bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Crash Location Accuracy in Electronic Crash Reporting Systems
Authors: Iqbal Adika M. , Sarasua Wayne A. , Brown Kweku , Ogle Jennifer H. , Famili Afshin , Davis William J. , Basnet Saurabh Bikram , Kumar Devesh
Published: July 2020

Over the past several years, traffic fatality rates in South Carolina have been consistently ranked among the highest in the country. Furthermore, South Carolina incurs an annual economic loss of over two billion dollars because of roadway traffic crashes. The South Carolina Department of Transportation, in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, has undertaken a series of initiatives to reduce the number of vehicle crashes, with a particular emphasis on injury and fatal crashes. One of these initiatives is the deployment of a map-based geocoded crash reporting system that has greatly improved the quality of crash location data. This paper provides an assessment of improvements in crash geocoding accuracy in South Carolina and how improved accuracy is beneficial to systematic statewide safety analysis. A case study approach is used to demonstrate practical applications and analysis techniques based on spatially accurate crash data. A survey of U.S. state highway agencies indicates that there are disparate crash reporting systems used across the country with regard to crash geocoding procedures and accuracies. Survey results indicate that not only does geocoded accuracy of crash locations vary by state, but accuracies often vary by jurisdiction within each state. Research results suggest that poorly geocoded crash data can bias certain types of safety analysis procedures and that many state safety initiatives, analysis methods, and outcomes can benefit from improving crash report geocoding procedures and accuracies.
Predictors of residual mitral regurgitation after left ventricular assist device implantation
Authors: Kimura Yuki , Okumura Takahiro , Kazama Shingo , Shibata Naoki , Oishi Hideo , Arao Yoshihito , Kuwayama Tasuku , Kato Hiroo , Yamaguchi Shogo , Hiraiwa Hiroaki , Kondo Toru , Morimoto Ryota , Mutsuga Masato , Fujimoto Kazuro , Usui Akihiko , Murohara Toyoaki
Published: July 2020

Patients with advanced heart failure often have functional mitral regurgitation. Left ventricular assist device implantation improves functional mitral regurgitation through left ventricular unloading. However, residual mitral regurgitation after left ventricular assist device implantation leads to adverse outcomes, and whether patients need concomitant mitral valve surgery is not fully elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the predictors of residual mitral regurgitation and to describe the temporal changes in residual mitral regurgitation. We retrospectively enrolled 15 patients with implantable continuous-flow left ventricular assist device, who had significant mitral regurgitation on echocardiography before left ventricular assist device implantation. Three patients had residual mitral regurgitation (mitral regurgitation color jet area/left atrial area >0.2) 1 month after left ventricular assist device implantation. We investigated factors associated with residual mitral regurgitation and compared patients with or without residual mitral regurgitation. On univariate analysis, mitral valve tethering area and mitral regurgitation vena contracta before left ventricular assist device implantation were significantly associated with residual mitral regurgitation (odds ratio, 1.03; p = 0.036 and odds ratio, 10.45; p = 0.0087). One month after left ventricular assist device implantation, the mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and pulmonary artery pressure were higher in patients with residual mitral regurgitation (pulmonary capillary wedge pressure: 11.3 ± 3.5 vs 6.4 ± 3.4 mmHg, p = 0.029 and pulmonary artery pressure: 21.3 ± 4.0 vs 15.9 ± 3.3 mmHg, p = 0.023). However, the mitral regurgitation grading and hemodynamics were not significantly different 6 months after left ventricular assist device implantation. The hospitalization-free survival was not significantly different between the two groups. Mitral valve tethering area and mitral regurgitation vena contracta were predictors of residual mitral regurgitation. Residual mitral regurgitation improved until 6 months after left ventricular assist device implantation and might not affect the prognosis.
The anti-science in the culture of group analysis (1)
Authors: Luiker Henry
Published: July 2020

This is the first of two articles examining the pervasiveness of religious, primitive and magical thinking in the culture of group analysis. I do so through the vehicle of the writings of Patrick de Maré. The article spells out what I believe to be the misunderstandings underlying de Maré’s rejection of causality, evidence and logical argument; calls into question the conventional view of de Maré’s writings as erudite but difficult; and examines the relationship between de Maré’s ideas and the way he takes up the role of large group conductor.
Evaluation of an Activity Tracker to Detect Seizures Using Machine Learning
Authors: Mittlesteadt Jackson , Bambach Sven , Dawes Alex , Wentzel Evelynne , Debs Andrea , Sezgin Emre , Digby Dan , Huang Yungui , Ganger Andrea , Bhatnagar Shivani , Ehrenberg Lori , Nunley Sunjay , Glynn Peter , Lin Simon , Rust Steve , Patel Anup D.
Published: July 2020

Currently, the tracking of seizures is highly subjective, dependent on qualitative information provided by the patient and family instead of quantifiable seizure data. Usage of a seizure detection device to potentially detect seizure events in a population of epilepsy patients has been previously done. Therefore, we chose the Fitbit Charge 2 smart watch to determine if it could detect seizure events in patients when compared to continuous electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring for those admitted to an epilepsy monitoring unit. A total of 40 patients were enrolled in the study that met the criteria between 2015 and 2016. All seizure types were recorded. Twelve patients had a total of 53 epileptic seizures. The patient-aggregated receiver operating characteristic curve had an area under the curve of 0.58 [0.56, 0.60], indicating that the neural network models were generally able to detect seizure events at an above-chance level. However, the overall low specificity implied a false alarm rate that would likely make the model unsuitable in practice. Overall, the use of the Fitbit Charge 2 activity tracker does not appear well suited in its current form to detect epileptic seizures in patients with seizure activity when compared to data recorded from the continuous EEG.
Pediatric Inflammatory and Autoimmune Neurologic Disorders at a Tertiary Medical Center
Authors: Curcio Angela M. , Bain Jennifer M. , Beck Erin S. , Vargas Wendy S.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

To describe the spectrum of pediatric inflammatory neurologic diseases and compare the sensitivity of ancillary testing for these diagnoses.

Methods:

We analyzed clinical features and outcomes of 98 children with an immune-mediated central nervous system disorder. We compared sensitivities of each diagnostic modality.

Results:

We identified the following diagnoses: acute cerebellar ataxia (n = 14; 14.3%), acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis (n = 13; 13.3%), multiple sclerosis (MS) (n = 18; 18.4%), anti- N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis (anti-NMDAR encephalitis) (n = 15; 15.3%), encephalitis not otherwise specified (n = 12; 12.2%), and “Other” (n = 26; 26.5%). “Other” included acute transverse myelitis, neuromyelitis optica, central nervous system lupus, primary central nervous system vasculitis, Rasmussen encephalitis, opsoclonus myoclonus ataxia syndrome, and clinically isolated syndrome. The mean age of onset of all diagnoses was 7.9 ± 5.5 years. The diagnostic sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis was 92.3% and 94.4%, respectively. Cerebrospinal fluid was sensitive for multiple sclerosis in 92.3%, where 75% of patients had cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal bands. Electroencephalogram (EEG) coupled with cerebrospinal fluid studies was highly sensitive for anti-NMDAR encephalitis (100%). EEG was sensitive for acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis and encephalitis not otherwise specified (77.8% and 80%). No diagnostic studies were sensitive for acute cerebellar ataxia. Seventy-three percent of patients with multiple sclerosis had residual deficits. Thirty-six percent of anti-NMDAR encephalitis patients were nonverbal and wheel-chair bound.

Conclusions:

We found that MRI is useful for detecting multiple sclerosis and acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis, cerebrospinal fluid is helpful in diagnosing multiple sclerosis and anti-NMDAR encephalitis, and EEG is often abnormal in suspected anti-NMDAR encephalitis, acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis, and encephalitis not otherwise specified. Neurologic outcome at follow-up was unfavorable in patients with multiple sclerosis and anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
The improvement of transonic compressor performance by the self-circulating casing treatment
Authors: Yan Song , Chu Wuli
Published: July 2020

The performance curve of the compressor is limited by the surge boundary, so it is of great significance to increase the stable working range of the compressor. The self-circulating casing treatment is an effective way to improve the stable working range of the compressor. In this paper, the study of the influence of the injector position of the self-circulating casing treatment on the transonic axial flow compressor rotor performance is carried out by using the numerical simulation. The influence mechanism of the injector position on the enhancing stability effect of the self-circulating casing treatment is revealed. It is found that the self-circulating casing treatment can reduce the blade tip blockage by restraining the blade tip clearance leakage flow and changing the trajectory of the tip clearance leakage vortex, thus delaying the deterioration of the rotor tip flow field and improving the rotor stability. When the injector position of the self-circulating casing treatment moves from the upstream of the leading edge of the blade tip to the trailing edge of the blade tip, the enhancing stability effect of the self-circulating casing treatment increases first and then decreases. But the high-velocity jet from the injector of the self-circulating casing treatment aggravates the mixing loss of the rotor tip flow field, so that the rotor efficiency slightly decreases after using the self-circulating casing treatment.
Archaeological and historical insights into the ecological impacts of pre-colonial and colonial introductions into the Philippine Archipelago
Authors: Amano Noel , Bankoff Greg , Findley David Max , Barretto-Tesoro Grace , Roberts Patrick
Published: July 2020

The tropical forests of the Philippine Archipelago are some of the most threatened in the 21st century. Among the most prominent threats are the introduction of new plant and animal species, as well as new forms of land management (e.g. plantations), that have accompanied industrial expansion. Such threats have a potentially long-term history and prehistory in the Philippines, not just as a consequence of Spanish colonial administration and land-use changes from the 16th century, but also in the context of pre-colonial introductions of rice agriculture and domesticated animals. However, the impacts of such arrivals on local Philippine societies and ecologies have remained relatively unexplored, especially in comparison to contemporary exchanges between Europe and the Neotropics. Here, we evaluate archaeological and historical evidence for the integration of novel plants, animals and economic strategies into local Philippine cultures and economies from 4000 years ago to the 19th century AD. This includes material culture, archaeozoological and archaeobotanical analysis, as well as archival references to pre- and post-colonial urban settlements, the evolution of land management and rural settlements across the Archipelago. We argue that prehistoric land-use changes, as well as the colonial introduction of crops and domesticated animals, represent a potentially interesting contrast to other tropical regions that came under Spanish imperial control between the 15th and 19th centuries. Nevertheless, to determine the full extent of their impacts on social organisation and Philippine landscapes more detailed, long-term multidisciplinary investigation is required.
Random effects models for complex designs
Authors: Jarrett RG , Farewell VT , Herzberg AM
Published: July 2020

Plaid designs are characterised by having one set of treatments applied to rows and another set of treatments applied to columns. In a 2003 publication, Farewell and Herzberg presented an analysis of variance structure for such designs. They presented an example of a study in which medical practitioners, trained in different ways, evaluated a series of videos of patients obtained under a variety of conditions. However, their analysis did not take full account of all error terms. In this paper, a more comprehensive analysis of this study is presented, informed by the recognition that the study can also be regarded as a two-phase design. The development of random effects models is outlined and the potential importance of block-treatment interactions is highlighted. The use of a variety of techniques is shown to lead to a better understanding of the study. Examination of the variance components involved in the expected mean squares is demonstrated to have particular value in identifying appropriate error terms for F-tests derived from an analysis of variance table. A package such as ASReml can also be used provided an appropriate error structure is specified. The methods presented can be applied to the design and analysis of other complex studies in which participants supply multiple measurements under a variety of conditions.
A review of the effects of uncertainty in public science communication
Authors: Gustafson Abel , Rice Ronald E.
Published: July 2020

Uncertainty is inherent to science and science communication. However, the evidence appears mixed regarding whether portraying uncertainty in science communication has positive or negative effects. We review a diverse range of experimental literature ( k = 48; from 40 searches and 8000 retrievals), summarize the extant findings, and observe how the effects vary across four different types of communicated uncertainty ( deficient, technical, scientific, and consensus uncertainty). The results indicate that most findings of negative effects (such as reduced credibility and beliefs) are from experiments that operationalized uncertainty as disagreement or conflict in science ( consensus uncertainty). In this review, consensus uncertainty was never found to have positive effects. In contrast, uncertainty in the form of quantified error ranges and probabilities ( technical uncertainty) in these studies has had only positive or null effects, not negative effects. We also highlight frequent moderators of the effects of uncertainty, such as prior beliefs and worldviews.
The Invisible Leash: The Impact of Organizational Expectations for Email Monitoring After-Hours on Employee Resources, Well-Being, and Turnover Intentions
Authors: Belkin Liuba Y. , Becker William J. , Conroy Samantha A.
Published: July 2020

Emerging research demonstrates detrimental effects of work-related email use after-hours on employee emotions and well-being. This article extends existing literature by examining organizational expectations for email monitoring (OEEM) during nonwork hours as an antecedent of employee low work detachment, emotional exhaustion, diminished work–life balance, and increased turnover intentions. Adapting the conservation of resources perspective, we theorize that OEEM leads to negative individual and organizational outcomes via two different paths: lack of work detachment, and emotional depletion. The findings of a study with time-separated data collected from a large sample of 570 working adults support our predictions that OEEM decreases employee work–life balance through both low work detachment and emotional exhaustion, while the indirect effect of OEEM on employee turnover intentions is mediated by employee emotional exhaustion, and by work detachment through emotional exhaustion. We also find that decrease in work–life balance is negatively correlated with employee intentions to leave the company, but that this direct effect is not significant in the full model. Finally, we demonstrate that the time employees spend on work-related emails after-hours is not the main driver of negative outcomes. Taken together, our findings highlight deleterious implications of OEEM on employee resources and subsequent organization-related outcomes.
Voluntary Exposure to Political Fact Checks
Authors: Mattes Kyle , Redlawsk David P.
Published: July 2020

For political fact-checking enterprises to be effective, two conditions must be met. Voters must be interested in fact-checks, and the fact-checks must encourage voters to reevaluate their beliefs. Here, we study the former: whether voters are interested in reading fact-checks of political candidates’ statements. We use a simulated campaign environment in which participants’ exposure to fact-checks are voluntary. We find that voters are interested in fact-checking, especially for negative campaigns and personal (versus issue) campaigns. We also find that topics salient to voters are most often fact-checked. Finally, we provide evidence for the operation of a motivated reasoning process, as statements made by less preferred candidates were more deeply scrutinized.
The Role of Storytelling in Crisis Communication: A Test of Crisis Severity, Crisis Responsibility, and Organizational Trust
Authors: Lee Hyunmin , Jahng Mi Rosie
Published: July 2020

This study tested the effectiveness of storytelling as a crisis communication strategy with a 2 (Storytelling: Present Vs. Not-Present) × 2 (Crisis Locus of Control: External Vs. Internal) experiment. The effect of using storytelling was tested on perceptions of trust, crisis severity, and crisis responsibility. Findings indicate that storytelling effectively maintains the level of trust toward the organization and reduces the responsibility attribution during crisis. However, crisis locus of control did not moderate the effects of storytelling on perceptions of the proposed dependent variables. Findings suggest practical and theoretical need to examine the use of storytelling, including ethically communicating about a crisis.
What is “Toxic Masculinity” and Why Does it Matter?
Authors: Harrington Carol
Published: July 2020

Coined in late 20th-century men’s movements, “toxic masculinity” spread to therapeutic and social policy settings in the early 21st century. Since 2013, feminists began attributing misogyny, homophobia, and men’s violence to toxic masculinity. Around the same time, feminism enjoyed renewed popularization. While some feminist scholars use the concept, it is often left under-defined. I argue that talk of toxic masculinity provides an intriguing window into gender politics in any given context. However, feminists should not adopt toxic masculinity as an analytical concept. I consider the term’s origins, history, and usage, arguing that it appears in individualizing discourses that have historically targeted marginalized men. Thus, accusations of toxic masculinity often work to maintain gender hierarchies and individualize responsibility for gender inequalities to certain bad men.
Exploring Associations Between Metabolites and Symptoms of Fatigue, Depression and Pain in Women With Fibromyalgia
Authors: Menzies Victoria , Starkweather Angela , Yao Yingwei , Kelly Debra Lynch , Garrett Timothy J. , Yang GeeSu , Booker Staja , Swift-Scanlan Theresa , Mahmud Iqbal , Lyon Debra E.
Published: July 2020

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic noncommunicable disorder characterized by a constellation of symptoms that include fatigue, depression and chronic pain. FM affects 2%–8% of the U.S. population, 2% of the global population, with 61%–90% of FM diagnoses attributed to women. Key causal factors leading to the development and severity of FM-related symptoms have not yet been identified. The purpose of this article is to report relationships among identified metabolites and levels of fatigue, depression, pain severity, and pain interference in a sample of 20 women with FM. In this secondary analysis, we conducted global metabolomic analysis and examined the data for relationships of metabolite levels with self-reported symptoms of fatigue, depression, pain severity, and pain interference. Results revealed six metabolites (6-deoxy-hexose; pantothenic acid; ergothioneine; l-carnitine; n-acetylserotonin; butyrobetaine) and their associated metabolic pathways such as carnitine synthesis, lipid oxidation, tryptophan metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism and pantothenic and Coenzyme-A biosynthesis that were either positively or inversely related to pain severity, pain interference, or both. The preliminary data presented suggest that metabolites representing energy, amino acid, or lipid classification may be associated with pain symptom severity and interference in women with FM. Future work will confirm these findings in a large, comparative cohort, targeting metabolites and metabolite pathways to better understand the relationships of metabolites and symptomology.
Morning glory optic nerve in Aicardi syndrome: Report of a case with fluorescein angiography
Authors: Al-Moujahed Ahmad , Callaway Natalia F , Ludwig Cassie A , Rayess Nadim , Wood Edward , Moshfeghi Darius M
Published: July 2020

Background:

Aicardi syndrome is an X-linked condition that is associated with multiple ophthalmic malformations. Here, we report the first published fluorescein angiography (FA) study of a morning glory optic nerve in a patient with Aicardi syndrome and contralateral persistent fetal vasculature (PFV).

Case description:

A 12-day old full-term baby girl with a normal neurological exam was referred for evaluation of microphthalmia. The posterior segment of the right eye demonstrated chorioretinal lacunae typical of Aicardi syndrome and microphthalmos with a stalk consistent with PFV. The right eye imaging could not be captured due to the severe microphthalmos and cataract, however, fluorescein angioscopy was performed. The left eye demonstrated a morning glory appearing optic disc with peripapillary chorioretinal lacunae. Fluorescein angiography of the eye showed and late staining in the areas of ellipsoid chorioretinal lacunae emanating from the optic nerve and extensive peripapillary staining and late leakage of the optic nerve.

Conclusion:

Patients with Aicardi syndrome can have morning glory optic nerve anomaly and PFV. Using FA under anesthesia to detect these abnormalities help in estimating the extend of the disease and its complications, which allows for better management of the complications.
Acetabular reconstruction using a composite layer of impacted cancellous allograft bone and cement: minimum 5-year follow-up study
Authors: Garala Kanai , Boutefnouchet Tarek , Amblawaner Rishanthanan , Lawrence Trevor
Published: July 2020

Background:

Revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) is often complex and has a less reliable outcome than primary total hip arthroplasty. Acetabular reconstruction remains a challenge because of the variable amount of bone loss. This study describes and evaluates a novel technique of acetabular reconstruction using composite bone grafting.

Patients and methods:

Between June 2005 and January 2012, 108 consecutive patients underwent revision hip arthroplasty in which the acetabular component was revised using composite bone grafting. Of these, 24 were lost to follow-up leaving 84 in the study with a minimum 5-year follow-up. There were 54 women and 30 men with a mean age of 70.1 (31–91) years. All patients were assessed clinically and radiologically after a minimum of 5 years. The primary outcome measures were rate of re-revision, patient-reported outcomes and radiological evidence of loosening.

Results:

The mean follow-up after revision surgery was 6.9 years (5–10). At operation, 60 patients had an acetabular defect of AAOS stage 3 or more. There was no evidence of loosening in 69 revision acetabular components; 12 showed evidence of non-progressive loosening and 3 patients underwent a re-revision procedure (2 for infection, 1 recurrent dislocation). The mean postoperative Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) was 89.11/100 (95% CI, 87.8–90.5). Scores were significantly improved in patients with a more extensive preoperative defect ( p  = 0.006). The overall patient satisfaction rate at final follow-up was very high.

Conclusions:

Composite impaction grafting using a layered cement and bone graft technique can give satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes in the medium- to long-term.
Sexual desire and pleasure in the context of the HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
Authors: da Silva-Brandao Roberto Rubem , Ianni Aurea Maria Zollner
Published: July 2020

This article explores both the sexual desires and pleasure in the context of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use among gays, bisexuals and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Our main findings suggest that individuals were assuming notions of natural and unnatural sex, while these categories were linked to condomless sex, acquisitions of sexually transmission infections (STIs) and their perceptions of intimacy. Individuals also believed they could enhance pleasure and desire by acknowledging their inner subjectivity and societal positions associated with PrEP. We argue that the individuals play a positive and conflicting ethic towards sex while on PrEP.
Hailstone-induced dynamic responses of pretensioned umbrella membrane structure
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Wang Fan , Deng Xiaowei , Pang Song , Liu Jian , Wu Yuyou , Xu Zhong
Published: July 2020

The membrane structure is a flexible structure, which is easy to vibrate or even relax under dynamic load. Engineering accident analysis shows that the relaxation of membrane structure is more likely to lead to structural failure. In this article, the impact load problem is combined with the flexible structure to analyze the impact of hailstone impact load on the dynamic response of membrane structure. First, the umbrella membrane stretching device was designed and manufactured, and the hailstone impact test was carried out on the umbrella membrane structure with polyvinyl chloride membrane material. Dynamic response data, tension relaxation of side cables and vibration deformation of umbrella membrane structures impacted by hailstones with different sizes and different characteristic points were obtained. In the numerical analysis, the form-finding analysis of umbrella membrane structure is carried out by finite element method, and the transient impact analysis is conducted in LS-DYNA. Finally, the reliability of the research results is verified by comparing the numerical and experimental results. The general laws and conclusions are drawn and the disaster-causing mechanism of membrane structure impacted by hailstone is revealed. On the whole, although the probability of hailstone destroying the membrane material directly is very small, it will relax the membrane structure and affect the safety of membrane structure. The conclusions of this article provide a theoretical basis for the design and maintenance of membrane structures.
Smart self-sensing fiber-reinforced polymer sheet with woven carbon fiber line sensor for structural health monitoring
Authors: Fouad Nariman , Saifeldeen Mohamed A
Published: July 2020

With the development of technology to upgrade existing concrete structures using externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer composites, the properties that are inherent in fiber-reinforced polymer sheets, such as low bonding ductility between fiber-reinforced polymer and concrete, have been highlighted as presenting a challenge. This article presents a novel, smart, self-sensing fiber-reinforced polymer sheet, by hybridizing the fiber-reinforced polymer sheet with woven long-gauge carbon fiber line sensors, in order to monitor the macrostrain changes of the fiber-reinforced polymer sheet. To examine the behavior of the smart fiber-reinforced polymer sheet, a direct tensile test was carried out. The results clarified that the carbon fiber line sensor has a linear relationship with applied stress, and the woven carbon fiber line sensor can work homogeneously with the fiber-reinforced polymer sheet as one unit. A simply supported prestressed concrete beam, strengthened with the smart fiber-reinforced polymer sheet, was tested by means of a four points bending test. This test showed that the carbon fiber line sensor can distinctly detect the cracking load and the initial debonding between the fiber-reinforced polymer sheet and the concrete surface. This article demonstrated that the fabrication of smart fiber-reinforced polymer sheet-sensing structures for structural health monitoring would be beneficial.
Enhancing vessel visibility in fundus images to aid the diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Intriago-Pazmino Monserrate , Ibarra-Fiallo Julio , Crespo José , Alonso-Calvo Raúl
Published: July 2020

Retinopathy of prematurity is a disease that can affect premature or in similar conditions babies. For diagnosing of retinopathy of prematurity, the infant is examined as soon as possible. Due to the nature of the examination, the images obtained are poor in quality. This article presents an automated method for processing fundus images to improve the visibility of the vascular network. The method includes several processing tasks whose parameters are predicted using an artificial neural network. A set of 88 clinical images were used in this work. The performance of our proposal is efficient, and the average processing time was 42 ms. The method was assessed using both the contrast improvement index and expert opinions. The contrast improvement index average was 2; this means the processed image successfully improved its contrast. Three pediatric ophthalmologists validated the proposed method and agreed that the visual enhancement can help observe clearly the retinal vessels.
Knowledge-driven drug repurposing using a comprehensive drug knowledge graph
Authors: Zhu Yongjun , Che Chao , Jin Bo , Zhang Ningrui , Su Chang , Wang Fei
Published: July 2020

Due to the huge costs associated with new drug discovery and development, drug repurposing has become an important complement to the traditional de novo approach. With the increasing number of public databases and the rapid development of analytical methodologies, computational approaches have gained great momentum in the field of drug repurposing. In this study, we introduce an approach to knowledge-driven drug repurposing based on a comprehensive drug knowledge graph. We design and develop a drug knowledge graph by systematically integrating multiple drug knowledge bases. We describe path- and embedding-based data representation methods of transforming information in the drug knowledge graph into valuable inputs to allow machine learning models to predict drug repurposing candidates. The evaluation demonstrates that the knowledge-driven approach can produce high predictive results for known diabetes mellitus treatments by only using treatment information on other diseases. In addition, this approach supports exploratory investigation through the review of meta paths that connect drugs with diseases. This knowledge-driven approach is an effective drug repurposing strategy supporting large-scale prediction and the investigation of case studies.
Assessment of engine combustion network recommendations for measurement of ignition and lift-off length
Authors: Yraguen Boni F , Poursadegh Farzad , Genzale Caroline L
Published: July 2020

The engine combustion network recommends two different imaging-based diagnostics for the measurement of diesel spray ignition delay and lift-off length, respectively. To measure ignition delay, high-speed imaging of broadband luminosity, spectrally filtered to limit collected wavelengths below 600 nm, is recommended. This diagnostic is often referred to as broadband natural luminosity. For lift-off length measurements, the engine combustion network recommends imaging of OH* chemiluminescence. This diagnostic requires using an image-intensified camera to detect narrowly filtered light around 310 nm. Alternatively, it has been shown that the lift-off length can be measured using broadband natural luminosity, avoiding the need for an intensifier and ultraviolet-transmitting optics. However, care is needed in the collection and processing of this diagnostic to accurately isolate the chemiluminescence signal. Particularly, standard intensity thresholding techniques are not sufficient for isolating the chemiluminescence signal in broadband natural luminosity images. Thus, an intensity-histogram-based thresholding method is introduced. This article assesses the feasibility and practicality of measuring lift-off length using broadband natural luminosity using a detailed comparison to OH* chemiluminescence measurements. It is shown that lift-off length measurements using broadband natural luminosity are prone to user bias error in the optical setup and data processing, especially under moderate- to high-sooting conditions. We conclude that while OH* imaging provides the most reliable and accurate measurement of lift-off length at a wide range of ambient conditions, an intensity-histogram analysis can help discriminate the high-temperature chemiluminescence signal from others in a broadband natural luminosity image at higher-sooting operating conditions than demonstrated in current literature.
A single educational intervention on heart failure self-care: Extended follow-up from a multisite randomized controlled trial
Authors: Deek Hiba , Noureddine Samar , Allam Dalia , Newton Phillip J , Davidson Patricia M
Published: July 2020

Background

Heart failure outcomes remain poor, and little is known about the causes and predictors of these outcomes in Lebanon.

Aim

The purpose of this article is to report the causes and predictors of the 6- and 12-month readmission and mortality of previously recruited patients to the Family focused Approach to iMprove Heart Failure care In LebanonQualitY intervention (FAMILY) study.

Methods

A multi-site block randomized controlled trial in three tertiary medical centers in Beirut. Initially, participants were randomized to either the control or the intervention group. The latter group, with their family caregivers, received heart failure self-care resources and an educational intervention on self-care and symptom management during their index admission. Participants from the FAMILY study were followed up with through phone calls for readmission and mortality at 6 and 12 months following their hospital discharge.

Results

A total of 218 (85%) patients were followed up with for this evaluation. There was a significant difference between the intervention group and the control group in terms of mortality at 6 months (n=18 (16%) versus n=36 (33%); p<0.05) and 12 months (n=29 (26%) versus n=45 (42%); p<0.05) post the index discharge. Mortality at 6 and 12 months was associated with aging, lower body mass index scores and readmission at 30 days post the index admission. Results of a logistic regression for mortality at 6 months showed hypertensive etiology of heart failure and 30-day readmission to be the only significant predictors.

Conclusion

A single session intervention was associated with lower mortality, even after an extended period of time, possibly mediated by other variables. Future studies should be powered for such outcomes while also addressing the cultural needs and literacy levels of the patients using multi-session trials and more frequent follow-ups.
From Start to Finish: What Factors Inhibit Student Veterans Completion?
Authors: Wagner Beverly A. , Long Roxanne N.
Published: July 2020

Student veterans experience unique challenges when returning to higher education. While the Post-9/11 GI bill creates an easier pathway for veterans, student veterans often face multiple impediments to degree completion. Using the Veterans Supplement of the Current Population Survey, we conducted a logistic regression of 4,887 veterans that predicts college retention measured by bachelor’s degree completion using six study variables of physical, sensory, and mental challenges (concentration, hearing, eyesight, walking, dressing, and going out). We conclude only difficulty hearing and walking significantly decreased the odds of bachelor’s degree completion. Recommendations for campus-student-support services are explored.
What Works in Violence Prevention Among Young People?: A Systematic Review of Reviews
Authors: Kovalenko Anastasiia G. , Abraham Charles , Graham-Rowe Ella , Levine Mark , O’Dwyer Siobhan
Published: July 2020

Violence prevention programs aim to raise awareness, change attitudes, normative beliefs, motivation, and behavioral responses. Many programs have been developed and evaluated, and optimistic claims about effectiveness made. Yet comprehensive guidance on program design, implementation, and evaluation is limited. The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date review of evidence on what works for whom. A systematic search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ERIC, and Sociology Collection ProQuest identified 40 reviews and meta-analyses reporting on the effectiveness of violence prevention programs among young people (age 15–30) in educational institutions, published before October 2018. These included reviews of programs designed to reduce (i) bullying, (ii) dating and relationship violence, (iii) sexual assault, and (iv) antisocial behavior. Only evaluations that reported on behavioral outcomes such as perpetration, victimization, and bystander behavior were included. The reviewed evaluations reported on programs that were mainly implemented in high-income countries in Europe and North America. The majority found small effects on violence reduction and victimization and increases in self-reported bystander behavior. Our findings expose critical gaps in evaluation research in this area and provide recommendations on how to optimize the effectiveness of future programs.
Original Interprofessional Simulations to Train Students in CSD and Related Health Professions in Team-Based Health Care
Authors: Eichorn Naomi , Zarn Melissa , Moncrieff Deborah , Sposto Caroline , Lee Shirleatha , Hoffman Joy E. , Levy Marian , Caplan Jason
Published: July 2020

Students in health professions receive extensive training across the scope of practice within their profession; however, most lack experience in performing clinical functions as a member of a coordinated health care team. We describe outcomes of a quasi-experimental study that used simulations to target interprofessional practice competencies. Simulations incorporated clinical knowledge from five professions, and used standardized patients to provide students with a low-stakes opportunity to apply knowledge and skills. Students observed one simulation and participated in another. Post-simulation quantitative and qualitative data were collected by having students, faculty, and standardized patients rate collaboration and decision-making skills for each interprofessional team. Results indicate differences in ratings based on simulation round and rater group. Findings highlight the need for focused training in the use of clear and empathic communication by interprofessional teams. Results also demonstrate the value of feedback from standardized patients who can provide important perspectives regarding the quality of clinical interactions.
Ballot Cues, Business Candidates, and Voter Choices in Local Elections
Authors: Adams Brian E. , Lascher Edward L. , Martin Danielle Joesten
Published: July 2020

American voters commonly express abstract support for candidates with a business background, yet there is minimal systematic evidence about whether it advantages candidates in actual electoral contests. We examine this question using observational data, drawing on a California law allowing candidates to designate their occupational background on the ballot, and experimental data. Candidates with a business background are prevalent in California. However, neither of our studies indicate that business candidates enjoy atypical overall electoral success (although Republican leaning constituencies have a notably more favorable view of such candidates). A political background predicts electoral success far more effectively. Further, “small business owners” have more success than other business candidates, suggesting that voters consider the specifics of a candidate’s business experience. These results advance our knowledge of decision making in low-information elections, how voters weigh private-sector versus political experience, and how they filter occupational information through a partisan lens.
The Effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy on Cognitive Function in Female Patients With Alzheimer's Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou ChengCheng , Wu Qingguang , Wang Zongwei , Wang Qi , Liang Youya , Liu Sijun
Published: July 2020

Previous studies have indicated that estrogen may delay disease progression and minimize the cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the evidence for an estrogen deficiency in women with dementia and cognitive dysfunction is inconsistent. In the present review, a fixed effect meta-analysis revealed that the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) group exhibited significant improvements in Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale scores relative to those observed in the placebo group, suggesting that HRT is feasible for treating cognitive decline in patients with AD. However, no significant differences in Mini-Mental State Examination and Clinical Dementia Rating scale scores were observed between the 2 groups. The results of our systematic review indicate that HRT can improve cognitive function in female patients with AD. Due to limitations in sample size and the available literature, further multicenter trials with larger sample sizes are required to support these findings.
Intracranial EEG in the 21st Century
Authors: Jobst Barbara C. , Bartolomei Fabrice , Diehl Beate , Frauscher Birgit , Kahane Philippe , Minotti Lorella , Sharan Ashwini , Tardy Nastasia , Worrell Gregory , Gotman Jean
Published: July 2020

Intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) has been the mainstay of identifying the seizure onset zone (SOZ), a key diagnostic procedure in addition to neuroimaging when considering epilepsy surgery. In many patients, iEEG has been the basis for resective epilepsy surgery, to date still the most successful treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy. Intracranial EEG determines the location and resectability of the SOZ. Advances in recording and implantation of iEEG provide multiple options in the 21st century. This not only includes the choice between subdural electrodes (SDE) and stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) but also includes the implantation and recordings from microelectrodes. Before iEEG implantation, especially in magnetic resonance imaging -negative epilepsy, a clear hypothesis for seizure generation and propagation should be based on noninvasive methods. Intracranial EEG implantation should be planned by a multidisciplinary team considering epileptic networks. Recordings from SDE and SEEG have both their advantages and disadvantages. Stereo-EEG seems to have a lower rate of complications that are clinically significant, but has limitations in spatial sampling of the cortical surface. Stereo-EEG can sample deeper areas of the brain including deep sulci and hard to reach areas such as the insula.

 To determine the epileptogenic zone, interictal and ictal information should be taken into consideration. Interictal spiking, low frequency slowing, as well as high frequency oscillations may inform about the epileptogenic zone. Ictally, high frequency onsets in the beta/gamma range are usually associated with the SOZ, but specialized recordings with combined macro and microelectrodes may in the future educate us about onset in higher frequency bands. Stimulation of intracranial electrodes triggering habitual seizures can assist in identifying the SOZ. Advanced computational methods such as determining the epileptogenicity index and similar measures may enhance standard clinical interpretation. Improved techniques to record and interpret iEEG may in the future lead to a greater proportion of patients being seizure free after epilepsy surgery.
A Reliability Study of Multiplanar Radiographs for the Evaluation of SNAC Wrist Arthritis
Authors: Saltzman Eliana B. , Wahl Elizabeth P. , Fletcher Amanda N. , Said Nicholas , Mithani Suhail K. , Klifto Christopher S.
Published: July 2020

Background: Scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) is a common form of wrist arthritis, the treatment of which depends on the arthritic stage. The Vender classification serves to describe SNAC arthritis based on a single posteroanterior (PA) radiograph. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intraobserver and interobserver agreement of the Vender classification, comparing multi versus single radiographic views. Methods: A retrospective review of patients with SNAC arthritis who underwent a proximal row carpectomy or a 4-corner fusion was performed. The included patients had 3 radiographic views of the pathologic wrist. Fifteen patients were analyzed by 5 blinded reviewers. Wrists were graded using the Vender classification first on the PA view and then using multiview radiographs. The intraobserver and interobserver agreement was determined using weighted kappa analysis. χ2 tests were calculated comparing the evaluation between single- versus multiview radiographs and determining a higher Vender stage. Results: Multiview radiographs demonstrated a higher intraobserver κw compared with single-view radiographs (0.72 vs 0.66), both representing substantial agreement. The average interobserver agreement was moderate (κw of 0.48) for single view and slight (κw of 0.30) for multiview evaluation. Evaluating multiview radiographs was 6.37 times more likely to demonstrate Vender stage 3 arthritis compared with single view (odds ratio = 6.37 [confidence interval, 3.81-10.64], P < .0001). Conclusion: Reviewing multiview radiographs more commonly yielded Vender stage 3 osteoarthritis classification. The decreased interrater reliability in the multiview analysis is likely related to the increased number of articular surfaces evaluated. Using a single PA view may underestimate the severity of arthritis present.