bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient L-band Zirconia Yttria Aluminum Erbium co-doped fiber amplifier with 1480nm pumping
Authors: Almukhtar Aya A. , Al-Azzawi Alabbas A. , Reddy P. H. , Das S. , Dhar A. , Paul M. C. , Ahmad H. , Harun S. W.
Published: August 2019

The optical amplification performance of the proposed Zirconia Yttria Aluminum Erbium co-doped fiber (Zr-EDF) was compared for two different pumping schemes; 1480 and 980[Formula: see text]nm. An efficient [Formula: see text]-band amplifier was achieved using 3[Formula: see text]m length of Zr-EDF while 1480[Formula: see text]nm pumping is found to provide higher attainable gain and better noise figure as compared to 980[Formula: see text]nm pumping. At a pumping wavelength of 1480[Formula: see text]nm and an input signal power of [Formula: see text]10[Formula: see text]dBm, the proposed amplifier provides a relatively flat-gain of about 13.3[Formula: see text]and 17.3[Formula: see text]dB with single-pass and double-pass configuration, respectively, where the gain variation was less than 1[Formula: see text]dB within a wavelength region of 1560–1600[Formula: see text]nm. The noise figures of the proposed Zr-EDFA were maintained below 8 and 14.5[Formula: see text]dB for single-pass and double-pass arrangement, respectively, within the flat-gain region. Compared to the conventional amplifier configured with silica based erbium-doped fiber amplifier, the proposed Zr-EDF-based amplifier achieves a higher and flatter gain and lower noise figure at [Formula: see text]-band region even though it uses a shorter length of gain medium.
Q-switched all-fiber laser based on MoSe2 films with chemical vapor deposition method
Authors: Zhang Xin , Yao Yanli , Wang Shubin , Ma Guoli , Lei Ming , Liu Wenjun
Published: August 2019

In this work, MoSe2 film is synthesized by the chemical vapor deposition method. Saturable absorber (SA) is assembled with the tapered fiber and MoSe2 films. Q-switched operation is achieved with the MoSe2-based SA. The experimental result reveals that the MoSe2-based SA has excellent saturable absorption characteristic with 23.41% modulation depth. When the pump power is greater than 289.2[Formula: see text]mW, Q-switched all-fiber lasing action is demonstrated. The repetition rate of the Q-switched pulses varies from 185.6 to 252.8[Formula: see text]kHz. The shortest pulse duration is 801.9[Formula: see text]ns, and the largest output energy is 69.3[Formula: see text]nJ. Results indicate that MoSe2 films can provide new opportunities for large-modulation-depth optical modulators in ultrafast photonics.
INFLUENCE OF FOOT INSOLE ON THE GAIT PERFORMANCE IN SUBJECTS WITH FLAT FOOT DISORDER
Authors: KARIMI M. T. , TAHMASEBI R. B. , SATVATI B. , FATOYE F.
Published: August 2019

Flat foot is the most common foot disorder that influences the alignment of the lower limb structure. It is controversial whether the use of foot insole influences kinetic and kinematic of the leg or not. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of foot insole on the gait performance in subjects with flat foot disorder.

A group of flat foot subject was recruited into this study (the number of subjects was 15). The motion of the leg joints was determined using the Qualysis motion analysis system. Moreover, the force applied on the lower limb was recorded by a Kistler force plate. The range of motion of the lower limb joints, the moments applied on the lower limb joints and force transmitted through the leg were the parameters used in this study. The difference between these parameters during walking with and without insole was evaluated using the paired [Formula: see text]-test. Significant value was set at [Formula: see text].

There was no significant difference between the range of motion of ankle joint while walking with and without insole. However, the medial directed force applied on the leg decreased significantly [Formula: see text]. The use of foot insole did not influence the moments transmitted through the hip and knee joints. The walking speed of the subjects improved while walking with foot insole.

Use of foot insole influenced the magnitude of the force applied on the leg and the adductor moment of ankle joint due to its influence on foot alignment. As the walking speed of the improved subjects follows the use of insole, it can be concluded that it may have a positive effects on the performance of flat foot subjects.
The Co-Evolution of IT, Knowledge, and Agility in Micro and Small Enterprises
Authors: Chan Yolande E. , Denford James S. , Wang Junjun Jane
Published: August 2019

Small firms facing today’s turbulent business environment often fail early in their life if they do not develop the necessary capabilities to survive. The main goal of this study is to investigate how IT and knowledge co-evolve, influencing a firm’s agility, within the context of micro and small enterprises (MSEs). Applying the resource-based view of the firm and dynamic capabilities, a multiple case study of eight firms was used to explore links among business, IT and knowledge strategies, resources, and capabilities. Links among IT and knowledge capabilities and firm agility were also explored. The results demonstrate that an MSE’s business strategy shapes, and is also shaped by, the firm’s IT and knowledge strategies; and that both IT and knowledge capabilities shape, and are shaped by, the firm’s agility, coevolving with it. By highlighting the important antecedents of small firm agility and presenting crucial links among agility, IT capabilities, and knowledge capabilities in MSEs, we encourage practitioners to think carefully about their IT and knowledge strategies and to rethink their use of firm resources and capabilities to develop agility in the face of environmental uncertainty and change.
Assessing the Awareness and Usage of Reference Management Software (RMS) Among Researchers of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Ghana
Authors: Bugyei Kwabena Asiedu , Kavi Raphael Kwame , Obeng-Koranteng Grace
Published: August 2019

The study seeks to ascertain the levels of awareness and usage of reference management software (RMS) among researchers of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana. The purpose and benefits as well as challenges associated with the use of these tools were also discussed. Descriptive survey methodology was employed for this study. A web-based questionnaire consisting of both multiple-choice and open-ended questions was used to collect data from 110 scientists in 13 research institutes of the CSIR, Ghana. Results show that overwhelming majority of scientists (80%) are aware and know about RMS. However, the adoption and usage of these tools are low. The percentage of non-usage was higher among the older scientists (22% for over 51 years) as against the younger researchers (9% for 31 to 40 years). Overall, 33.6% do not use RMS at all, and scientists occasionally used RMS. Mendeley was the most popularly used software among respondents. Results also show that most of the respondents got to know about RMS through training workshops and seminars. Most of the respondents had not received any training and for those who had attended a training workshop or seminar, majority of them noted that it was very easy to use. The main purpose of using these tools was for research work and literature review. Major benefits of using RMS packages are automatic generation of references list, electronic creation of bibliographies and changing of referencing style by a click of a button. Challenges associated with the use of these tools were slow internet connection, lack of training, and technical support. The study recommended that CSIR should make the effort to acquire these tools. Scientists should also be given the necessary training and technical support in order to effectively use these softwares.
Polar columnar assemblies of subphthalocyanines
Authors: Mayoral Maria J. , Torres Tomás , González-Rodríguez David
Published: August 2019

In this small review article, we provide an overview of the different self-assembled systems and materials created so far by rationally organizing fluorosubphthalocyanines in a non-centrosymmetric fashion, which allows access to novel polarly ordered liquid crystalline materials that can be aligned in the presence of electric fields and that exhibit permanent or switchable ([Formula: see text] ferroelectric) polarization.
Functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles with 2,7,12,17-tetraphenylporphycene
Authors: Martínez-Edo Gabriel , LLinàs Maria C. , Anguera Gonzalo , Gibert Albert , Sánchez-García David
Published: August 2019

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles decorated with 2,7,12,17-tetraphenylporphycene have been prepared by reaction of aminated nanoparticles with 9-(glutaric [Formula: see text]-succinimidylesteramide)-2,7,12,17-tetraphenylporphycene. The as-prepared nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, DLS and TEM.
Electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical characterization of Cu(II) and Mn(III) tetrabutano- and tetrabenzoporphyrins containing sterically hindered meso -(2,6-difluorophenyl) substituents in nonaqueous media
Authors: Wang Liping , Fang Yuanyuan , Xu Weijie , Ou Zhongping , Kadish Karl M.
Published: August 2019

Four tetrabutano and tetrabenzoporphyrins containing sterically hindered meso-(2,6-difluorophenyl) substituents and copper(II) or manganese(III) central metal ions were synthesized and characterized as to their electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical properties in nonaqueous media. The copper(II) derivatives exhibit the expected two one-electron reductions to give [Formula: see text]-anion radicals and dianions in CH2Cl2. Electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical data suggest that a Cu(II) phlorin anion is generated from the doubly reduced Cu(II) butanoporphyrin and it is this species which undergoes the third reduction in pyridine. The first one-electron reduction of the Mn(III) porphyrins is metal-centered to give a Mn(II) compound, while the second and third reductions are macrocycle-centered to give Mn(II) porphyrin [Formula: see text]-anion radicals and dianions in both CH2Cl2 and pyridine. A Mn(II) phlorin anion is also generated from the Mn(II) dianion on the spectroelectrochemical timescale under the given solution conditions. The [Formula: see text],[Formula: see text]-butano and benzo groups have a significant effect on the measured redox potentials. Steric hindrance of the meso-(2,6-difluorophenyl) substituents also has an effect on the potential separation between the first two oxidations of the benzoporphyrins.
Future Prospects for Particle Therapy Accelerators
Authors: Myers S. , Degiovanni A. , Farr J. B.
Published: August 2019

Particle therapy is the expanding radiotherapy treatment option of choice for cancer. Its cost, however, is currently hindering its worldwide expansion. Also, the ideal application of particle therapy is restricted by a series of unsolved technical challenges. Both the cost and technical limitations are directly traceable to dependence on legacy accelerators and their associated treatment possibilities. This chapter is written to address these needs. Firstly, a technical overview is presented of photon and particle therapy for cancer tumours. Secondly, the underlying limitations of the existing legacy systems are identified, especially those related to accelerators, and suggestions are made for current and future developments to address these shortcomings. The legacy systems referred to here are of the slow scanning variety using large, circular accelerators.

This paper also attempts to make a scientific comparison of the various types of accelerators currently used or being developed for particle therapy.

The following procedure is pursued to perform a comparison between various types of accelerators:

(1)The parameters which are pertinent to particle therapy accelerators (‘specified parameters’) are identified from clinical efficiency and overall cost considerations.(2)The range and values of ‘specified parameters’ associated with each type of particle therapy accelerator are identified.(3)A comparison is made on the best match between the various types of accelerators for each of the ‘specified parameters,’ i.e., the best in class accelerator, when compared to each criterion.(4)Based on this match, an overall conclusion is made on the type of accelerator which best fits the needs for particle therapy.
A Cost-Effective Rapid-Cycling Synchrotron
Authors: Nagaitsev Sergei , Lebedev Valeri
Published: August 2019

The present Fermilab proton Booster is an early example of a rapid-cycling synchrotron (RCS). Built in 1960s, it features a design in which the combined-function dipole magnets serve as vacuum chambers. Such a design is quite cost-effective, and it does not have the limitations associated with the eddy currents in a metallic vacuum chamber. However, an important drawback of that design is a high impedance, as seen by a beam, because of the magnet laminations. More recent RCS designs (e.g. J-PARC) employ large and complex ceramic vacuum chambers in order to mitigate the eddy-current effects and to shield the beam from the magnet laminations. Such a design, albeit very successful, is quite costly because it requires large-bore magnets and large-bore RF cavities. In this paper, we consider an RCS concept with a thin-wall metallic vacuum chamber as a compromise between the chamber-less Fermilab Booster design and the large-bore design with ceramic chambers.
Prospects for Electric Dipole Moment Measurement Using Electrostatic Accelerators
Authors: Talman Richard
Published: August 2019

Electrostatic accelerators have played a glorious role in physics, especially for low energy atomic and nuclear physics and electron microscopy. But circular accelerators have depended almost exclusively on the far greater bending force possible with static magnetic, rather than electric, fields. There is a potential exception to this magnetic bending monopoly for experimental high energy elementary particle physics — it is the possibility of measuring the electric dipole moments (EDMs) of charged elementary particles, such as proton, deuteron, or electron, using an electrostatic storage ring. Any such non-zero EDM would demonstrate violation of both parity (P) and time-reversal (T) invariance. One way of understanding the preponderance of matter over anti-matter in the present-day universe pre-supposes the existence of violations of P and T substantially greater than are allowed by the “standard model” of elementary particle physics. This provides the leading motivation for measuring EDMs. Currently, only upper limits are known for these EDMs. The very same smallness that makes it important to determine them makes their measurement difficult. Accepting as obvious the particle physics motivation, this paper concentrates on the accelerator physics of the (not very) high energy electrostatic accelerators needed for EDM measurements. Developments already completed are emphasized. Impressive advances have been made in the diagnostic tools, spin control and polarimetry that will make EDM measurement possible. Ring design for minimizing spin decoherence and limiting systematic EDM errors is presented. There have, however, been worrisome indications from low energy rings, concerning beam current limitations. A prototype ring design is proposed for investigating and addressing this concern.
A Case of IgG4-Related Bilateral Palpebral Conjunctivitis
Authors: Nagai Toshiya , Yunoki Tatsuya , Hayashi Atsushi
Published: August 2019

The most common sites of IgG4-related ocular disease are the lacrimal glands, infraorbital nerve, and extraocular muscles. Other ocular adnexal sites are relatively rare. We report a rare case of an 83-year-old man who developed palpebral conjunctivitis following bilateral hypertrophic ectropion of the eyelid. Tissue immunostaining revealed many IgG4-positive plasma cells (67 IgG4/74 IgG cells/high-power field). The serum IgG4 level was 76.9 mg/dL, which was within the normal range. The diagnosis was probable IgG4-related disease. The possibility of IgG4-related disease should be considered in a patient presenting with refractory conjunctivitis and hyperemia or hypertrophy of the lower eyelid.
Le personnage-prostitué dans quatre romans contemporains
Authors: Nankeu Bernard Bienvenu
Published: August 2019

À l’aune de la poétique du personnage, notamment en tant que socle sur lequel repose la narration pour gagner en vraisemblance en traitant des questions  qui  relèvent  de  la  condition  humaine,  cet  article  est  une  lecture  de L’Immeuble Yacoubian (Alaa El Awany), Place des fêtes (Sami Tchak), Ève de ses décombres (Ananda Dévi) et La chair du maître (Dany Laferrière), sous l’angle des usages de la prostitution que ces romans représentent ou figurent. Il apparaît alors que  l’on  a  affaire  à  des  personnages-thèmes  tels  que  la  concubine,  la  libertine, l’absentéiste, la fille de rue et le beach boy, tous imaginés dans la perspective de mettre en lumière des états d’esprit et des états de société.
Internal Versus External Electrical Cardioversion of Atrial Arrhythmia in Patients With Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator
Authors: Lüker Jakob , Kuhr Kathrin , Sultan Arian , Nölker Georg , Omran Hazem , Willems Stephan , Andrié René , Schrickel Jan W. , Winter Stefan , Vollmann Dirk , Tilz Roland R. , Jobs Alexander , Heeger Christian-H. , Metzner Andreas , Meyer Sven , Mischke Karl , Napp Andreas , Fahrig Andreas , Steinhauser Susanne , Brachmann Johannes , Baldus Stephan , Mahajan Rajiv , Sanders Prashanthan , Steven Daniel
Published: August 2019

Background:

Atrial arrhythmias are common in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). External shocks and internal cardioversion through commanded ICD shock for electrical cardioversion are used for rhythm-control. However, there is a paucity of data on efficacy of external versus internal cardioversion and on the risk of lead and device malfunction. We hypothesized that external cardioversion is noninferior to internal cardioversion for safety, and superior for successful restoration of sinus rhythm.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with ICD undergoing elective cardioversion for atrial arrhythmias at 13 centers were randomized in 1:1 fashion to either internal or external cardioversion. The primary safety end point was a composite of surrogate events of lead or device malfunction. Conversion of atrial arrhythmia to sinus rhythm was the primary efficacy end point. Myocardial damage was studied by measuring troponin release in both groups.

Results:

N=230 patients were randomized. Shock efficacy was 93% in the external cardioversion group and 65% in the internal cardioversion group (
P
<0.001). Clinically relevant adverse events caused by external or internal cardioversion were not observed. Three cases of pre-existing silent lead malfunction were unmasked by internal shock, resulting in lead failure. Troponin release did not differ between groups.

Conclusions:

This is the first randomized trial on external vs internal cardioversion in patients with ICDs. External cardioversion was superior for the restoration of sinus rhythm. The unmasking of silent lead malfunction in the internal cardioversion group suggests that an internal shock attempt may be reasonable in selected ICD patients presenting for electrical cardioversion.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT03247738.
A Stairway to Heaven? Jacob’s Dream in Genesis 28:10-22
Authors: van Wolde Ellen
Published: August 2019

The question implied in the title of this article “A stairway to heaven?” in reference to Genesis 28:10-22 can be answered negatively. The word סלם does not designate a ladder or a stairway, since it has no steps. It is not even set up to heaven. It is, first of all, the gradient access road of a city, envisioned here as a descent road built from the top downwards, leading from the city of gods to the earth.
Validation of Animal Models for Simulation Training in Pediatric Laryngotracheal Reconstruction
Authors: Okhovat Saleh , Milner Thomas D. , Clement William A. , Wynne David M. , Kunanandam Thushitha
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

To assess and compare the face (FV) and content validity (CV) of three ex vivo animal models for simulation training in pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR).

Methods:

Feasibility of performing LTR was assessed on the head and neck of three different animals (lamb/suckling-pig/rabbit) and laryngeal dimensions and qualitative observations were recorded. A 19-item five-point Likert scale questionnaire was completed for each model to assess FV and CV. Data was prospectively collected and analyzed using descriptive and nonparametric statistics.

Results:

All three models were suitable for LTR simulation with laryngeal dimensions corresponding to 0-2 years (rabbit), 5-10 (pig) and >10 years (lamb model). Five trainees and five expert pediatric otolaryngologists performed LTR on each model. The overall median FV score was 5 for the lamb model (IQR 4-5), 3 for the rabbit (IQR 2-3), and 4 for the pig (IQR 4-4). The overall median CV score was 5 for the lamb (IQR 5-5), 2 for the rabbit (IQR 2-3), and 4 for the pig model (IQR 4-4). Comparison of the models demonstrated the lamb to be favored as the most realistic and practical model for simulation training in pediatric LTR, with both the lamb and the porcine model attaining validation thresholds.

Conclusion:

Our study is the first comparative validation assessment of animal models for use in pediatric LTR simulation and it supports the use of ex vivo lamb and porcine models for use in LTR surgical skills training. The lamb model was the favored simulation model while the rabbit was considered inferior for simulation training in pediatric LTR.

Level of Evidence:

3b
Wish to Die: Suicide and Its Link to Euthanasia
Authors: Costa-Maia Inês , Marina Sílvia , Ricou Miguel
Published: August 2019

This article analyzes suicidal behavior and how its inherent processes of death ideation can overlap with those seeking euthanasia. We present a literature review of three main events in suicide (suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide) in different populations and evaluate implications for health-care practice and risk assessment taking into account the context of euthanasia. We ponder upon the motives behind suicide and its link with wish to die requests to hasten death. We discuss the possibility of the reversal of a wish to die as well as a potential process of differentiating between individuals who would maintain their wish and benefit from termination of life and others who would later change their minds.
Adding Acoustical to Visual Movement Patterns to Retest Whether Imitation Is Goal- or Pattern-Directed
Authors: Ramezanzade Hesam
Published: August 2019

This study compared two different motor skill modeling presentations (with and without goal display) in visual and audio-visual conditions for learning a complex skill (basketball jump shot) to evaluate the importance of (a) audio information and (b) goal observation in motor performance kinematics. Specifically, we sought to understand whether the simultaneous presentation of auditory and visual patterns could usefully direct the learner’s attention from goal to pattern stimuli. I selected 40 students ( Mage = 20.47 years) who had no prior experience with the basketball jump shot or free throw and randomly assigned them into four groups: Pattern/Visual, Pattern/Audio-Visual, Pattern-Goal/Visual, and Pattern-Goal/Audio-Visual. Participants in the pattern-only groups watched only the skilled motor pattern, while those in the pattern-goal groups watched both the pattern and its outcome. Participants in the visual-only groups simply watched the visual pattern, while those in audio-visual groups saw and heard the pattern; we sonified the angular velocity of the skilled performer’s elbow joint. Participants then performed in two conditions with and without balls. On all dependent variables, the participants’ performance following the audio-visual presentations was better than when following the visual-only presentations. In addition, the participants’ performance in pattern-only groups was better than in pattern-goal groups, but this improved pattern-only performance was far less extensive in the audio-visual than in the visual-only group. In sum, complex motor skill imitation was enhanced by an audio pattern of elbow angular velocity in support of generalist theories of imitation learning.
Beginning With Ganesha: The Founding and Early History of the Society for Technical Communication in India
Authors: Matheson Breeanne
Published: August 2019

Scholars have given much weight to the question of professional legitimacy in the field of TPC, but much of that focus has been given to practitioners in Euro-Western contexts. However, practitioners in India have also worked to strengthen their own legitimacy in a variety of ways, including by harnessing existing structural mechanisms. This article addresses the founding of the Society for Technical Communication India chapter in 1999 and its subsequent organizational impact as a mechanism toward improving the legitimacy of the field in India. It covers a historical analysis of the founding years of the Society for Technical Communication India chapter and discusses ways that founding members and early participants worked to build their own legitimacy.
Outcomes More Than 2 Years After Meniscal Repair for Radial/Flap Tears of the Posterior Lateral Meniscus Combined With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Tsujii Akira , Yonetani Yasukazu , Kinugasa Kazutaka , Matsuo Tomohiko , Yoneda Kenji , Ohori Tomoki , Hamada Masayuki
Published: August 2019

Background:

Meniscal function after repair of radial/flap tears of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus (LM) with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) has not been comprehensively investigated.

Purpose:

To evaluate not only the clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients with repair of radial/flap tears of the posterior LM with ACLR but also the healing status of the repaired meniscus and changes of chondral status with second-look arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

From January 2008 to April 2016, 41 patients of a consecutive series of 505 primary anatomic ACLR cases had a concomitant radial/flap tear of the posterior horn of the LM and underwent side-to-side repair with an inside-out or all-inside technique. All patients were followed for >2 years, evaluated clinically and radiologically (radiograph and magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), and compared with a control group without any concomitant injuries that underwent ACLR. Of the 41 patients, 30 were assessed by second-look arthroscopy 2 years postoperatively.

Results:

The mean follow-up times of the study and control groups were 3.4 and 3.9 years, respectively. The study group showed no significant differences in clinical findings, lateral joint space narrowing on radiograph, and coronal extrusion on MRI as compared with the control group, whereas sagittal extrusion on MRI progressed significantly in the study group (1.2 ± 1.5 mm vs 0.32 ± 1.0 mm, P < .001). Eighteen patients (60%) obtained complete healing; 9 (30%) showed partial healing; and 3 (10%) failed to heal on second-look arthroscopy. Changes of chondral status in the femoral condyle showed no significant difference between the groups ( P = .29). However, chondral status of the lateral tibial plateau worsened significantly in the study group ( P = .0011).

Conclusion:

The clinical and radiographic outcomes after repair of radial/flap tears of the posterior horn of the LM as combined with anatomic ACLR were successful and comparable with those after isolated ACLR without any other injuries at a mean postoperative follow-up of 3.4 years, except for sagittal extrusion on MRI. Chondral lesions of the lateral tibial plateau deteriorated regardless of meniscal healing at 2 years postoperatively. Surgeons should keep in mind that chondral injuries might progress over the midterm.
Apatinib for Patients With Sorafenib-Refractory Advanced Hepatitis B Virus Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Zhang Yingqiang , Fan Wenzhe , Wang Yu , Huang Guihua , Li Jiaping
Published: August 2019

More than half of the patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) do not respond to primary treatment with sorafenib. Currently, there are no universally accepted methods for further treatment. This pilot study was performed to assess the safety and effectiveness of apatinib as an optional treatment for patients with sorafenib-refractory HCC. Between January 2015 and May 2017, 43 consecutive patients with sorafenib-refractory advanced HCC who received apatinib were reviewed. The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were assessed using modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors. The time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) were determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. Toxicities associated with apatinib were assessed. All patients had hepatitis B virus (HBV) related HCC. The mean follow-up time was 11 months (range: 3-37) and the mean duration of apatinib was 7.6 months (range: 1-32). After treatment, 11 patients had partial response (PR), 18 had stable disease (SD), and 14 had progressive disease (PD); accordingly, the ORR and DCR were 25.6% and 67.4%, respectively. The median TTP and OS were 3 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9-4.1) and 8 months (95% CI: 6.9-9.0), respectively. The median OS times for PR, SD, and PD were 19 months (95% CI: 15.8-22.2), 8 months (95% CI: 7.3-8.7), and 4 months (95% CI: 3.1-4.9), respectively ( P < .001). The median TTP for PR, SD, and PD was 14 months (95% CI: 11.9-16.1), 3 months (95% CI: 2.3-3.7) and 1 month, respectively ( P < .001). No patients experienced toxicity-related death. The most common toxicities were weight loss, hand–foot skin reaction, and hypertension. Twelve adverse events of grade 3 or higher were observed. Based on our findings, apatinib is a promising treatment for patients with sorafenib-refractory advanced HBV-related HCC.
Management of Hospital In The Home (HITH) Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Marsh Nicole , Larsen Emily , Tapp Sam , Sommerville Margarette , Mihala Gabor , Rickard Claire M.
Published: August 2019

Worldwide, there has been a shift in health care delivery, with an increasing emphasis on avoiding hospital admissions and providing treatment such as intravenous antibiotics for patients at home, using peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs). However, there is inadequate data to demonstrate if rates of PICC failure are similar for hospital inpatients, currently understood to be between 7% and 36%, than those cared for at home. The objective of this study was to identify prevalence, dwell time, and complications associated with PICCs in the home setting. This single-center, retrospective cohort study of adults treated by the “Hospital in the Home” (HITH) program in Queensland, was conducted between June 1, 2017 and June 15, 2018. Clinical data were collected for patient and PICC characteristics. Variables were described as frequencies and proportions, means and standard deviations, or medians and interquartile ranges. In total, 304 patients treated by HITH during this timeframe, and 164 (54%) patients with 181 PICCs were included in this study. These patients were predominately male (n = 105, 64%), with a mean age of 54 years. The most common reason for admission was a wound infection and/or bone infection (n = 120, 33%). Most PICCs were single lumen (n = 120; 67%), inserted in the basilic vein (n = 137; 80%) by nurses (n = 122; 67%). Peripherally inserted central catheter failure occurred in 10% (n = 19); the most common complications were dislodgement (n = 9; 5%) and thrombosis (n = 4; 2%). There were no confirmed catheter-related blood stream infections. Peripherally inserted central catheter failure rates are similar between hospitalized inpatients and those cared for at home.
Exploring Qualitative Methods of Historical Ecology and Their Links With Qualitative Research
Authors: Santana-Cordero Aarón Moisés , Szabó Péter
Published: August 2019

A review of the historical ecology literature led us to the realization that there was an important gap in terms of recognized methodological procedures and techniques. Contributions along these lines are sparse. However, some publications (book chapters and papers), some of them case studies, contain methodological material of great interest. Therefore, all these materials needed to be gathered together and put in a historical ecology methodological context. With this in mind, this article focuses on the methods employed to date in historical ecology when working with qualitative and graphic materials. In addition, it incorporates an exploration of the links between these methods and those used in general in qualitative research. Historical ecology requires source criticism methods (a source critical approach which offers guidelines for both source and source reliability assessment) and time line–based methods for landscape change. Some of the techniques used in historical ecology, but not originate from it, are presented (historical maps, photointerpretation, repeat photography, and oral history). The methodological links between historical ecology and qualitative research are then explored, and, finally, a method for text analysis (thematic networks) is presented.
The prognostic value of pulmonary artery compliance in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Zorzi Maria F. , Cancelli Emmanuelle , Rusca Marco , Kirsch Matthias , Yerly Patrick , Liaudet Lucas
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the pathophysiological role and the prognostic significance of pulmonary artery compliance (CPA), a measure of right ventricular pulsatile afterload, in cardiogenic shock. We retrospectively included 91 consecutive patients with cardiogenic shock due to primary left ventricular failure, monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter within the first 24 h. CPA was calculated as the ratio of stroke volume to pulmonary artery pulse pressure, and we determined whether CPA predicted mortality and whether it performed better than other pulmonary hemodynamic variables. The overall in‐hospital mortality in our cohort was 27%. Survivors and nonsurvivors had comparable left ventricular ejection fraction, systolic, diastolic and mean pulmonary artery pressure, transpulmonary gradient, diastolic pressure gradient, and pulmonary vascular resistance at 24 h. In contrast, CPA was the only pulmonary artery variable significantly associated with mortality in univariate and multivariate analyses. Mortality increased from 4.5% at the highest quartile of CPA (3.6–6.5 mL/mmHg) to 43.5% at the lowest quartile (0.7–1.7 mL/mmHg). In 64 patients with a PAC inserted immediately upon admission, we calculated the trend of CPA between admission and 24 h. This trend was positive in survivors (+0.8 ± 1.3 ml/mmHg) but negative in nonsurvivors (−0.1 ± 1.0 mL/mmHg). The lower CPA in nonsurvivors was associated with more severe right ventricular systolic dysfunction. In conclusion, a reduced compliance of the pulmonary artery promotes right ventricular dysfunction and is independently associated with mortality in cardiogenic shock. Future studies should evaluate the impact on pulmonary arterial compliance and right ventricular afterload of therapies used in cardiogenic shock.
Related and unrelated donor transplantation for β-thalassemia major: results of an international survey
Authors: Li Chunfu , Mathews Vikram , Kim Soyoung , George Biju , Hebert Kyle , Jiang Hua , Li Changgang , Zhu Yiping , Keesler Daniel A. , Boelens Jaap Jan , Dvorak Christopher C. , Agarwal Rajni , Auletta Jeffery J. , Goyal Rakesh K. , Hanna Rabi , Kasow Kimberly , Shenoy Shalini , Smith Angela R. , Walters Mark C. , Eapen Mary
Published: August 2019

We studied 1110 patients with β-thalassemia major aged ≤25 years who received transplants with grafts from HLA-matched related (n = 677; 61%), HLA-mismatched related (n = 78; 7%), HLA-matched unrelated (n = 252; 23%), and HLA-mismatched unrelated (n = 103; 9%) donors between 2000 and 2016. Ninety percent of transplants were performed in the last decade. Eight-five percent of patients received ≥20 transfusions and 88% were inadequately chelated. All patients received myeloablative-conditioning regimen. Overall and event-free survival were highest for patients aged ≤6 years and after HLA-matched related and HLA-matched unrelated donor transplantation. The 5-year probabilities of overall survival for patients aged ≤6 years, 7 to 15 years, and 16 to 25 years, adjusted for donor type and conditioning regimen were 90%, 84%, and 63%, respectively (P < .001). The corresponding probabilities for event-free survival were 86%, 80%, and 63% (P < .001). Overall and event-free survival did not differ between HLA-matched related and HLA-matched unrelated donor transplantation (89% vs 87% and 86% vs 82%, respectively). Corresponding probabilities after mismatched related and mismatched unrelated donor transplantation were 73% vs 83% and 70% vs 78%. In conclusion, if transplantation is considered as a treatment option it should be offered early (age ≤6 years). An HLA-matched unrelated donor is a suitable alternative if an HLA-matched relative is not available.
A Biology Core Concept Instrument (BCCI) to Teach and Assess Student Conceptual Understanding
Authors: Cary Tawnya L. , Wienhold Caroline J. , Branchaw Janet
Published: August 2019

Instruments for teaching and assessing student understanding of the five core concepts in biology from Vision and Change are needed. We developed four Biology Core ­Concept Instruments (BCCIs) that teach and assess students’ ability to describe a concept in their own words, identify concepts represented in biological phenomena, and make connections between concepts. The BCCI includes a narrative, followed by a series of 10 true-false/identify (TF/I) and three open-ended questions. The TF/I questions are aligned with Cary and Branchaw’s Conceptual Elements Framework and were iteratively developed with feedback from biology experts and student performance and feedback obtained during think-aloud interviews. A component scoring system was developed to discriminate between a student’s ability to apply and identify each core concept from his or her ability to make connections between concepts. We field-tested the BCCIs ( n = 152–191) with students in a first-year course focused on learning the five core concepts in biology and collected evidence of interrater reliability (α = 0.70) and item validity. With component scoring, we identified examples in which students were able to identify concepts singularly, but not make connections between concepts, or were better able to apply concepts to one biological phenomenon than another. Identifying these nuanced differences in learning can guide instruction to improve students’ conceptual understanding.
Honesty via Choice-Matching
Authors: Cvitanić Jakša , Prelec Dražen , Riley Blake , Tereick Benjamin
Published: August 2019

We introduce choice-matching, a class of mechanisms for eliciting honest responses to a multiple choice question (MCQ), as might appear in a market research study, opinion poll, or economics experiment. Under choice-matching, respondents are compensated through an auxiliary task, e.g., a personal consumption choice or a forecast. Their compensation depends both on their performance on the auxiliary task, and on the performance of those respondents who matched their response to the MCQ. We give conditions for such mechanisms to be strictly truth-inducing, focusing on a special case in which the auxiliary task is to predict the answers of other respondents. (JEL C78, C83, D81, D82, D83)
The Model Selection Curse
Authors: Eliaz Kfir , Spiegler Ran
Published: August 2019

A statistician takes an action on behalf of an agent, based on the agent’s self-reported personal data and a sample involving other people. The action that he takes is an estimated function of the agent’s report. The estimation procedure involves model selection. We ask the following question: Is truth-telling optimal for the agent given the statistician’s procedure? We analyze this question in the context of a simple example that highlights the role of model selection. We suggest that our simple exercise may have implications for the broader issue of human interaction with machine learning algorithms. (JEL C52)
NMDA receptor C-terminal signaling in development, plasticity, and disease
Authors: Hardingham Giles
Published: August 2019

The NMDA subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptor is a sophisticated integrator and transducer of information. NMDAR-mediated signals control diverse processes across the life course, including synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity, as well as contribute to excitotoxic processes in neurological disorders. At the basic biophysical level, the NMDAR is a coincidence detector, requiring the co-presence of agonist, co-agonist, and membrane depolarization in order to open. However, the NMDAR is not merely a conduit for ions to flow through; it is linked on the cytoplasmic side to a large network of signaling and scaffolding proteins, primarily via the C-terminal domain of NMDAR GluN2 subunits. These physical interactions help to organize the signaling cascades downstream of NMDAR activation. Notably, the NMDAR does not come in a single form: the subunit composition of the NMDAR, particularly the GluN2 subunit subtype (GluN2A–D), influences the biophysical properties of the channel. Moreover, a growing number of studies have illuminated the extent to which GluN2 C-terminal interactions vary according to GluN2 subtype and how this impacts on the processes that NMDAR activity controls. We will review recent advances, controversies, and outstanding questions in this active area of research.
"If you catch my drift...": ability to infer implied meaning is distinct from vocabulary and grammar skills
Authors: Wilson Alexander C. , Bishop Dorothy V.M.
Published: August 2019

Background: Some individuals with autism find it challenging to use and understand language in conversation, despite having good abilities in core aspects of language such as grammar and vocabulary. This suggests that pragmatic skills (such as understanding implied meanings in conversation) are separable from core language skills. However, it has been surprisingly difficult to demonstrate this dissociation in the general population. We propose that this may be because prior studies have used tasks in which different aspects of language are confounded.

Methods: The present study used novel language tasks and factor analysis to test whether pragmatic understanding of implied meaning, as part of a broader domain involving social understanding, is separable from core language skills. 120 adult participants were recruited online to complete a 7-task battery, including a test assessing comprehension of conversational implicature.

Results: In confirmatory analysis of a preregistered model, we compared whether the data showed better fit to a two-factor structure (including a “social understanding” and “core language” factor) or a simpler one-factor structure (comprising a general factor). The two-factor model showed significantly better fit.

Conclusions: This study supports the view that interpreting context-dependent conversational meaning is partially distinct from core language skills. This has implications for understanding the pragmatic language impairments reported in autism.
Information Technologies for Business Process Management
Authors: Петрова Елена , Petrova Elena , Родюков А. , Rodyukov A.
Published: August 2019

The problems of automation of business processes of enterprises, peculiarities of Workflow systems, review of modern solutions presented in the market in this field are considered.
Puzzle—More Logic Puzzle Apps Solved by Mathematical Programming
Authors: Hartmann Sönke
Published: August 2019

This paper considers six logic puzzles (i.e., single-player games) that are available as smartphone apps—namely Starbattle, V3ck, Monodot, Knight Moves, Circuit Scramble, and Binary Sudoku. For each puzzle, an integer linear programming formulation is presented (a MathProg implementation is available as well). The purpose is to provide interesting examples and exercises for teaching mathematical programming in operations research and management science lectures. The puzzles lead to a broad variety of exercises, ranging from graph models to specific constraint types such as logical and inequality constraints.
The Real Effects of Bank Capital Requirements
Authors: Fraisse Henri , Lé Mathias , Thesmar David
Published: August 2019

We measure the impact of bank capital requirements on corporate borrowing, investment, and employment using loan-level data. The Basel II regulatory framework makes capital requirements vary across both banks and firms, which allows us to control for time-varying firm-level risk and bank-level credit supply shocks. We find that a 1 percentage point increase in capital requirements reduces lending by 2.3%–4.5%. Firms can attenuate this reduction by substituting borrowing across banks, but only to a limited extent. The resulting reduction in borrowing capacity affects significantly both investment and employment: for firms whose effective capital requirements increase by 1 percentage point, fixed assets are reduced by 1.1%, capital expenditures by 2.7%, and employment by 0.8%.

This paper was accepted by Tomasz Piskorski, finance.
Mental illness among NHS health care workers: a survey
Authors: Sherring Simon
Published: August 2019

The literature suggests that mental illness among UK health care staff is common. This study reports health care workers' knowledge and experience of mental illness. Medical staff, administration staff and other staff members employed in four NHS Trusts (n=2073) responded to a questionnaire survey. A proportion of health care workers in the NHS reported having personal (colleagues, family and self) experience of mental illness. Some health care workers held causal explanations of mental illness that are not evidence based. This study found that almost half of health care workers reported experiencing a mental illness, which could have significant implications for service delivery. Some health care workers held causal explanations of mental illness that were not evidence based; for example, some respondents reported that demonic possession or possession by evil spirits was a very good explanation for mental illness.
γ-Aminobutyric acid production by selected lactic acid bacteria isolate of an Indonesian indigenous fermented buffalo milk (dadih) origin
Authors: Harnentis Harnentis , Nurmiati Nurmiati , Marlida Yetti , Adzitey Frederick , Huda Nurul
Published: August 2019

Aim: This study aimed at optimizing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) of an Indonesian indigenous fermented buffalo milk (dadih) origin. This study utilized LAB previously cultured from dadih that has the ability to produce GABA.

Materials and Methods: The study started with the identification of selected LAB by 16S rRNA, followed by optimization of GABA production by culture conditions using different initial pH, temperature, glutamate concentration, incubation time, carbon, and nitrogen sources. 16S rRNA polymerase chain reaction and analysis by phylogenetic were used to identify Lactobacillus plantarum (coded as N5) responsible for the production of GABA.

Results: GABA production by high-performance liquid chromatography was highest at pH of 5.5, temperature of 36°C, glutamate concentration of 500 mM, and incubation time of 84 h. Peptone and glucose served as the nitrogen and carbon sources, respectively, whereas GABA was produced at optimum fermentation condition of 211.169 mM.

Conclusion: Production of GABA by L. plantarum N5 was influenced by initial pH of 5.5, glutamic acid concentration, nitrogen source, glucose as carbon source, and incubation temperature and time.

Keywords: fermented buffalo milk, Indonesian indigenous product, lactic acid bacteria, γ-aminobutyric acid.