bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vascular Development
Authors: Majesky Mark W.
Published: February 2018

The vascular system forms as a branching network of endothelial cells that acquire identity as arterial, venous, hemogenic, or lymphatic. Endothelial specification depends on gene targets transcribed by Ets domain–containing factors, including Ets variant gene 2 (Etv2), together with the activity of chromatin-remodeling complexes containing Brahma-related gene-1 (Brg1). Once specified and assembled into vessels, mechanisms regulating lumen diameter and axial growth ensure that the structure of the branching vascular network matches the need for perfusion of target tissues. In addition, blood vessels provide important morphogenic cues that guide or direct the development of organs forming around them. As the embryo grows and lumen diameters increase, smooth muscle cells wrap around the nascent vessel walls to provide mechanical strength and vasomotor control of the circulation. Increasing mechanical stretch and wall strain promote smooth muscle cell differentiation via coupling of actin cytoskeletal remodeling to myocardin and serum response factor–dependent transcription. Remodeling of artery walls by developmental signaling pathways reappears in postnatal blood vessels during physiological and pathological adaptation to vessel wall injury, inflammation, or chronic hypoxia. Recent reports providing insights into major steps in vascular development are reviewed here with a particular emphasis on studies that have been recently published in
Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology.
High‐Sensitivity Troponin I Levels and Coronary Artery Disease Severity, Progression, and Long‐Term Outcomes
Authors: Samman Tahhan Ayman , Sandesara Pratik , Hayek Salim S. , Hammadah Muhammad , Alkhoder Ayman , Kelli Heval M. , Topel Matthew , O'Neal Wesley T. , Ghasemzadeh Nima , Ko Yi‐An , Gafeer Mohamad Mazen , Abdelhadi Naser , Choudhary Fahad , Patel Keyur , Beshiri Agim , Murtagh Gillian , Kim Jonathan , Wilson Peter , Shaw Leslee , Vaccarino Viola , Epstein Stephen E. , Sperling Laurence , Quyyumi Arshed A.
Published: February 2018

Background

The associations between high‐sensitivity troponin I (hsTnI) levels and coronary artery disease (CAD) severity and progression remain unclear. We investigated whether there is an association between hsTnI and angiographic severity and progression of
CAD
and whether the predictive value of hsTnI level for incident cardiovascular outcomes is independent of
CAD
severity.

Methods and Results

In 3087 patients (aged 63±12 years, 64% men) undergoing cardiac catheterization without evidence of acute myocardial infarction, the severity of
CAD
was calculated by the number of major coronary arteries with ≥50% stenosis and the Gensini score.
CAD
progression was assessed in a subset of 717 patients who had undergone ≥2 coronary angiograms >3 months before enrollment. Patients were followed up for incident all‐cause mortality and incident cardiovascular events. Of the total population, 11% had normal angiograms, 23% had nonobstructive
CAD
, 20% had 1‐vessel CAD, 20% had 2‐vessel CAD, and 26% had 3‐vessel
CAD
. After adjusting for age, sex, race, body mass index, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus history, and renal function, hsTnI levels were independently associated with the severity of
CAD
measured by the Gensini score (log 2 ß=0.31; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.44;
P
<0.001) and with
CAD
progression (log 2 ß=0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.14–0.58;
P
=0.001). hsTnI level was also a significant predictor of incident death, cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, revascularization, and cardiac hospitalizations, independent of the aforementioned covariates and
CAD
severity.

Conclusions

Higher hsTnI levels are associated with the underlying burden of coronary atherosclerosis, more rapid progression of
CAD
, and higher risk of all‐cause mortality and incident cardiovascular events. Whether more aggressive treatment aimed at reducing hsTnI levels can modulate disease progression requires further investigation.
The distributions of the six species constituting the smooth newt species complex (Lissotriton vulgaris sensu lato and L. montandoni) – an addition to the New Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of Europe
Authors: Wielstra Ben , Canestrelli Daniele , Cvijanović Milena , Denoël Mathieu , Fijarczyk Anna , Jablonski Daniel , Liana Marcin , Naumov Borislav , Olgun Kurtuluş , Pabijan Maciej , Pezzarossa Alice , Popgeorgiev Georgi , Salvi Daniele , Si Yali , Sillero Neftalí , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Zieliński Piotr , Babik Wiesław
Published: February 2018

The ‘smooth newt’, the taxon traditionally referred to as Lissotriton vulgaris, consists of multiple morphologically distinct taxa. Given the uncertainty concerning the validity and rank of these taxa, L. vulgaris sensu lato has often been treated as a single, polytypic species. A recent study, driven by genetic data, proposed to recognize five species, L. graecus, L. kosswigi, L. lantzi, L. schmidtleri and a more restricted L. vulgaris. The Carpathian newt L. montandoni was confirmed to be a closely related sister species. We propose to refer to this collective of six Lissotriton species as the smooth newt or Lissotriton vulgaris species complex. Guided by comprehensive genomic data from throughout the range of the smooth newt species complex we 1) delineate the distribution ranges, 2) provide a distribution database, and 3) produce distribution maps according to the format of the New Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of Europe, for the six constituent species. This allows us to 4) highlight regions where more research is needed to determine the position of contact zones.
Exile and Identity Reconfiguration
Authors: Baicoianu Anca
Published: February 2018

This article tackles the experience of exile as described in Norman Manea’s fictional and non-fictional works. My analysis will focus on the relations between language and belonging, as well as on the role of history and memory in the process of identity reconfiguration. The main assumption of this essay is that the shift between reterritorialization and deterritorialization as conditions inflecting the writer’s sense of identity and belonging could provide useful suggestions for a broader investigation concerning the transformations having affected Romanian culture after 1989, while at the same time orienting the discussion towards similar current investigations in a global context.
Did Romania Move South?
Authors: Fotache Oana
Published: February 2018

This essay tackles Romania’s geocultural position and its consequences for localizing Romanian literature in South-Eastern rather than Eastern Europe by comparing critically the implicit ideological dimension of three types of imaginary spatial narratives: the historian Nicolae Iorga’s (1871–1940), the folklorist and comparatist D. Caracostea’s (1879–1964), and the literary critic Mircea Muthu’s (b. 1944). I chose these three perspectives because they illustrate the way different disciplines looked at Romanian culture’s geographical and symbolical location on the European map during the 20th century. These three contributed to the perception of Romanian culture as part of a South-Eastern cultural heritage. Originating in these ideological representations, there is a parallel tradition in Romanian literature that configures also a Southern identity. More than just a side note to the Eastern European framework still dominant in literary studies, to rethink the location of Romanian literature as a South-Eastern European one means to imagine an alternative paradigm that has different political consequences for configuring a more complex geocultural identity.
The Battle of the Brands
Authors: Mihăilescu Călin-Andrei
Published: February 2018

The international recognition of Romanian literature faces a double challenge: first, the limited circulation of the Romanian language; second, the small number of translations and the non-systematic branding that this literature has enjoyed so far. This article discusses (1) the meanings of “branding”; (2) the ways in which the nationalist imp keeps hindering the branding of Romanian literature abroad, and highlights the historical and contemporary shortcomings of the branding of Romanian literary texts and authors; and (3) the current state-of-affairs, followed by a scenario for future action. The last section suggests ways of improving this branding by piggybacking on the international success of Romanian cinema and on a few award-winning Romanian writers, but especially by attempting to help create a class of professional middle-persons (cultural managers, literary agents and advertising professionals) who would systematically promote Romanian literature.
There and back again: More on the taxonomy of the crab spiders genus Epicadus (Thomisidae: Stephanopinae)
Authors: MACHADO MIGUEL , TEIXEIRA RENATO AUGUSTO , LISE ARNO ANTONIO
Published: February 2018

The Neotropical crab spider genera Tobias Simon, 1895 and Epicadus Simon, 1895 comprise species with remarkable somatic morphology and confounding taxonomic history. The results of our recent cladistic analysis corroborate and extend preceding taxonomic assumptions in showing that Tobias is a junior synonym of Epicadus. In the present paper the six species recently transferred from Tobias to Epicadus are redescribed. Two new species are described based on both males and females: Epicadus dimidiaster sp. nov. and Epicadus tigrinus sp. nov.; the male of Epicadus granulatus Banks, 1909 is described for the first time. The diagnosis of the genus is revised, an identification key is provided, and information on geographical distribution is updated. Epicadus now comprises eleven species.
Comments on “Langmuir Turbulence and Surface Heating in the Ocean Surface Boundary Layer”
Authors: Noh Yign , Choi Yeonju
Published: February 2018

Using large-eddy simulations (LES) it is shown that the depth of a diurnal thermocline h should be scaled by the Zilitinkevich scale LZ, not by the Monin–Obukhov length scale LMO, contrary to the proposition by Pearson et al. Their argument to explain the slower increase of h than LMO using the effect of the preexisting thermocline is also invalid.
Evaluation of Accuracy of Chinese AMDAR Data for 2015
Authors: Ding Jinfeng , Zhuge Xiaoyong , Li Xin , Yuan Zipeng , Wang Yuan
Published: February 2018

Two comparative studies have been performed to evaluate the accuracy of Chinese Aircraft Meteorological Data Relay (AMDAR) weather reports. The comparison between AMDAR reports and radiosonde observations shows that the root-mean-square differences (RMSDs) in temperature, wind speed, and wind direction are 1.06°C, 1.95 m s−1, and 22°, respectively, within a spatial range of ≤20 km and a temporal window of ≤15 min. The comparison between AMDAR reports collected by different aircraft reveals that observation uncertainties in temperature, wind speed, and wind direction are 0.59°C, 0.90 m s−1, and 12°, respectively. The spatial and temporal representativeness as well as the environmental factors that may affect the evaluation results are also discussed in detail in the two comparative studies. The results of the present study provide valuable information on and high confidence in the application of Chinese AMDAR in numerical weather prediction models.
Out of West Africa: Human Smuggling as a Social Enterprise
Authors: Maher Stephanie
Published: February 2018

Drawing on 18 months of ethnographic research in Senegal, this article focuses on the sociality of migrant facilitation. Although it has become relatively common in media and policy reports to suggest that irregular migrants are manipulated by greedy and unscrupulous human smugglers, this article shows how migrants in Senegal are often familiar with their handlers and are more likely to call them a friend ( ami) than a criminal. Also, most migrants do not see themselves as “smuggled,” which implies victimhood. Rather, they see themselves as making calculated choices to migrate based on a host of social factors. By exploring the relationships between handlers and migrants, this article reveals the social worlds of negotiation, assistance, and protection that feature prominently in West African migrant narratives and practices.
Spatially Resolved Lateral Transmission Measurements to Characterize Changes in the Scattering Coefficient and the Anisotropy Factor
Authors: Stocker Sabrina , Foschum Florian , Kienle Alwin
Published: February 2018

A new setup is described to characterize the scattering coefficient and the scattering phase function of liquid media. The setup utilizes the basic idea of a spatially resolved reflectance measurement combined with a sophisticated illumination geometry. The sample is illuminated parallel and close to the interface of the sample and a glass window to get information from single scattered and multiple scattered light. By illuminating the sample with a fiber orientated with the axis parallel to the glass surface, small distances to the source can be examined unimpeded by the illumination beam. The derived information is, for example, not only sensitive to the concentration of the scatterers but also to the size of the scattering particles. We present the setup including the theory to describe the light propagation in the whole configuration using Monte Carlo simulations. The validation has been done with polystyrene microsphere dispersions with different scattering coefficients. As application for the developed setup, we show measurements of different milk samples which vary in concentration of fat, protein, and in fat droplet size during homogenization process. By measuring milk, we show the ability of the sensor to determine information about the scattering phase function without diluting the sample. For sensors in the dairy industry, a measurement with no pre-processing and no diluting of the sample is worthwhile, because this can be used to determine the fat and protein concentration on-line.
Investigating a theatre-based intervention for Indigenous youth with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Keightley Michelle , Agnihotri Sabrina , Subramaniapillai Sivaniya , Gray Julia , Keresztesi Jennifer , Colantonio Angela , Polatajko Helene J. , Cameron Debra , Wiseman-Hakes Catherine
Published: February 2018

Background.

Theatre-based interventions use artistic media to facilitate social and emotional awareness and have therapeutic benefits for persons with developmental disabilities and mental health problems. The role of these interventions with Indigenous youth who have emotional, behavioural, and cognitive sequelae related to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) has not been explored.

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and acceptability of a theatre-based approach for facilitating social communication and engagement in youth with FASD.

Method.

Participants were three Indigenous youth with FASD. A qualitative exploration of the experiences and acceptability of the intervention was conducted via focus groups held 2 weeks post–program participation with the participants, their caregivers, and program facilitators. The transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach.

Findings.

Our results identified perceived postintervention improvements in participants’ development of self-esteem, social skills, and emotional awareness.

Implications.

A theatre-based arts intervention has the potential to support improvements in social skills for youth with FASD.
Portrait of Counseling Psychology: Demographics, Roles, Activities, and Values Across Three Decades
Authors: Lichtenberg James W. , Hutman Heidi , Goodyear Rodney K.
Published: February 2018

We summarize the results of a national survey ( N = 799) conducted to provide a current snapshot of counseling psychologists, what they do, how and where they do it, and the extent to which they ascribe to specific counseling psychology values. We describe our sample and compare Society of Counseling Psychology (SCP) members to non-SCP counseling psychologists belonging to the American Psychological Association. Of those within the SCP, we compare early career professionals (ECPs) with mid to senior-level professionals. Finally, we compare findings from our survey with those from two previous surveys. Our findings highlight the diversity in the roles, activities, workplaces, and perspectives of contemporary counseling psychologists; differences between counseling psychologists who are SCP members and nonmembers, and between ECPs and more senior professionals; and changes in the profession’s character over time. Considerations for the SCP are discussed.
A real-time web-based networked control system education platform
Authors: Cavalcanti João , Figueredo Luis FC , Ishihara João Y , Bernardes Mariana C , Santana Pedro HRQA , Vargas Alessandro N , Borges Geovany A
Published: February 2018

Networked control systems have recently experienced a surge in fundamental theoretical results ignited by numerous advantages of introducing shared multipurpose communication networks in control systems. Regarding developments on the practical side, however, a networked control system is still wanting when it comes to experimental platforms suitable for research and educational purposes, which contributes to most of networked control system theory being validated by means of numerical examples and simulations. This paper addresses this issue by presenting a low-cost real-time networked control system platform, based on custom hardware and software solutions that can be readily explored with the sole use of a web browser connected to the Internet. The technical decisions made during development represent a fundamentally novel take on networked control system experimental platforms that can potentially be reproduced by several universities. The platform provides the user with multiple controller and input reference options, network configurations, delay statistics, and even a downloadable file containing advanced experiment data. A survey conducted with students located over 1200 km away from the platform who used it during laboratory assignments highlight the system’s usability and interactivity, and supports the platform is suitable for educational purposes.
Interpreting Black History: Toward a Black History Framework for Teacher Education
Authors: King LaGarrett J.
Published: February 2018

I argue in this article that a close examination of preservice teachers’ Black history knowledge is needed to possibly improve curricular and instructional approaches of Black education. Seven preservice teachers were studied and asked to write Black history narratives to ascertain how they interpreted Black history. I analyzed these responses through a Black history framework that combined aspects of diaspora literacy, historical consciousness, and Black Critical race theory. Findings indicate preservice teachers held both critical and noncritical Black history knowledge. Implications are given to teacher educators to find out how to effectively gauge Black history as a heuristic for diversity education.
Multilayer Process Goose Queue (PGQ) formation adjustment approaches based on model-free adaptive control strategies
Authors: Yang Bo , Li He , Li Hongguang
Published: February 2018

The Process Goose Queue (PGQ) approach has been proposed to solve decomposition-coordination optimization problems of large-scale process production systems. At present, the existing multilayer PGQ formation adjustment is generally performed with model-based optimization approaches that strongly rely on rigorous models of processes and suffer difficulties in dealing with online model identifications. In this paper, we introduce a novel data-driven control approach for multilayer PGQ formation adjustments using model-free adaptive control (MFAC) strategies. The individual PGQ is formulated as a multi-objective control problem before a model-free controller is designed for each layer of the PGQs by taking advantage of the feed-forward control idea and the inter-level coordination matrix. This approach enjoys effectively restraining the vibration propagation among PGQs as well as realizing rapid and timely adjustments of the PGQ formation. Case simulations show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Do Personality Traits and Emotional Intelligence of Investors Determine Their Risk Tolerance?
Authors: Dhiman Babli , Raheja Saloni
Published: February 2018

In today’s scenario, investment is very important in everyone’s life. Investors always prefer the investment avenues according to their suitability, risk and the return because there are different investment avenues available in the market. There are various factors that influence the risk tolerance behaviour of the investors, such as age, gender, marital status, experience, income, household expenditure, present and future savings, future expectations of returns and future planning of the investor. But the risk tolerance is also affected by the personality traits and emotional intelligence (EI) of the investors. Thus, the present study focuses on the relation between the personality traits, EI and risk tolerance of the investors. The data was collected from 500 investors who invest through LSC Securities Ltd (formerly LSE Securities Ltd) in Punjab by using structured questionnaire. Multiple regression test was applied through SPSS to test the significance of relationship among the variables. The study found the relation of risk tolerance with personality traits and EI to be statistically significant.
Young adult women’s narrative resilience in relation to mother-daughter communicated narrative sense-making and well-being
Authors: Horstman Haley Kranstuber
Published: February 2018

Grounded in communicated narrative sense-making (CNSM) and resilience theorizing, the current study investigated the effects of mother-daughter communication on young adult women’s ( n = 60) narrative construction of resilience over time. Participants wrote stories of difficult experiences at Time 1, discussed the story with their mother in a research lab two days later, and wrote the story again at Time 2. Inductive analyses of daughters’ stories revealed four themes of resilience: acknowledging the struggle, taking action, seeking silver lining, and finding strength in others. Mother-daughter interactions were analyzed for CNSM behaviors—engagement, turn-taking, perspective-taking, and coherence. Mother-daughter coherence and engagement illuminated differences in daughters’ themes of resilience, and all CNSM behaviors positively related to daughters’ increased narrative resilience over time. Findings demonstrated the effect of mother-daughter interaction on young adult women’s resilience, suggesting that CNSM contributes to the meaning-making component of resilience. Implications for advancing CNSM and resilience theorizing are explored.
Subacromial Local Anesthetics Do Not Interfere With Rotator Cuff Healing After Arthroscopic Repair
Authors: Rhee Sung-Min , Chung Nam Yun , Jeong Hyeon Jang , Oh Joo Han
Published: February 2018

Background:

Subacromial pain pumps are used for analgesia after arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery. However, there is controversy about myotoxic or tendinotoxic effects of local anesthetics.

Hypothesis:

Ropivacaine administered via a subacromial pain pump would have no adverse effect on rotator cuff tendon healing, fatty degeneration, strength, or functional outcomes after arthroscopic repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study continues follow-up of patients enrolled in the authors’ 3 published prospective studies regarding pain control after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. In total, 118 patients who underwent rotator cuff repair and returned for evaluation at least 1 year postoperatively were divided into 3 groups: patients who received continuous subacromial ropivacaine infusion (group 1, n = 33), those who received patient-controlled subacromial ropivacaine infusion (group 2, n = 30), and those who received other pain control modalities (intravenous patient-controlled analgesia and/or interscalene block; group 3, n = 55). At least 1 year postoperatively, tendon healing and changes in global fatty degeneration index (GFDI) were estimated through computed tomographic arthrography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasonography. Changes in isokinetic muscle performance test (IMPT) were calculated and functional outcomes evaluated, including visual analog scales (VASs) for pain and satisfaction, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Constant score.

Results:

At final follow-up, there were no differences in pain VAS (group 1, 1.1 ± 2.3; group 2, 1.3 ± 1.9; group 3, 0.9 ± 1.7; P = .88), satisfaction VAS (group 1, 8.3 ± 2.4; group 2, 8.7 ± 1.5; group 3, 8.0 ± 2.1; P = .64), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (group 1, 79.5 ± 10.5; group 2, 81.1 ± 6.9; group 3, 75.7 ± 7.6; P = .34), or Constant score (group 1, 81.8 ± 8.7; group 2, 77.6 ± 9.3; group 3, 78.2 ± 8.4; P = .31). Among the 3 groups, there were no significant differences in healing rates (group 1, 72.7%; group 2, 73.3%; group 3, 70.9%; P = .83) and no differences in changes of GFDI (group 1, 0.45; group 2, 0.62; group 3, 0.41; P = .79), and IMPT (abduction: group 1, 113.0%; group 2, 121.5%; group 3, 120.1%; P = .73; external rotation: group 1, 112.1%; group 2, 121.6%; group 3, 111.7%; P = .71; internal rotation: group 1, 118.2%; group 2, 118.0%; group 3, 118.1%; P = .95). When data were reanalyzed with 2 groups (group 1 + 2 vs group 3), there were no significant differences in functional scores, healing rates, or changes in GFDI and IMPT ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

Current data suggest that myotoxicity of subacromial ropivacaine administered via pain pump may be reversible or may not be so severe as to interfere with tendon healing and cause muscle degeneration and thus may not affect postoperative function.
Daily Profiles of Light Exposure and Evening Use of Light-emitting Devices in Young Adults Complaining of a Delayed Sleep Schedule
Authors: Van der Maren Solenne , Moderie Christophe , Duclos Catherine , Paquet Jean , Daneault Véronique , Dumont Marie
Published: February 2018

A number of factors can contribute to a delayed sleep schedule. An important factor could be a daily profile of light exposure favoring a later circadian phase. This study aimed to compare light exposure between 14 young adults complaining of a delayed sleep schedule and 14 matched controls and to identify possible associations between habitual light exposure and circadian phase. Exposure to white and blue light was recorded with ambulatory monitors for 7 consecutive days. Participants also noted their daily use of light-emitting devices before bedtime. Endogenous circadian phase was estimated with the dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) in the laboratory. The amplitude of the light-dark cycle to which the subjects were exposed was smaller in delayed than in control subjects, and smaller amplitude was associated with a later DLMO. Smaller amplitude was due to both decreased exposure in the daytime and increased exposure at night. Total exposure to blue light, but not to white light, was lower in delayed subjects, possibly due to lower exposure to blue-rich outdoor light. Lower daily exposure to blue light was associated with a later DLMO. Timing of relative increases and decreases of light exposure in relation to endogenous circadian phase was also compared between the 2 groups. In delayed subjects, there was a relatively higher exposure to white and blue light 2 h after DLMO, a circadian time with maximal phase-delaying effect. Delayed participants also had higher exposure to light 8 to 10 h after DLMO, which occurred mostly during their sleep episode but may have some phase-advancing effects. Self-reported use of light-emitting devices before bedtime was higher in delayed than in control subjects and was associated with a later DLMO. This study suggests that individuals complaining of a delayed sleep schedule engage in light-related behaviors favoring a later circadian phase and a later bedtime.
Straightlining: Overview of Measurement, Comparison of Indicators, and Effects in Mail–Web Mixed-Mode Surveys
Authors: Kim Yujin , Dykema Jennifer , Stevenson John , Black Penny , Moberg D. Paul
Published: February 2018

Straightlining occurs when survey respondents give identical (or nearly identical) answers to items in a battery of questions using the same response scale, which may reduce data quality. Despite its potential importance, research examining straightlining does not use a standard measurement technique. Further, while mixed-mode studies are increasing in prevalence, few studies compare straightlining behavior in mail versus web surveys. Our article has the following goals: (1) describe and evaluate methods for detecting straightlining and (2) examine effects of education and mode of administration on straightlining in two mail/web mixed-mode surveys. Data for Study 1 are from a 2010 survey of alcohol beliefs and consumption in which 7,200 young adults were sampled from driver’s license records in Wisconsin and randomly assigned to mail–web (mail followed by web) or web–mail (web followed by mail) treatments. Data for Study 2 are from a 2013 survey about a public university and its affiliated health organizations that used an address-based sample and randomly assigned households to one of the three experimental groups: mail-only, web-only, and web–mail. We identify and examine five methods for measuring straightlining: simple nondifferentiation, mean root of pairs, maximum identical rating, standard deviation of battery, and scale point variation. The overall results replicate previously reported findings of a negative association between education and straightlining behaviors except for the standard deviation of battery measure in Study 1. Controlling for gender, race/ethnicity, and education, mode of administration was not significantly related to straightlining for any of the measures, suggesting straightlining behavior is stable across mail and web forms of self-administration.
Examining Youth Outcomes of African American–Led Nonprofits
Authors: Gooden Susan T. , Evans Lindsey L. , Perkins Michael L. , Gooden Caper , Pang Yali
Published: February 2018

This article examines the outcomes of African American–led nonprofit organizations in improving the lives of the youth they serve. Using the framework of representative bureaucracy, this study suggests that demographic similarity among nonprofit leadership and nonprofit clients is transferable to increasing positive youth outcomes within African American–led youth-focused nonprofit organizations. Based on survey data from 727 youth, enhanced by qualitative interviews and focus groups, this research examines youth outcomes across three African American–led nonprofits and compares them with demographically similar youth in their communities. Youth outcomes are analyzed in the areas of academic performance, deviant behavior, family and social support, and self-esteem and resiliency. The findings suggest youth who participate in African American–led nonprofit organizations outperform their peers in the areas of academic performance and self-esteem. These outcomes are important because African American–led nonprofit organizations disproportionately serve African American youth who may not otherwise be served by other extracurricular programming.
Power recovery of a variable nozzle turbocharged diesel engine at high altitude by response surface methodology and sequential quadratic programming
Authors: Wang Jun , Shen Lizhong , Bi Yuhua , Liu Shaohua , Wan Mingding
Published: February 2018

Based on a review of the research methods about diesel engine performance recovery at high altitude and an experimental investigation, by optimizing variable nozzle turbocharger (VNT) and fuel supply system calibration parameters a novel method is proposed to enhance the performance of a turbocharged diesel engine at high altitude. At an altitude of 1920 m, four calibration parameters deeply affecting performance of the diesel engine were selected at the rated power condition, that is, injection quantity, injection timing, injection pressure, and VNT nozzle opening. In order to reduce thermal load of the diesel engine running in the plateau environment, reasonable coded levels of Design of Experiments (DoE) factors were chosen, and an experimental design matrix was selected based on the Box–Behnken design. The interaction effects of the four calibration parameters on engine performance were investigated using the response surface methodology. Power recovery optimization was carried out by means of sequential quadratic programming under a minimum smoke limit and durability constraints. The results show that this performance optimization method can effectively recover engine performance at high altitude. Moreover, it can, to an extent, alleviate the problems such as deterioration of fuel consumption and high thermal load induced by the rise in elevation. With optimized calibration parameters, the rated power of the diesel engine at an altitude of 1920 m proved to be recovered to that at sea level, and there was an increase of brake specific fuel consumption by less than 3% compared with that in the plain area, which met the performance and durability requirements for general turbocharged internal combustion engines at altitudes lower than 2000 m.
Flight test of flying-wing type unmanned aerial vehicle with partial wing-loss
Authors: Kim Kijoon , Kim Seungkeun , Suk Jinyoung , Ahn Jongmin , Kim Nakwan , Kim Byoung-Soo
Published: February 2018

This paper investigates experimental evaluation via flight tests for applying adaptive neural network controller to a flying-wing type unmanned aerial vehicle experiencing partial wing-loss. For this, six-degree-of-freedom numerical model is constructed taking into account damage-induced changes to the unmanned aerial vehicle in aerodynamic coefficients, mass, center of gravity, and moments of inertia. Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the flight dynamics change and to verify the performance of the neural network based controller. During the flight test, main wing-loss is artificially generated by 22% or 33% area moment. The flight test verifies that the damaged unmanned aerial vehicle shows drastic roll behavior with the unstable longitudinal response, and the neural network based adaptive controller combined with feedback linearization successfully compensates for the wing damage.
The possible macroeconomic and sectoral impacts of carbon taxation on Turkey’s economy: A computable general equilibrium analyses
Authors: Aydın Levent
Published: February 2018

Although the idea of carbon tax was debated widely in the early 1970s, the first carbon taxes were imposed in some Northern European countries at the beginning of the 1990s. Since the Paris summit in 2015, there has been a growing interest in carbon tax that has begun to increase again. Although Turkey’s share of carbon emissions in terms of total global emissions is low, the rate of increase in emissions has increased in recent years and should be a cause for concern. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to analyze the possible effects of carbon taxes on Turkey’s economy by disaggregating the electricity sector a by using the computable general equilibrium model. Simulation results show that carbon taxation is a highly effective means to reduce carbon emissions. Despite all sectors being adversely affected, some low emission energy, textile, and other service sectors benefit from carbon pricing. The results also indicate macroeconomic costs of imposing a carbon tax at $7 per ton of carbon in terms of the decrease in GDP by 0.061% and associated with per capita utility of the representative household by 0.09% in scenario a. Imposition of successively higher carbon taxes in scenario b and scenario c results in 5.75, 12.02, and 16.95% reduction in carbon emissions at decreasing rate, respectively. However, these reductions are also accompanied by a decrease in real GDP and per capita utility from household expenditure, as macroeconomic costs, in scenarios a, b, and c at increasing rates.
HE4 is superior to CA125 in the detection of recurrent disease in high-risk endometrial cancer patients
Authors: Abbink Karin , Zusterzeel Petra LM , Geurts-Moespot Anneke J , Herwaarden Antonius E van , Pijnenborg Johanna MA , Sweep Fred CGJ , Massuger Leon FAG
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To date, biomarkers are not routinely used in endometrial cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether serum HE4 was related to clinicopathological risk factors and outcome. Second, the role of serum HE4 and CA125 was assessed as indicator for recurrent disease during follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 174 patients with endometrial cancer between 1999 and 2009 were selected for this retrospective study. Serum HE4 and CA125 were analyzed at primary diagnosis, during follow-up, and at the time of recurrence. Correlations with clinicopathological factors were studied by univariate and multivariate survival analyses. Lead time was calculated in order to determine which serum marker was elevated prior to clinical detection of recurrent disease.

Results:

Serum levels of HE4 and CA125 were significantly associated with high tumor grade, myometrial invasion, lymph node involvement, and advanced stage (p < 0.01). HE4 was an independent prognostic factor for reduced disease-free survival and overall survival with hazard ratios of 2.96 (95% confidence interval: 1.18–7.99) and 3.27 (95% confidence interval: 1.18–9.02), respectively. At recurrence, 75% of the patients had an elevated HE4 compared to 54% with an elevated CA125. HE4 levels were more frequently elevated in patients with distant metastasis compared to local recurrences, 67% and 37%, respectively. Serum HE4 detected a recurrence with a median of 126 days earlier than clinical confirmation.

Conclusion:

Elevated serum HE4 is an independent risk factor for reduced disease-free survival and overall survival. HE4 seems to be superior to CA125 in the detection of recurrent disease during follow-up, mainly in high-risk endometrial cancer patients who are more prone to distant metastasis.
Embedded blends and meaning construction in Modest Musorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition
Authors: Tsougras Costas , Stefanou Danae
Published: February 2018

Conceptual blending is a cognitive theory positing the combination of diverse conceptual spaces for the creation of novel blended spaces. Musical conceptual blending can be intra-musical, pertaining to the combination of diverse structural elements for the creation of new melodies, harmonies or textures, as well as cross-domain, involving the integration of musical and non-musical spaces for the creation of novel analogies or metaphors. This article presents a structural and hermeneutical analysis of “Il vecchio castello” and “Samuel Goldenberg und Schmuÿle” from Modest Musorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition in an attempt to disclose both the intra-musical (combination of modal, tonal or coloristic harmonic spaces and rhythmic/textural structure) and extra-musical (contextual, symbolic and programmatic aspects) conceptual blending that the works incorporate. The reductional/prolongational analyses provide input for two distinct Conceptual Integration Networks, the first describing the intra-musical blending of melodic harmonization and the second proposing the cross-domain blending of the musical and pictorial input spaces into a blended hermeneutical space that projects the works’ narrative/programmatic/emotional potential. The proposed analyses show how musical structure promotes creative listening and meaning construction through complex cross-domain integration. This research suggests that conceptual blending theory as an analytical tool can promote a richer structural interpretation and experience of music, even in cases of instrumental, non-vocal compositions.
B(l)ending time, (de)compressing identity: Creative thought and meaning construction in Copy Shop (2001)
Authors: Vouvaris Petros , Tasoudis Dimitris
Published: February 2018

According to the critics of Conceptual Blending Theory (CBT), most of its creativity-related applications tend to conflate the role of producer and consumer, implicitly proposing the deduction of the former’s creative perspective from the finished product through a process of reverse-engineering the latter’s meaning-making strategies. However, given the non-linearity and multi-directionality of the actual creative praxis, the relation between these two roles as heuristic categories need not be considered so much oppositional, as dialectical. Investigating the cognitive mechanisms involved in the ongoing creative process within the context of this dialectical relationship can help us gain some insight into both perspectives, while eschewing the elusiveness of their precise demarcation. The case study presented in this article constitutes such an attempt. By adopting a CBT approach, it offers an interpretation of the creative thinking behind the 2001 short film Copy Shop, informed by the documented insights of its creators. The article proposes a shift in primary focus from the mechanics of conceptual blending to its consequences in reference to the compression and decompression of vital relations and, more particularly, Time and Identity. On the one hand, it aims at examining how the particular ways of populating and interrelating the mental spaces that input to the blend at selected time points in the film occasion Time compressions and shape temporal experience. On the other hand, it concentrates on demonstrating how Copy Shop narrativizes the same processes of (de)compressing Identity that inform the conceptual blends it proposes.
Community treatment orders: towards a new research agenda
Authors: Brophy Lisa , Edan Vrinda , Gooding Piers , McSherry Bernadette , Burkett Tatum , Carey Sue , Carroll Andrew , Callaghan Sascha , Finch Anne , Hansford Margaret , Hanson Sarah , Kisely Steven , Lawn Sharon , Light Edwina , Maher Sean , Patel Gunvant , Ryan Christopher James , Saltmarsh Keir , Stratford Anthony , Tellez Juan Jose , Toko Maggie , Weller Penelope
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to report on a half-day multi-stakeholder symposium on community treatment orders (CTOs) hosted by the Melbourne Social Equity Institute (MSEI), which identified research gaps and opportunities, and produced an agreed agenda for future CTO research.

Methods:

The MSEI convened a symposium for 22 experts in CTO research to discuss research priorities in this field in Australasia. An independent moderator elicited views and recommendations and produced a report detailing possible research projects.

Results:

Research on CTOs is contentious and there is a need to gather and examine information regarding both their use and utility. Due to the complexities involved, it was agreed that research should be undertaken in partnership with persons with had lived experience of mental health problems, clinicians, policymakers and other interdisciplinary stakeholders. Five key areas for future investigation were identified.

Conclusions:

The issues and recommendations arising from the symposium should shape the scope, nature and conduct of future research directions in the field.
Outcomes of a Pharmacist-Managed Heart Failure Medication Titration Assistance Clinic
Authors: Bhat Shubha , Kansal Mayank , Kondos George T. , Groo Vicki
Published: February 2018

Background: National guidelines recommend angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) and β-blockers (BBs) at target doses for morbidity and mortality benefits in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF); regardless, titration of these therapies in practice remains suboptimal. We implemented an outpatient pharmacist-managed HFrEF medication titration assistance clinic (MTAC) at one institution to improve titration for general cardiology (GC) patients. Objective: To evaluate MTAC impact by determining the proportion of patients on target or maximum tolerated ACE inhibitor/ARB and BB doses. Methods: A retrospective chart review of adult patients with documented ejection fraction ≤40% managed in the MTAC or GC from 2011 to 2013 was conducted. HFrEF medication regimens were collected at initial visit and months 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 12 to assess titration. Target doses were defined per guideline or dose at which ejection fraction recovered during the study. Maximum tolerated doses were defined as the highest dose patients tolerated without physiological limitations. Results: Of 148 patients, the MTAC managed 51 and GC managed 97. At baseline, 90% of MTAC versus 82% of GC patients were prescribed ACE inhibitors/ARBs and BBs. In the MTAC, 4% were at target or maximum tolerated doses compared with 32% of GC patients ( P < 0.001). At 12 months, 95% of patients in the MTAC and 87% in GC were prescribed ACE inhibitors/ARBs and BBs. Of those prescribed ACE inhibitors/ARBs and BBs, 64% in the MTAC versus 40% in GC reached target or maximum tolerated doses ( P = 0.01). Conclusions: The pharmacist-managed MTAC increased the proportion of patients on optimal HFrEF therapies and are a resource for GC patients.
A Comparison of Responses to Substantive Transition Prompts in Interviews With Children
Authors: Earhart Becky , Danby Meaghan C. , Brubacher Sonja P. , Powell Martine B. , Sharman Stefanie
Published: February 2018

This study examined children’s responses to two alternate prompts used to transition to the substantive phase of an interview. Children ( N = 401) experienced four scripted events and were later interviewed. After rapport building, half of the children were asked, “Tell me what you’re here to talk to me about today,” whereas the other half were asked, “Tell me why you’re here to talk to me today.” Children’s responses were coded as informative (e.g., nouns) or uninformative (e.g., “don’t know”). The what prompt elicited more informative responses than the why prompt, and 7- to 9-year-olds were more informative than 5- to 6-year-olds regardless of the type of prompt they received. Given that the what prompt elicited more informative responses, the present study provides initial support for this phrasing when forensic interviewers transition to the substantive phase.