bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gendered Leadership Networks in the NCAA: Analyzing Affiliation Networks of Senior Woman Administrators and Athletic Directors
Authors: Katz Matthew , Walker Nefertiti A. , Hindman Lauren C.
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study is to examine and compare the informal networks of both senior woman administrators (SWAs) and athletic directors (ADs) within National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I institutions. Drawing on extant literature citing the underrepresentation of women in sport leadership positions, we incorporate a network approach to build and analyze affiliation networks of SWAs and ADs. Guided by the framework of Leadership in Networks, we argue that the social structures within which ADs and SWAs operate impact opportunities for leader emergence and leadership outcomes. By comparing the AD and SWA affiliation networks, we illustrate the differences in informal networks among men and women leaders in sport, highlighting how informal networks may contribute to the lack of women in sport leadership positions. Previous scholars have long cited an “old boys’ club” as a barrier to women achieving leadership positions, but we argue these studies have largely relied on dispositional evidence rather than methodological and analytical strategies designed specifically to examine relationships and the corresponding network structures. Our results indicate that the SWA network is far less cohesive than the AD networks, and the few women in the AD networks are largely located outside the center of the affiliation networks. Implications regarding the impact of informal networks on the underrepresented nature of women in leadership positions are discussed.
Submesoscale-selective compensation of fronts in a salinity-stratified ocean
Authors: Spiro Jaeger Gualtiero , Mahadevan Amala
Published: March 2018

Salinity fronts in the ocean mixed layer stand out as cold filaments in winter due to restratification rather than upwelling.
A commensal strain of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
protects against skin neoplasia
Authors: Nakatsuji Teruaki , Chen Tiffany H. , Butcher Anna M. , Trzoss Lynnie L. , Nam Sang-Jip , Shirakawa Karina T. , Zhou Wei , Oh Julia , Otto Michael , Fenical William , Gallo Richard L.
Published: March 2018

Bacteria within the skin microbiome of some individuals produce an antimetabolite that inhibits tumor growth.
Asia's hunger for sand takes toll on ecology
Authors: Larson Christina
Published: March 2018

Scientists link species' declines to the mining of construction-grade sand.
Surveillance of Circulating Bordetella pertussis Strains in Europe during 1998 to 2015
Authors: Barkoff Alex-Mikael , Mertsola Jussi , Pierard Denis , Dalby Tine , Hoegh Silje Vermedal , Guillot Sophie , Stefanelli Paola , van Gent Marjolein , Berbers Guy , Vestrheim Didrik F. , Greve-Isdahl Margrethe , Wehlin Lena , Ljungman Margaretha , Fry Norman K. , Markey Kevin , Auranen Kari , He Qiushui
Published: March 2018

One reason for increased pertussis incidence is the adaptation of
Bordetella pertussis
to vaccine-induced immunity by modulating its genomic structure. This study, EUpert IV, includes 265 isolates collected from nine European countries during 2012 to 2015 (
n
= 265) and compares the results to previous EUpert I to III studies (1998 to 2009). The analyses included genotyping, serotyping, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), and multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA). Genotyping results showed only small variations among the common virulence genes of
B. pertussis
. The frequencies of serotypes Fim2 and Fim3 varied among the four collections. Genomic analyses showed that MLVA type 27 increased to 80% between the periods of 1998 to 2001 and 2012 to 2015. Two PFGE profiles, BpSR3 (29.4%) and BpSR10 (27.2%), constituted more than 50% of the circulating isolates in the present collection. Our study indicates that the European
B. pertussis
population is changing and became more homogenous after the introduction of acellular pertussis vaccines.
Acupuncture for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tang Shujie , Mo Zhuomao , Zhang Renwen
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for LDH. A meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 and the evidence level was assessed using GRADE methodology.

Results

Thirty RCTs involving 3503 participants were included in the study. Meta-analysis showed that acupuncture had a higher total effective rate than lumbar traction (RR=1.1, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.15; p<0.001), ibuprofen (RR=1.24, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.48; p=0.02), diclofenac sodium (RR=1.44, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.67; p<0.001) and meloxicam (RR=1.16, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.31; p=0.01). Acupuncture was also better than lumbar traction (SMD −1.33, 95% CI −1.82 to −0.84; p<0.001) and diclofenac sodium (SMD −1.36, 95% CI −2.59 to −0.13; p=0.03) in terms of visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and better than lumbar traction (SMD 0.96, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.45; p=0.0001) with respect to Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores. In addition, the total effective rate in five individual trials was greater for acupuncture than for mannitol plus dexamethasone and mecobalamin, ibuprofen plus fugui gutong capsule, loxoprofen, mannitol plus dexamethasone and huoxue zhitong decoction, respectively. Additionally, two individual trials showed a superior effect of acupuncture in VAS scores comparedwith ibuprofen or mannitol plus dexamethasone, respectively.

Conclusions

Acupuncture showed a more favourable effect in the treatment of LDH than lumbar traction, ibuprofen, diclofenac sodium, meloxicam, mannitol plus dexamethasone and mecobalamin, fugui gutong capsule plus ibuprofen, mannitol plus dexamethasone, loxoprofen and huoxue zhitong decoction. However, further rigorously designed, large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm these findings.
Cognitive outcome in childhood of birth weight discordant monochorionic twins: the long-term effects of fetal growth restriction
Authors: Swamy Ravi Shankar , McConachie Helen , Ng Jane , Rankin Judith , Korada Murthy , Sturgiss Stephen , Embleton Nicholas D
Published: March 2018

Aim

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with poorer outcomes in later life. We used a monochorionic twin model with IUGR in one twin to determine its impact on growth and neurocognitive outcomes.

Methods

Monochorionic twins with ≥20% birth weight discordance born in the north of England were eligible. Cognitive function was assessed using the British Ability Scales. The Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to identify behavioural problems. Auxological measurements were collected. Generalised estimating equations were used to determine the effects of birth weight on cognition.

Results

Fifty-one monochorionic twin pairs were assessed at a mean age of 6.3 years. Mean birth weight difference was 664 g at a mean gestation of 34.7 weeks. The lighter twin had a General Conceptual Ability (GCA) score that was three points lower (TwinL −105.4 vs TwinH −108.4, 95% CI −0.9 to −5.0), and there was a significant positive association (B 0.59) of within-pair birth weight differences and GCA scores. Mathematics and memory skills showed the largest differences. The lighter twin at school age was shorter (mean difference 2.1 cm±0.7) and lighter (mean difference 1.9 kg±0.6). Equal numbers of lighter and heavier twins were reported to have behavioural issues.

Conclusions

In a monochorionic twin cohort, fetal growth restriction results in lower neurocognitive scores in early childhood, and there remain significant differences in size. Longer term follow-up will be required to determine whether growth or cognitive differences persist in later child or adulthood, and whether there are any associated longer term metabolic sequelae.
Geolocalisation of athletes for out-of-competition drug testing: ethical considerations. Position statement by the WADA Ethics Panel
Authors: Borry Pascal , Caulfield Timothy , Estivill Xavier , Loland Sigmund , McNamee Michael , Knoppers Bartha Maria
Published: March 2018

Through the widespread availability of location-identifying devices, geolocalisation could potentially be used to place athletes during out-of-competition testing. In light of this debate, the WADA Ethics Panel formulated the following questions: (1) should WADA and/or other sponsors consider funding such geolocalisation research projects?, (2) if successful, could they be proposed to athletes as a complementary device to Anti-Doping Administration and Management System to help geolocalisation and reduce the risk of missed tests? and (3) should such devices be offered on a voluntary basis, or is it conceivable that they would be made mandatory for all athletes in registered testing pools? In this position paper, the WADA Ethics Panel concludes that the use of geolocalisation could be useful in a research setting with the goal of understanding associations between genotype, phenotype and environment; however, it recognises that the use of geolocalisation as part of or as replacement of whereabouts rules is replete with ethical concerns. While benefits remain largely hypothetical and minimal, the potential invasion of privacy and the data security threats are real. Considering the impact on privacy, data security issues, the societal ramifications of offering such services and various pragmatic considerations, the WADA Ethics Panel concludes that at this time, the use of geolocalisation should neither be mandated as a tool for disclosing whereabouts nor implemented on a voluntary basis.
Implementation of the 2017 Berlin Concussion in Sport Group Consensus Statement in contact and collision sports: a joint position statement from 11 national and international sports organisations
Authors: Patricios Jon S , Ardern Clare L , Hislop Michael David , Aubry Mark , Bloomfield Paul , Broderick Carolyn , Clifton Patrick , Echemendia Ruben J , Ellenbogen Richard G , Falvey Éanna Cian , Fuller Gordon Ward , Grand Julie , Hack Dallas , Harcourt Peter Rex , Hughes David , McGuirk Nathan , Meeuwisse Willem , Miller Jeffrey , Parsons John T , Richiger Simona , Sills Allen , Moran Kevin B , Shute Jenny , Raftery Martin
Published: March 2018

The 2017 Berlin Concussion in Sport Group Consensus Statement provides a global summary of best practice in concussion prevention, diagnosis and management, underpinned by systematic reviews and expert consensus. Due to their different settings and rules, individual sports need to adapt concussion guidelines according to their specific regulatory environment. At the same time, consistent application of the Berlin Consensus Statement’s themes across sporting codes is likely to facilitate superior and uniform diagnosis and management, improve concussion education and highlight collaborative research opportunities. This document summarises the approaches discussed by medical representatives from the governing bodies of 10 different contact and collision sports in Dublin, Ireland in July 2017. Those sports are: American football, Australian football, basketball, cricket, equestrian sports, football/soccer, ice hockey, rugby league, rugby union and skiing. This document had been endorsed by 11 sport governing bodies/national federations at the time of being published.
Evaluation of human coronary vasodilator function predicts future coronary atheroma progression
Authors: Sidharta Samuel L , Baillie Timothy J , Howell Stuart , Nicholls Stephen J , Montarello Natalie , Honda Satoshi , Shishikura Daisuke , Delacroix Sinny , Kim Susan , Beltrame John F , Psaltis Peter J , Worthley Stephen G , Worthley Matthew I
Published: March 2018

Objective

Coronary vasodilator function and atherosclerotic plaque progression have both been shown to be associated with adverse cardiovascular events. However, the relationship between these factors and the lipid burden of coronary plaque remains unknown. These experiments focus on investigating the relationship between impaired coronary vasodilator function (endothelium dependent (salbutamol) and endothelium independent (glyceryl trinitrate)) and the natural history of atheroma plaque progression and lipid burden using dual modality intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) imaging.

Methods

33 patients with stable chest pain or acute coronary syndrome underwent serial assessment of coronary vasodilator function and intracoronary plaque IVUS and NIRS imaging. Coronary segmental macrovascular response (% change segmental lumen volume (ΔSLV)), plaque burden (per cent atheroma volume (PAV)), lipid core (lipid-rich plaque (LRP) and lipid core burden index (LCBI)) were measured at baseline and after an interval of 12–18 months (n=520 segments).

Results

Lipid-negative coronary segments which develop into LRP over the study time period demonstrated impaired endothelial-dependent function (−0.24±2.96 vs 5.60±1.47%, P=0.04) and endothelial-independent function (13.91±4.45 vs 21.19±3.19%, P=0.036), at baseline. By multivariate analysis, endothelial-dependent function predicted ∆LCBI (β coefficient: −3.03, 95% CI (−5.81 to −0.25), P=0.033) whereas endothelial-independent function predicted ∆PAV (β coefficient: 0.07, 95% CI (0.04 to 0.10), P<0.0001).

Conclusions

Epicardial coronary vasodilator function is a determinant of future atheroma progression and composition irrespective of the nature of clinical presentation.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12612000594820, Post-results.
Short-term changes in daily movement behaviour influence salivary C-reactive protein in healthy women
Authors: Truba Taura N. , Doan Jon , Currie Cheryl L. , Copeland Jennifer L.
Published: March 2018

This study assessed the effect of changing daily movement behaviour on C-reactive protein (CRP) measured in saliva. Two groups of women either reduced daily movement or increased physical activity for 10 days. Salivary CRP increased by 31% in the sedentary group (0.378 ± 0.596 to 0.487 ± 0.793 μg·L−1) and decreased by 22% in the active group (0.414 ± 0.640 to 0.259 ± 0.284 μg·L−1). These results suggest short-term changes in daily movement behaviour can affect salivary CRP, a marker of systemic inflammation.
Static fatigue of sand particles
Authors: Liu Su , Wang Jianfeng
Published: March 2018

Static fatigue is of particular concern when studying the time-dependent mechanical behavior of brittle geomaterials. In this regard, the time-dependent strength behavior of individual particles is essential for understanding the creep behavior of sand. In this study, short-term strength tests and static fatigue tests of individual sand particles subjected to a uniaxial compressive load were carried out using a mini-loading apparatus and modified oedometer frames, respectively. The sand particles in the static fatigue test were loaded in an incremental manner, and the load at each stress level was maintained for a fixed period of time. Scatter of the strength of sand particles was described using the Weibull distribution. Long-term strength from the static fatigue test of individual sand particles is found to be less than the short-term strength.
Two-tier data fusion method for bridge condition assessment
Authors: Ahmed Marwa , Moselhi Osama , Bhowmick Anjan
Published: March 2018

Fusing collected inspection data provides comprehensive and relatively more accurate diagnostics of defects and accordingly more accurate condition assessment of structures. This paper presents a new two-tier method that utilized data fusion methods for condition assessment of reinforced concrete bridge decks. The method utilizes pixel and feature levels fusion of data collected from multiple nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods such as ground penetrating radar, impact echo, half-cell potential, and electrical resistivity. Data and measurements of NDE methods are extracted from the Iowa Highway research board project 2011 report for three case studies. It is observed from the three cases that each level of data fusion has its unique advantage. The power of pixel level fusion lies in its ability to provide an overview of bridge deck deterioration in one map as it appears in the fused image. On the other hand, feature fusion works better when only specific types of defects such as corrosion, delamination, and deterioration captured from inspection carried out by each of technologies referred to above. The proposed method is tested against filed inspection methods and core sample results described in the three case studies. The main findings of this research recommend utilizing data fusion in two levels as a new method to facilitate and enhance the confidence and capabilities of inspectors in interpretation of the NDE test results.
Personality and perfectionism as predictors of life satisfaction: The unique contribution of having high standards for others
Authors: Fowler Samantha A. , Davis Leanne L. , Both Lilly E. , Best Lisa A.
Published: March 2018

Life satisfaction is directly related to positive mental and physical health outcomes. As such, the promotion of life satisfaction is desirable. To facilitate this process, it is beneficial to identify significant predictors of life satisfaction. Although previous research has established that personality is a reliable predictor of life satisfaction, personality is not easily modifiable. In contrast, perfectionism can be effectively adapted with appropriate therapy, leading to decreases in mental illness symptomology. The present study sought to determine if different aspects of perfectionism predicted life satisfaction beyond the influence of personality. A total of 448 online participants (75% female) completed questionnaires assessing life satisfaction, perfectionism, and personality. Results of a hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that lower scores on neuroticism (being emotionally stable; p < 0.001) and higher scores on extraversion ( p < 0.001) and conscientiousness ( p = 0.003) significantly predicted life satisfaction. In addition, one aspect of perfectionism, high standards for others ( p = 0.001), positively predicted life satisfaction beyond the influence of personality. We suggest that encouraging individuals to hold others to high standards is an effective strategy that may foster shared goals and achievements, which in turn may improve overall life satisfaction.
Perturbation theory for arbitrary coupling strength?
Authors: Mahapatra Bimal P. , Pradhan Noubihary
Published: March 2018

We present a new formulation of perturbation theory for quantum systems, designated here as: “mean field perturbation theory” (MFPT), which is free from power-series-expansion in any physical parameter, including the coupling strength. Its application is thereby extended to deal with interactions of arbitrary strength and to compute system-properties having non-analytic dependence on the coupling, thus overcoming the primary limitations of the “standard formulation of perturbation theory” (SFPT). MFPT is defined by developing perturbation about a chosen input Hamiltonian, which is exactly solvable but which acquires the nonlinearity and the analytic structure (in the coupling strength) of the original interaction through a self-consistent, feedback mechanism. We demonstrate Borel-summability of MFPT for the case of the quartic- and sextic-anharmonic oscillators and the quartic double-well oscillator (QDWO) by obtaining uniformly accurate results for the ground state of the above systems for arbitrary physical values of the coupling strength. The results obtained for the QDWO may be of particular significance since “renormalon”-free, unambiguous results are achieved for its spectrum in contrast to the well-known failure of SFPT in this case.
First-principles study on electron transport properties of carbon–silicon mixed chains
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhou Qinghua , Liang Yan , Liu Wenhua , Wang Tao , Wan Haiqing
Published: March 2018

In this paper, the transport properties of carbon–silicon mixed chains are studied by using the first-principles. We studied five atomic chain models. In these studies, we found that the equilibrium conductances of atomic chains appear to oscillate, the maximum conductance and the minimum conductance are more than twice the difference. Their I–V curves are linear and show the behavior of metal resistance, M5 system and M2 system current ratio is the largest in 0.9 V, which is 3.3, showing a good molecular switch behavior. In the case of bias, while the bias voltage increases, the transmission peaks move from the Fermi level. The resonance transmission peak height is reduced near the Fermi level. In the higher energy range, a large resonance transmission peak reappears, there is still no energy cut-off range.
Neutron anomalous magnetic moment in dense magnetized systems
Authors: Rezaei Zeinab
Published: March 2018

In this work, we calculate the neutron anomalous magnetic moment (AMM) supposing that this value can depend on the density and magnetic field of the system. We employ the lowest-order constraint variation (LOCV) method and [Formula: see text] nuclear potential to calculate the medium dependency of the neutron AMM. It is confirmed that the neutron AMM increases by increasing the density, while it decreases as the magnetic field grows. The energy and equation of state for the system have also been investigated.
EVALUATING THE THEORY OF BONE MECHANOREGULATION IN THE PHYSIOLOGICAL LOADING SCENARIO
Authors: LU YONGTAO , ZHAO WENYING , LI JUNYAN , WU CHENGWEI
Published: March 2018

In this paper, the theory of bone mechanoregulation under physiological loading was evaluated. The entire right tibiae of wild type (WT, [Formula: see text]) and parathyroid hormone (PTH, [Formula: see text]) treated C57BL/6J female mice were scanned using an in vivo [Formula: see text]CT imaging system at 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22 weeks. The PTH intervention started from week 18 until week 22. Subject-specific finite element (FE) models were created from the [Formula: see text]CT images and physiological loading condition was defined in the FE models. The rates of changes in bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), and bone tissue density (TMD) were quantified over 40 anatomical compartments across the entire mouse tibia. The resulting values were then correlated to the average 1st principal tensile strain ([Formula: see text]) and the strain energy density (SED) for every compartment at weeks 18, 20, and 22. It was found that: in both groups, [Formula: see text] had a minimal effect on the variability of [Formula: see text]BMC ([Formula: see text]); SED had a significant effect on the variability of [Formula: see text]BMC only in the WT group ([Formula: see text]); [Formula: see text] had a significant effect on the variability of [Formula: see text]BMD only in the PTH group ([Formula: see text]); SED had a significant effect on the variability of [Formula: see text]BMD in both groups ([Formula: see text]); neither SED nor [Formula: see text] had a significant effect on the variability of [Formula: see text]TMD ([Formula: see text]). These results are the first to reveal the mechanism of bone mechanoregulation in the physiological loading scenario.
GAIT DIVISION OF HEALTHY AND SPINAL CORD–INJUREDRHESUS MONKEYSBY ONE-DIMENSIONAL TOE SIGNALS
Authors: ZHAO W. , SONG W. , RAO J. S. , WEI R. H. , LI L. F. , JI R. , ZHAO C. , YANG Z. Y. , LI X. G.
Published: March 2018

Spinal cord injury (SCI) may cause disastrous damage to human locomotion and ultimately make patients suffer from gait anomaly. In the extensive SCI research, the locomotion function serves as a vital standard not only for revealing the underlying SCI mechanism but also for evaluating the clinical therapy. Gait division is the basis of gait analysis. Calculation of gait parameters is available for locomotion function evaluation only when gait cycles are accurately divided. Based on the characteristics of stride height, which is defined as the real-time height of toes vertical to the running direction of a treadmill belt, this study presented three automatic gait division methods, divided the gait cycles for healthy and spinal cord-injured rhesus monkeys, established the evaluation standards, and made comparison of these three methods. For the healthy, injured and mixed groups, the overall accuracies of these three methods were respectively 0.871[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.223, 0.570[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.372, and 0.720[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.339 (method 1); 0.658[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.245, 0.737[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.206, and 0.698[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.228 (method 2); 0.966[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.060, 0.759[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.343, and 0.863[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]0.265 (method 3). The results show that the stride height characteristics combined with the filter technique may help realize the adequate gait division.
INFLUENCE OF THE AUDITORY SYSTEM ON PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION IN THE EAR CANAL
Authors: GARCIA-GONZALEZ A. , CASTRO-EGLER C. , GONZALEZ-HERRERA A.
Published: March 2018

The pressure gain distribution along the ear canal is strongly dependent on boundary conditions, and, in normal conditions, the ear canal produces a 0–20-dB pressure gain close to the tympanic membrane in the 0.1–20[Formula: see text]kHz range. Additionally, the pressure gain distribution along the ear canal at high frequencies (over the second resonance of the ear canal at 8–9[Formula: see text]kHz) depends strongly on axis position; therefore, the middle ear transfer functions based on ear canal pressure are also strongly dependent on the measuring point.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the mechanical influence of the tympanic cavity, ossicular chain and tympanic membrane connections on the pressure in the ear canal in the frequency range of 0.1–20[Formula: see text]kHz when a pressure source is applied to the ear canal entrance.

Methods: We have developed numerical simulations for seven different models using the finite element method (FEM). Starting with an external ear canal finite element model, additional elements are coupled or removed to evaluate their contributions. We modeled and simulated the tympanic membrane, ossicular chain, tympanic cavity and a simplified cochlea in seven different combinations.

Results: The pressure distribution along the external ear canal is obtained and represented in the 0.1–20[Formula: see text]kHz range for the seven model configurations.
VARIETIES OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIPS AND STRUCTURAL EFFECTS IN THE WORLD TRADE NETWORK
Authors: PAN ZHENGQI
Published: March 2018

To what extent does joint membership in intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) matter for bilateral trade? How and under what conditions do the various types of IGOs — economic, socio-cultural and general purpose — influence bilateral trade between their members? How do complex interdependencies in world trade matter? Existing research tends to examine aggregate joint IGO memberships and has done little to analyze how specific types of IGO membership matter in trade. Using a detailed IGO dataset and a novel network analysis approach called the temporal exponential random graph model, I assess the importance of three main IGO types — economic, socio-cultural and general purpose — in helping members to establish major trading ties. The results provide support for general purpose and socio-cultural IGOs and point to the importance of network phenomena such as popularity, activity and transitivity effects. Moreover, joint economic IGO memberships exhibit slightly more complex relations with bilateral trade. A robustness test reveals that preferential trade agreements are significant in fostering trade, while the World Trade Organization and other economic IGOs such as development banks are not. This paper presents a nuanced way of analyzing IGOs and provides the impetus for the study of complex interdependencies in international trade.
On quantum codes via cyclic codes of arbitrary length over 𝔽4 + u𝔽4
Authors: Sharma Amit , Bandi Ramakrishna , Bhaintwal Maheshanand
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we study cyclic codes over [Formula: see text]. A necessary and sufficient condition for a cyclic code over [Formula: see text] to contain its dual is determined. The odd and even length cases are discussed separately to obtain above condition. It is shown that Gray image of a cyclic code over [Formula: see text] containing its dual is a linear code over [Formula: see text] which also contains its dual. We have then obtained the parameters of corresponding CSS-quantum codes over [Formula: see text]. By augmentation, we construct codes with dual-containing property from codes of smaller size containing their duals. Through this construction, we have obtained some optimal quantum codes over [Formula: see text]. Some examples have been given to illustrate the results.
On the distance signless Laplacian spectral radius and the distance signless Laplacian energy of graphs
Authors: Alhevaz Abdollah , Baghipur Maryam , Paul Somnath
Published: March 2018

The distance signless Laplacian spectral radius of a connected graph [Formula: see text] is the largest eigenvalue of the distance signless Laplacian matrix of [Formula: see text], defined as [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the distance matrix of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is the diagonal matrix of vertex transmissions of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we determine some bounds on the distance signless Laplacian spectral radius of [Formula: see text] based on some graph invariants, and characterize the extremal graphs. In addition, we define distance signless Laplacian energy, similar to that in [J. Yang, L. You and I. Gutman, Bounds on the distance Laplacian energy of graphs, Kragujevac J. Math. 37 (2013) 245–255] and give some bounds on the distance signless Laplacian energy of graphs.
The Utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT for Monitoring Response and Predicting Prognosis after Glucocorticoids Therapy for Sarcoidosis
Authors: Chen Hengyi , Jin Rongbing , Wang Yubo , Li Li , Li Kunlin , He Yong
Published: March 2018

Sarcoidosis has significant heterogeneity involving multiple organs; treatment of the disease is a significant therapeutic challenge due to the difficulties in accurately monitoring disease activity and estimating prognosis. Fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) plays an important role in assessing the metabolic activity. However, there is not enough evidence about the influence of this method in the clinical management and prognosis prediction for sarcoidosis. This study aims to investigate the clinical utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT for therapeutic evaluation and prognostic prediction in sarcoidosis. We had retrospectively enrolled 23 patients with sarcoidosis assigned to receive systemic glucocorticoids. All patients underwent baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT before initiating therapy and follow-up 18F-FDG PET/CT within 3 months after the therapy. The metabolic and clinical responses were classified. The baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT showed increased uptake in all patients. Based solely on biopsy-proven sites, the sensitivity of 18F-FDG PET/CT was 91.7%, and the sensitivity improved to 100% after excluding skin involvement. In the subsequent follow-up PET scans within 3 months after glucocorticoids therapy, the SUVmax were variously decreased except one; there are significant differences in the clinical remission rates and the relapse rates between patients with a favorable response and cases with no response on follow-up PET scan, the increasing metabolic response was associated with the increase in clinical remission rates and the reduction in recurrence rates. In conclusion, the present study shows that 18F-FDG PET/CT is an effective way to monitor the early therapeutic reaction and is helpful in predicting the long-term prognosis of sarcoidosis.
Patterns and Predictors of Depression Treatment among Older Adults with Parkinson’s Disease and Depression in Ambulatory Care Settings in the United States
Authors: Bhattacharjee Sandipan , Vadiei Nina , Goldstone Lisa , Alrabiah Ziyad , Sherman Scott J.
Published: March 2018

Little is known regarding depression treatment patterns and predictors among older adults with comorbid Parkinson's disease and depression (dPD) in the United States (US). The objective of this study was to assess the patterns and predictors of depression treatment among older adults with dPD in the US. We adopted a cross-sectional study design by pooling multiple-year data (2005–2011) from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) and the outpatient department of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS). The final study sample consisted of visits by older adults with dPD. Depression treatment was defined as antidepressant use with or without psychotherapy. To identify predictors of depression treatment, multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted adjusting for predisposing, enabling, and need factors. Individuals with dPD and polypharmacy were 74% more likely to receive depression treatment (odds ratio = 1.743, 95% CI 1.376–2.209), while dPD subjects with comorbid chronic conditions were 44% less likely (odds ratio = 0.559, 95% CI 0.396–0.790) to receive depression treatment. Approximately six out of ten older adults with PD and depression received depression treatment. Treatment options for dPD are underutilized in routine clinical practice, and further research should explore how overall medical complexity presents a barrier to depression treatment.
Selected Chemical Properties of Soybean Rhizosphere Soil as Influenced by Cropping Systems, Rhizobium Inoculation, and the Supply of Phosphorus and Potassium after Two Consecutive Cropping Seasons
Authors: Nyoki Daniel , Ndakidemi Patrick A.
Published: March 2018

The field experiment was carried out in northern Tanzania to assess the effects of intercropping systems, Rhizobium inoculation, and fertilization with P and K on chemical properties of soybean rhizosphere soil. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot design with 2 × 4 × 7 factorial arrangement replicated thrice. The main plots had two inoculation treatments and the subplots were comprised of four cropping systems which were sole maize, sole soybean, and two intercropping at different soybean spacing (75 × 20 and 75 × 40 cm). The fertilizer levels (kg/ha) control (0 kg/ha); 20 K; 40 K; 26 P; 52 P; 26 P + 20 K; and 52 P + 40 K were assigned to sub-subplots. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Least Significant Difference was used to compare treatment means at p=0.05 significance level. The results indicated that rhizosphere soil chemical properties such as pH, organic carbon (OC), and macro- and micronutrients (N, P, Ca, Mg, and Na and Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn, resp.) were significantly increased in the Rhizobium inoculated soybean over the control. The supply of P and K fertilizers significantly increased the rhizosphere content of macronutrients (P, K, Ca, and Mg) and also they altered the pH and EC of the rhizosphere soil relative to control.
Detection of Delamination in Laminate Wind Turbine Blades Using One‐Dimensional Wavelet Analysis of Modal Responses
Authors: Doliński Łukasz , Krawczuk Marek , Żak Arkadiusz
Published: March 2018

This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of a nondestructive diagnostic technique used to determine the location and size of delamination in laminated coatings of wind turbine blades. This is realized based on results of numerical and experimental investigations obtained by the use of the finite element method (FEM) and laser scanning vibrometry (LSV). The proposed method is based on the one‐dimensional continuous wavelet transform of vibration parameters of a wind turbine blade. The investigations were conducted for a 1 : 10 scaled‐down blade of a 36 m rotor wind turbine. Glass fibres and epoxy resin were used as laminate components. For numerical studies, a simple delamination model was proposed. The results obtained by the authors were used to determine the optimal set of parameters of the continuous wavelet transform. The application of high‐quality LSV for experimental measurements allowed determining the optimal conditions of measuring procedures. At the same time the capabilities and limitations, resulting from the nature of the measurement method, were identified. In order to maximize the effectiveness of the detection method, preliminary signal processing was performed. Beside base wavelets also different waveform families were tested. The results obtained by the authors showed that it is possible to identify and localize even relatively small damage.
Identification of Key Candidate Proteins and Pathways Associated with Temozolomide Resistance in Glioblastoma Based on Subcellular Proteomics and Bioinformatical Analysis
Authors: Yi Guo-zhong , Xiang Wei , Feng Wen-yan , Chen Zi-yang , Li Yao-min , Deng Sheng-ze , Guo Man-lan , Zhao Liang , Sun Xue-gang , He Min-yi , Qi Song-tao , Liu Ya-wei
Published: March 2018

TMZ resistance remains one of the main reasons why treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) fails. In order to investigate the underlying proteins and pathways associated with TMZ resistance, we conducted a cytoplasmic proteome research of U87 cells treated with TMZ for 1 week, followed by differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) screening, KEGG pathway analysis, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and validation of key candidate proteins in TCGA dataset. A total of 161 DEPs including 65 upregulated proteins and 96 downregulated proteins were identified. Upregulated DEPs were mainly related to regulation in actin cytoskeleton, focal adhesion, and phagosome and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways which were consistent with our previous studies. Further, the most significant module consisted of 28 downregulated proteins that were filtered from the PPI network, and 9 proteins (DHX9, HNRNPR, RPL3, HNRNPA3, SF1, DDX5, EIF5B, BTF3, and RPL8) among them were identified as the key candidate proteins, which were significantly associated with prognosis of GBM patients and mainly involved in ribosome and spliceosome pathway. Taking the above into consideration, we firstly identified candidate proteins and pathways associated with TMZ resistance in GBM using proteomics and bioinformatic analysis, and these proteins could be potential biomarkers for prevention or prediction of TMZ resistance in the future.
Effect of Direct Current on Solid-Liquid Interfacial Tension and Wetting Behavior of Ga–In–Sn Alloy Melt on Cu Substrate
Authors: Zhang Limin , Li Ning , Xing Hui , Zhang Rong , Song Kaikai
Published: March 2018

The effect of direct current (DC) on the wetting behavior of Cu substrate by liquid Ga–25In–13Sn alloy at room temperature is investigated using a sessile drop method. It is found that there is a critical value for current intensity, below which the decrease of contact angle with increasing current intensity is approximately linear and above which contact angle tends to a stable value from drop shape. Current polarity is a negligible factor in the observed trend. Additionally, the observed change in contact angles is translated into the corresponding change in solid-liquid interfacial tension using the equation of state for liquid interfacial tensions. The solid-liquid interfacial tension decreases under DC. DC-induced promotion of solute diffusion coefficient is likely to play an important role in determining the wettability and solid-liquid interfacial tension under DC.
Assessing the Feasibility of a Mentored Home-Based Vegetable Gardening Intervention among Breast Cancer Survivors in the Deep South
Authors: Bail JR , Frugé AD , Cases MG , Smith KP , Cantor AB , De Los Santos J , Locher JL , Cohen HJ , Demark-Wahnefried W
Published: March 2018

To assess the feasibility of a mentored home-based vegetable gardening intervention among Breast Cancer Survivors (BCS) residing in the Birmingham, Alabama metropolitan area. Methods: Using a wait-list control design, BCS were randomized to either a year-long vegetable gardening intervention or a wait-list control. Intervention participants were provided with necessary supplies and paired with a Master Gardener from the Cooperative Extension. Master Gardeners mentored participants in planning, planting, and maintaining 3 seasonal gardens over 12 months, conducted monthly home-visits, and checked in bi-weekly via telephone or email. Feasibility assessment criteria consisted of participant accrual, retention, and satisfaction rates of ≥80%. Target participant accrual was 100. Participant satisfaction data were collected after study completion via structured telephone debriefing. Descriptive statistics were conducted using SPSS V24. Results: 82 BCS (Mage = 60 (39–84); Msurvivorship = 5 years (0.5–23); Mco-morbidities = 3.5 (0–12); ≥2 functional limitations = 86.6%; Caucasian = 73.2%; African-American = 26.8%) enrolled (82% accrual). Of these, four did not complete the study (2 refused to be wait-listed due to not wanting to wait to garden, 1 withdrew due to family obligations, and 1 was lost to follow-up), resulting in an retention rate of 95% over a 1-year period. All BCS who completed the intervention (n = 42) rated their Harvest for Health experience as “Good to Excellent”, reported that they would “do it again”, and planned to “continue to garden.” When asked to rate, on a scale of 1–10 (1 = not at all and 10 = very much), the influence of gardening on motivating behavior change, BCS reported that gardening motivated them to… “eat a healthier diet” (M = 8.38; SD = 2.07), “eat more vegetables” (M = 8.43; SD = 2.08), and “be more physically active” (M = 7.5; SD = 2.73). Conclusions: The vegetable gardening intervention proved to be feasible and provided new knowledge about the influence of gardening on motivating behavior change among BCS. Findings suggest that a mentored home-based vegetable gardening may offer an integrative approach to improve diet, vegetable consumption, and physical activity among BCS. Larger, future studies are warranted.
Race, Ethnicity, Socioeconomic Status and Site-specific Risk for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Martinez ME , Tao L , Murphy J , Camargo MC , Oren E , Valasek M , Gomez SL , Gupta S
Published: March 2018

Differences in gastric cancer risk by race/ethnicity have been reported but data on risk by anatomic subsite are lacking. We assessed site-specific differences in gastric cancer risk according to race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Methods: Participants included incident cases of gastric adenocarcinoma age >18 years in the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Program 2000–2014. Primary outcome was risk for incident gastric cancer, overall, and by anatomic subsite (cardia vs. non-cardia). Age-adjusted incidence rates were used to estimate adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Risk was assessed by race/ethnicity and neighborhood socioeconomic status (nSES). Results: We identified 77,881 cases of incident gastric cancer (n = 23,651 cardia; n = 35,825 non-cardia; n = 18,405 other). For all gastric cancers, adjusted IRRs (95% CI) were higher for blacks [1.72 (95% CI: 1.68–1.76)], Hispanics [1.77 (1.73–1.80)], and Asian/Pacific Islanders [2.12 (2.08–2.17)] compared to non-Hispanic whites. Opposite trends in risk for cardia vs. non-cardia cancer by race/ethnicity were observed. Compared to non- Hispanic whites, cardia IRRs (95% CI) were 0.55 (0.52–0.59) for blacks, 0.63 (0.60–0.66) for Hispanics, and 0.59 (0.56–0.62) for Asians/Pacific Islanders. Non-cardia IRRs (95% CI) were 2.78 (2.69–2.87) for blacks, 2.83 (2.75- 2.91) for Hispanics, and 3.86 (3.75–3.97) for Asians/Pacific Islanders relative to non-Hispanic whites. Increasing risk with decreasing nSES was observed for all gastric cancers (p trend < 0.0001), with moderate variation for non- cardia cancer but no substantial variation observed for cardia cancer. Conclusions. Gastric cancer incidence varies substantially by race/ethnicity and nSES, but with markedly different associations by anatomic subsite. Non-cardia cancer risk is higher among minorities than non-Hispanic whites and varies only moderately by nSES; while cardia cancer risk is lower among minorities and does not vary by nSES. Unique opportunities for addressing disparities exist for cardia and non-cardia gastric cancer.
Commercially Available Lifestyle Modification Program Decreases Inflammatory Biomarkers in BRCA1/2+ Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sturgeon KM. , Foo W , Schmitz KH
Published: March 2018

The goal of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the effect of a 12-month commercially available web-based lifestyle program (Precision Nutrition (PN), Inc©) on biomarkers of inflammation, compared to usual care among a national cohort of 35 BRCA1/2+ breast cancer survivors with surgically-induced early menopause. The PN program included access to a PN coach and completion of three daily activities: 1) exercises; 2) completing a nutritional/lifestyle habit, and 3) reading health related material. The exercise component was completed at home or at a local gym, and required 160 min/wk of exercise (3 days/week of progressive resistance exercise, 2 days/week of interval aerobic exercise, and 1 day/week of active recovery aerobic exercise). Blood draws, body composition measurements, and fitness capacity were measured at baseline and follow up. The cohort was middle-aged (46.1 ± 4.0 years of age), white, and well-educated. The intervention group (n = 19) was 74.8% adherent to the program (average of all components: fitness, behavioral, education). At baseline, higher insulin levels were associated with higher TNFα levels (r = 0.38, P = 0.04). Higher BMI as well as higher % body fat levels were significantly associated with higher levels of: insulin, IL6, and TNFα. There was a trend for association between lower fitness levels and higher insulin levels (r = −0.33, P = 0.07), and a significant association between lower fitness levels and higher IL6 and TNFα level. Following 12 months of the PN program we did not observe any significant between group differences for change in biomarker levels. Within the control group, IL8 levels decreased (P = 0.04). Within the intervention group, we observed decreased levels of insulin (P = 0.06), and TNFα (P = 0.02). In conclusion, we observed elevation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in BRCA1/2+ breast cancer survivors with excess body fat and low fitness at baseline. Following the intervention, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα were significantly reduced. BRCA1/2+ breast cancer survivors with prophylactic oophorectomy are still at enhanced risk for non-reproductive cancers. In this high risk population, identifying interventions such as PN to decrease chronic inflammation and subsequent DNA damage is critically important.
Sequencing Pancreatic Juice: Squeezing the Most Out of Surveillance
Authors: Lipner Matthew B. , Yeh Jen Jen
Published: March 2018

Next-generation sequencing of pancreatic juice can detect and quantify tumor-promoting mutations, supporting imaging and cytology findings to predict the degree of dysplasia in patients at high risk for pancreatic cancer. Future studies are needed to optimize this approach and determine how it best fits into clinical practice. Clin Cancer Res; 24(12); 2713–5. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Suenaga et al., p. 2963