bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of brain protection strategies on mortality and stroke in patients undergoing aortic arch repair with hypothermic circulatory arrest: evidence from the Canadian Thoracic Aortic Collaborative
Authors: Hage Ali , Stevens Louis-Mathieu , Ouzounian Maral , Chung Jennifer , El-Hamamsy Ismail , Chauvette Vincent , Dagenais Francois , Cartier Andreanne , Peterson Mark D , Boodhwani Munir , Guo Ming , Bozinovski John , Moon Michael C , White Abigail , Kumar Kanwal , Lodewyks Carly , Bittira Bindu , Payne Darrin , Chu Michael W A
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of various brain perfusion techniques and nadir temperature cooling strategies on outcomes after aortic arch repair in a contemporary, multicentre cohort.

METHODS

A total of 2520 patients underwent aortic arch repair with hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) between 2002 and 2018 in 11 centres of the Canadian Thoracic Aortic Collaborative. Primary outcomes included mortality; stroke; a composite of mortality or stroke; and a Society of Thoracic Surgeons-defined composite (STS-COMP) end point for mortality or major morbidity including stroke, reoperation, renal failure, prolonged ventilation and deep sternal wound infection. Multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching were performed for cerebral perfusion and nadir temperature practices.

RESULTS

Antegrade cerebral perfusion was found on multivariable analysis to be protective against mortality [odds ratio (OR) 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.86; P = 0.005], stroke (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.37–0.81; P = 0.006), composite of mortality or stroke (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.45–0.72; P = 0.0001) and STS-COMP (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.41–0.67; P < 0.0001), as compared to HCA alone. Retrograde cerebral perfusion yielded similar outcomes as compared to antegrade cerebral perfusion. When compared to HCA with nadir temperature <24°C, a propensity score analysis of 647 matched pairs identified nadir temperature ≥24°C as predictor of lower mortality (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.40–0.98; P = 0.04), stroke (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.31–0.84; P = 0.008), composite of mortality or stroke (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43–0.89; P = 0.01) and STS-COMP (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.49–0.85; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Antegrade cerebral perfusion and nadir temperature ≥24°C during HCA for aortic arch repair are predictors of improved survival and neurological outcomes.
Multifaceted Hi-C benchmarking: what makes a difference in chromosome-scale genome scaffolding?
Authors: Kadota Mitsutaka , Nishimura Osamu , Miura Hisashi , Tanaka Kaori , Hiratani Ichiro , Kuraku Shigehiro
Published: January 2020

Background

Hi-C is derived from chromosome conformation capture (3C) and targets chromatin contacts on a genomic scale. This method has also been used frequently in scaffolding nucleotide sequences obtained by de novo genome sequencing and assembly, in which the number of resultant sequences rarely converges to the chromosome number. Despite its prevalent use, the sample preparation methods for Hi-C have not been intensively discussed, especially from the standpoint of genome scaffolding.

Results

To gain insight into the best practice of Hi-C scaffolding, we performed a multifaceted methodological comparison using vertebrate samples and optimized various factors during sample preparation, sequencing, and computation. As a result, we identified several key factors that helped improve Hi-C scaffolding, including the choice and preparation of tissues, library preparation conditions, the choice of restriction enzyme(s), and the choice of scaffolding program and its usage.

Conclusions

This study provides the first comparison of multiple sample preparation kits/protocols and computational programs for Hi-C scaffolding by an academic third party. We introduce a customized protocol designated “inexpensive and controllable Hi-C (iconHi-C) protocol,” which incorporates the optimal conditions identified in this study, and demonstrate this technique on chromosome-scale genome sequences of the Chinese softshell turtle Pelodiscus sinensis.
Pseudo-linear-array analysis of passive surface waves based on beamforming
Authors: Liu Ya , Xia Jianghai , Cheng Feng , Xi Chaoqiang , Shen Chao , Zhou Changjiang
Published: January 2020

Linear arrays are usually deployed for passive surface-wave investigations because of their high efficiency and convenience. In populated urban areas, it is almost impossible to set up a 2-D array in terms of the restriction from the existing infrastructures. The limited azimuthal coverage, however, lacks the ability to attenuate velocity overestimation caused by directional noise sources. We came up with a novel idea to compensate the azimuthal coverage by adding two more offline receivers to a conventional linear array, which is called pseudo-linear-array analysis of passive surface waves (PLAS). We used a beamforming algorithm to capture noise sources distribution and extract accurate dispersion curves. We used array response function to explain the superiority of the pseudo-linear array over the linear array and present the basic workflow of PLAS. Synthetic tests and field examples demonstrated the feasibility of PLAS to measure unbiased dispersion image. Comparison with mostly used passive surface wave methods (refraction microtremor, multichannel analysis of passive surface waves, spatial autocorrelation method, frequency–wavenumber analysis) suggested that PLAS can serve as an alternative passive surface wave method, especially in urban areas with restricted land accessibility and short-time acquisition demands.
5. Separation and Nullity
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter considers some parts of the law and procedure following the breakdown of a relationship. It discusses the remedy of separation as an alternative to divorce proceedings. It explains the term ‘separation’ and the two main statutes relating to these areas. The chapter also discusses the bars to petition and also examines nullity as a remedy, including void and voidable marriages and the different grounds for finding a marriage void or voidable. It looks at nullity and civil partnerships, as well as a remedy for escaping forced marriages and some statistics on forced marriages. Case law is also used.
6. Divorce
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the grounds for divorce under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973. These include adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, two years’ separation plus consent, and five years’ separation. It also outlines the first year bar on divorce and the ground for divorce being that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. The chapter explores each of the five possible facts that prove the ground for divorce and explains the relevance of continued cohabitation between the parties in relation to unreasonable behaviour and adultery. It also discusses continuous separation. Some discussion of the proposals for no-fault divorce is also included in this chapter.
7. Defences to Divorce and Dissolution
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the limited defences that are available in divorce proceedings. It explains that defended divorces or dissolutions of civil partnerships are not very common in practice and that there are limited ‘defences’ available, which may only lead to a delay in proceedings rather that stopping proceedings. It covers petitions after five years’ separation; Section 5 Matrimonial Causes Act 1973; protection in two-year separation cases; Section 10 Matrimonial Causes Act 1973; and section 10A Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, which was passed in the wake of a number of cases of women being refused a religious divorce by their spouse.
10. Civil Partnership Act 2004
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the scope of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (CPA 2004) which came into force on 5 December 2005 and the formation of civil partnerships. It outlines civil partnership and same-sex marriage under The Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act 2013. It also explains the differences between civil partnership and marriage. The CPA 2004 enables same-sex couples to form legally recognized civil partnerships. Once a partnership has been formed, civil partners assume many legal rights and responsibilities for each other, third parties, and the State. It does explain that adultery, however, is not a fact to establish the ground for dissolution of a civil partnership as it is in marriage.
11. Financial Orders Following Divorce or Dissolution
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the factors that a court will take into account when deciding on the division of money and property following a divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership. It introduces the main concepts in proceedings for financial orders under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, which includes all of the circumstances of the case, children, and the factors for orders involving children. It examines the factors considered by the court when deciding on financial orders and these are explained in detail. It looks at the clean break principle, pensions, and the principal case-law arising from proceedings for financial orders.
16. Protecting Assets and the Family Home in Financial Order Proceedings
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses whether a client can protect assets in financial order proceedings, the provisions of s37 Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, and the availability of ‘home rights’ under the Family Law Act 1996. Section 37 MCA 1973 assists the parties and the courts in preventing the disposition of any assets by either party to the proceedings. An order can be made preventing a party from making a disposition with the intention of defeating the claim for financial relief or an order reviewing a disposition that has already been made. The procedure for this is discussed, along with the fact that the family home is generally the largest asset in financial proceedings.
21. Welfare Benefits
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the main types of welfare benefits that are available to family law clients. It explains the importance of welfare benefits in relation to areas of family law, and that a family lawyer must have a working knowledge of these areas in particular with regards to financial remedy. The eligibility of benefits and what the client will receive is discussed. The chapter explains that the main benefit which is now in place is universal credit, but also mentions the ‘legacy benefits’, including income support, jobseeker’s allowance, tax credits, employment and support allowance, housing benefit, council tax reduction, and child benefit.
33. Protection under the Family Law Act 1996: Non-Molestation Orders
Authors: Sendall Jane , Hodgson Roiya
Published: January 2020

This chapter discusses the following: the law regarding domestic abuse; practical issues arising from acting for clients facing domestic abuse; and the availability of remedies under the Family Law Act 1996. It also explains when funding may be available under legal aid for orders under the Family Law Act 1996. The concept of ‘associated persons’ is explained and the list of these is provided. Non-molestation orders under the Family Law Act 1996 are explained, as well as the test for a nonmolestation order, evidence, applications by children, and duration of an order. The remedies for clients escaping a forced marriage and criminal law remedies are discussed.
Systemic administration of AAV-Slc25a46 mitigates mitochondrial neuropathy in Slc25a46−/− mice
Authors: Yang Li , Slone Jesse , Li Zhuo , Lou Xiaoting , Hu Yueh-Chiang , Queme Luis F , Jankowski Michael P , Huang Taosheng
Published: January 2020

Mitochondrial disorders are the result of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA mutations that affect multiple organs, with the central and peripheral nervous system often affected. Currently, there is no cure for mitochondrial disorders. Currently, gene therapy offers a novel approach for treating monogenetic disorders, including nuclear genes associated with mitochondrial disorders. We utilized a mouse model carrying a knockout of the mitochondrial fusion–fission-related gene solute carrier family 25 member 46 (Slc25a46) and treated them with neurotrophic AAV–PHP.B vector carrying the mouse Slc25a46 coding sequence. Thereafter, we used immunofluorescence staining and western blot to test the transduction efficiency of this vector. Toluidine blue staining and electronic microscopy were utilized to assess the morphology of optic and sciatic nerves following treatment, and the morphology and respiratory chain activity of mitochondria within these tissues were determined as well. The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector effectively transduced in the cerebrum, cerebellum, heart, liver and sciatic nerves. AAV–Slc25a46 treatment was able to rescue the premature death in the mutant mice (Slc25a46−/−). The treatment-improved electronic conductivity of the peripheral nerves increased mobility and restored mitochondrial complex activities. Most notably, mitochondrial morphology inside the tissues of both the central and peripheral nervous systems was normalized, and the neurodegeneration, chronic neuroinflammation and loss of Purkinje cell dendrites observed within the mutant mice were alleviated. Overall, our study shows that AAV–PHP.B’s neurotrophic properties are plausible for treating conditions where the central nervous system is affected, such as many mitochondrial diseases, and that AAV–Slc25a46 could be a novel approach for treating SLC25A46-related mitochondrial disorders.
A one-step linear inversion to recover current density pseudo-section from VLF-EM signals
Authors: Shirzaditabar Farzad , Karimi Kurosh
Published: January 2020

Unquestionably, current density pseudo-section derived from in-phase very low frequency (VLF) data, developed by Karous and Hjelt, has been one of the most popular preliminary schemes for the interpretation of VLF data due to its straightforwardness and applicability. In practice, however, the Karous and Hjelt filtering method does not behave accurately and has some weaknesses: (i) the depth estimation is erratic, even in shallow cases, (ii) to a far lesser extent, the horizontal estimation is inaccurate, in particular when the sources interfere with each other, and (iii) under circumstances where multiple bodies are in close proximity, spurious artifacts appear. These factors could be misleading and result in a wrong interpretation. Changing the Biot–Savart law into a linear equation and employing inverse theory in this paper, the precision of spatial estimations, in the case of superficial objects, becomes far more precise. More importantly, independent of the number of neighboring targets and their closeness, no spurious artifacts are observed. This methodology is tested on synthetic isolated and interfering various models with different sizes, depths, shapes and resistivities. It is also applied to real data over the ‘Ghoori Ghale’ cave in the vicinity of Kermanshah, Iran, and its satisfying and noteworthy solutions are compared with the Karous and Hjelt method.
Galaxy assembly bias of central galaxies in the Illustris simulation
Authors: Xu Xiaoju , Zheng Zheng
Published: January 2020

Galaxy assembly bias, the correlation between galaxy properties and halo properties at fixed halo mass, could be an important ingredient in halo-based modelling of galaxy clustering. We investigate the central galaxy assembly bias by studying the relation between various galaxy and halo properties in the Illustris hydrodynamic galaxy formation simulation. Galaxy stellar mass M* is found to have a tighter correlation with peak maximum halo circular velocity Vpeak than with halo mass Mh. Once the correlation with Vpeak is accounted for, M* has nearly no dependence on any other halo assembly variables. The correlations between galaxy properties related to star formation history and halo assembly properties also show a cleaner form as a function of Vpeak than as a function of Mh, with the main correlation being with halo formation time and to a less extent halo concentration. Based on the galaxy–halo relation, we present a simple model to relate the bias factors of a central galaxy sample and the corresponding halo sample, both selected based on assembly-related properties. It is found that they are connected by the correlation coefficient of the galaxy and halo properties used to define the two samples, which provides a reasonable description for the samples in the simulation and suggests a simple prescription to incorporate galaxy assembly bias into the halo model. By applying the model to the local galaxy clustering measurements in Lin et al., we infer that the correlation between star formation history or specific star formation rate and halo formation time is consistent with being weak.
The abundance and structure of subhaloes near the free streaming scale and their impact on indirect dark matter searches
Authors: Ishiyama Tomoaki , Ando Shin’ichiro
Published: January 2020

The free streaming motion of dark matter particles imprints a cutoff in the matter power spectrum and set the scale of the smallest dark matter halo. Recent cosmological N-body simulations have shown that the central density cusp is much steeper in haloes near the free streaming scale than in more massive haloes. Here, we study the abundance and structure of subhaloes near the free streaming scale at very high redshift using a suite of unprecedentedly large cosmological N-body simulations, over a wide range of the host halo mass. The subhalo abundance is suppressed strongly below the free streaming scale, but the ratio between the subhalo mass function in the cutoff and no cutoff simulations is well fitted by a single correction function regardless of the host halo mass and the redshift. In subhaloes, the central slopes are considerably shallower than in field haloes, however, are still steeper than that of the NFW profile. Contrary, the concentrations are significantly larger in subhaloes than haloes and depend on the subhalo mass. We compare two methods to extrapolate the mass–concentration relation of haloes and subhaloes to z = 0 and provide a new simple fitting function for subhaloes, based on a suite of large cosmological N-body simulations. Finally, we estimate the annihilation boost factor of a Milky-Way-sized halo to be between 1.8 and 6.2.
Correlating the non-linear time series and spectral properties of IGR J17091–3624: is it similar to GRS 1915+105?
Authors: Adegoke Oluwashina , Mukhopadhyay Banibrata , Misra Ranjeev
Published: January 2020

Using the correlation integral method, we explore the non-linear properties of IGR J17091–3624 by comparing the underlying behaviour to GRS 1915+105. We find that while GRS 1915+105 is known to reveal a combination of fractal (or even chaotic) and stochastic behaviours depending on its temporal class, IGR J17091–3624 mostly shows stochastic behaviour. Therefore, although several observations find that IGR J17091–3624 is similar to GRS 1915+105, and that they have temporal classes in common, the underlying non-linear time series analyses offer a different view. Nevertheless, the ratio of the Poisson noise to rms variation for IGR J17091–3624 turns out to be high, suggesting that it is dominated by Poisson noise. Hence it might plausibly lead to the suppression of its non-linear properties, if there is any. Indeed, IGR J17091–3624 is a very faint source compared with GRS 1915+105. However, by increasing the time bin, some of the temporal classes of IGR J17091–3624 show deviation from stochasticity, indicating the plausibility of a higher fractal dimension. Along with spectral analysis, overall IGR J17091–3624 seems to reveal three different accretion classes: slim, Keplerian and advective accretion discs.
A blazar as the likely counterpart to 4FGL J0647.7−4418 instead of a gamma-ray binary
Authors: Martí Josep , Sánchez-Ayaso Estrella , Luque-Escamilla Pedro L , Paredes Josep M , Bosch-Ramon Valentí , Corbet Robin H D
Published: January 2020

The persistent gamma-ray source 4FGL J0647.7−4418 is tentatively associated in the latest Fermi catalogue with the subdwarf O-type X-ray binary HD 49798. However, an active galactic nucleus (AGN) candidate is also mentioned as an alternative identification in updated versions of the catalogue accompanying paper. If the first association were correct, this would add HD 49798 to the handful of currently known gamma-ray binaries, and therefore represent a significant breakthrough not only because of a new member addition, but also because of the apparent white dwarf companion in this system. Despite these perspectives, here, we show that the stellar association is likely wrong and that the proposed AGN object, well inside the Fermi 95 per cent confidence ellipse, is a more conceivable counterpart candidate to the Fermi source due to its strong blazar similarities.
Magnetic geometry and surface differential rotation of the bright Am star Alhena A
Authors: Blazère Aurore , Petit Pascal , Neiner Coralie , Folsom Colin , Kochukhov Oleg , Mathis Stéphane , Deal Morgan , Landstreet John
Published: January 2020

Alhena A (γ Gem A) is a bright Am star, with the strongest disc-integrated magnetic field strength reported so far for an Am star. Its spectrum exhibits standard circularly polarized Zeeman signatures, contrary to all previously studied Am stars that display abnormal signatures dominated by a single-signed lobe. We present here the result of follow-up observations of Alhena, using very high signal-to-noise spectropolarimetric data obtained over 25 observing nights with NARVAL at Télescope Bernard Lyot, in the frame of the BRITE (BRIght Target Explorer) spectropolarimetric survey. We confirm that Alhena A is magnetic and we determine its surface magnetic properties using different methods. Inclined dipole models are used to reproduce the longitudinal field measurements, as well as the Stokes V line profiles themselves. In both cases, the model is consistent with a polar field strength of ∼30 G. This is confirmed by a Zeeman-Doppler Imaging (ZDI) model, which also unveils smaller scale magnetic structures. A rotational period of 8.975 d was identified using intensity line profile variations. The ZDI inversion suggests that the surface magnetic field is sheared by differential rotation, with a difference in rotation rate between high and low latitudes at about 15 per cent of the solar value. This result challenges theories of the development of surface differential rotation in intermediate mass main-sequence stars.
Optical polarization properties of AGNs with significant VLBI–Gaia offsets
Authors: Kovalev Y Y , Zobnina D I , Plavin A V , Blinov D
Published: January 2020

Significant positional offsets of the value from 1 mas to more than 10 mas were found previously between radio (VLBI) and optical (Gaia) positions of active galactic nuclei (AGNs). They happen preferentially parallel to the parsec-scale jet direction. AGNs with VLBI-to-Gaia offsets pointed downstream the jet are found to have favourably higher optical polarization, as expected if extended optical jets dominate in the emission and shift the Gaia centroid away from the physical nucleus of the source. Upstream offsets with the suggested domination of accretion discs manifest themselves through the observed low optical polarization. Direction of linear optical polarization is confirmed to preferentially align with parsec-scale jets in AGNs with dominant jets consistent with a toroidal magnetic field structure. Our findings support the disc–jet interpretation of the observed positional offsets. These results call on an intensification of AGN optical polarization monitoring programs in order to collect precious observational data. Taken together with the continued VLBI and Gaia observations, they will allow researchers to reconstruct detailed models of the disc–jet system in AGNs on parsec scales.
Paternal Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure Prior to Mating Elicits Deficits in Cholinergic Synaptic Function in the Offspring
Authors: Slotkin Theodore A , Skavicus Samantha , Levin Edward D , Seidler Frederic J
Published: January 2020

Little attention has been paid to the potential impact of paternal marijuana use on offspring brain development. We administered Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, 0, 2, or 4 mg/kg/day) to male rats for 28 days. Two days after the last THC treatment, the males were mated to drug-naïve females. We then assessed the impact on development of acetylcholine (ACh) systems in the offspring, encompassing the period from the onset of adolescence (postnatal day 30) through middle age (postnatal day 150), and including brain regions encompassing the majority of ACh terminals and cell bodies. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol produced a dose-dependent deficit in hemicholinium-3 binding, an index of presynaptic ACh activity, superimposed on regionally selective increases in choline acetyltransferase activity, a biomarker for numbers of ACh terminals. The combined effects produced a persistent decrement in the hemicholinium-3/choline acetyltransferase ratio, an index of impulse activity per nerve terminal. At the low THC dose, the decreased presynaptic activity was partially compensated by upregulation of nicotinic ACh receptors, whereas at the high dose, receptors were subnormal, an effect that would exacerbate the presynaptic defect. Superimposed on these effects, either dose of THC also accelerated the age-related decline in nicotinic ACh receptors. Our studies provide evidence for adverse effects of paternal THC administration on neurodevelopment in the offspring and further demonstrate that adverse impacts of drug exposure on brain development are not limited to effects mediated by the embryonic or fetal chemical environment, but rather that vulnerability is engendered by exposures occurring prior to conception, involving the father as well as the mother.
Wood Smoke Particles Stimulate MUC5AC Overproduction by Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells Through TRPA1 and EGFR Signaling
Authors: Memon Tosifa A , Nguyen Nam D , Burrell Katherine L , Scott Abigail F , Almestica-Roberts Marysol , Rapp Emmanuel , Deering-Rice Cassandra E , Reilly Christopher A
Published: January 2020

Mucus hypersecretion is a pathological feature of acute inflammatory and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Exposure to air pollutants can be a cause of pathological mucus overproduction, but mechanisms by which different forms of air pollutants elicit this response are not fully understood. In this study, particulate matter (PM) generated from burning pine wood and other types of biomass was used to determine mechanisms by which these forms of PM stimulate mucin gene expression and secretion by primary human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs). Biomass PM < 2.5 μm generated from pine wood and several other fuels stimulated the expression and secretion of the gel-forming glycoprotein MUC5AC by HBECs. Muc5ac gene induction was also observed in mouse airways following subacute oropharyngeal delivery of pine wood smoke PM. In HBECs, MUC5AC was also induced by the transient receptor potential ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) agonists’ coniferaldehyde, a component of pine smoke PM, and allyl isothiocyanate, and was attenuated by a TRPA1 antagonist. Additionally, inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1) and the EGFR signaling partners p38 MAPK and GSK3β also prevented MUC5AC overexpression. Collectively, our results suggest that activation of TRPA1 and EGFR, paired with alterations to p38 MAPK and GSK3β activity, plays a major role in MUC5AC overproduction by bronchial epithelial cells exposed to biomass smoke PM. These results reveal specific processes for how biomass smoke PM may impact the human respiratory system and highlight potential avenues for therapeutic manipulation of lung diseases that are affected by air pollutants.
Review of the dynamic stiffness method for free-vibration analysis of beams
Authors: Banerjee J R
Published: January 2020

The application of the dynamic stiffness method (DSM) for free-vibration analysis of beams is surveyed in this paper. The historical development of the DSM, which has taken place in several stages, is discussed in detail with reference to the free-vibration problems of beams. In particular, the suitability of the DSM in solving the free-vibration problems of beams through the application of the well-known Wittrick–Williams algorithm as a solution technique is highlighted. The literature concerning homogeneous isotropic metallic beams, for which the DSM is well established, is reviewed first, after which, with the rapid and ongoing emergence of advanced composite materials, the development of the DSM in solving the free-vibration problems of anisotropic beams is discussed. The free-vibration analysis of functionally graded beams using the DSM is also highlighted. The survey covers the DSM application for free-vibration analysis of a wide range of beams, including sandwich beams, rotating beams, twisted beams, moving beams and bending-torsion coupled beams, amongst others. Some aspects of the contributions made by the author and his research team are also highlighted. Finally, the future potential of the DSM in solving complex engineering problems is projected.
Crafting an Interesting Job: Stimulating an Active Role of Older Workers in Enhancing Their Daily Work Engagement and Job Performance
Authors: Kooij Dorien T A M , Nijssen Helen , Bal P Matthijs , van der Kruijssen Daphne T F
Published: January 2020

Since workforces are aging rapidly worldwide, older workers need to work longer. Therefore, this study investigated active ways through which older workers shape their job to age successfully at work. We build on the lifespan psychology literature and the activation hypothesis to argue that activating workdays, characterized by high work pressure and high autonomy, stimulate older workers to engage in job crafting behaviors aimed at making their jobs more interesting (i.e., interests crafting) rather than in job crafting behaviors aimed at lowering their work pressure (i.e., work pressure crafting). Interests crafting in turn enhances the work engagement and job performance of older workers. We conducted a daily diary study among 128 older workers and found that activating workdays were indeed positively associated with daily interests crafting, and that daily interests crafting was positively related to daily work engagement and daily job performance. In contrast, we found that although daily work pressure was positively associated with daily work pressure crafting, an activating workday was not, and engaging in work pressure crafting was negatively associated with daily work engagement and job performance. These results demonstrate that older workers can be stimulated daily to engage in effective job crafting behaviors to make sure that they are motivated and productive members of the workforce.
Women and Infants in the Deep South Receiving Perinatal and Neonatal Palliative and Supportive Care Services
Authors: Davis Sara L. , Harmon C. Miles , Baker Urquhart Brady , Moore Bridget , Sprague Rene
Published: January 2020

Background:

While women in the Deep South area of the United States have higher rates of maternal and infant mortality, palliative and supportive care programs are lacking. Additionally, few studies have detailed referral triggers that are specific to the mother, infant, or pregnancy for inclusion in perinatal and neonatal palliative and supportive care programs.

Purpose:

The purpose of this retrospective, descriptive study was to examine the sociodemographic factors and referral triggers for perinatal-neonatal palliative and supportive care services for women enrolled in a newly developed perinatal-neonatal palliative and supportive care program.

Methods:

Data were collected from medical records of 135 women enrolled in the program. Triggers for referral to the program were classified as fetal, maternal, or prenatal complications.

Results:

A diverse sample of women were enrolled in the program. Most infants survived to birth and discharge from the hospital. Two-thirds of referrals were related to infant complications and 34% were for multiple complications (fetal, maternal, and/or prenatal). Triggers for referral to the program were not related to sociodemographic characteristics of women.

Implications for Practice:

A comprehensive list of triggers that include maternal and prenatal complications, in addition to infant complications, may ensure at-risk women and infants, are enrolled in perinatal-neonatal palliative and supportive care programs early in pregnancy, regardless of sociodemographic factors.

Implications for Research:

Prospective research on the effectiveness of perinatal-neonatal palliative and supportive care programs in diverse populations of women is needed. This includes the examination of family health outcomes and provider perspectives.
Vulnerability in Nurses
Authors: Angel Sanne , Vatne Solfrid , Martinsen Bente
Published: January 2020

Patients' vulnerability is a core concern in nursing. However, the nurse's endeavor to succeed may precipitate her vulnerability. Involving master students, 14 nurses' experiences of vulnerability in their professional roles were explored with a descriptive phenomenological approach. Vulnerability among nurses showed to be a latent feeling that manifests via bodily reactions including being overwhelmed by one's feelings and struggling to avoid being hurt. These experiences were evident in situations with patients and relatives, but also coworkers and working conditions, the latter suggests that the exposure of vulnerability may be possible to reduce by organizational awareness.
Fetal Movement Counting and Perinatal Mortality
Authors: Bellussi Federica , Po' Gaia , Livi Alessandra , Saccone Gabriele , De Vivo Valentino , Oliver Emily A. , Berghella Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the association of fetal movement counting with perinatal mortality.

DATA SOURCES:

Electronic databases (ie, MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, ScienceDirect, the Cochrane Library at the CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials) were searched from inception until May 2019. Search terms used were: “fetal movement,” “fetal movement counting,” “fetal kick counting,” “stillbirth,” “fetal demise,” “fetal mortality,” and “perinatal death.”

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

We included all randomized controlled trials comparing perinatal mortality in those women randomized to receive instructions for fetal movement counting compared with a control group of women without such instruction.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS:

The primary outcome was perinatal mortality. Five of 1,290 identified articles were included, with 468,601 fetuses. Definitions of decreased fetal movement varied. In four of five studies, women in the intervention group were asked to contact their health care providers if they perceived decreased fetal movement; the fifth study did not provide details. Reported reduction in fetal movement usually resulted in electronic fetal monitoring and ultrasound assessment of fetal well-being. There was no difference in the incidence of perinatal outcome between groups. The incidence of perinatal death was 0.54% (1,252/229,943) in the fetal movement counting group and 0.59% (944/159,755) in the control group (relative risk [RR] 0.92, 95% CI 0.85–1.00). There were no statistical differences for other perinatal outcomes as stillbirths, neonatal deaths, birth weight less than 10th percentile, reported decreased fetal movement, 5-minute Apgar score less than 7, neonatal intensive care unit admission or perinatal morbidity. There were weak but significant increases in preterm delivery (7.6% vs 7.1%; RR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05–1.10), induction of labor (36.6% vs 31.6%; RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.09–1.22), and cesarean delivery (28.2% vs 25.3%; RR 1.11, 95% CI 1.10–1.12).

CONCLUSION:

Instructing pregnant women on fetal movement counting compared with no instruction is not associated with a clear improvement in pregnancy outcomes. There are weak associations with some secondary outcomes such as preterm delivery, induction of labor, and cesarean delivery.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD42019123264.
Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma During Third-Trimester Pregnancy and Lactation
Authors: Hersey Alicia E. , Giglio Patricia , Kurt Habibe , Tarabulsi Gofran , Chen Kenneth K.
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND:

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma affecting pregnancy. These tumors may be aggressive and rapidly growing in pregnancy. Management is based on the balance of risks and benefits to both the pregnant patient and the fetus.

CASE:

We present a case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma diagnosed in the third trimester of pregnancy. The patient underwent labor induction at 34 weeks of gestation, started a standard chemotherapy protocol postpartum, and breastfed following a timed lactation protocol.

CONCLUSION:

Management of lymphoma during pregnancy highlights the need to consider all aspects of proposed oncologic and obstetric care as well as neonatal risks. Considerations highlighted in this case include staging methods, administration of antenatal steroids, timing of delivery, and lactation during chemotherapy.
Patient Decision Aids to Facilitate Shared Decision Making in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Poprzeczny Amanda J. , Stocking Katie , Showell Marian , Duffy James M. N.
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the effectiveness of patient decision aids to facilitate shared decision making in obstetrics and gynecology.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched ClinicalTrials.gov, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility specialized register, CINAHL, and EMBASE from 1946 to July 2019.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

We selected randomized controlled trials comparing patient decision aids with usual clinical practice or a control intervention.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

Thirty-five randomized controlled trials, which reported data from 9,790 women, were included. Patient decision aids were evaluated within a wide range of clinical scenarios relevant to obstetrics and gynecology, including contraception, vaginal birth after cesarean delivery, and pelvic organ prolapse. Study characteristics and quality were recorded for each study. The meta-analysis was based on random-effects methods for pooled data. A standardized mean difference of 0.2 is considered small, 0.5 moderate, and 0.8 large. When compared with usual clinical practice, the use of patient decision aids reduced decisional conflict (standardized mean difference −0.23; 95% CI −0.36, to −0.11; 19 trials; 4,624 women) and improved patient knowledge (standardized mean difference 0.58; 95% CI 0.44 to 0.71; 17 trials; 4,375 women). There was no difference in patient anxiety (standardized mean difference −0.04; 95% CI −0.14 to 0.06; 12 trials; 2,714 women) or satisfaction (standardized mean difference 0.17; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.24; 6 trials; 2,718 women).

CONCLUSION:

Patient decision aids are effective in facilitating shared decision making and can be helpful in clinical practice to support patient centered care informed by the best evidence.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO International Register of Systematic Reviews, www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/89953, CRD42018089953.
Race and Ethnicity, Medical Insurance, and Within-Hospital Severe Maternal Morbidity Disparities
Authors: Howell Elizabeth A. , Egorova Natalia N. , Janevic Teresa , Brodman Michael , Balbierz Amy , Zeitlin Jennifer , Hebert Paul L.
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVE:

To examine within-hospital racial and ethnic disparities in severe maternal morbidity rates and determine whether they are associated with differences in types of medical insurance.

METHODS:

We conducted a population-based, cross-sectional study using linked 2010–2014 New York City discharge and birth certificate data sets (N=591,455 deliveries) to examine within-hospital black–white, Latina–white, and Medicaid–commercially insured differences in severe maternal morbidity. We used logistic regression to produce risk-adjusted rates of severe maternal morbidity for patients with commercial and Medicaid insurance and for black, Latina, and white patients within each hospital. We compared these within-hospital adjusted rates using paired t-tests and conditional logit models.

RESULTS:

Severe maternal morbidity was higher among black and Latina women than white women (4.2% and 2.9% vs 1.5%, respectively, P<.001) and among women insured by Medicaid than those commercially insured (2.8% vs 2.0%, P<.001). Women insured by Medicaid compared with those with commercial insurance had similar risk for severe maternal morbidity within the same hospital (P=.54). In contrast, black women compared with white women had significantly higher risk for severe maternal morbidity within the same hospital (P<.001), as did Latina women (P<.001). Conditional logit analyses confirmed these findings, with black and Latina women compared with white women having higher risk for severe maternal morbidity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.52; 95% CI 1.46–1.62 and aOR 1.44; 95% CI 1.36–1.53, respectively) and women insured by Medicaid compared with those commercially insured having similar risk.

CONCLUSION:

Within hospitals in New York City, black and Latina women are at higher risk of severe maternal morbidity than white women; this is not associated with differences in types of insurance.
Comparison of total cost and outcomes between single-stage open reduction and Pemberton periacetabular osteotomy operation and two separate consecutive operations in treatment of bilateral developmental hip dysplasia in children at walking age
Authors: Yilar Sinan , Topal Murat , Zencirli Kemal , Köse Mehmet , Ezirmik Naci
Published: January 2020

Open reduction and Pemberton periacetabular osteotomy (PPO) is one of the most preferred techniques for the treatment of developmental hip dyslaplasia (DDH) after the walking age. Performing the surgery as a one-stage operation or two separate consecutive operations is a controversial issue. In this study, we aimed to compare the outcomes, length of hospitalization and total cost between the patients whom had single-stage open reduction and PPO or two consecutive operations due to bilateral DDH in the walking age children. One hundred thirty patients with bilateral DDH had undergone open reduction and PPO for both hips. Seventy-five patients had one-stage open reduction and PPO for both of the hips, whereas 55 patients have two separate consecutive operations. Total time of exposure to anesthetics, blood loss and duration of operation were noted. Hospitalization period and total treatment costs were also noted for each patient. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding the preoperative and postoperative AIs (P > 0.05). Comparing the total cost, length of hospitalization, exposure to anesthetics, perioperative blood loss, there was statistically significant difference between the groups (P < 0.005). Single-stage surgery had favorable outcomes. Major benefits of single-stage surgery for treatment of bilateral DDH are the reduced costs, anesthesia duration, intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization period. Also it can be presumed that prolonged immobilization can lead to loss of bone strength and resulting in fragility fractures. So single-stage open reduction and PPO for bilateral DDH can be preferred in experienced clinics.
Citation analysis of the highest-cited articles on developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Moscona Leon , Castañeda Pablo , Masrouha Karim
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study is to determine the highest-cited articles on developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and analyze their bibliometric characteristics. We searched the Web of Science (WoS) for articles with the highest number of citations on DDH and recorded their number of citations in WoS, Scopus, and Google Scholar (GS). We ranked and selected the top 100 cited articles. The average number of citations in WoS was 148 (range 66–638). The most-cited article in all databases was Crowe’s total hip replacement cohort on DDH. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery American Volume (n = 35) had the most articles in the list, and the United States (n = 46) contributed with the most articles. The University of Bern had the most publications (n = 8). Most studies were therapeutic (n = 45) or diagnostic (n = 29). Hip preservation and arthroplasty investigations have had an increment in citations in recent decades. We provide an historical perspective on research conducted on DDH. A majority of the articles were observational and therapeutic. All databases had good correlation in the number of citations.
Steroid-Associated Acute Clinical Worsening and Poor Outcome in Patients With Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas
Authors: Ma Yongjie , Hong Tao , Chen Sichang , Peng Chao , Wang Chunxiu , Yang Kun , Yu Jiaxing , Ren Jian , Bian Lisong , Liu Jiang , Wang Zhichao , Krings Timo , Ling Feng , Zhang Hongqi
Published: January 2020

Study Design.

A prospective cohort study.

Objective.

We conducted a prospective cohort study to identify the association between steroids and clinical worsening and compare outcomes between patients with and without preoperative steroid administration.

Summary of Background Data.

Patients with spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) often were misdiagnosed and treated with steroids which led to acute worsening.

Methods.

Patients with angiographically confirmed SDAVFs were recruited consecutively between March 2013 and December 2014 in two referral centers. We reviewed the history of all the patients to identify those patients who were treated with steroids before exclusion of the fistulas. Modified Aminoff & Logue scale (mALS) was used to evaluate the spinal cord function at different time points: before and after steroid administration, before operation, and at 1-year follow-up. Paired t tests were used to assess the mALS of patients with steroid administration at different time points. Unpaired t tests and Pearson chi-square test were used to assess differences between patients with and without steroid administration.

Results.

Eighteen patients with (18.2%) and 81 patients without (81.8%) steroid administration were included in this study. At baseline, there were no difference between both patient groups, in regards to age, sex, duration, location of fistula, treatment, and preoperative mALS. Patients without steroid administration, however, had statistically significant better outcome according to their mALS at 1-year follow-up (P < 0.05).

Conclusion.

Steroid administration can induce acute clinical worsening in patients with SDAVFs that may persist despite successful obliteration of the fistula and should thus be avoided.

Level of Evidence: 3