bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P529: Altered Gut Microbiota in Obesity and Cardiometabolic Traits: Results From the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang Tao , Usyk Mykhaylo , Vazquez-Baeza Yoshiki , Isasi Carmen R , Williams-nguyen Jessica S , Hua Simin , McDonald Daniel , Thyagarajan Bharat , DAVIGLUS Martha L , Cai Jianwen , North Kari E , Knight Rob , Burk Robert , Qi Qibin , Kaplan Robert
Published: March 2020

Introduction:
The relationship between gut microbiome and human obesity is not fully elucidated. Most evidence is from animal models or small case-control studies. Data in population-based cohort are limited.

Hypothesis:
We hypothesized that some specific bacterial taxonomy are associated with host obesity, some of them may also associated with obesity-related cardiometabolic traits.

Methods:
This study included 2759 participants from the HCHS/SOL. Fecal samples were analyzed by shotgun metagenomics sequencing, with the SHOGUN pipeline for bacterial taxonomic identification. Multivariate linear regression models were used to examine associations of bacterial genera with multiple obesity and cardiometabolic traits.

Results:
Of 87 predominant genera (average relative abundance >0.01%), 43 were significantly associated with BMI after multiple testing correction (
Fig 1
). These included some known obesity-associated taxa (e.g.,
Acidaminococcus
,
Dorea etc.)
, some taxa with controversial results in human and animal studies (e.g,
Methanobrevibacter
), and some novel links with obesity (e.g,
Cloacibacillus)
. Among these 43 BMI-associated genera, 18 were associated with waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and 15 were associated with body fat percentage (BF%) but not with fat free mass (FFM). Several obesity-related genera were associated with multiple cardiometabolic traits. For instance,
Dorea
, a glutamate metabolism related genus, was associated with higher levels of BMI, WHR, BF%, dystopic blood pressure, fasting glucose, fasting insulin and HOMA-IR.
Cloacibacillus
showed inverse associations with BMI, BF%, triglyceride, fasting insulin and HOMA-IR, and positive association with HDL.
Methanobrevibacter
, a methane producer which related to human energy harvest , was associated with lower levels of BMI, BF%, triglyceride and HOMA-IR(all p <0.05).

Conclusion:
This study in a large US Hispanic/Latino cohort identified multiple gut microbial genera associated with human obesity and related cardiometabolic traits.
Abstract P531: Immigrants Prioritize Language Over Geography When Accessing Health Care
Authors: Russo Rienna , Kwon Simona , Tsui Jennifer , Yi Stella S
Published: March 2020

Introduction:
Nationally, New York City (NYC) has one of the largest immigrant populations and highest gentrification rates. Satellite ethnic enclaves are increasingly prevalent as residents relocate to more affordable neighborhoods. Ethnic immigrant communities already face unique challenges to accessing health care, including linguistic and cultural discordance regarding health-related beliefs and norms. Residence outside of ethnic enclaves may further hinder health care utilization, as culturally appropriate services may become less accessible. Characterization of immigrants visiting doctors’ offices within and outside of ethnic enclaves may inform efforts to retain these populations in care.

Hypothesis:
We compared immigrants accessing health care within major ethnic enclaves to immigrants accessing care elsewhere to ascertain differences in 1) demographic characteristics; 2) reasons for choosing health care facilities; and 3) distances traveled for health care.

Methods:
Data were from the 2018 Examining Norms and Behaviors Linked to Eating (ENABLE) Pilot Study. Chinese American participants were recruited using venue-based and snowball sampling methods, with assistance from NYC community-based organizations. Surveys included detailed questions on demographics and health-related factors. Participants were included in the analysis if doctor’s office and home zip code data were available (n=143). Data were analyzed using RStudio v.1.2.5 and STATA v.15.0.

Results:
The majority of participants saw a Chinatown-based doctor (64%; 92 of 143); and were not Chinatown residents (81%; 116 of 143). A greater number of individuals who saw Chinatown-based doctor had less than a college education; were living with food insecurity; were on public insurance; and were less acculturated. Individuals accessing care in Chinatown prioritized doctor’s offices where doctors and medical staff spoke their language more so than individuals accessing care elsewhere. Overall, people who saw a Chinatown-based doctor traveled significantly further (β=1.51 miles [approximately 15 minutes via subway]; 95% CI 0.25, 2.77). Of people who saw a Chinatown-based doctor, 75% (69 of 92) were not Chinatown residents. On average, these individuals traveled 5.14 miles (SD=3.38) to the doctor.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, there is a need to expand in-language services for immigrant communities. Immigrants visiting doctors in ethnic enclaves are demographically different and travel further distances for health care. Accessing in language services is a priority for these individuals. Immigrants may prioritize language access over geographic access when choosing their health care providers. Strategies to strengthen community-clinical linkages, including connecting community members with bilingual community health workers, may increase healthcare access of under-served, ethnic populations.
Abstract P537: Reduced Cardiovascular Regenerative Capacity is Associated With Enhanced Inflammatory Response to Acute Psychological Stress
Authors: Almuwaqqat Zakaria , Kim Jeong Hwan , Hammadah Muhammad , Islam Shabatun , Lima Bruno B , Hesaroieh Iraj , Mokhtari Ali , LEVANTSEVYCH OLEKSIY , Ejaz Kiran , Shah Amit J , Bremner J Douglas , Waller Edmund , Vaccarino Viola , QUYYUMI Arshed A
Published: March 2020

Background:
Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells (PCs) are involved in vascular regeneration and correlate with vascular function and cumulative cardiovascular risk. Systemic inflammation is associated with increased mobilization and differentiation of circulating PCs (CPCs) which may ultimately lead to exhaustion of vascular regenerative capacity. Individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) exhibit a pro-inflammatory response to a mental stress challenge that has been associated with an elevated risk of adverse outcomes. We sought to determine whether subjects with reduced numbers of circulating PCs (CPCs) are at higher risk of a pro-inflammatory response to acute mental stress.

Methods:
500 outpatients with stable CAD were enrolled into the Mental Stress Ischemia Prognosis study and underwent a laboratory-based mental stress protocol. Mononuclear cells expressing CD45med, CD34 and CXCR4 epitopes, known to be enriched for hematopoietic PCs, were enumerated using flow cytometry. Interleukin-6 (IL6) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels were measured before and after mental stress. Baseline and changes in IL6 levels were compared across CPC tertiles using linear regression after adjusting for patient characteristics.

Results:
Mean age was 63± 9 years, 77% male, 70% white. Median CD34+ CPC count was 1.64 (1.02-2.43 cells/μL. CPC levels were not associated with either the baseline IL6 level (Beta= 0.071 95%CI, -0.091, 0.23) or CRP levels (Beta, 0.60, 95%CI, -0.25, 0.44). However, independent of demographics, CAD risk factors and baseline IL6 levels, lower CD34+/CXCR4+ CPC counts were associated with a higher inflammatory response during mental stress, measured as a rise in IL6 level (Beta= -0.11, 95%CI, -0.20, -0.028).

Conclusions:
Patients with reduced CPC levels have a greater pro-inflammatory response to mental stress. Thus, the observed higher risk in subjects with impaired regenerative capacity might be at least partly due to a higher stress-related pro-inflammatory response.
Abstract P539: The Association Between Social Isolation and Metabolic Syndrome in Japanese Adults: The Tohoku Medical Megabank Project
Authors: Kotozaki Yuka , Tanno Kozo , Otsuka Kotaro , Sasaki Ryouhei , Takanashi Nobuyuki , Mikami Takahiro , Nakamura Tomohiro , Hozawa Atsushi , Asahi Koichi , Satoh Mamoru , Shimizu Atsushi , Ishigaki Yasushi , Sakata Kiyomi , Sasaki Makoto
Published: March 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components are well established as risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). On the other hand, it has also been reported that social isolation is associated with an increased risk of CVD. However, the relationship between social isolation and MetS and its components is not clear. Thus, the purpose of this study is to investigate the association between social isolation and the number of MetS components in Japanese adults. Participants were 28,917 individuals (male/female = 10,226/18,691, age = 59.9±11.6 years) from the Iwate area of the Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization Community-based cohort study (TMM CommCohort study). They had no history of coronary heart disease or stroke. Social isolation was assessed using the Lubben Social Network Scale-6 (LSNS-6). The participants were classified into two groups, the social isolation group and the non-isolation group, based on a cutoff point of 11/12 on the LSNS-6. An assessment of MetS used the criteria defined by the Japanese societies’ committee. The multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) [AORs (95% CIs)] of the social isolation group versus the non-isolation group were calculated using ordered logistic analyses and compared to the number of MetS components. We used gender, age, education, current smoker, current alcohol drinker, total physical activity, current job status, and depression as covariates. AORs (95% CIs) of social isolation against non-isolation were 1.02 (0.95-1.09) for one component of MetS, 1.09 (1.01-1.19) for two components of MetS, and 1.16 (1.06-1.28) for three or more components of MetS, when compared to 0 component of MetS. In conclusion, Japanese adults who experience social isolation might have a greater number of MetS components.
Abstract P553: The Association of Social Engagement With Cardiovascular Disease Risk Depends on the Risk Horizon: Comparing 10-year, 30-year and Lifetime Risk Estimates
Authors: Barger Steven D
Published: March 2020

Introduction:
Social engagement, or the extent to which people enact social ties in real life, is inversely associated with survival. However, less is known about how persons with low vs. high levels of social engagement differ across intermediate health pathways such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. CVD risk comparisons that examine both short and long-term risk are particularly important because age is heavily weighted in short term CVD risk estimates whereas it is absent from lifetime risk estimates. Comparing across CVD risk epochs (10-year, 30-year and lifetime) more clearly partitions the influence of nonmodifiable (age) versus modifiable (blood pressure; lipids, etc.) disease risk elements with respect to social relationship resources.

Hypothesis:
Are risk differences for low vs. high social engagement consistent across three CVD risk definitions?

Methods:
Data are from adults free of baseline CVD who participated in in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Six activities comprised the social engagement score: talking on the phone with family, friends or neighbors; getting together with friends or relatives; visiting neighbors; attending church or religious services; belonging to a club or group; attendance at club or group activities. Participation was scored as present/absent; the 0 and 1 categories were combined. CVD risk was assessed using 1) the pooled cohort equations for 10-year risk (ages 40-79; N = 7195); 2) Framingham 30-year hard CVD risk (ages 20-59; N = 10,626); and 3) lifetime risk using established modifiable risk factors but excluding age (ages 20-79; N = 19,320). As per previous literature the latter was collapsed into low (< 39%) and high (>= 39%) lifetime risk.

Results:
Among the youngest age group common to all three risk estimates (40-49 years old) the 10 year risk difference was 2% across the lowest (0/1) versus highest (6) social engagement scores (4.3% vs. 2.3%, respectively), 6.6% for 30-year hard CVD risk (21.3% vs. 14.7%, respectively) and 19.7% (79.8% vs. 60.1%, respectively) for high lifetime risk. Among younger age groups (20-29 years) the social engagement score risk difference was very small for 30-year risk (0.5%; 3.3% vs. 2.8%) but was large (15.9%) for lifetime risk (60.7% vs.44.8%). A large social engagement score difference for lifetime CVD risk (26.3%) was also observed for persons aged 30-39 years (81.2% vs. 54.9%). In contrast, small ten-year (2.6%) and lifetime risk (2.9%) differences across low vs. high social engagement were observed among persons aged 70-79.

Conclusions:
CVD risk differences across high and low social engagement are smaller when using age-dependent risk estimates but are substantially larger when comparing lifetime risk, which is not age-dependent. Low social engagement is a marker of substantial modifiable lifetime CVD risk for persons under age 50.
Cardiac Biomarkers and Subsequent Risk of Hospitalization With Bleeding in the Community: Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study
Authors: Mathews Lena , Ishigami Junichi , Ding Ning , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Kucharska‐Newton Anna , Ballantyne Christie M. , Gottesman Rebecca , Selvin Elizabeth , Matsushita Kunihiro
Published: March 2020

Background

hs‐
cTnT
(high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T), but not
NT
‐pro
BNP
(N‐terminal pro–B natriuretic peptide), has been shown to predict bleeding in patients with atrial fibrillation. Whether these biomarkers are independently associated with bleeding in the general population is unknown.

Methods and Results

We used Cox proportional hazards models to examine the association of hs‐
cTnT
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
with incident bleeding (defined by
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision
[
ICD‐9
] codes) among 9550 middle‐aged men and women without a history of cardiovascular disease or bleeding. There were 847 hospitalizations with bleeding (92% from gastrointestinal bleeding) during a median follow‐up of 9.0 years. Serum levels of hs‐
cTnT
were associated with bleeding in a graded fashion, with a hazard ratio of 1.28 (95%
CI
, 1.06–1.59) for 6 to <9 ng/L, 1.52 (1.21–1.91) for 9 to <14, and 2.05 (1.56–2.69) for ≥14 versus <3 ng/L. For
NT
‐pro
BNP
, the highest category (≥264 versus <42 pg/
mL
) showed a hazard ratio of 2.00 (1.59–2.61), and the remaining 3 categories had hazard ratios ranging from 1.2 to 1.3. Individuals in the highest category of both hs‐
cTnT
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
had a hazard ratio of 3.03 (1.97–4.68) compared with those in the lowest categories.

Conclusions

In a community‐based population, elevated hs‐
cTnT
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
were associated with bleeding‐related hospitalizations. These biomarkers may have a high utility in identifying people at high risk for bleeding. There is a need for research on the underlying mechanisms linking subclinical cardiac abnormalities and bleeding.
Prognosis and Reclassification by YKL‐40 in Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Schroder Jakob , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Winkel Per , Hilden Jørgen , Jensen Gorm Boje , Sajadieh Ahmad , Larsson Anders , Ärnlöv Johan , Harutyunyan Marina , Johansen Julia S. , Kjøller Erik , Gluud Christian , Kastrup Jens
Published: March 2020

Background

The inflammatory biomarker YKL‐40 has previously been studied as a potential risk marker in cardiovascular disease. We aimed to assess the prognostic reclassification potential of serum YKL‐40 in patients with stable coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results

The main study population was the placebo group of the CLARICOR (Effect of Clarithromycin on Mortality and Morbidity in Patients With Ischemic Heart Disease) trial. The primary outcome was a composite of acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, cerebrovascular disease, and all‐cause mortality. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusted for C‐reactive protein level and baseline cardiovascular risk factors. Improvement in prediction by adding serum YKL‐40 to the risk factors was calculated using the Cox‐Breslow method and c‐statistic. A total of 2200 patients were randomized to placebo, with a follow‐up duration of 10 years. YKL‐40 was associated with an increased risk of the composite outcome (hazard ratio per unit increase in (YKL‐40) 1.13, 95% CI 1.03–1.24,
P
=0.013) and all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.32, 95% CI 1.17–1.49,
P
<0.0001). Considering whether a composite‐outcome event was more likely to have, or not have, occurred to date, we found 68.4% of such predictions to be correct when based on the standard predictors, and 68.5% when serum YKL‐40 was added as a predictor. Equivalent results were obtained with c‐statistics.

Conclusions

Higher serum YKL‐40 was independently associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes and mortality. Addition of YKL‐40 did not improve risk prediction in patients with stable coronary artery disease.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier: NCT00121550.
Droit et histoire dans la formation diplomatique d’après les écrits sur l’ambassadeur et l’art de négocier (XVIIe-début XVIIIe siècle)
Authors: Fedele Dante
Published: March 2020

La formation diplomatique est une des questions majeures abordées dans les écrits sur l’ambassadeur et l’art de négocier de l’époque moderne. Dès la fin du XVIe siècle, le modèle du « parfait ambassadeur », qui plongeait ses racines dans la culture humaniste, est soumis à une critique serrée visant une redéfinition du statut politique et culturel de l’ambassadeur. Au fil du XVIIe siècle et du début du XVIIIe, on assiste à la formulation de programmes de formation plus spécifiques, centrés sur la connaissance de la documentation diplomatique et de l’histoire moderne, conçue comme une source du ius gentium. Cette réflexion, menée parfois en polémique ouverte avec la mauvaise formation des ambassadeurs, va jouer un rôle important à l’égard de la ‘professionnalisation’ de l’ambassadeur à l’époque moderne.
Sample-Specific Prediction Error Measures in Spectroscopy
Authors: Emil Eskildsen Carl , Næs Tormod
Published: March 2020

In applied spectroscopy, the purpose of multivariate calibration is almost exclusively to relate analyte concentrations and spectroscopic measurements. The multivariate calibration model provides estimates of analyte concentrations based on the spectroscopic measurements. Predictive performance is often evaluated based on a mean squared error. While this average measure can be used in model selection, it is not satisfactory for evaluating the uncertainty of individual predictions. For a calibration, the uncertainties are sample specific. This is especially true for multivariate calibration, where interfering compounds may be present. Consider in-line spectroscopic measurements during a chemical reaction, production, etc. Here, reference values are not necessarily available. Hence, one should know the uncertainty of a given prediction in order to use that prediction for telling the state of the chemical reaction, adjusting the process, etc. In this paper, we discuss the influence of variance and bias on sample-specific prediction errors in multivariate calibration. We compare theoretical formulae with results obtained on experimental data. The results point towards the fact that bias contribution cannot necessarily be neglected when assessing sample-specific prediction ability in practice.
Photoacoustic Spectroscopy of Surface-Functionalized Fe3O4–SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Pawlaczyk Mateusz , Pasieczna-Patkowska Sylwia , Schroeder Grzegorz
Published: March 2020

A permanent development of hybrid materials based on the highly absorptive or opaque materials has prompted a need of analytical tools, which are able to overcome obstacles connected with their physicochemical features. Iron oxide (II, III) (Fe3O4) nanoparticles gained a huge attention as supporters, as they are not only easily accessible using various synthetic approaches, but they also exhibit homogeneity and paramagnetic properties, which make them easily separable materials. Nevertheless, the classic infrared spectroscopic studies might meet several problems with characterization of such systems. Therefore, infrared spectroscopy in photoacoustic mode using Fourier transform infrared–photoacoustic infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR PAS) can be an extremely sensitive and exact analytical tool for investigation of the magnetite-based hybrid material surface. Herein, we present a synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles using co-precipitation method with their subsequent encapsulation within silica matrix decorated with different silanes containing various terminal functional groups. The proper syntheses of core/shell structures were confirmed using the FT-IR PAS method. Each spectrum exhibited specific bands corresponding to vibrations of magnetite particles, silica lattice, and particular surface functional groups, which strictly indicated successful grafting of silanes onto Fe3O4 surface.
Infections in Children With Nephrotic Syndrome: Twenty Years of Experience
Authors: Lebel Asaf , Kropach Nesia , Ashkenazi-Hoffnung Liat , Huber-Yaron Adi , Davidovits Miriam
Published: March 2020

Infections is a common complication of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Our objective was to evaluate the frequency and risk factors for serious bacterial infections (SBI) in febrile children with NS. We reviewed 239 admissions of 107 children with NS who were admitted with fever to a tertiary hospital in Israel, during 1995 to 2016. SBI was diagnosed in 35 admissions (14.6%), most commonly with pneumonia (n = 12), bacteremia/sepsis (n = 8), and urinary tract infection (n = 6). Patients with SBI were more likely to be female (60.0% vs 36.3%, P = .008) and have nephrotic-range proteinuria (71.4% vs 43.6%, P = .010) and edema (62.9% vs 27.0%, P < .001) on admission. No differences were found between the SBI and non-SBI groups in the clinical and histopathological type of NS, immunosuppressive treatment, rate of pneumococcal vaccination, and prophylactic antibiotics. In summary, 1 of 7 children had SBI, most commonly pneumonia, bacteremia/sepsis, and urinary tract infection. Active nephrosis was associated with an increased risk for SBI.
Examining the Effects of a Tier 2 Reading Comprehension Intervention Aligned to Tier 1 Instruction for Fourth-Grade Struggling Readers
Authors: Stevens Elizabeth A. , Vaughn Sharon , Swanson Elizabeth , Scammacca Nancy
Published: March 2020

This article presents findings from a quasiexperimental study examining the effects of a Tier 2 intervention aligned to Tier 1 instruction, a nonaligned Tier 2 intervention, and a business-as-usual (BAU) comparison on the content knowledge, vocabulary, and reading outcomes of fourth-grade struggling readers. In the aligned condition, teachers were trained to provide content-area reading practices during social studies, and struggling readers from these classes received small-group intervention aligned to those practices, allowing for additional practice opportunities with feedback. Struggling readers in the nonaligned condition received the same small-group intervention, though they were not provided the comprehension practices during their Tier 1 social studies instruction. Students in the BAU received typical social studies instruction and typical intervention. Results yielded statistically significant, positive effects in favor of the aligned condition on proximal measures of content knowledge and vocabulary but no significant differences on standardized measures of reading comprehension and vocabulary.
Extracellular Vesicles of Stem Cells to Prevent BRONJ
Authors: Watanabe J. , Sakai K. , Urata Y. , Toyama N. , Nakamichi E. , Hibi H.
Published: March 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), several tens to hundreds of nanometers in size, are vesicles secreted by cells for intercellular communication. EVs released from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-EVs) have the potential to treat multiple diseases. This study aimed to determine the effects of MSC-EVs on bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), whose pathogenesis and treatment are not yet established. To this end, zoledronic acid (ZOL) was administered to bone marrow cells and fibroblasts in vitro. In vivo, a BRONJ model was produced by administering ZOL to rats and extracting teeth. Each MSC-EV-treated and nontreated group was compared histologically and molecularly. In vitro, the nontreated group showed an increased number of β-galactosidase-positive cells and expression of senescence-associated genes p21, pRB and senescence-related inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, MSC-EV administration decreased the number of senescent cells and expression levels of p21, pRB and inflammatory cytokines. In vivo, in the nontreated group, the socket was partially uncovered by the oral epithelium, leaving an exposed bone. Conversely, in the MSC-EV-treated group, the socket was healed. Besides, in the nontreated group, β-galactosidase-positive cells existed in the socket and colocalized with the CD90 and periostin-positive cells. However, there were few β-galactosidase-positive cells in the MSC-EV-treated group. Furthermore, gene expression of stem cell markers Bmi1 and Hmga2 and the vascular endothelial marker VEGF was significantly increased in the MSC-EV-treated group, compared with that in the nontreated group. These results indicate that MSC-EVs prevent ZOL-induced senescence in stem cells, osteoblasts, and fibroblasts and reduce inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, administration of MSC-EVs prevented senescence of cells involved in wound healing and the spread of chronic inflammation around senescent cells, thereby promoting angiogenesis and bone regeneration and preventing BRONJ.
Gender Representation, Professional Experiences, and Socialization: The Case of City Managers
Authors: Webb Farley Kathryn , Rauhaus Beth , Eskridge Robert
Published: March 2020

Women govern differently and offer a distinct voice in the governing process yet remain significantly underrepresented among city managers and chief administrative officers. Despite decades of work to improve gender parity, women hold just 13% of chief local government positions according to the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA). One reason for this may be that women have different experiences and are socialized differently than men, as suggested by differing motivations, identities, and attitudes. Using a mixed-methods approach, we explore differences in the experiences and socialization of women and men that may contribute to the gender disparity in representation among city managers. Our study yields several significant findings that suggest women are mentored differently, develop different political attitudes over time, and develop confidence differently than their male counterparts. Contrary to prior research, we did not find significant differences in public service motivations by gender or year of service.
How Are Competitive Framing Environments Transformed by Person-to-Person Communication? An Integrated Social Transmission, Content Analysis, and Eye Movement Monitoring Approach
Authors: Coronel Jason C. , Ott Jared M. , Hubner Austin , Sweitzer Matthew D. , Lerner Samuel
Published: March 2020

Person-to-person communication is ubiquitous in everyday life, yet the literature on framing has not examined how the content and number of frames change when transmitted across individuals. In Study 1, we use the serial reproduction paradigm to examine how person-to-person communication and message length influence the number of frames in the information environment. In Study 2, we use eye movement monitoring to examine whether individuals direct greater attention to pro- or counter-attitudinal frames in a competitive framing environment. We find that the process of retelling frames from person to person can transform an environment containing multiple competing frames into an environment with a single frame. This is important given work showing that framing effects in competitive environments are more likely to cancel out. Furthermore, message length and prior attitudes play important roles in determining whether individuals direct attention to, remember, and transmit frames.
Do Judicial Instructions Aid in Distinguishing Between Reliable and Unreliable Jailhouse Informants?
Authors: Wetmore Stacy A. , Neuschatz Jeffrey S. , Fessinger Melanie B. , Bornstein Brian H. , Golding Jonathan M.
Published: March 2020

Jailhouse informants are a leading cause of wrongful convictions. In an attempt to preempt such miscarriages of justice, several states (e.g., Connecticut and California) have mandated that judicial instructions be provided to act as a safeguard against false testimony. This study evaluated the effectiveness of these instructions in helping jurors distinguish between reliable and unreliable jailhouse informants. Participants read a trial transcript that varied instructions (Standard, Connecticut, Enhanced) and informant reliability (reliable, unreliable). The results indicated that the instructions had no effect on verdict decisions. Even though verdicts did not vary, participants rated the unreliable informant as less trustworthy, honest, and interested in justice than the reliable informant. This is consistent with previous findings that indicate that participants are aware of the legal prescriptions given in the instructions, but they do not implement them in making decisions. Therefore, instructions may be an insufficient safeguard.
Jesus as God’s Word(s): Aurality, Epistemology and Embodiment in the Gospel of John
Authors: Forger Deborah
Published: March 2020

The prologue of the Gospel of John famously depicts Jesus as the divine λόγος made flesh. Ancient evidence and insights from sensory analysis support that John also presents Jesus as materializing Israel’s God through the λόγοι he speaks. Because the physical act of speaking creates sound, and sound becomes perceptible to persons through the auditory sense, Jesus’ words render the God of Israel accessible in the somatic realm. John presents the Father as remote and inaccessible, yet suggests that Jesus uniquely shares in his divinity, so Jesus’ speech functions to make the ineffable thoughts of the Father God both heard and thus corporeally known. The materiality of Jesus’ speech underscores an important distinction between the divinity of Jesus and that of his transcendent Father; its corporeal connection to audition also reveals how John presents persons coming to believe in and know God tangibly, and, ultimately, to acquire eternal life.
The Bad Samaritans: The Elijah Motif in Luke 9.51-56
Authors: Otten Jeremy D.
Published: March 2020

The parallel between Jesus and Elijah in the account of the Samaritan village (Lk. 9.51-56; cf. 2 Kgs 1.1-16), though recognized for centuries, has almost always been seen as a negative one. Whether for reasons of typology, eschatology or as a polemic against violent judgment, scholars tend to argue that this passage distances Jesus from the OT prophet. This article examines the passage in light of the Elijah motif running throughout Luke–Acts, which is consistent in creating a positive link between Jesus and Elijah, especially in regard to compassion towards outsiders. In this light, the Lukan narrative presents Jesus’ refusal to summon heavenly fire on the Samaritans as a truly Elijianic act. By contrast, the disciples, though attempting to emulate the Tishbite’s actions, are ironically found to be in every way unlike Elijah.
Experimental study on controlled-release inhibitor foam for restraining spontaneous combustion of coal
Authors: Zhang Xun , Yang Jing , Xie Pengfei , Liu Hao , Deng Qiang , Dai Fengwei
Published: March 2020

A new method is proposed based on temperature-controlled self-reaction to generate and release inhibitors in the form of foam at a specific temperature, which can overcome the disadvantages of short effective time and low efficiency in the inhibition of the spontaneous combustion of coal when inhibitors are released in advance, and greatly increase the action range of inhibitor through foam diffusion. The proposed temperature-controlled foaming system was prepared with hollow spheres as solution carriers, NaHCO3 and acetic acid as basic reactants, reaction-generated CO2 as foaming gas, sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as foaming additives, NaCl, MgCl2 and CaCl2 as additives to enhance inhibition effect, and temperature sensitive paraffin as insulating material to generate and release inhibitor foam. The effects of releasing foam on restraining the spontaneous combustion of coal were studied based on the experimental analysis of the optimum ratio of reactants and additives, hollow sphere parameters, released temperature of the foam and variation rule of CO generated by coal oxidation. The obtained results showed that the released temperature of foam was 59–61°C and the covered area of pulverized coal by inhibitor foam was 12.9–13.9 times higher than when it was directly wetted by inhibitor solution. The total effects of inhibition and inerting were achieved after pulverized coal was wetted with inhibitor foam and the efficiency of restraining the spontaneous combustion of coal reached 88.51–97.06% when temperature was increased to 160°C.
An innovative measure of orthographic processing: Development and initial validation
Authors: Chen Yi-Jui Iva , Wilson Mark , Irey Robin C. , Requa Mary K.
Published: March 2020

Orthographic processing – the ability to perceive, access, differentiate, and manipulate orthographic knowledge – is essential when learning to recognize words. Despite its critical importance in literacy acquisition, the field lacks a tool to assess this essential cognitive ability. The goal of this study was to design a computer-based assessment of orthographic processing and investigate its psychometric properties. The rationale for designing specific items was discussed, methods used to separate orthographic processing from word recognition and spelling ability were presented, and item suitability was examined. Person separation reliability was .91 for this assessment. Validity evidence was gathered and reported.
Additional value of MRI-detected EMVI scoring system in rectal cancer: applicability in predicting synchronous metastasis
Authors: Tripathi Pratik , Guo Weifeng , Rao Shengxiang , Zeng Mengsu , Hu Daoyu
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) has been recommended as an independent prognostic factor for poor overall survival rate in rectal cancer and can be used as a potential biomarker. Early prediction of prevalence of synchronous metastasis can elevate the disease-free survival rate. We aimed to evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–detected EMVI (mrEMVI) scoring system in predicting distant metastasis in T3 rectal cancer.

Methods:

Patients with postoperative histopathologically confirmed T3 rectal cancer without previous treatment from July 2014 to December 2015 were enrolled in this study. Two blinded radiologists evaluated mrEMVI status. mrEMVI was categorized as EMVI-positive or EMVI-negative in T2-weighted images using an mrEMVI scoring system. The results, along with other clinical characteristics (age, sex, tumor location, MRI-detected distance of mesorectal extension, lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, mrEMVI score, and carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA]), were then correlated with synchronous metastases to determine the risk factors using univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results:

Of 180 patients, 38 were confirmed to be mrEMVI-positive, 142 mrEMVI-negative. There were 34 patients with synchronous metastasis, of whom 25 were mrEMVI-positive and 9 were mrEMVI-negative. Three factors were significantly associated with synchronous metastasis: mrEMVI ( p = 0.001; odds ratio = 8.665), histopathologic lymphatic invasion ( p = 0.001; odds ratio = 12.940), and preoperative CEA ( p = 0.026; odds ratio = 4.124). mrEMVI score 4 was more likely for synchronous metastasis ( p = 0.044; odds ratio = 9.429) than mrEMVI score 3 in rectal cancer.

Conclusions:

mrEMVI positivity is an independent risk factor for synchronous distant metastasis in rectal cancer. mrEMVI score 4 is a stronger risk factor for synchronous metastasis than mrEMVI score 3 in rectal cancer.
Does the musical tempo enhance physical performance?
Authors: Aburto-Corona Jorge A , de Paz J A , Moncada-Jiménez José , Montero-Herrera Bryan , Gómez-Miranda Luis M
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the musical tempo on heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and distance run (DR) during a treadmill aerobic test in young male and female adults. Participants ran on the treadmill listening to music at 140 beats per minute (bpm; M140), 120 bpm (M120), or without music (NM). No significant sex differences were found on HR (M140 = 172.6 ± 12.7, M120 = 171.9 ± 11.1, NM = 170.1 ± 12.2 bpm, p = .312), RPE (M140 = 7.5 ± 1.4, M120 = 7.6 ± 1.3, NM = 7.6 ± 1.2, p = .931), or DR (M140 = 4,791.4 ± 2,681.1, M120 = 4,900.0 ± 2,916.9, NM = 4,356.1 ± 2,571.2 m, p = .715). Differences were found in the effect of tempo on HR between condition M140 and NM (172.6 ± 12.7 vs. 170.1 ± 12.2 bpm, p = .044, η2 = 0.32). In conclusion, musical tempo does not affect performance, physiological, or perceptual variables in young adults exercising on a treadmill at a constant speed.
Effects of Awareness Programs on Juvenile Delinquency: A Three-Level Meta-Analysis
Authors: van der Put Claudia E. , Boekhout van Solinge Noelle F. , Stams Geert Jan , Hoeve Machteld , Assink Mark
Published: March 2020

Juvenile awareness programs, such as Scared Straight, remain in use despite the finding that these programs provoke rather than prevent delinquency. The aim of this study was to examine what program components are associated with program effectiveness, which is important for improving these programs. A three-level meta-analysis was conducted. A literature search yielded 13 independent studies ( N = 1,536) from which 88 effect sizes could be extracted. A nonsignificant overall effect was found ( d = 0.10), indicating that juvenile awareness programs have no effect on offending behavior and other outcomes that are related to delinquency. No significant moderator effects were found for program components. The moderator analyses revealed that juvenile awareness programs are effective in reducing antisocial attitudes ( d = 0.46), which has not been meta-analytically studied before. Furthermore, larger effects were found as follow-up length increased. These results show a more nuanced view on the effectiveness of juvenile awareness programs is necessary.
Materials, forensics and feminist geopolitics
Authors: Sharp Jo
Published: March 2020

This article seeks to advance the case for feminist geopolitics that recognises the challenges both to the Enlightenment individual and the discursive turn in geography posed by ‘new materialisms’. I will argue that for a distinctively feminist geopolitics a consideration of the way that representational categories align the material around bodies is vital. After a brief discussion of feminist geopolitical approaches, the article moves on to consider accounts of new materialism and assemblage approaches as they are applied to geopolitics, before moving on to consider what a forensic approach might offer to a materialist feminist geopolitics.
Incidence and Prognostic Significance of the Segond Fracture in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Slagstad Irene , Parkar Anagha P. , Strand Torbjørn , Inderhaug Eivind
Published: March 2020

Background:

The Segond fracture is an avulsion of the anterolateral tibia that can be found in patients with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. It is currently unclear if the Segond fracture needs treatment or if it heals spontaneously and if it is associated with an increased risk of failure after ACL reconstruction.

Purpose:

To identify the incidence and spontaneous healing rate of Segond fractures in a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing ACL reconstruction and to examine the predictive value of the Segond fracture on the risk of undergoing revision surgery.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective review of a cohort undergoing isolated ACL reconstruction between 2002 and 2016 was performed. Radiographs from the time of injury and preoperative radiographs were evaluated for Segond fractures and healed Segond fractures. Descriptive data were extracted from an internal quality database. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate risk of revision surgery and to compare across subgroups of patients.

Results:

A total of 1364 patients were included in the study. The incidence of Segond fractures was 7.4%. In addition, 10.4% of patients displayed signs of healed Segond fractures. In total, 15.2% of patients had either 1 or both findings. The overall healing response of the fracture was 35.6%. Those with Segond fractures were older ( P = .014) and had a shorter interval from injury to surgery ( P = .003) as compared with the rest of the cohort. The incidence of Segond fractures was significantly higher in those injured during downhill skiing as compared with other injury mechanisms ( P = .04). The Segond fracture did not represent an increased risk of undergoing revision when compared with the control group (not significant).

Conclusion:

The incidence of conventional Segond fractures in patients with ACL injury was found to be in accordance with former studies. Accounting for the high incidence of healed Segond fractures, a much higher incidence (15%) was seen. Although the spontaneous healing rate from initial radiographs to preoperative imaging was only 36%, the presence of Segond fractures did not represent a higher risk of undergoing revision surgery.
Numerical study of fire resistance of stainless steel circular hollow section columns
Authors: Arrais Flávio , Lopes Nuno , Real Paulo Vila
Published: March 2020

Stainless steel has countless desirable characteristics for a structural material. Although initially more expensive than conventional carbon steel, stainless steel structures can be competitive due to their smaller need for fire protection material and lower life-cycle cost, thus contributing to a more sustainable construction. The most common stainless steel groups used in structural applications are the austenitic, ferritic and austenitic–ferritic (also known as Duplex grades). This work presents a numerical study on the behaviour of stainless steel circular hollow section members under axial compression at elevated temperatures, with different cross-section slenderness. The numerically obtained ultimate load-bearing capacities are compared with simplified calculation formulae from Eurocode 3 for columns under fire situation. A parametric study, considering different stainless steel grades from the aforementioned groups, cross-sectional classes and slendernesses, is here presented for different elevated temperatures. The numerical analyses were performed with the finite element programme SAFIR, with material and geometric non-linear analysis considering imperfections.

Comparisons between the numerical results and the Eurocode 3 rules demonstrated that a specific design approach must be developed for stainless steel columns under fire situation.
Soot production modelling for operational computational fluid dynamics fire simulations
Authors: Mariño Oscar , Muñoz Felipe , Jahn Wolfram
Published: March 2020

With the aim of minimising the losses produced by fire accidents, fire engineering applies physics and engineering principles to preserve the integrity of people, environment and infrastructure. Fire modelling is complex due to the interaction between chemistry, heat transfer and fluid dynamics. Commercially available simulation tools necessarily simplify this complexity, excluding less fundamental processes, such as soot production. By not including this compound in the simulations, the interactions of radiation heat transfer, fire propagation and toxicity must be approximated based on input parameters that are often not well defined. In this work, two semi-empirical soot models are incorporated in the fire dynamics simulator. The models are compared against experimental data. For the operational viability in large-scale scenarios, a correction factor for the local variables is proposed as a function of the cell size, achieving good agreement with experimental data in terms of the amount of soot generated.
Utility of the advocacy coalition framework in a regional budget crisis
Authors: Wiley Kimberly , Searing Elizabeth AM , Young Sarah
Published: March 2020

The advocacy coalition framework predicts that externally controlled events, such as jurisdictional shifts, can open venues for policy change within a policy subsystem. Advocacy coalitions may opt to look outside of their traditional decision-making venue for a more suitable venue. Yet, how and when coalitions use their political resources during this venue shift is unclear. We examine how coalitions leverage policy venues and resources when their traditional strategies are found unproductive. We empirically test how advocacy coalitions engage their political resources during an exogenous shock. Using semi-structured interviews with eight individual coalition leaders representing an estimated 1100 individual charities, this study distils whether and how coalition resources and venue shifts are used by subsystem actors. Three main strategies emerge, and we find that some resources are employed in a unique way during the policy implementation crisis, as opposed to how they are used during their original policy advocacy. Finally, we propose further refinement of the advocacy coalition framework to accommodate points of crisis on the complex road from policy advocacy to implementation. From this study, coalitions can learn how to leverage their resources and navigate to an effective decision-making venue to ensure that external crises do not lead to policy failure.
The effect of inlet distortion on low bypass ratio turbofan engines
Authors: Verma Vishwas , Singh Gursharanjit , Pradeep AM
Published: March 2020

Inlet flow non-uniformity, commonly known as inflow distortion, has been a long-standing problem in the history of gas turbine engines. Distortion can be present in the form of total pressure, total temperature or inflow incidence or any combinations of these. The search for better and robust performance requires engines that can sustain a large amount of inlet distortion without considerable loss in the thrust. In the present paper, the effect of total pressure distortion on a single-stage compressor and low bypass ratio fans are studied. Distortion near hub and tip in the form of step radial total pressure profiles is imposed at far upstream of the rotor leading edge. A systematic approach to qualitatively predict the performance maps in the presence of these distortions is discussed. Further, two extents of total pressure distortion are explored for constant inlet distortion intensity. Hub distortion is found to increase the stability margin, whereas tip distortion reduces it. On extending the distortion extent, hub distortion drastically reduces the stability margin, whereas a comparatively lower reduction in stability margin with tip distortion is observed. The critical distortion limit is observed by varying the inlet distortion extent. Also, it is found that downstream ducts in the bypass axial fan do not interact with the upstream fan. This can be exploited to perform independent simulations of the core engine from low bypass ratio fans. Hub distortion is found to drastically affect the duct performance owing to the presence of thicker upstream inlet boundary layer.