bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suspected Lonely Mouse Syndrome as a Cage Effect in a Drug Safety Study
Authors: Ye Xiaobu , Itzoe MariaLisa , Sarabia-Estrada Rachel , DeTolla Louis , Tyler Betty M. , Guarnieri Michael
Published: May 2018

Studies have demonstrated that buprenorphine, a front line drug for veterinary analgesia, may alleviate symptoms of chronic pain. A cage side observation protocol was used to record behavioral signs in a mouse clinical trial of extended release buprenorphine. A retrospective review of the observations for signs of pain and stress revealed that mice given a fivefold overdose of buprenorphine (16.25 mg/kg) showed lethargy and facial signs associated with stress. However, similar signs were observed in the drug-free control mice as early as Day 3 of single-cage housing. This appears to be the first report of cage effects in a clinical trial for a veterinary drug.
Rectal Indomethacin Is Protective against Pancreatitis after Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Xingkang , Zheng Wenfang , Ding Yue , Tang Xia , Si Jianmin , Sun Lei-min
Published: May 2018

Background and Aim. Rectal indomethacin was reported to be effective for postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) prophylaxis. However, the preventive effect of indomethacin for average-risk patients remains unclear. Recently, some conflicting evidence was addressed by recent articles. We aimed to determine the protective role of indomethacin in PEP based on the latest available literature. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to identify related articles published before October 2016. Studies that evaluated the administration of indomethacin in the prevention of PEP were included in the analysis. We adopted a random-effects model to calculate the overall relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results. Ten trials from an initial search were finally included in the meta-analysis. The administration of rectal indomethacin significantly reduced the incidence of PEP in consecutive ERCP population (RR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50–0.77). There was no significant heterogeneity across included studies (I2=14.2%, P=0.31). Further subgroup analyses also revealed that rectal indomethacin could protect the individuals at high and average risks and reduced severity of PEP. Pre-ERCP administration of indomethacin seemed to be better than the post-ERCP given. There was no evidence of significant publication bias. Conclusions. Rectal administration of indomethacin is an effective approach to prevent the incidence of PEP in both high- and average-risk populations undergoing ERCP. However, more high-quality RCTs are needed to further investigate the optimal timing for the administration of indomethacin.
YB-1 Expression and Phosphorylation Regulate Tumorigenicity and Invasiveness in Melanoma by Influencing EMT
Authors: Kosnopfel Corinna , Sinnberg Tobias , Sauer Birgit , Busch Christian , Niessner Heike , Schmitt Anja , Forchhammer Stephan , Grimmel Cornelia , Mertens Peter R. , Hailfinger Stephan , Dunn Sandra E. , Garbe Claus , Schittek Birgit
Published: May 2018

Cutaneous melanoma represents one of the most aggressive human tumor entities possessing a high tendency to metastasize. Cancer cells frequently exploit a highly conserved developmental program, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), to gain migratory and invasive properties promoting their metastatic spread. Cytoplasmic localization of the oncogenic transcription and translation factor Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) is a powerful inducer of EMT in breast carcinoma cells. Interestingly, EMT-like processes have also been observed in cutaneous melanoma despite its neural crest origin. Here, increased expression of YB-1 negatively affects patient survival in malignant melanoma and promotes melanoma cell tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo. Intriguingly, this effect seems to be mainly mediated by cytoplasmic YB-1 that does not exhibit phosphorylation at serine-102 (S102). Moreover, S102 unphosphorylated YB-1 enhances the migratory and invasive potential of human melanoma cells in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) culture systems and facilitates acquisition of a mesenchymal-like invasive phenotype in the chick embryo model. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the cytoplasmic activity of YB-1 stimulates tumorigenicity and metastatic potential of melanoma cells by promoting EMT-like properties.

Implications: This study reveals for the first time that YB-1 efficiently drives tumorigenicity and invasiveness of melanoma cells in its S102 unphosphorylated cytoplasmic state and that YB-1 expression represents a negative prognostic factor in primary melanoma patients. Mol Cancer Res; 16(7); 1149–60. ©2018 AACR.
Foveal Depression and Related Factors in Patients with a History of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Miki Akiko , Honda Shigeru , Inoue Yukako , Yamada Yuko , Nakamura Makoto
Published: May 2018

Purpose: This study evaluates optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings of the macula in patients with a history of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods: We enrolled 112 patients (age: 6–15 years) and categorized them into 3 groups: gestational age (GA) < 36 weeks with or without a history of ROP (ROP group, preterm group) and GA ≥37 weeks. We included 1 eye of each patient and measured the retinal thickness of the macula by OCT. Results: The ROP group demonstrated the worst VA and the shallowest foveal depression. Furthermore, foveal depression significantly correlated with birth weight, GA, ganglion cell layer/inner plexiform layer (GCL-IPL) thickness, and a history of ROP. Conclusions: This study established a correlation of fovea formation with premature birth, damage of GCL-IPL, and a history of ROP. The retention of the inner retina possibly contributes to abnormal foveal morphology in patients with a history of ROP.
Dose-Response Between Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Cardiovascular Mortality Among Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Yu Dahai , Cai Yamei , Shang Jin , Qin Rui , Xiao Jing , Tian Xing , Zhao Zhanzheng , Simmons David
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors (RFs) and their management targets may not be applicable to specific medical subpopulations, particularly dialysis patients. This study aimed to evaluate the dose-response association between measurements of RFs, cardiovascular mortality, and potential metabolic targets among Chinese patients initializing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods: Risk-set sampling was applied to two population based 1: 10 case-control studies of incident PD patients, matched by age, sex and the year of initialisation of PD: a main sample (204 cases and 2,040 controls) and a replication sample (81 cases and 810 controls). The dose-response association between continuous measurements of CV RFs (blood pressure, fasting glucose, body mass index, total cholesterol, phosphate and ejection fraction) at baseline and the 2-year CV mortality were analyzed using conditional Logistic regression. The final threshold was chosen based upon a significant break in the regression coefficients and achievement of the minimum Bayesian information criterion (BIC). Results: A linear relationship was identified between fasting glucose and CV mortality. Non-linear associations between other measurements and CV mortality suggested potential metabolic treatment intensification thresholds as < 145/92mmHg for blood pressure, < 1.70mmol/L for phosphate, 24 kg/m2 for body mass index, 4.6mmol/L for total cholesterol, and > 60% for ejection fraction respectively. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the potential importance of more intensive glucose management, anti-hypertensive treatment and dietary management among PD patients. We recommend that the clinical relevance of these epidemiological associations be tested using randomized controlled trials of multifaceted interventions.
Association Between Polymorphisms of the Complement 3 Gene and Schizophrenia in a Han Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Shangchao , Zhou Na , Liu Rui , Rao Wenwang , Yang Mingjia , Cao Bonan , Kang Guojun , Kang Qi , Zhu Xiaojing , Li Rixin , Yu Yaqin , Yu Qiong
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder, and complement 3 (C3) is closely related to schizophrenia. We investigated the association between C3 polymorphisms and schizophrenia in a Northeast Han Chinese population. Methods: A total of 2240 Chinese people, consisting of 1086 patients with schizophrenia and 1154 healthy controls, were recruited for this study. Ten single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs11569562, rs344555, rs2241393, rs2241392, rs11569514, rs445750, rs451760, rs11672613, rs2230205, and rs2250656) in C3 were selected and genotyped. Results: Genotype distribution analysis indicated that rs11569514 was significantly associated with schizophrenia. In the dominant model (AA vs. GG+GA genotypes), we found a significant protective effect for rs344555 against schizophrenia (odds ratio [OR]: 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53–0.99, P = 0.04). In the codominant model (TT vs. AA), we found a significant risk effect for rs11569514 on schizophrenia (OR: 4.39, 95% CI: 2.06–9.37, P < 0.001). Haplotypes, including TG (rs11569562 and rs344555), TGG (rs11569562-rs344555-rs2241393), AG (rs344555-rs2241393), CGGGT (rs11569562-rs344555-rs2241393-rs2241392-rs11569514), and ACGTG (rs11569514-rs445750-rs451760-rs11672613-rs2230205), showed either a risk or protective role for schizophrenia. Conclusions: SNP rs11569514 in C3 and haplotypes of C3 variants were associated with schizophrenia in a Han Chinese population.
Hsa_Circ_0001275: A Potential Novel Diagnostic Biomarker for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Zhao Kewei , Zhao Qing , Guo Zhaodi , Chen Zhixiang , Hu Yanwei , Su Jing , Chen Lian , He Zhiliang , Cai Xiuping , Chen Minyuan , Zheng Lei , Wang Wen , Wang Qian
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers. In this study, we aimed to identify a potential biomarker from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). Methods: CircRNA expression in PBMCs from three pairs of samples from PMOP patients and controls was initially detected by circRNA microarray. The changes in selected circRNAs in PBMCs from 28 PMOP patients and 21 age- and sex-matched controls were confirmed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Next, samples from 30 PMOP patients and 20 controls were used for further verification. Pearson correlation test was performed to assess the correlation between circRNAs and clinical variables. The area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated to evaluate the diagnostic value. Results: Six differentially expressed circRNAs were identified by chip microarray analysis, of which only hsa_circ_0001275 showed consistency and statistical significance in qRT-PCR. The correlation analysis between age, body weight, height, WBC, lymphocyte and monocyte count, bone density, T-score, β-CROSSL, OSTEOC, and TP1NP showed that hsa_circ_0001275 was negatively correlated with T-score. ROC curves showed that hsa_circ_0001275 has significant diagnostic value in PMOP (AUC=0.759, P< 0.001). Conclusion: This study suggests that hsa_circ_0001275 may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for PMOP.
HMGB1 a-Box Reverses Brain Edema and Deterioration of Neurological Function in a Traumatic Brain Injury Mouse Model
Authors: Yang Lijun , Wang Feng , Yang Liang , Yuan Yunchao , Chen Yan , Zhang Gengshen , Fan Zhenzeng
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex neurological injury in young adults lacking effective treatment. Emerging evidences suggest that inflammation contributes to the secondary brain injury following TBI, including breakdown of the blood brain barrier (BBB), subsequent edema and neurological deterioration. High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) has been identified as a key cytokine in the inflammation reaction following TBI. Here, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of HMGB1 A-box fragment, an antagonist competing with full-length HMGB1 for receptor binding, against TBI. Methods: TBI was induced by controlled cortical impact (CCI) in adult male mice. HMGB1 A-box fragment was given intravenously at 2 mg/kg/day for 3 days after CCI. HMGB1 A-box-treated CCI mice were compared with saline-treated CCI mice and sham mice in terms of BBB disruption evaluated by Evan’s blue extravasation, brain edema by brain water content, cell death by propidium iodide staining, inflammation by Western blot and ELISA assay for cytokine productions, as well as neurological functions by the modified Neurological Severity Score, wire grip and beam walking tests. Results: HMGB1 A-box reversed brain damages in the mice following TBI. It significantly reduced brain edema by protecting integrity of the BBB, ameliorated cell degeneration, and decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines released in injured brain after TBI. These cellular and molecular effects were accompanied by improved behavioral performance in TBI mice. Notably, HMGB1 A-box blocked IL-1β-induced HMGB1 release, and preferentially attenuated TLR4, Myd88 and P65 in astrocyte cultures. Conclusion: Our data suggest that HMGB1 is involved in CCI-induced TBI, which can be inhibited by HMGB1 A-box fragment. Therefore, HMGB1 A-box fragment may have therapeutic potential for the secondary brain damages in TBI.
Courtship behaviour and male sexual competition of the Taliang crocodile newt, Liangshantriton taliangensis
Authors: Gong Yuzhou , Shu Guocheng , Huang Feng , He Liuyang , Li Cheng , Xie Feng
Published: May 2018

The Taliang crocodile newt, Liangshantriton taliangensis, which is endemic to south-western China, is a rare salamandrid species with a distinct evolutionary history. Using combined field observations and captive experiments, we studied the courtship behaviour and male sexual interference of this species and composed a complete ethogram of its courtship behaviour. Unlike previous reports on sperm transfer, male L. taliangensis did not deposit spermatophores during ventral amplexus and females did not pick up sperm masses in this courtship phase. Sperm transfer was only performed during arm-hooking pin-wheel circling, which distinguishes L. taliangensis from Tylototriton species and supports the validity of genus Liangshantriton. Whether L. taliangensis shows bimodality in sperm transfer needs to be explored in additional populations. In the presence of sexual competitors, male L. taliangensis adjusted the duration of their behaviour. We found that males with longer snout-vent length, heavier mass, and higher tailfins may have an advantage in intrasexual competition.
Quantifying direct and indirect contacts for the potential transmission of infection between species using a multilayer contact network
Authors: Silk Matthew J. , Drewe Julian A. , Delahay Richard J. , Weber Nicola , Steward Lucy C. , Wilson-Aggarwal Jared , Boots Mike , Hodgson David J. , Croft Darren P. , McDonald Robbie A.
Published: May 2018

Detecting opportunities for between-species transmission of pathogens can be challenging, particularly if rare behaviours or environmental transmission are involved. We present a multilayer network framework to quantify transmission potential in multi-host systems, incorporating environmental transmission, by using empirical data on direct and indirect contacts between European badgers Meles meles and domestic cattle. We identify that indirect contacts via the environment at badger latrines on pasture are likely to be important for transmission within badger populations and between badgers and cattle. We also find a positive correlation between the role of individual badgers within the badger social network, and their role in the overall badger-cattle-environment network, suggesting that the same behavioural traits contribute to the role of individual badgers in within- and between-species transmission. These findings have implications for disease management interventions in this system, and our novel network approach can provide general insights into transmission in other multi-host disease systems.
Liberalism, Colonialism and Liberal Imperialism
Authors: Williams David
Published: May 2018

One of the most obvious features of the post-Cold War world was that western states and western dominated international organizations pursued a more expansionist and interventionist set of foreign policies and practices. In attempting to explain as well as assess this period, scholars from across the theoretical and political spectrum have identified “liberalism” or “liberal” ideas, arguments and concepts, as playing a crucial role in motivating these practices as well as shaping their contents. In turn this has led to increased attention to the links between liberalism, colonialism, and liberal imperialism. This article explores these connections by focusing on the trajectory of a particular form of Nineteenth Century colonial liberal argument—what will be called here “developmental liberalism”—articulated most famously by John Stuart Mill. The objective here is to use Mill’s arguments to raise a number of vitally important questions about the discourses and practices of some modern forms of liberal imperialism. In particular it stresses Mill’s arguments against immanence and institutional universalism, and his understanding of the kind of agency necessary for achievement of progress in colonial settings.
Local Faces, Human Crimes—New Histories of the Hungarian Holocaust
Authors: Lazaroms Ilse Josepha
Published: May 2018

This essay examines the state of the art in Hungarian Holocaust research by way of three studies that appeared recently: Budapest Building Managers and the Holocaust in Hungary, by István Pál Ádám; The Holocaust in Hungary: Seventy Years Later, edited by Randolph L. Braham and András Kovács; and Hungarian Jews in the Age of Genocide: An Intellectual History, 1929–1948, by Ferenc Laczó (all in 2016). It shows how these studies navigate the intentionalist versus functionalist debate in new ways, by zooming in on local, private, and ordinary Jewish Hungarians, as well as non-Jewish Hungarians, and their experiences of and role in the implementation of the Holocaust. Two main questions stand out: how to understand and come to terms with the complicity of non-Jewish Hungarians and the Hungarian state on the level of nationwide history politics, and how to grasp the relationship between the Holocaust and earlier periods in Hungarian Jewish history. In other words, was the catastrophic fate of Hungarian Jewry presaged by a lingering and deep-rooted antisemitism in Hungarian society, or was it an unprecedented and entirely unexpected occurrence that was out of step not just with Jewish life in Hungary, but with Hungarian society as a whole? By approaching the Hungarian Holocaust in the longer durée and from a transnational perspective, these studies succeed in illuminating the ways in which the catastrophe unfolded “on the ground” and how responses to it depended heavily on previous experiences and life stories based on class, gender, and political and emotional socialization.
Lectotypification of two names of Indian Sehima (Poaceae: Andropogoneae)
Authors: TIWARI ARJUN PRASAD , GAVADE SANDIP , LEKHAK MANOJ , VAISHYA JEETENDRA KUMAR
Published: May 2018

The genus Sehima was described by Forsskål (1775: 178) in Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica. Hackel (1889) treated Sehima as a subgenus of the genus Ischaemum Linnaeus (1753: 1049). Hooker (1896) treated Sehima as a section of Ischaemum. Presently, Sehima comprises seven species distributed in the Old World tropics (Mabberley 2008). Four recognized species, viz. Sehima ischaemoides Forsskål (1775: 178), S. nervosa (Rottler 1803: 218) Stapf (1919: 36), S. notata (Hackel 1889: 246) A. Camus (1921: 373) and S. sulcata (Hackel 1889: 248) A. Camus (1921: 373), are distributed in India (Sur 1988). Sehima notata and S. sulcata are endemic to India (Singh et al. 2015). During taxonomic studies of the genus Sehima in India, we realized that two names were not lectotypified by Sur (1988) in his revisionary work on this genus. Therefore, we designate here the lectotypes for two names that are each basionyms of names of Sehima according to Art. 9.2 & 9.11 of the Melbourne Code (McNeill et al. 2012). Images of type specimens were procured from virtual databases of different herbaria CAL, G, K, NY and W (acronyms by Thiers 2016).
Cleistes pallida (Orchidaceae Vanilloideae): a new species from South Brazil
Authors: FUNEZ LUÍS ADRIANO , PANSARIN EMERSON RICARDO
Published: May 2018

Cleistes pallida, a new species of Orchidaceae, is described and illustrated. The relationship of this new species to other taxa of the genus are discussed.
Leptodermis hechiensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Authors: GUO XIAO-MING , LIAO QI , ZHOU SHAN , WANG RUI-JIANG
Published: May 2018

Leptodermis hechiensis from Guangxi, China, is described as a new species. The species differs from similar L. yangshuoensis by triangular calyx lobe and 3-lobed style, and from L. coriaceifolia by subcoriaceous leaf blade and shorter bracteoles. Its leaf epidermis and pollen morphology were observed by SEM. Diagnostic characters and distribution maps of the above three species are provided too.
Gap-Filling Mobile Radar Observations of a Snow Squall in the San Luis Valley
Authors: Rosenow Andrew A. , Howard Kenneth , Meitín José
Published: May 2018

On 24 January 2017, a convective snow squall developed in the San Luis Valley of Colorado. This squall produced rapidly varying winds at San Luis Valley airport in Alamosa, Colorado, with gusts up to 12 m s−1, and an associated visibility drop to 1.4 km from unlimited in less than 10 min. This snow squall was largely undetected by the operational WSR-88D network because of the Sangre de Cristo Range of the Rocky Mountains lying between the valley and the nearest WSR-88D in Pueblo, Colorado. This study presents observations of the snow squall from the X-band NOAA X-Pol radar, which was deployed in the San Luis Valley during the event. These observations document the squall developing from individual convective cells and growing upscale into a linear squall, with peak radial velocities of 15 m s−1. The environment conducive to the development of this snow squall is examined using data from the High-Resolution Rapid Refresh model, which shows an environment unstable to ascending surface-based parcels, with surface-based convective available potential energy (SBCAPE) values up to 600 J kg−1 in the San Luis Valley. The mobile radar data are integrated into the Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) mosaic to illustrate both the large improvement in detectability of this event gained from a gap-filling radar as well as the capability of MRMS to incorporate data from new radars designed to fill gaps in the current radar network.
Risk Factor Assessment in a Greek Cohort of Patients With Large Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Makrygiannis Georgios , Mourmoura Evanthia , Spanos Konstantinos , Roussas Nikolaos , Kuivaniemi Helena , Sakalihasan Natzi , Tsezou Aspasia , Giannoukas Athanasios
Published: May 2018

Environmental and genetic risk factors contribute to the etiology of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been associated with the pathophysiology of AAAs. A prospective, nonrandomized case–control study was undertaken to investigate the risk factors for large AAAs (≥5.5 cm) among 175 male Greek AAA patients and to compare the results with a cohort of 166 male controls free from any aortic dilatation, as confirmed by ultrasonography from an existing AAA screening program in the same region. We also assessed the potential association between 2 functional single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genes MMP9 (−1561C/T; rs3918242) and MMP13 (−77A/G; rs2252070), and the presence of large AAAs. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed AAA family history ( P = .028), hypercholesterolemia ( P < .001), and current smoking ( P < .001) as AAA risk factors. Statistical difference was reached in genotype ( P = .047) and allele ( P = .037) frequencies for rs2252070, but the results did not remain significant after correction for multiple testing. No significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies for rs3918242 were detected. In summary, AAA family history, hypercholesterolemia, and current smoking were found to be risk factors for large AAAs.
Ecological Interface Design for Computer Network Defense
Authors: Bennett Kevin B. , Bryant Adam , Sushereba Christen
Published: May 2018

Objective:

A prototype ecological interface for computer network defense (CND) was developed.

Background:

Concerns about CND run high. Although there is a vast literature on CND, there is some indication that this research is not being translated into operational contexts. Part of the reason may be that CND has historically been treated as a strictly technical problem, rather than as a socio-technical problem.

Methods:

The cognitive systems engineering (CSE)/ecological interface design (EID) framework was used in the analysis and design of the prototype interface. A brief overview of CSE/EID is provided. EID principles of design (i.e., direct perception, direct manipulation and visual momentum) are described and illustrated through concrete examples from the ecological interface.

Results:

Key features of the ecological interface include (a) a wide variety of alternative visual displays, (b) controls that allow easy, dynamic reconfiguration of these displays, (c) visual highlighting of functionally related information across displays, (d) control mechanisms to selectively filter massive data sets, and (e) the capability for easy expansion. Cyber attacks from a well-known data set are illustrated through screen shots.

Conclusion:

CND support needs to be developed with a triadic focus (i.e., humans interacting with technology to accomplish work) if it is to be effective. Iterative design and formal evaluation is also required. The discipline of human factors has a long tradition of success on both counts; it is time that HF became fully involved in CND.

Application:

Direct application in supporting cyber analysts.
Influence of service ageing on polyester-reinforced polyvinyl chloride-coated fabrics reported through mathematical material models
Authors: Zerdzicki Krzysztof , Klosowski Pawel , Woznica Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

In this paper the coupled service (constructional tension) and environmental (sunlight, rainfalls, temperature variations) ageing influence on the polyester-reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-coated fabric VALMEX is studied. Two cases of the same fabric have been analyzed: one USED for 20 years on the real construction of the Forest Opera in Sopot (Poland), and one kept as a spare material (NOT USED). The following tests have been conducted: uniaxial tensile, biaxial tensile and long-term creep tests. The obtained results have been used for the parameter identification of the piecewise non-linear, Burgers and Bodner–Partom models. Next, the analysis of the influence of environmental conditions on the parameters of these models has been made. It has been concluded that some parameters are more and the others are less sensitive to the exposure to environmental and mechanical conditions. The change of material parameters for fill threads (due to larger deformation) is higher. The obtained results may be useful in the durability evaluation of the textile membranes reinforced with polyester threads and PVC coated. All the constitutive models with the identified parameters may be used for the numerical analysis of structures made of fabrics at the service beginning and after long-term usage.
Children of Mixed-Ethnic Heritage and Adverse Life Outcomes: A Comparison of Two Korean Adolescent Samples
Authors: Woo Youngki , Pedneault Amelie , Willits Dale W. , Stohr Mary K. , Hong Myeonggi
Published: May 2018

The number of mixed-ethnic adolescents from multicultural families in South Korea has rapidly increased over the last several years. Although traditionally ethnically homogeneous, Korea has recently shifted toward multiculturalism, yet little research has compared mixed and single-ethnic youth on adverse outcomes in Korea and, to date, no research has done so using a quasi-experimental design. This study uses propensity score weighting with a sample of 1,156 Korean adolescents (756 inter-ethnic and 800 single-ethnic youths) to examine differences in mixed and single-ethic adolescent adverse life outcomes, including depressive symptoms, fear of crime, and victimization experiences. The results indicate that inter-ethnic heritage is associated with increases in fear of crime, but has a negative association with victimization. Findings also revealed nonsignificant differences on depression between the two groups. This highlights the need to engage in research with a strong emphasis on eliminating confounding effects. Implications for further research are discussed.
Efficacy of the Educational Leadership in the Spanish Context: The Perspective of Its Agents
Authors: Pérez-García Purificación , López Carmen , Bolívar Antonio
Published: May 2018

Our study aims to discover the degree of efficacy of the principal’s performance in relation to the learning objectives, curriculum, and results, and explore the relationship among the perceptions of the inspectors, teachers, and management teams about the principal’s efficacy in promoting students’ learning. The Vanderbilt Assessment of Leadership in Education (VAL-ED) questionnaire was applied. Contingency analyses were calculated. We concluded that the three sectors considered the principal’s work to be effective in actions related to the learning objectives, curriculum planning, and responsibility for the outcomes.
Why it takes an ‘ontological shock’ to prompt increases in small firm resilience: Sensemaking, emotions and flood risk
Authors: Harries Tim , McEwen Lindsey , Wragg Amanda
Published: May 2018

This article uses a sensemaking approach to understand small firms’ responses to the threat of external shocks. By analysing semi-structured interviews with owners of flooded small firms, we investigate how owners process flood experiences and explore why such experiences do not consistently lead to the resilient adaptation of premises. We, conclude that some of the explanation for low levels of adaptation relates to a desire to defend existing sensemaking structures and associated identities. Sensemaking structures are only revised if these structures are not critical to business identity, or if a flood constitutes an ‘ontological shock’ and renders untenable existing assumptions regarding long-term business continuity. This article has implications for adaptation to the growing risk of flooding, climate change and external shocks. Future research analysing external shocks would benefit from using a sensemaking approach and survey studies should include measurements of ‘ontological’ impact as well as material and financial damage. In addition, those designing information campaigns should take account of small firms’ resistance to information that threatens their existing sensemaking structures and social identities.
Differences between early and late involvement of palliative home care in oncology care: A focus group study with palliative home care teams
Authors: Dhollander Naomi , Deliens Luc , Van Belle Simon , De Vleminck Aline , Pardon Koen
Published: May 2018

Background:

To date, no randomised controlled trials on the integration of specialised palliative home care into oncology care have been identified. Information on whether existing models of integrated care are applicable to the home care system and how working procedures and skills of the palliative care teams might require adaptation is missing.

Aim:

To gain insight into differences between early and late involvement and the effect on existing working procedures and skills as perceived by palliative home care teams.

Design:

Qualitative study – focus group interviews.

Setting/participants:

Six palliative home care teams in Flanders, Belgium. Participants included physicians, nurses and psychologists.

Results:

Differences were found concerning (1) reasons for initiation, (2) planning of care process, (3) focus on future goals versus problems, (4) opportunity to provide holistic care, (5) empowerment of patients and (6) empowerment of professional caregivers. A shift from a medical approach to a more holistic approach is the most noticeable. Being involved earlier also results in a more structured follow-up and in empowering the patient to be part of the decision-making process. Early involvement creates the need for transmural collaboration, which leads to the teams taking on more supporting and coordinating tasks.

Discussion:

Being involved earlier leads to different tasks and working procedures and to the need for transmural collaboration. Future research might focus on the development of an intervention model for the early integration of palliative home care into oncology care. To develop this model, components of existing models might need to be adapted or extended.
Resisting geosurveillance: A survey of tactics and strategies for spatial privacy
Authors: Swanlund David , Schuurman Nadine
Published: May 2018

Geosurveillance is continually intensifying, as techniques are developed to siphon ever-increasing amounts of data about individuals. Here we survey three tactics and three strategies for resistance in an attempt to provoke greater discussion about resistance to geosurveillance. Tactics explored include data minimization, obfuscation, and manipulation. Strategies for resisting geosurveillance build upon other forms of resistance and include examination of the assumptions of geosurveillance, investigating privacy-focused software alternatives, and strengthening the ability of activists to operate in this sphere. Individually, each of these are unlikely to effect great change; used in concert, they have the potential to guide technological development in such a way that it is less likely to serve corporate and government interests and more likely to protect individual and group privacy.
Effect of Intraoperative Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment on Postoperative Donor Site Knee Pain in Patellar Tendon Autograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Walters Brian L. , Porter David A. , Hobart Sarah J. , Bedford Benjamin B. , Hogan Daniel E. , McHugh Malachy M. , Klein Devon A. , Harousseau Kendall , Nicholas Stephen J.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Donor site morbidity in the form of anterior knee pain is a frequent complication after bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) autograft anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose was to examine the effect of the intraoperative administration of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on postoperative kneeling pain. It was hypothesized that PRP treatment would reduce knee pain.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Fifty patients (mean ± SD age, 30 ± 12 years) undergoing BPTB ACL autograft reconstruction were randomized to the PRP (n = 27) or sham (n = 23) treatment. In either case, 10 mL of venous blood was drawn before the induction of anesthesia and either discarded (sham) or processed (PRP) for preparation of a PRP gel to be later mixed with donor site bone chips and inserted into the patellar defect. At 12 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, patients completed International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) forms and visual analog scale pain scores for activities of daily living and kneeling. Healing indices at the donor site were assessed by routine noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 6 months. Mixed-model analysis of variance was used to assess the effect of PRP on patient symptoms and MRI indices of donor site healing, as measured by the width of the donor site defect.

Results:

Kneeling pain, pain with activities of daily living, and IKDC scores were not different between treatment groups at any of the time intervals ( P = .08-.83). Kneeling pain improved from 12 weeks to 6 months and from 1 to 2 years ( P < .05). IKDC scores improved substantially from 12 weeks to 6 months ( P < .001) and continued to improve to 2 years (PRP, 86 ± 19; sham, 89 ± 10). MRI indices of donor site healing were not different between treatment groups ( P = .53-.90).

Conclusion:

Whether randomized to receive PRP in their patellar defect or not, patients continued to have similar levels of kneeling pain and patellar defect sizes after autograft BPTB ACL reconstruction.

Registration:

NCT01765712 ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
Adverse Childhood Experiences and HIV Sexual Risk-Taking Behaviors Among Young Adults in Malawi
Authors: VanderEnde Kristin , Chiang Laura , Mercy James , Shawa Mary , Hamela Justin , Maksud Nankali , Gupta Sundeep , Wadonda-Kabondo Nellie , Saul Janet , Gleckel Jessie , Kress Howard , Hillis Susan
Published: May 2018

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) exhibit a dose–response association with poor health outcomes in adulthood, including HIV. In this analysis, we explored the relationship between ACEs and HIV sexual risk-taking behaviors among young adults in Malawi. We analyzed responses from sexually active 19- to 24-year-old males and females ( n = 610) participating in the Malawi Violence Against Children Survey. We tested the association between respondents’ exposure to six ACEs (having experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence; witnessing intimate partner violence or an attack in the community; one or both parents died) and infrequent condom use in the past year and multiple sexual partners in the past year. We used logistic regression to test the association between ACEs and these sexual risk-taking behaviors. A majority (82%) of respondents reported at least 1 ACE, and 29% reported 3+ ACEs. We found positive unadjusted associations between the number of ACEs (1-2 and 3+ vs. none) and both outcomes. In adjusted models, we found positive associations between the number of ACEs and infrequent condom use (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.0, 7.8]; aOR: 3.7, CI: [1.3, 11.1]). Among young adults in Malawi, exposure to ACEs is positively associated, in a dose–response fashion, with engaging in some sexual risk-taking behaviors. HIV prevention efforts in Malawi may benefit from prioritizing programs and policies aimed at preventing and responding to violence against children.
Living Alone and Dementia Incidence: A Clinical-Based Study in People With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Grande Giulia , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Cova Ilaria , Pomati Simone , Mattavelli Daniele , Maggiore Laura , Cucumo Valentina , Ghiretti Roberta , Vanacore Nicola , Mariani Claudio , Rizzuto Debora
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

Social isolation and living alone have been associated with negative outcomes, especially in the older population. We aim to investigate the effect of living alone on the development of dementia in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Materials and Methods:

In this longitudinal study, we enrolled 345 outpatients with MCI evaluated at baseline through a clinical and neuropsychological protocol. Data on living situation (living alone vs. living with someone) were also collected. The development of dementia at follow-up was the outcome of the study. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox regression analyses. Laplace regression was used to model the time-to-dementia diagnosis as a function of living situation.

Results:

During the follow-up time (mean [SD]: 2.8 [2.2] years), 172 (50%) participants developed dementia. After controlling for age, sex, years of education, MCI subtype, presence of comorbidities, and antidepressant therapy, people with MCI living alone were more likely to develop dementia (HR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1-2.1), when compared to those living with someone. In addition, participants with MCI living alone were diagnosed with dementia 1 year earlier than those living with someone ( P = .012).

Conclusion:

Living alone increases by 50% the risk of developing dementia and anticipates by 1 year the diagnosis in people with MCI. These results, in line with findings of previous population-based studies, emphasize the pivotal role of the living situation in identifying a frailer share of the population at higher risk of dementia to which devote ad hoc assessment and care.
External influence on structural reform: Did policy conditionality strengthen reform capacity in Greece?
Authors: Spanou Calliope
Published: May 2018

The experience of Greece under the macro-economic adjustment programmes represents an intriguing case of the impact of external conditionality on the process of implementing domestic structural reform. After discussing the concept of reform capacity, the article looks into the specifics of its interaction with policy conditionality, in order to elaborate to what extent external constraint unleashes or hinders reform potential. In doing so, the article shows that it is necessary to take into account the nature of the reform agenda and the impact of strong external leverage on the capacity of the domestic political system to translate requirements into reforms. It concludes that external pressure through policy conditionality has moved things forward. However, its in-built side-effects hardly allowed to change the pattern of political operation, while they inversely affected political and therefore reform sustainability. The wider implications of this case study point to the need for going beyond assumptions regarding reform incentives to look into the reality of domestic reform dynamics.
Asymmetric Mixtures: Common Conceptual Priorities for Social and Chemical Kinds
Authors: Noyes Alexander , Keil Frank C.
Published: May 2018

Hypodescent is the phenomenon of categorizing biracial individuals asymmetrically (e.g., viewing Black-White biracial individuals as Black instead of White). We propose that hypodescent is explained by domain-general attentional biases toward dangerous and distinctive components in conceptual representation. This cognitive mechanism derives its empirical support from several research traditions, especially from research on how people evaluate generic statements. Here, we demonstrate how liquid mixtures are categorized in ways characteristic of hypodescent. Mixtures that contain equal amounts of two liquids are categorized as whichever liquid is more dangerous or distinctive (Study 1). Dangerous and distinctive components are prioritized even when they are less than 50% of the mixture (Study 2). The relative dangerousness or distinctiveness of liquids (Study 3) or racial groups (Study 4) predicts the strength and direction of this asymmetry. We discuss how conceptual prominence relates to previous theories of hypodescent.
Life cycle approach in sustainability assessment for petroleum refinery projects with fuzzy-AHP
Authors: Hasheminasab Hamidreza , Gholipour Yaghob , Kharrazi Mohammadreza , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: May 2018

Infrastructure projects, which include a wide range of construction and energy projects, play an important role amid other industrial projects. In this regard, petroleum refinery industry projects are one of the leading manufacturing industries in the world and have the most notable position in the energy industry projects. Developing petroleum refinery industry projects are one of the principal contributors to economic and social development. In spite of the necessity of country development, this development has to be sustained at least in economic, social, and environmental matters (pillars of sustainable development) particularly after the Brundtland Commission Report in 1987. In this paper, it is proposed to simplify the evaluation process of life cycle sustainability versus life cycle stages. Thus, an indicator-based approach is used in order to evaluate the sustainability along different stages of petroleum refinery industry projects. Also, a multi-level hierarchy of criteria decision making is defined by using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), combined with a fuzzy set theory to enhance the reliability of the results. The outputs of this paper will be helpful for decision makers in many ways such as the most important stage with regard to sustainable development matters; or the most important pillars (economic, social, and environmental) of sustainability in each life cycle stage. Also, other valuable outputs based on the results are consequently discussed.
4-Methylpyrazole protects against acetaminophen hepatotoxicity in mice and in primary human hepatocytes
Authors: Akakpo JY , Ramachandran A , Kandel SE , Ni HM , Kumer SC , Rumack BH , Jaeschke H
Published: May 2018

Liver injury due to acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is the major cause of acute liver failure in the United States. While treatment with N-acetylcysteine is the current standard of care for APAP overdose, anecdotal evidence suggests that administration of 4-methylpyrazole (4MP) may be beneficial in the clinic. The objective of the current study was to examine the protective effect of 4MP and its mechanism of action. Male C57BL/6J mice were co-treated with 300 mg/kg of APAP and 50 mg/kg of 4MP. The severe liver injury induced by APAP at 6 h as indicated by elevated plasma alanine aminotransferase activities, centrilobular necrosis, and nuclear DNA fragmentation was almost completely eliminated by 4MP. In addition, 4MP largely prevented APAP-induced activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), mitochondrial translocation of phospho-JNK and Bax, and the release of mitochondrial intermembrane proteins. Importantly, 4MP inhibited the generation of APAP protein adducts and formation of APAP-glutathione (GSH) conjugates and attenuated the depletion of the hepatic GSH content. These findings are relevant to humans because 4MP also prevented APAP-induced cell death in primary human hepatocytes. In conclusion, early treatment with 4MP can completely prevent liver injury after APAP overdose by inhibiting cytochrome P450 and preventing generation of the reactive metabolite.