bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface characterization of poly-2-vinylpyridine—A polymer for area selective deposition techniques
Authors: Snelgrove Matthew , Zehe Clara , Lundy Ross , Yadav Pravind , Rueff Jean-Pascal , O’Connor Robert , Bogan Justin , Hughes Greg , McGlynn Enda , Morris Michael , Mani-Gonzalez Pierre Giovanni
Published: August 2019

Thin films of OH terminated poly-2-vinylpyridine (P2VP), a polymer with potential for infiltration mediated thin film deposition, area selective deposition (ASD), and small feature size development via block copolymer (BCP) self-assembly, have been studied with hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. From the N 1s and C 1s core level spectra, accurate values for the binding energy positions of the species present in the films were obtained, providing clear evidence for signals associated with pyridine bonds. The aromatic ring on the P2VP side chain is clearly identified in the studied core levels. These observations allow for a complete understanding of the chemical environment of the polymer and provide evidence of the potential reactions that can occur with metal diffusion into P2VP. Transmission electron microscopy, attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy measurements reveal high quality films, and this work provides a reference base for this functional material in terms of its utility for ASD, BCP, and subsequent atomic layer deposition based polymer infiltration processes.
CYP2D6
Polymorphisms and the Safety and Gametocytocidal Activity of Single-Dose Primaquine for Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Pett Helmi , Bradley John , Okebe Joseph , Dicko Alassane , Tiono Alfred B. , Gonçalves Bronner P. , Stone Will , Chen Ingrid , Lanke Kjerstin , Neuvonen Mikko , Mustaniemi Anna-Liina , Eziefula Alice C. , Gosling Roly , D’Alessandro Umberto , Drakeley Chris , Niemi Mikko , Bousema Teun
Published: August 2019

Single-dose primaquine (PQ) clears mature gametocytes and reduces the transmission of
Plasmodium falciparum
after artemisinin combination therapy. Genetic variation in
CYP2D6
, the gene producing the drug-metabolizing enzyme cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6), influences plasma concentrations of PQ and its metabolites and is associated with PQ treatment failure in
Plasmodium vivax
malaria.
Cinnamaldehyde Induces Expression of Efflux Pumps and Multidrug Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Tetard Alexandre , Zedet Andy , Girard Corine , Plésiat Patrick , Llanes Catherine
Published: August 2019

Essential oils or their components are increasingly used to fight bacterial infections. Cinnamaldehyde (CNA), the main constituent of cinnamon bark oil, has demonstrated interesting properties
in vitro
against various pathogens, including
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms and possible therapeutic consequences of
P. aeruginosa
adaptation to CNA.
An NADH-Dependent Reductase from Eubacterium ramulus Catalyzes the Stereospecific Heteroring Cleavage of Flavanones and Flavanonols
Authors: Braune Annett , Gütschow Michael , Blaut Michael
Published: August 2019

Gut bacteria play a crucial role in the metabolism of dietary flavonoids, thereby contributing to their activation or inactivation after ingestion by the human host. Thus, bacterial activities in the intestine may influence the beneficial health effects of these polyphenolic plant compounds. While an increasing number of flavonoid-converting gut bacterial species have been identified, knowledge of the responsible enzymes is still limited. Here, we characterized Fcr as a key enzyme involved in the conversion of flavonoids of several subclasses by
Eubacterium ramulus
, a prevalent human gut bacterium. Sequence similarity of this enzyme to hypothetical proteins from other flavonoid-degrading intestinal bacteria in databases suggests a more widespread occurrence of this enzyme. Functional characterization of gene products of human intestinal microbiota enables the assignment of metagenomic sequences to specific bacteria and, more importantly, to certain activities, which is a prerequisite for targeted modulation of gut microbial functionality.
Biocide-Tolerant Listeria monocytogenes Isolates from German Food Production Plants Do Not Show Cross-Resistance to Clinically Relevant Antibiotics
Authors: Roedel A. , Dieckmann R. , Brendebach H. , Hammerl J. A. , Kleta S. , Noll M. , Al Dahouk S. , Vincze S.
Published: August 2019

Foodborne pathogens such as
L. monocytogenes
can persist in food production environments for a long time, causing perennial outbreaks. Hence, bacterial pathogens are able to survive cleaning and disinfection procedures. Accordingly, they may be repeatedly exposed to sublethal concentrations of disinfectants, which might result in bacterial adaptation to these biocides. Furthermore, antibiotic coresistance and cross-resistance are known to evolve under biocide selection pressure
in vitro
. Hence, antimicrobial tolerance seems to play a crucial role in the resilience and persistence of foodborne pathogens in the food chain and might reduce therapeutic options in infectious diseases.
Cross-sectional study of association between psychosocial stressors with chronic kidney disease among migrant and non-migrant Ghanaians living in Europe and Ghana: the RODAM study
Authors: Adjei David Nana , Stronks Karien , Adu Dwomoa , Beune Erik , Meeks Karlijn , Smeeth Liam , Addo Juliet , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin , Mockenhaupt Frank , Schulze Matthias , Danquah Ina , Spranger Joachim , Bahendeka Silver Karaireho , Agyemang Charles
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The association between psychosocial stressors (PS) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) among sub-Saharan African (SSA) populations is unknown. We examined the association between PS and CKD prevalence among rural and urban Ghanaians and Ghanaian migrants living in three European cities. We also assessed if the influence of PS on CKD is partially mediated by primary risk factors (hypertension and diabetes) of CKD.

Design

A multi-centred cross sectional data from the Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants study.

Setting

Rural and urban Ghana and three European cities (Amsterdam, Berlin and London).

Participants

A random sample of 5659 adults (Europe 3167, rural Ghana 1043 and urban Ghana 1449) aged 25–70 years.

Explanatory measures

PS defined by negative life events, perceived discrimination, perceived stress at work/home and depressive symptoms. Three CKD outcomes were considered using the 2012 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes severity of CKD classification. Comparisons between PS and CKD outcomes were made using logistic regression analyses across all sites.

Results

We observed higher proportion of negative life events (68.7%) and perceived permanent stress (15.9%) among Ghanaians living in Ghana than Ghanaians living in Europe. Depressive symptoms (7.5%) and perceived discrimination (29.7%) were more common among Ghanaians living in Europe than Ghanaians living in Ghana. No significant association was observed between any of the PS constructs and CKD outcomes across sites except for positive association between stress at work/home and albuminuria (2.81, 95% CI 1.46 to 5.40) and CKD risk (2.78, 95% CI 1.43 to 5.43) among Ghanaians living in Berlin.

Conclusion

Our study found a positive association between stress at work/home and albuminuria and CKD risk. There was no convincing evidence of associations between the other PS constructs and the prevalence of CKD risk. Further studies are needed to identify potential factors driving the high prevalence of CKD among these populations.
Complex care for kids Ontario: protocol for a mixed-methods randomised controlled trial of a population-level care coordination initiative for children with medical complexity
Authors: Orkin Julia , Chan Carol Y , Fayed Nora , Lin Jia Lu Lilian , Major Nathalie , Lim Audrey , Peebles Erin R , Moretti Myla E , Soscia Joanna , Sultan Roxana , Willan Andrew R , Offringa Martin , Guttmann Astrid , Bartlett Leah , Kanani Ronik , Culbert Erin , Hardy-Brown Karolyn , Gordon Michelle , Perlmutar Marty , Cohen Eyal
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Technological and medical advances have led to a growing population of children with medical complexity (CMC) defined by substantial medical needs, healthcare utilisation and morbidity. These children are at a high risk of missed, fragmented and/or inappropriate care, and families bear extraordinary financial burden and stress. While small in number (<1% of children), this group uses ~1/3 of all child healthcare resources, and need coordinated care to optimise their health. Complex care for kids Ontario (CCKO) brings researchers, families and healthcare providers together to develop, implement and evaluate a population-level roll-out of care for CMC in Ontario, Canada through a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design. The intervention includes dedicated key workers and the utilisation of coordinated shared care plans.

Methods and analysis

Our primary objective is to evaluate the CCKO intervention using a randomised waitlist control design. The waitlist approach involves rolling out an intervention over time, whereby all participants are randomised into two groups (A and B) to receive the intervention at different time points determined at random. Baseline measurements are collected at month 0, and groups A and B are compared at months 6 and 12. The primary outcome is the family-prioritized Family Experiences with Coordination of Care (FECC) survey at 12 months. The FECC will be compared between groups using an analysis of covariance with the corresponding baseline score as the covariate. Secondary outcomes include reports of child and parent health outcomes, health system utilisation and process outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Research ethics approval has been obtained for this multicentre RCT. This trial will assess the effect of a large population-level complex care intervention to determine whether dedicated key workers and coordinated care plans have an impact on improving service delivery and quality of life for CMC and their families.

Trial registration number

NCT02928757.
Lumbar spine surgery across 15 years: trends, complications and reoperations in a longitudinal observational study from Norway
Authors: Grotle Margreth , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Fjeld Olaf , Grøvle Lars , Helgeland Jon , Storheim Kjersti , Solberg Tore K , Zwart John-Anker
Published: August 2019

Background

Studies from different Western countries have reported a rapid increase in spinal surgery rates, an increase that exceeds by far the growing incidence rates of spinal disorders in the general population. There are few studies covering all lumbar spine surgery and no previous studies from Norway.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate trends in all lumbar spine surgery in Norway over 15 years, including length of hospital stay, and rates of complications and reoperations.

Design

A longitudinal observational study over 15 years using hospital patient administrative data and sociodemographic data from the National Registry in Norway.

Setting and participants

Patients aged ≥18 years discharged from Norwegian public hospitals between 1999 and 2013.

Outcome measures

Annual rates of simple (microsurgical discectomy, decompression) and complex surgical procedures (fusion, disc prosthesis) in the lumbar spine.

Results

The rate of lumbar spine surgery increased by 54%, from 78 (95% CI (75 to 80)) to 120 (107 to 113) per 100 000, from 1999 to 2013. More men had simple surgery whereas more women had complex surgery. Among elderly people over 75 years, lumbar surgery increased by a factor of five during the 15-year period. The rates of complications were low, but increased from 0.7% in 1999 to 2.4% in 2013.

Conclusions

There was a substantial increase in lumbar spine surgery in Norway from 1999 to 2013, similar to trends in other Western world countries. The rise in lumbar surgery among elderly people represents a significant workload and challenge for health services, given our aging population.
Usability of existing alcohol survey data in South Africa: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Fontes Marx Mayara , London Leslie , Harker Burnhams Nadine , Ataguba John
Published: August 2019

Objective

This paper assesses the usability of existing alcohol survey data in South Africa (SA) by documenting the type of data available, identifying what possible analyses could be done using these existing datasets in SA and exploring limitations of the datasets.

Settings

A desktop review and in-depth semistructured interviews were used to identify existing alcohol surveys in SA and assess their usability.

Participants

We interviewed 10 key researchers in alcohol policies and health economics in SA (four women and six men). It consisted of academic/researchers (n=6), government officials (n=3) and the alcohol industry (n=1).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The desktop review examined datasets for the level of the data, geographical coverage, the population surveyed, year of data collection, available covariables, analyses possible and limitations of the data. The 10 in-depth interviews with key researchers explored informant’s perspective on the usability of existing alcohol datasets in SA.

Results

In SA, alcohol data constraints are mainly attributed to accessibility restrictions on survey data, limited geographical coverage, lack of systematic and standardised measurement of alcohol, infrequency of surveys and the lack of transparency and public availability of industry data on production, distribution and consumption.

Conclusion

The International Alcohol Control survey or a similar framework survey focusing on substance abuse should be considered for implementation at the national level. Also, alcohol research data funded by the taxpayers’ money and alcohol industry data should be made publicly available.
Do β-adrenoreceptor blocking drugs associate with reduced risk of symptomatic osteoarthritis and total joint replacement in the general population? A primary care-based, prospective cohort study using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Nakafero Georgina , Grainge Matthew , Valdes Ana , Townsend Nick , Mallen Christian , Zhang Weiya , Doherty Michael , Mamas Mamas A , Abhishek Abhishek
Published: August 2019

Introduction

To investigate if β-adrenoreceptor blocking drug (β-blocker) prescription reduces the risk of knee or hip osteoarthritis, total joint replacement and analgesic prescription.

Setting

Primary care.

Methods and analysis

This is a cohort study using data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Two separate analyses will be performed. Study 1 will be on the association between β-blocker prescription and incident knee/hip osteoarthritis. Inclusion criteria will be age ≥40 years. Exposed participants will be those with ≥2 continuous β-blocker prescriptions, and the index date will be the date of the first prescription of β-blocker. Unexposed participants will include up to four controls matched for age, sex, general practice surgery and propensity score for β-blocker prescription. Exclusion criteria will include contraindications to β-blockers, consultations for osteoarthritis or potent analgesic prescription before the index date. Outcomes will be knee osteoarthritis (primary outcome), hip osteoarthritis, knee pain and hip pain. Study 2 will be on the association between β-blocker prescription and total joint replacement and analgesic prescription in people with osteoarthritis. Inclusion criteria will be age ≥40 years, knee or hip osteoarthritis, and index date will be as in study 1. Unexposed participants will be as in study 1, additionally matched for consultation for knee or hip osteoarthritis prior to the index date. Exclusion criteria will include contraindications to β-blockers and osteoarthritis in other joints prior to the index date. Outcomes will be total knee replacement (primary outcome), total hip replacement and new analgesic prescription.

Statistical analysis

Kaplan-Meier curves will be plotted, and Cox proportional HRs and 95% CIs will be calculated. Stratified analysis will be performed by class of β-blocker, intrinsic sympathomimetic effect and indication(s) for prescription.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was ethically approved by the Independent Scientific Advisory Committee of the Medicines and Healthcare Authority (Ref 18_227R). The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.

This prospective cohort study will evaluate the analgesic potential of commonly used drugs for osteoarthritis pain.
Closing the gap: a transatlantic collaboration to foster quality improvement training in graduate entry medical students using applications of QI methodologies to medical education
Authors: Brown Allison , Sreenan Seamus , McGarvey Alice
Published: August 2019

The alarming prevalence of medical error and adverse events in the health system raises a call to action to ensure that doctors in training receive adequate training in quality improvement (QI). Training medical students in QI remains a challenge given time constraints, lack of clinical exposure, and already saturated curricula. In some instances, QI training may be delivered during clerkship through didactic, and in some instances, and experiential learning. Preclinical years of medical school remain focused on introducing students to scientific and clinical concepts, rarely do they learn about QI. The Program for Innovation in Scholarship and Medicine (PRISM) is a programme that introduces first-year medical students to the fundamentals of QI using their experience as a medical student as the context. PRISM is a condensed QI curriculum that is delivered through an international partnership, based on a previously piloted programme at a Canadian medical school. Following an introductory workshop, medical students work in teams to develop QI proposals (project charters) which detail how QI principles and tools can generate small-scale improvements within their educational programme. Project charters are assessed by a team of faculty and upper year students, who have previously participated. On completion of the programme, students demonstrated increased knowledge, skills, and attitudes towards QI. Programme participants were satisfied with the structure and expectations of PRISM and expressed a newfound interest in QI. Nearly all participants would recommend PRISM to another medical student. In conclusion, PRISM serves as a resourceful, efficient educational approach for preclerkship students that provides an introduction to the concepts of QI in order for early trainees to build on baseline knowledge and skills throughout their training.
Adeno-associated virus in the liver: natural history and consequences in tumour development
Authors: La Bella Tiziana , Imbeaud Sandrine , Peneau Camille , Mami Iadh , Datta Shalini , Bayard Quentin , Caruso Stefano , Hirsch Theo Z , Calderaro Julien , Morcrette Guillaume , Guettier Catherine , Paradis Valerie , Amaddeo Giuliana , Laurent Alexis , Possenti Laurent , Chiche Laurence , Bioulac-Sage Paulette , Blanc Jean-Frederic , Letouze Eric , Nault Jean-Charles , Zucman-Rossi Jessica
Published: August 2019

Objective

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a defective mono-stranded DNA virus, endemic in human population (35%–80%). Recurrent clonal AAV2 insertions are associated with the pathogenesis of rare human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) developed on normal liver. This study aimed to characterise the natural history of AAV infection in the liver and its consequence in tumour development.

Design

Viral DNA was quantified in tumour and non-tumour liver tissues of 1461 patients. Presence of episomal form and viral mRNA expression were analysed using a DNAse/TaqMan-based assay and quantitative RT-PCR. In silico analyses using viral capture data explored viral variants and new clonal insertions.

Results

AAV DNA was detected in 21% of the patients, including 8% of the tumour tissues, equally distributed in two major viral subtypes: one similar to AAV2, the other hybrid between AAV2 and AAV13 sequences. Episomal viral forms were found in 4% of the non-tumour tissues, frequently associated with viral RNA expression and human herpesvirus type 6, the candidate natural AAV helper virus. In 30 HCC, clonal AAV insertions were recurrently identified inCCNA2,CCNE1,TERT,TNFSF10,KMT2BandGLI1/INHBE. AAV insertion triggered oncogenic overexpression through multiple mechanisms that differ according to the localisation of the integration site.

Conclusion

We provided an integrated analysis of the wild-type AAV infection in the liver with the identification of viral genotypes, molecular forms, helper virus relationship and viral integrations. Clonal AAV insertions were positive selected during HCC development on non-cirrhotic liver challenging the notion of AAV as a non-pathogenic virus.
Subcategorisation of AUS/FLUS thyroid lesions as per the 2017 Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology: a retrospective study from a tertiary care centre analysing risk of malignancy (ROM) of the different subcategories
Authors: Guleria Prerna , Agarwal Shipra , Iyer Venkateswaran K , Jain Deepali , Mathur Sandeep R , Yadav Diksha
Published: August 2019

Aims

The 2017 Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) recommends subclassification of atypia of undetermined significance (AUS)/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS) into six subcategories. The present study evaluates the risk of malignancy (ROM) and risk of neoplasm (RON) among these.

Methods

All thyroid aspirates reported as AUS/FLUS over a 4.5-year period, with available histology, were reviewed and subclassified as per TBSRTC. ROM and RON were calculated and compared.

Results

Of 2554 thyroid aspirates, 281 (11.0%) were AUS/FLUS. Eighty-one with available histology were evaluated. ROM was 51.8%. Cytologic and architectural atypia (AUS-C&A) was the most prevalent (62.9%), followed by Hürthle cell type (19.6%), AUS-A (11.1%), AUS-not otherwise specified (NOS) (7.4%), cytologic atypia (AUS-C) (4.9%) and atypical lymphoid cells (1.2%). Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and adenomatous goitre (AG) were the most common histological diagnoses (27% each). On histology, AUS-C had 2/4 PTC and 2/4 AG on histology. AUS-A had 4/9 follicular neoplasm (FN) and 2/9 non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) while AUS C&A had 18/51 PTC, 13/51 AG, 11/51 NIFTP and 5/51 FN. ROM and RON were similar across subcategories, ROM was the highest for AUS-C&A (58.8%), AUS-C (50%) and AUS-NOS (50%). NIFTP reclassification as non-malignant reduced ROM to 35.8% (absolute reduction of 16% and a relative decrease of 31%) with the greatest relative decrease seen in AUS-A (50%), followed by AUS-C&A (37%), and none in others.

Conclusions

AUS/FLUS subcategorisation helped to indicate risk for the more likely neoplasm, whether PTC or FN. ROM was the highest for cases with cytological atypia but did not differ significantly across different subcategories. NIFTP changed the ROM of AUS-A and AUS-C&A, since both NIFTP and FN have microfollicles.
Perioperative duloxetine for acute postoperative analgesia: a meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Zorrilla-Vaca Andrés , Stone Alexander , Caballero-Lozada Andres Fabricio , Paredes Stephania , Grant Michael Conrad
Published: August 2019

Background

Multimodal analgesia is a fundamental part of modern surgery and enhanced recovery pathways. Duloxetine, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, has been validated for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain. The evidence for duloxetine as an adjunct for the treatment of acute postoperative pain remains controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of duloxetine in the acute perioperative setting.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in the major databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating duloxetine compared with placebo control for acute postoperative pain. The primary outcome was postoperative pain assessed at 2, 4, 6, 24 and 48 hours time frames. Secondary outcomes included postoperative opioid administration, as well as side effects, such as postoperative nausea/vomiting (PONV), pruritus, dizziness and headache.

Results

574 patients (n=9 RCTs) were included in the analysis, divided between duloxetine (n=285 patients) and placebo (n=289 patients). Duloxetine use was associated with a significant reduction in pain scores as early as 4 (mean difference (MD) −0.9, 95% CI −1.33 to −0.47) and as late as 48 (MD −0.94, 95% CI −1.56 to −0.33) hours postoperatively compared with placebo. In addition, duloxetine was associated with a significant reduction in opioid administration at 24 (standardized MD (SMD) −2.24, 95% CI −4.28 to −0.19) and 48 (SMD −2.21, 95% CI −4.13 to −0.28) hours as well as a significant reduction in PONV (risk ratio 0.69, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.95, p=0.03) compared with placebo. There was no difference between groups in other side effects.

Conclusion

Duloxetine, a non-opioid neuromodulator, may provide efficacy for the treatment of acute perioperative pain. Additional prospective studies are required to establish optimal perioperative dosing regimens, role in the setting of a comprehensive multimodal analgesic plan and impact on chronic postsurgical pain.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019121416
Removal of hexavalent chromium from water using hydrochar obtained with different types of feedstock
Authors: Iyer Arvind V. , Pensini Erica , Singh Ashutosh
Published: August 2019

Hydrochar (HC) was obtained through the hydrothermal digestion of beetroot, carrot, or spent coffee grounds. The yield (i.e., mass of HC produced per mass of feedstock used) was ≈80%, ≈20%, and ≈50% with spent coffee, carrot, and beetroot, respectively. The surface area determined with the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method was 3.06 m2·g–1 for HC from beetroot, 1.19 m2·g–1 for HC from carrot, 2.84 m2·g–1 for HC from dark roast coffee, and 3.22 m2·g–1 for HC from original roast coffee. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy experiments showed that amine groups had a significantly higher density in HC produced with spent coffee grounds than that produced using either beetroot or carrot. HC could sorb hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from water. The concentration of Cr(VI) in water decreased from 0.3 ppm to ≈0.07 ppm and to ≈0.1 ppm within 90 min using 20 g·L–1 of HC made from spent coffee grounds and from beetroot and carrot, respectively.
Coupling BEM and the Local Point Interpolation for the Solution of Anisotropic Elastic Nonlinear, Multi-Physics and Multi-Fields Problems
Authors: Njiwa Richard Kouitat , Pierson Gael , Voignier Arnaud
Published: August 2019

The pure boundary element method (BEM) is effective for the solution of a large class of problems. The main appeal of this BEM (reduction of the problem dimension by one) is tarnished to some extent when a fundamental solution to the governing equations does not exist as in the case of nonlinear problems. The easy to implement local point interpolation method applied to the strong form of differential equations is an attractive numerical approach. Its accuracy deteriorates in the presence of Neumann-type boundary conditions which are practically inevitable in solid mechanics. The main appeal of the BEM can be maintained by a judicious coupling of the pure BEM with the local point interpolation method. The resulting approach, named the LPI-BEM, seems versatile and effective. This is demonstrated by considering some linear and nonlinear elasticity problems including multi-physics and multi-field problems.
Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of an Electrostatically Actuated Cylindrical Micro-Beam Subjected to Cross Fluid Flow
Authors: Rezaee Mousa , Sharafkhani Naser
Published: August 2019

This work investigates the nonlinear dynamic behavior of an electrostatically actuated clamped–clamped cylindrical micro-beam subjected to vortex induced vibrations (VIV). Lift and drag forces are the two basic flow-induced factors affecting the dynamics of the micro-beam under fluid flow which are neglected in micro-structures immersed in stationary fluids. The electrostatically actuated micro-beam is modelled using Timoshenko beam theory and the impact of the fluid cross-flow is accounted for by considering its resultant force elements comprising inertia, lift and drag force vectors. In addition, the size dependency effect on the nonlinear dynamics of the micro-beam is studied based on the Modified Couple Stress Theory (MCST). The governing nonlinear equations are solved using the Galerkin and step-by-step linearization method to evaluate the response of the coupled structure to a combined voltage excitation plus fluid flow. Response of the micro-beam to different input voltages in the presence of fluid velocities are investigated and it is shown that the range and intensity of the lock-in regime is effectively controlled by the input voltage and fluid-to-beam density ratio.
Concentration of fibrin monomer in pregnancy and during the postpartum period
Authors: Kristoffersen Ann Helen , Petersen Per Hyltoft , Bjørge Line , Røraas Thomas , Sandberg Sverre
Published: August 2019

Background

D-dimer increases during pregnancy and is problematic to use in the diagnosis of venous thromboembolism. Fibrin monomer represents an alternative biomarker for venous thromboembolism. However, to be useful in pregnancy, the fibrin monomer concentration should be stable throughout pregnancy and during postpartum.

Methods

To describe the course of fibrin monomer concentration during pregnancy and the postpartum period in healthy pregnant women and to compare their within-subject biological variation (CVI) with non-pregnant women. Blood samples were obtained every fourth week during pregnancy and three samples after delivery in 20 healthy women and every fourth week during a 40-week period in 19 healthy non-pregnant women. Fibrin monomer (STA Liatest FM, Stago) was analysed in duplicates for all samples. Concentrations of fibrin monomer in pregnant and non-pregnant women were compared and the CVI for fibrin monomer was calculated.

Results

The median fibrin monomer concentration in pregnant women was 6.2 mg/L (2.5 and 97.5 percentiles 3.7–10.8 mg/L) and in non-pregnant women 4.8 mg/L (3.6–8.2) ( P < 0.01). The fibrin monomer concentration was relatively stable during pregnancy, although a few unexplained high fibrin monomer concentrations were found during pregnancy/postpartum. Fibrin monomer CVI in pregnancy and postpartum was 20.6% (95% CI 18.3, 23.5) and in non-pregnant 16.1% (13.7, 18.9).

Conclusions

For clinical purposes, fibrin monomer concentration can be considered stable during pregnancy, although it is slightly higher than in non-pregnant women. Pregnant and non-pregnant women have the same CVI. The suitability of fibrin monomer in venous thromboembolism diagnosis in pregnant women should be validated in further studies.
Artificial Intelligence in Human Resources Management: Challenges and a Path Forward
Authors: Tambe Prasanna , Cappelli Peter , Yakubovich Valery
Published: August 2019

There is a substantial gap between the promise and reality of artificial intelligence in human resource (HR) management. This article identifies four challenges in using data science techniques for HR tasks: complexity of HR phenomena, constraints imposed by small data sets, accountability questions associated with fairness and other ethical and legal constraints, and possible adverse employee reactions to management decisions via data-based algorithms. It then proposes practical responses to these challenges based on three overlapping principles—causal reasoning, randomization and experiments, and employee contribution—that would be both economically efficient and socially appropriate for using data science in the management of employees.
Development of a Pharmacy Residency Research Certificate Program
Authors: Weeda Erin R. , Weant Kyle A.
Published: August 2019

Background: Similar to teaching certificate programs, which have been incorporated in many pharmacy residencies to improve teaching skills, resident research certificate programs could provide residents with more exposure to biostatistics and research design. However, few research certificate programs have been described. Objective: To assess the impact of a research certificate program on residents’ attitude toward, confidence in, and knowledge of research. Methods: A resident research certificate program was created for the 2018-2019 residency class at our institution, which included 33 pharmacy residents (15 postgraduate year-1 [PGY1] and 18 PGY2 residents). The program consisted of 7 sessions aimed at providing residents with research training. To earn a certificate, participants were required to attend 6 or more sessions and achieve a score greater than or equal to 70% on a postassessment. An optional questionnaire assessing attitude, confidence, and knowledge was also administered at baseline and following the certificate program. Results: Of the 33 residents participating in the research certificate program, 21 (9 PGY1 and 12 PGY2) residents completed both the baseline and follow-up questionnaire and were included in the analysis. All items assessing attitude and 3 of 6 items assessing confidence improved significantly following the certificate program when compared to baseline ( P < .05 for all). Median knowledge scores were no different on the baseline versus follow-up questionnaire ( P = .54). Conclusions: After completing a research certificate program, resident knowledge scores did not differ from baseline, but attitudes toward research and confidence appeared to improve. Research certificate programs could be an avenue for providing pharmacy residents with increased exposure to and comfort with biostatistics and research design.
Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Outcomes Associated With the Use of Pegfilgrastim On-body Injector in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy Requiring Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Support
Authors: Patel Jolly , Rainess Rebecca Ann , Benfield Miranda J. , Rogers Kate M. L. , Moore Donald C. , Larck Chris , Arnall Justin R.
Published: August 2019

Objectives: Pegfilgrastim is a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) used as primary prophylaxis in patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy regimens that have greater than 20% risk of developing febrile neutropenia (FN). Historically, pegfilgrastim has been administered 24 to 72 hours after chemotherapy, necessitating a return to clinic to receive the provider-administered injection. An alternative option is the pegfilgrastim on-body injector (OBI). With the OBI device, patients have their pegfilgrastim administered 27 hours after receiving chemotherapy while remaining at home, avoiding an additional clinic appointment. Concerns with pegfilgrastim OBI include lack of experience with the device in both the patient and provider, device-related failures, and the success of delivery. This study evaluates pegfilgrastim OBI failure rates through associated patient outcomes among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy requiring G-CSF. Methods: A retrospective electronic chart review was conducted of adult patients with cancer who received chemotherapy and pegfilgrastim OBI from July 1, 2016, to July 31, 2018. The primary objective of this study was the incidence of FN in patients receiving pegfilgrastim OBI. Results: There were no reported cases of hospitalization due to FN in patients who received pegfilgrastim OBI. Dose delays and dosage modifications were not observed in our review. The OBI device failure rate was found to be low (1.92%). Conclusion: The low device failure rate from this study suggests that the OBI is a viable option for administration of pegfilgrastim in patients receiving chemotherapy requiring G-CSF.
The impact of self-stigma on self-esteem among persons with different mental disorders
Authors: Park Keunwoo , MinHwa Lee , Seo Mikyung
Published: August 2019

Background:

This study assumes that just as public stigma differs depending on types of mental disorder, so too does self-stigma.

Aims:

This study aims to compare self-stigma among persons with schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder and gambling disorder, and thereby analyze the effects of self-stigma on their self-esteem.

Methods:

A total of 321 Korean adults involved in community mental services for schizophrenia ( N = 116), alcohol use disorder ( N = 102) and gambling disorder ( N = 103) were surveyed ( Mage = 40.74, standard deviation ( SD) = 10.10, 83.8% male, 16.2% female). Participants were questioned on self-stigma and self-esteem. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the self-stigma by mental disorder type. Furthermore, in order to analyze the effects of self-stigma on self-esteem with subjects’ age and educational background controlled, hierarchical regression analysis was used.

Results:

The self-stigma of gambling disorder group was highest not only in overall self-stigma but also some of its subscales – alienation, stereotype endorsement and stigma resistance – followed by alcohol use disorder group and schizophrenia group. In all three groups, self-stigma had a negative effect on self-esteem, while stigma resistance of subscales was the most important predictor. In addition to stigma resistance, alienation was a predictor in the schizophrenia group, alienation and social withdrawal in the alcohol use disorder group and social withdrawal was a significant predictor in the gambling disorder group. Therefore, the predictors of self-esteem differed depending on the type of mental disorder.

Conclusion:

Based on these results, we suggest cognitive-behavioral intervention to raise subject awareness of the unjust social stigma and boost self-advocacy to resist the stigma.
Situating Vulnerability and Exploitation in Street-Level Drug Markets: Cuckooing, Commuting, and the “County Lines” Drug Supply Model
Authors: Moyle Leah
Published: August 2019

The emergence of “county lines” drug dealing, a supply model which sees drug dealers travel from urban hubs to provincial locations to retail heroin and crack cocaine, is now established in the United Kingdom. This market trend has been associated with novel and evolving distribution practices, yet arguably most problematic is its reliance on forms of exploitative labor undertaken by vulnerable populations. Drawing principally on interviews with local drug-involved adults, this article is the first to undertake in-depth analysis of their experience of risky street-level labor in “host” towns. Findings suggest that despite violence and intimidation, many saw county lines labor as preferable to other income generating activity, and contrary to popular enforcement narratives, they often became involved though constrained choice. As such, it is argued that the policy response might resemble one of building resilience through multiagency support, which better equips “structurally vulnerable” populations to exit exploitative relationships.
Black Out-group Marriages and Hate Crime Rates: A Cross-sectional Analysis of U.S. Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Piatkowska Sylwia J. , Messner Steven F. , Hövermann Andreas
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

This study introduces an indicator of racial out-group marriage to the research on hate crime. Drawing upon a variant of group threat theory, we hypothesize that Black out-group marriage with Whites will be positively related to anti-Black hate crime rates insofar as such marriages are perceived as transgressions of cultural boundaries. Informed by Allport’s contact theory, we hypothesize that Black out-group marriage with Whites will be negatively related to anti-Black hate crime rates insofar as such marriages indicate intercultural accommodation.

Methods:

Using data for a sample of U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas circa 2010, we assess our hypotheses with two operationalizations of levels of hate crime—incidence rates and victimization rates.

Results:

Our results reveal that levels of Black out-group marriages with Whites are positively related to the Black hate crime victimization rate but not related to the incidence rate.

Conclusions:

Our analyses suggest that any salutary effect of intercultural accommodation associated with interracial marriage is overwhelmed by the influence of the perceived cultural threat and intensification of animus for the “at-risk” population for perpetrating anti-Black hate crimes.
Cash Assistance in America: The Role of Race, Politics, and Poverty
Authors: Hardy Bradley L. , Samudra Rhucha , Davis Jourdan A.
Published: August 2019

We examine the predictors of state spending on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance, which has fallen dramatically since the passage of welfare reform in 1996. Over the 2000s, states allocating 33% or more of their TANF expenditures toward cash assistance are more likely to have higher minimum wages and are more liberal, though with fewer Black residents—both overall and on the TANF caseload. Our preferred empirical specifications suggest a negative link between state basic assistance expenditures—which we use as a measure of cash assistance—and the proportion of Black residents on the state’s TANF caseload. These findings contribute to a longstanding body of research examining the political economy of racial disparities within the welfare system and support further investigation into the mechanisms driving these observed associations. Upon considering the Kerner Commission’s call to reinvest in economically disadvantaged communities, it is important to consider how reform proposals modeled off of TANF may extend to new domains of the American social safety net. Our findings, as well as those of others within the welfare research literature, recommend a closer look at whether and how race operates within systems of devolved authority.
Preparation of soft composite reinforced with auxetic warp-knitted spacer fabric for stab resistance
Authors: Xu Wanli , Sun Yaxin , Lin Haitao , Wei Chunyan , Ma Pibo , Xia Fenglin
Published: August 2019

Auxetic warp-knitted spacer fabrics have gained increasing interest due to their excellent properties, such as shear resistance, indentation resistance, synclastic curvature and so on. Soft composites made from auxetic warp-knitted spacer fabrics and A/B two-component silicone rubbers were studied in this paper. The stabbing resistance of composites made by different auxetic fabrics (Fabrics 1–4#) and at different filling rates (0%, 20%, 40%, 70%, 100%), respectively, were tested using a universal Material Testing System. The results show that the peak load, energy absorption and deformation displacement of the composites increase with an increase of auxetic performance and filling rate. In addition, a better auxetic effect and larger filling rate can result in less damage. The composites with a higher filling rate are more like an elastomer. The auxetic effect also has an important role in stabbing resistance, which is due to fabrics with a larger negative Poisson's ratio value having a denser face layer structure and more deformable units, which can lead to better stabbing resistance for the composites.
Factors Associated With Prescribed Antenatal Care Utilization: A Cross-Sectional Study in Eastern Rural China
Authors: You Hua , Yu Ting , Gu Hai , Kou Yun , Xu Xin-peng , Li Xiao-lu , Cui Nan , Bai Lan
Published: August 2019

With relatively sufficient antenatal health service supplies in eastern rural China, the utilization still needs to be improved. The objective of this study was to identify factors that correlate with antenatal care (ANC) utilization from the demand-side in Jiangsu, China. In a cross-sectional survey, a sample of 896 rural women who had a childbearing history in the previous 5 years answered ANC questions and formed the final analysis. Questionnaire was designed based on Andersen’s behavioral model. The outcome variables included receiving times and items of prescribed ANC utilization, and the explanatory variables were organized into 3 hierarchical levels: predisposing, enabling, and need factors. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted. In the results of multivariate logistic regression, factors significantly associated with ANC examination times included income, odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) = 2.90 (1.92-4.39); the distance from the nearest hospital, OR (95% CI) = 0.67 (0.47-0.95); chronic disease, OR (95% CI) = 1.77 (1.15-2.72); and parity, OR (95% CI) = 0.66 (0.46-0.95), while factors significantly associated with ANC examination items included education, OR (95% CI) = 8.02 (1.08-59.67); income, OR (95% CI) = 3.90 (1.72-8.85); female medical staff in towns and villages, OR (95% CI) = 2.64 (1.39-5.02); and parity, OR (95% CI) = 0.41 (0.23-0.75). In reducing inadequate ANC utilization in rural area, efforts should be made not only to target the rural women with lower income, lower educational level, and multi-parity, but also to further improve the accessibility of the primary medical facilities and female staff at the grassroots level.
New Trading Zones in Contemporary Universities
Authors: Shibarshina Svetlana
Published: August 2019

This article aims to distinguish and depict the features of communications and collaborations in contemporary universities through the concept of trading zones. The author also considers the role that the idea of a digital university might play in shaping interactions in transforming local context where different actors can find a common ground of exchange. The new contexts, including the pragmatic orientation of contemporary society and new technologies and environments, contribute to reconsidering the idea of the classical university, in which interactions between professors and students have outstepped customary collaborations in laboratories, as well as the idea of education and research integration. This article focuses on distinguishing new forms of interactions, boundary practices, and environments, which are suggested by today’s universities. Proceeding from them, the author argues that new concepts of the university, such as the digital university, and renovated campuses—to some extent—contribute to the adaptation of a renewed idea of Humboldt’s Bildung.
The aesthetics of surprise in Waller’s ‘Song’ (‘Go, lovely Rose’)
Authors: Jordan Joseph P
Published: August 2019

Edmund Waller’s ‘Song’ (‘Go, lovely Rose’) ends shockingly: when the rose, which had been acting as a gently chiding intermediary between the speaker and the beloved, is suddenly commanded to perish. But this surprise is prepared for by a host of imperceptible effects, making readers experience the surprise as, paradoxically, an inevitable one. The quietness of the anticipatory effects may account for why this poem has occasioned such scant critical commentary despite it being one of the masterpieces of the late English Renaissance.