bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher Social Anxiety Severity Predicts Better Cognitive Empathy Performance in Women but Not Men
Authors: Berg Samantha K. , Bedwell Jeffrey S. , Dvorak Robert D. , Tone Erin B.
Published: October 2020

Findings regarding relationships between social anxiety and subtypes of empathy have been mixed, and one study suggested that this may be due to moderation by biological sex. The present study examined whether accounting for general anxiety and biological sex clarifies these relationships. Undergraduates ( N = 701, 76% female) completed online self-report measures of cognitive and affective empathy, social and general anxiety severity, and a behavioral measure of cognitive empathy (Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task; MIE). Path analysis examined relationships among social and general anxiety severity and affective and cognitive empathy. Model modification indices showed a significant influence of sex on the path from social anxiety severity to MIE accuracy. When the model was re-estimated with this path freed, more socially anxious women, but not men, showed greater MIE accuracy. Across both sexes, general anxiety severity related negatively to self-reported and behavioral (MIE) cognitive empathy. Affective empathy did not relate to either type of anxiety. The use of path analysis to simultaneously account for overlapping variance among measures of anxiety and empathy helps clarify earlier mixed findings on relationships between social anxiety and empathy subtypes.
A Corpus-Based Approach to Grammar Instruction in IELTS Writing Classes
Authors: Pham Quy Huynh Phu
Published: October 2020

In recent years, the use of English corpora to instruct grammar in writing classes has become increasingly popular. In English for Specific Purposes classes, such a novel approach is critically important since it not only allows teachers to achieve a profound understanding of which syntactic structures should be instructed, but it also increases students’ exposure to a massive amount of language examples present in the corpus. Given the necessity of corpus-based grammar instruction, the article provides a detailed description of the utilization of AntConc, a concordance software program, to teach grammar in IELTS writing classes. The innovation aims to assist teachers to write teaching materials that accommodate students’ needs while enhancing students’ learning motivation and independent learning.
Strategic Orientation and Relationship Building Among Dyads in Complex Public Management Networks: Perspectives From State Asthma Coalitions
Authors: Smith Stephanie L. , Huang Kun , Peng Shuyang
Published: October 2020

We explore strategic orientation as an approach to analyzing complexity in public management networks, asking how theoretically informed insights on relationship building fare when examined in the context of sector-, function- and policy arena–oriented dyads that form constituent elements of networks. Our survey of state asthma coalitions provides support for six facilitating factors regardless of strategic pairing, with surprisingly widespread support for differing ideas about how to address problems as a facilitative factor. The study also reveals several differences between dyads by strategic orientation, suggesting the approach offers a promising pathway to advancing analysis of complexity in networks.
Experimental study on the spatial and temporal variations of temperature and indicator gases during coal spontaneous combustion
Authors: Chen Junchao , Li Lin , Jiang Deyi , Zhou Lei , Wang Liang
Published: October 2020

Coal spontaneous combustion is one of the main potential hazards in the process of mining. To study the spatial and temporal variations of higher-temperature area and indicator gases, an adiabatic oxidation testing system was developed to simulate the whole process of coal spontaneous combustion. The experimental results show that the entire process of coal spontaneous combustion could be divided into three stages: slow-oxidation, accelerated-oxidation and combustion stages. In the slow-oxidation stage, the higher-temperature area shifted slowly from the bottom to the top and then stayed at the top until accelerated-oxidation stage was reached; [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] concentration remained more or less constant as well as the oxygen concentration. In accelerated-oxidation stage, the higher-temperature area moved to the bottom rapidly and subsequently stayed approximately in the center of the coal; [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] concentration and oxygen consumption increased sharply. In addition, the occurrence of higher-temperature area is accompanied by higher oxygen consumption. The obtained results show that higher air supply rate could shorten spontaneous combustion period and there exists a hyperbolic relationship between the temperature and time.
Community-Based Participatory Research Interventions to Improve Diabetes Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Campbell Jennifer A. , Yan Alice , Egede Leonard E.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic evaluation of community-based participatory research (CBPR) interventions on diabetes outcomes. Understanding of effective CBPR interventions on diabetes outcomes is limited, and findings remain unclear.

Methods

A reproducible search strategy was used to identify studies testing CBPR interventions to improve diabetes outcomes, including A1C, fasting glucose, blood pressure, lipids, and quality of life. Pubmed, PsychInfo, and CINAHL were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2020. Using a CBPR continuum framework, studies were classified based on outreach, consulting, involving, collaborating, and shared leadership.

Results

A total of 172 were screened, and a title search was conducted to determine eligibility. A total of 16 articles were included for synthesis. Twelve out of the 16 studies using CBPR approaches for diabetes interventions demonstrated statistically significant differences in 1 or more diabetes outcomes measured at a postintervention time point. Studies across the spectrum of CBPR demonstrated statistically significant improvements in diabetes outcomes.

Conclusions

Of the 16 studies included for synthesis, 14 demonstrated statistically significant changes in A1C, fasting glucose, blood pressure, lipids, and quality of life. The majority of studies used community health workers (CHWs) to deliver interventions across group and individual settings and demonstrated significant reductions in diabetes outcomes. The evidence summarized in this review shows the pivotal role that CHWs and diabetes care and education specialists play in not only intervention delivery but also in the development of outward-facing diabetes care approaches that are person- and community-centered.
Patterns of Insider Trading: It Is Not All Black and White
Authors: Azmi Shabestari Mehrzad , Cao Min , Sarath Bharat
Published: October 2020

The regular pattern of quarterly earnings announcements sets up a predictable pattern of information asymmetry in the market. Both regulatory restrictions and voluntary corporate restrictions direct trading to low information asymmetry periods. To understand the effect of these restrictions, this study examines insider trading in three different windows: white windows (3–12 trading days after the earnings announcement, periods with low information asymmetry), black windows (all the other days in the quarter, periods with higher information asymmetry), and the blackest windows (the last 10 trading days of the black window, periods with the highest information asymmetry). First, our results show that a large proportion of insider trading in the United States takes place in the black window. Second, we document that trading in the white period exhibits a strong self-selection bias. We also show that the excess returns earned by black period trades vanish if postponed to the next white period following the earnings announcement. Finally, we show that a relatively large proportion of pre-specified trading under SEC-sponsored 10b5-1 plans are filed for black window periods, but the difference across black and white window plans is a matter of frequency of trade rather than the magnitude of profits. Overall, these results suggest that insiders balance the risk and profitability of their trading in white and black windows and that insider trading restriction in high-information asymmetry periods is not effective in practice.
Endogeneity: A Review and Agenda for the Methodology-Practice Divide Affecting Micro and Macro Research
Authors: Hill Aaron D. , Johnson Scott G. , Greco Lindsey M. , O’Boyle Ernest H. , Walter Sheryl L.
Published: October 2020

An expanding number of methodological resources, reviews, and commentaries both highlight endogeneity as a threat to causal claims in management research and note that practices for addressing endogeneity in empirical work frequently diverge from the recommendations of the methodological literature. We aim to bridge this divergence, helping both macro and micro researchers understand fundamental endogeneity concepts by: (1) defining a typology of four distinct causes of endogeneity, (2) summarizing endogeneity causes and methods used in management research, (3) organizing the expansive methodological literature by matching the various methods to address endogeneity to the appropriate resources, and (4) setting an agenda for future scholarship by recommending practices for researchers and gatekeepers about identifying, discussing, and reporting evidence related to endogeneity. The resulting review builds literacy about endogeneity and ways to address it so that scholars and reviewers can better produce and evaluate research. It also facilitates communication about the topic so that both micro- and macro-oriented researchers can understand, evaluate, and implement methods across disciplines.
Healthy Food Access and Low-Income Teens: A Photovoice Approach
Authors: Simpson Vicki , Pedigo Lindsey , Hamdan Rodriguez Muna
Published: October 2020

Lack of access to healthy foods disproportionately impacts adolescents. This mixed-methods study used photovoice to explore everyday lived experiences of food access among teens from low-income families, empowering them to share their stories. Sixty-three diverse teens (12–17 years) from across one Midwest state took images and created narratives to support community presentations. Independent content analysis identified themes. Researchers used t tests to compare pre-post differences ( p < 0.05) for two scales related to empowerment and positive youth development. Themes suggest teens take on adult responsibilities relative to food access, generally selecting unhealthy foods. Families and after-school programs were critical to food-related experiences, with cultural differences noted. A statistically significant increase, t(58) = -2.225, p = .032, was noted for “most community leaders in my city would listen to me.” Findings support the need to address factors contributing to difficulties accessing healthy foods in home and community settings.
Qualitative Study of African-American Women’s Intergenerational Dialogue for HIV Prevention
Authors: Robinson Gayle
Published: October 2020

Despite the many established strategies designed to prevent Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission in the United States, African-American (AA) women are disproportionately affected by the virus. This descriptive qualitative study explored AA women’s experiences of Intergenerational Dialogues (IGD) about HIV prevention. Study participants included 30 AA women representing four generational cohorts (the Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials). Recruitment occurred in Scott County, Mississippi. Data were collected through in-person, in-depth interviews. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis. Four themes emerged from using conventional content analysis: Acknowledging the Importance of Community Connections; Helping Others by Sharing; Using Self-Knowledge as a Preventive Strategy; and Encouraging Others to Manage Intimate Relationships. Findings suggest that intergenerational dialogues may be an effective strategy to help AA women manage intimate relationships and potentially contribute to preventing HIV transmission.
Approach to Informed Consent in Telepsychiatric Service: Indian Perspective
Authors: Gowda Guru S , Enara Arun , Ali Furkhan , Gowda Mahesh R , Basavarajappa Chethan , Kumar Channaveerachari Naveen , Math Suresh Bada
Published: October 2020

Consent is an essential and important medico-legal prerequisite for a patient’s treatment. This necessitates the service provider to participate in the informed consent process and discuss the risk-benefit of the proposed treatment, the best available treatment, engage in shared decision-making process, opportunity to convey their view and thereby limit chances of legal liability for all parties. The clinician should have ample knowledge and skill pertaining to the informed consent process and also have adequate understanding of medical ethics and law. This article provides an overview on informed consent pertaining to telepsychiatric services in India.
The Logic of the In-Visible: Decolonial Reflections on the Change of Epoch
Authors: Mignolo Walter D.
Published: October 2020

I argue that the lived experience we, the human species, are going through in 2020 is no longer an epoch of changes but a change of epoch. Post-pandemic (and any other areas of experience you could post-) is becoming meaningless in a change of epoch. My argument is based on the history of the colonial matrix of power rather than in particular thematic histories which, in this case, will be the history of pandemics and the history of the economy. Both are working together, globally now, and entangled in the colonial matrix of power, which can not be found in the origin of the universe, in Babylon or in Greece. It did not exist until the 16th century in the Atlantic, the Black and the White, the North and the South. The logic of coloniality is the logic of the invisible and it is by understanding its historical foundation, its unfolding and the radical transformations in the past two decades, that the signs of the change of epoch can be perceived and understood.
Transformation as relational mobilisation: The networked geography of Addis Ababa’s sustainable transport interventions
Authors: Grandin Jakob , Haarstad Håvard
Published: October 2020

Literatures on sustainability transition and transformation increasingly emphasise the role of spatiality and local agency. This paper argues that relational thinking has much more to offer this debate than presently acknowledged, particularly in revealing the geographical interconnections between dispersed nodes of action and innovation. We use relationality to show the interconnections at work in exchanging and negotiating sustainability interventions between cities and across scales. Using the mass transit planning process in Addis Ababa as a point of entry, we trace how the city’s transformation is negotiated at the intersection of local agency, the Ethiopian national political setting and international networks. A host of actors from different scales come together as transformation is assembled by aligning extensive local experience with elements mobilised from elsewhere. This relational mobilisation perspective arguably infuses hope into the debate, because it opens new ways of identifying seemingly insignificant actions and actors elsewhere and recognising them as potential drivers of change.
Diagnosis and therapy using double-balloon endoscopy for small bowel disease: experience from a Chinese tertiary hospital
Authors: Yin Anning , Hu Wei , Zhao Liang , Ding Yijuan , Yu Honggang
Published: October 2020

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) for small bowel disease (SBD).

Methods

The clinical and endoscopic data of patients who underwent DBE in a Chinese tertiary hospital from January 2006 to December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into three groups by age: the young group (<45 years), middle-aged group (45–65 years), and older group (>65 years).

Results

In total, 1177 patients who underwent 2134 DBE procedures were included. The anterograde and retrograde route was used in 1111 and 1023 procedures, respectively. The most common reason for performing DBE was suspected small bowel bleeding (SSBB) (53.1%), and the most common SBD was Crohn's disease (CD) (18.1%). Hemostasis was the predominant endoscopic therapy (54.3%). The total complication rate was 0.8%. The incidence of CD was highest in the young group, and the incidence of tumors was highest in the older group; these findings were consistent both among the overall patient population and among patients with SSBB.

Conclusions

DBE is effective and safe for the diagnosis and treatment of SBD and is considered to have great potential as a first-line method for diagnosing SBD.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection of coexisting early esophageal carcinoma and leiomyoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liang Ma , Fei Ding , Jianguo Song , Changping Wu , Juan Dai , Yin Zhang , Liwen Zhang , Jianping Chen
Published: October 2020

The occurrence of early esophageal cancer located within an area of leiomyoma is extremely rare, and its clinical features and treatment methods have not been well described. We herein report the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment methods of early esophageal cancer that developed on top of a leiomyoma in the upper third of the esophagus in a 78-year-old woman. All tumor marker concentrations were normal. The leiomyoma was correctly diagnosed as a submucosal tumor by endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography. Endoscopic biopsy revealed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Both lesions were successfully treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection. The patient was followed up for 6 months without recurrence. Endoscopic submucosal dissection was a successful initial treatment method for esophageal carcinoma coexisting with esophageal leiomyoma in this case.
Combination of D-dimer and simplified pulmonary embolism severity index to improve prediction of hospital death in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Wu Hai-Di , Song Zi-Kai , Xu Xiao-Yan , Cao Hong-Yan , Wei Qi , Wang Jun-Feng , Zhang Xue , Wang Xing-Wen , Qin Ling
Published: October 2020

Objective

To investigate whether the combination of D-dimer and simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI) could improve prediction of in-hospital death from pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods

Patients with PE (n = 272) were divided into a surviving group (n = 249) and an in-hospital death group (n = 23).

Results

Compared with surviving patients, patients who died in hospital had significantly higher rates of hypotension and tachycardia, reduced SaO2 levels, elevated D-dimer and troponin T levels, higher sPESI scores, and were more likely to be classified as high risk. Elevated D-dimer levels and high sPESI scores were significantly associated with in-hospital death. Using thresholds for D-dimer and sPESI of 3.175 ng/mL and 1.5, respectively, the specificity for prediction of in-hospital death was 0.357 and 0.414, respectively, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.665 and 0.668, respectively. When D-dimer and sPESI were considered together, the specificity for prediction of in-hospital death increased to 0.838 and the AUC increased to 0.74.

Conclusions

D-dimer and sPESI were associated with in-hospital death from PE. Considering D-dimer levels together with sPESI can significantly improve the specificity of predicting in-hospital death for patients with PE.
Multimodal chiropractic care for migraine: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rist Pamela M , Bernstein Carolyn , Kowalski Matthew , Osypiuk Kamila , Connor Julie P , Vining Robert , Long Cynthia R , Macklin Eric A , Wayne Peter M
Published: October 2020

Background

Spinal manipulation may reduce migraine frequency, but effects of multimodal chiropractic care on migraine frequency have not been evaluated.

Methods

We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing multimodal chiropractic care + enhanced usual care (MCC+) versus enhanced usual care alone (EUC) among adult women with episodic migraine. EUC was comprised of usual medical care and migraine education literature. MCC+ participants received 10 sessions of chiropractic care over 14 weeks. Primary aims evaluated feasibility of recruitment, retention, protocol adherence, and safety. Change in migraine days was a secondary aim.

Results

Of 422 patients screened, 61 were randomized over 20 months. Fifty-seven (93%) completed daily migraine logs during the intervention, 51 (84%) completed final follow-up, and 45 (74%) completed all assessments. Twenty-four of 29 MCC+ participants (83%) attended > 75% of the chiropractic sessions. Ninety-eight non-serious adverse events were reported by 26 participants (43%) with 39 events among 11 EUC participants and 59 events among 15 MCC+ participants. MCC+ participants experienced greater reductions in migraine days (−2.9 days for MCC+ vs. −1.0 days for EUC, difference = −1.9; 95% confidence interval: −3.5, −0.4).

Conclusions

Pre-specified feasibility criteria were not met, but deficits were remediable. Preliminary data support a definitive trial of MCC+ for migraine.

Trial Registration

This study is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03177616).
Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ Experience With and Perceptions of the Affordable Care Act: Thematic Analysis of Online Discussion Forums
Authors: Yi Eun-Hye Grace , Adamek Margaret E.
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study was to analyze caregivers’ authentic perceptions of and experiences with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This mixed-methods study identified and analyzed caregivers’ unsolicited posts on a national online forum. Data posted in 2011 to 2017 were collected. The text-mining thematic analysis method was used to code and analyze 514 caregiver posts. Although many caregiver posts about the ACA had a negative tone, perceptions became more positive over time. Three overall themes emerged: (a) concern about cost implications of placement decisions for care recipients, (b) skepticism about government and health care system support of their caregiving roles, and (c) caregivers’ own well-being and concerns about health insurance. Clear and effective communication between policymakers, health professionals, and caregivers is needed to enhance health system literacy. Policymakers, as well as health and social care professionals working with Alzheimer’s patients and their families, should be empowered to develop and support a family-centered service system.
Metal doped calcium silicate biomaterial for skin tissue regeneration in vitro
Authors: Mohamed Abudhahir K , Murugesan R , Vijayashree R , Selvamurugan N , Chung Tze-Wen , Moorthi A
Published: October 2020

This study spots light on combined Wound healing process conjoining blood coagulation, inflammation reduction, proliferation and remodeling of the cells. The objective is to overcome the drawbacks of conventional clinically applied wound dressings such as poor rigidity, porosity, mechanical potency and bactericidal activity. As nosocomial infection is a very common condition at the wound site, bio-adhesive materials with intrinsic antibacterial properties are used in clinical applications. Considering the provenability of Wollastonite [Calcium silicate (CaSiO3)] to regenerate the soft tissues by inducing vascularization and regeneration of fibroblast cells And the antibacterial potentiality of zinc in clinical applications, the present study focuses on synthesis of Zn-Ws particles and evaluation of its antimicrobial and wound healing potentialities towards skin tissue engineering applications. The compositional characterization by EDAS and FT-IR spectral analysis have substantiated the presence of major elements and corresponding band stretching associated with the synthesized particles whereas the particles morphology by SEM images have shown the size of the Ws and Zn-Ws to be 370 nm and 530 nm respectively. From the in vitro studies, skin regenerative potential of Zn-Ws was determined on promoting fibroblast cell (NIH3T3) proliferation by providing better adhesiveness, biocompatibility and cytocompatibility. The antibacterial property of Zn-Ws evaluation by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and zone of inhibition (ZOI) methods against clinical isolates of Gram +Ve and Gram –Ve bacterial strains have confirmed that the addition of Zn has diminished the bacterial growth and also helped in degrading the bacterial biofilms. Thus it is summed up that the process of wound healing is expected to occur with reduced risk of post-injury infections by the presence of zinc-doping on wollastonite for skin tissue application.
The effect of bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde and polyethylene glycol polymer on neointimal hyperplasia in rabbit carotid artery anastomosis
Authors: Karaagac Erturk , Besir Yuksel , Kurus Meltem , Gokalp Orhan , Iscan Sahin , Gokkurt Yasar , Kandemir Cagri , Topal Fatih Esad , Keselik Erdi , Eygi Bortecin , Gurbuz Ali
Published: October 2020

Objective

Since the systemic drugs have been used to reduce the hyperplasic response in the tunica intima, the periadventitial local drug applications to the vascular wall have gained more popularity. In this study, we investigated the effect of bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde and polyethylene glycol polymer on neointimal hyperplasia in rabbit carotid artery anastomosis to explore the effects of these two different agents.

Methods

21 New Zealand male rabbits were randomly divided into three groups. The carotid artery transection and anastomosis was performed onthe control group. The bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde and the polyethylene glycol polymer were applied locally on the other two groups seperatley after transection and anastomosis of the carotid arteries. At the end of 28-day follow-up, the histological and the immunohistochemical results related to neointimal hyperplasia were compared.

Results

The glue residues were detected in the BSA-glutaraldehyde group, but in the PEG polymer group there was no glue residue. The intima thickness and the intima/media thickness ratio in the control group was significantly higher (p<0.05) than the other groups. These values did not differ significantly between the BSA-glutaraldehyde group and the PEG polymer group (p>0.05). The lumen diameter and the area in the control group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the BSA-glutaraldehyde group. These values between the control group and the PEG polymer group did not differ significantly (p>0.05). aSMA-positive staining score in the Control group was found to be significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the BSA-glutaraldehyde and PEG polymer group and the VEGF-positive staining score in the control group was found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the BSA-glutaraldehyde and the PEG polymer group.

Conclusions

Although the both agents have positive results on neointimal hyperplasia, it would be favorable to use polyethylene glycol polymer, since it does not seem to affect the lumen area and the lumen diameter of the vessel.
The Use of Prothrombin Complex Concentrates: Results of a Nationwide Survey of Critical Care Pharmacists
Authors: Curry Brooke , Mueller Scott , MacLaren Robert
Published: October 2020

Background

Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) are frequently used.

Objective

To elucidate practices and perceptions of proprietary and nonproprietary PCCs use.

Methods

An electronic pretested cross-sectional survey e-mailed thrice to 1 critical care pharmacist at 1170 US institutions. Questions addressed hospital and pharmacy characteristics, use of PCCs, and perceptions of effectiveness and safety.

Results

429 (39.5%) of 1086 eligible institutions completed the questionnaire. PCCs were used several times per month to several times per week (62.6%). An order set was routinely or always used to direct PCCs usage at 66.4% of institutions. Four-factor PCCs were preferred by 93% of institutions. The most common perceived indications for 4-factor PCCs were hemorrhage related to warfarin (92.1%) or oral Xa inhibitors (81.8%), intracranial hemorrhage (78.4%), trauma hemorrhage (66.2%), surgical hemorrhage (61.1%), and refractory hemorrhage (57.3%). The most common perceived contraindications were heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (42%), disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (39.2%), and active thromboembolism (38.9%). Most institutions considered patient weight (78.8%), indication (77.6%), and International Normalized Ratio (76.9%) when dosing PCCs. Only 43.8% of institutions used fixed dose, only 19.6% compounded PCCs at the bedside, and only 11.9% administered PCCs by rapid infusion. Compared to standard blood products, respondents believed PCCs acted more rapidly, were less likely to cause volume issues, and were more expensive. Respondents were neutral about PCCs acting longer, being more effective at preventing or treating hemorrhage, or causing thromboembolism.

Conclusions

Off-label use of PCCs is common. Differing perceptions surrounding indications, contraindications, and comparisons to blood products/procoagulants likely contribute to variable practices.
Effect of pre-rolling temperature on the interfacial properties and formability of steel-steel bilayer sheet in Single Point Incremental Forming
Authors: Hassan Malik , Hussain Ghulam , Ali Aaqib , Ilyas Muhammad , Malik Sohail , Khan Wasim A , Bal Burak
Published: October 2020

The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of pre-rolling temperature on the interfacial properties in delamination modes 1 and 2; and formability in Single Point Incremental Forming (SPIF) of Steel-Steel (St-St) bilayer sheet prepared by roll bonding process. The roll bonding process was performed at three pre-rolling temperatures, 700°C, 800°C, and 950°C, with a constant thickness reduction ratio of 58%. The bond strength and critical strain energy release rate (CSERR) were measured to characterize the interface of St-St bilayer sheet. T-peel test for mode 1 and tensile shear test for mode 2 were conducted to determine the interfacial properties. The formability of St-St bilayer sheet in SPIF was measured in terms of maximum wall angle. The results showed that the increase in pre-rolling temperature from 700°C to 950°C enhanced the bond strength and CSERR, in both mode 1 and 2. The enhancement in bond strength with an increase in pre-rolling temperature was 149.5% and 203% in mode 1 and 2, respectively. However, the increase in CSERR in mode 1 and 2 was 115% and 367%, respectively. The formability of St-St bilayer sheet also showed an increasing trend with an increase in pre-rolling temperature. Moreover, a consistent relation between formability and interfacial parameters was observed. It was also found that to successively deform the bilayer sheet into the desired shape, it is necessary for the sheet to be heated above the critical temperature during fabrication to facilitate good bonding between two sheets.
On the strength of joints of metal-plastic composites of hot-formed steel with an AlSi coating and a thermosetting fiber reinforced compression material
Authors: Wehler S , Moritz P , Fischer F , Gude M
Published: October 2020

Novel manufacturing techniques and application of new hybrid materials in the automotive industry increase the challenges in adhesive bonding. One of these is the bonding of coated materials such as high-strength steel with an aluminum-silicon (AlSi) coating, which is mostly used in safety-relevant components such as the front or side bumpers. To further improve the mechanical properties, these steel structures can be locally reinforced with a fiber-reinforced compression molding compound (SMC). In this process, the SMC is pressed directly onto the structure, without any pre-treatment of the surface of the steel, whereby the thermosetting resin matrix forms an adhesive bond with the AlSi coating. The choice of a suitable base resin system is of decisive importance for the joint strength of such directly joined hybrid composites and thus also for the overall performance. Therefore three SMC formulations with different base resins were tested for direct adhesion to a metallic surface of a hot-formed steel with an AlSi coating. The aim of this investigation is to identify a correlation between energetic as well as optical surface characteristics and the mechanical strength of such direct hybrid joints. Furthermore, it shall be examined whether a modification of the base resin in the polymer has a significant influence on the bonding strength and the fracture pattern. For this, the project focuses on new methods for the mechanical testing of metal-plastic hybrid composites.
Xenogeneic and Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells Effectively Protect the Lung Against Ischemia-reperfusion Injury Through Downregulating the Inflammatory, Oxidative Stress, and Autophagic Signaling Pathways in Rat
Authors: Lin Kun-Chen , Yeh Jun-Ning , Chen Yi-Ling , Chiang John Y. , Sung Pei-Hsun , Lee Fan-Yen , Guo Jun , Yip Hon-Kan
Published: October 2020

This study tested the hypothesis that both allogenic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) and human inducible pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs (iPS-MSCs) offered a comparable effect for protecting the lung against ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in rodent through downregulating the inflammatory, oxidative stress, and autophagic signaling pathways. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats ( n = 32) were categorized into group 1 (sham-operated control), group 2 (IRI), group 3 [IRI + ADMSCs (1.0 × 106cells)/tail-vein administration at 0.5/18/36 h after IR], and group 4 [IRI + iPS-MSCs (1.0 × 106cells)/tail-vein administration at 0.5/18/36 h after IR], and lungs were harvested at 72 h after IR procedure. In vitro study demonstrated that protein expressions of three signaling pathways in inflammation (TLR4/MyD88/TAK1/IKK/I-κB/NF-κB/Cox-2/TNF-α/IL-1ß), mitochondrial damage/cell apoptosis (cytochrome C/cyclophilin D/DRP1/ASK1/APAF-1/mitochondrial-Bax/caspase3/8/9), and autophagy/cell death (ULK1/beclin-1/Atg5,7,12, ratio of LCB3-II/LC3B-I, p-AKT/m-TOR) were significantly higher in lung epithelial cells + 6h hypoxia as compared with the control, and those were significantly reversed by iPS-MSC treatment (all P < 0.001). Flow cytometric analysis revealed that percentages of the inflammatory cells in bronchioalveolar lavage fluid and circulation, and immune cells in circulation/spleen as well as circulatory early and late apoptotic cells were highest in group 2, lowest in group 1, and significantly higher in group 3 than in group 4 (all P < 0.0001). Microscopy showed the lung injury score and numbers of inflammatory cells and Western blot analysis showed the signaling pathways of inflammation, mitochondrial damage/cell apoptosis, autophagy, and oxidative stress exhibited an identical pattern of flow cytometric results among the four groups (all P < 0.0001). Both xenogeneic and allogenic MSCs protected the lung against IRI via suppressing the inflammatory, oxidative stress, and autophagic signaling.
Consensus Recommendations for the Safe Handling of Cytotoxic Agents in Cytotoxic Academic Research Laboratories (CARL)
Authors: Nabhani Gebara Shereen , Barton Stephen , Appleford Ian , McCalla Pauline , Sewell Graham , Sabbagh Dit Hawasli Racha
Published: October 2020

Cytotoxic agents, also called antineoplastic agents, are used in cancer treatment due to their inherent activity to inhibit cell growth or proliferation, or DNA, RNA and protein synthesis. They are, therefore, hazardous by nature in a non-selective manner leading to disruption of cell growth and function of both diseased and healthy cells of treated patients.

While the benefits of receiving cytotoxic agents may outweigh the incurred risks for patients, the same cannot be said for exposed healthcare practitioners involved in the transport, preparation, administration, and resulting waste disposal of these agents.

Consequently, many professional bodies around the world have set standards of practice to prevent occupational exposure of healthcare workers to cytotoxic agents, and hospitals have been active in defining strict policies in this concern.

However, due to the variability of the practice and infrastructure in academic settings, some activities performed within the cytotoxic academic research laboratory often do not adhere to recommendations published by guidelines.

The present recommendations were therefore set forward by members of a working group who are experts on the subject matter representing academic, clinical, and research backgrounds in an attempt to promote safe cytotoxic handling in academic institutions.

The document maps out the trajectory of cytotoxic agents being investigated in academic research laboratories while providing recommendations on the delivery, storage, use and disposal of cytotoxic agents in university settings.
Immunotherapy in gastroesophageal cancers: Current state and future directions
Authors: Shaikh Hira , Kamran Amir , Monga Dulabh K
Published: October 2020

While gastroesophageal (GE) cancers are one of the most common cancers worldwide, unfortunately, the mortality remains high. Commonly used treatment options include surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and molecular targeted therapy, which improve survival only minimally; thus, affirming the dire need for exploring alternative strategies to improve patient outcomes. Immunotherapy, which has revolutionized the world of oncology, has somewhat lagged behind in GE malignancies. Tumor-associated microenvironment and regulatory T cells, alongside cell cycle checkpoints, have been proposed by various studies as the mediators of carcinogenesis in GE cancers. Thus, inhibition of each of these could serve as a possible target of treatment. While the approval of pembrolizumab has provided some hope, it is not enough to override the dismal prognosis that this disease confers. Herein, we discuss the prospects of immunotherapy in this variety of cancer.
Diagnostic Value of Mid-esophageal Biopsies in Pediatric Patients With Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Chernetsova Elizaveta , Agarwal Amisha , Weir Arielle , Oltean Irina , Barkey Janet , Demellawy Dina El
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is histologically defined as the presence of 15 or more intraepithelial eosinophils per high-power fields. Limited consensus exists on where to sample the esophagus in pediatrics. This study aimed to identify whether endoscopic and histologic examination of the mid esophagus offers diagnostic value compared to proximal/distal esophageal biopsies.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients with EoE was performed. Endoscopic and histologic parameters were assessed at the initial and follow-up visits, and concordance between proximal/distal biopsy and mid biopsy was determined.

Results

A total of 100 patients with a mean age of 9.6 ± 4.07 years were included. Endoscopic parameters between proximal/distal and mid esophagus were concordant in 84% to 97% of patients (initial assessment) and in 80% to 97% of patients (at follow-up). Mid esophagus showed endoscopic abnormalities, which were absent at the proximal/distal esophagus in 1% to 5% of patients, as well as histologic abnormalities in 2% to 8% of patients overall at initial and follow-up examinations.

Conclusions

We recommend continued endoscopic and histologic assessment of the proximal/distal biopsy; however, examination of the mid esophagus does offer small diagnostic value in our subset of patients. Future studies need to be conducted before conclusive recommendations supporting the use of mid-esophageal biopsies can be made.
Marketing a Destination Brand Image to Muslim Tourists: Does Accessibility to Cultural Needs Matter In Developing Brand Loyalty?
Authors: Wisker Zazli Lily , Kadirov Djavlonbek , Nizar Jithin
Published: October 2020

Worldwide, Muslim travelers are expected to be worth more than US$450 billion by 2026. Ignoring Muslim tourists would be a missed opportunity for any country’s economy that depends on tourism. This study aims to help non-Muslim tourism providers to understand what Muslim travelers require. Specifically, the study posits that accessibility to cultural needs and brand image affects customer satisfaction, which in turn influences brand loyalty among Muslim tourists. Religiosity plays a role as a moderating variable. Quantitative data was collected from 291 Muslim tourists visiting New Zealand that is predominantly a Christian country through online and mall intercept surveys. The study has adopted Hayes’s PROCESS Model 8 to test the mediated–moderated model. The results indicate strong support for the research model. Finally, the study provides some theoretical discussions and strategic managerial implications on how to offer Muslim tourists the best possible experience.
PRF1 mutation alters immune system activation, inflammation, and risk of autoimmunity
Authors: Sidore Carlo , Orrù Valeria , Cocco Eleonora , Steri Maristella , Inshaw Jamie RJ , Pitzalis Maristella , Mulas Antonella , McGurnaghan Stuart , Frau Jessica , Porcu Eleonora , Busonero Fabio , Dei Mariano , Lai Sandra , Sole Gabriella , Virdis Francesca , Serra Valentina , Poddie Fausto , Delitala Alessandro , Marongiu Michele , Deidda Francesca , Pala Mauro , Floris Matteo , Masala Marco , Onengut-Gumuscu Suna , Robertson Catherine C , Leoni Lidia , Frongia Annapaola , Ricciardi Maria Rossella , Chessa Margherita , Olla Nazario , Lovicu Mario , Loizedda Annalisa , Maschio Andrea , Mereu Luisa , Ferrigno Paola , Curreli Nicolo , Balaci Lenuta , Loi Francesco , Ferreli Liana AP , Pilia Maria Grazia , Pani Antonello , Marrosu Maria Giovanna , Abecasis Goncalo R , Rich Stephen S , Colhoun Helen , Todd John A , Schlessinger David , Fiorillo Edoardo , Cucca Francesco , Zoledziewska Magdalena
Published: October 2020

Background:

Defective alleles within the PRF1 gene, encoding the pore-forming protein perforin, in combination with environmental factors, cause familial type 2 hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHL2), a rare, severe autosomal recessive childhood disorder characterized by massive release of cytokines—cytokine storm.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the function of hypomorph PRF1:p.A91V g.72360387 G > A on multiple sclerosis (MS) and type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods:

We cross-compare the association data for PRF1:p.A91V mutation derived from GWAS on adult MS and pediatric T1D in Sardinians. The novel association with T1D was replicated in metanalysis in 12,584 cases and 17,692 controls from Sardinia, the United Kingdom, and Scotland. To dissect this mutation function, we searched through the coincident association immunophenotypes in additional set of general population Sardinians.

Results:

We report that PRF1:p.A91V, is associated with increase of lymphocyte levels, especially within the cytotoxic memory T-cells, at general population level with reduced interleukin 7 receptor expression on these cells. The minor allele increased risk of MS, in 2903 cases and 2880 controls from Sardinia p = 2.06 × 10−4, odds ratio OR = 1.29, replicating a previous finding, whereas it protects from T1D p = 1.04 × 10−5, OR = 0.82.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate opposing contributions of the cytotoxic T-cell compartment to MS and T1D pathogenesis.
COVID-19 pandemic preventive behaviors and causal beliefs among Italian community dwelling adults
Authors: Somma Antonella , Gialdi Giulia , Frau Claudia , Barranca Margherita , Fossati Andrea
Published: October 2020

In an online sample of 1054 Italian community-dwelling adults, we assessed the relationships between the frequency of implementation of practices intended to prevent COVID-19 infection, degree of agreement with theories about the origin of the infections, and the frequency of use of different sources of information concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed that participants’ COVID-19-related preventive behaviors and causal beliefs were significantly associated with selected demographic variables and frequency of use of specific sources of information (e.g. scientific journals vs social media).
The relationship between the principle of sustainable development and the human right to a clean and healthy environment in Kenya’s legal context: An appraisal
Authors: Mwanza Rosemary
Published: October 2020

Kenya’s legal system is characterised by a plurality of constitutional norms that are relevant for governing the relationship between the environment and the people. Key among these are the principle of sustainable development (SD) and the human right to a clean and healthy environment (HRHE). Both norms were constitutionalised in 2010, a development that represents what scholars have termed environmental constitutionalism and sustainability constitutionalism, respectively. The constitutionalisation of the principle of SD and the HRHE is a welcome development which has the potential to fill some gaps that existed in the old constitutional arrangement. At the same time, this development is set against a backdrop of critical debates that question their effectiveness in regard to environmental protection. This article demonstrates that the two norms have developed in a manner that is responsive to the salient criticism raised against them. Moreover, courts in Kenya have construed them as complementary norms. Specifically, courts in Kenya have applied the HRHE to clarify the meaning and scope of the environmental prong of SD and construed the duty to pursue ecologically SD (a component of SD) as encompassing the obligation to protect ecological processes that support all life.
Influence of text luminance, text colour and background luminance of variable-message signs on legibility in urban areas at night
Authors: He Y , Li Y , Xing L , Qiu Z , Zhang X
Published: October 2020

Variable-message signs, which are an important type of traffic sign, have been widely used in traffic control. This study examines the influence of text luminance, text colour and background luminance of variable-message signs on legibility in urban areas under night-time vision. First, the background luminance of variable-message signs in typical urban areas is investigated, tested and classified as high, medium or low depending on the obtained values (3.0, 1.0 or 0.1 cd/m2, respectively). Second, a calculation model is established for the experimental visual recognition distance under different visual acuity conditions, the experimental luminance interval is determined based on psychophysical magnitude perceived, and a legibility experiment is performed using Landolt-C rings. Finally, the reasonable luminance interval (minimum [replacement] luminance), optimal luminance and changing trends of luminance for red, green and yellow colours under different background luminances are obtained such that the legibility requirement is satisfied. The results indicated that different colours have different luminance interval and optimal luminance under different background luminances. This study is of great importance in determining the reasonable luminance of variable-message sign texts and improving the safety and efficiency of road traffic. In the future, these research results are expected to serve as guidelines for variable-message sign setup and management.