bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orchestration Architecture for Automatic Deployment of 5G Services from Bare Metal in Mobile Edge Computing Infrastructure
Authors: Chirivella-Perez Enrique , Calero Jose M. Alcaraz , Wang Qi , Gutiérrez-Aguado Juan
Published: November 2018

The progress in realizing the Fifth Generation (5G) mobile networks has been accelerated recently towards deploying 5G prototypes with increasing scale. One of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in 5G deployments is the service deployment time, which should be substantially reduced from the current 90 hours to the target 90 minutes on average as defined by the 5G Public‐Private Partnership (5G‐PPP). To achieve this challenging KPI, highly automated and coordinated operations are required for the 5G network management. This paper addresses this challenge by designing and prototyping a novel 5G service deployment orchestration architecture that is capable of automating and coordinating a series of complicated operations across physical infrastructure, virtual infrastructure, and service layers over a distributed mobile edge computing paradigm, in an integrated manner. Empirical results demonstrate the superior performance achieved, which meets the 5G‐PPP KPI even in the most challenging scenario where 5G services are installed from bare metal.
C1q/TNF-Related Protein5 (CTRP5) as a Biomarker to Predict Metabolic Syndrome and Each of Its Components
Authors: Jiang Feiyu , Yang Min , Zhao Xili , Liu Rui , Yang Gangyi , Liu Dongfang , Liu Hua , Zheng Hongting , Zhu Zhiming , Li Ling
Published: November 2018

Objective. C1q/TNF-related protein5 (CTRP5) is a member of the C1q/tumor necrosis factor α- (TNF-α-) related protein family and has been reported to be associated with the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the clinical association between CTRP5 and metabolic syndrome (MetS) has not been reported. The aim of the current study is to investigate the association between CTRP5 and MetS by a cross-sectional study. Methods. We performed a cross-sectional study in a Chinese population including 89 controls and 88 MetS individuals. Serum CTRP5 concentrations were determined by ELISA. The relationship between circulating CTRP5 and MetS and insulin resistance (IR) was assessed by Spearman’s correlation and multiple stepwise regression analysis. Results. Circulating CTRP5 concentrations were markedly decreased in MetS individuals relative to normal adults. Overweight/obese individuals (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) showed a lower serum CTRP5 level than lean subjects (BMI < 25 kg/m2) in the study population (124.1 (99.12–147.37) vs. 103.9 (79.15–124.25) μg/L; P<0.01). Circulating CTRP5 was found to be correlated negatively with BMI, FAT%, FBG, WHR, SBP, HbA1c, TG, 2-hour blood glucose after glucose overload (2-hOGTT), FIns, and HOMA-IR and positively with HDL-C (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Binary logistic regression revealed that serum CTRP5 levels were associated with MetS. In addition, serum CTRP5 levels gradually decreased with the increase in MetS components. Conclusions. Circulating CTRP5 is relative to the elevated risk of MetS in humans and may be in part through the effect of insulin resistance. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-OCS-13003185.
The Chinese Medicinal Formulation Guzhi Zengsheng Zhitongwan Modulates Chondrocyte Structure, Dynamics, and Metabolism by Controlling Multiple Functional Proteins
Authors: Yao Baojin , Lu Bocheng , Zhang Mei , Gao Hongwei , Leng Xiangyang , Zhao Daqing
Published: November 2018

Traditional Chinese medicine is one of the oldest medical systems in the world and has its unique principles and theories in the prevention and treatment of human diseases, which are achieved through the interactions of different types of materia medica in the form of Chinese medicinal formulations. GZZSZTW, a classical and effective Chinese medicinal formulation, was designed and created by professor Bailing Liu who is the only national medical master professor in the clinical research field of traditional Chinese medicine and skeletal diseases. GZZSZTW has been widely used in clinical settings for several decades for the treatment of joint diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. In the present study, we performed quantitative proteomic analysis to investigate the effects of GZZSZTW on mouse primary chondrocytes using state-of-the-art iTRAQ technology. We demonstrated that the Chinese medicinal formulation GZZSZTW modulates chondrocyte structure, dynamics, and metabolism by controlling multiple functional proteins that are involved in the cellular processes of DNA replication and transcription, protein synthesis and degradation, cytoskeleton dynamics, and signal transduction. Thus, this study has expanded the current knowledge of the molecular mechanism of GZZSZTW treatment on chondrocytes. It has also shed new light on possible strategies to further prevent and treat cartilage-related diseases using traditional Chinese medicinal formulations.
Effects of Migration on Allergic Diseases
Authors: Tham Elizabeth Huiwen , Loo Evelyn Xiu Ling , Zhu Yanan , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi
Published: November 2018

Studies in migrant populations provide vital opportunities to investigate the role of environmental factors in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders. Differences in allergy prevalence have been observed between migrants and native-born subjects living in the same geographical location. Immigrants who migrate from less affluent countries with lower allergy prevalence tend to have a lower prevalence of allergic disorders compared to native-born residents of the more affluent host country. The patterns of allergic disease prevalence also differ between first- and second-generation migrants. The timing of migration in relation to birth, age at migration, and duration of residence in the host country also influence one’s atopic risk. A complex interplay of multiple environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural factors is likely responsible for these observed differences. Further research into the roles of various risk factors in modulating differences in allergic disease prevalence between migrant and native populations will enhance our understanding of the complex gene-environment interactions involved in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders.
Clinical Management of Appendicitis
Authors: Becker Peter , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Schilling Dieter
Published: November 2018

Background: Ever since the first appendectomy has been performed, surgery has been the standard of care for acute appendicitis, with antibiotic therapy being reserved for special situations. Recent studies have shown the feasibility of antibiotic therapy for uncomplicated appendicitis. Methods: This clinical therapeutic review is based both on author expertise and a selective literature survey in PubMed based on the term ‘appendicitis', combined with the terms ‘acute', ‘complicated', ‘conservative', ‘non-operative', ‘therapy', ‘surgery', and ‘strategy'. According to these search results as well as to the treatment guidelines from the American College of Surgeons, Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, European Association of Endoscopic Surgery, and World Society of Emergency Surgery, we present an interdisciplinary treatment concept. Results: Approximately 90% of patients treated with antibiotics are able to avoid surgery during the initial admission. The other 10% that fail to respond to antibiotics require a rescue appendectomy. Recurrence rates of non-operated patients within 1 year are as high as 20-30%. Conclusion: In uncomplicated appendicitis without risk factors for failure of non-operative management, a shared decision based on the patient's preferences should be made. In cases with risk factors, appendectomy is still the treatment recommended. If the diagnosis is uncertain or clinical symptoms are rather mild, antibiotic therapy should be started. In complicated appendicitis, management depends on the clinical state, with either immediate surgery or primarily antibiotic therapy and combined with drainage of abscess, being followed by interval appendectomy in some cases.
Arterial Wall Stress Induces Phenotypic Switching of Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells in Vascular Remodeling by Activating the YAP/TAZ Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yongshun , Cao Wei , Cui Jinjin , Yu Yang , Zhao Yubo , Shi Jian , Wu Jian , Xia Zhengyuan , Yu Bo , Liu Jingjin
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Increasing wall stress or biomechanical stretch experienced by arteries influences the initiation of atherosclerotic lesions. This initiation is mediated by Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), which are both effectors of the Hippo pathway. In this study, the functional roles of YAP/TAZ proteins in the regulation of the stretch-mediated programing of human umbilical arterial smooth muscle cells (HUASMCs) to a proliferative phenotype were examined. Methods: HUASMCs were seeded on a Matrigel-coated silicone chamber and subjected to biomechanical stretch for 24 h after 48 h of growth. YAP/TAZ small interfering RNA was used to specifically knockdown YAP/ TAZ expression in HUASMCs. Results: We observed that YAP/TAZ activation via biomechanical stretching is involved in the regulation of critical aspects of the HUASMC phenotypic switch. YAP/TAZ knockdown significantly attenuated the stretch-induced proliferative and pro-inflammatory phenotypes in HUASMCs. Furthermore, treatment with atorvastatin, an anti-atherosclerotic drug, attenuated the stretch-induced phenotypic switch of HUASMCs from the contractile to synthetic state by suppressing YAP/TAZ expression. Additional investigations demonstrated the role of stretch in inhibiting the Hippo pathway, leading to the activation of PI3-kinase (PI3K) and phosphoinositide dependent kinase (PDK1); the key molecule for the regulation of the PDK1 and Hippo complex interaction was Sav1. These results showed the importance of YAP/TAZ activation, induced by biomechanical stretch, in promoting atheroprone phenotypes in HUASMCs. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings revealed a mechanism by which YAP/TAZ activation contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
Arginine-Depleting Enzymes – An Increasingly Recognized Treatment Strategy for Therapy-Refractory Malignancies
Authors: Riess Christin , Shokraie Fatemeh , Classen Carl Friedrich , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Fiedler Tomas , Junghanss Christian , Maletzki Claudia
Published: November 2018

Arginine auxotrophy occurs in certain tumor types and is usually caused by the silencing of argininosuccinate synthetase 1 or arginine lyase genes. Such tumors are often associated with an intrinsic chemoresistance and thus a poor prognosis. Arginine auxotrophy however renders these tumors vulnerable to treatment with arginine-degrading enzymes. Among the most frequently applied arginine-degrading agents are bacterial arginine deiminases (ADI). The anti-cancerous effects of ADI derived from different bacteria were extensively studied in numerous preclinical cell culture and xenograft models. Mycoplasma-derived ADI-PEG20 is most commonly used and is currently under clinical investigation as a single agent therapeutic as well as in combination with different antineoplastic compounds. Mechanistically, ADI is capable of reducing metabolic activity in tumor cells, contributing to autophagy, senescence and apoptosis in arginine auxotrophic cells. Although clinical trials are promising, the resistance development upon initial treatment response is an increasing challenge. Furthermore, interference of ADI with the tumor microenvironment is poorly understood. In the present review, we outline recent experimental ADI-based treatment approaches and their translation into the clinic. Furthermore, we summarize new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of ADI that might facilitate the refinement of ADI-based combination therapy approaches.
CDK6 and miR-320c Co-Regulate Chondrocyte Catabolism Through NF-κB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Sun Hao , Huang Zhiyu , Wu Peihui , Chang Zongkun , Liao Weiming  , Zhang Zhiqi
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) regulates inflammatory response and cell differentiation. This study sought to determine whether CDK6 and miR-320c co-regulate chondrogenesis and inflammation. Methods: Utilizing quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), CDK6 and miR-320c expression were assessed in a micromass culture of human bone mesenchymal stem cells that underwent chondrogenesis in vitro as well as in chondrocytes from E16.5 mouse forelimbs. Normal chondrocytes were transfected with miR-320c mimic, miR-320c inhibitor, or CDK6-siRNA. Luciferase reporter assay results confirmed that miR-320c directly targets CDK6 by interacting with the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of its mRNA. qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Cell Counting Kit-8 were subsequently used to evaluate the effects of miR-320c overexpression and CDK6 inhibition on inflammatory factor expression, as well as to investigate the effects of NF-kB and MAPK signaling pathway activation on IL-1β-induced chondrocyte inflammation. Results: Our results show that miR-320c expression increased during the middle stage and decreased during the late stage of hBMSC chondrogenic differentiation. In contrast, CDK6 expression decreased during the middle stage and increased during the late stage of hBMSC chondrogenic differentiation. Moreover, CDK6 expression increased in severe OA cartilage and in hypertrophic chondrocytes of mouse forelimbs at E16.5. Results of the luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-320c modulated CDK6 expression by binding to the 3′-UTR of its mRNA. miR-320c overexpression and CDK6 inhibition repressed IL-1β-induced expression of inflammatory factors and regulated the NF-kB signaling pathway. Conclusion: CDK6 and miR-320c co-regulate hBMSC chondrogenesis and IL-1β-induced chondrocyte inflammation through the NF-kB signaling pathway, suggesting that miR-320c and CDK6 inhibitors can be used to repress catabolism in human chondrocytes.
Petróleo de Marrakesh e Senhoras aa Solidão: Um Debate Sobre Prostituição a Partir da Análise do Longa Metragem Marroquino: “Muito Amadas”.
Authors: Paniz Flávia X. M.
Published: November 2018

O artigo busca apresentar uma resenha crítica do filme “Muito Amadas” (Much Loved) escrito e dirigido pelo cineasta franco-marroquino Nabil Ayouch e exibido no festival de Cannes no ano de 2015. O longa metragem em questão narra a história de quatro mulheres marroquinas que trabalham como prostitutas na cidade de Marrakesh. O texto apresenta uma discussão sobre os dilemas que envolvem os debates acadêmicos contemporâneos sobre prostituição buscando relacionar como a construção das personagens no roteiro se encaixam e também transbordam algumas das perspectivas políticas e analíticas sobre trabalho sexual discutidas nas ciências sociais hoje.
Phylogenetic relationships of Hechtia (Hechtioideae; Bromeliaceae)
Authors: RAMÍREZ-MORILLO IVÓN M. , CARNEVALI GERMÁN , PINZÓN JUAN P. , ROMERO-SOLER KATYA , RAIGOZA N. , HORNUNG-LEONI C. , DUNO R. , TAPIA-MUÑOZ J. L. , ECHEVARRÍA I.
Published: November 2018

This is the first phylogenetic analysis of the Megamexican Bromeliaceae genus Hechtia and includes 82.6 % of the known taxa. We used plastid (ycf1, rpl32-trnL intergenic spacer), and nuclear (PRK) DNA regions, as well as morphological characters. We generated 244 new sequences for a total of 62 taxa (including 12 species of the outgroup). Results of combined data using parsimony and Bayesian inference reveal the monophyly of Hechtia, as well as identify five well supported clades: (1) a clade (H. tillandsioides complex) as the sister group to the rest of Hechtia; (2) a clade including the species of the H. guatemalensis complex, distributed in Southern Megamexico; the remaining taxa of the genus are retained in a clade which consists of three well-supported clades; (3) the H. glomerata complex distributed in the Gulf of Mexico drainage; (4) a clade of two species (H. deceptrix and H. epigyna) that share an inferior ovary and are distributed north of the Tehuantepec Isthmus in the Sierra Madre Oriental; and (5) an internally poorly resolved clade with the remaining species containing several well-supported, geographically restricted clades. At this time it is uncertain what part of Megamexico was first invaded by the ancestor of Hechtia. Regardless, it becomes clear that from the original point of invasion in what is now Megamexico, it radiated into restricted geographical realms with secondary radiations occurring within them, which resulted in some recurrent particular evolutionary trends most likely associated with the invasion of dry, highly seasonal climates, or cooler areas subject to occasional frosts. Lateral inflorescences and flower morphology suggesting pollination syndromes other than melittophily (psychophily/trochilophily) have evolved more than once in Hechtia.
Cyrtodactylus auribalteatus (Squamata: Gekkonidae), a new cave-dwelling gecko from Phitsanulok Province, Thailand
Authors: SUMONTHA MONTRI , PANITVONG NONN , DEEIN GRIDSADA
Published: November 2018

A new cave-dwelling species of the gekkonid lizard genus Cyrtodactylus Gray, C. auribalteatus sp. nov. is described on the basis of animals collected from a cave in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand, bringing the number of species in this genus in Thailand to 18. The new species shares over all appearances with other cave-dwelling Cyrtodactylus spp. in having large eyes, a long snout, reduced tubercles, absence of caudal tubercles, and slender limbs for climbing. The new species is characterized by its moderate size (snout-vent length to at least 98.07 mm), weakly conical tubercles in 22–24 rows at midbody, high number of ventral scale across midbody (38–40), absence of precloacal groove, present of a single series of 6 precloacal pores and 4–5 femoral pores on each thigh separated by a diastema, broad subcaudal plates, and its dorsal pattern of three dark bands between limb insertions. It is the seventh species of cave-dwelling Cyrtodactylus, including the sandstone cave species, C. jarujini, recorded from Thailand.
Revision of the Palaearctic species and review of the Oriental species of Ooctonus (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), with notes on extralimital taxa
Authors: TRIAPITSYN SERGUEI V.
Published: November 2018

The fairyfly genus Ooctonus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) from the Palaearctic region is revised. Twelve speces are recognized, including the newly described O. lokomotiv Triapitsyn sp. n. (Far East of Russia), O. saturn Triapitsyn sp. n. (Far East of Russia, and Japan), O. spartak Triapitsyn sp. n. (Kyrgyzstan), O. tretiakovi Triapitsyn sp. n. (Far East of Russia), and O. us Triapitsyn sp. n. (Japan, and Republic of Korea). All the species are redescribed, illustrated, and diagnosed, as is the Oriental species O. himalayus Subba Rao, based mainly on non-type specimens from Nepal (its male is newly described). Taxonomic notes are provided on the other three previously described Oriental species of Ooctonus and one new Oriental species, O. lapen Triapitsyn sp. n., is described from Nepal. Extralimital records are included for the species with Holarctic distribution. Twenty-five new synonymies are proposed: O. major Foerster syn. n., O. elegantissimus Soyka syn. n., O. austriacus Soyka syn. n., O. silvestris Soyka syn. n., and O. isotomus Mathot syn. n. under O. insignis Haliday; O. acutiventris Soyka syn. n., O. askhamensis Hincks syn. n., O. collinus Soyka syn. n., O. stammeri Soyka syn. n., O. viennensis Soyka syn. n., O. niger Soyka syn. n., and O. americanus Girault syn. n. under O. vulgatus Haliday; O. amoenus (Foerster) syn. n., O. hemipterus igneus Debauche syn. n., O. foersteri Soyka syn. n., O. wagneri Soyka syn. n., and O. pechlaneri Soyka syn. n. under O. hemipterus Haliday; O. atroflavus Soyka syn. n., O. diversicornis Soyka syn. n., and O. auripes Whittaker syn. n. under O. notatus Walker; O. polonicus Soyka syn. n., O. montanus Soyka syn. n., O. remonti Mathot syn. n., and O. dovrensis Solem & Sveum syn. n. under O. sublaevis Foerster; and O. flaviventris Donev syn. n. under O. novickyi Soyka. Ooctonus sevae Risbec (from Madagascar) is transferred to Gonatocerus Nees ab Esenbeck as Gonotocerus (Lymaenon) sevae (Risbec), comb. n. Lectotypes are designated for O. austriacus Soyka, O. elegantissimus Soyka, O. foersteri Soyka, O. heterotomus Foerster, O. major Foerster, and O. sub-4 · Zootaxa 2381 © 2010 Magnolia Presslaevis Foerster. Separate keys are provided to females of Ooctonus from the Palaearctic region, to both sexes of the European species, and also to females of the known Oriental species of Ooctonus. A brief diagnosis of the genus is given based on its world fauna, and information on the distribution and known host associations of Ooctonus species is provided. A historical account of the Walter Soyka collection of microhymenoptera is presented, with references to the Arnold Foerster collection of Mymaridae.
A review of the species of the tribe Chorosomatini of China (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae)
Authors: RÉDEI DÁVID
Published: November 2018

Species of the tribe Chorosomatini (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae: Rhopalinae) occurring in China are reviewed. Type materials of three species described from China, so far of uncertain identities, are re-examined and documented, and taxonomic changes are accordingly proposed. The following synonymies, suspected but not explicitly proposed by previous authors, are confirmed and explicitly proposed: Agraphopus lethierryi Stål, 1872 = A. yunnanus Hsiao, 1965; Leptoceraea viridis Jakovlev, 1873 = L. granulosa Hsiao, 1965; Chorosoma macilentum Stål, 1858 = Ch. brevicolle Hsiao, 1964. Faunistic records of other species of the tribe are provided, and several misidentifications in the previous literature are corrected; Ch. gracile Josifov, 1968, and Ch. schillingii (Schilling, 1829) are recorded for the first time from China. A checklist of the species and subspecies of Chorosomatini occurring in China, with a review of their distribution, and a key for their identification, are provided.
Type locality of the Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus (Passeriformes, Ploceidae)
Authors: OSCHADLEUS H. DIETER
Published: November 2018

The Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus (Linnaeus, 1766) was one of the first weaverbirds to be described, and although Linnaeus (1766) provided its specific epithet and the type locality of the Philippines, the Baya Weaver does not occur there. Hartert (1902, p. 577) thus restricted the locality to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), and this locality has been used in all major references since, in spite of Stresemann (1952) showing that the type was most probably collected by Pierre Poivre in India. This paper draws attention to this error so that avian handbooks and taxonomic works may refer to the correct type locality of the Baya Weaver as Puducherry (previously Pondicherry), Puducherry district, India.
Cribrilinids (Bryozoa, Cheilostomata) associated with deep-water coral habitats at the Great Bahama Bank slope (NW Atlantic), with description of new taxa
Authors: ROSSO A. , BEUCK L. , VERTINO A. , SANFILIPPO R. , FREIWALD A.
Published: November 2018

Four cribrilinid bryozoans associated with deep-water corals (578–682 m depth) from the Great Bahama Bank slope, are described, two of them are new. The generic allocation of some species prompted us to raise the subgenera Puellina, Cribrilaria, and Glabrilaria to genus rank. The new combination Cribrilaria saginata (Winston, 2005) n. comb. is proposed. Genus Glabrilaria is reported from the NW Atlantic for the first time based on the description of Glabrilaria hirsuta Rosso n. sp. and Glabrilaria polita Rosso n. sp. The new genus Teresaspis Rosso n. gen. is erected, and Teresaspis lineata (Canu & Bassler, 1928) n. comb. is proposed as its type species. The new genus Harmelinius Rosso n. gen. is erected for Cribrilina uniserialis (Harmelin, 1978). Both genera have uniserial colonies formed by slightly caudate zooids with extensive gymnocyst and a frontal shield of flattened costae. Teresaspis lineata n. comb., however, has costae with pelmatidia that are connected by few intercostal bridges and separated by intercostal spaces, four orificial costa-like processes with the proximal pair arching above the orifice, hyperstomial acleithral ovicells with a pseudoporous ooecium formed by the distal zooid or a kenozooid, two types of kenozooids (large with costate frontal shield and small with smooth shield and central opesia), and an ancestrula with costate frontal shield. Avicularia are apparently absent in this species. In contrast, the type species of Harmelinius Rosso n. gen. has costae lacking pelmatidia and which are separated by slit-like intercostal spaces. The hyperstomial cleithral ovicells have smooth ooecia with a median suture and without pseudopores, and are formed by a distal kenozooid associated with a small avicularium. Additional paired oral avicularia are occasionally present, as are large kenozooids with a central opesia. Oral spines or spine-like processes are absent. Taxonomy of the above reported cribrilinid genera is discussed in detail together with the geographic distribution of all mentioned taxa.
The Safety and Efficacy of Expiratory Muscle Strength Training for Rehabilitation After Supracricoid Partial Laryngectomy: A Pilot Investigation
Authors: Palmer Andrew D. , Bolognone Rachel K. , Thomsen Skipp , Britton Deanna , Schindler Joshua , Graville Donna J.
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

Expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) is a safe, effective intervention that can be performed at home and may be beneficial for individuals with voice and swallowing disorders. To date there have been few studies of EMST in the head and neck cancer population, and there are no previous reports of its use after supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL). The current prospective clinical pilot study was undertaken to determine the safety and efficacy of a 4-week treatment program.

Methods:

Six participants were recruited who had previously undergone SCPL, were medically stable, and had no contraindications for use of the device. At baseline, objective respiratory measurements were collected, dietary status was recorded, and participants were asked to complete a series of validated self-report instruments relating to voice, swallowing, breathing, and cough. Following the completion of treatment, baseline measures were repeated, and participant feedback was solicited.

Results:

The majority of individuals found the device easy to use (83%) and beneficial (83%). The side effects of treatment were relatively minor and included dizziness, muscle inflammation, and vocal fatigue. There were improvements in 2 measures from before to after treatment, namely, an average 21% increase in peak cough flow (from 371.67 to 451.33 L/min) and a 38% decrease on the Dyspnea Index (from 6.17 to 3.83). Other measures showed inconsistent changes.

Conclusions:

EMST appeared to improve cough strength and reduce dyspnea symptoms after SCPL. Further study of the relative efficacy of EMST compared to other rehabilitation protocols after SCPL is needed.
On Being a “Good” Indonesian Muslim Woman: An Autoethnography
Authors: Martin-Anatias Nelly
Published: November 2018

In this study, I propose through my own voice, attachment, and representation an expansive and inclusive construction of Indonesian Muslim middle-class women that may pose a challenge to the hegemonic construction of Indonesianness. I explore the renegotiation of the self, using the definition of Ibuism, state laws, and Islamic teachings as the frameworks through which the “good” Indonesian Muslim woman is constructed. Ibuism, derived from Ibu, an Indonesian term for “mother,” refers to the social construction of Indonesian womanhood within the household domain, as imposed by the authoritarian government for nearly 32 years (1966–1998). I use reflexive notes as my data to explore how the postauthoritarian era has affected me as a representative subject. Autoethnography offers a space to find that others’ assessment of my Muslimness is an effective lens through which I view my being and my becoming as a woman, an Indonesian, and a Muslim.
The impact of advertisements on women’s psychological and emotional states: exploring navigation and resistance of disabling stereotypes
Authors: Houston Ella
Published: November 2018

Representations of disabled women in advertising have been historically problematic. Largely, such portrayals have reinforced disability and gender stereotypes. This is an important issue to address because cultural representations have the ability to challenge or support widespread attitudes and beliefs surrounding identity groups. In addition, representations can generate micro level impact, for example, influencing how individual’s perceive themselves. In this article, Thomas’s (1999) concept of psycho-emotional disablism is used to enhance understandings of the relationship between advertising messages and individual psychological and emotional states. The feminist disability studies research presented in this article explores how women with mental health issues navigate advertising portrayals of mental health and gender. The findings develop existing knowledge of psycho-emotional disablism through demonstrating how individuals often use problematic advertising messages and memories of psycho-emotional oppression as a vehicle for positive self-transformation and as a way of resisting cultural stereotypes.
Subtle social stressors of civil wars: Transformation of social networks and psychological distress in Sri Lanka
Authors: Fatke Matthias , Freitag Markus
Published: November 2018

Civil wars entail many harmful consequences for the population beyond physical injuries and casualties. Although recent research has pointed out the importance of psychological distress, it must not be overlooked that not only immediate experiences from civil wars can cause such distress, but also the processes transforming social networks. In this article, the authors argue that wartime transformation is enduring even after the civil war has ended. It is precisely these social processes that are responsible for the psychological footprint on civilians. This claim is tested using original survey data collected in Sri Lanka, which has witnessed a devastating civil war. Results of the regression analysis indicate that social transformation processes are distinctly associated with increased war-related distress. Moreover, social transformation processes partly mediate the relationship between direct exposure to war and distress. These findings have important implications for our understanding of social interventions in the aftermath of civil wars.
A public library cannot live on books alone: A lesson from history
Authors: Șerbănuță Claudia
Published: November 2018

For almost half a century Romania was under a totalitarian regime. In times of severe censorship and information control the communist regime promoted public libraries. This paper will present the main phases of the public library system development and discuss how the state’s emphasis on providing large collections of books influenced library services. As part of an oral history project, this paper will use memories of people who worked in public libraries of various sizes in the 1970s and the 1980s, archival documents and secondary sources to contribute to a more nuanced discussion about the recent history of Romanian public libraries. What were the phases of the development of the national library system and how important was the library collection for the institutional survival of the public library? The paper will also discuss the collection development policy and contrast it with the impoverished professional development within the library system.
Bearing deformation of heavy-duty machine tool-foundation systems and deformation detection methods
Authors: Tian Yang , Liu Zhifeng , Dong Xiangmin
Published: November 2018

Because of the characteristics of heavy-duty machine tools such as large self-weight and heavy load, the working precision and service life of their lathe beds, columns, and other large structural parts are all directly influenced by the foundation. In view of the considerable influence of joint surfaces on system characteristics, this study involved obtaining joint surface parameter values from a microscopic perspective, deriving a static joint surface parameter model from Reynolds equation, adopting fractal theory to develop a bolted joint surface parameter model, and thus completing the embedding of joint surface parameters under uneven loads; a simulation model for a heavy-duty machine tool-foundation system was also devised considering the influence of joint surfaces. To identify the structural micro-deformation status of heavy-duty numerical control machine tool-foundation systems, the authors constructed a fiber grating technology-based experimental platform for detecting the deformation of structural parts, verified the correctness of the above simulation model via experiments, and proposed a method for detecting the deformation of heavy-duty machine tool-foundation systems using fiber grating technology. Based on the above simulation model, the influence of reinforced layer position, foundation outline specifications and soil properties around the foundation on the bearing deformation of heavy-duty machine tool-foundation systems were studied, and some guidelines on the construction of concrete foundations were formulated. This model and the related detection method laid a theoretical foundation for guiding the design and optimization of heavy-duty machine tool structure and foundation.
Month-of-birth-effect in multiple sclerosis in Austria
Authors: Walleczek Nina-Katharina , Frommlet Florian , Bsteh Gabriel , Eggers Christian , Rauschka Helmut , Koppi Stefan , Assar Hamid , Ehling Rainer , Birkl Christoph , Salhofer-Polanyi Sabine , Baumgartner Anna , Blechinger Stephan , Buchinger Dominic , Sellner Johann , Kraus Jörg , Moser Hermann , Mayr Markus , Guger Michael , Rathmaier Sandra , Raber Bettina , Liendl Herburg , Hiller Maria-Sophie , Parigger Silvia , Morgenstern Gabriele , Kempf Ines , Spiss Heinrich K , Meister Birgit , Heine Martin , Cisar Astrid , Bachler Herbert , Khalil Michael , Fuchs Siegrid , Enzinger Christian , Fazekas Franz , Leutmezer Fritz , Berger Thomas , Kristoferitsch Wolfgang , Aboulenein-Djamshidian Fahmy
Published: November 2018

Background:

The month-of-birth-effect (MoBE) describes the finding that multiple sclerosis (MS) patients seem to have been born significantly more frequently in spring, with a rise in May, and significantly less often in autumn and winter with the fewest births in November.

Objectives:

To analyse if the MoBE can also be found in the Austrian MS population, and if so, whether the pattern is similar to the reported pattern in Canada, United Kingdom, and some Scandinavian countries.

Methods:

The data of 7886 MS patients in Austria were compared to all live births in Austria from 1940 to 2010, that is, 7.256545 data entries of the Austrian birth registry and analysed in detail.

Results:

Patterns observed in our MS cohort were not different from patterns in the general population, even when stratifying for gender. However, the noticeable and partly significant ups and downs over the examined years did not follow the distinct specific pattern with highest birth rates in spring and lowest birth rates in autumn that has been described previously for countries above the 49th latitude.

Conclusion:

After correcting for month-of-birth patterns in the general Austrian population, there is no evidence for the previously described MoBE in Austrian MS patients.
Managerial orientations and business performance in small and medium tourism accommodation businesses (SMTABs): A resource advantage-knowledge creation approach
Authors: Sa Melissa Liow Li , Chai Yeow Kim
Published: November 2018

The use of the resource-advantage theory by businesses has come to be a standard tool for forging business advantage over the past 30 years. However, the benefits of managerial orientation and the knowledge creation process may be context-specific as opposed to being common worldwide. In contrast to large organizations, small- and medium-sized businesses have a higher dependency on their internal resources. This article discusses the situation of converting owner-managers’ entrepreneurial orientation and brand orientation into superior business performance (BP) using the resource advantage-knowledge creation approach. It is found that owner-managers of Malaysian small and medium tourism accommodation businesses (SMTABs) are entrepreneurial but less brand-orientated. Yet a better result would arise when entrepreneurship and brand orientation are integrated to encourage a knowledge creation process that directly influences BP. This article suggests that SMTAB owner-managers should make more effort in honing their managerial orientation. The findings of this study can only be generalized to developing nations.
Assessing the optimum combustion under constrained conditions
Authors: Olmeda Pablo , Martín Jaime , Novella Ricardo , Blanco-Cavero Diego
Published: November 2018

This work studies the optimum heat release law of a direct injection diesel engine under constrained conditions. For this purpose, a zero-dimensional predictive model of a diesel engine is coupled to an optimization tool used to shape the heat release law in order to optimize some outputs (maximize gross indicated efficiency and minimize NO x emissions) while keeping several restrictions (mechanical limits such as maximum peak pressure and maximum pressure rise rate). In a first step, this methodology is applied under different heat transfer scenarios without restrictions to evaluate the possible gain obtained through the thermal isolation of the combustion chamber. Results derived from this study show that heat transfer has a negative effect on gross indicated efficiency ranging from −4% of the fuel energy ( ṁfHv), at high engine speed and load, up to −8% ṁfHv, at low engine speed and load. In a second step, different mechanical limits are applied resulting in a gross indicated efficiency worsening from −1.4% ṁfHv up to −2.8% ṁfHv compared to the previous step when nominal constraints are applied. In these conditions, a temperature swing coating that covers the piston top and cylinder head is considered obtaining a maximum gross indicated efficiency improvement of +0.5% ṁfHv at low load and engine speed. Finally, NO x emissions are also included in the optimization obtaining the expected tradeoff between gross indicated efficiency and NO x. Under this optimization, cutting down the experimental emissions by 50% supposes a gross indicated efficiency penalty up to −8% ṁfHv when compared to the optimum combustion under nominal limits, while maintaining the experimental gross indicated efficiency allows to reduce the experimental emissions 30% at high load and 65% at low load and engine speed.
Accidental guide catheter fracture in mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Al-Schameri Abdul Rahman , Deshmukh Aviraj , Debaseh Hadi , Griessenauer Christoph , Killer-Oberpfalzer Monika
Published: November 2018

Endovascular thrombectomy is now the standard of care for large vessel occlusion stroke. The aim is to achieve rapid and complete recanalisation while avoiding complications. Apart from the conventional complications of neurointerventional procedures, mechanical thrombectomy has its unique set of complications, inherent to the disease pathophysiology. We describe an unusual complication of catheter fracture and subsequent distal embolisation into the cerebral vasculature, which was noticed 24 hours after the procedure. Due to a lack of clinical consequences, we decided to manage it conservatively. The patient died within the following few days from respiratory complications unrelated to the stroke or the endovascular thrombectomy procedure. Consequently, we were able to retrieve the fractured segment and carry out histopathological analysis, which helped us to identify exactly its origin from the guide catheter. We believe that systematic reporting and database compilation of such device-related complications will aid in the design and development of neurointerventional devices in the future.
The Absence of TLR4 Prevents Fetal Brain Injury in the Setting of Intrauterine Inflammation
Authors: Tulina Natalia M. , Brown Amy G. , Barila Guillermo O. , Elovitz Michal A.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Exposure to intrauterine inflammation during pregnancy is linked to brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders in affected children. Innate immunity, specifically Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways are present throughout the reproductive tract as well as in the placenta, fetal membranes, and fetus. The TLR pathways are mechanistically involved in host responses to foreign pathogens and may lead to brain injury associated with prenatal inflammation.

Objective:

We aimed to determine whether the activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway, in the mother and fetus, is critical to fetal brain injury in the setting of intrauterine inflammation.

Methods:

A mini-laparotomy was performed on time pregnant C57B6 mice and 2 knockout mouse strains lacking the function of the Tlr4 and Myd88 genes on embryonic day 15. Intrauterine injections of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide or saline were administered as described previously. Dams were killed 6 hours postsurgery, and placental, amniotic fluid, and fetal brain tissue were collected. To assess brain injury, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis was performed on multiple components of the NOTCH signaling pathway, including Hes genes. Interleukin (IL) IL6, IL1β, and CCL5 expression was assessed using qPCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

Using an established mouse model of intrauterine inflammation, we demonstrate that the abrogation of TLR4 signaling eliminates the cytokine response in mother and fetus and prevents brain injury associated with increased expression of transcriptional effectors of the NOTCH signaling pathway, Hes1 and Hes5.

Conclusions:

These data show that the activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway is necessary for the development of fetal brain injury in response to intrauterine inflammation.
The Neglected Discipline of Almsgiving
Authors: Harrod Joseph C.
Published: November 2018

Though the early church practiced almsgiving as a normative act of piety its role as a formative spiritual discipline has been largely ignored in contemporary evangelical works on the disciplines. In this article, I argue that intentional and real care for the poor, though rarely mentioned today as a formative practice in evangelical circles, ought to be included in normative discussions of the spiritual disciplines.
The Minimal Clinically Important Difference and Substantial Clinical Benefit in the Patient-Reported Outcome Measures of Patients Undergoing Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation in the Knee
Authors: Ogura Takahiro , Ackermann Jakob , Mestriner Alexandre Barbieri , Merkely Gergo , Gomoll Andreas H.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Little is known regarding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) with regard to the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form, Lysholm score, and Short Form 12 (SF-12) score of patients who undergo osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA). We aimed to determine the MCID and SCB associated with those patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after OCA.

Design

We analyzed the data of 86 consecutive patients who underwent OCA and who completed satisfaction surveys at a minimum of 1 year postoperatively and had at least one repeated PROM. MCID was determined using an anchor-based method: the optimal cutoff point for receiver operative characteristic (ROC) curves. If an anchor-based method was inapplicable, distribution-based methods were employed. SCB was determined using ROC curve analysis.

Results

Based on the ROC curve analysis, MCID was 16.7 for KOOS pain, 25 for KOOS sports/recreation, and 9.8 for IKDC. SCB was 27.7 for KOOS pain, 10.7 for KOOS symptom, 30 for KOOS sports/recreation, 31.3 for KOOS quality of life, 26.9 for IKDC, 25 for Lysholm, and 12.1 for SF-12 physical component summary. No significant association was noted between SCB achievement and the baseline patient factors and baseline PROMs.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the MCIDs and SCBs of several PROMs in patients undergoing OCA. These results will aid the interpretation of the effect of treatment and clinical trial settings. Moreover, the SCBs will help surgeons in the counseling of patients, where patients expect optimal results rather than minimal improvement.
What kind of in-store smart retailing for an omnichannel real-life experience?
Authors: Bèzes Christophe
Published: November 2018

Smart retailing is currently presented by many consultants and some researchers in innovation as the solution for generating an omnichannel experience that benefits customers and retailers alike. But does the type of in-store technology promote different forms of omnichannel experience? Are retailers able to control the omnichannel experience of their customers by acting on the experiential context of their stores? Based on 107 bibliographic references in marketing, innovation, and information systems, this synthesis highlights four forms of omnichannel experience, depending on whether they are triggered by the customer or controlled by the retailer and perceived as integrated in terms either of marketing or of technologies. When the retailer tries to exert too much control over the various forms of omnichannel experience, some of them cease to be truly omnichannel and are reduced to little more than a single-channel (store or website) experience.
Exploring the effects of polls on public opinion: How and when media reports of policy preferences can become self-fulfilling prophesies
Authors: Toff Benjamin
Published: November 2018

Recent work has suggested that media reporting about the public’s policy preferences may be self-reinforcing, contributing to greater policy conformity. This article presents additional evidence in support of this theory and adds new detail about the conditionality of these effects. Results from two experiments are described in which respondents are presented with excerpted news stories containing varying polling information about six separate issues. Findings indicate that (a) exposure to such poll results can elicit differences in support for the issue by as much as 10–15 percentage points; (b) the magnitude of these effects varies systematically and inversely in relation to overall attitudinal intensity levels for each issue; and (c) the opinions of specific subgroups referenced in polls matter, producing larger or smaller effects depending on how salient the group is to receivers of the information. Taken together, these results underscore why news reporting about public attitudes deserves greater attention as an important factor in the policy process.