bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shelter Environment and Placement in Community Affects Lifestyle Factors among Homeless Families in Minnesota
Authors: Richards Rickelle , Smith Chery 
Published: January 2018

Purpose To investigate the impact of the shelter environment and surrounding community on lifestyle factors influencing the health of homeless families. Design and Setting Seven focus groups were conducted at two homeless shelters serving families in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Food resources and food prices at convenience stores were recorded within a five-block radius of shelters. Subjects Low-income parents of children aged 3–12 years (n = 53). Measures Focus groups were transcribed verbatim, evaluated for common themes, coded, and reevaluated for consistency. Food resources were mapped via GIS software, and recorded food prices were compared to available TFP market basket prices. Analysis Results The shelter environment and surrounding community influenced lifestyle factors related to health, including food access and availability, exercise behaviors, job access, and day care issues. Participants commented that location of grocery stores, inflated prices, and poor food quality and variety limited their families’ food choice and access. Walking was the main form of exercise and served as a means of transportation. Finding employment, housing, and affordable day care caused high levels of stress because of inadequate social support and government subsidies. Conclusions Several strategies should be considered to modify environments affecting lifestyle factors among homeless families, including greater affordability and access of food, reevaluation of food stamp allotments, alterations in urban planning designs, and increased access to affordable day care.
Evaluation of a Community-based Health Promotion Program for the Elderly: Lessons from Seniors CAN
Authors: Collins Claudia C. , Benedict Jamie 
Published: January 2018

Purpose To evaluate the effects of a community-based educational program designed to promote health by enhancing older adults’ mastery while decreasing loneliness and stress. Methods Between 1999 and 2004, 339 older adults who participated in Seniors CAN completed standardized assessments of mastery, loneliness, and stress, prior to and upon completion of the 4–month intervention. Participants’ scores were compared using paired t-tests to measure changes from preintervention to postintervention. Change scores were then subjected to three-way ANOVA to assess the relative effectiveness based upon participants’ sociodemographic characteristics. Results Participants demonstrated significant improvements from preintervention to postintervention for mastery, loneliness, and stress. Additional analysis revealed that improvement in loneliness was significantly greater among low-income ethnic minorities and minorities with a high level of formal education, p < .05. Conclusion The 16-week intervention resulted in significant improvements in constructs associated with better health and a higher quality of life for independent-living older adults. These findings suggest that a community-based educational intervention can be an effective strategy to reduce risk and promote the health and independence of older adults.
Efficiency and Its Determinants: Panel Data Evidence from the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Mahajan Varun , Nauriyal D. K. , Singh S. P. 
Published: January 2018

The study determines the efficiency of Indian pharmaceutical firms and its determinants in the pre- and post-product patent regime. Overall inefficiency in the industry is higher due to the inefficient conversion of inputs into output rather than through scale inefficiency. The study finds that the Product Patent Act has a negative impact on efficiency. Ownership, capital imports intensity and size variables are positively related with efficiency scores whereas age, time dummy and size square variables are inversely related. The study supports the finding that with an increase in mergers and acquisitions, a movement towards diversifying operations, the use of advanced imported foreign technology, investment in fixed assets and judicious allocation of resources for marketing activities could improve firm performance. For future policy implications, the small firms may either merge into bigger entities or manufacture pharmaceutical products for other companies, so as to raise operational scale and improve capacity utilisation. JEL Classification: C02, C61, D2, L65
The IS Curve and Monetary Policy Transmission in India: A New Keynesian Perspective
Authors: Salunkhe Bhavesh , Patnaik Anuradha 
Published: January 2018

The present study assesses the empirical performance of the new Keynesian IS model by estimating the standard as well as extended specifications of both the backward-looking and hybrid models in India over the period 1998Q1 to 2015Q4. It is found that the backward-looking IS model fits the data quite well in comparison with the hybrid model. The link between the policy rate and output gap appeared to be a bit stronger in the extended backward-looking IS model, as the interest rate coefficient is larger. Also, besides the interest rate, the real exchange rate, external demand and crude oil prices also have an impact on aggregate demand. The results suggest that the standard specification of the IS curve is inadequate to estimate the impact of the interest rate on aggregate demand and therefore a broader framework which accounts for additional variables besides the interest rate may be required. JEL Classification: E520, E120, C360, E510
Facial Expressiveness in Infants With and Without Craniofacial Microsomia
Authors: Hammal Zakia , Cohn Jeffrey F. , Wallace Erin R. , Heike Carrie L. , Birgfeld Craig B. , Oster Harriet , Speltz Matthew L. 
Published: January 2018

Objective: To compare facial expressiveness (FE) of infants with and without craniofacial microsomia (cases and controls, respectively) and to compare phenotypic variation among cases in relation to FE. Design: Positive and negative affect was elicited in response to standardized emotion inductions, video recorded, and manually coded from video using the Facial Action Coding System for Infants and Young Children. Setting: Five craniofacial centers: Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Illinois–Chicago, and University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill. Participants: Eighty ethnically diverse 12- to 14-month-old infants. Main Outcome Measures: FE was measured on a frame-by-frame basis as the sum of 9 observed facial action units (AUs) representative of positive and negative affect. Results: FE differed between conditions intended to elicit positive and negative affect (95% confidence interval = 0.09-0.66, P = .01). FE failed to differ between cases and controls (ES = –0.16 to –0.02, P = .47 to .92). Among cases, those with and without mandibular hypoplasia showed similar levels of FE (ES = –0.38 to 0.54, P = .10 to .66). Conclusions: FE varied between positive and negative affect, and cases and controls responded similarly. Null findings for case/control differences may be attributable to a lower than anticipated prevalence of nerve palsy among cases, the selection of AUs, or the use of manual coding. In future research, we will reexamine group differences using an automated, computer vision approach that can cover a broader range of facial movements and their dynamics.
Adaptive parametric prediction of event times in clinical trials
Authors: Lan Yu , Heitjan Daniel F 
Published: January 2018

Background: In event-based clinical trials, it is common to conduct interim analyses at planned landmark event counts. Accurate prediction of the timing of these events can support logistical planning and the efficient allocation of resources. As the trial progresses, one may wish to use the accumulating data to refine predictions. Purpose: Available methods to predict event times include parametric cure and non-cure models and a nonparametric approach involving Bayesian bootstrap simulation. The parametric methods work well when their underlying assumptions are met, and the nonparametric method gives calibrated but inefficient predictions across a range of true models. In the early stages of a trial, when predictions have high marginal value, it is difficult to infer the form of the underlying model. We seek to develop a method that will adaptively identify the best-fitting model and use it to create robust predictions. Methods: At each prediction time, we repeat the following steps: (1) resample the data; (2) identify, from among a set of candidate models, the one with the highest posterior probability; and (3) sample from the predictive posterior of the data under the selected model. Results: A Monte Carlo study demonstrates that the adaptive method produces prediction intervals whose coverage is robust within the family of selected models. The intervals are generally wider than those produced assuming the correct model, but narrower than nonparametric prediction intervals. We demonstrate our method with applications to two completed trials: The International Chronic Granulomatous Disease study and Radiation Therapy Oncology Group trial 0129. Limitations: Intervals produced under any method can be badly calibrated when the sample size is small and unhelpfully wide when predicting the remote future. Early predictions can be inaccurate if there are changes in enrollment practices or trends in survival. Conclusions: An adaptive event-time prediction method that selects the model given the available data can give improved robustness compared to methods based on less flexible parametric models.
Evaluation of Hematocrit Influence on Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose Based on ISO 15197:2013: Comparison of a Novel System With Five Systems With Different Hematocrit Ranges
Authors: Hattemer Andrew , Wardat Sami 
Published: January 2018

Introduction: ISO 15197:2013 recommends testing procedures and acceptance criteria for the evaluation of influence quantities such as hematocrit on measurement results with systems for self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). In this study, hematocrit influence was evaluated for a novel SMBG system (system A) and five other systems with different hematocrit ranges based on ISO 15197:2013. Methods: Test procedures were performed with one test strip lot for each system. Each system was tested within the hematocrit range indicated in the manufacturer’s labeling (system A: 10-65%, B: 15-65%, C: 20-60%, D: 35-60%, E: 30-60%, F: 30-55%). According to ISO 15197:2013, clause 6.4.2, venous blood samples were used for the evaluation of hematocrit influence. The evaluation was performed for three glucose concentration categories (30-50 mg/dL, 96-144 mg/dL, and 280-420 mg/dL). For each glucose concentration category, at least five different hematocrit levels were investigated. Results: The novel system A and systems B, E, and F complied with the tested lot with the defined criteria and showed ≤10 mg/dL and ≤10% difference between the test sample and the respective control sample with a hematocrit value of 42% ± 2% for BG concentrations <100 mg/dL and ≥100 mg/dL, respectively. Two systems showed >10% difference at glucose concentrations ≥100 mg/dL. Conclusions: Remarkable hematocrit influence within the labeled hematocrit range was obtained in two systems with the tested reagent system lot. Adequate SMBG systems should be carefully chosen by patients and their health care professionals, particularly for patients with increased and decreased hematocrit values.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: Acute findings on coronary computed tomography angiography
Authors: Tweet Marysia S , Akhtar Nila J , Hayes Sharonne N , Best Patricia JM , Gulati Rajiv , Araoz Philip A 
Published: January 2018

Background: The coronary computed tomography angiography features of acute spontaneous coronary artery dissection, an important cause of acute coronary syndrome in young women, have not been assessed. Methods: The “Virtual” Multicenter Mayo Clinic Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Registry was established in 2010 and includes retrospective and prospective patient data. Retrospective assessment of acute coronary computed tomography angiography images was performed for 14 patients (16 vessels) who had images performed within two days of invasive coronary angiography diagnosis of acute spontaneous coronary artery dissection. Results: Four pertinent diagnostic coronary features of acute spontaneous coronary artery dissection were observed in order of prevalence: 1) abrupt luminal stenosis (64%); 2) intramural hematoma (50%); 3) tapered luminal stenosis (36%); and 4) dissection (14%). Additional findings include epicardial fat stranding (42%), coronary tortuosity (29%), and coronary bridge (14%). Fifty percent of patients had myocardial hypoperfusion in the myocardial distribution of the dissected coronary artery. Conclusions: We define key coronary computed tomography angiography features of acute spontaneous coronary artery dissection, the most common of which are abrupt luminal stenosis and intramural hematoma. Importantly, intramural hematoma appears similar to noncalcified atherosclerotic plaque, emphasizing the importance of invasive coronary angiography for acute diagnosis of spontaneous coronary artery dissection until the sensitivity and specificity of coronary computed tomography angiography is better understood.
Effects of chronic beta-blocker treatment on admission haemodynamics in STEMI patients treated with primary angioplasty
Authors: Roolvink Vincent , Hemradj Veemal V , Ottervanger Jan Paul , van ’t Hof Arnoud WJ , Dambrink Jan-Henk E , Gosselink AT Marcel , Kedhi Elvin , Suryapranata Harry ,   for the Zwolle Myocardial Infarction Study Group
Published: January 2018

Background:
The association between chronic beta-blocker treatment and haemodynamics at admission in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention is not well studied. We investigated the impact of chronic beta-blocker treatment on the risk of cardiogenic shock and pre-shock at admission in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and results:
A total of 4907 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention were included in the study. A total of 1148 patients (23.3%) were on chronic beta-blocker treatment. Cardiogenic shock was observed in 264 patients (5.3%). Pre-shock was defined as a shock index (the ratio of heart rate and systolic blood pressure) of 0.7 or greater, and was observed in 1022 patients (20.8%). The risk of cardiogenic shock in patients with chronic beta-blocker treatment was not increased (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–1.46, P=0.90). Chronic beta-blocker treatment was also not associated with an increased risk of pre-shock (adjusted HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.68–1.07, P=0.19). Also after propensity score matched analysis, there was no increased risk of cardiogenic shock or pre-shock in patients with chronic beta-blocker treatment (respectively HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.61–1.51, P=0.88 and HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.65–1.06, P=0.12).

Conclusion:
In ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, chronic beta-blocker treatment is not associated with an increased risk of cardiogenic shock or pre-shock.
The effects of a 12-week worksite physical activity intervention on anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk among university employees
Authors: Corbett Duane B. , Fennell Curtis , Peroutky Kylene , Kingsley J. Derek , Glickman Ellen L. 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Background
To determine the effectiveness of a low-cost 12-week worksite physical activity intervention targeting a goal of 10,000 steps per day on reducing anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among the employees of a major university.

Methods
Fifty university employees (n = 43 female, n = 7 male; mean age = 48 ± 10 years) participated in the 12-week physical activity intervention (60 min, 3 day/week). Each session included both aerobic (cardiorespiratory endurance) and muscle-strengthening (resistance) physical activity using existing university facilities and equipment. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of CVD risk assessed included those for obesity (body mass index), hypertension (systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP), dyslipidemia (high-density lipoprotein, HDL; low-density lipoprotein, LDL; total serum cholesterol), and prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose, IFG). Steps per day were assessed using a wrist-worn activity monitor. Participants were given the goal of 10,000 steps per day and categorized as either compliers (≥ 10,000 steps per day on average) or non-compliers (< 10,000 steps per day on average) based on their ability to achieve this goal.

Results
Overall, 34% of participants at baseline were already at an elevated risk of CVD due to age. On average, 28% of participants adhered to the goal of 10,000 steps per day. After 12-weeks, participants in both groups (compliers and non-compliers) had lower BMI scores (p < 0.001), lower HDL scores (p < 0.034), and higher IFG scores (p < 0.001). The non-compliers had a greater reduction of BMI scores than the compliers (p = 0.003). Participants at risk for CVD had greater reductions than those not at risk for several risk factors, including SBP (p = 0.020), DBP (p = 0.028), IFG (p = 0.002), LDL (p = 0.006), and total serum cholesterol (p = 0.009).

Conclusion
While the physical activity intervention showed mixed results overall with both favorable changes in anthropometric indices yet unfavorable changes in plasma biomarkers, it was particularly beneficial in regards to both blood pressure indices and plasma biomarkers among those already at risk of CVD.
Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03385447; retrospectively registered
Relations between open innovation and product quality: an empirical study of Japanese electronics firms
Authors: Ishikawa Takeshi , Suzuki Hideo 
Published: January 2018

AbstractIn late years, the concept of open innovation receives attention from industry and academic. This concept means that firms utilize resources outside for their R&D beyond their boundaries. Behind this background is the fact that firms have more opportunities to utilize resources outside. Previous studies indicate that by utilizing resources outside, firms could make R&D process more efficient or create new products. On the other side of the coin, we have to solve some aspects in open innovation context. First, product quality on the basis of activities of open innovation has to be defined. The definition of product quality is still unclear; thus, it is necessary to identify product quality in open innovation context. In addition, comparison between open innovation and in-company cooperation is not done so much. In the examination of effectiveness of open innovation, we should compare utilization of resources outside with that of in-company ideas. In this paper, we quantitatively analyze relations among product quality, utilization of resources outside, and utilization of internal resources on the basis of Covariance Structure Analysis. This analysis is based on a questionnaire survey at Japanese electronics firms in July 2015.
Colon epithelial cells luminal environment and physiopathological consequences: impact of nutrition and exercise
Authors: Blachier François , de Sá Resende Ayane , da Silva Fogaça Leite Geovana , Vasques da Costa Aline , Lancha Junior Antonio Herbert 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThe colonic epithelial cells represent a border between the colon luminal content, containing notably bacteria and a complex mixture of compounds, and the “milieu interieur” as defined by the French physiologist Claude Bernard. The physical-chemical composition of the luminal content, including luminal pH and bacterial metabolite, that obviously is not constant, is modified for instance according to the diet. Data obtained recently indicate that physical exercise may also modify the colonic luminal content. Evidence has indicated that modification of the luminal content characteristics has, indeed, consequences for the colonic epithelial cells, notably in terms of energy metabolism and DNA integrity. Although such alterations impact presumably the homeostatic process of the colonic epithelium renewal and the epithelial barrier function, their contribution to pathological processes like mucosal inflammation, pre-neoplasia, and neoplasia remains partly elusive. Open questions remain regarding the individual and collective roles of luminal changes, particularly in a long-term perspective. These questions are related particularly to the capacity of the bacterial metabolites to cross the mucus layer before entering the colonocytes, to the concentrations of metabolites in proximity of the colonic crypt stem cells, and to the capacity of colonocytes to detoxicate deleterious compounds, to take up and utilize beneficial compounds.
Estimation of proton density fat fraction of the salivary gland
Authors: Chikui Toru , Yamashita Yasuo , Kise Yoshitaka , Saito Tomonori , Okamura Kazutoshi , Yoshiura Kazunori 
Published: January 2018

Objective:
Our first objective was to prove the validity of the six-point Dixon method for estimating the proton density fat fraction (PDFF) of the salivary gland. The second objective was to estimate the salivary gland PDFF using Dixon method to evaluate the pathological conditions.

Methods:
At first, 12 volunteers underwent two types of sequences: single-voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy and the Dixon method and the PDFFs obtained by the two methods were compared. Next, a total of 67 individuals [normal, n = 46; Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), n = 11; and IgG4-related dacryoadenitis and sialadenitis (IgG4-DS), n = 4, parotitis, n = 6] were enrolled to estimate the parotid gland (PG) and submandibular gland (SMG) PDFF using the Dixon method.

Results:
This volunteer study demonstrated excellent correlation between two methods (R 2 = 0.964, slope = 1.05). In the normal group, the PG-PDFF was correlated with the weight and body mass index (BMI) (ρ = 0.38, p = 0.0085; and ρ = 0.63, p &lt; 0.0001). The SMG-PDFF was also correlated with the weight, BMI, and serum triglyceride (ρ = 0.37, p = 0.0067; ρ = 0.42, p = 0.0022; and ρ = 0.35, p = 0.024). The PG-PDFF of the SS group (48.2 ± 15.1%) was higher than that of any other groups; however, no significant difference was found due to the wide overlap. The SS group (39.0 ± 26.14%) also had significantly higher SMG-PDFF than the normal group (8.9 ± 5.4%), p &lt; 0.0001) and IgG4-DS group (3.8 ± 2.3%), p = 0.020).

Conclusion:
The Dixon method is a feasible method for estimating the PDFF and demonstrates fat accumulation in SMG in the SS group.

Advances in knowledge:
The PDFF obtained by the Dixon method is helpful for understanding the salivary gland pathological condition.