bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Mechanoactivation Involves RGS5 (Regulator of G Protein Signaling 5) in Skeletal Muscle Arteries
Authors: Hong Kwangseok , Li Min , Nourian Zahra , Meininger Gerald A. , Hill Michael A.
Published: October 2017

Studies suggest that arteriolar pressure–induced vasoconstriction can be initiated by GPCRs (G protein–coupled receptors), including the AT
1
R (angiotensin II type 1 receptor). This raises the question, are such mechanisms regulated by negative feedback? The present studies examined whether RGS (regulators of G protein signaling) proteins in vascular smooth muscle cells are colocalized with the AT
1
R when activated by mechanical stress or angiotensin II and whether this modulates AT
1
R-mediated vasoconstriction. To determine whether activation of the AT
1
R recruits RGS5, an in situ proximity ligation assay was performed in primary cultures of cremaster muscle arteriolar vascular smooth muscle cells treated with angiotensin II or hypotonic solution in the absence or presence of candesartan (an AT
1
R blocker). Proximity ligation assay results revealed a concentration-dependent increase in trafficking/translocation of RGS5 toward the activated AT
1
R, which was attenuated by candesartan. In intact arterioles, knockdown of RGS5 enhanced constriction to angiotensin II and augmented myogenic responses to increased intraluminal pressure. Myogenic constriction was attenuated to a higher degree by candesartan in RGS5 siRNA-transfected arterioles, consistent with RGS5 contributing to downregulation of AT
1
R-mediated signaling. Further, translocation of RGS5 was impaired in vascular smooth muscle cells of spontaneously hypertensive rats. This is consistent with dysregulated (RGS5-mediated) AT
1
R signaling that could contribute to excessive vasoconstriction in hypertension. In intact vessels, candesartan reduced myogenic vasoconstriction to a greater extent in spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with controls. Collectively, these findings suggest that AT
1
R activation results in translocation of RGS5 toward the plasma membrane, limiting AT
1
R-mediated vasoconstriction through its role in G
q/11
protein–dependent signaling.
Aldosterone Target NGAL (Neutrophil Gelatinase–Associated Lipocalin) Is Involved in Cardiac Remodeling After Myocardial Infarction Through NFκB Pathway
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Ernesto , Buonafine Mathieu , Boukhalfa Ines , Ibarrola Jaime , Fernández-Celis Amaya , Kolkhof Peter , Rossignol Patrick , Girerd Nicolas , Mulder Paul , López-Andrés Natalia , Ouvrard-Pascaud Antoine , Jaisser Frédéric
Published: October 2017

Myocardial infarction (MI) is accompanied by cardiac fibrosis, which contributes to cardiac dysfunction. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists have beneficial effects in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction after MI. We herein investigated the role of the MR target NGAL (neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin) in post-MI cardiac damages. Both higher baseline NGAL and a greater increase in serum NGAL levels during follow-up were significantly associated with lower 6-month LV ejection fraction recovery in a cohort of 119 post-MI patients, as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. NGAL protein levels increased in the LV at 7 days post-MI in wild-type mice with MI. This effect was prevented by treatment with the nonsteroidal MR antagonist finerenone (1 mg/kg per day). NGAL knockout mice with MI had lower LV interstitial fibrosis and inflammation, better LV contractility and compliance, and greater stroke volume and cardiac output than wild-type mice with MI at 3 months post-MI. Aldosterone (10
−8
mol/L) increased NGAL expression in cultured human cardiac fibroblasts. Cells treated with aldosterone or NGAL (500 ng/mL) showed increased production of collagen type I. The effects of aldosterone were abolished by finerenone (10
−6
mol/L) or NGAL knockdown. This NGAL-mediated activity relied on NFκB (nuclear factor-κB) activation, confirmed by the use of the NFκB-specific inhibitor BAY11-7082, which prevented the effect of both aldosterone and NGAL on collagen type I production. In conclusion, NGAL, a downstream MR activation target, is a key mediator of post-MI cardiac damage. NGAL may be a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular pathological situations in which MR is involved.
Role of Kidneys in Sex Differences in Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Ximing , Qu Helena Y. , Jiang Shan , Zhang Jie , Fu Liying , Buggs Jacentha , Pang Bo , Wei Jin , Liu Ruisheng
Published: October 2017

The significance of kidneys in regulation of sodium and water balance and hemodynamics has been demonstrated both in patients and animal models. In the present study, we tested our hypothesis that kidneys play an essential role in control of sex differences in angiotensin II (Ang II)–dependent hypertension. Kidney transplantations (KTXs) were performed between male (M) and female (F) C57BL/6 mice (donor→recipient: F→F, M→M, F→M, and M→F). Radiotelemetry transmitters were implanted for measurement of mean arterial pressure during the infusion of Ang II (600 ng·kg
−1
·min
−1
). Gene expressions and inflammatory responses in the transplanted grafts were assessed. We found that same-sex–KTX mice still exhibited sex differences in Ang II–dependent hypertension (31.3±0.8 mm Hg in M→M versus 12.2±0.6 mm Hg in F→F), which were reduced between males and females when they received kidneys of the opposite sex (32.9±1 mm Hg in M→F versus 22.3±0.7 mm Hg in F→M). The sex differences in gene expressions, including AT
1
R (angiotensin II receptor, type 1), AT
1
R/AT
2
R, ET-1 (endothelin-1), ETA (endothelin receptor type A), NHE3 (sodium–hydrogen exchanger 3), α-ENaC (α-epithelial sodium channel), and γ-ENaC, were unaltered in same-sex KTXs and much lessened in cross-sex KTXs. In addition, the cross-sex KTXs exhibited more robust inflammatory responses reflected by higher expression of IL-6 (interleukin 6), TNFα (tumor necrosis factor α), and KC (keratinocyte-derived chemokine) than same-sex KTX. Our results indicate that kidneys play an essential role in sex differences of Ang II–dependent hypertension. KTX of male kidneys to females augmented the blood pressure response, whereas KTX of female kidneys to males attenuated the blood pressure response. The host’s extrarenal systems modulate expressions of many genes and inflammatory response, which may also contribute to the sex differences in blood pressure regulation.
Central Iliac Arteriovenous Anastomosis for Uncontrolled Hypertension
Authors: Lobo Melvin D. , Ott Christian , Sobotka Paul A. , Saxena Manish , Stanton Alice , Cockcroft John R. , Sulke Neil , Dolan Eamon , van der Giet Markus , Hoyer Joachim , Furniss Stephen S. , Foran John P. , Witkowski Adam , Januszewicz Andrzej , Schoors Danny , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Rensing Benno J. , Scott Benjamin , Ng G. André , Schmieder Roland E.
Published: October 2017

Creation of a central iliac arteriovenous anastomosis using a novel nitinol coupler device results in an immediate, significant reduction of blood pressure (BP). We present efficacy and safety findings at 12 months post-coupler insertion. This open-label, multicenter, prospective, randomized trial enrolled patients with a baseline office systolic BP ≥140 mm Hg and average daytime ambulatory BP ≥135/85 mm Hg. Subjects were randomly allocated to coupler implantation and continuing previous pharmacotherapy or to maintain previous treatment alone. At 12 months, 39 patients who had coupler therapy were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Office-based systolic BP reduced by 25.1±23.3 mm Hg (baseline, 174±18 mm Hg;
P
<0.0001) post-coupler placement, and office diastolic BP reduced by 20.8±13.3 mm Hg (baseline, 100±13 mm Hg;
P
<0.0001). Mean 24-hour ambulatory BP reduced by 12.6±17.4/15.3±9.7 mm Hg (
P
<0.0001 for both). In a prespecified subset of patients who failed to respond adequately to prior renal denervation, coupler therapy led to highly significant reduction in office systolic/diastolic BP (30.7/24.1 mm Hg) and significant reduction in 24-hour ambulatory systolic/diastolic BP (12.4/14.4 mm Hg) at 12 months (n=9). After coupler therapy, 14 patients (33%) developed ipsilateral venous stenosis; all were treated successfully with venous stenting. These findings confirm the importance of arterial mechanics in the pathophysiology of hypertension and support the clinical use of a central iliac arteriovenous anastomosis.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01642498.
Transcranial Cerebellar Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Verb Generation but Not Verb Naming in Poststroke Aphasia
Authors: Marangolo Paola , Fiori Valentina , Caltagirone Carlo , Pisano Francesca , Priori Alberto
Published: October 2017

Although the role of the cerebellum in motor function is well recognized, its involvement in the lexical domain remains to be further elucidated. Indeed, it has not yet been clarified whether the cerebellum is a language structure per se or whether it contributes to language processing when other cognitive components (e.g., cognitive effort, working memory) are required by the language task. Neuromodulation studies on healthy participants have suggested that cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a valuable tool to modulate cognitive functions. However, so far, only a single case study has investigated whether cerebellar stimulation enhances language recovery in aphasic individuals. In a randomized, crossover, double-blind design, we explored the effect of cerebellar tDCS coupled with language treatment for verb improvement in 12 aphasic individuals. Each participant received cerebellar tDCS (20 min, 2 mA) in four experimental conditions: (1) right cathodal and (2) sham stimulation during a verb generation task and (3) right cathodal and (4) sham stimulation during a verb naming task. Each experimental condition was run in five consecutive daily sessions over 4 weeks. At the end of treatment, a significant improvement was found after cathodal stimulation only in the verb generation task. No significant differences were present for verb naming among the two conditions. We hypothesize that cerebellar tDCS is a viable tool for recovery from aphasia but only when the language task, such as verb generation, also demands the activation of nonlinguistic strategies.
Dynamics of Learning in MLP: Natural Gradient and Singularity Revisited
Authors: Amari Shun-ichi , Ozeki Tomoko , Karakida Ryo , Yoshida Yuki , Okada Masato
Published: October 2017

The dynamics of supervised learning play a main role in deep learning, which takes place in the parameter space of a multilayer perceptron (MLP). We review the history of supervised stochastic gradient learning, focusing on its singular structure and natural gradient. The parameter space includes singular regions in which parameters are not identifiable. One of our results is a full exploration of the dynamical behaviors of stochastic gradient learning in an elementary singular network. The bad news is its pathological nature, in which part of the singular region becomes an attractor and another part a repulser at the same time, forming a Milnor attractor. A learning trajectory is attracted by the attractor region, staying in it for a long time, before it escapes the singular region through the repulser region. This is typical of plateau phenomena in learning. We demonstrate the strange topology of a singular region by introducing blow-down coordinates, which are useful for analyzing the natural gradient dynamics. We confirm that the natural gradient dynamics are free of critical slowdown. The second main result is the good news: the interactions of elementary singular networks eliminate the attractor part and the Milnor-type attractors disappear. This explains why large-scale networks do not suffer from serious critical slowdowns due to singularities. We finally show that the unit-wise natural gradient is effective for learning in spite of its low computational cost.
Sporolithon indopacificum sp. nov. (Sporolithales, Rhodophyta) from tropical western Indian and western Pacific oceans: First report, confirmed by DNA sequence data, of a widely distributed species of Sporolithon
Authors: MANEVELDT G.W. , GABRIELSON P.W. , KANGWE J.
Published: October 2017

Sporolithon indopacificum sp. nov. is characterized from Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. rbcL and psbA markers indicate that the species is unique compared to all other Sporolithon species that have thus far been sequenced. The species previously had been collected at Nukulau, Suva, Fiji and identified as S. episporum. The two species bear a close morpho-anatomical resemblance differing only by degree in three measured tetra/bisporangial characters. This is the first Sporolithon species confirmed to be widely distributed in the Indo-West Pacific based on DNA sequences.
Revision of the Hybobathus arx and Pelecinobaccha summa species groups (Diptera: Syrphidae)
Authors: MIRANDA GIL FELIPE GONÇALVES
Published: October 2017

The morphologically similar Hybobathus arx and Pelecinobaccha summa species groups are revised and distinguished from each other. Four new species are described (H. avittatus sp. nov., H. luciane sp. nov., P. alia sp. nov. and P. impostor sp. nov.), and three new combinations (H. obsoletus comb. nov., H. persimilis comb. nov., and P. cubensis comb. nov.) and several synonimies are proposed: Baccha bivittata Curran = H. arx (Fluke), B. myrtella Hull and B. nectarina Hull = H. obsoletus (Curran), B. druida Hull = H. phaeopterus (Schiner), B. pandora Hull = P. cubensis (Macquart), and B. susio Hull = P. summa (Fluke). The lectotype and paralectotypes of B. phaeoptera Schiner are also designated. The female genitalia are described for all species, and the puparium of H. luciane sp. nov. is described too. New prey records for H. luciane sp. nov. and H. phaeopterus are presented. Picture multi-optional keys were produced and links to these keys, as well as traditional dichotomous keys, are presented in this paper to identify the groups and their species.
Systematics of the family Carditidae (Bivalvia: Archiheterodonta) in the Cenozoic of Argentina
Authors: PÉREZ DAMIÁN E. , RÍO CLAUDIA J. DEL
Published: October 2017

The systematics of the Family Carditidae is currently poorly elucidated. This paper reviews the Eocene to Pleistocene carditids from Patagonia and Entre Ríos Province (Argentina). Twelve species are described and illustrated and the presence of the genera Cyclocardia Conrad, Pleuromeris Conrad, Scalaricardita Sacco, Fasciculicardia Maxwell and Purpurocardia Maxwell in southern South America is discussed. The genus Scalaricardita is documented for the first time in South America. Two new genera, Darwinicardia gen. nov. and Kolmeris n. gen. are proposed for the species ‘Venericardia’ patagonica (Sowerby) and ‘V.’ tehuelchana (Ihering), respectively, and one new species, Cyclocardia dalek sp. nov., is described.
A report on Lamiaceae-feeding Nepticulidae (Lepidoptera) from South America
Authors: STONIS JONAS R. , REMEIKIS ANDRIUS , DIŠKUS ARŪNAS , FORERO DIMITRI , TORRES NIXON CUMBICUS
Published: October 2017

We provide a report on Nepticulidae feeding on Lamiaceae plants in South America and describe two new species from the Andes: Stigmella lamiacifoliae Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., feeding on Salvia palifolia in Colombia, and S. scutellariae Remeikis & Stonis, sp. nov., feeding on Scutellaria volubilis in Ecuador. The leaf mines, adults, genitalia, and habitats of the new species are illustrated.
Measuring Cultural Competencies: The Development and Validation of a Revised Measure of Sociocultural Adaptation
Authors: Wilson Jessie , Ward Colleen , Fetvadjiev Velichko H. , Bethel Alicia
Published: October 2017

This research extends our work on the conceptualization and measurement of cultural competencies with a revised bifactor measurement model of sociocultural adaptation (the Revised Sociocultural Adaptation Scale [SCAS-R]). Study 1 describes the initial development and validation of the SCAS-R with its Social Interaction, Community Engagement, and Ecological Adaptability domains of cultural competencies based on a mixed sample of short- and long-term migrants ( N = 316). The construct validity of the revised scale was supported by significant correlations with social difficulties as assessed by the original Sociocultural Adaptation Scale; generic social skills; cultural intelligence; cultural engagement; international adjustment; and psychological adaptation: life satisfaction and depression. The bifactor model was confirmed in Study 2 with a sample of international students ( N = 1,527). Results converged with previously established links between sociocultural adaptation and background variables (e.g., language proficiency), psychological adaptation, and situational factors such as cultural distance and perceived discrimination. Study 3 confirmed the predictive and incremental validity of the SCAS-R by investigating the influence of cultural competence on migration decision making in a varied sample of newly arrived migrants in New Zealand ( N = 184). Cultural competence as assessed by the SCAS-R significantly explained additional variance in immigrants’ intention to settle permanently in New Zealand over and above migration motivations, social connectedness, life satisfaction, and language proficiency. Our findings address the limitations of the original SCAS measure, and offer initial validation of an improved measure for assessing the culturally competent behaviors required for appropriate, effective, and adaptive functioning in new cultural settings.
Observations on the practice and profession of modeling and simulation: A survey approach
Authors: Padilla Jose J , Diallo Saikou Y , Lynch Christopher J , Gore Ross
Published: October 2017

This paper reports on a survey capturing modelers’ perspectives of Modeling and Simulation (M&S). The survey was completed by a total of 283 respondents from the M&S community with 167 fully completed surveys and 151 respondents identified as model builders. Participants include people from government, academia, and industry in varied roles ranging from researchers to business developers. Respondents also represent a diverse educational background ranging from oceanography, social sciences, and engineering. The survey focuses on three dimensions namely: (a) models and simulations, (b) participants, and (c) how participants interact with models/simulations. We provide six observations from the data analysis: there is no dominating paradigm in M&S, the agent-based community is distinct from the discrete-event community, conceptual modeling is the art of M&S, simulation verification is mostly a trial and error activity, validate by all means necessary, and model accreditation is still too uncommon. A key finding from these observations is the identification of an over-reliance on informal methods for conceptualization and verification in M&S. We posit that this over-reliance on informal methods challenges model/simulation validity.
Martin Luther and the Jews: How Protestant Churches in Germany Deal with the Reformer’s Dark Side
Authors: Hauger Martin
Published: October 2017

Despite the fact that Luther was referenced in order to justify anti-Semitic hatred of Jews during the time of National Socialism it took the German evangelical churches almost forty years to get round to intensively working through Luther’s anti-Jewish Statements and their effects through history. During the first decades after World War II, intra-church discussion focused on working through its own guilt (1945–1950) and finding a new direction for theology concerning Israel (1960–1980). However, the 500th anniversary of Luther’s birth in 1983 fueled a discussion about the Reformer’s attitude towards the Jews. It centered, first, on the question of how to assess the anti-Semitic co-option of Luther in the Nazi period; second, on how Luther’s friendly statements towards Jews in his early years relate to the invective of his late writings. The latest EKD statement turns away from a genetic view of Luther towards an appraisal of his theological assessment of Judaism in connection with his Reformation theology.
Christians Preparing for Conversation: Jewish–Christian Relations
Authors: Duff Nancy J.
Published: October 2017

This article suggests that Christians need to prepare for Jewish–Christian conversation by cultivating a better knowledge of Jewish traditions and by critically examining Christian doctrine and biblical interpretation to rid Christian language and attitudes of anti-Judaism. To do the latter, Christians do not have to give up core beliefs of the Christian faith.
Physically absent, visually present: Joachim Schumacher’s photographs of Germany’s Ruhr Valley
Authors: Guerin Frances
Published: October 2017

This article examines the photographs of Joachim Schumacher for their vision of a landscape haunted by the forgotten, the silenced and the increasingly invisible lives erased by the re-articulation of Germany’s Ruhr region. The article places Schumacher’s work in relationship to post-war German photography, both that which imagines the memories of World War II and the Holocaust, as well as the 1980s urban photographs of the Düsseldorf School photographers. Within this context, Schumacher’s photographs are understood for their location of place and history on the revitalized Ruhr landscape. In addition, the article considers the photographs in relationship to the New Topographics to demonstrate their simultaneous placelessness. In this international context, Schumacher’s photographs can be seen as indicative of a European placelessness that has emerged in the wake of the closure of mining and industry.
A ‘patient’ aesthetic: Exploring the visual language of Italian urban landscape photographer Gabriele Basilico
Authors: Tommasini Alexandra
Published: October 2017

This article stakes a claim on the word ‘patient’, both its nominal and adjectival format, as a discursive tool to explore Italian photographer Gabriele Basilico’s visual language. The ‘patient’ metaphor is also employed to investigate the critical questions regarding the status of the documentary value of Basilico’s work. The discussion focuses on four exemplary photographs that span Basilico’s career and depict European and international cities in order to understand the slow unfolding of his aesthetic throughout his over 30-year career. It debates the extent to which Basilico’s visual language could be interpreted as avoiding engagement with the subject pictured, and in so doing offers critical interpretations of Basilico’s persistent gaze on the built environment.
Short‐ versus Long‐term Stenting in Children with Subglottic Stenosis Undergoing Laryngotracheal Reconstruction
Authors: Smith David F. , de Alarcon Alessandro , Jefferson Niall D. , Tabangin Meredith E. , Rutter Michael J. , Cotton Robin T. , Hart Catherine K.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Suprastomal stents are routinely used in laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) to stabilize grafts and provide framework to sites of repair. However, the duration of stenting varies according to patient history and physician preference. We examined outcomes of short‐ versus long‐term stenting in children with subglottic stenosis (SGS) undergoing LTR.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty‐six children <18 years old who underwent double‐stage LTR for SGS from January 2012 to January 2015 were included. Demographic data, stenosis grade, and decannulation rates were compared between children with short‐term stenting (≤21 days; n = 14) and those with long‐term stenting (>21 days; n = 22).

Results

No significant difference between groups was seen for sex, age, race, or previous repair. Children in the short‐term group were stented for 10.9 ± 4.9 days, compared with 44.0 ± 10.6 for those long‐term (P <. 0001). A similar number of children with short‐ versus long‐term stents had grade 3/4 stenosis preoperatively (71.4% vs 77.2%). Although time to decannulation was not significantly different, 72.7% of children with long‐term stents were decannulated, as opposed to 35.7% with short‐term stents (P =. 03). After adjusting for grade at surgery and age, children with long‐term stents had 4.3 greater odds (95% CI, 1.0‐18.3) of decannulation than children with short‐term stents.

Conclusions

Children with long‐term stenting were more likely to be successfully decannulated. Although long‐term stenting improved outcomes for children with SGS, additional research is needed to better define ideal candidates for short‐ versus long‐term stenting.
National Multispecialty Survey Results: Comparing Morbidity and Mortality Conference Practices within and outside Otolaryngology
Authors: Balakrishnan Karthik , Arjmand Ellis M. , Nussenbaum Brian , Snyderman Carl
Published: October 2017

Objective

The objective is to describe variations in the otolaryngology morbidity and mortality (M&M) conference and to compare with other specialties.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

The setting included otolaryngology departments across the United States and nonotolaryngology medical and surgical departments at 4 academic medical centers.

Subjects and Methods

Participants were members of a national otolaryngology quality/safety network and nonotolaryngology quality leaders at 4 large academic hospitals. Surveys were administered January 2017. Respondents described M&M conference practices, goals, and educational role.

Results

Twenty‐eight of 39 individuals representing 28 institutions completed the otolaryngology survey (72% response rate). Of 197 individuals, 60 (30% response rate) representing 11 surgical and 20 nonsurgical specialties completed the comparison survey. Twenty‐seven of 28 otolaryngologists (46 of 60 nonotolaryngologists) worked in academic settings. All otolaryngology programs conducted an M&M conference: 54% discussed all adverse events and errors; 32% used standard case selection processes; 70% used structured discussion, usually root cause analysis (64%); and 32% classified harm level. In comparison with other specialties, otolaryngology programs were more likely to discuss all adverse events and errors (P =. 01). Most conferences led to quality projects and intrainstitutional communication: 22% communicated to patients and families; 73% of respondents thought that M&M conferences should be standardized or use “best practices.” In both surveys, improving patient care was rated the conference’s most important function, followed by trainee education and culture change. Patient care and practice‐based learning were rated the most relevant Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Core Competencies in both surveys.

Conclusions

Academic otolaryngology M&M practices generally align with other specialties, but specifics vary widely, making collaborative quality improvement challenging. Educational and administrative priorities cross specialties. Most respondents thought that standardization and best practices are worthwhile. Nonacademic practice data are needed.
Dialogue, inquiry, and encounter: Critical geographies of online higher education
Authors: House-Peters Lily A. , Del Casino Vincent J. , Brooks Catherine F.
Published: October 2017

The rapid expansion of online education compels debate over what accessible higher education should be, how it should be delivered, and whom it should serve. While geographers remain relatively marginal to this debate, they have engaged the question of the neoliberal university, where online education is sometimes characterized as another instantiation of the neoliberal turn. This paper draws geographies of education scholarship into productive conversation with online teaching and learning, critical pedagogy, and public geographies literatures to argue that geographers can reframe the debate over online education and reposition it as a productive space of critical dialogue, inquiry, and encounter.
The transition from youth to adult mental health services and the economic impact on youth and their families
Authors: Barr Neil G. , Longo Christopher J. , Embrett Mark G. , Mulvale Gillian M. , Nguyen Tram , Randall Glen E.
Published: October 2017

The transition from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) can be challenging for youth, their families, and healthcare providers. The purpose of this study was to identify, summarize, and assess evidence found in scholarly literature regarding the economic impact on youth and their families during the transition from CAMHS to AMHS. Relevant studies were identified through a search of 7 electronic platforms. The search identified 829 articles; 5 of which met all inclusion criteria. Evidence from the included studies suggests that, when continuity of care is lacking, transitions from CAMHS to AMHS have substantial impacts on the financial demands of youth and their families. These demands are due to increases in the cost of care, loss of employment income and productivity, and changes in insurance coverage. However, there remains limited information in this area, which highlights the need for further research.
Design of effective interventions for smoking cessation through financial and non-financial incentives
Authors: Balderrama Fanor , Longo Christopher J.
Published: October 2017

Smoking has a tremendous negative impact on the Canadian economy and contributes to growing costs in the healthcare system. Efforts to reduce smoking rates may therefore reduce strain on the healthcare system and free up scarce resources. Academic literature on economic smoking cessation incentives presents a countless variety of interventions that have met with varying degrees of success. This study reviews six different variables used in the design of incentives in smoking cessation interventions: direction, form, magnitude, certainty, recipient grouping, and target demographic. The purpose of this study is to provide analysis and recommendations about the contribution of each variable into the overall effectiveness of smoking cessation programs and help health leaders design better interventions according to their specific needs.
Value agenda for heart failure in Ontario: Application of the Porter model
Authors: Calton Rakesh , de Haan Kim , Dewachter Kerrie , Smith Susan Komhyr
Published: October 2017

Value in healthcare is a challenge that is faced all over the world; costs continue to rise despite efforts to increase quality and efficient healthcare delivery. Heart failure is a progressive chronic condition that has been demonstrated to benefit from close monitoring with positive effects on mortality and morbidity when well managed. This article will review the Porter model for value in healthcare by comparing the current state of heart failure management in Ontario, Canada, with the six key concepts of the value agenda. The Ontario quality-based procedure model has been implemented for heart failure management and will be applied against the Porter model to provide an increased understanding of how managers can think differently about patient outcomes. An examination as to how the quality and value of the treatment of this condition can be improved will be conducted using the principles of the value agenda.
Investigation of the impact effects of thermoplastic polyurethane reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotube for soldier boot under the blast load
Authors: Doğru MH , Güzelbey İH
Published: October 2017

The purpose of the study is to reduce the damage of the soldier boots, which subject the blast load. The boot sole was reinforced to perform the study. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) materials were used for this reinforcement. In addition, TPU 508 material was used as energy absorber, and Carbon-Kevlar fiber composite was utilized to decrease the impact effect of blast load. Acceleration test system was used to simulate the blast load. Three different boots were used in the study (ordinary boot, semi-damped boot, and fully damped boot). Twin-screw extruder was used to blend melted material to prepare polyurethane MWCNT with weight fraction from 1% to 5%. In addition, mechanical properties of these materials were obtained by tensile tests. The best mechanical properties were obtained with the weight fraction of 1% MWCNT. Acceleration test was applied to measure the energy damping performance of new designed boot sole. As a result of the study, the best reduction on the blast load was obtained nearly 12% with the fully damped soldier boot.
Integration of Community Pharmacists in Transition of Care (TOC) Services: Current Trends and Pharmacist Perceptions
Authors: Zeleznikar Elizabeth A. , Kroehl Miranda E. , Perica Katharine M. , Thompson Angela M. , Trinkley Katy E.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Barriers exist for patients transitioning from one health-care setting to another, or to home, and health-care systems are falling short of meeting patient needs during this time. Community pharmacist incorporation poses a solution to the current communication breakdown and high rates of medication errors during transitions of care (TOC). The purpose of this study was to determine community pharmacists’ involvement in and perceptions of TOC services.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study using electronic surveys nationwide to pharmacists employed by a community pharmacy chain.

Results:

Of 7236 pharmacists surveyed, 546 (7.5%) responded. Only 33 (6%) pharmacists reported their pharmacy participates in TOC services. Most pharmacists (81.5%) reported receiving discharge medication lists. The most common reported barrier to TOC participation is lack of electronic integration with surrounding hospitals (51.1%). Most pharmacists agreed that (1) it is valuable to receive discharge medication lists (83.3%), (2) receiving discharge medication lists is beneficial for patients’ health (89.1%), (3) discharge medication list receipt improves medication safety (88.8%).

Conclusions:

Most pharmacists reported receiving discharge medication lists and reported discharge medication lists are beneficial, but less than half purposefully used medication lists. To close TOC gaps, health-care providers must collaborate to overcome barriers for successful TOC services.
Third-order safe consensus of heterogeneous vehicular platoons with MPF network topology: Constant time headway strategy
Authors: Chehardoli Hossein , Homaeinezhad Mohammad R.
Published: October 2017

In this paper the problem of centralized control of a platoon of non-identical vehicles under constant time headway strategy (CTHS) is investigated for multi predecessors following (MPF) topology. A centralized neighbor based linear control law using relative position and velocity is considered for each vehicle. Due to communication and parasitic delays and time-varying network topology, the closed-loop dynamics of platoon is in the form of a multiple delayed switched linear system. New approaches are developed to perform the internal stability analysis of one-dimensional heterogeneous vehicular platoons. Afterwards, sufficient conditions assuring the string stability of a platoon under MPF topology are obtained by presenting a new theorem. In continuance of the paper, some conditions on control parameters guaranteeing safety of the platoon in an emergency braking maneuver are presented through a new theorem. Several simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Availability analysis on combustion of n-heptane and isooctane blends in a reactivity controlled compression ignition engine
Authors: Mohebbi Mostafa , Reyhanian Masoud , Ghofrani Iraj , Aziz Azhar Abdul , Hosseini Vahid
Published: October 2017

Unfortunately, energy demands and destruction of the environment from uncontrolled manipulation of fossil fuels have increased. Climate change concerns have resulted in the rapid use of new, alternative combustion technologies. In this study, reactivity controlled compression ignition (RCCI) combustion, which can simply be exploited in internal combustion (IC) engines, is investigated. To introduce and identify extra insightful information, an exergy-based study was conducted to classify various irreversibility and loss sources. Multidimensional models were combined with the primary kinetics mechanism to investigate RCCI combustion, incorporating the second law of thermodynamics. The n-heptane, a highly reactive fuel, was supplied by direct injection into the cylinder, whereas premixed fuel was supplied through the intake port in an isooctane/ n-heptane RCCI engine. For five n-heptane increments (5%, 7.5%, 15%, 25%, and 40%) and six different exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rates (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%), accumulation of different exergy terms was calculated. The results show that as EGR introduction increases from 0% to 50%, the exergy destruction increases from 21.1% to 28.9%. Furthermore, the value of exhaust thermomechanical exergy decreases from 18.4% to 14.4% of the mixture fuel chemical exergy. Among the five different high reactive fuel mass regimes, the 40% n-heptane mass fraction has the major heat transfer exergy owing to its advanced CA50 that exerts a unique influence on cylinder charge temperature of heat transfer layer. The utilization efficiency of exhaust in RCCI is less affected by the variation of reactive fuel mass fraction by contrast; it will significantly influence heat transfer availability. This study revealed that with increasing reactive fuel ( n-heptane) from 7.5% to 40% the irreversibility decreased from 28.6% to 25.8% and the second law efficiency first increased from 43.2% to 44.6% at 15% n-heptane then decreased to 42.9% at 40% n-heptane.
Psychosocial Pathways Towards a Sustainable Society
Authors: Tripathi R. C. , Singh Sunit
Published: October 2017

This article focuses on a social intervention effort that has been going on for about 15 years to free a group of people who have been under debt bondage in rural India. They have worked as members of self-help groups (SHGs) and now are members of a producers’ company devoted to the cause of organic farming. The article investigates the role that is played by greed, altruism and social capital in sustainability perceptions of such villagers who only recently got exposed to the ways of an aspirational society. We found that greed and altruism played very little part in predicting sustainability perceptions, but social capital was a major predictor. While bonding social capital enhanced sustainability perception, bridging social capital reduced it. The results are understood in the overall social context of the Indian rural society and the social processes that unfolded during this intervention.
Social and Instrumental Interaction Between Parents and Their Toddlers With Autism: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Schertz Hannah H. , Call-Cummings Meagan , Horn Kathryn , Quest Kelsey , Law Rhiannon Steffen
Published: October 2017

A qualitative study of three parents and their toddlers with autism was conducted to investigate the communicative functions underlying parent–toddler interactions and how the instrumental or social nature of one partner’s actions influenced the other’s engagement. Parent–child interaction videos collected from a separate intervention study were transcribed with thick description, coded for literal and inferential meaning by independent coders, and analyzed for emergent themes following an iterative process of code categorization. Themes converged around the partner as instrument, attempted but missed social connections, and congruent social engagement. A complementary interactional sequential analysis revealed that communicative functions of initiating partners were largely mirrored in their partners’ responding actions, suggesting that actively supporting parents to interact with their toddlers socially, rather than prescriptively or instrumentally, may be a potent intervention strategy to address the core social communication challenge in autism during the formative early developmental period.
Hierarchies of Need in Sustainable Development: A Resource Dependence Approach for Local Governance
Authors: Deslatte Aaron , Stokan Eric
Published: October 2017

Urban sustainability is a burgeoning focus for urban scholarship but rarely examined within the larger context of local government economic activities. Why should cities focusing on cutback management and competition for tax revenues be expected to devote all but the fleetest of attention to carbon footprints or metropolitan-wide environmental or social problems? To address this question, we utilize a resource dependence (RD) theoretical framework to conceptualize sustainable development as a pattern of contractual arrangements between governments and firms shaped by resource constraints. Utilizing survey data of U.S. cities and a Bayesian methodological approach, we present evidence that municipal job-recruitment efforts reduce the probability of observing an overall sustainability policy commitment. Cities which placed greater emphasis on retaining and developing existing businesses are also more committed to sustainability.
Using IMPrESS to guide policy change in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tinelli Michela , Kanavos Panos , Efthymiadou Olina , Visintin Erica , Grimaccia Federico , Mossman Jean
Published: October 2017

The International MultiPlE Sclerosis Study (IMPrESS) studied the significant impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on the health and well-being of both people with the disease and their caregivers, along with its broader socioeconomic impact. Results confirmed that there is an urgent need to achieve better outcomes for people with MS. This paper uses results from the IMPrESS to present new international evidence on the socioeconomic burden of MS and discuss the merits of a likely paradigm shift in the management of MS towards the use of better (and more accurate) diagnostic follow-up to monitor disease progression and the earlier use of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) to achieve better clinical, quality-of-life and socioeconomic results for individuals.
Authentic Leadership in HRD—Identity Matters! Critical Explorations on Leading Authentically
Authors: Storberg-Walker Julia , Gardiner Rita A.
Published: October 2017

The Problem

Authentic leadership (AL) has been viewed as an attractive leadership model to combat destructive forms of leadership. On a simple level, it is difficult to argue against authenticity when leading and developing leaders. However, on a deeper level, many scholars have challenged the ideas supporting authentic leadership to highlight the model’s theoretical assumptions and implicit values. Of the critiques, one of the most relevant challenges for HRD (Human Resource Development) is the critique based on identity because this critique aligns with HRD’s focus on diversity and inclusion. The problem is that HRD researchers and practitioners need to understand more about how authentic leadership, as described typically in scholarly and practitioner journals, homogenizes the workplace and discounts diverse ways of being authentic.

The Solution

The articles in this Special Issue offer a variety of different perspectives on the connection between authentic leadership and identity to make transparent the hidden assumptions, power dynamics, and contextual forces at play. When these unexamined and implicit factors are considered, HRD scholars and practitioners will be in a better position to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as well as in teaching, research, and service.

The Stakeholders

Researchers and practitioners interested in authentic leadership, diversity and inclusion, and power.
Authentic Leadership and Talent Development: Fulfilling Individual Potential in Sociocultural Context
Authors: Debebe Gelaye
Published: October 2017

The Problem

Although leadership researchers have alluded to a connection between talent and leadership, the relationship has not been explored.

The Solution

Leadership entails influence through inspiration. A key assumption of this article is that people inspire others when they themselves are inspired by what they do and, further, that such inspiration stems from authentic talent development. Authentic talent development is a process whereby individuals discover what they are good at and love to do, and use their talents to express their values. This article incorporates insights from the leadership authenticity and talent development literatures to present a framework of authentic leadership and talent development in sociocultural context. The framework illuminates how social identity ascription processes can thwart the course of an individual’s talent development efforts. It also shows how individuals can overcome these pressures by cultivating positive psychological capital (PsyCap), thereby pursuing personally resonant talent trajectories.

The Stakeholders

This article is relevant to Human Resource Development (HRD) researchers and scholar-practitioners, and those that design and deliver leadership development programs. It is also relevant to students of leadership in academic and corporate settings.
Dual ETA/ETB blockade with macitentan improves both vascular remodeling and angiogenesis in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Nadeau Valerie , Potus Francois , Boucherat Olivier , Paradis Renee , Tremblay Eve , Iglarz Marc , Paulin Roxane , Bonnet Sebastien , Provencher Steeve
Published: October 2017

Dysregulated metabolism and rarefaction of the capillary network play a critical role in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) etiology. They are associated with a decrease in perfusion of the lungs, skeletal muscles, and right ventricle (RV). Previous studies suggested that endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) modulates both metabolism and angiogenesis. We hypothesized that dual ETA/ETB receptors blockade improves PAH by improving cell metabolism and promoting angiogenesis. Five weeks after disease induction, Sugen/hypoxic rats presented severe PAH with pulmonary artery (PA) remodeling, RV hypertrophy and capillary rarefaction in the lungs, RV, and skeletal muscles (microCT angiogram, lectin perfusion, CD31 staining). Two‐week treatment with dual ETA/ETB receptors antagonist macitentan (30 mg/kg/d) significantly improved pulmonary hemodynamics, PA vascular remodeling, and RV function and hypertrophy compared to vehicle‐treated animals (all P = 0.05). Moreover, macitentan markedly increased lung, RV and quadriceps perfusion, and microvascular density (all P = 0.05). In vitro, these effects were associated with increases in oxidative phosphorylation (oxPhox) and markedly reduced cell proliferation of PAH‐PA smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) treated with macitentan without affecting apoptosis. While macitentan did not affect oxPhox, proliferation, and apoptosis of PAH–PA endothelial cells (PAECs), it significantly improved their angiogenic capacity (tube formation assay). Exposure of control PASMC and PAEC to ET‐1 fully mimicked the PAH cells phenotype, thus confirming that ET‐1 is implicated in both metabolism and angiogenesis abnormalities in PAH. Dual ETA/ETB receptor blockade improved the metabolic changes involved in PAH‐PASMCs’ proliferation and the angiogenic capacity of PAH‐PAEC leading to an increased capillary density in lungs, RV, and skeletal muscles.