bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Map-Matching Using Shortest Paths
Authors: Chambers Erin , Fasy Brittany Terese , Wang Yusu , Wenk Carola
Published: April 2020

We consider several variants of the
map-matching
problem, which seeks to find a path
Q
in graph
G
that has the smallest distance to a given trajectory
P
(which is likely not to be exactly on the graph). In a typical application setting,
P
models a noisy GPS trajectory from a person traveling on a road network, and the desired path
Q
should ideally correspond to the actual path in
G
that the person has traveled. Existing map-matching algorithms in the literature consider all possible paths in
G
as potential candidates for
Q
. We find solutions to the map-matching problem under different settings. In particular, we restrict the set of paths to shortest paths, or concatenations of shortest paths, in
G
. As a distance measure, we use the Fréchet distance, which is a suitable distance measure for curves since it takes the continuity of the curves into account.
Exploring Performance Characteristics of the Optane 3D Xpoint Storage Technology
Authors: Yang Jinfeng , Li Bingzhe , Lilja David J.
Published: April 2020

Intel’s Optane solid-state nonvolatile storage device is constructed using their new 3D Xpoint technology. Although it is claimed that this technology can deliver substantial performance improvements compared to NAND-based storage systems, its performance characteristics have not been well studied. In this study, intensive experiments and measurements have been carried out to extract the intrinsic performance characteristics of the Optane SSD, including the basic I/O performance behavior, advanced interleaving technology, performance consistency under a highly intensive I/O workload, influence of unaligned request size, elimination of write-driven garbage collection, read disturb issues, and tail latency problem. The performance is compared to that of a conventional NAND SSD to indicate the performance difference of the Optane SSD in each scenario. In addition, by using TPC-H, a read-intensive benchmark, a database system’s performance has been studied on our target storage devices to quantify the potential benefits of the Optane SSD to a real application. Finally, the performance impact of hybrid Optane and NAND SSD storage systems on a database application has been investigated.
Reverse Engineering of Use Case Realizations in UML
Authors: Bojic Dragan , Velasevic Dusan
Published: April 2020

We propose a novel technique for recovering certain elements of the UML model of a software system. These include relationships between use cases as well as class roles in collaborations that realize each use case, identifying common functionality and thus establishing a hierarchical view of the model. The technique is based on dynamic analysis of the system for the selected test cases that cover relevant use cases. The theory of formal concept analysis is applied to obtain classification of model elements, obtained by a static analysis of code, in terms of use case realiTations.
A Comparison of the Performance of Different Morphologies of LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 Using Isothermal Microcalorimetry, Ultra-High Precision Coulometry, and Long-Term Cycling
Authors: Logan E. R. , Hebecker Helena , Ma Xiaowei , Quinn Jason , HyeJeong Yang , Kumakura Shinichi , Paulsen Jens , Dahn J. R.
Published: April 2020

Ni-rich positive electrode materials for Li-ion batteries have the dual benefit of achieving high energy density while reducing the amount of Co used in cells. However, limitations in cycle life are still an issue for the widespread adoption of these materials. The benefit of using single crystal materials has been demonstrated for LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC532), LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 (NMC622), and now LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811). This work uses long-term cycling, ultra-high precision coulometry (UHPC), and isothermal microcalorimetry to investigate the effect of particle morphology on the lifetime of NMC811/graphite pouch cells. NMC811 with uncoated single crystal (SC) particles, coated polycrystalline (PC) particles, and a composite “bimodal” (BM) material are studied with electrolyte systems that have shown excellent cycle life in other NMC materials. Results from this work show that SC cells have improved cycle life in long-term cycling, as well as higher coulombic efficiency (CE) and lower charge endpoint capacity slippage as seen in the UHPC measurements. This correlates well with the isothermal microcalorimetry results, in which SC cells show the lowest parasitic heat flow over a range of upper-cutoff voltages. This study suggests excellent lifetimes can be achieved in single crystal NMC811/graphite cells with further electrolyte optimization.
Electrochemical Atomic Layer Etching of Ruthenium
Authors: Gong Yukun , Akolkar Rohan
Published: April 2020

A novel process for the electrochemical atomic layer etching (e-ALE) of ruthenium (Ru) is described. In this process, the surface Ru is electrochemically oxidized to form a monolayer of ruthenium (III) hydroxide—Ru(OH)3. The Ru(OH)3 monolayer is then selectively etched in an electrolyte containing chloride (Cl–) species. This etching process is selective towards Ru(OH)3 and does not attack the underlying Ru metal. Adsorbed Cl– on the Ru electrode is then cathodically desorbed before the sequence of Ru oxidation and Ru(OH)3 etching is repeated. This e-ALE sequence is shown to etch Ru at approximately 0.5 monolayer per cycle while practically avoiding any surface roughness amplification. The proposed Ru e-ALE process uses a single electrolyte which eliminates the need for electrode transfer or electrolyte switching between process steps. In this report, we employ electrochemical, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to gain insights into the various characteristics of the Ru e-ALE process.
Inquiry in oral communication: adapting oral examinations for teaching introductory physiology students to evaluate scientific research studies
Authors: St. James Andrew R. , Campbell Darlene
Published: April 2020

Generating an increasingly skilled and numerous workforces of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals is a national priority. Central to this goal is improving the ability of STEM graduates to apply scientific inquiry within oral communication, a necessary skill for STEM professionals. In this case study of an introductory biology course, we observed that providing explanatory feedback to students responding to inquiry-based questions in an oral examination suggests improvements in students’ abilities to critically analyze results, draw conclusions, and discuss the broader implications of data. We found students struggled with generating hypotheses and constraining discussions of scientific limitation and broader implications. We show that low-performing students especially benefit from the feedback intervention. The findings of this study are applicable to college and university instructors who are looking to incorporate methods for teaching students to use scientific inquiry effectively during oral communication, particularly those with access to teaching assistants.
Development of low-cost cardiac and skeletal muscle laboratory activities to teach physiology concepts and the scientific method
Authors: Judge Jennifer L. , Cazares Victor A. , Thompson Zoe , Skidmore Lynnda A.
Published: April 2020

Anatomy and Physiology courses taught at community colleges tend to focus laboratory hours primarily on anatomy as opposed to physiology. However, research demonstrates that, when instructors utilize active learning approaches (such as in laboratory settings) where students participate in their own learning, students have improved outcomes, such as higher test scores and better retention of material. To provide community college students with opportunities for active learning in physiology, we developed two laboratory exercises to engage students in cardiac and skeletal muscle physiology. We utilized low-cost SpikerBox devices to measure electrical activity during cardiac (electrocardiogram) and skeletal muscle (electromyogram) contraction. Laboratory activities were employed in Anatomy and Physiology courses at two community colleges in southeast Michigan. A 2-h laboratory period was structured with a 20-min slide presentation covering background material on the subject and experiments to examine the effects of environmental variables on nervous system control of cardiac and skeletal muscle contraction. Students were asked to provide hypotheses and proposed mechanisms, complete a results section, and provide conclusions for the experiments based on their results. Our laboratory exercises improved student learning in physiology and knowledge of the scientific method and were well-received by community college students enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology. Our results demonstrate that the use of a SpikerBox for cardiac and skeletal muscle physiology concepts is a low-cost and effective approach to integrate physiology activities into an Anatomy and Physiology course.
Prognostic Inflammasome‐Related Signature Construction in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma Based on a Pan‐Cancer Landscape
Authors: Zheng Tianyu , Wang Xindong , Yue Peipei , Han Tongtong , Hu Yue , Wang Biyao , Zhao Baohong , Zhang Xinwen , Yan Xu
Published: April 2020

Objective. To investigate the expression patterns and prognostic characteristics of inflammasome‐related genes (IRGs) across cancer types and develop a robust biomarker for the prognosis of KIRC. Methods. The differentially expressed IRGs and prognostic genes among 10 cancers were analyzed based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Subsequently, an IRGs risk signature was developed in KIRC. Its prognostic accuracy was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The independent predictive capacity was identified by stratification survival and multivariate Cox analyses. The gene ontology (GO) analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed to explore biological functions of the IRGs signature in KIRC. Results. The expression patterns and prognostic association of IRGs varied from different cancers, while KIRC showed the most abundant survival‐related dysregulated IRGs. The IRG signature for KIRC was able to independently predict survival, and the signature genes were mainly involved inimmune‐related processes. Conclusions. The pan‐cancer analysis provided a comprehensive landscape of IRGs across cancer types and identified a strong association between IRGs and the prognosis of KIRC. Further IRGs signature represented a reliable prognostic predictor for KIRC and verified the prognostic value of inflammasomes in KIRC, contributing to our understanding of therapies targeting inflammasomes for human cancers.
Non-Abelian Gravitoelectromagnetism and Applications at Finite Temperature
Authors: Santos A. F. , Ramos J. , Khanna Faqir C.
Published: April 2020

Studies about a formal analogy between the gravitational and the electromagnetic fields lead to the notion of Gravitoelectromagnetism (GEM) to describe gravitation. In fact, the GEM equations correspond to the weak-field approximation of the gravitation field. Here, a non-abelian extension of the GEM theory is considered. Using the Thermo Field Dynamics (TFD) formalism to introduce temperature effects, some interesting physical phenomena are investigated. The non-abelian GEM Stefan-Boltzmann law and the Casimir effect at zero and finite temperatures for this non-abelian field are calculated.
Relationship between Maternal Central Obesity and the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Yao Da , Chang Qing , Wu Qi-Jun , Gao Shan-Yan , Zhao Huan , Liu Ya-Shu , Jiang Yu-Ting , Zhao Yu-Hong
Published: April 2020

Objective. Nowadays, body mass index (BMI) is used to evaluate the risk stratification of obesity-related pregnancy complications in clinics. However, BMI cannot reflect fat distribution or the proportion of adipose to nonadipose tissue. The objective of this study is to evaluate the association of maternal first or second trimester central obesity with the risk of GDM. Research Design and Methods. We searched in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for English-language medical literature published up to 12 May 2019. Cohort studies were only included in the search. Abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio or body fat distribution were elected as measures of maternal central obesity, and all diagnostic criteria for GDM were accepted. The random effect meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between central obesity and the risk of GDM. Results. A total of 11 cohort studies with an overall sample size of 27,675 women and 2,226 patients with GDM were included in the analysis. The summary estimate of GDM risk in the central obesity pregnant women was 2.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.35–3.26) using the adjusted odds ratio (OR). The degree of heterogeneity among the studies was low (I2=14.4, P=0.307). The subgroup analyses showed that heterogeneity was affected by selected study characteristics (methods of exposure and trimesters). After adjusting for potential confounds, the OR of adjusted BMI was significant (OR=3.07, 95% CI: 2.35–4.00). Conclusions. Our findings indicate that the risk of GDM was positively associated with maternal central obesity.
A Noninvasive Assistant System in Diagnosis of Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Peulić Miodrag , Joković Miloš , Šušteršič Tijana , Peulić Aleksandar
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study is the application of pressure sensors in diagnostics and evaluation of the accuracy diagnostics of lumbar disc herniation at levels L4/L5 and L5/S1 using the aforementioned platform. The motivation behind the idea to apply the pressure measurement platform is the fact that the motor weakness of plantar and dorsal flexia of the feet is one of the absolute indications for the operative treatment of patients with lumbar disc herniation at the indicated levels. In patients, MRI diagnosis of the lumbosacral spine served as the ground truth in the diagnosis of herniation at L4/L5 and L5/S1 levels. The inclusive criteria for the study were the proven muscle weakness based on manual muscle tests performed prior to surgery, after seven days of surgery and after physical therapy. The results obtained with the manual muscular test were compared with the results obtained using our platform. The study included 33 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The results of the measurements indicate that the application of our platform with pressure sensors has the same sensitivity diagnostics as a manual muscle test, when done preoperatively and postoperatively. After physical therapy, pressure sensors show statistically significantly better sensitivity compared to the clinical manual muscle test. The obtained results are encouraging in the sense that the pressure platform can be an additional diagnostic method for lumbar disc herniation detection and can indicate the effectiveness of operative treatment and physical therapy after operation. The main advantage of the system is the cost; the whole system with platform and sensors is not expensive.
Identification of Manning’s Coefficient Using HEC-RAS Model: Upstream Al-Amarah Barrage
Authors: Abbas Sarmad A. , Al-Aboodi Ali H. , Ibrahim Husham T.
Published: April 2020

In understanding the hydraulic characteristics of river system flow, the hydraulic simulation models are essential tools. This study submits the results of the proposition of a hydraulic model in order to determine the roughness coefficient (Manning’s coefficient n) of the Tigris River along 3.5 km within the Maysan Governorate, south of Iraq. HEC-RAS software was the simulation tool used in this study. The HEC-RAS model was adopted, calibrated, and validated in adopting two sets of observed water levels. Graphical and statistical approaches were used for model calibration and verification. Results from this investigation showed that a value of Manning’s coefficient of 0.025 gave an acceptable agreement between observed and simulated values of water levels.
Vaping-Induced Lung Injury: A Case of Lipoid Pneumonia Associated with E-Cigarettes Containing Cannabis
Authors: Gay Bryno , Field Zachary , Patel Sachin , Alvarez Rodrigo Murillo , Nasser Wael , Madruga Mario , Carlan S. J.
Published: April 2020

Electronic cigarette, or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI), is a group of lung disorders associated with vaping and e-cigarette products that has previously been categorized as a diagnosis of exclusion and best described as an exogenous lipoid pneumonia or chemical pneumonitis. Here, we describe the onset of an exogenous cause of lipoid pneumonia in an otherwise healthy patient using cannabis-containing electronic cigarettes. We explore similarities in the clinical case, define a common clinical presentation with progression of disease, characteristic radiographic findings along with pathological diagnosis and management.
Birth Characteristics and Risk of Early-Onset Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Wiemels Joseph L. , Wang Rong , Feng Qianxi , Clark Cassandra J. , Amatruda James F. , Rubin Elyssa , Yee Amy C. , Morimoto Libby M. , Metayer Catherine , Ma Xiaomei
Published: April 2020

Background:

Synovial sarcoma is a rare cancer with peak incidence in the young adult period. Despite poor outcomes of this aggressive cancer, there is little epidemiologic research addressing its etiology.

Methods:

We collected birth characteristic data on synovial sarcoma cases born during 1978–2015 and diagnosed during 1988–2015 in California (n = 244), and 12,200 controls frequency-matched on year of birth. We also constructed a dataset of cancer cases in siblings of sarcoma subjects to assess familial risk.

Results:

In multivariable logistic regression analyses, synovial sarcoma was more frequent in Hispanics compared with non-Hispanic whites [OR, 1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06–2.08]. Higher birth weight was a risk factor in Hispanics; each 500 g increase in birth weight was associated with a 22% increase in disease risk (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.00–1.48). Also, a strong role for birth order was suggested, with highest risk for the first born (second child compared with first: OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.44–0.84; third or later compared with first: OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.36–0.77). Siblings of patients with synovial sarcoma did not display elevated cancer incidence, suggesting the low likelihood that strong familial predisposition alleles play a significant role in this disease.

Conclusions:

The associations with birth weight and birth order suggest that nutritional, developmental, and environmental factors may play a role in the etiology of synovial sarcoma.

Impact:

Further epidemiologic research on synovial sarcoma should evaluate epigenetic and developmental mechanisms and the formation of the archetypical t(X;18) translocation that defines this disease.
Dual Targeting of CDK4/6 and BCL2 Pathways Augments Tumor Response in Estrogen Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Whittle James R. , Vaillant François , Surgenor Elliot , Policheni Antonia N. , Giner Göknur , Capaldo Bianca D. , Chen Huei-Rong , Liu He K. , Dekkers Johanna F. , Sachs Norman , Clevers Hans , Fellowes Andrew , Green Thomas , Xu Huiling , Fox Stephen B. , Herold Marco J. , Smyth Gordon K. , Gray Daniel H.D. , Visvader Jane E. , Lindeman Geoffrey J.
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

Although cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors significantly extend tumor response in patients with metastatic estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer, relapse is almost inevitable. This may, in part, reflect the failure of CDK4/6 inhibitors to induce apoptotic cell death. We therefore evaluated combination therapy with ABT-199 (venetoclax), a potent and selective BCL2 inhibitor.

Experimental Design:

BCL2 family member expression was assessed following treatment with endocrine therapy and the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib. Functional assays were used to determine the impact of adding ABT-199 to fulvestrant and palbociclib in ER+ breast cancer cell lines, patient-derived organoid (PDO), and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. A syngeneic ER+ mouse mammary tumor model was used to study the effect of combination therapy on the immune system.

Results:

Triple therapy was well tolerated and produced a superior and more durable tumor response compared with single or doublet therapy. This was associated with marked apoptosis, including of senescent cells, indicative of senolysis. Unexpectedly, ABT-199 resulted in Rb dephosphorylation and reduced G1–S cyclins, most notably at high doses, thereby intensifying the fulvestrant/palbociclib–induced cell-cycle arrest. Interestingly, a CRISPR/Cas9 screen suggested that ABT-199 could mitigate loss of Rb (and potentially other mechanisms of acquired resistance) to palbociclib. ABT-199 did not abrogate the favorable immunomodulatory effects of palbociclib in a syngeneic ER+ mammary tumor model and extended tumor response when combined with anti-PD1 therapy.

Conclusions:

This study illustrates the potential for targeting BCL2 in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors and supports investigation of combination therapy in ER+ breast cancer.
The NF-κB Pathway Promotes Tamoxifen Tolerance and Disease Recurrence in Estrogen Receptor–Positive Breast Cancers
Authors: Kastrati Irida , Joosten Stacey E. P. , Semina Svetlana E. , Alejo Luis H. , Brovkovych Svitlana D. , Stender Joshua D. , Horlings Hugo M. , Kok Marleen , Alarid Elaine T. , Greene Geoffrey L. , Linn Sabine C. , Zwart Wilbert , Frasor Jonna
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study was to identify critical pathways promoting survival of tamoxifen-tolerant, estrogen receptor α positive (ER+) breast cancer cells, which contribute to therapy resistance and disease recurrence. Gene expression profiling and pathway analysis were performed in ER+ breast tumors of patients before and after neoadjuvant tamoxifen treatment and demonstrated activation of the NF-κB pathway and an enrichment of epithelial-to mesenchymal transition (EMT)/stemness features. Exposure of ER+ breast cancer cell lines to tamoxifen, in vitro and in vivo, gives rise to a tamoxifen-tolerant population with similar NF-κB activity and EMT/stemness characteristics. Small-molecule inhibitors and CRISPR/Cas9 knockout were used to assess the role of the NF-κB pathway and demonstrated that survival of tamoxifen-tolerant cells requires NF-κB activity. Moreover, this pathway was essential for tumor recurrence following tamoxifen withdrawal. These findings establish that elevated NF-κB activity is observed in breast cancer cell lines under selective pressure with tamoxifen in vitro and in vivo, as well as in patient tumors treated with neoadjuvant tamoxifen therapy. This pathway is essential for survival and regrowth of tamoxifen-tolerant cells, and, as such, NF-κB inhibition offers a promising approach to prevent recurrence of ER+ tumors following tamoxifen exposure.

Implications:

Understanding initial changes that enable survival of tamoxifen-tolerant cells, as mediated by NF-κB pathway, may translate into therapeutic interventions to prevent resistance and relapse, which remain major causes of breast cancer lethality.
Compliance with Guidelines and Efficacy of Heart Rate Monitoring during Newborn Resuscitation: A Prospective Video Study
Authors: Bjorland Peder Aleksander , Ersdal Hege Langli , Øymar Knut , Rettedal Siren Irene
Published: April 2020

Objective: Newborn resuscitation guidelines recommend initial assessment of heart rate (HR) and initiation of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) within 60 s after birth in non-breathing newborns. Pulse oximeter (PO) and electrocardiogram (ECG) are suggested methods for continuous HR monitoring during resuscitation. Our aim was to evaluate compliance with guidelines and the efficacy of PO versus ECG monitoring in real-life newborn resuscitations. Methods: In this prospective observational study, we video recorded resuscitations of newborns ≥34 weeks of gestation receiving PPV at birth. Results: 104 resuscitations were analysed. Median (IQR) time from birth to arrival at the resuscitation bay was 48 (22–68) s (n = 62), to initial HR assessment 70 (47–118) s (n = 61), and to initiation of PPV 78 (42–118) s (n = 62). Initial HR assessment (stethoscope or palpation) and initiation of PPV were achieved within 60 s for 35% of the resuscitated newborns. Time to initial HR assessment and initiating PPV was significantly longer following vaginal deliveries than caesarean sections: 84 (70–139) versus 44 (30–66) s (p < 0.001) and 93 (73–139) versus 38 (30–66) s (p < 0.001). Time from birth and sensor application to provision of a reliable HR signal from PO versus ECG was 348 (217–524) (n = 42) versus 174 (105–277) s (n = 30) (p < 0.001) and 199 (77–352) (n = 65) versus 16 (11–22) s (n = 52) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Initial HR assessment and initiation of PPV were achieved within 60 s after birth in only 1/3 of newborn resuscitations. When applied for continuous HR monitoring, ECG was superior to PO in time to achieve reliable HR signals in real-life resuscitations.
O desenvolvimento de capacidades linguageiras: análise de sequência didática do gênero artigo de opinião no Ensino Médio Noturno
Authors: Silva Rosalina Dantas da , Gonçalves Adair Vieira
Published: April 2020

Esta pesquisa está inserida no campo aplicado dos estudos da linguagem e tem como objetivo geral avaliar como uma sequência didática foi recontextualizada numa turma do terceiro ano noturno do Ensino Médio de uma escola pública estadual localizada em Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul. A sequência didática foi produzida colaborativamente por duas professoras: uma que atuou como colaboradora e a outra como pesquisadora. Os objetivos específicos desta pesquisa são: analisar a sequência didática no que se refere à distribuição das capacidades de linguagem e analisar o desenvolvimento das capacidades linguageiras dos alunos em relação à escrita do gênero artigo de opinião, depois da didatização da sequência didática, por meio das produções iniciais e finais. A pesquisa está embasada nos pressupostos téorico-metodológicos do interacionismo sociodiscursivo (Bronckart, 2006; 2007), consubstanciada nas teorias advindas da escola genebrina (Schneuwly; Dolz; Noverraz, 2004). Metodologicamente, trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, de cunho documental. Constituem o corpus a sequência didática, produções iniciais e finais dos alunos. Os resultados finais, definidos a partir da avaliação da sequência didática e das produções dos alunos, mostram que os alunos avançaram significativamente na capacidade linguístico-discursiva, mas apenas relativamente nas capacidades de ação e discursiva.
Long-term effects of bariatric surgery on cardiovascular risk factors in Singapore
Authors: Panday VB , Shabbir A , Kuntjoro I , Khoo EYH , So JBY , Poh KK
Published: April 2020

INTRODUCTION Bariatric surgery is considered an effective treatment for weight loss and for improving the metabolic profile of patients with obesity. Obesity-related comorbidities such as hyperlipidaemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) are significant cardiovascular risk factors. Additionally, prospective clinical trials have shown that statins increase the risk of development of DM, and many patients with obesity are on statins. We retrospectively examined the effect of bariatric surgery on lipid profile, DM control and weight loss at the five-year follow-up. METHODS In total, 104 patients undergoing bariatric surgery from 2008 to 2012 were retrospectively studied. 36 patients were on preoperative statins. Their lipid profile, DM control and weight loss were examined at the one-year and five-year follow-ups. RESULTS Both high-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels showed significant improvement at the one-year and five-year follow-ups (p = 0.01). Total cholesterol showed significant improvement at the one-year follow-up (−0.30 mmol/dL, p = 0.0338); however, better control was not sustained at the five-year follow-up (−0.15 mmol/dL, p = 0.133). Low-density lipoprotein did not show any considerable improvement at the one- and five-year follow-ups (−0.27 mmol/dL, p = 0.150 and −0.24 mmol/dL, p = 0.138, respectively). A statistically significant improvement in DM control was observed in these patients and in those on preoperative statins. Weight loss was sustained at one and five years. CONCLUSION Bariatric surgery does not confer a uniform improvement in lipid profile in the long term. It does, however, induce efficient weight loss and improvement in diabetic profile, even in patients on preoperative statins.
Management of HIV-positive pregnant women: a Singapore experience
Authors: Loh M , Thoon KC , Mathur M , Kathirvel R
Published: April 2020

INTRODUCTION Perinatal transmission remains one of the important causes of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Over the years, with better knowledge and awareness of HIV infection, the perinatal transmission rate has been significantly reduced. We previously reported on the pregnancy outcomes of HIV-positive mothers from 1997 to 2007 in our institution. This article aimed to review the standards of care of HIV-positive pregnant women since then. METHODS A retrospective study reviewed 84 HIV-positive women who delivered in a tertiary centre from January 2008 to December 2015. Patient demographics and antenatal, intrapartum, postnatal and immediate neonatal data were analysed. RESULTS A total of 97 deliveries with 98 neonates were recorded; 12 women delivered more than once, and there was one set of twins. The mean maternal age at diagnosis of HIV infection was 27.8 years. Of the study population, 63.1% of women were non-Singaporeans. 56 women were known to have HIV infection on presentation and 90.7% were on antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy. 88.7% of the women received intrapartum intravenous zidovudine, and 93.1% of women with detectable and 58.7% with undetectable viral load underwent Caesarean sections. All neonates were HIV-negative. CONCLUSION The high standards of care for HIV-positive women have successfully reduced our perinatal transmission rate to zero.
Conflicting Outlooks?
Authors: Bruun Ole
Published: April 2020

Despite years of international criticism and domestic policy making, China still plays a key role in illegal wildlife trafficking. Although the country has begun a transition from the mindless exploitation of nature towards an envisioned Ecological Civilisation, basic tenets in traditional medicine and popular cosmology continue to have highly adverse ecological consequences, both at home and abroad. Evaluating recent trends in international wildlife trade, Chinese policy making, and popular cosmology in China, this article aims to throw light on why wildlife substances continue to play such important role in the modern society, as well as to reflect on the preconditions for broader value change. The article goes on to argue that in order to get a better understanding on how nature and wildlife are viewed in a Chinese context, one is compelled to reflect not only on the impact of popular cosmology but also of authoritarian governance on conservation.
Auferstehung des Fleisches in der Epistula Apostolorum
Authors: Kiel Nikolai
Published: April 2020

The apocryphal scripture “Epistula Apostolorum” represents an important stage in the second century development of the concept regarding the resurrection of the flesh. For the first time, in this text, the Lord’s resurrected body appears with the closely related promise of resurrection for the faithful, which is placed at the center of the discussion in the post-apostolic age. Thus, the crucial question arises: How is the idea of the resurrection of the flesh represented in the Epistula Apostolorum? The epistle provides the following answer: The resurrected receive an everlasting garment that no longer participates in the material creation. Nevertheless, the personality of those living on earth is preserved through the resurrection of the flesh. They do not exchange their identity as a result of the eschatological event; rather they maintain their former earthly personhood, but will exist in a glorified state of the resurrected flesh.
De l’exégèse à la polémique : la notion d’ἀκολουθία dans les tomes 1-2 du Contre Celse d’Origène
Authors: Piscini Gianluca
Published: April 2020

This paper studies the links between exegesis and polemic in Origen, focussing on the exegetical and polemical use of ἀκολουθία in two contemporary works: Commentary on Matthew and Against Celsus. After a short survey of the different meanings of the word ἀκολουθία, we will see how the pagan polemicist uses this notion. Then we will study Origen’s answer in a more thorough fashion. We will show that, as in the Commentary on Matthew, Origen uses the notion of ἀκολουθία to re-establish the dignity of the Gospels; but he also criticizes the inability of Celsus to correctly understand a text – in other words, his “lack of ἀκολουθία”. In the end, it will be clear that in Origen, the notion of ἀκολουθία is crucial both in exegesis and in polemics, and that it helps us to better understand the unity of his thought and of his works.
Individual Welfare Index: a Complement of GDP per Capita for Comparing Individual Welfare of Urban and Rural Areas
Authors: Mnabe Anneth Jonathan , Msengwa Amina Suleiman , Rugaimukamu Deogratias Matayo Bengesi
Published: April 2020

The idea of developing an Individual Welfare Index (IWI) emanated from the criticisms raised against using Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita to compare living standards of urban and rural areas. There is evidence that good measures of welfare have to encompass both objective and subjective indicators where little has been empirically known. The specific objective of this paper was to propose a framework for developing an IWI that combines both subjective and objective aspects in an attempt to provide a satisfactory measure of individual welfare. The data were collected from 40 respondents aged 18–60 years within the randomly selected 20 households (i.e., two respondents in a household) using a structured questionnaire. The results showed that, the framework of welfare components were reliable to develop the IWI (Cronbach-Alpha ≥ 0.7) and that the computed IWI were 55.9 and 51.0 in the regions with the highest (about 3,000,000 TZS) and lowest (about 1,000,000 TZS) GDP per capita, respectively. It is concluded that, a satisfactory measure of welfare when comparing welfare performances in urban and rural areas, should include both objective and subjective welfare measures.
Biometric Capture
Authors: Fubara-Manuel Irene
Published: April 2020

The current system of the surveillance of migrants relies on biometric capture. To be captured is to be codified into machine-readable representations. This paper merges technological codifications with political discourse to explore the disproportionate capturing of black migrants in the UK. Using the historical treatment of Nigerian migrants in the UK as an illustration, this paper interrogates how contemporary technologies are used to codify and confine black migrants. This paper explores works from digital artists – Keith Piper and Joy Buolamwini – to address this codification of blackness using biometric technology. It calls for new technological cultures of coding that centre the disruption of violent systems of capture. Failure is defined as this disruption of hegemonic systems of codification and capture that aim to subjugate black communities. This paper stresses that it is only when technologies of capture fail that black and migrant communities can truly experience digital freedom.
Etrocorema yunnanensis sp. nov., a new species of the tropical genus Etrocorema (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from China
Authors: CHEN ZHI-TENG
Published: April 2020

Etrocorema yunnanensis sp. nov., a new species of Etrocorema Klapálek, 1909 is described and illustrated based on male, female and eggs from Yunnan Province of southwestern China. Morphological differences between the new species and congeners are discussed.
Two new monobasic thrips genera for a gall-inducing species and its kleptoparasite (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripinae)
Authors: MOUND LAURENCE A. , WELLS ALICE
Published: April 2020

Drypetothrips korykis gen. et sp.n. is described as inducing leaf-margin galls on a small tree in Australia, Drypetes deplanchei [Putranjivaceae]. This thrips is similar in appearance to the smaller species of the genus Kladothrips that induce galls on Acacia species. The galls are invaded by a phytophagous kleptoparasitic thrips, Pharothrips hynnis gen. et sp.n., females of which have a forked plough-like structure protruding ventrally on the frons that is unique amongst Thysanoptera.
Observations of Submesoscale Variability and Frontal Subduction within the Mesoscale Eddy Field of the Tasman Sea
Authors: Archer Matthew , Schaeffer Amandine , Keating Shane , Roughan Moninya , Holmes Ryan , Siegelman Lia
Published: April 2020

Submesoscale lenses of water with anomalous hydrographic properties have previously been observed in the East Australian Current (EAC) system, embedded within the thermocline of mesoscale anticyclonic eddies. The waters within these lenses have high oxygen content and temperature–salinity properties that signify a surface origin. However, it is not known how these lenses form. This study presents field observations that provide insight into a possible generation mechanism via subduction at upper-ocean fronts. High-resolution hydrographic and velocity measurements of submesoscale activity were taken across a front between a mesoscale eddy dipole downstream of the EAC separation point. The front had O(1) Rossby number, strong vertical shear, and flow conducive to symmetric instability. Frontogenesis was measured in conjunction with subduction of an anticyclonic water parcel, indicative of intrathermocline eddy formation. Twenty-five years of satellite imagery reveals the existence of strong mesoscale strain coupled with strong temperature fronts in this region and indicates the conditions that led to frontal subduction observed here are a persistent feature. These processes impact the vertical export of tracers from the surface and dissipation of mesoscale kinetic energy, implicating their importance for understanding regional ocean circulation and biological productivity.
The influence of high temperature treatment on morphology and performance of superfine glass fiber felts
Authors: Wang Feiyan , Yu Jianyong , Liang Xunmei , Lu Shide , Zhao Chunfeng , Liu Zhaolin , Liu Lifang
Published: April 2020

This article presents an investigation on effects of heat treatments in the range 400–700℃ on morphology, fractal dimension, pore size distribution, and air permeability of superfine glass fiber felts. During the heat treatments, the released residual stress, thermal decomposition, and thermal contraction make fibers bend to different degrees, corresponding with different fractal dimensions. The felt pores are formed by the random interlacing of fibers, varying with the different bending degree of fibers, which results in an influence on the air permeability of the felt. The results show that there was no visible change in the morphology of the heated felt at 400–550℃. However, the treatment at 600℃ could cause the breakage of some fibers, and above 650℃ the damage of felts. The fractal dimension of heated felt decreased at 400 and 450℃, but then increased above 500℃. The lowest fractal dimension was 1.8827 at 450℃, and the highest was 1.9666 at 600℃. Besides, the pores tend to distribute in a smaller size and a narrower scale under high temperatures, resulting in a decrease in the air permeability. However, the air permeability had the same variation trend with fractal dimension at 400 and 450℃, but opposite above 500℃. The relationship among them was verified by comparing the experimental and theoretical results. At 600℃, the mean pore size and the air permeability reduced by 16% and 31%, respectively.
Synthesis and properties of colorless polyamide films with high thermal resistance and dimensional stability
Authors: Song Guangliang , Wang Xiaoyu , Chen Chao
Published: April 2020

Polyamides (PAs) based on terephthaloyl chloride and a series of aromatic diamines were synthesized; PA films were prepared by solution casting without mechanical stretching to produce high-performance films with good optical transparency and dimensional stability. The PA films displayed high heat resistance with glass transition temperatures ( Tg) of 342–399°C. Good mechanical properties were obtained with tensile modulus and strength up to 5.38 GPa and 195.4 MPa, respectively. Coefficient of thermal expansion of the as-cast PA films achieved to an ultralow value of 8.3 ppm °C−1 and could be tailored in a wide range as a function of the macromolecular composition. The series of PA films showed a transparent and colorless feature, with the cutoff wavelength in the range of 355–365 nm. The data were discussed from the perspective of structure–property relationship, may give helpful knowledge for the topic of PA chemistry, and this method could provide an alternative for the production of high-performance colorless polymer films.
The Relationship Between Perception of Corporate Reputation and Turnover Intention: Results from Turkey
Authors: Deniz Serkan
Published: April 2020

In today’s competitive environment, organisations are interested in intangible assets in order to survive, differentiate and gain competitive advantage. One of these intangible assets is corporate reputation, which has a great importance for businesses due to its capacity to influence all stakeholders. Corporate reputation can shape employees’ behaviour and attitudes, who are internal stakeholders. In this study, it is aimed to examine the relationship between private hospital employees’ perception of corporate reputation and their turnover intention. The research was performed between May 2018 and July 2018, and data were collected from employees of a private hospital operating in Turkey. Survey methodology was used to collect data. As a result of the study, it was found that employees’ perception of corporate reputation is high, and their turnover intention level is low. Another finding of the study is that there is a statistically significant, moderate and negative relationship between perception of corporate reputation and turnover intention. When the influence of corporate reputation on employees’ attitudes and behaviours is taken into account, it is recommended that managers should focus on practices that increase employees’ perception of corporate reputation.
Scientific and subversive: The two faces of the fourth era of political campaigning
Authors: Roemmele Andrea , Gibson Rachel
Published: April 2020

This article sets out the case that democracies are now entering a fourth phase of “data-driven” political campaigning. Building on the existing campaigns literature, we identify several key shifts in practice that define the new phase, namely: (1) an organizational and strategic dependency on digital technology and “big data,” (2) a reliance on networked communication, (3) the individualized micro-targeting of campaign messages, and (4) the internationalization of the campaign sphere. Departing from prior studies, we also argue that the new phase is distinguished, by a bifurcation, into two variants—the scientific and the subversive. While sharing a common core, these two modes differ, in that the former retains a commitment to the normative goals of campaigning, that is, to mobilize and inform voters, while the latter explicitly rejects and subverts these aims, focusing instead on demobilization and the spread of misinformation. Both are presented as abstract or “ideal” types, although we do point out how features of each have appeared in recent election campaigns by mainstream and populist parties. We conclude by discussing the implications of these trends for the long-term future health of democracy.
The unedited public sphere
Authors: Bimber Bruce , Gil de Zúñiga Homero
Published: April 2020

The health of democratic public spheres is challenged by the circulation of falsehoods. These epistemic problems are connected to social media and they raise a classic problem of how to understand the role of technology in political developments. We discuss three sets of technological affordances of social media that facilitate the spread of false beliefs: obscuring the provenance of information, facilitating deception about authorship, and providing for manipulation of social signals. We argue that these do not make social media a “cause” of problems with falsehoods, but explanations of epistemic problems should account for social media to understand the timing and widespread occurrence of epistemic problems. We argue that “the marketplace of ideas” cannot be adequate as a remedy for these problems, which require epistemic editing by the press.
Comparison of neurocognitive changes among newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients with and without dysglycaemia
Authors: Yorke Ernest , Boima Vincent , Dey Ida Dzifa , Ganu Vincent , Nkornu Norah , Acquaye Kelvin Samuel , Mate-Kole C. Charles
Published: April 2020

Background

Diabetes often occurs together with tuberculosis (TB) and both may affect each other negatively. Diabetes may be associated with neurocognitive dysfunctioning in affected patients and may negatively impact treatment adherence and outcomes. This study compared the neurocognitive status between newly diagnosed smear positive tuberculosis patients with dysglycaemia and those with normoglycaemia.

Methods

The current study was a cross-sectional study involving one hundred and forty-six (146) newly diagnosed smear positive TB patients. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed and the results were categorized as either normoglycaemia, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or diabetes.

Neurocognitive functioning among study participants was assessed at the time of TB diagnosis using Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ), Montreal Cognitive Assessment tool (MoCA), California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT), Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and the Spitzer Quality of Life Index (QLI).

Results

The mean age of the participants (n = 146) was 38.7 years with 78.8% being males and 21.2% females. Using the fasting blood glucose test, the prevalence of impaired fasting glucose and diabetes were 5.5 and 3.4% respectively, both representing a total of 13 out of the 146 participants; whilst the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes using 2-h post-glucose values were 28.8 and 11.6% respectively, both representing a total of 59 out of the 146 participants.

There were no significant differences in the mean scores on the neurocognitive measures between the dysglaycaemia and normoglycamic groups using fasting plasma glucose (FPG). However, there were significant differences in the mean scores between the dysglycaemia and normal groups using 2-h postprandial (2HPP) glucose values on Phobic Anxiety (Normal, Mean = 0.38 ± 0.603; dysglycaemia, Mean = 0.23 ± 0.356;p = 0.045), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores (17.26 ± 5.981 vs. 15.04 ± 5.834,p = 0.037).

Conclusion

Newly diagnosed smear positive patients with dysglycaemia were associated with significantly lower mean cognitive scores and scores on phobic anxiety than those with normoglyacaemia. The latter finding must be further explored.