bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Progress on the Alloy‐Based Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries and Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Keming , Liu Chuntai , Mi Liwei , Chou Shulei , Chen Weihua , Shen Changyu
Published: September 2019

High‐energy batteries with low cost are urgently needed in the field of large‐scale energy storage, such as grid systems and renewable energy sources. Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) with alloy‐based anodes provide huge potential due to their earth abundance, high capacity, and suitable working potential, and are recognized as attractive alternatives for next‐generation batteries system. Although some important breakthroughs have been reported, more significant improvements are still required for long lifetime and high energy density. Herein, the latest progress for alloy‐based anodes for SIBs and PIBs is summarized, mainly including Sn, Sb, Ge, Bi, Si, P, and their oxides, sulfides, selenides, and phosphides. Specifically, the material designs for the desired Na+/K+ storage performance, phase transform, ionic/electronic transport kinetics, and specific chemical interactions are discussed. Typical structural features and research strategies of alloy‐based anodes, which are used to facilitate processes in battery development for SIBs and PIBs, are also summarized. The perspective of future research of SIBs and PIBs is outlined.
Chemical Potential-Induced Wall State Transitions in Plant Cell Growth
Authors: Pietruszka Mariusz A.
Published: September 2019

The pH/Tduality of acidic pH and temperature (T) action for the growth of grass shoots was examined in order to derive the phenomenological equation of wall properties for living plants. By considering non-meristematic growth as a dynamic series of state transitions (STs) in the extending primary wall, the critical exponents were identified, which exhibit a singular behaviour at a critical temperature, critical pH and critical chemical potential (μ) in the form of four power laws:$$f_{\pi } \left( \tau \right) \propto \left| \tau \right|^{\beta - 1}$$fπτ∝τβ-1,$$f_{\tau } (\pi ) \propto \left| \pi \right|^{1 - \alpha }$$fτ(π)∝π1-α,$$g_{\mu } (\tau ) \propto \left| \tau \right|^{ - 2 - \alpha + 2\beta }$$gμ(τ)∝τ-2-α+2βand$$g_{\tau } (\mu ) \propto \left| \mu \right|^{2 - \alpha }$$gτ(μ)∝μ2-α. The indicesαandβare constants, whileπandτrepresent a reduced pH and reduced temperature, respectively. The convexity relationα + β ≥ 2 for practical pH-based analysis andβ ≡ 2 “mean-field” value in microscopic (μ) representation were derived. In this scenario, the magnitude that is decisive is the chemical potential of the H+ions, which force subsequent STs and growth. Furthermore, observation that the growth rate is generally proportional to the product of the Euler beta functions ofTand pH, allowed to determine the hidden content of the Lockhart constantФ. It turned out that the pH-dependent time evolution equation explains either the monotonic growth or periodic extension that is usually observed—like the one detected in pollen tubes—in a unified account.
Additional assessment of Acute Cystitis Symptom Score questionnaire for patient-reported outcome measure in female patients with acute uncomplicated cystitis: part II
Authors: Alidjanov J. F. , Naber K. G. , Pilatz A. , Radzhabov A. , Zamuddinov M. , Magyar A. , Tenke P. , Wagenlehner F. M.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Since symptomatic, non-antibiotic therapy has become an alternative approach to treat acute cystitis (AC) in women, suitable patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) are urgently needed. The aim of this part II of a larger non-interventional, case–control study was the additional assessment of the ACSS as a suitable PROM.

Methods

Data from 134 female patients with diagnosed acute uncomplicated cystitis were included in the current analysis with (1) a summary score of “Typical” domain of 6 and more; (2) at least one follow-up evaluation after the baseline visit; (3) no missing values in the ACSS questionnaire data. Six different predefined thresholds based on the scoring of the ACSS items were evaluated to define “clinical cure”, also considering the draft FDA and EMA guidelines.

Results

Of the six different thresholds tested, a summary score of the five typical symptoms of 5 and lower with no symptom more than 1 (mild), without visible blood in urine, with or without including QoL issues was favoured, which partially also could be adapted to the draft FDA and EMA guidelines. The overall patient’s clinical assessment (“Dynamic” domain) alone was not sensitive enough for a suitable PROM.

Conclusions

Scoring of the severity of symptoms is needed not only for diagnosis, but also for PROM to define “clinical cure” of any intervention, which could be combined with QoL issues. Results of the study demonstrated that the ACSS questionnaire has the potential to be used as a suitable PROM and should further be tested in prospective clinical studies.
A study on harvesting of PKL electricity
Authors: Hassan Lovelu , Khan K. A.
Published: September 2019

The efficiency of any electric cell or battery is very important. To keep it in mind it has been studied the columbic efficiency, voltaic efficiency and energy efficiency of a PKL (Pathor Kuchi Leaf) Quasi Voltaic Cell or Modified Voltaic Cell. It was found that the columbic efficiency data illustrated that this efficiency was lower comparing to other efficiencies may be the absence of salt bridge or separator between the electrodes. Because, our designed and fabricated PKL cell does not have any salt bridge. So that the internal resistance is lower than the traditional voltaic cell and as a result more current was found. The voltage and current changes with time and I–V characteristics for PKL unit cell, module, panel and array have also been studied. It is shown that the voltaic and energy efficiency have been studied. However, the highest efficiency was obtained for 40% PKL sap with 5% secondary salt in 55% aqueous solution, which implies that the concentration of PKL juice can play an important role regarding efficiency. It was also found that the average energy efficiency was 97.43% and it was also found that the average voltaic efficiency was 57.29%. Finally, morphological study FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy) has also been performed. It is seen that the results confirmed that Zn was deposited on the Cu surface during the electro deposition process in PKL solution. Using AAS, it has been measured the concentration of [Cu2+] as a reactant ion and the concentration of [Zn2+] as a product ion those have been tabulated and graphically discussed. The variation of pH has also been studied with time and which was also tabulated and graphically discussed.
Developing real-world comparators for clinical trials in chemotherapy-refractory patients with gastric cancer or gastroesophageal junction cancer
Authors: Chau Ian , Le Dung T. , Ott Patrick A. , Korytowsky Beata , Le Hannah , Le T. Kim , Zhang Ying , Sanchez Teresa , Maglinte Gregory A. , Laurie Melissa , Abraham Pranav , Patel Dhiren , Shangguan Tong
Published: September 2019

Background

There are few third-line or later (3L+) treatment options for advanced/metastatic (adv/met) gastric cancer/gastroesophageal junction cancers (GC/GEJC). 3L+ Nivolumab demonstrated encouraging results in Asian patients in the ATTRACTION-2 study compared with placebo (12-month survival, 26% vs 11%), and in Western patients in the single-arm CheckMate 032 study (12-month survival, 44%). This analysis aimed to establish comparator cohorts of US patients receiving routine care in real-world (RW) clinical practice.

Methods

A 2-step matching process generated RW cohorts from Flatiron Health’s oncology database (January 1, 2011–April 30, 2017), for comparison with each trial: (1) clinical trial eligibility criteria were applied; (2) patients were frequency-matched with trial arms for baseline variables significantly associated with survival. Median overall survival (OS) was calculated by Kaplan–Meier analysis from last treatment until death.

Results

Of 742 adv/met GC/GEJC patients with at least 2 prior lines of therapy, matching generated 90 US RW ATTRACTION-2-matched patients (median OS: 3.5 months) versus 163 ATTRACTION-2 placebo patients (median OS: 4.1 months), and 100 US RW CheckMate 032-matched patients (median OS: 2.9 months) versus 42 CheckMate 032 nivolumab-treated patients (median OS: 8.5 months). Baseline characteristics were generally similar between clinical trial arms and RW-matched cohorts.

Conclusions

We successfully developed RW cohorts for comparison with data from clinical trials, with comparable baseline characteristics. Survival in US patients receiving RW care was similar to that seen in Asian patients receiving placebo in ATTRACTION-2; survival with nivolumab in CheckMate 032 appeared favorable compared with US RW clinical practice.
Renal status in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Takamatsu Kazunaga
Published: September 2019

Background

In Japan, there has been a remarkable increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes in elderly patients. This study aimed to clarify the renal status in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.

Participants and methods

There were 978 patients with type 2 diabetes who were classified into three groups: Group 1 (aged < 65 years of age), Group 2 (65–74 years of age), and Group 3 (≥ 75 years of age). Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin level were measured. Moreover, the frequencies of each stage of chronic kidney disease for each group were determined, and differences among the three groups were analyzed.

Results

The mean eGFR in Group 3 was 63.2 ± 19.1 mL/min/1.73 m2, which was lower than those in Group 1 (83.3 ± 22.8 mL/min/1.73 m2) and Group 2 (72.0 ± 19.4 mL/min/1.73 m2). The percentage of low eGFR (< 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) with normo- and microalbuminuria in Group 3 was 31.9%, which was higher than the percentages observed in Group 1 (7.1%) or Group 2 (16.1%). Diabetic macroangiopathy was frequently observed in these patients. The frequency of low eGFR with proteinuria was 10.2%. In this group, diabetic micro- and macroangiopathies were frequently noted.

Conclusion

In elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, renal dysfunction is characterized by low eGFR with normo- and microalbuminuria. In this group, macroangiopathy was more common than microangiopathy. The elderly patients with diabetes with low eGFR with proteinuria frequently had micro- and macroangiopathies.
Two worlds apart? Export demand shocks and domestic sales
Authors: Erbahar Aksel
Published: September 2019

This paper, using a rich dataset on Turkish firms for the 2005–2014 period, analyzes the relationship between firm-product sales in different markets to identify the channels that link exports and domestic sales. First, I use an instrumental variables strategy and establish that an exogenous 10% rise in exports increases a firm’s domestic sales by 2.6% on average. Second, I do an analogous exercise at the firm-product level, and find coefficients that are almost twice as large, hinting to the importance of product-specific scale effects. Moreover, I propose a novel approach to isolate the production versus non-production factors that influence firm dynamics by focusing on non-produced (or carry-along trade, CAT) exports. I find that CAT exports also affect domestic sales positively, suggesting that spillovers at the firm level such as the easing of liquidity constraints play a role. In the process, I reveal that export demand shocks influence firms’ expansion in terms of employment, wages, and investment. Finally, my quantification exercise indicates that export demand shocks explain about 1.4% of the annual variation in Turkish domestic sales on average. This figure, which shows heterogeneities at the sector level, rises to 4.6% during the Great Recession in 2009, when demand in Turkey’s key export partners collapsed.
Recovery of High-Purity MnO2 from the Acid Leaching Solution of Spent Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Peng Chao , Chang Cong , Wang Zulin , Wilson Benjamin P. , Liu Fupeng , Lundström Mari
Published: September 2019

Hydrometallurgical recycling processes for spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) often produce pregnant leach solutions (PLS) that contain metals like Co, Ni, Mn, Li, Al, etc. Although significant research has focused on the recovery of the most valuable materials (e.g., Co, Ni, Li), the reclamation of Mn from PLS is often neglected. In this study, recovery of Mn via a multi-step process based on solvent extraction with di-2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid, scrubbing, stripping and oxidative Mn precipitation has been undertaken. The results demonstrate that more than 99% of Mn can be successfully recovered as a high-purity MnO2 product (purity > 99.5%) with almost no loss of Co, Ni and Li. In addition, the behavior of other metal elements present in the PLS were also studied in detail. Overall, this study investigates the fundamentals of Mn recovery from the complicated PLS of LIBs waste and outlines industrial process feasibility based on known unit process steps.
Prediction of the sliding type and critical factor of safety in homogeneous finite slopes
Authors: Salmasi Farzin , Pradhan Biswajeet , Nourani Bahram
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the effect of soil material parameters including soil specific weight (γ), cohesion (C), angle of internal friction ($$\emptyset$$∅), and geometric parameter of slope including angle with the horizontal (β) for a constant slope height (H) on factor of safety (Fs) was investigated.Fswas considered in two scenarios: (1) slope with dry condition, and (2) with steady-state saturated condition that comprises water level drawdown circumstances. In addition, the type of slip circle was also investigated. For this purpose, theSLOPE/Wsoftware as a subgroup ofGeo-Studiosoftware was implemented. Results showed that decreasing of water table level and omitting the hydrostatic pressure on the slope consequently would result in safety factor decrement. Comparison of the plane and circular failure surfaces showed that plane failure method produced good results for near-vertical slopes only. Determination of slip type showed that for state (30° < β < 45°), the three types of failure circles (toe, slope or midpoint circle) may occur. For state (45° < β < 60°), two modes of failure may occur: midpoint circle and toe circle. For state (β > 60°), the mode of failure circle is only toe circle. Linear and nonlinear regression equations were obtained for estimation of slope safety factor.
Towards a Theory of Explanations for Human–Robot Collaboration
Authors: Sridharan Mohan , Meadows Ben
Published: September 2019

This paper makes two contributions towards enabling a robot to provide explanatory descriptions of its decisions, the underlying knowledge and beliefs, and the experiences that informed these beliefs. First, we present a theory of explanations comprising (i) claims about representing, reasoning with, and learning domain knowledge to support the construction of explanations; (ii) three fundamental axes to characterize explanations; and (iii) a methodology for constructing these explanations. Second, we describe an architecture for robots that implements this theory and supports scalability to complex domains and explanations. We demonstrate the architecture’s capabilities in the context of a simulated robot (a) moving target objects to desired locations or people; or (b) following recipes to bake biscuits.
Distributions of Human Exposure to Ozone During Commuting Hours in Connecticut Using the Cellular Device Network
Authors: Gilani Owais , Urbanek Simon , Kane Michael J.
Published: September 2019

Epidemiologic studies have established associations between various air pollutants and adverse health outcomes for adults and children. Due to high costs of monitoring air pollutant concentrations for subjects enrolled in a study, statisticians predict exposure concentrations from spatial models that are developed using concentrations monitored at a few sites. In the absence of detailed information on when and where subjects move during the study window, researchers typically assume that the subjects spend their entire day at home, school, or work. This assumption can potentially lead to large exposure assignment bias. In this study, we aim to determine the distribution of the exposure assignment bias for an air pollutant (ozone) when subjects are assumed to be static as compared to accounting for individual mobility. To achieve this goal, we use cell-phone mobility data on approximately 400,000 users in the state of Connecticut, USA during a week in July 2016, in conjunction with an ozone pollution model, and compare individual ozone exposure assuming static versus mobile scenarios. Our results show that exposure models not taking mobility into account often provide poor estimates of individuals commuting into and out of urban areas: the average 8-h maximum difference between these estimates can exceed 80 parts per billion (ppb). However, for most of the population, the difference in exposure assignment between the two models is small, thereby validating many current epidemiologic studies focusing on exposure to ozone.

Supplementary materials accompanying this paper appear online.
Non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae-associated early pregnancy loss: an emerging neonatal and maternal pathogen
Authors: Cevik Muge , Moncayo-Nieto Olga L. , Evans Margaret J.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

There is increasing evidence indicating an association between invasive non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) infection in pregnancy and early pregnancy loss. As the diagnosis relies on microbiological investigation of post-mortem placental and foetal samples, a significant proportion of NTHi-related pregnancy loss remains unrecognised. To better characterise NTHi in septic abortion, we report NTHi cases associated with early pregnancy loss.

Methods

We reviewed all post-mortems at <24 weeks gestation with histologically proven acute chorioamnionitis on placental histology and enrolled cases with at least one matched foetal and placental sample culture positive for NTHi. The study was approved by the NHS Lothian Caldicott Guardian.

Results

In our cohort, invasive NTHi has accounted for 20% of infections associated with early pregnancy loss prior to 24 weeks gestation. All patients were young and healthy pregnant women at < 20 weeks' gestation who presented with abdominal pain, PV bleed /discharge and were septic at the time of presentation. One patient with previous history of miscarriage who presented with cervical incompetence had more severe pathology suggestive of early intrauterine pneumonia.

Conclusion

The burden of invasive NTHi disease in early pregnancy loss is likely to be much larger than currently recognised. NTHi should be considered in pregnant women presenting with abdominal pain and PV bleed/discharge in whom clinical signs of sepsis are present. Active surveillance should be considered in this patient group including septic abortion to capture the true prevalence of this emerging pathogen to inform preventative and therapeutic approaches.
Boosting Sodium Storage of Fe1−xS/MoS2 Composite via Heterointerface Engineering
Authors: Chen Song , Huang Shaozhuan , Hu Junping , Fan Shuang , Shang Yang , Pam Mei Er , Li Xiaoxia , Wang Ye , Xu Tingting , Shi Yumeng , Yang Hui Ying
Published: September 2019

Improving the cycling stability of metal sulfide-based anode materials at high rate is of great significance for advanced sodium ion batteries. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics is a big obstacle for the development of high-performance sodium storage electrodes. Herein, we have rationally engineered the heterointerface by designing the Fe1−xS/MoS2 heterostructure with abundant “ion reservoir” to endow the electrode with excellent cycling stability and rate capability, which is proved by a series of in and ex situ electrochemical investigations. Density functional theory calculations further reveal that the heterointerface greatly decreases sodium ion diffusion barrier and facilitates charge-transfer kinetics. Our present findings not only provide a deep analysis on the correlation between the structure and performance, but also draw inspiration for rational heterointerface engineering toward the next-generation high-performance energy storage devices.
Multidomain intervention and/or omega‐3 in nondemented elderly subjects according to amyloid status
Authors: Delrieu Julien , Payoux Pierre , Carrié Isabelle , Cantet Christelle , Weiner Michael , Vellas Bruno , Andrieu Sandrine
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The Multidomain Alzheimer Preventive Trial (MAPT) assessed the efficacy of omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation, a multidomain intervention (MI), or a combination of both on cognition. Impact according to cerebral amyloid status was evaluated by PET scan.

Methods

Participants were nondemented and had memory complaints, limitation in one instrumental activity of daily living, or slow gait. The primary outcome was a change from baseline in 36 months measured with a cognitive composite Z score.

Results

No effect was observed on cognition in the negative amyloid group (n = 167). In the positive amyloid group (n = 102), we observed a difference of 0.708 and 0.471 in the cognitive composite score between the MI plus omega‐3 fatty acid group, the MI alone group, and the placebo group, respectively.

Discussion

MI alone or in combination with omega‐3 fatty acids was associated with improved primary cognitive outcome in subjects with positive amyloid status.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01513252.
Broad-scale informed consent: A survey of the CTSA landscape
Authors: Chandler Redonna , Brady Kathleen T. , Jerome Rebecca N. , Eder Milton , Rothwell Erin , Brownley Kimberly A. , Harris Paul A.
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Research opportunities associated with the proliferation of the electronic health record (EHR), big data initiatives, and innovative approaches to trial design can present challenges for obtaining and documenting informed consent. Broad-scale informed consent (a term used herein to describe institutional models, rather than the Common Rule’s strict regulatory definition for “broad consent”) may facilitate the use of existing data and samples and speed the pace of research by minimizing barriers to consent. We explored the use of broad-scale informed consent within the Clinical Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program Network.

Methods:

We surveyed CTSA Hubs concerning policies, practices, experiences, and needs within three domains of broad-scale informed consent: (1) participant recontact; (2) biospecimens; and (3) clinical data sharing.

Results:

Of 61 CTSA Hubs surveyed, 37 (61%) indicated ongoing work related to at least 1 domain of broad-scale informed consent; 18 Hubs (30%) reported work in all 3 domains. The EHR predominated as the implementation system across all three domains. Research and IT leadership and the Institutional Review Board were most commonly endorsed as institutional drivers, while systems/technical issues and impact on clinical workflow were the most commonly reported barriers.

Conclusions:

While survey results indicate considerable variability in the implementation of broad-scale informed consent across the CTSA consortium, it is clear that all CTSA Hubs are actively considering policy and process related to these concepts. Next steps cluster within three areas: training and workforce development, streamlined policies and templates, and implementation strategies that facilitate integration into clinical workflow.
Data-driven prediction of unsteady flow over a circular cylinder using deep learning
Authors: Lee Sangseung , You Donghyun
Published: September 2019

Unsteady flow fields over a circular cylinder are used for training and then prediction using four different deep learning networks: generative adversarial networks with and without consideration of conservation laws; and convolutional neural networks with and without consideration of conservation laws. Flow fields at future occasions are predicted based on information on flow fields at previous occasions. Predictions of deep learning networks are made for flow fields at Reynolds numbers that were not used during training. Physical loss functions are proposed to explicitly provide information on conservation of mass and momentum to deep learning networks. An adversarial training is applied to extract features of flow dynamics in an unsupervised manner. Effects of the proposed physical loss functions and adversarial training on predicted results are analysed. Captured and missed flow physics from predictions are also analysed. Predicted flow fields using deep learning networks are in good agreement with flow fields computed by numerical simulations.
THE GAMMA CONSTRUCTION AND ASYMPTOTIC INVARIANTS OF LINE BUNDLES OVER ARBITRARY FIELDS
Authors: MURAYAMA TAKUMI
Published: September 2019

We extend results on asymptotic invariants of line bundles on complex projective varieties to projective varieties over arbitrary fields. To do so over imperfect fields, we prove a scheme-theoretic version of the gamma construction of Hochster and Huneke to reduce to the setting where the ground field is $F$-finite. Our main result uses the gamma construction to extend the ampleness criterion of de Fernex, Küronya, and Lazarsfeld using asymptotic cohomological functions to projective varieties over arbitrary fields, which was previously known only for complex projective varieties. We also extend Nakayama’s description of the restricted base locus to klt or strongly $F$-regular varieties over arbitrary fields.
Bayesian dynamic modeling and monitoring of network flows
Authors: Chen Xi , Banks David , West Mike
Published: September 2019

In the context of a motivating study of dynamic network flow data on a large-scale e-commerce website, we develop Bayesian models for online/sequential analysis for monitoring and adapting to changes reflected in node–node traffic. For large-scale networks, we customize core Bayesian time series analysis methods using dynamic generalized linear models (DGLMs). These are integrated into the context of multivariate networks using the concept of decouple/recouple that was recently introduced in multivariate time series. This method enables flexible dynamic modeling of flows on large-scale networks and exploitation of partial parallelization of analysis while maintaining coherence with an over-arching multivariate dynamic flow model. This approach is anchored in a case study on Internet data, with flows of visitors to a commercial news website defining a long time series of node–node counts on over 56,000 node pairs. Central questions include characterizing inherent stochasticity in traffic patterns, understanding node–node interactions, adapting to dynamic changes in flows and allowing for sensitive monitoring to flag anomalies. The methodology of dynamic network DGLMs applies to many dynamic network flow studies.
Statistical evaluation of spectral methods for anomaly detection in static networks
Authors: Komolafe Tomilayo , Quevedo A. Valeria , Sengupta Srijan , Woodall William H.
Published: September 2019

The topic of anomaly detection in networks has attracted a lot of attention in recent years, especially with the rise of connected devices and social networks. Anomaly detection spans a wide range of applications, from detecting terrorist cells in counter-terrorism efforts to identifying unexpected mutations during ribonucleic acid transcription. Fittingly, numerous algorithmic techniques for anomaly detection have been introduced. However, to date, little work has been done to evaluate these algorithms from a statistical perspective. This work is aimed at addressing this gap in the literature by carrying out statistical evaluation of a suite of popular spectral methods for anomaly detection in networks. Our investigation on the statistical properties of these algorithms reveals several important and critical shortcomings that we make methodological improvements to address. Further, we carry out a performance evaluation of these algorithms using simulated networks and extend the methods from binary to count networks.
Carbohydrate and sodium intake and physical activity interact with genetic risk scores of four genetic variants mainly related to lipid metabolism to modulate metabolic syndrome risk in Korean middle-aged adults
Authors: Zhou Jun-Yu , Song Mi Young , Park Sunmin
Published: September 2019

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The present study explored genetic risk scores (GRS) of genetic variants that influence the MetS and the effect of interactions between GRS and nutrient intake on MetS risk. The genetic variants that influence MetS risk were selected by genome-wide association study after adjusting for age, sex, area of residence and BMI in 8840 middle-aged adults. GRS were calculated by summing the risk alleles of the selected SNP and divided into low (0–1), medium (2–3) and high (4–7) risk groups, and the relationships between the MetS and GRS were determined by logistic regression after adjusting covariates involved in MetS risk. We also analysed the interaction between GRS and lifestyles. Four genetic variants (APOA5_rs651821, EFCAB4B_rs4766165, ZNF259_rs2160669 and APOBEC1_rs10845640) were selected because they increased MetS risk after adjusting for covariates. Individuals with medium-GRS and high-GRS alleles had a higher MetS risk by 1·48- and 2·23-fold, respectively, compared with those with low-GRS after adjusting for covariates. The increase in MetS risk was mainly related to serum TAG and HDL-cholesterol concentrations. The GRS had an interaction with carbohydrate (CHO) and Na intakes and daily physical activities for MetS risk. In conclusion, Asian middle-aged adults with high-GRS alleles were at increased MetS risk mainly due to dyslipidaemia. High daily physical activity (≥1 h moderate activity per d) reduced the MetS risk but a low-CHO diet (<65 % of total energy intake) increased the risk in carriers with high-GRS alleles. Low Na intake (<1·6 g Na intake/4 MJ) did not decrease its risk.
Does Ethnic Inequality Increase State Repression?
Authors: Ye Fangjin , Han Sung Min
Published: September 2019

We argue that economic inequality between ethnic groups increases state repression. We contend that a high level of ethnic inequality fuels distributional conflicts between poor and rich ethnic groups. It also increases the salience of ethnic identity and promotes ethnic mobilization to challenge the status quo. This between-group tension creates collective grievances for ethnic groups, mounts challenges to incumbent governments and increases perceived threats to governments. The greater the perceived threats, the more likely that governments will employ coercive measures. We further argue that the impact of ethnic inequality on state repression is moderated by the level of democracy. Various institutional mechanisms in democracies increase the costs of repression, reducing leaders’ incentives to employ coercive measures, even when facing high levels of ethnic inequality. Evidence from 152 countries between 1992 and 2011 supports our arguments.
The killing ofPosthouderScheerder andJifar Folfolun(The War of the Breasts): Malukan and Dutch narratives of an incident in the VOC's waning days
Authors: Gordon A. Ross , Djonler Sonny A. , Hägerdal Hans
Published: September 2019

The Aru Islands in southeastern Maluku have a long history of economic exchange and colonial relations with the Dutch East India Company (VOC), and later the Dutch colonial state. Aru was fragmented in smaller autonomous settlements, of which those in the east produced valuable items for export, such as pearls and tripang (edible sea cucumber). The article focuses on a spate of anti-colonial revolts in the waning days of the VOC in the 1790s. It centred on the Batuley villages situated on a few small islands on the eastern side. The central incident leading to the resistance was the killing of a Dutch low-ranking officer, Scheerder, an event which has been preserved in local tradition till the present day. A search in the VOC archives confirms several details, but suggests a rationale for the resistance which is partly different from the traditional version, and linked in with larger movements of resistance in Aru and Maluku. The article discusses the significance of the oral traditions, and how a comparison with archival materials can enrich our understanding of Arunese–Dutch relations.
Materiality and Classics: (Re) Turning to the Material
Authors: Canevaro Lilah Grace
Published: September 2019

In this article I review 11 books published since 2010 that bring the ‘material turn’ to classics. Some start from emic ancient perspectives on matter and materiality; others take their cue from current theoretical models such as those of the new materialisms. All offer new insights into our relationship with the material world and consider the material object as active within different paradigms. In reviewing these important volumes together, I question entrenched boundaries: from those between (sub-)disciplines to those between human and non-human agents. I explore the material turn not as an isolated phenomenon, but, first, as a cyclical ‘re’-turn and, second, as an integrated set of ideas incorporating (to name but a few strands) aesthetics, cognitive humanities, embodiment, affect and the senses. The books reviewed range from literary studies to archaeology to art history to material culture to heritage. Taken together, they set new directions for classics, and indeed for our thinking about our place in the world.
The value of procalcitonin in systemic inflammatory response syndrome after open-heart surgery for CHD
Authors: Basitha Kuntum , Sukardi Rubiana , Farida Soenarto Ratna , Wardoyo Suprayitno
Published: September 2019

Bakground:

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which is marked by fever, is a possible complication after open-heart surgery for CHD. The inflammatory response following the use of cardiopulmonary bypass shows similar clinical signs with sepsis. Therefore serial measurements of procalcitonin, an early infection marker, can be helpful to differentiate between sepsis and systemic inflammatory response syndrome.

Objectives:

To evaluate serial levels of procalcitonin in children who underwent open-heart surgery for cyanotic and acyanotic CHD, and identify factors associated with elevated level of procalcitonin.

Methods:

Children and infants who had open-heart surgery and showed fever within 6 hours after surgery were recruited. Procalcitonin levels were serially measured along with leukocyte and platelet count. Other data were also recorded, including diagnosis, age, body weight, axillary temperature, aortic clamp time, bypass time, duration of mechanical ventilation, risk adjustment for congenital heart surgery score-1, and length of stay in Cardiac ICU. The patients were categorised into cyanotic and acyanotic CHD groups.

Results:

High mean of procalcitonin level suggested the presence of bacterial infection. Cyanotic CHD group had significantly higher mean of procalcitonin level compared to acyanotic CHD group in the first two measurements. Both groups had no leukocytosis, though platelet count results were significantly different between the two groups. There was no significant difference of procalcitonin level observed in culture results and adverse outcomes.

Conclusion:

Serial procalcitonin measurement can be helpful to determine the cause of fever. Meanwhile other conventional markers such as leukocyte and platelet should be assessed thoroughly.
Uncovering the language of wine experts
Authors: Croijmans Ilja , Hendrickx Iris , Lefever Els , Majid Asifa , Van Den Bosch Antal
Published: September 2019

Talking about odors and flavors is difficult for most people, yet experts appear to be able to convey critical information about wines in their reviews. This seems to be a contradiction, and wine expert descriptions are frequently received with criticism. Here, we propose a method for probing the language of wine reviews, and thus offer a means to enhance current vocabularies, and as a by-product question the general assumption that wine reviews are gibberish. By means of two different quantitative analyses—support vector machines for classification and Termhood analysis—on a corpus of online wine reviews, we tested whether wine reviews are written in a consistent manner, and thus may be considered informative; and whether reviews feature domain-specific language. First, a classification paradigm was trained on wine reviews from one set of authors for which the color, grape variety, and origin of a wine were known, and subsequently tested on data from a new author. This analysis revealed that, regardless of individual differences in vocabulary preferences, color and grape variety were predicted with high accuracy. Second, using Termhood as a measure of how words are used in wine reviews in a domain-specific manner compared to other genres in English, a list of 146 wine-specific terms was uncovered. These words were compared to existing lists of wine vocabulary that are currently used to train experts. Some overlap was observed, but there were also gaps revealed in the extant lists, suggesting these lists could be improved by our automatic analysis.
Visual versus Verbal Working Memory in Statistically Determined Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: On behalf of the Consortium for Clinical and Epidemiological Neuropsychological Data Analysis (CENDA)
Authors: Emrani Sheina , Wasserman Victor , Matusz Emily , Miller David , Lamar Melissa , Price Catherine C. , Ginsberg Terrie Beth , Au Rhoda , Swenson Rod , Libon David J.
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Previous research in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) suggests that visual episodic memory impairment may emerge before analogous verbal episodic memory impairment. The current study examined working memory (WM) test performance in MCI to assess whether patients present with greater visual versus verbal WM impairment. WM performance was also assessed in relation to hippocampal occupancy (HO), a ratio of hippocampal volume to ventricular dilation adjusted for demographic variables and intracranial volume.

Methods:

Jak et al. (2009) (The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 17, 368–375) and Edmonds, Delano-Wood, Galasko, Salmon, & Bondi (2015) (Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 47(1), 231–242) criteria classify patients into four groups: little to no cognitive impairment (non-MCI); subtle cognitive impairment (SCI); amnestic MCI (aMCI); and a combined mixed/dysexecutive MCI (mixed/dys MCI). WM was assessed using co-normed Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV) Digit Span Backwards and Wechsler Memory Scale-IV (WMS-IV) Symbol Span Z-scores.

Results:

Between-group analyses found worse WMS-IV Symbol Span and WAIS-IV Digit Span Backwards performance for mixed/dys MCI compared to non-MCI patients. Within-group analyses found no differences for non-MCI patients; however, all other groups scored lower on WMS-IV Symbol Span than WAIS-IV Digit Span Backwards. Regression analysis with HO as the dependent variable was statistically significant for WMS-IV Symbol Span performance. WAIS-IV Digit Span Backwards performance failed to reach statistical significance.

Conclusions:

Worse WMS-IV Symbol Span performance was observed in patient groups with measurable neuropsychological impairment and better WMS-IV Symbol Span performance was associated with higher HO ratios. These results suggest that visual WM may be particularly sensitive to emergent illness compared to analogous verbal WM tests.
Disinhibition in Frontotemporal Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Neuropsychological and Behavioural Investigation
Authors: Mariano Luciano I. , O’Callaghan Claire , Guimarães Henrique C. , Gambogi Leandro B. , da Silva Thaís B.L. , Yassuda Mônica S. , Amaral Juliana S. , Caramelli Paulo , Hornberger Michael , Teixeira Antônio L. , de Souza Leonardo C.
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Cognitive tests of inhibitory control show variable results for the differential diagnosis between behavioural variant of Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We compared the diagnostic accuracies of tests of inhibitory control and of a behavioural questionnaire, to distinguish bvFTD from AD.

Methods:

Three groups of participants were enrolled: 27 bvFTD patients, 25 AD patients, and 24 healthy controls. Groups were matched for gender, education, and socio-economic level. Participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment of inhibitory control, including Hayling Test, Stroop, the Five Digits Test (FDT) and the Delay Discounting Task (DDT). Caregivers completed the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale 11th version (BIS-11).

Results:

bvFTD and AD groups showed no difference in the tasks of inhibitory control, while the caregiver questionnaire revealed that bvFTD patients were significantly more impulsive (BIS-11: bvFTD 76.1+9.5, AD 62.9+13, p < .001).

Conclusions:

Neuropsychological tests of inhibitory control failed to distinguish bvFTD from AD. On the contrary, impulsivity caregiver-completed questionnaire provided good distinction between bvFTD and AD. These results highlight the current limits of cognitive measures of inhibitory control for the differential diagnosis between bvFTD and AD, whereas questionnaire information appears more reliable and in line with clinical diagnostics.
Associations of Lipid Levels and Cognition: Findings from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Lamar Melissa , Durazo-Arvizu Ramon A. , Rodriguez Carlos J. , Kaplan Robert C. , Perera Marisa J. , Cai Jianwen , Espinoza Giacinto Rebeca A. , González Hector M. , Daviglus Martha L.
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Hispanics/Latinos in the United States are less aware of their cholesterol levels and have a higher burden of associated adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes than non-Latino whites. Investigations of the associations between cholesterol levels and cognition in this population have often occurred within the context of metabolic syndrome and are limited to select lipids despite the fact that triglycerides (TGs) may be more relevant to the health of Hispanics/Latinos.

Methods:

Baseline data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, collected from 2008 to 2011, was used to investigate the associations of lipid levels (i.e., TG, total cholesterol, TC; low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C and HDL-C) with cognition (i.e., learning, memory, verbal fluency, and digit symbol substitution, DSS), adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results:

In 7413 participants ages 45 to 74 years from Central American, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, and South American backgrounds, separate, fully adjusted linear regression models revealed that TG levels were inversely associated with DSS performance; however, this relationship was no longer significant once additional cardiovascular disease risk factors were added to the model (p= .06). TC and LDL-C levels (separately) were positively associated with learning and verbal fluency regardless of adjustments (p-values < .05). Separate analyses investigating the effect modification by background and sex revealed a particularly robust association between TC levels and DSS performance for Puerto Ricans and Central Americans (albeit in opposite directions) and an inverse relationship between TG levels and DSS performance for women (p-values < .02).

Conclusions:

It is important to consider individual lipid levels and demographic characteristics when investigating associations between cholesterol levels and cognition in Hispanics/Latinos.
Pattern and correlates of public support for public health interventions to reduce the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages
Authors: Bélanger-Gravel Ariane , Desroches Sophie , Janezic Isidora , Paquette Marie-Claude , De Wals Philippe
Published: September 2019

Objective:

To examine the pattern and correlates of public support for twelve public health interventions aimed at reducing sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption.

Design:

Cross-sectional population-based survey. Respondents were recruited using a random digit dialling procedure (landline telephone) and a random selection of telephone numbers (mobile telephone). Sampling quotas were applied for age, and the sample was stratified according to administrative regions.

Setting:

The province of Québec, Canada.

Subjects:

One thousand adults aged between 18 and 64 years and able to answer the survey questionnaire in French or English.

Results:

Support was observed for a number of public health interventions, but the more intrusive approaches were less supported. Support for taxation as well as for sale and access restriction was positively associated with the perceived relevance of the government intervention, perceived effectiveness, and perceived associations between SSB consumption and chronic diseases. Believing that SSB consumption is a personal choice and daily consumption were generally negatively associated with strong support and positively associated with strong opposition. Sparse associations between sociodemographic and socio-economic characteristics were observed, with the exception of sex and age: women were generally more likely to support the examined public health strategies, while younger respondents were less likely to express support.

Conclusions:

Increasing perceived effectiveness and government responsibility for addressing the issue of SSB consumption could lead to increased support for SSB interventions. Increasing the belief that SSB consumption could be associated with chronic diseases would increase support, but SSB consumers and younger individuals are expected to be resistant.
Double burden of underweight and overweight among women of reproductive age in Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Raaj Kishore , Rahman Nusma , Khanam Rasheda , Baqui Abdullah H , Ahmed Saifuddin
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Bangladesh, like many emerging economies of South-East Asia, has started to experience a double burden of continuing high rates of undernutrition and increasing rates of overweight and obesity. A lack of assessment of the nutritional shift leaves a gap in current policies: the growing overweight and obesity is yet to be addressed. The present paper investigates the change in nutritional status, particularly the shift in BMI, of Bangladeshi women of reproductive age (15–49 years) and characterizes the vulnerable households for both underweight and overweight status during a period of 10 years (2004–2014).

Design:

Generalized linear mixed-effect models were fitted for both urban and rural residents to assess underweight and overweight status.

Setting:

Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys.

Participants:

Women aged 15–49 years (n 53 077).

Results:

The proportion of overweight increased during 2004–2014 from 10·7 to 25·1 % and the proportion of underweight decreased from 32·6 to 18·2 %. Prevalence of underweight status remained high in rural areas and prevalence of overweight increased rapidly in both rural and urban areas, creating a double burden. The significant contributors to this double burden were the change in women’s level of education, increased household wealth, divisional location and rapid urbanization.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate that specific cohort- or area-based intervention policy studies in line with the UN Decade of Action on Nutrition are required to address the nutritional double burden in Bangladesh.