bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indices of social knowledge in Italian-speaking children: Relations between personal pronouns, verb conjugations and mental state language
Authors: Longobardi Emiddia , Spataro Pietro , Pecora Giulia , Bellagamba Francesca
Published: April 2019

This cross-sectional study investigated the use of four verbal indices of social knowledge (personal pronouns, verb conjugations, people words and mental state language) and their concurrent relations in a sample of 287 Italian-speaking children between 18 and 36 months. Results showed that the production of all indices increased with age. Mental state language (MSL) was positively associated to the use of personal pronouns and verb conjugations, suggesting that the difficulty in the acquisition of person-marking devices is partly due to social constraints. Moreover, both second- and third-person pronouns and verb conjugations were related to the acquisition of MSL, above and beyond the effects due to age and vocabulary. First-person references had no unique relation to MSL, after considering second- and third-person references. Lastly, the use of people words showed bidirectional associations with MSL, suggesting that the frequency of this category might be considered as an early verbal indicator of children’s social knowledge.
Hollywood’s Global Expansion and Racialized Film Industry
Authors: Kim Minjeong , Brunn-Bevel Rachelle J.
Published: April 2019

A theory on the political economy of image production argues that the U.S. film industry, namely, Hollywood, prioritizes financial considerations over racial justice or political correctness. Decisions made in the production and marketing processes are to minimize financial risks, but they often limit the representation of racial–ethnic minority filmmakers and actors. At the same time, Hollywood incorporates foreign-born directors and actors to reach international audiences. This article assesses how Hollywood’s “going global” impacts local racial–ethnic minority politics in the U.S. film business. As a part of a larger study examining the 100 top-grossing films in the United States from 1995 to 2014, we closely examine films where racial–ethnic minorities comprise the majority of the cast or films where minorities are the lead actors. We argue that the incorporation of foreign-born directors and actors undermines U.S. racial–ethnic minority filmmakers’ efforts to tell cinematic narratives from a critical perspective. Also, Hollywood fails to promote black films and black actors based on the assumption that they cannot appeal to international audiences, but our findings illustrate that black films directed by black directors perform well domestically and they show great potential with more support from Hollywood.
Generalizability of the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory Across Cultures and Languages: Italy and the United States
Authors: Ausili Davide , Barbaranelli Claudio , Riegel Barbara
Published: April 2019

Measuring self-care behaviors is crucial in diabetes research worldwide. Having a common measure of self-care represents an unmet need limiting the development of the science. The Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory was developed to address limitations of previous tools that were not theoretically grounded, strong in psychometrics, and clinically validated. However, the generalizability and comparability of the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory has not been tested across cultures and languages. The aim of this study was to test the invariance of the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory measurement model between Italy and the United States. Data from two multicenter cross-sectional studies were used. Two diabetes clinics and two hospitals in Italy and the United States were involved. We enrolled 200 adults in Italy and 226 in the United States, all with a confirmed diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory was used to measure self-care maintenance, monitoring, and management behaviors as described in the middle range theory of self-care of chronic illness. Configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariance were tested for each scale. Three of the four measurement equivalence levels were supported in the three Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory Scales, whereas strict invariance—the highest level—was reached only by the Self-Care Maintenance and Self-Care Monitoring Scales. Clear support for the use of the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory in diabetes research was provided. Cross-national comparisons of self-care between groups of Italian and U.S. patients are supported, based on the invariance of the measurement model. Aggregation of research data obtained using the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory across countries could support knowledge development in the field of diabetes self-care.
How to identify the roots of broad research topics and fields? The introduction of RPYS sampling using the example of climate change research
Authors: Haunschild Robin , Marx Werner , Thor Andreas , Bornmann Lutz
Published: April 2019

Since the introduction of the reference publication year spectroscopy (RPYS) method and the corresponding programme CRExplorer, many studies have been published revealing the historical roots of topics, fields and researchers. The application of the method was restricted up to now by the available memory of the computer used for running the CRExplorer. Thus, many users could not perform RPYS for broader research fields or topics. In this study, we present various sampling methods to solve this problem: random, systematic and cluster sampling. We introduce the script language of the CRExplorer that can be used to draw many samples from the population data set. Based on a large data set of publications from climate change research, we compare RPYS results using population data with RPYS results using different sampling techniques. From our comparison with the full RPYS (population spectrogram), we conclude that the cluster sampling performs worst and the systematic sampling performs best. The random sampling also performs very well but not as well as the systematic sampling. The study therefore demonstrates the fruitfulness of the sampling approach for applying RPYS.
Understanding data search as a socio-technical practice
Authors: Gregory Kathleen M , Cousijn Helena , Groth Paul , Scharnhorst Andrea , Wyatt Sally
Published: April 2019

Open research data are heralded as having the potential to increase effectiveness, productivity and reproducibility in science, but little is known about the actual practices involved in data search. The socio-technical problem of locating data for reuse is often reduced to the technological dimension of designing data search systems. We combine a bibliometric study of the current academic discourse around data search with interviews with data seekers. In this article, we explore how adopting a contextual, socio-technical perspective can help to understand user practices and behaviour and ultimately help to improve the design of data discovery systems.
Associations between training, employment, and motivational styles of Brazilian instrumental music teachers
Authors: Figueiredo Edson Antônio de Freitas
Published: April 2019

Teachers follow a motivational style based on their own beliefs about motivation affected by environmental events. External events such as rules and traditions often affect orientation towards controlling; however, it is not known if events such as training and employment affect the extent to which music teachers try to control a student’s behavior. The aim of the current study is to investigate associations between the motivational styles of instrumental music teachers, their training, and the type of employment they possess. A survey was conducted with 358 instrumental music teachers. Participants accessed an online questionnaire to provide information about their motivational style and to answer questions about their training and employment. Trained musicians recorded higher scores in the controlling factor than trained music educators. Similarly, teachers who worked in public music schools recorded higher scores in the controlling factor than the ones who worked in private music schools. Our study suggests that motivational literature should be part of the higher education curriculum, since it could help to improve behaviors that support autonomy in instrumental music lessons. The study also recommends making changes to the lifelong job positions that are acquired through public tenders in order to prevent teachers from disregarding the perspective of their students.
A Reconsideration of the Significance of the Death of Jesus Christ in the Context of Religious Plurality
Authors: Gaikwad Roger
Published: April 2019

This article explores the background of the document ‘Christian witness in a multi-religious world’ to ask how the significance of the death of Jesus Christ can be communicated in the context of religious plurality in India. Traditional approaches to the death of Christ are presented as well as dialogical approaches testing them against the recommendation of the document that Christian witness in a pluralistic world includes engaging in dialogue with people of different religions and cultures.
Carbon dioxide removal using low bicarbonate dialysis in rodents
Authors: Vu Lien H , Kellum John A , Federspiel William J , Cove Matthew E
Published: April 2019

Background:

Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal may be used to manage hypercapnia, but compared to dialysis, it’s not widely available. A recent in vitro study showed that dialysis with low bicarbonate dialysates removes CO2.

Objective:

To show that bicarbonate dialysis removes CO2 in an animal model to validate in-vitro findings and quantify the effect on arterial pH.

Methods:

Male Sprague-Dawley hypercapnic rats were dialyzed with either a conventional dialysate (PrismasolTM) or a bicarbonate-free dialysate (Bicarb0). The effect of dialysis on standard blood gases and electrolytes was measured.

Results:

Partial pressure of CO2 and bicarbonate concentration in blood decreased significantly after exposure to Bicarb0 compared to PrismasolTM (filter outflow values 12.8 vs 81.1 mmHg; p < 0.01 for CO2 and 3.5 vs 22.0 mmol/L; p < 0.01 for bicarbonate). Total CO2 content of blood was reduced by 459 mL/L during dialysis with Bicarb0 (filter inflow 546 ± 91 vs filter outflow 87 ± 52 mL/L; p < 0.01), but was not significantly reduced with PrismasolTM.

Conclusions:

Bicarbonate dialysis removes CO2 at rates comparable to existing low-flow ECCO2R.
The shifting burden of obesity: Changes in the distribution of obesity in China, 2010–2015
Authors: Zhou Min
Published: April 2019

This study examines the changes in the effects of income, education, and urban/rural residency on the risk of obesity within the Chinese society in recent years. Using pooled data from five waves of the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) between 2010 and 2015, it reveals significant shifts in the distribution of the obese population within the Chinese society. China is now at a critical point in the transition with respect to obesity. The positive income–obesity relationship is about to turn negative; the obesity-depressing effect of education continues to increase; and the urban–rural gap in obesity is soon to disappear and reverse. Consequently, individuals with lower income or less education and rural residents face increasingly higher risks of obesity over time. The distribution of obesity in today’s Chinese society increasingly mirrors and may aggravate existing social inequalities.
Effects of a language education intervention on social participation among emerging adults with autism
Authors: Akabogu Josephine , Nnamani Amuche , Otu Mkpoikanke Sunday , Uloh-Bethels Annah C. , Ukoha Evelyn , Iyekekpolor Olayinka M. , Omile Jacinta Chinwe , Obiezu Maureen Nnenna , Dike Anastasia E. , Ike Chioma Vivian
Published: April 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of a language education intervention (LEI) on social participation among emerging adults with autism.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial involved 86 emerging adults who had low social participation, as assessed by the Social Participation Questionnaire. Participants completed an LEI comprising cognitive, adaptive and rational thinking training to improve their ability to take part in social events. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyse the data.

Results

The results indicated a significant increase in social participation among emerging adults who were exposed to the LEI compared with their counterparts in a wait list control group.

Conclusion

Language and speech institutions and hospitals should adopt the LEI procedures discussed in this research to help their autistic patients increase their participation in social activities.
Hepatitis D reactivation in a patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma receiving sunitinib therapy
Authors: Akar Emre , Yücel Mehmet Haluk , Şahin Tunahan , Tural Deniz
Published: April 2019

Background:

Cytotoxic and immunosuppressive therapies for cancer treatment may allow hepatitis reactivation. Hepatitis due to viral hepatitis reactivation is detected in 14%–25% of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)–positive cancer patients undergoing anticancer treatments. Drug toxicity may be confused with hepatitis reactivation, which may cause a delay in diagnosis.

Case report:

A 60-year-old man with metastatic renal cell carcinoma was treated with sunitinib. Sixteen months after sunitinib inception, liver enzymes were elevated and viral hepatitis reactivation was detected as hepatitis delta virus infection in the HBsAg-positive patient.

Conclusion:

Cancer patients should be screened for viral hepatitis prior to immunosuppressive therapy or chemotherapy.
Mathematical modeling of viscoelastic material under impact load
Authors: Rabbi Md Fazlay , Chalivendra Vijaya B
Published: April 2019

A linear physics-based model is developed to investigate the one-dimensional impact on a viscoelastic material. A generalized model with three Maxwell elements is considered to describe the viscoelastic behavior. An analytical method based on Laplace transformation is used to solve the impact problem. To have a comprehensive understanding of viscoelastic material response, drop-weight impact is also considered in this study. For both linear impact and drop-weight cases, a maximum reduction of 15% of the impact force as well as 32% higher energy absorption can be achieved with the increase in tan δ from 0.01 to 0.8 of viscoelastic material. In addition, for linear impact, impact force decreases by 20% when tan δ = 1. With the increase in tan δ, storage modulus decreases by around 57% for maintaining a predetermined deformation. Moreover, for almost constant maximum displacement, materials with a higher storage modulus absorb more impact energy and experience higher impact force as compared to materials with a lower storage modulus.
Tissue engineering in periodontology: Biological mediators for periodontal regeneration
Authors: Carmagnola Daniela , Pellegrini Gaia , Dellavia Claudia , Rimondini Lia , Varoni Elena
Published: April 2019

Teeth and the periodontal tissues represent a highly specialized functional system. When periodontal disease occurs, the periodontal complex, composed by alveolar bone, root cementum, periodontal ligament, and gingiva, can be lost. Periodontal regenerative medicine aims at recovering damaged periodontal tissues and their functions by different means, including the interaction of bioactive molecules, cells, and scaffolds. The application of growth factors, in particular, into periodontal defects has shown encouraging effects, driving the wound healing toward the full, multi-tissue periodontal regeneration, in a precise temporal and spatial order. The aim of the present comprehensive review is to update the state of the art concerning tissue engineering in periodontology, focusing on biological mediators and gene therapy.
Testing the Effectiveness of Implementing a Model of Mental Healthcare Involving Trained Lay Health Workers in Treating Major Mental Disorders Among Youth in a Conflict-Ridden, Low-Middle Income Environment: Part II Results
Authors: Malla Ashok , Margoob Mushtaq , Iyer Srividya , Majid Abdul , Lal Shalini , Joober Ridha , Issaoui Mansouri Bilal
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

To report the outcomes of young people (aged 14-30 years) treated for major mental disorders in a lay health worker (LHW) intervention model in a rural district of conflict-ridden Kashmir, India.

Methods:

Over a 12-month follow-up, LHWs collected data on symptoms, functioning, quality of life and disability, and patients’ and families’ service engagement and satisfaction.

Results:

Forty trained LHWs (18 males and 22 females) identified 262 individuals who met the criteria for a diagnosis of a major mental disorder, connected them with specialists for treatment initiation (within 14 days), and provided follow-up and support to patients and families. Significantly more patients (14-30 years) were identified during the 14 months of the project than those in all age groups in the preceding 2 years. At 12 months, 205 patients (78%) remained engaged with the service and perceived it as very helpful. Repeated measures ANOVA showed significant improvements in scores on the global assessment of functioning (GAF) scale (F[df, 3.449] = 104.729, p < 0.001) and all 4 domains of the World Health Organization quality of life (WHOQOL) brief version (WHOQOL-BREF) of the survey—Physical F(df, 1.861) = 40.82; Psychological F(df, 1.845) = 55.490; Social F(df, 1.583) = 25.189; Environment F(df, 1.791) = 40.902, all ps < 0.001—and a decrease in disability (F[df, 1.806] = 4.364, p = 0.016). An interaction effect between time and sex was observed for the physical health domain of the WHOQOL-BREF.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Our results show that an LHW-based service model, implemented in a rural setting of a low-to-middle income region plagued by long-term conflict, benefits young people with major mental disorders. We discuss the implications of our findings in the context of similar environments and the challenges encountered.
Neighborhood Schools and Community Development: Revealing the Intersections through the Philadelphia School Closure Debate
Authors: Good Ryan M.
Published: April 2019

This article reveals intersections between schools and community development through analysis of a school closure debate in Philadelphia. Despite their interconnection, efforts to improve schools and neighborhoods have remained substantially siloed. Empirically, the article explores the ways neighborhood stakeholders framed the implications of recommended school closures in terms of the social, institutional, economic, and physical domains of their neighborhoods. The data include video records of community meetings held during the closure debate during winter 2012–2013 and subsequent interviews conducted with neighborhood stakeholders. The analysis outlines an agenda for community development scholars and practitioners to proactively engage with neighborhood schools.
Online niches of English-language newspapers in Bangladesh: Analyzing news stories and user engagement on Facebook
Authors: Yousuf Mohammad , Haque Md Mahfuzul , Islam Md Khadimul
Published: April 2019

This study examines the online niches of English-language newspapers in Bangladesh by analyzing stories and user engagement on the Facebook pages of five highest circulated newspapers. Based on the theory of the niche, this study analyzed data on 17,687 Facebook posts downloaded programmatically. Results indicate that users read these newspapers for in-depth news stories and features on diplomacy, national security, lifestyle, science, technology, and international events. The study identified a gap between what these newspapers offer and what their users want.
Australia’s new digital health record created ethical dilemmas
Authors: Duckett Stephen
Published: April 2019

The last few months of 2018 saw a major battle over privacy, autonomy and use of health information in Australia as the basis for the national electronic health record changed from an opt-in system to one where every person had such a record unless they specifically requested to opt-out of the system. The debate was messy, involving both ethical and wider political concerns, with the ethical concerns partly heightened because of the political context. Canadian health leaders can learn from the mistakes and successes of this situation.
Particle number size distribution from direct-injection premixed combustion engine fueled with gasoline/diesel blends
Authors: Wang Qiao , Sun Wanchen , Guo Liang , Fan Luyan , Cheng Peng , Li Guoliang , Du Jiakun
Published: April 2019

The organizing of combustion process in the advanced internal combustion engine is developing toward unified combustion mode of gasoline-engine-like premixed gas formation and diesel-engine-like compression ignition. Gasoline/diesel blended fuel has received extensive attention for its suitability for this combustion characteristic, owing to its relatively poor ignitability and high volatility. In order to more comprehensively evaluate the application of the blended fuel on this combustion mode, an experiment was conducted to characterize the particle size distribution and total number concentration of exhaust particles from the gasoline/diesel blended fuel. The premixed combustion characteristics and relatively high hydrocarbon emission were confirmed first and their effects on the particle size distribution were determined subsequently. Combustion control parameters such as exhaust gas recirculation and injection pressure were also taken into account. Results indicated that gasoline/diesel blended fuel had significant effect on the particle size distribution due to the higher premixed combustion ratio and more unburned hydrocarbon emission. Under high load condition, as the proportion of gasoline blending increased, the accumulation mode particle decreased while the nucleation mode particle and total particle number increased significantly. The geometric mean diameter of exhaust particle decreased with the addition of gasoline. The effect of exhaust gas recirculation and injection pressure on the particle size distribution of gasoline/diesel blended fuel was less than that of pure diesel. That meant the gasoline/diesel blends were beneficial for carbonaceous particle (>22 nm) reduction. However, the nucleation mode as well as total particle number were still higher for gasoline/diesel blends than that for pure diesel.
Vision-based autonomous landing of a quadrotor using a gimbaled camera
Authors: Jiang Tao , Lin Defu , Song Tao
Published: April 2019

This paper proposes a novel vision-based autonomous landing scheme for micro aerial vehicles with perturbations by using a gimbaled camera. There are no sensors available on the moving target in the task. The relative position between the drone and moving target is obtained by the camera mounted on a two-degree-of-freedom pan-tile platform. Firstly, the detection algorithm runs in real time and outputs the pixel tracking errors. Then, an adaptive vision-based controller for the pan-tilt platform guarantees that the line of sight of the camera always tracks the target. Next, the relative position tracking error is approximated according to the gimbal's rotation angles. Disturbance observer-based control is applied for flight control to attenuate the effect of disturbance and recover the hign tracking performance, where relative velocity and lumped disturbances are estimated by extend disturbance observers. The proposed flight controller guarantees that the tracking errors are ultimately bounded with tunable ultimate bounds. The convergence property is demonstrated through Lyapunov theory. The simulations and experiments illustrate the effectiveness and the superiority performance of the proposed control system.
Numerical assessment of a deformable trailing-edge flap on aerodynamic load control of a pitching S809 airfoil using OpenFOAM
Authors: Seyednia Mahbod , Masdari Mehran , Vakilipour Shidvash
Published: April 2019

Due to the unsteady nature of the flow around horizontal-axis wind turbines, the blades are subjected to severe unsteady and fatigue loads. This necessitates an in-depth aerodynamic analysis of flow control techniques to enhance the performance of a wind turbine as well as the lifetime of its components. Using OpenFOAM package in this study, a series of two-dimensional incompressible simulations are performed to present a deeper insight into the aerodynamic characteristics of an oscillating deformable trailing-edge flap, as a promising flow control device, in a sinusoidal pitching motion of an S809 airfoil. Herein, it is of particular interest to investigate the effects of deformable trailing-edge flap size, oscillation frequency, and the phase shift with reference to airfoil motion on lift and drag hysteresis loops. For this purpose, a pure-pitching motion of an S809 airfoil without flap deflection is considered as the benchmark problem in which the airfoil oscillates in the near-stall region at [Formula: see text]. After validation and verification of our simulations through comparison against the corresponding experimental and numerical work, a comprehensive investigation is conducted to study the effects of the aforementioned parameters on the aerodynamic loads. Our results reveal the fact that an out-of-phase deflection of the deformable trailing-edge flap with a frequency equal to the airfoil frequency can significantly mitigate the fatigue load. Under these circumstances, an increase in the deformable trailing-edge flap size can also help the airfoil experience less-severe loads in a cycle of motion. Furthermore, higher values of deformable trailing-edge flap frequency or other values of phase shift except the out-of-phase oscillation cannot alleviate fatigue loads. An airfoil under these conditions can, however, enhance the resultant load required for a blade rotation in the case of low wind periods.
Induction of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and ultrastructure alterations by silver nanoparticles attributing to placental transfer in pregnant rats and fetuses
Authors: Salim EI , Abdel-Halim KY , Abu-Risha SE , Abdel-Latif AS
Published: April 2019

A quantitative assessment of the genotoxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) ascribed to its transplacental transfer and tissue distribution in pregnant rats was carried out in this study. A single intravenous (i.v.) injection of AgNPs with a size range from 4.0 to 17.0 nm was administered to pregnant rats at a dose of 2 mg/kg b.w. on the 19th day of gestation. Five groups beside control, each of the five rats were euthanized after 10 min, 1, 6, 12, or 24 h, respectively. The accumulation of nanoparticles (NPs) in mother and fetal tissues was quantified by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, where the highest accumulation level was recorded in maternal blood (0.523 µg/ml) after 24 h of administration. AgNPs induced accumulation in spleen tissue higher than placenta and fetal tissue homogenates. The data showed significantly detected levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine in all collected samples from administered animals compared with untreated individuals. Level of 8-OHdG in amniotic fluid exhibited the greatest values followed by maternal spleen, kidneys, and liver, respectively. Investigation by transmission electron microscope showed that the transfer of AgNPs through placental wall caused indentation of nuclei, clumped chromatin, pyknotic nuclei, and focal necrotic areas, while AgNPs appeared mainly accumulated in the macrophages of the spleen. Therefore, the data assume that the genotoxicity studies of AgNPs must be recommended during a comprehensive assessment of the safety of novel types of NPs and nanomaterials. Additionally, exposure to AgNPs must be prevented or minimized during pregnancy or prenatal periods.
DNA damage and methylation induced by organophosphate flame retardants: Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate and tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Bukowski Karol , Wysokinski Daniel , Mokra Katarzyna , Wozniak Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

Phosphorus flame retardants are a group of chemicals that are used to slow or prevent the spread of fire. These compounds have been detected in different environments including human organism. In the present study, we have investigated DNA-damaging potential and effect on DNA methylation of tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) and tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In order to determine DNA damage and repair, the alkaline and neutral versions of the comet assay were used. The level of DNA methylation was determined with specific antibodies against methylated DNA. PBMCs were exposed to TCEP and TCPP at the concentrations in the range of 1–1000 µM for 24 h. We have observed that TCEP and TCPP induced DNA damage—DNA breaks and alkali-labile sites. All DNA damages were effectively repaired during 120-min repair incubation. The results have also shown that TCEP and TCPP decreased the level of DNA methylation in PBMCs. In the case of TCEP, this effect was observed at a very low concentration of 1 µM.
Redefining Visual Working Memory: A Cognitive-Strategy, Brain-Region Approach
Authors: Pearson Joel , Keogh Rebecca
Published: April 2019

The ability to remember and manipulate visual information is pervasive and is associated with many cognitive abilities. Yet despite the importance of visual working memory (VWM), there is little consensus among researchers in the field as to which neural areas are necessary and sufficient and which models best describe its capacity. Here, we propose that an assumption that all people remember visual information in the same way has led to much contention and inconsistencies in the field. By accepting that there are multiple cognitive strategies and methods to perform a VWM task, we introduce an individual “precision” approach to the study of memory. We propose that VWM should be redefined, not by the type of stimuli used (e.g., visual) but rather by the specific mental processes (e.g., visual imagery, semantic, propositional, spatial) and the corresponding brain regions used to complete the mnemonic task. We further provide a short how-to guide for measuring different mnemonic strategies used for working memory.
Bangladesh–Nepal Trade Relations: Understanding the Influence of Economic Diplomacy
Authors: Ahmed Bashir , Islam Mohammad Tarikul
Published: April 2019

Economic diplomacy is one of the most important means through which governments comprehend their national interests. Bangladesh–Nepal bilateral relations, featuring equal and sincere treatment, mutual support and friendship for generations, can be an example for relations between two countries. Nepal’s relationship with Bangladesh is unique. The relations have improved and the major stake in the relationship lies in strengthening the border areas and in improving people-to-people contact and furthering economic relations and trade. Economic and commercial relations between Nepal and Bangladesh have been growing steadily over the years. However, the volume of bilateral trade has not seen much improvement despite tremendous potentials for expanding and diversifying trade between the two countries. Attaching importance to the influence of economic diplomacy, Bangladesh Government has to focus on convincing people, even some of its neighbors, as well as South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) framework of SAARC that Bangladesh offers excellent investment opportunities and that the overall investment climate is conducive to foreign investment. Economic diplomacy of Bangladesh should go beyond political relations and help pave a way for globalization. Nepal and Bangladesh have to keep friendly relations with India because of their similar cultural and religious traditions and geographical attachment.
Voices From the Desk: The Big Ideas of Gifted Students About Collaborative Partnership
Authors: Farah Yara N. , Jimenez Lauren M.
Published: April 2019

Students are active in shaping the implementation of any curricular intervention. At Paradise Valley Unified School District (PVUSD), more than 1,500 students in Grades 1 to 6 were recipients of the William & Mary English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum units. In this article, we share students’ perceptions related to the following three themes: (a) perception of researchers in the classroom, (b) perceptions of new curriculum, and (c) receptivity to the teaching models. Students’ responses revealed that they had much to say about the work being conducted at PVUSD. Gaining an understanding of students’ perception of curriculum could lead to stronger curricular reform in the future, especially when outcomes of school reform are measured by the success of students.
The Honors Project Takes Shape: One Student’s Reflections on Being Gifted
Authors: Brunicardi Jade , Shaunessy-Dedrick Elizabeth
Published: April 2019

In this article, an honors college student reflects on being gifted. In reflecting on her giftedness, she expresses her conceptions of various characteristics of giftedness that she has experienced through drawing. These drawings and associated captions are featured in this text, and the student discusses her process of experiencing the characteristics and developing the artworks. One of her honors thesis committee members provides connections to the literature for each of the issues the student discusses.
Short-term anterior chamber inflammation in phacoemulsification with and without Ex-Press glaucoma implant
Authors: Graffi Shmuel , Tiosano Beatrice , Naftali Modi , Nakhoul Nakhoul , Mimouni Michael , Hanna Rana , Gaton Dan D
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of clinically significant anterior chamber inflammation in a combined surgery, namely, phacoemulsification and Ex-Press miniature glaucoma device implantation, compared to phacoemulsification alone.

Methods:

A retrospective comparative study of a consecutive series of 210 participants above 18 years of age diagnosed with significant cataract and who required glaucoma surgery, namely, Ex-Press miniature glaucoma device implantation or cataract alone in one or both eyes. All were operated on by a single experienced glaucoma surgeon in a single medical center. A total of 231 eyes were included in this study. All cases underwent an uneventful surgery and were examined the day following the surgery for visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and signs of excessive anterior chamber inflammation (Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature grading ⩾ 3).

Results:

The combined group included 55 eyes of 51 patients, of whom 15 (27.3%) demonstrated excessive anterior chamber inflammation. The phacoemulsification group included 176 eyes of 159 patients, of whom 12 (6.7%) demonstrated excessive anterior chamber inflammation. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure measurements showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The Ex-Press glaucoma device is efficient, safe, and known for its inert nature. However, combination of this procedure with phacoemulsification surgery might result in a condition encouraging excessive inflammation, which eventually could lead to excessive anterior chamber inflammations if not treated vigorously. Emphasizing and recognizing the risks, especially in glaucoma patients, is important.
Impairment of Mitochondrial-Nuclear Cross Talk in Lymphocytes Exposed to Landfill Leachate
Authors: Gupta Priyal , Bhargava Arpit , Kumari Roshani , Lodhi Lalit , Tiwari Rajnarayan , Gupta Pushpendra Kumar , Bunkar Neha , Samarth Ravindra , Mishra Pradyumna Kumar
Published: April 2019

Landfill leachate, a complex mixture of different solid waste compounds, is widely known to possess toxic properties. However, the fundamental molecular mechanisms engaged with landfill leachate exposure inducing cellular and sub-cellular ramifications are not well explicated. Therefore, we aim to examine the potential of leachate to impair mitochondrial machinery and its associated mechanisms in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. On assessment, the significant increase in the dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence, accumulation of 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG), and levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf-2) strongly indicated the ability of the leachate to induce a pro-oxidant state inside the cell. The decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and alterations in the mitochondrial genome observed in leachate-exposed cells further suggested the disturbances in mitochondrial machinery. Moreover, these mitochondrial-associated redox imbalances were accompanied by the increased level of NF-κβ, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and DNA damage. In addition, the higher DNA fragmentation, release of nucleosomes, levels of polyadenosine diphosphate ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), and activity of caspase-3 suggested the involvement of mitochondrial mediated apoptosis in leachate exposed cells. These observations were accompanied by the low proliferative index of the exposed cells. Conclusively, our results clearly indicate the ability of landfill leachate to disturb mitochondrial redox homeostasis, which might be a probable source for the immunotoxic consequences leading to plausible patho-physiological conditions in humans susceptible to such environmental exposures.
De Novo Duplication in the CHD7 Gene Associated With Severe CHARGE Syndrome
Authors: Pranckėnienė Laura , Preikšaitienė Eglė , Gueneau Lucie , Reymond Alexandre , Kučinskas Vaidutis
Published: April 2019

CHARGE syndrome is an autosomal dominant developmental disorder associated with a constellation of traits involving almost every organ and sensory system, in particular congenital anomalies, including choanal atresia and malformations of the heart, inner ear, and retina. Variants in CHD7 have been shown to cause CHARGE syndrome. Here, we report the identification of a novel de novo p.Asp2119_Pro2120ins6 duplication variant in a conserved region of CHD7 in a severely affected boy presenting with 3 and 5 of the CHARGE cardinal major and minor signs, respectively, combined with congenital umbilical hernia, congenital hernia at the linea alba, mildly hypoplastic inferior vermis, slight dilatation of the lateral ventricles, prominent metopic ridge, and hypoglycemic episodes.
Opioids, Pain Management, and Palliative Care in a Norwegian Nursing Home From 2013 to 2018
Authors: Wergeland Sørbye Liv , Steindal Simen A , Kalfoss Mary H , Vibe Olaug E
Published: April 2019

In Norway, approximately 50% of older people die in nursing homes (NH). Holistic care and pharmacological management are key factors in quality at the end of life. The purpose of this longitudinal study was to describe the use of opioids in an NH during a 5-year period. We focused on palliative care, symptoms, and suffering during the last 3 days before death. Data were collected from spring 2013 to spring 2018. We used the interRAI assessment instrument annually and when the resident died. We conducted a semi-structured interview with nurses on duty at the deathbed. At the time of death, the residents had an average age of 88.9 years and an average stay of 2.9 years (N = 100). At the first assessment, 19% of the residents used 1 or more type of opioids. On the day of death, 55% had an active prescription for opioids, mainly as subcutaneous injections. The results illustrate the different uses of opioids, including managing pain, dyspnoea, sedation, for comfort, as a prophylaxis, or a combination of reasons. Cancer- and cardiovascular diagnoses were the strongest predictor for using morphine ( P < 0.05). Identification of the residents’ needs for opioids is a challenge for palliative care nurses, both ethically and legally.
A discussion of Arana, A., Larrañaga, J., & Ulacia, I. (2019). Partial EHL friction coefficient model to predict power losses in cylindrical gears. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part J: Journal of Engineering Tribology, Vol. 233(2) 303–316
Authors: Bair Scott
Published: April 2019

There is presently a heated debate within the field of elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL). Some have attributed this to a controversy regarding the shear dependence of viscosity. However, the real nature of the debate is, as it has been for more than 40 years, whether or not to correctly describe the piezoviscous effect. If real pressure dependence of viscosity were to be employed in all EHL analyses, then the true nature of shear dependence would become apparent and the debate would end.
Residual stresses and wear properties of induction-hardened medium carbon steel
Authors: Liu QC , Cao YJ , Sun JQ , He QK , Tan YL , Li BM , Xie K
Published: April 2019

A systematic experimental investigation was performed to study the residual stress, microstructure and work hardening on the wear properties of induction-hardened medium carbon steel. The dry sliding wear tests were performed using a reciprocating ball-on-flat apparatus under normal loads of 20, 50, and 100 N against ceramic ball counterface, respectively. The wear mechanism was mainly abrasive wear at low load (20 N) and delamination wear at higher load (100 N) as evidenced by the worn surface topography and wear debris. The deformation layer generated by friction work hardening reduced the friction coefficient, exhibited better antifriction. Typically, the high compressive residual stress could improve the wear resistance by delaying the propagation of microcrack and inhibiting the delamination.
Cultural Context in DSM Diagnosis: An American Indian Case Illustration of Contradictory Trends
Authors: Langa Melanie E. , Gone Joseph P.
Published: April 2019

Recent revisions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM) increasingly acknowledge the importance of cultural context for the diagnosis of mental illness. However, these same revisions include evolving diagnostic criteria that simultaneously decontextualize particular disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As a result, the DSM reflects a contradictory role for context in psychiatric diagnosis. The case analysis presented here frames the consequences of this contradictory trend for an American Indian woman with a history of DSM-IV MDD and PTSD, whose diagnostic portrait is substantively altered in light of more recent DSM-5 criteria. Specifically, consideration of this respondent’s bereavement-related illness experience suggests that a sociocentric cultural frame of reference, which places high value on interdependent personal relationships, is not well-captured by DSM-5’s revised MDD or PTSD criteria, or the newly proposed categories of traumatic bereavement or Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder. The respondent’s illness experience argues for greater recognition of this contradictory diagnostic trend, suggesting a need for future resolution of this tension toward more valid diagnosis for culturally diverse populations.
From homo sacer to homo dolorosus: Biopower and the politics of suffering
Authors: Wells Charles
Published: April 2019

This article argues that the indefinite detention and torture of prisoners at the Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp and the intentional destabilization of Palestinian civilian life in the Israeli occupied Palestinian territories are indicative of the emergence of a new postmodern form of power. Coining the term homo dolorosus – the man who is available to be made to suffer – this article seeks to understand this emergent politics of suffering through a historicized reading of Foucault’s typology of power, informed by the work of Giorgio Agamben. It is argued that, just as discipline was the dark inverse of the modern utopian Enlightenment project of universal democratic inclusion, the politics of suffering is the dark inverse of the postmodern biopolitical project of security. Using the work of Mikkel Joronen, Jasbir Puar and Lauren Wilcox as signposts, this article argues that homo dolorosus is produced by power’s encounter with a population that it perceives or represents as simultaneously risky and dependent. Moreover, it is suggested that homo dolorosus may be the manifestation of a project that aims to do away with freely-deciding subjectivity while keeping the human body alive.
Assessing the appetite for evidence based policing: A UK based study
Authors: Palmer Ian , Kirby Stuart , Coleman Rebecca
Published: April 2019

Although evidence-based policing (EBP) has emerged in Europe, Australasia and the Americas, its level of implementation has received little scrutiny. Using a questionnaire completed by 625 police staff employed by a major UK police force, this study examines how police employees both view and use evidence-based practice. The study found that although the term EBP was recognized widely, its use was less apparent. The findings specifically distinguished lower ranked officers from senior police officers, and discriminated between warranted (sworn) officers and non-warranted (unsworn) civilian staff. It showed that lower ranking officers (constables) were more likely to value experience over academic evidence and collaboration, whereas senior ranks were much more likely to embrace EBP principles. Further, civilian staff were less likely to view new ideas as a ‘fad’ and be more open to research experimentation and evaluation, albeit they had fewer internal avenues to pursue professional development. In summary, it is argued that to develop an environment in which EBP can thrive, explicit implementation plans that consider issues such as organizational culture, are helpful.
Speaking welcome: A discursive analysis of an immigrant mentorship event in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Allain Kristi A , Crath Rory , Çalışkan Gül
Published: April 2019

This article offers an analysis of a business mentorship event in Fredericton, NB, which targeted immigrants sponsored through the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)—an economic revitalization program designed to attract foreign business people and skilled workers to settle in the province. Applying Derrida’s concept of hospitality as a technology of whiteness, we examine the stated and implicitly understood expectations for the NBPNP, including the mechanisms at play for regulating newcomer’s behavior and comportment. We locate our analysis in the context of a regionally expressed Canadian multiculturalism, extending the relevance of our findings beyond Fredericton to Atlantic Canada. We ask: how do associated discourses of whiteness, multiculturalism and hospitality come into play to shape dynamics of power existing between hosts (settlement workers, various shadow state actors and mentor volunteers) and racialized newcomer guests? As a racialized threshold event, the Sip, Greet and Meet facilitated an exchange of hospitality such that the New Brunswick native hosts marked newcomers as perpetual arrivants, while holding the immigrants responsible for the success of their settlement in the Fredericton region. We show how the discourses regarding newcomers’ duties cleared nativist inhabitants of any accountability for the success of immigrant settlement. We also show how the process of welcoming conveyed a message that the future success of the local community, the province and even Atlantic Canada depended on the business class immigrants’ ability to serve as dutiful and grateful guests.