bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The research of human individual’s conformity behavior in emergency situations
Authors: Chen Min
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper (including three studies) is to investigate the idea that individuals in an emergency situation experience significantly a higher level of emotional activation, lower performance of task, and change in decision making, escaping behavior and conformity as compared to being in a non-emergency situation. It is also suggested that the level of emotional activation mediates the association between situation and the performance of task.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 was an experimental study with 43 university students and revealed that different situations induced different levels of emotional activation and they are positively and significantly related. Study 2 was a further exploration of study 1, in which 49 participants were asked to watch a recomposed video telling a reasonable story about escaping from the emergency and complete several tasks associated with two kinds of situations (non-emergency vs emergency). In study 3, 168 participants, randomly assigned to three groups, were asked to work on judgment tasks with different numbers of options.

Findings

Results revealed that individuals in an emergency situation experience significantly lower performance of task and higher conformity tendency than in a non-emergency situation. Also, the causal effect of the situation on the performance of task is mediated by the level of emotional activation. Moreover, results found that the performance of task is also a mediator between the level of emotional activation and conformity. Result showed that the number of choices is negatively related to conformity, and performance is a mediator between the number of choices and conformity.

Originality/value

This paper suggested that the level of emotional activation mediates the association between situation and the performance of task.
Multi-response optimization in environment friendly turning of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Singh Talwinder , Dureja J.S. , Dogra Manu , Bhatti Manpreet S.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of turning parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut on tool flank wear and machined surface quality of AISI 304 stainless steel during environment friendly turning under nanofluid minimum quantity lubrication (NMQL) conditions using PVD-coated carbide cutting inserts.

Design/methodology/approach

Turning experiments are conducted as per the central composite rotatable design under the response surface methodology. ANOVA and regression analysis are employed to examine significant cutting parameters and develop mathematical models for VB (tool flank wear) and Ra (surface roughness). Multi-response desirability optimization approach is used to investigate optimum turning parameters for simultaneously minimizing VB and Ra.

Findings

Optimal input turning parameters are observed as follows: cutting speed: 168.06 m/min., feed rate: 0.06 mm/rev. and depth of cut: 0.25 mm with predicted optimal output response factors: VB: 106.864 µm and Ra: 0.571 µm at the 0.753 desirability level. ANOVA test reveals depth of cut and cutting speed-feed rate interaction as statistically significant factors influencing tool flank wear, whereas cutting speed is a dominating factor affecting surface roughness. Confirmation tests show 5.70 and 3.71 percent error between predicted and experimental examined values of VB and Ra, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

AISI 304 is a highly consumed grade of stainless steel in aerospace components, chemical equipment, nuclear industry, pressure vessels, food processing equipment, paper industry, etc. However, AISI 304 stainless steel is considered as a difficult-to-cut material because of its high strength, rapid work hardening and low heat conductivity. This leads to lesser tool life and poor surface finish. Consequently, the optimization of machining parameters is necessary to minimize tool wear and surface roughness. The results obtained in this research can be used as turning database for the above-mentioned industries for attaining a better machined surface quality and tool performance under environment friendly machining conditions.

Practical implications

Turning of AISI 304 stainless steel under NMQL conditions results in environment friendly machining process by maintaining a dry, healthy, clean and pollution free working area.

Originality/value

Machining of AISI 304 stainless steel under vegetable oil-based NMQL conditions has not been investigated previously.
Telling tales: unlocking the potential of AAC technologies
Authors: Waller Annalu
Published: December 2018

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) has been transformed by the social media revolution made possible by the emergence of mobile technology. The cumbersome dedicated devices of the 1970s have evolved into a burgeoning AAC app industry. However, the limited use and abandonment of AAC technologies remains high. Unlocking the untapped potential of technology requires a paradigm shift in the design of AAC technologies by building systems that minimize the cognitive load placed on users, adapting to their individual physical and language needs. Telling Tales shares insights and stories of how the combination of user‐centred design, interdisciplinary research and the application of intelligent computing is providing a vision of future generations of AAC technologies.
The Longer‐term Impacts of Job Displacement on Labour Market Outcomes in New Zealand
Authors: Hyslop Dean R , Townsend Wilbur
Published: December 2018

This article analyses the longer‐term impacts of job displacements in New Zealand using linked survey and administrative data. The job loss rate is low but has substantial and long‐lasting impacts. Displaced workers have 20−25 per cent lower employment rates than non‐displaced workers in the year following displacement, and still 8−12 per cent lower after five years. Furthermore, their conditional earnings and incomes were about 25 per cent lower in the first year and 15 per cent lower after five years. The impacts were concentrated among older workers, larger for those displaced during the great recession, and only modestly ameliorated by government income support.
‘The past is a promise to the future’: stories, persons, and the devil in Greece
Authors: Tsintjilonis Dimitri
Published: December 2018

Drawing on ethnography from central Greece, this article is about the way people narrate their encounters with the devil. Although it echoes the idea that life as told and life as lived are structured in the same way, it takes the argument a step further by suggesting they are structured through a narrative plot wherein the present and the future of the story‐tellers pre‐date the past of which their stories tell. It also foregrounds the link between this structure and a particular kind of morality which replicates the narrative logic of the stories, giving rise to an inherently relational personhood – a personhood that, just like the way in which its narration destabilizes the logic of before and after, destabilizes the distinction between self and other. Lastly, contextualizing the current economic crisis in the lives of such persons, the article suggests we need to think of it in relation to the devil and the stories people tell of him.
Detecting pioglitazone use and risk of cardiovascular events using electronic health record data in a large cohort of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Miao Shumei , Dong Xiao , Zhang Xin , Jing Shenqi , Zhang Xiaoliang , Xu Tingyu , Wang Li , Du Xianglin , Xu Hua , Liu Yun
Published: December 2018

Background

Pioglitazone may have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease risk among type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients, but evidence from China is lacking. This study investigated the association using electronic health records (EHR) data from a Chinese cohort of T2D patients.

Methods

All T2D patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University who were prescribed at least one oral antidiabetic drug and were aged ≥18 years between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2017 were eligible for inclusion (n = 71 783). Pioglitazone use was determined in 6‐month study intervals, with outcome events of myocardial infarction (MI), ischemic stroke, and heart failure. Poisson regression was used to estimate adjusted rate ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

In multivariable analysis adjusted for potential confounders, pioglitazone use, compared with no use, was associated with a significant 39% decreased risk of MI (RR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.42‐0.90; P = 0.012). Pioglitazone use was also associated with a non‐significant reduction in risk of heart failure or stroke. When MI, heart failure, and stroke were combined as a composite outcome, pioglitazone use was associated with a 30% decrease in risk (RR = 0.70; 95% CI = 0.56‐0.88; P = 0.002).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that applying informatics tools to a large EHR database could be a good way to efficiently conduct clinical observational research. In addition, the findings validated the favorable effect of pioglitazone on the risk of MI among T2D patients in China, with the use of pioglitazone decreasing the risk of MI among those with T2D.
Hypermethylation of Proopiomelanocortin and Period 2 Genes in Blood Are Associated with Greater Subjective and Behavioral Motivation for Alcohol in Humans
Authors: Gangisetty Omkaram , Sinha Rajita , Sarkar Dipak K.
Published: December 2018

Background

Epigenetic modifications of a gene have been shown to play a role in maintaining a long‐lasting change in gene expression. We hypothesize that alcohol's modulating effect on DNA methylation on certain genes in blood is evident in binge and heavy alcohol drinkers and is associated with alcohol motivation.

Methods

Methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were used to measure changes in gene methylation of period 2 (PER2) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in peripheral blood samples collected from nonsmoking moderate, nonbinging, binge, and heavy social drinkers who participated in a 3‐day behavioral alcohol motivation experiment of imagery exposure to either stress, neutral, or alcohol‐related cues, 1 per day, presented on consecutive days in counterbalanced order. Following imagery exposure on each day, subjects were exposed to discrete alcoholic beer cues followed by an alcohol taste test (ATT) to assess behavioral motivation. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to measure gene expression of PER2 and POMC gene levels in blood samples across samples.

Results

In the sample of moderate, binge, and heavy drinkers, we found increased methylation of the PER2 and POMC DNA, reduced expression of these genes in the blood samples of the binge and heavy drinkers relative to the moderate, nonbinge drinkers. Increased PER2 and POMC DNA methylation was also significantly predictive of both increased levels of subjective alcohol craving immediately following imagery (p < 0.0001), and with presentation of the alcohol (2 beers) (p < 0.0001) prior to the ATT, as well as with alcohol amount consumed during the ATT (p < 0.003).

Conclusions

These data establish significant association between binge or heavy levels of alcohol drinking and elevated levels of methylation and reduced levels of expression of POMC and PER2 genes. Furthermore, elevated methylation of POMC and PER2 genes is associated with greater subjective and behavioral motivation for alcohol.
Adherence to treatment in allergic rhinitis using mobile technology. The MASK Study
Authors: Menditto Enrica , Costa Elisio , Midão Luis , Bosnic‐Anticevich Sinthia , Novellino Ettore , Bialek Slawomir , Briedis Vitalis , Mair Alpana , Rajabian‐Soderlund Rojin , Arnavielhe Sylvie , Bedbrook Anna , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Annesi‐Maesano Isabella , Anto Josep M. , Devillier Philippe , De Vries Govert , Keil Thomas , Sheikh Aziz , Orlando Valentina , Larenas‐Linnemann Désirée , Cecchi Lorenzo , De Feo Giulia , Illario M. , Stellato Cristiana , Fonseca Joao , Malva Joao , Morais‐Almeida Mario , Pereira Ana Maria , Todo‐Bom Ana Maria , Kvedariene Violeta , Valiulis Arunas , Bergmann Karl Christian , Klimek Ludger , Mösges Ralph , Pfaar Oliver , Zuberbier Torsten , Cardona Vicky , Mullol Joaquim , Papadopoulos Nikos G. , Prokopakis Emmanuel P. , Bewick Mike , Ryan Dermot , Roller‐Wirnsberger Regina E. , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Cruz Alvaro A. , Kuna Piotr , Samolinski Boleslaw , Fokkens Wytske J. , Reitsma Sietze , Bosse Isabelle , Fontaine Jean‐François , Laune Daniel , Haahtela Tari , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna , Bachert Claus , Hellings Peter W. , Melén Erik , Wickman Magnus , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten , Eller Esben , O'Hehir Robyn E. , Cingi Cemal , Gemicioğlu Bilun , Kalayci Omer , Ivancevich Juan Carlos , Bousquet Jean ,   the MASK group
Published: December 2018

Background

Mobile technology may help to better understand the adherence to treatment. MASK‐rhinitis (Mobile Airways Sentinel NetworK for allergic rhinitis) is a patient‐centred ICT system. A mobile phone app (the Allergy Diary) central to MASK is available in 22 countries.

Objectives

To assess the adherence to treatment in allergic rhinitis patients using the Allergy Diary App.

Methods

An observational cross‐sectional study was carried out on all users who filled in the Allergy Diary from 1 January 2016 to 1 August 2017. Secondary adherence was assessed by using the modified Medication Possession Ratio (MPR) and the Proportion of days covered (PDC) approach.

Results

A total of 12 143 users were registered. A total of 6 949 users reported at least one VAS data recording. Among them, 1 887 users reported ≥7 VAS data. About 1 195 subjects were included in the analysis of adherence. One hundred and thirty‐six (11.28%) users were adherent (MPR ≥70% and PDC ≤1.25), 51 (4.23%) were partly adherent (MPR ≥70% and PDC = 1.50) and 176 (14.60%) were switchers. On the other hand, 832 (69.05%) users were non‐adherent to medications (MPR <70%). Of those, the largest group was non‐adherent to medications and the time interval was increased in 442 (36.68%) users.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Adherence to treatment is low. The relative efficacy of continuous vs on‐demand treatment for allergic rhinitis symptoms is still a matter of debate. This study shows an approach for measuring retrospective adherence based on a mobile app. This also represents a novel approach for analysing medication‐taking behaviour in a real‐world setting.
Decreased biventricular longitudinal strain in patients with systemic sclerosis is mainly caused by pulmonary hypertension and not by systemic sclerosis per se
Authors: Lindholm Anthony , Hesselstrand Roger , Rådegran Göran , Arheden Håkan , Ostenfeld Ellen
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) due to systemic sclerosis (SSc) have high mortality. Left ventricular (LV) peak global longitudinal strain (GLS) is decreased in SSc. It is unknown whether low GLS is due to SSc or PAH. Therefore, our primary aim was to evaluate both LV and right ventricular free wall GLS (RVFW GLS) in SSc, with and without PAH, using cardiac magnetic resonance with feature tracking. Secondary aim was to relate GLS to invasive mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).

Methods

Thirty‐eight patients with SSc, 19 patients with SSc‐PAH and 19 healthy controls for comparison, were included. Endocardial and epicardial borders were delineated in cine images (short‐axis stack and three long‐axis views) for volumetric and strain calculations.

Results

Systemic sclerosis‐PAH had lower LV and RVFW GLS than SSc (LV: P = 0·01, RV: P<0·001) and controls (LV: P = 0·02; RV: P<0·001), with no difference between SSc and controls. LV strain correlated with mPAP (R = 0·42, P = 0·03) and PVR (R = 0·52, P = 0·006). RVFW GLS correlated with mPAP (R = 0·68, P<0·001) and PVR (R = 0·59, P = 0·001). ROC curves for predicting PAH had AUC 0·73 for LV strain (P = 0·003) and 0·86 for RVFW GLS (P<0·001).

Conclusions

Lower GLS is mainly determined by increased pulmonary pressure and not by SSc per se. Low LV and RVFW GLS are indicative of increased mPAP and PVR, which opens for improved non‐invasive methods to select patients eligible for right heart catheterization and to monitor the effects of PAH therapy.
Identification of genomic copy number variations in lung benign metastasizing leiomyomatosis
Authors: Hernández‐Plata Everardo , Velázquez‐Wong Ana Claudia , Jiménez‐Ramírez Carmina , Fernández‐Ramírez Fernando , Galicia‐Sánchez Luz María , Flores‐García César Antonio , Hernández‐Hernández José Manuel , Rosas‐Vargas Haydeé , Huicochea‐Montiel Juan Carlos , Espinosa‐Poblano Eliseo
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Lung metastasizing leiomyomatosis (LML) is an infrequently diagnosed pathology developed after sexual maturation, commonly preceded by uterine myomas. Symptoms can include difficulties to breathe, cough, dyspnea and pain, because of mechanical obstruction exerted by expanding local growing leiomyomas. Lung leiomyomas are normally detected by imaging studies, but nowadays the precise diagnosis demands histological characterization of biopsies obtained from the affected tissues. The purpose of the present study was to determine the presence of genomic alterations in circulating cells of LML.

Methods

Immunohistochemical characterization of a lung biopsy extracted by thoracoscopy was performed. Pathologic proliferative smooth muscle cells were observed in a major lung metastasizing nodule, with a growing pattern similar to a uterine myoma. The presence of cellular linages different to smooth muscle cells was discarded by testing the presence of a battery of molecular markers. Also, a normal karyotype was determine by GTG‐banding cytogenetic study, but a high density microarray analysis revealed six submicroscopic chromosomal regions displaying genomic abnormalities: microduplications were detected on chromosomes 4, 14, 17 and 22; and microdeletions on chromosomes 8 and 10.

Conclusion

This study remarks the relevance of submicroscopic chromosomal analysis of unusual pathologic conditions such as Benign Metastasizing Leiomyomatosis. This propitiate a better understanding of the molecular basis on the development of the pathology, in order to reckon on minimally invasive diagnostic methods, and to design appropriate treatments.
Comparison of two lung cancer screening scores among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A community study
Authors: Gagnat Ane Aamli , Gulsvik Amund , Bakke Per , Gjerdevik Miriam
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Based on the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST), guidelines on screening programs for lung cancer have recommended low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT). De Torres et al made a score for COPD patients (COPD‐LUCSS) to improve their selection criteria.

Objective

To examine and compare the discriminating value of both scores in a community‐based cohort of COPD patients.

Methods

Four hundred and twenty‐two ever‐smokers with COPD from the GenKOLS study in Bergen were merged with the Cancer Registry of Norway. We divided the patients into groups of high and low risk according to the COPD‐LUCSS and the NLST criteria. Cox regression and logistic regression were used to analyse the associations between the scores and lung cancer. We used Harrell's C and area under the curve (AUC) to estimate discriminating values and to compare the models.

Results

Hazard ratio for the high risk vs the low risk in the COPD‐LUCSS was 3.0 (1.4‐6.5 95% CI), P < 0.01. Hazard ratio for the NLST criteria was 2.2 (95% CI 1.1‐4.5), P < 0.05. Harrell's C was 0.63 for the COPD‐LUCSS and 0.59 for the NLST selection criteria. AUC was 0.61 for COPD‐LUCSS and 0.59 for NLST criteria. Comparing tests showed no differences (P = 0.76).

Conclusion

Although the COPD‐LUCSS and the NLST criteria were associated with increased risk of lung cancer, the AUC and Harrell's C values showed that these models have poor discriminating abilities in our cohort of COPD patients. The COPD‐LUCSS was not significantly better than the NLST criteria.
Prevalence, determinants, and correlates of coagulation necrosis and contraction band necrosis in donor hearts
Authors: Guglin Maya , Omar Hesham R. , Ray Gregory , Wright Charles
Published: December 2018

Background

Exploration of pathologic changes in donor hearts and finding the association of pathologic findings with potentially reversible cardiac condition may result in allowing such hearts to recover and be used for transplantation.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive donors from one federally designated Organ Procurement Organization for one calendar year. Hearts rejected for transplantation underwent pathological examination. We studied the association of pathologic findings with the mechanism of death.

Results

A total of 81 hearts were rejected for transplantation. The most common pathologic findings were coagulation necrosis (CN) in 17.3% and contraction band necrosis (CBN) in 34.6%. Anoxic brain injury was present in 78.6% of the donors who had CN, and only in 29.9% of those without CN (P = 0.002). CBN was more commonly associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage (17.9% vs 1.9% of donors with and without CBN, P = 0.017). Only hearts with CBN had significantly lower LVEF (P = 0.017).

Conclusion

Coagulation necrosis and CBN are the most common pathologic findings in the hearts rejected for transplantation. While CN is more prevalent in anoxic brain injury, CBN is more often present in subarachnoid hemorrhage. This may be clinically important because CBN is a pathologic hallmark of catecholamine‐induced cardiomyopathy which is potentially reversible.
Uncontrolled deceased cardiac donation: An unutilized source for organ transplantation in the United States
Authors: Choudhury Rashikh A. , Prins Kas , Moore Hunter B. , Yoeli Dor , Kam Adi , Nydam Trevor L.
Published: December 2018

The practice of uncontrolled donation after cardiac death (uDCD) has been met with tepid interest within the United States transplant community. Hesitancy stems largely from fears of eroding public trust due to complex ethical issues involving consent. Beyond ethical concerns, uDCD creates unique logistic challenges to obtain and to preserve organs within a short time frame. This mandates that organ recovery centers be able to rapidly mobilize, and that traditional cold preservation techniques may be inadequate. Proof of effective uDCD organ recovery comes from several European nations, and the frequency of its use is increasing due to early promising results. These scarce resources provide life‐saving organs to desperate transplant candidates who otherwise experience high morbidity and mortality on a transplant waitlist. The objective of this review will be to provide an overview of the European experience with uDCD and discuss the unique ethical and logistic challenges associated with its implementation in the United States. Given existing models for it successful use, uDCD remains a poorly utilized source of donors in the United States at this time.
PF‐04447943, a Phosphodiesterase 9A Inhibitor, in Stable Sickle Cell Disease Patients: A Phase Ib Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Study
Authors: Charnigo Robert J. , Beidler David , Rybin Denis , Pittman Debra D. , Tan Beesan , Howard Jo , Michelson Alan D. , Frelinger Andrew L. , Clarke Nicholas
Published: December 2018

This phase Ib study randomized patients with stable sickle cell disease (SCD) aged 18–65 years to twice‐daily PF‐04447943 (a phosphodiesterase 9A inhibitor; 5 or 25 mg) or placebo, with/without hydroxyurea coadministration, for up to 29 days. Blood samples were collected at baseline and various posttreatment time points for assessments of PF‐04447943 pharmacokinetics (PKs)/pharmacodynamics (PDs). Change from baseline in potential SCD‐related biomarkers was evaluated. Of 30 patients, 15 received hydroxyurea and 28 completed the study. PF‐04447943, with/without hydroxyurea, was generally well tolerated, with no treatment‐related serious adverse events. Plasma PF‐04447943 exposure was dose proportional. Twice‐daily PF‐04447943 25 mg significantly reduced the number and size of circulating monocyte‐platelet and neutrophil‐platelet aggregates and levels of circulating soluble E‐selectin at day 29 vs. baseline (adjusted P < 0.15). PF‐04447943 demonstrated PK/PD effects suggestive of inhibiting pathways that may contribute to vaso‐occlusion. This study also provides guidance regarding biomarkers for future SCD studies.
Relation between rotation of MreB actin and cell width of Escherichia coli
Authors: Kurita Keisuke , Shin Ryota , Tabei Tsutomu , Shiomi Daisuke
Published: December 2018

Bacterial cells, including Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, continuously elongate and divide. Although the cell width is maintained during cell cycle, the molecular mechanisms involved in its regulation remain unknown. MreB has been implicated to play a role in maintaining cell width. Several point mutations in mreB that affect cell width have been identified. The MreB protein forms clusters or polymers in the cell and moves along annular tracks perpendicular to the long axis. This rotation is coupled with peptidoglycan synthesis. Here, we focused on two MreB mutants, MreBA125V and MreBA174T. Cells producing MreBA125V and MreBA174T were thinner and thicker than WT cells, and MreBA125V and MreBA174T rotated faster and slower than WT MreB, respectively. We observed that the rotation rate correlated with the cell wall synthesis rate. Thus, we conclude that the velocity of MreB rotation also affects cell width, that is, the faster the MreB rotates, the thinner the cell width is.
Utility of CD123 immunohistochemistry in differentiating lupus erythematosus from cutaneous T cell lymphoma
Authors: Chen Stephanie J T , Tse Julie Y , Harms Paul W , Hristov Alexandra C , Chan May P
Published: December 2018

Aims

Histopathological overlap between lupus erythematosus and certain types of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) is well documented. CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are typically increased in lupus erythematosus, but have not been well studied in CTCL. We aimed to compare CD123 immunostaining and histopathological features in these conditions.

Methods and results

Skin biopsies of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE, n = 18), lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP, n = 17), mycosis fungoides (MF, n = 25) and subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T cell lymphoma (SPTCL, n = 9) were retrospectively reviewed and immunostained with CD123. Percentage, distribution and clustering of CD123+ cells were compared between CLE and MF and between LEP and SPTCL using χ2 and two‐tailed t‐tests. A higher percentage of CD123+ cells was observed in CLE than MF (P < 0.01), more frequently comprising ≥20% of the entire infiltrate (P < 0.01) and forming clusters (P < 0.01). Similarly, LEP showed a higher percentage of CD123+ cells than SPTCL (P = 0.01), more frequently comprising ≥20% of the infiltrate (P = 0.04) and forming clusters (P = 0.01). Basal vacuolar change or dyskeratosis was observed in all CLE cases and in 48% cases of MF cases (P = 0.05). Plasma cells were readily identified in 76% cases of LEP but in none of the SPTCL cases (P = 0.01). Adipocyte rimming by lymphocytes, hyaline fat necrosis and fibrinoid/grungy necrosis did not significantly differ between LEP and SPTCL. Dermal mucin also failed to distinguish between groups.

Conclusions

CD123 immunostaining is helpful in differentiating CLE from MF and LEP from SPTCL, but should be interpreted in conjunction with clinicopathological features and other ancillary studies to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Suppression of crystallization in ZBLAN glass by rapid heating and cooling processing
Authors: Ong Teng‐Cheong , Fogarty Ben , Steinberg Ted , Jaatinen Esa , Bell John
Published: December 2018

ZBLAN glass is a heavy metal fluoride glass that tends to undergo heavy devitrification, resulting in a crystalline material. It has many applications, including its use as an optical waveguide for fiber‐optic technology. However, when the glass is processed with traditional casting techniques, crystallites form readily that act as scattering centers, which results in large attenuation losses. In this study, it has been experimentally demonstrated that processing ZBLAN rapidly with a heating rate of 25 000 K/min and cooling rate of 4000 K/min yields test samples that are fully amorphous and retain a disordered molecular arrangement characteristic of its molten state. This novel method was developed using a specifically designed equipment named a Rapid Electro‐thermal Processing Device, or “REPD.” The REPD applies ohmic heating and thermal conduction to a heat sink to rapidly process the ZBLAN material. The absence of crystallites in the rapidly processed ZBLAN test samples were verified using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Applying a theoretical algorithm, the critical cooling rate for yielding fully amorphous ZBLAN glass was determined to be 1081 K/min for a sample volume of 9.4 × 10−8 m3.
Low‐temperature ultrasound‐activated joining of ZrO2 ceramics using Sn–Al–Cu solder
Authors: Dong Hongjie , Li Zhuolin , Song Xiaoguo , Guo Xiajun , Luo Yanxu , Bai Tiansheng , Wei Shoujing , Zhao Hongyun , Yan Jiuchun , Feng Jicai
Published: December 2018

In this study, the low‐temperature ultrasound‐activated joining of ZrO2 ceramics using Sn–4Al–0.7Cu solder was achieved at 350°C. It was found that a nanoscale amorphous Al2O3 layer formed at the solder‐ceramic interface during the ultrasonic soldering process. The occurrence of the interfacial oxidation of aluminum could be attributed to the sonochemical effects of acoustic cavitation and turbulent streaming induced by the propagation of ultrasonic waves in the liquid solder. The formed butt joints exhibited an average tensile strength of 47.3 MPa.
Estimation of Sc3+ solubility in dodecahedral and octahedral sites in YSAG:Yb
Authors: Tarala Vitaly A. , Shama Marina S. , Chikulina Irina S. , Kuznetsov Sergey V. , Malyavin Fedor F. , Vakalov Dmitry S. , Kravtsov Alexander A. , Pankov Mikhail A.
Published: December 2018

A method for synthesizing YSAG:Yb optical ceramics has been developed. Additionally, the phase composition and unit cell parameters for YSAG, YbSAG, and their solid solutions have been determined. The limits of scandium solubility in the dodecahedral and octahedral sites of garnet crystal lattice have been estimated after annealing at 1600°C. The scandium solubility limit in the dodecahedral sites of YSAG:Yb was found to be 66 ± 2 at.%. The limit of scandium solubility in octahedral sites depended upon the type of garnet‐forming cations. The solubility limit for Sc3+ decreased from 97.5 ± 0.5 to 68.5 ± 1 at.% with simultaneous increase of ytterbium content in the YSAG‐YbSAG system. Therefore, the region of solid solutions existing with a garnet structure in the Al2O3–Sc2O3–Yb2O3–Y2O3 system was determined. Samples having scandium in both dodecahedral and octahedral sites, which had a Sc3+ content of ~30 at.%, were synthesized as a precursor for optical ceramic production.
Nocturnal pulse rate correlated with ambulatory blood pressure and target organ damage in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wen Ruowei , Yin Jinmei , Zhu Ye , Lin Lin , Ye Zengchun , Peng Hui , Wang Cheng , Lou Tanqi
Published: December 2018

The relationship between resting pulse rate (PR) and the occurrence of hypertension and cardiovascular (CV) mortality has been described in the general population. Few studies have examined the relationship between ambulatory PR, ambulatory blood pressure (BP), and target organ damage (TOD) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A total of 1509 patients with CKD were recruited in our hospital. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) over a 24‐hours period was performed and referenced with clinical data in this cross‐sectional study. TOD was measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between PR, BP, and TOD. The percentage of male patients was 58.3% with a mean age of 44.6 ± 16.2 years. Nocturnal PR rather than 24‐hours PR or daytime PR was an independent risk factor for clinical hypertension, 24‐hours hypertension, BP dipper state, poor renal function, and LVH. In addition, the authors found that nighttime PR >74 beats/min (bpm) group was independently associated with clinical hypertension, 24‐hours hypertension, day and night hypertension, nondipping BP, lower eGFR, and LVH when compared with nighttime PR <64 bpm group. Furthermore, 1:1 propensity score matching between PR ≤74 bpm group and PR >74 bpm group was performed. Multivariate analyses indicated nighttime PR >74 bpm remained independently associated with clinical hypertension, daytime and nighttime hypertension, and LVH. An increased nocturnal PR is associated with TOD, higher BP, and nondipping BP in patients with CKD.
Seasonal pattern in population dynamics and host plant use of non‐swarming Ruspolia differens Serville (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
Authors: Opoke Robert , Malinga Geoffrey M. , Rutaro Karlmax , Nyeko Philip , Roininen Heikki , Valtonen Anu
Published: December 2018

The edible Ruspolia differens (Serville) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) is an important source of food in East Africa, but the seasonality of its population dynamics and host plant use are not fully understood. We studied seasonal patterns in the population density and relative frequency of developmental stages, sexes, colour morphs and host plants of the non‐swarming R. differens at two study sites in central Uganda over 15 months. Linear mixed models were used to study how precipitation and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) predict population density and relative frequency of developmental stages, sexes, colour morphs and host plants. The results showed that all developmental stages of non‐swarming R. differens were found in the field throughout the year. The population densities of R. differens were high in wet seasons and low in dry seasons and were best predicted by the EVI of the previous month. The sex ratio of the non‐swarming R. differens populations was female biased. The proportion of males and green colour morphs increased during and after the rainy season. The use of host plants fluctuated seasonally so that during the greener seasons individuals used the more preferred host Panicum maximum more frequently. Overall, our work indicates that R. differens has a seasonal dynamic so that vegetation greenness can be used to forecast non‐swarming R. differens population densities. Our results also suggest that source populations for swarming individuals might have a local origin. This is important for the management of habitats for reproduction and conservation of viable populations of R. differens in East Africa.
Assessing the performance of pea and lentil at different seeding densities as trap crops for the management of wireworms in spring wheat
Authors: Sharma Anamika , Sandhi Ramandeep K. , Briar Shabeg S. , Miller John H. , Reddy Gadi V. P.
Published: December 2018

Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles (Elateridae), are difficult to manage due to their habitats and behaviour. Wireworms pose a major threat to the wheat crop in the north‐western USA. Seed treatment with neonicotinoids, biological control management and some cultural controls are recommended to manage these pests. Trap cropping is an emerging way to manage wireworms. In strawberry and potato crops, trap cropping has been found effective at attracting wireworms away from the principal crop. An earlier study in the Golden Triangle area of Montana found that pea and lentil could be effective trap crops for managing wireworms in spring wheat. In the present study, experiments were conducted at two locations. The effectiveness of peas and lentils as trap crops with wheat at different seeding densities was assessed [pea at 0, 4, 8, 16 seeds/sq.ft. or 0, 43, 86, 172 seeds/sq.m.; lentil at 0, 6, 12, 18 OR 0, 65, 130, 194 seeds/sq.m.; both with wheat at 0, 11, 22, or 28 seeds/sq.ft. or 0, 120, 230, 300 seeds/sq.m.] in a randomized design where all three crops were intercropped. Both trap crops were found to be effective in protecting wheat at standard seeding rates of 8 seeds/sq.ft. for pea and 12 seeds/sq.ft. for lentils. At these seeding rates, higher numbers of wireworms were found to be attracted to the trap crop, resulting in higher yield (7%–10%) of the associated spring wheat plant stands at 22 seeds/sq.ft. To develop an effective trap crop strategy, the pea–wheat and lentil–wheat spatial patterns that are possible need to be assessed in further field trials. Proper design and evaluation of the cost–benefit ratio of pea and lentil as trap crops are likely to produce good results for wheat crops in Montana.
Flood hazard mitigation in land subsidence prone coastal areas by optimal groundwater pumping
Authors: Chang Yin‐Lung , Tsai Tung‐Lin , Yang Jinn‐Chuang
Published: December 2018

Continuing land subsidence can aggravate flood hazard and diminish the effectiveness of existing flood mitigation systems. This paper presents a study of groundwater‐ pumping management for mitigating flood hazard in a subsidence infested area in the southwest coast of Taiwan. An optimal groundwater‐pumping model is developed for preventing flood hazard from worsening and for satisfying the groundwater demand. In an area where the land is susceptible to pumping‐induced subsidence, the study shows that proper long‐term pumping strategy to manage spatial–temporal variation of future land subsidence should be an integral part of flood risk management as it can sustain the effectiveness of the flood mitigation measures.
Flood hazard assessment of the Kashmir Valley using historical hydrology
Authors: Bhat M. Sultan , Ahmad Bashir , Alam Akhtar , Farooq Hakim , Ahmad Shabir
Published: December 2018

Studies aimed at reconstructing the chronology of historical floods in a region assume an important role in flood hazard assessment, especially for flood prone regions like the Kashmir Valley. This is usually done through the review of historical documents and/or palaeohydrological studies; the latter allows access far beyond historical records. While as, archival scribes offer particularly valuable insights into attributes of hydrological extremes in the recent past. The Kashmir Valley has contours of its own in the field of historical hydrology, hitherto scattered across multiple textual scribes, making them obscure. Nevertheless, information collated and analysed made these contours visible in a specific way. The critical evaluation of historical flood records revealed that the Kashmir Valley was beleaguered with a series of catastrophic inundations. In addition, calibration of historical records against instrumental data spanning for ~1400 years were linked to quantifiable attributes to simulate their discharge, water surface elevation, and spatial extent using the Hydrologic Engineering Center's (HEC) River Analysis System (RAS) program. The deliverables of this study are expected to be valuable for flood hazard mitigation in the Kashmir Valley and for further research in this direction.
Preliminary report on the study of postharvest fruit rot bacteria and yeasts in Lanzhou Lily (Lilium davidii var. unicolor) in China
Authors: Ling Lijun , Jiao Zhenglong , Ma Wenxia , Zhao Jin , Feng Juanjuan , Zhang Xi , Li Zibin , Zhang Ji , Lu Lu
Published: December 2018

Fruit rot is one of the most important factors affecting the postharvest quality and shelf life of Lanzhou Lily fruits. The aims of this study were to characterize different isolates from Lanzhou Lily using morphological and molecular approaches and to test their pathogenicity in Lanzhou Lily fruit. Different isolates were collected from decayed Lanzhou Lily fruits in Lanzhou in Gansu Province in China during 2016 and 2017. In total, four isolates were obtained and identified based on their DNA sequences of the 16S rDNA and 26S rDNA genes in combination with the morphological characteristics of the cultures and sporulation. Of the four isolates, one was identified as Bacillus safensis, one was Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and the other two isolates were Metschnikowia pulcherrima. The pathogenicity tests showed that all four isolates were pathogenic in Lanzhou Lily fruit. Previously Fusarium tricinctum has been reported to be the primary cause of fruit rot in Lanzhou Lily throughout the world. Our report is the first to show results that indicate that B. safensis, S. maltophilia and M. pulcherrima are pathogenic in Lanzhou Lily in China. This is the first report on the bacteria and yeast that infect Lanzhou Lily fruits.
Characterization of inflammatory response in hepatorenal syndrome: Relationship with kidney outcome and survival
Authors: Solé Cristina , Solà Elsa , Huelin Patricia , Carol Marta , Moreira Rebeca , Cereijo Unai , Mas José‐Manuel , Graupera Isabel , Pose Elisa , Napoleone Laura , dePrada Gloria , Juanola Adrià , Fabrellas Núria , Torres Ferran , Morales‐Ruiz Manuel , Farrés Judith , Jiménez Wladimiro , Ginès Pere
Published: December 2018

Background

Several lines of evidence indicate that decompensated cirrhosis is characterized by the presence of systemic inflammation. Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS‐AKI) is a unique type of renal failure that occurs at late stages of cirrhosis. However, confirmation of the presence and significance of such inflammatory response in HRS‐AKI is lacking.

Aim and Methods

To characterize the systemic inflammatory response, as estimated by measuring a large number of cytokines, in 161 patients hospitalized for an acute decompensation of cirrhosis: 44 patients without acute kidney injury (AKI), 63 patients with hypovolaemia‐induced AKI and 58 patients with HRS‐AKI.

Results

HRS‐AKI was characterized by an altered cytokine profile compared to the other two groups, particularly IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, VCAM‐1, fractalkine and MIP‐1α. The inflammatory response was not related to presence of bacterial infection, concomitant acute‐on‐chronic liver failure or severity of renal dysfunction. Patients who responded to terlipressin and albumin had only a decrease in TNF‐α and RANTES after treatment without changes in other cytokines. Interestingly, patients with persistent HRS‐AKI had higher levels of IP‐10 and VCAM‐1 compared to those with resolution of HRS‐AKI. VCAM‐1 was also an independent predictor of 3‐month mortality. A systems biology analysis approach showed that the inflammatory status of HRS‐AKI was similar to that of chronic nonhepatic inflammatory conditions, such as lupus erythematosus or inflammatory bowel disease.

Conclusion

Hepatorenal syndrome is characterized by a marked systemic inflammatory state, reminiscent of that of nonhepatic inflammatory diseases, that correlates with patient outcomes.
Prevalence and outcomes of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among Asian American adults in the United States
Authors: Golabi Pegah , Paik James , Hwang Jessica P. , Wang Su , Lee Hannah M. , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: December 2018

Background & Aims

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects about 25% of the general population worldwide. Although epidemiology of NAFLD is well studied in the United States, there is paucity of data for the Asian Americans. Our aim was to assess the prevalence and risk factors for NAFLD among Asian Americans.

Methods

We utilized NHANES data for 2011‐2016. We defined NAFLD using recently derived US‐FLI. Relative risks (RRs) and population attributable fractions (PAFs) of metabolic components on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and advanced fibrosis were calculated for Asian Americans, and these rates were compared to non‐Hispanic whites.

Results

NAFLD prevalence was 18.3% among Asian Americans and 28.4% among non‐Hispanic whites. Asian Americans with NAFLD had lower BMI and waist circumference than non‐Hispanic whites with NAFLD and were less likely to have metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer and incident ASCVD (P < 0.05). Hyperlipidaemia had the highest attributable fraction (76.6%) for risk of ASCVD among Asian Americans with NAFLD, followed by diabetes (24.0%), current smoking (9.2%), and obesity (3.7%). Advanced fibrosis in Asian American with NAFLD was independently associated with presence of type 2 diabetes (RR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.00‐7.27).

Conclusions

Asian Americans have lower prevalence of NAFLD than non‐Hispanic whites. However, Asian Americans with NAFLD have similar risk factors for advanced fibrosis and ASCVD than non‐Hispanic Whites.
Acclimation and adaptation components of the temperature dependence of plant photosynthesis at the global scale
Authors: Kumarathunge Dushan P. , Medlyn Belinda E. , Drake John E. , Tjoelker Mark G. , Aspinwall Michael J. , Battaglia Michael , Cano Francisco J. , Carter Kelsey R. , Cavaleri Molly A. , Cernusak Lucas A. , Chambers Jeffrey Q. , Crous Kristine Y. , De Kauwe Martin G. , Dillaway Dylan N. , Dreyer Erwin , Ellsworth David S. , Ghannoum Oula , Han Qingmin , Hikosaka Kouki , Jensen Anna M. , Kelly Jeff W. G. , Kruger Eric L. , Mercado Lina M. , Onoda Yusuke , Reich Peter B. , Rogers Alistair , Slot Martijn , Smith Nicholas G. , Tarvainen Lasse , Tissue David T. , Togashi Henrique F. , Tribuzy Edgard S. , Uddling Johan , Vårhammar Angelica , Wallin Göran , Warren Jeffrey M. , Way Danielle A.
Published: December 2018

The temperature response of photosynthesis is one of the key factors determining predicted responses to warming in global vegetation models (GVMs). The response may vary geographically, owing to genetic adaptation to climate, and temporally, as a result of acclimation to changes in ambient temperature. Our goal was to develop a robust quantitative global model representing acclimation and adaptation of photosynthetic temperature responses.

We quantified and modelled key mechanisms responsible for photosynthetic temperature acclimation and adaptation using a global dataset of photosynthetic CO2 response curves, including data from 141 C3 species from tropical rainforest to Arctic tundra. We separated temperature acclimation and adaptation processes by considering seasonal and common‐garden datasets, respectively.

The observed global variation in the temperature optimum of photosynthesis was primarily explained by biochemical limitations to photosynthesis, rather than stomatal conductance or respiration. We found acclimation to growth temperature to be a stronger driver of this variation than adaptation to temperature at climate of origin.

We developed a summary model to represent photosynthetic temperature responses and showed that it predicted the observed global variation in optimal temperatures with high accuracy. This novel algorithm should enable improved prediction of the function of global ecosystems in a warming climate.
Reconceptualizing layering—From mode of institutional change to mode of institutional design: Types and outputs
Authors: Capano Giliberto
Published: December 2018

Due to its popularity, the term layering is often used generically, and it risks being transformed into a catch‐all concept. Layering has become synonymous with incremental change, thus making it a synonym for change without any specification in terms of the change and its effects. To make the term more conceptually coherent and empirically useful, this article problematizes the historical neo‐institutionalist definition of layering as a mode of change and, above all, its use in the literature. It argues that layering should be conceptualized in terms of modes of institutional design through which different types of additions to the actual institutional arrangement can be activated to pursue not only institutional and eventually policy change but also stability. As an approach to institutional design, layering can be distinguished according to that which is layered and the results that layering can achieve in terms of institutional and policy effects.