bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The magnetic phase diagrams of the ternary alloy ABpC1−p on the Bethe lattice
Authors: Albayrak Erhan
Published: May 2018

In this work, the ternary alloy (TA) of the form [Formula: see text] with spin-[Formula: see text], spin-2 and spin-[Formula: see text], respectively, is studied on the Bethe lattice in terms of exact recursion relations in the standard random approach. The bilinear interaction parameter [Formula: see text] is assumed to be ferromagnetic between the nearest-neighbor spins with spin-[Formula: see text] and spin-2, while [Formula: see text] is taken to be antiferromagnetic between spin-[Formula: see text] and spin-[Formula: see text]. The possible phase diagrams are obtained from the thermal analysis of the order parameters for the given coordination numbers z = 3,[Formula: see text]4,[Formula: see text]5 and 6. This analysis has also revealed that the model gives both second- and first-order phase transitions in addition to the compensation temperatures.
Evaluating the Quality of Drupal Software Modules
Authors: Denham Benjamin , Pears Russel , Connor Andy M.
Published: May 2018

Evaluating software modules for inclusion in a Drupal website is a crucial and complex task that currently requires manual assessment of a number of module facets. This study applied data-mining techniques to identify quality-related metrics associated with highly popular and unpopular Drupal modules. The data-mining approach produced a set of important metrics and thresholds that highlight a strong relationship between the overall perceived reliability of a module and its popularity. Areas for future research into open-source software quality are presented, including a proposed module evaluation tool to aid developers in selecting high-quality modules.
Lower bounds of success probabilities for high-fidelity approach in KLM scheme
Authors: Oshima Kazuto
Published: May 2018

In the Knill–Laflamme–Milburn (KLM) scheme, the success probability of quantum teleportation is given by [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the number of the ancilla qubits. For the high-fidelity approach in the KLM scheme, the success probability averaged for all input states is approximately given by [Formula: see text] for large [Formula: see text]. We give an exact lower bound of the success probability and show how the corresponding ancilla state is settled for the high-fidelity approach for arbitrary [Formula: see text].
Sedimentology, clay mineralogy and palaeosols of the Mid-Carnian Pluvial Episode in eastern Spain: insights into humidity and sea-level variations
Authors: Barrenechea José F. , López-Gómez José , De La Horra Raúl
Published: May 2018

This study examines rainfall variations of the Mid-Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE) based on the continental fluvial sedimentology, palaeosol and clay mineralogy records of the Stable Meseta (eastern Spain). In the formation examined, the Manuel Fm or K2 Fm, the CPE is represented by three regressive–transgressive sequences, or subunits K2.1, K2.2 and K2.3, from base to top. Each subunit broadly consists of a genetic stratigraphic sequence bearing well-developed highstand, lowstand and transgressive systems tracts. Hydromorphic features in the palaeosols suggest changes in the activity of both groundwater and surface water. The clay mineral assemblage is dominated by illite, with a minor presence of kaolinite and traces of smectite in some samples. After ruling out tectonism in the study area, climate and eustatism emerge as the main allogenic controls in the sedimentary record. Differentiated sedimentary facies and architectural elements in the K2.2 subunit were probably controlled by both a more humid climate and source area, whereas K2.1 and K2.3 were more related to base-level changes and eustatic control. The presence of more waterlogged pedotypes and of kaolinite and traces of smectite in the clay mineral assemblage of K2.2 also indicates increased humidity. Notwithstanding, our data do not point to intense rainfall periods for the CPE in eastern Spain.
Social Incentives in Organizations
Authors: Ashraf Nava , Bandiera Oriana
Published: May 2018

We review the evidence on social incentives, namely on how social interactions with colleagues, subordinates, bosses, customers, and others shape agents’ effort choices in organizations. We propose a two-way taxonomy based on ( a) whether the social group is horizontal (peers at the same level of the hierarchy) or vertical (individuals at different levels within or outside of the organization) and ( b) whether the agent's effort creates externalities for the other members of their social group. We show settings in which social incentives improve productivity and settings in which they reduce it. In most cases, the size of the effect is approximately 10%, which is half of the typical effect of performance pay. We also show that social incentives can interfere with financial incentives, making them ineffective or even detrimental. We conclude that social incentives are a powerful motivator that must be taken into account in the design of organizational policies and that more research is needed to understand how policies can shape the preferences that underpin these incentives.
MK2 mediates macrophage activation and acute lung injury by regulating let-7e miRNA
Authors: Wu Yaxian , He Huiqiong , Ding Yunhe , Liu Sirui , Zhang Depeng , Wang Jun , Jiang Hongchao , Zhang Dan , Sun Lei , Ye Richard D. , Qian Feng
Published: May 2018

MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) plays a critical role in the development of inflammation. However, the modulatory mechanisms in macrophage activation and acute lung injury (ALI) have not been completely defined. Here, we reported that MK2-deficient mice (MK2−/−) protected against sepsis-induced ALI. In response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge, MK2−/− mice and myeloid cell-specific MK2 conditional knockout mice (MK2Lyz2-KO) exhibited attenuated inflammatory response, especially producing fewer amounts of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP-2). LPS treatment in vitro resulted in reduced cytokine expression in MK2−/− bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Furthermore, we found that LPS-induced microRNA lethal-7e ( let-7e) expression was significantly increased in MK2−/− macrophages. Transfection of let-7e antagomirs into MK2−/− BMDM rescued LPS-induced expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and MIP-2. In contrast, transfection of let-7e mimics into MK2+/+BMDM decreased cytokine expression. Meanwhile, LPS-induced phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding (CREB) protein, a substrate of MK2, was downregulated in MK2−/− BMDMs. Lin28, an inhibitory molecule of let-7, was significantly reduced in MK2−/− macrophages. Our results suggested that MK2 boosts LPS-induced macrophage activation and ALI via increasing activation of CREB and consequently, the expression of Lin28 and downregulation of let-7e.
Tracheal acid or surfactant instillation raises alveolar surface tension
Authors: Nguyen Tam L. , Perlman Carrie E.
Published: May 2018

Whether alveolar liquid surface tension, T, is elevated in the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has not been demonstrated in situ in the lungs. Neither is it known how exogenous surfactant, which has failed to treat ARDS, affects in situ T. We aim to determine T in an acid-aspiration ARDS model before and after exogenous surfactant administration. In isolated rat lungs, we combine servo-nulling pressure measurement and confocal microscopy to determine alveolar liquid T according to the Laplace relation. Administering 0.01 N (pH 1.9) HCl solution by alveolar injection or tracheal instillation, to model gastric liquid aspiration, raises T. Subsequent surfactant administration fails to normalize T. Furthermore, in normal lungs, tracheal instillation of control saline or exogenous surfactant raises T. Lavaging the trachea with saline and injecting the lavage solution into the alveolus raises T, suggesting that tracheal instillation may wash T-raising airway contents to the alveolus. Adding 0.01 N HCl or 5 mM CaCl2—either of which aggregates mucins—to tracheal lavage solution reduces or eliminates the effect of lavage solution on alveolar T. Following tracheal saline instillation, liquid suctioned directly out of alveoli through a micropipette contains mucins. Additionally, alveolar injection of gastric mucin solution raises T. We conclude that 1) tracheal liquid instillation likely washes T-raising mucins to the alveolus and 2) even exogenous surfactant that could be delivered mucin-free to the alveolus might not normalize T in acid-aspiration ARDS.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrate in situ in isolated lungs that surface tension is elevated in an acid-aspiration acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) model. Following tracheal liquid instillation, also in isolated lungs, we directly sample alveolar liquid. We find that liquid instillation into normal lungs washes mucins to the alveolus, thereby raising alveolar surface tension. Furthermore, even if exogenous surfactant could be delivered mucin-free to the alveolus, exogenous surfactant might fail to normalize alveolar surface tension in acid-aspiration ARDS.
Mechanistic insights into the modulatory role of the mechanoreflex on central hemodynamics using passive leg movement in humans
Authors: Kruse Nicholas T. , Hughes William E. , Casey Darren P.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to examine the independent contributions of joint range of motion (ROM), muscle fascicle length (MFL), and joint angular velocity on mechanoreceptor-mediated central cardiovascular dynamics using passive leg movement (PLM) in humans. Twelve healthy men (age: 23 ± 2 yr, body mass index: 23.7 kg/m2) performed continuous PLM at various randomized joint angle ROMs (0°–50° vs. 50°–100° vs. 0°–100°) and joint angular velocities (“fast”: 200°/s vs. “slow”: 100°/s). Measures of heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded during baseline and during 60 s of PLM. MFL was calculated from muscle architectural measurements of fascicle pennation angle and tissue thickness (Doppler ultrasound). Percent change in MFL increased across the transition of PLM from 0° to 50° (15 ± 3%; P < 0.05) and from 0° to 100° knee flexion (27 ± 4%; P < 0.05). The average peak percent change in HR (increased, approx. +5 ± 2%; P < 0.05), CO (increased, approx. +5 ± 3%; P < 0.05), and MAP (decreased, approx. −2 ± 2%; P < 0.05) were similar between fast versus slow angular velocities when compared against shorter absolute joint ROMs (i.e., 0°–50° and 50°–100°). However, the condition that exhibited the greatest angular velocity in combination with ROM (0°–100° at 200°/s) elicited the greatest increases in HR (+13 ± 2%; P < 0.05) and CO (+12 ± 2%; P < 0.05) compared with all conditions. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between MFL and HR within 0°–100° at 200°/s condition ( r2 = 0.59; P < 0.05). These findings suggest that increasing MFL and joint ROM in combination with increased angular velocity via PLM are important components that activate mechanoreflex-mediated cardioacceleration and increased CO.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mechanoreflex is an important autonomic feedback mechanism that serves to optimize skeletal muscle perfusion during exercise. The present study sought to explore the mechanistic contributions that initiate the mechanoreflex using passive leg movement (PLM). The novel findings show that progressively increasing joint angle range of motion and muscle fascicle length via PLM, in combination with increased angular velocity, are important components that activate mechanoreflex-mediated cardioacceleration and increase cardiac output in humans.
Waste Foundry Sand Usage for Building Material Production: A First Geopolymer Record in Material Reuse
Authors: Doğan-Sağlamtimur Neslihan
Published: May 2018

In order to bring a solution to the problem of waste foundry sand (WFS) in the foundry sector and achieve its reuse, geopolymer building material (as a cementless technology) was produced from the WFS for the first time in the literature in this study. The physical and mechanical characteristics of this material were determined. In the first part of the experimental step, the sieve analysis, loose/tight unit weight, and loss of ignition of the WFS were obtained as well as the ultimate analysis. In the second step, the water absorption percentage, porosity, unit weight, and compressive strength tests were conducted on the WFS‐based geopolymer specimens activated by chemical binders (sodium hydroxide: NaOH and sodium silicate: Na2SiO3). As the unit weights of all the produced samples were lower than 1.6 g/cm3, they may be considered as lightweight building materials. The minimum compressive strength value for building wall materials was accepted as 2.5 MPa by national standards. In this study, the maximum compressive strength value was measured as 12.3 MPa for the mixture incorporation of 30% Na2SiO3 at the curing temperature of 200°C in 28 days. It was concluded that this geopolymer material is suitable for using as a building wall material.
Synergistic Effect of Quercetin andα-Lipoic Acid on Aluminium Chloride Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Al-Otaibi Sooad Saud , Arafah Maha Mohamad , Sharma Bechan , Alhomida Abdullah Salih , Siddiqi Nikhat Jamal
Published: May 2018

Objectives. The present study was carried out to study the protective effects of quercetin andα-lipoic acid alone and in combination against aluminum chloride induced neurotoxicity in rats.Materials and Methods. The study consisted of eight groups, namely, Group 1: control rats, Group 2: rats receiving aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal route (i.p) for two weeks, Group 3: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 4: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 5: rats receivingα-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 6: rats receiving lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 7: rats receivingα-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, and Group 8: rats receivingα-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks. The animals were killed after 24 hours of the last dose by cervical dislocation.Results. Aluminium chloride treatment of rats resulted in significant increases in lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl levels, and acetylcholine esterase activity in the brain. This was accompanied with significant decreases in reduced glutathione, activities of the glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Pretreatment of AlCl3exposed rats to either quercetin orα-lipoic acid also restored altered lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase to near normal levels. Quercetin orα-lipoic acid pretreatment of AlCl3exposed rats improved the protein carbonyl and reduced glutathione, glutathione reductase, and acetylcholine esterase activities in rat brains towards normal levels. Combined pretreatment of AlCl3 exposed rats with quercetin andα-lipoic acid resulted in a tendency towards normalization of most of the parameters.Conclusions. Quercetin andα-lipoic acid complemented each other in protecting the rat brain against oxidative stress induced by aluminium chloride.
Cerebral Venous Thrombosis Mimicking a Discrete Brain Mass: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: DiRenzo Dana , McMahan Zsuzsanna H. , Desai Naman S. , Manno Rebecca , Petri Michelle
Published: May 2018

The differential diagnosis for a focal brain lesion in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is broad and includes infection, malignancy, and vascular and inflammatory etiologies. One rarely considered vascular pathology is cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), which is often associated with a delay in diagnosis because of variable presentation and rare incidence. We present the case of a young woman with a new discrete brain lesion that appeared in the context of highly active SLE and was ultimately diagnosed with a CVT. We provide a literature review for diagnosis and management of cerebral venous thrombosis, a potentially serious complication of untreated systemic lupus erythematosus.
Airborne Wireless Sensor Networks for Airplane Monitoring System
Authors: Gao Shang , Dai Xuewu , Hang Yu , Guo Yuyan , Ji Qian
Published: May 2018

In traditional airplane monitoring system (AMS), data sensed from strain, vibration, ultrasound of structures or temperature, and humidity in cabin environment are transmitted to central data repository via wires. However, drawbacks still exist in wired AMS such as expensive installation and maintenance, and complicated wired connections. In recent years, accumulating interest has been drawn to performing AMS via airborne wireless sensor network (AWSN) system with the advantages of flexibility, low cost, and easy deployment. In this review, we present an overview of AMS and AWSN and demonstrate the requirements of AWSN for AMS particularly. Furthermore, existing wireless hardware prototypes and network communication schemes of AWSN are investigated according to these requirements. This paper will improve the understanding of how the AWSN design under AMS acquires sensor data accurately and carries out network communication efficiently, providing insights into prognostics and health management (PHM) for AMS in future.
A Comparative Study of Melissa officinalis Leaves and Stems Ethanolic Extracts in terms of Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and Antiproliferative Potential
Authors: Moacă Elena-Alina , Farcaş Claudia , Ghiţu Alexandra , Coricovac Dorina , Popovici Ramona , Cărăba-Meiţă Nela-Loredana , Ardelean Florina , Antal Diana Simona , Dehelean Cristina , Avram Ştefana
Published: May 2018

Melissa officinalis L. has attracted an increased interest in recent years due to its multiple pharmacological effects. This study aimed to compare two M. officinalis ethanolic extracts, obtained from leaves and stems, with regard to their antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and cytotoxic effects. M. officinalis ethanolic extracts showed a very good antioxidant activity in the DPPH test, correlated with the content in total phenols: higher in the case of M. officinalis from leaves extract (32.76 mg GAE/g) and lower for M. officinalis from stems extract (8.4 mg GAE/g). The lemon balm extracts exerted a cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB‐231) even at low concentrations (100 μg/mL), whereas, in the case of healthy HaCat cells, M. officinalis leaves extract only displayed cytotoxicity at much higher concentrations (500 and 1000 μg/mL) and M. officinalis stems extracts were highly cytotoxic (starting at 100 μg/mL). In addition, the extracts exerted inhibitory effects on cell migration and proliferation. These results provide information that confirms the high potential of M. officinalis as a source of chemopreventive agents. Moreover, these data can be considered a solid background for further in vivo studies involving mice bearing breast tumors.
Expansion of a Population of Large Monocytes (Atypical Monocytes) in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Yang Jing , Qiao Man , Li Yanxia , Hu Guohua , Song Chunxia , Xue Liping , Bai Hong , Yang Jie , Yang Xi
Published: May 2018

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is closely associated with airway inflammation including monocytes, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. Monocytes play an essential role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To elucidate the association of circulating monocyte alteration with AECOPD, we analyzed monocyte subpopulation in the peripheral blood of 16 healthy volunteers and 22 AECOPD patients at the stages of admission and remission after clinical therapy. We found a dramatic increase of a previously unreported population of large size circulating atypical monocytes (A Mo) in AECOPD patients, characterized by higher forward scatter and lower side scatter values than the typical monocytes (T Mo) which were observed predominantly in healthy individuals. Further analysis showed that A Mo expressed higher levels of CD16, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and chemotactic protein-1 receptor-2 (CCR2) than T Mo. In contrast, the expression of class II antigen (HLA-DR) by A Mo was lower than T Mo. More importantly, we observed that the percentage of circulating A Mo among total monocytes correlated with the length of hospital stay (time to remission) and disease duration. The data suggest that circulating A Mo might have the potential to serve as a biomarker in the diagnosis and prognosis of AECOPD.
Heuristic Determination of Resolving Controls for Exact and Approximate Controllability of Nonlinear Dynamic Systems
Authors: Khurshudyan Asatur Zh.
Published: May 2018

Dealing with practical control systems, it is equally important to establish the controllability of the system under study and to find corresponding control functions explicitly. The most challenging problem in this path is the rigorous analysis of the state constraints, which can be especially sophisticated in the case of nonlinear systems. However, some heuristic considerations related to physical, mechanical, or other aspects of the problem may allow coming up with specific hierarchic controls containing a set of free parameters. Such an approach allows reducing the computational complexity of the problem by reducing the nonlinear state constraints to nonlinear algebraic equations with respect to the free parameters. This paper is devoted to heuristic determination of control functions providing exact and approximate controllability of dynamic systems with nonlinear state constraints. Using the recently developed approach based on Green’s function method, the controllability analysis of nonlinear dynamic systems, in general, is reduced to nonlinear integral constraints with respect to the control function. We construct parametric families of control functions having certain physical meanings, which reduce the nonlinear integral constraints to a system of nonlinear algebraic equations. Regimes such as time-harmonic, switching, impulsive, and optimal stopping ones are considered. Two concrete examples arising from engineering help to reveal advantages and drawbacks of the technique.
Calculation Model and Decoupling Coefficient Sensitivity Study of Periphery Hole for Eccentric Decoupled Charge in Highway Tunnels
Authors: Wang Yuanqing , Liu Junfeng
Published: May 2018

On the basis of the eccentric decoupled charge form on site and borehole concentric decoupled computational theory, the calculation model of eccentric decoupling charge would be established in the present study. The calculation model takes into account the influence factors such as damage to the surrounding rock, air, and water decoupled media. Besides, based on the proposed calculation model, blasting effect of a small‐diameter EJ‐102 emulsion explosive is calculated by using ANSYS LS‐DYNA. The influence of decoupling coefficient, different rock grade, and different RQD value on blasting effect is obtained by sensitivity analysis of the simulated parameters. Then the calculated results are compared with the empirical results. The blasting parameters of fractured rock mass are also optimized by numerical simulation.
Long-Term Omalizumab Treatment: A Multicenter, Real-Life, 5-Year Trial
Authors: Yorgancıoğlu Arzu , Öner Erkekol Ferda , Mungan Dilşad , Erdinç Münevver , Gemicioğlu Bilun , Özşeker Zeynep Ferhan , Bayrak Değirmenci  Papatya , Naycı Sibel , Çilli Aykut , Erdenen Füsun , Kırmaz Cengiz , Ediger Dane , Yalçın Arzu Didem , Büyüköztürk Suna , Öztürk Sami , Güleç Mustafa , Işık Sacide Rana , Kalyoncu Ali Fuat , Göksel Özlem , Aydın Ömür , Havlucu Yavuz , Baloğlu Ar İdilhan , Erdoğdu Ahmet
Published: May 2018

Background: Omalizumab has demonstrated therapeutic benefits both in controlled clinical trials and real-life studies. However, research concerning the long-term effects and tolerability of omalizumab is needed. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of treatment with omalizumab for up to 5 years. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective, chart-based study was carried out to compare documented exacerbations, hospitalizations, systemic steroid requirement, FEV1, and asthma control test (ACT) results during 1 year prior to omalizumab treatment versus at 1, 3, and 5 years of treatment. Adverse events and reasons for discontinuation were also recorded at each time point. Results: Four hundred and sixty-five patients were enrolled in the study. Outcome variables had improved after the 1st year and were sustained after the 3rd and 5th years of treatment with omalizumab. Omalizumab treatment reduced the asthma exacerbation rate by 71.3% (p < 0.001) at 1 year, 64.3% (p < 0.001) at 3 years, and 54.8% (p = 0.002) at 5 years. The hospitalization rate also decreased; by the 5th year of the treatment no patients were hospitalized. ACT results had also improved significantly: 12 (p < 0.001) at 1 year, 12 (p < 0.001) at 3 years, and 12 (p = 0.002) at 5 years. Overall, 12.7% of patients reported adverse events (most of these were mild-to-moderate) and the overall dropout rate was 9.0%. Conclusion: Omalizumab had a significant effect on asthma outcomes and this effect was maintained over 5 years. The drug was found to be generally safe and treatment compliance was good.
Seafood Long-Chain n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Authors: Rimm Eric B. , Appel Lawrence J. , Chiuve Stephanie E. , Djoussé Luc , Engler Mary B. , Kris-Etherton Penny M. , Mozaffarian Dariush , Siscovick David S. , Lichtenstein Alice H. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Nutrition Committee of the Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Epidemiology and Prevention; Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; and Council on Clinical Cardiology
Published: May 2018

Since the 2002 American Heart Association scientific statement “Fish Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Cardiovascular Disease,” evidence from observational and experimental studies and from randomized controlled trials continues to emerge to further substantiate the beneficial effects of seafood long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. A recent American Heart Association science advisory addressed the specific effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on clinical cardiovascular events. This American Heart Association science advisory extends that review and offers further support to include n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from seafood consumption. Several potential mechanisms have been investigated, including antiarrhythmic, anti-inflammatory, hematologic, and endothelial, although for most, longer-term dietary trials of seafood are warranted to substantiate the benefit of seafood as a replacement for other important sources of macronutrients. The present science advisory reviews this evidence and makes a suggestion in the context of the
2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
and in consideration of other constituents of seafood and the impact on sustainability. We conclude that 1 to 2 seafood meals per week be included to reduce the risk of congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke, and sudden cardiac death, especially when seafood replaces the intake of less healthy foods.
Determinants and Outcomes of Vasoplegia Following Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: Tecson Kristen M. , Lima Brian , Lee Andy Y. , Raza Fayez S. , Ching Grace , Lee Cheng‐Han , Felius Joost , Baxter Ronald D. , Still Sasha , Collier Justin D. G. , Hall Shelley A. , Joseph Susan M.
Published: May 2018

Background

Vasoplegia is associated with adverse outcomes following cardiac surgery; however, its impact following left ventricular assist device implantation is largely unexplored.

Methods and Results

In 252 consecutive patients receiving a left ventricular assist device, vasoplegia was defined as the occurrence of normal cardiac function and index but with the need for intravenous vasopressors within 48 hours following surgery for >24 hours to maintain a mean arterial pressure >70 mm Hg. We further categorized vasoplegia as
none
;
mild
, requiring 1 vasopressor (vasopressin, norepinephrine, or high‐dose epinephrine [>5 μg/min]); or
moderate to severe
, requiring ≥2 vasopressors. Predictors of vasoplegia severity were determined using a cumulative logit (ordinal logistic regression) model, and 1‐year mortality was evaluated using competing‐risks survival analysis. In total, 67 (26.6%) patients developed mild vasoplegia and 57 (22.6%) developed moderate to severe vasoplegia. The multivariable model for vasoplegia severity utilized preoperative Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) profile, central venous pressure, systolic blood pressure, and intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass time, which yielded an area under the curve of 0.76. Although no significant differences were noted in stroke or pump thrombosis rates (
P
=0.87 and
P
=0.66, respectively), respiratory failure and major bleeding increased with vasoplegia severity (
P
<0.01). Those with moderate to severe vasoplegia had a significantly higher risk of mortality than those without vasoplegia (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–4.18;
P
=0.03).

Conclusions

Vasoplegia is predictive of unfavorable outcomes, including mortality. Risk factors for future research include preoperative
INTERMACS
profile, central venous pressure, systolic blood pressure, and intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass time.
Measuring Physical Activity With Implanted Cardiac Devices: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rosman Lindsey , Lampert Rachel , Sears Samuel F. , Burg Matthew M.
Published: May 2018

Background

Physical activity is predictive of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices, yet it is not regularly assessed in routine care. Current‐generation cardiovascular implantable electronic devices, however, continuously monitor patient activity through a built‐in accelerometer, which provides new opportunities to remotely assess patient activity, detect changes in clinical status, and incorporate these data in risk stratification models. This review critically examines the literature on device‐measured physical activity (D‐
PA
), with a focus on identifying methodological issues that may affect interpretation of study results.

Methods and Results

We conducted a systematic review of D‐
PA
studies published from January 1 1995 to December 30 2017, identifying 29 studies meeting inclusion criteria, 5 of which were validation reports. Few technical details about D‐
PA
sensors are reported, and procedures for analyzing and interpreting D‐
PA
data are heterogeneous. Trends in D‐
PA
over time and associations with clinical outcomes were reported by 22 studies, and in 7 studies, D‐
PA
was combined with other device parameters in risk stratification models, demonstrating modest‐to‐good sensitivity in predicting acute heart failure decompensation, hospitalization, and mortality.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that D‐
PA
may be useful for assessing physical activity and predicting clinical outcomes in patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices when combined with other device parameters. Future work must address challenges related to D‐
PA
data measurement, interpretation, and generalizability to support expanded clinical applications of this technology.
A new combination in Mononeuria (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: DILLENBERGER MARKUS S. , RABELER RICHARD K.
Published: May 2018

The nomenclatural change Mononeuria caroliniana comb. nov. is proposed on the basis of molecular phylogenetic results analyzing the nuclear internal transcribed spacer.
Lectotypification of three names in Justicia (Acanthaceae)
Authors: SOUMYA PULIYAKODE , SUNOJKUMAR PURAYIDATHKANDY
Published: May 2018

Justicia Linneaus (1753: 15) is the largest genus of Acanthaceae with about 600 species, distributed mainly in the tropical and subtropical regions, extending into warm temperate zones in Europe, Asia and North America (Graham 1988). In India, the genus is represented by about 51 species and 5 varieties (Karthikeyan et al. 2009). During the systematic studies on the genus Justicia, we could observe that several names are to be typified to avoid ambiguity in the application of names. Three such names (Justicia salsoloides T. Anderson, Justicia prostrata (Roxb. ex C.B.Clarke) Gamble, and Justicia aquatica Benoist are lectotypified here according to Art. 9.2, 9.11 & 9.12 of the ICN (McNeill et al., 2012).
Nomenclature and epitypification of Vriesea (Bromeliaceae) species described in Vellozo’s Flora fluminensis
Authors: KESSOUS IGOR M. , SALGUEIRO FABIANO , COSTA ANDREA F.
Published: May 2018

In the eighteenth century, José Mariano da Conceição Vellozo in his work Flora Fluminensis, sought to expand the floristic knowledge of Rio de Janeiro and surroundings. This was the first flora of Brazil written and edited by a native naturalist. However, the existence and location of the type material of species described in this work are not known. Furthermore, the protologues associated with the plates of some taxa are not descriptive enough. The nomenclatural revision of the two Vriesea species (basionym: Tillandsia) currently accepted, described in Vellozo’s Flora Fluminensis are presented here. Two epitypes, a new synonym and two excluded names are proposed. In addition, a brief taxonomic history, nomenclatural and taxonomic notes are presented.
Lectotypification and new data on distribution of Glyptopetalum sclerocarpum (Celastraceae)
Authors: SAVINOV IVAN A. , NURALIEV MAXIM S. , VISLOBOKOV NIKOLAY A. , PAN BO , WEN FANG , FU LONG-FEI , WEI YI-GANG , AVERYANOV LEONID V.
Published: May 2018

Taxonomy and geographical distribution of Glyptopetalum sclerocarpum are revised. Type material of this species is analyzed and lectotypification is provided; the specimen from CAL (CAL0000007365) is designated as a lectotype. Distribution area of G. sclerocarpum is circumscribed and a number of inconsistencies found in earlier works are resolved. Occurrence of G. sclerocarpum in Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and southern China is confirmed. The presence of this species in Guangxi of China is reported for the first time; its presence and distribution in Vietnam are substantiated by herbarium collections. Map of distribution of G. sclerocarpum and G. vidalii, a poorly known and morphologically similar species, is provided.
Two new species and two new records of myxomycetes from subtropical forests in China
Authors: GAO YANG , YAN SHU-ZHEN , WANG GAO-WEI , CHEN SHUANG-LIN
Published: May 2018

Two new myxomycetes from subtropical forests of China, Arcyria aeruginosa sp. nov. and Diderma subochraceum sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Arcyria aeruginosa occurred on rotten stem of bamboo and differs from all known species of the genus in having dense spines on inner surface of cups. The diagnostic feature of D. subochraceum is single-layered peridium which dehisces by longitudinal or stellate slit. Preliminary phylogenetic analyses based on partial 18S rDNA sequences support the establishment of the two new species. Additionally, Didymium saturnus H.W. Keller and Fuligo luteonitens L.G. Krieglst. & Nowotny are reported from China for the first time.
A Maieutic Exploration of Nudging Strategies for Regional Climate Applications Using the WRF Model
Authors: Spero Tanya L. , Nolte Christopher G. , Mallard Megan S. , Bowden Jared H.
Published: May 2018

The use of nudging in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model to constrain regional climate downscaling simulations is gaining in popularity because it can reduce error and improve consistency with the driving data. While some attention has been paid to whether nudging is beneficial for downscaling, very little research has been performed to determine best practices. In fact, many published papers use the default nudging configuration (which was designed for numerical weather prediction), follow practices used by colleagues, or adapt methods developed for other regional climate models. Here, a suite of 45 three-year simulations is conducted with WRF over the continental United States to systematically and comprehensively examine a variety of nudging strategies. The simulations here use a longer test period than did previously published works to better evaluate the robustness of each strategy through all four seasons, through multiple years, and across nine regions of the United States. The analysis focuses on the evaluation of 2-m temperature and precipitation, which are two of the most commonly required downscaled output fields for air quality, health, and ecosystems applications. Several specific recommendations are provided to effectively use nudging in WRF for regional climate applications. In particular, spectral nudging is preferred over analysis nudging. Spectral nudging performs best in WRF when it is used toward wind above the planetary boundary layer (through the stratosphere) and temperature and moisture only within the free troposphere. Furthermore, the nudging toward moisture is very sensitive to the nudging coefficient, and the default nudging coefficient in WRF is too high to be used effectively for moisture.
Beyond the War: Nazi Propaganda Aims in Spain during the Second World War
Authors: Peñalba-Sotorrío Mercedes
Published: May 2018

This article argues that the objectives pursued by Nazi propaganda in Spain went far beyond merely securing Spanish participation in the Second World War. Through the examination of under-utilized materials from Spanish and German archives, including the previously inaccessible archive of José Luis de Arrese, general secretary of the Falange, this article shows that propaganda campaigns varied in means, content and dissemination, depending on the evolution of the conflict. The aims of these campaigns reflect in turn Nazi interests in Spain, from protecting economic assets in the Peninsula, to ensuring the supply of raw materials to the war effort, and turning Spain into a bridgehead for German interests in North Africa and Latin America. The article shows how a combination of ideology and opportunism, conveniently balanced by the ambassadors’ realpolitik, allowed for fruitful collaboration with the Falange. This was central to the development of the propaganda campaigns. I contend that by looking more closely at the ramifications of Spanish neutrality, we can further analyse how Spain fitted into the Nazis’ overarching foreign policy and evaluate whether this was the product of opportunism or historical continuities with pre-war policies, including German propaganda aims in Spain during the First World War.
Arresting Dentine Caries with Silver Diamine Fluoride: What’s Behind It?
Authors: Mei M.L. , Lo E.C.M. , Chu C.H.
Published: May 2018

Unlike other fluoride-based caries preventive agents, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can simultaneously prevent and arrest coronal and root dentine caries. The profound clinical success of SDF has drawn many clinicians and researchers to study the mechanism of SDF in arresting dentine caries. This critical review discusses how silver and fluoride contribute to caries arrest, in terms of their effects on bacteria as well as on the mineral and organic content of dentine. Silver interacts with bacterial cell membrane and bacterial enzymes, which can inhibit bacterial growth. Silver can also dope into hydroxyapatite and have an antibacterial effect on silver-doped hydroxyapatite. Furthermore, silver is also a strong inhibitor of cathepsins and inhibits dentine collagen degradation. Early studies proposed that silver hardened caries lesions by forming silver phosphate. However, recent studies found that little silver phosphate remained on the arrested dentine lesion. The principal silver precipitate was silver chloride, which could not contribute to the significant hardening of the arrested lesions. On the other hand, fluoride enhances mineral formation by forming fluorohydroxyapatite with reduced solubility. A significant increase in microhardness occurs with an elevated level of calcium and phosphorus but not silver on the surface layer of the arrested dentine caries lesion following SDF treatment. Fluoride also inhibits matrix metalloproteinases activities and therefore inhibits dentine collagen degradation. The combination of silver and fluoride in an alkaline solution has a synergistic effect in arresting dentine caries. The alkaline property of SDF provides an unfavorable environment for collagen enzyme activation. Understanding the mechanisms of SDF in arresting dentine caries helps clinicians to develop appropriate protocols for the use of SDF in clinical care.
Cultural Engagement and the Economic Performance of the Cultural and Creative Industries: An Occupational Critique
Authors: Campbell Peter , O’Brien Dave , Taylor Mark
Published: May 2018

This article presents a new critical engagement with the concept of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs), focusing on the rationale for grouping occupations and industries under this label. We show how the definition of ‘creativity’ used to demonstrate CCIs’ economic performance remains contested and variable, particularly with regard to the inclusion of specific parts of the IT sector. In demonstrating the importance of IT to the economic narrative regarding CCIs, we then unfold a related critique, exploring patterns in cultural consumption within CCI occupations. We demonstrate how some CCI workers have distinctively high cultural consumption, others reflect their broader social class, and some, including IT workers, show lower than expected consumption. Overall, we question the coherence of the prevailing CCI category, particularly in government policy, and suggest a new mode of ‘cultural’ occupational analysis for the sociology of CCIs.
Design of novel running leggings with thermoplastic polyurethane membrane compression zones
Authors: Goncu Berk Gozde , Kahveci Sinem
Published: May 2018

Compression garments are widely used by athletes to improve athletic performance and to avoid potential injuries. Some compression garments are developed to exert pressure on muscle groups via thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) membrane layers laminated on the textile surface. This study investigates the effect of novel TPU membrane patterns on muscle performance of the lower extremities and on the comfort parameters of air and water vapor permeability. Three novel running leggings with TPU membrane compression zones were designed to exert pressure on the major muscle groups used during running. Electromyography (EMG) measurements of the female participants wearing the designed leggings with TPU membranes, conventional leggings and shorts were recorded during a standardized squat protocol via a wireless surface EMG system. A repeated measures analysis of variance with a Greenhouse–Geisser correction determined that the mean root of mean square values for the EMG signals retrieved from the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius and hamstring muscles while wearing a specific legging design revealed statistically significant reductions in muscle activation. On the other hand, comfort tests exhibited low water vapor permeability and air permeability results when the textile surface was laminated with the TPU membrane. TPU membranes laminated on athletic wear to create compression zones could be effective in reducing muscle activation. Comfort performance is another essential design parameter that should be integrated into the design decisions. Large surfaces of solid TPU membranes should be minimized and surface textures should be employed for increased breathability.
Repairing the Ladder to Heaven
Authors: Wilkes Kristin
Published: May 2018

Harriet Beecher Stowe and the novel form have both long been associated with the secular. But scholars often conflate two definitions of “secular,” one being the sense of “earthly,” the other the sense of “antireligious.” This causes them to misread Stowe as moving away from religion. In The Minister’s Wooing, Stowe criticizes a type of Calvinism by emphasizing earthly experience as a source of religious knowledge. Both the theologians she examines and many modern critics assume a binary between the secular and the religious that Stowe dismantles. The novel form, far from inherently irreligious, was ideal for her theological purposes.
Inside Looking In: Complicity and Critique
Authors: Ludwig Kathryn
Published: May 2018

Although postsecular criticism seems dedicated to the deconstruction of an untenable religious/secular binary, the discourse harbors an unacknowledged complicity with the very terms we attempt to deconstruct. Responding to challenges by Tracy Fessenden and Laura Levitt, the essay recommends what Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak names a “productive acknowledgment of complicity” for postsecular studies.
Realistic Evaluation of a Rapid Response System: Context, Mechanisms, and Outcomes
Authors: Bunch Jacinda L. , Groves Patricia S. , Perkhounkova Yelena
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to describe and explore differences between rapid response system events in a Midwestern community hospital through context, mechanism, and outcome factors. The design was a retrospective review of 1,939 adult inpatient events that occurred on medical (62.8%) and surgical units (37.2%) over 92 months. The immediate outcomes of the events were stabilization (59.0%), transfer to a higher level of care (39%), and cardiopulmonary arrest (2%). Nurses activated 94% of all rapid response events; respiratory (38.8%) and cardiac (29.2%) symptoms were the most common triggers, and worry alone triggered 23% of all events. Medical and surgical events were significantly different with regard to antecedents to unit arrival, most common triggers, immediate clinical outcomes, and occurrence during resource-limited times. Understanding rapid response events and differences between medical and surgical units is important to improve early identification of deterioration and thus intervention for vulnerable patients.
Building Theory From Media Ideology: Coding for Power in Journalistic Discourse
Authors: Reynolds Chelsea
Published: May 2018

Critical discourse analysis (CDA) is an increasingly important approach for critical-qualitative communication scholarship. This essay has three purposes: (1) to explain the history and applications of CDA, (2) to provide an empirical snapshot of how CDA has been used in journalism studies research, and (3) to provide a methodological intervention for improving CDA research in our field. An exploratory analysis of 17 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication journal articles reveals that CDA research on journalism topics has focused on race and ethnicity, analyzed mainstream print news outlets, and applied CDA as a method in its own right. Authors have neither adequately defined discourse for readers nor have they sufficiently explained their coding procedures. Journalism scholars must improve the transparency of our coding methods, and we must examine ideological formations beyond dominant-hegemonic discourses. By analyzing mainstream journalism, alternative media, and online media side-by-side, CDA researchers can build stronger theory about ideology’s role in journalistic contexts.
Un Naw Chwech Wyth
Authors: Hill Sarah
Published: May 2018

The politically-oriented Anglo-American popular music of the 1960s was notable for its ability to inspire activism in cultures around the globe. In this paper I focus on the relationship between popular music and political activism in Wales, and suggest that 1968 was but one brief point on a much longer timeline: an arbitrary marker in local political terms, but part of a larger global motion toward radical social change.