bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract WP96: Whole Body Vibration After Ischemia Reduces Inflammation in the Brain of Reproductively Senescent Female Rats
Authors: Raval Ami P , Schatz Marc , Bhattacharya Pallab , d’Adesky Nathan , Rundek Tatjana , Dietrich W. Dalton , Bramlett Helen M
Published: October 2018

Introduction:
A woman’s risk of stroke increases exponentially after menopause, and even a mild ischemic episode can result in increased frailty. Studies performed in laboratory animals and humans support the hypothesis that whole body vibration (WBV) reduces or reverses pathological remodeling of bone and lessens frailty-related physiological deterioration. Using a rodent model of stroke, we have examined whether WBV reduces inflammation and post-ischemic damage and improves motor function in reproductively senescent (RS) female rats.

Methods:
The estrous cycles of retired breeder Sprague–Dawley female rats (9–12 months; n = 4-6) were monitored for 14-20 days by daily vaginal smears. Rats that remained in constant diestrous were considered RS, exposed to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO; 60 min) and randomly assigned to either WBV or control groups. Animals placed in the WBV (40 Hz) group underwent 30 days of WBV treatment performed twice daily for 15 min each session for 5 days each week. During the treatment period, we tested motor function using a rotarod test intermittently after tMCAO. Animals were sacrificed on 30th day of WBV treatment and brain tissue was harvested for histopathological and inflammasome protein analysis performed by western blotting.

Results:
WBV decreased protein levels of caspase-1, ASC and IL-1 β by 88% (p < 0.05), 57% (p < 0.05) and 148% (p < 0.05) in the peri-infarct area as compared to control-treated group. The rotarod test scores from the WBV treatment group were significantly higher than the control group on day 30 (p < 0.05), suggesting a significant improvement in functional activity of the WBV group. The histopathological assessment demonstrated a significant reduction in infarct volume in a mild-stroke model following WBV treatment as compared to control rats. We observed 56% reduction in infarct volume of WBV treated rats as compared to control. In parallel, we also monitored neurological deficit of rats that were exposed to WBV/control treatment after tMCAO.

Conclusion:
The post-ischemic WBV intervention reduces brain damage and frailty in RS female rats, suggesting that WBV may be a potential therapy to reduce post-ischemic frailty and improve functional and cognitive outcomes after stroke in women.
Abstract WP98: L-3-n-butylphthalide Promote the Recovery of Neurological Function by Regulating Microglia M2 Polarization
Authors: Zhao Haiping , Ma Qingfeng , Fan Zhibin , Wang Rongliang , Tao Zhen , Luo Yumin
Published: October 2018

Objective:
L-3-n-butylphthalide (L-NBP) has been shown to have neuroprotective effects on cerebral ischemic, vascular dementia and amyloid-beta-induced animal models by inhibiting oxidative injury and neuronal apoptosis. Microglia activation and polarization contributes to neuronal damage in stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of NBP on brain damage and sensorimotor function in mice subjected to cerebral ischemia, as well as the immune modulatory effects of L-NBP on sensorimotor function and microglia activation in ischemic brain tissue.

Methods:
Male C57Bl/6 mice received sham surgery or transient occlusion of middle cerebral artery (45 min) and L-NBP were administered by intravenous injection at different dosage (7 mg/kg/day, 14 mg/kg/day, 28 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 3 days. Cerebral infarction volume were determined by TTC staining. Sensorimotor function were assessed by the tape adhesion test and beam walk balance test. The expressions of proteins associated with microglia markekrs were assessed by immunoinfluence and western blot.

Results:
Our results showed that L-NBP at three dosages decreased cerebral infarction size and brain edema after MCAO. L-NBP treatment at middle and high dosage significantly suppressed the touch time and romoval time in the tape adhesion test. And L-NBP treatment at middle and high dosage also decreased the score in the balance beam test. In addition, ischemia induced microglia activation in the brain. L-NBP treatment at middle and high dosage significantly suppressed the expression of M1 microglia markers iNOS but not CD11b. At the meantime, L-NBP treatment increased the expression of M2 microglia markers CD206 but not Arg1.

Conclusion:
These results suggested that L-NBP might be a promising candidate in reversing the progress of stroke by inhibiting M1 microglia activation.
Trichoderma polyalthiae sp. nov., an endophytic fungus from Polyalthia debilis
Authors: NUANKAEW KATESARAPORN , SOTOME KOZUE , LUMYONG SAISAMORN , BOONLUE SOPHON
Published: October 2018

A new species of endophytic fungi, Trichoderma polyalthiae, was isolated from stems of Polyalthia debilis in Ubon Ratchatani Province, Thailand. Trichoderma polyalthiae was distinguished from closely related species by its molecular and phenotypic characteristics. Based on multigene phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer region, translation elongation factor 1-α, and RNA polymerase subunit II gene sequences, T. polyalthiae formed a distinct clade. Morphologically, T. polyalthiae can be distinguished from closely related taxa by its growth rates, diffusing of pigment into agar, and hyaline conidia and production of chlamydospores.
On spermatophore-producing aquatic microdrile oligochaetes (Annelida: Clitellata)
Authors: RODRIGUEZ PILAR , FEND STEVEN V.
Published: October 2018

The formation of encapsulated spermatophores is exceptional among aquatic oligochaetes, although it seems to have occurred independently in several unrelated taxa. Among the microdriles, some variations appear unique to single species. The recently described lumbriculid Uktena riparia Fend et al. forms spermatophores in the male duct and attaches them within a deep spermathecal bursa. The attachment of spermatophores to the body wall, in the clitellar region, or in the vicinity of male or spermathecal pores has been reported in Paranadrilus Gavrilov, Bothrioneurum Štolc and some Aktedrilus Knöllner species. Anatomical comparison of reproductive organs suggests convergent development of glandular organs in the male duct or spermathecae, used for the formation, transfer and/or attachment of spermatophores to the concopulant worms. The presence of similar organs in Smithsonidrilus Brinkhurst, where spermatophores have not been reported, is also discussed. Furthermore, a lectotype is designated for Paranadrilus descolei Gavrilov, 1955.
The genus Metaporcelaimus Lordello, 1965 (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Aporcelaimidae) in Ukraine: Description of one known and two new species without hiatus
Authors: KRAINER LIUBOMYR , SUSULOVSKY ANDRIJ , PEÑA-SANTIAGO REYES
Published: October 2018

One known (M. romanicus) and two new species of the genus Metaporcelaimus, collected in natural and semi-natural habitats of Ukraine, are described and illustrated. Metaporcelaimus concinnus sp. n. is characterized by its 3.09–4.58 mm long body, lip region 16.5–19.5 µm broad and visibly wider than the adjacent body, odontostyle 17–19 µm long, neck 745–865 µm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 62–66% of total neck length, uterus tripartite and 3.9–5.7 times the corresponding body diameter, vulva longitudinal (V = 49–53%), tail conical (44–54 µm, c = 67–94, c’ = 1.0–1.3 in females), spicules 79–86 µm long with strongly bifurcate distal end, and 10–14 irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements without hiatus. Metaporcelaimus declivicaudatus sp. n. is characterized by its 2.88–3.66 mm long body, lip region 23–28 µm broad, odontostyle 24–26 µm long, neck 634–788 µm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 48–56% of total neck length, uterus tripartite and 3.0–3.4 times the corresponding body diameter long, vulva transverse (V = 51–55%), tail conical (45–65 µm, c = 53–63, c’ = 1.0–1.2) with rounded terminus, spicules 102–113 µm long, and 12–14 spaced ventromedian supplements without hiatus. New information about M. romanicus is also provided, confirming available data about this species.
Redescription of the Siberian species Pardosa jeniseica (Araneae: Lycosidae)
Authors: MARUSIK YURI M.
Published: October 2018

The male of Pardosa jeniseica, collected in the East-Kazakhstan Area, was first illustrated in Eskov & Marusik (1995). The authorship of the species was given as “Zyuzin, 1991”, because A.A. Zyuzin informed the authors in 1990 that a description of the species was in press. Because no such description ever appeared the authorship was given to Eskov & Marusik, and a single male specimen from East-Kazakhstan is now considered to be the holotype. It is kept in Zoological Museum of the Moscow State University. Esyunin et al. (1999) illustrated and described a female from the Urals thought to be conspecific with P. jeniseica. Conspecifity of the illustrated specimen with P. jeniseica was doubted by Marusik et al. (2000). Kronestedt (2013) was the first to illustrate the epigyne of P. jeniseica and Azarkina & Trilikauskas (2013) provided both verbal and illustrated descriptions of the female, and its epigyne and endogyne. Both sexes taken from one locality were never depicted, nor was peculiar pubescence of the male's leg I. Therefore, I decided to provide detailed illustrations and a verbal description of this species based on specimens from the place considered to be the type locality.Specimens were photographed at the Zoological Museum (University of Turku, Finland) with a Canon EOS 7D camera attached to an Olympus SZX16 stereomicroscope and a SEM JEOL JSM-5200 scanning microscope. Digital images were montaged using Helicon focus 3.10 image stacking software. All measurements are given in millimeters. The following abbreviations are used for leg segments: Fe femur, Pa patella, Ti tibia, Mt metatarsus, Ta tarsus; leg spination abbreviations: d dorsal, p prolateral, r retrolateral, v ventral. Material used in this study is deposited in the Moscow State University (ZMMU) and Zoological Museum of the University of Turku (ZMUT). I thank Seppo Koponen (Turku, Finland) for providing museum facilities and Don Buckle (Saskatoon, Canada) for editing English in the earlier draft of the manuscript.
A Modified Vertical Mixing Parameterization for Its Improved Ocean and Coupled Simulations in the Tropical Pacific
Authors: Zhu Yuchao , Zhang Rong-Hua
Published: October 2018

Climate models suffer from significant biases over the tropical Pacific Ocean, including a too-cold cold tongue and too-warm temperature at the depth of the thermocline. The emergence of model biases can be partly attributed to vertical mixing parameterizations, in which there are great uncertainties in selections of functional forms and empirical parameters. In this paper, the impacts of two different vertical mixing schemes on the tropical Pacific temperature simulations are investigated using version 5 of the Modular Ocean Model (MOM5). One vertical mixing scheme is the widely used K-profile parameterization (KPP) scheme, and the other is a hybrid mixing scheme (the Chen scheme) by combining a Kraus–Turner-type bulk mixed layer (ML) model with Peters et al.’s shear instability mixing model (PGT model). It is shown that the Chen scheme works better than the KPP scheme for SST simulation but produces an exaggerated subsurface warm bias simultaneously. The better SST simulation can be attributed to the employment of the PGT model, which produces lower levels of shear instability mixing than its counterpart in the KPP scheme. Furthermore, a modified KPP scheme is presented in which its shear instability mixing model and constant background diffusivity are replaced by the PGT model and the Argo-derived background diffusivity, respectively. This new scheme is then employed into MOM5-based ocean-only and coupled simulations, demonstrating substantial improvements in temperature simulations over the tropical Pacific. The modified KPP scheme can be easily employed into other ocean models, offering an effective way to improve ocean simulations.
Management Innovation in a VUCA World: Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Millar Carla C. J. M. , Groth Olaf , Mahon John F.
Published: October 2018

Our Call for Papers focused on breaking established patterns and models and showcasing management innovation in a world in which Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) reign. VUCA is both an outcome of disruptive innovation and a driver of it; and frequently VUCA is used as an excuse to avoid planning and action. While research has pursued the four elements independently, interaction and integration have been lacking. This article introduces three papers and offers 15 challenges as well as implicit and explicit recommendations to manage in the unpredictable and challenging VUCA world.
How Initial Word Reading and Language Skills Affect Reading Comprehension Outcomes for Students With Reading Difficulties
Authors: Vaughn Sharon , Roberts Greg , Capin Philip , Miciak Jeremy , Cho Eunsoo , Fletcher Jack M.
Published: October 2018

This study examined how differences in listening comprehension and word reading at the beginning of the school year influence changes in reading comprehension for English learners (ELs) with significant reading difficulties compared to non-ELs with significant reading difficulties. The study investigated heterogeneity in response to instruction among 400 struggling readers in fourth grade ( n = 183 for non-EL; n = 217 for EL) who received an intensive reading intervention. At pretest, word reading, listening comprehension, and reading comprehension were measured, and at posttest, reading comprehension was measured again. Results from moderated multiple regression analyses showed a significant three-way interaction such that reading comprehension at posttest was higher for ELs than non-ELs with similar levels of low word reading but relatively higher levels of listening comprehension. However, non-ELs outperformed ELs with similar levels of relatively high word reading and average to high listening comprehension. The findings suggest that pre-intervention skill profiles may need to be interpreted differently for ELs and non-ELs with significant reading difficulties in relation to language and literacy outcomes.
The Effect of Real Exchange Rate on Trade Balance in a Resource-Rich Economy: The Case of Mongolia
Authors: Doojav Gan-Ochir
Published: October 2018

For resource-rich developing economies, the effect of real exchange rate depreciation on trade balance may differ from the standard findings depending on country specific characteristics. This article employs vector error correction model to examine the effect of real exchange rate on trade balance in Mongolia, a resource-rich developing country. Empirical results show that exchange rate depreciation improves trade balance in both short and long run. In particular, the well-known Marshall–Lerner condition holds in the long run; however, there is no evidence of the classic J-curve effects in the short run. The results suggest that the exchange rate flexibility may help to deal effectively with current account deficits and exchange rate risk.

JEL Classification: C32, C51, F14, F32
Finite difference method for solving crack problems in a functionally graded material
Authors: Dorogoy A
Published: October 2018

A linear elastic two-dimensional formulation for functionally graded materials is presented. The two-dimensional equilibrium equations and boundary conditions in an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system are written explicitly. The finite difference technique is used to solve the above formulation. The solution technique is verified by solving two test problems, in which the material is graded horizontally and vertically. The results are compared to analytical results and have very good agreement. The solution technique is then applied to solve a long layer containing an edge crack in which it is assumed that the Young’s modulus varies continuously along its width. The problem is solved for two loading conditions: tension and bending. The mode I stress intensity factor is extracted by applying three methods: J line and two versions of a modified conservative J integral for graded materials. All three methods provide similar results, which are in excellent agreement with the semi-analytical results in the literature. These results demonstrate the applicability of the finite difference technique for solving crack problems in functionally graded materials.
Science and Terminology in-between Empires: Ukrainian Science in a Search for its Language in the nineteenth century
Authors: Surman Jan
Published: October 2018

Ukrainian science and its terminology in the nineteenth century experienced a number of twists and turns. Divided between two empires, it lacked institutions, scholars pursuing it, and a unified literary language. One could even say that until the late nineteenth century there was a possibility for two communities with two literary languages to emerge – Ruthenian (Habsburg Empire) and Ukrainian (Russian Empire). Eventually, both communities and languages merged. This article tracks the meanderings of this process, arguing that scholarly publications played a crucial role in shaping the standard for the scientific language.

The article follows the biography of the naturalist Ivan Verhrats’kyi (1846–1919), the author of the first dictionaries of naturalist terminology in Ruthenian in 1860, a translator and author of textbooks, and the head of the Mathematical–Naturalist–Medical Section of the Shevchenko Society in L’viv. He thus shaped many Ruthenian, and then Ruthenian–Ukrainian scholarly projects. Initially successful with his approach to making the Ruthenian scientific language vernacular, in the 1890s his approach was losing ground to the internationalization of vocabulary and to the growing pressure toward the unification of Ruthenian and Ukrainian. Finally, in the beginning of the twentieth century, Verhrats’kyi became marginalized within the Ukrainian scholarly community.

By discussing the history of a minority language within imperial structures, I argue that the media in which scholarly work was published requires special attention. In the Ruthenin–Ukrainian case, they determined the standard for scientific language. Lacking professional journals, Ruthenian scholars published in the 1860s–late 1880s in popular newspapers and in school textbooks, requiring them to use a language that was near to the spoken tongue of the Habsburg province. Once the political situation changed, favoring Ruthenian–Ukrainian unification, and scholarly journals appeared and transgressed the imperial boundary, the favored language had to be transimperial, ousting out the vernacular.
Psychosocial and Behavioral Correlates of A1C and Quality of Life Among Young Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Vigen Cheryl L. P. , Carandang Kristine , Blanchard Jeanine , Sequeira Paola A. , Wood Jamie R. , Spruijt-Metz Donna , Whittemore Robin , Peters Anne L. , Pyatak Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate relationships between behavioral and psychosocial constructs, A1C, and diabetes-dependent quality of life (DQoL) among low-socioeconomic status, ethnically diverse young adults with diabetes.

Methods

Using baseline data of 81 participants in the Resilient, Empowered, Active Living (REAL) randomized controlled trial, behavioral, cognitive, affective, and experiential variables were correlated with A1C and DQoL while adjusting for demographic characteristics, and these relationships were examined for potential effect modification.

Results

The data indicate that depressive symptoms and satisfaction with daily activities are associated with both A1C and DQoL, while diabetes knowledge and participation in daily activities are associated with neither A1C nor DQoL. Two constructs, diabetes distress and life satisfaction, were associated with DQoL and were unrelated to A1C, while 2 constructs, self-monitoring of blood glucose and medication adherence, were associated with A1C but unrelated to DQoL. These relationships were largely unchanged by adjusting for demographic characteristics, while numerous effect modifications were found.

Conclusion

The data suggest that when tailoring interventions, depressive symptoms and satisfaction with daily activities may be particularly fruitful intervention targets, as they represent modifiable risk factors that are associated with both A1C and DQoL.
Item Response Theory Modeling for Examinee-selected Items with Rater Effect
Authors: Liu Chen-Wei , Qiu Xue-Lan , Wang Wen-Chung
Published: October 2018

Some large-scale testing requires examinees to select and answer a fixed number of items from given items (e.g., select one out of the three items). Usually, they are constructed-response items that are marked by human raters. In this examinee-selected item (ESI) design, some examinees may benefit more than others from choosing easier items to answer, and so the missing data induced by the design become missing not at random (MNAR). Although item response theory (IRT) models have recently been developed to account for MNAR data in the ESI design, they do not consider the rater effect; thus, their utility is seriously restricted. In this study, two methods are developed: the first one is a new IRT model to account for both MNAR data and rater severity simultaneously, and the second one adapts conditional maximum likelihood estimation and pairwise estimation methods to the ESI design with the rater effect. A series of simulations was then conducted to compare their performance with those of conventional IRT models that ignored MNAR data or rater severity. The results indicated a good parameter recovery for the new model. The conditional maximum likelihood estimation and pairwise estimation methods were applicable when the Rasch models fit the data, but the conventional IRT models yielded biased parameter estimates. An empirical example was given to illustrate these new initiatives.
Zelauto’s Polinarda and the Palmerin Romances
Authors: Sánchez-Martí Jordi
Published: October 2018

In his Zelauto, published in 1580, Anthony Munday alludes to a character called Polinarda. In fact, he borrowed this name from the Palmerin cycle of romances, which originated in the Iberian Peninsula in 1511. After analysing the narrative context in which Polinarda appears in Zelauto, this note identifies parallel episodes in Palmerin d’Oliva and Palmerin of England that may have inspired Munday. This discussion also reveals how in 1580 Munday was acquainted with the Palmerin romance narratives and how his project of translating the Iberian books of chivalry was subordinate to the commercial strategy of his printer, John Charlewood.
Inaugurating the complete works (again): Shakespeare Nation, Doranism and literalism in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2014 summer season
Authors: Smith Peter J
Published: October 2018

Greg Doran, Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, inaugurated his Shakespeare Nation project in 2014. This involves yet another staging of the complete works. This article examines his production of the two parts of Henry IV as well as The Witch of Edmonton. It also covers the production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona in the main house and three other shows in the Swan, labelled the ‘Roaring Girls’ season. The article exposes a tendency towards literalism in Doran’s own work (which it labels ‘Doranism’) and argues that this quality leads to an imaginative diminution of Shakespeare’s theatricality.
‘Je ne voudrais prononcer ces mots’
Authors: Sanchez Reuben
Published: October 2018

Catherine’s language lesson in Henry V turns on the use of two bawdy French words, foutre and con – or rather, on the English words foot and gown which, when pronounced by the French speakers, sound like the bawdy words. In the courtship scene, Harry and Catherine avoid such words, yet each desires what they signify; both play a linguistic game in which they attempt to achieve what decorum prevents them from naming. Instead of direct and clear expression, this linguistic game involves figurative language and euphemism. A source for the linguistic principles underpinning both scenes is the medieval French fabliau.
2016
Authors: March Florence , Vienne-Guerrin Nathalie
Published: October 2018

To celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier 3 orchestrated a 24-hour Shakespearean show at the university theatre (La Vignette), which was followed by a 14-hour version entitled After Shakespeare, that was performed during the popular Printemps des Comédiens Montpellier festival. At the crossroads of theory and practice, and of various disciplines, this collaborative enterprise federated research centres and departments, as well as education and cultural partners. Both experimental marathon performances, directed by Laurent Berger, were the culmination of a large-scale, year-long project which challenged conventional pedagogic practices.
‘Unclothe me of sin’s gay trappings’
Authors: LaPerle Carol Mejia
Published: October 2018

This article demonstrates the ways in which The Renegado is relentlessly rhetorical. Early modern preoccupation with rhetorical theory and practice informs depictions of the material exchanges, erotic overtures and religious conversions as these attend Philip Massinger’s representations of the foreign. When considering the play’s representation of commerce, seduction and religion abroad, at stake is something closer to rhetorical considerations at home; that is, how to convert foreign ornamentation to advantage. Ultimately, the play’s resolutions hinge on transforming effeminizing, foreign ornamentation into ‘plain English’, a conversion that turns global spaces of inherent risk and insecurity into scenes of tractable, marital domesticity.
Gesta Grayorum and Le Prince d’Amour
Authors: Takemura Harumi
Published: October 2018

Although the indebtedness of early modern English dramatic literature to the intellectual and literary milieu of the Inns of Court is widely recognized, its revelling culture has been heretofore understudied. The Inns of Court developed its own festive culture, which gives the evidence of the hybridity of courtly entertainments and satirical urbanism. This article looks in detail at two Inns of Court revels performed in the 1590s, Gesta Grayorum (1594–95, Gray’s Inn) and Le Prince d’Amour (1597–98, Middle Temple), and explores the shifting nature of the Elizabethan entertainment culture.
‘Nature’s fragile vessel’
Authors: Gregory Johann
Published: October 2018

The notion of fragility is a pervasive one in Western culture. Considering its appearance in early modern texts can help us to understand the history of fragility, as an idea, metaphor and feeling. The relationship between humans and breakable things is used as a metaphor that recognizes human limitations in body or mind. This essay begins with one peculiar instance of fragility from Shakespeare’s Timon of Athens before analysing other examples in early modern culture. It ends by making a few tentative propositions regarding the relationships between literature, material culture and the representations of human fragility.
The Standard for the Exchange of Nonclinical Data (SEND): Challenges and Promises
Authors: Choudhary Shambhunath , Walker Audrey , Funk Kathleen , Keenan Charlotte , Khan Imran , Maratea Kimberly
Published: October 2018

The Standard for the Exchange of Nonclinical Data (SEND) is an implementation of the Study Data Tabulation Model for nonclinical studies that enables the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to modernize and streamline the review process. As a result, patients may benefit from speedier approval of new drugs. However, SEND implementation and compliance can be challenging and require effective cooperation between pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations. In order to improve Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP) members’ awareness about SEND, including the steps, obstacles, and mistakes to avoid in its implementation while applying for FDA approval, the Career Development and Outreach Committee of the STP sponsored a career development lunchtime series panel discussion entitled “The Standard for the Exchange of Nonclinical Data (SEND): Challenges and Promise” in conjunction with the STP 37th Annual Symposium. The presentations and discussion at this workshop provided perspectives of experts including pathologists and information technology professionals familiar with the SEND submission process and FDA reviewers. This article is designed to provide brief summaries of their talks as well as the questions asked during this well-received panel discussion.
Phonological and grammatical production in children with developmental language disorder and children with hearing impairment
Authors: Sundström Simon , Löfkvist Ulrika , Lyxell Björn , Samuelsson Christina
Published: October 2018

Children with hearing impairment (HI) are at an increased risk of developing speech and language problems similar to those of children with developmental language disorder (DLD), including difficulties with phonology and grammar. This study investigated similarities and differences in phonological and grammatical production between children with bilateral sensorineural HI ( n = 14) and children with DLD ( n = 30) between 4-6 years of age and age-matched controls with typical language development and normal hearing (TLD) ( n = 29), all with Swedish as their first language. Production of consonants, vowels, stress patterns and tonal word accents was assessed in a picture naming task, and in a word and nonword repetition task. Grammatical production was assessed for verb and noun morphology, and syntax. While performance for both children with HI and DLD were generally significantly below that of the controls with TLD, production of accents and syntax emerged as relative strengths. There were few differences between the between the children with HI and DLD, but noun–adjective agreement in predicative was more challenging for the children with HI. The results have implications for language assessment and planning of intervention.
Hypertension, dietary salt and cognitive impairment
Authors: Santisteban Monica M , Iadecola Costantino
Published: October 2018

Dementia is growing at an alarming rate worldwide. Although Alzheimer disease is the leading cause, over 50% of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer disease have vascular lesions at autopsy. There has been an increasing appreciation of the pathogenic role of vascular risk factors in cognitive impairment caused by neurodegeneration. Midlife hypertension is a leading risk factor for late-life dementia. Hypertension alters cerebrovascular structure, impairs the major factors regulating the cerebral microcirculation, and promotes Alzheimer pathology. Experimental studies have identified brain perivascular macrophages as the major free radical source mediating neurovascular dysfunction of hypertension. Recent evidence indicates that high dietary salt may also induce cognitive impairment. Contrary to previous belief, the effect is not necessarily associated with hypertension and is mediated by a deficit in endothelial nitric oxide. Collectively, the evidence suggests a remarkable cellular diversity of the impact of vascular risk factors on the cerebral vasculature and cognition. Whereas long-term longitudinal epidemiological studies are needed to resolve the temporal relationships between vascular risk factors and cognitive dysfunction, single-cell molecular studies of the vasculature in animal models will provide a fuller mechanistic understanding. This knowledge is critical for developing new preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for these devastating diseases of the mind.
Analgesic effect of preoperative dezocine-based local anesthesia in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Liu Xingwen , Hu Jing , Gao Liqun , Ji Xuewen , Zhai Duxiu , Song Huixia , Wu Xueying , Wang Liying
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study was performed to investigate the analgesic effects of intramuscular injection of dezocine-based local anesthesia in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair.

Methods

A total of 120 patients underwent local herniorrhaphy from July 2015 to December 2016 and were randomly divided into 2 groups: the dezocine group, in which a preoperative intramuscular injection of dezocine was administered, and the control group, in which no dezocine injection was administered. The patients’ pain and comfort levels were evaluated at 30 minutes, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours postoperatively.

Results

The visual analog scale scores at 30 minutes, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours were significantly lower in the dezocine than control group. In the Bruggemann comfort scale evaluation, patients who received dezocine injections showed significantly greater comfort than those in the control group at 30 minutes, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours. No adverse reactions occurred in the dezocine group.

Conclusions

Dezocine-based local anesthesia can attenuate postoperative pain and increase the comfort level during and after herniorrhaphy.
Stability of plasma proteins and factors in Chinese universal pooled plasma
Authors: Zhu Liguo , Sun Liping , Fan Fengyan , Zhang Dongqing , Li Changqing , Wang Deqing
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study aimed to determine the precision dose of Chinese universal pooled plasma (CUPP) developed by our laboratory, and the stability of plasma proteins and factors.

Methods

A total of 100 single fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) units were selected to test plasma proteins, including total protein, albumin, fibrinogen, factor V, factor VIII, antithrombin-III, and protein C. Different pooling protocols with 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 units were used to optimize the number of pooled units. The pooled plasma was then used to further evaluate the optimal storage conditions and duration at 22°C, 4°C, and −20°C.

Results

There were considerable differences in plasma protein levels among single units of FFP. After different pooling protocols, the mean value of plasma proteins did not significantly change. However, with a larger number of pooled samples, plasma proteins were more stable with a smaller standard deviation. Acceptable storage for CUPP was achieved with storage for 1 day at 22°C, 4 days at 4°C, and 3 months at −20°C.

Conclusion

A uniform level of plasma proteins and factors in CUPP appears to support establishment of a precise dose of plasma.
Introducing a Design Framework for a Multi-Modal Public Transportation System, Focusing on Mixed-Fleet Bike-Sharing Systems
Authors: Ghamami Mehrnaz , Shojaei MohammadHossein (Sam)
Published: October 2018

Bike-sharing is increasingly becoming more popular. Electric bikes as an emerging transportation technology have extended range and are less physically demanding, compared with regular bicycles, thus they can be incorporated into regular bike-sharing systems to attract more users. This study aims at capturing the users’ preference, while considering investors’ limitations and societal cost and benefits of each mode. The problem is defined as a mixed-integer non-liner problem, with nonlinear objective function and constraints. Because of the computationally challenging nature of the problem, a metaheuristic algorithm based on simulated annealing algorithm is proposed for its solution. The performance of the algorithm is tested in this study and convergence patterns are observed. The main findings of this study which are derived from the hypothetical numerical example, include but are not limited to: (1) the most popular public modes are bus and pedelec, because these two modes (bus and pedelec) are less expensive and have the ability to traverse longer distances in comparison to similar modes (i.e., e-scooter/car and bike), and (2) for small communities with short travel distances (feasible within the ranges of active modes), users would not choose fuel-consuming modes, and thus their choice is insensitive to fuel cost.
Developing an Empirical Pipeline and Rail Crude Oil Mode Split and Route Assignment Model
Authors: Morrison Adam , Bachmann Chris , Saccomanno Frank
Published: October 2018

In recent years, improvements in pipeline capacities and connectivity have been inhibited by environmental and political concerns (e.g., the Dakota and Keystone XL pipeline expansion projects). This has resulted in a greater dependency on rail transport, and this modal shift of crude oil from pipeline to rail is likely to become more pronounced in the future. Therefore, there is a need to assess the impacts of future changes in pipeline/rail network connectivity, modal attributes, and shipment protocols, on the expected pattern of crude oil shipments. This paper presents a rule-based mode split and route assignment model that reflects real-world allocation, assignment, and apportionment rules. The decision-making process underlying this model is the shipper, who is prioritized by the carrier when there is limited pipeline capacity available. The proposed algorithm allows for the inclusion of crude oil shipments and the pipeline network into conventional freight demand models by capturing the complex interactions of crude shippers, pipeline carriers, and regulatory bodies. This paper demonstrates how the model can be used to predict changes in Canadian crude oil flow patterns and mode shares subject to changes in specific transportation network attributes or crude oil demands.
Beasts, victims or competent agents: The positioning of children in research literature on manipulation
Authors: Warming Hanne , Galløe Lotte Rannveig , Carlsen Anna Rosa Haumark , Rasmussen Sara Romme
Published: October 2018

Drawing on positioning theory, Warming, Galløe, Carlsen and Rasmussen explore how discourses of manipulation in everyday life debates and research literature contribute to what Cook has termed ‘the moral project of childhood’. The analysis shows that children are positioned in these discourses either as incompetent, powerless victims or as powerful, egoistic or psychopathological agents, and moreover that these discourses unreflexively build upon and reinstall pre-sociological Dionysian and Apollonian views on Childhood, and a taken-for-granted generational order in which adults hold (and should hold) power over children.
Effectively improving the performance of MWNT/PEEK composite by choosing PAK-Cz as the solubilizer
Authors: Lin Li , Han Yuntao , Zhao Xiaohan , Wang Yuwei , Zhang Haibo , Jiang Zhenhua , Chen Zheng
Published: October 2018

Improvement of the interfacial compatibility between carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and a polymer matrix is a key problem in the preparation of high-performance CNTs/polymer composites, such as the CNT/poly(ether-ether ketone) (PEEK) composite. Because it contains large conjugated carbazole side chains, PAK-Cz has been shown to have an outstanding dispersive capacity for multi-walled CNTs (MWNTs; 608 mg L−1 in N-methyl pyrrolidone, which is far better than other commonly used poly(aryl ether) solubilizers). Therefore, in this work, PAK-Cz was used for the first time in MWNT/PEEK composites as a solubilizer. A series of MWNT/PEEK composites with the PAK-Cz solubilizer were prepared by simple physical blending. As expected, all of these composites exhibited better performance characteristics, such as mechanical properties, tensile strength, flexural strength and simultaneous toughening effect, than the pure PEEK material and the MWNT/PEEK (without any solubilizer) composites.
Influence of injection strategies on knock resistance and combustion characteristics in a DISI engine
Authors: Wei Haiqiao , Yu Jie , Shao Aifang , Zhou Lei , Hua Jianxiong , Feng Dengquan
Published: October 2018

The combustion of a direct injection spark ignition engine is significantly affected by the fuel injection strategy due to the impact this strategy has on the gas-mixture formation and the turbulence flow. However, comprehensive assessments on both knock and engine performances for different injection strategies are generally lacking. Therefore, the main objective of the present study is to provide an experimental evidence of how a single injection strategy and a split injection strategy compare in terms of both knock tendency and engine performances like thermal efficiency, torque and combustion stability. Starting from the optimization of a single injection strategy, a split injection strategy is then evaluated. Under the present operating conditions, an optimum secondary injection timing of 100 CAD BTDC is found to have significant improvements on both the knock resistance and the overall engine performances. It should be noted that the present results indicate that the relationship between double injection and anti-knock performance is not monotonous. In addition, the double injection shows superior potential in improving fuel economy and power performance in contrast with the single injection thanks to a more stable combustion when a late injection timing is applied.
Multi-objective optimization for ride comfort of hydro-pneumatic suspension vehicles with mechanical elastic wheel
Authors: Zhao Youqun , Xu Han , Deng Yaoji , Wang Qiuwei
Published: October 2018

The new mechanical elastic wheel has the following advantages: non-pneumatic, anti-puncture, and explosion-proof. However, the larger radial stiffness is detrimental to vehicle ride comfort. To solve this problem, an integrated design method of hydro-pneumatic suspension matching mechanical elastic wheel is proposed in this paper. First, the nonlinear radial stiffness of mechanical elastic wheel is fitted by static loading experiment. Next, the mathematical model of hydro-pneumatic suspension is derived. Then, a half-car model, integrating hydro-pneumatic suspension and mechanical elastic wheel, is established. Finally, the top two optimization objectives, including vertical centroid acceleration root mean square and pitch acceleration root mean square, are optimized simultaneously, based on the Pareto multi-objective artificial fish swarm algorithm. The obtained results show that the optimization effect of multi-objective artificial fish swarm algorithm is obvious; the two optimization objectives have been optimized significantly. The proposed method that hydro-pneumatic suspension integrated with mechanical elastic wheel gains critical reference value for the design and optimization of vehicle chassis in theory and practice.
Welfare reform by stealth? Cash benefit recipiency data and its additional value to the understanding of welfare state change in Europe
Authors: Otto Adeline , van Oorschot Wim
Published: October 2018

Trends in social protection schemes have been one of the main subjects in comparative welfare state research, not least since the financial crisis and the austerity measures that many European countries implemented in its aftermath. One of the key debates in literature is about how to measure the extent of public welfare provision as an indicator of welfare state change. Many quantitative researchers have used macro-level data on programmatic social expenditure or on the generosity of benefit rights, bringing forth major theories of welfare state retrenchment, system convergence, path dependency and paradigm changes in social policies. Recently, however, micro-level data on cash benefit receipt is seen as an alternative measure of welfare state change. Instead of gauging the cost reality of spending trends or the law reality of social rights reforms, this indicator is claimed to provide insight into changes of actual welfare receipt. This article studies benefit recipiency data from the EU Statistics on Income and Living Conditions, covering 14 European countries for the period 2003 to 2013. It investigates cross-national welfare state dynamics by analysing national receipt-based benefit access rates and transfer shares and how they relate to dynamics in the prevailing indicators. Results show how much the choice of the indicator for the dependent variable affects the results of descriptive accounts of welfare state change. In addition, findings indicate what could be called welfare state reform by stealth. In several countries, levels of unemployment benefits stay significantly behind the development of median household incomes. This observation applies particularly to countries that are believed to have generous welfare systems, and it has not been revealed by research based on disaggregated social spending data or social rights data.
Corporate Reputation: Do Board Characteristics Matter? Indian Evidence
Authors: Kaur Amanpreet , Singh Balwinder
Published: October 2018

Drawing inference from signalling theory, the study attempts to examine the relation between corporate governance and corporate reputation in the Indian context. There is hardly any study directly deciphering the impact of board attributes (like size and ownership pattern) on corporate reputation (taking market capitalisation as proxy) in India. Based on a sample of 403 Indian companies listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the results of panel regression indicate that board size and ownership pattern influence the assessment of a company’s reputation, which is in line with the findings of previous research on this issue in developed nations. It is also found that firms who allow access to institutional investors and those with larger boards exhibit better reputation. Overall, the findings of the current study support the proposition that board characteristics influence the formation of firm reputation by the business community. The study bears significant implications for corporate managers that along with improving financial performance, social performance and media visibility, they should give significant weightage to good governance and management quality (reflected through board attributes) to enhance firm reputation and gain competitive advantage over others.
Employment Trends in India
Authors: Apte Pradeep , Deshpande Medha , Gaikwad Vishal
Published: October 2018

This article explores the trends in labour force, employment and unemployment from 2000 to 2012 using NSSO data in major Indian states. Most of the states experienced acceleration in employment growth when economic growth was slow during the first quinquennium of the twenty-first century. These trends have reversed during the second quinquennium. The deceleration in growth of employment was driven mainly by decline in female employment in rural areas in almost all the states, and the withdrawal from labour market could not be fully explained in terms of its correlates. This article highlights the need to improve the data on employment and increase its frequency, and also suggests the measures.

JEL: J21
How secure are the secure psychiatric units in New South Wales?
Authors: Adams Jonathon , Thomas Stuart , Mackinnon Tobias , Eggleton Damien
Published: October 2018

Objectives:

To evaluate the therapeutic security characteristics of the secure forensic mental health inpatient units in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods:

This study evaluated all eight secure inpatient units in New South Wales using a validated tool, the Security Needs Assessment Profile.

Results:

A pattern of decreasing therapeutic security across the secure units was found, consistent with their intended security levels, from high security through to open security. However, important inconsistencies across and between levels of security were highlighted.

Conclusions:

This study clarifies the therapeutic security structure of the New South Wales forensic mental health service, which is an essential first step in service development and reform.