bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context and Content toward Consensus in Public Mediation
Authors: Itten Anatol
Published: July 2017

The mediation of public conflicts is a complex interactive, social‐psychological, and often politicized process. Because of their complexity, the literature on how to effectively mediate these conflicts remains imprecise. In this study, I have focused on the sequencing of the overall mediation process and the interplay between initial conditions, mediation styles, and process dynamics to explore predictable patterns from early stage to deadline negotiations. By undertaking a two‐step qualitative comparison of twenty‐three public mediation cases, I have attempted to identify “equifinal” pathways — that is, a variety of different ways in which the same outcome can be achieved — that can lead to mediation success (or failure). My analysis reveals that both inclusivity (i.e., including all relevant participants in the process) and mediation institutionalization (i.e., the mediation process is sufficiently embedded in the political and administrative system) correlate to greater mediation effectiveness. Furthermore, this study also suggests that such key elements of deliberative negotiations as recognition and argumentation are essential for reaching a consensual agreement.
A randomized placebo‐controlled trial on the effects of Menthacarin, a proprietary peppermint‐ and caraway‐oil‐preparation, on symptoms and quality of life in patients with functional dyspepsia
Authors: Rich G. , Shah A. , Koloski N. , Funk P. , Stracke B. , Köhler S. , Holtmann G.
Published: July 2017

Background

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a very common condition affecting more than 10% of the population. While there is no cure, a few drugs have been found to be effective for the relief of symptoms, although most are only effective in a subgroup of patients. We assess and compare the efficacy of a fixed peppermint/caraway‐oil‐combination (Menthacarin) on symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in patients with FD symptoms consistent with epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) and postprandial distress syndrome (PDS).

Methods

In a prospective, double‐blind, multicenter trial, 114 outpatients with chronic or recurrent FD were randomized and treated for 4 weeks with the proprietary peppermint‐ and caraway‐oil‐preparation Menthacarin or placebo (2×1 capsule/day). Improvement of abdominal pain and discomfort were used as co‐primary efficacy measures (scores measured with the validated Nepean Dyspepsia Index).

Key Results

After 2 and 4 weeks, active treatment was superior to placebo in alleviating symptoms consistent with PDS and EPS (P all <.001). After 4 weeks of treatment, pain and discomfort scores improved by 7.6±4.8 and 3.6±2.5 points (full analysis set; mean±SD) for Menthacarin and by 3.4±4.3 and 1.3±2.1 points for placebo, respectively. All secondary efficacy measures showed advantages for Menthacarin.

Conclusions & Inferences

Menthacarin is an effective therapy for the relief of pain and discomfort and improvement of disease‐specific QoL in patients with FD and significantly improves symptoms consistent with EPS and PDS.
Mucosal glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) responses are mediated by calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in the mouse colon and both peptide responses are area‐specific
Authors: Tough I.R. , Moodaley R. , Cox H.M.
Published: July 2017

Background

Glucagon‐like peptide (GLP)‐1 is an incretin hormone and its mimetics are proven antidiabetic and antiobesity drugs. GLP‐1 exerts antimotility and mucosal proliferative activities but its epithelial ion transport effects are uncharacterized and these may contribute to the gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance, i.e., diarrhea experienced with some GLP‐1 mimetics. Our aim was to establish GLP‐1 agonist mechanisms and identify potential mucosal mediator(s) in the colonic tissue from C57BL/6J mice.

Methods

A tissue survey of GLP‐1 responses (using exendin 4, Ex4) and α‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide (αCGRP) was undertaken, dividing the mouse colon into eight adjacent mucosal‐submucosal preparations. Each preparation was voltage‐clamped and changes in short‐circuit current (Isc) measured. The involvement of submucosal neurons in GLP‐1 agonism was tested using Ex(9‐39) and tetrodotoxin (TTX), and CGRP receptors were blocked with BIBN4094.

Key Results

Ex4 responses along the length of the colon were inhibited by the GLP‐1 antagonist, Ex(9‐39) or TTX, indicating neural mediation in all colonic regions. In the ascending colon, Ex4 increased Isc levels that were abolished by 10 nM BIBN4096, while in the descending colon it reduced Isc levels that were again BIBN4096‐sensitive, but at 1 μM. The latter αCGRP response was dependent on epithelial Cl− conductance and Na+/K+‐ATPase, and was partially (~25%) peptide YY‐mediated, but was not nitrergic, somatostatin sst2, or α2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated.

Conclusions and Inferences

GLP‐1 modulates epithelial ion transport indirectly by activating CGRP‐containing submucosal enteric neurons in the mouse colon. This GLP‐1‐CGRP response was area‐specific and could potentially contribute to the diarrheal side effect of certain GLP‐1R therapeutics.
Relationships between gastric slow wave frequency, velocity, and extracellular amplitude studied by a joint experimental‐theoretical approach
Authors: Wang T. H.‐H. , Du P. , Angeli T. R. , Paskaranandavadivel N. , Erickson J. C. , Abell T. L. , Cheng L. K. , O'Grady G.
Published: July 2017

Background

Gastric slow wave dysrhythmias are accompanied by deviations in frequency, velocity, and extracellular amplitude, but the inherent association between these parameters in normal activity still requires clarification. This study quantified these associations using a joint experimental‐theoretical approach.

Methods

Gastric pacing was conducted in pigs with simultaneous high‐resolution slow wave mapping (32‐256 electrodes; 4‐7.6 mm spacing). Relationships between period, velocity, and amplitude were quantified and correlated for each wavefront. Human data from two existing mapping control cohorts were analyzed to extract and correlate these same parameters. A validated biophysically based ICC model was also applied in silico to quantify velocity‐period relationships during entrainment simulations and velocity‐amplitude relationships from membrane potential equations.

Key Results

Porcine pacing studies identified positive correlations for velocity‐period (0.13 mm s−1 per 1 s, r2=.63, P<.001) and amplitude‐velocity (74 μV per 1 mm s−1, r2=.21, P=.002). In humans, positive correlations were also quantified for velocity‐period (corpus: 0.11 mm s−1 per 1 s, r2=.16, P<.001; antrum: 0.23 mm s−1 per 1 s, r2=.55; P<.001), and amplitude‐velocity (94 μV per 1 mm s−1, r2=.56; P<.001). Entrainment simulations matched the experimental velocity‐period relationships and demonstrated dependence on the slow wave recovery phase. Simulated membrane potential relationships were close to these experimental results (100 μV per 1 mm s−1).

Conclusions and Inferences

These data quantify the relationships between slow wave frequency, velocity, and extracellular amplitude. The results from both human and porcine studies were in keeping with biophysical models, demonstrating concordance with ICC biophysics. These relationships are important in the regulation of gastric motility and will help to guide interpretations of dysrhythmias.
Ideological influences on governance and regulation: The comparative case of supreme courts
Authors: Weinshall Keren , Sommer Udi , Ritov Ya'acov
Published: July 2017

A key influence on governance and regulation is the ideology of individual decisionmakers. However, certain branches of government – such as courts – while wielding wide ranging regulatory powers, are expected to do so with no attitudinal influence. We posit a dynamic response model to investigate attitudinal behavior in different national courts. Our ideological scores are estimated based on probability models that formalize the assumption that judicial decisions consist of ideological, strategic, and jurisprudential components. The Dynamic Comparative Attitudinal Measure estimates the attitudinal decisionmaking on the institution as a whole. Additionally, we estimate Ideological Ideal Point Preference for individual justices. Empirical results with original data for political and religious rights rulings in the Supreme Courts of the United States, Canada, India, the Philippines, and Israel corroborate the measures' validity. Future studies can utilize Ideological Ideal Point Preference and the Dynamic Comparative Attitudinal Measure to cover additional courts, legal spheres, and time frames, and to estimate government deference.
Aculturación, transculturación, mestizaje: metáforas y espejos en la historiografía latinoamericana
Authors: Pérez-Brignoli Héctor
Published: July 2017

Se discuten los conceptos de aculturación y transculturación a partir de la obra de Fernando Ortiz, y se estudia su uso en la historiografía latinoamericana. Ambos conceptos se utilizan, por lo general, de forma intercambiable y los historiadores no se destacan mucho por su precisión conceptual
Derrida y el pensamiento amazónico (La bestia y el soberano / el jaguar y el chamán)
Authors: Duchesne Winter Juan
Published: July 2017

Se propone aquí leer la deconstrucción de la soberanía en el seminario de Jacques Derrida, La bestia y el soberano, a la luz del pensamiento amazónico, el cual sugiere que lo que vincula a la soberanía con la animalidad no es necesariamente una común exterioridad con respecto a la ley, sino capacidades compartidas por humanos y no-humanos que no son exteriores ni al lenguaje ni a la política. En los textos chamánicos suramericanos emerge la relación isonómica entre el jaguar y el chamán como expresión de una cosmopolítica en la cual se implican y se contienen mutuamente la soberanía y la libertad, lo humano y lo no-humano, la vida y la no-vida, la ley y su exterioridad.
Traducción y transculturación del romanticismo europeo en Esteban Echeverría
Authors: Schmidt-Welle Friedhelm
Published: July 2017

En este artículo se analizan los procesos de traducción cultural, apropiación y transculturación del Romanticismo Europeo —sobre todo del francés— en la ensayística de Esteban Echeverría. En sus textos, existe una relación íntima entre romanticismo, liberalismo y modernidad. El autor se apropia de ciertos elementos de lo romántico, como el concepto de la modernidad y los principios de la Revolución francesa, pero rechaza otros como la revolución estética, la formulación radical del sujeto moderno, la cultura popular como base de la cultura nacional, o la emancipación de las mujeres. La apropiación ecléctica del romanticismo no solamente sirve para autorizar la voz del letrado y su función social, sino también para legitimar el proyecto liberal de la independencia espiritual y cultural.
Repeatability of a Dislocation Spinal Cord Injury Model in a Rat—A High-Speed Biomechanical Analysis
Authors: Mattucci Stephen , Liu Jie , Fijal Paul , Tetzlaff Wolfram , Oxland Thomas R.
Published: July 2017

Dislocation is the most common, and severe, spinal cord injury (SCI) mechanism in humans, yet there are few preclinical models. While dislocation in the rat model has been shown to produce unique outcomes, like other closed column models it exhibits higher outcome variability. Refinement of the dislocation model will enhance the testing of neuroprotective strategies, further biomechanical understanding, and guide therapeutic decisions. The overall objective of this study is to improve biomechanical repeatability of a dislocation SCI model in the rat, through the following specific aims: (i) design new injury clamps that pivot and self-align to the vertebrae; (ii) measure intervertebral kinematics during injury using the existing and redesigned clamps; and (iii) compare relative motion at the vertebrae–clamp interface to determine which clamps provide the most rigid connection. Novel clamps that pivot and self-align were developed based on the quantitative rat vertebral anatomy. A dislocation injury was produced in 34 rats at C4/C5 using either the existing or redesigned clamps, and a high-speed X-ray device recorded the kinematics. Relative motion between the caudal clamp and C5 was significantly greater in the existing clamps compared to the redesigned clamps in dorsoventral translation and sagittal rotation. This study demonstrates that relative motions can be of magnitudes that likely affect injury outcomes. We recommend such biomechanical analyses be applied to other SCI models when repeatability is an issue. For this dislocation model, the results show the importance of using clamps that pivot and self-align to the vertebrae.
Data Check: Federal share of basic research hits new low
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: July 2017

Spike in drug company spending pushes government share below 50%.
Community Composition Determines Activity of Antibiotics against Multispecies Biofilms
Authors: Tavernier Sarah , Crabbé Aurélie , Hacioglu Mayram , Stuer Liesbeth , Henry Silke , Rigole Petra , Dhondt Inne , Coenye Tom
Published: July 2017

In young cystic fibrosis (CF) patients,
Staphylococcus aureus
is typically the most prevalent organism, while in adults,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is the major pathogen. More recently, it was observed that also
Streptococcus anginosus
plays an important role in exacerbations of respiratory symptoms. These species are often coisolated from CF lungs, yet little is known about whether antibiotic killing of one species is influenced by the presence of others. In the present study, we compared the activities of various antibiotics against
S. anginosus
,
S. aureus
, and
P. aeruginosa
when grown in monospecies biofilms with the activity observed in a multispecies biofilm. Our results show that differences in antibiotic activity against species grown in mono- and multispecies biofilms are species and antibiotic dependent. Fewer
S. anginosus
cells are killed by antibiotics that interfere with cell wall synthesis (amoxicillin plus sulbactam, cefepime, imipenem, meropenem, and vancomycin) in the presence of
S. aureus
and
P. aeruginosa
, while for ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and tobramycin, no difference was observed. In addition, we observed that the cell-free supernatant of
S. aureus
, but not that of
P. aeruginosa
biofilms, also caused this decrease in killing. Overall,
S. aureus
was more affected by antibiotic treatment in a multispecies biofilm, while for
P. aeruginosa
, no differences were observed between growth in mono- or multispecies biofilms. The results of the present study suggest that it is important to take the community composition into account when evaluating the effect of antimicrobial treatments against certain species in mixed biofilms.
Persistent Loss of Hepatitis B Virus Markers in Serum without Cellular Immunity by Combination of Peginterferon and Entecavir Therapy in Humanized Mice
Authors: Uchida Takuro , Imamura Michio , Hayes C. Nelson , Hiraga Nobuhiko , Kan Hiromi , Tsuge Masataka , Abe-Chayama Hiromi , Zhang Yizhou , Makokha Grace Naswa , Aikata Hiroshi , Miki Daiki , Ochi Hidenori , Ishida Yuji , Tateno Chise , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: July 2017

Nucleot(s)ide analogues and peginterferon (PEG-IFN) treatment are the only approved therapies for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, complete eradication of the virus, as indicated by persistent loss of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), is rare among treated patients. This is due to long-term persistence of the HBV genome in infected hepatocytes in the form of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). In this study, we investigated whether administration of a large dose of a nucleoside analogue in combination with PEG-IFN can achieve long-term loss of HBsAg in human hepatocyte chimeric mice. Mice were treated with a high dose of entecavir and/or PEG-IFN for 6 weeks. High-dose combination therapy with both drugs resulted in persistently negative HBV DNA in serum. Although small amounts of HBV DNA and cccDNA (0.1 and 0.01 copy/cell, respectively) remained in the mouse livers, some of the mice remained persistently negative for serum HBV DNA at 13 weeks after cessation of the therapy. Serum HBsAg and hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) continued to decrease and eventually became negative at 12 weeks after cessation of the therapy. Analysis of the HBV genome in treated mice showed accumulation of G-to-A hypermutation and CpG III island methylation. Persistent loss of serum HBV DNA and loss of HBV markers by high-dose entecavir and PEG-IFN combination treatment in chimeric mice suggests that control of HBV can be achieved even in the absence of a cellular immune response.
MDR1 and BCRP Transporter-Mediated Drug-Drug Interaction between Rilpivirine and Abacavir and Effect on Intestinal Absorption
Authors: Reznicek Josef , Ceckova Martina , Ptackova Zuzana , Martinec Ondrej , Tupova Lenka , Cerveny Lukas , Staud Frantisek
Published: July 2017

Rilpivirine (TMC278) is a highly potent nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) representing an effective component of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in the treatment of HIV-positive patients. Many antiretroviral drugs commonly used in cART are substrates of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) and/or solute carrier (SLC) drug transporters and, therefore, are prone to pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions (DDIs). The aim of our study was to evaluate rilpivirine interactions with abacavir and lamivudine on selected ABC and SLC transporters
in vitro
and assess its importance for pharmacokinetics
in vivo
. Using accumulation assays in MDCK cells overexpressing selected ABC or SLC drug transporters, we revealed rilpivirine as a potent inhibitor of MDR1 and BCRP, but not MRP2, OCT1, OCT2, or MATE1. Subsequent transport experiments across monolayers of MDCKII-MDR1, MDCKII-BCRP, and Caco-2 cells demonstrated that rilpivirine inhibits MDR1- and BCRP-mediated efflux of abacavir and increases its transmembrane transport.
In vivo
experiments in male Wistar rats confirmed inhibition of MDR1/BCRP in the small intestine, leading to a significant increase in oral bioavailability of abacavir. In conclusion, rilpivirine inhibits MDR1 and BCRP transporters and may affect pharmacokinetic behavior of concomitantly administered substrates of these transporters, such as abacavir.
Adverse Effects and Choice between the Injectable Agents Amikacin and Capreomycin in Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Arnold Amber , Cooke Graham S. , Kon Onn Min , Dedicoat Martin , Lipman Marc , Loyse Angela , Chis Ster Irina , Harrison Thomas S.
Published: July 2017

The prolonged use of injectable agents in a regimen for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is recommended by the World Health Organization, despite its association with ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. We undertook this study to look at the relative adverse effects of capreomycin and amikacin. We reviewed the case notes of 100 consecutive patients treated at four MDR-TB treatment centers in the United Kingdom. The median total duration of treatment with an injectable agent was 178 days (interquartile range [IQR], 109 to 192 days;
n
= 73) for those with MDR-TB, 179 days (IQR, 104 to 192 days;
n
= 12) for those with MDR-TB plus fluoroquinolone resistance, and 558 days (IQR, 324 to 735 days;
n
= 8) for those with extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). Injectable use was longer for those started with capreomycin (183 days; IQR, 123 to 197 days) than those started with amikacin (119 days; IQR, 83 to 177 days) (
P
= 0.002). Excluding patients with XDR-TB, 51 of 85 (60%) patients were treated with an injectable for over 6 months and 12 of 85 (14%) were treated with an injectable for over 8 months. Forty percent of all patients discontinued the injectable due to hearing loss. Fifty-five percent of patients experienced ototoxicity, which was 5 times (hazard ratio [HR], 5.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2 to 22.6;
P
= 0.03) more likely to occur in those started on amikacin than in those treated with capreomycin only. Amikacin was associated with less hypokalemia than capreomycin (odds ratio, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.11 to 0.72), with 5 of 37 (14%) patients stopping capreomycin due to recurrent electrolyte loss. There was no difference in the number of patients experiencing a rise in the creatinine level of >1.5 times the baseline level. Hearing loss is frequent in this cohort, though its incidence is significantly lower in those starting capreomycin, which should be given greater consideration as a first-line agent.
The Trophic Life Cycle Stage of the Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen Pneumocystis murina Hinders the Ability of Dendritic Cells To Stimulate CD4
+
T Cell Responses
Authors: Evans Heather M. , Simpson Andrew , Shen Shu , Stromberg Arnold J. , Pickett Carol L. , Garvy Beth A.
Published: July 2017

The life cycle of the opportunistic fungal pathogen
Pneumocystis murina
consists of a trophic stage and an ascus-like cystic stage. Infection with the cyst stage induces proinflammatory immune responses, while trophic forms suppress the cytokine response to multiple pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), including β-glucan. A targeted gene expression assay was used to evaluate the dendritic cell response following stimulation with trophic forms alone, with a normal mixture of trophic forms and cysts, or with β-glucan. We demonstrate that stimulation with trophic forms downregulated the expression of multiple genes normally associated with the response to infection, including genes encoding transcription factors. Trophic forms also suppressed the expression of genes related to antigen processing and presentation, including the gene encoding the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II transactivator, CIITA. Stimulation of dendritic cells with trophic forms, but not a mixture of trophic forms and cysts, reduced the expression of MHC class II and the costimulatory molecule CD40 on the surface of the cells. These defects in the expression of MHC class II and costimulatory molecules corresponded with a reduced capacity for trophic form-loaded dendritic cells to stimulate CD4
+
T cell proliferation and polarization. These data are consistent with the delayed innate and adaptive responses previously observed in immunocompetent mice inoculated with trophic forms compared to responses in mice inoculated with a mixture of trophic forms and cysts. We propose that trophic forms broadly inhibit the ability of dendritic cells to fulfill their role as antigen-presenting cells.
Overlapping Community Discovery Algorithm Based on Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Fen Linghu , Jian Jie , Chen Long
Published: July 2017

Overlapping community is a response to the real network structure in social networks and in real society in order to solve the problems such as the parameters of the existing overlapping community discovery algorithm being too large, excessive overlap and no guarantee of stability of multiple runs. In this paper, the method of calculating the node degree of membership was proposed, and an overlapping community discovery algorithm based on the local optimal expansion cohesion idea was designed. Firstly, the initial core community was constructed with the highest importance node and its neighbor nodes. Secondly, the core community was extended by node attribution degree until the termination condition of the algorithm was satisfied. Finally, the experimental results were compared with the existing algorithms. The experiments show that the result of the division by the improved algorithm has been significantly improved compared to the other algorithms, and the community structure after the division is more reasonable.
Haar wavelet method for solving nonlinear age-structured population models
Authors: Avazzadeh Zakieh , Heydari Mohammad
Published: July 2017

In this study, Haar wavelet method is implemented for solving the nonlinear age-structured population model which is the nonclassic type of partial differential equation associated with boundary integral equation. This paper develops the flexibility of Haar wavelet method for reduction of the partial differential equation with nonlocal boundary conditions to an algebraic system. In fact, the simple structure of piecewise orthogonal Haar basis functions which leads to sparse matrices causes the convergence and computational efficiency. Some illustrative results show the reliability and accuracy of the presented method.
Morphology pursuance in C20 fullerene molecular junction: ab initio implementation
Authors: Kaur Milanpreet , Sawhney Ravinder Singh , Engles Derick
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we implement the [Formula: see text] fullerene-based molecular junction formed with two different types of geometric electrodes employing Keldysh’s non-equilibrium Green’s function formalism combined with density functional theory. The geometric electrodes with a knife and flat edges are stringed to the fullerene molecule to determine the impact of morphology in the electrode–molecule interface region. We investigate the density of states, transmission spectrum, molecular orbitals, current and differential conductance characteristics at discrete bias voltages to get the insight about various transport phenomena in these morphed fullerene junctions. The results show that current and conduction are higher in magnitude in the [Formula: see text] fullerene when sandwiched between the pair of flat-edged electrodes. Thus, the flat-edged electrodes are acting as the supporting electrodes in the quantum conduction process, not overshadowing the role of molecule within a device configuration, unlike the knife-edged electrodes. Hence, the ideas and results pursued in this research paved another step in the field of “Geometronics”.
Coupled Spin-Torque Nano-Oscillator-Based Computation
Authors: Yogendra Karthik , Liyanagedera Chamika , Fan Deliang , Shim Yong , Roy Kaushik
Published: July 2017

In this article, we present a comprehensive study of four frequency locking mechanisms in Spin Torque Nano Oscillators (STNOs) and explore their suitability for a class of specialized computing applications. We implemented a physical STNO model based on Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert-Slonczewski equation and benchmarked the model to experimental data. Based on our simulations, we provide an in-depth analysis of how the “self-organizing” ability of coupled STNO array can be effectively used for computations that are unsuitable or inefficient in the von-Neumann computing domain. As a case study, we demonstrate the computing ability of coupled STNOs with two applications: edge detection of an image and associative computing for image recognition. We provide an analysis of the scaling trends of STNOs and the effectiveness of different frequency locking mechanisms with scaling in the presence of thermal noise. We also provide an in-depth analysis of the effect of variations on the four locking mechanisms to find the most robust one in the presence of variations.
Mixing computation with people
Authors: Snodgrass Richard T.
Published: July 2017

In this interview, we learn about five fascinating subjects: security in manufacturing, negotiating trust in the web, updating logical databases, differential privacy, and scientific computing (including its security issues). This is a confluence that has, at its roots, the thorny problems that arise when you mix computation with people. Some beautiful technical results, many originated by Marianne Winslett, now address those challenges, but some surprises crop up along the way.
Sustainability Transitions Research: Transforming Science and Practice for Societal Change
Authors: Loorbach Derk , Frantzeskaki Niki , Avelino Flor
Published: July 2017

The article describes the field of sustainability transitions research, which emerged in the past two decades in the context of a growing scientific and public interest in large-scale societal transformation toward sustainability. We describe how different scientific approaches and methodological positions explore diverse types of transitions and provide the basis for multiple theories and models for governance of sustainability transitions. We distinguish three perspectives in studying transitions: socio-technical, socio-institutional, and socio-ecological. Although the field as a whole is very heterogeneous, commonalities can be characterized in notions such as path dependencies, regimes, niches, experiments, and governance. These more generic concepts have been adopted within the analytical perspective of transitions, which has led three different types of approaches to dealing with agency in transitions: analytical, evaluative, and experimental. The field has by now produced a broad theoretical and empirical basis along with a variety of social transformation strategies and instruments, impacting disciplinary scientific fields as well as (policy) practice. In this article, we try to characterize the field by identifying its main perspectives, approaches and shared concepts, and its relevance to real-world sustainability problems and solutions.
Glycemic control after metabolic surgery: a Granger causality and graph analysis
Authors: Previti Elena , Salinari Serenella , Bertuzzi Alessandro , Capristo Esmeralda , Bornstein Stephan , Mingrone Geltrude
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the contribution of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) and incretin to insulin resistance and diabetes amelioration after malabsorptive metabolic surgery that induces steatorrhea. In fact, NEFA infusion reduces glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and high-fat diets predict diabetes development. Six healthy controls, 11 obese subjects, and 10 type 2 diabetic (T2D) subjects were studied before and 1 mo after biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). Twenty-four-hour plasma glucose, NEFA, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) time courses were obtained and analyzed by Granger causality and graph analyses. Insulin sensitivity and secretion were computed by the oral glucose minimal model. Before metabolic surgery, NEFA levels had the strongest influence on the other variables in both obese and T2D subjects. After surgery, GLP-1 and C-peptide levels controlled the system in obese and T2D subjects. Twenty-four-hour GIP levels were markedly reduced after BPD. Finally, not only did GLP-1 levels play a central role, but also insulin and C-peptide levels had a comparable relevance in the network of healthy controls. After BPD, insulin sensitivity was completely normalized in both obese and T2D individuals. Increased 24-h GLP-1 circulating levels positively influenced glucose homeostasis in both obese and T2D subjects who underwent a malabsorptive bariatric operation. In the latter, the reduction of plasma GIP levels also contributed to the improvement of glucose metabolism. It is possible that the combination of a pharmaceutical treatment reducing GIP and increasing GLP-1 plasma levels will contribute to better glycemic control in T2D. The application of Granger causality and graph analyses sheds new light on the pathophysiology of metabolic surgery.
Long-term rates of mitochondrial protein synthesis are increased in mouse skeletal muscle with high-fat feeding regardless of insulin-sensitizing treatment
Authors: Newsom Sean A. , Miller Benjamin F. , Hamilton Karyn L. , Ehrlicher Sarah E. , Stierwalt Harrison D. , Robinson Matthew M.
Published: July 2017

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis is regulated in part by insulin. The development of insulin resistance with diet-induced obesity may therefore contribute to impairments to protein synthesis and decreased mitochondrial respiration. Yet the impact of diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance on mitochondrial energetics is controversial, with reports varying from decreases to increases in mitochondrial respiration. We investigated the impact of changes in insulin sensitivity on long-term rates of mitochondrial protein synthesis as a mechanism for changes to mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle. Insulin resistance was induced in C57BL/6J mice using 4 wk of a high-fat compared with a low-fat diet. For 8 additional weeks, diets were enriched with pioglitazone to restore insulin sensitivity compared with nonenriched control low-fat or high-fat diets. Skeletal muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis was measured using deuterium oxide labeling during weeks 10–12. High-resolution respirometry was performed using palmitoyl-l-carnitine, glutamate+malate, and glutamate+malate+succinate as substrates for mitochondria isolated from quadriceps. Mitochondrial protein synthesis and palmitoyl- l-carnitine oxidation were increased in mice consuming a high-fat diet, regardless of differences in insulin sensitivity with pioglitazone treatment. There was no effect of diet or pioglitazone treatment on ADP-stimulated respiration or H2O2 emission using glutamate+malate or glutamate+malate+succinate. The results demonstrate no impairments to mitochondrial protein synthesis or respiration following induction of insulin resistance. Instead, mitochondrial protein synthesis was increased with a high-fat diet and may contribute to remodeling of the mitochondria to increase lipid oxidation capacity. Mitochondrial adaptations with a high-fat diet appear driven by nutrient availability, not intrinsic defects that contribute to insulin resistance.
Solution to Two‐Dimensional Steady Inverse Heat Transfer Problems with Interior Heat Source Based on the Conjugate Gradient Method
Authors: Wang Shoubin , Zhang Li , Sun Xiaogang , Jia Huangchao
Published: July 2017

The compound variable inverse problem which comprises boundary temperature distribution and surface convective heat conduction coefficient of two‐dimensional steady heat transfer system with inner heat source is studied in this paper applying the conjugate gradient method. The introduction of complex variable to solve the gradient matrix of the objective function obtains more precise inversion results. This paper applies boundary element method to solve the temperature calculation of discrete points in forward problems. The factors of measuring error and the number of measuring points zero error which impact the measurement result are discussed and compared with L‐MM method in inverse problems. Instance calculation and analysis prove that the method applied in this paper still has good effectiveness and accuracy even if measurement error exists and the boundary measurement points’ number is reduced. The comparison indicates that the influence of error on the inversion solution can be minimized effectively using this method.
Tolerance Analysis of Antenna Array Pattern and Array Synthesis in the Presence of Excitation Errors
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhao DanNi , Wang Qiong , Long ZhengBin , Shen Xiaofeng
Published: July 2017

This paper analyzes array pattern tolerance against excitation errors. The nonprobabilistic interval analysis algorithm is used for tolerance analysis of the nonideal uniform linear array in this work. Toward this purpose, corresponding interval models of the power pattern functions are established, respectively, with the consideration of the amplitude errors, phase errors, or both simultaneously, in antenna arrays. The tolerance for the amplitude-phase error of the main function parameters including the beamwidth, sidelobe level, and the directivity is simulated by computer according to the indicators and the actual requirements. Accordingly, the worst admissible performance of an array can be evaluated, which may provide theoretical reference for optimal antenna array design. As for the problem of array synthesis in the presence of various array errors, interval analysis-convex programming (IA-CP) is presented. Simulation results show that the proposed IA-CP based synthesis technique is robust for the amplitude and phase errors.
The Influence of Parameters of Ink-Jet Printing on Photoluminescence Properties of Nanophotonic Labels Based on Ag Nanoparticles for Smart Packaging
Authors: Hrytsenko Olha , Hrytsenko Dmytro , Shvalagin Vitaliy , Grodziuk Galyna , Andriushyna Nataliia
Published: July 2017

Ag nanoparticles are perspective for the use in ink-jet printed smart packaging labels in order to protect a customer from counterfeit or inform them about the safety of consumption of a packaged product via changeable luminescence properties. It is determined that, to obtain printed images with the highest luminescence intensity, using the most technologically permissible concentration of fluorescent component in the ink composition and applying inks to papers with the lowest absorbance are recommended. The highest contrast of a tone fluorescent image can be obtained on papers with high degree of sizing. It is found that the use of papers with low optical brightness agent (OBA) content with a wide range of luminescence intensity allows obtaining the same visual legibility of a printed nanophotonic label. The increase in the relative area of raster elements of an image leads to nonlinear increase in luminescence intensity of printed images in long-wave area of visible spectrum, affecting the luminescence color of a printed label. For wide industrial production of printed nanophotonic labels for smart packaging, the created principles of reproduction of nanophotonic images applied onto paper materials by ink-jet printing technique using printing inks containing Ag nanoparticles should be taken into account.
Feature Selection and Parameters Optimization of SVM Using Particle Swarm Optimization for Fault Classification in Power Distribution Systems
Authors: Cho Ming-Yuan , Hoang Thi Thom
Published: July 2017

Fast and accurate fault classification is essential to power system operations. In this paper, in order to classify electrical faults in radial distribution systems, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) based support vector machine (SVM) classifier has been proposed. The proposed PSO based SVM classifier is able to select appropriate input features and optimize SVM parameters to increase classification accuracy. Further, a time-domain reflectometry (TDR) method with a pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS) stimulus has been used to generate a dataset for purposes of classification. The proposed technique has been tested on a typical radial distribution network to identify ten different types of faults considering 12 given input features generated by using Simulink software and MATLAB Toolbox. The success rate of the SVM classifier is over 97%, which demonstrates the effectiveness and high efficiency of the developed method.
Preclinical Evaluation and Monitoring of the Therapeutic Response of a Dual Targeted Hyaluronic Acid Nanodrug
Authors: Chen Minglong , Zhang Wenqi , Yuan Kai , Bo Mingxiang , Chen Bin , Li Lu , Ma Qingjie , Zhu Lei , Gao Shi
Published: July 2017

Chemotherapy is a powerful cancer treatment but suffers from poor biocompatibility and a lack of tumor targeting. Here, we developed a CD44-targeted polymeric nanocomplex by encapsulating 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) into hyaluronic acid nanoparticles (HANP) for targeted cancer therapy. In vitro, the HANP/HCPT showed improved cytotoxicity to five cancer cell lines including HT29, A549, MDA-MB-231, HepG2, and MDA-MB-435 versus free HCPT. After systemic administration into MDA-MB-231 breast cancer xenograft, tumor growth was significantly inhibited 5.25 ± 0.21 times in the HANP/HCPT treated group relative to the nontreated group. In addition, the treatment response was also accessed and confirmed by 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F] FDG) positron emission tomography (PET). The MDA-MB-231 tumors responded to HANP/HCPT 7 days after the first treatment, which benefits treatment strategy adjustment and personalization. No apparent systemic toxic effects were seen in mice treated with HANP/HCPT. In summary, the HANPs have great promise as a targeted drug carrier for cancer chemotherapy. Our HANP platform can also deliver other hydrophobic chemotherapy agents.
The Impact of Convective Fluid Inertia Forces on Operation of Tilting-Pad Journal Bearings
Authors: Hagemann Thomas , Zeh Christopher , Prölß Maximilian , Schwarze Hubert
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a combination of experimental data, CFD analyses, and bearing code predictions on emergence of convective inertia fluid forces within the lube oil flow of tilting-pad journal bearings. Concordantly, experimental data and CFD analyses show a significant rise of local pressure at the transition between inlet and leading edge of tilting-pad, especially for high-speed applications with surface speeds up to 100 m/s. This effect can be related to convective inertia forces within fluid flow as cross-sections and flow character rapidly change at the pad entrance. An energy-based approach is implemented in the bearing code in order to provide enhanced boundary conditions for Reynolds equation considering this effect. As a result, predictions of bearing code achieved significant improved correlation with measured pressure distributions and CFD-data. Further, beside the local influence, a nonnegligible impact on characteristic parameters of bearing operation such as maximum temperature and stiffness and damping coefficients is observed. Finally, the results are critically analyzed and requirements to gain more distinct and reliable data are specified.
Structure-Dependent CO2 Gas Sensitivity of La2O2CO3 Thin Films
Authors: Kodu Margus , Avarmaa Tea , Mändar Hugo , Saar Rando , Jaaniso Raivo
Published: July 2017

Rare earth oxycarbonates are potential candidate materials for constructing simple and low-cost chemiresistive sensors for monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2) gas in the living and working environment for personal comfort and health reasons. Also, measurement of CO2 concentrations is needed in many industrial processes. Specifically, sol-gel made nanoparticles of Nd and La oxycarbonates have been studied previously as novel CO2 gas sensor materials. In this paper, pulsed laser deposition of La oxycarbonate (La2O2CO3) thin films was studied and structural properties of obtained thin films were characterized. Also, CO2 gas sensing ability of synthesized films was evaluated. The films deposited under CO2 partial pressure in various conditions were all Raman amorphous. In situ or ex situ annealing procedure at high CO2 partial pressure was needed for obtaining crystalline La2O2CO3 films, whereby hexagonal and monoclinic polymorphs were obtained in ex situ and in situ processes, respectively. Sensor structure, made using in situ process, was sensitive to CO2 gas and showed relatively fast response and recovery characteristics.
Overall Survival of Elderly Patients Having Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Is Comparable to Younger Patients: Results from a South Asian Population
Authors: Chandrasinghe Pramodh Chitral , Ediriweera Dileepa Senajith , Nazar Thaaqib , Kumarage Sumudu , Hewavisenthi Janaki , Deen Kemal Ismail
Published: July 2017

Introduction. There has been a continuous debate on whether elderly patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) fair worse. The aim of this study is to assess the thirty-day mortality (TDM) and overall survival (OS) of elderly patients undergoing surgery for CRC.Method. OS between two groups (≥70 versus <70 years) having surgery for CRC was analyzed. Demographics, tumour characteristics, and serological markers were considered as independent factors. Multivariable analysis was done using the Cox proportional hazard model. We also compared overall survival in the elderly versus those <60 and <50 years.Results. 477 patients, 160 elderly (55% male; median age 75, range 70–89) and 317 younger patients (49% male; median age 55, range 16 to 69), were studied. Overall survival in CRC patients ≥70 is comparable to <70 (P=0.45) and <60 years (P=0.08). Poor OS was observed in the ≥70 versus <50 years (P=0.03). TDM in the elderly was poor (P<0.05). Postoperative cardiac complication was the only determinant affecting survival in the elderly (P=0.01).Conclusion. OS in elderly CRC patients having surgery is not worse compared to <70 and <60 years although the TDM was higher. Postoperative cardiac complications significantly affected OS in those ≥70 compared to those <50 years. Chronological age alone should not negatively influence surgical decision-making in the elderly.
Update of Sepsis in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Genga Kelly Roveran , Russell James A.
Published: July 2017

Sepsis, the most common cause of admission to an intensive care unit (ICU), has had an increased incidence and prevalence over the last years with a simultaneous decrease in its short-term mortality. Sepsis survivors are more frequently discharged from hospital and often experience long-term outcomes such as late mortality, immune dysfunction, secondary infections, impaired quality of life, and unplanned readmissions. Early recognition and management of sepsis have challenged emergency care and critical care physicians and nurses. New sepsis definitions were produced and the Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) 2016 was updated recently. Although hospital readmissions after sepsis are common, associated risk factors and how to manage patients who survive an episode of sepsis still need clarification. The immune dysfunction caused by sepsis/septic shock is complex, persistent, affects inflammatory and anti-inflammatory systems, and might be associated with long-term outcomes of sepsis. Several randomized controlled trials (RCT) that analyzed new (and old) interventions in sepsis/septic shock are discussed in this review in parallel with the SSC 2016 recommendations and other guidelines when relevant. RCTs addressing incidence, treatment, and prevention of important sepsis-associated organ dysfunction such as the acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury, and brain dysfunction are highlighted. Finally, we briefly discuss the need for novel targets, predictive biomarkers, and new designs of RCTs in sepsis.
Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Vehmeijer Jim T. , Koyak Zeliha , Budts Werner , Harris Louise , Silversides Candice K. , Oechslin Erwin N. , Bouma Berto J. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Mulder Barbara J.M. , de Groot Joris R.
Published: July 2017

Background—

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a major cause of mortality in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients. SCD may be prevented by implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation, but patient stratification remains troublesome. The 2014 Consensus Statement on Arrhythmias in ACHD patients and the 2015 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines specified recommendations for ICD implantation in ACHD patients for the first time. We assess the discriminative ability of these ICD recommendations for SCD in ACHD patients.

Methods and Results—

Of 25 790 ACHD patients in an international multicenter registry, we identified all SCD cases, matched to living controls by age, sex, congenital defect, and surgical repair. We assessed all primary prevention ICD recommendations listed in both documents. We used conditional logistic regression models to calculate odds ratios and receiver operating characteristic curves with area under the curve.
Consensus Statement:
One hundred twenty-four cases (median age at death, 33 years [26–44]; 67% men) and 230 controls were studied. In total, 41% of SCD cases and 17% of controls had an ICD recommendation (odds ratio, 5.9;
P
<0.001).
European Society of Cardiology Guidelines:
Of one hundred fifty-seven cases (median age at death, 33 years [26–48]; 64% men) and 292 controls, 35% and 14% had an ICD recommendation, respectively (odds ratio, 4.8;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

A minority of SCD cases had an ICD recommendation according to these guidelines, whereas the majority of SCD victims remained unrecognized. With an area under the curve of 0.6 to 0.7, the discriminative ability of both guidelines was mediocre. Critical clinical reasoning when deciding on ICD implantation in ACHD patients, therefore, remains vital.