bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and feasibility of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Lu-Lu , Li Yong-Ting , Tu Jian-Feng , Yang Jing-Wen , Sun Ning , Zhang Shuai , Wang Tian-Qi , Shi Guang-Xia , Du Yi , Zhao Jing-Jie , Xiong Da-Chang , Hou Hai-Kun , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: July 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for pain relief and function improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis and to determine the feasibility of an eight-week acupuncture intervention.

Design:

Pilot randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Three teaching hospitals in China.

Subjects:

Patients with knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren grade II or III).

Interventions:

Patients were randomly assigned to an eight-week (three sessions per week) intervention of either traditional Chinese acupuncture or sham acupuncture.

Main measures:

The primary outcome was response rate—the proportion of patients achieving score ⩾36% decrease in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain and function at week 8 compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes included pain, function and quality of life.

Results:

Of 42 patients randomized, 36 (85.7%) completed the study. There was no significant difference in response rate between the traditional Chinese acupuncture and control groups: 61.9% (13 of 21) versus 42.9% (9 of 21) achieved score ⩾36% decrease in WOMAC pain and function at week 8 ( P = 0.217). The sum of WOMAC pain and function scores at week 8 was 11.6 (9.1) in the traditional Chinese acupuncture group compared with 16.3 (10.9) in the control group ( P = 0.183). There was no significant difference between groups. Three adverse events were recorded and were classified as mild.

Conclusion:

It showed that three sessions per week acupuncture intervention of knee osteoarthritis was feasible and safe. No difference was observed between groups due to small sample size. Larger (sample size ⩾ 296) randomized controlled trials of this intervention appear justified.
Mosaic and tapestry: Metaphors as geographical concept generators
Authors: Nelson Garrett Dash
Published: July 2018

This paper examines the use of the metaphorical terms ‘mosaic’ and ‘tapestry’ in conceptualizing the structure of spatial organization over more than a century of geographic thought. The duality between a mosaic-like, discrete geography and a tapestry-like, indiscrete geography is one of the fundamental paradoxes in spatial ontology; this paper explores how this duality has configured the commitments of geography and continues to play a role in the more recent debate between ‘territorial’ and ‘relational’ spatial metaphors. It argues for a reconciliation of incompatible metaphors, since the complexity of the phenomenal world exceeds resolution into any single descriptive system.
A Generalized Single-Level Formulation for Origin–Destination Estimation under Stochastic User Equilibrium
Authors: Ma Wei , Qian Zhen (Sean)
Published: July 2018

Origin–destination (OD) demand is an indispensable component for modeling transportation networks, and the prevailing approach to estimating OD demand using traffic data is through bi-level optimization. A bi-level optimization approach considering equilibrium constraints is computationally challenging for large-scale networks, which prevents the OD estimation (ODE) being scalable. To solve for ODE in large-scale networks, this paper develops a generalized single-level formulation for ODE incorporating stochastic user equilibrium (SUE) constraints. Two single-level ODE models are specifically discussed and tested. One employs a SUE based on the satisfaction function, and the other is based on the Logit model. Analytical properties of the new formulation are analyzed. The estimation methods are proven to be unbiased. Gradient-based algorithms are proposed to solve for this formulation. Numerical experiments are conducted on a small network and a large network, along with sensitivity analysis on sensor locations, historical OD information and measurement error. Results indicate that the new single-level formulation, in conjunction with the proposed solution algorithms, can achieve accuracy comparable with the bi-level formulation, while being much more computationally efficient for large networks.
Improved Numerical Method for Aw-Rascle Type Continuum Traffic Flow Models
Authors: Mohammadian Saeed , van Wageningen-Kessels Femke
Published: July 2018

Continuum traffic flow models are essentially nonlinear hyperbolic systems of partial differential equations. Except for limited specific cases, these systems must be solved numerically. Mathematical structure of continuum models can be different for each class of models. As a result, suitable numerical schemes for some classes may not be efficient for others. In this study, an improved numerical method is proposed for a class of second-order traffic flow models. The method is based on McCormack scheme, which is a widely-used method for non-homogeneous second-order traffic flow models, but fails to produce reasonable results for homogeneous models including Aw-Rascle type models which are the focus of this paper. It is shown that this is mainly due to spurious numerical oscillations. Smoothing methods to overcome these issues are studied and applied. Central dispersion and artificial viscosity (AV) methods are incorporated into the standard McCormack scheme and tested. To reduce numerical diffusion, a total variation diminishing Runge-Kutta time stepping scheme is applied. Results show the capability of the proposed methods, and especially the AV method, to eliminate the oscillations of the standard McCormack scheme as well as controlling numerical diffusion.
A Capacity Estimation Model for a Contraflow Left-Turn Pocket Lane at Signalized Intersections
Authors: Zhao Yi , James Rachel M. , Xiao Lin , Bared Joe
Published: July 2018

Alternative intersection designs are increasingly proposed and adopted by different agencies to meet the needs of growing traffic demand and constrained transportation resources. The left turn (LT) is one of the most critical movements at signalized intersections from both a safety and operations perspective. Heavy LT volumes are especially impactful to the operational efficiency of a signalized intersection and often result in queue spillback. A contraflow left-turn pocket lane (CLPL) is proposed to mitigate congestion caused by heavy LT demand and has been shown in simulation to greatly mitigate the impact of queue spillback. The CLPL dynamically uses the opposing through lane (OTL) as an additional LT lane within the signal cycle on a temporary basis when the OTL is not occupied by through traffic. While geometric design schematics and analytical procedures for estimating delay have been proposed and discussed in existing literature, methodologies for estimating capacity benefits and traffic operations are not yet well defined. This paper has three primary contributions to the literature: development of a probabilistic capacity estimation model, exploration of the impact of key characteristics (e.g., cycle length, LT demand, lane selection preference) on estimated intersection capacity, and recommendations for the real-world implementation of a CLPL. The simulation results indicate that the CLPL treatment can increase a signalized intersection’s throughput up to 25% and decrease the intersection’s average delay by 35%.
Assessment of Anthropometric Data Following Investments to Ensure Quality: Kenya Demographic Health Surveys Case Study, 2008 to 2009 and 2014
Authors: Leidman Eva , Mwirigi Louise Masese , Maina-Gathigi Lucy , Wamae Anna , Imbwaga Andrew Amina , Bilukha Oleg O.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Evidence-based nutrition programs depend on accurate estimates of malnutrition derived from data collected in population representative surveys. The feasibility of obtaining accurate anthropometric data as part of national, multisectoral surveys has been a debated issue.

Objectives:

The study aimed to evaluate changes in anthropometric data quality corresponding to investments by the Kenya Ministry of Health and nutrition sector partners for the 2014 Kenya Demographic Health Survey.

Methods:

Anthropometric data collected during the 2008 to 2009 and 2014 Kenya surveys were reanalyzed to assess standard parameters of quality: standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis of z-score values for 3 anthropometric indicators (weight for height, height for age, and weight for age), percentage of children with missing measurements and outlier values, digit preference, and heaping of age.

Results:

A total of 9936 households were selected in 2008 to 2009, and 39 679 households were selected in 2014. Standard deviation of z-scores for all 3 indicators was smaller in 2014 than in 2008 to 2009. Applying original Demographic and Health Survey exclusion criteria, weight for height z-scores were 1.16 in 2014, 10.1% narrower than 2008 to 2009. The percentage of outlying values declined significantly from 2008 to 2009 to 2014 for both height for age and weight for height ( P < .001). Digit preference scores in 2014 improved for both weight ( P = .011) and height ( P < .001) suggesting less rounding of terminal digits.

Conclusions:

All tests of data quality suggest an improvement in 2014 relative to 2008 to 2009, despite the complexity implied by the larger sample. This improvement corresponds with efforts to enhance training and supervision of anthropometry, suggesting a positive effect of these enhancements.
Attitudes toward Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs in Caregivers of Children with Moderate–Acute Malnutrition Younger than 5 Years in Denpasar, Bali: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dewi Satiawati K. Desak Ketut , Januraga Pande Putu
Published: July 2018

Background:

Providing additional nutriment represents one strategy for overcoming moderate–acute malnutrition (MAM) in children younger than 5 years. However, it is important to examine how well received such Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) are by caregivers in order to ensure optimal results.

Objective:

This study explores SNAP’s reception by caregivers of MAM children younger than 5 years.

Methods:

Qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 16 selected caregivers and 5 Nutritional Executives from October to November, 2016 at 4 health centers in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. The results are presented to highlight the underlying patterns of SNAP’s acceptance.

Results:

Overall, the informants responded negatively to SNAP, reporting that it was of limited usefulness. The results show 4 main themes relating to the receipt of SNAP. The first relates to the caregiver’s preferences in terms of the types of supplementary food on offer. Second, caregiver’s perceptions that the child was not, in fact, in a state of illness or disease due to a medical issue. Third, that the caregiver does not require supplementary food as they maintain that they are able to buy it independently. Fourth, factors related to the lack of support for health-care workers working with malnourished children.

Conclusion:

The study finds that strengthening the role of health workers in terms of enabling them to effectively communicate the benefits of supplementary food to caregivers as well as adjusting the range of foods available according to the recipient’s preferences is critical in overcoming malnutrition in children younger than 5 years.
Revisiting the Relationship between Urban Form and Excess Commuting in US Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Ha Jaehyun , Lee Sugie , Kwon Sung Moon
Published: July 2018

This article revisits the relationship between urban form and excess commuting by analyzing 206 metropolitan statistical areas in the United States. Using the most recent Census Transportation Planning Products, we revalidated the importance of using multidimensional indices when examining excess commuting across metropolitan areas. We found that higher levels of polycentricity aggravate cross-commuting, while higher central city dominance improves excess commuting. In addition, our results indicate the significant impact of sprawl or jobs–housing dispersal on excess commuting. These findings shed light on the multidimensional relationship between urban form and excess commuting.
The Pathogenesis of Nonocclusive Mesenteric Ischemia: Implications for Research and Clinical Practice
Authors: Al-Diery Hussam , Phillips Anthony , Evennett Nicholas , Pandanaboyana Sanjay , Gilham Michael , Windsor John A.
Published: July 2018

Nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) is a condition that can encompass ischemia, inflammation, and infarction of the intestinal wall. In contrast to most patients with acute mesenteric ischemia, NOMI is distinguished by patent arteries and veins. The clinical presentation of NOMI is often insidious and nonspecific, resulting in a delayed diagnosis. Patients most at risk are those with severe acute and critical disease, including major surgery and trauma. Nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia is part of a spectrum, from mild, asymptomatic, and an unexpected finding on CT scanning, through to those exhibiting abdominal distension and peritonitis. Severe NOMI is associated with a significant mortality rate. This review of NOMI pathophysiology was conducted to document current concepts and evidence, to examine the implications for diagnosis and treatment, and to identify gaps in knowledge that might direct future research. The key pathologic mechanisms involved in the genesis of NOMI represent an exaggerated normal physiological response to maintain perfusion of vital organs at the expense of mesenteric perfusion. A supply–demand mismatch develops in the intestine due to the development of persistent mesenteric vasoconstriction resulting in reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the intestine, particularly to the vulnerable superficial mucosa. This mismatch can be exacerbated by raised intra-abdominal pressure, enteral nutrition, and the use of certain vasoactive drugs, ultimately resulting in the development of intestinal ischemia. Strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment are urgently needed.
Specific Cognitive–Psychopathological Phenotypes in Patients With Early Stages of Subcortical Vascular Neurocognitive Disorders: A Hospital-Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Levada Oleg A. , Troyan Alexandra S. , Cherednichenko Nataliya V.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Diagnosis of subcortical vascular neurocognitive disorders’ (ScVNCDs) is currently based on neuropsychological and neuroimaging approaches; nevertheless, clinical features, apart from cognitive impairments (CI), may provide additional information about ScVNCD phenotypes. We aimed to determine whether CI and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) form such clinical phenotypes in the mild and early stage of major ScVNCD.

Methods:

Our sample included 88 cognitively normal elderly individuals, 100 patients with mild ScVNCD, and 60 patients with early major ScVNCD. All participants had neuropsychological, neuropsychiatric, neurological, and functional evaluations. The prevalence of NPS was based on the neuropsychiatric inventory. The statistical analyses included parametric and nonparametric tests and multivariate regression.

Results:

The severity of executive dysfunction increased through stages of ScVNCD progression ( P < .0001). The NPS with significant predictive value for mild ScVNCD membership was depression (odds ratio [OR] = 7.4), whereas for early major ScVNCD were depression (OR = 5.5) and apathy (OR = 7.6). Those distinguishing NPS and impairments of executive tests’ performance significantly correlated ( P < .05) in patients with mild/major ScVNCD.

Conclusion:

Significant correlation between pathognomonic cognitive and NPS in compared groups suggest that dysexecutive-depressive syndrome can be the main phenotype in mild ScVNCD, while dysexecutive-depressive-apathetic syndrome in the early stage of major ScVNCD. Obtained cognitive–psychopathological phenotypes may allow a better comprehension of the ScVNCD pathophysiology and improve the diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
Diesel air path control using pressure difference: Pumping loss and aging considerations
Authors: Salehi Rasoul , Stefanopoulou Anna , Vernham Bruce
Published: July 2018

Pressure difference across the exhaust and intake manifolds ([Formula: see text] P) is a crucial variable to control the pumping loss and cylinder charge dilution through the exhaust gas recirculation in a diesel engine. This paper presents a novel architecture for controlling [Formula: see text] P and the engine-out NO x emissions, which increases the controller tolerance to engine components aging. The architecture has an internal control loop, designed as a two-input two-output controller, to coordinate the exhaust gas recirculation and variable geometry turbine valves. Using feedback from [Formula: see text] P and the estimated cylinder oxygen ratio [Formula: see text] cyl, the two-input two-output controller regulates the pumping loss and the engine NO x emissions. To reduce high turbo lag and its associated slow air–fuel ratio ([Formula: see text]) response, which are inherent features of a [Formula: see text] P-based control strategy, the two-input two-output linear quadratic controller is tuned such that [Formula: see text] is also regulated, but only during fast transients. An external loop is supplementing the core two-input two-output controller correcting the internal loop set points to reduce the effects of [Formula: see text] cyl estimation errors on NO x control and ensure [Formula: see text] stays above a minimum value, [Formula: see text] min, critical for smoke emissions. As a feature of the proposed control system, direct feedback from [Formula: see text] P increases pumping loss robustness to common degradation in diesel engines, namely, turbine efficiency and diesel particulate filter blockage due to ash deposit, compared to a conventional boost pressure–based controller. Also, it is shown that the input–output coupling structure of the proposed two-input two-output controller and use of the NO x feedback mitigate effects of exhaust gas recirculation fouling and associated exhaust gas recirculation valve saturation on increase in NO x emission.
A Study of Neonatal Thrombocytopenia in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Study
Authors: Kumar Ray Rajib , Panda Suchismita , Patnaik Rashmi , Sarangi Gadadhara
Published: July 2018

Objective: Finding out etiology, clinical course, immediate outcome, and association of maternal and neonatal factors that predispose to neonatal thrombocytopenia.

Setting: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (between November 2014 and October 2016).

Design: Prospective observational study.

Results: In the NICU setting, severe (39%) thrombocytopenia and very severe thrombocytopenia (51%) are very common. Neonatal sepsis (67%) is the leading cause of thrombocytopenia followed by prematurity (52%) with overlaps. Maternal pregnancy-induced hypertension is significantly associated with neonatal thrombocytopenia. The outcome is very poor in severe thrombocytopenia. Platelet transfusion remains the main stay of therapy.

Conclusion: Septicemia is the most common preventable cause of thrombocytopenia in our setting. Birth asphyxia, which is the third most common cause, is partly preventable. Low platelet count was found to be an independent risk factor for the poor outcome in neonates admitted in the NICU. The mortality rate is very high among very severe thrombocytopenic infants.
A Retrospective Study of Therapeutic Hypothermia in Neonatal Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Maheshwari Rajesh , D’Cruz Daphne , Goyen Traci-anne , Gibbs Emma , Luig Melissa
Published: July 2018

Objectives: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) is now standard treatment for moderate to severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), secondary to intrapartum hypoxia, and has been performed in our neonatal unit since 2008. Objectives of this study included the assessment of compliance with the TH protocol and the evaluation of 2-year outcomes.

Materials and Methods: Medical records of all the infants who underwent TH (2008-2014) were reviewed and relevant data were extracted. The laboratory database was used to extract blood test results. Follow-up clinic records were reviewed to gather data for 2-year outcomes. Outcome at 2 years was dichotomized as normal (survival with no or mild impairment) and abnormal (death or survival with moderate or severe impairment). Regression analysis was performed to determine the association of perinatal variables with an abnormal outcome.

Results: Seventy-seven infants were treated with TH with 40/77 (52%) cooled as per the protocol. Treatment with TH for stage 1 HIE was the most common reason for protocol noncompliance. A total of 71 infants had HIE ( n = 26, 24, and 21 with modified Sarnat stages 1, 2, and 3 respectively). Sixteen infants with HIE (22.5%) died; all had stage 3 HIE. Forty-one infants were seen at ≥2 years. Of these, 34 infants (83%) had a normal outcome. The clinical stage of HIE was the strongest predictor of an abnormal outcome. Normal 2-year outcome was seen in 94%, 84%, and 5% of stages 1, 2, and 3 HIE respectively.

Conclusions: We noted a high degree of variation from the TH protocol. Clinical staging of HIE remains the strongest predictor of long-term outcome.
Getting to the Heart of the Matter: A Regional Survey of Current Hospice Practices Caring for Patients With Heart Failure Receiving Advanced Therapies
Authors: Groninger Hunter , Gilhuly Devin , Walker Kathryn A.
Published: July 2018

Background:

No guidelines exist regarding care for patients with advanced heart failure (HF) receiving hospice care while continuing advanced HF therapies such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) or continuous inotropes.

Objective:

We surveyed hospice providers in our tristate region to determine hospice demographics, current practices for care of patients with advanced HF, and perceived challenges of providing advanced HF therapies.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey of hospice clinical and administrative leaders.

Results:

Forty-six respondents representing 23 hospices completed the survey. Over half (27/46) held leadership administrative roles, and most (37/46) had more than 5 years of hospice experience. Although lack of experience and cost were cited as primary barriers to providing inotrope therapy in home hospice, about half of respondents (24/46) said they would manage inotropes. All participants said their respective hospices accept patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators; over half (28/46) said they accept patients with LVADs into hospice care. Lack of experience with LVADs was the most frequently cited barrier. Most participants were interested in training and support by an advanced HF program to facilitate hospice care of patients receiving these advanced therapies. General access to hospice services for patients with HF at their organization was considered adequate by 30 of 46 participants. Most (32/46) reported that referrals are made too late.

Conclusions:

Hospice specialists reported widely varied practice experiences caring for patients with HF receiving advanced therapies, noted specific challenges for care of these patients, and expressed a desire for targeted HF education.
Children Enrolled in Hospice Care Under Commercial Insurance: A Comparison of Different Age Groups
Authors: Lindley Lisa C. , Cohrs Austin C. , Keim-Malpass Jessica , Leslie Douglas L.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Although most children at end of life have commercial insurance, little is known about their demographic and clinical characteristics, what care they are receiving, and how much it costs.

Objectives:

To describe commercially insured children who enrolled in hospice care during their last year of life and to examine differences across age-groups.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using 2005 to 2014 data from the MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database from Truven Health Analytics. Variables were created for demographics, health, utilization, and spending. Analyses included χ2 and analysis of variance tests of differences.

Results:

Among the 17 062 children who utilized hospice, 49% had a preferred provider organization (PPO). Hospice length of stay averaged less than 5 days. Over 80% of children visited their primary care physician. Eight percent had hospital readmissions, and 38% had emergency department (ED) visits. Average expenditures were US$3686 per month or US$44 232 annually. The most common condition for children less than 1 year was cardiovascular (21.96%). Neuromuscular conditions were the most frequent (7.89%) in children aged 1 to 5 years, while malignancies (10.53% and 11.32%, respectively) were prevalent in ages 6 to 14 and 15 to 17. Children less than 1 year had the highest frequency of hospital readmissions (16.25%) with the lowest ED visits (28.67%) while incurring the highest expenses (US$11 211/month).

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that commercially insured children, who enroll in hospice, have flexible coverage with a PPO. Hospital readmissions and ED visits were relatively low for a population who was seriously ill. There were significant age-group differences.
Content of Orthopedic Patient Education Provided by Nurses in Seven European Countries
Authors: Charalambous Andreas , Papastavrou E. , Valkeapää K. , Zabalegui A. , Ingadóttir B. , Lemonidou C. , Fatkulina N. , Jouko K. , Leino-Kilpi H.
Published: July 2018

Patients’ and their significant others’ education during the perioperative phase is an important and challenging aspect of care. This study explored the content of education provided by nurses to arthroplasty patients and their significant others. Data were collected with the Education of Patients–NURSE content (EPNURSE-Content), Received Knowledge of Hospital Patient (RKhp), and Received Knowledge of Significant Other (RKso) scales. The results showed that the content of education emphasized biophysiological and functional needs, differed between countries, and was related to how physically demanding nurses found their job to be and the amount of education provided. There is congruence between the received knowledge of patients and their significant others in relation to the content of education provided by nurses. The findings can support nurses in developing aid material for patients and significant others explaining the nature of education and advising them what to expect and how to optimize their participation in the process.
We Have Seen It All. At the Mall
Authors: Corroto Carla , Richardson Laurel
Published: July 2018

Many of us have conflicted attitudes toward suburban shopping malls in the United States. Malls are environmentally irresponsible, reinforce a dependence on cars, fortify economic and social stratification, generate private-property, emphasize consumption, and are architecturally disappointing. Malls are also the places where we bought school shoes, where we garnered our first jobs, where we may see a diversity of products and people and tastes, and, remarkably, malls can still surprise us. This article is an overview of mall criticism and a narrative from reluctant mall enthusiasts. We sit at an equivocal place—in between the complexity and contradiction of the suburban shopping mall—while enjoying lunch.
Discrepant Drinking and Partner Violence Perpetration Over Time in Lesbians’ Relationships
Authors: Lewis Robin J. , Winstead Barbara A. , Braitman Abby L. , Hitson Phoebe
Published: July 2018

Discrepant drinking (i.e., differences in alcohol use) and perpetration of intimate partner violence in same-sex female couples were examined. Self-identified lesbian participants were recruited from market research firms and reported on their own and their partner’s alcohol use and their own perpetration of psychological aggression and physical violence at baseline, then 6 and 12 months later. Cross-lagged panel analyses revealed that discrepant drinking predicted participants’ subsequent perpetration of psychological aggression but not physical violence. Both psychological aggression and physical aggression predicted subsequent discrepant drinking. Consistent with findings in heterosexual couples, differences in alcohol use appear to be a risk factor for relationship aggression.
A Qualitative Analysis of Bystander Intervention Among Heavy-Drinking College Men
Authors: Oesterle Daniel W. , Orchowski Lindsay M. , Moreno Oswaldo , Berkowitz Alan
Published: July 2018

This study qualitatively examines how heavy-drinking college men conceptualize bystander intervention. Twelve semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with college men reporting past-month heavy drinking and sexual activity within the past 2 months. NVivo software was used to conduct a thematic analysis. Following the stage model of bystander intervention, men in this sample described situations—predominantly in drinking contexts—when other men made sexual advances toward women who were not interested or who were intoxicated as opportunities for intervention. Men reported relying on women’s expression of verbal and nonverbal cues as a sign that a situation was problematic, and warranting intervention. Men reported a desire to protect women from experiencing a sexual assault, or to protect a peer from being accused of rape. Men perceived themselves to be more likely to assume responsibility for intervening when the situation involved someone they knew, especially a female friend. A variety of intervention strategies were also reported. Preliminary support was offered for considering alcohol myopia as a barrier to intervention. The interviews also provided preliminary support for further investigation into the role of alcohol expectancies regarding “liquid courage” and “aggression” as factors that can influence bystander intervention when intoxicated. Implications for future research and the development of tailored sexual assault prevention efforts for heavy-drinking men are discussed.
Sexual Assault Survivor Reports of Missed Bystander Opportunities: The Role of Alcohol, Sexual Objectification, and Relational Factors
Authors: Haikalis Michelle , Leone Ruschelle M. , Parrott Dominic J. , DiLillo David
Published: July 2018

Examination of situations in which bystanders missed intervention opportunities to prevent sexual assault can advance our understanding of how bystanders can prevent sexual assault. The present study utilized an incident-specific approach based on reports from 427 female sexual assault victims (ages 18-25 years) recruited via Mechanical Turk. Results indicate that bystanders had an opportunity to intervene before 23% of sexual assaults, alcohol use in settings with bystanders was widespread (by perpetrators, victims, and bystanders), and several factors were more common in situations involving missed intervention opportunity. Findings provide useful information for continued development of bystander training and new directions in bystander research.
Alcohol, Marijuana, and Dating Abuse Perpetration by Young Adults: Results of a Daily Call Study
Authors: Rothman Emily F. , Stuart Gregory L. , Temple Jeff R. , Heeren Timothy
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate same-day alcohol or marijuana use and dating abuse (DA) perpetration in a sample of 60 noncollege-attending young adults. Participants reported daily data for 3 months. DA perpetration was more likely on days when participants also reported alcohol use (odds ratio [OR] = 2.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.38, 3.42]), but analyses of the temporal order indicated that alcohol use was not a proximal predictor of DA. Same day marijuana use was not associated with elevated risk of DA perpetration (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = [0.89, 2.21]). Results suggest the alcohol–DA relationship may vary by sample and context.
A model of isotropic damage with strain-gradient effects: existence and uniqueness of weak solutions for progressive damage processes
Authors: Bisconti Luca , Mariano Paolo Maria , Markenscoff Xanthippi
Published: July 2018

We propose a linearized model for isotropic damage with strain-gradient effects in the small-strain isothermal regime. We account for pressure-confinement effects induced by spatial variations of volume changes, which might locally determine a self-healing-type behavior. We prove the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions under conditions of progressive damage.
Democratic Education at 30: An interview with Dr. Amy Gutmann
Authors: Sardoc Mitja
Published: July 2018

In this interview, Dr. Amy Gutmann discusses the legacy of her book Democratic Education after 30 years since it was first published. After presenting some of the main ideas from Democratic Education, Dr. Gutmann emphasises the importance of both democratic education and democratic deliberation as central elements of public education in a plurally diverse polity. She then discusses a range of other educational issues including access to education as key to individual opportunity and social development (from both personal and scholarly perspectives) and the civic minimum goals of education in a democracy. Throughout the interview, Dr. Gutmann also presents a number of examples of how ideas and ideals central to her teaching and scholarship have been put into practice during her tenure as President of the University of Pennsylvania. The interview concludes with a reflection on some of the most pressing challenges facing education today.
Data processing method for constitutive relation of the rubber core material in spherical blowout preventer
Authors: Xu Daping , Yang Yingxin , Wu Kaisong
Published: July 2018

A data processing method for constitutive relation of large deformation rubber core in spherical blowout preventer is put forward in this article. Based on the Yeoh constitutive model and the large-deformation theory of rubber material, this article studied the constitutive relation of core material in blowout preventer. The constitutive relation experiments, the uniaxial tensile experiment, the uniaxial compression experiment, the plane tensile experiments, and the volume compression experiment were conducted and the corresponding experiment data were fitted, respectively, on basis of which the uniaxial compression data were selected for further study. For comparison, the data were, respectively, processed with a novel method and the method in GB/7757, and accordingly, two different constitutive relations were obtained and introduced into ABAQUS to simulate the experiment process. Research results show that the relative error of maximum axial deformation between the simulation using GB/7757 and the actual experiment is 34.7%, while that between the novel method and the actual experiment is 20.4%, having improved the accuracy by 14.3%, proving that the data processing method in this article can effectively improve the accuracy of finite element simulation for the core material and will contribute to the research on the performance of spherical blowout preventer.
Prospective study of the E-liac Stent Graft System in patients with common iliac artery aneurysms: 30-Day results
Authors: Brunkwall Jan , Vaquero Puerta Carlos , Heckenkamp Joerg , Egaña Barrenechea Jose Maria , Szopinski Piotr , Mertikian Gerard , Seifert Sven , Rümenapf Gerhard , Buz Semih , Assadian Afshin , Majd Payman , Mylonas Spyridon , Revilla Calavia Alvaro , Theis Thorsten , de Blas Bravo Mariano , Pleban Eliza , Schupp Jasper , Esche Mirko , Kocaer Cetin , Hirsch Kornelia , Oberhuber Alexander , Schäfer Jost-Philipp
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To study the safety and feasibility of the E-liac Stent Graft System® in patients with aorto/iliac aneurysms.

Methods

A prospective multicentric European registry of patients receiving the E-liac Stent Graft System® was conducted. Endpoints of the study included the technical success as well as periprocedural events and 30-day endoleaks, reinterventions, internal and external iliac artery patency and mortality.

Results

Between July 2014 and June 2016, a total of 45 patients (93% men, mean age 72 years, range 53–90 years) were enrolled at 11 sites in four European countries. Five patients received an isolated iliac treatment. Thirty-seven patients were treated with a combination of an abdominal stent graft and a unilateral E-liac and three in combination with bilateral E-liac. All E-liac Stent Grafts (48) were implanted in the intended position and the internal iliac arteries were successfully bridged. Two patients did not receive clinical success, due to endoleak type Ia of the aortic stent graft. At 30-day follow-up, clinical success rate was 96%. Three successful endovascular reinterventions were performed within the 30-day follow-up: one due to a type Ia endoleak in the common iliac artery, one due to type Ia endoleak of the aortic stent graft, and one due to bilateral lower limb claudication provoked by stent graft limb stenosis. At 30-day, a 100% survival rate and complete absence of pelvic or buttock ischemia/claudication were reported. Primary patency at 30 days was 100% for the internal iliac artery and 98% for the external iliac artery with an assisted patency of 100% in the latter.

Conclusions

The high clinical success rate, low rates of device-related reinterventions (2%), and excellent patency rate demonstrate the safety and feasibility of the E-liac Stent Graft System. Long-term results are awaited to state efficacy and durability. Clinical Trials.gov. Identifier no. NCT02209194.
Communication with invasive mechanically ventilated patients and the use of alternative devices: integrative review
Authors: Salem Aziza , Ahmad Muayyad M
Published: July 2018

Background

Communication with patients has always been a major concern in nursing care. Invasive mechanically ventilated (IMV) patients suffer from a communication barrier due to the presence of the endotracheal tube (ETT), which makes them unable to communicate through speech.

Aim

The purpose of this review is to examine available evidence regarding existing knowledge, skills, perceptions and barriers to IMV patient communication in order to guide the development of strategies that enhance effective communication with these patients.

Methods

A review of the published literature was conducted between January 2010 and December 2016.

Results

The literature support clear and concise communication in all areas of care, especially when patients suddenly become speechless. Invasive mechanically ventilated patients want to be heard, have control over their treatment and contribute to decisions concerning their health.

Conclusion

There is a need for the establishment of an effective nurse -patient communication strategy, which may include determining the mode of communication used by the patient, waiting and giving time to allow a patient to participate in the communication, confirming the message that was communicated with a patient himself/ herself, and the use of assistive and augmented communication to support comprehension when needed.
Beyond Class Stratification: The Rise of the Eclectic Music Consumer in the Modern Age
Authors: Nuccio Massimiliano , Guerzoni Marco , Katz-Gerro Tally
Published: July 2018

This article contributes to the literature on the association between class position and cultural tastes by analyzing a unique historical data set and asking whether there were significant class differences in the consumption of music in the 19th century. Archival data from a publisher in Milan are used to analyze the characteristics of customers who purchased sheet music between 1814 and 1823. To avoid contemporary depictions of cultural hierarchies (e.g. ‘highbrow’, ‘lowbrow’ and ‘omnivorous’ tastes), we offer a new method for considering both the quantitative and qualitative dimensions of music consumption. Considering both the aggregate level of music consumption and the evolution of individual patterns over time, we find little evidence that musical tastes were aligned with class position. This finding calls for more research on the origins of the strong link between social structure and cultural preferences in general, or between class position and musical tastes in particular, which we witness today.
An artificial neural network–based fall detection
Authors: Yoo SunGil , Oh Dongik
Published: July 2018

With the rise in the elderly population, the importance of care services for the elderly is also increasing. Among the care services, sudden fall detection is one of the most important services that the elderly need. The hip joints are prone to damage when they fall, and most of such injuries can lead to very severe consequences. In recent times, researches on fall detection have been very active. Fall detection by attaching an acceleration sensor to the waist of a person is popular and the detection rate is very high. However, when the fall is detected from a sensor attached to the wrist, which is more convenient as compared to the waist attachment, the detection accuracy is lower. To overcome the problem, in this article, we propose a system that distinguishes falls from the acceleration sensor attached to the wrist using an artificial neural network–based deep learning method. With the proposed method, we could detect the falls with a 100% accuracy in an experiment.
Analysis of variability of fractional anisotropy values at 3T using a novel diffusion tensor imaging phantom
Authors: Provenzale James M , Taylor Brian A , Wilde Elisabeth A , Boss Michael , Schneider Walter
Published: July 2018

We employed a novel diffusion tensor imaging phantom to study intra- and interscanner reproducibility on two 3T magnetic resonance (MR) scanners. Using a phantom containing thousands of hollow micron-size tubes in complex arrays, we performed two experiments using a b value of 1000 s/ms2 on two Siemens 3T Trio scanners. First, we performed 12-direction scans. Second, on one scanner, we performed two 64-direction protocols with different repetition times (TRs). We used a one-way analysis of variance to calculate differences between scanners and the Mann-Whitney U test to assess differences between 12-direction and 64-direction data. We calculated the coefficient of variation (CoV) for intrascanner and interscanner data. For 12-direction protocols, mean fractional anisotropy (FA) was 0.3003 for Scanner 1 (four scans) and 0.3094 for Scanner 2 (three scans). Lowest FA value on Scanner 1 was 2.56 standard deviations below the mean of Scanner 2. For 64-direction scans, mean FA was 0.2640 for 4000 ms TR and 0.2582 for 13,200 ms TR scans. For 12-direction scans, within-scanner CoV was 0.0326 for Scanner 1 and 0.0240 for Scanner 2; between-scanner CoV was 0.032. For 64-direction scans, CoV was 0.056 for TR 4000 ms and 0.0533 for TR 13,200 ms. The difference between median FA values of 12-direction and 64-direction scans was statistically significant ( p < 0.001). We found relatively good reproducibility on any single MR scanner. FA values from one scanner were sometimes significantly below the mean FA of another scanner, which has important implications for clinical use of DTI.
Cleavage structure and the demise of a dominant party: The role of national identity in the fall of the KMT in Taiwan
Authors: Batto Nathan F
Published: July 2018

The KMT’s electoral defeat in 2016 was not a case of a dominant party crashing to defeat due to mismanaging its factions or ineptly allocating state resources. This article illustrates a third path by which dominant parties can lose power. The KMT lost because the underlying cleavage structure slowly shifted and eroded the KMT’s political foundations over a quarter century. Indeed, the KMT had ceased to be a dominant party long before 2016; that election was merely a particularly dramatic step in what was actually a long decline. Taiwan has a single dominant political cleavage defined by national identity. Since the early 1990s, exclusive Taiwanese identity has gradually increased and eventually replaced both Taiwanese and Chinese identity as the majority disposition. As the cleavage line gradually shifted, the KMT tried to develop other appeals, but these were only successful as long as they did not directly clash with the dominant national identity cleavage.
From Social Isolation to Becoming an Advocate: Exploring Athletes’ Grief Discourse About Lived Concussion Experiences in Online Forums
Authors: Cassilo David , Sanderson Jimmy
Published: July 2018

Athletes who sustain concussions endure a variety of physical, mental, emotional, and social isolation effects as they rehabilitate. Accordingly, concussion recovery can induce grieving processes as athletes navigate the loss of athletic participation, social networks, and daily routine disruption. This research sought to gain a richer understanding of athletes’ lived experiences with concussions through grief discourse shared in online narratives. Through an analysis of athletes’ experiences shared via 58 blog posts on three concussion websites, the data reveal how athletes frame the losses that concussions bring into their lives, the subsequent feelings and expressions that result, along with how they eventually cope. The information disclosed in these online spaces can benefit parents, friends, coaches, and others to better understand concussion recovery, thereby enhancing their supportive communication and behaviors towards athletes as they rehabilitate from concussions.
Role of screw proximity in the fixation of transverse patellar fractures with screws and a wire
Authors: Chang Chih-Wei , Chen Yen-Nien , Li Chun-Ting , Chung Yu-Hsuan , Chang Chih-Han , Peng Yao-Te
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

Clinical and biomechanical studies have reported that using supportive screws and a wire instead of the common Kirschner wires for modified tension band wiring improves the stability of fractured patellae. However, the effect of screw proximity on the fixation of a fractured patella remains unclear. Therefore a numerical study was conducted to examine the effects of screw proximity on biomechanical responses in a simulated patellar fracture fixed using two parallel cannulated screws and anterior tension band wiring.

Methods:

A patellar model with a transverse fracture and loads simulating patellar tendon forces applied on the patella were used in the present simulation. The surgical fixation consisted of two 4.0-mm parallel partially threaded cannulated screws with a figure-of-eight tension band made using a 1.25-mm stainless steel wire. Biomechanical responses at two screw proximities, 5 and 10 mm from the leading edge of the patella, were investigated.

Results:

Superficial screw placement (5 mm) yielded higher stability, lower wire loads, and lower bone contact pressures than the deep placement (10 mm). The deep placement of screws exerted a higher load on the wire but a lower force on the screw than superficial placement did.

Conclusion:

This is the first numerical study to examine the effects of screw location on the fixation of a fractured patella using cannulated screws and tension band wiring. Considering the favorable biomechanical responses, superficial placement (5 mm below the leading edge of the patella) is recommended for screw insertion when treating a transverse fractured patella.