bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Petrogenesis of early Permian granitic dykes in the Wulanhuduge area, central Inner Mongolia, North China: constraints from geochronology, geochemistry, and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopes
Authors: Zhang Xiang-xin , Gao Yong-feng , Lei Shi-he
Published: November 2019

Early Permian granitic dykes are well developed in the Wulanhuduge area, central Inner Mongolia, North China. In this study, we investigated the petrography, geochronology, and whole-rock geochemistry of the granite porphyry dykes in the Wulanhuduge area. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry zircon U–Pb dating yielded 206Pb/238U ages of 289–288 Ma for these granite porphyry dykes, indicating they were emplaced in the early Permian. These granitic dykes are high in silica and alkali contents, and low in total Fe2O3, MgO, CaO, and P2O5 contents. They show enrichment in large-ion lithophile elements such as Rb, Ba, Th, U and K, and depletion in high field strength elements such as Nb, Ta, and Ti, typical of arc-like magma. Their Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic compositions indicate low initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.70306–0.70564), positive εNd(t) values (+3.3 to +3.9), and radiogenic Pb isotopes with (206Pb/204Pb)i of 18.080–18.616, (207Pb/204Pb)i of 15.497–15.555, and (208Pb/204Pb)i of 37.713–38.175. These geochemical data, along with petrological characteristics, suggest that they belong to high K calc-alkaline I-type granites and were generated by the partial melting of the mafic rocks from the pre-existing juvenile arc crust in a post-subduction extensional setting caused by slab breakoff. Therefore, the emplacement of these granite porphyry dykes in the Wulanhuduge area may represent the end stage of the subduction–accretion process in central Inner Mongolia.
Calibrating the Scientific Ecosystem Through Meta-Research
Authors: Hardwicke Tom E. , Serghiou Stylianos , Janiaud Perrine , Danchev Valentin , Crüwell Sophia , Goodman Steven N. , Ioannidis John P.A.
Published: November 2019

While some scientists study insects, molecules, brains, or clouds, other scientists study science itself. Meta-research, or research-on-research, is a burgeoning discipline that investigates efficiency, quality, and bias in the scientific ecosystem, topics that have become especially relevant amid widespread concerns about the credibility of the scientific literature. Meta-research may help calibrate the scientific ecosystem toward higher standards by providing empirical evidence that informs the iterative generation and refinement of reform initiatives. We introduce a translational framework that involves ( a) identifying problems, ( b) investigating problems, ( c) developing solutions, and ( d) evaluating solutions. In each of these areas, we review key meta-research endeavors and discuss several examples of prior and ongoing work. The scientific ecosystem is perpetually evolving; the discipline of meta-research presents an opportunity to use empirical evidence to guide its development and maximize its potential.
Integrative Deep Learning for Identifying Differentially Expressed (DE) Biomarkers
Authors: Lim Jayeon , Bang SoYoun , Kim Jiyeon , Park Cheolyong , Cho JunSang , Kim SungHwan
Published: November 2019

As a large amount of genetic data are accumulated, an effective analytical method and a significant interpretation are required. Recently, various methods of machine learning have emerged to process genetic data. In addition, machine learning analysis tools using statistical models have been proposed. In this study, we propose adding an integrated layer to the deep learning structure, which would enable the effective analysis of genetic data and the discovery of significant biomarkers of diseases. We conducted a simulation study in order to compare the proposed method with metalogistic regression and meta-SVM methods. The objective function with lasso penalty is used for parameter estimation, and the Youden J index is used for model comparison. The simulation results indicate that the proposed method is more robust for the variance of the data than metalogistic regression and meta-SVM methods. We also conducted real data (breast cancer data (TCGA)) analysis. Based on the results of gene set enrichment analysis, we obtained that TCGA multiple omics data involve significantly enriched pathways which contain information related to breast cancer. Therefore, it is expected that the proposed method will be helpful to discover biomarkers.
An Engel Curve for Variety
Authors: Li Nicholas
Published: November 2019

I examine the source and welfare implications of differences in household consumption diversity. I document the existence of a positive correlation between household variety and expenditure to motivate a simple framework where households purchase more varieties to counteract diminishing returns to quantity but face location-specific costs of accessing variety. Estimating the model with Indian household data, I find that the increase in dietary diversity between 1983 and 2009 was mostly due to lower costs of accessing variety, which resulted in large welfare gains. Urban households also benefit from a lower cost of accessing varieties than rural households.
Choice Architecture to Improve Financial Decision Making
Authors: Carpenter Jeffrey , Huet-Vaughn Emiliano , Matthews Peter Hans , Robbett Andrea , Beckett Dustin , Jamison Julian
Published: November 2019

We exploit the principles of choice architecture to evaluate interventions in the market for reloadable prepaid cards. Participants are randomized into three card menu presentation treatments—the market status quo, a regulation-inspired reform, or an enhanced reform designed to minimize attribute overload—and offered choices based on prior structural estimation of individual preferences. Consumers routinely choose incorrectly under the status quo, with tentative evidence that the regulation-inspired presentation may increase best card choice and clear evidence that the enhanced reform reduces worst card choice. Welfare analysis suggests the regulation-inspired presentation offers modest gains, while the enhanced policy generates substantial benefits.
Comply, Embrace, Cope, Countercrusade, Subvert: Teach For America Corps Members Respond to (Internal) and External Mandates
Authors: Veltri Barbara Torre , Brewer T. Jameson
Published: November 2019

In this empirical, qualitative study, Teach For America (TFA) corps member teachers’ lives are examined through the lens of George Posner’s seven “frame factors,” namely, (a) temporal, (b) physical, (c) cultural, (d) economic, (e) organizational, (f) political-legal, and (g) personal, which offer insight into the contextualized TFA experience from induction at Corps Training Institute (CTI) through the 2-year TFA teaching commitment. Hundreds of corps member responses to these frame factors and external mandates were coded and analyzed, using unpublished categories developed by Barone, with particular attention to the developmental time line of one’s educational platform on TFAers’ professional practice.
Enough of This Nonsense! Rape Is Rape: A Malaysian Perspective
Authors: Fernandez Janet Ann , Mohamad Nor Azmawaty
Published: November 2019

There is an average of five rape cases reported in Malaysia on a daily basis. The problem lies not in the hands of an individual or a few misogynistic men but in society as a whole. It lies in the mind-set of the people and every one of us taking part in rape culture by endorsing rape myths. Rape myth acceptance within the Malaysian society encourages sexual assaults or sexual violence. Some of the popular rape myths are the victim’s choice of clothing, emotional reactions of victims, presence of physical injuries, rape happens between strangers, women lie about rape, and men cannot be raped. These most common rape myths are discussed and then debunked. Subsequently, the aftermath of rape is explained. Proactive actions against rape are also presented as many of the existing school-based programs against rape are lopsided as women are taught on how to avoid rape instead of men being taught to respect women and prevent rape. This article aims to serve as an eye-opener for Malaysian counselors, psychologists, educators, and society as a whole to build up their knowledge, skills, and experience when working or dealing with rape victims.
“Forever in Our Hearts” Online: Virtual Deathscapes Maintain Companion Animal Presence
Authors: Eason Fenella
Published: November 2019

Embodying companion animals as part of ourselves obliges a similar grief, when they die, to the anguish that follows the death of a human partner, relative, or close friend. Individual mourning may fail to assuage pain that is further intensified when the bereaved human lacks society’s recognition not only of their grief but also of the intrinsic worth of their deceased animal companion. Such disenfranchised grief may lead to isolation and to withdrawal from social integration. However, diverse memorials recorded online, and reasons for their inclusion in cyberspace, are enabling validation of the lives of nonhuman animal companions by both isolated and more sociable pet-bereaved mourners.
One-stage repair of aortic coarctation and cardiac pathology via sternotomy
Authors: Charchyan Eduard R , Stepanenko Anna B , Galeev Nail A , Belov Yuri V
Published: November 2019

Background

Aortic coarctation is a hereditary disease often accompanied by ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic valve disease. We introduce a single-stage surgical treatment option for patients with aortic coarctation, ascending aortic aneurysm, and aortic valve disease, with a comparative analysis of the results.

Methods

The study included six patients with aortic coarctation, ascending aortic aneurysm, and aortic valve disease. All operations were performed by a full median sternotomy. For a comparative analysis, the patients were divided into two groups: 3 patients underwent ascending-to-descending aortic bypass, and the other 3 underwent surgical aortic coarctation repair. The short- and medium-term postoperative periods were monitored. The mean duration of monitoring was 27 months.

Results

When comparing the 2 groups, we observed a tendency for improvement in all intraoperative parameters in the 2nd group. There was no mortality in the postoperative hospital period. One (16.7%) patient died of stroke in the medium-term postoperative period. The other 5 patents showed no signs of procedure-related complications.

Conclusion

We recommend performing a single-stage procedure for surgical treatment of coarctation of the aorta with concomitant aneurysm of the ascending aorta and aortic valve disease. Compared to ascending-to-descending aortic bypass, surgical repair of aortic coarctation is more physiological, feasible via a sternotomy, and tends to improve intraoperative factors.
Do (Australian) jockeys have hot hands?
Authors: Wrathall Robert , Falvey Rod , Rajaguru Gulasekaran
Published: November 2019

We extend the empirical analysis of hot hands in sports to horse racing, using the winning streaks of a sample of jockeys riding in Australia. Grouping jockeys by strike rate (win percentage), we find evidence of hot hands across almost all strike rates. But considering jockeys individually, only a minority exhibit hot hands. A wagering strategy based on hot hands yields a negative return overall and for most hot hand jockeys, although some do yield a positive return. We conclude that hot hands are present but not ubiquitous and that this is generally recognised in the betting market.

JEL Classification: C53, D81, D84
Intersectionality, Leadership, and Inclusion: How Do Racially Underrepresented Women Fare in the Federal Government?
Authors: Nelson Ashley , Piatak Jaclyn
Published: November 2019

Women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions, but how does the intersectionality of being both a woman and from a racially underrepresented group influence leadership representation and inclusion in the U.S. federal government? This study answers the call of scholars to examine intersectionality that has received little attention in public administration despite the emphasis on representative bureaucracy and social equity. Drawing upon data from the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, we find that women from racially underrepresented groups are less likely to be supervisors and feel less included in the workplace. However, we find significant variation across dimensions of inclusion, where women from racially underrepresented groups are more likely to feel their workplaces are cooperative and empowering but less likely to view them as fair, open, or supportive. Findings illustrate the importance of examining both intersectionality and different aspects of inclusion to paint a more complete picture of diversity management efforts.
Sexual Assault, Campus Resource Use, and Psychological Distress in Undergraduate Women
Authors: Graham Amy C. , Mallinson R. Kevin , Krall Jenna R. , Annan Sandra L.
Published: November 2019

Undergraduate women are at high risk of experiencing sexual assault during their college years. Research has established a strong link between sexual victimization and psychological distress. Although the relationship between sexual victimization and distress has been established, little is known about how the use of university-affiliated sexual assault resources influences mental health outcomes for survivors. The aims of this cross-sectional study were to describe the characteristics of women who used campus survivor resources following a sexual assault during college, examine correlates of campus resource use, and examine correlates and predictors of mental health of women who have been sexually assaulted during college. An online anonymous survey was sent to undergraduate women at two public universities in a mid-Atlantic state. Participants were female, undergraduate students ( N = 362) who had been sexually assaulted during their time at college. Few women ( n = 98, 27.1%) used campus resources following a sexual assault. We found significant relationships between participants’ use of campus survivor resources and experiencing a sexual assault prior to entering college, experiencing more severe sexual assaults, acknowledging the assault as a rape, feeling more self-blame, and experiencing more psychological distress. Campus resource use was significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes. The cross-sectional nature of this study limited our ability to explore the reason for this. Further research is needed to explore the role campus resources play in supporting survivors during the recovery process. Given the high rate of sexual assaults on college campuses and the known negative psychological impact of sexual assault, it is imperative that campuses offer resources that are effective in meeting the needs of survivors.
Disclosing Unwanted Pursuit Victimization: Indirect Effects of Negative Reactions on PTSD Symptomatology Among Undergraduate Women
Authors: Dardis Christina M. , Davin Katie R. , Lietzau Stephanie B. , Gidycz Christine A.
Published: November 2019

A growing literature has documented that negative social reactions to disclosures of sexual and intimate partner violence (IPV), such as victim blaming or disbelief, can negatively affect survivors’ recovery. However, despite growing recognition of the frequency of unwanted pursuit behaviors (UPBs; for example, stalking, excessive or threatening contact) following romantic relationships and their negative effects on survivors, research to date has not explored disclosures, social reactions, or their impacts among victims of UPBs. The purpose of the present study was to assess the frequency of disclosures of UPB victimization to various sources, social reactions received, and their associations with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Among a sample of 318 undergraduate women (ages 18-24) who reported a breakup within the past 3 years, 59.7% ( n =190) reported experiencing UPBs. Nearly all of the women (92.6%; n =176) who experienced UPBs disclosed their victimization to others. Among women who disclosed, the most frequent recipient of disclosure was a female friend (93.2%, n = 164) and women reported receiving higher mean positive than negative social reactions ( p < .001). Results supported the hypothesized indirect effect of UPB victimization on PTSD symptoms through increases in negative social reactions ( p < .001); these results suggest that negative social reactions to UPB victimization may increase the risk for PTSD symptomatology. By contrast, there was no indirect effect via positive social reactions ( p = .205). Implications for research and clinical practice will be discussed.
Simulation and in vivo investigation of light-emitting diode, near infrared Gaussian beam profiles
Authors: Mirbagheri Mahya , Hakimi Naser , Ebrahimzadeh Elias , Setarehdan S Kamaledin
Published: November 2019

Near infrared spectroscopy is an optical imaging technique which offers a non-invasive, portable, and low-cost method for continuously measuring the oxygenation of tissues. In particular, it can provide the brain activation through measuring the blood oxygenation and blood volume in the cortex. Understanding and then improving the spatial and depth sensitivity of near infrared spectroscopy measurements to brain tissue are essential for designing experiments as well as interpreting research findings. In this study, we investigate the effect of applying two common light beam profiles including Uniform and Gaussian on the penetration depth of an LED-based near infrared spectroscopy. In this regard, two Gaussian profiles were produced by adjusting plano-convex and bi-convex lenses and the Uniform profile was provided by applying a flat lens. Two experiments were conducted in this study. First, a simulation experiment was carried out based on scanning the intra space of a liquid phantom by using static and pulsating absorbers to compare the penetration depth of the configurations applied on the LED-based near infrared spectroscopy with that of a laser-based near infrared spectroscopy. Second, to show the feasibility of the best proposed configuration applied, an in vivo experiment of stress assessment has been performed and its results have been compared with that results obtained by laser one. The results showed that the LED-based near infrared spectroscopy equipped with bi-convex lens provides a penetration depth and hence quality measurements of near infrared spectroscopy and its extracted heart rate variability signals as well as laser-based near infrared spectroscopy especially in the application of stress assessment.
Legitimising the Role of Corporate Boards and Corporate Social Responsibility on the Performance of Malaysian Listed Companies
Authors: Karim Sitara , Manab Norlida Abdul , Ismail Rusmawati Binti
Published: November 2019

The prime objective of this study is to investigate the legitimate role of corporate boards and corporate social responsibility on the performance of Malaysian listed companies during 2006–2017. Elements of corporate boards include board size, board independence and board diversity, whereas corporate social responsibility (CSR) dimensions constitute marketplace, environment, community and workplace. Both accounting-based (return on assets [ROA], return on equity [ROE]) and market-based (earnings per share [EPS]) performance measures have been employed for measuring performance. Pooled ordinary least squares method (OLS) and multiple regressions are used to estimate the dataset. Findings reveal larger board size and higher board independence positively affect firm performance and significantly legitimise the board role in firms. However, the presence of women on Malaysian corporate boards does not legitimate the performance due to their lower percentage on board, hence insignificantly affecting firm value. Additionally, out of four CSR dimensions, only marketplace is positively and significantly related to EPS and negatively and significantly related to ROA. Conversely, environment, community and workplace are insignificantly related to all performance measures, leaving firms in a questionable legitimate state. This study embraces support from agency theory, resource dependence theory, legitimacy theory and stakeholder theory. However, this research raises questionable insights for regulatory bodies and academicians in the form of corporate legitimacy.
Ballot Measures for Open Space Conservation: Economic and Institutional Processes in Cities
Authors: León-Moreta Agustín
Published: November 2019

This article examines referendums for open space conservation, focusing on an assessment of their likelihood in cities. It presents data on conservation referendums, over 15 years, based on the Trust for Public Land’s LandVote® database. Economic and institutional factors of influence are explored across cities, testing whether those factors explain differences in the likelihood of referendums and their passage. One finding is that the frequency of conservation referendums varies dramatically across American cities. Additional findings, from a pooled time-series analysis, are that economic and institutional contexts of cities affect the likelihood of conservation referendums. The likelihood of referendums and their passage is further tested across alternative models to evaluate the robustness of the findings. While its central contribution is to research on local referendums, the article connects to the political market framework to identify factors influencing the likelihood of open space referendums.
The Skills Behind the Spatial Practices
Authors: Lucas Leopold
Published: November 2019

This paper offers a theoretical investigation about the notion of “skills“ within a geographical approach. For spatial practices, the challenge is probably less about understanding what individuals do than their ways of doing. Building on an empirical survey about the tourists practices in Los Angeles, the paper first supports the idea that each spatial configuration is an issue for every individual, a gathering of spatial stakes that everyone must address. Then, it argues that the ways in which individuals deal with these stakes depend on their skills. Defining skills as “the mastery of techniques“, the article engages a critical discussion with French pragmatic sociology (Boltanski and Thévenot) and geography (Lussault) as well as upon works in anthropology (Ingold).
Evaluation of common indoor air pollutant reduction by a botanical indoor air biofilter system
Authors: Ibrahim Izdihar Zahirah , Chong Wen Tong , Yusoff Sumiani , Wang Chin-Tsan , Xiang Xianbo , Muzammil Wan Khairul
Published: November 2019

Indoor air pollutant issues have attracted various researchers to investigate alternative solutions to non-biofiltration systems, such as common air purifiers that are generally used in the market. Research has found that active botanical biofilter systems are efficient in filtering indoor air pollutants, as well as providing a refreshing environment to surroundings. The research presented here describes a developed prototype of a botanical indoor air biofilter (BIAB) and evaluates the performance of the BIAB system in reducing common indoor air pollutants. The system was assessed for its single-pass filtration across an aerosol containing particles with the diameter of 2.5 µm (PM2.5), 10 µm (PM10) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by burning aromatic cone incense. The system comprises three working sections: a fraction of horizontally grown plants with growth media as the botanical biofiltration section, an evaporative medium (an additional component from a commercial active botanical biofilter) and a mechanical ventilation system that supplies cleaned air to the surroundings. The BIAB system recorded the removal efficiencies of 54.5 ± 6.04% for PM2.5, 65.42 ± 9.27% for PM10 and 46 ± 4.02% for VOCs.
Consumer boycott amid conflict: The situated agency of political consumers in the occupied Palestinian territory
Authors: Bröckerhoff Aurélie , Qassoum Mufid
Published: November 2019

Participation is central to the success of political consumption movements. To date, consumer research has explored participation from the lens of the individual consumer activist. In this article we argue that such actor-centric approaches that equate individual motivation and willingness of potential consumer activists with likely participation are limited because they imply consumer freedom and agency irrespective of context. By exploring political consumption amid conflict, we illustrate how a particular setting frames the behaviours and decision-making of political consumers. Drawing on findings from a study of consumer boycott as part of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign in the West Bank (occupied Palestinian territory), we outline a set of market and societal barriers that frame the participation of potential boycotters. We show how these political, economic and sociocultural factors influence the range of possible actions for consumers and make participation more problematic, if not impossible. The findings of this study call for a need to re-evaluate how political consumption can be an oppositional or transformational practice, and support recent calls for a consideration of the roles of agency and power in consumption. To this effect, we propose the concept of ‘situated agency’ to analyse participation in political consumption that moves beyond actor-centric explanations. We hope such reconsiderations will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of participation in political consumption across different consumption contexts.
ResolvinD1 attenuates high-mobility group box 1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Yang Pingli , Chen Shan , Zhong Gang , Wang Yan , Kong Weijia , Wang Yanjun
Published: November 2019

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process is prevalent during the progression of tumors. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is no exception. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) was reported to have the effect of inducing EMT in malignancy. However, the impact of HMGB1-induced EMT in NPC is unclear. Resolvin D1 (RvD1) was reported to regress the progression of inflammation and apoptosis of phagocytes. The effect of RvD1 in the EMT is largely unknown. The current research explored the role of RvD1 on HMGB1-induced EMT in NPC. EMT markers were investigated in 10 NPC and 10 nasopharyngitis (NPG) patients using immunohistochemistry and Western blot. In vitro, expression of EMT markers and HMGB1 in CNE1 and CNE2 cells was assessed with immunohistochemical, Western blot, and confocal microscopy after treatment with recombinant human HMGB1 (rhHMGB1) or HMGB1 gene silencing or RvD1. The invasion and migration of NPC cells were detected by scratch test and transwell assay. Overexpression and gene silencing of lipoxin A4 receptor/formyl peptide receptor 2 (ALX/FPR2) and G protein-coupled receptor 32 (GPR32) in CNE2 cells confirmed the effect of RvD1 using Western blots. N-cadherin, vimentin, and HMGB1 were found up-regulated in NPC samples compared with NPG samples, while ZO-1 and E-cadherin were down-regulated in NPC tissues. RhHMGB1-induced EMT in CNE1 and CNE2 cells in a dose-dependent way. CNE2 cell lines treated with rhHMGB1 possessed greater invasion and migration ability, which was confirmed by gene silencing. RvD1 suppressed HMGB1-induced EMT in NPC cells via ALX/FPR2 and GPR32 receptors. These results showed that EMT was obvious in NPC. HMGB1 played a key role in inducing EMT. RvD1 inhibited HMGB1-induced EMT and might have potential application in the area of NPC treatment.

Impact statement

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma has a high incidence in China. Discussing the molecular mechanism of nasopharyngeal carcinoma is important because of high recurrent rate and low quality of life after treatment. HMGB1, as an important inflammatory factor, promotes the process in many cancers. But little is known about how HMGB1 affects the progress of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. In our research, we assessed the role of HMGB1 on metastasis and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. The result of study indicates HMGB1-induced EMT in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. Furthermore, we observed that RvD1, which plays an actively protective role in many diseases, controls the migration and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by inhibiting the HMGB1-induced EMT. RvD1 can be further studied as a protective factor for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Hand Motor Actions of Children With Cerebral Palsy Are Associated With Abnormal Sensorimotor Cortical Oscillations
Authors: Hoffman Rashelle M. , Wilson Tony W. , Kurz Max J.
Published: November 2019

Background. The neuroimaging literature on cerebral palsy (CP) has predominantly focused on identifying the structural aberrations (eg, fiber track integrity), with very few studies examining neural activity within the key networks that serve the production of hand movements. Objective. We aimed to start to fill this knowledge gap by using magnetoencephalographic brain imaging to quantify the temporal dynamics of the sensorimotor oscillations during a hand motor action. Methods: Children with CP (n = 12; MACS [Manual Abilities Classification System] levels I-III) and typically developing (TD) children (n = 26) performed an arrow-based version of the Eriksen flanker task where a button press was performed with either the second or third digit of the right hand depending on the arrow’s direction. Results: Overall, the children with CP were less accurate and had slower reaction times compared with the TD children. These behavioral differences were closely linked with aberrant sensorimotor cortical oscillations seen in the children with CP. Compared with the TD children, the children with CP had a weaker gamma (68-82 Hz) response during motor execution and a weaker post-movement beta rebound (PMBR; 14-26 Hz) response on movement termination. Moreover, we observed a significant correlation between the amplitude of the gamma and PMBR with reaction time, with weaker gamma and PMBR responses being linked with slower reaction times. Conclusions: Overall, these results suggest that aberrations in motor-related gamma and beta cortical oscillations are associated with the impaired hand motor actions seen in children with CP.
Cultural Proficiency: The Missing Link to Student Learning
Authors: Brion Corinne
Published: November 2019

This case illustrates why school leaders must be culturally proficient to serve all students and lead effectively. I discuss one case in Ohio that is representative of many other American schools. In particular, I examine the cultural challenges educational leaders must commonly face. This case encourages administrators to participate in meaningful conversations with stakeholders to solve complex issues. The hope is to better understand how school leaders in diverse contexts can lead and embrace different cultures, beliefs, and norms. I also pose questions designed to prepare educational leaders for similar situations where they must address issues of culture.
Numerical investigation about backflow of film cooling in static turbine blade leading edge
Authors: Gao Chao , Li Haiwang , Zhou Huimin , Ma Yiwen , You Ruquan
Published: November 2019

In this article, film cooling characteristics, especially the phenomenon of backflow for the straight turbine blade leading edge, are investigated. Shear stress transport k-ω turbulence model and structured grids are employed to assure the accuracy of the simulation, and the computational method is verified by the available experimental data. The influences of blow ratio, hole diameter, and the spacing between holes in each row are analyzed. The formation mechanism of backflow is discussed to prevent it from happening or relieve the degree of backflow, thereby to improve the cooling efficiency. The results showed that backflow can be avoided by adjusting the structure and the layout of film cooling holes. With increase in blow ratio, the cooling film becomes more obvious at first and then fades gradually for departing from the blade surface. The jet flow is influenced by the total pressure ratio between coolant cavity and surface of blade leading edge. Smaller film hole diameter and larger hole spacing makes it easier to eject coolant and form continuous film by slowing down the pressure in the cavity. Increasing ratio of hole spacing to hole diameter ( p/ d) can effectively prevent backflow, whereas larger p/ d also makes the film coverage area smaller.
Stakeholder-Focused Communication Strategy During Crisis: A Case Study Based on the Brussels Terror Attacks
Authors: Marynissen Hugo , Lauder Mike
Published: November 2019

Research in the field of risk and crisis communication indicates that large disasters not only cause distress among those affected by a crisis situation but also among the wider public. It is known that feelings of anxiety and dread are rooted in a heuristic interpretation of the situation, and that this leads to elevated stress levels in both the individual and the collective. From the literature on psychosocial behavior, we know that the lack of information, the shortness of guidance on what to do, and the absence of acknowledgement of any emotional distress, all have an immediate negative impact on the individual’s stress level. To tackle this phenomenon, this research looks to communication practices as a way of dealing with this issue during a crisis. The prevailing crisis communication literature suggests its prime aim is to safeguard the sender’s reputation thereby preventing the loss of trust. In our work, we inverted that logic by introducing a crisis communication strategy that focuses on restoring trust by diminishing victims’ and other stakeholders’ stress levels. Based on a case, the Brussels terror attacks (March, 2016), we proved the effectiveness of this approach and the diminishing effect on the population’s stress levels.
Determinants of infant feeding practices among mothers living with HIV attending prevention of mother to child transmission Clinic at Kiambu Level 4 hospital, Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Andare Naureen , Ochola Sophie , Chege Peter
Published: November 2019

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immune deficiency syndrome is global pandemic with around 150,000 children infected with HIV in 2015. In Kenya, it is estimated that 11,000 children who are under 15 years old were infected. Safe infant feeding practices are the major important determinants of the prevention of mother to child transmission. The decision to breastfeed or not is considered a very tough choice for mothers living with HIV. This study assessed the infant feeding practices and its determinants among mothers living with HIV with infants 0–12 months old.

Methods

This was a mixed methods cross-sectional study adopting qualitative and quantitative data collection procedures. A sample of 180 systematically selected mothers living with HIV with infants 0–12 months old attending prevention of mother to child transmission clinic participated in the study.

Results

Exclusive breastfeeding rate was 71.4%, mixed feeding (18.2%) and replacement feeding (10.4%). Complementary feeding with continued breastfeeding rate was 63.1%. Similarly, qualitative results showed that exclusive breastfeeding was the most preferred feeding method by mothers living with HIV. Age (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 0.19; (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.41, 0.85; p = 0.030) and infant feeding practice knowledge (AOR 0.20; 95% CI 0.06, 0.64; p = 0.007) were determinants of exclusive breastfeeding. Education AOR 0.17; 95% CI 0.03, 0.85; p = 0.002) and occupation (AOR 3.91; 95% CI 1.24, 12.32; p = 0.020) were determinants of complementary feeding with continued breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Exclusive breastfeeding is attainable in this population. However, poor infant feeding practice knowledge led to non-adherence to safe infant feeding practices such as exclusive breastfeeding. Socio-demographic factors such as age, education and occupation were established as determinants of infant feeding practices among mothers living with HIV. Ministry of Health should come up with strategies on infant feeding counseling that are aligned to a local context, to allow mothers to understand the importance of recommended infant feeding options for HIV-exposed infants.
Clinical and laboratory characteristics and follow up of 62 cases of ketotic hypoglycemia: a retrospective study
Authors: Kaplowitz Paul , Sekizkardes Hilal
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Idiopathic ketotic hypoglycemia (KH) is the most common cause of hypoglycemia in non-diabetic children ages 0.5–6 years old and typically occurs after a period of poor food intake. There are no large studies looking at the value of common laboratory testing in children presenting with KH or how often other diagnoses are made.

Objectives

To examine the clinical presentations and the value of laboratory testing done in a cohort of children clinically diagnosed with KH.

Methods

Billing records were searched from 2008 to 2017 for patients seen by the endocrine service for “hypoglycemia, not otherwise specified”. Charts were reviewed to determine age, sex, presenting symptoms and testing ordered at the time of the consult. Through chart reviews after the event and parent phone calls, diagnoses other than idiopathic KH were searched.

Results

Of 150 charts reviewed, 62 had sufficient information to make a clinical diagnosis of KH (32 males 30 females, mean age 2.9 years). Most had a history of gastrointestinal illness or prolonged fasting but 29% had no apparent precipitating event. Laboratory testing was quite variable and while low serum CO2 was seen in over half, no routine hormone testing, metabolic testing or supervised fasting resulted in a relevant diagnosis. We identified 4 out of 62 (6.5%) with relevant diagnoses which explained KH, including one child with failure to thrive found to have growth hormone (GH) deficiency and 3 by genetic testing, including one case of GSD type 9α, but all had atypical presentations.

Conclusions

In the typical setting of a healthy 0.5–6 year-old child with an uncomplicated episode of KH following poor food intake and a normal exam including growth, hormonal and metabolic testing can safely be deferred. However, frequent recurrences and atypical features should prompt further investigation.

Trial registration

Not needed for a retrospective chart review study.
Incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting is not increased by combination of low concentration sevoflurane and propofol compared with propofol alone in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery
Authors: Uchinami Yuka , Takikawa Satoshi , Takashima Fumiki , Maeda Yosuke , Nasu Satoki , Ito Ayumi , Saito Tatushi
Published: November 2019

Background

The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is higher in patients receiving volatile anesthetics than those receiving total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with propofol. However, it is unclear whether its incidence is increased when a low concentration of sevoflurane is used in combination with propofol.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, controlled trial enrolled women undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to receive general anesthesia either with propofol alone (group P) or with 0.8% sevoflurane and propofol (group SP,n = 36, each group) for maintenance of anesthesia. The incidence of PONV and the number of patients who required antiemetics were compared.

Results

There were no differences in the incidence of PONV and the number of patients who required antiemetics between the P and SP groups.

Conclusions

A combination of 0.8% sevoflurane and propofol to maintain anesthesia does not increase the incidence of PONV compared with TIVA with propofol.

Trial registration

UMIN-CTRUMIN000023647, registered 14 August 2016.
Long-Acting Growth Hormone Preparations – Current Status and Future Considerations
Authors: Miller Bradley S , Velazquez Eric , Yuen Kevin C J
Published: November 2019

Context

Long-acting GH (LAGH) preparations are currently being developed in an attempt to improve adherence. The profile of GH action following administration of LAGH raises practical questions about clinical monitoring and long-term safety and efficacy of these new therapeutic agents.

Methods

Recent literature and meeting proceedings regarding LAGH preparations are reviewed.

Results

Multiple LAGH preparations are currently at various stages of development, allowing for decreased GH injection frequency from daily to weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Following administration of LAGH, the serum peak and trough GH and IGF-I levels vary depending upon the mechanism used to prolong GH action. Randomized, controlled clinical trials of some LAGH preparations have reported non-inferiority compared with daily recombinant human GH (rhGH) for improved growth velocity and body composition in children and adults with GH deficiency (GHD), respectively. No significant LAGH-related adverse events have been reported during short-term therapy.

Conclusion

Multiple LAGH preparations are proceeding through clinical development with some showing promising evidence of short-term clinical efficacy and safety in children and adults with GHD. The relationship of transient elevations of GH and IGF-I following administration of LAGH to efficacy and safety remain to be elucidated. For LAGH to replace daily rhGH in the treatment of individuals with GHD, a number of practical questions need to be addressed including methods of dose adjustment, timing of monitoring of IGF-I, safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. Long-term surveillance of efficacy and safety of LAGH preparations will be needed to answer these clinically relevant questions.
Diagnosis of Primary Aldosteronism by Seated Saline Suppression Test—Variability Between Immunoassay and HPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Thuzar Moe , Young Karen , Ahmed Ashraf H , Ward Greg , Wolley Martin , Guo Zeng , Gordon Richard D , McWhinney Brett C , Ungerer Jacobus P , Stowasser Michael
Published: November 2019

Background

In primary aldosteronism (PA), excessive, autonomous secretion of aldosterone is not suppressed by salt loading or fludrocortisone. For seated saline suppression testing (SSST), the recommended diagnostic cutoff 4-hour plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) measured by high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS is 162 pmol/L. Most diagnostic laboratories, however, use immunoassays to measure PAC. The cutoff for SSST using immunoassay is not known. We hypothesized that the cutoff is different between the assays.

Methods

We analyzed 80 of the 87 SSST tests that were performed during our recent study defining the HPLC-MS/MS cutoff. PA was confirmed in 65 by positive fludrocortisone suppression testing (FST) and/or lateralization on adrenal venous sampling and excluded in 15 by negative FST. PAC was measured by a chemiluminescence immunoassay (PACIA) in the SSST samples using the DiaSorin Liaison XL analyzer, and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed to identify the PACIA cutoff.

Results

ROC revealed good performance (area under the curve = 0.893; P < .001) of 4-hour postsaline PACIA for diagnosis of PA and an optimal diagnostic cutoff of 171 pmol/L, with sensitivity and specificity of 95.4% and 80.0%, respectively. A higher cutoff of 217 pmol/L improved specificity (86.7%) with lower sensitivity (86.2%). PACIA measurements strongly correlated with PAC measured by HPLC-MS (r = 0.94, P < .001).

Conclusions

A higher diagnostic cutoff for SSST should be employed when PAC is measured by immunoassay rather than HPLC-MS/MS. The results suggest that (i) PA can be excluded if 4-hour PACIA is less than 171 pmol/L, and (ii) PA is highly likely if the PACIA is greater than 217 pmol/L by chemiluminescence immunoassay. A gray zone exists between the cutoffs of 171 and 217 pmol/L, likely reflecting a lower specificity of immunoassay.
Bone Mineral Density across the Lifespan in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Halper-Stromberg Eitan , Gallo Tyler , Champakanath Anagha , Taki Iman , Rewers Marian , Snell-Bergeon Janet , Frohnert Brigitte I , Shah Viral N
Published: November 2019

Context

Fracture risk in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is higher than their peers without diabetes.

Objective

To compare bone mineral density (BMD) across the lifespan in individuals with T1D and age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Subjects (5–71 years) with T1D and matched controls from ongoing research studies at Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes.

Patients or other participants

Participants with lumbar spine BMD by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were divided into 2 groups: children ≤20 years and adults >20 years.

Intervention

None.

Main outcome measures

Comparison of BMD by diabetes status across age groups and sex using a linear least squares model adjusted for age and body mass index (body mass index (BMI) for adults; and BMI z-score in children).

Results

Lumbar spine BMD from 194 patients with T1D and 156 controls were analyzed. There was no difference in age- and BMI-adjusted lumbar spine BMD between patients with T1D and controls: among male children (least squares mean ± standard error of the mean [LSM ± SEM]; 0.80 ± 0.01 vs 0.80 ± 0.02 g/cm2, P = .98) or adults (1.01 ± 0.03 vs 1.01 ± 0.03 g/cm2, P = .95), and female children (0.78 ± 0.02 vs 0.81 ± 0.02 g/cm2, P = .23) or adults (0.98 ± 0.02 vs 1.01 ± 0.02 g/cm2, P = .19). Lumbar spine (0.98 ± 0.02 vs 1.04 ± 0.02 g/cm2, P = .05), femoral neck (0.71 ± 0.02 vs 0.79 ± 0.02 g/cm2, P = .003), and total hip (0.84 ± 0.02 vs 0.91 ± 0.02, P = .005) BMD was lower among postmenopausal women with T1D than postmenopausal women without diabetes.

Conclusion

Across age groups, lumbar spine BMD was similar in patients with T1D compared with age- and sex-matched participants without diabetes, except postmenopausal females with T1D had lower lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip BMD.
The Macrophage Activation Marker Soluble CD163 is Longitudinally Associated With Insulin Sensitivity and β-cell Function
Authors: Semnani-Azad Zhila , Connelly Philip W , Johnston Luke W , Retnakaran Ravi , Harris Stewart B , Zinman Bernard , Hanley Anthony J
Published: November 2019

Context

Chronic inflammation arising from adipose tissue macrophage (ATM) activation may be central in type 2 diabetes etiology. Our objective was to assess the longitudinal associations of soluble CD163 (sCD163), a novel biomarker of ATM activation, with insulin sensitivity, β-cell function, and dysglycemia in high-risk subjects.

Methods

Adults at risk for type 2 diabetes in the Prospective Metabolism and Islet Cell Evaluation (PROMISE) study had 3 assessments over 6 years (n = 408). Levels of sCD163 were measured using fasting serum. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by HOMA2-%S and the Matsuda index (ISI). β-cell function was determined by insulinogenic index (IGI) over HOMA-IR and insulin secretion-sensitivity index-2 (ISSI-2). Incident dysglycemia was defined as the onset of impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or type 2 diabetes. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) evaluated longitudinal associations of sCD163 with insulin sensitivity, β-cell function, and incident dysglycemia adjusting for demographic and lifestyle covariates. Areas under receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AROC) tested whether sCD163 improved dysglycemia prediction in a clinical model.

Results

Longitudinal analyses showed significant inverse associations between sCD163 and insulin sensitivity (% difference per standard deviation increase of sCD163 for HOMA2-%S (β = −7.01; 95% CI, −12.26 to −1.44) and ISI (β = −7.60; 95% CI, −11.09 to −3.97) and β-cell function (ISSI-2 (β = −4.67; 95 %CI, −8.59 to −0.58) and IGI/HOMA-IR (β = −8.75; 95% CI, −15.42 to −1.56)). Increased sCD163 was associated with greater risk for incident dysglycemia (odds ratio = 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02-1.06; P < 0.001). Adding sCD163 data to a model with clinical variables improved prediction of incident dysglycemia (AROC=0.6731 vs 0.638; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

sCD163 was longitudinally associated with core disorders that precede the onset of type 2 diabetes.