bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of HD-MTX based systemic chemotherapy regimens: retrospective study of induction therapy for primary central nervous system lymphoma in Chinese
Authors: Han Xiao , Ji Yali , Ouyang Mingqi , Zhu Tienan , Zhou Daobin
Published: November 2017

We performed a retrospective study of 49 patients with newly diagnosed primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), to compare the efficacy and safety of different high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) based systemic chemotherapy regimens as induction therapy. 25 patients received AB ± R alternative regimen (consist methotrexate, ifosfamide, vindesine, dexamethasone, carmustine and teniposide), while others received HD-MTX ± R regimen. The complete response rate and overall response rate of AB ± R group and HD-MTX ± R group were 36.83% vs. 33.33%, and 68.42% vs. 71.43%, while the 2-year OS and PFS rate were 71.43% vs. 74.62%, and 42.86% vs. 54.64%, respectively. In Age > 60 subgroup, the 2-year OS and PFS rate of AB ± R group and HD-MTX ± R group were 81.82% vs. 33.33%, and 54.55% vs. 33.33%. No significant differences were found in grade 3 or 4 toxicity rate. Generally, HD-MTX ± R regimen was not inferior to AB ± R alternative regimen, but AB ± R alternative regimen seemed achieving more survival benefits in the elderly. We suggest to adjust HD-MTX ± R regimen by changing the dose-reduction strategy especially in elderly patients and adding other powerful drugs that can well penetrate blood-brain barrier to improve the efficacy.
The half Heusler system Ti1+xFe1.33−xSb–TiCoSb with Sb/Sn substitution: phase relations, crystal structures and thermoelectric properties
Authors: Tavassoli A. , Grytsiv A. , Rogl G. , Romaka V. V. , Michor H. , Reissner M. , Bauer E. , Zehetbauer M. , Rogl P.
Published: November 2017

Phase equilibria for Heusler Phase Ti1+xFe1.33−xSb at 800 °C and calculated isosurfaces (ϒ= 0.42) of the electron localization function in TiFe1.25Sb.
Constructing canopy-shaped molecular architectures to create local Pt surface sites with high tolerance to H2S and CO for hydrogen electrooxidation
Authors: Wang Tao , Chen Zhi-Xin , Yu Song , Sheng Tian , Ma Hai-Bin , Chen Lu-Ning , Rauf Muhammad , Xia Hai-Ping , Zhou Zhi-You , Sun Shi-Gang
Published: November 2017

Pt surface is modified with 2,6-diacetylpyridine, which exhibits high H2S and CO tolerance for H2oxidation through steric hindrance.
MiR-375 attenuates injury of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion via targetting Ctgf
Authors: Ou Jianying , Kou Li , Liang Lingyan , Tang Chaogang
Published: November 2017

Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of disability and deaths worldwide. MiRNAs have been shown to play an important role in development and pathogenesis of the nervous system. However, the precise function and mechanism of miRNAs are not fully understood in the brain injury induced by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Herein, our study showed that miR-375 expression was significantly down-regulated in the rat I/R brain. With the in vivo and in vitro I/R stroke models, we found that miR-375 mimic provides significant protection from injury to cerebral I/R, which is reflected by reduced infarct volumes and cell apoptosis, and increased proliferation and migration of PC12 cells. Mechanistically, our findings showed that miR-375 binds to 3′-UTR region of Ctgf mRNA, subsequently leading to the decreased expression of Ctgf in the I/R brain. Furthermore, we showed that miR-375/Ctgf-mediated protective effects are associated with p21/PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Our findings thus provide a new insight into the mechanism of cerebral I/R injury and pave a potential new way for the therapy of cerebral I/R injury.
Compensating the effect of residual dipole energy on dielectric response for effective diagnosis of power transformer insulation
Authors: Mishra Deepak , Baral Arijit , Chakravorti Sivaji
Published: November 2017

Analysis of relaxation current is a widely accepted method for diagnosis of power transformer insulation. The accuracy of such diagnostic tool is dependent on insulation model parameters which are formulated using relaxation current. This implies that the accuracy and hence the reliability of existing insulation diagnosis methods indirectly depends on the accuracy of the recorded polarisation depolarisation current. Sometimes during field measurement relaxation current measurement equipment fails to record proper current, even after application of dc charging voltage. As per utilities, this primarily happens due to improper/loose connections (this cannot be avoided entirely due to the involvement of human factors) and such situation is usually followed by checking and rectifying improper connection. The analysis presented in this study shows that the polarisation current recorded immediately after rectifying the correction is inaccurate and leads to the erroneous diagnosis. Furthermore, it is observed that in these cases, the measured and calculated (using insulation model) values of performance parameters like dissipation factor, polarisation index, and paper‐moisture differ by a large extent. This work is aimed at removing the effect of this residual dipole energy introduced during the improper connection phase.
DDoS attacks in WSNs: detection and countermeasures
Authors: Abidoye Ademola P. , Obagbuwa Ibidun C.
Published: November 2017

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have been widely applied in many areas for real‐time event detection. They are designed using both mobile and static sensor nodes (SNs) for different applications such as smart parking, environmental monitoring, health care systems, automotive industries, sports, open space surveillance, and so on. WSNs communicate through wireless mediums and are accessible to anyone, which make SNs susceptible to different types of attacks. Distributed denial of service (DDoS) is one such attack. It wastes the limited energy of SNs and causes loss of data packets within a network. A DDoS attack launches a coordinated attack by flooding the target nodes with bogus requests, thus exhausting their resources, and forcing them to deny service to legitimate member nodes. In this study, the authors propose a message analyser scheme for WSNs. The method is capable of detecting compromised SNs vulnerable to a DDoS attack. In addition, it is able to detect all compromised messages transmitted by the attackers to the base station through the sender nodes. The proposed method is compared with other related protocols. The results show that their method can effectively detect and defend against DDoS attacks in WSNs.
Dielectronic recombination data for dynamic finite-density plasmas
Authors: Kaur Jagjit , Gorczyca T. W. , Badnell N. R.
Published: November 2017

Context.We aim to present a comprehensive theoretical investigation of dielectronic recombination (DR) of the silicon-like isoelectronic sequence and provide DR and radiative recombination (RR) data that can be used within a generalized collisional-radiative modelling framework.

Aims.Total and final-state level-resolved DR and RR rate coefficients for the ground and metastable initial levels of 16 ions between P+and Zn16+are determined.

Methods.We carried out multi-configurational Breit-Pauli DR calculations for silicon-like ions in the independent processes, isolated resonance, distorted wave approximation. Both Δnc= 0 and Δnc= 1 core excitations are included usingLSand intermediate coupling schemes.

Results.Results are presented for a selected number of ions and compared to all other existing theoretical and experimental data. The total dielectronic and radiative recombination rate coefficients for the ground state are presented in tabulated form for easy implementation into spectral modelling codes. These data can also be accessed from the Atomic Data and Analysis Structure (ADAS) OPEN-ADAS database. This work is a part of an assembly of a dielectronic recombination database for the modelling of dynamic finite-density plasmas.
Adverse Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Indicated Compared with Spontaneous Preterm Birth in Healthy Nulliparas: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial
Authors: Doherty Lindsay , Roberts Jim , Myatt Leslie , Leveno Kenneth , Varner Michael , Wapner Ronald , Thorp John , Mercer Brian , Peaceman Alan , Ramin Susan , Carpenter Marshall , Iams Jay , Sciscione Anthony , Harper Margaret , Tolosa Jorge , Saade George , Sorokin Yoram , Tita Alan ,   for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network
Published: November 2017

Objective To compare the risks of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with spontaneous (SPTB) versus indicated preterm births (IPTB).

Methods A secondary analysis of a multicenter trial of vitamin C and E supplementation in healthy low-risk nulliparous women. Outcomes were compared between women with SPTB (due to spontaneous membrane rupture or labor) and those with IPTB (due to medical or obstetric complications). A primary maternal composite outcome included: death, pulmonary edema, blood transfusion, adult respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), cerebrovascular accident, acute tubular necrosis, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, or liver rupture. A neonatal composite outcome included: neonatal death, RDS, grades III or IV intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), or retinopathy of prematurity.

Results Of 9,867 women, 10.4% (N = 1,038) were PTBs; 32.7% (n = 340) IPTBs and 67.3% (n = 698) SPTBs. Compared with SPTB, the composite maternal outcome was more frequent in IPTB—4.4% versus 0.9% (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–11.8), as were blood transfusion and prolonged hospital stay (3.2 and 3.7 times, respectively). The frequency of composite neonatal outcome was higher in IPTBs (aOR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–3.0), as were RDS (1.7 times), small for gestational age (SGA) < 5th percentile (7.9 times), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (1.8 times).

Conclusion Adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes were significantly more likely with IPTB than with SPTB.
Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein and Cell Adhesion Molecules Following Exercise Training
Authors: Koh Yunsuk , Park Jin , Carter Rick
Published: November 2017

Elevated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and cell adhesion molecules are associated with inflammation and atherosclerosis. The role of exercise in circulating ox-LDL, enzyme mediators, and cell adhesion molecules are not clearly understood in obesity. As a randomized controlled design, 27 obese (BMI>30 kg/m2) sedentary men (N=13) and women (N=14) were randomly assigned to either an exercise (N=15) or a control (N=12) group. The exercise group performed a 60-min supervised treadmill exercise at moderate intensity (70% of HRmax) for 3 days per week for 4 weeks, while the control group did not exercise. Overnight fasting blood samples were collected before and after the study period to analyze serum lipids, lipoprotein-cholesterol, ox-LDL, 12- and 15-lipoxygenases, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecules-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1. Moderate-intensity exercise training lowered both ox-LDL (from 44.76±1.99 to 38.51±1.99 U/L, p=0.032) and MPO (from 31.48±2.20 to 23.09±2.20 ng/mL, p=0.010), without significantly altering body weight, other parameters of serum lipids and lipoproteins, or soluble cell adhesion molecules. Moderate intensity exercise training reduced the levels of ox-LDL and MPO, indicating a reduced risk for developing CVD and additional protection to the possible metabolic complications associated with obesity.
Efficacy of Lophira alata Leaf Extract and its Combination with Artesunate in Mice Prior Exposed to Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Falade Mofolusho , Komoni Favour , Nwuba Roseangela
Published: November 2017

Enhanced antimalarial activity of plant extracts used for treatment of malaria in endemic areas is attributed to partial immunity gained by prior infection. This suggests synergy between immunity and extract activity in treatment. Testing this hypothesis, rodent malaria was used to determine efficacy of Lophira alata leaf extracts in treating malaria in prior infected mice. One round of P. berghei infection and Pyrimethamine drug-cure was used to establish partial immunity in mice. Previously Exposed Mice (PEM) and Previously Unexposed Mice (PUM) mice challenged with P. berghei were used to determine influence of partial antimalarial immunity on efficacy of L. alata leaf extracts, administered alone or in combination with Artesunate (ART) in malaria treatment. There was a significant reduction in parasitemia in PEM when compared to PUM animals (P<0.001) irrespective of treatment regimen. Administration of L. alata combined with ART significantly reduced parasitemia (P<0.0032) and prolonged (P=0.0109) survival than when L. alata was administered alone in infected mice. These findings suggest that the action of L. alata in treating malaria infections in a murine model is enhanced by prior exposure to the malaria parasite. Thus the requirements of using plants in treating malaria in endemic populations may differ for those used in western systems, where trials are carried out with non-immune cohorts. Combining artemisinin derivatives and medicinal plants in malaria exposed populations may provide an alternative control measure in endemic regions and may justify the continued use of these plants by indigenous populations in treating malaria.
International high finance against the nation?
Authors: Stögner Karin , Bischof Karin
Published: November 2017

This article analyses antisemitic elements in the Austrian print media discourse
about the 2008–2010 economic crisis. The relevant discursive statements are
examined in the light of a theoretical understanding of antisemitic discursive
threads as found in the prevalent modes of presentation of the economic and
financial crisis in the media. The first main finding is the broad avoidance of
openly antisemitic stereotypes, with the exception of the Neue Kronen
Zeitung. The second main finding is that structurally antisemitic
discursive elements appear above all where (a) specific groups (“high finance”,
“financial sharks”, “speculators”) are singled out as the main culprits, (b)
these are opposed to a homogeneously constructed “us” (the
“Volk”), and (c) where the formers’ greed is stressed and
where they are accused of harming the people. Here we find nationalistic and
latent antisemitic discourses, the stereotypical contrasting of finance and
production, conspiracy theories and anti-Americanism closely interwoven.
Uric acid and cognitive decline: a double-edge sword?
Authors: Latourte Augustin , Bardin Thomas , Richette Pascal
Published: November 2017

Purpose of review

This narrative review aims to highlight recent findings on the relation between uric acid level and cognitive decline or dementia.

Recent findings

The antioxidant properties of uric acid, which have supported the hypothesis that uric acid may be neuroprotective, have been questioned by preclinical data. Studies investigating the relation between serum uric acid (SUA) level and Alzheimer disease are mostly cross-sectional, and results are often inconclusive. Similarly, data for an association between uric acid level and cognitive performance are inconsistent. There is some evidence that low SUA level might be associated with Parkinson disease, but studies are limited by methodological heterogeneity and risk of bias. Patients with gout may have decreased risk for Alzheimer disease, but the impact of treatment is unclear. Recent data suggest an increased risk of vascular dementia with high SUA level via increased cerebrovascular burden in older patients. The relation between SUA level and neurologic disorders may be U-shaped.

We lack strong evidence for an association between low SUA level and cognitive decline over time. Conversely, high SUA level might increase the cerebrovascular burden and the risk of vascular dementia; physicians should continue to treat hyperuricemia when appropriate.
Diurnal Variation of Optical Coherence Tomography Measurements of Static and Dynamic Anterior Segment Parameters
Authors: Xu Benjamin Y. , Penteado Rafaella C. , Weinreb Robert N.
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

To examine the diurnal variation of static and dynamic anterior segment parameters in young, healthy eyes by comparing anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) measurements obtained in the morning and evening and also in the light and dark.

Methods:

Twenty-two subjects ranging from 19 to 47 years of age with no past ocular history were selected. Imaging was performed with the Tomey CASIA2 AS-OCT device in 2 fixed lighting environments, light and dark, between the hours of 08:30 to 10:00 and 17:30 to 19:00. Four AS-OCT images were analyzed per eye. Pupil diameter (PD), iris area (IA), iris curvature (IC), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens vault (LV), anterior chamber width (ACW), anterior chamber area (ACA), angle opening distance (AOD), angle recess area (ARA), trabecular iris space area (TISA), and trabecular iris angle (TIA) were measured.

Results:

Pupil diameter was similar between the AM and PM groups in the light (P=0.89) and dark (P=0.51). There was no significant difference between AM and PM measurement values for any of the static or dynamic parameters in the light (P>0.39) and dark (P>0.31). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) demonstrated excellent agreement between AM and PM measurement values in the light (ICC>0.81) and dark (ICC>0.93). In addition, there was no significant difference between AM and PM angle opening distance at 500 µm measurement values in the light (P>0.34) and dark (P>0.40) when each of 8 angle sectors was analyzed individually.

Conclusions:

No significant diurnal variation of static or dynamic anterior segment parameter measurements was detected in the light and dark. Diurnal variation of these parameters does not regularly occur in young, healthy eyes.
Comparison of Outcomes of 3-Snip Punctoplasty Versus Simple Punctal Dilatation With Monocanalicular Intubation for Acquired Punctal Stenosis
Authors: Singh Swati , Ali Mohammad Javed , Mohamed Ashik
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare the outcomes of invasive (rectangular 3-snip punctoplasty) versus minimally invasive (punctal dilatation with monocanalicular intubation) treatment modalities for the management of acquired punctal stenosis.

Methods:

A retrospective, comparative, interventional case series was performed on 60 eyes of 36 patients with acquired punctal stenosis. Patients were categorized in 2 groups based on the intervention as 3-snip punctoplasty (group A) and punctal dilatation with monocanalicular intubation (group B). Qualitative and quantitative assessment for epiphora and punctal stenosis grading were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Patients with associated canalicular and nasolacrimal duct obstructions, congenital punctal disorders, eyelid malpositions, and less than 6 months’ follow up were excluded. Anatomical and functional successes were recorded following stent extubation and at 6-month follow up. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square, Fisher exact, and the Mann–Whitney tests. A p value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

Ninety-nine puncta of 62 eyes of 36 patients were analyzed. Mean age at presentation was 49 and 50 years in groups A and B, respectively. Bilaterality was noted in 67% (24/36) of the patients. Epiphora was the most common presentation. Involvement of upper punctum was noted in 6% (4/62), lower punctum in 34% (21/62), and both in 60% (35/62) of eyes. At 6-month follow up, the anatomical success rate was 84% (47 out of 56 puncta) in group A, whereas 93% (40 out of 43 puncta) in group B (p = 0.29). At 6-month follow up, restenosis occurred in more number of puncta (n = 9) in group A and only in 3 puncta in group B; however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.21). No stent-related complications were noted.

Conclusion:

Punctal dilatation with monocanalicular intubation achieves comparable outcomes as that of 3-snip punctoplasty in patients with acquired punctal stenosis.
Loss of Wt1 in the murine spinal cord alters interneuron composition and locomotion
Authors: Schnerwitzki Danny , Perry Sharn , Ivanova Anna , Caixeta Fabio Viegas , Cramer Paul , Günther Sven , Weber Kathrin , Tafreshiha Atieh , Becker Lore , Vargas Panesso Ingrid L. , Klopstock Thomas , de Angelis Martin Hrabe , Schmidt Manuela , Kullander Klas , Englert Christoph
Published: November 2017

Rhythmic and patterned locomotion is driven by spinal cord neurons that form neuronal circuits, referred to as central pattern generators (CPGs). Recently, dI6 neurons were suggested to participate in the control of locomotion. The dI6 neurons can be subdivided into three populations, one of which expresses theWilms tumor suppressor gene Wt1. However, the role that Wt1 exerts on these cells is not understood. Here, we aimed to identify behavioral changes and cellular alterations in the spinal cord associated withWt1deletion. Locomotion analyses of mice with neuron-specificWt1deletion revealed that these mice ran slower than controls with a decreased stride frequency and an increased stride length. These mice showed changes in their fore-hindlimb coordination, which were accompanied by a loss of contralateral projections in the spinal cord. Neonates withWt1deletion displayed an increase in uncoordinated hindlimb movements and their motor neuron output was arrhythmic with a decreased frequency. The population size of dI6, V0 and V2a neurons in the developing spinal cord of conditionalWt1mutants was significantly altered. These results show that the development of particular dI6 neurons depends onWt1expression and loss ofWt1is associated with alterations in locomotion.
Single-Molecule Peptide Fingerprinting
Authors: van Ginkel Jetty , Filius Mike , Szczepaniak Malwina , Tulinski Pawel , Meyer Anne S. , Joo Chirlmin
Published: November 2017

Proteomic analyses provide essential information on molecular pathways of cellular systems and the state of a living organism. Mass spectrometry is currently the first choice for proteomic analysis. However, the requirement for a large amount of sample renders a small-scale proteomics study, such as single-cell analysis, challenging. Here we demonstrate a proof of concept of singlemolecule FRET-based protein fingerprinting. We harnessed the AAA+ protease ClpXP to scan peptides. By using donor fluorophore-labeled ClpP, we sequentially read out FRET signals from acceptor-labeled amino acids of peptides. The repurposed ClpXP exhibits uni-directional processing with high processivity and has the potential to detect low-abundance proteins. Our technique is a promising approach for sequencing protein substrates using a small amount of sample.

SIGNIFICANCE

Protein sequencing remains a challenge for small samples. A sensitive sequencing technology will create the opportunity for single-cell proteomics and real-time screening for on-site medical diagnostics. In order to resolve protein identity, we previously developed a computational algorithm that analyzes the ordered sequence of only two types of amino acids within a protein species. Through modification of a biological nanomachine, here we developed single-molecule fluorescence technology to linearize protein molecules and to read signals from labeled amino acids in an ordered manner. This proof of concept of singlemolecule fingerprinting will open a new door to single-molecule protein sequencing and pave the road towards the development of a new, fast, and reliable diagnostic tool.
Sniff-invariant intensity perception using olfactory bulb coding of inhalation dynamics
Authors: Jordan Rebecca , Kollo Mihaly , Schaefer Andreas T
Published: November 2017

For stable perception of odor intensity, there must exist a neural correlate that is invariant across other parameters, such as the highly variable sniff cycle. Previous hypotheses suggest that variance in inhalation dynamics alters odor concentration profiles in the naris despite a constant environmental concentration. Using whole cell recordings in the olfactory bulb of awake mice, we directly demonstrate that rapid sniffing mimics the effect of odor concentration increase at the level of both mitral and tufted cell (MTC) firing rate responses and temporal responses. In contrast, we find that mice are capable of discriminating concentrations within short timescales despite highly variable sniffing behavior. We reason that the only way the olfactory system can differentiate between a change in sniffing and a change in concentration is to receive information about the inhalation parameters in parallel with information about the odor. While conceivably this could be achieved via corollary discharge from respiration control centres, we find that the sniff-driven activity of MTCs without odor input is informative of the kind of inhalation that just occurred, allowing rapid detection of a change in inhalation. Thus, a possible reason for sniff modulation of the early olfactory system may be to inform downstream centres of nasal flow dynamics, so that an inference can be made about environmental concentration independent of sniff variance.
Relationship between onboarding experience and turnover intention: intervening role of locus of control and self-efficacy
Authors: Gupta Priya D. , Bhattacharya Sonali , Sheorey Pratima , Coelho Philip
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find industry wise differences in relationship between onboarding experience (OE) and turnover intention (TI). An attempt has been made to find the intervening role of psychological variables such as locus of control and self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire was administered to 596 newcomers in five industrial sectors: fast-moving consumer goods, information technology (IT), pharmaceuticals, automobile manufacturing, and hospitality. The questionnaire measured the constructs of locus of control, self-efficacy, perceived OE, and TI.

Findings

Inverse relationship was found between perceived OE and TI. There is a significant positive relationship between motivation-based self-efficacy and TI which is mediated through OE. Affective self-efficacy moderates the impact of OE on TI, such that for individuals with low efficacy the inverse relationship between OE and TI is strong, but for individuals with high self-efficacy the relationship between the two variables is direct. The OE in automobile manufacturing industries is significantly higher than other industries. TI is significantly higher in IT and hospitality industries. Exploratory factor analysis of the instrument on OE led to extraction of four factors. Based on socialization resource theory, they were termed as orientation, socialization, task characteristics and leadership. Aspects of socialization and leadership are most significant factors in determining TI across industrial sectors, whereas in case of the hospitality and automobile manufacturing sector it was found that better the task characteristics higher is the chance of TI.

Originality/value

There are limited studies linking various aspects of OE with TI across industries, especially in the Indian context. So, this will be the unique contribution of this research.
Spirituality in public service
Authors: Bruce Willa
Published: November 2017

This paper argues that the deep moral values inherent in the world’s religious and spiritual traditions are both appropriate and needed in the public sector work place. It provides definitions of religion and or spirituality then discusses the influence of positivist law and practices prevalent there. This paper raises the following questions: What is spirituality? How does it differ from religion? Is spirituality now present in the public sector work place? Is it possible? Is it desirable? Is it relevant? What might be the implications of a work place where spirituality flourishes and is affirmed?
Chaos theory and postmodern organization
Authors: Smith Warren
Published: November 2017

This article notes the growing attractiveness of concepts “borrowed” from chaos theory in organizational studies. Many of these interpretations display sentiments broadly congruent with a “postmodern” approach to organization. Indeed chaos theory itself is presented as part of a similar postmodern shift within natural science. However, these sentiments have been subject to stinging criticism by scientists. Here, the deterministic underpinning of chaos theory is used to show that chaos theory is an entirely modernist enterprise. In this case the indeterministic messages taken by organizational theorists are something of a misunderstanding. Consequently, I discuss whether this is enough to threaten the interdisciplinary status of chaos theory, particularly when it is used in a self-consciously ‘metaphorical’ fashion.
Renal ultrasound and Doppler parameters as markers of renal function and histopathological damage in children with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Sawires Happy , Salah Doaa , Hashem Rania , Ismail Wesam , Salem Amr , Botros Osama , Seif Hadeel
Published: November 2017

Aim

Doppler ultrasonography can be used to assess the progression of vascular (arterial sclerosis) and parenchymal (glomerular sclerosis and crescents) renal damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of some sonographic and Doppler parameters as non‐invasive markers of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal histopathological damage in children.

Methods

A cohort of 84 children were enrolled in a case‐control study (42 with CKD stages 2–5 and 42 healthy children). GFR was assessed using new improved equation using serum creatinine and cystatin C. Sonar guided renal specimen was obtained and evaluated for the severity of global sclerosis (GS), segmental sclerosis (SS), tubular atrophy (TA), interstitial fibrosis (IF), arterial sclerosis (AS) and arteriolar hyalinosis (AH). The following sonographic and Doppler parameters were assessed in both patients and control group: resistivity index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), atrophic index (AI), mean renal volume, mean renal density, time average velocity (TAV) and body surface area related volume perfusion (BSARVP).

Results

There was significant difference in renal density (P < 0.001), RI (P < 0.001), PI (P = 0.021), TAV (P < 0.001) and BSARVP (P < 0.001) between patients and control group. The cutoff value of RI was 63.5% (sensitivity 83% and specificity 64%). Multivariate analysis revealed that renal density and RI were significant predictors of worsening of estimated GFR (eGFR) in CKD patients.

Conclusion

Any increase in the RI and PI values must arouse alarm to the possibility of advancing renal damage. Moreover, RI and PI could fairly predict the degree of glomerular sclerosis and interstitial fibrosis.
Judicialization and Health Policy in Colombia: The Implications for Evidence‐Informed Policymaking
Authors: Hawkins Benjamin , Alvarez Rosete Arturo
Published: November 2017

The existence of the tutela mechanism and the endemic weaknesses of the legislative and executive branches of the Colombian state have led to a de facto judicialization of health policymaking. The objective of evidence‐informed policy is to identify effective policy approaches and legitimize policy decisions. Questions arise about the basis on which judges take decisions with significant policy and budgetary consequences, and the forms of evidence they use to inform these. This article focuses on the extent to which courts take account of research evidence in judgements and assesses the implications for health policy in Colombia. We place these discussions in the context of a broader analysis of the ongoing reforms to the Colombian health system and the most recent literature on evidence‐informed policymaking. The judicialization of health policymaking offers a suboptimal means to achieve the objective of evidence‐informed policymaking. The emergence of a range of evidence advisory bodies in recent years is an attempt to address the issue of judicialization alongside the other constitutional and political weaknesses Colombia faces.
Poachers threaten Balkans' underground biodiversity
Authors: Simičević Vedrana
Published: November 2017

Scientists sound the alarm after finding hundreds of illegal traps in caves in three countries
Will robots be bodies with brains or brains with bodies?
Authors: Mengüç Yiğit , Correll Nikolaus , Kramer Rebecca , Paik Jamie
Published: November 2017

Biology motivates how complex functionality results from systems of simple materials.
A regular scale-dependent black hole solution
Authors: Contreras Ernesto , Rincón Ángel , Koch Benjamin , Bargueño Pedro
Published: November 2017

In this work, we present a regular black hole solution, in the context of scale-dependent General Relativity, satisfying the weak energy condition. The source of this solution is an anisotropic effective energy–momentum tensor which appears when the scale dependence of the theory is turned-on. In this sense, the solution can be considered as a semiclassical extension of the Schwarzschild one.
Effect of Bioactive Compound of Aronia melanocarpa on Cardiovascular System in Experimental Hypertension
Authors: Cebova Martina , Klimentova Jana , Janega Pavol , Pechanova Olga
Published: November 2017

Aronia melanocarpa has attracted scientific interest due to its dense contents of different polyphenols. We aimed to analyse effects of Aronia melanocarpa (AME) extract on blood pressure (BP), lipid peroxidation, cytokine level, total NOS activity in the left ventricle (LV), and aorta of L‐NAME‐induced hypertensive rats. 12‐week‐old male WKY rats were assigned to the control group and groups treated with AME extract (57.90 mg/kg/day), L‐NAME (40 mg/kg/day), or combination of L‐NAME (40 mg/kg/day) and AME (57.90 mg/kg/day) in tap water for 3 weeks. NOS activity, eNOS protein expression, and conjugated diene (CD) concentration were determined in the LV and aorta. After 3 weeks of L‐NAME treatment, BP was increased by 28% and concomitant treatment with AME reduced it by 21%. NOS activity of the LV and aorta in the L‐NAME group was decreased by about 40%, while AME increased it almost on the control level. AME‐induced eNOS upregulation may contribute to increase NOS activity. Moreover, AME decreased CD concentration in the LV and aorta and TNF‐α and IL‐6 production in the plasma were increased by L‐NAME treatment. In conclusion, our results showed that active substances of Aronia melanocarpa may have a positive effect on blood pressure, NOS activity, and proinflammatory processes in L‐NAME‐induced hypertension.
Associations Between Residential Proximity to Traffic and Vascular Disease in a Cardiac Catheterization Cohort
Authors: Ward-Caviness Cavin K. , Kraus William E. , Blach Colette , Haynes Carol S. , Dowdy Elaine , Miranda Marie Lynn , Devlin Robert , Diaz-Sanchez David , Cascio Wayne E. , Mukerjee Shaibal , Stallings Casson , Smith Luther A. , Gregory Simon G. , Shah Svati H. , Neas Lucas M. , Hauser Elizabeth R.
Published: November 2017

Objective—

Exposure to mobile source emissions is nearly ubiquitous in developed nations and is associated with multiple adverse health outcomes. There is an ongoing need to understand the specificity of traffic exposure associations with vascular outcomes, particularly in individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Approach and Results—

We performed a cross-sectional study using 2124 individuals residing in North Carolina, United States, who received a cardiac catheterization at the Duke University Medical Center. Traffic-related exposure was assessed via 2 metrics: (1) the distance between the primary residence and the nearest major roadway; and (2) location of the primary residence in regions defined based on local traffic patterns. We examined 4 cardiovascular disease outcomes: hypertension, peripheral arterial disease, the number of diseased coronary vessels, and recent myocardial infarction. Statistical models were adjusted for race, sex, smoking, type 2 diabetes mellitus, body mass index, hyperlipidemia, and home value. Results are expressed in terms of the odds ratio (OR). A 23% decrease in residential distance to major roadways was associated with higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (OR=1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.55) and hypertension (OR=1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.31). Associations with peripheral arterial disease were strongest in men (OR=1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–1.74) while associations with hypertension were strongest in women (OR=1.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.99–1.49). Neither myocardial infarction nor the number of diseased coronary vessels were associated with traffic exposure.

Conclusions—

Traffic-related exposure is associated with peripheral arterial disease and hypertension while no associations are observed for 2 coronary-specific vascular outcomes.
Sortilin and Its Multiple Roles in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Goettsch Claudia , Kjolby Mads , Aikawa Elena
Published: November 2017

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Studies of sortilin’s influence on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases goes far beyond the genome-wide association studies that have revealed an association between cardiovascular diseases and the 1p13 locus that encodes sortilin. Emerging evidence suggests a significant role of sortilin in the pathogenesis of vascular and metabolic diseases; this includes type II diabetes mellitus via regulation of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis through arterial wall inflammation and calcification, and dysregulated lipoprotein metabolism. Sortilin is also known for its functional role in neurological disorders. It serves as a key receptor for cytokines, lipids, and enzymes and participates in pathological cargo loading to and trafficking of extracellular vesicles. This article provides a comprehensive review of sortilin’s contributions to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases but focuses particularly on atherosclerosis. We summarize recent clinical findings that suggest that sortilin may be a cardiovascular risk biomarker and also discuss sortilin as a potential drug target.
Exploring Mondrian Compositions in Three-Dimensional
Space
Authors: Stevanov Jasmina , Zanker Johannes
                            M.
Published: November 2017

The dogmatic nature of Piet Mondrian’s neoplasticism manifesto initiated a discourse about translating aesthetic ideals from paintings to 3D structures. Mondrian rarely ventured into architectural design, and his unique interior design of “Salon de Madame B … à Dresden” was not executed. The authors discuss physical constraints and perceptual factors that conflict with neoplastic ideals. Using physical and virtual models of the salon, the authors demonstrate challenges with perspective projections and show how such distortions could be minimized in a cylinder. The paradoxical percept elicited by a “reverspective” Mondrian-like space further highlights the essential role of perceptual processes in reaching neoplastic standards of beauty.
Lecanora stanislai, a new, sterile, usnic acid containing lichen species from Eurasia and North America
Authors: GUZOW-KRZEMIŃSKA BEATA , ŁUBEK ANNA , MALÍČEK JIŘÍ , TØNSBERG TOR , OSET MAGDALENA , KUKWA MARTIN
Published: November 2017

Lecanora stainislai is characterized by a very thin sorediate thallus, forming a more or less continuous layer of soredia and by the production of usnic acid and zeorin. It usually grows on smooth bark of trees in forests and is known from the Czech Republic, Norway, Poland, Russia, Ukraine and western North America (Canada, USA). It is chemically similar to the sorediate L. compallens, which however has an episubstratal thallus in non-sorediate parts and often delimited soralia. They have also different phylogenetic positions within the L. symmicta group. Moreover, based on molecular marker analysis the position of L. expallens is resolved within this group for the first time.
New genera, species and records of Afrotropical Phaneropterinae (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae) preserved at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Bruxelles
Authors: MASSA BRUNO
Published: November 2017

The results of the study of the rich material of Orthoptera Phaneropterinae at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Bruxelles, are reported. The following new taxa are described: Dithela longicaudata n. sp. from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Terpnistriella bredoi n. gen. n. sp. from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mimoscudderia paulyi n. sp. from the Madagascar, Pseudogoetia constanti n. gen. n. sp. from the Democratic Republic of Congo (including a table listing differences with related genera), and Materuana abyssinica n. sp. from the Ethiopia. Some taxonomic and distributional data about the following species are also reported: Melidia claudiae Massa, 2015, Symmetrokarschia africana (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878), Eurycorypha ndokiensis Massa, 2016, Eurycorypha prasinata Stål, 1874, Eurycorypha spinulosa Karsch, 1889, two unidentified species of Eurycorypha recorded by Griffini in 1908, Tylopsis irregularis Karsch, 1893, Pardalota asymmetrica Karsch, 1896, Pardalota haasi Griffini, 1908, Pardalota karschiana Enderlein, 1907, Pardalota versicolor Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878, Poecilogramma cloetensi (Griffini, 1908), Poecilogramma annulifemur Karsch, 1887, Morgenia spathulifera Griffini, 1908, Mimoscudderia picta Carl, 1914 and Angustithorax spiniger Massa, 2015. The following synonymy is established: Plangiopsis shoutedeni Griffini, 1908 = Plangiopsis adeps Karsch, 1896; the latter species, recently moved to the genus Plangiola Bolívar, 1906 is again transferred to the original genus.
Religion and National Identification in Europe: Comparing Muslim Youth in Belgium, England, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden
Authors: Fleischmann Fenella , Phalet Karen
Published: November 2017

How inclusive are European national identities of Muslim minorities and how can we explain cross-cultural variation in inclusiveness? To address these questions, we draw on large-scale school-based surveys of Muslim minority and non-Muslim majority and other minority youth in five European countries (Children of Immigrants Longitudinal Survey [CILS]; Belgium, England, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden). Our double comparison of national identification across groups and countries reveals that national identities are less strongly endorsed by all minorities compared with majority youth, but national identification is lowest among Muslims. This descriptive evidence resonates with public concerns about the insufficient inclusion of immigrant minorities in general, and Muslims in particular, in European national identities. In addition, significant country variation in group differences in identification suggest that some national identities are more inclusive of Muslims than others. Taking an intergroup relations approach to the inclusiveness of national identities for Muslims, we establish that beyond religious commitment, positive intergroup contact (majority friendship) plays a major role in explaining differences in national identification in multigroup multilevel mediation models, whereas experiences of discrimination in school do not contribute to this explanation. Our comparative findings thus establish contextual variation in the inclusiveness of intergroup relations and European national identities for Muslim minorities.
Technical-environmental optimisation of the activated carbon production of an agroindustrial waste by means response surface and life cycle assessment
Authors: Sepúlveda-Cervantes Cynthia V , Soto-Regalado Eduardo , Rivas-García Pasiano , Loredo-Cancino Margarita , Cerino-Córdova Felipe dJ , García Reyes Refugio B
Published: November 2017

In this study, a simultaneous optimisation of technical and environmental parameters for activated carbon production from soybean shells is presented. A 23 factorial design was developed to explore the performance of the technical responses yield and iodine number, and the single score of ReCiPe endpoint method, which was evaluated by means the life cycle assessment. The independent factors included in the design of experiments were the impregnation ratio, temperature, and time activation. Three quadratic equations were obtained and simultaneously optimised by maximisation of the overall desirability function. The principal results of the individual responses indicate that the iodine number is practically independent of the activation temperature in a range of 450 ºC–650 ºC; the yield is inversely proportional to activation time and exhibits minimum values between 500 ºC–600 ºC; and the environmental response single score presents the lowest value at a temperature and time activation of 450 ºC and 30 min, respectively. The most polluting stage of activated carbon production from soybean shells production is the impregnation stage, mainly for the use of ZnCl2 as activating agent and the energy consumption. The simultaneous optimisation of the three responses indicates that the optimal activated carbon should be produced at 180 min, 650 ºC, and an impregnation ratio of 1 g soybean shell g ZnCl2-1.
Managing Sales Team at Balram Beverages
Authors: Mukherjee Jaydeep
Published: November 2017

Shyam Sundar, General Manager (Sales and Marketing) at Balram Beverages Pvt. Limited (BBPL), was pondering over the final decision regarding whom to offer the post of Deputy General Manager - Sales. Choice was between Sandeep, Arun and Vimal. Sandeep was an ex-employee of BBPL and had worked with Shyam from 2006 to 2015 as a Sales Manager - Route to Market. Arun Mohan was from a very reputed Indian fast moving consumer goods company, which operated through an entirely different channel than BBPL, and dominated the packaged fruit juice market in India.

Shyam expected the sales figures of Coca Cola and BBPL would increase considerably over the next few years due to the natural growth in the market and the planned increase in the product portfolio. The key to harnessing the growth and profitability would be essentially by expanding the distribution channel to include the fruit juice / milk product specific retail outlets, and by driving execution excellence and productivity of the sales force. He wondered how important would be the stability of the sales force as compared to the need to infuse new talent and knowhow about new channels in the sales team. It was further complicated by the resignation of Vimal Dhingra, one of his best performing and trusted Market Expansion Managers, who was tasked with growing the untapped and small rural markets. Vimal however shared that only if he were offered the position of DGM - Sales by BBPL, he would be ready to take back his resignation. How much risk he could take in recruiting someone in senior level of the sales team was a debate for him, also the likely signal that his choice would give to the entire 200 strong field force was unknown.