bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract PL03-03: Taming the beast: Strategies to target the immune-suppressive macrophage to enhance cancer immune therapy
Authors: Varner Judith A.
Published: August 2019

Advances in basic, translational and clinical research have revealed the power of cancer immune therapy. Checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive T cell therapies are novel, FDA approved therapeutic strategies that promote recruitment to and activation of tumor-reactive cytotoxic T cells. While promising, these strategies are not effective in all cancer patients, and resistance to therapy often develops. Recent advances in the study of the tumor microenvironment have revealed that tumor-associated myeloid cells accumulate rapidly in tumors where they promote resistance to checkpoint inhibitor therapy and adoptive T cell therapy, inhibit immune responses to tumor cells, and stimulate tumor progression. The most abundant of these myeloid cells, macrophages, usually serve as a first line of defense against pathogenic insults to tissues. These innate immune cells mount pro-inflammatory responses to pathogens and repair damaged tissues. However, in tumors, macrophages (TAMs) accumulate rapidly and potently suppress anti-tumor immunity and promote tumor progression. Preclinical studies have identified crucial pathways that regulate the recruitment, polarization, transcription and metabolism of TAMs during tumor progression. We have found that an isoform of PI3Kinase, PI3Kgamma, controls these pathways by activating mTORC1-mediated transcriptional and metabolic pathways that suppress cytotoxic T cell recruitment and activation. Targeting PI3Kgamma and its downstream effectors inhibits immune suppressive polarization and promotes NFkappaB activation and pro-inflammatory transcription in macrophages, thereby recruiting CD8+ T cells and stimulating T cell activation and memory. Novel therapeutics targeting PI3Kgamma stimulate cytotoxic T cell activation and recruitment and synergize with checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy in preclinical studies. Clinical trials with PI3Kgamma inhibitors such as IPI-549 (Infinity Pharmaceuticals) are currently underway and offer the promise of improved cancer outcomes for many tumor types.

Citation Format: Judith A. Varner. Taming the beast: Strategies to target the immune-suppressive macrophage to enhance cancer immune therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr PL03-03.
Abstract SY25-03: Germline MHC-I and -II variation constrains the somatic mutational landscape
Authors: Marty Rachel
Published: August 2019

Tumors arise when cells accumulate genomic alterations that allow them to sustain rapid growth. Since the immune system is capable of eliminating tumor cells, another prerequisite for tumor formation is evasion of immune recognition. Recently, therapies that reactivate the immune system have been able to eliminate some tumors. However, only a small fraction of patients receives a sustained benefit from these immunotherapies, suggesting that we have yet to understand the complexity of tumor-immune interactions. The immune response to tumors is mediated by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), one of the most variable molecules encoded by the human genome. The MHC communicates cellular health to the immune system by binding and presenting antigen to circulating T cells. Due to technical limitations, the impact of the inter-patient MHC heterogeneity on tumor development has remained understudied. To address this gap, we utilized a large phenotypically-annotated cohort of cancer patient and recent algorithmic advances to assess the role of MHC variation on tumor progression. Though there are two classes of MHC with different functional mechanisms, we found that germline variation in both classes impacts patient somatic mutation susceptibility and population somatic mutation frequencies. The methods we developed expose the role of the immune system in shaping tumor formation and lay the foundation for improved development of immunotherapies.

Citation Format: Rachel Marty. Germline MHC-I and -II variation constrains the somatic mutational landscape [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr SY25-03.
Abstract SY30-03: Desmoplastic matrices: Enablers of a synapse-like axis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Cukierman Edna
Published: August 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is predicted to soon become the second killer cancer in the USA. One of the hallmarks of PDAC is desmoplasia, which mostly consists of an expansion in activated stellate cells, known as cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and remodeling of their extracellular matrix. Desmoplasia is a major culprit for the unique PDAC microenvironment; it collapses blood vessels, restricting nutrients, and fosters immunosuppression. Crosstalk between CAFs, PDAC, and immune cells, within this microenvironment, is not fully understood. This seminar will shed light on how CAF-derived matrices trigger a new signaling axis, akin to excitatory synaptic stress, responsible for CAF support of tumor cells under nutritional restriction as well as fostering pro-tumoral immunosuppression. The study identifies a novel potential target for PDAC, a cancer that is in desperate need of new and more effective therapies.

Citation Format: Edna Cukierman. Desmoplastic matrices: Enablers of a synapse-like axis in pancreatic cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr SY30-03.
Abstract SY36-01: Decoding the biochemical, regulatory, and clinical impact of genomic mutations
Authors: Troyanskaya Olga
Published: August 2019

A key challenge in precision medicine lies in decoding the complexity of the functional effects of genome variation to determine which mutations are functional and what are their biochemical and phenotypic consequences. This question is especially difficult for the 98% of the genome that is outside of exomes. To address this challenge we developed deep learning-based methods, DeepSEA and SeqWeaver, that predict the transcriptional and post-transcriptional effects of noncoding variants with single-nucleotide sensitivity. These methods not only classify mutations as likely to be associated with disease, they also provide specific biochemical consequences of each mutation, including on transcription factor and RBP binding, histone modification, and DNA accessibility. Building upon these findings, we created a deep learning-based framework, ExPecto, that can accurately predict, ab initio from DNA sequence alone, the tissue-specific transcriptional effects of mutations. These methods thus provide a platform for predicting and characterizing specific mutational impact for any genomic mutation, including those that are rare or that have not been observed. Applying these methods (available at hb.flatironinstitute.org) to whole genomes in a number of diseases, including cancer, autism, and heart disease, we demonstrate the contribution of de novo noncoding mutations and analyze the functional landscape of noncoding cancer-associated mutations.

Citation Format: Olga Troyanskaya. Decoding the biochemical, regulatory, and clinical impact of genomic mutations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr SY36-01.
Abstract SY40-01: The hippo pathway in growth, regeneration, and cancer
Authors: Guan Kun-Liang
Published: August 2019

The Hippo pathway is crucial in organ size control and its dysregulation contributes to tumorigenesis. Core components of the Hippo pathway include the protein kinases of MST1/2, MAP4Ks, LATS1/2, the transcription co-activators YAP/TAZ and their DNA binding partners TEADs. LATS phosphorylates YAP/TAZ to promote cytoplasmic localization and degradation, thereby inhibiting YAP/TAZ and cell growth. The Hippo pathway is regulated by a wide range of signals, including cell density, GPCR, cellular energy levels, and mechanical cues. We will present our recent progresses on Hippo pathway regulation and its role in cancer. The emerging role of the Hippo pathway in tumorigenesis suggests potential therapeutic value of targeting this pathway for cancer treatment.

Citation Format: Kun-Liang Guan. The hippo pathway in growth, regeneration, and cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr SY40-01.
N-Acetyl-Seryl-Aspartyl-Lysyl-Proline Augments Thrombolysis of tPA (Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator) in Aged Rats After Stroke
Authors: Li Chao , Zhang Li , Wang Chunyang , Teng Hua , Fan Baoyan , Chopp Michael , Zhang Zheng Gang
Published: August 2019

Background and Purpose—

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, mainly affecting the elderly. However, preclinical studies in aged ischemic animals are limited. N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (AcSDKP) is a naturally occurring tetrapeptide with vascular-protective properties. The present study investigated the effect of AcSDKP on tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator)-induced thrombolysis in aged rats after ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Aged male rats (18 months) were subjected to embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion. Rats subjected to 4 hours of middle cerebral artery occlusion were randomized into the following groups: (1) AcSDKP; (2) tPA; (3) AcSDKP in combination with tPA; and (4) saline. Neurological deficits, cerebral microvascular patency and integrity, and infarction were examined at 1 day and 7 days after middle cerebral artery occlusion. In vitro experiments were performed to examine the effect of AcSDKP on aged cerebral endothelial cell permeability.

Results—

Compared with saline, AcSDKP, or tPA as monotherapy did not have any therapeutic effects, whereas AcSDKP in combination with tPA significantly reduced cerebral tissue infarction and improved neurological outcome without increasing cerebral hemorrhage. Concurrently, the combination treatment significantly augmented microvascular perfusion and reduced thrombosis and blood-brain barrier leakage. In vitro, compared with cerebral endothelial cells from ischemic adult rats, the endothelial cells from ischemic aged rats exhibited significantly increased leakage. AcSDKP suppressed tPA-induced aged endothelial cell leakage and reduced expression of ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1) and NF (nuclear factor)-κB.

Conclusions—

The present study provides evidence for the therapeutic efficacy of AcSDKP in combination tPA for the treatment of embolic stroke in aged rats at 4 hours after stroke onset. AcSDKP likely acts on cerebral endothelial cells to enhance the benefits of tPA by increasing tissue perfusion and augmenting the integrity of the blood-brain barrier.

Visual Overview—

An online
visual overview
is available for this article.
Cold War Adviser: Llewellyn Thompson and the Making of U.S. Policy toward the Soviet Union
Authors: Goldgeier James , Simons Thomas W. , Pechatnov Vladimir , Zubok Vladislav , Caldwell Dan , Thompson Jenny , Thompson Sherry
Published: August 2019

Llewellyn Thompson was arguably the most influential figure who ever advised U.S. presidents about policy toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War, yet until 2018 no book-length biography of him had appeared. Fortunately, a stellar biography was published last year, and it is the subject of this book forum. Thompson's two daughters, Jenny and Sherry, wrote the book after carrying out extensive archival research. The finished book is both absorbing and illuminating, a book worthy of Thompson. Five experts offer commentaries on various aspects of the book, followed by a reply from Thompson's daughters.
The Impact of the Black Death on Iranian Trade (1340s-1450s A.D.)
Authors: Fazlinejad Ahmad , Ahmadi Farajollah
Published: August 2019

The Great Plague, generally known as the Black Death, swept many parts of the three continents of Asia, Africa and Europe in the mid-14th century repeatedly for decades and inflicted widespread demographical, social and economic consequences. Contrary to the common attitude of researchers in neglecting the spread of the Black Death in Iran during the 14th century and its relapse periods, findings of this study indicate that the Great Plague, which had numerous victims in Iran, mostly disrupted the country’s commercial relationships with the plague-stricken trade routes and centers. Moreover, due to the tragic consequences caused by the Black Death, Iran lost its position as one of the main routes in the international trade. In this study, based predominantly on historiographical sources in Persian and Arabic, Iran’s position in international trade in the era of Black Death is analyzed.
The Ubiquity of Positive Measures for Addressing Systemic Discrimination and Inequality
Authors: Oppenheimer David B.
Published: August 2019

In The Ubiquity of Positive Measures for Addressing Systemic Discrimination and Inequality: A Comparative Global Perspective, part of the Brill series on Comparative Discrimination Law, David Oppenheimer compares positive measures for addressing inequality and systemic discrimination, including discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, disability, and religion. Across the globe, such measures are ubiquitous, commonly applied in employment, admission to selective colleges and universities, selection for legislative seats, and membership on corporate boards. They are variously described as “positive measures,” “affirmative action,” “positive action,” “compensatory action,” or “special measures.”

These policies began in the late-eighteenth to mid-nineteenth centuries, as a part of the social/political movements to end slavery, grant universal suffrage, end colonialism, grant equal rights to women and men regardless of social status or property, eliminate the caste system, adopt measures of proportional representation, embrace the benefits of diversity, and endorse universal equality.

Nearly every large nation in the world has adopted at least some special measure plans, with continuing experiments using quotas, reservations, set-asides, reparations, preferences, tie-breakers, targeted recruiting efforts, diversity measures, equity and inclusion policies, anti or unconscious bias training, and public disclosure requirements.
Media and Witchcraft Accusation in Northern Ghana
Authors: Igwe Leo
Published: August 2019

There has been a growing visibility of witchcraft beliefs in the African media. The dominant paradigm in the academic literature on witchcraft is that the media reinforce witchcraft beliefs by disseminating information and ideas that are related to witchcraft accusations and witch hunting. However, a careful examination shows that this is not always the case because the media serve other counter purposes. Using ethnographic data from the Dagomba area in Northern Ghana and the concept of forum shopping, this paper explores how accused persons in the Dagomba communities utilize the limited media coverage to enhance their responses to witchcraft accusations. Apart from disseminating information regarding the activities of assumed witches, the media publicize perspectives that reject witchcraft notions.
Identity, Situational Elements, and Responses to Drug Debt
Authors: Dickinson Timothy
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

This study examines illicit drug sellers’ explanations of how their identities and attendant responses to drug debts are influenced by the situational elements of accounts, relationships with customers, and their business concerns.

Methods:

The study draws from data gathered from in-depth interviews with 33 active drug dealers operating in St. Louis, Missouri. Informants were recruited using a snowball sampling design. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods.

Results:

Drug sellers explain their self-views as “drug sellers” and ideal responses to debts as associated with the amounts and types of drugs they sell and their relationships with suppliers and customers as a whole. They suggest that deviations from these identities and responses are due to accounts (in the case of sellers that use violence), relationships with specific customers, and business concerns.

Conclusions:

The results add complexity to understanding of the connection between drug market structure, sellers’ identities, and their conflict management. Results also suggest the connection between culture and drug market violence is more nuanced than previously suggested. This study also adds to criminological understanding of how accounts can deescalate conflict by altering identities of offending parties and grievants.
Understanding corruption in the lower levels of the Afghan police force
Authors: Singh Danny
Published: August 2019

Definitions of police corruption are usually associated with bribery and extortion. Police culture entails internalised and uncodified norms, rules and values that may enhance susceptibility of corruption within a police force. This article provides an empirical study on police corruption within the lower levels of the Afghan police due to the lack of studies conducted with them. Undertaking a social constructivist approach, the aim of the study is to provide the perceptions from Afghan police officers on the causes and practices of police corruption. The findings reveal that the main causes are heavily linked to unprofessionalism, low pay and the lack of controls. Police accountability is low and solidarity appears high. Moreover, patronage and the acceptance of corruption as a means to getting things done are part of social practices engrained in Afghan culture which leads to the practices of biased recruitment, bribery and extortion. In relation to noble cause corruption, there is no sense of mission and the idea of policing, as part of a mandate, has been lost in the Afghan police force. An understanding of police corruption and police culture from the perspective of street-level police officers is relevant to understand the main causes and practices of corruption and mitigate them to restore public faith in the police as a main port of security. This can prevent potential Taliban resurgence by deterring alternative security promoted by the insurgency.
Nonlinear disturbance observer-based control for a class of discrete-time stochastic systems with multiple heterogenous disturbances
Authors: Zhao Hanxu , Wei Xinjiang , Zhang Huifeng , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: August 2019

In this paper, the nonlinear disturbance observer-based control (NDOBC) scheme is proposed for a class of discrete-time stochastic systems with multiple heterogenous disturbances, which include the non-harmonic disturbance and a sequence of random vectors. A nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) is designed to estimate the non-harmonic disturbance, then the NDOBC scheme is proposed by combining DOBC with [Formula: see text] control, such that the composite system can achieves asymptotically mean-square bounded and asymptotically mean-square stable in different conditions. Finally, simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Inferior Turbinate Reduction: Diode LASER or Conventional Partial Turbinectomy?
Authors: Doreyawar Venkatesh , Gadag Raveendra P. , Dandinarasaiah Manjunath , Javali Shivalingappa B. , Maradi Nagaraj , Shetty Deekshit
Published: August 2019

Hypertrophy of inferior nasal turbinate is one of the most common causes for nasal obstruction (NO). As diode laser has proven to be as effective as any other lasers, our objective was to study various primary outcomes of its use of diode laser like improvement in NO, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative pain, and rapidity of healing. The study was undertaken to compare the various outcomes by diode laser turbinate reduction (LTR) and conventional partial inferior turbinectomy (PIT). A nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted on 2 groups: One group (30 cases) underwent LTR and PIT was performed in the other group (30 cases). The improvement in NO was measured postoperatively up to 6 months. Intraoperative bleeding was measured and postoperative pain scores were assessed each day up to fifth postoperative day. Lastly, rapidity of healing was evaluated until 6 months. Subjective relief of NO was 90.8% in LTR group, whereas it was 65% in PIT group at 6-month follow-up, which was statistically significant ( P < .05). Pain scores were higher until 5 days in PIT group compared to LTR group ( P = .0001). Intraoperative bleeding mean scores (milliliters) were 8.03 in LTR group compared to 23.29 in PIT group ( P = .00001). Rapidity of healing was faster in LTR group with mean scores of 3.03 weeks in comparison to PIT group where it was 6.33 weeks ( P = .00001). Compared to the conventional technique, the outcomes were better with diode laser and caused less morbidity.
Expanding Task Instructions May Increase Fractions Problem Difficulty for Students With Mathematics Learning Disability
Authors: Herold Katherine H. , Bock Allison M. , Murphy Melissa M. , Mazzocco Michèle M. M.
Published: August 2019

When a student struggles with a mathematics task, adults may rephrase or expand initial task instructions to clarify instructions or scaffold problem solving. Yet expanded instructions may not benefit all children, especially children with a mathematics learning disability (MLD). Here, we explore whether expanded instructions differentially affect fractions comparison performance for children with or without MLD. Fifth graders ( N = 190) completed two consecutive sets of 24 fraction comparison items, each accompanied by initial or expanded instructions, respectively; and also completed vocabulary, spatial reasoning, verbal working memory, executive function, and number knowledge tasks. Results showed that fraction comparison performance was generally worse following expanded rather than initial instructions, particularly for difficult items or for children with MLD. Fixed ordered regressions showed that the strength of cognitive skills as predictors of performance varied depending on instructions format and MLD status, that the five cognitive predictors collectively accounted for more performance variation with initial compared to expanded instructions, and that vocabulary’s relative predictive strength as a single predictor increased when instructions were expanded, but only for children with mathematics difficulties. These findings support the notion that problem features differentially affect children with or without MLD and that not all children benefit from hearing expanded instructions for difficult mathematics tasks.
Life Restoration and Future Care Preparation Among Older Parents in Shanghai Who Have Lost Their Only Adult Child
Authors: Chen Lin , Song Yajun , You Yixin
Published: August 2019

The combination of aging and losing their only adult child challenges an increasing number of older adults in China. Current literature primarily focuses on older parents’ bereavement but seldom examines their effort to cope with subsequent life changes brought about by only-child loss. This study explores how older parents in Shanghai who lost their only adult child restore their lives and prepare for future care. Twenty-four older adults were purposively sampled and participated in face-to-face, in-depth interviews. The findings suggest that participants tried to restore their lives by rationalizing grief and expanding their social networks. Despite their losses, participants remained in favor of family caregiving and reluctantly prepared for future care. Their ambivalent attitudes toward government support call for caution in approaches to service delivery.
Relationship between the Daily Rhythm of Distal Skin Temperature and Brown Adipose Tissue 18F-FDG Uptake in Young Sedentary Adults
Authors: Acosta Francisco M. , Martinez-Tellez Borja , Blondin Denis P. , Haman François , Rensen Patrick C. N. , Llamas-Elvira Jose M. , Martinez-Nicolas Antonio , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: August 2019

The present study examines whether the daily rhythm of distal skin temperature (DST) is associated with brown adipose tissue (BAT) metabolism as determined by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) uptake in young adults. Using a wireless thermometer (iButton) worn on the nondominant wrist, DST was measured in 77 subjects (26% male; age 22 ± 2 years; body mass index 25.2 ± 4.8 kg/m2) for 7 consecutive days. The temperatures to which they were habitually exposed over the day were also recorded. The interday stability of DST was calculated from the collected data, along with the intraday variability and relative amplitude; the mean temperature of the 5 and 10 consecutive hours with the maximum and minimum DST values, respectively; and when these hours occurred. Following exposure to cold, BAT volume and mean and peak standardized 18F-FDG uptake (SUVmean and SUVpeak) were determined for each subject via static 18F-FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography scanning. Relative amplitude and the time at which the 10 consecutive hours of minimum DST values occurred were positively associated with BAT volume, SUVmean, and SUVpeak ( p ≤ 0.02), whereas the mean DST of that period was inversely associated with the latter BAT variables ( p ≤ 0.01). The interday stability and intraday variability of the DST were also associated (directly and inversely, respectively) with BAT SUVpeak ( p ≤ 0.02 for both). All of these associations disappeared, however, when the analyses were adjusted for the ambient temperature to which the subjects were habitually exposed. Thus, the relationship between the daily rhythm of DST and BAT activity estimated by 18F-FDG uptake is masked by environmental and likely behavioral factors. Of note is that those participants exposed to the lowest ambient temperature showed 3 to 5 times more BAT volume and activity compared with subjects who were exposed to a warmer ambient temperature.
Factor Structure of the Communication Patterns Questionnaire in Violence-Exposed Women
Authors: Pickover Alison M. , Dodson Thomas S. , Tran Han N. , Lipinski Alexandra J. , Beck J. Gayle
Published: August 2019

Understanding and addressing violence among intimate partners requires sound assessment of their communication patterns. In prior research, the 35-item, self-report Communication Patterns Questionnaire (CPQ) has been used to assess communication patterns in violent relationships. To date, psychometric analysis of the CPQ has been examined only among nonviolent couples; no studies have examined the psychometric properties of this measure in a sample of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Using confirmatory factor analysis, the present study evaluated the factor structure of the CPQ in a sample of women survivors of IPV who sought mental health assessments at a university research clinic. Analyses suggested that a modified three-factor solution (constructive communication [CC], self-demand/partner withdraw [SDPW], partner demand/self-withdraw [PDSW]) provided good fit in our sample. Internal consistency estimates for each of the modified scales were acceptable and exceeded reported coefficients in prior IPV studies. Significant bivariate correlations among modified scales, and between communication patterns and aggressive behaviors, provided initial validity evidence for the CPQ scales in our sample. We found CC to be negatively associated with partner psychological aggression, PDSW to be positively associated with all forms of partner aggression and respondent psychological aggression, and SDPW to be positively associated with respondent physical and psychological aggression. The results of this study indicate that the CPQ may be an appropriate measure for assessing communication patterns in violent relationships; however, modified scoring procedures should be used. We contextualize our results within existing models of IPV and address clinical, cultural, and contextual issues in communication patterns assessment.
The Wage Gap: No One’s Responsibility, But Everyone’s Problem
Authors: Ford Lori Allen , Deptula Bryan J.
Published: August 2019

Wage inequality in America is ballooning. The issue is receiving significant attention in the public discourse but to what avail? It is an issue that affects the entire economy although the suffering thus far has focused primarily on the lower 90% of wage earners. The long-term impacts, however, may be even more encompassing. Regardless of the potential costs, under the currently understood societal roles of corporate leaders and politicians, the issue of wage inequality is currently no one’s specific responsibility to address, but everyone’s problem. We examine the current wage status of the economic classes, the compensation practices that contribute and potential societal and economic costs if no action is taken. Finally, we consider the roles that potential players currently perform and should consider in the future to strategically address this issue.
A Review of Recreation Requirements in U.S. Juvenile Justice Facilities
Authors: León Maria , Outley Corliss , Marchbanks Miner , Kelly Pryor Brandy
Published: August 2019

In the United States, the mission of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention includes the development and implementation of prevention and intervention programs. While many of these initiatives include recreation, there remains no standard for recreation programs. The purpose of this study was to review the written authorities for each state to identify the minimum requirements for recreation programming in juvenile justice facilities. Among other discoveries, we found that across all states, there is not a shared definition of recreation, only 70% of states have daily mandatory minimums requirements, only 44% of states require youth be given time outside, and only 56% of states include justifications for denying youth access to recreation. Implications for professionals and researchers are discussed, as well as suggestions for further inquiry and the integration of recreation into the treatment process.
Gendered Agency in Skilled Migration: The Case of Indian Women in the United States
Authors: Manohar Namita N.
Published: August 2019

This article examines how skilled middle-class Tamil women—an Indian regional group—negotiate with gender to strategize immigration to and settlement in the United States by drawing on life-history interviews with 33 first-generation professional women, most of whom entered the United States as family migrants. I find that the women negotiate with gender to (re)configure Tamil Brahminical relations of subordination, thereby asserting their subjectivity through “strident embedded agency” in immigration. In this way, they realize gender non-normative desires for immigration, engage in gender non-normative actions, and perform normative actions in reconstituted ways. Even as their strident embedded agency facilitates their embodiment of (re)configured Tamil womanhood, it (re)produces Tamil Brahmin relations of subordination. This article delineates the complexity of women’s subjectivities and agency and Tamil women’s agential strategizing of immigration as emergent from their gendered and caste/classed social locations.
Monitoring of the technical condition of tracks based on machine learning
Authors: Firlik Bartosz , Tabaszewski Maciej
Published: August 2019

This paper presents the concept of a simple system for the identification of the technical condition of tracks based on a trained learning system in the form of three independent neural networks. The studies conducted showed that basic measurements based on the root mean square of vibration acceleration allow for monitoring the track condition provided that the rail type has been included in the information system. Also, it is necessary to select data based on the threshold value of the vehicle velocity. In higher velocity ranges (above 40 km/h), it is possible to distinguish technical conditions with a permissible error of 5%. Such selection also enables to ignore the impact of rides through switches and crossings. Technical condition monitoring is also possible at lower ride velocities; however, this comes at the cost of reduced accuracy of the analysis.
Numerical investigation of the effects of splitter blade deflection on the pressure pulsation in a low specific speed centrifugal pump
Authors: Zhang Jinfeng , Li Guidong , Mao Jieyun , Yuan Shouqi , Qu Yefei , Jia Jing
Published: August 2019

A combination of experimental and numerical simulation was carried out to analyze the influences of the splitter blade deflection on the performance and pressure fluctuation in low specific speed pumps with and without splitter blades under different flow rates. Performance experiments and particle image velocimetry (PIV) tests were performed to verify the results of the numerical calculation. Several monitoring points were placed in the calculation model pump to collect the pressure fluctuation signals, which were processed by Fast Fourier Transform to obtain the frequency results for further analysis. In addition, turbulence intensity and relative velocity distribution were also analyzed in the regions of the impeller and volute. The results showed that compared with a prototype without a splitter blade and the splitter blade schemes, the maximum pressure pulsation amplitudes are the lowest at different monitoring points of the model pump when the splitter blade deflects to the suction side of the main blade. The variation of pressure pulsation amplitude in this scheme is relatively stable with the change of flow rates compared with other schemes. Furthermore, the impeller scheme with an appropriate deflection of the splitter blade has the lowest turbulence intensity and optimal relative velocity distribution in the main flow passage. Therefore, this paper proposes a reference scheme of the impeller with the splitter blade to effectively decrease the predominate pressure pulsation amplitude.
A monotone data augmentation algorithm for longitudinal data analysis via multivariate skew-t, skew-normal or t distributions
Authors: Tang Yongqiang
Published: August 2019

The mixed effects model for repeated measures has been widely used for the analysis of longitudinal clinical data collected at a number of fixed time points. We propose a robust extension of the mixed effects model for repeated measures for skewed and heavy-tailed data on basis of the multivariate skew-t distribution, and it includes the multivariate normal, t, and skew-normal distributions as special cases. An efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is developed using the monotone data augmentation and parameter expansion techniques. We employ the algorithm to perform controlled pattern imputations for sensitivity analyses of longitudinal clinical trials with nonignorable dropouts. The proposed methods are illustrated by real data analyses. Sample SAS programs for the analyses are provided in the online supplementary material.
Thealogy Matters
Authors: Christ Carol P.
Published: August 2019

In this article Carol P. Christ states that ‘thealogy matters’ because religious symbols not only articulate meaning but also provide orientation for ethical decision-making. Rejecting the notions that religious meaning is delivered from on high and that traditions must be uncritically accepted, she proposes a model of ‘embodied theology’ in which individuals and communities take responsibility for religious worldviews. She asks us to question Jungian theories of the feminine, images of the Goddess in patriarchal traditions, models of ritual practice in the Wiccan tradition as articulated by Gerald Garner, and the idea of divine omnipotence modelled on the ‘tyrant ideal’ of God. She explores two ways in which process panentheism can help us to understand the divine power we call Goddess.
Is securitization theory racist? Civilizationism, methodological whiteness, and antiblack thought in the Copenhagen School
Authors: Howell Alison , Richter-Montpetit Melanie
Published: August 2019

This article provides the first excavation of the foundational role of racist thought in securitization theory. We demonstrate that Copenhagen School securitization theory is structured not only by Eurocentrism but also by civilizationism, methodological whiteness, and antiblack racism. Classic securitization theory advances a conceptualization of ‘normal politics’ as reasoned, civilized dialogue, and securitization as a potential regression into a racially coded uncivilized ‘state of nature’. It justifies this through a civilizationist history of the world that privileges Europe as the apex of civilized ‘desecuritization’, sanitizing its violent (settler-) colonial projects and the racial violence of normal liberal politics. It then constructs a methodologically and normatively white framework that uses speech act theory to locate ‘progress’ towards normal politics and desecuritization in Europe, making becoming like Europe a moral imperative. Using ostensibly neutral terms, securitization theory prioritizes order over justice, positioning the securitization theorist as the defender of (white) ‘civilized politics’ against (racialized) ‘primal anarchy’. Antiblackness is a crucial building-block in this conceptual edifice: securitization theory finds ‘primal anarchy’ especially in ‘Africa’, casting it as an irrationally oversecuritized foil to ‘civilized politics’. We conclude by discussing whether the theory, or even just the concept of securitization, can be recuperated from these racist foundations.
Effect of testing procedure on the in-plane shear properties of CNF/glass/epoxy composites
Authors: Taheri-Behrooz F , Esmkhani M , Yaghoobi-Chatroodi A
Published: August 2019

Many investigations have demonstrated that the addition of nanoscale particles could affect in-plane shear properties of the laminated composites. Besides, a variety of testing procedures were introduced to evaluate the in-plane shear properties of the multiscale composite materials. In the current research, Iosipescu shear, double V-notched rail, and off-axis tensile testing methods were used to measure in-plane shear modulus and strength of the glass/epoxy and carbon nanofiber (CNF) as 0.25 wt% CNF/glass/epoxy laminated composites. In-plane shear properties of the CNF/glass/epoxy specimens were increased in comparison with the neat glass/epoxy specimens using all three testing procedures. However, the improvements were not identical for all the testing methods. The maximum improvements in the in-plane shear modulus and strength recorded using off-axis tensile test method were as 11% and 15.6%, respectively.

In the off-axis tensile test method, all in-plane stress components are activated in the fracture plane parallel to the fiber orientation which are responsible for the failure initiation and propagation. Consequently, enhancing the resin’s mechanical property and interface bonding quality using CNF could remarkably enhance the in-plane shear property of the CNF/glass/epoxy specimens. On the other hand, the special fiber orientation of the specimens in Iosipescu shear and V-notched rail methods prevents the reinforcing effects of the CNF particles to be effectively revealed.
Volatility Spillover Effect in Commodity Derivatives Market: Empirical Evidence Through Generalized Impulse Response Function
Authors: Rout Bhabani Sankar , Das Nupur Moni , Rao K. Chandrasekhara
Published: August 2019

The present work is specifically directed to examine the volatility spillover mechanism in Indian commodity derivatives market. It has especially focused on comparing the agricultural and metal commodity segment by considering five agri-commodities and five metal commodities. The study period taken is 2010–2015 for understanding the mechanism between the spot and the futures commodity markets. Generalized impulse response function is mainly used to check the magnitude of volatility spill, pattern of volatility and lead–lag relationship. The result shows metal commodities are more prominent and investment worthy than agricultural commodities.
Events versus time in the perception of nonadjacent key relationships
Authors: Spyra Joanna , Stodolak Matthew , Woolhouse Matthew
Published: August 2019

Increasing the duration of an intervening key has a negative effect on memory for the original, nonadjacent key. Evidence suggests the recollection of a key only remains for 20 seconds after modulation to a new key section. But factors other than time might influence the perception of nonadjacent key relationships. By using a probe-cadence paradigm, this study tested whether time or the number of musical events (chords) determined the deterioration in memory of the global effect of nonadjacent keys. Stimuli were constructed in three parts: (a) a major key was established through a standard chord progression; (b) an intervening section, either 6 or 9 seconds in duration and formed from either four or six chords, was introduced in 12 possible keys; and (c) a short pause was followed by the probe cadence in the original key—that is, the key at (a). Fifty-one participants were asked to estimate the amount of harmonic closure they perceived at the probe cadence. Results confirmed previous findings of significant negative effects of time on the residual influence of the nonadjacent key. However, there were no significant effects of number of events. This provides evidence that it is the length of time, not the number of musical events in an intervening modulation that determines the recollection of the original key.
Effectiveness of a Dog-Assisted Therapy Program to Enhance Quality of Life in Institutionalized Dementia Patients
Authors: Briones María Ángeles , Pardo-García Isabel , Escribano-Sotos Francisco
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a dog-assisted therapy intervention to enhance quality of life in persons with dementia institutionalized in a public care home and to study its effect on the use of psychotropic medications. A dog-assisted therapy intervention was designed, in which 34 residents of a public care home in Cuenca (Spain) participated. The participants were assigned to two groups, an experimental and a control group. The program consisted of one 50-min session per week during 9 months. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare post-training values between groups, using baseline values as covariates. Our findings do seem to support the hypothesis that Animal-Assisted Therapy may contribute to enhancing quality of life for residents in an aged care home. However, aspects such as the format, time, and content of the sessions as well as their possibilities of reducing psychotropic medication require more research.
Diabetes-Related Emotional Distress among Children/Adolescents and Their Parents: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Toh Zhi Qi , Koh Serena Siew Lin , Lim Pei Kwee , Lim Joyce Soo Ting , Tam Wilson , Shorey Shefaly
Published: August 2019

Childhood diabetes is a rising concern as the overall annual increase in diabetes among children/adolescents is estimated to be around 3% over the past decade. Diabetes management places children/adolescents and their parents at greater risks of psychological distress. This study aims to measure the levels of diabetes-related emotional distress in children/adolescents with diabetes and their caregiving parents and to identify associations between sociodemographic characteristics and clinical variables in Singapore. A cross-sectional study was conducted using validated questionnaires. Ninety-two parent–child/adolescent dyads completed self-reported questionnaires. Elevated levels of diabetes-related distress were found in both children/adolescents with diabetes and their parents. Female children/adolescents with diabetes, low-income households, and less-educated parents of children/adolescents with diabetes were more susceptible to diabetes-related distress. It is important for healthcare professionals to educate less-educated parents in the management of their children’s/adolescents’ diabetes. Greater financial assistance should be provided to low-income households that may not have access to advanced diabetes treatments.
Short-term outcomes of the supine muscle-sparing anterolateral versus direct lateral approach to primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: George Nicole E , Gwam Chukwuweike U , Etcheson Jennifer I , Smith Spencer S , Semenistyy Anton A , Delanois Ronald E
Published: August 2019

Background:

Although total hip arthroplasty (THA) is among the most successful orthopaedic procedures, it is not without complications. As such, finding the optimal surgical approach has become an area of particular interest. In this study, we compare: (1) pain intensity; (2) opioid consumption; (3) lengths of stay (LOS); (4) complication rates; (5) discharge destination; and (6) ambulatory function between patients who underwent THA via the supine muscle-sparing anterolateral (MS-ALA) and conventional direct lateral (DLA) approaches.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 220 consecutive patients who received primary THA using the supine MS-ALA ( n = 101) or DLA ( n = 119) between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016. Outcomes included postoperative pain intensity, opioid consumption, LOS, discharge destination, complications, additional procedures, and time to independent ambulation.

Results:

We demonstrated significantly lower opioid consumption on postoperative days (POD) 1 and 2 (mean differences, −32.0 and −28.4 mg, respectively; p ⩽ 0.001) and decreased pain intensity during the second 24 hours of the hospital stay (mean difference, –22.0; p < 0.001) in patients receiving the MS-ALA. Relative to the DLA cohort, patients in the MS-ALA cohort were 2.04 times more likely to be discharged to home ( p = 0.028) and 1.91 times less likely to experience postoperative abductor insufficiency ( p = 0.039).

Conclusion:

The present study is the 1st to compare postoperative outcomes, particularly pain intensity and opioid consumption, between the supine muscle-sparing anterolateral and direct lateral THA approaches. Further research should investigate the effect of surgical approach on quality and cost of care, include larger sample sizes, and involve longer-term follow-up.