bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronary risk stratification of patients with newly diagnosed heart failure
Authors: Hasselbalch Rasmus Bo , Pries-Heje Mia , Engstrøm Thomas , Sandø Andreas , Heitmann Merete , Pedersen Frants , Schou Morten , Mickley Hans , Elming Hanne , Steffensen Rolf , Koeber Lars , Iversen Kasper Karmark
Published: October 2019

Objective

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is frequent in patients with newly diagnosed heart failure (HF). Multislice CT (MSCT) is a non-invasive alternative to coronary angiography (CAG) suggested for patients with a low-to-intermediate risk of CAD. No established definition of such patients exists. Our purpose was to develop a simple score to identify as large a group as possible with a suitable pretest risk of CAD.

Methods

Retrospective study of patients in Denmark undergoing CAG due to newly diagnosed HF from 2010 to 2014. All Danish patients were registered in two databases according to geographical location. We used data from one registry and multiple logistic regression with backwards elimination to find predictors of CAD and used the derived OR to develop a clinical risk score called the CT-HF score, which was subsequently validated in the other database.

Results

The main cohort consisted of 2171 patients and the validation cohort consisted of 2795 patients with 24% and 27% of patients having significant CAD, respectively. Among significant predictor, the strongest was extracardiac arteriopathy (OR 2.84). Other significant factors were male sex, smoking, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, angina and age. A proposed cut-off of 9 points identified 61% of patients with a 15% risk of having CAD, resulting in an estimated savings of 15% of the cost and 21% of the radiation.

Conclusions

A simple score based on clinical risk factors could identify HF patients with a low risk of CAD; these patients may have benefitted from MSCT as a gatekeeper for CAG.
Investigating multiple solutions to boundary value problems in constrained minimal and non-minimal SUSY models
Authors: Meuser Daniel , Voigt Alexander
Published: October 2019

We investigate the physical origins of multiple solutions to boundary value problems in the fully constrained MSSM and NMSSM. We derive mathematical criteria that formulate circumstances under which multiple solutions can appear. Finally, we study the validity of the exclusion of the CMSSM in the presence of multiple solutions.
Appell’s hypergeometric series over finite fields
Authors: Tripathi Mohit , Saikia Neelam , Barman Rupam
Published: October 2019

We define four functions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] as finite field analogues of Appell series [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively using purely Gauss sums in the spirit of finite field hypergeometric series introduced by McCarthy. We establish relations among [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] analogous to those satisfied by the classical Appell series. Recently, several people have defined finite field analogues of Appell series using integral representations of Appell series. We show that our functions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are closely related to those functions.
Torsion homology growth for noncongruence subgroups of Bianchi groups
Authors: Kızılaslan Gonca , Şengün Mehmet Haluk
Published: October 2019

We carry out numerical experiments to investigate the growth of torsion in their first homology of noncongruence subgroups of Bianchi groups. The data we collect suggest that the torsion homology growth conjecture of Bergeron and Venkatesh for congruence subgroups may apply to the noncongruence case as well.
Non-rational varieties with the Hilbert Property
Authors: Demeio Julian Lawrence
Published: October 2019

A variety [Formula: see text] over a field [Formula: see text] is said to have the Hilbert Property if [Formula: see text] is not thin. We shall exhibit some examples of varieties, for which the Hilbert Property is a new result.

We give a sufficient condition for descending the Hilbert Property to the quotient of a variety by the action of a finite group. Applying this result to linear actions of groups, we exhibit some examples of non-rational unirational varieties with the Hilbert Property, providing positive instances of a conjecture posed by Colliot–Thélèene and Sansuc. We also give a sufficient condition for a surface with two elliptic fibrations to have the Hilbert Property, and use it to prove that a certain class of K3 surfaces have the Hilbert Property, generalizing a result of Corvaja and Zannier.
The UK’s China Policy under U.S.-China Strategic Rivalry
Authors: Tim Summers
Published: October 2019

This paper looks at issues in the formation of the United Kingdom’s policy toward China during a period of growing strategic rivalry between the United States and China, focusing particularly on the relationship between policy debates and the output of UK-based think tanks on China. By analyzing the policy debate and think tank output on three current key themes, including maritime politics in the South China Sea, whether to allow Chinese companies to participate or invest in “critical national infrastructure,” and China’s suspected “interference” in other countries’ domestic politics, this paper shows that UK-based think tanks tend to prioritize security concerns more than economic opportunities with regard to the UK’s China policy. Nevertheless, the impact of U.S.-China tensions and of policy advocacy and research on the UK is issue-dependent.
Diagnosis of Bilirubin Encephalopathy in Preterm Infants with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Kitai Yukihiro , Hirai Satori , Okuyama Naomi , Hirotsune Mika , Mizutani Satoshi , Ogura Kaeko , Ohmura Kayo , Okumura Akihisa , Arai Hiroshi
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Very preterm infants are susceptible to bilirubin neurotoxicity, the signs of which are unclear during early infancy. We investigated children born preterm and later diagnosed with bilirubin encephalopathy (BE) to gain insights into accurate early diagnosis. Methods: We identified 93 children born preterm and clinically diagnosed with BE who visited our hospital between 2006 and 2018. Perinatal history, findings of auditory brainstem response (ABR), brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and functional outcomes were investigated retrospectively based on chart review. Results: The mean gestational age and birth weights were 27.2 weeks and 991 g, respectively. During the neonatal period, only 3% (2/71) had exchange transfusions, and none were diagnosed with acute BE. ABR was abnormal in 64% (51/80), but the majority (34/51) required no hearing aids. Brain MRI taken between 6 and 18 months of age revealed bilateral T2 hyperintensity of the globi pallidi in 91% (60/66); subsequently, the rate decreased with age. Functional communication outcomes were markedly superior to gross motor and hand function outcomes. Conclusion: For early diagnosis of BE, brain MRI is recommended at a corrected age of between 6 and 18 months, especially for those with abnormal ABR during early infancy, and even with no apparent history of marked neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Atemwegsobstruktion im Schlaf durch Zwerchfellschrittmacher verhindert Dekanülierung bei Kleinkindern mit CCHS
Authors: Valika Taher , Chin Anthony C , Thompson Dana M , Kabre Rashmi , Lavin Jennifer M. , Neault Sarah H , Ballard Heather A , Kenny Anna S , Weese-Mayer Debra E
Published: October 2019

Kinder mit angeborenem zentralem Hypoventilationssyndrom (CCHS) haben eine auf einer PHOX2B-Mutation beruhende Störung der Atmungsregulation, die künstliche Beatmung zur Lebenserhaltung notwendig macht. Bei einigen CCHS-Patienten streben die Familien den Einsatz eines über den Nervus phrenicus wirkenden Zwerchfellschrittmachers (ZSM) im Schlaf an, um die Entfernung der Trachealkanüle zu ermöglichen. Veröffentlichte Daten über den ZSM zur Lebenserhaltung im Schlaf bei Kindern mit CCHS nach Dekanülierung und zur damit verbundenen respiratorischen Dynamik bei Kleinkindern liegen nur in begrenztem Umfang vor. Wir berichten über eine Fallserie von 3 Kindern, die im Alter von 3,3-4,3 Jahren dekanüliert wurden. Schlafendoskopien unter der ZSM-Anwendung ergaben vollständige Obstruktionen der Atemwege auf verschiedenen Ebenen (oropharyngeal, supraglottisch, glottisch usw.) trotz Modifikation der Schrittmachereinstellungen. Echtzeitanalysen des endexspiratorischen CO2 und SpO2 bestätigten einen unzureichenden Gasaustausch. Da die Familien eine erneute Tracheostomie ablehnten, wurden alle 3 Patienten zur Lebenserhaltung auf nicht invasive Maskenbeatmung im Schlaf umgestellt. Diese Ergebnisse unterstreichen, dass im Hinblick auf eine eventuelle Dekanülierung von Kleinkindern mit CCHS, bei denen ein ZSM die Lebenserhaltung im Schlaf gewährleisten soll, extrem vorsichtig vorzugehen ist. Die Patienten bzw. ihre Eltern müssen sich darauf einstellen, dass nach der Dekanülierung eine Abhängigkeit von der nicht invasiven Maskenbeatmung (anstelle des ZSM) im Schlaf bestehen bleibt. Diese Information könnte zur besseren Versorgung von Kleinkindern mit CCHS und ZSM und zu realistischen Erwartungen bezüglich der Dekanülierung beitragen.
Cytochrome P450-Mediated Metabolic Characterization of a Mono-Carbonyl Curcumin Analog WZ35
Authors: Wang Guangbao , Li Yinghui , Sun Wei , Wang Zhe , Chen Daoxing , Shu Sheng , Jin Jiayi , Mahoo Janeth , Pan Liuliu , Hu Guoxin , Liu Zhiguo , Zhang Xiaodan
Published: October 2019

WZ35 is a monocarbonyl analog of curcumin, which had been proved advantage over curcumin in chemical stability and antitumor activity. However, its pharmacokinetic profile has not been determined. In the present study, an ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay was developed to detect concentration of WZ35 in rat plasma. Subsequently, pharmacokinetic study showed that the oral bioavailability of WZ35 is 10.56%. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) plays a major role in metabolizing exogenous substance. The concentration of WZ35 was sharply decreased while incubating with microsome. It’s indicated that WZ35 is a substrate of CYP450s. Molecular docking assay showed that WZ35 can combine with CYP2B6 and CYP2C9 to form much more stable complex. The lowest docking energy was generated in complex with CYP2E1. The inhibition of CYP450s by WZ35 was also evaluated. Pan inhibitions of WZ35 on rat CYP3A2, CYP2B1, CYP2C11, CYP2D1, and ­CYP2E1 were observed by detecting probe substrates (midazolam, bupropion, tolbutamide, dextromethorphan, chlorzoxazone) and metabolites accordingly. On an average, 80% activities of enzymes were blocked. Mechanistically, the inhibitions of WZ35 on CYP3A2, CYP2B1, CYP2E1 were in a time-dependent manner according to the results of IC50 shift assay. The collective data demonstrated that the oral bioavailability of monocarbonyl analog of curcumin has significantly improved compared to curcumin. It’s both the substrate and inhibitor of CYP450s through in a time-dependent mechanism.
A Nonsense SMAD3 Mutation in a Girl with Familial Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection without Joint Abnormality
Authors: Maeda Yoshichika , Takasawa Kei , Ishii Taku , Nagashima Ayako , Mouri Mariko , Kunieda Junko , Morisaki Hiroko , Ito Takashi , Mori Masaaki , Kashimada Kenichi , Doi Shozaburo , Morio Tomohiro
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections (TAAD) are rare in children and often associated with underlying genetic disorders accompanied with other systemic manifestations, including connective or osteo-articular tissue diseases. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 10-year-old girl with a novel nonsense SMAD3 mutation, p.Glu102X, who presented with familial TAAD without any signs of osteoarthritis. Histological analysis of aorta fragments from the patient with TAAD obtained during surgery revealed elastin degradation and inflammatory infiltration of T cells with dense CD31 + microvessels, which is consistent with previous findings. Interestingly, the family members with the SMAD3 mutation developed IgA nephropathy. Conclusion: Because the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway plays an important role in the primary pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy and TAAD, we presume that IgA nephropathy could be a novel clinical phenotype of SMAD3 deficiency. Further accumulation of genetically proven cases with SMAD3 deficiency is needed to more accurately characterize phenotypic variability and elucidate a wide spectrum of TGF-β-associated disorders.
Trends in the Incidence and Mortality of Stroke in Matão, Brazil: The Matão Preventing Stroke (MAPS) Study
Authors: Minelli Cesar , Cabral Norberto Luiz , Ujikawa Liliana Tiene , Borsetti Neto Flavio Antonio , Langhi Chiozzini Esther Maria , dos Reis Geraldo Cassio , Borin Lucileni Aparecida , Carvalho Caroline Cristine
Published: October 2019

Background: Stroke population-based studies in the same setting comparing time trends of rates are a gold standard method to determine the primary prevention status of stroke. Twelve years ago, we measured the stroke incidence and mortality in Matão city, Southeast of Brazil. Objective: This second Matão stroke registry study aimed to determine the time trends in the incidence, mortality, case fatality, and functional status of patients with stroke. Methods: This was a prospective, population-based study known as the Matão Preventing Stroke (MAPS). We determined all incident stroke events that occurred between August 1, 2015, and July 31, 2016. Between the periods of November 1, 2003, to October 31, 2004, and August 1, 2015, to July 31, 2016, the rates were age adjusted to the Brazilian and world population. Functional status was measured by Barthel scale 1 year after the index event. Results: We registered 81 cases of incident stroke. Demographic and cardiovascular risk factors were similar in both periods. The mean age increased by 9%, from 65.2 (95% CI 62.6–67.8) to 71.0 (95% CI 68.1–73.8) years. Between 2003–2004 and 2015–2016, the age-adjusted incidence decreased by 39% (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.61; 95% CI 0.46–0.79) and mortality by 50% (IRR 0.50; 95% CI 0.31–0.94). The 1-year case fatality was 26%; approximately 56% of the patients were functionally independent, while 7% had a recurrent stroke. Compared with the results of our first registry study, these outcomes did not differ significantly. Conclusion: Our findings agree with those of previous studies, showing a decline in the incidence and mortality of stroke in Brazil. Improvements in local public health care might explain these declines.
P Wave Peak Time for Predicting an Increased Left Atrial Volume Index in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Yıldız İbrahim , Özmen Yildiz Pinar , Burak Cengiz , Rencüzoğulları İbrahim , Karaveli Gursoy Guner  , Kaya Bulent , Karabağ Yavuz , Çağdaş Metin
Published: October 2019

Objective: An increased left atrial volume index (LAVI) is related to increased mortality in hemodialysis patients. In the present study, we evaluated the association between the LAVI and the P wave peak time (PWPT), a newly introduced electrocardiographic parameter, in hemodialysis patients. Methods: The study population was made up of 79 hemodialysis patients with a mean age of 53 ± 18 years (55.7% were males). These patients were divided into a normal LAVI (≤28 mL/m2) group (n = 45) and an increased LAVI (>28 mL/m2) group (n = 34). The demographic, clinical, laboratory, echocardiographic, and electrocardiographic variables of the groups were compared. Results: The P wave terminal force from lead V1, P wave dispersion and PWPTs obtained from leads V1 and D2 (PWPTD2) were significantly higher in the patients with increased LAVIs. In multivariable analysis, only the PWPTD2was an independent predictor of an increased LAVI (odds ratio = 1.117, 95% CI = 1.052–1.185, p < 0.001). The receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the best PWPTD2 cutoff value for predicting an increased LAVI was 60 ms, with a sensitivity of 76.5% and a specificity of 66.7% (area under the curve = 0.736, 95% CI = 0.625–0.829, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study showed that a prolonged PWPTD2 was independently associated with an increased LAVI in hemodialysis patients. Therefore, measuring the PWPTD2 duration on an electrocardiogram may help define high-risk hemodialysis patients with increased LAVIs.
Cardiovascular Outcomes Associated With Clinical Use of Citalopram and Omeprazole: A Nationwide Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Wen‐Tung , Tsai Chun‐Teng , Chou Yu‐Ching , Ku Po‐Ming , Chen Yong‐Chen , You San‐Lin , Hung Chi‐Feng , Sun Chien‐An
Published: October 2019

Background

Recent studies have raised concerns about the reduced efficacy of citalopram when used concurrently with proton pump inhibitors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between clinical use of citalopram and omeprazole and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest (
SCA
) in an Asian population.

Methods and Results

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan dated from 2000 to 2013. The study cohorts comprised 3882 patients with citalopram use alone, 31 090 patients with omeprazole use alone, and 405 patients with concomitant use of citalopram and omeprazole (as the exposed cohort), and 141 508 patients received treatment with antidepressants without the risk of
SCA
and/or proton pump inhibitors other than omeprazole (as the comparison cohort). The primary outcome was the occurrence of
SCA
. The hazard ratios and 95%
CI
s derived from the time‐dependent Cox regression model were used to assess the association between the proposed drug treatments and risk of
SCA
. The adjusted hazard ratios of
SCA
was 1.32 (95%
CI
, 1.17–1.50) for citalopram use alone, 1.08 (95%
CI
, 0.98–1.20) for omeprazole use alone, and 2.23 (95%
CI
, 1.79–2.78) for concomitant use of citalopram and omeprazole. The cumulative incidence of
SCA
over the Kaplan‐Meier curves was more pronounced in patients with concomitant use of citalopram and omeprazole than those treated with citalopram alone and omeprazole alone.

Conclusions

This cohort study demonstrated use of citalopram and omeprazole either in isolation use or in concomitant use to be at increased risk for
SCA
.
Clinical Prediction Models for Valvular Heart Disease
Authors: Wessler Benjamin S. , Lundquist Christine M. , Koethe Benjamin , Park Jinny G. , Brown Kristen , Williamson Tatum , Ajlan Muhammad , Natto Zuhair , Lutz Jennifer S. , Paulus Jessica K. , Kent David M.
Published: October 2019

Background

While many clinical prediction models (
CPM
s) exist to guide valvular heart disease treatment decisions, the relative performance of these
CPM
s is largely unknown. We systematically describe the
CPM
s available for patients with
valvular heart disease
with specific attention to performance in external validations.

Methods and Results

A systematic review identified 49
CPM
s for patients with
valvular heart disease
treated with surgery (n=34), percutaneous interventions (n=12), or no intervention (n=3). There were 204 external validations of these
CPM
s. Only 35 (71%)
CPM
s have been externally validated. Sixty‐five percent (n=133) of the external validations were performed on distantly related populations. There was substantial heterogeneity in model performance and a median percentage change in discrimination of −27.1% (
interquartile range
, −49.4%–−5.7%). Nearly two‐thirds of validations (n=129) demonstrate at least a 10% relative decline in discrimination. Discriminatory performance of Euro
SCORE II
and Society of Thoracic Surgeons (2009) models (accounting for 73% of external validations) varied widely: Euro
SCORE II
validation c‐statistic range 0.50 to 0.95;
Society of Thoracic Surgeons
(2009) Models validation c‐statistic range 0.50 to 0.86. These models performed well when tested on related populations (median related validation c‐statistics: Euro
SCORE II
, 0.82 [0.76, 0.85];
Society of Thoracic Surgeons
[2009], 0.72 [0.67, 0.79]). There remain few (n=9) external validations of transcatheter aortic valve replacement
CPM
s.

Conclusions

Many
CPM
s for patients with
valvular heart disease
have never been externally validated and isolated external validations appear insufficient to assess the trustworthiness of predictions. For surgical valve interventions, there are existing predictive models that perform reasonably well on related populations. For
transcatheter aortic valve replacement (CPM
s additional external validations are needed to broadly understand the trustworthiness of predictions.
Shift Workers Have Higher Blood Pressure Medicine Use, But Only When They Are Short Sleepers: A Longitudinal UK Biobank Study
Authors: Riegel Barbara , Daus Marguerite , Lozano Alicia J. , Malone Susan K. , Patterson Freda , Hanlon Alexandra L.
Published: October 2019

Background

Some, but not all, studies report associations between shift work and hypertension, suggesting that particular subgroups may be at risk. We examined moderating effects of sleep duration and circadian preference on the relationship between shift work and new blood pressure (
BP
) medicine use at follow‐up.

Methods and Results

Baseline and 5‐year follow‐up data from the
UK
Biobank cohort (N=9200) were used to generate logistic regression models for shift workers and nonshift workers. The moderating effects of sleep duration (short ≤6 hours; adequate 7–8 hours; long ≥9 hours) and circadian preference (morning “larks;” intermediate; evening “owls”) at baseline were examined with new
BP
medicine use at follow‐up, adjusting for age, sex, race, education, employment, urban/rural, cardiovascular disease family history, depression, alcohol intake, physical activity, diet, smoking, and body mass index. The sample was predominately middle aged (55.3±7.4), female (57.3%), and white (97.9%). Most reported adequate sleep duration (7–8 hours, 73.7%) and were intermediate type (65.3%); 8.0% were shift workers at baseline. Only 6.5% reported new
BP
medicine use at follow‐up. Short sleep duration was a significant moderator of new
BP
medicine use in shift workers. Among short sleepers, shift workers had a 2.1‐fold increased odds of new
BP
medicine use compared with nonshift workers (odds ratio=2.08, 95%
CI
=1.21–3.58,
P
=0.008). In those reporting adequate (odds ratio=0.82, 95%
CI
=0.54–1.25,
P
=0.35) and long sleep (odds ratio=0.64, 95%
CI
=0.11–3.54,
P
=0.60), this relationship was protective but nonsignificant. Interaction between circadian preference and shift work on
BP
medicine use was nonsignificant.

Conclusions

Shift workers with short sleep duration may be at risk for hypertension.
Experimental Insights on Factors Influencing Sensitivity of Thin Film Narrow Band-Pass Filters
Authors: Hou Hai-Gang , Hussain Shahid , Shao Hai-Cheng , Liu Gui-Wu , Wang Ming-Song , Qiao Guan-Jun , Shaheen Asma
Published: October 2019

First time study for development of relationship between design and fabrication of thin film narrow-pass filters simulated using the Essential Macleod optical coating design program and verified through experimental data. In thin film narrow band-pass filter's design, can design better
filter by changing some parameters, but the theoretical designs are often difficult to achieve. The sensitivity of thin film narrow band-pass filters are mainly influenced by the refractive index of cavity layers, number of mirror layers, interference order and number of cavities. Based on
analysis of all these aspects, laws of influence are obtained. A narrow band-pass filter with super wide rejection band was designed and fabricated to verify the simulation results, showing a good agreement between the experimental and theoretical observations.
Error Calculating and Compensating Method of All-Optical Fiber Current Transformer in ± 10 kV DC Distribution Network
Authors: Yu Jicheng , Yue Changxi , Li Jun , Li Dengyun , Li He
Published: October 2019

Current transformer is one of the main equipment in ±10 kV DC distribution network. Traditional electromagnetic current transformer has poor anti-jamming capacity and poor insulation, so it cannot realize transient protection. The emergence of all-optical fiber current transformer
brings solutions to these problems, which has attracted more and more attention. In this study, aiming at the problem of error and compensation of λ/4 waveform of all-fiber current transformer, the fabrication method of λ/4 waveform is studied, the mathematical model of the waveform
is established, the influence of the waveform error on the scale factor is analyzed, and a calculating device of angle difference and ratio difference to compare the error is designed. The device adopts the principle of traceability of quantities to collect the state data of the wave plate.
At the same time, in order to collect data for errors, database technology and network technology are used to realize remote transmission of monitoring data. The error of the λ/4 wave plate is compensated, the bidirectional principle generated by the birefringence in the fiber ring
is analyzed, and the data logic description of the transformer sensitive ring is performed. The phase delay and the angle of the shaft are selected as the main factors causing the error. Compensation is performed by means of peak segmentation and variable cancellation. In the experimental
process, compared with the error sampling of the traditional transformer, the error calculated by the current amplitude and phase angle parameters obtained by the all-fiber current transformer is more accurate, and the compensation scheme can suppress the size of the birefringence and improve
sensing accuracy of fiber optic current transformers. This study provides a powerful reference for the error analysis of all-fiber current transformer λ/4 wave plates, which is beneficial to promote the better application of such current transformers.
Improvement of Differential Method for Estimating the Axial Intensity Derivative in the Transport-of-Intensity Equation
Authors: Youwen Hu , Fengchun Tian , Wenli Zhang , Jing Luo , Li Zhang
Published: October 2019

Phase retrieval is an important problem in many areas of physics while transport-of-intensity Equation (TIE) is a traditional method for recovering phases by intensity detection. Derivative of axial intensity is an important parameter in TIE and usually obtained by finite difference
(FD) method. However, nonlinearity error is unavoidable in these FD methods. We suggest a method for eliminating this error by setting an axial smoothing filter, and the width of smoothing window varies with the parameters of the observation point. Simulation and experimental results of reconstructed
wave-front phase with this filter are shown in this paper for demonstrating the performance of this technique.
Behavior of the Reststrahlen Band in the 17–25 μm Spectral Region in the Diffuse Reflection Spectra of Sand and Silt Mixtures
Authors: Ewing Kenneth J. , Major Kevin J. , Sanghera Jasbinder , Kala Raju V. , Howington Stacy E. , Ballard Jerry
Published: October 2019

Studies on the reflectance spectra of different mixtures of sand and silt were performed in the infrared spectral region of 7–25 µm to explore the behavior of a second reststrahlen band occurring between 17 and 25 µm with respect to different mixtures of sand and silt. The reflectance spectrum of all samples exhibited reststrahlen bands within both the long wavelength infrared (LWIR) and the very long wavelength infrared (VLWIR) regions of the reflectance spectrum. Results demonstrate that both LWIR and VLWIR reststrahlen bands increase in area as the fraction of sand increases to 80%. More importantly, the data demonstrate that the VLWIR reststrahlen band, like that in LWIR, exhibits a significant and reproducible decrease in reflectivity for mixed soil versus weathered soil.
Strangers in a Strange Land: How Our Founding Principles and a Bitter Pill Undo the Assimilation of US Catholics
Authors: Donovan G. Kevin , Sotomayor Claudia
Published: October 2019

Most Catholic physicians work with the comfortable assumption that we can practice our profession and our faith, fully assimilated into modern American culture and society. Increasingly, we have come to realize that to be a Catholic Christian is by nature to be countercultural. American culture, ordered by the founding fathers in concepts of liberty and freedom, has been profoundly affected by the introduction and reliance on a contraceptive pill. This has changed the mores and sexual behaviors of society in ways that are antithetical to Catholic values. The consequences of contraception have directly led to an acceptance of a broad number of behaviors and attitudes that society insists must be tolerated. This challenges the commitments of Catholic physicians both personally and professionally.
Effects of Death Anxiety on Perceived Stress in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis and the Role of Self-Transcendence
Authors: Abdollahi Abbas , Panahipour Hannaneh , Allen Kelly A. , Hosseinian Simin
Published: October 2019

Stress is a commonly reported concern of individuals with chronical diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). This study sought to investigate the relationships between self-transcendence, death anxiety, and perceived stress among individuals with MS from Iran. A second aim of the study was to assess the buffering effect of self-transcendence in the relationship between death anxiety and perceived stress. Two hundred and fifteen participants with MS from four hospitals completed measures assessing self-transcendence, death anxiety, and perceived stress. Using structural equation modeling, death anxiety was found to be positively related to perceived stress. In addition, there was a negative relationship between self-transcendence and perceived stress. Results of the study suggest that self-transcendence is a buffer in the link between death anxiety and perceived stress for individuals with MS. The findings demonstrate the importance of self-transcendence in decreasing the effects of death anxiety on perceived stress and have clinical implications for health professionals.
Honey Bees and Environmental Stress: Toxicologic Pathology of a Superorganism
Authors: Berenbaum May R. , Liao Ling-Hsiu
Published: October 2019

As a eusocial species, Apis mellifera, the European honey bee, is effectively a superorganism—a group of genetically related individuals functioning as a collective unit. Because the unit of selection is the colony and not the individual, standard methods for assessing toxicologic pathology can miss colony-level responses to stress. For over a decade, US populations of honeybees have experienced severe annual losses attributed to a variety of environmental stressors varying temporally and geographically; differentiating among those stressors is accordingly a high priority. Social interactions among individuals in this social species, however, mean that the “footprint” of stressors such as pesticides, phytochemicals, pathogens, and parasites may be most discernible in individuals that did not themselves directly encounter the stressor. For example, neurotoxic effects of pesticides on nurse bees may impair their behavioral responses to queen-destined larvae, which may then emerge as adults with altered anatomy or physiology. Similarly, pesticide-induced size alterations in nurse hypopharyngeal glands, which produce royal jelly, the exclusive food of larval and adult queens, may disproportionately affect the queen’s (and thus colony) health. Thus, evaluating toxicologic pathology in the honeybee requires a new perspective and development of assays that preserve the social context that ultimately determines colony health.
Impression formation on online dating sites: Effects of language errors in profile texts on perceptions of profile owners’ attractiveness
Authors: Van der Zanden Tess , Schouten Alexander P. , Mos Maria B. J. , Krahmer Emiel J.
Published: October 2019

This article presents two experimental studies investigating the impact of language errors in online dating profiles on impression formation. A first study examined whether language errors have a negative effect on perceptions of attraction and dating intention and whether this effect is moderated by the presence of visual information, that is, the profile picture. This 2 (Language Errors/No Language Errors) × 2 (Visible/Blurred Picture) experiment revealed that language errors negatively affect perceptions of social and romantic attraction and that a visible picture on a profile positively affects perceptions of physical attraction. Study 2 focused on mechanical, rule-based, and informal language errors, which can each be attributed to different personality traits. Mechanical and rule-based errors lead to lower scores on, respectively, perceived attentiveness and intelligence, which in turn lead to lower attraction and dating intention scores. These results highlight the importance of error-free language use as a cue for attractiveness.
The Effect of Including Quantitative Information on Multiple Endpoints in Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Television Advertisements
Authors: Sullivan Helen W. , O’Donoghue Amie C. , Lynch Molly , Johnson Mihaela , Davis Christine , Rupert Douglas J.
Published: October 2019

Background. Previous research found that adding a single piece of quantitative information about prescription drug benefits to direct-to-consumer (DTC) ads helps consumers understand how well the drug works. However, drug information often includes quantitative information on multiple benefit outcomes and risks. Thus, we examined whether consumer understanding was similarly improved when DTC television ads include varying amounts of quantitative information. Methods. We randomly assigned participants (945 Internet panelists ≥ 60 years old) to view 1 of 9 fictitious prescription drug television ads that varied the presentation of quantitative information for benefits (none, single outcome, 2 outcomes) and risks (none, 1 risk category, 3 risk categories) and then measured gist and verbatim recall/estimation and drug perceptions. Results. Adding a single benefit outcome and a single risk category replicated past results. Compared with an ad containing no quantitative information, presenting 2 benefit outcomes and multiple risk categories increased gist and verbatim recall and affected drug perceptions. Compared with presenting a single benefit outcome, presenting 2 benefit outcomes increased verbatim recall for the second outcome but decreased verbatim recall for the first outcome. Likewise, compared with presenting a single risk category, presenting multiple risk categories increased gist and verbatim recall for the multiple risk categories but decreased gist recall for a concept more closely associated with the single risk category. Adding multiple risk categories decreased risk perceptions even more than did the single risk category. Limitations. This study may have limited generalizability because it examined an ad for only 1 medical condition. Conclusions. There are tradeoffs to adding multiple quantitative benefit outcomes in DTC ads. However, presenting multiple quantitative risk categories helps consumers better understand a drug’s risks.
Diagnostic accuracy of dual-energy CT for detection of bone marrow lesions in the subacutely injured knee with MRI as reference method
Authors: Björkman Ann-Sofi , Koskinen Seppo K , Lindblom Maria , Persson Anders
Published: October 2019

Background

Dual-energy computer tomography (DECT) can detect post-traumatic bone marrow lesions. Prospective studies of the knee with large numbers of participants and intra-observer agreement assessment are limited.

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of DECT in detecting bone marrow lesions as well as estimating the bone marrow lesion volume in patients with suspected anterior cruciate ligament trauma with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as reference standard.

Material and Methods

Forty-eight consecutive patients with suspected anterior cruciate ligament injury were imaged bilaterally with DECT within a mean of 25 days (range 4–55 days) following injury and MRI within seven days of DECT. Two readers analyzed DECT virtual non-calcium-blinded images. Consensus MRI was reference standard. Intra- and inter-observer agreement were determined using weighted kappa statistics. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values were calculated. Bone marrow lesion volumes were measured; for comparison, intra-class correlation coefficient was used.

Results

The 48 patients (26 men, 22 women; mean age 23 years, age range 15–37 years) were imaged bilaterally yielding 52 knees with bone marrow lesions, of which 44 were in the femur and 41 were in the tibia. Intra- and inter-observer agreement to detect bone marrow lesions was moderate and fair to moderate (κ 0.54–0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.39–0.80 and 0.37–0.41, 95% CI 0.20–0.57) and overall sensitivity and specificity were 70.1% and 69.1%, respectively. Positive and negative predictive values were 72.9% and 66.1%, respectively. Bone marrow lesion volumes showed excellent intra- and inter-observer agreement (0.83–0.91, 95% CI 0.74–0.94 and 0.76–0.78, 95% CI 0.57–0.87).

Conclusion

The diagnostic performance of DECT to detect bone marrow lesions in the subacutely injured knee was moderate with intra- and inter-observer agreement ranging from moderate to substantial and fair to moderate. Bone marrow lesion volume correlation was excellent.
Philanthropic Entrepreneurs Who Give Overseas: An Exploratory Study of International Giving Through Grassroots Organizations
Authors: Appe Susan , Oreg Ayelet
Published: October 2019

We examine a phenomenon which includes people who have had transformative experiences while abroad and traveling, and who have returned home to the United States and become philanthropic entrepreneurs: they start their own international nonprofit organizations. We set out to examine the motivations for giving to international causes through these nonprofits, called grassroots, international non-governmental organizations (GINGOs), which allow individuals to actualize their calling to serve distant places and causes. As an exploratory, qualitative inquiry, we build on recent survey and experiment data about motivations to international giving and donor choice. In particular, GINGO leaders as philanthropic entrepreneurs challenge two main deterrents related to international giving: trust and its influence on willingness to donate to international causes and the adage that “charity begins at home.” Our findings support suggestions in the literature that personal networks and word of mouth are important in donor choice and incentivizing giving to international causes.
Anomaly detection for heavy power generation gas turbine considering the effect of output power variation
Authors: Wang Zhong , Gu Yujiong , Han Xudong , Zhu Junjie , Xu Jiaohui
Published: October 2019

In the frequency modulation process of the heavy power generation gas turbine, the variation of output power will cause the fluctuation of the operating parameters. In order to detect the anomaly of the true performance deterioration accurately, a novel statistical anomaly detection model was developed. First, the mathematical description of the operating parameters under three different operating conditions—unsteady-state, steady-state and normal, steady-state and anomaly—was presented according to the characteristics of parameters and output power. Second, the new characteristic test statistic P-ratio based on the T-statistic was proposed for the anomaly detection under the steady-state condition. Then, the on-line steady-state detection algorithm based on the Gaussian mixture model was built for the unsteady-state identification. Finally, the efficacy of the model was examined on the synthetic deterioration data, which superimposes the anomaly simulation signal data on the real healthy data from a real power generation gas turbine. The testing result is shown to be satisfactory with respect to the false positive rate and the true positive rate. Future research is required to further improve the accuracy of the proposed model.
Belt and Road Initiative: Five Years on Implementation and Reflection
Authors: Hu Biliang
Published: October 2019

This article summarizes the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was carried out 5 years ago. To date the basic institutional framework has been set up, some key infrastructural projects launched; joint development zones established and supporting systems have been set up to ensure the smooth infrastructure development of BRI. This article also explains the important factors why China proposed and implemented the initiative: accelerating world economic growth particularly for the developing countries, promoting economic globalization, improving global governance, and supporting UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. Based on the 5 years’ experience of the Belt and Road implementation, the initiative reflects correctly the mega trend of world development and global cooperation, as well as the common interests of China and other relevant participating countries. A promising future for the initiative is most likely; however, careful feasibility study for investments is required to manage debt risk well for both the investors and the receivers of the investments.
Learning Collaboratives in Medical Education: Exploring the Impact of Collaboratives’ Structure and Resources and Teams’ Experience
Authors: Dressler Robert , Janek Hania , Sager Lauren , Kountz David S. , Gravdal Judi
Published: October 2019

The Alliance of Independent Academic Medical Centers (AIAMC) organized and coordinated a multicenter learning collaborative, National Initiative V (NI V), focused on community health and health inequity. A pre–post descriptive study was designed to examine the outcomes of the AIAMC NI V. Data were collected from pre- and post-assessment surveys as well as a project milestone self-assessment survey. Twenty-nine institutions participated. By the conclusion of the NI, the majority of institutions had completed at least 1 of the milestones in each of the pre-work/background (65.52%), measurement (62.07%), methods (62.07%), and implement/sustain (20.69%) domains. Institutions reported a significant association between their readiness assessments prior to the start of the NI compared with their status of activities on completion. Milestone achievement is significantly associated with 3 of the assessment items. Learning collaboratives with thoughtfully integrated structure and support can be impactful on topic readiness for the participating organizations.
Goal-Directed Achievement Through Geographic Location (GAGL) Reduces Patient Length of Stay and Adverse Events
Authors: Maniaci Michael J. , Dawson Nancy L. , Cowart Jennifer B. , Richie Eugene M. , Suryaprasad Anil G. , Hodge David O. , Joyce Nicole E. , Kernan Carol A. , Stone Laurie A. , Burton M. Caroline
Published: October 2019

This prospective cohort study aimed to improve hospital outcomes through geographic location of hospitalist patients and conducting daily multidisciplinary team rounds—Goal-directed Achievements through Geographic Location (GAGL). Patients were admitted to a geographic (GAGL) study unit where daily multidisciplinary rounds took place among nursing, case management, a hospitalist, pharmacy, physical and occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and nutrition services. A total of 985 (56.4%) patients were admitted to the GAGL study unit and 760 patients (43.6%) were admitted to non-GAGL units. Patients admitted to the GAGL study unit had a shorter average length of stay (3.64 days vs 4.35 days, P = .0001) and a lower number of risk events (91 [9.2%] vs 93 [12.2%], P = .038). There was no significant difference in 30-day readmissions, avoidable day events, or code blue team activations. GAGL provides a framework for hospital organizations to improve provider communication, hospital efficiency, and patient safety.
ECHO Autism Transition: Enhancing healthcare for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Mazurek Micah O , Stobbe Gary , Loftin Rachel , Malow Beth A , Agrawal Mavara M , Tapia Mark , Hess Amy , Farmer Justin , Cheak-Zamora Nancy , Kuhlthau Karen , Sohl Kristin
Published: October 2019

Transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder have complex healthcare needs, yet the current healthcare system is not equipped to adequately meet the needs of this growing population. Primary care providers lack training and confidence in caring for youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. The current study developed and tested an adaptation of the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes model to train and mentor primary care providers ( n = 16) in best-practice care for transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. The Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Autism Transition program consisted of 12 weekly 1-h sessions connecting primary care providers to an interdisciplinary expert team via multipoint videoconferencing. Sessions included brief didactics, case-based learning, and guided practice. Measures of primary care provider self-efficacy, knowledge, and practice were administered pre- and post-training. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in self-efficacy regarding caring for youth/young adults with autism spectrum disorder and reported high satisfaction and changes in practice as a result of participation. By contrast, no significant improvements in knowledge or perceived barriers were observed. Overall, the results indicate that the model holds promise for improving primary care providers’ confidence and interest in working with transition-age youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. However, further refinements may be helpful for enhancing scope and impact on practice.
Dynamic stability of rotating viscoelastic annular sector plate
Authors: Yang Yongqiang , Wang Zhongmin , Wang Yan
Published: October 2019

The dynamic characteristics and stability of rotating viscoelastic annular sector plates are investigated. Based on the thin plate theory and the two-dimensional viscoelastic differential constitutive relation, the differential equation of transverse vibration for a rotating viscoelastic annular sector plate in the polar coordinate is established. The membrane forces involving the rotating inertial force in the Laplace domain are solved. The differential quadrature method is used to discretize the differential equation of vibration and corresponding boundary conditions. The generalized eigenvalue under different boundary conditions is calculated, and the change curve of the first three-order dimensionless complex frequencies of rotating viscoelastic annular sector plate with the dimensionless angular speed is analyzed. The effects of the ratio of inner to outer radius, the sector angle, and the dimensionless delay time on transverse vibration and stability of the annular sector plate are analyzed. The type of instability and corresponding critical speed of annular sector plate are obtained.
Ni2P/Al2O3 hydrodesulfurization catalysts prepared from hypophosphite under a nitrogen atmosphere
Authors: Yu Yunwu , Liang Lianjie , Liu Yunxue , Xu Changwei , Wang Qing , Niu Wanyang , Liu Changwei
Published: October 2019

A novel method for preparing Ni2P/Al2O3(L) catalysts in an N2 atmosphere by decomposition of hypophosphites was proposed, and Ni2P/Al2O3(T) catalyst was synthesized by the temperature programmed reduction method in a H2 atmosphere for comparison. These prepared catalysts were washed with deionized water to remove impurities. The X-ray diffraction, N2-adsorption specific surface area measurements, CO uptake, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were applied to characterize these catalysts. The activities of the Ni2P/Al2O3 catalysts prepared with the two different methods were tested in the dibenzothiophene hydrodesulfurization reaction.