bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Concrete Pavement Set Gradient Based on Analysis of Slab Behavior and Field Test Data
Authors: Joshaghani Alireza , Zollinger Dan G.
Published: May 2019

This paper discusses how the set gradient in a jointed concrete slab is related to the cracking performance and its effects on fatigue crack model calibration. The role of curing quality on-set and how curing quality parameters are related to the set gradient is also discussed. To assess the impacts of curing practices on the set gradient of a newly constructed concrete slab, a field investigation was undertaken at the Florida Department of Transportation State Materials Office in Gainesville, Florida. This study investigated early age concrete pavement behavior with respect to the development of the set gradient. In this research, four test slabs were placed and cured under different conditions to create different states of stress and creep behavior during and after hardening of the concrete. Early age concrete temperature and moisture history are key factors that affect the slab curling and warping behavior as they pertain to the resulting set gradient. This paper elaborates on the details of the cracking performance data analysis of test data associated with the development of the set gradient.
Atomic absorption spectrometry for the quantification of cadmium in thermoformed and biodegradable flexible films made from cassava (Manihot esculenta crantz)
Authors: Rada-Mendoza Maite , Arciniegas-Herrera Jose Luis , Hoyos-Saavedra Olga Lucía , Castillo Roberto Del , Chito-Trujillo Diana
Published: May 2019

A simple method for determining the presence of cadmium (Cd) in thermoformed and biodegradable flexible films and flour and starch samples from cassava, using graphite furnace-atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS), is proposed. The biopolymers used in contact with foods can contain Cd due to contamination from the origin of the material used to make them. The nitric: perchloric acid digestion with reflux was optimized, and the statistical quality parameters were standardized. The GF-AAS instrumental conditions and the graphite furnace heating program were adjusted through pyrolysis and atomization curves, and the optimal temperatures were 530 and 1750°C, respectively. In addition, under optimal conditions, the working range was from 0.1 µg/L to 1.0 µg/L, with limits of detection and quantification of 0.02 and 0.07 µg/L, respectively. The precision was evaluated using intermediate precision and repeatability of the method, which showed standard deviations of 1.6–4.8% and 2.1–4.8%, respectively. The percentage of recovery of Cd ranged from 96.2% to 97.3%. The results obtained support the suitability of the method for determining the presence of Cd in these samples. Cd concentrations in flexible films and starch were below the quantification limit. The other samples (thermoformed and flours) contained less than 1 mg/kg (maximum level set by the NTC 4096), indicating that these polymers meet this standard and therefore can be used for food containers and packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables.
A driving cycle construction methodology combining k-means clustering and Markov model for urban mixed roads
Authors: Peng Yuhui , Zhuang Yuan , Yang Yinghui
Published: May 2019

With the rapid urban expansion in China, there is considerable development of road networks, mainly comprising arterial roads, expressways, and loop-lines in urban regions. In addition to typical short trips, certain number of long trips are also included in the driving behavior for urban areas. In view of the new characteristics of urban mixed roads, a driving cycle construction methodology combining k-means clustering and Markov model method is proposed based on about 2.4 million seconds of driving data collected from seven passenger cars without route planning. In order to cluster micro trips into appropriate categories corresponding to different types of roads, the Silhouette equation is introduced to determine the appropriate clustering strategy and the error of artificial factors is restrained. The constructed driving cycle, comprising a 1200 s speed-time series, is developed based on the assessment of speed–acceleration frequency distribution and estimation of six characteristic parameters. According to the results, the average difference rate of six characteristic parameters is only 4.31%, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes modelling in transonic S-ducts with passive flow control
Authors: Hickling Tom , Ingram Grant
Published: May 2019

S-duct diffusers are used in aircraft with embedded engines to route ambient air to the fan face. Sizing and stealth considerations drive a need for high curvature ducts, but the curvature causes complex secondary flows that lead to total pressure distortion and swirl velocities at the engine face. These must be controlled for stable engine operation. In this paper, tubercles, a novel bio-inspired passive flow control method, are analysed numerically in a duct with transonic flow. The results are compared to experimental data obtained as part of a campaign at the Royal Military College, Canada to investigate the effects of S-duct geometry and novel passive flow control devices on the performance of transonic S-ducts. The performance of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes turbulence models in the S-ducts is assessed – Menter's shear stress transport model predicts excessive losses due to the overactivity of its stress limiter. The realisable k–ɛ model gives a significant improvement in the prediction of static pressure distributions, but losses and distortion characteristics are predicted poorly due to the model's inability to resolve the effects of unsteadiness in separated regions. Large tubercle geometries are found to trigger earlier separation in the centre of the duct by concentrating low momentum fluid in valleys, but they also act as boundary layer fences away from the duct centre. Smaller geometries are found to generate vortices that re-energise the boundary layer, delaying flow separation. Methods are recommended for future computational analyses of S-ducts and new designs of tubercles.
Legitimating Violences: The ‘Gay Rights’ NGO and the Disciplining of the Sri Lankan Queer Figure
Authors: Ellawala Themal
Published: May 2019

Sri Lanka has debated the decriminalization of homosexuality for several decades, but never with more vigour than in 2017, when the government considered this legislative change. This project was eventually abandoned, inspiring fierce opposition by local ‘LGBT’ non-governmental organizations (NGOs), resulting in an escalation of advocacy work in the country. This article interrogates the capacity ‘LGBT’ NGOs possess to (re)produce forms of structural violence and reify new idioms of normativity as they seek to emancipate the queer figure. The site of conflict between the state and civil society is rife with the problematics of nation and capital, for the NGO reifies ethno-nationalism and capitalist social cleavages. Meanwhile, reliance on material support from the Global North renders these organizations enmeshed in transnational neoliberal politics. In negotiating the narcissistic desires of state and global hegemonies, and the crisis of legitimacy that emerges through these encounters, NGOs demarcate a specifically interpellated figure as the normative ‘LGBT’ citizen, thereby collapsing a range of queer desires to flat, restrictive ontologies that exclude many. Using interviews, informal conversations and observations gleaned through an ethnography on genders and sexualities in Sri Lanka, this article explores the institutional politics of queer liberation in Sri Lanka, enmeshed as they are in the myriad complexities of postcolonial neoliberal modernity.
Using the Stage-Based Approaches to Predict Breast Self-Examination Among Rural Vietnamese Women
Authors: Kim Eun-Mi , Lee Hyeonkyeong , Kim Jong-Gun , Ho Tuong Vi , Huong Nguyen Thi Thanh , Mai Tran Thi Ngoc , Son Nguyen Thi
Published: May 2019

A stages-of-change approach would be helpful to understand cancer screening behaviors. This study aimed to identify the compliance and determinants of breast self-examination (BSE) based on transtheoretical model (TTM) and health belief model (HBM). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 296 rural Vietnamese women using a self-administered questionnaire consisting of Champion’s HBM scales, breast cancer knowledge (BCK), integrated connection to neighborhood storytelling networks (ICSN), and TTM stages of BSE. A generalized ordered logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with TTM stages of BSE. About 61% of women did not currently perform BSE. Perceived benefit was significant in all stages changes. When changing to the action stage, perceived benefits, self-efficacy, and BCK were significant. When changing to the maintenance stage, perceived susceptibility, benefits, self-efficacy, and ICSN were significant. Determinants influencing BSE behavior were different in each TTM stage, indicating that educational programs should be introduced with stage-matched strategies to increase BSE.
Learn From the Situation and Move Forward: A Talk With Deborah Deutsch Smith
Authors: Boone Randall , Higgins Kyle
Published: May 2019

Deborah Deutsch Smith is professor emerita in the School of Educational Studies at Claremont Graduate University. She has directed many federal, state, and local projects, receiving more than $40.6 million in external funding to support those efforts. She is the author of 19 textbooks, including Teaching Students With Special Needs in Inclusive Classrooms and Contemporary Special Education: New Horizons, as well as the popular Introduction to Special Education: Making a Difference. She has written over 31 chapters and book supplements, and more than 60 refereed articles and reports, as well as many instructional materials for children.
Adult ADHD: Influence of Physical Activation, Stimulation, and Reward on Cognitive Performance and Symptoms
Authors: Kallweit Claudia , Paucke Madlen , Strauß Maria , Exner Cornelia
Published: May 2019

Objective: Models of ADHD consider the influence of situational factors on cognitive performance and symptoms. Method: The influence of acute physical exercise, stimulation through continuous fine motor movement, and performance-related reward on performance and ADHD symptoms was assessed. Thirty-six adults with ADHD and 36 healthy controls performed executive function tasks (EF-tasks) of inhibition, selective attention, and working memory with material close to daily life. Experimental manipulations aimed at increasing cognitive performance. Results: No significant effects were found, but there were indicators for ADHD-specific impacts: Reward resulted in higher reported hyperactivity. Acute physical exercise slightly tended to improve attention performance and subjective inattention. Conclusion: The manipulations may affect performance and especially symptoms in different ways. Potential symptom interactions and identification of factors that determine whether symptoms may be functional or detrimental for task performance could be future research interests.
How Often are Custom Implants Actually Needed in Hip Revision Surgery?
Authors: Northmore-Ball M.D.
Published: May 2019

The implants used in a series of 230 consecutive hip replacement revisions have been analysed and divided into those in which the implant was already available in the hospital (Group A), those in which an implant had to be specially brought in, but which was, nevertheless, in production (Group B), and a third group in which an implant had to be specially made (Group C). Ninety-four per cent of the series were in Group A, 3% in Group B, and 3% in Group C. The types of case requiring a Group C or true “custom” implant are discussed.
Acute Fingolimod Effects on Baroreflex and Cardiovascular Autonomic Control in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Racca Vittorio , Rovaris Marco , Cavarretta Rosella , Vaini Emanuele , Toccafondi Anastasia , Di Rienzo Marco
Published: May 2019

Background:

Fingolimod, an oral drug used in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment, exerts its action through S1P-receptor engagement. These receptors are also expressed in heart and endothelial cells. The engagement of receptors on the atrial heart myocytes may cause a slowing effect on heart rate (HR). We aimed to explore the acute effect of fingolimod on the cardiac autonomic control, a side-effect of the drug that still needs to be clarified.

Methods:

In 10 MS patients, we investigated the influence of the first administration of fingolimod (0.5 mg) on sympathetic and parasympathetic indexes via the analysis of the HR variability, and on the baroreflex sensitivity via sequence and alpha coefficient techniques.

Results:

Fingolimod produced an average HR maximal drop of 12.7 (7.8) beats/min and the minimal HR occurred after 2.73 (0.38) hours from the dose administration. The pulse interval (PI) mean value and the pNN50 and RMSSD indexes of parasympathetic drive to the heart significantly increased. Interestingly, in 6 out of 10 patients also the power in the low-frequency band (LF) increased. The baroreflex sensitivity was not modified by the first dose of the drug.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that although the first dose of fingolimod invariably activates the parasympathetic system, in several subjects, it may induce also a surge in the sympathetic cardiac drive. This suggests that not only the vagal, as usually assumed, but also the sympathetic autonomic branch should be considered in the risk profile assessment of MS patients starting treatment with fingolimod.
Effects of a web-based expert support self-management program (WEST) for women with breast cancer: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Hee-Seung
Published: May 2019

Introduction

This study was a randomized controlled trial that examined the effects of a web-based expert support self-management program (WEST) on metabolic syndrome risk factors and self-efficacy among Korean women with breast cancer.

Methods

Participants were 60 women with breast cancer (30 participants each in both the experimental and control groups) who also had metabolic risk factors. WEST is based on the self-efficacy theory and is a self-health management program consisting of a web-based program, DIETEX (which entails keeping a health diary, identifying a lifestyle type, inputting personal health information), and expert support. WEST was provided to the experimental group once a week for 24 weeks. Metabolic syndrome risk factors and self-efficacy of the experimental and control groups were examined pre-intervention and at 12 and 24 weeks after intervention.

Results

The decreases in body fat, body fat percentage, and waist circumference were greater in the experimental group than in the control group at 24 weeks ( p = 0.019, p = 0.025, and p = 0.038, respectively).

Discussion

The present study can provide basic data for the development and application of interventions for women with breast cancer in the future. Additionally, we propose that WEST be included in the treatment process to complement the intervention of medical personnel for improving metabolic risk factors in women with breast cancer.
Electronic inhaler monitoring and healthcare utilization in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Alshabani Khaled , Attaway Amy A , Smith Michael J , Majumdar Uddalak , Rice Richard , Han Xiaozhen , Wang Xiaofeng , Hatipoğlu Umur
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The effect of electronic inhaler monitoring (EIM) on healthcare utilization in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has not been studied. We hypothesized that the use of EIM in conjunction with a disease management program reduces healthcare utilization in patients with COPD.

Methods

This is a retrospective pre- and post-analysis of a quality improvement project. Patients with COPD and high healthcare utilization (≥one hospitalization or emergency room visit during the year prior to enrolment) were provided with electronic monitoring devices for monitoring controller and rescue inhaler utilization for one year. Patients were contacted when alerts were triggered, indicating suboptimal adherence to controller inhaler or increased use of rescue inhalers, potentially signalling an impending exacerbation. Healthcare utilization was assessed pre- and post-monitoring, with each subject serving as his/her own control.

Results

Patients with COPD and high healthcare utilization ( n = 39) were recruited. Mean EIM duration was 280.5 (±120.6) days. The mean age was 68.6 (±9.9) years, FEV1 (mean forced expiratory volume in one second) was 1.1 (±0.4) L, and mean Charlson Comorbidity index was 5.6 (±2.7). Average adherence was 44.4% (28.4%). Compared with the year prior to enrolment, EIM was associated with a reduction in COPD-related healthcare utilization per year (2.2 (±2.3) versus 3.4 (±3.2), p = 0.01). Although there was a reduction in all-cause healthcare utilization, this was not statistically significant (3.4 (±2.6) versus 4.7 (±4.1), p = 0.06).

Discussion

EIM in conjunction with a disease management program may play a role in reducing healthcare utilization in COPD patients with a history of high healthcare utilization.
What are we missing? The profile of non-respondents in the Finnish Gambling 2015 survey
Authors: Kontto J. , Tolonen H. , Salonen A. H.
Published: May 2019

Aims: Population-based gambling surveys provide important information about gambling frequency, problems, attitude and opinions of the general population. This information can be used by social and health care professionals, service providers and policy makers. However, low response rates may cause biased findings. The aim was to define the profile of non-respondents in the Finnish Gambling 2015 survey. Methods: The survey sample ( N = 7400) was obtained from the national Population Information System and the survey was conducted using computer-assisted telephone interviews (response rate 62%). The study sample including individuals aged 18–74 was linked to administrative registers to obtain socio-demographic information (sex, age, marital status, education, socio-economic status, net income, residential area) about the respondents and the non-respondents. Register-based information was used to build a non-respondent profile for the survey. Results: The non-response was more prevalent among women, 18- to 24-year-olds, non-married, individuals with primary education, unemployed (vs. self-employed and students) and residents in urban areas. When net income was added to the model, the associations of women and unemployed (vs. self-employed) with non-response became non-significant, while the non-response was more prevalent among the lowest quintile of net income. Conclusions: Socio-economic position was associated with lower response rate which may cause bias while studying gambling behaviour of socio-economically vulnerable individuals. Obtaining additional auxiliary information through record linkage to administrative registers and use of more sophisticated methods for controlling bias caused by non-response, such as multiple imputation, would offer information about the impact of non-response to the results related to gambling and gambling problems.
Once a journalist, not always a journalist? Causes and consequences of job changes from journalism to public relations
Authors: Viererbl Benno , Koch Thomas
Published: May 2019

Increasingly, journalists do not find permanent jobs and seek work in related fields, often in public relations. However, the two professions differ with regard to some of their normative functions: whereas journalists should report objectively and without bias, public relations practitioners are supposed to represent their clients’ particular interests. Hence, shifts from journalism to public relations have the potential for conflict. This study analyzes whether these shifts cause inter-role conflict and examines the reasons for the job changes. We conducted 17 qualitative semi-structured interviews with former journalists from Germany who have permanently transitioned into public relations. Our results show that the reasons for the job shifts can be categorized along two dimensions: (1) push versus pull factors (being pushed out of journalism because of poor working conditions versus being pulled into public relations jobs by attractive qualities of the work) and (2) hygiene versus motivational factors (extrinsic versus intrinsic rewards related to the job). Moreover, the study reveals that former journalists who now work in public relations struggle with inter-role conflict because they retain a journalistic self-concept that conflicts with specific norms in public relations. The participants, however, report a number of strategies to cope with these conflicts.
Quantification of low abundance Yersinia pestis markers in dried blood spots by immuno-capture and quantitative high-resolution targeted mass spectrometry
Authors: Rifflet Aline , Filali Sofia , Chenau Jérôme , Simon Stéphanie , Fenaille François , Junot Christophe , Carniel Elisabeth , Becher François
Published: May 2019

Plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is still present in several countries worldwide. Besides, Y. pestis has been designated as Tier 1 agent, the highest rank of bioterrorism agents. In this context, reliable diagnostic methods are of great importance. Here, we have developed an original workflow based upon dried blood spot for simplified sampling of clinical specimens, and specific immuno-mass spectrometry monitoring of Y. pestis biomarkers. Targeted proteins were selectively enriched from dried blood spot extracts by multiplex immunocapture using antibody-coated magnetic beads. After accelerated on-beads digestion, proteotypic peptides were monitored by multiplex LC-MS/MS through the parallel reaction monitoring mode. The DBS-IC-MS assay was designed to quantify both F1 and LcrV antigens, although 10-fold lower sensitivity was observed with LcrV. The assay was successfully validated for F1 with a lower limit of quantification at 5 ng·mL−1 in spiked blood, corresponding to only 0.1 ng on spots. In vivo quantification of F1 in blood and organ samples was demonstrated in the mouse model of pneumonic plague. The new assay could help to simplify the laboratory confirmation of positive point of care F1 dipstick.
Is there a role for cherries in the management of gout?
Authors: Collins Marcum W. , Saag Kenneth G. , Singh Jasvinder A.
Published: May 2019

Despite the availability of effective urate-lowering therapy (ULT) and anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of gout, there is considerable interest in novel treatment approaches. Patients with gout often have a multitude of comorbidities, leading to concern over drug–drug interactions and medication adverse events. The cherry is a small nutrient-rich fruit that has garnered a great deal of attention in recent years as a nonpharmacologic option for the treatment of a multitude of disease manifestations. Perhaps a quarter of patients with gout try cherries or cherry products to treat their gout, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, COX-I and -II) properties, hypouricemic effects, and the ability to downregulate NFkB-mediated osteoclastogenesis. Based on these properties, cherries may reduce both the acute and chronic inflammation associated with recurrent gout flares and its chronic destructive arthropathy. In this review, we explore the potential benefits of cherries and cherry products as a nonpharmacologic option for the treatment of gout.
United States Pulmonary Hypertension Scientific Registry (USPHSR): rationale, design, and clinical implications
Authors: Elliott C. Gregory , Austin Eric D. , Badesch David , Badlam Jessica , Benza Raymond L. , Chung Wendy K. , Farber Harrison W. , Feldkircher Kathy , Frost Adaani E. , Poms Abby D. , Lutz Katie A. , Pauciulo Michael W. , Yu Chang , Nichols William C.
Published: May 2019

Diagnostic World Health Organization (WHO) Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and Diagnostic Group 1′ pulmonary veno‐occlusive disease (PVOD) and/or pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis (PCH) are progressive and fatal disorders. Past registries provided important insights into these disorders, but did not include hormonal exposures or genomic data. The United States Pulmonary Hypertension Scientific Registry (USPHSR) will provide demographic, physiologic, anorexigen and hormone exposure, genomic, and survival data in the current therapeutic era for 499 patients diagnosed with PAH, PVOD, or PCH. The USPHSR also will explore the relationship between pharmacologic, non‐pharmacologic, and dietary hormonal exposures and the increased risk for women to develop idiopathic or heritable PAH.
Ventricular–ventricular interaction variables correlate with surrogate variables of clinical outcome in children with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Koestenberger Martin , Sallmon Hannes , Avian Alexander , Cantinotti Massimiliano , Gamillscheg Andreas , Kurath‐Koller Stefan , Schweintzger Sabrina , Hansmann Georg
Published: May 2019

Determination of biventricular dimensions, function, and ventricular–ventricular interactions (VVI) is an essential part of the echocardiographic examination in adults with pulmonary hypertension (PH); however, data from according pediatric studies are sparse. We hypothesized that left and right heart dimensions/function and VVI variables indicate disease severity and progression in children with PH. Left heart, right heart, and VVI variables (e.g. end‐systolic LV eccentricity index [LVEI], right ventricular [RV]/left ventricular [LV] dimension ratio) were echocardiographically determined in 57 children with PH, and correlated with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class (FC), N‐terminal‐pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), and invasive hemodynamic variables (e.g. pulmonary vascular resistance index [PVRi]). Clinically sicker patients (higher NYHA FC) had lower LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and higher LVEI – a surrogate of LV compression. In PH children, the ratio of systolic pulmonary arterial pressure divided by systolic systemic arterial pressure (sPAP/sSAP) and the PVRi correlated well with the LVEI (P < 0.001). Patients with more severe PH (sPAP/sSAP ratio, PVRi) had increased RV/LV and right‐to‐left atrial dimension ratios (P < 0.01). When stratified using NYHA‐FC, sicker PH children had greater RV and right atrial dimensions with lower exercise capacity, while the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion as surrogate for longitudinal systolic RV function decreased. Consistent with previous studies, serum NT‐proBNP correlated with both, sPAP/sSAP ratio (P < 0.001) and NYHA FC (P < 0.01). Taken together, the VVI variables LVEI and RV/LV dimension ratio are associated with lower FC, worse hemodynamics, and higher NT‐proBNP levels, thus highlighting the importance of ventricular interdependence in pediatric PH.
Sacred realms in virtual worlds: The making of Buddhist spaces in Second Life
Authors: Falcone Jessica M
Published: May 2019

Second Life, a virtual world, has been heralded by some scholars and transhumanists as a sacred, “heavenly” space. Through detailed ethnographic work on Buddhist religious spaces in Second Life, this article argues instead that just as in actual life, virtual life is comprised of both sacred and profane spaces. By demonstrating different types of Buddhist spaces, community-practice-oriented and individual-practice-oriented, and the meaning that these spaces hold for practitioners, readers come to understand that the sacrality in Second Life is just as contingent and constructed as it is in the actual, physical world.
Composition of the mucosa‐associated microbiota along the entire gastrointestinal tract of human individuals
Authors: Vuik FER , Dicksved J , Lam SY , Fuhler GM , van der Laan LJW , van de Winkel A , Konstantinov SR , Spaander MCW , Peppelenbosch MP , Engstrand L , Kuipers EJ
Published: May 2019

Background

Homeostasis of the gastrointestinal tract depends on a healthy bacterial microbiota, with alterations in microbiota composition suggested to contribute to diseases. To unravel bacterial contribution to disease pathology, a thorough understanding of the microbiota of the complete gastrointestinal tract is essential. To date, most microbial analyses have either focused on faecal samples, or on the microbial constitution of one gastrointestinal location instead of different locations within one individual.

Objective

We aimed to analyse the mucosal microbiome along the entire gastrointestinal tract within the same individuals.

Methods

Mucosal biopsies were taken from nine different sites in 14 individuals undergoing antegrade and subsequent retrograde double‐balloon enteroscopy. The bacterial composition was characterised using 16 S rRNA sequencing with Illumina Miseq.

Results

At double‐balloon enteroscopy, one individual had a caecal adenocarcinoma and one individual had Peutz‐Jeghers polyps. The composition of the microbiota distinctively changed along the gastrointestinal tract with larger bacterial load, diversity and abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in the lower gastrointestinal tract than the upper gastrointestinal tract, which was predominated by Proteobacteria and Firmicutes.

Conclusions

We show that gastrointestinal location is a larger determinant of mucosal microbial diversity than inter‐person differences. These data provide a baseline for further studies investigating gastrointestinal microbiota‐related disease.
Spectral Pitch Similarity is a Predictor of Perceived Change in Sound- as Well as Note-Based Music
Authors: Dean Roger T. , Milne Andrew J. , Bailes Freya
Published: May 2019

Spectral pitch similarity (SPS) is a measure of the similarity between spectra of any pair of sounds. It has proved powerful in predicting perceived stability and fit of notes and chords in various tonal and microtonal instrumental contexts, that is, with discrete tones whose spectra are harmonic or close to harmonic. Here we assess the possible contribution of SPS to listeners’ continuous perceptions of change in music with fewer discrete events and with noisy or profoundly inharmonic sounds, such as electroacoustic music. Previous studies have shown that time series of perception of change in a range of music can be reasonably represented by time series models, whose predictors comprise autoregression together with series representing acoustic intensity and, usually, the timbral parameter spectral flatness. Here, we study possible roles for SPS in such models of continuous perceptions of change in a range of both instrumental (note-based) and sound-based music (generally containing more noise and fewer discrete events). In the first analysis, perceived change in three pieces of electroacoustic and one of piano music is modeled, to assess the possible contribution of (de-noised) SPS in cooperation with acoustic intensity and spectral flatness series. In the second analysis, a broad range of nine pieces is studied in relation to the wider range of distinctive spectral predictors useful in previous perceptual work, together with intensity and SPS. The second analysis uses cross-sectional (mixed-effects) time series analysis to take advantage of all the individual response series in the dataset, and to assess the possible generality of a predictive role for SPS. SPS proves to be a useful feature, making a predictive contribution distinct from other spectral parameters. Because SPS is a psychoacoustic “bottom up” feature, it may have wide applicability across both the familiar and the unfamiliar in the music to which we are exposed.
Determining economic news about China in global news feed: Evidence from Global Database of Events, Language and Tone
Authors: Zhu Yicheng
Published: May 2019

Current literature on economic news coverage mainly focuses on the economic news about domestic economy. This study asks a further question: will international economic news be accurately reflecting the economic performance of a foreign country? This study takes China as the target country and economic news coverage from other countries from the Global Database of Events, Language and Tone for this research and constructs a Poisson Lagged Regression model for news volume and compares autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model versus autoregressive integrated moving average model for economic news tone change. The results show that international economic news coverage is largely different from domestic news coverage, and the attention of foreign news on Chinese economy is negativity related to the performance of the Shanghai Stock Index. Moreover, the economic news tone about China’s economy showed a seasonal pattern.
Characterizing Bone Mineral Density Using Lumbar Spine Computed Tomography Attenuation in Patients With Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Ward Christina M. , Arnold Mark A. , Emohare Osa
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

This study examines how many patients with distal radius fracture (DRF) eligible for bone health evaluation could potentially be screened using bone mineral density (BMD) estimation by L1 vertebra computed tomography (CT) attenuation obtained for other purposes.

Materials and Methods:

For all adult patients with DRF who presented over a 5-year period, we recorded the age, sex, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) results up to 3 years prior to injury or 1 year post-injury, and L1 CT attenuation on any CT including L1 that had been performed within 6 months of their fracture. 1 We compared the availability of L1 CT attenuation measurement to the rate of DXA scan use. We calculated the percentage of patients with osteoporosis and compared attenuation results to DXA results in those patients where both tests were available.

Results:

Of 1853 patients with DRF, an L1 CT had been obtained in 195 patients. Of the 685 patients who met criteria for osteoporosis screening, 253 (37%) patients had undergone only DXA screening, 68 (10%) patients had an L1 CT only, and 18 (2%) patients had both tests. Of the 86 patients who met criteria for osteoporosis screening and had an adequate CT, 67 (78%) demonstrated L1 attenuation <135 HU, and 79 (92%) had CT attenuation <160 HU.

Discussion:

Our study found that 10% of patients with a distal radius fracture who met the criteria for osteoporosis screening had a CT scan that could be used to estimate bone density and that the majority of those patients met criteria for osteoporosis based on CT attenuation.

Conclusions:

Utilization of opportunistic BMD screening with L1 CT attenuation offers the potential to increase osteoporosis screening from 40% to 50% of eligible patients and make the diagnosis of osteoporosis in an additional 8% of patients with DRF at no additional cost.
In vitro cobalt-stimulated hypoxia-inducible factor-1 overexpression does not correlate with cancer risk from cobalt exposure in humans
Authors: Smith Carr J , Perfetti Thomas A
Published: May 2019

Chemical-induced pulmonary carcinogenesis in humans is usually a multi-decade process. The average age at diagnosis of lung cancer in cigarette smokers, and mesothelioma in asbestos workers, is approximately 70. The carcinogenic process consists of genetic changes to normal cells usually sequenced as initiation (mutations), promotion (clonal expansion of initiated cells), and progression (carcinoma in situ to invasive carcinoma to metastatic carcinoma). Angiogenesis, the sprouting of new vessels from preexisting capillaries, plays an important role in the progression of small avascular tumors to vascularized invasive carcinomas and metastatic carcinomas. While the overall carcinogenic process is multi-decade, the transition from avascular to vascularized carcinoma is believed to take place over the course of a much more limited time span. Tumor progression is a late-stage event in carcinogenesis. About 70% of human cancers including lung cancer express hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 in the absence of cobalt exposure. Cobalt compounds administered to transformed cell lines and primary cultures of human endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and mesenchymal stem cells can elicit overexpression of HIF-1. Cobalt-induced expression of HIF-1 would not be expected to interact with either the avascular initiation or promotion phases of carcinoma development. Humans exposed long-term to cobalt leaching from implants do not have an elevated cancer risk, and neither do goats ingesting up to 667 times the recommended daily human cobalt dietary requirement throughout their 15- to 18-year life span. In vitro hypoxia-mimetic characteristics of cobalt compounds do not correlate with the absence of increased risk following long-term systemic exposure to cobalt in humans.
Endoscopic side-by-side uncovered self-expandable metal stent placement for malignant hilar biliary obstruction
Authors: Kitamura Katsuya , Yamamiya Akira , Ishii Yu , Mitsui Yuta , Yoshida Hitoshi
Published: May 2019

Aim:

To investigate outcomes of endoscopic bilateral side-by-side placement across the papilla using 10-mm-diameter uncovered self-expandable metal stents for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 23 patients who underwent endoscopic biliary uncovered self-expandable metal stent placement for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction between January 2015 and September 2016 at our institution. We performed endoscopic side-by-side placement across the papilla using 10-mm-diameter longer-model uncovered self-expandable metal stents. Outcomes included the technical and functional success rates, recurrent biliary obstruction rate, time to recurrent biliary obstruction, reintervention rate, and incidence of adverse events other than recurrent biliary obstruction.

Results:

Of the 23 patients, 10 with malignant hilar biliary obstruction underwent endoscopic side-by-side uncovered self-expandable metal stent placement across the papilla (median age, 83 years; 6 men). The locations of malignant hilar biliary obstruction were Bismuth types II ( n = 3), III ( n = 3), and IV ( n = 4). The median common bile duct diameter was 8 mm. The technical and functional success rates were 100% and 80%, respectively. Seven patients (70%) developed recurrent biliary obstruction because of stent occlusions, including early hemobilia in two patients and late tumor ingrowth in five patients. The median time to recurrent biliary obstruction was 66 (95% confidence interval: 29–483) days. Six patients (60%) required reintervention, and 1 (10%) underwent transcatheter arterial embolization for right hepatic arterial pseudoaneurysm. Early adverse events other than recurrent biliary obstruction occurred in four patients and late adverse event in one patient.

Conclusion:

Endoscopic side-by-side placement across the papilla using 10-mm-diameter uncovered self-expandable metal stents was technically feasible for unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction; however, it might be better to avoid this method for patients with malignant hilar biliary obstruction because of high recurrent biliary obstruction rate and shorter time to recurrent biliary obstruction.
Investigating the Effects of Reward Interdependence and Nonfinancial Incentives on NPD Collaboration in Diverse Project Teams
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Lianying , Li Aibin
Published: May 2019

New product development (NPD) collaboration is an essential trigger for new product success. Many scholars have emphasized the reward system as an effective tool to manage NPD collaboration. Yet, our understanding about what types of rewards should be used for NPD collaboration is still unclear. This research examines the effects of reward interdependence and nonfinancial incentives on NPD collaboration, as well as the moderating roles of team size and deep-level heterogeneity. Findings from a field study involving 83 NPD project teams in China showed that both nonfinancial incentives and reward interdependence promoted NPD collaboration. Specifically, team size negatively moderated the relationships between incentive mechanisms and NPD collaboration. The reward interdependence–NPD collaboration relationship was negatively moderated by deep-level heterogeneity. Finally, suggestions for further research and project management practices are discussed.
A Discursive Sensemaking Perspective on Project-Based Work in Public Healthcare
Authors: Lunkka Nina , Pietiläinen Ville , Suhonen Marjo
Published: May 2019

This study investigates project participants’ sensemaking of lived work experiences during periods of organizational change within Finnish public healthcare. It introduces a discursive sensemaking perspective to investigate lived experiences, that is, reflexive practitioners’ situational thinking. Drawing upon 17 interviews, the study identifies diverse repertoires through which the lived experiences are considered meaningful. These are repertoires of: (1) transformation, (2) realism, (3) politics, (4) individuality, (5) reflexivity, and (6) senselessness. The results show that project-based work in public healthcare differs from project participants’ expectations because projects are perceived to increase rather than decrease bureaucracy and include unsustainable working conditions that have to be endured.
New Approaches to Improving Survival After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: The Role of Intraperitoneal Therapy and Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Lopresti Mary L. , Bandera Christina A. , Miner Thomas J.
Published: May 2019

For women with newly diagnosed ovarian cancer, the goal of surgery is to achieve a maximal, if not complete, cytoreduction. In cases when this is not possible, whether because of the extent of disease or patient-specific reasons, neoadjuvant chemotherapy using a platinum-based combination (on a typical every-2-week schedule) is often recommended. After neoadjuvant therapy and surgery, women proceed with additional adjuvant chemotherapy, which is typically given in a similar fashion to what was done in the preoperative setting. The question remains as to whether this is the optimal strategy, particularly in light of other data suggesting the use of an alternative regimen in the adjuvant context might yield a survival advantage. In this article, we review the outcomes of randomized trials that compared primary debulking to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and contemporary neoadjuvant chemotherapy trials that incorporated a novel schedule or regimen for testing in the adjuvant setting, including both intraperitoneal and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy. We describe our center’s approach to these data, and we conclude that both options should be considered for women with ovarian cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy.
Financial Toxicity and Equitable Access to Clinical Trials
Authors: Chino Fumiko , Zafar S. Yousuf
Published: May 2019

Financial barriers to clinical trial enrollment are an area of active investigation. Financial toxicity as a concept describes how high costs and financial burden can lead to compromised care and outcomes. Despite the potential to yield large survival benefits and improved access to cutting-edge therapies, less than 5% of adult patients with cancer are enrolled in a clinical trial. Disparities in trial enrollment exist along age, ethnic, and sociodemographic lines, with younger, poorer, nonwhite patients with private insurance—the exact population who may be at highest risk for financial toxicity—less likely to participate. Cost and insurance concerns remain an obstacle for clinical trial enrollment for certain patient populations. Changing the clinical trial paradigm with a focus on addressing structural and clinical barriers to clinical trial enrollment is paramount. This includes expanding access to clinical trials within community populations, advocating for health policy changes to guarantee insurance coverage of clinical trial standard-of-care health care, and considering noncoercive financial assistance (particularly for indirect costs like travel and lodging) for participants to defray their additional costs of participation. Additional steps toward education, cost transparency, and expansion of foundation assistance may also improve equitable access to clinical trials for all.
Formidable Scenarios in Urothelial and Variant Cancers of the Urinary Tract
Authors: Aragon-Ching Jeanny B. , Choudhury Ananya , Margulis Vitaly , Yu Evan Y.
Published: May 2019

Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in the field of bladder and upper tract cancers provide opportunities for multidisciplinary care. Urothelial cancers make up the majority of the histologic subtype of bladder and upper tract cancers. Although the existence of variant histology, nonurothelial cancers, and urethral cancers is rare, these cancers pose a challenging clinical dilemma given the lack of well-defined consensus treatment guidelines. This review focuses on key issues of treatment: cisplatin ineligibility with emphasis on the definition, nuances of chemotherapy and frontline immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, use of radiation in bladder-preservation strategies, upper tract urothelial cancer management, and highlights of urothelial variants and nonurothelial tumors and management.
The DNA Damaging Revolution: PARP Inhibitors and Beyond
Authors: Yap Timothy A. , Plummer Ruth , Azad Nilofer S. , Helleday Thomas
Published: May 2019

Cancer-specific DNA repair defects are abundant in malignant tissue and present an opportunity to capitalize on these aberrations for therapeutic benefit. Early preclinical data demonstrated the concept of synthetic lethality between BRCA genetic defects and pharmacologic PARP inhibition, suggesting that there may be monotherapy activity with this class of agents and supporting the early trial testing of this molecularly driven approach. Although the first foray into the clinic for PARP inhibitors was in combination with DNA-damaging cytotoxic agents, clinical development was limited by the more-than-additive toxicity, in particular dose-limiting myelosuppression. As more tolerable single agents, PARP inhibitors are now approved for the treatment of ovarian cancer in different settings and BRCA-mutant breast cancers. Beyond PARP inhibitors, there is now a large armamentarium of potent and relatively selective inhibitors in clinical trial testing against key targets involved in the DNA damage response (DDR), including ATR, ATM, CHK1/2, WEE1, and DNA-PK. These agents are being developed for patients with molecularly selected tumors and in rational combinations with other molecularly targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors. We detail the clinical progress made in the development of PARP inhibitors, review rational combinations, and discuss the development of emerging inhibitors against novel DDR targets, including DNA repair proteins, DNA damage signaling, and DNA metabolism.