bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Flow and Transport in the Human Placenta
Authors: Jensen Oliver E. , Chernyavsky Igor L.
Published: August 2018

The placenta is a multifunctional organ that exchanges blood gases and nutrients between a mother and her developing fetus. In humans, fetal blood flows through intricate networks of vessels confined within villous trees, the branches of which are bathed in pools of maternal blood. Fluid mechanics and transport processes play a central role in understanding how these elaborate structures contribute to the function of the placenta and how their disorganization may lead to disease. Recent advances in imaging and computation have spurred significant advances in simulations of fetal and maternal flows within the placenta across a range of length scales. Models describe jets of maternal blood emerging from spiral arteries into a disordered and deformable porous medium, as well as solute uptake by fetal blood flowing through elaborate three-dimensional capillary networks. We survey recent developments and emerging challenges in modeling flow and transport in this complex organ.
Silicon Calorimeters
Authors: Brient J.-C. , Rusack R. , Sefkow F.
Published: August 2018

We review the development of silicon-based calorimeters from the very first applications of small calorimeters used in collider experiments to the large-scale systems that are being designed today. We discuss silicon-based electromagnetic calorimeters for future e− e+ colliders and for the upgrade of the CMS experiment's endcap calorimeter to be used in the high-luminosity phase of the LHC. We present the intrinsic advantages of silicon as an active detector material and highlight the enabling technologies that have made calorimeters with very high channel densities feasible. We end by discussing the outlook for further extensions to the silicon calorimeter concept, such as calorimeters with fine-pitched pixel detectors.
Sex differences in the mechanisms mediating blunted cutaneous microvascular function in young black men and women
Authors: Patik Jordan C. , Curtis Bryon M. , Nasirian Aida , Vranish Jennifer R. , Fadel Paul J. , Brothers R. Matthew
Published: August 2018

The black population exhibits attenuated vasodilatory function across their lifespan, yet little is known regarding the mechanisms of this impairment. Recent evidence suggests a potential role for oxidative stress. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that NADPH oxidase (NOX) and/or xanthine oxidase (XO) contribute to blunted nitric oxide (NO)-mediated cutaneous microvascular function in young black adults. In 30 white and black subjects (8 men and 7 women in each group), local heating was performed while NOX and XO were inhibited by apocynin and allopurinol, respectively, via intradermal microdialysis. The plateau in cutaneous vascular conductance (red blood cell flux/mean arterial pressure) during 39°C local heating at each site was compared with a control site perfused with lactated Ringer solution. Subsequent inhibition of NO synthase via Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester allowed for quantification of the NO contribution to vasodilation during heating. Black individuals, relative to white individuals, had a blunted cutaneous vascular conductance plateau at the control site (45 ± 9 vs. 68 ± 13%max, P < 0.001) that was increased by both apocynin (61 ± 15%max, P < 0.001) and allopurinol (58 ± 17%max, P = 0.005). Black men and black women had similar responses to heating at the control site ( P = 0.99), yet apocynin and allopurinol increased this response only in black men (both P < 0.001 vs. control). The NO contribution was also increased via apocynin and allopurinol exclusively in black men. These findings suggest that cutaneous microvascular function is reduced because of NOX and XO activity in black men but not black women, identifying a novel sex difference in the mechanisms that contribute to blunted vascular responses in the black population.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrate that cutaneous microvascular responses to local heating are consistently reduced in otherwise healthy young black men and women relative to their white counterparts. Inhibition of NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase via apocynin and allopurinol, respectively, augments microvascular function in black men but not black women. These data reveal clear sex differences in the mechanisms underlying the racial disparity in cutaneous microvascular function.
Altered arterial baroreflex-muscle metaboreflex interaction in heart failure
Authors: Kaur Jasdeep , Krishnan Abhinav C. , Senador Danielle , Alvarez Alberto , Hanna Hanna W. , O’Leary Donal S.
Published: August 2018

Two powerful reflexes controlling cardiovascular function during exercise are the muscle metaboreflex and arterial baroreflex. In heart failure (HF), the strength and mechanisms of these reflexes are altered. Muscle metaboreflex activation (MMA) in normal subjects increases mean arterial pressure (MAP) primarily via increases in cardiac output (CO), whereas in HF the mechanism shifts to peripheral vasoconstriction. Baroreceptor unloading increases MAP via peripheral vasoconstriction, and this pressor response is blunted in HF. Baroreceptor unloading during MMA in normal animals elicits an enormous pressor response via combined increases in CO and peripheral vasoconstriction. The mode of interaction between these reflexes is intimately dependent on the parameter (e.g., MAP and CO) being investigated. The interaction between the two reflexes when activated simultaneously during dynamic exercise in HF is unknown. We activated the muscle metaboreflex in chronically instrumented dogs during mild exercise (via graded reductions in hindlimb blood flow) followed by baroreceptor unloading [via bilateral carotid occlusion (BCO)] before and after induction of HF. We hypothesized that BCO during MMA in HF would cause a smaller increase in MAP and a larger vasoconstriction of ischemic hindlimb vasculature, which would attenuate the restoration of blood flow to ischemic muscle observed in normal dogs. We observed that BCO during MMA in HF increases MAP by substantial vasoconstriction of all vascular beds, including ischemic active muscle, and that all cardiovascular responses, except ventricular function, exhibit occlusive interaction. We conclude that vasoconstriction of ischemic active skeletal muscle in response to baroreceptor unloading during MMA attenuates restoration of hindlimb blood flow.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We found that baroreceptor unloading during the muscle metaboreflex in heart failure results in occlusive interaction (except for ventricular function) with significant vasoconstriction of all vascular beds. In addition, restoration of blood flow to ischemic active muscle, via preferentially larger vasoconstriction of nonischemic beds, is significantly attenuated in heart failure.
Infarct size-limiting effect of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid analog EET-B is mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1α via downregulation of prolyl hydroxylase 3
Authors: Neckář Jan , Hsu Anna , Hye Khan Md. Abdul , Gross Garrett J. , Nithipatikom Kasem , Cyprová Michaela , Benák Daniel , Hlaváčková Markéta , Sotáková-Kašparová Dita , Falck John R. , Sedmera David , Kolář František , Imig John D.
Published: August 2018

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) decrease cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury; however, the mechanism of their protective effect remains elusive. Here, we investigated the cardioprotective action of a novel EET analog, EET-B, in reperfusion and the role of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α in such action of EET-B. Adult male rats were subjected to 30 min of left coronary artery occlusion followed by 2 h of reperfusion. Administration of 14,15-EET (2.5 mg/kg) or EET-B (2.5 mg/kg) 5 min before reperfusion reduced infarct size expressed as a percentage of the area at risk from 64.3 ± 1.3% in control to 42.6 ± 1.9% and 46.0 ± 1.6%, respectively, and their coadministration did not provide any stronger effect. The 14,15-EET antagonist 14,15-epoxyeicosa-5( Z)-enoic acid (2.5 mg/kg) inhibited the infarct size-limiting effect of EET-B (62.5 ± 1.1%). Similarly, the HIF-1α inhibitors 2-methoxyestradiol (2.5 mg/kg) and acriflavine (2 mg/kg) completely abolished the cardioprotective effect of EET-B. In a separate set of experiments, the immunoreactivity of HIF-1α and its degrading enzyme prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 3 (PHD3) were analyzed in the ischemic areas and nonischemic septa. At the end of ischemia, the HIF-1α immunogenic signal markedly increased in the ischemic area compared with the septum (10.31 ± 0.78% vs. 0.34 ± 0.08%). After 20 min and 2 h of reperfusion, HIF-1α immunoreactivity decreased to 2.40 ± 0.48% and 1.85 ± 0.43%, respectively, in the controls. EET-B blunted the decrease of HIF-1α immunoreactivity (7.80 ± 0.69% and 6.44 ± 1.37%, respectively) and significantly reduced PHD3 immunogenic signal in ischemic tissue after reperfusion. In conclusion, EET-B provides an infarct size-limiting effect at reperfusion that is mediated by HIF-1α and downregulation of its degrading enzyme PHD3.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study shows that EET-B is an effective agonistic 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid analog, and its administration before reperfusion markedly reduced myocardial infarction in rats. Most importantly, we demonstrate that increased hypoxia-inducible factor-1α levels play a role in cardioprotection mediated by EET-B in reperfusion likely by mechanisms including downregulation of the hypoxia-inducible factor -1α-degrading enzyme prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 3.
Endoglin Targeting in Colorectal Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Becker Lisa M. , LeBleu Valerie S.
Published: August 2018

On endothelial cells, the TGFβ/BMP-9 coreceptor, endoglin, emerged as a promising antiangiogenic target in colorectal cancer. Its promiscuous expression by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) emerges to facilitate metastasis. The multitarget impact of neutralizing endoglin may offer added benefit in controlling colorectal cancer.

See related article by Paauwe et al., p. 6331
Acute Kidney Failure as a Single Complication of Varicella Virus Infection in an Adult Patient
Authors: Premužić Vedran , Santini Marija , Laganović Mario , Ćorić Marijana , Jelaković Bojan
Published: August 2018

Background: Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is distributed worldwide and is highly contagious. In adults and immunosuppressed patients of any age, the clinical course is much more severe. The most severe complications are pneumonia (the main cause of lethal outcomes in this infection), encephalitis, and very rarely Reye syndrome and hepatitis. Case Presentation: We present a 59-year-old man who came to the emergency department due to varicella and diarrhea. During initial evaluation acute kidney failure (AKF) was diagnosed, and the patient was admitted to the intensive care unit. Continuous renal replacement therapy was applied, and the patient was treated with acyclovir in adjusted doses; renal biopsy revealed acute tubular necrosis. Complete renal function recovery was established after 12 days. Conclusion: VZV infection occurs in a range of clinical scenarios, sometimes presenting only with mild symptoms, but in some other setting it can result in severe AKF even in healthy kidneys. Acute VZV infection can lead to isolated, clinically significant kidney failure. The administration of continuous renal replacement therapy and adjusted doses of acyclovir has a favorable effect on the course of the infection, with complete recovery of kidney function.
A Rare Case of Severe Metabolic Alkalosis with Unusual Hyperproteinemia Treated with Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy and Regional Citrate Anticoagulation
Authors: Matoušek Vojtěch , Herold Ivan , Holanová Lenka , Balík Martin
Published: August 2018

A 23-year-old woman was referred to the tertiary centre with acute kidney injury and severe metabolic alkalosis following an accidental ethylene glycol poisoning. The patient had been treated with continuous haemodiafiltration and regional citrate anticoagulation, and a tracheostomy was performed due to pneumonia. Besides severe metabolic alkalosis and hypernatremia, the laboratory tests revealed total protein of 108 g/L on admission to the tertiary centre. The haemodiafiltration with regional citrate anticoagulation continued with parallel correction of the alkalosis and normalisation of the total plasma protein. The tracheostomy was decannulated and the patient was discharged to the district hospital. The case demonstrates the usefulness of regional citrate anticoagulation even in severe metabolic alkalosis which was likely related to the method setting prior to admission and to an overcompensation of the initial severe metabolic acidosis. The unusual hyperproteinaemia might be interpreted with the aid of the Stewart-Fencl model of the acid-base regulation.
Inhibition of ITCH Suppresses Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis of Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Peng-Fei , Zhang Qi-Gang
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: The E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH plays an important role in invasive and metastatic cancers. However, the role of ITCH in the progression of lung cancer has not been fully described. Methods: Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of ITCH mRNA in the tumor tissues and paracarcinoma tissues from 32 patients with lung cancer. SiRNA was used to inhibit the expression of ITCH in two lung cancer cell lines, H1975 and Calu3 and the cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured by MTT and flow cytometric assay. In addition, to further investigate whether ITCH affected the apoptosis of cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms, the expression of important markers of apoptosis and invasion in lung cancer cells were detected by Western blot. Results: The study showed significant increments in the expression of ITCH in lung cancer tissues (p< 0.001). ITCH siRNA effectively inhibited the proliferation and invasion of the lung cancer cells and promoted cell apoptosis. Molecular analysis further showed significant reductions in the expression of Bcl2, MMP2, MMP9 and β-catenin and an increase in the expression of Bax and E-cadherin in the lung cancer cells with ITCH deficiency. Conclusions: Inhibition of ITCH might suppress lung cancer proliferation and invasion via regulation of MMPs, EMT and Bcl2/Bax signaling pathway.
TRPC6-Mediated Ca2+ Signaling is Required for Hypoxia-Induced Autophagy in Human Podocytes
Authors: Ji Tianrong , Zhang Chengwei , Ma Linlin , Wang Qin , Zou Li , Meng Kexin , Zhang Rui , Jiao Jundong
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Intracellular Ca2+ signaling plays an important role in the regulation of autophagy. However, very little is known about the role of Ca2+ influx, which is induced by plasma membrane Ca2+ channels. Our previous study showed that transient receptor potential canonical channel-6 (TRPC6), a major Ca2+ influx pathway in podocytes, was activated by hypoxia. Here, we investigated whether TRPC6 is involved in hypoxia-induced autophagy in cultured human podocytes. Methods: In the present study, an immortalized human podocyte cell line was used. Fluo-3 fluorescence was utilized to determine intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and western blotting was used to measure autophagy and protein expression. Results: We found that blockade TRPC6 by using either TRPC6 siRNA or a TRPC6 blocker attenuated hypoxia-induced autophagy, while enhancement of TRPC6 activity with a TRPC6 activator enhanced hypoxia-induced autophagy. Furthermore, TRPC6-dependent Ca2+ signaling is responsible for hypoxia-induced autophagy since both an intracellular and extracellular Ca2+ chelator abolished hypoxia-induced autophagy. Moreover, we found that blockade of TRPC6 by using either TRPC6 siRNA or a TRPC6 blocker decreased the expression of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an important signaling molecule in Ca2+-dependent autophagy activation, which is activated under hypoxic conditions. These data suggest that the involvement of TRPC6 in hypoxia-induced autophagy is associated with AMPK signaling. Conclusion: TRPC6 is essential for hypoxia-induced autophagy in podocytes.
Dietary Salt Intake is a Significant Determinant of Impaired Kidney Function in the General Population
Authors: Sugiura Tomonori , Takase Hiroyuki , Ohte Nobuyuki , Dohi Yasuaki
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Kidney dysfunction is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and end-stage renal disease. This study investigated whether dietary salt intake predicts deterioration of kidney function in the general population. Methods: In all, 12 126 subjects with a normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR ≥60 mL/min per 1.73m2) attending an annual check-up were enrolled in the study and were followed-up for a median of 1754 days; the endpoint was the development of impaired kidney function (eGFR < 60 mL/min per 1.73m2). Individual salt intake was estimated using spot urine analysis. Results: At baseline, mean (± SD) salt intake and eGFR were 10.6 ± 3.4 g/day and 80.8 ± 12.9 mL/min per 1.73m2, respectively. During the follow-up period, 1384 subjects (25.2 per 1000 person-years) developed impaired kidney function. Multivariate Cox hazard regression analysis revealed salt intake as a significant predictor of the new onset of kidney impairment (hazard ratio 1.045; 95% confidence interval 1.025–1.065). Subjects were divided into two groups based on salt intake; the incidence of impaired kidney function was higher in the group with high than low salt intake (P < 0.001, log-rank test). Multivariate Cox hazard regression analysis indicated a 29% increased risk of developing impaired kidney function in the high-salt group. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed a significant correlation between salt intake and yearly decline in eGFR (β = 0.060, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Salt intake is associated with the development of impaired kidney function in the general population, independent of its effects on blood pressure. Salt restriction may help prevent the development of impaired kidney function.
Prognostic Value of Urinary Calprotectin, NGAL and KIM-1 in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Seibert Felix S. , Sitz Maximilian , Passfall Jürgen , Haesner Martin , Laschinski Peter , Buhl Martin , Bauer Frederic , Babel Nina , Pagonas Nikolaos , Westhoff Timm H.
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Urinary biomarkers like neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) do not only allow an early diagnosis of acute kidney injury, but also provide prognostic information in this setting. The present prospective study investigates, whether the urinary biomarkers NGAL, KIM-1 and calprotectin have prognostic information in chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well. Methods: Urinary calprotectin, NGAL and KIM-1 concentrations were assessed in a study population of 143 patients with stable CKD comprising diabetic and hypertensive nephropathy, glomerulonephritis/vasculitis, and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. An eGFR fluctuation > 5ml/min/1.73m2 in the past 12 months was defined as an exclusion criterion in order to exclude cases with acute on chronic kidney injury. Renal function was monitored for a median follow-up of 37 months. Results: In the overall study population, all the three biomarkers failed to predict DeGFR and DACR from baseline to follow-up in linear regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, and baseline eGFR. Contrarily, baseline ACR was significantly associated with DeGFR (p< 0.001). In the subgroup of patients with vasculitis and glomerulonephritis, all the three biomarkers were significantly associated with DeGFR, with calprotectin having the highest regression coefficient. Conclusion: In contrast to the traditional biomarker “albuminuria”, neither the inflammatory biomarker calprotectin, nor the tubular biomarkers NGAL and KIM-1, provide robust prognostic information on the loss or renal function in a heterogeneous CKD population. All of them, however, are candidate prognostic biomarkers in primarily inflammatory renal diseases.
Serum Free Light Chains Removal by HFR Hemodiafiltration in Patients with Multiple Myeloma and Acute Kidney Injury: a Case Series
Authors: Menè Paolo , Giammarioli Elisa , Fofi Claudia , Antolino Giusy , Verde Giacinto La , Tafuri Agostino , Punzo Giorgio , Festuccia Francescaromana
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Multiple myeloma (MM) represents 10% of all haematologic malignancies. Renal involvement occurs in 50% of MM patients; of them, 12-20% have acute kidney injury (AKI), with 10% needing dialysis at presentation. While hemodialysis (HD) has no effect upon circulating and tissue levels of monoclonal proteins, novel apheretic techniques aim at removing the paraproteins responsible for glomerular/tubular deposition disease. High cut-off HD (HCO-HD) combined with chemotherapy affords a sustained reduction of serum free light chains (FLC) levels. One alternative technology is haemodiafiltration with ultrafiltrate regeneration by adsorption on resin (HFR–SUPRA), employing a “super high-flux” membrane (polyphenylene S-HF, with a nominal cut-off of 42 kD). Aim of our pilot study was to analyze the effectiveness of HFR-SUPRA in reducing the burden of FLC, while minimizing albumin loss and hastening recovery of renal function in 6 subjects with MM complicated by AKI. Methods: Six HD-dependent patients with MM were treated with 5 consecutive sessions of HFR-SUPRA on a Bellco® monitor, while simultaneously initiating chemotherapy. Levels of albumin and FLC were assessed, calculating the rates of reduction. Renal outcome, HD withdrawal and clinical follow-up or death were recorded. Results: All patients showed a significant reduction of FLC, whereas serum albumin concentration remained unchanged. In three, HD was withdrawn, switching to a chemotherapy alone regimen. The other patients remained HD-dependent and died shortly thereafter for cardiovascular complications. Conclusion: Our study suggests that HFR-SUPRA provides a rapid and effective reduction in serum FLC in patients with MM and AKI, while minimizing the loss of albumin. When started early in combination with chemotherapy, blood purification by HFR-SUPRA was followed by the recovery of renal function in half of the patients treated.
Ethnozoological Survey of Traditional Uses of Temminck’s Ground Pangolin (Smutsia temminckii) in South Africa
Authors: Baiyewu Abimbola O. , Boakye Maxwell K. , Kotzé Antoinette , Dalton Desiré L. , Jansen Raymond
Published: August 2018

Pangolins are elusive and threatened mammals, considered the most widely traded mammals on Earth supplying local African and Asian traditional medicine markets. African pangolins are sourced as bushmeat and perceived to cure diverse ailments when body parts are used in traditional medicine practices. Currently, there is no documentation on cultural uses of Temminck’s ground pangolin throughout this mammal’s distribution range in South Africa. We interviewed 344 community members from seven indigenous tribal communities in four provinces overlapping with the distribution of Smutsia temminckii in South Africa; only 191 respondents (55.5%) had any knowledge of the species, its cultural and/or medicinal uses. Pangolin is highly sought after and held in high regard where this mammal’s body parts, particularly scales, blood and fat, are utilized traditionally for treating various physical ailments and spiritual remedies in rural South African communities. This utilization undoubtedly has a significant impact on the population of this threatened species.
The ‘Lost Caravan’ of Ma’den Ijafen Revisited: Re-appraising Its Cargo of Cowries, a Medieval Global Commodity
Authors: Christie A.C. , Haour A.
Published: August 2018

The lost caravan of Ma’den Ijafen, Mauritania, with its cargo of cowries and brass, is widely discussed in African archaeology, providing significant insight into the nature of long-distance trade in the medieval period. While the brass bars recovered by Théodore Monod during his expedition to the site in 1962 have received considerable attention, the cowrie shells described in his comprehensive publication of the assemblage in 1969 have received much less coverage. This issue was addressed during a recent visit to the Institut Fondamental d’Afrique Noire (IFAN) in Dakar, Senegal in May 2017, when the authors re-examined the shells as part of a wider project which also involved archaeological and environmental surveys in the Maldives, the oft-assumed source of these shells. Examinations of natural history collections of cowries, ethnographic interviews in the Maldives, and environmental surveys in East Africa were also carried out. Drawing on insights from these surveys, we systematically compared the Ma’den Ijafen cowrie assemblage to three others from the Maldives, focussing on four criteria: species composition and diversity, shell size and evidence of modifications. This analysis enabled us to shed new light on the nature of the Ma’den Ijafen cowries and their wider significance to understanding the role of the shells in West African trade networks.
The genus Neoheegeria with a new species from Iran exhibiting wing-dimorphism (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae)
Authors: MINAEI KAMBIZ , FEKRAT LIDA , MOUND LAURENCE
Published: August 2018

Neoheegeria astragali sp.n. is described as the first known member of this genus to exhibit wing-dimorphism. Collected on Astragalus sp. [Fabaceae] in Iran, it is also unique among Neoheegeria species in having the tube unusually short. Neoheegeria sinaitica is recorded from Iran for the first time, and an illustrated key is provided to the five species of Neoheegeria. Wing reduction among Haplothripini is discussed briefly, and it is concluded that most species of Neoheegeria are associated with species of Astragalus.
Taxonomic revision of a darkling beetles genus Anaxius (Tenebrionidae: Pedinini: Helopinina)
Authors: KAMIŃSKI MARCIN J. , SCHOEMAN COLIN S.
Published: August 2018

The genus Anaxius Fåhraeus, 1870 (Tenebrionidae: Helopinina) is revised to include seven Southern African species, four of which are new. A taxonomic treatment of the genus is provided including a morphological study, new species descriptions, keys, illustrations, and notes on species distributions. The following species are treated: Anaxius bloubergensis sp. nov., A. campbellae Koch, 1958, A. limpopoensis sp. nov., A. meletsensis sp. nov., A. obesus Fåhraeus, 1870, A. prozeskyi Koch, 1958, and A. pseudoloensus sp. nov. A lectotype is designated for Anaxius obesus Fåhraeus, 1870 to fix the taxonomic status of this species. Anaxius montiscaerulei Koch, 1958 is considered as a synonym of A. campbellae.
On the taxonomic structure and variability of Macropsidius involutus Dlabola, 1963 (Homoptera: Cicadellidae: Macropsinae)—morphology and calling signal pattern
Authors: TISHECHKIN DMITRI YU.
Published: August 2018

Variability of genitalia shape and male calling signal pattern in Macropsidius involutus from 10 localities in South-eastern Europe (the Crimea, the Lower Volga Region), Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan was investigated. Variability of pygofer processes, penis shape, and signal pattern clearly has a geographic component, but none of these traits clearly supports subdividing this species into different subspecies unequivocally. M. involutus was found at altitudes from 0 up to ca. 2000 m a. s. l. in steppes and deserts in the plains and in steppe zones of mountains. Apparently, different environmental conditions in different parts of its range led to divergence of local populations, but the absence of zoogeographical barriers between them makes possible gene exchange and thus prevents emergence of clearly delineated subspecific taxa.
Composites of Portland cement and fibers of Guadua angustifolia Kunth from Colombia
Authors: Quintero-Dávila Mauricio , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Colorado Henry A
Published: August 2018

The main objective of this work is to study the flexural mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced composites made of ordinary white Portland cement combined with Guadua bamboo from Colombia (known as Guadua angustifolia Kunth or just guadua). Fibers were carefully removed from the stem with a knife in a manual process, and then samples with 0.0, 4.0, and 8.0 wt% of fibers were fabricated. No further treatment was used in order to make the process as simple and inexpensive as possible for applications in the construction and building materials industry. Mechanical and structural characterization was analyzed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Density compressive strength and Weibull distribution graphs were included in this work. The results show that flexural strength increases as the fiber content is increased. They also show a very good impregnation of the cement in the fibers, which validated the use of fiber from the bamboo culm. It is feasible that these composites can be used in the construction and building materials industry on a large scale for noncritical ultimate strength applications because of the low costs associated with processing the fibers.
Exploring the Relationship Among Free-Time Management, Leisure Boredom, and Internet Addiction in Undergraduates in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Wei-Ching
Published: August 2018

Internet addiction has become a significant concern with a variety of negative outcomes among the younger generation in today's modern society and has been investigated and discussed in many studies. Of all the influencing factors, boredom has been proven to be a common trigger for intensive internet use and can result in particularly problematic internet use behavior. A number of studies have indicated the importance of time use as a treatment. Thus, using free time well might serve as a solution to reduce leisure boredom and internet addiction. The current study aims to test a structural model with a sample of university students to investigate the relationships among free-time management, leisure boredom, and internet addiction. The sample consisted of 475 undergraduate students. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed between March 1 and April 30, 2016. Totally, 446 valid questionnaires were received. The structural model was examined after the competent measurement model was processed. Results from the structural model supported that free-time management decreases boredom during leisure time, and boredom during leisure time enhances internet addiction. Furthermore, leisure boredom was revealed to play a role as a distinct mediator between free-time management and internet addiction. Finally, managerial applications and recommendations for future research are suggested based on the research results.
Development of Indicators for Public Health Surveillance of Substance Use and Mental Health
Authors: Hopkins Richard S. , Landen Michael , Toe Megan
Published: August 2018

Substance use and mental health disorders can result in disability, death, and economic cost. In the United States, rates of death from suicide, drug overdose, and chronic liver disease (a marker for alcohol abuse) have been rising for the past 15 years. Good public health surveillance for these disorders, their consequences, and their risk factors is crucially important for their prevention and control, but surveillance has not been conducted consistently in the states. In 2015, the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists convened a workgroup to develop a set of uniformly defined surveillance indicators that could be used by state and local health departments to monitor these disorders and to compare their occurrence in various jurisdictions. This report briefly describes the indicators and outlines the process used to develop them.
Brain space and time in mental disorders: Paradigm shift in biological psychiatry
Authors: Fingelkurts Andrew A , Fingelkurts Alexander A
Published: August 2018

Contemporary psychiatry faces serious challenges because it has failed to incorporate accumulated knowledge from basic neuroscience, neurophilosophy, and brain–mind relation studies. As a consequence, it has limited explanatory power, and effective treatment options are hard to come by. A new conceptual framework for understanding mental health based on underlying neurobiological spatial-temporal mechanisms of mental disorders (already gained by the experimental studies) is beginning to emerge.
The Effect of Relational Satisfaction and Media Synchronicity on Attributions in Computer-Mediated Conflict
Authors: Kashian Nicole , Walther Joseph B.
Published: August 2018

An experiment investigated the effect of relational satisfaction and media synchronicity on dating and married couples’ attributions for their partners’ positive and negative conflict behaviors. Couples completed measures of relational satisfaction, and then engaged in an online conflict discussion using synchronous or asynchronous computer-mediated communication (CMC). After the discussion, posttest questionnaires assessed their attributions for their partners’ conflict behavior. Individuals with greater relational satisfaction tended to ascribe their partners’ positive conflict behavior to internal attributions. Additional findings revealed that satisfied individuals made more internal attributions for their partners’ behavior in asynchronous CMC, rather than synchronous CMC, and satisfied individuals made more internal attributions for their partners’ positive conflict behaviors in asynchronous CMC. Relational satisfaction affects attributions in online conflict, and, contrary to prediction, satisfied individuals appear to benefit more in conflict when using asynchronous CMC.
Positive adjustment to first grade despite divorce: Lessons for school psychologists
Authors: Bezuidenhout Carla , Theron Linda , Fritz Elzette
Published: August 2018

Positive adjustment to first grade is an important milestone in children’s lives. Yet, it is sometimes further complicated by additional challenges such as parental divorce. Drawing on a social ecological perspective we explored how the systems rooted in social ecologies enable children’s resilience when their parents are divorced so as to result in their coping well with adjusting to first grade. We used a single instrumental case study that involved visual methodologies to uncover lessons from the story of a first grader whose parents divorced but who continued to adjust well to first grade. Our findings suggest leverage points for school psychologists (SPs) who wish to champion the resilience of first graders who are adjusting to formal school as well as their parents’ divorce. SPs can intervene by supporting the first grader’s processes of agency and meaning making; by working systemically to engage systems of support; and by mobilizing systems with task-sharing.
Can the choice of building performance simulation tool significantly alter the level of predicted indoor overheating risk in London flats?
Authors: Petrou Giorgos , Mavrogianni Anna , Symonds Phil , Mylona Anastasia , Virk Dane , Raslan Rokia , Davies Mike
Published: August 2018

The accurate prediction of building indoor overheating risk is critical in order to mitigate its possible consequences on occupant health and wellbeing. The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers issued Technical Memorandum 59 (TM59) with the aim of achieving consistency in the modelling processes followed for the prediction of overheating risk in new dwellings. However, as each tool’s prediction may depend on its inherent assumptions, an inter-model comparison procedure was used to assess whether the choice of building performance simulation tool influences the overheating assessment. The predictions of two popular tools, IES VE and EnergyPlus, were compared for nine variations of a naturally ventilated, purpose built, London flat archetype, modelled under the default algorithm options. EnergyPlus predicted a high overheating risk according to TM59 criteria in seven out of the nine model variants, contrary to the low risk of all the IES VE variants. Analysis of heat transfer processes revealed that wind-driven ventilation and surface convection algorithms were the main sources of the observed discrepancies. The choice of simulation tool could thus influence the overheating risk assessment in flats, while the observed discrepancies in the simulation of air and heat transfer could have implications on other modelling applications.

Practical application:Technical Memorandum 59 issued by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers may be widely adopted within the industry to assist the prediction of overheating risk in new dwellings. This work suggests that the choice of building performance simulation tool can greatly influence the predicted overheating risk. Furthermore, the differences identified in the modelling of heat transfer processes could also impact other modelling applications. Following these results, the need for detailed empirical validation studies of naturally ventilated homes has been highlighted.
Mobile recommender systems: Identifying the major concepts
Authors: Pimenidis Elias , Polatidis Nikolaos , Mouratidis Haralambos
Published: August 2018

This article identifies the factors that have an impact on mobile recommender systems. Recommender systems have become a technology that has been widely used by various online applications in situations where there is an information overload problem. Numerous applications such as e-Commerce, video platforms and social networks provide personalised recommendations to their users and this has improved the user experience and vendor revenues. The development of recommender systems has been focused mostly on the proposal of new algorithms that provide more accurate recommendations. However, the use of mobile devices and the rapid growth of the Internet and networking infrastructure have brought the necessity of using mobile recommender systems. The links between web and mobile recommender systems are described along with how the recommendations in mobile environments can be improved. This work is focused on identifying the links between web and mobile recommender systems and to provide solid future directions that aim to lead in a more integrated mobile recommendation domain.
Valuing time over money is associated with greater social connection
Authors: Whillans Ashley V. , Dunn Elizabeth W.
Published: August 2018

Can the trade-offs that people make between time and money shape our social relationships? Across three studies, utilizing self-report ( N = 127; N = 249) and behavioral outcomes ( N = 358), we provide the first evidence that the chronic orientation to prioritize time over money encourages greater investment in daily social interactions. For example, in Study 2, respondents who valued time spent 18% longer socializing with a new peer than respondents who valued money. These findings could not be explained by extraversion (Study 1) or by demographic characteristics such as age, gender, or socioeconomic status (Studies 1 to 3). Together, these studies suggest that valuing time over money facilitates social connection.
Human non-REM sleep and the mean global BOLD signal
Authors: McAvoy Mark P , Tagliazucchi Enzo , Laufs Helmut , Raichle Marcus E
Published: August 2018

A hallmark of non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is the decreased brain activity as measured by global reductions in cerebral blood flow, oxygen metabolism, and glucose metabolism. It is unknown whether the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal undergoes similar changes. Here we show that, in contrast to the decreases in blood flow and metabolism, the mean global BOLD signal increases with sleep depth in a regionally non-uniform manner throughout gray matter. We relate our findings to the circulatory and metabolic processes influencing the BOLD signal and conclude that because oxygen consumption decreases proportionately more than blood flow in sleep, the resulting decrease in paramagnetic deoxyhemoglobin accounts for the increase in mean global BOLD signal.
Regional times to equilibria and their impact on semi-quantification of [18F]AV-1451 uptake
Authors: Heurling Kerstin , Smith Ruben , Strandberg Olof T , Schain Martin , Ohlsson Tomas , Hansson Oskar , Schöll Michael
Published: August 2018

The semi-quantitative estimate standardised uptake value ratios (SUVR) correlate well with specific binding of the tracer expressed as distribution volume ratios (DVR) for the tau positron emission tomography tracer [18F]AV-1451 uptake and are therefore widely used as proxy for tracer binding. With regard to tracer kinetic modelling, there exists a time point when SUVR deviates minimally from DVR, occurring when the specific binding reaches a transient equilibrium . Here, we have investigated whether the time to equilibrium affects the agreement between SUVR and DVR across different brain regions. We show that the time required to reach equilibrium differs across brain regions, resulting in region-specific biases. However, even though the 80–100 min post-injection time window did not show the smallest bias numerically, the disagreement between SUVR and DVR varied least between regions during this time. In conclusion, our findings suggest a regional component to the bias of SUVR related to the time to transient equilibrium of the specific binding. [18F]AV-1451 uptake should consequently be interpreted with some caution when compared across brain regions using this method of quantification. The commonly used time window 80–100 min post-injection shows the most consistent bias across regions and is recommended for semi-quantification of [18F]AV-1451.
Injury Severity: Better Data through Direct Physician Entry of Anatomic Injuries?
Authors: Cushing Brad M. , Teitelbaum Sandra D. , Burman William , Karges David , Bame William
Published: August 2018

The authors compared the injury diagnoses and Injury Severity Scores (ISSs) generated by three data-collection and -coding methods, and examined the times needed and costs associated with the methods. One method involved direct electronic entry of injury data by a physician in the admitting area. Codes, severity scores, and times and costs varied significantly with the different methods, thus suggesting a need for further study of the derivation of injury severity codes.
A Database Coding System for Vascular Procedures
Authors: Harris Kenneth A. , DeRose G. , Jameson W.
Published: August 2018

A coding system was developed to overcome the difficulties encountered in data registry and retrieval from a national audit. In vascular surgery operations are frequently combined, and neither the OHIP fee schedule of codes (Ontario, Canada) nor the ICD-9 system provides sufficient detail for most vascular surgeons to retrieve information for long-term follow-up. However, some wish to record minimal data on their operative procedures. A numeric classification system was developed. A five-digit number is used, the first two digits classifying the operative procedure and anatomic details. Two decimal digits code the classification of operation (e.g., aortic aneurysm, tube graft, aortoiliac, or aortobifemoral) and the final digit may be used as a modifier. “Holes” in the numeric system allow for new operations to be added as they develop. Codes are stored in a database with the following fields: 1) codes; 2) description of operation; 3) translation. The translation field may be modified to permit translation of any existing databases into the system. This database has been distributed with a data registry program free of charge to vascular surgeons in Canada to allow nationwide registry of vascular surgery patients. A numeric code eliminates spelling and abbreviation errors, and can be sufficiently broad-based to allow all surgeons to participate in a nationwide audit.
Automatic Indexing of Abstracts via Natural-language Processing Using a Simple Thesaurus
Authors: Evans David A. , Hersh William R. , Monarch Ira A. , Lefferts Robert G. , Handerson Steven K.
Published: August 2018

The authors describe CLARIT processing as an approach to automatic indexing. They also explore two elements of the indexing process, identifying concepts in text and selecting concepts to reflect the perspective of a domain.
A comprehensive analysis of aerodynamic flow around H-Darrieus rotor with camber-bladed profile
Authors: Souaissa Khaled , Ghiss Moncef , Chrigui Mouldi , Bentaher Hatem , Maalej Aref
Published: August 2018

Improving the H-Darrieus rotor is often followed by the investigation of the influence of the turbine’s parameter design, notably, the aspect ratio, the solidity ( σ), the tip speed ratio, and the airfoil profile shape. In this work, we are interested in both the aerodynamic flows around a straight cambered blade profile and the rotor turbine wake separation of a Darrieus vertical axis wind turbine. The aim of this study is to better understand the evolution of the instantaneous torque and the generated-separated blade vortex during full rotation. Indeed, a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model of a vertical axis wind turbine with a straight cambered blade profile NACA4312 operating over a large range of tip speed ratio is considered. The flows are governed by Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations and the turbulence is modeled with shear stress transport formulations k- ω. This research revealed a high correlation between the evolution of the torque coefficient and the generated-separated blades vortex. In particular, a good correlation between the maximum tip vortices size and the torque coefficient peak is demonstrated.
Musculoskeletal Injury Risk After Sport-Related Concussion: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: McPherson April L. , Nagai Takashi , Webster Kate E. , Hewett Timothy E.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Clinical management of sport-related concussion typically involves a symptom checklist, clinical examination of mental status, and neurocognitive testing. However, recent studies have identified unresolved, impaired sensorimotor function after athletes return to sport. A review and meta-analysis of all current literature regarding risk of subsequent musculoskeletal (MSK) injury after concussion has yet to be published in the medical literature.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To determine the odds that athletes will sustain MSK injury after concussion. It was hypothesized a priori that concussion would increase the risk for MSK injury.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

PubMed and Google Scholar were searched from January 2000 to November 2017. Reference lists of the included studies were manually searched. Two reviewers independently searched the literature for studies published in English that reported MSK injury after athletes returned to play following a concussion. Two independent reviewers completed data extraction using PRISMA guidelines and assessed study quality using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies from the National Institutes of Health. Random effects meta-analyses were used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and incidence rate ratio (IRR) of MSK injury after concussion. The primary study outcome of interest was the number of athletes who sustained MSK injury after concussion.

Results:

Eight studies met inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Meta-analysis results indicated that athletes who had a concussion had 2 times greater odds of sustaining a MSK injury than athletes without concussion (OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.46-3.06). In addition, athletes with concussion demonstrated a higher incidence of MSK injury after return to sport compared with nonconcussed athletes (IRR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.42-1.96). Further analysis showed that both male and female athletes with concussion were at an increased risk of MSK injury compared with their respective same-sex, nonconcussed controls (OR > 1.56, P < .01).

Conclusion:

Based on the evidence of higher risk of MSK injuries after concussion, standard clinical assessments for athletes with concussion should include not only physical symptoms and cognitive function before return to sport but also neuromuscular risk factors associated with increased risk for MSK injuries.