bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fingerprint Protected Password Authentication Protocol
Authors: Yang Chao , Zhang Junwei , Guo Jingjing , Zheng Yu , Yang Li , Ma Jianfeng
Published: June 2019

With the rapid development of industrial Internet of things (IIOT), a variety of cloud services have been deployed to store and process the big data of IIOT. The traditional password only authentication is unable to meet the needs of security situation in IIOT. Therefore, a lot of mobile phone assisted password authentication schemes have been proposed. However, in existing schemes, the secret information is required to be stored in the user’s mobile phone. Once the phone is lost, the secret information may be obtained by the opponent, which will bring irreparable loss to the user. To address the above problems, we propose a fingerprint protected password authentication scheme which has no need to store the secret parameter in the mobile phone. When a user logs in, he uses his mobile phone to generate the private key which is used to decrypt the encrypted text generated during the registration phase. The process of generating the private key needs to enter the password and the fingerprint. When the computer interacts with the mobile phone, the user’s password will be blinded so that it can protect the user’s password from adversary’s attacks. Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that our scheme improves the security of the user’s secret. Meanwhile, our scheme can resist the opponent’s dictionary attacks, replay attacks, and phishing attack. Our scheme can reduce the storage pressure of the mobile phone and is easy to deploy.
Multiphysics Model of an MR Damper including Magnetic Hysteresis
Authors: Kubík M. , Goldasz J.
Published: June 2019

Hysteresis is one of key factors influencing the output of magnetorheological (MR) actuators. The actuators reveal two primary sources of hysteresis. The hydro(mechanical) hysteresis can be related to flow dynamics mechanisms and is frequency‐ or rate‐dependent. For comparison, the magnetic hysteresis is an inherent property of ferromagnetic materials forming the magnetic circuit of the actuators. The need for a good quality hysteresis model has been early recognized in studies on MR actuators; however, few studies have provided models which could be used in the design stage. In the paper we reveal a hybrid multiphysics model of a flow‐mode MR actuator which could be used for that purpose. The model relies on the information which can be extracted primarily from material datasheets and engineering drawings. We reveal key details of the model and then verify it against measured data. Finally, we employ it in a parameter sensitivity study to examine the influence of magnetic hysteresis and other relevant factors on the output of the actuator.
Left Atrial Appendage Management with the Watchman Device during Hybrid Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Vroomen Mindy , Maesen Bart , Luermans Justin G. , Crijns Harry J. , Maessen Jos G. , La Meir Mark , Pison Laurent
Published: June 2019

Background. In the recent ESC/EACTS guidelines, left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion or exclusion in patients undergoing (thoracoscopic) atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation surgery is recommended. The Watchman device (WD, Boston Scientific, Minnesota) has proved to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events by closing of the LAA, yet no data exist on WD implantation during surgical AF ablation. The objective is to determine if WD implantation is safe and feasible in a hybrid AF ablation setting (i.e., combination of thoracoscopic epicardial surgical and endocardial catheter ablation) and could become subject of further testing to serve as a bail-out in cases in which surgical LAA occlusion methods cannot be applied, due to, for example, severe adhesions. Methods. In this prospective, single center, pilot study, 10 consecutive patients undergoing a hybrid ablation qualifying for LAA exclusion (CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 1) were included. At the end of the hybrid ablation, the LAA was occluded endocardially using the WD. The feasibility endpoint was successful implantation. The safety endpoint concerned major complications. Results. One patient was excluded and replaced because the LAA was insufficiently visible on transesophageal echocardiography. In 10/11 patients, device delivery was successful (mean time: 35 minutes). No major complications occurred. Transesophageal echocardiography after 6 weeks and 6 months showed successful occlusion of the LAA without significant peridevice flow. Conclusion. Implantation of the WD seems to be feasible and safe in the setting of hybrid AF ablation and could be an alternative to epicardial occlusion in surgical AF ablation procedures. Larger studies are required to confirm these findings. This trial is registered with NCT02471131.
Dynamic Traffic Prediction with Adaptive Sampling for 5G HetNet IoT Applications
Authors: Wu Shuangli , Mao Wei , Liu Cong , Tang Tao
Published: June 2019

Due to the proliferation of global monitoring sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT) is widely used to build smart cities and smart homes. 5G HetNets play an important role in the IoT video stream. This paper proposes an improved Call Session Control Function (CSCF) scheme. The improved CSCF server contains additional modules to facilitate IoT traffic prediction and resource reservation. We highlight traffic prediction in this work and develop a compressed sensing based linear predictor to catch the traffic patterns. Experimental results justify that our proposed scheme can forecast the traffic load with high accuracy but low sampling overhead.
Phenotypic Characterization and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase- and AmpC β-Lactamase-Producing Gram-Negative Bacteria in a Referral Hospital, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ibrahim Mutasim E. , Abbas Mohammed , Al-Shahrai Abdullah M. , Elamin Bahaeldin K.
Published: June 2019

Background. Emergence of pathogenic bacteria carrying β-lactamase-resistant determinants has become a major health problem in the hospital setting. The study aimed to determine antibiotic-resistant patterns and frequency of extended-spectrum β-lactamase- (ESBL-) producing Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) and AmpC β-lactamase-producing GNB. Methodology. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted during a period from September 2017 to August 2018 at King Abdullah Hospital, Bisha Province, Saudi Arabia. GNB (n = 311) were recovered from patients’ clinical specimens including sputum, urine, wound pus, blood, tracheal aspirates and high vaginal swabs, umbilical discharge, eye discharge, and cerebrospinal fluids. Isolates were identified by the Phoenix identification system. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested by the Kirby–Bauer disk procedure. Phenotypic characterization of ESBLs and AmpC β-lactamases was performed utilizing the double-disk synergy test and inhibitor-based method, respectively. Associations with outcome measures were determined by simple descriptive statistics and a chi-square test. Results. Out of 311 GNB isolates, the frequency of ESBL and AmpC β-lactamase producers was 84 (27%) and 101 (32.5%), respectively. Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli were common ESBL producers. AmpC β-lactamases predominate among Acinetobacter spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Coproduction of ESBLs and AmpC β-lactamases was found in 36 (11.6%) isolates, with very close relative frequencies among K. pneumoniae, Acinetobacter spp., and P. aeruginosa. β-Lactamase producers were predominantly found in the surgical department (56.5%) and ICUs (44.2%). ESBL producers revealed high resistance for cefuroxime (96.4%), cefotaxime (92.9%), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (90.5%). The resistance rates were significantly higher among ESBL producers than nonproducers for cephalosporins (p<0.001), amoxicillin/clavulanate (p<0.001), piperacillin/tazobactam (p=0.010), nitrofurantoin (p=0.027), aztreonam (p<0.001), ciprofloxacin (p=0.002), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (p<0.001). Significantly higher (p<0.05) resistance rates were observed among AmpC β-lactamase producers than nonproducers for all tested antibiotics. Conclusions. This finding showed a high prevalence of ESBL- and AmpC β-lactamase-producing GNB in our hospital. Quality control practice and routine detection of β-lactamase producers before deciding on antibiotic therapy are advocated.
An Uncertain Aggregate Production Planning Model Considering Investment in Vegetable Preservation Technology
Authors: Ning Yufu , Pang Na , Wang Xiao
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we study the aggregate production planning problem for vegetables within the framework of uncertainty theory. In detail, preservation technology investment is taken into consideration to reduce the deterioration rate and improve the freshness of the vegetables. Meanwhile, an expected profit model considering preservation technology investment under the capacity constraints is built, whose objective is to find the optimal yield, workforce, and preservation investment strategies. Moreover, the proposed model can be transformed into its crisp equivalent form. Finally, a numerical example is carried out to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed uncertain aggregate production planning model.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 12 Randomized Controlled Trials Evaluating the Efficacy of Invasive Radiofrequency Treatment for Knee Pain and Function
Authors: Hong Tao , Wang Haiyuan , Li Guangxiao , Yao Peng , Ding Yuanyuan
Published: June 2019

Radiofrequency (RF) treatment is an invasive and promising procedure in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). A meta-analysis based on 12 RCT studies was to investigate whether invasive RF treatment is more effective in relieving knee pain and improving knee function. Relevant studies were searched on database of Pubmed, Embase, EBSCO, Cochrane library, Wanfang digital database, VIP database, and CNKI up to January 2018. A total of 841 participants from 12 publications were included. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and the corresponding 95% CIs were used to evaluate the difference in pain scores and OKS/WOMAC scores between RF treatment and control groups. The statistical analysis was performed by Stata 12.0. The pain scores (VAS) in the RF group were lower than those in the conservative treatment group after 1 week (WMD -1.77, 95% CI -2.93 to -0.61, P<0.01), 1 month (WMD -1.40, 95% CI -1.98 to -0.82, P<0.01), and 3 months (WMD -1.32, 95% CI -2.27 to -0.37, P<0.01) of treatment, while there was no significant improvement in knee function. In subgroup analyses by site of radiofrequency, RF mode showed some discrepancies in the WMD of VAS between the treatment and control groups. In addition, subgroup analysis and meta-regression showed that the efficacy of RF treatment for reducing pain is reversely related to female ratio, and we did not find any surgery-related adverse reactions. RF treatment significantly reduces the knee pain, but rarely improves the knee joint function. Radiofrequency ablation has better efficacy than pulsed radiofrequency ablation in reducing pain. Furthermore, subgroup analysis and meta-regression suggested that women are more sensitive to RF treatment than men.
iRGD: A Promising Peptide for Cancer Imaging and a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Various Cancers
Authors: Zuo Houdong
Published: June 2019

Poor penetration into the tumor parenchyma and the reduced therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs and other medications are the major problems in tumor treatment. A new tumor-homing and penetrating peptide, iRGD (CRGDK/RGPD/EC), can be effectively used to combine and deliver imaging agents or anticancer drugs into tumors. The different “vascular zip codes” expressed in different tissues can serve as targets for docking-based (synaptic) delivery of diagnostic and therapeutic molecules.αv-Integrins are abundantly expressed in the tumor vasculature, where they are recognized by peptides containing the RGD integrin recognition motif. The iRGD peptide follows a multistep tumor-targeting process: First, it is proteolytically cleaved to generate the CRGDK fragment by binding to the surface of cells expressingαv integrins (αvβ3 andαvβ5). Then, the fragment binds to neuropilin-1 and penetrates the tumor parenchyma more deeply. Compared with conventional RGD peptides, the affinity of iRGD forαv integrins is in the mid to low nanomolar range, and the CRGDK fragment has a stronger affinity for neuropilin-1 than that forαv integrins because of the C-terminal exposure of a conditional C-end Rule (CendR) motif (R/KXXR/K), whose receptor proved to be neuropilin-1. Consequently, these advantages facilitate the transfer of CRGDK fragments from integrins to neuropilin-1 and consequently deeper penetration into the tumor. Due to its specific binding and strong affinity, the iRGD peptide can deliver imaging agents and anticancer drugs into tumors effectively and deeply, which is useful in detecting the tumor, blocking tumor growth, and inhibiting tumor metastasis. This review aims to focus on the role of iRGD in the imaging and treatment of various cancers.
Circular RNA hsa_circ_0007142 Is Upregulated and Targets miR-103a-2-5p in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhu Chang-li , Sha Xiaofeng , Wang Yuan , Li Jin , Zhang Men-yan , Guo Zhong-ying , Sun Su-an , He Jing-dong
Published: June 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large class of endogenous noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and mainly function as microRNA sponges. This study aimed to explore the aberrant expression of circRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC). Using a circRNA microarray, we identified 892 differentially expressed circRNAs between six pairs of CRC and adjacent paracancerous tissues. Among them, hsa_circ_0007142 was significantly upregulated. Further analysis in 50 CRC clinical samples revealed that hsa_circ_0007142 upregulation was associated with poor differentiation and lymphatic metastasis of CRC. Bioinformatic analysis and luciferase reporter assay showed that hsa_circ_0007142 targeted miR-103a-2-5p in CRC cells. Moreover, the silencing of hsa_circ_0007142 by siRNAs decreased the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HT-29 and HCT-116 cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that hsa_circ_0007142 is upregulated in CRC and targets miR-103a-2-5p to promote CRC.
PLA2R-Negative Membranous Nephropathy Presenting as a Prodrome of IgG4-Related Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Authors: Velegraki Magdalini , Stylianou Kostas G. , Xydakis Dimitrios , Gakiopoulou Hariklia , Voudoukis Evangelos , Lygerou Dimitra , Dermitzaki Eleftheria-Kleio , Mpitouli Aphrodite , Paspatis Gregorios , Theodoropoulou Angeliki
Published: June 2019

Membranous nephropathy (MN) with tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) is an established manifestation of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease (IgG4-RD). A pathological feature aiming to distinguish between primary and secondary MN is the presence or absence of glomerular staining for phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R), respectively. Isolated MN without TIN has been rarely reported in the context of IgG4-RD. This case report describes a patient with a history of MN successfully treated with steroids and cyclophosphamide, who, 3 years later, presented with unexplained exacerbation of diabetes mellitus due to IgG4-related autoimmune pancreatitis. Pancreatitis was treated, and diabetes improved after treatment with steroids. Based on the presence of isolated IgG4 glomerular capillary deposits along with negative staining for PLA2R and the metachronous appearance of autoimmune pancreatitis, MN was retrospectively classified as secondary to IgG4-RD. Isolated IgG4-positive/PLA2R-negative MN without TIN can be a prodrome of IgG4-RD, reminiscent of MN secondary to neoplasms.
Rare Cases of Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm: Two Case Reports and a Literature Review
Authors: Yanagawa Senichiro , Yoshinaka Hisaaki , Tanji Hidehiro , Kodama Shinya , Takeshima Yukio , Sumimoto Kazuo
Published: June 2019

Appendiceal mucocele (AM) is rare disease found in <1% of all appendectomy specimens. AM is often misdiagnosed as appendicitis because the most frequent symptom is right lower quadrant abdominal pain. AM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain. Although there are pathological classifications, surgical resection is accepted as the treatment to prevent the development of peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PP); however, the optimal surgical technique that must be used is unclear. We present two cases suspected of being AM prior to surgery that were pathologically diagnosed as low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms. Each case progressed without developing PP. The surgical procedures we chose are considered appropriate for each case.
Jurisprudência e Ementário
Authors: Direito Sanitário Revista de
Published: June 2019

Seleção de decisões judiciais sobre o direito à saúde em cortes da África do Sul, Argentina, Bolívia, Peru, Uruguai.
Contributions to the knowledge of moths of Bombycoidea Latreille, 1802 (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) of Bhutan with new records
Authors: Irungbam Jatishwor Singh , Irungbam Meenakshi Jatishwor
Published: June 2019

An annotated checklist of the superfamily Bombycoidea (Lepidoptera) of Bhutan is given, including three taxa of the family Bombycidae, two of Brahmaeidae, four of Endromidae, 12 of Eupterotidae, 37 of Saturniidae, and 93 of Sphingidae.  Among these, 14 taxa are new records for the country: two Bombycidae (Penicillifera apicalis (Walker, 1862) and Trilocha varians (Moore, 1855)), two Endromidae (Mustilizans hepatica (Moore, 1879) and Comparmustilia sphingiformis (Moore, 1879)), three Saturniidae (Saturnia cidosa Moore, 1865, Loepa sikkima (Moore, [1866]), and Salassa thespis (Leech, 1890)), and seven Sphingidae (Rhodoprasina floralis (Butler, 1876), Amplypterus mansoni mansoni (Clark, 1924), Acosmerycoides harterti (Rothschild, 1895), Hippotion celerio (Linnaeus, 1758), Theretra tibetiana Vaglia & Haxaire, 2010, T. silhetensis silhetensis (Walker, 1856), and Cechenena helops helops (Walker, 1856)).
A checklist of mammals of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kamalakannan Manokaran , Nameer Paingamadathil Ommer
Published: June 2019

A checklist of mammals of Tamil Nadu State is presented in this paper. Accepted English names, scientific binomen, prevalent vernacular names in Tamil, IUCN conservation status, Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act schedules, the appendices in the CITES, endemism, the distribution of species in India, the Western Ghats & plains of Tamil Nadu, and the complete bibliography pertaining to the 132 species of mammals of Tamil Nadu are given.
The On the importance of alpha behavior integrity in male Capybara Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Mammalia: Rodentia: Caviidae) following immuno-contraceptive treatment
Authors: Rosenfield Derek Andrew , Schilbach Pizzutto Cristiane
Published: June 2019

As the human population continues to grow, habitat for wildlife shrinks, driving fauna either into extinction or into new habitats, which can create new problems.  In Brazil, the Capybara Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris has become a pest by invading urban and agricultural areas.  These mammals quickly multiply owing to abundant food supply and a lack of natural predators, and they can serve as amplifying hosts for Rickettsia rickettsii, the pathogen of potentially life-threatening Brazilian spotted fever.  Species-specific population management strategies that respect public opinion and consider animal welfare are required for the effective mitigation of this tick-borne zoonotic disease.  In order to control Capybara populations it is necessary to take into account their social dynamics, which are centered on polygynous dominant males with hormone-driven secondary sexual characteristics.  To be a viable management tool, a contraceptive strategy targeting these males must preserve their social status to prevent other males from replacing them.  As part of a larger research project on the efficiency of anti-Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccine treatment in free-ranging Capybaras, the aim of this study was to observe the impact of this treatment on alpha male and overall social group behavior.  At the end of the 18-month-study, there were no recorded births involving the immunized animals, and alpha male sexual characteristics and group integrity were preserved.  These results encourage the use of this anti-GnRH vaccine as an alternative population control tool in male Capybara.
Does Austerity Pay Off?
Authors: Born Benjamin , Müller Gernot J. , Pfeifer Johannes
Published: June 2019

We investigate empirically how fiscal shocks—unanticipated and exogenous changes of government consumption growth—affect the sovereign default premium. For this purpose, we assemble a new data set for 38 emerging and developed economies. It contains approximately 3,000 observations for the sovereign default premium and three alternative measures of fiscal shocks. We condition our estimates on whether shocks are positive or negative and initial conditions in terms of fiscal stress. An increase of government consumption barely affects the default premium. A reduction raises the premium if fiscal stress is severe but decreases it if initial conditions are benign.
Rethinking the Benefits of Youth Employment Programs: The Heterogeneous Effects of Summer Jobs
Authors: Davis Jonathan M.V. , Heller Sara B.
Published: June 2019

This paper reports the results of two randomized field experiments, each offering different populations of Chicago youth a supported summer job. The program consistently reduces violent-crime arrests, even after the summer, without improving employment, schooling, or other arrests; if anything, property crime increases over two to three years. Using a new machine learning method, we uncover heterogeneity in employment impacts that standard methods would miss, describe who benefits, and leverage the heterogeneity to explore mechanisms. We conclude that brief youth employment programs can generate important behavioral change, but for different outcomes, youth, and reasons than those most often considered in the literature.
Catotrichinae (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in Tasmania, with the description of Trichotoca edentula gen. et sp. n.
Authors: JASCHHOF MATHIAS , JASCHHOF CATRIN
Published: June 2019

Two species of catotrichine gall midges are shown to occur in Tasmania: Trichotoca edentula sp. n. and Trichotoca fraterna (Jaschhof) comb. n., the latter known previously from the Australian mainland. A new genus, Trichotoca, is founded to receive these two species and is shown to be sister-group of Catotricha Edwards, the genus now comprising all the extant catotrichine species in the northern hemisphere. Another new genus, †Mesotrichoca, is founded for the only known fossil catotrichine, †Catotricha mesozoica Kovalev. Adult morphology of the Catotrichinae is revised and briefly discussed.
New western Pacific records of Homolidae De Haan, 1839, with descriptions of new species of Homolochunia Doflein, 1904, and Latreillopsis Henderson, 1888 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: RICHER DE FORGES BERTRAND , NG PETER K. L.
Published: June 2019

Several species of rarely reported deep-sea homolid crabs are recorded from various locations in the western Pacific: Homola ikedai, H. mieensis, H. coriolisi, Homolomannia occlusa, Homolochunia kullar, H. valdiviae, H. gadaletae, Lamoha superciliosa, L. longipes, L. longirostris, L. inflata and Yaldwynopsis saguili. Two new species are described as new, Homolochunia menezi n. sp., from the Solomon Islands and Latreillopsis trispinosa n. sp. from the Philippines.
The complex communication signals in the mating behavior of the tropical cricket Cranistus colliurides Stål, 1861 (Orthoptera: Grylloidea; Trigonidiidae: Phylloscyrtini)
Authors: CENTENO ELLIOTT , ZEFA EDISON
Published: June 2019

Cricket mating behavior reflects different strategies developed by sexual selection throughout evolutionary time. To our knowledge, only one species of the Neotropical cricket Trigonidiinae had its mating behavior studied so far. Here we expand this knowledge by describing the mating behavior of Cranistus colliurides Stål, 1861, a cricket commonly found in bushes and grasses along open fields or the forest edge. Adult crickets were collected in the municipality of Capão do Leão, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Trials were carried out in laboratory to characterize the mating sequence. We quantified elapsed time of each behavioral sequence and discussed its implications in the observed mating behavior. The males of C. colliurides attracted females by means of a continuous trill, and receptive female triggers the beginning of the courtship through antennation. During courtship, copulation and post-copulatory actions, males showed a complex communication system based on information send to female by substrate vibration and an elaborated repertoire composed by calling, courtship and post-copulatory song. The mating behavior here described reveals divergence between related species hitherto studied which give us clues to understand how the sexual selection shaped the complex behaviors exhibited by Trigonidiinae crickets presently.
Clinical Characteristics and Longitudinal Outcomes of Primary Mycotic Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Cullen J. Michael , Booth Alexander T. , Mehaffey J. Hunter , Hawkins Robert B. , Spinosa Michael , Cherry Kenneth J. , Robinson William P. , Tracci Margaret C. , Kern John A. , Upchurch Gilbert R.
Published: June 2019

Medical therapy for mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAA) is almost universally fatal, while surgical and endovascular repair carry high morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between patients receiving treatment for MAA. Records were obtained and patients with MAA were stratified by intervention: endovascular repair, open surgery, and medical therapy. Primary outcomes were aneurysm-related mortality and survival. Risk-adjusted associations with mortality were assessed using time-to-event analysis. Thirty-eight patients were identified (median age, 67). Twenty-one underwent endovascular repair,10 had open surgery and 7 received medical therapy alone. Overall mortality was 47% (n = 18), with 94% aneurysm related. Median survival was significantly longer in the endovascular group (747.0 [161-1249]) vs open surgery and medical therapy (507.5 [34-806] and 66 [13-146] days, respectively; P = .02). The endovascular group had significantly fewer perioperative complications (43% vs 80%, P < .01). However, 4 endovascular patients experienced reinfection versus no open surgery patients. Mortality risk factors included medical therapy (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.3, P < .01) and aneurysm size (HR: 1.4 per 1-cm increase in diameter, P = .03). Endovascular repair of MAA was associated with the best long-term survival and lowest perioperative complication rate, although it is associated with greater reinfection. These tradeoffs should be considered when selecting which procedure is best for a patient.
Changed cortical risk gene expression in major depression and shared changes in cortical gene expression between major depression and bipolar disorders
Authors: Scarr Elizabeth , Udawela Madhara , Dean Brian
Published: June 2019

Background:

Mood disorders likely occur in someone with a genetic predisposition who encounters a deleterious environmental factor leading to dysregulated physiological processes due to genetic mutations and epigenetic mechanisms altering gene expression. To gain data to support this hypothesis, we measured levels of gene expression in three cortical regions known to be affected by the pathophysiologies of major depression and bipolar disorders.

Methods:

Levels of RNA were measured using the Affymetrix™ Human Exon 1.0 ST Array in Brodmann’s areas 9, 10 and 33 (left hemisphere) from individuals with major depression, bipolar disorder and age- and sex-matched controls with changed expression taken as a fold change in RNA ⩾1.2 at p < 0.01. Data were analysed using JMP® genomics 6.0 and the probable biological consequences of changes in gene expression determined using Core and Pathway Designer Analyses in Ingenuity Pathway Analysis.

Results:

There were altered levels of RNA in Brodmann’s area 9 (major depression = 424; bipolar disorder = 331), Brodmann’s area 10 (major depression = 52; bipolar disorder = 24) and Brodmann’s area 33 (major depression = 59 genes; bipolar disorder = 38 genes) in mood disorders. No gene was differentially expressed in all three regions in either disorder. There was a high correlation between fold changes in levels of RNA from 112 genes in Brodmann’s area 9 from major depression and bipolar disorder ( r2 = 0.91, p < 0.001). Levels of RNA for four risk genes for major depression were lower in Brodmann’s area 9 in that disorder.

Conclusion:

Our data argue that there are complex regional-specific changes in cortical gene expression in major depression and bipolar disorder that includes the expression of some risk genes for major depression in those with that disorder. It could be hypothesised that the common changes in gene expression in major depression and bipolar disorder are involved in the genesis of symptoms common to both disorders.
The financial sustainability of local authorities in England and Spain: a comparative empirical study
Authors: Rodríguez Bolívar Manuel Pedro , López Subires María Deseada , Alcaide Muñoz Laura , Navarro Galera Andrés
Published: June 2019

In recent years, the financial sustainability of local authorities has been recognised as a concept of crucial importance in ensuring that public services may continue to be delivered to future generations. Although many European countries have implemented programmes to enhance their financial sustainability, local authorities are characterised by differing administrative traditions and achieve diverse outcomes in response to the reforms made. Taking a comparative approach, the present study identifies institutional, macroeconomic and microeconomic factors that might influence local authorities’ financial sustainability in England and Spain in order to determine and explain similarities and differences in the drivers and risk factors for financial sustainability in local authorities’ provision of public services.

Points for practitioners

This article is based on three major theories (agency theory, neo-institutional theory and stakeholder theory) related to the institutional, macroeconomic and microeconomic factors determining financial sustainability and aims to identify these factors comparing different contexts (English and Spanish contexts). This identification of factors that influence municipal financial sustainability could clarify what policymakers might have done to prevent the crisis, what they should do to prevent similar failures in the future and how the long-term provision of public services may be ensured.
Talent management and talented employees’ attitudes: mediating role of perceived organisational support
Authors: Mensah James Kwame
Published: June 2019

This study responds to calls to examine the mechanism through which talent management affects talented employees’ attitudes. Anchored on exchange theories, this study examines a salient mechanism, perceived organisational support, through which talent management practices might affect talented employees’ attitudes. Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of 242 talented employees in the Ghanaian banking sector and analysed with the use of the structural equation modelling analytical technique. Our findings show that talent management has not only a direct effect, but also an indirect effect, on talented employees’ attitudes of affective commitment and quit intention through perceived organisational support. The study has implications for the management of talented employees.

Points for practitioners

The effectiveness of organisational support systems exists not only in the practices themselves, but also in the perceptions that employees have of those practices. For organisations to benefit fully from the implementation of talent management, managers must inform talent pool members of their status and constantly communicate talent management practices. While directly impacting affective commitment and intention to quit, talent management also operates through a path connecting perceived organisational support to these attitudes.
Women Publishing in American Psychological Association Journals: A Gender Analysis of Six Decades
Authors: González-Alvarez Julio , Sos-Peña Rosa
Published: June 2019

Despite recent advances, gender inequality persists in many scientific fields, and Psychology is not alien to this phenomenon. This study presents the evolution of gender composition in American Psychological Association publications in the past six decades, from 1963 to 2016. Longitudinal analysis revealed an important change: women rose from a tiny 12% to 14% in the 1960s to almost gender parity in the last decade (2010s). The pattern of collaboration (coauthorship) shows that women tend to be slightly overrepresented as first author and underrepresented as the last or senior author. In the last two decades, women outnumber men as “new” American Psychological Association authors (authors who publish for the first time in an American Psychological Association journal). These features and the fact that men’s publications tend to encompass a much wider range of years suggest that age may play a role in the gender composition of American Psychological Association contributors.
Cultural humility: Conclusion to the special issue
Authors: Davis Don E. , Hook Joshua N.
Published: June 2019

We conclude the special issue by addressing some ongoing limitations within scholarship on humility and cultural humility that ought to temper our reading of the extant literature. We also discuss four critiques of initial scholarship in this area. We end with some suggestions for future research on cultural humility.
Selective brain hypothermia: feasibility and safety study of a novel method in five patients
Authors: Seyedsaadat Seyed Mohammad , Marasco Silvana F , Daly David J , McEgan Robin , Anderson James , Rodgers Seth , Kreck Thomas , Kadirvel Ramanathan , Kallmes David F
Published: June 2019

Background/objective:

Reduction of brain temperature remains the most common method of neuroprotection against ischemic injury employed during cardiac surgery. However, cooling delivered via the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit is brief and cooling the body core along with the brain has been associated with a variety of unwanted effects. This study investigated the feasibility and safety of a novel selective brain cooling approach to induce rapid, brain-targeted hypothermia independent of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit.

Methods:

This first-in-human feasibility study enrolled five adults undergoing aortic valve replacement with cardiopulmonary bypass support. During surgery, the NeuroSave system circulated chilled saline within the pharynx and upper esophagus. Brain and body core temperature were continuously monitored. Adverse effects, cardiopulmonary function, and device function were noted.

Results:

Patient 1 received cooling fluid for an insignificant period, and Patients 2-5 successfully underwent the cooling procedure using the NeuroSave system for 56-89 minutes. Cooling fluid was 12°C for Patients 1-3, 6°C for Patient 4, and 2°C for Patient 5. There were no NeuroSave-related adverse events and no alterations in cardiopulmonary function during NeuroSave use. Brain temperature decreased by 3°C within 15 minutes and remained at least 3.5°C colder than the body core. During a brief episode of hypotension in one patient, the brain cooled an additional 4°C in 2 minutes, briefly reaching 27.4°C.

Conclusion:

The NeuroSave system can induce rapid brain-targeted hypothermia and simultaneously maintain a favorable body–brain temperature gradient, even during hypotension. Further studies are required to evaluate the function of the system during longer periods of use.
A multi-centre, prospective, randomised controlled feasibility study of plantar resistance exercise therapy for venous leg ulcers – Results of the PREVUE study
Authors: Jonker Leon , Todhunter Jane , Schutter Jose , Halliday Charlotte , Fisher Stacey
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of an interventional study involving a seated plantar resistance exercise programme, using a StepIt pedal, aimed at promotion of venous leg ulcer healing.

Methods

Thirty-two venous leg ulcer patients, recruited from community, GP and hospital settings, were randomised to either a standard care or adjuvant StepIt exercise programme arm for up to 12 weeks. The exercise involved a twice daily routine of 10 times 1 min of exercise, i.e. 2 s push and 2 s lift repetitions (equating to 300 daily ‘steps’).

Results

Complete healing of the venous leg ulcers was observed in 10 out of 15 (67%; StepIt cohort) and 7 out of 17 (41%; control cohort), respectively (p-value 0.18, Fisher’s exact test). Baseline differences between the two cohorts were longer wound chronicity, less venous leg ulcer-related pain and better venous leg ulcer-related quality of life in the StepIt cohort. One adverse event, involving increased wound exudate and slough production, was observed in a participant using StepIt, and no study withdrawals were recorded in either arm. StepIt users whose wound had completely healed by week 12 were more likely to be compliant with the exercise programme (self-reported) and more positive about the trial experience; however, all would recommend the device to others.

Conclusions

Seated plantar resistance exercise shows promise and may accelerate venous leg ulcer wound healing. The StepIt pedal is well-received by patients, and its efficacy may depend on the degree of patient compliance with the exercise programme. Further larger scale studies are indicated to allow more concrete inferences to be made on the clinical and potential health economics impact that this device may have.
Hyperbilirubinemia as a predictor of severity of acute appendicitis
Authors: Akai Masaaki , Iwakawa Kazuhide , Yasui Yuichi , Yoshida Yusuke , Kato Takuya , Kitada Koji , Hamano Ryosuke , Tokunaga Naoyuki , Miyaso Hideaki , Tsunemitsu Yosuke , Otsuka Shinya , Inagaki Masaru , Iwagaki Hiromi
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of preoperative hyperbilirubinemia in Japanese patients and to assess its clinical potential as a predictor of the severity of acute appendicitis.

Methods

We studied 318 patients with appendicitis who underwent appendectomy between July 2010 and June 2017. We analyzed preoperative data including age, sex, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, fever, peritoneal irritation signs, and serum total bilirubin level as potential risk factors for complicated (perforated or gangrenous) appendicitis, using multivariate analysis.

Results

Complicated appendicitis was significantly more frequent in patients with hyperbilirubinemia (>1.1 mg/dL), high CRP level (>0.5 mg/dL), positive peritoneal irritation signs, and fever (>37.3°C). Multivariate analysis revealed older age (>64 years), hyperbilirubinemia, high CRP level, and fever (odds ratios 3.36, 1.75, 7.61, and 2.43, respectively) as risk factors for complicated appendicitis. Multivariate analysis also identified hyperbilirubinemia, high CRP level, and fever (odds ratios 1.99, 5.90, and 2.72, respectively) as risk factors for complicated appendicitis among patients aged <65 years.

Conclusions

Hyperbilirubinemia, high CRP level, and fever may be useful predictors of the severity of acute appendicitis, with hyperbilirubinemia being especially useful among patients aged <65 years.
Corrosion Management of Maritime Infrastructure
Authors: Kurth Jonah C. , Krauss Paul D. , Foster Stephen W.
Published: June 2019

Maritime infrastructure is at high risk for corrosion-related damage over its service life. These assets are routinely subjected to harsh exposures and heavy usage that can degrade ordinary protective measures for reinforced concrete and steel elements. For owners and operators of ports and other maritime facilities, beginning with a strategic corrosion management plan is a proactive approach for maintenance and replacement needs. A corrosion management plan begins with understanding a few key items. First, identify what infrastructure elements are present and should be inventoried. Second, identify what construction materials and corrosion protection measures are already in place. Third, understand the nature and severity of environmental and usage-related exposures and impact on corrosion. Corrosion management plans have been adopted widely over the years by the oil, gas, and process industries for maintenance of various kinds of equipment, piping, and other needs. However, adoption of these techniques and procedures for civil and maritime infrastructure is still in its early stages. This paper presents the common types of techniques, methods, and documents available for inspecting maritime assets, evaluating exposures, and calculating service life of maritime infrastructure.
Modern Chicano Street Gangs: Ethnic Pride Versus “Gangsta” Subculture
Authors: Tapia Mike
Published: June 2019

This article examines the subcultural characteristics of modern Chicano street gangs, using San Antonio, Texas, as a case study. It is informed by archival material, police data, and multifaceted fieldwork with gang members and police in that city. The result is a broad sweeping analysis of the role of various social forces in shaping the form of contemporary Chicano gangs. I find that gang migration, the social mimicry of Black gangs, and the weakening of ethnic pride have all profoundly affected modern street gang subculture. However, ethnic pride norms have not completely faded away, presenting an interesting bifurcation among modern Chicano gangs. Profiling the most violent and reputable gangs from the early 1990s to 2015 in San Antonio drives this analysis of barrio longevity versus cultural succession. This study concludes that there are “period effects” that are not well accounted for in the current literature on youth gang subcultures.
Effets des émotions et de la personnalité de la marque sur l’engagement du consommateur via les effets médiateurs de la confiance et de l’attachement à la marque
Authors: Valette-Florence Rita , Valette-Florence Pierre
Published: June 2019

Résumé

Adossé aux concepts de personnalité de la marque et d’émotions, cet article s’attache à montrer leur incidence respective sur les principales variables de la relation à la marque, la confiance, l’attachement et l’engagement global envers la marque. Basé sur un panel conséquent de consommateurs, les traitements statistiques sont conduits selon une analyse des structures de covariance (ASC) ou une approche des moindres carrés partiels (PLS), en prenant soin de tenir compte de l’erreur de mesure. Le modèle correspondant valide l’incidence des émotions et de la personnalité de la marque sur l’engagement du consommateur via les effets médiateurs de la confiance et de l’attachement à la marque. Plus précisément, les résultats montrent la médiation totale de la confiance au regard de l’impact de la personnalité de la marque sur l’engagement. Ils indiquent également la médiation partielle, mais centrale, exercée par l’attachement sur l’engagement. Enfin, les analyses soulignent la stabilité des résultats sur les 6 marques testées dans cette recherche. Elles illustrent cependant des différences notables entre les marques suivant leur caractère évaluatif ou hédonique.
Fear Without Context: Acute Stress Modulates the Balance of Cue-Dependent and Contextual Fear Learning
Authors: Simon-Kutscher Kathrin , Wanke Nadine , Hiller Carlo , Schwabe Lars
Published: June 2019

During a threatening encounter, people can learn to associate the aversive event with a discrete preceding cue or with the context in which the event took place, corresponding to cue-dependent and context-dependent fear conditioning, respectively. Which of these forms of fear learning prevails has critical implications for fear-related psychopathology. We tested here whether acute stress may modulate the balance of cue-dependent and contextual fear learning. Participants ( N = 72) underwent a stress or control manipulation 30 min before they completed a fear-learning task in a virtual environment that allowed both cued and contextual fear learning. Results showed equally strong cue- and context-dependent fear conditioning in the control group. Stress, however, abolished contextual fear learning, which was directly correlated with the activity of the stress hormone cortisol, and made cue-dependent fear more resistant to extinction. These results are the first to show that stress favors cue-dependent over contextual fear learning.
Middle-Neolithic agricultural practices in the Oldenburger Graben wetlands, northern Germany: First results of the analysis of arable weeds and stable isotopes
Authors: Filipović Dragana , Brozio Jan Piet , Ditchfield Peter , Klooß Stefanie , Müller Johannes , Kirleis Wiebke
Published: June 2019

A number of small middle-Neolithic (3300–2800 BC) settlements flourished in the Oldenburger Graben area of northern Germany. The excavations yielded large amounts of crop remains, suggesting that agrarian production was a cornerstone of subsistence economy. Until about 3000 BC, Oldenburger Graben was a fjord, which over time was separated from the Baltic Sea and became a lagoon. The location of the settlement in the wetlands would have been highly favourable, offering a range of terrestrial and aquatic resources. Nonetheless, it may have been challenging to the Neolithic farmers, as perhaps not much dry land was available for crop growing. The success of agrarian production likely depended on the methods employed. This is an initial attempt at reconstructing strategies of agricultural land use during the middle-Neolithic occupation of the Oldenburger Graben lowland. We combine information on the habitat preferences and life history of arable weeds, and the recently obtained carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values on crop grains from one of the sites. The evidence allows us to glean practices that crop cultivation may have entailed, including potential strategies aimed at improving productivity of arable land such as tillage, weeding and manuring. Although preliminary, the observations point at potentially different management of emmer and barley, perhaps due to their variable importance to the Neolithic residents. This is the first time that stable isotope analysis on crops from northern Germany is used to elucidate agricultural practices of the Funnelbeaker communities of the middle-Neolithic.