bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel MBD5 mutation in an intellectually disabled adult female patient with epilepsy: Suggestive of early onset dementia?
Authors: Verhoeven Willem , Egger Jos , Kipp Janneke , Verheul‐ aan de Wiel Jiska , Ockeloen Charlotte , Kleefstra Tjitske , Pfundt Rolph
Published: July 2019

Background

The minimal critical region in 2q23.1 deletion syndrome comprises one gene only, that is, the methyl‐CpG‐binding domain protein 5 (MBD5) gene. Since the phenotypes of patients with deletions, duplications or pathogenic variants of MBD5 show considerable overlap, the term MBD5‐associated neurodevelopmental disorder (MAND) was proposed. These syndromes are characterized by intellectual disability, seizures of any kind and symptoms from the autism spectrum. In a very limited number of patients, MAND may be associated with regression starting either at early infancy or at midlife.

Methods

The present paper describes a severely intellectually disabled autistic female with therapy resistant complex partial epilepsy starting at her 16the with gradual cognitive and behavioral regression towards her sixth decade.

Results

Cognitive and behavioral regression occurred towards the patient's sixth decade. Exome sequencing disclosed a novel heterozygous pathogenic frameshift mutation of MBD5 that was considered to be causative for the combination of intellectual disability, treatment‐resistant epilepsy and autism.

Conclusion

The presented patient is the second with a pathogenic MBD5 mutation in whom the course of disease is suggestive of early onset dementia starting in her fifth decade. These findings stress the importance of exome sequencing, also in elderly intellectually disabled patients, particularly in those with autism.
A multichannel optic fiber sensing system based on hybrid Sagnac structure
Authors: Ye Zi , Li Churui , Wang Chao
Published: July 2019

We proposed a multichannel optic fiber sensing system based on hybrid Sagnac structure to convert phase changes of light transmitting in optic fiber caused by vibrations to be detected into intensity changes of interference signals. By using the differential demodulation method, the originally applied vibration signal can be retrieved for further signal analysis. The auxiliary modulation method was introduced into this system so that even tiny vibration signals less than one period can also be detected precisely since all the original signals would be carried by the high frequency and large modulation signals. In the signal retrieve algorithm, we also added a response smoothing transform algorithm to improve the smoothness of the system's frequency response. Besides, in association with wavelength division multiplexer, this sensing system can realize multipoints' vibration detection. By designing the spatial arrangement of sensing fiber array according to application scenarios, this system can realize monitoring and positioning vibration sources with appropriate algorithms.
Coherence transfer delay optimisation in PSYCOSY experiments
Authors: Kenwright Alan M. , Aguilar Juan A. , Koley Seth Banabithi , Kuprov Ilya
Published: July 2019

PSYCOSY is an f1 broadband homonuclear decoupled version of the COSY nuclear magnetic resonance pulse sequence. Here, we investigate by a combination of experimental measurements, spatially distributed spin dynamics simulations, and analytical predictions the coherence evolution delay necessary in PSYCOSY experiments to ensure intensity discrimination in favour of the correlations typically arising from short range (nJ, n ≤ 3) 1H–1H couplings and show that, in general, a coherence evolution delay of around 35 ms is optimum.
Structural softening, mesh dependence, and regularisation in non‐associated plastic flow
Authors: Sabet Sepideh Alizadeh , de Borst René
Published: July 2019

A severe dependence of numerical simulations on the mesh density is usually attributed to the presence of strain softening in the constitutive relation. However, other material instabilities, like non‐associated plastic flow, can also cause mesh sensitivity. Indeed, loss of ellipticity in quasi‐static analyses is the fundamental cause of the observed mesh dependence. It has been known since long that non‐associated plastic flow can cause loss of ellipticity, but the consequence for mesh sensitivity, and subsequently, for the difficulty of the equilibrium‐finding iterative procedure to converge have remained largely unnoticed. We first demonstrate at the hand of a biaxial test structural softening and a marked mesh dependence for an ideally plastic material equipped with a non‐associated flow rule. The phenomena are then analysed in depth using an infinitely long shear layer. Finally, it is shown that the mesh effect disappears when the standard continuum model is replaced by a Cosserat continuum, a well‐known regularisation method for strain‐softening constitutive relations.
Women's and Men's Work: The Production and Marketing of Fresh Food and Export Crops in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Curry George N. , Koczberski Gina , Inu Susan May
Published: July 2019

Fresh food markets have been a fixture of the social and economic landscape of urban and rural PNG since colonial times. They were often the first points of engagement with the market economy, especially for women, who as small‐scale producers, sold surplus produce from their food gardens located on communally‐owned land. Although local food markets have remained an important livelihood for women, the later adoption and expansion of perennial export cash crops like coffee and cocoa overshadowed food production for local markets as men dominated export crop production on land alienated from communal ownership for decades or permanently. New forms of social relations of production and more exclusive forms of land tenure emerged to accommodate export crop production that were very different from those governing the production and marketing of fresh food. Market values and a trend towards individualisation of production with less capacity to mobilise labour through reciprocal labour exchange networks have characterised export crop production. With the income benefits captured largely by men, women began redirecting their labour to fresh food production where they were able to exercise more control of production and income while still mobilising labour through indigenous labour exchange arrangements. Attempts by men to appropriate the income of women and sons’ labour in export cropping were greater during flush periods when income levels were high, and they were less likely to attempt to appropriate this income in low crop periods when incomes were lower. However, with the recent emergence of female entrepreneurers earning relatively large sums of money in large‐scale, profit‐driven vegetable production, the moral frameworks governing food production are coming to resemble those governing export crops, and making labour more difficult to mobilise. Despite women being key players in these changes, we argue there is an emerging risk that men will attempt to assert control over this income or move into vegetable production themselves and possibly marginalise women in the process.
Synthesis of siloxane‐containing benzoxazine and its synergistic effect on flame retardancy of polyoxymethylene
Authors: Lu Zhehong , Feng Weili , Kang Xinglong , Wang Junliang , Xu Hao , Wang Yanpeng , Liu Baoying , Fang Xiaomin , Ding Tao
Published: July 2019

A type of trialkoxysilane‐containing naphtholoxazine compound (Naph‐boz) was successfully synthesized and combined with ammonium polyphosphate/melamine (APP/ME) as an intumescent flame retardant (IFR) to improve the flame‐retardant efficiency of polyoxymethylene (POM). The Underwriters Laboratories 94 (UL94) vertical burning test, limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimeter, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectral analysis were used to study the flame‐retardant properties and related mechanism. The results showed that the formulation with 20 wt.% of APP, 6 wt.% of ME, and 4 wt.% of Naph‐boz passed UL94 V‐1 rating, and the LOI value was improved to 40.3%. Compared with pure POM, the IFR with Naph‐boz had greater reduction in peak heat release rate (lower 74.9%) and total heat release (lower 40.2%). SEM images showed that compact and reinforcing charred layer was formed during the POM/IFR/4Naph‐boz samples combustion, which was beneficial at reducing and maintaining low combustion parameters throughout the cone calorimeter test. The synergistic flame‐retardant effect between Naph‐boz and APP/ME was considered as the reason for the improvement in flame retardancy POM. Furthermore, because of the Naph‐boz was conducive to the compatibility between the flame retardants and matrix, the notched Izod impact strength of POM/IFR/4Naph‐boz composite was higher than that of POM/IFR system.
Degradomics in Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Grozdanić Marija , Vidmar Robert , Vizovišek Matej , Fonović Marko
Published: July 2019

The upregulation of protease expression and proteolytic activity is implicated in numerous pathological conditions such as neurodegeneration, cancer, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases, and bone degeneration. During disease progression, various proteases form characteristic patterns of cleaved proteins and peptides, which can affect disease severity and course of progression. It has been shown that qualitative and quantitative monitoring of cleaved protease substrates can provide relevant prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic information. As proteolytic fragments and peptides generated in the affected tissue are commonly translocated to blood, urine, and other proximal fluids, their possible application as biomarkers is the subject of ongoing research. The field of degradomics has been established to enable the global identification of proteolytic events on the organism level, utilizing proteomic approaches and sample preparation techniques that facilitate the detection of proteolytic processing of protease substrates in complex biological samples. In this review, some of the latest developments in degradomic methodologies used for the identification and validation of biologically relevant proteolytic events and their application in the search for clinically relevant biomarker candidates are presented. The current state of degradomics in clinics is discussed and the future perspectives of the field are outlined.
Carnosine exhibits significant antiviral activity against Dengue and Zika virus
Authors: Rothan Hussin A. , Abdulrahman Ammar Yasir , Khazali Ahmad Suhail , Nor Rashid Nurshamimi , Chong Teoh Teow , Yusof Rohana
Published: July 2019

Dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) are flaviviruses transmitted to humans by their common vector, Aedes mosquitoes. DENV infection represents one of the most widely spread mosquito‐borne diseases whereas ZIKV infection occasionally re‐emerged in the past causing outbreaks. Although there have been considerable advances in understanding the pathophysiology of these viruses, no effective vaccines or antiviral drugs are currently available. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral activity of carnosine, an endogenous dipeptide (β‐alanyl‐l‐histidine), against DENV serotype 2 (DENV2) and ZIKV infection in human liver cells (Huh7). Computational studies were performed to predict the potential interactions between carnosine and viral proteins. Biochemical and cell‐based assays were performed to validate the computational results. Mode‐of‐inhibition, plaque reduction, and immunostaining assays were performed to determine the antiviral activity of carnosine. Exogenous carnosine showed minimal cytotoxicity in Huh7 cells and rescued the viability of infected cells with EC50 values of 52.3 and 59.5 μM for DENV2 and ZIKV infection, respectively. Based on the mode‐of‐inhibition assays, carnosine inhibited DENV2 mainly by inhibiting viral genome replication and interfering with virus entry. Carnosine antiviral activity was verified with immunostaining assay where carnosine treatment diminished viral fluorescence signal. In conclusion, carnosine exhibited significant inhibitory effects against DENV2 and ZIKV replication in human liver cells and could be utilized as a lead peptide for the development of effective and safe antiviral agents against DENV and ZIKV.
Integrated vehicle dynamics management for distributed‐drive electric vehicles with active front steering using adaptive neural approaches against unknown nonlinearity
Authors: Huang Wei , Wong Pak Kin
Published: July 2019

This paper proposes a new integrated vehicle dynamics management for enhancing the yaw stability and wheel slip regulation of the distributed‐drive electric vehicle with active front steering. To cope with the unknown nonlinear tire dynamics with uncertain disturbances in integrated control problem of vehicle dynamics, a neuro‐adaptive predictive control is therefore proposed for multiobjective coordination of constrained systems with unknown nonlinearity. Unknown nonlinearity with unmodeled dynamics is modeled using a random projection neural network via adaptive machine learning, where a new adaptation law is designed in premise of Lyapunov stability. Given the computational efficiency, a neurodynamic method is extended to solve the constrained programming problem with unknown nonlinearity. To test the performance of the proposed control method, simulations were conducted using a validated vehicle model. Simulation results show that the proposed neuro‐adaptive predictive controller outperforms the classical model predictive controller in tracking nominal wheel slip ratio, desired vehicle yaw rate and sideslip angle, showing its significance in vehicle yaw stability enhancement and wheels slip regulation.
Fast approximate clearance evaluation for rovers with articulated suspension systems
Authors: Otsu Kyohei , Matheron Guillaume , Ghosh Sourish , Toupet Olivier , Ono Masahiro
Published: July 2019

We present a light‐weight body‐terrain clearance evaluation algorithm for the automated path planning of NASA's Mars 2020 rover. Extraterrestrial path planning is challenging due to the combination of terrain roughness and severe limitation in computational resources. Path planning on cluttered and/or uneven terrains requires repeated safety checks on all the candidate paths at a small interval. Predicting the future rover state requires simulating the vehicle settling on the terrain, which involves an inverse‐kinematics problem with iterative nonlinear optimization under geometric constraints. However, such expensive computation is intractable for slow spacecraft computers, such as RAD750, which is used by the Curiosity Mars rover and upcoming Mars 2020 rover. We propose the approximate clearance evaluation (ACE) algorithm, which obtains conservative bounds on vehicle clearance, attitude, and suspension angles without iterative computation. It obtains those bounds by estimating the lowest and highest heights that each wheel may reach given the underlying terrain, and calculating the worst‐case vehicle configuration associated with those extreme wheel heights. The bounds are guaranteed to be conservative, hence ensuring vehicle safety during autonomous navigation. ACE is planned to be used as part of the new onboard path planner of the Mars 2020 rover. This paper describes the algorithm in detail and validates our claim of conservatism and fast computation through experiments.
Fluxes of nutrients and primary production between the main channel and floodplain backwaters of the Lower Mississippi River—Development of a simulation model
Authors: Ochs Clifford A. , Shields Fletcher Douglas
Published: July 2019

Connection between rivers and their floodplain is critical to the function of fluvial systems; however, there has been little research quantitatively examining the dynamics of this interaction for large, alluvial rivers. Critical questions include the following: What are the rates and mechanisms of materials and energy exchange, and in what ways does the exchange impact ecosystem functioning? To address these questions, we built a simple model of a hypothetical reach of the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) containing a single backwater. The model is based on empirical data obtained from the LMR system. Our primary objectives for the model were to assess potential backwater impacts on river nitrate transport and in subsidizing phytoplankton biomass to the main channel. Simulations run over a 10‐year period suggest that on an annual basis, (a) LMR backwaters remove NO3–N, and it would require a temporal mean of 34,400 ha functioning like the model backwater, or 2.8 times the current area of oxbow lakes, to eliminate 100% of the river flux of NO3–N of our study region; (b) it would require inputs of phytoplankton from a mean of 5,242 ha of sites functioning like the model backwater to produce observed river flux of phytoplankton biomass; and (c) backwater function is sensitive to the controlling elevation in linking channels hence subject to management. Although simple, this model is a useful first step in quantifying the significance of river–backwater connectivity on ecological processes of the LMR system.
Rosin‐derived poly(vinyl chloride) plasticizer: Synthesis, structure, and properties
Authors: Song Fei , Jia Puyou , Xia Haoyu , Zhang Meng , Hu Lihong , Zhou Yonghong
Published: July 2019

In this work, rosin‐based plasticizer was synthesized by Diels–Alder (DA) and esterification. First, the maleopimaric acid (RT) was obtained by DA between the double bond of rosin and maleic anhydride. Then, the carboxyl group and anhydride group of RT was esterified with tetrahydro geraniol to obtain the rosin‐based polyacid esters (RTT) under the catalysis of p‐toluene sulfonic acid. The structure of RT and RTT was detected by FTIR and1H‐NMR. RTT was used as main plasticizer to obtain plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials and compared with DOP. The results showed that RTT improved the thermal stability and reducedTgof PVC film. Plasticized PVC films had excellent mechanical properties with the elastic modulus of −4,793.67 MPa and tensile strength of −111.86 MPa, higher than that of pure PVC and DOP‐6. RTT showed better volatility stability, migration, and solvent extraction in PVC compared to DOP. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:180–186, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mine drainage: Treatment technologies and rare earth elements
Authors: Wei Xinchao , Zhang Shicheng , Shimko Jonathan , Dengler Robert W.
Published: July 2019

The recent research and development on mine drainage published in 2018 was summarized in this annual review. In particular, this review was focused on two main aspects of mine drainage: (a) advances in treatment technologies and (b) rare earth elements in mine drainage and its recovery. The first section covers passive treatment technologies and active treatment options, including physiochemical treatment and biological treatment. The second section includes the characterization of rare earth elements in mine drainage and recovery technologies. Due to the importance of rare earth elements and the growing interest in their recovery from mine drainage, rare earth elements are reported as a separate section for the first time in this review.

Practitioner points

Advances in treatment technologies for mine drainage are reviewed.

Rare earth elements in mine drainage and its recovery are summarized.

Reviewed technologies include passive, active, advanced and novel processes.
Adsorption of bivalent lead ions from an aqueous phase system: Equilibrium, thermodynamic, kinetics, and optimization studies
Authors: Saini Suman , Kumar Rajeev , Chawla Jyoti , Kaur Inderpreet
Published: July 2019

Punica granatum carpellary membrane powder (PGCM) and its surface modified form (MPGCM) with 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4‐DNP) were used as adsorbents for removal of bivalent lead ions from aqueous phase system. Batch mode experiments using various parameters were carried out to assess the adsorption isotherms and dynamics of the process. Langmuir isotherm was well‐fitted model for experimental data. Langmuir adsorption capacity using PGCM and MPGCM at pH of 7 was found to be 169.49 and 196.07 mg/g, respectively. Rate constant and thermodynamic parameters were calculated to evaluate the kinetic model and temperature dependence nature of adsorption. Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize the adsorption process of bivalent lead ions for PGCM and MPGCM using pH (3.0–9.0), initial bivalent lead ions concentration (20–100 mg/L), contact time (20–180 min), and temperature (20–60°C) parameters. The optimum conditions for maximum removal of bivalent lead ions on PGCM were found to be at pH of 6.99, initial bivalent lead ions concentration of 98.95, contact time of 176.05, and temperature of 21.20°C and on MPGCM at pH of 6.51, initial bivalent lead ions concentration of 99.99, contact time of 177.89, and temperature of 20.02°C, respectively.

Practitioner points

Adsorption of bivalent lead from water using Punica granatum carpellary membrane powder and its modified form MPGCM is discussed.

Batch mode experiments using various parameters were carried out to assess the adsorption isotherms and dynamics of the process.

Langmuir adsorption capacity using PGCM and MPGCM at pH of 7 was found to be 169.49 and 196.07 mg/g, respectively.

Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize the adsorption process of bivalent lead ions.
Analytical solution for two equal collinear modified strip saturated cracks in 2‐D semipermeable piezoelectric media
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Sharma Kuldeep , Bhargava R. R.
Published: July 2019

An analytical solution and study is presented for two equal collinear cracks in 2‐D semipermeable piezoelectric media based on modified strip saturation models. The constant saturated condition defined in strip saturation model is modified here by considering the symmetric and polynomial varying saturation conditions. These proposed saturated conditions are multiplicative of saturated electric displacement value and polynomial (constant to cubic order) of a variable defined as ratio of distance of a point on saturated zone length to the extended half‐crack length. Moreover, these are interpolated on the basis of possible saturated values near the crack‐tips and zone tips. To present the analytical study, a problem of two cracks of equal length situated in series is considered in 2‐D arbitrary polarized infinite piezoelectric domain subjected to semipermeable crack‐face and electromechanical loading conditions. Applying the extended Stroh formalism and complex variable approach, these problems are mathematically modeled into non‐homogeneous Riemann Hilbert problems in terms of unknown complex functions representing stress and electric displacement components at any point within the domain. Using Muskhelishvili [1] and Collin's [2] mathematical techniques, these complex functions are obtained from the developed non‐homogeneous Riemann Hilbert problems. Hence, the explicit expressions for saturated zone lengths (inner and outer), crack opening potentials (COPs), crack opening displacements (CODs) and local stress intensity factors (LSIFs) are obtained. Further, the impact of polynomial varying saturated conditions is highlighted on these fracture parameters with respect to inter crack space distance, crack‐face conditions, polarization angle by presenting the numerical applications in infinite 2‐D PZT‐4 media.
Consistent truncation and de Sitter space from gravitational instantons
Authors: Terrisse Robin , Tsimpis Dimitrios
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We construct a four-dimensional consistent truncation to the bosonic part of the universal sector of Calabi-Yau IIA compactification (i.e. the gravity multiplet, one vectormultiplet, and one hypermultiplet) in the presence of background flux and fermionic condensates generated by gravitational instantons. The condensates are controlled by the ratio of the characteristic length of the Calabi-Yau to the string length, and can be finetuned to be dominant in a region of large volume and small string coupling. The consistent truncation admits de Sitter solutions supported by the condensates, subject to certain validity conditions that we discuss.
Naturalness in D-brane inspired models
Authors: De Benedetti Ron , Li Tianjun , Maxin James A. , Nanopoulos Dimitri V.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We examine the naturalness of the D-brane inspired model constructed in flipped SU(5) supplemented with vector-like particles at the TeV scale, dubbed flippons. We find the model can produce a mainly Higgsino-like lightest supersymmetric particle (LSP) and small light stops, as favored by naturalness. In fact, a large trilinear scalar A

t
term at the electroweak (EW) scale creates a large mass splitting between the top squarks, driving the light stop to near degeneracy with an LSP that is almost all Higgsino, with

$$ \Delta M\left({\tilde{t}}_1,{\tilde{\chi}}_1^0\right) $$

Δ
M

t
˜

1

χ
˜

1
0

< 5GeV, evading the LHC constraint on

$$ {\tilde{t}}_1\to c{\tilde{\chi}}_1^0 $$

t
˜

1

→
c

χ
˜

1
0

thus far. Given the smallness of the light stop, generating a 125 GeV light Higgs boson mass is aided by one-loop contributions from the Yukawa couplings between the flippons and Higgs fields. The resulting parameter space satisfying naturalness is rather constrained, thus we assess its viability by means of comparison to the LHC constraint on soft charm jets and direction detection limits on spin-independent cross-sections. Finally, we compute the level of electroweak fine-tuning and uncover a region with Δ
EW

< 30, i.e., fine-tuning better than 3%, regarded as low electroweak fine-tuning. Given the small light stop, the electroweak fine-tuning from only the top squarks is of

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

(1), indicating no fine-tuning from neither the light stop

$$ {\tilde{t}}_1 $$

t
˜

1

nor the heavy stop

$$ {\tilde{t}}_2 $$

t
˜

2

.
Inequity in utilization of health care facilities during childbirth: a community-based survey in post-conflict Northern Uganda
Authors: Mukunya David , Tumwine James K. , Ndeezi Grace , Tumuhamye Josephine , Tongun Justin Bruno , Kizito Samuel , Napyo Agnes , Achora Vincentina , Odongkara Beatrice , Arach Agnes Anna , Nankabirwa Victoria
Published: July 2019

Aim

To assess inequity in utilization of health care facilities during childbirth and factors associated with home births in Lira district, Northern Uganda.

Subjects and methods

In 2016, we surveyed 930 mothers with children under the age of 2 years in Lira district, Northern Uganda. We used multiple correspondence analysis to construct the wealth index in quintiles, based on household assets. The concentration index is the measure of socioeconomic inequality used in this article, which we calculated using the Stata DASP package. We also conducted multivariable logistic regression to assess factors associated with home births.

Results

A third of mothers (n = 308) gave birth from home [33%, 95% confidence interval (CI) (26%–41%)]. Giving birth at a health facility was pro-rich with a concentration index of 0.10 [95% CI (0.05–0.14)]. Upon decomposing the concentration index, the most important determinant of inequity was the mother's residence. Factors associated with home births in multivariable logistic regression included rural residence [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3.1, 95% CI (1.8–5.3)], precipitate labor [AOR 4.18, 95% CI (2.61–6.71)], and labor starting in the evening or at night. Mothers who had previously given birth from home were more likely to give birth at home again [AOR 40.70, 95% CI (18.70–88.61)], whereas mothers who had experienced a complication during a previous birth were less likely to give birth at home [AOR 0.45, 95% CI (0.28–0.95)].

Conclusion

There was inequity in the utilization of health facilities for childbirth. Programs that promote health facility births should prioritize poorer mothers and those in rural areas.
Parceling Cannot Reduce Factor Indeterminacy in Factor Analysis: A Research Note
Authors: Rigdon Edward E. , Becker Jan-Michael , Sarstedt Marko
Published: July 2019

Parceling—using composites of observed variables as indicators for a common factor—strengthens loadings, but reduces the number of indicators. Factor indeterminacy is reduced when there are many observed variables per factor, and when loadings and factor correlations are strong. It is proven that parceling cannot reduce factor indeterminacy. In special cases where the ratio of loading to residual variance is the same for all items included in each parcel, factor indeterminacy is unaffected by parceling. Otherwise, parceling worsens factor indeterminacy. While factor indeterminacy does not affect the parameter estimates, standard errors, or fit indices associated with a factor model, it does create uncertainty, which endangers valid inference.
Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Male Sexual Function: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Xu Jiangnan , Wu Qian , Zhang Yuhui , Pei Changsong
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Obesity is a worldwide public health issue with serious psychological and social impacts. Erectile dysfunction is also a common clinical condition, and obesity is one of its main risk factors.

Objective

The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the effect of bariatric surgery on male sexual function.

Methods

A systematical research was carried out in Medline via PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to March 16, 2019, to identify published articles related to bariatric surgery and male sexual function in men. Two reviewers screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. I2 index was applied to estimate the heterogeneity. All analyses were done using RevMan5.3 and Stata14.

Results

A total of 12 studies involving 420 participants were included. Analysis showed that bariatric surgery significantly reduced body mass index in morbidly obese patients (mean difference [MD] = -13.73; 95% CI -17.23 to -10.22; P < .00001). From 10 studies that reported the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score, bariatric surgery led to a significant increase in IIEF-total score (MD = 8.2; 95% CI = 5.52−10.88; P < .00001), and erectile function score (MD = 3.76; 95% CI = 2.34−5.19; P < .00001), sexual desire (MD = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.55−1.32; P < .00001), sexual intercourse satisfaction (MD = 1.73; 95% CI = 0.43−3.03; P < .01), and total satisfaction (MD = 1.28; 95% CI = 0.56−2.00; P = .0005) were also significantly improved. However, bariatric surgery did not affect orgasm function (MD = 0.26; 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.68; P = .21). Three studies that reported the IIEF-5 score also showed a significant improvement of erectile function (MD = 5.45; 95% CI = 3.38−7.52; P < .00001).

Conclusions

Bariatric surgery could improve the erectile function, sexual desire, sexual intercourse satisfaction, and total satisfaction in morbidly obese men. Due to limited data on body mass index and hormone levels, our meta-analysis had some limitations. More clinical studies are needed to further explore the relationship between bariatric surgery and male sexual function.
The Distribution of Keratometry in a Population Based Study
Authors: Hashemi Hassan , Yekta Abbasali , Shokrollahzadeh Fereshteh , Aghamirsalim Mohammadreza , Ostadimoghaddam Hadi , Hashemi Alireza , Heydarian Samira , Khabazkhoob Mehdi
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

To determine the distribution of keratometry values in a wide age range of 6-90 years.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, samples were selected from two villages in Iran using multi-stage random cluster sampling. After completing optometry and ophthalmic examinations for all cases, corneal imaging was done using Pentacam, and keratometry values were determined.

Results:

Of the 3851 selected people, 3314 people participated in the study, and after applying the exclusion criteria, analyses were done on data from 2672 people. Mean age of the participants was 36.30 ± 18.51 years (from 6 to 90 years). Mean keratometry (mean-K) in flat and steep meridians was 42.98 (42.9-43.06) diopters (D) and 43.98 (43.91-44.07) D, respectively. Average of mean-K was 43.48 (43.41-43.56) D. Mean-K increased linearly up to the age of 70 years, and the cornea became slightly flat afterwards (coefficient = 0.01; P < 0.001). Mean-K was significantly higher in females (P < 0.001). Myopic cases had the highest mean-K (P < 0.001). The correlation of mean-K with age, gender, central corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, pupil diameter, and spherical equivalent was investigated in a multiple regression model. Only older age and female gender showed a statistically significant association with mean-K. Overall, 31.62% (29.14-34.09) of the sample in this study had at least 1.0 D of corneal astigmatism.

Conclusions:

This is one of the few studies worldwide that demonstrates changes in keratometry in a wide age range from childhood to old age. Results indicated that age and gender are variables associated with keratometry.
The evolution of thermoplastic composites: The road to highest lightweight potential in mass production
Authors: Jansen Michel
Published: July 2019

Thermoplastic composites with continuous fibre reinforcements, sometimes also referred to as organosheets, come with excellent weight-specific mechanical properties such as strength and stiffness. Moreover, these materials are tough and allow short cycle times in part production. Also fuelled by the rapid development of Hybrid Moulding (forming & over-injection moulding in one operation), these materials are now starting to replace more traditional materials such as aluminium and steel. But there is still room for further improvement: the new group of neolaminates marketed under the brand name W8SVR from Huesker Synthetic are made completely from thermoplastic UD tapes, and have the potential to further improve the weight/performance ratio of thermoplastic composites, increase surface smoothness and reduce waste, according to Huesker Synthetićs Michel Jansen.
Assessment of the Jury Systems in Asia: A Comparison of Korea and Japan
Authors: LEE Jae-Hyup , WOO Jisuk
Published: July 2019

This article compares the Korean and Japanese jury systems, evaluating the performance of jury trials as reflected in empirical studies in these countries, and identifying some innovative practices in Korean and Japanese systems that can be adopted by other jurisdictions. This comparative study of Korean and Japanese jury systems will also address common problems and investigate different approaches to those problems. At this juncture, numerous existing empirical studies conducted in both countries provide a good framework for comparison. Although jury trials are firmly entrenched within the Korean and Japanese legal systems, there are several common challenges faced by each country that uses lay juries: avoidance of bias, judicial oversight and intervention for reasoned decision-making, importance of rationality in the jury deliberation process, etc. A careful analysis of the Korean and Japanese experiences will provide useful guidance to not only policymakers in Asia but also criminal justice scholars around the world.
Against the Current: Wilder Penfield, the Frontal Lobes and Psychosurgery
Authors: Leblanc Richard
Published: July 2019

Psychosurgery refers to the surgical interruption of the white matter fibres joining the frontal cortex to the remainder of the cortical mantle and to the thalamus, in an attempt to mitigate the manifestations of psychosis. It reached its heyday following World War Two and was abandoned with the introduction of major tranquilisers such as chlorpromazine. Wilder Penfield, unlike most of his contemporaries, had a jaundiced view of psychosurgery. This paper addresses Penfield’s early experience with experimental, penetrating brain trauma and with the surgical resection of frontal, epileptogenic lesions, which explain his antagonism towards psychosurgery.
Researcher perspectives on embedding community stakeholders in T1–T2 research: A potential new model for full-spectrum translational research
Authors: George Sheba , Vassar Stefanie D. , Norris Keith , Coleman Bernice , Gonzalez Cynthia , Ishimori Mariko , Morris D’Ann , Mtume Norma , Shapiro Martin F. , Lucas-Wright Anna , Brown Arleen F.
Published: July 2019

Effective community engagement in T3–T4 research is widespread, however, similar stakeholder involvement is missing in T1–T2 research. As part of an effort to embed community stakeholders in T1–T2 research, an academic community partnered team conducted discussion groups with researchers to assess perspectives on (1) barriers/challenges to including community stakeholders in basic science, (2) skills/training required for stakeholders and researchers, and (3) potential benefits of these activities. Engaging community in basic science research was perceived as challenging but with exciting potential to incorporate “real-life” community health priorities into basic research, resulting in a new full-spectrum translational research model.
On the unsteady behaviour of cavity flow over a two-dimensional wall-mounted fence
Authors: Barbaca Luka , Pearce Bryce W. , Ganesh Harish , Ceccio Steven L. , Brandner Paul A.
Published: July 2019

The topology and unsteady behaviour of ventilated and natural cavity flows over a two-dimensional (2-D) wall-mounted fence are investigated for fixed length cavities with varying free-stream velocity using high-speed and still imaging, X-ray densitometry and dynamic surface pressure measurement in two experimental facilities. Cavities in both ventilated and natural flows were found to have a re-entrant jet closure, but not to exhibit large-scale oscillations, yet the irregular small-scale shedding at the cavity closure. Small-scale cavity break-up was associated with a high-frequency broadband peak in the wall pressure spectra, found to be governed by the overlying turbulent boundary layer characteristics, similar to observations from single-phase flow over a forward-facing step. A low-frequency peak reflecting the oscillations in size of the re-entrant jet region, analogous to ‘flapping’ motion in single-phase flow, was found to be modulated by gravity effects (i.e. a Froude number dependence). Likewise, a significant change in cavity behaviour was observed as the flow underwent transition analogous to the transition from sub- to super-critical regime in open-channel flow. Differences in wake topology were examined using shadowgraphy and proper orthogonal decomposition, from which it was found that the size and number of shed structures increased with an increase in free-stream velocity for the ventilated case, while remaining nominally constant in naturally cavitating flow due to condensation of vaporous structures.
Cultivating organizational compassion in healthcare
Authors: Simpson Ace Volkmann , Farr-Wharton Ben , Reddy Prasuna
Published: July 2019

The compassion of healthcare workers towards patients is widely recognized, but research suggests a dearth of compassion among co-workers. Indeed, workplace bullying and negative employee outcomes are over-represented in the healthcare sector (including burnout and substantial staff turnover). In this paper, we discuss the cultivation of compassion for healthcare workers, using the lens of positive organizational scholarship. Our concern is not only with the individual level compassion (i.e. between employees), we also consider how compassion can be cultivated systemically across healthcare institutions at the organizational level. More specifically, we present a proposed Noticing, Empathising, Assessing and Responding Mechanisms Model of Organizational Compassion as a tool for consciously cultivating workplace compassion in healthcare organizations.
Technical update of barbed pharyngoplasty for retropalatal obstruction in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Babademez M A , Gul F , Kale H , Sancak M
Published: July 2019

Background

Barbed pharyngoplasty aims to reduce lateral retropalatal obstruction by pulling up the soft palate anterolaterally. However, barbed pharyngoplasty can be less efficient in some cases of obstructive sleep apnoea, especially in the presence of an elongated uvula with redundant tissues over it. This paper describes an attempt to overcome this drawback by modifying barbed pharyngoplasty, using a single continuous suture technique.

Methods

Thirty-four patients were assigned to two groups based on the surgical procedure performed. Those with an elongated uvula were treated with modified barbed pharyngoplasty (n = 17); the others were treated with barbed pharyngoplasty (n = 17). Pre- and post-operative quality of life questionnaires, and questionnaires concerning diet, pain and return to activity, were completed. Pre- and post-operative polysomnography was performed as an objective measurement.

Results

There was no significant difference between barbed pharyngoplasty and modified barbed pharyngoplasty in terms of outcomes. However, reductions in the apnoea/hypopnea index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale and snoring visual analogue scale scores were greater in the modified barbed pharyngoplasty group.

Conclusion

Modified barbed pharyngoplasty is a safe and feasible method, and eliminates the need for surgical resection of the redundant soft tissues around the uvula while lifting up the uvula base.
Gender shift in a Norwegian diminutive construction
Authors: Fløgstad Guro Nore , Eiesland Eli Anne
Published: July 2019

In this article, we discuss theei littaconstruction in Norwegian, a construction that involves the use of feminine morphology combined with non-feminine nouns, and expresses evaluation. Through corpus analyses and an online survey, we investigate the form and function of the construction, synchronically and diachronically. We discuss the emergence of theei littaconstruction in the light of a larger restructuring of the Norwegian gender system, possibly allowing for greater flexibility in the assignment of gender. We also describe theei littaconstruction as an example of gender shift, a previously unattested morphological strategy in Norwegian to express evaluative meaning.
The public health importance of scabies in community domiciliary care settings: an exploratory cross-sectional survey of Health Protection Teams in England
Authors: Phipps Emily , Pietzsch Maaike. E. , Cassell Jackie A. , Humphreys Clare
Published: July 2019

Scabies is a contagious skin infection commonly occurring in institutions such as care homes. However, a large proportion of vulnerable people in England receive domiciliary care in the community and their experience of scabies has not been described. We undertook a pragmatic cross-sectional survey of Health Protection Teams (HPTs) in England to determine the burden of scabies related to domiciliary care. Fifteen cases or outbreaks were notified to HPTs between January 2013 and December 2017. Although a relatively uncommon event for individual HPTs, they were complex to manage and required the co-ordination of multiple stakeholders. Diagnosis was often delayed and required several clinical consultations. A lack of guidance led to difficulties establishing stakeholder roles and responsibilities and sources of funding for treatment. The stigmatisation of scabies sometimes affected the quality of care provided to patients, such as use of excessive personal protective equipment. Our study demonstrates that scabies is an issue of public health importance for domiciliary care service providers and users, and research is required to better understand the impacts of the disease and to develop evidence-based guidance. More generally, there is a need for simpler treatment regimens and methods of diagnosing scabies.
Risk factors of exposure toAedes albopictusbites in mainland France using an immunological biomarker
Authors: Poinsignon A. , Boulanger D. , Binetruy F. , Elguero E. , Darriet F. , Gallian P. , De Lamballerie X. , Charrel R. N. , Remoue F.
Published: July 2019

In recent decades, the invasiveAedes albopictusvector has spread across Europe and is responsible for numerous outbreaks of autochthonous arboviral disease. The aim of this study was to identify epidemiological and sociological risk factors related to individual levels of exposure toAedes albopictusbites. A multidisciplinary survey was conducted with volunteer blood donors living in areas either colonised or not byAedes albopictusin mainland France. Individual levels of exposure were evaluated by measuring the IgG level specific toAedes albopictussaliva. The most striking risk factors concerned the localisation and characteristics of the dwelling. Individuals living in areas colonised prior to 2009 or recently colonised (between 2010 and 2012) had higher anti-salivary gland extract IgG levels compared with those who were living in areas not yet colonised byAe. albopictus. The type of dwelling did not seem to impact the level of exposure toAedesbites. People living in apartments had a higher anti-salivary gland extract IgG level than those living in individual houses but the difference was not statistically significant. Interestingly, the presence of air conditioning or window nets was associated with a noticeable reduction in bite intensity.
The trade-offs between macroeconomics, political economy and international relations
Authors: Bordo Michael , James Harold
Published: July 2019

This article explains the problem of adjustment to the challenges of globalization in terms of the logic underpinning four distinct policy constraints, or trilemmas, and their interrelationship, and in particular the disturbances that arise from capital flows. The analysis of a policy trilemma was developed first as a diagnosis of exchange rate problems (the incompatibility of free capital flows with monetary policy autonomy and a fixed exchange rate regime); but the approach can be extended. The second trilemma we describe is the incompatibility between financial stability, capital mobility and national policy choice over exchange rates. The third example extends the analysis to politics, and looks at the strains in reconciling democratic politics with monetary autonomy and capital movements. Finally, we examine the security aspect and look at the interactions of democracy with capital flows and international order. The trilemmas, in short, depict the way that domestic monetary, financial, economic and political systems are interconnected with the international order, or the impossible policy choices at the heart of globalization. Frequently, the trilemmas conjure up countervailing anti-globalization tendencies and trends.
Gender Representation and Strategies for Panel Diversity: Lessons from the APSA Annual Meeting
Authors: Goodman Sara Wallace , Pepinsky Thomas B.
Published: July 2019

Gender representation is a pervasive problem in political science. We draw on evidence from the 2017 and 2018 American Political Science Association (APSA) Annual Meeting programs to discuss diversity and representation in large political science disciplinary conferences. APSA program divisions differ substantially in their gender representation: although some are representative of their organized-section membership, others are not, and some sections are particularly likely to feature “manels.” We present representation data by organized section, with discussions of what representation looks like and identifying different types of representation goals. We conclude by offering guidelines for increasing gender representation, for both future submitters and program chairs.