bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting diabetes-related hospitalizations based on electronic health records
Authors: Brisimi Theodora S , Xu Tingting , Wang Taiyao , Dai Wuyang , Paschalidis Ioannis Ch
Published: November 2018

Objective: To derive a predictive model to identify patients likely to be hospitalized during the following year due to complications attributed to Type II diabetes. Methods: A variety of supervised machine learning classification methods were tested and a new method that discovers hidden patient clusters in the positive class (hospitalized) was developed while, at the same time, sparse linear support vector machine classifiers were derived to separate positive samples from the negative ones (non-hospitalized). The convergence of the new method was established and theoretical guarantees were proved on how the classifiers it produces generalize to a test set not seen during training. Results: The methods were tested on a large set of patients from the Boston Medical Center – the largest safety net hospital in New England. It is found that our new joint clustering/classification method achieves an accuracy of 89% (measured in terms of area under the ROC Curve) and yields informative clusters which can help interpret the classification results, thus increasing the trust of physicians to the algorithmic output and providing some guidance towards preventive measures. While it is possible to increase accuracy to 92% with other methods, this comes with increased computational cost and lack of interpretability. The analysis shows that even a modest probability of preventive actions being effective (more than 19%) suffices to generate significant hospital care savings. Conclusions: Predictive models are proposed that can help avert hospitalizations, improve health outcomes and drastically reduce hospital expenditures. The scope for savings is significant as it has been estimated that in the USA alone, about $5.8 billion are spent each year on diabetes-related hospitalizations that could be prevented.
Effects of micrometre-sized graphite flake to reinforce the performances of poly(lactic acid) thermoplastic biocomposites
Authors: Alam Shamsun , Mina Md Forhad , Rahman Mohammad Jellur , Gafur Md Abdul , Maria Kazi Hanium , Mieno Tetsu , Alam AKM Moshiul , Beg Md Dalour Hossen
Published: November 2018

Biocomposites of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and micrometre-sized graphite (GP) flake powder with 0–30 wt% GP contents have been prepared using extrusion moulding followed by compression moulding. The pure PLA and PLA-GP composites (PGC) have been examined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy (RS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), mechanical and micromechanical testing, differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). FTIR spectra confirm the physical bond formation between GP and PLA. RS distinguishes the D-band spectra of pure PLA and PGC. XRD shows a partially crystalline structure in the PLA. SEM and TEM exhibit a clear dispersion of GP particles in PLA matrix at lower loading and aggregates at higher loading. With an increase of filler content, the tensile and flexural strengths decrease, but the Young’s and tangent moduli are observed to increase by 58% and 77%, respectively. These increments represent an increase in the stiffness of the materials and are found to be consistent with the theoretical values. A decrease in microhardness with increase in filler content is also observed. Both the DTA and TGA reveal an increased thermal stability of the composites.
The confidence delusion: A sociological exploration of participants’ confidence in sport-for-development
Authors: Scott David S
Published: November 2018

Although sport is widely utilised as a tool for personal development, capacity building, and fostering peace, there are still numerous theoretical gaps in our knowledge about how sport influences individuals’ identities, and how this translates into their everyday lives. Within the academic literature there has been seemingly little focus placed upon participants’ emotional and embodied accounts of their sport-for-development (SfD) experiences. This paper uses phenomenologically-inspired theory to explore individuals’ lived experiences of a SfD course, and their descriptions of the social interactions and feelings of confidence they encountered, in order to address this lack of experiential data. An ethnographic methodology was used to collect data through four sports leadership course observations, and cyclical interviews over 4–10 months with eleven course attendees, plus individual interviews with five tutors. Participants’ understandings of their course experiences and the subsequent influence these understandings had on their lives were described through their use of the term confidence. A further phenomenological and sociological interrogation of this term enabled confidence to be seen as being experienced as a ‘frame’ and ‘through the body’ by participants. This study provides original conceptualisations of confidence in relation to participants’ SfD experiences, as well as important discussions regarding the role of emotions and embodiment in understanding the impact of SfD on participants’ everyday lives.
Transgender ward allocation in single-sex mental health wards: contemporary considerations
Authors: Kealy-Bateman Warren , Daws Tessa , Ouliaris Calina
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

Allocation of transgender patients to single-sex mental health wards in Australasia can be a complex and challenging decision in the absence of adequate awareness, education and policy that prioritize consumer safety and preference. It is a point of care that can go wrong for a transgender person. We examine relevant literature, law and existing principles of care and offer an approach.

Conclusion:

Transgender individuals experience an excess health burden and have difficulties that are poorly understood by many health practitioners. This is partly the result of both informational and institutional biases. Relevant legal frameworks, while supportive, are still to be translated into policy. We suggest a framework that canvasses the needs of various stakeholders and considers them equally in the decision-making process.
Psychological distress and health-related quality of life in parents of children referred to an outpatient service for children with developmental disorders
Authors: Karaivazoglou Katerina , Papadaki Ermioni , Iconomou Gregoris , Touliatos Gerasimos , Kotsopoulos Sotirios , Assimakopoulos Konstantinos
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

The current study’s aim was to measure anxiety, depression and quality of life in parents of children referred for developmental evaluation.

Methods:

The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Short Form 36 Health Survey were used to assess anxiety, depression and quality of life, respectively.

Results:

One hundred and thirty parents participated in the study, 95 with a child referred for evaluation and 35 with healthy children. Parents of developmentally impaired children reported increased anxiety ( p=0.002) and depression ( p<0.001) and worse social functioning ( p=0.002) and mental health ( p=0.017). Mothers of developmentally impaired children reported significantly increased anxiety symptoms ( p=0.012) and bodily pain ( p=0.046) and lower levels of vitality ( p=0.009), social functioning ( p=0.005) and mental health ( p=0.008). More children in the family correlated with increased anxiety scores ( p=0.021), while higher child age was associated with more anxiety symptoms ( p=0.002), more role limitations due to emotional problems ( p=0.003) and worse mental health ( p=0.002).

Conclusions:

Parenting children with developmental difficulties is associated with significant psychological distress and disturbed quality of life.
How often does computed tomography (CT) of the brain demonstrate a cause for psychosis? A 7-year retrospective study at a tertiary metropolitan hospital
Authors: Harris Guy , Xiang Hao , Tan Irene , Randhawa Varundeep
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to determine the diagnostic yield of computed tomography (CT) of the brain for the investigation of psychosis.

Methods:

CT brain requests describing psychosis over a 7-year period at a 500-bed major metropolitan hospital were identified retrospectively. Patients were excluded if they were aged greater than 50 years or if the CT request described focal neurological findings on examination, trauma/falls or known brain tumour, demyelinating disorder, encephalopathy, seizure disorder, congenital brain anomaly, stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Results:

A total of 805 patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified, representing the largest published study on this topic. Only 0.4% of patients (3 out of 805) had a potential cause for psychosis demonstrated on CT. None of these patients had their management altered as a result. An additional 0.6% of patients (5 out of 805) had significant pathology that was deemed unrelated to their psychosis.

Conclusions:

The diagnostic value of CT in the setting of psychosis was found to be extremely low in patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Given the risk of ionising radiation and the expenditure of time and cost, more judicious use of CT is suggested.
An Examination of Within- and Between-Family Influences on the Intergenerational Transmission of Violence and Maltreatment
Authors: Valgardson Bradon A. , Schwartz Joseph A.
Published: November 2018

Using a sample of sibling pairs from the National Survey of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), the relationship between child and adolescent maltreatment and intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration was examined within a genetically sensitive framework. After accounting for within-family similarities, maltreatment during childhood did not predict IPV. Maltreatment in adolescence, however, predicted increases in the likelihood of threatening an intimate partner as well as a combined measure of IPV. These results indicate that maltreatment represents only a single facet of the larger suite of family-level influences that contribute to the development of IPV perpetration.
Does Type 1 Diabetic Adolescents’ Fear of Stigmatization Predict a Negative Perception Insulin Treatment?
Authors: Arda Sürücü Hamdiye , Baran Durmaz Gülbeyaz , Turan Engin
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate stigmatization, sociodemographic/diabetes-related characteristics and parents-related characteristics as predictors of a negative perception of insulin treatment in adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Turkey. The study was carried out using a cross-sectional correlation design. The research sample included 80 adolescents with type 1 diabetes who volunteered to take part. A positive perception of insulin treatment (β = −.38, p < .001), stigmatization (β = −.24, p = .013), informing others about one’s type 1 diabetes (β = .24, p = .017) and only using insulin when alone in public places (β = .19, p = .042) were significant predictors of a negative perception of insulin treatment, and these variables explained 35% of the common variance. Diabetes’ nurses should take stigmatization into account during their training and plan appropriate measures. Entrepreneurial, randomized, and controlled studies should be conducted to decrease the negative influence of stigmatization on the perception of insulin treatment in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Employing the Sirolimus-Eluting Poly (Propylene Carbonate) Mesh for the Prevention of Arteriovenous Graft Stenosis in Rats
Authors: Sun Hourong , Liu Chuan-Zhen , Liu Chunxiao , Tang Mengmeng , Cao Guangqing , Zhang Qiuwang , Gu Xinghua
Published: November 2018

Poly (propylene carbonate, PPC) is a new member of the aliphatic polyester family. An outstanding feature of PPC is that it produces mainly water and carbon dioxide when degraded in vivo, causing minimal side effects. This unique property together with excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability makes PPC a promising material for drug delivery. In this study, we explored the effect of the sirolimus (an inhibitor of cell growth)-eluting PPC mesh on graft stenosis and its possible mechanisms in a rat arteriovenous grafting model. The PPC mesh was prepared by electrospinning. A jugular vein to abdominal aortic autograft transplantation model was established in rats. The graft was then treated by wrapping with the drug mesh or the drug-free mesh or left untreated. Four weeks posttransplantation, neointima was measured with hematoxylin and eosin staining, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and MMP-9, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the grafts were assayed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In vitro rat aortic adventitial fibroblast cell (RAAFC) migration was assessed using the Boyden chamber assay, and phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) levels in RAAFCs were determined by Western blotting. Animals with the drug mesh had an intimal area index of 4.87% ± 0.98%, significantly lower than that of the blank group (14.21% ± 2.56%) or the PPC group (15.03% ± 2.35%, both P < .05). The sirolimus mesh markedly suppressed MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression, decreased PCNA-positive cell numbers, inhibited RAAFC migration, and reduced phospho-mTOR levels. Our data suggest that the sirolimus-eluting PPC mesh might be potentially applied for the management of grafting stenosis.
Partisan Information Sources and Affective Polarization: Panel Analysis of the Mediating Role of Anger and Fear
Authors: Lu Yanqin , Lee Jae Kook
Published: November 2018

Drawing on the 2012 American National Election Studies (ANES) panel data, this study explores the influence of the consumption of partisan information sources on affective polarization and investigates the mechanism underlying this relationship. The results show that exposure to pro-party television sources strengthens affective polarization among partisans. The polarizing effects of pro-party sources are mediated by the discrete negative emotions (i.e., anger and fear) toward presidential candidates. The study discusses the impact of selective exposure on deliberative and participatory democracies.
Finding Our Fathers
Authors: Purnell David , Clarke Daniel Wade
Published: November 2018

We never considered how hard it was for our fathers to go to work every day, toiling away at a job they didn’t like. And even worse, seemingly having no other choices because their families were depending on them for their very existence. Growing up, our fathers did not have time for family; spending time with us was something remote from their daily life, making them a stranger in each of their perspective homes. Worse still, We were too young to understand why our fathers were not present. This essay reveals how we have attempted to make sense of the experience this distance between us and our fathers has caused in order to detoxify our individual images of our fathers. Detoxifying the image of father means recognizing that our fathers’ have been wounded as well.
Events That Help and Hinder Family–Teacher Communication Within SWPBIS: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Strickland-Cohen M. Kathleen , Kyzar Kathleen B.
Published: November 2018

To explore family–professional partnership within schoolwide positive behavioral interventions and supports (SWPBIS), we conducted a qualitative analysis of the perceptions of family members of students with Tier 1 and Tier 2 behavior support needs related to events that impact the quality of their communication with teachers. Family member participants were recruited from three elementary schools implementing SWPBIS with fidelity. Family members reported experiences that they perceived as having helped and hindered communication with teachers related to their children’s behavior. Participants also described ideas that they wished to express to teachers related to supporting their children’s appropriate behavior and preventing challenging behavior. Findings were consistent with the family–professional partnership research literature and highlight the importance of the consistent implementation of SWPBIS practices for building and fostering effective family–teacher relationships. Implications for practice, study limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Novel feline viruses: Emerging significance of gammaherpesvirus and morbillivirus infections
Authors: Beatty Julia A , Sharp Claire R , Duprex W Paul , Munday John S
Published: November 2018

Practical relevance:

New technologies capable of sequencing the genetic material in any given biological sample, combined with computer-based algorithms for sequence assembly and analysis, have revolutionised infectious disease research. The rate at which novel viruses are being discovered now exceeds our understanding of their clinical relevance. Novel viruses may contribute to diseases that are major causes of feline morbidity and mortality, including cancer and chronic kidney disease. The identification of new viral pathogens raises the prospect of not only improved patient outcomes through specific treatment but even disease prevention through viral control measures.

Clinical challenges:

It can be difficult to determine the role of a novel virus in disease development. Disease may be an occasional outcome, often years after infection. A high prevalence of infection in the general population can make disease associations harder to identify and almost impossible to rule out. Host cofactors such as immune dysfunction, genetic background or coinfections may be required for manifestation of disease, and one virus species may be linked to a range of pathological sequelae. Establishing causality relies on evaluating accumulating evidence from multiple investigations, which is often hard to access by practitioners.

Global importance:

The worldwide distribution of gammaherpesvirus and morbillivirus infections in domestic cats underlines the potential of these viruses to negatively impact feline health and welfare globally.

Evidence base:

This review relies on grade Ia–III evidence.
The role of pars plana vitrectomy in the management of fungal endogenous endophthalmitis
Authors: Celiker Hande , Kazokoglu Haluk
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

To identify the causative microorganism of fungal endogenous endophthalmitis in our tertiary referral uveitis center and review the therapeutic role of pars plana vitrectomy in patients with fungal endogenous endophthalmitis.

Methods:

Seven eyes of six cases were identified as fungal endogenous endophthalmitis through positive cultures of ocular fluids and clinical presentations. The final anatomical and functional results were evaluated.

Results:

Four women (66.7%) and two men (33.3%) underwent vitrectomy. Control of infection was achieved early on in all cases. Candida (71.4%) and Aspergillus (28.6%) species were identified as causative fungi in patients with fungal endogenous endophthalmitis. Two patients were reoperated due to reinfection and retinal detachment, respectively. Visual acuity improved in six eyes (85.7%) and worsened in one eye (14.3%). At the final examination, the retina was flat in all cases. No eye developed phthisis bulbi.

Conclusion:

Candida species are the most common causative organisms of fungal endogenous endophthalmitis in this study. Pars plana vitrectomy in fungal endogenous endophthalmitis may enhance the treatment of infection by removing fungal elements in the vitreous and aid in diagnosis. Vitrectomy may also be an important tool in the management of vision-threatening post-infectious sequelae such as retinal detachment and reinfections.
Ergonomic practices and musculoskeletal disorders among ophthalmologists in India: An online appraisal
Authors: Kaup Soujanya , Shivalli Siddharudha , Kulkarni Uma , Arunachalam Cynthia
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

Ergonomics in ophthalmology is neither taught during professional training nor does it readily receive consideration or priority in clinical practice. Owing to a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among ophthalmologists, ergonomic awareness, and practices are vital in averting this modern epidemic.

Objective:

To assess the ergonomic practices and prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal disorders among ophthalmologists in India.

Method:

An online survey was conducted among ophthalmologists who were registered with the All India Ophthalmological Society of India using a pre-tested and validated questionnaire.

Results:

The prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal disorder in the 377 participants was 75.3% (284; 95% confidence interval: 70.6–79.5). Low back pain (149, 52.9%) was the most commonly reported symptom. Musculoskeletal disorder–attributed productivity loss was reported by 58.45% (166) of the respondents. Musculoskeletal disorder was most frequently associated with less than 10 years of work experience (odds ratio: 1.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1–1.3, p = 0.01) and lack of good clinic (odds ratio: 1.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.1–2.7, p = 0.03) and operation room ergonomic practices (odds ratio: 1.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.1–2.9, p = 0.03). Only 27.9% (105) of the respondents had accessed information related to ergonomics in ophthalmic practice.

Conclusion:

The self-reported musculoskeletal disorder among ophthalmologists in India is quite high and significant enough to cause some degree of productivity loss. It is thus imperative to emphasize the implementation of good ergonomic practices, especially among relatively young ophthalmologists.
Is a cementless fixation of the femoral component suitable for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing arthroplasty?
Authors: Amstutz Harlan C , Le Duff Michel J
Published: November 2018

Background:

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) typically uses a hybrid design (cemented femoral component and cementless acetabular shell) but has recently been performed with fully cementless components. There is a paucity of information on the clinical performance of these cementless designs.

Methods:

The UCLA clinical scores, SF-12 quality of life scores, complication rates, survivorship and radiographic signs of loosening or gross stress shielding of 39 hips (39 male patients) implanted with cementless HRA were compared with those of 40 hips (37 male patients) implanted with hybrid HRA during the same time frame.

Results:

There were no significant differences in postoperative clinical and quality of life scores, complication rates, or radiographic signs of loosening between the 2 groups. The 5-year Kaplan-Meier survivorship was 97.2% for the cementless group and 100% for the hybrid group. This difference was not significant ( p = 0.3694). There were no femoral component failures in any of the 2 groups.

Conclusions:

At a mean follow-up of 6 years, there is no tangible difference between the performance of cementless HRA compared to hybrid HRA. The absence of learning curve associated with this device and the potential for better preservation of femoral neck bone mineral density suggest that this technology is well suited for young patients with good bone quality seeking to resume an active lifestyle including high-impact activities.
The effect of the colonialist terms “orphan” and “adoption” on the citizenship status of indigenous Fijian adoptees within their own community
Authors: Newman Erica
Published: November 2018

This article investigates the colonialist definitions of the terms “orphan” and “adoption”, contrasting them with how the traditional practice of child circulation in Fiji cared for orphaned children. I examine whether the terms “orphan”, “adoption” or “informal adoption” are equal to (or even appropriate) when describing child circulation practices in Fiji, and whether these terms and practice have had an effect on the status of the child with these labels within their own community.
Copper Uptake by Adesmia atacamensis in a Mine Tailing in an Arid Environment
Authors: Lam Elizabeth J , Keith Brian F , Montofré Ítalo L , Gálvez María E
Published: November 2018

This work evaluates the potential of Adesmia atacamensis, an endemic species from the North of Chile, in phytoremediation processes of copper mining tailings. The selection of this species was based on the fact that its presence was found in 4 copper mining companies that are close to each other, its endemic quality, and its great capacity to adapt to the adverse climatic conditions of the sector of the project, characterized by having a semi-arid climate. In the experiment, the concentrations of 5 metals of environmental connotation for the country’s mining were measured: Cu, Fe, Cd, Pb, and Zn; however, given the small concentrations in Cd, these could not be measured by the team. The applied experimental design quantified the variation of bioconcentration and translocation factors (BCF and TF) for the following treatments: (1) tailing control without amendment (T0), (2) tailing plus 4% CaCO3 + 3% vermicompost (VC), and (3) tailing + 8% CaCO3 + 6% VC. In addition, for treatments T1 and T2 (T0 was not considered as it is the control treatment), the following levels of mycorrhiza were considered: 0, 10, 15, and 20 g m−2. The Baker and Brooks criteria and the BCF were used to evaluate the species as hyperaccumulators. Regarding the first criterion, high concentrations of copper were found in the shoots (shoots) of the specimens, which generally exceeded 1000 mg kg−1, with an average of 1513 mg kg−1, which allowed classifying the species as a copper hyperaccumulator; however, when compared with the BCF criterion, given that all the values were less than 1, they indicated that the species was an excluder of all the evaluated metals. Given the high concentrations of metals in the tailings, in this work, the plant has been considered as a hyperaccumulator of copper. Another indicator was the TF, which, for all experiments, resulted in a value greater than 1 for Fe, Pb, and Zn, which shows that A atacamensis translocates effectively these metals from the roots toward the aerial part and, therefore, presents the potential to accumulate metals in the aerial part. Regarding the treatments carried out, no significant impact was detected.
Opioid-Related Harms: Simplistic Solutions to the Crisis Ineffective and Cause Collateral Damage
Authors: Gallagher Romayne
Published: November 2018

The narrative of the opioid crisis is that ill-informed and careless prescribing by physicians has led to increases in opioid-related harms including overdose deaths. Focusing on reducing the access to prescribed opioids without treating substance use disorder has led to increases in use of heroin and illicitly produced fentanyl. Overall prescribing of opioids has declined causing collateral damage to those who use opioids appropriately to reduce pain and improve function. The complexity of this issue requires a change in focus and broad changes in society’s approach to substance abuse and mental health.
Spinal cord lesions and atrophy in NMOSD with AQP4-IgG and MOG-IgG associated autoimmunity
Authors: Chien Claudia , Scheel Michael , Schmitz-Hübsch Tanja , Borisow Nadja , Ruprecht Klemens , Bellmann-Strobl Judith , Paul Friedemann , Brandt Alexander U
Published: November 2018

Background:

Spinal cord (SC) affection is a hallmark symptom of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). Patients with aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgG+) or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgG+) antibody seropositivity show this overlapping clinical phenotype.

Objective:

Quantitative comparison of SC lesions and atrophy in AQP4-IgG+ and MOG-IgG+ NMOSD.

Methods:

AQP4-IgG+ ( n = 38), MOG-IgG+ ( n = 15) NMOSD patients and healthy controls (HC, n = 24) were analysed for SC lesion (prevalence, length, location), atrophy as mean upper cervical cord area (MUCCA), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), timed 25-foot walk speed (T25FWS) and 9-hole peg test (9HPT) measures.

Results:

In total, 92% (35/38) of AQP4-IgG+ and 53% (8/15) of MOG-IgG+ patients had myelitis attacks (χ2 = 6.47, p = 0.011). 65.8%/26.7% of AQP4-/MOG-IgG+ patients had chronic SC lesions (χ2 = 5.16, p = 0.023), with similar proportions in cervical, upper thoracic and lower thoracic cord, and no length differences. MUCCA was decreased in AQP4-IgG+ ( t = –2.27, p = 0.028), but not MOG-IgG+ patients ( t = 0.58, p = 0.57) compared to HC. MUCCA associated with myelitis attacks (rho = –0.33, p = 0.016), EDSS (rho = –0.31, p = 0.030), pyramidal functional score (rho = –0.42, p = 0.003), T25FWS ( r = 0.43, p = 0.010) and 9HPT Z-score ( r = 0.32, p = 0.037), regardless of antibody status.

Conclusion:

AQP4-IgG+ patients had more myelitis attacks, SC lesions and SC atrophy was more pronounced than in MOG-IgG+ patients. MUCCA is associated with clinical myelitis attacks and disability in all NMOSD patients.
Tourism forecasting: A review of methodological developments over the last decade
Authors: Jiao Eden Xiaoying , Chen Jason Li
Published: November 2018

This study reviewed 72 studies in tourism demand forecasting during the period from 2008 to 2017. Forecasting models are reviewed in three categories: econometric, time series and artificial intelligence (AI) models. Econometric and time series models that have already been widely used before 2007 remained their popularity and were more often used as benchmark models for forecasting performance evaluation and comparison with respect to new models. AI models are rapidly developed in the past decade and hybrid AI models are becoming a new trend. And some new trends with regard to the three categories of models have been identified, including mixed frequency, spatial regression and combination and hybrid models. Different combination components and combination techniques have been discussed. Results in different studies proved superiority of combination forecasts over average single forecasts performance.
Prescribing for the tourism-induced Dutch disease: A DSGE analysis of subsidy policies
Authors: Zhang Hongru , Yang Yang
Published: November 2018

Tourism-induced Dutch disease can be particularly detrimental to small open economies due to deindustrialization and potential long-term welfare loss. This study adopts an innovative macroeconomic modelling tool, dynamic stochastic general equilibrium modelling, to investigate the effects of external inbound tourism booms on the national economic account of a small open economy. The results confirm the existence of Dutch disease, but tourism booms also bring welfare gains to the destination country. We further model the effects of two strategies to mitigate the Dutch disease by assuming that the government can tax the tourism sector and subsidize the manufacturing sector in two ways: production subsidies and investment subsidies. The results show that the effectiveness of production subsidies is very modest, while investment subsidies can almost completely overturn the Dutch disease. In terms of welfare, investment subsidies lower welfare gains in the very short term, but the positive effects persist over the longer term, which is different from the production subsidy case. Last, practical implications are provided.
Haptic ambience: Ambient play, the haptic effect and co-presence in Pokémon GO
Authors: Apperley Thomas , Moore Kyle
Published: November 2018

Haptic media studies emphasize the centrality of touch in the experience of digital media. This article considers how the haptic effect created by relationship between touch, gesture and spatial practice in Pokémon GO cements new possibilities for ambient play and co-presence. The app effectively draws on the genealogies of Nintendo’s handheld Pokémon games, but through the shift to smartphone devices the app creates new forms of ambient play, co-presence and communication that are realized through the publicness of the touch, gesture and comportment which make up the haptic effect of the app. By making the smartphones camera an integral part the game, Pokémon GO suggests the wider relevance of the communicability of feeling and gesture by extending ambient play and co-presence into social media, allowing players to (re)-experience the feeling and touch of Pokémon GO through affective resonance. This suggests that the tactility and touch of the haptic affect are embedded in a matrix of embodied experiences that are revealed through how photography and social media become sites for extending and ambient play.
“The edTPA took away from my student teaching experience”: The impact of the edTPA on student teaching experiences
Authors: Shin Minsun
Published: November 2018

This colloquium brings forward the “inside” voices of early childhood student teachers in order to critically examine the impact of the edTPA (Educative Teacher Performance Assessment) on student teaching experiences, especially the “educative” function that the edTPA claims.
Assessing local socioeconomic desegregation: The effects of successive decrees regulating school choice in the Belgian French-speaking community
Authors: Danhier Julien , Friant Nathanaël
Published: November 2018

Assuming that free school choice is one of the parameters contributing to segregation in the Belgian educational system, the government implemented decrees to alter school enrolment policies in order to regulate school choice. In this study, two statistical approaches (a ‘Lorenz’ index and a multilevel one) have been used to measure the evolution of segregation from 2006 to 2015 exploiting two databases (administrative student count and the Programme for International Student Assessment). The results do not provide any support to the claim that there has been a reduction in school segregation, and they stress that the decrees are inefficient concerning this objective.
Voces de Resistencia: Exploring Salvadoran Students’ Experiences and Needs in Higher Education
Authors: Linares Janette , Maffini Cara S.
Published: November 2018

This study aims to examine how historical and contemporary traumas, refugee experiences, and cultural adjustment affect first-generation Salvadoran students’ identities and experiences in higher education. Thirteen Salvadoran college students completed a demographic survey and a semistructured interview. Using grounded theory methodology, three selective, 11 axials, and 36 open themes were identified. Respondents reflected on the impact of trauma. They also discussed challenges of being first generation and navigating through higher education, though reportedly conceptualizing these as symbols of hope and opportunity for their own growth. Findings demonstrate ways institutions of higher education can better support Salvadoran students.
Systematic Review of Physical Activity Interventions in Hispanic Adults
Authors: Loya Julio C.
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

Physical activity (PA) has demonstrated substantial physical and psychological benefits. However, Hispanics engage in less leisure-time PA when compared with other groups, putting them at higher risk for diseases associated with obesity, such as diabetes mellitus type 2. This literature review was conducted to identify best practices with regard to interventions designed to increase PA among Hispanic adults.

Methods:

Extensive searching located 21 randomized controlled studies conducted in the United States.

Results:

Common conceptual frameworks were the transtheoretical model and social cognitive theory. Most interventions used educational sessions with a variety of topics and many used promotoras to increase PA. Outcomes were predominantly examined using self-report PA measures. Walking was the most commonly reported PA behavior. Studies with significant results were those that measured moderate-to-vigorous PA and used theory to guide interventions. Male and older participants were underrepresented.

Conclusions:

Effective culturally appropriate PA interventions for Hispanics adults are needed. Particular attention to intervention tailoring based on country of origin could enhance intervention effectiveness.
Investigating Capnography Innovation for Better Patient Monitoring in the Resource Limited Surgical Setting
Authors: Nourian Maziar M. , Kolbay Patrick , Hoehne Soeren , Poursaid Ahrash E. , Rowley Ann E. , Harris Mark J. , Kuck Kai
Published: November 2018

Background. Access to basic anesthetic monitoring in the developing world is lacking, which contributes to the 100 times greater anesthesia-related mortality in low- and middle-income countries. We hypothesize that an environmental sensor with a lower sampling rate could provide some clinical utility by providing CO2 levels, respiratory rate, and support in detection of clinical abnormalities. Materials and Methods. A bench-top lung simulation was created to replicate CO2 waveforms, and an environmental sensor was compared with industry-available technology. Sensor response time and respiratory rates were compared between devices. Additionally, an in silico model was created to replicate capnography pathology as waveforms would appear using the environmental sensor. Results and Conclusion. Breath simulations using the bench-top lung simulation produced similar results to industry standards with a degree of variability. Respiratory rates did not differ between the environmental sensor and all other devices tested. Finally, pathological waveforms created in silico carried a certain level of detail regarding ventilatory pathology, which could provide some clinical insight to an anesthesiologist. We believe our prototype is the first step toward making low-cost and portable capnography available in the resource-limited setting, and future efforts should focus on bridging the gap to safer anesthesia and surgery globally.
The Effect of Lower Body Positive Pressure on Left Ventricular Ejection Duration in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Avadhani Sriya , Ihsan Muhammad , Nunez Arismendy , Kamran Haroon , Singh Sahib , Hasan Zohair , Salciccioli Louis , Kral John G. , Godwin Ellen M. , Lazar Jason
Published: November 2018

Lower body positive pressure (LBPP) treadmill activity might benefit patients with heart failure (HF). To determine the short-term effects of LBPP on left ventricular (LV) function in HF patients, LV ejection duration (ED), a measure of systolic function was prospectively assessed in 30 men with stable HF with LV ejection fraction ≤ 40% and 50 healthy men (N). Baseline measurements (100% body weight), including blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and LVED, obtained via radial artery applanation tonometry, were recorded after 2 minutes of standing on weight support treadmill and after LBPP achieving reductions of 25%, 50%, and 75% of body weight in random sequence. Baseline, HR, and LVED (251 ± 5 vs 264 ± 4 ms; P = .035) were lower in the HF group. The LBPP lowered HR more (14% vs 6%, P = .009) and increased LVED more (15% ± 7% vs 10% ± 6%; P = .004) in N versus HF. Neither group had changes (Δ) in BP. On generalized linear regression, the 2 groups showed different responses ( P < .001). Multivariate analysis showed %ΔHR ( P < .001) and HF ( P = .026) were predictive of ΔED ( r2 = 0.44; P < .001). In conclusion, progressive LBPP increases LVED in a step-wise manner in N and HF patients independent of HR lowering. The ΔLVED is less marked in patients with HF.
Developing Adaptive Learning Environments to Support Long-Term Health Promotion
Authors: Lopez Tabbetha , Arlinghaus Katherine R. , Johnston Craig A.
Published: November 2018

Health promotion strategies typically include changing the environment, providing supervision to decrease the likelihood an unhealthy behavior will occur, and increasing skills to make decisions supporting health in environments in which such choices are challenging to make. The first two strategies are important in improving the environment to promote healthy decision making. However, the creation of restrictive environments has repeatedly shown to not support disease prevention in the long term. Restrictive environments do not support the development of skills to make healthy choices when restrictions are not in place. This is particularly true for children who are learning to navigate their environment and make health decisions. The creation of adaptive learning environments should be prioritized to help individuals develop the skills needed for long-term health promotion.
Effectiveness of formal physical therapy following total shoulder arthroplasty: A systematic review
Authors: Edwards Peter K , Ebert Jay R , Littlewood Chris , Ackland Tim , Wang Allan
Published: November 2018

Background

Physical therapy is considered routine practice following total shoulder arthroplasty. To date, current regimens are based on clinical opinion, with evidence-based recommendations. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of total shoulder arthroplasty physical therapy programmes with a view to inform current clinical practice, as well as to develop a platform upon which future research might be conducted.

Methods

An electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane Library to March 2018 was complemented by hand and citation-searching. Studies were selected in relation to pre-defined criteria. A narrative synthesis was undertaken.

Results

A total of 506 papers were identified in the electronic database search, with only one study showing moderate evidence of early physical therapy promoting a more rapid return of short-term improvement in function and pain. No studies evaluated the effectiveness of physical therapy programmes in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty procedures.

Discussion

Restoring range of motion and strength following total shoulder arthroplasty is considered important for patients to obtain a good outcome post-surgery and, when applied early, may offer more rapid recovery. Given the rising incidence of total shoulder arthroplasties, especially reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, there is an urgent need for high-quality, adequately powered randomised controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes following these surgeries.
Canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation in soft-tissue sarcomas: A comparative study of synovial sarcoma and leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Briski Laurence M , Thomas Dafydd G , Patel Rajiv M , Lawlor Elizabeth R , Chugh Rashmi , McHugh Jonathan B , Lucas David R
Published: November 2018

Background:

Previous studies have shown that aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is associated with many malignant neoplasms. This includes some soft-tissue sarcoma phenotypes, most notably synovial sarcoma, implicating potential targets for novel molecular therapies.

Objective:

We investigate the level of Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation present in leiomyosarcomas relative to synovial sarcomas, using expression of LEF1 and β-catenin as surrogates.

Methods:

Cancer outlier profile analysis was performed on messenger RNA expression datasets in Oncomine (70 synovial sarcomas, 178 leiomyosarcomas). Results for LEF1 and β-catenin messenger RNA expression were reported in terms of median-centered intensity. Separate immunohistochemical studies were performed on tissue microarrays created from 77 synovial sarcomas and 89 leiomyosarcomas using antibodies to LEF1 and β-catenin. Tumors with unequivocal strong nuclear staining involving ⩾5% of cells were interpreted as positive.

Results:

Cancer outlier profile analysis demonstrated a higher level of LEF1 messenger RNA expression in synovial sarcomas than in leiomyosarcomas ( p < 0.0001), but showed no significant difference in β-catenin messenger RNA expression ( p = 0.868). Immunohistochemistry showed most synovial sarcomas had strong nuclear expression of LEF1 (79%) and β-catenin (84%), while a small minority of leiomyosarcomas had strong nuclear expression of LEF1 (5%) and β-catenin (6%).

Conclusion:

These results provide further evidence that aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is present in most synovial sarcomas, but not in most leiomyosarcomas. While targeting the constituents of this pathway might be effective in the treatment of synovial sarcomas, it is not likely to be an effective strategy in the treatment of leiomyosarcomas.
Prevalence of kidney stones in the USA: The National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey
Authors: Chen Zhaoyi , Prosperi Mattia , Bird Victoria Y.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has demonstrated an upward trend in prevalence of kidney stones (KSs) in the past 30 years. We aim to report the current prevalence of KSs.

Methods:

Research was based upon a cross-sectional analysis of response to the 2007–2014 NHANES. The prevalence of self-reported KS history was calculated using weights and design factors reported by NHANES. Four cycles of NHANES data were analyzed separately (2007–2014), and KS-prevalence trends in adult individuals for different age groups were compared. Analysis was performed using SAS ver.9.4.

Results:

The prevalence of KSs was 10.1% for the last 2013–2014 NHANES cycle. The highest prevalence of KSs was observed in males older than 60 years, at 17.8%, followed by males 40–59 years old at 12.6%. This trend changes in the 20–39-year-old age group, wherein females had a higher prevalence than males—7.5% for females compared to 4.5% in males. Females in the study showed a steady increase in KSs prevalence through the study cycles: 6.6% in 2007 to 9.5% in 2013 ( p < 0.05). The increase in females ages 20 to 39, almost doubled in prevalence: 3.9 to 7.5%, from 2007 to 2013 ( p < 0.05). Females older than 60 years of age have remained stable, with prevalence of 8.9% in 2007 to 9.8% in 2013. Males showed a slight decrease in prevalence from 2007 to 2014, from 12.7% in 2007 to 11.4% in 2014. Prevalence in males and females older than 60 years old were relatively stable.

Conclusions:

Prevalence of KSs has remained stable in males and has increased in females. Females of child-bearing age showed the most significant increase. For this specific group, there has been a steady increase in the last seven years.

Level of evidence:

IV
Judicial Fallibility, Inverted Learning and the Indispensability of Reason: Piloting ‘Advanced Legal Reasoning’ in Ireland
Authors: Cahill Maria
Published: November 2018

In many law schools around the world, the Socratic method is a cultural anathema and the Oxbridge tutorial system a financial impracticability: how then can these law schools, which adhere to the traditional lecture format nonetheless promote the dedicated teaching of legal reasoning? Seven years ago, a specific module dedicated to the development of these skills, Advanced Legal Reasoning, was offered for the first time as an optional final-year module at University College Cork in Ireland. This course probes the requirements of legal reasoning in the context of particular cases, and it proposes a modified version of the ‘flipped classroom’ phenomenon, an approach called Inverted Learning, to do so. This article proposes four principles of Inverted Learning, which are (a) first exposure responsibility, (b) support for experimentation, (c) expectation of mastery and (d) humanization of the classroom. They inculcate the virtues of intellectual autonomy, intellectual courage, intellectual humility and intellectual charity, respectively. Each of these principles was put into practice in very concrete ways through the delivery of the Advanced Legal Reasoning module in order to develop the capacity of the students to reason effectively and to appreciate the indispensability of reason within the legal system.