bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Anaphylactic Reaction to Diclofenac during Intravenous Anesthesia for In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Videnovic Nebojsa , Markovic Nebojsa , Mladenovic Jovan , Jovic Marija , Mladenovic Rasa , Zdravkovic Ranko
Published: December 2019

We present a case of a severe anaphylactic reaction to diclofenac, administered as an intravenous infusion in a 45-year-old patient, during intravenous anesthesia for in vitro fertilization. During the preoperative clinical examination and obtaining of anamnestic data, the patient denied symptoms of allergies to medicines and other substances. The dominant clinical manifestations of anaphylactic reaction were: hypotension, tachycardia, angioedema, bronchospasm, and delayed awakening following anesthesia. No visible changes in the appearance of the skin, such as erythema or urticaria have been observed. Proper clinical observation and adequate intraoperative monitoring led to rapid diagnosis and significantly reduced the time interval from the onset of anaphylaxis to the beginning of treatment and reanimation procedures.
Relationship between Insurance Type at Diagnosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Survival
Authors: Adler Jaffe Shoshana , Myers Orrin , Meisner Angela L.W. , Wiggins Charles L. , Hill Deirdre A. , McDougall Jean A.
Published: December 2019

Background:

For individuals with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), type of insurance may be an important prognostic factor because of its impact on access to care. This study investigates the relationship between insurance type at diagnosis and stage-specific survival.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort analysis used data from 18 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program cancer registries. Individuals ages 20 to 64 years, diagnosed with primary HCC between 2010 and 2015, with either private, Medicaid, or no insurance were eligible for cohort inclusion. Adjusted Cox proportional-hazards regression models were used to generate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between insurance type at diagnosis and overall survival. All models were stratified by stage at diagnosis.

Results:

This analysis included 14,655 cases. Compared with privately insured individuals with the same stage of disease, those with Medicaid had a 43% (HR = 1.43; 95% CI, 1.13–1.32), 22% (HR = 1.22; 95% CI, 1.13–1.32), and 7% higher risk of death for localized, regional, and distant stage, respectively. Uninsured individuals had an 88% (HR = 1.88; 95% CI, 1.65–2.14), 59% (HR = 1.59; 95% CI, 1.41–1.80), and 35% (HR = 1.35; 95% CI, 1.18–1.55) higher risk of death for localized, regional, and distant stage, respectively, compared with privately insured individuals.

Conclusions:

Disparities in survival exist by the type of insurance that individuals with HCC have at the time of diagnosis.

Impact:

These findings support the need for additional research on access to and quality of cancer care for Medicaid and uninsured patients.
Clinical and Economic Impact of Tailoring Screening to Predicted Colorectal Cancer Risk: A Decision Analytic Modeling Study
Authors: Ladabaum Uri , Mannalithara Ajitha , Mitani Aya , Desai Manisha
Published: December 2019

Background:

Global increases in colorectal cancer risk have spurred debate about optimal use of screening resources. We explored the potential clinical and economic impact of colorectal cancer screening tailored to predicted colorectal cancer risk.

Methods:

We compared screening tailored to predicted risk versus uniform screening in a validated decision analytic model, considering the average risk population's actual colorectal cancer risk distribution, and a risk-prediction tool's discriminatory ability and cost. Low, moderate, and high risk tiers were identified as colorectal cancer risk after age 50 years of ≤3%, >3 to <12%, and ≥12%, respectively, based on threshold analyses with willingness-to-pay <$50,000/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Tailored colonoscopy (once at age 60 years for low risk, every 10 years for moderate risk, and every 5 years for high risk) was compared with colonoscopy every 10 years for all. Tailored fecal immunochemical testing (FIT)/colonoscopy (annual FIT for low and moderate risk, colonoscopy every 5 years for high risk) was compared with annual FIT for all.

Results:

Assuming no colorectal cancer risk misclassification or risk-prediction tool costs, tailored screening was preferred over uniform screening. Tailored colonoscopy was minimally less effective than uniform colonoscopy, but saved $90,200–$889,000/QALY; tailored FIT/colonoscopy yielded more QALYs/person than annual FIT at $10,600–$60,000/QALY gained. Relatively modest colorectal cancer risk misclassification rates or risk-prediction tool costs resulted in uniform screening as the preferred approach.

Conclusions:

Current risk-prediction tools may not yet be accurate enough to optimize colorectal cancer screening.

Impact:

Uniform screening is likely to be preferred over tailored screening if a risk-prediction tool is associated with even modest misclassification rates or costs.
A Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab and Vorinostat in Recurrent Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas and Salivary Gland Cancer
Authors: Rodriguez Cristina P. , Wu Qian (Vicky) , Voutsinas Jenna , Fromm Jonathan R. , Jiang Xiuyun , Pillarisetty Venu G. , Lee Sylvia M. , Santana-Davila Rafael , Goulart Bernardo , Baik Christina S. , Chow Laura Q.M. , Eaton Keith , Martins Renato
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

This clinical trial combined pembrolizumab and vorinostat in recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HN), and salivary gland cancer (SGC).

Patients and Methods:

Patients with progressing incurable HN and SGC, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) ≤1, no prior immunotherapy, RECIST1.1 measurable disease, and normal organ function were eligible. Pembrolizumab 200 mg was given intravenous every 21 days, and vorinostat 400 mg given orally 5 days on and 2 days off during each 21-day cycle. Primary endpoints were safety and objective response rates.

Results:

From November 2015 to August 2017, 25 patients with HN and 25 SGC were enrolled. Median age was 61 (range, 33–86) years, 39 (78%) were male, 21 (62%) were never smokers, and 27 (54%) had ECOG 0. In HN, 13 (52%) were p16+ oropharynx. Most common SGC histologies were adenoid cystic 12 (48%), acinic cell 3 (12%), and mucoepidermoid 3 (12%). Adverse events (AEs) in all patients were: 27 (54%) with grade ≥ 1 and 18 (36%) with grade ≥ 3. The most common AEs in all patients were renal insufficiency in seven, (14%), fatigue in six, (12%), and nausea in three (6%). There were three (12%) deaths on study. Responses in HN were complete response (CR) 0, partial response (PR) eight (32%), and stable disease (SD) five (20%). Efficacy in SGCs was CR 0, PR four (16%) in one lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma, two acinic cell, one adenoid cystic, and SD 14 (56%). In the HN group, median follow-up (mFUP) was 12.6 months, median overall survival (mOS) was 12.6 months, and median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 4.5 months. In SGC, mFUP was 13.1 months, mOS was 14.0 months, and mPFS was 6.9 months.

Conclusions:

This combination demonstrated activity in HN, with fewer responses in SGC. Toxicities were higher than reported with pembrolizumab alone.
The Nanocind Signature Is an Independent Prognosticator of Recurrence and Death in Uterine Leiomyosarcomas
Authors: Croce Sabrina , Lesluyes Tom , Valle Carine , M'Hamdi Loubna , Thébault Noémie , Pérot Gaëlle , Stoeckle Eberhard , Noël Jean-Christophe , Fontanges Quitterie , Devouassoux-Shisheboran Mojgan , Querleu Denis , Guyon Frédéric , Floquet Anne , Chakiba Camille , Mayeur Laetitia , Rebier Flora , MacGrogan Gaëtan Marie , Soubeyran Isabelle , Le Guellec Sophie , Chibon Frédéric
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

Uterine leiomyosarcoma, which accounts for 7% of all soft-tissue sarcomas and 1%–3% of all uterine malignancies, is an aggressive tumor responsible for a significant proportion of uterine cancer–related deaths. While Federation Internationale des Gynaecologistes et Obstetristes (FIGO) stage is the most important prognostic factor, metastatic and relapse rates at stage I exceed 50% so it is currently impossible to predict the clinical outcome of stage I leiomyosarcomas. In 2010, our team published a transcriptomic signature composed of 67 genes related to chromosome biogenesis, mitosis control, and chromosome segregation. It has demonstrated its prognostic value in many cancer types and was recently successfully applied to formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sarcomas by NanoCind on NanoString technology, making another step forward toward its use in routine practice.

Experimental Design:

Sixty uterine leiomyosarcomas at any stage, including 40 localized in the uterus (stage I), were analyzed with the NanoCind (CINSARC with NanoString) signature. Its prognostic value was evaluated for overall survival and relapse-free survival and compared in multivariate analysis with other prognostic markers like FIGO staging and genomic index.

Results:

The NanoCind signature was able to split the heterogeneous group of uterine leiomyosarcomas of any stage including stage I into two distinct groups with different relapse-free survival and overall survival. These results were validated on an independent cohort of uterine leiomyosarcomas in The Cancer Genome Atlas consortium.

Conclusions:

The NanoCind signature is a powerful prognosticator that outperforms FIGO staging and the genomic index. The CINSARC signature is platform independent and “ready to use” and should now be used for randomization in future therapeutic trials.
Safety and Effectiveness of a 3-Day Rush Insect Venom Immunotherapy Protocol
Authors: Kranert Paula , Forchhammer Stephan , Volc Sebastian , Stenger Franziska , Schaller Martin , Fischer Jörg
Published: December 2019

Background: Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is an established and effective treatment for patients with Hymenoptera venom allergies. Especially during the build-up of VIT, systemic allergic reactions are a key issue. Objective: To investigate the safety and effectiveness of a 3-day rush insect VIT protocol and a strategy for the management of individuals with VIT-induced anaphylaxis. Methods: In this retrospective monocentric study, 11-year data regarding build-up cycles of VIT were retrieved from institutional records. The following parameters of VIT-induced anaphylaxis were analyzed: frequency, severity, time of occurrence within the build-up cycle, and impact on the success of VIT. The effectiveness of VIT was assessed by the results of sting challenges (SCs) by the culprit insect. Results: In total, 1,317 initial build-up cycles of VIT were evaluated in this study, and the frequency of VIT-induced anaphylaxis was 6.6%. Anaphylaxis occurred most frequently when the daily cumulative venom dose was ≥100 µg. A group (n = 65) of patients with VIT-induced anaphylaxis in this dose range temporarily received a reduced maintenance dose, and without additional co-medications or complications, the target dose was reached after a second build-up in 91% of the cycles. After completing the VIT build-up, SCs were performed in 76.9% of the cohort, and the effectiveness of VIT was confirmed by 98.5% of the tests. Conclusions: In this study, we report a 3-day VIT rush protocol with a reasonable rate of VIT-induced anaphylaxis and excellent effectiveness of VIT.
The Cumulative Exposure to High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Predicts the Risk of Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: Gao Jingli , Wang Aitian , Li Xiaolan , Li Junjuan , Zhao Hualing , Zhang Jianjun , Liang Jingtao , Chen Shuohua , Wu Shouling
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives: This study was to characterize the association of cumulative exposure to increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) with chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Methods: We included 35,194 participants with hs-CRP measured at three examinations in 2006, 2008, 2010. Participants were classiﬁed into nonexposed group (hs-CRP <3.0 mg/L in all 3 examinations), 1-exposed group (hs-CRP ≥3.0 mg/L in 1 of the 3 examinations), 2-exposed group (hs-CRP ≥3.0 mg/L in 2 of the 3 examinations), and 3-exposed group (hs-CRP ≥3.0 mg/L in 3 examinations). Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association of cumulative hs-CRP with incident CKD. CKD includes an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or urinary protein positive. Results: The study showed the risk of CKD as the number of years of exposure to hs-CRP increases. Participants in 3-exposed group had significantly increased CKD risk with hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval, CI) of 1.70 (1.49–1.93), in comparison with 1.47 (1.34–1.62) for participants in the 2-exposed group, and 1.08 (1.00–1.16) for those in the 1-exposed group (p < 0.01); meanwhile, the similar and significant associations were also observed for eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, proteinuria positive, in participants of the 3-exposed group in comparison with the nonexposed group, with respective HRs (95% CI) of 1.27 (1.01–1.58) and 2.27 (1.87–2.76). Conclusions: Cumulative exposure to hs-CRP was associated with a subsequent increased risk of CKD and was of great value to risk prediction.
Chemotherapy Following PD-1 Inhibitor Blockade in Patients with Unresectable Stage III/Stage IV Metastatic Melanoma: A Single Academic Institution Experience
Authors: Karachaliou Georgia Sofia , Ayvali Fatih , Collichio Frances A. , Lee Carrie B. , Ivanova Anastasia , Ollila David W. , Moschos Stergios J.
Published: December 2019

Retrospective case studies in various cancers have shown clinical benefit from chemotherapy following PD-1 inhibitor progression. We asked whether we see a similar clinical benefit with chemotherapy following PD-1 inhibitor progression in metastatic melanoma. We performed a retrospective study in patients with metastatic melanoma, who had received PD-1 inhibitor-based treatments, subsequently progressed, and eventually received chemotherapy. We identified 25 patients (median age 58 years; range 31–77 years; 13 females). Most patients had cutaneous melanoma (72%), were BRAFV600E-negative (75%), and received single-agent temozolomide (84%). At a median follow-up of 21.0 months (range: 4.1–154.2 months), 2 patients had durable response to chemotherapy (progression-free survival is 31.9+ and 21.6+ months, respectively), and 1 patient had a partial, short-term response. We conclude that in this poor prognosis group administration of chemotherapy has a 12% response rate that can be durable. Overall, the clinical benefit is not inferior to that of PD-1 inhibitor-based treatments.
Campo e cidade na América Latina
Authors: Bitelli Fábio Molinari ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Programa de Pós-Graduação Integração da América Latina
Published: December 2019

O campo e a cidade na América Latina apresentam enorme diversidade social, cultural, política, econômica e ambiental, não só por conta das diferenças oriundas do processo dominador da colonização, tanto portuguesa quanto espanhola, e das miscigenações permanentes, cujos resultados culturais são evidentes, mas também por conta da riqueza ambiental, cuja diversidade estabelece bases importantes para a produção social e econômica. Na certeza de muitos estudos estarem sendo desenvolvidos em distintas áreas do conhecimento, esta coletânea apresenta um pouco das recentes pesquisas elaboradas em algumas universidades brasileiras, sobretudo a partir do olhar da Geografia. Esperamos, assim, contribuir com os estudos e o florescimento de novas leituras e análises sobre o campo e a cidade na América Latina, uma das relações essenciais para a compreensão de nosso continente.
Influência da corrupção agregada no desenvolvimento social e na geração de riqueza dos países do Mercosul
Authors: Silva Aline Moura Costa da , Santos Patricia Roberta Pereira , Ribeiro Cíntia de Melo de Albuquerque
Published: December 2019

A corrupção é uma temática em ascensão nos governos mundiais, sendo um dos fatores associados à governança pública e ao desenvolvimento socioeconômico. Tendo em vista o cenário mundial, a presente pesquisa tem por finalidade investigar como a corrupção agregada influencia os indicadores socioeconômicos – Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) e Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano (IDH) – dos países do Mercosul. Para tanto, foram realizados testes de regressão em painel compreendendo uma análise temporal de 1996 a 2016. Com o desenvolvimento do estudo foi possível estimar uma relação significativa estatisticamente entre a Qualidade Regulatória e o IDH, já em relação ao PIB, o Controle de Corrupção, Estabilidade Política, Estado de Direito e Voz e Responsabilidade foram os indicadores que o influenciaram de forma positiva. As evidências indicam, assim, que a capacidade explicativa do modelo é melhor para o PIB do que para o IDH.
Should we flip the script?
Authors: Pashkova-Balkenhol Tatiana , Lenker Mark , Cox Emily , Kocevar-Weidinger Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

This mixed method systematic review considers recent literature on the information literacy (IL) skills of first-year undergraduate students. The review uncovers the following themes: faculty and librarians perceive first-year students as lacking IL skills; students have varying perceptions of their IL skills; assessment studies yield conflicting findings on first-year students' IL; communication between high school and college librarians is challenging; and some IL researchers emphasise and leverage first-year students' prior knowledge and experience in IL instruction. These themes emerge from extensive searches in four research databases for scholarly and professional articles written in English within the past ten years. With the exception of a few articles, studies reviewed consistently express their findings in terms of students’ gaps or deficits. We question whether this is the most productive basis for developing effective IL programs. Instead, we call for further investigation of students’ existing knowledge and skills as a basis for implementing constructivist and strengths-based pedagogies.
How individual consultations with a librarian can support systematic reviews in the social sciences
Authors: Dalton Michelle
Published: December 2019

The use of systematic review as a research method has become increasingly prevalent in the social and human sciences. However, the role of the librarian in delivering library and information skills (LIS) support in this area remains relatively undocumented, in contrast with the health sciences where systematic review support is often highly visible and embedded. This exploratory study uses qualitative survey data collected from researchers who attended an individual consultation with a librarian and aims to identify the potential role and impact that LIS support can have. The results indicate that both the skills and confidence of researchers increased as a result of the interaction, and that the personalised nature of the consultation provided additional value. However, awareness of the service was relatively low, indicating the need for additional marketing and promotion, as well as increased liaison and engagement with academic and research staff. These findings provide a foundation for further research into the design and delivery of LIS support to those undertaking systematic reviews in the social sciences.
WikiLiteracy
Authors: Ball Caroline
Published: December 2019

In January 2019 the University of Derby delivered its first module entirely dedicated to and structured around editing and writing articles for Wikipedia. The course focused on using Wikipedia as a means to improve students’ skills in writing for public consumption, in addition to enhancing their digital and collaborative skills. Students contributed to 118 articles across a range of topics, which were viewed over 11.2 million times, providing them with a public platform no university assignment could match, and introduced them to the challenges of interaction and engagement in a global editing community. Students’ confidence in their digital capabilities was assessed at the start and end of the module and showed a clear increase in confidence across all categories.
First-generation students’ information literacy in everyday contexts
Authors: Ilett Darren
Published: December 2019

Historically, much of the Library and Information Science (LIS) literature on first-generation students (FGS) framed them using deficit thinking, emphasising what they lacked to be successful in higher education. In contrast, recent scholarship has turned to asset-based pedagogies, shifting the focus onto the strengths that FGS bring to college. Further, LIS research on FGS has examined how students engage with information solely in academic contexts, such as completing research papers or navigating higher education procedures. The current study contributes to the discussion of asset-based pedagogies by using a funds of knowledge approach to explore the ways in which FGS at a mid-sized university in the US engage with information, and it expands the scope of inquiry to several everyday contexts, including students’ households, workplaces, and communities. The findings reveal a variety of funds of knowledge concerning participants’ information literacy (IL) and lay the foundation for IL instruction that meets FGS where they are, thus serving them more equitably.
Be Media Smart
Authors: Russell Philip
Published: December 2019

‘Be Media Smart’ is an Irish public awareness campaign calling on people of all ages to ‘Be Media Smart’ and ‘Stop, Think, and Check’ that information they see, read or hear across any media platform is accurate and reliable. This national media literacy campaign was aimed at enhancing people’s understanding of, and engagement with, media, while also empowering them with the skills to evaluate content across all platforms.
Collastoma esotericum (Neodalyellida: Umagillidae), a new species of sipunculan-inhabiting rhabdocoel from Queensland, Australia
Authors: HUSTON DANIEL C.
Published: December 2019

The Umagillidae Wahl, represent a group of endosymbiotic Platyhelminthes which inhabit two disparate invertebrate host groups, the echinoderms and sipunculans. Sipunculan-inhabiting umagillids are morphologically distinct from those inhabiting echinoderms and have traditionally been placed in a distinct genus and subfamily, Collastoma Dörler, and the Collastominae Wahl, respectively. Although molecular data are available for umagillid species inhabiting echinoids and holothurians, species inhabiting sipunculans have yet to be evaluated with molecular data. Collastoma esotericum n. sp. from the sipunculan Phascolosoma scolops (Selenka & de Man) collected in Moreton Bay, southeast Queensland, Australia, is described. Phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rRNA gene sequences placed C. esotericum in a clade with species of the Umagillidae and the Provorticinae Luther, with strong support. However, within this clade the relationship of C. esotericum to the Umagillidae and Provorticinae was not resolved.
Anarsioses, a new generic name for Phyllonorycter aberrans (Braun) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae)
Authors: DAVIS DONALD R.
Published: December 2019

Annette Braun (1930) described the leafmining moth Phyllonorycter aberrans in the genus Lithocolletis Hübner, 1825. The species was later transferred to Phyllonorycter by Davis (1983). Recent morphological studies on North American Gracillariidae by the author have shown that P. aberrans requires a new generic placement. Generic distinction was also recognized by the molecular studies of Kawahara et al. (2017: fig. 2). Anarsioses is very similar to Phyllonorycter in general head morphology and wing venation, but differs in the unusual asymmetry of the male genitalia and in larval biology.
A new synonym and distribution record in the genus Ceiupaba Martins & Galileo, 1998 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Desmiphorini)
Authors: BEZARK LARRY G. , DE L. NASCIMENTO FRANCISCO E.
Published: December 2019

Mimasyngenes piauiensis Galileo, Martins & Nascimento 2014, is proposed as a synonym of Ceiupaba lineata Martins & Galileo, 1998, and the distribution is expanded to include Paraguay. The sex of the holotype of M. piauiensis is corrected to female.
Pretreatment of Bamboo by Ammonium Sulfite for Efficient Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Zhang Liyue , Li Zhiqiang
Published: December 2019

In order to find out the potential effect of ammonium sulfite pretreatment on bamboo for efficient enzymatic saccharification, various ammonium sulfite loadings were conducted to pretreat bamboo at 180 °C for 1–8 h with the solid–liquid ratio of 1:6, respectively. The
results verified that ammonium sulfite pretreatment could effectively disrupt the recalcitrance of bamboo and create highly enzymatic hydrolysis sugar yield for further utilization. The contents of lignin in the substrates decreased significantly (from 22.94% to 1.21%) after pretreated and
the higher lignin removal with higher chemical loading and longer reaction time during pretreatment. The cellulose-to-glucose conversion yield of pretreated bamboo substrates could achieve almost 100% within 48 h by enzymes loading of 15 FPU of cellulase and 30 IU of β-glucosidase
per gram glucan. Therefore, ammonium sulfite pretreatment is argued to be a potential alternative technology for pretreatment of bamboo.
Why BRICS Is No Threat to the Post-war Liberal World Order
Authors: Nuruzzaman Mohammed
Published: December 2019

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) has emerged as a powerful economic group in the global economy and politics, apparently posing threats to the survival of the post-war liberal world order. Its member states (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are seeking to democratize the post-war liberal world order to increase their shares of voting power in the decision-making processes of the Bretton Woods institutions and thus curb the USA’s dominance over global economic and financial architecture and eventually overhaul the US-led liberal world order. Contrary to the fear of many Western policymakers and analysts, this article contends that BRICS poses no credible threats to the US-led post-war order. The BRICS group’s potential to challenge or threaten the US-led world order is seriously undermined by the internal make-up of the group, its political and ideological heterogeneity, its incapacity to develop a collective world order vision salable to the wider international community and the lack of strong convergence in foreign policy goals and preferences.
Prediction of hyperelastic material sealing pressure using experimental and numerical analyses
Authors: Sukumar T , Ramesh Bapu BR , Durga Prasad B
Published: December 2019

In commercial vehicle air braking system, leakage is one of the major problems and will affect the performance of the vehicle braking in terms of brake pedal travel and stopping distance. If there is any leakage in the brake system, the vehicle stopping distance will not meet the safety regulations. One of the main reasons for braking system leakage is ineffective sealing mechanism. The majority of sealing elements used in the air brake system are O-rings, lip seals, and gaskets. This article presents an experimental procedure for measuring the sealing pressure between an O-Ring and its mating parts. The contact pressure measurement was performed in a static condition by means of an experimental test rig using Fuji film. For the sealing pressure study, a test rig was properly designed to replicate the actual operating conditions. Contact pressure was evaluated by means of Fuji film interposed between the O-ring and its mating parts. The sealing pressure tests were carried out for different clamping load conditions. The experimental results were compared with the numerical result using the finite-element analysis (FEA). A good correlation was found between the experimental and the numerical results. The outcome from the experimental results will be useful for finalizing the hyperelastic material models, which are input to the FEA for future reference.
Karyon: A scalable and easy to integrate ontology summarisation framework
Authors: Ozacar Tugba , Ozturk Ovunc
Published: December 2019

In the current Semantic Web Community, as the size and complexity of ontologies increase, ontology summarisation is becoming more important. There are many studies in the literature that use different approaches and metrics. However, many of these studies are not effective in terms of performance or have integration issues with current technologies. In this study, the popular ontology summarisation metrics are examined focusing on their performance in terms of time, and a number of metrics have been selected accordingly. To increase the accuracy of selections made with chosen metrics, we propose a novel metric: ‘name inclusion’. This metric promotes a concept if its name is subsumed by the name of another concept. As the existing summarisation applications have integration issues, we have implemented our summarisation framework to integrate easily with the latest web technologies. Therefore, the algorithm is implemented using Rust language, which performs well and easily integrates with other languages.
Using microdata for international e-Government data exchange: The case of social security domain
Authors: Delgado Francisco , Hilera José R , Ruggia Raul , Otón Salvador , Amado-Salvatierra Héctor R
Published: December 2019

Semantic interoperability issues of international e-Government data exchanges have not been solved up until now. In the case of social security institutions, the data exchange operations have some particularities that make that the non-ambiguous definition of core concepts used in the institutions has a key impact on the success and quality of system interconnections. In this article, we present the result of a research to implement a new metadata specification based in Dublin Core elements for international social security exchanges, named Exchange Social Security Information Metadata (ESSIM). This proposal is based in a semantic approach using Linked Data for Interoperability, with technologies, such as RDF(S), SPARQL, Microdata and JSON-LD, in order to ensure interoperability between social security institutions from different countries. This will help to strengthen the protection of the social security rights of mobile workers by automating the application of international agreements on social security and to improve cross border communication between social security institutions of different countries. For the near future, the goal is to include this specification as part of information and communication technology Guidelines under development by International Social Security Association with the participation of authors of this article. This will facilitate a future adoption of the specification as an international standard.
Cytotoxicity of Ear Drop Excipients in Human and Mouse Tympanic Membrane Fibroblasts
Authors: Dirain Carolyn O. , Karnani David N. , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Commercial ear drops contain ingredients reported to be inactive. We sought to evaluate such excipients for possible cytotoxicity on human and mouse tympanic membrane (TM) fibroblasts.

Study Design

Prospective, in vitro.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Subjects and Methods

Mouse and human TM fibroblasts were treated with 1:10 dilutions of benzalkonium chloride (BKC) 0.0025%, 0.006%, or 0.01%; benzyl alcohol 0.9%; polysorbate 80 (PSB) 2.5%; glycerin 2.4%; povidone 0.2%; or water (control), twice within 24 hours or 4 times within 48 hours, for 2 hours each time. Cells were placed back in growth media after the treatments. Cells were observed with phase‐contrast microscopy until the cytotoxicity assay was performed.

Results

Mouse fibroblasts had lower survival in only the PSB‐treated cells compared to the control (P <. 0001) after 24 hours. After 48 hours, PSB killed nearly all mouse fibroblasts (P <. 0001). BKC decreased fibroblast survival in a dose‐dependent manner (P <. 001). In human TM fibroblasts, all excipients except povidone and benzyl alcohol after 24 hours and povidone after 48 hours reduced cell survival compared to control (P =. 012 to P <. 0001). The cytotoxicity of BKC in human TM fibroblasts was also dose dependent (<.0001). PSB was less cytotoxic to human fibroblasts. Phase‐contrast images mirrored the cytotoxicity findings.

Conclusion

Polysorbate 80 and benzalkonium chloride, at concentrations found in commercial ear drops, may be cytotoxic to human and mouse TM fibroblasts. “Inactive” ingredients may need to be considered when evaluating clinical outcomes with commercial ear drops.
The µMCTQ: An Ultra-Short Version of the Munich ChronoType Questionnaire
Authors: Ghotbi Neda , Pilz Luísa K. , Winnebeck Eva C. , Vetter Céline , Zerbini Giulia , Lenssen David , Frighetto Giovanni , Salamanca Marco , Costa Rodolfo , Montagnese Sara , Roenneberg Till
Published: December 2019

Individuals vary in how their circadian system synchronizes with the cyclic environment (zeitgeber). Assessing these differences in “phase of entrainment”—often referred to as chronotype—is an important procedure in laboratory experiments and epidemiological studies but is also increasingly applied in circadian medicine, both in diagnosis and therapy. While biochemical measurements (e.g., dim-light melatonin onset [DLMO]) of internal time are still the gold standard, they are laborious, expensive, and mostly rely on special conditions (e.g., dim light). Chronotype estimation in the form of questionnaires is useful in approximating the timing of an individual’s circadian clock. They are simple, inexpensive, and location independent (e.g., administrable on- and offline) and can therefore be easily administered to many individuals. The Munich ChronoType Questionnaire (MCTQ) is an established instrument to assess chronotype by asking subjects about their sleep-wake-behavior. Here we present a shortened version of the MCTQ, the µMCTQ, for use in situations in which instrument length is critical, such as in large cohort studies. The µMCTQ contains only the core chronotype module of the standard MCTQ (stdMCTQ), which was shortened and adapted from 17 to 6 essential questions, allowing for a quick assessment of chronotype and other related parameters such as social jetlag and sleep duration. µMCTQ results correspond well to the ones collected by the stdMCTQ and are externally validated by actimetry and DLMO, assessed at home (no measure of compliance). Sleep onset, midpoint of sleep, and the µMCTQ-derived marker of chronotype showed slight deviations toward earlier times in the µMCTQ when compared with the stdMCTQ (<35 min). The µMCTQ assessment of chronotype showed good test-retest reliability and correlated significantly with phase markers from actimetry and melatonin (DLMO), especially with measurements taken on work-free days. Because of its brevity, the µMCTQ represents an ideal tool to estimate individual internal time in time-critical contexts, from large cohort studies to individualized medicine.
Changes in HIV antiretroviral prescribing practices in the United States
Authors: Vu Quan M , Shouse R Luke , Brady Kathleen , Brooks John T , Weiser John
Published: December 2019

We analyzed nationally representative medical record data from the Medical Monitoring Project (MMP) to estimate prevalence of antiretroviral (ARV) agents prescribed for US adults with diagnosed HIV and to examine recent changes in prescribing practices. The MMP uses a multi-stage sample survey methodology to produce nationally representative annual estimates of characteristics of adults with diagnosed HIV in the US and Puerto Rico. We compared weighted prevalence of most recent ARV prescriptions from 3368 adults interviewed during June 2015–May 2016 and from 3717 adults interviewed during June 2016–May 2017. We also compared weighted prevalence of the first ARV prescriptions among those who initiated ART during these time periods. Among patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), prescription of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) as part of initial regimen decreased across the time periods from 38.5% to 26.6% ( P = 0.01). Prescription of protease inhibitors (PI) did not change (17.0% and 14.5%). Prescription of integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) increased (54.7 to 70.2%, P = 0.004) due mostly to increased prescription of dolutegravir (13.9% to 32.5%). Among all patients, prescription of NNRTIs remained stable across (44.5% and 43.2%). Prescriptions of PIs decreased significantly, from 36.5% to 32.4% ( P = 0.006), as did prescription of individual PIs except darunavir. In contrast, prescription of INSTIs increased from 43.4% to 50.7% ( P < 0.001), due mostly to increased prescription of dolutegravir and elvitegravir. ART prescribing practices changed rapidly across the examined time periods. Following guidelines, INSTI prescription increased significantly among all U.S adults with diagnosed HIV, including adults initiating ART.
Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema in Hispanic Women: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Acebedo Juanita C. , Haas Barbara K. , Hermanns Melinda
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL), a long-term side effect of treatment, can occur at any point in time. With the extensive physical and psychological effects of BCRL, few studies have focused on the lived experience. The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experience of Hispanic women dealing with BCRL, particularly women of Mexican descent or origin. Method: Using interpretive phenomenology, 13 Hispanic women with BCRL, 42 to 80 years, were individually interviewed. Data analysis was conducted using interpretive reading of field notes, journal entries, and transcribed interviews. Results: Three central themes emerged from the findings, “sense of loss,” “resignation to the new self,” and “not knowing.” Further subthemes highlight the physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of living with BCRL. Discussion: Cultural awareness of the impact BCRL has on activities of daily living of Hispanic women should be part of a holistic plan of nursing care when caring for this population.
Comparative Pharmacological Profiles of Various Bovine, Ovine, and Porcine Heparins
Authors: Kouta Ahmed , Jeske Walter , Hoppensteadt Debra , Iqbal Omer , Yao Yiming , Fareed Jawed
Published: December 2019

Unfractionated heparin is the first anticoagulant drug and has been successfully used clinically for over 80 years. Heparin and its analogues are used during surgery and dialysis and are often used to coat indwelling catheters and other devices where the vascular system is exposed. Most of the heparins used clinically are derived from porcine intestinal mucosa. However, heparins have also been manufactured from tissues of other mammalian species such as cows and sheep. Recently there have been attempts to generate bioengineered heparin in order to overcome contamination and antigenicity problems. Currently there are some concerns about the shortage of the porcine heparins as they are widely used in the manufacturing of the low-molecular-weight heparins. Moreover, due to cultural and religious reasons in some countries, alternative sources of heparins are needed. The Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies have considered alternative sourcing of heparin for potential substitution of porcine heparin and are currently reviewing this matter. Numerous studies are ongoing to understand the structure-activity relationships of these various heparins. In this article, heparins from different animal sources were studied to determine the extent of biosimilarity between them. For these investigations, 10 batches each of bovine mucosal heparin (BMH), ovine mucosal heparin (OMH), and porcine mucosal heparin (PMH) were studied. These studies have demonstrated that OMH and PMH have comparable anticoagulant and antiproteases activities. However, BMH exhibited somewhat a lower potency compared to OMH and PMH in functional assays.
“I would never wear those old clodhoppers!”: Age differences and used clothing consumption in the Czech Republic
Authors: Rulikova Marketa
Published: December 2019

The article explores secondhand clothing dynamics in the Czech Republic as evidence of the shifting material culture and moral economy in this post-socialist country. Ethnographical investigation indicates that the practices and meanings surrounding the Czech market in used clothing are quite distinct from what has been observed elsewhere in the world of reused clothes. The case study notes a significant contradiction between widespread participation in the shopping for and wearing of secondhand clothing, and concurrent concealment of such practice among Czechs. This seeming contradiction can be largely attributed to the attraction for inexpensive branded clothes, which helps signal an individual’s well-being and search for respect in a newly competitive market society, and the simultaneous association of reuse with the backwardness and consumer poverty associated with the socialist era. The contrast in values and norms surrounding the acceptability of used garment is especially pronounced in different generations. It is argued here that membership in generations should be considered a more significant variable than class or other social attributes in dissecting social differences in transitioning societies.
Still Here: Miscarriage and the Ontology of the Silent Cradle
Authors: Engel Joyce
Published: December 2019

This hermeneutic phenomenology explicates the experience of miscarriage through prose and the poetry that emerged from research conversations with nine women. The Baby Has a Name articulates the physicality and relational presence of the fetus and Painful Reminders the pain as the womb turns inside out. What Did I Do expresses the struggle to explain what is often unexplainable and Claiming the Loss the difficult acknowledgment of loss marked by inherent ambiguity and social asphyxiation. Others who have miscarried (The Invisible Network) offer comfort but the relationship with their baby can only be fully carried by these women (Still Here).
Earlier Is Not Always Better: Outcomes When Epilepsy Occurs in Early Life Versus Adolescence
Authors: Nickels Katherine
Published: December 2019

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From Point A to Point B, and What it Means for Epilepsy
Authors: Krook-Magnuson Esther
Published: December 2019

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Test and numerical investigations on the spatial mechanics characteristics of extra-wide concrete self-anchored suspension bridge during construction
Authors: Zhou Guangpan , Li Aiqun , Li Jianhui , Duan Maojun , Xia Zhiyuan , Zhu Li , Spencer Billie F , Wang Bin
Published: December 2019

This work is aimed at studying the mechanics characteristics of the self-anchored suspension bridge with extra-wide concrete girder during girder erection and system transformation. First, the determination and implementation processes of reasonable completion state were introduced briefly, taking the Hunan Road Bridge as the background project, which is the widest concrete self-anchored suspension bridge in China currently. Then, the ANSYS beam-type finite element model and field monitoring data were integrated to investigate the cable system evolutions during system transformation. Finally, the global refined finite element model was established using solid element to consider the shear lag effects in extra-wide girder. The measured data show that the cable displacements in tensioned domains were characterized by weak coherence and contraflexure characteristics. The longitudinal and transverse stresses of extra-wide girder distributed unevenly along transverse direction. The maximum shear lag coefficients of girder at completion state reached to 1.3. Moreover, small transverse compressive stress, or even the transverse tensile stress reaching to 1.80 MPa, appeared in the top plate segments. The measures including the arrangement optimization of transverse prestressed tendons and monitoring point redistribution were given. The research can provide references for the structural designing and safety control of the similar bridges.
Evaluation of driver stress level with survey, galvanic skin response sensor data, and force-sensing resistor data
Authors: Dogan Daghan , Bogosyan Seta , Acarman Tankut
Published: December 2019

Thousands of lives are lost in traffic accidents every year, and most traffic accidents are caused by driver errors. Causes and impairments such as fatigue, inattentiveness, alcohol usage, stress, and drugs are the main factors of these accidents. When a driver is subject to changing and complicated driving tasks in traffic, he or she should be able to assure driving authority to prevent potential hazards and accidents. In this context, the purpose of this study is to determine the stress level of the driver when driving in urban traffic in such situations requiring delegation of driving authority. Thus, the work combines stress questionnaire and galvanic skin response sensor to validate results and fuses with a force-sensing resistor. In this study, a prototype electric vehicle is equipped with sensors providing various drivers’ data including the responses of a force-sensing resistor sensor while galvanic skin is being collected on a specified route. At the end of the trip, the stress level of the drivers is determined by the collected data. Results indicate that the galvanic skin sensor stress results are consistent with the results of the survey with an average accuracy of 87.5%. The force-sensing resistor sensor is only used to determine gender stress. And the force-sensing resistor sensor gender-stress results are consistent with results of the survey with an accuracy of 100%. These results are used to validate the results of post-driving stress survey evaluated by SPSS 23.0 windows statistics software. Data analysis is particularly focused on demographic properties of participators, factor analysis, reliability tests, correlation, T-test, and one-way analysis of variance.
Comparing the Temperature Effect of Dedicated Minimally Invasive Motor System to the Discontinuous Use of Rotatory Burrs in the Correction of Hallux Valgus
Authors: Robinson Dror , Heller Eyal , Yassin Mustafa
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to compare 2 motor systems for percutaneous osteotomy. The study consisted of 2 stages. In the first stage, bone temperatures during osteotomy using burrs or saw was measured using a thermal camera. In the second stage, the tissue and burr temperature elevation during surgery in 80 consecutive patients (96 feet) with hallux valgus undergoing distal first metatarsal and phalangeal osteotomies (hallux and in 61/96 feet lesser digits) were measured. The burr osteotomy procedure included the use of irrigated 2- or 4.1 mm rotary wedge burrs in discontinuous cutting bursts of less than 20 seconds. Tissue surface temperature was measured with a thermal camera. The temperature generated during the procedure was found to be significantly associated with the burr diameter used but was not affected by the type of motor. At the 6-week visit, thickness of the soft tissues over the first metatarsal head was similar in both groups. Temperature control using a noninvasive thermal camera is recommended to prevent tissue damage associated with heat generated during the use of rotary burrs. A dedicated low-speed high-torque system does not seem to be necessary and standard orthopaedic equipment can be used.

Levels of Evidence: Level II: Comparative prospectively collected series