bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Augmented Reality Underpinned Instructional Design (ARUIDs) for Cogno-Orchestrative Load
Authors: Sharma Bhanu , Mantri Archana
Published: December 2019

In modern times the research and technology in the education sector have revolutionized the teaching-learning environment. Traditional methodologies are being supported by tech-savvy practices. These practices demand young learners to be more advanced, and modern teachers to be more
efficient. Under k-12 education program, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) are the desired domains to be learned and pursued as future professions today. It is, therefore, apparent to prepare young learners in these domains at an early stage. This situation requires an
increased mental load on learners as well as on teachers. Modern technology comes to resolve this situation to some extent where computers, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual reality (VR) gadgets, etc. help both the learners and the teachers in decreasing their mental load. The orchestration
load of the teachers and cognitive load of the learners can further be decreased using AR applications. AR can overlay virtual 3D images on real objects and enhance learning in a fun way. This paper introduces the development of Augmented Reality Learning System (ARLS) followed by an Electronics
Kit to make young learners understand the basic fundamentals of science such as electricity, current, electric circuits, working of light switch, thermister, light-dependent register (LDR) and capacitor-based circuits. This ARLS makes use of the markers overlaid on Tangible User Interface
(TUI) and shows virtual functioning of these electrical/electronic circuits. The combination of TUI and ARLS results the formation of Augmented Reality Underpinned Design Kit (ARUID Kit). Students work individually on this ARUID kit to gain new learning experience of science fundamentals.
Blockchain: Embedding Trust in Organic Products’ Supply Chain
Authors: Khare Abhishek Anandkumar , Mittal Amit
Published: December 2019

Blockchain is set to disrupt supply chain activities. Research has barely begun to assess its effects on various inter-organizational interactions and on the end-consumer. This paper explores the lack of trust that consumers of organic products have on its supply chain, why it is important
to reduce that trust gap and how blockchain is likely to help in embedding trust in it. Special emphasis has been placed on roles of smart-contracts and internet-of-things in blockchain based solutions.
A Cervical Cancer Prediction Model Using REPTree Classifier
Authors: Garg Sharvan Kumar , Kapil Manoj
Published: December 2019

Cervical cancer is the foremost gynecological disease globally. In this manuscript, we build up a Cervical Cancer prediction model that can aid medical experts in envisaging Cervical Cancer condition based on the clinical data of patients. At the outset, we choose 32 imperative clinical
attributes viz., age, hormonal contraceptives, number of sexual partners, STDs: AIDS, first sexual intercourse (age), STDs: HIV, number of pregnancies, STDs: Hepatitis B, smokes etc., in addition to four classes (Hinselmann, Schiller, Cytology and Biopsy). Secondly, we build up a prediction
model by means of REPTree classifier for classifying Cervical Cancer based on these clinical attributes against unpruned, and pruned error pruning approach. As a final point, it is concluded that the precision of unpruned REPTree classifier with Pruned REPTree classifier approach is better
than the Pruned REPTree classifier approach. The outcome acquired that which illustrates that age, hormonal contraceptives, first sexual intercourse (age), STDs: genital herpes, number of pregnancies and smokes are the foremost predictive attributes which provides enhanced classification in
opposition to the supplementary attributes.
A Bayesian Approach for Statistical–Physical Bulk Parameterization of Rain Microphysics. Part I: Scheme Description
Authors: Morrison Hugh , van Lier-Walqui Marcus , Kumjian Matthew R. , Prat Olivier P.
Published: December 2019

A new framework is proposed for the bulk parameterization of rain microphysics: the Bayesian Observationally Constrained Statistical–Physical Scheme (BOSS). It is designed to facilitate direct constraint by observations using Bayesian inference. BOSS combines existing process-level microphysical knowledge with flexible process rate formulations and parameters constrained by observations within a Bayesian framework. Using a raindrop size distribution (DSD) normalization method that relates DSD moments to one another via generalized power series, generalized multivariate power expressions are derived for the microphysical process rates as functions of a set of prognostic DSD moments. The scheme is flexible and can utilize any number and combination of prognostic moments and any number of terms in the process rate formulations. This means that both uncertainty in parameter values and structural uncertainty associated with the process rate formulations can be investigated systematically, which is not possible using traditional schemes. In this paper, BOSS is compared to two- and three-moment versions of a traditional bulk rain microphysics scheme (denoted as MORR). It is shown that some process formulations in MORR are analytically equivalent to the generalized power expressions in BOSS using one or two terms, while others are not. BOSS is able to replicate the behavior of MORR in idealized one-dimensional rainshaft tests, but with a much more flexible and systematic design. Part II of this study describes the application of BOSS to derive rain microphysical process rates and posterior parameter distributions in Bayesian experiments using Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling constrained by synthetic observations.
A Bayesian Approach for Statistical–Physical Bulk Parameterization of Rain Microphysics. Part II: Idealized Markov Chain Monte Carlo Experiments
Authors: van Lier-Walqui Marcus , Morrison Hugh , Kumjian Matthew R. , Reimel Karly J. , Prat Olivier P. , Lunderman Spencer , Morzfeld Matthias
Published: December 2019

Observationally informed development of a new framework for bulk rain microphysics, the Bayesian Observationally Constrained Statistical–Physical Scheme (BOSS; described in Part I of this study), is demonstrated. This scheme’s development is motivated by large uncertainties in cloud and weather simulations associated with approximations and assumptions in existing microphysics schemes. Here, a proof-of-concept study is presented using a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling algorithm with BOSS to probabilistically estimate microphysical process rates and parameters directly from a set of synthetically generated rain observations. The framework utilized is an idealized steady-state one-dimensional column rainshaft model with specified column-top rain properties and a fixed thermodynamical profile. Different configurations of BOSS—flexibility being a key feature of this approach—are constrained via synthetic observations generated from a traditional three-moment bulk microphysics scheme. The ability to retrieve correct parameter values when the true parameter values are known is illustrated. For cases when there is no set of true parameter values, the accuracy of configurations of BOSS that have different levels of complexity is compared. It is found that addition of the sixth moment as a prognostic variable improves prediction of the third moment (proportional to bulk rain mass) and rain rate. In contrast, increasing process rate formulation complexity by adding more power terms has little benefit—a result that is explained using further-idealized experiments. BOSS rainshaft simulations are shown to well estimate the true process rates from constraint by bulk rain observations, with the additional benefit of rigorously quantified uncertainty of these estimates.
Cost-effective Analysis of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Long-term Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Jamshed Shazia , Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth , Zeeshan Qadar Sheikh Muhammad , Alauddin Umaira , Shamim Sana , Hasan Sohail
Published: December 2019

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that results from regurgitation of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Treatment available for GERD includes lifestyle changes, antacids, histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and anti-reflux surgery. Aim: The aim of this review is to assess the cost-effectiveness of the use of PPIs in the long-term management of patients with GERD. Method: We searched in PubMed to identify related original articles with close consideration based on inclusion and exclusion criteria to choose the best studies for this narrative review. The first section compares the cost-effectiveness of PPIs with H2RAs in long-term heartburn management. The other sections shall only discuss the cost-effectiveness of PPIs in 5 different strategies, namely, continuous (step-up, step-down, and maintenance), on-demand, and intermittent therapies. Results: Of 55 articles published, 10 studies published from 2000 to 2015 were included. Overall, PPIs are more effective in relieving heartburn in comparison with ranitidine. The use of PPIs in managing heartburn in long-term consumption of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) has higher cost compared with H2RA. However, if the decision-maker is willing to pay more than US$174 788.60 per extra quality-adjusted life year (QALY), then the optimal strategy is traditional NSAID (tNSAID) and PPIs. The probability of being cost-effective was also highest for NSAID and PPI co-therapy users. On-demand PPI treatment strategy showed dominant with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of US$2197 per QALY gained and was most effective and cost saving compared with all the other treatments. The average cost-effectiveness ratio was lower for rabeprazole therapy than for ranitidine therapy. Conclusion: Our review revealed that long-term treatment with PPIs is effective but costly. To achieve long-term cost-effective approach, we recommend on-demand approach to treat heartburn symptoms, but if the symptoms persist, treatment with continuous step-down therapy should be applied.
The Origins of Lewin’s Three-Step Model of Change
Authors: Burnes Bernard
Published: December 2019

At the time of his death in 1947, Kurt Lewin was seen as one of the foremost psychologists of his day. He is now best known for his three-step model of change. However, this has been criticized for its “simplicity,” and it has even been suggested that Lewin “never developed such a model,” yet this ignores its links to the rest of Lewin’s work. Surprisingly, there appears to have been no rigorous attempt to understand the connection between Lewin’s early work on field theory and his later work on social and organizational change. In addressing this gap in the Lewin literature, this article will not only show that the three-step model of change is far from being simplistic but also that it was a well-thought-out approach to change based on his development of field theory. The main difference between the two is one of nomenclature rather than substance.
Moving out of the comfort zone? Trade union revitalisation and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Gold Michael , Preuss Lutz , Rees Chris
Published: December 2019

In recent decades, trade unions have employed a range of revitalisation strategies aimed at regaining lost power. A relatively neglected area within the literature on revitalisation concerns union engagement with corporate social responsibility. Locating trade unions within a classification of civil society organisations from the political science literature, this article presents a typology of the multiple ways in which trade unions can engage with corporate social responsibility. Data from a pan-European study across 11 countries are used to illustrate the various ways in which unions are attempting to move out of their traditional ‘comfort zone’ with respect to corporate social responsibility, each of which presents them with both new opportunities and challenges. We show how trade unions are working on different ‘pressure points’ and act as purposeful agents within certain organisational parameters and particular national frameworks. In sum, the article considers the potential that corporate social responsibility provides for trade unions, and reflects on the likely direction of revitalisation debates.
Puzzlement of a déjà vu: Illuminaries of the global South
Authors: Puwar Nirmal
Published: December 2019

The act of decentring established Euro-North American sites and flows of knowledge as longstanding geopolitical anchors of epistemological authority presents déjà vu scenarios, involved in centre-staging processes. The very position of being a messenger from the ‘North’ of knowledge and theory from the ‘South’ can reproduce the same patterns the undertaking seeks to unsettle. The context in which academic performativity is shaped is integral to both the making and taking of space in intellectual circuits of production and circulation. This article considers how centre-staging in academia performatively involves particular features. As a case in point, the focus is on the centre-staging of Boaventura de Sousa Santos (epistemology of the South) and Raewyn Connell (Southern Theory), who have become globally known for insisting on bringing knowledge from the South to the North. The wider ecology of the global circuits of academia, as well as their own performative dramaturgy, constitutes points of observation. A self-enterprising ownership of big global conceptual programmes places them high in the decentring of knowledge. There is a leap frogging over former stocks of published academic knowledge, as well as a centre-staging of knowledge projects, whereby it is they who become the flag bearers of this enterprise. Within this process it is important to recognise who is illuminated. Bibliographic tracks become traced over, in the very ways in which fields are mapped in order to produce a point of intervention.
Research Video Abstracts in the Making: A Revised Move Analysis
Authors: Liu Jianxin
Published: December 2019

This article reports on a revised move analysis of a video abstract (VA) repository curated by Cell Press. The analysis reveals that the VA displays several distinct core moves, optional moves, and move units. The analysis suggests that albeit evidence being inconclusive due to the sample size, the VA is in effect an emerging genre whose implications for further research and practice are worth discussing. The article also questions the assumed analytic pertinence of move analysis to researching multimodal genres and cautions against the uncritical use of the VAs curated by leading academic publishers and journals in professional training.
MicroRNA-421 improves ischemia/reperfusion injury via regulation toll-like receptor 4 pathway
Authors: Guo Lin-lin , Guo Ming-lei , Yao Jian , Weng Yun-qi , Zhang Xue-zhi
Published: December 2019

Objectives

The objective was to investigate the effects of microRNA-421 against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in C57BL/6 mice.

Methods

Male C57BL/6 mice (n = 27) were randomly divided into three groups: normal control (NC) group (sham-treated); I/R model group, which underwent the I30min/R24h model (ischemia for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion for 24 hours); and the miRNA group, which were injected with miR-421. Pathology was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and myocardial infarct size was measured by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. The apoptosis rate was measured by TUNEL assay, and relative expression of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), and signal transducer and activator of translation 3 (STAT3) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-10, and high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) serum concentrations were measured by ELISA.

Results

Compared with the NC group, in the model group, the myocardial infarction was large; inflammatory cell infiltration was severe; apoptosis was enhanced; expression of TLR4, JAK2, and STAT3 was increased; and serum concentrations of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and HMGB1 were significantly increased. In the miRNA group, the ischemia/reperfusion injury was significantly improved.

Conclusions

Overexpression of miRNA-421 could reduce ischemia/reperfusion inflammatory response, perhaps via inactivation of TLR4, JAK2, and STAT3.
Is sleep duration associated with self-reported overall health, screen time, and nighttime texting among adolescents?
Authors: Garmy Pernilla , Idecrans Therese , Hertz Malin , Sollerhed Ann-Christin , Hagell Peter
Published: December 2019

Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether sleep duration is associated with self-reported overall health, screen time, and nighttime texting among Swedish adolescents.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey of students (n = 1518) aged 13 to 15 years (50.7% girls) in southern Sweden.

Results

Fewer than 8 hours sleep duration before a school day was reported by 31% of students. The median time spent watching television and/or at the computer was 3 hours, and 43% of students reported texting at night one or more times per week. Sleeping fewer than 8 hours was significantly associated with poorer self-reported overall health, often being tired at school, increased screen time, and a habit of nighttime texting.

Conclusions

Short sleep duration (<8 hours) was associated with poor self-reported health, increased screen time, and nighttime texting among respondents. These results provide information for parents, educators, and school health professionals to encourage young people to adopt healthy screen habits and sleep hygiene.
Medial Nasal Bone Scoring: A Novel Technique for Improving Osteotomies During Rhinoplasty
Authors: Daraei Paul P. , Doshi Hardik , DeJoseph Louis M.
Published: December 2019

Nasal bone osteotomies are commonly performed in rhinoplasty to manipulate the upper third of the nose. In patients with a dorsal hump, reduction is often performed, followed by lateral osteotomies to medialize the nasal bone complex. However, fracture patterns are often unknown in vivo. We intend to map nasal bone osteotomies and describe a novel and minimally invasive method of performing medial scoring osteotomies to improve fracture patterns and surgical speed, and decrease complications. In total, 19 formalin-fixed cadavers were dissected to reveal nasal bone architecture. The nasal dorsum (bony and cartilaginous) was reduced to form an open roof deformity. Osteotomies were then performed on all 19 specimens, followed by digital infracture. Medial scoring osteotomies were performed unilaterally, along with a lateral osteotomy. On the contralateral side, only lateral osteotomies were performed. Fracture patterns were mapped and compared. Of 19 cadaver specimens, 38 sides were examined in total: 19 sides underwent medial scoring and 19 sides served as controls. Fracture patterns were linear with less comminution on sides with medial scoring osteotomies. Sides with medial scoring osteotomies also achieved uniform closure of the open roof deformity, compared with 73% in sides without. Rocker deformity was not seen in either group. Osteotomies are integral to nasal dorsum reduction and modification of the upper third of the nose in rhinoplasty. Scoring of the medial nasal bone prior to lateral osteotomy and digital infracture allows for an increased rate of open roof closure. Furthermore, medial scoring osteotomies create smooth, linear fracture patterns that prevent bony spicules, comminution, and irregularities that may be evident in patients with thin nasal skin. Performing the medial scoring osteotomy is a fast, safe method of achieving consistent nasal bone infracture during rhinoplasty.
Oscillating performance and propulsion mechanism of biomimetic underwater oscillatory propulsion by resonant actuation of macro fiber composites
Authors: Lou Junqiang , Yang Yiling , Chen Tehuan , Ren Xiaorong , Jia Zhen
Published: December 2019

An oscillatory propulsion driven by the resonant actuation of macro fiber composites is proposed. Specifically, the propulsion is modeled as a cantilever internally actuated by bonded macro fiber composite actuators, with a passive attachment. Underwater oscillating performances of the proposed device are investigated experimentally. Experimental results show that the maximum oscillating magnitude and velocity of the propulsion are 4.20 mm and 163.5 mm/s. Computational fluid dynamic simulations for the formation of the vortices caused by the oscillating structure are conducted. The maximum instantaneous and mean thrusts of the propulsion in the stable periods are 4.72 mN and 1.87 mN, respectively. The initiation, development, separation, and propagation stages of the vortex caused by the oscillating structure are revealed. The phenomenon of the reverse Karman vortex street is observed. The location and distribution of the vortices are also indicated. A high-velocity region between the neighboring counterrotating vortices is detected from the cycle-averaged velocity fields. The maximum flow velocity in the region is approximately 1.5 times the oscillating velocity of the propulsion. Furthermore, a jet, resembled by the flow, ejects from the propulsion tip and spreads out backwards. The propulsion travels forward by the reaction force of the pseudo-jet. Those results may be helpful for the studies on biomimetic underwater propulsion devices.
ADHD Symptoms, Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO), and Firm Performance
Authors: Yu Wei , Wiklund Johan , Pérez-Luño Ana
Published: December 2019

Recently, scholars have started to investigate the relationship between ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) symptoms and entrepreneurship, finding that ADHD symptoms positively impact entrepreneurial intention and action. However, the performance implications of ADHD symptoms are still unknown. Using two samples of entrepreneurs from the United States and Spain, we find evidence that impulsive and hyperactive symptoms of ADHD are largely conducive to firm performance through entrepreneurial orientation (EO) while inattention symptoms are not. This suggests that the performance advantages of entrepreneurs ADHD symptoms can be derived from greater focus on innovation, proactiveness, and risk-taking. We discuss the implications of our findings for the entrepreneurship literature.
Approaching minimal cognition: introduction to the special issue
Authors: Brancazio Nick , Segundo-Ortin Miguel , McGivern Patrick
Published: December 2019

This special issue highlights the growing interdisciplinary interest in minimal cognition, bringing together a number of philosophers and scientists interested in investigating where, how, and why cognition arises. In what follows, we introduce the topic of minimal cognition by giving a brief look at debates and discussions about the lower bounds of cognition, minimally cognitive behaviors, and the possibility of life-mind continuity. Afterwards, we offer a short summary of each of the contributions to this issue. In the spirit of the Minimal Cognition conferences at the University of Wollongong at which the contributors participated, we hope this special issue will enrich the current state of minimal cognition research by putting a number of different disciplines and approaches into conversation.
Information technologies in healthcare: Enhancing or dehumanising doctor–patient interaction?
Authors: Botrugno Carlo
Published: December 2019

Since the very emergence of the information technologies in healthcare, a major concern has been raised about the potential of remote services to undermine the intimacy, immediacy and humanity intrinsic to conventional, face-to-face medical practice. By contrast, notable literature reports the benefits of information technology–mediated services and their potential to improve efficiency and economic convenience of healthcare systems. This article aims to shed light on this ambivalence by retracing the evolution of doctor–patient interaction in relation to the main technological advancements in healthcare, and in particular, to services mediated by information technologies. Consequently, the reduction of cues and clues associated with the use of these services is framed into the reductionism of the biomedical paradigm, which provides a key to interpret the nature, scope and features of this process of technological innovation, along with its potential and limits.
Design and analysis of epoxy granite vertical machining centre base for improved static and dynamic characteristics
Authors: Venugopal Prabhu Raja , Dhanabal P , Thyla PR , Mohanraj S , Nataraj Mahendrakumar , Ramu M , Sonawane Harshad
Published: December 2019

The structural vibration in conventional machine tools which are generally made of cast iron may lead to poor surface finish of the machined components. This has led to the investigations on alternative materials for machine tool structures such as concrete, polymer concrete and epoxy granite which have higher damping properties but lesser Young's modulus. However, higher static stiffness with higher damping is essential for improving the static and dynamic characteristics of machine tool structures. Hence, this work focuses on replacing the vertical machining centre base made of cast iron with steel reinforced epoxy granite to improve the structural static stiffness. A finite element model of the above base is developed and validated against the experimental data obtained using modal analysis. The validated numerical approach is applied for investigating the seven progressive design configurations of base reinforced with steel. It is found that the epoxy granite base of Design configuration-7 with L-channels has significantly reduced the deformation by 56 and 36% considering milling and drilling operations, respectively, in comparison to cast iron base. Further, the natural frequencies of the above configuration are higher in all the modes (by more than 50%) under consideration than those of the existing cast iron structure. Therefore, the proposed configuration of base is a viable alternative for the existing base in order to achieve higher structural damping. The novelty of the present work is the design of epoxy granite vertical machining centre base using steel reinforcements to improve structural rigidity with ease of manufacturing.
Rethinking Youth Justice Journeys: Complex Needs, Impeded Capabilities and Criminalisation
Authors: Brooks-Wilson Sarah
Published: December 2019

This article rethinks youth justice policy and practice in terms of movement, challenging its dominant, static framing. Holistic services have a high travel burden, with absence extremely problematic for effective practice. Yet children’s youth justice journeys and their effects currently remain invisible. Evidence from 28 young people and 33 practitioners will demonstrate the urgent need to develop policies that do not punish children who are poorly placed to travel. The compulsory catapulting of ‘kinetic underclass’ members around locality settings suggests the need for policy innovation, with new ‘minimum standards’ providing effective, child-centred opportunities through comprehensive yet malleable minimum entitlements.
A process perspective on research and design issues in educational personalization
Authors: Beese Elizabeth Brott
Published: December 2019

This article proposes that educational personalization may be usefully understood from a process perspective. It defines educational personalization as that which occurs within any planning or decision-making process which runs for one student at a time, and uses information from or about individual students, in order to output educational plans and decisions for them. Importantly, understanding personalization as a process illuminates what it is that we design when we design for personalized education (that is, planning and decision-making processes) – and helpfully suggests familiar process-analytic vocabulary (e.g. ‘trigger’, ‘agent’, ‘rules’) for describing the further designable elements of those processes. It is argued that this simple, inclusive definition forms a consensus point from which to conduct research and design conversations about personalized education. In particular, it allows for the orderly comparison of diverse designs, toward increasing our knowledge of what makes for ‘good’ personalization.
Walking Toward a Brighter Future: A Participatory Research Process to Advocate for Improved Walk-to-School Corridors
Authors: Greer Anna E. , Martinez-Carrasco Alison , Goldsman Drew , Knausenberger Ann-Uriel
Published: December 2019

Inclusive place-making is an important strategy to ensure that built-environment improvements contribute rather than detract from community health. We conducted participatory research to support 15 youth leaders as they advocated for improvements to their walk-to-school environment. The project included four phases. During Phase 1 (Route and Experience Identification), we visited 21 classrooms in three Bridgeport high schools and used an interactive mapping process with students to identify the most often used walk-to-school routes. Youth leaders also collected questionnaires from 187 peers about their school travel experiences. During Phase 2 (Route Assessment), the youth leaders examined the quality of these routes using the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes assessment tool. During Phase 3 (Data Analysis), the University partners analyzed the data collected in the prior phases. Percentage scores were calculated for each segment and crossing along the routes assessed. We used chi-square tests to examine associations between students’ travel model and negative travel-related experiences. Almost all segments (82%) and crossings (91%) examined received a failing grade (<64%). In addition, a greater proportion of students who walk/cycle/skate to school rather than ride in a motor vehicle reported feeling unsafe ( p = .001), missing first period ( p = .006), and lower grades ( p = .001) due to travel-related challenges. The findings from these assessments were used during Phase 4 (Youth Campaign) to advocate for safer routes to schools. We describe both the lessons learned and successes from the project. Other municipalities might benefit from replicating the youth-led, participatory approach used in this study.
Advice on using heteroskedasticity-based identification
Authors: Baum Christopher F. , Lewbel Arthur
Published: December 2019

Lewbel (2012, Journal of Business and Economic Statistics 30: 67–80) provides a heteroskedasticity-based estimator for linear regression models containing an endogenous regressor when no external instruments or other such information is available. The estimator is implemented in the command ivreg2h by Baum and Schaffer (2012, Statistical Software Components S457555, Department of Economics, Boston College). In this article, we give advice and instructions to researchers who want to use this estimator.
Many instruments: Implementation in Stata
Authors: Anatolyev Stanislav , Skolkova Alena
Published: December 2019

In recent decades, econometric tools for handling instrumental-variable regressions characterized by many instruments have been developed. We introduce a command, mivreg, that implements consistent estimation and testing in linear instrumental-variables regressions with many (possibly weak) instruments. mivreg covers both homoskedastic and heteroskedastic environments, estimators that are both nonrobust and robust to error nonnormality and projection matrix limit, and parameter tests and specification tests both with and without correction for existence of moments. We also run a small simulation experiment using mivreg and illustrate how mivreg works with real data.
Performance simulations for categorical mediation: Analyzing khb estimates of mediation in ordinal regression models
Authors: Smith E. Keith , Lacy Michael G. , Mayer Adam
Published: December 2019

Standard mediation techniques for fitting mediation models cannot readily be translated to nonlinear regression models because of scaling issues. Methods to assess mediation in regression models with categorical and limited response variables have expanded in recent years, and these techniques vary in their approach and versatility. The recently developed khb technique purports to solve the scaling problem and produce valid estimates across a range of nonlinear regression models. Prior studies demonstrate that khb performs well in binary logistic regression models, but performance in other models has yet to be investigated. In this article, we evaluate khb‘s performance in fitting ordinal logistic regression models as an exemplar of the wider set of models to which it applies. We examined performance across 38,400 experimental conditions involving sample size, number of response categories, distribution of variables, and amount of mediation. Results indicate that under all experimental conditions, khb estimates the difference (mediation) coefficient and its associated standard error with little bias and that the nominal confidence interval coverage closely matches the actual. Our results suggest that researchers using khb can assume that the routine reasonably approximates population parameters.
The unanchored past: Three modes of collective memory
Authors: O’Connor Paul
Published: December 2019

All forms of collective memory embody attempts at meaning-making - efforts to integrate experience and provide a coherent foundation for individual and collective identities. However, different modes of collective memory have different meaning-making potentials. In this article, I will assess three modes of remembering, namely folk, commemorative and mediatised memory, from the perspective of how they generate integrative meaning. Each of these modes of remembrance will be examined through the prism of a case study examining the nature of the memories associated with a specific lieux de memoire. I will suggest that over time, memory becomes progressively ‘unanchored’ from localised contexts due to its increasing technological and institutional mediation and that this has important implications for the depth and kind of meaning it provides.
Duration of treatment with inhaled corticosteroids in nonasthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis: a randomized open label trial
Authors: Zhan Wenzhi , Tang Jiaman , Chen Xiaomei , Yi Fang , Han Lina , Liu Baojuan , Luo Wei , Chen Qiaoli , Lai Kefang
Published: December 2019

Background:

Nonasthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis (NAEB) responds well to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), while recurrence is common after discontinuing treatment. There are no data available to show whether treatment duration of ICS in patients with NAEB is related to recurrence. We aim to evaluate the effect of different duration of treatment with ICS on relapse of NAEB.

Methods:

A total of 101 patients with NAEB were recruited to the open label, randomized, parallel-group trial. Patients were randomized to receive 1-month, 2-month, or 4-month treatment with inhaled budesonide (200 μg, twice daily). Sputum induction, cough visual analogue scale (VAS), and cough symptom score (CSS) were conducted at baseline and after completion of treatment. The patients were followed up for 1 year after treatment. The primary outcome was the relapse rate of NAEB in 1 year.

Results:

ICS significantly decreased cough VAS, CSS, and sputum eosinophilia among these groups. There were no statistically significant between-group differences in cough VAS, CSS scores, and sputum eosinophil counts at the end of treatment, and no significant between-group differences in those changes from baseline to post-treatment. Significantly, more participants in the 1-month treatment group experienced a recurring episode of NAEB than those in the 3-month treatment group (41.9% versus 12.0%, p = 0.0137) at 1-year follow-up. The 2-month treatment group showed a lower tendency, with a relapse rate of 20.0% ( p = 0.0644).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that inhaled corticosteroids should be administrated for at least 2 months to reduce the relapse of NAEB.

Clinical trial registration:

The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02002715). The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
The role of the gastric bacterial microbiome in gastric cancer: Helicobacter pylori and beyond
Authors: Schulz Christian , Schütte Kerstin , Mayerle Julia , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: December 2019

A link between chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis has been depicted in many organ systems. Helicobacter pylori is the most prevalent bacterial pathogen, induces chronic gastritis and is associated with more than 90% of cases of gastric cancer (GC). However, the introduction of nucleotide sequencing techniques and the development of biocomputional tools have surpassed traditional culturing techniques and opened a wide field for studying the mucosal and luminal composition of the bacterial gastric microbiota beyond H. pylori. In studies applying animal models, a potential role in gastric carcinogenesis for additional bacteria besides H. pylori has been demonstrated. At different steps of gastric carcinogenesis, changes in bacterial communities occur. Whether these microbial changes are a driver of malignant disease or a consequence of the histologic progression along the precancerous cascade, is not clear at present. It is hypothesized that atrophy, as a consequence of chronic gastric inflammation, alters the gastric niche for commensals that might further urge the development of H. pylori-induced GC.

Here, we review the current state of knowledge on gastric bacteria other than H. pylori and on their synergism with H. pylori in gastric carcinogenesis.
Comparative Accuracy Analysis of a Real-time and an Intermittent-Scanning Continuous Glucose Monitoring System
Authors: Link Manuela , Kamecke Ulrike , Waldenmaier Delia , Pleus Stefan , Garcia Arturo , Haug Cornelia , Freckmann Guido
Published: December 2019

Background:

Currently, two different types of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are available: real time (rt) CGM systems that continuously provide glucose values and intermittent-scanning (is) CGM systems. This study compared accuracy of an rtCGM and an isCGM system when worn in parallel.

Methods:

Dexcom G5 Mobile (DG5) and FreeStyle Libre (FL) were worn in parallel by 27 subjects for 14 days including two clinic sessions with induced glucose excursions. The percentage of CGM values within ±20% or ±20 mg/dL of the laboratory comparison method results (YSI 2300 STAT Plus, YSI Inc., Yellow Springs, OH, United States; glucose oxidase based) or blood glucose meter values and mean absolute relative difference (MARD) were calculated. Consensus error grid and continuous glucose error grid analyses were performed to assess clinical accuracy.

Results:

Both systems displayed clinically accurate readings. Compared to laboratory comparison method results during clinic sessions, DG5 had 91.5% of values within ±20%/20 mg/dL and a MARD of 9.5%; FL had 82.5% of scanned values within ±20%/20 mg/dL and an MARD of 13.6%. Both systems showed a lower level of performance during the home phase and when using the blood glucose meter as reference.

Conclusion:

The two systems tested in this study represent two different principles of CGM. DG5 generally provided higher accordance with laboratory comparison method results than FL.
Metformin use is associated with a lower risk of uterine leiomyoma in female type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Tseng Chin-Hsiao
Published: December 2019

Background:

Whether metformin may reduce the risk of uterine leiomyoma in type 2 diabetes patients has not been investigated. This retrospective cohort study compared the risk of uterine leiomyoma in ever versus never users of metformin.

Methods:

Female patients with new-onset type 2 diabetes during 1999–2005 were enrolled from the reimbursement database of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance and followed up from 1 January 2006 until 31 December 2011. Analyses were conducted in a propensity score (PS) matched-pair cohort of 10,998 ever users and 10,998 never users of metformin. Hazard ratios were estimated by Cox regression incorporated with the inverse probability of treatment weighting using the PS.

Results:

A total of 321 never users and 162 ever users developed uterine leiomyoma during follow up, with respective incidence of 704.65 and 329.82 per 100,000 person-years. The overall hazard ratio was 0.467 (95% confidence interval: 0.387–0.564). The hazard ratios for the first (<23.3 months), second (23.3–53.1 months), and third (>53.1 months) tertiles of cumulative duration were 0.881 (0.685–1.132), 0.485 (0.367–0.642), and 0.198 (0.134–0.291), respectively; and were 0.751 (0.576–0.980), 0.477 (0.360–0.632), and 0.277 (0.198–0.386), respectively, for the first (<655,000 mg), second 655,000–1,725,500 mg), and third (>1,725,500) tertiles of cumulative dose. Sensitivity analyses after excluding users of sulfonylurea, users of estrogen, users of insulin, users of incretin-based therapies during follow up, patients with irregular drug refills, patients who discontinued the use of metformin, patients who received metformin prescription less than four times, or redefining uterine leiomyoma by using ‘diagnostic code’ plus ‘procedure codes’ consistently supported a lower risk of uterine leiomyoma in ever users of metformin.

Conclusion:

Metformin use is associated with a lower risk of uterine leiomyoma.
Physical health monitoring after rapid tranquillisation: clinical practice in UK mental health services
Authors: Paton Carol , Adams Clive E. , Dye Stephen , Delgado Oriana , Okocha Chike , Barnes Thomas R. E.
Published: December 2019

Background:

We aimed to assess the quality of physical health monitoring following rapid tranquillisation (RT) for acute behavioural disturbance in UK mental health services.

Methods:

The Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health (POMH-UK) initiated an audit-based quality improvement programme addressing the pharmacological treatment of acute behavioural disturbance in mental health services in the UK.

Results:

Data relating to a total of 2454 episodes of RT were submitted by 66 mental health services. Post-RT physical health monitoring did not reach the minimum recommended level in 1933 (79%) episodes. Patients were more likely to be monitored (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.39–2.29, p < 0.001) if there was actual or threatened self-harm, and less likely to be monitored if the episode occurred in the evening (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.62–1.0, p < 0.001) or overnight (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.44–0.75, p < 0.001). Risk factors such as recent substance use, RT resulting in the patient falling asleep, or receiving high-dose antipsychotic medication on the day of the episode, did not predict whether or not the minimum recommended level of post-RT monitoring was documented.

Conclusions:

The minimum recommended level of physical health monitoring was reported for only one in five RT episodes. The findings also suggest a lack of targeting of at-risk patients for post-RT monitoring. Possible explanations are that clinicians consider such monitoring too demanding to implement in routine clinical practice or not appropriate in every clinical situation. For example, physical health measures requiring direct contact with a patient may be difficult to undertake, or counter-productive, if RT has failed. These findings prompt speculation that post-RT monitoring practice would be improved by the implementation of guidance that integrated and refined the currently separate systems for undertaking and recording physical health observations post-RT, determining nursing observation schedules and detecting acute deterioration in physical health. The effectiveness and clinical utility of such an approach would be worth testing.
Emergency powers in democratic states: Introducing the Democratic Emergency Powers dataset
Authors: Rooney Bryan
Published: December 2019

This article discusses the content and causes of emergency powers in democratic states. It makes two main contributions. First, it introduces the Democratic Emergency Powers dataset, which codifies formal rules of institutional change during periods of emergency for all democracies from 1800 to 2012. These data are important because often state institutions in times of emergency differ dramatically from those in times of relative peace, and this influences government decision-making during times of crisis. I discuss the collection process and develop a measure of the latent strength in each of these emergency provisions. Second, this article examines the determinants of emergency power strength in democratic nations cross nationally. I find that previous and current conflict experience influence emergency power provision and strength, but also that domestic determinants have an impact on the types of instruments states institutionalize for times of emergency.
Bioengineering hemophilia A–specific microvascular grafts for delivery of full-length factor VIII into the bloodstream
Authors: Neumeyer Joseph , Lin Ruei-Zeng , Wang Kai , Hong Xuechong , Hua Tien , Croteau Stacy E. , Neufeld Ellis J. , Melero-Martin Juan M.
Published: December 2019

Key Points

HA-specific iPSC-derived ECs overexpress full-length F8 after genetic engineering via a piggyBac transposon system. Bioengineered microvascular grafts deliver full-length FVIII into the bloodstream and restore hemostasis in hemophilic SCID mice.
OsIAGT1 Is a Glucosyltransferase Gene Involved in the Glucose Conjugation of Auxins in Rice
Authors: Liu Qian , Chen Ting-Ting , Xiao Dong-Wang , Zhao Shu-Man , Lin Ji-Shan , Wang Ting , Li Yan-Jie , Hou Bing-Kai
Published: December 2019

Background

In cereal crop rice, auxin is known as an important class of plant hormone that regulates a plethora of plant growth and development. Glycosylation of auxin is known to be one of the important mechanisms mediating auxin homeostasis. However, the relevant auxin glucosyltransferase (GT) in rice still remains largely unknown.

Results

In this study, using known auxin glucosyltransferases from other species as queries, twelve putative auxin UDP-glycosyltransferase (UGT) genes were cloned from rice and the one showing highest sequence similarity, named as OsIAGT1, was expressed as recombinant protein. In vitro enzymatic analysis showed that recombinant OsIAGT1 was capable of catalyzing glucosylation of IAA, IBA and other auxin analogs, and that OsIAGT1 is quite tolerant to a broad range of reaction conditions with peak activity at 30 °С and pH 8.0. OsIAGT1 showed favorite activity towards native auxins over artificially synthesized ones. Further study indicated that expression of OsIAGT1 can be upregulated by auxin in rice, and with OsIAGT1 overexpressing lines we confirmed that OsIAGT1 is indeed able to glucosylate IAA in vivo. Consistently, ectopic expression of OsIAGT1 leads to declined endogenous IAA content, as well as upregulated auxin synthesis genes and reduced expression of auxin-responsive genes, which likely leads to the reduced plant stature and root length in OsIAGT1 overexpression lines.

Conclusion

Our result indicated that OsIAGT1 plays an important role in mediating auxin homeostasis by catalyzing auxin glucosylation, and by which OsIAGT1 regulates growth and development in rice.