bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Two-Stage Joint Optimization Problem of Green Manufacturing and Maintenance for Semiconductor Wafer
Authors: Dong Jun , Ye Chunming
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a two-stage joint optimization problem of green manufacturing and maintenance for semiconductor wafer (TSGMM-SW) considering manufacturing stage, inspection, and repair stage simultaneously, which is a typical NP-hard problem with practical research significance and value. Aiming at this problem, a green scheduling model with the objective of minimizing makespan, total carbon emissions, and total preventive maintenance (PM) costs is constructed, and an improved hybrid multiobjective multiverse optimization (IHMMVO) algorithm is proposed in this paper. The joint optimization of green manufacturing and maintenance is realized by designing synchronous scheduling and maintenance strategy for wafer manufacturing and equipment PM. The diversity of the population is expanded and the optimization performance of IHMMVO is improved by designing the initial population fusion strategy and subpopulation evolution strategy. In the experimental phase, we perform the simulation experiments of 900 test cases randomly generated from 90 parameter combinations. The IHMMVO algorithm is compared with other existing algorithms to verify the effectiveness and feasibility for TSGMM-SW.
A Comparative Study between Ultrasound Cycloplasty and Cyclocryotherapy for the Treatment of Neovascular Glaucoma
Authors: Ruixue Wang , Tao Wang , Ning Li
Published: January 2020

Purpose. To compare the clinical efficacy, safety, and histological effect between ultrasound cycloplasty (UCP) and cyclocryotherapy in the treatment of neovascular glaucoma. Methods. Two groups of neovascular glaucoma patients who underwent two types of treatment, respectively, namely, 26 patients treated by UCP and 23 by cyclocryotherapy, were treated and observed during the clinical study for six months. The primary outcome was evaluated by the surgical success, which was defined as the intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of greater than or equal to 20% from the baseline and the IOP value of greater than 5 mmHg at the last follow-up. The secondary outcome referred to pain relief, complications, and the mean of the IOP at each follow-up. In the animal experiment, 18 New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups and treated by UCP and cyclocryotherapy, respectively. The changes in the tissues and in the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) were observed immediately. Results. The mean IOP baseline for the UCP and cyclocryotherapy groups was 54.6 ± 9.7 mmHg and 53.3 ± 11.7 mmHg, respectively. After six months of follow-up, the IOP value decreased to 30.3 ± 9.4 mmHg for the patients treated by UCP and to 30.4 ± 9.1 mmHg for those treated by cyclocryotherapy. The two groups achieved a satisfying success rate in the treatment of neovascular glaucoma of up to 70% at least. Vision impairment was observed in some patients treated with cyclocryotherapy, and these patients suffered from more complications and less pain relief than the patients who were treated with UCP. The histological study showed that the ciliary body was completely destroyed after cyclocryotherapy and that MMP-1 was found only in the ciliary muscle. After the UCP treatment, MMP-1 could still be found in the ciliary body, and only the double-layer epithelial cells presented with coagulative necrosis. Conclusion. The UCP treatment and cyclocryotherapy both showed good efficacy in significantly reducing the IOP. However, the UCP treatment was safer with less postoperative complications and adverse effects. Thus, the overall treatment effect of the UCP was more efficient than that of cyclocryotherapy.
Electrochemical and Thermodynamic Investigation on Corrosion Inhibition of C38 Steel in 1M Hydrochloric Acid Using the Hydro-Alcoholic Extract of Used Coffee Grounds
Authors: Bouhlal Fatima , Labjar Najoua , Abdoun Farah , Mazkour Aimad , Serghini-Idrissi Malika , El Mahi Mohammed , Lotfi El Mostapha , El Hajjaji Souad
Published: January 2020

The present work investigates the influence of temperature on C38 steel corrosion in a 1 M HCl medium with and without different concentrations of a hydro-alcoholic extract of used coffee grounds (HECG). The potentiodynamic polarization technique and the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were performed in temperatures ranging from 293.15 to 323.15 K. It was observed that the inhibition efficiency decreased with increased temperature and inhibitor concentration. The HECG adsorption process on C38 steel surface was found to be spontaneous and obeyed to Langmuir isotherm at all studied temperatures. The associated thermodynamic parameters of adsorption led to suggest the occurrence of physical adsorption of the HECG compounds on the C38 steel surface.
Critical Phenomena of Charged AdS Black Holes in Rastall Gravity
Authors: Zou De-Cheng , Zhang Ming , Wu Chao , Yue Rui-Hong
Published: January 2020

We construct analytical charged anti-de Sitter (AdS) black holes surrounded by perfect fluids in four dimensional Rastall gravity. Then, we discuss the thermodynamics and phase transitions of charged AdS black holes immersed in regular matter like dust and radiation, or exotic matter like quintessence, ΛCDM type, and phantom fields. Surrounded by phantom field, the charged AdS black hole demonstrates a new phenomenon of reentrant phase transition (RPT) when the parameters Q, Np, and ψ satisfy some certain condition, along with the usual small/large black hole (SBH/LBH) phase transition for the surrounding dust, radiation, quintessence, and cosmological constant fields.
Growth and Decay of a Planktonic Microbial Culture
Authors: Schiraldi Alberto
Published: January 2020

The paper shows that the phenomenological trends of both growth and decay of a microbial population in a given medium are easily reproducible with simple equations that allow gathering the experimental data (plate counts) related to different microbial species, in different mediums and even at different temperatures, in a single master plot. The guideline of the proposed approach is that microbes and surrounding medium form a system where they affect each other and that the so-called “growth curve” is just the phenomenological appearance of such interaction. The whole system (cells and medium) changes following a definite pathway described as the evolution of a “virtual” microbial population in planktonic conditions. The proposed equations come from the assumption of a duplication mechanism with a variable generation time for the growth and of an exponential-like decline with a linear increase of the rate for the decay. The intermediate phase between growth and decay is a time span during which growth and death counterbalance each other and age differences within the virtual cell population tend to level off. The proposed approach does not provide an a priori description of this phase but allows the fit of the whole evolution trend of a microbial culture whenever the experimental data are available. Deviations of such a trend concern microbes able to form spores, modify their metabolism, or express phenotypic heterogeneity, to counterbalance adverse medium conditions.
Research and Software Design of an Φ-OTDR-Based Optical Fiber Vibration Recognition Algorithm
Authors: Tabi Fouda Bernard Marie , Han Dezhi , An Bowen , Chen Xiangzhi
Published: January 2020

Distributed optical fiber vibration signal plays a significant role in the communication and safety of any perimeter security monitoring system. It uses light as an information carrier and optical fiber as a means of signal transmission and communication. Phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (Φ-OTDR) is used to detect the signals generated during events (intrusions or nonintrusion). This paper proposes the time-frequency characteristic (TFC) method for the recognition of the fiber vibration signal and designs and implements the corresponding software function module. The combination of time-domain features and time-frequency-domain features is called TFC; and it is based on the Hilbert transform and on the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) of time-frequency entropy and center-of-gravity frequency that is described. A feature vector is formed, and multiple types of probabilistic neural networks (PNNs) are performed on it to determine whether intrusion events occur. The experimental simulation results show that the monitoring system software can intelligently display the data collected in real time, which demonstrates that the proposed method is effective and reliable in identifying and classifying accurately the types of events. The data processing time is less than 2 s, and the accuracy of the system identification can reach 99%, which ensures the system’s validity.
Effectiveness of Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® LOUD on Japanese-Speaking Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Nakayama Keigo , Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Oda Chihiro , Sato Masako , Murakami Takeshi , Horiguchi Satoshi
Published: January 2020

Background. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® LOUD (LSVT®) is an intensive program devised in the United States to train patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to speak louder, at normal intensity, while keeping a good voice quality. Four weeks of LSVT® has been shown to increase vocal loudness and improve intelligibility among Japanese-speaking PD patients. However, the long-term effects of LSVT® have not been examined in these patients. Objective. This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of LSVT® on Japanese-speaking PD patients. Methods. Twenty-one Japanese PD patients underwent a standardized course (four sessions over four consecutive days, for four weeks) of LSVT® at our hospital. Vocal loudness and intelligibility were assessed at the following three time-points: pretreatment (baseline), immediately after treatment, and at the end of the 12 month follow-up (12FU). Sound pressure levels (dB SPL) were measured during the following tasks: sustained phonation of /a/, reading a standardized text, and delivery of a monologue. Three experienced speech-language pathologists, who were blinded to patients’ identities and assessment points, assessed speech intelligibility based on recorded audio samples of each participant during the reading and monologue tasks. Results. Fourteen patients were evaluated at 12FU. Changes in dB SPL from baseline to immediately after treatment were +6.5 dB, +4.2 dB, and +2.8 dB, and those from baseline until 12FU were +4.7 dB, +3.5 dB, and +2.5 dB in sustained phonation of /a/, reading a passage, and delivery of a monologue, respectively. These changes were significant (p < 0.025) in both the baseline-to-immediately-after-treatment and baseline-to-12FU intervals. Intelligibility relative to baseline was significantly improved immediately after treatment, but not at 12FU. Conclusions. LSVT® had a long-term effect on the vocal loudness of Japanese-speaking PD patients. A short-term effect was seen in intelligibility, however, there was no significant long-term effect.
A Biomechanical Comparison of Two Techniques of Latarjet Procedure in Cadaveric Shoulders
Authors: Prinja Aditya , Raymond Antony , Pimple Mahesh
Published: January 2020

Traumatic anterior instability of the shoulder is commonly treated with the Latarjet procedure, which involves transfer of the coracoid process with a conjoint tendon to the anterior aspect of the glenoid. The two most common techniques of the Latarjet are the classical and congruent arc techniques. The aim of this study was to evaluate the difference in force required to dislocate the shoulder after classical and congruent arc Latarjet procedures were performed. Fourteen cadaveric shoulders were dissected and osteotomised to produce a bony Bankart lesion of 25% of the articular surface leading to an “inverted pear-shaped” glenoid. An anteroinferior force was applied whilst the arm was in abduction and external rotation using a pulley system. The force needed to dislocate was noted, and then the shoulders underwent coracoid transfer with the classical and congruent arc techniques. The average force required to dislocate the shoulder after osteotomy was 123.57 N. After classical Latarjet, the average force required was 325.71 N, compared with 327.14 N after the congruent arc technique. This was not statistically significant. In this biomechanical cadaveric study, there is no difference in the force required to dislocate a shoulder after classical and congruent arc techniques of Latarjet, suggesting that both methods are equally effective at preventing anterior dislocation in the position of abduction and external rotation.
The Role of Angiogenesis Factors in the Formation of Vascular Changes in Scleroderma by Assessment of the Concentrations of VEGF and sVEGFR2 in Blood Serum and Tear Fluid
Authors: Waszczykowska Arleta , Goś Roman , Waszczykowska Elżbieta , Dziankowska-Bartkowiak Bożena , Podgórski Michał , Jurowski Piotr
Published: January 2020

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by tissue hypoxia, excessive fibrosis of skin and internal organs, and angiogenesis imbalance. The aim of the study was to evaluate in SSc patients the association between the retinal microcirculation disturbances and the presence of peripheral trophic changes and to determine the role of angiogenesis factors in the formation of vascular changes in scleroderma. Twenty-five SSc patients and 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included to the study. Assay of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble VEGF receptor-2 (sVEGFR-2) in blood serum and tears was done for all patients and controls using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Retinal blood circulation was investigated with fluorescein angiography (FA) in the SSc patients only. In our research, proportion of mainly hypertensive patients presenting with a large spectrum of retinal microvascular lesions was 72%, while proportion of patients with skin microvascular lesions within distal phalanxes of fingers and toes was 76%. We noticed that patients with pathological changes in the FA examination had finger ulcerations significantly more often than patients without changes in the eye fundus. There were no statistically significant differences in the serum concentration of VEGF and sVEGFR2 between subjects in both analyzed groups. Analysis of lower levels of VEGF (p=<0.001) and sVEGFR-2 (p=<0.001) in blood serum accompanied by simultaneous higher levels of VEGF/sVEGFR-2 ratio in tears of SSc patients, as compared with the control group, indicates the superiority of proangiogenic factors in patients’ tears.
Modeling, Analysis, and Implementation of Series-Series Compensated Inductive Coupled Power Transfer (ICPT) System for an Electric Vehicle
Authors: Elwalaty Moustapha , Jemli Mohamed , Ben Azza Hechmi
Published: January 2020

This paper focuses on the modeling and implementation of an Electric Vehicle (EV) wireless charging system based on inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) technique where electrical energy can be wirelessly transferred from source to vehicle battery. In fact, the wireless power transfer (WPT) system can solve the fundamental problems of the electric vehicle, which are the short battery life of the EV due to limited battery storage and the user safety by handling high voltage cables. In addition, this paper gives an equivalent electrical circuit of the DC-DC converter for WPT and comprises some basic components, which include the H-bridge inverter, inductive coupling transformer, filter, and rectifier. The input impedance of ICPT with series-series compensation circuit, their phases, and the power factor are calculated and plotted by using Matlab scripts programming for different air gap values between the transmitter coil and receiver coil. The simulation results indicate that it is important to operate the system in the resonance state to transfer the maximum real power from the source to the load. A mathematical expression of optimal equivalent load resistance, corresponding to a maximal transmission efficiency of a wireless charging system, was demonstrated in detail. Finally, a prototype of a wireless charging system has been constructed for using two rectangular coils. The resonant frequency of the designed system with a 500 × 200 mm transmitter coil and a 200 × 100 mm receiver coil is 10 kHz. By carefully adjusting the circuit parameters, the implementation prototype have been successfully transferred a 100 W load power through 10 cm air gap between the coils.
In Vivo Antimalarial Activity of 80% Methanol and Aqueous Bark Extracts of Terminalia brownii Fresen. (Combretaceae) against Plasmodium berghei in Mice
Authors: Biruk Hana , Sentayehu Biruk , Alebachew Yonatan , Tamiru Wondmagegn , Ejigu Abebe , Assefa Solomon
Published: January 2020

Background. Despite a substantial scientific progress over the past two decades, malaria continues to be a worldwide burden. Evergrowing resistance towards the currently available antimalarial drugs is a challenge to combat malaria. Medicinal plants are a promising source of new drugs to tackle this problem. Thus, the present study aimed at evaluating the antiplasmodial activity of Terminalia brownii in Plasmodium berghei infected mice. Methods. A 4-day suppressive test was employed to evaluate the antimalarial effect of 80% methanol and aqueous bark extracts of T. brownii against P. berghei in Swiss albino mice. Results. The in vivo acute toxicity test indicated that both extracts of T. brownii did not cause mortality. The 4-day early infection test revealed that the 80% methanol and aqueous extracts exhibited a significant inhibition of parasitemia p<0.001 compared to negative control. The maximum level of chemosuppression (60.2%) was exhibited at 400 mg/kg dose of 80% methanol extract. Moreover, the 80% methanol extract showed a significant p<0.001 attenuation of anemia associated with infection in a dose-dependent manner. The aqueous extract, on the other hand, exhibited a percent inhibition of 51.1% at the highest dose (400 mg/kg/day). Conclusion. The present study indicated that hydromethanolic and aqueous bark extracts of T. brownii possess a promising antimalarial activity, with higher effect exhibited by the hydromethanolic extract.
The Predictive Value of NT-Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide for Risk of Pneumonia in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Guo Man , Cao Xuesen , Shen Bo , Geng Xuemei , Chen Rongyi , Gong Shaomin , Ding Xiaoqiang , Xiang Fangfang , Zou Jianzhou
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims: Pneumonia is a common type of infection in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients, while the treatment and prevention progress still keep limited. N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is an important marker in reflecting cardiac failure which also is a risk factor for pneumonia. This study aimed to determine the possible predictive value of NT-proBNP for pneumonia in MHD patients. Methods: In this prospective study, the basic information of 276 MHD patients was collected in Fudan university Zhongshan hospital, followed up for 1 year. The primary endpoint was the first pneumonia event during follow-up. The value of NT-proBNP in patients with pneumonia and without pneumonia was analyzed, to elucidate the predictive value of the NT-proBNP in hemodialysis patients with pneumonia. Results: Two hundred and seventy-six patients were finally enrolled in this prospective study, including 170 men. The mean age was 59.7 ± 14.0 years old. The average duration of hemodialysis is 56 (30–82.8) months. Enrolled patients were followed up for 1 year. During follow-up, 38 patients got pneumonia. After adjustment for other confounding factors, age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.031, 95% CI 1.003–1.060, p = 0.028), log NT-proBNP (HR 2.512, 95% CI 1.124–5.612, p = 0.025), history of smoking (HR 6.326, 95% CI 2.505–15.974, p < 0.001), β2-microglobin (HR 1.042, 95% CI 1.007–1.079, p = 0.019), and history of cerebrovascular disease (HR 2.303, 95% CI 1.107–4.719, p = 0.026) were independent predictors of pneumonia. Receiver operating characteristic curves of log NT-proBNP to predict 1 year pneumonia cases, log NT-proBNP had an area under the curve of 0.647 (95% CI [0.564–0.729], p < 0.01). Conclusions: NT-proBNP is a predictive factor of pneumonia in hemodialysis patients.
Efficacy and Acceptability of a New Water-Soluble Nail Strengthener Containing Pistacia lentiscus and Hyaluronic Acid to Improve the Appearance of Brittle Nails versus Untreated Nails: In vitro and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Granger Corinne , Starace Michela , Alessandrini Aurora , Aladren Sonia , Bruni Francesca , Narda Mridvika , Perugini Paola , Piraccini Bianca Maria
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Brittle nail syndrome is characterized by dry, weak, easily breakable nails that show inelasticity, splitting and overall nail plate fragility. Objective: This paper describes in vitro and clinical studies using bovine hooves designed to assess the efficacy, compatibility and acceptability of a water-soluble nail strengthener (WSNS), containing Pistacia lentiscus and hyaluronic acid, for the treatment of patients affected by brittle nails. Methods: In the in vitro study, the WSNS was tested versus placebo and a marketed product on bovine hoof membranes, applied once daily for 14 days for evaluation of firmness, viscoelasticity and thickness before and after applications. In a clinical study, 23 female subjects affected by brittle nails were included, and the WSNS was applied once daily for 3 months. Signs and symptoms were rated by the investigators and by the participants during treatment at 28 and 84 days with different methods and dermoscopic images. Subjective efficacy was evaluated by specific questionnaires. Results: In the in vitro study, the daily application of the WSNS and marketed product led to a significant increase in firmness index. In the clinical study, the nails on the treated hand presented an improvement in nail appearance and weakness, after 28 and 84 days of WSNS application, respectively. The nails not treated showed no improvement. The WSNS was well tolerated. Conclusions: The WSNS containing Pistacia lentiscus and hyaluronic acid was shown to significantly increase nail firmness in the in vitro study. In the clinical study, WSNS significantly improved brittle nail appearance. The hydrosolubility and easy-to-apply format of WSNS were reported to be factors of a good compliance. We consider this product as an important tool to improve and reinforce the aspect of brittle nails.
Mineralcorticoid Receptor Antagonist Withdrawal for Hyperkalemia and Mortality in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Lisi Francesco , Parisi Giuseppe , Gioia Margherita Ilaria , Amato Luca , Bellino Maria Consiglia , Grande Dario , Massari Francesco , Caldarola Pasquale , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Iacoviello Massimo
Published: January 2020

Background: Hyperkalemia is one of the most frequent side effects related to renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibition, and can influence optimization of heart failure (HF) therapy. Aim: To evaluate the occurrence of hyperkalemia in a series of outpatients with chronic HF and its relationship with RAAS inhibitor therapy. Method: We evaluated consecutive outpatients with HF and a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. The incidence of hyperkalemia and consequent changes in RAAS inhibitor therapy were evaluated for each patient. Results: A history of hyperkalemia or at least 1 episode of hyperkalemia during follow-up was observed in 104 of 351 patients. Hyperkalemia mainly influenced mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) therapy and, among patients with hyperkalemia, not taking MRA was associated with a greater risk of death on univariate analysis (HR = 6.39; 95% CI 2.76–14.79, p < 0.001) and multivariate analysis (HR = 5.24; 95% CI 1.87–14.72, p = 0.002) after correction for age, ischemic cardiomyopathy, diabetes, systolic arterial pressure, New York Heart Association class 3, left ventricular ejection fraction, presence of hyponatremia, glomerular filtration rate calculated by the EPI formula, and presence of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide >1,000 pg/mL. Conclusion: The occurrence of hyperkalemia is common among outpatients with HF and it is the main cause of MRA withdrawal, which is associated with a worse prognosis. In this setting, the possibility of managing hyperkalemia using new classes of drugs could allow continuation of MRA therapy.
Lifestyle Factors and Subjective Cognitive Impairment in Patients Seeking Help at a Memory Disorder Clinic: The Role of Negative Life Events
Authors: Andersson Christin , Marklund Kristina , Walles Håkan , Hagman Göran , Miley-Akerstedt Anna
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims: A large proportion of patients at memory disorders clinics are classified as having subjective cognitive impairment (SCI). Previous research has investigated whether particular lifestyle factors known to affect cognition can be useful in differentiating patients who do not show objective evidence of memory decline. There may also exist subgroups of patients with respect to lifestyle factors that could help clinicians to understand the patient group that presents to memory clinics. These may differ in diagnostic outcome. Very little is known about potential subgroups; however, but such information may help guide interventions and potentially eliminate unnecessary diagnostic procedures. The current study investigated patterns of lifestyle-related variables, including stress, sleep, sensory sensitivity, depression, and negative life events in patients presenting to a memory disorders clinic. The aim was to determine whether subgroups existed and whether it was possible to distinguish those with objectively impaired cognition. Methods: One hundred and seventy-eight patients (mean age 58 years) from a University Hospital Memory Disorders Clinic. Results: Cluster analysis identified three groups of lifestyle-related variables. Strong determinants of clusters were negative life events and age. Patients with a high number of negative life events also tended to have highest self-reported memory complaint, higher levels of stress, depression, and sensory sensitivity. However, they did not perform the worst on memory testing. In contrast, individuals who performed the worst on memory tests were older, tended to have the least memory complaints, and less negative lifestyle factors; this group also included the highest proportion of patients with mild cognitive impairment and had the lowest median amyloid A-beta 42 (Aβ42). The group with the best cognitive performance were younger, included the highest proportion of patients with SCI and the highest median Aβ42. On lifestyle variables, their ratings fell in between the other groups. Conclusions: Lifestyle subgroups of patients were determined by stress, emotional problems, and age. The groups were significantly associated with Aβ42 and diagnostic outcome. This pattern may confound the differentiation between objective and subjective memory problems. Asking about lifestyle variables, in conjunction with neuropsychological testing, could potentially identify individuals who are not likely to have objective memory impairment and guide interventions.
Improved Sleep Quality Improves Blood Pressure Control among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ali Waleed , Gao Guimin , Bakris George L.
Published: January 2020

Background: Despite the abundance of data documenting the consequences of poor sleep quality on blood pressure (BP), no previous study to our knowledge has addressed the impact of sleep improvement on resistant hypertension among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether improved sleep quality and duration will improve BP control in patients with resistant hypertension and CKD. It was a prospective single-center cohort study that involved 30 hypertensive subjects with CKD presenting with primary resistant hypertension and poor sleep quality or duration <6 h/night. Sleep quality and duration were modified using either sleep hygiene education alone or adding sleep medication. The cohort’s BP was followed every 3 months for 6-month duration. The average home and clinic BPs were collected at each follow-up visit. The primary outcome baseline change in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP; home and clinic) at 3 and 6 months after documented sleep improvement. Secondary outcomes included change from baseline in mean arterial pressure, and delta SBP after sleep improvement. Results: African American patients represented 50% of the cohort. All patients had evidence of CKD with GFR ≤60 mL/min and were obese with 40% having type 2 diabetes mellitus. The primary endpoint of change in clinic SBP and DBP was significantly reduced at 3 months, baseline 156 ± 15/88 ± 8 vs. 3 months 125 ± 14/73 ± 7 (p < 0.0001). This difference persisted at 6 months. However, there was no further reduction in-home or clinic BPs between the 3- and 6-month periods. Home and clinic average delta SBP change at 3 months from baseline was –34.4 ± 15 and –30.8 ± 19 mm Hg respectively. Delta SBP change was associated with sleep improvement of >6 h/night, that is, gaining an extra 3–4 h’ sleep duration, home; R2 = 0.66, p < 0.0001 and clinic; R2 = 0.49, p < 0.0001. Conclusion: Optimizing sleep quality and duration to >6 h/night improved BP control and was associated with a significant delta change in SBP within 3 months of follow-up. Physicians should obtain a sleep history in patients with CKD who present with resistant hypertension.
Efeito do extrato aquoso de Cordyline Dracaenóides Kunth na cicatrização de lesões cutâneas
Authors: Kerppers Ivo Ilvan , Kerppers Flavio Klinpovous , Santos Kesia Maria Mangoni Gonçalves Dos , Cordeiro Maria Elvira Ribeiro , Pereira Mario César da Silva
Published: January 2020

Método de estudo: trata-se de um estudo experimental, randomizado. Introdução: O processo de cicatrização é um conjunto dinâmico de alterações teciduais importantes que envolve inflamação e quimiotaxia. A Cordyline Dracaenóides Kunth, conhecida popularmente como Uvarana, é uma planta que contribui com o processo de cicatrização. Objetivo: Nesse contexto, o objetivo desse trabalho foi verificar os efeitos do extrato aquoso de Uvarana no processo cicatricial. Método: A amostra foi composta por 42 ratos da raça Rattus norvegicus, Wistar, divididos em quatro grupos experimentais: Grupo Controle Negativo, Grupo Controle Positivo, Grupo Uvarana e Grupo Fármaco, subdivididos em 3 e 7 dias. Os animais foram anestesiados com 80 mg/kg de Ketamina e 15 mg/kg de Xilazina e, em seguida, foram posicionados em decúbito ventral sobre uma prancha cirúrgica. Após isso, foi realizada a tricotomia da região dorsal e com uma lâmina de bisturi, foi feita uma incisão de 10 mm. Após a incisão, foi realizado o fechamento da ferida com fio de nylon número 5.0. Resultados: Observou-se que, no grupo em que foi aplicado o extrato aquoso de Uvarana, houve uma regeneração da epiderme com presença de crosta, o tecido dérmico apresentou células inflamatórias, a hipoderme teve intensa inflamação, a epiderme ficou mais espessa ao sétimo dia e a derme apresentou células regenerativas de colágeno e fechamento da cicatriz. Conclusão: Com base nesse estudo, pode-se concluir que o extrato aquoso de Uvarana é um método bastante eficaz no tratamento de lesões cutâneas e tem a capacidade de acelerar o processo de cicatrização.
A contribuição na disseminação do conhecimento de Oftalmologia da primeira Liga Acadêmica de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Araújo Roberto Ferreira de Almeida , Cotta Bruna Stefane Silva , Resende Leonardo Santos , Alvarenga Rodrigo Pinto Coelho , Magalhães Larissa Lima , Kanadani Fabio Nishimura
Published: January 2020

As ligas acadêmicas estão presentes no Brasil desde 1920 (Liga de Combate à Sífilis e outras Doenças Sexualmente Transmissíveis). As atividades são estruturadas a partir da tríade: ensino, pesquisa e extensão. A Liga Acadêmica de Oftalmologia (OFTALMOLIGA) da Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais (FCMMG), fundada em 2012, proporciona aos alunos um maior contato com a oftalmologia, que é negligenciada na maioria dos currículos obrigatórios de cursos de graduação. Objetiva-se, com este trabalho, descrever as atividades vivenciadas durante a gestão de uma liga acadêmica de oftalmologia entre os anos de 2017-2019. A OFTALMOLIGA é uma agremiação de alunos bastante ativa do ponto de vista teórico-prático-científico. Ao longo do período descrito, uma quantidade expressiva de textos científicos (Artigos) e trabalhos para eventos médicos foram produzidas. Ser membro integrante da OFTALMOLIGA é algo almejado por muitos acadêmicos da FCMMG e de outras instituições de ensino da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. Nós acreditamos que o contato dos acadêmicos nas ligas de diferentes especialidades pode ajudá-los na escolha do caminho a ser seguido em direção à especialização médica.
Access and Outcomes Among Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Patients in a Large Integrated Health System
Authors: Thomas Alexander , Papoutsidakis Nikolaos , Spatz Erica , Testani Jeffrey , Soucier Richard , Chou Josephine , Ahmad Tariq , Darr Umer , Hu Xin , Li Fangyong , Chen Michael E. , Bellumkonda Lavanya , Sumathipala Adriel , Jacoby Daniel
Published: January 2020

Background

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (
HCM
) is the most common inherited cardiomyopathy. Current guidelines endorse management in expert centers, but patient socioeconomic status can affect access to specialty care. The effect of socioeconomic status and specialty care access on
HCM
outcomes has not been examined.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective cohort study that examined outcomes among
HCM
patients receiving care in the Yale New Haven Health System between June 2011 and December 2017. Patients were assigned to lower or higher socioeconomic status groups (
LSES
/
HSES
) based on medical insurance provider and to receivers of specialty care (
SC
) at Yale's Inherited Cardiomyopathy clinic or general cardiology care (
GC
). The primary outcome was all‐cause death, and the secondary outcome was all‐cause hospitalization. We identified 953
HCM
patients; 820 (86%) were
HSES
and 133 (14%) were
LSES
. Forty‐three (4.5%) patients died from cardiac and noncardiac causes.
LSES
patients within the general cardiology care cohort had significantly higher all‐cause mortality compared with
HSES
patients (adjusted hazard ratio, [95%
CI
]=10.06 [4.38–23.09];
P
<0.001). This was not noted in the specialty care cohort (adjusted hazard ratio, [95%
CI
]=2.87 [0.56–14.73];
P
=0.21). The moderator effect of specialty care on mortality difference between
LSES
versus
HSES
, however, did not reach statistical significance (hazard ratio, 0.29 [0.05–1.77];
P
=0.18). Specialist care was associated with increased hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio, [95%
CI
]=3.28 [1.11–9.73];
P
=0.03 for
LSES
; 2.19 [1.40–3.40];
P
=0.001 for
HSES
).

Conclusions

Socioeconomically vulnerable
HCM
patients had higher mortality when not referred to specialty care. Further study is needed to understand the underlying causes.
Estimating Myocardial Infarction Size With a Simple Electrocardiographic Marker Score
Authors: Lee Daniel C. , Albert Christine M. , Narula Dhiraj , Kadish Alan H. , Panicker Gopi Krishna , Wu Edwin , Schaechter Andi , Pester Julie , Chatterjee Neal A. , Cook Nancy R. , Goldberger Jeffrey J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Myocardial infarction (
MI
) size is a key predictor of prognosis in post‐
MI
patients. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (
CMR
) is the gold standard test for
MI
quantification, but the
ECG
is less expensive and more widely available. We sought to quantify the relationship between
ECG
markers and cardiovascular magnetic resonance infarct size.

Methods and Results

Patients with prior
MI
enrolled in the
DETERMINE
(Defibrillators to Reduce Risk by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation) and PRE‐DETERMINE Trial and Registry were included.
ECG
leads were analyzed for markers of
MI
: Q waves, fragmented
QRS
, and T wave inversion.
DETERMINE
Score=number of leads with [Q waves×2]+[fragmented
QRS
]+[T wave inversion]. Left ventricular ejection fraction (
LVEF
) and infarct size as a percentage of left ventricular mass (
MI
%) were quantified by cardiovascular magnetic resonance. The Modified Selvester Score estimates
MI
size from 37
ECG
criteria. In 551 patients (aged 62.1±10.9 years, 79% men, and
LVEF
=40.3±11.0%),
MI
% increased as the number of
ECG
markers increased (
P
<0.001). By univariable linear regression, the
DETERMINE
Score (range 0–26) estimated
MI
% (
R
2
=0.18,
P
<0.001) with an accuracy approaching that of
LVEF
(
R
2
=0.22,
P
<0.001) and higher than the Modified Selvester Score (
R
2
=0.09,
P
<0.001). By multivariable linear regression, addition of the
DETERMINE
Score improved estimation of
MI
% over
LVEF
alone (
P
<0.001) and over Modified Selvester Score alone (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

In patients with prior
MI
, a simple
ECG
score estimates infarct size and improves infarct size estimation over
LVEF
alone. Because infarct size is a powerful prognostic indicator, the
DETERMINE
Score holds promise as a simple and inexpensive risk assessment tool.
Multiple Switching and Data Quality in the Multiple Price List
Authors: Yu Chi Wai , Zhang Y. Jane , Zuo Sharon Xuejing
Published: January 2020

A substantial proportion of individuals who complete the widely used multiple price list (MPL) instrument switch back and forth between the safe and the risky choice columns, behavior that is believed to indicate low-quality decision making. We develop a conceptual framework to formally define decision-making quality, test explanations for the nature of low-quality decision making, and introduce a novel “nudge” treatment that reduced multiple switching behavior and increased decision-making quality. We find evidence in support of task-specific miscomprehension of the MPL and that non-multiple switchers and relatively high-cognitive-ability individuals are not immune to low-quality decision making.
Ethnic Diversity and Growth: Revisiting the Evidence
Authors: Montalvo José G. , Reynal-Querol Marta
Published: January 2020

The relationship between ethnic heterogeneity and economic growth is complex. Empirical research working with cross-country data finds a negative, or statistically insignificant, relationship. However, analysis at the city level finds a positive effect of diversity on wages and productivity. Generally there is a trade-off between the economic benefits of diversity and the costs of heterogeneity. Using cells of fixed size, we find that the relationship between diversity and growth is positive for small geographical areas. In the case of Africa, we argue that the explanation is the increase in trade at the boundaries between ethnic groups due to ethnic specialization.
Accountability, Political Capture, and Selection Into Politics: Evidence from Peruvian Municipalities
Authors: Artiles Miriam , Kleine-Rueschkamp Lukas , León-Ciliotta Gianmarco
Published: January 2020

We estimate the effects of political accountability on the selection of politicians when accountability mechanisms are prone to political capture. We compare the characteristics of candidates running in municipalities where the previous incumbent was ousted from office through a recall referendum with those who run where the recall referendum failed by a small margin. Having a recalled incumbent in the previous term causes a negative selection of candidates in terms of their education and previous experience. They are also less representative of indigenous groups. The results are driven by localities where the accountability institution is likely used for political purposes.
Living without a Soul: Why God and the Heavenly Movers Fall Outside of Aristotle’s Psychology
Authors: Cohoe Caleb
Published: January 2020

I argue that the science of the soul only covers sublunary living things. Aristotle cannot properly ascribe ψυχή to unmoved movers since they do not have any capacities that are distinct from their activities or any matter to be structured. Heavenly bodies do not have souls in the way that mortal living things do, because their matter is not subject to alteration or generation. These beings do not fit into the hierarchy of soul powers that Aristotle relies on to provide unity to ψυχή. Their living consists in their activities, not in having a capacity for activity.
Indecent Exposure: Social Shame, ʿerwâ and the Interpretation of Gen 9:20-27
Authors: Rainey Brian
Published: January 2020

This article contends that the conflict between Ham and Noah in Gen 9:20-27 centers on the use of a male head-of-household’s exposed pelvic region (ʿerwâ) to shame him and undermine his authority. The pericope draws on a well-attested taboo on the exposure of the pelvic region in socially inappropriate and unacceptable contexts. In particular, the story resembles other biblical examples in which men’s exposed pelvic regions are used to shame them (2 Sam 6:16, 20-26; 10:4-5). This element of the story helps explain several questions about the severity of Ham’s crime and the punishment inflicted on his son, Canaan.
Underwater Archaeology: the Compositional Layers of the Book of Jonah
Authors: McKenzie Steven L. , Graybill Rhiannon , Kaltner John
Published: January 2020

This article provides a detailed analysis of the text of Jonah with a reconstruction of its compositional layers.
In Search of Cultural Models for Divine Spirit and Human Bodies
Authors: Newsom Carol A.
Published: January 2020

This paper examines various ways in which ancient Israelite texts speak of the relationship of divine spirit to human bodies. Methodologically, it takes its cue from recent work in cognitive anthropology, specifically the study of cultural cognitive models. This approach pays attention to keywords, metaphors, and aspects of syntax and grammar to attempt to elicit implicit assumptions that lie behind and enable the discourse itself. With respect to divine spirit and human bodies the texts reveal a particular focus on the modalities of the relationship. Although the two major models are “wind-against-object” and “breathwind-in-container,” a surprising number of expressions featuring spirit-as-liquid are attested. Moreover, certain aspects of how death is modeled become clearer when one distinguishes a rûaḥ model of vitality from a nepeš model. Implications for further research in the areas of selfhood and personal agency are suggested.
Amos against Amaziah (Amos 7:10-17): a Case of Mutual Exclusion
Authors: Wazana Nili
Published: January 2020

Scholarly interpretation of the encounter between the prophet Amos and Amaziah, the priest of Bethel (Amos 7:10-17), has thus far focused on the issue of prophetic authority and legitimization. This paper seeks to shed light on the issues at the heart of the dispute between Amaziah and Amos—issues of boundaries and identity, insiders and outsiders; belonging to and being banished from Israel, the land and the people. Amaziah insists that Amos is an outsider who may speak freely, but only “there”, not “here”. Amos counters by predicting the priest’s own loss of social framework, in life and in death. The fact that, unlike many other reports of prophetic confrontations, this story does not indicate the consequences of the dispute—whether the expulsion of the prophet from the Northern Kingdom or the fulfillment of the curse of Amaziah—is another indication that the issue of prophetic authority is neither the only, nor the major concern of this showdown.
Demographic Predictors of Work Ethics in a South African Sample
Authors: Jonck Petronella , van der Walt Freda , Sobayeni Caroline N.
Published: January 2020

Ethical behavior in South Africa, and consequently in the workplace, is currently a highly topical issue. Hence it was decided to investigate whether demographic differences exist regarding work ethics, in order to guide organizational decision-making and to understand work behavior in a South African sample. The sample consisted of 301 respondents, and data was collected using the Multidimensional Work Ethics Profile (MWEP), which was developed to measure seven facets of work ethics. Inferential statistical analysis was performed to analyze the dataset. The results indicate that male respondents scored higher on delay of gratification in comparison to their female counterparts. Test results for tenure found that increased years of service influenced respondents’ scores positively in hard work and delay of gratification.
How Do International Students’ Acculturation Attitudes Affect Their Health-Promoting Behaviors in Turkey?
Authors: Taşçı-Duran Emel
Published: January 2020

This is a cross-sectional study that explores the effects of acculturation attitudes on the health-promoting behaviors of international students in Isparta, Turkey. The study was carried out in eight departments at Suleyman Demirel University. The sample comprised 138 students. The data were collected using three forms: the Data Form, the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP) scale, and the Acculturation Attitudes Scale. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between the mean HPLP scores and the mean acculturation attitude scores (r=0.321, p<0.001). It is important for health professionals working with international students to understand the interactions between acculturation attitude and health-promoting behavior.
Understanding the Esoteric through Progressive Awareness
Authors: Seamon David
Published: January 2020

Many researchers of Western esotericism today assume a “methodological agnosticism” whereby they limit themselves to historical and textual verification. They do not adjudicate whether the specific esoteric tradition studied is genuine or spurious, reasonable or unsound, grounded in a spiritual reality or premised in fantastical impossibilities. In this article, I draw on G.I. Gurdjieff’s understanding of the “Law of Three” as extended by British philosopher and Gurdjieff associate J.G. Bennett to argue that a phenomenological approach is a valuable interpretive complement to methodological agnosticism because it offers a reliable conceptual and methodological means for probing esoteric claims as they might be understood via firsthand encounter and experience. Bennett particularized Gurdjieff’s presentation of the Law of Three by describing it in terms of six triads; i.e., systems of three forces that interact to sustain a specific action, process, or happening. In this article, I draw on my ongoing understanding of Gurdjieff’s Law of Three and Bennett’s six triads to suggest that esoteric knowledge is not necessarily “hidden” or “beyond the ordinary” but can unfold in a process of progressive awareness whereby the student engages in an empathetic, deepening understanding of phenomena. Instead of the “outsider” perspective of methodological agnosticism, one draws on an “insider” perspective of committed, first-person involvement.
Interaction between Protection of Sunni Minority under International Law and National Security of Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Fazaeli, Mostafa , Karami Mousa , Asadi Sorayya
Published: January 2020

It appears that in accordance with the regulations of International Minority Rights Law, Iranian Sunni Muslims constitute a religious minority. The instrumental aim of the minorities’ protection system is to prevent conflict between persons belonging to minorities and those of majority populations in the light of territorial integrity, domestic stability and the national security of the states involved. The authors maintain that protecting the Sunni minority and observing their internationally recognised rights in Iran – through removing the reasons behind dissatisfactions of persons belonging to this group, resolving potential religious conflicts and promoting national integration – have a direct link with the maintenance of internal stability of the country, which, in the long term, tend to reinforce Iran’s national security and provide a good pattern for other countries in the region or other parts of the world.