bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gustav Jahoda: The art and science of constructive skepticism
Authors: Poortinga Ype H. , Schruijer Sandra G.L.
Published: August 2018

In this essay, we consider Gustav Jahoda’s contributions to empirical research and conceptual reflection in the fields of cross-cultural and social psychology. The first section draws attention to what we see as salient characteristics of his empirical research. The second section describes Jahoda’s critiques of some iconic theoretical concepts and distinctions. The third section describes his historical interest in the development of the two fields, with cultural context as a focus. In the conclusion section, we mention why Jahoda’s contributions need to be taken into account by current researchers and those to come.
A roundtrip – Inspired by Gustav Jahoda: Observations of a mature student
Authors: Murdock Elke
Published: August 2018

There was a brief overlap between Gustav Jahoda’s path towards the end of his academic (pre-emeritus) career and my own as a student at the Saarland University – a prominent place in the development of cultural psychology. This article highlights some of Jahoda’s fruitful collaborations with Saarbruecken colleagues on the history of (cross-) cultural psychology as well as definitions of perspectives within the field. Gustav Jahoda has also inspired me to pursue the field of cross-cultural psychology and a personal account of this journey will be provided leading to some general observations about Gustav Jahoda’s legacy from a mature student’s perspective.
Optimizing the indoor thermal behaviour of housing units in hot humid climates: Analysis and modelling of sustainable constructive alternatives
Authors: García Yokasta , Cuadrado Jesús , Blanco Jesús M. , Roji Eduardo
Published: August 2018

Indoor housing temperatures in tropical climates exceed values associated with thermal comfort, whenever mechanical climate-control systems usually are not allowed due electrical restrictions especially in poor areas where infrastructures are inadequate to maintain a standard of living. This study aims to address thermally efficient and sustainable constructive alternatives in such severe climates. It shows how single-family residential building can achieve comfort conditions, through low-energy consumption. Different alternatives were modelled through DesignBuilder (powered by EnergyPlus), analysing options for roofs and facades solutions for comparison with a reference model for the warmer week of the year. The finding identified the most suitable orientation, and verified the influence of key aspects, such as roof-slab shading and a combination of both façade and roofing strategies. The study compared alternatives tested for different roof systems to establish the comfort hours, showing an increase of 17.86% with solely the roof system, while actions taken exclusively on façades increased the comfort hours by up to 6.55%. Finally, the combined performance of the best roof and facade options showed improvements of up to 92.86% in terms of comfort hours, with an economic impact of 4.8% needed for the practical implementation of the best alternative.
Effect of aluminum carbide interphase on the thermomechanical behavior of carbon nanotube/aluminum nanocomposites
Authors: Shi Xiaolong , Hassanzadeh Aghdam Mohammad Kazem , Ansari Reza
Published: August 2018

The objective of this work is to investigate the coefficient of thermal expansion of carbon nanotube reinforced aluminum matrix nanocomposites in which aluminum carbide (Al4C3) interphase formed due to chemical interaction between the carbon nanotube and aluminum matrix is included. To this end, the micromechanical finite element method along with a representative volume element, which incorporates, carbon nanotube, interphase, and aluminum matrix is employed. The emphasis is mainly placed on the effect of Al4C3 interphase on the coefficient of thermal expansion of aluminum nanocomposites with random microstructures. The effects of interphase thickness, carbon nanotube diameter, and volume fraction on the thermomechanical response of aluminum nanocomposite are discussed. The results reveal that the effect of Al4C3 interphase on the coefficient of thermal expansion of the aluminum nanocomposites becomes more significant with (i) increasing the coefficient of thermal expansion volume fraction, (ii) decreasing the coefficient of thermal expansion diameter, and (iii) increasing the interphase thickness. It is clearly observed that the coefficient of thermal expansion varies nonlinearly with the carbon nanotube diameter; however, it decreases linearly as the carbon nanotube volume fraction increases. Furthermore, the axial and transverse coefficient of thermal expansions of aligned continuous and discontinuous carbon nanotube-reinforced aluminum nanocomposites with Al4C3 interphase are predicted. Also, the presented finite element method results are compared with the available experiment in the literature, rule of mixture, and concentric cylinder model results.
Primary Use of the TruePath Crossing Device for Infrainguinal Chronic Total Occlusions With Intravascular Ultrasound Evaluation
Authors: Soga Yoshimitsu , Nakamura Miho , Hirose Kaoru , Ito Nobuhiro , Tomoi Yusuke , Hiramori Seiichi , Ando Kenji
Published: August 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the use of the TruePath crossing device as the primary recanalization tool for infrainguinal chronic total occlusions (CTO). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 50 patients (mean age 75 years; 26 men) with 55 infrainguinal CTOs treated with the TruePath between March 2017 and September 2017 at a single center. The mean occlusion length was 138±55 mm, and femoropopliteal lesions accounted for 65% of the 55 lesions. The primary outcome measure was CTO crossing using the TruePath alone; secondary outcomes were assisted success (>50% lumen gain using the TruePath), device-related complications, and intraluminal crossing evaluated by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Results: Complete success was achieved in 33 (60%) of 55 lesions having a mean occlusion length of 145±72 mm. Among these, the true lumen crossing rate was 97% according to IVUS evaluation. Assisted success was achieved in 15 (68%) of the 22 failures. Complete/assisted success, in which the TruePath was thought to have contributed to CTO crossing, was attained in 48 (87%) of the 55 lesions. Three (5.5%) complications were observed: a perforation, an access-site hematoma, and acute occlusion; only the perforation was device related (1.8%). Multivariate analysis showed PACCS grade 4 (odds ratio 4.5, 95% confidence interval 1.33 to 15.5, p=0.02) was an independent predictor of TruePath failure. Conclusion: Primary use of the TruePath crossing device for infrainguinal CTOs demonstrated a satisfactory complete success rate and a high rate of IVUS-documented intraluminal crossing with few device-related complications. Severe calcification is an independent predictor of TruePath failure.
A Modification of the Stapled TransAnal Rectal Resection (STARR) Procedure for Rectal Prolapse
Authors: Lin Hong-Cheng , Chen Hua-Xian , He Qiu-Lan , Huang Liang , Zhang Zheng-Guo , Ren Dong-Lin
Published: August 2018

Purpose. This study was designed to assess the safety, efficacy, and postoperative outcomes of the modified Stapled TransAnal Rectal Resection (modified STARR) in patients presenting with cases of limited external rectal prolapse. Methods. A prospective cohort of patients with mild rectal prolapse undergoing rectal resection with the Tissue-Selecting Technique Stapled TransAnal Rectal Resection Plus (TSTStarr Plus) stapler between February 2014 and September 2016 was reviewed retrospectively. Results. Twenty-five eligible patients underwent rectal resection with the TSTStarr Plus stapler. The median vertical height of the resected specimen was 5.0 cm (range = 3.1-10 cm) with all cases being confirmed histologically as full-thickness resections. Over a follow-up of 33.6 ± 9.4 months, only 1 case (4%) was encountered with recurrence. The mean postoperative Wexner score was significantly improved when compared with the preoperative scores (preoperative: median = 3, range = 0-20, vs postoperative: median = 2, range = 0-20, respectively; P = .010). The median preoperative Symptom Severity Score and Obstructed Defecation Score were both decreased compared with the postoperative scores ( P = .001). Conclusions. Modified STARR in management of mild rectal prolapse appear to be a safe and effective technique. The initial results would encourage a more formal prospective assessment of this technique as part of a randomized trial for the management of mild rectal prolapse.
Differential Efficacy of 2 Vibrating Orthodontic Devices to Alter the Cellular Response in Osteoblasts, Fibroblasts, and Osteoclasts
Authors: Judex Stefan , Pongkitwitoon Suphannee
Published: August 2018

Modalities that increase the rate of tooth movement have received considerable attention, but direct comparisons between devices are rare. Here, we contrasted 2 mechanical vibratory devices designed to directly transfer vibrations into alveolar bone as a means to influence bone remodeling. To this end, 3 cells types intimately involved in modulating tooth movements—osteoblasts, periodontal ligament fibroblasts, and osteoclasts—were subjected to in vitro vibrations at bout durations prescribed by the manufacturers. As quantified by an accelerometer, vibration frequency and peak accelerations were 400% and 70% greater in the VPro5 (Propel Orthodontics) than in the AcceleDent (OrthoAccel Technologies) device. Both devices caused increased cell proliferation and gene expression in osteoblasts and fibroblasts, but the response to VPro5 treatment was greater than for the AcceleDent. In contrast, the ability to increase osteoclast activity was device independent. These data present an important first step in determining how specific cell types important for facilitating tooth movement respond to different vibration profiles. The device that engendered a higher vibration frequency and larger acceleration (VPro5) was superior in stimulating osteoblast and fibroblast cell proliferation/gene expression, although the duration of each treatment bout was 75% shorter than for the AcceleDent.
Navigation of a 6-French guiding sheath into the common carotid artery using a tri-axial catheter system in transbrachial carotid artery stenting
Authors: Sakamoto Shigeyuki , Matsushige Toshinori , Abiko Masaru , Shimonaga Koji , Hosogai Masahiro , Okazaki Takahito , Ishii Daizo , Oshita Jumpei , Kurisu Kaoru
Published: August 2018

Background and purpose

Placement of a large-bore guiding sheath or catheter into the common carotid artery (CCA) is crucial in transbrachial carotid artery stenting (CAS). Herein, we describe technical tips for the navigation of a 6-French guiding sheath into the CCA using a tri-axial catheter system in transbrachial CAS.

Materials and methods

A total of 27 patients underwent transbrachial CAS. For the right side, a 6-French straight guiding sheath was navigated directly into the CCA using a tri-axial catheter system, with a 4-French Simmons catheter placed through a 6-French straight guiding catheter. For the left side, a 6-French Simmons guiding sheath was navigated into the CCA using a tri-axial catheter system, with a 4-French Simmons catheter placed through a 6-French Simmons guiding catheter. After the placement of a 6-French guiding sheath into the CCA, CAS was performed under distal filter or balloon protection.

Results

Fifteen patients had a right carotid stenosis and 12 patients had a left carotid stenosis. The 6-French guiding sheath was safely placed with ease and provided adequate stabilization for CAS. All procedures were successfully performed without any complications.

Conclusion

The use of a tri-axial catheter system for the navigation of a 6-French guiding sheath into the CCA appears safe and efficient, allowing transbrachial CAS, with 6-French guiding sheath stabilization, to be performed without any complication.
Perspectives on cervical cancer screening and prevention: challenges faced by providers and patients along the Texas–Mexico border
Authors: Boom K , Lopez M , Daheri M , Gowen R , Milbourne A , Toscano P , Carey C , Guerra L , Carvajal JM , Marin E , Baker E , Fisher-Hoch S , Rodriguez AM , Burkalter N , Cavazos B , Gasca M , Cuellar MM , Robles E , Lopez E , Schmeler K
Published: August 2018

Background:

The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and Laredo regions located along the Texas–Mexico border consist of seven counties with a population of approximately 1.5 million people and a high uninsured rate (33.5%). Cervical cancer mortality in these border counties is approximately 30% higher than the rest of Texas. The RGV and Laredo areas were studied to better understand the state of access to cervical cancer prevention services along the Texas–Mexico border.

Methods:

Data on the population served and the services provided were analyzed to determine the gap between cervical cancer screenings recommended versus those received. Through interviews, we gathered the perspectives of 16 local stakeholders regarding cervical cancer screening for underserved individuals in the region.

Findings:

It is estimated that 69,139 uninsured women aged 21–64 years in the RGV/Laredo per year are recommended to undergo cervical cancer screening with Papanicolaou (Pap) and/or human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, but only 8941 (12.9%) Pap tests are being performed by the Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving uninsured women in these regions. Systemic barriers identified include insufficient provider clinical capacity, the high cost of healthcare, and uncertainty about government funding sources. Patient barriers identified include inadequate knowledge on navigating the local healthcare system, low health literacy, lack of money and childcare, an inability to miss work, limited transportation, and fear of deportation.

Conclusion:

Decreasing the disparity between cervical cancer screening services provided and those recommended requires addressing the barriers, identified by local experts, which prevent uninsured women from accessing care. These challenges are being addressed through ongoing programs and collaborations.
Comparison of Best Versus Worst Clinical Outcomes for Adult Cervical Deformity Surgery
Authors: Smith Justin S. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Kim Han Jo , Passias Peter , Protopsaltis Themistocles , Lafage Renaud , Mundis Gregory M. , Klineberg Eric , Lafage Virginie , Schwab Frank J. , Scheer Justin K. , Kelly Michael , Hamilton D. Kojo , Gupta Munish , Deviren Vedat , Hostin Richard , Albert Todd , Riew K. Daniel , Hart Robert , Burton Doug , Bess Shay , Ames Christopher P.
Published: August 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

Factors that predict outcomes for adult cervical spine deformity (ACSD) have not been well defined. To compare ACSD patients with best versus worst outcomes.

Methods:

This study was based on a prospective, multicenter observational ACSD cohort. Best versus worst outcomes were compared based on Neck Disability Index (NDI), Neck Pain Numeric Rating Scale (NP-NRS), and modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scores.

Results:

Of 111 patients, 80 (72%) had minimum 1-year follow-up. For NDI, compared with best outcome patients (n = 28), worst outcome patients (n = 32) were more likely to have had a major complication ( P = .004) and to have undergone a posterior-only procedure ( P = .039), had greater Charlson Comorbidity Index ( P = .009), and had worse postoperative C7-S1 sagittal vertical axis (SVA; P = .027). For NP-NRS, compared with best outcome patients (n = 26), worst outcome patients (n = 18) were younger ( P = .045), had worse baseline NP-NRS ( P = .034), and were more likely to have had a minor complication ( P = .030). For the mJOA, compared with best outcome patients (n = 16), worst outcome patients (n = 18) were more likely to have had a major complication ( P = .007) and to have a better baseline mJOA ( P = .030). Multivariate models for NDI included posterior-only surgery ( P = .006), major complication ( P = .002), and postoperative C7-S1 SVA ( P = .012); models for NP-NRS included baseline NP-NRS ( P = .009), age ( P = .017), and posterior-only surgery ( P = .038); and models for mJOA included major complication ( P = .008).

Conclusions:

Factors distinguishing best and worst ACSD surgery outcomes included patient, surgical, and radiographic factors. These findings suggest areas that may warrant greater awareness to optimize patient counseling and outcomes.
What Are the Important Predictors of Postoperative Functional Recovery in Patients With Cervical OPLL? Results of a Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Nakashima Hiroaki , Kanemura Tokumi , Kanbara Shunsuke , Satake Kotaro , Ito Keigo , Ishiguro Naoki , Kato Fumihiko , Imagama Shiro
Published: August 2018

Study Design:

A retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to identify important predictors of poor functional recovery in patients undergoing surgery for cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of 142 OPLL patients with laminoplasty; 135 had complete radiographical data and were followed up for ≥2 years. The following OPLL characteristics were compared between patients with “good” and “poor” outcomes (Japanese Orthopedic Association [JOA] recovery rate ≥50% and <50%, respectively): number of ossified levels, OPLL classification, ossification shape, K-line, canal-occupying ratio, and increased magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal intensity. Predictors of functional recovery were identified.

Results:

Pre- and postoperative (2 years following surgery) JOA scores were 10.6 ± 2.9 and 14.1 ± 2.2, respectively, indicating significant improvement following laminoplasty ( P < .001). The average JOA recovery rate was 53.4% ± 34.7%, with 81 (60.0%) and 54 (40.0%) patients in the better and poorer neurological outcome groups, respectively. The canal occupation ratio of OPLL ≤60%/>60% were 117 (86.7%) and 18 (13.3%) patients, respectively. In the stepwise logistic regression analysis, an occupation ratio greater than 60% was identified as a significant factor for poor postoperative neurological outcome (relative risk, 4.82; 95% confidential interval, 1.61-14.46, P = .005).

Conclusions:

This multivariate analysis demonstrated a large size OPLL (occupying ratio >60%) was associated with a risk of poor neurological recovery roughly 5 times greater, and therefore other types of surgery are recommended in cases with such a ratio.
A percutaneous, minimally invasive annulus fibrosus needle puncture model of intervertebral disc degeneration in rabbits
Authors: Luo T David , Marquez-Lara Alejandro , Zabarsky Zachary K , Vines Jeremy B , Mowry Katie C , Jinnah Alexander H , Ma Xue , Berwick Benjamin W , Willey Jeffrey S , Li Zhongyu , Smith Thomas L , O’Gara Tadhg J
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

Various animal models have been proposed to mimic the pathophysiologic process of intervertebral disc degeneration, a leading cause of back pain. The purpose of this study is to describe a minimally invasive technique via percutaneous needle puncture of the annulus fibrosus in New Zealand white rabbits.

Methods:

Under fluoroscopic guidance, an 18-gauge spinal needle was inserted 2 cm lateral to the midline spinous process. The needle was slowly advanced at approximately 45° angle until it was adjacent to the L5/L6 disc space. Lateral and anteroposterior views were used to verify correct needle position before advancing into the nucleus pulposus. The rabbits underwent weekly X-rays for 4 weeks to assess disc height index. MRI T2 relaxation was evaluated at week four to assess morphological changes. Discs were histologically graded on a 12-point scale to assess degeneration and compared to discs obtained from uninjured rabbits.

Results:

There were no complications associated with the percutaneous needle puncture procedure. All animals survived the duration of the experiment. Four weeks after injury, the disc height had progressively narrowed to approximately 50% of baseline. MRI assessment at the 4-week time point demonstrated a mean T2 relaxation time at the L5/L6 level that was 20.9% of the T2 relaxation time at the uninjured L4/L5 disc level ( p < 0.001). Histological analysis demonstrated lamellar disorganization of the annulus and decreased cellularity and proteoglycan content within the injured nucleus compared to uninjured control discs.

Conclusion:

The present study demonstrated a reliable technique of inducing an annular tear via a percutaneous needle puncture. Compared to open surgical approaches, the percutaneous model produces similar progressive disc degeneration while minimizing harm to the animal subjects.

Clinical Relevance:

The present study establishes a technique for the introduction of novel therapeutic agents to treat disc degeneration that may translate to future clinical trials.
Return to Play After PRP and Rehabilitation of 3 Elite Ice Hockey Players With Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow
Authors: McCrum Christopher L. , Costello Joanna , Onishi Kentaro , Stewart Chris , Vyas Dharmesh
Published: August 2018

Background:

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury is a well-described etiology of pain and decreased performance for the overhead athlete. Despite a growing volume of literature regarding the treatment of these injuries for overhead athletes, there is a paucity of such data regarding stickhandling collision sport athletes, such as ice hockey players.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to characterize this injury among 3 elite ice hockey players and to describe the ability of these athletes to return to play, as well as to review the unique sport-specific implications of this injury, evaluation, nonsurgical management, and considerations for return to play. The authors hypothesized that elite ice hockey players will be able to return to play at the same level following nonoperative treatment of UCL injury.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Data from 3 elite professional ice hockey players who sustained a high-grade injury to the UCL were retrospectively reviewed. All athletes underwent 2 autologous conditioned plasma injections as part of their treatment and were evaluated with ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Results:

Three consecutive elite ice hockey players were included in this study, and no patients were excluded. Players were cleared to full return to play at a mean 36 days postinjury. Follow-up examination at this time point demonstrated full range of motion of the elbow for all athletes, without tenderness to palpation over the UCL, including no tenderness over the humeral insertion site. Stability examination improved as well, demonstrating a soft to moderate endpoint with valgus stress, although this was not symmetric to the contralateral side. All athletes were able to continue to play at the same level of competition as before the injury occurred, without any complaints. No players had repeat injury during the same or following seasons.

Conclusion:

The authors present 3 elite-level ice hockey players who sustained a high-grade injury to the UCL. Successful return to play was possible after nonoperative treatment with injection of autologous conditioned plasma at a mean 36 days following injury. Athletes who injure either the top or bottom hand can return to play at the same elite level following this injury.
Chinese leadership: Provincial perspectives on promotion and performance
Authors: Sun Jiajing , Cole Michael , Huang Zhiyuan , Wang Shouyang
Published: August 2018

This article addresses whether the promotion of China’s provincial leadership can be explained through economic growth or alternative factors (experience, education or having previously held a central government post). We use promotion definitions, based on official administrative rankings and a more accurate reflection of political-governmental power relationships, and five econometric models. Analysis is also located within specific scholarship about promotion in the Chinese bureaucracy, bureaucratic cultures and transitions from socialism. Findings suggested some support for the idea that economic growth records affected promotion in terms of the second definition and additional evidence to imply impacts from non-economic factors.
The role of the patient in patient safety: What can we learn from healthcare’s history?
Authors: Leistikow Ian , Huisman Frank
Published: August 2018

Many nations, healthcare organizations and interest groups are addressing the question of how patients can best be involved in designing and executing patient safety policy. Looking back at how patient engagement has developed in healthcare, we can draw lessons on how to engage patients in patient safety.
IL-33 facilitates proliferation of colorectal cancer dependent on COX2/PGE2
Authors: Li Yongkui , Shi Jie , Qi Shanshan , Zhang Jian , Peng Dong , Chen Zhenzhen , Wang Guobin , Wang Zheng , Wang Lin
Published: August 2018

Background

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) participates in various types of diseases including cancers. Previous studies of this cytokine in cancers mainly focused on its regulation on immune responses by which IL-33 modulated cancer progression. The IL-33 triggered signals in cancer cells remain unclear.

Methods

We analyzed IL-33 gene expression in human colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues and carried out gene enrichment analysis with TCGA Data Portal. We studied CRC proliferation in vivo by inoculating MC38 tumors in IL-33 transgenic mice. We investigated the cell proliferation in vitro with primary CRC cells isolated from fresh human CRC tissues, human CRC cell line HT-29 and mouse CRC cell line MC38. To evaluate the proliferation modulating effects of recombinant IL-33 incubation and other administrated factors, we measured tumor growth, colony formation, cell viability, and the expression of Ki67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). We used several inhibitors, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) neutralizing antibody, ST2 blocking antibody and specific shRNA expressing plasmid to study the pathway mediating IL-33-induced CRC proliferation. The IL-33 receptor ST2 in human CRC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry staining and western blotting. The ST2-positive or negative subsets of primary CRC cells were acquired by flow cytometry sorting.

Results

We found that IL-33 expression was correlated with the gene signature of cell proliferation in 394 human CRC samples. The MC38 tumors grew more rapidly and the tumor Ki67 and PCNA were expressed at higher levels in IL-33 transgenic mice than in wild-type mice. IL-33 promoted cell growth, colony formation and expression of Ki67 and PCNA in primary CRC cells as well as CRC cell lines. IL-33 activated cycloxygenase-2 (COX2) expression and increased PGE2 production, whereas the COX2 selective inhibitor and PGE2 neutralizing antibody abolished the proliferation promoting effect of IL-33. ST2 blockade, ST2-negative sorting, NF-κB specific inhibitor and NF-κB specific shRNA (shP65) abrogated the COX2 induction caused by IL-33.

Conclusion

IL-33 facilitates proliferation of colorectal cancer dependent on COX2/PGE2. IL-33 functions via its receptor ST2 and upregulates COX2 expression through NF-κB signaling. Understanding the IL-33 signal transduction in CRC cells provides potential therapeutic targets for clinical treatment.
Improving clustering performance using independent component analysis and unsupervised feature learning
Authors: Gultepe Eren , Makrehchi Masoud
Published: August 2018

Objective

To provide a parsimonious clustering pipeline that provides comparable performance to deep learning-based clustering methods, but without using deep learning algorithms, such as autoencoders.

Materials and methods

Clustering was performed on six benchmark datasets, consisting of five image datasets used in object, face, digit recognition tasks (COIL20, COIL100, CMU-PIE, USPS, and MNIST) and one text document dataset (REUTERS-10K) used in topic recognition. K-means, spectral clustering, Graph Regularized Non-negative Matrix Factorization, and K-means with principal components analysis algorithms were used for clustering. For each clustering algorithm, blind source separation (BSS) using Independent Component Analysis (ICA) was applied. Unsupervised feature learning (UFL) using reconstruction cost ICA (RICA) and sparse filtering (SFT) was also performed for feature extraction prior to the cluster algorithms. Clustering performance was assessed using the normalized mutual information and unsupervised clustering accuracy metrics.

Results

Performing, ICA BSS after the initial matrix factorization step provided the maximum clustering performance in four out of six datasets (COIL100, CMU-PIE, MNIST, and REUTERS-10K). Applying UFL as an initial processing component helped to provide the maximum performance in three out of six datasets (USPS, COIL20, and COIL100). Compared to state-of-the-art non-deep learning clustering methods, ICA BSS and/or UFL with graph-based clustering algorithms outperformed all other methods. With respect to deep learning-based clustering algorithms, the new methodology presented here obtained the following rankings: COIL20, 2nd out of 5; COIL100, 2nd out of 5; CMU-PIE, 2nd out of 5; USPS, 3rd out of 9; MNIST, 8th out of 15; and REUTERS-10K, 4th out of 5.

Discussion

By using only ICA BSS and UFL using RICA and SFT, clustering accuracy that is better or on par with many deep learning-based clustering algorithms was achieved. For instance, by applying ICA BSS to spectral clustering on the MNIST dataset, we obtained an accuracy of 0.882. This is better than the well-known Deep Embedded Clustering algorithm that had obtained an accuracy of 0.818 using stacked denoising autoencoders in its model.

Conclusion

Using the new clustering pipeline presented here, effective clustering performance can be obtained without employing deep clustering algorithms and their accompanying hyper-parameter tuning procedure.
Viscoacoustic reverse time migration using a time-domain complex-valued wave equation
Authors: Yang Jidong , Zhu Hejun
Published: August 2018

During seismic wave propagation, intrinsic attenuation inside the earth gives rise to amplitude loss and phase dispersion. Without appropriate correction strategies in migration, these effects degrade the amplitudes and resolution of migrated images. Based on a new time-domain viscoacoustic wave equation, we have developed a viscoacoustic reverse time migration (RTM) approach to correct attenuation-associated dispersion and dissipation effects. A time-reverse wave equation is derived to extrapolate the receiver wavefields, in which the sign of the dissipation term is reversed, whereas the dispersion term remains unchanged. The difference between the forward and time-reverse wave equations is consistent with the physical insights of attenuation compensation during wavefield backpropagation. Due to the introduction of an imaginary unit in the dispersion term, the forward and time-reverse wave equations are complex valued. They are similar to the time-dependent Schrödinger equation, whose real and imaginary parts are coupled during wavefield extrapolation. The analytic property of the extrapolated source and receiver wavefields allows us to explicitly separate up- and downgoing waves. A causal imaging condition is implemented by crosscorrelating downgoing source and upgoing receiver wavefields to remove low-wavenumber artifacts in migrated images. Numerical examples demonstrate that our viscoacoustic RTM approach is capable of producing subsurface reflectivity images with correct spatial locations as well as amplitudes.
Persistence of anxiety symptoms after elective caesarean delivery
Authors: Janssen Anna B. , Savory Katrina A. , Garay Samantha M. , Sumption Lorna , Watkins William , Garcia-Martin Isabel , Savory Nicola A. , Ridgway Anouk , Isles Anthony R. , Penketh Richard , Jones Ian R. , John Rosalind M.
Published: August 2018

Background

In the UK, 11.8% of expectant mothers undergo an elective caesarean section (ELCS) representing 92 000 births per annum. It is not known to what extent this procedure has an impact on mental well-being in the longer term.

Aims

To determine the prevalence and postpartum progression of anxiety and depression symptoms in women undergoing ELCS in Wales.

Method

Prevalence of depression and anxiety were determined in women at University Hospital Wales (2015–16;n= 308) through completion of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS; ≥13) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI; ≥40) questionnaires 1 day prior to ELCS, and three postpartum time points for 1 year. Maternal characteristics were determined from questionnaires and, where possible, confirmed from National Health Service maternity records.

Results

Using these criteria the prevalence of reported depression symptoms was 14.3% (95% CI 10.9–18.3) 1 day prior to ELCS, 8.0% (95% CI 4.2–12.5) within 1 week, 8.7% (95% CI 4.2–13.8) at 10 weeks and 12.4% (95% CI 6.4–18.4) 1 year postpartum. Prevalence of reported anxiety symptoms was 27.3% (95% CI 22.5–32.4), 21.7% (95% CI 15.8–28.0), 25.3% (95% CI 18.5–32.7) and 35.1% (95% CI 26.3–44.2) at these same stages. Prenatal anxiety was not resolved after ELCS more than 1 year after delivery.

Conclusions

Women undergoing ELCS experience prolonged anxiety postpartum that merits focused clinical attention.

Declaration of interest

None.
Structures and Conducting Properties of Molecular Conductors Based on DM-TTP
Authors: Kinoshita Naoya , Shirahata Takashi , Misaki Yohji
Published: August 2018

X-ray structure analysis of (DM-TTP)2X (X = PF6, AsF6 and SbF6) was successfully performed. The arrangement of DM-TTP molecules was classified as β20-type. A tight-binding band calculation suggested these salts had a quasi-one-dimensional Fermi surface. (DM-TTP)2SbF6 exhibited metallic conductivity down to 10 K with σ⊥ = 1.4 S cm−1 at room-temperature.
Proteolytic processing of the L-type Ca2+ channel alpha11.2 subunit in neurons
Authors: Buonarati Olivia R. , Henderson Peter B. , Murphy Geoffrey G. , Horne Mary C. , Hell Johannes W.
Published: August 2018

Background: The L-type Ca2+ channel Cav1.2 is a prominent regulator of neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity, and gene expression. The central element of Cav1.2 is the pore-forming α11.2 subunit. It exists in two major size forms, whose molecular masses have proven difficult to precisely determine. Recent work suggests that α11.2 is proteolytically cleaved between the second and third of its four pore-forming domains (Michailidiset al,. 2014).

Methods: To better determine the apparent molecular masses (MR)of the α11.2 size forms, extensive systematic immunoblotting of brain tissue as well as full length and C-terminally truncated α11.2 expressed in HEK293 cells was conducted using six different region–specific antibodies against α11.2.

Results: The full length form of α11.2 migrated, as expected, with an apparent MRof ~250 kDa. A shorter form of comparable prevalence with an apparent MRof ~210 kDa could only be detected in immunoblots probed with antibodies recognizing α11.2 at an epitope 400 or more residues upstream of the C-terminus.

Conclusions: The main two size forms of α11.2 are the full length form and a shorter form, which lacks ~350 distal C-terminal residues. Midchannel cleavage as suggested by Michailidiset al. (2014) is at best minimal in brain tissue.
First draft genome assembly of the Argane tree (Argania spinosa)
Authors: Khayi Slimane , Azza Nour Elhouda , Gaboun Fatima , Pirro Stacy , Badad Oussama , Claros M. Gonzalo , Lightfoot David A. , Unver Turgay , Chaouni Bouchra , Merrouch Redouane , Rahim Bouchra , Essayeh Soumaya , Ganoudi Matika , Abdelwahd Rabha , Diria Ghizlane , Mdarhi Meriem Alaoui , Labhilili Mustapha , Iraqi Driss , Mouhaddab Jamila , Sedrati Hayat , Memari Majid , Hamamouch Noureddine , Alché Juan de Dios , Boukhatem Noureddine , Mrabet Rachid , Dahan Rachid , Legssyer Adelkhaleq , Khalfaoui Mohamed , Badraoui Mohamed , Van de Peer Yves , Tatusova Tatiana , El Mousadik Abdelhamid , Mentag Rachid , Ghazal Hassan
Published: August 2018

Background: The Argane tree (Argania spinosa L. Skeels) is an endemic tree of southwestern Morocco that plays an important socioeconomic and ecologic role for a dense human population in an arid zone. Several studies confirmed the importance of this species as a food and feed source and as a resource for both pharmaceutical and cosmetic compounds. Unfortunately, the argane tree ecosystem is facing significant threats from environmental changes (global warming, over-population) and over-exploitation. Limited research has been conducted, however, on argane tree genetics and genomics, which hinders its conservation and genetic improvement.

Methods: Here, we present a draft genome assembly of A. spinosa. A reliable reference genome of A. spinosa was created using a hybrid de novo assembly approach combining short and long sequencing reads.

Results: In total, 144 Gb Illumina HiSeq reads and 7.2 Gb PacBio reads were produced and assembled. The final draft genome comprises 75 327 scaffolds totaling 671 Mb with an N50 of 49 916 kb. The draft assembly is close to the genome size estimated by k-mers distribution and covers 89% of complete and 4.3 % of partial Arabidopsis orthologous groups in BUSCO.

Conclusion: The A. spinosa genome will be useful for assessing biodiversity leading to efficient conservation of this endangered endemic tree. Furthermore, the genome may enable genome-assisted cultivar breeding, and provide a better understanding of important metabolic pathways and their underlying genes for both cosmetic and pharmacological purposes.
Determinant Factors in Adopting Mobile Technology-based Services by Academic Librarians
Authors: Gholami Zahra , Abdekhoda Mohmmadhiwa , Gavgani Vahideh Zarea
Published: August 2018

Nowadays, mobile technology seems to become integral part of our life. People with different careers have begun to use it in their jobs. This research aims to identify influential factors in mobile technology adoption at library context. To this end, a conceptual model was presented based on an integrated model of technology acceptance model (TAM) and technology organisation and environment (TOE) model. A researcher-made questionnaire was distributed among 120 academic librarians. Seven Factor out of the integrated model of TAM and TOE were chosen to investigate their influence on mobile technology adoption. The results of the study suggest that the proposed model (integrated model of TAM and TOE) is a favourable one to identify the influential factors in mobile technology adoption at library context. In addition, regression analysis indicated that out of these seven factor, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, compatibility, relative advantage and organisational competency are determinant factors in adopting mobile technology-based library services among academic librarians.
Energy Expenditure and Nutritional Status of Sailors During One Month of Extensive Physical Training
Authors: Verma Saroj Kumar , Kirar Vandana , Singh Vijay Kumar , Rakhra Gurseen , Masih Daisy , Vats Annu , Rana Rashmi Tomar , Singh Som Nath
Published: August 2018

The present study was conducted to determine nutritional requirements during extensive physical training by sailors of Indian Navy. A total of 37 sailors who were undergoing physical trainers course at training establishment of Indian Navy participated in this study. Energy expenditure, energy intakes, nutrient status and body composition changes during one month of training were recorded. Mean energy expenditure was found to be 4035 ±733 kcal/day and an average intake of 4478 ±340 kcal/day with sufficient amount of micro and macronutrients. The level of vitamin and minerals in blood and their excretion were in the normal range. Body composition was also maintained with a marginal decrease in body fat content. Increase in grip strength of passive hand was observed (Basal: 41.5 ± 8.8 kg, after 1 month of training:  46.5 ± 6.1 kg). Results indicate adequate nutritional support from the diet and positive effects of the training on health
Role of Cyclooxygenase Pathway and Risk Associated with Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs Therapy in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Ganju Lilly , Garg Iti
Published: August 2018

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit the cyclooxygenase enzyme activity through different
mechanisms and prevent inflammation. But they all have different risks associated with them. Some are associated with
gastrointestinal bleeding and some are strongly allied with the cardiovascular risks. Cyclooxygenase enzyme regulates
prostaglandin synthesis by converting arachidonic acid present at the sn-2 position of membrane phospholipids to
prostaglandin H2. Prostaglandin H2 is the precursor of all prostaglandins. There are two isoforms of cyclooxygenase
enzyme, cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 which differ in their active site due to an isoleucine to valine
substitution at amino acid 523 in cyclooxygenase-2. Cyclooxygenase-1 is constitutively expressed in platelets
where it helps in the formation of thromboxane whereas cyclooxygenase-2 is inductive form and is expressed in
the endothelial cells due to shear stress and forms prostacyclins. Both thromboxanes and prostacyclins maintain
the homeostasis of the vascular wall. During vascular injury prostacyclin production decreases as a result of which
thromboxane synthesis increases in the platelets which leads to platelet aggregation. Although, being strongly
associated with cardiovascular risks, NSAIDs are still prescribed to the patients to prevent pain according to their
condition. So this review aims to summarise the mechanism of cyclooxygenase pathway, possible mechanism of
action of NSAIDs and the risks of cardiovascular events associated with the use of NSAIDs.
Food Nanotechnologies: Purchasing a Double Edge Sword
Authors: Anand Avnika Singh , Prasad Dipti , Mr Amitabh , Singh Shashi Bala , Kohli Ekta
Published: August 2018

Rapid development of nanotechnology has revolutionsed various areas of conventional food science and food industry. The novel properties of nanoparticles (NPs) have led to increasing application of nanotechnology in food industry. Nanofood market have a variety of products like the creamy ice-cream, drinks with no fat, enhanced flavour with nutrients and better textured, coloured and fresh looking food. Continuous monitoring for food spoilage or contamination is possible too. Nanotechnology has transformed the food industries which claim health benefits along with better taste. With the increasing use of NPs especially in food products, where humans are in close contact of the engineered nanomaterials (NMs), it is important to ensure safety before use. Bio-nano interactions often result in novel reaction and formation of products leading to toxicity. NPs mediated toxicity mainly includes inflammation, oxidative damage and genotoxicity. Prolong use of these particles can cause detrimental effects on health. Presently, due to lack of appropriate guidelines and regulations for food nanotechnology there are uncertainties regarding risk identification. Hence, it is essential to evaluate the consequences of this technology in terms of general public and occupational health risks associated with the manufacture, use and disposal of NMs, before instigating the same in day to day use.
Infrared and Structural Studies of Micro and Nano-crystalline Ta Doped Lead Zirconate Titanate Ceramics
Authors: Kumar Praveen , MBalasubramaniam Dr , Murty BS , Rajan KM
Published: August 2018

 In this paper, influence of additives on structural properties of Tantalum (Ta) doped PZT ceramics, prepared by solid-state oxide and mechanical activation (MA) routes, has been studied. The Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies, are done to understand the structural interactions, confirmed that the wave number and bond energy decreases with the increase in Ta content accompanied by decrease in grain size. FTIR spectrum becomes broader in nanocrystalline Ta-PZT. The fraction of tetragonal phase decrease along with reduction in grain size as the Ta content increase. The remnant polarisation and coercive field also follows the similar trend on Ta doping. It is seen that infrared spectroscopy results corroborate the structure and ferroelectric properties of PZT materials.
Application of Spatiotemporal Fuzzy C-Means Clustering for Crime Spot Detection
Authors: Ansari Mohd Yousuf , Prakash Anand , Mainuddin Dr
Published: August 2018

The various sources generate large volume of spatiotemporal data of different types including crime events. In order to detect crime spot and predict future events, their analysis is important. Crime events are spatiotemporal in nature; therefore a distance function is defined for spatiotemporal events and is used in Fuzzy C-Means algorithm for crime analysis. This distance function takes care of both spatial and temporal components of spatiotemporal data. We adopt sum of squared error (SSE) approach and Dunn index to measure the quality of clusters. We also perform the experimentation on real world crime data to identify spatiotemporal crime clusters.

 
Illness beliefs of adolescents with CFS and their parents: the perceived causes of illness and beliefs about recovery
Authors: Loades Maria E. , Rimes Katharine A. , Lievesley Kate , Ali Sheila , Chalder Trudie
Published: August 2018

The objective here was to explore beliefs about the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in a cohort of adolescents with CFS and their parents, and to explore the adolescent’s beliefs about recovery. Questionnaires were administered to a clinical cohort of adolescents (n = 104) and their parents (n = 102 mothers and 63 fathers), presenting to a specialist CFS unit. These included a question about the causes of their illness. Adolescents were also asked about the projected timeline of their recovery from CFS. The most commonly endorsed causes of CFS by adolescents and their parents were a virus and/or contextual factors and stress. Adolescents and their parents were in close agreement about the causes of CFS. Most adolescents said they did not know how long it would take them to recover from CFS. Informing adolescents about the prognosis for CFS is an important aspect of treatment.
Adrenal incidentaloma – diagnostic and treating problem – own experience
Authors: Pogorzelski Ryszard , Celejewski Krzysztof , Toutounchi Sadegh , Krajewska Ewa , Wołoszko Tomasz , Szostek Małgorzata , Jakuczun Wawrzyniec , Fiszer Patryk , Legocka Małgorzata , Gałązka Zbigniew
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Incidentaloma is defined as an tumor diagnosed accidentally using imaging studies performed due to other indications. The aim of this paper was to describe the diagnostic and treatment problems experienced by patients with adrenal incidentaloma in a clinical practice.

Material and methods

In years 2009-2012 there were 33(16,5%) adrenal tumors diagnosed incidentally out of 200 cases treated due to adrenal pathology. The group consisted of 54 patients aged 27-77. In 15(45,5%) patients the diagnosis was made based on ultrasound examination, while in 18(54,5%) the tumor was visualized in CT/MRI.

Results

Only after the diagnostics was finalized, in which in all cases no signs of hormonal activity were detected, 26(78,8%) patients were qualified for the surgery. In 7(21,2%) cases no indications for such a management were found. The latter group was followed-up and in all patients the indications for the surgery arose due to enlargement of the tumor or/and the existence of hormonal activity. Our observations suggest that the incident finding of adrenal tumor is an indication of long-term observation. The analysis of our material shows that all patients observed needed surgical treatment.

Conclusions

The small adrenal tumors under follow-up have a tendency to enlarge and acquire hormonal activity. Long-term observation significantly increases the costs of treatment in that group, which eventually results in surgical management.