bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the acid stress response of clinical genotypeVibrio vulnificusisolated from the marine environments of Mangaluru coast, India
Authors: D’Souza Caroline , Prabhakar Alva Prathiksha , Karanth Padyana Anupama , Karunasagar Iddya , Karunasagar Indrani , Kumar Ballamoole Krishna
Published: May 2019

Gastric acidity is one of the earliest host defences faced by ingested organisms, and successful pathogens need to overcome this hurdle. The objective of this study was the systematic assessment of acid-stress response of Vibrio vulnificus isolated from coastal regions of Mangaluru. Acid-shock experiments were carried out at pH 4.0 and pH 4.5, with different experimental conditions expected to produce a varied acid response. Exposure to mild acid before the acid shock was favourable to the bacteria but was dependent on cell population and pH of the media and was independent of the strains tested. Lysine-dependent acid response was demonstrated with reference to the previously identified lysine decarboxylase system. Additionally, the results showed that inoculation into oysters provided some level of protection against acid stress. Increased expression of lysine/cadaverine genes was observed upon the addition of ground oyster and was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR. The potential role of ornithine was analyzed with regard to acid stress, but no change in the survival pattern was observed. These findings highlight the physiology of bacteria in acid stress.
High-order harmonic generation with a single-color mid-infrared laser field by frequency-chirping
Authors: Wang Yunhui , Song Dandan , Zuo Qiang , Wu Hong , Yang Zhihong
Published: May 2019

By numerically solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for helium atoms in a single mid-infrared laser field, we explore the frequency-chirping effect of laser field on high-order harmonic and isolated attosecond pulse generation. One or two ultrabroad supercontinuum harmonic plateaus can be controlled through modulating the laser field frequency by a small time-dependent signal. Under the best chirping condition, an ultrashort 2.2 as pulse can be obtained by Fourier transformation with the bandwidth of 782 eV. Furthermore, we explain the harmonic generation physical mechanisms by classical ionizing and returning energy maps and time–frequency analyzes.
Information filtering based on eliminating redundant diffusion and compensating balance
Authors: Liu Xiangchun , Su Xin , Ma Jinming , Zhu Yuxiao , Zhu Xuzhen , Tian Hui
Published: May 2019

In statistical physics, researchers concentrate on mass diffusion and heat conduction-based information filtering models, which effectively facilitate recommendation accuracy and diversity. There are many improved methods combining mass diffusion with heat conduction theories. Research results show that the best results are achieved when the combination of mass diffusion and heat conduction reaches equilibrium. With elaborative analysis, we find that similarity redundancies derive from the attribute correlations of objects, and deduce the similarity estimation deviation. Considering the former deficiencies, we propose a novel model through eliminating redundant diffusion and compensating balance (shortly ERD-CB), which symmetrically combines mass diffusion with heat conduction process through balance compensation. Three benchmark datasets from Movielens, Amazon and Netflix are used in our extensive experiments. Experiment results show that the ERD-CB model outperforms the benchmarkbaselines for accuracy, diversity and novelty.
A High-Sensitivity and Low-Power Circuit for the Measurement of Abnormal Blood Cell Levels
Authors: Nagulapalli R. , Hayatleh K. , Barker S. , Tammam A. A. , Lidgey F. J. , Yassine N.
Published: May 2019

This paper describes a technique to detect blood cell levels based on the time-period modulation of a relaxation oscillator loaded with an Inter-Digitated Capacitor (IDC). A digital readout circuit has been proposed to measure the time-period difference between the two oscillators loaded with samples of healthy and (potentially) unhealthy blood. A prototype circuit was designed in 65-nm CMOS technology and post-layout simulations show 15.25-aF sensitivity. The total circuit occupies 2,184-[Formula: see text]m2 silicon area and consumes 216[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A from a 1-V power supply.
Quantum cosmology of a Hořava–Lifshitz model coupled to radiation
Authors: Oliveira-Neto G. , Martins L. G. , Monerat G. A. , Corrêa Silva E. V.
Published: May 2019

In the present paper, we canonically quantize a homogeneous and isotropic Hořava–Lifshitz cosmological model, with constant positive spatial sections and coupled to radiation. We consider the projectable version of that gravitational theory without the detailed balance condition. We use the Arnowitt–Deser–Misner (ADM) formalism to write the gravitational Hamiltonian of the model and the Schutz variational formalism to write the perfect fluid Hamiltonian. We find the Wheeler–DeWitt equation for the model, which depends on several parameters. We study the case in which parameter values are chosen so that the solutions to the Wheeler–DeWitt equation are bounded. Initially, we solve it using the Many Worlds interpretation. Using wave packets computed with the solutions to the Wheeler–DeWitt equation, we obtain the scalar factor expected value [Formula: see text]. We show that this quantity oscillates between finite maximum and minimum values and never vanishes. Such result indicates that the model is free from singularities at the quantum level. We reinforce this indication by showing that by subtracting one standard deviation unit from the expected value [Formula: see text], the latter remains positive. Then, we use the DeBroglie–Bohm interpretation. Initially, we compute the Bohm’s trajectories for the scale factor and show that they never vanish. Then, we show that each trajectory agrees with the corresponding [Formula: see text]. Finally, we compute the quantum potential, which helps understanding why the scale factor never vanishes.
Tunable wavelength conversion based on optofluidic infiltrated photonic crystal fibers
Authors: Pakarzadeh H. , Derakhshan R. , Hosseinabadi S.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, wavelength conversion based on optofluidic infiltration of photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) is investigated to achieve the suitable wavelength over wide tunable range. For this purpose, two designs of PCFs (the so-called PCF1 and PCF2) with appropriate dispersion properties are simulated, and wavelength conversion via four-wave mixing process for pump wavelengths in both normal and anomalous dispersion regimes is studied. By changing the refractive index [Formula: see text] of the optical fluid infiltrated into the PCF air-holes and then varying the fiber dispersion properties, the converted wavelength region can be tuned. The results show that for the pump wavelength in the normal dispersion regime, the PCF1 infiltrated with [Formula: see text] and PCF2 infiltrated with [Formula: see text] exhibit the maximum wavelength shift. Moreover, the wavelength shift is much higher than that obtained in the anomalous dispersion regime and it can be further increased by increasing the input pump power.
Boundary Layer Detection Techniques Applied to Edge Detection
Authors: Guillén-Reyes Fernando O. , Domínguez-Mota Francisco J.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we describe a novel algorithm for edge detection on a digital image, which is based locally on the directional averaged gradient properties of the intensity function, and produces very satisfactory results in high-resolution digital images in low execution time. Several examples show results which are comparable to those obtained by Canny and Sobel methods.
q-Congruences, with applications to supercongruences and the cyclic sieving phenomenon
Authors: Gorodetsky Ofir
Published: May 2019

We establish a supercongruence conjectured by Almkvist and Zudilin, by proving a corresponding [Formula: see text]-supercongruence. Similar [Formula: see text]-supercongruences are established for binomial coefficients and the Apéry numbers, by means of a general criterion involving higher derivatives at roots of unity. Our methods lead us to discover new examples of the cyclic sieving phenomenon, involving the [Formula: see text]-Lucas numbers.
Matrix factorizations and orthogonal polynomials
Authors: Dominici Diego
Published: May 2019

We present some elements of the theory of orthogonal polynomials based on matrix decompositions. We focus our attention on discrete linear functionals, and use the Meixner polynomials as a concrete example.
Rational Targeting of Cooperating Layers of the Epigenome Yields Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy against AML
Authors: Duy Cihangir , Teater Matt , Garrett-Bakelman Francine E. , Lee Tak C. , Meydan Cem , Glass Jacob L. , Li Meng , Hellmuth Johannes C. , Mohammad Helai P. , Smitheman Kimberly N. , Shih Alan H. , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Tallman Martin S. , Guzman Monica L. , Muench David , Grimes H. Leighton , Roboz Gail J. , Kruger Ryan G. , Creasy Caretha L. , Paietta Elisabeth M. , Levine Ross L. , Carroll Martin , Melnick Ari M.
Published: May 2019

Disruption of epigenetic regulation is a hallmark of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but epigenetic therapy is complicated by the complexity of the epigenome. Herein, we developed a long-term primary AML ex vivo platform to determine whether targeting different epigenetic layers with 5-azacytidine and LSD1 inhibitors would yield improved efficacy. This combination was most effective in TET2mut AML, where it extinguished leukemia stem cells and particularly induced genes with both LSD1-bound enhancers and cytosine-methylated promoters. Functional studies indicated that derepression of genes such as GATA2 contributes to drug efficacy. Mechanistically, combination therapy increased enhancer–promoter looping and chromatin-activating marks at the GATA2 locus. CRISPRi of the LSD1-bound enhancer in patient-derived TET2mut AML was associated with dampening of therapeutic GATA2 induction. TET2 knockdown in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells induced loss of enhancer 5-hydroxymethylation and facilitated LSD1-mediated enhancer inactivation. Our data provide a basis for rational targeting of cooperating aberrant promoter and enhancer epigenetic marks driven by mutant epigenetic modifiers.

Significance:

Somatic mutations of genes encoding epigenetic modifiers are a hallmark of AML and potentially disrupt many components of the epigenome. Our study targets two different epigenetic layers at promoters and enhancers that cooperate to aberrant gene silencing, downstream of the actions of a mutant epigenetic regulator.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 813
First Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of the Lagothrix Taxon Living in Southern Peru and Northern Bolivia: Lagothrix lagothricha tschudii (Atelidae, Primates), a New Subspecies
Authors: Ruiz-García Manuel , Albino Aymara , Pinedo-Castro Myreya , Zeballos Horacio , Bello Aurita , Leguizamon Norberto , Shostell Joseph Mark
Published: May 2019

We sequenced mitochondrial COI and COII genes (1,377 base pairs) of 166 woolly monkeys (Lagothrix) to determine the phylogenetic relationships of tschudii in reference to the other taxa within the genus Lagothrix, to provide the first genetic diversity level estimates for tschudii, and to reconstruct the historical demographic evolution of this taxon. The sample set included, for the first time, 10 individuals of the elusive tschudii taxon sensu Groves from southern Peru and northern Bolivia. Our phylogenetic analyses showed that these 10 exemplars formed a statistically significant and differentiated (molecularly and morphologically) monophyletic clade relative to other traditional subspecies of Lagothrix lagothricha. Therefore, tschudii should be recognized as a fifth subspecies: Lagothrix lagothricha tschudii. The temporal divergence of the ancestors of tschudii and L. l. cana was estimated to have occurred around 1.8 million years ago (MYA). Additionally, mitochondrial diversification within tschudii started no later than 0.96 MYA (Bayesian Inference) or 0.88 MYA (Median Joining ­Network), respectively. In contrast to the phylogenetic trees, the FSTstatistic and the gene flow estimates showed L. l. lugens to be the least differentiated taxon of L. lagothricha from L. l. tschudii. Based on genetic distances, L. l. tschudii had the smallest average genetic distance from the other subspecies of L. lagothricha.It was also the taxon within L. lagothricha that had the smallest genetic distance from L. flavicauda. It should be related to L. l. tschudii as the first original taxon in L. lagothricha. Furthermore, the Andean mountains were extremely important in the original diversification of the Lagothrix genus and in the original diversification of L. lagothricha. Although L. l. tschudii has the smallest geographical range of all the taxa of L. lagothricha, its genetic diversity is even higher than in other taxa with wider geographical ranges, such as L. l. lagothricha and L. l. cana. L. l. tschudii showed a very slight demographic increase during the Pleistocene with a decrease of females in the last 10,000 Y, similar to that found for L. l. lugens in a previous study.
Nrf2 Activation by SK-119 Attenuates Oxidative Stress, UVB, and LPS-Induced Damage
Authors: Kahremany Shirin , Babaev Ilana , Gvirtz Raanan , Ogen-Stern Navit , Azoulay-Ginsburg Salome , Senderowitz Hanoch , Cohen Guy , Gruzman Arie
Published: May 2019

Background/Aims: The Nrf2 signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in neutralizing excess reactive oxygen species formation and therefore enhancing the endogenous cellular protection mechanism. Thus, activating this pathway may provide therapeutic options against oxidative stress-related disorders. We have recently applied a computer-aided drug design approach to the design and synthesis of novel Nrf2 enhancers. The current study was aimed at investigating the potential beneficial impact of (E)-5-oxo-1-(4-((2,4,6-trihydroxybenzylidene)amino)phenyl)pyrrolidine-3-carboxylic acid (SK-119) in skin oxidative damage models. Methods: SK-119, tested initially in PC-12 cells, attenuated oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity concomitantly with Nrf2 activation. The potential impact of this compound was evaluated in skin-based disease models both in vitro (HaCaT cells) and ex vivo (human skin organ culture). Results: The data clearly showed the marked anti-inflammatory and photoprotection properties of the compound; SK-119-treated cells or tissues displayed a reduction in cytokine secretion induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in a manner comparable with dexamethasone. In addition, topical application of SK-119 was able to block UVB-induced oxidative stress and attenuated caspase-mediated apoptosis, DNA adduct formation, and the concomitant cellular damage. Conclusion: These results indicate that SK-119 is an Nrf2 activator that can be used as a prototype molecule for the development of novel treatments of dermatological disorders related to oxidative stress.
Gestational Age-Dependent Fetal Fluid Dynamics in the Ovine Developmental Model: Establishment of Surrogate Markers for the Differentiation of Stem Cell Origin
Authors: Kehl Debora , Görtz Sabrina , Wang Craig , Hoerstrup Simon P. , Bleul Ulrich , Weber Benedikt
Published: May 2019

The ovine developmental model represents the standard in vivo model for studies involving maternofetal physiology, amniotic fluid (AF) research, and fetal cell therapy prior to human clinical use. Although being close to the human fetal anatomy, 2 separate extraembryonic fluid compartments remain during gestation, known as the amnion and the allantois. A clear distinction between AF versus allantoic fluid (AL) is therefore indispensable for correct scientific conclusions with regard to human translation. In the presented study, the biochemical composition of AF and AL was evaluated in ovine gravid uteri postmortem (n = 31) over the entire gestation. Four parameters, consisting of Na+, Cl–, Mg2+, and total protein, have been found to allow for specific discrimination of the 2 fetal fluids at all gestational phases and therefore as potential surrogate parameters for gestational age. In addition, volumetric changes of the developing fetus and the 2 fetal fluid cavities were analyzed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography (n = 12). AF showed a significant, linear volumetric increase over gestation, whereas AL volume maintained relatively static independent of gestational age. These results serve as a basis for future studies by providing surrogate markers enabling a reliable distinction of isolated fetal fluids and contained cells in the ovine developmental model over the entire gestation.
Cardioprotective Effects of Dronedarone Mediated by the Influence on the Expression of Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Receptor
Authors: Becher Tobias , Seiler Lea , Rudic Boris , Röger Susanne , Tülümen Erol , Liebe Volker , Kuschyk Jürgen , Trinkmann Frederik , Michels Julia , Weiss Christel , Akin Ibrahim , Kälsch Thorsten , Borggrefe Martin , Stach Ksenija
Published: May 2019

Purpose: Dronedarone is a multichannel-blocking antiarrhythmic drug for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Observational data hypothesized a cardioprotective effect. In an in vitro endothelial cell-platelet model, we evaluated the molecular atheroprotective effects of dronedarone. Methods: Following a 24-h incubation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with dronedarone (concentration 50, 100, and 150 ng/mL), they were then stimulated for 1 h with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and were subsequently incubated in direct contact with thrombin-activated platelets. After incubation, the expression of CD40L and CD62P on platelets, and the expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), and membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) on endothelial cells were measured by flow cytometry. Results: Preincubation with 150 ng/mL of dronedarone reduced the expression of uPAR on endothelial cells after proinflammatory stimulation with LPS and also by direct endothelial contact with activated platelets (p = 0.0038). In contrast, the expression of CD40L and CD62P on platelets after proinflammatory stimulation with thrombin was significantly increased through direct preincubation with 50/100/150 ng/mL of dronedarone. However, dronedarone had no effects on the expression of MT1-MMP and ICAM-1 in HUVECs. Conclusion: In this in vitro analysis, dronedarone directly increased platelet activation but showed significant direct effects on endothelial cells and indirect effects on platelets on selected markers of atherosclerosis.
Evaluation of Time to Surgery and Its Effect on Prognosis in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Tham Tristan , Leung Edric , Khaymovich Julian , Mitha Samrah , Olson Caitlin , Wotman Michael , Teegala Sireesha , Coury Josephine , Costantino Peter
Published: May 2019

Background: Recently, time to treatment initiation has been observed to be increasing specifically for head and neck cancer. It is acknowledged that the pattern of increase is reflective of the use of sophisticated diagnostic and therapeutic techniques but was also determined to affect survival. Objectives: Our study sought to further investigate time to surgery (TTS) for surgically treated patients to see whether TTS would influence patient survival. Method: TTS was defined as the time from the earliest pathological report or scan, whichever was earlier, to surgery. The endpoints were overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS). Results: A total of 294 patients with head and neck cancer were included. Patients were organized into TTS quartiles of 0–14 days (quartile 1), 15–29 days (quartile 2), 30–49 days (quartile 3), and ≥50 days (quartile 4). The median follow-up time was 651 days, and the median TTS was 32 days. Using a univariable analysis of Cox regression, TTS was not significantly associated with OS or EFS. Kaplan-Meier curves were not significant for OS (p = 0.8904) and EFS (p = 0.9556). Conclusion: In this cohort study, we could not conclude that TTS was associated with OS or EFS.
Halenia coreana (Gentianaceae), a new species from Korea: Evidence from morphological and molecular data
Authors: HAN SU-MIN , WON HYOSIG , LIM CHAE EUN
Published: May 2019

A new species of Halenia (Gentianaceae) from Korea, H. coreana S.M.Han, H.Won & C.E.Lim, is recognized based on morphological and molecular data, and its description and illustration are provided. It is distinct from H. corniculata in having long, narrower and incurved spurs and attenuated leaf apex. Molecular sequence data of nuclear ribosomal ITS region, nuclear XDH gene, and chloroplast rbcL gene also strongly support its species status.
A revisit to the Melitaea taxon nigrogygia Verity, 1939 (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) and designation of a Lectotype
Authors: RUSSELL PETER , BARTOLOZZI LUCA
Published: May 2019

The two syntypes of Melitaea phoebe nigrogygia Verity, 1939 present in the Florence University Natural History Museum are examined from high quality photographs of both sides. It is concluded that there is a high probability that they represent two different species: M. phoebe ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) and M. ornata Christoph, 1898. Alternatively one or both could be hybrids between the two species; hybrids have been encountered nearby in Slovenia. In order to solve the nomenclatural problem, a Lectotype has been chosen, which fixes the name nigrogygia Verity, 1939 to be associated with Melitaea ornata.
Description of the female of Anasillus crinitus Marinoni & Martins 1978 (Coleoptera: Lamiinae: Acanthoderini) and new distribution records of longhorned beetles for Colombia
Authors: TABOADA-VERONA CARLOS , BOTERO JUAN PABLO
Published: May 2019

Marinoni & Martins (1978) proposed Anasillus for a single species, A. crinitus Marinoni & Martins, 1978, based on a single male specimen from Peru, and until now, the female remained unknown. Herein, the female of this species is described and illustrated for the first time, and its geographical distribution is expanded to Colombia. Additionally, the geographical distribution of seven species of Cerambycidae is expanded to Colombia: Coleoxestia vittata (Thomson, 1861); Sphallenopsis pilosovittata (Bates, 1872); Aneflus (Protaneflus) minutivestis Chemsak & Linsley, 1963; Mallocera amazonica Bates, 1870; Compsibidion charile (Bates, 1870); Alcidion sulphurifer (White, 1855); and Acanthoderes (Acanthoderes) ariasi Chemsak & Hovore, 2002.
The megadiverse fauna of Neotropical Cerambycidae (Coleoptera): Notes, descriptions, new records, new species, and revalidations
Authors: SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , NASCIMENTO FRANCISCO E. DE L. , KOZLOV ANTON OLEGOVICH
Published: May 2019

Holonotus latithorax Thomson, 1861 (Prioninae, Solenopterini), and Periestola Breuning, 1943 (Lamiinae, Acanthocinini) are revalidated. A lectotype is designated for Holonotus latithorax. The following new synonyms are proposed: Lagocheirus plantaris indistinctus Dillon, 1957 = Lagocheirus plantaris plantaris Erichson, 1847 (Lamiinae, Acanthocinini); Paracobelura curiosa Monné & Martins, 1976 = Periestola strandi Breuning, 1943 (Lamiinae, Acanthocinini), with a new country record for Panama; Anisopodus humeralis Bates, 1863 = Anisopodus lignicola Bates, 1863, with a new Brazilian state record. New species are described from Colombia: Lepturges (Lepturges) brechlini; Pseudosparna antonkozlovi; Hyperplatys ushveridzei; Blabia antonkozlovi; and Cycnidolon antonkozlovi. The female of Nealcidion napoensis Nascimento & McClarin, 2018 is described, and the species is reported for Colombia for the first time. Additionally, the following new records are reported: Amniscites pictipes (Bates, 1863) from Colombia; two new department records in Colombia for Onalcidion tavakiliani Audureau, 2013; new department record in Colombia for Trypanidius irroratus Monné & Delfino, 1980; Icublabia multispinosa Galileo & Martins, 2003 for Colombia including additional notes; new department record in Colombia for Blabia intricata Martins & Galileo, 1995; Obrium costaricum Hovore & Chemsak, 1980 for Panama; Pantonyssus nigriceps Bates, 1870 for Colombia; Stizocera geniculata (Pascoe, 1866) for Colombia; and Pygmodeon obtusum (Bates, 1874) for Panama. Stizocera geniculata is also excluded from the fauna of the Brazilian state of Rondônia.
Taxonomic revision of the microleafhopper genus Limassolla Dlabola from Korea (Hemiptrea: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae)
Authors: HOSSAIN MD. SHAMIM , KWON JIN HYUNG , SUH SANG JAE , KWON YONG JUNG
Published: May 2019

Four species belonging to the genus Limassolla Dlabola, 1965 from Korea are revised. Among them, L. koreana sp. nov., an occasional pest of persimmon trees (Diospyros kaki) is new to science. L. macrobipunctata Choe, 1986 (nom. nud.) is validated by providing a description and illustration, and L. multipunctata (Matsumura, 1920) is newly recorded for the Korean fauna. Descriptions, illustrations and a key to the Korean species are provided here.
Two new species of the spider genus Belisana Thorell (Araneae: Pholcidae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China
Authors: ZHAO XIAOCHU , YAO ZHIYUAN , SONG YANG , LI SHUQIANG
Published: May 2019

Two new species of the spider genus Belisana Thorell, 1898 are described based on material collected in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China: Belisana menghai Yao & Li sp. nov. (male, female) and Belisana xishuangbanna  Yao & Li sp. nov. (male), bringing the total Chinese Belisana fauna to 41 species. The DNA barcode COI of B. menghai  Yao & Li sp. nov. is documented. All material studied is deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing, China.
Crossing Categorical Boundaries: A Study of Diversification by Social Movement Organizations
Authors: Wang Dan J. , Rao Hayagreeva , Soule Sarah A.
Published: May 2019

When do protest organizations borrow issues or claims that are outside their traditional domains? Sociologists have examined the consequences of borrowing claims across movement boundaries, but not the antecedents of doing so. We argue that movement boundaries are strong when there is consensus about the core claims of a social movement, which we measure by cohesion and focus. Cohesion and focus enhance the legitimacy of a movement and impede member organizations from adopting claims associated with other movements. Analyzing movement organizational activity at U.S.-based protest events from 1960 to 1995, we find that a social movement organization is less likely to adopt claims from other movements when the social movement in which it is embedded exhibits high cohesion and focus. However, when movement organizations do borrow claims, they are more likely to do so by borrowing from movements that themselves exhibit high cohesion and focus. We describe the application of our findings to organization theory, social movements, and field theoretic approaches to understanding social action.
Presenting a Qualitative Study: A Reviewer’s Perspective
Authors: Peterson Jean S.
Published: May 2019

Intended to guide scholars who are new to qualitative research, this methods brief focuses mostly on what reviewers look for in manuscripts submitted for publication. The author acknowledges that reviewers’ preferences likely reflect their theoretical perspectives, research-oriented coursework, mentors, and research and writing experiences. The emphasis, therefore, is on terminology and basic elements that apply across a broad range of qualitative approaches. Discussion also addresses researcher inclinations toward qualitative inquiry; the importance of fit among approach, purpose, and research questions; the need for manuscript authors to identify potential researcher bias and explain how it was monitored; and the necessity of including and describing other elements that contribute to trustworthiness. Examples from journals in the field represent a wide range of research types, foci, and data sources.
Design of laboratories for teaching mechatronics/electrical engineering in the context of manufacturing upgrades
Authors: Wang Lujiong , Wang Jiping
Published: May 2019

In the context of upgrading of the worldwide manufacturing industry, advanced automatic production systems are adopted in manufacturing enterprises moving towards intelligent manufacturing, which requires comprehensive technical abilities for mechatronic/electrical engineering professionals. This paper presents the laboratories designed for teaching mechatronics/electrical engineering in vocational engineering education, where students can develop industry-relevant skills, which adapt to the requirements of manufacturing industry upgrading. Following the analysis of the professional competence, the practical modules of the syllabus are outlined, and the corresponding labs are designed and implemented. Evaluation results indicate that the practice in the labs is helpful in improving the required technical abilities for the students.
Decolonized and Afrocentric Education: For Centering African Women in Remembering, Re-Membering, and the African Renaissance
Authors: Sesanti Simphiwe
Published: May 2019

The pan-African struggle for decolonization, both in the continent and the diaspora against European slavery and colonialism, was an expression of an African Renaissance (rebirth, reclamation). Colonialism and colonization dismembered Africans through land dispossession and forcible relocation into slavery. Both the physical and cultural dismemberment were entrenched and sustained through Eurocentric education, which sought to displace Africans’ cultural memory, replacing it with European cultural memory. Decolonization struggles were an expression of an African Renaissance because they sought to “regain” and “restore” not only physical, but also cultural freedom. While decolonization struggles succeeded, to an extent, to free Africans from colonialists’ naked physical brutality, colonialism continued beyond Africa’s artificial independence. The reduction of African women, once the recipients of veneration in African culture, into objects of denigration by European colonialism, continued to be the case beyond “independence” because African males, not only inherited political power, but also oppressive cultural attitudes from their colonial masters. This exercise argues that for the African Renaissance project to succeed, a decolonized and Afrocentric education, which would enable Africans to rediscover traditional African education, which regarded human dignity—both women’s and men’s, especially women’s—as an inalienable right, is a prerequisite. The reclamation of a human dignity-affirming education is an act of “remembering,” “re-membering”—an African Renaissance.
Creep behaviour of FM906 glass-fibre epoxy as used in heated fibre metal laminates
Authors: Hagenbeek Michiel , Dias Marcelo M , Sinke Jos , Jansen Kaspar
Published: May 2019

An innovative deicing system for aircraft leading edges has been developed which integrates heater elements into fibre metal laminates. Such an electrical system can lead to weight reductions and more efficient performances compared to conventional bleed air systems. However, the combination of thermal and mechanical loadings also raises new questions on the durability of such a structure, in particular due to the repeated heating to elevated temperature. The linear viscoelastic creep behaviour, including the effects of temperature and ageing, is therefore investigated for manufactured FM906 glass-fibre epoxy composite as used in heated GLARE. A master curve is derived based on the time–temperature and time–age superposition. The effect of physical ageing during loading is included in a long-term creep prediction.
Synthesis and characterization of high-performance epoxy/ Ti3AlC2-reinforced conductive polymer composites
Authors: M.P Vijayakumar , Rangaraj Lingappa , S Raja
Published: May 2019

Titanium aluminium carbide powder was reaction synthesized and used as reinforcement in the aircraft grade epoxy matrix (LY556) to develop a high-performance conductive polymer composite. The particle sizes of 4 and 7 µm were employed from 0 to 40 wt.% to improve the mechanical and electrical properties of conductive polymer composites. It was observed that the percolation characteristics were exhibited at a critical threshold of 20 wt.% for both the filler particle sizes. Further, microstructural observations revealed the formation of a conductive network in the conductive polymer composites when the filler content was 20 wt.%. The tensile and flexural properties were increased when the particle size was decreased. Experimental values were then compared with the available analytical models for validation. The mechanical and electrical properties of the conductive polymer composites were optimized by tailoring the filler particle size to 4 µm and particle loading at 20 wt.%. Compared to neat epoxy, the optimized conductive polymer composites have shown a simultaneous increase in strength, stiffness and conductivity performances, which can find applications in aerospace and electronics industries.
Working Together in Montréal to Improve Veterans’ Well-Being: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Fewster Brenda , Brais Hannah , Gregory Stephen , Paulin Michèle
Published: May 2019

Services for veterans in Canada can be unclear and difficult to navigate for civilian service providers working with veterans. In this article, we feature two Montréal-based initiatives that aim to improve services for veterans through collaboration, the Old Brewery Mission and Respect Forum. We begin by providing background information about Canada’s recent history of military engagements and veterans affairs issues. The first example of collaboration presented is the Sentinelles de la rue (Sentinels of the Street) program, led by the Old Brewery Mission. The Mission works with Montréal’s homeless men and women, meeting their essential needs while finding practical and sustainable solutions to end chronic homelessness. The Mission is now developing a collaborative model in partnership with government departments, veterans peer support organizations, and local health and social services to house and support homeless military veterans. The second example is Respect Forum, a not-for-profit initiative that has been organizing networking events in Montréal, Québec since 2016. The aim of these events is to promote military–civilian and multisectoral collaboration to improve services for veterans. Respect Forum meetings have made it possible to begin bringing together and mapping out local and national service providers working with veterans.
Beyond socialist camaraderie. Cross-border railway between German Democratic Republic, Poland and Soviet Union (1950s–60s)
Authors: Flade Falk
Published: May 2019

In order to facilitate cross-border railway transport between socialist countries in Eastern Europe, the Council of Mutual Economic Assistance and later the Organisation for Cooperation of Railways were established in 1949 and 1956. Joint planning, standardisation and tariff policy were the main fields of cooperation. The paper focuses on the struggles between Council of Mutual Economic Assistance and Organisation for Cooperation of Railways member countries regarding transit tariffs for cross-border freight shipments. These struggles, dragging on for more than three decades, reveal the economic interests of individual member countries and the limitations of socialist foreign trade (and alleged friendship). This study argues that despite of political declarations and the establishment of socialist international organisations, the East European railways became a major bottleneck in intrabloc trade.
Reaction of Dimethylol Urea with Cotton
Authors: Mehta P. C. , Mehta R. D.
Published: May 2019

The reaction of dimethylol urea with cotton over a wide range of pH has been studied. Data are presented to show that the structure of the DMU polymer obtained with strongly acidic catalysts such as organic acids and ammonium salts is highly cross-linked, in contrast to the simple linear structure proposed by Steele and Giddings. Such a structure offers a reasonable explanation of the better washfastness of the DMU finish with these catalysts. The contribution of covalent cross-linking of the resin with cellulose in improving crease recovery is also discussed. The use of cuprammonium insolubility as an index of such cross-linking has been examined.
Reaction of Dimethylol Ethylene Urea with Cotton
Authors: Mehta P. C. , Mody J. R.
Published: May 2019

The reaction of dimethylol ethylene urea with cotton over a wide range of pH has been studied. It has been found that the DMEU polymer has a DP ranging from 2 to 5 depending on the acidity of the catalyst used. This variation in DP does not show a significant effect on fabric properties. The chlorine retention by DMEU-treated cotton fabrics has been reviewed and data have been presented to show the relation between this property and the methylol formaldehyde content of the treated fabric. A method has been suggested for estimating the methylol formaldehyde content. Data have also been presented examining the cuprammonium insolubility as a criterion for covalent cross-linking.
Merit, Diversity, and Performance: Does Diversity Management Moderate the Effect of Merit Principles on Governmental Performance?
Authors: Park Sanghee , Liang Jiaqi
Published: May 2019

The compatibility of merit principles and diversity management is particularly intriguing in theory and practice. Although theoretical arguments for merit-based practices and diversity management are well established, the effect of their dynamics on governmental performance remains an empirical issue. This article examines the effect of merit principles, workforce diversity, and diversity management on government performance, and inquires about whether diversity management efforts moderate the effect of merit-based practices. Analyzing a combined data set on federal agencies, this study finds that merit-based practices and diversity management have independent positive impact on organizational performance, but there is no significant relationship between workforce diversity and performance. Furthermore, the effect of merit-based practices on organizational performance is moderated by gender diversity and diversity management. Specifically, if an agency has a more diverse workforce in terms of gender or more effective diversity management efforts, the positive effect of merit-based practices on organizational performance is strengthened.
Retaining Women Air Force Officers: Work, Family, Career Satisfaction, and Intentions
Authors: King Erika L. , DiNitto Diana , Salas-Wright Christopher , Snowden David
Published: May 2019

Despite efforts to improve women’s military representation, mid-career female officers attrit at twice the rate of male peers. Research and theory suggest women’s turnover is influenced by family life including marriage and parenthood. But previous research has grouped women together, failing to extrapolate which factors influence retention of women with different family types. Thus, this study explored a single career point (mid-career) at different family intersections (married, unmarried, with, and without children) to elucidate work and family factors associated with female officers’ retention decisions. Using 2011 Air Force survey data ( n = 1,309), regression models tested four hypotheses regarding work and family factors associated with different subgroups’ military life satisfaction and career intentions. Findings indicate that after accounting for satisfaction, work factors were insignificant for all subgroups, but family factors (as hypothesized) were significantly associated with married women’s career intentions. Results suggest that policies targeting family support/satisfaction may improve retention.
Vibration Versus Ice to Reduce Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin Injection Pain—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chorney Stephen R. , Villwock Jennifer A. , Suryadevara Amar C.
Published: May 2019

Botulinum toxin is the most commonly performed facial cosmetic procedure and pain at the injection site is a frequent patient concern. While various topical interventions have been described for analgesia, there have not been any studies comparing different techniques. We compared the use of a vibratory stimulus, ice pack application, and no intervention on injection site pain for cosmetic botulinum toxin injection. A prospective-, randomized-, individual-controlled study was conducted using a visual analog scale to assess pain. Patients received bilateral glabellar injections, with randomization into unilateral vibration, unilateral ice application, or vibration and ice on either side. We analyzed 88 injections on 22 patients. Mean visual analog scores were 26.5 (standard deviation [SD]: 23.1) among injections with vibration, 24.4 (SD: 22.9) with ice, and 29.4 (SD: 27.1) without analgesia. There was no significant difference in pain scale scores with the use of vibration, ice, or no topical anesthesia ( P = .737). Further, pain scale scores did not differ significantly between medial and lateral injections nor did patients have a reduction in pain on either side of the forehead regardless of which method was used. While there may be a role for topical interventions to improve injection site analgesia, we maintain that consistently proper technique plays a greater role in improving patient tolerance. Future studies will continue to investigate the role of topical anesthesia in cosmetic facial injections and address patient-specific factors contributing to discomfort.
Pain Management After Surgical Tonsillectomy: Is There a Favorable Analgesic?
Authors: Jotić Ana , Savić Vujović Katarina , Milovanović Jovica , Vujović Aleksandar , Radin Zorana , Milić Nataša , Vučković Sonja , Medić Branislava , Prostran Milica
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to examine how ibuprofen and paracetamol prevent pain after cold-steel extracapsular tonsillectomy in children. Also, we examined the relation between age, gender, nausea, postoperative bleeding, antibiotic use, type of diet, and postoperative pain intensity and the type of administered analgesic. A prospective study was conducted on 147 children (95 males and 52 females, aged 7-17 years) who underwent tonsillectomy in the Clinical-Hospital Center “Dragiša Mišović” from January 1 to June 30, 2016. The degree of pain was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS). We did not observe any significant differences in postoperative nausea, hospitalization rate postoperative bleeding, and antibiotic use between the paracetamol and ibuprofen groups. A test of within-patient effects showed that VAS scores changed significantly during the postoperative follow-up period ( P = .00), but there were no significant differences between the groups ( P = .778). After 12 hours, 29.3% of the patients on paracetamol and 21.8% on ibuprofen were transferred to a soft diet; after 24 hours, 84.8% of the paracetamol group and 85.5% of the ibuprofen group were on a soft diet (χ2test, P < .05). There was a statistically significant correlation between VAS scores measured 4 hours after the surgery and the time of transference to the soft diet (Spearman ρ test, P < .001). The transfer to soft and normal diets was not significantly different between the 2 groups as assessed by the VAS scores (Pearson χ2test, P = .565).There is still no consensus on the most effective postoperative pain-control regiment after tonsillectomy. This study showed that satisfactory pain management was achieved equally with both paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Active Learning: Lessons From Women With Type 2 Diabetes in a Walking Program
Authors: Fritschi Cynthia , Martyn-Nemeth Pamela , Zhu Bingqian , Jung Kim Min
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and preferences of sedentary women with type 2 diabetes who had recently completed a pilot 12-week supervised treadmill walking study.

Methods

A qualitative design was used. Content analysis was used to assess major themes and subthemes embedded within participants’ responses to open-ended questions about their experiences of participating in a walking program. Women were recruited from a database of patients willing to be contacted for research studies.

Results

Seven inner-city women with type 2 diabetes (71% African American, age 62 ± 4.2 years, A1C 6.8% ± 1.3, years since diagnosis 6.6 ± 3.4 years) completed the postprogram interview. Only 3 of the 7 women had ever received any diabetes education. Four major themes emerged: (1) supportive environment, (2) personal commitment: overcoming ambivalence, (3) learning, and (4) outcomes, and 8 subthemes emerged. A supportive environment (encouraging, person centered, social, and structured) in combination with actively learning about diabetes and self-monitoring the effects of exercise seemed to be associated with personal commitment and confidence in participating in a walking program.

Conclusions

Active/experiential learning in a supportive environment may enhance both personal diabetes knowledge and behaviors among women with little diabetes education and low activity levels.
Determinants of Compensation Disclosure: Evidence From Reg. S-K 402(b)
Authors: Yang Ziyun
Published: May 2019

This study investigates the determinants of compensation disclosure transparency in the context of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) compensation regulation of 2006. Specifically, it focuses on incentive-related compensation disclosure required by Reg. S-K 402(b). I find that compensation disclosure transparency is negatively associated with managerial power and proprietary cost but is positively associated with external monitoring. These findings hold for both the pre- and postregulation periods. Furthermore, the effects from proprietary cost become weaker in the postregulation years, and stronger external monitoring tends to reduce the negative relations between compensation disclosure transparency and managerial power and proprietary cost. Finally, I document an inverted U-shape relation between excess CEO compensation and compensation disclosure transparency.
Losing a Little Part of Yourself: Families’ Experiences With Foreclosure
Authors: Collins Cyleste C. , Berg Kristen A.
Published: May 2019

While quantitative studies have described foreclosure’s correlates, and qualitative work has shed light on homeowners’ experiences in general, research has not focused specifically on how families with children younger than 18 years experience foreclosure. This study was an exploratory qualitative examination of families’ experiences with home foreclosure, focusing especially on the meaning(s) the foreclosure had for them. In-depth interviews were conducted with 29 adult homeowners living with children younger than 18 years during their foreclosures. The analysis revealed key themes of foreclosure threatening personal and social identity, family relationships and routines, and emotional attachment and experiences of loss. Adults tended to blame themselves for the foreclosures as opposed to seeing structural forces as responsible for their predicaments. The findings help illuminate some of the potential mechanisms underlying the negative impact of foreclosure. Understanding families’ experiences is critical to formulating services and policies to help affected families regain stability.
Family Troubles, Troubling Families, and Family Practices
Authors: Morgan David H. J.
Published: May 2019

What does it mean to talk of family problems as opposed to individual problems? The use of the word clearly reminds the reader of the relational character of everyday troubles and, more than this, raises particular issues of dependency, mutuality, and obligations. My approach in terms of “family practices” highlights the ways in which everyday actions and reactions continually constitute family life, while the introduction of the term troubling families adds further levels of complexity to do with the boundaries between public and private. I explore these issues through a fictional example (Terence Rattigan’s play The Winslow Boy) as well as sociological case material.