bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiclass Classification and Feature Selection Based on Least Squares Regression with Large Margin
Authors: Zhao Haifeng , Wang Siqi , Wang Zheng
Published: July 2018

Least squares regression (LSR) is a fundamental statistical analysis technique that has been widely applied to feature learning. However, limited by its simplicity, the local structure of data is easy to neglect, and many methods have considered using orthogonal constraint for preserving more local information. Another major drawback of LSR is that the loss function between soft regression results and hard target values cannot precisely reflect the classification ability; thus, the idea of the large margin constraint is put forward. As a consequence, we pay attention to the concepts of large margin and orthogonal constraint to propose a novel algorithm, orthogonal least squares regression with large margin (OLSLM), for multiclass classification in this letter. The core task of this algorithm is to learn regression targets from data and an orthogonal transformation matrix simultaneously such that the proposed model not only ensures every data point can be correctly classified with a large margin than conventional least squares regression, but also can preserve more local data structure information in the subspace. Our efficient optimization method for solving the large margin constraint and orthogonal constraint iteratively proved to be convergent in both theory and practice. We also apply the large margin constraint in the process of generating a sparse learning model for feature selection via joint [Formula: see text]-norm minimization on both loss function and regularization terms. Experimental results validate that our method performs better than state-of-the-art methods on various real-world data sets.
One new Gomphonema Ehrenberg (Bacillariophyta) species from a high mountain lake in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: LIAO MENG-NA , LI YAN-LING
Published: July 2018

This paper describes one new Gomphonema species from Yunnan Province, China, including valve morphology based on light and scanning electron microscopy. The species, Gomphonema bigutianchnensis sp. nov., is similar to many species of the genus in the organization and structure of the areolae, raphe, stigma and apical pore fields. It differs from known species in the shape of the valve and in length/breadth measurements. This species is distinguished by the broadest portion being positioned towards the wedge-shaped and rounded headpole. We compared these species to those of similar shape and morphology, and provide information about its ecology.
New combinations in Stenostelma (Apocynaceae—Asclepiadoideae) and two novel species from South Africa
Authors: BESTER STOFFEL P. , NICHOLAS ASHLEY
Published: July 2018

Two new combinations are made for taxa that were previously attributed to the genus Schizoglossum and are now placed in the genus Stenostelma. Included is the typification of Stenostelma capense, S. carinatum, S. corniculatum, S. eustegioides and S. periglossoides. Two new species, Stenostelma ligulatum and S. urceolatum, both with restricted distributions, are described here. Preliminary conservation assessments (Red List status) for the newly described taxa are provided.
Orobanche arpica (Orobanchaceae): a new species from the Caucasus, and contributional notes on O. ser. Krylowianae
Authors: PIWOWARCZYK RENATA , PEDRAJA ÓSCAR SÁNCHEZ , MORAL GONZALO MORENO , GÓRALSKI GRZEGORZ , KWOLEK DAGMARA , DENYSENKO-BENNETT MAGDALENA , PAWEŁEK BARBARA
Published: July 2018

Orobanche arpica (Orobanchaceae) is described as a new, probably Caucasian endemic, species from the Lesser Caucasus in Armenia. It grows on a subalpine meadow, where it parasitises Psephellus pulcherrimus (Asteraceae). The newly-described species morphologically and phylogenetically belongs to species from the Orobanche subsect. Curvatae, apparently to species of the O. ser. Krylowianae, however it is clearly distinct. A detailed description, illustrations, a comparison with the similar species with identification key, and phylogenetic analysis are provided. We also present additional phylogenetic (O. inulae) and phytogeographic (O. mlokosiewiczii) contributions to the series Krylowianae.
Definition of the Lonchaea polyhamata species-group (Diptera, Lonchaeidae) with a description of new species
Authors: MACGOWAN IAIN
Published: July 2018

The Lonchaea polyhamata McAlpine, 1964 species-group is defined and five new species within it are described from the Afrotropical region namely, L. dama MacGowan sp. nov., L. mbeya MacGowan sp. nov., L. njombe MacGowan sp. nov., L. taita MacGowan sp. nov. and L. zomba MacGowan sp. nov. With the inclusion of the previously described L. polyhamata McAlpine, 1964 and L. teratosa McAlpine, 1964 the species group now comprises seven species, all from the Afrotropics.Afrotropical Lonchaea species which share character of 2 katepisternal setae with the L. polyhamata species group are also assessed. These include three new species namely L. aberdare MacGowan sp. nov., L. klynebergi MacGowan sp. nov. and L. muhavura MacGowan sp. nov. The male terminalia of the previously described L. dichaeta McAlpine, 1964 which also belongs to this wider group are illustrated for the first time.The male genitalia of all species are illustrated and a key to males of Afrotropical Lonchaea with two katepisternal setae is provided.
Studies on the genus Aeolothrips (Thysanoptera: Aeolothripidae) in Iran, with a key to species
Authors: ALAVI JALIL , MINAEI KAMBIZ
Published: July 2018

An illustrated key is provided to 27 species of Aeolothrips Haliday recorded from Iran, including two new species: A. persiae sp. n. from Chenopodium album [Chenopodiaceae] and A. tatari sp. n. from Sinapis arvensis [Brassicaceae]. Variation among populations of A. tenuicornis from Iran, Europe and Mediterranean area is discussed. A. neyrizi is synonymized with A. flaviventer. An update checklist of Iranian Aeolothrips is provided.
Usefulness of the United States National Weather Service Radar Display as Rated by Website Users
Authors: Saunders Michelle E. , Ash Kevin D. , Collins Jennifer M.
Published: July 2018

Weather radar is now widely viewed by the general public in the United States via television, computers/tablets, and smartphones. Anyone can consult near-real-time maps and animations of weather radar data when weather conditions are a factor. However, the usefulness of weather radar data for each user depends on a complex interaction of factors. There have been few studies providing conceptual arguments and empirical data to better understand what the most important factors are and to comprehend patterns of public weather radar use across the United States. The first part of this research provides a basic conceptual framework for research investigating the usefulness of weather radar displays as a source of weather information and as a decision aid. The second part aims to uncover several factors that influence the perceived usefulness rating of the National Weather Service (NWS) website’s weather radar display at both national and regional levels using variables gathered from the 2014 NWS customer satisfaction survey alongside relevant geographic and climatological variables. Data analyses include spatial clustering and ordinal regression utilized within a generalized linear model methodology. Overall, respondents who are more familiar with the NWS and their products, as well as those who indicate they are more likely to take action based on information provided by the NWS, are more likely to find the NWS radar display useful. Geographically, the NWS radar display is most useful to persons residing in the southern United States. Lightning is the most important hazard associated with higher radar usefulness ratings.
Intervention Instruction in Argumentative Writing
Authors: Stasaitis Maria Pesce
Published: July 2018

To investigate instructional planning strategies that impact student improvement in argumentative writing, the teacher-researcher implemented an Integrated Writing intervention in a seventh-grade urban school classroom to impact student writing, student feedback, and teacher reflection. Utilizing a mixed-methods Action Research study, the teacher-researcher collected qualitative and quantitative data during two 4-week instructional units utilizing a blogging site. Two iterations of data were analyzed for the inclusion of cognitive complexity. This study showed the effectiveness of using the Integrated Writing intervention in promoting students’ ability to write effective cognitively complex arguments.
Antecedents and Outcomes of Objective Versus Subjective Career Success: Competing Perspectives and Future Directions
Authors: Spurk Daniel , Hirschi Andreas , Dries Nicky
Published: July 2018

This review examines competing perspectives relating to (a) the range and prevalence of different theoretical approaches to the study of career success and (b) the need for a theoretically differentiated understanding of the antecedents of objective career success (OCS) versus subjective career success (SCS). Furthermore, the review complements the assumption that OCS and SCS are only ultimate outcomes of careers, proposing instead that career success also acts as an antecedent to other career and life outcomes. Against the backdrop of an organizing resource management framework, we present and critically evaluate the results of a systematic analysis of the theoretical approaches used to empirically study the antecedents of OCS and SCS. Furthermore, we develop a taxonomy of outcomes of career success. Our review findings show a theoretical heterogeneity with some dominant theoretical approaches within research of antecedents of career success. Moreover, past research started to adopt different theoretical approaches when predicting OCS (e.g., approaches focusing on personal resources, such as human capital or [competitive] performance) versus SCS (e.g., approaches focusing on personal key resources, such as stable traits). Several types of career success outcomes were identified: withdrawal, career attitudes, health and well-being, reactions from the (work) environment, and self-concept. On the basis of these findings, we provide recommendations for how future research can make sense of the theoretical heterogeneity in career success research, how research on antecedents and outcomes can better account for the OCS/SCS distinction, and how future research can more rigorously integrate research on antecedents and outcomes of career success.
Tachyphylaxis and Dependence in Pharmacotherapy for Unexplained Chronic Cough
Authors: Bowen Andrew J. , Huang Tiffany L. , Nowacki Amy S. , Trask Douglas , Kaltenbach James , Taliercio Rachel , Benninger Michael S. , Milstein Claudio F. , Bryson Paul C.
Published: July 2018

Objective

Unexplained chronic cough (UCC) is a perplexing condition treated with neuromodulators. Although previous literature describes the effectiveness of neuromodulators, there is little on the development of tachyphylaxis or dependence to neuromodulators over time. Our objective is to capture the experience of a large cohort of patients with UCC over an extended period, looking for these 2 phenomena.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with UCC from 2010 to 2014. Patient outcomes were measured through percentage improvement scores. Treatment failures were attributed to no benefit, intolerable side effects, or tachyphylaxis. Tachyphylaxis was defined as the need for higher doses of medication following diminishing therapeutic benefit, while dependence was defined as a failure to stop therapy following attempted de‐escalation or resurgence following drug cessation.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients were included in the study. Tachyphylaxis was observed among 35% of patients while dependence was observed among 27% of successfully treated patients, together effecting >50% of the cohort. Sixty‐eight percent of patients ultimately experienced successful treatment with neuromodulators, demonstrating strikingly distinct responses to different neuromodulator drug classes.

Conclusion

Tachyphylaxis and dependence occur frequently during UCC treatment and have a major impact on treatment outcomes. Patients sometimes demonstrate distinct responses to different neuromodulator classes. The majority of patients will experience successful treatment for their cough, although several trials may be required.
Impact of ex-vivo extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuitry on daptomycin
Authors: Cies Jeffrey J. , Moore Wayne S. , Giliam Nadji , Low Tracy , Enache Adela , Chopra Arun
Published: July 2018

Background:

The objective was to determine the alterations of daptomycin (DAP) in a contemporary neonatal/pediatric (1/4-inch) and adolescent/adult (3/8-inch) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuit including the Quadrox-i® oxygenator.

Methods:

Quarter-inch and 3/8-inch, simulated, closed-loop, ECMO circuits were prepared with a Quadrox-i pediatric and Quadrox-i adult oxygenator and blood primed. A one-time dose of DAP was administered into the circuit and serial pre- and post-oxygenator concentrations were obtained at 0-5 minutes and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 24-hour time points. DAP was also maintained in a glass vial and samples were taken from the vial at the same time periods for control purposes to assess for spontaneous drug degradation

Results:

For both the 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch circuits, there was no significant DAP loss at 24 hours. Additionally, the reference DAP concentrations remained relatively constant during the entire 24-hour study period.

Conclusion:

This ex-vivo investigation demonstrated no significant DAP loss within an ECMO circuit with both sizes of the Quadrox-i oxygenator at 24 hours. Therapeutic concentrations of DAP in the setting of ECMO may be anticipated with current recommended doses, depending on the amount of extracorporeal volume needed for circuit maintenance in comparison to the patient’s apparent volume of distribution. Additional studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these findings.
Experimental investigations of the aerated polymethylmethacrylate-based vertebral cement flow in capillaries
Authors: Tyfa Zbigniew , Witkowski Dariusz , Sobczak Krzysztof , Obidowski Damian , Jóźwik Krzysztof
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

A constant growth in the population suffering from osteoporotic vertebral weakening is observed. As a result, vertebroplasty procedures become more and more common. Unfortunately, they may be associated with several complications occurring during bone cement injection, including its leakage or overheating of tissues. Despite several experimental studies, there is a lack of data related to random aeration of the bone cement. Therefore, the main objective of the following investigations was to emphasize that random aeration of the bone cement, and, consequently, a compressibility factor, could not be treated as a negligible factor during the vertebroplasty procedure and had to be taken into account in the development of the mathematical model.

Materials and methods:

A special test rig to reproduce the vertebroplasty procedure was designed and built. The authors conducted numerous experiments on polymethylmethacrylate-based bone cement flows, analyzing different flow conditions, such as volume flow rate and flow channel diameter. Time periods of the flow front between characteristic sections and pressures (differential and gauge) were measured.

Results:

All investigations revealed that bone cements mixed in special mixing kits were characterized by a random level of aeration which led to varied flow parameters. Comparing the experimental results with the theoretical values of the continuity equation, the highest difference in the flow duration reached 140%.

Discussion:

It has been proven that the aeration of the bone cement alters the flow dynamics. Therefore, much more data are required for statistical analysis to validate a mathematical model of the bone cement flow.
Interlaminar fracture toughness and electromagnetic interference shielding of hybrid-stitched carbon fiber composites
Authors: Abdelal Nisrin R , Donaldson Steven L
Published: July 2018

In the current study, the production of multifunctional hybrid-stitched composites with improved interlaminar fracture toughness and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness is reported. Unidirectional carbon fiber-epoxy composite laminates stitched with Kevlar, nylon, hybrid stitched with both Kevlar and nylon and unstitched were prepared using resin infusion process. Representative specimens from unstitched and stitched composites were tested using rectangular waveguide and Mode I double cantilever beam tests. The Mode I experimental results showed that composite stitched with Kevlar exhibited the highest crack initiation interlaminar fracture toughness (GIC-initiation), whereas composite stitched with nylon exhibited the highest maximum crack propagation interlaminar fracture toughness (GIC-maximum). The four-hybrid stitching patterns exhibited higher GIC-initiation than the unstitched and stitched with nylon composites and lower than stitched with Kevlar composite, whereas they had higher GIC-maximum than the unstitched and stitched with Kevlar composites, although lower than stitched with nylon composite. The electromagnetic shielding effectiveness experimental results showed that stitched composites exhibited improved shielding effectiveness compared to unstitched composites. For example, composite stitched with nylon had highest shielding effectiveness value of 52.17 dB compared by the composite stitched with Kevlar which had 40.6 dB. The four hybrid-stitched composites exhibited similar shielding effectiveness with an average value of 32.75 dB compared to the unstitched composite shielding effectiveness of 22.84 dB. The experimental results comply with the initial goal of this study to manufacture multifunctional hybrid stitching composites with combined properties between Kevlar and nylon-stitched composites.
Articulating Problems and Markets: A Translation Analysis of Entrepreneurs’ Emergent Value Propositions
Authors: Spinuzzi Clay , Altounian David , Pogue Gregory , Cochran Robert , Zhu Lily
Published: July 2018

In this qualitative study, the authors apply Callon’s sociology of translation to examine how new technology entrepreneurs enact material arguments that involve the first two moments of translation—problematization (defining a market problem) and interessement (defining a market and the firm’s relationship to it)—which in turn are represented in a claim, the value proposition. That emergent claim can then be represented and further changed during pitches. If accepted, it can then lead to the second two moments of translation: enrollment and mobilization. Drawing on written materials, observations, and interviews, we trace how these value propositions were iterated along three paths to better problematize and interesse, articulating a problem and market on which a business could plausibly be built. We conclude by discussing implications for understanding value propositions in entrepreneurship and, more broadly, using the sociology of translation to analyze emergent, material, consequential arguments.
Prevalence and Correlates of Criminal Behavior Among the Non-institutionalized Elderly: Results From the National Survey on Drug Use and Health
Authors: Ghossoub Elias , Khoury Rita
Published: July 2018

Objectives:

First to explore the prevalence of criminal behavior committed by the non-institutionalized geriatric American population. Second to determine the correlates of criminal behavior among this population.

Methods:

We used data of the non-institutionalized adults aged ≥65 years in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 2008 through 2014. We compared socio-demographic and mental health profiles of arrestees to non-arrestees and lawbreakers to non-lawbreakers and then determined the correlates of being arrested and breaking the law through regression analyses.

Results:

Around 0.4% of the population reported being arrested, and 5% reported breaking the law in the past year. The most prevalent offense was driving while intoxicated. Arrestees were significantly more likely to be male and to have had an alcohol or a drug(s) use disorder in the past year. Lawbreakers had a significant likelihood of being male, having a high educational level, and having an alcohol or a drug(s) use disorder in the past year.

Conclusions:

Elderly lawbreakers seem to have distinct characteristics that not just separate them from non-offenders but also probably from younger lawbreakers.
Assisted Community Housing Initiative in Dhaka
Authors: Begum Halima , Heywood Philip Richard , Susilawati Connie
Published: July 2018

This research highlights how the strength of a group of mobilized slum dwellers was harnessed to bring in change in their housing condition. The community, with active support from a non-government organization, was able to develop housing for themselves. The article demonstrates that assisted community housing as an approach is capable of offering a sustainable housing development solution in a resource-constrained country like Bangladesh. The article aims at examining the context and the process, and identifying the operational barriers, and it explores future prospect of this approach in a specific context. Through elaborating on the community efforts, the article sheds lights on the difficulties that were encountered by the NGO and the community, making this a shared struggling experience. It identifies that with a few policy-level interventions and changes in operational practices of different government agencies, a supportive environment can be created which will foster NGO’s stewardship to making this approach produce more equitable, efficient, affordable and, above all, sustainable housing development for the urban poor.
A Grant Framework as a Push Incentive to Stimulate Research and Development of New Antibiotics
Authors: Savic Miloje , Årdal Christine
Published: July 2018

Antibiotic research and development (R&D) has failed to produce innovative antibiotics in the past two decades, which is due to both scientific and economic factors. We reviewed national and international funding agencies and critically assessed current grant funding mechanisms. Finally, we propose four complementary grant-funding incentives aimed to help developers along the R&D pipeline. Equally important objective of these incentives is to address some of the known R&D risks and bottlenecks.
Designing a Delinked Incentive for Critical Antibiotics: Lessons from Norway
Authors: Årdal Christine , Johnsen Jostein , Johansen Karianne
Published: July 2018

No country has yet implemented a pilot to ensure access to or the innovation of new antibiotics for multi-drug infections. A team from national health agencies in Norway, with the support of the Innovative Medicine Initiative-funded project DRIVE-AB, designed a model suitable for the national context, including the selection of the antibiotics, the potential value, and the operational model.
Implementation of a Market Entry Reward within the United States
Authors: Daniel Gregory W. , Schneider Monika , Lopez Marianne Hamilton , McClellan Mark B.
Published: July 2018

As part of a multifactorial approach to address weak incentives for innovative antimicrobial drug development, market entry rewards (MERs) are an emerging solution. Recently, the Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy released the Priority Antimicrobial Value and Entry (PAVE) Award proposal, which combines a MER with payment reforms, transitioning from volume-based to “value-based” payments for antimicrobials. Here, the PAVE Award and similar MERs are reviewed, focusing on further refinement and avenues for implementation.
Physician Autonomy and the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Guevremont Nathan , Barnes Mark , Haupt Claudia E.
Published: July 2018

The scope and severity of the opioid epidemic in the United States has prompted significant legislative intrusion into the patient-physician relationship. These proscriptive regulatory regimes mirror earlier legislation in other politically-charged domains like abortion and gun regulation. We draw on lessons from those contexts to argue that states should consider integrating their responses to the epidemic with existing medical regulatory structures, making physicians partners rather than adversaries in addressing this public health crisis.
Treatment Innovation in Orthopedic Surgery: A Case Study from Hospital for Special Surgery
Authors: Waldman Seth A. , Schottenfeld Joseph R. , Gluck Abbe R.
Published: July 2018

Excessive prescribing of pain medications after surgery has contributed to the epidemic of opioid misuse and diversion in the United States. Pain specialists may be particularly well situated to address these issues. We describe an attempt to reverse the trend at an orthopedic surgical hospital by implementing a peri-operative assessment and treatment service which minimizes preoperative opioid use, when necessary implements addiction treatment, and encourages early tapering from opioids.
Debating Medical Utility, Not Futility: Ethical Dilemmas in Treating Critically Ill People Who Use Injection Drugs
Authors: Baldassarri Stephen R. , Lee Ike , Latham Stephen R. , D'Onofrio Gail
Published: July 2018

Physicians who care for critically ill people with opioid use disorder frequently face medical, legal, and ethical questions related to the provision of life-saving medical care. We examine a complex medical case that illustrates these challenges in a person with relapsing injection drug use. We focus on a specific question: Is futility an appropriate and useful standard by which to determine provision of life-saving care to such individuals? If so, how should such determinations be made? If not, what alternative decisionmaking framework exists? We determine that although futility has been historically utilized as a justification for withholding care in certain settings, it is not a useful standard to apply in cases involving people who use injection drugs for non-medical purposes. Instead, we are welladvised to explore each patient's situation in a holistic approach that includes the patient, family members, and care providers in the decision-making process. The scope of the problem illustrated demonstrates the urgent need to definitively improve outcomes in people who use injection drugs. Increasing access to high quality medication-assisted treatment and psychiatric care for individuals with opioid use disorder will help our patients achieve a sustained remission and allow us to reach this goal.
Buprenorphine Supply, Access, and Quality: Where We Have Come and the Path Forward
Authors: Breen Christopher T. , Fiellin David A.
Published: July 2018

Buprenorphine is a form of opioid agonist treatment that has been demonstrated to be an effective medication for opioid addiction. It is available in different formulations and marketed under various trade names, including commonly as a buprenorphine/naloxone combination. This paper provides an overview of existing literature on the supply of buprenorphine treatment, the ability of people to access treatment with buprenorphine, and the quality of treatment received. We argue that better data for each of these aspects of treatment could inform policy to expand effective treatment with buprenorphine, and we suggest steps to obtain and act on such data.
The Role of Civil Commitment in the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Bhalla Ish P. , Cohen Nina , Haupt Claudia E. , Stith Kate , Zhong Rocksheng
Published: July 2018

This article seeks to shed light on civil commitment in the context of the opioid crisis, to sketch the existing legal landscape surrounding civil commitment, and to illustrate the relevant medical, ethical, and legal concerns that policymakers must take into account as they struggle to find appropriate responses to the crisis.
The Impact of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs on U.S. Opioid Prescriptions
Authors: Ayres Ian , Jalal Amen
Published: July 2018

This paper seeks to understand the treatment effect of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) on opioid prescription rates. Using county-level panel data on all opioid prescriptions in the U.S. between 2006 and 2015, we investigate whether state interventions like PDMPs have heterogeneous treatment effects at the sub-state level, based on regional and temporal variations in policy design, extent of urbanization, race, and income. Our models comprehensively control for a set of county and time fixed effects, countyspecific and time-varying demographic controls, potentially endogenous time-series trends in prescription rates, and other state-level opioid interventions such as Naloxone Access and Good Samaritan laws, Medicaid expansion, and the provision of Methadone Assistance Treatment. We find that PDMPs are only effective in reducing prescription rates if they obligate doctors to check for patients' history prior to filling out a prescription, but the frequency at which a state requires its PDMP to be updated is irrelevant to its effectiveness. Moreover, the significant treatment effects of PDMPs are almost exclusively driven by urban and predominantly white counties, with the relatively more affluent regions showing greater responsiveness than their less affluent counterparts.
Big Data and the Opioid Crisis: Balancing Patient Privacy with Public Health
Authors: Butler John Matthew , Becker William C. , Humphreys Keith
Published: July 2018

Parts I through III of this paper will examine several, increasingly comprehensive forms of aggregation, ranging from insurance reimbursement “lock-in” programs to PDMPs to completely unified electronic medical records (EMRs). Each part will advocate for the adoption of these aggregation systems and provide suggestions for effective implementation in the fight against opioid misuse. All PDMPs are not made equal, however, and Part II will, therefore, focus on several elements — mandating prescriber usage, streamlining the user interface, ensuring timely data uploads, creating a national data repository, mitigating privacy concerns, and training doctors on how to respond to perceived doctor-shopping — that can make these systems more effective. In each part, we will also discuss the privacy concerns of aggregating data, ranging from minimal to significant, and highlight the unique role of stigma in motivating these concerns. In Part IV, we will conclude by suggesting remedial steps to offset this loss of privacy and to combat the stigma around SUDs and mental health disorders in general.
Application study on fiber Bragg grating sensors in damage monitoring of sandwich composite joints
Authors: Zeng Haiyan , Yan Renjun , Xu Lin , Gui Siyuan
Published: July 2018

This article studies the application of fiber Bragg grating sensors in damage monitoring of sandwich composite L-joints, which aims to reveal the interface damage between the GFRP skin and the foam core. Fiber Bragg grating sensors have been arranged based on numerical results. The ultimate load and failure location via numerical modelling have been experimentally verified. Strains measured by fiber Bragg grating sensors have shown anomalies with load increased, indicating the onset and propagation of damage. Based on the damage-induced strain anomalies, four stages have been addressed to reveal the emergence, accumulation and propagation of damage during the loading process. Measurements by numerical simulation and surface mounted strain gauges have been found to be less sensitive to internal damage, proving the great significance of embedding fiber Bragg grating sensors to monitor interface damages of sandwich L-joint.
Clinical and Dermoscopic Features of Lichenoid Keratosis: A Retrospective Case Study
Authors: Gori Alessia , Oranges Teresa , Janowska Agata , Savarese Imma , Chiarugi Alessandra , Nardini Paolo , Salvati Lorenzo , Maria Palleschi Giovanni , Scarfì Federica , Massi Daniela , Innocenti Alessandro , Covarelli Piero , De Giorgi Vincenzo
Published: July 2018

Background:

Lichenoid keratosis is a benign cutaneous lesion exhibiting many clinical faces and different dermoscopic features.

Objective:

This study aims to determine the pattern of different clinical subtypes of lichenoid keratosis and to establish whether there is any correlation between the clinical variants of lichenoid keratosis and their dermoscopic appearance.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records and clinical database of patients who had received a histological diagnosis of lichenoid keratosis. Based on the literature review and the clinical-dermoscopic features of lichenoid keratosis, we divided the lesions into 6 clinical subtypes to evaluate potential correlations between clinical and dermoscopic features in all subtypes.

Results:

Fifty-one lesions were included in this clinical study. Preoperatively, only 1.9% of cases were clinically diagnosed as lichenoid keratosis, and the most common misdiagnosis was basal cell carcinoma (52.9%). We identified 6 subtypes of lichenoid keratosis and their corresponding dermoscopic features and clues.

Conclusion:

Since lichenoid keratosis has no pathognomonic dermoscopic clues and it is commonly misdiagnosed as malignant skin neoplasms, such as basal cell carcinoma and melanoma, improving the knowledge of both clinical and dermoscopic variability of lichenoid keratosis may help dermatologists to reduce unnecessary surgery and to reduce health care spending.
Exploring national trends of patient- and family-centered care among US children
Authors: Anderson Andrew C , Akre Ellesse , Chen Jie
Published: July 2018

We explored national trends in the receipt of high-quality patient–physician communication and patient empowerment through behavioral health counseling among children in the United States. We used data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey from 2010 to 2014. We employed two measures of patient- and family-centered care (PFCC): (1) a composite measure of high-quality patient–physician communication ( n = 34,629) and (2) patient empowerment through behavioral health counseling about healthy eating ( n = 36,527) and exercise ( n = 38,318). We used multivariate logistic regression models to estimate the variation of receiving PFCC by social determinants of health over time. Rates of receiving behavioral health counseling about healthy eating (53–60%) and exercise (37–42%) were lower than the rate of receiving high-quality physician–patient communication (92–93%). Parents were significantly more likely to report receiving high-quality physician–patient communication in 2014 than in 2010 (odds ratio 1.37, confidence interval 1.08–1.67); however, no association was found for empowerment through behavioral health counseling. Low income and parental educational attainment, and lack of insurance were associated with lower odds of receiving behavioral health counseling. Results showed significant variation of physician–patient communication and empowerment by social and demographic factors. The results suggest more providers need to empower parents and their children to self-care through behavioral health counseling.
Inhaler usability of a pressurized metered dose inhaler and a soft mist inhaler in patients with COPD: A simulated-use study
Authors: Ding Bo , Siddiqui Shahid , DePietro Michael , Petersson Gunilla , Martin Ubaldo J
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate task performance and handling errors with soft mist inhalers (SMIs) or pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experienced with, but not recently trained in, using these devices. This exploratory, noninterventional, simulated-use study (D5970R00004) assessed handling/usability of SMIs and pMDIs in inhaler-experienced patients with COPD (40–78 years; diagnosis ≥6 months). Patients received a device and instruction-for-use leaflet but no training and were recorded while performing tasks required for checking the device, priming, and dosing. Errors that could substantially affect the lung-delivered dose were considered critical. Sixteen of 61 patients (52% male) had used SMIs and 55 had used pMDIs. Thirty-one patients received an SMI and 30 a pMDI. Overall, 79% made ≥5 performance errors (SMI 94%; pMDI 63%) and 49% made ≥5 critical errors (SMI 68%; pMDI 30%). All patients made ≥1 error; three (all pMDI) made no critical errors. Regardless of the device used and previous inhaler experience, patient-centered training, education, and continuous retraining on correct inhaler use should be key aspects of routine patient care in COPD.
Situational Action Theory’s Self-Control/Morality Interaction Effects and the Moderating Influence of Being Female: A Comparison of Property and Violent Offending Using a Sample of Juvenile Delinquents
Authors: Ishoy Glen A. , Blackwell Brenda Sims
Published: July 2018

This study tests the interaction effects between self-control and morality that are proposed by situational action theory (SAT) and examines the ability of biological sex to condition those processes for both property and violent offending. This study employs negative binomial regression to analyze data from the Pathways to Desistance data set ( n = 1,354). Results generally support the posited general nature of SAT for violent offending. The results for property offending were also supported; however, some of the results indicated that sex may moderate the associations of SAT’s key variables for this offense type. Our results indicate that the assumption of generalizability across the sexes may be less problematic for SAT than for other theories, but more work is needed to fully articulate how sex affects the processes at work in the theory.
Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Alleviates H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis via Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Neonatal Rat Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Yanmin
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

We aimed to test the mechanism of protective effects of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on cardiovascular disease using cultured cardiomyocytes.

Methods:

Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) were isolated and cultured and then the cells were divided into 4 groups based on the treatments: control group (cells treated with culture medium), H2O2/thapsigargin (TG) group (cells treated with oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum [ER] stress inducer), TUDCA group, and H2O2/TG + TUDCA group. The treated NRCMs were then subjected to serial analyses including flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting.

Results:

Tauroursodeoxycholic acid significantly attenuated H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species generation and lactate dehydrogenase release and restored H2O2-induced reductions of glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels in NRCMs. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid also alleviated H2O2-induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis, as well as the Bax/Bcl2 ratio compared with that of H2O2 treated alone. In addition, TUDCA suppressed TG-induced ER stress as reflected by inversing cell viability and the expression levels of glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa and C/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein.

Conclusion:

Our data indicated that TUDCA-mediated inhibition on H2O2-induced oxidative stress and cardiomyocytes apoptosis was through suppressing ER stress, and TUDCA possesses the potential to be developed as therapeutic tool in clinical use for cardiovascular diseases.
Treatment with exenatide in acute ischemic stroke trial protocol: A prospective, randomized, open label, blinded end-point study of exenatide vs. standard care in post stroke hyperglycemia
Authors: Muller Claire , Cheung N Wah , Dewey Helen , Churilov Leonid , Middleton Sandy , Thijs Vincent , Ekinci Elif I , Levi Chris , Lindley Richard , Donnan Geoffrey , Parsons Mark , Bladin Christopher
Published: July 2018

Rationale

Post-stroke hyperglycemia occurs in up to 50% of patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. It reduces the efficacy of thrombolysis, increases infarct size, and worsens clinical outcomes. Insulin-based therapies have generally not been beneficial in treating post-stroke hyperglycemia as they are difficult to implement, may cause hypoglycaemia, possibly increase mortality and worsen clinical outcomes. Exenatide may be a safer, simpler, and more effective alternative to insulin in acute ischemic stroke.

Design

TEXAIS is a three year, Phase 2, multi-center, prospective, randomized, open label, blinded end-point trial comparing exenatide to standard of care. It aims to recruit 528 patients with a primary end point of major neurological improvement at 7 days defined as a ≥8-point improvement in NIHSS score, or NIHSS 0–1. Secondary outcomes of hyper- and hypoglycaemia at 5 days and NIHSS and mRS at 90 days will be measured. The treatment arm will receive exenatide 5 µg subcutaneously twice daily. The control arm will receive standard stroke unit care. Continuous glucose monitors will track the dynamic variability of glucose.

Conclusion

TEXAIS aims to show that exenatide is safe and effective in the treatment of post-stroke hyperglycemia. It has been designed to be highly generalizable with an ability to enroll a large percentage of patients with acute ischemic stroke, regardless of admission blood glucose level, diabetes status, or stroke severity, with very low risk of hypoglycemia. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov/ANZCTR NTA1127
Prospective Randomized Open-label Trial to evaluate risk faCTor management in patients with Unruptured intracranial aneurysms: Study protocol
Authors: Vergouwen Mervyn DI , Rinkel Gabriel JE , Algra Ale , Fiehler Jens , Steinmetz Helmuth , Vajkoczy Peter , Rutten Frans H , Luntz Steffen , Hänggi Daniel , Etminan Nima
Published: July 2018

Rationale

Unruptured intracranial aneurysms are currently left untreated if the presumed complication risk of preventive endovascular or neurosurgical intervention is higher than the risk of rupture. Aneurysm wall inflammation and blood pressure are attractive modifiable risk factors of aneurysm rupture and growth.

Aim

To investigate in patients with an unruptured intracranial aneurysm who do not qualify for preventive endovascular or neurosurgical intervention whether a treatment strategy of acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg/day plus intensive blood pressure treatment (targeted systolic blood pressure < 120 mmHg, monitored with a home blood pressure measuring device) reduces the risk of aneurysm rupture or growth compared with care as usual (no acetylsalicylic acid, targeted office systolic blood pressure < 140 mmHg, no home blood pressure measuring device).

Sample size

We aim to randomize 776 patients 1:1 to the intervention arm or care as usual.

Design

Bi-national (Germany and the Netherlands) multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label phase III trial with blinded outcome assessment.

Outcomes

The primary outcome is aneurysm rupture or growth (increase in any aneurysm diameter by ≥ 1 mm) on repeated MR or CT angiography within 36 ± 6 months after randomization.

Discussion

The Prospective Randomized Open-label Trial to Evaluate risk faCTor management in patients with Unruptured intracranial aneurysms (PROTECT-U) is the first randomized trial to investigate if a medical strategy reduces the risk of rupture or growth of intracranial aneurysms in patients not undergoing preventive endovascular or neurosurgical aneurysm treatment. Clinical trial Registration: NCT03063541.
“Fights Happen . . . It’s Just What Drunks Do”: Alcohol and the Situational Normalization of College Student Fighting
Authors: Weiss Karen G. , Woods Joshua
Published: July 2018

Fights are common at many U.S. residential universities and colleges and often seen as “normal” by students who witness them. This study explores the normalization of college fighting by using a situational learning approach that highlights definitions as learned and shared within a drinking context. Exploratory analysis of survey data finds that nine in 10 fights at college occur when at least one participant is intoxicated, and more than half of fights take place at drinking hot spots (e.g., bars, parties). Fights that occur at drinking hot spots are also twice as likely to be seen as normal (e.g., ordinary, harmless) by students who witness them, even after controlling for the seriousness of the fight (as measured by injury, number, and gender of fighters). Students who drink are four times as likely as nondrinkers to normalize fights. Yet, fights are no more likely to be normalized when fighters or witnesses are intoxicated, suggesting expectations related to intoxication and the drinking context may have a greater impact on definitions than alcohol itself. We conclude with a discussion of the theoretical and practical relevance of situational learning in future research on fighting and violence more broadly.
Are the absent always wrong? Dealing with zero values in urban scaling
Authors: Finance Olivier , Cottineau Clémentine
Published: July 2018

Both theoretical and empirical studies have shown the ability of scaling laws to reveal processes of emergence in urban systems. Nevertheless, a controversy about the robustness of results obtained with these models on empirical cases remains, regarding for instance the definition of the ‘city’ considered or the way the estimations are performed. Another source of bias is highlighted in this contribution, with respect to the non-ubiquitous character of some urban attributes (i.e. their partial absence from several cities of the system). The problem with the zero count for cities where these attributes are absent is that the technical necessities of usual estimation procedures make the analysis ignore them altogether even when they represent some valid information. This could seriously impact the results. A precise exploration of the effects of this arbitrary filtering is conducted here, and several solutions are proposed to overcome this limitation. In a case study about foreign investment towards French cities, we show that some erroneous conclusions about a hierarchical diffusion could be drawn when adopting the classical ordinary least squares approach. The framework we suggest specifies how it is possible to avoid misinterpretations deriving from the exclusion of zero values by using methods of analysis which deal with zero values specifically. The conclusion of a diffusion of foreign investment in the French urban system is then rejected.
Collaborative Research Project Networks
Authors: Takahashi Marissa , Indulska Marta , Steen John
Published: July 2018

Many businesses seeking enhanced innovation have corporate research teams that engage in collaborative research projects (CRPs), with external entities such as universities, public organizations, or customers. Anecdotal evidence, however, suggests mixed outcomes of CRPs in terms of corporate research impact, which implies successful transfer of novel knowledge generated within CRPs to company-internal business networks to develop radically innovative products. We use the multiple regression quadratic assignment procedure (MRQAP) and meta-analysis to analyze six CRP networks. Our findings indicate that the network’s relational characteristics (tie strength) and structural characteristics (network range) are important determinants of knowledge transfer at the fuzzy front end of innovation.