bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic impact analysis of the coronary heart disease-attributed health care cost savings and productivity gains from the use of Psyllium
Authors: Shanahan Christopher J. , Gibb Roger D. , McRorie Johnson W. , Brum Jose M. , Ritchey Mary E.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Numerous randomized clinical studies have shown that psyllium fiber lowers serum cholesterol in patients with hyperlipidemia and is thus recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a dietary fiber that may help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) by lowering cholesterol. The purpose of this paper is to assess the potential economic implications for health-care cost savings and quality of life productivity gains if the cholesterol-lowering effect of psyllium, consumed daily as a fiber supplement, could be applied to a broad at-risk population.

Design/methodology/approach

A cost-benefit analysis tool was used to examine evidence that the use of psyllium as a cholesterol-lowering agent can reduce overall CHD-attributed medical care service costs in the USA among those at high risk of experiencing disease-related events.

Findings

Results of the analysis showed that the potential net annual avoided medical care service costs and annual quality of life productivity gains among US adults 45 and older with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels = 130 mg/dL could be up to an average of $870m per year from 2013 to 2020 if everyone in the target population used seven grams of soluble fiber from psyllium daily, corresponding to a net benefit-cost ratio of $1.19 savings in annual medical service cost and annual productivity gains per $1 spent on a psyllium regimen.

Originality/value

Thus, the use of psyllium fiber as a daily supplement could be recommended as a means to help control the risk for potentially costly cardiovascular-related medical events and to maximize the economic potential for an improved quality of life in adults 45 and older with LDL cholesterol levels =130 mg/dL.
European ruling parties’ electoral strategies and overseas enfranchisement policies
Authors: TURCU ANCA , URBATSCH R.
Published: September 2019

Emigrants’ ideologies and partisan attitudes may diverge from other voters’: overseas voters are ideologically self‐selected, receive distinctive information about campaigns and have experiences abroad that are likely to shape their political views. Parties, anticipating these emigrant attitudes, can manipulate overseas voting availability to give the vote primarily to their own supporters. Alternatively, parties may expect newly enfranchised voters to provide electoral support in gratitude for the right to vote. To distinguish these separate processes, this project undertakes a case study of Turkey to trace a ruling party's strategic expectations as it makes overseas‐enfranchisement decisions. To see how generalisable these results are, the study further extends to a statistical analysis of differences in vote choice between voters at home and abroad across all 23 European countries that report overseas votes separately, using an original dataset encompassing 121 elections. Both the case study and the statistical analysis suggest that emigrant‐enfranchising parties tend to garner overseas voters’ support in a lasting way. This suggests that overseas enfranchisement most often appears to involve incumbent parties (correctly) expecting long‐term ideological compatibility with their overseas nationals, not simply exchanging the franchise for short‐term, transactional support.
Replens prevents preterm birth by decreasing type I interferon strengthening the cervical epithelial barrier
Authors: Nold Christopher , Jensen Todd , O'Hara Kathleen , Stone Julie , Yellon Steven M. , Vella Anthony T.
Published: September 2019

Problem

A breakdown of the cervical epithelial barrier has been associated with preterm cervical remodeling. It is unknown if Replens, the vehicle for vaginal progesterone, alters cervical epithelial junctional proteins impacting cervical remodeling and preterm birth.

Method of study

E17 CD‐1 pregnant mice received an intrauterine injection of saline or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Effect of intravaginal Replens given on day E16 and on E17 coincident with LPS was tested. A second experiment determined if an antibody to the interferon receptor (IFNaR) blocked the effects of LPS. Mice were killed after six hours, the preterm birth rate was recorded, and the serum and cervices were collected for analysis. Additionally, the epithelial cell barrier was assessed using an in vitro permeability assay.

Results

Replens decreased the rate of LPS‐induced preterm birth within six hours, from 87.5% to 37.5% (P < .005). LPS + IFNaR antibody decreased the rate of preterm birth or vaginal bleeding compared to LPS + control antibody mice, 43.8% vs 87%, respectively (P < .01). E‐Cadherin in the mouse serum was increased by LPS, an effect mitigated by treatment with Replens (P < .0001) or the IFNaR antibody (P < .01). Replens + LPS decreased the expression of IFN‐β (P < .01). The anti‐IFNaR, as well as Replens, decreased the expression of MMP13 (P < .05) compared to LPS mice. Replens also prevented the LPS‐induced increase in permeability (P < .001).

Conclusion

Replens prevents preterm birth by decreasing the interferon‐induced upregulation of MMP13 and the degradation of the cell adhesion protein E‐Cadherin. Further studies are needed to determine if Replens can be useful as treatment for preterm birth.
The role of animal welfare values in the rhino horn trade debate
Authors: Brown Abigail A. , Dean Angela J. , Possingham Hugh , Biggs Duan
Published: September 2019

The poaching crisis facing Africa's white rhinoceros is one of the continent's most pressing conservation challenges. The controversial proposal to legalize the international trade in rhino horn as a solution has led to a polarized conservation community. While a legal trade in rhino horn has been explored from an economic perspective, stakeholder values are yet to be adequately considered in addressing the issue. Exploring the role of stakeholder values in the rhino horn trade debate is crucial, as divergent stakeholder values and attitudes influence policy support and acceptability, creating conflict over appropriate management interventions. Using a survey of 285 participants, we show that people with stronger animal welfare values are less supportive of a legal rhino horn trade policy. We also demonstrate that people with stronger animal welfare values are less influenced by information provision, and that biospheric and altruistic value orientations do not significantly influence support for this policy. Our findings highlight the importance of considering stakeholder values when developing conservation actions, particularly concerning discussions about controversial policy actions. These findings can be extended beyond the illegal wildlife trade crisis to other challenges affecting iconic wildlife, such as trophy hunting, other sustainable use initiatives and invasive species management.
Prognostic Significance of Preoperative Systemic Cellular Inflammatory Markers in Gliomas: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wang Da‐Peng , Kang Kai , Lin Qi , Hai Jian
Published: September 2019

Glioma is the most common malignant brain tumor and has high lethality. This tumor generated a robust inflammatory response that results in the deterioration of the disease. However, the prognostic role of systemic cellular inflammatory indicators in gliomas remains controversial. This meta‐analysis aimed to assess the prognostic significance of preoperative neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), red cell distribution width (RDW), and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in patients with gliomas. Databases of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched for all studies published up to January 2019. Study screening and data extraction followed established Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of studies. Eighteen studies containing 3,261 patients were included. The analyses showed an increased NLR or RDW was found to be an independent predictor of worse survival in patients with gliomas (hazard ratio (HR): 1.38; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09–1.74; P = 0.008; and HR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.13–1.74; P = 0.002, respectively). Furthermore, a higher PNI indicates a better overall survival (OS; HR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.42–0.77; P = 0.0002). For the evaluation of PLR and LMR, none of these variables correlated with OS (P = 0.91 and P = 0.21, respectively). Our meta‐analysis indicates the NLR, RDW, and PNI rather than PLR and LMR are the independent index for predicting the OS of gliomas. Pre‐operative NLR, RDW, and PNI can help to evaluate disease progression, optimize treatment, and follow‐up in patients with gliomas.
Feasibility of underwater endoscopic mucosal resection and management of residues for superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial neoplasms
Authors: Iwagami Hiroyoshi , Takeuchi Yoji , Yamasaki Yasushi , Nakagawa Kentaro , Ohmori Masayasu , Matsuno Kenshi , Inoue Shuntaro , Iwatsubo Taro , Nakahira Hiroko , Matsuura Noriko , Shichijo Satoki , Maekawa Akira , Kanesaka Takashi , Higashino Koji , Uedo Noriya , Ishihara Ryu
Published: September 2019

Background and Aim

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is effective for superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial neoplasms (SNADEN). However, the incidence of residual lesion after UEMR, especially for large lesions (≥20 mm), and their prognosis remain unclear. We aimed to assess the incidence of residual lesions and further outcomes after UEMR for SNADEN.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective study at a tertiary cancer institute. Candidates for the study were systematically retrieved from an endoscopic and pathological database from January 2013 to April 2018.

Results

A total of 162 SNADEN resected with UEMR were analyzed. Median (range) procedure time was 5 (1–70) min. En bloc resection rates for large lesions (≥20 mm) and small lesions (<20 mm) were 14% and 79%, respectively. Intraprocedural bleeding occurred in one (0.6%) case, but no intraprocedural perforation occurred during the study. Delayed bleeding occurred in two (1.2%) cases and delayed perforation occurred in one (0.6%) case. A total of 157 (97%) lesions were followed up by at least one endoscopic examination. Of these lesions, residual lesions were recognized in seven cases (5%). Additional UEMR was carried out in five lesions and underwater cold snare polypectomy in one lesion. One lesion was observed without additional treatment. After salvage intervention, no cases experienced further residual lesions.

Conclusion

Although UEMR for SNADEN can be relevant when other efficacious procedures are unavailable, careful follow up for residual lesions is required especially after piecemeal resection for large lesions.
Response to letter about ‘Lack of an effective drug for abdominal aortic aneurysm’
Authors: Golledge J. , Singh T. P. , Moxon J. V. , Bown M. , Mani K. , Wanhainen A.
Published: September 2019

Click here to view the Letter to the Editor by Cao et al.
Diagrammatic scale for severity evaluation of the Eremanthus erythropappus–Puccinia velata pathosystem
Authors: Martins Pereira Renata Cristina , de Alencar Laignier Filho Cézar , Amaral de Melo Lucas , Alozen Paulo Cesar , Gonçalves Mafia Reginaldo , Ferreira Barros Aline , Alves Ferreira Maria
Published: September 2019

Candeia (Eremanthus erythropappus (DC.) MacLeish), a native forest species from South America, has garnered commercial interest due to its production of essential oil that contains alpha‐bisabolol. This compound is widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry, with approximately 80% of Brazilian production being exported. Since candeia rust (Puccinia velata) has only been reported in Brazil, little is known about its epidemiology and control. There is no methodology to quantify rust severity in candeia, justifying the elaboration and validation of a diagrammatic scale containing eight levels of disease severity based on leaf area coverage (0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 4%, 8%, 16% and 32%). In a natural sampling of disease in the field, 95% of the leaves showed severity below 16%, with the remaining 5% showing severities between 16% and 32% of leaf area. Validation of the proposed diagrammatic scale was performed by assessing the results from 10 inexperienced evaluators, performing evaluations of three leaves with different severity levels. The evaluations were performed at 7‐day intervals; in the first instance, severity values were assigned without the diagrammatic scale, and for the second attempt, the scale proposed in this study was used. The accuracy and precision of the severity estimates produced by each evaluator compared to the real severity was analysed by linear regression and by Lin's statistics. The reproducibility of the estimates was evaluated by analysing the coefficient of determination of linear regressions by pairs of evaluators. The scale provided adequate levels of accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility, indicating the proposed scale was a suitable method for quantifying the severity of candeia rust.
Greater effect of warming on community composition with increased precipitation and in moister landscape location
Authors: Ronk Argo , Liancourt Pierre , Boldgiv Bazartseren , Petraitis Peter S. , Casper Brenda B.
Published: September 2019

Questions

We asked how plant community composition responded to experimentally produced warmer and drier climate conditions at the landscape scale with existing variation in local species composition and environmental conditions. We aimed to identify changes in community composition overall and the species with greatest response in abundance, and hypothesized that locally restricted species may be more sensitive to warming than more widespread species within the landscape based on the assumption that they have a narrower niche breadth with respect to environmental conditions.

Location

Semiarid, northern Mongolian steppe.

Methods

Open‐top passive warming chambers (OTCs) elevated temperatures at two slope locations that differed in elevation, degree of slope, environmental conditions, and species composition. The OTC treatment was crossed with watering on the drier upper slope. Community composition differences among treatments were examined using canonical analysis of principal coordinates (CAP), which identified species contributing the most to differences. In response to warming, we also compared species locally restricted to one slope location with locally widespread species.

Results

Open‐top passive warming chambers affected community composition more where soil moisture was greater, at the lower slope location and where warming was combined with supplemental watering on the drier upper slope. Locally restricted species responded negatively to the OTC while locally widespread species showed no overall response.

Conclusions

Community composition responses to warming differ even within the landscape over and above the initial differences that exist in community structure and abiotic factors. Our results suggest that a warmer and drier climate will impact community composition sooner under more mesic conditions, affect locally restricted species more strongly, and reduce variation in species composition across the landscape. To better predict community responses to future warming, we must consider combined and interactive effects with changes in precipitation and extant water availability.
Challenging the neurobiological link between number sense and symbolic numerical abilities
Authors: Wilkey Eric D. , Ansari Daniel
Published: September 2019

A significant body of research links individual differences in symbolic numerical abilities, such as arithmetic, to number sense, the neurobiological system used to approximate and manipulate quantities without language or symbols. However, recent findings from cognitive neuroscience challenge this influential theory. Our current review presents an overview of evidence for the number sense account of symbolic numerical abilities and then reviews recent studies that challenge this account, organized around the following four assertions. (1) There is no number sense as traditionally conceived. (2) Neural substrates of number sense are more widely distributed than common consensus asserts, complicating the neurobiological evidence linking number sense to numerical abilities. (3) The most common measures of number sense are confounded by other cognitive demands, which drive key correlations. (4) Number sense and symbolic number systems (Arabic digits, number words, and so on) rely on distinct neural mechanisms and follow independent developmental trajectories. The review follows each assertion with comments on future directions that may bring resolution to these issues.
The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) draft genome dissects genetic divergence between soft‐ and hard‐seeded cultivars
Authors: Luo Xiang , Li Haoxian , Wu Zhikun , Yao Wen , Zhao Peng , Cao Da , Yu Haiyan , Li Kaidi , Poudel Krishna , Zhao Diguang , Zhang Fuhong , Xia Xiaocong , Chen Lina , Wang Qi , Jing Dan , Cao Shangyin
Published: September 2019

Complete and highly accurate reference genomes and gene annotations are indispensable for basic biological research and trait improvement of woody tree species. In this study, we integrated single‐molecule sequencing and high‐throughput chromosome conformation capture techniques to produce a high‐quality and long‐range contiguity chromosome‐scale genome assembly of the soft‐seeded pomegranate cultivar ‘Tunisia’. The genome covers 320.31 Mb (scaffold N50 = 39.96 Mb; contig N50 = 4.49 Mb) and includes 33 594 protein‐coding genes. We also resequenced 26 pomegranate varieties that varied regarding seed hardness. Comparative genomic analyses revealed many genetic differences between soft‐ and hard‐seeded pomegranate varieties. A set of selective loci containing SUC8‐like, SUC6, FoxO and MAPK were identified by the selective sweep analysis between hard‐ and soft‐seeded populations. An exceptionally large selective region (26.2 Mb) was identified on chromosome 1. Our assembled pomegranate genome is more complete than other currently available genome assemblies. Our results indicate that genomic variations and selective genes may have contributed to the genetic divergence between soft‐ and hard‐seeded pomegranate varieties.
On Empirical Methodology, Constraints, and Hierarchy in Artificial Grammar Learning
Authors: Levelt Willem J. M.
Published: September 2019

This paper considers the AGL literature from a psycholinguistic perspective. It first presents a taxonomy of the experimental familiarization test procedures used, which is followed by a consideration of shortcomings and potential improvements of the empirical methodology. It then turns to reconsidering the issue of grammar learning from the point of view of acquiring constraints, instead of the traditional AGL approach in terms of acquiring sets of rewrite rules. This is, in particular, a natural way of handling long‐distance dependences. The final section addresses an underdeveloped issue in the AGL literature, namely how to detect latent hierarchical structure in AGL response patterns.
Understanding the Meaning of Representation in a Deliberative Democratic Governance System
Authors: Kihl Lisa A. , Schull Vicki
Published: September 2019

The meaning and nature of athlete representation in sport governance is broad and goes beyond formalistic delegate models and voting rights accounts. This article explores the meaning and nature of representation in the context of intercollegiate sport governance. Interviews were conducted with intercollegiate athlete representatives and athlete representative administrative advisors to gain an understanding of how and why athlete representatives carried out their roles. Findings revealed that the meaning and motivations of athlete representation were based on the institutionalized deliberative democratic governance system. Representation meant standing and acting for the power of the athlete voice and having the capacity to generate the athlete voice into legislation and decision making. The performative role of representatives involved self-accountability, where they accepted responsibility to engage in a deliberative process of collective decision making. Implications for practice and future research on athlete representation in a deliberative democratic sport governance system are presented.
The Acinetobacter baumannii Znu System Overcomes Host-Imposed Nutrient Zinc Limitation
Authors: Hesse Laura E. , Lonergan Zachery R. , Beavers William N. , Skaar Eric P.
Published: September 2019

Acinetobacter baumannii
is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen capable of causing a variety of infections, including pneumonia, sepsis, wound, and burn infections.
A. baumannii
is an increasing threat to public health due to the prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains, leading the World Health Organization to declare
A. baumannii
a “Priority 1: Critical” pathogen, for which the development of novel antimicrobials is desperately needed.
Arching followed by catenary response of steel shear connections in disproportionate collapse
Authors: Daneshvar Hossein , Oosterhof Steven A. , Driver Robert G.
Published: September 2019

Steel shear connections are mainly designed to sustain shear forces. There is limited research assessing the axial response of shear connections, which is important in the evaluation of robustness of steel structures. Structural collapse can be arrested following localized damage if an alternative load path with sufficient capacity is available. In this study, the formation of compressive arching action followed by tensile catenary action is investigated. It is shown that in a column loss scenario, connections may develop significant axial compressive force before catenary action begins; this phenomenon has often been neglected in assessments of connection robustness in the sense that axial force is reported as a tensile action only. The presence of arching action has been confirmed in two experimental programs, and one set is selected for further study using a numerical approach. A simplified analytical model is then presented and compared with the observed axial response of these connections. It is concluded that vertical eccentricity between the centres of rotation of the connections at the two ends of a beam is the principal factor causing the development of a compressive arching force. Another influential parameter that affects the formation of arching action is the stiffness of the surrounding structure.
The CS teacher shortage
Authors: Shein Esther
Published: September 2019

How can we fill more computer science classrooms when there just aren't enough teachers to go around?
Renal hemodynamics and fatty acid uptake: effects of obesity and weight loss
Authors: Rebelos Eleni , Dadson Prince , Oikonen Vesa , Iida Hidehiro , Hannukainen Jarna C. , Iozzo Patricia , Ferrannini Ele , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: September 2019

Human studies of renal hemodynamics and metabolism in obesity are insufficient. We hypothesized that renal perfusion and renal free fatty acid (FFA) uptake are higher in subjects with morbid obesity compared with lean subjects and that they both decrease after bariatric surgery. Cortical and medullary hemodynamics and metabolism were measured in 23 morbidly obese women and 15 age- and sex-matched nonobese controls by PET scanning of [15O]-H2O (perfusion) and 14( R,S)-[18F]fluoro-6-thia-heptadecanoate (FFA uptake). Kidney volume and radiodensity were measured by computed tomography, cardiac output by MRI. Obese subjects were re-studied 6 mo after bariatric surgery. Obese subjects had higher renal volume but lower radiodensity, suggesting accumulation of water and/or lipid. Both cardiac output and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were increased by ~25% in the obese. Total renal blood flow was higher in the obese [885 (317) (expressed as median and interquartile range) vs. 749 (300) (expressed as means and SD) ml/min of controls, P = 0.049]. In both groups, regional blood perfusion was higher in the cortex than medulla; in either region, FFA uptake was ~50% higher in the obese as a consequence of higher circulating FFA levels. Following weight loss (26 ± 8 kg), total renal blood flow was reduced ( P = 0.006). Renal volume, eGFR, cortical and medullary FFA uptake were decreased but not fully normalized. Obesity is associated with renal structural, hemodynamic, and metabolic changes. Six months after bariatric surgery, the hemodynamic changes are reversed and the structural changes are improved. On the contrary, renal FFA uptake remains increased, driven by high substrate availability.
Relationship Between Troponin on Presentation and In‐Hospital Mortality in Patients With ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Wanamaker Brett L. , Seth Milan M. , Sukul Devraj , Dixon Simon R. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Madder Ryan D. , Rumsfeld John S. , Gurm Hitinder S.
Published: September 2019

Background

Troponin release in ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (
STEMI
) has predictable kinetics with early levels reflective of ischemia duration. Little research has examined the value of admission troponin levels in
STEMI
patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. We investigated the relationship between troponin on presentation and mortality in a large, real‐world cohort of
STEMI
patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

We used multivariable adaptive regression modeling to examine the association between admission troponin levels and in‐hospital mortality for patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention for
STEMI
. We adjusted for known clinical risk factors using a validated mortality risk model derived from the NCDR (National Cardiovascular Data Registry) CathPCI database, and this same model was used to calculate patients’ predicted mortality based on clinical and demographic factors. Patients were then stratified by troponin groups to compare predicted versus observed mortality. Of the 14 061 patients included in the cohort, 47.2% had initial troponin levels that were undetectable or within the reference range. Admission troponin was an independent predictor of in‐hospital mortality, and any value above the reference range was associated with increased mortality (1.8% versus 5.1%, [standardized difference, 18.2%]). Patients with the highest predicted risk for mortality (13% predicted) in the highest admission troponin grouping experienced an observed mortality of 19.5%. Patients in low troponin groupings consistently demonstrated lower than predicted mortality based on their clinical and demographic risk profile.

Conclusions

Nearly half of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention had normal troponin on presentation and had a relatively good outcome. Mortality increases with elevated admission troponin levels, regardless of baseline clinical risk. The substantial number of patients who present with markedly elevated troponin and their relatively worse outcomes highlights the need for continued improvement in prehospital
STEMI
detection and care.
Machine Learning–Enabled Automated Determination of Acute Ischemic Core From Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Sheth Sunil A. , Lopez-Rivera Victor , Barman Arko , Grotta James C. , Yoo Albert J. , Lee Songmi , Inam Mehmet E. , Savitz Sean I. , Giancardo Luca
Published: September 2019

Background and Purpose—

The availability of and expertise to interpret advanced neuroimaging recommended in the guideline-based endovascular stroke therapy (EST) evaluation are limited. Here, we develop and validate an automated machine learning-based method that evaluates for large vessel occlusion (LVO) and ischemic core volume in patients using a widely available modality, computed tomography angiogram (CTA).

Methods—

From our prospectively maintained stroke registry and electronic medical record, we identified patients with acute ischemic stroke and stroke mimics with contemporaneous CTA and computed tomography perfusion (CTP) with RAPID (IschemaView) post-processing as a part of the emergent stroke workup. A novel convolutional neural network named DeepSymNet was created and trained to identify LVO as well as infarct core from CTA source images, against CTP-RAPID definitions. Model performance was measured using 10-fold cross validation and receiver-operative curve area under the curve (AUC) statistics.

Results—

Among the 297 included patients, 224 (75%) had acute ischemic stroke of which 179 (60%) had LVO. Mean CTP-RAPID ischemic core volume was 23±42 mL. LVO locations included internal carotid artery (13%), M1 (44%), and M2 (21%). The DeepSymNet algorithm autonomously learned to identify the intracerebral vasculature on CTA and detected LVO with AUC 0.88. The method was also able to determine infarct core as defined by CTP-RAPID from the CTA source images with AUC 0.88 and 0.90 (ischemic core ≤30 mL and ≤50 mL). These findings were maintained in patients presenting in early (0–6 hours) and late (6–24 hours) time windows (AUCs 0.90 and 0.91, ischemic core ≤50 mL). DeepSymNet probabilities from CTA images corresponded with CTP-RAPID ischemic core volumes as a continuous variable with
r
=0.7 (Pearson correlation,
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

These results demonstrate that the information needed to perform the neuroimaging evaluation for endovascular therapy with comparable accuracy to advanced imaging modalities may be present in CTA, and the ability of machine learning to automate the analysis.
Sustainability Policies for the Fashion Industry: A Comparative Study of Asian and European Brands
Authors: Gupta Anupama
Published: September 2019

Sustainability has become an increasingly important value in the business of the global fashion industry. All leading brands have been taking initiatives in promoting notions of environmental and social sustainability. This article discusses the similarities and differences in sustainability-related approaches, activities and collaborations of selected fashion brands. It does so as part of a comparative study of typical Asian and European brands. The European brands analysed here tend to take a holistic, structured and goal-oriented approach towards marketing their links to environmental sustainability. In contrast, the article proposes that a typical Asian brand approach seems to be more fundamental in terms of social sustainability. This is the larger context that the global fashion industry continues, embracing the concept of sustainability in terms of how businesses should not just be concerned with profits but also with commitments to society and the environment.
The legacy of country-level experience of armed conflict on emancipative value preferences: A global cross-national study
Authors: Echeverría Nohemi , Hemmerechts Kenneth , Kavadias Dimokritos
Published: September 2019

This study examines the legacies of large-scale armed conflict on emancipative value preferences from 1946 to 2012. The multilevel analysis indicates that people living in countries with past armed conflict are more likely to endorse less emancipative value preferences. The higher the intensity and the longer the duration of the armed conflict episodes experienced in a country, the greater the impact on values. Our evidence further suggests that the mechanism through which armed conflict shapes values is by diminishing/destructing the material, intellectual, and connective resources available to a society. These findings show that armed conflict legacies are bleaker than previous studies on individual exposure to violence have suggested. Large-scale violence diminishes people’s ability and motivation to pursue a life free from domination, potentially eroding the basis of generalized tolerance and cooperation.
Experimental and numerical investigation of stiffener effects on buckling strength of composite laminates with circular cutout
Authors: Shojaee T , Mohammadi B , Madoliat R
Published: September 2019

In the notched structures, to achieve maximum buckling resistance in comparison with structural weight, the optimal design of a stiffener is very important. In this research, after a review of the existing literature, nonlinear buckling behavior of composite plates containing the cutout with three different designs of stringer was investigated. The considered stiffeners are planer, longitudinal, and ring types. The buckling experiments were carried out on the stiffened plates containing a circular notch. Moreover, to achieve an efficient prediction of the buckling in the stiffened laminate with the hole, a finite strip method is developed based on the Airy stress function and von Karman’s large deformation equations. Studies show that there is a good agreement between the postbuckling behaviors derived from developed finite strip method with experimental results. Fast convergence of the considered finite strip method compared with the finite element results shows its efficiency for prediction of buckling behavior in laminated composites. The results show that the buckling load-bearing capacities of perforated plates with a longitudinal and planer stiffener are higher compared with the other stiffener, respectively. The detailed parametric study on the effects of thickness of the plate and stiffener and opening diameter on buckling behavior was performed using experiments and modeling.
Bending strength and notched-sample fatigue life of hBN/TiC-reinforced steel 316 L: A numerical and experimental analysis
Authors: Sadooghi Ali , Payganeh Gholamhassan , Tajdari Mahdi , Dehghan Ghadikolaei Amir , Roohi Amir H
Published: September 2019

Mechanical failure under cyclic and dynamic loading has always been a concern in engineering applications. Many different properties can be achieved by adding different materials to the metal matrix nanocomposites. In this study, steel 316 L is selected as the matrix, and the additive materials of titanium carbide and hexagonal boron nitride in 3.5 wt% for each one are added as the reinforcement particles. The samples are fabricated by powder metallurgy, compacted in pressure of 410 MPa, and sintered in temperature of 1375℃ for 4 h. In addition, some pure steel 316 L samples were provided for comparison purposes. Numerical simulation of bending strength and fatigue life of the notched samples were conducted and verified with experimental tests on the mechanical parts. It appeared that the nanocomposite specimens present a higher mechanical reliability relative to the pure 316 L as a result of adding nanoparticles. Steel 316 L S–N curves of the notched samples are also obtained from numerical analysis.
Dreaming dialectically: The death and life of the Mexico City charter for the right to the city
Authors: Gerlofs Ben
Published: September 2019

This article investigates the conceptual and political history of the right to the city in Mexico City from the late 1980s to the present, focusing especially on the Mexico City Charter for the Right to the City completed and endorsed by leading political figures in 2010. By grounding this investigation in the dialectical methods of Henri Lefebvre, the article builds on roughly 12 months of ethnographic and archival fieldwork in Mexico City to argue that all such instantiations of the right to the city are bound to commit a certain violence against the idea. What the Mexico City case also suggests, however, is that such a dialectical concept is also always radically open to revivification and reimagining, as exemplified by the return of the right to the city in Mexico City’s 2017 constitution. Analysing the right to the city and its attendant politics and history from this vantage allows two crucial and underappreciated insights to emerge from this case: that the right to the city can be and sometimes is pursued under alternative auspices, and that any apparent stasis, even political death, is best considered temporary and mutable.
Early Efficacy Analysis of Cluster and Conventional Immunotherapy in Patients With Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Yu Jieqing , Zhong Nongping , Luo Qing , Liu Yuanhua , Yi Huarong , Ye Jing , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2019

Background:

Specific immunotherapy is an important immune-modifying treatment for patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). We compared the early efficacy and safety of cluster and conventional immunotherapies for patients with AR.

Methods:

One hundred forty-nine patients with persistent AR were enrolled in a randomized and open-label trial and were divided into the following 4 groups: 60 children treated conventionally, 33 children treated using the cluster schedule, 23 adults treated conventionally, and 33 adults treated using the cluster schedule. Patients in the cluster groups reached the maintenance dose within 6 weeks, while those receiving conventional therapy reached the maintenance dose within 14 weeks. Symptom scores and skin prick test scores (SPTs) were used to evaluate clinical efficacy and adverse reactions.

Results:

After buildup phase of treatment, symptom scores, and SPTs were significantly lower than those prior to treatment in each group ( P < .05). No significant differences were found in the efficacy of nasal symptoms scores among four groups ( P > .05).However, the efficacy of SPTs using conventional schedule was higher than cluster schedule in children groups (group A and B, 57.7 vs 30.2%, P = .001). Besides, the efficacy of SPTs in adults was higher than children when using the cluster treatment (group D and B, 53.0 vs 30.2%, P = .008). No severe adverse reaction occurred.

Conclusions:

Conventional and cluster immunotherapy schedules have similar efficacies, which do not vary with age; both schedules are safe and reliable. Also, SPT facilitate evaluation of clinical efficacy.
Diagnosing infection after infant open heart surgery: role of procalcitonin
Authors: Fakhri Dicky , Marwali Eva Miranda , Budiwardhana Novik , Roebiono Poppy Surwianti , Rahajoe Anna Ulfah , Caesario Michael
Published: September 2019

Background

Diagnosing infection in infants after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass remains challenging. We aimed to determine whether procalcitonin discriminates post-cardiopulmonary bypass systemic inflammatory response syndrome from bacterial infection in infants better than C-reactive protein and leukocyte count.

Method

One hundred and eight infants underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Leukocyte count, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin were measured on arrival in the intensive care unit as baseline, and repeated on postoperative day 3. Bacterial infection was defined as proven infection with a positive blood or sputum culture.

Results

Twenty-four infants had proven bacterial infection. Baseline leukocyte counts and C-reactive protein levels did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. On postoperative day 3, C-reactive protein (62 vs. 38.5 mg·L−1, p = 0.01) and procalcitonin levels (6.58 vs. 0.41 ng·mL−1, p < 0.01) were higher in patients with bacterial infection. Leukocyte counts did not differ significantly between the two groups ( p = 0.94). The area under the receiver operating curve for leukocyte count, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin was 0.49 ( p = 0.94), 0.67 ( p = 0.01), and 0.87 ( p < 0.0010), respectively. The optimal cutoff value of procalcitonin was 2.5 ng·mL−1 (sensitivity 75%, specificity 88%).

Conclusion

In infants undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, procalcitonin discriminates bacterial infection from post-cardiopulmonary bypass systemic inflammatory response syndrome better than C-reactive protein and leukocyte count.
Is a combined programme of manual therapy and exercise more effective than usual care in patients with non-specific chronic neck pain? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Domingues Lucia , Pimentel-Santos Fernando Manuel , Cruz Eduardo Brazete , Sousa Ana Cristina , Santos Ana , Cordovil Ana , Correia Anabela , Torres Laura Sa , Silva Antonio , Branco Pedro Soares , Branco Jaime Cunha
Published: September 2019

Objective:

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of a combined intervention of manual therapy and exercise (MET) versus usual care (UC), on disability, pain intensity and global perceived recovery, in patients with non-specific chronic neck pain (CNP).

Design:

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Outpatient care units.

Subjects:

Sixty-four non-specific CNP patients were randomly allocated to MET ( n = 32) or UC ( n = 32) groups.

Interventions:

Participants in the MET group received 12 sessions of mobilization and exercise, whereas the UC group received 15 sessions of usual care in physiotherapy.

Main measures:

The primary outcome was disability (Neck Disability Index). The secondary outcomes were pain intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale) and global perceived recovery (Patient Global Impression Change). Patients were assessed at baseline, three weeks, six weeks (end of treatment) and at a three-month follow-up.

Results:

Fifty-eight participants completed the study. No significant between-group difference was observed on disability and pain intensity at baseline. A significant between-group difference was observed on disability at three-week, six-week and three-month follow-up (median (P25–P75): 6 (3.25–9.81) vs. 15.5 (11.28–20.75); P < 0.001), favouring the MET group. Regarding pain intensity, a significant between-group difference was observed at six-week and three-month follow-up (median (P25–P75): 2 (1–2.51) vs. 5 (3.33–6); P < 0.001), with superiority of effect in MET group. Concerning the global perceived recovery, a significant between-group difference was observed only at the three-month follow-up ( P = 0.001), favouring the MET group.

Conclusion:

This study’s findings suggest that a combination of manual therapy and exercise is more effective than usual care on disability, pain intensity and global perceived recovery.
Blood concentrations of vitamins B1, B6, B12, C and D and folate in palliative care patients: Results of a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vollbracht Claudia , Gündling Peter W , Kraft Karin , Friesecke Iris
Published: September 2019

Objective

The main purpose of palliative care is symptom relief. Frequently, the symptoms of patients requiring palliative care are the same as common symptoms of vitamin deficiency (e.g. pain, weakness, fatigue, depression). The study aim was to investigate whether patients in palliative care are vitamin deficient.

Method

This was a monocentre cross-sectional study. Patients attending the palliative care unit of a general hospital in Germany from October 2015 to April 2016 were examined for vitamin blood concentrations and symptoms. Data were analysed using univariate analysis and bivariate correlations.

Results

Data were available from 31 patients. Vitamin D3 deficiency (<62.5 nmol/L) affected 93.5% of patients, vitamin B6 deficiency (<4.1 ng/mL) 48.4%, vitamin C deficiency (<4.5 mg/L) 45.2%, vitamin B1 deficiency (<35 µg/L) 25.8% and vitamin B12 deficiency (<193 pg/mL) 12.9%. There was a significant negative correlation between vitamin B1 ranges and pain (r = −0.384) and depression (r = −0.439) symptoms.

Conclusion

All patients showed a deficiency in at least one of the measured vitamins; 68% had concurrent deficiencies in >1 vitamin. A follow-up study using validated questionnaires and a larger sample is needed to investigate the effects of targeted vitamin supplementation on quality of life and symptom burden.
Clinical comparisons of patients with giant cell arteritis with versus without fever at onset
Authors: Zhang Yun , Wang Dongmei , Yin Yue , Fan Hongwei , Zhang Wen , Zeng Xuejun
Published: September 2019

Objective

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common systemic vasculitis in individuals aged ≥50 years. Some patients with GCA who develop fever at onset without typical ischemic manifestations may be misdiagnosed with fever of unknown origin.

Methods

In the present study, we retrospectively evaluated the clinical records of patients with GCA. Patients with and without fever at onset were compared.

Results

This study included 91 patients with GCA, 55 of whom had fever at onset. The patients with fever at onset showed a lower frequency of jaw claudication and arthralgia and a higher percentage of constitutional symptoms than patients without fever. Additionally, their laboratory results revealed a lower percentage of positive anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. Furthermore, a lower proportion of affected intracranial vessels was found in patients with fever at onset. Finally, the proportion of biopsy-positive cases was higher in patients with than without fever at onset.

Conclusions

In this study, 60.4% of patients with GCA had fever at onset. Patients in this group usually had more severe inflammation with a potentially lower risk of ischemic accidents of the central nervous system than patients without fever at onset.
Culture counts more than money: Israeli critiques of German science
Authors: Yair Gad
Published: September 2019

While economic investments and organizational reforms may support Germany’s scientific ambitions, its culture remains a significant influence on how those ambitions work themselves out. The study relied on interviews with 125 Israeli scientists and on responses of nineteen of their German collaborators to a questionnaire. Data analysis found four cultural priorities that – in the context of comparisons with Israeli scientific culture – respondents suggest cut short the potential of German science: privileging technology over meaning and insight, privileging hierarchy over creativity, privileging cosmos over chaos, and privileging German over English. Respondents suggest that these cultural priorities silence alternative points of view and censor young scientists, limit motivation and stifle imagination, preordain problem-solving orientations, and restrict communication flows. As they consider policy targets for 2020 and beyond, the new German government, foundation leaders, and scientists need to discuss those cultural challenges. The study calls for scholars in science and technology studies to pay more attention to national cultures as decisive factors in framing the limits and possibilities of science.
Un fragment de stèle inédit de Dendara
Authors: Florès Jérémie
Published: September 2019

This article studies a fragment of a stele found by Clarence Stanley Fisher in 1915 at Dendara necropolis and most probably left in situ. Nevertheless, based on a photograph kept in the archives of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, it has been pointed out that the artefact, also known under the registration number D 628, presents a cut biography and a very damaged decorated scene. Despite its poor state of preservation, two themes have been recognized in the hieroglyphic text. The first is about the management of a grain silo, the second concerns the economic role of the owner for the funerary cult of his father. In addition to a phraseological analysis based on the terms mḫr/mẖr and šnwt, taking into account different information such as archaeological data, allowed an identification of the stele owner. It appears that he was a middle-ranking official who lived during the First Intermediate Period.