bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Partial Response after Continuous Ramucirumab Treatment beyond Radiological Progression
Authors: Wada Yoshiyuki , Takami Yuko , Ryu Tomoki , Ureshino Hiroki , Imamura Hajime , Sasaki Shin , Saitsu Hideki
Published: April 2020

A 73-year-old male was initially treated with sorafenib for advanced stage HCC. However, the disease progressed 2 months after starting sorafenib. Progressive disease (PD) was confirmed by radiological examination, which revealed mediastinal and abdominal lymph node metastasis, pulmonary metastasis, and intrahepatic recurrence. The patient was enrolled in the REACH-2 (NCT02435433) trial and randomized to receive ramucirumab (8 mg/kg div. every 2 weeks). The patient had a Child–Pugh score of 6A and his AFP level was found to be 1,256.8 ng/mL at initiation. Radiological examination revealed PD, 5 months after starting ramucirumab. Ramucirumab treatment was continued after the confirmation of radiological PD, not but clinical progression, as allowed by the study protocol. His AFP level increased after continuous ramucirumab treatment, however, it suddenly decreased from 7,653 ng/mL to within normal limits 10 months after initiation of ramucirumab treatment. Radiological evaluation revealed a significant decrease in the size of the tumors, which constituted a partial response (PR). We reported a rare case of advanced HCC with PR to a continuous ramucirumab treatment after radiological PD.
Effectiveness of Energy Conservation Techniques in Patients with COPD
Authors: Wingårdh Ann Sylvia Louise , Göransson Carina , Larsson Sven , Slinde Frode , Vanfleteren Lowie E.G.W.
Published: April 2020

Background: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) might suffer from severe dyspnea, which importantly impacts on the performance of activities of daily living (ADL). Patient training of energy conservation techniques (ECTs) might be useful to improve the tolerance and execution of these ADL, but objective studies evaluating the effect of teaching ECTs on the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) in patients with COPD are sparse. Objectives: The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that practicing ECTs after a 2-week ECT teaching period would reduce the energy expenditure (MET) in performing an activity in patients with severe COPD. Methods: Energy expenditure was assessed with a gas exchange system (OxyconTM Mobile) during one out of five standardized ADL before and after a 2-week intervention period in which ECTs were taught. These ECTs comprised a good breathing technique, an ergonomic way of performing the activity, and the use of assistive devices. Results: Thirty-two patients with COPD (mean FEV1: 39 ± 14%; female: n = 18; age: 68 ± 7 years) were included. A significantly lower MET (2.3 ± 0.6 to 2.1 ± 0.5; p < 0.05) and less desaturation (89.7 ± 5.2 vs. 91.1 ± 5.5% HbO2; p < 0.05) were seen while performing the same activity after the intervention. However, there was no significant difference in the time spent on the task performed (6.0 ± 3.9 vs. 6.7 ± 4.0 min; p > 0.05). Conclusions: A 2-week educative program on ECTs successfully reduces the energy spent for performing ADL relevant to the patient without any significant increase in the time spent on the activity.
Dificultades y desafíos de la Publicidad
Authors: Taricco Jose Luis
Published: April 2020

El presente artículo analiza, en  diversos planos, factores  que están cambiando, de modo radical, los procesos de comunicación social. Particularmente de como ellos impactan en la publicidad, tanto comercial, política o de bien público. Se analizan planos en función de la multiplicidad de procesos actuales de comunicación; desde los clásicos medios a las intermediaciones vía internet y sus diversas  variantes. Las características del cambio tecnológico; desde las 4G hacia las tecnologías 5G. Las nuevas intervenciones metodológicas y técnicas para analizar datos; personales, grupales y sociales, tanto de ciudadanos como de consumidores, de modo cuantitativo y cualitativo. A través de procesos informáticos (algoritmos) y de recopilación  de datos de fuentes múltiples y de grandes conglomerados, provistas por el sistema de internet (Big Data) con la impronta de procesos de análisis e interpretación de los datos desde la “inteligencia artificial”. Y finalmente analiza, en particular, las características de los Jóvenes que componen las generaciones actuales que adaptados a las nuevas tecnologías (TIC) y en función de nuevas pautas socio-culturales y de consumo modifican, sustancialmente, la condición  de consumidor de productos y servicios en general y de medios de comunicación y mediaciones sociales en particular.

Se reflexiona sobre las dificultades y desafíos que enfrentan los sistemas de comunicación publicitaria,  para la Academia (universidades e investigadores), en tanto debe reformular y cuestionar los paradigmas teóricos hasta aquí utilizados para analizar el fenómeno publicitario a la luz de los cambios imperantes y para el espacio profesional en tanto debe reformular sus propias prácticas.
The influence of the post-processing method on knoop hardness of photosensitive resins for 3D SLA printer used in Dentistry
Authors: Vasques Mayra Torres , Mulder Julia Nascimento , Machado Debora Santos , Lagana Dalva Cruz
Published: April 2020

Objectives: The aim of this study is to compare the mechanical characteristics of resins for 3D printers with the acrylic resins that have been used in Dentistry, according to the post-processing method. Materials and Methods: Using an SLA 3D printer (Form 2 – Formlabs, Massachusetts, USA), samples (discs) were produced with the printer’s resins, Dental SG®, Dental LT®, Clear®, and Grey®. Samples made of thermopolimerized and auto polymerized acrylic resins were produced as well (Gold Standart parameters). The Knoop Hardness (KH) tests were performed using microdurometer HMV-2 (Shimadzu, Kyoto, Japan). Results: The results showed the Dental SG resin presented the highest KH, compared with thermopolimerized acrylic resin, the Clear and Dental LT resins KH were compared with auto polymerized acrylic resin, and the non-post cured Grey resin (not for intraoral use), as well as the Dental LT resin, showed the lowest KH. Conclusions: Considering the hardness, the printer’s resins are comparable with the acrylic resins established, when the post-processing method is thoroughly followed. The absence of material’s post-processing reduce significantly the material’s hardness. Clinical relevance: Regarding the use of 3D printing in Dentistry, the development of materials adequate for the equipment, biocompatible for intraoral uses, and compatible mechanical proprieties are essential.
Hypothetical Lifestyle Strategies in Middle-Aged Women and the Long-Term Risk of Stroke
Authors: Jain Priyanka , Suemoto Claudia K. , Rexrode Kathryn , Manson JoAnn E. , Robins James M. , Hernán Miguel A. , Danaei Goodarz
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose—

Long-term effect of lifestyle changes on stroke incidence has not been estimated in randomized trials. We used observational data to estimate the incidence of stroke under hypothetical lifestyle strategies in the NHS (Nurses’ Health Study).

Methods—

We considered 3 nondietary strategies (smoking cessation, exercising ≥30 min/d, gradual body mass index reduction if overweight/obese) and several dietary strategies (eating ≥3 servings/wk of fish, ≤3 servings/wk of unprocessed red meat, no processed red meat, ≥1 servings/d of nuts, etc). We used the parametric g-formula to estimate the 26-year risk of stroke under these strategies.

Results—

In 59 727 women, mean age 52 years at baseline in 1986, the estimated 26-year risks under no lifestyle interventions were 4.7% for total stroke, 2.4% for ischemic stroke, and 0.7% for hemorrhagic stroke. Under the combined nondietary interventions, the estimated 26-year risk of total stroke was 3.5% (95% CI, 2.6%–4.3%) and ischemic stroke was 1.6% (95% CI, 1.1%–2.1%). Smaller reductions in total stroke risk were estimated under isolated dietary strategies of increased intake of fish and nuts and reduced intake of unprocessed red meat. Ischemic stroke risk was lower under reduced intake of unprocessed and processed red meat, and hemorrhagic stroke risk was lower under a strategy of increased fish consumption.

Conclusions—

In this population of middle-aged women, sustained, lifestyle modifications were estimated to reduce the 26-year risk of total stroke by 25% and ischemic stroke by 36%. Sustained dietary modifications were estimated to reduce the 26-year risk of total stroke by 23%.
Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients With Ischemic Stroke With Prestroke Disability
Authors: Salwi Sanjana , Cutting Shawna , Salgado Alan D. , Espaillat Kiersten , Fusco Matthew R. , Froehler Michael T. , Chitale Rohan V. , Kirshner Howard , Schrag Matthew , Jasne Adam , Burton Tina , MacGrory Brian , Saad Ali , Jayaraman Mahesh V. , Madsen Tracy E. , Dakay Katarina , McTaggart Ryan , Yaghi Shadi , Khatri Pooja , Mistry Akshitkumar M. , Mistry Eva A.
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to compare functional and procedural outcomes of patients with acute ischemic stroke with none-to-minimal (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score, 0–1) and moderate (mRS score, 2–3) prestroke disability treated with mechanical thrombectomy.

Methods—

Consecutive adult patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for an anterior circulation stroke were prospectively identified at 2 comprehensive stroke centers from 2012 to 2018. Procedural and 90-day functional outcomes were compared among patients with prestroke mRS scores 0 to 1 and 2 to 3 using χ
2
, logistic, and linear regression tests. Primary outcome and significant differences in secondary outcomes were adjusted for prespecified covariates.

Results—

Of 919 patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy, 761 were included and 259 (34%) patients had moderate prestroke disability. Ninety-day mRS score 0 to 1 or no worsening of prestroke mRS was observed in 36.7% and 26.7% of patients with no-to-minimal and moderate prestroke disability, respectively (odds ratio, 0.63 [0.45–0.88],
P
=0.008; adjusted odds ratio, 0.90 [0.60–1.35],
P
=0.6). No increase in the disability at 90 days was observed in 22.4% and 26.7%, respectively. Rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (7.3% versus 6.2%,
P
=0.65), successful recanalization (86.7% versus 83.8%,
P
=0.33), and median length of hospital stay (5 versus 5 days,
P
=0.06) were not significantly different. Death by 90 days was higher in patients with moderate prestroke disability (14.3% versus 40.3%; odds ratio, 4.06 [2.82–5.86],
P
<0.001; adjusted odds ratio, 2.83 [1.84, 4.37],
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

One-third of patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy had a moderate prestroke disability. There was insufficient evidence that functional and procedural outcomes were different between patients with no-to-minimal and moderate prestroke disability. Patients with prestroke disability were more likely to die by 90 days.
Freethinking, Freethinkers and the Jewish Question in Romania until the Outbreak of the First World War
Authors: Rotar Marius
Published: April 2020

The founding of the Romanian Free Thinkers Association (1909) prompted violent criticism against it. This arose out of a milieu influenced by the Romanian Orthodox Church targeting the Association’s anti-religious attitude. One of the allegations formulated against it was that the freethinking movement was only one facet of the wider Jewish universal conspiracy. This article aims to analyse to what extent there was a connection between the freethinking movement in Romania and the Jewish question. The main argument set forward in this article is that the Romanian freethinkers struggled to dismantle these accusations, while attempting to act towards Jewish emancipation in Romania as part of their wider program to transform society.
The Origin of the Blessing over the Sabbath Light: The Shift from Obligation to Miẓvah
Authors: Brem Jerry
Published: April 2020

The Geonim in Babylonia made blessing the Sabbath light the halakhah over a period from the ninth to the tenth centuries CE. A blessing with the words, “Who commanded us” makes the ritual a miẓvah. In the Talmud the Amoraim had defined kindling the Sabbath light as an obligation rather than a miẓvah. The present article discusses their reason for making this distinction. The Geonim did not make kindling the Sabbath light a miẓvah to counter the influence of the Karaite movement, as some scholars have maintained, but to mark the day of rest. To make this ruling, the Geonim had to interpret the Talmud somewhat differently from its original intent. Later, the Rishonim used a similar method to necessitate blessing the Sabbath light. This method of interpretation allowed the Geonim to accommodate the halakhah to the times while holding to tradition.
Exploring Preservice Teachers’ Perception on Rural Teaching and Education through the Mediation of Photovoice
Authors: Miao PEI , Wei JIN , Chang CAI
Published: April 2020

Teacher preparation programs (tpps) are expected to help preservice teachers (psts) to be aware of identify and revise their possibly biased perceptions on potential students and schools they may serve. Field experience, a requirement of every accredited tpp, has long been viewed to have an awareness-raising effect to reconstruct experiences into meaningful insights as well as to impact psts’ perceptions. This study employs photovoice to explore five psts’ perception on rural students and education during their 5-day field experiences from visiting five rural and ethnic minority schools in Yunnan, a southwest province of China. The findings from this study indicate that psts in the field far different from their personal education background shift their perspective concern from instruction to student, which could be the sign that psts improve their reflection to become more inclusive, student-centered other than egocentric, teacher-centered. The study also found that photovoice mediates the participants to document and report their lived experience. It gives the opportunities to psts to ascribe meanings to the photos representing their knowledge and perspective of the phenomenon. Implication to tpps is finally discussed.
Ophiorrhiza hoanglienensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from north-western Vietnam

Authors: NGUYEN THANH TRUNG , WEI YI-GANG , WEN FANG , LE KHUONG DUY , DO TRUONG VAN
Published: April 2020

Ophiorrhiza hoanglienensis, a new species from Hoang Lien mountain range, north-western Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by oblong-lanceolate stipules, equal or subequal paired leaves, congested-cymose inflorescences with 5–10-flowered, distylous flowers, well-developed bracts, lanceolate, 15–20 mm long, unequally 5-lobed calyx with narrowly lanceolate lobes, longest one 3.2–3.5 mm long, shortest one 1.2–2 mm long, exclusively white corolla with 25–28 mm long tube and ovate to broadly triangular lobes, dorsally ribbed without horn. The information on ecology, conservation status, and comparison with similar species is also provided.
Newly recorded genera in the planthopper family Tropiduchidae (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) from Pakistan with redescription of Epora montana Distant
Authors: SOHAIL KAMRAN , WEBB MICK , ZHANG YALIN
Published: April 2020

The tropiduchid genera Epora Walker and Zema Fennah are recorded from Pakistan for the first time and Epora montana Distant is redescribed and illustrated.
Nomenclatural status and possible identity of Aperioptus pictorius (Teleostei: Gonorynchidae [?] and Cobitidae)
Authors: KOTTELAT MAURICE
Published: April 2020

Richardson (1848) described Aperioptus pictorius based on two syntypes from “Borneo”. The description is based partly on a drawing of the whole fish and a close-up of its mouth parts (Fig. 1b). Richardson explained that at the time of writing the description, he no longer had access to the specimens: he had given them to the artist, after having examined them cursorily. After having made the first sketch, the artist placed them in water to have the fins expanded, then forgot about them when he threw out the water, and they were lost. The whole description reads: “The general aspect of the fish is that of a slender Galaxias, but there are no teeth on the jaws. The orifice of the mouth is a narrow vertical oval, which is restricted on the sides by membranous processes. The figure is of the natural size [about 65 mm SL]. Hab. Borneo”. He also indicated:
A new deep-bodied species of Antigonia (Teleostei, Antigoniidae) from the
Andaman Sea (northeastern Indian Ocean)
Authors: PROKOFIEV ARTEM M. , PSOMADAKIS PETER N. , GON OFER
Published: April 2020

A new species of boarfish, Antigonia emanuela, is described from two specimens collected in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Myanmar during bottom trawl surveys conducted by the R/V Dr Fridtjof Nansen in 2015 and 2018. It is unique within the genus in the combination of the deeply rhomboid body (1.1–1.2 times deeper than long), nine dorsal-fin spines, premaxilla strongly bent in middle, scales with deep apical crest armed with numerous spinules, soft dorsal, anal and caudal fins bright-yellow in life. Two other Antigonia species captured during these surveys are A. indica and A. ovalis, the latter species being a first report for the Andaman Sea.
Power Dissipation in Spintronic Devices: A General Perspective
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Supriyo
Published: April 2020

Champions of "spintronics" often claim that spin based signal processing devices will vastly increase speed and/or reduce power dissipation compared to traditional 'charge based' electronic devices. Yet, not a single spintronic device exists today that can lend credence to this claim.
Here, I show that no spintronic device that clones conventional electronic devices, such as field effect transistors and bipolar junction transistors, is likely to reduce power dissipation significantly. For that to happen, spin-based devices must forsake the transistor paradigm of switching
states by physical movement of charges, and instead, switch states by flipping spins of stationary charges. An embodiment of this approach is the "single spin logic" idea proposed more than 10 years ago. Here, I revisit that idea and present estimates of the switching speed and power
dissipation. I show that the Single Spin Switch is far superior to the Spin Field Effect Transistor (or any of its clones) in terms of power dissipation. I also introduce the notion of "matrix element engineering" which will allow one to switch devices without raising and lowering energy barriers
between logic states, thereby circumventing the kTln2 limit on energy dissipation. Finally, I briefly discuss single spin implementations of classical reversible (adiabatic) logic.
Optical Response of Photopolymer Materials for Holographic Data Storage Applications
Authors: Sheridan J. T. , Gleeson M. R. , Close C. E. , Kelly J. V.
Published: April 2020

We briefly review the application of photopolymer recording materials in the area of holographic data storage. In particular we discuss the recent development of the Non-local Polymerisation Driven Diffusion model. Applying this model we develop simple first-order analytic expressions
describing the spatial frequency response of photopolymer materials. The assumptions made in the derivation of these formulae are described and their ranges of validity are examined. The effects of particular physical parameters of a photopolymer on the material response are discussed.
Nonvolatile Memory Devices with NiSi2/CoSi2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Yeh P. H. , Chen L. J. , Liu P. T. , Wang D. Y. , Chang T. C.
Published: April 2020

Metal-oxide-semiconductor structures with NiSi2 and CoSi2 nanocrystals embedded in the SiO2 layer have been fabricated. A pronounced capacitance–voltage hysteresis was observed with a memory window about 1 V under low programming voltage. The retention
characteristic can be improved by using HfO2 layer as control oxide. The processing of the structure is compatible with the current manufacturing technology of semiconductor industry.
Influence of Catalyst Pretreatments on the Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene Over Nanostructured Platinum Based Spent Catalyst
Authors: Shim Wang-Geun , Lee Jae-Wook , Kim Sang-Chai
Published: April 2020

In this study, we regenerated a nano-structured platinum based spent catalyst by applying thermal gas and acid pretreatment and examined the influence of treatment on the catalytic oxidation of toluene. The spent catalysts were pretreated with air, hydrogen and six different acid aqueous
solutions (HCl, H2SO4, HNO3, H3PO4, CH3COOH and C2H2O4. The physicochemical properties of the parent and its modified catalysts were characterized by XRD, BET, TEM, and ICP. The results of light-off
curves showed that air and hydrogen treated catalysts were more active than the parent catalyst. In addition, the catalytic activities of toluene oxidation for acid aqueous treated samples were identical with the order of Pt/Al ratio.
Low Temperature Synthesis of Colloidal CdSe Quantum Dots
Authors: Hwang Seongmi , Choi Youngmin , Ryu Beyong-Hwan
Published: April 2020

In this study, the CdSe nanocrystals were prepared in phenyl ether and octyl amine to investigate the variations of their size, bandgap energy, and photoluminescence with growth time and temperature. The sizes of the CdSe nanocrystals were measured using High Resolution Transmission
Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), and found to be nearly monodisperse for relatively low growth temperature, 130 °C. Their optic properties were characterized by photoluminescence measurements, which showed that the colors of the nanocrystals could be controlled. The bandgap energies of the
nanocrystals were calculated theoretically and found to be in accord with quantum confinement theory. This synthetic method requires only a cheap solvent and offers good reproducibility at a lower price.
Spin-Polarized Current of a Transistor in Single Mn12 Molecular Magnets
Authors: Park Joonho , Yang Heok , Park K.-S. , Lee Eok-Kyun
Published: April 2020

Focusing on the framework of how to realize the molecular spintronics in a single molecular magnet, we present theoretical studies on the spin-polarized quantum transport behavior through a single Mn12 molecular magnet. Our theoretical results were obtained by carrying out
density functional theoretical calculation within the Keldysh nonequilibrium Green function formalism. The ultimate goal of the molecular spintronics is to develop single molecule transistors which generate spin-polarized currents through the molecular magnet. We obtained the densityof states,
the transmission coefficients and the characteristic features of the current–voltage (I–V) on the spin-polarized transport properties of Mn12 by the theoretical calculation. These results show the possibility for the realization of molecular spintroinics using single
molecular magnets.
Behavior Characteristics of Nano-Stage According to Hinge Structure
Authors: Oh Hyun-Seong , Lee Sung-Jun , Kim Yong-Woo , Lee Deug-Woo
Published: April 2020

Nano-stages are used in many ultra-precision systems, such as scanning probe microscope (SPM), optical fiber aligners, ultra-precision cutting, measuring and optical systems. Generally, ultra-precision machining and measuring are achieved using a nano-scale motion stage actuated using
Piezo-electric actuators (PZT), and the importance of and demands for the motion stage increase with the need to improve system performance and accuracy. However, it is difficult to find solutions because the performance and characteristics of nano-scale motion stages are determined by various
factors, such as the hinge structure, actuator, and method of system control. This paper focuses on improving of leafspring and planar joint hinges, and suggests a composite joint hinge stage.
Fabrications of Nanofibers as Crossed Arrays by Electrospinning
Authors: Gu Bon Kang , Sohn Kiwon , Kim Seon Jeong , Kim Sun I.
Published: April 2020

We have developed a new method for obtaining nanofiber crossed arrays by exploiting an auxiliary electrode subjected to electrical frequencies, between the capillary tip and the grounded target in an electrospinning machine. The frequencies generated crossed arrays on a flat collector,
used instead of a rotating wheel because of intersecting jets. We observed many straight and crossed structures. We determined the variation in morphology with changes in frequency, and characterized the samples using optical microscopy and a field emission scanning electron microscope. This
paper reports on a simple, easy method for generating crossed array nanofibers on a flat substrate using electrical frequency in an auxiliary electrode.
Nanofibrous Scaffold Engineering Using Electrospinning
Authors: Murugan R. , Huang Z. M. , Yang F. , Ramakrishna S.
Published: April 2020

Scaffold plays a critical role in tissue engineering where it provides necessary structural support for the cells to accommodate and to guide their growth in the three dimensional space into a specific tissue. Therefore, engineering scaffolds favorable for cell/tissue growth is of great
importance and a pre-requisite for scaffold-based tissue engineering. Electrospinning is a versatile method that has been recently adapted in engineering nano-fibrous scaffolds that mimic the structural features of biological extracellular matrix (ECM). It offers many advantages over conventional
scaffold methodologies, for example, capable of producing ultra-fine fibers with high porosity, high spatial orientation, high aspect ratio, and high surface area, which are highly required for the initial cell attachment, tissue formation, and continued function. Considering these astonishing
merits, this article emphasis on nano-fibrous scaffold engineering by electrospinning.
A historical examination of police firearms
Authors: Phillips Scott W
Published: April 2020

This study provides a historical examination of firearms in policing to understand how weapons have evolved within the American field. A search was conducted of historical newspaper databases and a small number of books and journal articles for information on the different firearms used in policing since their inception. The evidence demonstrates that US police officers have been using revolvers since the Civil War, but there were no agency standards until the late 19th century. The notion of ‘risk’ has been a consistent justification for arming police officers, including their possession of semiautomatic pistols, shotguns, and rifles.
Women’s Empowerment and the Well-being of Children in Nepal
Authors: Panday Priniti
Published: April 2020

This article examines the relationship between women’s empowerment and child well-being in Nepal. Various indicators of women’s empowerment and child well-being are presented and compared across the seven provinces in the country. A strong positive relationship between the two is established. In fact, women’s empowerment appears to have a stronger relationship to children’s well-being than wealth indicators.
Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of complete anastomosis stenosis after colorectal resection without protective ileostomy: report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Deng Shenghe , Cao Yinghao , Gu Junnan , Wu Ke , Li Jiang , Tao Kaixiong , Wang Guobin , Wang Jiliang , Cai Kailin
Published: April 2020

This case report describes a novel procedure for opening the lumen of a completely obstructed anastomosis when open surgery is not an option. Two patients underwent ileocecal or colorectal resection and one-stage anastomosis reconstruction without diverging ileostomy. The patients developed post-surgical abdominal distension and nausea. Emergency imaging indicated complete anastomotic obstruction and distal intestinal anastomosis emptiness. Colonoscopy revealed an anastomosis that was completely discontinued by a membranous structure. Considering that open surgery was not a viable treatment option, a minimally invasive endoscopic approach was adopted to repair the obstruction. A needle knife was used to puncture the linear white scar and contrast agent was injected under endoscopy and fluoroscopic guidance. Fluoroscopically, the proximal bowel was identified and a dual knife-mediated membrane puncture was performed. A guidewire was then passed through the incision into the proximal bowel and progressive pneumatic dilatation was performed successively with a controlled radial expansion balloon dilator until a 1.8 cm diameter dilation was achieved. After conventional balloon dilatation, the endoscope easily passed through the anastomosis without any patient discomfort. There were no postoperative signs of immediate or delayed complications. Overall, endoscopic incision and dilatation was a safe and effective treatment for acute anastomotic obstruction after colorectal surgery.
Merely feminist: Politics, partiality, gender, and geography
Authors: Amoore Louise
Published: April 2020

This article introduces a virtual theme issue dedicated to the intersection of feminist and political geographies. Through a tracing of feminist thought in human geography across the 25 year period of 1993 to 2018, via the debates in Progress in Human Geography, what comes into view is a treatment of politics and the political that yields an alternative genealogy of political geography. Feminist work has advanced a fundamental critique of what has come to count as politics in human geography. Drawing on Judith Butler’s concept of the ‘merely cultural’, I suggest that a continued annexing of the ‘merely feminist’ has rendered alternative vocabularies of the political and different scales of politics as supplements to that which is registered as politics within political geography.
Together We Can Do So Much: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework of Collaboration in Schools
Authors: Griffiths Amy-Jane , Alsip James , Hart Shelley R. , Round Rachel L. , Brady John
Published: April 2020

Effective collaboration is associated with positive outcomes for students and is a key component of equitable educational opportunities. There are challenges to effective collaboration, however, as our understanding of it differs based on the various definitions in the literature. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify the common constructs across definitions of collaboration as a means to develop a universal model that can be used in the schools. Through the development of a “building blocks” framework, we provide a common definition and identify the steps that must be taken before true collaboration can occur. This model highlights the iterative nature of the collaborative process and the importance of revisiting the foundational aspects of collaborative development. The systematic review focuses on using a common definition for research and the practice of collaboration.
Extubation and Noninvasive Ventilation of Patients Supported by Extracorporeal Life Support for Cardiogenic Shock: A Single-Center Retrospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Magunia Harry , Guerrero Aida M. , Keller Marius , Jacoby Johann , Schlensak Christian , Haeberle Helene , Koeppen Michael , Nowak-Machen Martina , Rosenberger Peter
Published: April 2020

Background:

Temporary extracorporeal life support (ECLS) by venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is an emerging therapy for patients with severe, ongoing cardiogenic shock. After stabilization of the hemodynamic status and end-organ function, sedation weaning, extubation, and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) can be attempted. The goal of this study was to analyze the feasibility of extubation and NIV during versus after ECLS for cardiogenic shock.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective observational study of 132 patients undergoing ECLS due to severe cardiogenic shock between January 2015 and December 2016 at a tertiary care university hospital.

Results:

Patients received ECLS due to acute myocardial infarction (20.6%), ongoing cardiogenic shock (15.2%), postoperative low-cardiac-output syndrome (24.2%), and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (40.2%). Overall, intensive care unit survival was 44.7%. Sixty-nine (52.3%) patients could never be extubated. Forty-three (32.6%) were extubated while on ECLS support (group 1) and 20 (15.1%) were extubated after weaning from ECLS (group 2). Patients extubated during ECLS had a significantly shorter total time on ventilator ( P = .003, mean difference: −284 hours [95% confidence limits: −83 to −484]) and more invasive ventilation free days ( P = .0018; mean difference 8 days [95%CL: 2-14]). Mortality and NIV failure rates were similar between groups.

Conclusions:

Extubation and NIV are feasible in patients who stabilize during ECLS therapy. Further studies need to address whether extubation has the potential to improve patients outcome or if the feasibility to extubate is a surrogate for disease severeness.
Asymmetric Effects of Exchange Rate and Its Relationship with Foreign Investments: A Case of Indian Stock Market
Authors: Siddiqui Saif , Roy Preeti
Published: April 2020

Emerging markets, including India, are witnessing an influx of foreign capital. The article investigates the role of exchange rate which influences both the net foreign institutional investments (FIIs) and the stock markets, using monthly data, from January 2008 to May 2018. The effects of real effective exchange rate are studied through non-linear ARDL co-integration. The long-run relationship is found in all the three models constructed. The results highlight the nature of FII flows in relation to exchange rate asymmetry. Real rupee depreciation has a long-run effect on their debt flows. The ‘adjustment asymmetry effect’ of exchange rate is found for equity flows in the long run. The similar effect is observed for the Nifty 50 model. Due to high volatility, even positive stock returns do not attract equity FII flows. In the short run, rupee depreciation in real terms negatively influences Nifty returns. The S&P 500 returns explain FII flows indicating information asymmetry. These outcomes serve a vital input for key stakeholders such as potential FIIs, domestic traders, regulators and policymakers.
Book review: Monica C. Worline and Jane E. Dutton, Awakening Compassion at Work
Authors: Chauhan Vinit Singh
Published: April 2020

Monica C. Worline and Jane E. Dutton, Awakening Compassion at Work, Berrtt-Koehler Publishers, 242 pp., US$17.23. ISBN-13:978-1626564459.
A novel herpesvirus in a white stork associated with splenic and hepatic necrosis
Authors: Mack Zoe E. , Bonar Christopher J. , Garner Michael M. , Connolly Maren J. , Childress April L. , Wellehan James F. X.
Published: April 2020

We identified a novel herpesvirus in a captive juvenile white stork ( Ciconia ciconia) that experienced progressive weight loss followed by death. Histologic findings included severe splenic and hepatic necrosis, and intranuclear inclusion bodies in hepatocytes and unidentified splenic cells. The virus was amplified, sequenced, and subsequently accessioned as Ciconiid alphaherpesvirus 1. Phylogenetic analysis was performed and revealed that this virus is more closely related to mammalian herpesviruses than those within the genus Mardivirus. Additional sequence of viruses in this area may elucidate the ancestral virus that jumped from reptilian to mammalian hosts.
Weight Outcomes With Empagliflozin as Compared With Liraglutide in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Grabarczyk Ted Robert , Wissman Natalie Koury
Published: April 2020

Background:

Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are associated with weight loss and improved cardiovascular outcomes, and are increasingly used in pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Objectives:

To compare weight loss outcomes of empagliflozin and liraglutide in patients with T2DM and overweight/obesity not yet prescribed insulin but requiring additional pharmacotherapy to improve glycemic control.

Methods:

This is an observational, multisite, cohort study of veterans with T2DM prescribed liraglutide or empagliflozin. Participants were prescribed either empagliflozin or liraglutide prior to November 1, 2017, had a hemoglobin A1C (A1C) ≥7.0%, had a body mass index ≥27 kg/m2, and were not treated with insulin at baseline. The primary outcome was change in weight after 1 year using multiple regression. Secondary outcomes were the proportion achieving ≥5% weight loss and change in A1C.

Results:

Weight loss was not significantly different between groups: −2.17 kg (95% CI: −2.91 to −1.42) in the liraglutide group (n = 298) and −2.81 kg (95% CI: −3.43 to −2.20) in the empagliflozin group (n = 247; P > 0.05). After adjusting for covariates, this effect remained nonsignificant. There was no difference in change in A1C between liraglutide (−0.83%; 95% CI: −1.05% to −0.62%) and empagliflozin (−0.71%; 95% CI: −0.89% to −0.53%; P > 0.05).

Conclusions and Relevance:

There was no significant difference in weight outcomes after 1 year in veterans treated with liraglutide versus empagliflozin. Because both medications did show modest weight loss, both remain good options for patients needing an additional medication to improve glycemic control that is at least weight neutral.
Fault diagnosis of synchronous hydraulic motor based on acoustic signals
Authors: Hou Jiaoyi , Sun Hongyu , Xu Aoyu , Gong Yongjun , Ning Dayong
Published: April 2020

Synchronous hydraulic motors are used in high load conditions. Therefore, the failure of such motors must be promptly detected to avoid severe accidents and economic loss. The automation of signal processing and diagnostic processes in practical engineering applications can help improve engineering efficiency and reduce hazards. As a non-contact acquisition signal, an acoustic signal has easier acquisition than a vibration signal. This article proposes an automatic fault detection method for synchronous hydraulic motors, which uses acoustic signals. The proposed method includes the automatic calculation and pattern recognition of the parameters of fault feature vectors. The automatic calculation of the fault feature vector is based on the combination of wavelet packet energy and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Then, the nearest-neighbor classifier is used for fault diagnosis. This study verifies that the proposed method can effectively identify the normal state, gear wear, gear rust, and barrier block wear. This method provides a solution for the automatic fault diagnosis of synchronous hydraulic motors and other types of quasi-period rotating machinery.
Study of concept for hydraulic hose dynamics investigations to enable understanding of the hose fluid–structure interaction behavior
Authors: Hyvärinen Jari , Karlsson Matts , Zhou Lin
Published: April 2020

Fatigue failure of a hydraulic hose systems, caused by violent vibrations, has become a critical factor creating operational and maintenance cost for the end user of rock drill equipment. Similar behavior is also appearing in, for example, forestry machines. Hoses are used as parts of the energy feeding system in machines such as the ones use for mining and civil construction operations. This work aims to create an understanding of the dynamic behavior of a selected hydraulic hose. The numerical modeling approach selected includes a boundary element method approach in the fluid-elastic analysis of the dynamics of a pressurized hose with conveying fluid. Experimental modal analysis was used to validate the numerical model. Pre-tension and pressure-induced tension were monitored with an in-house-developed strain gauge–based load cell. The analysis and experiments show that a complex coupling, of pure structural bending modes, appears when the hose is subjected to internal flow. Some of the modeshapes show a circular motion of the hose cross sections. As shown in this article, these coupled modes become increasingly sensitive to external or internal excitation with increasing flow rate. To illustrate the strength of the proposed approach, the second part of the work in this article presents a parametric study of hose dynamics for hoses with typical dimensions used in industrial applications. This investigation of how different parameters influence the dynamic characteristics of hydraulic hoses shows, for example, that hose end-support stiffness has a large impact on the stability and dynamic behavior of the hose. A soft support tends to create a static instability–type behavior where the lowest frequency mode frequency decreases to levels close to zero with increasing flow speed. Pre-tension of the hose has a stabilizing effect on the hose dynamics. In the case when the internal pressure of the hydraulic hose does not generate tension of the hose, then the increase or decrease in the internal pressure has limited influence on the hose dynamics: this is at least a conclusion valid in the investigated 100–210 bar pressure range. In addition, a smaller diameter hose is more sensitive than a larger diameter hose, and this is valid as long as the pre-tension is high enough to maintain static stability in the entire flow rate range.
Using Environmental Features to Maximize Prediction of Regional Intergroup Bias
Authors: Hehman Eric , Ofosu Eugene K. , Calanchini Jimmy
Published: April 2020

The present research adopts a data-driven approach to identify how characteristics of the environment are related to different types of regional in-group biases. After consolidating a large data set of environmental attributes ( N = 813), we used modern model selection techniques (i.e., elastic net regularization) to develop parsimonious models for regional implicit and explicit measures of race-, religious-, sexuality-, age-, and health-based in-group biases. Developed models generally predicted large amounts of variance in regional biases, up to 62%, and predicted significantly and substantially more variance in regional biases than basic regional demographics. Human features of the environment and events in the environment strongly and consistently predicted biases, but nonhuman features of the environment and population characteristics inconsistently predicted biases. Results implicate shared psychological causes of different regional intergroup biases, reveal distinctions between biases, and contribute to developing theoretical models of regional bias.
Estrogen-regulated PTTG1 promotes breast cancer progression by regulating cyclin kinase expression
Authors: Meng Chunhui , Zou Yan , Hong Weiwei , Bao Chunhua , Jia Xiaofeng
Published: April 2020

Background

The present study aims to investigate the effects of pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG) 1 on breast cancer and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

GEO data set was applied to analyze the relationship between PTTG1 and survival status and the TCGA breast cancer dataset was used to explore its possible targets. The stable cell lines including PTTG1 knockdown cells, estrogen receptor (ESR) 1 knockdown cells, and PTTG1 overexpression cells were constructed. MTT was used to determine cell viabilities. Propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry were used to analyze the cell cycle. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was employed to determine the mRNA expressions. Points mutations and luciferase reporter assays were used to determine the binding sites of estrogen.

Results

PTTG1 was associated with poor survival rates in breast cancer. In vitro study demonstrated that PTTG1 affected cell viabilities of MCF7 and T47D cells. Besides, PTTG1 affected cell cycle arrest of breast cancer cells. Overexpression of PTTG1 led to more breast cancer cells distributed in S phase. The levels of PTTG1 were associated with estrogen and further results showed that the levels of PTTG1 were positively correlated to tamoxifen resistance. Two genes including CCNA2 and CCNB2 were identified to be possible targets of PTTG1.

Conclusion

Estrogen-regulated PTTG1 promotes the development of breast cancer cells by the regulation of the cell cycle.
Effective methods for reactivating inactive blood donors: a stratified randomised controlled study
Authors: Ou-Yang Jian , Bei Chun-Hua , Liang Hua-Qin , He Bo , Chen Jin-Yan , Fu Yong-Shui
Published: April 2020

Background

Recruiting of sufficient numbers of donors of blood products is vital worldwide. In this study we assessed the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of telephone calls and SMS reminders for re-recruitment of inactive blood donors.

Methods

This single-centre, non-blinded, parallel randomised controlled trial in Guangzhou, China included 11,880 inactive blood donors whose last donation was between January 1 and June 30, 2014. The donors were randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups (telephone call or short message service [SMS] communications) or to a control group without intervention. SMS messages with altruistic appeal were adopted in the SMS group; in addition to altruistic appeal, reasons for deferral of blood donation were also asked in the telephone group. All participants were followed up for 1 year. The primary outcome was re-donation rate, and rates in different groups were compared by intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis and estimation of the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT). Secondary outcomes were the self-reported deterrents. Other outcomes included the re-donation interval, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of telephone calls and SMS reminders on re-recruitment.

Results

ITT analysis revealed no significant differences in the re-donation rate among the three groups. ATT estimations indicated that among compliers, telephone calls significantly increased re-donation compared to both SMS reminders and no intervention. Donor return behaviour was positively associated with receiving reminders successfully, being male, older age, and previous donation history. The SMS reminder prompted donors to return sooner than no reminder within 6 months, and according to ICER calculations, SMS reminders were more cost-effective than telephone calls. Donors reported time constraints as the most main causes of self-deferral in the telephone group, and altruistic appeal had a positive effect on these donors.

Conclusions

Interventions to reactivate inactive blood donors can be effective, with telephone calls prompting more donors to return but at a greater cost than SMS messages. SMS reminder with altruistic appeal can urge donors to re-donate sooner within 6 months than no reminder.

Trial registration

NCT03366441(Reactivation of Inactive Blood Donors). Retrospectively registered 4 December 2017.