bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in Tobacco Use Among a Sample of At-Risk Chinese, Filipino, and Vietnamese Adult Men Living in the SF Bay Area
Authors: Toleran Daniel E , Battle Robynn S , Gardiner Phillip
Published: August 2019

Background:

Smoking among Asian men has been studied, but differences in tobacco and cigarette use among US- and non-US-born Asian subgroups, especially those at risk for substance use or sexually transmitted diseases, has not been well-studied.

Aims:

To learn about the smoking of cigarettes or blunts among Asian ethnic groups, and whether place of birth, age, or primary language spoken at home is associated with smoking.

Methods:

Study participants were 125 adult (age > 18 years) Chinese, Filipino, or Vietnamese men living in San Francisco, Daly City, or San Jose, California, who self-reported substance use in the past 30 days. Information collected included sexual orientation, past year contact with the criminal justice system, place of birth, and primary language spoken at home. Bivariate analyses were used to compare the differences in self-reported smoking of cigarettes or tobacco-marijuana blunts by ethnicity, age, place of birth, and primary language spoken at home.

Results:

Filipinos had significantly higher rate of cigarette use (51%; P = .02) and smoking blunts (28%; P = .02) compared with Chinese (23% and 5%, respectively) or Vietnamese (34% and 17%, respectively); US-born Filipinos also had more days of cigarette use in the past 30 days (16 days; P = .05) compared with Chinese (8 days) or Vietnamese (6 days) participants.

Conclusions:

This study found differences in self-reported rates of cigarette and blunt use among Asian ethnic groups which suggest opportunities for targeted interventions. Future studies of tobacco or blunts use for these largely immigrant groups should take into account country of birth and language spoken at home in developing tobacco prevention services for this population.
Nitrous Oxide Reduces Pain Associated With Local Anesthetic Injections
Authors: Lin Matthew J. , Dubin Danielle P. , Khorasani Hooman
Published: August 2019

Background

Local anesthetic injections can be painful and distressing.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether nitrous oxide, ice, vibration, or topical anesthetic improves analgesia for local anesthetic injections.

Method

A cohort study of 400 patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery with local anesthetic was conducted. Patients received no intervention ( n = 200), ice ( n = 50), topical anesthetic cream ( n = 50), vibration device ( n = 50), or nitrous oxide ( n = 50). Pain was rated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale.

Results

Without intervention, mean VAS was 4.2 and FACES was 4.6. Nitrous oxide was the most successful in reducing pain (mean VAS 1.6 vs. 4.2, P < .01, FACES 1.2 vs. 4.6, P < .01). Topical ice reduced pain (mean VAS 3.0 vs. 4.2, P < .01, FACES 3.0 vs. 4.6, P < .01). Vibration reduced pain (mean VAS 3.5 vs. 4.2, P < .01, FACES 3.6 vs. 4.6, P < .01). Higher pain scores were associated with age <50 ( P = .02), male sex ( P = .05), and surgery on the nose, lip, ear, or eyelid ( P = .02).

Conclusion

Nitrous oxide, ice, and vibration reduce injection pain. These interventions are especially useful for younger males undergoing surgery on the nose, lip, ear, or eyelid.
Reviewing Management Learning: The field and the journal
Authors: Anderson Lisa , Thorpe Richard , Coleman Charlotte
Published: August 2019

We trace the origins and development of the management learning movement that has come to be closely associated with the journal Management Learning and explain how ideas that shaped the creation of business schools influenced the inception of this field. We then examine themes and trends that have been prevalent in the field in the second half of the journal’s 50-year history, through an analysis of its coverage over a 24-year period from 1994 to 2018. During this time, there has been a marked shift away from an applied focus on manager and management development towards a more theoretical perspective of the field, in keeping with trends in academic journals more generally. We focus on the journal’s contribution to the scholarship of management and organisational learning through an analysis of both strong and weak themes and its most cited papers. Finally, we propose ways in which our analysis of the past might offer new ways of thinking about our scholarship and we propose a future direction for the field and the journal that connects to the original intentions to shape organisational practice in order to address broader issues of social and economic exchange.
The organizational powers of (digital) media
Authors: Beverungen Armin , Beyes Timon , Conrad Lisa
Published: August 2019

Digital media are pervasive, ubiquitous and mundane constituents of organization. Organized life relies on, and is propelled by, technologies that store, transmit and process data and are based on networked computation. How can we understand and explore the fundamental mediatedness of organization? This article contextualizes and introduces the special issue on ‘The organizational powers of (digital) media’ by staging an encounter between organization theory and media theory. In provoking investigations of the power and effects of technological mediation in its many guises, not least in regard to digital or computational media, this encounter ushers in a ‘medial thought’ of organization.
Tourist arrivals versus tourist expenditures in modelling tourism demand
Authors: Rosselló-Nadal Jaume , HE Jianan
Published: August 2019

In empirical research, aggregate tourist arrivals and tourist expenditures are often indistinctly used as measures of tourism demand, depending on the aim of the analysis or, simply, on the availability of data. However, when a literature review was conducted, we found differences in the estimated elasticities, accordingly to the measure that was used. This article investigates these two measures, exploring the theoretical link between them in the context of tourism demand modelling at a destination level. Having established the theoretical connection between the two variables with implications on the estimated elasticities, we estimate tourism demand models using international arrivals and tourist expenditures for 191 countries from 1998 to 2016, providing evidence for the theoretical connection. Our results show that when both tourist demand measures are used, the estimated elasticities may differ.
Shaking table test on seismic performances of newly designed joints for mountain tunnels crossing faults
Authors: Yan Gaoming , Gao Bo , Shen Yusheng , Zheng Qing , Fan Kaixiang , Huang Haifeng
Published: August 2019

The zones where tunnels pass through faults are considered to be severely damaged during earthquakes. Site investigation of tunnels crossing faults revealed that there were different types of damage patterns after earthquakes. This article proposed a new seismic design concept of “guiding” and “yielding.” Two types of joints, multilevel brittle-flexible joint and flexible joint, were based on this concept and were investigated in this study. A series of shaking table tests were conducted on reduced scale tunnel models under two steps of the loading process, fault movement and subsequent seismic excitation with increasing intensities. The results showed that both types of joints clearly reduced the seismic responses of the tunnel lining. The idealized behavior—step-like deformation—appeared along the longitudinal direction of the tunnel in the two tests. No shear failure of the tunnel linings was found, and the longitudinal cracks in the crown, arch springing, and invert were common in the tests. The multilevel brittle-flexible joint was verified to be more appropriate for tunnels subject to massive earthquakes.
Characteristic and sources of atmospheric ozone in Xi’an
Authors: Liu Song , Cheng Yan , Yan Lu , Yu Chuck Wah
Published: August 2019

The atmospheric ozone (O3) is a serious pollution particularly in summer that causes serious respiratory health effect on residents and economic impact on sustainable development of Xi’an. The purpose of this project is to provide monitored data to determine the extent of O3 pollution in Xi’an and contributions of local and regional sources; which is different to other cities in China. Continuous monitoring of near-surface concentrations of ozone in ambient environment was conducted from March 2016 to June 2017 using UV photometric O3 analysers. The annual average O3 concentration was 37.2 μg·m−3 (1.0–120.3 μg·m−3). Higher average O3 concentrations were recorded in summer (59.2 μg·m−3) and spring (54.1 μg·m−3) than in autumn (30.7 μg·m−3) and winter (19.1 μg·m−3). The 1 h average O3 concentration during seven-months monitoring, mainly during May (38 h) and June (31 h) surpassed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of 160 μg·m−3 (GB 3095–2012). The regional pollution is important during daytime (peaked at 16:00) and was 18% higher than at night. The O3/NO x ratios ranged from 0 to 6.3, and 99.99% were <5. Results show the significant impact of regional sources of O3, which were mainly due to biogenic volatile organic compounds emitted from forests in surrounding mountains. Meteorological factors, e.g. solar irradiance, humidity, temperature and atmospheric pressure also have important effects on ambient O3 concentrations.
Self-transcendent emotions and social media: Exploring the content and consumers of inspirational Facebook posts
Authors: Dale Katherine R , Raney Arthur A , Ji Qihao , Janicke-Bowles Sophie H , Baldwin Joshua , Rowlett Jerrica T , Wang Cen , Oliver Mary Beth
Published: August 2019

Although a great deal of research has examined the potential negative effects of Facebook, studies also show that Facebook use can lead to various positive effects. This study builds on this positive effects scholarship: together, the two studies presented herein aim to provide an understanding of the inspirational content available on Facebook and the way social media users in the United States encounter, recall, and interact with this content. Results from the quantitative content analysis in Study 1 show that inspirational Facebook posts contain similar frequencies of hope and appreciation of beauty and excellent elicitors when compared with other forms of media and social media. Results from the national survey conducted in Study 2 show that social media users are most often inspired by portrayals of kindness and overcoming obstacles and that Facebook users did not report different sharing behavior as compared with users of other social media sites.
A real-time pressure wave model for knock prediction and control
Authors: Li Ruixue C , Zhu Guoming G
Published: August 2019

This article develops a control-oriented real-time zero-dimensional knock pressure wave model for spark-ignited engines based on the reaction-based two-zone combustion model developed earlier. This knock pressure wave model is capable of predicting the in-cylinder pressure oscillations under knocking combustion in real-time and can be used for the model-based knock prediction and control. A pressure wave equation including the knock deadening behavior is proposed, simplified, and used to calculate the pressure perturbations generated by knock combustion. The boundary and initial conditions at knock onset are analyzed and the analytic solution of the pressure wave equation is obtained. The model is calibrated and validated over two engine operating conditions at knock limit. The chemical kinetic-based Arrhenius integral and the maximum amplitude of pressure oscillations are used as the evaluation methods for knock onset and intensity prediction, and the knock frequency is studied using a fast Fourier transform of the filtered in-cylinder pressure oscillations. The simulation results show that the proposed knock pressure wave model is able to predict the knock onset timing, frequency, and intensity accurately under two engine operating conditions. Furthermore, the knock characteristics associated with gas mixture properties at intake valve closing is analyzed based on the experimental data, and their effect to knock cycle-to-cycle variation is also studied for the proposed model.
When the people are not reasonable: Multiculturalism and realistic normative theory in the contemporary era
Authors: Parvin Phil
Published: August 2019

In this piece, I offer an original and fundamental critique of a range of approaches to multiculturalism that have dominated the field of Anglo-American political theory since first-wave debates conducted in the 1990s/2000s. I suggest that the politics of the early twenty-first century, and especially the widespread rise of anti-immigrant and anti-minority sentiments among citizens of liberal democratic states throughout the world, requires political theorists who seek feasible solutions to real-world political problems to reject these theories. I focus on two approaches in particular: political liberalism and the politics of difference. Neither offers a vision of politics that is tenable in the early twenty-first century, I argue, as they both require citizens to deliberate about political matters in ways that they cannot. In discussing these approaches, and finding them wanting, it is revealed that political theorists face a choice. They can present a theory which is realistic in the sense that it takes account of political reality and offers a strategy which might be used to genuinely inform a process of reform. Alternatively, they can abandon realism and also the desire to produce an operational normative theory which can resolve real problems in actually existing states. I lay out the nature and importance of this choice and explain some of its implications for the discipline and for our current political predicament. I suggest that the choice is unavoidable and that making it requires political theorists to make a more fundamental decision about the purposes of normative political theory itself.
La Boétie and republican liberty: Voluntary servitude and non-domination
Authors: Newman Saul
Published: August 2019

The 16th-century French humanist writer Etienne de La Boétie has not often been considered in literature on republican political thought, despite his famous essay, Discours de la Servitude Volontaire, displaying a number of clear republican tropes and themes, being largely concerned with the problem of arbitrary power embodied in the figure of the tyrant. Yet, I argue that the real significance of La Boétie’s text is in his radical concept of voluntary servitude and the way it adds a new dimension to the neo-republican theory of liberty as non-domination. The problem of self-domination or wilful obedience to authority is a form of ideological domination that Pettit’s understanding of arbitrary power relationships between agents does not adequately account for. Furthermore, La Boétie shows that freedom is an ontological condition and is realised not – or not entirely – through the rule of law as the guarantee against arbitrariness, as neo-republicans advocate, but rather through acts of self-emancipation and civil disobedience. Here I understand La Boétie’s thinking in terms of a certain anarcho-republicanism in which the promotion of freedom depends not so much on institutions, as Pettit suggests, but rather on autonomous relations of friendship, love and solidarity between individuals.
Social Marketing Comes of Age: A Brief History of the Community of Practice, Profession, and Related Associations, With Recommendations for Future Growth
Authors: Kassirer Jay , Lefebvre Craig , Morgan Winthrop , Russell-Bennett Rebekah , Gordon Ross , French Jeff , Suggs L. Suzanne , Lee Nancy , Biroscak Brian J.
Published: August 2019

The emergence of the International Social Marketing Association (iSMA) and its affiliated regional associations is a key indicator that social marketing is maturing, both as a community of practice and as a profession. Through these associations, the international social marketing community has developed a consensus definition of the discipline and a consensus list of basic competencies for social marketing certificate programs. The associations are currently working on certification programs and a code of ethics. Continued movement toward professionalization can help social marketers be recognized and valued more highly for their relevant skills, knowledge, expertise, trustworthiness and altruism. At the same time, the discipline must address a number of key challenges and opportunities, to stay relevant and thrive.
Changes in Apposition of Endograft Limbs in the Iliac Arteries After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair: Determination With New Computed Tomography–Applied Software
Authors: Goudeketting Seline R. , Schuurmann Richte C. L. , Slump Cornelis H. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M.
Published: August 2019

Purpose: To validate new computed tomography (CT)–applied software used to determine endograft limb position and apposition after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Materials and Methods: Twelve EVAR patients (mean age 81±6 years; 10 men) with distal stent-graft extensions for 15 (3 bilateral) type Ib endoleaks during follow-up were selected based on the availability of the following CT studies: pre-EVAR, 1 month, and the penultimate scan prior to the scan disclosing the type Ib endoleak. Twelve patients (mean age 82±7 years; 11 men) without endoleak and a similar interval between the primary EVAR procedure and the penultimate CT scan of the endoleak group were selected as controls using measurements from both endograft limbs (n=21, 3 excluded). Prototype Vascular Imaging Analysis software was adapted to calculate 6 parameters for the distal apposition zone: fabric distance, shortest apposition length, endograft diameter, iliac seal surface (ISS), iliac endograft apposition surface (IEAS), and percentage of iliac surface coverage (IEAS/ISS × 100). Measurements were performed on the preoperative, first postoperative, and penultimate/matched follow-up CT scans. Interobserver variability was assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Continuous data are presented as the median [interquartile range (IQR) Q1, Q3]. Results: CTA follow-up was not significantly different between the endoleak and control groups [30 months (IQR 18, 58) vs 36 months (IQR 21, 59), p=0.843]. Interobserver agreement was good to excellent for all parameters (ICC 0.879–0.985). Preoperative anatomy and endograft dimensions on the first follow-up CTA scan did not differ significantly between the groups. When the penultimate CTA scan was compared with the first postoperative CT scan, endograft dimensions had significantly changed in the endoleak group; importantly, apposition was significantly decreased, and fabric distance was significantly increased, indicating limb retraction. Differences in changes in endograft dimensions were significant between the groups. Conclusion: New CT-applied software was introduced to visualize apposition and position changes of endograft limbs during follow-up. The software demonstrated good-to-excellent interobserver agreement and enabled accurate analysis of post-EVAR endograft dimensions. Significant changes in apposition and position were observed with the software on the penultimate CT scan prior to diagnosis of type Ib endoleak.
Impact of Zumba on Cognition and Quality of Life is Independent of APOE4 Carrier Status in Cognitively Unimpaired Older Women: A 6-Month Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Stonnington Cynthia M. , Krell-Roesch Janina , Locke Dona E. C. , Hentz Joseph G. , Dueck Amylou C. , Geda Yonas E. , Tariot Pierre N. , Caselli Richard J.
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To investigate the association of a 6-month Zumba intervention with cognition and quality of life among older cognitively unimpaired apolipoprotein ∊4 (APOE4) carrier and noncarrier women.

Methods:

Fifty-three women were randomly assigned to either twice-weekly Zumba group classes or maintenance of habitual exercise (control group) for 6 months. At baseline, 3, and 6 months, all participants underwent neuropsychological, physical activity, and quality-of-life assessments.

Results:

Overall, neuropsychological test scores and level of physical activity did not differ between intervention and control groups at any time. However, compared to the control group, quality of life was higher at 3 months, and visuospatial working memory and response inhibition improved more in the intervention group by 6 months. Apolipoprotein ∊4 status did not affect the results.

Discussion:

Zumba may strengthen performance on visuospatial working memory among cognitively unimpaired older women but this needs to be tested in a larger clinical trial.
Gamma-Band Auditory Steady-State Response as a Neurophysiological Marker for Excitation and Inhibition Balance: A Review for Understanding Schizophrenia and Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Tada Mariko , Kirihara Kenji , Koshiyama Daisuke , Fujioka Mao , Usui Kaori , Uka Takanori , Komatsu Misako , Kunii Naoto , Araki Tsuyoshi , Kasai Kiyoto
Published: August 2019

Altered gamma oscillations have attracted considerable attention as an index of the excitation/inhibition (E/I) imbalance in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. The auditory steady-state response (ASSR) has been the most robust probe of abnormal gamma oscillatory dynamics in schizophrenia. Here, we review recent ASSR studies in patients with schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Preclinical ASSR research, which has contributed to the elucidation of the underlying pathophysiology of these diseases, is also discussed. The developmental trajectory of the ASSR has been explored and may show signs of the maturation and disruption of E/I balance in adolescence. Animal model studies have shown that synaptic interactions between parvalbumin-positive GABAergic interneurons and pyramidal neurons contribute to the regulation of E/I balance, which is related to the generation of gamma oscillation. Therefore, ASSR alteration may be a significant electrophysiological finding related to the E/I imbalance in neuropsychiatric disorders, which is a cross-disease feature and may reflect clinical staging. Future studies regarding ASSR generation, especially in nonhuman primate models, will advance our understanding of the brain circuit and the molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders.
Integrated system architecture for decision-making and urban planning in smart cities
Authors: Pires Felipe Marques , Mendes Leonardo de Souza , Quiñonez Lorena León
Published: August 2019

Research and development of applications for smart cities are extremely relevant considering the various problems that population growth will bring to large urban centers in the next few years. Although research on cyber-physical systems, cloud computing, embedded devices, sensor and actuator networks, and participatory sensing, among other paradigms, is driving the growth of solutions, there are a lot of challenges that need to be addressed. Based on these observations, in this work, we present an integrated system architecture for decision-making support and urban planning by introducing its building blocks (termed components): sensing/actuation, local processing, communication, cloud platform, and application components. In the sensing/actuation component, we present the major relevant resources for data collection, identification devices, and actuators that can be used in smart city solutions. Sensing/actuation component is followed by the local processing component, which is responsible for processing, decision-making support, and control in local scale. The communication component, as the connection element among all these components, is presented with an emphasis on the open-access metropolitan area network and cellular networks. The cloud platform is the essential component for urban planning and integration with electronic governance legacy systems, and finally, the application component, in which the government administrator and users have access to public management tools, citizen services, and other urban planning resources.
The Impact of Increasing Autonomy on Training Requirements in a UAV Supervisory Control Task
Authors: Cummings Mary , Huang Lixiao , Zhu Haibei , Finkelstein Daniel , Wei Ran
Published: August 2019

A common assumption across many industries is that inserting advanced autonomy can often replace humans for low-level tasks, with cost reduction benefits. However, humans are often only partially replaced and moved into a supervisory capacity with reduced training. It is not clear how this shift from human to automation control and subsequent training reduction influences human performance, errors, and a tendency toward automation bias. To this end, a study was conducted to determine whether adding autonomy and skipping skill-based training could influence performance in a supervisory control task. In the human-in-the-loop experiment, operators performed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) search tasks with varying degrees of autonomy and training. At the lowest level of autonomy, operators searched images and, at the highest level, an automated target recognition algorithm presented its best estimate of a possible target, occasionally incorrectly. Results were mixed, with search time not affected by skill-based training. However, novices with skill-based training and automated target search misclassified more targets, suggesting a propensity toward automation bias. More experienced operators had significantly fewer misclassifications when the autonomy erred. A descriptive machine learning model in the form of a hidden Markov model also provided new insights for improved training protocols and interventional technologies.
Assessment of Radiation Protection in Hand-Shielding Products With Mini C-Arm Fluoroscopy
Authors: Cantlon Matthew B. , Ilyas Asif M.
Published: August 2019

Background: Previous studies have highlighted the particular risk of radiation exposure to the surgeon’s hands with intraoperative fluoroscopy. Although evidence exists that shielding equipment for the hands reduces exposure, the extent of protection is not well understood. Therefore, we set out to determine the degree to which radiation exposure to the surgeon’s hands is decreased with hand-shielding products. Methods: An anthropomorphic model was positioned to simulate a surgeon sitting at a hand table. Thermoluminescent dosimeters were placed on the proximal phalanx of each index finger. The right index finger dosimeter was covered with a standard polyisoprene surgical glove (control arm), whereas the left index finger dosimeter was covered with commercially available hand-shielding products (study arm): lead-free metal-oxide gloves, leaded gloves, and radiation-attenuating cream. Mini fluoroscope position, configuration, and settings were standardized. The model was scanned for 15 continuous minutes in each test run, and each comparative arm was run 3 times. Results: The mean radiation dose absorbed by the control and variable dosimeters across all tests was 44.8 mrem (range, 30-54) and 18.6 mrem (range, 14-26), respectively. Each hand-shielding product resulted in statistically lower radiation exposure than a single polyisoprene surgical glove. Conclusions: The mean radiation exposure to the hands was significantly decreased when protected by radiation-attenuating options. Each product individually resulted in a statistically significant decrease in hand exposure compared with the control. We recommend that in addition to efforts to decrease radiation exposure, surgeons consider routine use of hand-shielding products when using mini c-arm fluoroscopy.
Residuals, recurrences and re-treatment after endovascular repair of intracranial aneurysms: A retrospective methodological comparison
Authors: Froelich Jens J , Cheung Nicholas , de Lange Johan AB , Monkhorst Jessica , Carr Michael W , DeLeacy Reade
Published: August 2019

Objective

Incomplete aneurysm occlusions and re-treatment rates of 52 and 10–30%, respectively, have been reported following endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms, raising clinical concerns regarding procedural efficacy. We compare residual, recurrence and re-treatment rates subject to different endovascular techniques in both ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms at a comprehensive state-wide tertiary neurovascular centre in Australia.

Methods

Medical records, procedural and follow-up imaging studies of all patients who underwent endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms between July 2010 and July 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Residuals, recurrences and re-treatment rates were assessed regarding initial aneurysm rupture status and applied endovascular technique: primary coiling, balloon- and stent-assisted coiling and flow diversion.

Results

Among 233 aneurysms, residual, recurrence and re-treatment rates were 27, 11.2 and 9.4%, respectively. Compared with unruptured aneurysms, similar residual and recurrence (p > .05), but higher re-treatment rates (4.5% vs. 19%; p < .001) were found for ruptured aneurysms. Residual, recurrence and re-treatment rates were: 13.3, 16 and 12% for primary coiling; 12, 12 and 10.7% for balloon-assisted coiling; 14.9, 7.5 and 4.5% for stent-assisted coiling; 91.9, 0 and 5.4% for flow diversion. Stent-assistance and flow-diversion were associated with lower recurrence and re-treatment rates, when compared with primary- and balloon-assisted coiling (p < .05).

Conclusions

Residuals and recurrences after endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms are less common than previously reported. Stent assistance and flow diversion seem associated with reduced recurrence- and re-treatment rates, when compared with primary- and balloon-assisted coiling. Restrained use of stents in ruptured aneurysms may be a contributing factor for higher recurrence/retreatment rates compared to unruptured aneurysms.
Toward the integration of lattice structure-based topology optimization and additive manufacturing for the design of turbomachinery components
Authors: Boccini Enrico , Furferi Rocco , Governi Lapo , Meli Enrico , Ridolfi Alessandro , Rindi Andrea , Volpe Yary
Published: August 2019

Used in several industrial fields to create innovative designs, topology optimization is a method to design a structure characterized by maximum stiffness properties and reduced weights. By integrating topology optimization with additive layer manufacturing and, at the same time, by using innovative materials such as lattice structures, it is possible to realize complex three-dimensional geometries unthinkable using traditional subtractive techniques. Surprisingly, the extraordinary potential of topology optimization method (especially when coupled with additive manufacturing and lattice structures) has not yet been extensively developed to study rotating machines. Based on the above considerations, the applicability of topology optimization, additive manufacturing, and lattice structures to the fields of turbomachinery and rotordynamics is here explored. Such techniques are applied to a turbine disk to optimize its performance in terms of resonance and mass reduction. The obtained results are quite encouraging since this approach allows improving existing turbomachinery components’ performance when compared with traditional one.
Investigation on shear strain of reinforced concrete membrane panels subjected to pure shear
Authors: Jeong Je-Pyong , Kang Dae-Hung
Published: August 2019

Hsu recently conducted a shear test on nine reinforced concrete panel elements subjected to applying pure shear using a shear testing device. Modern truss models (i.e. modified compression field theory and a rotating angle softened truss model) are used to perform a complex nonlinear analysis through a trial and error method based on a double loop. This analysis is conducted by employing equilibrium conditions, compatibility conditions, and a ductile stress–strain relationship of a reinforced concrete membrane panel in a biaxial state. In this study, an effective algorithm that uses a revised Mohr compatibility method based on the failure criteria of struts and ties is proposed. This algorithm is used to improve the convergence rate in the analysis of shear history, which was performed in the experiment of Hsu. The result of the analysis indicates that the shear strain energy in a state of extended shear strain is influenced by the relationship between principal compressive stress and strain (crushing failure).
Three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic nanofluid thin-film flow with heat and mass transfer over an inclined porous rotating disk
Authors: Jawad Muhammad , Shah Zahir , Khan Aurangzeb , Islam Saeed , Ullah Hakeem
Published: August 2019

In the present study, the three-dimensional Darcy–Forchheimer magnetohydrodynamic thin-film nanofluid containing flow over an inclined steady rotating plane is observed. Nanofluid thin-film flows are taken thermally radiated and suction/injection effect is also considered. By similarity variables, the partial differential equations are transformed into a set of first-ordinary differential equations (ODES). By Homotopy Analysis Method, the required ODES is solved. The boundary layer over an inclined steady rotating plane is plotted and observed in detail for the velocity, [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] profiles. The influence of various embedded parameters such as variable thickness, [Formula: see text]Pr, and thermophoretic parameter on velocity, [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] profile. The influence of many parameters is explained by graphs for the velocity, [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]. The crucial terms of Nusselt number and Sherwood number have also been observed numerically and physically for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Radiation phenomena is the cause of energy to the liquid system. For more rotation parameters, the thermal boundary-layer thickness is reduced.
Heterogeneity in the vasodilatory function of individual extremities
Authors: Kadoguchi Tomoyasu , Horiuchi Masahiro , Kinugawa Shintaro , Okita Koichi
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Heterogeneity and homogeneity in the flow-mediated dilation of the human body's individual extremities are not fully understood, and the relationship between flow-mediated dilation and local muscle activity is unclear. We assessed the flow-mediated dilation of four individual extremities and sought to determine the contribution of local muscle activity (evaluated as muscle strength) to the flow-mediated dilation in each extremity.

Methods

Thirteen healthy young right-handed nonactive males participated. The flow-mediated dilation in the brachial and popliteal arteries at both arms and legs was assessed by ultrasound Doppler. Muscle strength was evaluated as the grip strength and knee extension.

Results

There was a significant difference in the brachial artery (BA)-FMD values between the subjects' dominant and non-dominant sides (8.0 ± 2.8 vs. 5.5 ± 2.2%, p < 0.05), whereas the two sides showed similar popliteal artery (PA)-FMD values. There was no significant correlation in flow-mediated dilation between the dominant brachial artery and popliteal artery. The BA-FMD was significantly correlated with the grip strength in both upper extremities (dominant: r = 0.562, non-dominant: r = 0.548; p < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion

These results demonstrated heterogeneity in the flow-mediated dilation of individual extremities. We observed that local muscle activity can affect the local vascular function. Measurements of vasodilatory function in individual extremities should thus be carefully considered.
Synthesis and bioactivity of novel C2-glycosyl benzofuranylthiazoles derivatives as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
Authors: Wang Lei , Wu Yu-Ran , Ren Shu-Ting , Yin Long , Wang You-Xian , Liu Shu-Hao , Liu Wei-Wei , Shi Da-Hua , Cao Zhi-Ling , Sun Hui-Min
Published: August 2019

A new series of C2-glycosyl benzofuranylthiazole derivatives was synthesised by the further cyclization of glycosyl thiourea and 2-(bromoacetyl)-benzofuran via Hantzsch’s method. The corresponding 2-(bromoacetyl)-benzofuran derivatives were obtained by the reaction from various salicylaldehydes, and the glycosyl thiourea was prepared through a series of steps from D-Glucosamine. The acetylcholinesterase-inhibitory activities of the products were tested by Ellman’s method. The most active compounds were subsequently evaluated for the 50% inhibitory concentration values. N-(1,3,4,6-tetra-O-benzyl-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranosyl)-4-(5-methoxy-benzofuran-2-yl)-1,3-thiazole-2-amine possessed the best acetylcholinesterase-inhibition activity with a 50% inhibitory concentration of 2.03 ± 0.26 μM.
Subordination and Legitimation of Self-Publishing: Shifting the Basis for Evaluation of Cultural Goods
Authors: Fürst Henrik
Published: August 2019

A do-it-yourself culture and amateur production are significant features of creative industries. Self-publishing is an eloquent expression of these features. Self-publishers invest in and make decisions to publish their creative goods without the involvement of an established and external production company or publishing house. In creative industries, claims are made about the inferior quality of self-published works, creating a stigma for self-publishing. This article investigates the ways in which aspiring writers who are considering self-publishing, handle the tension between their aspiration to publish a book and the possible stigma of self-publishing. The study draws on an analysis of interviews with 59 writers who are considering self-publishing as an option or who have self-published a book. The aspiring writers are aware of the subordinate status of such publications and while some avoid self-publishing, others seek ways to establish and legitimise the quality of their work to avoid the stigma. Legitimisation is produced through the perception of a transitioning author role and by shifting the basis of evaluation of publishability to the consumer side in creative industries, to non-professional judgement, and to the experience of being published. The outcome of the decision to self-publish, and the underpinning culture for making such assessments, has consequences for how books and other cultural goods are currently produced and the type of cultural goods that reach consumers. The assessment of self-publishing as an option among writers exposes tensions and transformations in the evaluation of cultural goods in contemporary creative industries.
Re-motion total wrist arthroplasty: 39 non-rheumatoid cases with a mean follow-up of 7 years
Authors: Froschauer Stefan M. , Zaussinger Maximilian , Hager Dietmar , Behawy Manfred , Kwasny Oskar , Duscher Dominik
Published: August 2019

We evaluated the outcomes of the Re-motion total wrist arthroplasty in 39 non-rheumatoid patients. The mean follow-up was 7 years (range 3–12). Postoperative wrist flexion-extension and radial-ulnar deviation as well as the scores of the Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and the visual analogue scale pain scores improved significantly. Complications occurred in 13 wrists, five of which required further surgery. The most frequent complication was impingement between the scaphoid and the radial implant (n = 5), which can be avoided by complete or almost complete scaphoid resection. Periprosthetic radiolucency developed around the radial component in three cases and three radial screws loosened. Despite the incidence of high implant survival in 38 of 39 wrists over 7 years (97%), the complication rate is not satisfying. Knowledge of the risk of complications and patient selection are essential when making the decision to choose wrist arthroplasty over arthrodesis.

Level of evidence: IV
Upper limb surgery for severe spasticity after acquired brain injury improves ease of care
Authors: Gschwind Claudia R. , Yeomans Jayne L. , Smith Belinda J.
Published: August 2019

For individuals with acquired brain injury and severe upper limb spasticity, personal care is often difficult, time-consuming and painful. Previous studies on outcomes after surgery for upper limb spasticity have focused on functional gain, pain, hygiene and appearance. We operated on 38 non-communicative patients (45 limbs, 535 procedures) with severe spasticity and a non-functional upper limb(s). The surgical goals were to provide opening of the fingers and thumb, wrist stability and, if required, to release muscles around the elbow and shoulder. We used the Carer Burden Score as a relevant outcome measure. Preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively, the carer rated the degree of difficulty in cleaning the palm, cutting the fingernails, cleaning the axilla and dressing the upper body on a 5-point Likert scale. Surgery significantly improved the ease of care, which has implications not only for the patient but also for carers and associated health costs.

Level of evidence: IV
Clinical thresholds of symptoms for deciding on surgery for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis
Authors: Marks Miriam , Grobet Cécile , Audigé Laurent , Herren Daniel B.
Published: August 2019

The severity of preoperative symptoms at which patients are likely to achieve a minimal important change and patient acceptable symptom state after surgery may help the decision to perform surgery for trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis. The study objective was to define these thresholds for pain at rest and during activities as well as for the brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. One hundred and fifty-one patients were examined before surgery and 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. The minimal important change after surgery was 1.9, 3.9 and 16 scores for pain at rest, pain during activities and the brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, respectively. The respective patient acceptable symptom state values were 1.5, 2.5 and 70 after surgery. Our results show that patients with baseline pain values between 3.5 and 5.5 at rest, between 6.5 and 7.5 during activities and a presurgery brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire score of about 47, have the greatest chance of achieving a relevant symptom change and an acceptable symptom state. The information from this study may help surgeons in deciding the surgical indications and help patients in their expectation in symptom relief after surgery.

Level of evidence: IV
Peripheral nerve disease secondary to systemic conditions in children
Authors: Wilmshurst Jo M. , Ouvrier Robert A. , Ryan Monique M.
Published: August 2019

This review is an overview of systemic conditions that can be associated with peripheral nervous system dysfunction. Children may present with neuropathic symptoms for which, unless considered, a causative systemic condition may not be recognized. Similarly, some systemic conditions may be complicated by comorbid peripheral neuropathies, surveillance for which is indicated. The systemic conditions addressed in this review are critical illness polyneuropathy, chronic renal failure, endocrine disorders such as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2b, vitamin deficiency states, malignancies and reticuloses, sickle cell disease, neurofibromatosis, connective tissue disorders, bowel dysmotility and enteropathy, and sarcoidosis. In some disorders presymptomatic screening should be undertaken, while in others there is no benefit from early detection of neuropathy. In children with idiopathic peripheral neuropathies, systemic disorders such as celiac disease should be actively excluded. While management is predominantly focused on symptomatic care through pain control and rehabilitation, some neuropathies improve with effective control of the underlying etiology and in a small proportion a more targeted approach is possible. In conclusion, peripheral neuropathies can be associated with a diverse range of medical conditions and unless actively considered may not be recognized and inadequately managed.
Impact of perioperative blood transfusions on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for major urologic malignancies
Authors: Abu-Ghanem Yasmin , Ramon Jacob
Published: August 2019

The association between allogeneic perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) and decreased survival among patients undergoing various oncological surgeries has been established in various malignant diseases, including colorectal, thoracic and hepatocellular cancer. However, when focusing on urologic tumors, the significance of PBT and its adverse effect remains debatable, mainly due to inconsistency between studies. Nevertheless, the rate of PBT remains high and may reach up to 62% in patients undergoing major urologic surgeries. Hence, the relatively high rate of PBT among related operations, along with the increasing prevalence of several urologic tumors, give this topic great significance in clinical practice. Indeed, recent retrospective studies, followed by systematic reviews in both prostate and bladder cancer surgery have supported the association that has been demonstrated in several malignancies, while other major urologic malignancies, including renal cell carcinoma and upper tract urothelial carcinoma, have also been addressed retrospectively. It is only a matter of time before the data will be sufficient for qualitative systematic review/qualitative evidence synthesis. In the current study, we performed a literature review to define the association between PBT and the oncological outcomes in patients who undergo surgery for major urologic malignancies. We believe that the current review of the literature will increase awareness of the importance and relevance of this issue, as well as highlight the need for evidence-based standards for blood transfusion as well as more controlled transfusion thresholds.
Tildrakizumab in the treatment of psoriasis: latest evidence and place in therapy
Authors: Pithadia Deeti J. , Reynolds Kelly A. , Lee Erica B. , Liao Wilson , Wu Jashin J.
Published: August 2019

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that is clinically characterized by scaly cutaneous plaques. New evidence suggests that dysregulation of interleukin (IL)-23, a key cytokine in the T-helper-17 pathway, plays a vital role in the development of psoriatic systemic inflammation. The novel biologic medication tildrakizumab is among the first drugs with specific action against IL-23 that has recently been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Tildrakizumab has been shown in large randomized controlled trials to be effective in improving skin manifestations as well as enhancing quality of life outcomes in patients with psoriasis. Its simple dosing, prolonged duration of action, and mild adverse event profile make it a practical option for patients; however, only a small number of trials have investigated the clinical effectiveness of tildrakizumab, and long-term data regarding the drug’s efficacy and safety are currently limited. Hence, further research is needed to better understand the risks and benefits of tildrakizumab. This review summarizes and analyzes phase I, phase II, and phase III clinical trials that investigate the mechanism, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of tildrakizumab. It also identifies areas in which additional studies are warranted to further elucidate the advantages of tildrakizumab over other biologic therapies.