bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Left Ventricular Thrombus Formation After ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pöss Janine , Desch Steffen , Eitel Charlotte , de Waha Suzanne , Thiele Holger , Eitel Ingo
Published: September 2018

Background—

Data on left ventricular (LV) thrombus formation after primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are scarce. The aims of this study were to assess the (1) incidence of LV thrombi using cardiac magnetic resonance in a multicenter cohort of STEMI patients and (2) prognostic relevance of LV thrombi at 1-year follow-up.

Methods and Results—

In total, 738 STEMI patients reperfused by primary angioplasty were enrolled in 8 centers. Cardiac magnetic resonance was completed within 1 week after infarction. Central core laboratory-masked analyses for the presence of LV thrombi were performed. The primary clinical end point was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events within 1 year. LV thrombi were detected in 26 patients (3.5%) in the overall cohort and in 7.1% in anterior STEMI patients. The presence of thrombi was associated with larger infarcts (
P
<0.001), less myocardial salvage (
P
<0.01), impaired LV ejection fraction (
P
<0.001), and more pronounced late microvascular obstruction (
P
=0.002). The presence of thrombi was independently associated with the incidence of major adverse cardiac events at 12 months (hazard ratio, 2.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–6.73;
P
=0.03).

Conclusions—

In this multicenter cohort of patients with STEMI, thrombus prevalence assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance was 3.5% and associated with decreased myocardial salvage, larger infarcts, and more pronounced reperfusion injury. Importantly, LV thrombus was independently associated with major adverse cardiac events at 1-year follow-up.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00712101.
Combined Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging of Pre-Existing Coronary Artery Stents
Authors: Madder Ryan D. , Khan Mohsin , Husaini Mustafa , Chi Margaret , Dionne Sarah , VanOosterhout Stacie , Borgman Andrew , Collins J. Stewart , Jacoby Mark
Published: September 2018

Background—

Neoatherosclerosis is an emerging phenomenon in which lipid-rich plaques (LRPs) develop within pre-existing stents. This study was undertaken to describe near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and intravascular ultrasound findings in pre-existing stents and to compare NIRS findings in pre-existing stents, in which an increased lipid signal has been speculated to indicate neoatherosclerosis, and NIRS findings in a control group of freshly implanted stents, in which any lipid signal originates from fibroatheroma under the stent.

Methods and Results—

At the site of LRP detected by NIRS in a cohort of pre-existing stents, intravascular ultrasound was used to determine the presence of neointimal tissue. The lipid-core burden index and maximum lipid-core burden index in 4 mm were measured within stented segments. Findings were compared between pre-existing stents and a control group of freshly implanted stents. Among 60 pre-existing stents implanted 5.5±4.0 years earlier, NIRS detected LRP in 33%. At the site of LRP, intravascular ultrasound found no neointimal tissue in 35% of cases. NIRS findings in pre-existing stents were indistinguishable from those of freshly implanted stents (lipid-core burden index: 50±72 versus 42±58;
P
=0.40 and maximum lipid-core burden index in 4 mm: 156±184 versus 155±203;
P
=0.69).

Conclusions—

The detection of LRP in a pre-existing stent by NIRS alone is not reliable evidence of neoatherosclerosis, as the lipid signal may originate from fibroatheroma underlying the stent. By identifying the presence or absence of neointimal tissue at the site of LRP detected by NIRS, intravascular ultrasound may provide some insight into the potential source of the lipid signal in pre-existing stents.

Registration Information—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01694368.
Coronary Calcification and Plaque Vulnerability
Authors: Ong Daniel S. , Lee Jay S. , Soeda Tsunenari , Higuma Takumi , Minami Yoshiyasu , Wang Zhao , Lee Hang , Yokoyama Hiroaki , Yokota Takashi , Okumura Ken , Jang Ik-Kyung
Published: September 2018

Background—

Spotty superficial calcium deposits have been implicated in plaque vulnerability based on previous intravascular imaging studies. Biomechanical models suggest that microcalcifications between 5 and 65 µm in diameter can intensify fibrous cap stress, promoting plaque rupture. However, the 100- to 200-µm resolution of intravascular ultrasound limits its ability to discriminate single calcium deposits from clusters of smaller deposits, and a previous optical coherence tomographic investigation evaluated calcifications within a long segment of artery, which may not truly reflect the mechanics involved in potentiating focal plaque rupture.

Methods and Results—

Detailed optical coherence tomographic assessment of coronary calcification at the culprit plaque (10-mm length) was performed in 53 patients with acute ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction mediated by plaque rupture and 55 patients with stable angina pectoris. The number and longitudinal length of individual calcium deposits were recorded. Cross-sectional images were analyzed every 1 mm for calcium arc and depth, and these quantitative parameters were used to define individual deposits as spotty, large, and superficial. There was no significant difference between ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction mediated by plaque rupture and stable angina pectoris groups in the number of total (
P
=0.58), spotty (
P
=0.87), or large calcium deposits (
P
=0.27). Minimum calcium depth was similar between groups (
P
=0.27), as was the number of superficial deposits (
P
=0.35 using a 65-µm depth threshold and
P
=0.84 using a 100-µm depth threshold).

Conclusions—

The number and pattern of culprit plaque calcifications did not differ between patients presenting with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction mediated by plaque rupture versus stable angina pectoris. The optical coherence tomographic assessment of coronary calcification may not be a useful marker of local plaque vulnerability as previously suspected.

Registration Information—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01110538.
Left Atrial Structure and Function Across the Spectrum of Cardiovascular Risk in the Elderly
Authors: Gonçalves Alexandra , Hung Chung-Lieh , Claggett Brian , Nochioka Kotaro , Cheng Susan , Kitzman Dalane W. , Shah Amil M. , Solomon Scott D.
Published: September 2018

Background—

Although left atrial (LA) enlargement is a recognized risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes, emerging evidence supports the importance of LA function. We examined LA emptying fraction (LAEF) across the spectrum of cardiovascular disease burden in a large cohort of elderly adults living in the community.

Methods and Results—

We studied 1142 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study who were in sinus rhythm, free of valvular disease, and had acceptable quality 3-dimensional echocardiograms (mean age, 76±5 years; 59% women). We determined the cross-sectional correlates of LAEF and compared LAEF among elderly adults without cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors (n=201), those with hypertension (n=734), and those with overt heart failure (HF; n=207). In multivariable analysis, lower LAEF was associated with higher LA volumes and worse left ventricular systolic and diastolic functions. Elderly participants free of cardiovascular disease or risk factors had smaller LA volumes than those with hypertension (LA volume max/ body surface area 30.2±6.6 versus 33.0±9.0 mL/m
2
;
P
=0.001), but similar LAEF (55.2±10.3% versus 53.8±11.5%, respectively;
P
=0.357). Participants with HF had higher LA volume (39.8±13.3 mL/m
2
) and worse LAEF (47.6±14.6%) than participants with hypertension or participants free of cardiovascular disease or risk factors (all
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

In a community-based cohort, LA function was impaired in participants with prevalent HF, but there were no significant differences in LA function between participants with hypertension and those with free of cardiovascular disease or risk factors, despite greater LA size in the former.
Proton Pump Inhibitors, Platelet Reactivity, and Cardiovascular Outcomes After Drug-Eluting Stents in Clopidogrel-Treated Patients
Authors: Weisz Giora , Smilowitz Nathaniel R. , Kirtane Ajay J. , Rinaldi Michael J. , Parvataneni Rupa , Xu Ke , Stuckey Thomas D. , Maehara Akiko , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Neumann Franz-Josef , Metzger D. Christopher , Henry Timothy D. , Cox David A. , Duffy Peter L. , Brodie Bruce R. , Mazzaferri Ernest L. , Mehran Roxana , Stone Gregg W.
Published: September 2018

Background—

Certain proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) interfere with clopidogrel metabolism, potentially attenuating P2Y12 receptor inhibition. Previous observational and randomized trials report conflicting results regarding the clinical significance of this pharmacological interaction. We examined the interaction between concomitant administration of PPI and clopidogrel on platelet reactivity and clinical outcomes in the large-scale, prospective Assessment of Dual AntiPlatelet Therapy With Drug-Eluting Stents study.

Methods and Results—

On-treatment P2Y12 platelet reactivity testing was performed using the VerifyNow assay after clopidogrel loading and successful drug-eluting stent implantation at 11 sites in the United States and Germany. PPIs were prescribed at the discretion of treating physicians; patients were followed for 2 years. High platelet reactivity was defined as P2Y12 reactivity units >208. Of 8582 enrolled patients, 2697 (31.4%) were taking a PPI at the time of coronary intervention. After adjustment for differences in baseline characteristics, PPI use was independently associated with high platelet reactivity (odds ratio, 1.38: 95% confidence interval, 1.25–1.52,
P
=0.0001). A total of 2162 (25.2%) patients were prescribed a PPI at hospital discharge. In a propensity-adjusted multivariable analysis, discharge PPI use was independently associated with increased risk for postdischarge major adverse cardiac events (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or ischemia-driven target lesion revascularization) at 2-year follow-up (hazard ratio, 1.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.42,
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—

In patients treated with clopidogrel after successful drug-eluting stents implantation, the concomitant administration of PPI was associated with high platelet reactivity and a greater rate of adverse outcomes during long-term follow-up. Additional studies are warranted to determine the risk–benefit ratio of PPIs in patients with drug-eluting stents treated with clopidogrel.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00433966.
One-Year Clinical and Computed Tomography Angiographic Outcomes After Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold Implantation During Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Widimsky Petr , Petr Robert , Tousek Petr , Maly Martin , Linkova Hana , Vrana Jiri , Hajsl Martin , Budesinsky Tomas , Lisa Libor , Kocka Viktor
Published: September 2018

Background—

Bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) represent promising new technology, but data on their long-term outcomes in ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) setting are missing. The aim was to analyze 1-year clinical and computed tomographic angiographic outcomes after BVS implantation in STEMI.

Methods and Results—

PRAGUE-19 is a prospective multicenter single-arm study enrolling consecutive STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) with intention-to-implant BVS. A total of 343 STEMI patients were screened during 15 months enrollment period, and 70 patients (mean age 58.6±10.3 and 74% males) fulfilled entry criteria and BVS was successfully implanted in 96% of them. All patients were invited for clinical and computed tomographic angiographic control 1 year after BVS implantation. Restenosis was defined as ≥75% area stenosis within the scaffolded segment. Three events were potentially related to BVS: 1 in-stent restenosis (treated 7 months after pPCI with drug-eluting balloon), 1 stent thrombosis (treated 2 weeks after pPCI by balloon dilatation—this patient stopped all medications after pPCI), and 1 sudden death at home 9 months after pPCI. Four other patients had events definitely unrelated to BVS. Overall, 1-year mortality was 2.9%. Computed tomographic angiography after 1 year was performed in 59 patients. All BVS were widely patent, and binary restenosis rate was 2% (the only restenosis mentioned above). Mean in-scaffold minimal luminal area was 7.8±2.6 mm
2
, area stenosis was 20.1±16.3%, minimal luminal diameter was 3.0±0.6 mm, and diameter stenosis was 12.8±11.1%.

Conclusions—

BVS implantation in STEMI is feasible and safe and offers excellent 1-year clinical and angiographic outcomes.
Cardiac Damage Prevention by Eplerenone: Comparison With Low Sodium Diet or Potassium Loading
Authors: Martinez Diego V. , Rocha Ricardo , Matsumura Mamiko , Oestreicher Eveline , Ochoa-Maya Margarita , Roubsanthisuk Weranuj , Williams Gordon H. , Adler Gail K.
Published: September 2018

To determine the extent to which dietary sodium modulates aldosterone-induced cardiovascular damage, and to determine whether increased dietary potassium can prevent this damage, we used the
Nω
-nitro-
l
-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)/angiotensin II (Ang II) rat model of cardiac injury. This model is dependent on the presence of aldosterone for the occurrence of myocardial damage. Two sets of experiments were performed. In the first set, the following groups were studied: (1) 1% NaCl to drink (control group); (2) L-NAME/Ang II with water to drink (low salt group); (3) L-NAME/Ang II/1% NaCl (high salt group); (4) L-NAME/Ang II/1% NaCl/eplerenone (eplerenone group). Systolic blood pressure increased similarly in all groups compared with controls. Compared with the controls, the high salt group, but not the low salt or eplerenone groups, developed significant myocardial damage. In the second set of experiments three groups of animals were studied: (1) L-NAME/Ang II/1%NaCl (high salt group) (2) L-NAME/Ang II/1%NaCl/eplerenone (eplerenone group), and (3) L-NAME/Ang II/1%NaCl with an extra 1% KCl in food (high dietary potassium group). Eplerenone, but not dietary potassium supplementation, prevented the development of cardiac damage.

Thus, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist treatment and low sodium diet were effective in preventing cardiac damage, which suggests that a minimal level of aldosterone and a moderately high sodium diet are both required for the development of the cardiovascular damage in the L-NAME/Ang II model. The inability of potassium supplementation to reduce myocardial damage suggests that eplerenone’s protective effect is not due to its potassium-sparing ability, but is rather related to some other feature of its selective aldosterone antagonism.
Statins Reduce Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Growth, Rupture, and Perioperative Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Salata Konrad , Syed Muzammil , Hussain Mohamad A. , de Mestral Charles , Greco Elisa , Mamdani Muhammad , Tu Jack V. , Forbes Thomas L. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Verma Subodh , Al‐Omran Mohammed
Published: September 2018

Background

There are no recognized pharmacological treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysms (
AAA
), although statins are suggested to be beneficial. We sought to summarize the literature regarding the effects of statins on human
AAA
growth, rupture, and 30‐day mortality.

Methods and Results

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized and observational studies using the Cochrane
CENTRAL
database,
MEDLINE
, and
EMBASE
up to June 15, 2018. Review, abstraction, and quality assessment were conducted by 2 independent reviewers, and a third author resolved discrepancies. Pooled mean differences and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random effects models. Heterogeneity was quantified using the I
2
statistic, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots. Our search yielded 911 articles. One case‐control and 21 cohort studies involving 80 428 patients were included. The risk of bias was low to moderate. Statin use was associated with a mean
AAA
growth rate reduction of 0.82 mm/y (95% confidence interval 0.33, 1.32,
P
=0.001, I
2
=86%). Statins were also associated with a lower rupture risk (odds ratio 0.63, 95% confidence interval 0.51, 0.78,
P
<0.0001, I
2
=27%), and preoperative statin use was associated with a lower 30‐day mortality following elective
AAA
repair (odds ratio 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.36, 0.83,
P
=0.005, I
2
=57%).

Conclusions

Statin therapy may be associated with reduction in
AAA
progression, rupture, and lower rates of perioperative mortality following elective
AAA
repair. These data argue for widespread statin use in
AAA
patients.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
www.crd.york.ac.uk
. Unique identifier:
CRD
42017056480.
Remote Ischemic Preconditioning Acutely Improves Coronary Microcirculatory Function
Authors: Lau Jerrett K. , Roy Probal , Javadzadegan Ashkan , Moshfegh Abouzar , Fearon William F. , Ng Martin , Lowe Harry , Brieger David , Kritharides Leonard , Yong Andy S.
Published: September 2018

Background

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) attenuates myocardial damage during elective and primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Recent studies suggest that coronary microcirculatory function is an important determinant of clinical outcome. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of RIPC on markers of microcirculatory function.

Methods and Results

Patients referred for cardiac catheterization and fractional flow reserve measurement were randomized to RIPC or sham. Operators and patients were blinded to treatment allocation. Comprehensive physiological assessments were performed before and after RIPC/sham including the index of microcirculatory resistance and coronary flow reserve after intracoronary glyceryl trinitrate and during the infusion of intravenous adenosine. Thirty patients were included (87% male; mean age: 63.1±10.0 years). RIPC and sham groups were similar with respect to baseline characteristics. RIPC decreased the calculated index of microcirculatory resistance (median, before RIPC: 22.6 [interquartile range [IQR]: 17.9–25.6]; after RIPC: 17.5 [IQR: 14.5–21.3];
P
=0.007) and increased coronary flow reserve (2.6±0.9 versus 3.8±1.7,
P
=0.001). These RIPC‐mediated changes were associated with a reduction in hyperemic transit time (median: 0.33 [IQR: 0.26–0.40] versus 0.25 [IQR: 0.20–0.30];
P
=0.010). RIPC resulted in a significant decrease in the calculated index of microcirculatory resistance compared with sham (relative change with treatment [mean±SD] was −18.1±24.8% versus +6.1±37.5;
P
=0.047) and a significant increase in coronary flow reserve (+41.2% [IQR: 20.0–61.7] versus −7.8% [IQR: −19.1 to 10.3];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

The index of microcirculatory resistance and coronary flow reserve are acutely improved by remote ischemic preconditioning. This raises the possibility that RIPC confers cardioprotection during percutaneous coronary intervention as a result of an improvement in coronary microcirculatory function.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
www.anzctr.org.au/
. Unique identifier: CTRN12616000486426.
Culprit Plaque Characteristics in Patients With Sleep‐Disordered Breathing Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: An Intravascular Ultrasound Study
Authors: Wada Hideki , Dohi Tomotaka , Kasai Takatoshi , Yatsu Shoichiro , Naito Ryo , Kato Yoshiteru , Okai Iwao , Iwata Hiroshi , Isoda Kikuo , Okazaki Shinya , Miyauchi Katsumi , Daida Hiroyuki
Published: September 2018

Background

Sleep‐disordered breathing (
SDB
) is a novel cardiovascular risk factor. However, the coronary plaque characteristics of patients with
SDB
with coronary artery disease are still unclear.

Methods and Results

This study included 289 consecutive patients with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Plaque characteristics of the culprit lesion were assessed by preintervention intravascular ultrasound. The presence of
SDB
was defined as a 3% oxygen desaturation index of ≥15 events per hour measured by nocturnal pulse oximetry. Of 289 patients, the median 3% oxygen desaturation index was 9.6 (interquartile range, 5.1–16.6), and 88 patients (30.4%) were defined as having
SDB
. Compared with the no‐
SDB
group, the
SDB
group had a larger total atheroma volume of the culprit lesion (224.5 mm
3
versus 190.8 mm
3
,
P
=0.05). The median maximum attenuation and calcification angle were 140° and 130°, respectively. Attenuated plaque with a maximum attenuation angle >140° was more frequently observed in the
SDB
group compared with the no‐
SDB
group (34.9% versus 22.6%;
P
=0.03). However, there were no statistically significant differences between groups in the maximum calcium angle and the frequency of calcific plaques with a maximum calcium angle >130°. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of
SDB
was a significant predictor of a greater ultrasound attenuation angle (>140°) (odds ratio, 1.86; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–3.39;
P
=0.04).

Conclusions

SDB
was associated with larger atheroma plaque volume and a greater ultrasound attenuation, which are discriminators of plaque vulnerability. Further studies are needed to clarify the effects of
SDB
treatment on coronary plaque lesions.
Disparate Remodeling of the Extracellular Matrix and Proteoglycans in Failing Pediatric Versus Adult Hearts
Authors: Jana Sayantan , Zhang Hao , Lopaschuk Gary D. , Freed Darren H. , Sergi Consolato , Kantor Paul F. , Oudit Gavin Y. , Kassiri Zamaneh
Published: September 2018

Background

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common cause of heart failure in adult and pediatric patients, but the underlying mechanism may vary in adults and children, with few studies conducted to date. The objective of the present study was to determine whether differential remodeling of the extracellular matrix contributes to the differences between pediatric and adult DCM hearts.

Methods and Results

Explanted hearts were procured from adult (age, 46–61 years) and pediatric (age, 2–8) patients with DCM‐related heart failure and nonfailing control hearts. Fibrillar and nonfibrillar extracellular matrix (proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, glycoprotein), their regulatory enzymes (matrix metalloproteinases, disintegrin and metalloproteinases, and disintegrin and metalloproteinases with a thrombospondin domain), and their inhibitors (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases) were assessed. Pediatric DCM hearts exhibited less fibrosis compared with adult DCMs. Total glycosaminoglycans increased similarly in both DCM groups but exhibited a significantly lower affinity for transforming growth factor‐β in adult DCMs versus pediatric DCMs, resulting in increased bioavailability of transforming growth factor‐β1 and a significantly higher activity of the Smad2/3 pathway in adult DCMs. Glycosylated biglycan and versican, and cleaved thrombospondin‐1 increased in both DCMs. Protein expression of disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin domains (‐1, ‐2, ‐4, ‐7) and disintegrin and metalloproteinases (‐12, ‐15, ‐17, ‐19) were altered differently in pediatric and adult control and failing hearts. Total matrix metalloproteinase activity increased in both DCMs. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase levels were altered similarly with heart failure in both age groups, and only tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3 decreased in both DCM groups.

Conclusions

Differential remodeling of glycosaminoglycans in pediatric DCMs versus adult DCMs could underlie the enhanced activation of the transforming growth factor‐β pathway, leading to more fibrosis in adult DCM hearts. The distinct remodeling of the fibrillar and nonfibrillar extracellular matrix between pediatric and adult DCM hearts highlights a distinct pathophysiological basis for these cohorts.
Trans Riot: Transmasculine of Colour Expressions and Embodiments in the Films of Christopher Lee
Authors: Neo Chen Jian
Published: October 2018

This article focuses on transmasculine mixed-race Asian American filmmaker Christopher Lee’s documentaries and pornography of the 1990s. At a moment before today’s reduction of transgender experiences to spectacles of transitional assimilation, bio-social disorder, and death by dominant—or even authoritarian—white cis-heteropatriarchal culture, Lee’s films gave expression to the gender subversions of trans people of colour and their co-conspirators. In solidarity with Lee’s work, I produce critical creative language about racial transgender social identities. At a current moment offering more abundant critical resources and intersectional transgender movement-building, I also seek to re-harness Lee’s transmasculine imagery towards the trans of colour feminist work of transforming the white Western cis-binary gender/sex system and its perceptual structures. I view the communities represented in Lee’s filmmaking as confronting the contradictions of a post-Civil Rights neoliberal multiculturalism that promises minimal access while institutionalizing white cis-binary formations of gender/sex fundamental to the US nation-state.
Putin versus the Turnout? Mapping the Kremlin’s 2018 Presidential Election Support
Authors: Hutcheson Derek , McAllister Ian
Published: October 2018

The 2018 Russian presidential election was effectively a contest not between Vladimir Putin and the other seven candidates on the ballot paper, but between Putin and the level of election turnout. Anything less than a large majority based on a respectable level of turnout would have undermined Putin’s legitimacy to serve for a further six-year term. In the event, Putin achieved his goal. In this paper we examine the background to the election and the conduct of the campaign, and analyse the result. Putin’s success can be traced to, first, long-standing patterns of differential turnout across the regions and, second, administrative initiatives by the election authorities which created a renewed confidence in the integrity of the election process. While there is evidence that those wishing to protest against Putin spoiled their votes, the impact of this was minor.
Partnering Research, Education, and Operations via a Cool Season Severe Weather Soundings Program
Authors: Sherburn Keith D. , Parker Matthew D. , Davenport Casey E. , Sirico Richard A. , Blaes Jonathan L. , Black Brandon , McLamb Shaelyn E. , Mugrage Michael C. , Rackliffe Ryan M.
Published: October 2018

Recent research has improved our knowledge and forecasting of high-shear, low-CAPE (HSLC) severe convection, which produces a large fraction of overnight and cool season tornadoes. However, limited near-storm observations have hindered progress in our understanding of HSLC environments and detection of severe potential within them. This article provides an overview of a research project in central North Carolina aimed toward increasing the number of observations in the vicinity of severe and nonsevere HSLC convection. Particularly unique aspects of this project are a) leadership by student volunteers from a university sounding club and b) real-time communication of observations to local National Weather Service Forecast Offices. In addition to an overview of sounding operations and goals, two case examples are provided that support the potential utility of supplemental sounding observations for operational, educational, and research purposes.
NCAR’s Real-Time Convection-Allowing Ensemble Project
Authors: Schwartz Craig S. , Romine Glen S. , Sobash Ryan A. , Fossell Kathryn R. , Weisman Morris L.
Published: October 2018

Beginning 7 April 2015, scientists at the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) began producing daily, real-time, experimental, 10-member ensemble forecasts with 3-km horizontal grid spacing across the entire conterminous United States. Graphical forecast products were posted in real time to the Internet, where they attracted a large following from both forecasters and researchers across government, academia, and the private sector. Although these forecasts were initially planned to terminate after one year, the project was extended through 30 December 2017 because of the enthusiastic community response. This article details the motivation for the NCAR ensemble project and describes the project’s impacts throughout the meteorological community. Classroom and operational use of the NCAR ensemble are discussed in addition to the diverse application of NCAR ensemble output for research purposes. Furthermore, some performance statistics are provided, and the NCAR ensemble website and data visualization approach are described. We hope the NCAR ensemble’s success will motivate additional experimental forecast demonstrations that transcend current operational capabilities, as forward-looking forecast systems are needed to accelerate operational development and provide students, young scientists, and forecasters with glimpses of what future modeling systems may look like. Additionally, the NCAR ensemble dataset is publicly available and can be used for meaningful research endeavors concerning many meteorological topics.
Inferring and Removing a Spurious Response in the Optical Backscattering Signal from an Autonomous Profiling Float
Authors: Wojtasiewicz BoŻena , Walsh Ian D. , Antoine David , Slawinski Dirk , Hardman-Mountford Nick J.
Published: October 2018

Development of autonomous profiling floats, allowing for long-term continuous measurement of bio-optical variables, promises to significantly increase our knowledge of the variability of the particulate optical backscattering coefficient bbp in marine environments. However, because autonomous floats are designed for unattended data collection and only rarely are recovered for analysis of the condition of the sensors in situ, the quality-control analysis of float data streams is of paramount importance in both a particular dataset and the larger understanding of the response of sensors over the lifetime of the floats. Anomalous data from a backscattering sensor (MCOMS) mounted on autonomous profiling floats are reported here. The observed sensor behavior, which presents itself as significant differences in the values observed at the parking depth between profiles, caused by a steady increase in the signal during the profiling time, is neither common to all sensors nor can it be a function of changes in the particle population. A simple quality-control procedure that is able to detect this spurious sensor response is proposed. Further characterization of this effect will require laboratory experimentation under controlled conditions of temperature and pressure.
Peripheral Eosinophilia Found in Pediatric Enterobius vermicularis Infections
Authors: Schroeder Jonathan C. , Jones David , Maranich Ashley
Published: October 2018

Enterobius vermicularis, the common pinworm, is well known in North America as a parasitic infection, mainly affecting children. It is a very contagious organism, and it is responsible for a high number of infections in the United States each year. A rise in eosinophilia is linked to most parasitic infections. However, the correlation between eosinophilia and enterobiasis infections is not well documented in the literature. In this article, we present 3 cases involving patients seen for pediatric gastroenterology consultation with concern for inflammatory bowel disease. As part of their evaluation, each patient was found to have eosinophilia of unknown significance with an ultimate diagnosis of pinworm infections made by endoscopy. Their illness presentation did not include classic enterobiasis symptoms such as rectal pruritus or nighttime irritability. These cases support a link between eosinophilia and enterobiasis that may be instructive for pediatric providers seeing patients with eosinophilia for which there is no readily apparent underlying cause.
Effects of Display Curvature, Presbyopia, and Task Duration on Visual Fatigue, Task Performance, and User Satisfaction
Authors: Choi Donghee , Kyung Gyouhyung , Nam Kyunghyun , Park Sungryul
Published: October 2018

Objective:

This study examined the effects of display curvature, presbyopia, and task duration on visual fatigue, task performance, and user satisfaction.

Background:

Although curved displays have been applied to diverse display products, and some studies reported their benefits, it is still unknown whether the effects of display curvature are presbyopia-specific.

Method:

Each of 64 individuals (eight nonpresbyopes and eight presbyopes per display curvature) performed four 15-min proofreading tasks at one display curvature radius setting (600R, 1140R, 4000R, and flat; mm). Diverse measurements were obtained to assess visual fatigue, task performance, and user satisfaction.

Results:

The mean pupil diameter was the largest with 1140R, indicating this curvature radius was associated with the least development of visual fatigue; 600R was comparable with 1140R in terms of pupil diameter. The presbyopic group showed a 28.5% slower proofreading speed compared with the nonpresbyopic group, whereas their proofreading accuracy was comparable. For both groups, the mean visual fatigue increased significantly during the first 15 min of proofreading, as indicated by a decrease of 0.11 mm in the mean pupil diameter, an increase of 3.8 in the mean bulbar conjunctival redness, and an increase of 9.13 in the mean eye complaint questionnaire score.

Conclusion:

The effect of display curvature was not presbyopia-specific. Low visual fatigue was observed with 1140R and 600R.

Application:

Display curvature radii near or in the range of 600R and 1140R and frequent breaks are recommended for both presbyopic and nonpresbyopic groups to reduce their visual fatigue due to visual display terminal tasks.
Ski Boots Do Not Impair Standing Balance by Restricting Ankle-Joint Mobility
Authors: Noé Frédéric , García-Massó Xavier , Ledez Damien , Paillard Thierry
Published: October 2018

Objective:

This study was undertaken in order to provide new insight into sensorimotor control of posture when wearing high-shaft (HS) boots as ski boots.

Background:

Previous studies into the effects of HS boots on postural control have produced controversial results. Some studies reported postural control impairments with ski boots in bipedal postural tasks due to ankle movement restrictions without quantifying the actual restrictive effect of these boots and specifying the adaptations of the postural control system.

Method:

Eighteen young healthy subjects took part in the experiment. Bilateral postural control was assessed on stable and unstable surfaces, while standing barefoot or wearing ski boots. Center of pressure (COP) parameters, ankle, knee, and hip joints movements were calculated and EMG activity from main postural muscles was recorded.

Results:

Ski boots did not restrict the amplitude of ankle angular movements and largely impacted COP parameters and EMG activity on stable ground. In conditions of mediolateral instability, COP data illustrated an enhanced postural control in the frontal plane when wearing ski boots.

Conclusions:

Ski boots do not affect bipedal postural balance by restricting the ankle angular motions but induce complex adaptations of the postural control system which combine factors of a mechanical, motor, and sensorial nature. They impede postural control mainly when standing on stable ground without producing similar deleterious effects on unstable surfaces.

Application:

Our results show that HS boots as ski boots can improve lateral balance on unstable surfaces, which can contribute to prevent fall risk and ankle sprain.
Afterword: Writing lives, fictions, and the postcolonial
Authors: Stanley Liz
Published: October 2018

This essay reflects on the writing of lives and fictions in a South African context in light of the contents of this special issue, and draws parallels with some of the approaches adopted by the contributors. It discusses biography, autobiography, diaries, letters, and testimonies by or about Steve Biko, Nelson Mandela, Eugene Marais, Njube son of Lobengula, Cecil Rhodes, and Olive Schreiner, and problematizes some of the key terms in thinking about postcolonial literatures. In doing so, it explores interconnections between the factual and the fictive in different forms of life writing, the expanded boundaries of biographizing, performances, and transformations of the self, the use of fictions to tell truths, issues with representation and referentiality, the appeal of a return to “the facts” in some circumstances, the position of readers, and how the relationship between “then” and “now” informs writing practices. The conclusion draws on Olive Schreiner’s literary credo to propose that an alliance between writers and readers should be part of reconfiguring the biographical impulse in postcolonial literatures.
Activating Policy and Advocacy Skills: A Strategy for Tomorrow’s Special Education Leaders
Authors: Nagro Sarah A. , Shepherd Katharine G. , West Jane E. , Nagy Steven J.
Published: October 2018

Special education scholars have traditionally experienced a significant disconnect between their experience as researchers and the fast-paced realities of policy and politics. We propose that higher education leaders should be drivers of change, not recipients of outcomes, and by extension, that there is a need to ensure that the preparation of future special education faculty and leaders includes multiple opportunities for them to engage in development of competencies related to policy-making, implementation, and evaluation. This article uses an exploratory qualitative approach to describe an experiential learning model referred to as the “Short Course,” established to provide opportunities for doctoral students to experience the policy process and to develop an advocacy disposition and skills for future roles in the broad field of special education. Questionnaire data gathered over 4 years suggest the potential for this model to increase advocacy and policy engagement among future special education researchers, faculty, and leaders.
Decision Science: A New Hope
Authors: Curley Lee J. , MacLean Rory , Murray Jennifer , Laybourn Phyllis
Published: October 2018

Decision science is an area of enquiry that crosses many disciplines, from psychology to economics, each with their own perspective of decision-making. Traditionally, mathematicians have envisaged decision-making as a purely rational endeavor, whereas psychologists and behavioral economists have critiqued this narrative and suggested that cognitive short cuts are the real mechanisms behind how decisions are made. However, contemporary dual process theorists argue that two systems of the mind exist: system 1 (intuitive decision-making) and system 2 (rational decision-making). The current review will present a relatively new metaphor for decision-making: the unified threshold model. This model is a global approach to decision-making which allows both intuitive and rational decision-making processes to be explained in a more flexible manner than the dual process model. This review will introduce the reader to different types of threshold models (counter and diffusion), their assumptions, and their ability to explain decision-making behavior. Implications and future research will also be discussed. In summary, the aim of this review is to highlight that a rather than the unified threshold model of decision-making may give a more adequate explanation of decision-making data in comparison to previous models and theories.
School Punishment and Education: Racial/Ethnic Disparities With Grade Retention and the Role of Urbanicity
Authors: Peguero Anthony A. , Varela Kay S. , Marchbanks Miner P. “Trey” , Blake Jamilia , Eason John M.
Published: October 2018

There are racial/ethnic disparities associated with school punishment practices and academic progress. In addition, research suggests that urban schools have stricter school punishment practices and higher grade retention rates. What remains unknown, however, is the relationship between race/ethnicity, school punishment practices, and retention rates across urban, rural, and suburban schools. Thus, this study draws from the Texas Education Agency’s Public Education Information Management System and Critical Race Theory to investigate if there is link between school punishment practices and academic progress, as well as establishing if there are racial/ethnic disparities in urban, rural, and suburban contexts.
The Perils of Reconciliation: Achievements and Challenges of Daniel Ortega and the Modern FSLN
Authors: Cruz Feliciano Héctor
Published: October 2018

Against the background of unprecedented levels of support and popularity since recovering power, the experience of the Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional (FSLN) shows that alliances unorthodox for a leftist party have rendered electoral results at the cost of putting more profound structural transformations on hold. Ten years after its electoral comeback, the FSLN has a lot to show for itself, largely because of the stable climate attributable to its decision to make peace with its historical foes. At the same time, its efforts at empowering the citizenry have been limited at best. Entrenched in the wealth of political capital it has accumulated, it is in a good position to take calculated risks in favor of bold redistributive policies. Not taking more daring steps toward the socialist transformation of society at this juncture could in due time cost it its role as articulator of the leftist agenda in Nicaragua.

En un contexto de niveles de apoyo y popularidad sin precedentes desde la recuperación del poder, la experiencia del Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional (FSLN) muestra que alianzas heterodoxas para un partido de izquierda han dado resultados electorales a costa de detener transformaciones estructurales más profundas. Diez años después de su regreso electoral, el FSLN tiene muchos logros que mostrar, en gran parte debido al clima estable atribuible a su decisión de hacer las paces con sus enemigos históricos. Al mismo tiempo, sus esfuerzos para empoderar a la ciudadanía han sido limitados en el mejor de los casos. Afirmado en la abundancia de capital político que ha acumulado, se encuentra en una buena posición para tomar riesgos calculados a favor de políticas redistributivas audaces. No dar pasos más audaces hacia la transformación socialista de la sociedad en esta coyuntura podría, a su debido tiempo, costarle su papel como articulador de la agenda izquierdista en Nicaragua.
Political Action and Resentful Affectivity in Critical Times
Authors: Capelos Tereza , Demertzis Nicolas
Published: October 2018

How does the study of emotions help us understand engaging in or abstaining from violent and illegal political behaviors in the context of the Eurozone economic crisis? This question sits at the core of our article. We focus particularly on anger, fear, and hope hypothesizing that combined with perceptions of self-efficacy, these emotions fuse in complex affective blends of resentful or ressentiment-ful affectivity, which in turn determine the path of citizens’ political engagement. We test this using data from a three-wave cross-sectional survey from Greece, which contains measures of emotions and unique items of engagement with illegal and violent political actions. We show that such behaviors rest on complex clusters of resentful affectivity pointing to particular actions and reactions. Our theoretical and empirical framework can be useful for understanding political developments outside Greece manifested as grievances, anti-immigration demands, anti-establishment sentiment, anti-expert skepticism, and support for populist parties, extending previous theoretical and empirical work, which currently employ discrete measures of emotions.
A knowledge-based model for managing the ontology evolution: case study of maintenance in SONATRACH
Authors: Sad-Houari Nawal , Taghezout Noria , Nador Aissa
Published: October 2018

The challenges of the development of a suitable ontology scheme in decision-making environment should be taken in conjunction with the exploitation of more recent technologies. It is expected that the use of ontologies will lead to the construction of more intelligent applications, allowing them to work more specifically at a human conceptual level. We propose in this article an approach that analyses the impact of changes in the ontology on business rules in order to detect inconsistencies that may be generated. In addition, the developed tool provides solutions to repair inconsistencies with the help of domain experts. In our work, business rules are edited from the concepts and properties that are stored in an OWL (Web Ontology Language) ontology named OntoloG. This latter is implemented throughout the use of Protégé 4.0.2.with the OWL sub-language. OntoloG has been developed by the knowledge acquisition from documents, collection and capitalisation of business rules process with experts in SONATRACH AVAL.
Depression, Masculine Norm Adherence, and Fathering Behavior
Authors: Shafer Kevin , Fielding Brandon , Holmes Erin K.
Published: October 2018

While, overall, fathers have become more involved as parents, there may be significant variability in how involved fathers are in the lives of their children. This study examines how paternal depression and masculine norm adherence affect father involvement. Using new data from the Survey of Contemporary Fatherhood ( N = 2,181) and ordinary least squares regression models, we focus on the effect of depression on four measures of fathering behavior, with masculine norm adherence as a moderator. Results indicated that depression and masculinity had independent effects on father involvement. Furthermore, masculinity moderated the effect of depression for warmth, engagement, and use of harsh parenting—but not positive control. These results have important implications for how we think about the impact of depression on parenting and the role of socialized response in understanding fathering outcomes.
Glomerulonephritis in Animal Models and Human Medicine: Discovery, Pathogenesis, and Diagnostics
Authors: Cianciolo Rachel E. , Jennette J. Charles
Published: October 2018

Glomerulonephritis (GN) is inflammation of glomeruli. The four major categories that cause human GN are mediated by immunoglobulin or complement or both, and they include (1) immune complex–mediated GN, (2) anti-glomerular basement membrane–mediated GN, (3) antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody–mediated GN, and (4) complement factor 3 glomerulopathy mediated by complement dysregulation. Initiating processes include infection, autoimmunity, exogenous antigens, and neoplasia. Often there are predisposing and modulating genetic, epigenetic, and/or environmental factors. Animal models facilitated the recognition and elucidation of the pathogeneses of all four categories of GN, and they continue to be used in preclinical studies to identify and validate therapies for all four types of GN. Advanced diagnostic modalities (e.g., transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence) are helpful and sometimes required for the correct categorization of GN in humans and animals. This review provides historical background on the discovery of the different GN pathogeneses, describes some of the animal models used to discover and understand each GN pathogenic category, reviews the diagnostic classification of each category of GN, and compares human GN to spontaneous forms of nonhuman GN.