bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Potassium Element Content and Crystal Form of Ammonium Tetramolybdate and Reduction Conditions on Properties of Molybdenum Powder
Authors: Chen Yan-Fang , Xie Jing-Pei , Ma Dou-Qin
Published: August 2020

As the raw material for producing molybdenum products, the quality of molybdenum powder such as purity, microstructure, particle size and distribution, has great influence on the microstructure of molybdenum products, which will affect its performance. In this study, the effect of potassium
element content and crystal form of ammonium tetramolybdate and reduction conditions on the properties of molybdenum powder was studied. The results show that under the same reduction conditions, the particle size of molybdenum powder obtained by the reduction of high potassium ammonium tetramebolybdate
is larger than that obtained by the reduction of low potassium ammonium tetramebolybdate. The particle size distribution of molybdenum powder obtained by the reduction of ammonium tetramebolybdate with mixed crystal form (α-type and β-type) is wider, while that obtained
by the reduction of ammonium tetramebolybdate with single crystal form (β-type) is narrower and the particle size is more uniform. The higher the reduction temperature is and the lower the hydrogen flow rate is, the larger the particle size of molybdenum powder will be. The agglomeration
degree of molybdenum prepared by β-type ammonium tetramolybdate is lighter than that prepared by ammonium tetramolybdate with mixed crystal form (α-type and β-type), and its sieving rate is higher.
Preparation of Microbubble Contrast Material of Sulfhydryl-Maleimide Group and Its Application in Ultrasound Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Juan , Zhu Wenbin , Chen Hongyan , Lin Ying , Li Xueqin
Published: August 2020

In this study, an ultrasound microbubble contrast agent with integrin αvβ3 as the target was prepared. It was used for the target-finding diagnosis of breast cancer cells. The sulfhydryl group of iRGD peptide and the maleimide group of DSPE-PEG2000 Maleimides
were connected by a thin-film hydration method to obtain a new type of ultrasound microbubble contrast agent (iRGD-DSM). First, a particle size analyzer and an optical microscope were used to characterize the iRGD-DSM. Then, the mouse breast cancer cell 4T1 was used for breast cancer ultrasound
diagnosis by in vitro culture, and the binding of the contrast agent to the cells was analyzed. Also, quantitative analysis was performed by flow cytometry. The test results showed that an iRGD peptide, iRGD/DSPE-P2000, was obtained based on the chemical coupling of sulfhydryl-maleimide
groups. In terms of average particle size, microbubble distribution, and concentration, the iRGD-DSM contrast agent prepared in this study was similar to conventional microbubble contrast agents. Also, when the DSPC, DSPEPEG, iRGD/DSPE-P2000 molar ratio is 36:3:1, higher peptide content can
be obtained. Dynamic/static specific targeting of vascular endothelial cells (bEND.3) adhesion test confirmed that iRGD-DSM contrast agent can be firmly combined with bEND.3. In the target-finding test of breast cancer cells 4T1, the ultrasound microbubble contrast agent proposed based on
this study had obvious binding imaging with breast cancer cells 4T1. In numerical analysis, the binding rate of the contrast agent to 4T1 cells reached (95.75 ± 1.43)%. Therefore, it was confirmed that the ultrasound microbubble contrast agent iRGD-DSM with integrin αvβ3
as a target has certain in vitro targeting ability for breast cancer diagnosis.
Preparation of Hydroxyapatite/Silk Fibroin Composite and Its Adoption in Posterolateral Spinal Fusion of Rats
Authors: Yang Yu , Tong Changgui , Liang Xuegang , Zou Huanwen , Guan Kai
Published: August 2020

Hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin (HAp/SF) composite was prepared and applied to the posterolateral spinal fusion model in rats to observe the effect of bone fusion. Method: Calcium chloride, diammonium phosphate, SF, and polyvinyl alcohol were used as raw materials, HAp/SF composites
were prepared by chemical precipitation. The microstructure of the composite, crystal phase composition, and chemical structure were analyzed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR Spectrometer). Through the
cultivation of osteoblasts MC3T3-E1 in vitro, the adhesion and proliferation (A&P) of cells on the face of materials were investigated. Thereby, the biocompatibility of the material was characterized. HAp/SF material was applied to the rat posterolateral spinal fusion model. The
osteogenesis and spinal fusion were evaluated by the imaging observation, histological observation and manual palpation. The results showed that the rod-shaped HAp with uniform size and high purity was obtained, with a diameter of 20∼40 nm and a length of 200∼500 nm, similar to the
apatite crystal in natural bone tissue (BT). In composite materials, a spatial network structure was formed by the interweaving of the SF fibers, and HAp was deposited on the face of the SF or in the middle of its network structure. In the obtained HAp/SF materials, the calcium ions of HAp
and the carbonyl groups of SF were used to form thermally stable complexes through strong chemical bonds. Besides, SF was a template for the directional induction of HAp crystal growth, and the growth of HAp crystal along the C axis was regulated by SF. The growth direction was parallel
to the long axis of SF fibers, and was consistent with the structure of apatite crystals deposited on the face of collagen fibers in natural BT. The results of cell culture in vitro showed that: after comparison with the control group (CG) with pure Hap, the adhesion ability of cells
to HAp/SF material was significantly improved. The proliferation capacity of bone artificial bone (BAM) material and HAp/SF material was also significantly improved. The nuclear and skeletal staining results of MC3T3-E1 cells on the face of three groups of materials (HAp, BAM and HAp/SF) were
combined, and the results also indicated that BAM and HAp/SF materials had good ability to promote cell A&P. The results of posterolateral spinal fusion in rats showed that HAp/SF materials group palpated the posterolateral spine for fusion. The formation of new BT on the posterolateral
side of the spine was revealed by the Micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) examination. In conclusion, HAp/SF composite had good osteoblastic compatibility and can achieve good spinal fusion effect.
Preparation of Graphene Composite and Its Application in the Detection of Tumor Markers
Authors: Zhang Beiguang , Wang Jialin , Ping Li , Zhong Yanfa , Li Fangzhi
Published: August 2020

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor with high mutation rate of K-ras oncogene. Therefore, a material capable of detecting the expression of K-ras oncogene was prepared, and it was expected to realize the early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), as a
new carbon nanomaterial, has good optical stability and low toxicity biocompatibility. However, pure GQDs has the defect of low quantum yield, which limits its application in ultra-sensitive detection. To enhance quantum yield of GQDs, nitrogen atoms were introduced into GQDs to obtain nitrogen-doped
GQDs (N-GQDs). Compared with the unalloyed GQDs, the electrochemical luminescence (ECL) efficiency of the doped N-GQDs was improved greatly. Through the analysis of its ECL mechanism, the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was adopted as the connecting medium to adjust the distance between the GQDs
and Aurum nanoparticles (AuNPs). Based on the energy transfer between GQDs and AuNPs, the change of ECL signal of GQDs was controlled. On the basis of this theory, N-GQDs@AuNPs-ssDNA composite was constructed, its morphology and chemical composition were characterized by various means, and
its ECL properties were analyzed. Ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results showed that the graphene composite N-GQDs@AuNPs was successfully prepared. UV-Vis spectroscopy showed that the
probe DNA was connected to AuNPs, which indicated that the production of N-GQDs@AuNPs-ssDNA was successfully realized. N-GQDs/AUNPs-ssDNA and target K-ras DNA were incubated at 37 C for 1 h to achieve DNA double-stranded hybridization. The results showed that the graphene composites prepared
in this study could be used to quantitatively determine the target K-ras tumor markers.
Hg(II) Analysis Using Poly(cysteine)-rGO Electrode
Authors: Feminus J. Jency , Deepa P. N.
Published: August 2020

In the present work, we have developed a sensitive platform for the selective determination of Hg(II) ions based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) electrode modified with poly cysteine (Poly-Cys). The Poly-Cys/rGO modified electrode was characterised by SEM, ATR-IR and its electrochemical
behaviour was investigated through cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. The synergistic effect of rGO and poly-cysteine favoured the complexation of Hg(II) ions onto the surface of the modified electrode. The ions were then anodically stripped and the corresponding voltammograms
recorded. The process of complexation followed by stripping was repeated with increasing concentrations of the metal ion. The linear range for the electrochemical determination of Hg(II) using the modified electrode was found to be from 0.05 to 2.7 μM with a detection limit of 0.006
μM. In addition, the electrode also exhibited good stability with negligible sensitivity towards interfering metal ions. The analytical applicability of the modified electrode was investigated by carrying out mercury determination in water samples obtained from various sources.
Electrochemical Detection of Epinephrine at Organic Conducting Polymers Electrodes
Authors: Erdoğdu Gamze
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a rapid and sensitive modified electrode for the determination of Epinephrine (EP) is proposed. In this study, active compound EP was determined from commercial drug form based on electrochemical oxidation properties at various electrodes by voltammetric methods. Electrodes
modified by the electrodeposition of conducting organic polymers such as poly(3-methylthiophene, PMT), polypyrrole (PPY) and polyaniline (PAN) were used as chemical sensors for voltammetric analysis and flow injection detection of EP. The electrochemical behavior of EP at conducting polymer
electrodes was compared and the effects on behavior of electrolyte type and its pH and the film thickness were systematically examined. The results showed that the proposed modified surface catalyzes the oxidation of EP. Electrocatalytic efficiency decreases in order of PMT > PPY > PAN.
Voltammetric peak positions were affected by the nature of the electrolyte and its pH. Also, the effect of increasing film thickness was to observe increased peak heights for oxidation potential of EP. The best results for the determination of EP were obtained by DPV in Na2SO4
(pH 2.0) and PMT electrodes. Polymer coated electrodes were also used in an amperometric detector for flow injection analysis of EP. The responses of the polymer electrode were 5–15 times larger as compared to those of bare platinum. PMT showed improved performance as an amperometric
detector for flow injection analysis systems over other types of polymer electrodes. Detection limits as low as 1× 10–9 M were achieved using the PMT, compared to 1 × 10–6 M using platinum electrodes.
Electrical Conductivity and Dielectric Properties of Un-Irradiated and γ-Irradiated PVA/NaAlg/LiClO4 Polymer Films
Authors: Suresha S. , Harish B. M. , Avinash B. S. , Chaturmukha V. S. , Jayanna H. S. , Lamani Ashok R.
Published: August 2020

In the recent work effects of ϒ-irradiation (100 kGy) subject area on the conductivity and dielectric properties of PVA/NaAlg/LiClO4 (45; 45; 10 weight%) films have been investigated. Polymer complex films were made individually by using solution casting and the changes
in the individuals can be distinguished of films induced by ϒ-irradiation (100 kGy) was examined. These films were submitted to different characterizations such as XRD, FTIR and SEM. XRD studies reveal that the nature of the crystalline is increasing for irradiated polymer films. FTIR
peak assignments show ϒ-irradiated on films the peak gets shifted, modify its intensity, strengthening of hydrogen bonds. The irradiation forms a cross linking between polymer films. SEM micrograph shows that soft and uniform layer is removed during ϒ-irradiation. Dielectric studies
for ϒ-irradiated films were analyzed at high and low frequency region shows in that respect is no variation in the dielectric constant and has the same answer from 2.7–14.6 MHz and then increase up to 10 MHz after this it decreases with increase in frequency. The AC conductivity
of the ϒ-irradiated polymer films were found to be increased with the increment of frequency.
Selective Voltammetric Detection of Dopamine in the Presence of Ascorbic Acid at Poly(p-methoxyphenol)-Modified Electrode
Authors: Erdoğdu Gamze
Published: August 2020

A gold electrode was modified with electropolymerized films of p-methoxyphenol by its oxidative polymerization from an alkaline solution by cyclic voltammetry. The modified electrode was then used to determine dopamine (DA) in the presence of a high concentration of ascorbic
acid (AA) by differential pulse voltammetry. The peak positions as well as relative sensitivity DA/AA were affected by the potential window used for the polymerization. For polymerization between 0 and 1.0 V, the peak potentials recorded in a phosphate buffer solution (pH = 7.2) were 516 and
312 mV versus Ag/AgCl for DA and AA, respectively. In addition to the effects of pH and the type of electrolyte on the linearity range and detection limit are investigated. The detection limit for 3s-test is 0.1 nM. The high selectivity and sensitivity for DA was found to be due to
charge discrimination/analyte accumulation.
Design and Development of a Low-Cost Milk Analyzer
Authors: Naskar Hemanta , Das Siuli
Published: August 2020

Milk analyzer is a very useful instrument in the dairy industry. Feed is the principle cause of variation in the composition of fat, although several other factors are believed to influence. The fat concentration is most sensitive to dietary changes, followed by protein concentration;
whereas the concentration of lactose, vitamins, Solid not fat (SNF), salts and other solid constituents do not respond to the dietary alterations. Analyzing the percentage of fat, SNF, protein and lactose are very important. There are two different type of milk analyzers are reported in this
work. Both are low cost and user friendly milk analyzer. One is a milk analyzer using a constant phase element (CPE) sensor and it is a contact type. The other one is milk analyzer using ultrasound wave. The ultrasonic sensor is a noncontact type sensor. When ultrasound wave passed through
the milk sample it is attenuated. The signal conditioning circuit is designed and the performance of milk analyzer is studied in this work. These two milk analyzers are inexpensive and easy to handle.
Power-Delay Trade-Offs in Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor Circuits Using Self and Optimum Bulk Control
Authors: Tayal Shubham , Jadav Sunil
Published: August 2020

Power dissipation and delay are the challenging issues in the design of VLSI circuits. This manuscript explores joint effect of Self-Bias transistors (SBTs) and Optimum Bulk Bias Technique (OBBT) on CMOS circuits. Earlier investigations on SBTs shows decrease in power dissipation of
combinational as well as sequential circuits. We extend the analysis by studying the effect of OBBT on the static and dynamic power of CMOS circuits with SBTs coupled amid the pull-up/down network and the supply bars. Extensive SPICE simulations have been carried out in 0.18 μm technology.
Results demonstrate that, a 73% drop in power in case of combinational circuits and 43% in case of sequential circuits can be accomplished by engaging OBBT in digital circuits. Trade-off between power and delay is also been presented.
Multiple Systems Estimation for Modern Slavery: Robustness of List Omission and Combination
Authors: Sharifi Far Serveh , King Ruth , Bird Sheila , Overstall Antony , Worthington Hannah , Jewell Nicholas
Published: August 2020

Performing censuses on stigmatized or vulnerable populations is challenging, however, for such populations partial enumeration is often possible using different lists or sources. If the sources overlap then multiple systems estimation (MSE) methods can be applied to obtain an estimate of the total population. These are typically expressed by a log-linear model which permits positive/negative dependencies between lists. This paper considers issues that arise for the application of MSE to modern slavery where there is little to no overlap of individuals across lists. We investigate the robustness of MSE in terms of the importance of each list and the impact of combining lists on the estimation process. We undertake a simulation study and consider real national modern slavery data from the UK and Romania.
Optimal Hierarchical Learning Path Design With Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Li Xiao , Xu Hanchen , Zhang Jinming , Chang Hua-hua
Published: August 2020

E-learning systems are capable of providing more adaptive and efficient learning experiences for learners than traditional classroom settings. A key component of such systems is the learning policy. The learning policy is an algorithm that designs the learning paths or rather it selects learning materials for learners based on information such as the learners’ current progresses and skills, learning material contents. In this article, the authors address the problem of finding the optimal learning policy. To this end, a model for learners’ hierarchical skills in the E-learning system is first developed. Based on the hierarchical skill model and the classical cognitive diagnosis model, a framework to model various mastery levels related to hierarchical skills is further developed. The optimal learning path in consideration of the hierarchical structure of skills is found by applying a model-free reinforcement learning method, which does not require any assumption about learners’ learning transition processes. The effectiveness of the proposed framework is demonstrated via simulation studies.
Are We Living Longer and Healthier?
Authors: Zheng Yan , Cheung Karen Siu Lan , Yip Paul S. F.
Published: August 2020

Objective: To examine whether we live healthier as we live longer in Hong Kong, which has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. Methods: Sullivan’s method was used to evaluate the chronic disease–free life expectancy (CDFLE), life expectancy in good self-perceived health (GPHLE), and impairment-free life expectancy (IFLE) among population aged 50 years and older in Hong Kong in 2007–2016. Results: In spite of the marked improvement in life expectancy in Hong Kong, the increase in GPHLE was much smaller, while CDFLE and IFLE even declined for both genders. The situation was more severe among older population. Discussion: People in Hong Kong live longer but with worsening health. The expansion of chronic diseases, self-perceived poor health, and impairments among older adults calls for more fiscal investments, government attention, and public health policies.
Epilogues and last words in Shakespeare: Exploring patterns in a small corpus
Authors: Findlay Alison
Published: August 2020

This article considers the linguistic features of the speeches that end Shakespeare’s plays, some of which are formally labelled as Epilogues. It introduces a play’s last words as a type of paratext using the theoretical models devised by Genette (1997), and then considers the material evidence surrounding Epilogues, a specific form of last words, using research on their ephemeral and occasional nature by Stern (2009). The difficulties of using corpus methods in the case of small, specialist subcorpora of paratexts is then considered, and the methodology adopted to extract and present the results is outlined. The demonstrates features of the Last Words corpus: how pronouns raise questions about the speaker’s stance (with reference to work by Goffman (1979) and Messerli (2017)); how these speeches deploy the language of inclusivity; how they interpellate spectators or readers to promote a specific agenda. Because last words enact the fragile liminal moment where characters, actors and audience are united by their experience of the performance, the article considers their retrospective and prospective orientation. It demonstrates how the prominence of verbs like ‘shall’ and ‘will’ can be used for marketing purposes. The problems raised by uneven dispersion of terms are discussed leading to a case study of the Epilogue of As You Like It which demonstrates how its use of language is deliberately linked to the discursive world of the play which precedes it.
Ageing in Developing Societies: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Kohli Neena , Chawla Sarabjeet Kaur , Banerjee Aditya , Srinete Taru Parnika
Published: August 2020

Ageing has emerged as a major challenge in several developing societies. With falling fertility rates and increasing longevity as its main drivers, it is expected that by 2050, one in five people of the developing countries will be over 60 years of age. It is argued that on account of this, such societies would further encounter an increased demand for medical treatment, long-term care, financial and emotional support. They also are likely to face an enormous psychological burden. In the context of ageing, the article highlights some of the key issues and challenges encountered by the developing societies. Urbanisation, changing family structure and drifting intergenerational relationships are seen as factors that have led to a multitude of psychological problems like social isolation, loneliness, abuse and discrimination and depression in older adults. The article argues in support of health and other social protective measures and calls for the need to recognise the strengths of older adults with a view to integrate them into the mainstream.
Too Young to Know? A Multiple Case Study of Child-to-Parent Intergenerational Learning in Relation to Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Spiteri Jane
Published: August 2020

Little is known about child-to-parent intergenerational learning for environmental sustainability. This qualitative multiple case study research investigated how young Maltese children (aged three to seven years) influence their parents’ pro-environmental actions. Participants included 12 children and 10 parents. Data were collected via observations in one household and two state schools, conversational interviews with children, children’s drawings and their interpretations of them, children’s photograph interpretations, semi-structured interviews with parents and document analysis. Findings revealed that most parents were influenced by their children’s requests to engage in pro-environmental actions, which in turn they had learned about as part of the Eco-Schools programme. Additionally, some parents regarded their children as having agency in discussing environmental issues and strived to empower them in acquiring environmental stewardship skills, but others did not. These findings provide insight into young children’s direct and indirect abilities to influence adults’ actions towards environmental sustainability.
Phenobarbital Monotherapy for the Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Surgical-Trauma Patients
Authors: Ammar Mahmoud A. , Ammar Abdalla A. , Rosen Jordan , Kassab Hagar S. , Becher Robert D.
Published: August 2020

Background

Benzodiazepine is first-line therapy for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), and phenobarbital is an alternative therapy. However, its use has not been well validated in the surgical-trauma patient population.

Objective

To describe the use of fixed-dose phenobarbital monotherapy for the management of patients at risk for AWS in the surgical-trauma intensive care unit.

Methods

Surgical-trauma critically ill patients who received phenobarbital monotherapy, loading dose followed by a taper regimen, for the management of AWS were included in this evaluation. The effectiveness of phenobarbital monotherapy to treat AWS and prevent development of AWS-related complications were evaluated. Safety end points assessed included significant hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory depression, and need for invasive mechanical ventilation.

Results

A total of 31 patients received phenobarbital monotherapy; the majority of patients were at moderate risk for developing AWS (n = 20; 65%) versus high risk (n = 11; 35%). None of the patients developed AWS-related complications; all patients were successfully managed for their AWS. Nine patients (29%) received nonbenzodiazepine adjunct therapy for agitation post–phenobarbital initiation. Three patients (10%) experienced hypotension, and 3 (10%) were intubated. None of the patients had clinically significant bradycardia or respiratory depression.

Conclusion and Relevance

Fixed-dose phenobarbital monotherapy appears to be well tolerated and effective in the management of AWS. Further evaluation is needed to determine the extent of benefit with the use of phenobarbital monotherapy for management of AWS.
Formative Evaluation for Implementation of a Low Literacy Pictorial Asthma Action Plan Delivered via Telehealth Improves Asthma Control
Authors: Vallabhan Monique K. , Jimenez Elizabeth Y. , McCauley Grace L. , Willyard Holly , Kong Alberta S.
Published: August 2020

Consistently uncontrolled asthma in children is an increasing concern in the United States. The use of asthma action plans with asthma education is inconsistent and may be improved with adaptations for low literacy. The objective of this study was formative evaluation for implementation of the New Mexico Pictorial Asthma Action Plan (NM PicAAP). Quality improvement processes guided NM PicAAP face validation and telehealth direct patient care implementation. The asthma control test was selected to measure asthma control. NM PicAAP was revised for face validity, and training curriculum on its use and telehealth implementation processes were developed. Seven youth received NM PicAAP via telehealth direct care, which increased overall asthma control scores over 1 month. NM PicAAP may be useful and effective for improving asthma care in children via telehealth. Additional testing is needed to assess applicability.
Finite-time consensus of heterogeneous unknown nonlinear multi-agent systems with external disturbances via event-triggered control
Authors: Zamanian Mehdi , Abdollahi Farzaneh , Yadavar Nikravesh Seyyed Kamaleddin
Published: August 2020

This article investigates the practical finite-time consensus for a class of heterogeneous multi-agent systems composed of first-order and second-order agents with heterogeneous unknown nonlinear dynamics and external disturbances in an undirected communication topology. To reduce the system updates, we propose an event-triggered approach. By defining auxiliary states, an adaptive distributed event-triggered control is designed to achieve practical finite-time consensus. Unknown nonlinear dynamics for each agent are estimated using radial basis function neural network. The stability of the overall closed-loop system is studied through the Lyapunov criterion. It is proven that by applying the proposed control scheme, the local neighbor position error and the velocity error between any two agents converge to a small region in finite time. Furthermore, it is shown that the Zeno behavior is ruled out. Finally, applicability and effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified and validated by two examples.
Optimum inelastic tuned mass dampers without using viscous elements for minimizing steady-state vibration of base-excited systems
Authors: Bagheri Saman , Rahmani-Dabbagh Vahid
Published: August 2020

A special type of a tuned mass damper, which consists of a mass and an elasto-plastic spring without using any viscous damper, is used to reduce the steady-state response of structures to base excitation. Previous work of the authors showed that the elasto-plastic tuned mass damper (P-TMD) could help reduce the seismic responses, and a method based on energy equalization was proposed to design it. In this study, the effectiveness of the P-TMD is investigated under harmonic support motion, and a direct approach is developed to find its optimum parameters. To estimate the nonlinear steady-state response of P-TMD-controlled systems, an analytical framework is established using the Fourier series approximation, which is validated by direct numerical integration of the equations of motion. The obtained results for the optimum P-TMD are discussed and compared with those of the optimum elastic tuned mass damper.
Testing the Static-99R as a Global Screen for Risk of Sex Crime Recidivism in a Norwegian Routine Sample
Authors: Sandbukt Ingeborg Jenssen , Skardhamar Torbjørn , Kristoffersen Ragnar , Friestad Christine
Published: August 2020

The Static-99R has been recommended for use as a first global screen for sorting out sex-convicted persons who are in need of further risk assessment. This study investigated the Static-99R’s predictive validity based on a nonselected Norwegian sample ( n = 858) of persons released from prison after having served a sex crime sentence. After a mean observation period of 2,183 days, 3.4% ( n = 29) had recidivated to a new sex offense. A higher number of recidivists were found among those with higher Static-99R total scores. The predictive contribution from each of the ten Static-99R risk items was investigated using standard logistic regression, proportional hazard regression, and random forest classification algorithm. The overall results indicate that the Static-99R is relevant as a risk screen in a Norwegian context, providing similar results concerning predictive accuracy as previous studies.
Self-Compassion and Resilience at Work: A Practice-Oriented Review
Authors: Lefebvre Jade-Isis , Montani Francesco , Courcy François
Published: August 2020

The Problem

A key challenge for human resource development (HRD) scholars and practitioners is to understand the individual competences that can be trained and developed to enhance employee resilience at work. Empirical evidence has been accumulated on the benefits of self-compassion—that is, a set of malleable states that can be developed through HRD interventions—for individual resilience, as well as on the factors that can strengthen self-compassion in organizations. Nonetheless, limited efforts have been devoted to translate this critical scientific knowledge into evidence-based, practical insights that could guide the implementation of effective human resource development practices to develop self-compassion and, thereby, increase resilience in organizations.

The Solution

This article presents a practice-oriented literature review of the benefits of self-compassion for resilience at work. The relationship between self-compassion and resilience at work, as well as the specific workplace factors that foster growth are outlined for practical implications in the workplace. Facilitators are identified as (1) personal factors (i.e., experience of stress and level of self-awareness), (2) contemplative trainings, and (3) leadership styles and listening styles. This article provides evidence-based practical recommendations for the implementation of these factors and of self-compassion in organizations for increased resilience.

The Stakeholders

Stakeholders of this practice-oriented review are employees (especially those exposed to highly stressful job conditions) and their leaders, human resource developers in charge of setting the development of training and developmental processes to enhance self-compassion and resilience, and HRD research scholars interested in advancing current literature on self-compassion and resilience at work.
SLP Service Delivery Decisions: How Are They Made?
Authors: Brandel Jayne
Published: August 2020

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) be developed utilizing a team-based model. This study examined how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) make service delivery decisions for students with language disorders. Four hundred thirty-nine SLPs participated in a national online survey regarding how they determined the place and intensity of services for students with language disorders. SLPs most often made service delivery decisions after receiving input from the team, but slightly more than one third made decisions independently. The school teaming model and SLP experiences during graduate school affected how SLPs made service delivery decisions. The results indicate that service delivery decisions in the schools are made primarily by the SLP with varying levels of input from others on the student’s IEP team. The need for changes in practice as well as preprofessional training and professional development to prepare practitioners for interprofessional practice is discussed.
A Guide to Recommending Fiber Supplements for Self-Care
Authors: White Nicole
Published: August 2020

The health benefits of dietary fiber are extensive and wide-ranging, yet most Americans do not consume the recommended amount of fiber from their diet. Fiber supplements may be used as a means to augment a low-fiber diet. But which, if any, of the benefits of dietary fiber are achieved through supplementation? And are all fiber supplements equally effective? An evidence-based approach to recommending fiber supplements for self-care will be discussed.
Chondral Defects Cause Kissing Lesions in a Porcine Model
Authors: Yan Wenqiang , Xu Xingquan , Xu Qian , Sun Ziying , Lv Zhongyang , Wu Rui , Yan Wenjin , Jiang Qing , Shi Dongquan
Published: August 2020

Objective

To assess the development of kissing lesions 12 months after the generation of full-thickness chondral defects.

Design

Eight minipigs were randomized into 2 groups: the Φ8.5 mm full-thickness chondral defect group (8.5FT group) and the Φ6.5 mm full-thickness chondral defect group (6.5FT group). The Φ8.5 mm or Φ6.5 mm full-thickness chondral defects were prepared in the medial femoral condyle. Knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before sacrifice. India ink staining was performed to macroscopically assess kissing lesions. Histologic staining (hematoxylin-eosin [HE], safranin O/fast green, toluidine blue staining) and immunohistochemistry (collagen I, collagen II, collagen X, MMP-3) were performed. Microcomputed tomography analysis was completed to assess subchondral bone alterations.

Results

Obvious kissing lesions were observed on the tibial plateau. Knee MRI demonstrated high cartilage signal intensity in the medial femoral condyle and opposite tibial plateau. HE staining demonstrated cartilage fibrillation and prominent cell death. The depletion of safranin O, toluidine blue staining, and collagen II was observed in the kissing lesion areas. The kissing lesion areas demonstrated increased collagen I, Collagen X, and MMP-3 expression. The 8.5FT group showed a significantly lower mean trabecular number (2.80 1/mm) than the control group (3.26 1/mm). The 6.5FT group showed a significantly increased mean trabecular thickness (0.54 mm) and a decreased mean trabecular number (2.71 1/mm) compared to the control group (0.32 mm; 3.26 1/mm).

Conclusions

Obvious kissing lesions were observed on the tibial plateau. Knee MRI demonstrated high cartilage signal The presented findings support the development of kissing lesions caused by full-thickness chondral defects.
The Predictive Power of K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN): The Effect of Corporate Governance Mechanisms on Earnings Management
Authors: Wu Mengyun , Coleman Martha , Bawuah Jonas
Published: August 2020

This study investigates the long-run effect of corporate governance mechanisms on earnings management of listed companies in Nigeria and Ghana. The study uses Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) in establishing a long-run effect of good corporate mechanisms in reducing earnings management practice by corporate managers. ACO selected four major corporate governance mechanisms: Board Procedure Index, Board Disclosure Index, Ownership Structure Index, and Shareholders’ Rights Index; these were the key corporate governance mechanisms that influence the reduction in earnings management activities. KNN produced a strong significant longitudinal effect of implementing good corporate governance mechanisms in decreasing the manipulating behavior of managers. Quality corporate governance mechanisms’ implementation reduces the opportunistic behavior of corporate managers in manipulating earnings. Therefore, the study alert policymakers the urgency in setting up appropriate policies to enhance the reduction in earnings management practices to provide accurate financial information for stakeholders’ financial decision-making. The use of ACO and KNN in the study is a great novelty, which presents a calibration and prediction of the impact of corporate governance mechanisms on earnings management showing the rate of reduction.
Readability of Annual Reports and Operating Performance of Indian Banking Companies
Authors: Jayasree M. , Shette Rachappa
Published: August 2020

Existing literature focuses on the evaluation of the readability of annual reports of non-banking companies. However, banking companies’ opaque nature and a double motivation to abuse accounting discretion requires a separate study on the readability of banks’ annual reports in association with their performance. We, therefore, attempt to explore firm performance and readability of banking firms’ annual reports in India. Net interest margin (NIM) and Fog Index are used as performance and readability variables respectively. We find that management discussion and analysis (MD&A) of the Indian banks is difficult to read. However, when we compare it with existing literature, Indian banks’ MD&A is difficult but not unreadable. Panel data regression analysis shows that firm performance would have a negative impact on the Fog Index. Further analysis of good and weak performing banking firms shows that the effect of NIM on Fog Index is higher in the case of weak performing banks. Empirical results affirm that firms with weak performance would structure their annual reports to veil adverse information in unfavourable situations. Consistent with the opaque nature of banks and incomplete revelation, managers of banks make MD&A harder to read to cover up the causes of weak performance. Application of readability index in case of banking companies in an emerging economy in association with performance is the contribution of this paper. An assessment of the readability of annual reports is an interesting topic for research to better understand the recent negative developments in Indian banking industry such as high non-performing assets, continuously declining return on assets, sharp increase in banking frauds and poor governance.
Myeloablative haploidentical BMT with posttransplant cyclophosphamide for hematologic malignancies in children and adults
Authors: Symons Heather J. , Zahurak Marianna , Cao Yilin , Chen Allen , Cooke Kenneth , Gamper Christopher , Klein Orly , Llosa Nicolas , Zambidis Elias T. , Ambinder Richard , Bolaños-Meade Javier , Borrello Ivan , Brodsky Robert , DeZern Amy , Gojo Ivana , Showel Margaret , Swinnen Lode , Smith B. Douglas , Luznik Leo , Jones Richard J. , Fuchs Ephraim J.
Published: August 2020

Promising results have been reported for patients with high-risk hematologic malignancies undergoing HLA-haploidentical bone marrow transplantation (haploBMT) with posttransplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy), but there are few data on outcomes with myeloablative conditioning in this context. We report the results of a single-institution, prospective phase 2 trial of myeloablative haploBMT using busulfan-based or total body irradiation–based conditioning in 96 children or adults (median age, 42 years; range, 1-65 years) with high-risk hematologic malignancies. Recovery of neutrophils and platelets occurred at a median of 24 and 29 days. Engraftment of donor cells with chimerism >95% was achieved in 91%. The cumulative incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) grades II to IV and grades III to IV at day 100 was 11% and 4%, and of chronic GVHD at 6 and 12 months was 4% and 15%, with 6% moderate to severe. The cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality was 6% at 100 days and 11% at 1 year (19% in those aged >55 years). The cumulative incidence of relapse at 1 year was 35%; at 3 years, it was 43%. In multivariable analysis, relapse was associated with increased age (P = .02 for age 20-55 years and P = .02 for age >55 years) and with minimal residual disease before transplantation (P = .05). The overall survival at 1 and 3 years is 73% and 54%, and event-free survival at 1 and 3 years is 57% and 49%. We show that haploBMT with PTCy after myeloablative conditioning is safe and efficacious for adult and pediatric patients with hematologic malignancies. Careful consideration must be given to using myeloablative conditioning in patients age >55 years. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00796562.
Trunk muscle activity during pressure feedback monitoring among individuals with and without chronic low Back pain
Authors: Li Xin , Lo Wai Leung Ambrose , Lu Song-wei , Liu Howe , Lin Ke-yu , Lai Jian-yang , Li Le , Wang Chu-huai
Published: August 2020

Background

Pressure biofeedback unit (PBU) is a widely used non-invasive device to assist core muscle training by providing pressure feedback. The aim this study was to compare the muscle activities of transverse abdominis (TA) and multifidus (MF) at different target pressures (50, 60 and 70 mmHg) of PBU between individuals with and without cLBP.

Methods

Twenty-two patients with chronic LBP (cLBP) and 24 age matched healthy individuals were recruited. Electromyography (EMG) signals were recorded from the TA and MF muscles while the TA and MF were contracted to achieve PBU pressure value of 50, 60 and 70 mmHg in random order. The average EMG amplitude (AEMG) of 3 replicate trials was used in the analysis after normalization to %MVIC. %MVIC is defined as the mean of the three AEMG divided by the AEMG of MVIC. Two-way ANOVA was performed to assess the effects of groups (healthy and cLBP) and the three different target pressures of PBU. Independent sample t-test was conducted to compare between the two groups. Spearman’s correlation analysis was performed in the cLBP group to determine potential correlations between EMG activity, NPRS and ODI.

Results

The %MVIC of the TA and MF in the cLBP group were higher than the control group at each pressure value (P<0.05). During maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of TA and MF, compared with healthy groups, cLBP subjects showed a decrease (TA mean = 47.61 μV; MF mean = 42.40 μV) in EMG amplitudes (P ≤ 0.001). The MVIC of MF was negatively correlated with Numerical Pain Rating Scale (r = − 0.48, P = 0.024) and Oswestry Disability Index (r = − 0.59, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

We measured the trunk muscles activities at different PBU pressure values, which allows the individual to estimate trunk muscle contraction via PBU. Clinicians may be able to confer the data obtained through EMG recordings to adjust the exercise intensity of PBU training accordingly.
Aspergillus spondylitis: case series and literature review
Authors: Dai Guohua , Wang Ting , Yin Chuqiang , Sun Yuanliang , Xu Derong , Wang Zhongying , Luan Liangrui , Hou Jianwen , Li Shuzhong
Published: August 2020

Background

Spinal fungal infections, especially spinal Aspergillus infections, are rare in the clinic. Here, we introduce the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prognoses of 6 cases of Aspergillus spondylitis.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed the complete clinical data of patients with Aspergillus spondylitis treated in our hospital from January 2013 to January 2020.

Results

Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated in 4 cases, and Aspergillus spp. and Aspergillus niger were isolated in 1 case each. All six patients reported varying degrees of focal spinal pain; one patient reported radiating pain, one patient experienced bowel dysfunction and numbness in both lower limbs, and three patients had fever symptoms. One case involved the thoracic spine, one case involved the thoracolumbar junction, and 4 cases involved the lumbar spine. Three patients were already in an immunosuppressed state, and three patients entered an immunosuppressed state after spinal surgery. All six patients were successfully cured, and five required surgery. Of the 5 patients who underwent surgical treatment, 2 had spinal cord compression symptoms, and 3 had spinal instability. At the end of follow-up, 1 patient reported left back pain and 1 patient reported left limb numbness.

Conclusion

The clinical manifestations of Aspergillus spondylitis are non-specific, and the diagnosis depends on typical imaging findings and microbiological and histopathological examination results. When there is no spinal instability, spinal nerve compression symptoms, or progressive deterioration, antifungal therapy alone may be considered. If spinal instability, spinal nerve compression, or epidural abscess formation is present, surgery combined with antifungal therapy is recommended.
Association between increased signal intensity at the proximal patellar tendon and patellofemoral geometry in community-based asymptomatic middle-aged adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Little Robert D. , Smith Samuel E. , Cicuttini Flavia M. , Tanamas Stephanie K. , Wluka Anita E. , Hussain Sultana Monira , Urquhart Donna M. , Jones Graeme , Wang Yuanyuan
Published: August 2020

Background

Histological and epidemiological data suggest that increased signal intensity at the proximal patellar tendon on magnetic resonance imaging is a response to tendon loading. As patellofemoral geometry is a mediator of loading, we examined the association between patellofemoral geometry and the prevalence of increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon in community-based middle-aged adults.

Methods

Two hundred-one adults aged 25–60 years in a study of obesity and musculoskeletal health had the patellar tendon assessed from magnetic resonance imaging. Increased signal intensity at the proximal patellar tendon was defined as hyper-intense regions of characteristic pattern, size and distribution on both T1- and T2-weighted sequences. Indices of patellofemoral geometry, including Insall-Salvati ratio, patellofemoral congruence angle, sulcus angle, and lateral condyle-patella angle, were measured from magnetic resonance imaging using validated methods. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between patellofemoral geometrical indices and the prevalence of increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon.

Results

The prevalence of increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon was 37.3%. A greater Insall-Salvati ratio (odds ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.66–0.97 per 0.1 change in the ratio, p = 0.02), indicative of a higher-riding patella, and a larger patellofemoral congruence angle (odds ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.85–0.98 per 5 degree change in the angle, p = 0.01), indicating a more laterally placed patella, were associated with reduced odds of increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon. Sulcus angle and lateral condyle-patella angle were not significantly associated with the odds of increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon.

Conclusions

In community-based asymptomatic middle-aged adults, increased signal intensity at the patellar tendon was common and associated with Insall-Salvati ratio and patellofemoral congruence angle, suggesting a biomechanical mechanism. Such work is likely to inform tissue engineering and cell regeneration approaches to improving outcomes in those with tendon pathology.