bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gate Capacitance in Quantum Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor Devices of Technologically Important Materials
Authors: Debbarma M. , Das S. , Pal J. , Debbarma S. , Paul R. , Das P. K. , Dutta T. , Ghatak K. P.
Published: November 2019

The Heisenberg's scientific theory of quantum science since its beginning has been proved to be instrumental in unlocking varied vital quantum phenomena. In what follows the Heisenberg's scientific theory has been used to derive the expressions for the gate capacitance in Quantum MOSFET
Devices manufactured from completely different technologically vital nonstandard materials by formulating the 2D electron statistics under very low temperature so that the Fermi function tends to unity. For numerical computations we take Cd3As2, the best quality very
high mobility semiconductor and non-linear optical (e.g., CdGeAs2) compounds from which quantum MOSFET devices are made of by using all types of anisotropies of band structures in addition to splitting of bands due to large fields of the crystals inside the frame work of Kane's
matrix methodology that successively generates new two dimensional electron energy versus wave vector relation for both low and very large externally applied electric field of force respectively. Under many special conditions, the corresponding statistics and therefore the gate capacitance
for the quantum MOSFETs, whose e–ks equation (e is carrier energy and ks is the 2D wave vector) are defined by various models of III–V semiconducting samples originally derived by Kane create special cases of our extended formalism. It's
been found taking quantum MOSFETs of CdGeAs2, InAs, InSb, Hg1–xCdxTe and In1–xGaxAs yP1–y lattice matched to InP that the gate capacitance at the electrical
quantum limit will exhibit monotonic increasing function with changing field at the surface, the applied voltage at the gate for each of the compounds and therefore the actual results have one to one correspondence with the energy band constants showing an inclination of asymptotic results
at comparatively large values of the independent variables for all the cases. The gradient rates for all curves change from one material to a different material. With decreasing alloy composition, the gate capacitance will increase for each of quantum confined MOSFETs made of various alloy
compounds. For the aim of coherent presentation we've got conjointly planned the periodical Fermi energy at high field of force limits and gate voltage for few quantum confined MOSFETs.
Definition of the Moist-Air Exergy Norm: A Comparison with Existing “Moist Energy Norms”
Authors: Marquet Pascal , Mahfouf Jean-François , Holdaway Daniel
Published: November 2019

This study presents a new formulation for the norms and scalar products used in tangent linear or adjoint models to determine forecast errors and sensitivity to observations and to calculate singular vectors. The new norm is derived from the concept of moist-air available enthalpy, which is one of the availability functions referred to as exergy in general thermodynamics. It is shown that the sum of the kinetic energy and the moist-air available enthalpy can be used to define a new moist-air squared norm that is quadratic in 1) wind components, 2) temperature, 3) surface pressure, and 4) water vapor content. Preliminary numerical applications are performed to show that the new weighting factors for temperature and water vapor are significantly different from those used in observation impact studies, and are in better agreement with observed analysis increments. These numerical applications confirm that the weighting factors for water vapor and temperature exhibit a large increase with height (by several orders of magnitude) and a minimum in the midtroposphere, respectively.
An Experimental Vignette Study on the Attractiveness of Ownership-Based Carsharing Communities: A Social Capital Theory Perspective
Authors: Crucke Saskia , Slabbinck Hendrik
Published: November 2019

Although the sharing economy is rapidly growing, it is still in its infancy. One of the key challenges is successfully expanding the number of users joining the sharing economy. Our research empirically assesses which organizational form is most successful in attracting new consumers to the sharing organizations that are co-owned by their users. The structure and scope of these sharing communities may differ substantially: while closed sharing communities are neighborhood based, open sharing communities establish broad communities without geographical boundaries. Building on social capital theory, we find that open sharing communities are more attractive than closed sharing communities because they foster trust and alleviate perceived scarcity risk. Yet, important boundary conditions exist. While a social and environmental orientation increases the likelihood to join open sharing communities, this is not the case for closed sharing organizations. These results highlight the value of examining distinct organizational forms of sharing organizations.
Addressing the Problem of Political Vigilantism in Ghana through the Conceptual Lens of Wicked Problems
Authors: Asamoah Kwame
Published: November 2019

Ghana entered into the Fourth Republic in 1993 after experiencing political instability over two decades. A defining feature that has characterized the Fourth Republic of Ghana and marred Ghana’s democratic credentials is the emergence of political vigilantism. Political vigilantism has basically been perpetuated by the two leading political parties in Ghana: the New Patriotic Party and National Democratic Congress. The major political actors in the political system of Ghana continue to express the debilitating effects of political vigilantism on Ghana’s democratic advancement, nevertheless, it continues to persist in monumental proportion in our political dispensation. Using a qualitative research approach, the paper examines the factors responsible for the pervasiveness of political vigilantism under the Fourth Republic of Ghana and proffer some plausible solutions to address this political canker.
Social policies, financial markets and the multi-scalar governance of affordable housing in Toronto
Authors: Zhang Beibei
Published: November 2019

While housing has been a central object of financialisation, questions regarding how multi-scalar states shape the financialisation of housing remain under-researched. I address this knowledge gap through a case study of the financialisation of affordable housing in Toronto. By analysing pertinent policy documents, I examine the roles and relationship of the federal, provincial and local states in the financialisation of affordable housing. Two findings are highlighted. (1) Although policies from all levels of government show traits of financialisation – in terms of both the connection between social policy and financial markets, and financialised ideologies prevailing in policy discourses, the extent and pattern of the manifestation of financialisation are distinct. This research thus calls for a nuanced understanding of the state’s role in the financialisation of housing from a multi-scalar perspective. (2) Affordable housing policies usually do not give an explicit definition of ‘affordable’. By scrutinising the policy specifications, I found that the target group is mainly moderate-income, rather than low-income, households. It will be increasingly difficult for low-income households to meet their housing needs.
Depositional environment and pore structure of mixed lithofacies shale of the Longmaxi Formation in the DM Block, the Southern Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Tian Jijun , Xu Chuanzheng , Li Xin , Wang Wenfeng , Lin Wen
Published: November 2019

Distinguishing the differences of pore characters between different mixed lithofacies shales is helpful for improving shale gas development efficiencies. In this study, the targeted Longmaxi shale ( L1) of the Southern Sichuan Basin was selected as the research object. Two kinds of mixed lithofacies shale were identified by analyzing total organic carbon and X-ray diffraction results. The forming depositional environment of mixed lithofacies shale was researched by elements analyses. Pores in different mixed lithofacies shale were observed using field emission scanning electronic microscope. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption were conducted to analyze pore characters of different mixed lithofacies shale. The results showed that L1 were mainly composed of organic rich clay–siliceous mixed shales (OR-M-1) and organic extreme rich calcareous–siliceous mixed shales (OER-M-3). OR-M-1 and OER-M-3 were formed in high paleo-producing dysoxic–oxic seawater and anoxic waterbody, respectively. Micro-pore and meso-pore volumes of OER-M-3 were greater than those of OR-M-1 while macro-pore volume of OER-M-3 was lower than that of OR-M-1. Meso-pore surficial and structural complexities of OER-M-3 were greater than those of OR-M-1. OER-M-3 were greater in oil-wetting micro-pore structural complexities while lower in water-wetting micro-pore structural complexities, compared with OR-M-1. The inherent relationships between lithofacies type and sedimentary environment, total organic carbon, as well as pore characters, respectively, were quite close.
Cognitive rehabilitation for attention and memory in people with multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled trial (CRAMMS)
Authors: Lincoln Nadina B , Bradshaw Lucy E , Constantinescu Cris S , Day Florence , Drummond Avril ER , Fitzsimmons Deborah , Harris Shaun , Montgomery Alan A , das Nair Roshan , Morgan Miriam , Scott Julia , Evans Susan , McKeown Shirlee , Bharadia Trishna , Moore Perry , Young Carolyn , Sharrack Basil , Isaac Claire , Griffths David , Fixter Vera , Hanley Laura , Evans Stephen , Palmer Lena , Tyrell Tracy , Gaughan Shannon , Elliot Gemma , Keogh Sophie , Oldknow Helen , Edwards Catherine , Schofield Nigel , Clarke Sara , Crossley Kara , Griffiths Holly , Knight Cara , Martin Kristy , Cunliffe Alexandra , Pollard Catherine , Wilson John , Trigg Emma , Vanzan Serena , Dalton Joanna , Pegnall Stephanie , Carpenter Hannah , Cogger Heather , Harnell Rachel , Klein Olga , Mhizha-Murira Jacqueline , Powers Katie , Squires Luke , Sprange Kirsty , Evans Amy , Hobbs Jo , Wakefield Natalie , Barnes Brian , Crone Monica , Foster Matthew , Rumsey Chris , Erven Alexandra , Moss-Morris Rona , Bowen Audrey , O’Connor Rory , Freeman Jenny , Taylor Rod , Rose Anita
Published: November 2019

Objective:

To assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation for attention and memory problems in people with multiple sclerosis.

Design:

Multicentre, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Community

Participants:

People with multiple sclerosis aged 18–69 years, who reported cognitive problems in daily life and had cognitive problems on standardized assessment.

Interventions:

A group cognitive rehabilitation programme delivered in 10 weekly sessions in comparison with usual care.

Main measures:

The primary outcome was the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale Psychological subscale at 12 months after randomization. Secondary outcomes included measures of everyday memory problems, mood, fatigue, cognitive abilities and employment at 6 and 12 months after randomization.

Results:

In all, 245 participants were allocated to cognitive rehabilitation and 204 to usual care. Mean Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale Psychological at 12 months was 22.2 (SD = 6.1) for cognitive rehabilitation and 23.4 (SD = 6.0) for usual care group; adjusted difference −0.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −1.5 to 0.3, P = 0.20. No differences were observed in cognitive abilities, fatigue or employment. There were small differences in favour of cognitive rehabilitation for the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale Psychological at 6 months and everyday memory and mood at 6 and 12 months. There was no evidence of an effect on costs (−£808; 95% CI = −£2248 to £632) or on quality-adjusted life year gain (0.00; 95% CI = −0.01 to 0.02).

Conclusion:

This rehabilitation programme had no long-term benefits on the impact of multiple sclerosis on quality of life, but there was some evidence of an effect on everyday memory problems and mood.
The environmentalization of urban entrepreneurialism: From technopolis to start-up city
Authors: Levenda Anthony M , Tretter Eliot
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates two trends in contemporary forms of urban entrepreneurialism: (a) an increasing focus on cultivating entrepreneurship, and (b) the promotion of entrepreneurial ecosystems that leverage culture and sustainability to attract and support entrepreneurs. We argue that these trends signify a shift from the entrepreneurial city to new strategies that shape cities for entrepreneurs. Underpinning this development is a broad normalization and valorization of entrepreneurship as the dominant pathway for urban economic growth. Additionally, we show how sustainability and greening are enrolled in these economic development strategies, promising to bolster the environmental image of the city. We highlight these two changes by focusing on the intellectual foundations of the technopolis concept in Austin, Texas, and the development of a cleantech entrepreneurial ecosystem that has increasingly been leveraged in Austin’s entrepreneurial growth efforts. We offer insights into how the growing trend of “making cities for entrepreneurs” is reshaping urban entrepreneurial governance, potentially exacerbating inequalities in urban development.
Disparities in Donor Human Milk Supplementation Among Well Newborns
Authors: Kair Laura R. , Nidey Nichole L. , Marks Jessie E. , Hanrahan Kirsten , Femino Lorraine , Fernandez y Garcia Erik , Ryckman Kelli , Wood Kelly E.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Donor human milk supplementation for healthy newborns has increased. Racial-ethnic disparities in supplementation have been described in the neonatal intensive care unit but not in the well newborn setting.

Research aim:

The aim of this study was to identify maternal characteristics associated with donor human milk versus formula supplementation in the well newborn unit.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study includes dyads of well newborns and their mothers ( N = 678) who breastfed and supplemented with formula ( n = 372) or donor human milk ( n = 306) during the birth hospitalization at a single hospital in the midwestern United States. Maternal characteristics and infant feeding type were extracted from medical records. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to examine associations between maternal characteristics and feeding type.

Results:

Nonwhite women were less likely to use donor human milk. Compared to non-Hispanic white women, the largest disparity was with Hispanic (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.28, 95% CI [0.12, 0.65]), then non-Hispanic black (adjusted OR = 0.32, 95% CI [0.13, 0.76]) and Asian women (adjusted OR = 0.34, 95% CI [0.16, 0.74]). Lower donor human milk use was associated with primary language other than English and public versus private insurance.

Conclusion:

The goal of improving public health through breastfeeding promotion may be inhibited without targeting donor human milk programs to these groups. Identifying the drivers of these disparities is necessary to inform person-centered interventions that address the needs of women with diverse backgrounds.
‘There’s a Price to Pay in Order Not to Have a Price’: Whistleblowing and the Employment Relationship
Authors: Carollo Luca , Guerci Marco , Parisi Nicoletta
Published: November 2019

Whistleblowing is a typical and widespread phenomenon in contemporary societies, and it has the potential to illuminate many of the issues that affect the workplace today. By recounting the story of an Italian whistleblower who suffered harsh professional retaliation and severe personal consequences because of his disclosure of accounting malpractices in his employing organization, this article aims to furnish a series of insights and stimulate avenues for future research. In particular, the account yields rich insights into current pervasive forms of managerial control of the workforce, the role of traditional and new actors in influencing the power dynamics of the employment relationship, and the interplay between the organizational and institutional levels in the regulation of labour relations.
Temporal digital control: Theorizing the use of digital technologies to provide a temporal autonomous space
Authors: Johnson Nicola F
Published: November 2019

Screen time once referred to television. Nowadays, it includes various screen sizes that are internet-enabled devices, and the pervasive smartphone. Regardless of what kind of screen is used, screen time comprises much of life itself. Being online and offline is now fairly blurred because of the ubiquitousness of technologies, Wi-Fi and screens. This paper puts forth the notion of ‘temporal digital control’ to explain the choice of when and why smartphones and other portable digital devices are used in today’s cultural milieu, and it theorizes the ‘why’ of contemporary smartphone use is so prominent suggesting it enables temporal digital control in an autonomous space. Coupled with the engrossment of such use, the article elaborates how gazing at a digital device comprises a temporal connection, alongside a disconnection from real life, and a possible inauthenticity that could affect well-being. Recently published literature on ‘waiting’ is included to help theorize why actors choose to use digital technologies while waiting. Being preoccupied, or busy, or doing something with one’s smartphone while waiting creates a sense of alleged status, importance or connection in the form of digital temporal control. An array of vignettes is provided to demonstrate agentic disengagement with the present in a preference for moving into a temporal autonomous space of ‘perceived’ digital control. When gazing at and using a digital device, users are arguably disengaging with the temporal present, disconnecting with others who may be beside them, in preference to the creation of temporal (and digital) autonomous spaces. Regardless of what the user is doing on their smartphone or device, the use of technologies can provide a temporal autonomous space of digital control.
The Banishment of the Poor From Public Space: Promoting and Contesting Neo-Liberalisation at the Municipal Level
Authors: Brown Kevin J
Published: November 2019

With growing levels of homelessness, many municipalities in western jurisdictions are increasing social control of public displays of poverty through criminalisation, marginalisation and banishment. This has recently been apparent in England with the introduction of public spaces protection orders. Based on notions of localism, these grant local government significantly enhanced powers to regulate public space. This article uses the English example to provide a critical, empirically informed, exploration of how populist neo-liberal rationalisations about the street poor are finding increasing favour among local authorities. It charts how in a period of austerity, with municipalities struggling to fulfil welfare obligations to the homeless and other poor, banishment provides a cheaper solution to citizens’ concerns about visible displays of poverty in public space. The article investigates the troubling ways in which municipalities endorse a neo-liberal authoritarian approach to public consultations to claim legitimacy for introducing measures that target vulnerable minorities. It also examines how opponents, with limited success, have challenged such measures and the predominant neo-liberal–populist narrative associated with them.
How Does Creative Arts Therapy Reduce Distress for Children With Cancer? A Metasynthesis of Extant Qualitative Literature
Authors: Raybin Jennifer L. , Barr Emily , Krajicek Marilyn , Jones Jacqueline
Published: November 2019

Introduction: As more children survive cancer, attention must be paid to their quality of life (QOL). Integrative therapies are an ideal modality for nurses to advocate for reducing distress and improving QOL for children with cancer. Creative arts therapy is a type of integrative health that may improve QOL in this population. Therefore, the research question was asked, “For children with cancer, what opportunities exist for creative arts therapy to reduce distress?” Method: A metasynthesis of the extant qualitative research was conducted to answer the research question. Seven qualitative studies were identified, which included 162 participants. New themes were identified through rigorous analyzation by the study team of each study as individual data. Results: Four derived analytic themes emerged through the analysis: (a) connection is established through creative expression, (b) coping is facilitated by creative arts, (c) communication is enabled by creative arts interventions, and (d) continuance (the concept of time) is experienced through creative arts. Examples of each theme with subthemes are delineated, including expressive quotes. Summary: Through this qualitative synthesis of studies with creative arts therapy, evocative opportunities to reduce the distress associated with the disease experience are revealed. Nurses are called now to promote creative arts therapy to improve the symptoms in children with cancer.
LncRNA BANCR Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Tumorigenesis via Modulating MiR-195-5p/Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wu Xinquan , Xia Tianfang , Cao Meng , Zhang Pengbo , Shi Guodong , Chen Lei , Zhang Jingjing , Yin Jie , Wu Pengfei , Cai Baobao , Lu Zipeng , Miao Yi , Jiang Kuirong
Published: November 2019

Long noncoding BRAF-activated noncoding RNA has been reported to be tightly associated with tumorigenesis and development in various types of cancers. However, the expression, biological function, and modulatory mechanism of BRAF-activated noncoding RNA in pancreatic cancer remained unclear. In the present work, we explored the carcinogenic activity and underlying mechanism of BRAF-activated noncoding RNA on pancreatic cancer in vitro. We identified that BRAF-activated noncoding RNA was upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines, and BRAF-activated noncoding RNA was related to tumor metastasis and stage. BRAF-activated noncoding RNA reinforces proliferation, invasion, and migration in PANC-1 and SW1990 cells. Moreover, miR-195-5p was downregulated in both PC tissues and cell lines. Our results based on luciferase reporter, RIP-Ago2 and qRT-PCR assays, showed that miR-195-5p was a direct target of BRAF-activated noncoding RNA. Furthermore, miR-195-5p inhibitor abrogated the effects of short-interfering BRAF-activated noncoding RNA on PANC-1 and SW1990 cell growth and invasion in vitro. We further identified that BRAF-activated noncoding RNA played a vital role in activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by sponging miR-195-5p. Collectively, our study showed that BRAF-activated noncoding RNA promotes pancreatic cancer tumorigenesis through miR-195-5p/Wnt/β-catenin axis may serve as a potential target for diagnostics and therapeutics in pancreatic cancer.
Investigation of the classification and properties of three-dimensional textile fabrics
Authors: Ma Zhenyu , Zhang Pingze , Zhu Jianxun
Published: November 2019

Three-dimensional textile fabrics are used as the reinforcing phase of the textile structural composites, and their geometry affect the physical and mechanical properties of composites. Based on the curvature and directions of the fiber tows in three-dimensional textile fabrics, four representative geometric units are proposed, namely, the orthogonal geometric unit, the curved geometric unit, the skew geometric unit, and the uniform distribution unit, respectively. Other units are the combinations or derivations of these representative geometric units. The relationship and performance characteristics of these representative geometric units are discussed in section “The relationship of RGUs.” The structural features of three-dimensional textile fabrics are illustrated on the mesoscopic scale, and the models are established to predict the geometric properties. The concepts of fabrics with stable structure, flexible structure, elastoplastic structure, and uniform structure are proposed. The fiber volume fractions and elastic characteristics of different structural fabrics are discussed. The classification of three-dimensional textile fabrics is conducive to investigate the relationship between geometry and property, forming a technical system and providing a theoretical basis for the selection of three-dimensional structural textile composites with different performance.
One and done? The effect of number of Pipeline embolization devices on aneurysm treatment outcomes
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Vakharia Kunal , Gong Andrew D , Rai Hamid H , Wack Audrey , Fayyaz Najya , Snyder Kenneth V , Davies Jason M , Siddiqui Adnan H , Levy Elad I
Published: November 2019

Background

Controversy exists regarding the optimum number of flow diverters for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. We explored the effect of the number of Pipeline embolization devices (PEDs; Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) deployed on rates of aneurysm occlusion and complications.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent saccular intracranial aneurysm treatment solely with the PED were included in this retrospective study. Computed tomographic, magnetic resonance, or digital subtraction angiographic images at 6 and 12 months and last follow-up (>12 months) were reviewed for aneurysm occlusion. Complication and retreatment rates were recorded and analyzed statistically.

Results

The study included 141 aneurysm treatments in 119 patients. A single PED was deployed in 105 cases, two PEDs in 31 cases, and three PEDs in 5 cases (total = 182 devices). Six-month angiographic data were available for 103 patients. Occlusion rates were 67.1% for single-PED cases and 90.0% for cases with > 1 PED (p = 0.028). The 12-month occlusion rate (follow-up available for 132) for single-PED cases was 74.7% compared to 91.7% for multiple-PED cases (p = 0.04). On multivariate analysis, number of PEDs was an independent predictor of aneurysm occlusion at 12 months (odds ratio 6.3, 95% confidence interval 1.8–22.8, p = 0.005). Thromboembolic complication rates were the same in the single- and multiple-PED treatment groups (2.8%). The retreatment rate was higher in patients treated with a single PED (16.2% vs. 0%, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Deployment of > 1 Pipeline embolization device was associated with higher intracranial aneurysm occlusion and lower retreatment rates. No significant difference was found in complication rates.
Cervical internal carotid artery tortuosity: A morphologic analysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Benson John C , Brinjikji Waleed , Messina Steven A , Lanzino Giuseppe , Kallmes David F
Published: November 2019

Background and purpose

Cervical internal carotid artery (ICA) tortuosity is thought to impede distal catheterization during attempted mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. This study sought to assess the morphologic characteristics of ICAs and the effects of tortuosity on thrombectomy attempts.

Methods

A retrospective review was completed of neck CTAs of patients with acute ischemic stroke due to a large vessel occlusion that underwent attempted endovascular recanalization. Significant tortuosity of ICAs was defined as the presence of kink(s) (acute (<90°) angulation), loop(s) (C- or S-shaped curvature with 2+ areas of acute (<90°) angulation), or coil(s) (full 360° turn arterial bend). Findings were statistically compared to procedure time, successful recanalization rate, patient demographics, and co-morbidities.

Results

Of 120 included patients, 47 (39.2%) had some form of tortuosity of one or both ICAs. Twenty-eight patients (23.3%) had a kink of one or both ICAs; this was followed in frequency by loops (n = 20; 16.7%) and coils (n = 8; 6.7%). Kinks were associated with lower rates of successful recanalization (p = 0.02). The presence of any tortuosity (kinks, loops, or coils) was not associated with number of passes during thrombectomy (p = 0.88), successful recanalization (p = 0.11), or total procedure time (p = 0.22). No association was noted between the presence of tortuosity and age (p = 0.96) or prior or current tobacco use (p = 0.75 and p = 0.69, respectively).

Conclusion

Among patients referred for urgent revascularization for large vessel occlusion, approximately 40% exhibit some tortuosity. Kinks may portend lower likelihood of recanalization success, although tortuosity as a whole seems to have little effect on endovascular thrombectomy.
Seizure control in a neural mass model by an active disturbance rejection approach
Authors: Wei Wei , Wei Xiaofang , Zuo Min , Yu Tao , Li Yan
Published: November 2019

A closed-loop neuromodulation automatically adjusts stimuli according to brain response in real time. It is viewed as a promising way to control medically intractable epilepsy. A suitable closed-loop modulation strategy, which is robust enough to unknown nonlinearities, dynamics, and disturbances, is in great need in the clinic. For the specialization of epilepsy, the Jansen’s neural mass model is utilized to simulate the undesired high amplitudes epileptic activities, and active disturbance rejection control is designed to suppress the high amplitudes of epileptiform discharges. With the help of active disturbance rejection control, closed-loop roots of the system are far from the imaginary axis. Time domain response shows that active disturbance rejection control is able to control seizure no matter whether disturbances exist or not. At the same time, frequency domain response presents that enough stability margins and a broader range of tunable controller parameters can be obtained. Stable regions have also been presented to provide guidance to choose the parameters of active disturbance rejection control. Numerical results show that, compared with proportional-integral control, more accurate modulation with less energy can be achieved by active disturbance rejection control. It confirms that the active disturbance rejection control-based neuromodulation solution is able to achieve a desired performance. It is a promising closed-loop neuromodulation strategy in seizure control.
Impact of High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C for Treatment of Sepsis on Point-of-Care Blood Glucose Readings
Authors: Howell Anna Peyton , Parrett Jenna L. , Malcom Daniel R.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Intravenous vitamin C therapy has been associated with reduced mortality in patients with sepsis. Of potential concern with this therapy are falsely elevated point-of-care (POC) blood glucose values vs laboratory analyzed (LA) readings. The purpose of this study was to compare POC and LA blood glucose measurements in patients receiving intravenous vitamin C therapy.

Methods:

All adults (≥18 years old) admitted from January 2017 to December 2018 who received at least two doses of intravenous vitamin C and had at least one paired blood glucose collection were eligible for inclusion. The primary endpoint was the accuracy in paired blood glucose values determined using the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15197:2013 criteria. Paired values were assessed for clinical impact using the Parkes consensus error grid analysis. A subgroup analysis was conducted to determine the impact of impaired renal function on outcomes.

Results:

Fourteen patients were included for analysis with 46 paired blood glucose levels. Compliance with ISO15197:2013 criteria was met in 34 (73.9%) paired values, which did not meet the minimum criteria for accuracy. Subgroup analysis showed that the paired values from patients with impaired renal function did not meet the minimum requirements for compliance, while those from patients without impaired renal function did. The Parkes error grid showed that the variation in POC measurements likely had minimal clinical impact.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests that most patients receiving vitamin C for sepsis may still be monitored at POC with the glucose meter used in our study with minimal clinical impact.
Phyllodes tumor with metastases to the skull managed with local excision: A case report
Authors: Patel Ronak , Mehta Arjun , Suri Kabir , Bocian Hillel , Hu James
Published: November 2019

The behavior of phyllodes tumors is unpredictable and can behave as benign fibroadenomas or malignant neoplasms mimicking the course of aggressive sarcomas, characterized by distant metastases and a high short-term mortality. The malignant forms are treated with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy, but often with poor outcomes. We examine the first reported case of an aggressive osteosarcoma subtype of phyllodes tumor that recurred in the skull after total mastectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy. The skull lesion was treated with excision, and the patient currently remains disease-free.
Innovations in personalised diabetes care and risk management
Authors: Nijpels Giel , Beulens Joline WJ , van der Heijden Amber AWA , Elders Petra J
Published: November 2019

Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing macro and microvascular complications. Nevertheless, there is substantial heterogeneity between people with type 2 diabetes in their risk of developing such complications. Personalised medicine for people with type 2 diabetes may aid in efficient and tailored diabetes care for those at increased risk of developing such complications. Recently, progress has been made in the development of personalised diabetes care in several areas. Particularly for the risk prediction of cardiovascular disease, retinopathy and nephropathy, innovative methods have been developed for prediction and tailored monitoring or treatment to prevent such complications. For other complications or subpopulations of people with type 2 diabetes, such as the frail elderly, efforts are currently ongoing to develop such methods. In this review, we discuss the recent developments in innovations of personalised diabetes care for different complications and subpopulations of people with type 2 diabetes, their performance and modes of application in clinical practice.
Morbid curiosity? Discussion of the disposal of amputated limbs on online question and answer sites
Authors: Hanna Esmée
Published: November 2019

Amputation is a growing health issue with implications for the corporeal form and sense of bodily identity. Disposal of the removed limb (the amputate) has historically been suggested to impact on patient adaptation to amputation, although understandings of limb disposal are scarce within existing research. The growth of online question and answer sites has created opportunities for social actors to post and respond to a vast array of topic areas, including those that are seen as morbid or taboo. This paper then explores the discussion of amputate disposal within threads from two popular question and answer sites. Using thematic analysis, the paper examines how perceived ownership of limbs, understanding of the amputate as ‘waste’ and recourse to grotesque humour are key means by which limb disposal is discussed within these sites. Posters then create a new knowledge around the disposal of limbs, albeit one framed by uncertainty.
Legal Impact of Female Genital Mutilation: Special Reference to Penal Laws and Human Rights Perspective in the Criminal Justice System of Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijayath Aruni
Published: November 2019

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a ritual and religious and cultural practice among the Moor, Malay and Dawoodi Bohra ethnic communities in Sri Lanka. The process of FGM is ensconced from the general public in Sri Lanka; therefore, few pieces of research pertaining to the practice of FGM are available. A considerable number of international organizations profess that the percentage of FGM/cutting is zero in Sri Lanka through their reports, although newspaper articles and country reports disclose that FGM actually exists among the Muslim community in Sri Lanka. The knowledge regarding the process of FGM is in the backwater in Sri Lanka, even though a considerable number of feminism activists have created a platform to discuss the bad consequences emerging from this harmful practice. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 30 countries of African Region, selected countries in the Middle East, and countries of Asian Region practice this custom among the female community in some ethnic and religious groups. Through this practice, the female community has not gained any advantage or benefit. The purpose of this research is to explore the municipal laws and human rights regarding FGM in the Sri Lankan context. Furthermore, international conventions which are ratified by Sri Lanka will be analysed in this manner. This research is mainly based on the normative method and retrieved Internet documentary analysis in a qualitative manner.
In Vitro Antioxidant Properties of Dichloromethanolic Leaf Extract of Gnidia glauca (Fresen) as a Promising Antiobesity Drug
Authors: Arika Wycliffe , Kibiti Cromwell Mwiti , Njagi Joan Murugi , Ngugi Mathew Piero
Published: November 2019

The acquisition of ethnobotanical information from traditional practitioners remains an empirical aspect of understanding the ethnopharmacology research. However, integration of information on chemical composition of plant extracts and their pharmacological activities forms a key resource for synthesis of new and effective therapeutics. In traditional African medicine, Gnidia glauca has folkloric remedies against obesity and its associated oxidative stress-mediated complications. However, the upsurge in its use has not been accompanied with scientific validations to support these claims. The present study aimed to determine the antioxidant potential of G glauca as a promising antiobesity agent. The antioxidant effects of the extract were assessed against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, and superoxide radicals as well as lipid peroxidation, iron-chelating effect, and ferric-reducing power. Phytochemical analysis was conducted using gas chromatography linked to mass spectrophotometry. The results revealed that G glauca exhibited scavenging activities against all radicals formed. Besides, the extract showed iron chelation and ferric reducing abilities. The extract indicated a lower half maximal inhibitory concentration value than the standards used. For instance, the extract inhibited 50% of the formation of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine at the concentration of 1.33 ± 0.03 mg/mL relative to 1.39 ± 0.06 mg/mL of the standard, vitamin C at 1% confidence limit. Similarly, the extract scavenged 50% of hydroxyl radical at 204.34 ± 10.64 μg/mL relative to 210.05 ± 8.80 μg/mL of gallic acid. The extract also contained various phytochemicals that have been associated with antiobesity effects. The synergistic effects of these phytocompounds increase their bioavailability and action on multiple molecular targets thereby correcting obesity-induced oxidative stress.
Correction to: Interaction of the heterotrimeric G protein alpha subunit SSG-1 of Sporothrix schenckii with proteins related to stress response and fungal pathogenicity using a yeast two-hybrid assay
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez Lizaida , González Elizabeth , Colón-Lorenzo Emilee E. , González-Velázquez Waleska , González-Méndez Ricardo , Valle Nuri Rodríguez-del
Published: November 2019

Following the publication of this article [1], it was brought to our attention that Fig. 7A lane 2 is identical to Fig. 7B lane 2 and Fig. 7B lane 4 is identical to Fig. 7C lane 4.
Determinants of effective organisational capacity training: lessons from a training programme on health workforce development with participants from three African countries
Authors: Amde Woldekidan Kifle , Marchal Bruno , Sanders David , Lehmann Uta
Published: November 2019

Background

Health systems in sub-Saharan Africa face multifaceted capacity challenges to fulfil their mandates of service provision and governance of their resources. Four academic institutions in Africa implemented a World Health Organisation-funded collaborative project encompassing training, curriculum development, and partnership to strengthen national leadership and training capacity for health workforce development. This paper looks into the training component of the project, a blended Masters programme in public health that sought to improve the capacity of personnel involved in teaching or management/development of human resources for health. The paper aims to explore factors influencing contribution of training to organisational capacity development.

Methods

We chose a case study design. Semi-structured interviews were held with 18 trainees that were enrolled in the training programme, and who were affiliated to health ministries or public health training institutions. We gathered additional data through document reviews, observation, and interviews with 14 key informants associated with the programme and/or working in the collaborating institutions. The evidence gathered were analysed thematically.

Results

Thirteen of the 18 training participants stayed in the target institutions and contributed to improved capacity of their institutions in the fields of management, policy, planning, research, training, or curriculum development. Five left for private and international agencies due to dissatisfaction with payment, work conditions, or career prospect.

Factors that were associated with the training, trainees, and the institutional and broader context, determine contribution of training to organisational capacity development. These include relevance of newly acquired knowledge and skills set of trainees to the role/position they assume in the organisation; recognition of trainees by employing organisations in terms of promotion or assignment of challenging tasks; and motivation and retention of trained staff.

Conclusion

Training, even if relevant and applicable, makes no more than a ‘latent’ contribution, one which is activated and realised through alignment of clusters of interacting contextual and relational factors related to the target institutions and trained personnel. While not predictable, implementers need to focus more deliberately on the likely interaction and best possible alignments between training relevance, student selection for potential to contribute, recognition and career advancement potential.
Thymoquinone-loaded lipid vesicles: a promising nanomedicine for psoriasis
Authors: Negi Poonam , Sharma Ishita , Hemrajani Chetna , Rathore Charul , Bisht Alpna , Raza Kaisar , Katare O. P.
Published: November 2019

Background

Psoriasis, a recurrent, chronic inflammatory disorder of skin, is a common problem in middle age and elderly people. Thymoquinone (TQ), a lipid soluble benzoquinone is the major active ingredient of volatile oil of Nigella sativa (NS), possesses good anti-psoriatic activity. However, its hydrophobicity, poor aqueous solubility, and photosensitive nature obstructs its development. Therefore, in the present research work, ethosomal vesicles (EVs) loaded with TQ were assessed for its anti-psoriatic potential employing mouse-tail model.

Methods

TQ-loaded EVs were prepared by cold method, and characterized for various essential attributes, viz. particle size, morphology, percent drug entrapment, flexibility, rheological and textural analysis, and skin absorption. The optimized formulation was finally evaluated for anti-psoriatic activity on Swiss albino mice employing mouse-tail model for psoriasis.

Results

The spherical shaped vesicles were in the nanosize range, and had high flexibility. The EVs incorporated hydrogel was rheologically acceptable and resulted in substantial TQ retention in the skin layers. The % anti-psoriatic drug activity was observed to be substantially better in the case of TQ-loaded ethosomal gel vis-à-vis plain TQ, NS extract, and marketed formulation.

Conclusions

The promising outcomes of the current studies ratify the superiority of TQ-loaded phospholipid-based vesicular systems for the management of psoriasis over other studied test formulations. This study, thus open promising avenues for topical application of TQ in the form of EV hydrogel.
Antimicrobial resistance patterns and biofilm formation of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species isolated from subclinical mastitis cow milk samples submitted to the Onderstepoort Milk Laboratory
Authors: Phophi Lufuno , Petzer Inge-Marie , Qekwana Daniel Nenene
Published: November 2019

Background

Increased prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, treatment failure, and financial losses have been reported in dairy cows with coagulase-negativeStaphylococcus(CoNS) clinical mastitis, however, studies on CoNS infections are limited in South Africa. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to investigate the antimicrobial resistance patterns and biofilm formation in CoNS isolated from cow milk samples submitted to the Onderstepoort Milk Laboratory.

Results

A total of 142 confirmed CoNS isolates were used for this study. Biofilm formation was identified in 18% of CoNS tested.Staphylococcus chromogenes(11%) had the highest proportion of biofilm formation followed byS. haemolyticus(4.0%),S. epidermidis,S. hominis, S. xylosus, and S. simulanswith 1% respectively. Ninety percent (90%) of CoNS were resistant to at least one antimicrobial (AMR) and 51% were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Resistance among CoNS was the highest to ampicillin (90%) and penicillin (89%), few isolates resistant to cefoxitin and vancomycin, 9% respectively. Similarly, MDR-S. haemolyticus(44%), MDR-S. epidermidis(65%), and MDR-S.chromogenes(52%) were mainly resistant to penicillins. The most common resistance patterns observed were resistance to penicillin-ampicillin (16%) and penicillin-ampicillin-erythromycin (10%). Only 42% of biofilm positive CoNS were MDR.

Conclusion

The majority of CoNS in this study were resistance to penicillins. In addition, most isolates were β-lactam resistant and MDR. Biofilm formation among the CoNS in this study was uncommon and there was no significant difference in the proportion of MDR-CoNS based on the ability to form a biofilm.