bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Autonomous 5-D Hyperjerk RC Circuit with Hyperbolic Sine Function
Authors: Tsafack N. , Kengne J.
Published: September 2018

A novel autonomous 5-D hyperjerk RC circuit with hyperbolic sine function is proposed in this paper. Compared to some existing 5-D systems like the 5-D Sprott B system, the 5-D Lorentz, and the Lorentz-like systems, the new system is the simplest 5-D system with complex dynamics reported to date. Its simplicity mainly relies on its nonlinear part which is synthetized using only two semiconductor diodes. The system displays only one equilibrium point and can exhibit both periodic and chaotic dynamical behavior. The complex dynamics of the system is investigated by means of bifurcation analysis. In particular, the striking phenomenon of multistability is revealed showing up to seven coexisting attractors in phase space depending solely on the system’s initial state. To the best of author’s knowledge, this rich dynamics has not yet been revealed in any 5-D dynamical system in general or particularly in any hyperjerk system. Pspice circuit simulations are performed to verify theoretical/numerical analysis.
Submucous Fibroids, Fertility, and Possible Correlation to Pseudocapsule Thickness in Reproductive Surgery
Authors: Tinelli Andrea , Kosmas Ioannis , Mynbaev Ospan A. , Favilli Alessandro , Gimbrizis Grigoris , Sparic Radmila , Pellegrino Marcello , Malvasi Antonio
Published: September 2018

Background and Objectives. Fibroids are related to infertility. Fibroid pseudocapsule is a neurovascular bundle surrounding leiomyomas rich of neurofibers involved in myometrial biology. Authors evaluated, by a case-control study, the fibroid pseudocapsule (FP) thickness by ultrasound (US) and the histological measurements, according to uterine location of fibroids. Methods. 137 consecutive patients undergoing hysterectomy for uterine myomas were enrolled and 200 myomas were evaluated. Before surgery, patients underwent an ultrasound (US) investigation to evaluate the number, the size, and the location of fibroids. After surgery, myoma-pseudocapsule-myometrium specimens were measured and evaluated by a single expert pathologist. Both US and histological data were collected and statistically analyzed. Results. Our results confirm the relevant difference of FP thickness, particularly represented under the endometrium for submucous LMs. FPs near the endometrial cavity were considerably thicker than those of both intramural fibroids and subserous fibroids measured by US (P=0.0001) and histology (P=0.0001). A clear cut-off measurement at 2 mm (P=0.0001) was found between endometrial FPs and all other FPs for either US or histology measurements. Conclusion. The thickness of FP is considerably higher near the endometrial cavity when compared to those of both intramural and subserous LMs, suggesting a potential role either in fertility or in myometrial healing.
Occupational Therapy in Complex Patients: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pellegrini Martina , Formisano Debora , Bucciarelli Veronica , Schiavi Margherita , Fugazzaro Stefania , Costi Stefania
Published: September 2018

Introduction. To determine effect size and feasibility of experimental occupational therapy (OT) intervention in addition to standard care in a population of complex patients undergoing rehabilitation in a hospital-home-based setting. Method. 40 complex patients admitted to the rehabilitation ward of the Local Health Authority-Research Institute of Reggio Emilia (Italy) were randomized in a parallel-group, open-label controlled trial. Experimental OT targeting occupational needs in the areas of self-care, productivity, and leisure was delivered by occupational therapists. Standard care consisted of task-oriented rehabilitation delivered by a multiprofessional team. Results. The experimental OT intervention was completed by 75% of patients assigned to this group. The average changes in the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) performance score significantly and clinically favored experimental OT [−3,06 (−4.50; −1.61); delta>2 points, resp.]. Similar trends were detected for COPM satisfaction and independence in instrumental activities of daily living (ADL). At follow-up, level of social participation was higher for patients treated with experimental OT (p=0.043) than for controls. Conclusions. Experimental OT was feasible in complex patients in a hospital-home-based setting. It ameliorated both patients’ performance and satisfaction in carrying out relevant activities and improved independence in instrumental ADL. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02677766.
Diversity and Niche of Archaea in Bioremediation
Authors: Krzmarzick Mark James , Taylor David Kyle , Fu Xiang , McCutchan Aubrey Lynn
Published: September 2018

Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms for the degradation or removal of contaminants. Most bioremediation research has focused on processes performed by the domainBacteria; however,Archaeaare known to play important roles in many situations. In extreme conditions, such as halophilic or acidophilic environments,Archaeaare well suited for bioremediation. In other conditions,Archaeacollaboratively work alongsideBacteriaduring biodegradation. In this review, the various roles thatArchaeahave in bioremediation is covered, including halophilic hydrocarbon degradation, acidophilic hydrocarbon degradation, hydrocarbon degradation in nonextreme environments such as soils and oceans, metal remediation, acid mine drainage, and dehalogenation. Research needs are addressed in these areas. Beyond bioremediation, these processes are important for wastewater treatment (particularly industrial wastewater treatment) and help in the understanding of the natural microbial ecology of severalArchaeagenera.
Broadband Frost Adaptive Array Antenna with a Farrow Delay Filter
Authors: Dong Tao , Wang Qiushi , Zhao Yunxiao , Ji Lixia , Zeng Hao
Published: September 2018

In a broadband adaptive array antenna with a space-time filter, a delay filter is required before digital beamforming when the Frost algorithm is used to obtain the weight vector. In this paper, we propose a Farrow structure instead of a direct form FIR structure to implement the time delay filter since it can satisfy the demand for real-time update and is very suited for the FPGA platform. Furthermore, a new off-line algorithm to calculate the Farrow filter coefficient is presented if the filter coefficient is symmetric. Finally, simulations are presented to illustrate that the design methodology for the Farrow filter is correct. The simulations also prove that the Frost broadband adaptive antenna effectively mitigates the interferences with a Farrow filter.
MRI Findings of Early Myositis Ossificans without Calcification or Ossification
Authors: Wang Hexiang , Nie Pei , Li Yang , Hou Feng , Dong Cheng , Huang Yonghua , Hao Dapeng
Published: September 2018

Purpose. To characterize and evaluate the MR imaging features of early myositis ossificans (MO) without calcification or ossification. Methods. The MRI manifestations of seven patients with pathologically proven early MO were retrospectively analyzed with regard to tumor location, size, margins, signal intensity, and enhancement appearance in MR images. Additionally, the surrounding soft-tissue edema and adjacent bone change were assessed. Results. All cases (n=7) had intramuscular tumor-like masses without calcifications. The lesions appeared as isointense in T1-weighted images (T1-WI) and inhomogeneous hyperintense in T2-weighted MR images (T2-WI). On T2-WI and postcontrast T1-WI, the heterogeneously high signal intensity in the expanded muscle interspersed with a few hypointense linear structures consistent with intact muscle fibers showed “striate pattern” in the plane parallel with muscle fibers. The relatively hypointense areas with geometrical pattern consistent with the bundles of intact muscle fibers are found within the lesion with diffuse high signal intensity, displaying the “checkerboard-like pattern” in the plane vertical to muscle fibers. A “striate pattern” (n = 7) and “checkerboard-like pattern” (n = 3) in the lesion appeared in T2-WI. In contrast-enhanced MRI images, all cases showed diffuse “striate pattern” enhancement. Among them, one case demonstrated “checkerboard-like pattern” enhancement. All cases had diffuse and prominent muscle edema that preserved the muscle fascicles. For two lesions located in the deep muscle group, the adjacent bone showed bone marrow edema. Conclusion. MR imaging has unique advantages for diagnosis of early MO without calcification or ossification: the “striate pattern” and “checkerboard-like pattern” appearance shown in T2-WI and contrast-enhanced MRI images can be helpful for differential diagnosis. MRI can delineate the extent of the tumor and provides accurate anatomical information, which is important in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
The State‐of‐the‐Art Review on Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Asphalt Binder
Authors: Qu Xin , Wang Dawei , Wang Linbing , Huang Yucheng , Hou Yue , Oeser Markus
Published: September 2018

Asphalt pavement has been widely used in the world. As the main components of asphalt pavement, the asphalt binder is crucial to the service performance and life of the road. In the past decades, numerous studies were conducted on technical performance, aging, and modification of the asphalt binder. With the development of modern technology, it was discovered that the microscopic properties, aging mechanism, and modification mechanism of the asphalt binder affect the macroscopic performance of asphalt pavement significantly. As a new emerging powerful numerical tool, the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation has been developed to study the asphalt binder material from a micro perspective. Based on the previous studies, some average asphalt binder models, fractional asphalt binder models, aged asphalt binder models, and modifier models were proposed by many researchers, which have made remarkable progress in asphalt studies; the microproperties, aging mechanism, and modification mechanism of the asphalt binder can also be analyzed using the MD simulation. Overall, the state‐of‐the‐art review provides a comprehensive view for the readers to better understand the development, establishment, and application of the asphalt molecular model.
Potential Sustainable Properties of Microencapsulated Endophytic Lactic Acid Bacteria (KCC-42) in In-Vitro Simulated Gastrointestinal Juices and Their Fermentation Quality of Radish Kimchi
Authors: Song Chae Eun , Shim Han Hyo , Kuppusamy Palaniselvam , Jeong Young-IL , Lee Kyung Dong
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate alginate microencapsulated lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation quality of radish kimchi sample and its potential survivability in different acidic and alkaline environments. Initially, we isolated 45 LAB strains. One of them showed fast growth pattern with potential probiotic and antifungal activities against Aspergillus flavus with a zone of inhibition calculated with 10, 8, 4mm for the 4th, 5th, and 6th day, respectively. Therefore, this strain (KCC-42) was chosen for microencapsulation with alginate biopolymer. It showed potential survivability in in-vitro simulated gastrointestinal fluid and radish kimchi fermentation medium. The survival rate of this free and encapsulated LAB KCC-42 was 6.85 × 105 and 7.48× 105 CFU/ml, respectively; the viability count was significantly higher than nonencapsulated LAB in simulated gastrointestinal juices (acid, bile, and pancreatin) and under radish kimchi fermentation environment. Kimchi sample added with this encapsulated LAB showed increased production of organic acids compared to nonencapsulated LAB sample. Also, the organic acids such as lactic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, and succinic acid production in fermented kimchi were measured 59mM, 26mM, 14mM, and 0.6mM of g/DW, respectively. The production of metabolites such as lactic acid, acetic acid, and succinic acid and the bacteria population was high in microencapsulated LAB samples compared with free bacteria added kimchi sample. Results of this study indicate that microencapsulated LAB KCC-42 might be a useful strategy to develop products for food and healthcare industries.
Transcutaneous Puncture of an Undeflatable Coronary Angioplasty Balloon Catheter
Authors: Leibundgut Gregor , Degen Christian , Riede Florian
Published: September 2018

This case report describes a quick and safe method to successfully retrieve an undeflatable angioplasty balloon via the transradial access site. The article also presents potential mechanisms of contrast media entrapment and bench tests of guidewire-assisted balloon puncture. After successful stent implantation in the proximal right coronary artery in a 74-year-old female patient referred for acute coronary syndrome, the balloon catheter became undeflatable for an unknown reason. Several attempts to burst the balloon in the guide catheter and the aorta failed. After a pullback into the radial artery, the still inflated balloon became stuck again and was unable to be retrieved through the sheath. Finally, transcutaneous puncture and aspiration of contrast media with a 23 gauge syringe needle through the skin in the right forearm allowed deflation and successful removal the balloon.
Usefulness of EEG Techniques in Distinguishing Frontotemporal Dementia from Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias
Authors: Nardone Raffaele , Sebastianelli Luca , Versace Viviana , Saltuari Leopold , Lochner Piergiorgio , Frey Vanessa , Golaszewski Stefan , Brigo Francesco , Trinka Eugen , Höller Yvonne
Published: September 2018

The clinical distinction of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may be difficult. In this narrative review we summarize and discuss the most relevant electroencephalography (EEG) studies which have been applied to demented patients with the aim of distinguishing the various types of cognitive impairment. EEG studies revealed that patients at an early stage of FTD or AD displayed different patterns in the cortical localization of oscillatory activity across different frequency bands and in functional connectivity. Both classical EEG spectral analysis and EEG topography analysis are able to differentiate the different dementias at group level. The combination of standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) and power parameters seems to improve the sensitivity, but spectral and connectivity biomarkers able to differentiate single patients have not yet been identified. The promising EEG findings should be replicated in larger studies, but could represent an additional useful, noninvasive, and reproducible diagnostic tool for clinical practice.
The Iron-Klotho-VDR Axis Is a Major Determinant of Proximal Convoluted Tubule Injury in Haptoglobin 2-2 Genotype Diabetic Nephropathy Patients and Mice
Authors: Dahan Inbal , Thawho Nadia , Farber Evgeny , Nakhoul Nakhoul , Asleh Rabea , Levy Andrew P. , Li Yan Chun , Ben-Izhak Ofer , Nakhoul Farid
Published: September 2018

The haptoglobin (Hp) genotype (1-1 and 2-2) is a major determinant of nephropathy progression in diabetes mellitus patients. Hp 2-2 diabetic mice have impaired Hb clearance and increased iron deposits and oxidative stress in the proximal tubules (PCT), leading to increased renal injury. However, the precise mechanism of the PCT injury in diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains elusive. In the kidney, 1,25(OH)2D3 suppresses the inflammatory response to renal tubular injury and requires normal renal expression of theα-klotho protein. In this study, we set out to test the hypothesis that the increased renal iron deposits in the PCT of Hp 2-2 DN affect theα-klotho-vitamin D receptor (VDR) axis and thereby exacerbates the PCT injury generated by the iron deposits. Immunohistochemical analysis of human and mouse kidney biopsies along with western blot analysis showed that the increased iron deposits in the PCT of the Hp 2-2 genotype were accompanied with significantly decreasedα-klotho and VDR renal expression but significantly increased 1-α-hydroxylase renal expression. In conclusion, the iron-klotho-VDR axis is a major player in the mechanism contributing to iron-mediated PCT injury in diabetic Hp 2-2 mice and patients. Targeting this axis may open the way for new ideas regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of DN.
Combined Effects of Thermal Radiation and Nanoparticles on Free Convection Flow and Heat Transfer of Casson Fluid over a Vertical Plate
Authors: Sobamowo M. G.
Published: September 2018

The influences of thermal radiation and nanoparticles on free convection flow and heat transfer of Casson nanofluids over a vertical plate are investigated. The governing systems of nonlinear partial differential equations of the flow and heat transfer processes are converted to systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations through similarity transformations. The resulting systems of fully coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations are solved using the differential transformation method with Padé-approximant technique. The accuracies of the developed analytical methods are verified by comparing their results with the results of past works as presented in the literature. Thereafter, the analytical solutions are used to investigate the effects of thermal radiation, Prandtl number, nanoparticle volume fraction, shape, and type on the flow and heat transfer behaviour of various nanofluids over the flat plate. It is observed that both the velocity and temperature of the nanofluid as well as the viscous and thermal boundary layers increase with increase in the thermal radiation parameter. The velocity of the nanofluid decreases and the temperature of the nanofluid increase, respectively, as the Prandtl number and volume fraction of the nanoparticles in the base fluid increase. The decrease in velocity and increase in temperature are highest in lamina-shaped nanoparticle and followed by platelet-, cylinder-, brick-, and sphere-shaped nanoparticles, respectively. Using a common base fluid to all the nanoparticle types, it is established that the decrease in velocity and increase in temperature are highest in TiO2 and followed by CuO, Al2O3, and SWCNT nanoparticles, in that order. It is hoped that the present study will enhance the understanding of free convection boundary layer problems of Casson fluid under the influences of thermal radiation and nanoparticles as applied in various engineering processes.
Effect of Microstructure and Exothermic Reaction on the Thermal Convection in an Enclosure of Nanoliquid with Continuous and Discontinuous Heating from below
Authors: Alhashash Abeer
Published: September 2018

Effect of continuous and discontinuous external heating and internal exothermic reaction on thermal convection of micropolar nanoliquid is studied in the present work. The liquid in the enclosure is a water-based nanoliquid containing Cu nanoparticles. The governing equations are solved numerically using the iterative finite difference method (FDM). The studied parameters are the material viscosity (0≤K≤6), nanoparticles volume fraction (0.0≤ϕ≤0.2), and the internal heating (0.0≤G≤2.0). It is found that the convective flow acceleration by adding nanoparticles is retarded by the microrotation and the suppression has a great impact on the weak exothermic reaction for both cases. Increasing the internal reaction decreases the heat transfer rate at the hot wall but increases the heat transfer rate at the cool wall for both cases, Newtonian or micropolar nanoliquid.
Chemokine Subversion by Human Herpesviruses
Authors: Pontejo Sergio M. , Murphy Philip M. , Pease James E.
Published: September 2018

Viruses use diverse molecular mechanisms to exploit and evade the immune response. Herpesviruses, in particular, encode functional chemokine and chemokine receptor homologs pirated from the host, as well as secreted chemokine-binding proteins with unique structures. Multiple functions have been described for herpesvirus chemokine components, including attraction of target cells, blockade of leukocyte migration, and modulation of gene expression and cell entry by the virus. Here we review current concepts about how human herpesvirus chemokines, chemokine receptors, and chemokine-binding proteins may be used to shape a proviral state in the host.
Understanding the Biology and Pathogenesis of the Kidney by Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Ye Yuting , Song Hui , Zhang Jiong , Shi Shaolin
Published: September 2018

Background: Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) has recently emerged as a revolutionary and powerful tool for biomedical research. However, there have been relatively few studies using scRNA-seq in the field of kidney study. Summary: scRNA-seq achieves gene expression profiling at single-cell resolution in contrast with the conventional methods of gene expression profiling, which are based on cell population and give averaged values of gene expression of the cells. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis is crucial because individual cells of the same type are highly heterogeneous in gene expression, which reflects the existence of subpopulations, different cellular states, or molecular dynamics, of the cells, and should be resolved for further insights. In addition, gene expression analysis of tissues or organs that usually comprise multiple cell types or subtypes results in data that are not fully applicable to any given cell type. scRNA-seq is capable of identifying all cell types and subtypes in a tissue, including those that are new or present in small quantity. With these unique capabilities, scRNA-seq has been used to dissect molecular processes in cell differentiation and to trace cell lineages in development. It is also used to analyze the cells in a lesion of disease to identify the cell types and molecular dynamics implicated in the injury. With continuous technical improvement, scRNA-seq has become extremely high throughput and cost effective, making it accessible to all laboratories. In the present review article, we provide an overall review of scRNA-seq concerning its history, improvements, and applications. In addition, we describe the available studies in which scRNA-seq was employed in the field of kidney research. Lastly, we discuss other potential uses of scRNA-seq for kidney research. Key Message: This review article provides general information on scRNA-seq and its various uses. Particularly, we summarize the studies in the field of kidney diseases in which scRNA-seq was used and discuss potential additional uses of scRNA-seq for kidney research.
Toxic Action Reevaluation of Okadaic Acid, Dinophysistoxin-1 and Dinophysistoxin-2: Toxicity Equivalency Factors Based on the Oral Toxicity Study
Authors: Abal Paula , Louzao M. Carmen , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Watanabe Ryuichi , Vilariño Natalia , Carrera Cristina , Botana Ana M. , Vieytes Mercedes R. , Botana Luis M.
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Okadaic acid (OA) and the structurally related compounds dinophysistoxin-1 (DTX1) and dinophysistoxin-2 (DTX2) are marine phycotoxins that cause diarrheic shellfish poisoning (DSP) in humans due to ingestion of contaminated shellfish. In order to guarantee consumer protection, the regulatory authorities have defined the maximum level of DSP toxins as 160 µg OA equivalent kg-1 shellfish meat. For risk assessment and overall toxicity determination, knowledge of the relative toxicities of each analogue is required. In absence of enough information from human intoxications, oral toxicity in mice is the most reliable data for establishing Toxicity Equivalence Factors (TEFs). Methods: Toxins were administered to mice by gavage, after that the symptomatology and mice mortality was registered over a period of 24 h. Organ damage data were collected at necropsy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for ultrastructural studies. Toxins in urine, feces and blood were analyzed by HPLC-MS/MS. The evaluation of in vitro potencies of OA, DTX1 and DTX2 was performed by the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) inhibition assay. Results: Mice that received DSP toxins by gavage showed diarrhea as the main symptom. Those toxins caused similar gastrointestinal alterations as well as intestine ultrastructural changes. However, DSP toxins did not modify tight junctions to trigger diarrhea. They had different toxicokinetics and toxic potency. The lethal dose 50 (LD50) was 487 µg kg-1 bw for DTX1, 760 µg kg-1 bw for OA and 2262 µg kg-1 bw for DTX2. Therefore, the oral TEF values are: OA = 1, DTX1 = 1.5 and DTX2 = 0.3. Conclusion: This is the first comparative study of DSP toxins performed with accurate well-characterized standards and based on acute toxicity data. Results confirmed that DTX1 is more toxic than OA by oral route while DTX2 is less toxic. Hence, the current TEFs based on intraperitoneal toxicity should be modified. Also, the generally accepted toxic mode of action of this group of toxins needs to be reevaluated.
Homoparentalidade
Authors: Ribeiro Camila Makálister , Mendes Lívia Rodrigues , Couto Daniela Paula do , Azevedo Jane Moreira de
Published: September 2018

Trata-se de uma investigação teórica que objetivou compreender os impactos na constituição psíquica da criança adotada por um casal homoafetivo. Apresentam-se os avanços relacionados à viabilidade jurídica desse tipo de adoção e, a partir da teoria psicanalítica, destaca-se a importância das funções parentais na constituição psíquica, uma vez que são exercidas na ordem do simbólico, interligando-se ao desejo e à significação da criança e não necessariamente submetidas ao real da anatomia do par parental. As considerações finais apontam para a necessidade de uma ampla discussão sobre a família homoparental e destaca o papel do psicólogo na compreensão dessa organização familiar.
O pequeno Freud e o Complexo de Édipo
Authors: Loures José Maurício Teixeira , Borges Sonia Xavier de Almeida
Published: September 2018

É inegável na experiência clínica que o destino de Édipo ecoa em cada paciente, pelo reconhecimento de seus desejos criminosos: o parricídio e o incesto. Este artigo faz um retorno ao complexo de Édipo a partir da análise feita por Freud de um sonho que teve aos sete ou oito anos de idade, em que reconhece em si os mesmos desejos proibidos que marcaram o destino de Édipo na tragédia de Sófocles.
Autismo, psicanálise e prevenção
Authors: Machado Letícia Vier
Published: September 2018

A recente visibilidade do autismo reflete mudanças nos manuais diagnósticos e a valorização de políticas da primeira infância, com ênfase na prevenção. O objetivo do artigo é articular prevenção e conceitos psicanalíticos sobre desenvolvimento psíquico, com enfoque no autismo. Discute-se a ideia de prevenção na psicanálise e apresenta-se a possibilidade de prevenção de sinais de risco a partir dos indicadores: perturbações no olhar, não instauração do terceiro tempo do circuito pulsional e brincar como acesso à intersubjetividade. Conclui-se que a identificação dos sinais de risco não deve ser utilizada para determinar precocemente um déficit, mas para promover o desenvolvimento.
O higienismo moderno e a práxis do psicanalista na polis
Authors: Fonseca Paula Fontana
Published: September 2018

A proposta do presente artigo é abordar a retomada do ideário higienista que ocorre na atualidade sob e égide do Discurso Universitário. Com o intuito de demonstrar como este empreendimento tem ocorrido nas políticas públicas voltadas à primeira infância, analisaremos o Programa “Criança Feliz” que foi formulado em 2016 pelo Governo Federal. Para tanto, discorreremos sobre a proposição dos discursos feita por Lacan, dando ênfase para o discurso Universitário - ou do mestre moderno – e Capitalista. Temos por objetivo analisar a lógica vigente e suas consequências para a práxis do psicanalista na polis.
Lies, defeasibility and morality-in-action: The interactional architecture of false claims in sales, telemarketing and debt collection work
Authors: Llewellyn Nick , Whittle Andrea
Published: September 2018

Lying is known to be endemic in a range of business settings. However, to date, studies have not analysed how lies surface, and are spontaneously managed, in ‘real time’ interaction. Drawing on video and audio recordings, in this article we analyse how actors account for false claims produced in different settings, namely sales, telemarketing and debt collection. Drawing on resources from ethnomethodology and conversation analysis, lies are conceptualized as products of interactional organization, rather than, say, products of the mind or motives of social actors. Our analysis reveals the centrality of ‘epistemics’ for understanding how people handle, and seek to neutralize, the moral risks associated with false claims. Potential accusations of ‘lying’ are shown to be defeasible in light of claims that the speaker has ‘discovered’, ‘noticed’ or ‘remembered’ some pertinent detail. We recover practices through which false claims are transformed, with varying degrees of success, from nefarious to innocent accountings. We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for wider questions about the reproduction of work cultures that rely upon deceit.
Failing border crossings and cosmopolitanism in Brian Chikwava’s Harare North
Authors: Toivanen Anna-Leena
Published: September 2018

This article discusses Brian Chikwava’s novel Harare North (2009) and its representations of unsuccessful border crossings from the perspective of cosmopolitanism. I argue that through the unnamed protagonist’s inability or his own unwillingness to cross different material and symbolic borders, the novel gives articulation to the failure of such cosmopolitan ideals as openness to otherness, acknowledgement of one’s own position in the world, and active engagement in transcultural encounters. Chikwava’s protagonist seems to be constantly on the “wrong” side of any border that he encounters. As such, he is the unwanted abject figure on whose exclusion different normative subjectivities are constructed. By addressing the problematics of border crossings and cosmopolitan ideals in a globalized world which is increasingly interconnected but also marked by the proliferation and multiplication of borders, this article draws attention to the intertwined issues of mobility and the processes of transculturation that mobility should ideally entail. In so doing, this essay criticizes simplistic tendencies to equate cosmopolitanism with transnational mobility and reduce cosmopolitanism to a mere identity position — a feature that can be observed in current discussions concerning Afropolitanism. Chikwava’s novel points at the fact that crossing boundaries and adopting cosmopolitan ethics is not always easy, nor necessarily even desired by those on the move.
Primary Biological Motivators in Food Advertisements: Energy Density and Sexual Appeals Compete for Appetitive Motivational Activation
Authors: Bailey Rachel L. , Liu Jiawei , Wang Tianjiao
Published: September 2018

Energy density of food potentiates appetitive responses due to biologically driven behaviors that encourage energy conservation. Sexual stimuli potentiate appetitive responses due to biologically imperative needs to pass on genetic information. This article examined how these primary biological motivators, when presented together, influenced individuals’ responses to food advertisements. Competing hypotheses were developed using communication and behavioral ecology theory and tested in two studies. Young adults viewed food advertisements that varied in presence of sex appeal and the energy density level of the food advertised. Psychophysiological responses, recognition memory, and self-reported emotional experience data were obtained. In general, results support an ecological interpretation in which these motivators can be viewed as competing rather than additive. Furthermore, sex of the viewer plays a role in response to these motivators that may be attributable to differences in the costs of procreative activities for males and females.
“That’s Not the Only Reason I’m Watching the Game”: Women’s (Hetero)Sexual Desire and Sports Fandom
Authors: Esmonde Katelyn , Cooky Cheryl , Andrews David L.
Published: September 2018

Women make up increasingly large proportions of fan bases of the most popular spectator sports in the United States and are recognized as a viable marketing segment. Despite their growing cultural and economic presence, scholars have noted the stereotypical assumptions women sports fans routinely experience, particularly with regard to the widely held assumption that women’s interest in men’s sport is primarily motivated by heterosexual attraction to male athletes. Recently, feminist scholars have begun to investigate the role of heterosexual desire in shaping the experiences of women sports fans. Building on this literature, we examine the role of heterosexuality in women’s fandom of men’s sports, bringing to our research the feminist articulations of contradiction and a both/and ethos. In doing so, we empirically interrogate popular understandings of the role that women’s heterosexual sexual desire plays in the consumption of men’s sports through an examination of the lived experiences of women fans. Drawing on qualitative semistructured interviews with 11 self-identified women sports fans, we found that the participants navigated the marginalization of women’s heterosexuality in sport fandom in four ways: by positioning the sexualization of athletes as antithetical to fandom, by challenging the exclusion of women’s heterosexuality in the fan cultures surrounding men’s sports, by discussing their own experiences of sexualizing athletes with guilt or ambivalence, and by downplaying the role that sexual attraction plays in their own fandom. We conclude that the marginalization of women sports fans’ heterosexual desire within the institutional center of sports denies important facets of their experience and thereby upholds normative understandings of gendered sexuality that underpin masculine hegemony in sport.
Sex differences in romantic attachment among Chinese: A meta-analysis
Authors: Li Dongju , Shu Cong , Chen Xu
Published: September 2018

Although several studies support evolutionary perspectives on sex differences in romantic attachment, these sex differences in East Asia remain controversial. To estimate the effect size of sex differences in romantic attachment among Chinese adults, a meta-analysis of sex differences was conducted in the present study. This meta-analysis was based on 111 samples using the Chinese version of the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale and its revised version. The findings suggest that the effect size of sex differences in romantic attachment among Chinese adults is relatively small. Overall, females demonstrated higher anxiety and avoidance than males, with substantial between-study heterogeneity. Sex differences were largest in community samples, with higher avoidance and lower anxiety in males. There were smaller sex differences in college student samples, with higher anxiety and avoidance in females. The degree of sex differences also varied across geographical regions, with high-stress and high-fertility reproductive environments showing smaller sex differences in general and larger sex differences in extreme conditions. Sex differences in anxiety increased linearly with age, whereas those in avoidance remained unchanged. The results support evolutionary perspectives of sex differences in romantic attachment, which assume that the average sex differences in romantic attachment styles should be relatively small in most populations, and many possible factors might moderate such differences. The heterogeneity and limitations of the current findings and directions for future research on sex differences in romantic attachment are discussed.
What do we know about crisis, escalation and war? A visual assessment of the International Crisis Behavior Project
Authors: James Patrick
Published: September 2018

This study uses a visualization technique, systemism, to integrate ICB Project findings about crisis, escalation and war in particular. The domain of the analysis, 1999–2017, is the period following the authoritative review of research in Michael Brecher (1999; International studies in the twentieth century and beyond: Flawed dichotomies, syntheses, cumulation, International Studies Quarterly 43: 213–264) up to the present. Systemism is used to combine, in graphic form, substantively significant results from ICB Project research. Insights about cause and effect for escalation processes are obtained that would not readily be available in the absence of graphic representation. This learning is made possible through application of systemism, a visualization technique, to convey a network of variables leading into war.
Aerodynamic optimization design of aspirated highly loaded fan stage
Authors: Zhang Jinhuan , Zhou Zhenggui , Cui Cui
Published: September 2018

In this paper, an aerodynamic design method for an aspirated compressor/fan is developed. In the S2 through-flow design, the loss feedback is used to solve the inapplicability of the conventional loss model. In S1 profile design, an optimization design method is constructed in which the profile and the suction flow parameters are simultaneously handled as design parameters to couple the optimization design. A 3D optimization method is used to modify the profiles at the hub and tip of the rotor blade and the sweep and lean of the stator blade. An aspirated highly loaded fan stage (load coefficient of 0.69) was designed using the design method. A flow field simulation shows that at the design point, with a modest suction flow (4.84% of the inlet mass flow), very high isentropic efficiency (0.9213) is achieved, and the total pressure ratio (3.445) achieves its design goal (3.40), but the mass flow rate of the designed fan stage is 6.2% lower than the design goal. From the comparisons between the 2D flow fields on the S1 stream surfaces and the 3D flow fields at the corresponding blade spans, it is concluded that the flow presents nearly a form of a 2D S1 stream surface at most of the spans, and the 2D design method which is based on the S1/S2 stream surface in this paper is effective. Moreover, the flow is analyzed around the rotor root of the aspirated rotor, revealing a weak flow capacity in that area. This result suggests that desirable flow might not be set up when the designed profile has a large camber at the rotor blade root because the total pressure ratio cannot be improved without compromising the static pressure ratio.
Healthy Eating for Obese Children From Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Families: Its Ecological Factors and Strategies
Authors: Park Sooyeon , Choo Jina , Chang Sung Ok
Published: September 2018

Introduction: Researchers explored the meanings of “eating” for obese children from socioeconomically disadvantaged families and identified multilevel factors and strategies for their healthy eating based on ecological perspectives. Methodology: Grounded on a qualitative research design, focus group interviews were conducted with each group of key stakeholders: obese children, their mothers, and social workers from public welfare systems in South Korea. Results: “Eating” and “healthy eating” were defined as “fulfilling deprivations” and “integrating balance into their lives,” respectively. Eight factors and four strategies for their healthy eating were identified at intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and community/political levels. Discussion: These findings may help nurses in Western culture understand the cultural context of obese children’s eating embedded in socioeconomically disadvantaged families and public welfare systems in Asian culture. Furthermore, these findings provide specific guides to culturally relevant, multilevel strategies for promoting healthy eating in the field of childhood obesity prevention.
Systemic Corticosteroid and Antibiotic Use in Hospitalized Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbation
Authors: Petite Sarah E. , Murphy Julie A.
Published: September 2018

Background: Effective inpatient chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation management is critical to appropriately manage health care resources. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines provide recommendations on appropriate systemic corticosteroid and antibiotic use, in select patients, for COPD exacerbation. Objective: To determine the impact of GOLD guideline–recommended systemic corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy in the hospital setting on clinical outcomes in patients with COPD exacerbation. Methods: This was a noninterventional, retrospective, single-center study. Adults admitted to a non–intensive care unit internal medicine service with documented COPD exacerbation were included. Two analyses were conducted evaluating systemic corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy. Results: A total of 220 patients were included in the systemic corticosteroid cohort. No difference in 30-day readmission rates was demonstrated for the standard (⩽200 mg prednisone equivalents [PEs] for exacerbation course) and high-dose groups (>200 mg PEs; 20.5% vs 13.1%, respectively; P = 0.15). Hospital length of stay (LOS) was significantly shorter for patients prescribed standard-dose therapy (3 days [2-4.5] vs 4 days [2-6]; P < 0.001). A total of 174 patients were included in the antibiotic cohort. For the appropriate and inappropriate antibiotic use groups, no significant differences were observed between 30-day readmission rates (15% vs 18.4%, respectively; P = 0.57) and hospital LOS (4 days [2-5] in both groups; P = 0.97). Conclusion and Relevance: Hospital LOS was shorter for patients prescribed standard-dose systemic corticosteroids; however, no differences in other clinical outcomes were found in either cohort. Use of guideline-recommended systemic corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy is recommended for hospitalized patients with COPD exacerbation.
Bioptics for high hyperopia with combined multifocal intraocular lens implantation and excimer ablation in young patients
Authors: Trivizki Omer , Smadja David , Mimouni Michael , Levinger Samuel , Levinger Eliya
Published: September 2018

Purpose:

To analyze the visual and refractive outcome of the bioptics procedure combining multifocal intraocular lens implantation and excimer laser surgery in young patients with high hyperopic eyes not suitable for a single surgical procedure.

Methods:

This retrospective case series included 10 eyes of five patients (age range 18–30 years) with high hyperopia (spherical equivalent +8.51 ± 0.85 diopters (D)). They had been treated with serial multifocal intraocular lens implantation followed 6 weeks later by laser in situ keratomileusis for residual hyperopia. Uncorrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, corrected near visual acuity, and manifest refraction were evaluated before surgeries, after multifocal intraocular lens implantation, and 3 months post laser in situ keratomileusis.

Results:

No patients were lost to follow-up (6 months). The mean spherical equivalent decreased to +2.05 ± 1.33 D after multifocal intraocular lens implantation and to −0.10 ± 0.58 D after the laser in situ keratomileusis procedure. Success of the procedures was determined by uncorrected visual acuity. LogMAR uncorrected distance visual acuity improved by a total of more than six lines from 1.05 ± 0.18 LogMAR to 0.46 ± 0.12 LogMAR post multifocal intraocular lens implantation and to 0.15 ± 0.06 LogMAR after both surgeries. The LogMAR uncorrected near visual acuity increased by 0.81 ± 0.82 LogMAR after lens implantation due to loss of accommodation, and all eyes reached a LogMAR of 0 at 1 month postoperatively following laser in situ keratomileusis.

Conclusions:

A bioptics approach involving multifocal intraocular lens followed 6 weeks later by a laser in situ keratomileusis procedure for the correction of very high hyperopia enabled the resolution of the residual refractive error in young very high hyperopic patients.
Efficacy and Safety of Valsartan or Chlorthalidone vs. Combined Valsartan and Chlorthalidone in Patients With Mild to Moderate Hypertension: The VACLOR Study
Authors: Manzur Fernando , Rico Andrés , Romero Juan Diego , Rodriguez-Martinez Carlos E
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of valsartan (V) or chlorthalidone (C) monotherapy in comparison with a fixed combination of valsartan and chlorthalidone (V + C).

Methods:

This 12-week multicenter randomized three-arm open-label study randomly allocated 72 patients to V or C as monotherapy or a combination of V + C. The aim was to measure changes in office systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and in 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) from baseline to week 12, in addition to medication tolerability.

Results:

The proportion of patients achieving target BP in office at week 12 was not statistically different for the three groups. However, comparisons of daytime and nighttime 24-hour ABPM values from baseline to week 12 revealed significant differences in nighttime mean SBP for the three groups, due to a significantly greater reduction in the values in patients assigned to the V + C group (−14.7 vs. −8.7 vs. −10.7, P = .042, V+C; V; C, respectively). Although patients assigned to the V + C group also had greater nighttime reduction in mean DBP values compared with those in the other groups, this difference was not statistically significant. The incidence of adverse events did not differ significantly.

Conclusion:

In patients with hypertension treated with V, C, and both medications combined, the fixed combination of V + C provided a significantly greater reduction of late night to early morning BP values when interventions were assessed with 24-hour ABPM.

Trial registration:

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT.01850160, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01850160
Joint bank accounts and survivorship
Authors: Stanton Keith
Published: September 2018

Who is beneficially entitled to the money deposited in a joint bank account? In the great majority of cases, it is clear that the money is jointly owned and will pass on the death of one of the account holders to the survivor. However, things are not always simple and the law then has to decide as to the ownership of the money in a dispute between the surviving account holder and the estate of the deceased. The decision of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in Whitlock v Moree, a case on appeal from the Court of Appeal of the Bahamas is the latest decision on this topic.
Evoked Potentials Investigations of Deficit Versus Nondeficit Schizophrenia: EEG-MEG Preliminary Data
Authors: Boutros Nash N. , Gjini Klevest , Wang Frank , Bowyer Susan M.
Published: September 2018

Heterogeneity of schizophrenia is a major obstacle toward understanding the disorder. One likely subtype is the deficit syndrome (DS) where patients suffer from predominantly negative symptoms. This study investigated the evoked responses and the evoked magnetic fields to identify the neurophysiological deviations associated with the DS. Ten subjects were recruited for each group (Control, DS, and Nondeficit schizophrenia [NDS]). Subjects underwent magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG) testing while listening to an oddball paradigm to generate the P300 as well as a paired click paradigm to generate the mid-latency auditory-evoked responses (MLAER) in a sensory gating paradigm. MEG–coherence source imaging (CSI) during P300 task revealed a significantly higher average coherence value in DS than NDS subjects in the gamma band (30-80 Hz), when listening to standard stimuli but only NDS subjects had a higher average coherence level in the gamma band than controls when listening to the novel sounds. P50, N100, and P3a ERP amplitudes (EEG analysis) were significantly decreased in NDS compared with DS subjects. The data suggest that the deviations in the 2 patient groups are qualitatively different. Deviances in NDS patients suggest difficulty in both early (as in the gating paradigm), as well as later top-down processes (P300 paradigm). The main deviation in the DS group was an exaggerated responsiveness to ongoing irrelevant stimuli detected by EEG whereas NDS subjects had an exaggerated response to novelty.