bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of free interface-based reduction techniques for nonlinear forced response analysis of shrouded blades
Authors: Mashayekhi Fahimeh , Zucca Stefano , Nobari Ali S
Published: August 2019

The efficient dynamic stress assessment of turbine blades is of prime importance in turbomachinery design. An accurate prediction of forced response level of shrouded blades requires a very detailed finite element model in addition to a nonlinear solver. In order to perform nonlinear forced response analysis of blades at an affordable computational cost, applying a model order reduction technique is essential. The appeal for component mode synthesis methods in dimension reduction of structures with friction contacts is due to the possibility of retaining a subset of physical degrees of freedom (e.g. the contact degrees of freedom) in the set of generalized coordinates. In this paper, a reduction method recently developed for nonlinear forced response analysis of structures with local nonlinearity is evaluated and compared with two classical component mode synthesis reduction techniques. All three methods have the same projection basis, which includes residual flexibility attachment modes and free interface modes, but different implementation. The response is computed in the frequency domain using multiharmonic balance method and periodic contact forces are modeled with a node-to-node 3D friction contact model. In order to demonstrate the efficiency of the three formulations, a rod and a simplified shrouded turbine blade are considered as case studies.
Anti-IFNAR treatment does not reverse neuropsychiatric disease in MRL/lpr lupus mice
Authors: Huang M W , Stock A D , Mike E V , Herlitz L , Kolbeck R , Putterman C
Published: August 2019

Objective

Many systemic lupus erythematosus patients display a type I interferon (IFN) signature, and IFNα levels positively correlate with disease severity. Previous studies blocking the type I IFN pathway systemically in lupus models showed some beneficial effects. However, its effects on neuropsychiatric manifestations have yet to be carefully assessed, even though IFNα has been associated with induction of depression. Our aim was to investigate whether disrupting the type I IFN pathway would attenuate the development of murine neuropsychiatric lupus.

Methods

Female MRL/ lpr mice were administered an antitype I IFN receptor (IFNAR) antibody or a control antibody intraperitoneally three times weekly for 12 weeks starting at age 4–5 weeks. Behavior was assessed during and at the end of the treatment schedule.

Results

No significant differences were seen between the anti-IFNAR– and control-treated mice when assessing for depression-like behavior or cognitive dysfunction, although anti-IFNAR antibody–treated mice displayed significant decreases in levels of IFN-stimulated genes. Anti-IFNAR treatment also did not significantly improve brain histology, cellular infiltration, or blood-brain barrier integrity.

Conclusions

Surprisingly, our results showed no improvement in neuropsychiatric disease and suggest that the role of IFNAR signaling in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric lupus continues to need to be carefully assessed.
An Analysis of Standard of Living Index in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur District: An Application of Average Correlation Method
Authors: Pattanayek Sanjoy Kumar , Mookherjee Subikash , Mondal Debasish
Published: August 2019

This article attempts to assess the role of standard of living (SL) as a development indicator belonging to the arena of famous Human Development Index for all the 29 blocks of undivided Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal for the period 2005–2006 to 2014–2015. This purpose is fulfilled through the construction of Standard of Living Index (SLI) in which the weights of the underlying parameters are obtained by the application of iterative average correlation method (Mondal, Mookherjee, & Pattanayek, 2017, International Journal of Management and Development Studies, 6[10], 28–36). The SLI, thus constructed, is observed to have high inter-block and high inter-temporal variations. These variations are explained by some of the selected factors of SL, namely, literacy rate, non-agricultural labour ratio, scheduled tribe ratio, population density (PD) and per capita food grain production by applying fixed effect model and random effect model in the panel data framework and by applying pooled data model to obtain their relative statistical importance on the basis of their ortho-partial correlation (Mondal, 2008, Communication in Statistics—Simulation and Computation, 37[4], 713–730) and average correlation values. From the pooled regression results, it appears that the PD is the most important factor with the relative importance of 0.1496 out of 0.4987.
Government Interventions on Tobacco Control in India: A Critical Review
Authors: Mukherjee Sanchita , Mishra U. S.
Published: August 2019

Tobacco use is a serious concern in India since it is one of the largest producers and consumers of tobacco in the world. With growing evidence of health hazards caused by tobacco, Government of India had enacted various tobacco control legislations. This article provides a critical review of such government interventions. It traces tobacco practices and production trends in India, and proceeds further to provide a detailed account of the history of such interventions to understand the effectiveness of such policies, and stresses on the role of tobacco companies to weaken tobacco control policies in India. This article concludes that though tobacco control has taken a long leap forward with the introduction of various legislative steps to prohibit tobacco use across the country, review of these policies shows their inadequacy not only in enforcement but also in issues related to (a) the interference of the tobacco industry, (b) issues with tobacco taxation and (c) the failure of government to rehabilitate people involved with cultivation, production and distribution of tobacco products.
Empirics of Human Development in India,1990–2015
Authors: Chaurasia Aalok Ranjan
Published: August 2019

This article uses the annual estimates of the human development index (HDI) prepared by the Global Data Lab of the Radboud University of The Netherlands to analyse the progress of human development in India during 1990–2015. The analysis reveals that human development in the country remains comparatively low by global standards and there are considerable variations in human development across states/union territories, although there is evidence of convergence in human development across states/union territories. The decomposition of the improvement in the HDI indicates that the progress in human development in the country has primarily been the result of the progress in the education dimension whereas the contribution of the progress in the dimension of health or well-being has been the smallest. The article calls for redesigning the National Sample Survey to generate data necessary for the estimation of the HDI on an annual basis at national and state/union territory level.
Mohalla Clinics in Delhi: A Preliminary Assessment of their Functioning and Coverage
Authors: Sah Taniya , Kaushik Rituparna , Bailwal Neha , Tep Neisetuonuo
Published: August 2019

The Government of Delhi introduced the policy of Mohalla Clinics in 2015 in order to improve its health care system. It was aimed at providing primary health care to people in their neighbourhood, with a particular focus on people residing in poor localities of Delhi. This article seeks to assess the role of Mohalla Clinics in the urban health care system. Based on a primary survey conducted in various areas of Delhi, we find that these clinics have helped in easing the pressure on tertiary care hospitals by providing treatment of minor ailments within the vicinity of neighbourhood. Overall, people positively endorse this initiative which contributed to a decline in out-of-pocket expenditure on medicines and tests. We find that Mohalla Clinics are ensuring better geographical access to health services by reducing time in commuting and waiting. Their scope, however, can be further broadened by introducing provisions for pregnant and lactating women, who constitute a major section of the patients visiting these clinics.
Impoverishment Due to Out-of-pocket Health Expenditures: Measurement and Comparison Across Different Surveys in India
Authors: Goyanka Roopali , Garg Charu C. , Prasad Sheela
Published: August 2019

Various estimates of impoverishment on account of out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) on health are available for India, covering different time periods, but there is a void in terms of comparable estimates. This article uses national level surveys conducted by National Sample Survey Organization for measurement of living standards (Consumption Expenditure Survey [CES]) for 2004–2005 and 2011–2012 and Health and Morbidity Survey (HMS) for 2004 and 2014 to quantify the trends in impoverishment estimates over time and identify the factors explaining these trends. Using consistent methodology, it is estimated that the increase in the number of persons impoverished due to OOPE using HMS is 19.78 million (from 77.9 million to 97.78 million) between 2004 and 2014, while using CES, the increase is 2.90 million (from 51.48 to 54.38 million) between 2004–2005 and 2011–2012. Expenditure on outpatient care including drugs led to 72 million people being pushed below poverty line in 2014. Most of the increase in impoverishment has come in lower income quintiles both in rural and urban areas. Government needs to focus on reducing OOPE for bottom three income quintiles and more specifically the household expenditure on medicines.
Book review: Katrine Marçal, Who Cooked Adam Smith’s Dinner: A Story About Women and Economics
Authors: Narayan Swati
Published: August 2019

Katrine Marçal, Who Cooked Adam Smith’s Dinner: A Story About Women and Economics. Translated by Saskia Vogel, London, UK: Portobello Books, 2015 (Reprint 2017), 320 pp. ISBN 978-1-84627-566-1.
A Realist Evaluation of a Community-Centered Radio Initiative for Health and Development in Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: James Ross W. , Romo-Murphy Eila , Oczon-Quirante Mae-Mosette
Published: August 2019

A small, local-level communication initiative aimed to bring about social change and development in communities affected by sustained conflict in Mindanao, Philippines. A realist evaluation involved a secondary analysis of existing data sets that revealed previously undetected mechanisms and 13 outcomes for improving dialogue, livelihood, and participatory communication. This article describes the method developed for the realist evaluation and constructs Context-Mechanism-Outcome configurations from the existing data sets. The realist evaluation represents what took place in a context characterized by conflict, disadvantage and disempowerment through 2 key mechanisms, community-centered radio and community radio volunteers. Both mechanisms became voices for the voiceless. The community-centered radio program supported community volunteers to mobilize communities to participate in radio segments, offering opportunities for their voices to be heard on local issues resulting in discussion, provision of services not previously offered, community leaders more responsive to community needs, and coordinated community action that resolved needs.
Student Perceptions in Homeland Security and Emergency Management Education: Experiential Learning Survey
Authors: Danko Tiffany
Published: August 2019

Background: Experiential learning is a common instructional method for Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) education. Purpose: The purpose of this research was to pilot the use of the experiential learning survey (ELS) tool in determining student perceptions of the value and contribution of experiential learning methods in HSEM higher education. Methodology/Approach: The descriptive quantitative study used a census sampling strategy, administering the ELS to students in a graduate HSEM capstone course incorporating experiential opportunities. Findings/Conclusions: Students reported a high level of satisfaction and engagement with the course’s experiential education in part due to its applicability to real-world professional concerns. This included high scores for measures of effectiveness within the ELS subscales. Building on the development and application of the ELS to other fields, the subscales and global scale had good reliability for this study. Implications: This first application of ELS in HSEM education provides insight into student perceptions toward experiential learning practices, and as a tool for evaluating these approaches to HSEM higher education. This pilot supports the ELS as a potential tool in developing research-based practices for instructional development and curriculum evaluations in disciplines incorporating experiential learning.
Inclusion of Family Therapy in Rehabilitation Program of Substance Abuse and Its Efficacious Implementation
Authors: Ulaş Enver , Ekşi Halil
Published: August 2019

The family has been described as the center or heart of societal relationships. There has been a historic neglect of research in area of counseling for the family members of substance abusers. As result, treatment for individual family members affected by alcoholism and drug addiction remains a neglected component of majority of addiction programs. The study used a sample of 36 families who participated in family therapy intensive outpatient and inpatient treatment program during 2 years. This study explored the efficacy of family-based treatment in changing family’s attitudes toward people with addiction and toward specific relative with addiction. The participants were in two groups; ethnographic technique of action research model was used. Participants in the treatment group received treatment session and participants in the control group did not receive treatment session but had a general treatment program in health centers. This study had two phases: (1) recruiting, selecting, interviewing, and determining eligibility of family members from both groups in the study and (2) applying the intervention to the treatment group with the help of cognitive-behavioral group counseling. This treatment program comprised of solution-focused family skilled training therapy, action learning techniques, community and peer mentorship, and parent training was effective in reducing addicts drug ingestion, changing their attitudes about drug use, increasing knowledge of the physical consequences of drug use, and improving competent behaviors. Family therapy enhanced family resilience, structure, and strong ties; the program improved problem-solving skills, coping skills, and family resiliency levels of the addicts.
Immune-mediated adverse events following influenza vaccine in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Gwynn Morgan E , DeRemer David L , Saunders Katherine M , Parikh Jigarkumar , Bollag Roni J , Clemmons Amber B
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors has transformed treatment paradigms for various malignancies. Patients with cancer are at increased risk of complications and hospitalizations from influenza; therefore, it is recommended that they receive inactivated influenza vaccination. However, efficacy and safety of inactivated influenza vaccination in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors is uncertain. The objective of this prospective case series was to evaluate the incidence of immune-mediated adverse events (imAEs) following inactivated influenza vaccination in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. Changes in cytokine and chemokine levels were also evaluated.

Methods

Patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors during the 2017–2018 influenza season were eligible for study participation. Peripheral blood samples were collected prior to administration of inactivated influenza vaccine and two post-vaccination time points. Evaluation of new or worsening imAEs occurred via patient questionnaire and review of medical records for 60 days following inactivated influenza vaccination. Baseline imAEs were evaluated from review of medical records for 60 days prior to inactivated influenza vaccination. Serum cytokines and chemokines were measured using a multiplex Luminex assay.

Results

Twenty-four patients were enrolled in this study. Seven patients experienced any grade imAE (one patient having 2) within 60 days following inactivated influenza vaccination. The majority were Grades 1–2, including rash ( n = 3), hypothyroidism, myalgia, and colitis ( n = 1 each). Two patients experienced severe imAEs (grade 3 nephritis and grade 4 diabetes). No significant changes ( p > 0.05) in serum cytokine or chemokine concentrations were observed.

Conclusions

Although small, our study suggests that inactivated influenza vaccine may be safely administered to patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. The majority of imAEs following inactivated influenza vaccination were Grades 1-2 and did not require changes in immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Management and clinical outcomes in uterine malignant mixed Müllerian tumor: Lessons from a single-institution series
Authors: Dasanu Constantin A , Iskandar Andrew S , Hwang Andrew , Kerr Wesley T , Farrell Stephanie , Grover Mayumi , Ocampo Miguel Michel , Lerner Jaren , Plaxe Steven C
Published: August 2019

Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor remains an important contributor to morbidity and mortality in women with uterine cancer. Surgery is the primary treatment modality, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation for advanced disease or high-risk patients. Clinico-epidemiologic characteristics and outcomes in older versus younger women with Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor may differ. We analyzed and now report on 15 consecutive patients with uterine Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor treated at our institution from 2000 to 2018. The mean age at diagnosis was 65 years; 60% (9/15) patients were overweight/obese. Forty-six percent (7/15) had hypercholesterolemia, an association not previously linked with Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor in the literature. All patients but one had surgical excision of the tumor. A third of patients received adjuvant radiation therapy. A majority of patients received chemotherapy; the preferred regimen was carboplatin-paclitaxel. The patients older than 70 had a tendency towards a more advanced disease stage at diagnosis and a significantly shorter cancer-specific survival than their younger counterparts (6 months vs. 102 months (hazard ratio 1.32, p = 0.02)). Our study's conclusions are restricted due to its relatively small size, retrospective design, and some variation in the chemotherapy doses administered in individual patients. Larger studies are needed to confirm the significance of our findings.
Biochemical and Electroretinographic Characterization of the Minipig Eye in the Context of Drug Safety Investigations
Authors: Negro Silva Luis Fernando , Li Christian , de Seadi Pereira Paula Juliana Brizuela , Tan Wendy , Dubuc-Mageau Michelle , Sanfacon Audrey , Forster Roy , Tavcar Robert , Makin Andy , Authier Simon
Published: August 2019

Minipigs are an emerging nonrodent alternative for ocular toxicology owing to anatomical similarities in the minipig eyes when compared to humans. Ocular structures and components from Göttingen minipigs were characterized and compared to species commonly used in toxicology. Ocular reference data from Göttingen minipig including intraocular pressure, vitreous electrolyte and thiol concentration, and electroretinography (ERG) data are essential to model characterization and data interpretation during drug safety assessments. Intravitreal positive control agents including gentamicin, indocyanine green, and glycine were used to demonstrate ERG alterations caused by retinal cell toxicity, light transmission obstruction, or neurotransmission interferences, respectively. Electrolyte concentrations of the aqueous and vitreous humors from Göttingen minipigs were similar to other species including humans. The reference data presented herein supports the use of the Göttingen minipig as an alternate nonrodent species in ocular toxicology.
Pharmacovigilance Assessment of Drug-Induced Acute Pancreatitis Using a Spontaneous Reporting Database
Authors: Niinomi Iku , Hosohata Keiko , Oyama Saki , Inada Ayaka , Wakabayashi Tomohito , Iwanaga Kazunori
Published: August 2019

Background:

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is associated with risks of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of AP recently increased compared to that traditionally reported in the literature.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible association between AP and drugs using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database, which is a spontaneous reporting database of adverse drug events.

Methods:

Adverse event reports submitted to the JADER database between 2004 and 2017 were analyzed. Disproportionality analysis was performed by calculating the reporting odds ratio (ROR) with 95% confidence intervals for signal detection.

Results:

A total of 3,443 reports (0.17% of all adverse events) were identified as drug-induced AP, in which 431 different drugs were involved. Acute pancreatitis was frequently reported in men (58.5%) in their 60s (19.1%); 40.6% developed AP within 4 weeks after the treatment. Among the most frequently reported drugs, signals were detected for prednisolone, ribavirin, sitagliptin, mesalazine, tacrolimus, and l-asparaginase, which are well-known causes of AP. Telaprevir, donepezil, and ustekinumab also generated signals. As for drugs with high RORs, l-asparaginase and alogliptin were noteworthy.

Conclusion:

Most of the identified drugs were already known to induce AP, but the likelihood of the reporting of AP varied among the drugs. Our results should raise physicians’ awareness of drugs associated with AP, but further investigation of these medications is warranted.
Investigation of hBN powder lubricating characteristics of die steel H13–ceramic Si3N4 tribopair at 800 ℃
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wang Wei , Hu Zhaowen , Liu Kun , Chang Jingjing
Published: August 2019

In the background that hot-working die steels have been widely used in the hot stamping process of high strength steels for manufacturing car bodies and parts, solid lubricant materials are promising for decreasing the friction and wear on die surfaces at high temperatures. In this work, hexagonal boron nitride was used to lubricate the sliding interface of ceramic Si3N4 against die steel H13 at 800 ℃, and its frictional behavior was investigated at different contact pressures and rotating speeds by pin-on-disk testing. Tribological characteristics of hexagonal boron nitride solid lubricant were analyzed through 3D laser scanning confocal microscope and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The results show that the wear behavior of hexagonal boron nitride powder lubricating film featured two stages: gradual undermining and complete damage. The formation-broken dynamic cycle of partial lubricating film constantly occurred at the frictional interface until the film was completely destroyed. In a short period, the hexagonal boron nitride lubricant can reduce the friction coefficient efficiently compared with dry friction, and the die substrate showed basically no abrasion because a layer of plasticity accumulated on the die surface, which protected the substrate. In a certain range, the boundary-lubricating film became damaged rapidly with increasing load, and high speed was not conducive to the stability of the lubricating film.
Establishing a framework for listening to children in healthcare
Authors: Davies Clare , Fraser Jennifer , Waters Donna
Published: August 2019

The principle that children and young people are capable of forming their own views, have the right to express those views, and are entitled to have those views taken seriously was introduced by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1989. The implications for the delivery of healthcare are clear; however, children and young people continue to experience difficulty in having their views heard and taken seriously during healthcare encounters and the effectiveness of the UNCRC, in particular Article 12 appears to be limited. This article will discuss how, 30 years on, significant barriers continue to impede the full implementation of Article 12. In recognition of the limited awareness of its scope or even existence by health professionals working with children, a framework that can facilitate a better understanding of the concept of voice, and articulate healthcare organisations’ full responsibilities when it comes to Article 12, is presented.
Civic engagement, social capital, and ideological extremity: Exploring online political engagement and political expression on Facebook
Authors: Ferrucci Patrick , Hopp Toby , Vargo Chris J
Published: August 2019

Using a method incorporating both survey and trace data measures, this study presented and tested a theoretical model for understanding political expression on Facebook. The data suggested that self-reported measures of offline civic engagement, bonded social capital, and ideological extremity were predictive of a self-reported measure of general online political engagement. For its part, self-reported levels of online political engagement were positively and significantly associated with observed political expression on Facebook. These results are discussed in the context of both on and offline political connection and communication.
Modified couple stress-based free vibration behavior of pre-twisted tapered BFGM rotating micro beam considering spin-softening and Coriolis effects
Authors: Bhattacharya Sujash , Das Debabrata
Published: August 2019

An improved mathematical model of pre-twisted tapered rotating micro beams made of bidirectional functionally graded material (BFGM) is presented to study its free vibration behavior. The effects of spin-softening and Coriolis acceleration are incorporated, and modified couple stress theory is employed to address the size effect. The mathematical formulation is based on first-order shear deformation theory and is developed in a global non-inertial frame incorporating appropriate transformations between the global inertial frame and the local non-inertial frame. Two different but interrelated steps are employed, where the first step determines the centrifugally deformed configuration using minimum potential energy principle, and the second step determines the free vibration behavior through tangent stiffness of the deformed rotating beam using Hamilton's principle. The direct use of tangent stiffness considers the centrifugal stiffening effect through von Kármán non-linearity and bypasses the need of strain energy functional for the vibrating beam. The governing equations are transformed to an eigenvalue problem through state-space approach and solved following Ritz method. The effects of spin-softening, Coriolis acceleration, and pre-twist angle are shown and discussed. The effects of different parameters such as size-dependent parameter, aspect ratio, material gradation indices, operating temperature, FGM constituent, taperness parameters, and slender parameter are discussed.
HASS PhD graduate careers and knowledge transfer: A conduit for enduring, multi-sector networks
Authors: Barnacle Robyn , Cuthbert Denise , Schmidt Christine , Batty Craig
Published: August 2019

Rising worldwide scrutiny of the PhD has focused on issues such as return on investment and career outcomes. This article investigates PhD graduate careers and knowledge transfer looking at the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS). Firstly, our extensive literature review of PhD graduate outcomes reveals limited knowledge of HASS careers and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) bias. Secondly, our case study of graduates suggests HASS PhDs provide a vital conduit for end-user engagement and knowledge transfer. Our findings deepen knowledge about the careers of HASS PhDs by revealing pre-existing professional networks may be harnessed to inform end-user relationships throughout candidature and post-graduation. Contrary to dominant assumptions, these networks may endure even for graduates in the academy. This under-recognized phenomenon demonstrates the multi-sector knowledge transfer capacity of HASS researchers with implications for their research capability and career development needs and perceptions of the value of their research.
Urban redevelopment, the new logics of expulsion, and individual precarity in Kleber Mendonça Filho’s Aquarius and Aravind Adiga’s Last Man in Tower
Authors: Mendes Ana Cristina , Lau Lisa
Published: August 2019

Drawing on Kleber Mendonça Filho’s film Aquarius (2016) and Aravind Adiga’s novel Last Man in Tower (2011), this article is concerned with the impact on individuals and communities of forms of impersonal, systemic violence resulting from neoliberal accumulation and the reproduction of mobile capital, extending existent precarities as well as opening up new precarities. We examine the experiences of the previously less precarious – that is, members of the middle classes in Recife, Brazil, and Mumbai, India – now rendered newly precarious. We frame the temporality of these precarities via themes of memory, presentism and futurity in order to depict how sites in the Global South are targeted by mobile capital, and how individuals and communities are impacted by the growing extent of precarities, eroding long-established systems of social and communal protection, and undermining social loyalties and securities. Through the narratives of a novel and a film, we analyse cultural representations of redevelopment projects as epitomes of frictionless, mobile capital. Such capital has the effect of increasing the precarity of individuals, which in turns frays the bonds of communities, heightening network and community precarities. This selection is grounded in Jacques Rancière’s argument that ‘[f]iction is at work whenever a sense of reality must be produced’ and interrelatedly in the critical space offered by the interpenetration between fiction, political life and the construction of social realities. Engaging with the fictional situations depicted in Aquarius and Last Man in Tower adds to the understanding of what happens in the lifeworld when residents are thrown into a condition of sudden and acute precarity when coerced to evacuate their long-time homes as a result of redevelopment projects, and in particular the pressures faced by the last individuals standing, especially when they speak truth to power.
Durability and notch sensitivity analysis of environmental ageing induced glass fibre mat and kenaf fibre mat-reinforced composites
Authors: Miah Md Sohag , Yu Jianyong , Yang Yuqiu , Memon Hafeezullah , Rashid Muhammad A
Published: August 2019

The durability of the notch and un-notch composites is mainly affected by environmental ageing, the condition of mechanical loading and mechanical ageing. Due to the dissimilarity of two components of fibre mat-reinforced thermosetting composites (e.g. fibre and resin), thermal stress and strain can be generated and raised by moisture, temperature variation, thermal ageing and mechanical ageing in any working environment. This study aims at investigating the effect of thermal ageing fatigue and mechanical ageing fatigue on the mechanical durability and notch sensitivity properties of glass fibre mat unsaturated polyester resin composites and kenaf fibre mat/unsaturated polyester composites. Tensile tests of smooth and notched specimens, low cycle tensile fatigue tests, dynamic mechanical analysis, stress distribution by point-stress failure criteria and notch sensitivity analysis were performed to both types of the specimens. Both composites were previously taken under up to 100 number of freeze-thaw ageing cycles (from −25 to + 58℃). It is found that the tensile modulus and un-notched strength of kenaf fibre mat/unsaturated polyester were decreased by 30 and 27%, respectively, which was more severe than that of glass fibre mat/unsaturated polyester composites. After the thermal ageing, notch (open hole) did not diminish the strength property of kenaf fibre mat/unsaturated polyester, and there was an absolute increase of characteristic distance (d0) which indicates the lower notch sensitivity of kenaf fibre mat/unsaturated polyester. Although glass fibre mat/unsaturated polyester had superior mechanical properties, after thermal ageing, while kenaf fibre mat/unsaturated polyester presented stable low cycle fatigue property, better energy absorption and notch sensitivity properties.
Laparoscopic T-Plasty for the Treatment of Refractory Bladder Neck Stenosis
Authors: Shu Hui-Quan , Wang Lin , Jin Chong-Rui , Hu Xiao-Yong , Gu Jie , Sa Ying-Long
Published: August 2019

Preliminary results of a case series on refractory bladder neck stenosis treated with laparoscopic T-plasty are presented in this article. This study retrospectively identified nine patients with refractory bladder neck stenosis aged 60 to 80 years between May 2016 and December 2017, who had undergone laparoscopic T-plasty. All patients presented voiding difficulty and failed after two or more prior endoscopic treatments. Laparoscopic T-plasty was performed by incising the anterior wall of the bladder neck in a T-shaped manner and creating two well-vascularized and tension-free flaps, which offer the possibility to reconstruct a wide bladder neck. After a mean follow-up of 14.7 months (ranging 3–22 months), a successful outcome was achieved in eight patients without incontinence secondary to surgery. Recurrent voiding difficulty developed in one patient, which was cured after a following endoscopic treatment. Through these nine patients, a preliminary conclusion can be drawn that a wider bladder neck can be obtained through modified YV-reconstruction of the bladder neck, while avoiding external urethral sphincter injury. And laparoscopic T-plasty has clear advantages compared with an open approach. It is an available and effective option for refractory bladder neck stenosis.
Endovascular versus medical therapy for large-vessel anterior occlusive stroke presenting with mild symptoms
Authors: Wolman Dylan N , Marcellus David G , Lansberg Maarten G , Albers Gregory , Guenego Adrien , Marks Michael P , Dodd Robert L , Do Huy M , Wintermark Max , Martin Blake W , Heit Jeremy J
Published: August 2019

Background

Acute ischemic stroke patients with a large-vessel occlusion but mild symptoms (NIHSS ≤ 6) pose a treatment dilemma between medical management and endovascular thrombectomy.

Aims

To evaluate the differences in clinical outcomes of endovascular thrombectomy-eligible patients with target-mismatch perfusion profiles who undergo either medical management or endovascular thrombectomy.

Methods

Forty-seven patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large-vessel occlusion, NIHSS ≤ 6, and a target-mismatch perfusion imaging profile were included. Patients underwent medical management or endovascular thrombectomy following treating neurointerventionalist and neurologist consensus. The primary outcome measure was NIHSS shift. Secondary outcome measures were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, in-hospital mortality, and 90-day mRS scores. The primary intention-to-treat and as-treated analyses were compared to determine the impact of crossover patient allocation on study outcome measures.

Results

Forty-seven patients were included. Thirty underwent medical management (64%) and 17 underwent endovascular thrombectomy (36%). Three medical management patients underwent endovascular thrombectomy due to early clinical deterioration. Presentation NIHSS ( P = 0.82), NIHSS shift ( P = 0.62), and 90-day functional independence (mRS 0–2; P = 0.25) were similar between groups. Endovascular thrombectomy patients demonstrated an increased overall rate of intracranial hemorrhage (35.3% vs. 10.0%; P = 0.04), but symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was similar between groups ( P = 0.25). In-hospital mortality was similar between groups ( P = 0.46), though all two deaths in the medical management group occurred among crossover patients. Endovascular thrombectomy patients demonstrated a longer length of stay (7.6 ± 7.2 vs. 4.3 ± 3.9 days; P = 0.04) and a higher frequency of unfavorable discharge to a skilled-nursing facility ( P = 0.03) rather than home ( P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Endovascular thrombectomy may pose an unfavorable risk-benefit profile over medical management for endovascular thrombectomy-eligible acute ischemic stroke patients with mild symptoms, which warrants a randomized trial in this subpopulation.
NOD1/NOD2-mediated recognition of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae activates innate immunity during otitis media
Authors: Lee Jasmine , Leichtle Anke , Zuckerman Emily , Pak Kwang , Spriggs Meghan , Wasserman Stephen I , Kurabi Arwa
Published: August 2019

Pathogen recognition following infection in mammals depends mainly on TLRs and NLRs. Herein, we evaluate the role of NOD1 and NOD2 signaling in the inflammatory responses of the middle ear (ME) mucosa and leukocytes recruitment to infection site during otitis media (OM). OM is a common pediatric disease with prevalent repercussions on hearing health. While many risk factors have been implicated to OM proneness, immunity and the triggering of inflammation are central to OM pathology. We observed that many genes encoding members of the NOD leucine-rich repeat and their downstream adaptor/effector molecules were strongly regulated during the course of OM. When compared to wild type C57BL/6 mice, NOD1- and NOD2-deficient mice were susceptible to prolonged OM infection by non-typeable Haemophilus influenza. NOD1-deficient mice appeared to have reduced macrophage enlistment with a delayed inflammatory response by neutrophils and prolonged mucosal hyperplasia, whereas NOD2 knockouts exhibited an overall reduction in the number of leukocytes recruited to the ME, leading to delayed bacterial clearance. Altogether, these data show that the NODs play a role in the pathogenesis and recovery of OM and reinforce the importance of innate immune signaling in the protective host response.
Long non-coding RNA profiling in LPS-induced intestinal inflammation model: New insight into pathogenesis
Authors: Guo Ling , Li Linna , Zhang Yang , Fu Shulin , Zhang Jing , Wang Xiuying , Zhu Huiling , Qiao Mu , Wu Lingying , Liu Yulan
Published: August 2019

LPS can induce an inflammatory immune response in the intestine, and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is involved in the process of inflammatory disease. However, the biological role of lncRNA in the intestinal inflammation of piglets remains unclear. In this study, the lncRNA expression profile of the ileal mucosa of piglets challenged by LPS was analysed using lncRNA sequencing. In total, 112 novel lncRNAs were predicted, of which 58 were up-regulated and 54 down-regulated following LPS challenge. Expression of 15 selected lncRNAs was validated by quantitative PCR. We further investigated the target genes of lncRNA that were enriched in the signalling pathways involved in the inflammatory immune response by utilising Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes analysis, with cell adhesion molecules and mTOR signalling pathway identified. In addition, the co-expression networks between the differentially expressed lncRNAs and the target mRNAs were constructed, with seven core lncRNAs identified, which also demonstrated that the relationship between lncRNAs and the target genes was highly correlated. Our study offers important information about the lncRNAs of the mucosal immune system in piglets and provides new insights into the inflammatory mechanism of LPS challenge, which might serve as a novel target to control intestinal inflammation.
Association between IL-6 polymorphisms and sepsis
Authors: Hu Peiyang , Chen Yimin , Pang Jianliang , Chen Xionghuan
Published: August 2019

The aim of the present study was to determine whether IL-6 polymorphisms correlate with sepsis. According to the inclusion criteria, the association of IL-6 polymorphisms with sepsis was searched in databases and analysed using comprehensive meta-analysis software. A total of 16 studies were included in this meta-analysis. There was no significant association between the IL-6-174G/C polymorphism and sepsis risk in the total population (C vs. G: OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.79–1.38; CC vs. GG: OR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.53–1.41; CG vs. GG: OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.79–1.24; dominant model: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.74–1.29; recessive model: OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.61–1.39). When patients were stratified according to ethnicity, a statistically significant association was observed in Asians and Africans. As for the -572G/C polymorphism, the results showed that the IL-6-572C/G polymorphism was not associated with sepsis susceptibility (G vs. C: OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.79–1.22; GG vs. CC: OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 0.53–4.03; GC vs. CC: OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.54–1.27; dominant model: OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.55–1.41; recessive model: OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 0.82–2.92). The data indicated that the IL-6-174G/C polymorphism may contribute to sepsis risk, especially in Africans and Asians. No significant association was observed between the IL-6-572G/C polymorphism and sepsis risk.
Succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor dimethyl malonate alleviates LPS/d-galactosamine-induced acute hepatic damage in mice
Authors: Yang Yongqiang , Shao Ruyue , Tang Li , Li Longjiang , Zhu Min , Huang Jiayi , Shen Yi , Zhang Li
Published: August 2019

In addition to its energy-supplying function, increasing evidence suggests that mitochondria also play crucial roles in the regulation of inflammation. Succinate dehydrogenase is also known as mitochondrial complex II, and inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase by dimethyl malonate has been reported to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the present study, the potential anti-inflammatory benefits of dimethyl malonate were investigated in a mouse model with LPS/d-galactosamine-induced acute hepatic damage. Male BALB/c mice were injected i.p. with LPS and d-galactosamine to cause liver injury. The degree of liver injury, inflammatory response and oxidative stress and the survival of the experimental animals were determined. The results indicated dimethyl malonate decreased the level of aminotransferases in plasma, alleviated histological abnormalities in liver, inhibited the induction of TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma, suppressed hepatocyte apoptosis and improved the survival of LPS/d-galactosamine-exposed mice. Therefore, inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase by dimethyl malonate significantly alleviated LPS/d-galactosamine-induced hepatic damage, which suggests that succinate dehydrogenase might become a novel target for the intervention of inflammation-based hepatic disorders.
A Relational Framework for Integrating the Study of Empathy in Children and Adults
Authors: Main Alexandra , Kho Carmen
Published: August 2019

The development of empathy is central to positive social adjustment. However, issues remain with integrating empathy research conducted with children, adolescents, and adults. The current article (a) provides an overview of how empathy is typically conceptualized and measured in child development and adult research, (b) describes outstanding issues concerning child development and adult research on empathy, and (c) outlines how a relational approach can provide clarity regarding how empathy develops over the course of development. We conclude by offering suggestions for future research on the development of empathy across the lifespan.
Feasibility Studies of an Insulin-Only Bionic Pancreas in a Home-Use Setting
Authors: Ekhlaspour Laya , Nally Laura M. , El-Khatib Firas H. , Ly Trang T. , Clinton Paula , Frank Eliana , Tanenbaum Molly L. , Hanes Sarah J. , Selagamsetty Rajendranath R. , Hood Korey , Damiano Edward R. , Buckingham Bruce A.
Published: August 2019

Background:

We tested the safety and performance of the “insulin-only” configuration of the bionic pancreas (BP) closed-loop blood-glucose control system in a home-use setting to assess glycemic outcomes using different static and dynamic glucose set-points.

Method:

This is an open-label non-randomized study with three consecutive intervention periods. Participants had consecutive weeks of usual care followed by the insulin-only BP with (1) an individualized static set-point of 115 or 130 mg/dL and (2) a dynamic set-point that automatically varied within 110 to 130 mg/dL, depending on hypoglycemic risk. Human factors (HF) testing was conducted using validated surveys. The last five days of each study arm were used for data analysis.

Results:

Thirteen participants were enrolled with a mean age of 28 years, mean A1c of 7.2%, and mean daily insulin dose of 0.6 U/kg (0.4-1.0 U/kg). The usual care arm had an average glucose of 145 ± 20 mg/dL, which increased in the static set-point arm (159 ± 8 mg/dL, P = .004) but not in the dynamic set-point arm (154 ± 10 mg/dL, P = ns). There was no significant difference in time spent in range (70-180 mg/dL) among the three study arms. There was less time <70 mg/dL with both the static (1.8% ± 1.4%, P = .009) and dynamic set-point (2.7±1.5, P = .051) arms compared to the usual-care arm (5.5% ± 4.2%). HF testing demonstrated preliminary user satisfaction and no increased risk of diabetes burden or distress.

Conclusions:

The insulin-only configuration of the BP using either static or dynamic set-points and initialized only with body weight performed similarly to other published insulin-only systems.
Health considerations for transgender women and remaining unknowns: a narrative review
Authors: Iwamoto Sean J. , Defreyne Justine , Rothman Micol S. , Van Schuylenbergh Judith , Van de Bruaene Laurens , Motmans Joz , T’Sjoen Guy
Published: August 2019

Transgender (trans) women (TW) were assigned male at birth but have a female gender identity or gender expression. The literature on management and health outcomes of TW has grown recently with more publication of research. This has coincided with increasing awareness of gender diversity as communities around the world identify and address health disparities among trans people. In this narrative review, we aim to comprehensively summarize health considerations for TW and identify TW-related research areas that will provide answers to remaining unknowns surrounding TW’s health. We cover up-to-date information on: (1) feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT); (2) benefits associated with GAHT, particularly quality of life, mental health, breast development and bone health; (3) potential risks associated with GAHT, including cardiovascular disease and infertility; and (4) other health considerations like HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, other tumours, voice therapy, dermatology, the brain and cognition, and aging. Although equally deserving of mention, feminizing gender-affirming surgery, paediatric and adolescent populations, and gender nonbinary individuals are beyond the scope of this review. While much of the data we discuss come from Europe, the creation of a United States transgender cohort has already contributed important retrospective data that are also summarized here. Much remains to be determined regarding health considerations for TW. Patients and providers will benefit from larger and longer prospective studies involving TW, particularly regarding the effects of aging, race and ethnicity, type of hormonal treatment (e.g. different oestrogens, anti-androgens) and routes of administration (e.g. oral, parenteral, transdermal) on all the topics we address.