bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rabbit Model for Optimization of Amniotic Fluid Components in the EXTrauterine Environment for Newborn Development (EXTEND) System
Authors: Baumgarten Heron D. , Hartman Heather A. , Butt Zoya , Ozawa Katsusuke , Rossidis Avery C. , Lawrence Kendall M. , Kim Aimee G. , Davey Marcus , Flake Alan W.
Published: September 2020

In this model article, we present a protocol for continuous amniotic fluid exchange in rabbits using a novel system to test the effects of growth factor-deficient, artificial amniotic fluid on bowel development. Background: Ideally, the EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND) will provide physiologic support to the extreme premature infant. An important component of that environment is the amniotic fluid. Thus, we developed an animal model to study the growth factors found within amniotic fluid and inform design of a synthetic fluid to optimize fetal development. Methods: We designed a model of amniotic fluid exchange within the pregnant rabbit, continuously removing the natural fluid from around 2 fetuses per doe and replacing it with a physiologic electrolyte solution during the final 100 h of gestation. Two fetuses from the contralateral uterine horn were used as sham-operated controls. Thirty-eight fetuses were analyzed, 19 in each group. We analyzed the fetal growth and bowel development. Results: Ultrasound after 100 h of exchange showed equivalent fluid volumes, p = 0.63. Cultures were negative for bacterial colonization. Final fluid protein concentrations were 11.6% that of control fluid (mean 1,451 ± 224.2 vs. 12,491 ± 849.2 μg/mL). There was no significant difference in fetal growth, with experimental weights 91.4% of control weights, p = 0.07. Fetal bowel weights (90.1%, p = 0.16) and lengths (94.2%, p = 0.49) were also not significantly less compared to controls. There was no significant difference in villous height or crypt depth measurements between the groups, and absorptive capacity of the bowel was not different between groups, p = 0.44. Conclusion: This animal model allows for manipulation of the components of amniotic fluid. Marked reduction of natural amniotic fluid proteins during gestation does not appear to significantly impair fetal growth or bowel development. Further work with this model will assess the importance of amniotic fluid components for normal development to inform design of a synthetic fluid for use during EXTEND.
Imaginal Retraining Reduces Cigarette Smoking: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Moritz Steffen , Göritz Anja S. , Kraj Moana , Gehlenborg Josefine , Hottenrott Birgit , Tonn Peter , Ascone Leonie , Pedersen Anya , Kühn Simone
Published: September 2020

Objectives: Smoking is a highly prevalent addictive behavior with severe and life-shortening health consequences. This is the first study to evaluate the efficacy of a newly developed imaginal variant of approach bias modification (ABM) (i.e., imaginal retraining) for the reduction of craving for tobacco and actual smoking behavior. Methods: We randomized 345 smokers to imaginal retraining (self-help manual) or a control group (either active control or wait-list control). Assessments were carried out online. The treatment interval was 6 weeks. Craving for tobacco represented the primary outcome. The study was registered as DRKS00016860. Results: Retention was 79.7% with no difference between groups. The intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses were significant for the primary outcome (Visual Analogue Scale on craving for tobacco) as well as subjective reduction of smoking (45.5 vs. 26.4%) in favor of imaginal retraining. In the treatment group, 47.6% performed the exercises at least once. This subgroup (per-protocol [PP] sample) showed a significant reduction in tobacco dependency as measured with the Cigarette Dependence Scale (short and long forms) and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence relative to controls. Number of daily cigarettes declined to a greater extent in imaginal retraining in the PP but not ITT analysis. A small dose-effect relationship emerged between craving and frequency of performance of the technique. Conclusion: When used regularly, imaginal retraining may reduce craving for tobacco and actual smoking behavior in a subgroup of smokers. In view of the large subgroup that did not read the manual or did not perform the exercises, alternative ways of conveying the imaginal retraining technique should be sought (e.g., demonstration via video clips). To conclude, imaginal retraining may represent a simple low-threshold technique to reduce smoking and assist current evidence-based treatment programs targeted at abstinence. It needs to be tested whether its mechanism of action deviates from standard ABM.
JAK1 rs310241 and JAK3 rs3008 Genotypes May Increase Susceptibility to Psoriasis: A Case Control Study
Authors: Sayed Khadiga S. , EL-Komy Mohamed H.M. , Shehata Hany , ElShazly Sarah H. , El Desouky Eman D. , Amr Khalda Sayed , ElAraby Nesma M. , AlOrbani Aya M.
Published: September 2020

Background: Janus kinases (JAKs) are a family of non-receptor protein tyrosine kinases that are expressed in a variety of tissues. Several JAK-controlled cytokine receptor pathways are incriminated in the initiation and progression of psoriasis. Genetic polymorphisms influencing JAK expression would be anticipated to have a great impact on disease activity. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between JAK1 rs310241 and JAK3 rs3008 polymorphisms and the risk of developing psoriasis. Methods: Blood samples of 150 patients and 120 controls were screened for nucleotide polymorphisms in JAK1 rs310241 and JAK3 rs3008 genes by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique. Results: The GG genotype of the JAK1 rs310241 and JAK3 rs3008 genes was significantly associated with an increase in psoriasis risk (p = 0.000, OR = 7.7, 95% CI = 2.8–21.5; p = 0.003, OR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.5–6.9, respectively). The G allele of both genes was also associated with psoriasis susceptibility (p = 0.000, OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.4–2.8; p = 0.002, OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.2–2.4, respectively). Conclusion: The results indicate a possible association between JAK1 rs310241 and JAK3 rs3008 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to psoriasis. These findings validate the importance of these molecules in psoriasis and may enable the identification of the individuals most susceptible to the disease.
Evaluation of Different Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Devices for Assessing Tissue Oxygenation with a Vascular Occlusion Test in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Chung Jaeyeon , Ji Sang-Hwan , Jang Young-Eun , Kim Eun-Hee , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kim Jin-Tae , Kim Hee-Soo
Published: September 2020

Near-infrared spectroscopy devices can measure peripheral tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). This study aims to compare StO2 using INVOS® and different O3™ settings (O325:75 and O330:70). Twenty adults were recruited. INVOS® and O3™ probes were placed simultaneously on 1 side of forearm. After baseline measurement, the vascular occlusion test was initiated. The baseline value, rate of deoxygenation and reoxygenation, minimum and peak StO2, and time from cuff release to peak value were measured. The parameters were compared using ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Bonferroni’s correction and Mann-Whitney pairwise comparison were used for post hoc analysis. The agreement between StO2 of devices was evaluated using Bland-Altman plots. INVOS® baseline value was higher (79.7 ± 6.4%) than that of O325:75 and O330:70 (62.4 ± 6.0% and 63.7 ± 5.5%, respectively, p < 0.001). The deoxygenation rate was higher with INVOS® (10.6 ± 2.1%/min) than with O325:75 and O330:70 (8.4 ± 2.2%/min, p = 0.006 and 7.5 ± 2.1%/min, p < 0.001). The minimum and peak StO2 were higher with INVOS®. No significant difference in the reoxygenation rate was found between the devices and settings. The time to reach peak after cuff deflation was faster with INVOS® (both p < 0.001). Other parameters were similar. There were no differences between the different O3™ settings. There were differences in StO2 measurements between the devices, and these devices should not be interchanged. Differences were not observed between O3™ device settings.
Kidney Function and Potassium Monitoring After Initiation of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Blockade Therapy and Outcomes in 2 North American Populations
Authors: Parikh Rishi V. , Nash Danielle M. , Brimble K. Scott , Markle-Reid Maureen , Tan Thida C. , McArthur Eric , Khoshniat-Rad Farzien , Sood Manish M. , Zheng Sijie , Pravoverov Leonid , Nesrallah Gihad E. , Garg Amit X. , Go Alan S.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Clinical practice guidelines recommend routine kidney function and serum potassium testing within 30 days of initiating ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy. However, evidence is lacking about whether follow-up testing reduces therapy-related adverse outcomes.

Methods and Results:

We conducted 2 population-based retrospective cohort studies in Kaiser Permanente Northern California and Ontario, Canada. Patients with outpatient serum creatinine and potassium tests in the 30 days after starting ACE inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy were matched 1:1 to patients without follow-up tests. We evaluated the association of follow-up testing with 30-day all-cause mortality and hospitalization with acute kidney injury or hyperkalemia using Cox regression. We also developed and externally validated a risk score to identify patients at risk of having abnormally high serum creatinine and potassium values in follow-up. We identified 75 251 matched pairs initiating ACE inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2017, in Kaiser Permanente Northern California. Follow-up testing was not significantly associated with 30-day all-cause mortality in Kaiser Permanente Northern California (hazard ratio, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.54–1.06]) and was associated with higher mortality in 84 905 matched pairs in Ontario (hazard ratio, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.07–1.62]). In Kaiser Permanente Northern California, follow-up testing was significantly associated with higher rates of hospitalization with acute kidney injury (hazard ratio, 1.66 [95% CI, 1.10–2.22]) and hyperkalemia (hazard ratio, 3.36 [95% CI, 1.08–10.41]), as was observed in Ontario. The risk score for abnormal potassium provided good discrimination (area under the curve [AUC], 0.75) and excellent calibration of predicted risks, while the risk score for abnormal serum creatinine provided moderate discrimination (AUC, 0.62) but excellent calibration.

Conclusions:

Routine laboratory monitoring after ACE inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker initiation was not associated with a lower risk of 30-day mortality. We identified patient subgroups in which targeted testing may be effective in identifying therapy-related changes in serum potassium or kidney function.
Past Sodium Intake, Contemporary Sodium Intake, and Cardiometabolic Health in Southwest Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Naser Abu Mohd , Rahman Mahbubur , Unicomb Leanne , Doza Solaiman , Selim Shahjada , Chaity Monjila , Luby Stephen P. , Anand Shuchi , Staimez Lisa , Clasen Thomas F. , Gujral Unjali P. , Gribble Matthew O. , Narayan K. M. Venkat
Published: September 2020

Background

We compared the relationship of past and contemporary sodium (Na) intake with cardiometabolic biomarkers.

Methods and Results

A total of 1191 participants' data from a randomized controlled trial in coastal Bangladesh were analyzed. Participants provided 24‐hour urine Na (24UNa) data for 5 monthly visits. Their fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein, blood pressure, and 24‐hour urine protein were measured at the fifth visit. Participants' mean 24UNa over the first 4 visits was the past Na, and 24UNa of the fifth visit was the contemporary Na intake. We estimated the prevalence ratios of elevated cardiometabolic biomarkers and metabolic syndrome across 24UNa tertiles by multilevel logistic regression using participant‐, household‐, and community‐level random intercepts. Models were adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, sleep hours, religion, and household wealth. Compared with participants in tertile 1 of past urine Na, those in tertile 3 had 1.46 (95% CI, 1.08–1.99) times higher prevalence of prediabetes or diabetes mellitus, 5.49 (95% CI, 2.73–11.01) times higher prevalence of large waist circumference, and 1.60 (95% CI, 1.04–2.46) times higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Compared with participants in tertile 1 of contemporary urine Na, those in tertile 3 had 1.93 (95% CI, 1.24–3.00) times higher prevalence of prediabetes or diabetes mellitus, 3.14 (95% CI, 1.45–6.83) times higher prevalence of proteinuria, and 2.23 (95% CI, 1.34–3.71) times higher prevalence of large waist circumference.

Conclusions

Both past and contemporary Na intakes were associated with higher cardiometabolic disease risk.
Dysregulation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Does Not Depend on Hemodynamic Alterations in Bicuspid Aortic Valve Aortopathy
Authors: Gauer Simon , Balint Brittany , Kollmann Catherine , Federspiel Jan M. , Henn Dominic , Bandner‐Risch Doris , Schmied Wolfram , Schäfers Hans‐Joachim
Published: September 2020

Background

Bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs) predispose to ascending aortic aneurysm. Turbulent blood flow and genetic factors have been proposed as underlying mechanisms. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) has been implicated in BAV aortopathy, and its expression is regulated by wall shear stress. We hypothesized that if turbulent flow induces aneurysm formation in patients with a BAV, regional differences in eNOS expression would be observed in BAVs.

Methods and Results

Ascending aortic specimens were harvested intraoperatively from 48 patients with tricuspid aortic valve (19 dilated, 29 nondilated) and 38 with BAV (28 dilated, 10 nondilated) undergoing cardiac surgery. eNOS mRNA and protein concentration were analyzed at the convex and concave aortic wall. In nondilated aortas, eNOS mRNA and protein concentration were decreased in BAV compared with tricuspid aortic valve (all
P
<0.05). eNOS expression was increased in association with dilation in BAV aortas (
P
=0.03), but not in tricuspid aortic valve aortas (
P
=0.63). There were no regional differences in eNOS mRNA or protein concentration in BAV aortas (all
P
>0.05). However, eNOS expression was increased at the concave wall (versus convexity) in tricuspid aortic valve dilated aortas (all
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

Dysregulated eNOS occurs independent of dilation in BAV aortas, suggesting a potential role for aberrantly regulated eNOS expression in the development of BAV‐associated aneurysms. The absence of regional variations of eNOS expression suggests that eNOS dysregulation in BAV aortas is the result of underlying genetic factors associated with BAV disease, rather than changes stimulated by hemodynamic alterations. These findings provide insight into the underlying mechanisms of aortic dilation in patients with a BAV.
Suppression of the soybean cyst nematode, Heterodera glycines, by short-term field cultivation and soil incorporation of mung bean
Authors: Chikamatsu Seiya , Takeda Ai , Ohta Kazuhiro , Imura Takeo , Perry Roland N. , Toyota Koki
Published: September 2020

Our previous study using pots reported that short-term growth of mung bean (Vigna radiata) may be useful to decrease the density of the soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines, in soil. The objective of this study was to determine whether short-term growth of mung bean and its incorporation by ploughing decreased SCN density in infested fields. Firstly, we did pot experiments to evaluate the optimum temperature and moisture for hatching in soil. SCN hatching was stimulated at 25 and 30°C and not at 20°C; however, it was stimulated at alternating temperature conditions between 20 and 25°C. Soil moisture levels with pF 2.76 or less were required to stimulate SCN hatch in soil. Field experiments were done in Saitama, Kanagawa and Nara Prefectures, Japan. SCN density was reduced by nearly half even in control plots, in which mung bean was not cultivated and ploughed, in Saitama and Nara Prefectures. However, SCN density was reduced by nearly 80% or more in the three Prefectures, except for one plot in Kanagawa, and the soil temperature and moisture conditions were kept at around 20-30°C and at <pF 2.8. Increase in yield of green soybean by SCN control was estimated at 350 kg (1000 m)−2. Overall, the present study revealed that short-term field cultivation of mung bean and ploughing was a profitable method to decrease SCN density in infested fields and thereby to increase yield of green soybean.
Ultrastructural observations of spermatogenesis in the fungivorous nematode Paraphelenchus myceliophthorus Goodey, 1958 (Rhabditida: Aphelenchoidea, Aphelenchidae)
Authors: Yushin Vladimir V. , Ryss Alexander
Published: September 2020

Spermatogenesis in Paraphelenchus myceliophthorus is similar to that of the ‘rhabditid’ nematodes. The sperm development includes formation of complexes of fibrous bodies (FB) and membranous organelles (MO), which appear in spermatocytes; the complexes dissociate in the spermatids and the immature sperm contains separate FB and MO. Mature spermatozoa from the uterus are bipolar cells subdivided into anterior pseudopod and posterior main cell body containing a nucleus without a nuclear envelope, numerous mitochondria and peripheral MO opening to the exterior via pores. The mature spermatozoa in the uterus form chains of more than ten flattened cells. Spermatogenesis characters, such as nuclear satellites, presence of FB in immature spermatozoa, small knobbles of MO, specific dense inclusions, absence of filopodia and sperm conjugation, make spermatozoa of P. myceliophthorus morphologically specific for comparative analysis with representatives of Aphelenchoidea and other rhabditids.
Three new species of abdominal shrimp parasites (Crustacea: Isopoda: Bopyridae: Hemiarthrinae) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: AN JIANMEI , CHEN RURU , PAULAY GUSTAV
Published: September 2020

Three new species of the parasitic isopod subfamily Hemiarthrinae Markham, 1972 are described. Allodiplophryxus unilateralis n. sp. is described from Western Australia, infesting the palaemonid shrimp Jocaste lucina (Nobili, 1901), and females differ from the only other species in the genus in possessing six pleomeres, an asymmetrical first oostegite and pleopods restricted to the short side of the body. Loki athanus n. sp. is described from Madagascar, infesting the alpheid shrimp Athanas parvus de Man, 1910, and females differ from the only other species in the genus in possessing well-developed lateral plates on pleomere 4 and four pairs of uniramous pleopods. Hemiarthrus alphei n. sp. is described from French Polynesia, infesting the alpheid shrimp Alpheus crinitus Dana, 1852, and females differ from the four other known Hemiarthrus species in having pleomeres with well-developed, symmetrical lateral plates, a barbula with three pairs of projections and a pointed pleotelson. Keys to species of Hemiarthrus and all genera of the Hemiarthrinae are presented.
Moth flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) living in the dark of caves in the Dinaric Karst
Authors: WAGNER RÜDIGER , RADA TONĆI
Published: September 2020

Seoda cavernicola sp. nov. and Psychoda glamocensis sp. nov., are new species and cave dwellers from Bosnia and Hercegovina, and Croatia. Adults of S. cavernicola are pale and small; the eye bridge is reduced, ommatidia irregularly arranged, epandrium with a pair of setose excrescences. The eye bridge of P. glamocensis is likewise reduced with 2 or 3 irregularly ordered facet rows, palpus segments of some individuals are malformed; its closest relative is Psychoda alticola Vaillant based on the morphology of male and female genitalia as well as on COI barcodes.
Risk of Occurrence of Water Deficit in Soybean Cultivated in Lowland Soils
Authors: Bortoluzzi Mateus Possebon , Heldwein Arno Bernardo , Trentin Roberto , Maldaner Ivan Carlos , Rosa da Silva Jocélia
Published: September 2020

The occurrence of water deficit is intensified in lowland soils. Generating information with regard to its risk of occurrence is essential to avoid seed yield losses. The objective of this study was to determine the probability of water deficit in soybean cultivated in lowlands of the Vacacaí and Piratini River basins in the southern portion of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil as a function of the sowing date. Soybean development was simulated considering three sets of cultivars of relative maturity groups (RMG) delimited by 5.9–6.8, 6.9–7.3, and 7.4–8.0, with a 10-day interval between the sowing dates making up the period between 21 September and 31 December. Daily meteorological data were used from 1971 to 2017 obtained from the Pelotas meteorological station and from 1968 to 2017 from the Santa Maria meteorological station. Water deficit (mm) in the subperiods and soybean development cycle was obtained from the calculation of evapotranspiration and daily sequential crop water balance. Data of water deficit were subjected to a probability distribution analysis, in which the exponential, gamma, lognormal, normal, and Weibull probability density function (pdf) adjustments were tested using chi-square and Kolmogorov–Smirnov adhesion tests, with a 10% significance level. The water deficit is lower in the Pelotas region than in Santa Maria. Sowings performed from 11 and 1 November present the lowest risk of occurrence of water deficit throughout the soybean cycle in Santa Maria and Pelotas, respectively. Risk of water deficit decreases for the beginning of flowering–beginning of seed (R1–R5) subperiod when soybean sowing occurs from the beginning of November.
Updraft Vertical Velocity Observations and Uncertainties in High Plains Supercells Using Radiosondes and Radars
Authors: Marinescu Peter J. , Kennedy Patrick C. , Bell Michael M. , Drager Aryeh J. , Grant Leah D. , Freeman Sean W. , van den Heever Susan C.
Published: September 2020

Observations of the air vertical velocities (wair) in supercell updrafts are presented, including uncertainty estimates, from radiosonde GPS measurements in two supercells. These in situ observations were collected during the Colorado State University Convective Cloud Outflows and Updrafts Experiment (C3LOUD-Ex) in moderately unstable environments in Colorado and Wyoming. Based on the radiosonde accelerations, instances when the radiosonde balloon likely bursts within the updraft are determined, and adjustments are made to account for the subsequent reduction in radiosonde buoyancy. Before and after these adjustments, the maximum estimated wair values are 36.2 and 49.9 m s−1, respectively. Radar data are used to contextualize the in situ observations and suggest that most of the radiosonde observations were located several kilometers away from the most intense vertical motions. Therefore, the radiosonde-based wair values presented likely underestimate the maximum values within these storms due to these sampling biases, as well as the impacts from hydrometeors, which are not accounted for. When possible, radiosonde-based wair values were compared to estimates from dual-Doppler methods and from parcel theory. When the radiosondes observed their highest wair values, dual-Doppler methods generally produced 15–20 m s−1 lower wair for the same location, which could be related to the differences in the observing systems’ resolutions. In situ observations within supercell updrafts, which have been limited in recent decades, can be used to improve our understanding and modeling of storm dynamics. This study provides new in situ observations, as well as methods and lessons that could be applied to future field campaigns.
Understanding Error Distributions of Hurricane Intensity Forecasts during Rapid Intensity Changes
Authors: Trabing Benjamin C. , Bell Michael M.
Published: September 2020

The characteristics of official National Hurricane Center (NHC) intensity forecast errors are examined for the North Atlantic and east Pacific basins from 1989 to 2018. It is shown how rapid intensification (RI) and rapid weakening (RW) influence yearly NHC forecast errors for forecasts between 12 and 48 h in length. In addition to being the tail of the intensity change distribution, RI and RW are at the tails of the forecast error distribution. Yearly mean absolute forecast errors are positively correlated with the yearly number of RI/RW occurrences and explain roughly 20% of the variance in the Atlantic and 30% in the east Pacific. The higher occurrence of RI events in the east Pacific contributes to larger intensity forecast errors overall but also a better probability of detection and success ratio. Statistically significant improvements to 24-h RI forecast biases have been made in the east Pacific and to 24-h RW biases in the Atlantic. Over-ocean 24-h RW events cause larger mean errors in the east Pacific that have not improved with time. Environmental predictors from the Statistical Hurricane Intensity Prediction Scheme (SHIPS) are used to diagnose what conditions lead to the largest RI and RW forecast errors on average. The forecast error distributions widen for both RI and RW when tropical systems experience low vertical wind shear, warm sea surface temperature, and moderate low-level relative humidity. Consistent with existing literature, the forecast error distributions suggest that improvements to our observational capabilities, understanding, and prediction of inner-core processes is paramount to both RI and RW prediction.
The Sexual Victimization of College Students: A Test of Routine Activity Theory
Authors: Hayes Brittany E. , O’Neal Eryn Nicole , Hernandez Cristal N.
Published: September 2020

This study examines the applicability of theoretically-relevant routine activity variables to understand the risk of sexual victimization among college students. Analyses assess if routine activity-related variables have similar explanatory power for rape and sexual assault. Indicators of “proximity to motivated offenders” and “exposure to crime” were associated with rape. Indicators related to “proximity to motivated offenders,” “exposure to crime,” and “target attractiveness” were associated with sexual assault. Indicators capturing “guardianship” were not associated with either rape or sexual assault. Theoretical implications and directions for future research are discussed. Specifically, it is possible to theory-test using campus climate survey instruments.
Design of Paper-Based Visual Analogue Scale Items
Authors: Weigl Klemens , Forstner Thomas
Published: September 2020

Paper-based visual analogue scale (VAS) items were developed 100 years ago. Although they gained great popularity in clinical and medical research for assessing pain, they have been scarcely applied in other areas of psychological research for several decades. However, since the beginning of digitization, VAS have attracted growing interest among researchers for carrying out computerized and paper-based data assessments. In the present study, we investigated the research question “Which different design characteristics of paper-based VAS items are preferred by women and men?” Based on a sample of 115 participants (68 female), our results revealed that the respondents preferred a paper-based VAS item with a horizontal, 8-cm long, 3 DTP (“desktop publishing point”) wide, black line, with flat line endpoints, and the ascending numerical anchors “0” and “10”, both for women and men. Although we did not identify any gender difference in these characteristics, our findings uncovered clear preferences on how to design paper-based VAS items.
Predictor-based fractional disturbance rejection control for LTI fractional-order systems with input delay
Authors: Pourali Sajad , Mojallali Hamed
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a predictor-based fractional disturbance rejection control (PFDRC) scheme is proposed for processes subject to input delay. The proposed scheme can be generally applied to open-loop stable, integrative, and unstable integer-order processes, but it can be particularly utilized for open-loop stable fractional-order systems. A closed-loop reference model is formulated based on Bode’s ideal transfer function. The primary control design objective is to enable the output of input-delay process to follow the closed-loop reference model. Towards this end, the closed-loop transfer function of the PFDRC must take the same structure as that of the reference model. Meanwhile, the adverse effects of the input delay must be mitigated. To meet the latter, a filtered Smith predictor (FSP) is employed to provide a prediction of delay-less output response. To address the former, process dynamics are treated as a common disturbance; then, a fractional-order extended state observer (FESO) is introduced to estimate the delay-less output response and also the total disturbance (i.e. external disturbance and system uncertainties). The PFDRC feedback controller is easily derived by the gain crossover frequency of Bode’s ideal transfer function which facilitates the tuning process. The convergence analysis of the FESO is carried out in terms of BIBO stability. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified through three illustrative examples from the literature.
A Clarification of Slope and Scale
Authors: Kinney Chad E. L.
Published: September 2020

Improvements in the quantification and visual analysis of data, plotted across non-standardized graphs, are possible with the equations introduced in this paper. Equation 1 (an expression of graphic scale variability) forms part of the foundation for Equation 2 (an expansion on the traditional calculation of the tangent inverse of a line’s algebraic slope). These equations provide clarification regarding aspects of “slope” and graphic scaling that have previously confused mathematicians. The apparent lack of correspondence between geometric slope (the angle of inclination) and algebraic slope (the m in y = mx + b) on “non-homogeneous” graphs (graphs where the scale values/distances on the y-axis are not the same as on the x-axis) is identified and directly resolved. This is important because nearly all behavior analytic graphs are “non-homogeneous” and problems with consistent visual inspection of such graphs have yet to be fully resolved. This paper shows how the precise geometric slope for any trend line on any non-homogeneous graph can quickly be determined—potentially improving the quantification and visual analysis of treatment effects in terms of the amount/magnitude of change in slope/variability. The equations herein may also be used to mathematically control for variability inherent in a graph’s idiosyncratic construction, and thus facilitate valid comparison of data plotted on various non-standard graphs constructed with very different axes scales—both within and across single case design research studies. The implications for future research and the potential for improving effect size measures and meta-analyses in single-subject research are discussed.
Cross-Cultural Comparisons in Implicit and Explicit Age Bias
Authors: Ackerman Lindsay S. , Chopik William J.
Published: September 2020

Most research documenting bias against older adults has been conducted in individualistic and industrialized cultures. In the current study, we examined cultural variation in attitudes toward older adults and subjective age in a large sample of 911,982 participants ( Mage = 27.42, SD = 12.23; 67.6% women) from 68 different countries ( Msize = 12,077; Mdnsize = 425.5). We hypothesized that age bias would be lower among those living in highly collectivistic countries. We found that living in collectivistic countries was associated with less implicit and explicit age bias, and greater feelings of warmth toward older adults compared with highly individualistic countries. Given the impact of age bias and prejudice on both the targets and perpetrators of bias, further research is needed to examine the causes of and interventions for bias against older adults.
Pull Factors and Migration Preferences: Evidence from the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Ferwerda Jeremy , Gest Justin
Published: September 2020

Which national characteristics do voluntary migrants prioritize when considering destinations? Although this question is salient for policymakers, extant studies face challenges when seeking to identify how various pull factors shape destination preferences. Surveys of migrants are typically conducted after they arrive, introducing selection bias and post-hoc reasoning. Moreover, desirable national characteristics tend to co-vary, implying that observed relationships with migration flows may be confounded. In this article, we identify the destination preferences of prospective migrants by drawing on a sample of 8,500 respondents from five sending states across the Middle East and North Africa. Prospective migrants completed a series of conjoint survey tasks in which they chose between two destinations with randomly varying characteristics. The results reveal a clear hierarchy of preferences, with prospective migrants placing the greatest priority on liberal democratic governance and employment prospects. The availability of welfare benefits acted as a secondary consideration, while geographic distance and co-ethnic stock did not strongly predict initial destination preferences. While the rank order of these considerations remains consistent across national samples, our results suggest that respondents from different economic and political backgrounds vary in how they navigate potential tradeoffs between national characteristics. These findings address post-arrival bias in extant studies by revealing prospective migrants’ preferences before they interact with the opportunity structures that facilitate and restrict entry into desirable destinations.
Applied Information Technology: From Data Processing to Strategic Information Systems
Authors: Somogyi Elisabeth K. , Galliers Robert D.
Published: September 2020

This paper provides a brief historical overview of developments in the application of information technology. It highlights the key turning points and examines how the role of information systems has changed during the brief history of this new technology.
A Manufacturing Systems Engineering View of IT Research and Development
Authors: Dale M.W.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a manufacturing systems engineering view of important issues relating to IT research and development. It argues for an approach to the next phase of information technology development which is heavily based on real-world applications with the dominant influences held by educated users and engineers who have added computing skills, rather than information technologists. It argues for ‘consolidation’ with particular attention to total systems integration and an emphasis on the need to professionally engineer the human interface.
Legal Aspects of Knowledge-Based Technology
Authors: Clarke Roger
Published: September 2020

A definition of knowledge-based technology (KBT) is provided which is more operational than conventional definitions of the term ‘expert systems’. Ownership rights in products developed using KBT are considered and difficulties discussed. Legal liabilities which may arise from such products are considered and issues identified. It is concluded that commercial exploitation of KBT may be hindered by these legal difficulties. Some policy implications are identified.
Effectiveness and Competition – Linking Business Strategy, Organizational Culture and the Use of Information Technology
Authors: Sutherland Ewan , Morieux Yves
Published: September 2020

The relationships between business strategy, organizational culture and the use of information technology are examined in order to see how overall organizational effectiveness and competitiveness are affected. The interference between these and the limits each imposes on the other are identified.
The Role of Management Accountants in Information Strategy
Authors: Kaye G Roland
Published: September 2020

This paper is concerned with the emerging role of management accountants in the formulation, development and implementation of information strategies within organizations. The paper is both empirical in that it is based on survey data and theoretical as it postulates future developments.

The essence of the argument is that management accountants have adapted to information technology and have been active in exploiting data processing systems since their inception. This experience and knowledge of the technology alongside their managerial abilities form powerful tools to enable their participation in developing information strategies. The development of an information strategy enables the matching of technology, information content and managerial activity to achieving the overall business strategy in the face of uncertainty. This clearly follows the proposal of accounting process to manage environmental uncertainty reflecting Lorange and Scott-Morton (1974), Hedberg and Jonsson (1978), Hedberg al. (1976) and Earl (1983).
A Systematic Approach to Industrial Technology Transfer: A Conceptual Framework and a Proposed Methodology
Authors: Gaultney Larry D. , Skibniewski Miroslaw J. , Salvendy Gavriel
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a new concept of modelling successful transfers of technological innovations across the boundaries of traditionally defined areas of industry. A summary review of work in the related topics is conducted. The proposed model of technological transfer includes a provision for the development of a new taxonomy of work tasks targeted for technology applications. The model also incorporates a matrix framework for representing a match between the generic components of work tasks, typical engineering projects, generic components of technology, and specific self-contained technologies. A validation procedure for application within an industry targeted for technology transfer is outlined.
The Systems Implications of Fourth Generation Languages
Authors: Crinnion John
Published: September 2020

This paper discusses the need for changes in the generally accepted systems development methodologies in the light of the increased use of fourth generation languages and their associated techniques. It puts forward the opinion that an evolutionary development approach is the best way of obtaining the advantages of prototyping techniques, while at the same time retaining the benefits of a structured systems analysis and design methodology. The paper goes on to describe what is meant by an evolutionary development methodology, and identifies seven essential ingredients which must be present in such a methodology if the full potential of fourth generation advances are to be realized.
Structure and performance of poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene succinate-co-L-lactate) blend reinforced with rice husk and coconut shell filler
Authors: Akindoyo John Olabode , Husney Nur Atikah Aliah binti , Ismail Nurul Hidayah , Mariatti Mustapha
Published: September 2020

Reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene succinate- co-L-lactate) (PBSL) blend was prepared. Two different fillers namely coconut shell (CS) and rice husk (RH) were used as reinforcement for the PLA-PBSL blend at different filler content (0–10 wt%) and their effects on the blend was investigated. Tensile test results showed that 7.5 wt% filler is the optimum filler loading for both filler types. The comparative performance of composites prepared using the optimum filler loading was further investigated. At the same filler loading, CS performs better than RH in terms of strength, crystallization, and water absorption properties of the blends. Specifically, the tensile strength of CS reinforced blend increased by 195% compared to RH (145%). Likewise, the CS blend has a crystallinity index ( XDSC) of 52% compared to 45% of RH which aligns with observations from the X-ray diffraction analysis. However, thermogravimetric analysis revealed that RH reinforced blend is more thermally stable than CS reinforced blends. This study reveals that the two fillers can desirably enhance the performance of PLA/PBSL blends, especially to produce environmentally friendly products. However, CS could offer better performance over RH especially where better mechanical strength, improved crystallization and low water absorption are desired.
Disparities in the use of regular pap smears among migrant and non-migrant women in Austria: A population-based survey of 7633 women
Authors: Brzoska Patrick , Aksakal Tugba , Yilmaz-Aslan Yüce
Published: September 2020

Objective:

Regular pap smears are effective in reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality. Migrant women have been reported to utilize cervical cancer screening less often than non-migrant women. However, inconsistent results, e.g. from Germany, have also been reported. This study examines disparities in the use of annual pap smears among 20–69 year old migrant and non-migrant women in neighboring Austria.

Method:

Data from a nationwide population-based survey of 7633 women is used of whom 504 (6.6%) were migrants from European Union countries and 251 (3.3%) were migrants from non-European Union countries. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to account for socio economic and health differences between the three population groups.

Results:

The study shows that as compared to the non-migrant women, migrant women from European Union and non-European Union countries were at lower odds of having received a pap smear in the last 12 months (adjusted odds ratio  = 0.80, 95% confidence interval = 0.66–0.96 and adjusted odds ratio = 0.74, 95%-confidence interval = 0.57–0.97, respectively). Disparities were similar with respect to utilization in the last 36 months (adjusted odds ratio = 0.60, 95% confidence interval = 0.46–0.77 and adjusted odds ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence interval = 0.40–0.82, respectively).

Conclusion:

The findings are in agreement with research from the majority of other countries. They suggest barriers that migrants encounter in the health system and highlight the need for diversity-sensitive health care strategies.
Voluntary assisted dying in Victoria: Why knowing the law matters to nurses
Authors: Hewitt Jayne , White Ben , Villar Katrine Del , Willmott Lindy , Greaves Laura Ley , Meehan Rebecca
Published: September 2020

In 2017, Victoria became the first state in Australia to pass legislation permitting voluntary assisted dying. Under this law, only those people who are near the end of their lives may access voluntary assisted dying, and because many of these people require nursing care to manage the progression of their illness or their symptoms, it will invariably have an impact on nursing practice. The Victorian law includes a series of procedural steps as safeguards to ensure that the law operates as intended. To support people who choose voluntary assisted dying and to practice safely within boundaries of the law, nurses must be aware of these requirements and how they operate. However, there are often gaps in nurses’ legal knowledge. This was demonstrated in an article that aimed to inform nurses about the operation of Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017 (Vic) but contained several errors and misstatements of the law. Our article corrects these errors and discusses how the law is intended to be applied by revisiting the fictional case of Chloe – a woman with a terminal illness who is seeking voluntary assisted dying. As the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2017 (Vic) also protects nurses from liability if they act in accordance with its provisions, we conclude that sound knowledge and understanding of its operation support nurses to provide the safe, comprehensive and compassionate care their patients deserve at the end of life.
Axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum extract induces cell cycle arrest and differentiation in human acute myeloid leukemia HL-60 cells
Authors: Suleiman Sherif , Di Fiore Riccardo , Cassar Analisse , Formosa Melissa Marie , Schembri-Wismayer Pierre , Calleja-Agius Jean
Published: September 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults, constituting about 80% of cases. Although remarkable progress has been made in the therapeutic scenario for patients with acute myeloid leukemia, research and development of new and effective anticancer agents to improve patient outcome and minimize toxicity is needed. In this study, the antitumor activity of axolotl (AXO) Ambystoma mexicanum crude extract was assessed in vitro on the human acute myeloid leukemia HL-60 cell line. The anticancer activity was evaluated in terms of ability to influence proliferative activity, cell viability, cell cycle arrest, and differentiation. Moreover, gene expression analysis was performed to evaluate the genes involved in the regulation of these processes. The AXO crude extract exhibited antiproliferative but not cytotoxic activities on HL-60 cells, with cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, the AXO-treated HL-60 cells showed an increase in both the percentage of nitroblue tetrazolium positive cells and the expression of CD11b, whereas the proportion of CD14-positive cells did not change, suggesting that extract is able to induce differentiation toward the granulocytic lineage. Finally, the treatment with AXO extract caused upregulation of CEBPA, CEBPB, CEBPE, SPI1, CDKN1A, and CDKN2C, and downregulation of c-MYC. Our data clearly show the potential anticancer activity of Ambystoma mexicanum on HL-60 cells and suggest that it could help develop promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.
Metastatic renal interstitial cell tumor in a dog
Authors: Rissi Daniel R. , Dill-Okubo Jennifer A.
Published: September 2020

Renal interstitial cell tumor (RICT) is a rare renal sarcoma of dogs that arises from renal interstitial cells. Herein we describe a RICT in an 8-y-old female Labrador Retriever dog that died after a 2-d history of lethargy and disorientation. Grossly, soft white nodules of 1–10 mm diameter were present in the renal cortex and corticomedullary junction of both kidneys, left cardiac ventricular wall, and right cerebral hemisphere. A pale-white to yellow, firm, irregular mass effaced 80% of the right pulmonary parenchyma, involving mainly the cranial and middle lobes, and the adjacent tracheobronchial lymph nodes. Histologically, the renal, myocardial, and cerebral neoplasm consisted of interlacing bundles of stellate-to-spindle cells with eosinophilic vacuolated cytoplasm and round-to-oval nuclei with finely stippled chromatin. The mitotic count was 28 per 2.37 mm2. Alcian blue stain revealed an extracellular myxomatous matrix throughout the neoplasm. Neoplastic cells had cytoplasmic immunolabeling for vimentin and cyclooxygenase 2. The pulmonary and tracheobronchial neoplasm consisted of infiltrative nodules of cuboidal epithelial cells that had a moderate amount of eosinophilic cytoplasm and round nuclei with coarsely stippled chromatin. There were 5 mitoses per 2.37 mm2. Neoplastic cells had cytoplasmic and nuclear immunolabeling for cytokeratin AE1/AE3 and thyroid transcription factor 1, respectively. Morphologic and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with a RICT with cardiac and cerebral metastases, and a pulmonary carcinoma with tracheobronchial lymph node metastasis.