bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Narratives of Post-Apartheid Gender Deconstruction
Authors: Zuhmboshi Eric Nsuh
Published: October 2016

This essay aims generally at examining the relationship between literary discourse and nation-building. In specific terms, the aim has been to show the place of the post-apartheid South African woman in the development and progress of her nation. Using the theoretical paradigm of liberal feminism, the premise is defended that woman in post-apartheid society, as she is depicted in None to Accompany Me, Red Dust, and Playing in the Light, is not a passive observer of political and social issues in her society. Rather, she is a veritable partner for national development, nation-building, and social progress. Consequently, she also participates in the development of South African society alongside her male counterpart. The above authors thus portray the South African woman at the nucleus of policy-making and decision-taking in her society. This affirmative portrayal reinforces the view that gender construction is an old dogma and should be discarded for meaningful development to flow in the post-apartheid context.
Does the European Union Have New Clothes?: Understanding the EU’s New Investment Treaty Model
Authors: Dickson-Smith Kyle Dylan
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this article is to critically analyse the methodology and impact of the investment chapter the European Union (EU) proposed for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). It focusses on the innovations of an appellate body and the incorporation of a ‘right to regulate’-provision, as well as general exceptions that are very similar to Article XX of the GATT. In light of the development that these features have been replicated in the CETA and the EU-Vietnam FTA, it questions why the EU is changing the traditional form of investor-State arbitration in a preferential trade and investment agreement and whether the EU’s model is viable, and formulated on a robust design that will stand the test of time.
Miconia portogallensis (Melastomataceae) a new species from the Sierra Madre del Sur, Guerrero, Mexico
Authors: DE SANTIAGO GÓMEZ JESÚS RICARDO , MICHELANGELI FABIÁN A.
Published: October 2016

Miconia portogallensis, a new dioecious species of Miconia section Cremanium from the Sierra Madre del Sur of Guerrero (Mexico), is described and illustrated. Its relationships and similarities with M. oligotricha and other Mexican species of section Cremanium are discussed. A key to dioecious species of Miconia in Mexico and Mesoamerica is provided.
Tropical Cyclone Outflow-Layer Structure and Balanced Response to Eddy Forcings
Authors: Ditchek Sarah D. , Molinari John , Vollaro David
Published: October 2016

The ERA-Interim is used to generate azimuthally averaged composites of Atlantic basin tropical cyclones from 1979 to 2014. Both the mean state and the eddy forcing terms exhibited similar radial–vertical structure for all storm intensities, varying only in magnitude. Thus, only major hurricanes are described in detail. Radial inflow and outflow extended beyond the 2000-km radius. Warm anomalies reached 2000 km in the outflow layer. Composite eddy momentum fluxes within the outflow layer were 2.5 times larger than mean momentum fluxes, highlighting the importance of outflow–environment interactions. A balanced vortex equation was applied to understand the role of eddy heat and momentum fluxes. Dominant terms were the lateral eddy heat flux convergence, lateral eddy momentum flux, and eddy Coriolis torque. Each acted to enhance the secondary circulation. The eddy momentum flux terms produced about twice the response of heat flux terms. The circulation created by the eddy Coriolis torque arises from a vertical gradient of mean storm-relative meridional wind in the upper troposphere at outer radii. It is produced by background inertial stability variations that allow stronger outflow on the equatorward side. Overall, the fluxes drive a strengthened secondary circulation that extends to outer radii. Balanced vertical motion is strongest in the upper troposphere in the storm core. A method is proposed for evaluating the role of environmental interaction on tropical cyclone intensity change.
The Role of Tropical Interbasin SST Gradients in Forcing Walker Circulation Trends
Authors: Zhang Lei , Karnauskas Kristopher B.
Published: October 2016

The effects of externally forced tropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies on long-term Walker circulation changes are investigated through numerical atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) experiments. In response to the observed tropics-wide SST trend, which exhibits a prominent interbasin warming contrast (IBWC) with smaller warming in the Pacific than the Indian and Atlantic Oceans that includes a weak La Niña–like pattern in the equatorial Pacific, pronounced low-level easterly anomalies emerge over the equatorial Pacific. Through sensitivity experiments, the intensification of the Pacific trade winds (PTWs) is attributable to the IBWC, whereas the slightly enhanced zonal SST gradient within the equatorial Pacific plays a small role relative to the observed IBWC. It is further demonstrated that the greater Indian Ocean warming forces low-level easterly anomalies over the entire equatorial Pacific, while the greater tropical Atlantic warming-driven enhancement of PTWs is located over the central equatorial Pacific. In contrast to observations, a negligible IBWC emerges in the tropical SST trends of CMIP5 historical simulations due to a strong El Niño–like warming in the tropical Pacific. Lacking the observed IBWC (and the observed enhancement of the zonal SST gradient within the equatorial Pacific), the PTWs in the CMIP5 ensemble can only weaken.
Understanding and Discrimination of Biofilms of Clinically Relevant Microorganisms Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Keleştemur Seda , Çulha Mustafa
Published: October 2016

Biofilm formation is a defense mechanism for microorganisms to survive under both natural and stress conditions. Clinically relevant microorganisms threaten patient health through biofilm formation on medical devices and implants. It is very important to identify biofilm formation in order to suppress their pathogenic activities in early stages. With the aim for better understanding biofilm formation and possibility of detection, in this study, biofilm formation of clinically important microorganisms, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans are monitored with surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The SERS spectra were collected by mapping a dried droplet area where a volume of colloidal silver nanoparticle (AgNP) suspension is placed on microorganism culture plate. The spectral changes on the SERS spectra with increasing incubation time of the model microorganisms from 4 to 120 h are monitored. The unique spectra originating from the biofilms of three pathogenic microorganisms and the spectral changes as a result of time-dependent concentration fluctuations of biomolecular species in their biofilms including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and genetic materials allow not only identification but also discrimination of biofilms using principal component analysis.
Alcohol consumption reduces HbA1c and glycated albumin concentrations but not 1,5-anhydroglucitol
Authors: Inada Shinya , Koga Masafumi
Published: October 2016

Background

The effect of alcohol consumption on glycaemic control indicators is not well known. In this study, we studied the effect of alcohol consumption on the plasma glucose and glycaemic control indicators in non-diabetic men.

Methods

The study enrolled 300 non-diabetic men who received a complete medical checkup (age: 52.8 ± 6.5 years, body mass index: 24.4 ± 2.8 kg/m2). The subjects were divided into four groups by the amount of alcohol consumed, and the plasma glucose, HbA1c, glycated albumin (GA) and 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) concentrations of the groups were compared.

Results

As the level of alcohol consumption increased, significantly high concentrations of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were observed, and the oral glucose tolerance test 2-h plasma glucose concentrations tended to rise. While no significant effect of alcohol consumption on HbA1c, 1,5-AG, and the 1,5-AG/FPG ratio was observed, the HbA1c/FPG ratio, GA and the GA/FPG ratio exhibited significantly low values as the level of alcohol consumption increased. In stepwise multivariate regression analysis, alcohol consumption was a significant negative independent variable for HbA1c and GA, but not for 1,5-AG.

Conclusions

As the level of alcohol consumption increased, the plasma glucose concentrations rose, but the HbA1c and GA concentrations were lower compared with the plasma glucose concentrations. These findings suggest that alcohol consumption may reduce HbA1c and GA concentrations, but not 1,5-AG.
Chitotriosidase enzyme activity: is this a possible chronic inflammation marker in children with common variable immunodeficiency and early atherosclerosis?
Authors: Azarsız Elif , Karaca Neslihan , Levent Erturk , Kutukculer Necil , Sozmen Eser
Published: October 2016

Background

Common variable immunodeficiency is a rare clinically symptomatic primary immunodeficiency disorder which manifests a wide variability of symptoms, complications. Atherosclerosis in common variable immunodeficiency patients has not been investigated yet contrary to other severe clinical complications. We aimed to investigate the chitotriosidase enzyme's role as an inflammation and atherosclerosis marker in paediatric common variable immunodeficiency patients.

Methods

Common variable immunodeficiency patients (n = 24) and healthy controls (n = 23) evaluated for chitotriosidase activity with other inflammation markers (hsCRP, myeloperoxidase, serum amyloid A, ferritin), lipid profile and echocardiographic findings (carotid artery intima media thickness – cIMT, brachial artery flow-mediated vazodilatation – FMD%).

Results

In patients, the mean chitotriosidase activity (8.98 ± 6.28) was significantly higher than the controls (5.17 ± 3.42) ( P = 0.014). Chitotriosidase showed positive relation with hs-CRP ( P = 0.011) and SAA ( P = 0.011) but had no relation with ferritin ( P = 0.155), HDL ( P = 0.152) or LDL-cholesterol ( P = 0.380). Mean cIMT increased in patients compared with the controls ( P < 0.001) but did not show any relation with chitotriosidase ( P = 0.546). FMD% decreased in patients ( P < 0.001) also showing no relation with chitotriosidase ( P = 0.298). Ventricular myocardial performance indexes had no significant difference, but RVEF% decreased in patients ( P = 0.043).

Conclusions

High chitotriosidase activity in common variable immunodeficiency patients demonstrated in vivo the presence of activated macrophages indicating ongoing inflammation. Echocardiographic diastolic functional deficiency, increased cIMT and decreased FMD% may be accepted as early atherosclerotic findings, but none of them showed relationship with chitotriosidase activities.
The preanalytical stability of glucagon as measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and two commercially available immunoassays
Authors: Cegla Jaimini , Jones Ben J , Howard James , Kay Richard , Creaser Colin S , Bloom Stephen R , Tan Tricia M
Published: October 2016

Background

One of the main challenges in the measurement of glucagon is the premise that it is unstable in human plasma. Traditionally, protease inhibitors have been used to prevent its degradation; however, their use is controversial. Here, we investigated the optimal method of sample collection for glucagon, with measurement by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and two commercially available immunoassays.

Methods

Blood from healthy fasting volunteers (n = 10) was processed under a variety of preanalytical conditions including collection in EDTA vs. lithium heparin tubes and the addition of aprotinin and/or a dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPPIV) inhibitor. Additionally, the effect of freeze thaw was assessed. Plasma glucagon concentrations were measured by LC-MS/MS and two commercially available immunoassays (HTRF® sandwich immunoassay, Cisbio and Milliplex MAP Human Metabolic Hormone Panel, Merck Millipore).

Results

A systematic bias of Milliplex > LC-MS/MS > HTRF was noted and plasma glucagon concentrations were significantly different between methods (Milliplex vs. LC-MS/MS P < 0.01; Milliplex vs. HTRF P < 0.0001; LC-MS/MS vs. HTRF P < 0.001). The addition of aprotinin, DPPIV inhibitor or a combination of aprotinin and DPPIV inhibitor had no effect on plasma glucagon concentrations when compared to ‘non-stabilized’ samples or each other. Whether samples were taken in EDTA tubes or lithium heparin tubes made no difference to plasma glucagon concentrations. These findings were consistent for all three methods. Plasma glucagon concentrations were not significantly different after two freeze–thaw cycles (performed on samples in EDTA tubes containing aprotinin and DPPIV inhibitor).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that glucagon is stable in both EDTA and lithium heparin tubes when stored at −80℃. Furthermore, the addition of aprotinin and DPPIV inhibitors is unnecessary.
Tests of Statistical Significance Made Sound
Authors: Haig Brian D.
Published: October 2016

This article considers the nature and place of tests of statistical significance (ToSS) in science, with particular reference to psychology. Despite the enormous amount of attention given to this topic, psychology’s understanding of ToSS remains deficient. The major problem stems from a widespread and uncritical acceptance of null hypothesis significance testing (NHST), which is an indefensible amalgam of ideas adapted from Fisher’s thinking on the subject and from Neyman and Pearson’s alternative account. To correct for the deficiencies of the hybrid, it is suggested that psychology avail itself of two important and more recent viewpoints on ToSS, namely the neo-Fisherian and the error-statistical perspectives. The neo-Fisherian perspective endeavors to improve on Fisher’s original account and rejects key elements of Neyman and Pearson’s alternative. In contrast, the error-statistical perspective builds on the strengths of both statistical traditions. It is suggested that these more recent outlooks on ToSS are a definite improvement on NHST, especially the error-statistical position. It is suggested that ToSS can play a useful, if limited, role in psychological research. At the end, some lessons learnt from the extensive debates about ToSS are presented.
Understanding the Conspiracy of Silence
Authors: Chui Wing Hong , Yeung Andrew Yue
Published: October 2016

Although the negative impacts of parental incarceration on families are generally well established, less attention has been paid to the dilemma of how caregivers communicate with their children regarding parental incarceration. This study provides an understanding of the factors associated with caregivers’ choice to disclose or conceal the incarceration of a father. The results suggested that religious or married caregivers were less likely to inform their children, with the young age of children also being a determinant in information remaining concealed. The conviction types of the incarcerated father and his relationships with caregivers and children did not play any role in disclosure likelihood.
Computational fluid dynamics study on the drag and flow field differences between the single and coupled bends
Authors: Gao Ran , Chen Shikuo , Li Angui , Yang Zhigang , Cong Beihua
Published: October 2016

Owing to the limited installation space and duct size, coupled fittings are common in the duct systems of buildings. The coupling effect leads to changes in drag and fan energy consumption. This study investigates duct drag and flow field characteristics under coupling conditions. Experiments and numerical simulations with the Reynolds stress model are conducted. Flow field changes, flow field deformation, and drag changes in the duct are analyzed. Regardless of the coupling form, the velocity near the inner arc is fast, whereas that near the outer arc is slow. Under three different coupling connection conditions (S-shaped, L-shaped, and U-shaped), the outlet velocity gradient of the U-shaped coupling connection is the least obvious. After the fluid flows through the bend, a significant centerline velocity reduction can be observed, even greater than that in the bend. The lowest centerline velocity lies within the range of 2.5 D to 4.5 D after the bend. Coupling connection has an insignificant effect on upstream duct resistance. The resistance of single bend is less than that of the downstream bend for the coupled bend and greater than that of the upstream bend under coupling conditions.

Practical application: Coupling effect is common in practical application of ventilation engineering. This effect leads to the change of fluid resistance loss of ducts and pipes. However, few researchers focus on this effect. This study finds that regardless of the coupling form, the velocity near the inner arc is fast, whereas that near the outer arc is slow. It means the guide vane should be set near inner arc. L-shaped coupling connection has the largest downstream piping resistance. The resistance of the downstream piping under S-shaped coupling is the least, thus L-shaped coupling connection should be avoided as far as possible in practical application.
Preliminary study on Emodin alleviating alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate-induced intrahepatic cholestasis by regulation of liver farnesoid X receptor pathway
Authors: Ding Yan , Xiong Xiao-Li , Zhou Li-Shan , Yan Su-Qi , Qin Huan , Li Hua-Rong , Zhang Ling-Ling , Chen Peng , Yao Cong , Jiang Zhi-Xia , Zhao Lei
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate Emodin on alleviating intrahepatic cholestasis by regulation of liver farnesoid X receptor (FXR) pathway. Cell and animal models of intrahepatic cholestatis were established. Biochemical tests and histomorphology were performed. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of FXR, small heterodimer partner (SHP), uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 2 family polypeptide B4 (UGT2B4), and bile salt export pump (BSEP) was detected. As a result, compared with the model group, the serum levels of biochemical test were significantly lower in the Emodin group ( P <0.01). The histopathological changes were remitted significantly by Emodin treatment. In the model group, the mRNA and protein expression of FXR, SHP, UGT2B4, and BSEP was significantly lower than in the normal group in cell models ( P <0.05). With Emodin intervention, the expression of FXR, SHP, UGT2B4, and BSEP was notably increased ( P <0.05). In conclusion, Emodin plays a protective role in intrahepatic cholestasis by promoting FXR signal pathways.
Exploring Path Models of Disablement in Residential Care and Assisted Living Residents
Authors: Phillips Lorraine J. , Petroski Gregory F. , Conn Vicki S. , Brown Marybeth , Leary Emily , Teri Linda , Zimmerman Sheryl
Published: October 2016

This study examined the relationships between individual and environmental factors and physical activity, and between physical activity and functional limitations and disability in residential care/assisted living (RC/AL) residents. Participants completed questionnaires and physical performance tests, and wore the Fitbit Motion Tracker® to capture physical activity. Model fit was analyzed using two-level path models with residents nested within RC/AL settings. Model parameters were estimated using the MPlus robust maximum likelihood method. A multilevel model with good fit (root mean square error of approximation = 0.07, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.91) showed that persons with greater exercise self-efficacy were more physically active, and persons who were more physically active had better physical function and less disability. Setting-level factors did not significantly correlate with physical activity or disability. Although environmental factors may influence physical activity behavior, only individual factors were associated with physical activity in this sample of RC/AL residents.
Who Gets Protection? A National Study of Multiple Victimization and Child Protection Among Taiwanese Children
Authors: Shen April Chiung-Tao , Feng Joyce Yen , Feng Jui-Ying , Wei Hsi-Sheng , Hsieh Yi-Ping , Huang Soar Ching-Yu , Hwa Hsiao-Lin
Published: October 2016

This study aims to examine the prevalence of multiple types of child victimization and the effects of multiple types of victimization on children’s mental health and behavior in Taiwan. The study also examines the child-protection rate and its correlates among children experiencing various types of victimization. This study collected data with a self-report questionnaire from a national proportionately stratified sample of 6,233 fourth-grade students covering every city and county in Taiwan in 2014. After calculating the 1-year prevalence of child victimization, the study found that bullying was the most prevalent (71%), followed by physical neglect (66%), psychological violence (43%), inter-parental violence (28%), community violence (22%), physical abuse (21%), and sexual violence (9%). As the number of victimization types increased, children were more likely to report greater posttraumatic symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, suicide ideation, self-harm thoughts, and violent behaviors. Gender, neonatal status, parental marital status, and other family risks were significantly associated with elevated incidences of the victimization types. Only 20.6% of the children who had experienced all seven types of victimization had received child protective services. A child was more likely to receive child protective services if he or she had experienced sexual violence, community violence, inter-parental violence exposure, higher family risks, higher suicidal ideation, or living in a single-parent or separated family. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the cumulative effects and the harmful effects that children’s experience of multiple types of victimization can have on the children’s mental health and behavior. The present findings also raise alarms regarding the severity of under-serving in child-victimization cases. These results underscore the importance of assessing, identifying, and helping children with multiple victimization experiences.
Getting Your Grumble Back
Authors: Evans Stacy , Yager Erica , Sutherland Leonie , Downey Marty
Published: October 2016

Purpose of study: Viewing the surgical patient holistically within their environment of care, the bedside nurse is aware of the possible complication of postoperative paralytic ileus that can lead to patient discomfort and increased medical costs. Acute care nurses observed postoperative patients watching televised cooking shows on a consistent basis and questioned if there was a mind–body link between bowel function and watching cooking shows. Design of Study: The study used an observational approach to examine the return of bowel sounds for postoperative patients. Method: Ninety-four patients that underwent abdominal surgery participated. A questionnaire was administered to capture total hours postsurgery of patient viewing cooking shows followed by chart review for age, height, weight, information specific to surgery, and documented first postsurgical flatus. Findings: This study found that non–bariatric general surgery patients who watch cooking shows during hospitalization are significantly more likely to experience return of appetite and stomach sounds within 1 day postsurgery than patients who do not watch cooking shows. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, the authors suggest that, when possible, patients who receive non–bariatric abdominal surgery be encouraged to watch cooking shows to experience the potential benefits such as early return of bowel functioning.
Gender Differences in the Incidence and Determinants of Components of the Frailty Phenotype Among Older Adults: Findings From the SABE Study
Authors: Alexandre Tiago da S. , Corona Ligiana P. , Brito Tábatta R. P. , Santos Jair L. F. , Duarte Yeda A. O. , Lebrão Maria L.
Published: October 2016

Objective: To analyze gender differences in incidence and determinants of the components of the frailty phenotype. Method: A total of 1,413 older adults were selected in 2006. To estimate the incidence of each frailty component, only individuals who did not exhibit a given component at baseline (independently of the presence of other components) were included in the study. The variables of interest were socioeconomic, behavioral, clinical, anthropometric factors and physical performance. The incidence of each component in 2010 was the outcome. Results: Unintentional weight loss and slowness were more incident in men up to 74 years of age. The other frailty components were more incident in women at all age groups, except weakness. Besides age, the determinants of incidence of the components of frailty were different between genders. Discussion: Strategies for preventing or delaying the installation of frailty need to address gender differences, considering the greater complexity in the network determinants among women.
Thermal properties of a series of tetrafunctional fluorene-based oxazines/P-a blends
Authors: Sang Zi , Feng Tiantian , Liu Wenbin , Wang Jun , Derradji Mehdi
Published: October 2016

A new series of aniline and aniline-mixed tetrafunctional fluorene-based oxazine monomers were synthesized using 2,7-hydroxy-9,9-bis-(4-hydroxyphenyl) fluorene, paraformaldehyde, and primary amines (including aniline or aniline mixed with n-butylamine or n-octylamine composition). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure of the monomers. The copolymers were obtained by adding the monomers into a typical monofunctional polybenzoxazine (phenol-aniline-based benzoxazine). Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis were performed to study the thermal properties of the copolymers. The copolymers exhibited high glass transition temperature values (164–201°C). A good thermal stability was also obtained with a 5% weight loss temperature over 355°C and high char yields at 800°C (42–50%).
Improving the performance of railway tracks through ballast interventions
Authors: Abadi Taufan , Pen Louis Le , Zervos Antonis , Powrie William
Published: October 2016

Maintenance and eventual renewal of a ballasted track constitute major operational costs for a railway network. Thus, significant benefits would accrue from a more robust track design having a longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements. This paper presents the results from a laboratory study and explores the potential to achieve this through improving the ballast grading and reducing the ballast shoulder slope. Cyclic loading tests were carried out on a section of track representing one sleeper bay in plane strain, in the Southampton Railway Testing Facility. A cyclic load representing a 20 tonne axle load was applied at 3 Hz for at least 3 million cycles, during which measurements of permanent and resilient vertical deflection were made. Certain interventions are found to result in lower rates of permanent settlement and different resilient ranges of movement. Supplementary measurements to determine longitudinal pressure, ballast breakage and attrition, and shoulder slope movement were used to explore the mechanisms responsible for the observed improvements in ballast bed performance. It is concluded that the use of finer ballast gradings and a shallower shoulder slope have the potential to reduce maintenance requirements.
Holocene fen–bog transitions, current status in Finland and future perspectives
Authors: Väliranta Minna , Salojärvi Niina , Vuorsalo Annina , Juutinen Sari , Korhola Atte , Luoto Miska , Tuittila Eeva-Stiina
Published: October 2016

Minerotrophic fens and ombrotrophic bogs differ in their nutrient status, hydrology, vegetation and carbon dynamics, and their geographical distribution is linked to various climate parameters. Currently, bogs dominate the northern temperate and southern boreal zones but climate warming may cause a northwards shift in the distribution of the bog zone. To more profoundly understand the sensitivity of peatlands to changes in climate, we first used the plant macrofossil method to identify plant communities that are characteristic of past fen–bog transitions. These transitions were radiocarbon dated, to be linked to Holocene climate phases. Subsequently, palaeoecological data were combined with an extensive vegetation survey dataset collected along the current fen–bog ecotone in Finland where we studied how the distribution of the key plant species identified from peat records is currently related to the most important environmental variables. The fossil plant records revealed clear successional phases: an initial Carex-dominated fen phase, an Eriophorum vaginatum–dominated oligotrophic fen phase followed by an early bog phase with wet bog Sphagna. This was occasionally followed by a dry ombrotrophic bog phase. Timing of initiation and phase transitions, and duration of succession phases varied between three sites studied. However, the final ombrotrophication occurred during 2000–3000 cal. BP corresponding to the neoglacial cooling phase. Dry mid-Holocene seems to have facilitated initiation of Eriophorum fens. The peatlands surveyed in the fen–bog ecotone were classified into succession phases based on the key species distribution. In 33% of the studied peatlands, Sphagnum had taken over and we interpret they are going through a final transition from fen to bog. In addition to autogenic processes and direct climate impact, our results showed that ecosystem shifts are also driven by allogenic disturbances, such as fires, suggesting that climate change can indirectly assist the ombrotrophication process in the southern border of the fen–bog ecotone.
Slavery, Economic Freedom, and Income Levels in the Former Slave-exporting States of Africa
Authors: Wiseman Travis
Published: October 2016

This article investigates the relationships among slavery, economic freedom, and economic development across former slave-exporting states in Africa, using country-level slave export data from Nunn, the Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom of the World index, and per capita real gross domestic product (GDP) from the Maddison Project database. Recent studies document a negative link between slavery and present-day income. This study takes an additional step, aiming to connect slavery, institutions, and economic performance by testing whether the early institutions of slavery work through current institutions to affect modern incomes. I attempt to support this relationship using slave exports as an instrument for institutions in two-stage least squares income regressions. Results demonstrate a strong, positive relationship between economic freedom and present-day income. Further, based on tests of overidentifying restrictions, I cannot safely reject instrument validity. These findings, taken together, suggest that institutions likely serve as a conduit for the influence of slavery on incomes today.
Zofenopril and ramipril in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction after acute myocardial infarction: A propensity analysis of the Survival of Myocardial Infarction Long-term Evaluation (SMILE) 4 study
Authors: Borghi Claudio , Omboni Stefano , Novo Salvatore , Vinereanu Dragos , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Ambrosioni Ettore ,   on behalf of the SMILE-4 Working Party
Published: October 2016

Introduction:

This was a propensity score analysis of the prospective, randomized, double-blind Survival of Myocardial Infarction Long-term Evaluation (SMILE) 4 study in which one-year treatment with zofenopril 60 mg plus acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) 100 mg gave superior results compared to ramipril 10 mg plus ASA in terms of death or hospitalization for cardiovascular causes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by left ventricular dysfunction (LVD).

Materials and methods:

A total of 716 patients of the intention-to-treat population were divided into homogeneous propensity quintiles (Q) using a logistic regression model (QI: best risk profile; QV: worst risk profile).

Results:

Treatment was associated with a similar low rate of major cardiovascular events in any Q. However, the efficacy of zofenopril was better than that of ramipril in QII, QV, and particularly QIII (odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval: 0.43 (0.21–0.87), p<0.05]. This result was primarily attributed to a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular hospitalization, particularly striking in the QIII (OR: 0.40, 0.19-0.85; p<0.05). Mortality rate did not significantly differ between the two treatments in any Q.

Conclusions:

In the SMILE-4 study the propensity analysis confirmed the efficacy of zofenopril in the prevention of long-term cardiovascular outcomes irrespective of the cardiovascular risk profile of post-AMI patients.
Exploring Different Types of Superstitious Beliefs in Risk-Taking Behaviors
Authors: Chinchanachokchai Sydney , Pusaksrikit Theeranuch , Pongsakornrungsilp Siwarit
Published: October 2016

Superstitions are common phenomena in human society, especially in Asian cultures. Superstitious beliefs can have a negative impact on the social well-being of people in society because they are highly associated with financial risk-taking and gambling behaviors. This study looks at the effects of different types of superstitious belief (proactive vs. passive) on consumers’ risk-taking behaviors. Categorized based on the characteristics associated with an illusion of control in a situation, proactive and passive superstitious beliefs were found to show differences in risk-taking behaviors. The results demonstrate that passive superstitious beliefs increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors when a superstitious object is introduced. The research suggests social marketing and public policy implications.
Comparative Effectiveness of Plain Balloon Angioplasty, Bare Metal Stents, Drug-Coated Balloons, and Drug-Eluting Stents for the Treatment of Infrapopliteal Artery Disease
Authors: Katsanos Konstantinos , Kitrou Panagiotis , Spiliopoulos Stavros , Diamantopoulos Athanasios , Karnabatidis Dimitris
Published: October 2016

Purpose: To report a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing bare metal stents (BMS), paclitaxel-coated balloons (PCBs), and drug-eluting stents (DES) with balloon angioplasty (BA) or with each other in the infrapopliteal arteries. Methods: Sixteen RCTs comprising 1805 patients with 1-year median follow-up were analyzed. Bayesian random effects binomial models were employed (WinBUGS). Relative treatment effects were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credible intervals (CrI), and the cumulative rank probabilities were calculated to provide hierarchies of competing treatments. Quality of evidence (QoE) was assessed with the GRADE (grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation) system. Sensitivity, heterogeneity, and consistency analyses were performed. Results: There was high QoE that infrapopliteal DES significantly reduced restenosis compared with BMS (OR 0.26, 95% CrI 0.12 to 0.51) and BA (OR 0.22, 95% CrI 0.11 to 0.45). Likewise, DES significantly reduced target lesion revascularization (TLR) compared with BA (OR 0.41, 95% CrI 0.22 to 0.75) and BMS (OR 0.26, 95% CrI 0.15 to 0.45). Paclitaxel-coated balloons also reduced TLR compared with BA (OR 0.55, 95% CrI 0.34 to 0.90) and BMS (OR 0.35, 95% CrI 0.18 to 0.67), but QoE was low to moderate. BA had lower TLR than BMS (OR 0.63, 95% CrI 0.40 to 0.99) with high QoE. DES was the only treatment that significantly reduced limb amputations compared with BA (OR 0.58, 95% CrI 0.35 to 0.96), PCB (OR 0.51, 95% CrI 0.26 to 0.98), or BMS (OR 0.38, 95% CrI 0.19 to 0.72) with moderate to high QoE. DES also significantly improved wound healing compared with BA (OR 2.02, 95% CrI 1.01 to 4.07) or BMS (OR 3.45, 95% CrI 1.41 to 8.73) with high QoE. Results were stable on sensitivity and meta-regression analyses without any significant publication bias or inconsistency. Conclusion: Infrapopliteal DES were associated with significantly lower rates of restenosis, TLR, and amputations and improved wound healing compared to BA and BMS. DES also significantly reduced amputations compared with PCB.
Microencapsulation of porcine thyroid cell organoids within a polymer microcapsule construct
Authors: Yang Yipeng , Opara Emmanuel C , Liu Yingbin , Atala Anthony , Zhao Weixin
Published: October 2016

Hypothyroidism is a common condition of hormone deficiency, and oral administration of thyroid hormones is currently the only available treatment option. However, there are some disadvantages with this treatment modality including compliance challenges to patients. Therefore, a physiologically based alternative therapy for hypothyroidism with little or no side-effects is needed. In this study, we have developed a method for microencapsulating porcine thyroid cells as a thyroid hormone replacement approach. The hybrid wall of the polymer microcapsules permits thyroid hormone release while preventing immunoglobulin antibodies from entry. This strategy could potentially enable implantation of the microcapsule organoids containing allogeneic or xenogeneic thyroid cells to secret hormones over time without the need for immunosuppression of recipients. Porcine thyroid cells were isolated and encapsulated in alginate-poly-L-ornithine-alginate microcapsules using a microfluidic device. The porcine thyroid cells formed three-dimensional follicular spheres in the microcapsules with decent cell viability and proliferation. Thyroxine release from the encapsulated cells was higher than from unencapsulated cells ( P < 0.05) and was maintained during the entire duration of experiment (>28 days). These results suggest that the microencapsulated thyroid cell organoids may have the potential to be used for therapy and/or drug screening.
Solutions of the time fractional reaction–diffusion equations with residual power series method
Authors: Tchier Fairouz , Inc Mustafa , Korpinar Zeliha S , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: October 2016

In this article, the residual power series method for solving nonlinear time fractional reaction–diffusion equations is introduced. Residual power series algorithm gets Maclaurin expansion of the solution. The algorithm is tested on Fitzhugh–Nagumo and generalized Fisher equations with nonlinearity ranging. The solutions of our equation are computed in the form of rapidly convergent series with easily calculable components using Mathematica software package. Reliability of the method is given by graphical consequences, and series solutions are used to illustrate the solution. The found consequences show that the method is a powerful and efficient method in determination of solution of the time fractional reaction–diffusion equations.
Numerical analysis of laminar forced convection in concentric rotating cylinders: Entropy generation
Authors: Hajji Fadhila , Mazgar Akram , Ben Nejma Fayçal
Published: October 2016

This work analyzes the second-law characteristics of heat transfer due to laminar forced convection of a stationary fluid flow between concentric rotating cylinders. The momentum and energy balance equations are discretized by the finite volume method. The effects of boundary conditions and different flow parameters on entropy generation are presented. The obtained results show that irreversibility due to fluid friction is neglected compared to entropy production due to thermal conduction. It is also observed that entropy creation is practically not affected by the angular velocity of the inner cylinder.
A prediction model and its validation of railway-induced building vibrations
Authors: Zhang Yunshi , Zhang Nan , Cao Yanmei , Yu Yang
Published: October 2016

A prediction model of the structural vibration responses induced by the running trains is established. The modal parameters of the structure are identified using a double-confirmation analysis method based on the auto-spectrum, and the vibration responses of the building are calculated from a limited number of measuring records by inputting the measured vibration information to the foundation of the updated building model. The proposed method is validated by an in-situ experiment of a five-floor residential building near a railway. It was found that the calculated vibration level corresponds well with the measured ones in the concerned frequency bands.
Pareto optimal train scheduling for urban rail transit using generalized particle swarm optimization
Authors: Chu Wenjun , Zhang Xingchen , Chen Junhua , Sun Xu
Published: October 2016

In urban rail transport, train timetable plays a crucial role, whose quality determines the whole system’s performance to a large extent. In practical urban rail operation, two contradictive aspects—service quality and operation cost—should be considered during train scheduling. A good train timetable should achieve considerable service quality with as little operation cost as possible. Previously, many studies have been conducted specific to urban rail train scheduling, although most of them do not put enough emphasis on its multi-objective nature. In this article, therefore, Pareto optimal urban rail train scheduling which can give more instruction to practical operation is studied. First, referring to some existing studies, the problem is reasonably defined, which takes time-dependent origin–destination demand as the input and aims at minimizing the passengers’ total travel time and the number of used train stocks. Then, an efficient iteration algorithm and a valid train stock assignment procedure are designed to calculate the passengers’ total travel time and required train stock number, respectively. On that basis, the studied problem is reasonably formulated as a bi-objective optimization model and a Pareto-based particle swarm optimization procedure is designed to solve it. Finally, with two different scaled urban rail lines, the whole methodology is illustrated and the algorithm is tested.
The investigation of gas–liquid two-phase transient flow based on Steger–Warming flux vector splitting method in pipelines
Authors: Jiang Jin , Fu You , Zhang Lisheng , Li Yanhui , Ji Weidong , Liu Yameng
Published: October 2016

In this article, two fluid conservation equations of gas–liquid two-phase transient flows are deduced with an improved mass transfer model between two phases and applied to liquid-column separation transients in pipelines. A new description of gas–liquid two-phase bubbly flow numerical calculation is structured with difference method of the Steger–Warming flux vector splitting method which is combined with NND scheme. Two experiments are chosen to validate the applicability and accuracy of the two-phase flow model: (1) Simpson’s valve closure water hammer experiment and (2) our select water hammer experiment: the power failure in the horizontal pipeline pump system experiment. Results show that a reasonable agreement is achieved by comparing to the experimental results. This method is stated to be capable of capturing shock waves and the interface mass exchange during transient process in bubble flow while suppressing calculation oscillation problem.
‘I just try to be independent as much as possible’: Duchenne muscular dystrophy, agency and contextualised competence
Authors: Skyrme Sarah
Published: October 2016

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive muscle-wasting condition that only affects boys, most use a wheelchair by the age of 12 and increasing levels of support and medical intervention are needed as they mature into young adulthood. Medical research is working to find treatments and an eventual cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and this research can require the participation of those with the condition. Therefore, boys and young men who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy were invited to discuss their thoughts on how they might make a decision to take part in medical research, and to explore issues impacting their daily lives. Their accounts highlight experiences of agency and contextualised competence, challenging assumptions of vulnerability and immaturity in those who are young and severely disabled. The findings, based on fieldwork in England, enrich understandings of how such lives have meaning, wherein agency, independence and decision-making capabilities are present and exercised, albeit in ways that may be different to ‘mainstream’ notions of the terms.
An evaluation of the performance of SCORE Sweden 2015 in estimating cardiovascular risk
Authors: Karjalainen Tina , Adiels Martin , Björck Lena , Cooney Marie-Therèse , Graham Ian , Perk Joep , Rosengren Annika , Söderberg Stefan , Eliasson Mats
Published: October 2016

Background

Risk prediction models for cardiovascular death are important for providing advice on lifestyle and in decision-making regarding primary preventive drug treatment. The latest Swedish version of the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE 2015) has yet not been tested in the population.

Objective

The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of high and very high risk of fatal cardiovascular disease (CVD) of the current population according to 2015 SCORE Sweden and to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the 2003 Swedish version of SCORE (2003 SCORE Sweden) and 2015 SCORE Sweden in a population with declining CVD mortality.

Methods

We estimated the high and very high risk group for cardiovascular death for individuals 40–65 years of age in the 2014 Northern Sweden MONICA population survey excluding subjects with known diabetes or previous CVD ( n = 813). Using the 1999 MONICA survey ( n = 3347) followed up for 10 years for CVD mortality, we assessed the calibration of both 2003 and 2015 SCORE Sweden.

Results

In 2014 2.6% of the population was considered at high or very high risk for fatal CVD, 95% were men and 76% were in the age group 60–65 years. Including subjects with a single markedly elevated risk factor, known diabetes or CVD, 12% of the population was at high or very high risk. During 10 years of follow-up of the 1999 cohort, 34 CVD deaths (24 men and 10 women) occurred. The 2003 SCORE overestimated the risk of death from CVD (ratio predicted/observed 2.3, P < 0.001) whereas the 2015 SCORE slightly overestimated the number of deaths (predicted/observed 1.3, P = 0.12). The 2015 SCORE predicted more accurately than the 2003 SCORE the number of deaths in the different risk and age categories.

Conclusion

The 2015 SCORE Sweden more adequately than 2003 SCORE Sweden predicts the number of deaths. In 2014, the proportion of high-risk individuals is small in northern Sweden. The main use of 2015 SCORE Sweden would therefore be as an educational tool between the physician and people without diabetes or CVD in a consultation regarding cardiovascular risk.