bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aging in Puerto Rico: A Comparison of Health Status Among Island Puerto Rican and Mainland U.S. Older Adults
Authors: Pérez Catherine , Ailshire Jennifer A.
Published: June 2017

Objective: To characterize the health status of older island Puerto Ricans, a segment of the U.S. population that has been largely overlooked in aging research. Method: Data from the 2002 Puerto Rican Elderly Health Conditions Project and the 2002 Health and Retirement Study are used to examine differences in disease, disability, and self-rated health among island Puerto Ricans and the mainland U.S.-born older adult population. Differences are further examined by gender. Results: Island Puerto Ricans were less likely to have heart disease, stroke, lung disease, cancer, activities of daily living (ADL) limitations, and poor self-rated health, but more likely to have hypertension and diabetes. Island Puerto Rican women had worse health relative to island Puerto Rican men. Discussion: Recent challenges in the funding and provision of health care in Puerto Rico are worrisome given the large number of aging island adults, many of whom have hypertension and diabetes, two conditions that require long-term medical care.
On repression and its effectiveness
Authors: Dragu Tiberiu
Published: June 2017

Do electoral incentives to stop a terrorist attack before the next election induce democratic governments to undertake ineffective counterterrorism policies? This article shows that shortsighted electoral motivations are not a sufficient explanation for why governments engage in counterproductive repression when responding to electoral pressures to safeguard security. It develops a game-theoretic model to show that limitations on observability of counterterrorism activities are an important factor for understanding why electoral pressures might induce democratic governments to choose ineffective security policies. The model also allows us to systematically investigate the conditions under which repressive counterterrorism is more likely to aggravate the terrorist threat, and has empirical and policy implications regarding the relationship between repression and its (in)effectiveness when democratic societies strive to counter the threat of terrorism.
A new model and metaheuristic approach for the energy-based resource-constrained scheduling problem
Authors: Morillo Torres Daniel , Barber Federico , Salido Miguel A
Published: June 2017

This article focuses on obtaining sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for limited resource programming problems. To this end, a model for integrating [Formula: see text] and energy consumption objectives in multi-mode resource-constrained project scheduling problems (MRCPSP-ENERGY) is proposed. In addition, a metaheuristic approach for the efficient resolution of these problems is developed. In order to assess the appropriateness of theses proposals, the well-known Project Scheduling Problem Library is extended (called PSPLIB-ENERGY) to include energy consumption to each Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem instance through a realistic mathematical model. This extension provides an alternative to the current trend of numerous research works about optimization and the manufacturing field, which require the inclusion of components to reduce the environmental impact on the decision-making process. PSPLIB-ENERGY is available at http://gps.webs.upv.es/psplib-energy/ .
Investigation on an industrial-feasible approach for measurement and assessment of large-sized micro-structured surfaces based on grayscale matching
Authors: Huang Honghui , Ding Hui , Cheng Kai , Zhao Liang , Ma Shuwen
Published: June 2017

Multi-scale micro-structured functional surfaces can enhance the interfacial effect on a component by the microtopological structure, likely through realizing or enhancing its lubrication, drag reduction, noise reducing, sealing, and other specific surface functions. However, the realization of these functions requires high-precision machining quality and the occurrence of any defects on the structured surfaces will possibly influence actual performances of the component. The distribution density, morphology, geometry, configuration feature, and position of those microstructures play a decisive role in affecting the functional performance of the component. It imposes a challenge for rapid and accurate measurement of micro-structured surface particularly at a reasonable large size in industrial-scale production. This article presents an innovative industrial-feasible measurement method for micro-structured surfaces using normalized grayscale matching combined with pyramid search strategy, discriminating-step matching strategy, and sensitive area analysis. The method renders the high matching accuracy and rapid processing capability, which also provides the technical solution for industrial-scale micromanufacturing of large-sized micro-structured surfaces. Well-designed experimental trials are carried out to further evaluate and validate the measurement accuracy and efficiency.
Stable control of a heterogeneous platoon of vehicles with switched interaction topology, time-varying communication delay and lag of actuator
Authors: Chehardoli Hossein , Homaeinezhad MR
Published: June 2017

This paper is devoted to the study of longitudinal control of heterogeneous vehicular platoons with constant spacing policy between successive vehicles. In order to provide a more precise model, communication delays are assumed to be non-uniform and time-varying. A linear control based on relative measurements by considering communication delay and lag is used as the upper level control of each vehicle. In a vehicular platoon, the time-varying communication topology may be a source of instability of the closed-loop dynamics. Therefore, to perform the stability analysis using common Lyapunov function, three new methods based on Lyapunov–Razumikhin and Lyapunov–Krasovskii theorems are introduced. The results of these methods prove the global asymptotic stability of the resultant switched linear time-varying delay systems. A comparison between the proposed methods indicates that the Krasovskii-based approach is more robust against communication delay and lag than the Razumikhin-based approaches. Several simulation studies are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Vehicle creep control based on nonlinear robust method for dual-clutch transmission
Authors: Zhou Bin , Lu Tongli , Zhang Jianwu , Hao Hongtao
Published: June 2017

This article proposed a nonlinear robust controller to achieve vehicle creep for dual-clutch transmission. The control problem is summarized as the tracking control, and linear quadratic approach is adopted to define the trajectory of the clutch slip before the controller design. The control scheme is derived from an error affine nonlinear system; meanwhile, by combining nonlinear H∞ method with the backstepping technique, the nonlinear controller is programmed to achieve the tracking of the clutch slip trajectory against the model uncertainties or disturbance. The designed controller is evaluated by simulation model including the dynamic powertrain and hydraulic actuator model, and the results show that the nonlinear controller is effective in clutch slip tracking control and has better control performance than that of the proportional–integral–derivative in terms of disturbance attenuation.
Mycobacterioses in dogs and cats from Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Barandiaran Soledad , Martínez Vivot Marcela , Falzoni Elvira , Marfil María J. , Pérez Tort Gabriela , Rovatti Paula , Fernández Mónica , Iachini Ricardo , Satek Fernanda , Duchene Adriana , Zumárraga Martín J.
Published: June 2017

Mycobacterioses can produce nonspecific clinical signs in dogs and cats that make diagnosis difficult. Furthermore, the full characterization of mycobacterial agents is not always possible or practical. We characterized mycobacteria detected through cytology in 12 dogs and 7 cats with generalized clinical signs from the province of Buenos Aires in Argentina. In dogs, molecular testing confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis (MAH) in 8 cases and M. fortuitum in 1 case. All dogs were Miniature Schnauzers, suggesting that this breed may be more susceptible to M. avium than other dog breeds. The cat isolates were 2 M. bovis, 1 M. fortuitum, and 1 MAH. Mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit–variable-number tandem repeat patterns suggested possible links with cattle, swine, and humans studied previously in Argentina. The results show that pets may act as susceptible hosts with the potential risk of transmitting the infection to humans and other animals.
Blackleg in cattle: A case report of fetal infection and a literature review
Authors: Abreu Camila C. , Edwards Erin E. , Edwards John F. , Gibbons Philippa M. , Leal de Araújo Jeann , Rech Raquel R. , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: June 2017

Clostridium chauvoei causes blackleg in cattle. The disease has been reported worldwide, and although it can be prevented by vaccination, sporadic cases and occasional outbreaks still occur. We describe a case of blackleg in a 2-y-old, pregnant Gyr cow with in utero transmission to the fetus. The cow had characteristic gross and microscopic lesions of blackleg including widespread necrohemorrhagic and emphysematous skeletal and myocardial myositis, and fibrinous pericarditis. Her uterus contained a near-term, markedly emphysematous fetus with skeletal muscle and myocardial lesions similar to those seen in the dam. Histopathology of dam and fetal tissues revealed numerous gram-positive bacilli, many of them with sub-terminal spores, in multiple tissues. These bacilli were identified as C. chauvoei by immunohistochemistry. Anaerobic culture and fluorescent antibody tests performed on skeletal muscle from both the dam and fetus were positive for C. chauvoei, confirming a diagnosis of blackleg. Blackleg is a so-called endogenous infection, and the currently accepted pathogenesis involves ingestion of spores that are transported to muscle tissues where they lie dormant until anaerobiosis prompts germination. Germinating bacteria are histotoxic, producing severe, local necrosis and ultimately lethal toxemia. This model, however, has not been confirmed experimentally and also fails to explain some cases of the disease. A presumptive diagnosis of blackleg is based on clinical, gross, and histologic findings. Diagnostic confirmation necessitates the detection of C. chauvoei by culture, PCR, or immunodetection methods.
A survey of methods used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing in veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the United States
Authors: Dargatz David A. , Erdman Matthew M. , Harris Beth
Published: June 2017

Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat to animal and human health worldwide, requiring a collaborative, holistic approach. The U.S. Government has developed a national strategy to address antimicrobial resistance, with one component being to monitor antimicrobial resistance in agricultural settings. We developed a survey to collect information about antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) from the veterinary diagnostic laboratory community in the United States, assessing current practices and technologies and determining how AST information is shared. Of the 132 surveys administered, 52 (39%) were returned. Overall, responding laboratories conducted susceptibility tests on 98,788 bacterial isolates in 2014, with Escherichia coli being the most common pathogen tested across all animal species. The 2 most common AST methods employed were the disk diffusion method (71%) and the Sensititre platform broth microdilution system (59%). Laboratories primarily used the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) VET-01 standard (69%) and the automatically calculated interpretations provided by the commercial AST systems (61%) for interpreting their AST data. Only 22% of laboratories published AST data on a periodic basis, usually via annual reports published on the laboratory’s website or through peer-reviewed journals for specific pathogens. Our results confirm that disk diffusion and broth microdilution remain the standard AST methods employed by U.S. veterinary diagnostic laboratories, and that CLSI standards are commonly used for interpreting AST results. This information will help determine the most efficient standardized methodology for future surveillance. Furthermore, the current infrastructure within laboratories, once harmonized, will help provide a mechanism for conducting national surveillance programs.
From the Children’s Oncology Group: Evidence-Based Recommendations for PEG-Asparaginase Nurse Monitoring, Hypersensitivity Reaction Management, and Patient/Family Education
Authors: Woods Deborah , Winchester Kari , Towerman Alison , Gettinger Katie , Carey Christina , Timmermann Karen , Langley Rachel , Browne Emily
Published: June 2017

PEG-aspariginase is a backbone chemotherapy agent in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia and in some non-Hodgkin lymphoma therapies. Nurses lack standardized guidelines for monitoring patients receiving PEG-asparaginase and for educating patients/families about hypersensitivity reaction risks. An electronic search of 6 databases using publication years 2000-2015 and multiple professional organizations and clinical resources was conducted. Evidence sources were reviewed for topic applicability. Each of the final 23 sources was appraised by 2 team members. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system was used to assign a quality and strength rating for each recommendation. Multiple recommendations were developed: 4 relating to nurse monitoring of patients during and after drug administration, 8 guiding hypersensitivity reaction management, and 4 concerning patient/family educational content. These strong recommendations were based on moderate, low, or very-low-quality evidence. Several recommendations relied on generalized drug hypersensitivity guidelines. Additional research is needed to safely guide PEG-asparaginase monitoring, hypersensitivity reaction management, and patient/family education. Nurses administering PEG-asparaginase play a critical role in the early identification and management of hypersensitivity reactions.
Responding to Bullying Victimization: Comparative Analysis of Victimized Students in General and Special Education
Authors: Hartley Michael T. , Bauman Sheri , Nixon Charisse L. , Davis Stan
Published: June 2017

Focused on 3,305 students who self-reported frequent bullying victimization, this study compared the use and effectiveness of responses to address bullying victimization among students in special education, as compared with students in general education. Students in special education were less likely to make a joke, but more likely to tell the aggressor how they felt, hit the aggressor, and tell an adult at school and home, according to self-report. Furthermore, students in special education were significantly more likely to report that “things got worse” after using each response. Implications for educational policy and future research are discussed.

Correction notice for ‘Responding to Bullying Victimization: Comparative Analysis of Victimized Students in General and Special Education’ by Michael T. Hartley, Sheri Bauman, Charisse L. Nixon, and Stan Davis, published in the Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 2017, Vol. 28(2) 77–89, DOI 10.1177/1044207317710700

This article reviews data from the Youth Voice Project national study of U.S. students in Grades 5 through 12 (Davis & Nixon, youthviolenceproject.com). The authors also referred to data from the Youth Voice Project in their article titled ‘Comparative Study of Bullying Victimization Among Students in General and Special Education’ by Hartley, Bauman, Nixon, and Davis, published in Exceptional Children, 2015, Vol. 81(2) 176–193, DOI: 10.1177/0014402914551741 (the “2015 Article”), which examined victimization of special education students and general education students by bullies. Accordingly, this article includes similar themes, scholarship, and methods as their 2015 Article. Several sections of the Article reproduce unattributed excerpts that were originally published in the 2015 Article, including portions of Table 1 and text in the sections with headings Introduction, Method, Results, and Limitations, particularly as the sections pertain to the demographic data reported and analyzed. Notwithstanding these similarities, the data analysis in this article differs from the analysis in the 2015 Article. Whereas the 2015 Article examines victimization variables, this article reports specific data about how students address bullying victimization.
Food Insecurity Across the Adult Life Span for Persons With Disabilities
Authors: Brucker Debra L. , Coleman-Jensen Alisha
Published: June 2017

Food insecurity is an inability to afford the food necessary for a healthy, active life. Using pooled data from the 2011–2014 National Health Interview Survey, this study compares food insecurity among young adults, working-age adults, and older adults with and without disabilities. Results confirm that adults with disabilities have higher odds of living in food-insecure households than adults without disabilities. For adults with and without disabilities, working-age persons face the highest levels of food insecurity compared with other age groups. Older adults face the lowest odds of living in food-insecure households. Across all age groups, persons with mental health limitations are particularly vulnerable.
A mesh-size-objective modeling of quasi-brittle material using micro-cell informed damage law
Authors: Liang Shixue , Ren Xiaodan , Li Jie
Published: June 2017

A multi-scale approach for mesh size independent finite element analysis of quasi-brittle material is proposed in this article. The homogenization based multi-scale damage representation is first introduced in obtaining the damage law from micro-cell simulation with consideration of microscopic crack propagation. The key idea to remedy the mesh size sensitivity in the 2D macroscopic finite element analysis is to introduce a damage law directly from the micro-cell simulation, where the micro-cell size should be identical to the macroscopic mesh size. The micro-cells with different sizes are generated and the corresponding simulations are presented in the numerical tests to obtain the micro-cell dependent damage law. The mesh independent finite element analysis results of the notched beam and the double-edge notched specimen affirm the strategy of correcting the mesh sensitivity.
Analyzing patterns of heat generated by the tensile loading of steel rods containing discontinuity-like defects
Authors: Moyseychik Eugeny A , Vavilov Vladimir P
Published: June 2017

Heat generation in steel samples with discontinuity-like defects subjected to tensile loading is analyzed by using the technique of infrared thermography. It is shown that the heat is predominantly generated in shear bands where one observes a considerable rise in temperature. The sample mean temperature is conditioned by the sum of all heat sources (shear bands), as well as the thermal properties of the material and the magnitude of the heat exchange with the environment. It also depends on the mass of elastically deformed material adjacent to the shear bands.
Primary Arthrodesis versus Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Low-Energy Lisfranc Injuries in a Young Athletic Population
Authors: Cochran Grant , Renninger Christopher , Tompane Trevor , Bellamy Joseph , Kuhn Kevin
Published: June 2017

Background:

There are 2 Level I studies comparing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and primary arthrodesis (PA) in high-energy Lisfranc injuries. There are no studies comparing ORIF and PA in young athletic patients with low-energy injuries.

Methods:

All operatively managed low-energy Lisfranc injuries sustained by active duty military personnel at a single institution were identified from 2010 to 2015. The injury pattern, method of treatment, and complications were reviewed. Implant removal rates, fitness test scores, return to military duty rates, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores were compared. Thirty-two patients were identified with the average age of 28 years. PA was performed in 14 patients with ORIF in 18.

Results:

The PA group returned to full duty at an average of 4.5 months whereas the ORIF group returned at an average of 6.7 months ( P = .0066). The PA group ran their fitness test an average of 9 seconds per mile slower than their preoperative average whereas the ORIF group ran it an average of 39 seconds slower per mile ( P = .032). There were no differences between the 2 groups in the FAAM scores at an average of 35 months. Implant removal was performed in 15 (83%) in the ORIF group and 2 (14%) in the PA group ( P = .005).

Conclusions:

Low-energy Lisfranc injuries treated with primary arthrodesis had a lower implant removal rate, an earlier return to full military activity, and better fitness test scores after 1 year, but there was no difference in FAAM scores after 3 years.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative cohort study.
Influence of micro-length-scale parameters and inhomogeneities on the bending, free vibration and wave propagation analyses of a FG Timoshenko’s sandwich piezoelectric microbeam
Authors: Arefi Mohammad , Zenkour Ashraf M
Published: June 2017

In this study, the strain gradient theory is employed to derive governing equations of motion of a functionally graded Timoshenko’s sandwich microbeam resting on Pasternak’s foundation. The microbeam is including a micro-core and two piezoelectric face-sheets on top and bottom. The plate is actuated with applied electric potential at top of piezoelectric face-sheets. The governing equations of motion are derived using Hamilton’s principle and strain gradient theory. After derivation of governing equations of motion, the problem is solved for three classes of analysis including wave propagation, free vibration and bending analysis. The numerical results are presented to reflect the effect of important parameters such as wave number, applied voltage, inhomogeneous index, parameters of foundation and material length-scale parameters on the different responses. The obtained results indicated that changing material length-scale parameters leads to a stiffer structure that increase natural frequencies and decreases transverse deflection and maximum electric potential.
The impact of power and powerlessness on blaming the victim of sexual assault
Authors: Gravelin Claire R. , Biernat Monica , Baldwin Matthew
Published: June 2017

Sexual assault is often described as motivated by power, yet there is relatively little experimental research investigating the effect of power (and powerlessness) on interpretations of a sexual assault. Two studies manipulated participants’ feelings of power prior to a thought-listing task about sexual assault victims (Study 1) or an evaluation of a case of sexual assault (Study 2). Among men, feelings of powerlessness led to reduced victim blaming, while powerlessness tended to increase victim blaming among women (Study 2). These results indicate that powerlessness has different implications for men and women, increasing men’s ability to take the perspective of a victim of sexual assault, but increasing women’s sense of threat and defensiveness. Both studies support a default status explanation for men such that feelings of powerlessness—a state that deviates from men’s typical high-power “default” status in society—increase perspective taking and thereby reduce victim blame. Among women, however, powerlessness may trigger a defensive response, resulting in greater blaming.
Fuel poverty in France: Adapting an English methodology to assess the health cost implications
Authors: Ezratty Véronique , Ormandy David , Laurent Marie-Hélène , Duburcq Anne , Lenchi Carole , Boutière Fabienne , Cabanes Pierre-André , Lambrozo Jacques
Published: June 2017

Over five million households in France are estimated to be in fuel poverty and so possibly exposed to low indoor temperatures. Such exposure is a threat to health. Besides the individual’s suffering, negative health outcomes, ranging from mild respiratory conditions to death, create demands on the health sector and costs to society. The health costs associated with energy inefficient dwellings have been calculated in England using a method based on the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS); a health-based risk assessment system, adopted in 2006 as the prescribed statutory method for appraising housing conditions in England and Wales. The aim of this study was to use the English approach to estimate the health costs attributable to energy inefficient dwellings and energy vulnerability in France, and to analyse the cost benefits of thermal upgrades. This article details the methodology used to match the English and French housing energy efficiency assessment to provide the foundation necessary for the estimation of costs. This work has demonstrated that it is practicable to adapt the English HHSRS based approach, so that it can be used in another country such as France.
Full-scale evaluation of fire-resistant building integrated photovoltaic systems with different installation positions of junction boxes
Authors: Huang Yen-Chieh , Lee Shin-Ku , Chan Chi-Chang , Wang Shui-Jinn
Published: June 2017

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are a promising strategy to integrate photovoltaic (PV) systems with building materials to reduce construction costs and add aesthetic features. In this study, a fire test in accordance with ISO 834-1:1999, CNS 14803-2010 and ISO 3008:2007 to provide the standard heating curve was carried out to investigate the fire-resistant characteristics based on the breaking behaviour and surface temperature distribution of type I and type II BIPV modules. The BIPV modules tested have both open and hidden junction-box (J-box) designs, with the aim of reducing fire risks. Our results show that the proposed type II BIPV module could resist the simulated room fire test for about 12 min without reducing any risk with regard to the J-box. Furthermore, the type II BIPV module could resist a fire test at temperatures of up to ∼1000℃ for 60 min with better compartment functionality when refractory glasses are employed. The BIPV fire test data reported in this study can help to improve the design and development of BIPV systems.
The bacterial composition of ventilation filter dust in Norwegian pre-school nurseries
Authors: Nygaard Anders B , Charnock Colin
Published: June 2017

The microbial content of dust collected from intake and exhaust air filters in six Norwegian nurseries was determined using 16S rRNA pyrosequencing and plate count analyses. The concentration of endotoxins was also estimated. About 96% of the sequences were classified as Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Cyanobacteria. At the genus level, about 30% of sequences from the exhaust filter were classified as bacteria of probable human origin, such as Streptococcus and Corynebacterium species. These were close to absent in intake dust samples (<1%). This suggests that occupancy shapes the indoor microbiota, creating an environment relatively rich in genera of potential health significance. There were significantly greater counts of culturable bacteria and fungi in exhaust samples, indicating that passage of air through the nursery causes deterioration in the general air quality. Although there was more endotoxin in exhaust dust, the endotoxin levels per colony forming unit were similar in both samples. This study explores, for the first time, the bacterial composition of ventilation filter dust in Norwegian nurseries, and is important as it reveals what types of microorganisms nursery users are exposed to. In addition to possible direct health issues, the nature of our early exposure to microbes may be significant in the development of immunological conditions.
Writing as defamiliarization processes: An alternative approach to understanding aesthetic experience in young children’s poetry writing
Authors: Hong Huili
Published: June 2017

This article provides a unique lens for understanding young children’s poetry writing. It focuses on defamiliarization as a cultural tool and practice to engage students’ imagination, playfulness, creativity and aesthetic experience into their poetry writing and to experience the world differently and aesthetically. The research aims of this article are (a) to examine how familiar things were defamiliarized in children’s poetry writing process and poems and (b) to explore what and how aesthetic experiences could result from the defamiliarization process. More specifically, three key literacy events were selected from different writing units during one academic year. Ethnographic discourse analysis was adopted to examine the teacher–student interactive conversations in poetry writing when they defamiliarized their familiar things, places and situation. The data analysis showed that the defamiliarization process made an important contribution to the young writers’ development of language, literacy and their sense of self as a writer. The results exemplified defamiliarization processes as a way to promote the teaching and learning of writing for aesthetic experience beyond linguistic text production. Furthermore, the article provides critical indicators that link children’s writing and multilayered aesthetic experience, and it highlights the critical role of an adult/teacher in channelling children’s affinity with play, imagination, creativity and aesthetic experience into their poetry writing.
The Validity of Major Depression With Seasonal Pattern: Reply to Young (2017)
Authors: LoBello Steven G.
Published: June 2017

Young claims that our argument against a seasonal pattern for major depressive disorder fails because we incorrectly assumed that the seasonal pattern corresponds to what has been called “winter blues.” In doing so he changes the definition of major depression with a seasonal pattern, thereby contradicting the history of the seasonal pattern modifier, recent and current versions of the DSM, and what is taught in prominent introductory and abnormal psychology textbooks. Despite this divergence, both our research and his share important implications for seasonal affective disorder/major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern (MDD-SP) theory and raise questions about the causal influence of sunlight, and resources devoted to treatment of MDD-SP by supplemental light exposure. Concluding remarks reflect on the process by which the folk theory of winter blues was able to gain and maintain a scientific interpretation.
Transportation Barriers and Use of Dental Services among Medicaid-Insured Adults
Authors: McKernan S.C. , Reynolds J.C. , Ingleshwar A. , Pooley M. , Kuthy R.A. , Damiano P.C.
Published: June 2017

This study explores how travel distance and other transportation barriers are associated with dental utilization in a Medicaid expansion population. We analyzed data from the Iowa Dental Wellness Plan (DWP), which provides comprehensive dental benefits for low-income adults aged 19 to 64 y as part of Iowa’s Medicaid expansion. Transportation and geographical characteristics were evaluated as enabling factors within the framework of Andersen’s behavioral model of health services use. In March 2015, a random sample of DWP members ( n = 4,800) was surveyed; adjusted survey response rate was 30% ( n = 1,258).The questionnaire was based on the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Dental Plan Survey and assessed need for dental care, use of dental services and transportation to visits, and self-perceived oral health status. Respondent and dentist addresses were geocoded and used to calculate distance to the nearest DWP general dentist. A logistic regression model predicting utilization of dental care was developed using variables representing each domain of the behavioral model. Most respondents (57%) reported a dental visit since enrolling. Overall, 11% of respondents reported unmet dental need due to transportation problems. Median distance to the nearest general dentist was 1.5 miles. In the adjusted model, travel distance was not significantly associated with the likelihood of dental utilization. However, other transportation-related issues were significantly associated with utilization, including concern about cost of transportation and driver/passenger status. As concern about transportation cost increased, likelihood of having a dental visit decreased. Targeted approaches to assisting low-income populations with transportation barriers should be considered in designing policies and interventions to improve access to dental care.

Knowledge Transfer Statement: The results of this study can be used by policy makers and public health planners when designing programs and interventions to improve access to dental care. Consideration of transportation availability and costs could improve utilization of routine dental care, especially among low-income populations.
Ethical considerations in genomic testing for hematologic disorders
Authors: Marron Jonathan M. , Joffe Steven
Published: June 2017

As our technological capacities improve, genomic testing is increasingly integrating into patient care. The field of clinical hematology is no exception. Genomic testing carries great promise, but several ethical issues must be considered whenever such testing is performed. This review addresses these ethical considerations, including issues surrounding informed consent and the uncertainty of the results of genomic testing; the challenge of incidental findings; and possible inequities in access to and benefit from such testing. Genomic testing is likely to transform the practice of both benign and malignant hematology, but clinicians must carefully consider these core ethical issues in order to make the most of this exciting and evolving technology.
Genetic predisposition to hematologic malignancies: management and surveillance
Authors: Godley Lucy A. , Shimamura Akiko
Published: June 2017

As individuals with germ line predisposition to hematologic malignancies are diagnosed with increasing frequency, the need for clinical surveillance has become apparent. Unfortunately, few prospective data are available, so recommendations are based on collective experience and expert consensus. There is general agreement to advocate for expert consultation or referral of patients to centers with expertise in these syndromes, since presentations and disease progression can be subtle, and treatment strategies must be tailored. Here, we summarize and integrate expert consensus recommendations and medical management considerations for the patient newly diagnosed with a leukemia predisposition disorder. Indications to consider additional studies and referral for allogeneic stem cell transplantation are also discussed.
How I treat double-hit lymphoma
Authors: Friedberg Jonathan W.
Published: June 2017

The 2016 revision of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification for lymphoma has included a new category of lymphoma, separate from diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, termed high-grade B-cell lymphoma with translocations involving myc and bcl-2 or bcl-6. These lymphomas, which occur in <10% of cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, have been referred to as double-hit lymphomas (or triple-hit lymphomas if all 3 rearrangements are present). It is important to differentiate these lymphomas from the larger group of double-expressor lymphomas, which have increased expression of MYC and BCL-2 and/or BCL-6 by immunohistochemistry, by using variable cutoff percentages to define positivity. Patients with double-hit lymphomas have a poor prognosis when treated with standard chemoimmunotherapy and have increased risk of central nervous system involvement and progression. Double-hit lymphomas may arise as a consequence of the transformation of the underlying indolent lymphoma. There are no published prospective trials in double-hit lymphoma, however retrospective studies strongly suggest that aggressive induction regimens may confer a superior outcome. In this article, I review my approach to the evaluation and treatment of double-hit lymphoma, with an eye toward future clinical trials incorporating rational targeted agents into the therapeutic armamentarium.
Can psychobiotics intake modulate psychological profile and body composition of women affected by normal weight obese syndrome and obesity? A double blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: De Lorenzo Antonino , Costacurta Micaela , Merra Giuseppe , Gualtieri Paola , Cioccoloni Giorgia , Marchetti Massimiliano , Varvaras Dimitrios , Docimo Raffaella , Di Renzo Laura
Published: June 2017

Background

Evidence of probiotics effects on gut function, brain activity and emotional behaviour were provided. Probiotics can have dramatic effects on behaviour through the microbiome–gut–brain axis, through vagus nerve. We investigated whether chronic probiotic intake could modulate psychological state, eating behaviour and body composition of normal weight obese (NWO) and preobese–obese (PreOB/OB) compared to normal weight lean women (NWL).

Methods

60 women were enrolled. At baseline and after a 3-week probiotic oral suspension (POS) intake, all subjects underwent evaluation of body composition by anthropometry and dual X-ray absorptiometry, and psychological profile assessment by self-report questionnaires (i.e. EDI-2, SCL90R and BUT). Statistical analysis was carried out using paired t test or a non-parametric Wilcoxon test to evaluate differences between baseline and after POS intake, one-way ANOVA to compare all three groups and, where applicable, Chi square or t test were used to assess symptoms.

Results

Of the 48 women that concluded the study, 24% were NWO, 26% were NWL and 50% were PreOB/OB. Significant differences in body composition were highlighted among groups both at baseline and after a POS (p < 0.05). After POS intake, a significant reduction of BMI, resistance, FM (kg and %) (p < 0.05), and a significant increase of FFM (kg and  %) (p < 0.05) were observed in all subjects in NOW and PreOB/OB. After POS intake, reduction of bacterial overgrowth syndrome (p < 0.05) and lower psychopathological scores (p < 0.05) were observed in NWO and PreOB/OB women. At baseline and after POS intake, all subjects tested were negative to SCL90R_GSI scale, but after treatment subjects positive to BUT_GSI scale were significantly reduced (8.33%) (p < 0.05) compared to the baseline (33.30%). In NWO and PreOB/OB groups significant differences (p < 0.05) in response to the subscales of the EDI-2 were observed. Significant improvement of the orocecal transit time was observed (p < 0.05) after POS intake. Furthermore, significant differences were observed for meteorism (p < 0.05) and defecation frequency (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

A 3-week intake of selected psychobiotics modulated body composition, bacterial contamination, psychopathological scores of NWO and PreOB/OB women. Further research is needed on a larger population and for a longer period of treatment before definitive conclusions can be made.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Id: NCT01890070
Prognostic factors for head and neck cancer of unknown primary including the impact of human papilloma virus infection
Authors: Axelsson Lars , Nyman Jan , Haugen-Cange Hedda , Bove Mogens , Johansson Leif , De Lara Shahin , Kovács Anikó , Hammerlid Eva
Published: June 2017

Background

Head and neck cancer of unknown primary (HNCUP) is rare and prospective studies are lacking. The impact of different prognostic factors such as age and N stage is not completely known, the optimal treatment is not yet established, and the reported survival rates vary. In the last decade, human papilloma virus (HPV) has been identified as a common cause of and important prognostic factor in oropharyngeal cancer, and there is now growing interest in the importance of HPV for HNCUP. The aim of the present study on curatively treated HNCUP was to investigate the prognostic importance of different factors, including HPV status, treatment, and overall survival.

Methods

A search for HNCUP was performed in the Swedish Cancer Registry, Western health district, between the years 1992–2009. The medical records were reviewed, and only patients with squamous cell carcinoma or undifferentiated carcinoma treated with curative intent were included. The tumor specimens were retrospectively analyzed for HPV with p16 immunostaining.

Results

Sixty-eight patients were included. The mean age was 59 years. The majority were males, and had N2 tumors. Sixty-nine percent of the tumors were HPV positive using p16 staining. Patients who were older than 70 years, patients with N3-stage tumors, and patients with tumors that were p16 negative had a significantly worse prognosis. The overall 5-year survival rate for patients with p16-positive tumors was 88% vs 61% for p16-negative tumors. Treatment with neck dissection and postoperative radiation or (chemo) radiation had 81 and 88% 5-year survival rates, respectively. The overall and disease-free 5-year survival rates for all patients in the study were 82 and 74%.

Conclusions

Curatively treated HNCUP had good survival. HPV infection was common. Independent prognostic factors for survival were age over 70 years, HPV status and N3 stage. We recommend that HPV analysis should be performed routinely for HNCUP. Treatment with neck dissection and postoperative radiation or (chemo) radiation showed similar survival rates.
Deep seismic reflection data interpretation using balanced filtering method
Authors: Zhang Jin , Wang Yanguo , Nobes David C. , Huang Guangnan , Li Hongxing
Published: June 2017

Inverse [Formula: see text] filtering can perform energy compensation and phase correction of seismic reflection data, but it has an instability problem due to its high-pass characteristics. Although improved methods, such as gain-limited inverse [Formula: see text] filtering and stabilized inverse [Formula: see text] filtering, overcome the instability to some extent, they are not suitable for compensating deep seismic reflection events with weak energy. Focusing on the enhancement of deep seismic events, we have developed a balanced filtering method based on the ratio of the phase-compensated signal to its analytic signal counterpart. The method is insensitive to the depth of seismic records, and it can make shallow and deep seismic records visible simultaneously. When tested on synthetic data and real seismic data, compared with other methods, the balanced filtering method improves the amplitude strength of the deep reflection events and the continuity of shallow and deep seismic events effectively, which makes the deep reflection data easier to interpret.
A multiple level-set method for 3D inversion of magnetic data
Authors: Li Wenbin , Lu Wangtao , Qian Jianliang , Li Yaoguo
Published: June 2017

We have developed a multiple level-set method for inverting magnetic data produced by weak induced magnetization only. The method is designed to deal with a specific class of 3D magnetic inverse problems in which the magnetic susceptibility is known and the objective of the inversion is to find the boundary or geometric shape of the causative bodies. We adopt the conceptual representation of the subsurface geologic structure by a set of magnetic bodies, each having a uniform magnetic susceptibility embedded in a nonmagnetic background. This representation enables us to reformulate the magnetic inverse problem into a domain inverse problem for those unknown domains defining the supports of the magnetic causative bodies. Because each body may take on a variety of shapes, and we may not know the number of bodies a priori either, we use multiple level-set functions to parameterize these domains so that the domain inverse problem can be further reduced to an optimization problem of multiple level-set functions. To efficiently compute gradients of the nonlinear functional arising from the multiple level-set formulation, we take advantage of the rapid decay of the magnetic kernels with distance to significantly speed up the matrix-vector multiplications in the minimization process. We apply the new method to the synthetic and field data sets and determine its effectiveness.
Delusional parasitosis on the psychiatric consultation service – a longitudinal perspective: Case study
Authors: Trenton Adam , Pansare Neha , Tobia Anthony , Bisen Viwek , Kaufman Kenneth R.
Published: June 2017

Background

Delusional parasitosis is infrequently seen in hospital-based consultation–liaison psychiatry.

Aims

Although there are many publications on delusional parasitosis, this report reviews a unique case that was diagnosed during a hospital admission and treated over the next 36 months.

Method

Case report and literature review.

Results

This case report describes a 65-year-old man who was diagnosed with delusional parasitosis during a hospital admission for congestive heart failure and acute kidney injury. A longitudinal description of the patient's condition during the hospital stay and in the 36 months following discharge, during which time he was treated by a consultation psychiatrist, is provided.

Conclusions

In discussing the treatment of a challenging presentation, this case demonstrates the opportunity for consultation psychiatrists to initiate care in patients who might not otherwise seek psychiatric services. Patients with somatic delusions represent one group of patients who are unlikely to independently seek psychiatric treatment.
Pediatric Cancer in Northern Tanzania: Evaluation of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcomes
Authors: Schroeder Kristin , Saxton Anthony , McDade Jessica , Chao Christina , Masalu Nestory , Chao Colin , Wechsler Daniel S. , Likonda Beda , Chao Nelson
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The majority of new diagnoses of pediatric cancer are made in resource-poor countries, where survival rates range from 5% to 25% compared with 80% in high-resource countries. Multiple factors, including diagnostic and treatment capacities and complex socioeconomic factors, contribute to this variation. This study evaluated the available resources and outcomes for pediatric patients with cancer at the first oncology treatment center in northern Tanzania.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were completed from July to August 2015 to determine available staff, hospital, diagnostic, treatment, and supportive care resources. A retrospective review of hospital admissions and clinic visits from January 2010 to August 2014 was completed. A total of 298 patients were identified, and data from 182 patient files were included in this review.

Results

Diagnostic, treatment, and supportive capacities are limited for pediatric cancer care. The most common diagnoses were Burkitt lymphoma (n = 32), other non-Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 26), and Wilms tumor (n = 25). A total of 40% of patients (n = 72) abandoned care. There was a 20% 2-year event-free survival rate, which was significantly affected by patient age, method of diagnosis, and year of diagnosis.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first review of pediatric cancer outcomes in northern Tanzania. The study identified areas for future development to improve pediatric cancer outcomes, which included strengthening of training and diagnostic capacities, development of registries and research databases, and the need for additional research to reduce treatment abandonment.