bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinico-Radio-Pathological and Molecular Features of Hepatocellular Carcinomas with Keratin 19 Expression
Authors: Rhee Hyungjin , Kim Haeryoung , Park Young Nyun
Published: October 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a heterogeneous neoplasm, both from the molecular and histomorphological aspects. One example of heterogeneity is the expression of keratin 19 (K19) in a subset (4–28%) of HCCs. The presence of K19 expression in HCCs has important clinical implications, as K19-positive HCCs have been associated with aggressive tumor biology and poor prognosis. Histomorphologically, K19-positive HCCs demonstrate a more infiltrative appearance, poor histological differentiation, more frequent vascular invasion, and more intratumoral fibrous stroma than K19-negative conventional HCCs. From the molecular aspect, K19-positive HCCs have been matched with various gene signatures that have been associated with stemness and poor prognosis, including the G1–3 groups, S2 class, cluster A, proliferation signature, and vascular invasion signature. K19-positive HCCs also show upregulated signatures related to transforming growth factor-β pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The main regulators of K19 expression include hepatocyte growth factor-MET paracrine signaling by cancer-associated fibroblast, epidermal growth factor-epidermal growth factor receptor signaling, laminin, and DNA methylation. Clinically, higher serum alpha-fetoprotein levels, frequent association with chronic hepatitis B, more invasive growth, and lymph node metastasis have been shown to be characteristics of K19-positive HCCs. Radiologic features including atypical enhancement patterns, absence of tumor capsules, and irregular tumor margins can be a clue for K19-positive HCCs. From a therapeutic standpoint, K19-positive HCCs have been associated with poor outcomes after curative resection or liver transplantation, and resistance to systemic chemotherapy and locoregional treatment, including transarterial chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation. In this review, we summarize the currently available knowledge on the clinico-radio-pathological and molecular features of K19-expressing HCCs, including a detailed discussion on the regulation mechanism of these tumors.
Understanding Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Replication to Design Efficient Drug Combination Therapies
Authors: Ortega Joseph T. , Zambrano Jose L. , Jastrzebska Beata , Liprandi Ferdinando , Rangel Hector R. , Pujol Flor H.
Published: October 2020

Background: The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its disease CO­VID-19 has strongly encouraged the search for antiviral compounds. Most of the evaluated drugs against SARS-CoV-2 derive from drug repurposing of Food and Drug Administration-approved molecules. These drugs have as target three major processes: (1) early stages of virus-cell interaction, (2) viral proteases, and (3) the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Summary: This review focused on the basic principles of virology and pharmacology to understand the importance of early stages of virus-cell interaction as therapeutic targets and other main processes vital for SARS-CoV-2 replication. Furthermore, we focused on describing the main targets associated with SARS-CoV-2 antiviral therapy and the rationale of drug combinations for efficiently suppressing viral replication. Key Messages: We hypothesized that blocking of both entry mechanisms could allow a more effective antiviral effect compared to the partial results obtained with chloroquine or its derivatives alone. This approach, already used to achieve an antiviral effect higher than that offered by every single drug administered separately, has been successfully applied in several viral infections such as HIV and HCV. This review will contribute to expanding the perception of the possible therapeutic targets in SARS-CoV-2 infection and highlight the benefits of using combination therapies.
Predictive Accuracy of Heart Failure-Specific Risk Equations in an Electronic Health Record-Based Cohort
Authors: Bavishi Aakash , Bruce Matthew , Ning Hongyan , Freaney Priya M. , Glynn Peter , Ahmad Faraz S. , Yancy Clyde W. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Allen Norrina B. , Vupputuri Suma X. , Rasmussen-Torvik Laura J. , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Khan Sadiya S.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Guidelines recommend identification of individuals at risk for heart failure (HF). However, implementation of risk-based prevention strategies requires validation of HF-specific risk scores in diverse, real-world cohorts. Therefore, our objective was to assess the predictive accuracy of the Pooled Cohort Equations to Prevent HF within a primary prevention cohort derived from the electronic health record.

Methods:

We retrospectively identified patients between the ages of 30 to 79 years in a multi-center integrated healthcare system, free of cardiovascular disease, with available data on HF risk factors, and at least 5 years of follow-up. We applied the Pooled Cohort Equations to Prevent HF tool to calculate sex and race-specific 5-year HF risk estimates. Incident HF was defined by the
International Classification of Diseases
codes. We assessed model discrimination and calibration, comparing predicted and observed rates for incident HF.

Results:

Among 31 256 eligible adults, mean age was 51.4 years, 57% were women and 11% Black. Incident HF occurred in 568 patients (1.8%) over 5-year follow-up. The modified Pooled Cohort Equations to Prevent HF model for 5-year risk prediction of HF had excellent discrimination in White men (C-statistic 0.82 [95% CI, 0.79–0.86]) and women (0.82 [0.78–0.87]) and adequate discrimination in Black men (0.69 [0.60–0.78]) and women (0.69 [0.52–0.76]). Calibration was fair in all race-sex subgroups (χ
2
<20).

Conclusions:

A novel sex- and race-specific risk score predicts incident HF in a real-world, electronic health record-based cohort. Integration of HF risk into the electronic health record may allow for risk-based discussion, enhanced surveillance, and targeted preventive interventions to reduce the public health burden of HF.
BRD4 (Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4) Interacts with GATA4 (GATA Binding Protein 4) to Govern Mitochondrial Homeostasis in Adult Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Padmanabhan Arun , Alexanian Michael , Linares-Saldana Ricardo , González-Terán Bárbara , Andreoletti Gaia , Huang Yu , Connolly Andrew J. , Kim Wonho , Hsu Austin , Duan Qiming , Winchester Sarah A.B. , Felix Franco , Perez-Bermejo Juan A. , Wang Qiaohong , Li Li , Shah Parisha P. , Haldar Saptarsi M. , Jain Rajan , Srivastava Deepak
Published: October 2020

Background:

Gene regulatory networks control tissue homeostasis and disease progression in a cell type–specific manner. Ubiquitously expressed chromatin regulators modulate these networks, yet the mechanisms governing how tissue specificity of their function is achieved are poorly understood. BRD4 (bromodomain-containing protein 4), a member of the BET (bromo- and extraterminal domain) family of ubiquitously expressed acetyl-lysine reader proteins, plays a pivotal role as a coactivator of enhancer signaling across diverse tissue types in both health and disease and has been implicated as a pharmacological target in heart failure. However, the cell-specific role of BRD4 in adult cardiomyocytes remains unknown.

Methods:

We combined conditional mouse genetics, unbiased transcriptomic and epigenomic analyses, and classic molecular biology and biochemical approaches to understand the mechanism by which BRD4 in adult cardiomyocyte homeostasis.

Results:

Here, we show that cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of
Brd4
in adult mice leads to acute deterioration of cardiac contractile function with mutant animals demonstrating a transcriptomic signature characterized by decreased expression of genes critical for mitochondrial energy production. Genome-wide occupancy data show that BRD4 enriches at many downregulated genes (including the master coactivators
Ppargc1a, Ppargc1b
, and their downstream targets) and preferentially colocalizes with GATA4 (GATA binding protein 4), a lineage-determining cardiac transcription factor not previously implicated in regulation of adult cardiac metabolism. BRD4 and GATA4 form an endogenous complex in cardiomyocytes and interact in a bromodomain-independent manner, revealing a new functional interaction partner for BRD4 that can direct its locus and tissue specificity.

Conclusions:

These results highlight a novel role for a BRD4-GATA4 module in cooperative regulation of a cardiomyocyte-specific gene program governing bioenergetic homeostasis in the adult heart.
Co-publishing with Africa North–South–North
Authors: Jay Mary
Published: October 2020

The decolonization of African studies extends beyond content to ethical partnerships between the North and the African continent. One key component of realizing partnership is through publishing. African studies research published by Northern publishers is not often even minimally available in Africa; and this is despite scholars on the continent often being partners or facilitators in research undertaken by Northern scholars. Northern publishers have perceived no commercial gain, given small African markets, lack of purchasing power, and lack of distribution systems. Conversely, African publishers have efficient distribution into the North through African Books Collective, owned and governed by them. But in suitable rare cases the African publisher can broker co-publications with Northern publishers who want the originating rights. In the light of these issues, African Books Collective launched an initiative to seek to break the deadlock. In partnership with the International African Institute, and with the active support of the African Studies Associations of the UK and the US, work is proceeding with publishers in the North and the South to broker co-publishing or co-editions to address this historic marginalization of Africa.
Why We Buy Books
Authors: Bunyard Daniel
Published: October 2020

Publishing is often characterized by instinctive decision-making with little attempt to apply a scientific methodology to an obvious question: why does one book sell and another not? The thesis of this paper is that, although there are aspects of a book’s publication history that one cannot predict in advance, one can know what these aspects are. A simple syllogism underlies the argument: if human behaviour can be understood through psychology and if book-buying is a form of behaviour, the motivations for book-buying can also be understood through psychology. This approach can be applied historically, through recourse to sales data, to trace the fossils of books published long ago and so discover the type and strength of the motivations that once drove people to buy them. History demonstrates that these motivations, once properly framed, can be understood to be influenced by context. Book-buying motivations also appear cyclically. This leads to a discussion of why it is that one book rather than another may satisfy a motivation and therefore sell better than another. Using the concept of prisms combining to reflect a motivational ‘light’, we see that books exist as constructs of a finite range of elements that cohere (or not) in a multiplicative way to enhance or diminish their effectiveness. Evidence is also given for what appears to be a universal ratio that dictates a natural entropy in the effectiveness of these prismatic elements.
Hoya nyingchiensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Tibet, China

Authors: ZUO YOU-WEI , LAN XIAO-ZHONG , DENG HONG-PING , ZHAO FANG-YU , YUAN XIAO-FENG
Published: October 2020

Hoya nyingchiensis Y.W.Zuo & H.P.Deng, sp. nov. from Nyingchi, Tibet Autonomous Region (China), is described, illustrated and compared with related species. H. nyingchiensis appears to be related to H. chinghungensis, H. bella and H. kingdonwardii due to the similar growth habit, but it can be easily distinguished by the shape of leaves, leaf surfaces, inflorescence, calyx, corolla structure and corona shape.
New records of Stenopygium Becker (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) from the Neotropical Region, and a key to species
Authors: SOARES MATHEUS M. M. , ALE-ROCHA ROSALY
Published: October 2020

The Neotropical genus Stenopygium Becker (Diptera: Dolichopodidae: Dolichopodinae) was erected to include S. nubeculum Becker, 1922 (described from Bolivia and Peru) and remained monotypic until Brooks (2005) transferred Pelastoneurus punctipennis (Say, 1829) to the genus. Diagnostic characters of Stenopygium include clypeus bulging and subequal in height to face (Figs 1, 9), vein M1 beyond crossvein dm-m with weak anterior bend before middle (Figs 4, 12), hypopygium subtriangular (Figs 6, 14) and phallus strongly wrinkled (Brooks 2005, figs 28B, 29A–B). Up to now, the genus was recorded from Mexico, Costa Rica, Peru and Bolivia (Yang et al. 2006).
Quasi-Equilibrium and Weak Temperature Gradient Balances in an Equatorial Beta-Plane Model
Authors: Ahmed Fiaz , Neelin J. David , Adames Ángel F.
Published: October 2020

Convective quasi-equilibrium (QE) and weak temperature gradient (WTG) balances are frequently employed to study the tropical atmosphere. This study uses linearized equatorial beta-plane solutions to examine the relevant regimes for these balances. Wave solutions are characterized by moisture–temperature ratio (q–T ratio) and dominant thermodynamic balances. An empirically constrained precipitation closure assigns different sensitivities of convection to temperature (εt) and moisture (εq). Longwave equatorial Kelvin and Rossby waves tend toward the QE balance with q–T ratios of εt:εq that can be ~1–3. Departures from strict QE, essential to both precipitation and wave dynamics, grow with wavenumber. The propagating QE modes have reduced phase speeds because of the effective gross moist stability meff, with a further reduction when εt > 0. Moisture modes obeying the WTG balance and with large q–T ratios (>10) emerge in the shortwave regime; these modes exist with both Kelvin and Rossby wave meridional structures. In the υ = 0 case, long propagating gravity waves are absent and only emerge beyond a cutoff wavenumber. Two bifurcations in the wave solutions are identified and used to locate the spatial scales for QE–WTG transition and gravity wave emergence. These scales are governed by the competition between the convection and gravity wave adjustment times and are modulated by meff. Near-zero values of meff shift the QE–WTG transition wavenumber toward zero. Continuous transitions replace the bifurcations when meff < 0 or moisture advection/WISHE mechanisms are included, but the wavenumber-dependent QE and WTG balances remain qualitatively unaltered. Rapidly decaying convective/gravity wave modes adjust to the slowly evolving QE/WTG state in the longwave/shortwave regimes, respectively.
On the Formation Mechanism of the Seasonal Persistence Barrier
Authors: Jin Yishuai , Liu Zhengyu , He Chengfei , Zhao Yuchu
Published: October 2020

The mechanism of the seasonal persistence barrier (SPB) is studied in the framework of an autoregressive (AR) model. In contrast to the seasonal variance, whose minimum is modulated mainly by the minimum growth rate or noise forcing, the SPB is caused primarily by the declining growth rate or increasing noise forcing, instead of the minimum/maximum of the growth rate or noise forcing. In other words, the SPB is caused by the declining signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) rather than the weakest SNR. In a weakly damped system, the phase of the SPB is delayed from that of declining SNR by about a season. The mechanism is further applied to explain the observed SST variability in the tropical and North Pacific. For the tropical Pacific, the spring SPB could be caused by the decreasing growth rate from September to March and weak annual mean damping rate, instead of the minimum growth rate in spring. Over the North Pacific, the increasing noise forcing from March to June may lead to the summer SPB. Our mechanism provides a null hypothesis for understanding the SPB of climate variability.
Management of the Embedded Tracheoesophageal Prosthesis: Retrograde Removal and Replacement
Authors: Burks Ciersten A. , Feng Allen L. , Deschler Daniel G.
Published: October 2020

Objective:

To describe the retrograde removal of a tracheoesophageal (TE) prosthesis embedded in the common wall between the trachea and esophagus with preservation of the original tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) tract with subsequent placement of new tracheoesophageal prosthesis for voice restoration.

Methods:

The Blom-Singer TEP Set (InHealth Technologies, Carpinteria, CA) was used to facilitate this procedure. The coated wire leader cable was threaded through the small opening in the posterior tracheal wall and into the lumen of the old TE prosthesis. The wire was pulled through the mouth in retrograde fashion - bringing the old TE prosthesis out with it and dilating the existing TEP tract. A new prosthesis was then placed over the end of the wire and returned through the stoma, delivering the prosthesis through the TE tract and into the stoma.

Results:

Safe, voice restoration with avoidance of need for multiple procedures.

Conclusion:

Removal of an embedded prosthesis and simultaneous replacement of a new prosthesis was safely and efficiently achieved using a retrograde technique which maintained the patency of the prior TE tract and restored voice.
Minocycline as adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder: Pooled data from two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zazula Robson , Husain Muhammad Ishrat , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Walker Adam J , Chaudhry Imran B , Khoso Ameer B , Ashton Melanie M , Agustini Bruno , Husain Nusrat , Deakin JFW , Young Allan H , Berk Michael , Kanchanatawan Buranee , Ng Chee H , Maes Michael , Berk Lesley , Singh Ajeet B , Malhi Gin S , Dean Olivia M
Published: October 2020

Background:

Randomized controlled clinical trials that have investigated minocycline as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder have proved promising. Data from two studies were pooled to evaluate more definitively whether the addition of minocycline to standard treatment for major depressive disorder leads to an improvement of depressive symptoms when compared with placebo.

Methods:

Both studies were multi-site, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials of minocycline 200 mg/day added to treatment as usual during a 12-week period. The primary outcome measure was change in depressive symptoms (Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale in Dean et al. and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale in Husain et al.). Secondary outcomes were change in depression severity (Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale for Dean et al. and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire in Husain et al.), anxiety severity (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale in Dean et al. and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale in Husain et al.) and functional status, which were also evaluated as potential mediators on the primary outcome.

Results:

A total of 112 participants were included in the pooled data (Dean et al., n = 71; Husain et al., n = 41). A significant change from baseline to week 12 was noted in depressive symptoms – differential change (Placebo vs Minocycline): 9.0, 95% confidence interval = [4.2, 13.9], Cohen’s D (95% confidence interval): 0.71 [0.29, 1.14], p < 0.001 – anxiety severity – differential change (Placebo vs Minocycline): 0.38, confidence interval = [0.00, 0.75], Cohen’s D (95% confidence interval): 0.41 [0.00, 0.82], p = 0.050) and functional status – differential change (Placebo vs Minocycline): 1.0, 95% confidence interval = [0.4, 1.5], Cohen’s D (95% confidence interval): 0.76 [0.34, 1.19], p = 0.001). Duration of illness, current use of benzodiazepine and pain medication were identified as moderators, whereas functional status as a mediator/predictor.

Conclusion:

The improvement of depressive symptoms, anxiety severity and functional status is promising and suggests that minocycline has potential as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder. However, further studies are warranted to confirm therapeutic effects of minocycline in major depressive disorder.

Trial registrations:

NCT02263872, registered October 2014, and ACTRN12612000283875, registered March 2012.
Numerical simulation of the influence of pipe length on explosion flame propagation in open-ended and close-ended pipes
Authors: Li Xue , Zhou Ning , Liu Xuanya , Huang Weiqiu , Chen Bing , Rasouli Vamegh
Published: October 2020

The pipeline length exerts great influence on flame propagation characteristics, Realizable [Formula: see text] model and Premixed combustion model were used to study the influence of pipe length on propane-air explosion flame in open-ended and close-ended pipes. Using the numerical model verified by experiments, the changes of flame structure and flame propagation speed are studied. The result showed that the Realizable model was in good agreement with the experimental results. It also proved that the reflected wave produced a strong interference on the flame front, which promoted the formation of tulip flame. Besides, some obvious vortices were usually generated in the burned gas after the tulip flame formed, which will affect the flow field around the flame front and thus exert influence on the flame structure. The formation mechanism of tulip flame as well as the flame self-acceleration is different in open-ended and close-ended pipes. In close-ended pipes, the reflection wave at the pipe end and the reflection-induced countercurrent both promote the formation of tulip flame. As the flame propagates to the pipe end, the flame propagation is inhibited by the compression wave formed by the rapid expansion of combustion products under high temperature. While, in open-ended pipes, the turbulence induced by the opening at the pipe end is the main cause of tulip flame formation. The flame acceleration depends on the combustion reaction of unburned gas, so the velocity of flame propagation continues to increase. Generally, the maximum flame propagation velocity in the open-ended pipe is larger than that in the close-ended pipe.
The Impact of Organized Labor on CEO Debt-Like Compensation
Authors: King Tao-Hsien Dolly , Nishikawa Takeshi , Prevost Andrew K.
Published: October 2020

We examine the impact of organized labor on the debt-like components of CEO compensation. In initial findings, we demonstrate a positive association between unionization intensity with measures of debt-like compensation intensity used in the extant literature. This finding is robust to alternative measures of union-bargaining strength and empirical approaches. Consistent with the view that managers substitute cash for accrued compensation to improve their bargaining position over labor, this result is robustly driven by the deferred component of debt-like compensation. Our results collectively suggest that unions play an important role in the use of deferred compensation.
The Rebuilding of Fragmented Memories, Broken Families and Rootless Selves among Danish Care Leavers
Authors: Jensen Stine Grønbæk
Published: October 2020

Many care leavers share a sense of fragmented or absent memories and a feeling of being abandoned and rootless. In this article I examine how some care leavers in a Danish context attempt to reconstruct fragmented memories and fragile relationships through tangible and creative practices and processes by which memories and relations are created, repaired, strengthened, and shaped. Understanding their engagement with the past as transformative memory-work, and family and kinship as acquired through practice, I describe some of the specific preconditions for care leavers when it comes to memory-making and family formation. Next, I illustrate how care leavers in different ways deal with broken family ties and how their practices and reflections transform their personal history and the way they relate to others and position themselves in society.
More continuous flow, better learning? The effect of aortic valve opening in patients with left ventricular assist device
Authors: Karahan Mehmet , Kocabeyoglu Sinan Sabit , Kervan Umit , Sert Dogan Emre , Erdogan Bakar Emel , Aygun Emre , Tola Muharrem , Demirkan Burcu , Mungan Semra , Catav Zeki , Pac Mustafa
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to analyze neurocognitive function in patients who underwent continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation.

Material and Method:

This cross-sectional study included three groups: LVAD ( n = 31), heart failure patients ( n = 26), and healthy volunteers ( n = 27). The Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Judgement of Line Orientation Test (JLOT), Trail Making Test (TMT), Stroop Color-Word Interference Test (SCWIT), Verbal Fluency Test (VFT), Symbol-Digit Modality Test (SDMT) were used to assess the neurocognitive functions. Data were analyzed at a median 12 (3–47) months after LVAD implantation. The LVAD patients were also divided by aortic valve opening (AVO) into three subgroups as “closed” ( n = 9), “1–6” ( n = 8) and “7–10” ( n = 14) opening per ten beats and data were re-analyzed accordingly.

Results:

There was no significant difference among the groups according to SCWIT, JLOT, SDMT, TMT, and VFT scores. Post-hoc analyzes of RAVLT scores showed significant differences between the LVAD and the other two groups in favor of the LVAD group. Also, the patients with AVO “7–10” the response times were longer and learning scores were found to be lower than those without AVO.

Conclusion:

With continuous-flow LVAD, neurocognitive functions were not impaired. The learning performance was better in cases where there was no AVO and flow was completely device dependent. We may speculate that neurocognitive functions are not worsening with continuous cerebral blood flow and even it may improve learning performance.
Abamectin poisoning with severely abnormal electroencephalogram: A case report
Authors: Xing Zhao-Yang
Published: October 2020

Cases of abamectin poisoning have been reported previously, but cases of severe brain dysfunction after poisoning are rarely reported, and abnormal electroencephalograms (EEGs) have not been reported. We report a case of a 46-year-old female who intentionally drank 400 mL of 5% abamectin pesticide. We describe in detail the clinical and EEG characteristics of the patient. The patient was discharged in good condition after 10 days. The study indicates that serious brain dysfunction and abnormal EEG caused by abamectin poisoning are treatable. Despite poor clinical and EEG findings at the outset, recovery is still possible. This is the first report on EEG after abamectin poisoning.
Effect of cadmium on the viability on monolayer cultures of synoviocytes, chondrocytes, and Hoffa: A preliminary study
Authors: Fernández-Torres J , Plata-Rodríguez R , Zamudio-Cuevas Y , Martínez-Nava GA , Landa-Solís C , Mendoza Soto L , Olivos-Meza A , Suárez-Ahedo C , Barbier OC , Narváez-Morales J , Martínez-Flores K
Published: October 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the gradual loss of articular cartilage and involves several tissues, such as the synovial membrane, meniscus, ligaments, and adipose tissue known as Hoffa fat pad. There are largely unexplored factors that lead to OA development, such as the impact of exposure to heavy metals like cadmium (Cd) on the viability of cells in the knee joint tissue. The objective of this report was to identify the cell type with the highest susceptibility to Cd toxicity with respect to cell viability and death. Our findings showed that a concentration as low as 3 μM cadmium chloride for 12 h affects the viability of synovial cells, and a concentration of 10 μM affects Hoffa cells. Our results suggest that Cd can affect the viability of synovial and chondral cells primarily. In contrast, Hoffa cells were less susceptible, likely because Cd favors the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines before triggering their death as part of its damage mechanism at the articular level.
Mechanical and electrochemical behavior of Mg-Al-Si alloys fabricated with formation of fine Mg2Si phase
Authors: Seth Prem Prakash , Parkash Om , Kumar Devendra
Published: October 2020

In the present work, Mg-Si-Al alloys were synthesized with the addition of silicon (1, 4, and 6 wt. %) and aluminum (6 wt.%) in magnesium. The objective of this study was the formation of fine Mg2Si phase via powder metallurgy process using high energy ball milling and to investigate the microstructural, mechanical, and corrosion behavior of different composition of alloys. With increasing wt. % of Si, average grain size of Mg2Si phase decreased and compressive fracture strain increased. According to fractographic patterns, it was revealed that AS61 alloy specimens fractured along the grain boundaries. However pure Mg, AS64 & AS66 specimens show shear plane fracture via twinning. The compressive yield strength of pure Mg and AS64 alloy were significantly affected by the twinning. The compressive yield strength of pure Mg and AS64 alloy were lower than AS61 alloy. To understand electrochemical, mechanical and structural integrity of the prepared alloys, tests for corrosion in 0.6 M NaCl solution, bulk density, porosity, and Vickers hardness were also performed.
Effect of air jet with injection pressure on the performance of mixed compression air intake
Authors: Gahlot NK , Singh NK
Published: October 2020

A computational study on the performance of mixed compression supersonic air intake has been carried out with and without air jet at various operating conditions. Commercially available software ANSYS was used and K-ω SST turbulence model was selected to capture the turbulent flow inside the air intake. All the simulations were simulated at a design Mach number of 2.2. Two Air jet of 1 mm diameter each and perpendicular to the local ramp surface have been placed in longitudinal direction at 0.47 times the total length of the air intake. Effect of variation of injection pressure on the flow field of air intake has been studied. Injection pressure has been varied with respect to the free stream pressure. Four different cases of injection pressure have been investigated. Three different positions (1.far away before the air jet, 2. immediately after the air jet and 3. far away behind the air jet) of normal shock were simulated to study the effect of air jet by varying the back pressure of the supersonic air intake. Significant reduction in the flow separation due the normal shock wave was noticed for all the cases of injection pressure, which further helps in improving the performance of the supersonic air intake. Important performance parameters such as flow distortion, mass flow ratio and total pressure recovery were calculated to measure the efficacy of supersonic air intake with air jet at various operating conditions.
High HIV prevalence among transgender women in Paraguay
Authors: Aguilar Gloria , Samudio Tania , Lopez Gladys , Jimenez Liliana , Wilson Erin C , McFarland Willi , Rios-Gonzalez Carlos , Muñoz Sergio
Published: October 2020

Transgender women have been understudied and underserved in Paraguay; data are urgently needed to understand their HIV prevention and care needs. To estimate HIV prevalence and related risk and preventive behaviors among trans women in Paraguay, we conducted a cross-sectional survey in 2017. We employed starfish sampling – a hybrid venue-based and peer-referral method combining recruitment at randomly sampled venues and randomly selected clients from program lists, followed by short-chain referrals of eligible peers. Among 304 trans women enrolled, HIV prevalence was 24.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18.5–31.2%), with risk increasing with age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.06 per year, 95% CI 1.03–1.10), residence in Asunción department (AOR 4.75, 95% CI 1.57–14.36), and cocaine use (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.11–3.95). Trans women in Paraguay need to be prioritized for interventions with high HIV prevention efficacy. Substance use interventions to address cocaine use may also yield prevention benefits for trans women in our context.
Hybrid self-adaptive biobjective optimization of multiple robot scheduling problem for mixed-model assembly lines considering energy savings
Authors: Zhou Binghai , Fei Qianran
Published: October 2020

With the wide application of robots in the material distribution process on the assembly lines, single robot scheduling cannot meet the actual production needs. However, the high degree of mechanization also brings about environmental problems. Therefore, this article aims to develop a scheduling methodology to accomplish material supply tasks using multiple robots with energy consumption consideration. Meanwhile, a targeted mathematical model to minimize total weighted penalty costs and total energy consumption is developed. Due to the NP-hard nature of the problem, an adaptive hybrid mutation population extremal optimization multi-objective algorithm based on uniform distribution selection is proposed to solve multi-objective problems. Furthermore, a new coding method for initialization is designed to optimize the whole iterative process. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by comparing with three benchmark multi-objective algorithms. Computational experiments are represented to prove the validity and feasibility of the proposed algorithm.
Exploring the Impact of Health Care Provider Cultural Competence on New Immigrant Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study of Canadian Newcomers
Authors: Zghal Afef , El-Masri Maher , McMurphy Suzanne , Pfaff Kathryn
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

New immigrants underutilize health care because of multiple barriers. Although culturally competent health care improves access, it is typically assessed by providers, not newcomers whose perceptions matter most.

Methodology:

Surveys that included measures of cultural competence and health-related quality of life (QOL) were completed by 117 new immigrants in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. A series of stepwise linear regression analyses were conducted to identify independent predictors of QOL and its four domains: physical health, psychological, social relationships, and environment.

Results:

Our adjusted results suggest that experiences of discrimination was negatively associated with overall QOL (β = −.313; p < .001) and its psychological (β = −.318; p < .001), social (β = −.177; p = .048), and environmental (β = −.408; p < .001) domains.

Discussion:

Discrimination negatively influences new immigrant QOL. Provider cultural competency training should emphasize the influence of provider discrimination on immigrant health and explore learners’ values and biases.
Machine learning-based design features decision support tool via customers purchasing data analysis
Authors: Zhang Jian , Chu Xingpeng , Simeone Alessandro , Gu Peihua
Published: October 2020

Decision-making on design features such as specifications and components is an essential aspect of new product development. Customers product preferences and their variations provide the basis of design features decision. Big data of product sales are an emerging source for the obtaining of customers preferences on product features. In this work, a machine learning-based design features decision support tool is proposed through big sales data analysis. Customers preferred product features and their combinations are predicted based on the sales data. Physical feasibility of the product features combinations is considered for customers preference analysis. Cluster analysis method is proposed to identify common and alternative design of product features. Based on specification/component relationships, design features decisions of product components are carried out by grouping product component into noncritical, common, and alternative components. A case study on electric toy cars was included to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
NOx sensor cross sensitivity model and simultaneous prediction of NOx and NH3 slip from automotive catalytic converters under real driving conditions
Authors: Pla Benjamín , Piqueras Pedro , Bares Pau , Aronis André
Published: October 2020

This work presents the development of a model to capture the NOx sensors cross sensitivity behavior based on [Formula: see text] sensor cell temperature, as well as a model do predict the slip of the NOx and NH3 after the SCR catalyst, as a way to reduce the error in the exhaust emissions estimation needed for feedback SCR control strategies. The emissions prediction model is based on the different cross sensitivity behavior of two distinct NOx sensors. The proposed models were tested and compared on a fully instrumented engine test bench when applied in a Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) and a full map cycle. As a result, the proposed model showed for NOx sensors cross sensitivity estimation an overall improvement of 34.8% for sensor 1 and 31.0% for sensor 2, and in terms of emissions prediction an overall improvement of 36.3% for NOx and 45.5% for NH3 slip.
Mediators and Effect Modifiers of the Causal Pathway Between Child Exposure to Domestic Violence and Internalizing Behaviors Among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Carter Bethan , Paranjothy Shantini , Davies Alisha , Kemp Alison
Published: October 2020

Childhood exposure to domestic violence (DV) can lead to mental health problems including internalizing symptoms. This systematic literature review aimed to identify individual-, familial-, and community-level factors that mediate or modify the effect of DV exposure on internalizing symptoms among children and adolescents. This systematic literature review was registered with PROSPERO, registration number: CRD42019127012. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were searched between 1990 and 2018 for peer-reviewed, quantitative, longitudinal studies published in English. Backreferencing and key journal hand searches were conducted. Twelve longitudinal studies were included. These investigated how factors amenable to change either mediate or modify the effect of exposure to DV on internalizing symptoms (using validated measures) in children and adolescents up to 18 years within a general population. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa risk of bias tool, and a sample of studies were second reviewed by authors. One individual-level mediator was identified, namely emotional intelligence, and two effect modifiers were identified: relational victimization and participation in extracurricular activities. Familial mediators included maladaptive parenting and parenting stress, while effect modifiers included positive parenting (maternal warmth and availability) and family social support. No community-level factors were identified. All research was conducted in the United States, most focused on risk, and the majority measured outcomes in middle childhood. Nevertheless, these findings suggest that interventions provided to families exposed to intimate partner violence need to target both child and familial factors in order to successfully reduce children’s internalizing symptoms.
A tags’ arrival rate estimation method using weighted grey model(1,1) and sliding window in mobile radio frequency identification systems
Authors: Zhang Liqian , Fu Xueliang , Li Honghui
Published: October 2020

In order to guarantee the tag identification accuracy and efficiency in mobile radio frequency identification system, it is necessary to estimate the tags’ arrival rate before performing identification. This research aims to develop a novel estimation method based on improved grey model(1,1) and sliding window mechanism. By establishing tags’ dynamic arrival model, this article emphasizes the importance of tags’ arrival rate estimation in mobile radio frequency identification system. Using sliding window mechanism and weighted coefficients method, weighted grey model(1,1) with sliding window (WGMSW(1,1)) is proposed based on traditional grey model(1,1). For experimental verification, three kinds of data are used as original data in WGMSW(1,1). The experimental results show that the proposed method has lower estimation error rate, lower computation complexity, and high system stability.
Effects of Warmed and Humidified CO2 Surgical Site Insufflation in a Novel Experimental Model of Magnetic Compression Colonic Anastomosis
Authors: Marchegiani Francesco , Noll Eric , Riva Pietro , Kong Seong-Ho , Saccomandi Paola , Vita Giorgia , Lindner Véronique , Namer Izzie Jacques , Marescaux Jacques , Diemunsch Pierre , Diana Michele
Published: October 2020

Background. Pneumoperitoneum insufflation with warmed and humidified carbon dioxide (WH-CO2) can prevent heat loss and increase tissue oxygenation. We evaluated the impact of localized WH-CO2 insufflation on the anastomotic healing process. Methods. Sixty male Wistar rats were randomized: Group 1 (control, n = 12), Group 2 (cold and dry CO2, CD-CO2, n = 24), and Group 3 (WH-CO2, n = 24). A magnetic compression side-to-side colonic anastomosis was performed under 60-minute local abdominal CO2 flow insufflation. Animal temperature was recorded. IL-1, IL-6, and CRP levels were assessed before and after insufflation and on postoperative day (POD) 7 and POD 10. Endoscopic follow-up was performed on POD 7 and POD 10. A burst pressure (BP) test of the specimen was performed on POD 10, and histopathological analysis was then performed. Metabolomics of the anastomotic site was determined. Results. Seven rats (5 CD-CO2 group, 1 WH-CO2 group, and 1 control group) died during the survival period. Necropsies revealed intestinal occlusions (n = 2). One additional rat from the CD-CO2 group was sacrificed on POD 7 due to intestinal perforation. The postoperative course was uneventful in the remaining cases. There was no difference in BP among the groups. Thermal monitoring confirmed that WH-CO2 insufflation was effective to reduce heat loss. IL-1 levels were statistically and significantly lower on POD 10 in the WH-CO2 group than the CD-CO2 group but not lower than the control group. CRP levels, histopathology, and metabolomics did not show any difference between the 3 groups. Conclusions. WH-CO2 was effective to preserve core temperature. However, it did not improve anastomotic healing.
Disciplinary Dissent: The Troubled Implementation of a Restorative Justice Program at E.C. Johnson High School
Authors: Gilzene Alounso A.
Published: October 2020

As many schools and school districts across the nation consider replacing traditional behavioral management strategies with restorative practices, this case asks the readers to consider the challenges a school leader may face when attempting to implement school-wide procedural change. In this case, a school leader faced with race-based discipline disparities attempts to challenge this nationwide trend by bringing in a local organization to conduct restorative justice facilitation and reduce the school’s out-of-school suspension numbers. This proves to be challenging due to the systems that existed prior to this change and her difficulties in getting buy-in from her staff. This case may be used in leadership preparation courses as an example of the complexity and considerations involved when implementing restorative justice as an alternative discipline strategy.
Experimental cyclic variations of diesel engine burning pyrolysis castor oil blends
Authors: Attai Youssef A , Abu-Elyazeed Osayed SM , Elbeshbeshy Rashad , Gassour Hassan , Gad Mohammed S
Published: October 2020

Pyrolysis of castor oil with anhydrous sodium hydroxide as a catalyst was performed to produce Catalytic Castor pyrolytic oil (CCPO). The physical and chemical properties of the pyrolytic and gas oils were recorded according to ASTM standards. Gas oil was blended with castor pyrolytic oil at different volumetric ratios of 0%, 25%, 75%, and 100% as CCPO00, CCPO25, CCPO75, and CCPO100, respectively. Coefficient of variation (COV) of combustion parameters proved to be a profound method of assessing combustion characteristics and engine performance. COV of combustion parameters (IMEP, Pmax, and dP/dΘmax) for gas oil blends with pyrolysis oil were measured. Recorded pressure crank angle traces of 150 consecutive cycles were used for COV’s determination. A single cylinder diesel engine equipped with calibrated measuring techniques was used at different engine loads. Higher volumetric blending ratios of pyrolytic oil with diesel oil increased the COV’s within an acceptable range of engine operating conditions. Minor modifications might be valuable for engines fueled by pyrolysis oil blends to obtain smoother, lower noise operation, and combustion stability.
Exploring patient education unmet needs for rare and complex connective tissue and musculoskeletal diseases: A survey of health care providers’ and patients’ expectations in Europe
Authors: Farhat Meryem-Maud , Cornet Alain , Frank Charissa , Galetti Ilaria , Grunert Juergen , Guimarães Vera , Vieira Ana , Hachulla Eric
Published: October 2020

Objective

The European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Connective Tissue and Musculoskeletal Diseases involves health care providers (HCPs) from 8 European countries and 7 patients’ representatives of European Patient Advocacy Groups. The objective was to evaluate current practice and unmet needs for patient education (PE) in Europe.

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to HCP members asking about the PE practices and another, to enquire about their needs, was sent to patients’ associations in the different countries.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 33 HCPs. Half had no specific staff members dedicated to PE. For HCPs with dedicated staff, 83.3% (n = 11) considered that care providers were insufficient to meet patients’ needs. Most of HCPs would like to see the practice of PE standardized. Sixty eight percent (n = 1093) of patients suffering from connective tissue diseases completed the questionnaire had never heard about PE. Most of them were interested in taking part in a PE program.

Discussion

Our survey revealed a strong interest in PE among patients and HCP and heterogeneity of practice. PE appeared important for both HCPs and patients. An online course for medical students in Europe will be developed in partnership with EULAR to respond to these unmet needs.