bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Distributed adaptive model‐based event‐triggered predictive control for consensus of multiagent systems
Authors: Yin Xiuxia , Yue Dong , Hu Songlin , Zhang Huaipin 
Published: November 2018

SummaryThis paper investigates the consensus problem for discrete‐time networked multiagent systems, where the information is exchanged through a shared network with communication delays. Based on the event‐triggered communication scheme together with the networked predictive control scheme, a novel distributed adaptive model‐based event‐triggered predictive control protocol is proposed to reduce the network communication burden and compensate for the communication delays actively. By using the virtual interval segmentation technique and the time‐delay modeling method together with defining a set of switching signals, the closed‐loop systems are established in forms of switching time‐delay systems. The problem of simultaneously deriving the controller gain matrix and the event‐triggering parameter matrices is cast into standard linear matrix inequalities problem. A convincing simulation example is given to demonstrate the theoretical results.
Intrinsic Carrier Transport of Phase‐Pure Homologous 2D Organolead Halide Hybrid Perovskite Single Crystals
Authors: Li Min‐Ken , Chen Tzu‐Pei , Lin Yen‐Fu , Raghavan Chinnambedu Murugesan , Chen Wei‐Liang , Yang Shih‐Hsien , Sankar Raman , Luo Chih‐Wei , Chang Yu‐Ming , Chen Chun‐Wei 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis work reveals the intrinsic carrier transport behavior of 2D organolead halide perovskites based on phase‐pure homologous (n = 1, 2, and 3) Ruddelsden–Popper perovskite (RPP) (BA)2(MA)n−1PbnI3n+1 single crystals. The 2D perovskite field effect transistors with high‐quality exfoliated 2D perovskite bulk crystals are fabricated, and characteristic output and transfer curves are measured from individual single‐crystal flakes with various n values under different temperatures. Unipolar n‐type transport dominated the electrical properties of all these 2D RPP single crystals. The transport behavior of the 2D organolead halide hybrid perovskites exhibits a strong dependence on the n value and the mobility substantially increases as the ratio of the number of inorganic perovskite slabs per organic spacer increases. By extracting the effect of contact resistances, the corrected mobility values for n = 1, 2, and 3 are 2 × 10−3, 8.3 × 10−2, and 1.25 cm2 V−1 s−1 at 77 K, respectively. Furthermore, by combining temperature‐dependent electrical transport and optical measurements, it is found that the origin of the carrier mobility dependence on the phase transition for 2D organolead halide perovskites is very different from that of their 3D counterparts. Our findings offer insight into fundamental carrier transport behavior of 2D organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites based on phase‐pure homologous single crystals.
Systemic Factors Trigger Vasculature Cells to Drive Notch Signaling and Neurogenesis in Neural Stem Cells in the Adult Brain
Authors: Lin Ruihe , Cai Jingli , Kenyon Lawrence , Iozzo Renato , Rosenwasser Robert , Iacovitti Lorraine 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
It is well documented that adult neural stem cells (NSCs) residing in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the subgranular zone (SGZ) are induced to proliferate and differentiate into new neurons after injury such as stroke and hypoxia. However, the role of injury-related cues in driving this process and the means by which they communicate with NSCs remains largely unknown. Recently, the coupling of neurogenesis and angiogenesis and the extensive close contact between vascular cells and other niche cells, known as the neurovascular unit (NVU), has attracted interest. Further facilitating communication between blood and NSCs is a permeable blood-brain-barrier (BBB) present in most niches, making vascular cells a potential conduit between systemic signals, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and NSCs in the niche, which could play an important role in regulating neurogenesis. We show that the leaky BBB in stem cell niches of the intact and stroke brain can respond to circulating VEGF165 to drive induction of the Notch ligand DLL4 (one of the most important cues in angiogenesis) in endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and further induce significant proliferation and neurogenesis of stem cells. Stem Cells 2019;37:395–406
Identification of optimal assisted aspiration conditions of oocytes for use in porcine in vitro maturation: A re‐evaluation of the relationship between the cumulus oocyte complex and oocyte quality
Authors: Silvestri Giuseppe , Rathje Claudia C. , Harvey Simon C. , Gould Rebecca L. , Walling Grant A. , Ellis Peter J.I. , Harvey Katie E. , Griffin Darren K. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe quality of porcine oocytes for use in IVF is commonly graded according to the number of layers of cumulus cells (CCs) surrounding the oocyte; together these form the cumulus oocyte complex (COC). At least three compact layers of CCs is regarded as important for efficient IVP. To test this, oocytes were scored according to cumulus investment, with grade A representing COCs with three or more cumulus layers including granulosa cell‐cumulus oocyte complexes, grade B those with an intact corona radiata surrounded by another layer of cumulus cells and grades C and D representing COCs with lower CC investment. These oocytes were then monitored for in vitro maturation (IVM), as assessed by tubulin immunostaining for meiotic progression, the development of a cortical granule ring, and by glutathione levels. Results indicate that grading correlates closely with nuclear maturation and cytoplasmic maturation, suggesting that grading oocytes by cumulus investment is a reliable method to predict IVM success. Importantly, Grade A and B oocytes showed no significant differences in any measure and hence using a cut‐off of two or more CC layers may be optimal. We also determined the effect of assisted aspiration for oocyte retrieval, comparing the effect of needle size and applied pressure on the retrieval rate. These data indicated that both variables affected oocyte recovery rates and the quality of recovered oocytes. In combination, these experiments indicate that grade A and B oocytes have a similar developmental potential and that the recovery of oocytes of these grades is maximised by use of an 18‐gauge needle and 50 mmHg aspiration pressure.
Laparoscopically assisted treatment of imperforate hymen in a patient with ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt for congenital hydrocephalous: A case report
Authors: Sorrentino Felice , Angioni Stefano , Pontis Alessandro , Greco Francesca , Scutiero Gennaro , Nappi Luigi 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
We report a case of laparoscopically assisted treatment of imperforate hymen in a patient with ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt for congenital hydrocephalous.

Presentation of case:
The patient presented primary amenorrhea and cyclical abdominal pain. At clinical examination a painful mass in the abdomen and normal secondary sex characteristics were observed. Perineal examination showed a bulging hymen and transabdominal ultrasonography and CT scan revealed a dense mass in the pelvis and abdomen. We diagnosed an imperforate hymen with haematocolpos and haematometra. The surgical procedure was performed under laparoscopic guidance in order to check the pelvic anatomy inside, to exclude the presence of adhesions and endometriotic lesions and to evaluate the ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt.

Discussion:
Imperforate hymen (IH) is the most common obstructive congenital anomaly of female genital tract. It is potentially accompanied by other female reproductive tract anomalies, suggesting a multifactorial genetic etiology. It usually presents during puberty, causing accumulation of menstrual products in the vagina (haematocolpos) or in the uterus (haematometra). Generally, the treatment consists in hymenotomy or hymenectomy, that allows the accumulated blood to be drained away. Laparoscopically assisted treatment of imperforate hymen is not routinely performed but it can be considered in particular clinical conditions. It is a viable procedure very useful to exclude female reproductive anomalies, the presence of pelvic pathology (adhesions and endometriosis) and to evaluate the ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt and its possible complications (abdominal pseudocyst).

Conclusion:
This is the first case of laparoscopically assisted treatment of imperforate hymen in a patient with ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt for congenital hydrocephalous. Laparoscopic guidance has to be considered to exclude other female reproductive anomalies, pelvic pathology and abdominal complications (shunt dysfunction and abdominal pseudocyst).

Highlights:
Anti-impact tension control strategy for the space-tethered combination after target capture
Authors: Wang B. , Guo J. F. , Yi L. , Zhou W. H. 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACTAn electromechanical coupling model is established for the space-tethered combination (STC) under microgravity environment after target capture by the tethered robot system (TRS). A linearized dynamic model of the STC is put forward with its controllability and observability as a control system analyzed. A double closed-loop tension control strategy is proposed to mitigate the impact and suing longitudinal vibration caused by the velocity difference between the platform and target. Experiment setup is built on a ground-based flotation platform to investigate the impact of the STC. Results of simulation and experimental validation show that the proposed tension control strategy is responsive and rapid in tension tracking and effectively prevent impact.
Relative Impermeability of the Wall of Separation: Marriage Equality in the Philippines
Authors: PANGALANGAN Raphael Lorenzo Aguiling 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe Philippine doctrine on the separation of church and state, while rooted in American constitutional tradition, continues to show vestiges of Spanish colonial rule. The Philippines adopted the union of church and state for three and a half centuries as a Spanish colony, but became a secular state after it was ceded to the United States of America in 1898. The wall of separation has since been maintained in all subsequent Philippine constitutions, only to be compromised in statutes and daily life. That conflict is most evident in marriage, a legal institution openly shaped by canon law. Falcis v Civil Registrar-General, the marriage equality petition pending before the Philippine Supreme Court, seeks to end that practice. But note the irony: while the US Supreme Court in Obergefell v Hodges secularizes marriage and disconnects it from religion, Falcis takes an opposing route in anchoring marriage equality on religious freedom. This article looks at the prospect of that gambit. By contrasting the legal and theological contexts from which Obergefell and Falcis stem, the article shows how the demands of same-sex union and church-state separation are tightly intertwined.
Selegiline in Patients With Disorder of Consciousness: An Open Pilot Study
Authors: Masotta Orsola , Trojano Luigi , Loreto Vincenzo , Moretta Pasquale , Estraneo Anna 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis open study investigated the clinical effects of 10-week selegiline administration in six patients in vegetative state and in four patients in a minimally conscious state, at least 6 months after onset. Clinical outcome was assessed by Coma Recovery Scale-Revised once a week during selegiline administration and 1 month later. Three patients stopped treatment because of possible side effects. After treatment and at 1 month of follow-up, four patients showed improvements in clinical diagnosis, and three patients showed an increase in arousal level only. Selegiline might represent a relatively safe option to enhance arousal and promote recovery in brain-injured patients with disorders of consciousness.
Concussion, Cagney, Captains of the Clouds
Authors: Weaver Donald F. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe case of James Cagney adds interesting details to the history of concussion. It is underappreciated that a movie-star of Cagney’s stature incurred multiple concussions over many years. Moreover, the fact that he sustained one of these concussions in Canada while filming Captains of the Clouds, a major Hollywood film, is essentially unknown, and was seldom discussed by Cagney despite his willingness to discuss his many other concussions. The scene showing this concussion was left in the final released version of the movie, making it one of the earliest filmed concussions and the first concussion ever filmed in Technicolor.
An Evaluation of the Family Informal Caregiver Stroke Self-Management Program
Authors: Mores Gail , Whiteman Rhonda McNicoll , Ploeg Jenny , Knobl Patricia , Cahn Miriam , Klaponski Laura , Lindley Ann , Fisher Kathy 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackground:Caregivers are often unprepared and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of providing care to stroke survivors, which can lead to negative physical and psychological effects.Purpose:To evaluate the impact of the Family Informal Caregiver Stroke Self-Management (FICSS) program on burden and life changes resulting from providing care among family caregivers of stroke survivors.Methods:A prospective pre-test and post-test design using quantitative and qualitative data was used to evaluate the program with a convenience sample of 42 caregivers. The four-module facilitated program consisted of small group-guided discussion. Quantitative evaluations were completed at baseline, 2 weeks and 6 months (post-intervention), and qualitative data were collected at 2 weeks and 6 months. Life changes and burden were measured using the Bakas Caregiving Outcome Scale (BCOS) and the Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale (OCBS), respectively.Results:The BCOS scores increased consistently over time, showing significant differences at 6 months compared with 2 weeks (mean difference: 5.29, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30-10.28,p=0.04) and baseline (mean difference: 7.58, 95% CI: 2.92-12.23,p=0.001). The OCBS time scores decreased consistently over time, showing a significant difference at 6 months compared with baseline (mean difference: −5.20, 95% CI: −0.96 to −9.44,p=0.02). The OCBS difficulty scores fluctuated over time, resulting in no overall difference from baseline to 6 months. Qualitative themes were consistent with the positive quantitative findings.Conclusion:Study results suggest that the FICSS program may result in reduced caregiver burden and improved life changes resulting from providing care.
Leading by leaving: Exploring the relationship between supervisory control, job crafting, self-competence and performance
Authors: Berdicchia Domenico , Masino Giovanni 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to examine whether different supervisory styles are relevant in facilitating or inhibiting job crafting, and whether job crafting plays a significant role in promoting self-competence and work performance. Data were gathered from 162 employees in a large manufacturing company. We found a positive relationship between promotive control and job crafting, and a negative relationship between restrictive control and job crafting. Some job crafting behaviors positively affect both self-competence and performance, while others have a negative effect. Our results suggest that organizations interested in promoting job crafting should encourage a promotive style of leadership.
Leader Effects and Gender Differences in Sequential Restaurant Ordering Environments
Authors: Schamel Guenter , Santos-Arteaga Francisco Javier 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe empirically examine the strategic importance of the choices of the first person ordering, that is, the leader, for the decisions made and money spent by other commensals at a restaurant table. Our aim is to study the similarity of orders—in terms of dishes, drinks, and prices—among the table leader and the other commensals. The empirical results reveal that table leaders, both male and female, exert a considerable influence on the choices made by other diners. We analyze the differences arising when males and females act as table leaders. (JEL Classifications: D12, D91)
Kato–Katz thick smears as a DNA source of soil-transmitted helminths
Authors: Monteiro K.J.L. , Calegar D.A. ,   Amazonas Research Group, Carvalho-Costa F.A. , Jaeger L.H. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractDespite the reduction in the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiases in many regions of the world, morbidity rates remain high in some rural regions. The Kato–Katz technique is a simple, inexpensive and field-applicable tool commonly used for the diagnosis and worm-burden characterization of these infections. Molecular studies have revolutionized our understanding of the epidemiology and evolutionary genetics of parasites. In this study we recovered helminthic DNA from Kato–Katz slides (n = 93) prepared in 2011 in the Brazilian Amazon. We achieved DNA recovery by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 84% of cases for Ascaris sp. and 75% of cases for hookworms. The sequencing confirmed the specific species of the amplicons. The slides stored for a few years could be analysed using this methodology, allowing access to DNA from a large collection of samples. We must consider the Kato–Katz thick smears as a source of helminth DNA. This can significantly reduce logistical difficulties in the field in terms of obtaining, preserving, transporting and initial processing of samples.
Is the seasonal change of sexual differences in shell use by the hermit crabPagurus minutusconsidered to be driven by growth or reproduction?
Authors: Yasuda Chiaki I. , Takiya Yuki , Otoda Masaya , Nakano Reiko , Koga Tsunenori 
Published: November 2018

AbstractSexual differences in behaviours are often affected by the difference in individual interests between the sexes: growth in males and egg production in females. Some hermit crabs show sexual differences in shell use patterns during the reproductive season. In the non-reproductive season, however, when both sexes are focused on increasing growth, this sexual difference is expected to be reduced. In this study, we compared the pattern of shell use in the hermit crabPagurus minutusbetween seasons, while focusing on the effects of shell shape on growth or egg production. As we predicted, sexual differences in shell use inP. minutusshowed seasonal change. In the non-reproductive season, both sexes appeared to use shells well suited for growth. In the reproductive season, sexual differences became more evident, especially in larger solitary crabs and guarding pairs; males monopolized round-type shells such as those ofUmbonium moniliferum, whereas more than 80% of females relied on high-spiredBatillaria-type shells such as those ofBatillaria zonalis. A lack of advantage for egg number in females usingBatillaria-type shells suggests that female shell use is explained by factors other than maximizing clutch size. Both sexes can moult during the reproductive season, and larger body size is advantageous for reproduction. Given thatBatillaria-type shells resulted in a lower growth increment and males have an advantage in shell fights in congeneric crabs, our findings suggest the importance of intersexual competition for shells and female compromise in determining the seasonal change of shell use patterns inP. minutus.
Entrepreneurs of Themselves: How Poor Women Enact Asset-Building Discourse
Authors: FELDMAN GUY , SCHRAM SANFORD F. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWelfare policy discourse plays an important role in shaping how marginalised groups are identified and how poverty is addressed. Research on welfare policy discourse has mostly adopted a top-down perspective, examining how marginalised groups are constituted through interrelated discourses that are produced and enacted by powerful actors. However, little attention has been given to understanding how welfare policy discourse is used and enacted by marginalised groups themselves. This article focuses on asset-building discourse, a newly ascendant discourse which suggests that poverty can be alleviated through savings and building wealth. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 24 poor single mothers of colour participating in a matched savings programme, the article explores how poor women rely on asset-building discourse to make sense of their poverty challenges and how to overcome them. The study finds that the women express neoliberal ideals as they seek to portray themselves as committed to becoming self-sufficient, financially literate, disciplined savers and entrepreneurs. The findings indicate that the women feel empowered and see themselves as worthy citizens, irrespective of whether their economic situation has actually improved or whether they ultimately come to resist asset-building discourse's individualisation of their predicament.
An Electrophysiological Method for Examining Lumbosacral Root Compression
Authors: Eisen Andrew , Schomer Donald , Melmed Calvin 
Published: November 2018

SummaryThe propagation velocities and conduction times of nerve impulses responsible for muscle F-waves were measured in the proximal segments of 60 normal posterior tibial nerves and of 41 normal peroneal nerves. The results were compared with those of 25 patients having confirmed lumbosacral root compression due to disc degeneration. Using the peroneal nerve, 65 per cent of patients had a prolonged proximal conduction time; a similar abnormality was found in 56 per cent of patients when the posterior tibial nerve was studied. The yield of positive results rose to 85 per cent and 76 per cent respectively when the M- and F-latencies in given individuals were compared. It was also shown that in normal subjects the F-response has a longer latency, and slower conduction velocity than the H-reflex when both are obtained using the same stimulating and recording sites, in patients in whom the ankle jerks and H-reflexes are absent, the F-waves may still be recorded, indicating that the latter are mediated through motor fibers
Ribonuclease Activity of Human Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Rabin E. Z. , Weinberger V. , Tattrie B. 
Published: November 2018

SummaryThe ribonuclease activity of cerebrospinal fluid of 219 patients was studied. The normal level was 269 ±95 units/ml. Consistent elevations above 550 units/ml were found in. 1 Chronic cerebrovascular disease, 2 Spinal cord compression; 3. Tumors. The molecular weights of the ribonucleases in the cerebrospinal fluid are approximately 33,000; 21,000 and 15,000, the major species is the one with m w. 33,000.Although the increase in the CSF ribonuclease activity is not disease specific, the measurement has provided corroborative help in cases when the CSF protein is normal.The increase in CSF RNAase is not due to red or white blood cells and the immunologie data suggest that the CSF enzyme activity is derived from the blood stream Further studies are necessary to rule out a nerve cell origin of the CSF ribonuclease activity.