bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
pH-Responsive Antibacterial Resin Adhesives for Secondary Caries Inhibition
Authors: Liang J. , Liu F. , Zou J. , Xu H.H.K. , Han Q. , Wang Z. , Li B. , Yang B. , Ren B. , Li M. , Peng X. , Li J. , Zhang S. , Zhou X. , Cheng L.
Published: June 2020

Secondary caries caused by dental plaque is one of the major reasons for the high failure rate of resin composite restoration. Although antimicrobial agent–modified dental restoration systems have been researched for years, few reported intelligent anticaries materials could respond to the change of the oral environment and help keep oral eubiosis. Herein, we report tertiary amine (TA)–modified resin adhesives (TA@RAs) with pH-responsive antibacterial effect to reduce the occurrence of secondary caries. Two kinds of newly designed TA monomers were synthesized: DMAEM (dodecylmethylaminoethyl methacrylate) and HMAEM (hexadecylmethylaminoethyl methacrylate). In the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration test against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Streptococcus gordonii, they exhibited antibacterial effect only in acidic medium, which preliminarily verified the acid-activated effect of TAs. Then DMAEM and HMAEM were incorporated into adhesive resin at the mass fraction of 5%, yielding TA@RAs. In vivo and in vitro tests showed that the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the adhesive were not affected. A S. mutans biofilm model in acidic and neutral medium was used and confirmed that TA@RAs could respond to the critical pH value of de-/remineralization and acquire reversible antibiofilm effect via the protonation and deprotonation of TAs. Meanwhile, the stability of antibacterial effect was confirmed via a 5-d pH-cycling experiment and a saliva-derived biofilm aging model. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that TA@RAs could increase the diversity of the saliva-derived biofilms, which implied that the novel materials could help regulate the microbial community to a healthy one. Finally, an in vitro demineralization model and in vivo secondary caries model were applied and demonstrated that TA@RAs could prevent secondary dental caries effectively. In summary, the reversible pH-responsive and non–drug release antibacterial resin adhesives ingeniously overcome the defect of the present materials and hold great promise for clinical application.
Rights-Politics and the Politics of Rights in Neoliberal India
Authors: Gopalan Aparna
Published: June 2020

In 1991, the Indian economy, was finally proclaimed liberalised from the control of the state; the market was now to be the sole engine of growth, development and poverty alleviation. But just over a decade later, a series of rights-based legislations––rights to food, work, information, education, and forests were seen as challenging the market’s dominance over an anti-poverty agenda and heralding the birth of India’s welfare state. These rights-based legislations have animated a growing field of social scientific inquiry which assesses the genesis and career of the different pro-poor laws that have passed since 2005. This paper reviews two recent contributions to that scholarship: Rob Jenkins and James Manor’s Politics and the Right to Work and Indrajit Roy’s Politics of the Poor, both of which are concerned with the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA). After contextualising the two books within an emerging legal activism and providing an in-depth discussion of their key concepts, arguments and methods, attention is paid to each author's explanation of the contradictions between India’s neoliberal economy and welfare state. In conclusion, the strengths and limitations of prevailing approaches studying India’s poverty alleviation programmes are discussed and it is suggested that a theoretical cross-fertilisation with neoliberalism studies could further reinvigorate and give shape to this promising literature.
Book review: Bidyut Mohanty, Lakshmi the Rebel: Culture, Economy and Women’s Agency
Authors: Mohanty Sachidananda
Published: June 2020

Bidyut Mohanty, Lakshmi the Rebel: Culture, Economy and Women’s Agency. New Delhi, Har Anand Publications, India, 2019, 168 pp., ₹595. ISBN 978–93–88409–29–2
Book review: T. Haque and D. N. Reddy (Eds.), India: Social Development Report 2018
Authors: Dhar Biswajit
Published: June 2020

T. Haque and D. N. Reddy (Eds.), India: Social Development Report 2018. Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2019, 356 pp., ₹1395, ISBN: 9780199494361
Non-farm Diversification and Agrarian Change: The Story of a Semi- arid Village in Rajasthan
Authors: Alha Akhil
Published: June 2020

The paper, a study of Baspur village in Rajasthan, spans a period of five years. It argues that changes in the village economy of Baspur have been guided by a greater integration of the village with the outside world, facilitated by improved modes of communication and transport. Over the years, the increase in non-farm employment, mostly casual and informal in nature in nearby towns, has emerged as a major driver of growth and distribution of income in the village economy. This, coupled with already existing migration streams, considered essential to support livelihood, has greatly reduced the dependence of rural households on agriculture. This is evident in the reluctance of male workers towards preforming farming tasks, a decline in the incidence of land-leasing in the village and a steep rise in farm wages over the years.
From the Home to the Borders: Violence Against Women, Impunity and Resistance
Authors: Chakravarti Uma
Published: June 2020

In this article, I will examine the arc of violence that women in India have been historically subjected to, as well as new arenas in which violence is now manifesting itself. The focus is on four arenas in which violence against women, especially sexual violence, needs to be located as each of these have specific features that are associated with the manner in which impunity operates, thereby invisibilising violence, and the long road traversed by the women’s movement in challenging that violence. The four arenas are: first, the home where violence is enacted in the intimate sphere of the family; second, the streets and fields where caste and class power provide impunity to the perpetrators; third, villages and regions where communal and targetted violence have been enacted, often with administrative and state complicity, especially in recent decades; and fourth, the borderlands where impunity is sought to be derived from special laws that the security state has put into operation to control turbulent populations.
Resilient anti-disturbance H∞ control for turbofan systems
Authors: Li Yankai , Chen Mou , Li Tao , Wang Huijiao , Kang Yu
Published: June 2020

The problem of [Formula: see text] control is investigated for turbofan systems with uncertain parameters and multiple disturbances in this paper. Some disturbances with partly known information are described via an external system, and other disturbances are assumed to be [Formula: see text] norm bounded. According to the disturbance-observer-based-control (DOBC) method and resilient [Formula: see text] control technique, a robust resilient controller is designed to reject and attenuate the influence of these disturbances, and guarantees that closed-loop systems are asymptotically stable with [Formula: see text] performance. Some solvable sufficient conditions are obtained based on the linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique and Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, a simulation is presented to show the robustness and effectiveness of the developed resilient anti-disturbance [Formula: see text] control method.
Angioleiomyoma of the Larynx: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Perardi Federica , Abbate Giuseppe , Iannuzzelli Leonardo R. , Contini Rossella , De Munari Manuela , Sciuto Francesco G. , Leutner Monica , Scotti Antonio
Published: June 2020

Angioleiomyoma is a benign smooth muscle and vessel tumor; laryngeal localization is extremely rare with only 24 cases described in the literature; moreover, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of laryngeal mass. Endoscopic complete surgical excision with dissection along capsule is now considered the gold-standard treatment for small and well-circumscribed laryngeal angioleiomyoma. We present a case of laryngeal angioleiomyoma successfully treated with carbon dioxide laser technology which resulted in a bleeding reduction and adequate hemostasis with less tissue damage and good functional outcome.
Assessing the Educational Quality of Facebook Videos as an Informative Resource on Otitis Media
Authors: Kahn Chase I. , Wang Rita , Shetty Kunal , Huestis Mikayla J. , Cohen Michael B. , Levi Jessica R.
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study analyzes the quality and reliability of otitis media (OM) videos on Facebook and investigates whether the videos shared within the Facebook community are considered to be a valuable educational tool. The results of this study are important for providing clinicians with the necessary understanding about the video content that their patients may be exposed to.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of video content.

Setting

A new Facebook account was created to carry out a search for videos on OM.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were as follows: videos intended for educating patients or guardians on OM, videos in the English language, and videos with at least 1 share.

Results

A total of 364 videos were screened, and 62 fit our inclusion criteria for analysis. The majority (56%) of OM videos on Facebook focused on complementary and alternative medication without mentioning any current guidelines. A limited amount of videos (29%) made any mention to surgical treatment options for OM. There was a strong positive correlation (rho = 0.8419, P <. 001) between a video’s content and its reliability. There was no correlation seen between a video’s content and its shares (rho = −0.142, P =. 1359).

Conclusions

The majority of OM videos on Facebook are inadequate for educational value. Clinicians should know about the existence of videos on OM and the quality of information that parents are exposed to.
Telemedicine Algorithm for the Management of Dizzy Patients
Authors: Chari Divya A. , Wu Matthew J. , Crowson Matthew G. , Kozin Elliott D. , Rauch Steven D.
Published: June 2020

As a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic, telemedicine has been thrust to the forefront of health care. Despite its inherent limitations, telemedicine offers many advantages to both patient and physician as an alternative to in‐person evaluation of select patients. In the near term, telemedicine allows nonpandemic care to proceed while observing appropriate public health concerns to minimize the spread of pandemic pathogens. Thus, it behooves practitioners to use telemedicine consultations for common otolaryngology complaints. Assessment of the dizzy patient is well‐suited to an algorithmic approach that can be adapted to a telemedicine setting. As best practices for telemedicine have yet to be defined, we present herein a practical approach to the history and limited physical examination of the dizzy patient in the telemedicine setting for the general otolaryngologist. Indeed, once the acute crisis has abated, we suspect that this approach will continue to be an effective way to manage dizzy patients.
Misconceptions About Negative Pressure Rooms and Their Impact Aboard USNS Comfort in New York City
Authors: Hill Christopher J. , Capra Gregory G. , McDonald Thomas P. , Santiago Gabriel F. , Radabaugh J. Paul
Published: June 2020

The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has had a momentous impact on the field of otolaryngology due to the high number of aerosol‐generating procedures involving the upper aerodigestive tract. These procedures bear significant risk to the provider and clinical environment due to the possibility of viral aerosolization. While significant attention has been appropriately paid to personal protective equipment during this pandemic, an understanding of industrial hygiene is also necessary for the safe delivery of health care to mitigate the risk of exposure to other patients and health care workers. We provide a review of air ventilation practices and their role in reducing pathogen spread. In addition, we share our experiences with effectively treating COVID‐19–positive patients aboard the USNS Comfort through proper environment control measures.
Reverse‐Surge Planning During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Cautionary Ramp‐up for the Otolaryngologist
Authors: Shipchandler Taha Z. , Nesemeier B. Ryan , Barnes Kaitlyn J. , Kelly Leah R. , Schmalbach Cecelia E. , Ting Jonathan Y.
Published: June 2020

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic continues to evolve through the United States and other countries, differing rates of progression and decline are occurring based on varied population densities. While some health systems are reaching a steady state of new patient cases, others are seeing a leveling off or decline, allowing for restoration of normal practices. This “reverse‐surge” planning and implementation process is a colossal undertaking for health systems trying to reacquire patient access and financial stability while preserving necessary resources and maintaining precautions for another potential surge. For the otolaryngologist, reverse‐surge planning involves additional workflow adjustments in the outpatient and operating room settings given the abundance of COVID‐19 virus in the upper aerodigestive tract. As the reverse‐surge best practices are still under development, open communication between otolaryngology colleagues and health system leadership is paramount to optimize efficiency and maintain an adequate measure of safety for patients and our health care teams.
The effects of small-needle-knife therapy on pain and mobility from knee osteoarthritis: a pilot randomized-controlled study
Authors: Zhu Junchen , Zheng Zhiwen , Liu Yaomeng , Lawrie Sophie , Esser Patrick , Izadi Hooshang , Dawes Helen , Xia Zhidao , Wang Chao , Xiong Yingzong , Ma Xingfu , Wade Derick T
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To investigate the effect of small needle-knife therapy in people with painful knee osteoarthritis.

Design:

Pilot randomised, controlled trial.

Setting:

Rehabilitation hospital.

Subjects:

In-patients with osteo-arthritis of the knee.

Interventions:

Either 1 to 3 small needle-knife treatments over seven days or oral Celecoxib. All patients stayed in hospital three weeks, receiving the same mobility-focused rehabilitation.

Measures:

Oxford Knee Score (OKS), gait speed and kinematics were recorded at baseline, at three weeks (discharge) and at three-months (OKS only). Withdrawal from the study, and adverse events associated with the small needle knife therapy were recorded.

Results:

83 patients were randomized: 44 into the control group, of whom 10 were lost by three weeks and 12 at 3 months; 39 into the experimental group of whom eight were lost at three weeks and three months. The mean (SE) OKS scores at baseline were Control 35.86 (1.05), Exp 38.38 (0.99); at three weeks 26.64 (0.97) and 21.94 (1.23); and at three months 25.83 (0.91) and 20.48 (1.14) The mean (SE) gait speed at baseline was 1.07 (0.03) m/sec (Control) and 0.98 (0.03), and at three weeks was 1.14 (0.03) and 1.12 (0.03) ( P < 0.05). Linear mixed model statistical analysis showed that the improvements in the experimental group were statistically significant for total OKS score at discharge and three months

Conclusions:

Small needle-knife therapy added to standard therapy for patients with knee osteoarthritis, was acceptable, safe and reduced pain and improved global function on the Oxford Knee Score. Further research is warranted.
A practical method of using the anatomical space of the vesicouterine ligament for laparoscopic radical hysterectomy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Jing , Sun Lulu , Ni Ting , Huang Yong , Wang Lihua , Yuan Jiangjing , Fan Qiong , Li Yuhong , Wang Yudong
Published: June 2020

Objective

To investigate the practicality of a new method using anatomical spaces for performing standard laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) without ureteral injury in patients with cervical cancer.

Methods

Clinicopathological characteristics and perioperative complications were retrospectively analysed in 440 patients with stages IB1 to IIB cervical cancer. The patients were assigned to two of the following groups: LRH by our method of using anatomical landmarks (anatomical space group, n = 217) and the traditional method (traditional group, n = 223).

Results

The mean operative duration and time of vesicouterine ligament (VUL) dissection were significantly shorter (173.87 ± 30.39 vs. 210.83 ± 44.55 minutes; 32.75 ± 7.23 vs. 43.48 ± 11.22 minutes), and blood loss was less in the anatomical space group compared with the traditional group. The rate of the intraoperative complication of ureteral injury was also significantly lower in the anatomical space group compared with the traditional group (0 vs. 5).

Conclusions

LRH by the anatomical method, using the axillary space and other potential spaces as anatomical landmarks, results in less blood loss and reduced ureteral injury compared with the traditional method. This method is safe and practical for separating the ureter from the VUL in patients with cervical cancer.
Novel Approach for Calibrating Freeway Highway Multi-Regimes Fundamental Diagram
Authors: Kidando Emmanuel , Karaer Alican , Kutela Boniphace , Kitali Angela E. , Moses Ren , Ozguven Eren E. , Sando Thobias
Published: June 2020

For almost a century, several models have been developed to calibrate the pairwise relationship between traffic flow variables, that is, speed, density, and flow. Multi-regime models are well known for being superior over single-regime models in fitting the speed–density relationship. However, in modeling multi-regime models, breakpoints that separate the regimes are visually established based on the subjective judgment of data characteristics. Thus, this study proposes a data-driven approach to estimate the breakpoints of multi-regime models. It applies the Bayesian model for calibrating multi-regime models (two and three-regime models) for fitting traffic flow fundamental diagram. Furthermore, the analysis presented accounts for the random characteristics associated with the flow. To demonstrate the application of the proposed algorithm, traffic flow data from Interstate 10 (I-10) freeway in Jacksonville, Florida, were used in the analysis. The results demonstrate the potential benefit of using the proposed model in calibrating the fundamental diagram. The proposed approach can also quantify uncertainty and encode prior knowledge about the breakpoints in the model if the model developer wishes.
Suggestions for Advancing Pragmatic Solutions for Dissemination: Potential Updates to Evidence-Based Repositories
Authors: Harden Samantha M. , Steketee Abby , Glasgow Trevin , Glasgow Russell E. , Estabrooks Paul A.
Published: June 2020

Evidence-based program repositories (EBPR) report intervention characteristics and how to implement the intervention. These EBPR are a dissemination strategy to address questions such as, “I have cancer, what programs can I join?” or “What evidence-based programs for weight loss are a good fit for my community?” However, these EBPR fall short of realizing their potential and are not seen as particularly interactive, robust, or relevant to stakeholders who may benefit from their content. We propose 2 solutions for existing EBPR to enhance dissemination of evidence-based information. Addressing this critical dissemination need is one strategy for health promotion.
Family Ties and Aging in a Multiethnic Cohort
Authors: Ying Gelan , Vonk Jet M. J. , Sol Ketlyne , Brickman Adam M. , Manly Jennifer J. , Zahodne Laura B.
Published: June 2020

Objective: Lack of social support is linked to lower cognitive function and cognitive decline. We investigated the effects of a specific type of social relationship, family ties, on cognitive trajectories in non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, and Hispanics. Methods: Using multiple-group latent growth curve models, we analyzed associations between the number of children/grandchildren/siblings/other relatives contacted within the past month at baseline and cognitive trajectories in 1420 older adults who were nondemented at baseline. Language, memory, and visuospatial abilities were assessed at baseline and at 18- and 24-month follow-ups for up to six visits. Inferential analyses assessed the differential effects of sex/gender and race/ethnicity for each family tie. Results: Independent of all covariates, contact with more relatives was associated with better initial memory ( b = .01) and language functioning ( b = .01) across race/ethnicity and sex/gender. Conclusion: The size of peripheral rather than immediate family networks may be more likely to affect cognitive function in older adults.
Key Features Underlying Low-Value Care Recommendations
Authors: Marcotte Leah M. , Zech Jennifer M. , Liao Joshua M.
Published: June 2020

One potential reason that low-value care remains persistent is variation in recommendations created to deter it. A better understanding of key features, and how they differ across a range of recommendations, can offer insight about improvement opportunities. To address this knowledge gap, the authors described 3 features using a broad set of consensus Choosing Wisely recommendations: underlying rationales (ie, avoidance of waste and/or harm), types of services targeted, and types of supportive evidence used. The minority of recommendations were accompanied by rationales invoking waste (36%), harm (17%), and both (40%); 7% of recommendations were accompanied by no rationales. The most commonly targeted service type was diagnostic imaging (31%), while the least commonly targeted service type was clinical referrals/consults (1%). Most recommendations (50%) utilized guidelines as sources. These findings highlight several opportunities to modify low-value care recommendations in order to ultimately strengthen efforts to reduce low-value care.
Appropriate Nurse Staffing Levels for U.S. Nursing Homes
Authors: Harrington Charlene , Dellefield Mary Ellen , Halifax Elizabeth , Fleming Mary Louise , Bakerjian Debra
Published: June 2020

US nursing homes are required to have sufficient nursing staff with the appropriate competencies to assure resident safety and attain or maintain the highest practicable level of physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident. Minimum nurse staffing levels have been identified in research studies and recommended by experts. Beyond the minimum levels, nursing homes must take into account the resident acuity to assure they have adequate staffing levels to meet the needs of residents. This paper presents a guide for determining whether a nursing home has adequate and appropriate nurse staffing. We propose five basic steps to: (1) determine the collective resident acuity and care needs, (2) determine the actual nurse staffing levels, (3) identify appropriate nurse staffing levels to meet residents care needs, (4) examine evidence regarding the adequacy of staffing, and (5) identify gaps between the actual staffing and the appropriate nursing staffing levels based on resident acuity. Data sources and specific methodologies are analyzed, compared, and recommended. The goal is to assist nursing home nurses and administrators to ensure adequate nursing home staffing levels that protect resident health, safety, and well-being.
(Re)moving blinders: Communication-as-constitutive theorizing as provocation to practice-based organization scholarship
Authors: Kuhn Timothy
Published: June 2020

Practice-based organization scholarship has made significant contributions, but its vision is narrow. It aims to show organizational scholars that what are taken to be entities are better understood as the accomplishments of ongoing practices; in doing so, it seeks to re-imagine the organization studies field. Yet, practice-based organization scholarship suffers from some encumbering blind spots, particularly with respect to its conceptions of agency and its ability to theorize “the” organization. I offer communication as constitutive of organization theorizing—itself a variant of practice thinking—as providing some helpful remedies to those problems. Both approaches, however, have trouble seeing domination in organizing, so a further provocation builds on their shared interest in new materialist theorizing to articulate a novel approach to exposing the conditions and conduct of organizing.
Party-n-Play and online information and communication technologies: A socio-linguistic perspective
Authors: Souleymanov Rusty , Brennan David J. , H. Logie Carmen , Allman Dan , Craig Shelley L. , Halkitis Perry N.
Published: June 2020

This study examined the discourses of gay and bisexual men who seek Party-n-Play (PNP; sex that occurs under the influence of drugs) on mobile apps and websites. In-depth interviews were conducted with 44 gay and bisexual men who lived in Toronto, and who used drugs before or during sex in the previous month. Data were analysed using critical discourse analysis. The study findings presented evidence for subcultural discourses of gay and bisexual men who seek PNP online, and revealed how these discourses were implicated in recasting the practices of biopolitics, as well as enacting risk subjectivities of these men.
Male homosocial bonds and perceptions of human–robot relationships in an online sex doll forum
Authors: Middleweek Belinda
Published: June 2020

Debates about human–machine relationships have intensified following the launch of the world’s first commercially available sex robot ‘Harmony’, a hyperrealistic sex doll with AI-capabilities. With the likely consumer market for these devices among white, male, heterosexual sex-doll owners, their views about sex robot technology and the niche online communities in which they discuss their doll relationships have received little scholarly attention. Through a qualitative analysis of the discursive practices of male users of a major sex doll forum, this study found complex and dynamic homosocial relations characterized men’s online interactions. In their discussion of a sex robot future, men negotiate competing structures of masculinity and sexuality and create a safe, online space for others to express their sexual desires and preferences. Using the concept of the ‘seam’ or join, the results reveal the way male users of sex dolls position themselves subjectively and are positioned by technology and the increasingly porous interface between human and machine.
Design of simple and efficient metal nanoparticles templated on ZnO-chitosan coated textile cotton towards the catalytic reduction of organic pollutants
Authors: Khan Sher Bahadar , Ismail Muhammad , Bakhsh Esraa M , Asiri Abdullah M
Published: June 2020

In this study simple, facile and highly active silver coated ZnO-chitosan (Ag/ZnO-CH) textile cotton supported nanocomposites were developed. The nanocomposites were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-rays spectroscopy (EDX), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-rays diffraction (XRD). The prepared nanocomposite fibers were used for the selective removal of seven model pollutants, including para-nitrophenol (p-NP), meta-nitrophenol (m-NP), ortho-nitrophenol (o-NP), 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP), and dyes of methyl orange (MO), congo red (CR), and methyl red (MR). The apparent rate constant (Kapp) of pseudo first order kinetic for p-NP was 2.813 × 10−3 s−1 and 1.663 × 10−3 s−1 for MO dye. Among the different nitroarenes, the reaction rate matched the ordered of p-NP >TNP > m-NP > o-NP, while for the dyes it was MO > CR > MR. Ag/ZnO-CH nanocomposites were recycled multiple times without any significant loss of its catalytic activity. The higher stability of the Ag/ZnO-CH nanofibers also allows the catalyst to be separated easily by just pulling the catalyst from the reaction mixture and reused. The clean and facile, simple synthesis procedure, outstanding properties and low-cost supports allow these catalysts to be used in the reduction of the organic pollutants individually as well as collectively in the mixture of dyes in wastewater at room temperature.
Yarn degradation during weaving process and its effect on the mechanical behaviours of 3D warp interlock p-aramid fabric for industrial applications
Authors: Abtew Mulat Alubel , Boussu François , Bruniaux Pascal , Loghin Carmen , Cristian Irina , Chen Yan , Wang Lichuan
Published: June 2020

Three dimensional (3D) warp interlock fabric becomes a promising structure due to its good mechanical performances. However, its complex manufacturing process can cause severe yarn damage and affects its overall final performances. The current study addressed the effects weaving process and warp yarn ratios on the multi-filaments yarn degradations and its mechanical performances while 3D warp interlock fabric manufacturing. Four different 3D warp interlock variants having similar fabric architecture, and yarn densities but different warp yarns interchange ratios were manufactured using 930dTex high-performance multi-filament (Twaron® f1000). The multi-filaments yarns at different weaving processes were tested for their tensile properties. The results show that the average tensile strength of twisted yarns show a decrement of 5.68% as compared to the bobbin yarns. Meanwhile, warping process also showed a 16.11% maximum breaking load reduction as compared to the bobbin yarn. Besides, the tensile strength of binding yarn after weaving process for samples 3D-8/0, 3D-8/4, and 3D-8/8 was reduced by 12.79%, 5.22%, and 14.22% respectively as compared to the yarn after warping process. In conclusion, yarn degradation inside the 3D woven structure was affected not only by the various process parameters but also by the type of fabric architecture made with different warp yarn ratios. These phenomena ultimately bring a great influence both on the yarn and overall mechanical performance of the final products. For this, further studies are planned to investigate the multi-filaments yarn degradation effect on the ballistic performances fibrous material as it is directly linked to the yarn performance.
The Relationship Between Perception of HIV Susceptibility and Willingness to Discuss PrEP With a Health Care Provider: A Pilot Study
Authors: Carter Gregory , Woodward Brennan
Published: June 2020

HIV continues to be a significant public health concern and despite recent reductions in new HIV diagnoses, certain demographics continue to be disproportionality affected. Men who have sex with other men (MSM) account for the largest percentage of new HIV diagnoses; however, 24% of new diagnoses can be attributed to male-to-female sex, highlighting the need to explore the HIV epidemic beyond the narrow scope of MSM. A multivariate linear regression model was used to explore the perception of HIV susceptibility and level of comfort discussing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with a health care provider among a sample of men living in the United States ( n = 377). Men who had an increased perception of HIV susceptibility were significantly more likely to feel comfortable discussing PrEP with a health care provider. Men who distinguish themselves to be at increased risk of acquiring HIV were significantly more likely to report having either insertive or receptive condomless anal intercourse within the previous 3 months, while men who reported condomless vaginal intercourse perceived low HIV susceptibility. Never being screened for HIV was significantly associated with a perception of low HIV susceptibility compared to those men who had been screened in the previous year. Understanding how men perceive HIV susceptibility and engage with HIV prevention may help to improve HIV prevention efforts such as PrEP.
Individualized Whole-Body Vibration: Neuromuscular, Biochemical, Muscle Damage and Inflammatory Acute Responses
Authors: Di Giminiani Riccardo , Rucci Nadia , Capuano Lorenzo , Ponzetti Marco , Aielli Federica , Tihanyi Jozsef
Published: June 2020

Objective. We aimed to investigate the acute residual hormonal, biochemical, and neuromuscular responses to a single session of individualized whole-body vibration (WBV) while maintaining a half-squat position. Methods. Twenty male sport science students voluntarily participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to an individualized WBV group (with the acceleration load determined for each participant) or an isometric group (ISOM). A double-blind, controlled parallel study design with repeated measures was employed. Results. Testosterone and growth hormone increased significantly over time in the WBV group ( P < .05 and P < .01, respectively; effect size [ES] ranged from 1.00 to 1.23), whereas cortisol increased over time in both groups ( P < .01; ES ranged from 1.04 and 1.36). Interleukin-6 and creatine kinase increased significantly over time only in the WBV group ( P < .05; ES = 1.07). The maximal voluntary contraction decreased significantly over time in the ISOM group ( P = .019; ES = 0.42), whereas in the WBV group, the decrease did not reach a significant level ( P = .05). The ratio of electromyographic activity and power decreased significantly over time in the WBV group ( P < .01; ES ranged from 0.57 to 0.72). Conclusion. Individualized WBV increased serum hormonal concentrations, muscle damage, and inflammation to levels similar to those induced by resistance training and hypertrophy exercises.
Learning From Vulnerable Populations: Methodological Implications of Interviewing Individuals With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Dow Brenda S. , Boylan Brandon M.
Published: June 2020

Scholars face methodological challenges when conducting research about vulnerable populations, such as individuals living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). They often struggle to identify, sample, and interview individuals in order to learn about their life experiences and perspectives. Although some scholarship provides methodological guidance on researching vulnerable populations, scant literature addresses accessing and collecting perceptions from individuals with FASD. Based on work with adults with FASD, we offer procedures for sampling and interviewing. Our suggestions include working with agencies and gatekeepers involved with the population; ensuring voluntary and informed consent throughout the interview process; establishing rapport with interviewees and providing a comfortable interview environment for them; and adjusting interview questions according to individuals’ cognitive abilities. By following these procedures, researchers can learn from these individuals while reducing the risk of harm to them.
A new geometry-based secondary path planning for automatic parking
Authors: Zhou Ren-Fang , Liu Xiao-Feng , Cai Guo-Ping
Published: June 2020

In auto-parking systems, a certain degree of error in the path tracking algorithm is inevitable. This is caused by actuator error, tire slipping, or other factors relevant to and included in the parking process. In such situations, the parking path needs to be updated to finish parking successfully which is referred to as secondary path planning. Herein, a new geometry-based method is proposed to deal with this issue, which can be called the pattern-based method. In this method, a predefined path pattern set consisting of 24 multi-segment patterns is developed first. These patterns are composed of straight lines and arcs and account for constraints due to motion and the immediate environment. Then, a traversal policy is adopted to select the path pattern from the set, and the sequential quadratic programming algorithm is used to determine the optimal parameters that fine-tune the pattern to meet the current constraints. In the simulation section, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated. Moreover, compared to the search-based method represented by a variation of rapidly exploring random tree*, the proposed method has a higher planning performance.
Geometry-based finger kinematic models for joint rotation configuration and parameter estimation
Authors: Won Jong-Seob , Lee Seonhun
Published: June 2020

In this work, geometry-based finger kinematic models for joint rotation configuration are proposed. The purpose of the work is to provide an effective means of describing an individual-specific finger motion during flexion or extension movements as precisely as possible. Based on the finger’s geometric postures that are observed when fingers naturally grasp a cylindrical object with a circular cross-section, its geometric relation between each phalanx of a finger and the object is extracted, and forms of contact between them are taken into consideration to secure more degrees of freedom for representing finger motions and are parameterized in the model development. A parameter identification approach is adopted to find model parameters that can be used to describe an individual-specific grasping style. For the validation of the proposed models, a set of optical motion capture experiments is performed. From the simulation study, one can see that the models provide one of the feasible and viable solutions to imitate the human finger’s flexion and/or extension movements.
Effects on tactile transmission by serotonin transporter inhibitors at Merkel discs of mouse whisker hair follicles
Authors: Chang Weipang , Gu Jianguo G
Published: June 2020

The Merkel disc is a main type of tactile end organs formed by Merkel cells and Aβ-afferent endings as first tactile sensory synapses. They are highly abundant in fingertips, touch domes, and whisker hair follicles of mammals and are essential for sensory tasks including social interaction, environmental exploration, and tactile discrimination. We have recently shown that Merkel discs use serotonin to transmit tactile signals from Merkel cells to Aβ-afferent endings to drive slowly adapting type 1 impulses on the Aβ-afferent nerves. This raises a question as whether the serotoninergic transmission at Merkel discs may be regulated by serotonin transporters and whether serotonin transporter inhibitors may affect the tactile transmission. Here, we made recordings from whisker afferent nerves of mouse whisker hair follicles and tested the effects of monoamine transporter inhibitors on slowly adapting type 1 impulses. We show that methamphetamine, a monoamine releasing facilitator and reuptake inhibitor, elicited spontaneous impulses as well as increased the numbers of slowly adapting type 1 impulses elicited by whisker hair deflections. S-duloxetine, a potent inhibitor of transporters of serotonin and norepinephrine, and fluoxetine, a selective inhibitor of serotonin transporters, both also increased the numbers of slowly adapting type 1 impulses. Prolonged treatment of whisker hair follicles with methamphetamine abolished most of slowly adapting type 1 impulses. Furthermore, the treatment of whisker hair follicles with methamphetamine resulted in serotonin release from whisker hair follicles. Taken together, our results suggest that serotonin transporters play a role in regulating tactile transmission at Merkel discs.
Antimicrobial peptide LL-37 ameliorates a murine sepsis model via the induction of microvesicle release from neutrophils
Authors: Kumagai Yumi , Murakami Taisuke , Kuwahara-Arai  , Iba Toshiaki , Reich Johannes , Nagaoka Isao
Published: June 2020

Sepsis is a life-threatening disease caused by systemic dys-regulated inflammatory response to infection. We previously revealed that LL-37, a human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, improves the survival of cecal ligation and puncture septic mice. Ectosomes, microvesicles released from neutrophils, are reported to be elevated in sepsis survivors; however, the functions of ectosomes in sepsis remain largely unknown. Therefore, we herein elucidated the protective action of LL-37 on sepsis, by focusing on LL-37-induced ectosome release in a cecal ligation and puncture model. The results demonstrated the enhancement of ectosome levels by LL-37 administration, accompanied by a reduction of bacterial load. Importantly, ectosomes isolated from LL-37-injected cecal ligation and puncture mice contained higher amounts of antimicrobial proteins/peptides and exhibited higher antibacterial activity, compared with those from PBS-injected cecal ligation and puncture mice, suggesting that LL-37 induces the release of ectosomes with antibacterial potential in vivo. Actually, LL-37 stimulated mouse bone-marrow neutrophils to release ectosomes ex vivo, and the LL-37-induced ectosomes possessed antibacterial potential. Furthermore, administration of LL-37-induced ectosomes reduced the bacterial load and improved the survival of cecal ligation and puncture mice. Together these observations suggest LL-37 induces the release of antimicrobial ectosomes in cecal ligation and puncture mice, thereby reducing the bacterial load and protecting mice from lethal septic conditions.
Complete radiological response to first-line regorafenib in a patient with abdominal relapse of BRAF V600E mutated GIST
Authors: Nannini Margherita , Valerio Di Scioscio , Gruppioni Elisa , Altimari Annalisa , Chiusole Benedetta , Saponara Maristella , Pantaleo Maria Abbondanza , Brunello Antonella
Published: June 2020

Up to 13% of KIT and PDGFRA wild-type (WT) gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) harbour a BRAF mutation, mostly involving the exon 15 V600E hot spot. Even if BRAF mutation is recognized as druggable target in other solid tumours, currently advanced BRAF-mutant GIST share the same therapeutical algorithm of KIT/PDGFRA mutants.

We report a complete radiological response in a 51-year-old woman with V600E BRAF-mutated metastatic GIST who was treated with regorafenib (REG) as first-line therapy.

REG represents the standard third-line therapy for advanced GIST patients progressing on or failing to respond to imatinib and sunitinib. However, according to its wide spectrum of action, with MAPK signalling pathway blockade at different levels, metastatic KIT/PDGFRA WT, including BRAF mutants, may benefit from REG upfront in first line.
A new oral testosterone undecanoate therapy comes of age for the treatment of hypogonadal men
Authors: Swerdloff Ronald S. , Dudley Robert E.
Published: June 2020

Background:

A novel formulation of oral testosterone undecanoate (TU) was studied in a long- and short-term phase III trial to evaluate safety and efficacy.

Methods:

Hypogonadal men (age 18–65 years; two morning serum testosterone (T) <300 ng/dl with signs/symptoms) were recruited into a 365 day (trial I) or 105 day (trial II), randomized, multicenter trial. Patients were randomized 1:1 to oral TU ( n = 161) or T-gel ( n = 160) in trial I, and 3:1 to oral TU, twice daily (BID) JATENZO® ( n = 166) or a topical T product [Axiron® ( n = 56)] in trial II. Dose adjustments were based on average T concentrations ( Cavg). Efficacy was assessed based on T levels, body composition and bone density. Safety was assessed by standard clinical measures.

Results:

Oral TU efficacy (% of patients with eugonadal T Cavg) was 84% (serum Cavg = 628 ± 343 ng/dl) and 87% (serum T equivalent Cavg ≈ 489 ± 155 ng/dl) in trials I and II, respectively. Oral TU significantly ( p <0.0001) improved all Psychosexual Daily Questionnaire parameters in trials I and II. In trial I, lean mass increased 3.2 ± 2.7 kg and fat decreased by 2.4 ± 3.6 kg (both p <0.0001) and bone density improved in hip (+0.012 ± 0.0225 g/cm2) and spine (+0.018 ± 0.0422 g/cm2) after 365 days (both p <0.0001). Oral TU-associated adverse effects were consistent with other T-replacement therapies but oral TU patients experienced a greater number of mild gastrointestinal adverse effects. Oral TU subjects in both studies exhibited an increase in mean systolic blood pressure of about 3–5 mmHg. Oral TU was not associated with liver toxicity nor did it cause an elevation in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein or lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (cardiovascular safety biomarkers) after 365 days of therapy.

Conclusion:

A new oral TU formulation was safe and effective and represents a significant therapeutic advance for the treatment of appropriate hypogonadal men.
Wideband absorber based on conductive ink frequency selective surface with polarization insensitivity and wide-incident-angle stability
Authors: Deng Guangsheng , Lv Kun , Sun Hanxiao , Hong Yuan , Zhang Xiaoying , Yin Zhiping , Yang Jun
Published: June 2020

In this article, a wideband, polarization-insensitive, and wide-incident-angle stable absorber based on conductive ink frequency selective surface is presented. The presented absorber is compatible with screen printing technology. The design and absorption principle of the proposed absorber is presented, and simulation analysis is conducted. The simulation results show that in the frequency range 6.58–16.38 GHz, the absorptivity of the proposed absorber is greater than 90%, while the relative absorption bandwidth is 85.4%. The whole absorber structure is relatively thin, having a total thickness of 3.3 mm, corresponding to 0.126λ0 at its center frequency. In addition, for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic incident waves, the proposed absorber achieves the absorptivity of more than 80% at the incident angle of up to 45°. A prototype of the proposed absorber is fabricated and used in experimental verification. The obtained experimental results show a good agreement with the numerical simulations. This absorber has great potential applications in the field of microwave sensing and absorbing.
Agrarian crisis and neoliberalism in India
Authors: Mishra Deepak K.
Published: June 2020

The nature and manifestations of the rural and agrarian distress in India point to the disastrous, class-specific nature of neoliberal economic policies. A significant aspect of this process is its spatial dimensions – the various ways through which uneven development has been the cornerstone of the unfolding dynamics of economic growth in globalizing India. The prolonged agrarian crisis, fuelled by neoliberal economic policies, has created a crisis of survival in the rural areas. It has uprooted a class of cultivators and agricultural labourers, who have joined the informal economy as insecure, vulnerable workers.
Seeing Suppresses Haptic Pleasure While Perceiving Contemporary Art
Authors: Szubielska Magdalena , Niestorowicz Ewa
Published: June 2020

To date, haptic aesthetic processing has been tested outside the field of real works of art. By providing the context of a contemporary art exhibition designed to be touched, we studied haptic pleasure towards artworks. In line with our hypothesis, seeing affected the evaluation of haptic pleasure which was higher in the blindfolded-tactile than visuo-tactile condition. Thus, seeing seems to impede the tactile processing of artworks.