bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on identification of irrational fractional-order systems in frequency domain based on optimization algorithm
Authors: Lanfeng Chen , Dingyu Xue
Published: June 2019

Fractional-order calculus can obtain better results than the integer-order in control theory, so it has become a research hotspot in recent years. However, the structure of the irrational fractional-order system is complex, so its theoretical analysis and controller design are more difficult. In this paper, a method based on convolution integral is proposed to obtain the frequency domain response of the irrational model. Combined with the optimization algorithm, the model parameters are identified. Moreover, the rationalization of the irrational model is realized, which facilitates the analysis and application design of this kind models. Finally, two examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the method by identifying parameters and rationalization.
Between lecture and flipped: The use of “labs” in the public administration classroom
Authors: Engbers Trent
Published: June 2019

The use of applied labs has long been an established practice in the natural sciences as a means of stressing application of theoretical principles and fostering disciplinary excitement. The social sciences have seen an advent of similar problem-based approaches, but have not adopted a lab-based model. Labs offer an opportunity to use class time for purposes of application without moving fully to a flipped classroom model. This article presents the use of labs in three undergraduate public administration classes: Introduction to Public Administration, Research Design and Data Collection, and Statistics and Data Analysis. The labs are collaborative and feature both peer and instructor support. They utilized an established problem-based strategy to demonstrate the real-life applicability of academic topics ( Kolb, 1984 ; Kramer and Schechter, 2011 ). Data collected from 10 sections of the courses before and after implementation show increased student satisfaction and greater self-reported learning, though the effect on academic performance is more moderated.
Beyond music: Emotional skills and its development in young adults in choirs and bands
Authors: Ros-Morente Agnès , Oriola-Requena Salvador , Gustems-Carnicer Josep , Filella Guiu Gemma
Published: June 2019

Latest studies point out the importance of emotional competencies in young people’s education. Music is closely linked to people’s personal development and the evidence suggests that there are differences in young people who participate in group music-making activities and young people who do not. In the present study we analysed the socioemotional profile of sample of Spanish adolescent musicians who sang in choirs or played in bands. A total of 660 adolescent musicians and 655 non-musicians participated in the study, which evaluated emotional competencies, life satisfaction, motivation to study and capacity of leadership. At the same time, an ad hoc questionnaire was also administered to the musicians to obtain their academic musical profile. The results of the study show statistically significant differences between musicians and non-musicians in all measured variables, and suggest that, in line with previous research, belonging to a musical ensemble, such as choirs and bands, is related with the development of many skills as well as self-perception. Furthermore, it promotes the development of socioemotional competencies, motivation and leadership.
Endocannabinoid system imbalance in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of subjects with schizophrenia
Authors: Muguruza Carolina , Morentin Benito , Meana J Javier , Alexander Stephen PH , Callado Luis F
Published: June 2019

Background:

The endocannabinoid system – comprising cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoid ligands and their synthesis and inactivation enzymes – has been widely implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, little is known regarding the status of the different elements of the endocannabinoid system in the brain of schizophrenic patients. We have previously reported altered endocannabinoid levels in the postmortem brain of subjects with schizophrenia compared with matched controls.

Aims:

Our aim was to further examine the status of the main elements of the endocannabinoid system in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of the same cohort of subjects.

Methods:

Gene expression and function of the cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) and the endocannabinoid degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) have been assessed.

Results:

A significant decrease in CB1 mRNA levels in schizophrenia was found, without alteration of FAAH or MAGL mRNA expression. Moreover, positive correlations among mRNA expressions of the three genes studied were found in the prefrontal cortex of controls but not in schizophrenic subjects. No alteration was found in CB1 receptor mediated functional coupling to G-proteins, but a significant increase of FAAH activity was found in schizophrenic subjects compared with controls. 2-arachidonoylglycerol levels and MAGL activity were found to positively correlate in controls but not in schizophrenic subjects.

Conclusions:

The present findings reveal an imbalance in the expression and function of different elements of the endocannabinoid system in schizophrenia. This outcome highlights the relevance of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and emphasises its elements as potential targets in the search for new therapeutic strategies.
Pre-cardiopulmonary bypass administration of dexmedetomidine decreases cardiac troponin I level following cardiac surgery with sevoflurane postconditioning
Authors: Zhou Hong-mei , Ling Xiao-yan , Ni Yun-jian , Wu Cheng , Zhu Zhi-peng
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study was performed to determine the effect of dexmedetomidine (DEX) administration on myocardial damage in cardiac surgery with sevoflurane postconditioning.

Methods

We retrospectively examined all cardiac valve replacement surgeries from 1 April 2016 to 30 April 2017. Eligible patients were divided into two groups based on whether DEX was infused. DEX infusion was permitted only between intubation and the beginning of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Sevoflurane was inhaled via the standard postconditioning procedure starting at aortic declamping. The cardiac troponin I (cTnI) level was measured at different time points. The postoperative outcomes and complications were also analyzed.

Results

One hundred patients were included in the study (DEX group, n = 53; non-DEX group, n = 47). Increased cTnI levels were significantly correlated with the New York Heart Association classification, CPB time, and DEX use. DEX use and the CPB time were potential independent factors contributing to changes in the cTnI level. The cTnI level at 6, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively was remarkably lower in the DEX than non-DEX group by 1.14, 7.83, and 5.86 ng/mL, respectively.

Conclusions

DEX decreased the cTnI level after CPB when sevoflurane postconditioning was used, especially at 6, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively.
Hidden blood loss and its possible risk factors in cervical open-door laminoplasty
Authors: Jiang Chao , Chen Tian-He , Chen Ze-Xin , Sun Ze-Ming , Zhang Hui , Wu Yao-Sen
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To evaluate hidden blood loss (HBL) and its possible risk factors among patients following expansive open-door laminoplasty (EOLP) for multilevel, cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of data from patients over 18 years of age who underwent posterior cervical EOLP (from C3-C6) in our department from January 2017 to July 2018. HBL was calculated by deducting the observed perioperative blood loss from the calculated total blood loss (TBL) based on the fall in haematocrit level.

Results

45 patients (35 men and 10 women) were identified. Mean ± SD HBL was 337.2 ± 187.8 ml, which was 46.8% of the total perioperative blood loss (705.2 ± 269.6 ml). Twenty-three patients developed postoperative anaemia. Posterior cervical soft tissue was positively correlated with both TBL and hidden blood loss (HBL) and hypertension was positively correlated with TBL.

Conclusions

HBL following cervical EOLP was significant and should be recognised as a detrimental factor to patient safety during the perioperative period, especially in patients with thick posterior cervical soft tissue.
Improving Efficiency of Mineral Terminal Performance using Lean Railroading
Authors: Fakoor Arghavan , Mehranfar Hamed , Bagheri Morteza , Ahmadi Abbas
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study is to investigate and identify the waste from the unloading station of mineral cars using the lean thinking approach. In this paper, one of the largest steel producers is investigated as a case study. The time information was collected from the database system of the factory and railway company from April to July 2017. The wastes were identified by using the value stream map, and to reduce the waste, ten solutions have been proposed based on the changes in: (a) operation management; (b) purchase of new equipment; and (c) infrastructure development. Implementation of solutions using the Planimate simulator software shows that the best strategy consists of a combination of three operational management solutions without having to purchase new equipment and without any infrastructure development, which can improve station performance by up to 52% with regards to the total time for the unloading process. In addition, the valuable time of the whole process has been increased from 9 to 19%. This improvement will result in an increase of 21% in the annual turnover of cars to the station destination. As a result, each car annually carries on average 450 tons more freight, in which case the railway’s revenues from carrying iron ore would be increased by 24% for this destination.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Young Female Athletes: Patellar Versus Hamstring Tendon Autografts
Authors: Salem Hytham S. , Varzhapetyan Vahe , Patel Nimit , Dodson Christopher C. , Tjoumakaris Fotios P. , Freedman Kevin B.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Female athletes are 2 to 8 times more prone to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture than males. Furthermore, reinjury to the ipsilateral or contralateral knee can occur in >20% of athletes. Female sex and younger age are known risk factors for graft failure. The optimal graft choice for young females remains unknown and poorly studied.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The authors aimed to compare clinical outcomes in young females who underwent ACL reconstruction (ACLR) with bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) and quadrupled hamstring (HS) autografts. It was hypothesized that no significant differences in outcomes exist between graft choices.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Female patients aged 15 to 25 years who underwent primary ACLR with BTB or HS autograft were included for review. Patients were subdivided into 2 age groups: 15 to 20 years and 21 to 25 years. The occurrence of chondral, meniscal, or ligamentous injury to either knee was recorded for comparison.

Results:

A total of 256 females were included (BTB, n = 175; HS, n = 81). The majority of patients were between the ages of 15 and 20 years (BTB, 80%; HS, 77.8%). Overall, graft rupture occurred in 23 patients (9%) and contralateral ACL tear occurred in 18 (7%). Subgroup analysis showed that 75% of BTB and 100% of HS graft retears occurred in females aged 15 to 20 years. Within this age group, there was a significantly lower rate of graft ruptures in the BTB group (6.4%) as compared with the HS group (17.5%, P = .02). Allograft augmentation was used in 4 of the 11 HS grafts that retore. When allograft-augmented grafts were excluded, there was no significant difference in graft failure rate between graft choices. Fifteen patients in the BTB group (12%) as opposed to 1 in the HS group (2%) reported extreme difficulty or the inability to kneel on the front of the knee ( P = .04).

Conclusion:

In females aged 15 to 20 years undergoing ACLR, BTB autograft may lead to fewer graft ruptures than HS autograft. While this difference was not observed in females aged 21 to 25 years, a larger sample may be required to accept the null hypothesis in this age group. BTB autograft significantly increased the risk of kneeling pain as compared with HS regardless of age.
Healthcare uses of artificial intelligence: Challenges and opportunities for growth
Authors: Racine Eric , Boehlen Wren , Sample Matthew
Published: June 2019

Forms of Artificial Intelligence (AI), like deep learning algorithms and neural networks, are being intensely explored for novel healthcare applications in areas such as imaging and diagnoses, risk analysis, lifestyle management and monitoring, health information management, and virtual health assistance. Expected benefits in these areas are wide-ranging and include increased speed in imaging, greater insight into predictive screening, and decreased healthcare costs and inefficiency. However, AI-based clinical tools also create a host of situations wherein commonly-held values and ethical principles may be challenged. In this short column, we highlight three potentially problematic aspects of AI use in healthcare: (1) dynamic information and consent, (2) transparency and ownership, and (3) privacy and discrimination. We discuss their impact on patient/client, clinician, and health institution values and suggest ways to tackle this impact. We propose that AI-related ethical challenges may represent an opportunity for growth in organizations.
Knowledge to action framework for home health monitoring
Authors: Lee Christine , Ho Kendall
Published: June 2019

Chronic disease management is a grand challenge, both to the patients for optimal management and to the overall health system with cost utilization. Emerging research evidence suggests that Home Health Monitoring (HHM) using home-based, remoting monitoring technologies can improve the patients’ quality of life, self-management, and achieve cost-effectiveness for the health system. How should HHM be introduced and integrated appropriately into the current healthcare delivery pathways to improve patient care and collect evidence of benefits simultaneously? The Knowledge to Action (KTA) framework is an effective approach in the implementation science literature to methodically guide the translation of evidence-based research findings into practice, putting knowledge into practical use. This article examines the use of the seven-step KTA model to address implementation facilitators and barriers of applying HHM in chronic disease management and then focus on its applicability on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as an example.
Signing on: A reconsideration of Newfoundland seafarers’ ‘illiteracy’, 1860-1930
Authors: Power Cynthia
Published: June 2019

Newfoundland-born seafarers stood out from others aboard nineteenth- and twentieth-century vessels by the relative frequency with which they used an ‘x’ to sign a crew agreement. According to historians’ conventions, this identified them as illiterate. Inadequacy in reading and writing skills is often construed as ignorance, a supposition David Alexander challenged in his 1970s study of social and economic inequality. In a more concerted analysis of Newfoundland seafarers’ literacy skills, I argue against the binary understanding of literate and illiterate people. In a place where maritime activity has spawned a strong oral culture, the groundwork of researchers based in Memorial University has facilitated an understanding of the dynamic and robust nature of vernacular knowledge. Nevertheless, a lack of education can operate ideologically and materially as discriminatory. While the evidence comes from a predominantly male workplace, I take into account the methods by which seafarers acquired reading and writing capabilities. Considering women’s higher literacy rates and their role in education in Newfoundland bridges seafarers’ lives onshore and at sea.
Promotion of skin fibroblasts collagen synthesis by polydioxanone mats combined with concentrated growth factor extracts
Authors: Yue Haiqiong , Zhou Libin , Zou Rui , Li Zhicong , Liao Ting , Yan Jing , Zhou Yang , Yang Mi , Piao Zhengguo
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to combine polydioxanone and concentrated growth factor extracts to enhance the stimulation of fibroblast collagen synthesis by polydioxanone in facial plastic. In this experiment, polydioxanone was prepared as a nanoscale bioresorbable scaffold by electrospinning. The PDO-CGF mat was prepared by loading the concentrated growth factor extract onto the polydioxanone mat by lyophilization after soaking. The diameter of the mat fibers was observed by scanning electron microscopy, and the mechanical properties, biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the material were analyzed. The release rate of transforming growth factor-beat1 (TGF-β1) in the PDO-CGF mat was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the amount of collagen synthesis was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence. The results showed that the PDO-CGF mat had a nanometer-scale fiber diameter and an elastic modulus similar to skin and was able to pull during cell contraction. The PDO-CGF mat showed good biocompatibility, and the appropriate concentration of the PDO-CGF mat can significantly promote cell proliferation. ELISA showed that the PDO-CGF mat stably and continuously released TGF-β1. RT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining showed that the PDO-CGF mat stimulated fibroblasts to synthesize type I and type III collagen. These results indicate that a suitable concentration of the PDO-CGF mat can better promote the synthesis of collagen by fibroblasts.
Breastfeeding Duration and Infant Sleep Location in a Cohort of Volunteer Breastfeeding Counselors
Authors: Bailey Cate , Tawia Susan , McGuire Elizabeth
Published: June 2019

Background

Debate about mother and infant bed sharing has been polarized between supporters of bed sharing and public health policies that attempt to mitigate the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Differences in group demographics may be an important aspect in co-sleeping acceptability.

Research aims

The first aim of this study was to investigate infant sleeping location in a dataset of mothers with strong breastfeeding outcomes. The second aim was to investigate the association between infant sleeping location and breastfeeding (exclusive breastfeeding to 6 months and total breastfeeding duration). Finally, we aimed to investigate predictors of breastfeeding duration.

Methods

Participants comprised 174 women who had applied to train as counselors with the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Data were compiled from a survey of the participants’ lactation histories, including questions related to the exclusivity and duration of breastfeeding, concerns about and problems encountered during breastfeeding, type of birth, medications during birth, demographics, and infant sleeping location. The study design was a cross-sectional, one-group survey design.

Results

A high proportion of participants in this study bed shared and room shared: At 0–1 month ( n = 58), 33% of participants bed-shared, which increased to 58% by 6–12 months ( n = 80). Infants who co-slept were more likely to be exclusively breastfed at 6 months (χ2 (2, n = 116) = 4.83, p = .03) and had longer breastfeeding duration ( t (62.61) = 3.81, p < .001).

Conclusions

Breastfeeding targets have been difficult to achieve globally, and innovative ideas are required to improve breastfeeding outcomes through public health messaging. There was a strong association in the current study between breastfeeding outcomes and degree of closeness of the infant to the mother at night. This finding should be brought into the discourse on breastfeeding and infant sleep arrangements, accompanied by evidence-based advice about safe sleeping and the promotion of breastfeeding.
Sexual Identity Management Strategies and Occupational Well-Being: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Cheung Francis , Chan Whywhy
Published: June 2019

In this study, we adopted the latent profile analysis (LPA) to examine whether the sexual identity management profiles relate to different occupational well-being including job satisfaction, emotional exhaustion, and depressive symptoms. A total of 225 Hong Kong Chinese full-time employees were recruited online. Four profiles were identified, namely, passive ( n = 31), integration dominant ( n = 81), hiding ( n = 21), and balanced ( n = 92). Results suggest that integration-dominant employees tended to report higher job satisfaction but lower emotional exhaustion and depressive symptoms. In contrast, employees with hiding profiles (i.e., high on counterfeiting and avoidance but low on integration) reported the lowest job satisfaction and highest emotional exhaustion and depressive symptoms. The limitations and implications of this study were also discussed.
An energy management platform for micro-grid systems using Internet of Things and Big-data technologies
Authors: Elmouatamid Abdellatif , NaitMalek Youssef , Bakhouya Mohamed , Ouladsine Radouane , Elkamoun Najib , Zine-Dine Khalid , Khaidar Mohammed
Published: June 2019

Micro-grid systems have been recently emerged for efficient integration and management of renewable energy sources, buildings’ equipment (e.g. ventilation; lighting; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and energy storage devices. The intermittent nature of the produced electricity from renewable energy sources constitutes, however, the main challenge for their seamless integration into buildings. Recent studies stated that storage devices, despite their actual high cost, could be used to tackle this issue by balancing between the variability of renewable energy sources production and the unpredictable building’s occupancy. However, managing the power flows in micro-grid systems is highly required in order to minimize the consumption from the electric grid while ensuring the quality and the reliability of electrical services. In this article, a micro-grid system platform is introduced for efficient integration and management of renewable energy sources and storage devices. The platform’s architecture is composed of three main components: (a) the power generation components that integrate the renewable energy sources together with the storage devices and the traditional electrical grid, (b) an advanced metering component for data gathering and analysis, and (c) control services for power flow management. The platform was developed and deployed in a real-setting scenario. Simulations and experimentations have been performed and results show the usefulness of the proposed platform for efficient management of the deployed micro-grid system.
Thymidylate Synthase, a New Myoepithelial Biomarker for Breast Lesions
Authors: Guo Rui , Tian Yi , Jin Xueyuan , Huang Xiaozhong , Yang Jun
Published: June 2019

Background. The identification of myoepithelial cells (MECs) can facilitate the differential diagnosis of breast lesions. We previously found thymidylate synthase (TS) expression in the nuclei of MECs in breast tissues, which prompted us to investigate the usefulness of TS as a sensitive and specific biomarker in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions, similar to other MEC biomarkers (ie, tumor protein [P63] and cluster of differentiation 10 [CD10]). Methods. Immunohistochemistry for TS, P63, and CD10 was performed on paraffin sections from 189 breast specimens. Results. The results showed the intensity of the immunoreactive TS signal to be comparable with that of P63 in the nuclei of MECs. Furthermore, the nuclei of MECs stained strongly for TS and P63 in normal breast tissues (obtained adjacent to invasive breast lesions), benign breast lesions, and carcinoma in situ, whereas the cytoplasm of MECs stained strongly for CD10. The immunoreactive TS signal in the cytoplasm of MECs was variable in 22 out of 32 (65.6%) cases of invasive breast carcinoma and 4 out of 20 cases (20.0%) of ductal carcinoma in situ. We found no immunoreactive TS signal in the nuclei of luminal and stromal cells in breast lesions, although there was a weak positive signal in the cytoplasm of luminal and stromal cells. Conclusions. TS is a sensitive and specific MEC biomarker in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions.
The Impact of Juvenile Sex Offending on the Adult Criminal Career
Authors: Reale Kylie , McCuish Evan , Corrado Raymond
Published: June 2019

Although past studies demonstrated the heterogeneity of the criminal career patterns of juveniles with sexual offenses (JSOs), such studies did not directly assess whether JSOs have different adult offending outcomes compared with juvenile nonsex offenders. Using data on a subsample of males from the Incarcerated Serious and Violent Young Offender Study, JSOs ( n = 78), juveniles with violent offenses (JVOs; n = 550), and juveniles with nonviolent offenses (JNVOs; n = 281) were compared across a variety of adult offending outcomes. JSOs were not associated with a specific trajectory of general offending in adulthood, nor were they associated with a range of adult criminal career parameters (e.g., frequency, severity, specialization, and versatility). However, a range of other indicators of juvenile offending were associated with general offending in adulthood. For juvenile males who experience incarceration, many elements of their offending history mattered for adult offending outcomes, but not sexual offending. Policy implications for treatment and management are discussed.
Toxicological Assessment of a Standardized Boswellia serrata Gum Resin Extract
Authors: Alluri Venkata Krishnaraju , Dodda Sundararaju , Kilari Eswar Kumar , Golakoti Trimurtulu , Sengupta Krishanu
Published: June 2019

The acidic and non-acidic fractions of Boswellia serrata gum resin extracts were combined to prepare a unique product, LI13019F1 (Serratrin). The present series of studies evaluated LI13019F1 for acute and subchronic (28-day) toxicity in Wistar rats and acute dermal and eye irritation in New Zealand white rabbits. The mutagenicity and clastogenicity of LI13019F1 were evaluated in bacteria and mouse bone marrow erythrocytes, respectively. All studies were performed following the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines. Acute oral and acute dermal toxicity studies did not show mortality or signs of toxicity in Wistar rats at a limit dose of 2,000 mg/kg LI13019F1. LI13019F1 did not cause irritation to the skin or the eyes of New Zealand white rabbits. In a repeated dose 28-day oral toxicity study, LI13019F1-treated Wistar rats did not show dose-related signs of toxicity on their body weights, organ weights, and on the hematology and clinical chemistry parameters. The estimated no observed adverse effect level for LI13019F1 was 1,000 mg/kg/day in both male and female rats. The bacterial reverse mutation test and a micronucleus assay in mouse bone marrow erythrocytes revealed that LI13019F1 was neither mutagenic nor clastogenic. Together, the present observations demonstrate a broad-spectrum safety of LI13019F1.
Numerical investigation for characteristics and oil–air distributions of oil film in a tilting-pad journal bearing
Authors: Ding Aoshuang , Ren Xiaodong , Li Xuesong , Gu Chunwei
Published: June 2019

This paper analyzes the effects of air in the oil film of a tilting-pad journal bearing on oil–air distributions and characteristics. With a gaseous cavitation model and shear stress transport model with low-Re correction included, the air backflow from the outlet boundary is analyzed in numerical simulations of a titling-pad journal bearing at 3000 r/min rotation speed and under 180 kN load. The simulated bearing load, pressure, and mechanical loss are in good accordance with the experimental data, indicating that the simulation results of the air backflow from the outlet boundary can catch the hydrodynamic characteristics accurately. Based on the turbulence viscosity ratio analysis, the turbulence effect cannot be ignored at the high rotational speed. With the comparison between the unloaded area and the loaded area, the boundary layer and turbulent flow develops with the film thickness increasing. Based on the analyses of simulated air volume fraction and pressure distribution, the gaseous cavitation occurs around the center part of the unloaded area, following the gaseous cavitation mechanisms. The backflow air flows into the low-pressure unloaded area from the outlet boundary and has a clear interval with the air from the gaseous cavitation. The air volume fraction increases with these two air sources and affects the mixture viscosity significantly, eventually influencing the shear stress on the rotor-side wall and bearing mechanical loss.
A cost analysis comparing telepsychiatry to in-person psychiatric outreach and patient travel reimbursement in Northern Ontario communities
Authors: Serhal Eva , Lazor Tanya , Kurdyak Paul , Crawford Allison , de Oliveira Claire , Hancock-Howard Rebecca , Coyte Peter C
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Residents of Northern Ontario have limited access to local psychiatric care. To address this, three program models exist: (1) telepsychiatry; (2) psychiatrists traveling to underserved areas; and (3) reimbursing patients for travel to a psychiatrist. Evidence shows that telepsychiatry has comparable outcomes to in-person consultations. The objective of this study was to determine the cost difference between programs.

Methods

A cost-minimization analysis estimating cost per visit from a public healthcare payer economic costing perspective was conducted. Data on fixed and variable costs were obtained. Evidence-based assumptions were made where relevant. Base-case scenarios and a break-even analysis were completed, as well as deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses, to explore the effects of parameter variability on program costs.

Results

Costs per visit were lowest in telepsychiatry (CAD$360) followed by traveling physicians (CAD$558) and patient reimbursement (CAD$620). Among the 100,000 Monte Carlo simulations, results showed telepsychiatry was the least costly program in 71.2% of the simulations, while the reimbursement and outreach programs were least costly in 15.1% and 13.7% of simulations, respectively. The break-even analysis found telepsychiatry was the least costly program after an annual patient visit threshold of approximately 76 visits (compared to traveling psychiatrists) and 126 visits (compared to reimbursed patients).

Discussion

Our analyses support telepsychiatry as the least costly program. These results have important implications for program planning, including the prioritization of telepsychiatry, increased integration of telepsychiatry with other modalities of outreach psychiatry, and limiting use of the patient remuneration program to where medically necessary, to reduce overall cost.
Low frequency of a deforming capillary vibration, part 1: Mathematical model
Authors: Jin Xiao , Liu Meina , Pan Feng , Li Yaping , Fan Jie
Published: June 2019

The capillary effect has wide applications from biology and textile engineering to nanotechnology especially the micro-electromechanical systems and microfluidics device. The capillary vibration significantly affects its mass transmission. This paper establishes a nonlinear oscillator of a deforming capillary tube. The geometric potential theory is used to estimate the capillary force. The paper reveals that the low-frequency property of capillary vibration plays an important role not only in life but also engineering applications.
Prediction method for offset compensation on three-dimensional mandrel with spatial irregular shape
Authors: Zhuo Meng , Lingling Yao , Jianqiu Bu , Yize Sun
Published: June 2019

In this paper, trajectory control of arbitrary shape mandrel in three-dimensional circular braiding is studied. To obtain accurate trajectory, offset of mandrel is predicted and compensated for trajectory of mandrel. Firstly, the equation of the force of all yarns on three-dimensional mandrel is given. Then offset of mandrel in single layer braiding machine is analyzed via finite element software. Learning these data via back propagation neural network algorithm, offset of mandrel at each moment is derived. The trajectory generation of three-dimensional mandrel based on offset compensation by roll pitch yaw transformation is given. Lastly, braiding angle for the mandrel is analyzed theoretically. In the practical engineering, this method is proven to effectively reduce the error of braiding angle and helpful for the precise control of the trajectory of arbitrary shape mandrel.
Efficacy of a Ceratothoa oestroides Olive Oil Extract in Patients With Chronic Ulcers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Vitsos Andreas , Tsagarousianos Christos , Vergos Orestis , Stithos Dionysios , Mathioudakis Dimitrios , Vitsos Ioannis , Zouni Panayota , Kakolyri Athina , Meimeti Evangelia , Kyriazi Maria , Antoniadou Ivi , Tentolouris Nikolaos , Dallas Paraskevas , Roussis Vassilios , Rallis Michail
Published: June 2019

Chronic wounds unresponsive to existing treatments constitute a serious disease burden. Factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic ulcers include oxidative stress, comorbid microbial infections, and the type of immune system response. Preclinically, and in a case study, a formulation containing a Ceratothoa oestroides olive oil extract promoted wound healing. Patients with chronic venous and pressure ulcers, clinically assessed as being unresponsive to healing agents, were treated for 3 months with an ointment containing the C oestroides extract combined with antibiotic and/or antiseptic agents chosen according to the type of bacterial infection. Treatment evaluation was performed using the Bates-Jensen criteria with +WoundDesk and MOWA cell phone applications. After 3 months of treatment, C oestroides resulted in an average decrease of 36% in the Bates-Jensen score of ulcers ( P < .000), with the decrease being significant from the first month ( P < .007). The combined use of topically applied antibiotics and antiseptics efficiently controlled microbial ulcer infection and facilitated wound healing. In relation to other factors such as initial wound size, chronicity appeared to be an important prognostic factor regarding the extent of wound healing. Future clinical investigations assessing the wound healing efficacy of the C oestroides olive oil extract are warranted.
Potential Anticancer Activities of a Combination of Curcumin, Ginger Oleoresin, and Rutin Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (Vietlife-Antican) in LLC Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Thao Do Thi , Nga Nguyen Thi , Van Nguyen Anh , Hung Kieu Dinh
Published: June 2019

Natural products play an important role in medicine and human healthcare and, as a result, drugs that are derived from natural resources are increasingly being used for the treatment of various diseases, including cancer. Vietlife-Antican (VLA) is a novel combination of curcumin solid lipid nanoparticles, ginger oleoresin solid lipid nanoparticles, and rutin solid lipid nanoparticles, which all possess low toxicity and enhanced bioavailabilities. To clarify the antitumor effects of this product, cytotoxic tests of VLA were conducted in various cancer cell lines in vitro and in an in vivo tumorized mouse model induced by Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells. VLA expressed some cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells (MCF7), hepatocarcinoma cells (HepG2), lung cancer cells (SK-LU-1), colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (SW480), and human leukemia cells (HL-60). Additionally, LLC tumor-bearing mice treated with VLA (600 mg/kg body weight [bw]) exhibited significant reductions in tumor growth ( P < 0.05), a longer mean survival time (34.05 days), and improved liver function. Furthermore, a combination of VLA (200 mg/kg bw) and cisplatin strongly suppressed tumor development and increased mean survival time ( P < 0.05). Interestingly, cotreatment with VLA and cisplatin also induced the serum production of interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-10, which are important antitumor and anti-inflammatory cytokines, respectively, in tumorized mice. Taken together, the present results suggest that VLA may be a very promising and efficient phytochemical product that can support cancer treatment or therapy.
Acantholippia salsoloides: Phytochemical Composition and Biological Potential of a Thujonic Population
Authors: Celaya Liliana , Viturro Carmen , Silva Luís R.
Published: June 2019

Acantholippia salsoloides (Verbenaceae) is an aromatic plant widespread in the Andean region. The infusion (leaves and flowers) is widely used as a digestive stimulant as well as for the treatment of various diseases in traditional medicine. A. salsoloides attributes its common name “rica-rica” to the fresh and sweet fragrance of the plant. In this work, 2 different polar extracts and the essential oil of a selected rica-rica population were studied. The phenolic composition was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography diode array detector; the essential oil profile was determined by gas-chromatography ion-trap mass spectrometry/flame ionization detection. For all extracts, the antibacterial potential was performed by in vitro assays; the antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition were determined in decoction and hydroethanolic extracts. The volatile profile allowed the identification of 26 volatile compounds, β-thujone (84%) being the major one in this rica-rica population. Eighteen phenolic compounds were identified; isoferulic acid (16%-18%) and cynaroside (45%-47%) were the larger ones. In a general way, the hydroethanolic extract was more active against Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus (minimum inhibitory concentrations= 0.3- 1.3 mg/mL). Both polar extracts have strong antiradical activities although decoction extract proved to be more active against DPPH· (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] =36 µg/mL) and O2•− (IC50 =28 µg/mL) while hydroethanolic extract shows higher action over α-glucosidase (IC50 =217 µg/mL). The results suggest that A. salsoloides leaves and flowers may be an interesting source of natural antioxidants, antidiabetics, or antimicrobials, and could be used in dietary supplements, medicinal products and pharmaceutical formulations.
Role of coronary angiography in patients with a non-diagnostic electrocardiogram following out of hospital cardiac arrest: Rationale and design of the multicentre randomized controlled COUPE trial
Authors: Viana-Tejedor Ana , Ariza-Solé Albert , Martínez-Sellés Manuel , Mena Manuel Jiménez , Vila Montserrat , García Cosme , García Acuña JM , Bañeras Jordi , García Rubira Juan C , Pérez Pablo J , Querol Carlos T , Pastor Gemma , Andrea Rut , Osorio Pablo L , Alonso Norberto , Martínez Cristina , Pérez Rodríguez María , Noriega Francisco J , Ferrera Carlos , Salinas Pablo , Gil Iván Núñez , Ortiz Antonio Fernández , Macaya Carlos
Published: June 2019

Background:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The role of emergency coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) following cardiac arrest in patients without ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains unclear.

Aims:

We aim to assess whether emergency CAG and PCI, when indicated, will improve survival with good neurological outcome in post-OHCA patients without STEMI who remain comatose.

Methods:

COUPE is a prospective, multicentre and randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 166 survivors of OHCA without STEMI will be included. Potentially non-cardiac aetiology of the cardiac arrest will be ruled out prior to randomization. Randomization will be 1:1 for emergency (within 2 h) or deferred (performed before discharge) CAG. Both groups will receive routine care in the intensive cardiac care unit, including therapeutic hypothermia. The primary efficacy endpoint is a composite of in-hospital survival free of severe dependence, which will be evaluated using the Cerebral Performance Category Scale. The safety endpoint will be a composite of major adverse cardiac events including death, reinfarction, bleeding and ventricular arrhythmias.

Conclusions:

This study will assess the efficacy of an emergency CAG versus a deferred one in OHCA patients without STEMI in terms of survival and neurological impairment.
A Rare Manifestation of a Rare Disease: Mantle Cell Lymphoma Presenting With Aseptic Meningitis
Authors: Umyarova Elvira , Adapa Sreedhar , Naramala Srikanth , Gayam Vijay , Aeddula Narothama Reddy , Konala Venu Madhav
Published: June 2019

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by clonal proliferation of follicular mantle zone B lymphocytes. It is caused by abnormal chromosomal translocation t(11;14) resulting in aberrant expression of cyclin D1. This leads to activation of anti-apoptotic pathways and abnormal proliferation of MCL cells. Patients can present with an indolent course or a fulminant disease with short overall survival. The disease frequently involves extranodal organs, but rarely manifests with neurological symptoms. We report a rare case of aberrant CD5-negative MCL presenting with aseptic meningitis.
Navigating HR Journey in Exponential Times
Authors: Sasmal Suman
Published: June 2019

How does one emulate some of the most successful companies of our times? These are companies, growing at 10X—100X as compared to its peers and creating extra-ordinary value for customers. And, what if someone had reverse engineered the recipes of these companies and then codified them for others to learn from? While VUCA appears to be a threat on the surface, a deeper understanding of the changing nuances of business can turn ‘oh-my-God moments’ into exponential possibilities. The article examines a few paradigms in the talent space and argues that HR leadership is uniquely positioned to play a leading role in the making of an exponential organisation.
Winds of Change are Blowing.… My Perspectives
Authors: Kalia Rajan
Published: June 2019

HR is going through tectonic change in the way it will operate, be seen and practiced in the coming years. Three changes that are impacting it are geo-political, social and technological. Each one is changing the way it will operate here on. HR professionals will need to learn new skills and also get ready to expand their narrow roles. They will have to become competent in technology, understand and serve the interest of individual talent and learn to influence stakeholders in newer ways. They need to act upon three areas with urgency: learn technology, being influential to variety of stakeholders and being compassionate.
PPAR expression, muscle size, and metabolic rates across the Gray catbird's annual cycle are greatest in preparation for fall migration
Authors: DeMoranville Kristen , Corder Keely R. , Hamilton Angelica , Russell David E. , Huss Janice M. , Schaeffer Paul J.
Published: June 2019

Phenotypic flexibility across the annual cycle allows birds to adjust to fluctuating ecological demands. Varying energetic demands associated with time of year have been demonstrated to drive metabolic and muscle plasticity in birds, but it remains unclear what molecular mechanisms control this flexibility. We sampled Gray catbirds at five stages across their annual cycle: tropical wintering (January), northward spring (late) migration (early May), breeding (mid June), the fall pre-migratory period (early August), and southward fall (early) migration (end September). Across the catbird's annual cycle, cold-induced metabolic rate (V̇o2summit) was highest during migration and lowest during tropical wintering. Flight muscles exhibited significant hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia during fall migratory periods compared to breeding and the fall pre-migratory period. Changes in heart mass were driven by the tropical wintering stage where heart mass was lowest. Mitochondrial content of the heart and pectoralis remained constant across the annual cycle as quantified by aerobic enzyme activities (CS, CCO), as did lipid catabolic capacity (HOAD). In the pectoralis, transcription factors PPARα, PPARδ, and ERRβ, coactivators PGC-1α and β, and genes associated with fat uptake (FABPpm, Plin3) were unexpectedly upregulated in the tropical wintering stage and genes involved in fatty acid oxidation (ATGL, LPL, MCAD) were downregulated suggesting a preference for fat storage over utilization. Transcription factors and coactivators were synchronously up-regulated during pre-migration and fall migration periods in the pectoralis but not the heart, suggesting these pathways are important in preparation for and during early migration to initiate changes to phenotypes that facilitate long distance migration.
Pulpotomy versus pulpectomy in the treatment of vital pulp exposure in primary incisors. A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Gadallah Lamia , Hamdy Mahmoud , El Bardissy Adel , Abou El Yazeed Mohamed
Published: June 2019

Background: Early childhood caries is a serious public health problem. When caries extend to involve the pulp, various forms of pulp treatment are tried to stimulate tooth repair. Although pulpotomy is the treatment of choice for vital primary tooth pulp exposure but there is a trend among many dentists to perform pulpectomies  in vital primary incisors. This study aimed to assess the effect of pulpotomy and pulpecomy in treatment of carious vital pulp exposure in primary incisors.

Methods: We searched Pubmed and Cochrane library databases up to March, 2018, OpenGrey for grey literature and ClinicalTrials.gov for ongoing trials. Randomized controlled trials were included and assessed with Cochrane risk of bias tool . Primary outcomes were clinical failure and radiological failure. The effect sizes were calculated as risk ratios with 95%CI using the Mantel-Haenszel method.

Results: Four trials were identified for qualitative assessment, only three trials were included in meta-analysis after exclusion of one trial due to its high risk of bias. The pooled results of the longest follow up period for clinical failure showed no statistically significant difference between pulpotomy and pulpectomy. The relative risk (RR) was e 2.69, 95% CI 0.76 to 9.58 for clinical failure. For radiographic failure, the sensitivity analysis showed RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.83 with a higher risk for radiographic failure in pulpectomy. The evidence was limited by the small number of trials included in the meta-analysis.

Conclusions: Both pulpotomy and pulpectomy can be used successfully in the treatment of vital pulp exposure in primary incisors. Further high quality studies comparing between pulpotomy and pulpectomy in primary incisors with longer follow up period till exfoliation time are needed.