bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maximizing Nutrition Support Practice and Measuring Adherence to Nutrition Support Guidelines in a Canadian Tertiary Care ICU
Authors: McCall Michele E. , Adamo Alice , Latko Katherine , Rieder Ashley K. , Durand Nicole , Nathanson Tova
Published: December 2017

Objective:

New comprehensive guidelines for nutrition support (NS) in the intensive care unit (ICU) can be used to improve quality of care and benchmark current practice. The objective of this study was to (a) compare NS practices in our medical/surgical ICU (MSICU) to 18 recommendations described in the Canadian Clinical Practice Guidelines and Society of Critical Care Medicine/American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition guidelines, (b) determine the percentage of goal calories and protein delivered, and (c) identify the barriers to successful NS delivery.

Design:

This was a prospective observation trial of up to 14 days duration.

Setting:

A 24-bed MSICU in a tertiary teaching hospital in Toronto, Canada.

Patients:

We studied 98 mechanically ventilated patients with any diagnosis who were expected to require either enteral nutrition (EN) or parenteral nutrition (PN) for >48 hours.

Measurements:

We measured nutritional intake, barriers to nutritional intake, and parameters that allowed comparison of our practice to 18 guidelines.

Main Results:

Mean delivery of protein and energy was 79.3% and 81.1% of goal, respectively. The average time to initiation of EN support was 29.5 ± 23.7 hours. The 3 main reasons for interruption to enteral feeding were airway management issues, procedures, and gastrointestinal intolerance. Enteral feeding during vasopressor therapy was well tolerated. Ten of the 18 guidelines were followed for ≥80% of the time. Protein goals for patients on renal replacement therapy and patients with liver disease were not reached. Head-of-bed positioning was also inadequate. The 13 patients requiring PN all had appropriate indications for this therapy, including gastrointestinal leaks, maldigestion, or malabsorption.

Conclusions:

Nutrition support delivery was successful for most patients in this study. However, only 10 of the 18 guidelines were adequately followed. This study helped identify NS practices that work well and others that require strategies for improvement.
Empathy Mind-Set Moderates the Association Between Low Empathy and Social Aggression
Authors: Gandhi Arti U. , Dawood Sindes , Schroder Hans S.
Published: December 2017

Empathy plays an important role in creating and maintaining adaptive interpersonal relationships. Accordingly, existing studies often report a negative correlation between empathy and interpersonal aggression. However, findings are sometimes inconsistent, and concerns have been raised about the size of the overall effect. Here, we examined the potential moderating role of empathy mind-sets—beliefs about the malleability of empathy. We hypothesized that the association between low empathy and aggression would be especially strong if individuals also believed that their levels of empathy were unchangeable (i.e., they endorsed a fixed mind-set about empathy); in contrast, a belief that empathy was malleable may weaken the association. Results supported this hypothesis, such that individuals with low levels of empathy were less likely to report aggression—social aggression in particular—if they also believed that empathy was changeable. These results point to a role for beliefs about the malleability of empathy as an important moderator and may point to ways to enhance empathy interventions by targeting mind-sets.
Temporal Effects of Acute Walking Exercise on Learning and Memory Function
Authors: Sng Eveleen , Frith Emily , Loprinzi Paul D.
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the temporal effects of acute exercise on episodic memory.

Design:

A quasi-experimental study.

Sample:

Eighty-eight college students (N = 22 per group).

Measures:

Four experimental groups were evaluated, including a control group, exercising prior to memory encoding, exercising during encoding, and exercising during memory consolidation. The exercise stimulus consisted of a 15-minute moderate-intensity walk on a treadmill. Participants completed the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) to assess learning and memory. Prospective memory was assessed via a Red Pen Task. Long-term memory (recognition and attribution) of the RAVLT was assessed 20 minutes and 24 hours after exercise.

Analysis:

Repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) assessed the performance of RAVLT scores of trials 1 to 5 across groups. One-way ANOVA assessed the performance of individual trials across groups, whereas χ2 assessed the performance of the Red Pen Task across groups.

Results:

Regarding learning, the interaction of groups × trial was marginally statistically significant ( F12,332 = 1.773, P = .05), indicating that the group which exercised before encoding did better than the group that exercised during encoding and consolidation. For both 24-hour recognition and attribution performance, the group that exercised before memory encoding performed significantly better than the group that exercised during consolidation ( P = .05 recognition, P = .006 attribution).

Discussion:

Engaging in a 15-minute bout of moderate-intensity walking before a learning task was effective in influencing long-term episodic memory.
Effects of AP and AP-ethyl on the properties of PA6
Authors: Lijuan Long , Wentao He , Juan Li , Yushu Xiang , Shuhao Qin , Jie Yu
Published: December 2017

In this work, the effects of inorganic phosphinate flame retardant of aluminum hypophosphite (AP) and organic phosphinate flame retardant of ethyl substituted phosphinates (AP-ethyl) on the thermal degradation, flame performance, and mechanical properties of polyamide 6 (PA6) were investigated. Scanning electron micrograph showed AP with the shape of bulk and the mean size of 8 μm while AP-ethyl with irregular shape and the mean size of 30 μm. Thermal analysis indicated that the thermal degradation behavior of flame-retardant PA6 was different from pure PA6. Moreover, the cone calorimeter test results revealed that peak heat release rate (PHRR) of PA6/AP (85/15) and PA6/AP-ethyl (85/15) decreased by 51% and 64%, respectively, compared with pure PA6. Furthermore, pure PA6 showed ductile stress–strain curve with the tensile strength of 54.8 MPa. However, PA6/AP and PA6/AP-ethyl displayed brittle stress–strain curve and their tensile strength decreased to 52.3 and 47.1 MPa, respectively. In addition, pure PA6 showed a glossy and tough fracture surface morphology. The rough fracture surface morphologies for PA6/AP and PA6/AP-ethyl were observed, and the interface of PA6/AP was more obscure than that of PA6/AP-ethyl. Consequently, the small particle size of AP had a more uniform dispersion in PA6 matrix.
Do online health communities enhance patient–physician relationship? An assessment of the impact of social support and patient empowerment
Authors: Audrain-Pontevia Anne-Francoise , Menvielle Loick
Published: December 2017

The diffusion of the Web 2.0 has made it possible for patients to exchange on online health communities, defined as computer-mediated communities dedicated to health topics, wherein members can build relationships with other members. It is now acknowledged that online health communities provide users not only with medical information but also with social support with no time or geographical boundaries. However, in spite of their considerable interest, there is still a paucity of research as to how online health communities alter the patient–physician relationship. This research aims at filling this gap and examines how online health communities, while providing users with computer-mediated social support and empowerment, impact the patient–physician relationship. Six hypotheses are proposed and tested. A survey was developed and 328 responses were collected from online patient groups in Canada in 2016. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling. All but one hypothesis are validated. The results show that user computer-mediated social support positively influences user empowerment and participation during the consultation, which in turn determines user commitment to the relationship with the physician. Importantly and contrary to our expectations, user empowerment is found to be significantly but negatively related to user commitment with the physician.
From evolutionary theory to philosophy of history
Authors: Gabel Isabel
Published: December 2017

Well into the 1940s, many French biologists rejected both Mendelian genetics and Darwinism in favour of neo-transformism, the claim that evolution proceeds by the inheritance of acquired characteristics. In 1931 the zoologist Maurice Caullery published Le Problème d’évolution, arguing that, while Lamarckian mechanisms could not be demonstrated in the present, they had nevertheless operated in the past. It was in this context that Raymond Aron expressed anxiety about the relationship between biology, history, and human autonomy in his 1938 Introduction à la philosophie de l’histoire: essai sur les limites de l’objectivité historique, in which he rejected both neo-Kantian and biological accounts of human history. Aron aspired to a philosophy of history that could explain the dual nature of human existence as fundamentally rooted in the biological, and at the same time, as a radical transcendence of natural law. I argue that Aron’s encounter with evolutionary theory at this moment of epistemic crisis in evolutionary theory was crucial to the formation of his philosophy of history, and moreover that this case study demonstrates the importance of moving beyond the methodological divisions between intellectual history and history of science.
Myth and Reality: Pacifism’s Discourse on Violence Revisited
Authors: Lohmann Friedrich
Published: December 2017

Pacifism is an active form of resistance, and therefore not to be criticised as a passive withdrawal from the world. The defining characteristic of pacifism, in both the institutional and the witness approach, is its categorical commitment to nonviolence. Therefore, pacifism’s discourse on violence deserves special attention. This article identifies incoherencies and developments in pacifism’s discourse on violence, which are due to the almost unbearable burden of thinking and acting categorically in a nonviolent manner. It furthermore identifies two presuppositions in pacifist thinking on the consequences of the use of violence which turn out to be rather myths than reality. It cannot be proven that violence always begets violence nor that violence cannot be tamed in military operations. Therefore, the belief of pacifism that peace can be brought about effectively only when refusing any kind of violent means turns out to be an irrational myth as well.
Preparation and properties of poly(aryl ether ketone)-based phthalonitrile conductive composite film
Authors: Ma Jingjing , Liu Tao , Wang Weiting , Yang Yanhua
Published: December 2017

A series of poly(aryl ether ketone) polymers containing phthalonitrile with relatively high molecular weights showed good film formation and toughness to be the good candidate for matrix of functional composites. To develop the application of bisphthalonitrile resins in the conductive composite membrane materials field, the phthalonitrile resin/multiwalled carbon nanotubes conductive composite membranes were prepared by the solution blending method. The conductive composite membranes have low percolation threshold (0.25 vol.%) and excellent conductive properties. With 0.79% weight fraction of carbon nanotubes, the cross-linking membrane shows a great enhancement in mechanical properties. They have the potential to be alternative candidates in the field of high-temperature, conductive composite membrane materials.
Mechanical and dielectric properties of epoxy composites filled with hybrid aluminum particles with binary size distribution
Authors: Gong Ying , Zhou Wenying , Sui Xuezhen , Kou Yujia , Xu Li , Cai Huiwu , Liu Xiangrong , Chen Qingguo
Published: December 2017

Epoxy composites incorporated with three kinds of hybrid aluminum (Al) particles with binary size distribution, that is, [1 μm/45 μm], [1 μm/18 μm], and [18 μm/45 μm], respectively, were prepared, and the mechanical and dielectric properties of the hybrid Al/epoxy composites were investigated as a function of relative weight fraction of smaller-size Al ( Ws) of hybrid Al particles at a total filler content of 50 wt%. The mechanical and electrical properties of the hybrid Al/epoxy composites are found to mainly depend on the type of hybrid filler and the Ws and can be tuned by changing the Ws. The maximum tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites appear at an optimal Ws. Furthermore, the dielectric permittivity, dielectric breakdown strength, and volume resistivity of the hybrid Al/epoxy composites also exhibit the similar variations as the mechanical properties with the Ws. The obvious enhancements in the physical properties can be ascribed to the synergistic effect of hybrid particles in the matrix at the optimal Ws, which endows the composites with better mechanical and dielectric properties. So, the results give a facile strategy to enhance the dielectric and mechanical properties of the composites by choosing a proper Ws at a fixed total filler loading.
Dynamics response of an on-board rotor supported on modified oil-film force considering base motion
Authors: Liu Zhenxing , Liu Zhansheng , Li Yu , Zhang Guanghui
Published: December 2017

In an on-board rotor journal bearing system, hydrodynamic bearing forces are affected by the coupling motion between rotor and base. To study the system dynamic response, a model of the on-board rotor supported on hydrodynamic bearing force is proposed in this paper. Motion equations of rigid disk and elastic shaft are derived by applying the Lagrange principle and finite element method. Based on the short bearing assumption and Hahn boundary condition, a modified oil-film force model of the hydrodynamic bearing is derived by introducing the base motion velocity. Under sinusoidal excitations of the base translational motion, dynamic responses of the on-board rotor bearing system are calculated by a Newmark time-step integration algorithm. Results are presented by time history, fast Fourier transforms, orbits and Poincare maps, and are compared with the response dominated by Capone's oil-film force model. The influences of amplitude and frequency of base motion on system dynamic behavior are investigated. Differences after introducing base motion velocity into the oil-film force model show that the convective velocity of the bearings should not be ignored in some extreme cases.
Design of a vibration-free platform: Stabilization of a beam mounted on bicycle model of a car
Authors: Dogruer CU , Yildirim Bora
Published: December 2017

Many high-precision measurement and control devices must be mounted on vibration-free platforms. Accuracy of those devices’ output are adversely affected by the base excitation motion, so motion of these platforms must be isolated from the excitation source. In this paper, a flexible platform, which is mounted on a car, is considered as a base on which many such measurement and control devices can be attached. To this end, mixed finite element and lumped parameter model of the platform and vehicle are used to derive the model of such a system; this results in a discrete-model with finite degree of freedom. This lumped parameter model of the system is then controlled by a linear quadratic regulator, which minimizes the amplitude of vibration at finite number of points on the platform. The mathematical model of this system was simulated on a computer and it has been shown that it is possible to minimize the vibration of this flexible platform.
Surface modelling and design approach research for single cone screw-bush pair with equal volume of chambers
Authors: Chen Yingchun , Wang Yunkun , Wang Xinhua
Published: December 2017

To increase the delivery capacity and flow stability of the screw pump and reduce wear between the stator and the rotor, a surface forming method of single-head cone screw-bush pair with equal cavities and large delivery capacity was investigated based on the conventional single cone screw theory. An equation of the cone screw-bush pair surface was established according to the space engagement theory. A flow equation of single cone screw bush pair was built based on the cone screw-bush pair section equation and the rule of its variation. The calculation method of the screw structure size at a given flow rate was determined as well. A kinematics equation of the single cone screw-bush pair was obtained after a kinematics analysis of the single cone screw-bush pair conducted. The movement formula of a single cone screw-bush pair with equal cavities and large delivery capacity was concluded. Three-dimensional model of a single cone screw and a bush was built and the motion simulation of the pair was conducted based on MATLAB and Pro/Mechanism. The kinematics rules were summarized at the same time. Moreover, a single cone screw and a bush solid model were processed based on the three-dimensional model of the cone screw-bush pair and the three-dimensional printing technology. The correctness of the equation of the single cone screw-bush pair surface was verified.
Color-gradient lattice Boltzmann modeling of immiscible two-phase flows on partially wetting surfaces
Authors: Yu Yuan , Liu Haihu , Zhang Yonghao , Liang Dong
Published: December 2017

A zero-interfacial-force condition is derived and implemented to improve the wetting boundary scheme for a lattice Boltzmann color-gradient model. This new wetting boundary scheme is validated by two static problems, i.e. a droplet resting on a flat surface and a cylindrical surface, and one dynamic problem, i.e. the capillary filling in a two-dimensional channel. In these simulations, we observe that non-physical mass transfer is suppressed and spurious velocities become smaller. Meanwhile, accurate results including dynamic contact line movement are achieved for a broad range of contact angles. The model is then applied to study the displacement of immiscible fluids in a two-dimensional channel. Both the displacement velocity and the change rate of finger length are found to exhibit a linear dependence on the contact angle at the viscosity ratio of unity. The displacement velocity decreases but the change rate of finger length increases with increasing capillary number, while the displacement velocity tends to be constant, i.e. two-thirds of the maximum inlet velocity, at high viscosity ratios or low capillary numbers. In contrast to the displacement velocity, the change rate of finger length is negligible at high viscosity ratios or low capillary numbers, where the finger length is in an equilibrium state, while the equilibrium finger length itself is smaller at a higher viscosity ratio or a lower capillary number.
A review of electromechanical actuators for More/All Electric aircraft systems
Authors: Qiao Guan , Liu Geng , Shi Zhenghong , Wang Yawen , Ma Shangjun , Lim Teik C
Published: December 2017

Conventional hydraulic actuators in aircraft systems are high maintenance and more vulnerable to high temperatures and pressures. This usually leads to high operating costs and low efficiency. With the rapid development of More/All Electric technology, power-by-wire actuators are being broadly employed to improve the maintainability, reliability, and manoeuvrability of future aircraft. This paper reviews the published application and development of the airborne linear electromechanical actuator. First, the general configuration, merits, and limitations of the gear-drive electromechanical actuator and the direct-drive electromechanical actuator are analysed. Second, the development state of the electromechanical actuator testing systems is elaborated in three aspects, namely the performance testing based on room temperature, testing in a thermal vacuum environment, and iron bird. Common problems and tendencies of the testing systems are summarized. Key technologies and research challenges are revealed in terms of fault-tolerant motor, high-thrust mechanical transmission, multidisciplinary modelling, thermal management, and thermal analysis. Finally, the trend for future electromechanical actuators in More/All Electric Aircraft applications is summarized, and future research on the airborne linear electromechanical actuators is discussed.
Optimizing the lay-up of composite tapes based on improved geodesic strategy for automated tape placement
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhou Zhenhua , Chen Gengbiao , Chen Shuhan
Published: December 2017

The use of composite materials in aerospace, automotive and ship industry allows manufacturing lighter and more efficient mechanical structures. The major limiting factors are the high-manufacturing costs and low-production rates. Automated tape placement is one alternative process to overcome the limiting factors. Due to the complex contour of the mandrel, the lay-up paths of the contiguous tapes are not parallel along their lengths, which eventually introduce gaps or overlaps between the edges of tapes. Overlaps and excessive gaps are undesirable as they will decrease the strength of the resulting composite member. In this paper, a novel trajectory planning method for automated tape placement, entitled improved geodesic strategy, is proposed. The strategy aims to optimize the relationship between adjacent tapes. At the same time, the distortion of composite tape is also specified in order to prevent wrinkling. The principle and characteristic of the algorithm are presented. The method is investigated on the airfoil of an unmanned aerial vehicle and some of the results are presented in this paper.
Structural study on a swing compressor with no valves for air compression
Authors: Pan Xi , Wang Man , Xing Zi-wen , Pan Shu-lin
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a novel swing compressor with no valves employed in air compression. The design and work principle of this swing compressor are introduced. And the effects of discharge port, exhaust cavity, and crank speed on the performances of this compressor are analyzed. Under the same operating conditions and dimensions, the size of exhaust cavity mainly depends on the discharge port width. Additionally, the exhaust cavity angle has a direct impact on the compression process, whether it is over-compression or under-compression. And the over-compression loss can be designed below 2%. Overall, the assessment of the structure shows that this novel swing compressor with no valves has the advantages of simple component geometries, light weight, and high efficiency, which makes it well suited to the requirements of air compression.
Sound & vibration control for a single-cylinder gasoline engine based on parameter optimization of timing-chain system
Authors: Hou Xianjun , Du Songze , Lu Chihua , Liu Zien , Zheng Hao , Wu Haitao
Published: December 2017

In order to promote the idling noise quality of a single-cylinder gasoline engine, this paper addresses sound source identification and noise control research. The noise was identified by the application of subjective evaluation, acoustic spectrum and sound intensity analysis. It was found that the noise was caused by the anomalous dynamic performance of the timing system under idling conditions. Furthermore, sound and vibration characteristics of timing system were improved by design methodology research of key components. A multi-body dynamic model was established to characterize dynamic characteristics of the timing system under idling conditions. The key factor of producing noise was that the fluctuation of contact force between the chain and guide and transverse displacement of the chain were much higher than those of the allowable design limit. For the lowest design alternation and manufacturing costs, the work analyzed six timing system improvement schemes obtained by cross combination of tensioner blade line and guide strip radian parameters. After that, the optimal design scheme which could improve dynamic performance parameters of the timing system was derived. The design scheme was conducted with a acoustic test of engine to derive the following results. The noise level of a single-cylinder engine under idling conditions decreased by 3 dB(A). The abnormal noise of the original engine was eliminated under subjective evaluation. The sound quality under other working conditions had no apparent deterioration. Research shows that guide and tensioner blade line optimization design could improve dynamic performance of the timing chain system to eliminate abnormal noise, thereby significantly improving the acoustic characteristic of a single-cylinder engine.
A recursive propagator-based subspace method for vehicle handling dynamic system model identification
Authors: Yang Weimiao , Guan Xiqiang , Zhang Jianwu
Published: December 2017

A high-precision vehicle handling dynamic model is of great importance in both the analysis of system performance and development of stability controller. This study introduces a new modeling algorithm based on subspace identification. Different from traditional batchwise subspace identification method, the new modeling method is proposed in the framework of online realization and unbiased estimation, which is ensured by a recursive propagator method (PM) combined with a vector autoregressive with exogenous (VARX) input model. Also, an observable and controllable 4-order linear time-varying (LTV) vehicle handling dynamic model, including rolling motion, is presented. To validate the identification algorithm, real vehicle standard road tests, including the step input test and impulse input test, are conducted, and sampling data are collected to apply into the identification procedure. The feasibility and accuracy of this online identification method are demonstrated. Furthermore, the stability of identification method is validated by an identification process based on road test data with measurement noise interference, and the superiority of the proposed identifiable LTV model is proved compared to the linear time-invariant (LTI) model.
Predicting the failure of railway point machines by using Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average and Autoregressive-Kalman methods
Authors: Abbasnejad Sahand , Mirabadi Ahmad
Published: December 2017

In this paper, forercasting methods that use autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and autoregressive-Kalman (AR-Kalman) are presented for the prediction of the failure state of S700K railway point machines. Using signal processing methods such as wavelet transform and statistical analysis and the stator current signal, the authors have acquired the time series data of the point machine behavior using a near-failure test point machine. Prediction methods are implemented by utilizing the acquired time series data, and the results are compared with the specified failure margin. Furthermore, the prposed ARIMA method used in this study is compared with the AR-Kalman prediction method, and prediction errors are analysed.
Installation of under sleeper pads on ballasted railway tracks: An economic analysis of their potential implementation
Authors: Ortega Alejandro , Blainey Simon , Preston John
Published: December 2017

This study examines the economic impact of installing under sleeper pads in two different routes in the UK: the London-Portsmouth line and a section of the East Coast Main Line. The Portsmouth line is a typical suburban route with a high proportion of commuters whereas the East Coast Main Line is a higher speed line with less users and more distance between stations. The cost implications of this intervention are assessed through a stochastic application of cost benefit analysis underpinned with a sensitivity analysis. Using an industry-specific model, vehicle track interaction strategic model, as well as the results of laboratory experiments conducted at the University of Southampton, we are able to offer a set of conclusions. Increased reliability, improved ride quality and reduced vibration are important benefits for the users, higher in total terms on the Portsmouth line than on the East Coast Main Line, but smaller when the comparison is made on a per capita basis. In other words, the investment brings a higher absolute efficiency gain for the Portsmouth line but a higher relative efficiency gain for the East Coast Main Line. It is found that under sleeper pads can lead to substantial financial savings; these are higher for the East Coast Main Line than the Portsmouth line. Finally, depending on assumptions concerning noise impacts, under sleeper pads are likely to have substantial wider social benefits; these are much higher for the Portsmouth line than the East Coast Main Line. Although these conclusions are based on a UK case study, they could be applicable to any railway operation in a developed region facing high maintenance costs and growing demand.
Experimental study of riblet effects on the aerodynamic performance and flow characteristics of a delta wing
Authors: Saeedi Rizi Behnam , Nili-Ahmadabadi Mahdi , Nafar Sefiddashti Mehrdad , Khodabakhshian Naeini Hamed
Published: December 2017

The present study investigates the effects of riblet on the aerodynamic performance and flow characteristics of a delta wing. Flow visualizations and measurements of the aerodynamic forces are performed on a smooth-surface as well as few textured-surface models of the delta wing. Flow visualizations were undertaken at flow speed of 2.5 m/s and various angles of attack in a vertical wind tunnel. The effects of riblet are investigated on the diameter of the vortices, location of the vortex breakdown, distance of the vortices from the wing surface, pattern of flow lines around the wing, and separation phenomenon. The results show that the riblet with a height-to-chord ratio of 0.013 has the most positive effect on the aforementioned parameters as far as drag reduction is concerned. In the second part of the study, lift and drag forces of the models are measured in a horizontal wind tunnel for a smooth-surface model as well as the other two textured models with height-to-chord ratios of 0.006 and 0.013, height-to-distance ratio of 1, sweep angle of 63.5°, and at Reynolds number of 2 × 105 and 0 to 35° angles of attack. The riblet-surface delta-wing model with height-to-chord ratio of 0.013 shows an increased lift-to-drag ratio at the whole range of angles of attack from 0 to 35°.
A practical clinical kinematic model for the upper limbs
Authors: Noble Jonathan J , Fry Nicola RD , Bingham Carly R , East Rebecca H , Shortland Adam P
Published: December 2017

A novel clinically practical upper limb model is introduced that has been developed through clinical use in children and adults with neurological conditions to guide surgery to the elbow and wrist. This model has a minimal marker set, minimal virtual markers, and no functional joint centres to minimise the demands on the patient and duration of data collection. The model calculates forearm supination independently from the humerus segment, eliminating any errors introduced by poor modelling of the shoulder joint centre. Supination is calculated by defining the forearm segment twice, from the distal and proximal ends: first, using the ulna and radial wrist markers as a segment defining line and second using the medial and lateral elbow markers as a segment defining line. This is comparable to the clinical measurement of supination utilising a goniometer and enables a reduced marker set, with only the elbow, wrist, and hand markers to be applied when only the wrist and forearm angles are of interest. A sensitivity analysis of the calculated elbow flexion–extension angles to the position of the glenohumeral joint centre is performed on one healthy female subject, aged 20 years, during elbow flexion and a forward reaching task. A comparison of the supination angles calculated utilising the novel technique compared to the rotation between the humeral and forearm segments is also given. All angles are compared to a published kinematic model that follows the recommendations of the International Society of Biomechanics.
Redistributive efficiency in 28 developed economies
Authors: Kyriacou Andreas P. , Muinelo-Gallo Leonel , Roca-Sagalés Oriol
Published: December 2017

This article analyses the redistributive efficiency of social transfers and direct taxation in a panel of 28 developed economies during the period 1995–2010. In order to explore how redistribution is achieved through these fiscal policies, a two-stage approach is applied. First, we evaluate their redistributive efficiency – the degree of redistribution attained for a given level of transfers and taxes – using data envelopment analysis (DEA). We find lower redistributive efficiency in Southern Europe and the United States and higher efficiency levels in the Nordic and Central European countries and Australia. Second, we use panel regression analysis to identify the determinants of efficiency differences and reveal the crucial role of government quality as well as factors affecting the redistributive profile of fiscal policies.
Originator of the hormesis concept: Rudolf Virchow or Hugo Schulz
Authors: Calabrese EJ
Published: December 2017

In 2006, Henschler disputed the claim of Calabrese and Baldwin that Hugo Schulz should be considered the originator of the hormesis concept. Henschler cited an 1854 paper by Rudolf Virchow on the effects of two agents on the beating of cilia, which showed a hormetic–biphasic dose response. The interpretation of Henschler became broadly accepted over the past decade based on citations in the literature. However, a recent translation of the Virchow paper from German into English reveals that the claims of Henschler are not supported by the article.
Bayesian Phase II optimization for time-to-event data based on historical information
Authors: Bertsche Anja , Fleischer Frank , Beyersmann Jan , Nehmiz Gerhard
Published: December 2017

After exploratory drug development, companies face the decision whether to initiate confirmatory trials based on limited efficacy information. This proof-of-concept decision is typically performed after a Phase II trial studying a novel treatment versus either placebo or an active comparator. The article aims to optimize the design of such a proof-of-concept trial with respect to decision making. We incorporate historical information and develop pre-specified decision criteria accounting for the uncertainty of the observed treatment effect. We optimize these criteria based on sensitivity and specificity, given the historical information. Specifically, time-to-event data are considered in a randomized 2-arm trial with additional prior information on the control treatment. The proof-of-concept criterion uses treatment effect size, rather than significance. Criteria are defined on the posterior distribution of the hazard ratio given the Phase II data and the historical control information. Event times are exponentially modeled within groups, allowing for group-specific conjugate prior-to-posterior calculation. While a non-informative prior is placed on the investigational treatment, the control prior is constructed via the meta-analytic-predictive approach. The design parameters including sample size and allocation ratio are then optimized, maximizing the probability of taking the right decision. The approach is illustrated with an example in lung cancer.
Estimation of the relative difference (or relative risk reduction) under the sequential parallel comparison design
Authors: Lui Kung-Jong
Published: December 2017

To increase power or reduce the number of patients needed in trials studying treatments for psychiatric or mental disorders with a high placebo response rate, we may consider use of the sequential parallel comparison design proposed elsewhere. Because statistical significance does not necessarily imply that the difference between treatment and placebo is of clinical importance, it is always of importance to quantify the treatment effect in clinical trials. When the patient responses are dichotomous, the treatment and other covariates effects are not likely additive. Thus, using a weighted average of the risk differences over two phases may not be a meaningful summary index to measure the treatment effect. To alleviate this concern, we consider use of the relative difference or relative risk reduction to measure the treatment effect. We derive both point and interval estimators for the relative difference by use of the weighted-least-squares estimator and Mantel-Haenszel type estimator. We employ Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the finite-sample performance of these estimators in a variety of situations. We also include a procedure for testing the homogeneity of the relative difference between phases under the sequential parallel comparison design. We use the placebo-controlled study to assess the efficacy of a low dose of aripiprazole adjunctive to antidepressant therapy in the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder to illustrate the use of estimators developed here.
A test of inflated zeros for Poisson regression models
Authors: He Hua , Zhang Hui , Ye Peng , Tang Wan
Published: December 2017

Excessive zeros are common in practice and may cause overdispersion and invalidate inference when fitting Poisson regression models. There is a large body of literature on zero-inflated Poisson models. However, methods for testing whether there are excessive zeros are less well developed. The Vuong test comparing a Poisson and a zero-inflated Poisson model is commonly applied in practice. However, the type I error of the test often deviates seriously from the nominal level, rendering serious doubts on the validity of the test in such applications. In this paper, we develop a new approach for testing inflated zeros under the Poisson model. Unlike the Vuong test for inflated zeros, our method does not require a zero-inflated Poisson model to perform the test. Simulation studies show that when compared with the Vuong test our approach not only better at controlling type I error rate, but also yield more power.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability (CSRS) Initiatives among European and Asian Business Schools: A Web-based Content Analysis
Authors: Rehman Mohsin Abdur , Kashif Muhammad , Mingione Michela
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study is to explore the extent to which MBA programmes offered by top European and Asian B-schools have a corporate social responsibility and sustainability (CSRS) orientation as per their websites. The websites of top-200 (based on the QS Global Business and Management University Rankings 2015) European and Asian B-schools were explored and content analysed to reach meaningful conclusions. The findings reveal European B-schools have much stronger CSRS orientation once compared with the Asian B-schools. Furthermore, only few B-schools promote CSRS centres on their websites which has some useful practical implications. This is the first study to explore the CSRS orientation among top-200 European and Asian B-schools based on an analysis of their respective websites. Additionally, a cross-continental comparison between European and Asian MBA programmes is unique to this study. The results have implications for global managers, in general, and business school policymakers, in specific, to embark the CSR initiatives to gain competitive advantage.
Comparison of reverse-transcription real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry for the detection of canine distemper virus infection in raccoons in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Nemeth Nicole M. , Oesterle Paul T. , Campbell G. Douglas , Ojkic Davor , Jardine Claire M.
Published: December 2017

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a widespread morbillivirus that causes subclinical to fatal infections in domestic and wild carnivores. Raccoons ( Procyon lotor) are CDV reservoirs and suffer from associated disease. Aspects of pathogenesis may lead to difficulty in the interpretation of commonly used testing modalities, such as reverse-transcription real-time (RT-rt)PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The reliance upon such tests is greater for wildlife, which are often submitted as carcasses with no clinical history. We compared CDV RT-rtPCR results to immunohistochemistry (the gold standard) in tissues from 74 raccoons. These tests had high kappa agreement (lymph node: 0.9335; lung: 0.8671) and a negative correlation between IHC score and threshold cycle (Ct) value for lymph node and lung (Spearman rank correlation coefficient [ rs] = −0.8555 and −0.8179, respectively; p < 0.00001). An RT-rtPCR Ct value of 30 in lung and lymph node with sensitivity and specificity of 92.3 and 92.6% and 86.8 and 96.4%, respectively, was suitable for determining CDV involvement. Conjunctival swabs provide an alternative for distemper diagnosis, as there was a strong correlation between Ct values of conjunctival swabs and tissues ( rs = −0.8498, p < 0.00001, n = 46). This information will aid in more efficient and accurate diagnoses in individuals, small-scale outbreaks, and epidemiologic investigations in wildlife.
Comparison of two methods for measurement of equine adrenocorticotropin
Authors: Banse Heidi E. , Schultz Nichol , McCue Molly , Geor Ray , McFarlane Dianne
Published: December 2017

Accurate measurement of equine adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) is important for the diagnosis of equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). Several radioimmunoassays (RIAs) and chemiluminescent immunoassays (CIAs) are used for measurement of ACTH concentration in horses; whether these methods yield similar results across a range of concentrations is not determined. We evaluated agreement between a commercial RIA and CIA. Archived plasma samples ( n = 633) were measured with both assays. Correlation between the 2 methods was moderate ( r = 0.49, p < 0.001). Bland–Altman analysis revealed poor agreement, with a proportional bias and widening limits of agreement with increasing values. Poor agreement between assays was also observed when evaluating plasma samples with concentrations at or below the recommended diagnostic cutoff value for PPID testing. The lack of agreement suggests that measurements obtained should not be considered interchangeable between methods.
Long-Term Effects of Research-Based and Practice-Based Job Search Interventions: An RCT Reevaluation
Authors: Malmberg-Heimonen Ira Elena , West Brady T. , Vuori Jukka
Published: December 2017

Objective:

This study reevaluates the effects of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of job search interventions on labor force participation. In the trial, various methods of job search interventions were included, of which about half were research-based JOBS (Job Opportunity and Basic Skills) interventions and the other half were practice-based, that is, without a theoretical or empirical base. This study compares effects of the research-based and practice-based interventions.

Methods:

The trial included data from 1998 to 2000 of 1,013 unemployed people in Finland with 3-year follow-up data from official labor market records. Multilevel multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze the intervention effects on labor market outcomes.

Results:

The results demonstrated that beneficial long-term effects were produced only in interventions based on the research-based JOBS method for participants at risk of baseline depression. In contrast, the practice-based interventions seemed to have adverse effects on employment.

Conclusions:

These findings indicate the importance of research-based interventions within active labor market policies.
Maternal Knowing and Social Networks: Understanding First-Time Mothers’ Search for Information and Support Through Online and Offline Social Networks
Authors: Price Sheri Lynn , Aston Megan , Monaghan Joelle , Sim Meaghan , Tomblin Murphy Gail , Etowa Josephine , Pickles Michelle , Hunter Andrea , Little Victoria
Published: December 2017

The postpartum period is an exciting yet stressful time for first-time mothers, and although the experience may vary, all mothers need support during this crucial period. In Canada, there has been a shift for universal postpartum services to be offered predominantly online. However, due to a paucity of literature, it is difficult to determine the degree to which mothers’ needs are being effectively addressed. The aim of this study was to examine and understand how first-time mothers accessed support and information (online and offline) during the first 6 months of their postpartum period. Using feminist poststructuralism methodology, data were collected from focus groups and e-interviews, and analyzed using discourse analysis. Findings indicate that peer support is greatly valued, and mothers often use social media to make in-person social connections. Findings highlight how accessing support and information is socially and institutionally constructed and provide direction for health professionals to provide accessible postpartum care.
“Life Within the Person Comes to The Fore”: Pastoral Workers’ Practice Wisdom on Using Arts in Palliative Care
Authors: O’Callaghan Clare , Byrne Libby , Cokalis Eleni , Glenister David , Santilli Margaret , Clark Rose , McCarthy Therese , Michael Natasha
Published: December 2017

Background:

Pastoral care (also chaplaincy, spiritual care) assists people to find meaning, personal resources, and connection with self, others, and/or a higher power. Although essential in palliative care, there remains limited examination of what pastoral workers do. This study examined how pastoral workers use and consider the usefulness of art-based modalities.

Methods:

Qualitative research was used to examine the practice wisdom (tacit practice knowledge) of pastoral workers experienced in using visual arts and music in palliative care. Two focus groups were conducted. Thematic analysis was informed by grounded theory.

Results:

Six pastoral workers shared information. Three themes emerged. First, pastoral workers use arts as “another tool” to extend scope of practice by assisting patients and families to symbolically and more deeply contemplate what they find “sacred.” Second, pastoral workers’ art affinities inform their aims, assessments, and interactions. Third, pastoral workers perceive that art-based modalities can validate, enlighten, and transform patients and families through enabling them to “multisensorially” (through many senses) feel recognized, accepted, empowered, and/or close to God. Key elements involved in the work’s transformative effects include enabling beauty, ritual, and the sense of “home” being heard, and legacy creation.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Pastoral workers interpret that offering art-based modalities in palliative care can help patients and families to symbolically deal with painful memories and experiences, creatively engage with that deemed significant, and/or encounter a sense of transcendence. Training in generalist art-based care needs to be offered in pastoral education.
Political Elites, Crime, and Trust in the Police in Latin America
Authors: Liebertz Scott
Published: December 2017

This article examines the effect of crime on support for criminal justice systems in Latin America. Scholars empirically demonstrate a strong negative effect of crime on support for institutions and satisfaction with democracy. Others provide thick descriptions of the prevalence of creeping authoritarianism in response to crime—the infamous “mano dura” or “iron fist.” I test the effectiveness of elite political messaging across different countries. In other words, do politicians that promote “iron-fist” policies reassure their intended audience and shore up support for the police and the criminal justice system? Analyzing survey data from the Latin American Public Opinion Project and Wiesehomeier and Benoit’s expert survey of Latin American political party platforms, I find that elite political opinion about insecurity conditions the effect of crime victimization and fear of crime on mass support for the police and the justice system as well as on perceptions of police and justice system effectiveness. When political elites emphasize mano dura (“iron fist”) solutions, fearful citizens and victims are less critical of the police and the justice system in general.