bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma viscosity: Evaluation of a new measuring method using microfluidic chip technology (microVisc™) for clinical use and determination of a new reference range
Authors: Jørgensen Louise H , Møller Vivi S , Revsholm Jesper
Published: April 2020

Background

Plasma viscosity is an important biomarker both in diagnostics and treatment monitoring of plasma cell dyscrasias and other disorders with hyperviscosity syndrome as a clinical manifestation. Here, we investigate the performance of a new microfluidic-based viscometer for clinical use, establish a new reference range to be used with this instrument and determine the importance of sampling temperature.

Methods

The microVisc™ viscometer was evaluated for within-run and between-run imprecision and bias using standardized reference material (Paragon controls) and Seronorm™ control material. The reference range was established for the adult population using EDTA-plasma from 120 healthy blood donors. Sampling temperature was investigated by drawing and transporting blood at room temperature and 37°C and comparing the viscosity between the two sampling methods.

Results

The microfluidic-based viscometer performed well, and imprecision was comparable to ReoRox® G2 free oscillation rheometer. A new reference range for the adult Danish population was established as 1.2–1.5 mPa s at 37°C. Furthermore, sampling temperature at room temperature and 37°C was investigated, and there was no difference in results obtained.

Conclusions

MicroVisc™ is suitable for measuring plasma viscosity in a clinical setting and results can be evaluated using the established reference range. Blood sampling for viscosity analysis can be performed as a standard procedure at room temperature.
An improved 2-degree-of-freedom internal model proportional–integral–derivative controller design for stable time-delay processes
Authors: Wu Sheng , Li Ziwei , Zhang Ridong
Published: April 2020

In this article, an enhanced 2-degree-of-freedom internal model control strategy for typical industrial processes with time-delay is developed. For the proposed controller, it is composed of an inner loop feedback controller which is designed based on the internal model control theory and a weighted set-point tracking controller. Note that the adjustment of set-point tracking performance and disturbance rejection characteristics can be decoupled by employing the developed strategy, which indicates that more degrees of freedom are obtained for the proposed controller design; thus, better ensemble performance and stronger robustness are anticipated by regulating these two controllers separately, which may not be achieved in the conventional internal model control method. Case studies on two kinds of stable processes with time-delay verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme finally.
Photo Taking Paradox: Contrasting Effects of Photo Taking on Travel Satisfaction and Revisit Intention
Authors: Lee Jacob C. , Cui Yuanyuan (Gina) , Kim Jungkeun , Seo Yuri , Chon Hyunji
Published: April 2020

The present research establishes that taking photos has a paradoxical dual effect on travelers’ satisfaction and revisit intention. Across five empirical studies, we show that while taking photographs increases travelers’ satisfaction with an experience, it simultaneously decreases travelers’ intention to revisit the same experience. The increased psychological engagement induced by photo taking is the underlying mechanism behind this dual effect. Specifically, the greater engagement increases satisfaction with an experience, but it also makes it easier for travelers to remember the experience and, therefore, diminishes the perceived utility of revisiting the same experience. Hence, travelers are less likely to go back to a place if they have taken photographs of it during a visit. An intriguing implication arising from these findings is that while allowing photographs can be an effective policy to attract first-time travelers, prohibiting photography is more effective for encouraging revisits.
The probability of a robust inference for internal validity
Authors: Li Tenglong , Frank Ken
Published: April 2020

The internal validity of observational study is often subject to debate. In this study, we define the counterfactuals as the unobserved sample and intend to quantify its relationship with the null hypothesis statistical testing (NHST). We propose the probability of a robust inference for internal validity, that is, the PIV, as a robustness index of causal inference. Formally, the PIV is the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis again based on both the observed sample and the counterfactuals, provided the same null hypothesis has already been rejected based on the observed sample. Under either frequentist or Bayesian framework, one can bound the PIV of an inference based on his bounded belief about the counterfactuals, which is often needed when the unconfoundedness assumption is dubious. The PIV is equivalent to statistical power when the NHST is thought to be based on both the observed sample and the counterfactuals. We summarize the process of evaluating internal validity with the PIV into a six-step procedure and illustrate it with an empirical example.
The Orientation and Mobility Specialist and Braille: Point–Counter Point Arguments for and Against the Need for the Knowledge of Braille
Authors: Penrod William M. , Griffin-Shirley Nora , Hollinger Kevin , Burgin Ximena , Smolka Samantha , Okungu Phoebe A. , Steinle Kyle J. , Obiero Nereah A.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Few academic discussions are more contentious in the field of orientation and mobility than the notion of whether or not O&M specialists need to know braille. To help answer this question, we developed a survey.

Methods:

An online survey instrument was distributed through O&M electronic discussion groups. The survey included a demographic section, a section concerning the use of braille for instructional purposes, questions about the importance of braille in the training and certification of O&M specialists, the level of knowledge of braille required, and whether or not respondents considered braille an essential job function.

Results:

Most participants ( n = 108) believed or strongly believed that braille should be a separate course in personnel preparation programs and should be required for O&M personnel preparation programs accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). Slightly less than half (42%) of respondents believed or strongly believed that braille should be required for Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) certification in O&M ( n = 80; 22 respondents were undecided). Discussion: The field of visual impairment (i.e., blindness or low vision) needs to examine closely the amount of time, number of personnel required, and financial cost of pursuing braille as a competency for O&M specialists. Personnel costs may include additional resources to assist ACVREP in changing its requirements to include braille and the revision of the examination to reflect this new requirement, universities in hiring faculty to develop new programs of study to include coursework involving braille, and AER’s Higher Education Accreditation Commission in changing the AER University Review Accreditation Curricular Standards: Orientation and Mobility Specialists.

Implications for practitioners:

This study provided a snapshot of what a group ( N = 189) of vision professionals believe regarding the importance of braille in O&M—141 of that group were certified in O&M; the remainder identified themselves as having multiple certifications. Further research is needed, especially including more representation of rehabilitation professionals, to obtain more input concerning this controversial topic.
An Exploratory Look at the Growth and Success of Crowdfunding in the Public Space
Authors: Mayer Martin
Published: April 2020

The digital age has changed the way we consume information and left organizations struggling to adapt to new technologies and information exchange mechanisms. Civic crowdfunding is one such new technology that has the potential to redefine what local government means from an individual and administrative perspective, but there remains little knowledge about what it is and where it fits in the public space. This research attempts to unravel these questions by providing an overview of the field of civic crowdfunding and explaining what types of projects are undertaken, what projects are successfully funded, and what factors lead to successful projects.
Methylphenidate treatment increases hippocampal BDNF levels but does not improve memory deficits in hypoxic-ischemic rats
Authors: Miguel Patrícia Maidana , Deniz Bruna Ferrary , Confortim Heloísa Deola , de Almeida Wellington , Bronauth Loise Peres , Vieira Milene Cardoso , Bertoldi Karine , Siqueira Ionara Rodrigues , Silveira Patrícia Pelufo , Pereira Lenir Orlandi
Published: April 2020

Background:

Methylphenidate (MPH) is a stimulant drug mainly prescribed to treat cognitive impairments in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We demonstrated that neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) induced attentional deficits in rats and MPH administration reversed these deficits. However, MPH effects on memory deficits after the HI procedure have not been evaluated yet.

Aims:

We aimed to analyze learning and memory performance of young hypoxic-ischemic rats after MPH administration and associate their performance with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.

Methods:

Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups ( n=11–13/group): control saline (CTS), control MPH (CTMPH), HI saline (HIS) and HIMPH. The HI procedure was conducted at post-natal day (PND) 7 and memory tasks between PND 30 and 45. MPH administration (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) occurred 30 min prior to each behavioral session and daily, for 15 days, for the BDNF assay ( n=5–7/group).

Results:

As expected, hypoxic-ischemic animals demonstrated learning and memory deficits in the novel-object recognition (NOR) and Morris water maze (MWM) tasks. However, MPH treatment did not improve learning and memory deficits of these animals in the MWM—and even disrupted the animals’ performance in the NOR task. Increased BDNF levels were found in the hippocampus of HIMPH animals, which seem to have been insufficient to improve memory deficits observed in this group.

Conclusions:

The MPH treatment was not able to improve memory deficits resulting from the HI procedure considering a dose of 2.5 mg/kg. Further studies investigating different MPH doses would be necessary to determine a dose–response relationship in this model.
A Comparison Between Selected Noncommunicable Disease Mortality Rates Between 2010 and 2016 Among Selected Southern African Countries
Authors: Ellapen T. J. , Barnard M. , Strydom G. L. , Masime K. M. , Paul Y.
Published: April 2020

Researchers have identified cancer, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases as being the principal pathologies of increased aged standardized death rates (ASDRs) among noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The objective of this study was to compare the change in the ASDR of these principal NCDs between the years 2010 and 2016 in Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. ASDR data were collected from the 2016 Global Health Estimate. Among the selected Southern African countries for both 2010 and 2016, the order of prevalence of NCDs linked to increased ASDR was cardiovascular diseases (both cardiac and stroke), cancer, diabetes mellitus, and chronic respiratory diseases. The percentage of the total number of NCDs linked to increased ASDR in relation to total deaths increased from 43.8% (in 2010) to 51.0% (in 2016) from ( p < .0001). The percentage of principal NCDs in relation to total ASDR increased from 33.0% (in 2010) to 38.2% (in 2016; p < .0001).
Effect of Face-to-Face Education on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward “Traffic Light” Food Labeling in Isfahan Society, Iran
Authors: Esfandiari Zahra , Mirlohi Maryam , Tanha Jila M , Hadian Marjan , Mossavi Sayed Isa , Ansariyan Akbar , Ghassami Neda , Adib Shahnaz , Bahraini Tahereh , Safaeian Leila , Pakmehr Farzaneh , Mashhadian Farnaz , Abolhasani Maryam , Marasi Mohammad Reza , Isteki Fatemeh , Abedi Roya , Ghorbani Parvin , Shoaei Parisa , Kelishadi Roya
Published: April 2020

Emerging noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with premature mortality are one of the major concerns in health supervising organizations of the world. High intake of energy, salt, sugar, fat, and trans fatty acids are introduced as dietary risk factors of NCDs. The status of food risk factors is presented in Traffic Light (TL) food labeling through colors of red, yellow, and green as the signs of stop, wait and watch and go, respectively. This stepwise interventional study examined whether TL education can result in choosing healthier food via assessing the impact of face-to-face educational sessions on knowledge, attitudes, and practices of 673 respondents toward TL food labeling through a self-administered and structured questionnaire. Paired t test or alternatively Wilcoxon test was used to evaluate the influence of education in total scores of knowledge, attitudes, and practices in test–retest. Results indicated that before education, the average of the scores for the knowledge, attitudes, and practices was 1.003 ± 0.69, 10.97 ± 1.86, and 1.60 ± 1.84, respectively. After education, the scores were increased to 8.72 ± 3.11, 15.95 ± 2.64, and 8.42 ± 1.69. Significant differences in the scores of the respondents were observed before and after education ( p < .05). This study revealed that the intervention of education had positive effect on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the studied population. Even though general awareness about the food risk factors of NCDs existed, special education is required to make public TL and food labeling information usage as an actual guidance for every food item in Iran.
Automatic orbital computed tomography coordinating method and quantitative error evaluation based on signed distance field
Authors: Zhai Guangtao , Yin Ziqing , Li Lunhao , Song Xuefei , Zhou Yixiong
Published: April 2020

Background

Orbital computed tomography (CT) is commonly used for the diagnosis and digital evaluation of orbital diseases. Yet, this approach requires longer scanning time, increased radiation exposure, and, especially, difficult patient positioning that can affect judgment and data processing. According to high-quality research on orbital imaging, computer-assisted surgery, and artificial intelligent diagnostic development, the correction of a coordinate system is a necessary procedure. Nevertheless, existing manual calibration methods are challenging to reproduce and there is no objective evaluation system for errors.

Purpose

To establish a method for automatic calibration of orbital CT images and implementation of quantitative error evaluation.

Material and Methods

A standard three-dimensional (3D) orbit model was manually adjusted, and optimized orbital models were reconstructed based on the initial registration of the skull-bound directed bounding box and the registration of the mutual information method. The calibration error was calculated based on the signed distance field. Seventeen cases of orbital CT were quantitatively evaluated.

Results

A new method for automatic calibration and quantitative error evaluation for orbital CT was established. The calibrated model error with ±2 mm accounted for 81.61% ± 6.91% of the total models, and the error of ±1 mm accounted for 53.49% ± 7.07% of the total models.

Conclusion

This convenient tool for orbital CT automatic calibration may promote the related quantitative research based on orbital CT. The automated operation and small error are beneficial to the popularization and application of the tool, and the quantitative evaluation facilitates other coordinate systems.
Blending Efficiency and Effective Styrene Butadiene Rubber Concentration of Micro-Surfacing Mixtures with Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Wang Anping , Shen Shihui
Published: April 2020

Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) has been used in micro-surfacing mixtures with good promise and improved sustainability. However, no systematic study has been conducted to analyze the chemical components of the RAP micro-surfacing mixture when blending virgin binder with RAP binder, and to confirm the reasonableness of using RAP micro-surfacing mixtures. Based on a gap-graded method, this paper explored the chemical properties of RAP micro-surfacing mixtures using attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and fluorescence microscopy, and explained the blending mechanism between the RAP and the cold mixture. The blending efficiency and effective styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) concentration were quantified based on various chemical component parameters. The results showed that partial blending existed for RAP micro-surfacing mixtures. It was found that the diffusion happened from the outer layer of the RAP mixture as a result of the coating of emulsion, and could continuously and gradually happen for the RAP mixture, giving higher blending efficiency for a high RAP content mixture. The addition of RAP makes SBR particles more dispersible. Including rejuvenators and increasing curing time could improve the blending efficiency and the effective modifier concentration.
Developing an Optimization Tool for Selecting Gravel Roads Maintenance Strategies using a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Aleadelat Waleed , Albatayneh Omar , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: April 2020

As part of the efforts by Wyoming Technology Transfer Center (WYT2/LTAP) to develop a gravel roads management system (GRMS) in Wyoming, this research study developed a user-friendly tool, using JavaScript, which implements an optimization model based on genetic algorithms (GA). The developed tool will help decision makers and local agencies in managing gravel roads efficiently. Using this tool, a decision maker will be able to identify the most appropriate treatment type for each road, based on service level, estimated project costs, predicted road conditions, and whether to fund a project or not. The optimization model aims to maximize the overall condition of the gravel roads network subject to the average daily traffic (ADT) on each road. The developed tool can be applied to large-scale optimization problems (i.e., gravel roads network). The tool operates with minimal data requirements that are in line with procedures regularly followed at these agencies. In addition to having an engineered outcome, this tool can help local agencies in allocating their limited available funds efficiently, enhancing the planning process, maximizing the social welfare of the local economy, and promoting a sense of general satisfaction within the local community. A case study using data from Laramie County was used to validate this tool. The initial results were promising and in line with previous efforts to manage gravel roads in Wyoming.
To Help “La Gente”: Examining Helping People as a Motivation for Becoming an Officer in the Los Angeles Police Department Among Male Mexican American Officers
Authors: Gallardo Roberto
Published: April 2020

The most commonly declared motivation for pursuing a career in law enforcement is helping people. As part of a study focusing on male Mexican American police officers in the Los Angeles Police Department, data were collected on initial motivations of police officers. The data reveal that a significant motivation for respondents was not only helping people but specifically helping minority communities receive improved services. This motivation stems from their interactions and perception of police while growing up in minority communities. Based on the findings, this article concludes with a call for a more grounded approach to research on Latinos in law enforcement.
Physiological status and functional anatomy of zebra fish (Danio rerio) exposed to various levels of Ga3+
Authors: Chang Yung-Ta , Yang Jen-Lee , Chang Jui-Sheng , Yang Yu-Wen
Published: April 2020

Gallium (Ga) is one of the intermetallic elements that has been used in cancer treatment for a long time. However, Ga compounds are increasingly being used to make high-speed semiconductors and photoelectric devices. The current work investigated physiological and pathological changes in zebra fish ( Danio rerio) exposed to various Ga3+ levels (0.55, 1.5, and 3.85 mg/L) over a 14-day test period. Decreases in oxygen consumption were significant ( p < 0.05) for groups exposed to 3.85 Ga3+ mg/L; this was associated with the fusion of zebra fish gills lamellae. Serum biochemical changes (including aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase) were consistent with observations of damage to organelles within the hepatocytes at higher Ga3+ exposure levels (1.5 and 3.85 mg/L) in zebra fish. We propose <0.55 Ga3+ mg/L as a biologically safe concentration that can be used to establish water quality criteria for this teleost model.
Racial Disparities in Adult Blunt Trauma Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Chou Raymond L. , Grigorian Areg , Nahmias Jeffry , Schubl Sebastian D. , Delaplain Patrick T. , Barrios Cristobal
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Study incidence and mortality for blunt trauma patients developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) across race and insurance.

Design:

The National Trauma Data Bank (2007-2015) was queried for blunt trauma patients age >16. Covariates (age >65, injury severity score [ISS] >25, traumatic brain injury, lung injury, pneumonia, severe sepsis, hypotension on admission, and blood transfusion) were included in a multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Setting:

Despite progress in the treatment for ARDS, it remains a significant concern. Racial differences in response to trauma and ARDS have been inconsistently demonstrated. Since these prior studies, ARDS has been redefined by the Berlin Criteria, advances in care have been made, and health-care accessibility has changed.

Patients:

Adult blunt trauma patients with ISS > 15 and length of stay ≥ 3 days to examine patients at high risk of ARDS.

Measurements and Main Results:

There were 28 727 patients with ARDS. Most were white (76.2%), followed by blacks (11.5%), Hispanics (11.3%), and Asians (1.8%). Overall mortality was 20.5%. Compared to whites, blacks (odds ratio [OR]: 1.15, confidence interval [CI]: 1.10-1.20, P < .001) had higher risk of ARDS, being Hispanic was protective (OR: 0.80, CI: 0.76-0.83, P < .001). Asians with ARDS were at greater risk of death (OR: 1.31, CI: 1.07-1.61, P < .05) while being black was not associated with risk of death. Patients with private insurance had less diagnosed ARDS and those with ARDS had lower mortality than other insurances (OR: 0.86, CI: 0.79-0.92, P < .001).

Conclusions:

Data from the National Trauma Data Bank (2007-2015) demonstrates racial and insurance disparities in the development of ARDS in blunt trauma patients. When compared to whites, blacks are at higher risk of developing ARDS while being Hispanic is protective. Likewise, Asians are at greatest risk of death and blacks have no difference in mortality when compared to whites. Patients with private insurance have lower risk of incidence and mortality.
Microstructure, mechanical properties, residual stresses and texture analysis of Ti-5Al-2.5Sn alloy weldments obtained using electron beam of different oscillation patterns
Authors: Iltaf Asim , Junaid Massab , khan Fahd N , Hussain Azhar
Published: April 2020

Electron beam welding was used for welding of Ti-5Al-2.5Sn alloy using three types of beam oscillation patterns, i.e. elliptical, concentric circles and arrow shape waveform. The influence of these patterns on microstructure, mechanical properties and residual stresses was investigated using optical microscopy, electron back scattered diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, microhardness measurement, residual stress measurement, impact testing, smooth and notch tensile testing. A partial martensitic transformation was observed in the fusion zone of all the three welding patterns. The fusion zone of arrow pattern weldment exhibited approximately 16% and 1.2% higher hardness than elliptical and concentric circles patterns, respectively. Owing to an improved texture of the basal and prismatic planes in the cross-weld direction, the arrow pattern showed improved strength, reduced tensile residual stresses than elliptical and concentric circles pattern. Elliptical pattern showed superior elongation characteristics as well as increased impact strength as compared to the arrow and concentric circle patterns.
Torque vectoring system design for hybrid electric–all wheel drive vehicle
Authors: Cho Jeongmin , Huh Kunsoo
Published: April 2020

A torque vectoring system is designed for the hybrid electric–all wheel drive vehicle where the front and rear wheels are powered by the combustion engine and electric motors, respectively. The vehicle provides enhanced handling performance by a twin motor drive unit that can distribute the driving and regenerative braking torques to the rear-left and rear-right wheels independently. Based on the driver’s intention, a sliding mode controller is designed to calculate the desired traction force and yaw moment for the vehicle. The force distribution between the front and rear axles is investigated considering the principle of the friction circle, and characteristics of the engine and drive motors. The vertical tire force is estimated using the random walk Kalman filter for the proportional distribution between the front and rear longitudinal forces. For the torque distribution between the rear-left and rear-right wheels, an optimization problem is formulated by considering the constraints of the friction circle and motor characteristics. The proposed algorithm is evaluated in a simulation environment first by reflecting the characteristics of the hybrid electric–all wheel drive modules. Then, the test vehicle is utilized to validate the handling performance experimentally and to compare with the uncontrolled cases.
Three-dimensional modelling of wheelchair contrived with lower limb exoskeleton for right hemiplegic dysfunction
Authors: Nithyaa AN , Poonguzhali S , Vigneshwari N
Published: April 2020

Hemiplegia is a type of paralysis that affects one side of the body due to stroke, characterizing severe weakness or rigid movement. Many people of different age groups are affected by this condition which cannot be completely cured but can be minimized through proper physiotherapy. A continuous and repeated exercise has to be given to the hemiplegic subjects to regain their motor function. To serve this purpose, a three-dimensional model of wheelchair contrived with lower limb exoskeleton is designed and motion analysis is done using SolidWorks. This virtual model of the object is created with the assistance of computer-aided design software. Professionals can be able to do the experiment on what-if scenarios with their three-dimensional designs, which helps to validate their devices and identify any snags with design quality. The pattern of behaviour of lower limb exoskeleton is predicted using SimMechanics in MATLAB.
An empirical model to determine lift and drag coefficients of cambered plates at moderate Reynolds numbers
Authors: Balla Esztella , Vad János
Published: April 2020

This article presents the lift and drag coefficients of cambered plate blade sections of different relative camber at moderate Reynolds numbers. Relative cambers between 0% and 8% are investigated at an angle of attack range from 0° to 10°. Based on own measurements and literature data, empirical formulae are proposed for the determination of the lift and drag coefficients for Reynolds numbers within the range of 60,000 to 300,000. The formulae determine the lift and drag coefficients as a function of angle of attack, relative camber, and Reynolds number. Third-order polynomials have been proven to be suitable for the empirical formulae. The coefficients of the third-order polynomials have been determined and reported by the authors herein.
Temperature distribution estimation via data-driven model and adaptive Kalman filter in modular data centers
Authors: Jiang Kai , Shi Shizhu , Moazanigoodarzi Hosein , Hu Chuan , Pal Souvik , Yan Fengjun
Published: April 2020

With the rapid development of information and communications technology, increasing number of data centers is required to support the cloud computing, and critical web-based services that run our daily lives. The conventional cloud data centers usually adopt computer room air conditioner or inRow units as the cooling sytem, while the rack mountable cooling unit is a more promising equipment due to the economy, exact controllability, flexibility, and scalability. To ensure the efficiency of control system in rack mountable cooling unit and the security of servers in the data centers, the information of temperature distribution is very essential. Basically, the temperature distribution could be obtained through physical sensors easily. However, considering the cost of whole system and the burden of fault diagnosis in sensor networks, the number of temperature sensors should be kept down to a bare minimum. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an effective and real-time observer to estimate the temperature distribution in the system. Besides, due to the complex air flow and heat transfer in the container, it is quite difficult to construct a physics model. To this end, a novel observer embracing data-driven model and adaptive Kalman filter is proposed in this work. Auto regression exogenous model is adopted as the framework of data-driven model, and the model is identified through a algorithm of partial least square. Moreover, to represent the nonlinear behaviors in the system, fuzzy c-means is applied for data classification and getting multiple local linear models. Finally, adaptive Kalman filter is utilized to estimate the temperature distribution on the basis of proposed data-driven model. The estimation results based on experimental data indicate the performance of proposed approach is remarkable.
Thrombotic microangiopathy in the course of catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome successfully treated with eculizumab: case report and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Skoczynska Marta , Crowther Mark A , Chowaniec Malgorzata , Ponikowska Monika , Chaturvedi Shruti , Legault Kimberly
Published: April 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to characterize the role of eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody against the terminal complement component C5, in patients with catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS).

Methods

We present a case report of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and CAPS treated with eculizumab, as well as results of a systematic review of the literature.

Results

Including our patient, we identified 11 case reports of patients with CAPS treated with eculizumab. All of them had partial or total remission of symptoms.

Conclusion

Data on eculizumab efficacy in CAPS are promising but are limited to single case reports. More studies are needed to develop evidence-based recommendations for eculizumab use in CAPS.
A Likely Role for a Novel Cell Therapeutic Target of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 on Radiation Pneumonitis in Lung and Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients
Authors: Yin Qin , Zhu Bing , Zhang Jixian , Yu Yihan , Li Pengcheng
Published: April 2020

The association between the polymorphism of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and risk of radiation pneumonitis has been extensively investigated; however, conclusive results were unavailable. Eligible studies were identified from the database of Medline, Web of Science, EMBASE, and CNKI (China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database) up to September 2019. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to assess the strength of the relationship. The results showed that there were associations between TGF 869 T/C (rs1982073) and risks of radiation pneumonitis. Subgroup analyses showed that TGF 869 T/C was associated with risk of radiation pneumonitis in Caucasians (OR [95% CI]: 0.45 [0.31 to 0.67] for C carriers vs. TT). In addition, subgroup analyses also suggested that the C allele was associated with decreased risks of radiation pneumonitis among hospital-based case–control studies (0.56 [0.39 to 0.82] for C carriers vs. TT). Meanwhile, C allele was also suggested to be associated with decreased risk of radiation pneumonitis among PCC (0.60 [0.38 to 0.96] for C carriers vs. TT). Especially, C allele was also found to be associated with decreased risk of radiation pneumonitis from the participants with lung cancer (0.57 [0.37 to 0.90] for C carriers vs. TT). Our meta-analysis shows that T allele in TGF 869 T/C is significantly associated with the increased risk of radiation pneumonitis, especially for Caucasians, and for the participants with lung cancer.
Transplantation of sh-miR-199a-5p-Modified Olfactory Ensheathing Cells Promotes the Functional Recovery in Rats with Contusive Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Gao Zhengchao , Zhao Yingjie , He Xijing , Leng Zikuan , Zhou Xiaoqian , Song Hui , Wang Rui , Gao Zhongyang , Wang Yiqun , Liu Jiantao , Niu Binbin , Li Haopeng , Ouyang Pengrong , Chang Su’e
Published: April 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) function as gene expression switches, and participate in diverse pathophysiological processes of spinal cord injury (SCI). Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) can alleviate pathological injury and facilitate functional recovery after SCI. However, the mechanisms by which OECs restore function are not well understood. This study aims to determine whether silencing miR-199a-5p would enhance the beneficial effects of the OECs. In this study, we measured miR-199a-5p levels in rat spinal cords with and without injury, with and without OEC transplants. Then, we transfected OECs with the sh-miR-199a-5p lentiviral vector to reduce miR-199a-5p expression and determined the effects of these OECs in SCI rats by Basso–Beattie–Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scores, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and histological methods. We used western blotting to measure protein levels of Slit1, Robo2, and srGAP2. Finally, we used the dual-luciferase reporter assay to assess the relationship between miR-199-5p and Slit1, Robo2, and srGAP2 expression. We found that SCI significantly increased miR-199a-5p levels ( P < 0.05), and OEC transplants significantly reduced miR-199a-5p expression ( P < 0.05). Knockdown of miR-199a-5p in OECs had a better therapeutic effect on SCI rats, indicated by higher BBB scores and fractional anisotropy values on DTI, as well as histological findings. Reducing miR-199a-5p levels in transplanted OECs markedly increased spinal cord protein levels of Slit1, Robo2, and srGAP2. Our results demonstrated that transplantation of sh-miR-199a-5p-modified OECs promoted functional recovery in SCI rats, suggesting that miR-199a-5p knockdown was more beneficial to the therapeutic effects of OEC transplants. These findings provided new insights into miRNAs-mediated therapeutic mechanisms of OECs, which helps us to develop therapeutic strategies based on miRNAs and optimize cell therapy for SCI.
Joseph Wright of Derby and Dr Erasmus Darwin, the artist and his physician
Authors: Hoffbrand Barry I
Published: April 2020

In 1767 at the time of his great “candlelight” paintings of science and the Enlightenment, The Orrery and The Air-Pump, Wright of Derby developed the illness that plagued him for the rest of his life and became a patient and life-long friend of Dr Erasmus Darwin. Wright’s recorded complaints and the periodicity are highly suggestive of the major depressive illness, seasonal affective disorder.
Explicit model predictive control of semi-active suspension systems with magneto-rheological dampers subject to input constraints
Authors: Mai Van Ngoc , Yoon Dal-Seong , Choi Seung-Bok , Kim Gi-Woo
Published: April 2020

This article presents vibration control of a semi-active quarter-car suspension system equipped with a magneto-rheological damper that provides the physical constraint of a damping force. In this study, model predictive control was designed to handle the constraints of control input (i.e. the limited damping force). The explicit solution of model predictive control was computed using multi-parametric programming to reduce the computational time for real-time implementation and then adopted in the semi-active suspension system. The control performance of model predictive control was compared with that of a clipped linear-quadratic optimal controller, where the damping force was bound using a standard saturation function. Two types of road conditions (bump and random excitation) were applied to the suspension system, and the vibration control performance was evaluated through both simulations and experiments.
Comparison of Microbial Activity Among Infants With or Without Using Presurgical Nasoalveolar Molding Appliance
Authors: Hassani Hanieh , Chen Jung-Wei , Zhang Wu , Hamra William
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

The aim of the current study is as follows: (1) to study whether wearing the presurgical nasoalveolar molding appliance (PNAM) had facilitated the establishment of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus ( LB) and to determine other factors including pH and caries susceptibility associated with wearing the PNAM.

Methods:

Saliva samples of 61 infants (4.5 ± 2.06 months old) were collected from the following 3 groups: PNAM (n = 23), healthy (n = 30), and cleft lip and palate (CLP) without any treatment (n = 8). Saliva samples were assessed using selective agar to enumerate total LB and S mutans and subjected to adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-driven bioluminescence determinations using a luciferin-based assay system, and pH level was evaluated. One-way analysis of variance with least significant difference post hoc test ( P < .05) and Pearson correlation were used to evaluate S mutans, LB, pH, and ATP levels.

Results:

A total of 63 patients (30 healthy patients, 23 patients with cleft lip/palate who had PNAM appliance and 8 patients with cleft lip/palate who did not use the appliance) were seen in this study. There is a significant difference in pH ( P = .012), LB Caries Risk Test ( P < .001), LB colony count ( P < .001), S mutans Caries Risk Test ( P < .001), and S mutans colony count ( P < .001) among the 3 groups (PNAM > CLP > healthy). The ATP level was not significantly different among the 3 groups.

Conclusion:

Higher bacterial count and lower pH were found in the PNAM group. Cleft lip and/or palate patients wearing the PNAM appliance are at higher risk for dental caries.
Quantification of Mandibular Morphology in Pierre Robin Sequence to Optimize Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis
Authors: Volk Angela S. , Davis Matthew J. , Narawane Amit M. , Abu-Ghname Amjed , Dempsey Robert F. , Lambert Elton M. , Tran Brandon (Huy) , Wirthlin John O. , Buchanan Edward P.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) is the primary surgical intervention to treat airway obstruction in Pierre Robin sequence (PRS). Current morphologic studies of PRS mandibles do not translate into providing airway management decisions. We compare mandibles of infants with nonsyndromic PRS to controls characterizing morphological variances relevant to distraction. We also examine how morphologic measurements and airway grades correlate with airway management.

Methods:

Patients with PRS under 2 months old were age and sex matched to controls. Demographic and perioperative data, and Cormack-Lehane airway grades were recorded. Computed tomography scans were used to generate mandibular models. Bilateral condylions, gonions, and the menton were identified. Linear and angular measurements were made. Wilcoxon rank sum and 2-sample t tests were performed.

Results:

Twenty-four patients with PRS and 24 controls were included. Seventeen patients with PRS required MDO. PRS patients had shorter ramus heights (16.7 vs 17.3 mm; P = .346) and mandibular body lengths (35.3 vs 39.3 mm; P < .001), more acute gonial angles (125.3° vs 131.3°; P < .001), and more obtuse intergonial angles (94.2° vs 80.4°; P < .001) compared to controls. No significant differences were found among patients requiring MDO versus conservative management nor among distracted patients with high versus low airway grades.

Conclusion:

Our study examines the largest and youngest PRS population to date regarding management of early airway obstruction with MDO. Our findings indicate that univector mandibular body distraction allows for normalization in nonsyndromic patients with PRS, and airway obstruction management decisions should remain clinical.
Celebration of Life
Authors: Giorgio Grace Ann
Published: April 2020

As an autoethnography, “A Celebration of Life” takes an observer’s view of a family’s intergenerational dysfunction and breakdown in communication. As the extended family prepares to celebrate the life of the recently deceased matriarch, tensions arise between family members, resulting in one member being hospitalized for a week much again her will. Delusional thoughts convince her that her husband has placed her there so that he can take the children to the family celebration without her. As a bystander, the author witnesses the results of this short-term institutionalization from afar. The narrator’s distanced and abstracted voice is meant to show how witnessing the trauma surrounding intergenerational familial and mental struggles can be alienating. Each scene, however, provides insight into each family member’s struggles, leading the narrator to find an alternative to the family’s “Celebration of Life.”
Drug-related problems and its associated factors among breast cancer patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia: A hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Degu Amsalu , Kebede Kassu
Published: April 2020

Background

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide. If untreated and undetected at the early stage, it causes death by spreading to distant organs. Despite various studies suggesting the high prevalence of drug-related problems among cancer patients, there was a paucity of data regarding the problems among breast cancer patients in our setting. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the drug-related problems among patients with breast cancer at the Oncology Unit of the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Oncology Unit of the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. The data were collected by retrospective reviewing medical records of 107 breast cancer patients. The data entry and analysis were done using SPSS version 20.0 statistical software. Descriptive statistics such as percent and frequency were used to summarize categorical variables of patients’ characteristics. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the potential predictors of drug-related problems. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 203 drug-related problems were identified from 76 breast cancer patients, translating to a prevalence of 71.03%. Among the drug-related problems identified, adverse drug reaction (48.6%), need for additional drug therapy (45.8%), and non-adherence (32.7%) were the most prevalent. In the multivariable analysis, breast cancer patients who had concurrent co-morbidities were almost three times (AOR = 2.97, p = 0.035) more likely to experience drug-related problems as compared to those patients without co-morbidity. Moreover, those patients who had been treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapeutic regimens were 0.34 times less likely (crude odd ratio = 0.34, p = 0.023) to have drug-related problems as compared to patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy regimens.

Conclusion

The prevalence of drug-related problems was high in our setting. Adverse drug reactions, the need for additional drug therapy, and non-adherence were the most frequently occurring drug-related problems in the study setting. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the presence of co-morbidities were significant predictors of drug-related problems among breast cancer patients.
Affirmative gender equality policies in Central and Eastern Europe: Moving beyond the EU requirements
Authors: Beloshitzkaya Vera
Published: April 2020

What affects the adoption of affirmative gender equality measures across Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, given that the European Union directives do not require them? Drawing on mandate theory of democracy and using original data on party positions on gender equality in eight postcommunist countries observed over 25 years, I argue that CEE political parties and their position on the issue are the answer to this empirical puzzle. Contrary to the earlier scholarship on new democracies that finds only limited mandate fulfillment (Roberts 2010; Stokes, 2001), the study shows that parties in government act responsively when it comes to gender equality promotion. My findings also demonstrate that it is parties, not feminist movements that drive the adoption of affirmative action policies in the region
Role of conservative management in low energy transfer penetrating shotgun abdominal injuries
Authors: Yehia Elbarmelgi Mohamed , AbdAllah Salman Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Background and aims

Penetrating abdominal trauma can be caused by a variety of weapons which require different management protocols. After a long era of mandatory laparotomy for abdominal gunshot wounds, the concept of selective laparotomy and conservative management in the form of serial observations has been introduced in some centers. This study aims to assess the feasibility and safety of conservative management and close observation of victims of low energy transfer shotgun penetrating abdominal injury.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of hemodynamically stable patients who had sustained low energy transfer shotgun injuries to the abdomen who presented to the surgical emergency department of Cairo University Hospitals from May 2016 to January 2019. They were subjected to a conservative management and follow-up protocol.

Results

A total of 250 patients (167 males and 83 females) were included. The conservative management protocol was successful in 217/250 patients (86.8%), unsuccessful in 22 patients (8.8%) where abdominal exploration was done either open or laparoscopically. Delayed diagnosis of bowel injury occurred in one patient (0.4%). There was one death (0.4%) and abdominal exploration was negative in 10 (4%) patients.

Conclusion

We recommend this conservative protocol for the victims of low energy transfer penetrating shotgun injuries which may save many patients from the morbidities of unnecessary laparotomy. We accept that the injury pattern may not be sufficiently common in many countries to allow comfort with this non-operative approach.