bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for amendment in type, duration and setting of prescribed outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) for adult patients with cellulitis: a retrospective cohort study and CART analysis
Authors: Quirke Michael , Curran Emma May , O’Kelly Patrick , Moran Ruth , Daly Eimear , Aylward Seamus , McElvaney Gerry , Wakai Abel
Published: September 2017

Purpose of the study

To measure the percentage rate and risk factors for amendment in the type, duration and setting of outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) for the treatment of cellulitis.

Study design

A retrospective cohort study of adult patients receiving OPAT for cellulitis was performed. Treatment amendment (TA) was defined as hospital admission or change in antibiotic therapy in order to achieve clinical response. Multivariable logistic regression (MVLR) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis were performed.

Results

There were 307 patients enrolled. TA occurred in 36 patients (11.7%). Significant risk factors for TA on MVLR were increased age, increased Numerical Pain Scale Score (NPSS) and immunocompromise. The median OPAT duration was 7 days. Increased age, heart rate and C reactive protein were associated with treatment prolongation. CART analysis selected age <64.5 years, female gender and NPSS <2.5 in the final model, generating a low-sensitivity (27.8%), high-specificity (97.1%) decision tree.

Conclusions

Increased age, NPSS and immunocompromise were associated with OPAT amendment. These identified risk factors can be used to support an evidence-based approach to patient selection for OPAT in cellulitis. The CART algorithm has good specificity but lacks sensitivity and is shown to be inferior in this study to logistic regression modelling.
Ruminant neurological disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Giles Lucy , Orr Jayne , Viora Lorenzo , Gutierrez‐Quintana Rodrigo , Logue David , Guevar Julien
Published: September 2017

Between January 2006 and June 2016, 96 ruminants with neurological signs were donated to the Scottish Centre for Production Animal Health and Food Safety (SCPAHFS), University of Glasgow, by veterinarians in the field representing 5.4 per cent of all submissions. Forty‐seven different neurological presenting signs were reported with 79 per cent of the donated patients presenting with abnormal gait. All cases presenting with abnormalities in more than 4 out of 10 neurological categories died or were euthanased on welfare grounds. Calves were significantly more likely to present with neurological disorders than adult cattle compared with the proportion of calves: cows in the Scottish cattle population and total case population donated to SCPAHFS. Lesions were most commonly localised to the spinal cord in sheep 47 per cent (16), the peripheral nervous system in cattle 45 per cent (28) and to the brain in the overall population 41 per cent (39). The most common aetiology of neurological pathologies observed was infectious or inflammatory 28 per cent (27). Definitive diagnoses could be reached in 84 per cent (81) of patients. When postmortem reports were available, they produced a diagnosis in 70 per cent (52) of cases and contradicted clinical diagnoses in 38 per cent (26) of cases. The most frequently diagnosed conditions in ruminants over the 10 years were spastic paresis, vertebral osteomyelitis and listeriosis.
A mixed-mode traffic assignment model with new time-flow impedance function
Authors: Lin Gui-Hua , Hu Yu , Zou Yuan-Yang
Published: September 2017

Recently, with the wide adoption of electric vehicles, transportation network has shown different characteristics and been further developed. In this paper, we present a new time-flow impedance function, which may be more realistic than the existing time-flow impedance functions. Based on this new impedance function, we present an optimization model for a mixed-mode traffic network in which battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and gasoline vehicles (GVs) are chosen. We suggest two approaches to handle the model: One is to use the interior point (IP) algorithm and the other is to employ the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm. Three numerical examples are presented to illustrate the efficiency of these approaches. In particular, our numerical results show that more travelers prefer to choosing BEVs when the distance limit of BEVs is long enough and the unit operating cost of GVs is higher than that of BEVs, and the SQP algorithm is faster than the IP algorithm.
A New Fuzzy Firefly Algorithm with Adaptive Parameters
Authors: Hassanzadeh Tahereh , Meybodi Mohammad Reza , Shahramirad Masoumeh
Published: September 2017

Firefly algorithm is a swarm based algorithm that can be used for solving optimization problems. This paper proposed an improved fuzzy adaptive firefly algorithm (FAFA). In the proposed FAFA, a fuzzy system is used to adapt Firefly Algorithm’s parameters in order to improve its ability in global and local searches. Also, we used different fireflies initializing intervals and different iteration numbers to show the algorithm capability to find global optima. Results focus on the two case study categories of function optimization (seven benchmark functions) and presented a novel optimal multilevel thresholding approach for histogram-based image segmentation by using proposed FAFA and Otsu method. Evidence indicates that the optimization results of proposed FAFA approach are so better than the standard FA.
Characterization of hot deformation behavior of Ti–3Al–5Mo–4.5V alloy with a martensitic starting microstructure
Authors: Xiang Chunjie , Liu Yong , Liu Bin , Cao Yuankui , Gan Ziyang
Published: September 2017

The hot deformation behavior of Ti–3Al–5Mo–4.5V alloy with an [Formula: see text] martensitic microstructure was studied in the temperature range of 700–1000[Formula: see text]C and strain rates range of 0.001–[Formula: see text] up to a height reduction of 50%. The results show that an ultrafine equiaxed microstructure with an average grain size of [Formula: see text] were successfully produced through thermomechanical processing of a martensitic starting microstructure. A processing map was successfully constructed and provides appropriate processing parameters for hot deformation which are located in the temperature range of 700–800[Formula: see text]C and the low strain rate range of 0.001–[Formula: see text]. The instability domain mainly occurs at the strain rate higher than [Formula: see text] for the whole deformation temperature, which should be avoided during practice. The flow softening mechanism of the alloy is determined to be continuous dynamic recrystallization and the unstable flow is caused by the macro-fracture and flow localization.
Effect of Injection Molding Melt Temperatures on PLGA Craniofacial Plate Properties during In Vitro Degradation
Authors: Melo Liliane Pimenta de , Salmoria Gean Vitor , Fancello Eduardo Alberto , Roesler Carlos Rodrigo de Mello
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this article is to present mechanical and physicochemical properties during in vitro degradation of PLGA material as craniofacial plates based on different values of injection molded temperatures. Injection molded plates were submitted to in vitro degradation in a thermostat bath at 37 ± 1°C by 16 weeks. The material was removed after 15, 30, 60, and 120 days; then bending stiffness, crystallinity, molecular weights, and viscoelasticity were studied. A significant decrease of molecular weight and mechanical properties over time and a difference in FT-IR after 60 days showed faster degradation of the material in the geometry studied. DSC analysis confirmed that the crystallization occurred, especially in higher melt temperature condition. DMA analysis suggests a greater contribution of the viscous component of higher temperature than lower temperature in thermomechanical behavior. The results suggest that physical-mechanical properties of PLGA plates among degradation differ per injection molding temperatures.
Discoloration Effects of High-Dose γ-Irradiation and Long-Term Thermal Aging of (U)HMW-PE
Authors: Kömmling Anja , Chatzigiannakis Emmanouil , Beckmann Jörg , Wachtendorf Volker , von der Ehe Kerstin , Braun Ulrike , Jaunich Matthias , Schade Ulrich , Wolff Dietmar
Published: September 2017

Two polyethylene types with ultra-high (UHMW-PE) and high molecular weight (HMW-PE) used as neutron radiation shielding materials in casks for radioactive waste were irradiated with doses up to 600 kGy using a 60Co gamma source. Subsequently, thermal aging at 125°C was applied for up to one year. Degradation effects in the materials were characterized using colorimetry, UV-Vis spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and DSC. Both materials exhibited a yellowing upon irradiation. The discoloration of UHMW-PE disappeared again after thermal aging. Therefore, the yellowing is assumed to originate from annealable color centers in the form of free radicals that are trapped in the crystalline regions of the polymer and recombine at elevated temperatures. For the antioxidant-containing HMW-PE, yellowing was observed after both irradiation and thermal aging. The color change was correlated mainly to decomposition products of the antioxidant in addition to trapped radicals as in UHMW-PE. Additionally, black spots appeared after thermal aging of HMW-PE.
High-Frequency EEG Variations in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder during Human Faces Visualization
Authors: Paula Celina A. Reis , Reategui Camille , Costa Bruna Karen de Sousa , Fonseca Caio Queiroz da , Silva Luana da , Morya Edgard , Brasil Fabricio Lima
Published: September 2017

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by the impairment in the social reciprocity, interaction/language, and behavior, with stereotypes and signs of sensory function deficits. Electroencephalography (EEG) is a well-established and noninvasive tool for neurophysiological characterization and monitoring of the brain electrical activity, able to identify abnormalities related to frequency range, connectivity, and lateralization of brain functions. This research aims to evidence quantitative differences in the frequency spectrum pattern between EEG signals of children with and without ASD during visualization of human faces in three different expressions: neutral, happy, and angry. Quantitative clinical evaluations, neuropsychological evaluation, and EEG of children with and without ASD were analyzed paired by age and gender. The results showed stronger activation in higher frequencies (above 30 Hz) in frontal, central, parietal, and occipital regions in the ASD group. This pattern of activation may correlate with developmental characteristics in the children with ASD.
Comparison of Esophageal Function Tests in Chinese Patients with Functional Heartburn and Reflux Hypersensitivity
Authors: Gao Feng , Gao Yan , Chen Xue , Qian Jie , Zhang Jie
Published: September 2017

Objective. To investigate the differences in the results of esophageal function tests for functional heartburn (FH) and reflux hypersensitivity (RH). Methods. Patients with FH and RH and healthy volunteers (HVs) from the Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital and Beijing Chao-Yang hospital, who underwent high-resolution manometry and impedance (HRIM), and 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH recording (MII/pH) between 2014 and 2016, were enrolled in this study. Results. 36 HV, 147 FH patients, and 91 RH patients were enrolled. The postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index (PSPW index) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) values were significantly lower in RH than in FH and HV. The ineffective esophageal motility (IEM), fragmented peristalsis rates, total bolus exposure, proximal total reflux events, and distal total reflux events were significantly greater in RH than in FH and HV. Conclusions. Compared to HV and FH patients, RH patients exhibited greater IEM and fragmented peristalsis rates, a greater total bolus exposure, more proximal total and distal total reflux events, and reduced chemical clearance and mucosal integrity. By using the above described parameters, HRIM and MII/pH assays could be used to correctly classify RH and FH and hence allow physicians to provide adequate relief from associated symptoms.
Infrapatellar Fat Pad Stem Cells: From Developmental Biology to Cell Therapy
Authors: do Amaral Ronaldo J. F. C. , Almeida Henrique V. , Kelly Daniel J. , O’Brien Fergal J. , Kearney Cathal J.
Published: September 2017

The ideal cell type to be used for cartilage therapy should possess a proven chondrogenic capacity, not cause donor-site morbidity, and should be readily expandable in culture without losing their phenotype. There are several cell sources being investigated to promote cartilage regeneration: mature articular chondrocytes, chondrocyte progenitors, and various stem cells. Most recently, stem cells isolated from joint tissue, such as chondrogenic stem/progenitors from cartilage itself, synovial fluid, synovial membrane, and infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) have gained great attention due to their increased chondrogenic capacity over the bone marrow and subcutaneous adipose-derived stem cells. In this review, we first describe the IFP anatomy and compare and contrast it with other adipose tissues, with a particular focus on the embryological and developmental aspects of the tissue. We then discuss the recent advances in IFP stem cells for regenerative medicine. We compare their properties with other stem cell types and discuss an ontogeny relationship with other joint cells and their role onin vivocartilage repair. We conclude with a perspective for future clinical trials using IFP stem cells.
Comparative Study between Plastic and Metallic Stents for Biliary Decompression in Patients with Distal Biliary Obstruction
Authors: Cabral João Guilherme G. , Taglieri Eloy , Pelosof Adriane , Rosendo Daniel , Ardengh José Celso
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a retrospective comparison of plastic versus metallic stents in the drainage of malignant distal biliary obstructions. We compared single plastic stents (SPS), multiple plastic stents (MPS), and metallic stents (SEMS) regarding clinical decrease of TB < 2.0 mg/dL, long-term patency, and adverse event. 58 patients (38 women) with MDBO were included. Diagnoses were 44 pancreatic adenocarcinoma (74.6%), 9 metastasis (15.5%), 3 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (5.1%), and 2 adenocarcinoma in the major papilla (3.4%). The number of patients included in the SPS, MPS, and SEMS was 17, 6, and 35, respectively. Comparing the survival curves with respect to obstruction, we observed a lower mean permeability of the SPS compared to that of the MPS with p<0.003 and of the SEMS group (p<0.01). There was no statistical difference between the use of MPS, despite the small number of patients compared to the use of SEMS (p<0.13) to reach the satisfactory levels of bilirubin.
Advanced In Situ I-V Measurements Used in the Study of Porous Structures Growth on Silicon
Authors: Benor Amare
Published: September 2017

The rate of oxide formation during growth of pores structures on silicon was investigated by in situ I-V measurements. The measurements were designed to get two I-V curves in a short time (total time for the two measurements was 300 seconds) taking into account the gap (in mA/cm2) for each corresponding voltage. The in situ I-V measurements were made at different pore depth/time, at the electrolyte-pore tip interface, while etching takes place based on p-type Si. The results showed increasing, decreasing, and constant I-V gap in time, for macropores, nanopores, and electropolishing regimes, respectively. This was related to the expected diffusion limitation of oxide forming (H2O) molecules reaching the electrolyte-pore tip and the anodizing current, while etching takes place. The method can be developed further and has the potential to be applied in other electrochemically etched porous semiconductor materials.
Multidrug Resistant Enteric Bacterial Pathogens in a Psychiatric Hospital in Ghana: Implications for Control of Nosocomial Infections
Authors: Duedu Kwabena O. , Offei George , Codjoe Francis S. , Donkor Eric S.
Published: September 2017

Enteric bacteria are commonly implicated in hospital-acquired or nosocomial infections. In Ghana, these infections constitute an important public health problem but little is known about their contribution to antibiotic resistance. The aim of the study was to determine the extent and pattern of antibiotic resistance of enteric bacteria isolated from patients and environmental sources at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital. A total of 265 samples were collected from the study site including 142 stool and 82 urine samples from patients, 7 swab samples of door handle, and 3 samples of drinking water. Enteric bacteria were isolated using standard microbiological methods. Antibiograms of the isolates were determined using the disc diffusion method. Overall, 232 enteric bacteria were isolated. Escherichia coli was the most common (38.3%), followed by Proteus (19.8%), Klebsiella (17.7%), Citrobacter (14.7%), Morganella (8.2%), and Pseudomonas (1.3%). All isolates were resistant to ampicillin but sensitive to cefotaxime. The resistance ranged from 15.5% to 84.5%. Multidrug resistance was most prevalent (100%) among isolates of Proteus and Morganella and least prevalent among isolates of Pseudomonas (33.3%). Multidrug resistance among enteric bacteria at the study hospital is high and hence there is a need for screening before therapy to ensure prudent use of antibiotics.
Retrospective analysis of growth A contribution to sustainable forest management in the tropics
Authors: Lotfiomran Neda , Köhl Michael
Published: September 2017

Reliable information on tree growth is a prerequisite for sustainable forest management (SFM). However, in tropical forests its implementation is often hampered by insufficient knowledge of the growth dynamics of trees. Although tree ring analysis of tropical trees has a long history, its application for SFM has only recently been considered. In the current study, we illustrate both the potentials and limitations of a retrospective growth assessment by tree ring analysis under the prevailing tropical conditions in a Surinamese rain forest. For this purpose, 38 commercial tree species were screened and grouped into three categories according to the visibility of their tree ring boundaries: (I) tree rings absent or indistinct, (II) distinct but partially vague tree rings which enable approximate age estimation, (III) very distinct tree rings. In 22 out of 38 commercial tree species distinct to very distinct tree ring boundaries could be identified. The anatomy of tree ring boundaries was described following Worbes and Fichtler (2010). Four species with distinct growth rings, Cedrela odorata, Hymenaea courbaril, Pithecellobium corymbosum and Goupia glabra, were studied in greater detail. Time-series analysis was used to characterise their radial growth. From the tree ring width, the annual diameter increment and cumulative diameter growth were calculated to find long-term growth patterns. Pithecellobium corymbosum and partially Hymenaea courbaril followed a typical S-shaped growth curve. By contrast, Goupia glabra and Cedrela odorata did not exhibit an age-related decrease of growth, but showed a constant linear growth over their entire life span. If based on more sample trees, such data can provide target-oriented information for improving SFM in tropical forests.
First record of the genus Oxyrrhexis Foerster, 1869 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae, Ephialtini) for the fauna of Egypt, with an unexpected new host record
Authors: GADALLAH NEVEEN S. , EL-HENNAWY HISHAM K.
Published: September 2017

Oxyrrhexis Foerster, 1869 of the Polysphincta genus-group, is recorded for the first time for the Egyptian fauna, with one species, O. carbonator (Gravenhorst, 1807). Specimens have been reared from the titanoecid spider Nurscia albomaculata (Lucas, 1846), which represents a new host record for O. carbonator as well as for the Polysphincta genus-group as a whole.
Notes on the genus Rasilinus Mazur, 2016 (Curculionidae: Curculioninae, Eugnomini), with the description of a new species from New Caledonia
Authors: MAZUR MIŁOSZ A.
Published: September 2017

New data on the genus Rasilinus (Curculioninae, Eugnomini) are provided, including the description of a new species—Rasilinus bifasciatus sp. n., from New Caledonia. Illustrations and SEM photographs of male external morphology, terminalia, and a colour habitus of the adult of the new species are provided.
Two new species of Langelurillus Próchniewicz, 1994 from India (Araneae: Salticidae: Aelurillina)
Authors: SANAP RAJESH V. , JOGLEKAR ANURADHA , PRAJAPATI DHRUV A. , CALEB JOHN T.D.
Published: September 2017

Two new species, Langelurillus lacteus sp. nov. and L. onyx sp. nov., are described from India. Detailed illustrations and record map are given.
Applying the Relative Acculturation Extended Model to Examine Black Americans’ Perspectives on African Immigrant Acculturation
Authors: Thelamour Barbara
Published: September 2017

This study used the Relative Acculturation Extended Model to capture Black Americans’ ( N = 173) perceptions of and preferences for African immigrant acculturation to the Black American host culture in seven life domains (i.e., social relationships, values, spending, family dynamic, group educational concern, race relations, and political engagement). Participants also had the opportunity to provide qualitative statements to elaborate on their survey responses. Contrary to existing literature, survey analyses showed that Black Americans generally perceived African immigrants as integrated. More than half of the domains were found to be under the separation acculturation strategy. In addition, integration was the strategy most preferred. Marginalization was not an acculturation strategy that Black Americans observed or wanted. Within-subject ANOVAs revealed main effects of domain, perceptions (vs. preferences), but not for culture. Analysis of the qualitative statements expanded the quantitative findings, not only highlighting the places Black Americans perceive difference, but also emphasizing their hope for African immigrant acculturation to and alliance with their culture. The emphasis on Black Americans as the host culture provides an alternative but much-needed view on immigrant acculturation, adding nuance to the long-standing narrative of contention between these two groups.
Jackfruit seeds from Jharkhand
Authors: Kikon Dolly
Published: September 2017

This article examines how adivasis in Assam assert their sense of belonging to the land. Based on ethnographic fieldwork conducted along the foothills bordering Assam and Nagaland, I present the everyday lives of adivasi villagers in a militarised landscape and examine how adivasi belonging and identity are constructed in a political milieu where ideas of indigeneity and territoriality are deeply internalised. I look into how adivasi accounts highlight the weaving together of the histories of the tea plantations and social alliances with neighbours in the villages. I argue that these narratives are used to assert rights and claim an identity of belonging. Specifically focusing on adivasi accounts situated outside the tea plantations in Assam, this article seeks to contribute towards scholarship about everyday practices of belonging, memory and social relations in Northeast India and beyond.
Well-placement optimisation using sequential artificial neural networks
Authors: Jang Ilsik , Oh Seeun , Kim Yumi , Park Changhyup , Kang Hyunjeong
Published: September 2017

In this study, a new algorithm is proposed by employing artificial neural networks in a sequential manner, termed the sequential artificial neural network, to obtain a global solution for optimizing the drilling location of oil or gas reservoirs. The developed sequential artificial neural network is used to successively narrow the search space to efficiently obtain the global solution. When training each artificial neural network, pre-defined amount of data within the new search space are added to the training dataset to improve the estimation performance. When the size of the search space meets a stopping criterion, reservoir simulations are performed for data in the search space, and a global solution is determined among the simulation results. The proposed method was applied to optimise a horizontal well placement in a coalbed methane reservoir. The results show a superior performance in optimisation while significantly reducing the number of simulations compared to the particle-swarm optimisation algorithm.
Childhood emotional maltreatment and psychological aggression in young adult dating relationships: The moderating role of emotion communication
Authors: Loucks Laura A. , van Dellen Michelle , Shaffer Anne
Published: September 2017

This study examines childhood emotional maltreatment as a developmental predictor of psychological aggression perpetration in young adult dating couples, using a dyadic framework to account for individual and partner effects. We further investigate observations of skillful emotion communication (i.e., discussion of emotional experiences, including emotion identification and disclosure) as potential moderator. In a sample of 60 young adult romantic couples, actor–partner interdependence model analyses found significant actor effects of emotional maltreatment on psychological aggression perpetration, but no partner effects. Consistent with hypotheses, observations of higher skillful emotion communication attenuated associations between childhood emotional maltreatment and young adult psychological aggression, but only for female participants. Findings are discussed in the context of implications for prevention and intervention for couples at risk of psychological aggression.
Redo surgery using IntraLase femtosecond laser for treating a decentered laser in situ keratomileusis flap
Authors: Lei Yulin , Hou Jie , Zheng Xiuyun
Published: September 2017

Objective

Decentered flaps are rarely reported after femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis flap procedures. We present a patient with a decentered flap after preparation of a corneal flap using the Femto LDV technique.

Methods

The 22-year-old man required a redo operation because of a decentered corneal flap. It was performed the same day at the patient's insistence and with his consent. The new corneal flap for the redo surgery was prepared using the femtosecond laser technique and IntraLase.

Results

Uncorrected visual acuity for each eye was 1.2 during the 12-month follow-up. The results of the Femtosecond laser technique showed good predictability and repeatability regarding the preparation of corneal flaps, but it still may cause some intraoperative complications.

Conclusion

Once redo surgery is needed, the size and depth of the initially prepared flap should be determined using anterior segment optical coherence tomography to pre-set the parameters for preparation of the redo flap.
Optimal control simulation of elliptical shaft center orbit with the hydraulic servo system
Authors: Liang Peng , Lu Changhou , Yang Fazhan
Published: September 2017

To bore elliptical hole, the present research proposes hydraulic servo system and the control method to control the shaft center movement orbit. Considering the control difficulty when there are a small number of collocation points, the present research uses optimal control method to solve the control difficulty. Gauss pseudospectral method, which is often used in aerospace field, is applied to obtain relation between shaft center coordinate and load capacity of bearing. And the relation between load capacity and servo valve spool displacement is deduced with flow continuity equation. After the two steps above, the mathematic relation between shaft center coordinate and spool displacement is eventually obtained. The simulation results indicate that compared to the Eulerian control method, optimal control method has better self-adaptation, faster control rate, and higher control accuracy. Even if the starting movement point of shaft center is not on the expected elliptical orbit, or shaft is disturbed by instantaneous external force or dynamical force, the optimal control method still makes the shaft center orbit quickly get close to the expected ellipse. The present research lays theoretical foundation for new boring method of elliptical hole.
Production events graphical deduction model enabled real-time production control system for smart job shop
Authors: Wang Chuang , Jiang Pingyu , Lu Tiantian
Published: September 2017

Under industry 4.0, the production control system of smart job shop should be able to real-time respond to various production events and effectively coordinate different kinds of manufacturing resources in good order according to their material flows. Production events enabled real-time production control system is good at responsibility and flexibility. Internet of things (IoT) can provide enormous real-time production events, which represent the change of material flows. However, some of production events seriously interfere with production control procedures. They sharply restrict the real-time capability of production control system. Thus, it is imperative that an efficient realization method of production control system, which is enabled by useful production events. Additionally, the control system should satisfy production control procedures visibility. For solving the problems, a production events graphical deduction model enabled real-time production control system for smart job shop is proposed in this article. Firstly, the manufacturing resources are divided into work in process related, operator-related, cutting tool-related, fixture tool-related, and measuring tool-related. And the material flows of different manufacturing resources in IoT-enabled smart job shop are described in detail. Secondly, the graphical deduction model of production event is put forward. Based on the model, the material flows of manufacturing resources in a process are segmented into several stages according to different production events. And then, the cooperation model of manufacturing resources is established by using the time and logical relationships between production events. Thirdly, the control model in a process is drawn from the cooperation model. Next, the entire control procedure of work in process production in IoT-enabled smart job shop is proposed. Finally, a small-scale IoT-enabled manufacturing system is used to verify the feasibility of the proposed model and methods.
Porosity-dependent vibration and dynamic stability of compositionally gradient nanofilms using nonlocal strain gradient theory
Authors: Barati Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2017

Porosity-dependent free vibration and dynamic stability of functionally graded nanofilms are studied according to the nonlocal strain gradient theory. Two-scale coefficients are considered to incorporate both nonlocality and strain gradient impacts. The nanofilm is subjected to in-plane hygro-thermal and harmonic mechanical loads. Uniform dispersion of porosities is considered according to a power-law model for functionally graded materials. Galerkin's approach is employed to obtain the vibration frequencies as well as stability regions. One can see that stability regions and vibration frequencies of a functionally graded nanofilm are significantly affected by static load parameter, dynamic load parameter, porosities, moisture change, temperature change, and elastic substrate nonlocal strain gradient coefficients.
Exploring Symptom Clusters in People With Heart Failure
Authors: Park Jumin , Moser Debra K. , Griffith Kathleen , Harring Jeffrey R. , Johantgen Meg
Published: September 2017

Patients with heart failure (HF) experience multiple symptoms or symptom clusters. The purposes of this study were to (a) determine if distinct latent classes of HF symptoms could be identified, and (b) explore whether sociodemographic and clinical characteristics influenced symptom cluster membership. A total of 4,011 HF patients recruited from outpatient setting completed the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), including five physical symptoms (edema, shortness of breath, fatigue-increased need to rest, fatigue-low energy, and sleep difficulties) and three psychological symptoms (worrying, feeling depressed, and cognitive problems). Four distinct classes using latent class profile analysis were identified: low distress (Class 1), physical distress (Class 2), psychological distress (Class 3), and high distress (Class 4). Significant differences among the four latent classes were found for age, education level, and comorbidities. Symptom clusters are useful for recognition of HF symptoms, allowing for the development of strategies that target symptom groups.
Environmental Change, Migration, and Conflict in Africa: A Critical Examination of the Interconnections
Authors: Freeman Laura
Published: September 2017

How should we understand the interconnections between environmental change, migration, and conflict in Africa? Should the rise of Islamic terrorism and Boko Haram in northeast Nigeria be directly linked to the drying of Lake Chad? Should cattle raiding in Kenya be seen as a result of drought across East Africa? Does the constrained migration of the pastoral Tuareg in the Sahel causally connect to desertification and their rebellion against governmental forces? Despite the compelling and often persuasive case for directly connecting environmental change to migration and conflict, there is a growing agreement in both the environment-migration and climate-conflict spheres that intervening variables determine if and how environmental change causes population movements and political violence. This article presents a case for migration as an intermediary and bidirectional causal variable. The article argues that close attention needs to be paid to local-level manifestations of conflict and (mal)adaptive forms of migration to understand the potential propensity of environmental change to lead to conflict in Africa.
Should Emergency Endoscopy be Performed in All Patients With Suspected Colonic Diverticular Hemorrhage?
Authors: Uehara Takeshi , Matsumoto Satohiro , Miyatani Hiroyuki , Mashima Hirosato
Published: September 2017

Objective:

We attempted to develop a scoring system for facilitating decision making regarding the performance of emergency endoscopy in patients with colonic diverticular hemorrhage.

Methods:

This study involved analysis of the data of 178 patients who presented with hematochezia and were diagnosed as having colonic diverticular hemorrhage by colonoscopy. The patients were divided into 2 groups depending on whether the bleeding source was identified or not at the initial endoscopy (source-identified and source-not-identified groups), and on the basis of the results obtained, we established a scoring system for predicting successful identification of the bleeding source.

Results:

The percentages of patients on oral anticoagulant therapy or with a Charlson comorbidity index of ≥6, serum C-reactive protein level of ≥1 mg/dL, or extravasation of contrast medium visualized on contrast-enhanced computed tomographic (CT) images were all significantly higher in the identified than in the nonidentified group. Multivariate analysis identified extravasation of contrast medium on contrast-enhanced CT images (odds ratio [OR]: 10.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7-42.2) and use of anticoagulants (OR: 4.5; 95% CI: 1.5-13.5) as independent predictors of successful identification of the bleeding source at the initial endoscopy in patients with colonic diverticular hemorrhage. On the basis of these results, we established a scoring system, which showed a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 81% for successful identification of the bleeding source at the initial endoscopy.

Conclusions:

Herein, we propose a scoring system as a useful tool for determining whether emergency endoscopy is indicated in individual patients with suspected colonic diverticular hemorrhage.
Bicameralism and Coalition Cabinets in Presidential Polities: A configurational analysis of the coalition formation and duration processes
Authors: Albala Adrián
Published: September 2017

For too long, scholars have studied coalitions under presidential regimes as they did under parliamentarism: assuming that the executive needed to look for allies in only one chamber. However, symmetric bicameralism has made such assumption untenable. As a matter of fact, bicameralism, particularly symmetrical bicameralism, as it operates under presidential regimes, may entail significant constraints for policymaking and coalition duration. Indeed, controlling one of the two chambers may not be sufficient for the president to ensure policy approvals. This article focuses on the 28 coalition cabinets with a bicameral framework in Latin America since the return of democracy. I show that bicameralism dramatically affects the composition of the coalitions as the absence of a majority in both chambers engenders a post-electoral agreement round. Moreover, I show that when a coalition holds some kind of majority in both houses, the coalition agreement lasts longer.
Challenging trends in configuration research: Where are the configurations?
Authors: Miller Danny
Published: September 2017

The configuration approach to the study of organizations is enjoying increasing popularity, in part, due to the methodological advances of qualitative comparative analysis. I argue that there are significant contrasts between earlier taxonomic clustering and typology approaches to configuration and the newer ones being pursued with the qualitative comparative analysis methodology. I compare the two approaches and their application, arguing that what is missing in many studies, old and new, often due to the lack of qualitative evidence, is “configuration itself”—that is, contrasting common, thematic, and rich characterizations that provide insight into how organizations function.
The Role of the Accessory Malleolar Ossicles and Malleolar Avulsion Fractures in Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Reiner Matthew M. , Sharpe Jonathan J.
Published: September 2017

While it is well known that ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in the United States, predictive factors regarding failure of conservative treatment are not well known. There are many biomechanical and epidemiological factors that play a role in recurrence and failure of conservative treatment, but most cases are able to be treated with immobilization and/or rest, ice, elevation, physical therapy, and bracing. We propose that one important risk factor is often overlooked simply due to the fact that a vast majority of these cases resolve without the need for surgery. Accessory ossicles and avulsion fractures of the malleoli or talus may represent a predisposition or marker for ligamentous damage that may lead to the need for lateral ankle ligament repair or reconstruction in the future. We have identified 61 consecutive patients who underwent lateral ankle ligament repair or reconstruction by the primary surgeon from the years 2007 to 2017. Out of those patients who met our inclusion and exclusion criteria, 66% had the presence of osseous pathology consisting of accessory ossicles or avulsion fractures of the medial or lateral malleolus or talus. The proportion of osseous pathology seen with lateral ankle ligament repair or reconstruction was higher than what has been previously reported in both operative and nonoperative settings. This may help identify a risk factor for failure of conservative treatment in patients presenting with acute ankle sprains or ankle instability especially in the active cohort.

Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Case series
What’s in It for Me? Perspective Taking as an Intervention for Improving Attitudes Toward Diversity Management
Authors: Madera Juan M.
Published: September 2017

Hospitality organizations are increasingly investing in diversity management to address the reality of a diverse hospitality workforce. The effectiveness of diversity management highly depends on employee supportive attitudes; however, extant research shows that not all employees have positive attitudes toward diversity management. Using experimental methods, the current study examines situational perspective taking of discrimination—imagining being the target of workplace discrimination—as an intervention to influence the perceived utility and importance of diversity management using frontline hotel managers (Study 1) and hospitality students seeking careers in hospitality (Study 2) with two different methods of collecting data. Both studies showed that situational perspective taking of discrimination increases the perceived utility and importance of diversity management. Mediation analyses showed that it is through inducing negative affect that situational perspective taking leads to more positive attitudes toward diversity management. The results provide insight for hospitality organizations that use corporate websites and other recruitment activities to promote support for diversity management. Specifically, organizations should prime egocentric biases by emphasizing that diversity management protects all employees, regardless of different demographic characteristics, from workplace discrimination.
Risk assessment of choledocholithiasis prior to laparoscopic cholecystectomy and its management options
Authors: Aleknaite Ausra , Simutis Gintaras , Stanaitis Juozas , Valantinas Jonas , Strupas Kestutis
Published: September 2017

Background

Accurate risk evaluation of choledocholithiasis prior to laparoscopic cholecystectomy is essential to determine optimal management strategy.

Objective

Our study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of separate predictors and Vilnius University Hospital Index (VUHI = A/30 + 0.4 × B; A = total bilirubin concentration (µmol/l), B = common bile duct (CBD) diameter (mm) measured by ultrasound) diagnosing choledocholithiasis and to assess different management strategies (cholecystectomy with intraoperative cholangiography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)).

Methods

The retrospective study included 350 patients admitted to a tertiary care centre for laparoscopic cholecystectomy for cholecystolithiasis who were investigated for concomitant choledocholithiasis.

Results

Choledocholithiasis was diagnosed in 182 (76.2%) cases in the high-risk group (VUHI value ≥4.7) and 44 (39.6%) in the low, odds ratio is 4.86 (95% CI: 3.00–7.88). Its sensitivity was 80.5%, specificity 54.0%, accuracy 71.1%. Dilated CBD had the highest sensitivity (92.5%) of predictors. ERCP showed better diagnostic performance than intraoperative cholangiography. Complications of ERCP were more frequent for patients without stones. There was no significant difference of outcomes between the two management strategies.

Conclusion

The prognostic index has good diagnostic accuracy but dividing patients into two risk groups is insufficient. The suggested model allows determining an intermediate-risk group, which requires additional investigation. Both management approaches are appropriate.
Under what conditions can a nonprescription drug label serve as refutation text? The role of directed attention and processing strategy
Authors: Ryan Michael P , Costa Paula L , Cruz Aubrey B
Published: September 2017

Nonprescription drug labels are relatively ineffective in refuting drug misconceptions. We sought to improve the effectiveness of an aspirin label as a refutation text by manipulating selective attention and label-processing strategy. After reading a facsimile label, those of 196 undergraduates who attempted to explain why shaded drug facts are “easily confused” recalled more refuting drug facts than participants who attempted to explain why those facts are “easily ignored.” However, “easily confused” processing did not change truth ratings of misconceptions associated with those drug facts. We conclude that refuted misconceptions remain in memory but are inhibited by disconfirming drug facts.
Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life among People Living with HIV in Xinjiang, West China
Authors: Maimaiti Rena , Yuexin Zhang , Kejun Pan , Wubili Maimaitaili , Lalanne Christophe , Duracinsky Martin , Andersson Rune
Published: September 2017

In total, 679 HIV-positive patients from 4 clinics in Urumqi city were given structured questionnaires by the doctors or nurses treating them. Health-related quality of life (HRQL) was assessed using the Chinese Patient-Reported Outcome Quality of Life-HIV questionnaire versions in Mandarin and Uyghur. This tool has been used in other parts of China and several countries. Compared to France, Australia, United States, Brazil, Thailand, Cambodia, Senegal, and Central-Southern China (CS China), the HRQL was significantly lower among HIV-positive patients in Xinjiang, with regard to the dimension of treatment impact and general health score. The health concern was similar to Brazil and Cambodia but lower than other countries and CS China. Our findings showed high stigmatization: 86% of the patients were afraid to tell others they were HIV positive and 69% often felt or always felt depressed. Only 1% of the patients were on antidepressant treatment.
Home food availability, parents’/caregivers’ support, and family meals influence on dietary servings of low-income urban adolescent girls from Brazil
Authors: Barco Leme Ana Carolina , Tucunduva Philippi Sonia
Published: September 2017

Background

There is a striking lack of evidence about parents’/caregivers’ influence on their children’s dietary intake across Brazil and other middle- and low-income countries. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the associations between adolescents’ dietary intake and home environment, family meals and parental support.

Methods

Cross-sectional study with 14–18 years old adolescent girls was conducted in 10 public schools in the city of São Paulo. Girls’ dietary intake, home food environment, parental support, and family meals’ frequency were self-reported by 253 adolescents. Brazilian Food Pyramid recommendation was used as reference for the dietary intake. Linear regressions were used to verify the associations between home environmental, parental support, and family meal frequency with dietary intake.

Results

Girls parents’ support for healthy eating was positively associated with the fruits group (mean (95%CI) 0.75 (0.66 to 0.84) ß = 0.26, p = 0.003), and the vegetables group (3.40 (3.08 to 3.72, ß = 0.25, p = 0.006) and negatively associated with the meat and eggs group (2.09 (1.93 to 2.25), ß = −0.14, p = 0.041). Home environment was associated with fruits group (0.73 (0.63 to 0.82), ß = 0.35, p = 0.001). The associations between sharing family meals and food groups were not statistically significant. However, girls demonstrated a positive association with dietary intake and sharing family meals.

Conclusion

Parental support and home food environment were associated with dietary intake of the adolescent girls. Future studies—mainly from low- and middle-income countries —are needed to provide additional evidence on these associations and the effects of youth home environment.