bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Cerebral Flow Autoregulation Function on Cerebral Flow Rate Under Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Support
Authors: Bozkurt Selim
Published: May 2018

Neurological complications in continuous flow left ventricular assist device (CF‐LVAD) patients are the second‐leading risk of death after multi‐organ failure. They are associated with altered blood flow in the cardiovascular system because of CF‐LVAD support. Moreover, an impaired cerebral autoregulation function may also contribute to complications such as hyperperfusion in the cerebral circulation under mechanical circulatory support. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of cerebral autoregulatory function on cerebral blood flow rate under CF‐LVAD support. A lumped parameter model was used to simulate the cardiovascular system including the heart chambers, heart valves, systemic and pulmonary circulations and cerebral circulation which includes entire Circle of Willis. A baroreflex model was used to regulate the systemic arteriolar and cerebral vascular resistances and a model of the Micromed CF‐LVAD was used to simulate the pump dynamics at different operating speeds. Additionally, preserved and impaired cerebral autoregulatory functions were simulated in heart failure and under CF‐LVAD support. Cerebral blood flow rate was restored under CF‐LVAD support at 10 500 rpm pump operating speed which generated a similar arterial blood pressure and blood flow as in a healthy condition for the impaired cerebral autoregulatory function while the preserved cerebral autoregulatory function regulated the cerebral flow rate within a relatively low range for the applied pump operating speeds. Relatively low or high pump operating speeds may cause underpefusion or hyperperfusion for a failing cardiovascular system with impaired cerebral autoregulatory function under CF‐LVAD support which will contribute to the worsening of cerebral complications.
Development and validation of the Bullying and Cyberbullying Scale for Adolescents: A multi‐dimensional measurement model
Authors: Thomas Hannah J. , Scott James G. , Coates Jason M. , Connor Jason P.
Published: May 2018

Background

Intervention on adolescent bullying is reliant on valid and reliable measurement of victimization and perpetration experiences across different behavioural expressions.

Aims

This study developed and validated a survey tool that integrates measurement of both traditional and cyber bullying to test a theoretically driven multi‐dimensional model.

Sample

Adolescents from 10 mainstream secondary schools completed a baseline and follow‐up survey (N = 1,217; Mage = 14 years; 66.2% male).

Methods

The Bullying and cyberbullying Scale for Adolescents (BCS‐A) developed for this study comprised parallel victimization and perpetration subscales, each with 20 items. Additional measures of bullying (Olweus Global Bullying and the Forms of Bullying Scale [FBS]), as well as measures of internalizing and externalizing problems, school connectedness, social support, and personality, were used to further assess validity.

Results

Factor structure was determined, and then, the suitability of items was assessed according to the following criteria: (1) factor interpretability, (2) item correlations, (3) model parsimony, and (4) measurement equivalence across victimization and perpetration experiences. The final models comprised four factors: physical, verbal, relational, and cyber. The final scale was revised to two 13‐item subscales. The BCS‐A demonstrated acceptable concurrent and convergent validity (internalizing and externalizing problems, school connectedness, social support, and personality), as well as predictive validity over 6 months.

Conclusions

The BCS‐A has sound psychometric properties. This tool establishes measurement equivalence across types of involvement and behavioural forms common among adolescents. An improved measurement method could add greater rigour to the evaluation of intervention programmes and also enable interventions to be tailored to subscale profiles.
Postoperative complications of contemporary open and robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy using standardised reporting systems
Authors: Pompe Raisa S. , Beyer Burkhard , Haese Alexander , Preisser Felix , Michl Uwe , Steuber Thomas , Graefen Markus , Huland Hartwig , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Tilki Derya
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To analyse time trends and contemporary rates of postoperative complications after radical prostatectomy (RP) and to compare the complication profile of open RP (ORP) and robot‐assisted laparoscopic RP (RALP) using standardised reporting systems.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective analysis of 13 924 RP patients in a single institution (2005–2015). Complications were collected during hospital stay and via standardised questionnaire 3 months after, and grouped into eight schemes. Since 2013, the revised Clavien–Dindo classification was used (n = 4 379). Annual incidence rates of different complications were graphically displayed. Multivariable logistic regression analyses compared complications between ORP and RALP after inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

Results

After the introduction of standardised classification systems, complication rates have increased with a contemporary rate of 20.6% (2013–2015). While minor Clavien–Dindo grades represented the majority (I: 10.6%; II: 7.9%), severe complications (Grades IV–V) were rare (<1%). In logistic regression analyses after IPTW, RALP was associated with less blood loss, shorter catheterisation time, and lower risk of Clavien–Dindo Grade II and III complications.

Conclusion

Our results emphasise the importance of standardised reporting systems for quality control and comparison across approaches or institutions. Contemporary complication rates in a high‐volume centre remain low and are most frequently minor Clavien–Dindo grades. RALP had a slightly better complication profile compared to ORP.
Chronic liver injury promotes hepatocarcinoma cell seeding and growth, associated with infiltration by macrophages
Authors: Delire Bénédicte , Henriet Patrick , Lemoine Pascale , Leclercq Isabelle A. , Stärkel Peter
Published: May 2018

Ninety percent of hepatocarcinoma (HCC) develops in a chronically damaged liver. Interactions between non‐tumor stromal components, especially macrophages, and cancer cells are still incompletely understood. Our aim was to determine whether a chronically injured liver represents a favorable environment for the seeding and growth of HCC cells, and to evaluate the potential roles of macrophages infiltrated within the tumor. HCC cells were injected into the liver in healthy mice (healthy liver group [HL]) and in mice chronically treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 7 weeks (CCl4 7w group). Livers were examined for the presence of tumor 2 weeks post‐injection. Tumor and non‐tumor tissues were analyzed for macrophage infiltration, origin (monocytes‐derived vs resident macrophages) and polarization state, and MMP production. Fifty‐three percent of mice developed neoplastic lesion in the HL group whereas a tumor lesion was found in all livers in the CCl4 7w group. Macrophages infiltrated more deeply the tumors of the CCl4 7w group. Evaluation of factors involved in the recruitment of macrophages and of markers of their polarization state was in favor of prominent infiltration of M2 pro‐tumor monocyte‐derived macrophages inside the tumors developing in a chronically injured liver. MMP‐2 and ‐9 production, attributed to M2 pro‐tumor macrophages, was significantly higher in the tumors of the CCl4 7w group. In our model, chronic liver damage promotes cancer development. Our results suggest that an injured background favors the infiltration of M2 pro‐tumor monocyte‐derived macrophages. These secrete MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 that promote tumor progression.
Comparing visual acuity, range of vision and spectacle independence in the extended range of vision and monofocal intraocular lens
Authors: Hogarty Daniel T , Russell Deborah J , Ward Bernadette M , Dewhurst Nicholas , Burt Peter
Published: May 2018

Importance

This study is the first to compare the extended range of vision (ERV) intraocular lens (IOL) targeted at micro‐monovision to a monofocal targeted at binocular emmetropia.

Background

Compares visual acuity, range of vision and spectacle independence in monofocal and ERV IOLs.

Design

Assessor‐blinded retrospective cohort study.

Participants

Eighty‐eight participants (176 eyes) with bilateral IOL implants at 5+ month postoperative review.

Methods

Regression analyses (general estimating equations and multiple linear regression) tested associations between IOL type (ZA9002 Tecnis 3‐piece or Tecnis ZCT monofocal; and Tecnis Symfony ERV IOL) and visual acuity, adjusting for key confounders including residual astigmatism.

Main Outcome Measures

Monocular and binocular visual acuity measured with and without distance refractive correction at distance (3.00 m), intermediate (1.00 and 0.63 m) and near (0.40 m) (logMAR units); near vision reading test used British ‘N’ notation; self‐reported spectacle independence.

Results

There was no significant difference between ERV and monofocal groups in uncorrected binocular visual acuity at distance (P = 0.595). Binocular uncorrected visual acuity at intermediate (0.63 m: monofocal 0.24, ERV 0.09, P < 0.001) and near (0.40 m: monofocal 0.42, ERV 0.18, P < 0.001) were significantly better in the ERV group. Binocular uncorrected near vision: all the ERV group read N8 or better, compared to 36% in the monofocal group (P < 0.001); 93% of the ERV group reported spectacle independence at near compared to 33% in the monofocal group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions and Relevance

The ERV IOL, targeted to achieve micro‐monovision, demonstrated superior range of visual acuity and spectacle independence compared to the monofocal targeted to achieve emmetropia.
Folliculotropic mycosis fungoides
Authors: Mitteldorf Christina , Stadler Rudolf , Sander Christian A. , Kempf Werner
Published: May 2018

Accepted by the WHO and EORTC as a variant of classic mycosis fungoides, folliculotropic (syn.: follicular or pilotropic) mycosis fungoides (FMF) is characterized by a broad clinical and histological spectrum with numerous differential diagnoses. Recent studies have shown that FMF can be divided into two prognostically different subgroups, both marked by histological as well as clinical differences. Treatment should therefore be tailored to the various subtypes and clinical courses. The present review highlights the clinical and histological manifestations of FMF as well as the new subclassification. Moreover, important differential diagnoses and therapeutic options are discussed.
Near‐complete aortic mechanical valve dehiscence due to endocarditis reinfection
Authors: Gerstein Neal S. , Bhamidipati Castigliano M. , Schulman Peter M.
Published: May 2018

Prosthetic valve infective endocarditis (IE) is one of the most serious postimplantation complications. Prosthetic aortic valve IE constitutes 1%–6% of all prosthetic valve IE cases. We present a dramatic echocardiographic case of prosthetic aortic valve IE leading to near‐complete valve dehiscence. Echocardiographic evidence of prosthetic aortic valve rocking motion is indicative of significant dehiscence. Aside from IE, other causes and risk factors for prosthetic aortic valve dehiscence include inflammatory and autoimmune vasculitides, concomitant ascending aorta aneurysm, and aortic root calcification.
Processing technique of ratings for ranking of alternatives (PROTERRA)
Authors: Kobryń Andrzej , Prystrom Joanna
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a new approach to multicriteria decision analysis. They were named as processing technique of ratings for ranking of alternatives (PROTERRA). The consecutive steps of the process include normalization of the ratings, calculating of the ratings ratios within each pair of the alternatives, creating a component matrix for each of the criteria, and creating a total matrix that is the sum of the weighted component matrices. Aggregated ratings of individual alternatives result from the sums of all the values of the corresponding rows and columns of the total matrix elements. A practical application of the PROTERRA has been illustrated with an example of a decision problem concerning the choice of a shopping centre location. The analysis results of the PROTERRA are compared with other results obtained using the most popular methods, that is, analytic hierarchy process, preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations, and technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution. In order to assess the stability of the ranking order obtained by the PROTERRA algorithm, the influence of weights variations on the final ranking results were tested. The sensitivity analysis was also carried out for the other methods, that is, preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations, analytic hierarchy process, and technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution. On this basis, a stability of rankings resulting from all analysed methods were compared.
Comparing Inference Methods for Non‐probability Samples
Authors: Buelens Bart , Burger Joep , van den Brakel Jan A.
Published: May 2018

Social and economic scientists are tempted to use emerging data sources like big data to compile information about finite populations as an alternative for traditional survey samples. These data sources generally cover an unknown part of the population of interest. Simply assuming that analyses made on these data are applicable to larger populations is wrong. The mere volume of data provides no guarantee for valid inference. Tackling this problem with methods originally developed for probability sampling is possible but shown here to be limited. A wider range of model‐based predictive inference methods proposed in the literature are reviewed and evaluated in a simulation study using real‐world data on annual mileages by vehicles. We propose to extend this predictive inference framework with machine learning methods for inference from samples that are generated through mechanisms other than random sampling from a target population. Describing economies and societies using sensor data, internet search data, social media and voluntary opt‐in panels is cost‐effective and timely compared with traditional surveys but requires an extended inference framework as proposed in this article.
Statistical Medical Fraud Assessment: Exposition to an Emerging Field
Authors: Ekin Tahir , Ieva Francesca , Ruggeri Fabrizio , Soyer Refik
Published: May 2018

Health care expenditures constitute a significant portion of governmental budgets. The percentage of fraud, waste and abuse within that spending has increased over years. This paper introduces the emerging area of statistical medical fraud assessment, which becomes crucial to handle the increasing size and complexity of the medical programmes. An overview of fraud types and detection is followed by the description of medical claims data. The utilisation of sampling, overpayment estimation and data mining methods in medical fraud assessment are presented. Recent unsupervised methods are illustrated with real world data. Finally, the paper introduces potential future research areas such as integrated decision making approaches and Bayesian methods and concludes with an overall discussion. The main goal of this exposition is to increase awareness about this important area among a broader audience of statisticians.
Unipolar voltage mapping criteria for right ventricular septum: Influence of the aortic root
Authors: Kelesidis Iosif , Desjardins Benoit , Muser Daniele , Santangeli Pasquale , Zado Erica S. , Marchlinski Francis E.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Unipolar voltage mapping through its wider “field of view” can identify substrate deeper to the endocardium on the right ventricular (RV) free wall and left ventricle. The reference value(s) for normal endocardial (ENDO) unipolar voltage (UNI) for the septal aspect of the right ventricle (RV) and the effect of the aortic root that is directly opposed to the posterior septal plane of the RV outflow tract (RVOT) have not been established.

Methods and results

We performed detailed (185 ± 70, range 127–342 points) RV ENDO UNI maps in 9 patients without structural heart disease; 6 had magnetic resonance (MR) imaging; 5 were males; the mean age was 49 ± 11 years. For MR analysis, the location of the aortic root was defined and its effect on unipolar voltage determined. The UNI voltage on posterior RVOT was lower (mean 6.56 ± 2.33 mV, 95% CI 6.08–7.05), compared to the rest of the septal aspect of RV (mean 8.33 ± 2.34 mV, P < 0.001, 95% CI 7.84–8.84). MR analysis confirmed that the lowest voltage region was opposite to MR‐defined aortic root. Using a cutoff for UNI abnormality of 6.0 mV for the posterior aspect of the RVOT opposite to the aortic root and 7.5 mV for the rest of the septal aspect of the RV, there was no confluent area of unipolar abnormality in any patient.

Conclusion

We defined normal ENDO UNI cutoffs as 7.5 mV for the septal aspect of the RV with adjustment to 6.0 mV over the posterior RVOT opposite to the aortic root.
The miR‐3127‐5p/p‐STAT3 axis up‐regulates PD‐L1 inducing chemoresistance in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Tang Dongfang , Zhao Dandan , Wu Yun , Yao Ruyong , Zhou Lin , Lu Liming , Gao Wen , Sun Yifeng
Published: May 2018

It is less known about miRNA3127‐5p induced up‐regulation of PD‐L1, immune escape and drug resistance caused by increased PD‐L1 in lung cancer. In this study, lentivirus was transduced into lung cancer cells, and quantitative PCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression of PD‐L1. Then immunofluorescence assay was applied to detect autophagy, finally we explored the relationship between PD‐L1 expressions and chemoresistance in patients. As a result, we found that microRNA‐3127‐5p promotes pSTAT3 to induce the expression of PD‐L1; microRNA‐3127‐5p promotes STAT3 phosphorylation through suppressing autophagy, and autophagy could retaine pSTAT3 into the nucleus in miRNA‐3127‐5p knocked cells, and immune escape induced by elevated level of PD‐L1 results in chemoresistance of lung cancer. In conclusion, microRNA‐3127‐5p induces PD‐L1 elevation through regulating pSTAT3 expression. We also demonstrate that immune escape induced by PD‐L1 can be dismissed by corresponding monoclonal antibody.
Receptor‐like protein kinases: Key regulators controlling root hair development in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wei Zhuoyun , Li Jia
Published: May 2018

Root hairs are tubular outgrowths specifically differentiated from epidermal cells in a differentiation zone. The formation of root hairs greatly increases the surface area of a root and maximizes its ability to absorb water and inorganic nutrients essential for plant growth and development. Root hair development is strictly regulated by intracellular and intercellular signal communications. Cell surface‐localized receptor‐like protein kinases (RLKs) have been shown to be important components in these cellular processes. In this review, the functions of a number of key RLKs in regulating Arabidopsis root hair development are discussed, especially those involved in root epidermal cell fate determination and root hair tip growth.
Uncertainty, Financial Frictions, and Nominal Rigidities: A Quantitative Investigation
Authors: CESA‐BIANCHI AMBROGIO , FERNANDEZ‐CORUGEDO EMILIO
Published: May 2018

Are uncertainty shocks a major source of business cycle fluctuations? This paper studies the effect of a mean preserving shock to the variance of aggregate total factor productivity (macro‐uncertainty) and to the dispersion of entrepreneurs' idiosyncratic productivity (micro‐uncertainty) in a financial accelerator dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with sticky prices. It explores the different mechanisms through which uncertainty shocks are propagated and amplified. The time‐series properties of macro‐ and micro‐uncertainty are estimated using U.S. aggregate and firm‐level data, respectively. While surprise increases in micro‐uncertainty have a larger impact on total output than macro‐uncertainty, these can only account for a small (but nontrivial) share of output volatility.
Local dynamic variation of lianas along topography maintains unchanging abundance at the landscape scale in central Amazonia
Authors: Gerolamo Caian Souza , Nogueira Anselmo , Costa Flavia Regina Capellotto , de Castilho Carolina V. , Angyalossy Veronica
Published: May 2018

Question

Have liana density and biomass increased in central Amazonia over the last 10 years? Can a spatially explicit consideration of liana mortality and recruitment rates across hydro‐edaphic and tree turnover gradients at the landscape scale explain changes in liana density and biomass?

Location

Ducke Forest Reserve, 26 km north of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil.

Methods

Data were collected on 30–1 ha permanent plots in a central Amazonia undisturbed old‐growth rain forest 10 years after the first census. We measured lianas at 1.3 cm above their rooting point, with a diameter (D) ≥ 5 cm and subsampled lianas ≥1 cm diameter in 0.25 ha per plot. We estimated above‐ground density and biomass changes, mortality rate, recruitment and diameter increase. Soil cations and available P were reduced to two dimensions with PCA and the first axis used as the descriptor of soil fertility. Height above the nearest drainage, a proxy for water availability, tree turnover (D ≥ 10 cm) and soil fertility were used as predictors of liana dynamics.

Results

No significant change in liana density and biomass, averaged over the 30‐km2 landscape, was observed over the last 10 years. In 2014, liana density was generally higher in more fertile soils, and it increased in areas closer to the water table and with higher tree turnover in the valleys. This pattern resulted from the higher liana recruitment rates in valley plots closer to the water table. Liana mortality rates were uniform across plots, similar among the diameter classes and, on average, higher than recruitment.

Conclusion

We did not find any evidence that liana density and biomass have been increasing in this Neotropical site over the last 10 years. These findings suggest that the current knowledge on liana increase trends in the Neotropics should be reviewed if supported by further tropical studies.
Oral Administration of Hot‐water Extract of Tropical Brown Seaweed, Sargassum cristaefolium, to Enhance Immune Response, Stress Tolerance, and Resistance of White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, to Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Sudaryono Agung , Chilmawati Diana , Susilowati Titik
Published: May 2018

The efficacy of hot‐water extract of tropical brown seaweed, Sargassum cristaefolium (SCE), supplemented in diets on immune response, stress tolerance, and disease resistance of Litopenaeus vannamei to Vibrio parahaemolyticus was evaluated. Shrimp were fed diets containing graded levels of SCE (0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg). The results showed that shrimp fed all diets containing SCE had significantly higher (P < 0.05) immune response in total hemocyte count (THC), differential hemocyte count (granular and hyaline cells), and phagocytic activity than those of shrimp fed the control diet. Similarly, in low dissolved oxygen stress tolerance test and the challenge test with V. parahaemolyticus, survival rates of shrimp fed all diets containing SCE were significantly higher (P < 0.05) (83–93% in stress test and 27–47% in challenge test) than those of shrimp fed the control diet (77 and 3.3%, respectively). These results suggest that oral administration of SCE at 500 and 750 mg/kg can be effectively used to enhance immune response, stress tolerance, and resistance of white shrimp, L. vannamei, against V. parahaemolyticus infection. These findings also confirm that using dietary SCE as immunostimulant is effective at increasing the nonspecific immune system in penaeid shrimp, L. vannamei.
Participants’ experiences of music, mindful music, and audiobook listening interventions for people recovering from stroke
Authors: Baylan Satu , McGinlay Meigan , MacDonald Maxine , Easto Jake , Cullen Breda , Haig Caroline , Mercer Stewart W. , Murray Heather , Quinn Terence J. , Stott David , Broomfield Niall M. , Stiles Ciara , Evans Jonathan J.
Published: May 2018

Existing research evidence suggests that both music listening and mindfulness interventions may have beneficial effects on mood and cognition poststroke. This mixed‐methods study, nested within a pilot randomized controlled trial investigating the feasibility and acceptability of combining music listening and brief mindfulness training poststroke, explored study participants’ experiences of engaging in the interventions. Fifty‐six stroke survivors who were randomized to receive an 8‐week intervention of mindful music listening (n = 15), music listening (n = 21), or audiobook listening (n = 20, control) using self‐selected material participated in a postintervention individual semistructured interview with a researcher not involved in their intervention delivery. Interview questions focused on affective, cognitive, and physical experiences. Data were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Across groups, listening was associated with positive distraction from thoughts and worries. Mindful music listening was most strongly associated with relaxation and concentration, improved attentional control, and emotion regulation, as well as enjoyment. Music listening was most strongly associated with increased activity, memory reminiscence, and improved mood. In addition, participants provided valuable feedback on intervention feasibility and acceptability. The findings suggest that the interventions were feasible and enjoyable for people recovering from stroke.
The effects of drumming on working memory in older adults
Authors: Degé Franziska , Kerkovius Katharina
Published: May 2018

Our study investigated the effect of a music training program on working memory (verbal memory, visual memory, and as a part of central executive processing working memory) in older adults. The experimental group was musically trained (drumming and singing), whereas one control group received a literature training program and a second control group was untrained. We randomly assigned 24 participants (all females; M = 77 years and 3 months) to the music group, the literature group, and the untrained group. The training groups were trained for 15 weeks. The three groups did not differ significantly in age, socioeconomic status, music education, musical aptitude, cognitive abilities, or depressive symptoms. We did not find differences in the music group in central executive function. However, we found a potential effect of music training on verbal memory and an impact of music training on visual memory. Musically trained participants remembered more words from a word list than both control groups, and they were able to remember more symbol sequences correctly than the control groups. Our findings show a possible effect of music training on verbal and visual memory in older people.
Molecular cloning of glutathione peroxidase gene of Antarctic ice microalga Chlamydomonas sp. ICE‐L and its expression changes under temperature and salinity stress
Authors: Wang Jin‐Hui , Ding Yu , Tang Xiao‐Chen , Wang Quan‐Fu
Published: May 2018

A complete open reading frame (ORF) encoding a glutathione peroxidase (ICE‐LGPx) was determined from Antarctic Chlamydomonas sp. ICE‐L by the molecular biological methods. The transcriptional expression patterns of ICE‐LGPx under different salinity and temperature stresses were determined by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and the activities of ICE‐LGPx were assayed under salinity stress as well. The full‐length cDNA sequence of ICE‐LGPx mRNA was 1956 bp including an ORF of 765 bp. Molecular structure analysis revealed that ICE‐LGPx was a selenium‐dependent glutathione peroxidase (Se‐GPx) containing a form‐2 SECIS (SelenoCysteine Insertion Sequence) element. Phylogenetic analysis showed that ICE‐LGPx displayed parallel evolution with those of Volvox carteri, Chlorella variabilis, Micromonas sp. RCC299 and Micromonas pusilla. The expression analysis results indicated that transcription of ICE‐LGPx was induced by the changes of the salinity and temperature. The change tendency of enzyme activities was similar to that of ICE‐LGPx mRNA level. Time‐ and dose‐dependent effects were observed in the salinity treatments and time‐dependent effects were found in the temperature treatments as well. These results suggested that ICE‐LGPx might play an important role in the acclimatization of Chlamydomonas sp. ICE‐L to salt and low temperature stresses. Furthermore, the results of this investigation may help to clarify the acclimatization and stress response mechanisms of Antarctic ice alga.
Boosting tourism's contribution to growth and development: Analysis of the evidence
Authors: Banerjee Onil , Cicowiez Martín , Morris Emily J. , Moreda Adela
Published: May 2018

The tourism sector's contribution to economic development depends upon complex and dynamic socioeconomic, environmental, and institutional factors. Policymakers require objective evidence to base decisions on which public policies or investments to pursue. In this paper we develop an economy‐wide approach to assessing public investments in tourism. The approach is powerful in that it considers all inter‐sectoral linkages that are critical for tourism‐sector analysis. This framework is linked to a microsimulation module that enables estimation of household‐level and destination‐specific impacts and the distribution of benefits. To illustrate the framework and the insights it can generate, we apply it to a public investment in Belize's Cayo District. Our findings show that the overall level of economic activity increases while an appreciation of the real regional exchange rate results in slower growth in traditional nontourism exports. Greater availability of capital and labor to meet increased demand would reduce this effect. The investment results in a reduction in the poverty headcount on the order of 0.7 percentage points, though there is a small increase in inequality that is a function of the skill requirements of the new positions created as a result of the investment.
Use of charcoal hemoperfusion and hemodialysis in the treatment of methotrexate toxicosis in a dog
Authors: Pardo Mariana , Lanaux Travis , Davy Rachel , Bandt Carsten
Published: May 2018

Objective

To describe the successful use of charcoal hemoperfusion (HP) and hemodialysis (HD) in a dog in the treatment of methotrexate (MTX) toxicosis.

Case Summary

An American Pit Bull Terrier accidentally ingested 56.8 mg/m2 of MTX. The patient's initial serum MTX concentration was 0.11 μmol/L. At this dosage, myelosuppression and gastrointestinal epithelial necrosis have been reported. Charcoal HP and HD in series were used to enhance elimination of MTX. Serial serum samples were obtained during the session at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 minutes and 12 hours after the session. These were later analyzed for MTX concentrations. Clearance of MTX was 73% and extraction ratio was 63% within the first 30 minutes of HP/HD. A 3‐hour session eliminated all detectable traces of MTX. The dog tolerated the session well and did not develop any clinical signs of MTX toxicosis.

New or Unique Information Provided

HP and HD together were highly effective in enhancing elimination of MTX from this patient. The prompt use of extracorporeal techniques decreased toxic concentrations of MTX to safer values, which prevented myelosuppression and gastrointestinal injury. HP and HD in conjunction or in place of traditional therapy may be a viable option for the treatment of acute toxic exposures to MTX.
The Opinions of Teachers About the Innovation Level of Their Schools
Authors: Aslan Hüseyin , Kesik Fatma , Elma Cevat
Published: May 2018

This study aims to determine the opinions of teachers about the innovation level of their schools. The sample of this research includes 471 teachers working in primary and secondary schools in Sinop, a city in Turkey. “Innovative School Scale” developed by Aslan and Kesik (2017) was used in order to collect data in this study. Percentage, frequency, mean, standard deviation, T-test and one-way ANOVA were performed to determine teachers' opinions about the innovation level of their schools according to the demographic variables. The findings show that the opinions of teachers about the innovation level of their schools are quite high with a level of “often” in the dimensions of innovative atmosphere, administrative support and the overall scale and with a level of “sometimes” in the organizational impediments. While the teachers’ opinions indicate no significant differences regarding their genders, they show significant differences regarding their subject areas, years of teaching experience and teaching level of school. According to findings, branch teachers, teachers working in secondary schools and teachers having 21 or more years of teaching experience were found to have a higher level of opinions about the innovation level of their schools. The findings and suggestions obtained by the results are expected to contribute to the discussions and literature about increasing innovation level of schools.
From ALE to ALF gravitational instantons
Authors: Auvray Hugues
Published: May 2018

In this article, we give an analytic construction of ALF hyperkähler metrics onsmooth deformationsof the Kleinian singularity$\mathbb{C}^{2}/{\mathcal{D}}_{k}$, with${\mathcal{D}}_{k}$the binary dihedral group of order$4k$,$k\geqslant 2$. More precisely, we start from the ALE hyperkähler metrics constructed on these spaces by Kronheimer, and use analytic methods, e.g. resolution of a Monge–Ampère equation, to produce ALF hyperkähler metrics with the same associated Kähler classes.
Translating EU renewable energy policy for insular energy systems: Reunion Island's quest for energy autonomy
Authors: Sawatzky Matthew , Albrecht Moritz
Published: May 2018

Recognition of the negative impacts of climate change has led to agreement on the need to decarbonise energy systems through the employment of renewable energy. With many national and transnational policies in place, the options available to insular energy systems (IES) differ from those of interconnected areas due to fragility in their production and distribution networks. Based on the concepts of policy mobility and translation, this study examines the interplay of EU renewable energy policy and insular governance processes aimed at achieving energy autonomy through renewable energy development. Reunion Island, a French Overseas Department and Region, is used as a case study to examine local energy governance processes, aspects that shape regional translation of national and EU policy, and the potential effects that create structures and pathways of energy transition. The study shows that Reunion Island’s regional Energy Governance Committee has significant application potential as a governance tool in other IES and small islands within the EU, but that renewable energy development is restricted due to national policy measures and path dependent governance structural constraints.
Say ‘Yes!’ to peer review: Open Access publishing and the need for mutual aid in academia
Authors: Springer Simon , Houssay-Holzschuch Myriam , Villegas Claudia , Gahman Levi
Published: May 2018

Scholars are increasingly declining to offer their services in the peer review process. There are myriad reasons for this refusal, most notably the ever-increasing pressure placed on academics to publish within the neoliberal university. Yet if you are publishing yourself then you necessarily expect someone else to review your work, which begs the question as to why this service is not being reciprocated. There is something to be said about withholding one’s labour when journals are under corporate control, but when it comes to Open Access journals such denial is effectively unacceptable. Make time for it, as others have made time for you. As editors of the independent, Open Access, non-corporate journal ACME: An International Journal for Critical Geographies, we reflect on the struggles facing our daily operations, where scholars declining to participate in peer review is the biggest obstacle we face. We argue that peer review should be considered as a form of mutual aid, which is rooted in an ethics of cooperation. The system only works if you say ‘Yes’!
English: lingua franca or disenfranchising?
Authors: Fregonese Sara
Published: May 2018

Conceiving academic publishing as a long-term process that often includes oral communication and knowledge exchange at academic conferences, this commentary offers a critical take on English as lingua franca. Contrarily to the historical use of lingua franca as a simplified system of transnational communication that facilitates the pragmatics of economic and cultural exchange, academic English is instead used vernacularly and becomes an excluding barrier. In the writing and peer review stages of publishing, the linguistic positionality of both authors and peer reviewers thus needs more reflection in order for academic English not to become once again part of a disenfranchising process.
Preparation and characterization of Al2O3 film deposited by RF sputtering and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition
Authors: Singh Prashant , Jha Rajesh Kumar , Singh Rajat Kumar , Singh Babu Ram
Published: May 2018

In this paper, the authors have investigated the structural and electrical properties of thin film of Al2O3 deposited by radio-frequency sputtering and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) technique. Different deposition and process parameters for the sputtered and PEALD Al2O3 films were chosen to investigate their effect on the structural and electrical characteristics of the film. X-ray diffraction result shows the dominant peak of Al2O3 in both the cases at 2θ = 56° indicating (312) film orientation. Multiple angle analysis of sputtered and PEALD Al2O3 film shows a refractive index in the range of 1.70–1.74 and 1.65–1.69, respectively. Electrical characteristics indicate that the device fabricated by PEALD and annealed at 425 °C shows the positive flatband voltage of 3.5 V and improved leakage behavior as compared to the film deposited by sputtering.
Design and optimization of piezoelectric unimorph beams with distributed excitation
Authors: Pillai Minu A. , Ebenezer D. D. , Deenadayalan Ezhilarasi
Published: May 2018

A method is presented to design an optimal unimorph beam that flexes and generates voltage in response to a distributed load acting over its length using an analytical model. The objective is to design a beam that resonates at a specified frequency at which there is a peak in the excitation. The associated open-circuit voltage sensitivity and gain bandwidth product are functions to be maximized. For specific boundary conditions and pairs of materials, the dimensional ratio of the thickness of the piezoelectric layer to the square of the length of the beam is chosen such that the beam resonates at the specified frequency. The two optimum values of the dimensionless ratio of the thicknesses of the elastic and piezoelectric layers associated with the maximum values of the two functions of interest are determined through a simple one-dimensional search. Figures of merit and numerical results are used to show the effect of boundary conditions and properties of materials on the functions of interest. All beams with the optimum ratio of thicknesses are equally good and the dimensions of a beam for a specific application are to be chosen by considering principles of design for manufacture and the external electronic circuit.
Development of a model to predict the likelihood of complaints due to assorted tone-in-noise combinations
Authors: Lee Joonhee , Wang Lily M.
Published: May 2018

This paper develops a model to predict if listeners would be likely to complain due to annoyance when exposed to a certain noise signal with a prominent tone, such as those commonly produced by heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. Twenty participants completed digit span tasks while exposed in a controlled lab to noise signals with differing levels of tones, ranging from 125 to 1000 Hz, and overall loudness. After completing the digit span tasks under each noise signal, from which task accuracy and speed of completion were captured, subjects were asked to rate level of annoyance and indicate the likelihood of complaining about the noise. Results show that greater tonality in noise has statistically significant effects on task performance by increasing the time it takes for participants to complete the digit span task; no statistically significant effects were found on task accuracy. A logistic regression model was developed to relate the subjective annoyance responses to two noise metrics, the stationary Loudness and Tonal Audibility, selected for the model due to high correlations with annoyance responses. The percentage of complaints model showed better performance and reliability over the percentage of highly annoyed or annoyed.
Molecular orbital imprint in laser-driven electron recollision
Authors: Schell Felix , Bredtmann Timm , Schulz Claus Peter , Patchkovskii Serguei , Vrakking Marc J. J. , Mikosch Jochen
Published: May 2018

In laser-induced electron recollision, the returning wave packet retains structural information on its initial orbital.
Ultralong room temperature phosphorescence from amorphous organic materials toward confidential information encryption and decryption
Authors: Su Yan , Phua Soo Zeng Fiona , Li Youbing , Zhou Xianju , Jana Deblin , Liu Guofeng , Lim Wei Qi , Ong Wee Kong , Yang Chaolong , Zhao Yanli
Published: May 2018

Ultralong room temperature phosphorescence is achieved from amorphous organic materials toward information encryption.
The Continued Value of Disk Diffusion for Assessing Antimicrobial Susceptibility in Clinical Laboratories: Report from the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute Methods Development and Standardization Working Group
Authors: Humphries Romney M. , Kircher Susan , Ferrell Andrea , Krause Kevin M. , Malherbe Rianna , Hsiung Andre , Burnham Carey-Ann D.
Published: May 2018

Expedited pathways to antimicrobial agent approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have led to increased delays between drug approval and the availability of FDA-cleared antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) devices.
Investigating the association of alerts from a national mortality surveillance system with subsequent hospital mortality in England: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Cecil Elizabeth , Bottle Alex , Esmail Aneez , Wilkinson Samantha , Vincent Charles , Aylin Paul P
Published: May 2018

Objective

To investigate the association between alerts from a national hospital mortality surveillance system and subsequent trends in relative risk of mortality.

Background

There is increasing interest in performance monitoring in the NHS. Since 2007, Imperial College London has generated monthly mortality alerts, based on statistical process control charts and using routinely collected hospital administrative data, for all English acute NHS hospital trusts. The impact of this system has not yet been studied.

Methods

We investigated alerts sent to Acute National Health Service hospital trusts in England in 2011–2013. We examined risk-adjusted mortality (relative risk) for all monitored diagnosis and procedure groups at a hospital trust level for 12 months prior to an alert and 23 months post alert. We used an interrupted time series design with a 9-month lag to estimate a trend prior to a mortality alert and the change in trend after, using generalised estimating equations.

Results

On average there was a 5% monthly increase in relative risk of mortality during the 12 months prior to an alert (95% CI 4% to 5%). Mortality risk fell, on average by 61% (95% CI 56% to 65%), during the 9-month period immediately following an alert, then levelled to a slow decline, reaching on average the level of expected mortality within 18 months of the alert.

Conclusions

Our results suggest an association between an alert notification and a reduction in the risk of mortality, although with less lag time than expected. It is difficult to determine any causal association. A proportion of alerts may be triggered by random variation alone and subsequent falls could simply reflect regression to the mean. Findings could also indicate that some hospitals are monitoring their own mortality statistics or other performance information, taking action prior to alert notification.
Hibiscus sabdariffa(roselle) polyphenol-rich extract averts cardiac functional and structural abnormalities in type 1 diabetic rats
Authors: Mohammed Yusof Nur Liyana , Zainalabidin Satirah , Mohd Fauzi Norsyahida , Budin Siti Balkis
Published: May 2018

Diabetes mellitus is often associated with cardiac functional and structural alteration, an initial event leading to cardiovascular complications. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) has been widely proven as an antioxidant and recently has incited research interest for its potential in treating cardiovascular disease. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the cardioprotective effects of H. sabdariffa (roselle) polyphenol-rich extract (HPE) in type-1-induced diabetic rats. Twenty-four male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into 4 groups (n = 6/group): nondiabetic, diabetic alone (DM), diabetic supplemented with HPE (DM+HPE), and diabetic supplemented with metformin. Type-1 diabetes was induced with streptozotocin (55 mg/kg intraperitoneally). Rats were forced-fed with HPE (100 mg/kg) and metformin (150 mg/kg) daily for 8 weeks. Results showed that HPE supplementation improved hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia significantly (p < 0.05) in the DM+HPE compared with the DM group. HPE supplementation attenuated cardiac oxidative damage in the DM group, indicated by low malondialdehyde and advanced oxidation protein product. As for the antioxidant status, HPE significantly (p < 0.05) increased glutathione level, as well as catalase and superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 activities. These findings correlate with cardiac function, whereby left ventricle developed pressure in DM+HPE (79.13 ± 3.08 mm Hg) was higher significantly compared with DM (45.84 ± 1.65 mm Hg). Coronary flow of DM+HPE (17.43 ± 0.62 mL/min) was also greater compared with DM (13.02 ± 0.6 mL/min), showing that HPE supplementation improved cardiac contractility and relaxation rate significantly (p < 0.05). Histological analysis showed a marked decrease in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis in DM+HPE compared with the DM group. Ultrastructural changes and impairment of mitochondria induced by diabetes were minimized by HPE supplementation. Collectively, these findings suggest that HPE is a potential cardioprotective agent in a diabetic setting through its hypoglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemia, and antioxidant properties.