bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Assessment Tool and Overview of Adaptive Traffic Control Deployments in the U.S
Authors: Dobrota Nemanja , Stevanovic Aleksandar , Mitrovic Nikola
Published: October 2020

Adaptive traffic control systems (ATCSs), have been in use since the late 1970s but have only received significant attention in the U.S. during the last 10 years. Since 2008, the number of these systems has increased by more than 600%. A brief literature review clearly shows a shortage of comprehensive studies that gather data from numerous field evaluations, categorize those evaluations based on several factors, summarize findings, and develop meaningful conclusions. This study addresses this gap by presenting a framework and a tool which enable comprehensive analysis of ATCSs deployed and evaluated in the U.S. Compared with some previous studies, where the focus was on brief and general experiences with ATCSs, the tool presented in this study allows detailed analysis of ATCS deployments and investigation of numerous criteria important for their evaluations. Relevant ATCS data from deploying agencies and literature are collected, discussed, and used to populate a database of the Assessment Tool for Adaptive Traffic Control ([AT]2C). The main purpose of (AT)2C is to help practitioners and researchers to identify, compare, and assess statistics of relevant ATCS technologies, mainly from the perspective of their field benefits.
Severity Analysis of Wildlife–Vehicle Crashes using Generalized Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Gharraie Iman , Sacchi Emanuele
Published: October 2020

Each year, thousands of wildlife–vehicle crashes (WVCs) occur in North America with negative effects on wildlife welfare, human health, and the economy. Although previous studies have investigated factors related to WVC frequency, limited research has been conducted on factors affecting WVC severity. Using more than 10,000 WVCs occurring in the province of Saskatchewan (Canada), this study investigated the severity outcomes of WVCs and their influencing factors, using structural equation modeling (SEM) with generalized (ordered probit) links. Compared with traditional severity analysis techniques, SEM offers the added advantage of representing, estimating, and testing complex modeling structures that include both measured and latent (unmeasured) variables. Three latent variables were introduced in this study: driver’s speeding attitude (SA), driver’s visibility impairment (VI), and crash severity. Measured variables obtained from crash records were included in the SEM to define latent constructs, and the resulting network of relationships was tested. The results showed that crash data supported the model hypothesis well, and the measured/latent variables adequately predicted crash severity. Overall, SA and VI were demonstrated to positively affect crash severity with SA being the most influential factor. Moreover, it was demonstrated that road surface condition was the most influential factor of the SA measurement model, and weather condition was the most influential factor with respect to VI. Finally, a comparison between generalized SEM results and traditional crash severity modeling using ordered probit links was conducted. Similarities and differences between these two approaches were discussed at the end of the study.
Keeping the Nation’s Secrets: “Colonial Storytelling” within Australian Families
Authors: Barnwell Ashley
Published: October 2020

Recent studies of the genealogy craze focus on how family historians appeal to ancestors to fashion their own identities, but practicing family history can also be a form of national identity-work. In this paper I explore how Larissa Behrendt’s notion of “colonial storytelling” might apply to the hi/stories told within families, as they seek to reproduce or challenge inherited narratives of settler colonialism. To do this, I analyze a sample of self-published family histories of “settlement” held at the National Library of Australia. With close attention to family historians’ books, I consider how genealogical research can revise the collective memories that shape both familial and national imaginaries and offer a model for truth-telling.
Vascular calcification by conventional X-ray and mortality in a cohort of predominantly African descent hemodialysis patients
Authors: Martins Maria Tereza S , Matos Cácia M , Lopes Marcelo B , Kraychete Angiolina C , Lopes Gildete B , Martins Márcia Tereza S , Fernandes João Luiz , Amoedo Maurício K , Neves Carolina L , Lopes Antonio A
Published: October 2020

Background/objective:

There is a lack of studies describing the prevalence of vascular calcification (VC) and its association with mortality in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients of African descent. We investigated if a VC score based on the number of calcified vascular beds was associated with mortality in MHD patients.

Methods:

We analyzed data from 211 MHD patients enrolled from January 2010 to January 2011 in the prospective cohort study, “The Prospective Study of the Prognosis of Chronic Hemodialysis Patients (PROHEMO),” developed in Salvador, BA, Brazil. VC was evaluated using radiographs of the hands, abdomen, hip, and chest; the score was calculated by the number of calcified sites as 0 (absence of calcification), 1 (one calcified site), 2 (two sites), 3 (⩾3 sites). We used Cox’s regression to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of associations between VC and mortality with adjustments for age and comorbidities.

Results:

VC was detected in 114 (54.0%) patients; 37 (17.5%) with a VC score = 1; 21 (10%) with VC score = 2 and 56 (26.5%) with VC score = 3. Compared with VC score = 0, the adjusted hazard of death was 2.67 (95% CI: 1.12, 6.33) for patients with VC score = 1; HR = 2.89 (95% CI: 0.95, 7.63) for VC score = 2; and HR = 3.27 (95% CI: 1.47, 7.28) for VC score = 3.

Conclusion:

The present study in an African descent MHD population provides support for the VC score based on conventional radiography as a prediction tool for the clinical practice. As shown, the VC score was monotonically and independently associated with mortality.
Changes to the Psychiatric Chatbot Landscape: A Systematic Review of Conversational Agents in Serious Mental Illness: Changements du paysage psychiatrique des chatbots: une revue systématique des agents conversationnels dans la maladie mentale sérieuse
Authors: Vaidyam Aditya Nrusimha , Linggonegoro Danny , Torous John
Published: October 2020

Objective:

The need for digital tools in mental health is clear, with insufficient access to mental health services. Conversational agents, also known as chatbots or voice assistants, are digital tools capable of holding natural language conversations. Since our last review in 2018, many new conversational agents and research have emerged, and we aimed to reassess the conversational agent landscape in this updated systematic review.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in January 2020 using the PubMed, Embase, PsychINFO, and Cochrane databases. Studies included were those that involved a conversational agent assessing serious mental illness: major depressive disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, or anxiety disorder.

Results:

Of the 247 references identified from selected databases, 7 studies met inclusion criteria. Overall, there were generally positive experiences with conversational agents in regard to diagnostic quality, therapeutic efficacy, or acceptability. There continues to be, however, a lack of standard measures that allow ease of comparison of studies in this space. There were several populations that lacked representation such as the pediatric population and those with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. While comparing 2018 to 2020 research offers useful insight into changes and growth, the high degree of heterogeneity between all studies in this space makes direct comparison challenging.

Conclusions:

This review revealed few but generally positive outcomes regarding conversational agents’ diagnostic quality, therapeutic efficacy, and acceptability, which may augment mental health care. Despite this increase in research activity, there continues to be a lack of standard measures for evaluating conversational agents as well as several neglected populations. We recommend that the standardization of conversational agent studies should include patient adherence and engagement, therapeutic efficacy, and clinician perspectives.
The Meaning of “Racism”
Authors: Shiao Jiannbin , Woody Ashley
Published: October 2020

This article explores the meanings of racism in the sociology of race/ethnicity and provides a descriptive framework for comparing theories of racism. The authors argue that sociologists use racism to refer to four constructs: (1) individual attitudes, (2) cultural schema, and two constructs associated with structural racism: (3) preexisting consequential inequalities, that is, racial dominance, and (4) processes that create or maintain racial dominance. The article compares this framework with a content and citation analysis of 1,037 sociology journal articles published from 1995 to 2015, a period stretching from a major call to renew sociological attention to racism, to the founding of the American Sociological Association journal, Sociology of Race and Ethnicity. The authors find six communities organized around distinctive citations and using different meanings of racism. They conclude by pushing toward the question of what racism ought to mean by discussing the implications for both sociological research and public sociology.
Information-seeking in the Wake of Tragedy: An Examination of Public Response to Mass Shootings Using Google Search Data
Authors: Semenza Daniel Charles , Bernau John A.
Published: October 2020

Mass shootings are a highly visible form of violence in the United States, although public response to these events varies considerably. Drawing on social problems and collective threat perception literature, we use search data for all Google-using Americans following mass shootings since 2004 to examine how event attributes such as the number of victims, venue, and type of weapon(s) predict public information-seeking related to gun control and gun rights. The results demonstrate that the number of victims, news coverage, school venue, and the use of certain weapons all significantly increase public interest in gun control and gun rights. These key predictors interact with one another to further influence information-seeking behaviors related to both gun control and gun rights. We conclude with a discussion of our findings and the potential for Google Search data in social science research.
Pioneers on the Case for Promoting Motivation to Teach Text-Based Programming
Authors: Efecan Can Fatih , Sendag Serkan , Gedik Nuray
Published: October 2020

Learning programming is a painful process for most students, especially those learning text- based programming languages. In this study, based on the principle of Bandura’s social learning theory, the vicarious real-life experiences of several pioneers in the field of IT and programming were presented as 15-minutes stories to a group of 9th graders learning to code in Python. A quasi-experimental research design was used to examine the effects of the theory and associated technique on student achievement. The 27 participants in the experiment group watched these presentations before engaging in programming activities while a control group were also observed who received no extra motivational intervention. Those in the experiment group were found to have significantly improved their programming achievement compared to those in the control group. Additionally, the functionality and originality of the experimental group projects were significantly better than those produced in the control group. They reported that they had been motivated by the pioneer stories, and their interest and self-efficacy beliefs in relation to creating high level programming projects were increased. The results highlight the benefits obtained from proper application of a “pioneer-story technique” to improve text-based programming skills.
Effect of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange on Immunoglobulin Deficiency in Early and Severe Septic Shock
Authors: Stahl Klaus , Bikker Rolf , Seeliger Benjamin , Schmidt Julius J. , Schenk Heiko , Schmidt Bernhard M. W. , Welte Tobias , Haller Hermann , Hoeper Marius M. , Brand Korbinian , David Sascha
Published: October 2020

Background:

Deficiency of immunoglobulins of the classes IgG, IgG1, IgA and IgM is associated with severity of disease and mortality in sepsis and septic shock. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) has recently gained attention as an adjunctive therapeutic option in early septic shock. We hypothesized that TPE might modulate immunoglobulin deficiencies besides sole elimination of circulating injurious molecules.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective single center study with TPE in 33 patients with early septic shock (onset < 12 h) requiring high doses of norepinephrine (NE > 0.4μg/kg/min). Clinical and biochemical data, including measurement of immunoglobulin subgroups IgG, IgG1, IgM and IgA were obtained before and after TPE. The following immunoglobulin cut-off values were used to analyze subgroups with low immunoglobulin concentrations at baseline (IgG ≤ 6.5, IgG1 ≤ 3, IgM ≤ 1.5 and IgA ≤ 0.35 g/L).

Results:

At inclusion, median (IQR) SOFA score was 18 (15-20) and NE dose was 0.8 (0.6-1.2) μg/kg/min. The majority of patients demonstrated profound reductions in immunoglobulins levels of all classes. Globally, immunoglobulin levels were not significantly changed after a single TPE session. However, in patients with low baseline immunoglobulin levels a significant increase in all classes was observed (IgG 1.92 (0.96-3) g/L (+41%), IgG1 2.1 (1.46-2.32) g/L (+96%), IgA 0.44 (0.12-0.62) g/L (59%) and IgM 0.18 (0.14-0.34) g/L (+55%), p < 0.001 for comparison to patients above cut-off).

Conclusions:

The majority of early and severe septic shock patients had reduced immunoglobulin levels and a single TPE could attenuate immunoglobulin deficiencies of all classes. The clinical relevance of this observation has to be investigated in a proper designed trial.
Tantalum-containing mesoporous bioactive glass powder for hemostasis
Authors: Nagrath Malvika , Gallant Reid , Yazdi Alireza Rahimnejad , Mendonca Andrew , Rahman Saidur , Chiu Loraine , Waldman Stephen D , Ni Heyu , Towler Mark R
Published: October 2020

This study evaluates the hemostatic properties of tantalum-containing mesoporous bioactive glasses (Ta-MBGs) through a suite of in-vitro methods: hemolysis percentage, zeta potential, blood coagulation assays (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time – APTT and Prothrombin Time - PT) and cytotoxicity tests. Five compositions of Ta-MBG, with x mol% Ta2O5 added to the glass series (80- x)SiO2-15CaO-5P2O5- xTa2O5 where x=0 (0Ta), x=0.5 (0.5Ta), x=1 (1Ta), x=5 (5Ta), and x=10 (10Ta) mol%, were synthesised. The hemostatic potential of all the Ta-MBGs was confirmed by their negative zeta potential (–23 to –31 mV), which enhances the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation. The hemolysis percentages of all Ta-MBGs except 10Ta showed statistically significant reductions compared to the same experiments carried out both in the absence of a sample (‘no treatment’ group) and in the presence of 10Ta. These observations validate the consideration of Ta-MBGs as hemostatic agents as they do not cause significant lysis of red blood cells. Cytotoxicity analysis revealed that Ta-MBGs had no effect on bovine fibroblast viability. Furthermore, a reduction in both APTT (a test to evaluate the intrinsic pathway of coagulation) and PT (a test to evaluate the extrinsic pathway) signified enhancement of hemostasis: 5Ta caused a significant reduction in APTT compared to ‘no treatment’, 1Ta and 10Ta and a significant reduction in PT compared to 0Ta. Therefore, we conclude that 5mol% of Ta optimised the hemostatic properties of these mesoporous bioactive glasses.
The Partner Pay Gap: Associations between Spouses’ Relative Earnings and Life Satisfaction among Couples in the UK
Authors: Gash Vanessa , Plagnol Anke C
Published: October 2020

Despite women’s recent gains in education and employment, husbands still tend to out-earn their wives. This article examines the relationship between the partner pay gap (i.e. the difference in earned income between married, co-resident partners) and life satisfaction. Contrary to previous studies, we investigate the effects of recent changes in relative earnings within couples as well as labour market transitions. Using several waves of the UK Household Longitudinal Study, we reveal that men exhibit an increase in life satisfaction in response to a recent increase in their proportional earnings relative to their wives’ earnings. For women, changes in proportional earnings had no effect on life satisfaction. We also find secondary-earning husbands report lower average life satisfaction than majority-earning and equal-earning men, while such differences were not found for women. The analysis offers compelling evidence of the ongoing role of gendered norms in the sustenance of the partner pay gap.
Bending and free vibration analyses of functionally graded material nanoplates via a novel nonlocal single variable shear deformation plate theory
Authors: Hoa Le Kha , Vinh Pham Van , Duc Nguyen Dinh , Trung Nguyen Thoi , Son Le Truong , Thom Do Van
Published: October 2020

A novel nonlocal shear deformation theory is established to investigate functionally graded nanoplates. The significant benefit of this theory is that it consists of only one unknown variable in its displacement formula and governing differential equation, but it can take into account both the quadratic distribution of the shear strains and stresses through the plate thickness as well as the small-scale effects on nanostructures. The numerical solutions of simply supported rectangular functionally graded material nanoplates are carried out by applying the Navier procedure. To indicate the accuracy and convergence of this theory, the present solutions have been compared with other published results. Furthermore, a deep parameter study is also carried out to exhibit the influence of some parameters on the response of the functionally graded material nanoplates.
Dental and Craniofacial Characteristics in Patients With 14Q22.1-Q22.2 Deletion: A Case Series
Authors: Roelandt Marie Anne , Devriendt Koenraad , de Llano-Pérula Maria Cadenas , Raes Margot , Willems Guy , Verdonck Anna
Published: October 2020

This case series is a follow-up report focusing on dental and facial characteristics in patients with a rare microdeletion in chromosome 14q22.1-q22.2. Usually, these patients have severe ocular, brain, and digital abnormalities. However, this case series shows that clinical presentation can be mild. Four relatives spanning 3 generations were diagnosed with a familial autosomal dominant 2.79 Mb microdeletion in chromosome 14q22.1-q22.2. Genetic screening was done by the Bacterial Artificial Chromosome array-comparative genome hybridization and was confirmed by the fluorescence in situ hybridization technique. Dental and craniofacial data were collected from medical files, clinical examinations, clinical photos, panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, and dental casts. Written informed consent for scientific use was obtained for all family members. No larger syndrome could be identified. All cases had similar facial red flag characteristics, consisting of a long face with retrognathia and open mouth relation, associated oral clefts in varying degrees, depressed nasal bridge, delayed tooth development, hypertelorism, and low-set angular ears. The dental casts showed a distal molar occlusion and a lack of space in the dental arches. Developmental delay was noted together with limb defects such as poly- and syndactyly. Microphthalmia and hearing loss were present in the most severe cases. This rare congenital disorder, associated with facial dysmorphia, oral clefts, and tooth agenesis, can remain undiagnosed until adulthood. A family history of short stature, developmental delay, poly- or syndactyly, and micropthalmia are suggestive features. Similar reports help to raise awareness among dental practitioners, leading to an early genetic diagnosis.
Exploring Systems Thinking in Schools: Mental Models of School Management Teams
Authors: Chen-Levi Tamar , Schechter Chen , Buskila Yaffa
Published: October 2020

Systems thinking (ST) is a holistic leadership approach that puts the study of wholes before that of parts. It focuses attention on how organization members act together in networks of interactions. This is done by researching organization members’ mental models, which are deeply ingrained assumptions, generalizations, or even mental pictures or images that influence how one understands the world and thus takes action in order to achieve desired results. The purpose of this study was to explore the ST of school management teams (SMTs) through mental models. The main research question leading this inquiry was: How does ST reflect and express the mental models of SMTs? Qualitative data were collected via structured open questions. Hundred and fifty-four SMT members who worked at different school levels participated in this study. Data analysis was conducted by generating themes through an inductive process of condensing, coding, categorizing, and theorizing. The data analysis yielded five major themes: (a) the nature of teamwork; (b) shaping schools’ goals and policies; (c) systemic gathering of information; (d) shaping the pedagogical work; and (e) decision-making and problem-solving as one organic puzzle. These themes were found to be closely interrelated in the context of schoolwork. This study highlights the importance of understanding more fully the role of SMTs’ ST in schools. The study proposes that SMT members focus on ST characteristics that can enhance overall effectiveness. This can help SMTs achieve better cooperation with their counterparts as a leverage for school effectiveness.
“I Want to Sleep, but I Can’t”: Adolescents’ Lived Experience of Sleeping Difficulties
Authors: Jakobsson Malin , Sundin Karin , Högberg Karin , Josefsson Karin
Published: October 2020

Sleeping difficulties are increasingly prevalent among adolescents and have negative consequences for their health, well-being, and education. The aim of this study was to illuminate the meanings of adolescents’ lived experiences of sleeping difficulties. The data were obtained from narrative interviews with 16 adolescents aged 14–15 in a Swedish city and were analyzed using the phenomenological hermeneutic method. The findings revealed four themes: feeling dejected when not falling asleep, experiencing the night as a struggle, searching for better sleep, and being affected the next day. The comprehensive understanding illuminates that being an adolescent with sleeping difficulties means it is challenging to go through the night and to cope the next day. It also means a feeling of being trapped by circumstances. As the adolescents’ lived experiences become apparent, the possibility for parents, school nurses, and other professional caregivers to support adolescents’ sleep increases.
ACE: Three Adventure-Based Activities to Improve Family Communication
Authors: Koltz Rebecca L.
Published: October 2020

The action-oriented nature of adventure-based counseling (ABC) makes it a good therapeutic modality for family counseling settings. Research studies exploring the integration of ABC with families are positively correlated with increased communication, conflict resolution, trust, and intimacy. The author presents adventure-based family communication experience, a series of three ABC activities integrated with Satir’s communication model to use in family counseling sessions. Each activity is described, and thoughts about how to integrate and process the experience with a family are provided.
Sexual Victimization and Disordered Eating in Bisexual Women: A Test of Objectification Theory
Authors: Holmes Samantha C. , DaFonseca Alexis M. , Johnson Dawn M.
Published: October 2020

The current study (a) ascertained whether there is a relationship between sexual victimization (SV) and disordered eating (DE) among bisexual women, (b) assessed whether objectification theory explains the relationship, and (c) tested for group differences between bisexual and heterosexual women on SV, DE, and other objectification theory variables. Utilizing a sample of 164 undergraduate bisexual women, there was a significant positive relationship between SV and DE that was serially mediated by self-surveillance and body shame. In addition, bisexual participants endorsed more SV, DE, body shame, and interoceptive deficits than a comparison sample of 335 undergraduate heterosexual women. Implications are discussed.
Vesicle Transport in Plants: A Revised Phylogeny of SNARE Proteins
Authors: Gu Xiaoyan , Brennan Adrian , Wei Wenbin , Guo Guangqin , Lindsey Keith
Published: October 2020

Communication systems within and between plant cells involve the transfer of ions and molecules between compartments, and are essential for development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This in turn requires the regulated movement and fusion of membrane systems with their associated cargo. Recent advances in genomics has provided new resources with which to investigate the evolutionary relationships between membrane proteins across plant species. Members of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are known to play important roles in vesicle trafficking across plant, animal and microbial species. Using recent public expression and transcriptomic data from 9 representative green plants, we investigated the evolution of the SNARE classes and linked protein changes to functional specialization (expression patterns). We identified an additional 3 putative SNARE genes in the model plant Arabidopsis. We found that all SNARE classes have expanded in number to a greater or lesser degree alongside the evolution of multicellularity, and that within-species expansions are also common. These gene expansions appear to be associated with the accumulation of amino acid changes and with sub-functionalization of SNARE family members to different tissues. These results provide an insight into SNARE protein evolution and functional specialization. The work provides a platform for hypothesis-building and future research into the precise functions of these proteins in plant development and responses to the environment.
National fields of civic integration: Operationalization of citizenship requirements
Authors: Suvarierol Semin
Published: October 2020

In comparative studies of European migration and civic integration, most attention tends to be invested in analyzing the content of policies and national citizenship models. How these policies have been operationalized, i.e., how different European governments translated their policies into actual civic integration programs, is a relatively less explored area of study. In this article, the Bourdieusian concept of ‘field’ guides us in opening the box of national models and generates a complex and dynamic analysis of civic integration as a policy field: Which actors have been involved in processes of defining the form and content of civic integration? How has their involvement affected the rules and norms of the resulting civic integration regime? These are the main questions the case studies address, relying on original empirical qualitative data gathered in 2011 in France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Using historical analysis, I reconstruct and compare how the composition of the particular civic integration field in each country influenced the actual civic integration programs as migrants experienced them in practice.
Natural or artificial? A reflection on a complex ontology
Authors: Cameli Simone Amato
Published: October 2020

State-of-the-art planning theory considers cities as cyborg entities composed by a “natural” part (human beings and their social structures) and an “artificial” part (buildings, infrastructure and other urban artifacts). We contend that this hybrid conception is indissolubly coupled with the ability to discriminate perfectly between the “natural” and the “artificial”. But is this actually the case? We will provide a critical reflection on this ontological issue pointing out that current urban planning theory as well as the general philosophical reflection is not able to produce a rigorous, consistent epistemic criterion to draw this distinction. Long-standing difficulties in this respect are exponentially amplified by recent developments in artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and biotechnology, and their growing relevance in urban environments of the near future risk making the cyborg conception informing the complexity theory of cities obsolete. We will conclude our reflection identifying a possible path for overcoming this dualism toward a more socio-natural conception internalizing the proteiform character of the concept of “nature” itself as well as its inherent cognitive/political element.
Writing as Inquiry During a Pandemic
Authors: Yoo Joanne
Published: October 2020

Standing on a knife’s edge is to write words that cut. We can enter such spaces by witnessing and encountering the COVID 19 pandemic’s devastating impacts. The suffering that ensues may lead to an emptiness that feels as if words have abandoned us. These unspoken words may build up inside, and eventually explode like a full dam, it’s power, bursting a hole in the fabric of our lives. The release can be experienced as a loss that becomes an opening. Riding this intense wave of affect to wherever it takes us, is to write as inquiry within a pandemic.
Therapeutic Potential of Selected Varieties of Phoenix Dactylifera L. Against Microbial Biofilm and Free Radical Damage to DNA
Authors: Qasim Nimra , Shahid Muhammad , Yousaf Fatima , Riaz Muhammad , Anjum Fozia , Faryad Muhammad Adeel , Shabbir Remsha
Published: October 2020

Phoenix dactylifera L. (Date palm) is the most widely consumed fruit around the world and is rich source of nutrients containing dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, sugar, protein and antioxidants with potent bioactivities against various microbial pathogens. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of 2 varieties of ethanolic extracts of Phoenix dactylifera i-e Ajwa and Khalas against bacterial biofilms. This study also investigated the protective effect of Ajwa and Khalas against hydroxyl radical damage to calf thymus DNA. Antioxidant potential through different antioxidant assays showed that Ajwa has higher antioxidant potential than Khalas. Both Ajwa and Khalas presented good antimicrobial activities against Bacillus subtilis and Pasteurella multocida. Biofilm inhibition assay showed that increasing concentration of Ajwa and Khalas exhibited higher percentage of bacterial biofilm inhibition. Microscopic examination revealed significant inhibition of microbial biofilm. Ajwa and Khalas protected the calf thymus DNA against damage caused by hydroxyl radicals produced by fenton reagent. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra confirmed the presence of O–H, C=C and C–O functional groups in tested extracts. The study concluded that tested varieties of Date palm have the potential to inhibit bacterial biofilms and can be used for therapeutic purposes against biofilm producing pathogens.
Analytical Study on Gas-Oil Separation of a Heat Pump System under Lunar Gravity
Authors: Fu Zhendong , Miao Jianyin , Wu Qi , Zheng Hongyang
Published: October 2020

A heat pump in the aerospace industry can significantly reduce the area of radiator by elevating the rejection temperature. Especially for a Lunar base, the heat pump can improve the heat rejection capability of the thermal control system to adapt the high-temperature environment. However, gravity on the Lunar (about 1/6 g) may have an adverse impact on a gas-oil separator of the heat pump, and solving this problem is the key for a heat pump used on Lunar base. At present, the gas-oil separator all based on gravity separation theories, the researches under low or micro gravity were blank. In this work, a gravity separation model based on a single-particle principle was built, and the effects of the vapor velocity, the oil droplet initial velocity, and the oil droplet diameter were investigated under normal gravity. Then the variations of the separation efficiency under Lunar gravity were discussed and the numerical calculation results showed that the separation efficiency was reduced when the vapor velocity or droplet initial velocity increased in a certain height of the separator whenever under normal or Lunar gravity. Particularly, the separation efficiency under Lunar gravity was reduced from 99% to 55% than it under normal gravity.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Cu/Sn-In/Cu joints obtained by ultrasonic-assisted transient liquid phase bonding in air
Authors: Bi Yan , Nie Yong , Wang Qian , Han Jian , Cai Yangchuan
Published: October 2020

Ultrasonic-assisted transient liquid phase bonding of pure Cu with Sn-In solder was realized at 140°C in air. Shear test was carried out on the weldment. The effect of ultrasonic vibration on microstructure and mechanical properties of the weld seam was studied. The relationship between the formation of intermetallic compounds and their mechanical properties was analyzed by means of electronic scanning and element analysis. (Sn) solid solution, ε(Cu3Sn), η(Cu6Sn5), Cu10Sn3, Cu11In9, Cu9In4, γ, β phase were detected in the weld seam. When the ultrasonic vibration time is 30 s, the shear strength reached a maximum of 22.76 MPa. The fracture occurred on the surface of the fine-grained η(Cu6Sn5) phase. The fracture surface was partially covered with coarse-grained Cu11In9 phase, which belonged to a brittle fracture.
Research on control method of unmanned underwater vehicle dynamic positioning based on energy consumption optimization
Authors: Du Xue , Chen Dong , Yan Zebo
Published: October 2020

To satisfy the requirements of position control accuracy and allow unmanned underwater vehicle to maintain in the target zone with energy consumption as little as possible, this article proposes a flexible dynamic positioning strategy and control method, so as to extend the operating time of unmanned underwater vehicle dynamic positioning. Taking the distance between unmanned underwater vehicle and target point as the judgment condition for control method switching, this article delimits the working zone of different control levels for unmanned underwater vehicle and designs corresponding dynamic control methods for different working conditions. When unmanned underwater vehicle is far away from the target point, cuckoo search optimization method is proposed to plan the optimal motion scheme of energy consumption for the process of unmanned underwater vehicle reaching the target point. When unmanned underwater vehicle is close to the target positioning point, a flexible model predictive control method is proposed to reduce the energy consumption of unmanned underwater vehicle in the process of dynamic position control. The simulation case is designed to verify the flexible dynamic control capability of monomer unmanned underwater vehicle. The experimental results show that the strategy and control method proposed in this article, compared with the traditional proportion integration differentiation control method, could obtain the same control effect and reduce energy consumption, to achieve the purpose of prolonging the unmanned underwater vehicle operating time.
Intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation in patients with liver disease, focusing on alcoholic aetiology: methods of assessment and therapeutic intervention
Authors: Skinner Charlotte , Thompson Alex J. , Thursz Mark R. , Marchesi Julian R. , Vergis Nikhil
Published: October 2020

Increased bacterial translocation (BT) across the gut barrier due to greater intestinal permeability (IP) is seen across a range of conditions, including alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD). The phenomenon of BT may contribute to both the pathogenesis and the development of complications in ArLD. There are a number of methods available to assess IP and in this review we look at their various advantages and limitations. The knowledge around BT and IP in ArLD is also reviewed, as well as the therapeutic strategies currently in use and in development.
Neuroprotective Effect of Oxyresveratrol in Rotenone-Induced Parkinsonism Rats
Authors: Rodsiri Ratchanee , Benya-aphikul Hattaya , Teerapattarakan Narudol , Wanakhachornkrai Oraphan , Boonlert Weerawan , Tansawat Rossarin , Wiwattanapatapee Ruedeekorn , Sritularak Boonchoo , Likhitwitayawuid Kittisak
Published: October 2020

Oxyresveratrol, a polyphenolic compound, has been reported as having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study determined the neuroprotective effects of oxyresveratrol, extracted from the heartwood of Artocarpus lakoocha Roxburgh (Moraceae), on parkinsonism induced by rotenone. Male Wistar rats were divided into control, rotenone (PD), and rotenone plus oxyresveratrol (OXY) groups. The OXY rats received oxyresveratrol (300 mg/kg orally) on days 1-20. Rotenone (3 mg/kg subcutaneously) was given to PD and OXY rats on days 15, 16, 18, and 20. Motor function was determined by the rotarod test. Brains were collected to analyze dopaminergic neurons, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities. OXY rats exhibited a longer latency to fall than PD rats in the rotarod test ( P < 0.01) on day 16. The number of dopaminergic neurons in PD rats was lower than that in controls ( P < 0.01), while that of OXY rats was not different from controls. OXY rats showed a reduction in MDA levels ( P < 0.01) and increased catalase activity ( P < 0.05), while SOD activity was unaltered. The results suggest that oxyresveratrol pretreatment ameliorates motor impairment induced by rotenone and preserves dopaminergic neurons. The neuroprotective mechanism of oxyresveratrol is involved with its antioxidant properties.
Implementing School Improvement Plans: Perceptions and Implications of Aspiring Principals for Educational Leadership Programs
Authors: Gonzales Miguel M. , Bickmore Dana L. , Roberts Maria B.
Published: October 2020

This study examines what aspiring principal candidates in one university-based preparation program learned as a result of developing and implementing a school improvement plan. A case study approach was used to examine 53 aspiring principals’ reports of what they learned from implementing school improvement plans. Findings revealed three significant themes: (1) the importance of collaboratively engaging the participants of the school improvement plan; (2) the essential need of establishing relationships; and (3) understanding the significance and impact of data-driven decisions. Findings can inform leadership preparation programs to redirect coursework that will help aspiring principals improve leadership skills.
Evaluation of punching shear design criteria to prevent progressive collapse of RC flat slabs
Authors: Yankelevsky David Z , Karinski Yuri S , Brodsky Alex , Feldgun Vladimir R
Published: October 2020

This study focuses on a RC building with flat slabs that were designed according to current standards. A scenario of a slab with failed connections that is detached from its supporting columns and is falling downward is considered, and the impact results with the slab underneath are assessed. The suitability of the standards design criteria to provide safe design against impact loading is evaluated. It was found that larger span slabs experience heavier damage. Falling from a floor height and from a quarter floor height are analyzed and the damage results of these impacts are examined. At the lower impact velocity, the concrete slab surrounding the column undergoes major damage and shear deformations; In the case of a relatively short span slab, the rebars undergo large plastic deformations and almost reach the ultimate strain, such that a slightly higher impact velocity would cause rebars fracture and total failure of the slab-column connection. In the case of high impact velocity, the concrete in the slab around the column is fully crashed and the longitudinal and the bent up rebars are ruptured. The yield of the rebars occurs within a few milliseconds. During this extremely short time the impacted slab hardly starts developing its downward displacement. The impacted slab responds like a rigid body with severe damage concentration at the slab-column connection region. Different parameters affecting the slabs dynamic response are examined, and new insight is gained on the complex impact response of flat RC slabs. This study finds that the current design standards that are based on static loading considerations do not provide resilience to flat slab connections that are subjected to impact loading and therefore cannot prevent a progressive collapse scenario.
Searching Through Alternating Sequences: Working Memory and Inhibitory Tagging Mechanisms Revealed Using the MILO Task
Authors: Thornton Ian M. , Horowitz Todd S.
Published: October 2020

We used the Multi-Item Localisation (MILO) task to examine search through two sequences. In Sequential blocks of trials, six letters and six digits were touched in order. In Mixed blocks, participants alternated between letters and digits. These conditions mimic the A and B variants of the Trail Making Test (TMT). In both block types, targets either vanished or remained visible after being touched. There were two key findings. First, in Mixed blocks, reaction times exhibited a saw-tooth pattern, suggesting search for successive pairs of targets. Second, reaction time patterns for vanish and remain conditions were identical in Sequential blocks—indicating that participants could ignore past targets—but diverged in Mixed blocks. This suggests a breakdown of inhibitory tagging. These findings may help explain the elevated completion times observed in TMT-B, relative to TMT-A.
A case of foreign bodies self-inserted into the paranasal sinus via an oroantral fistula
Authors: Kwok Kihwan , Cho Hun Po , Park Sangheon , Jun Young Joon
Published: October 2020

Foreign bodies in the nasal cavity are rarely seen in adults, and most cases are traumatic in origin. Multiple foreign bodies in adults are particularly rare. Foreign bodies induce pain, bleeding, and infection but are easily removed in most cases. A patient presented with multiple toothpick foreign bodies in the nasal cavity, which were introduced intentionally through an oroantral fistula. We report an adult case with 37 toothpicks in the nasal cavity, which were removed successfully with a nasal endoscope. Oroantral fistula closure was achieved through oral surgery. Voluntary insertion of foreign bodies into the body by patients with mental illnesses is relatively difficult to identify. Evaluating and managing the psychiatric problems of such patients during treatment planning are necessary.
Utilizing the Learning Health System Adaptation to guide Family Medicine Practice to COVID-19 response
Authors: Khanna Niharika , Klyushnenkova Elena N. , Kaysin Alexander , Stewart David L.
Published: October 2020

COVID-19 supportive quarantine care in the community is managed by primary care practices. There is no current guidance on how a primary care practice with high volumes of patients screened for COVID-19 can re-configure itself to become responsive to the pandemic. We examined Learning Health System guidance from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine and adapted it to our primary care practice to create an efficient, effective, adaptive response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We suggest evaluating this response in the future for effectiveness and efficiency.
The Effect of Pre-Operative Medical Co-Morbidities on Rehabilitation Outcomes Following Surgery for Hip Fracture Management in Geriatric Populations
Authors: George Ashika Ann , Way Mandy , Varughese Ibin
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

As a result of increasing longevity, we are seeing more elderly patients with complex medical co-morbidities who sustain hip fractures requiring surgical management. The aim of this study is to understand and analyze the effect of preoperative medical comorbidities and associated low physiological reserve status on functional rehabilitation outcomes following surgical management of hip fractures.

Materials and methods:

This study conducted a retrospective analysis of 73 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria .We utilized the de Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) scores pre surgery and at the time of discharge from hospital following a period of rehabilitation as a measure of their pre and post-surgery functional status. The Physiological and Operative Score (POSSUM) was used as our tool to objectively quantify medical co-morbidities including but not limited to cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions.

Results:

The median age of our study population was 83 years of which 55(75%) were female. Time to surgery was a median of 21.0 hours, IQR (15.0-29.0), with a median physiological score of 21.0, IQR (19.0-26.0), the median pre surgery DEMMI was 85.0, IQR (55.5- 100.0) and the median DEMMI at discharge was 33.0, IQR (30.0-41.0).There is a moderate correlation between DEMMI pre and DEMMI at 3 months, 0.38 that is statistically significant, p = 0.001.

Discussion:

The effect of medical co- morbidities which causes the patient to have a poor physiological reserve even when coupled with the effect of the operative stress have no significant negative impact on the 90-day functional outcome of these patients.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that the presence of medical comorbidities in patients who require surgical management of hip fractures would not adversely affect their rehabilitation outcomes. The preinjury functional status of a patient is a significant factor in predicting functional rehabilitation outcomes.
Long-Term Follow-up of Posterior Selective Thoracolumbar/Lumbar Fusion in Patients With Lenke 5C Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: An Analysis of 10-Year Outcomes
Authors: Chen Kai , Chen Yu , Shao Jie , Zhoutian Junke , Wang Fei , Chen Ziqiang , Li Ming
Published: October 2020

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess long-term radiographic and clinical outcomes in Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients after posterior selective fusion.

Methods:

Lenke 5C AIS patients who underwent posterior selective thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) fusion in our hospital from January 2007 to January 2010 were recruited. Radiographic parameters were measured preoperatively and at the 3-month, 1-year, 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year follow-ups. The SRS-22 (Scoliosis Research Society) questionnaire was used to assess the clinical outcomes.

Results:

We included 37 patients who underwent posterior selective TL/L fusion surgery in our study, and the mean follow-up time was 11.26 ± 0.85 years. The average preoperative Cobb angles of the thoracic and TL/L curves were 24.0 ± 9.0° and 45.4 ± 6.3°, respectively, which were corrected to 12.2° and 12.4° at the 3-month follow-up postoperatively, with correction losses of 2.2° and 1.5° at the 10-year follow-up. In the sagittal plane, the degree of thoracic kyphosis (TK) gradually increased over the follow-up period. The proximal junctional angle (PJA) also gradually increased from 6.7 ± 4.6 to 13.7 ± 5.6 during the follow-up period. For the clinical outcomes, correction surgery improved the SRS-22 scores in each domain, especially in the self-image domain.

Conclusions:

Posterior selective TL/L fusion can effectively correct spinal deformities, leading to stable outcomes for 10 years postoperatively. During the follow-up period, the degree of TK presented an increasing trend that remained almost constant after the 1-year follow-up. Moreover, the variation in the PJA was highly significant in the postoperative period, and it showed an increasing trend until the 2-year follow-up.