bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rogue Device Mitigation in the Internet of Things: A Blockchain-Based Access Control Approach
Authors: Javaid Uzair , Jameel Furqan , Javaid Umair , Raza Khan Muhammad Toaha , Jäntti Riku
Published: October 2020

Recent technological developments in wireless and sensor networks have led to a paradigm shift in interacting with everyday objects, which nurtured the concept of Internet of Things (IoT). However, low-powered nature of IoT devices generally becomes a hindrance that makes them vulnerable to a wide array of attacks. Among these, the emergence of rogue devices is quickly becoming a major security concern. Rogue devices are malicious in nature which typically execute different kinds of cyberattacks by exploiting the weaknesses of access control schemes in IoT environments. Therefore, access control is one of the crucial aspects of an IoT ecosystem that defines an entry point for a device or a user in the network. This paper investigates this issue and presents an access control scheme by integrating an IoT network with blockchain technology, thereby arguing to replace the traditional centralized IoT-server architecture with a decentralized one. The blockchain is used with smart contracts to establish a secure platform for device registration. Due to this reason, the IoT devices are first required to register themselves and access the network via contracts thereafter. Moreover, the contracts host a device registry, the access control list, to grant or deny access to devices. This allows the proposed scheme to authorize registered devices only and block unregistered ones, which facilitates the mitigation of rogue devices. To demonstrate the feasibility and improvements of the proposed scheme, security analysis along with in-depth performance evaluation are conducted, where the obtained results indicate its applicability. A case study is also formulated with a comparative analysis that confirms the superior performance of the proposed scheme for low-powered IoT systems.
Incremental Matrix-Based Subspace Method for Matrix-Based Feature Extraction
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyang , Sun Shijie , Wang Wei
Published: October 2020

The matrix-based features can provide valid and interpretable information for matrix-based data such as image. Matrix-based kernel principal component analysis (MKPCA) is a way for extracting matrix-based features. The extracted matrix-based feature is useful to both dimension reduction and spatial statistics analysis for an image. In contrast, the efficiency of MKPCA is highly restricted by the dimension of the given matrix data and the size of the training set. In this paper, an incremental method to extract features of a matrix-based dataset is proposed. The method is methodologically consistent with MKPCA and can improve efficiency through incrementally selecting the proper projection matrix of the MKPCA by rotating the current subspace. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated by performing several experiments on both point and image datasets.
Disturbance Observer-Based Nonsingular Terminal Sliding Mode Control for Spacecraft Electromagnetic Docking
Authors: Zhang Jinghui , Zeng Guoqiang , Zhang Shifeng
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a novel nonlinear sliding mode control scheme that combines on-line model modification, a nonlinear sliding mode controller, and a disturbance observer to solve the essential problems in spacecraft electromagnetic docking control, such as model uncertainties, unknown external disturbances, and inherent strong nonlinearity and coupling. An improved far-field model of electromagnetic force which is much more accurate than the widely used far-field model is proposed to enable the model parameters to be on-line self-adjusting. Then, the relationship between magnetic moment allocation and energy consumption is derived, and the optimal direction of the magnetic moment vector is obtained. Based on the proposed improved far-field model and the research results of magnetic moment allocation law, a fast-nonsingular terminal mode controller driven by a disturbance observer is designed in the presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances. The proposed control method is guaranteed to be chattering-free and to possess superior properties such as finite-time convergence, high-precision tracking, and strong robustness. Two simulation scenarios are conducted to illustrate the necessity of modifying the far-field model and the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. The simulation results indicate the realization of electromagnetic soft docking and validate the merits of the proposed control scheme. In the end of this paper, some conclusions are drawn.
Primer retiro del 10%, segundo retiro del 10% y ¿por qué no retiro de todo el resto?
Authors: Romero Rafael
Published: October 2020

El retiro del 10% ha tenido un impacto positivo en la actividad económico y este ha sido realizado por la mayoría de los afiliados. Dado el “éxito”, en el Congreso cobra forma un segundo retiro el que, si es evaluado con el mismo criterio, seguramente tendrá “similar éxito”. Sin embargo, si este segundo retiro ocurriera, la pregunta sería ¿por qué no permitir el retiro del resto de los fondos de pensiones?. Continuar leyendo...
¿Cómo parar los Abusos de las Grandes Empresas?
Authors: Saavedra Eduardo
Published: October 2020

Qué duda cabe que, gracias al volumen de sus ventas e inversiones, las grandes empresas conducen el crecimiento económico de un país. Sin embargo, en muchos mercados chilenos las grandes empresas han sido condenadas por abusos reiterados en contra de sus clientes, trabajadores y proveedores. Continuar leyendo...
Un mundo sin vacuna
Authors: Perticará Marcela
Published: October 2020

La pandemia generó un drástico deterioro del mercado laboral en general y en particular de ciertos grupos, como jóvenes y mujeres. El empleo asalariado de las mujeres es ahora un 16% más bajo que el año pasado, mientras que el empleo por cuenta propia ha caído 35%. Continuar leyendo...
Emprendimientos dinámicos
Authors: Castillo-Vergara Mauricio
Published: October 2020

Desde algún tiempo la figura del emprendedor había sido romantizada en nuestro país: ese joven creativo que no tiene más recursos que una idea brillante y su esfuerzo, pero que quiere cambiar el mundo. El estallido social y la pandemia solo podrían ser factores que lo harían ampliar su horizonte de ideas, y ante la adversidad ser más creativo. Sin embargo, algunos sostienen que estas circunstancias y adversidades, vinieron a desnudar una realidad en torno al emprendimiento. Continuar leyendo...
Successful Treatment of an Immune-Mediated Colitis Induced by Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy in a Patient with Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Paparoupa Maria , Stupperich Sophie , Goerg-Reifenberg Lisa , Wittig Andreas , Schuppert Frank
Published: October 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been used as immunotherapeutic agents in several malignancies because of their ability to modify the T cell-mediated response against tumor cells. Dual checkpoint inhibition improves remission rates in patients with metastatic melanoma compared to monotherapy. However, a higher incidence of toxicity, including immune-related colitis, has been reported before. A 54-year-old female was diagnosed with malignant melanoma on her left upper arm. Because of progressive metastatic disease, a rescue therapy with nivolumab (Opdivo®) 1 mg/kg and ipilimumab (Yervoy®) 3 mg/kg was initiated and a clinical and radiological remission was achieved. Two weeks after completing the third cycle of the ICI therapy, the patient presented with persistent hemorrhagic diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. A diagnostic colonoscopy revealed multiple ulcerative lesions and hemorrhagic colitis of the sigmoid and rectum. Due to the ongoing treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab, the diagnosis of a checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis was made and immunosuppression with local and systemic steroids, such as mesalazine was initiated. In order to achieve a long-lasting steroids reduction, we decided to start with infliximab (Remicade® 5 mg/kg body weight i.v. every 2 weeks). Clinical remission was achieved and prednisolone could be subsequently discontinued. Infliximab, in combination with mesalazine, could successfully induce a long-lasting remission without steroids. The treatment of ICI-induced colitis did not lead to a reoccurrence of malignant melanoma after 2 years of follow-up.
Applied Ritual: The Application of Blood and Oil on Bodies in the Pentateuchal Sources
Authors: Boyd Samuel L.
Published: October 2020

Source critical analyses of the Pentateuch in recent scholarship have focused primarily on literary means for detecting distinct literary voices, and, in some recent publications, historical aspects of, particularly, the P source. In this article, I formulate a distinct approach to source criticism that supports this resurgence of documentary analysis, examining in particular the ritual of blood and oil daubing on bodies in Exod. 19–24, Lev. 8 and 14. After summarizing the main point at issue (namely, access to the divine), I offer a documentary approach using ritual theory in the study of these texts. Finally, I highlight the manner in which the ritual study of Exod.19–24, Lev. 8 and 14 is consistent with both key historical and recent arguments in the documentary approach to the composition of the Pentateuch.
“Like a Garment Eaten by Moths” (Job 13:28): Clothing, Nudity and Illness in the Book of Job
Authors: Quick Laura
Published: October 2020

The book of Job provides the most complex and detailed descriptions of illness in biblical literature. Less explored are the frequent references made in the text to dressing and undressing. These references demonstrate the various dimensions, contexts and functional roles of clothing in the world of the Hebrew Bible. But as well as references to actual textile items, the book of Job also refers to clothing in a much more symbolic sense. Drawing on sociological and anthropological approaches to dress and the body, I argue that dress and nudity are connected to and in fact a key part of Job’s experience of illness. By unpacking these ideas, we can better comprehend ancient Israelite conceptions of medical anthropology, as well as embodiment more generally.
“Even unto this Bitter Loving”: Unhappiness and Backward Feelings in Ruth
Authors: Graybill Rhiannon
Published: October 2020

Feminist and queer readings of the Hebrew Bible frequently treat the book of Ruth as a “happy object.” At the same time, contextual readings have suggested that Ruth is a narrative of exploitation, including possible sexual exploitation or trafficking. Building on recent scholarship about queer feelings and affect, this article negotiates a reading that takes seriously both the history of lesbian and queer readings of Ruth and Naomi and the critical attention on structures of exploitation. Drawing on Sara Ahmed’s The Promise of Happiness (2010) and Heather Love’s Feeling Backward (2007), I argue for the importance of feeling, especially unhappy or backward feeling, in reading Ruth. My reading also frames the biblical book in conversation with Radclyffe Hall’s classic 1928 lesbian novel (and source for lesbian and queer theory) The Well of Loneliness. By following unhappiness and backwardness in and around Ruth, we are able to snatch a glimpse of queer feeling, and the space of promise it opens.
Ethnography and Biblical Studies: ‘A Land Flowing with Milk and Honey’ as a Case Study for Re-contextualising a Familiar Phrase
Authors: Welton Rebekah
Published: October 2020

The expression ‘a land flowing with milk and honey’ has traditionally been understood to refer to the abundance of food and fertility in the promised land. However, this article argues that this phrase has become overly familiar and thus certain strategies should be employed in order that contemporary, dominating assumptions about milk and honey in biblical texts may be reconsidered. In order that biblical scholars may refrain from imposing their own expectations or ideologies onto the ancient Israelites and Judahites, ethnographic data that exposes us to a diversity of alternative understandings in relation to food are worth being aware of prior to biblical exegesis. Through exposure to the use of dairy products and the connotations of honey as reported in ethnographic scholarship, this article offers a re-conceptualisation of what milk and honey may refer to as a pair in biblical texts. As a consequence, the benefits of such inter-disciplinary methods are made apparent.
Green Goals: The SDGs in Ecological Hermeneutics
Authors: Nilsen Tina Dykesteen
Published: October 2020

The UN’s sustainable development goals (the sdg s) focus on people, planet and prosperity, aiming for a better world. Their underlying principle is the indivisibility of the goals, whether they relate to the environment or to social justice. Despite the growing significance of the sdg s worldwide, few biblical scholars working with ecological hermeneutics refer to them. This article is an invitation to biblical scholars to discuss whether and how ecological hermeneutics could benefit from use of the sdg s. In dialogue with established ecological hermeneutical approaches and their goals, the article considers the potentials and the problems the sdg s have for ecological interpretations of the Bible. The intention is not to give answers, but to raise questions.
All That’s Lost: The Hollowing of Summit Diplomacy in a Socially Distanced World
Authors: Naylor Tristen
Published: October 2020

This essay considers the implications of virtual summits replacing in-person multilateral gatherings of political leaders. Focusing on the loss of physicality, it argues that two critical dimensions of summitry are eliminated in this shift: sublime governance and inter-moments. Drawing on illustrative examples from the Group of 20, it demonstrates that while moving online maintains the formal, procedural interactions around which summits are built, doing so loses these critical elements of summitry which render it a valuable and unique practice in within the overall institution of diplomacy. This move also undercuts the effects of these elements, in the immediate context of a particular summit and more broadly within the international system itself. The elimination of summitry’s performative and interpersonal dimensions fundamentally renders online meetings unable to achieve what in-person summits can. This has acute consequences in the immediate wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and also more generally as diplomacy moves online.
Co-evolution of Diplomacy after the Corona Crisis: An Agenda for Practitioners
Authors: Salinas Pérez Dalya , Canchola Gutiérrez Ulises , López-Portillo José-Juan
Published: October 2020

The ‘corona crisis’ has transformed a generalized and long-standing concern for foreign service reform into an urgent necessity. The reform of the Mexican Foreign Service Law in 2018 offers a valuable example of a recent, comprehensive attempt to prepare a diplomatic apparatus for a context of accelerated change and uncertainty. The authors of this essay, who directly participated in this reform, explain how some of its main features provided them with useful tools to respond effectively to the COVID-19 pandemic from their new posting in Norway. After discussing the lessons from their experiences, they propose an agenda for discussion among practitioners and academics on subjects that must be addressed if diplomacy is to fulfil its urgent role in the construction of a new, post-pandemic world order.
A Silent Quest for New Shīʿa Religious Leaders in Italy
Authors: Mirshahvalad Minoo
Published: October 2020

The special tie between Shīʿas and their religious authority ignites curiosity about the probable evolution of this relationship in a non-Islamic milieu. This paper aims to analyse why the conventional forms of the Shīʿa authority does not suit the life condition in Italy and why there is an implicit demand for new Shīʿa leaders. The answer is given through a two-year empirical research on the Shīʿas’ life in the peninsula. Two factors are deemed responsible of this inadequacy: first, the definition and expectations of the Italian society of the Islamic authority, and second, the Shīʿas’ exigencies that are not met in their relations with the traditional authority.
Gold-Nanoparticle Layer Substrate Assisted Transmission-Mode Laser Desorption for Atmospheric Pressure Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Kim Jae Young , Lim Heejin , Lee Sun Young , Lee Gwanjin , Lim Dong-Kwon , Moon Dae Won , Song Cheol
Published: October 2020

We demonstrate continuous-wave laser-based ambient mass spectrometry imaging with the use of a gold-nanoparticle layer substrate. When a fresh tissue slice is placed on a gold-nanoparticle layer substrate and irradiated with a 532-nm continuous-wave laser, the transmission-mode laser
configuration provides precise desorption performance to facilitate mass spectrometry imaging. The subsequent ionization process with nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma jets generates sufficient amounts of molecular ions. By using this method, micrometer-spatial-resolution mass spectrometry
imaging of humid tissues can be obtained. The gold-nanoparticle layer substrates can be prepared and stored in advance of the experiment, resulting in simplified specimen preparation and an advantage in faster preparing of fresh tissue specimen for analysis.
Martensitic Transformation Behaviors of Compositionally Graded Ti–Ni-Based Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Kim Yeon-Wook , Nam Tae-Hyun , Lee Seong-Min
Published: October 2020

In this study, we demonstrate a simple and effective way to fabricate functionally graded TiNi-based alloys with linear variations of composition and martensitic transformation behavior. Ti50Ni50 and Ti50Ni35Cu15 alloy strips were
fabricated through a melt overflow process. The compositionally graded diffusion couple was fabricated by annealing two strips of different alloy compositions after being placed face to face in a pressing graphite mold. The mechanical properties and martensitic transformation behaviour of
the diffusion couple were analysed by tensile test and DSC. The compositionally graded specimens exhibited unique superelastic property and wide martensitic formation temperature range. Such mechanical and thermal behaviors of the compositionally graded TiNi-based alloy offer good function
and controllability for actuators.
The Equatorial Current System West of the Galápagos Islands during the 2014–16 El Niño as Observed by Underwater Gliders
Authors: Rudnick Daniel L. , Owens W. Brechner , Johnston T. M. Shaun , Karnauskas Kristopher B. , Jakoboski Julie , Todd Robert E.
Published: October 2020

The strong El Niño of 2014–16 was observed west of the Galápagos Islands through sustained deployment of underwater gliders. Three years of observations began in October 2013 and ended in October 2016, with observations at longitudes 93° and 95°W between latitudes 2°N and 2°S. In total, there were over 3000 glider-days of data, covering over 50 000 km with over 12 000 profiles. Coverage was superior closer to the Galápagos on 93°W, where gliders were equipped with sensors to measure velocity as well as temperature, salinity, and pressure. The repeated glider transects are analyzed to produce highly resolved mean sections and maps of observed variables as functions of time, latitude, and depth. The mean sections reveal the structure of the Equatorial Undercurrent (EUC), the South Equatorial Current, and the equatorial front. The mean fields are used to calculate potential vorticity Q and Richardson number Ri. Gradients in the mean are strong enough to make the sign of Q opposite to that of planetary vorticity and to have Ri near unity, suggestive of mixing. Temporal variability is dominated by the 2014–16 El Niño, with the arrival of depressed isopycnals documented in 2014 and 2015. Increases in eastward velocity advect anomalously salty water and are uncorrelated with warm temperatures and deep isopycnals. Thus, vertical advection is important to changes in heat, and horizontal advection is relevant to changes in salt. Implications of this work include possibilities for future research, model assessment and improvement, and sustained observations across the equatorial Pacific.
The drone threat to just war theory: responding to Braun
Authors: Norris Kristopher
Published: October 2020

In this response to Christian Braun’s article in this journal, I argue that the rise of drone warfare against terrorism suggests the necessity of the presumption against war (not its limit) and use the issue to advance this broader debate within just war theory at a pivotal moment in the tradition.
Do family meetings for hospitalised palliative care patients improve outcomes and reduce health care costs? A cluster randomised trial
Authors: Hudson Peter , Girgis Afaf , Thomas Kristina , Philip Jennifer , Currow David C , Mitchell Geoffrey , Parker Deborah , Liew Danny , Brand Caroline , Le Brian , Moran Juli
Published: October 2020

Background:

Family meetings facilitate the exploration of issues and goals of care however, there has been minimal research to determine the benefits and cost implications.

Aims:

To determine: (1) if family caregivers of hospitalised patients referred to palliative care who receive a structured family meeting report lower psychological distress (primary outcome), fewer unmet needs, improved quality of life; feel more prepared for the caregiving role; and receive better quality of end-of-life care; (2) if outcomes vary dependant upon site of care and; (3) the cost-benefit of implementing meetings into routine practice.

Design:

Pragmatic cluster randomised trial involving palliative care patients and their primary family caregivers at three Australian hospitals. Participants completed measures upon admission (Time 1); 10 days later (Time 2) and two months after the patient died (Time 3). Regression analyses, health utilisation and process evaluation were conducted.

Results:

297 dyads recruited; control ( n = 153) and intervention ( n = 144). The intervention group demonstrated significantly lower psychological distress (Diff: –1.68, p < 0.01) and higher preparedness (Diff: 3.48, p = 0.001) at Time 2. No differences were identified based on quality of end of life care or health utilisation measures.

Conclusions:

Family meetings may be helpful in reducing family caregiver distress and enhancing their preparedness for the caregiving role and it appears they may be conducted without increased hospital health utilisation impacts; although opportunity costs need to be considered in order to routinely offer these as a standardised intervention. Additional health economic examination is also advocated to comprehensively understand the cost-benefit implications.

Trial Registration:

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12615000200583
Rare intraspinal clear cell meningioma in children: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hao Zheng , Hu Si , Yu Nian-Zu
Published: October 2020

Meningioma of the spinal canal is very rare. Clear cell meningioma (CCM) with special histological features occurs more commonly in the spinal cord. A review of the published English-language literature identified 40 reported cases of children with intraspinal CCM and this current report presents an additional case of a 3-year-old child with confirmed lumbar CCM. The current case underwent gross total resection of the CCM. At 9 months after the operation, lumbar magnetic resonance imaging was undertaken and confirmed the absence of tumour recurrence. The child was able to walk normally again. During this period, the child did not receive adjuvant treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. An evaluation of the 41 cases demonstrated the following: (i) there was no significant difference between the recurrence rate of females and males; (ii) there was a significant difference in the recurrence rate based on the extent of resection (gross total resection versus partial resection); (iii) the recurrence rate in patients where the number of involved segments ≥3 levels was significantly higher than that in patients where the number of involved segments was 1–2 levels. For children with CCM, complete surgical resection might be an important characteristic for predicting the risk of the recurrence of CCM.
Hybrid surgery for a severe infectious innominate artery pseudoaneurysm compressing the main trachea
Authors: Lian Li-Shan , Zhang Zhe , Feng Hai , Chen Xue-Ming
Published: October 2020

Here, we report a case of an infectious pseudoaneurysm at the root of the innominate artery, compressing the trachea, that resulted in massive hemorrhage due to rupture of the innominate artery. The patient, a 31-year-old man, had complained of persistent fever for 40 days and severe dyspnea for 1 week. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging of neck and thorax showed a pseudoaneurysm originating from the root of the innominate artery that was severely compressing the main trachea. A hybrid surgery strategy was applied. We first implanted a covered stent in the root of the innominate artery. Then, we performed a left-to-right carotid−carotid bypass with a great saphenous vein graft. Finally, we performed a median thoracotomy in which both the pseudoaneurysm and the previously implanted covered stent were successfully extracted. The patient lost strength in the right upper limb muscle on postoperative day 2 but recovered to baseline strength after 3 months. A hybrid surgical technique may represent a practical solution for such conditions.
Rural–Urban Fertility Convergence, Differential Stopping Behavior, and Contraceptive Method Mix in West Bengal, India: A Spatiotemporal Analysis
Authors: Das Kakoli , Ghosh Saswata
Published: October 2020

The present study attempts to understand how the interplay between differential stopping behavior and contraceptive use dynamics may have resulted in the convergence of rural-urban fertility in West Bengal, India. Using data from the National Family Health Surveys and employing sequential logit regressions, we were able to confirm that differential stopping behavior, particularly among the rural women—by adopting contraception at first parity after having a boy, or choosing modern methods over natural methods at second parity after having two successive boys—may be one of the factors that led to the rural-urban convergence of fertility.
Challenges and Opportunities of Field-based Data Collection with a Game. Analysis of the Development and use of a Game to Collect Data on People’s Emotional Experience in their Environment
Authors: Henriet Elisabeth , Burnay Nathalie , Dalimier Joséphine , Hurley Jaycel , Henry Sabine
Published: October 2020

The authors developed and used a game ( Tigo-Tigo) to collect data on people’s emotional experience in their environment in an area hit by a typhoon (Philippines). With the aim of encouraging the use of games for data collection in the field, they provide an in-depth analysis of all phases of the process, from the game development to the experience of the game sessions and the quality of the data produced. Designing a data collection game is creating an immersive experience that get people to share information with the researcher. However challenging to develop as it has to meet both data gathering and game requirements, Tigo-Tigo successfully produced complex data and a positive experience. By following its simple rules, the respondents were led to formulate and share both quantitative (emotion levels) and qualitative (explanations for emotion-environment associations) data. Moreover, the game was motivating and changed the status of participation, as the researchers played with the respondents in an inversed power setting. Finally, its particular interactional structure also improved the quality of the data produced by reducing expectation as well as cultural and translation barriers encountered in the field.
“Walking on Eggshells:” A Qualitative Study of How Friends of Young Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence Perceive Their Role
Authors: McKenzie Mandy , Hegarty Kelsey L. , Palmer Victoria J. , Tarzia Laura
Published: October 2020

Young women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV) are most likely to turn to their friends for help. Although friends can play a critical role in providing support, there is little research that examines friends’ experiences. In this qualitative study, we explored how friends of young women experiencing IPV perceived their role in responding to IPV in the context of friendship. We held in-depth interviews with 15 friends of young women who had experienced IPV and used reflexive thematic analysis to develop key themes from the data. We developed two overarching themes that reflected participants’ perceptions of the roles they had played or considered as a friend in responding to IPV: “taking action” (which included “providing an outsider’s view,” “being an advisor or coach,” “being a protector,” and “taking a stand”); and “being there” (which included “being a listener,” “being a companion” and “being an ally”). Their perceptions were shaped by friendship expectations, as well as by understandings of IPV. However, deciding what role to play in supporting their friend was constructed as challenging due to conflicting expectations that arose in the context of friendship. It involved balancing a perceived responsibility to do what they thought was best for their friend’s well-being, a need to promote honesty and mutuality in the friendship, along with a competing obligation to respect their friend’s choices, maintain her trust and ensure equality in the friendship. Being friends with the abuser as well as with the victim created additional complexities. Based on our findings, we identify key areas to address in developing interventions to assist friends to respond to young women experiencing IPV. These could guide friends on how to play an effective support role while also maintaining the friendship and managing the significant emotional impacts of providing help.
The Adoption of Public Pre-Kindergarten among the American States: An Event History Analysis
Authors: Cohen-Vogel Lora , Sadler James , Little Michael H. , Merrill Becca , Curran F. Chris
Published: October 2020

Over the past few decades, we have witnessed a surge in publicly funded pre-K programs in the United States. Today, policy makers in 45 states and the District of Columbia have adopted them. Combining information from twelve datasets, we use event history analysis (EHA) to examine the influence of a set of predictors on states’ decisions to adopt public pre-K. Findings indicate that party dominance in the legislature, legislative professionalism, and unemployment rates are associated with pre-K adoption; regional proximity to previously adopting states is also significant. The authors discuss implications for policy makers and advocates considering future legislative action in the early childhood education sector, including the expansion of pre-K eligibility requirements.
Treatment Targets for Diabetic Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis: Any Evidence?
Authors: Huang Chiu-Ching
Published: October 2020

Diabetic patients are often affected by comorbid conditions that influence clinical outcome. Taking care of diabetic peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is a challenge for nephrologists, not only because these patients have more complications and comorbidities, but also because of their difficulties in maintaining glycemic control with the use of current glucose-containing dialysis solutions. In addition, the increased transport of small molecules and proteins by the peritoneal membrane in diabetic patients adds the further problems of ultrafiltration deficit and malnutrition. The present article reviews pertinent evidence toward establishing the best strategy for the care of diabetic PD patients. With better glycemic control, improved nutrition, improved fluid balance, and optimal preservation of residual renal function, there is hope for improving the survival of diabetic PD patients.
Could Solutions Low in Glucose Degradation Products Preserve Residual Renal Function in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients? A 1-Year Multicenter Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial (Balnet Study)
Authors: Kim Sung Gyun , Kim Sejoong , Hwang Young-Hwan , Kim Kiwon , Oh Ji Eun , Chung Wookyung , Oh Kook-Hwan , Kim Hyung Jik ,   Curie Ahn for the Korean Balnet Study Group
Published: October 2020

⋄ Objectives

In vitro studies of peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions demonstrated that a lactate-buffered fluid with neutral pH and low glucose degradation products (LF) has better biocompatibility than a conventional acidic lactate-buffered fluid (CF). However, few clinical trials have evaluated the long-term benefit of the biocompatible solution on residual renal function (RRF). To compare LF with CF, we performed a prospective, randomized study with patients starting PD.

⋄ Patients and Methods

After 1-month run-in period, 91 new PD patients were randomized for 12 months of treatment with either LF (Balance: Fresenius Medical Care, Bad Homburg, Germany; n = 48) or CF (Stay•Safe: Fresenius; n = 43). We measured RRF, acid–base balance, peritoneal equilibration test, and adequacy of dialysis every 6 months after the run-in period.

⋄ Results

After 12 months of treatment, the residual glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in patients using LF tended to be higher than that of patients on CF ( p = 0.057 by repeated-measures analysis of variance). We observed a significant difference in the changes of residual GFR between the two groups ( p = 0.009), a difference that was especially marked in the subgroup whose baseline residual GFR was more than 2 mL/min/1.73 m2. In addition, serum total CO2 levels were higher ( p = 0.001) and serum anion gap was lower ( p = 0.019) in the LF group. We observed no differences between groups for Kt/V, C-reactive protein, or normalized protein equivalent of nitrogen appearance.

⋄ Conclusions

In incident PD patients with significant residual GFR, LF may better preserve RRF over a 12-month treatment period. Additionally, pH-neutral PD fluid may improve acid–base balance as compared with CF.
Complex Qualitative Data Analysis: Lessons Learned From the Experiences With the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven
Authors: Dierckx de Casterlé Bernadette , De Vliegher Kristel , Gastmans Chris , Mertens Evelyne
Published: October 2020

In this article, the authors discuss critical factors to be considered when analyzing complex qualitative data. The experiences with the use of the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven (QUAGOL) to analyze qualitative data were used as starting point to develop a deeper understanding of what a good qualitative analysis requires and how to deal with its challenges in less optimal research contexts. A critical analysis and discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the guide in a broader methodological context supports its potential for use in developing strong qualitative evidence. The analysis highlighted three key strategies of undertaking the analysis of complex narrative data: the case-oriented approach, the method of constant comparison, and the use of data-generated codes. Having a good understanding of the underlying principles and how to implement them are key to conducting methodologically sound analyses.
Barriers to High Quality End of Life Care in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Diaz Milian Ricardo
Published: October 2020

End of life discussions frequently take place in surgical intensive care units, as a significant number of patients die while admitted to the hospital, and surgery is common during the last month of life. Multiple barriers exist to the initiation of these conversations, including: miscommunication between clinicians and surrogates, a paternalistic approach to surgical patients, and perhaps, conflicts of interest as an unwanted consequence of surgical quality reporting. Goal discordant care refers to the care that is provided to a patient that is incapacitated and that is not concordant to his/her wishes. This is a largely unrecognized medical error with devastating consequences, including inappropriate prolongation of life and non-beneficial therapy utilization. Importantly, hospice and palliative care needs to be recognized as quality care in order to deter the incentives that might persuade clinicians from offering these services.
Culturally Imprinted Anxiety and the Itinerary of Clinical Trial Projects for Its Management
Authors: Malik Tariq H.
Published: October 2020

Anxiety has become ubiquitous in modern life, across countries. Cultural theories suggest that high uncertainty avoidance (UA) increases anxiety, while long-term orientation (LTO) decreases it. We question whether a high UA culture in a region attracts research and development (R&D) projects regarding anxiety management, compared to LTO. Furthermore, do these opposite dimensions moderate each other in attracting a pharmaceutical firm’s response? This article explores this link between the UA culture and the moderation effect of LTO. Using data on clinical trials related to anxiety management projects in 67 countries, we record 10,585 observations, capturing 4% of the global population of clinical trials on the subject. We find that the uncertainty avoidance index (UAI) shows a negative correlation with the intensity of the anxiety management project, while LTO has no significant correlation. The interaction between the two shows positive correlation. The results are found to be significant after controlling for confounding variables and robustness checks. This study makes three contributions. First, it highlights the link between culture and anxiety management projects through the clinical trial movement. Second, it contributes to cultural theory, suggesting that the UAI defines problems and LTO defines innovative solutions. It also highlights the differences and links between the UAI and LTO at the conceptual level. Thirdly, it offers general policy and practical implications.
Non-Gaussian additive and multiplicative noise-induced chaos in the lateral vibration of a viscoelastic plate: A fully analytic approach
Authors: Asnafi Ali Reza
Published: October 2020

In this study, the chaotic behavior of a viscoelastic plate under integrated non-Gaussian additive and multiplicative bounded noise is investigated with an analytical approach. First, the governing equation of motion of the system was derived by introducing a set of dimensionless parameters. After that, the modified version of Melinkov’s function in terms of statistical indices was obtained, and then, for a spectrum of bounded noises, the boarder curves of chaotic areas were obtained. The model of sine/cosine Wiener was chosen for the bounded noise which enables the researcher to produce a range of wide and narrowband noises. For the case that the excitation is only additive, or only multiplicative, and that both excitations exist simultaneously, the effect of variations in structural properties and noise characteristics on the chaos area were investigated. It was shown that at frequencies close to the natural frequency of the corresponding linear system, narrowband excitations affected the chaotic behavior more than the wideband ones and vice versa. To validate the results, a numerical simulation was also made.
Catching a Break: Accessibility, Empathy, and COVID-19
Authors: Irwin Clair E.
Published: October 2020

By driving U.S. residents to shelter-in-place, COVID-19 forces many to experience restrictions similar to those experienced by people with disabilities. This autoethnographic essay uses my experiences as a White disabled woman to discuss the communal disabling experience of COVID-19. I use rationing insulin and my sorrow over the lives lost from insulin rationing and COVID-19 to critique the U.S. focus on consumerism and its obfuscation of Black Americans. This essay ends by calling us to use the pandemic’s disabling experience in empathizing and standing in solidarity with Black Americans, and fighting for racial justice.
The sagacity of the surround: The casual sex-assemblages of young adults
Authors: Sanders George , Lyons Heidi Ann
Published: October 2020

The current study applies the concept of the assemblage, an aggregation of discursive and nondiscursive bodies, objects, and ideas, to young adults and casual sex. By de-centering human subjectivity, we are able to focus on some of the ways in which dating apps and sexual desires, in addition to human and nonhuman bodies, can be propelled and/or impeded in anticipation of sexual encounters. To answer our research questions, we rely on online survey data from young adults living in the United States ( N = 99). Making use of the theoretical contributions of Deleuze and Guattari, our findings highlight the ways dating apps and social media contribute to organizing, arranging and rearranging the casual sex assemblage.
Mode-I interlaminar fracture behavior of laminated bamboo composites
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Sheng Baolu , Huang Dongsheng , Zhou Aiping
Published: October 2020

Mode-I interlaminar fracture behavior of laminated bamboo composites was characterized by mechanical testing in a bonded double cantilever beam configuration. No obvious fiber bridging was observed during the test. At the front of crack tip, nonlinear response was relatively small and negligible. The failure mode of laminated bamboo composites was mainly governed by brittle fracture. Mode-I interlaminar fracture toughness ([Formula: see text]) calculated using the modified beam theory was 501.08 J/m2. Besides, numerical simulation combined with cohesive elements was used to simulate the mode-I interlaminar fracture behavior. A direct method for the determination of cohesive parameters without recourse to iterative fitting was presented in detail. The applicability and effectiveness of this method for interpretation of the fracture behavior of laminated bamboo composites were verified by comparing numerical predictions with experimental results.
Comparison of Midterm Outcomes Between Open and Robotic Emergent Ventral Hernia Repair
Authors: Kudsi Omar Y. , Gokcal Fahri , Bou-Ayash Naseem , Chang Karen
Published: October 2020

Background. There are no studies on the role of robotics in emergency ventral hernia repair (EVHR). We aimed to compare outcomes of robotic EVHR (REVHR) and open (OEVHR). Methods. We performed a retrospective study of EVHRs performed between 2013 and 2019. Patients who underwent ventral hernia repair in an elective setting and patients who had concomitant non-abdominal wall procedures were excluded. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative variables were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results. In all, 43 patients underwent OEVHR as compared to 35 patients who underwent REVHR. The patients in both groups were similar in terms of hernia etiology as well as Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE-II) and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores. Mean operative times for the robotic group were almost 2-fold compared with those of the open group (139 minutes vs 70 minutes, respectively; P < .001). Median length of stay (LOS) did not differ between the groups (3 days for both groups; P = .488). Major complications ( P = .001), morbidity scores ( P = .006), surgical site events (SSEs) ( P = .045), and procedural interventions ( P = .020) were found higher in the open group. No differences in freedom of recurrence were found ( P = .662). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that open repair was associated with a 4-fold risk for the development of complications as compared to robotic repair ( P = .025; odds ratio (OR) = 4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.193-13.444). Conclusion. Compared to OEVHR, REVHR resulted in longer operative times and lower morbidity, including SSEs and related interventions. However, neither LOS nor recurrence differed between the groups.
LQR optimized BP neural network PI controller for speed control of brushless DC motor
Authors: Wang Tingting , Wang Hongzhi , Hu Huangshui , Wang Chuhang
Published: October 2020

This paper proposes a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) optimized back propagation neural network (BPNN) PI controller called LN-PI for the speed control of brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. The controller adopts BPNN to adjust the gain [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of PI, which improves the dynamic characteristics and robustness of the controller. Moreover, LQR is adopted to optimize the output of BPNN so as to make it close to the target PI gains. Finally, the optimized control output is inputted into the BLDC motor system to achieve speed control. The performance analysis of the proposed controller is presented to compare with traditional PI controller, neural network PI controller and LQR optimized PI controller under MATLAB/Simulink, the results shows that the proposed controller effectively improves the response speed, reduces the steady-state error and enhances the anti-interference ability.
Practical considerations in the use of regorafenib in metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Loupakis Fotios , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Bachet Jean-Baptiste , Kuan Feng-Che , Macarulla Teresa , Pietrantonio Filippo , Xu Rui-Hua , Taniguchi Hiroya , Winder Thomas , Yuki Satoshi , Zeng Shan , Bekaii-Saab Tanios
Published: October 2020

Over the past 20 years, management of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has improved considerably, leading to increased overall survival and more patients eligible for third- or later-line therapy. Currently, two oral therapies are recommended in the third-line treatment of mCRC, regorafenib and trifluridine/tipiracil. Selecting the most appropriate treatment in the third-line setting poses different challenges compared with treatment selection at earlier stages. Therefore, it is important for physicians to understand and differentiate between available treatment options and to communicate the benefits and challenges of these to patients. In this narrative review, practical information on regorafenib is provided to aid physicians in their decision-making and patient communications in daily practice. We discuss the importance of appropriate patient selection and adverse events management through close patient monitoring and dose adjustments to ensure patients stay on treatment for longer and receive as much benefit as possible. We also highlight key physician–patient communication points to facilitate shared decision-making.