bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Exercise Tolerance and Cardiac Function in Heart Failure Patients Undergoing Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Chen Zhang-bing , Fan Liu-bo , Liu Ya-jing , Zheng Ya-ru
Published: November 2019

Objective. To evaluate the effects of cardiac rehabilitation on exercise tolerance and cardiac function in heart failure patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Methods. Randomized controlled trials were initially identified from systematic reviews of the literature about cardiac rehabilitation and heart failure patients with CRT. We undertook updated literature searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, EMBASE, CBM, CNKI, and Wanfang databases until July 1, 2017. STATA12.0 software was used. Results. Four randomized controlled studies were included. The total sample size was 157 patients, including 77 in the control group. Cardiac rehabilitation treatment affected the peak VO2 in heart failure patients with CRT (Pheterogeneity=0.491, I2 = 0%). The results lacked heterogeneity, and the data were merged in a fixed-effects model (WMD = 2.17 ml/kg/min, 95% CI (1.42, 2.92), P<0.001). The peak VO2 was significantly higher in the cardiac rehabilitation group than in the control group. The sensitivity analysis showed that the results of the meta-analysis were robust. Cardiac rehabilitation treatment affected LVEF in heart failure patients with CRT (Pheterogeneity=0.064, I2 = 63.6%); the heterogeneity among the various research results meant that the data were merged in a random-effects model (WMD = 4.75%, 95% CI (1.53, 7.97), P=0.004). The LVEF was significantly higher in the cardiac rehabilitation group than in the control group. The sources of heterogeneity were analyzed, and it was found that one of the studies was the source of significant heterogeneity. After the elimination of that study, the data were reanalyzed, and the heterogeneity was significantly reduced. There were still significant differences in the WMD and 95% CI. Conclusion. Cardiac rehabilitation can improve exercise tolerance and cardiac function in heart failure patients with CRT. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether these beneficial effects of cardiac rehabilitation may translate into an improvement in long-term clinical outcomes among these patients.
Investigation on Monitoring System for Pantograph and Catenary Based on Condition‐Based Recognition of Pantograph
Authors: Zhou Ning , Yang Wenjie , Liu Jiurui , Zhang Weihua , Wang Dong
Published: November 2019

In recent years, the length of electrified railway systems has increased along with the number of railway vehicles in China. For the pantograph‐catenary system, as one of the key components of the vehicle system, an urgent problem includes diagnosing faults and proposing a safety monitoring system to assure safe operation, improve the level of detection, and decrease the cost of maintenance and repairs. For the monitoring system based on the pantograph, the design process, whole architecture, function module, fault diagnosis method, and monitoring scheme have been investigated. Two specified faults were introduced to describe how to develop such a monitoring scheme based on the pantograph condition‐based recognition.
Accelerated Hyperfractionated Radiotherapy versus Conventional Fractionation Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhu Bo , Kou Changgui , Bai Wei , Yu Weiying , Zhang Lili , Yu Xiao , Xu Wen , Wang Huanhuan , Xin Ying , Jiang Xin
Published: November 2019

Objective. The benefits of accelerated hyperfractionated radiotherapy (HART) and conventional fractionation radiotherapy (CFRT) in the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) remain controversial. In this study, we analyzed the therapeutic effects of these two treatment regimens to explore whether HART can improve the overall survival (OS) rate and locoregional control (LRC) rate in patients with HNC. Methods. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases were searched for eligible studies. The OS rate and LRC rate were considered as the efficacy outcomes. I2 was used to test the heterogeneity among studies with a cutoff value of 50%. Potential publication bias was assessed by funnel plots and Egger’s test. We also performed a sensitivity analysis to assess the stability of the results. In this meta-analysis, all analyses were performed using R 3.5.3 software. Results. Twelve qualified articles including a total of 2,935 patients were identified. HART had a significant beneficial effect on OS rate (HR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.65–0.98). Compared with CFRT, HART demonstrated a significantly higher LRC rate (HR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.71–0.96). Conclusion. Our meta-analysis showed that HART can significantly improve OS and LRC compared with CFRT in patients with HNC.
Validation of MR-Based Attenuation Correction of a Newly Released Whole-Body Simultaneous PET/MR System
Authors: Liu Guobing , Cao Tuoyu , Hu Lingzhi , Zheng Jiaxu , Pang Lifang , Hu Pengcheng , Gu Yushen , Shi Hongcheng
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to validate quantitative performance of a newly released simultaneous positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, by using MR-based attenuation correction (MRAC), both in phantom study and in patient study. PET/MRI image uniformities of a phantom under different hardware configurations were tested and compared. Thirty patients were examined with 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) PET/computed tomography (CT) and subsequent PET/MRI. PET images from PET/MRI were corrected with MRAC (PETMR), CT-based attenuation maps (μ-maps, PETCT), and segmented CT μ-maps (PETCTSeg) derived from PET/CT. Standardized uptake values (SUVs) were compared among the 3 sets of PET in main organs (bone, liver and lung) and in 52 FDG-avid lesions, including soft-tissue lesions and bone lesions. The result showed that PET imaging uniformities of PET/MRI under different configurations were good (<8.8%). The SUV differences among the 3 sets of PET varied with organs and lesion types. In detail, the mean relative differences of SUV between PETMR and PETCT were as follows: −18.8%, bone (SUVmean); −8.0%, liver (SUVmean); −12.2%, lung (SUVmean); −18.1%, bone lesions (SUVmean); −13.3%, bone lesions (SUVmax); −8.2%, soft-tissue lesions (SUVmean); and −7.3%, soft-tissue lesions (SUVmax). The mean relative differences between PETMR and PETCTSeg were as follows: −19.0%, bone (SUVmean); −3.5%, liver (SUVmean); −3.3%, lung (SUVmean); −19.3%, bone lesions (SUVmean); −17.5%, bone lesions (SUVmax); −5.5%, soft-tissue lesions (SUVmean); and −4.4%, soft-tissue lesions (SUVmax). The differences of SUV between PETMR and PETCT were larger than those between PETMR and PETCTSeg, in both soft tissue and soft-tissue lesions (P<0.001), but not in bone or bone lesions. In conclusion, MRAC in the newly released PET/MR system is accurate in most tissues, with SUV deviations being generally less than 10%, compared to PET/CT. In bone, however, underestimations can be substantial, which may be partially attributed to segmentation of the MR-based μ-maps.
Outcome of Pregnancies Diagnosed with TRAP Sequence Prenatally: A Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Shettikeri Anitha , Acharya Veena , V Shailaja , Sahana Reeth , Radhakrishnan Prathima
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence is a phenomenon seen in 1–3% of monochorionic twin pregnancies, where the acardiac fetus is found to have multiple anomalies. The normal pump twin maintains its own perfusion in addition to that of its acardiac co-twin. As a result, if the acardiac twin increases in size, the burden on the pump twin is increased, leading to cardiac failure, hydrops fetalis, polyhydramnios, premature delivery, and perinatal death. The outcome of pregnancy is largely dependent on the growth of the acardiac twin. In view of high perinatal loss, surgical techniques to interrupt the blood flow to the acardiac twin have been evaluated. Methods: We evaluated interstitial laser therapy, which is the main mode of therapy in our unit, of TRAP pregnancies referred over a 5-year period. Interstitial laser was offered if the blood flow in the acardiac twin was found to be persistent at 2 consecutive examinations or if there were cardiac or hydropic changes in the pump twin at the first examination. Results: A total of 18 cases of TRAP were referred during this period and all were counselled regarding fetal therapy if the situation were to deteriorate; 5 couples (27.7%) opted for termination of pregnancy; of the remaining 13, 7 (53.8%) agreed to perform intervention following confirmation of a normal karyotype. Six (85.7%) and 1 (14.3%) lasers were performed in the second and third trimesters, respectively; all 7 had a normal outcome of the pump twin. There were 6/13 (46.2%) in the expectant group who continued the pregnancy with no intervention, with 2 term live births (33.3%). Conclusions: Our study confirms that there is a high risk of spontaneous loss in untreated pregnancies with TRAP, primarily due to polyhydramnios and fetal hydrops. In the pregnancies that underwent interstitial laser, there was a more favourable outcome. Interstitial laser is minimally invasive, safe, and feasible in experienced hands.
Diagnostic Value of Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Vessel Wall Imaging on the Onset Type of Vertebral Artery Dissection
Authors: Saito Atsushi , Fujimura Miki , Endo Hidenori , Omodaka Shunsuke , Kanoke Atsushi , Sato Kenichi , Tominaga Teiji
Published: November 2019

Background: Circumferential enhancement along the aneurysm wall (CEAW) by magnetic resonance (MR) vessel wall imaging has been reported to be a useful indicator for the biological activity of intracranial aneurysms such as growth and rupture. However, the significance of CEAW in vertebral artery dissection (VAD) has not been examined in detail. We quantitatively analyzed CEAW on VAD focusing on the differences in the clinical onset type. Methods: The subjects were 37 patients diagnosed with VAD who were evaluated by MR imaging in the acute phase of onset between January 2014 and May 2019. The clinical onset of VAD was categorized into 3 subtypes: (1) incidentally detected (incidental group), (2) sudden headache without cerebral ischemia and/or intracranial hemorrhage (headache group), and (3) hemorrhagic onset (hemorrhage group). Three-dimensional T1-weighted fast spin echo sequences were obtained before and after contrast material injection, and the contrast ratio (CR) of the aneurysm wall against the pituitary stalk was calculated as the indicator of CEAW. Results: The CR values of VAD in the hemorrhage group were significantly higher than those in the headache group (0.95 vs. 0.65, p < 0.05), and the headache group had significantly higher CR values than the incidental group (0.65 vs. 0.56, p < 0.05). On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cutoff value of CR to distinguish the hemorrhage group from the headache group was 0.83 and that to distinguish the headache group from the incidental group was 0.61. Conclusion: The extent of CEAW precisely reflected the deleterious impact of VAD in the acute stage, including hemorrhagic presentation. The predictive value of CEAW for the prognosis of unruptured VAD should be evaluated in future studies.
Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome Phenotype in a Case with de novo KRAS Pathogenic Variant
Authors: Sanri Aslihan , Gurkan Hakan , Demir Selma
Published: November 2019

Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome is one of the developmental disorders caused by a dysregulation of the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. RASopathies share overlapping clinical features, making the diagnosis challenging, especially in the newborn period. The majority of CFC syndrome cases arise by a mutation in the BRAF, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, or (rarely) KRAS genes. Germline KRAS mutations are identified in a minority of CFC and Noonan syndrome cases. Here, we describe a patient with a KRAS mutation presenting with a CFC syndrome phenotype. The female patient was referred for genetic testing because of congenital exophthalmos. Her facial appearance is distinctive with a coarse face, exophthalmos, ptosis, downslanting palpebral fissures, hypertelorism, deep philtrum, downturned corners of the mouth, and a short neck. She suffered from feeding difficulties, poor weight gain, and developmental delay. The sequencing of the genes involved in the MAPK pathway (PTPN11, SOS1, RAF1, KRAS, NRAS, MAP2K1, SHOC2, CBL, and SPRED1) identified a heterozygous de novo NM_004985.4:c.173C>T (p.Thr58Ile) in the KRAS gene. Germline KRAS mutations have been identified in approximately 2% of the reported NS cases and less than 5% of the reported CFC syndrome cases. Because CFC and Noonan syndrome share clinical overlapping features, the phenotype caused by KRAS mutations is often difficult to assign to one of the 2 entities. The mutation that we detected in our patient was previously reported in a patient with an Noonan syndrome phenotype. However, our patient predominantly exhibits CFC clinical features. In our case, coarse facial appearance and severe developmental delay help discriminate CFC from Noonan syndrome. Thus, patient follow-up, especially for delayed motor milestones suspected from RASopathies, is important for the discrimination of overlapping conditions as in the abovementioned syndromes.
Does the Use of Low Osmolality Contrast Medium Reduce the Frequency of Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis: A Comparative Study between Use of Low and High Osmolality Contrast Media
Authors: Nagashima Kazunori , Ijima Masashi , Kimura Kouichirou , Kurihara Eishin , Tominaga Keiichi , Fukushi Koh , Kanamori Akira , Otake Yosuke , Irisawa Atsushi
Published: November 2019

Introduction: A few reports stating that differences in the various types of contrast media injected into the pancreatic duct are related to the onset of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) have been published, and it was indicated that iodixanol which is a nonionic iodide radiographic contrast medium with a dimeric (2 dimers) structure may reduce the incidence of PEP. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the usefulness of iodaxanol for prevention PEP in comparison with megulamine amidototrizoate. Methods: Two hundred and ninety-one patients were enrolled and divided into the 2 groups according to the contrast medium used. One hundred and fifty-five patients underwent ERCP with meglumine amidotrizoate, and 136 patients underwent ERCP with iodaxanol. The primary outcome of this study was the incidence of PEP associated with the use of each contrast medium. Results: In this study, comparison of the meglumine amidotrizoate treatment and iodaxanol treatment groups showed no significant difference with respect to the incidence of PEP. In addition, there was also no difference between the groups with respect to PEP severity. Conclusion: Our study suggested that iodaxanol does not necessarily contribute to the prevention of PEP in comparison with meglumine amidotrizoate.
A female perspective: testing the effects of noise masking on signal transmission patterns inside the nest box
Authors: Grabarczyk Erin E. , Gill Sharon A.
Published: November 2019

During the breeding season, avian pairs coordinate interactions with songs and calls. For cavity nesting birds, females inside nest boxes may rely on male vocalizations for information. Anthropogenic noise masks male songs, which could affect information gained by females. We explored song transmission from a female house wren (Troglodytes aedon) perspective, testing the hypothesis that noise masking alters songs that reach females inside nest boxes. We broadcast songs at three distances up to 25 m from nest boxes and re-recorded songs using two microphones, positioned inside and outside nest boxes. We measured signal-to-noise ratios and cross-correlation factors to estimate the effects of masking on transmission. In noise, songs received inside nest boxes had lower signal-to-noise ratios and cross-correlation factors than songs recorded outside of boxes, and these effects decreased with distance. For females, noise may reduce information conveyed through male songs and in response pairs may need to adjust their interactions.
International Procedural Regulation in the Common Interest: The Role of Third-Party Intervention and Amicus Curiae before the ICJ
Authors: Almeida Paula Wojcikiewicz
Published: November 2019

By adjudicating inter-State claims, international courts can also contribute to the protection and promotion of community interests. However, the main obstacle faced by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) relates to the existing tension between the bilateral nature of its own proceedings and the multilateral nature of the conflicting substantive law. As procedure may guide and shape the application of substantive law, it should itself be interpreted and developed in a manner to ensure community interests. By using its power to “frame rules for carrying out its functions”, the Court should assume expanded procedural powers in order to ensure the effective application of substantive law whenever community interests are at issue. Most procedural rules can be adjusted for multiparty aspects, notably the rules on third-party intervention, with the aim of protecting community interests and enhancing the Court’s legitimacy. It is up to the Court to find the balance between States’ rights and commonly aspired goals.
Judeo-Isfahani: The Iranian Language of the Jews of Isfahan
Authors: Borjian Habib
Published: November 2019

This article studies the native language of the Isfahani Jewish community. A description of the provenance of the community is followed by the sociolinguistic situation in the diaspora. The language description includes phonology and morphosyntax, with an emphasis on poorly studied features. The article is supplemented with texts and a glossary. The data was collected in Isfahan and from the diaspora community in New York City.
Comparative culm anatomy of metaxylem vessel pits in three different types of bamboo rhizome
Authors: Luo Junji , Liu Rong , Zhang Shuqin , Lian Caiping , Yang Feng , Fei Benhua
Published: November 2019

Not only are vessel pits vital for the passage of sap into adjacent cells, but their anatomical morphology is also used as a tool to identify bamboo species. However, detailed studies comparing the pits’ structural parameters in culms of species with three rhizome types: sympodial bamboo, amphipodial bamboo, and monopodial bamboo, are lacking. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations were conducted to obtain the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of vessel pits in sympodial, amphipodial and monopodial bamboos, from twelve bamboo species in eight genera. Sympodial bamboos possess small and ovoid bordered pits, whereas amphipodial bamboos contain an abundance of slit-like pits, with the greatest pit membrane length occurring in the vessel wall. Both minute and large pit sizes can be found in monopodial bamboos. This study identified the first compound pits ever to be found in a bamboo species and these were found to occur more frequently in amphipodial and monopodial bamboos than in sympodial bamboos. Using the distribution frequency of the pit chamber’s horizontal diameter, we were able to determine pit size as being either small, medium or large. The striking differences in the vessel pits’ qualitative and quantitative characteristics could be the result of different climate and environmental factors.
The Political Police and the Emigration Industry in Portugal During the 1930s
Authors: Santos Yvette
Published: November 2019

This article aims to examine the practices for policing emigration from Portugal. In particular, the police culture associated with the surveillance and repression of the activities of emigration intermediaries – passage and passport agents – in the first years of the Portuguese dictatorship (1933–1939) will be analysed. In a context of organised departures in a still liberalised market, we will see how the political police, the Polícia de Vigilância e de Defesa do Estado (pvde – State Defence and Surveillance Police), became the main entity responsible for dealing with the activities of these agents and how it carried out its duties, taking into account its relation to the political and ideological purposes of the Portuguese dictatorship.
Galeatylinae, a new subfamily of Atylidae for Galeatylus coripes, new genus and species, from the Bass Strait, south-eastern Australia (Amphipoda, Dexaminoidea)
Authors: JUST JEAN
Published: November 2019

Galeatylinae, a new subfamily in the Atylidae, for Galeatylus coripes new genus and species, is reported from the Bass Strait in the south-east of Australia. This is the first record of the Atylidae from Australia.
A new subspecies of Araragi panda Hsu & Chou (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae, Theclini) from Sichuan, western China
Authors: HSU YU-FENG , LI AI-MIN
Published: November 2019

Araragi panda sichuanensis Hsu & Li, subsp. nov. (Theclinae: Theclini) is described from Baoxing, Sichuan Province of western China, the type locality of the Giant Panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca. The present article also clarifies the identity of the hostplant for A. panda previously mis-identified. It should be the wheel wingnut (Cyclocarya paliurus) instead of the iron walnut (Juglans sigllata) recorded in literature. C. paliurus is sometimes called “the Giant Panda in plant kingdom” in China.
Application of Gold Nanoparticles with 1,6-Hexanedithiol Modified Screen-Printed Carbon Electrode as a Sensor for Determination of Arsenic in Environmental Samples
Authors: Etorki A. M. , Awin Labib A. , El-Rais M. , Elhabbat M. S. , Shaban I. S.
Published: November 2019

We have described the development of electrochemical nano sensor for the detection of total arsenic in groundwater, soil, food and honey samples based on the formation of gold nanoparticles. Screen printed carbon electrodes were modified with gold nanoparticles and linked with 1,6-hexanedithiol
self-assembled monolayers. The electrodeposition of Au nanoparticles was applied in 10 mL of the solution that totally cover the screen-printed carbon electrode while applying a constant potential of –0.4 V (vs. Ag within SPCE) for 600 sec. Cyclic voltammetry was used to characterize
the gold nanoparticles before and after modified with 1,6-hexanedithiol self-assembled monolayers on screen printed carbon electrode. Square wave anodic stripping voltammetry with multi point standard addition method was examined for the detection of As(III) and As(V) on Au NPs-1,6-hexanedithiol
modified screen printed carbon electrode under optimized conditions. As(III) and As(V) was firstly, deposited for 60 seconds by the reduction of arsenic in buffer solution: (citric acid, sodium chloride and ascorbic acid pH 2.0), followed by As stripping between –0.20 and 0.35 V at the
following parameters: scan rate: 100 mV s–1, frequency: 60 Hz, amplitude: 0.025 V and increment: 5.0 mV. it was found that Au-NPs with 1,6-hexanedithiol modified screen-printed carbon electrode had a highest anodic stripping peak current at 0.201 V. The limit of detection
value for arsenic was identified to be 1.7 ng ml –1. Also, the electrochemical nanosensor showed excellent reproducibility and high stability. The developed method was successfully applied to detect total arsenic in ground water, soil and honey samples.
Supporting Disaster Relief Efforts Internationally: A Call to Counseling Psychologists
Authors: Inman Arpana G. , Gerstein Lawrence H. , Wang Ying-Fen , Iwasaki Michiko , Gregerson Mary , Rouse Leah M. , Dingman Sherry , Ferreira Joaquim A. , Watanabe-Muraoka Agnes , Jacobs Sue C.
Published: November 2019

The increased occurrence of natural and human-made disasters has led to a greater call for culturally sensitive engagement in disaster mental health. In this article, we aim to stimulate culturally focused participation and competence among counseling psychologists who engage in disaster mental health work. Framed within an ecological and systemic interaction of individual, cultural, community, and structural factors, the article is based on two cross-cultural competency models emphasizing, cultural intelligence, language proficiency, cognitive complexity and flexibility, and highly developed interpersonal and communication skills, in the planning and delivery of disaster relief services. In particular, we address (a) specific cultural challenges, (b) skills and competencies needed, and (c) recommendations for online resources, that are relevant to counseling psychologists who seek to promote emotional resiliency in individuals and communities impacted by a disaster.
Working Globally: Advancing International Competencies in Counseling Psychology
Authors: Nilsson Johanna E. , Wang Li-fei , Chung Y. Barry
Published: November 2019

This major contribution presents results from a presidential initiative undertaken by Y. Barry Chung during his year as the president of the Society of Counseling Psychology to advance cross-cultural collaboration and promote understanding of international competencies in psychology. This initiative brought together 72 psychological professionals from 23 countries to address issues salient to the global field of counseling psychology. We utilized two models of international competencies to frame these issues, namely the dynamic-systemic-process model of international competencies and the cross-national cultural competence model. The introductory article reviews international efforts in counseling psychology and provides an overview of the three subsequent articles. The second article addresses how historical, economic, and sociopolitical events have shaped the development of counseling psychology in different countries. The third article discusses social justice competencies from an international perspective, and the fourth article focuses on development of competencies for international disaster mental health work.
Creating Catholic Regenerative Medicine Organizations in a Secular Biotechnology Field: A Physician-Scientist Experience
Authors: Moy Alan
Published: November 2019

One aspect of the progressive secularization of biotechnology is the use of the by-products from abortion and the use of human embryos. These morally illicit cells and tissue create a significant moral and economic challenge for Catholics at different stages of their career. A practicing Catholic physician or scientific professional will face the dilemma of how to reconcile their Catholic identity with their profession. While the Catechism is clear on what actions Catholics should not pursue, there has been less religious guidance on what activities Catholics should proactively pursue in their professional life to advance the Catholic culture. This essay will examine these themes through the lens of a true story of the author’s experience in starting Catholic for-profit and nonprofit biotechnology organizations.

Abortion and the destruction of human embryos create a moral dilemma for Catholics at different stages of a physician or scientist's career. A practicing Catholic physician or scientist must reconcile their Catholic identity with their profession. While there is little professional guidance on how to advance the culture, Jesus says that one must take up the cross and direct their God-given gifts towards His name. The only way to succeed and thrive in a secular healthcare environment is to emulate Jesus by putting aside their own self-interest; pray for courage against ridicule; accept risk; and pursue scientific and medical excellence.
Proportionality and Its Alternatives
Authors: Stone Adrienne
Published: November 2019

This article examines the claim that the adoption of structured proportionality analysis is not well suited to the Australian constitutional context and argues that this claim is mistaken. Structured proportionality analysis is sometimes associated with a strong commitment to fundamental constitutional rights which is, it is conceded, foreign to Australia. However, structured proportionality can also be understood merely as a method of analysis which changes the High Court’s previous approach only slightly. This argument clears the way for the adoption of proportionality in Australia. However, it is also argued that the positive case for its adoption is inconclusive. Proportionality promises an increase in transparency by isolating the balancing element of the analysis. However, it is unclear how much difference this somewhat minor adjustment will make in practice and those advantages must, in any event, be measured against the cost of distraction and confusion created by doctrinal innovation. Finally, the article addresses ‘calibrated scrutiny’, Gageler J’s preferred form of analysis. It is argued that this approach offers some advantages. However, it need not be seen as an alternative to the proportionality method. On the contrary, the two approaches could be reconciled and a form of proportionality used as a manner for better development of the law.
Maternal and Paternal Cognitive Engagement and Children’s Literacy Skills in 25 African Countries
Authors: Dede Yildirim Elif , Roopnarine Jaipaul L.
Published: November 2019

There is increasing interest in promoting positive parenting to improve childhood development in low- and middle-income countries. Following propositions in parenting and cultural-ecological frameworks about the importance of early parent-child engagement in fostering children’s literacy skills, we used the UNICEF Multiple Indicator Surveys to assess the associations between maternal and paternal book reading, storytelling, and naming/counting and early literacy skills in 90,397 families and their preschool-aged children in 25 low- and middle-income African countries. Individual participant data meta-analysis indicated strong associations between maternal and paternal engagement in reading, storytelling, and naming/counting and children’s letter recognition, reading simple words, and recognizing symbols. Preschool enrollment and maternal education consistently moderated the associations between maternal and paternal engagement activities and children’s literacy skills. These findings are in agreement with those found in the high-income countries and have implications for the transferability of parenting practices from high-income to low- and middle-income countries in efforts to improve the early academic skills of young children.
Endoscopic Resection of Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma: A Multivariate Retrospective Analysis of Factors Affecting Recurrence and Persistence
Authors: Minni Antonio , Gera Roberto , Bulgheroni Chiara , Ralli Massimo , Cialente Fabrizio , Candelori Francesca , Mevio Niccolò , Dragonetti Alberto
Published: November 2019

Sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) is the most common benign epithelial tumor in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, with a worldwide incidence between 0.6 and 1.5/100 000 persons per year. However, only a few studies have investigated patient-dependent factors related to IP recurrence and persistence. According to available evidence, these factors are still debated, and results are contradictory. In this multicenter retrospective study, we analyzed the clinical records of 130 patients who were surgically treated for sinonasal IP to evaluate the factors affecting recurrence and persistence of IP and compared the curative rates of different surgical approaches. Our analysis showed that IP recurrence is strongly related to specific risk factors including incomplete surgical removal, stage of disease, site of the lesion, surgical technique, and malignancy rate. In conclusion, the recurrence of IP may be affected by several risk factors; these factors must be carefully considered during clinical evaluation and especially during the follow-up of patients with IP.
The reproducibility and responsiveness of subjective assessment of upper limb associated reactions in people with acquired brain injury during walking
Authors: Kahn Michelle B , Clark Ross A , Bower Kelly J , Mentiplay Benjamin F , Yong Hao Pua , Olver John , Williams Gavin
Published: November 2019

Objective:

The aim of this study is to determine inter-rater, test–retest and intra-rater reproducibility and responsiveness of subjective assessment of upper limb associated reactions in people with acquired brain injury using (1) the ‘Qualifiers Scale’ of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework, and (2) visually estimated elbow flexion angle during walking.

Design:

Observational study.

Setting:

A brain injury rehabilitation centre, Melbourne, Australia.

Subjects:

People with acquired brain injury and upper limb associated reactions and experienced neurological physiotherapists.

Main measures:

The Qualifiers Scale applied to individual upper limb joints and global associated reaction on a 5-point scale (0–4), a summed upper limb severity score and visually estimated elbow flexion angle.

Results:

A total of 42 people with acquired brain injury (mean age: 48.4 ± 16.5 years) were videoed walking at self-selected and fast speeds. A subset of 30 chronic brain injury participants (mean time post injury: 8.2 ± 9.3 years) were reassessed one week later for retest reproducibility. Three experienced neurological physiotherapists (mean experience: 22.7 ± 9.1 years) viewed these videos and subjectively rated the upper limb associated reactions. Strong-to-very strong test–retest, intra- and inter-rater reproducibility was found for elbow flexion angle (ICC > 0.86) and the Qualifiers Scale applied to global and individual upper limb joints (ICC > 0.60). Responsiveness of change from self-selected to fast walking speed (mean increase 0.46 m/s) was highest for elbow flexion angle (effect size = 0.83) and low-to-moderate for the Qualifiers Scale.

Conclusion:

Subjectively rated associated reactions during walking demonstrated strong reproducibility and moderate responsiveness to speed change. The Qualifiers Scale and elbow flexion angle can both subjectively quantify associated reactions during walking in a clinical setting.
Effects of ECE-1b rs213045 and rs2038089 polymorphisms on the development of contrast-induced acute kidney injury in patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Dalgic Sadiye Nur , Yilmaz Aydogan Hulya , Ozturk Oguz , Pence Sadrettin , Kanca Demirci Deniz , Abaci Okay , Kocas Cuneyt , Dalgic Yalcin , Bostan Cem , Yildiz Ahmet
Published: November 2019

Objective

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) promotes the progression and induction of sclerotic renal changes in end-stage kidney disease. Membrane-bound endothelin-converting enzyme 1 (ECE-1) is involved in the production of ET-1. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of ECE-1b rs213045 and rs2038089 polymorphisms, which have been shown to be involved in the development of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and nephropathy, on the development of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods

Our study included 38 patients with CI-AKI (CI-AKI[+]) and 55 patients without CI-AKI (CI-AKI[−]) who had coronary syndrome. The ECE-1b polymorphisms rs213045 and rs2038089 were assessed using real-time PCR. Serum ET-1 levels were measured by ELISA.

Results

The distributions of ECE-1b rs213045 and rs2038089 polymorphisms were similar between the two groups. Additionally, the serum ET-1 level did not different between the groups and was not associated with the ECE-1b polymorphisms. Peri-procedural low systolic blood pressure (SBP) was identified as a risk factor for CI-AKI development.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that ECE-1b rs213045 and rs2038089 polymorphisms are not associated with CI-AKI development and that peri-procedural low SBP is a risk factor for CI-AKI. However, variations in ECE-1b rs2038089 may contribute to the development of CI-AKI.
Bioinformatics analysis reveals 6 key biomarkers associated with non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Dai Bai , Ren Li-qing , Han Xiao-yu , Liu Dong-jun
Published: November 2019

Objective

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for >85% of lung cancers, and its incidence is increasing. We explored expression differences between NSCLC and normal cells and predicted potential target sites for detection and diagnosis of NSCLC.

Methods

Three microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database were analyzed using GEO2R. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis were conducted. Then, the String database, Cytoscape, and MCODE plug-in were used to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and screen hub genes. Overall and disease-free survival of hub genes were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves, and the relationship between expression patterns of target genes and tumor grades were analyzed and validated. Gene set enrichment analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to verify enrichment pathways and diagnostic performance of hub genes.

Results

In total, 293 differentially expressed genes were identified and mainly enriched in cell cycle, ECM–receptor interaction, and malaria. In the PPI network, 36 hub genes were identified, of which 6 were found to play significant roles in carcinogenesis of NSCLC: CDC20, ECT2, KIF20A, MKI67, TPX2, and TYMS.

Conclusion

The identified target genes can be used as biomarkers for the detection and diagnosis of NSCLC.
Materializations through political work
Authors: Brichzin Jenni
Published: November 2019

This article investigates the opposition between politics and work in common political understandings by engaging with the materiality of politics in parliaments. It demonstrates the need for current research on politics to deal with problems similar to those faced by early laboratory studies investigating scientific practice. At the same time, the paper highlights a crucial difference between research on science and research on politics: The common understanding of politics appears to face an influential double bind, with truthful rationality on one side and democratic legitimacy on the other. In an effort to overcome this double bind, political work is introduced as a form of work that deals with transitions between matters of fact and matters of concern by materializing forceful ideas. Ethnographic research on four parliamentary levels in Germany retraces how political actors struggle to produce these forceful ideas, which have the ability to assemble groups and move people. By dealing with the plethora of vastly diverse matters of concern populating parliaments, parliamentary actors resort to rapid shifts between different work modes, namely the political game, the settling of issues, and political composition. Each of these modes engages differently with the main resources – the law, the positions of political opponents, scientific facts and narrations – to materialize political ideas and thus aims to shift the composition of reality.
Antibacterial properties and release kinetics of chlorhexidine diacetate from montmorillonite and palygorskite clays
Authors: Lobato-Aguilar Héctor A , Lizama-Uc Gabriel , Uribe-Calderon Jorge A , Cauich-Rodriguez Juan , Rodriguez-Fuentes Nayeli , Cervantes-Uc J Manuel
Published: November 2019

Organoclays were prepared by means of cation-exchange reactions using different concentrations of chlorhexidine diacetate and two different types of clays: montmorillonite and palygorskite. The antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli was evaluated by means of disk diffusion tests as well as through bacterial growth inhibition (monitored by optical density measurements) in Luria broth media. Results indicate that modified palygorskites showed a greater antibacterial activity than those exhibited by modified montmorillonite, as latter only displayed antibacterial properties at the highest chlorhexidine diacetate loading. Modeling of chlorhexidine release was also performed and the models best described the drug release phenomena depended on the type of clay; being the Higuchi model and Korsemeyer–Peppas model for montmorillonite, whereas the zero-order model and Korsemeyer–Peppas model for palygorskite.
Moving beyond the obsession with nudging individual behaviour: Towards a broader understanding of Behavioural Public Policy
Authors: Ewert Benjamin
Published: November 2019

Behavioural interventions are much more than ‘just another policy tool’. Indeed, the use of behavioural science has the potential to lead to a wide-ranging reassessment of policymaking and public administration. However, Behavioural Public Policy remains a policy paradigm ‘under construction’. This paper seeks to contribute to this development process by investigating the conceptual features of advanced Behavioural Public Policy that go beyond the now familiar notion of nudging individual behavioural change. It thus seeks to provide more illumination in a debate which currently seems to have become stuck on the pro and cons of nudging citizens’ individual behaviours. In reality, Behavioural Public Policy should be seen as a pluralist, non-deterministic and multipurpose approach that allows the application of behavioural insights ‘throughout the policy process’ and in combination with regulatory policies. The paper’s line of argument unfolds in three steps. First, it explores the policy rationales that have driven nudge techniques and also summarises the conceptual, methodological, ethical and ideological criticisms that have made of it. In a second step, state-of-the-art Behavioural Public Policy, which claims to be more substantial and wide-ranging than today’s nudge techniques, is empirically examined through interviews conducted with global thinkers (academics and practitioners) in the field of behavioural insights. Finally, there is a discussion of whether advanced Behavioural Public Policy could be better suited to withstand the criticisms that have been directed at nudge techniques.
Nondestructive monitoring of damage caused by accelerated ageing in photovoltaic modules
Authors: Berardone Irene , Paggi Marco
Published: November 2019

Accelerated ageing tests of photovoltaic laminates are requested by the IEC standards for quality control, which require the assessment of the electrical power losses after a prescribed amount of temperature and/or humidity cycles inside a climatic chamber (thermal cycling, humidity freeze, and damp heat tests). Since electric damage is measured only at the end of such tests, its kinetics induced by thermo-elastic stresses and the related degradation phenomena are reported in few cases. The aim of this study is to investigate the progress of damage, reporting the results of an unprecedented experimental campaign on a photovoltaic mini-module composed of nine multi-crystalline silicon solar cells, one of them containing a cracked cell, subject to a revised thermal cycling test including moisture. Every 40 cycles, and up to 460 (corresponding to 1840 h of testing), the progress of electric damage is assessed by monitoring the evolution of the overall electric resistance of the module. Moreover, electroluminescence images are taken with the same time interval, to assess local damage phenomena responsible for electric power-losses. Cracks are found to significantly accelerate the progress of damage as compared to what happens in intact solar cells, inducing progressive gridline failure and the spread of electrically inactive zones.
Polynomial guidance law for impact angle control with a seeker look angle limit
Authors: Zhiming Zhou , Yao Xiaoxian
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the impact angle control problem is investigated by applying the polynomial shaping method. By shaping the light-of-sight angle with relative range, a guidance law called range polynomial guidance is proposed, and the coefficients are determined by boundary conditions. The range polynomial guidance law can be applied to maneuvering targets. By profiling the seeker look angle with the light-of-sight angle, a guidance law called line-of-sight polynomial guidance is developed for impact angle control under a limitation on the seeker look angle. The line-of-sight polynomial guidance law is also effective in intercepting a non-maneuvering moving target at the desired impact angle. Guidance laws with different gain sets are discussed in this paper. The proposed guidance laws take the form of proportional navigation with a time-varying navigation gain. Nonlinear simulations are performed to validate the efficacy of the proposed guidance laws in various engagement conditions. Comparison with other studies demonstrates the practicality and flexibility of the proposed guidance laws in the design of desired impact angles and maximum look angles.
Perspectives of Further Institutional Development of the EU: High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security and EU Foreign Policy
Authors: Sultanova Nigar T.
Published: November 2019

Treaty of Lisbon has contributed significantly to the development of the European Union (EU) institutions. It has abolished the EU pillars system and has made crucial changes to the implementation of external policies of the Union. This article tracks the evolution of the post of High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, starting from its introduction by the Amsterdam Treaty, until the reforms introduced by the Treaty of Lisbon, and also analyses the challenges it is facing, on its path to implement its mandate.
The influence of institutional factors on corporate narratives: A thematic content analysis of Guinness
Authors: Moreno Alonso , Quinn Martin
Published: November 2019

This article provides a thematic content analysis of the Chairman’s Statement of Arthur Guinness & Son Ltd over time. The analysis traces the evolution of the content over four distinct periods using a coding scheme developed from extant research. The objective is to study whether the corporate narratives change in line with the institutional factors over time. To interpret the results, we draw on an institutional theory–based lens to offer potential explanations of some of the change and also of stability. Institutions can not only constrain behaviour but also support and empower agents to bring about change. The results of the longitudinal content analysis reveal some variations over time, but in general the content is relatively stable. This may be explained by the organisation itself being an institution that is sufficiently institutionalised so that corporate reporting remained relatively stable. This suggests Guinness may be an example of a strong institution over time.
Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Development of a Physiotherapy Program
Authors: Li Xin-Bao , Peng Kai-Wen , Ji Zhong-He , Yu Yang , Liu Gang , Li Yan
Published: November 2019

Background:

This study was to assess the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) and to evaluate the safety and feasibility of physiotherapy program to prevent VTE during cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

Methods:

For VTE prevention, we developed a systematic physiotherapy program consisting of active exercises of both arms and legs, and intermittent pneumatic compression device to massage both legs. This physiotherapy was applied to all patients, and the VTE-related events were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Cytoreductive surgery + HIPEC was performed on 466 patients with PC. All patients had highest VTE risk, with the median Caprini risk factor score being 11. During the 3-month observation period, 8 patients had 9 (1.9%) clinically symptomatic VTE events, including 8 (1.7%) deep vein thrombosis and 1 (0.2%) pulmonary embolism. Among those, 5 patients received pharmacological treatments with low-molecular-weight heparin, and the other 3 received physical exercises only. All these patients recovered well, and there was no mortality about VTE perioperatively.

Conclusions:

Patients with PC treated by CRS + HIPEC are at highest risk for VTE. The systematic physiotherapy program is safe and feasible to prevent VTE post CRS + HIPEC.