bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARHGAP18: A Flow‐Responsive Gene That Regulates Endothelial Cell Alignment and Protects Against Atherosclerosis
Authors: Lay Angelina J. , Coleman Paul R. , Formaz‐Preston Ann , Ting Ka Ka , Roediger Ben , Weninger Wolfgang , Schwartz Martin A. , Vadas Mathew A. , Gamble Jennifer R.
Published: January 2019

Background

Vascular endothelial cell (EC) alignment in the direction of flow is an adaptive response that protects against aortic diseases, such as atherosclerosis. The Rho
GTP
ases are known to regulate this alignment. Herein, we analyze the effect of
ARHGAP
18 on the regulation of EC alignment and examine the effect of
ARHGAP
18 deficiency on the development of atherosclerosis in mice.

Methods and Results

We used in vitro analysis of ECs under flow conditions together with apolipoprotein E
−/−

Arhgap
18

−/−
double‐mutant mice to study the function of
ARHGAP
18 in a high‐fat diet–induced model of atherosclerosis. Depletion of
ARHGAP
18 inhibited the alignment of ECs in the direction of flow and promoted inflammatory phenotype, as evidenced by disrupted junctions and increased expression of nuclear factor‐κB and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 and decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Mice with double deletion in
ARHGAP
18 and apolipoprotein E and fed a high‐fat diet show early onset of atherosclerosis, with lesions developing in atheroprotective regions.

Conclusions

ARHGAP
18 is a protective gene that maintains
EC
alignments in the direction of flow. Deletion of
ARHGAP
18 led to loss of
EC
ability to align and promoted atherosclerosis development.
Saliency-based Rhythmic Coordination of Perceptual Predictions
Authors: Huang Qiaoli , Luo Huan
Published: January 2019

Objects, shown explicitly or held in mind internally, compete for limited processing resources. Recent studies have demonstrated that attention samples locations and objects rhythmically. Interestingly, periodic sampling not only operates over objects in the same scene but also occurs for multiple perceptual predictions that are held in attention for incoming inputs. However, how the brain coordinates perceptual predictions that are endowed with different levels of bottom–up saliency information remains unclear. To address the issue, we used a fine-grained behavioral measurement to investigate the temporal dynamics of processing of high- and low-salient visual stimuli, which have equal possibility to occur within experimental blocks. We demonstrate that perceptual predictions associated with different levels of saliency are organized via a theta-band rhythmic course and are optimally processed in different phases within each theta-band cycle. Meanwhile, when the high- and low-salient stimuli are presented in separate blocks and thus not competing with each other, the periodic behavioral profile is no longer present. In summary, our findings suggest that attention samples and coordinates multiple perceptual predictions through a theta-band rhythm according to their relative saliency. Our results, in combination with previous studies, advocate the rhythmic nature of attentional process.
Preparing to Stop Action Increases Beta Band Power in Contralateral Sensorimotor Cortex
Authors: Muralidharan Vignesh , Yu Xinze , Cohen Mike X , Aron Adam R.
Published: January 2019

How do we prepare to stop ourselves in the future? Here, we used scalp EEG to test the hypothesis that people prepare to stop by putting parts of their motor system (specifically, here, sensorimotor cortex) into a suppressed state ahead of time. On each trial, participants were cued to prepare to stop one hand and then initiated a bimanual movement. On a minority of trials, participants were instructed to stop the cued hand while continuing quickly with the other. We used a guided multivariate source separation method to examine oscillatory power changes in presumed sensorimotor cortical areas. We observed that, when people prepare to stop a hand, there were above-baseline beta band power increases (12–24 Hz) in contralateral cortex up to a second earlier. This increase in beta band power in the proactive period was functionally relevant because it predicted, trial by trial, the degree of selectivity with which participants subsequently stopped a response but did not relate to movement per se. Thus, preparing to stop particular response channels corresponds to increased beta power from contralateral (sensorimotor) cortex, and this relates specifically to subsequent stopping. These results provide a high temporal resolution and frequency-specific electrophysiological signature of the preparing-to-stop state that is pertinent to future studies of mitigating provocation, including in clinical disorders. The results also highlight the utility of guided multivariate source separation for revealing the cortical dynamics underlying both movement and response suppression.
The species of Ecnomocephala Gibson (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae)
Authors: GIBSON GARY A. P.
Published: January 2019

The species of the New World genus Ecnomocephala Gibson (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Eupelmidae: Eupelminae) are revised. Seven species are recognized, the type species, E. townesi Gibson, 1995 (♀♂: USA), and the following six new species: E. ashei Gibson n. sp. (♀♂: French Guiana, Guyana, Venezuela), E. boliviensis Gibson n. sp. (♀: Bolivia), E. gilli Gibson n. sp. (♀♂: Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama), E. hypha Gibson n. sp. (♀: Costa Rica), E. retia Gibson n. sp. (♀: Mexico), and E. speculum Gibson n. sp. (♀: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru). The species are illustrated through macrophotography and keyed. Morphology of the sexes is compared to each other relative to sexual dimorphism and examined for implications for inferring function, character-state evolution, and phylogenetic relationships within the subfamily.
Tersilochinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) of Papua New Guinea: genera Allophrys Förster and Probles Förster
Authors: KHALAIM ANDREY I. , VILLEMANT CLAIRE
Published: January 2019

Seven species of the genus Allophrys Förster, A. cracentis sp. nov., A. daklaka Khalaim, A. madanga sp. nov., A. miklouhomaclayi sp. nov., A. occipitata Khalaim, A. parvidentata sp. nov. and A. valorosa sp. nov., and one species of Probles Förster, P. (Euporizon) papuaensis sp. nov., have been discovered from Papua New Guinea. This is the first record of these genera, as well as the subfamily Tersilochinae, from this country. An identification key to seven species of Allophrys occurring in Papua New Guinea is provided.
A new species of Landrevinae (Orthoptera) from the Philippines, with notes on Endodrelanva and Endolandrevus (Orthoptera: Gryllidae; Gryllinae; Landrevini)
Authors: TAN MING KAI , GOROCHOV ANDREJ V. , BAROGA-BARBECHO JESSICA B. , YAP SHERYL A.
Published: January 2019

Owing to the cryptic behavior and morphology of many Southeast Asian Landrevinae, new species are still being discovered in unexplored parts of the region. Here, we describe a new species: Endodrelanva siargaoensis sp. nov. We also recorded and describe the calling song of the new species. Owing to the morphological similarities between species of Endodrelanva Gorochov, 2000 and Endolandrevus Saussure, 1877, we also provide a short review of the two genera and list their characters for comparison.
Decadal Variations in the Relationship between the Western Pacific Subtropical High and Summer Heat Waves in East China
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhou Tianjun , Mao Huiting , Fu Congbin
Published: January 2019

The western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) is regarded as the key circulation system that dominates the summer heat waves over eastern China, but whether the WPSH–summer heat wave connection changes with time remains unknown. In this study, decadal variations in the WPSH–heat wave connection were examined for the period 1959–2016 using daily maximum temperature data from 654 observational stations across China and global reanalysis datasets. The results show that the correlation coefficient between the WPSH intensity (WPSHI) and the number of heat-wave days (NHD) was 0.65 (>99% confidence level) during positive phases of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), whereas that during negative phases of the PDO was only 0.12 (<80% confidence level). The remarkable difference in correlations is due to the more westward extension of a stronger WPSH in El Niño decaying summers during the positive phases of PDO. The stronger Indian Ocean warming in El Niño decaying-year summers for PDO positive phases in comparison to PDO negative phases is associated with enhanced convection and heating, which further drive a stronger anticyclone over the northwestern Pacific, leading to a stronger and more westward-extending WPSH, which is favorable for more heat waves over eastern China.
Getting to Know You: Welfare Fraud Investigation and the Appropriation of Social Ties
Authors: Headworth Spencer
Published: January 2019

State-level public assistance agencies completed nearly a million SNAP fraud investigations in fiscal year 2016. These investigations hinge on compiling incriminating information about clients. Drawing on interviews with welfare fraud workers in five U.S. states, this article shows how fraud investigators creatively exploit clients’ social networks to extract such information, and thus use clients’ social ties against them. Investigators gain some information through elective cooperation, when people voluntarily implicate others. Fraud workers say these denunciations typically arise from negative-valence ties (bad blood). Other times, investigators co-opt neutral or positive-valence ties (good will) for enforcement purposes. This co-optation includes eliciting information from unwitting acquaintances and exploiting clients’ own online social networking activity. These findings demonstrate social ties’ appropriability, through which they serve as resources for relational outsiders’ interests. Repurposing welfare clients’ social ties for fraud enforcement presents a two-fold threat to subsistence and social mobility prospects: it imposes punishments—including program disqualifications—while simultaneously damaging social support networks. These enforcement practices reveal appropriability as an unrecognized property of social ties, particularly for socioeconomically marginalized people, and constitute a noteworthy element of contemporary poverty governance.
Analysis on the problems faced by non-general language talent reserve project
Authors: Liang Yanqiu
Published: January 2019

Under the current economic development situation, “One Belt and One Road” is a development strategy highly emphasized by the countries along the “One Belt and One Road” route including Chinese Government. This strategy involves the strength development and enhancement of multiple hardwares, including economic cooperation, international trade, and infrastructure construction. Meanwhile, it also involves the enhancement of software strength, including talent cultivation and reserve, culture inheritance and advocation, policy formulation and implementation. Wherein talent reserve is the important basis, especially under the background of great integration of economy and culture, the non-general language talent cultivation and reserve project is crucial. This paper analyzes the problems existed in the non-general language talent cultivation and reserve under the background of “One Belt and One Road” and puts forward countermeasures.
Closing the Gold Window: The End of Bretton Woods as a Contingency Plan
Authors: Zoeller Christoffer J. P.
Published: January 2019

In August of 1971, President Nixon announced that the United States was “closing the gold window,” bringing an end to the postwar system of international exchange rate stability and precipitating a period of significant uncertainty and transformation in global institutions. Although this critical historical episode is important for an understanding of historical “neoliberalism” and institutional change, modern sociological perspectives have scarcely been applied to it. The present analysis uses archival data to show that closing the gold window was never the goal or preferred strategy of the Nixon administration, which had spent years preparing much more modest reforms. Nevertheless, US policymakers took this unilateral action as a contingency plan to achieve a short-term goal, knowing that it would dramatically change the functioning of the international economy. Surprisingly, the autonomous structure of the IMF did not channel US initiatives toward gradual evolution but rather helped determine a radical change in strategy.
A prospective observational study of the utility of early diagnostic laparoscopy for right lower abdominal pain: a safe and effective diagnostic and therapeutic tool
Authors: Guthrie Graeme JK , Johnston Thomas , Ewing Anne , Mullen Russell , Suttie Stuart A , Patil Pradeep V
Published: January 2019

Background and aims

Diagnostic laparoscopy is commonly performed for diagnosis of right lower abdominal pain and its use is increasing in the emergency setting. Some studies have reported that diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic appendicectomy have advantages over conventional surgery. Many emergency surgeons now perform diagnostic laparoscopy for both clinically diagnosed appendicitis and when the diagnosis is in doubt. The aim of the present study was to assess whether the use of diagnostic laparoscopy is justified and safe for those admitted with right lower abdominal pain.

Methods and results

Data were collected prospectively on consecutive patients attending the acute surgical receiving unit with right iliac fossa pain or a suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis. A total of 284 patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. Of them 233 (82%) had a positive finding at laparoscopy, 207 (88%) underwent appendicectomy, the majority of which were carried out laparoscopically. Surgical trainees performed the majority of operations and this did not have a negative impact on operative findings (p 0.856), operation performed (0.642), or operative duration (0.831). No intra-operative complications were sustained. Ultrasound examination was carried out in 49 patients, while CT was carried out in 24.

Conclusion

The results of the present study highlight the utility of early diagnostic laparoscopy as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in the acute setting.
I Blame Therefore It Was: Rape Myth Acceptance, Victim Blaming, and Memory Reconstruction
Authors: Dawtry Rael J. , Cozzolino Philip J. , Callan Mitchell J.
Published: January 2019

We examined the causal order of relationships between rape myth acceptance (RMA), victim blaming, and memory reconstruction. In Study 1, RMA-congruent memory (or alternatively, victim blaming) mediated the relationship between RMA and victim blaming (memory reconstruction). In Study 2, similar relationships emerged between RMA, victim blaming, and memory reconstruction. Although no mediation of RMA occurred in Study 2 independently, a mini meta-analysis of Studies 1 and 2 data replicated both patterns of mediation observed in Study 1. In Study 3, memory accuracy for neutral details of a rape scenario was unrelated to RMA. Manipulating memory to be more (vs. less) RMA congruent had no effect on victim blaming (Study 4), although manipulating perceived victim blameworthiness (Studies 5 and 6) produced RMA-congruent memory reconstruction when the victim was more (vs. less) blameworthy. The results suggest that, via victim blaming, RMA motivates a memory reconstruction process that explains and justifies victim blaming after the fact.
Creating the Punishment Orientation Questionnaire: An Item Response Theory Approach
Authors: Yamamoto Susan , Maeder Evelyn M.
Published: January 2019

The purpose of these studies was to examine the principles people engage in when thinking about punishment, using a new measure (the Punishment Orientation Questionnaire [POQ]). Although traditional conceptualizations of punishment divide it into utilitarianism (e.g., deterrence) and retributivism (“eye for an eye”), we argue that a more useful metric of lay attitudes concerns orientation toward or away from punishment. After pilot testing and factor analysis, we used item response theory to assess four scales: prohibitive utilitarianism (limiting punishment based on utility), prohibitive retributivism (aversion to punishing innocent people), permissive utilitarianism (willingness to give strict punishment based on the benefits thereof), and permissive retributivism (desire for just deserts). The POQ showed good predictive validity for capital jury eligibility and sentencing recommendation in response to a death penalty trial stimulus. This study provides a better understanding of how classic punishment philosophies manifest among laypersons and contributes data outside of classical test theory.
A Surveilled Existence: One Muslim’s Reality in America
Authors: Kablawi Fadi Y. , Dahab Ramsey
Published: January 2019

This article emphasizes the illusion of an American society most people believe functions as an accommodating entity whereby all citizens are provided the spaces to live free and achieve. Based on Dr. Kablawi’s experience, however, freedom demands the conformity that provides freedom. This American reality transforms some Muslims into perpetual prisoners of society. The following narrative illustrates how purpose can be discovered in a surveilled existence. What is offered is not some idiosyncratic rant against America or an invocation about the superiority of one religion over another. Rather, the purpose is to highlight the structural impediments that make being Muslim a struggle in world. This story is told in the first person but speaks to a much broader reality.
Factors Influencing How Intensive Care Unit Nurses Allocate Their Time
Authors: Despins Laurel A. , Kim Jung H. , Deroche Chelsea , Song Xuefei
Published: January 2019

Spending time with the patient is essential for intensive care unit (ICU) nurses to detect clinical change. This article reports on an examination of factors influencing nurses’ activity time allocation. Data were analyzed from a prospective time and motion study of medical ICU nurses. Nurse demographic data and observation, electronic locator technology, and electronic medical record log data were collected over 12 days from 11 registered nurses. Charlson Co-Morbidity Index and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were calculated for patient assignments. Nurses averaged 78.04 ( SD = 47.85) min per patient on activities in the patient room. Years of ICU nursing experience and the patient’s Charlson Co-Morbidity Index was significantly associated with time spent in the patient’s room. Neither nursing education nor specialty certification was found to influence time spent in a patient’s room. Using technology can advance understanding of nurses’ time allocation leading to interventions optimizing time spent with the patient.
The marketisation of rehabilitation: Some economic considerations
Authors: Albertson Kevin , Fox Chris
Published: January 2019

This paper considers criminal justice policy in England and Wales since the Transforming Rehabilitation (TR) agenda implemented in 2013. TR rested on the proposition that probation services are best provided in a market context. Motivated by profit and extrinsic rewards, private sector consortia, and their employees, theoretically act efficiently to deter and rehabilitate offenders from crime. However, there is evidence that marketisation itself undermines the prospects of efficient social policy. Over-reliance on markets may undermine pro-social norms through emphasising individualism and extrinsic returns. Outsourcing is also associated with increasing inequality, which may also undermine pro-social norms. Further, the emphasis placed on self-interest in framing market-based incentive structures is associated with declining public welfare support for the economically marginalised and increased use of relatively expensive incarceration. In application, TR proved unsustainable. The innovation involves increasing reliance on the para-state sector, in which private profits rely on public payment. However, the profits expected under TR fell short of expectations, in part due to changes in wider society. The early cancellation of TR contracts highlights the inflexible nature of such public sector procurement. On the basis of theory and practice, we suggest a reconsideration of the government’s position on probation and set out reasonable steps to address shortcomings in the current system.
Just cuts for fossil fuels? Supply-side carbon constraints and energy transition
Authors: Le Billon Philippe , Kristoffersen Berit
Published: January 2019

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions has generally been approached through demand-side initiatives, yet there are increasing calls for supply-side interventions to curtail fossil fuel production. Pursuing energy transition through supply-side constraints would have major geopolitical and economic consequences. Depending on the criteria and instruments applied, supply cuts for fossil fuels could drastically reduce and reorient major financial flows and reshape the spatiality of energy production and consumption. Building on debates about just transitions and supply constraints, we provide a survey of emerging interventions targeting the supply of, rather than the demand for, fossil fuels. We articulate four theories of justice and criteria to prioritize cuts among fossil fuel producers, including with regard to carbon intensity, production costs, affordability, developmental efficiency and support for climate change action. We then examine seven major supply constraint instruments, their effectiveness and possible pathways to supply cuts in the coal, oil and gas sectors. We suggest that supply cuts both reflect and offer purposeful political spaces of interventions towards a ‘just’ transition away from fossil fuel production.
Effects of LiDAR Point Density on Extraction of Traffic Signs: A Sensitivity Study
Authors: Gargoum Suliman , El-Basyouny Karim
Published: January 2019

Datasets collected using light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology often consist of dense point clouds. However, the density of the point cloud could vary depending on several different factors including the capabilities of the data collection equipment, the conditions in which data are collected, and other features such as range and angle of incidence. Although variation in point density is expected to influence the quality of the information extracted from LiDAR, the extent to which changes in density could affect the extraction is unknown. Understanding such impacts is essential for agencies looking to adopt LiDAR technology and researchers looking to develop algorithms to extract information from LiDAR. This paper focuses specifically on understanding the impacts of point density on extracting traffic signs from LiDAR datasets. The densities of point clouds are first reduced using stratified random sampling; traffic signs are then extracted from those datasets at different levels of point density. The precision and accuracy of the detection process was assessed at the different levels of point cloud density and on four different highway segments. In general, it was found that for signs with large panels along the approach on which LiDAR data were collected, reducing the point cloud density by up to 70% of the original point cloud had minimal impacts on the sign detection rates. Results of this study provide practical guidance to transportation agencies interested in understanding the tradeoff in price, quality, and coverage, when acquiring LiDAR equipment for the inventory of traffic signs on their transportation networks.
Analytical Comparison of Core Competencies across Civil Engineering Positions within New England Department of Transportation Agencies
Authors: Ryan Alyssa , Bouchard Chelsea , Fitzpatrick Cole , Knodler Michael , Ahmadjian Christopher
Published: January 2019

As many within the current transportation workforce approach retirement and the industry transitions into the 21st century, there are two notable challenges: 1) the incredible wealth of institutional knowledge that will be leaving the workforce, and 2) the continued increase in the application of new technologies, skills, and knowledge of the entering workforce. A resulting impact of these issues is that the gap between old and new employee competencies and skills is widening; therefore, there is a specific need and opportunity to develop new job competencies which address these changes. This research evaluates existing Department of Transportation (DOT) job specifications and job postings for civil engineers at various levels in the transportation industry within the New England region. Each job specification and posting was gathered and reviewed for specific competencies in accordance with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) core competencies and the American Association of Engineering Societies’ (AAES) competency model. Further, licensure requirements, including the Engineer-In-Training (EIT) and Professional Engineer (PE) certifications, were gathered. The quantitative analysis resulted in several notable competency gaps (or inconsistencies) between job positions across the DOTs, as well as gaps in both the BLS and AAES competency models. Additionally, the analysis of job position licensure requirements presented further significant gaps between the DOT agencies. This research provides a foundation from which to develop competencies for civil engineering positions at state DOTs and other agencies, one that is reflective of a more dynamic and sustainable transportation workforce that will excel throughout the 21st century.
Evaluation of the Impact of Asphalt Mix Segregation on Pavement Performance
Authors: Kwon Ohhoon , Choubane Bouzid , Hernando David , Allick Wayne
Published: January 2019

A full-scale experiment was conducted at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)’s accelerated pavement testing (APT) facility to evaluate the impact of segregation on hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavement performance. Localized areas of segregation were artificially generated during the construction of the APT test tracks, using improper paving techniques without any manipulation of the aggregate gradation. The subsequent APT results showed that, under similarly controlled conditions, the segregated locations exhibited significantly higher rutting than the non-segregated areas. Furthermore, supplementary field and laboratory tests indicated that the segregated locations had, in comparison, greater cracking, raveling, and tire-pavement interaction noise potentials.
Numerical investigation of the influence of a bearing/shaft structure in an axial blood pump on the potential for device thrombosis
Authors: Liu Guang-Mao , Jin Dong-Hai , Chen Hai-bo , Hou Jian-feng , Zhang Yan , Sun Han-song , Zhou Jian-Ye , Hu Sheng-shou , Gui Xing-Min
Published: January 2019

Adverse events caused by flow-induced thrombus formation around the bearing/shaft of an axial blood pump remain a serious problem for axial blood pumps. Moreover, excessive anticoagulation with thrombosis around the bearing potentially increases the risk of postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding. The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of the bearing structure on the thrombosis potential of an axial blood pump. The bearing/shaft structure was embedded into an axial blood pump numerical model. The numerical simulation and analysis are focused on the low wall shear stresses, recirculation, and residence time close to the bearing region to evaluate the potential for thrombosis around the bearing. Then, the flow field near the blood pump bearing was tested via in vitro particle image velocimetry experiments to verify the numerical results. The simulation results showed that after embedding the bearing/shaft structure a recirculation zone appeared in the outlet guide vane bearing/shaft region, the residence time increased 11-fold in comparison to the pump without the bearing/shaft structure, the scalar shear stress in the shaft surface was less than 7.8 Pa, and the stress accumulation was less than 0.10 Pa s. The numerical results showed that platelets that flow through the bearing region are exposed to significantly lower wall shear stress and a longer residence time, leading to activated platelet adhesion. The reduced stress accumulation and increased time in the bearing region lead to increased platelet activation.
Recovery of industrial valuable metals from household battery waste
Authors: Ebin Burçak , Petranikova Martina , Steenari Britt-Marie , Ekberg Christian
Published: January 2019

The modern community is dependent on electronic devices such as remote controls, alarm clocks, electric shavers, phones and computers, all of which are powered by household batteries. Alkaline, zinc–carbon (Zn-C), nickel metal hydride, lithium and lithium-ion batteries are the most common types of household energy storage technologies in the primary and secondary battery markets. Primary batteries, especially alkaline and Zn-C batteries, are the main constituents of the collected spent battery stream due to their short lifetimes. In this research, the recycling of main battery components, which are steel shells, zinc (Zn) and manganese oxides, was investigated. Household batteries were collected in Gothenburg, Sweden and mechanically pretreated by a company, Renova AB. The steel shells from spent batteries were industrially separated from the batteries themselves and the battery black mass obtained. A laboratory-scale pyrolysis method was applied to recover the Zn content via carbothermic reduction. First, the carbothermic reaction of the battery black mass was theoretically studied by HSC Chemistry 9.2 software. The effect of the amount of carbon on the Zn recovery was then examined by the designed process at 950°C. The recovery efficiency of Zn from battery black mass was over 99%, and the metal was collected as metallic Zn particles in a submicron particle size range. The pyrolysis residue was composed of mainly MnO2with some minor impurities such as iron and potassium. The suggested recycling process is a promising route not only for the effective extraction of secondary resources, but also for the utilization of recovered products in advanced technology applications.
The Full Outline of UnResponsiveness (FOUR) Score and Its Use in Outcome Prediction: A Scoping Review of the Pediatric Literature
Authors: Almojuela Alysa , Hasen Mohammed , Zeiler Frederick A.
Published: January 2019

The Full Outline of UnResponsiveness (FOUR) score is a neurologic assessment score. Its benefit over pre-existing scores is its evaluation of brainstem reflexes and respiratory pattern. Our goal was to perform a scoping systematic review of the literature on the application of the FOUR score within pediatric patients. Six databases were searched and 2 reviewers independently screened the results. The initial search yielded 1709 citations; ultimately, 6 studies composed of 571 pediatric patients were used. Four studies examined interobserver reliability of the FOUR score and found it to be good to excellent. All 6 studies demonstrated equivalency of the FOUR score and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) in predicting outcome. The existing literature suggests the FOUR score is equivalent to GCS in outcome prediction in pediatric patients; its true superiority over the GCS has not yet been established. It displays good to excellent inter-rater reliability among physicians and nurses.
Epithelial cell functionality on electroconductive Fe/Sr co-doped biphasic calcium phosphate
Authors: Basu Subhadip , Ghosh Aritri , Barui Ananya , Basu Bikramjit
Published: January 2019

In the perspective of dental restorative applications, co-doped bioceramics have not been explored much. From the clinical perspective, a successful dental implant is expected to interact with peri-prosthetic bones, gingival tissue, and surrounding connective tissues. The interaction of implant and implant coating materials with bone tissue is well studied. However, their interaction with surrounding epithelial components needs scientific validation. In this context, the present study aims at quantitative evaluation of the electrical properties of Fe/Sr co-doped biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) samples and assessment of their cytocompatibility with epithelial (vero) cells. Sr/Fe co-doped BCPs were prepared by sol-gel synthesis technique, with different dopant concentration. Impact of co-doping on conductivity was assessed and interestingly an increase in conductivity with dopant amount was recorded in different co-doped BCPs. Cellular study showed the significant ( p = 0.01) increase in both cellular viability and functionality with increasing conductivity of samples. Higher epithelial cell adhesion indicates that (Sr/Fe) co-doped BCP would be favorable for faster epithelial sealing and also would reduce the chances of infection. Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence studies indicated that the expression of the epithelial marker (E-cadherin) significantly ( p = 0.01) increased in 10, 30 and 40 mol% co-doped samples in comparison to undoped BCP. In contrast to E-cadherin, fold change of β-catenin remains unchanged amongst the co-doped ceramics, implying the absence of tumorigenic potential of (Sr/Fe) co-doped BCP. In addition, immune-fluorescence signatures for cellular polarity are established from enhanced expression PARD3 protein, which has major relevance for cellular morphogenesis and cell division. Summarizing, the present study establishes the efficacy of Sr/Fe co-doped BCPs as a dental implant coating material and its ability to modulate vero cell functionality.
A Partnership Model Approach to Understanding Challenges in Collaboration Around College Readiness
Authors: Mokher Christine G. , Jacobson Louis
Published: January 2019

This article explores challenges in starting, developing, and incorporating partnerships between the secondary and postsecondary education sectors. We use qualitative data from site visits at high schools, district offices, and state colleges across six Florida counties to identify the types of challenges educators faced in various phases of partnership around college readiness. Then we provide empirical evidence to support a conceptual framework based on a partnership model, which demonstrates that social capital and organizational capital are needed to create “partnership capital” to initiate and sustain cross-sector partnerships. We find that whereas considerable collaborative resources are available to help higher performing students prepare for selective universities, there is much less collaboration around improving college readiness among students who lack the requisite skills.
An adaptive-prediction-horizon model prediction control for path tracking in a four-wheel independent control electric vehicle
Authors: Zhang Bing , Zong Changfu , Chen Guoying , Li Guiyuan
Published: January 2019

An adaptive-prediction-horizon model prediction control-based path tracking controller for a four-wheel independent control electric vehicle is designed. Unlike traditional model prediction control with fixed prediction horizon, this paper devotes to satisfy the varied path tracking demand by adjusting online the prediction horizon of model prediction control according to its effect on vehicle dynamic characteristics. Vehicle dynamic stability quantized with the vehicle sideslip-feature phase plane is preferentially considered in the prediction horizon adjustment. For stability during switching prediction horizon and for robustness during path tracking, the numerical problem inherent in the adaptive-prediction-horizon model prediction control is analysed and solved by introducing exponentially decreasing weight. Subsequently, the desired motion for path tracking with the four-wheel independent control electric vehicle is realized with a hierarchical control structure. Simulation results finally illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine is associated with a higher risk of hypocalcemia compared to abacavir/lamivudine – results from a German cohort study
Authors: Noe S , Heldwein S , Jaeger H , Page M , Wolf E
Published: January 2019

Hyperparathyroidism has been described in people living with HIV undergoing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-containing antiretroviral therapy (ART), but differences in calcium levels have never been investigated in detail. We aimed to compare the prevalence of hypocalcemia between patients with and without TDF-containing ART. The patients and methods were a retrospective cohort study in HIV-infected adult patients receiving dolutegravir and either abacavir (ABC)/lamivudine (3TC) or TDF/emtricitabine in a single center in Munich, Germany. Of 172 patients, 126 (73.3%) were male and the median age was 48.5 years (interquartile range 42–54). Average calcium levels were 2.24 (2.21–2.29) mmol/l and 2.21 (2.16–2.26) mmol/l (P < 0.001) with a prevalence of at least one episode of total calcium <2.12 mmol/l of 16.2 and 34.4% in the groups treated with ABC/3TC and TDF/emtricitabine, respectively (P = 0.006). TDF use was independently associated with the occurrence of albumin-corrected calcium levels of <2.12 mmol/l (odds ratio: 6.7 [1.3–35.6]; P = 0.025). Hypocalcemia seems to occur more often in TDF-treated patients. Further research into hypocalcemia with TDF and potential cardiovascular effects may be of benefit based on these findings.
Two cases of multidrug-resistant genitourinary Mycoplasma genitalium infection successfully eradicated with minocycline
Authors: Glaser Allison M , Geisler William M , Ratliff Amy E , Xiao Li , Waites Ken B , Gaisa Michael
Published: January 2019

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) infection is a sexually transmitted infection that causes up to 25% of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU). MG strains carrying genetic markers of antimicrobial resistance that may affect treatment outcomes are increasingly recognized as a public health concern. We present two cases of persistent MG NGU with strains carrying both macrolide and quinolone resistance-associated mutations that were eradicated successfully by an extended course of minocycline.
The association between gender and HIV viral suppression on third-line therapy in Zambia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Andronescu Liana , Zulu Paul M , Jackson Sarah S , Hachaambwa Lottie , Claassen Cassidy W , Stafford Kristen A
Published: January 2019

Patient’s gender may impact pharmacokinetics and play a role in viral suppression. Existing literature has focused on treatment-naïve patients and produced inconclusive results, often implicating differences in adherence as the driver of gender-based outcome differences. The present analysis assessed whether viral suppression on third-line HIV treatment among a closely followed population differs by gender. A retrospective cohort study of patients on third-line HIV treatment was initiated at the HIV Advanced Treatment Centre in Lusaka, Zambia between January 2012 and December 2015. The association between gender and viral suppression was assessed using log binomial regression adjusted for core drug, number of drug mutations, and baseline viral load. Of the 80 included patients (56% female; median age: 40 years), 50 (62%) were virally suppressed at six months. After adjustment, females were less likely to be virologically suppressed at six months on third-line treatment compared to male HIV patients (relative risk 0.82, 95% confidence interval: 0.56, 1.20). Our data suggest that women were less likely to be suppressed following six months of third-line therapy compared to men; however, the difference was not statistically significant. Larger studies are needed to determine whether women are at increased risk of viral failure on third-line therapy compared to men.
Through a glass darkly: patients of the Illinois State Hospital for the Insane at Jacksonville, USA (1854–80)
Authors: Howarth Richard J , Aleguas Shirley A
Published: January 2019

The State Hospital for the Insane at Jacksonville, Morgan County, Illinois, was the first public hospital of its kind to be established in the state and among the earliest to be built on the ‘Kirkbride Plan’. It opened for patients in 1851. We describe the background to the establishment of the hospital and, so far as is possible from publicly available sources, its catchment area, the nature of the patients held there up to 1880, its mechanisms of discharge, and supposed causes of death. We end with a plea that after over 150 years, the release of hospital casebooks and similar records in digital form would be of considerable benefit to historians of psychology, scientific biographers, genealogists and demographers.
Homophobia and Homonationalism: LGBTQ Law Reform in Canada
Authors: Smith Miriam
Published: January 2019

This article explores the tensions and contradictions between the recognition of same-sex relationships and the development of legal prohibitions against discrimination on the one hand versus the ongoing symbolic and actual criminal regulation of gay sex on the other hand. I describe these tensions as they have unfolded over the last 40 years through the most recent attempts by the Liberal government of Justin Trudeau, elected in 2015, to reform the criminal law, to expunge the record of past criminal convictions for same-sex behavior, and to apologize and compensate lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) communities for past discrimination. I argue that this bifurcated pattern of public policy change and legal reform demonstrates the persistence of political homophobia alongside of homonationalist celebration of queer normativity. By considering the federal government’s long-standing failure to reform criminal laws that encapsulate formal-legal inequality of LGBTQ people, the article highlights the persistence of homophobic public policy alongside homonationalist policy discourse and genuine progress in the legal recognition of queer rights. I conclude by considering the implications of this mix for theorizing homophobia and homonationalism in law and policy.
Leading the Indian Managers to Satisfaction: The Mediating Role of Ethical Climate
Authors: Saini Damini , Sengupta Sunita Singh
Published: January 2019

The theme of this study revolves around the ethical approach of the top management and ethical climate of the organizations which directly or indirectly influence the job-related attitudinal behaviour of employees. In this article, an attempt is made to explore whether ethical leadership in Indian context impacts the ethical climate and perceived satisfaction of employees. The study also analyzes the meditating effect of ethical climate upon the relationship of ethical leadership and managerial satisfaction. This research study employed a quantitative method using a cross-sectional survey design to assess the effect of ethical leadership on the organizational ethical climate and managerial satisfaction. A non-probability, convenience sample was obtained from this population group and was based on accessibility. This study used internal consistency reliability, Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression as statistical techniques. The following research study examined the potential of ethical leadership to foster the levels of ethical climate and found that ethical leadership acts as an antecedent of ethical climate. Further, the employees led by highly ethical leaders reported highly satisfied, and moderating effect of ethical climate also found positive. Generalization of this study's results to circumstances in other countries may not be possible because the target population was employees in Indian corporations. The study is helpful in addressing the gap of empirical analysis in relation with ethical leadership, ethical climate and in managerial context in the Indian service sector corporations.
Continuous Inotrope Therapy in Hospice Care: A Case Series
Authors: Patel Krishna , D’Souza Andre , Groninger Hunter
Published: January 2019

Background:

Continuous cardiac inotropes are increasingly utilized for symptom management in advanced heart failure (AHF). Among patients who are not eligible for cardiac transplant or mechanical circulatory support, many are hospice eligible at the time of inotrope initiation. Nevertheless, given relative infrequent use as well as cost issues, acceptability and management of inotropes in the hospice setting are likely widely variable between hospice agencies.

Objective:

To describe hospice care experiences for patients with AHF receiving continuous inotrope therapies and weaning inotropes at the end of life.

Design:

Single-institution retrospective chart review of patients with AHF receiving continuous inotropes who were discharged from the hospital to hospice care between February 2015 and October 2016 and survey of hospice medical directors providing direct care of these patients.

Results:

Eighteen patients with AHF receiving continuous inotropes were discharged to 6 hospice agencies. Twelve patients were weaned from inotropes prior to death. Among cases where the inotrope was weaned, patients lived several days to more than 2 weeks. All hospice medical directors surveyed would accept patients on inotropes again. Most believed that providing continuous inotrope therapy for patients with AHF is compatible with the philosophy of hospice care.

Conclusion:

Cardiac inotropes can align with both the goals of care for the patient with AHF and the philosophy of hospice care. Patients with AHF admitted to hospice care on continuous inotropes may live days to weeks, whether or not inotropes are discontinued.
Investigating Graduate Education and Undergraduate Research Intentions of College Science Students
Authors: Deemer Eric D. , Navarro Rachel L. , Byars-Winston Angela M. , Jensen Laura E. , Chen Catherine P.
Published: January 2019

The current study examined predictors of undergraduate science students’ intentions to attend graduate school and participate in undergraduate research. We used social cognitive career theory to test our hypothesized model using a sample ( N = 411) of life science and physical science majors and examined basic interests in these disciplines as mediating variables. Among life science majors, results of structural equation modeling indicated that microbiology interest mediated the relationship between scientific self-efficacy (SSE) and graduate education intentions (GEIs) and the latter variable also mediated the relationship between microbiology interest and undergraduate research intentions (URIs). The model for physical science majors did not provide a good fit to the data, therefore path coefficients associated with this model were not interpreted. Implications for counseling interventions based on patterns of career intention formation in the life and physical sciences are discussed.
Actual Air Pollution, Environmental Transparency, and the Perception of Air Pollution in China
Authors: Peng Minggang , Zhang Hui , Evans Richard D. , Zhong Xiaohui , Yang Kun
Published: January 2019

Using data from the China Social Survey 2013 and statistics from the Ministry of Environment Protection of China and the Institute of Public & Environment Affairs, this study empirically examines the relationship between actual and perceived air pollution and the moderating effect of environmental transparency on that relationship with a multilevel ordered logistic strategy. Estimations indicate a significant congruence of actual (both particulate matter less than 10 µm in diameter and sulfur dioxide) and perceived air pollution. More importantly, environmental transparency of local government is found to moderate the relationship between actual and perceived air pollution by neutralizing the halo effects and building more alert perceptions when local air quality deteriorates. Our findings not only challenge the work of identifying a mismatch of actual–perceived air pollution in some developed countries but also suggest that, apart from abating actual air pollution, environmental transparency should be emphasized and strengthened in institutional buildings to help address pollution challenges in developing countries.