bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive state estimation of Markov switched neural networks driven by Lévy noise
Authors: Tong Dongbing , Chen Qiaoyu , Zhou Wuneng , Xu Yuhua
Published: August 2019

This paper proposes the [Formula: see text]-matrix method to achieve state estimation in Markov switched neural networks with Lévy noise, and the method is very distinct from the linear matrix inequality technique. Meanwhile, in light of the Lyapunov stability theory, some sufficient conditions of the exponential stability are derived for delayed neural networks, and the adaptive update law is obtained. An example verifies the condition of state estimation and confirms the effectiveness of results.
An Algorithm to Evaluate Methodological Rigor and Risk of Bias in Single-Case Studies
Authors: Perdices Michael , Tate Robyn L. , Rosenkoetter Ulrike
Published: August 2019

Critical appraisal scales play an important role in evaluating methodological rigor (MR) of between-groups and single-case designs (SCDs). For intervention research this forms an essential basis for ascertaining the strength of evidence. Yet, few such scales provide classifications that take into account the differential weighting of items contributing to internal validity. This study aimed to develop an algorithm derived from the Risk of Bias in N-of-1 Trials (RoBiNT) Scale to classify MR and risk of bias magnitude in SCDs. The algorithm was applied to 46 SCD experiments. Two experiments (4%) were classified as Very High MR, 14 (30%) as High, 5 (11%) as Moderate, 2 (4%) as Fair, 2 (4%) as Low, and 21 (46%) as Very Low. These proportions were comparable to the What Works Clearinghouse classifications: 13 (28%) met standards, 8 (17%) met standards with reservations, and 25 (54%) did not meet standards. There was strong association between the two classification systems.
The Effect of an Innovative Vision Simulator (OrCam) on Quality of Life in Patients with Glaucoma
Authors: Waisbourd Michael , Ahmed Osama M. , Newman Joshua , Sahu Malya , Robinson Debbie , Siam Linda , Reamer Courtney B. , Zhan Tingting , Goldstein Michaella , Kurtz Shimon , Moster Marlene R. , Hark Lisa A. , Katz L. Jay
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of OrCam on vision-related quality of life of patients with legal blindness and end-stage glaucoma. OrCam is a device comprised of a camera and earpiece attached to the user’s eyeglass that translates written text to speech.

Methods:

In this prospective, observational study, a total of 27 participants were recruited and tested. All participants were legally blind. Participants were provided with the OrCam device during the study period and trained how to operate it. National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire-25 (NEI-VFQ-25) and other questionnaires were given to participants at the baseline visit and at the end of the 4-week study for comparison. Additional questions were surveyed weekly during the study to monitor progress.

Results:

At the final visit after 1 month, most participants, 74.1% ( n = 20/27), reported an increase in their overall quality of life. Participants were highly satisfied with the device; 88.9% ( n = 24/27) reported being “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the device. The NEI-VFQ-25 near vision subscale score improved from 29.9 to 37.2 ( p = .045).

Discussion:

OrCam allowed participants with legal blindness to read independently when in controlled settings, subsequently improving their quality of life. However, users had more difficulty using the device when the location of text was not readily apparent (e.g., street signs, billboards), and users with some degree of vision had an easier time aligning the device with the text.

Implications for practitioners:

This device may offer participants with visual impairments the opportunity to read independently.
Impact of different b-value combinations on radiomics features of apparent diffusion coefficient in cervical cancer
Authors: He Yaoyao , Rong Yi , Chen Hao , Zhang Zhaoxi , Qiu Jianfeng , Zheng Lili , Benedict Stanley , Niu Xiaohui , Pan Ning , Liu Yulin , Yuan Zilong
Published: August 2019

Background

The impact of variable b-value combinations on apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)-based radiomics features has not been fully addressed in literature.

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between radiomics features extracted from ADC maps and various b-value combinations in cervical cancer.

Material and Methods

Diffusion-weighted images (b-values: 0, 600, 800, and 1000 s/mm2) of 20 patients with cervical cancer were included. Tumors were identified with the largest transversal cross-section and manually segmented by radiologist. For each b-value combination, 92 radiomics features were extracted and coefficient of variance (CV) was used to evaluate the robustness of radiomics features with different b-value combinations. Features with CV > 5% were normalized by the mean feature variation across the group.

Results

Out of a total of 92 radiomics features, 18 were classified as robust features with CV ≤5%. Among the rest (CV > 5%), 11, 23, and 40 features demonstrated 5%< CV ≤10%, 10%< CV ≤20%, and CV > 20%, respectively. A subset of features in each category (CV > 5%) showed strong correlation with the b-value combination variation, including 44% (7/16) features in gray level co-occurrence matrix, 62% (8/13) features in gray level dependence matrix, 64% (9/14) features in first order, 50% (8/16) features in gray level run length matrix, 57% (8/14) features in gray level size matrix, and 20% (1/5) features in neighborhood gray-tone difference matrix.

Conclusions

Variations in b-value combinations demonstrated impact on radiomics features extracted from ADC maps for cervical cancer. The radiomics features with CV <5% can be considered as robust features and are recommended to be used in multicenter radiomics studies.
A combination of ultrasonic debridement and Shenghong wet dressing in patients with chronic ulcers of the lower limbs
Authors: Xiaolan Xie , Wujie Guan , Xiaoyan Tang , Wenlai Chang
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of ultrasonic debridement plus a wet dressing of Shenghong (SH) on chronic ulcer healing of the lower extremities in patients with diabetes.

Methods

Sixty cases of diabetes combined with chronic lower limb ulcers were randomly divided into control (n = 30) and experimental (n = 30) groups. The control group was treated with ultrasonic debridement plus recombinant human fibroblast growth factor (FGF) gel. The experimental group was treated with ultrasonic debridement plus SH wet dressing.

Results

The mean clinical efficacy in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (93.33% ± 6.32% versus 60.0% ± 5.87%). The mean ulcer area was significantly smaller and the mean ulcer healing rate was significantly shorter in the first 3 months, and the mean overall pain intensity score was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group. Moreover, the positive rates of bacterial culture on the 7th and 15th days were significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group.

Conclusion

The use of ultrasonic debridement plus SH wet dressing for treating ulcers can significantly improve clinical efficacy and promote healing.
Cyber Dating Abuse Victimization: Links With Psychosocial Functioning
Authors: Duerksen Kari N. , Woodin Erica M.
Published: August 2019

It is well established that technology can be used to enact intimate partner violence (IPV). However, less is known about how cyber dating abuse (CDA) is associated with psychosocial functioning, especially when accounting for other forms of frequently co-occurring IPV victimization. The current study sought to determine the unique associations of CDA victimization when controlling for multiple forms of in-person IPV victimization. Two hundred seventy-eight men and women between 17 and 25 years of age ( M = 20.5, SD = 1.9) who were currently in an intimate relationship for at least 3 months participated in this study. Participants completed questionnaires about their IPV and CDA victimization, as well as a range of indices of psychosocial well-being. Experiencing CDA victimization was related to increased alcohol use for both men and women, and increased fear of partner for women, even after controlling for in-person IPV. For depression, perceived stress, relationship satisfaction, quality of life, social support, and post-traumatic stress, CDA victimization did not predict levels above in-person IPV victimization. Although these results suggest some unique associations between CDA victimization and aspects of psychosocial well-being that require further attention, they also highlight that CDA often occurs within a broader pattern of abuse that includes in-person IPV. These results suggest that the need for prevention and treatment for relationships that involve in-person abuse is still most salient, and that a narrow focus on CDA may limit the utility of prevention and treatment efforts. Further work is needed to integrate research on in-person and CDA victimization, rather than to create a new field of research and practice based solely on CDA.
Decision-Making and Holistic Public Defense Post-Montgomery v. Louisiana
Authors: Hussemann Jeanette , Siegel Jonah
Published: August 2019

In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Miller v. Alabama that mandatory sentences of life without the possibility of parole (LWOP) for youth are unconstitutional. In 2016, the Court held in Montgomery v. Louisiana that the ruling in Miller should be applied retroactively. Drawing from qualitative interviews with justice actors, and individuals who were sentenced to LWOP as juveniles and paroled, this article examines the implementation of Miller-Montgomery in Michigan, the factors that influence decisions to release juvenile lifers, and their reentry process. In doing so, we focus specific attention to the role of publicly appointed defense attorneys and the application of holistic defense practices to support Montgomery case mitigation and juvenile lifer reentry. Findings indicate that institutional disciplinary and programming records, emotional wellness, statements by victims’ family members, political considerations, and reentry plans are key considerations when deciding whether a juvenile lifer should be eligible for parole.
A latent class approach for joint modeling of a time-to-event outcome and multiple longitudinal biomarkers subject to limits of detection
Authors: Li Menghan , Lee Ching-Wen , Kong Lan
Published: August 2019

Multiple biomarkers on different biological pathways are often measured over time to investigate the complex mechanism of disease development and progression. Identification of informative subpopulation patterns of longitudinal biomarkers and clinical endpoint may assist in risk stratification and provide insights into new therapeutic targets. Motivated by a multicenter study to assess the inflammatory markers of sepsis in patients with community-acquired pneumonia, we propose a joint latent class analysis of multiple biomarkers and a time-to-event outcome while accounting for censored biomarker measurements due to detection limits. The interrelationship between biomarker trajectories and clinical endpoint is fully captured by a latent class structure, which reveals the subpopulation profiles of biomarkers and clinical outcome. The estimation of joint latent class models becomes more complicated when biomarkers are subject to detection limits. Based on a Metropolis–Hastings method, we develop a Monte Carlo Expectation–Maximization (MCEM) algorithm to estimate model parameters. We demonstrate the satisfactory performance of our MCEM algorithm using simulation studies, and apply our method to the motivating study to examine the heterogeneous patterns of cytokine responses to pneumonia and associated mortality risks.
Facilitators and inhibitors of international postgraduate students’ university-to-work transition
Authors: Ng Wei-Hua , Menzies Jane , Zutshi Ambika
Published: August 2019

Few studies have addressed the university-to-work transition experience of international postgraduate students. This paper contributed to the literature as it proposed a three-stage university-to-work transition framework including stages of finishing a degree, looking for a job, and working in a job. A qualitative research design with in-depth interviews was used to explore the university-to-work transition experience of eight international postgraduate students who were working full time in Australia. The international postgraduate students faced considerable stress during the first two stages. They used an array of job search strategies including networking, internships, and career workshops at university, and secured employment through networking and recommendation rather than by formal methods because they did not have permanent work visas. International postgraduate students were excited and relieved when they found a job, but faced stress when they transitioned into the workplace, and were inhibited by a lack of proper induction and their inadequate business communication skills, but were assisted through mentoring.
Person–environment fit at work: Relationships with workplace behaviours
Authors: Stone Ryan Paul , Leuty Melanie E , Rayburn Rebekah , Wu Ben H
Published: August 2019

The fit between the values of an individual and the work environment (person–organisation fit) is related to organisational citizenship behaviours and counterproductive work behaviours. Research has found that job satisfaction is a predictor of organisational citizenship behaviours and counterproductive work behaviours. Meanwhile, person–organisation fit is highly predictive of job satisfaction; thus, it is unclear if person–organisation fit relates to the use of organisational citizenship behaviours and counterproductive work behaviours beyond its shared relationship with job satisfaction. This study aimed to determine the extent to which person–organisation fit relates to the use of these behaviours outside of relations with job satisfaction. Results from an online sample of 392 employed adults found worker person–organisation fit was related directly to engaging in organisational citizenship behaviours and indirectly through increased job satisfaction. However, engagement in fewer counterproductive work behaviours occurred only as a function of being dissatisfied with one’s job. Implications about the importance of fit are discussed.
Providing Data-Driven Equitable Palliative and End-of-Life Care for Structurally Vulnerable Populations: A Pilot Survey of Information Management Strategies
Authors: Rajaram Akshay , Morey Trevor , Shah Sonam , Dosani Naheed , Mamdani Muhammad
Published: August 2019

Background:

Considerable gains are being made in data-driven efforts to advance quality improvement in health care. However, organizations providing hospice-oriented palliative care for structurally vulnerable persons with terminal illnesses may not have the enabling data infrastructure or framework to derive such benefits.

Methods:

We conducted a pilot cross-sectional qualitative study involving a convenience sample of hospice organizations across North America providing palliative care services for structurally vulnerable patients. Through semistructured interviews, we surveyed organizations on the types of data collected, the information systems used, and the challenges they faced.

Results:

We contacted 13 organizations across North America and interviewed 9. All organizations served structurally vulnerable populations, including the homeless and vulnerably housed, socially isolated, and HIV-positive patients. Common examples of collected data included the number of referrals, the number of admissions, length of stay, and diagnosis. More than half of the organizations (n = 5) used an electronic medical record, although none of the record systems were specifically designed for palliative care. All (n = 9) the organizations used the built-in reporting capacity of their information management systems and more than half (n = 6) augmented this capacity with chart reviews.

Discussion:

A number of themes emerged from our discussions. Present data collection is heterogeneous, and storage of these data is highly fragmented within and across organizations. Funding appeared to be a key enabler of more robust data collection and use. Future work should address these gaps and examine opportunities for innovative ways of analysis and reporting to improve care for structurally vulnerable populations.
Homogenization of cohesive fracture in masonry structures
Authors: Braides Andrea , Nodargi Nicola A
Published: August 2019

We derive a homogenized mechanical model of a masonry-type structure constituted by a periodic assemblage of blocks with interposed mortar joints. The energy functionals in the model under investigation consist of (i) a linear elastic contribution within the blocks, (ii) a Barenblatt’s cohesive contribution at contact surfaces between blocks, and (iii) a suitable unilateral condition on the strain across contact surfaces, and are governed by a small parameter representing the typical ratio between the length of the blocks and the dimension of the structure. Using the terminology of [Formula: see text]-convergence and within the functional setting supplied by the functions of bounded deformation, we analyze the asymptotic behavior of such energy functionals when the parameter tends to zero, and derive a simple homogenization formula for the limit energy. Furthermore, we highlight the main mathematical and mechanical properties of the homogenized energy, including its non-standard growth conditions under tension or compression. The key point in the limit process is the definition of macroscopic tensile and compressive stresses, which are determined by the unilateral conditions on contact surfaces and the geometry of the blocks.
Research on lubrication mechanism with fluid–solid coupling of port plate pair in swash plate axial piston pump
Authors: Wang Zhaoqiang , Xu Yanfei , Hu Shan , Ji Hong , Yang Jian
Published: August 2019

When a swash plate axial piston pump operates under high-pressure conditions, the valve plate will undergo warping deformation. Based on the theory of elastic fluid dynamic lubrication, this work establishes a fluid–solid coupling model of a swash plate axial piston pump and solves the governing equations of the lubrication with respect to the port plate pair. Cylinder speed, cylinder angle, fluid viscosity, oil film thickness, seal belt width, and structural parameters are also considered to observe their influence on the valve plate warpage deformation with the swash plate axial piston pump. The results show that the deformation cloud of the valve plate on the axial piston pump is symmetrical, with the axis line of the waist groove as the axis. The deformation of the outer seal zone on the high-pressure side of the valve plate is the largest, and the deformation of the outer seal zone on the low-pressure side of the valve plate is the smallest. Under the same conditions, the material and structure of the valve plate affect the thickness and shape of the oil film. This study provides a theoretical basis for the high pressure of the swash plate axial piston pump.
Beyond clinical changes: Rehabilitation-induced neuroplasticity in MS
Authors: Prosperini Luca , Di Filippo Massimiliano
Published: August 2019

Background:

Neural plasticity represents the substrate by which the damaged central nervous system (CNS) re-learns lost behaviors in response to rehabilitation. In persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), rehabilitation can therefore exploit the potential of neural plasticity to restore CNS functions beyond the spontaneous mechanisms of recovery from MS-related damage.

Methods:

Here, we reviewed the currently available evidence on the occurrence of mechanisms of structural and functional plasticity following rehabilitation, motor, and/or cognitive training. We presented both data gained from basic laboratory research on animal models and data on persons with MS obtained by advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques.

Results:

Studies on physical and environmental enrichment in experimental MS models showed beneficial effects mediated by both immune modulation and activity-dependent plasticity, lowering tissue destruction and restoring of CNS network function. Translational researches in MS people demonstrated structural and/or functional MRI changes after various interventions, but their heterogeneity and small sample sizes (5–42 patients) raise concerns about the interpretation and generalization of the obtained results.

Discussion:

We highlighted the limitations of published studies, focusing on the knowledge gaps to be filled in terms of neuropathological correlations between changes detected in animal models and changes detected in vivo by neuroimaging.
Beyond rehabilitation: A prevention model of reserve and brain maintenance in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Brandstadter Rachel , Katz Sand Ilana , Sumowski James F
Published: August 2019

Persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience cognitive and physical decline despite more effective disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and symptomatic treatments currently have limited efficacy. The best treatment of MS disability may, therefore, be prevention of decline. Here, we present a working model of reserve and brain maintenance, with a focus on modifiable risk and protective factors. At disease onset, patients have varying degrees of reserve, broadly conceptualized as the dynamic availability of cerebral resources to support functional capacity. A clinical focus on prevention aims to minimize factors that deplete reserve (e.g. disease burden, comorbidities) and maximize factors that preserve reserve (e.g. DMTs, cardiovascular health). We review evidence for cardiovascular health, diet, and sleep as three potentially important modifiable factors that may modulate cerebral reserve generally, but also in disease-specific ways. We frame the brain as a limited capacity system in which inefficient usage of available cerebral capacity (reserve) leads to or exacerbates functional deficits, and we provide examples of factors that may lead to such inefficiency (e.g. poor mood, obesity, cognitive-motor dual-tasking). Finally, we discuss the challenges and responsibilities of MS neurologists and patients in pursuing comprehensive brain maintenance as a preventive approach.
Repeated reproduction: Back to Bartlett. A French replication of narrative and an extension to proverbs
Authors: Mercier Pauline , Kalampalikis Nikos
Published: August 2019

The objective of this article is to replicate, for the first time in the French language, an original experiment of F.C. Bartlett (1920, 1932/1997) with the same narrative he used: “The War of the Ghosts”. Work on proverbs describes it as a matter socially elaborate calling on a practical thought. Thereby, in addition, this article proposes to study proverbs from a psychosocial point of view by using the method of repeated reproduction. Even if the proverb and the story are similar in their characteristics, they differ in their lengths and when one uses more the implicit, the other uses more the metaphor. The third objective is the comparison between memory processes for the proverb and the story. Eighteen dyads met twice to reconstruct their memories of these materials. The results highlight the importance of the cultural dimension in reconstructing memory and confirm that the strangeness of the proverb and narrative complicates their understanding. They also reveal similarities and differences in the processes of reconstructing the narrative through the different replicas of the original experiment.
Data source combination for tourism demand forecasting
Authors: Hu Mingming , Song Haiyan
Published: August 2019

Search engine data are of considerable interest to researchers for their utility in predicting human behaviour. Recently, search engine data have also been used to predict tourism demand (TD). Models developed based on such data generate more accurate forecasts of TD than pure time-series models. The aim of this article is to examine whether combining causal variables with search engine data can further improve the forecasting performance of search engine data models. Based on an artificial neural network framework, 168 observations during 2005–2018 for short-haul travel from Hong Kong to Macau are involved in the test, and the empirical results suggest that search engine data models with causal variables outperform models without causal variables and other benchmark models.
Another platform and a changed context: Student experiences of developing spontaneous speaking in French through physical education
Authors: Lamb Penny , King Graham
Published: August 2019

This study highlights a complementary partnership between physical education and foreign language learning, endorsing the potential of an applied learning context as an alternative pedagogical platform. A pedagogic model of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) within physical education was adopted to explore the capacity for improving students’ spontaneous speaking in French. The study’s motivation was the 2016 changes to England’s General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) French specifications, which placed an increased emphasis on responding spontaneously in spoken French and sustaining communication in different situations. Students ( n = 42) aged 13–14, soon to embark on GCSE French, were introduced to a 10-week handball scheme of work that included learning associated key French vocabulary and students communicating with each other and the teacher in French. Adopting case study methodology, data collection included student questionnaires, individual teacher interviews and student focus groups, analysed using inductive analysis and constant comparison. The physical education CLIL platform provided a learning context that appeared to support student perceptions of increased motivation and reduced anxiety, with 60% of students reporting that speaking French during physical education increased their confidence in speaking French aloud. Findings suggest the importance of an applied learning environment that emphasises working as a group, encouraging a willingness to take risks in spontaneous speaking, and decreasing sensitivity to negative judgement. A physical education-located CLIL model appears to offer learning experiences within the skill-based traditions of physical education beyond ‘learning to move’, providing a context for ‘moving to learn’ as an investment towards embodied learning.
Disability and the Hebrew Bible: A Survey and Appraisal
Authors: Melcher Sarah
Published: August 2019

This article provides an overview and analysis of some significant studies on disability in the Hebrew Bible. The discussion of scholarly works proceeds chronologically, from earlier to later publications. Many different methods are applied in these studies, representing various types of biblical criticisms as well as approaches gleaned from disability studies. All have merit, but the most helpful of these combine a working knowledge of disability studies with historical and literary criticisms as practiced by skilled biblical scholars. Some of these authors contend that cultural criticism is the best approach borrowed from disability studies. While this article surveys these analyses holistically, in the case of anthologies, two or more exemplary essays are lifted out for consideration. These serve as examples of the types of investigations that are being done in the field of disability studies and the Bible.
Computational Methodology for the Allocation of Work and Interaction in Human-Robot Teams
Authors: IJtsma Martijn , Ma Lanssie M. , Pritchett Amy R. , Feigh Karen M.
Published: August 2019

This paper presents a three-phase computational methodology for making informed design decisions when determining the allocation of work and the interaction modes for human-robot teams. The methodology highlights the necessity to consider constraints and dependencies in the work and the work environment as a basis for team design, particularly those dependencies that arise within the dynamics of the team’s collective activities. These constraints and dependencies form natural clusters in the team’s work, which drive the team’s performance and behavior. The proposed methodology employs network visualization and computational simulation of work models to identify dependencies resulting from the interplay of taskwork distributed between teammates, teamwork, and the work environment. Results from these analyses provide insight into not only team efficiency and performance, but also quantified measures of required teamwork, communication, and physical interaction. The paper describes each phase of the methodology in detail and demonstrates each phase with a case study examining the allocation of work in a human-robot team for space operations.
Applying Action Research in a Mixed Methods Positive Body Image Program Assessment With Older Adults and People With Physical Disability and Chronic Illness
Authors: Bailey K. Alysse , Gammage Kimberley L.
Published: August 2019

Action research is a methodology seldom used within both body image and mixed methods research. The current study is an application of action research to a 6-week mixed methods assessment of a positive body image program. Eighteen participants (14 women, 4 men) completed questionnaires pre–post intervention and at a 6-week follow-up. Sixteen participants completed individual interviews. Using mixed methods, participants’ positive body image was found to significantly improve and be sustained 6-weeks later. A multidimensional mixed methods research finding was an increase in participants’ positive body image and decrease in negative body image. This article highlights the versatility of mixed methods as it integrated well with an action research approach and fueled the interpretation of findings in a heterogeneous sample.
Decoding spatial location of perceived pain to acupuncture needle using multivoxel pattern analysis
Authors: Jung Won-Mo , Lee In-Seon , Lee Ye-Seul , Kim Junsuk , Park Hi-Joon , Wallraven Christian , Chae Younbyoung
Published: August 2019

The present study applied multivoxel pattern analysis to decode spatial discrimination in pain perception to acupuncture needle from brain functional magnetic resonance image. Fourteen participants were stimulated by acupuncture needles at two adjacent body parts on their left forearm (PC6 vs. HT7). We trained support vector machines on the spatial information from the whole-brain functional magnetic resonance imaging data and projected the support vector machine weight to the brain image space to represent the effect of each voxel on the classifier output. Using region-of-interest masks in individual brains, we trained and tested a linear support vector machine classifier on the accuracy of spatial discrimination in trial-wise functional magnetic resonance imaging data. A classical univariate general linear model analysis testing for differences between the two different locations did not reveal any significant differences. Multivoxel pattern analysis revealed that the brain regions for the prediction of sensory discrimination in pain perceptions to two different points were in the primary somatosensory cortex, primary motor cortex, and supramarginal gyrus, anterior and posterior insula, anterior and posterior cingulate cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and inferior parietal lobule. Our findings suggest that spatial localizations of pain perceptions to acupuncture needle can be predicted by the neural response patterns in the somatosensory areas and the frontoparietal areas.
Stroke-related complications in large hemisphere infarction: incidence and influence on unfavorable outcome
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Ping , Wu Simiao , Wang Yanfen , Zhou Ju , Yi Xingyang , Wang Chun
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Neurological and medical complications are major causes of morbidity and mortality after ischemic stroke. This study aimed to identify the incidence of stroke-related complications following large hemisphere infarction (LHI) and to explore their influence on unfavorable outcome in LHI patients.

Methods:

We prospectively enrolled consecutive patients with LHI. The unfavorable outcome was defined as an modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 4–6 at 3 months. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the stroke-related complications associated with unfavorable outcome.

Results:

Of the 256 cases with LHI included, 41 (16.0%) died during hospitalization, 94 (36.7%) died and 140 (55.3%) patients had unfavorable outcome at 3 months. A total of 194 (75.8%) had at least one complication. The three most common medical complications were pneumonia (53.5%), electrolyte disorder (30.9%), and urinary incontinence (18.4%), and the three most common neurological complications were malignant brain edema (31.2%), hemorrhagic transformation (27.7%), and poststroke seizures (7.0%). Overall, LHI patients with unfavorable outcome had more frequent stroke-related complications (91.4% versus 55.8%, p < 0.001) than patients with favorable outcome. After adjusting for age, baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, and other confounders, only malignant brain edema [odds ratios (OR) 19.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.73–82.45] and pneumonia (OR 2.45, 95% CI 1.11–5.40) were independently associated with 3-month unfavorable outcome in patients with LHI.

Conclusions:

More than three-quarters of LHI patients have at least one stroke-related complication. LHI patients with the unfavorable outcome had stroke-related complications more frequently, whereas only malignant brain edema and pneumonia are independently associated with 3-month unfavorable outcome.
Entrepreneurial human capital, role models, and fear of failure and start-up perception of feasibility among adults in Vietnam
Authors: Van Trang Tran , Do Quang Hung , Luong Minh Huan
Published: August 2019

Although various studies have been conducted to examine the role of human capital, role models, and fear of failure in the entrepreneurial process, the results reveal inconsistencies. Moreover, the relationship between them and their role in explaining the perceived feasibility of starting a new business still has no clear answer. Based on the adult survey data of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor in Vietnam 2017/2018, the study find that having entrepreneurial knowledge, skills, and experience and knowing an entrepreneur are positively associated with the individual’s perception of feasibility to start a new business; whereas, the fear of failure do not have a direct significant effect on it. However, the influence of fear of failure on perception of starting a firm is strongly negative effect as moderating by educational attainment. Individuals with personal entrepreneurial connection and gaining entrepreneurship knowledge, skill, and experience have reduced the fear of business failure. The contribution of this study is twofold. First, it provides empirical evidence on the relationship between human capital, role models, fear of failure, and entrepreneurial feasibility. Second, it contributes to the understanding of entrepreneurship environment in Vietnam, a communist country still existing today.
Undaria pinnatifida Fucoidan-Rich Extract Induces Both Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses
Authors: Lee Hwan H. , Cho Yoo J. , Yu Daeung , Chung Donghwa , Kim Gun-Hee , Kang Hyojeung , Cho Hyosun
Published: August 2019

Fucoidans are widely used as an ingredient of dietary supplements. We investigated the immune stimulatory activities of Undaria pinnatifida ( Alariaceae) fucoidan-rich extract (UPF-RE) in vitro as well as in vivo . In vitro, the extract stimulated Raw 264.7 cells to produce significant nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6). It also induced the proliferation of primary mouse splenocytes and the secretion of IL-4, which correlated with the phosphorylation of Extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) protein. In in vivo experiments, first, 50 mg/kg of 3 different types of UPF-RE, DSU02, DSU02L (low molecular weight, <3 kDa), and DSU02H (high molecular weight, >10 kDa), were orally administered to C57BL/6 mice. After 14 days, the frequencies of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells and NK cells from each group were analyzed. Plasma concentrations of TNF-α and IFN-γ were determined. The frequencies of CD3+ and CD4+ showed a statistically significant increase in splenocytes isolated from the DSU02 and DSU02H groups. Also, there was significant production of TNF-α and IFN-γ from the DSU02 group. Second, 3 different concentrations of DSU02 (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) were orally administered. After 14 days, the proliferative capacity of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells was investigated, and the plasma concentrations of IgM and total IgG were determined. Plasma concentration of IgM from the DSU02 150 mg/kg group was statistically significantly higher compared with that from the other groups. We suggest that UPF-RE could be a good candidate for a natural immune stimulator to induce innate as well as adaptive immune responses.
Human Neutrophil Elastase Induces MUC5AC Overexpression in Chronic Rhinosinusitis Through miR-146a
Authors: Yan Danqing , Ye Yu , Zhang Jian , Zhao Junmei , Yu Jieqing , Luo Qing
Published: August 2019

Background

The pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is not yet clear. microRNAs are widely involved in a number of physiological and pathological processes, of which microRNA-146a (miR-146a) plays an important role in innate immunity, inflammatory response, and other pathophysiological processes. Mucins (MUCs) are important components of secreted mucus, of which MUC5AC is the major MUC secreted in the normal airway.

Objective

This study was performed to examine human neutrophil elastase (HNE)-induced MUC5AC overexpression in CRS via miR-146a.

Methods

miR-146a, HNE, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and MUC5AC expression in the sinonasal mucosa were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). EGFR, phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR), and MUC5AC expression were determined in primary cultures of human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs). We examined the expression of miR-146a, MUC5AC, EGFR, and pEGFR by transfecting HNECs with miR-146a mimics and negative control (NC). Moreover, dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were used to validate EGFR as an hsa-miR-146a target gene.

Results

miR-146a was significantly downregulated, and HNE, EGFR, and MUC5AC were upregulated in CRS patients both with and without nasal polyps. In the in vitro cell experiment, MUC5AC was significantly downregulated after use of an EGFR-specific inhibitor (AG1478). Upon addition of miR-146a inhibitor, miR-146a was downregulated, while MUC5AC was upregulated. MUC5AC was suppressed in normal primary HNECs by miR-146a mimic and pEGFR was downregulated. The results of dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that the luciferase activities were markedly inhibited in the pGL3-EGFR-3′ UTR+miR-146a mimic group compared with the pGL3+ miR-146a mimic group, suggesting that EGFR is a target gene for miR-146a.

Conclusion

In HNE-induced CRS, miR-146a downregulates the expression of MUC5AC by inhibiting the activation of EGFR, and EGFR is a target gene of miR-146a.
Epidemiology and initial management of pulmonary arterial hypertension: real‐world data from the Hellenic pulmOnary hyPertension rEgistry (HOPE)
Authors: Arvanitaki Alexandra , Boutsikou Maria , Anthi Anastasia , Apostolopoulou Sotiria , Avgeropoulou Aikaterini , Demerouti Eftychia , Farmakis Dimitrios , Feloukidis Christos , Giannakoulas George , Karvounis Haralambos , Karyofyllis Panagiotis , Mitrouska Ioanna , Mouratoglou Sophia , Naka Katerina K. , Orfanos Stylianos E. , Panagiotidou Evangelia , Pitsiou Georgia , Rammos Spyridon , Stagaki Eleni , Stanopoulos Ioannis , Thomaidi Adina , Triantafyllidi Helen , Tsangaris Iraklis , Tsiapras Dimitrios , Voudris Vassilios , Manginas Athanasios ,   Hellenic Society for the Study of Pulmonary Hypertension (HSSPH)
Published: August 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a heterogenous clinical entity with poor prognosis, despite recent major pharmacological advances. To increase awareness about the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and management of the disease, large national registries are required. The Hellenic pulmOnary hyPertension rEgistry (HOPE) was launched in early 2015 and enrolls patients from all pulmonary hypertension subgroups in Greece. Baseline epidemiologic, diagnostic, and initial treatment data of consecutive patients with PAH are presented in this article. In total, 231 patients with PAH were enrolled from January 2015 until April 2018. At baseline, about half of patients with PAH were in World Health Organization functional class II. The majority of patients with PAH (56.7%) were at intermediate 1‐year mortality risk, while more than one‐third were low‐risk patients, according to an abbreviated risk stratification score. Half of patients with PAH were on monotherapy, 38.9% received combination therapy, while prostanoids were used only in 12.1% of patients. In conclusion, baseline data of the Greek PAH population share common characteristics, but also have some differences with other registries, the most prominent being a better functional capacity. This may reflect earlier diagnosis of PAH that in conjunction with the increased proportion of patients with atypical PAH could partially explain the preference for monotherapy and the limited use of prostanoids in Greece. Nevertheless, early, advanced specific therapy is strongly recommended.
Relative Leader-Member Exchange Within Work Groups: The Mediating Effect of Leader-Member Conversation Quality on Group-Focused Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Abu Bakar Hassan , Connaughton Stacey L.
Published: August 2019

We introduce a multilevel model that examines how and when relative leader-member exchange (RLMX) within the work group associates with group members’ commitment and organizational citizenship behavior. Results of the study are based on data gathered from a sample of 155 leader-member dyads within 25 work groups in a Malaysian organization and provide support for the hypotheses. Specifically, the results obtained from the analysis of a hierarchical linear modeling showed that leader-member conversation quality mediates the relationship between RLMX and group-focused citizenship behavior. The findings suggest that the relative group members’ ratings of leader-member exchange have the ability to influence the quality of leader-member conversation and that this positive relationship of RLMX on group-focused citizenship behavior is contingent on the direct and indirect effect of leader-member conversation quality.
Servant Leadership: A systematic literature review—toward a model of antecedents and outcomes
Authors: Langhof Jan G , Güldenberg Stefan
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this article is multi-layered. First, we focus on gaining a comprehensive insight into a research area which just recently received more recognition in management literature: servant leadership. Second, we identify antecedent and outcomes of servant leadership within the existing research body. Third, we synthesize and develop a comprehensive servant leadership model. It assists academics and practitioners in keeping pace with the increasing servant leadership literature. The systematic literature review provides explanations as to why managers practice servant leadership. The study also contributes to a better understanding of the outcomes of servant leadership and brings clarity to a discombobulated group of studies.
Mobility and its discontents: Seeing beyond international space and progressive time
Authors: McNevin Anne
Published: August 2019

Why do international space and progressive time continue to be taken as the given foundations for the conditions under which mobility can be governed? Despite a long-standing critique of prevailing geopolitical and chronopolitical assumptions, these space–time parameters exhibit extraordinary tenacity. This article grapples with the reasons why. It also asks what it would it take to imagine a future in which questions about human mobility did not begin with the assumptions of international space and progressive time, or by extension, with premises associated with borders, citizens and migrants. Engaging with scholarship that attempts to provide conceptual, analytical and methodological resources to begin to imagine differently, the paper raises some cautions about the ubiquity of mobility as a framework through which to initiate such a project. It looks to a variety of historical and contemporary social movements – including but not only those associated with migrants – as a basis for inquiry into new horizons of the possible.
Positive association between baseline brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity and the risk of new-onset diabetes in hypertensive patients
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , He Panpan , Li Youbao , Zhang Yan , Li Jianping , Liang Min , Wang Guobao , Tang Genfu , Song Yun , Wang Binyan , Liu Chengzhang , Liu Lishun , Cui Yimin , Wang Xiaobin , Huo Yong , Xu Xiping , Qin Xianhui
Published: August 2019

Background

There is no clearly defined temporal relationship between arterial stiffness and diabetes. We aimed to investigate the prospective association between baseline brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and the risk of new-onset diabetes during follow-up, and examined whether there were effect modifiers, in hypertensive patients.

Methods

We included 2429 hypertensive patients with all the pertinent data but without diabetes at the baseline, who were part of the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT), a randomized, double-blind, actively controlled trial conducted in 32 communities in Anhui and Jiangsu provinces in China. The primary outcome was new-onset diabetes, defined as physician-diagnosed diabetes or use of glucose-lowering drugs during follow-up, or fasting glucose (FG) ≥ 126.0 mg/dL at the exit visit.

Results

During a median follow-up duration of 4.5 years, 287 (11.8%) participants developed diabetes. There was a significant positive association between baseline baPWV and the risk of new-onset diabetes (per SD increment; OR, 1.33; 95% CI 1.13, 1.56). Consistently, when baPWV was assessed as quartiles, a significantly higher risk of new-onset diabetes was found in participants in quartiles 2–4 (≥ 15.9 m/s; OR, 1.80; 95% CI 1.22, 2.65) compared with those in quartile 1 (< 15.9 m/s). The positive association was consistent in participants with (per SD increment; OR, 1.29; 95% CI 1.06, 1.56) or without (per SD increment; OR, 1.40; 95% CI 1.15, 1.71) impaired fasting glucose (IFG, FG ≥ 100.8 and < 126.0 mg/dL, P-interaction = 0.486).

Conclusions

In this sample of hypertensive patients, we found a significant positive association between baseline baPWV and the risk of new-onset diabetes.

Clinical trial registration Trial registration: NCT00794885 (clinicaltrials.gov). Retrospectively registered November 20, 2008