bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesoporous (Ta, Nb)3W7 Modified with Stearic Acid Used as Solid Acids for Esterification
Authors: Chang Fei , Wang Rui , Zhou Quan , Pan Hu , Zhang Heng
Published: March 2017

Mesoporous solid acids Ta3W7 and Nb3W7 were prepared from TaCl5 and NbCl5 with WCl6 in the presence of stearic acid (SA) via a sol-gel method, respectively. For comparison, mesoporous Ta3W7-P123 mixed oxides and mesoporous Nb3W7-P123 mixed oxides were synthesized in the same way. The catalysts were characterized through TGA, XRD, SEM, TEM, BET, and NH3-TPD. Experimental results showed that Ta3W7-SA and Nb3W7-SA exhibited several advantages such as higher activity, shorter preparation period, lower cost, stronger acid sites, and higher surface area, which had potential to be used as mesoporous heterogeneous catalysts in biodiesel production.
Diagnosis, Symptoms, and Outcomes of Hirschsprung’s Disease from the Perspective of Gender
Authors: Granéli Christina , Dahlin Eero , Börjesson Anna , Arnbjörnsson Einar , Stenström Pernilla
Published: March 2017

Background/Aim. Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) has a skewed gender distribution, with a female to male ratio of 1 : 4. This study aims to examine differences between boys and girls with HD regarding preoperative features and postoperative treatment and outcome. Method. The first part of the study was conducted as a retrospective review of all HD patients who underwent transanal endorectal pull-through (TERPT). Pre-, peri-, immediate post-, and first-year postoperative data were collected. The second part was conducted as an observational cross-sectional study by comparing bowel function scores (BFS) determined by structured interviews of patients 4 years old and older. Results. Included were 39 boys and 12 girls. Of these, 25 boys and 9 girls were older than 4 years and participated in the BFS interview. Boys had a higher frequency of hospitalizations during the first postoperative year compared to girls (n=20 and n=2, p<0.05). At long-term follow-up, more boys reported abnormal frequency of defecation, 16 compared to 2 (p<0.05). There was no difference between genders in terms of preoperative symptoms and overall bowel function later. Conclusion. Boys with HD had more hospitalizations and a higher rate of abnormal frequency of defecation than girls with HD.
Impact of Cytological Sampling on EGFR Mutation Testing in Stage III-IV Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Davies Rhian Siân , Smith Christian , Edwards Gwenllian , Butler Rachel , Parry Diane , Lester Jason Francis
Published: March 2017

Objectives. There have been advances in the identification and understanding of molecular subsets of lung cancer, defined by specific oncogenic aberrations. A number of actionable genetic alterations have been identified, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation. We aimed to establish the reasons why patients were not undergoing EGFR mutation testing at the time of histological diagnosis. Methods. The records of 70 patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung managed through a single multidisciplinary team at a single institution were reviewed. Data were collected on method of tumour sample collection, whether this was sent for EGFR testing, and the result. Results. Seventy patients were identified. In 21/25 (84%) cases, cytological sampling was sufficient for EGFR mutation analysis, compared with 40/45 (89%) cases with histological sampling. EGFR mutation testing was not carried out in 22/70 (31.4%) patients. There was insufficient tumour sample for EGFR testing in 9/22 (40.9%) patients. Other reasons for not testing included poor patient fitness and problems in the diagnostic pathway. Conclusions. In this series, cytological tumour sampling was not the predominant reason why cancers failed to have EGFR mutation status established.
Cross-Cultural Validity in Self-Reported Alcohol Use
Authors: Sznitman Sharon R. , Bord Shiran , Elias Wafa , Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Shiftan Yoram , Baron-Epel Orna
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim: Little evidence is available on whether respondents from divergent sociocultural populations report alcohol consumption in systematically similar ways. Therefore, this study examined whether the validity of self-reported alcohol use differed between Arab and Jewish Israeli pub patrons. Methods: The analytical sample consisted of 227 Arab and 900 Jewish Israeli pub patrons who were approached as they left pubs and asked to record their Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) value and complete a questionnaire that probed into their alcohol use. Validity of self-reported alcohol use across the 2 groups was examined by testing the discrepancy in concordance between the self-reported number of drinks and BrAC scores through simple Pearson correlations and by performing a multi-group measurement invariance (MI) comparison. Results: The Pearson correlation between the self-reported number of drinks and BrAC by the ethno-cultural group was almost identical across groups (Jews: r = 0.47, p < 0.01, df = 898; Arabs: r = 0.42, p < 0.01, df = 225). MI test results further confirmed that the factor loadings of the 2 drinking measures are similar across the 2 ethno-cultural groups. Conclusions: Self-reported alcohol consumption gives cross-culturally valid and acceptable estimates of alcohol consumption in this sample of Israeli Arabs and Jews.
Pediatric Bilateral Blue Laser Pointer-Induced Maculopathy
Authors: Raevis Joseph , Shrier Eric
Published: March 2017

Background: We report the first case of pediatric bilateral blue laser pointer maculopathy with complete resolution of visual symptoms. Case: A 12-year-old boy presented with bilateral decreased visual acuity and central scotomata after blue laser pointer exposure. He was treated with a Medrol Dosepak and topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), with gradual visual acuity improved from 20/40 OU to 20/20 OU over 22 weeks, but with persistent evidence of outer retinal layer disruption from the external limiting membrane to the interdigitation zone. Conclusion: Oral steroids and topical NSAIDs may be effective in improving visual outcomes in laser pointer maculopathy in the pediatric population.
Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria: A Case Report
Authors: Igal Vadim , Pikkel Igal Yael Sara , Pikkel Yoav Yechezkel
Published: March 2017

We present the case of a 43-year-old male with a war injury that manifested in damage to the retina in his right eye causing chorioretinitis sclopetaria. Chorioretinitis sclopetaria is a characteristic pattern of choroidal and retinal damage that is caused by a high-velocity projectile passing into the orbit, in close proximity to the eye globe. We discuss this rare situation, the injury mechanism, suggested treatment, and prognosis.
The HDAC Inhibitor LAQ824 Enhances Epigenetic Reprogramming and In Vitro Development of Porcine SCNT Embryos
Authors: Jin Jun-Xue , Lee Sanghoon , Taweechaipaisankul Anukul , Kim Geon A. , Lee Byeong Chun
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Hypoacetylation caused by aberrant epigenetic nuclear reprogramming results in low efficiency of mammalian somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Many epigenetic remodeling drugs have been used in attempts to improve in vitro development of porcine SCNT embryos. In this study, we examined the effects of LAQ824, a structurally novel histone acetylase inhibitor, on the nuclear reprogramming and in vitro development of porcine SCNT embryos. Methods: LAQ824 treatment was supplemented during the culture of SCNT embryos. The reprogramming levels were measured by immunofluorescence and quantified by image J software. Relative expression levels of 18 genes were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Results: 100 nM LAQ824 treatment of post-activation SCNT embryos for 24 h significantly improved the subsequent blastocyst formation rate. The LAQ824 treatment enhanced histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) levels, histone 4 lysine 12 (H4K12) levels, and reduced global DNA methylation levels as well as anti-5-methylcytosine (5-mC) at the pseudo-pronuclear and 2-cell stages. Furthermore, LAQ824 treatment positively regulated the mRNA expression of genes for histone acetylation (HAT1, HDAC1, 2, 3, and 6), DNA methylation (DNMT1, 3a and 3b), development (Pou5f1, Nanog, Sox2, and GLUT1) and apoptosis (Bax, Bcl2, Caspase 3 and Bak) in blastocysts. Conclusion: Optimum exposure (100 nM for 24 h) to LAQ824 post-activation improved the in vitro development of porcine SCNT embryos by enhancing levels of H3K9 and H4K12, reducing 5-mC, and regulating gene expression.
Schizostachyum cambodianum, a new species of bamboo (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) from Cambodia
Authors: MERKLINGER FELIX F. , CHHANG PHOURIN , WONG K.M.
Published: March 2017

Schizostachyum cambodianum is a new species of woody bamboo from the Cardamom Mountains in Cambodia. It is instantly recognized by a very large suborbicular projection at the base of the culm sheath. The only other bamboos which are known to consistently show such similar suborbicular projections are the Chinese species Schizostachyum hainanense, S. auriculatum, and S. dumetorum. In these species, however, the projections are less than one cm wide, whereas in S. cambodianum, it is particularly impressive, developing to about 3 cm wide. S. cambodianum can further be distinguished from its Chinese relatives by forming lax clumps due to its long-necked rhizomes and largely glabrous culm sheaths with only scattered pale hairs.
Horizontal Immobility
Authors: Rosen Eva
Published: March 2017

While poor families experience high residential instability, they also stay put for extended periods of time before moving. When they do move, they are likely to move laterally to a similarly disadvantaged place. These two processes—staying in place and churning—amount to “horizontal immobility.” Why do people get stuck in disadvantaged environments? Prevailing understandings focus on constraints to residential choice, but even under limitations, families make active residential decisions. Drawing on fieldwork with 50 renters in a low-income, high-crime Baltimore neighborhood, this article proposes that neighborhoods themselves shape narratives governing residential decision-making. In high-crime neighborhoods, renters stay put as long as they can craft a story that justifies remaining. But when the narrative is ruptured by violent events, residents are pushed to action, often a move. The logic behind these moves is motivated by a desire to restore a sense of safety. The concept of “narrative rupture” sheds light on when a family decides to move, representing a mechanism for how residential decisions are shaped by neighborhood forces to reproduce poverty. This concept also contributes to theories of how culture shapes action: we are most likely to act when the narratives supporting our current course of action break down.
Luminescence Study of the Samarium(II) Sites in Samarium: Barium Octaborate as Differentiated by Excitation Wavelength and Temperature
Authors: Drozdowski Christopher H. , Gharavi-Naeini Jafar , Stump Nathan A.
Published: March 2017

Divalent samarium incorporated in a barium octaborate matrix prepared by firing homogeneous precipitates has been studied with emission spectroscopy. One of the samarium sites associated with this product exhibits an extremely strong temperature dependence upon using an excitation wavelength of 532 nm. This effect allows for specific differentiation between the two major Sm(II) sites associated with this compound. Based on the assignment of the emission features to specific sites, the symmetry of the first samarium environment is thought to be C3 or C3v while that associated with the second site appears to be C2v.
Relationship Between BMI and Fatigability Is Task Dependent
Authors: Mehta Ranjana K. , Cavuoto Lora Anne
Published: March 2017

Objective:

The objective of the current study was to determine the effect of body mass index (BMI) on fatigability of three different muscle groups at four different work intensities.

Methods:

Forty-nine normal-weight, 50 overweight, and 43 obese adults (32.1 ± 9.2 years; 50% males) performed fatiguing handgrip, shoulder flexion, and trunk extension exertions at 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of the associated maximum voluntary contractions.

Results:

Obese adults demonstrated 22% to 30% shorter endurance times than normal-weight adults, but this was only observed at lower intensities and with larger and more postural muscles of the shoulder and low back. Strength and fatigue-related strength loss remained comparable across BMI groups in both males and females in these task-specific conditions. Obesity was associated with faster progression in perception of effort at low-intensity shoulder and trunk exertions. While males were stronger than females across all muscle groups, females exhibited greater shoulder fatigue resistance than males at lower intensity levels.

Conclusion:

Findings indicate that the relationship between obesity and fatigability is task dependent.

Application:

These findings provide initial evidence on the impact of obesity on worker capacity. Future work that extends the current investigation to include more occupationally relevant scenarios are needed to facilitate occupational task (re)design and assessment practices, such that altered work capacities of two-thirds of the working population are accommodated.
The expansion of developmental social work in Southern and East Africa: Opportunities and challenges for social work field programmes
Authors: Gray Mel , Agllias Kylie , Mupedziswa Rodreck , Mugumbate Jacob
Published: March 2017

This article reports on a study that examined how fieldwork education in Southern and East Africa was responding to the developmental social work agenda. The study used semi-structured qualitative interviews with key informants from 15 social work programmes in 11 different Southern and East African countries. It investigated whether the social work fieldwork placements on offer provided practical experience of a developmental approach to social work practice. The study showed the creativity and enthusiasm with which social work educators were embracing the goals of developmental social work education, despite the pitfalls and limitations of doing this within fieldwork resource constraints.
Microdebond test development and interfacial shear strength evaluation of basalt and glass fibre reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Zykaite R , Purgleitner B , Stadlbauer W , Burgstaller C
Published: March 2017

Interfacial adhesion of basalt and glass fibre reinforced polypropylene composites was studied using microdebond testing technique. A focus was put on a simple approach of applying extruded thermoplastic films as a matrix material for microdroplet formation. The ability of different viscosity and thickness polypropylene films to form symmetrical droplets under a temperature range of 200–240℃ was evaluated. Emphasis was put on polypropylene matrix chemistry, silane fibre surface treatment and testing loading rate impact on interfacial performance change in polypropylene-basalt fibre and polypropylene-glass fibre microcomposites. It was found that it was possible to obtain high symmetrical droplet yield out of polypropylene films of melt flow rate 50 and 125 g/10 min and 55–85 µm thickness at 240℃. The presence of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene coupling agent increased the interfacial shear strength significantly. Microcomposites with glass fibre had higher interfacial shear strength in comparison with the used basalt fibre, mainly due to the difference in their sizing. Various silane-based fibre surface coatings did not result in significant interfacial adhesion changes. Polypropylene-glass fibre microcomposite interfacial shear strength at 0.5, 3.0 and 10.0 mm min–1 loading rates had similar values with high maximum pull-out force scatter at 0.5 and 3.0 mm min–1 loading rates and low scatter at 10.0 mm min–1.
Television News and the Making of the Boston Busing Crisis
Authors: Delmont Matthew
Published: March 2017

People outside of Boston came to know and care about the city’s “busing crisis” because television news featured the story regularly and this essay examines how television news framed this story for national audiences. This essay illuminates the production techniques of a medium that framed the “busing crisis” in Boston for millions of national viewers. First, I examine how the television coverage of Boston busing in the mid-1970s focused on reports, analysis, and predictions regarding antibusing protests and violence. This day-to-day focus on current and emergent scenes of crisis ignored the history of desegregation efforts since the 1960s, including those that received television coverage in earlier years, like the community-funded Operation Exodus program to bus black children to schools in other neighborhoods and the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare’s suspension of federal school aid to Boston for violating the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Second, I consider how television news framed the use of force in the Boston busing story. Much of the footage from Boston focused on confrontations between antibusing protestors and authorities from the Boston Police and other law enforcement. Third, I look at how television news offered viewers background reports on two of the places at the center of the busing story, South Boston and Charlestown. Finally, I analyze how local television news programs in other cities presented busing in Boston as a failed policy and regularly replayed the archived footage from Boston to underscore efforts to educate viewers on the importance of upholding the law and avoiding violence. Boston was neither the first nor the last city to witness violent resistance to school desegregation, but extensive television news coverage fixed Boston as the emblematic busing crisis and shaped popular conceptions of the history of busing for school desegregation.
The Effects of Conducting a Functional Analysis on Problem Behavior in Other Settings: A Descriptive Study on Potential Interaction Effects
Authors: Call Nathan A. , Reavis Andrea R. , Clark Seth B. , Parks Natalie A. , Cariveau Tom , Muething Colin S.
Published: March 2017

It has been suggested that reinforcing problem behavior during functional analyses (FAs) may raise ethical questions, such as resulting in an increase in problem behavior outside of FA sessions. The current translational study assessed whether conducting an FA resulted in increases in problem behavior outside of the FA setting for six participants using a nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants design. The rate of problem behavior was measured outside the FA setting prior to and during an FA. Idiosyncratic results suggest that problem behavior outside of the FA setting may increase, decrease, or be unaffected by conducting an FA.
Prevalence and Trends in Morbidity and Disability Among Older Mexican Americans in the Southwestern United States, 1993–2013
Authors: Garcia Marc A. , Reyes Adriana M.
Published: March 2017

This study examines the prevalence of morbidity and disability among older Mexican Americans using 5-year age groups. Twenty-year panel data from the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly are used to make detailed comparisons by nativity and gender. Results show that prevalence rates for most chronic conditions for both males and females do not vary by nativity. For disabilities, nativity is a significant predictor of increased instrumental activity of daily living disability for foreign-born females and reduced activity of daily living disability for U.S.-born males. Additionally, results show significant interactions between nativity and age cohorts, with the gap increasing with age for males and decreasing with age for females. These results have important implications for health services and health policy. Given the rapid aging of the Mexican American population, the prevention and treatment of medical conditions, particularly among the foreign-born, should be a major public health priority to reduce dependence from disabilities.
A 10‐Year Analysis of Head and Neck Injuries Involving Nonpowder Firearms
Authors: Dandu Kartik V. , Carniol Eric T. , Sanghvi Saurin , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Firearms have an enduring and visible presence within American culture. However, the public health impact of nonpowder firearms and other “toy” guns has not been fully studied. These guns—including BB guns (ie, ball bearing), paintball guns, and pellet guns—are typically marketed to a younger audience. The objective of this study is to analyze head and neck injuries related to nonpowder firearms.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of a national database.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for head and neck injuries involving nonpowder guns, including air, BB, and pellet guns, and associated ammunition. Analysis of age, sex, incidence, injury location, and diagnosis was performed.

Results

From 2005 to 2014, there were 1695 cases recorded, or 55,060 estimated emergency room visits, due to injuries related to nonpowder guns and fired ammunition. The majority of patients were male (80.9%). These injuries were most common in children 6 to 12 years of age (37.9%), followed by those 13 to 18 years old (27.1%) and adults (≥19 years old; 17.8%), while preschool children (0‐5 years) represented 17.2%. The most common injury diagnosis was penetrating foreign body (34.9%), followed by lacerations (24.3%) and contusions/abrasions (13.7%).

Conclusion

Nonpowder and other nonlethal firearm‐related injuries to the head and neck region are a frequent source of emergency room visits nationally. Safety measures and public education on a mainstream level are required.
A New Technique for Percutaneous Tracheotomy
Authors: Margolin Gregori , Ullman Johan , Karling Jonas
Published: March 2017

The objective of this study was to investigate a new technique for tracheal puncture during percutaneous dilatational tracheotomy (PDT). A new invention, known as SafeTrach, was used: this instrument allows exact localization of the puncture site with built‐in protection of the posterior tracheal wall. Surgery was performed on 17 patients with this technique, and our experience is described in this report. The results showed that this new technique minimizes known risk factors compared with existing PDT techniques, including patients with disadvantageous anatomy.
Atelectasis after airway extubation during veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support
Authors: Wang Hong , Jia Ming , Mao Bin , Hou Xiaotong
Published: March 2017

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) is used in cardiopulmonary failure patients to provide temporary assisted circulation. Usually, prolonged intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation are required in patients with ECMO support. We report on two cases of patients who had no pre-existing injuries of the affected lung, underwent VA ECMO support after open-heart surgery and received airway extubation (AE) or awake ECMO with the recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction. Atelectasis happened after AE and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation attenuated the atelectasis of one patient. The atelectasis of the other patient was corrected 10 hours after weaning from ECMO. Both patients were discharged successfully. Awake VA ECMO for post-cardiac surgery patients should be performed with prudence and needs further research.
High-speed bounding with the MIT Cheetah 2: Control design and experiments
Authors: Park Hae-Won , Wensing Patrick M , Kim Sangbae
Published: March 2017

This paper presents the design and implementation of a bounding controller for the MIT Cheetah 2 and its experimental results. The paper introduces the architecture of the controller along with the functional roles of its subcomponents. The application of impulse scaling provides feedforward force profiles that automatically adapt across a wide range of speeds. A discrete gait pattern stabilizer maintains the footfall sequence and timing. Continuous feedback is layered to manage balance during the stance phase. Stable hybrid limit cycles are exhibited in simulation using simplified models, and are further validated in untethered three-dimensional bounding experiments. Experiments are conducted both indoors and outdoors on various man-made and natural terrains. The control framework is shown to provide stable bounding in the hardware, at speeds of up to 6.4 m/s and with a minimum total cost of transport of 0.47. These results are unprecedented accomplishments in terms of efficiency and speed in untethered experimental quadruped machines.
An assessment of the current treatment landscape for rheumatology patients in Qatar: Recognising unmet needs and moving towards solutions
Authors: Emadi Samar Al , Hammoudeh Mohammed , Mounir Mohamed , Mueller Ruediger B. , Wells Alvin F. , Sarakbi Housam Aldeen
Published: March 2017

Objective

This study assessed the mode of application (oral, intravenous or subcutaneous (SC)) currently employed in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients from Qatar in comparison with patients’ individual preferences for the mode of application of their treatment.

Methods

This study included 294 RA patients visiting three clinics at the main referral hospital in Qatar who were interviewed using a standard questionnaire to determine their preference of mode of application for their disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) treatment in relation to their currently employed mode of application.

Results

The majority of patients were female (76%), and 93% of male patients and 61% of female patients in the study clinics were of a nationality other than Qatari. The highest patient preference recorded was for an oral therapy (69%), compared with injection (23%) and intravenous (8%) therapy. In total, 85% of patients expressed a preference to remain on oral therapy compared with 63% and 58% of intravenous and SC injection patients indicating a preference to remain on their current method of administration.

Conclusions

This high preference for oral therapies highlights the considerable need for incorporation of new oral targeted synthetic DMARD therapies into clinical practice within the region.
Influence of etanercept on leptin and ghrelin secretion in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Maciejewska-Paszek Izabela , Grochowska-Niedworok Elżbieta , Siwiec Andrzej , Gruenpeter Anna , Dul Lechosław , Irzyniec Tomasz
Published: March 2017

Objective

To assess possible changes in leptin and ghrelin secretion due to etanercept in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

50 patients with JIA and 16 age-matched controls were enrolled into this prospective, cross-sectional study. Serum leptin, total and acyl ghrelin were measured in addition to white blood cell (WBC) and lymphocyte counts.

Results

25 patients received etanercept and 25 conventional therapies (including methotrexate) for JIA. There was no difference between treatment and control groups in leptin or ghrelin levels and no evidence of a relationship between leptin and ghrelin in patients with JIA. In all children with JIA there was a correlation between leptin and body mass index (BMI). However, compared with children in the conventional treatment group, children in the etanercept group showed a positive correlation between total ghrelin and BMI and those with a low BMI showed a negative correlation between acyl ghrelin and BMI.

Conclusion

No differences in leptin and ghrelin concentrations were found when patients with JIA and controls were compared or when patients who received etanercept were compared with those who received conventional treatment for JIA.
Paediatric headache trajectories – a reappraisal after nine years
Authors: Isensee Corinna , Hagmayer York , Fernandez Castelao Carolin , Kröner-Herwig Birgit
Published: March 2017

Background

The long-term consequences of paediatric headache can involve functional disabilities and mental health problems in adulthood.

Objective

To analyse the predictive power of paediatric headache trajectory classes for headache and related outcomes in adulthood.

Methods

In a previous study, a population-based sample (N = 3227, 9–14 years of age at first assessment) was followed across four annual assessment points, and sex-specific headache trajectory classes were identified (girls: “no pain”, “moderate pain”, “increasing pain”, “high pain”; boys: “no pain”, “moderate pain”). These trajectory classes were used to predict headache frequency, functional disability, depression, quality of life and self-efficacy nine years later (N = 994). Negative binomial regression analyses and pairwise comparisons were computed.

Results

Women showing an elevated trajectory (“increasing pain” or “high pain”) had a higher adult headache frequency and a poorer outcome on associated variables (functional disability, depression, quality of life, and self-efficacy) than women having a lower-level trajectory. Men of the “no pain” and “moderate pain” trajectory classes differed significantly from one another in their headache frequency and related variables.

Conclusion

Belonging to an elevated paediatric headache trajectory class involves a considerable risk for headache and headache-related problems in adulthood.
Occupational Future Time Perspective and Successful Aging at Work
Authors: Cheung Francis , Yeung Dannii Y. , Wu Anise M. S.
Published: March 2017

In this study, we examine whether occupational future time perspective, developmental proactivity, and cognitive constraints (attention and concentration, planning and organization) are related to successful aging in the workplace. We also test whether occupational future time perspective and developmental proactivity moderate the association between cognitive constraints and successful aging in the workplace. A total of 350 Chinese working adults in Hong Kong (mean = 51.88, standard deviation = 5.15) were recruited in this study. Results suggested that occupational future time perspective, developmental proactivity, and cognitive constraints (planning and organization) were significant predictors of successful aging in the workplace. Results did not support the moderating hypotheses.
Apprentices’ Affective Occupational Commitment During Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Salzmann Patrizia , Berweger Simone , Ark Tavinder K.
Published: March 2017

Affective occupational commitment (AOC) during training is considered to prevent occupational turnover and positively influence later work-related outcomes and learning processes. However, little is known about AOC development in a training context. This study examines antecedents and consequences of AOC and its development during vocational education and training. Participants were 497 Swiss apprentices who took part in a longitudinal survey throughout their 3-year training program. The results of latent growth curve modeling showed a slight average decrease in AOC over time. Initial AOC was negatively related to occupational turnover intention and positively related to satisfaction with the apprenticeship. Perceived person–occupation fit and feelings of competence during in-company training were positively correlated with initial AOC. Change in AOC was the smallest when apprentices felt autonomous and larger when they felt competent. The results indicate how in-company training environments can be arranged that foster apprentices’ AOC.
Behavior of gasketed bolted pipe flange joint under combined internal pressure, axial, and bending load: Three-dimensional numerical study
Authors: Abid Muhammad , Khan Niaz B
Published: March 2017

Optimized performance of joint is categorized by its “structural integrity” and “sealing capability”. In literature, limited data are available regarding the performance of gasketed bolted flanged joint under combined internal and external loading; hence an optimized joint performance cannot be addressed. In this paper, a detailed three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis of bolted gasketed flange joint is performed, to study its performance under combined internal (pressure) and external (axial and bending) load. Results of the finite element analysis are compared with the experimental results available in literature providing the validation of the numerical approach developed.
Characteristics of clients currently accessing a national online alcohol and drug counselling service
Authors: Garde Erin L , Manning Victoria , Lubman Dan I
Published: March 2017

Objective:

Multiple barriers contribute to low rates of help-seeking for problematic alcohol and other drug (AOD) use in Australia, and highlight the importance of flexible delivery models. This study explored the characteristics of clients accessing a national AOD online counselling service (Counselling Online) over time and across jurisdictions.

Method:

2003 clients completed a brief demographics questionnaire before commencing their Counselling Online session. Demographic (e.g. gender, primary drug of concern) and service provision (timing of session, length of session) characteristics were explored to build a profile of individuals accessing online support for AOD concerns.

Results:

Service provision and client characteristics remained relatively stable over time; alcohol remained the most common drug of concern, but methamphetamines overtook cannabis as the second most common drug of concern. Consistency in characteristics was also observed across states and territories, except for clients in the Northern Territory, where amphetamines were the most common primary drug of concern, and counselling sessions were significantly longer.

Discussion:

Counselling Online continues to be a wide-reaching, easily accessible service for those concerned about their or others substance use. The characteristics of clients who access the service also suggest that it is responsive to contemporary needs and concerns.
Novel biotherapies are needed in youth mental health
Authors: Amminger G Paul , Berger Maximus , Rice Simon M , Davey Christopher G , Schäfer Miriam R , McGorry Patrick D
Published: March 2017

Adverse effects and lack of efficacy in a significant number of patients limit pharmaceutical interventions in youth psychiatry. This is exemplified by the fact that no medication is currently approved for the treatment of non-OCD anxiety disorders or major depressive disorder in young people younger than 18 years of age in Australia. Here, emerging biological therapies for youth with mental health problems are discussed. There is an urgent need for more research into biological interventions with acceptable risk–benefit balances. Omega-3 fatty acids, cannabidiol and N-acetylcysteine are currently being evaluated. If initial findings are confirmed, they may offer alternatives with more benign side-effect profiles than existing treatments.
Variations in Adolescent Purpose in Life and Their Association With Lifetime Substance Use
Authors: Abramoski Kathryn , Pierce Jennifer , Hauck Corinne , Stoddard Sarah
Published: March 2017

Purpose in life (PIL) promotes positive development and is associated with decreased substance use. However, to our knowledge, researchers have not investigated how different categories of PIL are associated with substance use behavior among youth. Therefore, we sought to explore categories of PIL and how they are related to substance use in a sample of adolescents. Ninth through 12th-grade students from a high school in a Midwest suburban community completed a paper-and-pencil survey ( n = 408, Mage = 15.36, SD = 1.21; 50% female; 72% White). Measures included lifetime substance use and categories of PIL. Exploratory factor analyses suggest that there are three categories of PIL. Alcohol and other drug (ATOD) use was inversely related with broad other-promoting PIL, while a broad self-promoting PIL was positively associated with ATOD use. These findings suggest that exploring PIL with students may reduce substance use behavior.
Length scale-dependent natural frequencies of piezoelectric microplates
Authors: Jafari M , Jomehzadeh E , Rezaeizadeh M
Published: March 2017

The length-scale free vibration analysis of a rectangular microplate coupled with piezoelectric layers is presented. The modified couple stress theory is used to describe the size effect of the system. The governing equations of motion are obtained using Hamilton’s principle based on the classical plate theory. The transverse part of the electric potential for the piezoelectric layers is considered to satisfy the Maxwell’s equation and the electrical boundary conditions. A new procedure is introduced to decouple the governing equations and then an analytical Levy-type solution is obtained. The exact natural frequencies are established for a wide range of length scales, various plate dimensions, several piezoelectric layer thicknesses, and different boundary conditions. The results show that the effect of length scale parameter is decreased by the piezoelectric electrical field.
Financial Performance of Health Insurers: State-Run Versus Federal-Run Exchanges
Authors: Hall Mark A. , McCue Michael J. , Palazzolo Jennifer R.
Published: March 2017

Many insurers incurred financial losses in individual markets for health insurance during 2014, the first year of Affordable Care Act mandated changes. This analysis looks at key financial ratios of insurers to compare profitability in 2014 and 2013, identify factors driving financial performance, and contrast the financial performance of health insurers operating in state-run exchanges versus the federal exchange. Overall, the median loss of sampled insurers was −3.9%, no greater than their loss in 2013. Reduced administrative costs offset increases in medical losses. Insurers performed better in states with state-run exchanges than insurers in states using the federal exchange in 2014. Medical loss ratios are the underlying driver more than administrative costs in the difference in performance between states with federal versus state-run exchanges. Policy makers looking to improve the financial performance of the individual market should focus on features that differentiate the markets associated with state-run versus federal exchanges.
Equal opportunities in the postdoctoral phase in Germany?
Authors: Baader Meike Sophia , Böhringer Daniela , Korff Svea , Roman Navina
Published: March 2017

This paper discusses results of a research project on equal opportunities between women and men in the postdoctoral phase in German universities. It illustrates how the funding system is organized and whether this contributes to more equal opportunities for men and women, especially concerning the work–life interference. Although the system loses women after the doctorial phase, equal opportunity is not a core issue in the promotion of postdoctoral researchers in Germany. Instead, it tends to be addressed indirectly via an array of different compensatory support programmes. One key finding is that certain programmes, such as ‘coaching’, ‘networking’, ‘mentoring’ or financial support, are not offered everywhere, and therefore many postdoctoral researchers do not have the opportunity to utilize them. Furthermore, we found evidence of a gender-specific demand for support programmes. Another finding was that work–life interferences in scientific careers are not addressed by support programmes. The organization of everyday life is not taken into account. Given the context of uncertain career paths in Germany and the unequal working conditions of women and men in academia in Germany, it becomes clear that equal opportunities cannot be realized by ignoring the informal and gendered handling of work-life-balance.
A study of off-design performance improvement for a centrifugal refrigerant compressor
Authors: Hung Kuo-Shu , Chung Jenn-Chyi , Liu Chung-Che , Huang Jeng-Min
Published: March 2017

This study numerically investigates the effects of changing vaned diffuser angles and vaneless diffuser widths of a two-stage centrifugal refrigerant compressor on the reduction of surge flow rate and the improvement of part-load performance. The first stage has a low-solidity vaned diffuser, while the second stage has a vaneless diffuser. The analysis results show that adjusting the angle of low-solidity vaned diffuser in the first stage can lower the surge flow rate and keeps high efficiencies at low flow rates. The inlet guide vane of the first stage can also lower the surge flow rate; however, their simultaneous actuation cannot lower the surge flow rate further. Reducing the vaneless diffuser width of the second stage can lower the surge flow rate. Meanwhile, simultaneously adjusting the individual inlet guide vanes of the second stage can also effectively lower the surge flow rate. If the diffuser width of the first stage is reduced while the low-solidity vaned diffuser blade angle is fixed, the surge flow rate will be lowered obviously as the inlet guide vane is adjusted. However, reduction in diffuser width decreases the efficiency at low flow rate. Controlling the inlet guide vane and diffuser width well can lower the surge flow rate to 30% of the design flow.
Analysis of an ordinal endpoint for use in evaluating treatments for severe influenza requiring hospitalization
Authors: Peterson Ross L , Vock David M , Powers John H , Emery Sean , Cruz Eduardo Fernandez , Hunsberger Sally , Jain Mamta K , Pett Sarah , Neaton James D ,   for the INSIGHT FLU-IVIG Study Group
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims

A single best endpoint for evaluating treatments of severe influenza requiring hospitalization has not been identified. A novel six-category ordinal endpoint of patient status is being used in a randomized controlled trial (FLU-Intravenous Immunoglobulin - FLU-IVIG) of intravenous immunoglobulin. We systematically examine four factors regarding the use of this ordinal endpoint that may affect power from fitting a proportional odds model: (1) deviations from the proportional odds assumption which result in the same overall treatment effect as specified in the FLU-IVIG protocol and which result in a diminished overall treatment effect, (2) deviations from the distribution of the placebo group assumed in the FLU-IVIG design, (3) the effect of patient misclassification among the six categories, and (4) the number of categories of the ordinal endpoint. We also consider interactions between the treatment effect (i.e. factor 1) and each other factor.

Methods

We conducted a Monte Carlo simulation study to assess the effect of each factor. To study factor 1, we developed an algorithm for deriving distributions of the ordinal endpoint in the two treatment groups that deviated from proportional odds while maintaining the same overall treatment effect. For factor 2, we considered placebo group distributions which were more or less skewed than the one specified in the FLU-IVIG protocol by adding or subtracting a constant from the cumulative log odds. To assess factor 3, we added misclassification between adjacent pairs of categories that depend on subjective patient/clinician assessments. For factor 4, we collapsed some categories into single categories.

Results

Deviations from proportional odds reduced power at most from 80% to 77% given the same overall treatment effect as specified in the FLU-IVIG protocol. Misclassification and collapsing categories can reduce power by over 40 and 10 percentage points, respectively, when they affect categories with many patients and a discernible treatment effect. But collapsing categories that contain no treatment effect can raise power by over 20 percentage points. Differences in the distribution of the placebo group can raise power by over 20 percentage points or reduce power by over 40 percentage points depending on how patients are shifted to portions of the ordinal endpoint with a large treatment effect.

Conclusion

Provided that the overall treatment effect is maintained, deviations from proportional odds marginally reduce power. However, deviations from proportional odds can modify the effect of misclassification, the number of categories, and the distribution of the placebo group on power. In general, adjacent pairs of categories with many patients should be kept separate to help ensure that power is maintained at the pre-specified level.
The effects of principals’ communication practices on teachers’ emotional distress
Authors: Berkovich Izhak , Eyal Ori
Published: March 2017

Educational leadership plays a significant role in school success, through its effects on teachers’ emotions, attitudes, and behaviours. However, the knowledge of how school leaders influence teachers’ emotions is very limited. Most existing evidence focuses on general explanations that are not the result of controlled research designs, which is why we lack solid operative knowledge on principals’ emotional support of teachers in emotional distress. The present study seeks to address this lacuna. Our approach focuses on interpersonal communication, aimed at expanding the operative knowledge about emotionally supportive communication in principal–teacher relations. The study is based on the experimental vignette method, which makes it possible to infer causality. The data were collected using a sample of 113 primary school teachers. The study found that principals’ empathic listening is associated with greater attributed emotional reframing (i.e. positive emotional change), irrespective of the message that principals communicate; however, it is only the presence of a reframing message, whether empowering or normalising, that influences the actual reframing of negative affect.
Longitudinal change in pulmonary arterial capacitance as an indicator of prognosis and response to therapy and in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Medrek Sarah K. , Kloefkorn Chad , Nguyen Duc T.M. , Graviss Edward A. , Frost Adaani E. , Safdar Zeenat
Published: March 2017

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a chronic progressive disease that leads to right heart failure and death. Pulmonary arterial capacitance (PAC), defined as stroke volume divided by the pulmonary pulse pressure, has been identified as a prognostic factor in PAH. The impact of changes in PAC over time, however, is unclear. We evaluated changes in PAC over time to determine if such changes predicted transplant‐free survival. A single‐center retrospective study of consecutive group 1 PAH patients who had two or more right heart catheterizations (RHC) between January 2007 and June 2016 was undertaken. Hemodynamic data, clinical data, and outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional‐hazards modelling to identify the contribution of risk factors for a composite outcome of death or lung transplantation was done. Mixed‐effects logistic regression was performed to investigate the association between the change in PAC value over time and the composite outcome. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant. In total, 109 consecutive patients with a total of 300 RHC data were identified. PAC correlated inversely with functional status (P < 0.001) and inversely with pulmonary vascular resistance (P < 0.001). PAC values increased with the addition of new PAH‐specific medications. Mixed effects logistic regression modeling using longitudinal data showed that a decrease in PAC over the study period was associated with increased mortality and transplantation (adjusted P = 0.039) over the study period. Change in PAC was a better predictor of outcome over the study period than baseline PAC or changes in other hemodynamic or clinical parameters. Decreases in PAC were predictive of increased mortality or transplantation in patients with group 1 PAH. There was a trend towards increased PAC in response to the addition of a PAH‐specific medication. Our data support the use of PAC as a therapeutic target in PAH.