bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contextual Autocomplete: A Novel User Interface Using Machine Learning to Improve Ontology Usage and Structured Data Capture for Presenting Problems in the Emergency Department
Authors: Greenbaum Nathaniel R. , Jernite Yacine , Halpern Yoni , Calder Shelley , Nathanson Larry A. , Sontag David , Horng Steven
Published: April 2017

Objective

To determine the effect of contextual autocomplete, a user interface that uses machine learning, on the efficiency and quality of documentation of presenting problems (chief complaints) in the emergency department (ED).

Materials and Methods

We used contextual autocomplete, a user interface that ranks concepts by their predicted probability, to help nurses enter data about a patient’s reason for visiting the ED. Predicted probabilities were calculated using a previously derived model based on triage vital signs and a brief free text note. We evaluated the percentage and quality of structured data captured using a prospective before-and-after study design.

Results

A total of 279,231 patient encounters were analyzed. Structured data capture improved from 26.2% to 97.2% (p<0.0001). During the post-implementation period, presenting problems were more complete (3.35 vs 3.66; p=0.0004), as precise (3.59 vs. 3.74; p=0.1), and higher in overall quality (3.38 vs. 3.72; p=0.0002). Our system reduced the mean number of keystrokes required to document a presenting problem from 11.6 to 0.6 (p<0.0001), a 95% improvement.

Discussion

We have demonstrated a technique that captures structured data on nearly all patients. We estimate that our system reduces the number of man-hours required annually to type presenting problems at our institution from 92.5 hours to 4.8 hours.

Conclusion

Implementation of a contextual autocomplete system resulted in improved structured data capture, ontology usage compliance, and data quality.
Transaction formalism protocol tool in infrastructure management
Authors: Zeb Jehan , Froese Thomas
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an eight-step procedure – transaction formalism protocol (TFP) – in the area of infrastructure management. The proposed TFP is developed from two perspectives: TFP Specification (conceptual) and TFP Tool (application). This paper introduces the TFP Specification and discusses the TFP Tool in detail.

Design/methodology/approach

To develop the proposed TFP Tool, a five-step methodology was used: identify and select existing standards, benchmark standards, link and build on these standards, develop the proposed TFP Tool and validate the protocol.

Findings

The TFP Specification defines each step as a function for which inputs, controls, mechanisms, tools/techniques and outputs are specified. The TFP Tool comprises a set of forms and guidance that the transaction development personnel, including transaction analysts, transaction designers, software developers, process modellers and industry experts, will use to define transactions in infrastructure management domain.

Practical implications

The proposed TFP Tool enables transaction development personnel to define transactions effectively and efficiently for information and communication technology (ICT)-based solutions through defining information in a structured, consistent and easy way.

Originality/value

The TFP Tool was built on existing standards incorporating their shortcomings, including lack of a step-by-step procedure to help guide the personnel what to do next, lack of transaction monitoring and improvement steps and lack of standardised forms to collect information in a prescribed format for implementation in ICT-based collaboration systems. The proposed Tool was evaluated and found to be feasible, usable and useful.
Stock market reactions to layoff announcements – analysis of the renewable energy sector
Authors: Kunert Stephan , Schiereck Dirk , Welkoborsky Christopher
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study aims to analyze stock market reactions to layoff announcements in the renewable energy sector. The global renewable energy sector and most of the producers of wind and solar energy equipment are struggling. While changes in the regulation and in the promotion of energy production from renewable sources reduced the attractiveness of these technologies, many involved companies had to downsized their workforce to increase performance. The public often perceives these announcements as a way of increasing shareholder wealth at the cost of the employees. Support for this claim is often given in the form of isolated case study considerations. However, the case may be different for the renewable energy sector as changes in the overall institutional environment have sustainably deteriorated the prospects of this industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyses stock market reactions of 65 layoff announcements made by companies in the renewable energy industry in the years from 2005 to 2014. The reactions are measured by cumulative abnormal returns, which are obtained by using the event study methodology.

Findings

It shows a significantly negative market reaction to the announcement of a layoff plan on the event day. The findings are generally in line with our expectations and underline the negative perspectives of the sector from a capital market point of view and the declining importance of the sector with respect to employment numbers.

Originality/value

The results of this study are important for investors when estimating the capital market reactions to layoff announcements and when they form their own expectations regarding possible future layoff announcements. For the public, the results are of interest as the prejudice, that layoff plans are used to increase shareholder wealth, can be dismantled. The opposite is shown.
Stakeholder dialogue on Facebook
Authors: Martin Sebastian
Published: April 2017

Purpose

German, Austrian and Swiss utilities are confronted with radical changes in the European energy sector. A dialogue between the utility companies and their various groups of stakeholders is gaining importance. Increasingly, utilities create their own Facebook presence enabling such a dialogue. Still, to the best of the author’s knowledge there exists no research which explicitly focuses the stakeholder dialogue of German, Austrian or Swiss utilities on Facebook. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to
analyse Facebook as an instrument for dialogic communication in the energy sector.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was distributed to 1,280 German, Austrian and Swiss utilities, and 14 per cent of the utilities completed the survey, including 130 German, 19 Austrian and 25 Swiss companies. The participating utilities are primarily in public ownership.

Findings

The Facebook conversation of utility companies and their stakeholders meets the basic requirements of a virtual stakeholder dialogue. Nevertheless, less than half of the companies perceive their current stakeholder conversation on Facebook as truly interactive. Therefore, even if the basic requirements of a dialogue are met, most companies still do not seem to fully use the dialogue potential of Facebook.

Originality/value

This study provides first insights into virtual stakeholder dialogues in the energy sector. A suggestion to operationalise such a virtual dialogue is provided. Both operationalisation as well as the empirical results help researchers and practitioners to better understand virtual stakeholder dialogues.
The combined effect of product returns experience and switching costs on B2B customer re-purchase intent
Authors: Russo Ivan , Confente Ilenia , Gligor David M. , Cobelli Nicola
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study investigated business-to-business (B2B) repeated purchase intent and its relationships with customer value and customer satisfaction. Additionally, it explored the link between willingness to purchase again, switching costs and product returns management. Modern customers are more likely to switch suppliers; however, previous research suggests that this behaviour can be attenuated by a robust returns management experience. The purpose of this study was to provide a revised model of B2B repeated purchase intent that integrates the concept of product returns management and switching costs with existing B2B customer repurchase intent models.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a qualitative inquiry based on semi-structured interviews was conducted to test and develop a quantitative survey. Then a survey was then sent to business owners operating in the audiology industry. Finally, there were 317 responses.

Findings

The authors reveal the complex relationship between returns management and repeated purchase intent. Specifically, the authors’ results indicate that the effect of product returns on repurchase intent is opposite to the effect of customer value, depending on the value of customer value. The authors’ findings indicate that even when switching costs are low, firms can positively impact the intent to purchase again in the future if they increase the level of customer satisfaction. In addition, the authors’ findings indicate that in the context of B2B a high/low level of customer satisfaction does not trigger a positive effect of managing product returns on repurchase intent.

Originality/value

This study was the first to introduce the concept of product returns management to research on B2B repurchase intent.
Macroeconomic impact on trade show goals
Authors: Adams Russell , Coyle Tom , Downey Clara , Lovett Marvin
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to determine what impact an economic recession and recovery had on the selling and non-selling activities of trade show attendees and the subsequent marketing tactic changes.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples were collected from an international trade show during the recession (2009) and during the recovery (2013). The responses were analyzed using ANOVA and structural equation modeling to establish significant changes in activities between the periods and to provide a factor model.

Findings

Direct selling goals do not change during economic conditions. Intangible priorities increase during recessions.

Research limitations/implications

The trade show is limited to one location; therefore, is not a representative sample. Questionnaire design issues did not allow the linking of survey respondents to specific companies; therefore, is not a true longitudinal study.

Practical implications

Companies should focus on prospecting, enhancing corporate image and morale, testing and introducing new products and gathering intelligence during economic downturns. Conversely, companies should focus on sales and servicing clients during economic recovery.

Originality/value

This is the first research to study the macroeconomic impact on marketing tactics over multiple periods in an international setting. Several accepted selling and non-selling instrument goals are measured in an international context. A new model for structuring trade show goals is developed.
Crossing the border: changes in self and brands
Authors: Guzmán Francisco , Paswan Audhesh K. , Fabrize Robert O.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Migration shapes our societies, values, markets, consumption and even the notion of self. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of migration in the perception-of-self and if differences in the perception-of-self influence the perception of brands from the immigrants’ home country – which immigrants often use as a cultural anchor.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Aaker’s (1997) brand personality scale as a measure of brand image, the authors gather data from Mexico City and the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area. Respondents to an interviewer-administered questionnaire were asked to evaluate the brand image of two TV media Mexican brands and their perception-of-self based on Aaker’s 42 brand personality traits.

Findings

The results of this paper indicate that the perception-of-self is different for Latinos residing in their home country and immigrant Latinos living abroad. Further, these differences in the perception-of-self appear to influence the way immigrants perceive brands from their home country.

Practical implications

Brands from emerging markets making inroads into developed markets, targeting their country’s diasporas as their first target group, should understand whether people’s perception-of-self differs significantly from their home country counterparts, the direction of such a difference and the effect of such differences on the perceptions of brands from their home country.

Originality/value

This paper is a contribution to the brand personality, brand image and self literature and presents an innovative approach to analyzing the possible brand image implications of the expansion of multinational companies and immigration.
Distinguishing homicide, violent sexual, and violent juvenile offending
Authors: Baglivio Michael T. , Wolff Kevin T.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine temperament differences, notably effortful control and negative emotionality, and correlates that distinguish between homicide, violent sexual and other violent juvenile offenders. Exploring heterogeneity among violent offenders is relevant to intervention strategies and policy implications.

Design/methodology/approach

Demographic measures, temperament constructs and individual risk factor indicators were assessed across 30,303 violent juvenile offenders (including 397 homicide offenders) in Florida to assess their ability to distinguish among violent juvenile offender subgroups.

Findings

Analyses demonstrated temperament constructs distinguish among classifications of violent juvenile offenders with effortful control differentiating homicide and violent sexual offenders from other violent offenders, and negative emotionality distinguishing violent sexual from other violent offenders, with youth having greater negative emotionality and less effortful control being non-sexual violent offenders. Homicide offenders were more likely to be older, male and had histories of gang membership and weapon/firearm offending than other violent offenders, and evidenced greater negative emotionality than violent sexual offenders.

Originality/value

The differences across violent youthful offender subtypes suggest heterogeneity among violent offenders with distinct correlates more predictive of some subtypes than others. Additionally, the temperament constructs of effortful control and negative emotionality are useful in distinguishing violent offender subtypes, which points toward differing intervention/treatment strategies.
The interplay between early language and temperamental difficulties in the prediction of severe antisocial behavior among males
Authors: Jackson Dylan B.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether early language deficits increase the risk of severe antisocial behavior among male children, and whether this association varies as a function of negative temperament during infancy.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are derived from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort. Both survey methods and direct observations were employed to obtain the data. Logistic regression was used to examine the research questions at hand.

Findings

Male children with oral vocabulary and grammatical/syntactic deficits during the toddler years exhibited more frequent antisocial behavior across home and school settings during kindergarten, relative to boys without language deficits. However, this relationship was limited to males who manifested negative temperament/affect during their infancy, as reported on by both parents and independent raters.

Originality/value

Prior research on language, temperament, and antisocial behavior has generally overlooked the potential for these early-life risk factors for subsequent offending to interact with each other. The findings of the present study suggest that early intervention and prevention efforts should account for ways in which individual temperamental differences can structure behavioral responses to cognitive challenges.
Juvenile homicide offender recidivism
Authors: Trulson Chad , Caudill Jon
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and explain the recidivism outcomes of a large cohort of juvenile homicide offenders three years following their release from institutional confinement.

Design/methodology/approach

Retrospective data were utilized to examine demographic, background, and institutional behavior variables on post-release recidivism of 247 juvenile homicide offenders. Analyses distinguish between capital and non-capital juvenile homicide offenders.

Findings

Descriptive analyses demonstrated a 50 percent recidivism rate among the sample of juvenile homicide offenders. Bivariate analyses revealed few significant differences between capital and non-capital homicide offending juveniles. Logistic regression analyses revealed that youth who were neglected prior to state institutionalization were significantly more likely to recidivate. Logistic regression also revealed that longer lengths of incarceration were associated with decreased odds of recidivism, while participating in assaultive behaviors against peers while confined aggravated the odds of recidivism.

Research limitations/implications

Implications related to the role that previous neglect, incarceration time, and institutional behavior can inform policymakers and practitioners on issues related to the treatment of juvenile homicide offenders while confined, and the impact that incarceration time and institutional behavior mean for post-release recidivism risk.

Originality/value

Little research has assessed the recidivism outcomes of juvenile homicide offenders, especially with a larger sample size. None have examined the differences between capital and non-capital homicide offending juveniles. As juvenile jurisdictions continue to retain more homicide offending juveniles (as opposed to their removal to adult systems), there is value to the research to inform policy and practice with such an enriched and problematic groups of offenders.
Internationalization of firms: revitalizing the board of directors after a cross-border acquisition
Authors: Pisano Vincenzo , Faraci Rosario , Cabiddu Francesca , Picone Pasquale Massimo
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to show the importance of introducing an integration manager (i.e. an executive position used to channel the acquiring firm’s course of action and strengthen the success of a post-acquisition integration process) within the acquiring firm’s board of directors.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a theoretical paper that introduces the integration manager within the board of privately held firms going internationally via acquisitions and serving as an “out-insider” director able to balance the conflicting demands of the previously separated entities during their integration process. The authors present an explanatory case study that empirically contributes to the board of directors’ design for internationalization.

Findings

The authors posit that the integration manager serves as an “out-insider” director of the board for privately held firms, possessed by large-block shareholders, going internationally via acquisitions, providing the necessary expertise and knowledge of the target firm’s products and industry.

Originality/value

The provided study aims to show that international acquisitions, even though apparently less risky than greenfield investments, may require additional neutral information flow – both within the due-diligence process and the post-acquisition integration – that only outsiders possess. Such an outsider has been individuated in the integration manager whose crucial role focuses on smoothing the pre- and post-acquisition integration processes.
Building employability through graduate development programmes
Authors: Clarke Marilyn
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Graduate development programmes are a well-established strategy for recruiting graduates into the sector at the start of a lifetime public service career. There are indications, however, that public sector careers are becoming less secure and less long term in keeping with overall career trends across all sectors, a trend that has seen the emergence of employment contracts based on employability rather than job security. The purpose of this paper is to explore a graduate development programme offered by a state-based Australian public sector organisation to identify the extent to which it reflects and supports the shift to an employability-based contract from the perspective of programme participants.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 participants from three intakes of a public sector graduate development programme. Data were analysed through identification of first- and second-order themes as well as cross-case comparison.

Findings

Findings indicate that the one-year development programme partially supports an employability-based contract. The organisation could not promise ongoing employment and job security but did assist participants to develop skills and competencies for the future through its formal training and development programme. Work unit support for employability was, however, much more variable and depended to a large extent on line managers.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in a single organisation and only included current and past programme participants who were still employed in the public sector.

Practical implications

The success of the programme was largely dependent on job placement and level of line manager support. Addressing these areas through better programme design and management can support the development of future leaders through opportunities for enhanced employability.

Originality/value

The study extends current research on employability by exploring how a public sector organisation provides support for graduates in a developmental programme from a participant perspective.
Economic burden of psoriatic patients in Japan: Analysis from a single outpatient clinic
Authors: Takahashi Hidetoshi , Satoh Katsuhiko , Takagi Akiyoshi , Iizuka Hajime
Published: April 2017

Topical and systemic agents have dramatically improved the treatment efficacy of psoriasis. Few reports, however, exist describing the economic burden in Japanese psoriatic patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the total costs as well as cost versus efficacy of topical and systemic treatments of psoriatic patients under the Japanese health insurance system. The retrospective study was performed from the database of our clinic, which is located in Hokkaido Prefecture. Cost and effectiveness of psoriatic patients were evaluated during the 12‐month period from April 2015 to March 2016. Data were collected and calculated for the total cost per year, treatment efficacy and cost versus efficacy. The mean total cost of topical corticosteroid treatment was ¥18 184/year and was lowest among the treatments. The systemic treatment with biologics was most expensive and the costs were over ¥400 000/year. Among the topical treatments, calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate was most expensive (¥34 693/year). However, cost versus efficacy was not significantly different from that of topical corticosteroid treatments. The cost of secukinumab was highest among all the treatments (¥631 600/year). However, treatment day per cost was lowest of all the psoriasis treatments. Biologics showed the highest cost than topical or systemic treatments. However, they showed most marked efficacy in terms of improving the psoriatic skin lesions.
Magazine Influence on Cartridge Case Ejection Patterns with Glock Pistols
Authors: Kerkhoff Wim , Alberink Ivo , Mattijssen Erwin J.A.T.
Published: April 2017

In this study, the cartridge case ejection patterns of six different Glock model pistols (one specimen per model) were compared under three conditions: firing with a loaded magazine, an empty magazine, and without magazine. The distances, covered by the ejected cartridge cases given these three conditions, were compared for each of the six models. A significant difference was found between the groups of data for each of the tested specimens. This indicates that it is important that, to reconstruct a shooting scene incident based on the ejection patterns of a pistol, test shots are fired with the same pistol type and under the correct magazine condition.
Review article: Workplace violence in the emergency department: A systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Nikathil Shradha , Olaussen Alexander , Gocentas Robert A , Symons Evan , Mitra Biswadev
Published: April 2017

Patient or visitor perpetrated workplace violence (WPV) has been reported to be a common occurrence within the ED. No universal definition of violence or recording of such events exists. In addition ED staff are often reluctant to report violent incidents. The true incidence of WPV is therefore unclear. This systematic review aimed to quantify WPV in EDs. The association of WPV to drug and alcohol exposure was explored. The databases MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and the Cochrane Library were searched from their commencement to 10 March 2016. MeSH terms and text words for ED, violence and aggression were combined. A meta‐analysis was conducted on the primary outcome variable‐proportion of violent patients among total ED presentations. A secondary meta‐analysis used studies reporting on proportion of drug and alcohol affected patients occurring within the violent population. The search yielded a total of 8720 records. A total of 7235 were unique and underwent abstract screening. A total of 22 studies were deemed relevant according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Retrospective study design predominated, analysing mainly security records and incident reports. The rates of violence from individual studies ranged from 1 incident to 172 incidents per 10 000 presentations. The pooled incidence suggests there are 36 violent patients for every 10 000 presentations to the ED (95% confidence interval 0.0030–0.0043). WPV in the ED was commonly reported. There is wide heterogeneity across the study methodology, definitions and rates. More standardised recording and reporting may inform preventive measures and highlight effective management strategies.
Evolution of Taste Compounds of Dezhou‐Braised Chicken During Cooking Evaluated by Chemical Analysis and an Electronic Tongue System
Authors: Liu Dengyong , Li Shengjie , Wang Nan , Deng Yajun , Sha Lei , Gai Shengmei , Liu Huan , Xu Xinglian
Published: April 2017

This paper aimed to study the time course changes in taste compounds of Dezhou‐braised chicken during the entire cooking process mainly consisting of deep‐frying, high‐temperature boiling, and low‐temperature braising steps. For this purpose, meat samples at different processing stages were analyzed for 5′‐nucleotides and free amino acids, and were also subjected to electronic tongue measurements. Results showed that IMP, Glu, Lys, and sodium chloride were the main compounds contributing to the taste attributes of the final product. IMP and Glu increased in the boiling step and remained unchanged in the following braising steps. Meanwhile, decrease in Lys content and increase in sodium chloride content were observed over time in both boiling and braising steps. Intensities for bitterness, saltiness, and Aftertaste‐B obtained from the electronic tongue analysis were correlated with the concentrations of these above chemical compounds. Therefore, the electronic tongue system could be applied to evaluate the taste development of Dezhou‐braised chicken during processing.
Processes to Preserve Spice and Herb Quality and Sensory Integrity During Pathogen Inactivation
Authors: Duncan Susan E. , Moberg Kayla , Amin Kemia N. , Wright Melissa , Newkirk Jordan J. , Ponder Monica A. , Acuff Gary R. , Dickson James S.
Published: April 2017

Selected processing methods, demonstrated to be effective at reducing Salmonella, were assessed to determine if spice and herb quality was affected. Black peppercorn, cumin seed, oregano, and onion powder were irradiated to a target dose of 8 kGy. Two additional processes were examined for whole black peppercorns and cumin seeds: ethylene oxide (EtO) fumigation and vacuum assisted‐steam (82.22 °C, 7.5 psia). Treated and untreated spices/herbs were compared (visual, odor) using sensory similarity testing protocols (α = 0.20; β = 0.05; proportion of discriminators: 20%) to determine if processing altered sensory quality. Analytical assessment of quality (color, water activity, and volatile chemistry) was completed. Irradiation did not alter visual or odor sensory quality of black peppercorn, cumin seed, or oregano but created differences in onion powder, which was lighter (higher L*) and more red (higher a*) in color, and resulted in nearly complete loss of measured volatile compounds. EtO processing did not create detectable odor or appearance differences in black peppercorn; however visual and odor sensory quality differences, supported by changes in color (higher b*; lower L*) and increased concentrations of most volatiles, were detected for cumin seeds. Steam processing of black peppercorn resulted in perceptible odor differences, supported by increased concentration of monoterpene volatiles and loss of all sesquiterpenes; only visual differences were noted for cumin seed. An important step in process validation is the verification that no effect is detectable from a sensory perspective.
How Do Indifferent Voters Decide? The Political Importance of Implicit Attitudes
Authors: Ryan Timothy J.
Published: April 2017

A hallmark finding in the study of public opinion is that many citizens approach the political realm with one‐sided attitudes that color their judgments, making attitude change difficult. This finding highlights the importance of citizens with weak prior attitudes, since they might represent a segment of the electorate that is more susceptible to influence. The judgment processes of citizens with weak attitudes, however, are poorly understood. Drawing from dual‐process models in psychology, I test the idea that citizens with weak explicit attitudes rely on implicit attitudes as they render political judgments. I find support for this conjecture in experimental and observational data. There are two main contributions. First, I show that an important and understudied segment of the electorate arrives at political decisions via automatic (but nonetheless predictable) mental processes. Second, I characterize the conditions under which implicit political attitudes matter more and less.
Drug interactions and safety profiles with concomitant use of caspofungin and calcineurin inhibitors in allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Nishimoto Mitsutaka , Koh Hideo , Tokuwame Atsushi , Makuuchi Yosuke , Kuno Masatomo , Takakuwa Teruhito , Okamura Hiroshi , Koh Shiro , Yoshimura Takuro , Nanno Satoru , Nakamae Mika , Hirose Asao , Nakashima Yasuhiro , Nakane Takahiko , Hino Masayuki , Nakamae Hirohisa
Published: April 2017

Aim

Small‐scale clinical studies have reported on drug interactions between caspofungin (CPFG) and calcineurin inhibitors in healthy subjects; however, little is known about these interactions in allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) patients.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed the drug interactions and safety profiles in allo‐HCT recipients treated concomitantly with CPFG and calcineurin inhibitors.

Results

Ninety‐one consecutive cases were evaluated. There were no statistically significant differences in the plasma concentration/dose (C/D) ratios of tacrolimus (TAC) in 34 patients before and after co‐administration with CPFG (median: 575.6–672.4, P = 0.200). In contrast, the median C/D ratio of cyclosporin A (CsA) in 16 patients was significantly elevated after co‐administration with CPFG (median: 62.8–74.9, P = 0.016). There were no serious adverse effects on liver or renal function associated with the therapy.

Conclusions

Our data show that CPFG did not affect the pharmacokinetics of TAC and that it could mildly increase CsA blood concentrations in allo‐HCT patients.
Pointwise Influence Matrices for Functional-Response Regression
Authors: Reiss Philip T. , Huang Lei , Wu Pei-Shien , Chen Huaihou , Colcombe Stan
Published: April 2017

We extend the notion of an influence or hat matrix to regression with functional responses and scalar predictors. For responses depending linearly on a set of predictors, our definition is shown to reduce to the conventional influence matrix for linear models. The pointwise degrees of freedom, the trace of the pointwise influence matrix, are shown to have an adaptivity property that motivates a two-step bivariate smoother for modeling nonlinear dependence on a single predictor. This procedure adapts to varying complexity of the nonlinear model at different locations along the function, and thereby achieves better performance than competing tensor product smoothers in an analysis of the development of white matter microstructure in the brain.
Incorporating Covariates Into Integrated Factor Analysis of Multi-View Data
Authors: Li Gen , Jung Sungkyu
Published: April 2017

In modern biomedical research, it is ubiquitous to have multiple data sets measured on the same set of samples from different views (i.e., multi-view data). For example, in genetic studies, multiple genomic data sets at different molecular levels or from different cell types are measured for a common set of individuals to investigate genetic regulation. Integration and reduction of multi-view data have the potential to leverage information in different data sets, and to reduce the magnitude and complexity of data for further statistical analysis and interpretation. In this article, we develop a novel statistical model, called supervised integrated factor analysis (SIFA), for integrative dimension reduction of multi-view data while incorporating auxiliary covariates. The model decomposes data into joint and individual factors, capturing the joint variation across multiple data sets and the individual variation specific to each set, respectively. Moreover, both joint and individual factors are partially informed by auxiliary covariates via nonparametric models. We devise a computationally efficient Expectation–Maximization (EM) algorithm to fit the model under some identifiability conditions. We apply the method to the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) data, and provide new insights into the variation decomposition of gene expression in multiple tissues. Extensive simulation studies and an additional application to a pediatric growth study demonstrate the advantage of the proposed method over competing methods.
On the Multiple Imputation Variance Estimator for Control-Based and Delta-Adjusted Pattern Mixture Models
Authors: Tang Yongqiang
Published: April 2017

Control-based pattern mixture models (PMM) and delta-adjusted PMMs are commonly used as sensitivity analyses in clinical trials with non-ignorable dropout. These PMMs assume that the statistical behavior of outcomes varies by pattern in the experimental arm in the imputation procedure, but the imputed data are typically analyzed by a standard method such as the primary analysis model. In the multiple imputation (MI) inference, Rubin's variance estimator is generally biased when the imputation and analysis models are uncongenial. One objective of the article is to quantify the bias of Rubin's variance estimator in the control-based and delta-adjusted PMMs for longitudinal continuous outcomes. These PMMs assume the same observed data distribution as the mixed effects model for repeated measures (MMRM). We derive analytic expressions for the MI treatment effect estimator and the associated Rubin's variance in these PMMs and MMRM as functions of the maximum likelihood estimator from the MMRM analysis and the observed proportion of subjects in each dropout pattern when the number of imputations is infinite. The asymptotic bias is generally small or negligible in the delta-adjusted PMM, but can be sizable in the control-based PMM. This indicates that the inference based on Rubin's rule is approximately valid in the delta-adjusted PMM. A simple variance estimator is proposed to ensure asymptotically valid MI inferences in these PMMs, and compared with the bootstrap variance. The proposed method is illustrated by the analysis of an antidepressant trial, and its performance is further evaluated via a simulation study.
Bayesian Regression for Group Testing Data
Authors: McMahan Christopher S. , Tebbs Joshua M. , Hanson Timothy E. , Bilder Christopher R.
Published: April 2017

Group testing involves pooling individual specimens (e.g., blood, urine, swabs, etc.) and testing the pools for the presence of a disease. When individual covariate information is available (e.g., age, gender, number of sexual partners, etc.), a common goal is to relate an individual's true disease status to the covariates in a regression model. Estimating this relationship is a nonstandard problem in group testing because true individual statuses are not observed and all testing responses (on pools and on individuals) are subject to misclassification arising from assay error. Previous regression methods for group testing data can be inefficient because they are restricted to using only initial pool responses and/or they make potentially unrealistic assumptions regarding the assay accuracy probabilities. To overcome these limitations, we propose a general Bayesian regression framework for modeling group testing data. The novelty of our approach is that it can be easily implemented with data from any group testing protocol. Furthermore, our approach will simultaneously estimate assay accuracy probabilities (along with the covariate effects) and can even be applied in screening situations where multiple assays are used. We apply our methods to group testing data collected in Iowa as part of statewide screening efforts for chlamydia, and we make user-friendly R code available to practitioners.
Nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide: the gasotransmitter paradigm of the vascular system
Authors: Cirino Giuseppe , Vellecco Valentina , Bucci Mariarosaria
Published: April 2017

There are several reviews on NO and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and their role in vascular diseases in the current relevant literature. The aim of this review is to discuss, within the limits of present knowledge, the interconnection between these two gasotransmitters in vascular function. In particular, the review focuses on the role played by the balance between the NO and H2S pathways in either physiological or pathological conditions. The distinction between physiology and pathology has been made in order to dissect the molecular basis of this crosstalk, highlighting how and if this balance varies, depending upon the vascular status. Perspectives and possible novel therapeutic approaches are also discussed.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Targeting Inflammation to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.22/issuetoc and http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bcp.v82.4/issuetoc
Antitumor activity and pharmacologic characterization of the depsipeptide analog as a novel histone deacetylase/ phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase dual inhibitor
Authors: Saijo Ken , Imai Hiroo , Chikamatsu Sonoko , Narita Koichi , Katoh Tadashi , Ishioka Chikashi
Published: April 2017

Histone deacetylase (HDAC)/phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) dual inhibition is a promising strategy for the treatment of intractable cancers because of the advantages of overcoming potential resistance and showing synergistic effects. Therefore, development of anHDAC/PI3K dual inhibitor is reasonably attractive. Romidepsin (FK228, depsipeptide) is a potentHDACinhibitor. We previously reported that depsipeptide and its analogs have an additional activity asPI3K inhibitors and are defined asHDAC/PI3K dual inhibitors. Subsequently, we identifiedFK‐A11 as the most potent analog and reported its biochemical, biological, and structural properties as anHDAC/PI3K dual inhibitor. In this study, we reveal thein vitroandin vivoefficacy ofFK‐A11 inHT1080 fibrosarcoma andPC3 prostate cancer cell xenograft mouse models.FK‐A11 showedin vivoantitumor activity by both i.v. and i.p. administration in a dose‐dependent manner. In both xenograft models,FK‐A11 showed superior antitumor effects compared to other depsipeptide analogs in accordance within vitroanti‐cell proliferation effects and the potency ofHDAC/PI3K dual inhibition. In addition, we showed evidence ofHDAC/PI3K dual inhibition accompanying antitumor efficacy in xenograft tumor tissues by immunohistochemistry. We also detailed pharmacokinetic characterization ofFK‐A11 in mice. These findings will be essential for guiding further preclinical and clinical studies.
Role of hepatic resection in patients with intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter study from Japan
Authors: Tada Toshifumi , Kumada Takashi , Toyoda Hidenori , Tsuji Kunihiko , Hiraoka Atsushi , Itobayashi Ei , Nouso Kazuhiro , Kariyama Kazuya , Ishikawa Toru , Hirooka Masashi , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: April 2017

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is recommended for patients with intermediate‐stage (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer criteria B [BCLC‐B]) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, patients with BCLC‐B HCC can differ in background factors related to hepatic function, as well as tumor size and number. In the present study, we clarified the role of hepatic resection in patients with BCLC‐B HCC. A total of 489 BCLC‐B HCC patients with Child–Pugh class A disease initially treated with hepatic resection or TACE were included. After propensity score matching (n = 264), hepatic resection (hazard ratio [HR], 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35–0.91) was independently associated with survival in the multivariate analysis. We then divided patients into two groups based on the results of statistical analysis. There were 170 patients treated with resection and 319 with TACE. Child–Pugh score and number of tumors (cut‐off, three tumors) were independently associated with type of HCC treatment in the multivariate analysis. We then divided patients in Group A (Child–Pugh score of 5 and ≤3 tumors; n = 186) and Group B (Child–Pugh score of 6 or ≥4 tumors; n = 303). In Group A, cumulative survival was significantly higher in the hepatic resection group than in the TACE group (P = 0.014). In Cox proportional hazards models, hepatic resection (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.23–0.64) was independently associated with survival in Group A patients. In Group B, treatment status was not associated with overall survival. Hepatic resection should be considered in patients with a Child–Pugh score of 5 and ≤3 tumors, despite having BCLC‐B HCC.
Real‐world stroke prevention strategies in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in patients with renal impairment
Authors: Mert Kadir U. , Mert Gurbet Ö. , Başaran Özcan , Beton Osman , Dogan Volkan , Tekinalp Mehmet , Aykan Ahmet Ç. , Kalaycıoğlu Ezgi , Bolat Ismail , Taşar Onur , Şafak Özgen , Kalçık Macit , Yaman Mehmet , Kırma Cevat , Biteker Murat ,   RAMSES investigators
Published: April 2017

Background

The data regarding stroke prevention strategies in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) are limited especially in patients with renal impairment (RI). We sought to evaluate management dilemmas in patients with concurrent NVAF and RI in RAMSES (ReAl‐life Multicenter Survey Evaluating Stroke Prevention Strategies inTurkey) study.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, multicenter, nation‐wide registry in NVAF patients in outpatient cardiology clinics. All consecutive patients with NVAF were enrolled in RAMSES study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02344901). The baseline data were collected. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated by Cockcroft–Gault equation.

Results

A total number of 6273 patients from 29 provinces of Turkey with the contribution of 83 investigators were enrolled to the study. Of the study population, 1964(33%) patients had RI which was defined as GFR < 60 mL/min. Patients with RI had significantly higher CHA2DS2VASc and HAS‐BLED scores compared to those without RI (3·9 ± 1·5 vs. 2·9 ± 1·5, and 2·0 ± 1 vs. 1·4 ± 1; P < 0·001). Prior history of major bleeding (6·9% vs. 4·1%, P < 0·001) and stroke (16·2% vs. 11·8%, P < 0·001) was significantly higher among individuals with concomitant RI and NVAF. Although RI patients had a higher risk for thromboembolism, number of the patients who did not receive any anticoagulant therapy was higher in patients with RI than without RI (30·1 vs. 26·4%, P = 0·003).

Conclusion

RAMSES study showed that one‐third of the patients with NVAF had RI in the real‐world setting. Although it is mandatory in most of the patients with concomitant NVAF and RI, nearly one‐third of these patients did not receive any anticoagulant therapy.
Observed survival benefit of mild therapeutic hypothermia reanalysing the Circulation Improving Resuscitation Care trial
Authors: Nürnberger Alexander , Herkner Harald , Sterz Fritz , Olsen Jan‐Aage , Lozano Michael , van Grunsven Pierre M. , Lerner E. Brooke , Persse David , Malzer Reinhard , Brouwer Marc A. , Westfall Mark , Souders Chris M. , Travis David T. , Herken Ulrich R. , Wik Lars
Published: April 2017

Background

Mild therapeutic hypothermia is argued being beneficial for outcome after cardiac arrest.

Materials and methods

Retrospective analysis of Circulation Improving Resuscitation Care (CIRC) trial data to assess if therapeutic cooling to 33 ± 1 °C core temperature had an association with survival. Of 4231 adult, out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrests of presumed cardiac origin initially enrolled, eligibility criteria for therapeutic hypothermia were met by 1812. Logistic regression was undertaken in a stepwise fashion to account for the impact on outcome of each significant difference and for the variable of interest between the groups.

Results

Out‐of‐ and in‐hospital cooled were 263 (15%), only after admission cooled were 230 (13%) and not cooled were 357 (20%) patients. The group cooled out of‐ and in hospital had 98 (37%) survivors as compared to the groups cooled in hospital only [80 (35%)] and of those not cooled [68 (19%)]. After adjusting for known covariates (sex, age, witnessed cardiac arrest, no‐ and low‐flow time, shockable initial rhythm, random allocation, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and percutaneous coronary intervention), the odds ratio for survival comparing no cooling to out‐of‐ plus in‐hospital cooling was 0·53 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0·46–0·61, P < 0·001], and comparing to in‐hospital cooling only was 0·67 (95% CI: 0·50–0·89, P = 0·006).

Conclusion

Mild therapeutic hypothermia initiated out of hospital and/or in hospital was associated with improved survival within this secondary analysis of the CIRC cohort compared to no therapeutic hypothermia.