bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of a Stochastic Susceptible‐Infective Epidemic Model in a Polluted Atmospheric Environment
Authors: Zhao Yu , Li Yan , Chen Qun
Published: April 2019

Atmospheric pollution is deteriorating, which has affected the evolution of respiratory disease for the exposed human worldwide. Thus, exploring the influence of air pollution on the evolution of disease transmission dynamics is a significant issue. In this article, a stochastic susceptible‐infective (SI) epidemic model in a polluted atmospheric environment is investigated. The existence and uniqueness of the global positive solution are established. In virtue of the aggregation methods and Lyapunov function, the sufficient conditions of disease extinction, persistence, and existence of the stationary distribution are established, respectively. Taking PM2.5 concentration as the air pollutant index, numerical simulations are carried out to support these results. Our results indicated that the disease transmission dynamics (extinction, persistence, and stationary distribution) are significantly associated with the environmental atmospheric pollution and fluctuation.
Factors Influencing Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA) Measurements and 5-Year Survival of Neoss Dental Implants
Authors: Andersson Peter , Pagliani Luca , Verrocchi Damiano , Volpe Stefano , Sahlin Herman , Sennerby Lars
Published: April 2019

Background. Diagnostic instruments based on resonance frequency analysis (RFA) can be utilised to assess dental implant stability during treatment and follow-up. Aim. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of patient- and implant-related factors on implant stability and the 5-year implant survival. In addition, the influence of stability (ISQ value) at placement and abutment connection on implant survival was evaluated. Materials and Methods. RFA measurements from a total of 334 consecutive patients with 745 dental implants (Neoss Ltd., Harrogate, UK) were retrospectively analysed after at least 5 years in function. Statistics were used to evaluate the influence of the different variables on implant stability and implant survival. Odds ratio calculations were performed to compare the risk for implant failure using 60, 65, 70, and 75 ISQ as threshold levels at placement and loading. Results. A total of 20 implant failures in 14 patients were noted during the 5 years of follow-up, giving an overall cumulative survival rate (CSR) of 97.3% at the implant level and 95.8% at the patient level. Gender, jaw, position, bone quality, and implant diameter had an influence on implant stability at placement. Jaw, bone quality, and implant diameter had an influence on stability after 3-4 months of healing. More failures were observed in full than in partial rehabilitations. Age, gender, jaw, position, bone quantity, bone quality, implant diameter, and implant length had no influence on implant survival. Implants with ISQ values below the threshold levels showed lower survival rates compared to implants with values above these levels. Conclusions. The present study showed a significantly higher risk for implant failure, showing an ISQ value below 70 and 75 at placement or after 3-4 months of healing. The results indicate that RFA measurements can be used to identify implants with increased risk for failure.
Manufacturers’ Green Decision Evolution Based on Multi‐Agent Modeling
Authors: Li Zhen , Zhu Hongming , Meng Qingfeng , Wu Changzhi , Du Jianguo
Published: April 2019

The development of green products is gradually becoming important due to serious ecological issues. In this study, an agent‐based model is developed to visualize and analyze the evolution of green decision‐making in the manufacturing industry. Based on this agent‐based model, the macrobehaviors of manufacturers, consumers, and products are analyzed and simulated. Our results show that, first, the manufacturing industry emerges showing a “convergence” effect. The manufacturers may overestimate the consumers’ green degree demand, but this gradually gets corrected through the mechanisms of market competition. Second, as consumer income increases, it becomes easier for manufacturers to adapt to the market’s supply and demand as impacted by the products’ green degrees, and it becomes unfavorable for them to form a monopoly in the market. Furthermore, the profit of manufacturers is mainly derived from the sales and gradually gets more influenced by the products’ green degree when the consumer income increases.
Proposal for an SDN-Like Innovative Metro-Access Optical Network Architecture
Authors: Muciaccia Tommaso , Passaro Vittorio M. N.
Published: April 2019

Today, telecommunication operators are facing an epochal challenge due to the need of higher reconfigurability, flexibility, and dynamicity for their networks. In the latest years, this necessity has been addressed by the introduction of Software-Defined Networking (SDN), mainly in the fields of data centers and core networks. The present work introduces a unified metro-access optical network architecture based on some features inspired by SDN models. The essential aim is to enable bandwidth shared among different passive optical networks (PONs) in order to achieve higher adaptability to increasingly migratory and volatile traffic patterns. Even if the present work is mainly focused on the architecture, several hints for specific implementation of the network nodes are detailed as well in order to demonstrate its feasibility. Several numerical simulations have been performed to assess the performance of the proposed solution both about physical effects and about quality of service. Bit error ratio degradation due to physical impairments has been evaluated and traffic congestion has been estimated in terms of burst loss probability and average throughput.
Extraction of Essential Oils of Rosmarinus officinalis L. by Two Different Methods: Hydrodistillation and Microwave Assisted Hydrodistillation
Authors: Elyemni Majda , Louaste Bouchra , Nechad Imane , Elkamli Taha , Bouia Abdelhak , Taleb Mustapha , Chaouch Mahdi , Eloutassi Noureddine
Published: April 2019

The extraction of essential oils is generally carried out by two main techniques: azeotropic distillation (hydrodistillation, hydrodiffusion, and steam distillation) and extraction with solvents. However, these traditional methods are a bit expensive, especially since they are extremely energy and solvent consuming. This work consists in studying two methods of extraction of the essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis L.: microwave assisted hydrodistillation (MAH) and Clevenger hydrodistillation (CH). Several parameters have been studied: the extraction time, the yield, and the chemical composition of the essential oils as well as the efficiency and cost of each procedure. The results obtained revealed that microwave-assisted hydrodistillation makes it possible to minimize the extraction time of the essential oils in comparison with conventional hydrodistillation. Thus, the same yield of essential oils is obtained for 20 minutes only with MAH while it takes 180 minutes with CH. In addition, the quality of the essential oil is improved thanks to a 1.14% increase in oxygenates. In conclusion, the MAH method offers significant advantages over conventional hydrodistillation and can therefore replace it on a pilot and industrial scale.
Ontology‐Based Representations of User Activity and Flexible Space Information: Towards an Automated Space‐Use Analysis in Buildings
Authors: Chen Xingbin , Kim Tae Wan , Chen Jiayu , Xue Bin , Jeong WoonSeong
Published: April 2019

Space‐use analysis offers quantitative and reliable references to support architects’ decision‐making regarding the planning and design of flexible spaces. To allow for automated space‐use analyses of such flexible space, it is imperative to create activity and space ontologies that offer systematic and explicit forms representing user activities and the spaces in which they occur. Therefore, this study extends the current research on activity ontologies in order to capture flexible space‐use patterns for user activities and develops a new space ontology by abstracting the information related to both flexible and nonflexible spaces. In addition, this study formalizes a framework for an automated space‐use analysis implementation process that predicts and updates flexible space utilization by integrating user activity with flexible space. This work contributes to performance‐based building design by providing a common, computer‐interpretable vocabulary for representing user activities and flexible spaces and a framework for an automated space‐use analysis implementation process that informs space utilization (i.e., a space efficiency measurement).
Inner Retinal Layer and Outer Retinal Layer Findings after Macular Hole Surgery Assessed by means of Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Marchese Alessandro , Bandello Francesco , Coppola Michele
Published: April 2019

Aim. To summarize the spectrum of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) features after full-thickness macular hole (MH) repair surgery. Methods. A PubMed engine search was carried out using the terms “Macular Hole,” “Optical Coherence Tomography,” and “Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography.” All reports published in English up to October 2018, irrespective of their publication status, were included. Tomographic signs analyzed were divided according to the involved portion of the retina in “inner retinal layers” and “external retinal layers.” Despite predominantly involving the inner retinal layers, cystoid macular edema (CME) has been treated as a separate entity. Finally, report on vessel density (VD) changes and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area modifications have been included. Results. Different clinical findings can be observed on OCT of patients who underwent MH repair surgery. There is general consent that retinal thinning involving primarily the retinal nerve fiber layer and the ganglion cell layer takes place after surgery. In the postoperative period, the outermost retinal layers get progressively restored. Persistent defects in the ellipsoid zone or in the external limiting membrane correlate with worse postoperative visual outcome. OCTA has globally demonstrated that eyes after MH closure show a reduction in macular and paramacular VD and smaller FAZ areas, compared with control or fellow eyes. Conclusion. Clinicians should be aware of the most common tomographic findings to properly manage each condition. In addition, significant advantages for the postoperative application of OCT and OCTA include noninvasiveness, rapid and simple execution, repeatability, and precise measurements.
Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used in Central Macedonia, Greece
Authors: Tsioutsiou Efthymia Eleni , Giordani Paolo , Hanlidou Effie , Biagi Marco , De Feo Vincenzo , Cornara Laura
Published: April 2019

This work provides the ethnobotanical data concerning the traditional use of medicinal plants in Macedonia region (Northern Greece), which has, up to now, been poorly investigated. The aim of the present study was to collect, analyze, and evaluate information on the use of medicinal plants among different population groups living in Central Macedonia. The study was carried out in the area of two small cities, Edessa and Naoussa, and nearby villages. The ethnobotanical data were gathered through extensive and semistructured interviews. The informants belonged to different population groups living in the study areas and were involved, at least partially, in agriculture. Together with detailed reports on each species, data were also summarized by some indices, such as Fidelity Level (FL) and Informant Consensus Factor (Fic). A group of 96 informants was interviewed and 87 plant taxa with medicinal uses were cited. Medicinal plants are used to treat a wide range of diseases, in particular ailments of the respiratory tract and skin disorders. The importance of the traditional use of plants to cure and prevent common and some uncommon diseases had been highlighted. About 55% of medicinal plants mentioned by the informants had been previously reported to be sold in Thessaloniki herbal market as traditional remedies. Medicinal uses of some endemic taxa had been reported, e.g., Satureja montana subsp. macedonica, a member of the S. montana group restricted to Northern Central Greece, Origanum dictamnus, an endemic species of Crete, and six Balkan endemics, i.e., Achillea holosericea, Digitalis lanata, Helleborus odorus subsp. cyclophyllus, Sideritis scardica, Thymus sibthorpii, and Verbascum longifolium. Several differences in Traditional Ethnobotanical Knowledge (TEK) were observed in relation to social and cultural components of the population. Only 7 species (Crataegus monogyna, Hypericum perforatum, Matricaria chamomilla, Rosa canina, Sambucus nigra, Sideritis scardica, and Tilia platyphyllos) were commonly reported by all population groups, whereas 30 out of 87 taxa (34%) were exclusively mentioned by a single group. All groups are incorporated in the local society and do not identify themselves as members of different ethnic groups, although they try to preserve their distinctiveness by keeping their traditions and dialects. Nevertheless, our data show that the knowledge regarding the medicinal plant use was rarely accompanied by preservation of linguistic diversity concerning the plant names. This work contributes to improve the knowledge on the traditional use of plants in the folk medicine of a region like Central Macedonia where different population groups live together, partially maintaining their traditions. A part of data of this paper has been presented as posted at 112° Congress of Italian Botanical Society (IPSC), Parma 20-23 September 2017.
Impact of Successful Weight Loss Maintenance on Serum Lipids and Glucose Concentrations of Previous Participants of a Weight Loss Programme in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Ayisi Addo Sandra , Nti Christiana , Vuvor Frederick , Adjimani Jonathan , Steiner-Asiedu Matilda
Published: April 2019

Background and Aim. There is a need to investigate the long-term impact of successful weight loss maintenance on blood lipids and glucose concentrations in populations within Africa, where obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) rates are increasingly becoming a public health threat. The aim of this study was to compare the serum lipid and glucose concentrations of successful and unsuccessful weight loss maintainers who previously participated in the Nutriline Weight Loss Programme (NWLP) in Accra, Ghana. Methods. 112 participants were randomly selected to participate in this cross-sectional study. Baseline and end of weight loss programme anthropometric and programmatic data were accessed via the NWLP archival database. On follow-up, anthropometric data, physical activity, dietary behaviour, serum lipid, and glucose indices were taken. Successful weight loss maintainers (SWLM) were defined as those achieving at least 5% weight loss below the baseline weight at follow-up, otherwise unsuccessful (UWLM). Results. The adjusted serum total cholesterol (TC) concentration was significantly lower for SWLM (5.17 ± 0.99 mmol/L) compared to UWLM (5.59 ± 1.06 mmol/L). Serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentrations for SWLM versus UWLM did not differ significantly and were as follows: 3.58 ± 0.92 mmol/L versus 3.87 ± 0.99 mmol/L, 1.22 ± 0.38 mmol/L versus 1.17 ± 0.32 mmol/L, 4.48 ± 0.72 mmol/L versus 4.73 ± 1.00 mmol/L, and 5.52 ± 0.39% versus 5.59 ± 0.59%, respectively. Triglyceride (TG) concentration was significantly (P<0.001) lower for SWLM (0.79 ± 0.28 mmol/L) compared to UWLM (1.17 ± 0.51 mmol/L). After adjusting for covariates, it was no longer significant. Additionally, there was no significant association between weight loss maintenance success and having a normal status for selected lipids and glucose parameters. Conclusion. SWLM had a significantly lower serum TC compared to UWLM. In addition, a greater proportion of SWLM had normal values for TC, TG, HbA1c, and LDL out of the six parameters measured although not statistically significant.
WS-5 Extract of Curcuma longa, Chaenomeles sinensis, and Zingiber officinale Contains Anti-AChE Compounds and Improves β-Amyloid-Induced Memory Impairment in Mice
Authors: Kim Ju Eun , Shrestha Abinash Chandra , Kim Hyo Shin , Ham Ha Neul , Kim Jun Hyeong , Kim Yeong Jee , Noh Yun Jeong , Kim Su Jin , Kim Dae Keun , Jo Hyung Kwon , Kim Dae Sung , Moon Kwang Hyun , Lee Jeong Ho , Jeong Kyung Ok , Leem Jae Yoon
Published: April 2019

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is linked to an extensive neuron loss via accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) as senile plaques associated with reactive astrocytes and microglial activation in the brain. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect of WS-5 ethanol extract in vitro and in vivo against Aβ-induced AD in mice and to identify the extract’s active constituents. In the present study, WS-5 exerted a significant inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that WS-5 prevented Aβ oligomerization via inhibition of Aβ1-42 aggregation. Evaluation of antioxidant activities using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) demonstrated that WS-5 possessed a high antioxidant activity, which was confirmed by measuring the total antioxidant status (TAS). Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of WS-5 were examined using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. WS-5 significantly inhibited the lipopolysaccharide–induced production of nitric oxide and two proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-6. The memory impairment in mice with Aβ-induced AD was studied using the Morris water maze and passive avoidance test. Immunohistochemistry was performed to monitor pathological changes in the hippocampus and cortex region of the mouse brain. The animal study showed that WS-5 (250 mg/kg) treatment improved learning and suppressed memory impairment as well as reduced Aβ plaque accumulation in Aβ-induced AD. HPLC analysis identified the extract’s active compounds that exert anti-AChE activity. In summary, our findings suggest that WS-5 could be applied as a natural product therapy with a focus on neuroinflammation-related neurodegenerative disorders.
Adherence to Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine Treatment among Patients with Uncomplicated Malaria in Northern Ghana
Authors: Oduro Abraham Rexford , Chatio Samuel , Beeri Paula , Anyorigiya Thomas , Baiden Rita , Adongo Philip , Akweongo Patricia
Published: April 2019

Treatment adherence has been described as the process whereby patients take medications, follow diet, and effect other lifestyle changes that relate to agreed recommendations from healthcare providers. The determinants of such treatment adherence include patient, the health condition, therapy type, socioeconomic conditions, and the healthcare system. The study examined adherence in malaria patients treated with dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine in routine clinical care in northern Ghana. The study was conducted in Navrongo Health Research Centre in the Kassena-Nankana district of northern Ghana. Patients confirmed with uncomplicated malaria were prescribed dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine in blister packs to be taken daily for three days. Follow-up visits were made on days 3 and 28 after diagnosis to collect data on adherence, drug safety and therapeutic effectiveness. During follow-up visits, in-depth interviews were conducted and the blister packs directly observed for the number of tablets remaining. The in-depth interviews documented day-by-day account of doses taken, number of tablets taken during each dose, time of each dose, reasons for any leftover or missed dose, and whether or not there was vomiting. Treatment adherence was classified as definitely nonadherent, incomplete adherence, and completely adherent. A total of 405 patients were screened; 299 were positive by rapid diagnostic testing and 216 by microscopy. The average age was 12 years and females represented 54.0%. All participants completed day 3 follow-up but 12.7% had leftover pills. Treatment adherence was 50.9% (95% CI 44.1, 57.8), 36.1% (95% CI 29.7, 42.9), and 13.0% (95% CI 8.8, 18.2) for completely adherent, incomplete adherence, and definitely nonadherent, respectively. All completely adherent patients were free of parasitemia on day 28 of follow-up. A total of 49 adverse events related to malaria symptoms were documented. Effort to improve adherence should be individualized as it is dependent on a number of factors such as the patients’ temperament, the disease, support at home, and complexity of treatment.
Research on Kinematics and Stability of a Bionic Wall-Climbing Hexapod Robot
Authors: Xu Shoulin , He Bin , Hu Heming
Published: April 2019

Wall-climbing hexapod robot as a bionic robot has become a focus for extensive research, due to a wide range of practical applications. The most contribution of this paper is to analyze the kinematics and stability of a wall-climbing hexapod robot, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the stable walking and control of the robot on the wall. Firstly, the kinematics model of the wall-climbing hexapod robot is established based on the D-H method. Then, in order to keep the robot from tipping over, the stability of the wall-climbing hexapod robot is analyzed in depth, obtaining the critical condition which makes the robot to tip over. Afterward, the kinematics simulation of the wall-climbing hexapod robot is operated to analyze motion performances. Finally, the experiments are used to validate the proposed kinematics model and stability. The experimental results show that the kinematics model and stability condition of the wall-climbing hexapod robot are correct.
Modeling the Morning Commute Problem in a Bottleneck Model Based on Personal Perception
Authors: Guo Xiao , Sun Huijun
Published: April 2019

This paper studies the travel behavior of travelers who drive from the living area through the highway to the work area during the morning rush hours. The bottleneck model based on personal perception travel behavior has been investigated. Based on their willingness to arrive early, travelers can be divided into two categories: active travelers and negative travelers. Three possible situations have been considered based on travelers’ personal perception. Travelers’ travel choice behaviors are analyzed in detail and equilibrium is achieved with these three situations. The numerical examples show that the departure time choice of the travelers is related not only to the proportion of each type of travelers, but also to personal perceived size.
Visual and Auditory fMRI Paradigms for Presurgical Language Mapping: Convergent Validity and Relationship to Individual Variables
Authors: Omisade Antonina , O’Grady Christopher B. , Schmidt Matthias H. , Fisk John D.
Published: April 2019

Functional MRI (fMRI) has emerged as a safe alternative to invasive procedures for determining hemispheric language dominance prior to neurosurgery. Despite this, there are currently no standardized fMRI protocols that have been explored in healthy controls to determine the influence of individual patient variables on the results, which poses challenges in clinical interpretation of ambiguous findings in patient populations. In addition, most fMRI protocols are not suitable for individuals with visual or intellectual disabilities (IQ<70). In the current study, 61 healthy adults (ages: 18-74 years) completed two fMRI paradigms for language mapping. One paradigm used visually based stimuli and has shown good face validity to date in our center. The second paradigm used auditory stimuli presented at slowed speed and was designed for individuals with visual or cognitive dysfunction but has not yet been used clinically. The paradigms demonstrated 97% agreement in classifying individuals as left-hemisphere, right-hemisphere, and bilaterally dominant. Cases that were classified differently showed bilateral dominance in response to either paradigm. Dominance classification rates for right- and left-handed individuals were largely in keeping with published data. Within the left-handed group, IQ and education were positively correlated with laterality indices generated by both paradigms (r values range: 0.44-0.95, p<0.01), suggesting that individuals with higher IQ and formal education were more likely to be classified as left-hemisphere dominant in the current sample. This study will help improve clinical interpretation of language fMRI maps by identifying factors that might impact results (like IQ). It also offers an alternative paradigm to make this procedure more accessible to a broader range of patients. Future studies will replicate results with a sample of patients with epilepsy across a broad range of intellectual abilities.
Transfusional Malaria and Associated Factors at the National Blood Transfusion Center of Niamey-Niger
Authors: Iro Aminata , Lamine Moustapha Mahamane , Lazoumar Ramatoulaye Hamidou , Alkassoum Ibrahim , Maman Daou , Laouali Harouna Amadou Mahaman , Doutchi Mahamadou , Maiguizo Seydou , Laminou Ibrahim Maman
Published: April 2019

Summary.Problem. Transfusional malaria is an accidental transmission ofPlasmodiumvia a blood transfusion. Its magnitude is underestimated and very little data on the assessment of this risk are available in Niger.Objective. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of plasmodial infection of blood bags at the National Blood Transfusion Center of Niamey (NBTC).Methodology. A cross-sectional study to diagnosePlasmodiuminfection by microscopy and Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) was carried out during the rainy season (September to November 2015). Blood grouping was performed by the BETH-VINCENT technique.Results. One thousand three hundred and fifty-seven (1357) blood bags were collected. One hundred and fifty-seven (11.6%) of the donors were infected withPlasmodiumby microscopy and 2.4% (9/369) by rapid diagnostic test. All infections were withP. falciparum(100%). The mean parasite density was 197 parasites/μL (SD=281; [80: 2000]). There were no significant differences in infection prevalence between the ABO blood groups (p=0.3) or the rhesus positivity (p=08). There is also no significant difference in temporal (p=0.1) and spatial (p=0.6) distribution.Conclusion. The transmission of transfusional malaria during the rainy season is a fact in Niger. Such risks were independent of the ABO blood type and positivity for the rhesus antigen. Pretransfusion diagnosis or posttransfusion therapy should be instituted to prevent it.
Effects of Ivabradine on Residual Myocardial Ischemia after PCI Evaluated by Stress Echocardiography
Authors: Calcagno Simone , Infusino Fabio , Dettori Olga , Taccheri Temistocle , Bruno Pasqualina , Maestrini Viviana , Sardella Gennaro , Mancone Massimo , Fedele Francesco
Published: April 2019

Background. Residual angina after PCI is a frequently occurring disease. Ivabradine improves symptoms but its role in patients without left ventricular systolic dysfunction is still unclear. The aim was to quantify the effects of ivabradine in terms of MVO2 indicators and diastolic function. Methods. Twenty-eight consecutive patients with residual angina after PCI were randomized to ivabradine 5 mg twice/day (IG) or standard therapy (CG). All patients performed a stress echocardiography at the enrollment and after 30 days. MVO2 was estimated from double product (DP) and triple product (TP) integrating DP with ejection time (ET). Diastolic function was evaluated determining E and A waves, E′ measurements, and E/E′ ratio both at rest and at the peak of exercise. Results. The exercise time was longer in IG 9′49″ ± 48″ vs 8′09″ ± 59″ in CG (p=0.0001), reaching a greater workload (IG 139.3 ± 13.4 vs CG 118.7 ± 19.6 Watts; p=0.003). MVO2 expressed with DP and TP was significantly higher in IG (DP: IG 24194 ± 2697 vs CG 20358 ± 4671.8, p=0.01; TP: IG 17239 ± 4710 vs CG 12206 ± 4413, p=0.007). At peak exercise, the ET was diminished in IG than CG. The analysis of diastolic function after the exercise revealed an increase of E and A waves, without difference in the E/A ratio. The E′ wave was higher in IG than CG, and in the same group, the differences between baseline and peak exercise were greater (∆E′3.14 ± 0.7 vs 2.4 ± 1.13, p=0.047). The E/E′ ratio was reduced in patients treated with ivabradine (IG 10.2 ± 2.0 vs CG 7.9 ± 1.6, p=0.002). Conclusions. Ivabradine seems to produce a significant improvement of ischemic threshold, chronotropic reserve, and diastolic function.
A Case of a 50-Year-Old Woman with Typical Fabry Disease Who Showed Serial Electrocardiographic and Echocardiographic Changes over a 17-Year Period
Authors: Lee Su Nam , Kim Gee-Hee , Yoo Ki-Dong
Published: April 2019

Fabry disease (FD) is a progressive, X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency ofα-galactosidase A activity. Affected individuals accumulate globotriaosylceramide and glycosphingolipids in the lysosomes and cytoplasm of cells throughout the body, leading to major organ failure and premature death. Cardiac involvement includes left ventricular hypertrophy, arrhythmia, endothelial dysfunction at vascular wall, and cardiomyopathy. The diagnosis of FD can be difficult and there is often a long lag time between symptoms and diagnosis. Here, we present a case of a 50-year-old woman with typical Fabry disease who showed serial electrocardiographic and echocardiographic changes over 17 years prior to diagnosis with Fabry disease.
The Impact of Heat on Health and Productivity among Maize Farmers in a Tropical Climate Area
Authors: Sadiq Lukman Shiji , Hashim Zailina , Osman Malina
Published: April 2019

Background. Heat stress disorders may cause negative health outcome and subsequent productivity reduction especially in those who work under direct sunlight for an extended number of hours. Objective. This study assessed the impact of heat on the health and productivity among maize farmers in a hot tropical country. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 maize farmers, randomly selected across Gombe province, Nigeria. The wet bulb globe temperature monitor (WBGT) Model QuesTemp036 was used in determining the heat index. Health was determined using a validated questionnaire, while productivity was determined by recording work output based on the number of ridges cultivated during the working hours. Results. The farms recorded mean heat index with standard deviation (SD) of 31.56 (2.19) and 34.08 (1.54) in the hours of 9 am to 12 pm and 12–3 pm respectively, which exceeded the threshold level set by the ACGIH. Heavy sweating (93.2%), tiredness (48.5%), dizziness (34.1%), and headache (40.4%) were experienced by the respondents almost on daily basis. The finding further showed a significant difference in the farmers’ productivity during the three time duration of the work day (p<0.001). The productivity was significantly higher between the hours of 6–9 am (p<0.001) and 12–3 pm (p<0.001), compared to the hours of 9 am to 12 pm (p<0.001). The factors that significantly predict the productivity outcome include temperature (p<0.001), gender (p<0.001), age (p=0.033), and BMI (p=0.008). Conclusion. The farmers were frequently experiencing heat exhaustion which decreased their productivity.
Reduced Aortic Distensibility is Associated With Higher Aorto‐Carotid Wave Transmission and Central Aortic Systolic Pressure in Young Adults After Coarctation Repair
Authors: Kowalski Remi , Lee Melissa G. Y. , Doyle Lex W. , Cheong Jeanie L. Y. , Smolich Joseph J. , d'Udekem Yves , Mynard Jonathan P. , Cheung Michael M. H. , Carse Elizabeth , Doyle Lex W. , Hayes Marie , McDonald Marion , Opie Gillian , Roberts Gehan , Watkins Andrew
Published: March 2019

Background

The long‐term prognosis of patients with repaired aortic coarctation is characterized by high rates of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease related to hypertension, the basis of which remains unclear. To define potential underlying mechanisms, we investigated aortic and carotid arterial biomechanics and wave dynamics, and determinants of aortic systolic blood pressure, in young adults after coarctation repair.

Methods and Results

Aortic arch and carotid biomechanics, wave intensity and wave power, and central aortic blood pressure, were derived from echocardiography and brachial blood pressure in 43 young adults after coarctation repair and 42 controls. Coarctation subjects had higher brachial and central systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.04), while aortic compliance was lower and characteristic impedance (Z
c
) higher. Although carotid intima‐media thickness was higher (
P
<0.001), carotid biomechanics were no different. Carotid forward compression wave power was higher and was negatively correlated with aortic compliance (
R
2
=0.42,
P
<0.001) and distensibility (
R
2
=0.37,
P
=0.001) in coarctation subjects. Aortic wave power and wave reflection indices were no different in control and coarctation patients, but coarctation patients with elevated aortic Z
c
had greater aorto‐carotid transmission of forward compression wave power (
P
=0.006). Aortic distensibility was the only independent predictor of central aortic systolic blood pressure on multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Young adults following coarctation repair had a less compliant aorta, but no change in carotid biomechanics. Reduced aortic distensibility was related to greater transmission of aortic forward wave energy into the carotid artery and higher central aortic systolic blood pressure. These findings suggest that reduced aortic distensibility may contribute to later cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease after coarctation repair.
The enigmatic Marmorkrebs (marbled crayfish) is the parthenogenetic form of Procambarus fallax (Hagen, 1870)
Authors: Martin Peer , Dorn Nathan J. , Kawai Tadashi , van der Heiden Craig , Scholtz Gerhard
Published: April 2019

A mysterious parthenogenetic cambarid crayfish (the Marmorkrebs) has been spreading across the globe for the past decade. We compare this crayfish directly to two other cambarids, Procambarus fallax and P. alleni, that have been suggested to be related or even identical to the Marmorkrebs. Using external morphology and sequences of two mitochondrial genes we show clear correspondences between Marmorkrebs and P. fallax, a species found natively throughout peninsular Florida, USA. Based on these congruent results we suggest that the Marmorkrebs is the parthenogenetic form of P. fallax. This finding has potential evolutionary and ecological implications at several levels. The Marmorkrebs might be a type of geographical parthenogenesis, but a natural population in the wild is so far unknown. Furthermore, challenges arise in regard to the respective species status of the Marmorkrebs. Taxonomically we suggest that the Marmorkrebs is treated as ‘parthenogenetic form’ of P. fallax. Last but not least, the identity of this animal and its ecology has an impact for considering potential spread and effects of this species across the globe.
Physical Evaluation of GPM DPR Single- and Dual-Wavelength Algorithms
Authors: Liao Liang , Meneghini Robert
Published: April 2019

A physical evaluation of the rain profiling retrieval algorithms for the Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) on board the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Core Observatory satellite is carried out by applying them to the hydrometeor profiles generated from measured raindrop size distributions (DSD). The DSD-simulated radar profiles are used as input to the algorithms, and their estimates of hydrometeors’ parameters are compared with the same quantities derived directly from the DSD data (or truth). The retrieval accuracy is assessed by the degree to which the estimates agree with the truth. To check the validity and robustness of the retrievals, the profiles are constructed for cases ranging from fully correlated (or uniform) to totally uncorrelated DSDs along the columns. Investigation into the sensitivity of the retrieval results to the model assumptions is made to characterize retrieval uncertainties and identify error sources. Comparisons between the single- and dual-wavelength algorithm performance are carried out with either a single- or dual-wavelength constraint of the path integral or differential path integral attenuation. The results suggest that the DPR dual-wavelength algorithm generally provides accurate range-profiled estimates of rainfall rate and mass-weighted diameter with the dual-wavelength estimates superior in accuracy to those from the single-wavelength retrievals.
C-Reactive Protein and Ferritin Are Associated With Organ Dysfunction and Mortality in Hospitalized Children
Authors: Horvat Christopher M. , Bell Jamie , Kantawala Sajel , Au Alicia K. , Clark Robert S. B. , Carcillo Joseph A.
Published: April 2019

Our objective was to determine if C-reactive protein (CRP) and ferritin values alone and in combination are associated with mortality among hospitalized children. All hospitalized patients at our institution with a CRP or ferritin assay in 2015 and 2016 were included. Area under the receiver operating curves (AUROC) were examined, optimal cut-points determined, and patients were stratified into low-, intermediate-, or high-risk groups based on elevation of zero, one, or both biomarkers. A total of 14 928 CRP and 653 ferritin values were obtained, with both obtained for 172 patients. AUROC for maximum CRP value was 0.76 (0.68-0.85) with a cut-point of 7.1 mg/dL for in-hospital mortality and 0.90 (0.83-0.98) for maximum ferritin with a cut-point of 373 ng/mL. Elevation of both ferritin and CRP was associated with the highest inpatient mortality (21.7%) and greatest organ dysfunction, followed by either biomarker alone. Additional prospective study of these biomarkers in combination is warranted.
Utilization of hydrogen as clean energy resource in chlor-alkali process
Authors: Khasawneh Hussam , Saidan Motasem N , Al-Addous Mohammad
Published: April 2019

Hydrogen produced from chlor-alkali plants in Jordan is typically wasted and vented to the atmosphere. If it is recovered and utilized then it can viably play a significant role for process heat on site. This study demonstrates how cleaner production can be applied to the chlor-alkali industry, with focus on utilization of hydrogen as energy resource. A chlor-alkali based on membrane cell process, in northern part of Jordan, was examined as a case of reusing excess hydrogen produced. In the baseline scenario, 47% of produced hydrogen was used in HCl production, 10% in controlling pressure difference, and the remainder was not used (i.e. 43% of hydrogen was vented into the atmosphere). The proposed cleaner production option was to install a hydrogen boiler next to the existing fuel boiler and utilize the hydrogen to generate steam for on-site process heating purposes. The effectiveness of this cleaner production option was discussed in relation to its technical and environmental feasibility. On-site utilization of hydrogen was found to provide 34% of the total steam needed at the full capacity. This in return yields a saving percentage of around 33.37% and a payback period of 0.947 year. From environmental perspective, theoretically, carbon dioxide emission reductions can be up to 1810 tons based on the chlor-alkali productions pattern for 24 consecutive months.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Reynolds Gretchen O. , Saint-Hilaire Marie , Thomas Cathi A. , Barlow David H. , Cronin-Golomb Alice
Published: April 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor symptoms, but nonmotor symptoms also significantly impair daily functioning and reduce quality of life. Anxiety is prevalent and debilitating in PD, but remains understudied and undertreated. Much affective research in PD focuses on depression rather than anxiety, and as such, there are no evidence-based treatments for anxiety in this population. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown promise for treating depression in PD and may be efficacious for anxiety. This exploratory study implemented a multiple-baseline single-case experimental design to evaluate the utility and feasibility of CBT for individuals with PD who also met criteria for a DSM-5 anxiety disorder ( n = 9). Participants were randomized to a 2-, 4-, or 6-week baseline phase, followed by 12 CBT sessions, and two post treatment assessments (immediately post treatment and 6-week follow-up). Multiple outcome measures of anxiety and depression were administered weekly during baseline and intervention. Weekly CBT sessions were conducted in-person ( n = 5) or via secure videoconferencing ( n = 4). At post treatment, seven of the nine participants showed significant reductions in anxiety and/or depression, with changes functionally related to treatment and most improvements maintained at 6-week follow-up. Effects of CBT on secondary outcomes varied across participants, with preliminary evidence for reduction in fear of falling. Adherence and retention were high, as were treatment satisfaction and acceptability. The findings of this pilot study provide preliminary evidence for the utility of CBT as a feasible treatment for anxiety and comorbid depressive symptoms in PD and highlight the potential of telehealth interventions for mood in this population.
Spitting in the Salad: Minor Rebellion as Institutional Agency
Authors: Välikangas Liisa , Carlsen Arne
Published: April 2019

How can a desire for rebellion drive institutional agency, and how is such desire produced? In this paper, we develop a theory of minor rebellion as a form of institutional agency. Drawing from the work of Deleuze and Guattari as well as from notions of social inquiry and the sociology of punk, we qualify and illustrate minor rebellion as a lived-in field of desire and engagement that involves deterritorializing of practice in the institutional field. Three sets of processes are involved: (i) minor world-making, through establishing the aesthetics and relations of an outsider social network within a major field, including the enactment of cultural frames of revolt and radicalism; (ii) minor creating, through constructing and experimenting with terms, concepts, and technology that somehow challenge hegemony from within; and (iii) minor inquiring, through problematizing social purposes and the related experiential surfacing of the desirable new. Minor rebellion suggests a new solution to the paradox of embedded agency by describing institutional agency as shuttling between political contest and open-ended social inquiry, involving anti-sentiments, but also being for something. The paper also contributes to recasting institutional agency as a process resulting from emergent collective action rather than preceding it. To illustrate our theorizing, we describe the emergence of Robin Hood Asset Management, a Finnish activist hedge fund. At the end of the paper we discuss how minor rebellion raises new questions about the multiplicities and eventness of desiring in institutional agency.
Cementing the Stepfamily? Biological and Stepparents’ Relationship Satisfaction After the Birth of a Common Child in Stepfamilies
Authors: Ivanova Katya , Balbo Nicoletta
Published: April 2019

This article studies the relationship between having a common child in stepfamilies and partners’ relationship satisfaction. Previous works have primarily looked at children’s adjustment in stepfamilies and have cautioned against seeing a common offspring as a way to “cement” the partnership because the addition of a shared child does not benefit the child from an earlier union. We used seven waves of the German “Panel Analysis of Intimate Relationships and Family Dynamics” to examine the relationship satisfaction of partners in a stepfamily and its association with the potential birth of a common child. After controlling for initial relationship satisfaction, we see that having a common child is linked to higher satisfaction over time. Interestingly, for those whose common child is between 1 and 3 years old, we saw temporarily lower relationship satisfaction, which was less pronounced for the partner who was a stepparent in the context of the union.
Density graded polyethylene foams: Effect of processing conditions on mechanical properties
Authors: Cusson E , Akbarzadeh AH , Therriault D , Rodrigue D
Published: April 2019

Uniform foams (UF) and density graded foams (DGF) were produced by using similar or different temperatures on both sides of a compression molding system. The samples were produced using linear low density polyethylene as the matrix and activated azodicarbonamide as the chemical blowing agent. Morphological properties of the produced samples were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy to relate them to their mechanical properties. In particular, flexural and impact properties are reported for samples produced under a range of temperatures (140–200°C) and blowing agent concentration (0.7–1.0 wt%). The experimental results showed that a significant difference can be obtained in flexural modulus (up to 17%) and impact strength (up to 48%) depending on the side the stress is applied on. In all cases, the DGF showed better mechanical responses than UF of similar relative density for the range of conditions tested.
A theory of venturing: A critical realist explanation of why my father is not like Richard Branson
Authors: Galloway Laura , Kapasi Isla , Wimalasena Lakshman
Published: April 2019

This article presents a theory of venturing using a critical realist approach. Venturing is presented as an outcome of reflexive engagement between individuals and circumstances, where opportunity is perceived in relation to some idiosyncratically defined value. Traditionally, venturing has been considered as necessarily involving financial value orientation. Removing the primacy of financial ambitions affords better explanation of real-life business activity. Venturing is presented also as temporally informed and informing through a lifetime, and thus it influences ongoing work choices, including further venturing. The benefits to theory and practice are outlined, including informing support of disparate venturing and of entrepreneurship as a specific type.
Clinical features and treatment of patients with lung adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis
Authors: Wang Di , Luo Yang , Shen Di , Yang Lin , Liu Hui-Ying , Che Yi-Qun
Published: April 2019

Background:

Bone marrow metastasis occurs in lung adenocarcinoma patients with a poor prognosis due to the late course and lack of definitive treatments, although reports on this are limited. This study analyzed the clinical manifestation, laboratory examination, treatment, and prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis.

Methods:

All patients were confirmed to have bone marrow infiltration by bone marrow aspiration. The clinical data of 12 patients with lung adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis were analyzed retrospectively. The prognostic factors were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier statistics.

Results:

The common biomarker abnormalities in 12 patients were elevated carcinoembryonic antigen in 12 cases (100%), elevated lactate dehydrogenase in 9 cases (75%), increased alkaline phosphatase and anemia in 8 cases each (66.7%), and thrombocytopenia in 4 cases (33.3%). After diagnosis of bone marrow metastasis, 5 patients were treated with platinum-based chemotherapy, 3 patients received chemotherapy and targeted drug tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy, 2 patients received simple TKI therapy, and 2 patients received only best supportive care (BSC) therapy. The median duration of survival after the diagnosis of bone marrow involvement was 422 days. The survival time of patients receiving TKI therapy after bone marrow metastasis was significantly better than that of patients receiving only BSC and chemotherapy (χ2=4.636, P=0.031).

Conclusions:

The survival period of patients with lung adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis is short, and targeted drug TKI treatment can prolong the survival time for patients with EGFR mutation–carrying lung adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis.