bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shaping Waves of Bone Morphogenetic Protein Inhibition During Vascular Growth
Authors: Guihard Pierre J. , Guo Yina , Wu Xiuju , Zhang Lily , Yao Jiayi , Jumabay Medet , Yao Yucheng , Garfinkel Alan , Boström Kristina I.
Published: August 2020

Rationale:

The BMPs (bone morphogenetic proteins) are essential morphogens in angiogenesis and vascular development. Disruption of BMP signaling can trigger cardiovascular diseases, such as arteriovenous malformations.

Objective:

A computational model predicted that BMP4 and BMP9 and their inhibitors MGP (matrix gamma-carboxyglutamic acid [Gla] protein) and CV2 (crossveinless-2) would form a regulatory system consisting of negative feedback loops with time delays and that BMP9 would trigger oscillatory expression of the 2 inhibitors. The goal was to investigate this regulatory system in endothelial differentiation and vascular growth.

Methods and Results:

Oscillations in the expression of MGP and CV2 were detected in endothelial cells in vitro, using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. These organized temporally downstream BMP-related activities, including expression of stalk-cell markers and cell proliferation, consistent with an integral role of BMP9 in vessel maturation. In vivo, the inhibitors were located in distinct zones in relation to the front of the expanding retinal network, as determined by immunofluorescence. Time-dependent changes of the CV2 location in the retina and the existence of an endothelial population with signs of oscillatory MGP expression in developing vasculature supported the in vitro findings. Loss of MGP or its BMP4-binding capacity disrupted the retinal vasculature, resulting in poorly formed networks, especially in the venous drainage areas, and arteriovenous malformations as determined by increased cell coverage and functional testing.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest a previously unknown mechanism of temporal orchestration of BMP4 and BMP9 activities that utilize the tandem actions of the extracellular antagonists MGP and CV2. Disruption of this mechanism may contribute to vascular malformations and disease.
Deletion of Microfibrillar‐Associated Protein 4 Attenuates Left Ventricular Remodeling and Dysfunction in Heart Failure
Authors: Wang Hui-bo , Yang Jian , Shuai Wei , Yang Jun , Liu Li-bo , Xu Man , Tang Qi-zhu
Published: August 2020

Background

Cardiac remodeling predisposes individuals to heart failure if the burden is not solved, and heart failure is a growing cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The cardiac extracellular matrix not only provides structural support, but also is a core aspect of the myocardial response to various biomechanical stresses and heart failure. MFAP4 (microfibrillar‐associated protein 4) is an integrin ligand located in the extracellular matrix, whose biological functions in the heart remain poorly understood. In the current study we aimed to test the role of MFAP4 in cardiac remodeling.

Methods and Results

MFAP4‐deficient (MFAP4
−/−
) and wild‐type mice were subjected to aortic banding surgery and isoproterenol to establish models of cardiac remodeling. We also evaluated the functional effects of MFAP4 on cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and cardiac electrical remodeling. The expression of MFAP4 was increased in the animal cardiac remodeling models induced by pressure overload and isoproterenol. After challenge of 8 weeks of aortic banding or 2 weeks of intraperitoneal isoproterenol, MFAP4
−/−
mice exhibited lower levels of cardiac fibrosis and fewer ventricular arrhythmias than wild‐type mice. However, there was no significant effect on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In addition, there was no significant difference in cardiac fibrosis severity, hypertrophy, or ventricular arrhythmia incidence between wild‐type‐sham and knockout‐sham mice.

Conclusions

These findings are the first to demonstrate that MFAP4 deficiency inhibits cardiac fibrosis and ventricular arrhythmias after challenge with 8 weeks of aortic banding or 2 weeks of intraperitoneal isoproterenol but does not significantly affect the hypertrophy response. In addition, MFAP4 deficiency had no significant effect on cardiac fibrosis, hypertrophy, or ventricular arrhythmia in the sham group in this study.
Osteoprotegerin Prevents Intracranial Aneurysm Progression by Promoting Collagen Biosynthesis and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation
Authors: Miyata Takeshi , Minami Manabu , Kataoka Hiroharu , Hayashi Kosuke , Ikedo Taichi , Yang Tao , Yamamoto Yu , Yokode Masayuki , Miyamoto Susumu
Published: August 2020

Background

Decreased extracellular matrix formation and few vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in cerebral vascular walls are the main characteristics of intracranial aneurysm (IA) pathogenesis. Recently, osteoprotegerin was reported to activate collagen biosynthesis and VSMC proliferation via the TGF‐β1 (transforming growth factor‐β1) signaling. This study aimed to investigate whether osteoprotegerin can prevent IA progression in rats through enhanced collagen expression and VSMC proliferation.

Methods and Results

IAs were surgically induced in 7‐week‐old male Sprague–Dawley rats; at 1‐week post‐operation, recombinant mouse osteoprotegerin or vehicle control was continuously infused for 4 weeks into the lateral ventricle using an osmotic pump. In the osteoprotegerin‐treatment group, the aneurysmal size was significantly smaller (37.5 μm versus 60.0 μm;
P
<0.01) and the media of IA walls was thicker (57.1% versus 36.0%;
P
<0.01) than in the vehicle‐control group. Type‐I and type‐III collagen, TGF‐β1, phosphorylated Smad2/3, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen were significantly upregulated in the IA walls of the osteoprotegerin group than that in the control group. No significant difference was found in the expression of proinflammatory genes between the groups. In mouse VSMC cultures, osteoprotegerin treatment upregulated the expression of collagen and TGF‐β1 genes, and activated VSMC proliferation; the inhibition of TGF‐β1 signaling nullified this effect.

Conclusions

Osteoprotegerin suppressed the IA progression by a unique mechanism whereby collagen biosynthesis and VSMC proliferation were activated via TGF‐β1 without altering proinflammatory gene expression. Osteoprotegerin may represent a novel therapeutic target for IAs.
Clinical Implications of Physical Function and Resilience in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Goel Kashish , O’Leary Jared M. , Barker Colin M. , Levack Melissa , Rajagopal Vivek , Makkar Raj R. , Bajwa Tanvir , Kleiman Neal , Linke Axel , Kereiakes Dean J. , Waksman Ron , Allocco Dominic J. , Rizik David G. , Reardon Michael J. , Lindman Brian R.
Published: August 2020

Background

Gait speed is a reliable measure of physical function and frailty in patients with aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Slow gait speed pre‐TAVR predicts worse clinical outcomes post‐TAVR. The consequences of improved versus worsened physical function post‐TAVR are unknown.

Methods and Results

The REPRISE III (Repositionable Percutaneous Replacement of Stenotic Aortic Valve Through Implantation of Lotus Valve System–Randomized Clinical Evaluation) trial randomized high/extreme risk patients to receive a mechanically‐expanded or self‐expanding transcatheter heart valve. Of 874 patients who underwent TAVR, 576 with complete data at baseline and 1 year were included in this analysis. Slow gait speed in the 5‐m walk test was defined as <0.83 m/s. A clinically meaningful improvement (≥0.1 m/s) in gait speed 1 year after TAVR occurred in 39% of patients, 35% exhibited no change, and 26% declined (≥0.1 m/s). Among groups defined by baseline/1‐year post‐TAVR gait speeds, 1‐ to 2‐year mortality or hospitalization rates were as follows: 6.6% (normal/normal), 8.0% (slow/normal), 20.9% (normal/slow), and 21.5% (slow/slow). After adjustment, slow gait speed at 1 year (regardless of baseline speed) was associated with a 3.5‐fold increase in death/hospitalization between 1 and 2 years compared with those with normal baseline/1‐year gait speed. Patients whose slow gait speed normalized at 1 year had no increased risk. One‐year, but not baseline, gait speed was associated with death or hospitalization between 1 and 2 years (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.83 per 0.1 m/s faster gait; 95% CI, 0.74–0.93,
P
=0.001).

Conclusions

Marked heterogeneity exists in the trajectory of physical function after TAVR and this, more than baseline function, has clinical consequences. Identifying and optimizing factors associated with physical resilience after TAVR may improve outcomes.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clini​caltr​ials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02202434.
Grammars of Classical Arabic in Judaeo-Arabic
Authors: Vidro Nadia
Published: August 2020

This article presents an overview of medieval Classical Arabic grammars written in Judaeo-Arabic that are preserved in the Cairo Genizah and the Firkovich Collections. Unlike Jewish grammarians’ application of the Arabic theoretical model to describing Biblical Hebrew, Arabic grammars transliterated into Hebrew characters bear clear evidence of Jewish engagement with the Arabic grammatical tradition for its own sake. In addition, such manuscripts furnish new material on the history of the Arabic grammatical tradition by preserving otherwise unknown texts. The article discusses individual grammars of Classical Arabic in Judaeo-Arabic and tries to answer more general questions on this little known area of Jewish intellectual activity. An analysis of the corpus suggests that Jews who copied and used these texts were less interested in the intricacies of abstract theory than in attaining a solid knowledge of Classical Arabic. Court scribes appear to have been among those interested in the study of Classical Arabic grammar.
Meanderings in the Arabic Literary Genizot
Authors: Zinger Oded
Published: August 2020

The Cairo genizot (plural of Geniza) provide not only new Arabic literary texts but also new contexts. This study explores different kinds of context by presenting several examples of Arabic literary material found mostly in the Ben Ezra Geniza (BEG). The examples include three tales that also appear in the Arabian Nights literature, a Judeo-Arabic fragment of a Šīʿī kitāb al-ğafr, a Muslim historical work dealing with Muḥammad’s letters to foreign rulers, a playful romantic polemical exchange between a Jewish man and a Christian woman and more. Thinking about different kinds of context is one of the ways to reconnect the study of the documentary and the literary genizot.
A taxonomic treatment of Trisetopsis (Poeae, Poaceae) in southern Africa

Authors: MASHAU ALUONESWI C. , FISH LYN , VAN WYK ABRAHAM E.
Published: August 2020

Trisetopsis, a genus of temperate C3 grasses, extends from the Arabian Peninsula southwards along the African mountains (temperate Afromontane Region) to sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, with a centre of diversity in southern Africa. A taxonomic treatment of Trisetopsis in the Flora of southern Africa (FSA) region is presented. The proposed classification is based on existing and comparative evidence derived from macromorphology, micromorphology, leaf anatomy, DNA sequences and geographical distribution. Fourteen species of Trisetopsis are recognized in the FSA region, all of them endemic to the region. Five of the species are rare; based on IUCN Red List categories and criteria, three species are considered “Vulnerable”, one as “Endangered, and one as “Critically Endangered” and probably “Extinct”. Improved and emended species descriptions, a key to the species, updated distribution maps and illustrations, especially of the spikelets, are provided. Lectotypes are designated for the names Avenastrum longum var. grande and Avena longa (basionym of Trisetopsis longa).
A new species and a new record of alpheid shrimps of the genus Salmoneus Holthuis, 1955 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Alpheidae) from Iran
Authors: ASHRAFI HOSSEIN , ĎURIŠ ZDENĚK , NADERLOO REZA
Published: August 2020

Extensive samplings of benthic fauna along the Iranian coastlines of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman during 2018–2019 resulted in a small series of shrimps of the alpheid genus Salmoneus. Based on a thorough examination of this material, as well as previously collected specimens, one new species, S. rashedi n. sp., is described, whilst a significant range extension of S. chadwickae Ďuriš & Horká, 2016 is reported. Salmoneus rashedi n. sp. is a member of S. gracilipes species group. The present new species differs from other species of the group by a longer rostrum with a short dorsal crest and a single ventral rostral tooth; the species occurs in two colour forms from yellow to reddish orange with some transverse red bands.
Effects of Promethazine on Proliferation and Apoptosis of Myocardial Cells in Rats with Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Through PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xiao Hong Bing , Hu Wei , Gu Jun , Li Dandan
Published: August 2020

Objective: To assess promethazine's effect on myocardial cells in rats with myocardial ischemiareperfusion injury (MIRI). Methods: The rat MIRI model was established and treated as the ischemia group. MIRI rats were treated with promethazine and included as the drug group.
Rats only undergoing thoracotomy were enrolled as the control group. The physiological function of heart was assessed using the ultrasound cardiotachograph, and the apoptosis and proliferation of myocardial cells were detected using TUNEL assay and Ki67 staining, respectively. Moreover, the
expressions of Caspase-3, Bcl-2, PI3K, GSK-3, PDK-1 and PKB were determined via Western blotting and qPCR. Results: There were significant differences in cardiac function indexes [left ventricular enddiastolic diameter (LVEDd), left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESd), ejection
fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS)] among the three groups (p= 0 002, 0.004, 0.025 and 0.012), and ischemia group had the highest LVEDd [(8.73± 0.31) mm] and LVESd [(7.98± 0.37) mm] and lowest EF [(42± 3.8)%] and FS [(40.3± 2.8)%]. The number of apoptotic
myocardial cells was significant higher in ischemia group than control ( p< 0 05), while it was significantly declined after treatment with promethazine ( p< 0 05). Caspase-3 was significantly upregulated and Bcl-2 was downregulated in ischemia group which were all significantly reversed
in drug group. Besides, Ki67 level was significantly reduced in ischemia group compared to control and higher in drug group than ischemia group, indicating that drug treatment increased cell proliferation ability. The levels of PI3K, GSK-3 and PKB in myocardial tissues were significantly declined
in ischemia group and elevated after the treatment with promethazine without difference of PDK-1 level in myocardial tissues among the three groups. Conclusion: Promethazine inhibits apoptosis and promotes proliferation of myocardial cells in MIRI rats through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Intravenous Versus Oral Acetaminophen in Outpatient Cystoscopy Procedures: Retrospective Comparison of Postoperative Opioid Requirements and Analgesia Scores
Authors: Kor Todd M. , Naranjo Julian , Deljou Atousa , Evans Kimberly D. , Schroeder Darrell , Sprung Juraj , Weingarten Toby N.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To assess if the choice of acetaminophen formulation (intravenous vs oral) when administered preoperatively for ambulatory cystoscopy procedures is associated with differences in anesthetic outcomes.

Methods

Medical records of adult patients undergoing ambulatory cystoscopy procedures at an outpatient procedural center from July 1, 2014, through November 30, 2017, were abstracted. The association between anesthetic outcomes (severe pain, rescue opioids, postoperative nausea, and vomiting) and acetaminophen formulation was assessed. Propensity-adjusted analyses were performed using inverse probability of treatment weighting to account for potential confounders.

Results

During the study time frame, there were 611 intravenous and 2955 oral acetaminophen administrations for cystoscopy procedures. Postoperative bladder spasms were a major contributor to severe pain and complicated 1036 cases, with similar rates between intravenous (N = 183, 29.9%) and oral (N = 853, 28.9%) formulations, P = .625. After adjusting for bladder spasms, intravenous acetaminophen was associated with longer anesthesia recovery (estimate 5.2 [95% CI 0.5-9.9] minutes, P = .030), use of rescue opioids (odds ratio 1.33 [1.07-1.66], P = .012), and postoperative nausea and vomiting (1.40 [1.02-1.93], P = .037), but not severe pain (1.07 [0.81-1.40], P = .640).

Conclusion

Preoperative intravenous acetaminophen compared to oral acetaminophen for ambulatory cystoscopy procedures was not associated with better anesthetic outcomes. Bladder spasms were a major contributor to postoperative pain.
Process development of water-based polyurethane with acrylate terminal group under water vapor permeability and water repellency for nylon fabric
Authors: Kuo Chung-Feng Jeffrey , Chen Jiong-Bo , Yang Chi-Ping , Dong Min-Yan
Published: August 2020

This study synthesized water-based polyurethane with acrylate terminal group (WPUA) using the long carbon chain of stearyl acrylate to synthesize hydrophobic poly-stearyl acrylate (PSA). The proposed process could minimize environmental pollution caused by fluorine-containing monomers. As a water-based polyurethane (WPU) end-capping agent, the hydrophobic PSA and the hydrophilic and water vapor permeable WPU are copolymerized to form a WPUA functional resin with simultaneous water vapor permeability (WVP) and water repellency. Here, 2-mercaptoethanol was used to control the molecular weight of PSA to prepare the acrylate end-capping agent. PSA was then employed in WPU to form WPUA, which is characterized by the moisture permeability of WPU and water repellency of acrylic resin simultaneously. During the WPUA process, dimethylacetamide was used as a neutralizer to replace the traditional toxic chemical control drug triethylamine. This study set up the material and chemical structure to replace the toxic chemical-controlled drugs and organofluoride in the traditional preparation of moisture permeable and water repellent materials. The proposed process was proven to reduce the consumption of organic solvent, achieve WPUA copolymer stability, and provided moisture permeable and water repellent functions. In addition, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the structure of WPUA, while thermogravimetry analysis and differential scanning calorimetry were performed to establish the thermal properties of WPUA. After the WPUA was padded on nylon fabric, its water drop contact angle was observed through a scanning electron microscope. The results showed that the contact angle of nylon fabric increased significantly, water repellency was reached, and WVP rises by 23.75%.
Design and synthesis of novel chitosan–based nanocomposite containing mesoporous nanosilica MCM-41: Effective absorbent for the elimination of Pb (II) from aqueous solution
Authors: Maghsoudi Mina , Abbasian Mojtaba , Farhadi Khalil
Published: August 2020

A novel chitosan–based nanocomposite containing mesoporous nanosilica MCM-41 was synthesized, and its application as a good adsorbent for Pb (II) ions was investigated. In this context, MCM-41 was modified by 3-(Triethoxysilyl)-propylamine (3-APTES) to prepare MCM-41-NH2, and then MCM-41-NH2-graft-polyarcrylamide-co-polyacrylic acide-graft-chitosan [(MCM-41-NH2-g-poly(AAm-co-AA)-g-CS] nanocomposite was fabricated by in situ polymerization. The morphology and structure of nanocomposite were characterized by FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDS, XRD, AAS and TGA analysis. The results exhibited that active functional groups such as (-NH2) and (-COOH) on the nanocomposite surface reacted with Pb (II) ions via coordination bond. Maximum Pb (II) ion removal was seen at pH (6). The Pb (II) concentration and reaction time were 60 mg L−1 and 75 min as optimum conditions. Kinetics studies exhibited that adsorption experimental data were well adjusted to Langmuir isotherm, and the adsorption process onto polymer followed the pseudo-second order kinetics. As a result, it is expected that the synthesized nanocomposite can provide a promising prospect in the field of wastewater treatment.
Military Service, Combat Experience, and Civic Participation
Authors: Wilson Sven E. , Ruger William
Published: August 2020

Military service is a highly social—and potentially socializing—experience. However, the long-term social effect of military service is a little-studied topic, and some have dismissed any direct impact of service on civic participation. Using data from a large, national survey, our estimates show, in contrast, that the likelihood and intensity of group participation is higher among veterans than other men and that combat veterans have the highest level of participation. Mettler argued that education funded through the GI Bill gave veterans both resources (“civic capacity”) and a desire to reciprocate to society (“civic predisposition”) for the generous benefits they received, but she did not allow for the possibility that service itself could also increase both civic capacity and predisposition. Furthermore, our estimates confirm that education is strongly associated with higher civic participation and that the association between military service and participation is largely independent of education.
Preschool mental health: The Brief Child and Family Intake and Outcomes System
Authors: Niccols Alison , Cunningham Charles , Pettingill Peter , Bohaychuk Donna , Duku Eric
Published: August 2020

Despite the availability of effective early interventions, few preschoolers with mental health issues receive these services. This situation exists partly due to challenges in the identification of emotional and behavioral issues in young children. We developed the Brief Child and Family Intake and Outcomes System for Preschoolers, which is a 60-item standardized online parent questionnaire including three externalizing scales (Regulating Attention, Impulsivity, and Activity; Cooperating; Regulating Conduct), five internalizing scales (Separating from Parents; Managing Anxiety; Managing Social Anxiety; Regulating Compulsive Behaviour; Managing Mood), and two regulating states scales (Eating; Sleeping). We conducted a normative study of 1,200 Canadian children 3–5 years old, stratified by sex, age, geographic region, and parents’ marital status, income, and education. Confirmatory factor analyses demonstrated good model fit, and the relationship between items and scales did not vary significantly between boys and girls or among 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old children. Reliability estimates indicated high internal consistency and 2-month test–retest reliability for a subsample ( n = 100) ranging from .44 to .73. Providing preliminary evidence of validity, scale scores had positive relations with measures of child functioning challenges, family distress, caregiver mood, and demographic risk variables. We extend earlier work by including clinically relevant emotional-behavioral scales while at the same time minimizing respondent burden and providing norms for Canadian preschoolers. The questionnaire could be used in children’s mental health settings, primary care, child welfare, and day-care and school facilities, for intake, triage, and describing 3- to 5-year-old children.
Differentiation of soft-tissue lymphoma from undifferentiated sarcoma: apparent diffusion coefficient histogram analysis
Authors: Hong Ji Hyun , Jee Won-Hee , Whang Sunyoung , Jung Chan-Kwon , Chung Yang-Guk , Cho Seok-Goo
Published: August 2020

Background

Making the preoperative diagnosis of soft-tissue lymphoma is important because the treatments for lymphoma and sarcoma are different.

Purpose

To determine the reliability and accuracy of single-slice and whole-tumor apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram analysis when differentiating soft-tissue lymphoma from undifferentiated sarcoma.

Material and Methods

Patients with confirmed soft-tissue lymphoma or undifferentiated sarcoma who underwent 3-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including diffusion-weighted imaging, were included. Single-slice and whole-tumor ADC histogram analyses were performed using software. Mean, standard deviation (SD), 5th and 95th percentiles, skewness, and kurtosis were compared between groups, and a receiver operating characteristic curve with area under the curve (AUC) was obtained.

Results

Thirteen patients with soft-tissue lymphoma and 12 patients with undifferentiated sarcoma were included. ADC histogram analysis of single-slice and whole-tumor, mean, SD, and 5th and 95th percentiles was significantly lower in lymphoma than in undifferentiated sarcoma. Whole-tumor analysis kurtosis was significantly higher in lymphoma than in undifferentiated sarcoma. All AUCs were high in single-slice and whole-tumor analysis: 0.987 vs. 1.000 in mean; 0.821 vs. 0.782 in SD; 0.949 vs. 0.949 in 5th percentile; and 1.000 vs. 1.000 in 95th percentile without significant difference. AUC of kurtosis in whole-tumor ADC histogram analysis was 0.750.

Conclusion

Single-slice and whole-tumor ADC histogram analysis seems to be reliable and accurate for differentiating soft-tissue lymphoma from undifferentiated sarcoma.
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome associated with Pneumocystis pneumonia in a patient with AIDS
Authors: Wen Ying , Wang Meng-chan , Zhou Ying , Lin Xu-yong , Hou Gang , Yin Yan
Published: August 2020

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) after starting antiretroviral treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has a wide variety of causes. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of IRIS is fatal. We report a case of a 21-year-old man with HIV infection and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. The patient presented with fever and dyspnea with deterioration of pulmonary infiltrations 5 days after starting antiretroviral treatment. We reached the diagnosis of IRIS based on radial endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided lung biopsy. In conclusion, radial EBUS-guided lung biopsy via bronchoscopy is a valuable and minimally invasive technique for the rapid diagnosis of IRIS-associated Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia.
Experimental study on loading rate and notch-to-depth ratio effects on flexural performance of self-compacting concrete with acoustic emission and digital image correlation technologies
Authors: Chen Xudong , Shi Dandan , Zhang Jinhua , Cheng Xiyuan
Published: August 2020

As no extra vibration is needed in the casting procedure of self-compacting concrete for its excellent workability under its own dead weight, the material can be applied to construction projects where vibrations are hard to perform. To better utilize self-compacting concrete in practical engineering, it is essential to conduct an in-depth study on its fracture performance. In this study, three-point bending tests on notched self-compacting concrete beams were performed considering different loading rates and notch-to-depth ratios as variables. Acoustic emission technique and digital image correlation method were utilized to collect acoustic emission signals generated in the loading procedure and monitor crack propagation in the fracture process zone, respectively. Results show that the b-value from acoustic emission analysis can be divided into three stages and the variation range increases as the notch-to-depth ratio increases. Based on clustering analysis, three cluster groups can be obtained, and it is found that the ratio of the first cluster group decreases while that of the third cluster group increases when notch-to-depth ratio increases. With the aid of digital image correlation technique, effective crack length and horizontal crack opening displacement can be recorded and it is observed that crack tip opening displacement decreases as the notch-to-depth ratio increases.
Effect of Nano-Silica on the Properties of Concrete and Its Interaction with Slag
Authors: Said Aly M. , Islam Mohammad Sajjadul , Zeidan Mohamed S. , Mahgoub Mohamed
Published: August 2020

The current study investigates the performance of concrete incorporating ground granulated blast-furnace (GGBF) slag in the presence of colloidal nano-silica. A control group of concrete mixtures is compared with a group of mixtures with 50% slag replacement, with each group examined at two different ratios of colloidal nano-silica (3% and 6% of the total cementitious material). Subsequently, the relative performance of the two groups is compared with ordinary Portland cement concrete in relation to strength and durability properties. Evaluation included experimental examination of compressive and tensile strength, rapid chloride penetration, and porosimetry using mercury intrusion tests. Furthermore, the microstructure of the cementitious matrix was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy imaging. Results of the tested concrete mixtures indicated that nano-silica particles can improve the properties of concrete containing GGBF slag. Improvement in high early strength as well as reduction in permeability are observed. Furthermore, nano-silica caused a refinement of the pore structure and an improvement to the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) as seen through mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) results and scanning electron microscopy imaging, respectively.
The tradeoffs of using female suicide bombers
Authors: Soules Michael J.
Published: August 2020

Why are there so few female suicide bombers despite their tactical effectiveness? To explain the rarity of this phenomenon, I examine the tradeoffs that armed groups face when using female suicide bombers. While rigid gender norms make female bombers more effective because security personnel are less suspicious of them, gender inequality also drives down the demand for female suicide bombers. I posit that the tradeoffs of using female bombers induce a curvilinear relationship between women’s status and the prevalence of female suicide bombers. Specifically, I argue that female bombers will be more common in countries with middling levels of gender equality than in highly equal or unequal societies. Using data on over 5,500 suicide attacks, from 1974 to 2016, I find support for this hypothesis.
Parental Experiences Caring for Their Hospitalized Medically Fragile Infants: A Description of Grief, Stress, and Coping
Authors: MacKay Lyndsay , Benzies Karen , Barnard Chantelle , Raffin Bouchal Shelley
Published: August 2020

Background

Advances in care have increased survival and improved outcomes of infants with complex and chronic diseases. These medically fragile infants require long-term hospitalization and depend on technology for survival. Parents of these infants experience stress and difficulties adapting to their parental role.

Purpose

To present an account of parental experiences as they provided care for their hospitalized medically fragile infant.

Methods

This study was part of a larger constructivist grounded theory study to provide a holistic understanding of the processes of care for medically fragile infants. For this sub-study, 21 parents of hospitalized medically fragile infants were recruited from a pediatric hospital in Western Canada. Parents participated in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed and analyzed using initial and focused coding.

Results

Parents of hospitalized medically fragile infants grieved the loss of parenting a healthy infant, and they experienced multiple stressors. Parents utilized various coping strategies to manage their grief and stressors. Some parents were unable to cope, which exacted a heavy toll on their physical and mental health. Parents recommended psychological support, access to physical activity, primary nursing, and health system navigators.

Conclusions

Parental recommendations can inform the design of interventions for parents of hospitalized medically fragile infants.
With God on their Side: Gender–Religiosity Intersectionality and Women’s Workforce Integration
Authors: Frenkel Michal , Wasserman Varda
Published: August 2020

On the basis of a case study of the integration of Haredi Jewish women into the Israeli high-tech industry, we explore how gender–religiosity intersectionality affects ultra-conservative women’s participation in the labor market and their ability to negotiate with employers for corporate work–family practices that address their idiosyncratic requirements. We highlight the importance of pious women’s affiliation to their highly organized religious communities while taking a process-centered approach to intersectionality and focusing on the matrix of domination formed by the Israeli state, employers, and the organized ultra-orthodox community. We dub this set of actors “the unholy-trinity” and argue that it constructs a specific, religion-centric inequality regime that restrains women’s job and earning opportunities. At the same time, the “unholy trinity” also empowers women in their struggle to create a working environment that is receptive to their religiosity and what that commitment demands of them.
The Role of Racial Microaggressions and Bicultural Self-Efficacy on Work Volition in Racially Diverse Adults
Authors: Marks Laura Reid , Yeoward Jennifer , Fickling Melissa , Tate Kevin
Published: August 2020

We investigated the relationship between racial microaggressions and work volition in a sample of racially diverse adults ( N = 171) in the United States for this online cross-sectional study. Correlation analyses revealed that higher levels of racial microaggressions across five of the six racial microaggression dimensions (i.e., criminality, environmental invalidations, foreigner, invisibility, and low-achieving/undesirable culture) related to lowered work volition. We explored how the relationship between dimensions of racial microaggressions and work volition varied by level of bicultural self-efficacy. Regression analyses indicated that bicultural self-efficacy significantly moderated the relationship between four dimensions of racial microaggressions (i.e., criminality, invisibility, low- achieving/undesirable culture, and sexualization) and work volition. More specifically, high levels of bicultural self-efficacy buffered some of the effects of these racial microaggressions on work volition. Implications for practice, limitations, and future directions for career research are discussed.
Shadow Elite of Teacher Education Reforms: Intermediary Organizations’ Construction of Accountability Regimes
Authors: Aydarova Elena
Published: August 2020

In the 2010s, teacher education witnessed the rise of accountability regimes. Studies examining efforts to introduce teacher preparation accountability focused predominantly on federal or state actors, leaving the involvement of intermediary organizations in the construction of these regimes largely underexplored. To address this gap, I analyze nonprofit and for-profit actors’ advocacy for teacher preparation accountability. Using the tools of anthropology of policy and social network analysis, I demonstrate that these actors’ success rests on their ability to work together as a flex net, or a collective that pursues a shared vision and pools together resources to accomplish a common agenda.
Investigation of forming limit diagram and mechanical properties of the bimetallic Al/Cu composite sheet at different temperatures which fabricated by explosive welding
Authors: Alaie Ali , Hashemi Ramin , Kazemi Farshad
Published: August 2020

This research aims to investigate the mechanical properties, fractography and formability of Al/Cu two-layer composite sheets at three temperatures (23 °C, 120 °C and 220 °C). The bimetal sheet was fabricated by the explosive welding method. The anisotropy of the Al/Cu bimetallic composite sheet was investigated. The result showed significant anisotropy in the Al/Cu composite sheet due to the explosive welding process. The Vickers hardness measurements demonstrated that the hardness in both aluminum and copper sides increased because of the work hardening phenomenon. The fractography of the surfaces was investigated by the scanning electron microscope after tensile tests to study the effect of temperature and the direction, which the samples prepared for the tensile test with respect to the explosion direction, on the mechanism of the fracture. For the tensile test, the samples were prepared parallel to the detonation direction [Formula: see text] and two other directions with respect to the explosion direction [Formula: see text] from the AA1100/Cu10100 bimetallic sheet. Finally, the forming limit diagram of the Al/Cu composite sheet was determined at the three mentioned temperatures. The results demonstrated that temperature and the direction had a considerable effect on the mechanism of the rupture and formability. As the temperature of the specimen rises, the regions that brittle fracture happened became less and the formability improved significantly. The formability of the Al/Cu composite sheet enhanced about 34.8% when the temperature increased from 23 °C to 120 °C and 67.5% when it increased from 120 °C to 220 °C.
Enrollment Challenges: Recruiting Children From Diverse Racial and Ethnic Communities to a Study of Physical Activity and Perceived Stress
Authors: Wang Ya-Fen , Ha Soon Young , Watkins Trevor , Kan Koon Hwee , Zauszniewski Jaclene A.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Effective recruitment and retention can be particularly difficult when research involves children from diverse backgrounds. The purpose of this article is to describe productive methods for recruiting children from diverse racial and ethnic communities. A better understanding of this process will help researchers improve recruitment efforts and better address health disparities.

Method

Using data retrieved from a cross-sectional study examining children’s physical activity and stress, strategies and efforts for recruitment and retention were recognized and identified.

Results

During a 5-month recruitment period, 92 potential participants contacted research staff after multiple strategies were executed. Among them, 83.7% were successfully recruited, and 93.5% completed the study; additionally, 54% were White and about 30% Hispanic. Although initial recruitment plans were school based, the majority were recruited by referrals from current participants.

Discussion

Productive strategies varied by race, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. Proactive strategies and limitations, such as the use of a smartphone or Quick Response code, are discussed.
Evaluating the Quality of Home Care in China Using the Home Care Quality Assessment Tool
Authors: Tang Xianping , Ge Song , Ma Chenjuan , Chen Xuemei , Pei Yaolin , Zhou Lanshu , Wu Bei
Published: August 2020

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of home care in China using the Home Care Quality Assessment Tool (HCQuAT).

Method

We recruited 38 home health agencies in Shanghai, China, which included 18 in urban areas, 11 in suburban areas, and nine in rural areas. Data on quality of home care from each agency were collected by trained staff using the HCQuAT.

Results

On average, these home health agencies scored 74.28/100.00 ( SD = 6.80) on the HCQuAT, with an excellence rate of 39.5% and a failing rate of 23.7%. The mean scores on the structure quality module, process quality module, and outcome quality module were 71.2 ± 21.8, 86.6 ± 9.2, and 44.1 ± 37.5, respectively. Significant differences existed across geographic locations ( p = .018).

Discussion

Significant variations were identified in the quality of home care across quality modules and geographic locations. Outcome quality and quality in rural areas were lower than those for their counterparts.
Safety of Intravenous Bisphosphonates for the Treatment of Hypercalcemia in Patients With Preexisting Renal Dysfunction
Authors: Palmer Shannon , Tillman Frank , Sharma Preetika , Auten Jessica , Owen Kathryn , Clark Stephen M. , Morgan Katherine P.
Published: August 2020

Background

Although intravenous (IV) bisphosphonates are first-line medications for the management of hypercalcemia, studies examining their use in patients with preexisting renal dysfunction are limited.

Objective

The objective of this study is to describe the safety and efficacy of pamidronate and zoledronic acid in the treatment of hypercalcemia in patients with baseline renal dysfunction.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of IV pamidronate and zoledronic acid in adult patients with hypercalcemia and creatinine clearance (CrCl) <60 mL/min. The primary endpoint was incidence of all-grade serum creatinine (SCr) elevations. Secondary endpoints included refractory hypercalcemia, hypocalcemia, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), corrected serum calcium (CSC) decrease ≥1.0 mg/dL by day 7 of bisphosphonate administration, and normalization of CSC ≤10.5 mg/dL by days 10 and 30.

Results

A total of 113 patients were included (n = 55 pamidronate, n = 58 zoledronic acid). The primary endpoint of all-grade SCr elevation occurred in 28 (24.8%) patients. Grades 3/4 SCr elevations occurred in 10.9% of patients treated with pamidronate and 1.7% of patients receiving zoledronic acid. Approximately 16% and 14% of patients developed grades 1 and 2 hypocalcemia, respectively, and there were no cases of ONJ. Overall, 64.6% of patients achieved normalization of CSC by day 10, and there were no statistical differences between bisphosphonate type and renal function.

Conclusions and Relevance

The analysis suggests an association between IV bisphosphonates and increased rates of SCr elevations among patients with preexisting renal dysfunction. Future prospective studies are necessary to elucidate these findings.
Tagraxofusp followed by combined azacitidine and venetoclax in blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm: A case report and literature review
Authors: Samhouri Yazan , Ursu Sorana , Dutton Nina , Tanvi Verma , Fazal Salman
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive hematologic malignancy that originates from plasmacytoid dendritic cells. It can involve skin, bone marrow, and/or lymph nodes. There is no consensus recommendation regarding treatment especially in the relapsed setting. Tagraxofusp, a CD123 directed agent, was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat BPDCN. We report a case of an elderly patient with diagnosis of BPDCN who was treated initially with tagraxofusp followed by azacitidine and venetoclax combination on relapse.

Case report

A 79 year old male presented with violaceous skin lesions. He had no other symptoms. Biopsy of these lesions was consistent with a diagnosis of BPDCN. Further testing showed no extracutaneous involvement. Management and outcome: Tagraxofusp was started at full dose (12 mcg/kg). This dose was not tolerated well. Patient could only tolerate the lowest dose (5 mcg/kg). Toxicities included elevated liver function tests, hyperglycemia, capillary leak syndrome, and pancreatitis. Dose escalation on progression was not possible due to side effects. Treatment was switched to venetoclax and azacitidine. Combination treatment was tolerated very well and patient showed major cutaneous response after 5 cycles and continues to do well.

Discussion

Tagraxofusp is a novel therapy that needs more real-world experience. This case describes the clinical course of an elderly patient on tagraxofusp. We also review the literature of azacytidine/venetoclax combination as a potential yet tolerable treatment option for this rare disease entity. This is the fourth case in literature to be treated with this combination.
On a consistent rod theory for a linearized anisotropic elastic material: I. Asymptotic reduction method
Authors: Chen Xiaoyi , Dai Hui-Hui , Pruchnicki Erick
Published: August 2020

An asymptotic reduction method is introduced to construct a rod theory for a linearized general anisotropic elastic material for space deformation. The starting point is Taylor expansions about the central line in rectangular coordinates, and the goal is to eliminate the two cross-section spatial variables in order to obtain a closed system for displacement coefficients. This is first achieved, in an ‘asymptotically inconsistent’ way, by deducing the relations between stress coefficients from a Fourier series for the lateral traction condition and the three-dimensional (3D) field equation in a pointwise manner. The closed system consists of 10 vector unknowns, and further refinements through elaborated calculations are performed to extract bending and torsion terms and to obtain recursive relations for the first- and second-order displacement coefficients. Eventually, a system of four asymptotically consistent rod equations for four unknowns (the three components of the central-line displacement and the twist angle) are obtained. Six physically meaningful boundary conditions at each edge are obtained from the edge term in the 3D virtual work principle, and a one-dimensional rod virtual work principle is also deduced from the weak forms of the rod equations.
Efficacy of Omega-3 and Korean Red Ginseng in Children with Subthreshold ADHD: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Jeewon , Lee Soyoung Irene
Published: August 2020

Objective:

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of combined omega-3 and Korean red ginseng supplementation on ADHD symptoms and cognitive function in children with subthreshold ADHD.

Method:

120 children from 6 to 12 years with subthreshold ADHD were enrolled in this 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebocontrolled study. The primary outcome was measured by Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). Children Behavior Check List (CBCL), and neuropsychological tests assessing attention, memory, and executive function were included as secondary primary outcome measures.

Results:

Significant effects on the scores of ADHDRS, as well as several subscales of CBCL including ADHD and attention problem subscales were revealed.

Conclusion:

The combination of omega-3 and Korean red ginseng may have beneficial effects in children with subthreshold ADHD. Increased clinical awareness of ADHD symptoms even at a subthreshold level is needed.
Dugong v. Rumsfeld: social movements and the construction of ecological security
Authors: Kim Claudia Junghyun
Published: August 2020

Two high-profile social movements against the construction of military bases in Jeju, South Korea, and Okinawa, Japan, represent a contest between anti-militarist ecological security and traditional military security. At the heart of these movements, which went from a local phenomenon to a transnational cause célèbre, are two iconic movement symbols: Gureombi, a unique lava rock formation, and the dugong, an endangered marine mammal. By analyzing the emergence and resonance of the two nonhuman movement symbols, the paper joins the continuing debates in International Relations (IR) over what constitutes security and who deserves protection. The contributions are twofold. First, it employs theories of social and transnational movements to establish movement actors as practitioners of ecological security, showing how recent theoretical debates in IR on ecological security parallel new developments in social movements against military bases. Second, by analyzing the emergence and resonance of nonhuman beings as anti-militarist ecological symbols, the paper also contributes to the growing literature on ecological security that currently lacks empirical examinations.