bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative Analysis of Beliefs About Sexual Consent Among High School Students
Authors: Righi Mary Kirtley , Bogen Katherine W. , Kuo Caroline , Orchowski Lindsay M.
Published: April 2019

Examining how adolescents understand the concept of sexual consent, and expect to garner or confer consent in sexual encounters, can contribute to the design of age- and developmentally appropriate prevention programs that promote healthy adolescent dating and sexual relationships. The current qualitative study utilized semi-structured in-depth interviews ( N = 33) to explore perceptions of sexual consent among high school students (ages 14-18). Thematic analysis identified three salient themes pertaining to (a) the definition of consent as indicating a verbal “yes” to engage in sexual activity, (b) beliefs that an array of verbal and nonverbal strategies would be utilized to garner or convey consent in actual sexual encounters, and (c) expectations that consent would be communicated differently following an initial sexual encounter. Specifically, whereas consent was defined as a verbal provision of affirmative consent, both male and female adolescents believed girls typically conveyed consent nonverbally in sexual encounters. Adolescent girls indicated that they would convey sexual refusal through nonverbal cues, whereas adolescent boys reported they would proceed with sexual activity until they heard the verbal expression of “no.” Regardless of gender, participants shared the perception that adolescents who previously engaged in sexual activity can expect that sexual activity will happen again without the need for verbal consent, particularly within established relationships. These findings highlight important discrepancies in adolescents’ definition of sexual consent—primarily through verbal consent—and how they behaviorally indicated sexual consent and sexual refusal—primarily through nonverbal actions.
IZOD impact properties of full-density fused deposition modeling polymer materials with respect to raster angle and print orientation
Authors: Patterson Albert E , Pereira Tais Rocha , Allison James T , Messimer Sherri L
Published: April 2019

One of the fundamental characteristics of additively processed materials is that they are naturally anisotropic; this variance in mechanical properties is primarily generated through the formulation of patterned shell and in-filled regions within the material during processing. This paper describes the formulation and results of a study to ascertain the impact strength of various full–infill polymer-based materials processed in various orientations and angles via fused deposition modeling. Ten different materials were tested using seven different hatch angles and three print orientations. Seven different pure materials were tested, as well as three composites; these were acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, standard polylactic acid, high-temperature polylactic acid, high-impact polystyrene, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate + glycol, polycarbonate, aluminum polylactic acid, wood polylactic acid, and carbon–fiber polylactic acid. All experiments were carried out using ASTM IZOD Type E tests with a 2.7J pendulum. Five replications of each test combination were collected, for a total of 1050 tests. The results showed that the shell orientation and raster angle were primary drivers in determining impact properties, as they strongly influenced the crack length and path though the material during fracture. This was especially clear for the polycarbonate, nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate + glycol which underwent large plastic deformation during the tests. It was further observed that the impact toughness was inversely correlated with test repeatability, with the toughest materials having the highest variability between test replications.
An integrated algorithm for hypersonic fluid–thermal–structural analysis of aerodynamically heated cylindrical leading edge
Authors: Li Jiawei , Wang Jiangfeng
Published: April 2019

The accurate and efficient prediction of the fluid–thermal–structural performance of thermal protection systems on hypersonic vehicles to protect against severe aerodynamic heating is attracting increasing worldwide attention. In this paper, a new integrated fluid-structural-thermal investigation based on the finite volume method is proposed to study the thermal behavior of aerodynamically heated cylinder leading edges in hypersonic flows. A unified integral equation system is developed based on the governing equations for the physical processes of aerodynamic heating and structural heat transfer, which is resolved by using an up-wind finite volume method and a new two-thermal-resistance model in one integrated, vectorized computer program. To demonstrate its capability and reliability, applications for steady/unsteady fluid–thermal–structural analysis are demonstrated on aerodynamically heated cylinder leading edges at Ma 6.47. The results show that the steady maximum temperature of the cylinder can reach approximately 648 K at the stagnation point, and the unsteady results are in good agreement with the experimental data and related references. Compared with the partitioned approach, the integrated method shows better computational stability with relatively small sensitivity to mesh scale and time step, reducing the computation time for the same unsteady case by approximately 50%. The present study indicates that the integrated approach has potential for significant improvements and efficiency in predicting long-endurance fluid-structural-thermal problems of hypersonic vehicles.
Generation of disturbances in the boundary layer of a flat plate by periodic low-frequency motion of the surface section
Authors: Katasonov Mikhail M , Kozlov Victor V , Pavlenko Alexandr M
Published: April 2019

The development of localized disturbances, generated by periodic impulse lifting of three-dimensional surface in the flat plate boundary layer at Reδ1 > 400 is experimentally investigated. It is shown that a large amplitude surface lifting leads simultaneously to the formation of two types of perturbations in the boundary layer: longitudinal localized structures and two wave packets. Spatial development of oscillations at the central frequency of the wave packets is consistent with the linear theory of hydrodynamic stability.
CXC chemokine ligand 1 mediates adiponectin-induced angiogenesis in ovarian cancer
Authors: Ouh Yung-Taek , Cho Hyun Woong , Lee Jae Kwan , Choi Song Hee , Choi Hyun Jin , Hong Jin Hwa
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

Adiponectin is a cytokine secreted from adipose tissue that regulates energy homeostasis, inflammation, and cell proliferation. Obesity is associated with increased risk of various cancers, including ovarian cancer. Adipokines, including adiponectin, have been implicated as a factor linking obesity and carcinogenesis. The oncogenic role of adiponectin is not known with regard to various cancer types. We sought to determine the role of adiponectin in angiogenesis in ovarian cancer in vitro.

Methods:

We transfected SKOV3 cells with vascular endothelial growth factor small interfering RNA in order to identify the independent angiogenic role of adiponectin in ovarian cancer. The vascular endothelial growth factor knockdown SKOV3 cell lines were treated with adiponectin for 48 h. The cytokines involved in adiponectin-mediated angiogenesis were explored using the human angiogenesis cytokine array and were verified with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The angiogenic effect of adiponectin was evaluated using the human umbilical vein endothelial cell tube formation assay. We also investigated the effects of adiponectin treatment on the migration and invasion of SKOV3 cells.

Results:

The number of tubes formed by human umbilical vein endothelial cell decreased significantly after knockdown of vascular endothelial growth factor (via transfection of vascular endothelial growth factor small interfering RNA into SKOV3 cells). When these vascular endothelial growth factor knockdown SKOV3 cells were treated with adiponectin, there was an increase in the number of tubes in a tube formation assay. Following adiponectin treatment, the CXC chemokine ligand 1 secretion increased in a cytokine array. This was confirmed by both enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot. The increased secretion of CXC chemokine ligand 1 by adiponectin occurred regardless of vascular endothelial growth factor knockdown. In addition, the induction of migration and invasion of SKOV3 cells were significantly stronger with adiponectin treatment than they were without.

Conclusion:

Adiponectin treatment of ovarian cancer cells induces angiogenesis via CXC chemokine ligand 1 independently of vascular endothelial growth factor. These findings suggest that adiponectin may serve as a novel therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.
Association of expression of inflammatory response genes and DNA repair genes in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Germini Demétrius Eduardo , Franco Maria Isete Fares , Fonseca Fernando Luiz Affonso , de Sousa Gehrke Flávia , da Costa Aguiar Alves Reis Beatriz , Cardili Leonardo , Oshima Celina Tizuko Fujiyama , Theodoro Thérèse Rachell , Waisberg Jaques
Published: April 2019

Inflammation is an important etiological factor of colorectal carcinoma and may be related to colorectal carcinoma growth and proliferation. This study aimed to verify whether the presence of chronic inflammation represented by tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, and interleukin-10 gene expression is related to hMLH1, hMSH2, hMSH6, and PMS2 gene expression and the corresponding protein levels of these genes from the DNA repair system. A total of 83 patients were operated on for curative or palliative colorectal carcinoma. Expression of the inflammatory response genes tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, and interleukin-10 as well as expression of the hMLH1, hMSH2, hMSH6, and PMS2 genes of the DNA repair system (mismatch repair) and the expression levels of the corresponding mismatch repair proteins were measured in neoplastic tissue by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Associations were observed between hMSH6 mRNA expression and interleukin-2 mRNA expression (p = 0.026) as well as between hMLH1 and hMSH2 gene expression and tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression (p = 0.042). Higher tissue levels of interleukin-2 and tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression were associated with lower hMSH6, hMLH1, and hMSH2 gene expression.
Corporate social responsibility, human rights and law firms
Authors: Carr Claudia
Published: April 2019

An increase in the power and reach of corporations has driven increasing concern with corporate responsibility. The social impact of corporations, including law firms, includes any interactions with human rights. This article argues that Australian law firms should engage more actively with human rights standards, and ensure that they are not unwittingly complicit in human rights violations. It identifies key areas in which law firms’ conduct may impact human rights, and suggests corporate responsibility practices and policies for adoption.
Evaluation of an immunochromatographic strip for detection of avian avulavirus 1 (Newcastle disease virus)
Authors: Li Qingmei , Wang Li , Sun Yaning , Liu Jinling , Ma Fansu , Yang Jifei , Zhao Dong , Zhang Yuhang , Luo Jun , Guo Junqing , Deng Ruiguang , Zhang Gaiping
Published: April 2019

We evaluated an immunochromatographic strip for the detection of avian avulavirus 1 (Newcastle disease virus, NDV) based on a high-affinity monoclonal antibody (mAb) that specifically recognizes the hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) protein. The anti-HN mAb was labeled with colloidal gold as the detector. A chicken anti-NDV polyclonal antibody and staphylococcal protein A (SPA) were blotted on the nitrocellulose membrane for the test and control lines, respectively. The strip specifically recognized the NDV antigen with no cross-reactivity to other viruses that were examined. Furthermore, it specifically recognized a variety of NDV isolates, including virulent and attenuated strains. These results were confirmed using hemagglutination (HA) and RT-PCR assays. The NDV detection strip detected 104.9 EID50 viruses/0.1 mL in the NDV-infected sample, which is comparable to the classical HA test (105.2 EID50/0.1 mL). Following experimental infection, NDV was detected using the detection strip in infected tissues as early as 36 h after experimental infection and prior to development of clinical signs and appearance of gross anatomic lesions. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the NDV detection strip for NDV infection were 83.3% and 100%, respectively, as confirmed by RT-PCR.
Anaplasma spp. in dairy ruminants in Jordan: high individual and herd-level seroprevalence and association with abortions
Authors: Obaidat Mohammad M. , Salman Alaa E. Bani
Published: April 2019

We estimated the seroprevalence of, and associated risk factors for, anaplasmosis in dairy cows, sheep, and goats in all regions of Jordan. Apparently healthy animals from 135 farms (31 cow, 68 sheep, and 36 goat farms) were tested for Anaplasma spp. antibodies by a competitive ELISA. At the farm level, 36%, 94%, and 94% of cow, sheep, and goat farms, respectively, were seropositive for Anaplasma spp. At the individual animal level, 22%, 89%, and 82% of the tested cows, sheep, and goats, respectively, were seropositive, which demonstrates widespread and high seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in dairy farms in Jordan. Seroprevalence did not vary between regions. Using the Fisher exact test, there was a significant association between high seroprevalence and recent abortion in small ruminants. There is an urgent need for further investigation of this disease, and the potential role of Anaplasma spp. in abortions, on dairy farms in Jordan.
Gastrointestinal impactions in backyard poultry
Authors: Huang Anny S. , Carvallo Francisco R. , Pitesky Maurice E. , Stoute Simone , Mete Aslı
Published: April 2019

In contrast to conventional commercial poultry, which are raised primarily in controlled indoor environments, backyard poultry are typically raised in less restricted settings, potentially exposing them to a greater variety of ingestible substances, including multiple types of forage. Consequently, problems such as gastrointestinal impactions caused by ingesta have been noted in backyard poultry. To determine the prevalence of these impactions in backyard poultry, we performed a retrospective database search for autopsy submissions to the California Animal Health and Food Safety laboratory system and found that gastrointestinal impaction was associated with the death of 42 backyard poultry cases (40 chickens, 1 turkey, and 1 goose) from January 2013 to July 2018. In 32 of these 42 (76%) cases, the impaction was caused by fibrous plant material, 7 (17%) by compacted feed, and 3 (7%) by miscellaneous ingesta (tortilla, plastic, and wood shavings). The large proportion of grass impactions indicate that foraging is the predominant source of impaction material in backyard poultry, and that long grasses may be a significant health hazard for poultry. Backyard, pasture-raised, and free-range poultry producers are advised to maintain short pastures, avoid feeds that may expand in the gastrointestinal tract, and provide adequate grit to prevent impactions.
Surveillance for Avibacterium paragallinarum in autopsy cases of birds from small chicken flocks using a real-time PCR assay
Authors: Clothier Kristin A. , Torain Andrea , Reinl Steve
Published: April 2019

Infectious coryza is a severe respiratory disease of chickens associated with large economic losses in affected commercial flocks. The fastidious causative pathogen, Avibacterium paragallinarum, is difficult to recover and identify, resulting in delayed diagnosis and enhanced spread of the agent. Small poultry flocks are increasingly common in rural and suburban environments. We assessed the frequency of A. paragallinarum using real-time PCR and clinical conditions present in samples from such flocks submitted to the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (Davis, CA) in 2018. From the 294 samples collected for our study, 86 (30%) were PCR-positive for A. paragallinarum. Juvenile birds (≤1 y) were significantly more likely to be PCR-positive ( p = 0.017), and birds diagnosed with respiratory disease had lower Ct values ( p = 0.001) than those without. Concurrent infections were also identified, including with Mycoplasma gallisepticum (18.6%), M. synoviae (18.6%), infectious bronchitis virus (12.8%), and infectious laryngotracheitis virus (7.0%). Only 46.5% of PCR-positive chickens had antemortem respiratory signs, making endemic infections in these flocks highly likely. Our study demonstrates that A. paragallinarum is present in small-flock operations including those without respiratory disease and may present a risk for airborne pathogen transmission to commercial poultry operations.
Forefoot Reconstruction Following Metatarsal Head Resection Arthroplasty With a Plantar Approach—A 20-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Simon Maciej J. K. , Strahl André , Mussawy Haider , Rolvien Tim , Schumacher Robert F. , Seller Marcel , Rüther Wolfgang
Published: April 2019

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause significant forefoot disorders. If forefoot deformity and pain are severe, surgical treatment can be considered. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcomes of surgical forefoot correction per Tillmann, which involves resection of the metatarsal heads through a transverse plantar approach for the lesser toes and a dorsomedial approach to the great toe.

Methods:

This retrospective study used patient-based questionnaires to analyze the revision rate, pain, use of orthoses, walking ability, forefoot function, and patient satisfaction of patients with RA who had undergone a complete forefoot correction of metatarsophalangeal (MTP) I to V. The study only included participants with RA before the era of biological agents and who were at least 20 years postoperatively. A total of 60 patients who had undergone 100 complete forefoot operations according to Tillmann 24.6 ± 3.5 years ago were included in this study.

Results:

The data collected showed that 35 reoperations were performed on 26 of the patients. Deformity relapses were often documented for the hallux valgus. More than 60% of the patients were able to wear conventional shoes. The distances the participants were able to walk were significantly increased by wearing shoes when compared with walking barefoot ( P < .01).

Conclusion:

While forefoot function remained difficult to assess, the majority of patients were able to use conventional shoes. This long-term follow-up study of patient-reported questionnaires completed more than 20 years after the Tillmann procedure showed that more than 80% of the patients remained satisfied with the outcome.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective cohort study.
Quality evaluation of sweet potato powder-enriched cereal products
Authors: Lauková Michaela , Minarovičová Lucia , Karovičová Jolana , Kohajdová Zlatica
Published: April 2019

The effects of wheat flour substitution by sweet potato powder on rheological parameters of wheat dough and physical parameters of cookies and crackers were analyzed. Wheat flour was substituted with sweet potato powder at level 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. Sweet potato powder was characterized by high water holding capacity (9.00 g/g) and swelling capacity (8.16 cm3/g). The addition of sweet potato powder significantly changed the rheological properties of wheat dough (water absorption and mixing tolerance index were increased, dough stability was reduced, and dough development time was prolonged). It was also found that volumes of cookies and crackers were decreased, and spread ratios were increased with the addition of sweet potato powder. Lightness of baked products decreased and yellowness increased with the addition of sweet potato powder. Incorporation of sweet potato powder significantly decreased the hardness of cookies and crackers. Sensory evaluation showed that the most acceptable cookies and crackers were the ones obtained after the addition of sweet potato powder at level 2.5% and 7.5%, respectively.
The Influence of Online Review Exposure on Reviewers’ Intensity Level of Negative Word of Mouth
Authors: Rouliez Paulette , Tojib Dewi , Tsarenko Yelena
Published: April 2019

Nowadays to post online review is becoming a common practice. However, apart from limited studies, little is known how online reviews can prejudice subsequent reviews. Our three experimental studies demonstrate that following negative service experiences, reviewers are influenced by earlier posted reviews when writing their own reviews. Exposing reviewers to negative (positive) valence reviews encourages them to write reviews with a higher (lower) intensity level of negative word of mouth (n-wom). Their level of immersion in the earlier posted reviews (i.e., perceived transportation) is the underlying explanatory mechanism behind this relationship. However, this mediating effect is stronger for novice (vs. expert) reviewers. Illuminating the potential influence of online reviews, this research suggests that online reviews should not be embraced literally by consumers and firms but should be utilized judiciously to enhance their service experiences and service quality.
Co-ordinating meaning within a gender identity development service: What can the theory of the co-ordinated management of meaning offer clinicians working with young people, and their families, exploring their gender identities
Authors: Miller Ashley , Davidson Sarah
Published: April 2019

Working with young people who present with diverse gender identifications and their families requires consideration and acknowledgement of a range of contexts (including relationship, family, social and cultural) as well as the influences of prior experience and language. Family members often present with diverse understandings and hopes from their referral to the Gender Identity Development Service and look to us to meet these. This article considers the contribution of Cronen and Pearce who introduced the theory of the co-ordinated management of meaning (CMM). We focus on their ideas about communication, the complexities of communication, meaning, context and multiple perspectives. This article relates to our practice as well as considers useful ways to work with families and young people, within a highly contested field. Clinical examples are used to illustrate how we have made use of the theory and models of CMM to facilitate engagement, build therapeutic rapport, facilitate understanding and support those we see in a way which takes into account the many contexts of their lives.
Reflections on ‘Thinking an Ethics of Gender Exploration: Against Delaying Transition for Transgender and Gender Variant Youth’
Authors: Wren Bernadette
Published: April 2019

In this short article are offered some brief reflections on the commissioned response to my article on ethical issues arising in the provision of medical interventions for gender diverse children. Ashley argues for the importance of ‘an ethics of exploration’ which prioritises making opportunities for fluid, open-ended reflection by gender diverse children and young people, operating through and alongside, rather than prior to, social and medical transition. While noting significant areas of shared outlook between Ashley and myself, I correct some assumptions that Ashley may be making about the range of young people seen at the UK Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) and the way we work clinically within a developmental framework. I highlight my reasons for thinking that there are particular concerns arising in the care of the very young. Finally, I reiterate my view that professionals cannot so easily abandon altogether an ‘ethic of prediction’ and surrender their responsibilities and accountabilities in this area of clinical practice.
Conduct in Dementia: Video Analysis of Arts Interventions
Authors: Morgner Christian , Hazel Spencer , Schneider Justine , Tischler Victoria
Published: April 2019

This study applies video analysis to an investigation of interactions among people with dementia in a cultural context, specifically a visual art exhibition in a gallery. The study adopts a sociologically informed approach to explore the role of artworks and how these may be beneficial to dementia care, by focusing on meaning-making conversational practices among people living with dementia. The interactions of different individuals with various forms of dementia were recorded during three gallery visits, including their engagement with gallery attendants and artworks. The findings reveal the socially empowering impact of interactions related to artwork, with complex patterns in bodily behaviour and facial expressions meaning that orientation to dementia became negligible. The article makes a contribution to the growing field of sociology of ageing and well-being from an interaction analytic perspective, indicating that cultural values can play a greater role in the care of people living with dementia.
History, violence and collective memory: Implications for mental health in Ecuador
Authors: Capella Manuel , Jadhav Sushrut , Moncrieff Joanna
Published: April 2019

National histories of violence shape experiences of suffering and the ways that mental health professionals respond to them. In Ecuador, mental health literature addressing this crucial issue is scarce and little debated. In contrast, local psychiatrists and psychologists within the country face contemporary challenges that are deeply rooted in a violent colonial past and the perpetuation of its fundamental ethos. This paper critically reviews relevant literature on collective memory and historical trauma, and focuses on Ecuador as a case study on how to incorporate history into modern mental health challenges. The discussion poses key questions and outlines possible ways for Ecuador to address the link between history and mental health, including insights from countries that have struggled with their violent pasts. This paper contributes to ongoing international debate on the role of cultural history in mental health with implications for social scientists and practising clinicians in former colonised nations.
The public debate on organ donation and presumed consent in Denmark: Are the right issues being addressed?
Authors: Jensen Anja M. B. , Larsen Johanne Bjørg
Published: April 2019

The legal framework for organ donation in Denmark is informed consent. But due to the unsatisfactory number of organ donors, Denmark is considering changing legislation to presumed consent. This article discusses the public debate on organ donation and presumed consent in Denmark, and asks whether the right issues are being addressed in the quest towards more available organs and better donor rates? Basing our considerations on the various arguments in the debate and on scientific findings, we question the potential benefits of presumed consent and challenge some of the assumptions and rationalizations that characterize the discussions in Denmark regarding public support, public trust and the role of the family in donation decisions.
Gender equality and sick leave among first-time parents in Sweden
Authors: Lidwall Ulrik , Voss Margaretha
Published: April 2019

Aims: To examine gender equality in the family and sick leave among first-time parents. Methods: Heterosexuals who became first-time parents between 2002 and 2009 ( N = 223,332) were identified in national registers. Gender equality in the family was evaluated by parental insurance and income from gainful employment representing the domestic and work spheres respectively and was defined as each parent contributing 40–60% of the family total. The risk of a new medically certified sick-leave spell (>14 days) was evaluated by hazard ratio (HR) using the Cox proportional hazard regression, adjusted for demographic and socioeconomic factors. Results: Gender equality was associated with an increased risk of sick leave compared with traditional roles where women had the main responsibility in the domestic sphere and men in the work sphere (HR 1.30 in women and 1.19 in men). In addition, situations with one partner exposed to double burden or untraditional settings were associated with an increased risk. Conclusions: Equal sharing or taking the lion’s share of paid work and domestic responsibilities were associated with an increased risk of sick leave among first-time parents in Sweden. Family-friendly policies are important for facilitating the life of dual earner families, but do not fully counteract the work–life demands of first-time parents.
Efficacy of tranexamic acid in traumatic brain injury: Updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alhelaly Mohamed Magdy , Soliman Ahmed Magdy , Khaled Anas , Ellotf Hamed , Attia Mahmoud Mohamed , Elmaraezy Ahmed
Published: April 2019

Background and objectives

There is weak evidence for the efficacy of tranexamic acid in decreasing traumatic brain injury complications or improving clinical and radiological outcomes. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to update the current evidence and to assess the efficacy of tranexamic acid in different outcomes.

Methods

A computer literature search of Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane central register of controlled trials was performed to identify relevant articles including only randomized-controlled trials. RevMan 5.3 software was used for data analysis.

Results

Four randomized-controlled trials were included. All studies were included in the quantitative and qualitative analysis. The analysis showed significant reduction of intracranial hemorrhage growth (progression) events (risk ratio = 0.77; 95% confidence interval 0.61 to 0.98), with no significant difference in reduction of total (volumetric) hemorrhage growth (mean difference = −2.46; 95% confidence interval −6.53 to 1.60; p = 0.23). There was no difference in risk between tranexamic acid and placebo for mortality (risk ratio = 0.64; 95% confidence interval 0.41 to 1), need for neurosurgical intervention (risk ratio = 0.96; 95% confidence interval 0.61 to 1.51), re-bleed (new hemorrhage) (risk ratio = 0.90; 95% confidence interval 0.57 to 1.41), hemorrhagic mass pressure effect on brain tissue (risk ratio = 0.81; 95% confidence interval 0.65 to 1.01), or unfavorable functional status at discharge (risk ratio = 0.78; 95% confidence interval 0.57 to 1.06).

Conclusions

Tranexamic acid significantly reduced intracranial hemorrhage growth events. There were non-significant results for all other included radiological and clinical outcomes. Large trials are needed for further exploration of the efficacy and proper dosing.
Machine learning applied to pack classification
Authors: Hang Weiqiang , Banks Timothy
Published: April 2019

Pack or product classification is a quite common task in market research, particularly for sales tracking audits and related services. Electronic data sources have led to increased volumes, both in the sales volume being tracked and also the number of packs (or stock keeping units). The increase in packs needing to be classified presents a problem, in that, it needs to be done accurately and quickly. Traditional solutions using people for the classifications can be costly, due to the large number of people required to process the classifications in a timely and accurate manner. Reducing the manual work is a priority for audit-based market research businesses, leading to interest in automation, such as through machine learning techniques. In this article, we apply such methods. These include support vector machine, decision tree, XGBoost, AdaBoost, random forest, and neural network–based methods that are trained on the textual descriptions of already classified packs. We also implement a hierarchical classification method to take advantage of the structure of classes of the products. Once the models are trained, they can be used on unclassified data. Where the methods are not confident in their classifications, humans can be asked to classify. The hope is that the methods can learn to classify accurately enough that the manual workloads are reduced to manageable levels. This article reviews various methods and then outlines tests using these methods on two datasets collected by Nielsen, showing good performance.
An Examination of the Functions of a General Education Art Curriculum in Universities
Authors: Shih Yi-Huang
Published: April 2019

Both domestic and foreign universities offer arts courses as part of the general education curriculum. This alone reveals the value of arts courses in a university general education. Further, a general education art curriculum has certain functions within a university. In this article, I explore these functions. For this reason, the method of literature analysis is used by the author. First, this article explores the objective of general education in universities. Second, the necessity of arts courses for a general education curriculum in a university is discussed. Third and finally, this article examines the functions of a general education art curriculum in universities. According to the results, the functions are as follows: (1) cultivating the aesthetic subject consciousness of students; (2) cultivating the knowledge and humanity of students; (3) enhancing the aesthetic ability of students, and helping students understand local traditional arts; (4) promoting students' diverse abilities; (5) equipping students with the competence of artistic thinking, including knowledge integration and expression; and (6) cultivating broad worldviews and humanistic caring among students.
Interwoven Nitinol Stents to Treat Radiocephalic Anastomotic Arteriovenous Fistula Stenosis
Authors: Thomas Shannon D. , Peden Samantha , Crowe Phillip , Varcoe Ramon L.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To determine the clinical outcomes in hemodialysis patients after implantation of a Supera stent to treat juxta-anastomotic stenosis in radiocephalic arteriovenous fistulas (AVF). Materials and Methods: A single-center retrospective study was conducted of 42 consecutive patients (mean age 66.7 years, range 40–84; 26 men) who had a failing AVF due to juxta-anastomotic stenosis treated with the interwoven Supera stent between February 2014 and February 2018. A third of the patients had previous juxta-anastomotic intervention (either balloon angioplasty or open surgical revision). Results: The stent was inserted successfully in all patients. Overall mean follow-up was 12.2±8.2 months (range 3.8–38.3). Juxta-anastomotic segment primary patency estimates at 6 and 12 months were 92.5% and 59.8%, respectively, with assisted primary patency rates of 97.5% and 92.9%. Reintervention (elective drug-coated balloon angioplasty) occurred at a rate of 0.31 procedures/year. Two AVFs thrombosed during the 1-year follow-up and were revascularized using balloon angioplasty. Ultrasound measurements of brachial artery flow rates increased significantly from 543.5±96.72 mL/min (range 430–644) before intervention to 919.2±355.9 mL/min (range 200–1600) after intervention (p=0.047). Arterial pressures on hemodialysis improved from −142.3±24.9 mm Hg (range −100 to −180) to −123.4±21.9 mm Hg (range −100 to −184; p=0.051). No AVFs were lost or abandoned during the follow-up period. Conclusion: The interwoven Supera stent is a promising treatment for failing AVFs with juxta-anastomotic stenosis. Encouraging 1-year primary and assisted primary patency was demonstrated, with a low reintervention rate. This treatment facilitates long-term maintenance of AVF vascular accesses.
The Pronator Quadratus Muscle After Volar Plating: Ultrasound Evaluation of Anatomical Changes Correlated to Patient-Reported Clinical Outcome
Authors: Sonntag Jesper , Hern Jesper , Woythal Linn , Branner Ulrik , Lange Kai H. W. , Brorson Stig
Published: April 2019

Background: Repair of the pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle with sutures has been reported durable after volar plating of distal radius fractures (DRF). It is unclear how the muscle reacts if not repaired and if a retracted muscle correlates to worse functional outcome or complications. In this study, we use ultrasound to investigate the anatomy of the PQ muscle after volar plating with PQ repair or nonrepair and correlate the ultrasound findings with patient-reported outcome. Methods: Participants were recruited from a clinical trial where they were randomly allocated to repair or nonrepair of the PQ muscle after volar plating of DRF. The participants and radiologist were blinded to group allocation. Ultrasound imaging of both fractured and contralateral wrists was performed 3 months after surgery. Ultrasound measurements included the difference in length of PQ muscle between the injured and uninjured side, retraction of PQ muscle, and tendon complications. The length and number of retractions were correlated to complications and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE). Results: The mean difference of the difference in length measurements was 4.4 mm in the nonrepair group and 2.7 mm in the repair group with a mean difference between groups of 1.7 mm. This was statically significant; however, there were no clinical or statistical differences in complication rate or PRWE between the two groups. Conclusion: The PQ length was significantly shorter and the number of retractions significantly larger without repair of the PQ muscle; however, neither length nor retraction correlated significantly with complication rate or PRWE.
Analysis of the backward bending modes in damped rotating beams
Authors: Martínez-Casas Jose , Denia Francisco David , Fayos Sancho Juan , Nadal Soriano Enrique , Giner-Navarro Juan
Published: April 2019

This article presents a study of the backward bending mode of a simply supported rotating Rayleigh beam with internal damping. The study analyses the natural frequency behaviour of the backward mode according to the internal viscous damping ratio, the slenderness of the beam and its spin speed. To date, the behaviour of the natural frequency of the backward mode is known to be a monotonically decreasing function with spin speed due to gyroscopic effects. In this article, however, it is shown that this behaviour of the natural frequency may not hold for certain damping and slenderness conditions, and reaches a minimum value (concave function) from which it begins to increase. Accordingly, the analytical expression of the spin speed for which the natural frequency of the backward mode attains the minimum value has been obtained. In addition, the internal damping ratio and slenderness intervals associated with such behaviour have been also provided.
Study on aeolian vibration suppression schemes for large crossing span of ultra-high-voltage eight-bundle conductors
Authors: Qi Yi , Rui Xiaoming , Ji Kunpeng , Liu Chen , Zhou Chao
Published: April 2019

Ultra-high-voltage transmission line is prone to severely aeolian vibration, especially for the large crossing span. However, few studies were conducted previously, as a result of high nonlinearity and complexity of the bundled conductor aeolian vibration system. This article introduces the analytical models of conductor and damping devices first, to get the key factors for aeolian vibration and to direct the experimental study based on the energy balance principal. Second, the self-damping characteristics of single sub-conductor and energy dissipation power of vibration damper are tested in the laboratory. Third, two aeolian vibration schemes, the first one with vibration dampers only and the second one with both vibration dampers and damping wires, are proposed and evaluated experimentally on the single sub-conductor and then on the eight-bundle test spans. It is found that the concerned conductor has excellent damping effect at high-frequency range and that both of the two schemes show satisfactory aeolian vibration suppression result, but the second one is recommended for its good long-term service performance. This study provides useful reference for aeolian vibration suppression of ultra-high-voltage lines, to avoid fatigue failures of components induced by aeolian vibration and to improve the mechanical security of transmission lines.
Hypoxic Preconditioning Enhances Bone Marrow–Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Survival in a Low Oxygen and Nutrient-Limited 3D Microenvironment
Authors: Peck Sun H. , Bendigo Justin R. , Tobias John W. , Dodge George R. , Malhotra Neil R. , Mauck Robert L. , Smith Lachlan J.
Published: April 2019

Objective

Skeletal tissues such as intervertebral disc and articular cartilage possess limited innate potential to regenerate, in part due to their avascularity and low cell density. Despite recent advances in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)–based disc and cartilage regeneration, key challenges remain, including the sensitivity of these cells to in vivo microenvironmental stress such as low oxygen and limited nutrition. The objective of this study was to investigate whether preconditioning with hypoxia and/or transforming growth factor–β 3 (TGF-β3) can enhance MSC survival and extracellular matrix production in a low oxygen and nutrient-limited microenvironment.

Design

MSCs from multiple bovine donors were preconditioned in monolayer in normoxia or hypoxia, with or without TGF-β3, and the global effects on gene expression were examined using microarrays. Subsequently, the effects of preconditioning on MSC survival and extracellular matrix production were examined using low oxygen and nutrient-limited pellet culture experiments.

Results

Hypoxic preconditioning resulted in upregulation of genes associated with growth, cell-cell signaling, metabolism, and cell stress response pathways, and significantly enhanced MSC survival for all donors in low oxygen and nutrient-limited pellet culture. In contrast, TGF-β3 preconditioning diminished survival. The nature and magnitude of the effects of preconditioning with either hypoxia or TGF-β3 on glycosaminoglycan production were donor dependent.

Conclusions

These results strongly support the use of hypoxic preconditioning to improve postimplantation MSC survival in avascular tissues such as disc and cartilage.
Geographical variations in the prevalence of hypertension in France: Cross-sectional analysis of the CONSTANCES cohort
Authors: Neufcourt Lola , Deguen Séverine , Bayat Sahar , Paillard François , Zins Marie , Grimaud Olivier
Published: April 2019

Aims

While international variations in the prevalence of hypertension are well described, less is known about intra-national disparities and their determinants. We wanted to describe the variations in hypertension prevalence within France and to determine how much lifestyle and socioeconomic factors contributed to explain these regional variations.

Methods

Participants (62,247 French adults aged 18 to 69 years) were recruited in the 16 centres of the CONSTANCES study between 2012 and 2015. Hypertension was defined as blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg and/or taking antihypertensive medications. The contribution of lifestyle and socioeconomic factors to hypertension prevalence variations among centres was examined using sequential hierarchical logistic models.

Results

Hypertension prevalence was 37.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 36.6–38.0) in men and 23.2% (95% CI = 22.7–23.8) in women. Hypertension prevalence rates varied by almost two-fold among centres (1.9 in men, 1.6 in women) with the highest prevalence in the north and the east of France. Body mass index was strongly associated with hypertension in women (odds ratio (OR)1-unit increase = 1.11 (95% CI = 1.11–1.12)) and was the highest contributor to between-centre variations (27% in women), followed by socioeconomic characteristics (e.g. ORhigh versus low education = 0.85 (95% CI = 0.83–0.87), contributing to 14% of variations in women). Together, family history of hypertension, body mass index, education, occupation and residential area socioeconomic level explained about 30% and 40% of between-centre variations in men and women, respectively.

Conclusion

Hypertension prevalence greatly varies among French regions and this is partly explained by known lifestyle and socioeconomic factors. Nevertheless, these variations and all the hypertension determinants have not been fully deciphered yet.
‘It’s about willpower in the end. You’ve got to keep going’: a qualitative study exploring the experience of pain in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Sweeney Louise , Moss-Morris Rona , Czuber-Dochan Wladyslawa , Belotti Laure , Kabeli Zoe , Norton Christine
Published: April 2019

Background:

Pain is a widely experienced symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which has significant psychological and functional impacts on patients. Understanding the aetiology and management of chronic pain is a poorly understood area of IBD research. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with IBD and pain, the pain management strategies they use and any needs for future pain management interventions.

Methods:

In all, 14 individuals with IBD were purposively recruited and interviewed (face-to-face or telephone) using a topic guide. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results:

Themes identified were ‘vicious cycles’, ‘findings solutions’ and ‘attitudes’. The experience and impact of pain were rarely viewed in isolation, but rather within the context of a cycle of IBD symptoms. Other ‘vicious cycles’ identified included anxiety, avoidance and inactivity, and poor understanding and communication. Pain management included short- and long-term strategies. Searching for a solution for pain had an emotional impact on individuals. There were contrasting attitudes from participants, including defeat, tolerance and acceptance.

Conclusion:

This study provides an understanding of the experience of pain in IBD. The interaction of pain with accompanying IBD symptoms has an emotional and physical impact on individuals, and creates a barrier to adequate assessment, understanding and treatment of pain. Patients rely on their own experiences, and a trial and error approach to apply helpful strategies. Adjuvant behavioural therapies may be beneficial for patients experiencing pain and psychological distress, and to facilitate self-management.
Report of a rare case of severe allergic reaction due to nasal myiasis and a brief review of the literature in Turkey
Authors: Erenler Ali Kemal , Turan Ahu Pınar , Ay Özlem Oymak , Taylan Özkan Ayşegül
Published: April 2019

Myiasis is defined as infestation of a mammal by fly larvae. It may occur on either living tissues (primary myiasis) or dead tissues (secondary myiasis). In this report, we present a patient with myiasis with an extremely rare clinical manifestation and severe allergic reaction, and we review the literature in order to reveal the current status. A 20-year-old female patient was admitted to our emergency department due to rush on face, cough and shortness of breath. The maggot came out of her nose was identified as Oestrus ovis. With a diagnosis of severe allergic reaction due to myiasis, she was treated diphenhidramine, prednisone and inhale albuterol in the emergency department. After treatment and further investigation, she was discharged with full recovery. Myiasis is a rare cause for severe allergic reaction in patients with definite diagnosis. Immediate diagnosis and treatment are milestones in preventing bad outcomes.