bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traffic Scene Depth Analysis Based on Depthwise Separable Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yuan Jianzhong , Zhou Wujie , Lv Sijia , Chen Yuzhen
Published: June 2019

In order to obtain the distances between the surrounding objects and the vehicle in the traffic scene in front of the vehicle, a monocular visual depth estimation method based on the depthwise separable convolutional neural network is proposed in this study. First, features containing shallow depth information were extracted from the RGB images using the convolution layers and maximum pooling layers. Subsampling operations were also performed on these images. Subsequently, features containing advanced depth information were extracted using a block based on an ensemble of convolution layers and a block based on depth separable convolution layers. The output from all different blocks is combined afterwards. Finally, transposed convolution layers were used for upsampling the feature maps to the same size with the original RGB image. During the upsampling process, skip connections were used to merge the features containing shallow depth information that was obtained from the convolution operation through the depthwise separable convolution layers. The depthwise separable convolution layers can provide more accurate depth information features for estimating the monocular visual depth. At the same time, they require reduced computational cost and fewer parameter numbers while providing a similar level (or slightly better) computing performance. Integrating multiple simple convolutions into a block not only increases the overall depth of the neural network but also enables a more accurate extraction of the advanced features in the neural network. Combining the output from multiple blocks can prevent the loss of features containing important depth information. The testing results show that the depthwise separable convolutional neural network provides a superior performance than the other monocular visual depth estimation methods. Therefore, applying depthwise separable convolution layers in the neural network is a more effective and accurate approach for estimating the visual depth.
Comprehensive Liquid Profiling of Circulating Tumor DNA and Protein Biomarkers in Long-Term Follow-Up Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cai Zhixiong , Chen Geng , Zeng Yongyi , Dong Xiuqing , Li Zhenli , Huang Yanbing , Xin Fuli , Qiu Liman , Xu Haipo , Zhang Wei , Su Xiaoping , Liu Xiaolong , Liu Jingfeng
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) provides a novel approach for detecting tumor burden and predicting clinical outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we performed a thorough evaluation of HCC circulating genetic features and further fully integrated them to build a robust strategy for HCC monitoring and prognostic outcome assessment.

Experimental Design:

We performed target sequencing and low-coverage whole-genome sequencing on plasma samples collected from 34 long-term follow-up patients with HCC to capture tumor somatic SNVs and CNVs, respectively. Clinical information was also obtained to evaluate the prognostic performance of ctDNA comparing with clinically applied protein biomarkers.

Results:

All plasma samples before surgery showed somatic genetic variations resembling corresponding tumor tissues. During follow-up, SNVs and CNVs dynamically changed correlating to patients' tumor burden. We integrated the comprehensive ctDNA mutation profiles to provide a robust strategy to accurately assess patients' tumor burden with high consistence comparing with imaging results. This strategy could discover tumor occurrence in advance of imaging for an average of 4.6 months, and showed superior performance than serum biomarkers AFP, AFP-L3%, and Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP). Furthermore, our strategy could precisely detect minimal residual disease (MRD) in advance and predict patients' prognostic outcomes for both relapse-free survival (P = 0.001) and overall survival (P = 0.001); further combining ctDNA with DCP could increase the sensitivity for MRD detection.

Conclusions:

We demonstrated that plasma CNV and SNV levels dynamically correlated with patients' tumor burden in HCC. Our strategy of comprehensive mutation profile integration could accurately and better evaluate patients' prognostic risk and detect tumor occurrence in advance than traditional strategies.
Role of Chemotherapy, VEGFR Inhibitors, and mTOR Inhibitors in Advanced Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumors (PEComas)
Authors: Sanfilippo Roberta , Jones Robin L. , Blay Jean-Yves , Le Cesne Axel , Provenzano Salvatore , Antoniou Georgios , Mir Olivier , Fucà Giovanni , Fumagalli Elena , Bertulli Rossella , Stacchiotti Silvia , Brahmi Mehdi , Grosso Federica , Dufresne Armelle , Hindi Nadia , Sbaraglia Marta , Gronchi Alessandro , Collini Paola , Dei Tos Angelo P. , Casali Paolo G.
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Perivascular epitheliod cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms for which the role of systemic treatments is not established as there are no published prospective clinical trials or sufficiently large retrospective case series. The aim of this study is to clarify the activity of conventional chemotherapy and biological agents in advanced/metastatic PEComas.

Experimental Design:

This was an observational, retrospective, international study that included patients with advanced/metastatic PEComa treated with systemic therapy at 5 European sarcoma reference centers and within the Italian Rare Cancer Network. Survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox hazards regression models.

Results:

A total of 53 patients were included. Cytotoxic chemotherapy regimens were active only in a small proportion of PEComas. Gemcitabine-based regimens [objective response rate (ORR): 20%, median progression-free survival (PFS): 3.4 months] seemed to have the same activity of anthracycline-based regimens (ORR: 13%, median PFS: 3.2 months). Antiangiogenic agents resulted in disease stabilization in some patients, with a number having density changes/tissue response on imaging, with an ORR of 8.3% and a median PFS of 5.4 months. mTOR inhibitors were the most active agents, with an ORR of 41% and a median PFS of 9 months.

Conclusions:

Our study provides data for the selection of systemic therapy in patients with advanced/metastatic PEComa: mTOR inhibitors are the most active agents. Antiangiogenics and chemotherapy with gemcitabine-based regimens or anthracycline-based regimens are options in further line, but with a lower response rate and PFS.
Interferon Signaling Is Diminished with Age and Is Associated with Immune Checkpoint Blockade Efficacy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Sceneay Jaclyn , Goreczny Gregory J. , Wilson Kristin , Morrow Sara , DeCristo Molly J. , Ubellacker Jessalyn M. , Qin Yuanbo , Laszewski Tyler , Stover Daniel G. , Barrera Victor , Hutchinson John N. , Freedman Rachel A. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , McAllister Sandra S.
Published: June 2019

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, which targets T cell–inhibitory receptors, has revolutionized cancer treatment. Among the breast cancer subtypes, evaluation of ICB has been of greatest interest in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) due to its immunogenicity, as evidenced by the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and elevated PD-L1 expression relative to other subtypes. TNBC incidence is equally distributed across the age spectrum, affecting 10% to 15% of women in all age groups. Here we report that increased immune dysfunction with age limits ICB efficacy in aged TNBC-bearing mice. The tumor microenvironment in both aged mice and patients with TNBC shows decreased IFN signaling and antigen presentation, suggesting failed innate immune activation with age. Triggering innate immune priming with a STING agonist restored response to ICB in aged mice. Our data implicate age-related immune dysfunction as a mechanism of ICB resistance in mice and suggest potential prognostic utility of assessing IFN-related genes in patients with TNBC receiving ICB therapy.

Significance:

These data demonstrate for the first time that age determines the T cell–inflamed phenotype in TNBC and affects response to ICB in mice. Evaluating IFN-related genes from tumor genomic data may aid identification of patients for whom combination therapy including an IFN pathway activator with ICB may be required.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1143
Intravitreal Ranibizumab Injection for the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Aldebasi Tariq , Guma Muataz A. , Bashir Rabia , Al Saif Saif , Altwaijri Waleed A. , Al Bekairy Abdulkareem M.
Published: June 2019

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of a single injection of 0.3 mg intravitreal ranibizumab for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods:We conducted this retrospective case series study at King Abdul Aziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Seventy-four eyes of 37 preterm infants with ROP stage III with plus disease in zone I, posterior zone II, and aggressive posterior ROP received a single injection of 0.3 mg intravitreal ranibizumab. The favorable outcome measure was complete regression of the disease with normal vascularization of the retina of those infants. Results: The gestational age of the 37 included cases was in the range of 23–28 weeks and their body weight at birth was between 510 and 1,235 g except for one case with 2,550 g under oxygen therapy <7days with severe hypoglycemia. All eyes showed a favorable response in terms of regression of plus disease from the first day after treatment, followed by regression of stage III retinopathy. All patients developed complete vascularization over variable periods of time. Conclusion: One injection of 0.3 mg intravitreal ranibizumab is effective in treating ROP stage III mainly in zones I and II.
Use of Antidepressants and Risk of Incident Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Trajkova Slavica , d’Errico Angelo , Soffietti Riccardo , Sacerdote Carlotta , Ricceri Fulvio
Published: June 2019

Background: Both depression and use of antidepressants have been reported to be risk factors for stroke, but results from the literature are still not conclusive regarding the risk attributable to antidepressants rather than to the underlying disease. Objective: To estimate the risk of incident stroke associated with use of antidepressants, a meta-analysis was performed. Methods: PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, ProQuest, Scopus, and bibliographies of articles were searched up to September 2018. The final meta-analysis included 31 observational studies. STROBE statement-checklist and GRADE guidelines were used for quality assessment. Results: The random-effects meta-analysis on the association between use of any antidepressant and risk of any stroke resulted in meta-risk ratio (RR) of 1.41 (95% CI 1.13–1.69, I2 = 93, 7%). The pooled estimate for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) resulted in a meta-RR of 1.41 (95% CI 1.13–1.69, I2 = 94, 5%) and for tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) of 1.08 (95% CI 0.93–1.22, I2 = 0%). SSRI users displayed a higher risk of ischemic (1.57, 95% CI 1.06–2.09, I2 = 96.4%) than hemorrhagic stroke (1.34, 95% CI 1.15–1.53, I2 = 72.9%). Meta-RRs were lower for TCA, although with smaller heterogeneity (ischemic 1.22, 95% CI 0.97–1.46; I2 = 0%; hemorrhagic: 1.00, 95% CI 0.83–1.18, I2 = 0%). Restricting to studies on depressed individuals, both SSRI and TCA remained associated with an increased risk of any stroke type (meta-RR for SSRI: 1.27, 95% CI 1.11–1.43, I2 = 76.6%; meta-RR for TCA: 1.21 (95% CI 1.02–1.40, I2 = 47, 3%). Conclusions: Despite the high heterogeneity, these results demonstrate that even after adjusting for depression, use of antidepressants retains an independent increased risk of stroke.
A Clinical Trial to Verify the Efficiency of the LC-1000 Exfoliative Cell Analyzer as a New Method of Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Nakamura Masaru , Ueda Masatugu , Iwata Takashi , Kiguchi Kazushige , Mikami Yoshiki , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Aoki Daisuke
Published: June 2019

Objective: The exfoliative cell analyzer, LC-1000 (Sysmex Corporation, Japan), is a medical device that presents the cell proliferation index and 23 research parameters as indicators of cellular proliferative potential. The objective was to evaluate the clinical usability of qualitative assessment by LC-1000 compared with cytology, the human papillomavirus (HPV) test, and histology as gold standard. Study Design: Women that visited 3 sites between July 2015 and March 2017 were registered. The primary endpoint in this study was the comparison between LC-1000 measurement and HPV test for sensitivity and specificity for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2+ (CIN2+). A tree model algorithm was newly constructed by a statistical method and its relationship with histological results was evaluated. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of LC-1000 were 78.3 and 74.1%, while those of the HPV test were 94.7 and 85.4%, respectively. A tree model comprising five categories was constructed. The proportion of advanced lesions was higher with the change in the rank classification results from 1 to 5. The positive predictive values of CIN2+ in the categories 4 and 5 were high. Despite the small number of subjects, cancer was undetected in categories 1 and 2. In addition, the comparison with follow-up results in 19 women assessed as CIN1 showed that the rate of progression in the categories 3–5 was 50% (7/14); progression in the categories 1 and 2 was 0% (0/5). Conclusions: LC-1000 may be useful for cervical cancer screening as an index to qualitatively evaluate CIN and cancer based on the changes in characteristics of cells.
Crohn’s Disease Patients with Depression Exhibit Alterations in Monocyte/Macrophage Phenotype and Increased Proinflammatory Cytokine Production
Authors: Tang Yu , Zhao Li , Lei Na , Chen Pingrun , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2019

Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) is strongly associated with depression, but the mechanisms underlying this relationship are not fully understood. Recently, neuroimmunological studies have demonstrated that proinflammatory monocytes/macrophages play a key role in the pathogenesis of depression. The present study investigates monocyte/macrophage phenotypes and plasma cytokine levels in CD. Methods: Eligible CD patients were divided into nondepressed and depressed groups according to Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for depression (HADS-D). The Harvey-Bradshaw index (HBI), the Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s disease (SES-CD), and the Global Histological Disease Activity Score (GHAS) were compared between the 2 groups. Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify the expression of CD68, inducible nitic oxide synthase (iNOS), and CD163 in colon mucosa. Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay was used to detect plasma levels of M1 macrophage-secreted cytokines (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, ­interleukin 6 [IL-6], IL-1β) and M2 cytokines (transforming growth factor [TGF]-β1, IL-10, C-C motif chemokine ligand 22, [CCL22]). Flow cytometry was utilized to determine peripheral blood monocyte subsets. Results: Depressed CD patients (n = 91) presented higher HBI, ­SES-CD, GHAS than the nondepressed patients (n = 42). Intermediate (CD14++CD16+) and nonclassical monocytes (CD14+CD16++) percentages, integrated optical density (IOD) of iNOS+ cells representing M1 macrophages, and plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β were increased while ­classical monocyte (CD14++CD16–) percentage, IOD of CD163+ cells representing M2 macrophages, and IL-10 plasma levels were decreased in depressed versus nondepressed CD patients. Plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β correlated with HADS-D scores. Conclusion: Monocytes subpopulation disequilibrium toward intermediate and nonclassic phenotypes and macrophage polarization toward M1 phenotype with increased proinflammatory cytokine release are more likely to be found in CD patients with depressive symptoms.
Furosemide Dose Changes Associated with Furosemide/Tolvaptan Combination Therapy in Patients with Cirrhosis
Authors: Uojima Haruki , Hidaka Hisashi , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Wada Naohisa , Kubota Kousuke , Nakazawa Takahide , Shibuya Akitaka , Sung Ji Hyun , Kako Makoto , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: June 2019

Background: Few data have demonstrated that the combination therapy comprising a natriuretic drug and an aquaretic drug has improved renal function compared with the conventional diuretic therapy of only a natriuretic drug in patients with cirrhosis. Objective: This study aimed to assess the influence to the renal function by furosemide dose reductions after administration of tolvaptan in cirrhotic ascites patients. Methods: A 2-center, open-label, randomized study with a 24-week treatment period was conducted in Japan. Patients who met the study’s criteria were randomized to a conventional therapy group or a combination therapy group in a 1:1 ratio. The combination therapy group received tolvaptan and reduced furosemide doses compared with those received before the study enrollment. The conventional therapy group continued with the original dosage regimens. We assessed the change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline through the duration of the study in the 2 groups. Results: Twenty-nine patients were randomized to receive either the combination therapy group (n = 14) or the conventional therapy group (n= 15). The change in the furosemide dose from baseline was –35.2 ± 10.1 mg in the combination therapy group. After 24 weeks of treatment, significantly greater improvement in eGFR was observed in the combination therapy group (2.4 ± 0.4 mL/min 1.73 m2) compared with those in the conventional therapy group (–5.1 ± 1.2 mL/min 1.73 m2; p = 0.013). Conclusion: A combination therapy of tolvaptan and furosemide enabled furosemide dose reductions. Systematic reductions of the furosemide doses can lead to the improvement of renal function.
Testing of Helicobacter pylori by Endoscopic Biopsy: The Clinical Dilemma of Suppressive Conditions
Authors: Knoop Richard F. , Petzold Golo , Amanzada Ahmad , Bremer Sebastian C.B. , Gress Thomas M. , Ellenrieder Volker , Neesse Albrecht , Kunsch Steffen
Published: June 2019

Background and Aims: Testing for Helicobacter pylori is frequently conducted during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Suppressive conditions such as the intake of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), preceded antibiotic treatment or recent upper gastrointestinal bleeding impair H. pylori test quality. The aim of our study was to evaluate the frequency and pattern of H. pylori suppressive conditions in a large patient collective undergoing elective EGD in a German university hospital. Methods: The trial was performed as a single-center study. Only elective EGD from inpatients and outpatients were included. Prior to endoscopy, H. pylori suppressive conditions were collected using a standardized questionnaire. If H. pylori testing was indicated according to the guidelines, always both histology and helicobacter urease test were performed in analogy to the Sydney classification. Results: One thousand six hundred and thirty-one patients were included (median 61 years, 36.0% outpatients, 64.0% inpatients). Overall, 76.5% of patients were under H. pylori suppressive conditions. The main suppressive condition was the intake of PPIs (70.7%). In 819 (50.2%) of all included cases, H. pylori testing was performed. The following were the results: 17.3% (142) had a positive H. pylori testing and 82.7% (677) were negative. Of those with negative result, 70.0% were tested under suppressive conditions. Conclusion: Guidelines recommend H. pylori testing under non-suppressive conditions. However, this does not always meet the clinical practice. Our data show that de facto, many patients undergoing elective EGD are tested for H. pylori under suppressive conditions coming along with a higher risk of potentially false negative results. Particularly, concerning this issue, further research is needed to improve and clarify everyday clinical practice.
ОСНОВНІ ШЛЯХИ СТАНОВЛЕННЯ І РОЗВИТКУ СІМЕЙНОЇ МЕДИЦИНИ В УКРАЇНІ ЯК ОСНОВА РЕОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ ПЕРВИННОЇ МЕДИКО-САНІТАРНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ НАСЕЛЕННЮ
Authors: Yakovleva O. G.
Published: June 2019

У статті проаналізовано поширеність професії лікаря загальної лікарської практики – сімейної медици­ни, яка є унікальною спеціальністю, орієнтованою на вирішення проблем пацієнта як особистості в контексті його сімейних і соціальних відносин. Вона вимагає широкого кола знань і вмінь, що включають як навички організації та управління діяльністю, так і консультування пацієнтів із різними проблемами, в тому числі й соціальними.
ЯК ДИСТАНЦІЙНІ КОНСУЛЬТАЦІЇ КАРДІОЛОГІВ РЯТУЮТЬ ЖИТТЯ
Authors: Kosa T. V.
Published: June 2019

У статті проаналізовано як дистанційні консультації рятують життя пацієнтів із хворобами серця. Серцево-судинні захворювання – основна причина смертності в Україні, тому увага до власної серцево-судинної системи вкрай важлива.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЙНО-ПЕДАГОГІЧНІ УМОВИ СТАТЕВОГО ВИХОВАННЯ В УКРАЇНСЬКИХ ЗАКЛАДАХ ОСВІТИ
Authors: Popovych N. V.
Published: June 2019

У статті проаналізовано засади формування світогляду підлітків  щодо культури статевого виховання та організаційно-педагогічні умови в українських закладах освіти.
ОЦІНКА ПАРАМЕТРІВ ПСИХОЕМОЦІЙНОГО СТАНУ МЕДИЧНИХ СЕСТЕР ОПЕРАЦІЙНОГО БЛОКУ
Authors: Kaminska J. V. , Malanchuk L. M.
Published: June 2019

Статтю присвячено актуальній проблемі професійного становлення операційної медичної сестри родо­помічного закладу ІІІ рівня допомоги та ролі психоемоційного стану в цьому процесі.
15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-Prostaglandin J
2
Reinforces the Anti-Inflammatory Capacity of Endothelial Cells With a Genetically Determined NO Deficit
Authors: Urban Ivelina , Turinsky Martin , Gehrmann Sviatlana , Morgenstern Jakob , Brune Maik , Milewski Moritz R. , Wagner Andreas H. , Rumig Cordula , Fleming Thomas , Leuschner Florian , Gleissner Christian A. , Hecker Markus
Published: June 2019

Rationale:

Fluid shear stress (FSS) maintains NOS-3 (endothelial NO synthase) expression. Homozygosity for the C variant of the T-786C single-nucleotide polymorphism of the
NOS3
gene, which solely exists in humans, renders the gene less sensitive to FSS, resulting in a reduced endothelial cell (EC) capacity to generate NO. Decreased bioavailability of NO in the arterial vessel wall facilitates atherosclerosis. Consequently, individuals homozygous for the C variant have an increased risk for coronary heart disease (CHD).

Objective:

At least 2 compensatory mechanisms seem to minimize the deleterious effects of this single-nucleotide polymorphism in affected individuals, one of which is characterized herein.

Methods and Results:

Human genotyped umbilical vein ECs and THP-1 monocytes were used to investigate the role of 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J
2
(15d-PGJ
2
) in vitro. Its concentration in plasma samples from genotyped patients with CHD and age-matched CHD-free controls was determined using quantitative ultraperformance LC-MS/MS. Exposure of human ECs to FSS effectively reduced monocyte transmigration particularly through monolayers of CC-genotype ECs. Primarily in CC-genotype ECs, FSS elicited a marked rise in COX (cyclooxygenase)-2 and L-PGDS (lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase) expression, which appeared to be NO sensitive, and provoked a significant release of 15d-PGJ
2
over baseline. Exogenous 15d-PGJ
2
significantly reduced monocyte transmigration and exerted a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect on the transmigrated monocytes by downregulating, for example, transcription of the IL (interleukin)-1β gene (
IL1B
). Reporter gene analyses verified that this effect is due to binding of Nrf2 (nuclear factor [erythroid-derived 2]–like 2) to 2 AREs (antioxidant response elements) in the proximal
IL1B
promoter. In patients with CHD, 15d-PGJ
2
plasma levels were significantly upregulated compared with age-matched CHD-free controls, suggesting that this powerful anti-inflammatory prostanoid is part of an endogenous defence mechanism to counteract CHD.

Conclusions:

Despite a reduced capacity to form NO, CC-genotype ECs maintain a robust anti-inflammatory phenotype through an enhanced FSS-dependent release of 15d-PGJ
2
.
Densely Connected Graph Convolutional Networks for Graph-to-Sequence Learning
Authors: Guo Zhijiang , Zhang Yan , Teng Zhiyang , Lu Wei
Published: June 2019

We focus on graph-to-sequence learning, which can be framed as transducing graph structures to sequences for text generation. To capture structural information associated with graphs, we investigate the problem of encoding graphs using graph convolutional networks (GCNs). Unlike various existing approaches where shallow architectures were used for capturing local structural information only, we introduce a dense connection strategy, proposing a novel Densely Connected Graph Convolutional Network (DCGCN). Such a deep architecture is able to integrate both local and non-local features to learn a better structural representation of a graph. Our model outperforms the state-of-the-art neural models significantly on AMR-to-text generation and syntax-based neural machine translation.
What Happened to Soviet Security Studies?: An Essay on the State of the Field
Authors: Taylor Brian D.
Published: June 2019

Security issues were a central part of Soviet studies. This article considers how the study of security issues has changed with respect to Russia and Eurasia since the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union. It highlights a series of positive changes: a broadening of vision beyond Moscow, more engagement with mainstream social science, greater attention to security issues internal to post-Soviet states, and the creation of an expert community that spans North America, Europe, and Eurasia. At the same time, I argue that scholarship on Russian and Eurasian security issues has become less strategic, in the sense this word is used by Richard Betts – about the interaction of political ends and military means, rooted in an appreciation of military science. The academy, especially in North America, has become a less welcoming place for scholars working on Russia and Eurasia who care about previously central issues in the field such as nuclear strategy, weapons procurement, military doctrine, and defense planning.
The holomorph of Neoroussoella alishanense sp. nov. (Roussoellaceae, Pleosporales) on Pennisetum purpureum (Poaceae)
Authors: KARUNARATHNA ANURUDDHA , PHOOKAMSAK RUNGTIWA , JAYAWARDENA RUVISHIKA S. , CHEEWANGKOON RATCHADAWAN , HYDE KEVIN D. , KUO CHANG-HSIN
Published: June 2019

A new species of Neoroussoella (Roussoellaceae) collected in Taiwan is introduced from Pennisetum purpureum with both asexual and sexual morphs. Phylogenetic analysis of a concatenated LSU-ITS-SSU-TEF1-α-RPB2 sequence dataset reveals that the new species forms a distinct sister clade with N. bambusae with high statistical support (100% ML/ 1.00 BYPP). Neoroussoella alishanense is morphologically similar with the generic type, N. bambusae, but N. alishanense is distinct in having larger ascomata and its ascospores lack a mucilaginous sheath. While, N. bambusae has smaller ascomata and its ascospores are surrounded by a mucilaginous sheath. A comparison of ITS, RPB2 and TEF1-α nucleotide bases shows that they are distinct species.
Influence of TiC on dry sliding wear and mechanical properties of in situ synthesized AA5052 metal matrix composites
Authors: Samal Priyaranjan , Vundavilli Pandu R , Meher Arabinda , Mahapatra Manas Mohan
Published: June 2019

In this paper, aluminium metal matrix composites were synthesized through in situ process in which aluminium alloy 5052 (AA5052) and titanium carbide were used as matrix and reinforcement materials, respectively. The microstructural characterization and formation of stable TiC phases were analyzed with the help of field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction analysis, respectively. The 9% TiC-reinforced MMCs had shown a considerable improvement, i.e. 32% increase in hardness, 78% in ultimate tensile strength and 116% increase in yield strength when compared with the base alloy. The tensile fracture of the specimens shows dimples, voids, cracks, and ridges indicating the brittle nature. Further, the dry sliding wear properties of the composites were studied with the help of a pin-on-disc wear testing machine. The composite with 9% TiC exhibited a decrease in volumetric wear loss by 24% when compared with the base alloy at a load of 30 N. With increase in the TiC content and applied load, the COF values decreased linearly for the composites. The 9% TiC-reinforced composites show an abrasive mode of wear mechanism as a result of formation of deep grooves with no plastic deformation. With the improvement obtained in the wear properties, this metal matrix composite can be considered as a replacement for the conventional brake disc material used in the automobile industry.
Micromechanical modelling of carbon nanotube reinforced composite materials with a functionally graded interphase
Authors: Taç Vahidullah , Gürses Ercan
Published: June 2019

This paper introduces a new method of determining the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube-polymer composites using a multi-inclusion micromechanical model with functionally graded phases. The nanocomposite was divided into four regions of distinct mechanical properties; the carbon nanotube, the interface, the interphase and bulk polymer. The carbon nanotube and the interface were later combined into one effective fiber using a finite element model. The interphase was modelled in a functionally graded manner to reflect the true nature of the portion of the polymer surrounding the carbon nanotube. The three phases of effective fiber, interphase and bulk polymer were then used in the micromechanical model to arrive at the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite. An orientation averaging integration was then applied on the results to better reflect macroscopic response of nanocomposites with randomly oriented nanotubes. The results were compared to other numerical and experimental findings in the literature.
Metal matrix composite material reinforced with metal wire and produced with gas metal arc welding
Authors: Moreira Roberta Cristina Silva , Kovalenko Oksana , Souza Daniel , Reis Ruham Pablo
Published: June 2019

In the search for high-performance parts and structures, especially for the aviation and aerospace industry, metal matrix composites appear with prominence. However, despite exhibiting high levels of mechanical properties and low densities, these materials are still very expensive, mainly due to complex production. Thus, this work aims to present and evaluate a novel way of manufacturing metal matrix composites, with relative low cost and complexity: by using low-energy fusion welding to deposit the matrix material on top of continuous metal wire reinforcement. For proof of concept, Al alloy was used as matrix material, a single Ti alloy wire as reinforcement, and gas metal arc welding CMT-Pulse® as the process for material deposition. The simplified Al–Ti composite was evaluated in terms of impact resistance and tensile strength and stiffness. Overall, the mechanical performance of the composite was around 23% higher than that of the matrix material itself (Al), this with only about 2% of reinforcement volume and just over 3% of increase in weight. Analyses of the Al–Ti composite fractures and cross-sections and of chemical composition and hardness of the matrix–reinforcement transition interface indicated the preservation (no melting) of the Ti wire and the existence of a fine contour of bonding between matrix and reinforcement. At the end, a brief discussion on the dynamics of the wire reinforcement preservation is carried out based on high-speed filming.
Deconstruction of Life in the Dualism of Dream/Awakening in Bereaved Women
Authors: Afshani Seyed Alireza , Ruhani Ali , Naeimi Negin
Published: June 2019

In the traditional/religious context of the Iranian society, dream plays a very important role. To understand its role, the purpose of this study was to discover the role of dreams in the lives of the bereaved and to reconstruct semantics. In this study, the qualitative approach and grounded theory have been considered. In this regard, the bereaved, whom their loved ones were passed away at least 4 months and at last 4 years, were studied by deep interviewing until data saturation occurs. Therefore, the findings of this study revealed the dualism of dream/awakening in the bereaved, which ultimately results in the deconstruction of the bereaved due to the spiritual interaction of the bereaved and the deceased.
Time Spent in Sedentary Activity Is Related to Gross Motor Ability During the Second Year of Life
Authors: Hauck Janet L. , Felzer-Kim Isabella T.
Published: June 2019

Sedentary activity occupies a substantial amount of time during early childhood, with these habits influenced by changing trends in screen time for very young children. Among school-aged children, motor ability is inversely related to sedentary activity. However, the concept of sedentary activity is rarely investigated in toddlers, and thus little is known concerning its relationship with motor development during this rapidly changing and early period of life. Among two groups of toddlers, aged 18 months ( N = 26) and aged 24 months ( N = 16), this study investigated cross-sectional correlations of motor development (Bayley Scales of Infant Development—III) with daily sedentary activity (accelerometers). In both groups, gross motor ability, but not fine motor ability, was inversely correlated with time spent in sedentary activity. At 18 months, gross motor raw scores inversely correlated significantly with time in sedentary activity ( r = −.533, p < .001) but fine motor raw scores did not ( r = .182, p = .441). Also, at 24 months, gross motor raw scores inversely correlated with time in sedentary activity ( r = −.563, p = .029), while fine motor raw scores did not ( r = −.112, p = .425). These findings add important missing knowledge to the empirical literature regarding sedentary activity in toddlers and its relationship to emerging motor development. Future work might investigate best practices for measuring sedentary activity in this age-group and mechanisms behind its relationship with gross motor skills.
Event-triggered uniform ultimate bound control for linear systems with time-varying delay
Authors: Cui Yanliang , Xu Lanlan
Published: June 2019

This paper investigates an effective event-triggered control for linear systems with time-varying delay. For reducing the sampled data transmission amount, a novel event-trigger is proposed wherein a state-independent threshold is involved. For guaranteeing uniformly ultimately bounded stability, an event-triggered feedback control law is proposed. By aid of a new free-weight matrix technique, the event-trigger and control co-design method is conveniently obtained. By pre-specifying the threshold of the event-trigger, the event-triggered frequency and the ultimate state convergence region can be simultaneously regulated. In addition, the convergence rate of closed-loop system is pre-specifiable as well. More significantly, the minimal event-triggering time interval is given. During that time interval, the event-trigger can not be violated, thus the Zeno phenomena is excluded naturally. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Consistency in Single-Case ABAB Phase Designs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tanious René , De Tamal Kumar , Michiels Bart , Van den Noortgate Wim , Onghena Patrick
Published: June 2019

The current article presents a systematic review of consistency in single-case ABAB phase designs. We applied the CONsistency of DAta Patterns (CONDAP) measure to a sample of 460 data sets retrieved from 119 applied studies published over the past 50 years. The main purpose was to (a) identify typical CONDAP values found in published ABAB designs and (b) develop interpretational guidelines for CONDAP to be used for future studies to assess the consistency of data patterns from similar phases. The overall distribution of CONDAP values is right-skewed with several extreme values to the right of the center of the distribution. The B-phase CONDAP values fall within a narrower range than the A-phase CONDAP values. Based on the cumulative distribution of CONDAP values, we offer the following interpretational guidelines in terms of consistency: very high, 0 ≤ CONDAP ≤ 0.5; high, 0.5 < CONDAP ≤ 1; medium, 1 < CONDAP < 1.5; low, 1.5 < CONDAP ≤ 2; very low, CONDAP > 2. We give examples of combining CONDAP benchmarks with visual analysis of single-case ABAB phase designs and conclude that the majority of data patterns (41.2%) in published ABAB phase designs is medium consistent.
Outcomes of cardiovascular surgery for chronic dialysis patients in current Japan
Authors: Kurazumi Hiroshi , Takahashi Masaya , Ikenaga Shigeru
Published: June 2019

Background

The number of dialysis patients in Japan is rising, with an increasing number requiring cardiovascular surgery.

Methods

We investigated the short- and long-term outcomes in 70 dialysis patients among a total of 1124 who underwent cardiovascular surgery in our hospital between 2004 and 2016. We investigated outcomes following open surgery and identified factors that affected the prognosis. We also compared the long-term survival rate with the survival rate of the Japanese dialysis population.

Results

The long-term survival rate was 70.6%, 51.1%, and 19.2% after 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. The causes of long-term death were heart disease in 8 patients, cerebrovascular disease in 7, cachexia in 3, infection in 2, and other causes in 3. The freedom from cardiac death was 88.7%, 77.9%, and 54.9% after 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Multivariate analysis using Cox’s proportional hazard model showed that a history of atherosclerosis obliterans (hazard ratio 5.4, p = 0.05) and mediastinitis (hazard ratio 10.2, p = 0.03) were risk factors for death in long-term follow-up, and a history of atherosclerosis obliterans was an independent risk factor for cardiac death in long-term follow-up (hazard ratio 5.3, p = 0.01). Five-year survival of the study subjects was comparable to that of the Japanese dialysis population.

Conclusions

The prognosis for dialysis patients after open surgery was equivalent to that of Japanese dialysis patients in general. A high proportion of late postoperative deaths were due to heart disease. Patients with atherosclerosis obliterans had a poor prognosis.
Maximum exposure: Making sense in the background of extensive urbanization
Authors: Simone AbdouMaliq
Published: June 2019

Building upon notions of extended urbanization, the essay reflects on the sensory implications of what it means when urbanization becomes extensive, i.e. when decision-making is subject to a multiplicity of forces that make coherent narratives about what is taking place problematic, while “extending” an enlarged field of opportunities as well as constraints for individual livelihoods. As many residents of Jakarta provisionally settle in distant peripheries and eke out an uncertain endurance in urban core working class districts, while operating across larger swathes of territory in search of opportunity, increased reference is made to the background. This is not only a diffuse, uncertain object of residents’ attention but a strategic way of sensing how their everyday lives are being folded in to multiple disparate trajectories of urban remaking and a concrete terrain of operations. As such the essay, through an engagement with residents in one of Jakarta’s long existing working class districts, explores what it means to inhabit the processes rather than places of urbanization and how their experiments with new ways of being exposed to all that the city may posit opens up new itineraries for navigating the city, yet also holds together a sense of purpose and well-being.
The effect of training and rater differences on oral proficiency assessment
Authors: Kang Okim , Rubin Don , Kermad Alyssa
Published: June 2019

As a result of the fact that judgments of non-native speech are closely tied to social biases, oral proficiency ratings are susceptible to error because of rater background and social attitudes. In the present study we seek first to estimate the variance attributable to rater background and attitudinal variables on novice raters’ assessments of L2 spoken English. Second, we examine the effects of minimal training in reducing the potency of those trait-irrelevant rater factors. Accordingly, we examined the relative impact of rater differences on TOEFL iBT® speaking scores. Eighty-two untrained raters judged 112 speech samples produced by TOEFL® examinees. Findings revealed that approximately 20% of untrained raters’ score variance was, in part, a result of their background and attitudinal factors. The strongest predictor was the raters’ own native speaker status. However, minimal online training dramatically reduced the impact of rater background and attitudinal variables for a subsample of high- and low-severity raters. Implications suggest that brief and user-friendly rater-training sessions offer the promise of mitigating rater bias, at least in the short run. This procedure can be adopted in assessment and other related fields of applied linguistics.
Antithrombin supplementation in adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Morrisette Matthew J , Zomp-Wiebe Amanda , Bidwell Katherine L , Dunn Steven P , Gelvin Michael G , Money Dustin T , Palkimas Surabhi
Published: June 2019

Introduction:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis and hemorrhage. Acquired antithrombin deficiency often occurs in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, necessitating supplementation to restore adequate anticoagulation. Criteria for antithrombin supplementation in adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients are not well defined.

Methods:

In this retrospective observational study, adult patients receiving antithrombin supplementation while supported on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were evaluated. Antithrombin was supplemented when anti-Xa levels were subtherapeutic with unfractionated heparin infusion rates of 15-20 units/kg/h and measured antithrombin activity <50%. Patients were evaluated for changes in degree of anticoagulation and signs of bleeding 24 hours pre- and post-antithrombin supplementation.

Results:

A total of 14 patients received antithrombin supplementation while on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The median percentage of time therapeutic anti-Xa levels were maintained was 0% (0-43%) and 40% (9-84%) in the pre-antithrombin and post-antithrombin groups, respectively (p = 0.13). No difference was observed in the number of patients attaining a single therapeutic anti-Xa level (pre-antithrombin = 6, post-antithrombin = 13; p = 0.37) or unfractionated heparin infusion rate (pre-antithrombin = 7.35 (1.95-10.71) units/kg/h, post-antithrombin = 6.81 (3.45-12.58) units/kg/h; p = 0.33). Thirteen patients (92%) achieved an antithrombin activity at goal following supplementation. Antithrombin activity was maintained within goal range 52% of the time during the replacement period. Four bleeding events occurred pre-antithrombin and 10 events post-antithrombin administration (p = 0.26) with significantly more platelets administered post-antithrombin (pre-antithrombin = 0.5 units, post-antithrombin = 4.5 units; p = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Therapeutic anticoagulation occurred more frequently following antithrombin supplementation; however, this difference was not statistically significant. More bleeding events occurred following antithrombin supplementation while observing an increase in platelet transfusions.
MRI evaluation of the relationship between carotid artery endothelial shear stress and brain white matter lesions in migraine
Authors: Hoogeveen Evelien S , Arkink Enrico B , van der Grond Jeroen , van Buchem Mark A , Ferrari Michel D , Terwindt Gisela M , Kruit Mark C ,   On Behalf of the PROSPER Study Group
Published: June 2019

Although white matter lesions are frequently detected in migraine patients, underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Low carotid artery endothelial shear stress has been associated with white matter lesions. We aimed to investigate the association between carotid artery endothelial shear stress and white matter lesions in migraine. In 40 elderly migraine patients ( n = 29 females, 75 years [SD 3]) and 219 controls ( n = 80 females, 74 years [SD 3]) from the PROSPER-MRI study, carotid artery endothelial shear stress was estimated on 1.5 T gradient-echo phase contrast MRI. White matter lesion volumes were calculated from structural MRI scans. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular disease. Migraine patients had lower mean endothelial shear stress compared to controls (0.90 [SD 0.15] vs. 0.98 [SD 0.16] Pa; P = 0.03). The association between mean endothelial shear stress and white matter lesion volume was greater for the migraine group than control group ( P for interaction = 0.05). Within the migraine group, white matter lesion volume increased with decreasing endothelial shear stress (β-0.421; P = 0.01). In conclusion, migraine patients had lower endothelial shear stress which was associated with higher white matter lesion volume.
Determinants of Fertility in Bangladesh: Evidence From the 2014 Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Nahar Mosammat Z. , Zahangir Mohammad S.
Published: June 2019

This study uses the cumulative fertility approach to examine a wide variety of factors affecting fertility among all ever-married women of childbearing ages in Bangladesh. Data are taken from the 2014 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. The mean number of children ever born for all women is 2.45 and for women aged 40 to 49 years is 3.89. The one-way analysis of variance is performed to observe differences in the mean number of children ever born across the levels of covariates. The generalized linear model with Poisson link function is carried out to examine the effect of covariates on fertility. The incidence rate ratio is greater than one, that is, fertility is higher among women who are Muslims, illiterates, or primary school graduates; have no access to mass media; give the first birth at the age of 15 years or earlier; ever use any contraceptive; and desired three or more babies as the ideal number of children. Type of place of residence, administrative divisions, husband’s education, respondent’s working status, husband’s occupation, age at first marriage, and the spousal age difference are also significant to some extent, especially for assessing the fertility of all women.