bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renalase Attenuates Mouse Fatty Liver Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury through Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Damage via Activating SIRT1
Authors: Zhang Tao , Gu Jian , Guo Jianrong , Chen Ke , Li Huili , Wang Jiliang
Published: December 2019

Liver ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury is a severe complication of liver surgery. Moreover, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients are particularly vulnerable to IR injury, with higher rates of postoperative morbidity and mortality after liver surgeries. Our previous study found that renalase (RNLS) was highly sensitive and responsive to oxidative stress, which may be a promising biomarker for the evaluation of the severity of liver IR injury. However, the role of RNLS in liver IR injury remains unclear. In the present study, we intensively explored the role and mechanism of RNLS in fatty liver IR injury in vivo and in vitro. C57BL/6 mice were divided into 2 groups feeding with high-fat diet (HFD) and control diet (CD), respectively. After 20 weeks’ feeding, they were suffered from portal triad blockage and reflow to induce liver IR injury. Additionally, oleic acid (OA) and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) were used in vitro to induce steatotic hepatocytes and to simulate ROS burst and mimic cellular oxidative stress following portal triad blockage and reflow, respectively. Our data showed that RNLS was downregulated in fatty livers, and RNLS administration effectively attenuated IR injury by reducing ROS production and improving mitochondrial function through activating SIRT1. Additionally, the downregulation of RNLS in the fatty liver was mediated by a decrease of signal transduction and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) expression under HFD conditions. These findings make RNLS a promising therapeutic strategy for the attenuation of liver IR injury.
Kinematics of Spherical Robots Rolling over 3D Terrains
Authors: Moazami Saeed , Zargarzadeh Hassan , Palanki Srinivas
Published: December 2019

Although the kinematics and dynamics of spherical robots (SRs) on flat horizontal and inclined 2D surfaces are thoroughly investigated, their rolling behavior on generic 3D terrains has remained unexplored. This paper derives the kinematics equations of the most common SR configurations rolling over 3D surfaces. First, the kinematics equations for a geometrical sphere rolling over a 3D surface are derived along with the characterization of the modeling method. Next, a brief review of current mechanical configurations of SRs is presented as well as a novel classification for SRs based on their kinematics. Then, considering the mechanical constraints of each category, the kinematics equations for each group of SRs are derived. Afterward, a path‐tracking method is utilized for a desired 3D trajectory. Finally, simulations are carried out to validate the developed models and the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Sneddon Syndrome: A Case Report Exploring the Current Challenges Faced with Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Cleaver Jonathan , Teo Mario , Renowden Shelley , Miller Keith , Gunawardena Harsha , Clatworthy Philip
Published: December 2019

Sneddon syndrome (SS) is a rare medium-vessel vasculopathy which characteristically presents with livedo racemosa (LR) and complications such as strokes. This case report describes a female presenting acutely with a stroke and, initially, no evidence of LR. Her antiphospholipid antibodies were negative, and her neuroimaging revealed multiple territory strokes with extensive vasculopathy and fragile neo-formed vessel collateralisation. She had progressive memory loss and multiple transient ischaemic attacks on a background of established infarctions. SS should be considered in any idiopathic medium-vessel vasculopathy despite the absence of LR. Medical therapy can be challenging and the importance of antiphospholipid status in risk stratifying anticoagulation against antiplatelet therapy is discussed with a proposed rheumatology management strategy. The medical option of hydroxychloroquine should be considered in all patients in view of its anti-thrombotic properties and efficacy in diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome with the suggestion that SS may be a forme fruste of these diseases. Neurosurgical options should be considered for recurrent transient neurological symptoms. For our patient, this included an extracranial to intracranial bypass via a radial artery graft for haemodynamic stroke management confirmed on SPECT imaging. The traditional hallmark of SS has previously been LR. This case highlights an atypical presentation stressing the importance of diagnostic vigilance in a patient with an idiopathic medium-vessel vasculopathy, together with balancing the medical risk of antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation and thrombolysis whilst revealing possible neurosurgical options in select SS patients.
Dietary Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Authors: Carson Jo Ann S. , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Anderson Cheryl A.M. , Appel Lawrence J. , Kris-Etherton Penny M. , Meyer Katie A. , Petersen Kristina , Polonsky Tamar , Van Horn Linda ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Nutrition Committee of the Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease; and Stroke Council
Published: December 2019

The elimination of specific dietary cholesterol target recommendations in recent guidelines has raised questions about its role with respect to cardiovascular disease. This advisory was developed after a review of human studies on the relationship of dietary cholesterol with blood lipids, lipoproteins, and cardiovascular disease risk to address questions about the relevance of dietary cholesterol guidance for heart health. Evidence from observational studies conducted in several countries generally does not indicate a significant association with cardiovascular disease risk. Although meta-analyses of intervention studies differ in their findings, most associate intakes of cholesterol that exceed current average levels with elevated total or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. Dietary guidance should focus on healthy dietary patterns (eg, Mediterranean-style and DASH [Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension]–style diets) that are inherently relatively low in cholesterol with typical levels similar to the current US intake. These patterns emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, lean protein sources, nuts, seeds, and liquid vegetable oils. A recommendation that gives a specific dietary cholesterol target within the context of food-based advice is challenging for clinicians and consumers to implement; hence, guidance focused on dietary patterns is more likely to improve diet quality and to promote cardiovascular health.
Myocarditis Causing Premature Ventricular Contractions
Authors: Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya , Turagam Mohit K. , Yarlagadda Bharath , Dar Tawseef , Hamblin Mark , Krause Megan , Parikh Valay , Bommana Sudharani , Atkins Donita , Di Biase Luigi , Mohanty Sanghamitra , Rosamond Thomas , Carroll Heidi , Nydegger Cheri , Wetzel Louis , Gopinathannair Rakesh , Natale Andrea
Published: December 2019

Background:

Premature ventricular contractions are a common clinical presentation that drives further diagnostic workup. We hypothesize the presence of underlying inflammation is often unrecognized in these patients with a potential for continued disease progression if not diagnosed and treated early in the disease course.

Methods:

This is a single-center, prospective study including 107 patients with frequent symptomatic premature ventricular contractions (>5000/24 h) and no known ischemic heart disease. Patients underwent a combination of laboratory testing, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and biopsy. Patients were diagnosed with myocarditis based on a multidisciplinary approach and treated with immunosuppressive therapy.

Results:

The mean age of the cohort was 57±15 years, 41% were males, and left ventricular ejection fraction was 47±11.8%. Positive positron emission tomography scan was seen in 51% (55/107), of which 51% (28/55) had preserved left ventricle function. Based on clinical profile, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose—positron emission tomography imaging, cardiac magnetic resonance, and histological data 58% patients (32/55) received immunosuppressive therapy alone and 25.4% (14/55) received immunosuppressive therapy and catheter ablation. Optimal response was seen in 67% (31/46) over a mean follow-up of 6±3 months. In patients with left ventricle systolic dysfunction, 37% (10/27) showed an improvement in mean left ventricular ejection fraction of 13±6%.

Conclusions:

Approximately 51% of patients presenting with frequent premature ventricular contractions have underlying myocardial inflammation in this cohort. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose—positron emission tomography scan can be a useful modality for early diagnosis and treatment with immunosuppressive therapy in selected patients can improve clinical outcomes.
Myocardial Extracellular Volume Fraction Adds Prognostic Information Beyond Myocardial Replacement Fibrosis
Authors: Yang Eric Y. , Ghosn Mohamad G. , Khan Mohammad A. , Gramze Nickalaus L. , Brunner Gerd , Nabi Faisal , Nambi Vijay , Nagueh Sherif F. , Nguyen Duc T. , Graviss Edward A. , Schelbert Erik B. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Zoghbi William A. , Shah Dipan J.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Cardiac magnetic resonance techniques permit quantification of the myocardial extracellular volume fraction (ECV), representing a surrogate marker of reactive interstitial fibrosis, and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), representing replacement fibrosis or scar. ECV and LGE have been independently linked with heart failure (HF) events. In deriving ECV, coronary artery disease type LGE, but not non-coronary artery disease type LGE, has been consistently excluded. We examined the associations between LGE, global ECV derived from myocardial tissue segments free of any detectable scar, and subsequent HF events.

Methods:

Mid short-axis T1 maps were divided into 6 cardiac segments, each classified as LGE absent or present. Global ECV was derived from only segments without LGE. ECV was considered elevated if >30%, the upper 95% bounds of a reference group without known cardiac disease (n=28). Patients were divided into 4 groups by presence of elevated ECV and of any LGE. Subsequent HF hospitalization and any death were ascertained. Their relationship with ECV was examined separately and as a composite with Cox proportional hazard models.

Results:

Of 1604 serial patients with T1 maps, 1255 were eligible after exclusions and followed over a median 26.3 (interquartile range, 15.9–37.5) months. Patients with elevated ECV had increased risk for death (hazard ratio [HR] 2.45 [95% CI, 1.76–3.41]), HF hospitalization (HR, 2.45 [95% CI, 1.77–3.40]), and a combined end point of both outcomes (HR, 2.46 [95% CI, 1.94–3.14]). After adjustments for covariates including LGE, the relationship persisted for death (HR, 1.82 [95% CI, 1.28–2.59]), hospitalization (HR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.12–2.27]), and combined end points (HR, 1.73 [95% CI, 1.34–2.24]).

Conclusions:

ECV measures of diffuse myocardial fibrosis were associated with HF outcomes, despite exclusion of replacement fibrosis segments from their derivation and even among patients without any scar. ECV may have a synergistic role with LGE in HF risk assessment.
Effects of Heterozygous TfR1 (Transferrin Receptor 1) Deletion in Pathogenesis of Renal Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Yasumura Seiki , Naito Yoshiro , Okuno Keisuke , Sawada Hisashi , Asakura Masanori , Masuyama Tohru , Ishihara Masaharu
Published: December 2019

Renal fibrosis is the final pathological process common for several types of end-stage renal diseases, including obstructive nephropathy and diabetic kidney disease. Substantial renal iron loads and oxidative stress have been reported to contribute to the development of renal diseases. TfR1 (transferrin receptor 1) plays a crucial role in cellular iron transport. However, there are no studies investigating TfR1 in the pathophysiology of renal fibrosis. Here, we investigate the role of TfR1 in the development of renal fibrosis. Primarily, to ascertain an association of TfR1 in the pathophysiology of renal fibrosis, we induced unilateral ureteral obstruction in wild-type (WT) and heterozygous TfR1 deleted (
TfR1
+/−
) mice.
TfR1
+/−
mice exhibited attenuated renal fibrosis, along with reduced renal expression of ferritin and 4-hydroxynonenal as compared with WT mice after unilateral ureteral obstruction. In addition, renal expression of TGFβ-RI (transforming growth factor-β receptor I) and Smad2, downstream signaling of TGFβ-RI was attenuated in
TfR1
+/−
mice compared with WT mice after unilateral ureteral obstruction. Next, we investigated the role of TfR1 in the development of diabetic kidney disease. No difference was observed in blood glucose levels and urinary albumin:creatinine ratios between WT and
TfR1
+/−
diabetic mice after streptozotocin administration. In contrast,
TfR1
+/−
mice showed suppressed renal fibrosis, along with reduced renal expression of ferritin, 4-hydroxynonenal, TGFβ-RI, and Smad2 compared with WT mice after streptozotocin administration. These results suggest that TfR1 plays an important role in the development of renal fibrosis.
Resolving New Keynesian Anomalies with Wealth in the Utility Function
Authors: Michaillat Pascal , Saez Emmanuel
Published: December 2019

At the zero lower bound, the New Keynesian model predicts that output and inflation collapse to implausibly low levels and that government spending and forward guidance have implausibly large effects. To resolve these anomalies, we introduce wealth into the utility function; the justification is that wealth is a marker of social status, and people value status. Since people partly save to accrue social status, the Euler equation is modified. As a result, when the marginal utility of wealth is sufficiently large, the dynamical system representing the zero-lower-bound equilibrium transforms from a saddle to a source, which resolves all the anomalies.
How Prevalent Are Invertebrates in Human-Animal Scholarship? Scoping Study of Anthrozoös and Society & Animals
Authors: Wilkie Rhoda M. , Moore Lisa Jean , Molloy Claire
Published: December 2019

The field of Human-Animal Studies (HAS) is about human-animal relations. However, which nonhuman animals does the field encompass? In recent years, some scholars have noted a bias towards vertebrate species, especially domesticated mammals. To assess how prevalent (or not) invertebrates have been in HAS scholarship, a three-stage scoping study was conducted of two pioneering journals in the field: Anthrozoös and Society & Animals. This article reports on preliminary findings and confirms that human-animal scholarship, as presented in these two leading journals, is characterized by “institutional vertebratism,” albeit the extent of this invertebrate knowledge gap needs to be fully assessed. If the next generation of HAS scholars are to comprehend the extensive range of interspecies contexts, they must be more inclusive in terms of the diversity of animal species studied. Widening the species net is therefore a necessary corrective to address vertebrate bias in this field.
Molecular phylogenetics and systematic revision of the south-eastern Australian Helicarionidae (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora)
Authors: Hyman Isabel T. , de la Iglesia Lamborena Irantzu , Köhler Frank
Published: December 2019

The south-eastern Australian helicarionid clade currently comprises six genera of snails and semislugs united by genital characters, including an epiphallic flagellum that produces a spiraling, spinose spermatophore, the absence of an epiphallic caecum, and the presence of at most a very short vagina. We comprehensively revise the taxonomy of this group based on comparative analyses of key morphological features and mitochondrial markers COI and 16S, revise the placement of several species described recently on the basis of shell morphology alone, and describe new taxa. The snail genus Brevisentis is monophyletic as currently understood, but includes an additional undescribed species from Wollemi National Park, New South Wales. Mysticarion is shown to contain four arboreal semislugs with wide, disjunct ranges, including one new species (Mysticarion obscurior sp. nov.). We synonymise Fastosarion staffordorum with Mysticarion hyalinus. The semislug Desidarion is synonymised with Parmavitrina, and we describe two new species of this genus, P. flavocarinata sp. nov. and P. maculosa sp. nov. The semi-arboreal semislug Cucullarion is herein included in the south-eastern Australian helicarionid clade based on morphological and genetic evidence, despite its more northerly distribution. Two small semislugs so far placed in Peloparion do not group together and a new genus, Ubiquitarion gen. nov., is described for Peloparion iridis. All of these genera, together with the semislug Helicarion (not included here), form a monophyletic radiation endemic to southeastern Australia.
Genetic and morphological variation in corallivorous snails (Coralliophila spp.) living on different host corals at Curaçao, southern Caribbean
Authors: Potkamp Gerrit , Vermeij Mark J.A. , Hoeksema Bert W.
Published: December 2019

Snails of the genus Coralliophila (Muricidae: Coralliophilinae) are common corallivores in the Caribbean, feeding on a wide range of host species. In the present study, the morphological and genetic variation in C. galea and C. caribaea were studied in relation to their association with host coral species at Curaçao. Differences in shell shape among snails living on different hosts were quantified using geometric morphometric and phylogenetic relationships were studied using two mitochondrial markers (12S and COI). Based on these analyses, a new species, C. curacaoensis sp. nov., was found in association with the scleractinian coral Madracis auretenra. Both C. galea and C. caribaea showed host-specific differences in shell shape, size, and shell allometry (i.e. changes in morphological development during growth). Shell spire variability contributed foremost to the overall variation in shell shape. In C. caribaea minor genetic differences existed between snails associated with scleractinian and alcyonacean corals, whereas in C. galea such intraspecific variation was not found. These results shed more light on morphological and genetic differences among coral-associated fauna living on different host species.
The Linz Zoocode project: a set of new proposals regarding the terminology, the Principles and Rules of zoological nomenclature. First report of activities (2014‒2019)

Authors: DUBOIS ALAIN , BAUER AARON M. , CERÍACO LUIS M.P. , DUSOULIER FRANÇOIS , FRÉTEY THIERRY , LÖBL IVAN , LORVELEC OLIVIER , OHLER ANNEMARIE , STOPIGLIA RENATA , AESCHT ERNA
Published: December 2019

In July 2014, the international meeting “Burning questions and problems of zoological nomenclature” was held in Linz (Austria). It acknowledged the presence in the current International Code of Zoological Nomenclature of a number of severe problems, and accordingly decided the creation of a new international body, the Linz Zoocode Committee (LZC), in charge of writing the Linz Zoocode, a set of new proposals regarding the terminology, the Principles and Rules of zoological nomenclature. Here we present the first report of the activities of this Committee, covering the period 2014‒2019. It contains the presentation of our work, and the first documents adopted by the Committee: the Preamble and Principles of the Zoocode, the description of its structure and a first instalment of the Zoocode Glossary. The Zoocode regulates the status of zoological nomina and nomenclatural acts (onomatergies). Its aim is to provide an explicit, precise and objective nomenclatural system for the unambiguous and universal naming of all zoological taxa recognised by taxonomists, so that, in the frame of a given classification, the nomen of each taxon is unique and distinct. It relies on a Nomenclatural Process consisting in four main stages: nomenclatural assignment and availability, taxonomic allocation, nomenclatural validity and correctness, and registration of nomina and onomatergies. Whereas the Code currently in force is based on six stated Principles, the Zoocode recognises 17 distinct ones. We here submit these documents to the consideration of the international community of zootaxonomists, in the perspective of the incorporation of these proposals into the next version of the Code.
Descriptions of two new species of Brachyzapus Gauld & Dubois (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae) from South Korea with key to a Palaearctic species
Authors: CHOI JIN-KYUNG , KOLAROV JANKO , LEE JONG-WOOK
Published: December 2019

Two new species of the genus Brachyzapus Gauld & Dubois are described from South Korea: Brachyzapus convergens sp. nov. and B. pyramidalis sp. nov. Four species of this genus are newly recorded from South Korea, with diagnoses provided. A key to species of the Palaearctic region of this genus and illustrations of their external characters are provided.
Reinstatement of Metatarsonemus Attiah (Acari: Tarsonemidae), with description of a new species, redefinition of the genus and a key to the world species
Authors: LOFEGO ANTONIO CARLOS , CAVALCANTE ANA CRISTINA CERQUEIRA , DEMITE PETERSON RODRIGO , REZENDE JOSÉ MARCOS , OCHOA RONALD , DE MORAES GILBERTO JOSÉ
Published: December 2019

A new species, Metatarsonemus caissara Lofego & Cavalcante sp. nov., is described based on females and males collected on Eugenia umbelliflora O. Berg. (Myrtaceae) from Atlantic Forest areas of São Paulo State, Brazil. Metatarsonemus Attiah is reinstated as a genus based on apomorphic attributes which are recovered through examination of specimens of the new species herein described, in addition to specimens of M. simplicissimus Attiah and M. megasolenidii Lofego & Ochoa. A cladistic analysis tentatively indicates that the Metatarsonemus lineage is sister group to a lineage comprising the genera complex Daidalotarsonemus+Ceratotarsonemus+Excelsotarsonemus in sharing four homoplasious apomorphic attributes. A dichotomous key is provided for identification of the species of this genus described so far.
New genera and species of Selenomorphini (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Iassinae), including redescription of Scaroidana Osborn, Pachyopsis Uhler and updated key to genera and species
Authors: DOMAHOVSKI ALEXANDRE CRUZ
Published: December 2019

Selenomorphini is a small tribe previously comprising four genera and 21 species, with distribution in the New World and New Caledonia. Herein are described three new species of Pachyopsis Uhler from Brazil: P. fasciatus sp. nov., P. nigrifacis sp. nov., and P. pallidus sp. nov. Two new Brazilian monotypic genera, Parapachyopsis gen. nov. and Uhleriana gen. nov. are proposed, based on P. tenebris sp. nov. and U. tornatucephala sp. nov., and an updated key to genera of Selenomorphini is provided. Pachyopsis and Scaroidana are reviewed and the detailed morphology is redescribed, including characters not previously observed and the first illustrations of the female genitalia. The type-species Scaroidana flavida Osborn is redescribed and a key to males of Pachyopsis is provided. Additionally new State records for Brazil are reported for Pachyopsis vicosensis Coelho, Scaroidana flulvula Osborn and Scaroidana flavida Osborn. Detailed comparative notes between the new genera, Pachyopsis and Scaroidana are given.
Athletes’ Perception of Leadership According to Their Perceptions of Goal Achievement and Sport Results
Authors: Gomes A. Rui , Almeida Albino , Resende Rui
Published: December 2019

In this study, we investigated whether athletes’ perceptions of coaches’ leadership differ according to their perceptions of individual and team goal achievement and their sport performance. We collected data at the beginning and end of the sport season from 180 soccer players (aged 16–18 years). We evaluated three leadership areas (transformational, transactional, and decision-making) and the participants’ perceptions of individual and team performance during the sport season. Our results showed that (a) athletes with perceptions of higher individual goal achievement evaluated their coaches more positively, (b) athletes with perceptions of higher team goal achievement started the sport season with a less positive evaluation of their coaches but ended the season with a more positive coach evaluation, and (c) athletes with higher sport performance evaluated their coaches less positively in two domains of transformational leadership but ended the season by attributing less negative feedback and passive management to their coaches. In conclusion, these athletes’ evaluations of coaches’ leadership behaviors differed according to their perceptions of goal achievement and their own sport performance.
The Crisis of the Black Worker, the U.S. Labor Movement, and Democracy for All
Authors: Wood Augustus C.
Published: December 2019

This paper contextualizes the socioeconomic condition of the African-American working class in the American Labor Movement. As the union movement continues its steady decline, African-American social conditions are deteriorating at an alarming pace. Racial oppression disrupted historically powerful labor movements as African-Americans served in predominantly subproletariat labor positions. As a result, Black workers endured the racially oppressive U.S. structure on the periphery of the U.S. Labor Movement. I argue that Black working-class social conditions are dialectically related to their subjugated position in the modern-day union movement. Therefore, for Black social conditions and working-class conditions to improve overall, the union movement must centralize the conditions of the Black workers.
Collectors, Investors and Speculators: Gatekeeper use of audience categories in the art market
Authors: Coslor Erica , Crawford Brett , Leyshon Andrew
Published: December 2019

This research examines gatekeepers’ categorization work to assess and sort audience members. Using a multi-sited ethnography and interpretivist qualitative lens, we explore how high-value art gallerists sort buyers via categories, but also encourage conformity with preferred audience categories, both for artistic consecration goals and to discourage disruptive speculation. Categories served as reference points, with preferred and problematic buyer categories providing a discursive socialization tool, but also informing gatekeeping strategies, for example, problematic behaviors and buyer categories led to value-protecting gatekeeping and exclusion, often justified in moral terms. Monitoring continued throughout the relationship, with decisions considered both fair and necessary for gallerists’ professional practice. Gatekeeping decisions included long-term temporal considerations, prompting strategies including ‘placement’, monitoring and audience recategorization. This extends gatekeeping beyond simply passing muster at the ‘gate’. We also illustrate the dynamic and fluid nature of hidden categories, which provide gatekeepers with heightened abilities to punish perceived wrongdoing.
Managing Impressions Rather Than Emissions: Volkswagen and the false mastery of paradox
Authors: Gaim Medhanie , Clegg Stewart , Cunha Miguel Pina e
Published: December 2019

The challenge of dealing with paradoxes has become a central issue in management and organization studies. Present research literature is largely inclined to idealize paradoxical framing in thinking and theorizing. We critically explore the perils paradoxes present when generated by stretch goals whose ‘achievement’ is accomplished through impression management. Using the Volkswagen emissions scandal we show how paradoxical promises, embraced discursively but not substantively, created false transcendence rather than paradoxical mastery. We contribute to paradox theory by discussing how the illusion of paradox embrace can trigger dysfunctional behaviours. In practice, the paper cautions organizations and their members from being overconfident in their ability to embrace paradoxes successfully.
An efficient leg with series–parallel and biarticular compliant actuation: design optimization, modeling, and control of the eLeg
Authors: Roozing Wesley , Ren Zeyu , Tsagarakis Nikos G
Published: December 2019

We present the development, modeling, and control of a three-degree-of-freedom compliantly actuated leg called the eLeg, which employs both series- and parallel-elastic actuation as well as a bio-inspired biarticular tendon. The leg can be reconfigured to use three distinct actuation configurations, to directly compare with a state-of-the-art series-elastic actuation scheme. Critical actuation design parameters are derived through optimization. A rigorous modeling approach is presented using the concept of power flows, which are also used to demonstrate the ability to transfer mechanical power between ankle and knee joints using the biarticular tendon. The design principles and control strategies were verified both in simulation and experiment. Notably, the experimental data demonstrate significant improvements of 65–75% in electrical energy consumption compared with a state-of-the-art series-elastic actuator configuration.
Portal vein thrombosis secondary to postoperative gastric cancer: Report of two cases
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Mei Yan , Cheng Haidong , Wu Xinlin
Published: December 2019

Few cases of portal vein thrombosis secondary to gastric cancer surgery have been reported. Here we report the diagnosis and management of two such cases. Case 1: Gastric carcinoma with acute hematemesis was detected by endoscopy in the gastric body of a 48-year-old woman. Histologic examination revealed signet-ring cell carcinoma with marked invasion of the vessels and nerves. Laparoscopic partial gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastrogastrostomy were performed. One month after surgery, imaging examination showed the formation of thrombi in the main portal vein and the right hepatic vein. Case 2: Gastric carcinoma with pyloric obstruction was clinically diagnosed in a 66-year-old woman. Laparoscopic partial gastrectomy and Billroth Roux-en-Y gastrogastrostomy were again performed. Two months after surgery, an abdominal imaging examination detected a thrombus in the right hepatic vein. Clinicians should consider portal vein thrombosis in patients with hyperthermia combined with an abnormal increase in procalcitonin.
Statistical power curve modeling to estimate wind turbine power output
Authors: Dongre Bharti , Pateriya Rajesh Kumar
Published: December 2019

In the wind industry, the power curve serves as a performance index of the wind turbine. The machine-specific power curves are not sufficient to measure the performance of wind turbines in different environmental and geographical conditions. The aim is to develop a site-specific power curve of the wind turbine to estimate its output power. In this article, statistical methods based on empirical power curves are implemented using various techniques such as polynomial regression, splines regression, and smoothing splines regression. In the case of splines regression, instead of randomly selecting knots, the optimal number of knots and their positions are identified using three approaches: particle swarm optimization, half-split, and clustering. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory datasets have been used to develop the models. Imperial investigations show that knot-selection strategies improve the performance of splines regression. However, the smoothing splines-based power curve model estimates more accurately compared with all others.
Suicide Prevention Interventions for Older People in Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chauliac Nicolas , Leaune Edouard , Gardette Virginie , Poulet Emmanuel , Duclos Antoine
Published: December 2019

Background:

The death rate due to suicide among older people is high, especially among men. Because many older people live in nursing homes or long-term care facilities in high-income countries, reviewing the impact of prevention strategies on the suicidal behavior of residents in these settings is of interest.

Methods:

Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic review of the existing literature found in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Sociological Abstracts, focusing on interventions to prevent suicidal behavior or ideation in nursing home residents. The studies’ quality was evaluated according to TIDieR and MMAT.

Results:

Only 6 studies met the inclusion criteria. Four of them described various “gatekeeper” trainings for nursing home staff and 2 described interventions focused on residents. Only 1 study was randomized. Gatekeeper training studies were mostly before/after comparisons. No intervention demonstrated a direct effect on suicidal ideation or behaviors. One study showed that “life review” had a long-lasting effect on depression scores and another that gatekeeper training led to changes in the care of suicidal residents.

Conclusions:

Interventions to prevent suicidal ideation or behaviors in nursing homes are not rigorously evaluated, and no conclusion can be drawn on their effectiveness in preventing suicidal behaviors. We propose to better evaluate gatekeeper training for staff as well as peer support. Individual interventions targeting residents could be modified for broader implementation.
Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Becker Lillian C. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Gill Lillian J. , Heldreth Bart
Published: December 2019

This is a safety assessment of glycerin as used in cosmetics. Glycerin functions as a denaturant, fragrance ingredient, hair conditioning agent, humectant, oral care agent, oral health-care drug, skin protectant, skin conditioning agent—humectant, and viscosity-decreasing agent. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) reviewed relevant animal and human data. The Panel concluded that glycerin is safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment.
Effect of the operating parameter and grinding media on the wear properties of lifter in ball mills
Authors: Yin Zixin , Peng Yuxing , Li Tongqing , Zhu Zhencai , Yu Zhangfa , Wu Guiyi
Published: December 2019

The wear of lifter in ball mill directly affects the grinding efficiency and economic cost. However, how to evaluate the variation of wear process and predict the wear distribution of lifter is poorly developed. To this end, a laboratory-scale ball mill was used to evaluate the variation of wear process of the lifter in different milling conditions of mill speed, ball filling, grinding media size and shape. Besides, a wear prediction method was used to compare and validate the experimental results. The experimental results showed that the Abbott-Firestone curve can evaluate the lifter surface topography. The wear rate of the lifter specimen is increased first and then decreased with mill speed and grinding media size. Increasing ball filling will increase the wear rate, and the grinding media shape of ball has a maximum wear rate. The wear characteristics of the lifter specimen are consisting of impact pit, indentation, plastic deformation and scratch. Furthermore, the discrete element method (DEM) simulation showed that the wear behavior on the upper surface is higher than that on the side surface of the lifter. The DEM simulation with Archard wear model is an effective tool to investigate the wear distribution on the lifter, which is in good consistent with the wear behavior measured by the experiment.
Full-scale bending test and parametric study on a 30-m span prestressed ultra-high performance concrete box girder
Authors: Su Jia-zhan , Ma Xi-lun , Chen Bao-chun , Sennah Khaled
Published: December 2019

Due to its structural efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness, ultra-high performance concrete was utilized to build the first highway overpass bridge in China. The bridge was made of prestressed ultra-high performance concrete box girders of four continuous spans of 30 m each. As the original design of such bridge was observed to be somewhat conservative, its cross-sectional dimensions, in the form of the box girder wall thicknesses were optimized in this research to lower the material cost in future bridge construction. Then, a full-scale simply supported ultra-high performance concrete box girder of 30 m span, incorporating the new box girder wall thicknesses, was fabricated and then tested under static loading to obtain research data to justify the revised design. The loading system was designed to examine the flexural behavior of the girder using two concentrated loads symmetrically located at the mid-span. Experimental results show that the optimized girder has a favorable ductile behavior and excellent flexural strength, which can meet the design requirements for serviceability and ultimate limit states. A finite element model of the tested girder was developed, using ABAQUS software, and then was verified using the experimental findings. A parametric study was then conducted to investigate the influence of key parameters on the structural response, namely, the reinforcement ratio, the number of the prestressing wires, and the web thickness. Recommendations on minimum and maximum compressive strength and tensile property of ultra-high performance concrete were proposed. Also, a simplified calculation method of prestressed ultra-high performance concrete box girder was developed based on a verified strain and stress diagrams for cross-sectional analysis. The proposed methodology can be used in future practice with confidence.
Same old song and dance? An analysis of legislative activity in a period of penal reform
Authors: Campbell Michael , Schoenfeld Heather , Vaughn Paige
Published: December 2019

After years of tough-on-crime politics and increasingly punitive sentencing in the United States, economic, political, and social shifts in the 21st century have created new opportunities for opponents of the penal status quo. By 2013, a majority of states had enacted some type of reform aimed at reducing prison populations. An emerging body of punishment and society scholarship seeks to understand the possibilities and characteristics of reform efforts by examining enacted state legislation. In this article, we use a unique data set of all proposed and passed bills in three legislative sessions in New Jersey between 2001 and 2013 to provide a nuanced empirical account of change and continuity in penal logics in the period of reform. Even when not enacted, proposed legislation shapes the penal field by introducing new ideas that are later incorporated into rhetoric, policy, or practice. Proposed bills that never become law can also alter the political calculus for reformers or their opponents. Our findings demonstrate that by expanding our universe of data, we gain insight into characteristics of “late mass incarceration” that we might otherwise miss. In particular, while we find evidence of decarceration and bifurcation logics, our analysis also demonstrates that state lawmakers continue to participate in “crime control theater” and reproduce the same punitive penal logics that helped build the carceral state.
Preliminary Efficacy of a Recruitment Educational Strategy on Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge, Research Participation Attitudes, and Enrollment Among Hispanics
Authors: Perales-Puchalt Jaime , Shaw Ashley , McGee Jerrihlyn L. , Moore W. Todd , Hinton Ladson , Resendez Jason , Monroe Stephanie , Dwyer John , Vidoni Eric D.
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Hispanics remain underrepresented in dementia clinical research. This one-arm trial aimed to assess the preliminary efficacy of a culturally tailored recruitment educational strategy among Hispanic older adults on dementia knowledge, research participation attitudes, and enrollment.

Method:

The recruitment strategy included 6 one-session culturally tailored dementia education events at trusted community senior centers. Participants received a pre–post survey including a 5-point Likert-type scale and the Epidemiology/Etiology Disease Scale to assess dementia knowledge, and a 4-point Likert-type scale assessing research participation attitudes. We gave participants contact information slips to complete if interested in dementia research. We also tracked participants’ enrollment into the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Cohort.

Results:

Dementia knowledge increased 0.9 points (5-point Likert-type scale) and 2.2 points (epidemiology/etiology disease scale, p < .001). Interest in participating in dementia research increased from 61.7% to 80.9% ( p = .039), 64.0% returned their contact information slips, and 41.1% successfully enrolled into the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Cohort.

Conclusion:

A recruitment strategy including culturally tailored dementia education improves dementia knowledge, research participation attitudes, and enrollment among Hispanic older adults.
Mold-level prediction based on long short-term memory model and multi-mode decomposition with mutual information entropy
Authors: Su Wenbin , Lei Zhufeng
Published: December 2019

The mold is referred to as the heart of the continuous casting machine. Mold-level control is one of the keys to ensuring the quality of a high-efficiency continuous casting slab. This article addresses the failure of the mold-level prediction model in the actual production process to overcome the impact of noise. To improve the accuracy of mold-level prediction, a novel method for mold-level prediction based on the multi-mode decomposition method and the long short-term memory model is proposed. First, empirical mode decomposition of the mold-level data is performed. The actual eigenmode component number K is obtained through the calculation of the mutual information entropy of the eigenmode components. Then, we perform a K-based variational mode decomposition on the mold-level data. The noise dominant component is denoised by the calculation of the mutual information entropy of the eigenmode components. Moreover, the long short-term memory model is used to predict the noise dominant component and the information dominant component after denoising. Finally, the predicted result is subjected to variational mode decomposition reconstruction to obtain the predicted mold-level data. The experimental results show that compared with the other methods tested, the model has better prediction efficiency, prediction accuracy, and generalization ability. It provides a new idea for mold-liquid-level prediction and continuous casting blank quality assurance.
EphrinB2 regulates osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells and alveolar bone defect regeneration in beagles
Authors: Wang Penglai , Wang Wen , Geng Tengyu , Liu Yi , Zhu Shaoyue , Liu Zongxiang , Yuan Changyong
Published: December 2019

EphrinB2, a membrane protein regulating bone homeostasis, has been demonstrated to induce osteogenic gene expression in periodontal ligament fibroblasts. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of ephrinB2 on osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells and on alveolar bone regeneration in vivo. We assessed the osteogenic gene expression and osteogenic differentiation potential of ephrinB2-modified human and canine periodontal ligament stem cells, in which ephrinB2 expression was upregulated via lentiviral vector transduction. EphrinB2-modified canine periodontal ligament stem cells combined with PuraMatrix were delivered to critical-sized alveolar bone defects in beagles to evaluate bone regeneration. Results showed that ephrinB2 overexpression enhanced osteogenic gene transcription and mineral deposition in both human and canine periodontal ligament stem cells. Animal experiments confirmed that ephrinB2-modified canine periodontal ligament stem cells + PuraMatrix resulted in greater trabecular bone volume per tissue volume and trabecular thickness compared with other groups. Our study demonstrated that ephrinB2 promoted osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells and alveolar bone repair in beagles, highlighting its therapeutic potential for the treatment of alveolar bone damage.
Free cholesterol transfer to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) upon triglyceride lipolysis underlies the U-shape relationship between HDL-cholesterol and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Feng Ma , Darabi Maryam , Tubeuf Emilie , Canicio Aurélie , Lhomme Marie , Frisdal Eric , Lanfranchi-Lebreton Sandrine , Matheron Lucrèce , Rached Fabiana , Ponnaiah Maharajah , Serrano Carlos V , Santos Raul D , Brites Fernando , Bolbach Gerard , Gautier Emmanuel , Huby Thierry , Carrie Alain , Bruckert Eric , Guerin Maryse , Couvert Philippe , Giral Philippe , Lesnik Philippe , Le Goff Wilfried , Guillas Isabelle , Kontush Anatol
Published: December 2019

Background

Low concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) represent a well-established cardiovascular risk factor. Paradoxically, extremely high HDL-C levels are equally associated with elevated cardiovascular risk, resulting in the U-shape relationship of HDL-C with cardiovascular disease. Mechanisms underlying this association are presently unknown. We hypothesised that the capacity of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to acquire free cholesterol upon triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TGRL) lipolysis by lipoprotein lipase underlies the non-linear relationship between HDL-C and cardiovascular risk.

Methods

To assess our hypothesis, we developed a novel assay to evaluate the capacity of HDL to acquire free cholesterol (as fluorescent TopFluor® cholesterol) from TGRL upon in vitro lipolysis by lipoprotein lipase.

Results

When the assay was applied to several populations markedly differing in plasma HDL-C levels, transfer of free cholesterol was significantly decreased in low HDL-C patients with acute myocardial infarction (−45%) and type 2 diabetes (–25%), and in subjects with extremely high HDL-C of >2.59 mmol/L (>100 mg/dL) (−20%) versus healthy normolipidaemic controls. When these data were combined and plotted against HDL-C concentrations, an inverse U-shape relationship was observed. Consistent with these findings, animal studies revealed that the capacity of HDL to acquire cholesterol upon lipolysis was reduced in low HDL-C apolipoprotein A-I knock-out mice and was negatively correlated with aortic accumulation of [3H]-cholesterol after oral gavage, attesting this functional characteristic as a negative metric of postprandial atherosclerosis.

Conclusions

Free cholesterol transfer to HDL upon TGRL lipolysis may underlie the U-shape relationship between HDL-C and cardiovascular disease, linking HDL-C to triglyceride metabolism and atherosclerosis.
Book review: Zhang, X., Yang, E., & Thomas, N: Enterprise Management Control Systems in China
Authors: Asdullah Muhammad Ashar , Yazdifar Hassan
Published: December 2019

Zhang, X., Yang, E., & Thomas, N: Enterprise Management Control Systems in China, 2014, Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer, 352 pp., €152,59 (hardback), ISBN: 9783642547140.