bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-reliance without self-satisfaction: Emerson, Thoreau, Dylan and the problem of inaction
Authors: Green Jeffrey Edward
Published: October 2019

The idea of self-reliance is important not only because it is often taken to be definitive of the ethics of democratic individualism, but because its greatest theorists have been uncommonly forthright about a problem that, though familiar to ordinary civic experience, frequently gets ignored: that self-reliant individuality is a basis for not fully supporting otherwise endorsed social justice causes. This article turns to Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Bob Dylan who are unusual for so honestly reflecting upon this problem and who, because of the differences in the way they conceptualize it, are instructive for civic ethics. I demonstrate that Emerson and Thoreau imbue their self-reliant withdrawal from social action with a self-satisfaction that is lacking for Dylan, who is much readier to acknowledge the moral costs of self-reliance. This acknowledgement does not invalidate self-reliance but alters its epistemological, ethical and political features, providing a variant of self-reliance more suitable to contemporary conditions.
Reverse Mission: Towards an African British Theology
Authors: Olofinjana Rev Israel Oluwole
Published: October 2019

This article explores reverse mission as practised by African Christians in Britain. The main research question is what crucial role does African identity play in African mission in Britain and how does that lead towards developing African British theology? It is argued that such a theology will help African Christians in Britain be affirmed in their cultural identity whilst at the same time reach beyond African communities in their mission engagement. African British theology is related to Black British theology in that they both take the black experience seriously for theological reflection. However, African British theology is also distinct in that it seeks to understand African identity and mission in a postmodern multicultural British society. My research methods have been as an African Practical Theologian involving active participation as well participant observation. My approach has been interdisciplinary engaging the fields of practical theology, diaspora missiology, African theology and Black theology.
Following in your sibling’s steps: Sibling influence and young adults’ marital attitudes
Authors: Cassinat Jenna R. , Jensen Alexander C.
Published: October 2019

This study explored the role of sibling modeling and differentiation in young adults’ beliefs about marriage and expectation of marriage in reference to their perception of their closest aged sibling’s marital centrality. Siblings play an important role in socialization, yet their role in young adulthood, and in relation to attitudes about marriage, has received limited attention. Marriage is an important aspect of development for young adults; therefore, this study specifically examined the role of sibling modeling and differentiation in young adults’ formation of expectation of marriage and marital centrality. Data came from 1,258 unmarried young adults (age 18–29 years) from across the U.S. ( M = 25.02; SD = 2.60; 47% female). Models for marital centrality were tested using hierarchical ordinary least squares regression, and models for the expectation of marriage were examined using binary logistic regression. Findings revealed that siblings’ beliefs and expectations to marry were more closely related in conditions of high modeling. For those with only one sibling, greater differentiation was linked to less similarity between siblings’ marital centrality. Siblings therefore may play an important role in young adults’ expectation of marriage and beliefs about marital centrality.
A comparison of high versus low dose of exercise training in exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial with 12-months follow-up
Authors: Petersen Annemette Krintel , Oestergaard Lisa Gregersen , van Tulder Maurits , Laustsen Sussie
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To assess if a higher dose of exercise training in exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation could affect improvements in aerobic capacity and muscle strength.

Design:

Assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial with 12-months follow-up.

Setting:

Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.

Subjects:

A total of 164 cardiac patients referred to exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation were recruited.

Interventions:

Patients were randomized to 1-hour exercise sessions either three times weekly for 12 weeks (36 sessions, high-dose group) or twice weekly for 8 weeks (16 sessions, low-dose group). The same standardized exercise and intensity protocol including aerobic and muscle strength training was used in all participants.

Main measures:

Primary outcome was changes in VO2peak. Secondary outcomes were changes in maximal workload, muscle strength and power. Measures were obtained at baseline, after termination of the rehabilitation programme and at follow-up after 6 and 12 months.

Results:

After the end of intervention, statistically significant between-group differences were seen in favour of the high-dose group in all outcomes: VO2peak 2.6 (mL kg−1 min−1) (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.4–4.8), maximal workload 0.3 W kg−1 (95%CI: 0.02–0.5), isometric muscle strength 0.7 N m kg−1 (95%CI: 0.1–1.2) and muscle power 0.3 W kg−1 (95%CI: 0.04–0.6). After 12 months, a significant between-group difference only persisted in VO2peak and maximal workload.

Conclusion:

A higher dose of exercise training had a small effect on all outcomes at termination of intervention. A long-term effect persisted in VO2peak and maximal workload. Although the effect was small, it is an important finding because VO2peak is the most important predictor of all-cause mortality in cardiac patients.
Clinical pharmacology of the dual orexin receptor antagonist ACT-541468 in elderly subjects: Exploration of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tolerability following single-dose morning and repeated-dose evening administration
Authors: Muehlan Clemens , Boehler Margaux , Brooks Sander , Zuiker Rob , van Gerven Joop , Dingemanse Jasper
Published: October 2019

Background:

The dual orexin receptor antagonist ACT-541468 showed sedative pharmacodynamic effects during initial clinical testing in adult subjects. The present study explored pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tolerability in healthy elderly subjects.

Methods:

Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised, single-ascending dose study in 24 male/female elderly (65–80 years, 5, 15 and 25 mg in the morning, 6/2 active/placebo per group). Additionally, 10 subjects (8/2 active/placebo) received 25 mg for 7 days in the evening. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (saccadic peak velocity, adaptive tracking, body sway, visual analogue scales according to Bowdle and Bond and Lader, Karolinska Sleepiness Scale) and tolerability were assessed. In particular, pharmacodynamics results are to be interpreted exploratorily.

Results:

Absorption was quick with a median time to maximum concentration of ∼ 1.0 h. The mean elimination half-life was 8.5–9.8 h, the area under the curve and the maximum plasma concentration increased proportionally with dose. Following repeated evening administration of 25 mg, minimal accumulation was observed. There were no pharmacodynamic effects at 5 mg. At 15 mg, saccadic peak velocity (degree/s; SD) was reduced (69; 38), while other variables showed no effects. At 25 mg, effects on all objective pharmacodynamic parameters were observed. At 8–12 h post-dose, there were no differences to placebo and no next-day effects on pharmacodynamic variables after evening administration. Elderly subjects reported fewer adverse events compared to adults in previous studies.

Conclusion:

ACT-541468 in elderly subjects was well tolerated and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are compatible with a drug for the treatment of insomnia. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02571855
Make It Special! Negative Correlations Between the Need for Uniqueness and Visual Aesthetic Sensitivity
Authors: Marschallek Barbara E. , Weiler Selina M. , Jörg Mona , Jacobsen Thomas
Published: October 2019

This study investigated the need for uniqueness, visual aesthetic sensitivity, and their correlation. To investigate these variables, we asked 71 participants to complete the German adaptation of the Need for Uniqueness scale (NfU-G) and the Visual Aesthetic Sensitivity Test (VAST)—including the VAST-Revised (VAST-R). The NfU-G measures the need to set oneself apart from others, whereas the VAST(-R) tests the ability to identify the objective aesthetic goodness of a figural composition. The findings of this study are significantly compliant with theoretical considerations: the higher a participant scores on the NfU-G scale, the lower the percentage of correctly identified drawings on the VAST(-R), with the VAST being a stronger predictor than the VAST-R. Thus, the results suggest that participants who strive for individuality exhibit lower visual aesthetic sensitivity since they tend to violate norms in order to assert their uniqueness. Limitations regarding this outcome are discussed.
Impact of tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and other antidepressants on overall survival of patients with advanced lung cancer from 2004 to 2014: University of Cincinnati experience
Authors: Abdel Karim Nagla Fawzy , Hassan Rammey , Siddiqi Nabeela Iffat , Eldessouki Ihab , Gaber Ola , Rahouma Mohamed , Kamel Mohamed , Yellu Mhender , Gulati Shuchi , Xie Changchun , Magdy Mohamed , Pruemer Jane
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To evaluate and categorize the survival benefit of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in lung cancer patients based on systematic computational drug repositioning data.

Methods

Data were retrospectively extracted from the medical records of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients from the University of Cincinnati Cancer Medical Center database. Patients receiving antidepressants during their course of anti-cancer treatment were compared with those without antidepressants. Data were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves with the log-rank test, and overall survival (OS) was calculated from the date of diagnosis until last follow-up or death.

Results

The median OS at 2 and 5 years for patients on antidepressants was 20.3 months (54.7% and 42%) vs 44.3 months (47.6% and 43.2%), which was not significant. The median OS for patients receiving TCAs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and other antidepressants was 3.17 months, 31.33 months, and 18.50 months, respectively.

Conclusion

We found no significant survival benefit for TCA use in combination with anti-cancer agents in NSCLC patients.
Quantifying the number of lymph nodes for examination in breast cancer
Authors: Sun Liping , Li Ping , Ren He , Liu Gang , Sun Lining
Published: October 2019

Objective

Examining the correct number of lymph nodes when diagnosing breast cancer invasion is still a problem. This work aimed to develop a qualification model that estimates the possibility of missing nodes and the number of lymph nodes that need to be examined.

Methods

By analyzing lymph node invasion of 303,760 breast cancer samples with primary tumor stage and the number of examined and positive lymph nodes from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database using a beta-binomial model, the number of nodes that should be examined was quantified in different stages.

Results

In general, to reduce the possibility of missing positive nodes to less than 10%, 21 lymph nodes should be examined; thus, the current median of dissected nodes (12) is not adequate. The number of nodes needed to be dissected for stages T1, T2, and T3 are 8, 37, and 87, respectively. Currently, the median number of node dissections for these stages were 12, 13, and 14, respectively. The clinical significance of the nodal staging score was validated with survival information.

Conclusion

Currently, the number of lymph nodes dissected in breast cancer are excessive for T1 but insufficient for T2 and T3.
Successful treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis by R-CHOP-E regimen: a case report
Authors: Wu Ran , Deng Xiaohui , Hao Siguo , Ma Liyuan
Published: October 2019

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare fatal clinical syndrome characterized by a hyperinflammatory condition caused by aberrantly activated macrophages and cytotoxic T cells, resulting in a cytokine storm and organ impairment. Lymphoma, especially B-cell lymphoma in Japan, is a common trigger of secondary HLH. In China, however, most cases of HLH secondary to lymphoma occur in patients with T-cell/natural killer-cell lymphoma or Hodgkin`s lymphoma; HLH is relatively uncommon in patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. We herein describe a man with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and secondary HLH who was successfully treated by R-CHOP-E chemotherapy. All symptoms resolved and laboratory indications of HLH normalized, and complete remission of the lymphoma was achieved. This rare case highlights not only the possibility of HLH secondary to DLBCL but also the importance of early initiation of R-CHOP-E chemotherapy.
Idiopathic Myocardial Fibrosis in Captive Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Strong Victoria , Moittié Sophie , Sheppard Mary N. , Liptovszky Matyas , White Kate , Redrobe Sharon , Cobb Malcolm , Baiker Kerstin
Published: October 2019

Cardiovascular disorders and predominantly idiopathic myocardial fibrosis are frequently associated with mortality among zoo-housed chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes). Formalin-fixed whole hearts of deceased chimpanzees housed in zoos ( n = 33) and an African sanctuary ( n = 2) underwent detailed macroscopic and histopathologic examination using a standardized protocol. Archived histological slides from the hearts of 23 additional African sanctuary-housed chimpanzees were also examined. Myocardial fibrosis (MF) was identified in 30 of 33 (91%) of the zoo-housed chimpanzees but none of the 25 sanctuary-housed chimpanzees. MF was shown to be characterized by both interstitial and replacement fibrosis. Immunophenotyping demonstrated that the fibrotic lesions were accompanied by the increased presence of macrophages, alpha smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblasts, and a minimal to mild T-cell-dominant leukocyte infiltration. There was no convincing evidence of cardiotropic viral infection or suggestion that diabetes mellitus or vitamin E or selenium deficiency were associated with the presence of the lesion. However, serum vitamin D concentrations among zoo-housed chimpanzees were found to be lower in seasons of low ultraviolet light levels.
Popular music lyrics and musicians’ gender over time: A computational approach
Authors: Anglada-Tort Manuel , Krause Amanda E , North Adrian C
Published: October 2019

The present study investigated how the gender distribution of the United Kingdom’s most popular artists has changed over time and the extent to which these changes might relate to popular music lyrics. Using data mining and machine learning techniques, we analyzed all songs that reached the UK weekly top 5 sales charts from 1960 to 2015 (4,222 songs). DICTION software facilitated a computerized analysis of the lyrics, measuring a total of 36 lyrical variables per song. Results showed a significant inequality in gender representation on the charts. However, the presence of female musicians increased significantly over the time span. The most critical inflection points leading to changes in the prevalence of female musicians were in 1968, 1976, and 1984. Linear mixed-effect models showed that the total number of words and the use of self-reference in popular music lyrics changed significantly as a function of musicians’ gender distribution over time, and particularly around the three critical inflection points identified. Irrespective of gender, there was a significant trend toward increasing repetition in the lyrics over time. Results are discussed in terms of the potential advantages of using machine learning techniques to study naturalistic singles sales charts data.
Defining the north Australian monsoon onset: A systematic review
Authors: Lisonbee Joel , Ribbe Joachim , Wheeler Matthew
Published: October 2019

The annual Australian monsoon pattern includes an onset, or the much anticipated first active monsoon period of the season, but defining the monsoon onset has proven to be problematic. Since the first Australian monsoon onset definition by Troup in 1961 there have been many others presented. There appears to be no universally accepted method to define the Australian monsoon onset, and therefore, we present here an analysis of the methods that have been proposed.

The aim of this paper is to systematically review the different methods used to define the Australian monsoon onset, adding to the work that has been done by other reviews for monsoon systems around the world. For the first time, we identify the 25 different methods that have been published for the Australian monsoon/wet season onset and compare them to identify how well they align. When considering the 57 seasons where more than one onset definition is provided, the range of dates within the season can range over several months, with an average range of 44 days and the largest range within a season of 78 days. Thus, we show that different onset definitions are capturing different events altogether and pin the ‘onset’ to different dates throughout the progression of the north Australian wet season. Some capture a ‘wet season onset’ while others capture the dynamical overturning of the atmosphere (i.e. the monsoon). In conclusion, our analysis finds that there is still a lack in real-time monitoring or prognostic capabilities of monsoon onset dates as well as limited operational applicability despite a plethora of definitions.
Ultrasonography to measure quadriceps muscle in critically ill patients: A literature review of reported methodologies
Authors: Weinel Luke M , Summers Matthew J , Chapple Lee-Anne
Published: October 2019

Muscle wasting in the intensive care unit (ICU) is common and may impair functional recovery. Ultrasonography (US) presents a modern solution to quantify skeletal muscle size and monitor muscle wasting. However, no standardised methodology for the conduct of ultrasound-derived quadriceps muscle layer thickness or cross-sectional area in this population exists. The aim of this study was to compare methodologies reported for the measurement of quadriceps muscle layer thickness (MLT) and cross-sectional area (CSA) using US in critically ill patients. Databases PubMed, Ovid, Embase, and CINAHL were searched for original research publications that reported US-derived quadriceps MLT and/or CSA conducted in critically ill adult patients. Data were extracted from eligible studies on parameters relating to US measurement including anatomical location, patient positioning, operator technique and image analysis. It was identified that there was a clear lack of reported detail and substantial differences in the reported methodology used for all parameters. A standardised protocol and minimum reporting standards for US-derived measurement of quadriceps muscle size in ICU is required to allow for consistent measurement techniques and hence interpretation of results.
Understanding the group process in the first year of psychotherapy: the walk, the basic assumptions and the challenges of young adults
Authors: Gargiulo Anna , Tenerini Alessandra
Published: October 2019

This article aims to explore the dynamics of a small psychotherapy group, whose members, all young adults, began to wait for each other at the end of the sessions to walk down a stretch of road before going their separate ways. Clinical material selected from some sessions of the first year of the therapy is presented and commented on. From the possible meanings attributed to the walk, the authors highlight the group process characterized by the oscillation between the basic assumption of fight-flight and that of dependency. The work shows that the group’s walk becomes, from attack to clinician, to creation of a transitional area where it is possible to experience being a young adult.
Spousal Violence Against Women in India: A Social–Ecological Analysis Using Data From the National Family Health Survey 2015 to 2016
Authors: Ahmad Jaleel , Khan Nizamuddin , Mozumdar Arupendra
Published: October 2019

Even after enactment of the Protection of Women From Domestic Violence Act 2005, over the last 10 years, the rate of decline of prevalence of spousal violence against women has remained low in India. This study attempts to explain the experience of spousal violence using a social–ecological framework. We analyzed the National Family Health Survey 2015 to 2016 (NFHS-4) data of 66,013 ever-married women aged 15 to 49 years. Participants in the domestic violence module of the NFHS-4 reported their experience of violence committed by their husband within the 12 months preceding the survey. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were done to determine the association between spousal violence and different explanatory variables of various levels of social ecology including variables on women’s empowerment. About one fourth of ever-married women reported experiencing any form of violence during the last year. The experience of spousal violence was significantly associated with social ecology at multiple levels. At the individual level, the odds of experiencing physical violence were higher among younger women, who married at a younger age, had an age gap of 3 to 4 years with her husband, and had more children. Women in vulnerable groups, with poor economic status, and members of marginalized communities had higher odds of experiencing spousal violence. Women had high odds of experiencing spousal violence if living in a social ecology with unfavorable social norms, higher rates of domestic crimes, and a higher prevalence of underage marriage. The association of spousal violence with women’s empowerment remained inconclusive. The results argue for manipulating contextual factors to empower women to challenge gender-related equations and investing in education for gender sensitization at the higher level social ecologies.
Predicting Voting Behavior Using Digital Trace Data
Authors: Bach Ruben L. , Kern Christoph , Amaya Ashley , Keusch Florian , Kreuter Frauke , Hecht Jan , Heinemann Jonathan
Published: October 2019

A major concern arising from ubiquitous tracking of individuals’ online activity is that algorithms may be trained to predict personal sensitive information, even for users who do not wish to reveal such information. Although previous research has shown that digital trace data can accurately predict sociodemographic characteristics, little is known about the potentials of such data to predict sensitive outcomes. Against this background, we investigate in this article whether we can accurately predict voting behavior, which is considered personal sensitive information in Germany and subject to strict privacy regulations. Using records of web browsing and mobile device usage of about 2,000 online users eligible to vote in the 2017 German federal election combined with survey data from the same individuals, we find that online activities do not predict (self-reported) voting well in this population. These findings add to the debate about users’ limited control over (inaccurate) personal information flows.
Learning from venture creation in higher education
Authors: Haneberg Dag Håkon , Aadland Torgeir
Published: October 2019

This article explores how students learn from venture creation in higher education by using a novel empirical approach: the Zaltman metaphor elicitation technique (ZMET). This inductive research approach provides extraordinarily rich data that enable a thorough and holistic understanding of students’ learning processes. The participant selection differentiates students who pursue venturing throughout their entrepreneurship education programme and those who exit venturing halfway through, and the article is the first to pinpoint differences between how students with and without ventures in the same environment learn. The findings reveal that students who choose to exit their new ventures learn based on a community of practice – which is facilitated by other students’ venture creation – while the learning process of students who pursue venturing is in line with previous research. Thus, the present article contributes by empirically demonstrating what previous conceptual contributions have suggested: that researchers should emphasise situated and social learning as an integral element of students’ learning in action-based entrepreneurship education. For practice, the findings imply that entrepreneurship education programmes, in which students learn through venture creation, should be organised in a way that leads them to establish relationships and interact with each other on a regular basis.
Analysis of the thermal variations in a moving pantograph strip using an electro-thermal simulation tool and validating by experimental tests
Authors: Delcey Nicolas , Baucour Philippe , Chamagne Didier , Wimmer Geneviève , Bucca Giuseppe , Bruyere Nicolas , Bouger Odile , Auditeau Gérard , Bausseron Thomas
Published: October 2019

The performance of the pantograph–catenary system is very significant in supplying reliable electrical power for the operation of trains. Many problems arise due to the increase in temperature inside the pantograph strip. More research works have been done to study the temperature extrema of the system but it is quite difficult to obtain the experimental values during a real-time train operation. Moreover, performing experimental tests needs a representative test bench of the system or a real train. This is challenging owing to the time and availability of materials and taking into account the number of physical phenomena to control and measure. To address this problem, the authors of this study present an electro-thermal modeling tool. The heat sources which characterize the system are analyzed to generate a heat equation formulation. This equation is solved with the finite differences numerical method in order to obtain the temperature distribution in the pantograph strip. In addition, some specifications such as computation time or required memory are taken into account. More precisely, mathematical and numerical optimizations are proposed to improve these specifications. The tool is validated by comparing the simulated results with the experimental tests obtained from a test bench located at POLIMI (Polytechnico Di Milano, Milan). Finally, thermal interpretations as well as relative gap analyses are done in different situations.
Prucalopride inhibits lung cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration through blocking of the PI3K/AKT/mTor signaling pathway
Authors: Chen M , Zhu L-L , Su J-L , Li G-L , Wang J , Zhang Y-N
Published: October 2019

Lung cancer is the main cause of cancer incidence and mortality around the world. Prucalopride is an agonist for the 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor, but it was unknown whether prucalopride could be used to treat lung cancer. To investigate the biological effects of prucalopride on proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration of lung cancer cells, and its underlying molecular mechanism in the progression of lung cancer, we performed this study. The Cell Counting Kit 8 assay was used to measure the proliferation of A549/A427 lung cancer cells treated with prucalopride. Transwell assay was applied to evaluate cell invasion and migration. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry and Western blot analyses. The expression levels of related proteins in the PI3K/AKT/mTor signaling pathway were analyzed by Western blotting. Prucalopride inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of A549/A427 human lung cancer cells. It also induced autophagy and apoptosis and decreased the expression of the phosphorylated protein kinase B (AKT) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTor) in these cells. This study implied an inhibitory role for prucalopride in the progression of human lung cancer.
The use of mobile devices and applications for health information: A survey of Croatian students
Authors: Kim Sung Un , Martinović Ivana , Katavić Snježana Stanarević
Published: October 2019

This study aims to understand the information behaviours of youth seeking health information on mobile devices and to explore differences by prior knowledge, gender and grade level. A survey was conducted in two high schools in Osijek, Croatia. Results indicate that among the total 408 participants, 84.3% reported having used mobile devices for health information and 54.7% reported having used applications for health information. Students seek health information about physical activity and eating issues/nutrition mostly on mobile devices. Students with more prior medical knowledge tend to have more information needs, perceive mobile devices as more beneficial, search health information and use health-related applications more frequently, and consider the tracking/recording/monitoring feature of applications more useful. Students with less prior medical knowledge tend to consider the video feature of applications more useful. Students rely heavily on searching health topics in search engines on mobile devices, rather than browsing or using applications. This study provides implications to better assist young people in using mobile devices and applications to manage their health issues.
Non-monotone transformation of biomarkers to improve diagnostic and screening accuracy in a DNA methylation study with trichotomous phenotypes
Authors: Yang Jianping , Kuan Pei-Fen , Li Jialiang
Published: October 2019

We propose a non-monotone transformation to biomarkers in order to improve the diagnostic and screening accuracy. The proposed quadratic transformation only involves modeling the distribution means and variances of the biomarkers and is therefore easy to implement in practice. Mathematical justification was rigorously established to support the validity of the proposed transformation. We conducted extensive simulation studies to assess the performance of the proposed method and compared the new method with the traditional methods. Case studies on real biomedical and epigenetics data were provided to illustrate the proposed transformation. In particular, the proposed method improved the AUC values for a large number of markers in a DNA methylation study and consequently led to the identification of greater number of important biomarkers and biologically meaningful genetic pathways.
A combination of near infrared and mid-infrared spectroscopy to improve the determination efficiency of active components in Radix Astragali
Authors: Liu Xuesong , Zhang Siyu , Si Leting , Lin Zhonglin , Wu Chunyan , Luan Lianjun , Wu Yongjiang
Published: October 2019

Radix Astragali is a popular herbal medicine in the pharmaceutical industry, and many studies have confirmed its significant medical value. The objective of this study was to achieve rapid determination of the main active components (astragaloside IV and total astragalosides) in Radix Astragali using near infrared spectroscopy, mid-infrared spectroscopy, and a combination of them. Partial least squares regression was applied to establish quantitative calibration analysis models. According to the prediction results, the combined near infrared and mid-infrared spectroscopy performed better than near infrared and mid-infrared models individually. The determination coefficient and root mean square error of prediction of astragaloside IV and total astragalosides were 0.998, 0.025 and 0.998, 0.098, respectively. It can be concluded that quantitative analysis models constructed by combined near infrared and mid-infrared spectroscopy had superior performance and could be used for rapid determination of main active components in Radix Astragali.
An Empirical Examination of the Overall Customer Satisfaction with the Service Delivery of Mobile Network Operators in South Africa
Authors: Mpwanya M. F.
Published: October 2019

This study examines the overall customer satisfaction (OCS) with the service delivery of mobile network operators (MNOs) in South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative method and followed a survey research design involving 2013 cell phone users located across various South African metropolitan cities. These cell phone users were conveniently sampled by means of structured questionnaires and the data collected were analysed using Stata, the Statistical Software Package. The findings from the Minnesota Customer-Satisfaction Index (MnCSI) reveal that there is a high level of customer satisfaction regarding the services received from MNOs. Despite the high rate of OCS, an alarming proportion of dissatisfied customers was also found. Such a proportion of customer dissatisfaction needs to be investigated and appropriate improvement measures are urgently needed. The study found a significant difference in perception regarding OCS, with respect to monthly income and according to the metropolitan cities in South Africa. On the other hand, no significant difference in perception was observed on the OCS in terms of gender and occupation. The study extends the current literature on customer satisfaction globally and in South Africa and provides some managerial implications.
Effect of Ethnocentrism and Attitude Towards Foreign Brands in Purchase Decision
Authors: Thomas Tijo , Singh Naveli , Ambady K. G.
Published: October 2019

Ethnocentrism refers to the intense preference for domestic products or a moral obligation to buy domestic products. With an extraordinary amount and variety of foreign goods and services now being made available to the Indian market, the level of competition faced by domestic companies has tremendously increased. This forms the need for domestic marketers to understand how the ethnocentrism and attitude of consumers towards foreign brands influence their purchase decision. In order to appeal to the Indian market better, many companies have started using patriotic advertising to evoke patriotic and nationalistic emotions among consumers. One such industry that utilizes such patriotic strategies is the automobile industry. The main objective of the study is to understand the effect that ethnocentrism and attitude towards foreign brands have on consumer’s purchase of automobiles. To measure the same, a survey consisting of a self-administered questionnaire with a sample size of 108 was conducted. For data analysis purpose, exploratory factor analysis, CART technique and regression analysis have been used in the study. CART technique has been used to develop a model keeping ethnocentrism and attitude as the base. The results of the study show that attitude has turned out to be dominant over ethnocentrism and has a significant role to play in persuading consumers to buy cars of an Indian or a foreign brand. The findings also show that ethnocentrism influences attitude which in turn influences purchase decision. The implications of the study suggest that domestic marketers should imply patriotic advertising in their marketing initiatives and also recommend them to highlight the ‘Made in India’ tag. The study also suggests foreign marketers operating in the Indian market to focus less on the country-of-origin and focus more on the technicalities of the product because attitude towards foreign brands is a major contributor towards the purchase decision.
Mexico’s Prospera Program and Indigenous Women’s Reproductive Rights
Authors: Abarbanell Linda
Published: October 2019

In this study, I examine Indigenous women’s autonomy and reproductive rights within Mexico’s Prospera program. Prospera gave women living in poverty bimonthly cash stipends for complying with requirements argued to improve the health and welfare of their families, including attending regular appointments at the clinic. Although hailed as successful, Mexico’s new administration recently eliminated the health care component, citing various abuses. Some policy experts argue that these claims are unfounded and have questioned how Mexico will now address the health care needs of marginalized populations. Drawing on more than 2 years of fieldwork (2012-2014) in a Mayan community in Chiapas, I present evidence of abusive practices related to reproductive health care based on direct observations and audio-recordings of clinical interactions and program operations in IMSS-Prospera. Furthermore, I show how the reproductive habitus that supported these actions was shaped by long-standing institutional habits and sociocultural factors that need to be directly addressed in present reforms.
Clinical Validation of Nursing Diagnoses Related to Self-Care Deficits in Patients with Stroke
Authors: Oliveira-Kumakura Ana Railka de Souza , Sousa Cássia Milena Freitas Machado , Biscaro Jessica Aparecida , Silva Kelly Cristina Rodrigues da , Silva Juliany Lino Gomes , Morais Sheila Coelho Ramalho Vasconcelos , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira
Published: October 2019

To clinically validate the defining characteristics of nursing diagnoses related to self-care deficits in feeding, bathing, toileting, and dressing in patients with stroke. A diagnostic accuracy study was conducted with a sample of 135 patients with stroke. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated based on the latent class analysis method using the random effects model. The prevalence of diagnoses was 23.5% for Bathing self-care deficit, 18.5% for Dressing self-care deficit, 13.3% for Toileting self-care deficit, and 7.5% for Feeding self-care deficit. Fourteen defining characteristics were sensitive, and 17 were specific. Hemorrhagic stroke and note 4 on the Rankin scale was associated with self-care deficits. Of the 37 defining characteristics of the four diagnoses studied, 19 were clinically validated according to the latent class analysis model. These most accurate clinical indicators contribute to the development of the care plan for patients with stroke.
Against Unseeing: Choosing an Embodied Ethics of Disidentification and Spiritual Grounding
Authors: McGuire Keon M. , Cisneros Jesus
Published: October 2019

Despite historic and ongoing critiques of objectivity as the gold standard for evaluating the value of research, many doctoral students and early career scholars encounter the pressures to situate one’s work alongside such demands. However, such a demand often conflicts with those who are multiply marginalized and liminal subjects. Drawing on women of color feminist and ethnic and cultural studies scholars, in this article we argue for engaging liminalities as possibilities in our methodological orientation against intellectual unseeing.
Authors’ Response to Commentaries on “Trouble in Paradigm”
Authors: Brush Lisa D. , Miller Elizabeth
Published: October 2019

We respond to three commentaries on our essay, “Trouble in Paradigm: ‘Gender Transformative’ Programming in Violence Prevention,” published in this symposium. Dworkin and Barker prompt us to clarify our presentation of “social norms” mechanisms that undergird paradigmatic public health violence prevention programs. Orchowski leads us to elaborate on the problems we perceive in an information-based descriptive norms approach that disregards the gendered organization of both violence perpetration and normative interactions. Finally, Hollander and Pascoe inspire us to think further about strengthening prevention programs to integrate “intersectional accountability” and be “ truly gender-transformative.”
Resting-State fMRI Study of ADHD and Internet Gaming Disorder
Authors: Han Doug Hyun , Bae Sujin , Hong Jisun , Kim Sun Mi , Son Yong Don , Renshaw Perry
Published: October 2019

Objective: We aimed to understand whether Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Internet gaming disorder (IGD) share similar brain functional connectivity (FC) between the frontal and subcortices. Method: We compared changes in clinical symptoms and brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 26 patients with ADHD but without IGD, 29 patients with ADHD and IGD, and 20 patients with IGD but without ADHD. Results: The functional connectivity (FC) from the cortex to subcortex in both groups was decreased relative to that in age-matched healthy participants. One-year treatment for ADHD and IGD symptoms increased the FC between the cortex and subcortex in all ADHD participants and all IGD participants with good prognoses compared with those in all ADHD participants and all IGD participants with poor prognoses. Conclusion: Patients with ADHD and IGD shared similar brain FC at baseline and FC changes in response to treatment.
Rich-Club Analysis in Adults With ADHD Connectomes Reveals an Abnormal Structural Core Network
Authors: Wang Bing , Wang Gongshu , Wang Xin , Cao Rui , Xiang Jie , Yan Ting , Li Hong , Yoshimura Sayaka , Toichi Motomi , Zhao Shuo
Published: October 2019

Objective: Whether the abnormal connectome of brain’s rich-club structure in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains unclear. Method: The current study used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to compare the performance of 42 adults with ADHD and 59 typical development (TD) adults. Results: A reduced density of rich-clubs among structural hub nodes, including the bilateral precuneus, the insula, the caudate nucleus, the left putamen, and the right calcarine, was found in adults with ADHD. Moreover, lower global efficiency was found in adults with ADHD than in TD, which might be caused by a reduced density of rich-club connections in ADHD patients. Conclusion: Given that adults with ADHD have greater coupling strength between structural and functional connectivity than TD adults, connectome abnormalities with a reduced rich-club connectivity density might be accompanied by altered functional brain dynamics in ADHD patients.
Phakomatous Choristoma of the Eyelid and Orbit: A Case Report
Authors: Rafizadeh Seyed Mohsen , Ghadimi Hadi , Nozarian Zohreh
Published: October 2019

Phakomatous choristoma was first described as a distinct pathologic entity by Zimmerman in 1971. Report of only 26 cases of this tumor so far is an indicator of the rarity of phakomatous choristoma. We present a 4-month-old infant with an orbital mass beneath the right lower eyelid. Surgical excision was undertaken and the histopathologic findings of a dense fibrocollagenous stroma containing small to medium size islands and glandular-like structures surrounded by thick basement membrane and filled by amorphous eosinophilic material confirmed the diagnosis. Immunohistochemical study showed positive staining for S-100 and vimentin and negative staining for cytokeratins, glial fibrillary acidic protein, smooth muscle actin, synaptophysin, CD34, melan-A, and epithelial membrane antigen markers. This is the first patient with phakomatous choristoma presented from our country and the 27th reported case worldwide. Phakomatous choristoma is a rare, benign congenital tumor of lenticular anlage, almost always presenting in the medial lower eyelid and anterior orbit. Surgical excision is curative and allows precise diagnosis due to the unique histopathologic and immunostaining characteristics of this choristoma.
Shaping Climbers’ Experiencescapes: The Influence of History on the Climbing Experience
Authors: Vespestad May Kristin , Hansen Odd Birger
Published: October 2019

Climbing is increasingly popular in certain destinations, yet there is little knowledge of the influence of history on climbing and other adventure tourism experiences. Climbing destinations renowned within the climbing community may well be unknown to the broader tourist masses. Using qualitative interviews of climbers visiting the Lofoten Islands, Norway, this article examines how the historical context of climbing has played a part in shaping the climbers’ experiences. The study discusses the influence of history, authenticity, storytelling, and image on today’s experiencescape for climbers. It is revealed how the climbing community is influenced by history through the dissemination of stories and knowledge about places, routes, and iconic climbers. Moreover, authenticity is recognized in the perception of the place and the types of route; this includes existential authenticity, where the climbing image of Lofoten remains authentic. The climbing community together shapes the experiencescape through a mutual devotion to the climbing culture.
Preoperative noninvasive artery flow volume and maturation of arteriovenous fistulae: A single surgeon’s experience from 403 cases
Authors: Blessios George , Hlepas Alexander , Diaz Alonso
Published: October 2019

Background:

Preoperative Doppler ultrasound evaluation of arteriovenous fistula inflow artery includes measurements of arterial diameter and flow volume. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of flow volume to arteriovenous fistula maturation rate.

Study design:

Review of consecutive patients who underwent arteriovenous fistula creation by a single surgeon. Cases with available preoperative arterial diameter and flow volume were analyzed. Primary end point was arteriovenous fistula failure to mature. Information collected included demographics, Doppler ultrasound reports, level of inflow artery, operative reports, and outcomes to the time of arteriovenous fistula maturation or failure. Risk factors were identified by logistic regression analysis. Outcomes were compared by odds ratio.

Results:

Four hundred and three cases were identified. Arterial diameter and flow volume were both independent significant risk factors affecting arteriovenous fistula maturation rate (p = 0.001). Arterial diameter of <2.5 mm and flow volume of <20 mL/min predicted failure to mature with 95% specificity. Further comparison of cases with optimal arterial diameter but flow volume of <20 mL/min showed increased failure to mature rate compared to the combination of optimal arterial diameter with optimal flow volume (p = 0.01)

Conclusion:

Preoperative arterial diameter and flow volume values were both significant independent variables affecting arteriovenous fistula maturation rate. However, flow volume of <20 mL/min remained a significant risk factor to failure-to-mature rate, despite optimal arterial diameter.
Reconceptualising vulnerability and its value for managerial identity and learning
Authors: Corlett Sandra , Mavin Sharon , Beech Nic
Published: October 2019

Dominant, masculinised constructions of managerial identities are associated with expectations of being in control and strong, and not with vulnerability. Managers may conceal vulnerability and protect themselves through defensive identity work, and such responses may close down learning opportunities. We reconceptualise vulnerability and recognise its value for managerial identity and learning by drawing upon Butler’s theory of vulnerability. Analysing interviews with middle and senior managers and presenting our own reflexive learning, we address a lack of empirical accounts of managerial vulnerability. We offer three processes of relational vulnerability: (1) recognising and claiming vulnerability, (2) developing social support to share vulnerability with trusted others, and (3) recognising alternative ways of conceptualising and responding to vulnerability. Rather than defensiveness in the face of vulnerability constructed as weakness, the value of vulnerability lies in its openness and its generative capacity for alternative ways of managerial being and learning.