that science should be seen as a secular institution. Among American students, number of weeks per year spent overseas and religion-science compatibility beliefs were not associated. Implications for perceptions of science among different religious groups and in different cultural contexts are discussed.
Nonlinear creep damage model considering effect of pore pressure and analysis of long-term stability of rock structure
Authors: Liu Yaoru , Wang Weiqiang , He Zhu , Lyv Shuai , Yang Qiang
Published: August 2019

Water changes natural seepage in the surrounding geological environment and weaken rock mass of valley during reservoir impounding, which result in large time-dependent deformation of foundation of dam. A nonlinear creep damage model considering water effect is proposed by taking into account the influence of pore pressure on the spherical stress tensor and yield surface. The elastic-viscoelastic model is consisted of a spring and several cascaded Kelvin models. The model is implemented in the ABAQUS user material subroutine. The accuracy of the model is verified by the triaxial creep test of saturated sandstone and dry sandstone. Then it is applied in the valley contraction analysis during impounding of Xiluodu high arch dam.
Brief Underage Alcohol Use Screener Scores Predict Health Risk Behaviors
Authors: Tubman Jonathan G. , Meca Alan , Schwartz Seth J. , Velazquez Maria Rosa , Egbert Andrew W. , Soares Mary H. , Regan Timothy
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to determine if adolescents’ scores on a 2-item underage alcohol use screener predict risky consequences of past-year alcohol use and other health risk behaviors in a nonclinical, school-based sample of adolescents. A predominantly minority sample of 756 middle and high school students completed in-school tablet-based surveys on past-year underage alcohol use and a range of health risk behaviors. Higher scores for self alcohol risk and peer alcohol risk were associated with higher risk of past-year riding with a drunk driver and past 90-day measures of cigarette use, marijuana use, unplanned sex, and unprotected intercourse. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Brief Alcohol Screener is a useful tool for school-based service providers, including school nurses, to identify and address the needs of adolescents at high risk of the development of alcohol use disorders, as well as a range of preventable health risk behaviors.
Effectiveness of School-Based Smoking Prevention Education Program (SPEP) Among Nonsmoking Adolescents: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Nurumal Mohd Said , Zain Siti Hajar Mohd , Mohamed Mohamad Haniki Nik , Shorey Shefaly
Published: August 2019

Preventing smoking among adolescents is critical. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Smoking Prevention Education Program among nonsmoking adolescents. A quasi-experimental study design was used. Data were collected from Year 5 students ( n = 140) from four government primary schools in the Kuantan and Pahang districts of Malaysia. The participating schools were randomly assigned into the intervention and control groups. Questionnaires and exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) levels were used to collect data at the baseline and at 3 months postintervention. At 3 months postintervention, the percentage of nonsmokers remained 100% in the intervention group, while 2.9% of the participants in the control group reported to have smoked in past 7 days. Comparatively, the mean scores of attitudes, subjective norms, and nonsmoking intentions of the intervention group improved significantly. The intervention was effective in preventing smoking initiations among Malaysian adolescents; however, further evaluation of this intervention is needed among varied populations.
Size-dependent free vibration of axially functionally graded tapered nanorods having nonlinear spring constraint with a tip nanoparticle
Authors: Bahrami Arian , Zargaripoor Ali , Shiri Hamidreza , Khosravi Nima
Published: August 2019

According to the present literature review, the axial vibration of the axially functionally graded (FG) tapered nanorod with attached nonlinear spring has not been addressed so far. In this study, the axial vibration of the FG tapered nanorod is studied based on Eringen’s nonlocal theory, in which one end of the nanorod is clamped and the other end is attached to a nonlinear spring and a nanoparticle. The influence of different parameters such as the nonlinear spring constant, mass of the nanoparticle, and the nonlocal parameter on the natural frequencies is presented in detail. The solutions via Tables can be utilized as a reliable reference for evaluating the validity of future researches. The presented nonlocal solutions can be helpful for those who are interested in designing micro/nano electromechanical systems.
Do Increased Intra-alveolar Squamous Cells at Autopsy Correlate With Acute Fetal Asphyxia?
Authors: Jacques Suzanne M , Qureshi Faisal
Published: August 2019

It is a generally held concept that finding increased aspirated amniotic fluid squames at autopsy supports a diagnosis of acute fetal asphyxia, the massive aspiration of squames being an indicator of terminal gasping. To evaluate this concept, we identified autopsies on 15 third-trimester stillborns with clinical acute placental abruption (acute asphyxia); 13 also had thymic petechiae and none had severe acute thymic involution, findings also supporting acute asphyxia. Thirty third-trimester stillborns with findings supporting a subacute or chronic mode of death, including severe thymic involution and absence of thymic petechiae, comprised the comparison group. Intra-alveolar squames were scored as 0, no squames; 1+, scattered squames singly or in small groups; and 2+, squames in many alveoli, at least focally in compacted clusters. In all cases, the squames were patchily distributed, and none received a score of 0. In the abruption group, the intra-alveolar squames were scored as 1+ in 12 (80%) and as 2+ in 3 (20%) cases, while in the comparison group, the squames were scored as 1+ in 20 (67%) and 2+ in 10 (33%) cases ( P = NS). There was also no difference in the quantification of intra-alveolar squames in term compared to preterm stillborns. In conclusion, quantification of intra-alveolar squames did not aid in separating an acute mode of death (acute asphyxia) from subacute or chronic modes of death.
Urban–rural income disparity and inbound tourism: Spatial evidence from China
Authors: Shi Wenming , Luo Meifeng , Jin Mengjie , Cheng Seu Keow , Li Kevin X.
Published: August 2019

The challenging concern regarding how the benefits of inbound tourism can be evenly distributed, especially among urban and rural individuals, has received considerable attention in China. To address this concern, a spatial econometrics approach is used to estimate the spillover effects of inbound tourism on urban–rural income disparity (URID). An empirical analysis using the spatial Durbin model was conducted for 31 Chinese provinces covering the period from 2003 to 2017. Our findings suggest that at the national level, local inbound tourism significantly reduces the local URID, while neighboring inbound tourism significantly increases the local URID. At the regional level, the role of inbound tourism in reducing the local URID is only detected in the western region. The spillover effects of inbound tourism are positive and significant in the eastern/northeastern region but negative in the western region. In general, these findings provide insights into the importance of interregional tourism policies and strategies for inbound tourism development in China.
Values of cancer survivors and the supportive role of recreational video games
Authors: Comello Maria Leonora (Nori) , Francis Diane B , Hursting Laurie , Swarner Elizabeth , Marshall Laura H
Published: August 2019

Value-affirming activities have been linked to positive health outcomes and improved ability to cope. For cancer survivors who regularly play video games, might the games have potential to affirm values? We surveyed gameplaying survivors and included an open-ended question asking about values and the extent to which they perceived gameplaying as supporting values. A content analysis of responses ( N = 533) using Schwartz’s value typology revealed that a majority perceived gameplaying as supporting values or offering other benefits. Self-transcendence followed by openness to change were the most frequently coded higher-order categories. The results contribute to a richer understanding of survivors who gameplay.
Experimental evaluation of eccentric rotational channel-type damping system for vibration control of building structures
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Gook , Kim Kil-Hee
Published: August 2019

A theoretical and experimental investigation of an eccentric rotational channel-type damping system is presented. The proposed damping system can incorporate any type of existing passive dampers and provide a wider field of view to residents compared with existing damping systems. Furthermore, the efficiency of the proposed damping system can be magnified by modifying the geometry of the channel-type secondary system. Cyclic loading and free vibration tests of a full-scale test model with steel dampers were conducted to investigate the validity of the suggested simple behavior prediction model and the vibration characteristics of the proposed damping system. The experimental results were in good agreement with the numerical analysis. The results of numerical prediction studies on a single degree of freedom system with the proposed damping system also showed the effect of the eccentric rotational channel-type damping system on seismic response reduction.
Nexus between Openness to Trade and Economic Growth: An Empirical Investigation of Afghanistan
Authors: Wani Nassir Ul Haq
Published: August 2019

The notion that the international trade is the foundation of economic growth dates long back, and even now, an irresistible body of literature confirms a strong and positive link between trade openness and economic growth. However, most of these studies are focused on developed countries. Indeed literature from developing countries are scant, those from under developed and a landlocked country like Afghanistan are almost non-existent. This article endeavours to innovatively scrutinize the relationship between trade liberalization and economic growth in Afghanistan, using biannual data for the period 1995–2016 and thus evaluates the comparative effect of three different measures of trade openness on the economic growth by using more rigorous econometric techniques. Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) method, JJ CO-integration and ordinary least square (OLS) results suggest significant positive long-run relationship between export and economic growth. In contrast, total volume of trade and imports have significant negative effect on the economic growth. The addition of variables and results of fully modified OLS suggest that the results are robust. The Granger causality and variance decomposition analysis indicate the unidirectional causality between trade openness and economic growth. In export model, causality runs from export to growth. Whereas, in the model with total volume of trade and import, causality runs from growth to total volume of trade and imports in Afghanistan. From the findings, it is concluded that the policymakers should focus on export promotion strategy to enhance the economic growth in Afghanistan. Besides, efficient utilization of capital goods should be ensured and reliance on non-capital goods should be less in order to ensure high domestic production in the country.

JEL: F10, F43, C22
Emotional Tears: An Honest Signal of Trustworthiness Increasing Prosocial Behavior?
Authors: Reed Lawrence Ian , Matari Yanal , Wu Molly , Janaswamy Revathi
Published: August 2019

How do our emotional tears affect the way we are treated? We tested whether tears, paired with either a neutral or a sad facial expression, elicited prosocial behavior among perceivers. Participants viewed a video clip depicting a confederate partner with or without tears displaying either a neutral or sad facial expression before making a behavioral decision in one of two economic games. In a Trust game (Experiment 1), participants who played the role of the investor were more likely to share an endowment after viewing a confederate trustee with tears (paired with either a neutral or a sad facial expression) in comparison to a confederate trustee without tears. However, in a Dictator game (Experiment 2), participants who played the role of allocator were no more likely to share an endowment after viewing a confederate recipient with tears (paired with either a neutral or sad facial expression) in comparison to a confederate recipient without tears. Taken together, these findings suggest that tears increase prosocial behavior by increasing trustworthiness as opposed to generally increasing other-regarding altruistic tendencies.
Comparison of Function-Based, Nonfunction-Based, and Combined Treatments for Escape-Maintained Aggression in a Child With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Case Study
Authors: Wilder David A. , Bevacqua J. Aaron , Hodges Ansley C. , Ertel Hallie , Luong Nga
Published: August 2019

In applied behavior analysis, the use of function-based treatments to reduce problem behavior is well-supported. However, in some cases, function-based treatments alone may not be as effective as nonfunction-based treatments or function-based treatments with additional, nonfunction-based components. In this case study, we compared the delivery of preferred edible items (a nonfunction-based treatment), a break from a task (a function-based treatment), and an enhanced break, which consisted of a break plus access to a preferred tangible item (combination of a nonfunction-based and function-based treatment), to treat escape-maintained aggression exhibited by a young child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Across all three treatments, reinforcement (i.e., edible, break, or enhanced break) was delivered contingent upon compliance with instructions and problem behavior resulted in escape. The nonfunction-based treatment and the combination treatment reduced aggression to zero levels; the function-based treatment did not. Finally, we allowed the participant to choose which of the three treatments he preferred to experience; he selected the combination treatment most often.
Bowel Outcome Prediction After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Pavese Chiara , Bachmann Lucas M. , Schubert Martin , Curt Armin , Mehnert Ulrich , Schneider Marc P. , Scivoletto Giorgio , Finazzi Agrò Enrico , Maier Doris , Abel Rainer , Weidner Norbert , Rupp Rüdiger , Kessels Alfons G. , Kessler Thomas M.
Published: August 2019

Background. Predicting functional outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is essential for counseling, rehabilitation planning, and discharge. Moreover, the outcome prognosis is crucial for patient stratification when designing clinical trials. However, no valid prediction rule is currently available for bowel outcomes after a SCI. Objective. To generate a model for predicting the achievement of independent, reliable bowel management at 1 year after traumatic SCI. Methods. We performed multivariable logistic regression analyses of data for 1250 patients with traumatic SCIs that were included in the European Multicenter Study about Spinal Cord Injury. The resulting model was prospectively validated on data for 186 patients. As potential predictors, we evaluated age, sex, and variables from the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM), measured within 40 days of the injury. A positive outcome at 1 year post-SCI was assessed with item 7 of the SCIM. Results. The model relied on a single predictor, the ISNCSCI total motor score—that is, the sum of muscle strengths in 5 key muscle groups in each limb. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (aROC) was 0.837 (95% CI: 0.815-0.859). The prospective validation confirmed high predictive power: aROC = 0.817 (95% CI: 0.754-0.881). Conclusions. We generated a valid model for predicting independent, reliable bowel management at 1 year after traumatic SCI. Its application could improve counseling, optimize patient-tailored rehabilitation planning, and become crucial for appropriate patient stratification in future clinical trials.
Epidemiology of Trigger Finger: Metabolic Syndrome as a New Perspective of Associated Disease
Authors: N. Junot H. S. , L. Anderson Hertz A. F. , R. Gustavo Vasconcelos G. , da Silveira Debora C. Esquerdo C. , B. Paulo Nelson , Almeida Saulo F.
Published: August 2019

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the main diseases related to trigger finger. Methods: A retrospective, observational study was performed with data obtained through a computerized record of 75 patients with trigger finger diagnosis between July 2011 and October 2015. The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was performed following National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (2001). Results: Patients’ ages ranged from 50 to 84 years, with a mean age of 63 years. The ring finger was the most affected, followed by the middle finger, index finger, and little finger. Most had a grade 2 trigger finger classified by Green; the right hand involvement was more prevalent, as was the dominant hand. The incidence in women was twice as high as in men. Arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia were shown to be important associated diseases, but metabolic syndrome was the main association found. Conclusions: Metabolic syndrome in the group of patients studied in this scientific article seems to be the main associated disease.
Expanding circles of solidarity: A comparative analysis of Latin American community social justice project narratives
Authors: Cate Rachael , Russ-Eft Darlene
Published: August 2019

LatinX student enrollments in community colleges in the United States are rapidly growing, yet LatinX student success rates have not matched this growth. There is a need for community college programs that serve LatinX student populations more effectively and incorporate multicultural educational practices. Using Anzaldúa’s Mestiza consciousness theory, this study analyzed community learning testimonios written by Latin American movement leaders and identified common themes applicable to a process of critical consciousness development in critical educational programs. The themes common across the four testimonios were (a) collective motivation for learning; (b) organizational dynamics, practices, and values; (c) critical social consciousness; and (d) transcendent communal awareness of identity.
Curcumin Activates Vagal Afferent Neurons Through the Modulation of Ion Channels via α7 nAChR
Authors: Qiao Simiao , Dou Yannong , Hu Huijuan , Dai Yue
Published: August 2019

Curcumin, a plant polyphenol, has been previously reported to attenuate collagen-induced arthritis in rats by modulating the function of the cholinergic system, but the underlying mechanism remains to be identified. In this study, primary nodose ganglion (NG) neurons were prepared from the adult rats and the electrophysiological recording was performed using the whole-cell patch clamp technique. Curcumin was shown to reduce total potassium currents and A-type currents, without significant effect on the activation or inactivation of potassium channels. Moreover, curcumin selectively enhanced tetrodotoxin-sensitive (TTX-S) sodium channel currents. These effects could be abolished by methyllycaconitine citrate (specific antagonist of α7 nACh receptor). Interestingly, curcumin did not modulate TTX-resistant (TTX-R) or calcium channels. These results suggest that curcumin increases the excitability of NG neurons by decreasing potassium currents and increasing TTX-S sodium currents via α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR).
The relevance of ‘competence’ for enhancing or limiting children’s participation: Unpicking conceptual confusion
Authors: Moran-Ellis Jo , Tisdall E Kay M
Published: August 2019

Recent debates about children’s participation rights, formulated in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, primarily focus on ‘effectiveness’ of implementation. However, children’s participation remains problematic, its limited impact on adult power in decision-making or on the nature of decisions made persists, and implicated in both are reservations about children’s competence as participants. In respect of this, we analysed conceptualisations of competence in 67 articles, published between 2007 and 2017 in six childhood studies journals, in which ‘competence’ and its variations appear in the abstract. Although competence was rarely defined, conceptualisations were wide-ranging, covering competence as skills, as compliance with adult views, and as a trope signalling the field of childhood studies. As a result of our findings, we argue that epistemological clarity is vital for this concept to be useful regarding children’s participation and that attention must be paid to the different kinds of competences relevant for ‘effective’ participation.
Vulnerable subjects and autonomous actors: The right to sexuality education for disabled under-18s
Authors: Daly Aoife , Heah Rachel , Liddiard Kirsty
Published: August 2019

International human rights standards are clear that children and young people have a right to sexuality education. Nevertheless, the delivery of such education is often considered questionable, particularly for groups of children perceived as more ‘vulnerable’. In this article, the example of the right to access sexuality education for disabled children is used to explore the autonomy/vulnerability dynamic. Historically, sexuality education has been denied to disabled children, ostensibly to protect them from information and activities perceived as inappropriate due to their (perceived) greater vulnerabilities. It is argued, however, that discourses of sexual vulnerability can actually be dangerous in themselves. Sexuality education, rather than being a threat to disabled under-18s, serves as a way to increase their autonomy by equipping them with tools of knowledge around sex and relationships. This case study demonstrates how the autonomy of under-18s is not something inherent in them but something which can be enhanced through recognition of rights such as education and information, as well as recognition of adult responsibilities to facilitate this.
Experiences of Elementary School Counselors and Students in Using Reality Art Therapy to Address Chronic Conditions
Authors: Davis Eric , Smith-Adcock Sondra , Towns Lindsey
Published: August 2019

Elementary school counselors are frequently called on to provide counseling services for children with chronic conditions. However, counselors’ training and professional development in this area is lacking. Myriad behavioral, social, and academic issues can result from a child’s chronic condition. This qualitative study examined elementary school counselors’ and students’ perceptions of an integrated reality therapy and art therapy intervention and revealed four themes. We discuss implications for elementary school counselors.
Sensitivity to Interaural Phase in Older Hearing-Impaired Listeners Correlates With Nonauditory Trail Making Scores and With a Spatial Auditory Task of Unrelated Peripheral Origin
Authors: Strelcyk Olaf , Zahorik Pavel , Shehorn James , Patro Chhayakanta , Derleth Ralph Peter
Published: August 2019

Interaural phase difference (IPD) discrimination upper frequency limits and just-noticeable differences (JNDs), interaural level difference (ILD) JNDs, and diotic intensity JNDs were measured for 20 older hearing-impaired listeners with matched moderate sloping to severe sensorineural hearing losses. The JNDs were measured using tone stimuli at 500 Hz. In addition to these auditory tests, the participants completed a cognitive test (Trail Making Test). Significant performance improvements in IPD discrimination were observed across test sessions. Strong correlations were found between IPD and ILD discrimination performance. Very strong correlations were observed between IPD discrimination and Trail Making performance as well as strong correlations between ILD discrimination and Trail Making performance. These relationships indicate that interindividual variability in IPD discrimination performance did not exclusively reflect deficits specific to any auditory processing, including early auditory processing of temporal information. The observed relationships between spatial audition and cognition may instead be attributable to a modality-general spatial processing deficit and/or individual differences in global processing speed.
Differentiation of Left Atrial Myxomas by Multimodality Imaging
Authors: Kallstrom Eric , Kallus Elizabeth , Erbe Krista , Rampoldi Michael , Le Don , Bryan Neeley
Published: August 2019

A tumor is an excessive growth of cells that results from the body’s inability to balance the growth of new cells and the destruction of old cells. Tumors can occur throughout the body and are classified as either benign or malignant. However, cardiac tumors are a rare occurrence. When present, several imaging modalities are available to illustrate their presence and characteristics. Not all cardiac masses look similar and, depending on their size and location, may pose different health risks to the patient. This case series introduces six left atrial myxomas with dissimilar appearances initially detected by transthoracic echocardiography, along with cross-correlation by transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, and mechanical resonance imaging.