bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Cryoballoon Versus Radiofrequency Ablation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation on Healthcare Utilization and Costs: An Economic Analysis From the FIRE AND ICE Trial
Authors: Chun K. R. Julian , Brugada Josep , Elvan Arif , Gellér Laszlo , Busch Matthias , Barrera Alberto , Schilling Richard J. , Reynolds Matthew R. , Hokanson Robert B. , Holbrook Reece , Brown Benedict , Schlüter Michael , Kuck Karl‐Heinz ,   for the FIRE AND ICE Investigators
Published: July 2017

Background

This study sought to assess payer costs following cryoballoon or radiofrequency current (
RFC
) catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the randomized
FIRE AND ICE
trial.

Methods and Results

A trial period analysis of healthcare costs evaluated the impact of ablation modality (cryoballoon versus
RFC
) on differences in resource use and associated payer costs. Analyses were based on repeat interventions, rehospitalizations, and cardioversions during the trial, with unit costs based on 3 national healthcare systems (Germany [€], the United Kingdom [£], and the United States [

$

]). Total payer costs were calculated by applying standard unit costs to hospital stays, using
International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision
diagnoses and procedure codes that were mapped to country‐specific diagnosis‐related groups. Patients (N=750) randomized 1:1 to cryoballoon (n=374) or
RFC
(n=376) ablation were followed for a mean of 1.5 years. Resource use was lower in the cryoballoon than the
RFC
group (205 hospitalizations and/or interventions in 122 patients versus 268 events in 154 patients). The cost differences per patient in mean total payer costs during follow‐up were €640, £364, and

$

925 in favor of cryoballoon ablation (
P
=0.012, 0.013, and 0.016, respectively). This resulted in trial period total cost savings of €245 000, £140 000, and

$

355 000.

Conclusions

When compared with
RFC
ablation, cryoballoon ablation was associated with a reduction in resource use and payer costs. In all 3 national healthcare systems analyzed, this reduction resulted in substantial trial period cost savings, primarily attributable to fewer repeat ablations and a reduction in cardiovascular rehospitalizations with cryoballoon ablation.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Identifier: NCT01490814.
Just Say No: Explaining the Lack of International Mediation in Kashmir
Authors: Biswas Bidisha
Published: July 2017

The dispute between India and Pakistan over Kashmir is one of the world’s most protracted and potentially dangerous conflicts. While the international community has strong interest in limiting violent conflagration between the two states, third party action aimed at amelioration has been very limited. This contrasts with overall global mediation efforts, which have increased in the post-Cold War period. Using archival research, this study explores the reasons for the Government of India’s implacable opposition to any external intervention in the conflict. We argue that both strategic and ideational motivations have influenced its decisions. In particular, India’s strict adherence to the principle of strategic autonomy precludes the possibility of accepting external mediation. By exploring how and why strategic and ideational motivations intersect to become a formidable barrier to third party intervention, this article contributes to our understanding of why certain countries develop resistance to mediation.
A Monograph of the Brazilian endemic genus Lavoisiera (Melastomataceae: Microlicieae)
Authors: MARTINS ANGELA B. , ALMEDA FRANK
Published: July 2017

A systematic monograph is presented for Lavoisiera, a Brazilian endemic genus of 41 species that is centered in the campo rupestre ecoregion in the Brazilian Planalto south of the Amazon basin, mostly west of the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Rainforest), and east of the Pantanal. The stronghold for species diversity is the state of Minas Gerais with 36 species, 30 of which are endemic there. This study represents the first comprehensive monograph of the genus based on field work across its distributional range, complemented by examination of over 3620 specimens from 35 herbaria. An evaluation of taxonomic characters used in the long-standing sectional classification of the genus has led to its abandonment because it is based on artificial characters and does not provide a sound working hypothesis of infrageneric relationships. Eight new species are described: L. arachnoidea, L. belinelloi, L. canastrensis, L. daviesiana, L. minima, L. rundeliana, L. setosa, and L. vestita; lectotypifications are provided for L. caryophyllea, L. chamaepitys, L. glandulifera, L. pulchella, and L. senae; and 44 epithets are relegated to synonymy. An identification key, full synonymy, descriptions, habitat and phenological information, distribution maps, diagnostic illustrations, images of representative species in the field, and geospatial conservation assessments are provided for all species based on IUCN criteria. SEM images of seed morphology are presented for nearly half of the species along with camera lucida drawings of meiotic chromosome figures for selected species, and an index to numbered collections examined.
Two new species of Margarites (Gastropoda: Margaritidae) from hydrothermal vent areas, Western Pacific
Authors: ZHANG SHUQIAN , ZHANG SUPING
Published: July 2017

During research dives by the submersible ROV Faxian, two margaritid species were collected in Okinawa Trough and Manus Back-Arc Basin. In present study, we describe and illustrate them as Margarites similis sp. nov. and Margarites manusensis sp. nov., respectively. The generic allocation is based on shell morphology and radula features. Phylogenetic reconstruction using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene also supports their placements within Margarites.
A new species of the genus Ancylocheles Haig, 1978 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura: Porcellanidae) from Gujarat, northwestern India
Authors: TRIVEDI JIGNESHKUMAR N. , OSAWA MASAYUKI , VACHHRAJANI KAURESH D.
Published: July 2017

A new species of porcellanid crab, Ancylocheles peterngi n. sp., is described on the basis of material collected during crustacean faunal surveys along the coasts of the Gujarat State, northwestern India. The new species resembles the sole congeneric species, A. gravelei (Sankolli, 1963), but is distinguished by the morphology of the carapace, third thoracic sternite and antenna.
Two new species of clearwing moths (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from Taiwan
Authors: LIANG JIA-YUAN , HSU YU-FENG
Published: July 2017

Two new species of Sesiidae (clearwing moth) are described from Taiwan: Ceratocorema woodstocki Liang & Hsu sp. nov., and Melittia tao Liang & Hsu sp. nov. Diagnostic characters for the two species are presented using wing morphology, wing pattern, presence of androconial patches on the hindwing, and genitalia. The adults and their genitalia are documented, and distribution data are provided. New records of relationships between host plants and the immatures are also provided.
A Third-Law Isentropic Analysis of a Simulated Hurricane
Authors: Marquet Pascal
Published: July 2017

The moist-air entropy can be used to analyze and better understand the general circulation of the atmosphere or convective motions. Isentropic analyses are commonly based on studies of different equivalent potential temperatures, all of which are assumed to fully represent the entropy of moist air. It is, however, possible to rely either on statistical physics or the third law of thermodynamics when defining and computing the absolute entropy of moist air and to study the corresponding third-law potential temperature, which is different from the previous ones. The third law assumes that the entropy for the most stable crystalline state of all substances is zero when approaching absolute zero temperature.

This paper shows that the way all these moist-air potential temperatures are defined has a large impact on (i) the plotting of the isentropes for a simulation of Hurricane Dumile, (ii) the changes in moist-air entropy computed for a steam cycle defined for this hurricane, (iii) the analyses of isentropic streamfunctions computed for this hurricane, and (iv) the computations of the heat input, the work function, and the efficiency defined for this steam cycle.

The moist-air entropy is a state function and the isentropic analyses must be completely determined by the local moist-air conditions. The large differences observed between the different formulations of moist-air entropy are interpreted as proof that the isentropic analyses of moist-air atmospheric motions must be achieved by using the third-law potential temperature defined from general thermodynamics.
The Response of the Southern Hemisphere Middle Atmosphere to the Madden–Julian Oscillation during Austral Winter Using the Specified-Dynamics Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model
Authors: Yang Chengyun , Li Tao , Smith Anne K. , Dou Xiankang
Published: July 2017

Using the specified-dynamics (SD) Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (SD-WACCM), the effects of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) on the midwinter stratosphere and mesosphere in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) are investigated. The most significant responses of the SH polar cap temperature to the MJO are found about 30 days after MJO phase 1 (P1) and about 10 days after MJO phase 5 (P5) in both the ERA-Interim data and the SD-WACCM simulation. The 200- and 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies in the SH reveal that wave trains emanate from the Indian and Pacific Oceans when the MJO convection is enhanced in the eastern Indian Ocean and the western Pacific. As a result, the upward propagation and dissipation of planetary waves (PWs) in the middle and high latitudes of the SH stratosphere is significantly enhanced, the Brewer–Dobson (BD) circulation in the SH stratosphere strengthens, and temperatures in the SH polar stratosphere increase. Wavenumber 1 in the stratosphere is the dominant component of the PW perturbation induced by the MJO convection. In the SH mesosphere, the MJO leads to enhancement of the dissipation and breaking of gravity waves (GWs) propagating as a result of wind-filtering change in the SH extratropics and causes anomalous downwelling in the middle and high latitudes of the mesosphere. The circulation thus changes significantly, resulting in anomalous cooling in the mesosphere in response to MJO P1 and P5 at lags of 10 and 30 days, respectively.
Winter Atmospheric Circulation Anomaly Associated with Recent Arctic Winter Warm Anomalies
Authors: Wu Bingyi
Published: July 2017

The winter Arctic atmosphere in the middle and lower troposphere has shifted to a warmer stage since the winter of 2004/05 relative to the mean averaged from 1979/80 to 2003/04. Recent Arctic warm anomalies are concurrent with warm anomalies over the North Pacific, northern Africa, and the low latitudes of both the North American and Asian continents and with cold anomalies over the middle and high latitudes of Eurasia and North America. Meanwhile, strengthened winter SLP is observed in the middle and high latitudes of Eurasia, the Siberian marginal seas of the Arctic Ocean, and the North Pacific. Correspondingly, winter 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies exhibit wave train structures over Eurasia, the North Pacific, and North America. These major features frequently reappear since the winter of 2004/05. A regionally averaged winter SLP in 40°–65°N, 30°E–150°W can be regarded as the intensity index to characterize interannual variability of the atmospheric circulation anomaly associated with recent Arctic warm anomalies. This atmospheric circulation anomaly differs from the Arctic dipole anomaly and displays a closer association with atmospheric variability over the middle and low latitudes relative to the Arctic. It directly connects Arctic warm anomalies in the middle and lower troposphere to increased frequencies of extreme cold events in the middle and low latitudes of Eurasia and western North Pacific, and western North America. This study also implies that SST cooling in the tropical central and eastern Pacific may also contribute to recent Arctic warm anomalies, although its impact mechanism is not clear yet.
Assessment of the SMAP Level-4 Surface and Root-Zone Soil Moisture Product Using In Situ Measurements
Authors: Reichle Rolf H. , De Lannoy Gabrielle J. M. , Liu Qing , Ardizzone Joseph V. , Colliander Andreas , Conaty Austin , Crow Wade , Jackson Thomas J. , Jones Lucas A. , Kimball John S. , Koster Randal D. , Mahanama Sarith P. , Smith Edmond B. , Berg Aaron , Bircher Simone , Bosch David , Caldwell Todd G. , Cosh Michael , González-Zamora Ángel , Holifield Collins Chandra D. , Jensen Karsten H. , Livingston Stan , Lopez-Baeza Ernesto , Martínez-Fernández José , McNairn Heather , Moghaddam Mahta , Pacheco Anna , Pellarin Thierry , Prueger John , Rowlandson Tracy , Seyfried Mark , Starks Patrick , Su Zhongbo , Thibeault Marc , van der Velde Rogier , Walker Jeffrey , Wu Xiaoling , Zeng Yijian
Published: July 2017

The Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission Level-4 Surface and Root-Zone Soil Moisture (L4_SM) data product is generated by assimilating SMAP L-band brightness temperature observations into the NASA Catchment land surface model. The L4_SM product is available from 31 March 2015 to present (within 3 days from real time) and provides 3-hourly, global, 9-km resolution estimates of surface (0–5 cm) and root-zone (0–100 cm) soil moisture and land surface conditions. This study presents an overview of the L4_SM algorithm, validation approach, and product assessment versus in situ measurements. Core validation sites provide spatially averaged surface (root zone) soil moisture measurements for 43 (17) “reference pixels” at 9- and 36-km gridcell scales located in 17 (7) distinct watersheds. Sparse networks provide point-scale measurements of surface (root zone) soil moisture at 406 (311) locations. Core validation site results indicate that the L4_SM product meets its soil moisture accuracy requirement, specified as an unbiased RMSE (ubRMSE, or standard deviation of the error) of 0.04 m3 m−3 or better. The ubRMSE for L4_SM surface (root zone) soil moisture is 0.038 m3 m−3 (0.030 m3 m−3) at the 9-km scale and 0.035 m3 m−3 (0.026 m3 m−3) at the 36-km scale. The L4_SM estimates improve (significantly at the 5% level for surface soil moisture) over model-only estimates, which do not benefit from the assimilation of SMAP brightness temperature observations and have a 9-km surface (root zone) ubRMSE of 0.042 m3 m−3 (0.032 m3 m−3). Time series correlations exhibit similar relative performance. The sparse network results corroborate these findings over a greater variety of climate and land cover conditions.
Clinical Presentation, Predictors, and Outcomes Among Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist (MRA)-Eligible Acute Heart Failure Patients in the Heart Function Assessment Registry Trial in Saudi Arabia (HEARTS)
Authors: AlShamiri Mostafa Q. , AlHabib Khalid F. , AlHabeeb Waleed , Raslan Ismail R. , Ullah Anhar , Elasfar Abdelfatah A. , Alshaer Fayez , Albackr Hanan , Mimish Layth , Almasood Ali , AlGhamdi Saleh , Ghabashi Abdullah
Published: July 2017

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) therapy is indicated after myocardial infarction in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) with an ejection fraction ≤40% and lacking contraindications. We analyzed clinical presentations, predictors, and outcomes of MRA-eligible patients within a prospective registry of patients with AHF from 18 hospitals in Saudi Arabia, from 2009 to 2010. For this subgroup, mortality rates were followed until 2013, and the clinical characteristics, management, predictors, and outcomes were compared between MRA-treated and non-MRA-treated patients. Of 2609 patients with AHF, 387 (14.8%) were MRA eligible, of which 146 (37.7%) were prescribed MRAs. Compared with non-MRA-treated patients, those prescribed MRAs more commonly exhibited non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, acute on chronic heart failure, past history of ischemic heart disease, and severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction; were more commonly administered oral furosemide and digoxin; and had higher in-hospital recurrent congestive HF rates. Mortality did not significantly differ ( P > .05) between groups. In Saudi Arabia, 37.7% of eligible patients received MRA treatment, which is higher than that in developed countries. The lack of long-term survival benefit raises concerns about systematic problems, for example, proper follow-up and management after hospital discharge, warranting further investigation.
A view through a window: Social relations, material objects and locality
Authors: Hirsch Shirin , Smith Andrew
Published: July 2017

In this article the authors ask what it would mean to think sociologically about the window as a specific material and symbolic object. Drawing on qualitative analysis of a series of comparative interviews with residents in three different streets in a diverse local area of Glasgow, they explore what the use and experience of windows tells us about their respondents’ very different relationships to the places where they live. On the one hand, the window, as a material feature of the home, helps us grasp the lived reality of class inequality and how such inequality shapes people’s day-to-day experience. On the other hand, windows are symbolically charged objects, existing at the border of the domestic and public world. For this reason, they feature in important ways in local debates over the appearance, ownership and conservation of the built environment. The article explores these struggles, and shows what they reveal about the construction of belonging in the neighbourhood, a process which is both classed and racialised at one and the same time.
Functional design of traditional hollow fibers: opening up a second life of being a medical drug delivery carrier
Authors: Cheung Tin Wai , Luo Xue , Li Li
Published: July 2017

Fiber technology has stepped into an essential position in the textile industry. It is forecasted that smart textiles will keep on developing constantly and vigorously. Having a convenient drug delivery system for treating various illnesses and bacterial infections is always in demand. Hollow fibers, which consist of a hollow structure and exceptional characteristics, such as high loading capacity and high surface reactivity, have been considerably used in medical equipment. A pilot study was performed in this paper for opening up environmentally friendly, convenient and repeatable drug delivery functions of industrial, ready-made hollow fibers for sustainable development in various aspects. The hollow fiber drug delivery system of this project is believed to tackle the challenges observed from the traditional drug delivery system, which include the following: (1) replacement of one-time delivery by repeatable drug loading and releasing; (2) loading complex drugs, such as in Chinese medicine; (3) using common materials available in the current textile market. Nylon 6 hollow fiber was the main subject of the pilot study. Its drug loading capability was investigated with the application of woven fabrics via the process of simple and direct drug loading under negative pressure (i.e. vacuum). The antibacterial performance of the drug-loaded fabrics and the drug release kinetics of the hollow fibers were examined.
A two-phase sentiment analysis approach for judgement prediction
Authors: Liu Yi-Hung , Chen Yen-Liang
Published: July 2017

Factual scenario analysis of a judgement is critical to judges during sentencing. With the increasing number of legal cases, professionals typically endure heavy workloads on a daily basis. Although a few previous studies have applied information technology to legal cases, according to our research, no prior studies have predicted a pending judgement using legal documents. In this article, we introduce an innovative solution to predict relevant rulings. The proposed approach employs text mining methods to extract features from precedents and applies a text classifier to automatically classify judgements according to sentiment analysis. This approach can assist legal experts or litigants in predicting possible judgements. Experimental results from a judgement data set reveal that our approach is a satisfactory method for judgement classification.
Numerical model updating applied to the simulation of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer cables under bending and tensile stress
Authors: Menezes Eduardo A W , Silva Laís V , Marczak Rogério J , Amico Sandro C
Published: July 2017

Wire ropes are widely used in applications where the axial stress is high and flexural and torsional stresses are relatively low. Study of their mechanical behavior encompasses many factors, bringing considerable complexity to the construction of numerical or analytical models that suitably represent their behavior, including contact stresses between rods, helical geometry, rotation of wires when extended and also, in the case of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer (composite) cables, their anisotropic behavior. In view of the lack of suitable analytical solutions, this work focuses on the updating of a finite element model by incorporating factors commonly neglected by simplified analytical approaches. The carbon fiber–reinforced polymer cable was modeled under tensile stress and under four-point bending. After that a sensitivity analysis of the main parameters governing the problem was conducted. The updating process minimized the deviation between numerical and experimental data, and the model was able to reproduce the tensile and bending behavior with deviations smaller than 1%. The adopted methodology can be extended to similar cases.
Initiation of spreading depression by synaptic and network hyperactivity: Insights into trigger mechanisms of migraine aura
Authors: Vinogradova Lyudmila V
Published: July 2017

Background

Cortical spreading depression (SD) is thought to underlie migraine aura but mechanisms of triggering SD in the structurally normal, well-nourished cortex of migraine patients remain unknown. Synaptic and network dysfunctions appear to underlie episodic neurological disorders, including migraine. The narrative review summarizes old and recent experimental evidence for triggering SD by synaptic/network mechanisms and discusses the relevance of the data to migraine pathogenesis. Our hypothesis is that under some conditions synaptic/network hyperactivity may reliably ignite SD, and this mechanism may underlie triggering migraine aura in patients.

Findings

High-frequency tetanic stimulation of the cortex reliably triggers SD in synaptically connected regions; SD is a reliable cortical response to acute hyperexcitability (epileptic seizures), though chronic epilepsy prevents triggering SD; in the hyperexcitable cortex, SD may be triggered by sensory stimulation; compromised glutamatergic transmission plays the critical role in triggering SD.

Conclusion

SD may be triggered by dynamic network instability produced by dysfunction of calcium-dependent glutamate release. Synaptic drive from subcortical sensory processing structures (brainstem and/or thalamocortical networks) is able to evoke depolarization of hyperexcitable cortical neurons sufficient to initiate the regenerative SD process. Studying SD initiation by synaptic/network hyperexcitability may provide insights into basic mechanisms underlying SD generation in migraine brain.
Disclosing Gender-Based Violence During Health Care Visits: A Patient-Centered Approach
Authors: Williams Jessica R. , Gonzalez-Guarda Rosa M. , Halstead Valerie , Martinez Jacob , Joseph Laly
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to better understand victims’ perspectives regarding decisions to disclose gender-based violence, namely, intimate partner violence (IPV) and human trafficking, to health care providers and what outcomes matter to them when discussing these issues with their provider. Twenty-five participants from racially/ethnically diverse backgrounds were recruited from a family justice center located in the southeastern United States. Two fifths had experienced human trafficking, and the remaining had experienced IPV. Upon obtaining informed consent, semistructured, in-depth interviews were conducted. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was used to examine interview data. Five primary themes emerged. Three themes focused on factors that may facilitate or impede disclosure: patient–provider connectedness, children, and social support. The fourth theme was related to ambiguity in the role of the health care system in addressing gender-based violence. The final theme focused on outcomes participants hope to achieve when discussing their experiences with health care providers. Similar themes emerged from both IPV and human trafficking victims; however, victims of human trafficking were more fearful of judgment and had a stronger desire to keep experiences private. Cultural factors also played an important role in decisions around disclosure and may interact with the general disparities racial/ethnic minority groups face within the health care system. Recognizing factors that influence patient engagement with the health care system as it relates to gender-based violence is critical. The health care system can respond to gender-based violence and its associated comorbidities in numerous ways and interventions must be driven by the patient’s goals and desired outcomes of disclosure. These interventions may be better served by taking patient-centered factors into account and viewing the effectiveness of intervention programs through a behavioral, patient-centered lens.
Mixing challenges for SiO2/polystyrene nanocomposites
Authors: Kourki Hajir , Famili Mohammad Hossein Navid , Mortezaei Mehrzad , Malekipirbazari Milad
Published: July 2017

Morphology of a nanocomposite, which has indisputable effects on its properties, is determined by its dynamic and thermodynamic conditions. While physical properties of the components of a nanocomposite as well as the interaction between them are the parameters controlling the morphology thermodynamically, their dynamic condition is related to the issues like intensity of mixing and geometry of mixer. In this research, we investigate the mixing process of solution casting method by studying the effects of mixing intensity on the dynamics of the particle structure and hereby its morphology using sedimentation test. In these experiments, mixing is performed at various durations, input energies, and energy types for suspensions containing different particle sizes and concentrations as well as diverse polymer concentrations. We found that increasing mixing time and input energy along with using ultrasonic wave decrease the size of aggregates. Sedimentation test revealed improvements of dispersion and distribution states of suspension by using ultrasonic waves and high shear mixing, respectively. Finally, particle–particle interaction data show increase in the probability of restructuring after mixing with reduction in particle size and increase in particle volume fraction.
A qualitative study on the implementation of quality systems in Australian hospitals
Authors: Leggat Sandra G. , Balding Cathy
Published: July 2017

Public hospitals are required to have quality systems in place to meet accreditation standards, achieve government performance expectations and continually improve care. However, previous study suggests that there has been limited success in the implementation of effective quality systems. Using document review, self-evaluation and qualitative data from interviews and focus groups of 270 board members, managers and staff we explored the implementation of quality systems in eight Australian public hospitals. Using normalisation process theory, we found that the hospitals took a technical, top-down approach to quality system implementation and did not provide staff with opportunities for socialization of the technology that enabled them to normalise the quality work. ‘Quality’ was consistently described as an ‘extra’ set of tasks to do, rather than a means to creating sustained, safe, quality care. Despite enormous goodwill and positive intent, a lack of understanding of how to effect change in the complexity of hospitals has led the boards and senior managers in our sample to execute a technical, top-down approach based on compliance and reactive risk.
Forward and reverse mapping of multiresponses turning process using adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system and simulated annealing algorithm
Authors: Teimouri Reza , Amini Saeid
Published: July 2017

Input–output relationships of a turning process have been established both in forward as well as reverse directions using adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system. Four input parameters, namely insert type, lubrication strategy, feed rate, and cutting velocity and two outputs, namely cutting force and surface roughness have been considered for the aforementioned mappings. Training and testing of the network in the forward direction were adopted by use of experimental data, which derived from high-speed turning of Monel K500 super alloy. For multiattributes reverse mapping problem, grey relational grade was firstly used to convert the cutting force and surface roughness in a single attribute problem. Then the reverse mapping was performed by the use of simulated annealing algorithm by minimizing the absolute difference between grey relational grade of specified cutting force and surface roughness and adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system model of grey relational grade, which was derived from the forward mapping. The confirmation was performed in eight benchmark tests. Results indicated that the proposed methodology can predict the input–output relationship of high-speed turning process in both forward and backward directions with error goal below 8%. The developed model was further used to find the parametric influence of the process factors on the cutting force and surface roughness.
Stiffness characteristics of inner–outer ring flexure pivots applied to the ultra-precision instruments
Authors: Liu Lang , Bi Shusheng , Yang Qizi
Published: July 2017

The inner-outer ring flexure pivot (IORFP), composed of three straight springs that cross each other in space, is studied in this work. First, to emphasize the study value of IORFP, qualitative comparison is applied to IORFP and some of most commonly used flexure pivots. Then an analytical model for the rotational stiffness of IORFP is developed based on the strain energy formulation of a beam flexure, and model applicability is provided as well. Analysis of stiffness, buckling load, and the nonlinear of moment–rotation relation is then carried out. Subsequently, the analytical model is verified by finite element analysis. After that, seven prototypes of IORFP are manufactured, and their rotational stiffnesses are tested. The results show that the analytical model can be used for analysis and designing of compliant mechanisms that contain IORFP. Finally, the study quantitatively compares stiffness characteristics and axis drift of IORFP and the generalized cross-spring pivot, indicating that the former significantly outperforms the latter. IORFP possesses excellent performances and can be widely used to supplant generalized cross-spring pivot in compliant mechanisms and ultra-precision instruments.
The Limits of Procedural Discretion
Authors: Gill Nick , Rotter Rebecca , Burridge Andrew , Allsopp Jennifer
Published: July 2017

Studies of procedural in-court judicial discretion have highlighted a dilemma between the imperative to reduce it owing to its potential misuse and preserve it owing to its importance in protecting vulnerable groups. This article offers a new framework with which to enter this debate and new quantitative empirical evidence that favours the former position over the latter. Drawing upon 240 in-person observations of Britain’s First Tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), the article demonstrates that judicial discretionary behaviour that is either vulnerability-neutral, vulnerability-amplifying or correlated with extraneous factors outweighs vulnerability-redressing behaviour, despite the sensitivity of this particular jurisdiction and the guidelines that consequently exist for judges. These findings lend support to calls to limit judicial procedural discretion. The article concludes by offering some cost-effective suggestions about how to do so.
Relationship between perceived organizational justice and moral distress in intensive care unit nurses
Authors: Haghighinezhad Ghazaleh , Atashzadeh-Shoorideh Foroozan , Ashktorab Tahereh , Mohtashami Jamileh , Barkhordari-Sharifabad Maasoumeh
Published: July 2017

Background:

The nature of the nursing profession pays more attention to ethics of healthcare than its therapeutic dimension. One of the prevalent moral issues in this profession is moral distress. Moral distress appears more in intensive care units due to the widespread need for moral decision-making regarding treatment and care in emergency situations. In this connection, organizational justice is of high importance and, as a significant motivational tool, leaves important impacts upon attitude and behavior of personnel.

Aim/objective:

This study aimed at investigation of the relationship between perceived organizational justice and moral distress in intensive care unit nurses.

Research design:

This is a descriptive-correlational research which examined the relationship between perceived organizational justice and moral distress in intensive care unit nurses.

Participants and research context:

A total of 284 intensive care unit nurses were selected via census sampling. The data were collected through questionnaires and then were analyzed via SPSS-20 using Pearson and Spearman correlation tests.

Ethical considerations:

This study was approved by the Committee of Ethics in Medical Research. Completion of informed consent form, guarantee of the confidentiality of information, explanation on purposes of the research, and voluntary participation in the study were moral considerations observed in this study.

Findings:

There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the total perceived organizational justice and the total moral distress (p = 0.024, r = −0.137) and also between “procedural and interactional justice and errors” and “not respecting the ethics principles.” Meanwhile, no relationship was found by the findings between distributive justice and dimensions of moral distress.

Conclusion:

According to the results of the study, there was a reverse significant relationship between moral distress and perceived organizational justice; therefore, the head nurses are expected to contribute to reduce moral distress and to increase perceived organizational justice in nurses.
Outcomes of a Culturally Tailored Partially Randomized Patient Preference Controlled Trial to Increase Physical Activity Among Low-Income Immigrant Latinas
Authors: D’Alonzo Karen T. , Smith Barbara A. , Dicker Lee H.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Almost half (47.8%) of adult Latinas report they never engage in any leisure time physical activity (PA) which is an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses. There is a pressing need to develop and test PA interventions among Latinas. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a PA Intervention for Latinas, a culturally tailored, promotora-facilitated 12-week PA intervention. It was hypothesized that at the completion of the intervention, participants would have (a) higher daily PA levels; (b) improved aerobic fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility; and (c) lower body mass index and percentage of body fat. Methodology: A partially randomized patient preference trial design with lag group was used to test the intervention. Participants ( N = 76) attended twice weekly, low-impact aerobic/Latin dance PA classes taught by laywomen trained as promotoras. Results: Significant improvements were measured in aerobic fitness, muscle strength and flexibility, and daily PA levels ( p < .001). Sixty percent of the participants attended at least 60% of the PA sessions. Discussion: Findings suggest laywomen trained as promotoras can successfully facilitate the delivery of an intervention to increase PA among immigrant Latinas.
Life Is Precious: Views of Adolescents and Their Mothers on Methods to Reduce Suicidal Behavior in Latinas
Authors: Humensky Jennifer L. , Gil Rosa M. , Mazzula Silvia , Diaz Samantha , Lewis-Fernández Roberto
Published: July 2017

Life is Precious (LIP) was developed to help reduce suicidal behavior in Latina adolescents. As part of an external evaluation of the LIP program, we conducted focus groups with adolescent participants and mothers to learn whether participants and families believe that the activities of LIP address risks for suicidal behavior. Four focus groups were conducted: three with Latina adolescent LIP participants ( n = 31) and one with mothers ( n = 8). Transcripts were analyzed using ATLAS.ti. A grounded theory approach was used to identify themes and subthemes. The following themes emerged: (1) challenges contributing to suicidal behavior and self-harm among Latina adolescents, (2) how respondents believe that LIP is helping to reduce suicidal behavior, and 3) ongoing challenges. Participants say that the LIP program helps adolescents feel better and improve social relationships, academic performance, and relationships with their family. School nurses may wish to identify community-based programs offering similar services.
Variational formulation of generalized interfaces for finite deformation elasticity
Authors: Javili Ali
Published: July 2017

The objective of this contribution is to formulate generalized interfaces in a variationally consistent manner within a finite deformation continuum mechanics setting. The general interface model is a zero-thickness model that represents the finite thickness “interphase” between different constituents in a heterogeneous material. The interphase may be the transition zone between inclusion and matrix in composites or the grain boundaries in polycrystalline solids. The term “general” indicates that the interface model here accounts for both jumps of the deformation as well as the traction across the interface. Both the cohesive zone model and elastic interface model can be understood as two limits of the current interface model. Furthermore, some aspects of material modeling of generalized interfaces are elaborated and a consistent model is proposed. Finally, the proposed theory is elucidated via a series of numerical examples.
Case Report: Diagnosis of a Rare Plaque-Like Dermal Fibroma Successfully Treated With Mohs Surgery
Authors: Gill Pavandeep , Arlette John , Shiau Carolyn J. , Abi Daoud Marie S.
Published: July 2017

Background:

CD34-positive plaque-like dermal fibroma (PDF) is a poorly characterised benign dermal neoplasm that has a wide differential diagnosis. It can be mistaken for other entities on superficial biopsy and be overtreated, leading to unnecessary worry and extensive surgery.

Objective:

To report on an uncommon presentation of this entity, the histopathologic differential diagnosis of PDF, and a novel treatment method.

Methods:

Clinical and histopathological information was obtained for a PDF lesion on a 75-year-old man.

Results:

On superficial biopsy, the PDF lesion was misinterpreted as a possible neurothekeoma. Successful Mohs surgery and genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis of PDF, and the patient received appropriate tissue-sparing surgical management.

Conclusion:

This case adds to our current knowledge about PDF and highlights the importance of early recognition of these lesions to direct appropriate diagnostic testing (full-thickness biopsy) and management. This case confirms successful management with Mohs surgery.
The Xenopus tadpole: An in vivo model to screen drugs favoring remyelination
Authors: Mannioui Abdelkrim , Vauzanges Quentin , Fini Jean Baptiste , Henriet Esther , Sekizar Somya , Azoyan Loris , Thomas Jean Léon , Pasquier David Du , Giovannangeli Carine , Demeneix Barbara , Lubetzki Catherine , Zalc Bernard
Published: July 2017

Background:

In multiple sclerosis, development of screening tools for remyelination-promoting molecules is timely.

Objective:

A Xenopus transgenic line allowing conditional ablation of myelinating oligodendrocytes has been adapted for in vivo screening of remyelination-favoring molecules.

Methods:

In this transgenic, the green fluorescent protein reporter is fused to E. coli nitroreductase and expressed specifically in myelinating oligodendrocytes. Nitroreductase converts the innocuous pro-drug metronidazole to a cytotoxin. Spontaneous remyelination occurs after metronidazole-induced demyelinating responses. As tadpoles are transparent, these events can be monitored in vivo and quantified. At the end of metronidazole-induced demyelination, tadpoles were screened in water containing the compounds tested. After 72 h, remyelination was assayed by counting numbers of oligodendrocytes per optic nerve.

Results:

Among a battery of molecules tested, siponimod, a dual agonist of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 and 5, was among the most efficient favoring remyelination. Crispr/cas9 gene editing showed that the promyelinating effect of siponimod involves the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 5.

Conclusion:

This Xenopus transgenic line constitutes a simple in vivo screening platform for myelin repair therapeutics. We validated several known promyelinating compounds and demonstrated that the strong remyelinating efficacy of siponimod implicates the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 5.
The case of the top Spanish YouTubers: Emerging media subjects and discourse practices in the new media ecology
Authors: Scolari Carlos A , Fraticelli Damián
Published: July 2017

The objective of this article is to propose a first exploratory analysis of the Spanish YouTubers’ main productions and practices. Following the description of the emergence of YouTube in the context of media ecology, the article presents a general overview of the top 10 Spanish YouTubers’ production based on quantitative data. The study continues with a semiotic/discursive analysis of their audio-visual production’s main distinctive traits. As traditional television is imitating nowadays these new media expressions, this article also addresses the aesthetics and grammar of Yutubers, a TV program produced by Comedy Central that simulates the Spanish YouTubers channels’ aesthetics and language. The analysis concludes with a discussion on the study’s findings and a series of questions about these new media subjects.
HEMS dispatch: A systematic review
Authors: Eaton Georgette , Brown Simon , Raitt James
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Helicopter emergency medical services dispatch is a contentious issue in modern prehospital services. Whilst the link between helicopter emergency medical services and improved patient outcome is well evidenced, allocation to the most appropriate incidents remains problematic. It is unclear which model of deployment is the most efficient at targeting major trauma and whether this can be improved with a change in dispatch process. The objective of this study was to have an overview of the evidence for dispatch models of helicopter emergency medical services to critically ill or injured patients.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in accordance with a protocol developed from the PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and the Cochrane library were searched focusing on keywords involving dispatch of helicopter emergency medical services resources.

Results

Ninety-seven articles were screened and 14 articles were eligible for inclusion. Most were of low quality, with three of moderate quality. Heterogeneity in the methodology of included articles precluded meta-analysis, so a narrative review was performed.

Conclusions

This review demonstrates the lack of evidence surrounding helicopter emergency medical services dispatch models. Whilst it is not possible to identify a method of dispatch that will optimize helicopter emergency medical services allocation, common themes within the literature indicate that helicopter emergency medical services use is region specific and dispatch criteria should be designed to match specific systems. Additionally, mechanism of injury as well as physiological data from scene was shown to be the most accurate indicator for helicopter emergency medical services attendance.
Comparisons of particle size distribution from conventional and advanced compression ignition combustion strategies
Authors: Zhang Yizhou , Ghandhi Jaal , Rothamer David
Published: July 2017

Particulate size distribution measurements are of importance in engine research as stricter regulations on particulate matter emissions (both mass and number based) are being implemented. Particulate size distribution measurements can be very sensitive to the laboratory environment or experimental setup, making it difficult to compare results for different combustion strategies acquired in different labs. In this study, a comparison of particulate size distribution measurements over a wide variety of conventional and advanced combustion strategies was conducted using a four-stroke single-cylinder diesel engine test setup to eliminate lab-to-lab variations and enable direct comparison of particulate size distribution results for different combustion strategies. Eight combustion strategies are included in the comparison: conventional diesel combustion, diesel/gasoline reactivity controlled compression ignition, homogeneous charge compression ignition, two types of gasoline compression ignition (early injection and late injection), diesel low temperature combustion, natural gas combustion with diesel pilot injection, and diesel/natural gas reactivity controlled compression ignition. Measurements were performed at four different load-speed points with matched combustion phasing when possible; for several strategies, it was necessary to operate with slightly different combustion phasing. Particle size distributions were measured using a scanning mobility particle sizer. To study the influence of volatile particles, measurements were performed with and without a volatile particle remover (thermodenuder) at low and high dilution ratios. The results show that non-uniformity in the fuel distribution caused by direct injection results in increased accumulation-mode particle concentrations compared to premixed strategies even for low particulate mass advanced combustion strategies. Premixed combustion strategies (homogeneous charge compression ignition) and early injection gasoline compression ignition show higher nuclei-mode particle concentrations. Overall particle number and mass concentrations vary significantly between engine operating conditions and between combustion strategies.
Generalised cyclidic nets for shape modelling in architecture
Authors: Mesnil Romain , Douthe Cyril , Baverel Olivier , Léger Bruno
Published: July 2017

The aim of this article is to introduce a bottom-up methodology for the modelling of free-form shapes in architecture that meet fabrication constraints. To this day, two frameworks are commonly used for surface modelling in architecture: non-uniform rational basis spline modelling and mesh-based approaches. The authors propose an alternative framework called generalised cyclidic nets that automatically yield optimal geometrical properties for the envelope and the structural layout, like the covering with planar quadrilaterals or hexagons. This framework uses a base circular mesh and Dupin cyclides, which are natural objects of the geometry of circles in space, also known as Möbius geometry. This article illustrates how complex curved shapes can be generated from generalised cyclidic nets. It addresses the extension of cyclidic nets to arbitrary topologies with the implementation of a ‘hole-filling’ strategy and also demonstrates that this framework gives a simple method to generate corrugated shells.