bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astragalus membranaceusInjection Suppresses Production of Interleukin-6 by Activating Autophagy through the AMPK-mTOR Pathway in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Macrophages
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Liang Taigang , Yang Wanxia , Zhang Lanfang , Wu Shuting , Yan Chaoqun , Li Qingshan
Published: July 2020

Astragalus membranaceus(AM), used in traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown to enhance immune functions, and recently, its anti-inflammatory effects were identified. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. Most studies have shown that autophagy might be involved in the immune response of the body, including inflammation. Here, we developed an inflammatory model by stimulating macrophages with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to explore the anti-inflammatory effect and mechanisms of AM injection from the perspective of the regulation of autophagy. Immunoblot, immunofluorescence, and ELISA were used to determine the effects of AM injection on the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and alterations of autophagy markers. It was found that AM injection reduced the expression of IL-6 in LPS-stimulated macrophages and reversed the LPS-induced inhibition of cellular autophagy. After treatment with inhibitors of signaling pathways, it was shown that LPS downregulated autophagy and upregulated the production of IL-6 in macrophages via the protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. AM injection reversed the effects of LPS by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) instead of inhibiting Akt. These results were further confirmed by testing activators and siRNA silencing of AMPK. Hence, these 2 distinct signaling molecules appear to exert opposite effects on mTOR, which integrates information from multiple upstream signaling pathways, negatively regulating autophagy. In addition, we demonstrated that autophagy might play a key role in regulating the production of IL-6 by testing activators and inhibitors of autophagy and siRNA silencing ofATG5. These findings showed that AM injection might enhance autophagy by activating AMPK and might further play a repressive effect on the LPS-stimulated expression of IL-6. This study explored the relationship between autophagy, signaling pathways, and the production of inflammatory factors in a model of endotoxin infection and treatment with AM injection.
Oxygen Vacancy-Mediated Interfacial Charge Transfer of Au/ZnO Schottky Heterojunctions for Enhanced UV Photodegradation
Authors: Shao Zhufeng , Jia Hui , Zhang Yufeng , Yang Xiujuan , Zhong Min , Chang Chun
Published: July 2020

We intend to report an interesting phenomenon related to the different interfacial transfer processes between ellipsoidal-like ZnO (E-ZnO) and rod-like ZnO (R-ZnO) nanoheterojunctions witness by the nanosecond time-resolved transient photoluminescence (NTRT-PL) spectra. Fristly, E-ZnO and R-ZnO nanoarchitectures were fabricated via facilitating the electrochemical route; and then, they decorated it with dispersed Au nanoparticles (NPs) by the methods of ion-sputtering deposition, constituting Au/E-ZnO and Au/R-ZnO Schottky-heterojunction nanocomplex, which is characterized by SEM, XRD, Raman analysis, and UV-vis absorption spectra. Steady-state photoluminescence and NTRT-PL spectra of as-fabricated Au/E-ZnO and Au/R-ZnO nanocomposites were probed for interfacial charge transfer process under 266 nm femtosecond (fs) light irradiation. Simultaneously, a distinct diversification for the NTRT-PL spectra is observed, closely associating with oxygen vacancies (Vo), which is confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra. Furthermore, Au NPs act as an “annular bridge” and “transit depot” for interfacial charge transfer through local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect and Schottky barrier, respectively, which is identified by NTRT-PL and time-resolved PL (TRPL) decay spectrum. Moreover, this mechanism is responsible for the enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) performances of methyl orange (MO) photodegradation under UV light irradiation.
Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms: Uses, Challenges, Threats, and Prospects
Authors: Ayanda Opeyemi I. , Ajayi Tolulope , Asuwaju Femi P.
Published: July 2020

Water hyacinths pose serious challenges to humanity and the environment. Considering the enormity of the menace associated with the growth and spread of the plant and the difficulty in achieving a single, generally acceptable control method, it is becoming increasingly imperative to explore the potentials of the plant. New water hyacinth-related articles are regularly being published. Recently published articles about the plant were accessed, and the information in these articles is presented in the context of the pros and cons of the plant. Some of the benefits that can be derived from the plant include biogas and biofuel production, medicinal functions, vermicomposting, compost production, and bioremediation. However, clogging of waterways, obstruction of water transportation, and fishing activities; breeding grounds for pests and diseases; and reduction of water quality, loss of biodiversity, and economic downturn in areas invaded by the plant are problems associated with it. The peculiarity in the invasiveness of each situation should determine whether or not the growth of the plant is a problem, especially if the opportunity to harness the potentials of the plant exists. There are three major methods for controlling the plants when control becomes inevitable: mechanical, chemical, and biological. To achieve the best control, integrating two or more control methods is advised.
OEDDBOS: An Efficient Data Distributing Strategy with Energy Saving in Sensor-Cloud Systems
Authors: Zhao Qifei , Wang Gaocai , Peng Ying , Lu Yuting
Published: July 2020

Sensor-cloud is a developing technology and popular paradigm for various applications. It integrates wireless sensor into a cloud computing environment. On the one hand, the cloud offers extensive data storage and analytical and processing capabilities not available in sensor nodes. On the other hand, data distribution (such as time synchronization and configuration files) is always an important topic in such sensor-cloud systems, which leads to a rapid increase in energy consumption by sensors. In this paper, we aim to reduce the energy consumption of data dissemination in sensor-cloud systems and study the optimization of energy consumption with time-varying channel quality when multiple nodes use the same channel to transmit data. Suppose that there is a certain probability that the nodes send data for competing channel. And then, they decide to distribute data in terms of channel quality for saving energy after getting the channel successfully whether or not. Firstly, we construct the maximization problem of average energy efficiency for distributing data with delay demand. Then, this maximization problem transferred an optimal stopping problem which generates the optimal stopping rule. At last, the thresholds of the optimal transmission rate in each period are solved by using the optimal stopping theory, and the optimal energy efficiency for data distribution is achieved. Simulation results indicate that the strategy proposed in this paper can to some extent improve average energy efficiency and delivery ratio and enhance energy optimization effect and network performance compared with other strategies.
Recommendation Algorithm in Double-Layer Network Based on Vector Dynamic Evolution Clustering and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Chen Jianrui , Wang Zhihui , Zhu Tingting , Rosas Fernando E.
Published: July 2020

The purpose of recommendation systems is to help users find effective information quickly and conveniently and also to present the items that users are interested in. While the literature of recommendation algorithms is vast, most collaborative filtering recommendation approaches attain low recommendation accuracies and are also unable to track temporal changes of preferences. Additionally, previous differential clustering evolution processes relied on a single-layer network and used a single scalar quantity to characterise the status values of users and items. To address these limitations, this paper proposes an effective collaborative filtering recommendation algorithm based on a double-layer network. This algorithm is capable of fully exploring dynamical changes of user preference over time and integrates the user and item layers via an attention mechanism to build a double-layer network model. Experiments on Movielens, CiaoDVD, and Filmtrust datasets verify the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm. Experimental results show that our proposed algorithm can attain a better performance than other state-of-the-art algorithms.
Evolutionary Game Model of Integrating Health and Care Services for Elder People
Authors: Chen Tingqiang , Pan Jinnan , He Yuanping , Wang Jining
Published: July 2020

With the background of aging, ensuring the deep integration of pension and medical services and effectively integrating pension resources and medical resources are hot issues that must be addressed in the current mode of integrating health and care services for older people. Thus, we use game theory to construct the utility model of resource allocation between pension and medical institutions. We apply this model to explore how pension institutions and medical institutions invest resources into the integration of health and care services, analysis of influencing factors, and conducting incentive mechanism research by using MATLAB 2016b software. Through theoretical deduction and experimental analysis, the following conclusions are drawn. First, the income distribution coefficient of pension institutions is positively correlated with the level of labor input, and its growth rate has a marginal diminishing effect on the level of labor. Second, in early investment, the income distribution coefficient of pension institutions is positively correlated with fixed asset investment regardless of the different effort coefficients between medical institutions and pension institutions. With a high income distribution coefficient, pension institutions are negatively correlated and marginally decrease. Third, in early investment, the income distribution coefficient of pension institutions is positively correlated with medical institutions’ labor input level. When the income distribution coefficient of pension institutions reaches a certain value, it is negatively correlated with the labor input level of medical institutions, thereby showing a marginal diminishing effect.
Prevalence and Practice of Unused and Expired Medicine—A Community‐Based Study among Saudi Adults in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Wajid Syed , Siddiqui Nasir A. , Mothana Ramzi A. , Samreen Sana
Published: July 2020

Purpose. The objective of the current study was to determine the prevalence and practice of unused and expired medicine among Saudi adults. Subjects and Methods. The study used cross‐sectional web‐based design to collect the data, over a period of 4 months among people who are living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Results. A total of 337 questionnaires were obtained during the study period. The majority of respondents were university graduates n = 251 (74.7%). The prevalence of unused medicine was n = 301 (89.3%). The most commonly used drugs were nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs n = 272 (80.7%) and antibiotics n = 164 (48.7%). Of the participants, 186 (55.2%) checked the expiry date of the medicine before they purchase. Most of them n = 305 (90.5%) obtained medicine through prescription. About n = 219 (65%) of them keep the medicine until it expired; 48.1% throw away in the household garbage while only 18 (5.4%) of the respondents said to give it back to the medical store. Conclusion. The study revealed a high prevalence of unused medications among Saudi community. However, the disposable practice among the Saudi community was inadequate. Increasing awareness through education programs about proper disposable guidelines is necessary for controlling the medication wastage.
Local Uniform Kadec-Klee Property (LUKK) and Modulus of (LUKK)
Authors: Cui Yunan , Wang Xiaoxia
Published: July 2020

A new geometry property and two new moduli are introduced in Banach space. First, the concept of local uniform Kadec-Klee property (LUKK) is introduced and the implication relationships between LUKK and local near uniform convexity LNUC, uniformly Kadec-Klee (UKK), (H) are investigated in Banach space. Furthermore, the modulus PXLε of (LUKK) and the modulus ΔXLε of LNUC are introduced and the relationship of size between PXLε and ΔXLε is also investigated in Banach space. Finally, several formulas for PXLε are calculated in classical Banach space lp.
In Vitro and In Vivo Comparison of Changes in Antibiotics Susceptibility of E. coli and Chicken’s Intestinal Flora after Exposure to Amoxicillin or Thymol
Authors: Hriouech Soukayna , Akhmouch Ahmed A. , Tanghort Mariam , Chefchaou Hanane , Mzabi Aouatef , Chami Najat , Remmal Adnane
Published: July 2020

This study aims at verifying, in vitro, the extent to which the use of amoxicillin or thymol induces the selection of resistant bacteria and at evaluating in vivo their effects on the development of antimicrobial resistance in the intestinal flora of poultry. E. coli strain was subcultured on agar plates containing increasing concentrations of either amoxicillin or thymol. Thereafter, minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of thymol, amoxicillin, and two other antibiotics, tylosin and colistin, were determined using the microdilution method. Groups of chicks were subjected to a 2-week regime of either amoxicillin or thymol added to their drinking water. During the treatment with either thymol or amoxicillin, the total aerobic mesophilic flora (TAMF) was counted on thymol-gradient plates or amoxicillin-gradient plates and the MICs of antibiotics and thymol for E. coli isolates were determined. The in vitro test showed that for E. coli, which had been serially subcultured on increasing concentrations of amoxicillin, a 32-fold increase in MIC values for amoxicillin and a 4-fold increase for colistin and tylosin were noted. However, the MIC of thymol for this strain remained constant. For the E. coli, which had been serially subcultured on increasing concentrations of thymol, no change in the MIC values for antibiotics and thymol was observed. The in vivo test confirmed the in vitro one. It demonstrated that exposure to amoxicillin induced a selection of antimicrobial resistance in TAMF and intestinal E. coli, whereas exposure to thymol did not. The results showed that the group receiving thymol had a lower consumption index compared to the other groups. This study demonstrates the feasibility of this natural product as an alternative solution to the current use of antibiotics in poultry farming.
In Vitro Control ofPhytophthora infestansandAlternaria solaniUsing Crude Extracts and Essential Oils from Selected Plants
Authors: Mugao Lydia G. , Muturi Phyllis W. , Gichimu Bernard M. , Njoroge Ezekiel K.
Published: July 2020

Tomato production is constrained by fungal diseases especially the early and late blight caused byAlternaria solaniandPhytophthora infestans, respectively. Control of the two diseases is usually by use of synthetic fungicides which have a long residue effect and also contribute to environmental pollution. Innovative use of biocontrols may offer an eco-friendly and more sustainable solution. This study tested the in vitro efficacy of crude extracts and essential oils of ginger, garlic, tick berry, and Mexican marigold in inhibition of radial growth ofA. solaniandP. infestans. Extraction of the crude extracts was done using distilled water, ethanol, and methanol solvents, while essential oils were extracted using the dry steam distillation method. The extracts and essential oils were used to amend the growth media of the test pathogens before introducing the precultured pathogens. Sterile distilled water and synthetic fungicide, Ridomil Gold®, were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Fungal growth inhibition was determined by measuring the radial growth of the test pathogens. Both the crude extracts and the essential oils portrayed some efficacy against the test pathogens. Garlic crude extracts were found to be the most effective, while ethanol was the most suitable extraction solvent. Essential oils were more effective in restricting the pathogen growth than crude extracts. Ginger and garlic oil was found to be as effective as the synthetic fungicide, and thus it was concluded that the two plants have strong antifungal properties with high potential of being utilized as biofungicides. However, effective utilization of these products in farmers’ fields may require industrial formulation to improve their efficiency.
Research on Privacy Security Risk Assessment Method of Mobile Commerce Based on Information Entropy and Markov
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhao Kun , Yang Ming , Gao Tilei , Xie Wanyu
Published: July 2020

To obtain precise personalized services in mobile commerce, the users have to disclose their personal information to the operator, which constitutes a potential threat to their privacy security. In this paper, a mobile commerce privacy security risk assessment model is established based on information entropy and Markov chain, and effective security risk measurement, and assessment method is put forward. Our method can provide accurate and quantitative results in assessing privacy disclosure risk to guide the users’ selection of safe mobile commerce applications and protect their privacy security.
Low‐Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Ameliorates the Overactive Bladder: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Yung-Chin , Chuang Shu-Mien , Lin Kun-Ling , Chen Wei-Chiao , Lu Jian-He , Chueh Kuang-Shun , Shen Mei-Chen , Liu Li-Wen , Long Cheng-Yu , Juan Yung-Shun
Published: July 2020

Objective. In the present clinical trial, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of low‐intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LiESWT) on overactive bladder (OAB). Methods. Female subjects with ages of 20‐75 years and who have been clinically diagnosed with OAB were included in the study. The LiESWT (DUOLITH SD1 T‐TOP, AG) applicator was placed on the suprapubic skin area and applied with an intensity of 0.25 mJ/mm2, 3000 pulses, and 3 pulses/second. To assess the therapeutic efficacy, all subjects were required to complete the validated OAB symptoms and life bothersome questionnaires, 3‐day urinary diary, uroflowmetry, and post‐voided residual urine (PVR) measurement at 4 weeks of LiESWT (W4), 8 weeks of LiESWT (W8), 1‐month follow‐up (F1), and 3‐month follow‐up (F3) after LiESWT. Result. 82 subjects with the mean age of 56.5 ± 1.2 years were enrolled. The questionnaire scores were significantly improved at W4, W8, F1, and F3 as compared to baseline data (W0). At W8, the mean values of functional bladder capacity were meaningfully increased. According to the 3‐day urinary diary, daytime frequency, urgency, and nocturia were significantly decreased. The uroflowmetry results showed that the mean voided urine volume and the maximal flow rate (Qmax) were noticeably increased. PVR volume was also significantly decreased. Conclusions. The data demonstrated that 8‐week LiESWT ameliorated the OAB symptoms, promoted the uroflow parameters, and improved the quality of life (QoL) in OAB patients, suggesting that LiESWT might serve as an alternative noninvasive therapy for OAB.
A Weibull Distribution: Flow and Heat Transfer of Nanofluids Containing Carbon Nanotubes with Radiation and Velocity Slip Effects
Authors: Asshaari Izamarlina , Jedi Alias , Pati Kafi Dano
Published: July 2020

In this study, the Tiwari and Das model is numerically studied, in case of a moving plate containing both single-walled and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs and MWCNTs, respectively), in the presence of thermal radiation and the slip effect. Employing the similarity transformation, a set of 2nd-order partial differential equations (which are used to model the flow and heat transfer) are solved numerically using the boundary value problem with 4th-order accuracy (BVP4C) method. The effects of related parameters, such as the volume fraction of nanoparticles, moving, slip, and radiation parameter on the heat transfer performance are analysed and discussed. Results indicate that a unique solution was placed when the plate travels in assisting flow conditions. Additionally, as the nanoparticle volume fraction (φ) rises at φ = 0.2, the skin friction and heat transfer rate decrease. It is also observed that when the slip parameter (β) increases at β = 0.4, the skin friction decreases, whereas the heat transfer rate increases. Meanwhile, the heat transfer rate decreases when the thermal radiation (NR) increases to 0.7. Moreover, it is found that the SWCNTs are more efficient when the skin friction coefficient and the Nusselt number are considered. It is found that the Weibull distribution is more suitable in fitting the skin friction data.
Fetal Cardiac Intervention for Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum: International Fetal Cardiac Intervention Registry
Authors: Hogan Whitnee J. , Grinenco Sofia , Armstrong Aimee , Devlieger Roland , Dangel Joanna , Ferrer Queralt , Frommelt Michele , Galindo Alberto , Gardiner Helena , Gelehrter Sarah , Herberg Ulrike , Howley Lisa , Jaeggi Edgar , Miranda Joana , Morris Shaine A. , Oepkes Dick , Pedra Simone , Peterson Renuka , Sholler Gary , Simpson John , Strainic James , Vigneswarran Trisha V. , Wacker-Gussmann Annette , Moon-Grady Anita J. ,   for the IFCIR Participants
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Invasive fetal cardiac intervention (FCI) for pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PAIVS) and critical pulmonary stenosis (PS) has been performed with small single-institution series reporting technical and physiological success. We present the first multicenter experience. Objectives: Describe fetal and maternal characteristics of those being evaluated for FCI, including pregnancy/neonatal outcome data using the International Fetal Cardiac Intervention Registry (IFCIR). Methods: We queried the IFCIR for PAIVS/PS cases evaluated from January 2001 to April 2018 and reviewed maternal/fetal characteristics, procedural details, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Data were analyzed using standard descriptive statistics. Results: Of the 84 maternal/fetal dyads in the registry, 58 underwent pulmonary valvuloplasty at a median gestational age of 26.1 (21.9–31.0) weeks. Characteristics of fetuses undergoing FCI varied in terms of tricuspid valve (TV) size, TV regurgitation, and pulmonary valve patency. There were fetal complications in 55% of cases, including 7 deaths and 2 delayed fetal losses. Among those who underwent successful FCI, the absolute measurement of the TV increased by 0.32 (±0.17) mm/week from intervention to birth. Among 60 liveborn with known outcome, there was a higher percentage having a biventricular circulation following successful FCI (87 vs. 43%). Conclusions: Our data suggest a possible benefit to fetal therapy for PAIVS/PS, though rates of technically unsuccessful procedures and procedure-related complications, including fetal loss were substantial. FCI criteria are extremely variable, making direct comparison to nonintervention patients challenging and potentially biased. More uniform FCI criteria for fetuses with PAIVS/PS are needed to avoid unnecessary procedures, expose only fetuses most likely to sustain a benefit, and to enable comparisons to be made with nonintervention patients.
New Technologies in Clinical Trials in Corneal Diseases and Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: Review from the European Vision Institute Special Interest Focus Group Meeting
Authors: Schlereth Simona L. , Hos Deniz , Matthaei Mario , Hamrah Pedram , Schmetterer Leopold , O’Leary Olivia , Ullmer Christoph , Horstmann Jens , Bock Felix , Wacker Katrin , Schröder Hannes , Notara Maria , Haagdorens Michel , Nuijts Rudy M.M.A. , Dunker Suryan L. , Dickman Mor M. , Fauser Sascha , Scholl Hendrik P.N. , Wheeler-Schilling Thomas , Cursiefen Claus
Published: July 2020

To discuss and evaluate new technologies for a better diagnosis of corneal diseases and limbal stem cell deficiency, the outcomes of a consensus process within the European Vision Institute (and of a workshop at the University of Cologne) are outlined. Various technologies are presented and analyzed for their potential clinical use also in defining new end points in clinical trials. The disease areas which are discussed comprise dry eye and ocular surface inflammation, imaging, and corneal neovascularization and corneal grafting/stem cell and cell transplantation. The unmet needs in the abovementioned disease areas are discussed, and realistically achievable new technologies for better diagnosis and use in clinical trials are outlined. To sum up, it can be said that there are several new technologies that can improve current diagnostics in the field of ophthalmology in the near future and will have impact on clinical trial end point design.
Modified Ventricular Global Function Index Correlates With Exercise Capacity in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Ta Hieu T. , Critser Paul J. , Alsaied Tarek , Germann Joshua , Powell Adam W. , Redington Andrew N. , Tretter Justin T.
Published: July 2020

Background

Cardiac MRI (CMR) derived ventricular global function index (GFI), a ratio of stroke volume to the sum of mean ventricular cavity and myocardial volumes, has demonstrated improved prediction of clinical outcomes in adults with atherosclerotic disease over ejection fraction. We sought to assess CMR derived GFI and a novel modification that accounts for unique loading conditions in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF) and determine its correlation with exercise performance.

Methods and Results

Seventy‐five patients with rTOF who underwent CMR were identified. Clinical variables were recorded and biventricular GFI calculated. A right ventricular (RV) effective GFI (eGFI) was derived by incorporating effective stroke volume. Thirty‐five pediatric patients were matched with 29 age‐matched healthy controls. Twenty‐five patients completed cardiopulmonary exercise tests within 6 months of CMR. Stepwise regression models were used to determine univariate and multivariable predictors of indexed and percent predicted peak VO
2
. Median age at CMR was 20 years (interquartile range, 13–28). Pediatric rTOF patients had lower RV eGFI (
P
< 0.001), RV ejection fraction (
P
=0.002), but higher indexed RV end‐diastolic and end‐systolic volumes (
P
< 0.001,
P
< 0.001) compared with controls. Univariate analysis demonstrated a correlation between indexed peak VO
2
with RV eGFI (
R
2
=0.32,
P
=0.004), but with neither RVGFI, RV ejection fraction, indexed RV volumes nor RV mass. RV eGFI remained significantly associated with indexed peak VO
2
during multivariable modeling.

Conclusions

Reduced RV eGFI was associated with reduced exercise capacity in rTOF patients, while RV GFI, RV ejection fraction, indexed RV volumes and mass were not. Our modification of the GFI, RV eGFI, may be a valuable non‐invasive marker of cardiac function in rTOF.
A new species of Hymenodictyon (Rubiaceae, Cinchonoideae) from Namibia

Authors: SWANEPOEL WESSEL , VAN JAARSVELD ERNST J.
Published: July 2020

Hymenodictyon kaokoensis, here described as a new species, has a restricted range and is only known from the mountains along the Kunene River in the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism, northwestern Namibia. It is represented by shrubs or small trees growing in rocky places, on mountain slopes and river valleys. Diagnostic characters for H. kaokoensis include the thickset semi-succulent older stems, echinate (scabrid when dry) leaves that turn stramineous before falling, simple racemose, erect inflorescences, and ellipsoid fruits with round or elongated prominent lenticels. A comparison of some of the more prominent morphological features to differentiate between H. kaokoensis and its possible nearest relatives, H. floribundum and H. parvifolium, are provided. Based on IUCN Red List categories and criteria, a conservation assessment of Vulnerable (VU D1 & D2) is recommended for the new species.
The Homolidae of the Hawaiian Islands, with notes on the taxonomy of Moloha major (Kubo, 1936) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: NG PETER K. L. , FORGES BERTRAND RICHER DE , MARTIN JOEL W.
Published: July 2020

Based partly on a collection of homolid crabs captured from baited traps in deep waters off French Frigate Shoals, Northwest Hawaiian Islands, in October 2006, the Hawaiian species of the family Homolidae are reviewed. Known genera and species in the Hawaiian Islands now include two species of Homola (H. orientalis and H. dickinsoni), two species of Lamoha (L. williamsi and L. personata), and five genera that are each represented by a single species (Paramola japonica, Moloha major, Yaldwynopsis hawaiiana, Latreillopsis okala, and Homologenus namakae). Seven of the 14 currently recognized genera of the Homolidae and nine of the 74 known species are now known from Hawaiian waters. Colour notes are included for the first time for two species (H. dickinsoni and Y. hawaiiana). A key to the family Homolidae in Hawaiian waters is included.
Redescriptions, new synonymy, new combination and new records of Bacis Dejean, 1836 and Oligocorynus Dejean, 1876 (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Erotylinae) for Colombia
Authors: LOPES PETERSON LÁSARO , GASCA-ÁLVAREZ HÉCTOR JAIME , SKELLEY PAUL E.
Published: July 2020

Bacis nigropictus Crotch, 1876 and Phricobacis flavomaculatus Mader, 1943 are redescribed. Redescriptions are provided with illustrations of diagnostic characters. Based upon the study of type material, Zonarius limbatus Kuhnt, 1910 is considered a new synonym of B. nigropictus. A lectotype is designated for Zonarius limbatus Kuhnt, 1910. Based on character analyses, Phricobacis flavomaculatus is here transferred to the genus Oligocorynus Dejean, 1836, becoming Oligocorynus flavomaculatus (Mader), new combination. Bacis nigropictus is newly listed for Colombia and O. flavomaculatus is considered new country record from Colombia.
State Dependency and the Limits of Middle Class Support for Democracy
Authors: Rosenfeld Bryn
Published: July 2020

Scholars have long viewed the middle class as an agent of democratization. This article provides the first rigorous cross-national analysis of middle class regime preferences, systematically investigating the importance of an authoritarian state’s economic relationship with the middle class. Using detailed survey data on individual employment histories from 27 post-communist countries, I show that, under autocracy, state-sector careers diminish support for democracy, especially among middle class professionals. The results are robust to changes in the measurement of both the middle class and democracy support. I also show that neither selection nor response bias, redistributive preferences, communist socialization, or transition experiences can explain the results. The findings imply that a state-supported middle class may, in fact, delay democratization.
What’s Driving Me? Exploration and Validation of a Hierarchical Personality Model for Trust in Automated Driving
Authors: Kraus Johannes , Scholz David , Baumann Martin
Published: July 2020

Objective

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation of personality traits related to trust in automated vehicles. A hierarchical personality model based on Mowen’s (2000) 3M model is explored in a first and replicated in a second study.

Background

Trust in automation is established in a complex psychological process involving user-, system- and situation-related variables. In this process, personality traits have been viewed as an important source of variance.

Method

Dispositional variables on three levels were included in an exploratory, hierarchical personality model (full model) of dynamic learned trust in automation, which was refined on the basis of structural equation modeling carried out in Study 1 (final model). Study 2 replicated the final model in an independent sample.

Results

In both studies, the personality model showed a good fit and explained a large proportion of variance in trust in automation. The combined evidence supports the role of extraversion, neuroticism, and self-esteem at the elemental level; affinity for technology and dispositional interpersonal trust at the situational level; and propensity to trust in automation and a priori acceptability of automated driving at the surface level in the prediction of trust in automation.

Conclusion

Findings confirm that personality plays a substantial role in trust formation and provide evidence of the involvement of user dispositions not previously investigated in relation to trust in automation: self-esteem, dispositional interpersonal trust, and affinity for technology.

Application

Implications for personalization of information campaigns, driver training, and user interfaces for trust calibration in automated driving are discussed.
Are outside directors on the small and medium-sized enterprise board always beneficial? Disclosure of firm-specific information in board-management relations as the missing mechanism
Authors: Uhlaner Lorraine , Massis Alfredo de , Jorissen Ann , Du Yan
Published: July 2020

In board governance literature and practice, the presence of outside directors is presumed to have a beneficial effect on board effectiveness and firm performance. This study challenges this prevailing view by exploring the boundary conditions and intermediate mechanism preventing the potential benefits of outside directors. Our results reveal that reality is more complex than previously assumed. Using unique data from a sample of 561 Belgian small and medium-sized enterprises, we find that the presence of outside directors has a neutral or even negative effect under certain boundary conditions on board service engagement in the small and medium-sized enterprises context. Family ownership control and infrequent board meetings are two important contingencies that reduce management’s propensity to disclose firm-specific information to the board in the presence of outside directors. The disclosure of such information, in turn, serves as a critical mechanism to offset firm-specific information asymmetry, associated with better board service engagement and (indirectly) enhanced firm performance. Based on our study, we articulate new theoretical insights for understanding board governance in small and medium-sized enterprises, which integrate existing board governance theories with the dominant coalition context, serving as a springboard for future board governance research.
“The Only Thing New is the Cameras”: A Study of U.S. College Students’ Perceptions of Police Violence on Social Media
Authors: Campbell Felicia , Valera Pamela
Published: July 2020

The present study explored the impact of publicized incidents of police violence on racially underrepresented college students in the U.S. Approximately 134 college students at various colleges and universities in the U.S. completed a questionnaire that examined their engagement with police brutality videos, reactions about police killings of unarmed Black men (and boys), their encounters with police, and perceptions toward the issue of police violence. The majority of participants were students of color, from the middle to high socioeconomic backgrounds and attended private and public institutions of higher education. The main findings included: (1) social media as a medium to learn about incidents of police violence; (2) students displayed symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (i.e., anger, sadness, and fear) after viewing the videos; and (3) student’s race affected how they viewed police violence in social media. These findings reflect that witnessing publicized police killings of unarmed Black men (and boys) is traumatic for college students and contributes to anxiety and fear for future police encounters.
Africana Studies Catalytic Consciousness (ASCC) Theory: A Cosmic Understanding of the Impact of Africana Studies
Authors: McDougal Serie
Published: July 2020

Colonization, enslavement, and institutionalized oppression have disrupted the relationship between the educational experiences of Black students and the fate of African/Black communities. Research has shown that Africana studies has demonstrated the capacity to realign the education of Black students in higher education, leading to the advancement of communities of African descent. This analysis aims to present Africana studies catalytic consciousness theory as a framework for determining the effects of taking Africana studies classes on students who self-identify as being of African descent on college and university campuses—particularly at institutions where they are underrepresented. The main elements of the effects of Africana studies are illustrated through the lens of the Dagara cosmic wheel and its elements: fire, water, earth, mineral/stone, and nature/vegetation.
Carbon Footprinting and Pricing Under Climate Concerns
Authors: Bertini Marco , Buehler Stefan , Halbheer Daniel , Lehmann Donald R.
Published: July 2020

This article studies how organizations should design a product by choosing the carbon footprint and price in a market with climate concerns. The authors develop a model and first show how the cost and demand effects of reducing the product carbon footprint determine the profit-maximizing product design. They find that stronger climate concerns reduce the product carbon footprint, demand, the overall corporate carbon footprint and profit, but have an ambiguous impact on price. Next, the authors establish that offsetting carbon emissions can create a win-win outcome for the firm and the climate if the cost of compensation is sufficiently low. Going net zero leads to a win for society if the cost of offsetting is sufficiently low compared to the social cost of pollution created by the corporate carbon footprint. Third, the authors show how regulation in the form of a cap-and-trade scheme or a carbon tax affects product design, firm profitability, and green technology adoption. Finally, the authors extend the analysis to a competitive scenario and show that going net zero creates a win-win-win outcome for the firm, the climate, and society if the offset technology is sufficiently effective.
A security dividend: Peacekeeping and maternal health outcomes and access
Authors: Gizelis Theodora-Ismene , Cao Xun
Published: July 2020

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 highlights the distinct needs of women in security and well-being. Few studies explore how peacekeeping affects women’s access to health and education. Yet, women’s access to public services such as health is a form of gender inequality in post-conflict countries leading to unbalanced distribution of resources. We argue that peacekeeping operations (PKOs) have both a direct and an important indirect impact on maternal health and women’s well-being. First, peacekeeping can have a direct effect by providing medical and training facilities. Second, peacekeeping has an indirect effect as improvement in the overall level of security facilitates women’s access to medical services and education. We evaluate our argument by combining evidence from different levels of analysis. First, we use a difference-in-difference analysis of 45 African countries with data between 1990 and 2013, comparing the changes in maternal mortality rates (MMR) for countries with and without PKOs. Second, we look at within-country variations across areas with and without UN peacekeeping deployment in three countries with integrative PKOs, combining geo-coded peacekeeping data with individual data on maternal health and education from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte D’Ivoire, and Liberia. We find strong empirical support for a positive relationship between peacekeeping presence and maternal health outcomes and access to services.
“Did You Ever Fight Back?” Jurors’ Questions to Children Testifying in Criminal Trials About Alleged Sexual Abuse
Authors: St. George Suzanne , Garcia-Johnson Anastacia , Denne Emily , Stolzenberg Stacia N.
Published: July 2020

The current study examined jurors’ questions to children in criminal trials assessing children’s allegations of sexual abuse, demonstrating a new avenue for studying how jurors think about, respond to, and assess evidence. We used qualitative content analysis to examine jurors’ questions to 134, 5- to 17-year-olds alleging sexual abuse in criminal trial testimonies. Five themes emerged: abuse interactions, contextual details of abuse, children’s reactions to abuse, children’s (delayed) disclosure, and case background details. Jurors often ask about abuse dynamics, the context surrounding abuse, and children’s disclosure processes, reflecting common misconceptions about child sexual abuse (CSA), such as whether it is credible to delay disclosure or maintain contact with an alleged perpetrator. This study improves our understanding of how jurors understand and evaluate children’s reports of alleged CSA, suggesting that jurors may struggle to understand children’s reluctance.
Examining Patterns of Interpersonal Violence, Structural and Social Exclusion, Resilience, and Arrest among Young Transgender Women
Authors: Hereth Jane , Garthe Rachel C. , Garofalo Robert , Reisner Sari L. , Mimiaga Matthew J. , Kuhns Lisa M.
Published: July 2020

Young transgender women aged 16–29 years experience high rates of carceral involvement, warranting greater inclusion of this community within decarceration research and practice. The present study investigates patterns of violence, exclusion, resilience, and arrest among a sample of 298 transgender women aged 16–29 years in Chicago, Illinois, and Boston, MA. Women in the sample reported high rates of arrest, violence, and exclusion. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify classes with similar response patterns to items assessing violence, exclusion, resilience, and arrest. A three-class model was selected to best represent the data, including: (a) “High Violence and Exclusion/High Arrest”; (b) “Low Arrest”; and (c) “Moderate Violence and Exclusion/High Arrest.” Race and perceived gender expression significantly predicted class membership. Findings illustrate the heterogeneity of young transgender women’s experiences, suggesting that a variety of tailored decarceration program and policy interventions are required to meet the differing needs of young transgender women.
Can Tonsillar Retractor–Induced Tongue Edema Be a New Complication in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Tonsillectomy Detected by Ultrasonography? A Prospective, Case-Controlled, Observational Study
Authors: Onal Merih , Colpan Bahar , Elsurer Cagdas , Bozkurt Mete Kaan , Ozturk Mehmet , Onal Ozkan , Turan Alparslan
Published: July 2020

Background:

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures in pediatric patients. The tonsillar retractor, which is routinely used during a tonsillectomy, applies high pressure to the patient’s tongue and can lead to various complications.

Aims:

This study aimed to explore tongue edema induced by the pressure applied by tonsillar retractor, using ultrasonography in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy surgeries.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty-one patients were included in the study. The tonsillectomy group included 31 patients who underwent tonsillectomy surgery, while the control group included 30 patients who underwent inguinal hernia and circumcision surgery. Submental coronal plane ultrasonography examinations of the tongue were performed twice for each patient. In the tonsillectomy group, the first examination of tongue area (TA1) was done immediately after intubation but before the placement of tonsillar retractor. The second examination (TA2) was done at the end of the tonsillectomy surgery after the removal of the tonsillar retractor but before extubation. In the control group, the first examination (TA1) was done immediately after intubation, whereas the second examination (TA2) was done at the end of the surgery before extubation. These results were compared with those for the control group.

Results:

Groups were similar in terms of demographics and intubation duration. Groups did not significantly differ in terms of TA1 ( P = .212), but they significantly differed in terms of TA2 ( P = .000). They also significantly differed in terms of tongue edema defined as TA2 − TA1 ( P = .000).

Conclusions and Significance:

Tonsillar retractor does cause tongue edema in tonsillectomy surgeries. This tongue edema seems to be a result of the pressure applied by the tonsillar retractor. This study is the first to demonstrate the possible role of ultrasonography examination in determining the tonsillar retractor–induced tongue edema in pediatric patients.
Aging-related changes in the association between negative affect and response time inconsistency in older adulthood
Authors: Cerino Eric S. , Stawski Robert S. , Settersten Richard A. , Odden Michelle C. , Hooker Karen
Published: July 2020

Negative affect (NA) and positive affect (PA) are established modifiable psychosocial correlates of cognitive health and have demonstrated capacity for meaningful within-person fluctuations based on person–environment interactions, age, and measurement approach. Previous research has shown NA is associated with increased response time inconsistency (RTI), an early performance-based indicator of cognitive health and aging. It is unclear, however, whether PA is associated with RTI and whether affect-RTI associations exist within persons over time or change as individuals get older. We utilized data from a measurement burst study (Cognition, Health, and Aging Project) to explore within- and between-person associations between affect and RTI in community-dwelling older adults ( N = 111, M = 80.04 years, SD = 6.30). Affect and RTI were assessed on 6 days over a 2-week period, every 6 months for 2 years. Results revealed a significant association between NA-low arousal and RTI within persons over time. RTI was higher on sessions when NA-low arousal was higher than usual ( b = .21, 95% CI [0.08, 0.35], p < .01). This association decreased in magnitude over time ( b = −.09, 95% CI [−0.14, −0.03], p < .001), ultimately resulting in increased NA-low arousal being associated with decreased RTI 2 years later ( b = −.14, 95% CI [−0.27, −0.01], p < .05). No PA-RTI associations emerged. The results suggest efforts focused on maximizing resource allocation and personalizing cognitive health efforts should consider for whom and when mitigating NA may be maximally beneficial to daily cognition, whereas additional work is needed to determine influences from PA.
Queering Control and Inclusion in the Contemporary Organization: On ‘LGBT-friendly control’ and the reproduction of (queer) value
Authors: Burchiellaro Olimpia
Published: July 2020

The paper problematizes the emergence of ‘LGBT-friendly organizations’ by examining the nascent forms of control that accompany efforts at including ‘diverse’ gender/sexual subjects in the workplace. Drawing on qualitative material collected through 25 semi-structured and in-depth ‘ethnographic interviews’ with LGBT employees who work in an ‘LGBT-friendly organization’, presented through three case studies, I argue that control in LGBT-friendly organizations operates through expectations and normativities concerning how gender/sexuality are supposed to be put to work in the (re)production of ‘queer value’. This contributes to our understanding of organizational control by thinking inclusion and control in a way which acknowledges the complicities between cultural norms and economic questions of value. I conclude by reflecting on what this can tell us about new and inclusive forms of organizing and the importance of remaining attuned to how financial imperatives control gender/sexuality by producing ‘diverse subjects’ tailored to its own needs.