bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shortened Measurement Time of Functional Visual Acuity for Screening Visual Function
Authors: Hidaka Yuki , Masui Sachiko , Nishi Yasuyo , Ayaki Masahiko , Kaido Minako , Mimura Masaru , Tsubota Kazuo , Negishi Kazuno
Published: September 2019

The functional visual acuity test which is the average of the visual acuities measured during a specific time frame (standard, 60 seconds) has been used recently to assess the visual function in various conditions. The availability of a shorter version of the functional visual acuity test promises to be patient friendly in that it is a simple screening test performed in a shorter period of time than the standard test. The results of measurements of the FVA test between the 30-second measurement time (short-version FVA test) and the standard 60-second measurement are compared, and the feasibility of the short-version FVA test instead of the standard FVA test is investigated. Twenty-eight healthy volunteers (25 men and 3 women) were enrolled in this prospective observational study. All subjects underwent measurement of the binocular distance-corrected visual acuity and the binocular distance-corrected FVA with the 60-second and 30-second measurement times. The interchangeability of the corrected-distance FVA, maximal VA, visual maintenance ratio, and average response time in the short-version and the standard FVA tests was evaluated using the Bland–Altman method, and the results showed agreements of the two tests except for the minimal VA. The short-version FVA test is equivalent to the standard method except for evaluating the visual acuity fluctuations and promises to be a simple visual screening test that can be performed in a shorter time.
Synthetic Sensor Array Training Sets for Neural Networks
Authors: Medina Oded , Yozevitch Roi , Shvalb Nir
Published: September 2019

It is often hard to relate the sensor’s electrical output to the physical scenario when a multidimensional measurement is of interest. An artificial neural network may be a solution. Nevertheless, if the training data set is extracted from a real experimental setup, it can become unreachable in terms of time resources. The same issue arises when the physical measurement is expected to extend across a wide range of values. This paper presents a novel method for overcoming the long training time in a physical experiment set up by bootstrapping a relatively small data set for generating a synthetic data set which can be used for training an artificial neural network. Such a method can be applied to various measurement systems that yield sensor output which combines simultaneous occurrences or wide-range values of physical phenomena of interest. We discuss to which systems our method may be applied. We exemplify our results on three study cases: a seismic sensor array, a linear array of strain gauges, and an optical sensor array. We present the experimental process, its results, and the resulting accuracies.
The State of the Art on Blood MicroRNAs in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Gao Zhuqing , Jiang Wei , Zhang Shutian , Li Peng
Published: September 2019

Despite enormous advances being made in diagnosis and therapeutic interventions, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still recognized as one of the most lethal malignancies. Early diagnosis and timely curative surgery can markedly improve the prognosis; hence, there is an unmet necessity to explore efficient biomarkers for patients’ benefit. Recently, blood miRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to be a novel biomarker in human cancers. Part of it is selectively packaged by plasma exosomes released from cells via exocytosis and is highly sensitive to changes in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, due to less invasiveness and technical availability, miRNA-based liquid biopsy holds promise for further wide usage. Therefore, this review is aimed at presenting an update on the association between blood miRNAs and the biology of PDAC, then discussing its clinical utilization further.
Social Networks, Community Engagement, and Cognitive Impairment among Community-Dwelling Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Li Jinlei , Wang Zijuan , Lian Zhiwei , Zhu Zhikai , Liu Yuanli
Published: September 2019

Aims: To examine the association of social networks and community engagement with cognitive impairment among community-dwelling Chinese older adults. Methods: From November 2017 to May 2018, we selected 1,115 elderly individuals from 3 Chinese communities (Beijing, Hefei, and Lanzhou) using a random-cluster sampling method, and recorded data on demographics, social network characteristics, community activities, and cognitive function. The odds ratios (ORs) of these associations were adjusted for potential confounders in logistic regression models. Results: The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 25.7% (n = 287). An adequate social network (OR 0.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33–0.91) and enough social support from friends (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.29–0.62) were negatively associated with cognitive impairment. Family support was not significantly associated with cognitive impairment (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.34–1.21). Taking part in elderly group travel, communication with others using WeChat, and community activities such as Tai Chi and walking together were negatively associated with cognitive impairment. Conclusion: Social network characteristics and community engagement were found to be related to cognitive function among community-dwelling Chinese elderly adults.
Pediatric Radioulnar Synostosis after Olecranon Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Oguzkaya Sinan , Cakar Burak , Argun Mahmut
Published: September 2019

Radioulnar synostosis which develops after treatment of isolated olecranon fracture is a rare complication. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical findings and postoperative outcomes of radioulnar synostosis after isolated olecranon fracture in a child patient. A 14-year-old girl was evaluated after falling on her left elbow. She had pain, edema, and motion limitation in her left elbow. After radiologic examinations, diagnosis of olecranon fracture was made. Olecranon fracture was fixated by open reduction and internal fixation with tension band wiring method via the posterior approach. When the patient came to the control to remove the implants 9 months after the first operation, there was a limitation in the supination and pronation movements. In the radiographs, synostosis was observed in the proximal region between the radius and ulna. The patient was reoperated to remove the implants. In the same session, synostosis was excised by using the posterior approach, and a barrier between the bones was constituted with bone wax and early elbow range of motion exercises started. In the postoperative first month, the patient had full flexion and extension but with 30 degrees of supination deficit. Radioulnar synostosis is rare but can be seen after isolated olecranon fractures. Early elbow motion after radioulnar synostosis surgery helps the patient to increase joint movement.
Cartas para Nelson
Authors: Badini Giulia Bortoliero Coli
Published: September 2019

Joel Rufino dos Santos escreveu uma série de cartas destinadas ao seu filho Nelson enquanto esteve encarcerado pelo regime militar brasileiro entre 1972 e 1974. Foi de dentro do presídio do Hipódromo que Joel - pai, carioca, historiador, negro e militante - buscou através das correspondências, repletas de sentimentos, cores, lembranças, sonhos e histórias, manter contato com seu filho e estar presente na vida da criança, numa tentativa de superar a distância e a ausência impostas. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar as correspondências enquanto importantes registros de uma memória acerca da ditadura militar e mecanismos de resistência ao regime. Pôde-se então concluir a consolidação tanto de uma memória individual quanto coletiva, bem como da resistência através de mecanismos que garantiram a sobrevivência do preso político e da rede de sociabilidade criada dentro do cárcere. Possibilitou também a apreensão acerca do sistema repressivo consolidado pelo regime militar brasileiro, pensando especificamente na repressão à intelectualidade e aos movimentos negros. Para a compreensão das correspondências, publicadas no livro Quando eu voltei, tive uma surpresa (SANTOS, 2000), foi fundamental a leitura e análise de documentos auxiliares, tais como: entrevista concedia ao Instituto de Estudos Brasileiro de Análises Sociais e Econômicas (SANTOS, 2010), livros da coleção de livros didáticos História Nova do Brasil, volume 1  (SANTOS, 1965) e volume 4 (SANTOS, 1964), os processos de prisão e soltura de Joel Rufino dos Santos – disponíveis para acesso no Arquivo do Estado de São Paulo, e o livro Zumbi (SANTOS, 1987).
O mundo medieval no Brasil do século XXI visto através da série de cartas colecionáveis Dracomania
Authors: Sousa Giovanne Santos de
Published: September 2019

Este artigo tem como fim compreender a forma como elementos do mundo medieval e construções acerca deste, produzidos durante ou após o período, são valorizados e retomados na sociedade brasileira e no imaginário acerca do medievo, e como são materializados em obras iconográficas, e para tal se usará como fonte a série de cartas colecionáveis da Elma Chips intitulada Dracomania. Partindo dos estudos de Jacques Le Goff sobre o imaginário medieval e de José Rivair Macedo sobre os conceitos de "reminiscências medievais" ou “residualidades medievais” e "medievalidade", se buscará analisar como as cartas Dracomania são, por um lado, o resultado de um processo de revivalismo medieval, apresentando personagens que são representadas de acordo com uma Idade Média imaginada, com seres maravilhosos e humanos com aspectos sobrenaturais ou estereotipados, se encaixando no conceito de medievalidade e, por outro, são também o produto do imaginário medieval, criado e reproduzido por meio de suas lendas orais, obras literárias e criações artísticas e que sobreviveram e permanecem como fontes na atualidade.
The Atherosclerosis Risk Variant rs2107595 Mediates Allele-Specific Transcriptional Regulation of
HDAC9
via E2F3 and Rb1
Authors: Prestel Matthias , Prell-Schicker Caroline , Webb Tom , Malik Rainer , Lindner Barbara , Ziesch Natalie , Rex-Haffner Monika , Röh Simone , Viturawong Thanatip , Lehm Manuel , Mokry Michal , den Ruijter Hester , Haitjema Saskia , Asare Yaw , Söllner Flavia , Najafabadi Maryam Ghaderi , Aherrahrou Rédouane , Civelek Mete , Samani Nilesh J. , Mann Matthias , Haffner Christof , Dichgans Martin
Published: September 2019

Background and Purpose—

Genome-wide association studies have identified the
HDAC9
(histone deacetylase 9) gene region as a major risk locus for atherosclerotic stroke and coronary artery disease in humans. Previous results suggest a role of altered
HDAC9
expression levels as the underlying disease mechanism. rs2107595, the lead single nucleotide polymorphism for stroke and coronary artery disease resides in noncoding DNA and colocalizes with histone modification marks suggestive of enhancer elements.

Methods—

To determine the mechanisms by which genetic variation at rs2107595 regulates
HDAC9
expression and thus vascular risk we employed targeted resequencing, proteome-wide search for allele-specific nuclear binding partners, chromatin immunoprecipitation, genome-editing, reporter assays, circularized chromosome conformation capture, and gain- and loss-of-function experiments in cultured human cell lines and primary immune cells.

Results—

Targeted resequencing of the
HDAC9
locus in patients with atherosclerotic stroke and controls supported candidacy of rs2107595 as the causative single nucleotide polymorphism. A proteomic search for nuclear binding partners revealed preferential binding of the E2F3/TFDP1/Rb1 complex (E2F transcription factor 3/transcription factor Dp-1/Retinoblastoma 1) to the rs2107595 common allele, consistent with the disruption of an E2F3 consensus site by the risk allele. Gain- and loss-of-function studies showed a regulatory effect of E2F/Rb proteins on
HDAC9
expression. Compared with the common allele, the rs2107595 risk allele exhibited higher transcriptional capacity in luciferase assays and was associated with higher
HDAC9
mRNA levels in primary macrophages and genome-edited Jurkat cells. Circularized chromosome conformation capture revealed a genomic interaction of the rs2107595 region with the
HDAC9
promoter, which was stronger for the common allele as was the in vivo interaction with E2F3 and Rb1 determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Gain-of-function experiments in isogenic Jurkat cells demonstrated a key role of E2F3 in mediating rs2107595-dependent transcriptional regulation of
HDAC9
.

Conclusions—

Collectively, our findings imply allele-specific transcriptional regulation of
HDAC9
via E2F3 and Rb1 as a major mechanism mediating vascular risk at rs2107595.
Wages Over the Course of Structural Transformation: Evidence from India
Authors: Hasan Rana , Molato Rhea
Published: September 2019

This paper uses labor force survey data from India for 2000 and 2012 to examine how wages behave over the course of structural transformation. We find that wage employment between 2000 and 2012 displays the patterns one would expect for an economy undergoing structural transformation, with employment shares shifting from agriculture to industry and services, and from rural to urban areas and larger cities within urban areas. These shifts, as well as a shift to nonroutine occupations and routine manual occupations outside of agriculture, are associated with an improvement in average wages. Finally, simple Mincerian wage regressions confirm that jobs in larger firms and big cities are associated with significantly higher wages—even more so for women. Overall, our results are consistent with the notion that policies that encourage the expansion of the formal sector and employment in larger firms are crucial for development.
The Cost of Being Under the Weather: Droughts, Floods, and Health-Care Costs in Sri Lanka
Authors: De Alwis Diana , Noy Ilan
Published: September 2019

We measure the impact of extreme weather events—droughts and floods—on health-care utilization and expenditures in Sri Lanka. We find that frequently occurring local floods and droughts impose a significant health risk when individuals are directly exposed to these hazards. Individuals are also at risk when their communities are exposed even if they themselves are unaffected. These impacts, especially the indirect spillover effects to households not directly affected, are associated with land use in affected regions and access to sanitation and hygiene. Finally, both direct and indirect health risks associated with floods and droughts have an economic cost: our estimates suggest that Sri Lanka spends $19 million per year directly on health-care costs associated with floods and droughts. This cost is divided almost equally between the public purse and households, with 83% of it spent on flood-related health care and the rest on drought-related health care. In Sri Lanka, both the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods are likely to increase because of climatic change. Consequently, the health burden associated with these events will likely increase.
Shades of Green: Mapping the Parameters of the GATT Article III:8(a) Government Procurement Derogation in the Renewable Energy Transition
Authors: Fang Mandy Meng
Published: September 2019

The increasingly pervasive use of trade-related supportive measures in the renewable energy sector has created tensions with World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations. This tension has led to a number of disputes, and in so doing became a testing ground for the compatibility between the trade regime and the climate regime. This article adds to the existing literature by focusing on one of the less discussed, but extremely important, WTO provisions relevant in assessing the legality of renewable energy measures: GATT Article III:8(a). Dormant for more than six decades, Article III:8(a) became a focal point of both the Canada – Renewable Energy and India – Solar Cells disputes. The Appellate Body in both disputes interpreted the so-called government ‘procurement derogation’ narrowly and in so doing limited the scope of the provision. This article argues that while the ultimate decision reached by the Appellate Body was correct, its methodological approach was flawed and could render the provision inapplicable even in scenarios where the measures are unquestionably government procurement. Instead, this article argues that the methodological approach used by the Panel in Canada – Renewable Energy is preferable and more in line with the textual meaning of Article III:8(a).
The damselfly genus Mecistogaster (Odonata: Pseudostigmatidae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest with a description of three new species and a neotype designation for M. amalia (Burmeister, 1839)
Authors: LACERDA DÉBORAH S. SOLDATI , MACHADO ANGELO B. MONTEIRO
Published: September 2019

Mecistogaster Rambur, 1842 is a genus of Pseudostigmatidae with five species distributed from Mexico to Argentina. Four of these occur in Brazil, two of which were recorded on the Atlantic Forest, M. amalia (Burmeister, 1839) and M. linearis (Fabricius, 1776). After examining 140 specimens of Mecistogaster amalia it was possible to conclude that it is a complex of species and three new species are described, M. kesselringi sp. nov., M. mielkei sp. nov. and M. nordestina sp. nov. The males differ from each other mainly by the presence or absence of alula, the area occupied by the reddish-brown color of the mesepimeron and penis structure. The females differ mainly by the region occupied for the pale apical area of wing and epiproct shape. The problem of Burmeister’s type of M. amalia is discussed and a neotype is erected for it. Distribution and phenology data are provided. A key for males recorded from Brazilian Atlantic Forest is presented.
Merothrips meridionalis sp.n. (Thysanoptera: Merothripidae), a new fungivorous species from subtropical South America
Authors: CAVALLERI ADRIANO , LINDNER MARIANA FLORES , O’DONNELL CHERYLE A.
Published: September 2019

We here describe Merothrips meridionalis sp.n. based on specimens originally treated by J.D. Hood as an apterous form of M. mirus. The available data on the distribution of this new species suggest that it is widespread through Brazil, living in sympatry with M. floridensis, M. mirus and M. tympanis. However, the distribution of this new species is possibly further south than other Merothripidae species recorded from South America.
The COSMIC/FORMOSAT-3 Radio Occultation Mission after 12 Years: Accomplishments, Remaining Challenges, and Potential Impacts of COSMIC-2
Authors: Ho Shu-peng , Anthes Richard A. , Ao Chi O. , Healy Sean , Horanyi Andras , Hunt Douglas , Mannucci Anthony J. , Pedatella Nicholas , Randel William J. , Simmons Adrian , Steiner Andrea , Xie Feiqin , Yue Xinan , Zeng Zhen
Published: September 2019

Launched in 2006, the Formosa Satellite Mission 3–Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere and Climate (FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC) was the first constellation of microsatellites carrying global positioning system (GPS) radio occultation (RO) receivers. Radio occultation is an active remote sensing technique that provides valuable information on the vertical variations of electron density in the ionosphere, and temperature, pressure, and water vapor in the stratosphere and troposphere. COSMIC has demonstrated the great value of RO data in ionosphere, climate, and meteorological research and operational weather forecasting. However, there are still challenges using RO data, particularly in the moist lower troposphere and upper stratosphere. A COSMIC follow-on constellation, COSMIC-2, was launched into equatorial orbit in 2019. With increased signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) from improved receivers and digital beam steering antennas, COSMIC-2 will produce at least 5,000 high-quality RO profiles daily in the tropics and subtropics. In this paper, we summarize 1) recent (since 2011 when the last review was published) contributions of COSMIC and other RO observations to weather, climate, and space weather science; 2) the remaining challenges in RO applications; and 3) potential contributions to research and operations of COSMIC-2.
Enhancing ACIS Maps: Increasing Usability through a GIS Portal
Authors: Umphlett Natalie A. , Pettee Warren , Sorensen William , Stiles Crystal J.
Published: September 2019

Since 2003, the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC) has been producing the Applied Climate Information System (ACIS) Climate Summary Maps for users all across the country. The maps allow users to quickly and easily assess climate conditions for various time scales that range from weeks to months to years, as well as spatial scales varying from state to regional and national levels. Although popular among the climate and drought monitoring community, the maps are utilized by a number of sectors, including academia, agriculture, government, resource management, and utilities. Over the years, the HPRCC has received a number of requests from users looking to customize and enhance the ACIS Climate Summary Maps. With funding provided by the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), the Center is now able to produce and distribute GIS versions of the ACIS Climate Summary Maps. Maps in GIS formats help to meet user needs by allowing them the opportunity to create custom color scales, choose specific regions, and combine information from various sources with the data available in the mapped products. The GIS data are available via a GIS Portal and GeoServer, which are accessible from the HPRCC website.
Epidemiology of alcohol-related accidental death in Tokyo Metropolitan area (2015)
Authors: Suzuki Hideto , Tanifuji Takanobu , Kimura Satoko , Fukunaga Tatsushige
Published: September 2019

Background

Alcohol consumption may be a risk factor for accidental deaths; however, characteristics of alcohol-related deaths are unclear. We investigated characteristics of alcohol-related accidental deaths to facilitate target strategies.

Methods

In this article, 1060 cases of accidental deaths examined by the Tokyo Medical Examiner’s Office (2015) were divided into two groups: deceased individuals who drank alcohol (alcohol; n = 212) and those who did not (control; n = 848). Age, sex, alcohol consumption patterns, and manners/causes of deaths were compared. Places where individuals in the alcohol group met with an accident, and their blood alcohol concentration was assessed.

Results

Lower mean age (60.5 vs. 73.7 years) and a higher male ratio (75.9% vs. 58.5%) were observed in the alcohol group. Daily alcohol consumption was more common in the alcohol group (70.8% vs. 13.4%). Falling was the leading cause of death in the alcohol group, but without a significant difference (alcohol: 31.6%, control: 30.4%). Incidence rates of drowning (22.2% vs. 7.9%) and poisoning (11.3% vs. 2.0%) were significantly higher in the alcohol group. The mean blood alcohol concentration was 1.6 mg/mL. Of the total alcohol-related accidents, 60.8% occurred at home. Falling down the stairs was the primary type of falling, and majority of drownings occurred in a bathtub.

Conclusion

Male habitual drinkers (middle-aged to older adults) should be targeted to prevent alcohol-related accidental deaths. More than 50% of deaths occurred at home and care should be taken when performing daily activities, including using stairs and while bathing.
Only One Moment in Time? Investigating the Dynamic Relationship of Emotions and Attention Toward Political Information With Mobile Experience Sampling
Authors: Otto Lukas P. , Thomas Fabian , Maier Michaela , Ottenstein Charlotte
Published: September 2019

This article attempts to (a) investigate the relationship between distinct emotional reactions toward political information and attention toward political news and (b) analyze whether this relationship is dynamic. We use an experience sampling design to assess recipients’ immediate emotional reactions and attention toward news. Participants reported their emotional reactions (anger, fear, happiness, contentment) and attentional focus directly after following a news item for eight days in a row up to five times a day via smartphone. Results indicate that anger is positively and fear negatively correlated with attention toward political news. For positive emotional reactions, happiness is not correlated with attention to news, while contentment is negatively correlated with attention and also shows a negative lagged effect on attention at a later point in time. The study shows promising ways to assess and analyze dynamic processes in everyday media consumption.
Book review: Suraj Bhan Bhardwaj, Contestations and Accommodations: Mewat and Meos in Mughal India
Authors: Talbot Cynthia
Published: September 2019

Suraj Bhan Bhardwaj, Contestations and Accommodations: Mewat and Meos in Mughal India, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2016, 304 pp., ₹850. ISBN: 9780199462797.
Validity and reliability of Food–Mood Questionnaire (FMQ)
Authors: Begdache Lina , Marhaba Rani , Chaar Maher
Published: September 2019

Background:

The need for short and validated questionnaires to evaluate dietary patterns (DPs) and mental distress in clinical and research settings is increasing.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a Food–Mood Questionnaire (FMQ) to assess DPs in relation to mental distress.

Method:

A standard validation protocol that included item development, pilot–testing, test–retesting, and a series of statistical validation analyses was used. Content, face, internal, construct and external validity as well as reliability were confirmed. Content and face validity were evaluated qualitatively.

Results:

Principal component analysis (PCA) for construct validity generated five sub-scales which reflected internal consistency (Cronbach’s α > 0.70) and internal reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient ranged between 0.619 and 0.884; p < 0.01; confidence interval 95%). External validity was also confirmed. A total of 563 participants from four different continents completed the survey online. PCA generated five different subscales. Mental distress was associated with regular consumption of fast-food, a DP known to induce anxiety and depression.

Conclusion:

The FMQ is a validated and a reliable tool with many potential applications that could be used with prophylactic and therapeutic approaches.
Novel surgical technique and efficacy analysis of donor pancreas preparation without vascular reconstruction in pancreas transplantation
Authors: Liao Wen-wei , Ling Xiang-chao , Zhang Cheng , Liu Fu-rong , Zhu Xiao-feng , He Xiao-shun , Hu An-bin
Published: September 2019

Objective

Because of the complicated blood supply and vascular structure of the pancreas, blood vessel reconstruction and reshaping are generally required during pancreas transplantation. We modified the vascular preparation procedure for the donor pancreas (i.e., no vascular reconstruction was performed) based on experiences in our department and in other domestic and international transplantation centers.

Methods

Twelve donor pancreas preparations without vascular reconstruction were performed. The patch (Carrel patch), celiac trunk, and superior mesenteric artery were preserved as arterial inflow channels for the donor pancreas. The common hepatic artery and the gastroduodenal artery were transected at a site 0.5 cm away from the bifurcation. The bifurcated portion was preserved for the donor liver. The stumps of the gastroduodenal artery and common hepatic artery were then ligated. The portal vein was transected in the middle of the hepatoduodenal ligament during separation of the liver and pancreas. The partial portal vein preserved with the pancreas was used as the outflow channel of the donor pancreas.

Results

The transplanted pancreas functioned well in the recipients, and no vascular complications were reported.

Conclusion

The overall efficacy of pancreas transplantation without vascular reconstruction has been improved.
A hybrid-fuzzy segmentation analysis of residents’ perception towards tourism in Gran Canaria
Authors: Martín Juan Carlos , Moreira Pedro , Román Concepción
Published: September 2019

Tourist destinations have evolved throughout the world because governments invest on developing a tourist sector. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life of the local residents. For this reason, the impacts of tourism, both positive and negative, need to be measured from the local residents’ perspective. This study segments local residents according to their perception on tourism. A hybrid fuzzy segmentation method was applied to a sample of 504 local residents in Gran Canaria. Three representative profiles are obtained for two scenarios: (1) extreme tourist lovers, extreme tourist haters and ambivalents and (2) lovers, haters and ambivalents. Contributions to the body of knowledge and policy implications are discussed. A future research agenda is given.
Vector-Space Models of Semantic Representation From a Cognitive Perspective: A Discussion of Common Misconceptions
Authors: Günther Fritz , Rinaldi Luca , Marelli Marco
Published: September 2019

Models that represent meaning as high-dimensional numerical vectors—such as latent semantic analysis (LSA), hyperspace analogue to language (HAL), bound encoding of the aggregate language environment (BEAGLE), topic models, global vectors (GloVe), and word2vec—have been introduced as extremely powerful machine-learning proxies for human semantic representations and have seen an explosive rise in popularity over the past 2 decades. However, despite their considerable advancements and spread in the cognitive sciences, one can observe problems associated with the adequate presentation and understanding of some of their features. Indeed, when these models are examined from a cognitive perspective, a number of unfounded arguments tend to appear in the psychological literature. In this article, we review the most common of these arguments and discuss (a) what exactly these models represent at the implementational level and their plausibility as a cognitive theory, (b) how they deal with various aspects of meaning such as polysemy or compositionality, and (c) how they relate to the debate on embodied and grounded cognition. We identify common misconceptions that arise as a result of incomplete descriptions, outdated arguments, and unclear distinctions between theory and implementation of the models. We clarify and amend these points to provide a theoretical basis for future research and discussions on vector models of semantic representation.
Surgical treatment of trapezius palsy: A systematic review
Authors: Elsawi Rawaan S , Vancolen Seline Y , Horner Nolan S , Khan Moin , Alolabi Bashar
Published: September 2019

Background

Trapezius palsy results from injury to the spinal accessory nerve. The condition presents with loss of shoulder abduction, pain, and winging of the scapula. Surgical treatment may improve functional outcomes and quality of life.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to report and evaluate the clinical outcomes following surgical management of trapezius palsy.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

The electronic databases EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed were searched for studies and relevant data were abstracted. Only studies reporting on outcomes after the surgical treatments of trapezius palsy were included.

Results

A total of 10 studies including 192 patients were included in this review. All surgical interventions resulted in improved function and pain reduction. Patients reported high satisfaction (90–92%) following nerve reconstruction or the Eden–Lange procedure, in comparison to neurolysis. The most common procedure reported was the Eden–Lange muscle transfer (32% reported cases) demonstrating the highest patient satisfaction rates with low complication rate of 7.7%.

Conclusion

Patients failing conservative treatment report good outcomes following surgical treatment of trapezius palsy. All reported surgical procedures demonstrate reduction in pain the best results from the Eden–Lange muscle transfer. Further high-quality comparative studies are required to make definitive conclusions regarding the comparative efficacy of each surgical procedure.
Mitigation of T-cell dependent immunogenicity by reengineering factor VIIa analogue
Authors: Jankowski Wojciech , McGill Joseph , Lagassé H. A. Daniel , Surov Stepan , Bembridge Gary , Bunce Campbell , Cloake Edward , Fogg Mark H. , Jankowska Katarzyna I. , Khan Abdul , Marcotrigiano Joseph , Ovanesov Mikhail V. , Sauna Zuben E.
Published: September 2019

Vatreptacog alfa (VA), a recombinant activated human factor VII (rFVIIa) variant with 3 amino acid substitutions, was developed to provide increased procoagulant activity in hemophilia patients with inhibitors to factor VIII or factor IX. In phase 3 clinical trials, changes introduced during the bioengineering of VA resulted in the development of undesired anti-drug antibodies in some patients, leading to the termination of a potentially promising therapeutic protein product. Here, we use preclinical biomarkers associated with clinical immunogenicity to validate our deimmunization strategy applied to this bioengineered rFVIIa analog. The reengineered rFVIIa analog variants retained increased intrinsic thrombin generation activity but did not elicit T-cell responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from 50 HLA typed subjects representing the human population. Our algorithm, rational immunogenicity determination, offers a broadly applicable deimmunizing strategy for bioengineered proteins.
Immunoadsorption and autologous transplantation for life-threatening primary antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Angelillo-Scherrer Anne , Mansouri Taleghani Behrouz , Förger Frauke , Baerlocher Gabriela M. , Pabst Thomas , Pöllinger Alexander , Banz Yara , Geiser Thomas , Kremer Hovinga Johanna A. , Rovó Alicia
Published: September 2019

Key Points

Reduction of APL antibodies by immunoadsorption may be a lifesaving therapy for the management of DAH with high titer of APL antibodies. Autologous HSCT may be a valid treatment option in patients with primary APS and no response to standard immunosuppressive therapy.
Reduction in the utilization of prednisone or methotrexate in Canadian claims data following initiation of etanercept in pediatric patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Khraishi Majed , Millson Brad , Woolcott John , Jones Heather , Marshall Lisa , Ruperto Nicolino
Published: September 2019

Background

In adult patients with arthritis, use of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor etanercept (ETN) is often associated with a reduction in the utilization of co-medications, particularly steroids. Comparatively little is known about the utilization of co-medications when ETN is initiated in pediatric patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

This study analyzed Canadian longitudinal claims level data spanning January 2007 to April 2017. Data were collated from the IQVIA Private Drug Plan, Ontario Public Drug Plan, and the Quebec Public Drug Plan (Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec) databases. Patients < 18 years of age were indexed when filling a prescription for ETN between January 2008 and January 2016. Those who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were assessed for methotrexate (MTX), and prednisone (PRD) use in the 6 months prior to and 12 months following initiation of ETN.

Results

Longitudinal claims data for 330 biologic-naive pediatric patients initiating ETN therapy were included. The majority of patients were female (67%), aged 10–17 years (64%), and with a drug history consistent with JIA (96%). Most patients were from Quebec (36%) or Ontario (33%). Dosing of ETN was weight-based with a mean dosage over the first year of 31 mg per week. ETN dosing was relatively consistent over the first year. In total, 222 (67%) patients did not use MTX and 223 (68%) did not use PRD before or after starting ETN. A total of 17% (18/103) of MTX-treated and 50% (46/92) of PRD-treated patients discontinued use of those medications upon initiation of ETN treatment. In patients continuing MTX or PRD, significant reductions in the weekly dosage from 14.3 to 6.8 mg per week for MTX and from 56 to 23 mg per week for PRD were observed (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study of Canadian claims-level data is the first large prespecified analysis of co-medication utilization following the initiation of ETN therapy in pediatric patients. A decline in both MTX and PRD use and dosage was observed and may be associated with benefits related to safety, tolerability, and overall healthcare costs.
Postpartum depression and associated factors among mothers in Bahir Dar Town, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Amsale , Tesfaw Getachew , Mulat Haregewoine , Hibdye Getahun , Yohannes kalkidan
Published: September 2019

Background

Postpartum depressive symptoms are the occurrence of major depressive episode within 4 weeks following delivery. Globally, 10%–20% of mothers suffer from depressive symptoms during their postpartum course. Therefore, assessing postpartum depressive symptoms has a pivotal role in ensuring that their mental health needs are met.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted including 511 mothers coming for postnatal care service in public health centers in Bahir Dar Town. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured, and interviewer-administered questionnaire, while the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to assess individuals’ depressive symptoms. The systematic random sampling technique was employed to recruit the study participants. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to declare the statistical significance of the factors.

Results

Postpartum depressive symptoms among mothers were found to be 22.1 (95%, CI 18.6%, 25.8%). In multivariate logistic regression, stressful life events (AOR = 4.46, 95% CI 2.64, 7.54), domestic decision making (AOR = 4.26, 95% CI 2.54, 7.14), unplanned pregnancy (AOR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.02, 3.41), partner violence (AOR = 3.16, 95% CI 1.76, 5.67), and hospitalization of their babies (AOR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.17, 4.310) were factors significantly associated with postpartum depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Postpartum depressive symptoms among mothers were common in the study area. Stressful life events, lack of empowerment in domestic decision making, intimate partner violence, unplanned pregnancy, and hospitalization of their baby were factors significantly associated with postpartum depression. The Ministry of Health needs to give training on how to screen postpartum depressive symptoms among mothers, and interventions that would address the above factors would benefit in tackling further complications.
Mental health problems of children and adolescents, with and without migration background, living in Vienna, Austria
Authors: Gutmann Maria Teresa , Aysel Metin , Özlü-Erkilic Zeliha , Popow Christian , Akkaya-Kalayci Türkan
Published: September 2019

Background

Compared to their indigenous peers, migrant children and adolescents are at increased risk for mental health problems. The aim of our study was to compare psychological disorders of children and adolescents with Turkish migration background and their native Austrian peers.

Methods

We analysed 302 children and adolescents aged between 7 and 18 years. The sample consisted of 100 Austrian and 100 Turkish outpatients with mental health problems, and 102 healthy controls, 52 with Austrian and 50 with Turkish background, recruited from various Viennese local child and youth centres.

Results

Native patients had more frequently externalizing problems (42.1%) compared to the Turkish-speaking sample (28%). However, in the control group, Turkish-speaking children and adolescents had higher levels of internalizing, depressive and anxiety symptoms compared to their native peers.

Conclusions

We found noticeable differences in psychological problems among children and adolescents with and without migration background. We assume that migration-related stress factors are responsible for these differences. Also, children and adolescents with migration background seek for psychological help less frequently than their indigenous peers.
Chemical modification of Bombyx mori silk fibers with vinyl groups for thiol-ene click chemistry
Authors: Zhang Xiaoning , Liang Jianwei , Chen Zhenyu , Donley Carrie , Liu Yuling , Cheng Guotao
Published: September 2019

Natural Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) fibers were modified with 2-methacryloyloxyethyl isocyanate (MOI) first for the introduction of vinyl groups. Then, 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecanethiol was grafted onto the SF fibers via thiol-ene click chemistry using ultraviolet light. The formations of MOI-modified and PFDT-grafted SF fibers were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. The morphology of samples was also revealed by a scanning electron microscope. In addition, differential scanning calorimetry results demonstrated that SF fibers did not show significant change in thermal behavior, regardless of the chemical modification. To confirm the cytotoxicity of the prepared SF fibers, MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay was performed, and no toxicity was observed with PFDT-grafted SF fibers. The results also showed that PFDT-grafted SF fibers exhibited good antifouling properties when Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) was selected as a model for algal cells adhesion experiment.
Preventive efficacy of oral moxidectin at various doses and dosage regimens against macrocyclic lactone-resistant heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) strains in dogs
Authors: McTier Tom L. , Six Robert H. , Pullins Aleah , Chapin Sara , Kryda Kristina , Mahabir Sean P. , Woods Debra J. , Maeder Steven J.
Published: September 2019

Background

Moxidectin has previously shown limited efficacy (≤ 44.4%) against confirmed macrocyclic lactone (ML)-resistant Dirofilaria immitis strains at 3 µg/kg after single and multiple oral dosages. Three studies were conducted to evaluate higher oral moxidectin doses for efficacy against confirmed ML-resistant D. immitis strains.

Methods

Dogs were inoculated with 50 D. immitis L3 and randomly allocated to treatments. Study 1: 6 groups of dogs (n = 8) were inoculated with JYD-34 (Day − 30) and treated as follows: T01, negative control; T02–T05, moxidectin at 3, 6, 12 or 24 µg/kg, respectively, on Day 0 only; T06, moxidectin at 3 µg/kg on Days 0, 30 and 60. Study 2: 10 groups of dogs (n = 5) were inoculated (Day − 30) with either JYD-34 (T01, T03–05) or ZoeLA (T02, T06–T10) and treated as follows: T01 and T02, negative controls; T03–T05, moxidectin at 24, 40 or 60 µg/kg, respectively, on Days 0, 28 and 56; T06 and T09, moxidectin at 3 or 60 µg/kg on Day 0 only; T07, T08 and T10, moxidectin at 24, 40 or 60 µg/kg, respectively, on Days 0, 28 and 56. Study 3: 5 groups of dogs (n = 5) were inoculated with ZoeMO (Day − 28) and treated as follows: T01, negative control; T02, moxidectin at 3 µg/kg moxidectin on Day 0 only; T03–T05, moxidectin at 24, 40 or 60 µg/kg, respectively, on Days 0, 28 and 56. All dogs were necropsied for adult heartworm recovery ~ 4–5 months post-inoculation.

Results

All moxidectin-treated dogs showed significantly lower worm counts than controls. The efficacy of moxidectin administered once at 3 µg/kg was 19% (JYD-34), 44.4% (ZoeLA) and 82.1% (ZoeMO). Increasing both the dose and the number of dosages of moxidectin improved efficacy, with 100% protection obtained using three dosages of moxidectin at either 40 µg/kg (JYD-34, ZoeMO) or 60 µg/kg (ZoeLA). Three dosages of 24 µg/kg were also highly effective, providing ≥ 98.8% efficacy for all three strains.

Conclusions

Increasing both the dose and number of consecutive monthly dosages of moxidectin improved the efficacy against ML-resistant heartworms. Based on these data and other technical considerations, the 24 µg/kg dose was considered the optimal dose for further commercial development.
The balance model for teaching linear equations: a systematic literature review
Authors: Otten Mara , Van den Heuvel-Panhuizen Marja , Veldhuis Michiel
Published: September 2019

This paper reports a systematic literature review of the balance model, an often-used aid to teach linear equations. The purpose of the review was to reportwhysuch a model is used,whattypes of models are used, andwhenthey are used. In total, 34 peer-reviewed journal articles were analyzed, resulting in a comprehensive overview of described rationales for using the balance model, its appearances, situations in which it was used, and the gained learning outcomes. Some trends appeared about how rationales, appearances, situations, and learning outcomes are related. However, a clear pattern could not be identified. Our study shows that this seemingly simple model actually is a rather complex didactic tool of which in-depth knowledge is lacking. Further systematic research is needed for making informed instructional decisions on when and how balance models can be used effectively for teaching linear equation solving.
Optimized sampling protocol for mass spectrometry-based metabolomics in Streptomyces
Authors: Liu Xiaoyun , Wang Tong , Sun Xiaojuan , Wang Zejian , Tian Xiwei , Zhuang Yingping , Chu Ju
Published: September 2019

In quantitative metabolomics studies, the most crucial step was arresting snapshots of all interesting metabolites. However, the procedure customized for Streptomyces was so rare that most studies consulted the procedure from other bacteria even yeast, leading to inaccurate and unreliable metabolomics analysis. In this study, a base solution (acetone: ethanol = 1:1, mol/mol) was added to a quenching solution to keep the integrity of the cell membrane. Based on the molar transition energy (ET) of the organic solvents, five solutions were used to carry out the quenching procedures. These were acetone, isoamylol, propanol, methanol, and 60% (v/v) methanol. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report which has utilized a quenching solution with ET values. Three procedures were also adopted for extraction. These were boiling, freezing–thawing, and grinding ethanol. Following the analysis of the mass balance, amino acids, organic acids, phosphate sugars, and sugar alcohols were measured using gas chromatography with an isotope dilution mass spectrometry. It was found that using isoamylol with a base solution (5:1, v/v) as a quenching solution and that freezing–thawing in liquid nitrogen within 50% (v/v) methanol as an extracting procedure were the best pairing for the quantitative metabolomics of Streptomyces ZYJ-6, and resulted in average recoveries of close to 100%. The concentration of intracellular metabolites obtained from this new quenching solution was between two and ten times higher than that from 60% (v/v) methanol, which until now has been the most commonly used solution. Our findings are the first systematic quantitative metabolomics tools for Streptomyces ZYJ-6 and, therefore, will be important references for research in fields such as 13C based metabolic flux analysis, multi-omic research and genome-scale metabolic model establishment, as well as for other Streptomyces.