bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corticosteroid Exposure in the Treatment of Severe COPD Exacerbations
Authors: George Jamie , Ganoff Michelle , Lipari Melissa
Published: September 2020

Background:

Recent literature and guidelines support treatment of severe acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) with prednisone 40 mg (or equivalent) for 5 days.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether systemic corticosteroids were being prescribed at the appropriate dose and duration in the treatment of severe AECOPD at a large academic medical institution.

Methods:

This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study conducted to evaluate corticosteroid prescribing patterns for adults admitted for severe AECOPD from March to May 2019 at a large academic medical institution. Appropriate therapy was defined as: prednisone 40 mg (or equivalent) for 5 days. The primary outcome was to determine the frequency of appropriate dose and duration. The secondary outcomes were to identify the frequency of appropriate dose or duration, compare the prevalence of adverse effects, such as new/worsening hyperglycemia or hypertension, and compare 30- and 90-day readmission rates.

Results:

Of the 190 patients included, 16 (8.4%) had an appropriate duration and 8 (4.2%) an appropriate dose. Only 4 patients (2.1%) had both appropriate corticosteroid dose and duration. New/worsening hyperglycemia occurred in 96 (50.5%), and hypertension developed in 13 (6.8%). Thirty-day readmission occurred in 46 (24.2%) and 90-day readmission in 78 (41.1%). These were more likely in those without appropriate dose and duration.

Conclusion:

Systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of severe AECOPD are not prescribed in accordance with evidence-based recommendations at this institution. This might result in a greater incidence of adverse effects and readmissions.
The politics of fiscal federalism: Building a stronger decentralization theorem
Authors: Ponce-Rodríguez Raúl A. , Hankla Charles R. , Martinez-Vazquez Jorge , Heredia-Ortiz Eunice
Published: September 2020

We explore how party structures can condition the benefits of decentralization in modern democracies. In particular, we study the interaction of two political institutions: democratic (de)centralization (whether a country has fiscally autonomous and elected local governments) and party (non)integration (whether power over local party leaders flows upwards through party institutions, which we model using control over candidate selection). We incorporate these institutions into our strong decentralization theorem, which expands on Oates (1972) to examine when the decentralized provision of public services will dominate centralized provision even in the presence of inter-jurisdictional spillovers. Our findings suggest that, when externalities are present, democratic decentralization will be beneficial only when parties are integrated. In countries with non-integrated parties, we find that the participation rules of primaries have implications for the expected gains from democratic decentralization. Under blanket primaries, Oates’ conventional decentralization theorem holds but our strong decentralization theorem does not. By contrast, when primaries are closed, not even Oates’ conventional decentralization theorem holds.
Gas explosion-induced acute blast lung injury assessment and biomarker identification by a LC-MS-based serum metabolomics analysis
Authors: Dong X , Yao S , Wu W , Cao J , Sun L , Li H , Ren H , Ren W
Published: September 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the histopathological effect of gas explosion on rats, and to explore the metabolic alterations associated with gas explosion-induced acute blast lung injury (ABLI) in real roadway environment using metabolomics analyses. All rats were exposed to the gas explosion source at different distance points (160 m and 240 m) except the control group. Respiratory function indexes were monitored and lung tissue analysis was performed to correlate histopathological effect to serum metabolomics. Their sera samples were collected to measure the metabolic alterations by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). HE staining in lung showed that the gas explosion caused obvious inflammatory pulmonary injury, which was consistent with respiratory function monitoring results and the serum metabolomics analysis results. The metabolomics identified 9 significantly metabolites different between the control- and ABLI rats. 2-aminoadipic acid, L-methionine, L-alanine, L-lysine, L-threonine, cholic acid and L-histidine were significantly increased in the exposed groups. Citric acid and aconitic acid were significantly decreased after exposure. Pathway analyses identified 8 perturbed metabolic pathways, which provided novel potential mechanisms for the gas explosion-induced ABLI. Therefore, metabolomics analysis identified both known and unknown alterations in circulating biomarkers, adding an integral mechanistic insight into the gas explosion-induced ABLI in real roadway environment.
Performance of VC/PE-backed IPOs: New Insights from India
Authors: Deb Soumya G. , Banerjee Pradip
Published: September 2020

This article explores long-term equity and operating performance of Indian firms issuing initial public offerings (IPOs) backed by venture capital/private equity (VC/PE) funding. Using data for 173 IPOs backed by VC/PE funding during 2000–2016, the article shows that equity market performance of VC/PE-backed IPOs is unimpressive post issue, compared to their peers. This is not only due to market perception but also associated with a declining operating performance. However, information asymmetry, mispricing and ‘timing the market’ by issuing firms do not seem to be the reasons for such long-term underperformance. We argue that it may be a case of too much money chasing too few winners for Indian IPOs and individual rent-seeking activities by managers. The observation raises the question of effectiveness of the monitoring role of venture capitalists or PE funders post the IPO in an Indian context. This is substantiated by our additional finding that sustained monitoring and hand-holding by venture capitalists and PE funders post the IPO cause an improvement in performance. The findings of this study can have significant implications for all stakeholders, particularly common investors in the Indian equity market.
Internationalization as Patterns of Change Over Time: A Configurational Analysis
Authors: Moreno-Menéndez Ana M. , Casillas José C. , Agustí María
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this article is to show that internationalization can be studied and described as different dynamic patterns in relation to the international evolution of firms by following a process approach. The article adopts a process approach jointly with a configuration-oriented perspective, to evaluate the strategy as a group of decisions instead of isolated and unrelated variables. Besides, a dynamic approach is incorporated in this study. For achieving the objective, we have studied the changes occurring in some of the variables involved in the internationalization process along a 4-year period (2002–2006). By means of a cluster analysis of the dynamic variables, seven different groups were identified and their external validity studied. The results obtained allow us to pose that the internationalization process cannot be generalized. A complex index and the consideration of evolution over time is a must. Besides, these patterns have been associated to different international status or profiles and to demographic variables, and show the existence of certain relationships between the internationalization status at a certain moment (static perspective) and its latter evolution (dynamic perspective). One of the key implications is the importance of understanding the internationalization process as a complex and interrelated decision. The fingerprints in such process should not be considered as isolated facts but as a part of a greater position. Despite the use of a similar methodology in other studies, this article is original in the introduction of the time (speed) approach to the configurational analysis of the internationalization process.
The High Court in Pell v The Queen: An ‘unreasonable’ review of the jury’s decision
Authors: Byrne Greg
Published: September 2020

In the recent case of Pell v The Queen, the High Court quashed the jury’s verdict and reversed the decision of the Court of Appeal (majority) in Victoria. This article analyses the High Court’s approach to determining the facts that were open to the jury and to determining whether the jury erred in finding Cardinal Pell guilty. The High Court’s decision raises important issues about the jury as Australia’s constitutional tribunal for deciding issues of fact, how appellate courts review a jury’s verdict, how juries and appellate courts make findings of fact, and the challenges of finding facts in historical sexual abuse cases.
Transition From Hospital to Home Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Feasibility Study for “Rooming in”
Authors: Gladbach Cecilia , Patton Lindsey J. , Xu Xiaohan , Aquino Victor
Published: September 2020

Background: The experience of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) on both the patients and their caregivers is complex and challenging during hospitalization and post discharge. Complex patient populations require heightened attention on discharge practices to ensure that they are prepared for home regimens. “Rooming in” is a standardized intervention implemented prior to discharge that allows patients and caregivers to assume post discharge care with the support of staff. Other complex patient populations have reported positive outcomes related to “rooming in.” Aims: The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of a standardized “rooming in” intervention for discharge of pediatric HSCT patients. An additional aim was to describe the quality of discharge teaching, readiness for hospital discharge, and postdischarge coping difficulty in a cohort of HSCT patients using validated questionnaires. Method: Data were collected via medical chart review. A prospective cohort completed validated study questionnaires at discharge and 30 days postdischarge. Results: All caregivers of post-HSCT patients were able to complete the “rooming in” intervention. There was no statistically significant difference for length of stay between the retrospective and prospective cohorts. Caregivers enrolled on the study rated the Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale–Parent Form high ( Mdn = 165). Conclusion: We conclude that “rooming in” is a feasible discharge intervention for caregivers of pediatric HSCT patients.
R&D roadmap for process robotization driven to the digital transformation of the industry 4.0
Authors: Barbosa Gustavo Franco , Shiki Sidney Bruce , da Silva Iris Bento
Published: September 2020

This paper lays emphasis on a proposal of a tailor-made roadmap that manages the knowledge related to automation skills to be applied during the concurrent engineering phase. The approach of this Research and Development (R&D) roadmap is a particular guideline in a structured form that uses the concepts of Plan-Do–Check–Act (PDCA) method integrated to other quality tools and know-how in robotization, for management of this specific knowledge. This research work aims to guide the staff (project managers, engineers and technicians) who work multidisciplinary in concurrent engineering environment about the robot’s implementation steps and significant tips related to the deployment phases that can be beneficial when this proposed roadmap is applied. Also, it was developed to assist the robot’s installation and their validation on shop floor, aiming the best class of industrial processes regarding the automation. The main contribution and novelty of this paper is to propose a R&D roadmap that drives and assists the multidisciplinary work teams since the identification of robotization opportunities till the assurance of quality requirements established for the concerned process, in addition to a continuous improvement program to carry it on. Besides that, this work provides a high relevance in terms of knowledge management related to robotization expertise, spread of practical skills in concurrent engineering context and an unprecedented innovative contribution at science frontier.
Protein C Pathway, Inflammation, and Pump Thrombosis in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Walenga Jeanine M. , Torres Tania A. , Jeske Walter P. , Schwartz Jeffrey , Escalante Vicki , Newman Joshua D. , Bakhos Mamdouh
Published: September 2020

Use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for management of advanced heart failure is becoming increasingly common; however, device associated thrombosis remains an important cause of mortality in this patient population. We hypothesize that inflammation in LVAD implanted patients dysregulates the protein C pathway, creating a hypercoagulable state leading to thrombosis. Plasma samples from 22 patients implanted with the Thoratec HeartMate II LVAD were analyzed by commercial ELISAs. Retrospective sample selection included those collected 1-3 months prior to and within 1 month after a thrombotic or bleeding event. Unrelated to warfarin dosing, total protein S and free protein S ( p = 0.033) levels were 20% lower in patients with LVAD-thrombosis than in patients with LVAD-bleeding. Levels of protein C, soluble endothelial cell protein C receptor, and soluble thrombomodulin were similar in both groups before and after the event. Compared to normal, C-reactive protein levels were 25-fold elevated in LVAD-thrombosis patients but only 9-fold elevated in LVAD-bleeding patients. This study suggests that protein S, influenced by the inflammatory state, is a gatekeeper for the function of protein C in patients with LVAD-associated thrombosis.
A New Media Literacy: Using Film Theory for a Pedagogy That Makes Skills Courses More Inclusive, Representative, and Critically Media Literate
Authors: Romero Walker Alexis
Published: September 2020

It is vital that critical media literacy be integrated in media programs’ skills courses. For students to become well-rounded and inclusive media makers, educators need to help students gain critical media literacy skills when producing content. This can be done through understanding and using film theory, which demonstrates to educators how canonized visual language is systemically discriminatory. The use of contemporary film theories helps students learn to subvert the canonized language, resulting in positive representations of all communities. With convergence of conceptual topics related to race, gender, and sexuality, educators and students can work together to produce equitable media.
The Great Failure: The Roles of Institutional Conflict and Social Movements in the Failure of Regeneration Initiatives in Istanbul
Authors: Kuyucu Tuna
Published: September 2020

Between 2004 and 2019, more than 30 areas in Istanbul have been earmarked as regeneration zones. But as of August 2019, only two projects are completed while the rest either never reached implementation stage or are stopped by courts, despite the right macroeconomic conditions and unflinching governmental will. Why? The answers lie in the ill-designed legal/institutional infrastructure behind urban regeneration, the conflictual relations between various stakeholders, and the effective utilization of the law by groups opposing the projects. The ill-designed policy generated serious legal uncertainties, institutional clashes, and lack of trust among stakeholders, which raised transaction costs and led to project failures. This has not, however, led the government toward reforming the policy to make it more rational. On the contrary, it has led to a more centralized and authoritarian policy framework. I demonstrate these arguments through an analysis of four failed projects in the city.
Early impact of COVID-19 outbreak on eye care: Insights from EUROCOVCAT group
Authors: Toro Mario Damiano , Brézin Antoine Pierre , Burdon Michael , Cummings Arthur Bernard , Evren Kemer Ozlem , Malyugin Boris Edvard , Prieto Isabel , Teus Miguel Angel , Tognetto Daniele , Törnblom Riikka , Posarelli Chiara , Chorągiewicz Tomasz , Rejdak Robert
Published: September 2020

The recent outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a public health emergency worldwide. The scientific community has put in much effort and published studies that described COVID-19’s biology, transmission, clinical diagnosis, candidate therapeutics, and vaccines. However, to date, only a few data are available on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on ophthalmological care in different health care systems, its future consequences in terms of disability, and access to sight-saving cures for many patients. To reduce human-to-human transmission of the virus and also ensure supply of infrastructures, human resources, and disposable medical devices to many regions, it is crucial to assess risks and postpone non-essential outpatient visits and elective surgical procedures, especially in older patients and those with comorbidities. This delay or suspension in essential eye procedures may cause significant and rapid vision impairment to irreversible blindness. Determining the risk-benefit profile of treating these ocular pathologies is a public health issue of supreme priority, even though many patients benefiting from therapeutic treatments are elderly, who are more vulnerable to COVID-19. If not reversible, this process could lead to a dramatic increase in disability and unsustainable social costs for many Governments.
Intravitreal injections during COVID-19 outbreak: Real-world experience from an Italian tertiary referral center
Authors: Carnevali Adriano , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Gatti Valentina , Scuteri Gianfranco , Randazzo Giorgio , Scorcia Vincenzo
Published: September 2020

We report our experience during COVID-19 outbreak for intravitreal injections in patients with maculopathy. We proposed a treatment priority levels and timings; the “High” priority level includes all monocular patients; the “Moderate” is assigned to all patients with an active macular neovascularization; the patients affected by diabetic macular edema or retinal vein occlusion belong to the “Low” class. This organization allowed us to treat the most urgent patients although the injections performed had a 91.7% drop compared to the same period of 2019.
Performance of Microbial Reverse-Electrodialysis Cells for Power Generation at Different External Resistance
Authors: Effendi Agus Jatnika , Hidayat Syarif , Syafrudin  , Ramadan Bimastyaji Surya , Purnawan Candra , Park Joo-Yang
Published: September 2020

In this study, the effect of external resistance on the microbial reverse-electrodialysis cell (MRC) performance using organic-rich wastewater as an electron donor was examined. The optimum of external resistance was determined to be 300 Ω. In such condition, the power density of 1.53 ± 0.198 W/m2, substrate removal of 52 ± 2.3%, Coulombic efficiency of 70 ± 2.6%, energy recovery of 3.0 ± 0.4%, and energy efficiency of 53 ± 7.1% were obtained in the MRC. The differences in power density at different external resistances were mainly due to the changes in internal resistance and ion flux efficiency in the MRC. The external resistance affected substrate removal and Coulombic efficiency through the length of batch cycle time, and current density exchanged as well as the Tafel slope. Furthermore, the proper external resistance applied to the reactor created high power production; thus, high energy efficiency and energy recovery were achieved. These results demonstrated that selecting proper external resistance was an essential key for a successful MRC operational.
The impact of COVID-19 on the Spanish tourism sector
Authors: Gil-Alana Luis Alberiko , Poza Carlos
Published: September 2020

We examine in this note the impact of COVID-19 on the Spanish tourism sector by using a strong dependence model. Daily data from five equity markets are used and we find that the coronavirus crisis has increased the persistence in the data, moving in some of the series from a mean reverting process to a non-mean reverting one. Thus, shocks that were expected to be transitory have become permanent, implying the need of strong policy measures to come the series back to their long-term projections.
Wellbeing and experiences of Chinese and Vietnamese carers of people with mental illness in Australia
Authors: Poon Abner Weng Cheong , Cassaniti Maria , Sapucci Michele , Ow Rosaleen
Published: September 2020

Many studies show that carers of people with mental illness experience a negative impact on their wellbeing. Given the growing number of people relocating to Australia every year, there are limited studies examining the experience of carers of people with mental illness from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia. Using cultural safety as a conceptual framework, this exploratory study recruited 14 carers of Chinese and Vietnamese heritage who were attending culturally and linguistically oriented support groups in Sydney, Australia. Standardised, validated scales were administered to measure carers’ wellbeing and knowledge of recovery. Structured interviews were conducted to understand carers’ perceived needs. Descriptive statistical and qualitative thematic analysis were used. Findings show that carers experienced social isolation and psychological distress, had multiple diverse needs and had a reasonably good understanding of recovery. Six themes were identified: i) obtaining information in own language; ii) attaining emotional support from support groups; iii) needing respite services to cope with caregiving responsibilities; iv) involvement in planning of treatment and care; v) migration process influencing caregiving, and; vi) cultural and transcultural factors influencing caregiving experience. Findings indicate that some carers might be experiencing some level of culturally unsafe practices in mainstream mental health services. Implications for support groups and mental health services are discussed.
Do implementation contexts for the Positive Parenting Program improve child and parental well-being?
Authors: Garcia Antonio R , Kim Minseop , Myers Christina , Trinh Xuan
Published: September 2020

While previous studies have offered insight into evidence-based practices that are effective in promoting safety and well-being, the underlying contextual implementation conditions that influence these outcomes in child welfare agencies are less understood. To address this gap, this study relied on organizational survey data collected from child welfare workers and supervisors during the process of implementing an evidence-based practice—the Positive Parenting Program—and merged those data with data gathered by the Parents' Assessment of Protective Factors survey.

Findings

Results showed a significant increase between baseline and termination of services in social connections and overall protective factors index scores. Parents who received services from organizations inclusive of supportive leadership experienced greater increases in social connections. Lower protective factors index scores were associated with workers’ perception that evidence-based practices were required; however, scores increased as supportive leadership increased. Parents who identified as African American experienced lower protective factors index scores compared to parents in other racial categories. Parents who were engaged with workers who felt evidence-based practices were appealing were likely to experience greater increases in protective factors index scores.

Applications

Intended client outcomes are more likely to be achieved when agency leaders (1) provide workers support to learn and use evidence-based practices and (2) rely on methods to increase evidence-based practice appeal rather than mandate implementation. Future research is needed to (1) understand why the implementation contexts or Positive Parenting Program itself are not as effective for African Americans as they are for oteher racial/ethnic groups and (2) validate findings in other agency contexts and with other evidence-based practices.
A Systematic Review of Treatment Interventions for Individuals With Intellectual Disability and Trauma Symptoms: A Review of the Recent Literature
Authors: Byrne Gary
Published: September 2020

Individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are at increased susceptibility to adverse life experiences and trauma sequelae. There is a disparate range of therapeutic interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and associated symptoms. This systematic review aimed to appraise the effectiveness of both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD and associated symptoms for both adults and children with mild, moderate, or severe intellectual delay. A systematic search, in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, of the PsychInfo, PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and MEDLINE databases were performed, and all relevant articles published between 2010 and March 2020 were included. A total of 11 articles were included, eight that focused on EMDR and three on CBT. The methodological quality of many of these articles was generally weak. Tentative findings suggest that EMDR and CBT are both acceptable and feasible treatment options among adults and children with varying levels of intellectual delay, but no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding effectiveness due to small sample sizes, lack of standardized assessment, and a paucity of methodological rigorous treatment designs. This review highlights the continued use of therapeutic approaches with clients presenting with IDs and PTSD. It adds to the extant literature by providing an expansive and broad overview of the current effectiveness of both EMDR and CBT. Further high-quality research is needed to provide more conclusive findings regarding treatment effectiveness and modifications to treatment needed with this population.
The Illusion of Control: History and Criticism of Interactive Television
Authors: Enns Anthony
Published: September 2020

The term “interactive television” initially referred to the idea that television might facilitate two-way communication between viewers. In the 1980s, this term was also used to refer to television’s ability to provide access to interactive menus and electronic services, and in the 1990s, it was used to refer to the idea that viewers could potentially alter the content of television programs. This new definition has now become possible due to the rise of streaming and on-demand services, and the sudden resurgence of interest in interactive television demands a revaluation and reassessment of its complicated history. While some critics celebrate interactivity as empowering and liberating, for example, others argue that it enables ever more virulent forms of control and manipulation. This article will examine the history of this controversial term and its most recent manifestations in order to address the significance of its meaning and ideological function.
Blessings and Cursings: The Liberating Gift of Profanity in Clinical Pastoral Education
Authors: Gilmore Jeremy
Published: September 2020

Profanity, derived from the Latin for “not sacred,” has long been seen as antithetical to spirituality. Social norms around organized religion, respectability, race, gender, etc. compound this perception. In this article, I examine how the use of profanity in Clinical Pastoral Education can help students experience personal, social, and physical freedom. Association of Clinical Pastoral Education outcomes, demographic data, and a student experience provide support for this assertion.
Abortion Helpline, This Is Lisa (2019)
Authors: Bass Maya , Gelo Florence
Published: September 2020

A film review of “Abortion Helpline, This Is Lisa (2019)”.
Online/Cyber Counseling Services in the COVID-19 Outbreak: Are They Really New?
Authors: Situmorang Dominikus David Biondi
Published: September 2020

Online/cyber counseling has been named as the best way to offer counseling services during the COVID-19 outbreak. The purpose of this article is to explore the use of online/cyber counseling during the COVID-19 outbreak to solve psychological problems. The author examines the history and concepts, the therapeutic relationship, transference and countertransference, the advantages along with the disadvantages, considerations, implications, and curriculum for online/cyber counseling during COVID-19 outbreak.
Swarm intelligence–based energy efficient clustering with multihop routing protocol for sustainable wireless sensor networks
Authors: Elhoseny Mohamed , Rajan R Sundar , Hammoudeh Mohammad , Shankar K , Aldabbas Omar
Published: September 2020

Wireless sensor network is a hot research topic with massive applications in different domains. Generally, wireless sensor network comprises hundreds to thousands of sensor nodes, which communicate with one another by the use of radio signals. Some of the challenges exist in the design of wireless sensor network are restricted computation power, storage, battery and transmission bandwidth. To resolve these issues, clustering and routing processes have been presented. Clustering and routing processes are considered as an optimization problem in wireless sensor network which can be resolved by the use of swarm intelligence–based approaches. This article presents a novel swarm intelligence–based clustering and multihop routing protocol for wireless sensor network. Initially, improved particle swarm optimization technique is applied for choosing the cluster heads and organizes the clusters proficiently. Then, the grey wolf optimization algorithm–based routing process takes place to select the optimal paths in the network. The presented improved particle swarm optimization–grey wolf optimization approach incorporates the benefits of both the clustering and routing processes which leads to maximum energy efficiency and network lifetime. The proposed model is simulated under an extension set of experimentation, and the results are validated under several measures. The obtained experimental outcome demonstrated the superior characteristics of the improved particle swarm optimization–grey wolf optimization technique under all the test cases.
Increased rupture risk in small intracranial aneurysms associated with methamphetamine use
Authors: Noblett Dylan , Hacein-Bey Lotfi , Waldau Ben , Ziegler Jordan , Dahlin Brian , Chang Jennifer
Published: September 2020

Background

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is the most common cause of nontraumatic SAH. Current guidelines generally recommend observation for unruptured intracranial aneurysms smaller than 7 mm, for those are considered at low risk for spontaneous rupture according to available scoring systems.

Objective

We observed a tendency for SAH in small intracranial aneurysms in patients who are methamphetamine users. A retrospective, single center study to characterize the size and location of ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms in methamphetamine users was performed.

Materials and methods

Clinical characteristics and patient data were collected via retrospective chart review of patients with intracranial aneurysms and a history of methamphetamine use with a specific focus on aneurysm size and location.

Results

A total of 62 patients were identified with at least one intracranial aneurysm and a history of methamphetamine use, yielding 73 intracranial aneurysms (n = 73). The mean largest diameter of unruptured aneurysms (n = 44) was 5.1 mm (median 4.5, SD 2.5 mm), smaller than for ruptured aneurysms (n = 29) with a mean diameter of 6.3 mm (median 5.5, SD 2.5 mm). Aneurysms measuring less than 7 mm presented with SAH in 36.5%. With regard to location, 28% (n = 42) of anterior circulation aneurysms less than 7 mm presented with rupture, in contrast to 70% (n = 10) of posterior circulation aneurysms which were found to be ruptured.

Conclusions

Methamphetamine use may be considered a significant risk factor for aneurysmal SAH at a smaller aneurysm size than for other patients. These patients may benefit from a lower threshold for intervention and/or aggressive imaging and clinical follow-up.
Consensus, cooperative learning, and flocking for multiagent predator avoidance
Authors: Young Zachary , La Hung Manh
Published: September 2020

Multiagent coordination is highly desirable with many uses in a variety of tasks. In nature, the phenomenon of coordinated flocking is highly common with applications related to defending or escaping from predators. In this article, a hybrid multiagent system that integrates consensus, cooperative learning, and flocking control to determine the direction of attacking predators and learns to flock away from them in a coordinated manner is proposed. This system is entirely distributed requiring only communication between neighboring agents. The fusion of consensus and collaborative reinforcement learning allows agents to cooperatively learn in a variety of multiagent coordination tasks, but this article focuses on flocking away from attacking predators. The results of the flocking show that the agents are able to effectively flock to a target without collision with each other or obstacles. Multiple reinforcement learning methods are evaluated for the task with cooperative learning utilizing function approximation for state-space reduction performing the best. The results of the proposed consensus algorithm show that it provides quick and accurate transmission of information between agents in the flock. Simulations are conducted to show and validate the proposed hybrid system in both one and two predator environments, resulting in an efficient cooperative learning behavior. In the future, the system of using consensus to determine the state and reinforcement learning to learn the states can be applied to additional multiagent tasks.
Causal conflicts produce domino effects
Authors: Khemlani Sangeet , Johnson-Laird PN
Published: September 2020

Inconsistent beliefs call for revision—but which of them should individuals revise? A long-standing view is that they should make minimal changes that restore consistency. An alternative view is that their primary task is to explain how the inconsistency arose. Hence, they are likely to violate minimalism in two ways: they should infer more information than is strictly necessary to establish consistency and they should reject more information than is strictly necessary to establish consistency. Previous studies corroborated the first effect: reasoners use causal simulations to build explanations that resolve inconsistencies. Here, we show that the second effect is true too: they use causal simulations to reject more information than is strictly necessary to establish consistency. When they abandon a cause, the effects of the cause topple like dominos: Reasoners tend to deny the occurrence of each subsequent event in the chain. Four studies corroborated this prediction.
Arthroscopic ligament-specific repair for triangular fibrocartilage complex foveal avulsions: a minimum 2-year follow-up study
Authors: Liu Bo , Arianni Margareta , Wu Feiran
Published: September 2020

This study reports the arthroscopic ligament-specific repair of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) that anatomically restores both the volar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments into their individual foveal footprints. Twenty-five patients underwent arthroscopic ligament-specific repair with clinical and radiological diagnoses of TFCC foveal avulsions. The mean age was 28 years (range 14–47) and the mean follow-up was 31 months (range 24–47). Following arthroscopic assessment, 20 patients underwent double limb radioulnar ligament repairs and five had single limb repairs. At final follow-up, there were significant improvements in wrist flexion–extension, forearm pronation–supination and grip strength. There were also significant improvements in pain and patient-reported outcomes as assessed by the patient-rated wrist evaluation, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and modified Mayo wrist scores. Arthroscopic ligament-specific repair of the TFCC does not require specialist dedicated equipment or consumables and offers a viable method of treating these injuries.

Level of evidence: IV
Immunological pathways of macrophage response to Brucella ovis infection
Authors: Zhou Zhixiong , Gu Guojing , Luo Yichen , Li Wenjie , Li Bowen , Zhao Yu , Liu Juan , Shuai Xuehong , Wu Li , Chen Jixuan , Fan Cailiang , Huang Qingzhou , Han Baoru , Wen Jianjun , Jiao Hanwei
Published: September 2020

As the molecular mechanisms of Brucella ovis pathogenicity are not completely clear, we have applied a transcriptome approach to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in RAW264.7 macrophage infected with B. ovis. The DEGs related to immune pathway were identified by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to validate the transcriptome sequencing data. In total, we identified 337 up-regulated and 264 down-regulated DEGs in B. ovis-infected group versus mock group. Top 20 pathways were enriched by KEGG analysis and 20 GO by functional enrichment analysis in DEGs involved in the molecular function, cellular component, and biological process and so on, which revealed multiple immunological pathways in RAW264.7 macrophage cells in response to B. ovis infection, including inflammatory response, immune system process, immune response, cytokine activity, chemotaxis, chemokine-mediated signaling pathway, chemokine activity, and CCR chemokine receptor binding. qRT-PCR results showed Ccl2 (ENSMUST00000000193), Ccl2 (ENSMUST00000124479), Ccl3 (ENSMUST00000001008), Hmox1 (ENSMUST00000005548), Hmox1 (ENSMUST00000159631), Cxcl2 (ENSMUST00000075433), Cxcl2 (ENSMUST00000200681), Cxcl2 (ENSMUST00000200919), and Cxcl2 (ENSMUST00000202317). Our findings firstly elucidate the pathways involved in B. ovis-induced host immune response, which may lay the foundation for revealing the bacteria–host interaction and demonstrating the pathogenic mechanism of B. ovis.
The subacromial spacer system for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears: A retrospective study of 47 patients with a two-year follow-up
Authors: Kaisidis Aristotelis , Pantos Panagiotis , Bochlos Dimitrios
Published: September 2020

Background

Numerous surgical options are available for the management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, but there are no current definitive guidelines concerning the optimal treatment modality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a biodegradable subacromial spacer (InSpace) implantation in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted involving 47 patients treated with the InSpace balloon between 2016 and 2018. Shoulder function was assessed using Constant Score. Pain was scored using a visual analogue scale, with scores ranging from 0 to 10.

Results

At an average follow-up of 24.6 months (range 12–38), the Constant Score had improved from 39.4 to 71.5 points (p < 0.0001). The range of motion, a main component of Constant Score, was improved after two years, from 27.6 to 42.2 points (p < .001). The visual analogue scale score decreased from 6.32 at baseline to a mean score of 2.7 points (p < 0.0001).

Discussion

Arthroscopic deployment of the InSpace device was found to be a safe, reliable treatment option in patients with painful irreparable rotator cuff tears, with meaningful improvement in shoulder function without serious complications.
The contribution of cyber-physical production systems to activity-based costing in manufacturing. An interventionist research approach
Authors: Nota Giancarlo , Matonti Gaetano , Bisogno Marco , Nastasia Stefania
Published: September 2020

This study aims to investigate how the use of cyber-physical production systems (CPPS) in small manufacturing firms can facilitate the implementation of the activity-based costing (ABC) method in calculating production costs, thereby increasing the reliability of costing information for decision-making purposes. The collaboration between the research team and managers allowed an in-depth knowledge of the manufacturing problems at the investigated firm, facilitating the analysis of the manufacturing process through both a costing and a managerial perspective. Findings show that the integration of CPPS investments with the ABC method, through real-time measurement of resources by sensors, apps and part programs, leads to useful information about operations, allowing firms to improve performance and reduce resource consumption. As a result, a model of integration between the factory control system, communication network and production system is proposed.
Potential Protective Effects of Neonatal Supplementation with Oleanolic Acid on Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ)-Ligand Dependent Regulation of Glucose Homeostasis in High Fructose-Fed Rats
Authors: Mosana Mmahiine , Ayeleso Ademola , Nyakudya Trevor , Erlwanger Kennedy , Mukwevho Emmanuel
Published: September 2020

The effect of neonatal oral supplementation of oleanolic acid (OA) on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ)-1 on glucose homeostasis in high fructose-fed rats was investigated. Rat pups (7 days old) were randomly assigned to and randomly administered with control (Distilled water, DW), OA (60 mg/kg), metformin (MET, 500 mg/kg), high fructose solution (HFS, 20% w/v), OA + HFS, MET + HFS, and treated till postnatal day (PND) 14. The pups were weaned onto a standard diet on PND 21 up to PND 111 and terminated on PND 112. Glucose derivatives and gene expressions of PPARγ-1 and glucose transporter type 4 (Glut-4) in the skeletal muscles were determined by using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, respectively. HFS significantly lowered glucose concentration and showed the propensity to suppress the expression of PPARγ-1, but not significantly. OA and MET alone significantly increased PPARγ-1 and Glut-4 expressions. There was no significant difference between the OA and OA + HFS for PPARγ-1 and Glut-4 expressions, although OA expressions were always higher than that of the OA + HFS group. An elevated level of glucose-6-phosphate was observed in OA, MET, and OA + HFS groups. Ribose-5-phosphate was significantly higher in OA and MET groups than the control. Ribose-5-phosphate was also significantly high in OA-treated group compared with OA + HFS. It is concluded that the neonatal supplementation with OA could help to improve the activity of PPARγ in reducing the burden of metabolic diseases.
The Role of the School Nurse in Detecting and Preventing Child Abuse During This Age of Online Education
Authors: Haas Jessica J.
Published: September 2020

Due to collaborative relationships fostered with school staff and the ability to form long-term trusting relationships with students, school nurses are uniquely situated to address the issue of child abuse detection and prevention in this age of online education brought about by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). School nurses can and should champion the cause of child safety in their schools, even during school closures through the implementation of key nursing interventions such as staff education on detecting child abuse in online environments. School nurses can also protect children by supporting parents who are dealing with great stressors due to the current global pandemic. Providing resources for families, encouraging parental self-care, educating families about online safety, and encouraging family discussion about child abuse all help to prevent abuse and maltreatment of children. When child abuse goes unreported because of school closures, school nurses can bridge the gap and advocate for detection and prevention in online education.
Dupilumab as Add-on Therapy for Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyposis in Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: Mustafa S. Shahzad , Vadamalai Karthik , Scott Bryan , Ramsey Allison
Published: September 2020

Background

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) affects 7% of asthmatics. Usual therapies are inadequate for asthma and/or nasal polyposis, leading to decreased quality of life.

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of dupilumab in AERD patients with uncontrolled, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP).

Methods

Patients 18 years and older with a physician diagnosis of AERD and sino-nasal outcome test 22 (SNOT 22) score ≥19 despite standard medical therapy were eligible for the study. Patients received one month of placebo dosing, followed by 6 months of dupilumab. Patients were blinded to the order of therapy. Wilcoxon-paired rank sum test was used to compare study outcomes at baseline and the completion of the study.

Results

Ten patients completed the study. The median baseline SNOT 22 score improved from 46 [IQR: 34 to 64.8] to 9.5 [IQR: 2.5 to 19] after 6 months of therapy (p = 0.0050). The median baseline Lund MacKay score improved from 21.5 [IQR: 17 to 23.3] to 4 [IQR: 1.2 to 6] after 6 months of therapy (p = 0.0050). There was also improvement in the following secondary outcomes: asthma control test (ACT), mini asthma quality of life questionnaire (AQLQ), and University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification test (UPSIT). Exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), total serum IgE, 24-hour urinary leukotriene E4, and serum thymus and activation regulated cytokine (TARC) also decreased. There were no significant study-related adverse events.

Conclusion

Dupilumab was highly effective as add-on therapy for CRSwNP in AERD, improving patient-reported outcomes, sinus opacification, and markers of T2 inflammation.
LncRNA TMPO-AS1 facilitates the proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC cells by up-regulating ERBB2 via sponging miR-204-3p
Authors: Yu Xiaobo , Lin Qiang , Liu Fabing , Yang Fu , Mao Jingyu , Chen Xi
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

This study aims at probing into the expression and biological function of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) TMPO-AS1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and exploring its regulatory role for miR-204-3p and erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2).

Methods:

In this study, paired NSCLC samples were collected, and the expression levels of TMPO-AS1, miR-204-3p and ERBB2 were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR); proliferative ability and colony formation ability were detected by CCK-8 assay and plate colony formation assay, respectively; flow cytometry was performed to detect the effect of TMPO-AS1 on apoptosis; Transwell assay was used to detect the changes of migration and invasion; qRT-PCR and Western blot were utilised to analyse the changes of miR-204-3p and ERBB2 regulated by TMPO-AS1; luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were employed to determine the regulatory relationship between TMPO-AS1 and miR-204-3p.

Results:

We demonstrated that TMPO-AS1 was significantly up-regulated in cancerous tissues of NSCLC samples, and positively correlated with the expression of ERBB2, while negatively correlated with miR-204-3p. After transfection of TMPO-AS1 shRNAs into NSCLC cells, the malignant phenotypes of NSCLC cells were significantly inhibited, while overexpression of TMPO-AS1 had opposite effects; TMPO-AS1 was also demonstrated to regulate the expression of miR-204-3p by sponging it, and indirectly modulate the expression of ERBB2.

Conclusion:

Collectively, we conclude that TMPO-AS1 has the potential to be the ‘ceRNA’ to regulate the expression of ERBB2 by sponging miR-204-3p in NSCLC.