bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Oxidized Wood Pulp Fibers on the Performance of the Thermoplastic Corn Starch Composites
Authors: Yin Peng , Zhou Wen , Dong Xin , Guo Bin , Huang Yanan
Published: July 2020

In this study, oxidized wood pulp fiber (OWPF) was prepared by oxidizing wood pulp fiber (WPF) with NaIO4, and OWPFs with different oxidation degrees were obtained and characterized by light microscope, XRD, and TG. Then, OWPFs with different oxidation degrees were incorporated into thermoplastic starch (TPS) to prepare OWPF/TPS composites. The cross-section morphology, water resistance, and physical and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. SEM showed good dispersion of OWPF in the continuous TPS phase. The tensile strength of OWPF/TPS reached a maximum value of 5.02 MPa when the oxidation degree of OWPF was 0.5. Elongation at break of OWPF/TPS composites increased with the increasing oxidation degree of OWPF. Meanwhile, as a result of cross-linking, the water contact angle was also improved with the increased oxidation degree of OWPF. The study provided a new way to prepare a degradable TPS composite with satisfying properties to be used for packaging and catering.
Intraoperative Peritoneal Interleukin-6 Concentration Changes in Relation to the High-Mobility Group Protein B1 and Heat Shock Protein 70 Levels in Children Undergoing Cholecystectomy
Authors: Tylicka Marzena , Matuszczak Ewa , Kamińska Joanna , Dębek Wojciech , Modzelewska Beata , Kleszczewski Tomasz , Dymicka-Piekarska Violetta , Matowicka-Karna Joanna , Karpińska Maria , Koper-Lenkiewicz Olga M.
Published: July 2020

The aim was the evaluation of IL-6 concentration in peritoneal lavage fluid of children which underwent cholecystectomy to ascertain if there is a difference in early inflammatory response depending on the type of surgical approach (open vs. laparoscopy). The analysis of high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was performed to find out if the source of IL-6 was related to tissue damage. IL-6 concentration in peritoneal lavage fluid samples, obtained at the beginning and at the end of the laparoscopic (N=23) and open cholecystectomy (N=14), was tested with a routinely used electrochemiluminescence assay. The concentrations of HMGB1 and HSP70 were analyzed with the use of an ELISA method. Statistical analysis was performed using the STATISTICA PL release 12.5 Program. The differences were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon matched pairs test. Correlations were studied by using the Spearman correlation test. Our results demonstrated significant peritoneal lavage fluid IL-6 concentration growth measured at the end of the cholecystectomy as compared to the beginning, regardless of the type of the procedure. IL-6 growth during open cholecystectomy was greater compared to laparoscopic cholecystectomy (62.51-fold vs. 3.19-fold). IL-6 concentration did not correlate with HMGB1 and HSP70, which indicate that the significant growth of this cytokine was not related to mechanical tissue damage due to surgical procedure. A clinical significance of the study could be related to the fact that the evaluation of IL-6 concentration in peritoneal lavage fluid may be useful to assess an early local inflammatory response.
Microenvironmental Activation of Nrf2 Restricts the Progression of Nrf2-Activated Malignant Tumors
Authors: Hayashi Makiko , Kuga Ayumi , Suzuki Mikiko , Panda Harit , Kitamura Hiroshi , Motohashi Hozumi , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: July 2020

The transcription factor Nrf2 activates transcription of cytoprotective genes during oxidative and electrophilic insults. Nrf2 activity is regulated by Keap1 in a stress-dependent manner in normal cells, and somatic loss-of-function mutations of Keap1 are known to induce constitutive Nrf2 activation, especially in lung adenocarcinomas, conferring survival and proliferative benefits to tumors. Therefore, several therapeutic strategies that aim to inhibit Nrf2 in tumors have been developed for the treatment of Nrf2-activated cancers. Here we addressed whether targeting Nrf2 activation in the microenvironment can suppress the progression of Nrf2-activated tumors. We combined two types of Keap1-flox mice expressing variable levels of Keap1 with a Kras-driven adenocarcinoma model to generate Keap1-deficient lung tumors surrounded by normal or Keap1-knockdown host cells. In this model system, activation of Nrf2 in the microenvironment prolonged the survival of Nrf2-activated tumor-bearing mice. The Nrf2-activated microenvironment suppressed tumor burden; in particular, preinvasive lesion formation was significantly suppressed. Notably, loss of Nrf2 in bone marrow–derived cells in Nrf2-activated host cells appeared to counteract the suppression of Nrf2-activated cancer progression. Thus, these results demonstrate that microenvironmental Nrf2 activation suppresses the progression of malignant Nrf2-activated tumors and that Nrf2 activation in immune cells at least partially contributes to these suppressive effects.

Significance:

This study clarifies the importance of Nrf2 activation in the tumor microenvironment and in the host for the suppression of malignant Nrf2-activated cancers and proposes new cancer therapies utilizing inducers of Nrf2.
Differences in Lung and Lobe Volumes between Supine and Standing Positions Scanned with Conventional and Newly Developed 320-Detector-Row Upright CT: Intra-Individual Comparison
Authors: Yamada Yoshitake , Yamada Minoru , Yokoyama Yoichi , Tanabe Akiko , Matsuoka Shiho , Niijima Yuki , Narita Keiichi , Nakahara Takehiro , Murata Mitsuru , Fukunaga Koichi , Chubachi Shotaro , Jinzaki Masahiro
Published: July 2020

Background: No clinical studies to date have compared unilateral lung or lobe volumes between the supine and standing positions. Objectives: To compare lung/lobe volumes on computed tomography (CT) between these two positions and evaluate the correlation between the total lung volume and total lung capacity (TLC) on pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Methods: Thirty-two asymptomatic volunteers underwent both conventional CT (supine position) and upright CT (standing position), during deep inspiration breath-hold, and PFTs on the same day. We measured lung/lobe volumes on CT in each position. Paired t tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: The volumes of the total lung (10.9% increase), right lung (10.3% increase), right upper lobe (8.6% increase), right lower lobe (14.6% increase), left lung (11.6% increase), left upper lobe (7.1% increase), and left lower lobe (16.0% increase) were significantly greater in the standing position than in the supine position (all p < 0.0001). The right middle lobe volume was similar between the two positions (p = 0.16). Intraclass correlation coefficients for agreement between total lung volumes on CT in the supine/standing positions and the TLC on PFT were 0.891/0.938, respectively. Conclusions: While the volumes of the bilateral upper and lower lobes and bilateral lungs were significantly greater in the standing than in the supine position, with lower lobes showing larger changes, the right middle lobe volume did not change significantly between positions. The total lung volume on upright CT in the standing position was more similar to TLC on PFT than that in the supine position.
The Protein Translocation Defect of MCT8L291R Is Rescued by Sodium Phenylbutyrate
Authors: Braun Doreen , Schweizer Ulrich
Published: July 2020

Introduction: The monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8; SLC16A2) is a specific transporter for thyroid hormones. MCT8 deficiency, formerly known as the Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome, is a rare genetic disease that leads to neurological impairments and muscle weakness. Current experimental treatment options rely on thyromimetic agonists that do not depend on MCT8 for cellular uptake. Another approach comes from studies with the chemical chaperone sodium phenylbutyrate (NaPB), which was able to stabilize MCT8 mutants having protein folding defects in vitro. In addition, NaPB is known as a compound that assists with plasma membrane translocation. Objective: The pathogenic MCT8L291R leads to the same severe neurological impairments found for other MCT8-deficient patients but, unexpectedly, lacks alterations in plasma 3,3′,5-triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Here we tried to unravel the underlying mechanism of MCT8 deficiency and tested whether the pathogenic MCT8L291R mutant responds to NaPB treatment. Therefore, we overexpressed the mutant in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells in the human choriocarcinoma cell line JEG1 and in COS7 cells of African green monkey origin. Results: In our recent study we describe that the MCT8L291R mutation most likely leads to a translocation defect. The pathogenic mutant is not located at the plasma membrane, but shows overlapping expression with a marker protein of the lysosome. Mutation of the corresponding amino acid in murine Mct8 (Mct8L223R) displays a similar effect on cell surface expression and transport function as seen before for MCT8L291R. NaPB was able to correct the translocation defect of MCT8L291R/Mct8L223R and restored protein function by increasing T3 transport activity. Furthermore, we detected enhanced mRNA levels of wild-type and mutant MCT8/Mct8 after NaPB treatment. The increase in mRNA levels could be an explanation for the positive effect on protein expression and function detected for wild-type MCT8. Conclusion: NaPB is not only suitable for the treatment of mutations leading to misfolding and protein degradation, but also for a mutant wrongly sorted inside a cell which is otherwise functional.
Ribociclib-Induced Pneumonitis: A Case Report
Authors: Algwaiz Ghada , Badran Ahmed Ali , Elshenawy Mahmoud A. , Al-Tweigeri Taher
Published: July 2020

Background: Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK 4/6) inhibitors have been a significant breakthrough in the management of hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer based on the results of several large phase III randomized trials. The most common reported toxicity is myelosuppression due to disease such as leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Other toxicities associated with CDK 4/6 inhibitors include mucositis, fatigue, gastrointestinal side effects, hepatic toxicities, and QTc prolongation. Despite a good toxicity profile in pivotal studies, the increased rates of use in clinical practice may show less prevalent but lethal toxicity such as lung injury. Case Presentation: Here, we describe a female patient with metastatic hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor 2-negative breast cancer who developed lung toxicity while on ribociclib. Discussion: Lung injury is a possible side effect of CDK 4/6 inhibitors and there is an increasing need to understand the management of this side effect.
Current Role of Multiparametric MRI and MRI Targeted Biopsies for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis in Germany: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Saar Matthias , Linxweiler Johannes , Borkowetz Angelika , Fussek Sebastian , Urbanova Katerina , Bellut Laura , Kristiansen Glen , Wullich Bernd ,   on behalf of the German Prostate Cancer Consortium (DPKK)
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and MRI targeted biopsies (MRtb) are a new standard in prostate cancer (PCa) screening and diagnosis. Guidelines already include this approach for patients at risk. We aimed to gather information from German urologists about their knowledge, routine use, and attitude toward mpMRI and consecutive biopsy methods. Materials and Methods: An anonymous online questionnaire was sent via Survey Monkey to the members of the German Society of Urology (DGU). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: 496 members with a median age of 48.6 years (±11.7) participated in the survey. The majority rated mpMRI of the prostate as a very useful diagnostic tool (72.7%). MRtb of the prostate was considered as very advantageous (71.5%). MpMRI was used by 95.9%, and 83.2% also recommended MRtb predominantly in clinical institutions. For targeted biopsy, MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy was clearly favored (75.8%). MpMRI was mostly used in patients with previously negative biopsy (90.9%) and in patients under active surveillance (60.9%). Arguments against the use of prostate mpMRI are costs (84.9%) and/or lack of sufficient radiological infrastructure (17.4%). Conclusion: Our data illustrate the meanwhile high acceptance and clinical use of the prostate mpMRI and MRtb in Germany.
Association of Markers of Microvascular Dysfunction With Prevalent and Incident Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Geraets Anouk F.J. , van Agtmaal Marnix J.M. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Sörensen Ben M. , Berendschot Tos T.J.M. , Webers Carroll A.B. , Schaper Nicolaas C. , Henry Ronald M.A. , van der Kallen Carla J.H. , Eussen Simone J.P.M. , Koster Annemarie , van Sloten Thomas T. , Köhler Sebastian , Schram Miranda T. , Houben Alfons J.H.M.
Published: July 2020

The etiology of late-life depression (LLD) is still poorly understood. Microvascular dysfunction (MVD) has been suggested to play a role in the etiology of LLD, but direct evidence of this association is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate whether direct and indirect markers of early microvascular dysfunction are associated with prevalent and incident LLD in the population-based Maastricht Study cohort. We measured microvascular dysfunction at baseline by use of flicker light-induced retinal vessel dilation response (Dynamic Vessel Analyzer), heat-induced skin hyperemic response (laser- Doppler flowmetry), and plasma markers of endothelial dysfunction (endothelial dysfunction; sICAM-1 [soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1], sVCAM-1 [soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1], sE-selectin [soluble E-selectin], and vWF [Von Willebrand Factor]). Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at baseline and annually over 4 years of follow-up (n=3029; mean age 59.6±8.2 years, 49.5% were women, n=132 and n=251 with prevalent and incident depressive symptoms [PHQ-9≥10]). We used logistic, negative binominal and Cox regression analyses, and adjusted for demographic, cardiovascular, and lifestyle factors. Retinal venular dilatation and plasma markers of endothelial dysfunction were associated with the more prevalent depressive symptoms after full adjustment (PHQ-9 score, RR, 1.05 [1.00–1.11] and RR 1.06 [1.01–1.11], respectively). Retinal venular dilatation was also associated with prevalent depressive symptoms (PHQ-9≥10; odds ratio, 1.42 [1.09–1.84]), after full adjustment. Retinal arteriolar dilatation and plasma markers of endothelial dysfunction were associated with incident depressive symptoms (PHQ-9≥10; HR, 1.23 [1.04–1.46] and HR, 1.19 [1.05–1.35]), after full adjustment. These findings support the concept that microvascular dysfunction in the retina, and plasma markers of endothelial dysfunction is involved in the etiology of LLD and might help in finding additional targets for the prevention and treatment of LLD.
Pregnancy-Related Complications in Patients With Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Authors: Pappaccogli Marco , Prejbisz Aleksander , Ciurică Simina , Bruno Rosa Maria , Aniszczuk-Hybiak Anna , Bracalente Irene , De Backer Tine , Debiève Frédéric , Delmotte Philippe , Di Monaco Silvia , Jarraya Faiçal , Gordin Daniel , Kosiński Przemysław , Kroon Abraham A. , Maas Angela H.E.M. , Marcon Denise , Minuz Pietro , Montagud-Marrahi Enrique , Pasquet Agnès , Poch Esteban , Rabbia Franco , Stergiou George S. , Tikkanen Ilkka , Toubiana Laurent , Vinck Wouter , Warchoł-Celińska Ewa , Van der Niepen Patricia , de Leeuw Peter , Januszewicz Andrzej , Persu Alexandre ,   on behalf of the European/International Fibromuscular Dysplasia Registry and Initiative (FEIRI) and the Working Group “Hypertension and the Kidney” of the ESH
Published: July 2020

Current literature suggests a higher risk of pregnancy-related complications in patients with renal fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD). The aim of our study was to assess the nature and prevalence of pregnancy-related complications in patients subsequently diagnosed with FMD. A call for participation was sent to centers contributing to the European/International FMD Registry. Patients with at least 1 pregnancy were included. Data on pregnancy were collected through medical files and FMD characteristics through the European/International FMD Registry. Data from 534 pregnancies were obtained in 237 patients. Despite the fact that, in 96% of cases, FMD was not diagnosed before pregnancy, 40% of women (n=93) experienced pregnancy-related complications, mostly gestational hypertension (25%) and preterm birth (20%), while preeclampsia was reported in only 7.5%. Only 1 patient experienced arterial dissection and another patient an aneurysm rupture. When compared with patients without pregnancy-related complications, patients with complicated pregnancies were younger at FMD diagnosis (43 versus 51 years old;
P
<0.001) and had a lower prevalence of cerebrovascular FMD (30% versus 52%;
P
=0.003) but underwent more often renal revascularization (63% versus 40%,
P
<0.001). In conclusion, the prevalence of pregnancy-related complications such as gestational hypertension and preterm birth was high in patients with FMD, probably related to the severity of renal FMD. However, the prevalence of preeclampsia and arterial complications was low/moderate. These findings emphasize the need to screen hypertensive women for FMD to ensure revascularization before pregnancy if indicated and appropriate follow-up during pregnancy, without discouraging patients with FMD from considering pregnancy.
Epitypification and emended description of Merostachys bifurcata (Poaceae: Bambusoideae: Bambuseae: Arthrostylidiinae)

Authors: VINÍCIUS-SILVA RONALDO , CLARK LYNN G. , FREGONEZI JÉFERSON NUNES , SANTOS-GONÇALVES ANA PAULA
Published: July 2020

Merostachys is one of the more species-rich genera of Neotropical woody bamboos. Merostachys includes ca. 55 described species; one of them is M. bifurcata, which is recorded from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and was described based only on vegetative characters. Morphological analyses carried out in both national and foreign herbaria allowed us to record flowering specimens of this species. We propose here an emended description of M. bifurcata by including data for the reproductive structures, and we propose an epitype for this name. Comments about the taxonomy, habitat, distribution and phenology of this species are provided. A distribution map is provided and an illustration of the main morphological characters of this species is also included.
A new species of cylindrical bark beetle (Zopheridae: Colydiinae) from Vanuatu establishes in Hawaii
Authors: BERNARD JARED , GILLETT CONRAD P. D. T.
Published: July 2020

We describe Bulasconotus scaccarius sp. nov., a new species of cylindrical bark beetle (Zopheridae: Colydiinae: Synchitini), elevating the number of described species in its genus to two. Despite discovering this species in Hawaii, we suspect, based on collections and survey data, that it is endemic to the South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu and has only recently arrived in Hawaii. Evidence of the diet of closely related genera indicates that the new species may be a predator of ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae), conceivably posing a risk to those that are endemic to Hawaii.
Developing and Validating a Novel Anonymous Method for Matching Longitudinal School-Based Data
Authors: Agley Jon , Tidd David , Jun Mikyoung , Eldridge Lori , Xiao Yunyu , Sussman Steve , Jayawardene Wasantha , Agley Daniel , Gassman Ruth , Dickinson Stephanie L.
Published: July 2020

Prospective longitudinal data collection is an important way for researchers and evaluators to assess change. In school-based settings, for low-risk and/or likely-beneficial interventions or surveys, data quality and ethical standards are both arguably stronger when using a waiver of parental consent—but doing so often requires the use of anonymous data collection methods. The standard solution to this problem has been the use of a self-generated identification code. However, such codes often incorporate personalized elements (e.g., birth month, middle initial) that, even when meeting the technical standard for anonymity, may raise concerns among both youth participants and their parents, potentially altering willingness to participate, response quality, or generating outrage. There may be value, therefore, in developing a self-generated identification code and matching approach that not only is technically anonymous but also appears anonymous to a research-naive individual. This article provides a proof of concept for a novel matching approach for school-based longitudinal data collection that potentially accomplishes this goal.
Study on the influence of one-way street optimization design on traffic operation system
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhang Xinxin , Yang Yanni , Zhou Bing
Published: July 2020

Modifying the existing two-way street into a one-way street can alleviate the traffic congestion in a megacity and has the characteristics of economy saving, convenience, and quickness. However, at present, the setting of one-way street in China is mostly determined by human experience and lack of scientific basis. In this context, a one-way street network planning model is established in this paper. According to this model, the optimal method of adding a one-way street on the existing traffic network is found, solved by genetic algorithm. The abstract things are quantified, and some feasible, specific, efficient implementation steps to design a one-way street network are provided for the traffic control department. In addition, taking the traffic in the core area of Tongzhou New City as an example, this paper uses the one-way street planning model to construct the actual street network model and the one-way street network model in the core area of the Tongzhou New City and compares their simulation results. The results show that using the one-way street planning model to modify part of the two-way street into a one-way street in the core area of the Tongzhou New City can indeed improve the traffic operation of the area.
Provoking Ordinary People: The Effects of Terrorism on Civilian Violence
Authors: Brandsch Jürgen , Python André
Published: July 2020

Research on the effects of terrorism mostly focuses on the coercive effects of violence on the macrolevel, while other effects like provocation, particularly on the microlevel, do not receive the same attention. In this article, we seek to address previous omissions. We argue that terrorism can provoke ordinary people into a violent reaction. By reducing perceived security and creating a desire for revenge terrorism may lead civilians to attack uninvolved members of the terrorists’ constituency. Using geo-referenced data on terrorism (Global Terrorism Database) and violent riots (Social Conflict Analysis Database), we assess with a matched wake analysis if the treatment of terrorist violence against civilians causes an increase in violent behavior. The results of our analyses show that terrorism significantly increases violent riots. We thus conclude that terrorism can not only provoke governments but also civilians into an overreaction.
Why Are So Many Indigenous Peoples Dying and No One Is Paying Attention? Depressive Symptoms and “Loss of Loved Ones” as a Result and Driver of Health Disparities
Authors: McKinley Catherine E. , Miller Scarnato Jennifer , Sanders Sara
Published: July 2020

Indigenous peoples have not only experienced a devastating rate of historical loss of lives, they are more likely to experience mortality disparities. The purpose of this article is to examine Indigenous women’s lived experiences of grief and loss in two Southeastern tribes and the relationship between depressive symptoms and recent loss of a loved one. Our exploratory sequential mixed-methods research was informed by the Indigenous based Framework of Historical Oppression, Resilience, and Transcendence (FHORT). We summarized key qualitative themes from ethnographic data from 287 female participants across the two tribes, collected through focus groups, family interviews, and individual interviews. We then quantitatively examined how these themes predicted depressive outcomes among 127 respondents. Specifically, we examined associations between depressive symptoms and components of historical oppression—historical loss, loss of lives, and the presence of PTSD symptoms—along with resilience and transcendence.
Alternative management of Covid-19 infection
Authors: Atrah Hasan I
Published: July 2020

Cytokine storm is a life-threatening complication of Covid-19 infection. Excessive cytokines are the products of hyperactive immune inflammatory response mounted by the host against the virus. There is no agreed treatment for cytokine storm. Three therapeutic agents with proven immune-modulatory properties in regular use in a wide range of inflammatory disorders (high dose intravenous immunoglobulin, Rituximab and thalidomide) are proposed for the treatment of cytokine storm. Safety and efficacy of the proposed treatment should be assessed by randomised controlled clinical trials. The use of the proposed treatment is expected to reduce the mortality rate and alter the overall management of the pandemic.
An investigation of temperature-sensing textiles for temperature monitoring during sub-maximal cycling trials
Authors: Hughes-Riley Theodore , Jobling Philippa , Dias Tilak , Faulkner Steve H
Published: July 2020

Temperature-sensing textiles have been proposed for a variety of applications, including health monitoring and sports. Skin temperature ( Tsk) measurements are an important parameter in performance sports and can be used to better understand thermoregulation during exercise. Currently, most Tsk measurements are taken using skin-mounted thermistors, which can be uncomfortable to the wearer, or thermal imaging, which can be difficult to implement and analyze. This work investigates the feasibility of using textile temperature-sensing electronic yarns (E-yarns) to measure human skin temperature during sub-maximal cycling trials. E-yarns were attached to commercially available cycling suits and measurements were recorded using both the E-yarns and the skin-mounted thermistors at rest and during sub-maximal cycling. Temperature readings were compared between the two temperature-sensing methodologies to determine the viability of using the temperature-sensing E-yarns for this application. Differences in the Tsk measurements as high as 5.9℃ between the E-yarns and skin-mounted thermistors for participants at rest have been shown. This work has also identified that a build-up of sweat significantly altered the Tsk recorded by the E-yarns in some cases. Further experiments explored the effect of saline solutions (simulating sweat) on the response of the temperature-sensing E-yarns. This work has highlighted boundary conditions for taking point Tsk measurement using electronic textiles.
A pilot study to evaluate urine LAM assay for diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis among non-HIV patients
Authors: Gupta Akshita , Kumar Ajay , Ashraf Asem Ali , Madigubba Haritha , Chawla Kiran
Published: July 2020

There is a great need to improve diagnostic tools for tuberculosis where the majority are without HIV co-infection in resource-poor settings and high-burden areas such as India. The urine LAM assay has not hitherto been studied and may have a role to play. Our study found that, as a stand-alone diagnostic tool, the assay was suboptimal when compared to Xpert MTB/Rif. However, a combination of LAM assay along with sputum microscopy may be useful in settings where molecular testing is unavailable.
Opinions that matter: the hybridization of opinion and reputation measurement in social media listening software
Authors: Kotras Baptiste
Published: July 2020

Since the 2000s, numerous start-ups and agencies have argued for the necessity of analyzing social media data to ‘know what people think’, as they are deemed to provide access to spontaneous expression of thoughts, tastes, and representations. How do these actors, and the various types of knowledge and technology they draw upon, change the way we know and act upon people’s opinions? This article offers insight on these understudied actors, by describing the emergence in France of a market for measuring online opinion. It shows two distinct trajectories of innovation, and the key role played by the early clients of these companies and by the demand for tools for online reputation management in the shaping of these instruments, and the definition of epistemic value. Both approaches of online opinion break with the classical egalitarian conception of public opinion. They instead conceive opinion as a mediated and collective process in which not all opinions have an equal value.
The development of intent-based moral judgment and moral behavior in the context of indirect reciprocity: A cross-cultural study
Authors: Li Jing , Hou Wenwen , Zhu Liqi , Tomasello Michael
Published: July 2020

The current study aimed to investigate the cultural differences in the developmental origins of children’s intent-based moral judgment and moral behavior in the context of indirect reciprocity. To this end, we compared how German and Chinese children interpret and react to antisocial and prosocial interactions between puppets. An actor puppet performed either a positive or negative act toward a prosocial or antisocial target puppet with the intention to cause harm or not; 197 three and five-year-old children participated as a third party and were asked to judge the actor puppet’s behavior and to distribute stickers. Results showed that 3-year-old Chinese children were able to take intention and context into account when making moral judgments and distributing resources, whereas German children did not show sensitivity to intention until the age of 5. These findings suggest that culture may mediate children’s intent-based moral judgment and moral behavior in the context of indirect reciprocity.
Narcissism and mate retention behaviors: What strategies do narcissistic individuals use to maintain their romantic relationships?
Authors: Zeigler-Hill Virgil , Cosby Cheryl A. , Vrabel Jennifer K. , Southard Ashton C.
Published: July 2020

The present studies examined the possibility that narcissistic admiration (assertive self-enhancement and self-promotion) and narcissistic rivalry (self-protection and self-defense) would have divergent associations with benefit-provisioning and cost-inflicting mate retention behaviors. Study 1 ( N = 625) revealed that narcissistic admiration was associated with benefit-provisioning behaviors, whereas narcissistic rivalry was associated with cost-inflicting behaviors. Study 2 ( N = 349) showed that narcissistic admiration was positively associated with cost-inflicting behaviors when levels of suspicious jealousy were relatively high. Study 3 ( N = 373) revealed that both narcissistic admiration and narcissistic rivalry had positive indirect associations with cost-inflicting behaviors through the dominance-based orientation toward status. However, these aspects of narcissism had divergent indirect associations with cost-inflicting behaviors through the prestige-based orientation such that this indirect association was negative for narcissistic admiration but positive for narcissistic rivalry. These results demonstrate the similarities and important differences between narcissistic admiration and narcissistic rivalry with regard to the use of particular mate retention behaviors.
Choosing between theories: Can L3 acquisition really decide?
Authors: White Lydia
Published: July 2020

In this commentary, I question Westergaard’s argument that third language (L3) data can be used to decide between theories such as Full Transfer Full Access, involving wholesale transfer initially, and Full Transfer Potential, involving property-by-property transfer. I suggest that much L3 data will be amenable to explanation under either theory. Furthermore, it is not clear what kind of data would constitute counter-evidence to Full Transfer Potential.
Triage of patients with venous and lymphatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic – The Venous and Lymphatic Triage and Acuity Scale (VELTAS)
Authors: Parsi Kurosh , van Rij Andre M , Meissner Mark H , Davies Alun H , Maeseneer Marianne De , Gloviczki Peter , Benson Stephen , Bottini Oscar , Canata Victor Manuel , Dinnen Paul , Gasparis Antonios , Gianesini Sergio , Huber David , Jenkins David , Lal Brajesh K , Kabnick Lowell , Lim Adrian , Marston William , Granados Alberto Martinez , Morrison Nick , Nicolaides Andrew , Paraskevas Peter , Patel Malay , Roberts Stefania , Rogan Christopher , Schul Marlin W , Komlos Pedro , Stirling Andrew , Thibault Simon , Varghese Roy , Welch Harold J , Wittens Cees HA
Published: July 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic has resulted in diversion of healthcare resources to the management of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus. Elective interventions and surgical procedures in most countries have been postponed and operating room resources have been diverted to manage the pandemic. The Venous and Lymphatic Triage and Acuity Scale was developed to provide an international standard to rationalise and harmonise the management of patients with venous and lymphatic disorders or vascular anomalies. Triage urgency was determined based on clinical assessment of urgency with which a patient would require medical treatment or surgical intervention. Clinical conditions were classified into six categories of: (1) venous thromboembolism (VTE), (2) chronic venous disease, (3) vascular anomalies, (4) venous trauma, (5) venous compression and (6) lymphatic disease. Triage urgency was categorised into four groups and individual conditions were allocated to each class of triage. These included (1) medical emergencies (requiring immediate attendance), example massive pulmonary embolism; (2) urgent (to be seen as soon as possible), example deep vein thrombosis; (3) semi-urgent (to be attended to within 30–90 days), example highly symptomatic chronic venous disease, and (4) discretionary/non-urgent- (to be seen within 6–12 months), example chronic lymphoedema. Venous and Lymphatic Triage and Acuity Scale aims to standardise the triage of patients with venous and lymphatic disease or vascular anomalies by providing an international consensus-based classification of clinical categories and triage urgency. The scale may be used during pandemics such as the current COVID-19 crisis but may also be used as a general framework to classify urgency of the listed conditions.
Progressive Degenerative Myopathy and Myosteatosis in ASNSD1-Deficient Mice
Authors: Vogel Peter , Ding Zhi-Ming , Read Robert , DaCosta Christopher M. , Hansard Melissa , Small Daniel L. , Ye Gui-lan , Hansen Gwenn , Brommage Robert , Powell David R.
Published: July 2020

Mice with an inactivating mutation in the gene encoding asparagine synthetase domain containing 1 (ASNSD1) develop a progressive degenerative myopathy that results in severe sarcopenia and myosteatosis. ASNSD1 is conserved across many species, and whole body gene expression surveys show maximal expression levels of ASNSD1 in skeletal muscle. However, potential functions of this protein have not been previously reported. Asnsd1−/− mice demonstrated severe muscle weakness, and their normalized body fat percentage on both normal chow and high fat diets was greater than 2 SD above the mean for 3651 chow-fed and 2463 high-fat-diet–fed knockout (KO) lines tested. Histologic lesions were essentially limited to the muscle and were characterized by a progressive degenerative myopathy with extensive transdifferentiation and replacement of muscle by well-differentiated adipose tissue. There was minimal inflammation, fibrosis, and muscle regeneration associated with this myopathy. In addition, the absence of any signs of lipotoxicity in Asnsd1−/− mice despite their extremely elevated body fat percentage and low muscle mass suggests a role for metabolic dysfunctions in the development of this phenotype. Asnsd1−/− mice provide the first insight into the function of this protein, and this mouse model could prove useful in elucidating fundamental metabolic interactions between skeletal muscle and adipose tissue.
Scopic relations as spatial relations
Authors: Delaney David , Rannila Päivi
Published: July 2020

The aim of this paper is to elucidate the dynamic interplay of visuality, space and power through an analysis of what we call scopic relational spaces (SRS). Our primary claim is that scopic relations are intrinsically spatial relations and scopic practices are spatial practices. We contend that such analysis facilitates the discernment of significant socio-spatial processes and events that are otherwise unrecognized. We suggest that attention to the socio-spatial phenomena under investigation can contribute to debates about the alleged incommensurability of territorial and relational spatial imaginaries.
Towards an economic geography of FinTech
Authors: Lai Karen P.Y. , Samers Michael
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we identify the ways in which the existing literature has examined financial technology (FinTech). Using the frame of the ‘FinTech Cube’, we examine how FinTech unfolds through the intersections of key actors, technologies and institutions. We demonstrate the relevance of FinTech for two areas of geographical enquiry: i) the reshaping of global production and financial networks, and ii) financial inclusion and poverty reduction in poorer countries. In doing so, we accord particular attention to the significance of FinTech for theoretical and empirical research in economic geography.
Distraction of Connected Vehicle Human–Machine Interface for Truck Drivers
Authors: Yang Guangchuan , Ahmed Mohamed M. , Subedi Biraj
Published: July 2020

Connected vehicle (CV) technology aims to improve drivers’ situational awareness through audible and visual warnings, commonly displayed on a human–machine interface (HMI), thus reducing the likelihood of crashes caused by human error. Nevertheless, the presence of an in-vehicle CV HMI may pose an increasing threat to driver distraction, particularly for truck drivers and under high workload driving conditions. With this concern, this research investigated the effects of a HMI developed by the Wyoming Department of Transportation CV Pilot on truck drivers’ cognitive distraction and driving behavior through a driving simulator experiment. Revealed preference survey and vehicle dynamics data were employed to assess the cognitive distractions of the Pilot’s HMI. Simulation results indicated that when CV warnings were displayed on the HMI, they did not introduce significant effects on participants’ longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle. Nevertheless, from the revealed preference survey, it was found that approximately 27% of the participants indicated that the CV HMI tended to introduce additional visual workload for them, particularly when approaching an active freeway work zone under reduced visibility condition. In this regard, this research pointed out that the design of CV warnings and HMI displays needs to incorporate drivers’ ability to recognize and react safely to the received CV warnings to minimize the cognitive distractions introduced by the CV HMI.
Evidence from Highway Drivers in Greece Showing Toll Avoidance and Utility of Alternative Routes
Authors: Politis Ioannis , Kyriakoglou Michalis , Georgiadis Georgios , Papaioannou Panagiotis
Published: July 2020

Road tolling plays a significant role on highways’ financial sustainability since it consists the major revenue source. This paper aims to examine the factors that affect the drivers’ route choice and urge them to avoid toll roads when an alternative toll-free route is available. The paper presents the results of a case study that is dealing with the issue of toll avoidance at the last non-privatized highway of Greece, the Egnatia Odos (EO) road. Data from a combined revealed and stated preference survey were collected and binary choice models were built for car and truck drivers so as to determine the utility of alternative routes. The results show that travel cost and toll fees are critical route choice criteria for car drivers, while travel time is a key decision factor for truck drivers. The high safety standards for the toll route were appreciated by both categories of drivers. Additional trip and personal characteristics, such as gender, trip frequency, type of transported cargo, and total trip length also affect drivers’ choices. The elasticity of travel time and cost was estimated to shed light on drivers’ sensitiveness to the route attributes and it was found that truck drivers’ choices are greatly influenced by their working time schedules. These findings highlight the key factors that influence the utility of toll roads and therefore could assist highway authorities and concessionaires in developing successful toll pricing policies which will not act as a deterrent to the use of highways.
Resilience of Urban Street Network Configurations under Low Demands
Authors: Yu Zhengyao , Gayah Vikash V.
Published: July 2020

Urban street networks are subject to a variety of random disruptions. The impact of movement restrictions (e.g., one-way or left-turn restrictions) on the ability of a network to overcome these disruptions—that is, its resilience—has not been thoroughly studied. To address this gap, this paper investigates the resilience of one-way and two-way square grid street networks with and without left turns under light traffic conditions. Networks are studied using a simplified routing algorithm that can be examined analytically and a microsimulation that describes detailed vehicle dynamics. In the simplified method, routing choices are enumerated for all possible origin–destination (OD) combinations to identify how the removal of a link affects operations, both when knowledge of the disruption is and is not available at the vehicle’s origin. Disruptions on two-way networks that allow left turns tend to have little impact on travel distances because of the availability of multiple shortest paths between OD pairs and the flexibility in route modification. Two-way networks that restrict left turns at intersections only have a single shortest-distance path between any OD pair and thus experience larger increases in travel distance, even when the disruption is known ahead of time. One-way networks sometimes have multiple shortest-distance routes and thus travel distances increase less than two-way network without left turns when links are disrupted. These results reveal a clear tradeoff between improved efficiency and reduced resilience for networks that have movement restrictions, and can be used as a basis to study network resilience under more congested scenarios and in more realistic network structures.
Effects of Microbial Biomineralization Surface Erosion Control Treatments on Vegetation and Revegetation along Highways
Authors: Hodges Tasha M. , Lingwall Bret N.
Published: July 2020

Microbial induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has been widely studied in laboratories to test changes to soil strength and density. Rarely studied is the biogeotechnology’s influence on real-world conditions. Consideration for the natural environment coexisting with treated soil is important, particularly vegetative responses to biochemical and physical changes from treatments. In this factorial designed study, vegetative response from one-time biochemical surficial treatments is observed in four soil growth mediums: two variants burned soil, unburned side slope construction soil, and Ottawa sand. Treatment objectives are to create a light crust that provides short-term erosion control, protects concurrently applied seeds and provides a beneficial plant environment (BPE). The crust creates a BPE through increased soil water retention and shear soil strength allowing better root and plant stability. An overly dense crust prevents root penetration and is avoided because established root systems are crucial in long-term erosion control. This study successfully created such a crust in all soil types treated. Also studied were influences of solution components on germination rates. Component influence proved highly dependent on soil type as calcium chloride inclusion was highly detrimental to seedling success in clean sand, somewhat detrimental to burned soil with ash layer, insignificant in unburned soil, and beneficial to burned soil without ash layer. These results give an indication of the complex biochemical soil reactions occurring from MICP treatment. This study gives evidence that a one-time application of a seeded biochemical solution has real-world potential as a balanced short-term and long-term erosion control technology for burned and construction soils.
Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Stewart Donna E , MacMillan Harriet , Wathen Nadine
Published: July 2020

• IPV is an underrecognized problem that occurs in all countries, cultures, and socioeconomic groups. • IPV has an enormous impact on personal health, and economic and social well-being. • IPV may occur in heterosexual and LGBTQ relationships and may be perpetrated by either sex. • Canadian data from 1999 show about equal proportions of men and women had been victims of physical (seven and eight per cent, respectively) and psychological (18 and 19 per cent, respectively) IPV in the previous five years. • Exposure to IPV has deleterious effects on children and other family members. • Some populations are at greater risk or have special needs for IPV. These include immigrant women, Aboriginal women, LGBTQ communities, people with ALs, pregnant women, dating adolescents, older people, alcohol and other substance abusing people, low-income people, and those without a current partner (that is, IPV perpetrated by a former partner). • Mental health problems associated with IPV include depression, anxiety disorders, chronic pain syndromes, eating disorders, sleep disorders, psychosomatic disorders, alcohol and other substance abuse, suicidal and self-harm behaviours, nonaffective psychosis, some personality disorders, and harmful health behaviours, such as risk taking and smoking. As IPV is a major determinant of mental health, it is of vital importance to mental health professionals. • Physical health problems associated with IPV include death, a broad range of injuries, reproductive disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain syndromes, fibromyalgia, poor physical functioning, and lower health-related quality of life. Sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies and physical inactivity are also increased. • Children's exposure to IPV may have short- and long-term health impacts on the child, especially mental health effects. • Perpetrators of IPV most frequently have personality disorders, but substance abuse and other types of mental illness or brain dysfunction may also occur.