bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vietnamese Public Health Practices in the Advent of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons for Developing Countries
Authors: Dreisbach Jeconiah Louis
Published: May 2020

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) presents a great challenge to developing countries with limited access to public health measures in grassroots communities. The World Health Organization lauded the Vietnamese government for its proactive and steady investment in health facilities that mitigate the risk of the infectious disease in Vietnam. This short communication presents cases that could benchmark public health policies in developing countries.
Choosing a Lesser Evil: Partisanship, Labor, and Corporate Taxation under Globalization
Authors: Wang Zhiyuan
Published: May 2020

Leftist governments tend to tax corporations heavily. However, they are unable to do so all the time. In this study, I posit that whether leftist governments can enact this preferred tax policy is conditional on the policy environment. When leftist governments are pressured by their economic competitors to reduce labor rights protection, instead of giving in, they choose to cut corporate tax rates, because the former is more politically harmful than the latter, and the latter is equally effective in achieving the policy goal the former is intended to accomplish. Using novel global data on labor rights from 1994 to 2012 and the structural equivalence technique to capture the policy pressure to restrict labor rights, I find robust evidence for the argument. This finding suggests that facing globalized economic competition, leftist governments make strategic compromise by adopting market-oriented policies in issue areas that deviate from their desirable ideological positions but are less costly than simply yielding to the pressure to alter policies in those issue areas that directly hurt their core constituencies.
Results After Percutaneous and Arthroscopically Assisted Osteosynthesis of Calcaneal Fractures
Authors: Grün Wolfram , Molund Marius , Nilsen Fredrik , Stødle Are Haukåen
Published: May 2020

Background:

Operative treatment of calcaneal fractures using the extensile lateral approach is associated with high rates of soft tissue complications. In the past years, there has been a trend toward less invasive surgical approaches. Percutaneous and arthroscopically assisted calcaneal osteosynthesis (PACO) combines the advantages of visualization of the posterior facet of the subtalar joint with a minimally invasive approach.

Methods:

We conducted a follow-up of 25 patients with 26 calcaneal fractures (Sanders II and III), treated with PACO with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The median age was 44 years (range, 21-72) and the follow-up period 15 months (12-33). Our clinical outcomes were the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOxFQ), the Calcaneus Fracture Scoring System (CFSS), the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score, the Short-Form-36 (SF-36), the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and the number of complications. Radiographs on follow-up were obtained to evaluate the reduction of the fractures as well as osteoarthritis of the subtalar joint.

Results:

The median MOxFQ score was 26.6 (0-76.6), the CFSS score 85 (26-100), and the AOFAS score 85 (50-100). The VAS pain score was 0 (0-5.7) at rest and 4.1 (0-8.2) during activity. The Böhler angle improved from a mean (SD) of 3.5 (12.3) degrees preoperatively to 27.7 (10.5) degrees postoperatively. The follow-up radiographs showed subsidence of the fractures and a Böhler angle of 20.3 (12.9) degrees. There were no wound-healing complications. Two patients had additional surgery with screw removal due to prominent hardware.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that PACO gives good clinical outcomes and a low risk of complications in selected calcaneal fractures. Prospective long-term studies will be necessary to better document the potential advantages and limitations of this operating technique.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
The Opioid Epidemic Blunted the Mortality Benefit of Medicaid Expansion
Authors: Yan Brandon W. , Sloan Frank A. , Boscardin W. John , Guo Felicia , Dudley R. Adams
Published: May 2020

Although the Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion reduced uninsurance, less is known about its impact on mortality, especially in the context of the opioid epidemic. We conducted a difference-in-differences study comparing trends in mortality between expansion and nonexpansion states from 2011 to 2016 using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mortality data. We analyzed all-cause deaths, health care amenable deaths, drug overdose deaths, and deaths from causes other than drug overdose among adults aged 20 to 64 years. Medicaid expansion was associated with a 2.7% reduction ( p = .020) in health care amenable mortality, and a 1.9% reduction ( p = .042) in mortality not due to drug overdose. However, the expansion was not associated with any change in all-cause mortality (0.2% reduction, p = .84). In addition, drug overdose deaths rose more sharply in expansion versus nonexpansion states. The absence of all-cause mortality reduction until drug overdose deaths were excluded indicate that the opioid epidemic had a mitigating impact on any potential lives saved by Medicaid expansion.
Experimental failure analysis and mechanical performance evaluation of fiber-metal sandwich laminates interleaved with polyamide-6,6 interlayers through the combined usage of acoustic emission, thermography and microscopy techniques
Authors: Beylergil Bertan , Tabrizi Isa E , Zanjani Jamal SM , Saeidiharzand Shaghayegh , Poudeh Leila H , Yildiz Mehmet
Published: May 2020

Fiber-metal laminates are hybrid sandwich composite structures made of thin metallic sheets and layers of fiber-reinforced plastics. In this study, for the first time, the effects of polyamide 66 nonwoven interlayers on the tensile, three-point bending, interlaminar shear strength, and low velocity impact responses of fiber-metal laminates are investigated by coupling acoustic emission, thermography, and microscopy techniques. The fiber-metal laminates are interleaved with polyamide 66 nonwoven fabrics at two different areal weight density, namely, 17 gsm (grams per square meter) and 50 gsm. The tensile, bending, interlaminar shear strength, and low velocity impact tests are carried out in accordance with the ASTM standards. During the tensile and flexural tests, acoustic emission data are collected to understand damage types occurring under various loading conditions and, in turn, clearly shed light on the performance of polyamide 66 for interfacial strengthening in fiber-metal laminates. The results of acoustic emission investigation are correlated with the optical and scanning electron microscope-based microscopic analysis. It is shown that the interlaminar shear strength of fiber-metal laminates can be increased significantly (about 42%) by using polyamide 66 nonwoven interlayers. The impacted fiber-metal laminate specimens are examined to determine damage area and length using the lock-in thermography method. It is found that the polyamide 66 interlayers decrease the debonded length and damaged area up to 39 and 32%, respectively. The tensile and flexural strength and modulus of the fiber-metal laminate are not significantly affected by the presence of polyamide 66 interlayers, except a negligible drop in the value of tensile and flexural strength by 6 and 4%, respectively. The polyamide 66 interlayers are proved to be very successful in enhancing plastic deformation ability of the matrix and bonding efficiency between aluminum and composite sections.
How to manage catheter-related right atrial thrombosis: Our conservative approach
Authors: Rossi Luigi , Covella Bianca , Libutti Pasquale , Teutonico Annalisa , Casucci Francesco , Lomonte Carlo
Published: May 2020

Background:

Catheter-related right atrial thrombosis is an underestimated, severe, and life-threatening complication of any type of central venous catheters. No clear-cut epidemiological data are available. Catheter-related right atrial thrombosis is often asymptomatic; however, it can lead to serious complications and death.

Case series:

We report seven catheter-related right atrial thrombosis events occurred in five hemodialysis patients; two recurrences following primary treatment are included in the report, all of them managed with a conservative approach without catheter removal. Systemic anticoagulation (vitamin K antagonists), having a well-defined target of International Normalized Ratio of 2.5–3.0, combined with urokinase as a locking solution at the end of each hemodialysis session were the therapeutic strategy used in all patients. After the first month, the anticoagulation target was reduced to an International Normalized Ratio value of 1.5–2.0 and urokinase to a weekly administration. After sixth months, when no thrombus was identified at transthoracic echocardiographic examinations, the treatment was stopped. No bleeding complications were reported.

Conclusion:

The combination therapy here described is safe, quick, and effective, achieving the goal of not removing catheters.
Performance of novel air foil thrust bearings with taper-groove on surface of top foil
Authors: Hu Hongyang , Feng Ming
Published: May 2020

To improve the load capacity of air foil thrust bearing, the micro taper-grooves on the surface of top foil was introduced and studied. A modified Reynolds equation considering the gas rarefaction effect was established, in which the Knudsen number was affected by the film thickness and pressure. A new bump stiffness model was built with the consideration of bump rounding, friction, and bending stiffness of foil. By considering the variation of gas film thickness, the load capacity, friction torque, and power loss of novel bearing with grooves were calculated by the finite difference method. Moreover, the effect law of groove parameters, groove shape and grooves number on the novel bearing performance was studied systematically. The results show that the predicted axial load capacity considering gas rarefaction effect is decreased slightly in smaller clearance and more consistent with the actual test data. The novel air foil thrust bearing with taper-groove can weaken the air end leakage and enhance the local dynamic pressure efficiently in the parallel portion of top foil, thus improving the static characteristics of bearing. For the novel air foil thrust bearing with taper-groove depth of 10 µm, the load capacity can be increased by about 13.33%, compared with traditional bearing. With the increments of taper-groove depth and length on top foil, the load capacity can be increased. However, the friction torque is decreased when there is a longer taper-groove in the circumferential direction. Meanwhile, the optimal groove width ratio is about 0.5, and the structure of multi-grooves is beneficial to the decreased friction torque. The validity of presented theoretical model has been verified by the literature data, and the results are expected to be helpful to bearing designers, researchers, and academicians concerned.
Clinical outcomes in patients who discontinue natalizumab therapy after 2 years in the Tysabri® Observational Program (TOP)
Authors: Butzkueven Helmut , Trojano Maria , Kappos Ludwig , Spelman Tim , Wiendl Heinz , Rosales Karen , Su Ray , Licata Stephanie , Ho Pei-Ran , Campbell Nolan
Published: May 2020

Background:

Natalizumab is a highly efficacious therapy for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Patients who discontinue natalizumab may experience return of MS disease activity.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to analyze predictors of post-natalizumab disease activity return.

Methods:

The Tysabri® Observational Program (TOP) is an ongoing observational study of natalizumab-treated RRMS patients. Patients discontinuing natalizumab are encouraged to remain in TOP.

Results:

Analyses included 3221 TOP patients. After ⩾2 years on natalizumab, relapse risk was twice as high for patients who switched to an oral therapy ( n = 660, hazard ratio (HR) = 2.18, p < 0.001) and three times as high for patients who switched to an injectable therapy ( n = 95, HR = 3.02, p < 0.001) as for those who stayed on natalizumab ( n = 2466). Relapse rates after switching remained below pre-natalizumab rates. In patients who switched to an oral therapy, higher relapse risk was predicted by longer washout time, more pre-natalizumab relapses, higher Expanded Disability Status Scale score at natalizumab initiation, and shorter natalizumab treatment duration.

Conclusion:

Patients who stayed on natalizumab had better clinical outcomes than those who switched to an oral or injectable therapy after ⩾2 years on natalizumab. These results highlight modifiable risk factors for disease activity return (e.g. natalizumab treatment duration and washout duration) to consider when making treatment decisions.
The discussion on the revision of the coordination rules of unemployment benefits – a battlefield between East and West
Authors: Pennings Frans
Published: May 2020

Unemployment benefits are a special type of benefit for coordination purposes since Member States exporting benefits tend to fear that supervision of their benefit recipients in the host State will not be satisfactory. For this reason, several complicated rules have been made, which are disadvantageous for the benefit recipients living in a country with low unemployment benefits who last worked in a country with higher benefits. The rules are also disadvantageous for countries with many outgoing frontier workers. Although the proposal for revising the Regulation includes new rules to address these problems, the large differences in interests between Member States make it difficult to reach a compromise.
Investigation of window-opening behaviour and indoor air quality in dwellings situated in the temperate zone in China
Authors: Deng Tingxuan , Shen Xiong , Cheng Xiaojie , Liu Junjie
Published: May 2020

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a key factor that could affect the indoor environment and people's health. In this study, we report a comprehensive study on IAQ in 30 dwellings in the temperate zone in China. Thirty naturally ventilated dwellings were selected in the urban area of Kunming, which is the largest city in temperate zone in China. In four seasons, short-term measurement of formaldehyde and benzene, toluene, xylenes-volatile organic compounds and air infiltration rate were conducted in these dwellings. A long-term 1-year monitoring of temperature, relative humidity, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon dioxide (CO2), window-opening behaviour and night-time air change rate (ACR) were conducted in 13 of these dwellings by remote sensors. Short-term measurements showed the mean formaldehyde concentration in summer (100.76 μg/m3), benzene concentration in winter (8.46 µg/m3), PM2.5 concentration (80.4 µg/m3) in spring of 2017 exceeded the Chinese standard, the US Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment value and the World Health Organization guidelines. The night-time ACR was the highest in summer (2.1 h−1) and the lowest in winter (1.6 h−1) in bedrooms of 13 long-term monitored dwellings due to seasonal time variation in window opening in bedrooms, which was mainly driven by CO2 concentration, indoor temperature and outdoor PM10 concentration.
Features and form: Appropriating digital storytelling for public ethnography
Authors: Graizbord Diana , McPike Jamie
Published: May 2020

Ethnography may have a unique capacity to capture the attention of non-academic publics, but if it remains tied to conventional publication and dissemination strategies, this capacity will remain unrealized. This article examines the possibilities and challenges of appropriating digital storytelling for public ethnography. To do so, we consider how two key features of digital storytelling platforms—multimodality and multilinearity—can help ethnographers make public ethnography. We show how these features can be used by ethnographers to publicize and politicize ethnographic accounts and translate descriptive and theory-driven ethnography for non-traditional audiences. Making effective use of multimodality and multilinearity has practical and epistemological implications. Appropriating digital storytelling for public ethnography recasts how ethnographers use theory, create and configure ethnographic data, deploy interpretive and evaluative schema, and structure accounts. Though challenging and potentially risky, we contend that if ethnographers want to make a difference, they should experiment with making ethnography differently.
Hypertension is associated with increased mortality and severity of disease in COVID-19 pneumonia: A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression
Authors: Pranata Raymond , Lim Michael Anthonius , Huang Ian , Raharjo Sunu Budhi , Lukito Antonia Anna
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To investigate the association between hypertension and outcome in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia.

Methods:

We performed a systematic literature search from several databases on studies that assess hypertension and outcome in COVID-19. Composite of poor outcome, comprising of mortality, severe COVID-19, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), need for intensive care unit (ICU) care and disease progression were the outcomes of interest.

Results:

A total of 6560 patients were pooled from 30 studies. Hypertension was associated with increased composite poor outcome (risk ratio (RR) 2.11 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.85, 2.40), p < 0.001; I2, 44%) and its sub-group, including mortality (RR 2.21 (1.74, 2.81), p < 0.001; I2, 66%), severe COVID-19 (RR 2.04 (1.69, 2.47), p < 0.001; I2 31%), ARDS (RR 1.64 (1.11, 2.43), p = 0.01; I2,0%, p = 0.35), ICU care (RR 2.11 (1.34, 3.33), p = 0.001; I2 18%, p = 0.30), and disease progression (RR 3.01 (1.51, 5.99), p = 0.002; I2 0%, p = 0.55). Meta-regression analysis showed that gender ( p = 0.013) was a covariate that affects the association. The association was stronger in studies with a percentage of males < 55% compared to ⩾ 55% (RR 2.32 v. RR 1.79).

Conclusion:

Hypertension was associated with increased composite poor outcome, including mortality, severe COVID-19, ARDS, need for ICU care and disease progression in patients with COVID-19.
A rebellious thinker or a cultural icon: Chan master Huineng in theatrical resemiotization
Authors: Yu Hailing
Published: May 2020

Adopting a multimodal social semiotic approach, this study investigates the resemiotization of the story of Huineng in two theatrical performances, the opera Snow in August performed in Taipei in 2002, and the musical theater The Sixth Patriarch Huineng performed in Shanghai in 2007. Although both claim to have been based on the historical record of Huineng, especially the Platform Sutra, significant differences exist. Focusing on the differences, the study investigates: (1) how semiotic resources of language, music and mise-en-scène are adopted to present Huineng in a particular way; and (2) why the semiotic resources are mobilized to present Huineng in such ways. Analysis shows that while Snow in August presents Huineng as a rebellious, independent thinker through episodes concerning Huineng’s innate enlightenment, breaking the alms-bowl and burning the robe, and his decline of the imperial invitation, The Sixth Patriarch Huineng presents Huineng as a cultural icon by emphasizing his reconciliation with former enemy Shenxiu, and the harmonious relationship between Huineng and the other characters. Each performance is contextualized to reveal ways in which resemiotization is socially situated and ideologically positioned.
Conceptual framework for assisted dying for individuals with dementia: Views of experts not opposed in principle
Authors: Dehkhoda Aida , Owens Richard G , Malpas Phillipa J
Published: May 2020

Dementia is one of the prominent conditions for which an aging population has been seeking end-of-life solutions such as assisted dying. Individuals with dementia, however, are often unable to meet the eligibility criteria of being mentally competent and are thus discriminated against in relation to assisted dying laws. Provided that the assisted death directive is being made in sound mind, it is still of concern whether these advance directives can be appropriately framed and safeguarded to protect the wish of these vulnerable individuals while preventing harm. Therefore, to establish consensus views of experts on primary issues of, and concerns about, assisted dying for individuals with dementia as well as exploring tentative conceptual framework to safeguard practice and application, a three-round Delphi study was conducted. A core group of 12 experts from five countries was recruited comprising expertise in domains relevant to assisted dying and dementia. A semantic–thematic approach was applied to analyze the 119 generated statements. Evaluation of these research statements resulted in full consensus of 84 (70%) items. Our primary findings highlight seven core domains: applicability of assisted dying for dementia; ethical, practical, and pathological issues regarding the application of assisted dying; and ethical, legal, and professional recommendations for the ways forward. Despite the issues surrounding the provision of assisted death for individuals with dementia, our findings lead us to cautiously conclude that devising “adequate” safeguards is achievable. The result of this research may benefit future research and practice.
Enriching social work research through architectural multisensory methods: Strategies for connecting the built environment and human experience
Authors: Grittner Alison L , Burns Victoria F
Published: May 2020

Scholars have called for greater emphasis on the physical environment to expand social work research, policy, and practice; however, there has been little focus on the role of the built environment. Redressing this gap in the literature, this methodological paper explicates how four multisensory research methods commonly used in architecture—sketch walks, photography, spatial visualization, and mapping—can be used in social work research to create a greater understanding of the complex, interconnected, and multidimensional nature of built environments in relationship to human experience. The methods explored in this paper provide social work researchers with a methodological conduit to explore the relationship between the built environment and vulnerable populations, understand and advocate for spatial justice, and participate knowledgeably in interdisciplinary policy realms involving the built environment and marginalized populations.
miR-195-5p Suppresses Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion Via FOXK1
Authors: Long Zhiqiang , Wang Yadong
Published: May 2020

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer deaths around the world. Previous studies have shown that microRNAs have pivotal functions in tumorigenesis including lung cancer. It is reported that microRNA-195-5p acts as a tumor suppressor role in human cancers. However, the function and molecular mechanism of microRNA-195-5p in lung cancer progression is still unclear. In the present study, the results showed that the expression of microRNA-195-5p was downregulated both in lung cancer tissues and in lung cancer cell lines. Enhanced expression of microRNA-195-5p inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in lung cancer cells. Furthermore, Forkhead box k1 was identified as the direct target of microRNA-195-5p. Forkhead box k1 overexpression could restore the repressed cell proliferation and metastasis caused by microRNA-195-5p overexpression. Our results demonstrated that a functional mechanism of microRNA-195-5p in regulating lung cancer. It indicates that microRNA-195-5p may regulate lung cancer growth and metastasis through the regulation of Forkhead box k1, highlighting the potential application for the treatment of lung cancer in the future.
Emotional Functioning and Sense of Hope as Contributors to Healthy Aging
Authors: Waldman-Levi Amiya , Bar-Haim Erez Asnat , Katz Noomi , Stancanelli Jeanine M.
Published: May 2020

Cognitive and physical factors affect participation in later life. It is imperative to explore the contribution of emotional factors on older adults’ participation and wellbeing. Seventy-eight older adults were recruited for this cross-sectional study and grouped based on their level of independence. Emotional functioning, hope, cognition, participation, and wellbeing were measured. Analyses of variance, correlational analysis, and prediction models were employed. Significant differences were found between independent and dependent older adults’ participation and wellbeing, F(2, 72) = 12.71, p < .00, η2 = .26. Independent older adults’ participation was predicted by cognition, β = 0.40, and hope, β = 0.58. Wellbeing was predicted by cognition, β = 0.39, emotional status, β = −0.46, and hope, β = 0.36. Dependent older adults’ wellbeing was predicted by emotional status, β = −0.68, and hope, β = 0.32. Occupational therapists play a key role in promoting healthy aging by incorporating psychosocial factors at the individual, community, and societal levels.
Factors Associated With the Role of Parents for the Prevention of Human Papillomavirus in Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Dávila Sandra Paloma Esparza , Benavides-Torres Raquel Alicia , Monsiváis María Guadalupe Moreno , Torres-Obregón Reyna , Champion Jane Dimmitt
Published: May 2020

Background:

The parental role is key for the prevention of human papillomavirus (HPV) in adolescents; however, there are factors that can facilitate or inhibit its performance. For this reason, the purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence the role of parents for prevention of HPV in their adolescent children.

Method:

A descriptive correlational study design included a convenience sample of 582 Mexican parents, whose son or daughter, 13 to 15 years of age, was in either the second or third year of high school. Data analyses included multiple linear regression.

Results:

Factors related to the role of parents included knowledge about HPV ( rs = 0.180, p < .01), perceived risk to contract HPV ( rs = 0.148, p < .01), self-efficacy for sexual communication with adolescents ( rs = 0.507, p < .01), and attitude toward prevention of HPV ( rs = 0.272, p < .01). Self-efficacy for sexual communication with adolescents and attitude toward prevention of HPV positively influenced the parental role, explaining 28.8% of the variance, F(4, 577) = 59.80, p < .001.

Conclusions:

Parents with positive attitudes regarding prevention of HPV and who perceive self-efficacy in communicating sexuality issues with their adolescent children, develop a preventative role.
A Longitudinal, Prospective Study to Evaluate the Effects of Treatment on the Inhibitory Control Function After Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Cao Chenglong , Song Jian , Lin Pan , Yan Deqi , Yao Shun , Yue Jianren , Liu Binbin , Lu Yuzhao , Xu Guozheng
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

Injured cognitive abilities have been reported in patients with pituitary adenoma. However, to date, few researchers have directly investigated the electrophysiological study of inhibitory control function of pituitary patients both pre- and postsurgery. Thus, this study aimed to identify the factors affecting the inhibitory control function of pituitary patients.

Methods:

Thirty presurgery pituitary patients were recruited and 26 patients of them completed the postsurgery follow-up. Thirty healthy people were recruited for control group. Visual Go/Nogo tasks were carried out by the patients and controls to assess the inhibitory control function before surgery and 6 months after the surgery, respectively. The function of inhibitory control was analyzed with the components of N2 and P3.

Results:

Across 3 groups, Nogo stimuli evoked larger frontal-central N2nogo and P3nogo than Go stimuli did. Furthermore, N2d of presurgery patients (−1.14 μV) and postsurgery patients(−0.61 μV) were significantly decreased compared with that of control group (−3.09 μV), F(2, 83) = 13.92, P < .01, whereas no difference was detected between pre- and postsurgery groups. There was no remarkable difference in the amplitude of P3d among the 3 groups, F(2, 83) = 0.19, P > .05. With regard to the amplitude of P3 for Go condition, The P3 amplitude of healthy group (4.38 μV) was larger than both pre- and postsurgery (1.00 μV and 3.01 μV). With regard to the amplitude of P3 for Nogo condition, The P3 amplitude of healthy group (5.25 μV) was larger than both pre- and postsurgery groups (2.35 μV and 4.18 μV).

Conclusions:

These results indicated that presurgery patients showed the dysfunction of inhibition, due to the nerve tissue damage or brain structure alteration caused by the presurgery physical pressure from tumor and abnormal hormone levels. Postsurgery patients showed a tendency toward recovery, but there was no obvious improvement in the inhibitory control function after successful treatments.
Multivariate Statistical Network Monitoring–Sensor: An effective tool for real-time monitoring and anomaly detection in complex networks and systems
Authors: Magán-Carrión Roberto , Camacho José , Maciá-Fernández Gabriel , Ruíz-Zafra Ángel
Published: May 2020

Technology evolves quickly. Low-cost and ready-to-connect devices are designed to provide new services and applications. Smart grids or smart health care systems are some examples of these applications. In this totally connected scenario, some security issues arise due to the large number of devices and communications. In this way, new solutions for monitoring and detecting security events are needed to address new challenges brought about by this scenario, among others, the real-time requirement allowing quick security event detection and, consequently, quick response to attacks. In this sense, Intrusion Detection Systems are widely used though their evaluation often relies on the use of predefined network datasets that limit their application in real environments. In this work, a real-time and ready-to-use tool for monitoring and detecting security events is introduced. The Multivariate Statistical Network Monitoring–Sensor is based on the Multivariate Statistical Network Monitoring methodology and provides an alternative way for evaluating Multivariate Statistical Network Monitoring–based Intrusion Detection System solutions. Experimental results based on the detection of well-known attacks in hierarchical network systems prove the suitability of this tool for complex scenarios, such as those found in smart cities or Internet of Things ecosystems.
Transradial access for diagnostic angiography and interventional neuroradiology procedures: A four-year single-center experience
Authors: Pons Roger Barranco , Caamaño Isabel Rodríguez , Chirife Oscar Sabino , Aja Lucía , Aixut Sonia , de Miquel María Ángeles
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of transradial access for diagnostic angiography and interventional neuroradiology procedures.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of a single-center experience based on 225 patients attended between August 2015 and October 2019, in which transradial access was used for diagnostic angiography and endovascular interventions. Ultrasound-guided access was done at the level of the forearm or anatomical or snuffbox (distal transradial access). Conventional forearm transradial access was done in 179 procedures (right, left and bilateral in 169, 5 and 5, respectively), while distal transradial access was done in 46 cases (41 right and 5 left). Primary outcome measures included successful catheterization, need to change access, or technical complications.

Results

In the group of 131 diagnostic angiographies, the technique success rate was 100% to target the right vertebral artery, 97% for the right internal carotid, 93.5% for the left internal carotid, 82% for the left vertebral artery, and 100% for both common and external carotid arteries. All patients were discharged within 2–4 h after the procedure. A total of 94 interventional procedures were performed, including aneurysms in 39 cases, stroke in 34, and other procedures (carotid stents, arteriovenous malformations, carotid-cavernous fistula) in the remaining 21. The overall technical success in both diagnostic angiographies and interventional procedures was 97.7%. In four cases of diagnostic angiography and in 1 intervention, it was necessary to switch from transradial access to transfemoral access. Three cases of hematoma related to the access site were recorded.

Conclusions

In our experience, transradial access is an alternative approach for diagnostic angiography and neuro-interventions.
Bearing capacity of welded composite T-shaped concrete-filled steel tubular columns under axial compression
Authors: Cao Bing , Zhang Xuyan , Liang Nan , Yang Yizhen , Shen Dekang , Huang Bo , Du Yi-han
Published: May 2020

The axial compressive experiments were carried out on 21 welded composite T-shaped concrete-filled steel tubular columns, and 395 finite element models were established for parameter calculation. The calculating formula of axial compressive bearing capacity of welded composite T-shaped concrete-filled steel tubular columns is established. The results show that three typical failure modes were found: middle buckling, end local buckling, and integral bending. When the slenderness ratio λ exceeds the elastic instability limit λp, the axial stress of steel is lower than yield strength fy, and the axial stress of core concrete is lower than axial compressive strength fc. Increasing the thickness of steel has a more obvious effect on increasing the axial compressive bearing capacity of specimen. The theoretical calculating formula can effectively predict the axial compressive bearing capacity, and the theoretical calculation is partial to safety. The average ratio of axial compressive bearing capacity of the theoretical calculation to the experimental is 0.909, and the standard deviation is 0.075. The average ratio of axial compressive bearing capacity of the finite element calculation to the experimental is 0.957, and the standard deviation is 0.045. The average ratio of axial compressive bearing capacity of the theoretical calculation to the finite element calculation is 0.951, and the standard deviation is 0.039.
From screening to ascertainment of the primary outcome using electronic health records: Challenges in the STRIDE trial
Authors: Esserman Denise
Published: May 2020

Electronic health record data are a rich resource and can be utilized to answer a wealth of research questions. It is important when using electronic health record data in clinical trials that systems be put in place and vetted prior to enrollment to ensure data elements can be collected consistently across all health care systems. It is often overlooked how something conceptualized on paper (e.g. use of the electronic health record in a study) can be difficult to implement in practice. This article discusses some of the challenges in using electronic health records in the conduct of the STRIDE (Strategies to Reduce Injuries and Develop Confidence in Elders) trial, how we handled those challenges, and the lessons we learned for the conduct of future trials looking to employ the electronic health record.
Synthesis, structure, photophysical properties, and energy transfer mechanism of an erbium–mercury compound
Authors: Chen Wen-Tong
Published: May 2020

A hydrothermal reaction leads to the formation of a novel erbium–mercury compound [Er(IA)3(H3O)(H2O)] n(0.5 nHg2I6) (1) (HIA = isonicotinic acid). The compound has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. It is characteristic of a one-dimensional chain-like structure and a two-dimensional supramolecular layer. A solid-state photoluminescence experiment reveals that this compound displays upconversion green photoluminescence. The photoluminescence emission peaks can be attributed to the 4 G11/2 → 4 I15/2, 4 F7/2 → 4 I15/2, and 2 H11/2 → 4 I15/2 of the Er3+ ions. The energy transfer mechanism is consistent with the energy-level diagrams of the erbium ions and isonicotinic acid ligand. This compound possesses Commission Internationale de I'Éclairage chromaticity coordinates of 0.1755 and 0.5213. A solid-state diffuse reflectance measurement reveals that this compound features a narrow optical band gap of 1.97 eV.
Regioselective mono-aza-Michael additions of divinyl ketones with 3-(arylimino)indolin-2-ones: Synthesis of N-enone-functionalized 3-(arylimino)indolin-2-ones
Authors: Chen Xiao , Li Zheng
Published: May 2020

Selective mono-aza-Michael additions of divinyl ketones with 3-(arylimino)indolin-2-ones in the presence of cesium carbonate are described. N-Enone-functionalized 3-(arylimino)indolin-2-ones were efficiently synthesized in satisfactory yield. The salient features of this protocol are high regioselectivity, high yield, and mild conditions.
How to manage KPC infections
Authors: Bassetti Matteo , Peghin Maddalena
Published: May 2020

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae represent an increasing global threat worldwide and Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC-KP) has become one of the most important contemporary pathogens, especially in endemic areas. Risk stratification and rapid diagnostics laboratory workflows are of paramount importance and indication for therapy of KPC-KP infection must be individualized according to the baseline characteristics of the patient and severity of infection. The optimal treatment of infection because of KPC-KP organisms is uncertain and antibiotic options are limited. The knowledge of the patient’s pathophysiology, infection site, and application of the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic principles on the basis of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) has progressively gained major relevance. Combination therapies including high-dose meropenem, colistin, fosfomycin, tigecycline, and aminoglycosides are widely used, with suboptimal results. In the past few years, new antimicrobials targeting KPC-KP have been developed and are now at various stages of clinical research. However, their optimal use should be guaranteed in the long term for delaying, as much as possible, the emergence of resistance. Strict infection control measures remain necessary. The aim of this review is to discuss the challenges in the management and treatment of patients with infections because KPC-KP and provide an expert opinion.
Cobalt-related cardiomyopathy: A real concern! A review of published evidence
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Jahangir Noman , Khan Muhammad Faisal , Saeed Zobia , Sultan Farina , Sultan Ayyaz
Published: May 2020

Background:

Cobalt (Co) toxicity-related cardiomyopathy (CMP) in hip arthroplasty has recently been reported in the literature. The purpose of this review was to identify and assess available published evidence of CMP in hip arthroplasty patients and to derive recommendations for management.

Methods:

We evaluated 23 cases reported till October 2018 and stratified into three categories, based on pre-existing risk factors for CMP, histological confirmation and evidence of systemic signs of Co toxicity.

Results:

Co toxicity was considered to be the definite cause of CMP in 8 cases and probably contributory in 13 cases. Two cases were considered to have developed CMP secondary to pre-existing risk factors. Majority of the patients had good recovery of cardiac function after hip revision and cardiac management, but five cases deteriorated and died.

Conclusion:

Although Co-related CMP has been reported in a small number of cases of hip arthroplasty, a delay or missed diagnosis may lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis, removal of causative implant and avoidance of metal articulations in revision for fractured ceramic implants may help in effective management.
What Constraints Financial Inclusion for the Transgender Community? Field-based Evidences from Odisha (India)
Authors: Barik Rajesh , Sharma Pritee
Published: May 2020

Among all the marginalized and stigmatized communities in Odisha, financial exclusion is high among the transgender community. This study discusses the status, importance and key challenges of financial inclusion among the transgender community of Odisha. This study tries to address the major constraints and challenges of financial inclusion among transgender community people in Odisha. To fulfil the above cited objective, in-depth interviews were conducted with 76 respondents. Additionally, the interviews were also taken from the transgender community’s president and secretary from two regions of Odisha (Cuttack and Bhubaneswar). This study points out that transgender people are deprived from accessing adequate financial products and services from the formal financial institutions. Both demand side and supply side factors are responsible for this exclusion. On the demand side, their low financial literacy and awareness, lack of proper documents to open a bank account, lack of individual interest and lack of formal employment are responsible. On the other hand, supply side factors involve unfriendly behaviour of bank staff and officers, less provision of legal documents from the government, less spread of information, less awareness programmes or financial literacy programmes among the transgender community of Odisha.
Power to the People: In Haryana, Dalits Call for Making Governance Work for the Poor and Marginalized
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev
Published: May 2020

This paper argues for ‘power to the marginalized people’, especially Dalits—who are socially oppressed, politically marginalized and economically exploited. It further lends voice to Dalit activists, who are raising the issues of making governance work for the poor and calling for economic growth that is imbibed with equity and social justice. Their emergence, fight for equality, resistance to caste-based oppression, the sexual onslaught against Dalit women and atrocities in various parts of Haryana, etc., are strong expressions of Dalit assertion. And, indeed, all this signals the rise of an educated class of Dalits demanding development with dignity, a legitimate right rather than just a charity or fulfilment of a Constitutional obligation owed by the Government.
Towards Green and Low-Carbon Development in Chinese Cities
Authors: Chen Meian , Yang Li , Hu Min , Montero Diego
Published: May 2020

This article presents an indicator system called Low-Carbon and Green Index for Cities (LOGIC) that evaluates the performance of Chinese cities in terms of low-carbon development and identifies areas for improvement. This system issues a score ranging from 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating a better performance in lower carbon growth within a specified time period. LOGIC was applied to a sample of 115 Chinese cities representing a diverse range of population sizes, income levels, geographies and stages of economic and urban growth between 2010 and 2015. The results of this study indicate that these cities have made progress in green and low-carbon development. In addition, more than 90 of the 115 sampled cities experienced GDP growth alongside LOGIC score growth over the selected period, showing that green and low-carbon goals are not antithetical to good economic performance. The average overall index score for all 115 Chinese cities in 2015 was 44.9 out of 100, reflecting China’s heavy reliance on coal and its energy-intensive economy. Low-carbon pilot cities had an average overall index score of 47.0 in 2015 compared to an average of 42.9 for non-pilot cities. These LOGIC results suggest that transforming city economies away from energy-intensive towards high-tech and service industries could facilitate their low-carbon and green growth. This article uses the city of Wuhan as a case study to illustrate the application of LOGIC and its utility in assessing city-level low-carbon efforts.
Polyaniline and quantum dot-based nanostructures: Developments and perspectives
Authors: Kausar Ayesha
Published: May 2020

Quantum dots are 2–5 nm nanoparticles with exceptional optical, electronic, luminescence, and semiconducting properties. Polyaniline is an exclusive conjugated polymer. This article reviews recent efforts, scientific trials, and technological solicitations of the polyaniline/quantum dot-based nanocomposites. Polyaniline/quantum dot mixtures form a unique composition for advance materials and applications. Carbon dots, graphene quantum dots, and several inorganic quantum dots have been added to a conducting polymer. A functional quantum dot may develop electrostatic, van der Waal, and π–π stacking interactions with the conjugated polymer backbone. Uniform quantum dot dispersion in polyaniline may result in inimitable morphology, electrical conductivity, electrochemical properties, capacitance, and sensing features. Finally, this review expounds on the many applications for polyaniline/quantum dot nanocomposites including dye-sensitized solar cell, supercapacitor, electronics, gas sensor, biosensor, and bioimaging.
How does the servant supervisor influence the employability of postgraduates? Exploring the mechanisms of self-efficacy and academic engagement
Authors: Zhong Lifeng , Qian Zhichao , Wang Dongdong
Published: May 2020

Drawing on the conservation of resource theory, this study investigates the mediating effects of self-efficacy and academic engagement in the relationship between servant supervision and postgraduates’ employability. We conducted a field study with 598 postgraduates (students for the research-based master's degree and PhD candidates) enrolled in universities in China to test our hypotheses. We developed and tested a model contending that servant supervisors propagate servant supervision among postgraduates through postgraduates’ self-efficacy and academic engagement, which indirectly influences postgraduates’ employability. The results support the mediating effects of both self-efficacy and academic engagement on the relationship between servant supervision and postgraduates’ employability. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Neuropsin in mental health
Authors: Bukowski Lina , Chernomorchenko Ana M. F. , Starnawska Anna , Mors Ole , Staunstrup Nicklas H. , Børglum Anders D. , Qvist Per
Published: May 2020

Neuropsin is a brain-expressed extracellular matrix serine protease that governs synaptic plasticity through activity-induced proteolytic cleavage of synaptic proteins. Its substrates comprise several molecules central to structural synaptic plasticity, and studies in rodents have documented its role in cognition and the behavioral and neurobiological response to stress. Intriguingly, differential usage of KLK8 (neuropsin gene) splice forms in the fetal and adult brain has only been reported in humans, suggesting that neuropsin may serve a specialized role in human neurodevelopment. Through systematic interrogation of large-scale genetic data, we review KLK8 regulation in the context of mental health and provide a summary of clinical and preclinical evidence supporting a role for neuropsin in the pathogenesis of mental illness.