bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Entropy on the Performance of Modified Genetic Algorithm Using Earthquake and Wind Time Series
Authors: Vargas Manuel , Fuertes Guillermo , Alfaro Miguel , Gatica Gustavo , Gutierrez Sebastian , Peralta María
Published: August 2018

The dynamic complexity of time series of natural phenomena allowed to improve the performance of the genetic algorithm to optimize the test mathematical functions. The initial populations of stochastic origin of the genetic algorithm were replaced using the series of time of winds and earthquakes. The determinism of the time series brings in more information in the search of the global optimum of the functions, achieving reductions of time and an improvement of the results. The information of the initial populations was measured using the entropy of Shannon and allowed to establish the importance of the entropy in the initial populations and its relation with getting better results. This research establishes a new methodology for using determinism time series to search the best performance of the models of optimization of genetic algorithms (GA).
Serological and Molecular Surveillance of Infectious Bronchitis Virus Infection in Free-Range Chickens and Guinea Fowls in the Ga-East District of Ghana
Authors: Ayim-Akonor Matilda , Owusu-Ntumy Doreen Dela , Ohene-Asa Hilda Emefa , Oduro-Abrokwa Agyekum , Hammond Patricia , Appenteng Michael , Annan Daniel
Published: August 2018

Infectious bronchitis is an economically important disease with worldwide distribution. Information is available on the presence of infectious bronchitis virus in commercial chicken in parts of Ghana but there is no information on free-range poultry and guinea fowls in the country. Possible IBV infections among free-range chickens and guinea fowls in Abokobi and Frafraha communities in the Ga-East district of the Greater Accra Region of Ghana were investigated using serology and PCR. Blood, tracheal, and cloacal swabs were obtained from 219 free-range chickens and guinea fowls with no respiratory symptoms and no history of IBV vaccination. Sera were evaluated for IBV antibodies by ELISA using commercial IBV test kit from IDEXX, Inc., USA. Swab samples were evaluated for S1 glycoprotein gene by one-step RT PCR. All the swab samples tested negative for IBV. 16% of all tested sera were positive for IBV. IBV seroprevalence in guinea fowls was 0%. 21.2% of sera from local chickens were positive for IBV. The seroprevalence of IBV among local chickens from Frafraha was 30% and that of Abokobi was 7.7%. This study shows exposure of local chickens in the study communities to IBV.
Advanced Stage Breast Sarcoma Treatment in a Third World Country Public Hospital
Authors: Faria Amanda Lino de , Garcia Cinthia Moreno , Rodrigues Gabriela de Andrade , Santos Lais Helena Dumbra Toloni dos , Uyeda Gabriela B. K. , Elias Simone , Sartori Marair G. F. , Nazário Afonso Celso Pinto , Facina Gil
Published: August 2018

The case reports a 49-year-old patient, drug-addicted, undernourished, and homeless, who was referred to our service presenting a diagnostic of breast sarcoma and ulcerating tumor which extended from the right breast to the right flank. She underwent hygienic mastectomy and, as it developed, she presented a range of complications, culminating in the recurrence of the tumor and pulmonary metastasis few months after her initial treatment. There is relevance in our study not only because it reports the development of the breast sarcoma, rare neoplasm, and its aggressiveness with fast recurrence, but also because it exposes the impact of biopsychosocial behavior of this patient in her clinical outcome.
Cytokine Levels and Human Herpesviruses in Saliva from Clinical Periodontal Healthy Subjects with Peri-Implantitis: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Marques Filho Jaime S. , Gobara Jorge , da Silva Salomao Gustavo Vargas , Sumita Laura M. , Shibli Jamil A. , Viana Renato G. , Schwartz Filho Humberto O. , Pannuti Claudio Sergio , Braz-Silva Paulo Henrique , Pallos Debora
Published: August 2018

This study evaluated the presence of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and TNF-α) and human herpesvirus (HSV1, HSV2, EBV, CMV, VZV, HHV6, HHV7, and HHV8) in saliva samples taken from subjects with and without peri-implantitis. Forty-two periodontally healthy subjects were divided according to peri-implant condition: healthy and peri-implantitis groups. The clinical parameters as probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index, gingival bleeding, bleeding on probing, and suppuration were evaluated. For cytokine detection, multiplex analysis was performed, and PCR assay was used to identify herpesviruses. No significant differences were found in cytokine levels between groups (p>0.05). The presence of herpesvirus was 1.97-fold higher in patients with peri-implantitis (odds ratio, CI 0.52–7.49). The association of the presence or absence of herpesvirus with the salivary markers was statistically significant for MIP-1β(p=0.0087) and TNF-α(p=0.0437) only in the peri-implantitis group. The presence of herpesviruses in patients with peri-implantitis suggests the development of a proinflammatory environment, which is characterized by increased expression of MIP-1βand TNF-αin saliva.
Comparison between In Vitro Antiviral Effect of Mexican Propolis and Three Commercial Flavonoids against Canine Distemper Virus
Authors: González-Búrquez María de Jesús , González-Díaz Francisco Rodolfo , García-Tovar Carlos Gerardo , Carrillo-Miranda Liborio , Soto-Zárate Carlos Ignacio , Canales-Martínez María Margarita , Penieres-Carrillo José Guillermo , Crúz-Sánchez Tonatiuh Alejandro , Fonseca-Coronado Salvador
Published: August 2018

Propolis is a resin that honey bees (Apis mellifera) produce by mixing wax, exudates collected from tree shoots, pollen, and enzymes. It has been used for its biological properties against pathogenic microorganisms including those of viral origin. In the present study, we demonstrate the antiviral effect of Mexican propolis, as well as of the three commercial flavonoids (quercetin, naringenin, and pinocembrin) present in its composition, in cell cultures infected with Canine Distemper Virus. The treatments were carried out with propolis, flavonoids individually, and a mixture of the three flavonoids at three different times. Antiviral activity was evaluated by the inhibition of the relative expression of the virus nucleoprotein gene (Real‐Time qPCR) and by the determination of cellular viability (MTT assay). Propolis applied before infection decreased viral expression (0.72 versus 1.0, 1.65, and 1.75 relative expressions) and correlated with increased cell viability (0.314 versus 0.215, 0.259, and 0.237 absorbance units (AU)). The administration of a flavonoid mixture containing the three commercial flavonoids before infection induces a slight decrease in viral expression (0.93 versus 1, 1.42, and 1.82 relative expressions); however, it does not improve cellular viability (0.255 versus 0.247, 0.282, and 0.245 AU). Quercetin administrated at the same time of infection decreases viral expression (0.90 versus 1.0, 3.25, and 1.02 relative expressions) and improves cellular viability (0.294 versus 0.240, 0.250, and 0.245 AU). Pinocembrin and naringenin individually did not show any antiviral activity at the administration times evaluated in this study. The present work is the first in vitro study of the effect of propolis in Canine Distemper Virus and demonstrated the antiviral activity of Mexican propolis, in addition to the synergy that exists between the three flavonoids on cell viability and the expression of the nucleoprotein virus gene.
Differential Proteomic Analysis Predicts Appropriate Applications for the Secretome of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Niada Stefania , Giannasi Chiara , Gualerzi Alice , Banfi Giuseppe , Brini Anna Teresa
Published: August 2018

The adult stem cell secretome is currently under investigation as an alternative to cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine, thanks to the remarkable translational opportunity and the advantages in terms of handling and safety. In this perspective, we recently demonstrated the efficient performance of the adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (ASC) secretome in contrasting neuroinflammation in a murine model of diabetic neuropathy, where the administration of factors released by dermal fibroblasts (DFs) did not exert any effect. Up to now, the complex mixture of the constituents of the conditioned medium from ASCs has not been fully deepened, although its appropriate characterization is required in the perspective of a clinical use. Herein, we propose the differential proteomic approach for the identification of the players accounting for the functional effects of the cell secretome with the aim to unravel its appropriate applications. Out of 967 quantified proteins, 34 and 62 factors were found preponderantly or exclusively secreted by ASCs and DFs, respectively. This approach led to the recognition of distinct functions related to the conditioned medium of ASCs and DFs, with the former being involved in the regulation of neuronal death and apoptosis and the latter in bone metabolism and ossification. The proosteogenic effect of DF secretome was validatedin vitroon human primary osteoblasts, providing a proof of concept of its osteoinductive potential. Besides discovering new applications of the cell type-specific secretome, the proposed strategy could allow the recognition of the cocktail of bioactive factors which might be responsible for the effects of conditioned media, thus providing a solid rationale to the implementation of a cell-free approach in several clinical scenarios involving tissue regeneration.
An Extreme Learning Machine‐Based Community Detection Algorithm in Complex Networks
Authors: Wang Feifan , Zhang Baihai , Chai Senchun , Xia Yuanqing
Published: August 2018

Community structure, one of the most popular properties in complex networks, has long been a cornerstone in the advance of various scientific branches. Over the past few years, a number of tools have been used in the development of community detection algorithms. In this paper, by means of fusing unsupervised extreme learning machines and the k‐means clustering techniques, we propose a novel community detection method that surpasses traditional k‐means approaches in terms of precision and stability while adding very few extra computational costs. Furthermore, results of extensive experiments undertaken on computer‐generated networks and real‐world datasets illustrate acceptable performances of the introduced algorithm in comparison with other typical community detection algorithms.
Unusual Malposition of a Chest Tube, Intrathoracic but Extrapleural
Authors: Al Mosa Alqasem Fuad H. , Ishaq Mohammed , Ahmed Mohamed Hussein Mohamed
Published: August 2018

Chest tube malpositioning is reported to be the most common complication associated with tube thoracostomy. Intraparenchymal and intrafissural malpositions are the most commonly reported tube sites. We present a case about a 21-year-old patient with cystic fibrosis who was admitted due to bronchiectasis exacerbation and developed a right-sided pneumothorax for which a chest tube was inserted. Partial initial improvement in the pneumothorax was noted on the chest radiograph, after which the chest tube stopped functioning and the pneumothorax remained for 19 days. Chest computed tomography was done and revealed a malpositioned chest tube in the right side located inside the thoracic cavity but outside the pleural cavity (intrathoracic, extrapleural). The removed chest tube was patent with no obstructing materials in its lumen. A new thoracostomy tube was inserted and complete resolution of the pneumothorax followed.
Neuroprotective Effects of Cerebral Ischemic Preconditioning in a Rat Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model: The Role of the Notch Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Li , Huang Kuan , Wang Rong , Jiang Qiong , Wu Zhenghua , Liang Weidong , Guo Rui , Wang Lifeng
Published: August 2018

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a major problem worldwide. The Notch signaling pathway plays an important role in neural progenitor cell differentiation and in the inflammatory response after central nervous system injury. This study evaluated whether the neuroprotective effect of cerebral ischemic preconditioning (cIPC) is mediated by the preactivation of the Notch signaling pathway. A rat middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) model and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) cell model were constructed to detect the neuroprotective effects of cIPC. In in vivo experiments, cIPC reduces the neurological functional deficit, cerebral infarction, and cellular apoptosis in the hippocampus induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R), thus indicating that cIPC can improve neurologic function. Moreover, cIPC can reveal the expression peak of Jagged1, Notch1, NICD, and Hes1 protein, thereby indicating that cIPC can preactivate Notch signaling. However, cIPC-induced improvements in neurologic function are compromised by the γ-secretase inhibitor N-(N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-1-alanyl)-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester (DAPT). In in vitro experiments, OGD preconditioning (OGDPC) can clearly upregulate Notch1 expression in the OGD/R-treated neuron and neural stem cell. Notch1 pre-overexpression can decrease neuron death and apoptosis under OGD/R treatment. Notch1 pre-overexpression can decrease the percentage of G1 stage cells and increase the percentage of S stage cells in OGD/R-treated neural stem cell. Furthermore, Notch1 pre-knockdown has the opposite effect on cell survival, apoptosis, and cycle in both OGD/R-treated neuron and neural stem cell. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the neuroprotective effects of cIPC in a rat MCAO/R model are mediated by the preactivation of the Notch signaling pathway.
The Exact Iterative Solution of Fractional Differential Equation with Nonlocal Boundary Value Conditions
Authors: Mao Jinxiu , Zhao Zengqin , Wang Chenguang
Published: August 2018

We deal with a singular nonlocal fractional differential equation with Riemann-Stieltjes integral conditions. The exact iterative solution is established under the iterative technique. The iterative sequences have been proved to converge uniformly to the exact solution, and estimation of the approximation error and the convergence rate have been derived. An example is also given to demonstrate the results.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Most Prominent Gene Candidates to Distinguish Colorectal Adenoma from Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hauptman Nina , Boštjančič Emanuela , Žlajpah Margareta , Ranković Branislava , Zidar Nina
Published: August 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of death by cancer worldwide. Bowel cancer screening programs enable us to detect early lesions and improve the prognosis of patients with CRC. However, they also generate a significant number of problematic polyps, e.g., adenomas with epithelial misplacement (pseudoinvasion) which can mimic early adenocarcinoma. Therefore, biomarkers that would enable us to distinguish between adenoma with epithelial misplacement (pseudoinvasion) and adenoma with early adenocarcinomas (true invasion) are needed. We hypothesized that the former are genetically similar to adenoma and the latter to adenocarcinoma and we used bioinformatics approach to search for candidate genes that might be potentially used to distinguish between the two lesions. We used publicly available data from Gene Expression Omnibus database and we analyzed gene expression profiles of 252 samples of normal mucosa, colorectal adenoma, and carcinoma. In total, we analyzed 122 colorectal adenomas, 59 colorectal carcinomas, and 62 normal mucosa samples. We have identified 16 genes with differential expression in carcinoma compared to adenoma:COL12A1,COL1A2,COL3A1, DCN, PLAU, SPARC, SPON2, SPP1,SULF1,FADS1, G0S2, EPHA4, KIAA1324,L1TD1, PCKS1, andC11orf96. In conclusion, ourin silicoanalysis revealed 16 candidate genes with different expression patterns in adenoma compared to carcinoma, which might be used to discriminate between these two lesions.
Cortical AAV-CNTF Gene Therapy Combined with Intraspinal Mesenchymal Precursor Cell Transplantation Promotes Functional and Morphological Outcomes after Spinal Cord Injury in Adult Rats
Authors: Hodgetts Stuart I. , Yoon Jun Han , Fogliani Alysia , Akinpelu Emmanuel A. , Baron-Heeris Danii , Houwers Imke G. J. , Wheeler Lachlan P. G. , Majda Bernadette T. , Santhakumar Sreya , Lovett Sarah J. , Duce Emma , Pollett Margaret A. , Wiseman Tylie M. , Fehily Brooke , Harvey Alan R.
Published: August 2018

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) promotes survival and enhances long-distance regeneration of injured axons in parts of the adult CNS. Here we tested whether CNTF gene therapy targeting corticospinal neurons (CSN) in motor-related regions of the cerebral cortex promotes plasticity and regrowth of axons projecting into the female adult F344 rat spinal cord after moderate thoracic (T10) contusion injury (SCI). Cortical neurons were transduced with a bicistronic adeno-associated viral vector (AAV1) expressing a secretory form of CNTF coupled to mCHERRY (AAV-CNTFmCherry) or with control AAV only (AAV-GFP) two weeks prior to SCI. In some animals, viable or nonviable F344 rat mesenchymal precursor cells (rMPCs) were injected into the lesion site two weeks after SCI to modulate the inhibitory environment. Treatment with AAV-CNTFmCherry, as well as with AAV-CNTFmCherry combined with rMPCs, yielded functional improvements over AAV-GFP alone, as assessed by open-field and Ladderwalk analyses. Cyst size was significantly reduced in the AAV-CNTFmCherry plus viable rMPC treatment group. Cortical injections of biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) revealed more BDA-stained axons rostral and alongside cysts in the AAV-CNTFmCherry versus AAV-GFP groups. After AAV-CNTFmCherry treatments, many sprouting mCherry-immunopositive axons were seen rostral to the SCI, and axons were also occasionally found caudal to the injury site. These data suggest that CNTF has the potential to enhance corticospinal repair by transducing parent CNS populations.
Advances in Tendon and Ligament Tissue Engineering: Materials Perspective
Authors: Alshomer Feras , Chaves Camilo , Kalaskar Deepak M.
Published: August 2018

Introduction. Tendons are specialised, heterogeneous connective tissues, which represent a significant healthcare challenge after injury. Primary surgical repair is the gold standard modality of care; however, it is highly dependent on the extent of injuries. Tissue engineering represents an alternative solution for good tissue integration and regeneration. In this review, we look at the advanced biomaterial composites employed to improve cellular growth while providing appropriate mechanical properties for tendon and ligament repair. Methodology. Comprehensive literature searches focused on advanced composite biomaterials for tendon and ligament tissue engineering. Studies were categorised depending on the application. Results. In the literature, a range of natural and/or synthetic materials have been combined to produce composite scaffolds tendon and ligament tissue engineering. In vitro and in vivo assessment demonstrate promising cellular integration with sufficient mechanical strength. The biological properties were improved with the addition of growth factors within the composite materials. Most in vivo studies were completed in small-scale animal models. Conclusions. Advanced composite materials represent a promising solution to the challenges associated with tendon and ligament tissue engineering. Nevertheless, these approaches still demonstrate limitations, including the necessity of larger-scale animal models to ease future clinical translation and comprehensive assessment of tissue response after implantation.
A urbanização moçambicana: uma proposta de interpretação
Authors: Custódio Vanderli , Maloa Joaquim Miranda
Published: August 2018

O objetivo geral deste artigo é propor uma interpretação da urbanização moçambicana contemporânea, que se manifesta na paisagem como cada vez mais dual. De um lado, apresentando áreas urbanizadas e planificadas e um núcleo de desenvolvimento vertical com infraestrutura e serviços; de outro, a periferia, de desenvolvimento horizontal, majoritariamente não planificada, de construção precária e com escassas infraestruturas e serviços urbanos. Para tanto, o estudo buscou identificar e caracterizar as diferentes etapas da formação socioespacial moçambicana. Recorreu à geografia histórica urbana como ferramenta analítica para o tratamento do material empírico colhido em diversas fontes. O trabalho adota dois eixos de análise: o período colonial e o pós-colonial. No período colonial, buscou-se compreender os fatores responsáveis pela urbanização moçambicana dos quais somos herdeiros. No segundo, apreender a dinâmica urbana produzida no período pós-colonial. Ainda nesse eixo, procurou-se captar as continuidades e descontinuidades do processo, identificando alguns arranjos que se verificam ao longo do tempo e suas múltiplas determinações, que acentuam cada vez mais a segregação urbana entre o núcleo e a periferia, não só organizando a dualidade urbana, mas exprimindo novas formas de segregação urbana – a gentrificação.
O júri simulado como proposta didático-pedagógica para a formação inicial do professor de geografia na perspectiva da aprendizagem baseada em problemas (PBL)
Authors: Veiga Léia Aparecida , Fonseca Ricardo Lopes
Published: August 2018

Este estudo tem o objetivo de discutir o uso da metodologia ativa a partir de uma problematização junto à formação inicial do professor de geografia, buscando mesclar elementos da PBL (problem-based learning) com o júri simulado. Diferentemente do modelo convencional adotado nas instituições de ensino, a aprendizagem baseada em problemas (PBL) parte do problema para motivar e iniciar a aprendizagem. Essa experiência decorreu da aplicação de elementos da PBL juntamente com a prática do júri simulado numa disciplina presencial do curso de geografia na Universidade Estadual de Londrina. No que tange aos resultados, é possível afirmar que, entre os grupos de alunos que se envolveram na atividade, esse trabalho com uma proposta ativa por parte dos alunos ampliou seu conhecimento e reforçou sua autonomia, suas decisões e sua responsabilidade com o compromisso assumido.
The European Court of Human Rights on Negotiated Justice and Coercion
Authors: Bachmaier Lorena
Published: August 2018

The present study analyses the approach the European Court of Human Rights’ to negotiated criminal justice and plea agreements in its landmark case, Natsvlishvili v Georgia. At the sight of the US Supreme Court case law and the practice of plea bargaining in the United States, I will argue why the institutional context and other external elements should be taken into account to determine if the guilty plea system has become coercive. I will further question if the approach of the ECtHR, applying strictly the criteria set out by the US Supreme Court should be followed when defining European standards on plea agreements.
The Heart of Know Your Customer Requirements: The Discriminatory Effect of AML and CTF Policies in Times of Counter-Terrorism in the UK
Authors: Sciurba Michele
Published: August 2018

The duties of loyalty and confidentiality are central to the relationship between banks and their customers. In the wake of national and international security concerns, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) legislation have put banks at risk for excessive sanctions and legal liability for failing to comply with these laws. In response, banks have adopted de-risking policies that undermine the banks’ confidential relationship to their customers. In order to limit their own risk, banks act pre-emptively by denying accounts to customers or terminate existing accounts of legitimate customers based on risk profiles. Consequently, banks become de facto extensions of law enforcement. This provides incentives to banks to discriminate against entire groups of customers and to dispense with less profitable customers in the name of mitigating risk. The risk-profiling policies of banks raise civic and human rights concerns, which extend beyond the private relationship between the bank and its customer.
Forced Migration and Immigration Programs for Children: The Emergence of a Social Movement
Authors: Engel Madeline H. , Phillips Norma Kolko , Della Cava Frances A.
Published: August 2018

As a result of industrialisation, urbanisation, and mass migrations, the problem of homeless and abandoned children emerged in urban centres. Identified by some as dangerous and threatening to the existing social order, solutions to rescue or control the children were sought, including placing-out through forced migration and immigration programs, with no plan or intention of family reunification. This article examines two experimental programs that took the form of forced migration/immigration between the mid-1800s and mid-1900s – the “Orphan Trains” in the United States and the British “Child Migrant Programme”. The dire consequences of these programs gained public attention and had a profound impact on the development of the global emerging child welfare movement and concerns for the rights of children.
Revised typification of Gomphrena argentina (Amaranthaceae s. str.)
Authors: ALVARENGA BRAGA JOÃO MARCELO
Published: August 2018

Gomphrena Linnaeus (1753: 224) (Gomphrenoideae Schinz, Amaranthaceae Juss.) is a genus including about 120 species, with center of diversity in the New World, and higher species richness in Central Andes, in argentinean and bolivian Puna, and Caatinga, and Cerrado habitats in Brazil (see e.g., Muller & Borsch 2005; Sánchez del Pino et al. 2009).
Upside down: Reframing European Defence Studies
Authors: Meijer Hugo , Wyss Marco
Published: August 2018

Since the end of the Cold War, the study of European defence has been dominated by a ‘Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP)-centric’ approach, while largely neglecting the comparative analysis of national defence policies. This article makes a conceptual and empirical case for turning the dominant research prism of European defence studies upside down by returning the analytical precedence to the national level. This approach privileges the comparative analysis of national defence policies and armed forces, before focusing on the trans-/supra-national level. The case for this analytical turn is made in three steps. Firstly, it addresses the different historical stages in European defence integration and the transformation of national armed forces and thereby brings to light the recent renationalization of defence in Europe. Secondly, it questions the predominance of the CSDP in the scholarly literature on European defence. Finally, it seeks to demonstrate the fruitfulness of such a démarche by empirically substantiating common patterns and intra-European divergences in the evolution of national defence policies and armed forces since the end of the Cold War. After having shown the need and added benefit of turning the analytical lense of European defence studies on its head, the conclusion suggests future avenues of research on national defence policies and armed forces in Europe.
Everyday Substance Insecurity Among Homeless Injection Drug Users in Israel’s Largest Open Drug Scene
Authors: Bonny-Noach Hagit , Ronel Natti
Published: August 2018

Limited attention has been given to Homeless Injection Drug Users (HIDUs) perceived need for illegal substances. This study assessed self-perceived illegal drug need in HIDUs based on their experiences. Observations and in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 11 HIDUs and with four treatment professionals. The findings revealed three findings concerning the unique experiences and perceptions of HIDUs: (a) Everyday Substance Need caused fear and anxiety, (b) Substance Need was experienced as more urgent than basic survival needs, and (c) HIDU participants attributed misunderstanding and denial of Substance Need to the authorities. It was found that HIDUs suffer from “Substance Insecurity,” which may be defined as the uncertain availability of quality substances (or their substitutes) and uncertain ability to acquire substances/substitutes and safe injection equipment in socially acceptable (or not) ways. Increased awareness of Substance Insecurity for HIDUs as a Substance Security First (SSF) model should be adopted.
U.S. Department of Corrections Compassionate Release Policies: A Content Analysis and Call to Action
Authors: Holland Margaret M. , Prost Stephanie Grace , Hoffmann Heath C. , Dickinson George E.
Published: August 2018

Large and increasing numbers of inmates with chronic and terminal illnesses are serving time, and dying, in U.S. prisons. The restriction of men and women to die in prisons has many ethical and fiscal concerns, as it deprives incarcerated persons of their autonomy and requires comprehensive and costly health-care services. To ameliorate these concerns, compassionate release policies, which allow inmates the ability to die in their own communities, have been adopted in federal and state prison systems. However, little is known about the content of compassionate release policies within U.S. states’ department of corrections, despite recent calls to release incarcerated persons who meet eligibility criteria into the community. The current study provides an overview of compassionate release policies in the United States, which vary widely across the compassionate release process. Specific policy recommendations are made to assure the timely access and utilization of compassionate release among eligible incarcerated individuals.
Analyzing the Social Construction of Media Claims: Enhancing Media Literacy in Social Problems Classes
Authors: Platts Todd K.
Published: August 2018

Recent research has called on scholars to develop pedagogical interventions to address issues of media literacy. This teaching note answers that call by describing a media literacy project designed for use in social problems classes. The project acquaints students to the constructionist approach to social problems and the method of content analysis. Guided by the principles of scaffolding, the note discusses how students are guided through a series of readings, assignments, and activities that enables them to analyze how social problems are portrayed in news media. Analysis of student papers and comments reveals an increased understanding of the rhetorical strategies that are commonplace in media coverage of social problems. While designed for social problems, the project can be adjusted and modified for use in other sociology courses.
Applying the Generalized Logistic Model in Single Case Designs: Modeling Treatment-Induced Shifts
Authors: Verboon Peter , Peters Gjalt-Jorn Ygram
Published: August 2018

Many analytical approaches to single-case data assume either linear effects (regression-based methods) or instant effects (mean-based methods). Neither assumption is realistic; therefore, these approaches’ assumptions are often violated. In this article, we propose modeling curvilinear effects to appropriately parametrize the characteristics of singe-case data. Specifically, we introduce the generalized logistic function as adequate function for this situation. The merits of the proposed procedure are demonstrated using data previously used in single case research that represent typical single case data. We provide the function with auxiliary graphical options to demonstrate the model parameters. The function is freely available in the R package “userfriendlyscience.” The proposed procedure is a new way to analyze single case data, which may provide applied single case researchers with a new tool to better understand their data and avoid applying methods with violated assumptions.
Disapproved, but Tolerated: The Role of Respect in Outgroup Tolerance
Authors: Simon Bernd , Eschert Silke , Schaefer Christoph Daniel , Reininger Klaus Michael , Zitzmann Steffen , Smith Heather J.
Published: August 2018

We conducted two studies to test the hypothesis that respect for disapproved outgroups increases tolerance toward them. In Study 1, we employed a panel sample of supporters of the Tea Party movement in the United States and found that Tea Party supporters’ respect for homosexuals and Muslims as equal fellow citizens positively predicted Tea Party supporters’ tolerance toward these groups. There was no indication that alternative recognition processes (i.e., achievement recognition or need recognition) played a similar role in the development of tolerance. Study 2 replicated the respect–tolerance link with the experimental method and a more comprehensive measure of tolerance. In particular, it demonstrated that the link also holds with regard to tolerance in the public or political sphere. The wider implications of our research for societal pluralism are discussed.
Intergovernmental Relations and Energy Policy: What We Know and What We Still Need to Learn
Authors: Fowler Luke
Published: August 2018

Although energy has become a key political issue in recent decades, a comprehensive national policy is lacking, and state and local governments are playing increasingly important and diverse roles. This essay reviews what we know about intergovernmental relations in energy policy, including overlaps between national, state, and local authorities; the character of intergovernmental interactions; and interstate variations. In sum, this essay illustrates why intergovernmental issues in energy policies are an interesting and important area of inquiry, reviews current scholarship in key areas, and suggests possible future avenues for research on this topic.
‘Come, now a roundel and a fairy song’: Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the early modern invitation to the dance
Authors: Hiscock Andrew
Published: August 2018

This article considers the status and function of dance in one of Shakespeare’s best-known comedies. Equally importantly, it seeks to embed this playtext within the intense and multifaceted cultural debate surrounding dance and performance in early modern England. Dance is explored in legal, moral, philosophical and spiritual terms in the course of this discussion. In its final stages, this article also considers the appeal for dancing which the comedy has exercised for generations of performers down the centuries.
Economic Impact Analysis on Regional Industries by High-Speed Rail Investments: Application of an Input-Output Model
Authors: Lee Changju , Ma Jiaqi , Oh Kwan Kyo
Published: August 2018

High-speed rail (HSR) systems have advantages over road and air transport, but they require significant financial investment. The economic viability of HSR systems has been analyzed through various methods. The approaches used cannot consider all intangible variables, or cannot satisfy the needs of all stakeholders. Particularly, in situations when policy makers are considering the construction of a new HSR system to stimulate the regional economy, detailed economic effects need to be measured. Hence, this research focuses on: (a) formulating a methodological framework to utilize an input-output (I-O) model in a given region where the regional I-O table is not provided, and (b) quantifying actual economic effects on regional industries by new HSR investment as a case study. Specifically, a four-step process with an I-O model is proposed, and a three-point effect (output, employment, and income) is assessed in Sejong, Republic of Korea. The effects of building a new HSR station in Sejong might generate over $100 million in output, over $21 million in income, and almost 1,000 jobs. Construction of railroad tracks would have more effects on the regional economy with over $1,671 million output, over $37 million income and over 145,000 jobs. In this study, only publicly available data sources are considered to propose the methodology. This approach, therefore, can be repeated for policy analyses in other locations where the data is limited. Further, regardless of the type of transportation investment, this approach can be used by policy makers seeking secure decisions to quantify economic effects on regional industries.
Does Roadway Performance Affect Transit Headway Unreliability? Evidence from Mixed-Traffic Transit Corridors in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Yuen Christopher , Sweet Matthias N.
Published: August 2018

This research assesses the links between roadway performance and transit headway unreliability. Frequent and reliable transit services are valued by transit users and feature as critical components affecting generalized travel costs. But retaining high quality and reliable transit services in mixed-traffic urban contexts is challenging because more and more users are competing for limited physical road space, making an understanding of service unreliability critical for effective transportation system management in growing urban contexts. This study focuses transit headway unreliability on three major downtown Toronto arterial transit corridors—King Street, Queen Street, and Dundas Street. These corridors are primarily served by streetcars but are also occasionally served by buses in cases of diversions or street closures. This research uses Inrix, Inc. probe data to measure traffic congestion and roadway service unreliability and to explore its links with transit headway reliability. Both inferential models and descriptive statistics are presented to identify patterns in transit headway reliability and estimate the strength of association with traffic congestion. Results indicate that roadway performance levels and terminus departure headway unreliability are linked with stop-level transit headway unreliability. Nevertheless, much of the variation in transit headway unreliability remains unexplained by inferential models. Results indicate that insofar as traffic management actions can affect congestion levels, this may improve transit headway reliability. However, one should temper expectations of congestion management affecting mixed-traffic transit services, particularly in a highly urbanized, mixed-traffic environment such as downtown Toronto. Instead, findings suggest meaningful improvements in stop-level headway reliability from better initial scheduling and headways at the beginning of these transit routes.
Utilizing Network and Project-Level Data to Evaluate Impact of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement and Recycled Asphalt Shingles on Laboratory and Field Performance in Texas
Authors: Salaices Berenice , Teutli David , Abdallah Imad , Siddagangaiah Anjan Kumar , Nazarian Soheil
Published: August 2018

The incorporation of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and recycled asphalt shingles (RAS) in asphalt mixes is encouraged as long as the modified mix exhibits equal or improved performance. Through the integration and data mining from several statewide databases, and extensive laboratory and field testing, this paper investigates the performance of asphalt mixes containing RAP, RAS, or both relative to similar mixes with virgin components. The integration of several databases permitted a network-level investigation of performance patterns. The reasonableness of the observed performance patterns was assessed using the results from the Hamburg wheel tracking tests (HWTT) and indirect tensile strength tests performed on specimens from several sites included in a network-level database. Furthermore, the retrieved network-level data were cross-referenced to the results from a historical performance database. At project level, HWTT and the overlay tester tests were performed on samples from several dozen sites to characterize laboratory performance. Field performance of these sites was also documented through periodic cracking and rutting surveys. From the network-level assessment, the impact of RAP, RAS, or both on the performance of the mixes was found to be mix-dependent. The combination of RAP and RAS seems to negatively affect cracking resistance. Further, dense-graded and Superpave mixes with RAP, RAS, or both exhibit higher cracking potential with minimal impact on rutting resistance. The project-level field performance evaluation shows that fatigue cracking propagates at a higher rate for sections with RAP and RAS than for sections with only RAP.
Evidence to Action: Highlights From Transform Nutrition Research (2012-2017)
Authors: Gillespie Stuart , Hoddinott John , Nisbett Nicholas , Arifeen Shams , van den Bold Mara
Published: August 2018

Background:

The Transform Nutrition ( Transform) research consortium (2012-2017), led by the International Food Policy Research Institute, sought to generate evidence to inform and inspire action to address undernutrition in 4 high-burden countries (India, Bangladesh, Kenya, and Ethiopia) and globally.

Objective:

Within the context of the literature, this synthesis article brings together core findings of Transform, highlighting priorities for future research.

Methods:

This article uses a narrative approach to synthesize diverse study findings that collectively address Transform’s three primary research questions: (1) How can nutrition-specific interventions be appropriately designed, implemented, scaled, and sustained in different settings?; (2) How can the nutritional impact of social protection and agriculture be improved?; and (3) How can enabling environments be promoted so as to use existing political and economic resources more effectively?

Results:

Highlights of Transform include (1) improved understanding of the relative effectiveness of different combinations of nutrition-specific interventions and the ways in which they can be scaled for maximal impact; (2) evidence that shows that social protection and agriculture need to be explicitly linked to nutrition in order to contribute to stunting reduction; (3) identification of key components of “enabling environments” for nutrition and how they can be cultivated/sustained; (4) research that examines ways in which leaders emerge and operate to change the political and policy landscape in different settings; and (5) “stories of change” that provide in-depth contextual knowledge of how transformative change has been driven in countries that have made inroads in reducing malnutrition. The conclusion highlights the contributions of the consortium and provides recommendations for future research.
Effectiveness of Community Treatment Order in Patients with a First Episode of Psychosis: A Mirror-Image Study
Authors: Levy Emmanuelle , Mustafa Sally , Naveed Kanza , Joober Ridha
Published: August 2018

Objective:

Poor adherence to antipsychotic medications is strongly associated with psychotic relapses and hospitalizations. This may hinder patients’ ability to function, particularly in a first episode of psychosis (FEP). Poor adherence to treatment may be due to poor insight that can alter the capacity to consent to care, including pharmacotherapy. When patients are judged legally lacking the capacity to consent to care, treatment can be mandated through community treatment orders (CTOs). This naturalistic study examines the effects of CTOs in FEP patients.

Method:

This study examines 38 FEP patients legally deemed unable to consent to care during their follow-up. Using a naturalistic mirror-image approach, we compare clinical (Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms [SAPS], Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms [SANS]), functional (Global Assessment of Functioning Scale [GAF], Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale [SOFAS]), and service use (number of emergency room visits, length of hospitalizations) indicators before and after CTO.

Results:

After the CTO, 37 of 38 patients complied with treatment. Statistically significant improvements in clinical (▵SAPS = –6.3; 95% CI, 4.5 to 8.1 and ▵SANS = –2.2; 95% CI, 0.9 to 3.4, P < 0.01) and functional (▵GAF = +15.0; 95% CI, 8.4 to 21.6, ▵SOFAS = +18.6; 95% CI, 12.8 to 24.4, P < 0.01) outcomes were observed. Significant reduction in emergency room visits ( P = 0.016) and days of hospitalization per month in acute care units ( P < 0.05) were identified with no difference in hospital days per month in short-stay units. Moreover, encounters with case managers ( P = 0.008) and attendance of cognitive therapy sessions ( P = 0.031) were significantly higher. However, patients’ weight significantly increased after CTO (▵weight = +8.0 kg, P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

In FEP patients, CTOs improve compliance to treatment, which contributes to reducing positive and negative symptoms, shortening hospital stays, and improving functioning.
Determinants of Colombian attitudes toward the peace process
Authors: Liendo Nicolás , Braithwaite Jessica Maves
Published: August 2018

A critical element that is often overlooked when studying negotiations in civil wars is popular support for the peace process itself. This is particularly important when agreements are subject to ratification by the broader population, as was the case in the Colombian conflict with the FARC. Using survey data from 2014, we find that attitudes toward this peace process were driven by political preferences more than conflict experiences. Some demographic traits (education, religion, and rural residency) were also important. Notably, these determinants of support for talks with the FARC map closely onto voting patterns in the October 2016 plebiscite.
Augmented Reality-Assisted Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy in Critically Ill Patients With Chronic Respiratory Disease
Authors: Gan Anthony , Cohen Avi , Tan Laren
Published: August 2018

Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed for those who require prolonged mechanical ventilation. It is a procedure that is performed routinely at the bedside in the intensive care unit. Complications nonetheless still occur, and as a result, several technique modifications have been employed. At Loma Linda University Medical Center, we have implemented a novel technique using augmented reality during percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy placement in an attempt to minimize such complications. Using Brother’s AiRScouter WD-200B head mounted display, the tracheostomy operator is able to focus on the surgical field without having to significantly break line of sight to view the traditional bronchoscopy monitor. Six cases have been treated with this procedure to date with good success and excellent user feedback. We aim to assess augmented reality-assisted percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy and determine its overall efficacy when compared to traditional percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy.
Trauma Symptoms and Social Support Mediate the Impact of Violence Exposure on Parenting Competence Among Substance-Dependent Mothers
Authors: Brown Suzanne , Resko Stella , Dayton Carolyn J. , Barron Carla
Published: August 2018

Women with substance use disorders (SUDs) experience high rates of violence exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are associated with parenting anxiety and lower parenting satisfaction among mothers. Although social support may buffer the impact of violence and PTSD on parenting, violence exposure and PTSD may impair mothers’ ability to create, perceive, and utilize social support. We examined the impact of violence exposure, trauma symptoms, and interpersonal support on parenting competence among 291 mothers with substance dependence, using ordinary least squares regression and path analysis. Greater violence exposure and trauma symptoms were associated with lower parenting competence. Greater interpersonal support was associated with greater parenting competence. Trauma symptoms and interpersonal support sequentially mediated the impact of violence exposure on parenting competence, suggesting one pathway through which violence exposure may affect parenting among substance-dependent mothers. Implications for practice include the need to utilize trauma-informed interventions that modify social support.