bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of multi-focal human TB after BCG instillation for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Riccardi Niccolò , Ferrarese Maurizio , Castellotti Paola , Mazzola Ester , Sozzi Francesco , Rigatti Patrizio , Vanzulli Angelo , Sotgiu Giovanni , Codecasa Luigi
Published: July 2019

Objective:

To describe a left epididymitis and para-aortical involvement caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis reactivation after bacillus Calmette-Guérin instillation for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Patient and methods:

A Caucasian male, aged 76 years, exposed to bacillus Calmette-Guérin for a high-grade non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer in 2015, reported painful and progressive left scrotal swelling with purulent discharge from a cutaneous fistulous track that yielded, on liquid culture, a pan-susceptible Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis strain. Moreover, after 6 months of anti-tuberculosis treatment, an abdominal peri-aortic mass, sized 4 cm, was found and a surgical biopsy showed necrotizing granulomas; however, although smear microscopy and Xpert MTB/Rif™ performed on fresh biopsy sample were positive, liquid cultures resulted negative, indicating treatment efficacy.

Results:

Numerous peculiar and multi-organ involvement due to BCGitis after intravesical immunotherapy have been previously described, including 17 scientific articles about epididymitis, however, no reports so far showed reactivation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis after bacillus Calmette-Guérin treatment.

Conclusion:

Although BCGitis is more prevalent in patients undergoing bacillus Calmette-Guérin instillation for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, tuberculosis by other species of Mycobacterium tuberculosis should be always ruled out by molecular and conventional microbiology in patients with a history of Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis exposure.
History of Physical Teen Dating Violence and Its Association With Suicidal Behaviors Among Adolescent High School Students: Results From the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Authors: Baiden Philip , Mengo Cecilia , Small Eusebius
Published: July 2019

Although studies have investigated and found physical teen dating violence (TDV) has a significant negative impact on mental health outcomes, few studies are yet to investigate the effect of physical TDV on suicidal behaviors among adolescents. The objectives of this study are to examine the prevalence of physical TDV, suicidal ideation, suicide plan, and suicide attempt among adolescents aged 14 to 18 years and the association between physical TDV and these suicidal behaviors. Data for this study were obtained from the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey. A sample of 9,693 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years (50.4% males) was analyzed using logistic regression with suicidal ideation, suicide plan, and suicide attempt as outcome variables and physical TDV as the main explanatory variable. About 17% of the adolescent students experienced suicidal ideation, 13.7% made a suicide plan, and 7.6% attempted suicide during the past 12 months. Among those who were dating, 9.9% experienced physical TDV. In the multivariate logistic regression, adolescent students who experienced physical TDV were 1.92 times more likely to have experienced suicidal ideation, 1.67 times more likely to have made a suicide plan, and 2.42 times more likely to have attempted suicide during the past 12 months when compared with their counterparts who were dating but experienced no physical TDV. Other significant predictors of suicidal behaviors include being a sexual minority, experiencing forced sex, bullying, feeling sad or hopeless, and binge drinking. Having sufficient sleep lowered the odds of suicidal ideation and suicide plan. The topic of physical TDV and its association with suicidal behaviors among adolescents is such an important issue for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the United States and around the world. Prevention and intervention efforts should be culturally tailored to reflect the unique experiences with physical TDV and suicide among minority populations such as sexual minority adolescents.
Programmed Cell Death-1 Monoclonal Antibody Therapy and Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Farina Kyle A. , Kane Michael P.
Published: July 2019

Two Food and Drug Administration-approved programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors, nivolumab (Opdivo®), and pembrolizumab (Keytruda®), are indicated for treatment-resistant malignancies. Inhibition of PD-1 also inhibits T-cell peripheral tolerance, enhancing autoimmunity. Various autoimmune conditions have been reported with the use of these agents, including type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This article reviews literature regarding the development of T1DM in patients treated with PD-1 inhibitors and identifies strategies for the appropriate identification, monitoring, and follow-up of these patients. Published cases of T1DM related to PD-1 inhibitor therapy were identified using PubMed. Eighty-three identified publications were reviewed, of which 37 publications involving 42 cases of anti-PD-1 therapy-induced T1DM were identified. The average age of patients at presentation was 62 years and 59.5% were male. The mean number of PD-1 inhibitor doses received was 5, with a mean time to presentation of 11 weeks. Initial presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis was reported in 69% of cases, with an average blood glucose of 660 mg/dL and an average HbA1c of 8.7%. The exact mechanism PD-1 inhibitor therapy-induced T1DM is unknown. Blood glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving anti-PD-1 therapy. Further research is needed to delineate the frequency of this adverse effect, as well as to evaluate potential risk factors and ideal management strategies.
Multi-objective vehicle optimization: Comparison of combustion engine, hybrid and electric powertrains
Authors: Holjevac Nikola , Cheli Federico , Gobbi Massimiliano
Published: July 2019

The use of optimization techniques has been extensively adopted in vehicle design and with the increasing complexity of systems, especially with the introduction of new technologies, it plays an even more significant role. Market competition, stringent mandatory emission regulations and the need for a future sustainable mobility have raised questions over conventional vehicles and are pushing toward new cleaner and eco-friendly solutions. Fulfilling this target without sacrificing the other vehicle’s requirements leads to extremely challenging tasks for vehicle designers. The use of virtual prototyping emerges as a possible breakthrough allowing to rapidly assess the effect of design changes and the impact of new technologies. The study presented in this work provides a suitable approach to compare different vehicle powertrain architectures through optimization techniques and deploying model-based simulation to rapidly assess vehicle performances. The vehicle model is defined at the components level through scalable models obtained from based on detailed simulation. An optimal energy management is applied to the power sources and transmission gear shifting. The optimization technique consider the main design variables of the various components including vehicle chassis and extensively exploits the design space. The multi-objective optimization considers vehicle’s consumption, emission, range, longitudinal and lateral dynamics, costs and further performances to comprehensively assess the vehicle. The results allow to compare four different powertrain architectures: combustion engine vehicle, hybrid electric vehicle with parallel and series configuration, and battery electric vehicle. The results allows furthermore to identify technological limitations and conflicts among the different objectives. A critical analysis over the main design variables allows to identify the more suitable values and in particular, for combustion engine, gearbox and electric traction drive detailed comparisons are provided.
Study on fluctuant element and attenuation rules of seismo-acoustic wave
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Zhang Jian , Guo Cean , Kou Dongwei , Zhao Hongzhi
Published: July 2019

In order to study the propagation characteristics and attenuation rules of seismo-acoustic wave, in this article, the wave equation and displacement function of the seismo-acoustic wave were established, the propagation process of seismo-acoustic wave was three-dimensional simulated by the finite element software LS-DYNA, and the propagation characteristics and attenuation rules of the seismo-acoustic wave were obtained. The NI data acquisition system was used for data acquisition of the underwater test. The simulation and test results are processed by wavelet transform. Theoretical derivation, simulation calculation, and comparison of test results showed that the seismo-acoustic wave includes first break, spherical compressional wave and shear wave, and cylindrical Scholte wave. At the fluid–solid interface, the compressional wave and shear wave propagation attenuated as 1/ r2, and Scholte wave propagation attenuated as 1/ r0.5. In the depth direction, Scholte wave propagation decays exponentially. Scholte wave is mainly concentrated below 25 Hz. The research results can provide important reference value for the research of using seismo-acoustic wave target recognition.
How good is our public library service? The evolution of a new quality standards framework for Scottish public libraries 2012–2017
Authors: Reid Peter H.
Published: July 2019

The current challenging environment for public library has resulted in an ever greater need to demonstrate and evidence the quality of library provision as well as the value and impact of these services on society. Research, conducted on behalf of the Scottish Library and Information Council, reviewed the previous quality standards mechanism used in Scotland and resulted in the creation of a new framework. Data were gathered through a systematic review of all published quality audits of Scottish public libraries, focus groups with heads of service, impact workshops with library staff. The findings resulted in the creation of a new approach to assessing and evaluating the quality of provision as well as the value and impact of Scottish public libraries.
How to increase the loyalty of public library users? A qualitative study
Authors: Tajedini Oranus , Khasseh Ali Akbar , Afzali Mahin , Sadatmoosavi Ali
Published: July 2019

The main objective of this study is to explain how to increase user loyalty behavior to public library services. This study uses a qualitative method based on grounded theory. The research population included users of public libraries in Iran. The data were collected through in-depth interviews, and the theoretical saturation was obtained after interviewing 24 members of public libraries. The collected data through interviews were analyzed using theoretical coding and content analysis. Results indicated that observing moral and humane principles when dealing with library users plays a significant role in both building user loyalty to the library and attracting new users. In addition, it was found that causal conditions in increasing loyalty among public library users are related to four areas including physical space management, information resource management, human resource management, and information technology management. It was also noted that factors such as service quality, proper design of interiors, providing diverse and updated information resources, the use of new communication technologies, and the use of cyberspace and social network applications must be taken into account by public libraries. Building loyalty among users and members of public libraries in today’s technological world is of high importance, as it will guarantee the repeated and more frequent use of public libraries and their services and thus reflect their positive effects. The loyalty of users of libraries and information centers can be based on perceived quality, effective communication between librarians and users, and satisfaction with services offered by libraries and their staffs and can affect the intention for repeated visits, and the use of library service and preferring a library over other libraries.
Neural Stem Cell Transplantation Improves Locomotor Function in Spinal Cord Transection Rats Associated with Nerve Regeneration and IGF-1 R Expression
Authors: Zhao Xiao-Ming , He Xiu-Ying , Liu Jia , Xu Yang , Xu Fei-Fei , Tan Ya-Xin , Zhang Zi-Bin , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: July 2019

Transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) is a potential strategy for the treatment of spinal cord transection (SCT). Here we investigated whether transplanted NSCs would improve motor function of rats with SCT and explored the underlying mechanism. First, the rats were divided into sham, SCT, and NSC groups. Rats in the SCT and NSC groups were all subjected to SCT in T10, and were administered with media and NSC transplantation into the lesion site, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was used to label Nestin-, TUNEL-, and NeuN-positive cells and reveal the expression and location of type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1 R). Locomotor function of hind limbs was assessed by Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) score and inclined plane test. The conduction velocity and amplitude of spinal nerve fibers were measured by electrophysiology and the anatomical changes were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Moreover, expression of IGF-1 R was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The results showed that NSCs could survive and differentiate into neurons in vitro and in vivo. SCT-induced deficits were reduced by NSC transplantation, including increase in NeuN-positive cells and decrease in apoptotic cells. Moreover, neurophysiological profiles indicated that the latent period was decreased and the peak-to-peak amplitude of spinal nerve fibers conduction was increased in transplanted rats, while morphological measures indicated that fractional anisotropy and the number of nerve fibers in the site of spinal cord injury were increased after NSC transplantation. In addition, mRNA and protein level of IGF-1 R were increased in the rostral segment in the NSC group, especially in neurons. Therefore, we concluded that NSC transplantation promotes motor function improvement of SCT, which might be associated with activated IGF-1 R, especially in the rostral site. All of the above suggests that this approach has potential for clinical treatment of spinal cord injury.
miR-145 Contributes to the Progression of Cervical Carcinoma by Directly Regulating FSCN1
Authors: Ma Li , Li Ling-Ling
Published: July 2019

The purpose of our study was to investigate the underlying mechanism and functional role of microRNA-145 (miR-145) in cervical cancer. In this study, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to detect miR-145 and FSCN1 expression levels in tissues and HeLa cells. Western blotting was performed to determine the protein level of FSCN1. The luciferase assay was used to verify the direct target of miR-145. The CCK-8 assay and 2D colony formation assays were performed to determine the effects of miR-145 mimics or FSCN1 silencing on cell proliferation. miR-145 expression levels were significantly down-regulated, while FSCN1 expression levels were significantly up-regulated in the cervical carcinoma tissues compared with their matched non-cancerous tissues. In addition, FSCN1 expression levels were negatively correlated to miR-145 in tissues. Next, FSCN1 was verified as the direct target of miR-145 in HeLa cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-145 dramatically inhibited the proliferation of HeLa cells. The silencing of FSCN1 exhibited the similar patterns on cell proliferation as miR-145 overexpression. The miR-145/ FSCN1 axis contributes to the progression of cervical cancer by inhibition of cervical cancer cell proliferation.
Monetary Policy, Trade Openness and Economic Growth in India Under Monetary-targeting and Multiple-indicator Approach Regimes
Authors: Hossain Tafajul , Maitra Biswajit
Published: July 2019

This article examines the role of monetary policy and trade openness to raise income in India for the monetary-targeting regime and the multiple-indicator approach regime of monetary policy. The impact of the key instruments of monetary policy, namely, money supply, interest rate and exchange rate, with trade openness on income, is assessed. Besides, how interest rate responds to monetary instruments, income and trade openness is studied. Empirical analysis finds a significant positive impact of the broad money supply, both in the short run and the long run, along with a negative long-run impact of the real interest rate and a positive impact of the real effective exchange rate in the variations of income. On the other hand, trade openness contributes to a rise in income in the short run, while its impact on the long run is negative. The interest rate has also responded to policy instruments, income and openness which indicates that the monetary policy is effective over the two monetary regimes.
Predictive and prognostic roles of electrical cardiometry in noninvasive assessments of community‐acquired pneumonia patients with dyspnoea
Authors: Gho Kyungil , Woo Seon Hee , Lee Sang Moog , Park Ki Cheol , Park Gyeong Nam , Kim Jinwoo , Hong Sungyoup
Published: July 2019

Background:

Thoracic impedance monitoring able to detect pneumonia in the very early phase of emerging infiltration prior the patient developed remarkable clinical symptoms. However, no studies have yet been conducted on the usefulness of predicting pneumonia patient outcomes with parameters from electrical cardiometry.

Objective:

In the present study, we evaluated whether parameters measured by electrical cardiometry can predict clinical outcomes including mortality and length of hospital stay in patients with community‐acquired pneumonia in the emergency department.

Methods:

Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected from enrolled patient. Electrical cardiometry monitoring was done with a portable electrical cardiometry device connected to the body surface sensor. The continuous data from electrical cardiometry were recorded, and parameters were stored on the electrical cardiometry device automatically and then the data were downloaded for further analysis.

Results:

Thoracic fluid content has shown to be significantly higher in the intensive care unit admission group and in the death group. Expired patients had higher value of thoracic fluid content at emergency department admission. From a receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, thoracic fluid content presented fair AUC values of 0.72 (95% confidence interval, 0.71–0.74) and 0.73 (0.62–0.82) for prediction of 28‐day mortality and intensive care unit admission. Arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), the ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen to inspired oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2 ratio) also showed excellent AUC value for prediction of mortality and intensive care unit admission.

Conclusion:

Electrical cardiometry monitoring indicated new possibility to anticipate prognosis of community‐acquired pneumonia patient. Increased thoracic fluid content value would relate worse outcome of the patient like mortality and intensive care unit admission. Electrical cardiometry monitoring allows real‐time measurements of thoracic fluid content without restraining the patient or invasive catheters.
Expectations in Transition: Students’ and Teachers’ Expectations of University in an International Branch Campus
Authors: Yang Lin , Borrowman Luc , Tan Meng Yoe , New Jaa Yien
Published: July 2019

In the Asian context, when students transition from pre-university to an International Branch Campus of a Western university, they tend to experience significant differences in a number of areas in their first-year university lives. Because of the different educational cultures, students and teachers may have different expectations on the academic culture of university. If a misalignment of these expectations occurs, the potential for a negative learning and teaching experience is likely to increase. This article attempts to identify the gaps between the two parties to circumvent the potential problems that come with it. A survey was conducted with 728 first-year students and 124 teachers who teach first-year subjects at a Western university international branch campus in Malaysia. The results show that significant gaps exist in their expectations on course content, responsiveness, assessment support aspects, and concern for student. These findings warrant attention from the home campus as well as the branch campus. Some suggestions are offered to address these gaps in expectations.
Subjective Well-Being of Angolan Students in Portugal
Authors: Neto Félix
Published: July 2019

This study examined the subjective well-being (SWB) of international students. International students represent one of the biggest and most relevant sojourners groups. The sample included 204 Angolan international students who attended Portuguese universities and a control group of native-born Portuguese students. Using quantitative survey research methods, the relative strengths of demographic, acculturation, and sociocultural adaptation factors in predicting two indicators of SWB (overall well-being and academic satisfaction) were explored. Angolan students revealed lower levels of well-being and higher levels of academic satisfaction than Portuguese students. As expected, language proficiency, interaction with conationals, ethnic identity, and sociocultural adaptation were significantly correlated with SWB. In addition, results indicated that acculturation and sociocultural adaptation variables accounted for a larger proportion of explained variance in SWB than demographic variables. Academic satisfaction predicted well-being beyond demographic, acculturation, and sociocultural factors. Some implications of the findings for improving SWB of international students and future research are discussed.
Wellness Among University-level Music Students: A Study of the Predictors of Subjective Vitality
Authors: Miksza Peter , Evans Paul , McPherson Gary E.
Published: July 2019

For many music students, the transition to university-level studies can be a time characterized by high levels of stress as they adjust to academic standards and the challenges of demanding performance assessments. Given this context, this study investigated the impact of stress on students’ well-being, specifically the facet of subjective vitality, defined in the literature as a feeling of energy and aliveness. Our focus was to explore whether certain psychosocial traits would moderate the negative effects of stress on vitality. Working from an empirically derived conceptual model, our central hypotheses were: (a) that stress and self-oriented perfectionism would be negatively related to vitality, whereas adaptability and quality of peer relationships would be positively related to vitality; and (b) that the relationship between stress and vitality would be moderated by students’ self-oriented perfectionism, adaptability, and quality of peer relationships. Participants were 293 undergraduate and graduate music majors from university schools of music and conservatoires in the United States and Australia. Findings revealed that stress was a significant negative predictor of vitality, but self-oriented perfectionism was not. In addition, both adaptability and quality of peer relationships were significant positive predictors of vitality. However, neither self-oriented perfectionism, adaptability, nor quality of peer relationships moderated the effects of stress on vitality. These findings are discussed with regard to practical recommendations for helping students deal with the stressors in their environments and potential theoretical avenues to explore through future research.
Typical and Ideal Practices in Early Intervention in Spain During a Transformation Process of Professional Practices
Authors: García-Grau Pau , Martínez-Rico Gabriel , McWilliam R. A. , Cañadas Pérez Margarita
Published: July 2019

Early intervention (EI) has evolved toward a family-centered approach over the past decades. Despite emphasis on this philosophy, however, the field still needs to move from a child- and deficit-based approach to a family-centered one. This study aimed to be a baseline description of professional practices of 250 EI professionals in Spain during a change to family-centered practices by the Spanish Confederation of organizations for people with intellectual disabilities, Plena Inclusión. We conducted variance analysis on the Families in Natural Environments Scale of Service Evaluation–II (FINESSE-II), and found ideal-practices scores to be higher than typical practice in all factors of the scale. Location of the intervention and city size had an impact on the total FINESSE-II score, whereas professional demographic variables did not. Ideal practices of family-centered professionals were higher than those of non-family-centered professionals in the total score and in all factors, especially in the Functional Intervention factor.
An Arts-Informed Parent Education Program About Play: Exploring a New Approach to Science Outreach and Community Engagement
Authors: Rathunde Kevin , Isabella Russell
Published: July 2019

Background: Parent education programs take many forms and attempt to raise parents’ awareness of factors that positively affect child development. Program effectiveness varies greatly depending on whether parents feel engaged and interested by program content. Purpose: This article discusses a novel, “arts-informed” approach to parent education in a program called ThroughPlay. The program was collaboratively developed with local artists and uses a multimedia presentation (e.g., film, photography, music, and design) to translate scientific information about play and human development to public audiences in more visceral and compelling ways. Methodology/Approach: Sections of the article discuss the growing use of the arts for translating science, the benefits of integrating the arts for emotional engagement and education, and how the arts were collaboratively incorporated to create the ThroughPlay presentation. Findings/Conclusions: Consistent with notions of experiential learning and embodied cognition, arts-informed programs are thought to be effective by instigating an intellectually and emotionally engaging learning process. Implications: Arts–science collaborations are emerging at research universities across the country and are increasingly recognized as having great promise for community engagement and science outreach.
β-Blockers and the Rate of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations
Authors: Mersfelder Tracey L. , Shiltz Dane L.
Published: July 2019

Objective: To review the rate of exacerbations relative to β-blocker use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1953 to May 2019) was performed using the search terms beta-blockers, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and exacerbations. An EMBASE search was also performed using the search terms chronic obstructive lung disease and beta adrenergic receptor blocking agents (1970 to May 2019). References from the review of literature citations were also identified. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language studies assessing COPD exacerbations in patients prescribed a β-blocker were included. Any article not addressing exacerbations was excluded. Data Synthesis: A total of 15 articles were included; 7 articles showed no change, 1 provided mixed results, and 7 indicated a significant decrease in COPD exacerbations in a variety of exacerbation severities. Two of the studies differentiated between cardioselective and noncardioselective β-blockers. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: This work represents an initial assessment of the use of β-blockers to reduce COPD exacerbations. The findings raise the question if β-blockers should be used more frequently in patients with COPD. Conclusions: Based on the limited number of studies that address β-blocker use in COPD, it appears that exacerbations are not increased and may be decreased. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial is in progress to possibly provide more definitive answers to this question. Until the trial is complete, β-blockers should not be withheld in COPD patients who have concurrent cardiovascular conditions, especially where there is a mortality benefit.
Immunophenotypic Comparison of Neoplasms of the Appendix, Right Colon, and Left Colon in Search of a Site-Specific Phenotypic Signature
Authors: Mesa Hector , Manivel Juan C. , Larson Wendy S. , Dachel Susan K. , Reinink Andrew R. , Jessurun Jose
Published: July 2019

Aims. The proximal colon derives from the midgut endoderm, the distal one third derives from the hindgut endoderm, and the distal anal canal is of ectodermal origin. At least 5 molecular subtypes of colorectal carcinomas (CRC) have been identified, and some have a marked preferential right-sided location. Histologically, some CRC are much more common in the appendix. We hypothesized that these findings suggest the existence of diverse molecular genetic colonic subregions and compared the expression of classic and recently discovered colorectal markers in tumors at various locations to determine if a site-specific immunophenotypic signature could be identified. Methods and Results. Immunostains for CK7, CK20, MUC2, MUC5AC, MUC6, SATB2, DCR3/TNF6B, CDX2, Ki-67, and MMR proteins were performed on 17 appendiceal low-grade mucinous neoplasms and 6 crypt cell adenocarcinomas of the appendix, 15 right-sided and 15 left-sided mucinous adenocarcinomas, 17 right-sided and 15 left-sided conventional adenocarcinomas, and 5 signet ring cell adenocarcinomas (SRCCA). Statistically significant differences in the expression of MUC2, MUC5AC, MUC6, CK7, and SATB2 by site and/or histologic type were documented. MMR deficiency showed a significant correlation with MUC5AC and MUC6 expression. DCR3, CDX2, and CK20 expression was consistent throughout the colon. A CK7+/CK20+ phenotype was most common in appendiceal tumors and SRCCA. Conclusions. Statistically significant differences in the expression of some markers by histologic type and site were documented, supporting the existence of regional molecular genetic heterogeneity in the colon that result in site-specific epigenetic susceptibilities, tumor phenotypes, and immunophenotypes.
Protein Translation and Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Laguesse Sophie , Ron Dorit
Published: July 2019

Although historically research has focused on transcription as the central governor of protein expression, protein translation is now increasingly being recognized as a major factor for determining protein levels within cells. The central nervous system relies on efficient updating of the protein landscape. Thus, coordinated regulation of mRNA localization, initiation, or termination of translation is essential for proper brain function. In particular, dendritic protein synthesis plays a key role in synaptic plasticity underlying learning and memory as well as cognitive processes. Increasing evidence suggests that impaired mRNA translation is a common feature found in numerous psychiatric disorders. In this review, we describe how malfunction of translation contributes to development of psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction.
Vibration based brake health monitoring using wavelet features: A machine learning approach
Authors: Alamelu Manghai T. M. , Jegadeeshwaran R.
Published: July 2019

In this study, the application of wavelets has been investigated for diagnosing the faults on a hydraulic brake system of a light motor vehicle using the vibration signals acquired from a brake test setup through a piezoelectric type accelerometer. An efficient brake system should provide reliable and effective performance in order to ensure safety . If it is not properly monitored, it may lead to a serious catastrophic effect such as accidents, frequent breakdown, etc. Hence, the brake system needs to be monitored continuously. The condition of the brake components and the vibration signals are interrelated. If the failure starts progressing, the vibration magnitude will also progress. Analyzing the vibration signals under the various fault conditions is the key process in fault diagnosis. In recent decades wavelets have been focused on in many fault diagnosis studies as the wavelets decompose the complex information into simple form with high precision for further analysis. The wavelet features were extracted in order to retrieve the information from the vibration signals using discrete wavelet transform. From that discretized signal under each fault condition, the relevant features were extracted and feature selection was carried out. The selected features were then classified using a set of machine learning classifiers such as best first tree (pre-pruning, post-pruning, and unpruned), Hoeffding tree (HT), support vector machine, and neural network. The classification accuracies of all the algorithms were compared and discussed. Among the considered classifier model, the HT model produced a better classification accuracy as 99.45% for the hydraulic brake fault diagnosis.
Arthroscopically-assisted removal of distal centraliser of an MS-30 femoral stem using a cannulated reamer in revision hip arthroplasty
Authors: Papachristos Ioannis V , Acton Kerry
Published: July 2019

Background:

Revision hip arthroplasty can be challenging especially when difficulties to remove distal centralisers arise.

Case:

We report a case where we removed a well-fixed 1st-generation solid MS-30 distal centraliser combining standard cannulated trauma reamers and arthroscopical guidance. Such case has not been reported in the past and this technical tip can be useful in revision procedures of the specific implant.
Total hip arthroplasty in Parkinson’s disease patients: a propensity score-matched analysis with minimum 2-year surveillance
Authors: Shah Neil V , Solow Maximillian , Lavian Joshua D , Bloom Lee R , Grieco Preston W , Stroud Sarah G , Abraham Roby , Naziri Qais , Paulino Carl B , Maheshwari Aditya V , Diebo Bassel G
Published: July 2019

Introduction:

Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients experience chronic pain related to osteoarthritis at comparable rates to the general population. While total hip arthroplasty (THA) effectively improves pain, functionality, and quality of life in PD patients, long-term outcomes following THA are under-reported. This study sought to investigate whether PD patients have an increased risk of complications and revision following THA in comparison to the general population.

Methods:

Utilising New York State’s Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System, all PD patients who underwent THA from 2009 to 2011 with minimum 2-year follow-up were identified. A control group (no-PD) was created via 1:1 propensity score-matching by age, gender, and Charlson/Deyo score. Univariate analysis compared demographics, complications, and revisions. Multivariate binary stepwise logistic regression identified independent predictors of outcomes.

Results:

470 propensity score-matched patients (PD: n  = 235; no-PD: n  = 235) were identified. PD patients demonstrated higher rates of overall and postoperative wound infection ( p  < 0.05), with comparable individual and overall complication and revision rates. PD did not increase odds of complications or revisions. PD patients had lengthier hospital stay (4.97 vs. 4.07 days, p  = 0.001) and higher proportion of second primary THA >2-years postoperatively (69.4% vs. 59.6%, p  = 0.027). Charlson/Deyo index was the greatest predictor of any surgical complication (OR  = 1.17, p  = 0.029). Female sex was the strongest predictor of any medical complication (OR  = 2.21, p  < 0.001).

Discussion:

Despite lengthier hospital stays and infection-related complications, PD patients experienced comparable complication and revision rates to patients from the general population undergoing THA.
Australian message sticks: Old questions, new directions
Authors: Kelly Piers
Published: July 2019

Message sticks are tools of graphic communication, once used across the Australian continent. While their styles vary, a typical message stick is a flattened or cylindrical length of wood with motifs engraved on all sides. Carried by special messengers over long distances, their motifs were intended to complement a verbally produced communication such as an invitation, a declaration of war, or news of a death. It was only in the late 1880s that message sticks first became a subject of formal anthropological enquiry at a time when the practice was already in steep transition; very little original research has been published in the 20th century and beyond. In this article, the author reviews colonial efforts to understand these objects, as recorded in documentary and museum archives, and describes transformations of message stick communication in contemporary settings. He summarizes the state-of-the-art in message stick research and identifies the still unanswered questions concerning their origins, adaptations and significance.
Understanding L1 and L2 interaction in collaborative writing: A lexico-grammatical analysis
Authors: Zhang Meixiu
Published: July 2019

Despite previous research suggesting that first language (L1) use fulfills important functions in collaborative writing (CW) tasks, research has yet to examine whether L1 or second language (L2) use may lead to variation in the lexico-grammatical aspects of learners’ collaborative texts and the pair talk. Using a corpus-based approach, this study examined how interacting in the L1 or the L2 during CW tasks influenced the use of lexico-grammatical features in learners’ co-constructed texts and the focus areas of their pair talk. The results suggest that L1 interaction significantly facilitates the production of lexico-grammatical features typical of academic writing in learners’ co-constructed texts. Additionally, compared with L2 interaction, L1 interaction allows learners to focus more on language and task management in pair talk. Methodological and pedagogical implications are discussed.
Engaging with and reflecting on the materiality of digital media technologies: Repair and fair production
Authors: Kannengießer Sigrid
Published: July 2019

How do people think about and engage with the materiality of digital media technologies and thereby try to transform the devices and society? The article discusses this question by presenting the results of two qualitative studies in which people reflect on and engage with the materiality of media technologies. In the first case, the repairing of media devices in Repair Cafés was analyzed, in the second, the focus was on the production and appropriation of the Fairphone, a smartphone which should be produced under fair working conditions. In both initiatives people reflect on the materiality of media technologies, criticize the production and disposal of the devices, and engage with the materiality of the apparatuses in order to change not only the technologies but also society as a whole by contributing to sustainability and the “good life.” The article adds to the field dealing with materiality and digital media technologies.
Artificial intelligence and communication: A Human–Machine Communication research agenda
Authors: Guzman Andrea L , Lewis Seth C
Published: July 2019

Artificial intelligence (AI) and people’s interactions with it—through virtual agents, socialbots, and language-generation software—do not fit neatly into paradigms of communication theory that have long focused on human–human communication. To address this disconnect between communication theory and emerging technology, this article provides a starting point for articulating the differences between communicative AI and previous technologies and introduces a theoretical basis for navigating these conditions in the form of scholarship within human–machine communication (HMC). Drawing on an HMC framework, we outline a research agenda built around three key aspects of communicative AI technologies: (1) the functional dimensions through which people make sense of these devices and applications as communicators, (2) the relational dynamics through which people associate with these technologies and, in turn, relate to themselves and others, and (3) the metaphysical implications called up by blurring ontological boundaries surrounding what constitutes human, machine, and communication.
Reduction in HbA1c using professional flash glucose monitoring in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients managed in primary and secondary care settings: A pilot, multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ajjan Ramzi A , Jackson Neil , Thomson Scott A
Published: July 2019

Aim:

Analyse the effects of professional flash glucose monitoring system (FreeStyle Libre Pro™) on glycaemic control in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

Primary (n = 17) and secondary care centres (n = 5) randomised 148 type 2 diabetes patients into three groups: (A) self-monitoring of blood glucose (n = 52), (B) self-monitoring of blood glucose and two Libre Pro sensor wears (n = 46) or (C) self-monitoring of blood glucose and four sensor wears (n = 50). Primary endpoint was time in range (glucose 3.9–10 mmol/L) within group C comparing baseline with days 172–187. Predefined secondary endpoints included HbA1c, hypoglycaemia and quality of life measures analysed within and between groups (clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02434315).

Results:

In group C, time in range in the first 14 days (baseline) and days 172–187 was similar at 15.0 ± 5.0 and 14.1 ± 4.7 h/day (mean ± SD), respectively, (p = 0.1589). In contrast, HbA1c reduced from baseline to study end within group C by 4.9 ± 8.8 mmol/mol (0.44% ± 0.81%; p = 0.0003). HbA1c was also lower in group C compared with A at study end by 5.4 ± 1.79 mmol/mol (0.48% ± 0.16%; p = 0.0041, adjusted mean ± SE), without increased time in hypoglycaemia ( p = 0.1795). Treatment satisfaction scores improved in group C compared with A ( p = 0.0225) and no device-related serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

Libre Pro can improve HbA1c and treatment satisfaction without increasing hypoglycaemic exposure in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes individuals managed in primary/secondary care centres.
The Third Place Game
Authors: Nissim Netanel , Sela Aner
Published: July 2019

We study an elimination tournament with four contestants, each of whom has either a high value of winning (a strong player) or a low value of winning (a weak player) and these values are common knowledge. Each pairwise match is modeled as an all-pay auction. The winners of the first stage (semifinal) compete in the second stage (final) for the first prize, while the losers of the first stage compete for the third prize. We examine whether or not the game for the third prize is profitable for the designer who wishes to maximize the total effort of the players. We demonstrate that if the players are asymmetric and there are at least two strong players, then there is always a seeding of the players such that the third place game is not profitable. On the other hand, if there are at least two weak players, then there is always a seeding of the players such that the third place game is profitable.
Interference cancelation for high-density fifth-generation relaying network using stochastic geometrical approach
Authors: Hindia MHD Nour , Qamar Faizan , Abbas Talib , Dimyati Kaharudin , Abu Talip Mohamad Sofian , Amiri Iraj Sadegh
Published: July 2019

In order to resolve the issue of coverage limitation for the future fifth-generation network, deploying a relay node within a cell is one of the most capable and cost-effective solution, which not only enhances the coverage but also improves the spectral efficiency. However, this solution leads to the undesired interferences from nearby base station and relay nodes that affects user’s signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio and can cause the ambiguous received signal at the user end. In this article, we have analyzed a relay-based interference-limited network at millimeter wave frequency and proposed a Poisson point process–based model using a stochastic geometrical approach. The results for the proposed Poisson point process model have been evaluated in terms of success probability, network ergodic capacity, and outage probability, compared with the ideal grid model and conventional multiple-antenna ultra-dense network model. The results proved that the success probability and ergodic capacity for the proposed model are 3.5% and 2.3% higher as compared to the most commonly used model for the high-density network, respectively. Furthermore, the results have been analyzed at different multiple-input-multiple-output antenna configuration, which validates the model in the improvement of overall network performance even for higher number of antennas.
Assessing the effectiveness of flying ad hoc networks for international border surveillance
Authors: Al Fayez Fayez , Hammoudeh Mohammad , Adebisi Bamidele , Abdul Sattar Khalid Nazim
Published: July 2019

International border security operations are diverse and include tasks to facilitate the legitimate movement of goods, thwart crime, maintain safety around borders and safeguard natural resources. All these operations are vital and enduring; however, three operations are currently of exceptional concern to countries around the world: counterterrorism, illegal drug control and illegal migration. The usage of flying ad hoc networks promises new ways for both military and civilian applications, such as border surveillance and remote sensing. Many systems were developed to assist border authorities with more effective surveillance and reliable decision-making support. Such systems vary in terms of the used technology, accuracy, types of events that can be detected and monitoring continuity. This article investigates the technical capabilities of existing and emerging surveillance technologies used for international border monitoring applications. It describes the effectiveness of these systems along with the technological infrastructure required for their implementation. Particular attention has been given to identifying the strengths and weaknesses of these systems and their ability to meet current and future challenges. Our analysis shows that flying ad hoc networks can be used to deliver a rapidly deployable, self-configurable, flexible and relatively small operating cost network for border surveillance.
Digital printing of electroluminescent devices on textile substrates
Authors: Graßmann Carsten , Grethe Thomas , van Langenhove Lieva , Schwarz-Pfeiffer Anne
Published: July 2019

Alternating current–driven electroluminescent devices on polyester fabrics were realized using a combination of coating and printing. The PEDOT:PSS front electrode was coated onto the fabric using knife coating. All other layers were digitally printed using a specially modified three-dimensional printer and three-dimensional printing software. Slicing parameters (line distance, printing speed, printing pattern) as well as other hardware parameters and ink viscosity were evaluated for each ink to obtain a good print. Final results show a complex interaction of all investigated parameters. Fully digitally printed electroluminescent devices show a luminescence of 44 lx, but combinations of digital printing and knife coating show a much higher luminescence of up to 128 lx for samples with an even smaller luminous layer thickness.