bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Probiotics Supplementation On Chronic Kidney Disease: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jia Linpei , Jia Qiang , Yang Jingyan , Jia Rufu , Zhang Hongliang
Published: October 2018

Background/Aims: Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota may accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) by increasing the levels of urea toxins. In recent years, probiotics have been recognized to maintain the physiological balance of the intestinal microbiota. In this study, we aim to assess the therapeutic effects of probiotics on CKD patients with and without dialysis via meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) by searching the databases of Pubmed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library (No. CRD42018093080). Studies on probiotics for treatment of CKD adults lasting for at least 4 weeks were selected. The primary outcomes were the levels of urea toxins, and the second outcomes were the levels of interleukin (IL)-6, C-reactive protein (CRP) and hemoglobin (Hb). The risk of bias was assessed by Cochrane Collaboration’ tool, and the quality of evidence was appraised with the Grading of Recommendation Assessment. Means and standard deviations were analyzed by random effects analysis. Stratified analysis was done and sensitivity analysis was performed when appropriate. Results: Totally, eight studies with 261 patients at CKD stage 3 to 5 with and without dialysis were included. We found a decrease of p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) of 3 studies with 125 subjects (P = 0.01, SMD -0.57, 95% CI, -0.99 to -0.14, I2 = 25%) and an increase of IL-6 in 3 studies with 134 subjects (P = 0.03, 95% CI, SMD 0.37, 0.03 to 0.72, I2 = 0%) in the probiotics groups. Analysis of serum creatinine (P = 0.47), blood urine nitrogen (P = 0.73), CRP (P = 0.55) and Hb (P = 0.49) yielded insignificant difference. Conclusion: Limited number of studies and small sample size are limitations of our study. Probiotics supplementation may reduce the levels of PCS and elevate the levels of IL-6 whereby protecting the intestinal epithelial barrier of patients with CKD.
Acute Myocardial Infarction due to Multiple Thrombosis without Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Dönmez Yurdaer , Acele Armağan , Köse Zikret
Published: October 2018

Objective: Acute thrombotic occlusion of > 1 major coronary arteries is very rare (2.5%). Herein, we report a patient with simultaneous anterior and inferior myocardial infarction without cardiogenic shock. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 43-year-old woman was admitted with severe chest pain. Electrocardiography showed ST segment elevation in anterior and inferior derivations. There was no severe hypotension. Urgent coronary angiography showed that there were thrombotic occlusions in both left anterior descending artery and right coronary artery. Both lesions were successfully treated with coronary stenting. Conclusion: If there is multiple ST segment elevation on presentation electrocardiography, clinicians should be aware of possible simultaneous coronary occlusions.
Outcomes, Costs, and 30-Day Readmissions After Catheter Ablation of Myocardial Infarct–Associated Ventricular Tachycardia in the Real World
Authors: Cheung Jim W. , Yeo Ilhwan , Ip James E. , Thomas George , Liu Christopher F. , Markowitz Steven M. , Lerman Bruce B. , Kim Luke K.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Patients undergoing catheter ablation of myocardial infarction–associated ventricular tachycardia (VT) have significant comorbidities that can increase the risks of adverse outcomes. The rates of readmissions after VT ablation are unknown. We sought to examine in-hospital outcomes, costs, and 30-day readmissions after catheter ablation of myocardial infarction–associated VT.

Methods:

Using the Nationwide Readmissions Database, we evaluated 4109 admissions for catheter ablation of myocardial infarction–associated VT occurring between 2010 and 2015. On the basis of
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification
and Clinical Classification Software codes, we identified comorbidities, procedural complications, 30-day readmissions, and costs associated with VT ablation.

Results:

The index admission in-hospital mortality rate and procedural complication rate after VT ablation were 2.7% and 11.5%, respectively. Independent predictors of mortality included pulmonary hypertension, lung disease, obesity, and coagulopathy. Following discharge after VT ablation, the 30-day readmission rate was 19.2% with a median time to readmission of 10.0 days (IQR, 3.8–17.6 days) and an in-hospital mortality rate of 2.9%. Cardiac causes accounted for 74% of readmissions, with VT and congestive heart failure constituting 41% and 14% of all readmissions, respectively. Pulmonary hypertension, congestive heart failure, smoking, chronic pulmonary disease, and prolonged index hospitalization were significant independent predictors of 30-day readmission. After adjustment, 30-day readmissions were associated with a 38.9% increase in cumulative hospitalization costs.

Conclusions:

Thirty-day readmissions after catheter ablation of VT occur in nearly 1 out of 5 cases, with the majority of readmissions being caused by recurrent VT or congestive heart failure. Baseline comorbidities are significant predictors of procedural mortality, complications, and readmissions. Strategies to reduce recurrent VT postablation by improving procedural success, optimizing postablation heart failure treatment, and ensuring close postdischarge follow-up may help reduce readmissions and healthcare costs.
High‐Intensity Versus Non‐High‐Intensity Statins in Patients Achieving Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Goal After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Kim Juwon , Park Kyu Tae , Jang Mi Ja , Park Taek Kyu , Lee Joo Myung , Yang Jeong Hoon , Song Young Bin , Choi Seung‐Hyuk , Gwon Hyeon‐Cheol , Lee Sang‐Hoon , Hong Kyung Pyo , Hahn Joo‐Yong
Published: October 2018

Background

Whether use of high‐intensity statins is more important than achieving low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (
LDL
‐C) target remains controversial in patients with coronary artery disease. We sought to investigate the association between statin intensity and long‐term clinical outcomes in patients achieving treatment target for
LDL
‐C after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

Between February 2003 and December 2014, 1746 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and achieved treatment target for
LDL
‐C (<70 mg/dL or >50% reduction from baseline level) were studied. We classified patients into 2 groups according to an intensity of statin prescribed after index percutaneous coronary intervention: high‐intensity statin group (atorvastatin 40 or 80 mg, and rosuvastatin 20 mg, 372 patients) and non‐high‐intensity statin group (the other statin treatment, 1374 patients). The primary outcome was a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or stroke. Difference in time‐averaged
LDL
‐C during follow‐up was significant, but small, between the high‐intensity statin group and non‐high‐intensity statin group (59±13 versus 61±12 mg/dL;
P
=0.04). At 5 years, patients receiving high‐intensity statins had a significantly lower incidence of the primary outcome than those treated with non‐high‐intensity statins (4.1% versus 9.9%; hazard ratio, 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.23–0.79;
P
<0.01). Results were consistent after propensity‐score matching (4.2% versus 11.2%; hazard ratio, 0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.19–0.69;
P
<0.01) and across various subgroups.

Conclusions

Among patients achieving treatment target for
LDL
‐C after percutaneous coronary intervention, high‐intensity statins were associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events than non‐high‐intensity statins despite a small difference in achieved
LDL
‐C level.
Quality of Care and Outcomes for Patients With Stroke in the United States Admitted During the International Stroke Conference
Authors: Messé Steven R. , Mullen Michael T. , Cox Margueritte , Fonarow Gregg C. , Smith Eric E. , Saver Jeffrey L. , Reeves Mathew J. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Matsouaka Roland , Schwamm Lee H.
Published: October 2018

Background

Patients presenting to hospitals during non–weekday hours experience worse outcomes, often attributed to reduced staffing. The American Heart Association International Stroke Conference (
ISC
) is well attended by stroke clinicians. We sought to determine whether patients with acute ischemic stroke (
AIS
) admitted during the
ISC
receive less guideline‐adherent care and experience worse outcomes.

Methods and Results

We performed a retrospective cohort study of
US
hospitals participating in Get With The Guidelines–Stroke and assessed use of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator, other quality measures, and outcomes for patients with AIS admitted during the
ISC
compared with those admitted the weeks before and after the conference. A total of 69 738 patients with
AIS
were included: mean age, 72 years; 52% women; 29% nonwhite. There was no difference between the average weekly number of
AIS
cases admitted during
ISC
weeks versus non‐
ISC
weeks (1984 versus 1997;
P
=0.95). Patient and hospital characteristics were similar between
ISC
and non‐
ISC
time periods. There were no significant differences in 14 quality metrics and 5 clinical outcomes between patients with AIS treated during the
ISC
versus non‐
ISC
weeks. Patients with AIS who presented within 2 hours of onset had no difference in the likelihood of receiving intravenous tissue plasminogen activator within 3 hours (adjusted odds ratio, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.77–1.03;
P
=0.13) or the likelihood of receiving intravenous tissue plasminogen activator within 60 minutes of arrival (adjusted odds ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.83–1.02;
P
=0.13).

Conclusions

Patients with acute stroke admitted to Get With The Guidelines–Stroke hospitals during
ISC
received the same quality care and had similar outcomes as patients admitted at other times.
Nonhuman Animal Behavioral Phenomena Are Central to the Emerging Concept of Intangible Natural Heritage
Authors: Robischon Marcel
Published: October 2018

Intangible natural heritage is a concept that has been addressed in several publications and that offers a new and expanded view onto world heritage conservation. However, the difference from intangible cultural heritage has not been clearly defined. One distinction in the categories of world heritage that are established in international conventions appears where “the intangible” is not created by humans but by a nonhuman animal. Living organisms sustain human life materially and provide inspiration to humans, both in their material form and by displaying behaviors, or via observable, yet not tangible, dynamic phenomena and processes. This includes migration patterns, aggregations, vocalizations or the formation of symbiotic and mutualistic inter-species relationships. Given the non-material character of these elements, their transmission by nonhuman living beings, and their importance to human culture, it is proposed that such phenomena are considered as intangible natural heritagesensu strictoin the discourse of world heritage.
Standard Terms Contracts: The Approaches of Qatari Civil Law and UNIDROIT Principles 2016. A Comparative Study
Authors: Mahasneh Nisreen
Published: October 2018

This study compares the approach that Qatari Civil Law No. 22/2004 (QCL) takes to standard terms with that taken by the UNIDROIT Principles of International Commercial Contracts 2016. The main difference between QCL and the UNIDROIT Principles, is that the QCL relates standard terms contracts with adhesion contracts. The latter are only concerned with strategic goods and services that are monopolized by the supplier. Another difference is the remedy; under the QCL, the judge has the authority not only to exempt the adhering party from the oppressive standard term, but to also amend that term. However, under the UNIDROIT Principles, surprising terms are invalid. The study recommends that the Qatari legislator remove the connection in the QCL between standard terms contracts and adhesion contracts, and limit judges’ authority to exempting disadvantaged parties from oppressive terms.
On Hydrocanthus Say, 1823 (Coleoptera: Noteridae): description of a new species, two new synonyms and a key to Brazilian species
Authors: GUIMARÃES BRUNO A. C. , FERREIRA-JR NELSON , MILLER KELLY B.
Published: October 2018

A new species of Hydrocanthus Say, 1823 is described and illustrated, H. zimmermanni sp. nov. from Peru. A distinct pattern of prosternum and prosternal process setation and aedeagal features differentiate the new species from all other members of Hydrocanthus. Two new synonyms are established: H. rubiginosus Guignot, 1942 as junior synonym of H. debilis Sharp, 1882 (syn. nov.) and H. paludimonstrus Miller, 2001 as junior synonym of H. paraguayensis Zimmermann, 1928 (syn. nov.). In addition, a key to Brazilian species of Hydrocanthus is provided.
Four new species of the leafhopper genus Riseveinus Li (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Evacanthinae) from China and Thailand
Authors: WANG YANG , DIETRICH CHRISTOPHER H. , ZHANG YALIN
Published: October 2018

The Oriental leafhopper genus Riseveinus Li is recorded from Thailand for the first time. Four new species, R. cervcornutus sp. nov., R. hamatus sp. nov., R. spinatus sp. nov. and R. tenuispinus sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Their diagnostic characteristics are compared with close relatives. A key to all known species of Riseveinus is provided.
On the Time Evolution of Limited-Area Ensemble Variance: Case Studies with the Convection-Permitting Ensemble COSMO-E
Authors: Klasa Christina , Arpagaus Marco , Walser André , Wernli Heini
Published: October 2018

Dynamical processes determining the time evolution of difference kinetic energy (DKE) in a limited-area domain are investigated with the convection-permitting ensemble model COSMO-E for a forecasting period of 4 days. DKE is quantified by means of ensemble variance of the irrotational and nondivergent horizontal wind. For three case studies characterized by contrasting predictability levels of precipitation, it is shown that DKE of the irrotational wind strongly increases during periods of solar-forced moist convective activity and decreases when the latter ceases. The response of DKE of the nondivergent wind is also clearly related to the convective activity, but delayed by a few hours, pointing to interactions between both wind components. Apart from the impact of moist convection, DKE of the nondivergent wind is primarily governed by large-scale advection, imposed at the lateral domain boundaries of the limited-area ensemble. This forcing may also sustain or increase DKE of the irrotational wind when moist convection is absent. Consequently, the large-scale flow and diurnal solar forcing, associated with higher spatiotemporal predictability, determines the overall evolution of the limited-area ensemble variance of the horizontal wind, which increases in the presence of moist convective activity or strong synoptic-scale forcing, and stagnates or decreases otherwise, rendering forecasts of convection-permitting ensembles valuable beyond the very short forecast range.
State Networks and Intra-Ethnic Group Variation in the 2011 Syrian Uprising
Authors: Mazur Kevin
Published: October 2018

The 2011 Syrian uprising looks, from afar, like a paradigmatic example of ethnically exclusive rule giving way to civil war. The ruling regime is drawn almost exclusively from the Alawi minority, and the challengers were drawn heavily from the Sunni majority. But many Sunnis remained quiescent or actively supported the regime. This article argues that variation in revolutionary participation among members of an excluded ethnic group is best explained in terms of the networks states construct across ethnic boundaries. It identifies several forms of linkage that regimes can develop with their subject populations and relates them to variations in local social structure. Drawing on an original data set of ethnic identity and challenge events in the Syrian uprising, the article quantitatively tests the state networks hypothesis. Its findings suggest that the mechanisms commonly associated with ethnic identity and “ethnic exclusion” frequently operate upon social boundaries below the ethnic group level.
New trends in cellular silicone: Innovations and applications
Authors: Métivier Thibaud , Cassagnau Philippe
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of manufacturing processes used in the development of cellular silicone for a wide variety of applications. The combination of intrinsic properties of silicone and foam is considered as an attractive solution in many applications. With regard to the long-standing interest of the industry in silicone chemistry, foaming is very common from hydrosilylation/condensation reactions. This well-known technology leads to homogeneous, elastic, low density and biocompatible foams. However, the size of the cells remains large, the reactions are sensitive to humidity and the dangerousness of the hydrogen could be an industrial concern. Many researches are moving towards alternatives to the manufacture of silicone cellular materials such as gas foaming, phase separation, emulsion and sacrificial models, and syntactic charges. In addition, the theories of sorption, diffusion, nucleation and cell growth are detailed to explain the formation of gaseous foam. CO2 is commonly used to physically foam silicone because of its good solubility. However, the diffusive behavior of CO2 is high in silicone as explained by the free volume theory. Silicone–CO2 foaming is essentially triggered by rapid depressurization leading to a cell density around 1 × 109 cells/cm3 in the best case. In addition, templated foams are divided into emulsion polymerization (polyHIPE), sacrificial foams and syntactic foams. These methods are simple because they do not need specific foaming equipments. Pore sizes are also tunable as function of template sizes.
Autonomy–Connectedness, Self-Construal, and Acculturation: Associations With Mental Health in a Multicultural Society
Authors: Maas J. , van Assen M. A. L. M. , van Balkom A. J. L. M. , Rutten E. A. P. , Bekker M. H. J.
Published: October 2018

The present study investigated the associations between self-construal, acculturation, and autonomy–connectedness, as well as the relations between autonomy–connectedness and psychopathological symptoms, controlling for self-construal and acculturation. Participants were 1,209 Dutch individuals, of whom 693 (57.3%) were immigrants with a non-Western background. Results showed that an independent self-construal was positively associated with self-awareness and capacity for managing new situations, and was negatively associated with sensitivity to others (which are the three components of autonomy–connectedness). Moreover, an interdependent self-construal was negatively associated with self-awareness and capacity for managing new situations, and was positively associated with sensitivity to others. Importantly, the latter associations were similar for both Dutch natives and immigrants, and the associations between acculturation and autonomy–connectedness were small and nonsignificant. Autonomy–connectedness, after controlling for self-construal and acculturation, explained a large amount of additional variance in anxiety (12.7%) and depression (14.1), and a medium amount of additional variance in drive for thinness (3.7%) and bulimia (4.8%). Autonomy–connectedness, thus, seems to be an important construct for people with a Western background, as well as for immigrants with a non-Western background.
Fiber spinning with airfields enhanced by airfoil louvers
Authors: Foley Kayla A , Shambaugh Robert L
Published: October 2018

Airfields are used in common polymer fiber spinning processes, such as melt blowing and spunbonding. A pair of louvers was installed in the air flow field of a melt blowing slot die. Previous research work has shown that, with louvers in place, the air velocity along the fiber threadline is higher than the velocity when louvers are not used. Since the air velocity is what drives the spinning process, the presence of louvers was expected to increase the attenuation of the molten filaments and thus improve the melt blowing process. Melt blowing runs were made with variable louver size (chord), louver separation, louver distance from the die face, the angle of the louvers relative to the die face, and air flow rate. Fibers were collected and fiber diameters were measured.
Research on the mechanism of the modified ring-spinning system using a dynamic twist-resistant device and its yarn quality
Authors: Shao Ruiqi , Cheng Longdi , Yu Yanping , Xu Jianxin , Wu Jianming
Published: October 2018

The spinning triangle is a critical area in the ring-spinning process; the geometry of the spinning triangle influences the distribution of the fiber tension, and affects the qualities of the spun yarn. In this paper, a kind of dynamic twist-resistant device that can affect the geometry of the spinning triangle is employed for improving the conventional ring-spinning system.

 The yarn twists between the front roller nip and dynamic twist-resistant device were captured in the spinning process using a high-speed camera. Comparing yarn twists of the two types of yarn, the modified yarns have a lower twist angle, indicating that the device can produce resistant torque. Particle Flow Code software was used to simulate the acts of the device on the yarn, and the results verified the existence of resistant torque. The resistant torque on the yarn affects the geometry of the spinning triangle and the distribution of fiber tension. In addition, 19.4 and 14.5 tex cotton yarns with three different twists, 700, 800 and 900 tpm, were produced by the modified and conventional ring spinning. The comparative study revealed that the modified yarns have a better performance in terms of yarn strength and hairiness, and show no significant difference in terms of the yarn evenness when compared with the conventional yarns at the same twist level. The mechanism of the effect of the dynamic twist-resistant device on yarn qualities is discussed by analyzing the distribution of fiber tension.
Knowledge mapping of protective clothing research—a bibliometric analysis based on visualization methodology
Authors: Tian Miao , Li Jun
Published: October 2018

In order to further understanding of the research status and fronts, a novel method was adopted in the textile and apparel field to perform knowledge mapping of protective clothing research over the last 20 years. The database of 1735 articles was built based on records retrieved from the Web of Science. Visualization software, CiteSpace, combined with Google Earth was applied to determine intellectual basis and research fronts for the protective clothing domain. Research area analysis indicated that the top ranked field was the “Materials Science” with a number of articles of 427. Publication distribution revealed that the Textile Research Journal was the most popular cited and citing journal of the protective clothing articles. The USA and China were the two primary countries contributing to the protective clothing research evidenced by the frequency, bursts and centrality. Donghua University, North Carolina State University and the University of Alberta, with a high publication frequency and centrality, were identified to be the main research drivers. The intensity of red nodes in the geographical visualization map proved the core status of Europe and America in the global cooperation network. According to the co-occurrence analysis, the three keywords of exposure, performance and heat stress were detected to be the most popular research topics over the last 20 years, corresponding to the study of exposure environment, performance evaluation and thermal physiology. The keywords in recent years suggested the research trend of enhancing the mechanism and fundamental investigation of the heat transfer process and fabrics.
A categorization tool for fabric systems used in firefighters' clothing based on their thermal protective and thermo-physiological comfort performances
Authors: Mandal Sumit , Annaheim Simon , Capt Andre , Greve Jemma , Camenzind Martin , Rossi René M.
Published: October 2018

Fabric systems used in firefighters' thermal protective clothing should offer optimal thermal protective and thermo-physiological comfort performances. However, fabric systems that have very high thermal protective performance have very low thermo-physiological comfort performance. As these performances are inversely related, a categorization tool based on these two performances can help to find the best balance between them. Thus, this study is aimed at developing a tool for categorizing fabric systems used in protective clothing. For this, a set of commercially available fabric systems were evaluated and categorized. The thermal protective and thermo-physiological comfort performances were measured by standard tests and indexed into a normalized scale between 0 (low performance) and 1 (high performance). The indices dataset was first divided into three clusters by using the k-means algorithm. Here, each cluster had a centroid representing a typical Thermal Protective Performance Index (TPPI) value and a typical Thermo-physiological Comfort Performance Index (TCPI) value. By using the ISO 11612:2015 and EN 469:2014 guidelines related to the TPPI requirements, the clustered fabric systems were divided into two groups: Group 1 (high thermal protective performance-based fabric systems) and Group 2 (low thermal protective performance-based fabric systems). The fabric systems in each of these TPPI groups were further categorized based on the typical TCPI values obtained from the k-means clustering algorithm. In this study, these categorized fabric systems showed either high or low thermal protective performance with low, medium, or high thermo-physiological comfort performance. Finally, a tool for using these categorized fabric systems was prepared and presented graphically. The allocations of the fabric systems within the categorization tool have been verified based on their properties (e.g., thermal resistance, weight, evaporative resistance) and construction parameters (e.g., woven, nonwoven, layers), which significantly affect the performance. In this way, we identified key characteristics among the categorized fabric systems which can be used to upgrade or develop high-performance fabric systems. Overall, the categorization tool developed in this study could help clothing manufacturers or textile engineers select and/or develop appropriate fabric systems with maximum thermal protective performance and thermo-physiological comfort performance. Thermal protective clothing manufactured using this type of newly developed fabric system could provide better occupational health and safety for firefighters.
An updated meta-analysis on the effect of peer tutoring on tutors’ achievement
Authors: Leung Kim Chau
Published: October 2018

Meta-analyses on the effect of peer tutoring have rarely examined the effect of peer tutoring on tutors’ academic gain. Some previous analyses are dated and have methodological or theoretical limitations. Hence, there is a compelling need to fill this gap by conducting an updated and comprehensive meta-analysis for identifying certain determinants of best practices for peer tutoring on tutors’ academic achievement in the present study. Additionally, role theory and equity theory in peer tutoring were tested. The present meta-analytic study examined 16 articles using The comprehensive meta-analysis software programme and SPSS macro for analyses. It was found that the weighted mean effect size was 0.43 ( p < 0.001). Moreover, the crucial parameters for optimizing the effectiveness of peer tutoring interventions are identified as follows: Tutees with low academic ability; tutors coming from secondary school; fewer tutor training sessions per week; shorter tutor training time per session; choosing mathematics as subject content; random assignment of tutees and tutors; structured peer tutoring; same-age non-reciprocal peer tutoring; same-sex dyad grouping; and more weekly tutoring sessions but longer tutoring time for each session.
Just Sustainability in the Global South: A Case Study of the Megacity of Dhaka
Authors: Ahmed Saleh , Meenar Mahbubur
Published: October 2018

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, accommodates 18 million people and is one of the largest megacities in the world. A large share of its population is poor and lives in informal settlements which can be called slums. In addition to precarious and unhealthy living conditions, these slum dwellers lack formal land tenure rights and therefore are subject to government-supported evictions. Slum evictions due to various urban development pressures may bring short-term benefits to the urban real estate market but have adverse long-term effects on sustainability and livelihoods of the city’s poor residents. Using the conceptual lens of just sustainability (JS)—which facilitates an investigation of the normative and practical challenges of sustainability and environmental justice—the authors argue that urban development in Dhaka needs to ensure social justice and sustainability. While the geographic focus of this article is Dhaka, this study has direct relevance—in terms of policy and planning implications—for other cities in the Global South.
Symptom Cluster Science in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Lockwood Mark B. , Chung SeonYoon , Puzantian Houry , Bronas Ulf G. , Ryan Catherine J. , Park Chang , DeVon Holli A.
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this review was to synthesize evidence on symptom clusters in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The quality of studies was evaluated using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Twelve articles met inclusion criteria. Patients had CKD ranging from Stages 2 through 5. Most studies determined clusters using variable-centered approaches based on symptoms; however, one used a person-centered approach based on demographic and clinical characteristics. The number of clusters identified ranged from two to five. Several clusters were prominent across studies including symptom dimensions of fatigue/energy/sleep, neuromuscular/pain, gastrointestinal, skin, and uremia; however, individual symptoms assigned to clusters varied widely. Several clusters correlated with patient outcomes, including health-related quality of life and mortality. Identifying symptom clusters in CKD is a nascent field, and more research is needed on symptom measures and statistical methods for clustering. The clinical implications of symptom clusters remain unclear.
Postpartum dissection in bovine aorta with anomalous brachiocephalic vessels
Authors: De Martino Andrea , Falcetta Giosuè , Scioti Giovanni , Pucci Angela , Bortolotti Uberto
Published: October 2018

A 42-year-old woman, with no evidence of connective tissue disease, presented with acute aortic dissection after an uneventful vaginal delivery following an uncomplicated pregnancy. Emergency computed tomography angiography showed a bovine aortic arch with a separate origin of the left vertebral artery. At surgery, a tricuspid aortic valve was found and the aortic arch was successfully repaired with reimplantation of a button incorporating the origin of the brachiocephalic vessels. Acute aortic dissection throughout pregnancy is uncommon and favoured by hemodynamic, hormonal, and histological changes. Anomalies of the aortic arch branches might represent an increased risk of thoracic aortic diseases.
Executive function deficit in betel-quid-dependent chewers: Mediating role of prefrontal cortical thickness
Authors: Zhu Xueling , Liu Shaohui , Liao Weihua , Kong Lingyu , Jiang Canhua , Yuan Fulai
Published: October 2018

Background:

Betel quid is the fourth most popular psychoactive agent worldwide. Neuroimaging studies have suggested betel-quid dependence is accompanied by abnormality in brain structure and function. However, the neural correlates of executive function deficit and prefrontal cortical thickness associated with betel-quid chewing still remain unclear.

Objective:

The present study aimed to examine the relationship between executive function deficit and prefrontal cortical thickness in chronic betel-quid chewers.

Methods:

Twenty-three betel-quid-dependent chewers and 26 healthy controls were recruited to participate in this study. Executive function was tested using three tasks. Cortical thickness analysis was analyzed with the FreeSurfer software package.

Results:

Behavioral results suggested a profound deficit of executive function in betel-quid-dependent chewers. Cortical thickness analysis revealed thinner cortex in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in betel-quid-dependent chewers. Further analysis suggested that cortical thickness of the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex mediated the correlation of betel-quid chewing and executive function.

Conclusions:

These results suggest the important role of executive function and cortical thickness of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex with betel-quid chewing. Our findings provide evidence that executive function deficit may be mediated by the cortical thickness of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. These results could potentially help us develop novel ways to diagnose and prevent betel-quid dependence.
Localization of radio-recurrence within the prostate: anti-3-18F-FACBC PET/CT compared with multiparametric MRI using histopathology as reference standard
Authors: Tulipan Andreas Julius , Hole Knut Håkon , Vlatkovic Ljiljana , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth , Reijnen Jeroen Sebastiaan , Willoch Frode , Seierstad Therese , Lilleby Wolfgang
Published: October 2018

Background

Focal treatment of prostate cancer recurrence is emerging and increases the demand for precision in imaging; pure detection is no longer enough and accurate localization is needed.

Purpose

To investigate the ability of anti-1-amino-3-[18F]fluorocyclobutane-1-carboxylic acid (FACBC) PET/CT to localize radio-recurrences within the prostate, compared to multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and with histopathology as the reference standard.

Material and Methods

This prospective salvage focal brachytherapy protocol included 20 patients (mean age = 66 years; age range = 57–72 years) with biochemical recurrence after primary radiotherapy. All patients underwent mpMRI, FACBC PET/CT, prostate biopsies, and bone marrow aspiration. The mean time between mpMRI and FACBC PET/CT was 68 days (range = 5–147 days). Two radiologists and two nuclear medicine physicians independently interpreted MRI and PET. Based on schematic drawings, the quadrant (right, left, anterior, posterior) and the level (apex, mid, base) of tumor recurrence were compared and correlated to histopathology. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients.

Results

PET correctly localized the recurrence in 15 of 20 patients and MRI correctly localized 19 of 20 patients. MRI and PET were concordant for 14 of these 20 patients. There was perfect agreement between the MRI radiologists. Except for one case in which the lesion was only detected by one of the readers, there was also agreement between the nuclear medicine physicians.

Conclusions

FACBC PET/CT detected fewer histological verified radio-recurrences within the prostate than mpMRI. In accordance with previous studies, we found that the limitations of FACBC PET were small tumor amounts and uptake in hyperplastic benign tissue.
Impact of setup orientation on blend electrospinning of poly-ε-caprolactone-gelatin scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering
Authors: Suresh Sinduja , Gryshkov Oleksandr , Glasmacher Birgit
Published: October 2018

Introduction:

This article explores the effect of horizontal and vertical setups on blend electrospinning with two polymers having vastly different properties – poly-ε-caprolactone and gelatin, and subsequent effect of the resulting microstructure on viability of seeded cells.

Methods:

Poly-ε-caprolactone and gelatin of varying blend concentrations were electrospun in horizontal and vertical setup orientations. NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were seeded on these scaffolds to assess cell viability changes in accordance with change in microstructure.

Results:

Blend electrospinning yielded a heterogeneous microstructure in the vertical orientation beyond a critical concentration of gelatin, and a homogeneous microstructure in the horizontal orientation. Unblended poly-ε-caprolactone electrospinning showed no significant difference in fibre diameter or pore size in either orientation. Mechanical testing showed reduced elasticity when poly-ε-caprolactone is blended with gelatin but an overall increase in tensile strength in the vertically spun samples. Cells on vertically spun samples showed significantly higher viabilities by day 7.

Discussion:

The composite microstructure obtained in vertically spun poly-ε-caprolactone -gelatin blends has a positive effect on viability of seeded cells. Such scaffolds can be considered suitable candidates for cardiovascular tissue engineering where cell infiltration is crucial.
Performance evaluation of an on-site biocomplex textile as an alternative daily cover in a sanitary landfill, South Korea
Authors: Yun Jeonghee , Jung Hyekyeng , Choi Hyungjoo , Oh Kyung-Cheol , Jeon Jun-Min , Ryu Hee Wook , Cho Kyung-Suk
Published: October 2018

The performance of a biocomplex textile prototype was evaluated as an alternative daily cover at an operational landfill site to mitigate odors and methane. The biocomplex textile prototype consisted of two layers of nonwoven fabric and biocarrier immobilized microorganisms and showed excellent removal of odors and methane compared to landfill cover soil. The complex odor intensity (odor dilution ratio (ODR)) on the surface of landfill cover soil was 1,000–10,000 ODR (average of 4,204 ODR), whereas it was 5–250 ODR (average of 55 ODR) on the surface of biocomplex textile. Hydrogen sulfide, which contributes a significant odor intensity, had an average concentration on the biocomplex textile of 8.64 parts-per-billion (ppb), compared to 1733.21 ppb on the landfill cover soil. The biocomplex textile also showed effective methane removal with methane concentrations of 0–1.2% (average of 0.3%) on the biocomplex textile compared to 0–20% (average of 5.3%) on the landfill cover soil. Bacterial community diversity in the biocomplex textile increased with time until an operating period of 66 days, after which diversity indices were maintained at a constant level. The dominant species were the methanotrophs Methylocaldum and Methylobacter, and the non-methanotrophs Acinetobacter, Serpens, Ohtaekwangia, and Actinophytocola. These results demonstrate that on-site biocomplex textile is a suitable alternative daily cover to mitigate odors and methane in landfills.
Relationship Between Near-Infrared Spectroscopy-Derived Cerebral Oxygenation and Delirium in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bendahan Nathaniel , Neal Oliver , Ross-White Amanda , Muscedere John , Boyd J. Gordon
Published: October 2018

Background:

A common neurological complication of critical illness is delirium, defined as an acute change in level of consciousness, with impaired attention and disorganized thinking. Patients with delirium have increased risk of long-term cognitive dysfunction and mortality. The cause is unknown, which limits our ability to design therapeutic interventions. In patients undergoing surgery, low regional cerebral oxygenation (rSO2), as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), is associated with postoperative neurological dysfunction (eg delirium and long-term cognitive impairment). However, the relationship between NIRS-derived rSO2 and neurological outcomes in critically ill patients is unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the utilization of NIRS-derived rSO2 in critically ill patients outside the operating theater. We aimed to examine the relationship between rSO2 and neurological outcomes as well as to report rSO2 values in this population.

Methods:

The following databases were searched from inception to August 14, 2017: Ovid MedLine, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science.

Results:

Of 1410 articles identified by the search strategy, 8 were ultimately selected for final review. Most (7 of 8) were published since 2014. These studies included a total of 213 patients primarily with shock or respiratory failure. A variety of devices were used to measure rSO2, including INVOS and FORESIGHT. The duration of recording varied from 5 minutes to 72 hours. Four of the 8 studies reported on neurological outcomes. In all 4 studies, rSO2 was lower in critically ill patients who were delirious compared to controls, but this was only statistically significant in 2 of the studies. The heterogeneity in devices and duration of recording precluded meta-analysis.

Conclusions:

There is limited literature describing rSO2 in critically ill patients outside the operating room. Although there may be a slight signal of an association between low rSO2 and delirium, more study is needed to explore this relationship.
Media Effects on Bystander Intervention: The Role of Exemplification, Framing, Risk Perception, and Motivations
Authors: Krämer Benjamin , Schindler Johanna
Published: October 2018

This study examines how media coverage of bystander intervention affects helping behavior in similar situations, taking into account the role of motivations for and against helping. In a 2 × 4 factorial online experiment, a newspaper report on a case of bystander intervention was varied in terms of a (a) good versus bad outcome for the helper and (b) four types of framing targeting motivations for and against helping. Results show that risk perception, rejection of responsibility, motivation by social approval, and moral motivation are highly associated with the intention to intervene and with projected behavior. However, hardly any media effects on these factors could be found. Nevertheless, our findings hint at other paths of media influence on helping behavior.
The influence of adding long basalt fiber on the mechanical and thermal properties of composites based on poly(oxymethylene)
Authors: Bazan Patrycja , Kuciel Stanisław , Sądej Mariola
Published: October 2018

The work has evaluated the possibility of the potential reinforcing of poly(oxymethylene) (POM) by basalt fibers (BFs) and influence of BFs addition on thermal properties. Two types of composites were produced by injection molding. There were 20 and 40 wt% long BFs content with an average length of 1 mm. The samples were made without using a compatibilizer. In the experimental part, the basic mechanical properties (tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, strain at break, flexural modulus, flexural strength, and deflection at 3.5% strain) of composites based on POM were determined. Tensile properties were also evaluated at three temperatures −20°C, 20°C, and 80°C. The density and Charpy impact of the produced composites were also examined. The influence of water absorption on mechanical properties was investigated. Thermal properties were conducted by the differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, and fourier transform infrared (FTIR)-attenuation total reflection (ATR) spectroscopy analysis. In order to make reference to the effects of reinforcement and determine the structure characteristics, scanning electron microscopy images were taken. The addition of 20 and 40 wt% by weight of fibers increases the strength and the stiffness of such composites by more than 30–70% in the range scale of temperature. Manufactured composites show higher thermal and dimensional stability in relation to neat POM.
Multifactor optimization of FDM process parameters for development of rapid tooling using SiC/Al2O3-reinforced LDPE filament
Authors: Bedi Piyush , Singh Rupinder , Ahuja IPS
Published: October 2018

In this work, multifactor optimization of fused deposition modeling (FDM) process parameters has been reported for in-house prepared feedstock filament comprising of SiC/Al2O3 reinforced in recycled low-density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix with different particle sizes (i.e. single particle size (SPS), double particle size (DPS), and triple particle size (TPS) in different proportions). This study has been conducted on Al2O3-based DPS reinforcement in LDPE, which came out as a better solution during pilot experimentation in comparison to SPS, TPS, and SiC reinforcement, for printing of functional prototypes as rapid tooling (RT). The result of study suggests that infill angle in the FDM process is the most significant process parameter (contributing around 93%) for preparation of RT as regards dimensional accuracy and hardness is concerned. The RT so prepared is thermally stable as evident from differential scanning calorimetry analysis. Further, the photomicrographs observed in different planes suggest that, at the proposed settings, RT has a uniform distribution of reinforcement in LDPE matrix and can be gainfully used in light machining applications.
A survey on fatigue life analysis approaches for metallic notched components under multi-axial loading
Authors: Luo Peng , Yao Weixing , Wang Yingyu , Li Piao
Published: October 2018

In this paper, several fatigue failure approaches of metallic notched components under multi-axial loading in recent decades are reviewed in detail. They are classified into three categories according to their different fatigue physical mechanisms and hypotheses: nominal stress approach, local stress–strain approach and the theory of critical distance. The accuracy, applicable range and computing complexity of these three different fatigue failure theories of metallic notched specimen under multi-axial fatigue loading are given. It is concluded that theory of critical distance accords with experimental results under multi-axial fatigue loading and it gives unambiguous explanation for physical mechanism of fatigue damage. However, the computing process is complex, especially under non-proportional fatigue loading, and the key parameter of theory of critical distance is difficult to calculate especially in engineering. These difficulties limit the application of theory of critical distance.
Cell-bound complement activation products (CB-CAPs) have high sensitivity and specificity in pediatric-onset systemic lupus erythematosus and correlate with disease activity
Authors: Hui-Yuen J S , Gartshteyn Y , Ma M , O’Malley T , Conklin J , Eichenfield A H , Imundo L F , Dervieux T , Askanase A D
Published: October 2018

Objective

Elevated levels of cell-bound complement activation products (CB-CAPs) (C4d deposition on B lymphocytes (BC4d) and/or erythrocytes (EC4d)) are sensitive and specific in diagnosis and monitoring of adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our objective was to evaluate the role of CB-CAPs for diagnosis and monitoring of pediatric-onset SLE (pSLE).

Methods

A prospective cohort study of 28 pSLE and 22 juvenile arthritis patients was conducted. SLE disease activity was determined using a clinical Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) that excluded serologies. Autoantibodies were measured using solid-phase immunoassays, C3 and C4 using immunoturbidimetry, and CB-CAPs using quantitative flow cytometry. Abnormal CB-CAPs were defined as EC4d or BC4d above the 99th percentile for healthy adults (>14 and > 60 net mean fluorescence intensity (MFI), respectively). Performance characteristics of CB-CAPs were assessed using area under the curve (AUC) for receiver operating characteristics. Linear mixed effect models evaluated the correlation between CB-CAPs and clinical SLEDAI over 6 months.

Results

BC4d yielded higher AUC (0.91 ± 0.04) than C3 (0.63 ± 0.08) and C4 (0.67 ± 0.08) ( p < 0.05). Abnormal CB-CAPs were 78% sensitive and 86% specific for diagnosis of pSLE (Youden’s index = 0.64 ± 0.11). In contrast to BC4d, EC4d levels correlated with clinical SLEDAI ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion

CB-CAPs (EC4d and BC4d) have higher sensitivity and specificity than low complement in pSLE, and may help with diagnosis of pSLE. EC4d could provide a useful biomarker for disease activity monitoring.