bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Recycling of End‐of‐Life Polyamide 6 via Ring Closing Depolymerization
Authors: Alberti Christoph , Figueira Ruben , Hofmann Melanie , Koschke Svetlana , Enthaler Stephan
Published: November 2019

The chemical recycling of end‐of‐life polymers, a sequence of depolymerization and polymerization reactions, enables the conserving of fossil resources and can add some value to the circular economy. In this study, a process for the depolymerization of end‐of‐life Nylon 6 via ring‐closing reactions to produce as building block N‐acetylcaprolactam have been set up. In detail, a combination of acetic anhydride as depolymerization reagent and catalytic amounts of 4‐dimethylaminopyridine allows under microwave irradiation and within short times (15 min) the conversion of end‐of‐life Nylon 6 to N‐acetylcaprolactam under solvent‐less conditions. Applying optimized conditions a sequence of Nylon 6 goods was transformed in good yields. The product N‐acetylcaprolactam was converted to ϵ‐caprolactam by transfer of the acetyl functionality to 2‐aminoethanol to give N‐(hydroxyethyl)acetamide a precursor for poly(N‐vinylacetamide). The generated ϵ‐caprolactam can be used as monomer for the synthesis of new Nylon 6, therefore a chemical recycling of the monomeric unit of Nylon 6 is feasible.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder and subthreshold post‐traumatic stress disorder in recent male asylum seekers: An expected but overlooked “European” epidemic
Authors: Sacchetti Emilio , Garozzo Andrea , Mussoni Christian , Liotta Daniele , Novelli Gaia , Tamussi Elena , Deste Giacomo , Vita Antonio
Published: November 2019

The literature shows an increased risk for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among illegal migrants. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of PTSD, subthreshold PTSD, the degree of disability, and differences in sociodemographic and anamnestic characteristics associated with these clinical conditions in a sample of newly arrived migrants.

Two hundred male asylum seekers from West sub‐Saharan Africa were evaluated for traumatic life events, PTSD symptoms, and disability through the Life Events Checklist for DSM‐5 (LEC‐5), the Primary Care PTSD Screen, the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5, and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0).

The current prevalence of PTSD and subthreshold PTSD was 9.5% and 12.0%, respectively. PTSD and subthreshold PTSD subgroups presented higher WHODAS 2.0 scores and LEC‐5 events, an over‐representation of individuals with childhood adversities and an excess of premigration psychiatric contacts unrelated to PTSD spectrum disorders and peri‐migration offences. Witnessing a traumatic event and disability in understanding and communication predicted both the presence of PTSD symptoms and PTSD status.

PTSD spectrum disorders should be considered among the clinical emergencies associated with asylum seeker condition, and targeted interventions also involving the host citizens should be predisposed.
Strategic renewal: Beyond the functional resource role of occupational members
Authors: Pettit Krista L. , Crossan Mary M.
Published: November 2019

Research summary

In this qualitative study of strategic renewal at a North American news organization we reveal that the treatment of occupational members as resources in strategy literature is necessary, but insufficient. Their activities are critical for organizational survival and competition but also the work needed to maintain their occupational identity. Furthermore, the prevailing research evidence that occupational members impede strategic renewal is incomplete. Our study challenges the narrow view of occupational members as resources that constrain strategic renewal by illustrating how occupational identity “work” is instrumental in facilitating and disrupting strategic renewal. Our findings emphasize the importance of adopting broader definitions of work than the functional definition used in strategic renewal research. We also highlight how the activities of nonmanagerial actors contribute to strategic renewal.

Managerial summary

During times of change, research highlights how occupational members such as doctors, nurses, engineers, and academics, disrupt and resist change. Our study demonstrates that the same cause of disruption—sustaining their distinctive occupational identity—is critical in facilitating strategic renewal. For managers, we illustrate how and why this occurs and provide practical guidance to leverage this understanding while managing change in occupationally‐dominated organizations.
Firm behavior and the evolution of activism: Strategic decisions and the emergence of protest in US communities
Authors: Piazza Alessandro , Perretti Fabrizio
Published: November 2019

Research summary

How do firms' strategic decisions affect the emergence and evolution of activism? We examine this question through a study of protests against nuclear power plants in the United States. We find that the decision to cancel construction of a nuclear unit—a substantial victory for activists—is associated with an upsurge in antinuclear protest activity, as emboldened activists stay mobilized even once the level of threat abates. We also find that when a firm decides to complete a nuclear power plant, thereby marking a defeat for activists, antinuclear protests wind down and we witness an increase in mobilization towards other causes. We discuss the implications of our findings for the study of the interaction between social movements and firms.

Managerial summary

The interaction between firms and activists is markedly strategic, and episodes of confrontation are often rooted in decisions made by firms. In this article, we examine how decisions taken by firms might impact activism in local communities through a comprehensive study of mobilization targeting nuclear power plants in the United States between 1960 and 1995. We find that when a firm cancels a proposed nuclear unit, antinuclear protest activity increases, as emboldened activist press the advantage. When a firm decides to complete a nuclear power plant, however, thereby defeated activists will demobilize and focus their attention on other causes. Companies should thus carefully consider how their decisions might affect activist mobilization, especially in contexts where opposition from local communities is a significant factor.
Nonepitaxial Gold‐Tipped ZnSe Hybrid Nanorods for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Xiaojie , Wang Fei , Javaid Shaghraf , Pang Yingping , Chen Jiayi , Yin Zongyou , Wang Shaobin , Li Yunguo , Jia Guohua
Published: November 2019

For the first time, colloidal gold (Au)–ZnSe hybrid nanorods (NRs) with controlled size and location of Au domains are synthesized and used for hydrogen production by photocatalytic water splitting. Au tips are found to grow on the apices of ZnSe NRs nonepitaxially to form an interface with no preference of orientation between Au(111) and ZnSe(001). Density functional theory calculations reveal that the Au tips on ZnSe hybrid NRs gain enhanced adsorption of H compared to pristine Au, which favors the hydrogen evolution reaction. Photocatalytic tests reveal that the Au tips on ZnSe NRs effectively enhance the photocatalytic performance in hydrogen generation, in which the single Au‐tipped ZnSe hybrid NRs show the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of 437.8 µmol h−1 g−1 in comparison with a rate of 51.5 µmol h−1 g−1 for pristine ZnSe NRs. An apparent quantum efficiency of 1.3% for hydrogen evolution reaction for single Au‐tipped ZnSe hybrid NRs is obtained, showing the potential application of this type of cadmium (Cd)‐free metal–semiconductor hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) in solar hydrogen production. This work opens an avenue toward Cd‐free hybrid NP‐based photocatalysis for clean fuel production.
Deletion of the N‐terminal domain of the yeast vacuolar (Na+,K+)/H+ antiporter Vnx1p improves salt tolerance in yeast and transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Cagnac Olivier , Baghour Mourad , Jaime‐Pérez Noelia , Aranda‐Sicilia M. Nieves , Sánchez‐Romero M. Elena , Rodríguez‐Rosales M. Pilar , Venema Kees
Published: November 2019

Cation/proton antiporters play a major role in the control of cytosolic ion concentrations in prokaryotes and eukaryotes organisms. In yeast, we previously demonstrated that Vnx1p is a vacuolar monovalent cation/H+ exchanger showing Na+/H+ and K+/H+ antiporter activity. We have also shown that disruption of VNX1 results in an almost complete abolishment of vacuolar Na+/H+ exchange, but yeast cells overexpressing the complete protein do not show improved salinity tolerance. In this study, we have identified an autoinhibitory N‐terminal domain and have engineered a constitutively activated version of Vnx1p, by removing this domain. Contrary to the wild type protein, the activated protein has a pronounced effect on yeast salt tolerance and vacuolar pH. Expression of this truncated VNX1 gene also improves Arabidopsis salt tolerance and increases Na+ and K+ accumulation of salt grown plants thus suggesting a biotechnological potential of activated Vnx1p to improve salt tolerance of crop plants.
Concomitant use of drugs known to cause interactions with oral antiplatelets—polypharmacy in acute coronary syndrome outpatients in Finland
Authors: Prami Tuire , Khanfir Houssem , Hasvold Pål , Reissell Eeva , Airaksinen Juhani , Kytö Ville
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Use of oral antiplatelets (OAPs) is essential for preventing thrombotic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Effects of clopidogrel, prasugrel, and ticagrelor may be enhanced due to pharmacodynamic interactions, but as CYP substrates, they are prone to pharmacokinetic interactions too. The aim was to study polypharmacy in ACS patients following hospital discharge.

Methods

This observational drug utilization study linked patient-level data from nationwide registers. The study population consisted of adult ACS patients discharged from Finnish hospitals in 2009–2013. Logistic regression was used to model the probability of drug-drug interactions with odd ratios for predefined predictors such as age, gender, and ACS type.

Results

In the cohort of 54,416 ACS patients, 91% of those treated with OAP received clopidogrel. Of clopidogrel-treated patients, 12% purchased warfarin at least once while on clopidogrel treatment. Old age, male sex, ST-elevation myocardial infarction as index event, and a history of previous ACS events were associated with an increased risk of warfarin-OAP interaction (p < 0.001 for all). Ibuprofen, and serotonergic drugs tramadol, citalopram, and escitalopram were the next most common drugs causing pharmacodynamic interactions. In general, concomitant use of drugs known to cause pharmacokinetic interactions was rare, but both esomeprazole and omeprazole were prescribed in more than 6% of clopidogrel-treated patients.

Conclusions

Warfarin and ibuprofen were the most commonly used concomitant medications causing pharmacodynamic interactions and potentially increasing the risk of bleeding in OAP-treated patients. Esomeprazole and omeprazole were used in clopidogrel-treated patients although there are alternatives available for gastric protection.
When an incidental MRI finding becomes a clinical issue
Authors: Schwarz-Nemec Ursula , Friedrich Klaus M. , Arnoldner Michael A. , Schwarz Felix K. , Weber Michael , Trattnig Siegfried , Grohs Josef G. , Nemec Stefan F.
Published: November 2019

Background

On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), posterior lumbar subcutaneous edema (PLSE) is a frequent incidental, yet unclear finding within the deep subcutaneous perifascial tissue. This study aimed to investigate PLSE in various pathological lumbar conditions.

Methods

This retrospective study included the MR images of the lumbar spine of 279 patients (age range 18–82 years) without cardiovascular, renal or hepatic diseases, 79 of whom had low-grade disc degeneration, 101 combined endplate and facet joint degeneration, 53 axial spondyloarthritis and 46 infectious spondylodiscitis. There were 232 patients with a body mass index (BMI) <30, and 47 with a BMI ≥30 (obese). For each group, the relationship between PLSE and BMI was analyzed using multiple logistic regression, and between PLSE extension and BMI using ordinal regression.

Results

A PLSE was found in 11/79 (13.9%) patients with disc degeneration, 37/101 (36.6%) with endplate and facet joint degeneration, 7/53 (13.2%) with spondyloarthritis, and 28/46 (60.9%) with spondylodiscitis. For each group, a statistically significant relationship was demonstrated between PLSE and BMI (P = 0.000–P = 0.031), except for spondylodiscitis (P = 0.054), as well as between PLSE extension and BMI (P = 0.000–P = 0.049). A PLSE was found in 21.1% of nonobese and 72.3% of obese patients (P = 0.000).

Conclusion

The presence of PLSE seems to be associated with various lumbar conditions, particularly in obese patients. Its perifascial location may suggest a potential fascial origin; however, PLSE should not to be confused with posttraumatic, postsurgical or infectious edema or edema associated with internal diseases.
Individual variations of the superior petrosal vein complex and their microsurgical relevance in 50 cases of trigeminal microvascular decompression
Authors: Basamh Mohammed , Sinning Nico , Kehler Uwe
Published: November 2019

Background

We investigated the understudied anatomical variations of the superior petrosal vein (SPV) complex (SPVC), which may play some role in dictating the individual complication risk following SPVC injury.

Methods

Microvascular decompressions of the trigeminal nerve between September 2012 and July 2016. All operations utilized an SPVC preserving technique. Preoperative balanced fast field echo (bFFE) magnetic resonance imaging, or equivalent sequences, and operative videos were studied for individual SPVC anatomical features.

Results

Applied imaging and operative SPVC anatomy were described for fifty patients (mean age, 67.18 years; female sex and right-sided operations, 58% each). An SPVC component was sacrificed intentionally in 6 and unintentionally in only 7 cases. Twenty-nine different individual variations were observed; 80% of SPVCs had either 2 SPVs with 3 or 1 SPV with 2, 3, or 4 direct tributaries. Most SPVCs had 1 SPV (64%) and 2 SPVs (32%). The SPV drainage point into the superior petrosal sinus was predominantly between the internal auditory meatus and Meckel cave (85.7% of cases). The vein of the cerebellopontine fissure was the most frequent direct tributary (86%), followed by the pontotrigeminal vein in 80% of SPVCs. Petrosal-galenic anastomosis was detected in at least 38% of cases. At least 1 SPV in 54% of the cases and at least 1 direct tributary in 90% disturbed the operative field. The tributaries were more commonly sacrificed.

Conclusions

The extensive anatomical variation of SPVC is depicted. Most SPVCs fall into 4 common general configurations and can usually be preserved. BFFE or equivalent sequences remarkably facilitated the intraoperative understanding of the individual SPVC in most cases.
Classroom effect on primary school students’ self-concept in literacy and mathematics
Authors: Vasalampi Kati , Pakarinen Eija , Torppa Minna , Viljaranta Jaana , Lerkkanen Marja-Kristiina , Poikkeus Anna-Maija
Published: November 2019

According to the big-fish-little-pond effect (BFLP) model, high individual academic performance in a particular subject is related to high self-concept in that subject, whereas high average classroom performance has a negative effect on self-concept. In the present study, data from Finnish primary school students in grade 3 (504 students), grade 4 (487 students), and grade 6 (365 students) are used to examine whether the assumptions of the BFLP effect model hold already in primary school. Furthermore, we examined gender differences in BFLP effect. The results showed that as expected students’ high performance in literacy and in mathematics was related to high self-concept in the same subject. Support for the negative classroom effect was small and it depended on the school subject and student’s gender. That is, a high average classroom performance already in grade 3 had a negative but small effect on boys’ self-concept in mathematics. In literacy and among girls, only little support was found for the negative classroom effect.
Active-Offer Nurse-Led PrEP (PrEP-RN) Referrals: Analysis of Uptake Rates and Reasons for Declining
Authors: O’Byrne Patrick , Orser Lauren , Haines Marlene
Published: November 2019

While pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention strategy, its uptake is limited. To address barriers, we piloted a nurse-led PrEP clinic in an STI clinic and had public health nurses refer patients during STI follow-up. We recorded the number of PrEP offers and declines and clinic uptake. We conducted a thematic analysis of patients’ responses from nursing notes written at the time patients declined PrEP. From August 6, 2018 to August 5, 2019, nurses offered a PrEP referral to 261 patients who met our criteria; only 47.5% accepted. Qualitative analysis identified four themes: (1) perceptions of risk, (2) lack of interest, (3) inability to manage, and (4) concerns about PrEP. Our patients did not feel sufficiently at-risk for HIV to use PrEP and maintained that PrEP was for a reckless “other”. This analysis sheds light on how assumptions about risk affect PrEP uptake, particularly among those at-risk for HIV.
Local modal participation analysis of nonlinear systems using Poincaré linearization
Authors: Hamzi Boumediene , Abed Eyad H.
Published: November 2019

The paper studies an extension to nonlinear systems of a recently proposed approach to the definition of modal participation factors. A definition is given for local mode-in-state participation factors for smooth nonlinear autonomous systems. While the definition is general, the resulting measures depend on the assumed uncertainty law governing the system initial condition, as in the linear case. The work follows Hashlamoun et al. (IEEE Trans Autom Control 54(7):1439–1449 2009) in taking a mathematical expectation (or set-theoretic average) of a modal contribution measure over an uncertain set of system initial state. Poincaré linearization is used to replace the nonlinear system with a locally equivalent linear system. It is found that under a symmetry assumption on the distribution of the initial state, the tractable calculation and analytical formula for mode-in-state participation factors found for the linear case persists to the nonlinear setting. This paper is dedicated to the memory of Professor Ali H. Nayfeh.
Financial Integration in the GCC Region: Market Size Versus National Effects
Authors: Arin Kerim Peren , Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Kyriacou Kyriacos , Spagnolo Nicola
Published: November 2019

This paper examines financial spillovers between the four largest equity markets (by market capitalization) in the GCC region using a VAR-GARCH (1,1) framework that sheds light on interdependence as well as the effects of the 2014 oil crisis. Since the UAE is a federation including two stock exchanges (Abu Dhabi and Dubai), it is possible to test whether being part of a federal union matters more than market size in terms of financial integration. Our results suggest that the latter is more important, since we could not find evidence of stronger linkages between the Abu Dhabi and Dubai markets compared to those between other markets in the region. By contrast, there are significant spillover effects, both in the mean and in the volatility, from the largest market of Saudi Arabia to Qatar and the two markets in the UAE, which confirms that market capitalization is a more important determinant of financial integration than belonging to a federal union. Further, spillovers from the larger markets have become stronger as a result of the 2014 oil crisis. Finally, there is also evidence of spillovers from the smaller to the larger markets.
Correction to: How Low Can House Prices Go? Estimating a Conservative Lower Bound
Authors: Bogin Alexander N. , Bruestle Stephen D. , Doerner William M.
Published: November 2019

The article How Low Can House Prices Go? Estimating a Conservative Lower Bound, written by Alexander N. Bogin, Stephen D. Bruestle, and William M. Doerner, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal (currently SpringerLink) on November 2015 without open access.
Overcoming the dependent variable problem in studying food policy
Authors: Candel Jeroen , Daugbjerg Carsten
Published: November 2019

The development of a comparative food policy research agenda has been hampered by the dependent variable problem of how to delineate the policy field. Through a concise literature review, we show that the existing literature has conceptualised food policy as policy outputs, institutional orders, or discursive constructs. Focusing on the policy outputs, we define food policy as a set of policy outputs adopted to address one or more food system activities (production, processing and packaging, distribution and retailing, and consumption) with the explicit aim of affecting food system outcomes in a desired direction. The paper develops a heuristic encompassing four dimensions along which food policy outputs may differ: (i) policy scope, (ii) targeting of policy efforts, (iii) type of policy instruments applied and how these are calibrated, and (iv) integration of the various components of the policy complex. These four dimensions can be applied to characterise individual food policies and compare across countries and time. Comparing and tracking the development of food policy along these dimensions would allow for addressing follow-up questions about impacts and what explains policy change.
Spatially Democratic Pedagogy: Children’s Design and Co-Creation of Classroom Space
Authors: Clement Jennifer
Published: November 2019

Young children’s participation has been specifically foregrounded as a pedagogical element within education policy in Wales. However, there is currently little evidence that this policy concerned with participation has been enacted. This research describes an intervention, Spatially Democratic Pedagogy, as a pedagogical approach to foster young children’s participation, through design and co-creation of their classroom space. A group of six children, aged 4–5 years, alongside their teacher, were supported through a design-based intervention to enact, document and analyse this process. The research draws upon social understandings of space, as well as Froebel’s ideas about construction of communal gardens. Findings illustrate notable differences in the roles and relationships that formed between the teacher and the children when using Spatially Democratic Pedagogy. Children were teachers, planners, architects, negotiators and problem-solvers, as they participated in co-construction of their space. The argument is made that it is the process of design and co-creation that becomes the mediator for pedagogical change and acts as the driver for children’s participation. The co-construction of space is an important element to support young children’s participation in early years classrooms.
Digital Mental Health for Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Boumparis Nikolaos , Schulte Mieke H. J. , Riper Heleen
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Only about 20% of people suffering from substance use disorders access available treatments due to various obstacles; digital interventions could potentially overcome some of these. Meta-analyses suggest the strongest evidence for interventions targeting alcohol use reduction, followed by cannabis and illicit substances. However, most randomized controlled trials (RCTs) used unguided standalone interventions compared to non-active controls, with limited follow-up periods and disregarded comorbidity. This review examines the literature published over the last three years (2016–2019), with a focus on recent RCTs and whether they addressed some of these gaps.

Recent findings

Except for digital interventions targeting alcohol use, the number of RCTs in the last three years is limited. Although there is considerable heterogeneity between the studies, most of them applied unguided add-on interventions compared to active control groups, and a limited number investigated guided interventions. In addition, there is a need for longer follow-up periods, active rather than non-active control groups, outcome standardization, and increased focus on comorbidity.

Although the number of studies using guided add-on or blended interventions compared to active controls has increased, future studies should consider our identified gaps and suggestions to further strengthen the evidence of digital interventions for reducing the use of alcohol and other substances.
An EEG-Based Attentiveness Recognition System Using Hilbert–Huang Transform and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Peng Chia-Ju , Chen Yi-Chun , Chen Chun-Chuan , Chen Shih-Jui , Cagneau Barthélemy , Chassagne Luc
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Attentiveness recognition benefits the detection of the mental state and concentration when humans perform specific tasks. Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT) is useful for the analysis of nonlinear or nonstationary bio-signals including brainwaves. In this work, a method is proposed for the characterization of attentiveness levels by using electroencephalogram (EEG) signals and HHT analysis.

Methods

Single-channel EEG signals from the frontal area were acquired from participants at different levels of attentiveness and were decomposed into a set of intrinsic mode functions (IMF) by empirical mode decomposition (EMD). Hilbert transform analysis was applied to each IMF to obtain the marginal frequency spectrum. Then the band powers and spectral entropies (SEs) were selected as the attributes of a support vector machine (SVM) for a two-class classification task.

Results

Compared with the predictive models of approximate entropy (ApEn) and fast Fourier transform (FFT), the results show that the band powers extracted from IMF2 to IMF5 of $$\alpha$$α and $$\beta$$β waves and their SE can best discriminate between attentive and relaxed states with the average classification accuracy of 84.80%.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this integrated signal processing method is capable of attentiveness recognition that can offer efficient differentiation and may be used in a clinical setting for the detection of attention deficit.
Incidence of frontotemporal disorders in Olmsted County: A population‐based study
Authors: Turcano Pierpaolo , Stang Cole D. , Mielke Michelle M. , Martin Peter R. , Upadhyaya Sudhindra G. , Josephs Keith A. , Boeve Bradley F. , Knopman David S. , Petersen Ronald C. , Savica Rodolfo
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Frontotemporal dementia disorders (FTDs) are heterogeneous phenotypical behavioral and language disorders usually associated with frontal and/or temporal lobe degeneration. We investigated their incidence in a population‐based cohort.

Methods

Using a records‐linkage system, we identified all patients with a diagnostic code for dementia in Olmsted County, MN, 1995–2010, and confirmed the diagnosis of FTD. A behavioral neurologist verified the clinical diagnosis and determined phenotypes.

Results

We identified 35 FTDs cases. Overall, the incidence of FTDs was 4.3/100,000/year (95% CI: 2.9, 5.7). Incidence was higher in men (6.3/100,000, 95% CI 3.6, 9.0) than women (2.9/100,000; 95% CI: 1.3, 4.5); we observed an increased trend over time (B = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.54, 1.11, P < .001). At autopsy, clinical diagnosis was confirmed in eight (72.7%) cases.

Discussion

We observed an increased incidence and trends of FTDs over time. This may reflect a better recognition by clinicians and improvement of clinical criteria and diagnostic tools.
Dry-running mechanical seals provide a reliable alternative to liquid-lubricated seals
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: November 2019

As reported last month (Sealing Technology October 2019, page 1), EagleBurgmann Germany GmbH & Co. KG has developed a dry-running double seal that is targeted at applications in the chemical, pharmaceutical and foodprocessing industries. Called the SeccoMix R, its compact cartridge design makes it easy to install and suitable for use in process engineering machinery such as reactors, agitators or dryers. In this article, the company explains how this technology can be used as a reliable alternative to a liquid-lubricated seal, by describing an application that involves the use of the SeccoMix R in a paddle dryer which is used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.
Overcoming Challenges in the Medical Response to Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas
Authors: Randolph Richard J. , Lafferty Amy
Published: November 2019

In September 2019, the northwest Bahamas suffered unparalleled damages due to Hurricane Dorian. The storm disrupted all the essential community services, including water, electricity, and medicine. Heart to Heart International provided medical support in a very austere environment to the people of Abaco island. This article examines the challenges faced by the response team from Heart to Heart International in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Dorian.
Antimicrobial-resistant pathogens associated with adult healthcare-associated infections: Summary of data reported to the National Healthcare Safety Network, 2015–2017
Authors: Weiner-Lastinger Lindsey M. , Abner Sheila , Edwards Jonathan R. , Kallen Alexander J. , Karlsson Maria , Magill Shelley S. , Pollock Daniel , See Isaac , Soe Minn M. , Walters Maroya S. , Dudeck Margaret A.
Published: November 2019

Objective:

Describe common pathogens and antimicrobial resistance patterns for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) that occurred during 2015–2017 and were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN).

Methods:

Data from central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), ventilator-associated events (VAEs), and surgical site infections (SSIs) were reported from acute-care hospitals, long-term acute-care hospitals, and inpatient rehabilitation facilities. This analysis included device-associated HAIs reported from adult location types, and SSIs among patients ≥18 years old. Percentages of pathogens with nonsusceptibility (%NS) to selected antimicrobials were calculated for each HAI type, location type, surgical category, and surgical wound closure technique.

Results:

Overall, 5,626 facilities performed adult HAI surveillance during this period, most of which were general acute-care hospitals with <200 beds. Escherichia coli (18%), Staphylococcus aureus (12%), and Klebsiella spp (9%) were the 3 most frequently reported pathogens. Pathogens varied by HAI and location type, with oncology units having a distinct pathogen distribution compared to other settings. The %NS for most pathogens was significantly higher among device-associated HAIs than SSIs. In addition, pathogens from long-term acute-care hospitals had a significantly higher %NS than those from general hospital wards.

Conclusions:

This report provides an updated national summary of pathogen distributions and antimicrobial resistance among select HAIs and pathogens, stratified by several factors. These data underscore the importance of tracking antimicrobial resistance, particularly in vulnerable populations such as long-term acute-care hospitals and intensive care units.
SLOW P-POINT ULTRAFILTERS
Authors: JIN RENLING
Published: November 2019

We answer a question of Blass, Di Nasso, and Forti [2, 7] by proving, assuming Continuum Hypothesis or Martin’s Axiom, that (1) there exists a P-point which is not interval-to-one and (2) there exists an interval-to-one P-point which is neither quasi-selective nor weakly Ramsey.
Rigidity dimension of algebras
Authors: CHEN HONGXING , FANG MING , KERNER OTTO , KOENIG STEFFEN , YAMAGATA KUNIO
Published: November 2019

A new homological dimension, called rigidity dimension, is introduced to measure the quality of resolutions of finite dimensional algebras (especially of infinite global dimension) by algebras of finite global dimension and big dominant dimension. Upper bounds of the dimension are established in terms of extensions and of Hochschild cohomology, and finiteness in general is derived from homological conjectures. In particular, the rigidity dimension of a non-semisimple group algebra is finite and bounded by the order of the group. Then invariance under stable equivalences is shown to hold, with some exceptions when there are nodes in case of additive equivalences, and without exceptions in case of triangulated equivalences. Stable equivalences of Morita type and derived equivalences, both between self-injective algebras, are shown to preserve rigidity dimension as well.
Counting higher order tangencies for plane curves
Authors: Zahl Joshua
Published: November 2019

We prove that n plane algebraic curves determine O(n(k+2)/(k+1)) points of kth order tangency. This generalizes an earlier result of Ellenberg, Solymosi and Zahl on the number of (first order) tangencies determined by n plane algebraic curves.
Post-operative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use for pain in infant and paediatric cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Savva Dimitrios A. , Kishk Omayma A. , Morgan Jill A. , Biggs Jessica M. , Seung Hyunuk , Bauer Caroline
Published: November 2019

Background:

Pain control is an important element of care for patients after surgery, leading to better outcomes, quicker transitions to recovery, and improvement in quality of life. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in children after cardiac surgery

Materials and Methods:

Patients between the ages of 1 month and 18 years of age, who received intravenous or oral non-steroidal anti-inflammataory drugs after cardiac surgery, from November 2015 until September 2017 were included in this study. The primary endpoints were non-steroidal anti-inflammataory drug-associated renal dysfunction and post-operative bleeding. Secondary endpoints examined the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammataory drug use on total daily dose of narcotics, number of intravenous PRN narcotic doses received, and pain assessment score. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics for frequencies and ranges. Multivariate analysis was performed to measure the association of all predictors and outcomes. Wilcoxon singed-rank test was performed for secondary outcomes.

Results:

There was no association between the incidence of renal dysfunction and the use of or duration of non-steroidal anti-inflammataory drugs; in addition no association was found with increased chest tube output. There was a statistically significant reduction of patients’ median Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scores (2–0; p = 0.003), seen within first 24 hours after initiation of ketorolac, and a significant reduction of morphine requirements seen from day 1 to day 2 (0.3 mg/kg versus 0.1 mg/kg; p < 0.001) and number of as-needed doses.

Conclusion:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammataory drugs in paediatric cardiac surgery patients are safe and effective for post-operative pain management.
Tissue characterisation and myocardial mechanics using cardiac MRI in children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sunthankar Sudeep , Parra David A. , George-Durrett Kristen , Crum Kimberly , Chew Joshua D. , Christensen Jason , Raucci Frank J. , Xu Meng , Slaughter James C. , Soslow Jonathan H.
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Distinguishing between hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other causes ofleft ventricular hypertrophy can be difficult in children. We hypothesised that cardiac MRI T1 mapping could improve diagnosis of paediatric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and that measures of myocardial function would correlate with T1 times and extracellular volume fraction.

Methods:

Thirty patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy completed MRI with tissue tagging, T1-mapping, and late gadolinium enhancement. Left ventricular circumferential strain was calculated from tagged images. T1, partition coefficient, and synthetic extracellular volume were measured at base, mid, apex, and thickest area of myocardial hypertrophy. MRI measures compared to cohort of 19 healthy children and young adults. Mann–Whitney U, Spearman’s rho, and multivariable logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients had increased left ventricular ejection fraction and indexed mass. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients had decreased global strain and increased native T1 (−14.3% interquartile range [−16.0, −12.1] versus −17.3% [−19.0, −15.7], p < 0.001 and 1015 ms [991, 1026] versus 990 ms [972, 1001], p = 0.019). Partition coefficient and synthetic extracellular volume were not increased in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Global native T1 correlated inversely with ejection fraction (ρ = −0.63, p = 0.002) and directly with global strain (ρ = 0.51, p = 0.019). A logistic regression model using ejection fraction and native T1 distinguished between hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and control with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.91.

Conclusion:

In this cohort of paediatric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, strain was decreased and native T1 was increased compared with controls. Native T1 correlated with both ejection fraction and strain, and a model using native T1 and ejection fraction differentiated patients with and without hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Kant’s Non-Positivistic Concept of Law
Authors: Alexy Robert
Published: November 2019

The main thesis of this article is that Kant’s concept of law is a non-positivistic one, notwithstanding the fact that his legal philosophy includes very strong positivistic elements. My argument takes as its point of departure the distinction of three elements, around which the debate between positivism and non-positivism turns: first, authoritative issuance, second, social efficacy, and, third, moral correctness. All positivistic theories are confined to the first two elements. As soon as a necessary connection between these first two elements and the third element, moral correctness, is established, the picture changes fundamentally. Positivism becomes non-positivism. There exist two kinds of connections between law and morality: classifying and qualifying connections. This distinction stems from different sorts of effects that moral defects give rise to. A classifying connection leads to the loss of legal validity, whereas a qualifying connection leads only to legal defectiveness. In Kant’s theory of law both connections are found. The qualifying connection is conspicuous throughout Kant’s theory of law, whereas the classifying connection, by contrast, is rare and well hidden. This will suffice to consider Kant as a representative of inclusive non-positivism.
The Legislative Authority
Authors: Newhouse M. E.
Published: November 2019

This article develops an account of the nature and limits of the state’s legislative authority that closely attends to the challenge of harmonizing Kant’s ethical and juridical theories. It clarifies some key Kantian concepts and terms, then explains the way in which the state’s three interlocking authorities – legislative, executive, and judicial – are metaphysically distinct and mutually dependent. It describes the emergence of the Kantian state and identifies the preconditions of its authority. Then it offers a metaphysical model of the Kantian state and uses it to argue that the activity of juridical lawgiving is an act of the omnilateral will itself. Legislative authority is limited in the sense that it does not include the capacity to create juridical laws that are conceptually incompatible with the idea of universal external freedom. I argue that my proposed account of the legislative authority is wholly consistent with that authority’s exclusive lawgiving capacity and does not threaten the possibility of ‘distributive justice’ – the legal finality that is the sine qua non of a civil condition.
Political Independence, Territorial Integrity and Private Law Analogies
Authors: Ripstein Arthur
Published: November 2019

Kant deploys analogies from private law in describing relations between states. I explore the relation between these analogies and the broader Kantian idea of the distinctively public nature of a rightful condition, in order to explain why states, understood as public things, stand in horizontal, private legal relations without themselves being private. I use this analysis to explore the international law analogues of the three titles of private right, explaining how territory differs from property, treaty from contract and the specific form of status relations between nations. I conclude with a brief discussion of the ongoing relevance of these horizontal relations.
Not Very Powerful
Authors: Goretzko David , Pargent Florian , Sust Larissa N. N. , Bühner Markus
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Several guidelines on how to construct questionnaire items exist, even though the literature lacks empirical evidence for their effectiveness. To investigate whether the addition of negations and vague quantifiers worsens the psychometric properties of an established questionnaire, 872 participants completed one version of the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) – the German original, a negated version, a version with vague quantifiers or a version with both negations and vague quantifiers. Reliability estimates, item-total correlations, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) model fit, and fit to the Partial Credit Model (PCM) were compared among the four conditions. No PANAS version was clearly superior as no systematic pattern in the psychometric properties was found. Our findings question the general applicability of the guidelines of item construction as well as the effectiveness of widely used statistical analyses assessing the quality of scales. The results should encourage researchers to put a stronger focus on careful item construction as relying on psychometric properties might not be sufficient to develop valid questionnaires.
Perfectionism in a Transdiagnostic Context
Authors: Maricuțoiu Laurențiu P. , Măgurean Silvia , Tulbure Bogdan Tudor
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Despite recent claims that perfectionism is a transdiagnostic process, few studies have directly tested this hypothesis. We investigated the relationship between perfectionism measured by the Almost Perfect Scale-Revised (APS-R) and the Axis I psychopathology (affective and anxiety disorders) using a transdiagnostic approach. Adult participants ( N = 450, 78% females, Mage = 33 years) completed a series of online self-report measures of perfectionism, anxiety, and depression for this cross-sectional study. The results support a linear relationship between the Discrepancy subscale of APS-R and anxiety/affective psychopathology, while a non-linear relationship appeared between the High Standards subscale of APS-R and anxiety/affective psychopathology. Overall, we provided additional evidence for the transdiagnostic nature of perfectionism, as higher levels of perfectionistic concerns appear to be associated with higher number of clinical symptoms in multiple domains. The possible implications of the study are discussed.
Measuring Test Anxiety in Primary and Middle School	Children
Authors: Donolato Enrica , Marci Tatiana , Altoè Gianmarco , Mammarella Irene C.
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The increasing use of tests to assess academic competences has been associated with higher levels of test anxiety (TA) in children, underlining the importance of identifying this emotional problem and sustain academic achievement. This study aimed to contribute to the extant literature on the assessment of TA by examining the psychometric properties of the Test Anxiety Questionnaire for Children (TAQ-C), in primary and middle school children. In Study 1 ( N = 123), we selected 24 items from a wider initial pool, dividing them into scales measuring Thoughts, Autonomic Reactions, Off-Task Behaviors, and Social Derogation, to develop the TAQ-C. In Study 2 ( N = 899), the psychometric properties of this set of scales were assessed in students attending primary and middle school. Analyses supported the bifactor latent structure of the TAQ-C, invariance across educational levels and gender, concurrent and convergent validity, and test–retest reliability. Overall, the TAQ-C is a promising tool for assessing TA in primary and middle school students. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Associations Between Self-Reported Temperament and Self-Knowledge
Authors: Śniecińska Justyna
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Temperament and self-knowledge are both considered important regulators of behavior. Although their areas of influence overlap to some point, little is known about their association. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore if and how they are related to each other, specifically if temperamental dimensions predict self-evaluations in four important domains of self-knowledge. The results showed that temperamental dimensions derived from the regulative theory of temperament were predictors of self-evaluations in all four domains of self-knowledge to a certain degree. Temperament accounted for the greatest amount of variance in self-evaluations of the agency domain, which were positively predicted by briskness and activity, and negatively predicted by emotional reactivity. Both interpersonal attractiveness and social acceptance were positively predicted by briskness, activity, and sensory sensitivity, whereas positive predictors of morality were briskness and sensory sensitivity.
Therapeutic targeting of the E3 ubiquitin ligase SKP2 in T-ALL
Authors: Rodriguez Sonia , Abundis Christina , Boccalatte Francesco , Mehrotra Purvi , Chiang Mark Y. , Yui Mary A. , Wang Lin , Zhang Huajia , Zollman Amy , Bonfim-Silva Ricardo , Kloetgen Andreas , Palmer Joycelynne , Sandusky George , Wunderlich Mark , Kaplan Mark H. , Mulloy James C. , Marcucci Guido , Aifantis Iannis , Cardoso Angelo A. , Carlesso Nadia
Published: November 2019

Timed degradation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1 by the E3 ubiquitin ligase F-box protein SKP2 is critical for T-cell progression into cell cycle, coordinating proliferation and differentiation processes. SKP2 expression is regulated by mitogenic stimuli and by Notch signaling, a key pathway in T-cell development and in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL); however, it is not known whether SKP2 plays a role in the development of T-ALL. Here, we determined that SKP2 function is relevant for T-ALL leukemogenesis, whereas is dispensable for T-cell development. Targeted inhibition of SKP2 by genetic deletion or pharmacological blockade markedly inhibited proliferation of human T-ALL cells in vitro and antagonized disease in vivo in murine and xenograft leukemia models, with little effect on normal tissues. We also demonstrate a novel feed forward feedback loop by which Notch and IL-7 signaling cooperatively converge on SKP2 induction and cell cycle activation. These studies show that the Notch/SKP2/p27Kip1 pathway plays a unique role in T-ALL development and provide a proof-of-concept for the use of SKP2 as a new therapeutic target in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL).