bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Coronary Artery Bypass Surgical Techniques and Postoperative Stroke
Authors: Lorusso Roberto , Moscarelli Marco , Di Franco Antonino , Grazioli Valentina , Nicolini Francesco , Gherli Tiziano , De Bonis Michele , Taramasso Maurizio , Villa Emmanuel , Troise Giovanni , Scrofani Roberto , Antona Carlo , Mariscalco Giovanni , Beghi Cesare , Miceli Antonio , Glauber Mattia , Ranucci Marco , De Vincentiis Carlo , Gaudino Mario
Published: December 2019

Background

The impact of the coronary artery bypass grafting (
CABG
) technique (on‐ versus off‐pump, single versus multiple aortic clamping) on postoperative neurological outcome remains a matter of controversy. The aim of this study was to assess the association between the incidence of postoperative stroke and the degree of aortic manipulation in one of the largest contemporary
CABG
series.

Methods and Results

A retrospective, multicenter, international study was conducted in 25 388 patients undergoing isolated
CABG
procedures with on‐pump CABG (
ONCAB
) or off‐pump CABG (
OPCAB
) technique including single or multiple aortic clamping. Postoperative stroke was defined as a postoperative neurological deficit lasting more than 24 hours and associated with evidence of a brain lesion on computed tomography. The degree of aortic manipulation was assumed to be higher for on‐pump versus off‐pump surgery and for multiple versus single or no aortic clamping. Logistic regression and propensity matching were used.
ONCAB
procedures were performed in 17 231 cases and
OPCAB
in 8157. The incidence of postoperative stroke was significantly lower in the
OPCAB
group even after propensity matching (0.4%
OPCAB
versus 1.2%
ONCAB
,
P
=0.02). In the
ONCAB
group (but not in the
OPCAB
arm) the use of single aortic clamping was associated with significantly reduced postoperative stroke rate (odds ratio, 0.05; 95%
CI
, 0.008 to 0.07 [
P
<0.001]).

Conclusions

OPCAB
and the use of single aortic clamping in the
ONCAB
arm were associated with a reduced incidence of postoperative stroke. Our data confirm a strong association between aortic manipulation and neurological outcome after
CABG
surgery.
Laboratory testing of extravascular body fluids
Authors: Milevoj Kopcinovic Lara , Culej Jelena , Jokic Anja , Bozovic Marija , Kocijan Irena
Published: December 2019

Extravascular body fluids (EBF) analysis can provide useful information in the differential diagnosis of conditions that caused their accumulation. Their unique nature and particular requirements accompanying EBF analysis need to be recognized in order to minimize possible negative implications on patient safety. This recommendation was prepared by the members of the Working group for extravascular body fluid samples (WG EBFS). It is designed to address the total testing process and clinical significance of tests used in EBF analysis. The recommendation begins with a chapter addressing validation of methods used in EBF analysis, and continues with specific recommendations for serous fluids analysis. It is organized in sections referring to the preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical phase with specific recommendations presented in boxes. Its main goal is to assist in the attainment of national harmonization of serous fluid analysis and ultimately improve patient safety and healthcare outcomes. This recommendation is intended to all laboratory professionals performing EBF analysis and healthcare professionals involved in EBF collection and processing. Cytological and microbiological evaluations of EBF are beyond the scope of this document.
Knowledge and awareness of iodine intake - survey among Croatian women of reproductive age
Authors: Vidranski Valentina , Radman Anita , Kajić Katarina , Bronić Ana
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Appropriate iodine intake is important for the entire population, especially in fertile women due to decisive role of thyroid hormones in normal foetal brain development. The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge on iodine role among Croatian women of reproductive age.
Materials and methods: The survey was conducted among 378 women of reproductive age during May-September 2018. Data on age, education level, salt intake habits, knowledge of the iodine role and possible presence of thyroid disease were collected and results were presented as numbers or percentage of total number of participants. Comparison between groups was performed by Chi square test.
Results: Of 378 participants, 178 reported to be familiar with the iodine role in the body (P = 0.115). Significantly higher proportion of the younger woman and woman with lower degree of education weren’t familiar with the iodine role (P < 0.001). More woman were introduced to consequences of insufficient than to excessive iodine intake (273 vs 213; P < 0.001). In addition, participants mainly weren’t familiar with obligation of salt iodination (P < 0.001). Presence of thyroid disease was recorded in 75 subjects with higher prevalence in subjects 36-49 years (P < 0.001). Presence of thyroid disease was not associated with knowledge on iodine role on health.
Conclusion: Women of reproductive age are not completely aware of the consequences of excessive iodine intake. Thus, further education focusing on more sensitive groups such as woman of younger age should be considered in order to preserve their and their children’s health.
An unconscious man with profound drug-induced hypoglycaemia
Authors: Schiemsky Toon , Croes Kathleen , Vermeersch Pieter , Pauwels Steven , Desmet Koen , Penders Joris , Vundelinckx Guy
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Hypoglycaemia has been reported as an unusual complication of tramadol use and in a few cases of tramadol poisoning, but the
exact mechanism is not known.
Case description: An ambulance crew was dispatched to an unconscious 46-year old man. A glucometer point-of-care measurement revealed a
profound hypoglycaemia (1.9 mmol/L). Treatment with intravenous glucose was started and the patient was transported to the hospital. The patient
had several episodes of pulseless electrical activity requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the ambulance and upon arrival in the hospital.
Despite continuous glucose infusion the hypoglycaemia was difficult to correct during the next few hours and the patient developed hypokalaemia.
Further investigation to identify the cause of hypoglycaemia revealed that insulin and C-peptide were inappropriately raised. A toxicological investigation
revealed the presence of tramadol and its metabolites in lethal concentrations. Also acetaminophen, ibuprofen and lormetazepam were
present. Ethanol screening was negative (< 0.1 g/L) and no sulfonylurea were detected. The patient developed multiple organ failure, but eventually
recovered.
What happened: The hypoglycaemia was caused by inappropriate stimulation of insulin secretion in a patient intoxicated with tramadol. The
sudden hypokalaemia was caused by a massive intracellular shift of potassium in response to the hyperinsulinemia, triggered by the intravenous
administration of glucose.
Main lesson: To our knowledge, we are the first to document a significant rise in endogenous insulin production in a hypoglycaemic patient presenting
with tramadol intoxication. Our observation suggests that hyperinsulinemia could be the cause of the hypoglycaemia associated with tramadol
use.
A New Theory on Aṣḥāb al-kahf (“The Sleepers of the Cave”) Based on Evidence from the Dead Sea Scrolls (dss)
Authors: Iqbal Rashid
Published: December 2019

The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls (dss) in 1947 substantially transformed ideas surrounding Second Temple Judaism and early Christianity. Up to now, Islamic scholars have paid little attention to dss, primarily because of the perception that dss are an exclusively Judeo-Christian matter. However, a common research field has grown out of dss, one that compels an Islamic response that will answer certain unaddressed queries. Therefore, in this hermeneutic synopsis, nature, history and an exposition of Aṣḥāb al-kahf are expounded in the light of references from dss, Second Temple Judaism, early Christian history, the history of the Roman Empire and astounding connections found in the Qurʾān. This delineated and innovative method may be called the “Five-Pronged Juxtaposing” approach, and it is entirely different from existing perspectives.1
The Use of Khinzir Terms in Hadith Perspective: Conceptual Analysis in al-Kutub al-Sittah(Penggunaan Istilah Khinzir Dalam Perspektif Hadith: Analisis Konseptual Dalam al-Kutub al-Sittah)
Authors: Mohamad Mohd Afifuddin , Mohamad Mohammad Taqiuddin
Published: December 2019

Khinzir or pork is something often mentioned in the main sources of Islamic legislation, namely al-Quran and al-hadith. With regards to al-hadith, pork was discussed in various dimensions and contexts either using singular words (khinzir) or plural (khanazir). This study is to examine khinzir in the contexts of al-hadith found in al-Kutub al-Sittah, using content analysis methodology. It was found that hadith associated with khinzir in al-Kutub al-Sittah can be divided into five main themes. Firstly, the hadith related the story of Prophet Isa as who will kill the khinzir. Secondly, the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad saw who explained the disadvantages of khinzir. Thirdly, the hadith related to the prohibition of khinzir. The fourth hadith concerns the scribes that allow khinzir. Finally, the fifth hadith is the changes made by Allah swt to the Prophet followers in becoming monkeys and khinzir.
Checklist of the false scorpions (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones) of Colombia, with new records and a key to the identification of the families
Authors: ROMERO-ORTIZ CATALINA , GARCÍA FABIAN , VILLARREAL EDUARDO
Published: December 2019

Colombia is a mega-biodiverse country and rich in ecosystems as different as the Amazon and the Andes. Much is known of the vertebrate fauna, however there is still an information-gap for many arthropod groups including the arachnids. Here, we compile all the information available for pseudoscorpions (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones) recorded from Colombia and include several new records and distribution extensions. For each described species, we present information on taxonomic history, type localities, global and local distributions, repository of Colombian specimens, and collection numbers when available. We document 12 families, 45 genera and 65 species of pseudoscorpions for Colombia and most species belong to the families Chernetidae (27 species) and Olpiidae (8 species). We record Beierolpium venezuelense Heurtault, 1982, Geogarypus amazonicus Mahnert, 1979, Sathrochthonius venezuelanus Muchmore, 1989, and Semeiochernes armiger (Balzan, 1892) for the first time for Colombia. We further extend the known ranges of Parachernes melonopygus Beier, 1959 and Paratemnoides nidificator (Balzan, 1888). The data suggest that the Caribbean region of Colombia has the highest number of records. Total numbers are not complete and many other new pseudoscorpion species are expected.
Well-aligned BaTiO3 nanofibers via solution blow spinning and their application in lithium composite solid-state electrolyte
Authors: Zhang Zhoujie , Wang Qi , Li Zhihui , Jiang Yangchang , Zhao Bin , Han Xiaogang
Published: December 2019

In this work, an efficient and simple solution blow spinning method for preparing well-aligned nanofibers was proposed. Compared with common electrospinning, this method is more promising for scalable fabrication because of fewer process requirements. Through this method, well aligned
BaTiO3 nanofibers were fabricated, and their average diameter was about 300 nm. When introducing PEO and LiTFSI ionic conductive polymer composites into the aligned BaTiO3 nanofibers membrane, a composite solid-state polymer electrolyte was obtained. The excellent structure
for the electrolyte was also analyzed and its electrochemical performance was tested. Results showed that the lithium ionic conductivity at 30 °C increased from 5.74 × 10–6 S · cm–1 to 5.83 × 10–5 S · cm
–1 with addition of aligned BaTiO3 nanofibers, and its thermal and electrochemical stability were all significantly improved.
Size separation of graphene oxide via multi-layer filtering by silica gel column
Authors: Huang Jitao , Cui Chunna , Zhao Xiaomin , Chen Guohua
Published: December 2019

The properties and applications of graphene-based materials largely depend on the lateral size and size distribution of graphene and its derivatives sheets. In this work, a novel size separation method was developed for graphene oxide (GO) sheets using a multi-layer filtering of silica
gel column. GO sheets were separated into three groups with narrowed size distributions after filtering from the multi-scale holes that were formed due to the packing of irregular silica gel particles. This economical and continuous-operational separation method shows promising future to realize
the size separation in industrial sector. The size separation mechanism was considered that the size of GO sheets affected the flow speed, owing to the friction force between the GO sheet and silica gel particle surface. In addition, the related reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was obtained via
the separated GO. The size impact of rGO sheets on the electrochemical properties were studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostat charge/discharge (GC/D) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).
Characterization of a new esterase for enantioselective resolution of (R, S)-methyl mandelate
Authors: Xie Haiwei , Chen Yongzhi , Deng Dun
Published: December 2019

A new esterase gene (EST35) was cloned from Dactylosporangium sp. BB08 and expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3). Optimum catalytic activity of EST35 was at 30 C and it could be activated at 0 °C. EST35 remained high activity in 20% (V/V) cyclohexane,
hexane, heptane, methanol and DMSO. Interestingly the enzyme exhibits good enantioselectivity towards (R, S)-methyl mandelate leaving with an optical purity of 97% (R)-methyl mandelate and make EST35 a promising enzyme for biotechnology application.
Growing-Season Synoptic and Phenological Controls on Heat Fluxes over Forest and Cropland Sites in the Midwest U.S. Corn Belt
Authors: Hiestand Mikael P. , Carleton Andrew M.
Published: December 2019

Spatial variations in land use/land cover (LULC) in the Midwest U.S. Corn Belt—specifically, deciduous forest and croplands—have been suggested as influencing convective rainfall through mesoscale circulations generated in the atmosphere’s boundary layer. However, the contributing role of latent and sensible heat fluxes for these two LULC types, and their modulation by synoptic weather systems, have not been determined. This study compares afternoon averages of convective fluxes at two AmeriFlux towers in relation to manually determined synoptic pressure patterns covering the nine growing seasons (1 May–30 September) of 1999–2007. AmeriFlux tower U.S.-Bo1 in eastern Illinois represents agricultural land use—alternating between maize and soybean crops—and AmeriFlux tower U.S.-MMS in south-central Indiana represents deciduous forest cover. Phenologically, the latent and sensible heat fluxes vary inversely across the growing season, and the greatest flux differences between cropland and deciduous forest occur early in the season. Differences in the surface heat fluxes between crop and forest LULC types vary in magnitude according to synoptic type. Moreover, statistically significant differences in latent and sensible heat between the forest and cropland sites occur for the most frequently occurring synoptic pattern of a low pressure system to the west and high pressure to the east of the Corn Belt. The present study lays the groundwork for determining the physical mechanisms of enhanced convection in the Corn Belt, including how LULC-induced mesoscale circulations might interact with synoptic weather patterns to enhance convective rainfall.
Climate Change, Temperature, and Homicide: A Tale of Two Cities, 1895–2015
Authors: Lynch Michael J. , Stretesky Paul B. , Long Michael A.
Published: December 2019

It has been argued that the temperature increase caused by anthropogenic climate change will produce a significant increase in violent crime. Support for that prediction is often based on statistical analyses of seasonal temperature and crime data cycles across days, months, and quarters and sometimes on large geographic areas. Within-year temperature changes are very large, however, relative to the 30-yr temperature increases employed to measure climate change. In addition, because temperature trends associated with climate change vary geographically, analyses should employ small geographic units for which temperature changes are measured over yearly intervals and for long periods of time. To address these conditions, this study examined the long-term temperature–crime association for homicides in New York and London for 1895–2015. Consistent with previous studies examining seasonal weather and crime patterns, we found a positive correlation between annual homicide rates and temperature, but only at the bivariate level. This relationship became statistically insignificant in both New York and London when gross domestic product is controlled. Moreover, the bivariate relationship between temperature and homicide is statistically insignificant when correcting for nonstationarity. Thus, it does not appear that climate change has led to higher rates of homicide in New York and London over the long term. These nonfindings are important because they suggest that studies of climate change and violence might do well to consider alternative mechanisms that mediate the relationship between climate change and violence.
Human Performance Benefits of The Automation Transparency Design Principle
Authors: Skraaning Gyrd , Jamieson Greg A.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Test the automation transparency design principle using a full-scope nuclear power plant simulator.

Background

Automation transparency is a long-held human factors design principle espousing that the responsibilities, capabilities, goals, activities, and/or effects of automation should be directly observable in the human–system interface. The anticipated benefits of transparency include more effective reliance, more appropriate trust, better understanding, and greater user satisfaction. Transparency has enjoyed a recent upsurge in use in the context of human interaction with agent-oriented automation.

Method

Three full-scope nuclear power plant simulator studies were conducted with licensed operating crews. In the first two experiments, transparency was implemented for interlocks, controllers, limitations, protections, and automatic programs that operate at the local component level of the plant. In the third experiment, procedure automation assumed control of plant operations and was represented in dedicated agent displays.

Results

Results from Experiments 1 and 2 appear to validate the human performance benefits of automation transparency for automation at the component level. However, Experiment 3 failed to replicate these findings for automation that assumed control for executing procedural actions.

Conclusion

Automation transparency appears to yield expected benefits for component-level automation, but caution is warranted in generalizing the design principle to agent-oriented automation.

Application

The automation transparency design principle may offer a powerful means of compensating for the detrimental impacts of hidden automation influence at the component level of complex systems. However, system developers should exercise caution in assuming that the principle extends to agent-oriented automation.
The Multilevel Politics of Enforcement: Environmental Institutions in Argentina
Authors: Milmanda Belén Fernández , Garay Candelaria
Published: December 2019

Environmental protection presents a challenge for commodity-producing democracies. To account for the enforcement of environmental laws in decentralized systems, this article proposes a multilevel approach that highlights the importance of national laws and subnational implementation rules to the politics of enforcement. This approach contrasts with prominent scholarship that focuses on sanctions and the electoral incentives and bureaucratic resources of enforcers. The advantages of the multilevel approach are demonstrated by the enforcement of the native forest protection regime (NFPR) in the Argentine Chaco Forest, which is shaped not only by whether sanctions on illegal deforestation are applied by subnational authorities but also by the design of both the national law and subnational regulations. The article employs quantitative data and case studies based on extensive fieldwork to show how affected subnational organized interests influenced the design of the NFPR and the provincial regulations that weaken or strengthen enforcement.
Cognitive Impairment and Cardiovascular Disease: A Comparison of Risk Factors, Disability, Quality of Life, and Access to Health Care
Authors: Adams Mary L. , Grandpre Joseph , Katz David L. , Shenson Douglas
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

Cognitive difficulties or impairment may be an early step in the development of dementia. Several modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) may also increase the risk of dementia. The objective of our study was to compare adults with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) cognitive disability measure, with adults who reported CVD.

Methods:

We examined data on 3 key outcomes among 302 008 adult respondents aged ≥45 in the 2017 BRFSS: respondents with SCI only, respondents with CVD only, and respondents with both conditions. We compared measures of disability, quality of life, access to health care, and a composite measure of the following 7 risk factors: current smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. We also estimated population-attributable risk (PAR).

Results:

Among respondents, 7.9% reported SCI only, 11.1% reported CVD only, and 3.2% reported both conditions, with differences by age and sex. Adults with SCI only were more likely than adults with CVD only to report other disability, worse access to health care, and poorer quality of life, even though adults with CVD were older. Compared with adults with neither condition, adults with any of the 3 outcomes were more likely to report having each of the 7 risk factors; we found a linear association with an increasing number of risk factors. Five or 6 risk factors contributed to PARs for each of the 3 key outcomes. PARs for SCI only were highest for ever smoking (17.2%) and sedentary lifestyle (12.8%), whereas for CVD only, PARs were highest for hypertension (35.5%) and high cholesterol (22.9%).

Conclusion:

Despite differences between adults with SCI and adults with CVD in several demographic and health-related measures, the overall similarity in PARs for SCI and CVD suggests potential benefits from using effective CVD interventions to address SCI.
The Brazilian Union Movement in the Twenty-first Century: The PT Governments, the Coup, and the Counterreforms
Authors: Galvão Andréia , Marcelino Paula
Published: December 2019

Unionism, an allied, albeit subordinate, force in the neodevelopmentalist political front of the governments of Lula da Silva and Dilma Rousseff, was relatively absent from the mobilizations against or in favor of Dilma’s impeachment compared with other social movements and sought to resist and, in a way, realign itself to counter the counterreforms of Michel Temer’s government. Although union and popular demonstrations have multiplied, the absence of a unified strategy in the face of the coup and the reforms have weakened the possibilities of union resistance, and losses for workers have accumulated.

O sindicalismo foi uma força aliada, ainda que subordinada, na frente política neodesenvolvimentista dos governos de Lula da Silva e Dilma Rousseff, foi uma força política relativamente ausente nas mobilizações contra ou a favor do impeachment de Dilma, se comparado a outros movimentos sociais e tem procurado resistir e, de certo modo, se realinhar, para enfrentar as contrarreformas do governo de Michel Temer. No entanto, apesar de as manifestações sindicais e populares terem se multiplicado, a ausência de uma estratégia unificada diante do golpe e das reformas fragilizou as possibilidades de resistência sindical e as perdas para os trabalhadores têm se acumulado.
Patellofemoral Pain in Adolescents: Understanding Patellofemoral Morphology and Its Relationship to Maltracking
Authors: Fick Cameron N. , Grant Camila , Sheehan Frances T.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Developing bone is highly adaptable and, as such, is susceptible to pathological shape deformation. Thus, it is imperative to quantify if changes in patellofemoral morphology are associated with adolescent-onset patellofemoral pain, as a pathway to improve our understanding of this pain’s etiology.

Purpose:

To quantify and compare patellofemoral morphology in adolescent patients with patellofemoral pain with matched healthy adolescent controls and determine if a relationship exists between patellofemoral shape and kinematics (measured during active flexion-extension).

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Using 3-dimensional static magnetic resonance images acquired during a previous study, we measured patellar, trochlear, and lateral patellar width; trochlear and patellar depth; Wiberg index; patellar-height ratio; lateral trochlear inclination; cartilage length; and lateral femoral shaft length. Student t test was used to compare shape parameters between adolescents with patellofemoral pain and controls. Pearson correlations and stepwise linear regression models were used to explore the relationship among morphology, kinematics (medial-lateral shift/tilt), and pain.

Results:

Relative to controls, adolescents with patellofemoral pain had larger sulci (mean ± SD, 6.6 ± 0.7 vs 6.0 ± 1.1 mm; 95% CI, 0.6 mm; P = .043; d = 0.66), lateral patellar width (23.1 ± 2.4 vs 21.4 ± 2.6 mm; 95% CI, 1.6 mm; P = .033; d = 0.70), and patella-trochlear width ratio (1.2 ± 0.1 vs 1.1 ± 0.1; 95% CI, 0.1; P < .001; d = 1.26). Shape correlated with kinematics in both cohorts and in the entire population. In the patellofemoral pain group, lateral shaft length ( r = 0.518; P = .019), Wiberg index ( r = 0.477; P = .033), and patellar-height ratio ( r = −0.582; P = .007) were correlated with medial shift. A moderate correlation existed between patellar-height ratio and lateral patellar tilt ( r = 0.527; P = .017). Half of the variation in patellar shift in the patellofemoral pain cohort was explained by the patellar-height ratio and Wiberg index ( R2= 0.487; P = .003). Linear correlations with pain were not found.

Conclusion:

This study provides direct evidence that patellofemoral morphology is altered and influences maltracking in adolescents with patellofemoral pain, highlighting the multifactorial etiology of this pain. Neither morphology nor kinematics (measured during active flexion-extension) correlated with pain. Both increases and decreases in these parameters likely lead to pain, negating a direct linear correlation.
Barriers and Facilitators to Exercise Participation Among Frail Older African American Assisted Living Residents
Authors: Bender Alexis A. , Halpin Sean N. , Kemp Candace L. , Perkins Molly M.
Published: December 2019

Despite the well-known health benefits of physical activity, older adults are more sedentary than any other age group. This issue is particularly true for assisted living (AL) residents, which also represents an important and often overlooked aspect of palliative care. Here, we analyze ethnographic and interview data from a longitudinal study aimed at identifying best practices for palliative care in one African American AL community. The aim was to identify the factors that facilitate and constrain resident participation in instructor-led group exercise. Thematic analysis identified several main themes including the quality and location of the exercise program, AL staffing limitations, residents’ health and function, values about exercise, and residents’ interest in recreation and social engagement. We identified facilitators and barriers that shaped residents’ opportunity, desire, and commitment related to attending group exercise. Findings have implications for interventions aimed at increasing resident participation in group exercise, leading to multiple health benefits.
On fortification: Military architecture, geometric power, and defensive design
Authors: Denman Derek S
Published: December 2019

Fortification calls to mind images of high walls establishing clear lines between inside and outside and immobilizing enemies. However, even the most seemingly inert fortifications rely on subtle forms of mobility and more elaborate spatial relations. This article examines fortification as a technique of power in which warfare, the design of the built environment, and the organization of space are intertwined. Where research on fortification tends to emphasize the symbolic, sovereign aspirations of wall-building, the approach advanced here focuses on the spatial technologies and infrastructural projects of military architecture and engineering that remake space through martial means. The article follows the trajectory within military architecture by which linear fortifications became defense in depth and asks how transformations of ‘depth’ in contemporary warfare have come to integrate more complex, non-linear notions of space and time. By tracing the ways in which the curtain wall of Vauban’s bastion fortress transformed into the radar curtain, I argue that fortification constitutes a ‘becoming war’ in which ‘defensive’ war intensifies organized violence. As such, the concept of fortification proves indispensable for understanding the reinforced boundaries and delineated pathways cutting across the global space of contemporary warfare.
The importance of systematic point-of-care ultrasound for chest pain with ST-segment elevation: A case report of takotsubo cardiomyopathy precipitated by spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Kim Yoon-Seop , Cha Yong Sung
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Patients with chest pain and concomitant ST-segment elevation on an electrocardiogram should be identified as having suspected ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. However, various etiologies cause ST-segment elevation other than ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, such as takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

Case presentation:

Here we report the case of a 77-year-old man who requested transport by helicopter emergency medical service for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction but was consequently diagnosed with takotsubo cardiomyopathy due to spontaneous pneumothorax. En route, findings of electrocardiogram as well as focused cardiac point-of-care ultrasound could not distinguish takotsubo cardiomyopathy from ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, but a subsequent point-of-care ultrasound could reveal occult pneumothorax, which ultimately revealed to be the culprit stress factor of takotsubo cardiomyopathy causing ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction–alike presentation. After treatment with a closed thoracostomy, he recovered from the takotsubo cardiomyopathy and pneumothorax and was discharged without any complications.

Discussion and conclusion:

We should consider takotsubo cardiomyopathy a disease with ST-segment elevation and spontaneous pneumothorax as one of its precipitating stressors. To clarify the diagnosis, point-of-care ultrasound using a systematic rather than region-of-interest approach may be a useful method in the emergency department.
The Nurse’s Role in Prognosis-Related Communication in Pediatric Oncology Nursing Practice
Authors: Newman Amy R. , Linder Lauri , Haglund Kristin
Published: December 2019

The experiences of pediatric oncology nurses with prognosis-related communication (PRC) remain largely unknown. The purpose of this article is to report results of focus groups wherein 15 pediatric oncology nurses from three Midwestern pediatric cancer programs provided descriptions of PRC and how they experience PRC within their daily practice. Data from focus groups were analyzed via an interpretive descriptive approach, which resulted in three themes: (1) nurses’ operational definition of PRC, (2) nurses’ roles in PRC, and (3) nurses’ preparation for engagement in PRC. From discussions within the focus groups, nurses recognized that PRC occurs across a continuum. Nurses distinguished that the definition of PRC expands beyond simply reporting life expectancy to describing the consequences of cancer- and treatment-related toxicities and effects. When nurses are not actively invited by their physician partners to participate in PRC, nurses will often develop workarounds to ensure that they understand what was said to patients and families. This allows them to function more effectively as supporters, advocates, and informants. Nurses described little preparation to participate in such challenging conversations. Pediatric oncology nurses need to acknowledge and embrace that they are an integral part of PRC. Interprofessional communication training is necessary to enhance the comfort and confidence of nurses engaging in PRC.
High Burden of Associated Injuries Occurring With Major Fractures of the Talus
Authors: Ibrahim Ishaq O. , Ye Michael Y. , Jacobs Jennifer , Smith Jeremy T. , Kwon John Y. , Miller Christopher P.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Talus fractures are severe injuries typically occurring after high-energy trauma. As a result, associated injuries to different anatomic sites and organ systems occur with high frequency. The objective of this study was to determine what injuries occur with high incidence in patients presenting with major fractures of the talus and to identify clinical injury patterns that may warrant special attention in these patients.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of patients presenting to 3 level 1 trauma centers with fractures of the talar neck, body, or head over a 14-year period. Patient charts were reviewed for associated orthopedic and nonorthopedic injuries identified during the initial patient encounter and hospitalization.

Results:

In total, 262 fractures in 258 unique patients met criteria for inclusion. Overall, 33.3% of talus fractures occurred in isolation. One or more associated injuries were identified in the remainder of cases (66.7%). The incidence of associated injuries was similar across fracture patterns. Mean total number of injuries per patient was 2.2 (range, 0-15). The ipsilateral foot was the most frequent site of associated orthopedic injury. Noncontiguous injuries occurred in 36% of cases. Lumbar spine injury occurred in 10.5% of cases. Lower extremity vascular injury was uncommon but bore significant association with open talus fractures.

Conclusion:

Talus fractures are commonly associated with injuries to different anatomic sites and organ systems. A similar rate of lumbar spine trauma may occur with major talus fractures as has been historically associated with calcaneal fractures. Thorough evaluation and a high index of suspicion are necessary when evaluating patients with major fractures of the talus to avoid missing concomitant injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Moving axial load on dynamic response of single-walled carbon nanotubes using classical, Rayleigh and Bishop rod models based on Eringen’s theory
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Amirhosein , Khosravi Farshad , Ghadiri Majid
Published: December 2019

The main objective of the present work is devoted to the study of both free and time-dependent forced axial vibration simultaneously in single-walled carbon nanotubes subjected to a moving load. The governing equation is derived via Hamilton’s principle. Classical theory, along with the Rayleigh and Bishop theories, is used to analyze the nonlocal vibrational behaviors of single-walled carbon nanotubes. A Galerkin method is established to solve the derived equations. The boundary conditions are assumed to be clamped-clamped and clamped-free. Firstly, the variation of nondimensional natural frequencies is calculated based on the classical theory, and the effect of the nonlocal parameter, the mode number and the length is illustrated and schematically compared for clamped-clamped and clamped-free boundary conditions. Besides, the obtained nondimensional responses are compared with the results of another study to validate the accuracy of the used method. Ultimately, the dynamic axial displacement due to the moving load in the time domain has been studied for the first time. Furthermore, the effects of the thickness, length, velocity of the moving load, excitation frequency, and the nonlocal parameter based on the classical, Rayleigh, and Bishop theories are investigated in this paper. Also, the influence of the nonlocal parameter on the variations of maximum axial displacement with respect to the velocity parameter for the aforementioned boundary conditions and theories is evaluated relative to each other.
Pollution Stigma and Manufacturing Firms’ Disengagement Effort: Interactive Effects of Pressures From External Stakeholders
Authors: Xu Jia , Wei Jiuchang , Chen Haipeng (Allan)
Published: December 2019

Firms’ stigmatization due to deviation from social norms has received extensive attention in recent years. The increasing significance of the social norm requiring firms to protect the natural environment contributes to the emergence of pollution stigma over the heavily polluting firms. We apply the stigma theory to the National Specially Monitored firms of China and expand past research by developing a framework to understand the interactive effects of external stakeholder’s pressure on the tendency for these firms to disengage from the pollution stigma. We find that (a) there is diminishing returns to scale in the joint effect between hard and soft regulative pressure and in that between regulative and normative pressure, (b) the positive effect of mimetic pressure from environmental protection exemplary firms is exacerbated when dilution of stigma responsibility is low, and (c) dilution of stigma responsibility weakens the positive effect of stigma intensity on firms’ disengagement tendencies.
Editorial journalism and political interests: Comparing the coverage of Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment in Brazilian newspapers
Authors: Marques Francisco Paulo Jamil , Mont’Alverne Camila , Mitozo Isabele
Published: December 2019

The article investigates how Folha de S. Paulo and O Estado de S. Paulo – two of the leading Brazilian quality newspapers – expressed their editorial positions on the impeachment of the ex-president Dilma Rousseff. The comparative study encompasses quantitative and qualitative methods to examine 506 editorial texts published between 2015 and 2016. By using Content Analysis, the research found out that Folha de S. Paulo and O Estado de S. Paulo take different positions along the process: each newspaper presents particular arguments to justify the impeachment’s legitimacy; regarding the solution for the political situation, O Estado de S. Paulo fully supports the impeachment, while Folha de S. Paulo asks for the then president and her vice-president to resign. In the end, both organizations agree in their editorials that Rousseff has to be removed from office. At the same time, Folha de S. Paulo and O Estado de S. Paulo try to avoid being seen as actors conspiring against democracy, which makes them dispute whether Rousseff’s impeachment was or not a coup. This research provides the opportunity to investigate to what extent journalism loosens its place as a watchdog to behave as a demanding actor.
World-class as a provincial construct: Historicizing planning in Colombo and Delhi
Authors: Palat Narayanan Nipesh
Published: December 2019

South Asia’s bourgeoning agglomerations are argued to derive their imageries from the abstracted northern notions of the urban, partially captured by the umbrella phrase – world-class. This article unpacks the notion of world-class using planning exercises in Colombo and Delhi. I argue that world-class cannot be seen in isolation to read the violence of urbanization, but when planning is historicized, visions like world-class present themselves as a subsequent logical step. Therefore, for any radical opposition to exclusionary planning, we need to look at the possibility of an epistemological rupture in the planning discourse rather than to critique the notion of world-class.
Consensus of the Hellenic Headache Society on the diagnosis and treatment of migraine
Authors:   Hellenic Headache Society, Kouremenos Evangelos , Arvaniti Chrysa , Constantinidis Theodoros S. , Giannouli Ermioni , Fakas Nikolaos , Kalamatas Themistoklis , Kararizou Evangelia , Naoumis Dimitrios , Mitsikostas Dimos D.
Published: December 2019

More than 0.6 million people suffer from disabling migraines in Greece causing a dramatic work loss, but only a small proportion of migraineurs attend headache centres, most of them being treated by non-experts. On behalf of the Hellenic Headache Society, we report here a consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of adult migraine that is based on the recent guidelines of the European Headache Federation, on the principles of Good Clinical Practice and on the Greek regulatory affairs. The purposes are three-fold: (1) to increase awareness for migraine in Greece; (2) to support Greek practitioners who are treating migraineurs; and (3) to help Greek migraineurs to get the most appropriate treatment. For mild migraine, symptomatic treatment with high dose simple analgesics is suggested, while for moderate to severe migraines triptans or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or both, should be administered following an individually tailored therapeutic strategy. A rescue acute treatment option should always be advised. For episodic migraine prevention, metoprolol (50–200 mg/d), propranolol (40–240 mg/d), flunarizine (5–10 mg/d), valproate (500–1800 mg/d), topiramate (25–100 mg/d) and candesartan (16–32 mg/d) are the drugs of first choice. For chronic migraine prevention topiramate (100-200 mg/d), valproate (500–1800 mg/d), flunarizine (5–10 mg/d) and venlafaxine (150 mg/d) may be used, but the evidence is very limited. Botulinum toxin type A and monoclonal antibodies targeting the CGRP pathway (anti-CGRP mAbs) are recommended for patients suffering from chronic migraine (with or without medication overuse) who failed or did not tolerate two previous treatments. Anti-CGRP mAbs are also suggested for patients suffering from high frequency episodic migraine (≥8 migraine days per month and less than 14) who failed or did not tolerate two previous treatments.
Genomes and secretomes of Ascomycota fungi reveal diverse functions in plant biomass decomposition and pathogenesis
Authors: Challacombe Jean F. , Hesse Cedar N. , Bramer Lisa M. , McCue Lee Ann , Lipton Mary , Purvine Samuel , Nicora Carrie , Gallegos-Graves La Verne , Porras-Alfaro Andrea , Kuske Cheryl R.
Published: December 2019

Background

The dominant fungi in arid grasslands and shrublands are members of the Ascomycota phylum. Ascomycota fungi are important drivers in carbon and nitrogen cycling in arid ecosystems. These fungi play roles in soil stability, plant biomass decomposition, and endophytic interactions with plants. They may also form symbiotic associations with biocrust components or be latent saprotrophs or pathogens that live on plant tissues. However, their functional potential in arid soils, where organic matter, nutrients and water are very low or only periodically available, is poorly characterized.

Results

Five Ascomycota fungi were isolated from different soil crust microhabitats and rhizosphere soils around the native bunchgrassPleuraphis jamesiiin an arid grassland near Moab, UT, USA. Putative genera wereConiochaeta, isolated from lichen biocrust,Embellisiafrom cyanobacteria biocrust, Chaetomiumfrom below lichen biocrust,Phomafrom a moss microhabitat, andAspergillusfrom the soil. The fungi were grown in replicate cultures on different carbon sources (chitin, native bunchgrass or pine wood) relevant to plant biomass and soil carbon sources. Secretomes produced by the fungi on each substrate were characterized. Results demonstrate that these fungi likely interact with primary producers (biocrust or plants) by secreting a wide range of proteins that facilitate symbiotic associations. Each of the fungal isolates secreted enzymes that degrade plant biomass, small secreted effector proteins, and proteins involved in either beneficial plant interactions or virulence.AspergillusandPhomaexpressed more plant biomass degrading enzymes when grown in grass- and pine-containing cultures than in chitin.ConiochaetaandEmbellisiaexpressed similar numbers of these enzymes under all conditions, whileChaetomiumsecreted more of these enzymes in grass-containing cultures.

Conclusions

This study of Ascomycota genomes and secretomes provides important insights about the lifestyles and the roles that Ascomycota fungi likely play in arid grassland, ecosystems. However, the exact nature of those interactions, whether any or all of the isolates are true endophytes, latent saprotrophs or opportunistic phytopathogens, will be the topic of future studies.
Treatment of post-cholecystectomy biliary strictures with fully-covered self-expanding metal stents – results after 5 years of follow-up
Authors:   for the Benign Biliary Stenoses Working Group, Tringali Andrea , Reddy D. Nageshwar , Ponchon Thierry , Neuhaus Horst , Lladó Ferrán González-Huix , Navarrete Claudio , Bruno Marco J. , Kortan Paul P. , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Peetermans Joyce , Rousseau Matthew , Carr-Locke David , Devière Jacques , Costamagna Guido
Published: December 2019

Background

Endoscopic treatment of post-cholecystectomy biliary strictures (PCBS) with multiple plastic biliary stents placed sequentially is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery but requires multiple interventions. Temporary placement of a single fully-covered self-expanding metal stent (FCSEMS) may offer safe and effective treatment with fewer re-interventions. Long-term effectiveness of treatment with FCSEMS to obtain PCBS resolution has not yet been studied.

Methods

In this prospective multi-national study in patients with symptomatic benign biliary strictures (N = 187) due to various etiologies received a FCSEMS with scheduled removal at 6–12 months and were followed for 5 years. We report here long-term outcomes of the subgroup of patients with PCBS (N = 18). Kaplan Meier analyses assessed long-term freedom from re-stenting. Adverse events were documented.

Results

Endoscopic removal of the FCSEMS was achieved in 83.3% (15/18) of patients after median indwell of 10.9 (range 0.9–13.8) months. In the remaining 3 patients (16.7%), the FCSEMS spontaneously migrated and passed without complications. At the end of FCSEMS indwell, 72% (13/18) of patients had stricture resolution. At 5 years after FCSEMS removal, 84.6% (95% CI 65.0–100.0%) of patients who had stricture resolution at FCSEMS removal remained stent-free. In addition, at 75 months after FCSEMS placement, the probability of remaining stent-free was 61.1% (95% CI 38.6–83.6%) for all patients. Stent or removal related serious adverse events occurred in 38.9% (7/18) all resolved without sequalae.

Conclusions

In patients with symptomatic PCBS, temporary placement of a single FCSEMS intended for 10–12 months indwell is associated with long-term stricture resolution up to 5 years. Temporary placement of a single FCSEMS may be considered for patients with PCBS not involving the main hepatic confluence.

Trial registration numbers

NCT01014390; CTRI/2012/12/003166; Registered 17 November 2009.