bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On α-nilpotent elements and α-Armendariz rings
Authors: Kim Hong Kee , Kim Nam Kyun , Kwak Tai Keun , Lee Yang , Marubayashi Hidetoshi
Published: August 2014

Antoine studied the structure of the set of nilpotent elements in Armendariz rings and introduced the concept of nil-Armendariz property as a generalization. Hong et al. studied Armendariz property on skew polynomial rings and introduced the notion of an α-Armendariz ring, where α is a ring monomorphism. In this paper, we investigate the structure of the set of α-nilpotent elements in α-Armendariz rings and introduce an α-nil-Armendariz ring. We examine the set of [Formula: see text]-nilpotent elements in a skew polynomial ring R[x;α], where [Formula: see text] is the monomorphism induced by the monomorphism α of an α-Armendariz ring R. We prove that every polynomial with α-nilpotent coefficients in a ring R is [Formula: see text]-nilpotent when R is of bounded index of α-nilpotency, and moreover, R is shown to be α-nil-Armendariz in this situation. We also characterize the structure of the set of α-nilpotent elements in α-nil-Armendariz rings, and investigate the relations between α-(nil-)Armendariz property and other standard ring theoretic properties.
Hom-ideal structure of monoidal Hom-algebras in a category
Authors: Dong Lihong , Wang Shengxiang
Published: August 2014

In this paper, firstly we study the central invariant ZH(L)0 of generalized Hom-Lie algebras L, which are monoidal Hom-Lie algebras in the category [Formula: see text] of H-modules for a triangular Hopf algebra (H, R). If V is an H-Hom-Lie ideal of [L, L], under certain conditions we obtain V0 ⊆ ZH(L)0, where V0 is the monoidal Hom-subalgebra of H-invariant of V. Secondly, we describe the H-Hom-Lie ideal structure of monoidal Hom-algebras in a module category.
Modules over strongly prime rings
Authors: Tuganbaev A. A.
Published: August 2014

Let A be a right strongly prime ring and let M be a right A-module which is not singular. We obtain criteria of the property that M is an injective module or a CS module.
Varieties of complexes of fixed rank
Authors: Darmajid  , Jensen Bernt Tore
Published: August 2014

We study varieties of complexes of projective modules with fixed ranks, and relate these varieties to the varieties of their homologies. We show that for an algebra of global dimension at most two, these two varieties are related by a pair of morphisms which are smooth with irreducible fibers.
OPTIMIZATION OF THE RESERVE-TYPE DISTRIBUTOR FOR R410A AIR CONDITIONER
Authors: ZHANG CHI , WANG YING , CHEN JIANGPING
Published: August 2014

Mal-distribution of refrigerant in a cross-flow type evaporator with parallel paths is very important, which can lead to a loss of heat exchanger capacity to 25%. Distributors are used to balance the two-phase refrigerant distributions in each path. Apart from the structural factors, there are other factors influencing the performance of distributor greatly. In this paper, influences of several nonstructural factors on reservoir distributor are investigated experimentally under varied working conditions. The inlet tube configuration, installation orientation and capillary tube length are also studied. One experiment apparatus is developed to measure the refrigerant mass flow rate and the quality based on R410A air conditioner. It is found that influence caused by inlet tube before the distributor is small. The average STD is only 2.76%. Influence caused by orientation is broad. The average STD is less than 9% on the orientation of 15°. On the orientation of 90°, STDs of different conditions are all more than 40%. For orientation, mass flow rate sensitivity is larger than quality sensitivity. Capillary tubes with different length can be used to adjust distribution. Average STD with sizable capillary length difference is 9.47%. It means that only small mal-distribution can be adjusted by using different-length capillary tubes. Capillary tube length sensitivity increases with the increase of difference between outlet tubes or the decrease of average length of outlet tubes.
Wondering About Things
Authors: Field George B.
Published: August 2014

Here you will find facts about and the opinions of an American astrophysicist who practiced in the second half of the twentieth century. The title explains why I did it. I invented some new ideas, I applied them to some astro objects, I computed things with pen and paper; I ended up thinking that I had succeeded in pushing the field ahead a bit.

Attracted by Newtonian theory, I did some experiments too. I love hydrodynamics and magnetic fields in space. The math is beautiful, and the objects are stupendous in their brilliant displays. For some reason I meditated on gases between the stars, their pressures and motions. I left the stars to others, believing that their physics was under control.

As I grew older, I had to decide whether to direct others rather than just myself and ended up at the Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics doing both. It was thrilling because I had never had management experience and was flying by the seat of my pants, as I guess other astrodirectors do. In the process, I advised the US government on future directions in astronomy, chairing a number of committees. It is astonishing that the government is interested in astronomy, and it is exciting to interact with the people in the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the Congress, and the Executive branch who have dedicated their lives to enable the expansion of our knowledge of astronomy.

Along the way I studied more abstract concepts in physics, including magnetic helicity and its relation to the winding numbers of nonabelian particle physics. These are topological concepts that I should have learned in grad school but did not.

This review has two parts. The first part is for scientists, and covers my life in chronological order. The second part is for laymen who are interested in science. It gives a flavor of my scientific work with no math and a minimum of jargon.
Super-Hamiltonian Structures and Conservation Laws of a New Six-Component Super-Ablowitz-Kaup-Newell-Segur Hierarchy
Authors: You Fucai , Zhang Jiao , Zhao Yan
Published: August 2014

A six-component super-Ablowitz-Kaup-Newell-Segur (-AKNS) hierarchy is proposed by the zero curvature equation associated with Lie superalgebras. Supertrace identity is used to furnish the super-Hamiltonian structures for the resulting nonlinear superintegrable hierarchy. Furthermore, we derive the infinite conservation laws of the first two nonlinear super-AKNS equations in the hierarchy by utilizing spectral parameter expansions. PACS: 02.30.Ik; 02.30.Jr; 02.20.Sv.
Vibroacoustic Modeling and Path Control of Air-Borne Axle Whine Noise
Authors: Guo Dong , Sun Guohua
Published: August 2014

The axle whine noise will eventually affect the vehicle noise performance. In this study, a systematic modeling approach is developed to analyze the axle whine problem by considering the hypoid gear mesh from the tooth contact process as well as the system dynamics effect with gear design parameters and shaft-bearing-housing system taken into account. Moreover, the tuning of the dominant air-borne path is modeled analytically by using the sound transmission loss idea. First, gear tooth load distribution results are obtained in a 3-dimensional loaded tooth contact analysis program. Then mesh parameters are synthesized and applied to a linear multibody gear dynamic model to obtain dynamic mesh and bearing responses. The bearing responses are used as the excitation force to a housing finite element model. Finally, the vibroacoustic analysis of the axle is performed using the boundary element method; sound pressure responses in the axle surface are then simulated. Transmission losses of different panel partitions are included in the final stage to guide the tuning of air-borne paths to reduce the radiated axle whine noise. The proposed approach gives a more in-depth understanding of the axle whine generation and therefore can further facilitate the system design and trouble-shooting.
Forward and Reverse Movements of a Linear Positioning Stage Based on the Parasitic Motion Principle
Authors: Huang Hu , Zhao Hongwei
Published: August 2014

A compact linear positioning stage using one microgripper and one piezoelectric stack is presented based on the parasitic motion principle. Characteristics of the linear positioning stage along the positive y-axis and the negative y-axis are measured and compared with each other. Experimental results indicate that the linear positioning stage has features of the large motion range, various movement velocities and stepping displacement, and forward and reverse movements. Meanwhile, the positioning stage has good resolution and enough load capacity. Possible reasons leading to nonlinearity and velocity difference between forward and reverse movements are discussed. Research results in this paper will make applications of the parasitic motion principle more flexible.
Subjects with Impaired Fasting Glucose: Evolution in a Period of 6 Years
Authors: Leiva E. , Mujica V. , Orrego R. , Wehinger S. , Soto A. , Icaza G. , Vásquez M. , Díaz L. , Andrews M. , Arredondo M.
Published: August 2014

Aim. To study the evolution of impaired fasting glucose (IFG), considering glucose and HbA1c levels and risk factors associated, in a period of 6 years.Methods. We studied 94 subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) that were diagnosed in 2005 and followed up to 2012. Glucose and HbA1c levels were determined. A descriptive analysis of contingence charts was performed in order to study the evolution in the development of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Results. Twenty-eight of ninety-four subjects became T2DM; 51/94 remained with IFG; and 20/94 presented normal fasting glucose. From the 28 diabetic subjects, 9 had already developed diabetes and were under treatment with oral hypoglycemic agents; 5 were diagnosed with plasma glucose < 126 mg/dL, but with HbA1c over 6.5%. In those who developed diabetes, 15/28 had a family history of T2DM in first relative degree. Also, diabetic subjects had a BMI significantly higher than nodiabetics (ttest:P< 0.01). The individuals that in 2005 had the highest BMI are those who currently have diabetes.Conclusion. The IFG constitutes a condition of high risk of developing T2DM in a few years, especially over 110 mg/dL and in obesity patients.
Enteric Duplication Cyst Containing Squamous and Respiratory Epithelium: An Interesting Case of a Typically Pediatric Entity Presenting in an Adult Patient
Authors: Baumann Jessica Leigh , Patel Charmi
Published: August 2014

Enteric duplication cysts are rare congenital malformations that can occur at any point along the digestive tract, most commonly the small bowel. They are characterized by the presence of an outer layer of smooth muscle and an inner lining of mucosa that may resemble any portion of the digestive tract. Less commonly, cases have been reported that also contain mucosal components of nonintestinal origin. This entity is typically diagnosed in young children, but occasionally presents in adolescence and young adulthood. We present a rare case of a 21-year-old male who presented with nonspecific symptoms of abdominal discomfort and weight loss and was later found to have a 9 cm nonenhancing mass in the distal ileum on CT imaging. Laparoscopic dissection of the mass revealed a cystic lesion lined mainly by pseudostratified ciliated columnar respiratory-type epithelium, with patchy areas of squamous epithelium as well as villous columnar epithelium resembling small bowel. The unique histology and advanced patient age make this case a unique presentation of what is already a rare pathological entity.
Towards the Smart Grid: Substation Automation Architecture and Technologies
Authors: Leonardi A. , Mathioudakis K. , Wiesmaier A. , Zeiger F.
Published: August 2014

This paper deals with Industrial Control Systems (ICS) of the electrical sector and especially on the Smart Grid. This sector has been particularly active at establishing new standards to improve interoperability between all sector players, driven by the liberalization of the market and the introduction of distributed generation of energy. The paper provides a state-of-the-art analysis on architectures, technologies, communication protocols, applications, and information standards mainly focusing on substation automation in the transmission and distribution domain. The analysis shows that there is tremendous effort from the Smart Grid key stakeholders to improve interoperability across the different components managing an electrical grid, from field processes to market exchanges, allowing the information flowing more and more freely across applications and domains and creating opportunity for new applications that are not any more constraint to a single domain.
The Cost of Managing Forest Carbon under REDD+ Initiatives: A Case of Kolo Hills Forests in Kondoa District, Dodoma, Tanzania
Authors: John Kabura , Silayo Dos Santos A. , Vatn Arild
Published: August 2014

Countries considering participating in a REDD+ mechanism need information on what it would cost them to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. This study was conducted to estimate the cost of managing forest carbon under REDD+ initiatives in Kolo Hills Forest, Kondoa, Tanzania. Socioeconomic and biophysical information was collected through structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and forest inventory, respectively. Results show that the community participated in managing the forest by undertaking a range of activities such as tree planting, patrolling, and fire protection. The estimated total cost was USD 418,349.38 while the average cost was USD 79.06/ha. The average carbon stored was 19.75 tC ha−1, which is equivalent to 72.48 tCO2 ha−1. Costs incurred by managing the forest in relation to tCO2stored were USD 1.0485 tCO2 e−1ha−1. The project was found to be economically feasible at 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% discount rates with NPVs of USD 107,102,331.83, USD 33,986,255.86, USD 10,312,945, and USD 1,245,905.11, respectively. The internal rate of return was 21.21% which is much higher than the World Bank rate of 15.8% and the Tanzania rate of 14.8%. We therefore conclude that the decision to undertake this REDD+ project was worthwhile and should be favoured against the “do nothing” alternative.
Heterogeneous Fundamentalists in a Continuous Time Model with Delays
Authors: Gori Luca , Guerrini Luca , Sodini Mauro
Published: August 2014

We develop a continuous time model with heterogeneous fundamentalists, imitators, and discrete time delays. We show that nonlinear dynamic phenomena, such as coexistence of attractors and local and global bifurcations, occur due to the existence of a time gap in the process of adjustment of market prices.
Novel Paracrine Modulation of Notch–DLL4 Signaling by Fibulin-3 Promotes Angiogenesis in High-Grade Gliomas
Authors: Nandhu Mohan S. , Hu Bin , Cole Susan E. , Erdreich-Epstein Anat , Rodriguez-Gil Diego J. , Viapiano Mariano S.
Published: August 2014

High-grade gliomas are characterized by exuberant vascularization, diffuse invasion, and significant chemoresistance, resulting in a recurrent phenotype that makes them impossible to eradicate in the long term. Targeting protumoral signals in the glioma microenvironment could have significant impact against tumor cells and the supporting niche that facilitates their growth. Fibulin-3 is a protein secreted by glioma cells, but absent in normal brain, that promotes tumor invasion and survival. We show here that fibulin-3 is a paracrine activator of Notch signaling in endothelial cells and promotes glioma angiogenesis. Fibulin-3 overexpression increased tumor VEGF levels, microvascular density, and vessel permeability, whereas fibulin-3 knockdown reduced vessel density in xenograft models of glioma. Fibulin-3 localization in human glioblastomas showed dense fiber-like condensations around tumor blood vessels, which were absent in normal brain, suggesting a remarkable association of this protein with tumor endothelium. At the cellular level, fibulin-3 enhanced endothelial cell motility and association to glioma cells, reduced endothelial cell sprouting, and increased formation of endothelial tubules in a VEGF-independent and Notch-dependent manner. Fibulin-3 increased ADAM10/17 activity in endothelial cells by inhibiting the metalloprotease inhibitor TIMP3; this resulted in increased Notch cleavage and increased expression of DLL4 independently of VEGF signaling. Inhibition of ADAM10/17 or knockdown of DLL4 reduced the proangiogenic effects of fibulin-3 in culture. Taken together, these results reveal a novel, proangiogenic role of fibulin-3 in gliomas, highlighting the relevance of this protein as an important molecular target in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 74(19); 5435–48. ©2014 AACR.
Paracrine Network: Another Step in the Complexity of Resistance to EGFR Blockade?
Authors: Salazar Ramon , Capellà Gabriel , Tabernero Josep
Published: August 2014

Increased secretion of EGFR ligands amphiregulin and TGFα by limited KRAS-mutant clones is suggested as a paracrine resistance mechanism to anti-EGFR antibodies in colorectal cancer models. These findings are biologically sound but need to be replicated, including in the clinical setting, to foresee whether they are clinically relevant and therapeutically exploitable. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6227–9. ©2014 AACR.
Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhotic Patients with Portal Hypertension: Relevance of Hagen-Poiseuille's Law
Authors: Lake-Bakaar Gerond , Ahmed Muneeb , Evenson Amy , Bonder Alan , Faintuch Salomao , Sundaram Vinay
Published: August 2014

Background: Hepatic decompensation in cirrhosis heralds an accelerated course with poor survival. An increase in hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), rather than surrogate tests of liver function, appears to be the sole predictor of decompensation after surgical resection. We propose that hepatic sinusoidal walls become less elastic as cirrhosis progresses. Decompensation signals the development of increased vessel wall rigidity. The pressure-flow characteristics then become subject to Hagen-Poiseuille's law, which applies only to rigid, cylindrical vessels. Thereafter, HVPG rises exponentially (by a factor inversely proportional to the fourth power of the net radius of functional sinusoidal vessels , 1/r4, at any given hepatic blood flow rate. This review attempts to correlate liver stiffness, risk of decompensation and outcomes from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis. Summary: We compare the complexity of autoregulation in the normal elastic liver, which has a unique dual blood supply, with that in the rigid cirrhotic liver. We also review, in the context of background liver cirrhosis, the management of HCC which is in essence, a solid mass of unorganized cells that exacerbates liver stiffness. We discuss the differential effects of various therapeutic modalities such as liver transplantation, loco-regional therapy and drugs on HCC outcomes, based on their effects on HVPG. Key Messages: Increased hepatic artery supply, or the hepatic artery buffer response, may be the only available method for autoregulation or maintenance of hepatic blood flow in the cirrhotic liver. In HCC, loco-regional therapies, including partial resection of the cirrhotic liver, can exacerbate portal hypertension by increasing blood flow within the remnant organ. We conclude that studies of HVPG reduction as part of HCC management may be beneficial and are warranted.
Overexpression of Leucine-Rich Repeat-Containing G Protein-Coupled Receptor 5 (LGR5) Represents a Typical Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway-Activated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Effendi Kathryn , Yamazaki Ken , Fukuma Mariko , Sakamoto Michiie
Published: August 2014

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and most frequently lethal cancers worldwide. Although many advances have been made in the analysis of multistage hepatocarcinogenesis, we still lack information to guide adequate clinical management options for HCC. A large number of genetic alterations occur during hepatocarcinogenesis, and many genetic studies have indicated that one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes found in HCC is β-catenin. Summary: Molecular subclassification of HCC based on gene expression signatures has identified a typical hepatocyte-like subclass of HCC harboring β-catenin mutations; this subclass is characterized by better histological differentiation and a less aggressive nature. We previously identified overexpression of the leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), also known as GPR49, in HCC with β-catenin mutations. LGR5 has been indicated as one of the downstream target genes of the Wnt signaling pathway; however, the functional role of LGR5 in cancer is largely unknown. We demonstrated that HCC cells transfected with LGR5 exhibited higher colony forming activity and were more resistant to a cytotoxic drug than the control HCC cells were. Overexpression of LGR5 also retarded cell migration. LGR5-transfected HCC cells formed nodule-type tumors in the livers of immunodeficient mice, whereas control cells formed more invasive tumors. Results of our recent research suggest that aberrant expression of LGR5 could regulate the epithelial cell phenotype and promotes HCC cell survival. HCC cells overexpressing LGR5 seem to represent a typical phenotype of a less aggressive HCC. Key messages: Recent efforts on the molecular classification of HCC have led us to new strategies for dealing with HCC. These specific signatures may predict the risk of recurrence or the patient survival rate, which affect the outlook and may suggest treatment strategies for HCC patients.
Assessment of Cerebrovascular Reactivity during Resting State Breathing and Its Correlation with Cognitive Function in Hypertension
Authors: Hajjar Ihab , Marmerelis Vasilis , Shin Dae C. , Chui Helena
Published: August 2014

Background: Hypertension is associated with cognitive deficits, particularly executive function, and decreased cerebral microvascular responsiveness to CO2 (CO2 vasoreactivity). The relation between CO2 vasoreactivity and executive function is not known. Protocols to assess CO2 vasoreactivity are cumbersome and require inhaling a CO2-enriched gas. We explored the ability to measure CO2 vasoreactivity using end-tidal CO2 fluctuations during normal breathing and the association of this measure with cognitive function in hypertension. Methods: Executive function (Trail-Making Test parts A/B), memory, attention and blood flow velocity (BFV) in the middle cerebral artery using transcranial Doppler were measured in hypertensive subjects who were tapered off their treatment for 3 weeks. BFV was measured while sitting and normally breathing for 5 min, followed by breathing 5% CO2 gas and hyperventilation for 2 min each. We calculated CO2 vasoreactivity as the rate of BFV change from hypoventilation to hyperventilation, and as a model-derived measure using the normal breathing data. The latter was derived using nonlinear principal dynamic modes (PDM), which modelled the dynamic effect of fluctuations in end-tidal CO2 and blood pressure upon BFV during normal room-air respiration. Multiple regression analyses were used to correlate cerebral hemodynamics with cognitive measures. Results: Data were collected from 41 individuals with hypertension (mean age 71 years, 24% African Americans, 61% women, off antihypertensive therapy). Lower CO2 vasoreactivity was associated with a worse executive function test score using both calculation methods: p value using the hyper/hypoventilation data was 0.04 and from the PDM analysis was 0.009. PDM calculations showed a stronger correlation with executive function (0.41 vs. 0.21 using the hyper/hypoventilation data). There were no associations with memory or attention measures. There was a weak but statistically significant correlation between the two calculation methods of CO2 vasoreactivity (R2 = 14%, p = 0.02). Conclusion: This study suggests that the decrease in CO2 vasoreactivity in hypertension is associated with lower executive function. This may offer new insight into the vascular underpinning of cognitive decline in hypertension. We demonstrate that calculating CO2 vasoreactivity is possible during normal breathing. If replicated in future studies, this may offer a more convenient clinical way to assess CO2 vasoreactivity in hypertension and cognitive disorders.
Coronary Artery Tortuosity in Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Eleid Mackram F. , Guddeti Raviteja R. , Tweet Marysia S. , Lerman Amir , Singh Mandeep , Best Patricia J. , Vrtiska Terri J. , Prasad Megha , Rihal Charanjit S. , Hayes Sharonne N. , Gulati Rajiv
Published: August 2014

Background—

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an increasingly recognized nonatherosclerotic cause of acute coronary syndrome. The angiographic characteristics of SCAD are largely undetermined. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of coronary tortuosity in SCAD and whether it may be implicated in the disease.

Methods and Results—

Patients with confirmed SCAD (n=246; 45.3±8.9 years; 96% women) and 313 control patients without SCAD or coronary artery disease who underwent coronary angiography were included in this case–control study. Angiograms were reviewed for coronary tortuosity and assigned a tortuosity score. Tortuosity was common in patients presenting with their first SCAD event (78% versus 17% in controls;
P
<0.0001; tortuosity score, 4.41±1.73 versus 2.33±1.49 in controls;
P
<0.0001) despite a low prevalence of hypertension (34%). Recurrent SCAD (n=40) occurred within segments of tortuosity in 80% of cases. Severe tortuosity (≥2 consecutive curvatures ≥180°) was associated with a higher risk of recurrent SCAD (hazard ratio, 3.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.99–8.29;
P
=0.05). Tortuosity score >5 was associated with a trend toward higher risk of recurrent SCAD (
P
=0.16). Prespecified angiographic markers of tortuosity including corkscrew appearance and multivessel symmetrical tortuosity were associated with extracoronary vasculopathy including fibromuscular dysplasia (
P
<0.05 for both).

Conclusions—

Coronary artery tortuosity is highly prevalent in the SCAD population and is associated with recurrent SCAD. Recurrent SCAD most often occurs within segments of tortuosity. Angiographic features of SCAD are associated with extracoronary vasculopathy, including fibromuscular dysplasia. These findings suggest that coronary tortuosity may serve as a marker or potential mechanism for SCAD.
Early Deterioration After Thrombolysis Plus Aspirin in Acute Stroke
Authors: Zinkstok Sanne M. , Beenen Ludo F. , Majoie Charles B. , Marquering Henk A. , de Haan Rob J. , Roos Yvo B.
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose—

Aspirin early after intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke increases the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH), without influencing functional outcome at 3 months. The effect of aspirin on early neurological deterioration (END) was explored as a post hoc analysis of the randomized Antiplatelet Therapy in Combination With Recombinant t-PA Thrombolysis in Ischemic Stroke (ARTIS) trial.

Methods—

END, defined as a ≥4 points National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale worsening ≤24 hours after intravenous thrombolysis, was categorized into SICH (END
SICH
) and cerebral ischemia (END
CI
). Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the effect of aspirin on END.

Results—

Of the 640 patients, 31 patients (4.8%) experienced END (14 END
SICH
, 17 END
CI
). Aspirin increased the risk of END
SICH
(odds ratio, 3.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–13.49) but not of END
CI
(odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 0.44–3.00). After adjustment for other explanatory variables, the association between aspirin and END
SICH
remained significant.

Conclusions—

In this trial, there is no evidence of an early antithrombotic effect from the addition of aspirin to intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke.
Impact of Living Alone on the Care and Outcomes of Patients With Acute Stroke
Authors: Reeves Mathew J. , Prager Marla , Fang Jiming , Stamplecoski Melissa , Kapral Moira K.
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose—

Outcomes among patients living alone at stroke onset could be directly affected by reduced access to acute therapies or indirectly through the effects of social isolation. We examined the associations between living alone at home and acute stroke care and outcomes in the Registry of the Canadian Stroke Network.

Methods—

Between 2003 and 2008, 10 048 patients with acute stroke (87% ischemic, 13% hemorrhagic) who were living at home were admitted to 11 Ontario hospitals. Outcomes included arrival ≤2.5 hours of onset, thrombolytic treatment, discharge home, 30-day and 1-year mortality, and 1-year readmission. The effects of living alone versus living with others were determined using multivariable logistic regression.

Results—

Overall, 22.8% (n=2288) of patients were living alone at home before stroke. Subjects living alone were significantly older (mean, 74.6 versus 71.5 years), more likely to be women (61.5% versus 41.4%), widowed (53.7% versus 12.3%), or single (21.5% versus 3.8%). Patients living alone were less likely to arrive within 2.5 hours (28.3% versus 40.0%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.48–0.60), to receive thrombolysis (8.0% versus 14.0%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.43–0.63), or to be discharged home (46.0% versus 54.7%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.58–0.73). There were no significant associations between living alone and mortality or readmission.

Conclusions—

Patients living alone had delayed hospital arrival, less thrombolytic therapy, and were less likely to return home. Greater understanding of the inter-relationships among living alone, social isolation, access to stroke care, and outcomes is needed.
Ultranationalist Genocides: Failures of Global Justice in Nigeria and Pakistan
Authors: Travis Hannibal
Published: August 2014

International law entered a period of accelerated change in the decade after the genocide of the Ibo people in Nigeria. By 1979, jurists had drafted much-needed reforms to international law in the areas of prohibited methods of war, the rights of refugees, and the infliction of severe pain to punish dissent or to discriminate on racial or religious grounds. These reforms, if implemented in good faith, provide a basis for international criminal tribunals to punish the widespread killing and abuse of civilians in non-international armed conflicts. International courts analysed few such conflicts in the decades after the Genocide Convention entered into force, despite the aim of the convention to prevent genocide by public or private actors, in time of war or peace, and by targeting a group in whole or in part. This article analyses the Ibo genocide in terms of the techniques used by the Nigerian army to destroy the Ibo ethnic group in substantial part, including massacres of Ibo civilians, imposition of widespread and disease epidemics on the Ibos, and rape of Ibos as a matter of policy. It surveys the influence of the Biafran genocide on the evolution of international norms relating to war crimes, refugees, and torture. The international community multiplied norms in lieu of enforcing them, in this case as in others.
Greek Oligarchy, and the pre-Solonian Areopagos Council in [Aristotle] Ath. Pol. 2.2-8.4
Authors: Wallace Robert W.
Published: August 2014

Unlike the Senate of Republican Rome, this essay argues that councils were not the dominant or governing power in Greek oligarchies. Together with powerful officials and other powerful individuals, citizen assemblies mainly governed oligarchies, but admission to oligarchic assemblies was restricted by wealth. Before Solon, did the Areopagos Council govern oligarchic Athens? The principal source for this claim, [Arist.] Ath. Pol. 2-8, at least assigns the early Areopagos a broad judicial competence. Where did Ath. Pol.’s notion come from, and what is it worth? Although ‘some people’ (Aristotle) or ‘most people’ (Plutarch) believed that Solon established the Areopagos Council, Ath. Pol. (and also Aristotle and Plutarch) rejected that notion, possibly because along with others, Ath. Pol. and Aristotle thought that Solon founded Athens’ democracy, while for fourth century conservatives the early Areopagos was non-democratic. In part the competence of Ath. Pol.’s pre-Solonian Areopagos derives from and expanded its Solonian competence in Ath. Pol. 8.4, so that for Ath. Pol. democratic Solon will have reduced the Areopagos’ powers. In part it derives from fourth century conservative propaganda. This evidence is inadequate to claim that the Areopagos Council governed oligarchic Athens.
Indigenous Identity, Natural Resources, and Contentious Politics in Bolivia
Authors: Mähler Annegret , Pierskalla Jan H.
Published: August 2014

How do natural resources and ethnic identity interact to incite or to mitigate social conflict? This article argues that high-value natural resources can act as an important catalyst for the politicization of ethnic, specifically indigenous identity, and contribute to social conflict as they limit the malleability of identity frames and raise the stakes of confrontations. We test this argument using unique sub-national data from Bolivian provinces. Drawing on Bolivian newspaper reports, we code conflict events for all of the 112 provinces from 2000 to 2011. We join this conflict data with information on local ethnic composition from the census, the political representation of ethnic groups at the national level, as well as geo-spatial information on gas deposits. Using time-series cross-sectional count models, we show a significant conflict-promoting effect of the share of indigenous people in provinces with gas reserves, but not without.
Toward Emically Informed Cross-Cultural Comparisons
Authors: Boehnke Klaus , Arnaut Cristina , Bremer Timo , Chinyemba Ruvarashe , Kiewitt Yannic , Koudadjey Annick Kokoe , Mwangase Ruth , Neubert Lea
Published: August 2014

Current-day cross-cultural psychology typically attends to a linguistic equivalence requirement for the assessment of one and the same psychological construct in different cultures. The present article suggests loosening the requirement of using identically worded items in all cultures included in a cross-cultural comparison in favor of following a more emic methodology in instrument development. Using purely illustrative material on the relationship of paternal warmth and trust in five cultures (Germany, Moldova–Russian, Togo–French, Zambia–English, and Zimbabwe–Shona), an approach is suggested that develops items autonomously within the cultures included in a comparison, subsequently ascertains structural and measurement equivalence of covariance matrices obtained on the basis of items differently worded in different cultures, and finally validates the measurement by showing the equality of the relationship of the differentially measured latent construct under scrutiny (here, paternal warmth) with the comparison variable (here, trust) in all cultures. The authors hope to offer first steps toward a quantitative emic comparative psychology and discuss further research needs.
Advanced Biomatrix Designs for Regenerative Therapy of Periodontal Tissues
Authors: Kim J.H. , Park C.H. , Perez R.A. , Lee H.Y. , Jang J.H. , Lee H.H. , Wall I.B. , Shi S. , Kim H.W.
Published: August 2014

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that causes loss of the tooth-supporting apparatus, including periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. A broad range of treatment options is currently available to restore the structure and function of the periodontal tissues. A regenerative approach, among others, is now considered the most promising paradigm for this purpose, harnessing the unique properties of stem cells. How to make full use of the body’s innate regenerative capacity is thus a key issue. While stem cells and bioactive factors are essential components in the regenerative processes, matrices play pivotal roles in recapitulating stem cell functions and potentiating therapeutic actions of bioactive molecules. Moreover, the positions of appropriate bioactive matrices relative to the injury site may stimulate the innate regenerative stem cell populations, removing the need to deliver cells that have been manipulated outside of the body. In this topical review, we update views on advanced designs of biomatrices—including mimicking of the native extracellular matrix, providing mechanical stimulation, activating cell-driven matrices, and delivering bioactive factors in a controllable manner—which are ultimately useful for the regenerative therapy of periodontal tissues.
Fighting words
Authors: McManus Roseanne W
Published: August 2014

This article examines the effectiveness of public statements of resolve in international conflict. Several prominent theories, including domestic audience cost theory and theories regarding international reputation, suggest that issuing resolved statements can help a leader achieve a more favorable outcome in conflict bargaining. Because they entail costs for backing down, these statements are believed to credibly convey resolve to an adversary. This can help to alleviate the uncertainty created by private information about resolve and persuade the adversary to back down. Despite the prevalence of this theoretical logic, the effectiveness of statements of resolve at influencing conflict outcomes has rarely been subjected to direct tests, and some recent empirical work has raised doubts about statements’ effectiveness. This article is the first to directly examine the effect of resolved statements on conflict outcomes using large-N analysis. It introduces original data, created using content analysis, which directly measure the level of resolved statements made by US presidents during militarized interstate disputes (MIDs). Analysis of these data demonstrates that a higher level of resolved statements is indeed associated with a greater chance of prevailing in disputes. This finding is substantively significant and robust, providing support for the argument that public statements play an important role in international conflict.
Fatal tusk injuries from a wild boar attack
Authors: Tumram Nilesh Keshav , Dhawne Shailendra G , Ambade Vipul Namdeorao , Dixit Pradeep Gangadhar
Published: August 2014

Injuries caused by wild boar attacks are rare. The pattern of the tusk injuries by wild boar is rarely been mentioned in literature. Such injuries can be termed “tusk injuries”. Herein, we discuss the pattern of a wild boar tusk wound following an attack on a 65-year-old man who sustained fatal injuries as a result.
No Crisis but Methodological Separatism: A Comparative Study of Finnish and Danish Publication Trends between 1990 and 2009
Authors: Erola Jani , Reimer David , Räsänen Pekka , Kropp Kristoffer
Published: August 2014

This article compares methodological trends in nationally and internationally oriented sociology using data from the articles of three Nordic sociological journals: one international ( Acta Sociologica), one Finnish ( Sosiologia), and one Danish ( Dansk Sociologi). The data consists of 943 articles in total: 353 published in Acta Sociologica, 277 in Sosiologia and 313 in Dansk Sociologi over the period 1990–2009. We distinguish between three main types of article: those having no or very little empirical content; empirical articles applying qualitative analysis; and empirical articles applying quantitative methods. The results suggest that quantitative research is increasingly concentrated in international publishing venues, while national journals act more and more as platforms for qualitative research. In conclusion, the broader implications of these diverging publishing trends for sociological research are discussed.
Spaces for Citizen Involvement in Healthcare: An Ethnographic Study
Authors: Renedo Alicia , Marston Cicely
Published: August 2014

This ethnographic study examines how participatory spaces and citizenship are co-constituted in participatory healthcare improvement efforts. We propose a theoretical framework for participatory citizenship in which acts of citizenship in healthcare are understood in terms of the spaces they are in. Participatory spaces consist of material, temporal and social dimensions that constrain citizens’ actions. Participants draw on external resources to try to make participatory spaces more productive and collaborative, to connect and expand them. We identify three classes of tactics they use to do this: ‘plotting’, ‘transient combination’ and ‘interconnecting’. All tactics help participants assemble to a greater or lesser extent a less fragmented participatory landscape with more potential for positive impact on healthcare. Participants’ acts of citizenship both shape and are shaped by participatory spaces. To understand participatory citizenship, we should take spatiality into account, and track the ongoing spatial negotiations and productions through which people can improve healthcare.
The Transition from Seasonal Worker to Permanent Resident
Authors: Ooi Natalie , Mair Judith , Laing Jennifer
Published: August 2014

While seasonal workers form a central component of the tourism industry, there has been limited research on their sociological interactions with, and acceptance by, the host communities in which they reside. This ethnographic case study uses social capital as a heuristic device to examine the experiences of, and social barriers faced by, seasonal workers hoping to become permanent community residents within the mountain resort community of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Research findings indicate the existence of social barriers in the form of tight bonding networks and a lack of bridging networks, which exclude and marginalize many of these seasonal workers from the community. This has helped promote residential instability in what is already a transient community, raising concerns regarding future community ownership and attachment.
Repainting Religious Landscape: Economics of Conversion and Making of Rice Christians in Colonial South India (1781–1880)
Authors: Doss M. Christhu
Published: August 2014

Religious accessions and conversions have been spawning a great deal of scholarly attention from various academic disciplines. Conversion to Christianity is defined within the social, cultural, political and philosophical contexts, and suggests that it is a consequence of persuasion, cognitive act, commitment of a free will or a change from one view to another. But the main difficulty with such arguments is that they often tend to ignore the distinct historical experiences of the converts, because the explanations offered for the relatively increased number of Christians among the economically-challenged communities during the study period largely centred around factors which were ‘outside’ the missionary politics. The converts’ poor and denigrated economic conditions due to natural calamities and other reasons seemed to be chiefly responsible for the origin of the much-celebrated and much-maligned ‘rice Christians’ in the southern part of the subcontinent. From a pecuniary standpoint, the economics of conversion became a much-preferred option among the Protestant converts rather than their religiosity per se or the content of their religious belief. Therefore, the ways in which the idea of rice Christians emerged, studied and interpreted are worth a critical enquiry. This article argues that missionary Christianity as developed in colonial south India among both the affluent as well as the disadvantaged sections of the society had also created a parallel, monolithic and unclassified rice Christian class within the broader Christian discourse both in theory and practice and that they are distinctly different in terms of their socio-cultural and political as well as economic conditions elsewhere in the country.
Review Article: Joya Chatterji, The Spoils of Partition: Bengal and India, 1947–1967
Authors: Batabyal Rakesh
Published: August 2014

Joya Chatterji, The Spoils of Partition: Bengal and India, 1947–1967, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2007, pp. xvi + 343
Book Review: Aditya Mukherjee, ed., A Centenary History of the Indian National Congress, Vol. V: 1964–84
Authors: Misra Salil
Published: August 2014

Aditya Mukherjee, ed., A Centenary History of the Indian National Congress, Vol. V: 1964–84, under the chairmanship of Pranab Mukherjee, Academic Foundation, New Delhi, 2011, pp. 647, ₹1295.
Child-friendly procedures and accommodations for the use of a self-report fear survey with children who have visual impairments: Reflections on a South African case study
Authors: Visagie Lisa , Loxton Helene
Published: August 2014

Although the experience of childhood fear has been deemed a common phenomenon, in some cases, children’s fears can become excessive and interfere with daily functioning and activities, and may thus warrant clinical attention. It is in cases such as these that reliable and valid methods to assess childhood fears are required. Although normative fear literature describes many effective modes of assessment, these methods are not accessible to all children, and certain accommodations are necessary when assessing the fears of children with visual impairments. This article provides a reflection on a case study where the fears of 67 South African children with varying degrees of visual impairment were assessed using the South African version of the Fear Survey Schedule for Children (FSSC-SA). Aspects relating to child-friendly procedure and accommodations are discussed.
An adapted adult day centre for older adults with sensory impairment
Authors: Wittich Walter , Murphy Caitlin , Mulrooney Daphne
Published: August 2014

The MAB-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre runs a Day Centre Programme whose objectives are to maintain or improve the seniors’ biological, psychological, and social health while delaying or avoiding institutionalization. Activities include walking groups, language courses, and memory games, supervised by an interdisciplinary team. Services include rehabilitation follow-up and referrals to community resources. The present study reports on the impact of the Day Centre on the holistic health of older adults with visual impairment. Between September 2011 and October 2012, 30 newly referred clients (age = 71–98 years, M = 85, visual acuity [VA] 20/50 to no-light-perception [NLP], M = 20/126) were evaluated at intake, and after 6 and 12 months, including the Visual Function Questionnaire-14, Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly, Geriatric Depression Scale, Friendship Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). In all, 19 participants completed the 1-year follow-up and continued to live independently in the community 12 months after entering the Day Centre. Only one person was transferred into long-term care. Comorbid conditions included high blood pressure, asthma, cardiac problems, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, and osteoporosis. Participants reported statistically unchanged scores on all the measures, except for improved MoCA scores, p < .05. Considering the vulnerability of this population, the data indicate that the Day Centre contributes to prevent decline in its clients’ general well-being. The increase in cognitive scores is possibly linked to practice effects and reduced test anxiety. Participation in adapted Day Centre activities, as an integrated part of rehabilitation services, may support independent living in older adults with vision loss.