bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of the road accident fund (RAF) performance‐management development system at the RAF office in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Hamid Hajira W. , Naidoo Loganadhan D.
Published: March 2020

In today's globalised business world characterised by a high level of competition and unstable markets, businesses are called upon to utilise their resources in the most effective and efficient manner to survive. It has become critical for businesses to monitor their employees' performance and to constantly develop and train employees to eliminate inefficiencies and improve productivity. Performance management has come to play an indispensable role in helping organisations reach their productivity goals. However, research indicates that many organisations have failed to implement and maintain effective performance‐management systems owing to employees' negative attitudes towards performance‐management practices. This paper through a quantitative approach investigates the effectiveness of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) performance‐management development system (PMDS) at the RAF office in Durban, South Africa. The sample of participants were selected from different structures across the organisational hierarchy. The key findings from the study indicated that within RAF performance management review outcomes are very subjective; the performance management system is not fully implemented; there is inconsistent implementation of performance management amongst different departments; and a lack of managers' involvement in implementing the performance management system. Some of the recommendations made include the use of 360° feedback appraisal for employee performance evaluation; keeping up‐to‐date job profiles outlining the roles and responsibilities of staff; and making sure that employees are aware of performance measurements and performance criteria used during performance reviews to reduce subjectivity.
Safety and efficacy of step‐down to oral outpatient treatment versus inpatient antimicrobial treatment in pediatric cancer patients with febrile neutropenia: A noninferiority multicenter randomized clinical trial
Authors: Avilés‐Robles Martha J. , Reyes‐López Alfonso , Otero‐Mendoza Francisco J. , Valencia‐Garin Amilcar U. , Peñaloza‐González José G. , Rosales‐Uribe Rómulo E. , Muñoz‐Hernández Onofre , Garduño‐Espinosa Juan , Juárez‐Villegas Luis , Zapata‐Tarrés Marta
Published: March 2020

Background

It has been suggested that low‐risk febrile neutropenia (FN) episodes can be treated in a step‐down manner in the outpatient setting. This recommendation has been limited to implementation in middle‐income countries due to concerns about infrastructure and lack of trained personnel. We aimed to determine whether early step‐down to oral antimicrobial outpatient treatment is not inferior in safety and efficacy to inpatient intravenous treatment in children with low‐risk FN.

Procedure

A noninferiority randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in three hospitals in Mexico City. Low‐risk FN was identified in children younger than 18 years. After 48 to 72 hours of intravenous treatment, children were randomly allocated to receive outpatient oral treatment (experimental arm, cefixime) or to continue inpatient treatment (standard of care, cefepime). Daily monitoring was performed until neutropenia resolution. The presence of any unfavorable clinical outcome was the endpoint of interest. We performed a noninferiority test for comparison of proportions.

Results

We identified 1237 FN episodes; 117 cases were randomized: 60 to the outpatient group and 57 for continued inpatient treatment. Of the FN episodes, 100% in the outpatient group and 93% in the inpatient group had a favorable outcome (P < 0.001). The mean duration of antibiotics was 4.1 days (SD 2.5; 95% CI, 3.4‐4.8 days) in the outpatient group and 4.4 days (SD 2.5; 95% CI, 3.7‐5.0 days) in the inpatient group (P = 0.70).

Conclusions

In our population, step‐down oral outpatient treatment of low‐risk FN was as safe and effective as inpatient intravenous treatment. Clinical Trials Identifier: NCT04000711.
Autologous stem cell transplant for high‐risk neuroblastoma: Achieving cure with low‐cost adaptations
Authors: Jain Richa , Hans Rekha , Totadri Sidharth , Trehan Amita , Sharma Ratti Ram , Menon Prema , Kapoor Rakesh , Saxena Akshay Kumar , Mittal Bhagwant Rai , Bhatia Prateek , Kakkar Nandita , Srinivasan Radhika , Rajwanshi Arvind , Varma Neelam , Samujh Ram , Marwaha Neelam , Bansal Deepak
Published: March 2020

Background

 The majority of patients in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) are unable to receive optimal therapy, including autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for high‐risk neuroblastoma. Management is intensive and multidisciplinary; survival is often poor. We report a single‐center outcome of high‐risk neuroblastoma, with adaptations optimized for LMIC.

Procedure

 The study was retrospective. Patients were treated on the backbone of the high‐risk neuroblastoma study‐1 of SIOP‐Europe (HR‐NBL1/SIOPEN) protocol with ASCT. Adaptations incorporated to decrease cost, requirement for inpatient admission, infections, and faster engraftment included (a) optional outpatient administration for rapid‐COJEC, (b) two sessions of stem‐cell apheresis, (c) storing stem cells at 2‐6°C without cryopreservation for up to 7 days, (d) no central lines, (e) no antibacterial/antifungal/antiviral prophylaxis, (f) omitting formal assessment of cardiac/renal/pulmonary functions before ASCT, and (g) administration of pegylated granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor on Day +4.

Results

 Over 5 years 9 months, 35 patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma were treated. Rapid‐COJEC was administered over a median duration of 80 days (interquartile range: 77, 83). Conditioning regimen included melphalan (n = 7), oral busulfan‐melphalan (Bu/Mel; n = 6), or intravenous Bu/Mel (n = 22). The median viability of stem cells stored for 6 days (n = 28) was 93% (range: 88‐99). Two (5.7%) patients had ASCT‐related mortality. The 3‐year overall and event‐free survival was 41% and 39%, respectively. A relapse occurred in 20 (57%) patients. Treatment abandonment was observed in one (3%) patient.

Conclusions

 Administration of therapy in a disciplined time frame along with low‐cost adaptations enables to manage high‐risk neuroblastoma with low abandonment and an encouraging survival in LMIC. Stem cells can be stored safely without cryopreservation for up to 7 days.
Bicarbazole‐based oxalates as photoinitiating systems for photopolymerization under UV–Vis LEDs
Authors: Zhou Ruchun , Jin Ming , Malval Jean‐Pierre , Pan Haiyan , Wan Decheng
Published: March 2020

Photoinitiators are critical to initiate chain reactions in photopolymerization. For such applications, the absorption of photoinitiator must be compatible with the emission of light sources and enables the fast manufacturing of three‐dimensional network or structures. Light‐emitting diode (LED) is a new kind of energy‐saving and environmental protection light source, exhibiting a substantial response in the near UV and visible range to replace the traditional mercury lamp and other light sources in photopolymerization. Here, we introduce methyl oxalate into bicarbazole chromophore (BiCz). By variation of the single or double substituents in the BiCz, we demonstrate that the absorption spectra can be adjusted and redshift to visible range and show good absorption in the near UV and visible range (365–475 nm). We explore their photochemistry based on experimental results and theoretical calculations and the mechanism of photoreactions have been verified. The super photostability by themselves and good hydrogen abstraction ability from amine co‐initiator make them as excellent near UV and visible light active photoinitiators. Critically, the photoinitiation of the free‐radical polymerization of acrylate monomers with low content (0.1% concentration) upon LED irradiation at 365–475 nm, exhibits excellent application potential in light curing and other fields.
Monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of severe asthma
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: March 2020

There are now five monoclonal antibodies licensed as add‐on therapy for the treatment of severe asthma. This article provides an overview of their indications, efficacy, safety and place in therapy.
Deprescribing in chronic disease: perspectives of nurse prescribers
Authors: Crowe Emma
Published: March 2020

Nurse prescribers are having an increasingly important role in medication review and deprescribing within general practice. Here, the author describes her small study in which nurse prescribers were interviewed to explore their views on deprescribing in the context of chronic disease management.
Isotopic discrimination between carrion and elytra clippings of lab‐reared American burying beetles (Nicrophorus americanus): Implications for conservation and evaluation of feeding relationships in the wild
Authors: Quinby Brandon M. , Feldman Noah S. , Flaherty Elizabeth A. , Belk Mark C. , Smith Amy D.F. , Creighton J. Curtis
Published: March 2020

Rationale

Differences in stable isotope composition between an animal and its diet are quantified by experimentally derived diet‐tissue discrimination factors. Appropriate discrimination factors between consumers and prey are essential for interpreting stable isotope patterns in ecological studies. While available for many taxa, these values are rarely estimated for organisms within the carrion food web.

Methods

We used a controlled‐diet stable isotope feeding trial to quantify isotopic diet‐tissue discrimination factors of carbon (δ13C values) and nitrogen (δ15N values) from laboratory‐reared Nicrophorus americanus raised on carrion. We used exoskeleton samples of beetle elytra (wing covers) to determine diet‐tissue discrimination factors using a continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer equipped with an elemental analyzer. We also measured the isotopic compositions of five species of co‐occurring, wild‐caught burying beetles and evaluated feeding relationships.

Results

We found differences in stable carbon discrimination between carrion sources (mammalian and avian) and lab‐reared beetles, but no difference in stable nitrogen discrimination. Values for δ13C did not differ among wild‐caught burying beetle species, but values for δ15N were significantly different for the three species with overlapping breeding seasons. Furthermore, wild‐caught burying beetles within our study area do not appear to use avian carrion resources to rear their young.

Conclusions

This study informs future interpretation of stable isotope data for insects within the carrion food web. In addition, these results provide insight into carrion resources used by co‐occurring burying beetle species in situ. We also demonstrated that independent of adult food type, the larval food source has a significant impact on the isotopic signatures of adult beetles, which can be estimated using a minimally invasive elytra clipping.
Observer‐based leaderless and leader‐following consensus for multiagent systems: A modified integral‐type event‐triggered design
Authors: Wu Xihui , Mu Xiaowu
Published: March 2020

This article aims to solve leaderless and leader‐following consensus problems for general linear systems by integral‐type event‐triggered control method. Different from the existing integral‐type event‐triggered controllers for multiagent systems (MASs), a modified distributed integral‐type event‐triggered scheme is designed via defining a measurement error without continuous communication. Then, distributed event‐triggered protocols are proposed for MASs to achieve the leaderless and leader‐following consensus. Moreover, for the case that all the agents' states are not available, distributed observers are given to estimate the full states. Meanwhile, leaderless and leader‐following consensus problems are investigated based on the observer‐based event‐triggered schemes. In addition, no agent will exhibit Zeno behavior. Finally, simulations are given to verify the effectiveness of our results.
Proposal of an equivalent linearization method to predict seismic hysteretic energy demand considering stiffness degradation effects
Authors: Samimifar Maryam , Massumi Ali , S. Moghadam Abdolreza
Published: March 2020

To overcome complexities and shortcomings of previous studies, a new method is proposed to derive an equivalent linear model for predicting seismic hysteretic energy demand of bilinear single degree of freedom (SDOF) models. A new displacement spectrum is defined, which represents hysteretic energy. It is found that by increasing initial period and damping of a nonlinear system in the correct proportion and defining a linear model with these characteristics, the new developed displacement can be achieved. Error minimization is applied through an algorithm to find the optimum equivalent period corresponding to an equivalent damping utilizing two sets of far‐field and near‐field earthquakes. To analyze the effects of stiffness degradation, the proposed algorithm has been implemented on modified Clough hysteretic model as well. Comparing the results, effects of stiffness degradation on the ratio of equivalent to initial period is evident in the short period range, while with increasing initial period, the effect can almost be neglected at higher values of ductility. Nonlinear regression analysis is carried out to provide the equations for predicting equivalent linear parameters as a function of ductility. Despite the previous predictive equations, the proposed model is independent of earthquake characteristics and response‐related parameters, which has increased efficiency as well as simplicity.
Improved hybrid de novo genome assembly and annotation of African wild rice, Oryza longistaminata, from Illumina and PacBio sequencing reads
Authors: Li Wei , Li Kui , Zhang Qun‐jie , Zhu Ting , Zhang Yun , Shi Cong , Liu Yun‐long , Xia En‐hua , Jiang Jian‐jun , Shi Chao , Zhang Li‐ping , Huang Hui , Tong Yan , Liu Yuan , Zhang Dan , Zhao Yuan , Jiang Wen‐kai , Zhao You‐jie , Mao Shu‐yan , Jiao Jun‐ying , Xu Ping‐zhen , Yang Li‐li , Yin Guo‐ying , Gao Li‐zhi
Published: March 2020

African wild rice Oryza longistaminata, one of the eight AA‐ genome species in the genus Oryza, possesses highly valued traits, such as the rhizomatousness for perennial rice breeding, strong tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and high biomass production on poor soils. To obtain the high‐quality reference genome for O. longistaminata we employed a hybrid assembly approach through incorporating Illumina and PacBio sequencing datasets. The final genome assembly comprised only 107 scaffolds and was approximately ∼363.5 Mb, representing ∼92.7% of the estimated African wild rice genome (∼392 Mb). The N50 lengths of the assembled contigs and scaffolds were ∼46.49 Kb and ∼6.83 Mb, indicating ∼3.72‐fold and ∼18.8‐fold improvement in length compared to the earlier released assembly (∼12.5 Kb and 364 Kb, respectively). Aided with Hi‐C data and syntenic relationship with O. sativa, these assembled scaffolds were anchored into 12 pseudo‐chromosomes. Genome annotation and comparative genomic analysis reveal that lineage‐specific expansion of gene families that respond to biotic‐ and abiotic stresses are of great potential for mining novel alleles to overcome major diseases and abiotic adaptation in rice breeding programs. This reference genome of African wild rice will greatly enlarge the existing database of rice genome resources and unquestionably form a solid base to understand genomic basis underlying highly valued phenotypic traits and search for novel gene sources in O. longistaminata for the future rice breeding programs.
Nonparametric covariance estimation with shrinkage toward stationary models
Authors: Blake Tayler A. , Lee Yoonkyung
Published: March 2020

Estimation of an unstructured covariance matrix is difficult because of the challenges posed by parameter space dimensionality and the positive‐definiteness constraint that estimates should satisfy. We consider a general nonparametric covariance estimation framework for longitudinal data using the Cholesky decomposition of a positive‐definite matrix. The covariance matrix of time‐ordered measurements is diagonalized by a lower triangular matrix with unconstrained entries that are statistically interpretable as parameters for a varying coefficient autoregressive model. Using this dual interpretation of the Cholesky decomposition and allowing for irregular sampling time points, we treat covariance estimation as bivariate smoothing and cast it in a regularization framework for desired forms of simplicity in covariance models. Viewing stationarity as a form of simplicity or parsimony in covariance, we model the varying coefficient function with components depending on time lag and its orthogonal direction separately and penalize the components that capture the nonstationarity in the fitted function. We demonstrate construction of a covariance estimator using the smoothing spline framework. Simulation studies establish the advantage of our approach over alternative estimators proposed in the longitudinal data setting. We analyze a longitudinal dataset to illustrate application of the methodology and compare our estimates to those resulting from alternative models.

This article is categorized under:

Data: Types and Structure > Time Series, Stochastic Processes, and Functional Data

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Maximum Likelihood Methods
High Performance Composite Photocatalysts based on Metal Organic Framework as the Modifier
Authors: Tang Bo , Ren Shoulong , Zhang Zhenyu , Huang Weiqiu , Wang Zhengwei , Dai Yuanzhe
Published: March 2020

Photocatalysis attracts increasing attention because of the deteriorating environment pollution. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) is deemed as one kind of promising modifiers to improve the photocatalytic performance of traditional semiconductors by their large BET areas. In this study, reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and Cu‐BTC are utilized to decorate TiO2 to enhance the corresponding photoactivity. Morphology of the as‐prepared composite is detected by SEM and XRD curve, while the UV‐ and visible‐light activities are estimated by the decomposition of various dyes. The specific functions of Cu‐BTC and RGO are revealed by analysing the adsorption capacity, lifetime of the photoinduced electrons and the EPR profiles. The resulting Cu‐BTC‐RGO/TiO2 samples display outstanding photocatalytic properties, which are much better than that of the pure TiO2 and RGO/TiO2 samples because of the synergy between these components. Lastly, the recycle using stability and the influence from the preparation process of the composite photocatalysts are discussed.
Multi-component scalar dark matter from a ZN symmetry: a systematic analysis
Authors: Yaguna Carlos E. , Zapata Óscar
Published: March 2020

Abstract

The dark matter may consist not of one elementary particle but of different species, each of them contributing a fraction of the observed dark matter density. A major theoretical difficulty with this scenario — dubbed multi-component dark matter — is to explain the stability of these distinct particles. Imposing a single ZN symmetry, which may be a remnant of a spontaneously broken U(1) gauge symmetry, seems to be the simplest way to simultaneously stabilize several dark matter particles. In this paper we systematically study scenarios for multi-component dark matter based on various ZN symmetries (N ≤ 10) and with different sets of scalar fields charged under it. A generic feature of these scenarios is that the number of stable particles is not determined by the Lagrangian but depends on the relations among the masses of the different fields charged under the ZN symmetry. We explicitly obtain and illustrate the regions of parameter space that are consistent with up to five dark matter particles. For N odd, all these particles turn out to be complex, whereas for N even one of them may be real. Within this framework, many new models for multi-component dark matter can be implemented.
A core outcome set for studies of gestational diabetes mellitus prevention and treatment
Authors:   the INSPIRED research group, Egan Aoife M. , Bogdanet Delia , Griffin Tomás P. , Kgosidialwa Oratile , Cervar-Zivkovic Mila , Dempsey Eugene , Allotey John , Alvarado Fernanda , Clarson Cheril , Cooray Shamil D. , de Valk Harold W. , Galjaard Sander , Loeken Mary R. , Maresh Michael J. A. , Napoli Angela , O’Shea Paula M. , Wender-Ozegowska Ewa , van Poppel Mireille N. M. , Thangaratinam Shakila , Crowther Caroline , Biesty Linda M. , Devane Declan , Dunne Fidelma P.
Published: March 2020

Aims/hypothesis

The aim of this systematic review was to develop core outcome sets (COSs) for trials evaluating interventions for the prevention or treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

We identified previously reported outcomes through a systematic review of the literature. These outcomes were presented to key stakeholders (including patient representatives, researchers and clinicians) for prioritisation using a three-round, e-Delphi study. A priori consensus criteria informed which outcomes were brought forward for discussion at a face-to-face consensus meeting where the COS was finalised.

Results

Our review identified 74 GDM prevention and 116 GDM treatment outcomes, which were presented to stakeholders in round 1 of the e-Delphi study. Round 1 was completed by 173 stakeholders, 70% (121/173) of whom went on to complete round 2; 84% (102/121) of round 2 responders completed round 3. Twenty-two GDM prevention outcomes and 30 GDM treatment outcomes were discussed at the consensus meeting. Owing to significant overlap between included prevention and treatment outcomes, consensus meeting stakeholders agreed to develop a single prevention/treatment COS. Fourteen outcomes were included in the final COS. These consisted of six maternal outcomes (GDM diagnosis, adherence to the intervention, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, requirement and type of pharmacological therapy for hyperglycaemia, gestational weight gain and mode of birth) and eight neonatal outcomes (birthweight, large for gestational age, small for gestational age, gestational age at birth, preterm birth, neonatal hypoglycaemia, neonatal death and stillbirth).

Conclusions/interpretation

This COS will enable future GDM prevention and treatment trials to measure similar outcomes that matter to stakeholders and facilitate comparison and combination of these studies.

Trial registration

This study was registered prospectively with the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database: http://www.comet-initiative.org/studies/details/686/
Tetralogy of Fallot Will be Treated Interventionally Within Two Decades
Authors: Rahmath Muhammed Riyas K. , Boudjemline Younes
Published: March 2020

Tetralogy of Fallot is considered a prototype congenital heart disease because of its embryological, anatomical, pathophysiological, and management aspects. Current management usually relies on a complete surgical repair that is electively performed between 3 and 6 months of age. With the advances of interventional cardiology especially in the fields of ventricular septal defect closure, stent, and pulmonary valve replacement, the question of complete repair of tetralogy of Fallot by interventional means can be discussed. Tetralogy of Fallot is a complex disease with multiple lesions, all individually amenable to transcatheter treatment. In this article, we will review current status of various aspects of tetralogy of Fallot focusing on interventional aspects, giving insights of what would be the ideal platform of a fully interventional repair.
The antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects of a copper-loaded zinc oxide phosphate cement
Authors: Wassmann Torsten , Schubert Andrea , Malinski Felix , Rosentritt Martin , Krohn Sebastian , Techmer Kirsten , Bürgers Ralf
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Evidence about modifications of dental luting materials to minimize biological failure at the “marginal gap” between teeth and fixed prosthodontics is scarce. We compared a copper-modified (Co-ZOP) and a conventional zinc oxide phosphate cement (ZOP) in terms of antimicrobial and cytotoxic potentials in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and methods

Specimens of ZOP and Co-ZOP were characterized by the mean arithmetic roughness (Ra) and surface free energy (SFE). Powder components were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) showed elemental material compositions. In vitro microbial adhesion was shown using SEM, luminescence, and fluorescence assays. CCK-8 assays of mouse fibroblasts (L929) and human gingival fibroblasts (GF-1) were performed after 6, 24, and 48 h of specimen incubation. In vivo, ZOP and Co-ZOP specimens were applied intraorally for 12 h; biofilm accumulation was shown using SEM.

Results

Ra of ZOP and Co-ZOP showed no significant differences; SFE was significantly higher for Co-ZOP. EDX exhibited minor copper radiation for Co-ZOP, none for ZOP. In vitro fungal adhesion to Co-ZOP was significantly higher than to ZOP; in vitro streptococcal adhesion, cytotoxicity, and in vivo biofilm formation were not significantly different.

Conclusions

Co-ZOP showed low surface allocations of copper with no improved antimicrobial properties compared with conventional ZOP in vitro or in vivo.

Clinical relevance

Antimicrobial effects and low cytotoxicity of biomaterials are important for the clinical outcome. Based on our in vitro and in vivo results, no clinical recommendation can be given for the tested Co-ZOP.
A decade of reconstructive surgery: outcome and perspectives of free tissue transfer in the head and neck. Experience of a single center institution
Authors: Spoerl Steffen , Schoedel Shlomo , Spanier Gerrit , Mueller Karolina , Meier Johannes K. , Reichert Torsten E. , Ettl Tobias
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Free flaps have become the standard option in reconstructive surgery of the head and neck. Even though many authors have outlined the reliability of free transplants, there is an ongoing discussion about treatment options for patients bearing particular risks as previous irradiation treatment. In this analysis, we aim to address these patients with particular risk profiles by comparing different flap entity outcome parameters.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 494 patients who underwent flap surgery between 2009 and 2018 in our department. Focusing on free microvascular transplants, we additionally analyzed the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap as the most frequently used vascular pedicled flap. Data analysis was performed by uni- and multivariate statistics.

Results

Overall flap success rate was 90%, with the radial forearm flap occurring to be most reliable (93%) in head and neck reconstruction. Previous radiation therapy (RT) and intraoperative revision of vascular anastomosis during primary surgery significantly resulted in impaired transplant outcome with a success rate of 91.8% (no RT) vs. 83.7% (RT), respectively. There was a negative linear correlation between incision to suture time and number of flaps per year (R2 = 0.67).

Conclusions

Preoperative radiation therapy and intraoperative revision of anastomosis significantly impair outcome of microvascular flaps in the head and neck and oral cavity, whereas patient’s age is not a predictor of flap failure. Increasing case number and experience reduces time of flap surgery as well as rate of complications and flap failure.
Modeling indirect N2O emissions along the N cascade from cropland soils to rivers
Authors: Billen Gilles , Garnier Josette , Grossel Agnès , Thieu Vincent , Théry Sylvain , Hénault Catherine
Published: March 2020

The frequently observed discrepancy between estimations of N2O emissions at regional or global scale based either on field data or inventories (bottom-up) or on direct atmospheric observations (top-down) suggests that riparian areas and river surfaces play a significant role as hot spots of emission. We developed a modeling procedure to assess N2O emissions occurring during the transfer of water masses from the subroot water pool of the watershed to the outlet of the river drainage network, including their passage through riparian wetlands. The model was applied to three river basins of increasing size located in the sedimentary geological area of the Paris basin (France) and validated by its capability to predict river N2O concentrations and fluxes across the river–atmosphere interface. At the scale of the Seine watershed, indirect emissions, i.e. emissions linked to agricultural practices but occurring elsewhere than directly at the field plot, are estimated to represent approximately 20% of the direct emissions from the watershed soils, in good agreement with previous estimates based on empirical accounting approaches. Denitrification in riparian zones is responsible for the largest share of these indirect emissions. The model results are very sensitive to the value of the ratio of N2O versus (N2 + N2O), in the final products of denitrification in rivers and wetlands. By calibration on river N2O concentrations, a value of 0.015 ± 0.05 is proposed for this ratio, in agreement with recent studies. This represents the main uncertainty factor of the model. In basins with conditions prone to increasing the value of this ratio, higher proportions of indirect N2O emissions might possibly be observed.
A Mixture-Function Mortality Model: Illustration of the Evolution of Premature Mortality
Authors: Zanotto Lucia , Canudas-Romo Vladimir , Mazzuco Stefano
Published: March 2020

Premature mortality is often a neglected component of overall deaths, and the most difficult to identify. However, it is important to estimate its prevalence. Following Pearson’s theory about mortality components, a definition of premature deaths and a parametric model to study its transformations are introduced. The model is a mixture of three distributions: a Half Normal for the first part of the death curve and two Skew Normals to fit the remaining pieces. One advantage of the model is the possibility of obtaining an explicit equation to compute life expectancy at birth and to break it down into mortality components. We estimated the mixture model for Sweden, France, East Germany and Czech Republic. In addition, to the well-known reduction in infant deaths, and compression and shifting trend of adult mortality, we were able to study the trend of the central part of the distribution of deaths in detail. In general, a right shift of the modal age at death for young adults is observed; in some cases, it is also accompanied by an increase in the number of deaths at these ages: in particular for France, in the last twenty years, premature mortality increases.
Cardioprotective properties of leptin in patients with excessive body mass
Authors: Paduszyńska Aleksandra , Sakowicz Agata , Banach Maciej , Maciejewski Marek , Dąbrowa Marek , Bielecka-Dąbrowa Agata
Published: March 2020

Background

Adipose tissue is producing adipokines that play different roles in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease.

Aims

The study aimed to assess the role of selected biomarkers in hypertensive patients with overweight and obesity compared with those with normal body-mass index (BMI).

Methods

A total of 62 patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (median age 54 (46–58) yrs., 57% males) and 51 with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (median age 53 (48–59) yrs., 37% males) were enrolled. Biochemical parameters, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin; asymmetric dimethylarginine; interleukin 6; and N-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen, were assessed in plasma. The evaluation of hemodynamic parameters was performed using SphygmoCor 9.0 tonometer. Echocardiography was performed using AlokaAlpha 10 Premier device.

Results

Overweight and obese patients had significantly higher concentration of leptin (34 vs 18 ng/ml; p = 0.03), ADMA (0.43 vs 0.38 μmol/l, p = 0.04), and lower concentration of adiponectin (5.3 vs 7 μg/ml, p = 0.01). The only significant difference in tonometry analysis was higher aortic pulse pressure (mmHg) in patients with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 group (34 vs 30; p = 0.03). These patients had also significantly lower peak systolic velocity and early diastolic velocity in tissue Doppler imaging of the right ventricle free wall at the level of the tricuspid annulus compared with controls (p = 0.02 and p = 0.001, respectively). The level of leptin is correlated negatively with the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (R Spearman = − 0.5; p = 0.002) and PWV (R = − 0.4; p = 0.01) and ADMA with total and LDL cholesterol (R = − 0.42; p = 0.008), and adiponectin is correlated positively with HDL cholesterol (R = 0.67; p = 0.0001).

Conclusions

Leptin concentrations were inversely proportional to LVMI and PWV in patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov study ID: NCT04175080.
Surgical treatment and long-term outcome of aortic valve endocarditis with periannular abscess
Authors: Croon S. I. , Angkasuwan A. , van Straten A. H. , Khamooshian A. , Elenbaas T. W. , Soliman-Hamad M. A.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Aortic valve endocarditis is occasionally complicated by periannular spreading of the infection and abscess formation, leading to a more aggressive course of the disease and life-threatening complications. This retrospective observational study investigated the long-term outcomes of patients with this complication, which was surgically managed with annular reconstruction and aortic valve replacement.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2018, 69 patients were identified with aortic valve endocarditis complicated by periannular abscess formation. All patients were treated with debridement of the infected tissue, gentamicin filling of abscess cavities, annulus reconstruction with bovine pericardium, and valve replacement. Long-term follow-up was performed to detect the rate of recurrence of endocarditis, aortic valve reoperation and survival.

Results

Mean age was 58 ± 15 years, 81% of patients were male, and the infected valve was native in 51% of all patients. The overall mortality was 36%, with a 30-day mortality of 13% and 120–day mortality of 16%. Five- and 10-year survival was 69.4 ± 12.0% and 55.7 ± 14.3%, respectively. Ten-year freedom from recurrent endocarditis was 83.5 ± 13.3%.

Conclusion

Endocarditis with annular abscess remains associated with high morbidity and mortality and aggressive treatment of the infected tissue and abscess cavities is crucial. Compared with earlier literature, long-term outcome of annular reconstruction in this series is comparable to that of aortic root replacement.
Does Skin Tone Matter? Immigrant Mobility in the U.S. Labor Market
Authors: Han JooHee
Published: March 2020

A rich literature has documented the negative association between dark skin tone and many dimensions of U.S.-born Americans’ life chances. Despite the importance of both skin tone and immigration in the American experience, few studies have explored the effect of skin tone on immigrant assimilation longitudinally. I analyze data from the New Immigrant Survey (NIS) 2003 to examine how skin tone is associated with occupational achievement at three time points: the last job held abroad, the first job held in the United States, and the current job. Dark-skinned immigrants experience steeper downward mobility at arrival in the United States and slower subsequent upward mobility relative to light-skinned immigrants, net of human and social capital, race/ethnicity, country of origin, visa type, and demographics. These findings shed light on multiple current literatures, including segmented assimilation theory, the multidimensionality of race, and the U.S. racial hierarchy.
Enhancing Capacitance Performance of Ti3C2Tx MXene as Electrode Materials of Supercapacitor: From Controlled Preparation to Composite Structure Construction
Authors: Zang Xiaobei , Wang Jiali , Qin Yijiang , Wang Teng , He Chengpeng , Shao Qingguo , Zhu Hongwei , Cao Ning
Published: March 2020

Ti3C2Tx, a novel two-dimensional layer material, is widely used as electrode materials of supercapacitor due to its good metal conductivity, redox reaction active surface, and so on. However, there are many challenges to be addressed which impede Ti3C2Tx obtaining the ideal specific capacitance, such as restacking, re-crushing, and oxidation of titanium. Recently, many advances have been proposed to enhance capacitance performance of Ti3C2Tx. In this review, recent strategies for improving specific capacitance are summarized and compared, for example, film formation, surface modification, and composite method. Furthermore, in order to comprehend the mechanism of those efforts, this review analyzes the energy storage performance in different electrolytes and influencing factors. This review is expected to predict redouble research direction of Ti3C2Tx materials in supercapacitors.
The Effects of Androgens on Cardiometabolic Syndrome: Current Therapeutic Concepts
Authors: Kirlangic Omer Faruk , Yilmaz-Oral Didem , Kaya-Sezginer Ecem , Toktanis Gamze , Tezgelen Aybuke Suveyda , Sen Ekrem , Khanam Armagan , Oztekin Cetin Volkan , Gur Serap
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS), as a bunch of metabolic disorders mainly characterized by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, atherosclerosis, central adiposity, and abdominal obesity triggering androgen deficiency, is one of the most critical threats to men. Although many significant preclinical and clinical findings explain CMS, new approaches toward common pathophysiological mechanisms and reasonable therapeutic targets are lacking.

Aim

To gain a further understanding of the role of androgen levels in various facets of CMS such as the constellation of cardiometabolic risk factors including central adiposity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, diabetes, and arterial hypertension and to define future directions for development of effective therapeutic modalities.

Methods

Clinical and experimental data were searched through scientific literature databases (PubMed) from 2009 to October 2019.

Main Outcome Measure

Evidence from basic and clinical research was gathered with regard to the causal impact and therapeutic roles of androgens on CMS.

Results

There are important mechanisms implicated in androgen levels and the risk of CMS. Low testosterone levels have many signs and symptoms on cardiometabolic and glycometabolic risks as well as abdominal obesity in men.

Clinical Implications

The implications of the findings can shed light on future improvements in androgen levels and add potentially predictive risk for CMS, as well as T2DM, abdominal obesity to guide clinical management in the early stage.

Strengths & Limitations

This comprehensive review refers to the association between androgens and cardiovascular health. A limitation of this study is the lack of large, prospective population-based studies that analyze the effects of testosterone treatment on CMS or mortality.

Conclusion

Low testosterone levels have several common features with metabolic syndrome. Thus, testosterone may have preventive role in the progress of metabolic syndrome and subsequent T2DM, abdominal obesity, and cardiovascular disease and likely affect aging men’s health mainly through endocrine and vascular mechanisms. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the therapeutic interventions directed at preventing CMS in men.
Laser-Based Devices for Female Genitourinary Indications: Position Statements From the European Society for Sexual Medicine (ESSM)
Authors: Romero-Otero Javier , Lauterbach Roy , Aversa Antonio , Serefoglu Ege Can , García-Gómez Borja , Parnham Arie , Skrodzka Marta , Krychman Michael , Reisman Yacov , Corona Giovanni , Lowenstein Lior
Published: March 2020

Background

Laser-based technologies have been commercially marketed as “wonder treatments” without a sufficient and adequate body of evidence. In addition, on July 30, 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding the safety of the use of laser-based devices for the following indications: vaginal “rejuvenation” or cosmetic vaginal procedures, vaginal conditions and symptoms related to menopause, urinary incontinence, and sexual function.

Aim

To perform a thorough review of the available literature regarding laser-based vaginal devices for the treatment of female genitourinary indications and summarize the results in several short statements according to the level of evidence.

Methods

A comprehensive review of the literature regarding laser treatments for gynecological indications was performed based on several databases. Eligible were studies that included at least 15 patients.

Outcomes

Several aspects, including preclinical data, have been investigated. For each topic covered, data on laser-based devices were analyzed.

Results

Despite the high heterogeneity of studies and its limitations, the committee released several statements regarding the use of laser-based devices for genitourinary indications.

Clinical Implications

Available data in the clinical setting are still poor, and the impact of these technologies on vaginal symptoms and signs has not been clearly established.

Strengths & Limitations

All studies have been evaluated by a panel of experts providing recommendations for clinical practice.

Conclusion

It is too early in the evolution and research of laser-based devices to make decisive recommendations regarding vaginal treatments. There is grave need to carry out randomized controlled trials with proper design for safety reasons, possible harm, and short-/long-term benefits for the different indications studied.
Do Conditional Cash Transfers Empower Women? Insights from Brazil’s Bolsa Família
Authors: Sugiyama Natasha Borges , Hunter Wendy
Published: March 2020

Conditional cash transfer programs (CCTs) have emerged as an important social welfare innovation across the Global South in the last two decades. That poor mothers are typically the primary recipients of the grants renders easy, but not necessarily correct, the notion that CCTs empower women. This article assesses the relationship between the world’s largest CCT, Brazil’s Bolsa Família, and women’s empowerment. To systematize and interpret existing research, including our own, it puts forth a three-part framework that examines the program’s effects on economic independence, physical health, and psychosocial well-being. Findings suggest that women experience some improved status along all three dimensions, but that improvements are far from universal. A core conclusion is that the broader institutional context in which the Bolsa Família is embedded—that is, ancillary services in health and social assistance—is crucial for conditioning the degree of empowerment obtained.
Voter Registration Databases and MRP: Toward the Use of Large-Scale Databases in Public Opinion Research
Authors: Ghitza Yair , Gelman Andrew
Published: March 2020

Declining telephone response rates have forced several transformations in survey methodology, including cell phone supplements, nonprobability sampling, and increased reliance on model-based inferences. At the same time, advances in statistical methods and vast amounts of new data sources suggest that new methods can combat some of these problems. We focus on one type of data source—voter registration databases—and show how they can improve inferences from political surveys. These databases allow survey methodologists to leverage political variables, such as party registration and past voting behavior, at a large scale and free of overreporting bias or endogeneity between survey responses. We develop a general process to take advantage of this data, which is illustrated through an example where we use multilevel regression and poststratification to produce vote choice estimates for the 2012 presidential election, projecting those estimates to 195 million registered voters in a postelection context. Our inferences are stable and reasonable down to demographic subgroups within small geographies and even down to the county or congressional district level. They can be used to supplement exit polls, which have become increasingly problematic and are not available in all geographies. We discuss problems, limitations, and open areas of research.
On Steenrod 𝕃-homology, generalized manifolds, and surgery
Authors: Hegenbarth Friedrich , Repovš Dušan
Published: March 2020

The aim of this paper is to show the importance of the Steenrod construction of homology theories for the disassembly process in surgery on ageneralized n-manifoldXn, in order to produce an element of generalized homology theory, which is basic for calculations. In particular, we show how to construct an element of thenth Steenrod homology group$H^{st}_{n} (X^{n}, \mathbb {L}^+)$, where 𝕃+is the connected covering spectrum of the periodic surgery spectrum 𝕃, avoiding the use of thegeometricsplitting procedure, the use of which is standard in surgery ontopologicalmanifolds.
Correlates of Warning: Territory, Democracy, and Casualty Aversion in Terrorist Tactics
Authors: Brown Joseph M.
Published: March 2020

Terrorists attack civilian targets but there is variation in how many civilians they kill. Terrorists may deliberately harm civilians, or they may adopt a less bloody approach, demolishing businesses, transit systems, and other civilian property while employing tactics to avert civilian casualties. One such tactic is to warn civilians before an attack, allowing them to flee the area. With warnings as an example, this study considers why terrorists might adopt casualty-aversion tactics. An analysis of 12,235 bombings by 131 terrorist groups in the years 1970 to 2016 finds that warnings are most common when terrorists fight democracies and when they lack territorial strongholds. Ideological factors such as religion are not significant predictors of warnings. These findings suggest a need to revisit the claim that religion incentivizes indiscriminate terrorism. They also suggest a strategic logic behind casualty-aversion tactics. Terrorists fighting democracies may spare civilians to appear legitimate in citizens’ eyes. Terrorists without strongholds may spare civilians because they rely on the state's population for support. At first glance, my findings appear to contradict civil war literature arguing that militants with strongholds use violence more discriminately. However, terrorism occurs in areas of state control. Militants with strongholds can use indiscriminate terrorism against state-governed civilians without alienating their own supporters elsewhere.
Material States: China, Russia, and the incorporation of a cross-border indigenous people
Authors: PULFORD ED
Published: March 2020

The once-unified indigenous northeast Asian people known as the Hezhe in China and the Nanai in Russia are little-discussed in any discipline, but their long experiences of cross-border division and, more recently, renewed inter-community contact, offer us a new framework for understanding both Chinese and Russian states in the region. As I show here ethnographically, today's Hezhe in northern Heilongjiang province (China) and Nanai in Khabarovsk territory (Russia) live amid the physical furniture of very different polities. But rather than merely reflecting their separation, I argue, these distinct surroundings in fact invite us to consider how the incorporation of Nanai/Hezhe into China and Russia have beenconstitutedin important ways by the uses and flows of material objects. In support of this argument, which draws on recent anthropological insights concerning materiality to push back against existing identity-, landscape-, or production-focused theories of Chinese and Russian power, I examine sources in several languages to develop alongue duréeaccount of materially mediated interactions between Nanai/Hezhe and China and Russia. From early imperial tribute through to socialist command economies to postsocialist cross-border trade, I show how—with notable continuity—states have been embodied in flows and usage of goods, bringing about the incorporation of Hezhe and Nanai into separate realms with immanent material existences.