bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commentary: Evolution of Positive Behavior Support and Future Directions
Authors: Knoster Tim
Published: December 2017

The field of Positive Behavior Support has expanded and evolved significantly since the first issue of Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions (JPBI) was published. This growth is further evidenced through application of Positive Behavior Support across various contexts (home, school, and community settings), populations (young children, school populations including students with disabilities, and adults) as well as, from a research perspective, units of analysis (Positive Behavior Support provided with individuals and entire systems). This commentary highlights both challenges and opportunities associated with the expanded application of Positive Behavior Support.
Staying True to Our PBS Roots in a Changing World
Authors: Kincaid Don
Published: December 2017

The field of Positive Behavior Support (PBS) has grown and changed significantly in the past 25 years and should be expected to continue that trend for the next 25 years. These changes cannot always be predicted, but they can be managed by considering some current changes to the definition of PBS (Kincaid et al., 2016). This paper discussed how PBS can remain close to its empirical and philosophical roots by attending to five key features that include (a) research-based assessment, intervention, and data-based decision making; (b) building social and other functional competencies, creating supportive contexts, and preventing the occurrence of problem behaviors; (c) being respectful of a person’s (or group’s) dignity and overall well-being; (d) being open to data from a variety of fields and evidence-based procedures; and (e) application within a multi-tiered framework at the level of the individual and the level of the larger systems (e.g., families, classrooms, schools, social service programs, and facilities). The paper also considers some strategies for keeping the critical components of PBS in the minds of researchers and readers.
Virus Database and Online Inquiry System Based on Natural Vectors
Authors: Dong Rui , Zheng Hui , Tian Kun , Yau Shek-Chung , Mao Weiguang , Yu Wenping , Yin Changchuan , Yu Chenglong , He Rong Lucy , Yang Jie , Yau Stephen ST
Published: December 2017

We construct a virus database called VirusDB ( http://yaulab.math.tsinghua.edu.cn/VirusDB/ ) and an online inquiry system to serve people who are interested in viral classification and prediction. The database stores all viral genomes, their corresponding natural vectors, and the classification information of the single/multiple-segmented viral reference sequences downloaded from National Center for Biotechnology Information. The online inquiry system serves the purpose of computing natural vectors and their distances based on submitted genomes, providing an online interface for accessing and using the database for viral classification and prediction, and back-end processes for automatic and manual updating of database content to synchronize with GenBank. Submitted genomes data in FASTA format will be carried out and the prediction results with 5 closest neighbors and their classifications will be returned by email. Considering the one-to-one correspondence between sequence and natural vector, time efficiency, and high accuracy, natural vector is a significant advance compared with alignment methods, which makes VirusDB a useful database in further research.
Selection of X-chromosome Inactivation Model
Authors: Wang Jian , Talluri Rajesh , Shete Sanjay
Published: December 2017

To address the complexity of the X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) process, we previously developed a unified approach for the association test for X-chromosomal single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the disease of interest, accounting for different biological possibilities of XCI: random, skewed, and escaping XCI. In the original study, we focused on the SNP-disease association test but did not provide knowledge regarding the underlying XCI models. One can use the highest likelihood ratio (LLR) to select XCI models (max-LLR approach). However, that approach does not formally compare the LLRs corresponding to different XCI models to assess whether the models are distinguishable. Therefore, we propose an LLR comparison procedure (comp-LLR approach), inspired by the Cox test, to formally compare the LLRs of different XCI models to select the most likely XCI model that describes the underlying XCI process. We conduct simulation studies to investigate the max-LLR and comp-LLR approaches. The simulation results show that compared with the max-LLR, the comp-LLR approach has higher probability of identifying the correct underlying XCI model for the scenarios when the underlying XCI process is random XCI, escaping XCI, or skewed XCI to the deleterious allele. We applied both approaches to a head and neck cancer genetic study to investigate the underlying XCI processes for the X-chromosomal genetic variants.
R Script Approach to Infer Toxoplasma Infection Mechanisms From Microarrays and Domain-Domain Protein Interactions
Authors: Arenas Ailan F , Salcedo Gladys E , Gomez-Marin Jorge E
Published: December 2017

Pathogen-host protein-protein interaction systems examine the interactions between the protein repertoires of 2 distinct organisms. Some of these pathogen proteins interact with the host protein system and may manipulate it for their own advantages. In this work, we designed an R script by concatenating 2 functions called rowDM and rowCVmed to infer pathogen-host interaction using previously reported microarray data, including host gene enrichment analysis and the crossing of interspecific domain-domain interactions. We applied this script to the Toxoplasma-host system to describe pathogen survival mechanisms from human, mouse, and Toxoplasma Gene Expression Omnibus series. Our outcomes exhibited similar results with previously reported microarray analyses, but we found other important proteins that could contribute to toxoplasma pathogenesis. We observed that Toxoplasma ROP38 is the most differentially expressed protein among toxoplasma strains. Enrichment analysis and KEGG mapping indicated that the human retinal genes most affected by Toxoplasma infections are those related to antiapoptotic mechanisms. We suggest that proteins PIK3R1, PRKCA, PRKCG, PRKCB, HRAS, and c-JUN could be the possible substrates for differentially expressed Toxoplasma kinase ROP38. Likewise, we propose that Toxoplasma causes overexpression of apoptotic suppression human genes.
Trophic Status Assessment of Saguling Reservoir, Upper Citarum Basin, Indonesia
Authors: Marselina Mariana , Burhanudin Muhamad
Published: December 2017

This study examined the water quality of Saguling Reservoir as potential raw water for Bandung metropolitan area. Determination of water quality in this study consisted of trophic status determination based on total phosphorus, total nitrogen (ammonia and nitrate), and water clarity. Data were obtained 4 times a year for 16 years (1999-2013). We determined the overall water quality status by comparing data with criteria specified in Ministerial Regulation (Permen) of the Environment Number 28 of 2009 on the Water Pollution Load Capacity of Lakes or Reservoirs. Data from 11 stations were analyzed, which indicated a hypertrophic state with very high pollution. Nanjung Post (upstream of the reservoir) had the highest levels of total P, total N, and chlorophyll a compared with the Muara Ciminyak Post and Muara Intake Post (the middle and downstream regions of the reservoir). Seasonal changes had no effect on the trophic status, regardless of dry, normal, or wet conditions.
Structure and Function of Caltrin (

Cal

cium

Tr

ansport

In

hibitor) Proteins
Authors: Grasso Ernesto Javier , Coronel Carlos Enrique
Published: December 2017

Caltrin (calcium transport inhibitor) is a family of small and basic proteins of the mammalian seminal plasma which bind to sperm cells during ejaculation and inhibit the extracellular Ca2+uptake, preventing the premature acrosomal exocytosis and hyperactivation when sperm cells ascend through the female reproductive tract. The binding of caltrin proteins to specific areas of the sperm surface suggests the existence of caltrin receptors, or precise protein-phospholipid arrangements in the sperm membrane, distributed in the regions where Ca2+influx may take place. However, the molecular mechanisms of recognition and interaction between caltrin and spermatozoa have not been elucidated. Therefore, the aim of this article is to describe in depth the known structural features and functional properties of caltrin proteins, to find out how they may possibly interact with the sperm membranes to control the intracellular signaling that trigger physiological events required for fertilization.
Enzyme Immobilization on Nanoporous Gold: A Review
Authors: Stine Keith J
Published: December 2017

Nanoporous gold (referred to as np-Au or NPG) has emerged over the past 10 years as a new support for enzyme immobilization. The material has appealing features of ease of preparation, tunability of pore size, high surface to volume ratio, and compatibility with multiple strategies for enzyme immobilization. The np-Au material is especially of interest for immobilization of redox enzymes for biosensor and biofuel cell applications given the ability to construct electrodes of high surface area and stability. Adjustment of the pore size of np-Au can yield enhancements in enzyme thermal stability. Glucose oxidase immobilization on np-Au has been a focus for development of glucose sensors. Immobilization of laccase and related enzymes has demonstrated the utility of np-Au for construction of biofuel cells. Np-Au has been used to immobilize other redox enzymes, enzyme conjugates for use in bioassays, and enzymes of interest for industrial processes.
Case Series: Spontaneous Relapse After Recovery From Peripartum Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mahowald Madeline K , Davis Melinda
Published: December 2017

Background:

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a distinct type of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (EF) with variable outcomes. Rates of recovery range from 29% to 72% and mortality rates range from 0% to 25%. In studies, outcomes are often determined at 6 to 12 months following diagnosis, and many of those who recover stop following with cardiology and are lost to follow-up.

Case report:

Patient 1 was a 25-year-old G2P1 who was diagnosed with PPCM 5 days after childbirth with an EF of 25%. Initially, her EF improved and first normalized at 4.1 years after diagnosis. It subsequently dropped to 30% without clear heart failure symptoms or identifiable trigger and 1 year later normalized again to an EF of 60%. Patient 2 was a 36-year-old G6P3 who was diagnosed with PPCM 6 weeks after the birth of her third child when echocardiogram revealed an EF of 10%. Time to EF normalization was 3.0 years after diagnosis when her EF was measured at 55%. She remained without symptoms of heart failure for the first 8 years after diagnosis when she developed dyspnea on exertion and lower extremity edema; EF at that time declined to a nadir of 42.5% without apparent cause.

Conclusions:

Women with PPCM can have an unpredictable course, and those who appear to have recovered may have unrecognized subclinical dysfunction that places them at risk for future injury or deterioration.
A Review of the Factors Associated With the Timely Initiation of Breastfeeding and Exclusive Breastfeeding in the Middle East
Authors: Alzaheb Riyadh A
Published: December 2017

Background:

Breastfeeding supplies all the nutrients that infants need for their healthy development. Breastfeeding practice is multifactorial, and numerous variables influence mothers’ decisions and ability to breastfeed. This review identifies the factors potentially affecting the timely initiation of breastfeeding within an hour after birth and exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months in Middle Eastern countries.

Methods:

The Medline, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases were keyword-searched for primary studies meeting the following inclusion criteria: (1) publication in the English language between January 2001 and May 2017, (2) original research articles reporting primary data on the factors influencing the timely initiation of breastfeeding and/or exclusive breastfeeding, (3) the use of World Health Organization definitions, and (4) Middle Eastern research contexts. A random effect model was used to establish the average prevalence of the timely initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding in the Middle East.

Results:

The review identified 19 studies conducted in Saudi Arabia (7), Iran (3), Egypt (2), Turkey (2), Kuwait (1), the United Arab Emirates (1), Qatar (1), Lebanon (1), and Syria (1). The meta-analysis established that 34.3% (confidence interval [CI]: 20.2%-51.9%) of Middle Eastern newborns received breastfeeding initiated within an hour of birth, and only 20.5% (CI: 14.5%-28.2%) were fed only breast milk for the first 6 months. The 8 studies exploring breastfeeding initiation most commonly associated it with the following: delivery mode, maternal employment, rooming-in, and prelacteal feeding. The 17 studies investigating exclusive breastfeeding most frequently linked it to the following: maternal age, maternal education, maternal employment, and delivery mode.

Conclusions:

Middle Eastern health care organizations should fully understand all the determinants of breastfeeding identified by this review to provide suitable practical guidance and advice to help new mothers to overcome barriers where possible and to contribute to improving infant and maternal health in the region.
The Performative Space of Festival: From Bataille to Butler
Authors: Igrek Apple
Published: December 2017

In this article, I attend to several theories of festival, laughter, and performativity in which the suspension of customary norms is analyzed mainly by way of cultural and political strategies (as with Judith Butler and Richard N. Lancaster), or in reference to a performative space that exceeds such tactical and strategic projects. Georges Bataille has been especially influential to the second group, as we have seen in the recent scholarship of Tiina Arppe, Kevin E. McHugh, and Ann M. Fletchall. These writers tend to read the transgressive moments of festival in terms of excess rather than their goals or consequences. In my final observations, I do not reject this concept of overflowing excess, but I do contend that it cannot serve as a way of distinguishing moments of transgression from their containment, precisely because it cannot be measured according to the typical parameters of space and time.
Female condom acceptability in urban India: Examining the role of sexual pleasure
Authors: Bowling Jessamyn , Dodge Brian , Bindra Nyamat , Dave Bhaktiben , Sharma Ritika , Sundarraman Vikram , Thirupathur Dharuman Sivakumar , Herbenick Debby
Published: December 2017

This qualitative study examined the acceptability of female condoms in urban India, with a focus on sexual pleasure. We conducted focus group discussions with 50 women and 19 men, as well as a small number of individual interviews with women ( n = 3), in Chennai and New Delhi. Perceived benefits of female condoms included protection against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, increased sense of empowerment for women, and simple clean up. The most common drawback was reduced sensation. Participants suggested structural changes to the female condom to ease insertion and use. Consent and privacy were discussed as increasing sexual pleasure. Pleasure should be acknowledged in design and education efforts to increase female condom use.
Ecological momentary assessment and first smoking cessation lapse after an acute cardiac event: A pilot study
Authors: Webber Chelsea J , O’Hea Erin C , Abar Beau , Bock Beth , Boudreaux Edwin D
Published: December 2017

This 28-day pilot study assessed the feasibility of cell phone ecological momentary assessment in 40 smokers who received emergency department evaluations for acute coronary syndrome. Ecological momentary assessments used familiar touch tone response technology during a cell phone call to capture ratings of illness perceptions, emotion, behavioral intentions, and smoking. Ecological momentary assessments were conducted 1–8 times/day and took 1–2 minutes to complete. The mean ecological momentary assessment call compliance for all 40 subjects was 56.3 percent (standard deviation = 29.4), and during an ecological momentary assessment, 72.5 percent of participants reported a first lapse. We found that first-week call compliance was significantly correlated with subsequent compliance ( r = 0.55, p < 0.001).
The relationship between L2 instruction, exposure, and the L2 acquisition of a syntax–discourse property in L2 Spanish
Authors: Leal Tania , Slabakova Roumyana
Published: December 2017

This article uses the clitic left dislocation (CLLD) construction in L2 Spanish to investigate whether generative SLA has valuable insights to contribute to language teaching. Although CLLD is a structure that is commonly used by native speakers, as reported anecdotally and in at least one corpus, we found that native-Spanish and native-English teachers of Spanish have little metalinguistic knowledge of it. Crucially, we also found that CLLD does not appear consistently in Spanish textbooks. Additionally, it appears to be infrequent in the classroom input that learners receive, as we found in three lectures we recorded and tallied for CLLD usage rates. At the same time, study results show that the construction is learnable. Study abroad, that is, exposure to naturalistic input, appears to be a significant factor. Based on these collective findings, we suggest that learners at intermediate proficiency levels should be exposed to CLLD and that generative SLA is valuable to teachers in identifying such gaps in instruction.
Manipulating entitativity affects implicit behavioral and neural attentional biases toward gay couples
Authors: Dickter Cheryl L. , Forestell Catherine A. , Gupta Nicholas , Blass JoEllen J.
Published: December 2017

This study investigated whether attentional bias toward homosexual couples differs as a function of the manipulation of perceived entitativity, the degree to which group members are perceived to share common values and pursue common goals. Across two experiments, heterosexual college students were randomly assigned to read statements that suggested that homosexual and heterosexual couples were either high or low in entitativity. Following this task, 199 participants completed a dot probe task in Experiment 1 and electroencephalogram (EEG) activity was recorded for 74 participants in Experiment 2 to measure the implicit attentional processing that resulted from viewing pictures of gay, lesbian, and straight couples. Results indicated that participants exposed to low entitativity statements directed less behavioral and neural attention toward gay relative to straight couples compared to those exposed to high entitativity statements. Given the apparent malleability of attentional biases, future research should strive to better understand the factors involved in reducing attentional bias, and by extension, discriminatory behaviors toward minority groups.
Experimental and numerical study on a novel ribbed bracing system
Authors: Golafshani Ali Akbar , Fallah Soheil , Sahafipourfard Mohammad Amin , Arzeytoon Ali , Toufigh Vahab
Published: December 2017

In this article, the ribbed bracing system is proposed and evaluated through experimental and numerical studies. Ribbed bracing system is composed of a supplemental part with ribbed interfaces that is attached to a brace member and allows for its free length reduction to prevent the development of compressional forces responsible for buckling of the brace. Ribbed bracing system provides two different mechanisms: completely closed ribbed bracing system and improved-centering ribbed bracing system which are validated, in this study, through design, fabrication, and testing of small-scale specimens subjected to cyclic quasi-static loading. As verified by the test results, in improved-centering ribbed bracing system, nearly all compressive deformations are resisted through a self-centering mechanism; thus, smaller residual drift and energy absorption capacity are provided. In contrast, completely closed ribbed bracing system is ideal for maximizing the absorbed energy and minimizing the story drift while it leads to a rather large residual drift. Numerical assessment of an X-configured ribbed bracing system assembly employing the experimentally observed behavior also validates ribbed bracing system potentials for use in frame configurations.
A New approach to Helping the hard-to-place Unemployed
Authors: Andersen Niklas A. , Caswell Dorte , Larsen Flemming
Published: December 2017

The reforms of the social and employment services that have swept across most of the developed world since the 1990s have enormously expanded the groups of citizens receiving active employment measures. Nevertheless, up until now, most countries have only seen limited results from enhancing the labour market participation of the most vulnerable groups. We argue that the goal of including a greater share of the harder-to-place unemployed in the labour market is not likely to be achieved through the tried and tested ways of developing knowledge, policy and practice. Rather, we propose a different approach to generating and exchanging the necessary knowledge for developing active employment policy and practice. As an alternative to the evidence-based knowledge paradigm, we set up a model for knowledge production that is made through co-operation between practice and research. This model investigates the potential for integrated services and for co-production by acknowledging the importance of the experiences of frontline professionals and clients in developing employment services.
The ‘Gig’ Economy and its Impact on Social Security
Authors: Corujo Borja Suárez
Published: December 2017

This article aims to shed light on one crucial aspect of the ‘gig’ economy: the extent to which the new forms of work in this field undermine the pillars upon which traditional Bismarckian systems of social security have been built. Focusing on Spain, three main issues are analysed. First, after considering the legal classification of this type of service provision and its implications, the scheme within the social security system that corresponds to the registration of the service providers is identified. Second, how registration and subsequent social security contributions affect the generosity of social benefits is clarified. In particular, attention is paid to both the risk of partial, or total, lack of, protection due to the absence of compulsory contributions and the low-level of contributions made by the self-employed. And third, the impact the development of the platform economy may have on the financing of social security and its future sustainability – given the current difficulties confronting the Spanish economy – is examined. Some recommendations relating to these three issues are outlined as concluding remarks.
A place to stand: Digital sociology and the Archimedean effect
Authors: Possamai-Inesedy Alphia , Nixon Alan
Published: December 2017

With the advent of the internet, particularly Web 2.0, sociologists have been called to take up the challenges and the promises of the web. In the face of this, sociologists are caught up in debates and practices concerned with how to ethically approach and develop appropriate methods/methodologies for the field. While these are important endeavours, more robust debate needs to take place on the unintended consequences of the promises of the internet, as well as the power relations that are at play in what we term the ‘digital social’. Employing the metaphor of the Archimedean screw and Archimedean point, this article argues that the space we now find ourselves in is unprecedented; it is one which simultaneously demands the empowerment of research and yet results in the stripping away of its foundation. The Archimedean effect demonstrates that the promises of the internet have not been fulfilled resulting in the evolution and de-evolution of the digital social framed by the reinforcement of existing power relations. Yet, rather than viewing this as a time of crisis, we should see it as a defining moment for our discipline, one where the demands of public sociology need to be adopted broadly.
Art and space: Creative infrastructure and cultural capital in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Stevenson Deborah , Magee Liam
Published: December 2017

Creative activity and cultural facilities are routinely touted as markers and facilitators of successful cities and societies. This view is underpinned by the assumption that they contribute to local economic growth, foster a positive city image, and enhance urban quality of life. Creativity and the consumption of art are also well established as markers of social and cultural status, while access to, and the physical distribution of, cultural resources are also embedded in, and reinforce, forms of social difference. Understanding the intersection of the social and the spatial in the consumption and distribution of culture is important to both cultural and urban sociology. Using Sydney, Australia, as a case study and drawing on the findings of a major national study of cultural consumption, the article engages with the influential work of Pierre Bourdieu on the reception of art and the differential propensity of various social classes to go to art galleries and to appreciate art, to highlight social and spatial concentrations and fault-lines in arts participation. It also points to important theoretical and empirical nuances, including a weakening of the nexus between socio-economic class and cultural consumption that is occurring at the same time as the links between forms of cultural capital – education and art consumption – appear to be strengthening.
The sociology of emotions: A meta-reflexive review of a theoretical tradition in flux
Authors: Olson Rebecca E. , McKenzie Jordan J. , Patulny Roger
Published: December 2017

Based in a novel ‘meta-reflexive’ review of sociology of emotions (SoE) articles, we suggest that there are two primary SoE theoretical traditions that function within geographic silos: the USA is distinctly social psychological, while in the UK and Australia, SoE is more aligned with the humanities. In both traditions, parallel calls are emerging for interdisciplinarity and further engagement with physiological and pre-personal elements of emotion. Based in Archer’s and Bourdieu’s concepts of reflexivity, we assert the merits of reflexively examining SoE, and then identify key changes in SoE that have emerged across time and geography. Using Kuhn’s work on paradigm shifts, we conclude that SoE is entering a stage of growth and change, and raise important questions about the subdiscipline’s future direction.
A pilot study exploring the relationship between the use of mobile technologies, walking distance, and clinical decision making among rural hospital nurses
Authors: Sedgwick Monique , Awosoga Olu , Grigg Lance
Published: December 2017

Providing evidence-based information at the point of care for time-poor nurses may lead to better clinical care and patient outcomes. Smartphone applications (apps) have the advantage of providing immediate access to information potentially increasing time spent with patients. This small-scale pre-post survey study explored the impact a smartphone app had on the distance nurses walked and their perceived clinical decision-making ability. A total of 20 nurses working in a rural hospital medical/surgical unit participated. The findings suggest that the use of the smartphone app did not decrease nurses’ walking distance. Nor did using the app enhances nurses’ perception of their clinical decision-making ability. However, there was a statistically significant increase in confidence in the app over time (F(1,16) = 5.416, p = 0.033, partial η2 = 0.253), suggesting that providing training opportunities including time to learn how to use smartphone applications has the potential to enhance nurses work.
Validation of a multivariate clinical prediction model for the diagnosis of mild stroke/transient ischemic attack in physician first-contact patient settings
Authors: Bibok Maximilian B , Penn Andrew M , Lesperance Mary L , Votova Kristine , Balshaw Robert
Published: December 2017

We validate our previously developed (DOI: 10.1101/089227) clinical prediction rule for diagnosing transient ischemic attack on the basis of presenting clinical symptoms and compare its performance with the ABCD2 score in first-contact patient settings. Two independent and prospectively collected patient validation cohorts were used: (a) referral cohort–prospectively referred emergency department and general practitioner patients ( N = 877); and (b) SpecTRA cohort–participants recruited as part of the SpecTRA biomarker project ( N = 545). Outcome measure consisted of imaging-confirmed clinical diagnosis of mild stroke/transient ischemic attack. Results showed that our clinical prediction rule demonstrated significantly higher accuracy than the ABCD2 score for both the referral cohort (70.5% vs 59.0%; p < 0.001) and SpecTRA cohort (72.8% vs 68.3%; p = 0.028). We discuss the potential of our clinical prediction rule to replace the use of the ABCD2 score in the triage of transient ischemic attack clinic referrals.
An optimization design method for a body mounting system of a heavy vehicle
Authors: Liu Jing , Xu Zidan , Shao Yimin , Deng Chunlong , Song Xiaohua , Jiang Gongliang
Published: December 2017

Noise, vibration, and harshness is one of the main issues of heavy vehicles since their working conditions are very complex and tough. However, most previous works were focused on the optimization design methods of the engine mounting system and few works were reported to study those of the body mounting system. In practice, the body mounting system can significantly affect the noise, vibration, and harshness performance of the vehicle. An inappropriate body mounting system can produce unacceptable noise, vibration, and harshness performance and even result in serious accidents. To overcome this issue, an optimization design method for a body mounting system of a heavy vehicle is proposed to investigate the effect of the body mounting system on the noise, vibration, and harshness performance. Based on the geometrics of the vehicle body, the initial material parameters, shapes, and sizes of the rubber absorber of the body mounting system are determined by the vibration transmissibility ratio and static deformation ratio from an analytical method in the literature. The von Mises stresses of the initial rubber absorber cases from a static finite element analysis are used to select the optimal rubber absorber cases. A multibody dynamic method is proposed to validate the noise, vibration, and harshness performance of the optimal rubber absorber cases. The results show that the presented optimization design method for the body mounting system can be used to optimize the noise, vibration, and harshness performance of the heavy vehicles.
Fake news from Africa: Panics, politics and paradigms
Authors: Wasserman Herman
Published: December 2017

The moral panic about ‘fake news’ internationally has formed the backdrop for debates about the impact of the spread of similar fabrications on politics in South Africa. News – whether ‘fake’ or ‘real’ – should not be understood outside of its particular contexts of production and consumption, and therefore an investigation into the phenomenon of ‘fake news’ in South Africa needs to take account of local specificities. The phenomenon of ‘fake news’, the discourses that surround it and responses by audiences and the journalistic community have to be understood within the particular social, cultural and political context. This article seeks to locate the manifestation of ‘fake news’ within the South African media landscape, in order to illustrate how it produces particular responses that relate directly to specific social and political forces at a given historical juncture. In other words, the phenomenon of ‘fake news’ will be used to understand how journalistic discourses operate within particular environments. Of particular interest is the response of the journalistic community to the emergence of ‘fake news’, and how this phenomenon is used as leverage to assert a professional identity in the light of pressures on journalism in the context of a young democracy.
Law, market building and public health in the European Union
Authors: Holden Chris , Hawkins Ben
Published: December 2017

European Union (EU) law is based upon a liberalising imperative, the goal of which is to construct a single market between member states. Yet, the EU is no ordinary trade pact, incorporating as it does a range of supranational political institutions and common policies in a range of areas beyond simple market building. Scholars have nevertheless noted a distinction between ‘positive’ integration (the formulation of common policies applying to all member states) and ‘negative’ integration (the removal of national-level regulations acting as barriers to market integration). In the context of debates about the implications of trade law and corporate activity for health, this article poses three related questions. First, to what extent does EU law afford corporations opportunities to challenge national-level health regulations? Second, to what extent do EU legal and political processes provide opportunities for positive pro-health supranational regulation, including that which might offset the effects of negative liberalising integration? Third, how do EU market-building processes differ from those of more narrowly drawn trade agreements and organisations in their implications for health? We analyse and compare two recent sets of health-related legal proceedings under EU law, the first of which challenges legislation passed by the Scottish Government to introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol, and the second of which addresses the legality of specific aspects of the EU’s 2014 Tobacco Products Directive. We find, first, that EU law offers ample opportunities for corporations to challenge national health regulations; second, that there is significant scope for pro-health supranational regulations, but that these must be couched in the language of facilitating the single market, and are dependent on the political commitment of key policy actors; and, third, that this (albeit limited) scope for pro-health supranational regulation distinguishes EU legal and political processes from those of other trade agreements and organisations.
Design the prediction model of low-sulfur-content fuel oil consumption for M/V NORD VENUS 80,000 DWT sailing on emission control areas by artificial neural networks
Authors: Tran Tien Anh
Published: December 2017

The international shipping transportation has an important position in the field of economical development in each nation. It has been presented by increasing the number of ships with sufficiency of sizes and kinds. This development always associates with the environmental pollution. The main reason for this that International Maritime Organization required all ships conform to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78) and that they want their ships operate in the international routes. Especially, MARPOL 73/78, Annex VI—Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships, gradually impacts the limited value of low-sulfur-content fuel oil on ships no more than 0.50% m/m (mass by mass) from 1 January 2020, against the limit of 1.00% in effect up until 31 December 2014. Following the actual conditions, a lot of countries in the world have given the solutions in response to these above regulations. In Vietnam, VINIC shipping transportation company also has the solution in changing-over procedures from heavy fuel oil into light heavy fuel oil with low-sulfur content for bulk carriers. Based on the development of science and technology nowadays, especially machine learning method, the author has designed prediction model of low-sulfur-content fuel oil consumption by applying artificial neural networks model. The object of this study is a bulk carrier of VINIC shipping transportation company in Vietnam with ship name M/V NORD VENUS 80,000 DWT. The mass of low-sulfur-content fuel oil consumption has been recorded and compared with the results collected in this research when ship sailed on emission control areas. The simulation results of prediction model have been represented on artificial neural networks tool of MATLAB program. The advantage of this model will be represented through comparing with traditional statistical regression methods. The artificial neural networks prediction model of low-sulfur-content fuel oil consumption is more reliable than other traditional methods. The traditional statistical regression methods have been supported in this case by Minitab software. The superior model will save the low-sulfur-content fuel oil on bulk carriers and reduce the sea environmental pollution. This article will be an initial basis for applying the different types of ships when sailing on emission control areas in the future.
Novel Endovascular Approach Using the Gore Iliac Branch Endograft for Short Iliac Anatomy
Authors: Wang Kejia , Dunkley Laura , Neale Michael
Published: December 2017

Purpose: To report the use of a branched iliac endograft to maintain internal iliac artery (IIA) patency in a patient with an infrarenal aortic aneurysm and short common iliac arteries (CIA). Case Report: A 74-year-old man presented with an asymptomatic, fusiform, 67-mm infrarenal aortic aneurysm confirmed on computed tomography. The right CIA was funnel shaped and only 15 mm in length, providing no appropriate stent-graft landing zone. The left CIA measured 14 mm in diameter and 25 mm in length. Endovascular repair of the aneurysm with preservation of the IIAs was achieved using a Gore Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for the short right CIA and a conventional limb to land in the left CIA. Follow-up scans to 24 months have shown continued patency of the IIA and no evidence of endoleak. Conclusion: The Gore Iliac Branch Endograft can be used to successfully treat patients with short CIA anatomy while preserving flow to the ipsilateral IIA, with maintained early patency of the IIA limb.
Using Observational Assessment to Inform Professional Development Decisions: Alternative Scoring for the Danielson Framework for Teaching
Authors: Kettler Ryan J. , Reddy Linda A.
Published: December 2017

The Framework for Teaching (FFT) is one of the most widely used observational systems for evaluating teacher effectiveness and driving professional development conversations in schools. This study contrasts reliability and validity evidence relevant to the FFT as traditionally scored with evidence relevant to a composite scoring approach that connects to specific practice feedback. The FFT is typically interpreted at the domain level and at an overall total level using four categories of teacher effectiveness—unsatisfactory, basic, proficient, and distinguished—scored without computational rules governing relationships between the 22 components and four domains. For this study, the composite scoring approach was computed by averaging the components nested within each domain. A sample of 156 teachers and 34 trained school administrators from 12 high-poverty charter schools used the FFT as part of regular evaluation practices, yielding an extant set of de-identified data. Results indicate the composite scores were internally consistent at the domain and total levels. In comparison with traditional scores, the composite scores were more stable across time, as well as more predictive of student growth in reading and mathematics achievement. Implications for professional development and educator evaluation are discussed.
ImageJ: A Free, Easy, and Reliable Method to Measure Leg Ulcers Using Digital Pictures
Authors: Aragón-Sánchez Javier , Quintana-Marrero Yurena , Aragón-Hernández Cristina , Hernández-Herero María José
Published: December 2017

Wound measurement to document the healing course of chronic leg ulcers has an important role in the management of these patients. Digital cameras in smartphones are readily available and easy to use, and taking pictures of wounds is becoming a routine in specialized departments. Analyzing digital pictures with appropriate software provides clinicians a quick, clean, and easy-to-use tool for measuring wound area. A set of 25 digital pictures of plain foot and leg ulcers was the basis of this study. Photographs were taken placing a ruler next to the wound in parallel with the healthy skin with the iPhone 6S (Apple Inc, Cupertino, CA), which has a camera of 12 megapixels using the flash. The digital photographs were visualized with ImageJ 1.45s freeware (National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD; http://imagej.net/ImageJ ). Wound area measurement was carried out by 4 raters: head of the department, wound care nurse, physician, and medical student. We assessed intra- and interrater reliability using the interclass correlation coefficient. To determine intraobserver reliability, 2 of the raters repeated the measurement of the set 1 week after the first reading. The interrater model displayed an interclass correlation coefficient of 0.99 with 95% confidence interval of 0.999 to 1.000, showing excellent reliability. The intrarater model of both examiners showed excellent reliability. In conclusion, analyzing digital images of leg ulcers with ImageJ estimates wound area with excellent reliability. This method provides a free, rapid, and accurate way to measure wounds and could routinely be used to document wound healing in daily clinical practice.
Validity of the Turkish Occupational Self Assessment for Elderly Individuals
Authors: Pekçetin Serkan , Salar Sinem , İnal Özgü , Kayıhan Hülya
Published: December 2017

Occupational therapy practices in Turkey are increasing each year, but rehabilitation practitioners working in the occupational therapy field have limited instruments. The aim of this study was to analyze the validity of the Turkish version of the Occupational Self Assessment (OSA), which is based on the Model of Human Occupation. The data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to determine construct validity. The Turkish OSA was administered with the World Health Organization Quality of Life–Old (WHOQOL-OLD) and the Functional Autonomy Measurement System (SMAF) to 117 elderly individuals to determine convergent validity. The Turkish OSA has acceptable construct validity scores (exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses). SMAF and WHOQOL-OLD Scales showed a moderately significant relationship with OSA competence total scores ( p < .01). The results indicate that the OSA is a valid instrument for determining occupational competence and values in elderly Turkish individuals.
CREATE/ERS: Department of Defense acquisition reform through resilient engineering and virtual prototyping in a digital environment
Authors: Post Douglass E , Eslinger Owen J , Sundt Scott M , Holland Megan
Published: December 2017

The USA faces a multitude of threats to its national security and international interests in an era of exponential technology growth and unprecedented access by anyone with a smartphone. Traditionally, the acquisition of US defense systems has relied on sequential methods of conceptual design and development. While successful in the past, these methods are time consuming and in danger of creating vulnerability gaps that could limit or constrain US response options. The challenge is clear. Either the US Department of Defense (DoD) evolves the way it plans, develops, buys, and manufactures new weapons systems, or it cedes the high ground to a rapidly changing global environment. Adapting and expanding advances in high performance computing (HPC), developing and employing complex physics-based software tools for high fidelity modeling and simulation, and implementing a vision that combines these elements with other processes are critical enablers the DoD is pursuing. This paper describes the synergy of three major DoD efforts designed to address needs in the areas of acquisition program development and execution: the DoD High Performance Computing Modernization Program (HPCMP) (the DoD HPCMP began as an Office of the Secretary of Defense program in 1992; in October 2011, leadership transferred to the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology; the US Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center manages the program, https://www.hpc.mil/index.php ) Computational Research and Engineering Acquisition Tools and Environments program; the Engineered Resilient Systems program; and the DoD Digital Engineering vision.
Reconstruction of the Thoracic Wall With Biologic Mesh After Resection for Chest Wall Tumors: A Presentation of a Case Series and Original Technique
Authors: D’Amico Giuseppe , Manfredi Roberto , Nita Gabriela , Poletti Paola , Milesi Laura , Livraghi Luca , Poletti Eugenio , Verga Maurizio , Robotti Enrico , Ansaloni Luca
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Synthetic materials have traditionally been used for tissue reconstruction in thoracic surgery. New biomaterials have been tested in other areas of surgery with good results. Non–cross-linked swine dermal collagen prosthesis has been used to reconstruct musculofascial defects in the trunk with low infection and herniation rate. Material and Methods. Retrospectively, we analyze our initial experience of chest wall reconstruction on large defects using a non–cross-linked swine dermal collagen matrix mesh with a thickness of 1.4 mm. A total of 11 consecutive patients were included. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were taken into consideration. Results. Eleven sarcoma patients with a mean age of 58.25 ± 12.9 years underwent chest wall resections. Complete thoracic wall defects ranged from 6 · 9 to 16 · 25 cm in size. In all cases, we used a porcine collagen matrix mesh, and in all patients, it was covered by transposition of myocutaneous flap. The complications occurred in 5 (45%) patients, 1 (9%) pneumonia, 1 atrial fibrillation (9%), and 3 (27%) wound healing difficulty because of hematoma or infection. There was no respiratory impairment, and the pulmonary function (total lung capacity, vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second) was not statistically different before and after surgery. The 30-day mortality was 0%, 1-year mortality and 2-year mortality was 27.2%. The collagen material resulted in a durable and good to excellent chest wall stability in clinical follow-ups, and on computer tomography scans spanning over 2 years. Conclusion. Non–cross-linked acellular porcine dermal collagen matrix is a feasible and reliable biological patch material for reconstruction of the thoracic wall. Excellent wound healing, long-term stability, low complication, and good pulmonary function are achieved even in large defects.