bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Series Solution for the Vibration of Mindlin Rectangular Plates with Elastic Point Supports around the Edges
Authors: Pang Fuzhen , Li Haichao , Du Yuan , Li Shuo , Chen Hailong , Liu Ning
Published: June 2018

A series solution for the transverse vibration of Mindlin rectangular plates with elastic point supports around the edges is studied. The series solution for the problem is obtained using improved Fourier series method, in which the vibration displacements and the cross‐sectional rotations of the midplane are represented by a double Fourier cosine series and four supplementary functions. The supplementary functions are expressed as the combination of trigonometric functions and a single cosine series expansion and are introduced to remove the potential discontinuities associated with the original admissible functions along the edges when they are viewed as periodic functions defined over the entire x‐y plane. This series solution is approximately accurate in the sense that it explicitly satisfies, to any specified accuracy, both the governing equations and the boundary conditions. The convergence, accuracy, stability, and efficiency of the proposed method have been examined through a series of numerical examples. Some numerical examples about the nondimensional frequency and mode shapes of Mindlin rectangular plates with different point‐supported edge conditions are given.
Antifatigue Potential Activity of Sarcodon imbricatus in Acute Excise‐Treated and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Mice via Regulation of Nrf2‐Mediated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Wang Xue , Qu Yidi , Zhang Yongfeng , Li Shaopeng , Sun Yiyang , Chen Zepeng , Teng Lirong , Wang Di
Published: June 2018

Sarcodon imbricatus (SI), a precious edible fungus, contains 35.22% of total sugar, 18.33% of total protein, 24 types of fatty acid, 16 types of amino acid, and 8 types of minerals. Encouragingly, it is rich in potential antioxidants such as total polyphenols (0.41%), total sterols (3.16%), and vitamins (0.44%). In the present study, the antifatigue properties of SI and its potential mechanisms of action were explored by the experiments on acute excise‐treated mice and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) mice. SI (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg) significantly enhanced exercise tolerance in the weight‐loaded forced swimming test (FST) and rota‐rod test (RRT) and reduced the immobility in the tail suspension test on CFS mice. SI markedly increased the levels of glycogen in the liver and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the liver and muscle and decreased the lactic acid (LD) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) content in both acute swimming‐treated mice and CFS mice. SI improved the endogenous cellular antioxidant enzyme contents in the two mouse models by improving the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum, liver, and muscle, respectively. In CFS mice, the enhanced expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), SOD1, SOD2, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and catalase (CAT) in the liver were observed after a 32‐day SI administration. Our data indicated that SI possessed antifatigue activity, which may be related to its ability to normalize energy metabolism and Nrf2‐mediated oxidative stress. Consequently, SI can be expected to serve as a novel natural antifatigue supplement in health foods.
The Sun Solutions Intervention for Operating Engineers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Duffy Sonia A. , Hall Stephanie V. , Tan Alai , Waltje Andrea H. , Cooper Samantha A. , Heckman Carolyn J.
Published: June 2018

Background: Because Operating Engineers (heavy equipment operators) are outdoor workers at risk for skin cancer, interventions are needed to promote sun safety. The objectives were to determine changes in sunscreen use and sunburning among Operating Engineers randomized to four conditions in the Sun Solutions study: (i) education only; (ii) education and text message reminders; (ii) education and mailed sunscreen; and (iv) education, text message reminders, and mailed sunscreen.

Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, Operating Engineers (N = 357) were recruited at required safety training sessions throughout Michigan during winter/spring of 2012 to 2013 and provided baseline surveys. The four interventions were delivered over the summer. Postintervention surveys were collected in the fall (82.1% follow-up).

Results: Sunscreen use improved significantly from baseline to follow-up in all four conditions (P < 0.05), except sunscreen use among those receiving education and text message reminders was only marginally significant (P = 0.07). There were significantly greater increases in sunscreen use in the two conditions that were mailed sunscreen (P < 0.001). There was a significant decrease in the number of reported sunburns from baseline to follow-up in all four conditions (P < 0.001), but there were no significant differences in sunburns among the groups. Participant evaluated the interventions highly with those who received mailed sunscreen rating the intervention the highest.

Conclusions: Providing proper sun-safety education and minimizing barriers to sunscreen use can increase sunscreen use and decrease reported sunburns.

Impact: The implementation of the Sun Solutions intervention may be an effective method to modify skin cancer–related behaviors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(8); 864–73. ©2018 AACR.
Chronically Hypoxic Fetal Lambs Supported by an Extra-Uterine Device Exhibit Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Elevations of Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1-Alpha
Authors: Rossidis Avery C. , Baumgarten Heron D. , Lawrence Kendall M. , McGovern Patrick E. , Mejaddam Ali Y. , Li Haiying , Hwang Grace , Young Kathleen , Peranteau William H. , Davey Marcus G. , Gaynor J. William , Flake Alan W.
Published: June 2018

Introduction: We have recently developed an extra-uterine environment for neonatal development (EXTEND) capable of supporting premature fetal lambs and have been able to replicate hypoxic in utero conditions by controlling fetal oxygen delivery. In this study, we investigated the fetal mitochondrial response to hypoxia. Methods: Eight premature fetal lambs were delivered via hysterotomy and transitioned to extra-uterine support for 3 weeks. The lambs were divided into 2 groups: normoxic fetuses which maintained physiologic oxygen delivery and hypoxic fetuses in which oxygen delivery was significantly reduced. Control fetuses were delivered via hysterotomy but not cannulated. Measurements of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were performed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: There were no significant differences in MMP between normoxic EXTEND fetuses and controls. Hypoxic fetuses had significantly more depolarized mitochondria compared to normoxic fetuses overall, and these changes were specifically appreciated in weeks 1 and 2, but not by week 3. Hypoxic fetuses had significantly elevated levels of HIF-1α compared to normoxic fetuses in the first 2 weeks. Discussion: Normoxic fetal lambs supported by EXTEND demonstrate normal mitochondrial function as evidenced by equivalent membrane potentials compared to control fetuses. Hypoxic fetuses exhibit mitochondrial dysfunction, though they do show evidence of adaptation after 3 weeks of hypoxic exposure.
Adjustable Transobturator Male System after Failed Surgical Devices for Male Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Angulo Javier C. , Esquinas Cristina , Arance Ignacio , Rodríguez Andrés , Pereira Javier , Rabassa Miguel , Teyrouz Antoine , Teba Fernando , Celada Guillermo , Marcelino João P. , Martins Francisco E. , Manso Margarida , Cruz Francisco
Published: June 2018

Objectives: Feasibility study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Adjustable Transobturator Male System (ATOMS) after failed surgical devices for male stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Materials and Methods: Thirty patients were implanted with ATOMS after they were implanted with surgical device/s previously. SUI severity was evaluated as dryness (0–1 pad/day), mild (2 pads/day), moderate (3–5 pads/day), or severe (≥6 pads/day). Change in pad-test and pad-count after adjustment, operative parameters, patient satisfaction, and number and grade of complications were investigated. Results: Previous failed treatment methods were artificial urinary sphincter (AUS; n = 19), Advance (n = 10), and Virtue (n = 1). Six cases had multiple previous treatments. Preoperative SUI was mild 6 (20%), moderate 11 (36.7%), and severe 13 (43.3%). Median pad-test decreased from 435 mL baseline to 10 mL after adjustment and pad-count from 4 to 0. Dry-rate was 76.7 and 83.3% declared satisfied. Postoperative SUI distribution was mild in 3 (10%) and moderate in 4 (13.3%). No patient had urinary retention after catheter removal. Complications presented in 4 (13.3%; 3 grade-I, 1 grade-II). After a median of 24 months follow-up, no system experienced infection or urethral erosion and 1 (3.3%) was removed for inefficacy. Conclusion: Based on short-term efficacy and patient satisfaction, ATOMS can be a realistic alternative for male SUI after other failed systems, including AUS. The absence of urethral erosion and limited infective problems makes this alternative attractive for cases with previous failed treatments.
Gait Variability Can Predict the Risk of Cognitive Decline in Cognitively Normal Older People
Authors: Byun Seonjeong , Han Ji Won , Kim Tae Hui , Kim Kayoung , Kim Tae Hyun , Park Jae Young , Suh Seung Wan , Seo Ji Young , So Yoonseop , Lee Kyoung Hwan , Lee Ju Ri , Jeong Hyeon , Jeong Hyun-Ghang , Han Kyuhee , Hong Jong Woo , Kim Ki Woong
Published: June 2018

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of gait speed and gait variability, an index of how much gait parameters, such as step time, fluctuate step-to-step, with risk of cognitive decline in cognitively normal elderly individuals. While high gait variability is emerging as an early indicator of dementing illnesses, there is little research on whether high gait variability predicts cognitive decline in cognitively normal elderly who have no evidence of cognitive impairment. Methods: In this 4-year prospective cohort study on 91 community-dwelling cognitively normal elderly individuals without cerebral ischemic burden or Parkinsonism, we evaluated gait speed and step time variability using a tri-axial accelerometer placed on the center of body mass, and diagnosed mild cognitive impairment (MCI) according to the International Working Group on MCI. We performed Kaplan-Meier analysis with consecutive log-rank testing for MCI-free survival by cohort-specific tertiles of gait speed; hazard ratios (HR) of incident MCI were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, education level, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale score, GDS score, and presence of the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele. Results: Out of the 91 participants in the baseline assessment, 87 completed one or more 2-year follow-up assessments, and the median duration of follow-up was 47.1 months. Kaplan-Meier curves of incident MCI show evident differences in risk by gait variability group (χ2 = 9.64, p = 0.002, log-rank test). Mean MCI-free survival in the high variability group was 12% shorter than in the mid-to-low tertile group (47.4 ± 1.74 [SD] vs. 54.04 ± 0.52 months), while it was comparable between gait speed groups (51.59 ± 0.70 vs. 50.64 ± 1.77 months; χ2 = 1.16, p = 0.281). In multivariate analysis, subjects with high gait variability showed about 12-fold higher risk of MCI (HR = 11.97, 95% CI = 1.29–111.37) than those with mid-to-low variability. However, those with slow gait speed showed comparable MCI risk to those with mid-to-high speed (HR = 5.04, 95% CI = 0.53–48.18). Conclusions: Gait variability may be a better predictor of cognitive decline than gait speed in cognitively normal elderly individuals without cerebral ischemic burden or Parkinsonism.
Caffeine Consumption in First-Degree Relatives of Essential Tremor Cases: Evidence of Dietary Modification Before Disease Onset
Authors: Louis Elan D. , Meyers James H. , Cristal Ashley D. , Factor-Litvak Pam
Published: June 2018

Background: Caffeine can exacerbate tremor. Reducing caffeine intake or switching to decaffeinated beverages can lessen tremor. Unaffected relatives of essential tremor (ET) cases often have mild, subclinical tremor. One question is whether the coffee and tea consumption pattern in these individuals differs from that of controls (Co). Methods: We ascertained the patterns of coffee and tea intake using a structured questionnaire, and compared the use in unaffected first-degree relatives of ET cases (FD-ET) to the use in age-matched Co. Three measures of relative caffeinated coffee + tea to decaffeinated coffee + tea were constructed. Caffeine index 1 = (cups of caffeinated coffee + tea) – (cups of decaffeinated coffee + tea) consumed on the day of evaluation. Caffeine index 2 = (cups of caffeinated coffee + tea) – (cups of decaffeinated coffee + tea) consumed in a typical month. The percentage of coffee and tea that was caffeinated in a typical month was also calculated. Results: There were 263 individuals (190 FD-ET, 73 Co). Caffeine index 1 in FD-ET was less than 1-half that of Co (p = 0.001). Caffeine index 2 was similarly lower in FD-ET than Co (p = 0.027). The percentage of coffee and tea that was caffeinated in a typical month was also significantly lower in FD-ET than Co (p = 0.018). Conclusion: The balance of caffeinated to decaffeinated beverages is different in FD-ET than Co. These data raise several intriguing questions. Among these is whether relatives of ET cases modify their caffeine consumption before disease onset.
Femoral Trochleoplasty for Recurrent Patellar Dislocation: Treating the Underlying Trochlear Dysplasia
Authors: Jordao Santos Luís Fernando , Ranger Pierre , Delisle Josée , Fernandes Julio C.
Published: June 2018

The patellofemoral joint presents a complex biomechanical interaction involving soft tissues and bony structures to maintain joint stability. The most relevant factor is trochlear dysplasia which is present in 85% of patients. Femoral trochleoplasty is a surgical procedure to recreate the trochlear groove. This case report describes a young patient who had all clinical factors of patellar instability and trochlear dysplasia. Radiology studies showed trochlear dysplasia type C according to the Dejour classification. The patient underwent a trochleoplasty with an elevated flap of cartilage and subchondral bone as described by Ryzek and Schöttle [J Knee Surg 2015; 28(4): 297–302], associated with the reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament. Femoral trochleoplasty is a surgical procedure to recreate the trochlear groove by removing subchondral bone to create a new trochlear sulcus, while respecting the kinematics and biomechanics of the patellofemoral joint.
Regional Subclinical Cerebrovascular Disease Is Associated with Balance in an Elderly Multi-Ethnic Population
Authors: Willey Joshua Z. , Moon Yeseon P. , Dhamoon Mandip S. , Kulick Erin R. , Bagci Ahmet , Alperin Noam , Cheung Ying Kuen , Wright Clinton B. , Sacco Ralph L. , Elkind Mitchell S.V.
Published: June 2018

Introduction: White matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) and subclinical brain infarcts (SBI) are associated with impaired mobility, but less is known about the association of WMHV in specific brain regions. We hypothesized that anterior WMHV would be associated with lower scores on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), a well-validated mobility scale. Methods: The SPPB was measured a median of 5 years after enrollment into the Northern Manhattan MRI sub study. Volumetric distributions for WMHV in 14 brain regions as a proportion of total cranial volume were determined. Multi-variable linear regression was performed to examine the association of SBI and regional log-WMHV with the SPPB score. Results: Among 668 participants with SPPB measurements (mean 74 ± 9 years, 37% male and 70% Hispanic), the mean SPPB score was 8.2 ± 2.9. Total (beta = –0.3 per SD, p = 0.001), anterior periventricular (beta = –0.4 per SD, p = 0.001), parietal (beta = –0.2 per SD, p = 0.02) and frontal (beta = –0.3 per SD, p = 0.002) WMHVs were associated with SPPB; other WMHV and SBI were not associated with the SPPB. Conclusions: WMHV, especially in the anterior ­cerebral regions, is associated with a lower SPPB. Prevention of subclinical cerebrovascular disease is a potential target to prevent physical decline in the elderly.
Melatonin Synergizes with Sorafenib to Suppress Pancreatic Cancer via Melatonin Receptor and PDGFR-β/STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Fang Zhenghuan , Jung Kyung Hee , Yan Hong Hua , Kim Soo-Jung , Rumman Marufa , Park Jung Hee , Han Boreum , Lee Ji Eun , Kang Yeo wool , Lim Joo Han , Hong Soon Sun
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignant tumors with poor prognosis. Conventional chemotherapies including gemcitabine have failed owing to weak response and side effects. Hence novel treatment regimens are urgently needed to improve the therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we aimed to assess the anticancer activity of melatonin and sorafenib as a novel therapy against PDAC. Methods: We used various apoptosis assay and PDAC xenograft model to assess anticancer effect in vitro and in vivo. We applied phospho-receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) array and phospho-tyrosine kinase array to explore the mechanism of the combined therapy. Western blotting, proximity ligation assay, and immunoprecipitation assay were also performed for validation. Results: Melatonin synergized with sorafenib to suppress the growth of PDAC both in vitro and in vivo. The effect was due to increased apoptosis rate of PDAC cells that was accompanied by mitochondria dysfunction. The enhanced anticancer efficacy by the co-treatment could be explained by blockade of PDGFR-β/STAT3 signaling pathway and melatonin receptor (MT)-mediated STAT3. Conclusions: Melatonin reinforces the anticancer activity of sorafenib by downregulation of PDGFR-β/STAT3 signaling pathway and melatonin receptor (MT)-mediated STAT3. The combination of the two agents might be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating PDAC.
Gremlin1 Delivered by Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Promoted Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hong Dongxi , Liu Te , Huang Weijun , Liao Yan , Wang Lin , Zhang Zhen , Chen Haixuan , Zhang Xinchun , Xiang Qiuling
Published: June 2018

Backgroud/Aims: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Several studies focusing on tumor-derived MSCs have demonstrated that they exhibit a strong ability to promote the tumor epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the factors mediating these effects are poorly understood. Methods: Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry assays were used to detect the expression of Gremlin1 (GREM1) in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues. ShRNA silencing, flow cytometry, cell counting kit (CCK8) assay, invasion assay, western blot were used to detect the effect of GREM1 in ECa109, TE-1 cell lines and xenograft tumor models. Results: In the current study, we found that the GREM1 was overexpressed in human ESCC tissues. The conditioned medium from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs-CM) enhanced the malignancy of xenograft esophageal tumors in vivo, as well as the cell proliferation, viability and invasion of the esophageal carcinoma cell lines ECa109 and TE-1 in vitro. Furthermore, the shRNA silencing of GREM1 in MSCs (shGREM1-MSCs) reversed the increased malignancy of the esophageal tumor in vivo, while the conditioned medium from shGREM1-MSCs (shGREM1-MSCs-CM) affected the cell cycle and cell invasion in vitro. These processes were accompanied by the EMT in the ECa109 and TE-1 cell lines with an alteration in the expression levels of mesenchymal and epithelial markers. Furthermore, the TGF-β/BMP (transforming growth factor-beta/bone morphogenetic protein) signaling pathway participated in the shGREM1-MSCs-CM-induced anti-tumor effect on enhanced esophageal malignancy induced by MSCs-CM treatment. Conclusions: Taken together, our study suggested that GREM1 delivered by MSCs promoted EMT in ESCC in vitro and in vivo, which is partly through TGF-β/BMP signaling pathway. The results provide experimental evidence to a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
A Novel Approach to Estimate ROS Origination by Hyperbaric Oxygen Exposure, Targeted Probes and Specific Inhibitors
Authors: Zhou Quan , Huang Guoyang , Yu Xuhua , Xu Weigang
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considered fundamental in various physiological/pathophysiological processes and prevention/treatment measures such as hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy. In this study, the origination of ROS in human umbilical vein endothelial cells was investigated under basal and HBO conditions. Methods: Whole cell or mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probes were applied to mark superoxide anion (O2-), and the ROS produced from mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC), NADPH oxidase (NOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO) were identified by flow cytometry, confocal imaging and microplate fluorometry with or without specific inhibitors. An algorithm was established to calculate ROS proportion of each source. Results: HBO increased ROS to about 2.14-2.44 fold in mitochondria and 1.32-1.42 fold in whole cell. Then ROS levels were significantly decreased by MRC inhibition about 30% and 16%, respectively. NOX or XO inhibition did not affect HBO-induced ROS generation. Based on these data, it could be further estimated that mitochondrial ROS accounted for 32%-39% of basal whole-cell ROS including 3% from MRC complex II, and NOX accounted for at least 24%-29%. Following HBO treatment, almost all increased ROS originated from mitochondria, and MRC complex II contributed at least 45%-60%. Conclusion: This study provided a simple but effective method to estimate the origination of intracellular ROS and found that MRC were the main source of HBO-induced ROS generation.
A Rare Case of Pediatric Bullous Spontaneous Acute Urticaria
Authors: Gür Çetinkaya Pınar , Şekerel Bülent Enis , Soyer Özge Uysal , Şahiner Ümit Murat
Published: June 2018

Objective: Acute spontaneous bullous urticaria is an extremely rare entity, and there are few reports with blister formation in acute urticaria patients. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: We present a 2-year-old girl who was admitted for bullous spontaneous acute urticaria; the underlying reason for this was not detected. Nikolsky’s sign and Darier’s sign were negative. Lesions were not compatible with erythema multiforme. However, biopsy was not allowed to be performed. Because of this, the underlying pathogenesis could not be clarified. The patient recovered by a short course of antihistamine and systemic steroid treatment, and the lesions did not recur during a 2-year follow-up. Conclusion: Short-term systemic steroid in addition to oral antihistamines resulted in prompt recovery in a patient with acute urticaria complicated by bullae.
Cross-Sectional Associations Between Cardiac Biomarkers, Cognitive Performance, and Structural Brain Changes Are Modified by Age
Authors: Veugen Marja G.J. , Henry Ronald M.A. , Brunner-La Rocca Hans-Peter , Dagnelie Pieter C. , Schram Miranda T. , van Agtmaal Marnix J.M. , van der Kallen Carla J.H. , Sep Simone J.S. , van Boxtel Martin P.J. , Bekers Otto , Meex Steven J.R. , Jansen Jacobus F.A. , Kroon Abraham A. , Stehouwer Coen D.A.
Published: June 2018

Objective—

NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) and cardiac troponin T (cTNT) are associated with cognitive performance. Whether this extends to individuals <60 years of age is unclear. We investigated whether age modified the associations between NT-proBNP and cTNT and cognitive performance and structural brain changes.

Approach and Results—

In 3011 individuals (60±8 years; 49% women), NT-proBNP and cTNT, memory, information processing speed and executive functioning, grey matter (GM) and white matter, and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volumes were determined. We used regression, adjusted for educational level, cardiovascular factors, and lifestyle factors, to test whether cross-sectional associations between biomarkers and cognitive performance and structural brain changes were modified by age (<60 versus ≥60 years). ≥60 years, higher NT-proBNP was associated with lower memory (β [SD] per 10-fold higher level [95% confidence interval (CI)], −0.11 [−0.22 to −0.00]), information processing speed (−0.12 [95% CI, −0.21 to −0.03]), executive functioning (−0.12 [95% CI, −0.22 to −0.03]), and smaller GM (β [mL] per 10-fold higher level, −6.89 [95% CI, −11.58 to −2.20]). Additionally, higher cTNT was associated with lower memory (−0.33 [95% CI, −0.53 to −0.12]) and information processing speed (−0.17 [95% CI, −0.3 to −0.01]); with smaller GM (−16.07 [95% CI, −24.90 to −7.24]) and greater WMH (10
β
WMH per 10-fold higher level, 0.31 [95% CI, 0.10–0.52]). <60 years, NT-proBNP and cTNT were not associated with cognitive performance (
P
interaction
, <0.10). In contrast, higher NT-proBNP was associated with smaller GM (−7.43 [95% CI, −11.70 to −3.16]) and greater WMH (0.13 [95% CI, 0.01–0.25];
P
interaction
,>0.10). Higher cTNT was associated with greater WMH (0.18 [95% CI, −0.01 to 0.37];
P
interaction
,>0.10) but not with GM (0.07 [95% CI, −6.87 to 7.02];
P
interaction
, <0.10).

Conclusions—

Biomarkers of cardiac injury are continuously associated with structural brain changes in both older and younger individuals but with poorer cognitive performance only in older individuals. These findings stress the continuous nature of the heart-brain axis in the development of cognitive impairment.
Transnational Support for Urban Climate Adaptation: Emerging Forms of Agency and Dependency
Authors: Chu Eric K.
Published: June 2018

Transnational actors are critical for financing programs and generating awareness around climate change adaptation in cities. However, it is unclear whether transnational support actually enables more authority over adaptation actions and whether outcomes address wide-ranging development needs. In this article, I compare experiences from three cities in India—Surat, Indore, and Bhubaneswar—and link local political agency over adaptation with their supporting transnational funders. I find that adaptation governance involves powers of agency over directing bureaucratic practices, public finance, spatial strategies, and institutional culture. A city’s ability to exert these powers then yields different patterns of adaptation. However, political agency is circumscribed by a combination of historical political economic constraints and emerging transnational resources that promote specific forms of political meaning and procedures. The presence of external support therefore paradoxically constrains the governance autonomy of cities. This opens up new opportunities for development dependency—that is, ones that mirror neoliberal critiques of foreign aid—within the global marketplace for climate finance.
An Inquiry into the Formation of Readership in Early China: Using and Producing the *Yong yue 用曰 and Yinshu 引書 Manuscripts
Authors: Krijgsman Rens
Published: June 2018

The material features of the Shanghai Museum *Yong yue 用曰 and Zhangjiashan Yinshu 引書 manuscripts structure their texts in ways different from each other, inviting questions on production methods and the influence of form on the reception of content. I provide an overview of developments in manuscript formatting, noting a gradual development towards increased visual formatting in manuscripts over time. The article examines what the use of codicological features such as manuscript materiality, layout, and punctuation reveal about manuscript production and how these translate to the reception and understanding of text. It analyzes how such features in the two manuscripts contribute to a sense of textual unity, order their respective contents, and facilitate different modes of reading such as vocalization, memorization, browsing, and linear reading. I propose that developments in manuscript formatting increasingly facilitated visually clearer, context-independent, and text-centered modes of reading, allowing for a dynamic involvement of readers with the modes of engagement structurally favored by the manuscripts. This, in turn, possibly reveals broader shifts towards the formation of readership in Early China.
New species and new records in the genus Conocybe (Bolbitaceae) from China
Authors: LIU JING , BAU TOLGOR
Published: June 2018

Two new species of Conocybe cylindrospora sp. nov., C. serrata sp. nov. are described herein with details illustration and morpho taxonomic features. In addition, two species like Conocybe fuscimarginata (Murrill) Singer and Pholiotina vexans (P.D. Orton) Bon are also reported for the first time from China. Molecular phylogenetic studies based on nrITS data help to distinguish the newly described species from all of its relatives. Conocybe cylindropora is characterized by its conical, hygrophanous pileus coloured orange, cylindrical to ellipsoid-oblong basidiospores, presence of lecithyform caulocystidia with a 2–4 μm long neck and a small glabrous head. Conocybe serrata is characterized by dentate veil on the pileus and basidiospores without germ pore.
A new species of Leielmis Delève, 1964, with a revised key to members of the genus (Coleoptera: Elmidae)
Authors: BILTON DAVID T.
Published: June 2018

The genus Leielmis was recently revised by Bilton (2017), who established the identity of the type species Leielmis georyssoides (Grouvelle, 1890), and described two new taxa: Leielmis gibbosus Bilton, 2017, widespread in the Cape Fold Mountains and Leielmis hirsutus Bilton, 2017, known to date only from a single site at high altitude in the Groote Winterhoek mountains. A distinctive new species of Leielmis was discovered in a high altitude stream in 2017 in the Hexrivierberge, being collected whilst the generic revision was in press! This species is described below, and a modified key to Leielmis species presented. In light of this discovery it appears likely that further work at high altitude will reveal additional species in the Cape.
Callogorgia lucaya sp. nov., a new species of deep-sea Primnoidae (Anthozoa: Octocorallia) from the western Atlantic
Authors: CORDEIRO RALF T. S. , BAYER FREDERICK M. , CAIRNS STEPHEN D.
Published: June 2018

As part of an ongoing reassessment of the genus Callogorgia, we describe C. lucaya sp. nov. from the western Atlantic, with a distribution so far restricted to the Straits of Florida and northern Caribbean. The species was partially described in an unfinished manuscript of Dr. Frederick Bayer and differs from all other western Atlantic species by commonly lacking outer-lateral body wall scales, having a small number of abaxials, and having body wall sclerites that are externally almost smooth. (Species Zoobank LSID: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:CF8F92FC-8F8A-4A8C-AF4A-52E12B58F7B1)
Assessment of Alaska Rain-on-Snow Events Using Dynamical Downscaling
Authors: Bieniek Peter A. , Bhatt Uma S. , Walsh John E. , Lader Rick , Griffith Brad , Roach Jennifer K. , Thoman Richard L.
Published: June 2018

The ice formed by cold-season rainfall or rain on snow (ROS) has striking impacts on the economy and ecology of Alaska. An understanding of the atmospheric drivers of ROS events is required to better predict them and plan for environmental change. The spatially/temporally sparse network of stations in Alaska makes studying such events challenging, and gridded reanalysis or remote sensing products are necessary to fill the gaps. Recently developed dynamically downscaled climate data provide a new suite of high-resolution variables for investigating historical and projected ROS events across all of Alaska from 1979 to 2100. The dynamically downscaled reanalysis data of ERA-Interim replicated the seasonal patterns of ROS events but tended to produce more rain events than in station observations. However, dynamical downscaling reduced the bias toward more rain events in the coarse reanalysis. ROS occurred most frequently over southwestern and southern coastal regions. Extreme events with the heaviest rainfall generally coincided with anomalous high pressure centered to the south/southeast of the locations receiving the event and warm-air advection from the resulting southwesterly wind flow. ROS events were projected to increase in frequency overall and for extremes across most of the region but were expected to decline over southwestern/southern Alaska. Increases in frequency were projected as a result of more frequent winter rainfall, but the number of ROS events may ultimately decline in some areas as a result of temperatures rising above the freezing threshold. These projected changes in ROS can significantly affect wildlife, vegetation, and human activities across the Alaska landscape.
Cloud-Spacing Effects upon Entrainment and Rainfall along a Convective Line
Authors: Moser Daniel H. , Lasher-Trapp Sonia
Published: June 2018

Cumulus clouds modify their immediate surroundings by detraining their warm, humid updrafts. When clouds are closely spaced, this conditioning of the local environment may alter the properties of the air entrained by neighboring clouds and slow their dilution. This effect has not been quantified, nor has its importance been determined for influencing the amount of convective rainfall from a system of neighboring clouds. Here, a series of idealized numerical simulations, which are based on an observed line of precipitating cumulus congestus clouds, is performed using increasingly smaller cloud spacing to investigate how cloud proximity may alter entrainment, cloud development, and convective rainfall. For clouds of radius R, which is approximately 1 km in these simulations, distances between updraft centers from 4R through 9R are tested. Over this range, the initial clouds all exhibit negligible differences in the directly calculated entrainment rates and in the thermodynamic characteristics of the entrained air. Instead, for cloud separation distances of less than 6R, the subcloud inflow is increasingly disturbed, limiting initial cloud depths and slowing updraft speeds and precipitation onset. Ultimately, however, these same cases produce a new generation of clouds that are stronger and produce more rainfall than for all other cases. The smaller cloud separation distance allows precipitation outflows from the initial clouds to meet and force new, stronger cloud updrafts. For this second generation of clouds, their entrained air is slightly more humid, but the stronger updrafts and ingestion of residual ice and precipitation from earlier clouds appear to be most important for enhancing their rainfall.
External Nasal Valve Repair in Children: Alar Batten Graft Reinforced by External Temporary Suspensory Suture
Authors: Elsayed Ahmed Ibrahim , Fouad Yasser Ahmed , El Malt Ashraf , Sweed Ahmed Hassan
Published: June 2018

Background:

The nasal valve area is the narrowest point in the nasal airway. External nasal valve (ENV) collapse during inspiration occurs if external valve area is too narrow or its lateral component is too floppy.

Patients and Method:

Twelve patients (7 males, 5 females) aged 8 to 12 years complaining of nasal obstruction due to ENV dysfunction underwent surgical intervention using alar batten graft assisted by temporary external suspensory suture.

Results:

All patients showed subjective and objective improvement of the nasal airway. The mean Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) was 14 ± 1.71 before surgery and 7.83 ± 1.47 1 year after surgery (significant improvement, p ≤ .0001). The mean Peak Inspiratory Flow Rate was 29.92 ± 4.46 before surgery and 42.58 ± 4.93 1 year after surgery (significant improvement, P ≤ .0001).

Conclusion:

External nasal valve collapse in children can be managed surgically by using alar batten graft. Temporary suspension suture can be helpful for supporting of the graft until complete healing occurs.
Signals of Support From Great Power Patrons and the Use of Repression During Nonviolent Protests
Authors: Tolstrup Jakob , Seeberg Michael Aagaard , Glavind Johanne Grøndahl
Published: June 2018

When autocrats face threats of nonviolent mass mobilization, they are likely to respond with repression. However, when will the autocrat initiate, step up, or downscale repressive behavior during such protest events? We propose that signals of support from great power patrons play a pivotal role in emboldening rulers to engage in and intensify repressive behavior. To probe this hypothesis, we analyze how supportive and nonsupportive actions and statements of the great powers in the United Nations Security Council shape the repressive behavior of authoritarian regimes during three recent, and similar, cases of protest events: Burma 2007, Zimbabwe 2008, and Burkina Faso 2014. The cases show that the more unequivocal and consistent patron support for the besieged regime is the firmer and more violent are the responses to the domestic challengers.
Uncovering the Nexus Between Attitudes, Preferences, and Behavior in Sociological Applications of Stated Choice Experiments
Authors: Liebe Ulf , Mariel Petr , Beyer Heiko , Meyerhoff Jürgen
Published: June 2018

Multifactorial survey experiments such as stated choice experiments are used more and more frequently in social science research. In this article, based on an experimental study on ethical and political consumption, we explore the potential of hybrid choice models to explicitly model latent psychological factors such as attitudes, overcoming a possible endogeneity bias and misrepresentation of causality. To this end, we employ a hybrid latent class choice model (HLCCM) in which the latent class structure allocates individuals to classes according to underlying latent attitudes that also influence the answers to attitudinal questions. This allows, in line with sociological action theories, a theory-guided testing of preference segmentation and modification caused by attitudes. We compare the complex HLCCM with less complex models that do not take the latent variable nature of attitudes into account and discuss in which cases less complex models might be more appropriate. However, the HLCCM always has the advantage of providing structure for theory testing and is therefore a useful tool to uncover preference heterogeneity, preference modification, and decision-making processes in sociological and other social science research.
Can bone-regulating hormones and nutrients help characterize the metabolically healthy obese phenotype
Authors: Sukumar Deeptha , Becker Kendra B , Cheung May , Diamond Samantha , Duszak Rittane , Aljahdali Abeer , Volpe Stella L , Nasser Jennifer A
Published: June 2018

Background:

Bone-regulating hormones and nutrients play an important role in influencing metabolic health.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine whether bone-regulating hormones and nutrients, such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), and magnesium (Mg) could be used to characterize the metabolically healthy obese (MHO) phenotype.

Methods:

This study included 27 overweight or obese participants (14 men/13 women) classified as MHO ( n = 14) or metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) ( n = 13) based on the presence or absence of metabolic abnormalities, determined by percentage body fat, percentage trunk fat, and waist circumference. Biochemical (serum concentrations of hormones and cytokines such as PTH, 25OHD, ionized Mg (iMg), cytokines, lipids, glycemic indices), physiological (percentage body fat, percentage trunk fat, blood pressure (BP)), and dietary intake (Mg intake, calcium intake) measurements were obtained.

Results:

Serum PTH concentrations were significantly lower ( p = 0.005) in the MHO group (39.68 ± 11.06 pg/mL) compared with the MUO group (63.78 ± 25.82 pg/mL). Serum iMg concentrations were higher ( p = 0.052) in the MHO group (0.565 ± 0.41 mmol/L) than in the MUO group (0.528 ± 0.050 mmol/L). Serum concentrations of osteocalcin were also higher (10.37 ± 3.70 ng/mL) in the MHO compared with the MUO (6.51 ± 4.14 ng/mL) group ( p = 0.017). The MHO group had significantly lower serum insulin concentrations ( p = 0.006) and diastolic BP ( p = 0.035). Concentrations of serum 25OHD, total triglycerides, C-reactive protein and systolic BP did not differ between groups.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that bone-regulating hormones and nutrients, especially serum PTH, osteocalcin concentrations, and dietary Mg intakes, can help to characterize the MHO phenotype.
Changes in Th1/Th2-producing cytokines during acute exacerbation chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wei Bing , Sheng Li Chun
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study aimed to explore cytokine serum levels and the ratio of type 1 T helper (Th1)/Th2 cells in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD).

Methods

A total 245 patients diagnosed with AECOPD and 193 patients who progressed to stable COPD after the initiation of treatment in hospital were selected, while a further 50 healthy individuals served as controls. All patients with COPD were diagnosed using Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease criteria. Serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)-2, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, and immunoglobulin (Ig)E were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

AECOPD patients had higher levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, and IgE than those with stable COPD or controls. Intriguingly, the ratios of Th1/Th2 and IL-17/IgE were lower in AECOPD patients compared with the other two groups. These data suggest that AECOPD patients produce more IgE and have more differentiated Th2 cells than other groups.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that an imbalance of circulating CD4+ T cell subsets correlates with AECOPD, and that a shift of Th1/Th2 and IL-17/IgE ratios may be caused by increased Th2 cell production.
From Snapshots to Movies: The Association Between Retirement Sequences and Aging Trajectories in Limitations to Perform Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Azar Ariel , Staudinger Ursula M. , Slachevsky Andrea , Madero-Cabib Ignacio , Calvo Esteban
Published: June 2018

Objective: This study analyzes the dynamic association between retirement sequences and activities of daily living (ADLs) trajectories between ages 60 and 70. Method: Retirement sequences previously established for 7,880 older Americans from the Health and Retirement Study were used in hierarchical linear and propensity score full matching models, analyzing their association with ADL trajectories. Results: Sequences of partial retirement from full- or part-time jobs showed higher baseline and slower decline in ADL than sequences characterized by early labor force disengagement. Discussion: The conventional model in which people completely retire from a full-time job at normative ages and the widely promoted new conventional model of late retirement are both associated with better functioning than early labor force disengagement. But unconventional models, where older adults keep partially engaged with the labor force are also significantly associated with better functioning. These findings call attention to more research on potential avenues to simultaneously promote productive engagement and health later in life.
Anti-snow performance of snow shields designed for brake calipers of a high-speed train
Authors: Wang Jiabin , Gao Guangjun , Zhang Yan , He Kan , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2018

When high-speed trains run on a snowy railway line in cold weather, a large amount of snow and ice will accumulate on the brake calipers, which can lead to huge safety problems. In this paper, to solve this issue, a numerical method based on the detached eddy simulation was used to explore the flow features of a high-speed train running in cold weather. The accuracy of mesh resolution and methodology of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was validated against the wind tunnel tests. A discrete phase model was used to investigate the process of snow accumulation on the brake calipers by analysing the movement characteristics of snow particles. Based on this analysis, three kinds of anti-snow packing shields for the brake calipers were designed, and the shielding effects were compared via numerical simulations. The results show that a large amount of snow particles below the bogie directly impact the brake calipers causing massive snow packing on the bottom surfaces; some snow particles reflected from the rear equipment cabin cover return to the bogie region and accumulates on the upper surfaces. With the application of anti-snow packing shields with trapezoidal-, triangular- and cambered-shaped openings, the rates of snow accumulation on the brake calipers were reduced by 18.53, 26.68 and 38.81%, respectively. The cambered type provides the best anti-snow packing performance for the brake calipers.
Usability Testing of an Interactive Virtual Reality Distraction Intervention to Reduce Procedural Pain in Children and Adolescents With Cancer
Authors: Birnie Kathryn A. , Kulandaivelu Yalinie , Jibb Lindsay , Hroch Petra , Positano Karyn , Robertson Simon , Campbell Fiona , Abla Oussama , Stinson Jennifer
Published: June 2018

Purpose: Needle procedures are among the most distressing aspects of pediatric cancer-related treatment. Virtual reality (VR) distraction offers promise for needle-related pain and distress given its highly immersive and interactive virtual environment. This study assessed the usability (ease of use and understanding, acceptability) of a custom VR intervention for children with cancer undergoing implantable venous access device (IVAD) needle insertion. Method: Three iterative cycles of mixed-method usability testing with semistructured interviews were undertaken to refine the VR. Results: Participants included 17 children and adolescents (8-18 years old) with cancer who used the VR intervention prior to or during IVAD access. Most participants reported the VR as easy to use (82%) and understand (94%), and would like to use it during subsequent needle procedures (94%). Based on usability testing, refinements were made to VR hardware, software, and clinical implementation. Refinements focused on increasing responsiveness, interaction, and immersion of the VR program, reducing head movement for VR interaction, and enabling participant alerts to steps of the procedure by clinical staff. No adverse events of nausea or dizziness were reported. Conclusions: The VR intervention was deemed acceptable and safe. Next steps include assessing feasibility and effectiveness of the VR intervention for pain and distress.
Numerical analysis on shape memory alloy–based adaptive shock control bump
Authors: Hao Lin , Qiu Jinhao , Ji Hongli , Nie Rui
Published: June 2018

A three-dimensional adaptive shock control bump made of shape memory alloy is proposed for transonic wings. The methodology to adaptively change the configuration of the airfoil using the shape memory alloy bump to reduce the shock strength and wave drag is numerically demonstrated using an airfoil RAE2822. The shape memory alloy bump is trained to have a flat initial shape with certain initial strain and can swell up when thermally activated. Boyd–Lagoudas phenomenological model is implemented in finite element method and used to compute the two-dimensional profile and the height of the shape memory alloy bump during thermal activation. The results show that the shape memory alloy bump can generate a considerable deflection due to the reverse phase transformation when thermally activated. The dependence of aerodynamic characteristics of the wing on the height of the shape memory alloy bump and the angle of attack is investigated using computational fluid dynamics method. The results show that there is an optimal bump height for a given angle of attack and the bump with a given height is effective only in certain range of angle of attack. Optimization of bump height and the corresponding driving temperature are carried out under variable angles of attack with the lift-to-drag ratio as the objective function.