bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate‐Science Communication and the Measurement Problem
Authors: Kahan Dan M.
Published: February 2015

This article examines the science‐of‐science‐communication measurement problem. In its simplest form, the problem reflects the use of externally invalid measures of the dynamics that generate cultural conflict over risk and other policy‐relevant facts. But at a more fundamental level, the science‐of‐science‐communication measurement problem inheres in the phenomena being measured themselves. The “beliefs” individuals form about a societal risk such as climate change are not of a piece; rather they reflect the distinct clusters of inferences that individuals draw as they engage information for two distinct ends: to gain access to the collective knowledge furnished by science and to enjoy the sense of identity enabled by membership in a community defined by particular cultural commitments. The article shows how appropriately designed “science comprehension” tests—one general and one specific to climate change—can be used to measure individuals’ reasoning proficiency as collective‐knowledge acquirers independently of their reasoning proficiency as cultural‐identity protectors. Doing so reveals that there is in fact little disagreement among culturally diverse citizens on what science knows about climate change. The source of the climate‐change controversy and like disputes over societal risks is the contamination of the science‐communication environment with forms of cultural status competition that make it impossible for diverse citizens to express their reason as both collective‐knowledge acquirers and cultural‐identity protectors at the same time.
Optimizing water depth for wetland‐dependent wildlife could increase wetland restoration success, water efficiency, and water security
Authors: Nadeau Christopher P. , Conway Courtney J.
Published: February 2015

Securing water for wetland restoration efforts will be increasingly difficult as human populations demand more water and climate change alters the hydrologic cycle. Minimizing water use at a restoration site could help justify water use to competing users, thereby increasing future water security. Moreover, optimizing water depth for focal species will increase habitat quality and the probability that the restoration is successful. We developed and validated spatial habitat models to optimize water depth within wetland restoration projects along the lower Colorado River intended to benefit California black rails (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus). We observed a 358% increase in the number of black rails detected in the year after manipulating water depth to maximize the amount of predicted black rail habitat in two wetlands. The number of black rail detections in our restoration sites was similar to those at our reference site. Implementing the optimal water depth in each wetland decreased water use while simultaneously increasing habitat suitability for the focal species. Our results also provide experimental confirmation of past descriptive accounts of black rail habitat preferences and provide explicit water depth recommendations for future wetland restoration efforts for this species of conservation concern; maintain surface water depths between saturated soil and 100 mm. Efforts to optimize water depth in restored wetlands around the world would likely increase the success of wetland restorations for the focal species while simultaneously minimizing and justifying water use.
Are CEOs Replaced For Poor Performance? Effects of Takeovers and Governance on CEO Turnover
Authors: HomRoy Swarnodeep
Published: February 2015

This article analyzes the risk of CEO turnover in US firms over the period 1993–2011. There is an increase in the CEO turnover rate and a 41% decline in median tenure. Where firm performance is poor, CEOs are increasingly replaced, either by the board or in the process of the firm being taken over. US corporate governance regulations had some success in mitigating the agency problem. In the wake of those reforms, CEO turnover outcomes are more strongly associated with firm performance. The declining CEO tenure may have structural impacts on CEO pay.
Initiation of crustal shortening in the Himalaya
Authors: Larson Kyle P. , Cottle John M.
Published: February 2015

New monazite U/Th‐Pb petrochronological data from the Annapurna region of central Nepal outline a protracted thermal history spanning ~ 30 Ma from the early Eocene (c. 48 Ma) to the early Miocene (c. 18 Ma). Rare earth element data collected concomitant with the isotopic analyses are consistent with prograde metamorphism and crustal thickening between ~ 48 and 30 Ma and anatexis between ~ 28 and 18 Ma. The timing of metamorphism recorded in these rocks is consistent with records of crustal shortening derived from ultrahigh‐pressure rocks in the western Himalaya and exhumed metamorphic rocks in southern Tibet. Although previous records of early shortening/metamorphism related to the initial collision of India with Asia are spatially associated with the northern margin of the Indian plate, the ages presented in this study extend that early record south into the main Himalayan range. These new data provide important geological constraints on this early, poorly documented history.
Evidence‐Based Practice Beliefs and Implementation Before and After an Initiative to Promote Evidence‐Based Nursing in an Ambulatory Oncology Setting
Authors: Underhill Meghan , Roper Kristin , Siefert Mary Lou , Boucher Jean , Berry Donna
Published: February 2015

Background

The purpose of evidence‐based practice (EBP) in nursing is to improve patient outcomes, providing the best and most up‐to‐date care practices. In 2011, a nurse‐led committee convened to develop an institute‐wide initiative to promote EBP with oncology nurses at the Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute.

Aims

Compare and describe oncology nurse beliefs and perceived implementation of EBP and explore beliefs and implementation before and after implementing an institutional EBP initiative.

Methods

Based on the Advancing Research and Clinical practice through close Collaboration (ARCC) Model, the Evidence‐Based Practice Beliefs (EBP‐B) and Implementation (EBP‐I) scales were distributed to all Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute registered and advanced practice nurses through an online survey in 2011 (T1) and again in 2013 (T2) after the implementation of an institute‐wide nursing EBP initiative (orientation, poster presentations, education). Descriptive and correlation statistics were completed on total scores and demographics. Differences in beliefs and implementation scores based on demographics were analyzed with Mann–Whitney U tests. Open‐ended item responses at each time point (T) were summarized for EBP barriers and promoters.

Findings

Thirty‐two percent (n = 112 at T1; n = 113 at T2) of 350 nurses began the survey. A history of formal EBP education and nurse role were associated with higher EBP‐B and EBP‐I scores (p < .05). Highest level of education was significantly correlated with both EBP‐B (r = .25; p = .03) and EBP‐I (r = .32; p = .01). Narrative responses to open‐ended questions described perceived personal and environmental barriers to engaging in EBP.

Linking Evidence to Action

Although no significant differences were noted in beliefs and implementation after the EBP initiative, nurses reported valuing EBP. Respondents acknowledged a lack of full preparation in the EBP process to engage in and implement EBP consistently. Nurse role, formal EBP education, and highest level of education were associated with perceptions of EBP beliefs and implementation. Nurses should be provided the mentorship and support to obtain continuing education about how to engage in EBP and about implementing EBP change.
Friction and Wear Behavior of Fe–Cr–B Alloys in Liquid Paraffin Oil
Authors: Wei Jin , Cui Gongjun
Published: February 2015

The tribological properties of Fe–Cr–B alloys were studied sliding against SiC ball in liquid paraffin oil. The boron played an important role in improving tribological properties of alloys. The friction coefficients of alloys decreased with the increase of normal load and sliding speed. The Fe–Cr–B alloys showed better wear resistance than that of Fe–Cr alloy. Fe-21 wt.% Cr-7 wt.% B alloy had the best tribological properties. The wear mechanism of Fe–Cr alloy was abrasive wear and plastic deformation. The wear mechanism of Fe–Cr–B alloys was microploughing and fatigue flaking pits.
An Investigation on Transition Between Mild and Severe Wear in Mg–5Al–0.8Zn Magnesium Alloy Using Recrystallization Kinetics Modeling
Authors: Liang C. , Su T. F. , Wang Y. B. , Han X. , Yin M. L. , An J.
Published: February 2015

Wear behavior of Mg–5Al–0.8Zn alloy was studied using a pin-on-disk type wear apparatus within a load range of 20–380 N and a sliding speed range of 0.1–4.0 m/s. Analyzes on morphology and chemical composition of worn surfaces were undertaken using scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) for determination type of wear mechanism. Investigations on microstructure, plastic strain, and hardness in subsurfaces were carried out using optical microscope and hardness tester for understanding changes in the microstructure and hardness before and after mild to severe wear transition. The subsurface microstructure beneath the worn surface was subjected to a large plastic strain, and experienced strain hardening, dynamic recrystallization (DRX), and melting successively with increasing load or sliding speed. The transition between mild and severe wear was controlled by microstructure transformation from a strain-hardened into a thermal soften DRX microstructure in subsurface. A contact surface DRX temperature criterion is proposed for prediction of transition between mild and severe wear in Mg–5Al–0.8Zn alloy. The mild to severe wear transition loads were predicted under various sliding speeds using DRX kinetics. The validity of the proposed method for prediction of transition between mild and severe wear is also verified in AZ31 and AZ61 alloys.
Optimization of Pin-Fins for a Heat Exchanger by Entropy Generation Minimization and Constructal Law
Authors: Xie Gongnan , Song Yidan , Asadi Masoud , Lorenzini Giulio
Published: February 2015

Pin-fins are considered as one of the best elements for heat transfer enhancement in heat exchangers. In this study, the topology of pin-fins (length, diameter, and shape) is optimized based on the entropy generation minimization (EGM) theory coupled with the constructal law (CL). Such pin-fins are employed in a heat exchanger in a sensible thermal energy storage (TES) system so as to enhance the rate of heat transfer. First, the EGM method is used to obtain the optimal length of pin-fins, and then the CL is applied to get the optimal diameter and shape of pin-fins. Reliable computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of various constructal pin-fin models are performed, and detailed flow and heat transfer characteristics are presented. The results show that by using the proposed system with optimized pin-fin heat exchanger the stored thermal energy can be increased by 10.2%.
Constructal Law Applications to Efficient Design: Electrokinetics Systems and Enclosures for Heat Transfer
Authors: Lorente Sylvie
Published: February 2015

This review paper documents two classes of problem to which the constructal law of design is applied. The first part of the paper is about the transport of ionic species through a porous medium by means of electrokinetics. The ionic transfer is maximized in time and in space following the principles set by the constructal law. The second part is dedicated to the search of the geometry of vertical enclosures in order to enhance the heat transfer; more complex is the discovery of the best configuration for maximum heat transfer resistance and mechanical strength through the optimal allocation of the vertical enclosures.
Multiscale Finite Element Modeling of Alumina Ceramics Undergoing Laser-Assisted Machining
Authors: Dong Xiangyang , Shin Yung C.
Published: February 2015

Alumina ceramics, due to their excellent properties of high hardness, corrosion resistance, and low thermal expansion coefficient, are important industrial materials with a wide range of applications, but these materials also present difficulty in machining with low material removal rates and high tool wear. This study is concerned with laser-assisted machining (LAM) of high weight percentage of alumina ceramics to improve the machinability by a single point cutting tool while reducing the cutting forces. A multiscale model is developed for simulating the machining of alumina ceramics. In the polycrystalline form, the properties of alumina ceramics are strongly related to the glass interface existing in their microstructure, particularly at high temperatures. The interface is characterized by a cohesive zone model (CZM) with the traction–separation law while the alumina grains are modeled as continuum elements with isotropic properties separated by the interface. Bulk deformation and brittle failure are considered for the alumina grains. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are carried out to obtain the atomistic structures and parameterize traction–separation laws for the interfaces of different compositions of alumina ceramics at high temperatures. The generated parameterized traction–separation laws are then incorporated into a finite element model in Abaqus to simulate the intergranular cracks. For validation purposes, simulated results of the multiscale approach are compared with the experimental measurements of the cutting forces. The model is successful in predicting cutting forces with respect to the different weight percentage and composition of alumina ceramics at high temperatures in LAM processes.
Optimization of Gallium Nitride Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition Process
Authors: George Pradeep , Meng Jiandong , Jaluria Yogesh
Published: February 2015

This paper investigates the simulation, response surface modeling, and optimization of the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) process for the deposition of gallium nitride (GaN). Trimethylgallium (TMGa) and ammonia (NH3) are the precursors carried by hydrogen into the rotating-disk reactor. The deposition rate of GaN film and its uniformity form the focus of this study. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model simulates the deposition of the GaN film. CFD model is employed to identify two design variables, inlet velocity and inlet precursor concentration ratio, which significantly affect the deposition rate and uniformity of GaN film. Compromise response surface method (CRSM) is used to generate response surfaces for average deposition rate and uniformity. These response surfaces are used to generate the Pareto front for the conflicting objectives of optimal rate of average deposition and uniformity. Pareto front captures the trade-off between deposition rate and uniformity of the GaN film. It is observed that for the whole range of design variables, there are numerous options to get stable uniformity levels than deposition rate. The optimal inlet velocity and precursor concentration for different objective functions considered tend to be near the upper bounds.
Evaluation of the Accuracy of Selected Syngas Chemical Mechanisms
Authors: Alzahrani Fahad M. , Sanusi Yinka S. , Vogiatzaki Konstantina , Ghoniem Ahmed F. , Habib Mohamed A. , Mokheimer Esmail M. A.
Published: February 2015

The implementation of reduced syngas combustion mechanisms in numerical combustion studies has become inevitable in order to reduce the computational cost without compromising the predictions' accuracy. In this regard, the present study evaluates the predictive capabilities of selected detailed, reduced, and global syngas chemical mechanisms by comparing the numerical results with experimental laminar flame speed (LFS) values of lean premixed (LPM) syngas flames. The comparisons are carried out at varying equivalence ratios, syngas compositions, operating pressures, and preheat temperatures to represent a range of operating conditions of modern fuel flexible combustion systems. NOx emissions predicted by the detailed mechanism, GRI-Mech. 3.0, are also used to study the accuracy of the selected mechanisms under these operating conditions. Moreover, the selected mechanisms' accuracy in predicting the laminar flame thickness (LFT), species concentrations of the reactants, and OH profiles at different equivalence ratios and syngas compositions are investigated as well. The LFS is generally observed to increase with increasing equivalence ratio, hydrogen content in the syngas, and preheat temperature, while it is decreased with increasing operating pressure. This trend is followed by all mechanisms understudy. The global mechanisms of Watanabe–Otaka and Jones–Lindstedt for syngas are consistently observed to over-predict and under-predict the LFS up to an average of 60% and 80%, respectively. The reduced mechanism of Slavinskaya has an average error of less than 20%, which is comparable to the average error of the GRI-Mech. 3.0. It however over-predicts the flame thickness by up to 30% when compared to GRI-Mech. 3.0. The NO prediction by Li mechanism and the reduced mechanisms are observed to be within 10% prediction range of the GRI-Mech. 3.0 at intermediate equivalence ratio (φ=0.74) up to stoichiometry. Moving toward more lean conditions, there is significant difference between the GRI-Mech. 3.0 NO prediction and those of the reduced mechanisms due to relative importance of the prompt NOx at lower temperature compared to thermal NOx that is only accounted for by the GRI-Mech. 3.0.
Development of a Solar Receiver Based on Compact Heat Exchanger Technology for Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Cycles
Authors: Besarati Saeb M. , Yogi Goswami D. , Stefanakos Elias K.
Published: February 2015

Supercritical carbon dioxide (s-CO2) can be used both as a heat transfer and working fluid in solar power tower plants. The main concern in the design of a direct s-CO2 receiver is the high operating pressures, i.e., close to 20 MPa. At such high pressures, conventional receivers do not exhibit the necessary mechanical strength or thermal performance. In this paper, a receiver based on compact heat exchanger technology is developed. The receiver consists of a group of plates with square-shaped channels which are diffusion bonded together to tolerate the high operating pressure. A computational model is developed and validated against data in the literature. Inconel 625 is used as the base material because of its superior resistance against corrosion in the presence of s-CO2. The receiver heats s-CO2 with mass flow rate of 1 kg/s from 530 °C to 700 °C under a solar flux density of 500 kW/m2. The influence of different parameters on the performance of the receiver is evaluated by a parametric analysis. Subsequently, a multi-objective optimization is performed to determine the optimal geometry of the heat exchanger considering the tradeoff between objective functions, such as unit thermal resistance and pressure drop. The design variables are hydraulic diameter, number of layers, and distance between the channels. The mechanical strength of the system is the constraint to the problem, which is evaluated using an ASME code for the pressure vessels. Finally, the temperature profiles inside the channels and the surface of the receiver are presented. It is shown that the fluid reaches the desired temperature while the maximum temperature of the surface remains well below the material limit.
Determining the Cost Benefit of High-Temperature Coatings for Concentrating Solar Power Thermal Storage Using Probabilistic Cost Analysis
Authors: Glatzmaier Greg C. , Gomez Judith C.
Published: February 2015

Probabilistic cost analysis determined the cost benefit for applying a protective coating to the wetted surfaces of stainless steel tank walls for concentrating solar power (CSP) thermal storage applications. The model estimated the total material cost of coated 347 or 310 stainless steel (347/310) and the cost of uncoated Inconel 625, which served as the reference tank wall cost. Model results showed that the cost of the coated 347/310 stainless steel was always statistically less than the cost of the bare Inconel 625 when these materials are used for tank walls at representative tank diameters and temperatures for CSP storage applications.
Constructal Design Associated to Genetic Algorithm of Asymmetric V-Shaped Pathways
Authors: Estrada Emanuel da S. D. , Fagundes Tadeu M. , Isoldi Liércio A. , dos Santos Elizaldo D. , Xie Gongnan , Rocha Luiz A. O.
Published: February 2015

This work relies on constructal design to perform the geometric optimization of the V-shaped pathways of highly conductive materials (inserts) that remove a constant heat generation rate from a body and deliver it to isothermal heat sinks. It is shown numerically that the global thermal resistance of the V-shaped pathway can be minimized by geometric optimization subject to total volume and V-shaped pathways material constraints. Constructal design and genetic algorithm (GA) optimization showed the emergence of an optimal architecture that minimizes the global thermal resistance: an optimal external shape for the assembly of pathways and optimal geometry features for the V-shaped pathway. Parametric study was performed to show the behavior of the minimized global thermal resistance as function of the volume fraction of the V-shaped pathways. First achieved results for ϕ = 0.3 indicated that when freedom is given to the geometry, the thermal performance is improved. Afterward, the employment of GA with constructal design allowed the achievement of the optimal shapes of V-shaped pathways for different volume fractions (0.2 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.4). It was not realized the occurrence of one universal optimal shape for the several values of ϕ investigated, i.e., the optimal design was dependent on the degrees of freedom and the parameter ϕ and it is reached according to constructal principle of optimal distribution of imperfections.
Electrochemical Characterization of a High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Using Doped-Poly Benzimidazole as Solid Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Grigoriev S. A. , Kuleshov N. V. , Grigoriev A. S. , Millet P.
Published: February 2015

A high-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell using H3PO4-doped poly benzimidazole (PBI) as solid polymer electrolyte has been developed and tested. The influences of operating temperature (between 130 and 170 °C), operating pressure (between 0 and 2 bar), and air flow rate on the performances of the fuel cell have been measured. A maximum power density of ca. 200 mW/cm2 has been measured. The existence of an optimum air flow rate (expressed in oxygen stoichiometric ratio) has been put into evidence. It allows an increase of the fuel cell voltage from 250 mV up to ca. 400 mV at 0.4 A/cm2.
Time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry surface and in-depth study of degradation of nanosheet poly(l-lactic acid) films
Authors: Marchany Michelle D. , Gardella Joseph A. , Kuchera Timothy J.
Published: February 2015

With the advent of novel fabrication technologies, free-standing poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanosheets have been shown to have enhanced performance over their micro- or macroscale equivalents as tissue engineering and drug delivery constructs. In the present research, the authors investigated the surface degradation behavior of PLLA films as a function of confinement to a quasi-two-dimensional structure, and the degradation behavior of nanoscale PLLA films as a function of the initial molecular weight and depth, using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. The authors found that nanofilms exhibit less segregation of shorter chains to the surface than microfilms, due to the constrained geometries of these morphologies. It was also concluded that the degradation rate at the surface of nanofilms related to the inverse of the initial molecular weight, as is the case in bulk-scale systems.
Oxide structure-dependent interfacial layer defects of HfAlO/SiO2/Si stack analyzed by conductance method
Authors: Ding Yi Ming , Misra Durgamadhab
Published: February 2015

This work investigates the interface properties in a metal oxide semiconductor capacitor device with a 3 nm HfAlO/0.5 nm SiO2/Si stacks prepared by various processing conditions. Different Al doping, different postannealing temperatures, and different deposition steps and stacks were considered. Equivalent oxide thickness and flat band voltage (VFB) were obtained from capacitance–voltage measurements. After the measurement, a simple approach was used to correct the error introduced by the series resistance Rs associated with the substrate and contact while carefully monitoring the impact of the tunneling current. The interface state density (Dit) was calculated by the conductance method, and it was observed that the Dit is dependent on the structure of hafnium aluminum oxide film. The amorphous structure has the lowest Dit (2.76×1011 eV−1cm−2) whereas tetragonal HfO2 has the highest Dit (1.27×1012 eV−1cm−2). The Dit values of other structures are within the range of observed highest and lowest values.
Feasibility of a Self-Determination Theory-Based Exercise Program in Community-Dwelling South Korean Older Adults: Experiences from a 13-Month Trial
Authors: Lee Minyoung , Kim Min Joo , Suh Dongwon , Kim Jungjin , Jo Eunkyoung , Yoon BumChul
Published: February 2015

Little is known about the effectiveness of self-determination theory (SDT), a representative motivational theory, on exercise domain in older adults. This feasibility study used quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluate the effectiveness of a 13-month group exercise program applying SDT-based motivational strategies on exercise adherence, physical fitness, and quality of life, and to explore factors affecting exercise adherence in South Korean older adults (N = 18). Exercise attendance rate was high (82.52%). There were significant differences in aerobic endurance (p < .001), lower body strength (p < .05), dynamic balance (p < .001), and perceived social functioning (p < .05) at 13 months compared with baseline. Factors affecting exercise adherence were related to the SDT-based motivational strategies. These results support the importance of health professionals applying SDT-based motivational strategies to exercise programs to help facilitate motivation for participation and to promote physical fitness and quality of life in older adults.
Improvement of sudden bilateral hearing loss after vertebral artery stenting
Authors: Kim Ji Hwa , Roh Kyung Jin , Suh Sang Hyun , Lee Kyung-Yul
Published: February 2015

Bilateral deafness is a rare but possible symptom of vertebrobasilar ischemia. We report a case of sudden bilateral sensorineural hearing loss caused by bilateral vertebral artery (VA) occlusion which dramatically improved after stenting. A 54-year-old man was admitted with sudden onset of bilateral deafness, vertigo, and drowsy mental status. Brain diffusion-weighted MRI showed acute infarction involving both the posterior inferior cerebellar artery and left posterior cerebral artery territory. Cerebral angiography showed bilateral distal VA occlusion, and emergency intracranial stenting was performed in the left VA. After reperfusion therapy his symptoms gradually improved, including hearing impairment. Endovascular stenting may be helpful in a patient with sudden deafness caused by bilateral VA occlusion.
Enterobacter cloacaepericardial effusion in a frail elderly patient
Authors: Blundell H J , Mason C A
Published: February 2015

We report a case of a frail 82-year-old man with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis and a recent pacemaker insertion, admitted with pulmonary oedema and a symptomatic pericardial effusion. He was treated with diuretics and an urgent pericardiocentesis, a sample from which culturedEnterobacter cloacae. A subsequent abdominal CT scan revealed faecal loading, an abnormal anorectal canal and sigmoid colon and a bowel perforation. Endoscopy, biopsies and histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis with coexistent fungal infection. TheE. cloacaeinfection was successfully treated with 6 weeks of intravenous meropenem, while the CMV and fungal infections were treated with a combination of valganciclovir and fluconazole. We postulate that the bowel perforation resulted from a combination of CMV colitis, faecal loading and steroid therapy and led to bacterial translocation ofE. cloacaeand the development of the pericardial effusion. This case represents an unusual pathophysiology for the development of anE. cloacaepericardial effusion.
Regulation of
Csf1r
and
Bcl6
in Macrophages Mediates the Stage-Specific Effects of MicroRNA-155 on Atherosclerosis
Authors: Wei Yuanyuan , Zhu Mengyu , Corbalán-Campos Judit , Heyll Kathrin , Weber Christian , Schober Andreas
Published: February 2015

Objective—

The function of microRNAs is highly context and cell type dependent because of their highly dynamic expression pattern and the regulation of multiple mRNA targets. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) plays an important role in the innate immune response by regulating macrophage function; however, the effects of miR-155 in macrophages on atherosclerosis are controversial. We hypothesized that the stage-dependent target selection of miR-155 in macrophages determines its effects on atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

The expression of miR-155 increased in lesional macrophages of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice between 12 and 24 weeks of a high-cholesterol diet.
Mir155
knockout in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice enhanced lesion formation, increased the lesional macrophage content, and promoted macrophage proliferation after 12 weeks of the high-cholesterol diet. In vitro, miR-155 inhibited macrophage proliferation by suppressing colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor, which was upregulated in lesional macrophages of
Mir155

–/–

apolipoprotein E–deficient mice. By contrast,
Mir155
deficiency reduced necrotic core formation and the deposition of apoptotic cell debris, thereby preventing the progression of atherosclerosis between 12 and 24 weeks of the high-cholesterol diet. miR-155 inhibited efferocytosis in vitro by targeting B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 6 and thus activating RhoA (ras homolog gene family, member A). Accordingly, B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 6 was upregulated in lesional macrophages of
Mir155

–/–

apolipoprotein E–deficient mice after 24 weeks, but not after 12 weeks of the high-cholesterol diet.

Conclusions—

Our findings demonstrate a stage-specific role of miR-155 in lesion formation. miR-155 suppressed macrophage proliferation by targeting colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor in early and impaired efferocytosis by downregulating B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 6 in advanced atherosclerosis. Therefore, targeting the interaction between miR-155 and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 6 may be a promising approach to inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis.
Increased Systemic and Plaque Inflammation in
ABCA1
Mutation Carriers With Attenuation by Statins
Authors: Bochem Andrea E. , van der Valk Fleur M. , Tolani Sonia , Stroes Erik S. , Westerterp Marit , Tall Alan R.
Published: February 2015

Objective—

We previously demonstrated that subjects with functional
ATP-binding cassette
(
ABC
)
A1
mutations have increased atherosclerosis, which has been attributed to the role of ABCA1 in reverse cholesterol transport. More recently, a proinflammatory effect of
Abca1
deficiency was shown in mice, potentially contributing to atherogenesis. In this study, we investigated whether ABCA1 deficiency was associated with proinflammatory changes in humans.

Approach and Results—

Thirty-one heterozygous, 5 homozygous
ABCA1
mutation carriers, and 21 matched controls were studied.
18
Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with computed tomographic scanning was performed in a subset of carriers and controls to assess arterial wall inflammation (target:background ratio). Heterozygous
ABCA1
mutation carriers had a 20% higher target:background ratio than in controls (target:background ratio;
P
=0.008). In carriers using statins (n=7), target:background ratio was 21% reduced than in nonstatin users (n=7;
P
=0.03). We then measured plasma cytokine levels. Tumor necrosis factor α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and interleukin-6 levels were increased in heterozygous and homozygous
ABCA1
mutation carriers. We isolated monocytes from carriers and controls and measured inflammatory gene expression. Only
TNFα
mRNA was increased in monocytes from heterozygous
ABCA1
mutation carriers. Additional studies in THP-1 macrophages showed that both
ABCA1
deficiency and lipoprotein-deficient plasma from
ABCA1
mutation carriers increased inflammatory gene expression.

Conclusions—

Our data suggest a proinflammatory state in
ABCA1
mutation carriers as reflected by an increased positron emission tomography–MRI signal in nonstatin using subjects, and increased circulating cytokines. The increased inflammation in
ABCA1
mutation carriers seems to be attenuated by statins.
Meta-Analysis of Cell-based CaRdiac stUdiEs (ACCRUE) in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Based on Individual Patient Data
Authors: Gyöngyösi Mariann , Wojakowski Wojciech , Lemarchand Patricia , Lunde Ketil , Tendera Michal , Bartunek Jozef , Marban Eduardo , Assmus Birgit , Henry Timothy D. , Traverse Jay H. , Moyé Lemuel A. , Sürder Daniel , Corti Roberto , Huikuri Heikki , Miettinen Johanna , Wöhrle Jochen , Obradovic Slobodan , Roncalli Jérome , Malliaras Konstantinos , Pokushalov Evgeny , Romanov Alexander , Kastrup Jens , Bergmann Martin W. , Atsma Douwe E. , Diederichsen Axel , Edes Istvan , Benedek Imre , Benedek Theodora , Pejkov Hristo , Nyolczas Noemi , Pavo Noemi , Bergler-Klein Jutta , Pavo Imre J. , Sylven Christer , Berti Sergio , Navarese Eliano P. , Maurer Gerald
Published: February 2015

Rationale
:

The meta-Analysis of Cell-based CaRdiac study is the first prospectively declared collaborative multinational database, including individual data of patients with ischemic heart disease treated with cell therapy.

Objective
:

We analyzed the safety and efficacy of intracoronary cell therapy after acute myocardial infarction (AMI), including individual patient data from 12 randomized trials (ASTAMI, Aalst, BOOST, BONAMI, CADUCEUS, FINCELL, REGENT, REPAIR-AMI, SCAMI, SWISS-AMI, TIME, LATE-TIME; n=1252).

Methods and Results
:

The primary end point was freedom from combined major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (including all-cause death, AMI recurrance, stroke, and target vessel revascularization). The secondary end point was freedom from hard clinical end points (death, AMI recurrence, or stroke), assessed with random-effects meta-analyses and Cox regressions for interactions. Secondary efficacy end points included changes in end-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, and ejection fraction, analyzed with random-effects meta-analyses and ANCOVA. We reported weighted mean differences between cell therapy and control groups. No effect of cell therapy on major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (14.0% versus 16.3%; hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.63–1.18) or death (1.4% versus 2.1%) or death/AMI recurrence/stroke (2.9% versus 4.7%) was identified in comparison with controls. No changes in ejection fraction (mean difference: 0.96%; 95% confidence interval, −0.2 to 2.1), end-diastolic volume, or systolic volume were observed compared with controls. These results were not influenced by anterior AMI location, reduced baseline ejection fraction, or the use of MRI for assessing left ventricular parameters.

Conclusions
:

This meta-analysis of individual patient data from randomized trials in patients with recent AMI revealed that intracoronary cell therapy provided no benefit, in terms of clinical events or changes in left ventricular function.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01098591.
Rates of Ischemic Stroke During Warfarin Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Tung Jennifer M. , Mamdani Muhammad M. , Juurlink David N. , Paterson J. Michael , Kapral Moira K. , Gomes Tara
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose—

Recent evidence suggests that there may be an increased risk of ischemic stroke immediately after warfarin initiation. We examined the rate of ischemic stroke among patients with atrial fibrillation newly started on warfarin therapy.

Methods—

We conducted a population-based cohort study among Ontario residents aged ≥66 years with atrial fibrillation who received warfarin between April 1, 1997, and March 31, 2010. Each patient was followed up for ≤5 years in 30-day intervals. For each interval, we determined the rate of ischemic stroke.

Results—

After 5 years, the cumulative incidence of ischemic stroke among new users of warfarin (n=148 446) was 4.0% (n=6006). The risk was highest during the first 30 days after initiation (6.0% per person-year; 95% confidence interval, 5.5%–6.4%) compared with the remainder of follow-up (1.6% per person-year; 95% confidence interval, 1.5%–1.6%), and increased with higher baseline CHADS2 (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes, previous stroke) scores. Less frequent monitoring may have contributed.

Conclusions—

In a large cohort of older patients with atrial fibrillation, we observed the highest rate of ischemic stroke in the first 30 days after warfarin initiation. Although causation cannot be established given the observational nature of this study, our findings highlight the need for future research in this population.
Occult Anterograde Flow Is an Under-Recognized but Crucial Predictor of Early Recanalization With Intravenous Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator
Authors: Ahn Seong Hwan , d’Esterre Christopher D. , Qazi Emmad M. , Najm Mohammed , Rubiera Marta , Fainardi Enrico , Hill Michael D. , Goyal Mayank , Demchuk Andrew M. , Lee Ting Y. , Menon Bijoy K.
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose—

Thrombolysis depends on the ability of blood and thrombolytic agents to permeate thrombus. We devised a novel technique to quantify blood permeating through thrombi and determine whether this parameter predicts early recanalization with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator.

Methods—

Intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator–treated patients with stroke and complete occlusion on computed tomographic angiography were analyzed using perfusion computed tomography and a delay insensitive algorithm. We generated maps that measure delay in arrival time of contrast within the intracranial arterial tree (T0 maps). A positive sloped regression line of T0 values measured along artery silhouette distal to thrombus was defined as marker of permeable thrombus (occult anterograde flow). Median T0 values at proximal and distal thrombus interface were measured. Early recanalization was assessed on first angiography of subsequent intra-arterial procedure or on a 4-hour computed tomographic angiography.

Results—

Of 66 patients, occult anterograde flow was detected in 17 (25.8%). Early recanalization was more in patients with occult anterograde flow versus not (66.7 versus 29.7%;
P
=0.031). Median T0 value (in s) at distal thrombus interface (1.5 versus 3.8;
P
=0.006) and difference in median T0 value between proximal and distal thrombus interface (1.3 versus 3.7;
P
=0.014) were less in early recanalizers versus in nonrecanalizers. In multivariable analysis, patients with occult anterograde flow and T0 value difference between proximal and distal thrombus interface ≤2 s recanalized most (71.4%; odds ratio, 12.15; 95% confidence interval, 2.05–71.91), whereas patients with retrograde flow and T0 value difference >2 s recanalized least (25.9%; odds ratio, 1).

Conclusions—

Occult anterograde flow through thrombus can be assessed by perfusion computed tomography T0 maps and predicts early recanalization with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator robustly.
A Parameterised Complexity Analysis of Bi-level Optimisation with Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Corus Dogan , Lehre Per Kristian , Neumann Frank , Pourhassan Mojgan
Published: February 2015

Bi-level optimisation problems have gained increasing interest in the field of combinatorial optimisation in recent years. In this paper, we analyse the runtime of some evolutionary algorithms for bi-level optimisation problems. We examine two NP-hard problems, the generalised minimum spanning tree problem and the generalised travelling salesperson problem in the context of parameterised complexity. For the generalised minimum spanning tree problem, we analyse the two approaches presented by Hu and Raidl ( 2012 ) with respect to the number of clusters that distinguish each other by the chosen representation of possible solutions. Our results show that a (1+1) evolutionary algorithm working with the spanning nodes representation is not a fixed-parameter evolutionary algorithm for the problem, whereas the problem can be solved in fixed-parameter time with the global structure representation. We present hard instances for each approach and show that the two approaches are highly complementary by proving that they solve each other’s hard instances very efficiently. For the generalised travelling salesperson problem, we analyse the problem with respect to the number of clusters in the problem instance. Our results show that a (1+1) evolutionary algorithm working with the global structure representation is a fixed-parameter evolutionary algorithm for the problem.
Copyright and the Digital Economy Act
Authors: Karwowska Anna
Published: February 2015

Copyright law has undergone significant expansion in order to tackle some of the problems posed by the ease of infringement on the Internet, as can be seen in the Digital Economy Act introduced in the United Kingdom. There must, however, be fundamental changes to the way we think about and enforce artists and authors’ rights if copyright is to make sense and be effective in the developing digital environment. This article gives a comparative view on the issue, taking account of the economic impact of online file-sharing and its cultural implications.
Comparing the Law and Governance of Assisted Dying in Four European Nations
Authors: McCann Adam
Published: February 2015

This article provides a comparative law and governance insight to assisted dying in England, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands, bringing together empirical studies of regulation and normative thinking about the role of the state. It follows the ‘new governance’ scholarly effort to challenge the conventional wisdom that regulation, especially in regard to controversial and sensitive public policy issues, must be determined by top-down, command and control rules. The question here is a straightforward, but fundamental one: to what extent do, and should, private actors contribute to the creation, application and enforcement of the law on assisted dying? Critical attention is paid to the differences that exist in the aforementioned nations and how they matter from a broader governance and policy-oriented perspective.
Reshaping Phonetics
Authors: Zhu Xiaonong
Published: February 2015

This paper proposes that the fundamental categories in phonetics are not “segment” and “suprasegmental”, but rather “segment” and “phonation”, which result from the articulatory activities in the vocal tract and the phonatory activities at the glottis respectively. The “phonatory activities” consist of four sub-categories: phonationals (phonation modes), sub-phonationals (sub-phonation modes), supra-phonationals and quasi-phonationals. There are six types and twelve sub-types of phonation modes in linguistic phonetics, which can be used to define three tonal registers in syllabics (syllable-based phonology). Under such an analysis, pitch and length are not suprasegmentals, but rather supra-phonationals. The so-called quasi-phonationals refer to two kinds of laryngeal activities, implosive and ejective, which are classified as “non-pulmonic” consonants in traditional phonetics. This new “vocal tract – laryngeal” dichotomy system not only covers the former “segment and suprasegmental” system, but can serve to categorize the world’s languages and to illuminate the transition from polysyllabic accentual languages to monosyllabic tonal languages. Finally, a hypothesis that breathy voice results from humid climates is put forward.
Analysis of the approximation of voiced initials in Yiyang Dialect: With remarks on an unusual devoicing pathway of MC voiced initials among Chinese dialects
Authors: Peng Jianguo
Published: February 2015

The pronunciation of Middle Chinese voiced initials as l- is a characteristic of Yiyang dialect. The circumstances of the change are classified into three types: Cong (從), Xie (邪), Cheng (澄), Chong (崇), Chuan (船) and Chan (禪) followed the pathway dz- > z- > ɹ- > l-, Ding (定) followed the pathway d- > l-, and Ri (日) became pronounced as l- due to the influence of literary readings. The sound change of voiced affricates weakening to voiced fricatives, voiced fricatives changing to approximants and then to the lateral approximant, and voiced stops changing to the lateral approximant are unusual devoicing developments among Chinese dialects
The Uvular Sounds of Sino-Tibetan
Authors: Liu Zemin
Published: February 2015

Many languages in the Sino-Tibetan family have uvular sounds. Some scholars have put forward the hypothesis that there should be a set of uvular sounds in Proto-Sino-Tibetan. This paper attempts to evaluate this hypothesis through the following aspects: (1) the synchronic distribution of uvular sounds in modern Sino-Tibetan languages; (2) a review of relevant literature; (3) a typological survey of uvular and velar sounds; (4) physiological and acoustical investigations of uvular sounds; (5) sound changes of uvulars; (6) the origin of the uvulars in Sino-Tibetan languages; (7) areal investigation of Sino-Tibetan uvulars from the perspective of language contact; (8) reconstruction of uvulars in Old Chinese; (9) examples of Sino-Tibetan cognates with uvular sounds.
Acoustic analysis of Zhuang long and short vowels
Authors: Zhou Xuewen
Published: February 2015

The contrast of long and short vowels and the acoustic features and physiological rules of long vowels in Hongshuihe (lit. Red Water River) dialect of Zhuang are investigated in this paper. The results show that in isolated words read at normal speed, there are evident differences in the durations of long and short vowels. But different vowels behave differently. Due to phonetic physiology, when long vowels are pronounced, the tongue is higher for high vowels, lower for low vowels, more front for front vowels and more back for back vowels. The pitch and power of short vowels are higher than for corresponding long vowels. Finally, physiological explanations for the above phenomena are given.