bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of hiatal hernias: comparison of high-resolution manometry and physician reported in an obese-predominant population
Authors: Shah-Khan Sardar Momin , Chaudhary Fahad , Abdelqader Abdelhai , Kupec Justin T. , Szoka Nova
Published: May 2019

Background

The diagnosis of a hiatal hernia (HH) can be made by barium oesophagram or upper endoscopy. Data regarding the ability of high-resolution manometry (HRM) with oesophageal pressure topography (OPT) to identify HH remains limited. We aim to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the automated localisation on high-resolution manometry compared with physician visual interpretation on the detection of HH.

Methods

Patients (n=181) from West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and Ohio, undergoing HRM with OPT from 1 January 2015 to 1 December 2017 were reviewed. The BMIs of this patient population are of the highest in the USA. Demographics, presenting symptoms, laboratory data, endoscopic findings, radiographic findings, and HRM findings were collected. Diagnosis of HH through HRM automated identification of oesophageal landmarks were compared with diagnosis by physician visual interpretation of OPT.

Results

Automated identification of HH using HRM had high specificity (99.1%), but low sensitivity (11.4%). Physician visual interpretation of OPT similarly had high specificity (82.9%, 83.8%), but low sensitivity (30.0%, 28.6%). Automated identification of HH had a greater positive predictive value (88.9%) compared with physician visual interpretation (52.5%, 52.6%) but was found to have a similar negative predictive value (63.9%) as physician visual interpretation (65.3%, 65.0%).

Conclusion

Compared with physician visual interpretation of OPT, automated identification of HH was more specific, but less sensitive in the diagnosis of HH. Use of automated identification of HH using HRM alone may lead to an increased number of false negatives, and subsequent underdiagnosis of this condition.
Exploratory, cross-sectional social network study to assess the influence of social networks on the care-seeking behaviour, treatment adherence and outcomes of patients with tuberculosis in Chennai, India: a study protocol
Authors: Nagarajan Karikalan , Das Bagavan
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Poor treatment adherence and outcomes among patients with tuberculosis (TB) lead to drug resistance, and increased risk of morbidity, mortality and transmission of the disease in the community. Individual patient-level psychological and behavioural risk factors and structural-level social and health system determinants of treatment adherence and outcomes had been studied widely in India and other countries. There is an evidence gap on how care-seeking behaviour, treatment adherence and outcomes of patients with TB are influenced by their social network structure and the different support they received from social network members.

Methods and analysis

We propose an exploratory, cross-sectional social network study to assess the social network structure of patients with TB in Chennai who recently completed their treatment under the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program in India. We will employ egocentric personal social network survey to 380 patients with TB to generate their social network relationships and will retrospectively assess the types of support they received from different network members. Support received will be categorised as emotional support, resources support, appraisal support, informational support, spiritual support, occupational support and practical support. Social network size, composition, density, centrality and cohesion for individual patients with TB will be calculated and sociograms will be developed. Multinomial logistic regressions will be used to assess the relationship between the ‘structure of social network members’ and ‘social network supports’ and the differential treatment-seeking behaviour, treatment adherence and outcomes among patients with TB.

Ethics and human protection

The proposal was approved by the Institutional Review Board and Ethics Committee of the School of Public Health, SRM University in Kancheepuram. Confidentiality and privacy of participants will be protected. Duty of care for patients who have not completed treatment will be ensured by taking all possible measures to bring them back for treatment.
Descriptive epidemiology of the 2001 foot‐and‐mouth disease epidemic in Great Britain: the first five months
Authors: Gibbens J. C. , Wilesmith J. W. , Sharpe C. E. , Mansley L. M. , Michalopoulou E. , Ryan J. B. M. , Hudson M.
Published: May 2019

In February 2001, foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD) was confirmed in Great Britain. A major epidemic developed, which peaked around 50 cases a day in late March, declining to under 10 a day by May. By mid‐July, 1849 cases had been detected. The main control measures employed were livestock movement restrictions and the rapid slaughter of infected and exposed livestock. The first detected case was in south‐east England; infection was traced to a farm in north‐east England to which all other cases were linked. The epidemic was large as a result of a combination of events, including a delay in the diagnosis of the index case, the movement of infected sheep to market before FMD was first diagnosed, and the time of year. Virus was introduced at a time when there were many sheep movements around the country and weather conditions supported survival of the virus. The consequence was multiple, effectively primary, introductions of FMD virus into major sheep‐keeping areas. Subsequent local spread from these introductions accounted for the majority of cases. The largest local epidemics were in areas with dense sheep populations and livestock dealers who were active during the key period. Most affected farms kept both sheep and cattle. At the time of writing the epidemic was still ongoing; however, this paper provides a basis for scientific discussion of the first five months.
The Ocean Tracking Network: Advancing frontiers in aquatic science and management
Authors: Iverson Sara J. , Fisk Aaron T. , Hinch Scott G. , Mills Flemming Joanna , Cooke Steven J. , Whoriskey Frederick G.
Published: May 2019

Aquatic animals are integral to ocean and freshwater ecosystems and their resilience, are depended upon globally for food sustainability, and support coastal communities and Indigenous peoples. However, global aquatic environments are changing profoundly due to anthropogenic actions and environmental change. These changes are altering distributions, movements, and survival of aquatic animals in ways that are not well understood. The Ocean Tracking Network (OTN) is a global partnership that is filling this knowledge gap. OTN Canada, a pan-Canadian (and beyond) research network, was launched in 2010 with visionary funding by the Canadian government. In our introduction to this special issue, we briefly overview how this interdisciplinary network has used state-of-the-art technologies, infrastructure, electronic tags and sensors, and associated cutting-edge research and training programs to better understand changing marine and freshwater dynamics and their impact on ecosystems, resources, and animal ecology. These studies have provided unprecedented insights into animal ecology and resource management at a range of spatial and temporal scales and by interfacing animal movements with novel measures of environment, physiology, disease, genetics–genomics, and anthropogenic stressors.
Study on the Fracture Behavior of Cracks Emanating from Tunnel Spandrel under Blasting Loads by Using TMCSC Specimens
Authors: Liu Bang , Zhu Zheming , Liu Ruifeng , Zhou Lei , Wan Duanying
Published: May 2019

Radial cracks may exist around tunnel edge, and these cracks may propagate and weaken tunnel stability under nearby blasting operations. In order to study the blast‐induced fracture behavior of radial cracks emanating from a tunnel spandrel, a tunnel model containing a spandrel crack (TMCSC) with different inclination angles was proposed in this paper. Crack propagation gauges (CPGs) and strain gauges were used in the experiments to measure crack initiation moment and propagation time. Finite difference models were established by using AUTODYN code to simulate crack propagation behavior and propagation path. ABAQUS code was used to calculate dynamic stress intensity factors (SIFs). The results show that (1) crack inclination angles affect crack initiation angles and crack propagation lengths significantly; (2) critical SIFs of both mode I and mode II decrease gradually with the increase of the crack propagation speed; (3) the dynamic energy release rates vary during crack propagation; and (4) there are “crack arrest points” on the crack propagation paths in which the crack propagation speed is very small.
New Trend in Old-Age Mortality: Gompertzialization of Mortality Trajectory
Authors: Gavrilov Leonid A. , Gavrilova Natalia S.
Published: May 2019

There is great interest among gerontologists, demographers, and actuaries in the question concerning the limits to human longevity. Attempts at getting answers to this important question have stimulated many studies on late-life mortality trajectories, often with opposing conclusions. One group of researchers believes that mortality stops growing with age at extreme old ages, and that hence there is no fixed limit to the human life span. Other studies found that mortality continues to grow with age up to extreme old ages. Our study suggests a possible solution to this controversy. We found that mortality deceleration is best observed when older, less accurate life span data are analyzed, while in the case of more recent and reliable data there is a persistent mortality growth with age. We compared the performance (goodness of fit) of two competing mortality models – the Gompertz model and the Kannisto (“mortality deceleration”) model – at ages of 80–105 years using data for 1880–1899 single-year birth cohorts of US men and women. The mortality modeling approach suggests a transition from mortality deceleration to the Gompertzian mortality pattern over time for both men and women. These results are consistent with the hypothesis about disappearing mortality deceleration over time due to improvement in the accuracy of age reporting. In the case of more recent data, mortality continues to grow with age even at very old ages. This observation may lead to more conservative estimates of future human longevity records.
Endovascular Stroke Therapy Trends From 2011 to 2017 Show Significant Improvement in Clinical and Economic Outcomes
Authors: Rai Ansaar T. , Crivera Concetta , Kalsekar Iftekhar , Kumari Rashmi , Patino Nataly , Chekani Farid , Khanna Rahul
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to evaluate trends in length of stay, discharge status, and costs among patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent endovascular therapy (ET) between 2011 and 2017.

Methods—

Using a retrospective observational study design, acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing ET from 2011 to 2017 were identified in the Premier Healthcare Database. The Mann-Kendall trend test was performed to examine clinical and economic outcomes trends.

Results—

Among the 505 824 acute ischemic stroke patients, 11 811(2.3%) were treated with ET. Patients receiving ET had a significant increase in home discharge and a significant decrease in mortality (17.7% to 29.6%,
P
<0.01; 21.6% to 12.8%,
P
<0.01). There was a significant decline in length of stay from 11.7 days to 8.7 days (
P
<0.01). Total index admission costs declined ≈17% from 2011 to 2017 ($50 516.5–$42 026.9,
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

Clinical and economic indicators significantly improved for acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing ET from 2011 to 2017.
The Rhythms of Resistance: Dewey, Deleuze, and the Experience of Occupy Wall Street
Authors: Kosnoski Jason
Published: May 2019

This paper will explore how John Dewey’s and Gilles Deleuze’s mutual emphasis upon affect and rhythm can illuminate under-appreciated political consequences of Occupy Wall Street. It suggests what I call the sensed “rhythms of resistance” that are produced when activists move through the micro-geography of the encampment and play an important role in the collective becoming and critical dereification many highlight as resulting from their participation in the movement. My argument not only complexifies contemporary interpretations of these two figures, but also raises provocative questions concerning new approaches to critical-democratic practice in the neoliberal era.
Astiotrema turneri n. sp. (Digenea: Plagiorchiidae) from cichlid fishes (Cichlidae: Perciformes) of Lake Malawi, south-eastern Africa
Authors: BRAY RODNEY A. , VAN OOSTERHOUT COCK , BLAIS JONATAN , CABLE JOANNE
Published: May 2019

Astiotrema turneri n. sp. is described from the cichlid species Pseudotropheus zebra, P. emmiltos, Labeotropheus trewavasae and Melanochromis vermivorus from Lake Malawi. It differs from Astiotrema reniferum (as described by Yeh & Fotedar 1958) in its distinctly broader body, the much smaller cirrus-sac, its oblique testes, the shorter ventral sucker to ovary distance, the vitellarium reaching into the forebody and the extracaecal uterus; from Astiotrema impletum in the sucker-ratio, the longer caeca, the smaller cirrus-sac and the extracaecal uterus; and from Glossidium pedatum (and its probable synonyms Astiotrema lazeri and Afromacroderoides lazerae) in its much broader body shape, in its distinct oesophagus, the intestinal bifurcation in the posterior forebody, in the distinctly oblique testes, the extracaecal uterus and the vitellarium reaching well into the forebody.
The puparium and mature larva of the flat-footed fly Lindneromyia hungarica Chandler, 2001 (Diptera: Platypezidae)
Authors: TKOČ MICHAL , VAŇHARA JAROMÍR
Published: May 2019

The puparium/mature larva of Lindneromyia hungarica Chandler, 2001 is described in detail for the first time and documented by original drawings and SEM micrographs. The puparium is formed from the cuticle of the mature larva and thus bears all larval cuticular structures. Cuticular structures and diagnostic characters of L. hungarica are clearly different from L. dorsalis Meigen, 1804, till this time the only European species of the genus Lindneromyia for which the puparium had been described. A new identification key to the puparia/mature larvae of both species is provided.
The genus Kali Lloyd (Chiasmodontidae: Teleostei) with description of new two species, and the revalidation of K. kerberti Weber
Authors: MELO MARCELO R. S.
Published: May 2019

Kali Lloyd is a very distinctive group of bathypelagic fishes with fragile bones in the cranium and recurved teeth, which are remarkably enlarged in some species. The genus has a worldwide distribution, being found in the subtropical to equatorial regions of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific; one species is also found in the Southern Ocean. In this taxonomic revision, seven species are considered valid, two of them described herein: K. indica; K. kerberti; K. macrodon; K. macrurus; K. parri; K. colubrina, new species; and K. falx, new species. Kali kerberti is re-evaluated as valid and the senior synonym of K. normani. A key for the species with updated maps of distribution are also given.
A new species of the emesine assassin bug genus Emesopsis (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae) from Vietnam
Authors: LAM TRUONG XUAN
Published: May 2019

Emesopsis konchurangensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae: Ploiariolini) is described from central Vietnam as the fourth species of the genus in this country. A key to the Vietnamese species of Emesopsis is presented.
Using a Textual Prompt to Teach Multiword Requesting to Two Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Roche Laura , Carnett Amarie , Sigafoos Jeff , Stevens Michelle , O’Reilly Mark F. , Lancioni Giulio E. , Marschik Peter B.
Published: May 2019

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social and communication impairment, but some children appear to have relative strength in areas such as reading printed words. The present study involved two children with limited expressive communication skills, but relatively stronger reading ability. Based on this existing strength, we evaluated a textual prompting procedure for teaching the children to produce multiword spoken requests. The effect of providing textual prompts on production of multiword requests was evaluated in an ABAB design. The results showed that multiword requests increased when textual prompts were provided and decreased when the prompts were removed. In subsequent phases, the textual prompts were successfully faded by gradually making the printed text lighter and lighter until eventually the prompts were eliminated altogether. We conclude that identification of children’s strengths may assist in identifying effective prompting procedures that could then be used in teaching functional communication skills.
The effect of routine preoperative interruption of dabigatran therapy on coagulation parameters and dabigatran plasma levels in a mixed surgical population
Authors: Brett Oliver F , Brett Christian N , Chin Paul KL
Published: May 2019

Summary

Dabigatran is an oral anticoagulant used for atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism. While an effective antibody reversal agent is available, its cost precludes routine use and the mainstay of preoperative management is timely dabigatran interruption. Unlike warfarin, there are no universally accepted protocols for interruption of dabigatran in the preoperative period and there is uncertainty around the interpretation of standard coagulation tests in the presence of dabigatran. We performed a prospective, observational pilot study in patients presenting for elective surgery to examine: 1) the preoperative plasma dabigatran concentrations on day of surgery associated with the local dabigatran interruption protocol, 2) the potential utility of dabigatran concentrations on day of surgery, and 3) the utility of standard coagulation tests in determining whether dabigatran concentrations were below a ‘safe’ threshold for surgery. We recruited patients presenting to pre-admission clinics for elective surgery. Dabigatran concentrations below 30 µg/L were considered adequate for proceeding with surgery. Data were obtained and analysed from 21 patients with a median (range) age of 70 (20–86) years. Median (range) dabigatran concentrations on the day of surgery were 5 (0–59) µg/L. Two patients had day of surgery concentrations exceeding 30 µg/L. Of the standard coagulation tests examined, only the thrombin clotting time (TCT) was abnormal for these two patients. Our interruption protocol was associated with safe dabigatran concentrations in most patients on the day of surgery. A minority of patients had dabigatran concentrations above the safe threshold, which were detectable by abnormal TCT results.
Benefits and Costs of Ride-Sharing in Shared Automated Vehicles across Austin, Texas: Opportunities for Congestion Pricing
Authors: Gurumurthy Krishna Murthy , Kockelman Kara M. , Simoni Michele D.
Published: May 2019

A self-driving, fully automated, or “autonomous” vehicle (AV) revolution is imminent, with the potential to eliminate driver costs and driver error, while ushering in an era of shared mobility. Dynamic ride-sharing (DRS), which refers to sharing rides with strangers en route, is growing, with top transportation network companies providing such services. This work uses an agent-based simulation tool called MATSim to simulate travel patterns in Austin, Texas in the presence of personal AVs, and shared AVs (SAVs), with DRS and advanced road-pricing policies in place. Fleet size, pricing, and fare level impacts are analyzed in depth to provide insight into how SAVs may best be introduced to a city or region. Results indicate that the cost-effectiveness of traveling with strangers overcomes inconvenience and privacy issues at moderate-to-low fare levels, with high fares being more detrimental than the base case. A moderately sized Austin, Texas fleet (one SAV for every 25 people) serves nearly 30% of all trips made during the day. The average vehicle occupancy of this fleet was around 1.48 [after including the 12.7% of SAV vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) empty/without passengers], with a 4.5% increase in VMT. This same fleet performs better when road-pricing is enforced in the peak periods (4 h a day), moderating VMT by 2%, increasing SAV demand and in turn fleet-manager revenue. SAVs are able to earn around $100 per SAV per day even after paying tolls, but only at low-fare levels.
A methodology for measuring and evaluating geometric errors of aero-engine blades based on genetic algorithm
Authors: Zhu Zheng-Qing , Zhang Yun , Chen Zhi-Tong , Jiang Ze-Peng
Published: May 2019

Measuring and evaluating geometric errors of an aero-engine blade are a complex research topic. At present, there is not a uniform evaluation criterion and completed strategy in the blade manufacturing industry. This article proposes an effective strategy for measuring and evaluating geometric errors of an aero-engine blade: first, measuring six feature curves and calculating the coordinate transformation value with singular value decomposition to improve the accuracy of blade localization; then, an improved measurement method based on the model offset is introduced to eliminate probe radius compensation errors. Finally, the geometric errors of blade are evaluated using the collected measurement data based on genetic algorithm, and a practical evaluation criterion is provided. The proposed strategy for two aero-engine blades has been performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology and show that it can prevent false feedback for the underlying manufacturing process for aero-engine blades.
Social Taboos and Menstrual Practices in the Pindar Valley
Authors: Joshy Nixon , Prakash Kamini , Ramdey Komal
Published: May 2019

Menstruating women in remote villages of the Himalayas still practise segregation due to the belief that menstrual blood is impure. They are confined to the cowshed ( goth) and are not allowed to interact with others. Although Bageshwar district has been declared as open defecation free and every household has a toilet, menstruating women continue to defecate in the open because they are not allowed to use sanitation facilities used by others. Menstrual taboos have an impact on the mobility, health, education and self-esteem of women and adolescent girls. This article looks at the taboos that exist in the Pindar Valley and how women and adolescent girls cope when they have their period. What is the impact of these taboos on the women and girls? How do men and women perceive these taboos? What are the key barriers to changing these practices? How have women negotiated this change given the rigid traditions that have been handed down the centuries?
Factors Associated With Sexual Risk Behaviors Among People Who Use Drugs in Communities in Cambodia
Authors: Ngor Chamnab , Sopheab Heng , Mam Sovatha , Gorbach Pamina , Chhea Chhorvann
Published: May 2019

In Cambodia, HIV prevalence at 4% remains high among people who use drugs (PWUD). Complex and overlapping risk behaviors may enhance sexual transmission risk beyond PWUD. This study, therefore, aims to assess the factors associated with sexual risk behaviors among PWUD. Respondent Driven Sampling was used to recruit 1626 PWUD. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with transmission risk including that high mental disorder scores were a strong predictor of sexual risk behaviors (odds ratio [OR] ranged from 1.9 to 2.8). Factors associated with sexual risk behaviors varied by gender: for men, these included geographical regions, non-married status, and heroin use; and for women, factors were age ≤20 years (OR = 5.4), living with friends (OR = 6.4), living in Central coastal region (OR = 6.1), and heroin use (OR = 4.8).
Self-Esteem and the Development of Partisan Identity
Authors: Wolak Jennifer , Stapleton Carey E.
Published: May 2019

Why do young people choose to identify with a political party? While existing accounts emphasize the importance of political socialization, we propose that young people’s self-perceptions also influence the adoption of partisan identities. Using survey data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, we show that self-esteem plays an important role in the development of partisanship among young people, where those with higher self-esteem are more likely to adopt a partisan identity than those with low self-esteem. Using responses from the 2012–2013 American National Election Study, we further show that the effects of self-esteem are concentrated among young adults, promoting the adoption of partisan identities during one’s impressionable years. By focusing on the inheritance of partisanship from one’s parents, scholars have underestimated the importance of young people’s traits in influencing the development of partisan identities.
Opioid Consumption Rate Following Foot and Ankle Surgery
Authors: Kvarda Peter , Hagemeijer Noortje Catharina , Waryasz Gregory , Guss Daniel , DiGiovanni Christopher W. , Johnson Anne H.
Published: May 2019

Background:

The rapid increase in the consumption of prescription opioids has become one of the leading medical, economic, and sociological burdens in North America. In the United States, orthopedic surgery is the fourth leading specialty in the number of opioids prescribed, and the largest among all operative specialties. There is insufficient evidence to guide surgeons about appropriate opioid prescription amounts after orthopedic foot and ankle (F&A) procedures. The aim of this study was to determine the opioid consumption rate after foot and ankle procedures and identify risk factors associated with higher use.

Methods:

A total of 535 patients who underwent foot and/or ankle surgery between August 2016 and March 2018 were included in the study. Each patient received a preoperative discussion about postoperative pain and expectations alongside a standardized handout. At the 2-week postoperative visit, the patients self-reported the amount of consumed opioids. Prescription details, number of opioid pills consumed, refill requests, pain-issue-related telephone calls, and additional physician/emergency department visits were documented. Patient demographics, comorbidities, use of regional anesthesia, hospitalization, surgery type/severity, and preoperative opioid use were collected. A total of 244 patients had a sufficiently complete data set for inclusion in the final cohort. Subjects had a mean age of 50 years (±16.3) and a body mass index (BMI) of 29 (±6.1). Sixty-six (27%) patients underwent a soft tissue procedure alone and 178 (73%) underwent a bony procedure.

Results:

On average, patients consumed 46.6% of the prescribed pills following a bony procedure and 42.4% after a soft tissue procedure, which resulted in a total of 4496 leftover pills. BMI, procedure type (bony vs soft tissue)/severity, and number of opioids prescribed were positively correlated with elevated consumption rates ( P = .008, P < .001, P < .001, P < .001, respectively).

Conclusion:

BMI, procedure type, and higher initial pill dispensation correlated with a larger number of consumed pills during the postoperative period. On average, patients took 42.4% of the prescribed opioid after soft tissue procedures and 46.6% after bony procedures, resulting in a significant number of unused pills. Future guidelines are necessary to improve postoperative pain management to prevent narcotic overprescription and minimize the downstream potential for unprescribed community opioid access.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case series, analytic.
Hysteresis analysis of pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation braces using different models
Authors: Fan Xiao-Wei , Xu Long-He , Xie Xing-Si , Sun Yu-Sheng , Li Zhong-Xian
Published: May 2019

The ability of an idealized piecewise-linear restoring force model and a nonlinear mechanical model to describe the hysteretic performances of the pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation braces was evaluated based on experimental data. The hysteretic behaviors predicted by these two proposed models were compared with the experimental results of a typical prototype brace, and the results demonstrated that the two models can explain the brace force-time responses, and that the nonlinear mechanical model is more effective in describing the stiffness transition and energy dissipation of the brace. The two proposed models can be used for the design of the pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation brace specimens, and the nonlinear mechanical model may be more useful for designing the structures with the pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation braces. An orthogonal experiment was applied to analyze the influences of the key parameters on the performances of pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation braces based on the nonlinear mechanical model. The results indicate that the friction slip force of energy dissipation mechanism, the pre-pressed force of self-centering mechanism, and the post-activation stiffness significantly affect the hysteretic performances and equivalent viscous damping ratios of the bracing system, while the changes in other parameters only produce slight effects. The determination of the pre-pressed force of the self-centering mechanism should be coordinated with the friction slip force of the energy dissipation mechanism to achieve a better hysteretic performance of the pre-pressed spring self-centering energy dissipation brace.
The Individual-Level Origins of Congressional Corruption Scandals
Authors: Taylor Andrew J. , Cobb Michael D.
Published: May 2019

To date, the literature on corruption scandals in Congress focuses exclusively on their consequences. Using theory that directs analyses of the causes of corruption scandals at the jurisdictional level in the American states and other countries, we test a variety of hypotheses about which kinds of members of the House are more likely to be caught in these episodes. We derive our hypotheses from three basic propositions about individual-level corruption—opportunity, culture, and target. There is evidence to support them all. Members with cultivated relationships, in positions of power, and elected from districts with traditions of or perceived tolerance for corruption are disproportionately scandalous. So, interestingly, are some potentially marginalized legislators, particularly racial minorities. We explore the finding that Black members are frequently associated with corruption scandals.
Multi-Dimensional Human Workload Assessment for Supervisory Human–Machine Teams
Authors: Heard Jamison , Adams Julie A.
Published: May 2019

Humans commanding and monitoring robots’ actions are used in various high-stress environments, such as the Predator or MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted unmanned aerial vehicles. The presence of stress and potential costly mistakes in these environments places considerable demands and workload on the human supervisors, which can reduce task performance. Performance may be augmented by implementing an adaptive workload human–machine teaming system that is capable of adjusting based on a human’s workload state. Such a teaming system requires a human workload assessment algorithm capable of estimating workload along multiple dimensions. A multi-dimensional algorithm that estimates workload in a supervisory environment is presented. The algorithm performs well in emulated real-world environments and generalizes across similar workload conditions and populations. This algorithm is a critical component for developing an adaptive human–robot teaming system that can adapt its interactions and intelligently (re-)allocate tasks in dynamic domains.
Olaparib as maintenance treatment for patients with platinum-sensitive relapsed ovarian cancer
Authors: Ledermann Jonathan A. , Pujade-Lauraine Eric
Published: May 2019

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors were developed with the intention of treating patients with homologous recombination repair deficiency (HRD), specifically for patients with tumours that harbour a BRCA mutation (BRCAm). Evidence from clinical trials to date has demonstrated that patients with a BRCAm derive the greatest benefit from PARP inhibitors. However, clinical studies have also shown that PARP inhibitors provide benefit to women with ovarian cancer who do not have a BRCAm. The recent updated approvals of olaparib, niraparib and rucaparib by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of all platinum-sensitive relapsed (PSR) ovarian-cancer populations, regardless of their BRCAm status, support this. Long-term tolerability and efficacy of olaparib have been demonstrated in patients both with and without a BRCAm, with 13% of patients receiving maintenance olaparib for at least 5 years in one study, which is unprecedented in the relapsed ovarian-cancer setting ( versus 1% on placebo). Further studies should be performed to elucidate which non-BRCAm patients are deriving benefit and what molecular processes are enabling this, so that patients continue to receive optimal treatment for their disease. Here, we review clinical and molecular markers of HRD, the long-term clinical safety and efficacy of PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer, with a focus on olaparib and the current approved indications for PARP inhibitors, as well as guidance on treatment decisions for patients with PSR ovarian cancer.
Using Virtual Reality to Compare Design Alternatives Using Subjective and Objective Evaluation Methods
Authors: Wingler Deborah , Joseph Anjali , Bayramzadeh Sara , Robb Andrew
Published: May 2019

Objective:

This study sought to develop a method that supports a more evidence-based approach to evaluating multiple design options in virtual reality (VR), combining subjective insights gathered using traditional approaches and objective feedback gathered using the VR platform. Additionally, this study sought to understand how objective data garnered from the VR platform could be used to compliment traditional evaluation strategies.

Background:

VR can be a viable research platform for supporting evidence-based design practices. Prior studies have predominately utilized experiential user feedback. While able to provide valuable subjective insights, these approaches are less effective in making objective comparisons between multiple designs alternatives.

Method:

A repeated measures study was conducted with nursing faculty. User feedback was captured through surveys, interviews, and the VR platform.

Results:

The survey, interview, and the objective VR data converged in terms of identifying the highest performing design option. Survey data showed that Room 2 performed best in terms of perceived physical access to supplies, unobstructed movement, and availability of space to accommodate additional equipment. VR data showed that participants in Room 2 had significantly higher visibility to both patient and care partners throughout their simulated interaction.

Conclusion:

Simulation-based evaluations in VR that use a combination of users’ subjective insights and objective data obtained from VR can be an effective tool for helping designers evaluate multiple design options. The use of scenario-based simulations provided a structured and clinically relevant approach to comparing three preoperative rooms, supporting a more robust assessment of users’ physical response to a simulated healthcare environment.
Investigating colistin drug resistance: The role of high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics
Authors: Aruhomukama Dickson , Sserwadda Ivan , Mboowa Gerald
Published: May 2019

Bacterial infections involving antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria continue to increase and represent a major global public health concern. Resistance to antibiotics in these bacteria is mediated by chromosomal and/or acquired resistance mechanisms, these give rise to multi-drug resistant (MDR), extensive-drug resistant (XDR) or pan-drug resistant (PDR) bacterial strains. Most recently, plasmid-mediated resistance to colistin, an antibiotic that had been set apart as the last resort antibiotic in the treatment of infections involving MDR, XDR and PDR gram-negative bacteria has been reported. Plasmid-mediated colistin resistant gram-negative bacteria have been described to be PDR, implying a state devoid of alternative antibiotic therapeutic options. This review concisely describes the evolution of antibiotic resistance to plasmid-mediated colistin resistance and discusses the potential role of high-throughput sequencing technologies, genomics, and bioinformatics towards improving antibiotic resistance surveillance, the search for novel drug targets and precision antibiotic therapy focused at combating colistin resistance, and antibiotic resistance as a whole.
UMA BREVE DESCRIÇÃO SOBRE A CIBERCULTURA DOS HUE BR
Authors: Silva Weslley Kozlik , Santinello Jamile , Guadagnini Graziella Medeiros
Published: May 2019

A Internet é um espaço que há algum tempo tem promovido interações entre pessoas das mais diversas partes do mundo. Desse modo podem surgir questionamentos acerca dos comportamentos dos usuários dessa rede uma vez que provavelmente pertençam a culturas diferentes. Uma vez que essas variadas culturas entram em contato, é possível que haja uma hibridização delas ou até mesmo o surgimento de novas culturas em rede, que podem ser chamadas de ciberculturas (LÉVY, 2009). Assim, o objetivo do trabalho é analisar e descrever uma cultura específica, criada nesse espaço, chamada Hue br. A metodologia utilizada para se chegar ao objetivo é a pesquisa etnográfica, que permite boa interação com o grupo pesquisado. Como resultado verificou-se várias características dessa cibercultura, entre elas destaca-se a zoeira ou escárnio acima de qualquer outro objetivo. Os resultados apontam para uma construção da cibercultura a partir de resistências às imposições de jogadores de outras nacionalidades, principalmente relacionada ao idioma falado nos servidores de jogos online.
Memes e a Educação de Jovens e Adultos
Authors: De Melo Daniele Santana
Published: May 2019

O presente artigo aborda os memes no contexto educacional. Trata-se de um estudo de caso desenvolvido na disciplina de Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA), em uma faculdade da rede privada, localizada em Coronel João Sá - Bahia. Tem como objetivo geral apresentar os memes através de suas potencialidades de interpretações das informações dos alunos e ex-alunos da modalidade Educação de Jovens e Adultos, a partir de dados estabelecidos nas entrevistas realizadas pelos discentes do curso de pedagogia da disciplina Educação de Jovens e Adultos. Acrescido a isso, mostrar as concepções dos alunos e ex-alunos da EJA, e com base nas informações reconfigurar a prática docente, apontando quais os tipos de memes que podem contribuir na/para ações pedagógicas. Embora estejamos imbricados na sociedade marcada como a era da informação, das tecnologias móveis, com rápido e fácil acesso de informações, ou seja, mais independentes para buscar assuntos diversos, e entre eles os de curiosidades. Constatamos nesta pesquisa que existe a necessidade de reconfigurar matérias didáticos para a prática docente em especial. No esteio da cultura digital, ou seja, estamos conectados em diversas redes sociais utilizando-as como fonte de pesquisa e, consequentemente, em ações pedagógicas.
Surgical/orthodontic management of a large mandibular odontogenic keratocyst (OKC)
Authors: Atwal Amarpreet , Cottom Hannah , Doyle Peter , Sandler Jonathan
Published: May 2019

The odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is the third most common cyst of the jaw. OKCs are benign developmental cysts that are often locally destructive and large at presentation. They are usually identified during radiographic examination and require appropriate treatment planning to ensure optimal care. We present a very challenging case of a 12-year-old boy with a large mandibular OKC. The roots of several teeth were displaced, with both LR3 and LR5 unerupted and severely malpositioned. A multidisciplinary approach was therefore essential in view of the complexity, with joint planning and close liaison of treatment between the surgeon, orthodontist and general dental practitioner (GDP). This was fundamental to ensure the best possible outcome was achieved for the patient.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This case report aims to increase awareness of OKCs to GDPs and outlines the surgical, orthodontic and restorative challenges faced in the management of such cases.
O socjotechnicznych, a także prakseologicznych korzeniach doradztwa politycznego
Authors: Scheffs Łukasz
Published: May 2019

Artykuł traktuje przede wszystkim o doradztwie (konsultingu) politycznym i znaczeniu konsultantów politycznych w organizacji politycznej. Z oczywistych względów dotyka też zagadnień związanych z praktycznym zastosowaniem wiedzy naukowej. Autor dokonuje w nim próby analizy rozumienia pojęcia doradztwa politycznego poprzez wskazanie jego zależności z takimi terminami jak socjotechnika, doradztwo komunikacyjne, doradztwo osobiste, doradztwo merytoryczne i kampania wyborcza.
Cerebellar Stellate Cell Excitability Is Coordinated by Shifts in the Gating Behavior of Voltage-Gated Na+and A-Type K+Channels
Authors: Alexander Ryan P.D. , Mitry John , Sareen Vasu , Khadra Anmar , Bowie Derek
Published: May 2019

Neuronal excitability in the vertebrate brain is governed by the coordinated activity of both ligand- and voltage-gated ion channels. In the cerebellum, spontaneous action potential (AP) firing of inhibitory stellate cells (SCs) is variable, typically operating within the 5- to 30-Hz frequency range. AP frequency is shaped by the activity of somatodendritic A-type K+channels and the inhibitory effect of GABAergic transmission. An added complication, however, is that whole-cell recording from SCs induces a time-dependent and sustained increase in membrane excitability making it difficult to define the full range of firing rates. Here, we show that whole-cell recording in cerebellar SCs of both male and female mice augments firing rates by reducing the membrane potential at which APs are initiated. AP threshold is lowered due to a hyperpolarizing shift in the gating behavior of voltage-gated Na+channels. Whole-cell recording also elicits a hyperpolarizing shift in the gating behavior of A-type K+channels which contributes to increased firing rates. Hodgkin–Huxley modeling and pharmacological experiments reveal that gating shifts in A-type K+channel activity do not impact AP threshold, but rather promote channel inactivation which removes restraint on the upper limit of firing rates. Taken together, our work reveals an unappreciated impact of voltage-gated Na+channels that work in coordination with A-type K+channels to regulate the firing frequency of cerebellar SCs.
A verified multiplexed immunoassay for detecting antibodies against infectious pathogens
Authors: Poltavchenko A. G. , Nechitaylo O. V. , Filatov P. V. , Ersh A. V.
Published: May 2019

Baseline screening of population groups at increased risk of developing infectious diseases (ID) includes a number of ELISA-based analyses, thereby accounting for high cost laborious and time-consuming examination. Earlier wedeveloped a cheap multiplex assay allowing to quickly perform a complex initial testing. Here, we would like to describe a novel kit designed to simultaneously detect antibodies against the six ID pathogens in blood products (plasma, serum etc.): human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B and C viruses, cytomegalovirus, Treponema pallidum and Toxoplasma gondii. The kit is based on multiplex dot-immunoassay over flat protein arrays (immune chips) utilizing colloidal gold conjugates and silver development. It allows carrying out complex analysis at room temperature within 70 minutes and does not require highly-qualified personnel. In this article, the results of laboratory tests of the experimental sample of a multiplex kit are compared with commercial ELISA kits from five Russian manufacturers using an array of 240 blood product samples including 200 clinical serum (plasma) samples from patients with ID and 40 plasma samples from donors. It was shown that the multiplex test analysis has a sensitivity and specificity of at least 95%, and optical signals of the dot-assay correlate well with the optical density values obtained using commercial ELISA kits and allow a semiquantitative evaluation of the content of specific antibodies in the sample. Furthermore, multiplex analysis is quicker and cheaper compared to ELISA and can be carried out in field. The kit for multiplex dot-immunoassay of antibodies can provide a complex approach to the diagnosis of ID, significantly simplify initial testing, make it faster, more efficient and affordable for patients.
Differences in the amino acid composition of the antigen epitopes of the VP7 protein of Russian rotaviruses with the G9 genotype and the vaccine strains RotaTeq, Rotavac, and Rotarix
Authors: Morozova O. V. , Sashina T. A. , Epifanova N. V. , Novikova N. A.
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Rotaviruses of group A (RVA) with genotype G9P[8] are a common cause of acute gastroenteritis in children in Russia. In Nizhny Novgorod, the part of G9P[8] among all RVA strains reached 63.1% during 20162017 epidemic season. Two live rotavirus vaccines, RotaTeq and Rotarix have been successfully introduced into the national immunization programs worldwide. In addition, the Indian vaccine Rotavac, based on the strain with G9P[8] genotype, is used on a regional level. The parent strains for all mentioned vaccines were isolated more than 30 years ago. There is no data about phylogenetic analysis and comparative analysis of antigenic epitopes of Russian G9P[8] wild-type isolates and vaccine strains. In the present study, for the first time, we provide a comparative phylogenetic analysis and research of the amino acid composition of the B- and T-cell epitopes of the VP7 protein between Russian rotaviruses with the G9 genotype and the vaccine strains in RotaTeq, Rotarix and Rotavac composition. Materials and methods. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the VP7 gene of RVA with genotype G9 were studied. The rotaviruses had been previously isolated from children hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis in the infectious hospital in Nizhny Novgorod during 20112016. Results. A phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the VP7 gene showed that the Nizhny Novgorod strains belong to the G9-III allele. Based on the amino acid sequences VP7, three B-cell epitopes (71a, 71b and 72) and two T-cell epitopes (1628 aa and 4052 aa) were analyzed. The smallest number of substitutions was found in the RotaTeq vaccine registered in Russia: from 0 to 3 aa differences at the epitope. The same (from 0 to 3 aa differences at the epitope) was found between the wild-type strains RVA and the Rotavac vaccine. The largest number of amino acid differences was found between the vaccine strain Rotarix and the Nizhny Novgorod G9 strains (from 3 to 10 aa at the epitope). Conclusion. In the present work, based on nucleotide sequences VP7 gene, we provide phylogenetic and comparative analyses of the amino acid composition of antigenic epitopes of G9 RVA isolated in Russia vs rotavirus strains in vaccines RotaTeq, Rotavac and Rotarix. The accumulation of mutations in antigenic epitopes can help the virus to escape the immune response. Continuous molecular monitoring of wild-type RVA strains is necessary for estimation of the possible impact of vaccines on the genotype diversity of the rotavirus population in the wild and to monitor the emergence of novel antigenic variants.