bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Shape Feature Recognition of B-Rep Model Based on Wavelet Transform
Authors: Wang Jihua
Published: July 2018

B-Rep (Boundary Representation) CAD model is widely used in the representation of manufactured product in computer, and it is a kind of real 3D structure with invisible part relative to 2.5D mesh model, so the shape feature recognition of B-Rep model is worth of much studying. We present one approach of shape feature recognition of B-Rep model based on the wavelet transform of surface boundary and region; it is inspired by the neuropsychology view that surface is the key visual features and by the systematology method that an object is recognized by decomposing and grouping its similar parts. Surface elements of B-Rep model are extracted from the neutral STEP (Standard for Exchange of Product Model Data) file; the curvatures of surface boundary and region were decomposed by wavelet transform, and then the coefficient statistics of same scale were as the surface feature vector. Similar surfaces of B-Rep model were clustered as a bin with the sum of perimeters and the mean vector, and all bins constituting a histogram are finally as the feature vector of B-Rep model. Thus B-Rep models are compared and retrieved using the EMD (Earth Mover’s Distance) of histogram. Our approach was evaluated by retrieval experiment with NDR (National Design Reservoir), and the result indicated its highly competent performance.
Tea Garden Lateritic Soil as a High-Temperature Desulfurization Sorbent: Effect of Oxygen on Regeneration Process
Authors: Ko Tzu-Hsing , Chu Chen-Yao
Published: July 2018

The lateritic soils collected from a tea garden were used to explore the regeneration process using different O2 contents for high-temperature desulfurization. The desulfurization and regeneration experiments were carried out using a fixed-bed reactor at 500°C and the gaseous mixture composed of 1% H2S, 25% CO, 15% H2, and balance N2 for the desulfurization process. Experimental results showed that the regenerability is better when the air was used as a regeneration gas and the regeneration time is shortened. Multiple regeneration experiments indicated that lateritic soils can be regenerated by passing air and can thus be reused many times and its regeneration efficiency is slightly better than that regenerated by 1% O2. The sulfur capacity after air desulfurization/regeneration cycles was examined by elemental analysis with a value ranging from 1.40% to 1.49%, and residual sulfur was detected with a value of 0.12% after the diluted 1% O2 regeneration. No sulfur was detected for the regenerated lateritic soil after air regeneration. From NMR structural identification, the 6-coordinated octahedral structure of Al and trioctahedral coordinated Si are the major Al-containing and Si-containing compounds. Broad shoulder peaks were detected after regeneration process that may be associated with the formation of aluminosilicate and further reduces the dispersion of iron on the surface of lateritic soils.
Müllerian Agenesis Masquerading as Secondary Amenorrhea
Authors: Tavera Gloria , Lazebnik Rina
Published: July 2018

The most common cause of primary amenorrhea is congenital malformation of the Müllerian ducts, including Müllerian agenesis, also known as Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome (MRKH). Most general gynecologists and primary care physicians who see female adolescents will encounter MRKH in their careers. We present the case of an adolescent with MRKH who reported secondary, instead of primary amenorrhea. We discuss the subtleties of diagnosing MRKH, especially when patient history may not always be accurate. Because MRKH had not been included in the differential diagnosis for delayed menses, this patient was initially misdiagnosed. Delayed diagnosis of MRKH may harm patients by delaying assessment of concomitant renal, skeletal, hearing, and cardiac defects, which might otherwise impact the treatment plan.
Influence of Early Age on the Wave Velocity and Dynamic Compressive Strength of Concrete Based on Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar Tests
Authors: Wang Shiming , Dong Longjun , Zhou Jian
Published: July 2018

The effect of early age on the mechanical properties of concrete was investigated in this study. A uniaxial compression test was performed on split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) equipment with a large diameter of 75 mm. The experimental results indicated that before 7 days, concrete showed viscoelasticity and had good deformation ability and low sensitivity to incident energy. In addition, the concrete exhibited the characteristics of quasi‐brittle materials, and the sensitivity of the incident energy improved with age. The threshold value of the incident energy at early ages had an insignificant effect on the stable age concrete. The threshold value was 50% of the corresponding age’s critical incident energy, while it was 75% after 7 days.
Hybrid Filtered‐x Adaptive Vibration Control with Internal Feedback and Online Identification
Authors: Yang Lihua , Liu Shuyong , Zhang Haipeng , Wu Haiping , Li Haifeng , Jiang Jian
Published: July 2018

Active control is an effective way to suppress low‐frequency mechanical vibration. However, with applications to submarine equipment, there are still some shortcomings due to vibration coupling and multifrequency complex excitation. In this paper, a novel hybrid improved adaptive control strategy, feedback and online identification filtered‐x LMS, namely, FOFxlms, is proposed, which introduces the residual errors to correct variable step‐size, uses the estimated primary path to improve online identification, and applies internal feedback to compensate for the feedforward control. Then the FOFxlms algorithm is applied to a double‐layer vibration isolation system of submarine rotating equipment, and the simulation results show that the normalized variable step‐size with residual error can effectively improve convergence speed, the internal feedback can efficaciously compensate for steady‐state control accuracy, and the online identification can dynamically identify the time‐varying characteristics of the secondary path. The vibration reduction efficiency of Fxlms, FFxlms, and FOFxlms increases for the fundamental frequency vibration; the control effect and convergence speed are also enhanced in turn.
Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Gastric Cancer Growth via Regulating c-Myc
Authors: Chen Bin , Yu Jing , Wang Qianqian , Zhao Yuanyuan , Sun Li , Xu Changgen , Zhao Xiangdong , Shen Bo , Wang Mei , Xu Wenrong , Zhu Wei
Published: July 2018

The clinical application of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) has generated a great deal of interest because of their potential use in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. However, safety concerns over hBM-MSCs limit their clinical application. In this study, we observed that hBM-MSC-conditioned medium (hBM-MSC-CM) promotes gastric cancer development via upregulation of c-Myc. Our results showed that c-Myc was upregulated in MGC-803 and BGC-823 cells after hBM-MSC-CM treatment. Moreover, we found that the c-Myc inhibitor JQ1 and c-Myc siRNA decreased the expression of c-Myc in hBM-MSC-CM-treated tumor cells in vitro. Additionally, hBM-MSC-CM enhanced the migration and glucose uptake of gastric cancer cells. In vivo studies showed that JQ1 inhibited hBM-MSC-CM-induced gastric cancer growth. These results indicated that hBM-MSC-CM induced gastric cancer growth via upregulation of c-Myc, which may be a potential risk factor and/or a therapeutic target for clinical applications.
Comparative Cytogenetics of Omophoita abbreviata and O. aequinoctialis (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Alticini) from the Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve in Brazilian Amazonia: Intrapopulation Variation in Karyotypes
Authors: Goll Leonardo G. , Artoni Roberto F. , Gross Maria C. , Mello Lucas R.A. , Coelho Maria P.B. , Almeida Mara C. , Schneider Carlos H.
Published: July 2018

The chromosomes of 2 flea beetle species from central Amazonia, Omophoita abbreviata and O. aequinoctialis (Alticini), were investigated through analysis of meiotic and mitotic cells. These species belong to the subtribe Oedionychina, a taxon that has unique cytogenetic features, such as giant sex chromosomes which are aligned at a distance during meiosis I (asynaptic). O. abbreviata and O. aequinoctialis have a meiotic formula of 10II + X + y, which is predominant in this subtribe. While the species of the genus Omophoita possess a relatively stable karyotype, a typical feature for Oedionychina, the present study identified inter- and intrapopulational variation in chromosome morphology, constitutive heterochromatin, and the presence and number of B chromosomes in O. aequinoctialis. In addition, FISH mapping of telomeric sequences revealed signals in the collochores, raising several questions on the chromosomal evolution in this group.
Identification of the C-Reactive Protein Interaction Network Using a Bioinformatics Approach Provides Insights into the Molecular Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: She Sha , Jiang Lingyu , Zhang Zhenfang , Yang Min , Hu Huaidong , Hu Peng , Liao Yong , Yang Yixuan , Ren Hong
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: C reactive protein (CRP) levels are elevated in many diseases, including malignant tumors and cardiovascular disorders. In this study, the protein interaction network for CRP was evaluated to determine the importance of CRP and its interacting proteins in the molecular pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) and mass spectrometry were used to identify CRP interacting proteins in SMMC7721 cells. Moreover, Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to evaluate enriched genes and pathways for differentially expressed genes using DAVID and WebGestalt. Co-immunoprecipitation and western blot analyses were employed to assess interactions between CRP and KRT8, ANXA2, ENO2, and HSP90B1. Results: In total, 52 proteins that interact with CRP were identified. A GO analysis suggested that most of the interacting proteins were involved in CRP complexes and regulated metabolic processes. A KEGG pathway analysis suggested that most CRP-interacting proteins contribute to the TRAIL signaling pathway, Class I PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, plasma membrane estrogen receptor signaling, Nectin adhesion pathway, and S1P1 pathway. Immunoprecipitation and western blot analyses revealed interactions between CRP and KRT8, ANXA2, ENO2, and HSP90B1. Conclusions: iTRAQ based proteomic profiling revealed the network of CRP interacting proteins. This network may activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of HCC.
Glossário de palavras portuguesas sufixadas em -mento
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas, Freitas Érica Santos Soares de
Published: July 2018

Desenvolveu-se um Glossário de palavras portuguesas sufixadas em-mento para compor parte de um futuro dicionário etimológico da Língua Portuguesa, em elaboração do Núcleo de Apoio à Pesquisa em Etimologia e História da Língua Portuguesa - NEHiLP, núcleo vinculado à Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa da USP, sob a coordenação do Prof. Dr. Mário Eduardo Viaro. O trabalho se pautou em textos escritos e registros orais coletados pela autora sob uma perspectiva etimológica, histórica e linguística. O objetivo desse projeto foi elaborar um glossário de palavras portuguesas sufixadas em-mento, com 2.918 entradas, em cuja microestrutura contém a data mais antiga encontrada (data de sua criação ou de sua inserção por meio de empréstimo), sua etimologia, sua abonação e indicação da fonte pesquisada (com sua localização), para colaborar com a composição do futuro Dicionário Etimológico da Língua Portuguesa (DELPo).
The Neural Correlates of Relational Reasoning: A Meta-analysis of 47 Functional Magnetic Resonance Studies
Authors: Wertheim Julia , Ragni Marco
Published: July 2018

It is a core cognitive ability of humans to represent and reason about relational information, such as “the train station is north of the hotel” or “Charles is richer than Jim.” However, the neural processes underlying the ability to draw conclusions about relations are still not sufficiently understood. Central open questions are as follows: (1) What are the neural correlates of relational reasoning? (2) Where can deductive and inductive reasoning be localized? (3) What is the impact of different informational types on cerebral activity? For that, we conducted a meta-analysis of 47 neuroimaging studies. We found activation of the frontoparietal network during both deductive and inductive reasoning, with additional activation in an extended network during inductive reasoning in the basal ganglia and the inferior parietal cortex. Analyses revealed a double dissociation concerning the lateral and medial Brodmann's area 6 during deductive and inductive reasoning, indicating differences in terms of processing verbal information in deductive and spatial information in inductive tasks. During semantic and symbolic tasks, the frontoparietal network was found active, whereas geometric tasks only elicited prefrontal activation, which can be explained by the reduced demand for the construction of a mental representation in geometric tasks. Our study provides new insights into the cognitive mechanisms underlying relational reasoning and clarifies previous controversies concerning involved brain areas.
Neuropsychology of Human Body Parts: Exploring Categorical Boundaries of Tactile Perception Using Somatosensory Mismatch Responses
Authors: Shen Guannan , Smyk Nathan J. , Meltzoff Andrew N. , Marshall Peter J.
Published: July 2018

The focus of the current study is on a particular aspect of tactile perception: categorical segmentation on the body surface into discrete body parts. The MMN has been shown to be sensitive to categorical boundaries and language experience in the auditory modality. Here we recorded the somatosensory MMN (sMMN) using two tactile oddball protocols and compared sMMN amplitudes elicited by within- and across-boundary oddball pairs. Both protocols employed the identity MMN method that controls for responsivity at each body location. In the first protocol, we investigated the categorical segmentation of tactile space at the wrist by presenting pairs of tactile oddball stimuli across equal spatial distances, either across the wrist or within the forearm. Amplitude of the sMMN elicited by stimuli presented across the wrist boundary was significantly greater than for stimuli presented within the forearm, suggesting a categorical effect at an early stage of somatosensory processing. The second protocol was designed to investigate the generality of this MMN effect, and involved three digits on one hand. Amplitude of the sMMN elicited by a contrast of the third digit and the thumb was significantly larger than a contrast between the third and fifth digits, suggesting a functional boundary effect that may derive from the way that objects are typically grasped. These findings demonstrate that the sMMN is a useful index of processing of somatosensory spatial discrimination that can be used to study body part categories.
Sulu-Sulawesi Seas Patrol: Lessons from the Malacca Straits Patrol and Other Similar Cooperative Frameworks
Authors: Ikrami Hadyu
Published: July 2018

On 19 June 2017, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines launched the Sulu-Sulawesi Seas Patrol (SSSP), a framework of maritime security cooperation aimed at protecting the Sulu Sea and Sulawesi (Celebes) Sea from maritime crimes. The three nations had announced that their cooperation might be modelled on the Malacca Straits Patrol (MSP), a similar form of cooperation between Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand to safeguard the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This article primarily compares both cooperative frameworks, and argues that the SSSP should be modelled on the MSP, subject to certain conditions. Where there are insufficient best practices in the MSP, this article contrasts the SSSP with other similar cooperative frameworks, including the Combined Maritime Forces and the ECOWAS Integrated Maritime Strategy. In addition, this article also discusses the relationship between the SSSP and MSP on one hand, and the ASEAN maritime security mechanisms on the other hand.
The Financial Situation of Jewish Students in the Russian Empire in the Early Twentieth Century (Based Principally on Census Data from Ukraine)
Authors: Krugliak Maryna
Published: July 2018

The article defines the characteristics of the material situation of Jewish students enrolled in the higher educational institutions of the Russian Empire, using Ukraine, whose territory was part of Russia, as an example. The author shows the attitudes of the Russian authorities toward the so-called ‘Jewish question,’ illustrates the restrictions faced by Jews when entering higher educational institutions and during training. The monthly and annual budgets of Jewish students and analysis of such data by comparison with Christian students’ budgets are presented. Proof is offered that the magnitude of the Jewish student budgets to cover daily living expenses was greater than that of their Christian counterparts. The article seeks to describe and compare the living conditions of Jewish students (housing, nutrition, health situation) with conditions faced by other students in the Russian Empire.
Three new species of Sisyrinchium (Iridaceae) from Campos of South America
Authors: INÁCIO CAMILA DELLANHESE , CHAUVEAU OLIVIER , EGGERS LILIAN
Published: July 2018

Species of Sisyrinchium from Southern Brazil represent 31% and 86% of the genus diversity throughout the Americas and the Brazilian territory, respectively. However, new species are still being discovered and three are presented here: S. pampeanum, from the Pampa Biome and S. diversicarpum and S. sectiandrum, from the Atlantic Forest Biome. The taxa are described, illustrated and taxonomic comments, conservation status and comparisons with related species are provided.
Restratification of Abyssal Mixing Layers by Submesoscale Baroclinic Eddies
Authors: Callies Jörn
Published: July 2018

For small-scale turbulence to achieve water mass transformation and thus affect the large-scale overturning circulation, it must occur in stratified water. Observations show that abyssal turbulence is strongly enhanced in the bottom few hundred meters in regions with rough topography, and it is thought that these abyssal mixing layers are crucial for closing and shaping the overturning circulation. If it were left unopposed, however, bottom-intensified turbulence would mix away the observed mixing-layer stratification over the course of a few years. It is proposed here that the homogenizing tendency of mixing may be balanced by baroclinic restratification. It is shown that bottom-intensified mixing, if it occurs on a large-scale topographic slope such as a midocean ridge flank, not only erodes stratification but also tilts isopycnals in the bottom few hundred meters. This tilting of isopycnals generates a reservoir of potential energy that can be tapped into by submesoscale baroclinic eddies. The eddies slide dense water under light water and thus restratify the mixing layer, similar to what happens in the surface mixed layer. This restratification is shown to be effective enough to balance the homogenizing tendency of mixing and to maintain the observed mixing-layer stratification. This suggests that submesoscale baroclinic eddies may play a crucial role in providing the stratification mixing can act on, thus allowing sustained water mass transformation. Through their restratification of abyssal mixing layers, submesoscale eddies may therefore directly affect the strength and structure of the abyssal overturning circulation.
Overcoming Barriers to Tiny and Small Home Urban Integration: A Comparative Case Study in the Carolinas
Authors: Evans Krista
Published: July 2018

Although interest in tiny and small house living continues to grow, proponents of downsized living face a myriad of challenges, from restrictive land use policy to current lending and finance practices. Through a comparative case study, this article examines the crafting of tiny house policy in Asheville, North Carolina, and Horry County, South Carolina. The analysis has resulted in a better understanding of driving factors behind tiny house integration measures, challenges to accommodating tiny and small homes, stakeholder concerns, and best practices. The findings may aid planners and policy makers interested in accommodating tiny and small home infill.
Ubiquinol (Reduced Coenzyme Q10) and Cellular Oxygen Consumption in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Holmberg Mathias J. , Uber Amy , Stankovic Nikola , Chen C.-Y. Oliver , Grossestreuer Anne V. , Donnino Michael W. , Andersen Lars W. , Liu Xiaowen
Published: July 2018

Ubiquinol is a fundamental component of cellular metabolism. Low ubiquinol levels have been associated with mortality. This was a substudy of a randomized trial in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. We drew blood before and after surgery. Ubiquinol or placebo was added to peripheral blood mononuclear cells for oxygen consumption (OCR) measurements. In vivo ubiquinol levels were lower postsurgery compared to presurgery (0.16 μmol/L [quartiles: 0.02-0.39], P = .01), although the difference disappeared when adjusting for hemoglobin levels ( P = .30). There was no difference in presurgical basal (1.0 mL/min/mg [95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.9 to 2.2], P = .08) and maximal (0.5 mL/min/mg [95% CI: −4.3 to 7.3], P = .56) OCR in cells receiving ubiquinol or placebo. There was a difference in postsurgical basal (1.1 mL/min/mg [95% CI: 0.9-1.6], P < .001) and maximal (4.2 mL/min/mg [95% CI: 0.3-7.0], P = .01) OCR between the groups. We found no association between ubiquinol and OCR levels (all P > .05).
Sex-Typed Chores and the City: Gender, Urbanicity, and Housework
Authors: Quadlin Natasha , Doan Long
Published: July 2018

How does place structure the gendered division of household labor? Because people’s living spaces and lifestyles differ dramatically across urban, suburban, and rural areas, it follows that time spent on household chores may vary across places. In cities, for example, many households do not have vehicles or lawns, and housing units tend to be relatively small. Urban men’s and women’s time use therefore provides insight into how partners contribute to household chores when there is less structural demand for the types of tasks they typically do. We examine these dynamics using data on heterosexual married individuals from the American Time Use Survey combined with the Current Population Survey. We find that urban men spend relatively little time on male-typed chores, but they spend the same amount of time on female-typed chores as their suburban and rural counterparts. This pattern suggests that urban men do not “step up” their involvement in female-typed tasks even though they contribute little in the way of other housework. In contrast, urbanicity rarely predicts women’s time use, implying that women spend considerable time on household chores regardless of where they live. Implications for research on gender and housework are discussed.
The effect of pumice powder on mechanical and thermal properties of polypropylene
Authors: Sever Kutlay , Atagür Metehan , Tunçalp Melike , Altay Lütfiye , Seki Yoldas , Sarıkanat Mehmet
Published: July 2018

Pumice stone (P), which is as a cheap material, can be a good candidate for filling material for polymers because of its high thermal resistance. Its effect on properties of polypropylene (PP) has not been studied in detail up to now. The mechanical, viscoelastic, thermal, morphological, crystallographic, and thermomechanical behaviors of PP filled with P powder were studied. The composites were produced by adding different weight fractions of P powder (0–40 wt%) into PP using a high-speed thermo kinetic mixer and compression molding. The highest tensile and flexural strength values, 26.5 and 46.4 MPa, respectively, were obtained when 10 wt% of P powder was filled into PP. Besides, the storage and loss modulus of PP was increased with the addition of P powder. The onset decomposition temperature of PP increased by 39°C with P powder loading into PP. The addition of P powder into PP led to a significant increase on the crystallinity of PP. It is interesting to report that thermal conductivity of PP was increased with increasing weight fraction of P powder.
Openness, Relativity and the Radical Force of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Democratic Theory
Authors: Moraitis Yiorgos
Published: July 2018

David James, Rousseau and German Idealism: Freedom, Dependence and Necessity, 2013. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 246, $23.27 (paperback). ISBN: 978-131-66094-84

Frederick Neuhouser, Rousseau’s Theodicy of Self-Love: Evil, Rationality and the Drive for Recognition, 2010. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 296, $27.55 (paperback). ISBN: 978-019-95920-50

Frederick Neuhouser, Rousseau’s Critique of Inequality: Reconstructing the Second Discourse, 2015. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 250, $3.55 (paperback). ISBN: 978-110-76446-63
US Nuclear Posture Review 2018: Unwisely Re-opening ‘Settled’ Nuclear Issues
Authors: Sethi Manpreet
Published: July 2018

The latest NPR released in 2018 under the watch of President Trump, unabashedly echoes the sentiment of America First. Many nuclear war-fighting issues and concepts that had been settled in the past after having been experimented with and discarded for the risks they carried have yet again been adopted by the current NPR. But, America’s sole focus on its own security alone could end up creating more security dilemmas for the US, and others. This article identifies the main highlights of the NPR, as well as its limitations, and the implications of both for nuclear strategies of major nuclear players. It describes and analyses the context, the content and the consequences of the NPR. It specifically flags some issues/actions that India must particularly watch out for since some of these need to be monitored for their implications on the nuclear strategies and trajectories of India’s nuclear armed neighbours.
Language and Group Processes: An Integrative, Interdisciplinary Review
Authors: Van Swol Lyn M. , Kane Aimée A.
Published: July 2018

This article reviews research that examines the use of language in small interacting groups and teams. We propose a model of group inputs (e.g., status), processes and emergent states (e.g., cohesion, influence, and innovation), and outputs (e.g., group effectiveness and member well-being) to help structure our review. The model is integrated with how language is used by groups to both reflect group inputs but also to examine how language interacts with inputs to affect group processes and create emergent states in groups, and then ultimately helps add value to the group with outputs (e.g., performance). Using cross-disciplinary research, our review finds that language is integral to how groups coordinate, interrelate, and adapt. For example, language convergence is related to increased group cohesion and group performance. Our model provides the theoretical scaffolding to consider language use in interacting small groups and suggests areas for future research.
The Structuration of Community-Based Mental Health Care: A Duality Analysis of a Volunteer Group’s Local Agency
Authors: Zanin Alaina C. , Piercy Cameron W.
Published: July 2018

Using a lens of structuration theory, this study highlights the ways that specific structures within the current community-based model of mental health care might enable and constrain individuals and families living with mental illness. Through a case study of a volunteer mental illness advocacy group, the authors employed a duality analysis on a variety of data collected from the case (i.e., interviews, organizational documents, and community health care data). Findings indicate that while group members encountered structural barriers to their organizational mission, they also used communicative agency creatively and collectively to (re)create structures within the current community-based model of mental health care. Member agency is examined in relation to perceived structural influence. Theoretical and practical applications of the findings are discussed.
Unusual Histopathological Findings in Appendectomy Specimens: A Retrospective Analysis of 2047 Cases
Authors: Unver Nurcan , Coban Ganime , Arıcı Dilek Sema , Buyukpınarbasılı Nur , Gucin Zuhal , Malya Fatma Ümit , Onaran Oyku Izel , Topalan Kıvanc
Published: July 2018

Background. In this study, we retrospectively evaluated cases of patients who had undergone appendectomy in our hospital and aimed to present the efficiency of diagnostic tests and demographic data of cases. Pathological reports were analyzed for the following parameters: age, gender, and pathological diagnosis. In addition, the demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with unusual histopathologic findings were evaluated in detail, and reanalysis of archived resected appendix specimens was carried out. Methods. Files of 2047 patients (1329 males, 718 females, sex ratio: 1.85, age range: 1-87 years, mean age: 26, 50 years), who had been operated with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis in the emergency department of Bezmialem Vakıf University Medical Faculty from November 2011 to June 2014, were retrospectively evaluated. Results. Cases were separated into 2 groups. Cases with histopathologic examination reported as acute appendicitis constituted group 1 (n = 2013, 98.34%), and cases with pathologic findings other than acute appendicitis constituted group 2 (n = 34, 1.66%). The second group consisted of 8 low-grade mucinous neoplasms, 7 mucoceles, 6 carcinoid, 5 granulomatous inflammation, 4 intraluminal Enterobius vermicularis, 1 endometriosis externa, 1 adenocarcinoma infiltrated to serosa, 1 mesenteric cyst, and 1 low-grade adenocarcinoma formed in mucinous cystic neoplasm background. Conclusion. Acute appendicitis is the most common emergency surgical condition. Although most of the resected appendectomy specimens showed typical histopathologic findings, some (1.66%) showed unusual histopathologic findings. Even if the macroscopic appearance of the specimen is normal or acute appendicitis, we suggest routine histopathological examination.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the negative outcomes of retinopathy of prematurity treated with laser photocoagulation
Authors: Liang Jing
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

Retinopathy of prematurity is a leading cause of potentially avertable childhood blindness around the world. And laser photocoagulation is currently performed as a gold standard for retinopathy of prematurity treatment, but it may contribute to elevated myopia and decreased visual field. Therefore, the objective of this meta-analysis is to explore the negative impact of laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity in terms of anatomic outcomes and structural outcomes.

Methods:

Studies were retrieved through literature searches in PubMed and EMBASE from 1990 to 2017 in English. Case-control studies that reported anatomic and structural changes or significant complications after laser coagulation or cryotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity were eligible.

Results:

This meta-analysis included eight original studies related to laser treatment for retinopathy of prematurity at any stages. A total of 1422 infants were participated, of which 1156 documented subthreshold or threshold retinopathy of prematurity without laser treatment were selected as comparison group and the rest treated with diode or argon laser coagulation were chosen for experiment group. Taking all included studies into account, spherical equivalent (mean difference −2.53, 95% confidence interval: –5.23 to 0.18, I2 = 96%, P < 0.00001), anterior chamber depth (mean difference −0.52, 95% confidence interval: −0.76 to −0.28, I2 = 55%, P = 0.11), astigmatism (odds ratio 3.19, 95% confidence interval: 1.61 to 6.32, I2 = 0%, P = 0.54), and myopia (odds ratio 8.08, 95% confidence interval: 3.79 to 17.23, I2 = 37%, P = 0.21) were associated with laser treatment for retinopathy of prematurity. Axial length (mean difference −0.01, 95% confidence interval: –0.28 to 0.27, I2 = 0%, P = 0.62) and anisometropia (odds ratio 4.21, 95% confidence interval: 0.54 to 33.17, I2 = 1%, P = 0.31) had no statistical significance on laser coagulation for retinopathy of prematurity.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis showed that spherical equivalent, anterior chamber depth, astigmatism, and myopia were associated with the negative outcomes of laser coagulation, while axial length and anisometropia had no statistical importance on the defects of laser coagulation. Therefore, patients treated with laser coagulation should follow periodic cycloplegic refraction and receive early optical correction.
Ambivalent sexism in the United Arab Emirates: Quantifying gender attitudes in a rapidly modernizing society
Authors: Maitner Angela T. , Henry P. J.
Published: July 2018

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has prioritized increasing equality between men and women. This research investigates whether equality initiatives are reflected in residents’ attitudes toward women. Five hundred eighty-four Arab participants completed measures of ambivalent sexism, religiosity, and political conservatism, and reported stereotypes about women. Results suggest that Arab participants score similarly on measures of hostile and benevolent sexism to participants from other countries high in economic and political gender inequality; and measures of hostility and benevolence correlate with social attitudes as they do elsewhere around the globe. However, unlike in other datasets exploring contexts of high gender inequality, Arab women score significantly lower on benevolent sexism than men. We explore these findings in light of political and legal policies that have different implications for women’s empowerment in the public and private spheres.
Changes of status in states of political uncertainty: Towards a theory of derecognition
Authors: Gusejnova Dina
Published: July 2018

This article critically examines existing versions of recognition theory in the light of several empirical case studies of twentieth-century political ruptures after the First World War. It notes that the prevalent theoretical focus on the enfranchisement of previously subaltern groups cannot account for the empirical significance of negative processes, such as the disenfranchisement of former elites and the decline of previously hegemonic values, which are typical for conditions of political uncertainty. To conceptualize such examples, an expansion of the existing vocabulary of recognition theory is necessary. The article proposes ways to develop a theory of derecognition which might be used to guide empirical research on informal practices of political change.
Dynamic analysis of coupled train–track–bridge system subjected to debris flow impact
Authors: Zhang Xun , Wen Zhipeng , Chen Wensu , Wang Xiyang , Zhu Yan
Published: July 2018

With the increasing popularity of high-speed railway, more and more bridges are being constructed in Western China where debris flows are very common. A debris flow with moderate intensity may endanger a high-speed train traveling on a bridge, since its direct impact leads to adverse dynamic responses of the bridge and the track structure. In order to address this issue, a dynamic analysis model is established for studying vibrations of coupled train–track–bridge system subjected to debris flow impact, in which a model of debris flow impact load in time domain is proposed and applied on bridge piers as external excitation. In addition, a six-span simply supported box girder bridge is considered as a case study. The dynamic responses of the bridge and the running safety indices such as derailment factor, offload factor, and lateral wheel–rail force of the train are investigated. Some influencing factors are then discussed based on parametric studies. The results show that both bridge responses and running safety indices are greatly amplified due to debris flow impact loads as compared with that without debris flow impact. With respect to the debris flow impact load, the boulder collision has a more negative impact on the dynamic responses of the bridge and train than the dynamic slurry pressure. Both the debris flow impact intensity and train speed determine the running safety indices, and the debris flow occurrence time should be also carefully considered to investigate the worst scenario.
Extended opening hours at nightclubs in Visby
Authors: Norström Thor , Ramstedt Mats , Svensson Johan
Published: July 2018

Background and aims:

During 10 weeks in the summer 2014 opening hours in nightclubs in Visby (Sweden) were extended by 1 hour, postponing the permitted closing time from 2 to 3 a.m. A number of preventive efforts such as Responsible Server Training, and an intensified cooperation between the police and the nightclubs were strengthened in connection with the trial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of this trial on police-reported violence.

Data and methods:

To estimate the effect of the trial on violence, we compared the violence rate during the intervention period (week 24–week 33, 2014) with the violence rate in the corresponding period in Visby in 2010–2013. The intervention period thus comprised 10 weeks, and the pre-intervention period 40 weeks. As outcome measure we chose police-reported assaults that had occurred at night (midnight–6 a.m.). As control series we used assaults daytime (6 a.m.–midnight). The intervention effect was estimated with the method of “difference in differences” (DiD). Interviews with key informants provided the study with an explanatory context for the trial outcomes.

Results:

The intervention effect was strongly statistically significant with a reduction of 3.336 reported assaults at night per week compared to the pre-intervention period. This represents a decrease of 71%.

Conclusion:

The trial with an extension of opening hours at nightclubs in Visby was followed by a reduction in police-reported violence. This unexpected outcome is likely to be the result of (i) the simultaneous strengthening of efficient preventive measures, and (ii) a decreased congestion in the streets resulting from increased spread in closing hours.
‘Working with the media taught us a lot’: Understanding The Guardian’s Katine initiative
Authors: Jones Ben
Published: July 2018

One of the more important ventures in the world of media and development over the past decade has been The Guardian newspaper’s ‘Katine’ project in Uganda. The newspaper, with funding from its readers and Barclays Bank, put more than 2.5 million pounds into a Ugandan sub-county over the course of 4 years. The project was profiled on a dedicated Guardian microsite, with regular updates in the printed edition of the newspaper. In this article, I look at the relationship that developed between journalists and the non-governmental organisation and show that the experience was both disorienting and reorienting for the development project that was being implemented. The scrutiny of the project that appeared on the microsite disoriented the non-governmental organisation, making its work the subject of public criticism. The particular issues explored by journalists also reoriented what the non-governmental organisation did on the ground. I also point to the ways the relationship grew more settled as the project moved along, suggesting the amount of work that sometimes goes into what is often characterised as the relatively uncritical relationship between journalists and non-governmental organisations.
Philip J Morris: Some history and professional achievements
Authors: McLaughlin Dennis K , Viswanathan K , Morris Karen
Published: July 2018

This introduction contains personal information and a summary of numerous technical achievements of Professor Philip J. Morris, an incredibly talented aeroacoustician and a true gentleman. Phil’s daughter Karen Morris, with the help of her mother Bing Morris, provided the history of Phil’s family and early education. The lead author has been an active research partner for over 30 years and the second author has been a continuing research partner for that long, including his time as Phil’s PhD advisee. The technical contributions made during Phil’s time in Toronto, Canada, and in Georgia and Pennsylvania, USA are sprinkled with personal information to round out his many accomplishments. We hope that this prosopography serves to enhance and contextualize this special journal volume compiled for Phil, an honor that is so richly deserved.
ESOPE-Equivalent Pulsing Protocols for Calcium Electroporation: An In Vitro Optimization Study on 2 Cancer Cell Models
Authors: Romeo Stefania , Sannino Anna , Scarfì Maria Rosaria , Vernier P. Thomas , Cadossi Ruggero , Gehl Julie , Zeni Olga
Published: July 2018

Reversible electroporation is used to increase the uptake of chemotherapeutic drugs in local tumor treatment (electrochemotherapy) by applying the pulsing protocol (8 rectangular pulses, 1000 V/cm, 100 µs) standardized in the framework of the European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy multicenter trial. Currently, new electrochemotherapy strategies are under development to extend its applicability to tumors with different histology. Electrical parameters and drug type are critical factors. A possible approach is to test pulse parameters different from European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy but with comparable electroporation yield (European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy-equivalent protocols). Moreover, the use of non-toxic drugs combined with electroporation represents the new frontier for electrochemotherapy applications; calcium electroporation has been recently proposed as a simple tool for anticancer therapy. In vitro investigations facilitate the optimization of electrical parameters and drugs for in vivo and clinical testing. In this optimization study, new pulsing protocols have been tested by increasing the pulse number and reducing the electric field with respect to the standard. European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy-equivalent protocols have been identified in HL-60 and A431 cancer cell models, and a higher sensitivity in terms of electroporation yield has been recorded in HL-60 cells. Moreover, cell killing efficacy of European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy-equivalent protocols has been demonstrated in the presence of increasing calcium concentrations on both cell lines. Equivalent European Standard Operating Procedure on Electrochemotherapy protocols can be used to optimize the therapeutic effects in the clinic, where different regions of the same cancer tissue, with different electrical properties, might result in a differential electroporation yield of the standard protocol over the same tissue, or, eventually, in an override of the operational limits of the instrument. Moreover, using calcium can help overcome the drawbacks of standard drugs (side effects, high costs, difficult handling, preparation, and storage procedures). These results support the possibility of new treatment options in both standard electrochemotherapy and calcium electroporation, with clear advantages in the clinic.
Open Versus Endovascular Revascularization of Below-Knee Arteries in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease and Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Meyer Alexander , Schilling Anne , Kott Magdalena , Rother Ulrich , Lang Werner , Regus Susanne
Published: July 2018

Background:

Evaluation of below-the-knee open revascularization (OR) versus endovascular revascularization (EVT) in patients with end-stage renal disease and critical limb ischemia (CLI) was performed.

Patients and Methods:

Seventy-seven dialysis patients with CLI and infrapopliteal involvement from 2007 to 2017 were included. Thirty-five patients received OR and 42 patients were treated with EVT. Survival, amputation-free survival (AFS) and wound-healing were evaluated. Furthermore, both groups were analyzed for differences as to anatomic (lesion length, runoff, pedal arch classification) and clinical (VSG risk score, WIfI score) characteristics.

Results:

Amputation-free survival (1-year AFS: OR 54.5% vs 47.6% in EVT, 2-year AFS OR 38.3% vs 23.9% EVT, P = .201) did not significantly differ between OR and EVT nor did the wound healing rate (29% OR vs 31% EVT, P = .532). Overall survival was noticeably poor (1-year survival: 66.7% in OR and 49% in EVT, 2-year survival OR 47.4% vs EVT 27.7%; P = .088); evaluation of peripheral runoff (Rutherford score 6.9 OR vs 7.1 EVT, P = .499) and pedal arch classification as well as WIfI or VSG risk score (9.8 OR vs 9.6 EVT, P = .673) could not detect significant differences as to both the groups. Treated median lesion length was significantly increased in OR patients (OR 26 cm vs EVT 7 cm, P < .001), whereas the incidence of major adverse cardiac events was higher in EVT patients (67% in EVT vs 40% OR, P = .023).

Conclusion:

OR and EVT showed comparable outcomes as to AFS and wound healing. Poor overall survival remains the determining factor in patients with ESRD having CLI. Both groups differ in terms of anatomic features as lesion length and severity of comorbidities; considering the comparable long-term outcomes, decision-making should be based on these premises; individually applied, each method can contribute to limb salvage, although the overall survival remains limited.
‘We would have missed out so much had we terminated’: What fathers of a child with Down syndrome think about current non-invasive prenatal testing for Down syndrome
Authors: How Bethea , Smidt Andy , Wilson Nathan J , Barton Rebecca , Valentin Chelsea
Published: July 2018

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) allows early, accurate diagnosis of Down syndrome that has resulted in increased terminations. This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews of fathers of children with Down syndrome about their views on the availability of NIPT. Thematic network analysis revealed that although fathers appreciated an early diagnosis with NIPT, they saw the test as being a predetermined pathway to termination. Fathers felt that expectation to terminate reflects negative societal attitudes towards those with Down syndrome and disability, fearing that NIPT may become a form of eugenics. Fathers retrospectively contrasted these attitudes with the actual reality of raising their children with Down syndrome, which they described as bringing joy to their lives. Findings suggest that although fathers valued NIPT as an information-giving tool that allowed autonomous parental choices about the pregnancy, they believe that it should be accompanied by balanced information about the reality of raising a child with Down syndrome.