bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International Development NGOs and Bureaucratic Capacity: Facilitator or Destroyer?
Authors: Campbell Susanna , DiGiuseppe Matthew , Murdie Amanda
Published: May 2018

Do development international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) facilitate or destroy the bureaucratic capacity of the states in which they operate? The literature is split on this question. Some scholars argue that development INGOs weaken state capacity by delivering social services that the government is supposed to provide. Others argue that by increasing a country’s domestic demand for improved human rights, development INGOs improve a government’s capacity to fulfill them. In this paper, we show that the effect of development INGOs on state capacity depends on whether a state is democratic or nondemocratic. In our cross-sectional time-series analysis, we find that development INGO presence has a significant positive relationship with state capacity in democracies but no relationship with state capacity in nondemocratic states. These findings help explain the inconsistent claims in the existing INGO literature and are also relevant for development INGOs and the policymakers that support them.
Morphologic and Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Anorectal Melanoma
Authors: Charifa Ahmad , Zhang Xuchen
Published: May 2018

Anorectal melanoma is a rare aggressive disease. Due to its rarity and considerable histologic and immunohistochemical variabilities, misdiagnosis as lymphoma, carcinoma, sarcoma, and/or gastrointestinal stromal tumor is not uncommon, particularly in amelanotic cases. We reviewed histologic features and immunohistochemical stains of 19 anorectal melanoma cases. Histopathologic features were evaluated including junctional activity, melanin pigment, and morphologic features. Immunohistochemical stains were performed using Sox10, S100 protein, HMB-45, melan-A, CD56, and cytokeratins. Epithelioid histopathologic morphology was observed in 63.2% of the cases followed by 47.4% of the cases with spindle-cell, 26.3% with lymphoma-like, and 26.3% with pleomorphic morphologies. Junctional melanocytic activity was seen in almost half of the cases. Melanin pigment was absent (amelanotic) in nearly 40% of the cases. Immunohistochemically, diffuse positive expression of Sox10, S100 protein, melan-A, and HMB-45 was seen in 100%, 40%, 53.3%, and 38.5% of the cases, respectively. Cytokeratins were negative and CD56 was positive in 2 cases. These findings indicate that anorectal melanomas often show one or combined histolopathologic features without presence of melanin pigment and absence of junctional melanocytic activity. Anorectal melanoma should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of malignant neoplasms of anorectal region with epithelioid, spindle-cell, lymphoma-like, and pleomorphic morphologies. Sox10 immunohistochemistry stain can be used as a first-line screening tool to avoid extensive or unnecessary workups and/or potential misdiagnosis.
Safety Assessment of Magnesium Sulfate as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Johnson Wilbur , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan , Heldreth Bart
Published: May 2018

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) reviewed the safety of magnesium sulfate, which functions as a bulking agent in cosmetic products and is reportedly used at concentrations up to 11% and 25% in leave-on and rinse-off products, respectively. The Panel noted that the history of safe medical use of magnesium sulfate provides further confidence that there are no significant toxicity concerns relating to systemic exposure to this ingredient after cosmetic product application. Furthermore, the extensive clinical experience of the Panel, including the results of numerous patch tests, indicates that magnesium salts do not have the potential to induce sensitization. The Panel also noted that results were negative for 50% magnesium sulfate in a mouse skin irritation study and in an in vitro sensitization assay. The Panel concluded that magnesium sulfate is safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in the safety assessment.
Improving the sensitivity of miniature linear ion trap mass spectrometer by a DC voltage applied on the eject electrodes
Authors: Li Gang , Li Detian , Cheng Yongjun , Sun Wenjun , Pei Xiaoqiang , Han Xiaodong , Zhang Huzhong , Wang Yongjun , Sun Jian , Dong Meng
Published: May 2018

A miniaturized linear ion trap mass spectrometer with continuous atmospheric pressure interface has been built in our lab. Significant extension in mass range and reduction in power consumption have been realized by the supplemental alternating current frequency scan mode. However, relatively poor sensitivity has been witnessed, which is directly dominated by the detection efficiency of the ion detector. Theoretical analysis has been implemented to find ways to improve the detection efficiency. The results show that enhanced sensitivity can be obtained by applying a direct current voltage on the pair of electrodes in eject direction. Experiments show that the sensitivity has been improved by more than one time due to the application of direct current voltage. With this design, this homemade miniature linear ion trap mass spectrometer can be used to analyze more rarefied samples, especially to on-site chemical analysis and space application.
Free movement of people and capital and the standard of transnational academic mobility: Principles of governance in the European Research Area
Authors: Leemann Regula Julia
Published: May 2018

The project of establishing a European community since World War II has been further advanced by adding - besides the four freedoms of free movement of goods, persons, services and capital - a fifth freedom – the free circulation of researchers, knowledge and technology – that intends to promote community building at the level of higher education and research and by creating of a European Research Area (ERA). Based on a study of academic careers of postdocs in Switzerland and secondary data, the paper aims to analyse the key governing principles implied in the standard of transnational academic mobility of ‘human capital’ as well as the experiences of individual researchers in coordinating their interests and lives in this context. We refer to the theoretical framework of the economics of conventions and regimes of engagements by Boltanski and Thévenot. We show that the policies, values and norms of the ERA and the standard of geographic mobility are, at their core, based on four conventions – industry, market, project and fame. This arrangement forces researchers to establish themselves as academic self-entrepreneurs in the knowledge market. In consequence, the mobility requirement of the ERA governance regime makes it difficult for individuals to engage in an individual plan, in familiarity and in exploration.
Young children’s picture-books as a forum for the socialization of emotion
Authors: Garner Pamela W , Parker Tameka S
Published: May 2018

Guided by Vygotsky’s zone of proximal development, this article examined whether characters in emotion picture-books express and talk about emotions in ways that are consistent with theory and research on children’s emotions. In general, we found that picture-books recommended by experts in social-emotional development contain content that is fairly consistent with published research in early childhood. We also found parents’ reading of the picture-books was consistent with the content analysis, even though we recorded their spontaneous emotion-based language in addition to the text presented in the picture-books. The findings also suggested that reading of emotion picture-books may increase preservice teachers’ references to emotions, which could translate into greater use of emotion language in the early childhood classroom. Results are discussed with regard to the role of picture-books as an important source of emotion-related information for children, parents, and teachers.
An analysis of Australian STEM education strategies
Authors: Murphy Steve , MacDonald Amy , Danaia Lena , Wang Cen
Published: May 2018

In December 2015 the Australian state and territory governments endorsed the ‘National STEM School Education Strategy 2016–2026’. Since then, the individual jurisdictions have released their own STEM education strategies that aim to improve student STEM capabilities and aspirations. This paper analyses the various Australian STEM education strategies in relation to six themes informed by research into effective STEM education: STEM capabilities; STEM dispositions; STEM educational practices; Equity; Trajectories; and Educator capacities. The analysis shows that Australia’s STEM education strategies focus on actions aimed at building student STEM capabilities, particularly through inquiry and problem-based learning, and enhancing educator capacity. The strategies recognise student STEM learning trajectories and pay particular attention to the importance of early childhood STEM education, as well as the ways in which students’ potential career pathways might be influenced. However, less emphasis is placed on supporting key transitions in STEM education, developing student STEM dispositions, and addressing equity issues in STEM.
Altered sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase 2a content: Targets for heart failure therapy
Authors: Liu Gang , Li Si Qi , Hu Ping Ping , Tong Xiao Yong
Published: May 2018

Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase is responsible for transporting cytosolic calcium into the sarcoplasmic reticulum and endoplasmic reticulum to maintain calcium homeostasis. Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase is the dominant isoform expressed in cardiac tissue, which is regulated by endogenous protein inhibitors, post-translational modifications, hormones as well as microRNAs. Dysfunction of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase is associated with heart failure, which makes sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase a promising target for heart failure therapy. This review summarizes current approaches to ameliorate sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase function and focuses on phospholamban, an endogenous inhibitor of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium adenosine triphosphatase, pharmacological tools and gene therapies.
Adapting to a Shifting Health Care Landscape: Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program Lead Agencies’ Perspectives
Authors: Molina Yamile , San Miguel Cindy , Sanz Stephanie , San Miguel Liliana , Rankin Kristin , Handler Arden
Published: May 2018

Understanding how safety net programs adapt to systemic health care changes is pivotal for creating feasible recommendations for policy implementation. This study characterizes perspectives of Lead Agency (LA) coordinators of the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) in response to sociopolitical changes at state and national levels. Our cross-sectional study included 29 semistructured telephone interviews between December 2015 and January 2016. Respondents indicated some changes in the priority population served, changes in referrals and clinical services, and, a continued commitment to IBCCP. Our findings suggest that IBCCP and other safety net programs will need to be flexible to meet the ongoing needs of historically vulnerable populations in a complex, shifting environment. Implications for public health practice and policy include the need to ensure that program personnel are aware of evidence-based strategies to reach different priority populations and are kept abreast of organizational and system changes that may affect referral patterns as well as the need to educate health care providers working with safety net programs about changes in the delivery and coordination of services.
Organizational Social Capital: Ties Between HRD, Employee Voice, and CEOs
Authors: Cumberland Denise M. , Alagaraja Meera , Shuck Brad , Kerrick Sharon A.
Published: May 2018

Growing employee voice increases the likelihood that employees will engage in discretionary efforts to share potentially useful information, express opinions, or concerns about work-related issues to their supervisors and other leaders in the organization. We develop a conceptual model and a series of propositions to examine and analyze the underlying mechanisms that enhance employee voice. Specifically, we identify linkages and connections between human resource development (HRD) practices, organizational social capital (OSC), and the role of CEOs as facilitating environmental or situational mechanisms that have implications on voice behavior. HRD can play a key role in helping employees foster social capital, leading to employee voice in the organization. When CEOs extend their existing internal social networks, and engage in conversations with workers, this dialogue serves as a visible artifact and reverberates across the organization. Our propositions move beyond framing employee-related voice outcomes as a result of either HRD practices or CEO influence. Rather, we postulate an outcome of their interdependent interactions. Implications for HRD research and practice are discussed.
The effects of dihydroartemisinin on inflammatory bowel disease-related bone loss in a rat model
Authors: Ge Xingtao , Chen Zhijian , Xu Zhenjie , Lv Fang , Zhang Kewei , Yang Yu
Published: May 2018

Bone loss is one of the important extra-intestinal manifestations in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Compounds derived from natural products have been used to treat IBDs. However, the role of natural products on IBD-induced bone loss is not completely clarified. In the present study, we observed the effects of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), an antimalaria drug, on IBD and IBD-induced bone loss in a rat model. Chronic IBD model was established in Sprague-Dawley rats by giving them 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate in drinking water. DHA was given by intraperitoneal injection. Blood, colon, and bone samples were collected for biomarker assay and histological analysis. There was an obvious increase in tumor necrotic factor (TNF) α and receptor activator of nuclear factor (NF)-kB ligand (RANKL), and decrease in procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP) level in IBD groups compared with the normal control (p < 0.05). The disease activity score of IBD rats was significantly higher than the control (p < 0.01). Obvious decrease in disease activity score, TNFα, and RANKL level and increase in P1NP were observed in DHA-treated IBD rats. Bone loss, shown as the decrease in bone mineral density, bone volume fraction, and trabecular number and increase in trabecular separation were observed in IBD rats compared with control (p < 0.01). DHA treatment obviously abolished the bone loss, in particular in the high-dose group (p < 0.05). DHA treatment also inhibited the excessive osteoclast formation; RANKL protein expression; and RANK, TRAF6, Fra-1, NFATc1 mRNA expression induced by IBD. Our data indicated that DHA may be a potential therapeutic agent for IBD and IBD-induced bone loss.

Impact statement

Bone loss is one of the important extra-intestinal manifestations in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Studies have shown that compounds derived from natural products are useful in the treatment of IBDs. However, few studies have investigated the role of compounds derived from natural products in treatment of osteoporosis in IBDs. The current study aimed to show the effects of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), antimalaria drug, on bone loss in a rat model of IBD. The findings showed that DHA intervention dose dependently protected against bone loss in IBD rats by inhibiting tumor necrotic factor α production and osteoclast formation. These findings highlights that DHA may be beneficial for bone health in those patients with IBD.
Normobaric hyperoxia inhibits the progression of lung cancer by inducing apoptosis
Authors: Kim Sei Won , Kim In Kyoung , Ha Jick Hwan , Yeo Chang Dong , Kang Hyeon Hui , Kim Jin Woo , Lee Sang Haak
Published: May 2018

Hypoxia is a critical characteristic of solid tumors with respect to cancer cell survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Hyperoxic treatment has been attempted to reverse hypoxia by enhancing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the plasma. In this study, we evaluated the effects of normobaric hyperoxia on the progression of lung cancer to determine whether oxygen toxicity can be used in cancer therapy. Following a tail vein injection of the Lewis lung carcinoma cells, C57BL/6J mice were exposed to a 24-h normobaric hyperoxia/normoxia cycle for two weeks. In addition, A549 lung cancer cells were incubated in a normobaric hyperoxia chamber for a 24-h period. As a result, the size and number of tumors in the lung decreased significantly with exposure to normobaric hyperoxia in the mouse model. Cell viability, colony-forming ability, migration, and invasion all decreased significantly in A549 cells exposed to normobaric hyperoxia and the normal control group exposed to normobaric hyperoxia showed no significant damage. Oxidative stress was more prominent with exposure to normobaric hyperoxia in cancer cells. A549 cells exposed to normobaric hyperoxia showed a significantly higher cell apoptosis ratio compared with A549 cells without normobaric hyperoxia exposure and normal human lung cells (BEAS-2B cells). The Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA expression ratio also increased significantly. Changes in the key regulators of apoptosis were similar between in vivo and in vitro conditions. The p-ERK level decreased, while the p-JNK level increased, after normobaric hyperoxia exposure in A549 cells. This study demonstrated the role of normobaric hyperoxia in inhibiting lung cancer. Normal tissue and cells showed no significant hyperoxic damage in our experimental setting. The anti-tumor effect of normobaric hyperoxia may due to the increased reactive oxygen species activity and apoptosis, which is related to the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway.

Impact statement

Normobaric hyperoxia (NBO) is a feasible therapy for cancer with a low complication rate. Although NBO may be beneficial in cancer treatment, very few studies have been conducted; thus, the evidence is thin. This is the first study to clearly demonstrate morphological changes in lung cancer with NBO exposure and to investigate the underlying mechanisms both in vivo and in vitro. This study will arouse interest in NBO treatment and promote further research.
Treatment of Cutaneous Warts With Multiple Puncture Technique
Authors: Mclaughlin Joseph S. , Fischer Thomas J. , Merrell Gregory A.
Published: May 2018

Background: Despite a multitude of treatment options, cutaneous warts on the hands can be a recalcitrant clinical problem. Methods: Based on Current Procedural Terminology ( CPT) billing codes, the office database was searched for a 10-year period of warts treated with a puncture technique after institutional review board approval. Office notes were examined, and patients were contacted to assess wart resolution or the need for further treatment as well as any complications. Results: Of 16 patients who were identified with the treatment and diagnosis, 13 were able to be contacted. Median time to resolution was 22 days with a range of 10 to 30 days. Median size was 10 mm, range of 6 to 20 mm. Patients ages ranged from 7 to 88 years. Symptom duration prior to treatment was a median of 16 months, range of 5 to 48 months. Follow-up median was 6 years, range of 2 to 156 months. Three patients were less than 1 year from treatment, all others had follow-up more than 4 years. Complete resolution was seen in 11 patients (85%). Four patients had resolution of other warts in the local area who were not treated with puncture. Three patients had resolution of untreated warts at distant sites. Other than local tenderness, there were no complications. Conclusions: Barbotage, the multiple puncture of cutaneous warts, may be a reasonable treatment with minimal morbidity.
Use of parametric speaker for older people with dementia in a residential care setting: A preliminary study of two cases
Authors: Nishiura Yuko , Hoshiyama Minoru , Konagaya Yoko
Published: May 2018

Objective/Background

Older people with dementia often show behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia such as agitation, aggression, and depression that affect their activities of daily living, and hence reduce the quality of life of their caregivers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a new technological intervention—a parametric speaker, creating a narrow personal acoustic environment, which may reduce the manifestation of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia symptoms.

Methods

A parametric speaker was placed on the ceiling of a large day room, and personally selected pieces of music were provided in a narrow space just under the speaker during the intervention. Two older residents with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia participated in the experiment.

Results

Playing pieces of favorite music via the parametric speaker decreased their behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia during the intervention. In addition, this intervention reduced the burden on caregivers. One of the advantages of using parametric speaker was being able to create a personal space in a common room.

Conclusion

We considered that the parametric speaker might be useful to reduce behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia and the burden on caregivers, providing individualized rehabilitation for the improved quality of life of residents.
Uneven distribution characteristics of contact force of large-sized non-asbestos brake pad
Authors: Qingrui Meng , Dagang Wang , Qing Tao
Published: May 2018

Large-sized non-asbestos brake pad is used in the brake system of mine hoister. During the braking process, uneven contact force distribution in the contact surface will occur, which accordingly leads to uneven wear and a shortened service life of the brake pad. To reveal contact force variation laws of large-sized brake pad during the braking process, using the software package ADINA, the braking process was simulated in this work. The results show that (1) the contact forces gradually present saddle-shaped distributions along the radial and tangent directions of the disk, and the temperature does not increase with the radius of the disk; (2) the contact forces increase with the nominal normal pressure, but not linearly, and nominal normal pressure should not be higher than 0.6 MPa when the initial speed is equal to 10 m/s; (3) both the contact forces and their increasing speed increase with the initial speed of the disk, but not linearly, and the initial speed should not be higher than 10 m/s when the nominal normal pressure is equal to 0.6 MPa. Correctness of the theoretical analysis was verified by brake experiments. Achievements of this work provide the theoretical basis for optimal design of the large-sized non-asbestos brake pad.
Compassion-focused therapy for trauma in people with intellectual disabilities: A conceptual review
Authors: Cowles Megan , Randle-Phillips Cathy , Medley Andrew
Published: May 2018

Trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder are more prevalent in people with intellectual disabilities (PWID) than in the general population, yet the evidence base for trauma interventions in this population is sparse. Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) may be particularly well-suited to PWID for a number of reasons, including its adaptability to different developmental levels. PWID are more likely to have issues with self-relating (e.g. shame and self-criticism) and attachment than the general population, two issues that are compounded by trauma and which CFT explicitly seeks to address. Furthermore, compassion-focused approaches emphasize cultivating a sense of safeness while empowering people to make behavioural changes; this is particularly pertinent to PWID who have been traumatized and may feel unsafe and disempowered. An overview of CFT and its application to trauma are given, as well as some case studies using CFT with PWID.
Functional effects of TrkA inhibition on system xC−-mediated glutamate release and cancer-induced bone pain
Authors: Miladinovic Tanya , Ungard Robert G , Linher-Melville Katja , Popovic Snezana , Singh Gurmit
Published: May 2018

Breast cancer cells release the signalling molecule glutamate via the system xC− antiporter, which is upregulated to exchange extracellular cystine for intracellular glutamate to protect against oxidative stress. Here, we demonstrate that this antiporter is functionally influenced by the actions of the neurotrophin nerve growth factor on its cognate receptor tyrosine kinase, TrkA, and that inhibiting this complex may reduce cancer-induced bone pain via its downstream actions on xCT, the functional subunit of system xC−. We have characterized the effects of the selective TrkA inhibitor AG879 on system xC− activity in murine 4T1 and human MDA-MB-231 mammary carcinoma cells, as well as its effects on nociception in our validated immunocompetent mouse model of cancer-induced bone pain, in which BALB/c mice are intrafemorally inoculated with 4T1 murine carcinoma cells. AG879 decreased functional system xC− activity, as measured by cystine uptake and glutamate release, and inhibited nociceptive and physiologically relevant responses in tumour-bearing animals. Cumulatively, these data suggest that the activation of TrkA by nerve growth factor may have functional implications on system xC−-mediated cancer pain. System xC−-mediated TrkA activation therefore presents a promising target for therapeutic intervention in cancer pain treatment.
Suggested modification of presentation of stroke trial results
Authors: Goyal Mayank , Ganesh Aravind , Brown Scott , Menon Bijoy K , Hill Michael D
Published: May 2018

The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days after stroke onset has become the preferred outcome measure in acute stroke trials, including recent trials of interventional therapies. Reporting the range of modified Rankin Scale scores as a paired horizontal stacked bar graph (colloquially known as “Grotta bars”) has become the conventional method of visualizing modified Rankin Scale results. Grotta bars readily illustrate the levels of the ordinal modified Rankin Scale in which benefit may have occurred. However, complementing the available graphical information by including additional features to convey statistical significance may be advantageous. We propose a modification of the horizontal stacked bar graph with illustrative examples. In this suggested modification, the line joining the segments of the bar graph (e.g. modified Rankin Scale 1–2 in treatment arm to modified Rankin Scale 1–2 in control arm) is given a color and thickness based on the p-value of the result at that level (in this example, the p-value of modified Rankin Scale 0–1 vs. 2–6)—a thick green line for p-values <0.01, thin green for p-values of 0.01 to <0.05, gray for 0.05 to <0.10, thin red for 0.10 to <0.90, and thick red for p-values ≥0.90 or outcome favoring the control group. Illustrative examples from four recent trials (ESCAPE, SWIFT-PRIME, IST-3, ASTER) are shown to demonstrate the range of significant and non-significant effects that can be captured using this proposed method. By formalizing a display of outcomes which includes statistical tests of all possible dichotomizations of the Rankin scale, this approach also encourages pre-specification of such hypotheses. Prespecifying tests of all six dichotomizations of the Rankin scale provides all possible statistical information in an a priori fashion. Since the result of our proposed approach is six distinct dichotomized tests in addition to a primary test, e.g. of the ordinal Rankin shift, it may be prudent to account for multiplicity in testing by using dichotomized p-values only after adjustment, such as by the Bonferroni or Hochberg-Holm methods. Whether p-values are nominal or adjusted may be left to the discretion of the presenter as long as the presence or absence is clearly stated in the statistical methods. Our proposed modification results in a visually intuitive summary of both the size of the effect—represented by the matched bars and their connecting segments—as well as its statistical relevance.
Modeling and analysis of software fault detectability and removability with time variant fault exposure ratio, fault removal efficiency, and change point
Authors: Chatterjee Subhashis , Shukla Ankur , Pham Hoang
Published: May 2018

Software reliability growth models have been proposed to assess and predict the reliability growth of software, remaining number of faults, and failure rate. In previous studies, software faults have been mainly categorized into two categories based on its severity in removal process: simple faults and hard faults. In reality, fault detectability is one of the crucial factors which can influence the reliability growth of software. The detectability of a software fault depends on how frequently the instructions containing faults are executed. However, fault removability of a software fault depends on fault removal efficiency of debugging team. The main motive of this article is to incorporate the fault detectability in software reliability assessment. Fault exposure ratio is an essential factor for software reliability modeling that controls the per-fault hazard rate. It is strongly dependent on fault detectability. In this article, the effect of fault detectability, fault removability, fault exposure ratio, and fault removal efficiency has been considered simultaneously in software reliability growth modeling. Moreover, a logistic fault exposure ratio has been introduced. The effect of change point is incorporated in the proposed software reliability growth model. Two illustrative examples with software testing data have been presented.
The effectiveness of using diversity to select multiple classifier systems with varying classification thresholds
Authors: Butler Harris K , Friend Mark A , Bauer Kenneth W , Bihl Trevor J
Published: May 2018

In classification applications, the goal of fusion techniques is to exploit complementary approaches and merge the information provided by these methods to provide a solution superior than any single method. Associated with choosing a methodology to fuse pattern recognition algorithms is the choice of algorithm or algorithms to fuse. Historically, classifier ensemble accuracy has been used to select which pattern recognition algorithms are included in a multiple classifier system. More recently, research has focused on creating and evaluating diversity metrics to more effectively select ensemble members. Using a wide range of classification data sets, methodologies, and fusion techniques, current diversity research is extended by expanding classifier domains before employing fusion methodologies. The expansion is made possible with a unique classification score algorithm developed for this purpose. Correlation and linear regression techniques reveal that the relationship between diversity metrics and accuracy is tenuous and optimal ensemble selection should be based on ensemble accuracy. The strengths and weaknesses of popular diversity metrics are examined in the context of the information they provide with respect to changing classification thresholds and accuracies.
#WeareUnited, cyber-nationalism during times of a national crisis: The case of a terrorist attack on a school in Pakistan
Authors: Kalim Salma , Janjua Fauzia
Published: May 2018

Seeing language as a social practice and national identities as a product of discourse, the study intends to analyze discursive practices employed on social media to create the discourses of sameness and difference in times of national crisis. Following the discourse historical approach, I have illustrated how argumentative strategies and topos have been strategically employed to draw boundaries between Us and Them. In this exploration of exclusionary rhetoric, I have also underlined the use of images, memes and hashtags in the meaning-making process. The study illustrates not only the ways in which the discourse of national identities are constructed, but also how the existing pillars of Pakistani national identities have been transformed and dismantled on social media following a national tragedy. By investigating the digital practices and discourses, this study seeks to understand the construction of Pakistani national identities from bottom-up discourses.
Does proximal porous coating in short-stem humeral arthroplasty reduce stress shielding?
Authors: Tan Martin T , Read John W , Bokor Desmond J
Published: May 2018

Context

Short-stem humeral designs in shoulder arthroplasty have been introduced recently. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to determine if newer proximal porous titanium coating in humeral short stems produced clinical and radiologic improvements.

Method

Short-stem humeral implants (Tornier Ascend, Wright Medical) were used in 46 anatomical total shoulder replacements from October 2012 to December 2015. Clinical and radiologic measures were analyzed at one- and two-year follow-up.

Results

Nineteen shoulders received earlier grit blasted stems (Ascend Monolithic), and 27 shoulders received the later stems with proximal titanium porous coating (Ascend Flex). At two-year follow-up, radiographic changes and stress shielding were similar. Medial cortical thinning were more frequently observed in Monolithic (18 of 19) compared to Flex stems (19 of 27) on the PA films, though this was not statistically significant ( P = 0.061). Clinical outcome scores improved regardless of the stem type used and independent of the radiologic adaptations on plain films. One participant with the Ascend Flex developed glenoid component failure and rotator cuff tear and was subsequently revised.

Discussion

Clinical and radiological outcomes are similar in both short-stem designs. Proximal titanium porous coating may reduce medial calcar cortical thinning but it does not prevent it.

Key message

When compared to similarly designed uncoated grit-blasted stems, proximally porous coated humeral short stems produced similar clinical and radiological results. The proximal titanium porous coating may reduce medial cortical thinning.
Blood transfusion rates following shoulder arthroplasty in a high volume UK centre and analysis of risk factors associated with transfusion
Authors: Dacombe PJ , Kendall JV , McCann PAS , Packham IN , Sarangi PP , Whitehouse MR , Crowther MA
Published: May 2018

Aims

To determine the blood transfusion rates following shoulder arthroplasty and to establish risk factors associated with increased risk of transfusion.

Materials and methods

All shoulder arthroplasty cases performed between January 2012 and March 2017 in a tertiary upper limb unit were identified. Patients who received perioperative tranexamic acid were excluded. Retrospective review of case notes was completed to identify transfusion rate and risk factors. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to analyse the association between risk factors and transfusion rate.

Results

Five hundred and thirty-seven shoulder arthroplasties performed in 474 patients were included. Peri- or post-operative transfusion was required in 21 cases (3.9%). Univariate analysis suggested significant association with age (p = 0.005), female sex (0.015), preoperative haemoglobin/haematocrit (p < 0.001), perioperative drop in haemoglobin (p < 0.001), ASA grade (p < 0.001) and transfusion rate. Only perioperative drop in haemoglobin (p < 0.001) and American Society of Anaesthesiologist score (ASA) grade (p = 0.039) retained significance on multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

The blood transfusion rate following shoulder arthroplasty was 3.9%. Greater perioperative drop in haemoglobin and higher ASA grade were associated with increased risk of transfusion on multivariate analysis.
Ballistic performance study on the finite steel target subjected to normal and oblique impact by copper explosively formed projectile
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Long Yuan , Ji Chong
Published: May 2018

Subjected to normal and oblique impact by copper explosively formed projectile which is a kind of easy-deformable and soft projectile, ballistic performance of a 40-mm thickness steel target has distinct characteristics compared with the dynamic deformation of target penetrated by a rigid projectile. The failure modes of steel targets change from perforation to embedment or ricochet as the angle of obliquity increases. Correspondingly, microstructure evolution of the crater wall and morphology feature of fracture surfaces are analyzed to reveal different failure mechanisms of steel targets. The results show that the finite steel target experiences the failure mode of plug before the obliquity reaches 15° and thereafter the copper explosively formed projectile will be embedded into the crater bottom causing a big bulge on the rear surface of the steel target at low obliquities. At high angles of obliquity, the main body of copper explosively formed projectile will be ricocheted along the front surface of steel target and the critical angle of projectile ricochet is found to lie in 50° to 60° in our study. The penetration efficiency and capability of explosively formed projectile decreases as the obliquity angle increases. The results will not only help to reveal penetration mechanisms of explosively formed projectile against metallic target but also help to improve the ballistic resistance of armors.
Physical activity mediates the association between personality and biomarkers of inflammation
Authors: Graham Eileen K , Bastarache Emily D , Milad Elizabeth , Turiano Nicholas A , Cotter Kelly A , Mroczek Daniel K
Published: May 2018

Objectives:

The current study investigated whether personality traits and facets were associated with interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen, and whether physical activity mediated the relationship between personality and biomarkers of inflammation.

Methods:

Personality was assessed in the Midlife Development in the United States study using the Multi-Dimensional Personality Questionnaire and Midlife Development Inventory personality scale. Data were included from 960 participants (mean age = 57.86 years, standard deviation = 11.46). Personality was assessed from 2004 to 2009. Serum levels of interleukin-6, fibrinogen, and C-reactive protein were assessed in 2005–2009 as part of the Midlife Development in the United States biomarkers subproject.

Results:

Lower neuroticism was associated with elevated interleukin-6, and achievement was associated with lower fibrinogen. Higher physical activity was associated with lower interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein. Mediation models suggested that physical activity mediated the associations between achievement and both interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein.

Discussion:

Physical activity is an important factor in the Health Behavior Model of personality and explains some of the associations between personality and inflammation. These findings contribute to the fields of aging and health by linking individual difference factors to markers of inflammation, and showing that these processes may function partially through specific behaviors, in this case physical activity.
First report of African tick-bite fever in a South American traveler
Authors: Angerami Rodrigo N , Krawczak Felipe S , Nieri-Bastos Fernanda A , Santos Fabiana , Medorima Claudio , Resende Mariângela Ribeiro , Labruna Marcelo B
Published: May 2018

We report a clinical case of African tick-bite fever in a Brazilian traveler right after his return from South Africa. Definitive diagnosis was supported by seroconversion between acute-phase and convalescent-phase serum samples, detection of rickettsial DNA in skin lesions, and in vitro culture of Rickettsia africae from the patient’s skin. Most of the previous reported cases of African tick-bite fever were confirmed solely by serological or/and molecular methods. Through this first confirmed case of African tick-bite fever in Brazil, it is quite possible that other cases are occurring unnoticed by the health authorities, requiring a greater vigilance in traveler’s medicine in South America.
Caste Politics in Bihar: In Historical Continuum
Authors: Ankit Rakesh
Published: May 2018

This article provides a long-term narrative of movements for social change in Bihar, precipitated by the steady rise to political power by the Backward Classes/Castes in the state, since 1989. Locating this moment in a longer momentum of struggle since the 1920s, it probes the antecedents of recent social change in Bihar politics. Contextualising this process within a long recessional, it traces a larger democratic cycle of empowerment going back to the early twentieth century. The article attempts the historicisation of Bihar politics by drawing upon a variety of sources—from official records to newspapers—and supplementing them with relevant secondary literature.
Outcomes in the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship Match, 2010-2017
Authors: Mulcahey Mary K. , Hayes Meghan K. , Smith Christopher M. , Kraeutler Matthew J. , Trojan Jeffrey D. , McCarty Eric C.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Sports medicine is one of the most competitive fellowships in orthopaedic surgery. Despite its popularity, fellowship applicants have limited understanding of the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship match process.

Purpose:

To define key outcomes in the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship match, including the overall match rate, number of programs filled, and number of applicants ranked by programs that filled between 2010 and 2017.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

This study utilized data regarding the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship match collected by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) from 2010 through 2017. Applicant data included number of applicants, number of matched and unmatched applicants, and percentage of applicants matching into their top choices. Fellowship program data included number of programs participating in the match and number of applicants ranked by filled and unfilled programs.

Results:

Between 2010 and 2017, the mean number of orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship applicants was 244.8. On average, 92.0% of applicants matched into a fellowship program. The mean number of programs participating in the fellowship match was 92.9, with a mean of 219.9 accredited positions and 5.4 nonaccredited positions. Over the time period studied, a mean of 75.8% of programs matched all available positions. Programs that matched fully ranked 9.0 applicants per position, on average, compared with a mean of 6.5 applicants ranked per position among programs that did not fully match ( P = .0016).

Conclusion:

From 2010 to 2017, the number of applicants, positions available, overall match rate, and number of programs participating in the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship match have remained consistent. The mean number of applicants per position ranked by fully matched fellowship programs was 9.0 compared with a mean of 6.5 applicants per position ranked by programs that did not fully match. These data may be helpful as we look to the future of orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship positions and the match process. In addition, this study reveals characteristics that divide sports medicine fellowship programs that fully match from those that do not. Applicants and/or fellowship program directors may utilize this information to modify their approach to the match process going forward.
Spatial Release From Masking in 2-Year-Olds With Normal Hearing and With Bilateral Cochlear Implants
Authors: Hess Christi L. , Misurelli Sara M. , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: May 2018

This study evaluated spatial release from masking (SRM) in 2- to 3-year-old children who are deaf and were implanted with bilateral cochlear implants (BiCIs), and in age-matched normal-hearing (NH) toddlers. Here, we examined whether early activation of bilateral hearing has the potential to promote SRM that is similar to age-matched NH children. Listeners were 13 NH toddlers and 13 toddlers with BiCIs, ages 27 to 36 months. Speech reception thresholds (SRTs) were measured for target speech in front (0°) and for competitors that were either Colocated in front (0°) or Separated toward the right (+90°). SRM was computed as the difference between SRTs in the front versus in the asymmetrical condition. Results show that SRTs were higher in the BiCI than NH group in all conditions. Both groups had higher SRTs in the Colocated and Separated conditions compared with Quiet, indicating masking. SRM was significant only in the NH group. In the BiCI group, the group effect of SRM was not significant, likely limited by the small sample size; however, all but two children had SRM values within the NH range. This work shows that to some extent, the ability to use spatial cues for source segregation develops by age 2 to 3 in NH children and is attainable in most of the children in the BiCI group. There is potential for the paradigm used here to be used in clinical settings to evaluate outcomes of bilateral hearing in very young children.
Patient Experience in Health Professions Curriculum Development
Authors: Molley Scott , Derochie Amy , Teicher Jessica , Bhatt Vibhuti , Nauth Shara , Cockburn Lynn , Langlois Sylvia
Published: May 2018

To enhance student learning, many health profession programs are embracing involvement of patients in their curricula, yet little is known about the impact of such an experience on patients.

Objective:

To understand the experiences of patients who contributed to the creation of a Verbatim Reader’s Theater used in health professions curriculum.

Methods:

A semi-structured interview was conducted with a focus group of 3 patients who participated in curriculum development. The interview was recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for themes using van Manen approach to hermeneutic phenomenology.

Results:

Five themes emerged: (1) contextualizing contribution, (2) addressing expectations, (3) changing health-care service delivery, (4) sharing common experiences, and (5) coordinating participation.

Conclusion:

Patients had a positive experience contributing to curriculum development and found meaning in sharing their lived experience to shape the values of future clinicians. Strategies to promote continued success in partnership between patients and health professional curriculum developers include clear communication about the project’s direction and early discussion of patient role and expectations.
Perspective on Living With a Skin Condition and its Psychological Impact: A Survey
Authors: Kanji A
Published: May 2018

Background:

Chronic skin conditions can have a profound impact on people’s lives, both physically and psychologically, and may predispose to mental health disorders. Providing sufferers with appropriate psychological support is important.

Objective:

In this study, we captured the views of people suffering from a chronic skin condition who were attending the “Skin Matters” conference, held on 20 May 2017, in London. Methods: Delegates were provided with a 5-point questionnaire to complete. Questions related to the impact of their chronic skin condition on their life, the nature of any psychological support they had found helpful and whether they felt they could benefit from greater support in managing their condition.

Results:

59% of the delegates completed the questionnaire. The survey results showed that skin conditions can have an impact of many areas of daily living as well as on mental well-being. The most popular source of psychological support was the Internet. The majority of survey participants felt they would benefit from increased psychological support in managing their condition.

Conclusions:

In the United Kingdom, there is a need to improve the availability of resources for people/patients with skin conditions in order to provide better support.