bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Low-dose and Standard-dose Aspirin on PGE2 Biosynthesis Among Individuals with Colorectal Adenomas: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Drew David A. , Schuck Madeline M. , Magicheva-Gupta Marina V. , Stewart Kathleen O. , Gilpin Katherine K. , Miller Patrick , Parziale Melanie P. , Pond Emily N. , Takacsi-Nagy Oliver , Zerjav Dylan C. , Chin Samantha M. , Mackinnon Krems Jennifer , Meixell Dana , Joshi Amit D. , Ma Wenjie , Colizzo Francis P. , Carolan Peter J. , Nishioka Norman S. , Staller Kyle , Richter James M. , Khalili Hamed , Gala Manish K. , Garber John J. , Chung Daniel C. , Yarze Joseph C. , Zukerberg Lawrence , Petrucci Giovanna , Rocca Bianca , Patrono Carlo , Milne Ginger L. , Wang Molin , Chan Andrew T.
Published: July 2020

Low-dose aspirin is recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for primary prevention of colorectal cancer in certain individuals. However, broader implementation will require improved precision prevention approaches to identify those most likely to benefit. The major urinary metabolite of PGE2, 11α-hydroxy-9,15-dioxo-2,3,4,5-tetranor-prostane-1,20-dioic acid (PGE-M), is a biomarker for colorectal cancer risk, but it is unknown whether PGE-M is modifiable by aspirin in individuals at risk for colorectal cancer. Adults (N = 180) who recently underwent adenoma resection and did not regularly use aspirin or NSAIDs were recruited to a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of aspirin at 81 or 325 mg/day for 8–12 weeks. The primary outcome was postintervention change in urinary PGE-M as measured by LC/MS. A total of 169 participants provided paired urine samples for analysis. Baseline PGE-M excretion was 15.9 ± 14.6 (mean ± S.D, ng/mg creatinine). Aspirin significantly reduced PGE-M excretion (−4.7 ± 14.8) compared with no decrease (0.8 ± 11.8) in the placebo group (P = 0.015; mean duration of treatment = 68.9 days). Aspirin significantly reduced PGE-M levels in participants receiving either 81 (−15%; P = 0.018) or 325 mg/day (−28%; P < 0.0001) compared with placebo. In 40% and 50% of the individuals randomized to 81 or 325 mg/day aspirin, respectively, PGE-M reduction reached a threshold expected to prevent recurrence in 10% of individuals. These results support that aspirin significantly reduces elevated levels of PGE-M in those at increased colorectal cancer risk to levels consistent with lower risk for recurrent neoplasia and underscore the potential utility of PGE-M as a precision chemoprevention biomarker. The ASPIRED trial is registered as NCT02394769.
Critical Coarctation of the Aorta in Selective Fetal Growth Restriction and the Role of Coronary Stent Implantation
Authors: Gijtenbeek Manon , Haak Monique C. , ten Harkel Arend D.J. , Bökenkamp Regina , Eyskens Benedicte , Ortibus Els , Meyns Bart , Gewillig Marc , Lewi Liesbeth
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Monochorionic twins are at increased risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs). Up to 26% have a birth weight <1,500 g, a CHD requiring neonatal surgery, therefore, poses particular challenges. Objective: The aim of the study was to describe pregnancy characteristics, perinatal management, and outcome of monochorionic twins diagnosed with critical coarctation of the aorta (CoA). Methods: We included monochorionic twins diagnosed with critical CoA (2010–2019) at 2 tertiary referral centers, and we systematically reviewed the literature regarding CoA in monochorionic twins. Results: Seven neonates were included. All were the smaller twin of pregnancies complicated by selective fetal growth restriction. The median gestational age at birth was 32 weeks (28–34). Birth weight of affected twins ranged as 670–1,800 g. One neonate underwent coarctectomy at the age of 1 month (2,330 g). Six underwent stent implantation, performed between day 8 and 40, followed by definitive coarctectomy between 4 and 9 months in 4. All 7 developed normally, except for 1 child with neurodevelopmental delay. Three co-twins had pulmonary stenosis, of whom 1 required balloon valvuloplasty. The literature review revealed 10 cases of CoA, all in the smaller twin. Six cases detected in the first weeks after birth were treated with prostaglandins alone, by repeated transcatheter angioplasty or by surgical repair, with good outcome in 2 out of 6. Conclusions: CoA specifically affects the smaller twin of growth discordant monochorionic twin pairs. Stent implantation is a feasible bridging therapy to surgery in these low birth weight neonates.
Improving the Quality of Bowel Preparation: Rewarding Patients for Success or Intensive Patient Education?
Authors: Kutyla Marguerite J. , Gray Marcus A. , von Hippel Courtney , Hourigan Luke F. , Kendall Bradley J. , Whaley Amanda J. , O’Connor Sam , Holtmann Gerald J.
Published: July 2020

Introduction and Objectives: The quality of the bowel preparation is a critical parameter for the outcome of colonoscopies. It is well established that the bowel preparation modality (e.g., split or larger volume preparation) significantly improves the quality of the bowel preparation. Patient compliance is another important factor impacting on the quality of bowel preparations that receives relatively little research attention. We aimed to explore if intensified education or a lottery ticket as reward for good bowel preparation could improve outcomes. Methods: After informed consent, all patients received a standardized printed information booklet. In a randomized fashion, patients were offered (a) a lottery scratchy ticket with an opportunity to win $25,000 as “reward” for good bowel preparation, (b) an education session delivered over the phone by a trained nurse, or (c) no additional measure. Results: Overall, the quality of the bowel preparation was rated good or very good in 69.1% (95% CI 61.7–75.7%) of patients. Reward intervention did not influence the quality of bowel preparation (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.09–1.91, p = 0.260); however, bowel preparation quality decreased in patients randomized to receive the additional education (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.08–0.96, p = 0.042). Neither intervention significantly impacted on polyp detection rates. Conclusions: Contrasting general beliefs, additional interventions (e.g., incentives or phone consultation) did not improve the quality of the bowel preparation. The unexpected result shows that utilizing extra resources must be balanced against real-world outcomes and may not always provide the expected result.
Oral 15-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid Induces Pulmonary Hypertension in Mice by Triggering T Cell–Dependent Endothelial Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Ruffenach Grégoire , O’Connor Ellen , Vaillancourt Mylène , Hong Jason , Cao Nancy , Sarji Shervin , Moazeni Shayan , Papesh Jeremy , Grijalva Victor , Cunningham Christine M. , Shu Le , Chattopadhyay Arnab , Tiwari Shuchita , Mercier Olaf , Perros Frédéric , Umar Soban , Yang Xia , Gomes Aldrin V. , Fogelman Alan M. , Reddy Srinivasa T. , Eghbali Mansoureh
Published: July 2020

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a fatal disease characterized by increased mean pulmonary arterial pressure. Elevated plasma and lung concentrations of oxidized lipids, including 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE), have been demonstrated in patients with PAH and animal models. We previously demonstrated that feeding mice with 15-HETE is sufficient to induce pulmonary hypertension, but the mechanisms remain unknown. RNA sequencing data from the mouse lungs on 15-HETE diet revealed significant activation of pathways involved in both antigen processing and presentation and T cell–mediated cytotoxicity. Analysis of human microarray from patients with PAH also identified activation of identical pathways compared with controls. We show that in both 15-HETE–fed mice and patients with PAH, expression of the immunoproteasome subunit 5 is significantly increased, which was concomitant with an increase in the number of CD8/CD69 (cluster of differentiation 8 / cluster of differentiation 69) double-positive cells, as well as pulmonary arterial endothelial cell apoptosis in mice. Human pulmonary arterial endothelial cells cultured with 15-HETE were more prone to apoptosis when exposed to CD8 cells. Cultured intestinal epithelial cells secreted more oxidized lipids in response to 15-HETE, which is consistent with accumulation of circulating oxidized lipids in 15-HETE–fed mice. Administration of an apoA-I (apolipoprotein A-I) mimetic peptide, Tg6F (transgenic 6F), which is known to prevent accumulation of circulating oxidized lipids, not only inhibited pulmonary arterial endothelial cell apoptosis but also prevented and rescued 15-HETE–induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. In conclusion, our results suggest that (1) 15-HETE diet induces pulmonary hypertension by a mechanism that involves oxidized lipid-mediated T cell–dependent pulmonary arterial endothelial cell apoptosis and (2) Tg6F administration may be a novel therapy for treating PAH.
A new species and a new variety of Radula Dumort. (Radulaceae, Marchantiophyta) from Brazil

Authors: OLIVEIRA-DA-SILVA FUVIO RUBENS , GRADSTEIN S. ROBBERT , ILKIU-BORGES ANNA LUIZA
Published: July 2020

In the course of a taxonomic study of Radula in Brazil, a new species from Bahia and a new variety of R. fendleri from Rio de Janeiro were detected. The new species is characterized by plants irregularly pinnate, leaves oblong-ovate with entire to sinuate margins, cell walls with small trigones at leaf base and midleaf, increasing in size toward the leaf margins, and lobules distant to subimbricate with a rounded base, covering 2/3 to fully overlapping the stem. The new variety differs from the type variety by plants paroicous, leaf cells with trigones small or lacking, and absence of caducous leaves. A full description and illustration of the new taxa as well as comments on morphology, taxonomy, and distribution are provided.
The Meridional Shift of the Midlatitude Westerlies over Arid Central Asia during the Past 21 000 Years Based on the TraCE-21ka Simulations
Authors: Jiang Nanxuan , Yan Qing , Xu Zhiqing , Shi Jian , Zhang Ran
Published: July 2020

To advance our knowledge of the response of midlatitude westerlies to various external forcings, we investigate the meridional shift of midlatitude westerlies over arid central Asia (ACA) during the past 21 000 years, which experienced more varied forcings than the present day based on a set of transient simulations. Our results suggest that the evolution of midlatitude westerlies over ACA and driving factors vary with time and across seasons. In spring, the location of midlatitude westerlies over ACA oscillates largely during the last deglaciation, driven by meltwater fluxes and continental ice sheets, and then shows a long-term equatorward shift during the Holocene controlled by orbital insolation. In summer, orbital insolation dominates the meridional shift of midlatitude westerlies, with poleward and equatorward migration during the last deglaciation and the Holocene, respectively. From a thermodynamic perspective, variations in zonal winds are linked with the meridional temperature gradient based on the thermal wind relationship. From a dynamic perspective, variations in midlatitude westerlies are mainly induced by anomalous sea surface temperatures over the Indian Ocean through the Matsuno–Gill response and over the North Atlantic Ocean by the propagation of Rossby waves, or both, but their relative importance varies across forcings. Additionally, the modeled meridional shift of midlatitude westerlies is broadly consistent with geological evidence, although model–data discrepancies still exist. Overall, our study provides a possible scenario for a meridional shift of midlatitude westerlies over ACA in response to various external forcings during the past 21 000 years and highlights important roles of both the Indian Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean in regulating Asian westerlies, which may shed light on the behavior of westerlies in the future.
Spatial Patterns of Human Thermal Comfort Conditions in Russia: Present Climate and Trends
Authors: Varentsov Mikhail , Shartova Natalia , Grischenko Mikhail , Konstantinov Pavel
Published: July 2020

The assessment of bioclimatic conditions at the national scale remains a highly relevant task. It might be one of the main parts of the national strategy for the sustainable development of different regions under changing climatic conditions. This study evaluated the thermal comfort conditions and their changes in Russia according to gridded meteorological data from ERA-Interim reanalysis with a spatial resolution of 0.75° × 0.75° using the two most popular bioclimatic indices based on the human energy balance: physiologically equivalent temperature (PET) and universal thermal comfort index (UTCI). We analyzed the summer and winter means of these indices as well as the repeatability of different thermal stress grades for the current climatological standard normal period (1981–2010) and the trends of these parameters over the 1979–2018 period. We revealed the high diversity of the analyzed parameters in Russia as well as significant differences between the contemporary climate conditions and their changes in terms of mean temperature, mean values of bioclimatic indices, and thermal stress repeatability. Within the country, all degrees of thermal stress were possible; however, severe summer heat stress was rare, and in winter nearly the whole country experienced severe cold stress. Multidirectional changes in bioclimatic conditions were observed in Russia against the general background of climate warming. The European part of the country was most susceptible to climate change because it experiences significant changes both in summer and winter thermal stress repeatability. Intense Arctic warming was not reflected in significant changes in thermal stress repeatability.
State Segmentation and Democratic Survival in Latin America
Authors: López Matias
Published: July 2020

Popular models portray that high inequality induces elites to sponsor coups and reverse democratization as a means for repressing redistributive demands. Challenging this prediction, Latin America shifted from a historical pattern of systematic democratic breakdowns to one characterized by the resilience of democracy despite extreme levels of inequality. This article argues that the reminiscence of state-led repression under democracy explains why elites more regularly waive coups as solutions to distributive conflict in Latin American democracies. I call this state segmentation, a concept that describes the asymmetries between the enforcement of citizenship rights for those in privileged positions and for the poor. Wherever state segmentation is high, the odds of democratic breakdown should be lower. I test the argument using logistic regression models to predict the probability of coups and mandate interruptions considering different levels of state segmentation in Latin America using V-Dem data. Results show that asymmetries in access to citizenship rights indeed prevent democratic breakdowns.
Know Your Indoor Farmer: Square Roots, Techno-Local Food, and Transparency as Publicity
Authors: Broad Garrett M.
Published: July 2020

Advocates of indoor vertical farming have pitched the enterprise as key to the future of food, an opportunity to use technological innovation to increase local food production, bolster urban sustainability, and create a world in which there is “real food” for everyone. At the same time, critics have raised concerns about the costs, energy usage, social impacts, and overall agricultural viability of these efforts, with some insisting that existing low-tech and community-based solutions of the “good food movement” offer a better path forward. Drawing from a mix of participant observation and other qualitative methods, this article examines the work of Square Roots, a Brooklyn-based indoor vertical farming company cofounded by entrepreneur Kimbal Musk and technology CEO Tobias Peggs. In an effort to create a market for what I refer to as “techno-local food,” Square Roots pitches its products as simultaneously “real” and technologically optimized. As a way to build trust in these novel products and better connect consumers with producers, Square Roots leans on transparency as a publicity tool. The company’s Transparency Timeline, for instance, uses photos and a narrative account of a product’s life-cycle to tell its story “from seed-to-store,” allowing potential customers to “know their farmer.” The information Square Roots shares, however, offers a narrow peek into its operations, limiting the view of operational dynamics that could help determine whether the company is actually living up to its promise. The research provides a clear case study of an organization using transparency–publicity as market strategy, illustrating the positive possibilities that such an approach can bring to consumer engagement, while also demonstrating how the tactic can distract from a company’s stated social responsibility goals.
Prognostic Value of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients With Myocardial Infarction With Non-obstructive Coronary Arteries
Authors: Gürdal Ahmet , Keskin Kudret , Siğirci Serhat , Yildiz Süleyman Sezai , Kiliçkesmez Kadriye Orta
Published: July 2020

Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is a heterogeneous entity with an inflammatory etiopathogenesis. This study investigated the prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with MINOCA. Coronary angiographies performed between June 2015 and August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively and included 72 patients with MINOCA and 248 controls with normal coronary angiograms. The predictors of mortality were determined by univariate Cox regression analysis. The mean age of the subjects was 46 ± 9 years, and 176 (55%) were female. Median follow-up was 21 (max: 42) months. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was significantly higher in the MINOCA group than in the controls ( P < .01). During long-term follow-up, the number of deaths was 6 in the MINOCA group and none in the control patients ( P < .01). Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the NLR (hazard ratio: 1.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.09-1.41, P = .001) was a predictor of mortality in patients with MINOCA. Kaplan–Meier analysis also showed that patients with MINOCA had relatively higher mortality rate (long-rank test; P < .01). In conclusion, the NLR is significantly higher in patients with MINOCA compared with controls, and it is a predictor of long-term mortality.
Total Phosphorus Determination in Soils Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy: Evaluating Different Sources of Matrix Effects
Authors: Sánchez-Esteva Sara , Knadel Maria , Labouriau Rodrigo , Rubæk Gitte H. , Heckrath Goswin
Published: July 2020

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a potential alternative to wet chemical methods for total soil phosphorus determination, but matrix effects related to physical and chemical sample properties need to be further understood. The aim of this study was to explore matrix effects linked to particle size distribution and chemical form of phosphorus on LIBS response and the ability of LIBS to predict total phosphorus in a range of different soil types. Univariate calibration curves were developed by spiking the soils with increasing doses of phosphorus, and limits of detection for LIBS determined phosphorous (P) (LIBS-P) were calculated. Different particle size distributions in otherwise identical soils were obtained by four milling treatments and effects of chemical form of phosphorus were examined by spiking soils with identical amounts of phosphorus in different chemical compounds. The LIBS-P response showed a high correlation (R2 > 0.99) with total phosphorus for all soils. Yet, the sensitivity of LIBS differed significantly among soils, as the slope of the calibration curves increased with increasing sand content, resulting in estimated limits of detection of 10 mg kg−1 for the sandiest and 122 mg · kg−1 for the most clayey soils. These limits indicate that quantitative evaluation of total phosphorus in sandy and loamy sandy soils by LIBS is feasible, since they are lower than typical total phosphorus concentrations in soil. A given milling treatment created different particle size distributions depending on soil type, and consequently different LIBS-P results. Thus, procedures that specify the required degree of homogenization of soil samples prior to analysis are needed. Sieving after milling could be an option, but that should be tested. The soils spiked with Fe(III) phosphate, potassium phosphate and phytic acid had similar LIBS-P, except for soils with hydroxyapatite, which resulted in markedly lower response. These results suggested that matrix effects related to the chemical nature of phosphorus would be minor for non-calcareous soils in humid regions, where apatites comprise only a small fraction of total phosphorus. Strategies to overcome matrix effects related to particle size and content of apatite-phosphorus by combining multivariate models and soil type groupings should be further investigated.
Hemorrhage Rates in Pediatric Patients Receiving Postoperative Steroids After Tonsillectomy
Authors: Noblitt Bryce Randall , Siddiqui Fariha , Iverson Kenneth C.
Published: July 2020

Importance. Developing a safe postoperative pain regimen after tonsillectomy is important. While postoperative steroids may provide an analgesic benefit, it is not known whether steroids increase the bleeding risk after tonsillectomy. Objective. To determine whether postoperative steroids increase the risk of hemorrhage after tonsillectomy in children. Design. Retrospective cohort study. Setting. Tertiary referral academic medical center. Participants. An age- and indication-matched cohort was randomly selected from tonsillectomy patients ≤12 years old from 2012 to 2017. Intervention. Prednisolone, 0.5 mg/kg (maximum dose 20 mg/day) qAM × 3 days postoperatively. Main Outcome. Postoperative hemorrhage requiring operative intervention. Results. A total of 1358 patients were included in this study, 679 of which received postoperative steroids. The steroid group had a similar of operative intervention for post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage of 1.8% versus 2.2% in the nonsteroid group ( P = .560). Conclusion and Relevance. Post-tonsillectomy steroid use is not associated with an increase in operative intervention for postoperative hemorrhage.
Imitation in Johannine Christianity
Authors: Bennema Cornelis
Published: July 2020

Studies in Johannine ethics have flourished in recent times, but scholars have yet to reach the heart of the matter. My contention that imitation is central to Johannine ethics is perhaps surprising because the concept is not immediately evident in the Johannine writings. I will therefore explain how we can recognize and understand Johannine imitation, followed by an account of how John’s ‘imitation ethics’ works. Our findings will discover a tradition of imitation from Jesus in the early first century to Johannine Christians in the late first century, and on to the early Christian martyrs in the second century.
DRESS Syndrome Induced by Sorafenib in a Patient With Medullary Thyroid Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Rahmani Hamid , Mohebbi Niayesh , Sajjadi-Jazi Sayed Mahmoud
Published: July 2020

Background: Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a rare and life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction. It is characterized by fever, skin lesions, and internal organ involvement. Sorafenib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is used for the treatment of certain cancers such as hepatocellular, renal cell, and thyroid cancer. Case Presentation: The case is a 40 years old man who presented with fever, generalized skin rash, and pruritus. The patient has received sorafenib for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) from 3 weeks ago. Following presentation, the drug was discontinued and causality was assessed by scoring system RegiSCAR and Naranjo scale that showed a probable DRESS. There was no internal organ involvement based on the laboratory evaluations. The considerable abnormality was eosinophilia among patient’s laboratory tests. Antihistamines and topical and systemic corticosteroids were utilized for the management of the symptoms. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of DRESS syndrome by sorafenib in the patients with MTC. Clinicians should be aware of sign and symptoms suggesting DRESS syndrome of sorafenib.
Off-Label Use of Intravenous Olanzapine for Agitation After Neurologic Injury
Authors: Tsai Yuwei V. , Fawzy John H. , Durkin Joseph B. , Then Janine E. , McGinnis Cory B.
Published: July 2020

Background: Small studies have described the off-label use of intravenous (IV) olanzapine for the management of acute agitation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IV olanzapine to manage acutely agitated patients with neurological injuries. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of IV olanzapine use in patients admitted to the neurotrauma and neurovascular intensive care units at a single academic center. The primary endpoint was the requirement of additional IV olanzapine, IV benzodiazepine, or IV haloperidol within 60 minutes from the time of first IV olanzapine dose. Secondary safety endpoints included QTc prolongation and respiratory depression. Results: Forty-six patients received IV olanzapine during the study period. One patient required an additional dose of IV olanzapine and two patients received benzodiazepine or antipsychotic agents within 60 minutes of IV olanzapine administration. One patient had a post-administration QTc level >500 ms. Two patients had an increased oxygen requirement, but none required intubation. Conclusion: IV olanzapine appears to be efficacious in reducing the need for sedatives and antipsychotics with low risk for QTc prolongation and respiratory depression in acutely agitated patients with neurological injuries.
Prospects of India-European Union Cooperation in Africa
Authors: Zajączkowski Kamil , Kumar Arvind
Published: July 2020

In the contemporary geopolitical environment, this article outlines the issues and challenges faced by Africa and explores India–EU cooperation in addressing them. An attempt has been made to analyse this cooperation within the context of dynamic changes taking place in Africa. On the one hand, the essence of the phenomenon of Africa as a potential market is presented; on the other hand, it is depicted as a continent of challenges and threats. These factors have been assessed and analysed independent of China’s growing role in Africa. While describing both EU and India’s engagements in Africa, the article outlines specific areas of cooperation including defence and security, development cooperation, trade and investment, infrastructure development, climate challenges, and strengthening institutions of democracy.
Personal protective equipment and personal cooling garments to reduce heat-related stress and injuries
Authors: Tumram Nilesh K
Published: July 2020

Use of appropriate personal protective equipment is essential for healthcare workers when dealing with patients who have tested positive or are suspected of having Covid-19. Personal protective equipment is uncomfortable at best. In hot countries (like India) or in a hot place of work, its wearers are at a high risk of heat-related illnesses. Once in personal protective equipment a healthcare worker can remain in it for at least 6 h at a stretch. In summer when it is hot and humid, personal protective equipment can cause wearer dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat fatigue. In a severe form, this can result in heat stroke and a collapse while on duty. Preventive measures are needed to protect healthcare workers. This review aims to highlight the efficacy and applicability of personal cooling garments.
Toward Equity-Oriented Assessment of Social and Emotional Learning: Examining Equivalence of Concepts and Measures
Authors: El Mallah Shereen
Published: July 2020

Cultural beliefs, values, and norms influence the frequency and display of behavior. Accordingly, broadening the operational definitions of social and emotional competencies and establishing the equivalence of measures are two necessary steps to ensure that current assessment tools are sensitive to cultural and contextual variations. The purpose of this article is twofold: first, to examine the risks associated with narrow definitions or assumptions of invariance, particularly as each pertains to the assessment of social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies among Black students in urban schools; and second, to consider the utility of prototype analysis in advancing transformative SEL research and practice.
Detroit five years after bankruptcy: From coercion to consent
Authors: Barnes Tom , Roose Joshua M. , Turner Bryan S.
Published: July 2020

Critical scholarship has characterised the 2013–2014 bankruptcy of Detroit – the largest municipal bankruptcy in history – as a fiscal ‘state of exception’ which undermined the democratic foundations of urban citizenship. From this perspective, the imposition of emergency management and declaration of bankruptcy were acts of raw coercion. Drawing upon Antonio Gramsci’s theory of hegemony and empirical evidence, including interviews with civic leaders shortly after the bankruptcy, a survey of public attitudes towards the bankruptcy and public records from the bankruptcy court, this article charts a different interpretation of evolving public opinion in the five years post bankruptcy. We present evidence of a popular narrative among Detroiters which retroactively depicts the bankruptcy as a necessary evil, akin to a market clearing signal at the bottom of a business cycle. Far from bankruptcy being viewed as purely coercive, we suggest that this narrative has operated as an important mechanism of civic and political consent.
When is enough enough? Accurate measurement and the integrity of scientific research
Authors: Sibum H. Otto
Published: July 2020

At a meeting of the Physical Society of London in 1925 participants expressed their concerns regarding a recent suggestion by the Australian physicist T. H. Laby for replicating the established value of the mechanical equivalent of heat. This rather controversial discussion about the value of redetermining this numerical fact brings to light different understandings of the moral economy of accuracy in scientific work; it signals a distinctive new stage in the historical understanding of accuracy and precision and the moral integrity in conducting research.
Wanted: Angela Davis and a Jury of Her Peers
Authors: Chakravarti Sonali
Published: July 2020

In 1972 Angela Davis stood trial on charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder before a White jury. A professor of philosophy, a Communist, and a member of the Black Panther Party, she had no reason to believe that any of the jurors were her peers. Yet, after three days of deliberation, they returned a Not Guilty verdict on each of the counts. Through an analysis of the case, this essay argues for a new approach to peerhood that defines it as a combination of (1) demographic similarities to the defendant and (2) a worldview orientation of contestation and anticorruption that emerges from the jury’s function in the trial. Greater clarity on how these factors are important for peerhood provides insights into how jurors can best fulfill their role and what remedies are necessary to achieve a jury of one’s peers.
Towards collaborative drilling with a cobot using admittance controller
Authors: Aydin Yusuf , Sirintuna Doganay , Basdogan Cagatay
Published: July 2020

In the near future, collaborative robots (cobots) are expected to play a vital role in the manufacturing and automation sectors. It is predicted that workers will work side by side in collaboration with cobots to surpass fully automated factories. In this regard, physical human-robot interaction (pHRI) aims to develop natural communication between the partners to bring speed, flexibility, and ergonomics to the execution of complex manufacturing tasks. One challenge in pHRI is to design an optimal interaction controller to balance the limitations introduced by the contradicting nature of transparency and stability requirements. In this paper, a general methodology to design an admittance controller for a pHRI system is developed by considering the stability and transparency objectives. In our approach, collaborative robot constrains the movement of human operator to help with a pHRI task while an augmented reality (AR) interface informs the operator about its phases. To this end, dynamical characterization of the collaborative robot (LBR IIWA 7 R800, KUKA Inc.) is presented first. Then, the stability and transparency analyses for our pHRI task involving collaborative drilling with this robot are reported. A range of allowable parameters for the admittance controller is determined by superimposing the stability and transparency graphs. Finally, three different sets of parameters are selected from the allowable range and the effect of admittance controllers utilizing these parameter sets on the task performance is investigated.
Finite-time integrated guidance and control system for hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Zhenyu Chong , Jianguo Guo , Bin Zhao , Zongyi Guo , Xiaodong Lu
Published: July 2020

A finite-time integrated guidance and control (IGC) method is proposed in this study for hypersonic vehicles. The IGC dynamic model is initially built by combining the 3D relative kinematics and dynamics equations. Then, by introducing the adaptive control technology and the backstepping approach, an IGC scheme with adaptive parameters is presented to guarantee the finite-time stability of a closed-loop control system on the basis of Lyapunov stability theory. Nonlinear simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed IGC method for hypersonic vehicles compared with other robust IGC methods.
The extent of job automation in the automobile sector in South Africa
Authors: Chigbu Bianca I , Nekhwevha Fhulu H
Published: July 2020

This study argues that the automobile sector’s body shop is fully automated, the paint shop is 80% automated, there is about 20% technology utilization in the car assembly line, and the supply for logistics is making a lot more use of machines as well. These percentages are an indicator of how workers have lost the contest with technology in the industry. Many workers are being deskilled and the remaining workers are being reshuffled to assembly lines likely to be automated with time. There should be interventions to ready the workers to adapt to society and the economy, or there will be massive unemployment.
Beyond the Emoticon: Are There Unintentional Cues of Emotion in Email?
Authors: Blunden Hayley , Brodsky Andrew
Published: July 2020

Email and text-based communication have become ubiquitous. Although recent findings indicate emotional equivalence between face-to-face and email communication, there is limited evidence of nonverbal behaviors in text-based communication, especially the kinds of unintentional displays central to emotion perception in face-to-face interactions. We investigate whether unintentional emotion cues occur in text-based communication by proposing that communication mistakes (e.g., typos) influence emotion perception. Across six studies, we show that communication errors amplify perceptions of email sender’s emotions—both negative (Studies 1A–2, 4, 5) and positive (Study 3). Furthermore, by contrasting perceptions of message senders who make mistakes in emotional versus unemotional contexts (Study 5), we show that people partially excuse message sender communication errors in emotional (versus unemotional) contexts, attributing such mistakes to the sender’s emotional state rather than solely their intelligence level. These studies suggest that nonverbal behavior in text-based and face-to-face communication may be more comparable than previously thought.
The skin hyperpigmentation index: An objective method of measuring the intensity of hyperpigmentation after sclerotherapy
Authors: Bossart Simon , Willenberg Torsten , Ramelet Albert-Adrien , Cazzaniga Simone , Hunger Robert E , Seyed Jafari S Morteza
Published: July 2020

Skin hyperpigmentation in chronic venous insufficiency and as a side effect in vein treatments are of great importance for the affected individuals. There are only a few qualitatively limited methods that allow its quantification. Previous techniques to develop a reliable scientific approach to quantification have failed due to the lack of standardized conditions including differences in lighting, distances and equipment. A newly developed measuring method, the “skin hyperpigmentation index”, enables a fully automated and standardized quantification of skin hyperpigmentation with dermatoscopic images. The skin hyperpigmentation index defines the ratio of two scores, namely hyperpigmented skin of the affected area and normal sun protected skin from the same patient. This results in a range from 1 (no pigmentation) to 4 (maximum pigmentation). For a practical evaluation of the score, a free skin hyperpigmentation index calculator can be used online, which is accessible to all practitioners ( https://shi.skinimageanalysis.com/ ). The skin hyperpigmentation index is a fully automated method for the quantitative assessment of skin pigmentation which can easily be applied to any skin type with any type of hyperpigmentation. This allows a simple, fast, and standardized quantification of skin hyperpigmentation and is useful for monitoring the progress and planning of whitening therapy.
Flame-retardant behaviors of aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite in epoxy resin
Authors: Yan Wei , Xie Pu , Yang Zhengwei , Luo Guangjin , Huang Weijiang , Tian Qin , Tu Chunyun , Zhang Chunmei , Yang Chunlin , Wang Kui
Published: July 2020

Aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite nanocomposite was fabricated via a simple one-pot heterogeneous precipitation strategy, and the effects of aluminum phosphates on the morphology of aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite were investigated. Moreover, the effect of aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite on the flame-retardant behavior, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of epoxy resin have been discussed. The results indicated that the introduction of only 20 wt% aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite in epoxy resin increased the limited oxygen index from 21.8% to 30.1%, thus the material met the UL-94 V-0 rating. Thermogravimetric analyses revealed that char yield increased in the presence of aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite form thermally stable carbonaceous char. Aluminum phosphates–coated sepiolite could improve the mechanical performance, thermal stability of epoxy resin.
Conditions and Consequences of ELULU Improvement: Environmental Justice Lessons from San Francisco, CA
Authors: Solis Miriam
Published: July 2020

Existing locally unwanted land uses (ELULUs) are disproportionately located in low-income communities of color. As ELULUs fall into disrepair, can planners redevelop them in ways that advance environmental justice and, if so, how? Through a case study of a San Francisco ELULU redevelopment planning process, this article highlights the central role of community-based organizing in generating policy changes that promoted certain environmental justice outcomes. A reconceptualization of the agency-neighborhood relationship was key. Findings also identify the obduracy of infrastructure and directed redress as central planning considerations and tensions.
Arterial Oxygenation in Traumatic Brain Injury—Relation to Cerebral Energy Metabolism, Autoregulation, and Clinical Outcome
Authors: Wettervik Teodor Svedung , Engquist Henrik , Howells Timothy , Lenell Samuel , Rostami Elham , Hillered Lars , Enblad Per , Lewén Anders
Published: July 2020

Background:

Ischemic and hypoxic secondary brain insults are common and detrimental in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Treatment aims to maintain an adequate cerebral blood flow with sufficient arterial oxygen content. It has been suggested that arterial hyperoxia may be beneficial to the injured brain to compensate for cerebral ischemia, overcome diffusion barriers, and improve mitochondrial function. In this study, we investigated the relation between arterial oxygen levels and cerebral energy metabolism, pressure autoregulation, and clinical outcome.

Methods:

This retrospective study was based on 115 patients with severe TBI treated in the neurointensive care unit, Uppsala university hospital, Sweden, 2008 to 2018. Data from cerebral microdialysis (MD), arterial blood gases, hemodynamics, and intracranial pressure were analyzed the first 10 days post-injury. The first day post-injury was studied in particular.

Results:

Arterial oxygen levels were higher and with greater variability on the first day post-injury, whereas it was more stable the following 9 days. Normal-to-high mean pO2 was significantly associated with better pressure autoregulation/lower pressure reactivity index ( P = .02) and lower cerebral MD-lactate ( P = .04) on day 1. Patients with limited cerebral energy metabolic substrate supply (MD-pyruvate below 120 µM) and metabolic disturbances with MD-lactate-/pyruvate ratio (LPR) above 25 had significantly lower arterial oxygen levels than those with limited MD-pyruvate supply and normal MD-LPR ( P = .001) this day. Arterial oxygenation was not associated with clinical outcome.

Conclusions:

Maintaining a pO2 above 12 kPa and higher may improve oxidative cerebral energy metabolism and pressure autoregulation, particularly in cases of limited energy substrate supply in the early phase of TBI. Evaluating the cerebral energy metabolic profile could yield a better patient selection for hyperoxic treatment in future trials.
Examining the Role of a Community-Led Structural Intervention in Shaping Mothering Among Sex Workers in India
Authors: Ali Samira , Chaudhuri Sambuddha , Ghose Toorjo , Jana Smarajit
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study is to explore the ways in which community-led structural interventions (CLSI) shape the mothering experiences of sex workers. In-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with 40 sex worker mothers from Kolkata, India. Participants were recruited from Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC), a CLSI. Elements of constructivist grounded theory were employed. Results revealed DMSC mobilization (re)shaped mothering for female sex workers through (a) the subjective reorientation about establishing sex work as legitimate labor and disclosing sex worker identity and (b) access to material resources such as safe spaces, childcare networks, and educational opportunities. CLSI have the potential to influence the self-perception of communities that are marginalized and provide them with material resources that ultimately promote family well-being. While working with sex workers, it is imperative to understand their multiple, intersecting roles and co-develop community-based interventions not only with sex workers but their families as well.
Practitioner Experience With Mistreated Older Adults Who Have Dementia: Understanding Contextual Influences and Consequences
Authors: Lindenbach Jeannette , Morgan Debra , Larocque Sylvie , Jacklin Kristen
Published: July 2020

Studies of mistreatment of older adults have revealed alarmingly higher prevalence rates of mistreatment of those who have dementia. When the mistreatment occurs within the context of the home and is perpetrated by a family caregiver, it may remain hidden and only be discovered by the health and social service practitioners who have access to the home. Understanding the contexts within which this mistreatment occurs, and the influence of these contexts on the experience of these practitioners as well as on the resulting outcomes for mistreated older adults, has received little attention in the literature. This qualitative study, framed by critical social theory, aimed to answer the following research question: What are the contextual influences on practitioner experience with mistreatment of older adults with dementia by a caregiver within the home? Specifically, this study explored contextual influences within a Canadian province, where there is neither specific adult protective legislation nor infrastructure when mistreatment occurs within the home. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, journals, and focus groups with 51 practitioners from various disciplines providing services to mistreated older adults with dementia in their homes. Theoretical thematic analysis led to the discovery of five contextual themes influencing the experience: the privileged burden of seeing behind closed doors; a domestic problem within a societal context; interprofessional challenges; a history of stagnation, losses, and systems failure; and a legislative complexity and oppression. Understanding these contextual influences is crucial to supporting practitioners, who, although entrusted to protect mistreated older adults, describe powerlessness within current contexts. This understanding is needed to improve outcomes for mistreated older adults with dementia.
Pregnant Victims of Intimate Partner Homicide in the National Violent Death Reporting System Database, 2003–2014: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Morrison Penelope K. , Pallatino Chelsea , Fusco Rachel A. , Kenkre Tanya , Chang Judy , Krans Elizabeth E.
Published: July 2020

Intimate partner homicide (IPH) is a leading cause of maternal mortality in the United States. However, very little information exists as to the circumstantial factors associated with IPH during pregnancy. We conducted a descriptive study of the demographic characteristics, psychosocial service engagement, and crises experiences (i.e., life and relationship stressors) among pregnant and nonpregnant victims to understand what differences, if any, exist in their risk profile for IPH. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) were used for this study. The NVDRS is a national opt-in tracking system of all violent deaths in the United States. Pregnant victims ( N = 293) were significantly more likely to be 5 years younger than nonpregnant victims, African American, and never married. Pregnant victims were more likely to be seen in the emergency room following the fatal incident. Nonpregnant victims ( N = 2,089) were significantly more likely to have suspected alcohol use at the time of their death. In strictly proportional terms, we also observed higher rates of mental health problems, a history of mental health treatment, and a reported history of intimate partner violence (IPV), crisis, or family problems among nonpregnant victims. A wider range of IPH-related risk factors (e.g. substance abuse) need to be included IPV assessments. Future studies should seek to develop effective interventions to prevent IPH, particularly among reproductive aged women.