bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐resolution deep functional imaging of the whole mouse brain by photoacoustic computed tomography in vivo
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Li Lei , Lin Li , Hu Peng , Shi Junhui , He Yun , Zhu Liren , Zhou Yong , Wang Lihong V.
Published: June 2017

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) is a non‐invasive imaging technique offering high contrast, high resolution, and deep penetration in biological tissues. We report a PACT system equipped with a high frequency linear transducer array for mapping the microvascular network of a whole mouse brain with the skull intact and studying its hemodynamic activities. The linear array was scanned in the coronal plane to collect data from different angles, and full‐view images were synthesized from the limited‐view images in which vessels were only partially revealed. We investigated spontaneous neural activities in the deep brain by monitoring the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood vessels and observed strong interhemispherical correlations between several chosen functional regions, both in the cortical layer and in the deep regions. We also studied neural activities during an epileptic seizure and observed the epileptic wave spreading around the injection site and the wave propagating in the opposite hemisphere.

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Identification of Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ge Wen‐Han , Lin Yong , Li Sen , Zong Xuefeng , Ge Zhong‐Chun
Published: June 2017

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a common disease with serious consequences in mortality and cost. Here we aim to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) as biomarkers for early diagnosis of AMI. The microarray data of AMI was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), including two independent types of research GSE66360 and GSE62646. The DEGs between control and processed samples were screened out by using limma package. Meanwhile, we performed functional analysis of GO terms and/or KEGG pathways to observe the enriched pathways of the DEGs. Finally, regression analysis of raw data was performed by using packet affyPLM in R language. Dataset GSE62646 contained 53 DEGs (FC log2>1 and P value <0.05) between first‐day samples from 28 STEMI patients and control samples from 14 patients without myocardial infarction history. There were 12 up‐regulated and 41 down‐regulated genes, 35 DEGs annotated. In GSE66360, a total of 3034 DEGs between 32 AMI patients and 38 healthy persons were obtained, including 1861 up‐regulated and 1173 down‐regulated DEGs. The comparison of the DEGs in two datasets revealed four common up‐regulated genes (EGR1, STAB1, SOCS3, TMEM176A). In enrichment analysis, STAB1, SOCS3, EGR1 involved in metabolic regulation and signaling pathways related to coronary artery disease with a characteristic change (P < 0.05). The DEGs, especially the four up‐regulated common genes, could serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis of AMI. Additionally, the relative biological pathways these DEGs enriched in might provide a good reference to explore the molecular expression mechanism of AMI. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 650–658, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Driving Aggression and Anxiety: Intersections, Assessment, and Interventions
Authors: Zinzow Heidi M. , Jeffirs Stephanie M.
Published: June 2017

Objective

Driving aggression and anxiety are significant contributors to risky driving and motor vehicle crashes (MVCs), which are leading causes of U.S. morbidity and mortality. Even though aggression and anxiety can be conceptualized as related features of the fight‐or‐flight response, literature on these topics has not been integrated. Driving aggression and anxiety are also transdiagnostic constructs that span multiple psychiatric disorders. Assessment and treatment of these complex problems must be understood to reduce the public health burden of MVCs.

Method

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PsycInfo and Google Scholar.

Results

Definitions and prevalence of constructs including driving anger, aggressive driving, posttraumatic stress disorder, driving phobia, and transdiagnostic factors are delineated. Psychosocial correlates and assessment instruments are reviewed. Theoretical models that explicate personological, affective, cognitive, and behavioral components are explored. Differential and shared processes underlying driving aggression and anxiety are examined. Interventions are described, with a focus on promising cognitive‐behavioral methods.

Conclusion

Driving aggression and anxiety likely share affective and cognitive characteristics such as emotional reactivity and distorted threat appraisals. Further research is needed to support theoretical models linking driving aggression and anxiety, and to validate assessment instruments that capture both constructs. Epidemiologic studies are needed to determine norms, prevalence, and clinical cutpoints. Integration of interventions for these interrelated problems could ultimately reduce risky driving and MVCs.
Do you know otitis media with ANCA‐Associated Vasculitis (OMAAV)?
Authors: Hisata Yoshio , Sasaki Eisuke , Ishimaru Koutaro , Harada Yousuke , Nakano Hirohumi , Naitou Shinji , Sugioka Takashi
Published: June 2017

Hearing loss is often the only symptom of OMAAV at initial presentation, thus making early diagnosis difficult. We present OMAAV in a 70‐year‐old woman with hearing loss and dry cough. Otoscopy showed otitis media with effusion. Audiometry showed mixed hearing loss, especially in the right ear. Serum myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody was positive. Image analyses showed lung lesion and interstitial pneumonia, while bronchoscopy showed possible microscopic polyangiitis. After starting and tapering prednisolone, respiratory and otologic symptoms improved. When examining patients with acute otologic symptoms and suspected lung and/or renal disease, OMAAV should be included in differential diagnosis.
Economical Sponge Phantom for Teaching, Understanding, and Researching A‐ and B‐Line Reverberation Artifacts in Lung Ultrasound
Authors: Blüthgen Christian , Sanabria Sergio , Frauenfelder Thomas , Klingmüller Volker , Rominger Marga
Published: June 2017

This project evaluated a low‐cost sponge phantom setup for its capability to teach and study A‐ and B‐line reverberation artifacts known from lung ultrasound and to numerically simulate sound wave interaction with the phantom using a finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) model. Both A‐ and B‐line artifacts were reproducible on B‐mode ultrasound imaging as well as in the FDTD‐based simulation. The phantom was found to be an easy‐to‐set up and economical tool for understanding, teaching, and researching A‐ and B‐line artifacts occurring in lung ultrasound. The FDTD method–based simulation was able to reproduce the artifacts and provides intuitive insight into the underlying physics.
Effect of Betamethasone on Fetal Pulmonary and Umbilical Artery Doppler Velocimetry and Relationship With Respiratory Distress Syndrome Development
Authors: Güngör Emre Sinan , İlhan Gülşah , Gültekin Hüseyin , Zebitay Ali Galip , Cömert Serdar , Verit Fatma Ferda
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. It is primarily a disease of premature neonates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of maternal betamethasone administration on the fetal pulmonary arteries (PAs) and umbilical arteries (UAs) and the correlation between RDS development and PA Doppler results.

Methods

Forty singleton pregnancies between 24 and 34 gestational weeks with a diagnosis of preterm birth were included prospectively. They received corticosteroids to enhance fetal lung maturity. Fetal PA and UA Doppler parameters were evaluated before and 48 to 72 hours after steroid administration. Maternal records were matched to neonatal charts, and demographic and outcome data were abstracted.

Results

There were no differences between groups for maternal age, body mass index, mode of delivery, and mean GA at steroid administration. Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were significantly lower for neonates who developed RDS (P < .05). There were no statistically significant differences in PA Doppler results between fetuses who developed RDS and those who did not, and there were no significant differences in PA Doppler results before and after steroid administration for both groups. The UA pulsatility and resistive indices were significantly lower after steroid administration for the neonates who developed RDS (P < .05).

Conclusions

There were no significant differences in PA Doppler indices for fetuses with or without RDS after steroid administration.
Comparative Echogenicity of an Epidural Catheter and 2 New Catheters Designed for Ultrasound‐Guided Continuous Peripheral Nerve Blocks
Authors: Moy Daniel M. , Kim T. Edward , Harrison T. Kyle , Leng Jody C. , Carvalho Brendan , Howard Steven K. , Shum Cynthia , Kou Alex , Mariano Edward R. ,   Anesthesiology‐Directed Advanced Procedural Training (ADAPT) Research Group
Published: June 2017

Visualization of the catheter during ultrasound‐guided continuous nerve block performance may be difficult but is an essential skill for regional anesthesiologists. The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate 2 newer catheters designed for enhanced echogenicity and compare them to a widely used catheter not purposely designed for ultrasound guidance. Outcomes were the numbers of first‐place rankings among all 3 catheters and scores on individual echogenicity criteria as assessed by 2 blinded reviewers. Catheters designed for echogenicity are not superior to an older regional anesthesia catheter, and results suggest that catheter preference for ultrasound‐guided placement may be subjective.
Sample size required to characterize area use of tracked seabirds
Authors: Thaxter Chris B. , Clark Nigel A. , Ross‐Smith Viola H. , Conway Greg J. , Bouten Willem , Burton Niall H. K.
Published: June 2017

Conflicts in resource use between humans and wildlife populations are increasingly determined through quantitative approaches. To better understand interactions between birds and human activities in the marine environment, telemetry is routinely used to characterize the area use of species, but evaluations are often based on a small number of individuals taken as representative of a local population studied. Furthermore, the relative importance of the number of animals required and for what duration they should be tracked has received little attention. We examined the central‐place foraging movements of 24 lesser black‐backed gulls (Larus fuscus) from a protected population from 1 March to 31 August during 2010–2013. Using bootstrapping and non‐linear modeling, we investigated whether sample sizes were sufficient to characterize offshore area use by considering the cumulative area use for an increasing number of birds and duration of tracking. Box‐and‐whisker analysis suggested a minimum of 13 birds and a precautionary upper maximum of 41 birds were needed to describe 95% of the estimated area use of the population (defined by 100% occupancy). Tracking fewer birds for longer was more important than tracking more birds for less time. A period of 145 days was required to characterize area use for 13–41 birds; however, offshore areas were used primarily after May, meaning that a 97‐day tracking period from May onwards was also representative. Predicted and observed areas were strongly correlated, and the predicted area of 15 birds for 151 days was 91% of the total estimated for the population. These findings suggest that the data were suitable for determining interaction with offshore developments, and were characteristic of the population. This study has revealed the power of a long‐term tracking dataset, and has uncovered further complexities surrounding study design and analysis that may shape conclusions drawn. The method and considerations raised have wider applicability for other datasets where human‐wildlife resource use conflicts need to be assessed. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Effect of 1.5 wt% tin addition on the properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy
Authors: Mahallawy N. El , Akdesir M. , Palkowski H.
Published: June 2017

In this paper, 1.5 wt%Sn was added to the AZ31 magnesium alloy aiming at improving the mechanical properties by using a low cost alloying element. Both alloys were prepared in the cast/heat treated (HT), rolled at 350 °C, rolled/heat treated at 400 °C and extruded at 350 °C. The results indicate that with addition of tin an improvement was obtained in both tensile strength and ductility of the AZ31 alloy in the cast/heat treated and in the extruded conditions. The yield and ultimate tensile strengths reached 98 MPa and 224 MPa respectively with 14 % elongation in the cast/heat treated condition while in the extruded condition these values were 212 MPa and 286 MPa with 20 % elongation. The tensile strength was even higher after rolling reaching 315 MPa for AZ31 with tin addition; however, as the material temperature during the last passes has decreased to relatively low values, the % elongation decreased to 1 %. After heat treatment at 400 °C for 2 hours the % elongation was restored and reached 12 %; this was accompanied by a decrease in tensile strength which reached 276 MPa. The results are discussed in relation to the microstructure evolution including grain size, phase identification, and volume fraction of phases.
Synthesis and characterization of films based on cross linked blends of poly (vinylalcohol) and poly (vinylpyrrolidone) with glutaraldehyde for tissue engineering application
Authors: Pallavi P. , Kumar G. Mukesh
Published: June 2017

In these recent years, polymer blending is one of the significant interests by tissue engineering experts, since blending could produce biomaterials with enhanced physical and biological properties compare to the parent materials. In this context, present study aims at formation and characterization of polymeric blend of poly (vinylalcohol) and poly (vinylpyrrolidone) produced for tissue engineering application. Both polymers are blended at different concentrations to obtain films and nanofibers using solvent casting and electrospinning method respectively. The successful blending is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscope analysis and X‐ray diffraction. Later glutaraldehyde was added to chemically cross link the polymers and its effect was investigated on swelling and solubility properties of the blend. Experimental results reveal a relevant enhancement in the properties of poly (vinylalcohol) and poly (vinylpyrrolidone) blend when glutaraldehyde was added.
Salts Influence Cathechins and Flavonoids Encapsulation in Liposomes: A Molecular Dynamics Investigation
Authors: Laudadio Emiliano , Mobbili Giovanna , Minnelli Cristina , Massaccesi Luca , Galeazzi Roberta
Published: June 2017

Cathechins and flavonoids are responsible of numerous health benefits. Two of the most representatives’ compounds for their antioxidant and therapeutic effects are Epigallocatechin 3‐Gallate (EGCG), from green tea extracts, and morelloflavone (MF), from Garcinia dulcis. Here we explore, by atomistic Molecular Dynamics simulations, how EGCG and MF interact with lipid bilayers and we show the salts’ influence on their encapsulation degree in neutral liposomes. As a result, we found out that EGCGs naturally bind to the hydrophilic regions of phospholipids, positioning themselves mostly at the interface between water and lipid phases. The presence of a salt clearly influences the EGCG molecules’ absorption and the total effect depends strongly on the salt nature and concentration. Beside, for MF, we observed a high stability of the intermolecular MFs aggregates in water that strongly penalizes the flavonoid's interaction with the lipid polar heads. However, salts can influence MF′s liposomal penetration, even if they are not able to promote completely its absorption inside the bilayer. For both compounds, the increase of penetration is more marked in presence of magnesium chloride, whilst calcium chloride showed the opposite effect.
The Longitudinal Association Between Early Childhood Obesity and Fathers’ Involvement in Caregiving and Decision‐Making
Authors: Wong Michelle S. , Jones‐Smith Jessica C. , Colantuoni Elizabeth , Thorpe Roland J. , Bleich Sara N. , Chan Kitty S.
Published: June 2017

Objective

Fathers have increased their involvement in child caregiving; however, their changing role in childhood obesity is understudied. This study assessed the longitudinal association between changes in obesity among children aged 2 to 4 years and changes in fathers' involvement with raising children.

Methods

Longitudinal data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Birth Cohort were used to conduct child fixed‐effects linear and logistic regression analyses to assess the association between changes in childhood obesity‐related outcomes (sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption, screen time, BMIzscore, overweight/obesity, obesity) and fathers' involvement with raising children (caregiving and influencing child‐related decisions). Fixed‐effects models control for all time‐invariant characteristics. Analyses were controlled for time‐varying confounders, including child age, maternal and paternal employment, and family poverty status.

Results

Children whose fathers increased their frequency of taking children outside and involvement with physical childcare experienced a decrease in their odds of obesity from age 2 to age 4. Obesity‐related outcomes were not associated with fathers' decision‐making influence.

Conclusions

Increases in fathers' involvement with some aspects of caregiving may be associated with lower odds of childhood obesity. Encouraging fathers to increase their involvement with raising children and including fathers in childhood obesity prevention efforts may help reduce obesity risk among young children.
Self‐medication misuse in the Middle East: a systematic literature review
Authors: Khalifeh Malak M. , Moore Nicholas D. , Salameh Pascale R.
Published: June 2017

Regulations usually distinguish between prescription‐only (POM) and over‐the‐counter (OTC) medicines. The former requires medical prescription; the latter are available for SM of common minor or easily treated ailments. However, in the Eastern Mediterranean countries, theoretical prescription medicines can easily be purchased without a prescription, as self‐medication (SM) resulting in potential misuse and unnecessary risk for patients. The magnitude of this activity is uncertain. The aim of this article, therefore, is to undertake a comprehensive review to identify the different types of medicines that can easily be purchased as SM in Middle East and recognized as misused. An extensive review of the published literature (1990–2015) was conducted using Pubmed, web of science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases, for OTC medicine misuse in the Middle East. A total of 72 papers were identified. Medicines involved in misuse included: codeine containing products, topical anesthetics, topical corticosteroids, antimalarial, and antibiotics. Self‐medication misuse of medicines seemed widespread. Individual treatment patterns were not clearly identified. Studies were not standardized, limiting the comparability between studies and the estimation of the scale of misuse. Pharmacists, friends, or parents were found to be the main sources of SMs. Knowledge and attitudes are an important contributing factor in the misuse of these medications. Strategies and interventions to limit misuse were rarely identified in literature. In conclusion, a massive problem involving a range of medicines was found in Middle East. Standardization of studies is a prerequisite to the understanding and prevention of misuse of self‐medication.
Valuing Stakeholder Governance: Property Rights, Community Mobilization, and Firm Value
Authors: Dorobantu Sinziana , Odziemkowska Kate
Published: June 2017

Research summary: While research has shown that good stakeholder relations increase the value of a firm, less is known about how specific types of stakeholder governance affect firm value. We examine the value of one such governance mechanism—community benefits agreements (CBAs) signed by firms and local communities—intended to minimize social conflict that disrupts access to valuable resources. We argue that shareholders evaluate more positivelyCBAs with local communities with strong property rights and histories of institutional action and extra‐institutional mobilization because these communities are more likely to cause costly disruptions and delays for a firm. We evaluate these arguments by analyzing the cumulative abnormal returns associated with the unexpected announcement of 148CBAs signed between mining companies and local indigenous communities in Canada.

Managerial summary: With firms across many industries facing escalating costs associated with social conflict, new tools are emerging to help firms mitigate these risks by seeking the support of the local communities in which they operate. Community benefits agreements (CBAs) are contracts in which a community provides consent for a new investment in return for tangible benefits, such as local hiring and revenue sharing. We argue that althoughCBAs are costly for the firm, they are particularly valuable when communities can cause costly disruptions and delays for a firm. Our study of investor reactions to the announcement of 148CBAs signed between mining companies and local indigenous communities in Canada shows that investors value moreCBAs signed with communities with strong property rights and histories of protest. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multimarket Contact and Rivalry over Knowledge‐based Resources
Authors: Theeke Matt , Lee Hun
Published: June 2017

Research summary: Research shows that multimarket contact (MMC) reduces rivalry involving downstream activities. Yet, studies showing that MMC can increase the threat of imitation suggest a need to better understand how MMC affects upstream rivalry over knowledge‐based resources. In this study, we argue that MMC increases rivalry over knowledge‐based resources since the deterrent threat of retaliation that typically leads to mutual forbearance in downstream activities will not be sufficient to restrain firms from protecting their knowledge from imitation in upstream activities. In support of these arguments we find that MMC increases the likelihood that a firm initiates patent litigation against a rival. This study suggests the relationship between MMC and rivalry may depend on the competitive domain and the type of resources over which firms are competing.

Managerial Summary: How does market overlap or MMC affect rivalry between two competitors? Prior studies have largely found that an increase in market overlap decreases rivalry in less knowledge‐intensive context because of the deterrent threat of retaliation. However, in this paper, we argue that an increase in market overlap may not reduce rivalry in more knowledge‐intensive context because of heterogeneity in capabilities to protect knowledge. We find that a firm is more likely to initiate patent litigation against a rival as market overlap increases. Our findings suggest that the incentive to protect value across multiple product markets may surpass the motivation to cooperate with rivals and that managers should have a more nuanced view of how market overlap with competitors affects rivalry in more knowledge‐intensive contexts. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Repeating a familiar pattern in a new way: The effect of exploitation and exploration on knowledge leverage behaviors in technology acquisitions
Authors: Choi Seungho , McNamara Gerry
Published: June 2017

Research Summary: We identify two types of knowledge leverage behaviors undertaken by acquiring firms: integrated and independent knowledge leverage. We address how the prior exploitation or exploration orientation of acquirers influence these two modes of knowledge leverage behaviors. The degree of exploitation of acquirers promotes integrating their existing knowledge with acquired knowledge in innovative actions. In contrast, the degree of exploration of acquirers increases the likelihood that new innovations will use acquired knowledge without integrating it with their prior knowledge. In addition, the firm's prior acquisition rate moderates the relationship between the acquiring firms’ previous exploitation or exploration orientation and their knowledge leverage mode. The findings of this article suggest that pre‐acquisition innovation capabilities are distinct from but influence the post‐acquisition innovation actions.

Managerial Summary: Firms often undertake acquisitions to gain access to new knowledge, but they can differ dramatically in how they leverage acquired knowledge. We show that the firm's prior innovation patterns drive this choice. Firms that have previously focused on incremental innovations in their internal innovation efforts tend to integrate acquired knowledge with their own prior knowledge. In contrast, firms that have previously pursued bold innovations tend to leverage acquired knowledge alone in new innovations. Thus, we show that firms use acquisitions as a means to extend their internal innovation patterns—firms that have focused on incremental innovations extend that with acquisitions by linking new innovations to their prior knowledge while firms that have pursued bold initiatives use acquired knowledge to move in new technology directions.
Best Practices in Teaching International Students in Higher Education: Issues and Strategies
Authors: Macgregor Alexander , Folinazzo Giacomo
Published: June 2017

Regardless of their level of academic preparedness, international students face distinct challenges that arise from language issues as well as ones of a personal and social nature, all of which can lead to frustration and failure (Bossio & Bylyna, ). This article discusses an online survey carried out in a Canadian college that identified academic and sociocultural issues faced by international students and highlighted current or potential strategies from the input of 229 international students, 343 domestic students, and 125 professors. Findings reveal that counterproductive behavior may obstruct academic achievement and communication, and there is evidence of disagreement about international students’ academic strengths. A disconnect between participants was also found regarding academic expectations. Moreover, findings reveal that English language abilities are not the sole hindrance to academic success. Responses highlight the need for, and list steps toward, a more proactive and continual pedagogical evolution for faculty and postsecondary institutions to enhance the academic experience and success of international students.
Differential Interaction of Myoglobin with Select Fatty Acids of Carbon Chain Lengths C8 to C16
Authors: Jue Thomas , Shih Lifan , Chung Youngran
Published: June 2017

Previous studies have shown that palmitic acid (PAM) and oleic acid (OLE) can bind myoglobin (Mb). How fatty acids (FA) with different carbon chain lengths and sulfate substitution interact with Mb remains uncertain. Indeed, C8:0 and C10:0 fatty acids do not perturb the intensities of the 1H‐NMR MbCN signal intensity at FA:Mb ratios below 2:1. Starting with C12:0, C12:0‐C16:0, FA induce a noticeable spectral change. C12:0 and C14:0 FA affect both the 5‐ and 8‐heme methyl signals, whereas the C16:0 FA perturbs only the 8‐heme methyl signal. All C12:0–C16:0 saturated FA induce upfield shifts in the –CH2 peak of different FA in the presence of Mb. Increasing the apparent solubility with a sulfate group substitution enhances the FA interaction of lauric sulfate (LAU 1‐SO4) but not palmitate sulfate acid (PAM 1‐SO4). The detergent (DET) property of FA has no significant contribution. Common positive, neutral, and negative DET at DET:Mb ratio of 1:1 induce no perturbation of the MbCN spectra. The experiment observations establish a basis to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the FA interaction with Mb.
Effect of areca nut on rabbit oral mucosa: evidence of oral precancerous condition by protein expression and genotoxic analysis
Authors: Das Tapasi , Mahato Basudev , Chaudhuri Keya
Published: June 2017

Background: In humans, areca nut induces oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), a potentially malignant disorder, characterised by the deposition of collagen in the lamina propria. This study aimed to determine whether OSMF‐like characteristics develop in a rabbit model following treatment with areca nut and lime.

Results: The oral epithelial tissue upon treatment with areca nut extract at 6‐day intervals for up to 6 months showed progressive changes in thickness from 3 months onwards, leading to blanching, ulceration, irregular growth and, finally, restricted mouth opening. The protein expression pattern of OSMF‐like tissues of rabbit buccal mucosa was determined by 2‐DE gel and MALDI‐TOF and compared with normal buccal mucosa of the control group of rabbits. Three major proteins, namely tropomyosin beta chain (in the skeletal muscle), actin and collagen alpha‐1(I) chain, have been identified in areca nut‐treated rabbit tissues as compared to control. The genotoxic effect of areca nut was evaluated in the rabbit model by comet assay in the blood. A significant (p < 0.0001) DNA damage in areca nut‐treated rabbits was observed as compared to the control group.

Conclusion: Histological characteristics, comet assay and protein profile show the development of OSMF‐like features in the mucosal tissue of rabbit followed by areca nut treatment. The increased expression of collagen alpha‐1(I) chain in areca nut‐treated rabbit correlated with the progressive development of the OSMF symptoms in the rabbit buccal mucosa, which might serve as a potential biological marker in the pathological development of OSMF.
Experimental study of the pressure loss in aero-engine air-oil separators
Authors: Cordes A. Laura , Pychynski B. Tim , Schwitzke C. Corina , Bauer D. Hans-Jörg , de Carvalho A. Thiago P. , Morvan B. Hervé P.
Published: June 2017

The results of extensive experimental testing of an aero-engine air-oil separator are presented and discussed. The study focuses on the pressure loss of the system. Oil enters the device in the form of dispersed droplets. Subsequently, separation occurs by centrifuging larger droplets towards the outer walls and by film formation at the inner surface of a rotating porous material, namely an open-cell metal foam. The work described here is part of a study led jointly by the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the University of Nottingham (UNott) within a recent EU project.

The goal of the research is to increase the separation efficiency to mitigate oil consumption and emissions, while keeping the pressure loss as low as possible. The aim is to determine the influencing factors on pressure loss and separation efficiency. With this knowledge, a correlation can eventually be derived. Experiments were conducted for three different separator configurations, one without a metal foam and two with metal foams of different pore sizes. For each configuration, a variety of engine-like conditions of air mass flow rate, rotational speed and droplet size was investigated. The experimental results were used to validate and improve the numerical modelling.

Results for the pressure drop and its dependencies on air mass flow rate and the rotational speed were analysed. It is shown that the swirling flow and the dissipation of angular momentum are the most important contributors to the pressure drop, besides the losses due to friction and dissipation caused by the flow passing the metal foam. It was found that the ratio of the rotor speed and the tangential velocity of the fluid is an important parameter to describe the influence of rotation on the pressure loss. Contrary to expectations, the pressure loss is not necessarily increased with a metal foam installed.
When Sterile Processing Goes Down: An Economic Analysis of Alternative Strategies for Supporting the Service
Authors: Mittenzwei Susan E. , Topkoff Jeannie L. , Bessesen Mary T. , Porter Clifford A. , Rai Gurdev S. , Branch-Elliman Westyn
Published: June 2017

Given steam-quality challenges at our facility, the financial impact of options for reopening the sterile processing service unit were explored; duration of closure was the major driver of costs. Other potential negative effects of operating-room shutdowns include injury to facility reputation, loss of staff, loss of reimbursements, and harm to residency programs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:1002–1004
Universality of the energy-containing structures in wall-bounded turbulence
Authors: de Silva Charitha M. , Krug Dominik , Lohse Detlef , Marusic Ivan
Published: June 2017

The scaling behaviour of the longitudinal velocity structure functions $\langle (\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{r}u)^{2p}\rangle ^{1/p}$ (where $2p$ represents the order) is studied for various wall-bounded turbulent flows. It has been known that for very large Reynolds numbers within the logarithmic region, the structure functions can be described by $\langle (\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{r}u)^{2p}\rangle ^{1/p}/U_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}^{2}\approx D_{p}\ln (r/z)+E_{p}$ (where $r$ is the longitudinal distance, $z$ the distance from the wall, $U_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}$ the friction velocity and $D_{p}$, $E_{p}$ are constants) in accordance with Townsend’s attached eddy hypothesis. Here we show that the ratios $D_{p}/D_{1}$ extracted from plots between structure functions – in the spirit of the extended self-similarity hypothesis – have further reaching universality for the energy containing range of scales. Specifically, we confirm that this description is universal across wall-bounded flows with different flow geometries, and also for both the longitudinal and transversal structure functions, where previously the scaling has been either difficult to discern or differences have been reported when examining the direct representation of $\langle (\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{r}u)^{2p}\rangle ^{1/p}$. In addition, we present evidence of this universality at much lower Reynolds numbers, which opens up avenues to examine structure functions that are not readily available from high Reynolds number databases.
OBLIGATION BLACKWELL GAMES AND P-AUTOMATA
Authors: CHATTERJEE KRISHNENDU , PITERMAN NIR
Published: June 2017

We generalize winning conditions in two-player games by adding a structural acceptance condition called obligations. Obligations are orthogonal to the linear winning conditions that define whether a play is winning. Obligations are a declaration that player 0 can achieve a certain value from a configuration. If the obligation is met, the value of that configuration for player 0 is 1.

We define the value in such games and show that obligation games are determined. For Markov chains with Borel objectives and obligations, and finite turn-based stochastic parity games with obligations we give an alternative and simpler characterization of the value function. Based on this simpler definition we show that the decision problem of winning finite turn-based stochastic parity games with obligations is in NP∩co-NP. We also show that obligation games provide a game framework for reasoning about p-automata.
WEAK REFLECTION PRINCIPLE, SATURATION OF THE NONSTATIONARY IDEAL ONω1AND DIAMONDS
Authors: TORRES-PÉREZ VÍCTOR
Published: June 2017

We prove that WRP and saturation of the ideal NSω1together imply$\left\{ {a \in [\lambda ]^{\omega _1 } :{\text{cof}}\left( {{\text{sup}}\left( a \right)} \right) = \omega _1 } \right\}$, for every cardinalλwith cof(λ)≥ω2.
Slanted beats, enchanted communities: Pavement's early phrase rhythm as indie narrative
Authors: Heetderks David
Published: June 2017

Previous studies of indie music from the 1980s and 1990s have noted that it uses a number of stylistic markers – involving production values, singing style instrumentation and lyrical themes – to convey difference from a perceived mainstream. However, the ideal of difference also influences other aspects of songwriting. As a case study, this article examines early songs by the highly regarded indie band Pavement in which irregularity in phrasing and hypermeter supports a narrative of differentiation. Recurring strategies for creating irregularity include thwarting expected closure at the ends of phrases, using the sounds of words to project conflicting cues for grouping boundaries and creating highly irregular hypermetric lengths. These metric and phrasing devices, when heard in the context of songs, often have vivid narrative or expressive implications.
Liana density declined and basal area increased over 12 y in a subtropical montane forest in Argentina
Authors: Ceballos Sergio Javier , Malizia Agustina
Published: June 2017

Changes in density and basal area of lianas ≥2 cm diameter were monitored in two 1-ha permanent plots in a subtropical montane mature forest of north-western Argentina. Liana stems were identified and measured at 130 cm from the main rooting point in two censuses conducted in 2003 and 2015. Between censuses, the density of liana stems decreased 13.3%, while basal area increased 11.5%. Density and basal area decreased mainly among lianas of 2–3 cm diameter, but increased in lianas ≥4 cm diameter.Quechualia fulta(Asteraceae),Serjania meridionalis(Sapindaceae) andChamissoa altissima(Amaranthaceae) suffered large reductions in stem density and basal area. Dissimilar responses of density and basal area of lianas might be a consequence of the suppression of anthropogenic disturbances (e.g. livestock browsing) and the decrease of treefall gap frequency in the studied forest in recent decades. Light-demanding liana species decreased and shade-tolerant species increased possibly in response to the decline in the light availability associated with forest recovery from past disturbance. Lianas increased in basal area to a lesser extent compared with reports from several tropical and subtropical forests where lianas are increasing dramatically.
CONTEXTUAL WORD LEARNING DURING READING IN A SECOND LANGUAGE
Authors: Elgort Irina , Brysbaert Marc , Stevens Michaël , Van Assche Eva
Published: June 2017

Reading affords opportunities for L2 vocabulary acquisition. Empirical research into the pace and trajectory of this acquisition has both theoretical and applied value. Charting the development of different aspects of word knowledge can verify and inform theoretical frameworks of word learning and reading comprehension. It can also inform practical decisions about using L2 readings in academic study. Monitoring readers’ eye movements provides real-time data on word learning, under the conditions that closely approximate adult L2 vocabulary acquisition from reading. In this study, Dutch-speaking university students read an English expository text, while their eye movements were recorded. Of interest were patterns of change in the eye movements on the target low-frequency words that occurred multiple times in the text, and whether differences in the processing of target and control (known) words decreased overtime. Target word reading outside of the familiar text was examined in a posttest using semantically neutral sentences. The findings show that orthographic processing develops relatively quickly and reliably. However, online retrieval of meaning remains insufficient for fluent word-to-text integration even after multiple contextual encounters.
Why Suicide? The Analysis of Motives for Self-Harm
Authors: Abbas Mohammed J. , Mohanna Mostafa A. , Diab Tarig A. , Chikoore Millicent , Wang Michael
Published: June 2017

Background: There is a gap in understanding the meaning and motives behind suicidal behaviour. Using the Ideal Type methodology, Jean Baechler systematically examined the internal logic of suicidal and self-harming behaviours. He developed a typology of eleven typical meanings/motives: Flight, Grief, Self-punishment, Vengeance, Crime, Blackmail, Appeal, Sacrifice, Transfiguration, Ordeal and Game.Aims:To develop and validate a standardized instrument to measure the motives/meanings of suicidal and self-harming behaviours, using Baechler's typology.Method: We developed a self-fill Likert questionnaire (Ideal Typical Meaning Questionnaire, ITMQ) covering ten of Baechler's eleven types. The questionnaire was completed by 147 patients within four weeks of attempting suicide or self-harm. The Death Attitude Profile-Revised (DAP-R) questionnaire was used to examine the concurrent validity of the Flight and the Transfiguration types and to explore the association between suicidal/self-harming motives and views about death.Results:The final 25-item ITMQ has an eight-factor structure (Appeal/Blackmail, Ordeal/Game, Vengeance, Self-punishment, Sacrifice, Flight, Grief and Transfiguration) supporting Baechler's theory. The types have adequate reliability. Correlations with the DAP-R gave some support for the concurrent validity of the Flight and Transfiguration types.Conclusions: The ITMQ is a measure of suicidal and self-harming motives/meanings based on a sound conceptual framework and could significantly contribute to the understanding of suicidal and self-harming behaviour in research and clinical settings.
The influence of overall treatment time to the efficiency of chemo-radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Tharavichitkul Ekkasit , Rugpong Panupat , Chawapun Nisa , Galalae Razvan M.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aims to clarify the influence of overall treatment time (OTT) on the efficiency of combined chemo-radiotherapy in cervical cancer.

Material and methods

This retrospective study enrolled 122 cervical cancer patients who had squamous cell carcinoma and had undergone definitive chemo-radiotherapy from 2009 to 2013. All patients received whole pelvic radiotherapy (WPRT) with the dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions (with central shielding after 44 Gy) plus intracavitary brachytherapy with the dose of 28 Gy in four fractions. During WPRT, all patients received concurrent chemotherapy with weekly platinum-based regimen. The data of patient characteristics, OTT, treatment results and toxicities were collected and evaluated.

Results

The mean follow-up time was 36 months. The mean age of patients was 52 years old; 68% of patients were stage IIB related to International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics staging. Pelvic control (PC), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates did not differ significantly in the data-derived cut points of 55·8 and 53 days. No statistically significant difference in treatment results between the two groups of OTT<49 and OTT≥62 days was observed.

Conclusions

In our data-derived cut point, OTT did not influence to PC, DMFS, DFS and OS. The influence of OTT on treatment results may be found in longer periods.
How to measure informal institutions
Authors: VOIGT STEFAN
Published: June 2017

There have been repeated claims that informal institutions play an important or even crucial role in economic development. Yet measuring informal institutions entails serious challenges. This paper identifies the difficulties in measuring informal institutions, critically discusses some attempts hitherto taken and encourages the more intensive use of experiments to measure them.
Chemotherapeutic xCT inhibitors sorafenib and erastin unraveled with the synaptic optogenetic function analysis tool
Authors: Dahlmanns Marc , Yakubov Eduard , Chen Daishi , Sehm Tina , Rauh Manfred , Savaskan Nicolai , Wrosch Jana Katharina
Published: June 2017

In the search for new potential chemotherapeutics, the compounds’ toxicity to healthy cells is an important factor. The brain with its functional units, the neurons, is especially endangered during the radio- and chemotherapeutic treatment of brain tumors. The effect of the potential compounds not only on neuronal survival but also neuronal function needs to be taken into account. Therefore, in this study we aimed to comprehend the biological effects of chemotherapeutic xCT inhibition on healthy neuronal cells with our synaptic optogenetic function analysis tool (SOFA). We combined common approaches, such as investigation of morphological markers, neuronal function and cell metabolism. The glutamate-cystine exchanger xCT (SLC7A11, system Xc−) is the main glutamate exporter in malignant brain tumors and as such a relevant drug target for treating deadly glioblastomas (WHO grades III and IV). Recently, two small molecules termed sorafenib (Nexavar) and erastin have been found to efficiently block xCT function. We investigated neuronal morphology, metabolic secretome profiles, synaptic function and cell metabolism of primary hippocampal cultures (containing neurons and glial cells) treated with sorafenib and erastin in clinically relevant concentrations. We found that sorafenib severely damaged neurons already after 24 h of treatment. Noteworthy, also at a lower concentration, where no morphological damage or metabolic disturbance was monitored, sorafenib still interfered with synaptic and metabolic homeostasis. In contrast, erastin-treated neurons displayed mostly inconspicuous morphology and metabolic rates. Key parameters of proper neuronal function, such as synaptic vesicle pool sizes, were however disrupted following erastin application. In conclusion, our data revealed that while sorafenib and erastin effectively inhibited xCT function they also interfered with essential neuronal (synaptic) function. These findings highlight the particular importance of investigating the effects of potential neurooncological and general cancer chemotherapeutics also on healthy neuronal cells and their function as revealed by the SOFA tool.
A 3D-printed platform for modular neuromuscular motor units
Authors: Cvetkovic Caroline , Rich Max H. , Raman Ritu , Kong Hyunjoon , Bashir Rashid
Published: June 2017

A complex and functional living cellular system requires the interaction of one or more cell types to perform specific tasks, such as sensing, processing, or force production. Modular and flexible platforms for fabrication of such multi-cellular modules and their characterization have been lacking. Here, we present a modular cellular system, made up of multi-layered tissue rings containing integrated skeletal muscle and motor neurons (MNs) embedded in an extracellular matrix. The MNs were differentiated from mouse embryonic stem cells through the formation of embryoid bodies (EBs), which are spherical aggregations of cells grown in a suspension culture. The EBs were integrated into a tissue ring with skeletal muscle, which was differentiated in parallel, to create a co-culture amenable to both cell types. The multi-layered rings were then sequentially placed on a stationary three-dimensional-printed hydrogel structure resembling an anatomical muscle–tendon–bone organization. We demonstrate that the site-specific innervation of a group of muscle fibers in the multi-layered tissue rings allows for muscle contraction via chemical stimulation of MNs with glutamate, a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian nervous system, with the frequency of contraction increasing with glutamate concentration. The addition of tubocurarine chloride (a nicotinic receptor antagonist) halted the contractions, indicating that muscle contraction was MN induced. With a bio-fabricated system permitting controllable mechanical and geometric attributes in a range of length scales, our novel engineered cellular system can be utilized for easier integration of other modular “building blocks” in living cellular and biological machines.