bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Has Public Policy Exceeded our Knowledge Base? This is a Two-Part Question
Authors: Howell Kenneth W. , Nelson Karna L. , Kauffman James M.
Published: March 2018

This article is presented as a reaction to the Nelson, Roberts, Mathur, and Rutherford (1999) article as well as the other five follow-up articles appearing in this Forum series. The purpose of the presentation is to expand the focus of the series by widening the discussion of “policy” as originally raised in the article by Nelson and colleagues. Two critical concerns were raised in the series: concerns about the research base for functional assessment and concerns about the practicality of implementing functional assessment. Each of these concerns is addressed within the context of speculation about the possible functions that may have been served by mandating the use of functional assessment within the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It is suggested that the nature of public policy may, at times, deserve as much of our attention as research findings.
The Role of Science in Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Kauffman James M. , Robb Charles S.
Published: March 2018

A scientific, rule-governed approach to solving problems suggests assumptions that (a) we need different rules for different purposes, (b) all rules are grounded in values, (c) the origins and appropriate application of particular rules are often misunderstood, (d) personal experience and the popularity of ideas are often unreliable, and (e) all truths are tentative. Each assumption is related to behavioral disorders, and a rule-governed approach to problems of living is contrasted to the approach of mules.
Emotional and Behavioral Disorders in the New Millennium: The Future is Now
Authors: Landrum Timothy J. , Tankersley Melody
Published: March 2018

In assessing the prospects for the future of the field of behavioral disorders, we examine our current knowledge base related to two critical areas: (1) early intervention for prevention and (2) inclusion and the preparation of teachers. We consider these against the backdrop of two issues that have limited our progress: (1) establishing appropriate expectations and realistic outcomes for students with emotional and behavioral disorders and (2) the changing relationship between science and education. We conclude with several suggestions for directions in which movement may hold promise for the future of our field. In particular, we call for action based upon our current knowledge and increased attention to scientific, data-based decision making in the areas of early intervention, teacher preparation, and the establishment of realistic expectations.
Children and Youth with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: A Concerned Look at the Present and a Hopeful Eye for the Future
Authors: Simpson Richard L.
Published: March 2018

This article presents a perspective on several current issues perceived to have a significant impact on the education of children and youth identified as having emotional and behavioral disorders (E/BD). Included in the discussion are thoughts related to use of best-practice methods by teachers and other practitioners; issues associated with placement, including increased reliance on alternative schools and other nontraditional settings; and job expectations and working conditions of teachers who work with troubled students.
Longitudinal Research and Functional Behavioral Assessment Issues
Authors: Walker Hill M. , Sprague Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2018

The role of functional behavioral assessment is contrasted with a longitudinal risk factors exposure model for understanding and predicting maladaptive behavioral outcomes in applied settings, and the strengths and weaknesses of each approach are discussed. The functional behavioral assessment approach is viewed as having great value for analyzing and understanding the social contingencies and contextual factors that sustain maladaptive behavior within specific settings. The risk factors exposure model is more macro in nature and is useful for understanding and predicting the development of maladaptive behavior across time and settings in a longitudinal, developmental sense. The integration of the two approaches is viewed as necessary in order to gain a comprehensive, complete understanding of the origins and dynamics of maladaptive behavior patterns among at-risk children and youth.
African-American Males and Serious Emotional Disturbance: Some Personal Perspectives
Authors: Cartledge Gwendolyn
Published: March 2018

With numbers that exceed their proportions in the general school population, African-American males are the number one candidate for placement in programs for students with serious emotional disturbance (SED) and thus experience the poorest school outcomes. Much attention has been given to disproportionality, which continues to be a thorny and intractable issue. This brief article urges educators to focus more attention on appropriate and successful interventions within a continuum of educational services for this population.
The History of Special Provision for Pupils with Emotional or Behavioral Difficulties in England: What Has Proved Effective?
Authors: Cole Ted , Visser John
Published: March 2018

This article asks who the children with emotional or behavioral disorders (E/BD) are in England and what programs have evolved in the 19th and 20th centuries to address their needs. Services have been provided by different agencies adopting various day and residential approaches, both proving of lasting value in some circumstances. Theoretical battles, notably between supporters of a medical approach, which concentrates on so-called within-child factors ahead of formal education, and those of the now-dominant educational model, have punctuated the past century. Too often academic standards have been low, but where they have been high this is probably explained by the human factor rather than the theoretical or physical model in place. However, effective staff have tended to operate from an essentially humanistic standpoint.
Prevalence of Learning Disabilities at Enrollment in Special Education Students with Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Glassberg Leslie A. , Hooper Stephen R. , Mattison Richard E.
Published: March 2018

The prevalence of learning disabilities (LD) was studied in a sample of 233 students aged 6 to 16 years who were newly identified with behavioral disorders (BD). Using a battery of the WISC-R and the WJPEB achievement tests (i.e., reading, mathematics, and written language), occurrence was determined for four LD definitions: state, ability-achievement, regression-based ability-achievement, and low achievement. The mean Full Scale IQ for the students was 99.0. Over all, 53.2% met at least one LD definition, ranging from 15.9% for low achievement to 42.9% for regression. Almost one-quarter showed overlapping between low achievement and discrepancy definitions. Age, gender, and race had few significant effects on the LD frequencies, and no single achievement area predominated. The need for thorough testing for LD in students with BD at both initial evaluation and subsequent reevaluations is discussed, as well as the subsequent delivery of sufficient LD services.
Delinquency in Russian Children and Adolescents
Authors: Pervova Irina
Published: March 2018

The current situation in Russian society is predictive of a further increase in juvenile delinquency. The crime and drug and alcohol use rates in youth are increasing significantly every year. The causes of antisocial behavior in children have social, family, individual, and environmental roots. Preventive and intervention programs need to be more socially and family oriented.
Surgical treatment of pulmonary metastasis: report from a tertiary care center
Authors: Saleh Waleed , AlShammari Abdullah , Sarraj Jumana , AlAshgar Omniyah , Ahmed Mohamed Hussein , AlKattan Khaled
Published: March 2018

Objective

This retrospective analysis aimed to determine the factors influencing prognosis in adult patients who presented to our thoracic surgery service with lung metastases and were eligible for pulmonary metastasectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 296 patients who underwent resection of 575 lung metastases from January 2000 to January 2016. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed based on age, sex, histology of the primary tumor, disease-free interval, number and size of metastases.

Results

Sixty-eight (22.97%) patients developed lung metastases from bone sarcoma, 68 (22.97%) from soft-tissue sarcoma, 56 (18.9%) from head and neck cancers, 46 (15.5%) from colorectal cancer, and 58 (19.6%) from other epithelial tumors. The mean size of the lung nodules was 2.48 cm. Open surgical resection was performed in 217 (73.3%) patients. After a mean follow-up of 43 months, 120 (40.7%) patients had died or were lost to follow-up. Univariate analysis confirmed that patients with bone cancer, soft tissue sarcoma, or colorectal carcinoma had a worse prognosis ( p = 0.0003). Moreover, those with a disease-free interval >24 months had a better 5-year survival ( p = 0.0001). The number and size of metastases, age, and sex had no effect on prognosis. The actuarial survival after complete metastasectomy was 71.6% (95% confidence interval: 66–75) at 2 years and 59.3% (95% confidence interval: 56–64) at 5 years.

Conclusions

Pulmonary metastasectomy provides good long-term survival. The type of primary tumor and disease-free interval are independent prognostic factors for survival.
Do corporate directors ‘heap’ dividends? Evidence on dividend rounding and information uncertainty in Australian firms
Authors: Nam Yoonsoo , Niblock Scott J , Sinnewe Elisabeth , Jakob Keith
Published: March 2018

In this study, we examine the extent of dividend heaping in Australian firms between 1976 and 2015. Our findings show that 27.39% of dividends greater than or equal to 2.5-cents are heaped in 2.5-cent intervals, while 70.90% of dividends less than 2.5-cents are heaped in 0.25-cent intervals. We find that the heaping phenomenon decreases over time and average dividend size increases. We also show that when establishing the likelihood of dividend heaping, stock return volatility and firm size are consistent with the information uncertainty hypothesis. Dividend heaping also appears to be influenced by firm-level characteristics that are inconsistent with the hypothesis. For instance, the likelihood of heaping increases with dividend size and firm age.
Open Latarjet Procedures Produce Better Outcomes in Competitive Athletes Compared With Recreational Athletes: A Clinical Comparative Study of 106 Athletes Aged Under 30 Years
Authors: Baverel Laurent , Colle Pierre-Emmanuel , Saffarini Mo , Anthony Odri Guillaume , Barth Johannes
Published: March 2018

Background:

In cases of shoulder stabilization for anterior instability, the main goals of the surgery are a rapid and efficient return to sports and excellent long-term outcomes without recurrence of dislocation, particularly in young and competitive athletes.

Purpose:

To determine whether outcomes of open Latarjet procedure (OLPs) depend on the level of sports practiced by patients and to report clinical scores and complication rates for OLP at a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective comparative study was conducted for all patients who underwent OLP by the senior author (J.B.) between July 2007 and December 2012. The indication for OLP at the authors’ institution was a minimum of 2 episodes of dislocation and/or subluxation, a positive apprehension test result in the cocking position, an Instability Severity Index Score more than 2, and evidence of anterior instability lesions on computed tomography arthrograms. The 106 included patients (110 shoulders) with a mean follow-up of 46 months were compared in 2 groups depending on sport activities: 57 (54%) competitive athletes and 49 (46%) recreational athletes. The principal outcome measure was evidence of recurrent instability. The secondary outcome measures were clinical scores related to anterior instability and related to sport practice: Rowe score, Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS), Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, and level of satisfaction.

Results:

Of the 106 patients, 3 reported recurrence of shoulder dislocation: 2 competitive athletes (3.5%; 95% CI, 0.9%-11.2%) and 1 recreational athlete (2%; 95% CI, 0.4%-10.7%) ( P = .684). The persistent apprehension test result was positive in 7 competitive athletes (11.5%) and in 5 recreational athletes (10%) ( P = .566). The Rowe scores improved from 56.3 ± 13.2 (range, 30-80) preoperatively to 84.2 ± 16.4 (range, 30-100) postoperatively in competitive athletes and from 55.0 ± 11.0 (range, 35-80) to 69.5 ± 22.0 (range, 15-100) in recreational athletes ( P < .001). The net improvement in Rowe scores was significantly greater in competitive athletes (27.9 ± 21.7) compared with recreational athletes (14.5 ± 24.4) ( P = .006). The scores unrelated to sport activity (Oxford Shoulder Instability Score and Simple Shoulder Test) were similar for the 2 groups. All 57 (100%) competitive athletes and 34 (69.4%) recreational athletes resumed their previous sports practice, at the same level or higher than before their injury (respectively, 78.9% and 42.9%; P = .004).

Conclusion:

The OLP could be considered for primary shoulder stabilization, particularly in competitive athletes, who have high functional demands and great risks of redislocation.
Effects of triggering mechanisms on the crashworthiness characteristics of square woven jute/epoxy composite tubes
Authors: Sivagurunathan Rubentheran , Way Saijod Lau Tze , Sivagurunathan Linkesvaran , Yaakob Mohd Yuhazri
Published: March 2018

The usage of composite materials has been growing widely over the years due to their excellent characteristics such as lightweight, high-energy absorption capability and corrosion resistance. In this study, the crashworthiness characteristics of square woven jute/epoxy composite tubes with different configuration of triggering mechanisms were tested and evaluated when subjected to quasi-static axial loading. The deformation morphology of each composite tube was captured by using high-resolution photography. The composite tubes were fabricated by using the combination of hand layup and compression bladder moulding techniques in which total of three layers of woven bi-directional natural jute fabric (plain weave mat) were used, each with wall thickness and length of 3 mm and 100 mm, respectively. To induce the progressive crushing of composite tubes, four different types of triggering mechanisms were used: the non-trigger, single chamfered trigger, double chamfered trigger and tulip trigger. The influence of energy absorption, crush force efficiency, peak load, mean load and load–displacement history was examined and discussed. From this study, most of the composite tubes failed in progressive manner rather than catastrophic failure. Overall, the tulip trigger configuration is considered the optimal design for crashworthy structure applications.
The Circadian Clock of the Ant Camponotus floridanus Is Localized in Dorsal and Lateral Neurons of the Brain
Authors: Kay Janina , Menegazzi Pamela , Mildner Stephanie , Roces Flavio , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: March 2018

The circadian clock of social insects has become a focal point of interest for research, as social insects show complex forms of timed behavior and organization within their colonies. These behaviors include brood care, nest maintenance, foraging, swarming, defense, and many other tasks, of which several require social synchronization and accurate timing. Ants of the genus Camponotus have been shown to display a variety of daily timed behaviors such as the emergence of males from the nest, foraging, and relocation of brood. Nevertheless, circadian rhythms of isolated individuals have been studied in few ant species, and the circadian clock network in the brain that governs such behaviors remains completely uncharacterized. Here we show that isolated minor workers of Camponotus floridanus exhibit temperature overcompensated free-running locomotor activity rhythms under constant darkness. Under light-dark cycles, most animals are active during day and night, with a slight preference for the night. On the neurobiological level, we show that distinct cell groups in the lateral and dorsal brain of minor workers of C. floridanus are immunostained with an antibody against the clock protein Period (PER) and a lateral group additionally with an antibody against the neuropeptide pigment-dispersing factor (PDF). PER abundance oscillates in a daily manner, and PDF-positive neurites invade most parts of the brain, suggesting that the PER/PDF-positive neurons are bona fide clock neurons that transfer rhythmic signals into the relevant brain areas controlling rhythmic behavior.
Frameworks for principal preparation and leadership development
Authors: Slater Charles L , Garcia Garduno José Maria , Mentz Kobus
Published: March 2018

The International Study of Principal Preparation has made major contributions to research on novice principals across the world. The network has carried out cross-cultural research on novice principals in 15 countries on five continents since 2004. ISPP employed a mixed methods research design. The first stage was qualitative and carried out through case studies and in-depth interviews. The second stage included narrative accounts of new principals. The third stage of the study employed a survey to gauge principals’ challenges. The chief question of the study was: How can principal preparation programs be useful to novice principals? In spite of cultural differences and economic development of the countries studied, the challenges faced by novice school principals had more commonalities than differences. They included feelings of professional isolation and loneliness, the style of the previous principal, management of time, multiple tasks, and priorities, the school budget (Liang, 2011), ineffective staff, implementation of new government initiatives, and problems with school buildings and site management. Two principal preparation frameworks are presented based on the findings. They highlight the importance of context over standardization. Recommendations are made in the areas of policy, practice, and research. Formal principal preparation programs should be expanded to both developed and developing countries. Beyond basic instruction on management issues, the ISPP frameworks argue for the development of a conscious identity as a professional and an entrepreneur who is rooted in place. These roles are important, but they must be understood within the broader social, political, and economic forces that are affecting their students. Principals need to be in a position to help teachers guide students to learn to be critical of the status quo and become agents of change for a more just community.
Leading creative research and development efforts: A literature review and proposed framework for the engineering domain
Authors: Mumford Michael D , Mulhearn Tyler J
Published: March 2018

We commonly assume that leadership is not critical to the success of creative efforts. Prior research, however, indicates that effective leadership is, in fact, critical to the success of research and development efforts that allow creative ideas to be developed into innovative new technologies. In the present effort, we examine the key functions that must be executed by those asked to lead research and development efforts. We argue that leaders, to ensure project success, must execute three key functions: (1) lead the work, (2) lead the people doing the work, and (3) lead the firm. The specific activities that must be executed by leaders, for example, evaluating the work, establishing a creative climate, and championing projects, are described. The implications of these observations for the assessment and development of project leaders responsible for creative efforts are discussed.
Design of seal ring with rectangular grooves for gas isolation in Nanoimprint Lithography
Authors: Wei Peng , Liuhong Ma , Mengke Li , Yinghui Zhong , Lei Shangguan , Yuwei Cai , Zhiyong Duan
Published: March 2018

The prominent seal ring has been studied to prevent the compressed air from entering the enclosed area of the mold and the wafer and protect pattern in Compressional Gas Cushion Press Nanoimprint Lithography (CGCP NIL). In this paper, a non-salient seal ring with rectangular grooves was proposed to replace the prominent one, which achieved the same effect. The relationship between the width of seal ring and other three factors—the contact surface properties, the height of printed liquid, and the contact angle—was also investigated. The non-salient seal ring can be effective in sealing out the compressed air, on condition that the seal ring was wide enough. Besides, the width to meet the requirements reduced significantly, with increasing the roughness. Furthermore, the rectangular grooves etched on the seal ring can increase its surface roughness and the depth–width ratio was larger, surface roughness was bigger. Owing to the presence of rectangular grooves, smaller width was required to reach the same effect of leak-proof in the process. Besides, a simple model of COMSOL Multiphysics was established to verify the correctness of proposal. This work will greatly reduce the cost of the mold and guide the production of the mold in CGCP NIL.
Robust controls for upper limb exoskeleton, real-time results
Authors: Rosales Luengas Yukio , López-Gutiérrez Ricardo , Salazar Sergio , Lozano Rogelio
Published: March 2018

This article shows the development of an exoskeleton for human joint. The exoskeleton proposed was developed for rehabilitating individuals who have suffered injuries at their shoulders, by rehabilitation exercises. The exoskeleton has special characteristics to deal with the 5 degrees of freedom of the human shoulder. The dynamic model results in the following form: [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are state’s vector, torque’s vector, a matrix function and a vector function, respectively. Therefore, we applied four different control laws, among which stand two robust controls (adaptive sliding modes and proportional–derivative with adaptive gravity compensation). The adaptive controller properties allow the exoskeleton to adapt to different humans with different parameters such as size, length, weight and so on that, in mathematical terms, is represented as a mechanical system with uncertainties.
Afghanistan in SAARC
Authors: Ahmed Zahid Shahab , Zahoor Musharaf
Published: March 2018

Ever since the formation of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in 1985, the motivation for the expansion of the Association has been expressed by its founding members. The prospective expansion comes naturally to international organisations (IOs), visible in the increase in membership of the European Union (EU) from six to 28 European countries. Similarly, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has doubled its membership since its inception. SAARC membership grew in 2007, with the inclusion of Afghanistan. Yet, there is limited assessment on the opportunities and challenges that have arisen since Afghanistan’s arrival in SAARC 10 years ago. This article provides an evaluation of Afghanistan within SAARC, and a further comparison to processes of enlargement in the EU and ASEAN. It is argued that Afghanistan’s membership poses significant challenges for SAARC, owing to its political instability. Its stature as a war-torn country has meant that it has failed to prioritise its role in the Association. Furthermore, the membership of Afghanistan has significantly contributed to the conflict relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan, further constraining SAARC processes and agendas.
Board Composition and Financial Performance
Authors: Chatterjee Chanchal , Nag Tirthankar
Published: March 2018

The present article makes an attempt to empirically examine the linkage between board composition and financial performance of the listed Indian and Chinse firms spanning over the period from 2010 to 2014. Board composition comprises of the four variables, namely, board size, auditors’ quality, CEO duality and proportion of independent directors on the board. The study finds that for Indian firms, the separation between the chief executive officer (CEO) and the chairperson does have positive impact on the firms’ return on equity (ROE), while for the Chinese firms, the proportion of independent directors on the board does significantly influence ROE of the firms. Firms with higher proportion of independent directors on their boards experience greater ROE. However, auditors’ quality and board size are not found to have any impact on the ROE of the firms of either country.
Balancing, Bandwagoning or Hedging? Independent Ceylon’s Reaction to Regional Hegemony
Authors: De Silva Shakthi
Published: March 2018

The foreign policy of Ceylon under the premiership of D.S. Senanayake maintained a distinct alignment with its former coloniser Great Britain. The zenith of this relationship was the defence agreement which came into effect upon independence in 1948. Utilising the existing scholarship on neorealism and the concept of security dilemma, analysis of the reasons behind this strategic alignment exposes the threat perception Ceylon faced from its regional hegemon, India. This study surveys such threat perceptions faced by the island at the time of independence and argues that this led to a balancing strategy with Britain. It first locates Ceylon’s foreign policy employing the taxonomies of balancing, bandwagoning and hedging and then examines how Ceylon’s extra-regional alignment with the UK enabled her to eschew from a security dilemma with India.
Adding a Parent to the Brain Tumor Team: Evaluating a Peer Support Intervention for Parents of Children With Brain Tumors
Authors: Baron Nelson Mary , Riley Kathy , Arellano Kimberly
Published: March 2018

Childhood brain tumors often present profound challenges to patients and families. To address these challenges, the California Chapter of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation provides hospital-based support services to parents of children with brain tumors from a Veteran Parent (VP). This mixed-methods, cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention using validated tools to compare parental resilience and impact of illness on the family between parents who met with the VP and those who did not. Two-tailed t tests assessed significant differences in scores on the PedsQL Family Impact module and Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-25). Additional qualitative data gleaned from focus groups with stakeholders (health care providers and parents) were analyzed using key constructs of social support theory with Atlas.ti. Although there were no significant differences in overall scores on the PedsQL Family Impact module or CD-RISC-25 between groups, parents in the intervention group scored better on items related to handling difficult decisions and painful feelings. Overarching themes emerged from focus groups around participants’ experiences with the program and included informational and emotional support, peer parent relatedness, changed outlook, and empowerment. Results reveal the impact of peer parent support and need for emotional and instrumental support.
Characterisation of anti-resonance in two-degree-of-freedom electromagnetic kinetic energy harvester, with modified electromagnetic model
Authors: O’Riordan Eoghan , Frizzell Ronan , O’Connell Diarmuid , Blokhina Elena
Published: March 2018

This article presents a detailed approach to the analysis of a two-degree-of-freedom electromagnetic kinetic energy harvester. These systems use multiple disconnected masses that can impact each other and the harvester housing. This causes complex dynamics in the system as significant momentum is transferred between the masses and, ultimately, results in strongly nonlinear behaviour. One particular nonlinear phenomenon of interest, which has not been previously characterised, is anti-resonance. Observing this phenomenon is important as it highlights efficient energy transfer between the masses, and maximising its effect can be used to enhance the harvesters’ overall performance. A range of mathematical techniques are used to better explain the concept of anti-resonance and how it can be used to improve the understanding of the system dynamics. In addition, the widely used model for electromagnetic transduction is amended to give a more precise representation of the transducer force for this embodiment of the kinetic energy harvester. This unique analysis yields a rich modelling approach that can be used to inform future kinetic energy harvester designs by identifying and optimising key design parameters. Comparisons are made with experimental measurements of a two-mass electromagnetic kinetic energy harvester, validating the modelling approach.
Cross-Language Connections for English Learners’ Literacy Development
Authors: Cárdenas-Hagan Elsa
Published: March 2018

The number of English learners continues to increase in the United States. Additionally, many English learners will experience language and learning disabilities. These students require specialized instruction by highly qualified educators. This article addresses the various cross-language strategies that can benefit English learners with disabilities. Examples of explicit and systematic instruction are provided. In addition, resources to support language instruction in the forms of tables and figures are provided for the reader. Most educators will at some point in their career face the challenge of teaching a second language learner with a learning disability. This article provides guidance regarding the special considerations that are necessary for language and literacy instruction among English learners with learning disabilities.
Le Fort III Distraction With Internal vs External Distractors
Authors: Robertson Kevin J. , Mendez Bernardino M. , Bruce William J. , McDonnell Brendan D. , Chiodo Michael V. , Patel Parit A.
Published: March 2018

Objective:

This study compares the change in midface position following Le Fort III advancement using either rigid external distraction (group 1) or internal distraction (group 2). We hypothesized that, with reference to right-facing cephalometry, internal distraction would result in increased clockwise rotation and inferior displacement of the midface.

Design:

Le Fort III osteotomies and standardized distraction protocols were performed on 10 cadaveric specimens per group. Right-facing lateral cephalograms were traced and compared across time points to determine change in position at points orbitale, anterior nasal spine (ANS), A-point, and angle ANB.

Setting:

Institutional.

Patients, Participants:

Twenty cadaveric head specimens.

Interventions:

Standard subcranial Le Fort III osteotomies were performed from a coronal approach and adequately mobilized. The specified distraction mechanism was applied and advanced by 15 mm.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Changes of position were calculated at various skeletal landmarks: orbitale, ANS, A-point, and ANB.

Results:

Group 1 demonstrated relatively uniform x-axis advancement with minimal inferior repositioning at the A-point, ANS, and orbitale. Group 2 demonstrated marked variation in x-axis advancement among the 3 points, along with a significant inferior repositioning and clockwise rotation of the midface ( P < .0001).

Conclusion:

External distraction resulted in more uniform advancement of the midface, whereas internal distraction resulted in greater clockwise rotation and inferior displacement. External distraction appears to provide increased vector control of the midface, which is important in creating a customized distraction plan based on the patient’s individual occlusal and skeletal needs.
Informed Consent in Translational Genomics: Insufficient Without Trustworthy Governance
Authors: Burke Wylie , Beskow Laura M. , Trinidad Susan Brown , Fullerton Stephanie M. , Brelsford Kathleen
Published: March 2018

Neither the range of potential results from genomic research that might be returned to participants nor future uses of stored data and biospecimens can be fully predicted at the outset of a study. Informed consent procedures require clear explanations about how and by whom decisions are made and what principles and criteria apply. To ensure trustworthy research governance, there is also a need for empirical studies incorporating public input to evaluate and strengthen these processes.
Design Issues in E-Consent
Authors: Wilbanks John
Published: March 2018

Electronic informed consent represents an opportunity to redesign the way that participants understand and elect to enroll in clinical research studies. However, electronic consent faces certain barriers common to all informed consent processes and other barriers specific to the technical environment. At Sage Bionetworks, we designed an electronic consent process as a software product and released it as an open source tool. We believe that using contemporary design processes to intentionally create cognitive friction, where potential study participants are confronted with interfaces that require them to slow down and contemplate study concepts, offers a significant opportunity for ethical design as research increasingly uses smartphones and digital methodologies.
The Digital Architectures of Social Media: Comparing Political Campaigning on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat in the 2016 U.S. Election
Authors: Bossetta Michael
Published: March 2018

The present study argues that political communication on social media is mediated by a platform’s digital architecture—the technical protocols that enable, constrain, and shape user behavior in a virtual space. A framework for understanding digital architectures is introduced, and four platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat) are compared along the typology. Using the 2016 U.S. election as a case, interviews with three Republican digital strategists are combined with social media data to qualify the study’s theoretical claim that a platform’s network structure, functionality, algorithmic filtering, and datafication model affect political campaign strategy on social media.
Assessment of bleeding incidences associated with rivaroxaban therapy in adults with solid tumors
Authors: Weddle Kellie J , Kiel Patrick J , Patel Parth J
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Report bleeding incidences associated with rivaroxaban in adult patients with solid tumor malignancies requiring anticoagulation therapy.

Methods

This retrospective review was conducted at Indiana University Health, University Hospital and the Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis, IN from January 2013 – February 2016. Patients were included if they had a solid tumor malignancy and prescribed rivaroxaban. Data were collected on 144 patients. Major bleeding was defined as bleeding requiring treatment (local, systemic treatment, blood cell transfusions) or hospitalization and minor bleeding was defined as bleeding not requiring treatment or hospitalization.

Results

Sixty-four (44%) patients experienced bleeding while on rivaroxaban. There were six cancer types that had a higher incidence of bleeding: bladder, breast, melanoma, pancreas, prostate, and renal cell cancers; 40% (6/15) of patients with bladder cancer experienced bleeding; 54% (7/13) with breast cancer experienced bleeding; 40% (4/10) of patients with melanoma experienced bleeding; 58% (11/19) of patients with pancreatic cancer experienced bleeding; 45% (10/22) of patients with prostate cancer experienced bleeding; and 56% (5/9) of patients with renal cell carcinoma experienced bleeding. No other data collected identified increased incidence of bleeding.

Conclusions

Patients on rivaroxaban with a diagnosis of bladder, breast, melanoma, pancreas, prostate, or renal cell cancers had a higher incidence of bleeding compared to other solid tumors. Major bleeding was higher in bladder, breast, pancreas, and renal cell carcinomas, while minor bleeding was higher in patients with melanoma and prostate cancer.
TeleMental Health: Standards, Reimbursement, and Interstate Practice
Authors: Adams Susie M. , Rice Michael J. , Jones Sara L. , Herzog Edward , Mackenzie Lauri John , Oleck Leslie G.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: TeleMental Health (TMH) is gaining widespread acceptance in the United States. OBJECTIVE: Summarize current evidence regarding TMH risks and benefits, standards of care, practice guidelines, reimbursement, and interstate practice issues pertinent to psychiatric nurses and consumers. DESIGN: A targeted review of literature, current practice, and TMH websites was generated using the following key search words: clinical outcomes, practice guidelines, regulations, interstate practice, and reimbursement for TMH. A search of government and professional organization websites and a literature review of PubMed and PsychINFO databases was limited to the past 15 years. RESULTS: Studies demonstrate TMH services are equal in efficacy to that provided in face-to-face encounters and preferred by some populations. Current TMH practice guidelines, reimbursement, and regulatory issues are reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: Providers, including psychiatric advanced practice registered nurses, can use TMH to effectively address the growing need for mental health services, although regulatory, licensure, and clinical issues must be addressed prior to offering TMH services.
Reviewing the Utility of Two Species in General Toxicology Related to Drug Development
Authors: Prior Helen , Baldrick Paul , de Haan Lolke , Downes Noel , Jones Keith , Mortimer-Cassen Elisabeth , Kimber Ian
Published: March 2018

As part of the safety assessment of new drugs, the use of two species (a rodent and a nonrodent) for regulatory toxicology studies is the typical approach taken for small molecules. For biologics, species selection is dictated by pharmacological relevance, and single species toxicology packages (typically using the nonhuman primate) are common. The UK National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement, and Reduction of Animals in Research and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry are collaborating on a project to review the utility of two species in regulatory toxicology studies, with the aim to explore whether there are wider circumstances when data from a single species could be sufficient to enable safe progression in humans. An international working group consisting of 37 representatives from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contract research organizations, academia, and regulatory bodies is coordinating a large-scale data sharing exercise to examine the potential for changes in current practice to reduce the number of species used for nonclinical safety testing at different stages of development. The challenge will be to determine whether two species toxicology adds significant value or whether in some instances data from a single species are sufficient (across a broader range of molecules than is currently the case) without compromising human safety.
Bile Acids as Potential Biomarkers to Assess Liver Impairment in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Brock William J. , Beaudoin James J. , Slizgi Jason R. , Su Mingming , Jia Wei , Roth Sharin E. , Brouwer Kim L. R.
Published: March 2018

Polycystic kidney disease is characterized by the progressive development of kidney cysts and declining renal function with frequent development of cysts in other organs including the liver. The polycystic kidney (PCK) rat is a rodent model of polycystic liver disease that has been used to study hepatorenal disease progression and evaluate pharmacotherapeutic interventions. Biomarkers that describe the cyst progression, liver impairment, and/or hepatic cyst burden could provide clinical utility for this disease. In the present study, hepatic cyst volume was measured by magnetic resonance imaging in PCK rats at 12, 16, and 20 weeks. After 20 weeks, Sprague Dawley (n = 4) and PCK (n = 4) rats were sacrificed and 42 bile acids were analyzed in the liver, bile, serum, and urine by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Bile acid profiling revealed significant increases in total bile acids (molar sum of all measured bile acids) in the liver (13-fold), serum (6-fold), and urine (3-fold) in PCK rats, including those speciated bile acids usually associated with hepatotoxicity. Total serum bile acids correlated with markers of liver impairment (liver weight, total liver bile acids, total hepatotoxic liver bile acids, and cyst volume [ r > 0.75; P < 0.05]). Based on these data, serum bile acids may be useful biomarkers of liver impairment in polycystic hepatorenal disease.
Prospective Controlled Trial for the Treatment of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae With a Long-Pulsed Neodymium-Doped Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet Laser
Authors: Woo Denise K. , Treyger German , Henderson Marsha , Huggins Richard H. , Jackson-Richards Diane , Hamzavi Iltefat
Published: March 2018

Background:

Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a chronic scarring folliculitis with limited interventions of both high efficacy and low morbidity.

Objective:

To assess the efficacy of the long-pulsed 1064-nm neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser and topical steroids as a treatment for AKN compared to topical steroids alone.

Methods:

We conducted a single-blinded, randomised, within-patient right-left controlled trial (n = 13). Eight monthly laser treatments were performed on the treated half of the scalp, and triamcinolone 0.1% cream was applied to both sides twice daily. Treatment response was measured using a global assessment score (0 to 10).

Results:

The laser-treated side showed greater improvement in global assessment score. The mean change was −3.2 (−49.2%) on the treated side and −2.2 (−32.8%) on the control side ( P = .144). Papules responded well to laser treatment, while larger plaques and nodules showed limited improvement. In the 10 patients with papules only, the difference in improvement between the treated and control sides was statistically significant (mean change was −3.5 [−59.3%] for the treated side and −1.8 [−29.5%] for the control side, P = .031).

Limitations:

This study was limited by a small sample size and a high dropout rate, as well as the lack of a standardised scoring system for AKN.

Conclusion:

The long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in conjunction with topical steroids shows promising results in the treatment of AKN, particularly the papular component, and is well tolerated by patients.
Tribo-mechanical and surface morphological comparison of untextured, mechanical micro-textured (MμT), and coated-MμT cutting tools during machining
Authors: Gajrani Kishor Kumar , Pavan Kumar Reddy Rokkham , Ravi Sankar Mamilla
Published: March 2018

In machining process, cutting fluids are used to reduce the tool–chip interface temperature and forces, but it causes various health hazards to machine operators as well as increases the associated costs. To improve machining sustainability, researchers are trying to reduce or eliminate cutting fluid usage during machining by various other techniques (development of better tool material, bio-cutting fluids, use of vegetable oils, near-dry machining, process optimization, surface coatings, etc). In recent years, several researchers applied controlled surface modification (surface texturing/engineering) at the tool–chip interface to improve the tribological properties in the machining performance. In the present study, first mechanical microtextures (MµT) are created on the rake surface, and its structural stability is compared with an untextured/virgin cutting tool. The static structural analyses show a negligible effect of mechanical microtextures on the strength of the cutting tool. Afterwards, MµT cutting tools are coated using molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) solid lubricant (i.e. coated MµT, C-MµT). Subsequently, the machining performance studies of C-MµT were carried out to show its advantages over two other types of cutting tools (UC, MµT). Performance of C-MµT is improved by mechanical microtextures (due to the reduction in the actual contact area between tool–chip interfaces) and proper lubrication of the tool–chip contact area. Thus, due to the reduced contact area and formation of lubricant layer by MoS2 at the tool–chip interface, C-MµT experiences 23.75% lower tool–chip interface temperature, 41.06% reduction in the cutting force, and produces 14.37% less workpiece center line average surface roughness ( Ra) compared to untextured cutting tool. C-MµT experiences 9.55% lower tool–chip interface temperature, 19.02% reduction in the cutting force, and produces 5.34% less workpiece center line average surface roughness compared to the MµT cutting tool. Hence, C-MµT cutting tools are the viable alternative to untextured cutting tools.
Fronto-limbic disconnection in patients with multiple sclerosis and depression
Authors: van Geest Quinten , Boeschoten Rosa E , Keijzer Matthijs J , Steenwijk Martijn D , Pouwels Petra JW , Twisk Jos WR , Smit Johannes H , Uitdehaag Bernard MJ , Geurts Jeroen JG , van Oppen Patricia , Hulst Hanneke E
Published: March 2018

Background:

The biological mechanism of depression in multiple sclerosis (MS) is not well understood. Based on work in major depressive disorder, fronto-limbic disconnection might be important.

Objective:

To investigate structural and functional fronto-limbic changes in depressed MS (DMS) and non-depressed MS (nDMS) patients.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, 22 moderate-to-severe DMS patients (disease duration 8.2 ± 7.7 years), 21 nDMS patients (disease duration 15.3 ± 8.3 years), and 12 healthy controls underwent neuropsychological testing and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; 1.5 T). Brain volumes (white matter (WM), gray matter, amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus), lesion load, fractional anisotropy (FA) of fronto-limbic tracts, and resting-state functional connectivity (FC) between limbic and frontal areas were measured and compared between groups. Regression analysis was performed to relate MRI measures to the severity of depression.

Results:

Compared to nDMS patients, DMS patients (shorter disease duration) had lower WM volume ( p < 0.01), decreased FA of the uncinate fasciculus ( p < 0.05), and lower FC between the amygdala and frontal regions ( p < 0.05). Disease duration, FA of the uncinate fasciculus, and FC of the amygdala could explain 48% of variance in the severity of depression. No differences in cognition were found.

Conclusion:

DMS patients showed more pronounced (MS) damage, that is, structural and functional changes in temporo-frontal regions, compared to nDMS patients, suggestive of fronto-limbic disconnection.
Does women’s descriptive representation matter for policy preferences? The role of political parties
Authors: Espírito-Santo Ana , Freire André , Serra-Silva Sofia
Published: March 2018

Although the presence of women has been increasing in several parliaments around the world, we still do not know much about the consequences that their presence has for policy representation. Relying on a rich comparative dataset on prospective MPs’ policy preferences in 12 countries and 87 political parties collected between 2006 and 2012 within the Comparative Candidates Survey, this article aims to understand how political parties interplay with prospective MPs’ sex to affect the latter’s policy preferences. Our results show that the descriptive representation of women makes a difference for policy representation, (i) mainly (though not only) when issues that particularly affect women are at stake and (ii) only concerning issues around which political parties do not yet have settled positions (i.e. uncrystallized issues). There are therefore empirical grounds to support an imposed representation of minority groups to deal with issues that are new on the political agenda.