bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Load Aggregator‐Based Integrated Demand Response for Residential Smart Energy Hubs
Authors: Lv Wenjie , Wu Jian , Luo Zhao , Ding Min , Jiang Xiang , Li Hejian , Wang Qian
Published: April 2019

In order to attract more flexible resource to take part in integrated demand response (IDR), this can be realized by introducing load aggregator‐based framework. In this paper, based on residential smart energy hubs (S.E. Hubs), a two‐level IDR framework is proposed, in which S.E. Hub operators play the role of load aggregators. The framework includes day‐ahead bidding and real‐time scheduling. In day‐ahead bidding, S.E. Hub operators have to compete dispatching amount for maximal profit; hence, noncooperative game approach is formulated to describe the competition behavior among operators. In real‐time scheduling, the dispatching model is formulated to minimize the error between real‐time scheduling amount and bidding amount. Moreover, in order to reduce the influence of IDR on residential users, 4 categories of users’ flexible loads are modeled according to load consumption characteristic, and then these models are considered as the constraints in real‐time scheduling. A case study is designed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed two‐level IDR framework. And simulation results confirm that smart grid, S.E. Hub operators, and residential users can benefit simultaneously.
Optimization Analysis of Settlement Parameters for Postgrouting Piles in Loess Area of Shaanxi, China
Authors: Zhou Zhijun , Zhu Shanshan , Kong Xiang , Lei Jiangtao , Liu Tong
Published: April 2019

The settlement calculation of postgrouting piles is complex and depends on the calculation method and parameters. Static load tests were conducted to compare the settlement characteristics of nongrouting and postgrouting piles, and three vital parameters in the layer‐wise summation method were revised to predict the settlement of postgrouting piles. The elastic compression coefficient was deduced based on the Mindlin–Geddes method by considering the influence of the change in the pile side resistance distribution and end resistance ratio on the elastic compression after grouting. The relationship between the compression modulus and soil gravity stress and cone penetration resistance were established, respectively, using experimental data. The optimum value of the settlement empirical coefficient was determined using regional data. Finally, we used the postgrouting pile of the Wuqi–Dingbian expressway as a practical example. The results obtained from the layer‐wise summation method after parametric optimization were close to the measured values. The results of this study provide reference data and guidance for the settlement calculation of postgrouting piles in this area.
Improved Performance Prediction of Marine Propeller: Numerical Investigation and Experimental Verification
Authors: Tan Yue , Li Jing , Li Yuan , Liu Chunbao
Published: April 2019

An approach was presented to improve the performance prediction of marine propeller through computational fluid dynamics (CFD). After a series of computations were conducted, it was found that the passage in the former study was too narrow, resulting in the unnecessary radial outer boundary effects. Hence, in this study, a fatter passage model was employed to avoid unnecessary effects, in which the diameter was the same as the length from the propeller to the downstream outlet and the diameter was larger than the previous study. The diameter and length of the passage were 5D and 8D, respectively. The propeller DTMB P5168 was used to evaluate the fat passage model. During simulation, the classical RANS model (standard k‐ε) and the Multiple Reference Frame (MRF) approach were employed after accounting for other factors. The computational performance results were compared with the experimental values, which showed that they were in good agreement. The maximum errors of Kt and Kq were less than 5% and 3% on different advance coefficients J except 1.51, respectively, and that of η was less than 2.62%. Hence the new model obtains more accurate performance prediction compared with published literatures. The circumferentially averaged velocity components were also compared with the experimental results. The axial and tangential velocity components were also in good agreement with the experimental data. Specifically, the errors of the axial and tangential velocity components were less than 3%, when the r/R was not less than 3.4. When the J value was larger, the variation trends of radial velocity were consistent with the experimental data. In conclusion, the fat passage model proposed here was applicable to obtain the highly accurate predicted results.
An Empirical Comparison of Multiple Linear Regression and Artificial Neural Network for Concrete Dam Deformation Modelling
Authors: Li Mingjun , Wang Junxing
Published: April 2019

Deformation predicting models are essential for evaluating the health status of concrete dams. Nevertheless, the application of the conventional multiple linear regression model has been limited due to the particular structure, random loading, and strong nonlinear deformation of concrete dams. Conversely, the artificial neural network (ANN) model shows good adaptability to complex and highly nonlinear behaviors. This paper aims to evaluate the specific performance of the multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) model in characterizing concrete dam deformation under environmental loads. In this study, four models, namely, the multiple linear regression (MLR), stepwise regression (SR), backpropagation (BP) neural network, and extreme learning machine (ELM) model, are employed to simulate dam deformation from two aspects: single measurement point and multiple measurement points, approximately 11 years of historical dam operation records. Results showed that the prediction accuracy of the multipoint model was higher than that of the single point model except the MLR model. Moreover, the prediction accuracy of the ELM model was always higher than the other three models. All discussions would be conducted in conjunction with a gravity dam study.
Performance Modelling of Dual Air/Water Collector in Solar Water and Space Heating Application
Authors: Shemelin Viacheslav , Matuska Tomas
Published: April 2019

In the present work, the detailed mathematical model of a dual air/water solar collector (DAWC) has been developed and experimentally verified. To demonstrate the application of the DAWC, three buildings with different energy performance levels and three building locations were chosen in analyzed case studies. Four solar collector systems were compared with one another. The solar yield of the described systems was determined by simulation using the detailed theoretical model of DAWC. The results indicate that in the case of combining a domestic hot water preparation system and recirculating-air heating system based on DAWC, it is possible to achieve up to 30% higher solar energy yield compared to a conventional solar domestic hot water preparation system dependent on climate and building performance.
Electronic Stability Control for Improving Stability for an Eight In‐Wheel Motor‐Independent Drive Electric Vehicle
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhang Chengning
Published: April 2019

An electronic stability control (ESC) based on torque distribution is proposed for an eight in‐wheel motor‐independent drive electric vehicle (8WIDEV). The proposed ESC is extremely suitable for the independent driving vehicle to enhance its handling stability performance. The vehicle model is established based on a prototype 8WIDEV. A hierarchical control strategy, which includes a reference state generation controller, an upper‐level vehicle controller, and a lower‐level optimal control allocation controller, is utilized in the ESC. The reference state generation controller is used to obtain the ideal reference vehicle state. The upper‐level vehicle controller is structured based on sliding mode control, which obtains the generalized objective force during 8WIDEV movement, therein considering the side slip angle and yaw rate. The lower‐level optimal control allocation controller attempts to allocate the vehicle’s objective force in each motor optimally and reasonably. The model is validated by field measurement results under the step input condition and snake input condition. Simulation results from a hardware‐in‐the‐loop (HIL) simulation platform indicate that the ESC based on the optimized allocation proposed for 8WIDEV achieves better stability performance compared with direct yaw moment control (DYC).
Bioremoval of Cobalt(II) from Aqueous Solution by Three Different and Resistant Fungal Biomasses
Authors: Cárdenas González Juan F. , Rodríguez Pérez Adriana S. , Vargas Morales Juan M. , Martínez Juárez Víctor M. , Rodríguez Ismael Acosta , Cuello Christian Michel , Fonseca Gustavo Gallegos , Escalera Chávez Milka E. , Muñoz Morales Alejandra
Published: April 2019

The biosorption of Co(II) on three fungal biomasses:Paecilomycessp.,Penicilliumsp., andAspergillus niger, was studied in this work. The fungal biomass ofPaecilomycessp. showed the best results, since it removes 93% at 24 h of incubation, while the biomasses ofPenicilliumsp. andAspergillus nigerare less efficient, since they remove the metal 77.5% and 70%, respectively, in the same time of incubation, with an optimum pH of removal for the three analyzed biomasses of 5.0 ± 0.2 at 28°C. Regarding the temperature of incubation, the most efficient biomass was that ofPaecilomycessp., since it removes 100%, at 50°C, while the biomasses ofPenicilliumsp. andAspergillus nigerremove 97.1% and 94.1%, at the same temperature, in 24 hours of incubation. On the contrary, if the concentration of the metal is increased, the removal capacity for the three analyzed biomasses decreases; if the concentration of the bioadsorbent is increased, the removal of the metal also increases. It was observed that, after 4 and 7 days of incubation, 100%, 100%, and 96.4% of Co(II) present in naturally contaminated water were removed, respectively.
Mean Platelet Volume (MPV): New Perspectives for an Old Marker in the Course and Prognosis of Inflammatory Conditions
Authors: Korniluk Aleksandra , Koper-Lenkiewicz Olga Martyna , Kamińska Joanna , Kemona Halina , Dymicka-Piekarska Violetta
Published: April 2019

Platelet size has been demonstrated to reflect platelet activity and seems to be a useful predictive and prognostic biomarker of cardiovascular events. It is associated with a variety of prothrombotic and proinflammatory diseases. The aim is a review of literature reports concerning changes in the mean platelet volume (MPV) and its possible role as a biomarker in inflammatory processes and neoplastic diseases. PubMed database was searched for sources using the following keywords: platelet activation, platelet count, mean platelet volume and: inflammation, cancer/tumor, cardiovascular diseases, myocardial infarction, diabetes, lupus disease, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, ulcerative colitis, renal disease, pulmonary disease, influencing factors, age, gender, genetic factors, oral contraceptives, smoking, lifestyle, methods, standardization, and hematological analyzer. Preference was given to the sources which were published within the past 20 years. Increased MPV was observed in cardiovascular diseases, cerebral stroke, respiratory diseases, chronic renal failure, intestine diseases, rheumatoid diseases, diabetes, and various cancers. Decreased MPV was noted in tuberculosis during disease exacerbation, ulcerative colitis, SLE in adult, and different neoplastic diseases. The study of MPV can provide important information on the course and prognosis in many inflammatory conditions. Therefore, from the clinical point of view, it would be interesting to establish an MPV cut-off value indicating the intensity of inflammatory process, presence of the disease, increased risk of disease development, increased risk of thrombotic complications, increased risk of death, and patient’s response on applied treatment. Nevertheless, this aspect of MPV evaluation allowing its use in clinical practice is limited and requires further studies.
GSK2801, a BAZ2/BRD9 Bromodomain Inhibitor, Synergizes with BET Inhibitors to Induce Apoptosis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Bevill Samantha M. , Olivares-Quintero Jose F. , Sciaky Noah , Golitz Brian T. , Singh Darshan , Beltran Adriana S. , Rashid Naim U. , Stuhlmiller Timothy J. , Hale Andrew , Moorman Nathaniel J. , Santos Charlene M. , Angus Steven P. , Zawistowski Jon S. , Johnson Gary L.
Published: April 2019

Screening of an inhibitor library targeting kinases and epigenetic regulators identified several molecules having antiproliferative synergy with extraterminal domain (BET) bromodomain (BD) inhibitors (JQ1, OTX015) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). GSK2801, an inhibitor of BAZ2A/B BDs, of the imitation switch chromatin remodeling complexes, and BRD9, of the SWI/SNF complex, demonstrated synergy independent of BRD4 control of P-TEFb–mediated pause-release of RNA polymerase II. GSK2801 or RNAi knockdown of BAZ2A/B with JQ1 selectively displaced BRD2 at promoters/enhancers of ETS-regulated genes. Additional displacement of BRD2 from rDNA in the nucleolus coincided with decreased 45S rRNA, revealing a function of BRD2 in regulating RNA polymerase I transcription. In 2D cultures, enhanced displacement of BRD2 from chromatin by combination drug treatment induced senescence. In spheroid cultures, combination treatment induced cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP characteristic of apoptosis in tumor cells. Thus, GSK2801 blocks BRD2-driven transcription in combination with BET inhibitor and induces apoptosis of TNBC.

Implications:

Synergistic inhibition of BDs encoded in BAZ2A/B, BRD9, and BET proteins induces apoptosis of TNBC by a combinatorial suppression of ribosomal DNA transcription and ETS-regulated genes.
The Mealtime Assessment Scale (MAS): Part 1 – Development of a Scale for Meal Assessment
Authors: Pizzorni Nicole , Valentini Debora , Gilardone Marco , Borghi Elisa , Corbo Massimo , Schindler Antonio
Published: April 2019

Aims: Safety and efficacy of swallowing in instrumental assessment may not overlap safety and efficacy of swallowing during meal, as personal and environmental factors can influence the performance. This study aims to develop a scale to assess the safety and efficacy of swallowing during meal. Methods: A working group discussed the latent construct, target population, and purposes of the scale. Items were generated based on the International Classification of Functioning framework. Thirty-nine items were created and divided into 4 subscales. A pilot test was conducted on 40 patients, assessed by a speech and language therapist (SLT) while consuming a meal. In 10 patients, meal observation was simultaneously conducted by 2 SLTs to assess inter-rater agreement. Criteria for identification of items candidate for exclusion or revision were defined. Results: Twelve items were “not assessable” in at least 10% of the patients. An inter-item correlation r >0.7 was found in 2 cases and a discrimination index equal to 0 in 7/22 items. Inter-rater agreement was satisfactory. After item revision, the Mealtime Assessment Scale (MAS) was created, including 26 items divided into 4 subscales. Conclusion: The MAS was developed to assess the safety and efficacy of swallowing during meal. A validation process should be conducted.
Effects of the Narrative Intervention Program for Preschool Portuguese Children
Authors: Lourenço Isabel , Rocha Joana , Peixoto Vânia , Lousada Marisa
Published: April 2019

Objective: This article analyzes the contribution of a narrative intervention program in linguistic performance (measured by the percentage of correct consonants [PCC], mean length of utterance [MLU], and auditory memory [AM]) of children. Patients and Methods: A group of 14 children with primary language impairments participated in this study. The children were divided into two groups (seven children in each): the narrative intervention group (experimental group) and the control group. All children were treated by the same speech-language therapist. The narrative intervention program consisted of eight weekly group sessions. Outcome measures of PCC, MLU, and AM (of pseudowords, words, sentences, and orders) were taken before and after intervention. A qualitative assessment of the intervention effects from the perspective of the children’s parents was also included. Results: The results suggest improvements in PCC and MLU but no support for intervention effectiveness on these measures. In AM, the results indicate a significant intervention effect on words and orders. Parents reported intervention to be favorable/very favorable. Conclusion: The narrative intervention program was effective in enhancing children’s AM. However, further investigation is required to provide clinical evidence for speech and language therapists to employ this program for children with primary language impairments.
Behavioral and Biochemical Features of the Course and Surgical Treatment of Experimental Obstructive Hydrocephalus in Young Rats
Authors: Volpon Santos Marcelo , da Silva Lopes Luiza , Machado Hélio Rubens , Santos de Oliveira Ricardo
Published: April 2019

Introduction: Hydrocephalus is a multifactorial disease, affecting the dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and leading to severe neurological impairment in children; in spite of the recent advances in hydrocephalus research, it has many physiopathological aspects that still remain poorly understood, especially after treatment. Objectives: To analyze the clinical, radiological, histopathological, and biochemical aspects of kaolin-induced hydrocephalus in an experimental model, both in the acute phase and after shunt treatment, by means of behavioral tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, histopathological studies, and level of inflammatory interleukins in the CSF. Methods: Seven-day-old Wistar rats were used and subdivided into three subgroups: treated hydrocephalic (n = 24), untreated hydrocephalic (n = 17), and controls (n = 5). The hydrocephalic groups underwent cisternal injection of 15% kaolin for induction of hydrocephalus at 7 days of age. The treated group was submitted to a ventricular-subcutaneous shunt (VSCS) 1 week after induction. All animals were euthanized at 21 days of age. They underwent motor function and memory testing as well as brain MRI scans. Histopathological analysis for glial fibrillary acidic protein and Ki-67 was done, and CSF was collected for measurement of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Results: The average time to reach the water maze platform was highest in the untreated hydrocephalic group. The magnetization transfer rates were 37.21 and 33.76 before and after shunting, respectively. The mean astrocyte counts were 2.45, 1.36, and 90.5 for shunted, untreated, and control animals, respectively. The mean CSF IL-1β concentrations were 62.3 and 249.6 pg/mL, the average IL-6 levels were 104.2 and 364.7 pg/mL, and the average TNF-α values were 4.9 and 170.5 pg/mL for the treated hydrocephalic group and the untreated group, respectively. Conclusions: Pups treated with a CSF shunt showed better performance on memory tests. VSCS did not revert demyelination caused by hydrocephalus. Likewise, reactive astrocytosis and cell proliferation over the germinal matrix were not reversed after shunting. Hydrocephalic animals had raised levels of inflammatory interleukins, which returned to normal after treatment.
Trismus as a Presenting Symptom in a Case of Progressive Encephalopathy with Rigidity and Myoclonus
Authors: Blomme Lies , Van de Velde Kirsten
Published: April 2019

In this report we present a clinical case of trismus. The patient in question showed symptoms of trismus for 3 days, rapidly leading to respiratory insufficiency. Afterwards she developed myoclonus and progressive encephalopathy. Neurological workup showed no relevant abnormalities. A CT of the abdomen revealed a mass in the lower abdomen, which turned out to be an ovarian teratoma. Progressive encephalopathy with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM) was diagnosed clinically. Treatment with corticosteroids, benzodiazepines, and levetiracetam did not ameliorate the patient’s condition. Only after the introduction of plasmapheresis was there a spectacular improvement in her clinical state. In this case we could not detect associated antibodies. The most likely cause of PERM is paraneoplastic disease secondary to ovarian teratoma. This type of tumor has been associated with multiple paraneoplastic neurological conditions, but this is the first case associated with PERM. To date there is only one publication on trismus as a sole presenting sign, with a quite similar disease course.
Is the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Good for the Kidney in Acute Settings?
Authors: Dudoignon Emmanuel , Dépret François , Legrand Matthieu
Published: April 2019

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a major role in the regulation of blood pressure, renal hemodynamic, myocardial contractility via an enzymatic cascade leading to the synthesis of angiotensin 2. The activation of the RAAS system after acute kidney injury triggers renal inflammation and fibrotic process with long-term damaging consequences. To date, there is still a debate on the benefits of RAAS for the kidney in acute settings. Effects of RAAS antagonists are variable in chronic or acute conditions. The aim of this review is to discuss the renal and systemic effects of the RAAS, and its modulation, in acute situations.
Circadian Rhythm of Vascular Function in Midlife Adults
Authors: Thosar Saurabh S. , Berman Alec M. , Herzig Maya X. , McHill Andrew W. , Bowles Nicole P. , Swanson Christine M. , Clemons Noal A. , Butler Matthew P. , Clemons Aaron A. , Emens Jonathan S. , Shea Steven A.
Published: April 2019

Objective—

Adverse cardiovascular events occur more frequently in the morning than at other times of the day. Vascular endothelial function (VEF)—a robust cardiovascular risk marker—is impaired during this morning period. We recently discovered that this morning impairment in VEF is not caused by either overnight sleep or the inactivity that accompanies sleep. We determined whether the endogenous circadian system is responsible for this morning impairment in VEF. We also assessed whether the circadian system affects mechanistic biomarkers, that is, oxidative stress (malondialdehyde adducts), endothelin-1, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Approach and Results—

Twenty-one (11 women) middle-aged healthy participants completed a 5-day laboratory protocol in dim light where all behaviors, including sleep and activity, and all physiological measurements were evenly distributed across the 24-hour period. After baseline testing, participants underwent 10 recurring 5-hour 20-minute behavioral cycles of 2-hour 40-minute sleep opportunities and 2 hours and 40 minutes of standardized waking episodes. VEF, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured, and venous blood was sampled immediately after awakening during each wake episode. Independent of behaviors, VEF was significantly attenuated during the subjective night and across the morning (
P
=0.04). Malondialdehyde adducts and endothelin-1 exhibited circadian rhythms with increases across the morning vulnerable period and peaks around noon (
P
≤0.01). Both systolic (
P
=0.005) and diastolic blood pressure (
P
=0.04) were rhythmic with peaks in the late afternoon.

Conclusions—

The endogenous circadian system impairs VEF and increases malondialdehyde adducts and endothelin-1 in the morning vulnerable hours and may increase the risk of morning adverse cardiovascular events in susceptible individuals.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02202811.
Impaired Cholesterol‐Uptake Capacity of HDL Might Promote Target‐Lesion Revascularization by Inducing Neoatherosclerosis After Stent Implantation
Authors: Nagano Yuichiro , Otake Hiromasa , Toba Takayoshi , Kuroda Koji , Shinkura Yuto , Tahara Natsuko , Tsukiyama Yoshiro , Yanaka Kenichi , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Nagasawa Akira , Onishi Hiroyuki , Sugizaki Yoichiro , Takeshige Ryo , Harada Amane , Murakami Katsuhiro , Kiriyama Maria , Oshita Toshihiko , Irino Yasuhiro , Kawamori Hiroyuki , Ishida Tatsuro , Toh Ryuji , Shinke Toshiro , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: April 2019

Background

We evaluated the importance of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality for target‐lesion revascularization in patients treated with coronary stents using a rapid cell‐free assay system to evaluate the functional capacity of HDL to accept additional cholesterol (cholesterol‐uptake capacity; CUC).

Methods and Results

From an optical coherence tomography (OCT) registry of patients treated with coronary stents, 207 patients were enrolled and their HDL was functionally evaluated by measuring the CUC. Follow‐up OCT was performed (median duration, 24.5 months after stenting) to evaluate the presence of neoatherosclerosis. Clinical follow‐up was performed to assess target‐lesion revascularization for a median duration of 42.3 months after stent implantation. Neoatherosclerosis was identified in 37 patients (17.9%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a decreased CUC was independently associated with neoatherosclerosis (odds ratio, 0.799;
P
<0.001). The CUC showed a significant inverse correlation with incidence of target‐lesion revascularization (odds ratio, 0.887;
P
=0.003) and with lipid accumulation inside stents, suggesting that neoatherosclerosis contributes to the association between CUC and target‐lesion revascularization.

Conclusions

Impaired HDL functionality, detected as decreased CUC, might lead to future stent failure by provoking atherogenic changes of the neointima within stents. Both quantitative and qualitative assessments of HDL might enable the improved prediction of clinical outcomes after stent implantation.
New loricariid fishes from headwaters on Serra da Mantiqueira and Complexo do Espinhaço, Minas Gerais State, Brazil (Teleostei: Siluriformes: Loricariidae)
Authors: DE OLIVEIRA JOSÉ C. , OYAKAWA OSVALDO T.
Published: April 2019

Three new species, of three different genera of loricariids, are described from the headwaters of Serra da Mantiqueira and Cadeia do Espinhaço, in Southeastern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. In this region, the Serra da Mantiqueira and the Complexo do Espinhaço are the highest points of the Brazilian Shield and delimits the headwaters of four drainages: São Francisco, Paraná, Doce and Paraíba do Sul basins. Harttia intermontana, n. sp., is described from the headwaters of the Rio Doce basin and is the first record of the genus in this basin. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the pattern of abdominal covering, presence of preanal plates, presence and pattern of ornamentation of canal plate, and some characteristics related to sexual dimorphism. Pareiorhaphis togoroi, n. sp., is described from the headwaters of the Rio das Mortes basin, tributary to the Rio Grande, in the upper Rio Paraná drainage, and represents the first record of the genus to this drainage, thus expanding its geographic distribution. It can be distinguished from most congeners by the absence of preadipose azygous plates, and characteristics related to secondary sexual characters of mature males: presence of odontodes on the lateral margin of head plus the absence of long hypertrophied odontodes on pectoral-fin spine. Neoplecostomus pirangaensis, n. sp., is described from the headwaters of the Rio Piranga, Rio Doce basin. The new species differs from all congeners by the much-reduced dermal platelets on the abdomen, devoid of developed odontodes between the insertions of the pectoral and pelvic fins. Neoplecostomus pirangaensis can also be distinguished from all congeners, except N. botucatu and N. paranensis, due to the complete absence of vestiges of the adipose fin (vs. vestiges, or adipose fin moderate to well developed and always present). The new species differs from N. botucatu by the absence of conspicuous dark spots all over the body and the presence of common dorsal bands in juveniles, and almost totally black in adults. It differs from N. paranensis by the bigger and less numerous teeth. Additionally, the new species differs from Neoplecostomus doceensis by the absence of enlarged fleshy folds between dentaries, and absence of a lateronasal plate.
The return of the Duke—locality data for Megadytes ducalis Sharp, 1882,
the world's largest diving beetle, with notes on related species (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae)
Authors: HENDRICH LARS , MANUEL MICHAEL , BALKE MICHAEL
Published: April 2019

Megadytes (Bifurcitus) ducalis Sharp, 1882 is the largest diving beetle in the world and has been considered a candidate for the world’s rarest insect (Jones 2010). It was described from "Brazil", is only known from the male holotype in the Natural History Museum (London), and typically thought to be extinct. Here we report the finding of 10 additional specimens, all collected at the end of the 19th century, which were discovered incidentally in different historical collections, including drawers with unsorted diving beetle accessions of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Paris). These specimens, whilst old, reveal exact locality data for the first time, enabling focused field campaigns to attempt to rediscover this giant alive. Locality labels all indicate Santo Antônio da Barra (present name Condeúba), in the southern part of Bahia, Brazil, suggesting that the species may have a restricted distribution in wetter parts of the Brazilian savanna or cerrado. We also describe the female of M. ducalis for the first time and present new records of the putatively closely related species Megadytes magnus Trémouilles & Bachmann, 1980 and M. lherminieri (Guérin-Méneville, 1829), the latter being recorded for the first time from Ecuador. These three morphologically similar species together form the subgenus Bifurcitus Brinck, 1945 and we provide photographs of their habitus, median lobes and other morphological details.
Effects of stabilization patterns on the static and fatigue behavior of glass fiber non-crimp fabric composites
Authors: Ullah Nasir Sana , Shahzad Asim
Published: April 2019

Experimental studies have been conducted to evaluate static tensile and tension–tension fatigue response of unidirectional glass fiber non-crimp fabric composites subject to seven different stabilization patterns (two multiaxial and five uniaxial stabilizing yarns). The effect of stabilization patterns on non-crimp fabric is crucial as they produce different mesoscale bundle shapes and bundle volume fractions which may affect the static and fatigue properties of non-crimp fabric composites. The studies show that tensile modulus and fatigue life decline with increasing amount of uniaxial stabilizations. Different stabilizations with different bundle shapes influence the final composite properties through various factors than just the volume fraction. The multiaxial stabilizations with higher static tensile strength have shorter fatigue life as compared to uniaxial stabilizations with lower tensile strength. As the areal weight of stabilizing yarns increases, fatigue life decreases at all stress levels which show the deleterious effects of stabilizations on the fatigue behavior of composites. Areal weight and orientation of stabilizing yarns should be optimally selected for the anticipated performance of the non-crimp fabric composites.
Bisexual Lives and Aging in Context: A Cross-National Comparison of the United Kingdom and the United States
Authors: Jen Sarah , Jones Rebecca L.
Published: April 2019

Research on bisexual histories and identities in later life is limited and reflects only single-nation studies. This article compares findings from two independently conducted studies of bisexual aging, in the United Kingdom and the United States, using a discourse analytic and life course perspective. The goals were to compare how participants narrated and made sense of their bisexual experiences in later life and to examine ways in which historical and cultural contexts shaped their accounts. Findings indicate that similar histories around lesbian separatism and the HIV/AIDS epidemic enabled shared discursive resources, while differing ethnic and racial relations enabled distinctive discursive possibilities. In both studies intersectional experiences, particularly including being a person of color and having a transgender history, profoundly affected individual narratives. Future research will benefit from creative conceptualizations of bisexuality, applying the life course perspective in research and practice, and supporting the diverse and resilient ways bisexual older adults use language.
Laryngeal Lipoma Associated with Diffuse Lipomatosis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Durr Megan L. , Agrawal Nishant , Saunders John R. , Ha Patrick K.
Published: April 2019

Lipomas are benign mesenchymal tumors that are often found in the head and neck. Intrinsic lipomas of the larynx and supraglottic area are rare, as fewer than 115 cases have been reported in the literature; almost all of these occurred in isolation. We report a case of a laryngeal lipoma that was associated with diffuse systemic lipomatosis. The tumor was successfully removed via an endoscopic laser resection. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second case of laryngeal lipoma associated with lipomatosis to be reported in the English-language literature. We also review the literature on head and neck lipomas.
Radiologic Findings after Successful Chemoradiation for Nasopharyngeal cancer with Skull Base Erosion
Authors: Ampil Federico , Sangster Guillermo , Mills Glenn , Nathan Cherie Ann , Lian Timothy , Hall Andrew
Published: April 2019

Nonoperative management is generally accepted as a treatment strategy for nasopharyngeal cancer characterized by destruction of the skull base. Chemoradiotherapy is considered the standard of care in these cases. We report a case in which imaging studies documented the successful treatment of the patient's locally extensive nasopharyngeal carcinoma with this nonsurgical approach.
Calcified Maxillary Cyst Secondary to a Foreign-Body Reaction at the Site of a Remote Tooth Extraction
Authors: Langerman Alexander , Sigari Farhad , Naclerio Robert
Published: April 2019

Unilateral sinus disease has a wide differential diagnosis. When a patient has a history of maxillary dental work on the same side as the sinusitis, a foreign entity introduced during or subsequent to the dental manipulation must he considered. We present a case of calcified maxillary cyst that was discovered at the site of a remote tooth extraction. Pathologic analysis revealed the presence of vegetable matter within the cyst. To the best of our knowledge, no case of a maxillary cyst secondary to vegetable matter has been previously reported in the literature.
Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Nasal Cavity: A Case Report
Authors: Acevedo Jason L. , Nolan Jennifer , Markwell J. Kevin , Thompson David
Published: April 2019

Pleomorphic adenomas of the nasal cavity are rare. We describe the case of a middle-aged white man who presented to our clinic with a long history of unilateral nasal obstruction. Preoperative imaging was performed, and the patient was taken to the operating room for endoscopic excision of the lesion. Surgical margins were negative. The patient's nasal obstruction resolved, and he was doing well at his first postoperative visit. The pathologic diagnosis was a pleomorphic adenoma. We discuss the features and management of this entity.
Everyday financialization: The case of UK households
Authors: Hillig Ariane
Published: April 2019

In recent decades, the UK government has been promoting private asset ownership while reducing publicly funded welfare programmes. This asset-based welfare approach calls on households to accumulate assets for the purpose of providing financial security during periods of income shortfall. Informed by Foucault’s concept of governmentality and drawing on semi-structured interviews, I explore how norms of asset ownership are constructed and embedded in everyday life. The empirical insights presented here reveal a twofold contribution to the literature. First, looking to debates within the financialization of everyday life literature, I demonstrate that UK households conform to asset norms despite being critical of them. Households develop a three-pronged asset-accumulation strategy consisting of homeownership, savings and pension investments. Second, I shed light on the interplay between norms of asset ownership and work relationships. To be able to save and invest, interviewed households increase work hours, choose a job solely based on income and make sure to work hard. Asset norms thus reinforce existing power relationships incorporated in capital–labour inequalities.
Austerity urbanism or pragmatic municipalism? Local government responses to fiscal stress in New York State
Authors: Aldag Austin M , Kim Yunji , Warner Mildred E
Published: April 2019

As local governments respond to fiscal stress after the global financial crisis, some scholars warn about an austerity urbanism response wherein local governments cut and privatize services, while others see a pragmatic municipalism response that seeks to protect public services by sharing services, applying for more grants, or charging user fees. Existing empirical works lack detail about the types of local government responses and their drivers. Using a structural equation model with 2017 survey data of 919 counties and municipalities in New York State, we explore the drivers of perceived fiscal stress and two responses: cuts and pragmatic municipalism. We find economy, demography, and state policy drive perceptions of fiscal stress and differentiate responses. The dominant response is pragmatic municipalism, and cuts are only dominant in counties and places with more tax-exempt property. Pragmatic municipalism is found not only in places with larger college-educated populations, left-leaning governing boards, and stronger support for maintaining and providing services, but also in places with greater anti-tax sentiments, poverty, and lack of resources for innovation. These results show that local governments use pragmatic approaches to hold back the tide of austerity pressures and respond to local needs within constraints.
Dose- and duration-dependent cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in human hepato carcinoma cells due to CdTe QDs exposure
Authors: Katubi KM , Alzahrani FM , Ali D , Alarifi S
Published: April 2019

Nanotechnology has achieved more commercial attention over recent years, and its application has increased concerns about its discharge in the environment. In this study, we have chosen human hepatic carcinoma (HuH-7) cells because liver tissue has played an important role in human metabolism. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine DNA damaging and apoptotic potential of cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe QDs; average particle size (APS) 10 nm, 1–25 µg/ml) on HuH-7 cells and the basic molecular mechanism of its cellular toxicity. Cytotoxicity of different concentrations of CdTe QDs on HuH-7 cells was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) tests. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage, and Hoechst 33342 fluorescent staining morphological analysis of necrotic/apoptotic cells were detected; cellular impairment in mitochondria and DNA was confirmed by JC-1 and comet assay, respectively. A dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity effect of CdTe QDs exposure was observed HuH-7 cells; the significant ( p < 0.05) cytotoxicity was found at 25 μg/ml of CdTe QDs exposure. The percentage of cytotoxicity of CdTe QDs (25 μg/ml) in HuH-7 cells reached 62% in 48 h. CdTe QDs elicited intracellular ROS generation and mitochondrial depolarization, and DNA integrity cells collectively advocated the apoptotic cell death at higher concentration. DNA damage was observed in cells due to CdTe QDs exposure, which was mediated by oxidative stress. This study exploring the effects of CdTe QDs in HuH-7 cells has provided valuable insights into the mechanism of toxicity induced by CdTe QDs.
Experimental cryptorchidism enhances testicular susceptibility to dibutyl phthalate or acrylamide in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: de Souza NP , Cardoso AP Ferragut , Gomide LMM , Lima TRR , Miot HA , Martino-Andrade AJ , Arnold LL , Pennington KL , Cohen SM , de Camargo JLV , Nascimento e Pontes MG
Published: April 2019

Cryptorchidism (CPT), the most common male congenital abnormality, is variably associated with other male reproductive tract problems. We evaluated if cryptorchid rats develop enhanced testicular susceptibility to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) or acrylamide (AA) after extended exposure. Three studies with rats were performed: (1) in utero and postnatal exposure to DBP or AA; (2) establishment of CPT and orchiopexy; and (3) in utero and postnatal exposures to DBP or AA associated with CPT/orchiopexy. Seminiferous tubules were histologically scored according to the severity of lesions: (1) Rats exposed to DBP (score 1.5) or AA (score 1.1) presented mostly preserved spermatogenesis. Some seminiferous tubules showed vacuolated germinative epithelium, germ cell apoptosis, and a Sertoli cell-only (SCO) pattern. (2) CPT (score 3.3) resulted in decreased absolute testes weights, degenerated and SCO tubules, and spermatogenesis arrest that were reversed by orchiopexy (score 1.1). (3) Exposure to DBP or AA with CPT/orchiopexy led to atrophic testes, spermatogenesis arrest, germ cell exfoliation/multinucleation, and SCO tubules (both chemicals score 2.5). Exposure to chemicals such as DBP or AA prevented the recovery of cryptorchid testes by orchiopexy. The possible role of environmental contaminants should be considered when looking for factors that modulate human testicular disorders associated with CPT.
Predictive value of scoring systems for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in emergency department patients: Is there an accurate one?
Authors: Ak Rohat , Doğanay Fatih , Unal Akoğlu Ebru , Akoğlu Haldun , Uçar Aslı Bahar , Kurt Erdem , Arslan Turan Cansu , Onur Ozge
Published: April 2019

Background:

Acute appendicitis is one of the challenging surgical conditions presented in the emergency departments. Clinical scoring systems were developed to reduce the negative appendectomy rate and also to avoid unnecessary diagnostic evaluation.

Objectives:

The primary aim was to compare the clinical adequacy of the Alvarado, Acute Inflammatory Response, and the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis scores in patients with right lower quadrant pain for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Methods:

This was a prospective and observational study. All patients over the age of 18 years who presented with a complaint of right lower quadrant pain were enrolled. The Alvarado, Acute Inflammatory Response, and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis scoring systems were compared. The patients were either admitted or followed-up as out-patient. Face-to-face or telephone follow-up visits were arranged for the patients who did not have surgery and who were not admitted.

Results:

232 patients were included and 14 patients were excluded from the study. Of the 218 patients, 114 patients underwent surgery. Of the 114 patients, 107 patients were pathologically diagnosed with acute appendicitis. It was determined that Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis score was the most valuable score with 0.88 accuracy, followed by Acute Inflammatory Response (area under the curve = 0.79) and Alvarado (area under the curve = 0.71) scores.

Conclusion:

The accuracy of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis scoring system was higher for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis than the other scores. The cut-off of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis score from a 7.5-point threshold provides a practical, non-invasive, rapid diagnostic method that increases acute appendicitis discriminative power in patients presenting with right lower quadrant pain.
How and When Is Role Modeling Effective? The Influence of Mentee Professional Identity on Mentoring Dynamics and Personal Learning Outcomes
Authors: Weinberg Frankie J.
Published: April 2019

In this conceptual document, I present a critical model of mentoring that suggests that mentee professional identity influences how role modeling occurs and, as a consequence, shapes mentoring learning outcomes. The model suggests that the role modeling function of mentoring might not always be beneficial and that the degree to which a mentee has a well-defined professional identity will affect when role modeling supports personal learning, specifically, the outcome of personal adaptability. Although reliance on traditional, exchange-based modeling and emulation are helpful as mentees work to establish their professional identities, it is expected to produce less favorable and potentially detrimental learning outcomes as mentees begin to develop more well-established self-identities. Accordingly, this article contributes to the extant discussion on mentoring to suggest that mentoring relationships characterized by mutuality produce a path that better suits the learning needs of those mentees whose professional identities are better defined. The model is delimited according to phases of the mentoring relationship and asserts that this proposed effect is likely to become salient in the cultivation phase. I derive from these assertions a series of testable propositions that set the stage for future research and outline steps that mentor models may consider to meet their mentees’ learning needs through authentic mentoring practices.
Evaluation of appropriate use of bisphosphonates and denosumab in patients with cancer
Authors: Gyori Derek J , Bullington Susan M , Crawford Brooke S , Vernon Veronica P
Published: April 2019

Background

National guidelines recommend screening and treatment for cancer-related bone disease and continued monitoring of bone-modifying agents. It is unclear whether a standardized screening tool is utilized to identify eligible patients and ensure appropriate supportive care is implemented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current prescribing practices and optimize management of bone-modifying agents.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients who received hormone deprivation therapy or had bone metastases through Hematology/Oncology or Urology clinics from 1 November 2016 to 31 October 2017. The primary endpoints of this study were the incidence of completed baseline dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan for patients on hormone deprivation therapy and percent of patients started on a bone-modifying agent for the prevention of skeletal-related events secondary to bone metastasis. Secondary endpoints included percent of patients with dental examinations prior to initiation, adequate calcium and vitamin D supplementation, incidence of osteonecrosis of the jaw or flu-like symptoms and education, and percent of bisphosphonate doses appropriately adjusted based on renal function.

Results

A total of 375 patients were assessed for baseline DEXA scans and bone-modifying therapy. Of the 226 patients on hormone deprivation therapy, 111 (49%) patients were appropriately screened with a DEXA scan prior to initiation of hormone deprivation therapy. Among the 149 patients with bone metastases, only 94 (63.1%) patients were started on a bone-modifying agent.

Conclusions

Opportunities have been identified to optimize management of patients with cancer-related bone disease. Implementation of standardized tools may increase the rate of appropriate screening and initiation of bone-modifying therapy when warranted.