bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma Presenting as Paraspinal Muscle Metastatic Mass
Authors: Harrison Matthew , Jones Amanda , Abebe Abebe
Published: July 2018

A 39-year-old male presented with a painful paraspinal mass, which had been present for several weeks. The mass had previously been treated with oral sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim DS, as the patient reported a history of “boils,” with no improvement in his pain or size of the mass. No further diagnostic workup was pursued until he was admitted with intractable pain. Eventual biopsy revealed adenocarcinoma, likely of pulmonary origin. This report, as well as other incoming cases, highlights this rare phenomenon of muscular metastases as the sole presentation of a distant primary malignancy.
On-Machine Optical Probe Based on Discrete Rotational Symmetric Triangulation
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Jianxiang , Fei Kai , Zhang Quan
Published: July 2018

In the field of modern manufacturing, probes have been playing a more and more crucial role. However, contact probes are unfit for measuring objects with soft surfaces or very tiny cavities and require radius compensation of stylus. In comparison, noncontact probes such as optical probes do not have to consider these problems and are well-performed in measurement. However, existing optical probes (triangulation) may fail to detect objects with rich spatial structures (due to the occlusion effect) and highly reflective curved surfaces (due to existence of highlight spots). Considering the problems, an optical probe based on discrete rotational symmetric triangulation is proposed in this paper. The emitting laser beam of the probe is the rotational axis and the five receiving optical paths (lenses and mirrors) are rotationally symmetrically distributed around the laser axis and are coimaged on a CMOS camera. Results of simulations and experiments show that the new-established prototype is designed with good robustness under various conditions such as different surface characteristics and different inclination degrees. The probe enables conducting real-time on-machine measurement without directional dependency with a resolution of 39 μm and repeatability accuracy of 0.72 μm.
Transient Analysis of Speed-Varying Rotor with Uncertainty Based on Interval Approaches
Authors: Wei Tao , Gou WenXuan , Fu Chao , Yang YongFeng
Published: July 2018

The nonintrusive Chebyshev interval method is used to analyze the transient response of a rotor system. The main idea is to analyze the uncertainty in speed-varying rotor systems and reduce the error in the calculation. The hybrid analysis procedure, which combines the black-box modeling and overestimation controlling, is proposed via the Chebyshev approximation and searching the extreme values of the approximation function for the uncertain response. It can both increase accuracy and improve the computational efficiency of the proposed method. Effects of the uncertain parameters on response bounds and estimation errors of the system are investigated, e.g., supporting stiffness and damping. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are verified via comparing with the scanning method. Overestimation effects caused by the interval arithmetic can be controlled, particularly the sensitive domains near the critical speed. It can provide guidance for general uncertain transient mechanical systems, particularly those that have severe fluctuations near resonances.
Immunohistochemical Coexpression of Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule and Alpha-Fetoprotein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lima Leonardo do Prado , Machado Carla Jorge , Rodrigues João Bernardo Sancio Rocha , Vasconcellos Leonardo de Souza , Junior Eduardo Paulino , Vidigal Paula Vieira Teixeira , Resende Vivian
Published: July 2018

Background and Aim. The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) has been proposed as a marker for cancer stem cells in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as in the development of novel target therapies. This study aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical expression of EpCAM and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in HCC patients and their association with clinicopathological characteristics. Methods. This study included Child-Pugh A HCC patients undergoing curative surgical resection. Results. A significant difference was observed in the ratio between the different phenotypes (p = 0.002), identifying 12 (29.3%) EPCAM positive tumors and 29 (70.7%) negative tumors. EpCAM+ expression was associated with AFP + (OR = 12.5, 95% CI, 1.9-84.1, p<0.001). In univariate analysis, a significant association was observed between AFP+ and EPCAM+ and the serum AFP level. A diameter of ≤ 5 cm was associated with EPCAM+, while angiolymphatic invasion was associated with APF+. In a multivariate analysis, only tumors of ≤ 5 cm were significantly associated with EpCAM+ (OR = 8.7; 95%CI, 1.27-100.0; p = 0.022). The overall survival rate was 74.9%, 69.4%, 69.4%, and 53.5% at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months, respectively. Conclusion. A considerable number of patients with EpCAM+ HCC would benefit from a specific target therapy.
Analysis of Anthocyanins Extracted from the Acai Fruit (Euterpe oleracea): A Potential Novel Vital Dye for Chromovitrectomy
Authors: Peris Cristiane S. , Caiado Rafael R. , Souza Lima-Filho Acácio Alves , Rodrigues Eduardo B. , Farah Michel Eid , Gonçalves Mariana Batista , de Queiroz Alves Bruno , Palma Urushima Joao Guilherme , Ragazzi Raul , Maia Mauricio
Published: July 2018

Purpose. To classify and quantify anthocyanins in a vital dye extracted from the acai fruit (Euterpe oleracea), adjust pH and osmolarity, and perform lyophilization to develop a new chromovitrectomy dye. Methods. Three dye concentrations 10%, 25%, and 35% (equivalent to 100, 250, and 350 mg of lyophilized acai fruit pulp extract samples) were evaluated when diluted in 1 ml of phosphate-buffered solution (pH 7 and 300 mOsm). The dye was analyzed by mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to identify and quantify anthocyanins molecules. Results. The pH and osmolarity correction and lyophilization were performed without damaging the anthocyanin molecular structure. Mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of five anthocyanins in the three concentrations of the dye. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside was the major anthocyanin found. HPLC showed that the concentration of anthocyanin was similar, independent of the dye concentration tested. Conclusions. Lyophilization and the correction of pH and osmolarity (7.00 and 300 mOsm, resp.) were performed successfully. Five anthocyanins are present in the dye from the acai fruit. The major anthocyanin is cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. Independent of the dye concentration tested, the anthocyanin concentration was similar. Standardized chemical characteristics of this new dye may allow its use during chromovitrectomy in humans.
Inverse Identification of Virtual Material Parameters Using Surface Response Methodology
Authors: Cui Fangyuan , Hua Dengxin , Li Pengyang , Lu Shikun , Li Yan , Kong Lingfei
Published: July 2018

The virtual material model is now widely applied for modeling the dynamical performance of assembled structures since it can effectively represent the complicated contact behavior of joint interfaces despite being relatively simple to create. In this study, a virtual material model is adopted for modeling the dominant physics of a bolted joint subject to a set of pretightening conditions. The unknown virtual material parameters are acquired by an inverse identification procedure that uses the surface response methodology. The greatest advantage of this approach is the ease with which it acquires the joint parameters without taking apart a built-up structure to do special measurements on each separated component. Intricate theoretical calculations can also be avoided when this method is used. This study addresses the responses of virtual material parameters under different pretightening considerations. Predictions based on the identified virtual material parameters are compared with the corresponding results obtained using the analytical method. The correlation between the two sets of results at all preload levels is promising, which indicates the successful identification of the virtual material parameters.
Functions of the C2H2 Transcription Factor Gene thmea1 inTrichoderma harzianumunder Copper Stress Based on Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Mei Jie , Wang Lirong , Jiang Xiliang , Wu Beilei , Li Mei
Published: July 2018

Trichodermaspp. are important biocontrol filamentous fungi and have tremendous potential in soil bioremediation. In our previous studies, a C2H2 type transcription factor coding gene (thmea1) was cloned from a biocontrol agentT. harzianumTh-33; the encoded sequence ofthmea1contained 3 conserved C2H2 domains with Swi5 and Ace2 inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. Thethmea1knockout mutantΔthmea1showed 12.9% higher copper tolerance than the wild-type Th33. To elucidate the function ofthmea1and its relationship with copper stress response, we conducted transcriptome sequencing and analysis of wild-type Th33 andΔthmea1under 0.8 mM copper stress. A total of 1061 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the two strains, all DEGs were assigned to KEGG pathway database, 383 DEGs were annotated in 191 individual pathways, and the categories of ribosomal protein synthesis and amino acid metabolism were the most highly enriched ones. Analysis of related DEGs showed that the expression levels of intracellular glutathione detoxification enzyme, heat shock proteins, and ribosomal proteins inΔthmea1were higher than that of the wild-type Th33, and the expression of metallothionein (MT) gene did not change. In addition, the expression levels of genes coding for proteins associated with the Ccc2p-mediated copper chaperone Atx1p transport of copper ions into the Golgi secretory pathway increased, as well as the copper amine oxidase (CuAO). These findings suggest that Thmea1 is a negative regulated factor of copper tolerance ability inT. harzianum. It does not show metallothionein expression activator activities as that of Ace2 inS. cerevisiae. We hypothesize that afterT. harzianumhas lost itsthmea1gene, the ability of cells to scavenge reactive oxygen species, mainly through the glutathione antioxidant system, is enhanced, whereas protein synthesis and repair and copper secretion increase under copper stress, which increases the ability of the mutant strain to tolerate copper stress.
Analyses of Archival Cartographic Materials for Geomorphological Changes of River Channel
Authors: Suziedelyte-Visockiene Jurate , Stanionis Arminas , Tumeliene Egle , Puziene Ruta
Published: July 2018

In Lithuania, the old archival topographic maps of locations of small and medium scale and 1 : 10,000 scale contour photo plans were created on the basis of aerial images. The material of these scales provides documented records on the condition of the objects in the location and the landscape at the moment of aerial photography. Those maps can be used to restore the accurate topographic image of the terrain and buildings in 1945–1951 and in later years and perform the necessary topographic, photogrammetric, and geodetic measurements of the parameters of objects, to identify the location of objects and changes. This information is necessary for a variety of disputed property issues and for building farmhouses in reserves, in areas of forestry land parcels, and for assessment of changes in the landscape. Studies of landscape changes are needed for the assessment of renaturalization processes. This paper presents the geodetic method used for geomorphological changes at the channel of River Žalesa during the period 1942–2017, based on the collected archival cartographic materials: historical topographic maps from archive of the Lithuanian State Company Land Fund, Land Information System, and land management projects and orthophoto maps from Lithuanian spatial information portal and free open‐access Sentinel‐1 satellite data from the Copernicus Open Access Hub.
Renoprotective Effect of Platelet‐Rich Plasma on Cisplatin‐Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Salem Neveen , Helmi Nawal , Assaf Naglaa
Published: July 2018

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has grown as an attractive biologic instrument in regenerative medicine for its powerful healing properties. It is considered as a source of growth factors that may induce tissue repairing and improve fibrosis. This product has proven its efficacy in multiple studies, but its effect on cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity has not yet been elucidated. The present investigation was performed to estimate the protective impact of platelet‐rich plasma against cisplatin‐ (CP‐) evoked nephrotoxicity in male rats. Nephrotoxicity was induced in male Wistar rats by right uninephrectomy followed by CP administration. Uninephrectomized rats were assigned into four groups: (1) control group, (2) PRP group, (3) CP group, and (4) CP + PRP group. PRP was administered by subcapsular renal injection. Renal function, inflammatory cytokines, and growth factor level as well as histopathological investigation were carried out. Treatment with PRP attenuated the severity of CP‐induced nephrotoxicity as evidenced by suppressed creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and N‐acetyl glucosaminidase (NAG) levels. Moreover, PRP depressed intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1), caspase‐3, and transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1) levels, while enhanced the epidermal growth factor (EGF) level. These biochemical results were reinforced by the histopathological investigation, which revealed restoration of normal renal tissue architectures. These findings highlight evidence for the possible protective effects of PRP in a rat model of CP‐induced nephrotoxicity, suggesting a new avenue for using PRP to improve the therapeutic index of cisplatin.
Identification of Metastatic Lymph Nodes in MR Imaging with Faster Region-Based Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Lu Yun , Yu Qiyue , Gao Yuanxiang , Zhou Yunpeng , Liu Guangwei , Dong Qian , Ma Jinlong , Ding Lei , Yao Hongwei , Zhang Zhongtao , Xiao Gang , An Qi , Wang Guiying , Xi Jinchuan , Yuan Weitang , Lian Yugui , Zhang Dianliang , Zhao Chunbo , Yao Qin , Liu Wei , Zhou Xiaoming , Liu Shuhao , Wu Qingyao , Xu Wenjian , Zhang Jianli , Wang Dongshen , Sun Zhenqing , Gao Yuan , Zhang Xianxiang , Hu Jilin , Zhang Maoshen , Wang Guanrong , Zheng Xuefeng , Wang Lei , Zhao Jie , Yang Shujian
Published: July 2018

MRI is the gold standard for confirming a pelvic lymph node metastasis diagnosis. Traditionally, medical radiologists have analyzed MRI image features of regional lymph nodes to make diagnostic decisions based on their subjective experience; this diagnosis lacks objectivity and accuracy. This study trained a faster region-based convolutional neural network (Faster R-CNN) with 28,080 MRI images of lymph node metastasis, allowing the Faster R-CNN to read those images and to make diagnoses. For clinical verification, 414 cases of rectal cancer at various medical centers were collected, and Faster R-CNN–based diagnoses were compared with radiologist diagnoses using receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC). The area under the Faster R-CNN ROC was 0.912, indicating a more effective and objective diagnosis. The Faster R-CNN diagnosis time was 20 s/case, which was much shorter than the average time (600 s/case) of the radiologist diagnoses.

Significance: Faster R-CNN enables accurate and efficient diagnosis of lymph node metastases. Cancer Res; 78(17); 5135–43. ©2018 AACR.
Comparative Study between Silodosin and Tamsulosin in Expectant Therapy of Distal Ureteral Stones
Authors: Gharib Tarek , Mohey Ahmed , Fathi Abdallah , Alhefnawy Mohamed , Alazaby Hisham , Eldakhakhny Amr
Published: July 2018

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of silodosin against tamsulosin as medical expulsion therapeutic agent in stone lower 1/3rd ureter. Patients and Methods: One hundred fifty patients divided equally into 2 groups I and II received silodosin 8 mg and tamsulosin 0.4 mg respectively. Patients aged 18 years or older having single unilateral stone 10 mm or less were included in the study. Patients with bilateral or multiple stones, marked hydronephrosis, previous open or endoscopic surgery and having urinary infection were excluded. Patients were followed weekly for 4 weeks by ultrasonography, plain radiography of the urinary tract and CT of the urinary tract when indicated. Results: Silodosin showed better results against tamsulosin as stone expulsion rate in silodosin and tamsulosin groups was 82.4 and 61.5% respectively with significant difference (p = 0.007). Also, the stone expulsion time was significantly lower in silodosin against tamsulosin groups as it was 9.4 ± 3.8 vs. 12.7 ± 5.1 days in group I and II respectively (p = 0.001). The adverse effects were comparable with non-significant more retrograde ejaculation in the silodosin group. Conclusion: Silodosin showed better efficacy in the stone expulsion rate and time with comparable safety of both drugs, with nonsignificant more retrograde ejaculation in silodosin.
Rapamycin Reduces Podocyte Apoptosis and is Involved in Autophagy and mTOR/ P70S6K/4EBP1 Signaling
Authors: Jin Juan , Hu Kang , Ye Meiyu , Wu Diandian , He Qiang 
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of rapamycin (RAP) on autophagy in podocytes and the therapeutic effects of RAP on idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). Methods: We established an in vitro model of IMN by preconditioning mouse podocytes with puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN). A Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to detect the proliferation of each group of podocytes. Podocyte apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry via annexin V/propidium iodide dual staining. Subsequently, we observed the number of autophagosomes by transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to detect the levels of LC3, mTOR, p-mTOR, 4EBP1, p-4EBP1, P70S6K, and p-P70S6K in each group. Results: The number of podocytes in the PAN + 100 ng/mL RAP group, PAN + 200 ng/mL RAP group, and PAN + 300 ng/mL RAP group was significantly increased (P < 0.01). The apoptotic rate of podocytes was significantly different between the PAN group and the PAN + RAP group (P < 0.001). There were fewer autophagic corpuscles in the PAN group and more autophagosomes were observed in the PAN + RAP group. LC3 protein expression was down-regulated in the PAN group, while its expression was up-regulated in the PAN + RAP group. In the PAN group, the levels of phosphorylated mTOR, 4EBP1, and P70S6K were increased, while in the PAN + RAP group, protein phosphorylation was reduced. Conclusions: RAP can effectively inhibit the mTOR/P70S6K/4EBP1 signaling pathway, and activate podocyte autophagy, consequently reducing podocyte apoptosis. Therefore, RAP could be used for the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy.
Establishment and Characterization of a Novel Cell Line Derived from a Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Anal Canal
Authors: Dizdar Levent , Drusenheimer Jasmin , Werner Thomas A. , Möhlendick Birte , Schütte Sina C. , Esposito Irene , Filler Timm J. , Knoefel Wolfram T. , Krieg Andreas
Published: July 2018

Background: Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (GEP-NECs) are biologically aggressive tumors, associated with a very poor survival. Due to their rarity, our knowledge on GEP-NEC biology is very limited. The aim of this study was to establish a GEP-NEC cell line model that might contribute to a better understanding of this rare malignant disease to further develop novel therapeutic approaches in preclinical studies. Methods: Small cell neuroendocrine cancer cell line NEC-DUE3 was derived from a lymph node metastasis of a neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) located at the anal canal. Morphological characteristics and the expression of neuroendocrine markers were comprehensively investigated. For genetic profiling, NEC-DUE3 cells were analyzed by DNA fingerprinting. Chromosomal aberrations were mapped by array comparative genomic hybridization. NEC-DUE3 cell tumorigenicity was evaluated in vivo and the sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents was assessed in vitro. Results: NEC-DUE3 cells were characterized by the expression of molecular markers that are commonly observed in GEP-NECs, were sensitive to treatment with cisplatin, and able to form tumors in immunodeficient mice. Conclusion: We established and characterized the first small cell GEP-NEC cell line that may serve as a valuable tool to create a better understanding of the biology of these rare tumors and to develop novel treatment strategies.
Direct Reprogramming of Fibroblasts Into Smooth Muscle-Like Cells With Defined Transcription Factors—Brief Report
Authors: Hirai Hiroyuki , Yang Bo , Garcia-Barrio Minerva T. , Rom Oren , Ma Peter X. , Zhang Jifeng , Chen Y. Eugene
Published: July 2018

Objective—

To identify the transcription factors that could contribute to direct reprogramming of fibroblasts toward smooth muscle cell fate.

Approach and Results—

We screened various combinations of transcription factors, including Myocd (myocardin), Mef2C (myocyte enhancer factor 2C), Mef2B (myocyte enhancer factor 2B), Mkl1 (MKL [megakaryoblastic leukemia]/Myocd-like 1), Gata4 (GATA-binding protein 4), Gata5 (GATA-binding protein 5), Gata6 (GATA-binding protein 6), Ets1 (E26 avian leukemia oncogene 1, 5’ domain), and their corresponding carboxyterminal fusions to the transactivation domain of MyoD (myogenic differentiation 1)—indicated by *—for their effects on reprogramming mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human adult dermal fibroblasts to the smooth muscle cell fate as determined by the expression of specific markers. The combination of 3 transcription factors, Myocd (or Myocd*) with Mef2C (or Mef2C*) and Gata6, was the most efficient in enhancing the expression of smooth muscle marker genes and decreasing fibroblast gene expression. Additionally, the derived induced smooth muscle-like cells showed a contractile phenotype in response to carbachol.

Conclusions—

Combination of Myocd and Gata6 with Mef2C* (MG2*) could sufficiently and efficiently direct differentiation of mouse embryonic and human dermal fibroblasts into induced smooth muscle-like cells, thus opening new opportunities for disease modeling, tissue engineering, and personalized medicine.
THO Complex-Dependent Posttranscriptional Control Contributes to Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Fate Decision
Authors: Yuan Xinli , Zhang Tao , Yao Fang , Liao Yingnan , Liu Fei , Ren Zongna , Han Leng , Diao Lixia , Li Yankui , Zhou Bingying , He Fan , Wang Li
Published: July 2018

Rationale:

Modulation of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype plays a fundamental role in vascular development and diseases. Although extensive studies uncovered the roles of transcriptional regulation in VSMC-specific gene expression, how posttranscriptional regulation contributes to VSMC fate decisions remains to be determined.

Objective:

To establish THO complex-dependent VSMC gene expression as a novel regulatory basis controlling VSMC phenotypes.

Methods and Results:

Immunohistochemical staining against THOC2 and THOC5, 2 components of the THO complex, revealed a dramatic reduction in their expression in human arteries undergoing carotid endarterectomy compared with normal internal mammary arteries. Silencing of THOC2 or THOC5 led to dedifferentiation of VSMCs in vitro, characterized by decreased VSMC marker gene expression and increased migration and proliferation. Furthermore, RNA high-throughput sequencing (Seq) revealed that THOC5 silencing closely resembled the gene expression changes induced on PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor)-BB/PDGF-DD treatments in cultured VSMCs. Mechanistically, THOC2 and THOC5 physically interacted with and functionally relied on each other to bind to specific motifs on VSMC marker gene mRNAs. Interestingly, mRNAs that lost THOC2 or THOC5 binding during VSMC dedifferentiation were enriched for genes important for the differentiated VSMC phenotype. Last, THOC5 overexpression in injured rat carotid arteries significantly repressed loss of VSMC marker gene expression and neointima formation.

Conclusions:

Our data introduce dynamic binding of THO to VSMC marker gene mRNAs as a novel mechanism contributing to VSMC phenotypic switching and imply THOC5 as a potential intervention node for vascular diseases.
Attenuated Face Processing during Mind Wandering
Authors: Denkova Ekaterina , Brudner Emily G. , Zayan Kristen , Dunn Joseph , Jha Amishi P.
Published: July 2018

Mind wandering (MW) has been recently investigated in many studies. It has been suggested that, during MW, processing of perceptual stimuli is attenuated in favor of internal thoughts, a phenomenon referred to as perceptual decoupling. Perceptual decoupling has been investigated in ERP studies, which have used relatively simple perceptual stimuli, yet it remains unclear if MW can impact the perceptual processing of complex stimuli with real-world relevance. Here, we investigated the impact of MW on behavioral and neural responses to faces. Thirty-six participants completed a novel sustained attention to response task with faces. They were asked to respond to upright faces (nontargets) and withhold responses to inverted faces (targets) and to report intermittently if they were “On task” or “Off task.” Behavioral analyses revealed greater intraindividual coefficient of variation for nontarget faces preceding Off task versus On task. ERP analyses focused primarily on the N170 component associated with face processing but also included the P1 and P3 components. The results revealed attenuated amplitudes to nontarget faces preceding Off task versus On task for the N170, but not for the P3 or P1. These findings suggest decoupled visual processing of faces during MW, which has implications for social neuroscience research.
A contribution to Centaurea sect. Microlophus (Asteraceae, Cardueae) in Iran
Authors: RANJBAR MASSOUD , ASKARI ALI , MOHAMMADI SOMEH
Published: July 2018

Centaurea masjedsoleymanensis endemic to SW Iran and C. palanganensis endemic to W Iran are described as new species and illustrated. Centaurea masjedsoleymanensis is distinguished from its closely related species, C. pabotii, by having shorter median and upper cauline leaves, a spine of phyllaries up to 4 mm long, incised median cauline leaves, and smaller upper cauline leaves. Centaurea palanganensis is distinguished from C. thracica by having decurrent median cauline leaves, oblong or elliptic basal cauline leaves, phyllaries with a median appendage 10–13 mm long and a spine up to 2 mm long. The IUCN conservation status of both new species is evaluated as Vulnerable (VU). Results from cytogenetic analyses indicated that new taxa are diploid (2n = 2x = 16), which is consistent with the proposed base number of x = 8 for the genus. Meiosis was observed as regular, with bivalent pairing and normal chromosome segregation. Based on the results x = 8 and 9 was determined for C. sect. Microlophus. The relationships between chromosome numbers, geographical distribution and ploidy levels indicate that both aneuploidy and polyploidy have played an important role in the speciation processes in this section.
A new species of Andinia (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae) from Huánuco, Peru, and the first Peruvian locality for Andinia schizopogon
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ ALEX GUSTAVO DIAZ , HORNA LUIS ANTONIO OCUPA , GODO LUIS ENRIQUE YUPANQUI , WILSON MARK
Published: July 2018

A new species of Andinia in subgenus Andinia from Tingo María National Park is described, illustrated and compared to the most similar species pair.  Andinia tingomariana is distinguished by unguiculate, reniform, ciliate petals, a longer column without the terminal dilation and a trilobed, ciliate lip in which the narrow, semi-auriculate lateral lobes project upward around the column, adnate in the middle, creating a furrowed surface. The floral morphology of the new species is compared to that of the phylogenetically unrelated Salpistele group of Stelis and possible convergent evolution of pollination syndromes is discussed. Finally, the first confirmed locality of A. schizopogon is reported and a preliminary list of Andinia species in Peru is provided.
Human Contribution to the Increasing Summer Precipitation in Central Asia from 1961 to 2013
Authors: Peng Dongdong , Zhou Tianjun , Zhang Lixia , Wu Bo
Published: July 2018

The ecosystem and societal development over arid Central Asia, the core connecting region of the Silk Road Economic Belt, are highly sensitive to climate change. The results derived from multiobservational datasets show that summer precipitation over Central Asia has significantly increased by 20.78% from 1961 to 2013. It remains unclear whether anthropogenic forcing has contributed to the summer wetting trend or not. In this study, the corresponding physical processes and contributions of anthropogenic forcing are investigated by comparing reanalysis and experiments of the Community Atmosphere Model, version 5.1 (CAM5.1), from the CLIVAR Climate of the Twentieth Century Plus (C20C+) Project. The observed wetting trend is well reproduced in the simulation driven by all radiative forcings (CAM5-All), but poorly reproduced in the simulation with natural forcings only (CAM5-Nat), confirming the important role of human contribution in the observed wetting trend. Moisture budget analysis shows that the observed wetting trend is dominated by the increasing vertical moisture advection term and results from enhanced vertical motion over nearly all of Central Asia. The observed contributions of moisture budget components to the wetting trend are only captured by CAM5-All experiments. The dynamic contribution is determined by the warm advection anomalies in association with a human-induced meridional uneven warm pattern. Human-induced warming increases the specific humidity over all of Central Asia, increasing (decreasing) the precipitation over the climatological ascent (descent) region in eastern (western) Central Asia.
Not lost in translation: Managerial career narratives and the construction of protean identities
Authors: Wolf Carola
Published: July 2018

How can managers remain in charge of their own careers based on personal values and motivations, rather than surrendering to the vulnerabilities of modern day corporate bureaucracies? This question represents a core issue for managers whose careers have been significantly affected by changing business environments, new organizational forms and the related changes of work organization in modern day corporations. Managers can no longer rely on the traditional linear models of organizational careers. It is increasingly demanded that they be more flexible and direct their own careers, which is captured in new career concepts, such as the ‘protean career’. Drawing on narrative identity theory, this study sets out to investigate how managers construct a protean identity and how specific narrative practices support individuals in shaping, implementing and defending this identity. The life stories of 29 individuals, all of whom have experienced significant career changes, are analysed. Based on these stories, four core narrative building blocks at the heart of protean identity construction and related narrative practices are identified, including (i) the discovery of conflicting expectations, (ii) the exploration of one’s own values and capabilities, (iii) the commitment to one’s own path and (iv) defending that path.
Institutional Work in Changing Public Service Organizations: The Interplay Between Professionalization Strategies of Non-Elite Actors
Authors: van Bochove Marianne , Oldenhof Lieke
Published: July 2018

It is often argued that increased volunteer participation in public service organizations will lead to de-professionalization of established professionals. Adopting a relational approach, this article shows that professionalization of new actors can actually initiate and reinforce the professionalization of others. This article focuses on the interplay between nonelite actors in social care that carry out institutional work aimed at pursuing three strategies: classic professionalization of volunteer coordinators, proto-professionalization of volunteers, and advanced professionalization of social care practitioners. Potential negative implications of these professionalization strategies are the hollowing out of paid social care work and the exclusion of vulnerable volunteers.
Flight control and airwake suppression algorithm for carrier landing based on model predictive control
Authors: Tang Ke , Wang Wei , Meng Yue , Zhang Mingyan
Published: July 2018

Carrier airwake will cause aircraft landing trajectory deviation from the reference glide path during the final precision approach and landing stage, hence exacerbating the operation load of pilots and increasing the risk of carrier landing. To address this issue, a flight control algorithm that employed state space model predictive control (MPC) to suppress the effect of airwake was presented for aircraft landing on the carrier in this article. The MPC controller was built on the basis of the small-disturbance motion equation of a carrier-based aircraft under the landing status. Meanwhile, in particular, the airwake model was introduced in MPC controller so that its influence could be mitigated promptly. The computer simulation experiments demonstrated that the proposed method could effectively reduce the trajectory deviation caused by airwake and improve the success rate of carrier landing.
The Value Added by Professional Certification of Municipal Finance Officers
Authors: Folz David H. , Shults Chris
Published: July 2018

Many academics and practitioners value professional training and certification programs as important ways to improve management practice and organizational performance. However, these programs often are among the first cutback targets in times of fiscal stress. Evidence that documents the actual impacts of specialized training and certification on public organizational performance is sparse. This longitudinal panel study examines the effects of a state-mandated Certified Municipal Finance Officer program on cities’ financial management performance and finds that the program had a statistically significant independent impact on the observed reduction in the number of annual outside audit findings. The program’s impact on improved financial management performance underscores the need for scholars to evaluate similar programs, the results from which may help to alter public officials’ cutback calculus and restore public confidence in the public service.
A developmental perspective on marital closeness and health in older adulthood
Authors: Burke Leah K. , Rauer Amy , Sabey Allen K.
Published: July 2018

Although closeness is a necessary element in relationships, its role in later-life marriages is less clear, with some finding benefits of greater closeness and others finding costs. To begin to reconcile these findings, the current study sought to explore older couples’ experiences of both desired and actual closeness over time. Drawing upon both socioemotional selectivity theory and the dynamic goal theory of marital satisfaction, the current study examined the stability of marital closeness among older couples and the role of health in shaping both within-spouse and cross-spouse associations. We utilized a series of cross-lagged, mutual influence, actor–partner interdependence models to examine how higher-functioning older couples’ ( NT1 = 64, NT2 = 55) actual and desired marital closeness were linked over a year and whether subjective and objective health moderated these pathways. Findings revealed that older spouses reported enjoying and desiring close relationships within their marriages, but these feelings of and desire for closeness were more stable for husbands. Moderational analyses, however, indicated that the desire for and experience of closeness were sensitive to spouses’ health. These findings suggest that both gender and health may be important considerations when understanding the stability of and cross-partner associations in marital closeness for older couples.
Anaerobic digestion of food waste with aerobic post-treatment: Effect of fruit and vegetable content
Authors: Ghanimeh Sophia , Abou Khalil Charbel , Ibrahim Elsy
Published: July 2018

A mesophilic anaerobic digester, followed by a psychrophilic aerobic post-treatment, was used to treat food waste (FW) with different proportions of fruit and vegetable waste (FVW). Two types of FW were used: low fruit and vegetable mix (LFV, with 56.5% of FVW) and high fruit and vegetable mix (HFV, with 78.3% of FVW). The anaerobic digester fed with LFV failed at an organic loading rate of 1.6 g VS.L-1.d-1 (volatile fatty acid (VFA) = 6000 mg.L-1) due to high ammonia (reaching 3000 mg.L-1). It was shown that, in an unstable anaerobic environment, ammonia is highly correlated ( r2 = 0.77) with VFA and is negatively correlated with volatile solids, total solids, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rates ( r2 = 0.88, r2 = 0.71, and r2 = 0.91, respectively). In contrast, the anaerobic digester fed with HFV exhibited a stable performance (VFA = 1243 mg.L-1), with limited ammonia accumulation (940 mg.L-1). Methane generation was affected by the FVW content and reached 531 ml CH4.g VS-1 (CH4 = 52%) with LFV feed and 478 ml CH4.g VS-1 (CH4 = 57.4%) with HFV. The overall TS, VS and COD removal rates (all ranging between 94% and 97%), were closely similar for LFV and HFV. Accordingly, the aerobic post-treatment seems to compensate for the reduced performance of the disturbed anaerobic system fed with LFV.
A Simple Scoring System Using the Red Blood Cell Distribution Width, Delta Neutrophil Index, and Platelet Count to Predict Mortality in Patients With Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Kim Yong Chan , Song Je Eun , Kim Eun Jin , Choi Heun , Jeong Woo Yong , Jung In Young , Jeong Su Jin , Ku Nam Su , Choi Jun Yong , Song Young Goo , Kim June Myung
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

The purpose of our study was to investigate whether a simple scoring system based on the red blood cell distribution width (RDW), delta neutrophil index (DNI), and platelet count was associated with the prognosis of patients with sepsis, and whether this scoring system was more useful than each individual parameter.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving adult patients who received intensive therapy due to severe sepsis and septic shock from January 2010 to December 2015 at a tertiary teaching hospital in South Korea.

Results:

A total of 730 patients were included in this study. Each patient was rated on a scale of 0 to 3 according to the new scoring system using the platelet count, RDW, and DNI. Point values were assigned based on the following definitions: RDW > 14.5%, DNI > 5.0%, and platelet count < 150 000/mm3. The 28-day mortality rate was 12.6% (92/730). The nonsurvivors had higher scores than the survivors (2.05 ± 0.80 vs 1.06 ± 0.87, P < .001). In the multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis, the scoring system was an independent predictor of the 28-day mortality. The scoring system was well calibrated ( P = .81 for the goodness-of-fit test) and discriminated (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.785).

Conclusion:

Our new scoring system using the RDW, DNI, and platelet count was useful for predicting the mortality in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.
Violence Exposure in South African Adolescents: Differential and Cumulative Effects on Psychological Functioning
Authors: Sui Xincheng , Massar Karlijn , Kessels Loes T. E. , Reddy Priscilla S. , Ruiter Robert A. C. , Sanders-Phillips Kathy
Published: July 2018

This study examined the associations between different types of violence victimization and psychological functioning in South African adolescents. Both differential and cumulative effects of violence were investigated. A multi-ethnic (Black, White, people of mixed heritage, and people of Indian/Asian descent) sample of adolescents in secondary schools in the Western Cape Province ( N = 1,574; boys = 46.5%, girls = 53.5%; Mage = 16 years) completed a survey on their experiences of exposure to violence (across different contexts and polyvictimization) and their levels of hopelessness, anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and suicidal ideation. The results showed that indirect and direct victimization in the community, and indirect political victimization were consistent predictors for adverse psychological functioning, whereas victimization in home and school contexts did not emerge to be significant. Polyvictimization had a consistent linear effect on psychological symptoms. Interventions in South Africa should focus on addressing the psychological effects of community and political victimization on adolescents. Adopting a holistic treatment approach would be useful to gain a comprehensive understanding of adolescents’ victimization experiences and maximize the impact of support to enhance their psychological functioning.
Union Railways: Ad Spot Pricing Dilemma? (B)
Authors: Ashraf Rohail , Yousaf Seeham
Published: July 2018

Faced with considerable losses and increased pressure to generate alternative sources of funding, Union Railways (UR) twice attempted to auction ad spots at their flagship trains and stations. On both the occasions, the market responded with substantially lower bids than management’s expectation. Surprised by the lackluster response, the management decided to conduct a detailed analysis of the ad spot market and engaged a team of advisers. They were tasked to help UR decide the base price for different types of ad spots (e.g. billboards, window skins, bogie door skins) and to recommend whether the ad spots be sold to either one or multiple intermediaries. Equipped with data (e.g. prevalent market rates and industry best practices) from multiple sources, the advisors faced the daunting task of designing a simple pricing mechanism that can work for multiple types of ad spots.
You’ve Been Framed! The Effect of Opportunity and Prosocial Framing on the Novelty and Usefulness of Student Solutions
Authors: Bertels Heidi M. J.
Published: July 2018

Creativity, the production of ideas that are both novel and useful, is increasingly important to businesses’ long-term success. This study looks at whether instructors can use framing—increasing the saliency of some aspects of a perceived reality in a communication —to affect the creativity of student solutions. More specifically, building on research on issues interpretation, the study examines the effect of opportunity framing on the novelty of student ideas. Building on the literature on perspective taking, the study also looks at the effect of prosocial framing on the usefulness of student ideas. Using a sample of 76 students, I found that students who received an assignment description that included opportunity framing produced more novel solutions. Students who received the same assignment but with prosocial framing created less useful solutions. These findings indicate that the novelty and usefulness (i.e., the creativity) of student solutions can be affected by framing and suggest that framing can be a valuable tool for instructors aiming to encourage creativity. Furthermore, by demonstrating that different types of framing affect novelty and usefulness, this study also reinforces the importance of measuring novelty and usefulness independently rather than looking at creativity as a composite measure.
The Quantified Behavioral Test Failed to Differentiate ADHD in Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Problems
Authors: Johansson Viktoria , Norén Selinus Eva , Kuja-Halkola Ralf , Lundström Sebastian , Durbeej Natalie , Anckarsäter Henrik , Lichtenstein Paul , Hellner Clara
Published: July 2018

Objective: The Quantified Behavioral Test (QbTest) is a computerized diagnostic test for ADHD, used in clinical psychiatric care, but its validity may be questioned. We analyzed the QbTest’s diagnostic validity and its relation to cognitive ability and psychosocial factors in an adolescent population with a high occurrence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Method: In total, 340 participants aged 15 years, completed the QbTest, along with questionnaires, clinical and intelligence quotient (IQ) assessments. Results: The clinical assessment resulted in 89 (26%) participants with ADHD. Area under curve (AUC) scores indicated a random to poor validity of the QbTest (AUC range = 0.48-0.64). QbTest scores of inattention and impulsivity correlated with IQ. Conclusion: The QbTest was insufficient as a diagnostic test for ADHD, and was not able to differentiate ADHD from other neurodevelopmental conditions. Clinicians should be aware of the dubious discriminating power of the QbTest.
Comparative Co-Evolution Analysis Between the HA and NA Genes of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Jang Jinhwa , Bae Se-Eun
Published: July 2018

Influenza A virus subtypes are determined based on envelope proteins encoded by the hemagglutinin (HA) gene and the neuraminidase (NA) gene, which are involved in attachment to the host, pathogenicity, and progeny production. Here, we evaluated such differences through co-evolution analysis between the HA and NA genes based on subtype and host. Event-based cophylogeny analysis revealed that humans had higher cospeciation values than avian. In particular, the yearly ML phylogenetic trees for the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes in humans displayed similar topologies between the two genes in humans. Substitution analysis was verifying the strong positive correlation between the two genes in the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes in humans compared with those in avian and swine. These results provided a proof of principle for the further development of vaccines according to hosts and subtypes against Influenza A virus.
Reverse Evaluation to Enhance Strategies (REVES): Place-based evaluation of central policies
Authors: Tagle Laura , Celano Serafino
Published: July 2018

Policies increasingly involve local actors, yet evaluations are mainly commissioned by central agencies, responding to their needs and values. Evaluating central policies from a local perspective requires a framework to assess the outcomes of mutually interacting policies and to rethink evaluation tasks such as identifying the object of evaluation, explicating values, and assessing causal or contribution hypotheses. REVES provides such a framework by working with trustworthy local partners and adopting their viewpoint as a guiding principle.
Identity-safe or threatening? Perceptions of women-targeted diversity initiatives
Authors: Cundiff Jessica L. , Ryuk Sohee , Cech Katie
Published: July 2018

One strategy for addressing gender disparities in STEM and leadership focuses on women-targeted diversity initiatives, such as women’s networking groups and women’s leadership development programs. Although well intentioned, targeting diversity initiatives specifically toward women instead of all employees may unwittingly make workplaces appear unwelcoming and biased to prospective employees. To test this notion, undergraduate women and men read a recruitment brochure for a company that framed its diversity initiatives as either targeting women employees or all employees. Both women and men felt less social fit and comfort with the company and were more concerned about being treated negatively and unfairly when diversity initiatives were framed as women-targeted rather than all-inclusive. These results held regardless of whether the company was portrayed as male-dominated or gender equitable (Study 1, N = 117). However, results were somewhat attenuated for women, but not men, when the women-targeted program was portrayed as initiated and led by women employees rather than upper management (Study 2, N = 152). Overall, our results suggest that diversity initiatives may more effectively convey identity safety to both women and men when framed in a way that includes all employees rather than targeting only women.