bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C-band Dual-Polarization Radar Signatures of Wet Downbursts around Cape Canaveral, Florida
Authors: Amiot Corey G. , Carey Lawrence D. , Roeder William P. , McNamara Todd M. , Blakeslee Richard J.
Published: December 2018

Wind warnings are the second-most-frequent advisory issued by the U.S. Air Force’s 45th Weather Squadron (45WS) at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Given the challenges associated with nowcasting convection in Florida during the warm season, improvements in 45WS warnings for convective wind events are desired. This study aims to explore the physical bases of dual-polarization radar signatures within wet downbursts around Cape Canaveral and identify signatures that may assist the 45WS during real-time convective wind nowcasting. Data from the 45WS’s C-band dual-polarization radar were subjectively analyzed within an environmental context, with quantitative wind measurements recorded by weather tower sensors for 32 threshold-level downbursts with near-surface winds ≥ 35 kt (1 kt ≈ 0.51 m s−1) and 32 null downbursts. Five radar signatures were identified in threshold-level downburst-producing storms: peak height of 1-dB differential reflectivity ZDR column, peak height of precipitation ice signature, peak reflectivity, height below 0°C level where ZDR increases to 3 dB within a descending reflectivity core (DRC), and vertical ZDR gradient within DRC. Examining these signatures directly in updraft–downdraft cycles that produced threshold-level winds yielded mean lead times of 20.0–28.2 min for cumulus and mature stage signatures and 12.8–14.9 min for dissipating stage signatures, with higher signature test values generally yielding higher skill scores. A conceptual test of utilizing signatures within earlier cells in multicell storms to indirectly predict the potential for intense downbursts in later cells was performed, which offered increased lead times and skill scores for an Eulerian forecast region downstream from the storm initiation location.
The evolution of inter-regional spatial mismatch in the USA: The role of skills and spatial structure
Authors: Theys Tobias , Deschacht Nick , Adriaenssens Stef , Verhaest Dieter
Published: December 2018

The literature on spatial mismatch often focuses on a mismatch within cities or local labour markets. This paper looks at the spatial mismatch between local labour markets. Using US data, we study the evolution of inter-regional mismatch between 1980 and 2010 and how this evolution varies across skill levels. Since we expect the spatial structure of supply and demand in the labour market to play a central role at this geographical level, we develop an extension of the spatial mismatch index, as the standard version does not take this spatial structure into account. Our results indicate that spatial mismatch has been increasing over the past decades, an increase that is largely attributable to spatial structure effects. The inter-regional spatial mismatch mainly affects low-skilled jobs and workers: our findings suggest that the degree of the spatial mismatch for low-skilled, relative to high-skilled workers, increased from a ratio of two in 1980 to almost four in 2010.
Gendered Pathways to Prison in Thailand for Drug Offending? Exploring Women’s and Men’s Narratives of Offending and Criminalization
Authors: Jeffries Samantha , Chuenurah Chontit , Wallis Rebecca
Published: December 2018

In criminology, there is a growing body of research exploring pathways into prison. However, few researchers have concerned themselves with qualitative gender-comparative studies of women’s and men’s journeys to offending and criminalization. Further, little is known about trajectories into non-Western prison systems. In this article, life course and feminist pathways perspectives are drawn on to describe, examine, and compare women’s and men’s pathways to prison for drug offending in Thailand. Overall, findings point to both similarities and divergences in experiences by gender. Four common themes or pathways to prison emerged for both women and men: (1) adverse childhood experiences, (2) peer-group association, (3) economic motivation, and (4) male deception and exploitation. However, gendered variance was found within these common pathways.
Sheep With the Homozygous Lysine-171 Prion Protein Genotype Are Resistant to Classical Scrapie After Experimental Oronasal Inoculation
Authors: Cassmann Eric D. , Moore Sarah Jo , Smith Jodi D. , Greenlee Justin J.
Published: December 2018

Scrapie is a fatal neurodegenerative disease of sheep resulting from the accumulation of a misfolded form of the prion protein (PrPSc). Polymorphisms in the host prion protein gene ( PRNP) can affect susceptibility to the scrapie agent. Lysine (K) at codon 171 of PRNP is an inadequately characterized, naturally occurring polymorphism in sheep. We inoculated Barbado sheep with PRNP genotypes QQ171, QK171, or KK171 by either the intracranial (IC, n = 2–7 per genotype) or oronasal (ON, n = 5 per genotype) routes with a scrapie isolate to investigate the effect of lysine at codon 171 on susceptibility. When neurologic signs were observed or at the end of the experiment (70 months postinoculation [MPI]), sheep were necropsied and tissue collected for histopathologic, immunohistochemical, enzyme immunoassay and Western blot examination for PrPSc. All genotypes of sheep developed scrapie after IC inoculation. After ON inoculation, sheep with the QK171 genotype had prolonged incubation periods compared to the QQ genotype. During the experiment, 2 of 5 of the ON-inoculated QK genotype sheep developed neurologic signs and had PrPSc in the brain. The other 3 of 5 sheep were asymptomatic at 70 MPI but had detectable PrPSc in peripheral tissues. None of the ON-inoculated sheep of the KK171 genotype developed signs or had detectable PrPSc. Our experiments demonstrate that sheep with the KK171 genotype are resistant to scrapie via oronasal exposure and that sheep with the QK171 genotype have prolonged incubation relative to QQ171 sheep. The K171 prion protein allele may be useful to enhance scrapie resistance in certain breeds of sheep.
Safety and Effectiveness of Intravenous Chlorpromazine for Agitation in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Choi Mia , Barra Megan E. , Newman Kelly , Sin Jonathan H.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Agitation is common in the intensive care unit (ICU). Although antipsychotics are frequently used as first-line therapy, chlorpromazine has fallen out of favor due to risk of cardiovascular complications and severe hypotension. Although chlorpromazine is used anecdotally, there is a lack of data regarding its safety and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to investigate the use of intravenous (IV) chlorpromazine for agitation in the ICU setting.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed at a tertiary care academic medical center. Patients were included if they received IV chlorpromazine in the ICU for agitation, infused at a rate of 1 mg/min. Primary end points were change in systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) within 4 hours of administration. Secondary end points included change in vasopressor and adjunct sedative medication requirements, achievement of Richmond-Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) 0 to −1, and incidence of cardiac arrhythmias.

Results:

A total of 39 patients encompassing 107 IV chlorpromazine administrations were included. The median dose was 25 mg. Median vital signs prior to infusion were SBP 129 mm Hg, HR 90 beats/minute, and MAP 88 mm Hg. Over the subsequent 4 hours, SBP and HR did not change significantly ( P = .83 and P = .10, respectively). Mean arterial pressure decreased from a median of 88 to 83 mm Hg ( P = .04). There were no significant changes in vasopressor requirements, adjunct sedative medication requirements, or achievement of RASS goal. No patients developed symptomatic cardiac arrhythmias.

Conclusion:

In our small retrospective study, the use of IV chlorpromazine at routine doses did not result in clinically significant hemodynamic changes when infused at a rate of 1 mg/min. Intravenous chlorpromazine may be considered as a potential treatment option for agitation in ICU patients with appropriate monitoring.
On Time and Planning: Opening Futures by Cultivating a “Sense of Now”
Authors: Laurian Lucie , Inch Andy
Published: December 2018

Planning seeks to shape sociospatial outcomes but is also, by nature, future oriented. Yet, planning theory and practice have paid relatively little attention to ongoing debates about changing social relations to time. Building on a wide range of disciplines, we review the multiple temporalities through which lives are lived, the modern imposition of clock time, postmodern acceleration phenomena in the Anthropocene, and their implications for planning’s relationship to the past, present, and future and for planning theory. We discuss how thinking more and differently about time might challenge and improve planning by helping theory do better justice to the complexity of practice. We conclude by outlining eight propositions for rethinking planning’s relationship to time.
A methodology for flexibility analysis of pipeline systems
Authors: Zahid Umer , Khan Sohaib Z , Khan Muhammad A , Bukhari Hassan J , Nisar Salman , Khan Kamran A
Published: December 2018

Pipeline systems serve a crucial role in an effective transport of fluids to the designated location for medium to long span of distances. Owing to its paramount economic significance, pipeline design field have undergone extensive development over the past few years for enhancing the optimization and transport efficiency. This research paper attempts to propose a methodology for flexibility analysis of pipeline systems through employing contemporary computational tools and practices. A methodical procedure is developed, which involves modeling of the selected pipeline system in CAESAR II followed by the insertion of pipe supports and restraints. The specific location and selection of the inserted supports is based on the results derived from the displacement, stress, reaction, and nozzle analysis of the concerned pipeline system. Emphasis is laid on the compliance of the design features to the leading code of pipeline transportation systems for liquid and slurries, ASME B31.4. The discussed procedure and approach can be successfully adjusted for the analysis of various other types of pipeline system configuration. In addition to the provision of systematic flow in analysis, the method also improves efficient time-saving practices in the pipeline stress analysis.
When Learning Sinks In: Using the Incubation Model of Teaching to Guide Students Through the Creative Thinking Process
Authors: Hines Margaret Easom , Catalana Sarah Marie , Anderson Brittany N.
Published: December 2018

While creativity has traditionally been an essential component of gifted education, the majority of creative teaching strategies neglect to address its multifaceted nature. As a result, attempts to encourage creativity are often fractured, and gifted students struggle to recognize how academic content and creativity go hand-in-hand. This article explores how the incubation model of teaching (IMT) can be used to encourage creativity from start to finish, while delivering challenging academic content (Torrance, 1979, Torrance & Safter, 1990). Emphasis is placed on the value of incubation, which is characterized by a resistance to closure and open-mindedness to consider ideas from multiple points of view. Encouraging incubation not only promotes ownership of learning, but also paves the way for moments of creative inspiration to occur. Discussion of both theoretical and practical implications of the model illustrates how the IMT can be used to guide students through the creative thinking process in a variety of diverse settings.
Preferences over Public Good, Political Delegation, and Leadership in Tax Competition
Authors: Pal Rupayan , Sharma Ajay
Published: December 2018

Leadership (sequential choice) and political delegation are two mechanisms suggested to restrict “race-to-the-bottom” in tax competition. In this article, we analyze whether these two mechanisms when combined together would lead to unilaterally higher taxation or not. We show that political delegation with leadership in tax competition not only restricts race-to-the-bottom but also mitigates the possibility of overprovision of public good. In sequential choice game, only the follower region delegates taxation power to the policy maker but not the leader region. This puts a check on intensity of tax competition and restricts the under provision of public good.
Increased subchondral bone thickness in hips with cam-type femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Bieri Martina , Beck Martin , Limacher Andreas , Wyatt Michael C , Leunig Michael , Jüni Peter , Reichenbach Stephan
Published: December 2018

Objectives:

Increased thickness of subchondral acetabular bone with associated articular cartilage thinning in hips with femoroacetabular (FAI) cam impingement has been observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Dynamic attrition by the cam deformity moving into the acetabulum may potentiate trans-articular shear stresses thus causing these subchondral bone changes. We aimed to quantify the hypertrophic changes of subchondral acetabular bone in patients with cam-type FAI.

Methods:

MRI studies were performed on an asymptomatic population of young Swiss army recruits. Subjects underwent clinical examination and completed questionnaires before undergoing an MRI of the hip. Cam deformities were graded and the dimensions of the acetabular subchondral bone quantified. Univariate linear regression was used to determine the association between the presence of cam deformities and the degree of subchondral acetabular sclerosis.

Results:

There was a strong association between cam deformities and the thickness, area and shape of subchondral sclerosis. The main increase in hypertrophy was observed in the antero-superior acetabulum where impingement typically occurs. The subchondral sclerosis was 0.66 mm thicker in cam-type deformities than in hips without cam-type deformities (95% CI, 0.38–0.93, p value < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Mechanical stress in the antero-superior acetabular area is elevated in hips with a cam-type deformity. The study supports the concept that cam-type deformity induced stress leads to hypertrophy of subchondral acetabular bone in the area of impingement. This is collocated with the clinically observed cartilage damage caused by the cam mechanism.
The Boundaries of Trust: Cross-Religious and Cross-Ethnic Field Experiments in Mauritius
Authors: Shaver John H. , Lang Martin , Krátký Jan , Klocová Eva Kundtová , Kundt Radek , Xygalatas Dimitris
Published: December 2018

Several prominent evolutionary theories contend that religion was critical to the emergence of large-scale societies and encourages cooperation in contemporary complex groups. These theories argue that religious systems provide a reliable mechanism for finding trustworthy anonymous individuals under conditions of risk. In support, studies find that people displaying cues of religious identity are more likely to be trusted by anonymous coreligionists. However, recent research has found that displays of religious commitment can increase trust across religious divides. These findings are puzzling from the perspective that religion emerges to regulate coalitions. To date, these issues have not been investigated outside of American undergraduate samples nor have studies considered how religious identities interact with other essential group-membership signals, such as ancestry, to affect intergroup trust. Here, we address these issues and compare religious identity, ancestry, and trust among and between Christians and Hindus living in Mauritius. Ninety-seven participants rated the trustworthiness of faces, and in a modified trust game distributed money among these faces, which varied according to religious and ethnic identity. In contrast to previous research, we find that markers of religious identity increase monetary investments only among in-group members and not across religious divides. Moreover, out-group religious markers on faces of in-group ancestry decrease reported trustworthiness. These findings run counter to recent studies collected in the United States and suggest that local socioecologies influence the relationships between religion and trust. We conclude with suggestions for future research and a discussion of the challenges of conducting field experiments with remote populations.
Performance of chip-on-board and surface-mounted high-power LED luminaires at different relative humidities and temperatures
Authors: Raul D , Ghosh K
Published: December 2018

In today's world, light-emitting diodes are quickly replacing conventional light sources, both indoors and outdoors. Being a solid-state device, adverse ambient conditions such as high temperature and humidity lead to its poor performances, light quality and longevity. In outdoor applications, exposure to high ambient temperature during daytime, even when the lamp power is off, causes the lamp performance to deteriorate. In tropical countries, the environmental temperature in most of the days is higher than 25℃ and sometimes reaches 50℃. Here, the humidity varies between 30% and 80% and frequently over 80%. Thus, the reliability of the light emitting diodes is a question that needs a thorough study. In line with this, in this study, an effort has been made through an experiment. Here, commercially available surface-mounted device and chip-on-board-based light-emitting diodes are tested through an environmental chamber, and their measured illuminance values were observed by varying the relative humidity. Then, the temperature ageing or stress was set at 60℃ on the above types of light-emitting diodes at power off condition for 6000 hours and after that its luminous flux and spectral distribution were observed. The degradation observed under these conditions may guide designers and manufacturers to upgrade their lighting systems to make them fit for tropical conditions.
A prototyping tool for kinetic mechanism design and fabrication: Developing and deploying M.Sketch for science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics education
Authors: Kim Han-Jong , Jeong Yunwoo , Kim Ju-Whan , Nam Tek-Jin
Published: December 2018

Recently, the demand for designing mechanism-embedded artifacts has increased in personal digital fabrication. However, it is difficult for nonexperts without engineering knowledge to design and build a prototype with a kinetic mechanism. We present M.Sketch, a prototyping tool that helps nonexperts to design and build linkage-based kinetic mechanisms. It enables the user to easily configure the linkage-based mechanism with a simple interface applying a geometry drawing metaphor. The tool features computational support, including interactive visualization, top-down optimization, and connection to digital fabrication, to obtain and build the desired movement. In order to support science–art integrated science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education related to digital fabrication of interactive artifacts, we deployed M.Sketch in design workshops and student contests of walking robot design. The participants in the contests were able to successfully design and build walking robots with the Theo-Jansen mechanism using various support features of M.Sketch. Based on the development and deployment in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics educational domains, we figured out several implications, and further improvement points of prototyping tools supporting nonexperts in designing mechanism-embedded interactive artifacts.
Influence of multiscale visual information on driver’s perceived speed in highway tunnels
Authors: Zheng Zhanji , Du Zhigang , Xiang Qiaojun , Chen Guojun
Published: December 2018

Speed illusion is the leading contributing factor to traffic accidents in highway tunnels. This study aimed to estimate the influence of visual information at different scales and frequencies on drivers’ visual perception and driving safety in highway tunnels. The speed perception of drivers was measured using the stimulus of subjectively equivalent speeds as an index. Thirty drivers were recruited to conduct a psychophysical experiment on speed perception using a driving simulator. The large-, medium- and small-scale visual information in a frequency range of 0.1–32 Hz were used in the experimental scene to generate scenes for comparison. The results show that high-frequency visual information (2–32 Hz) might lead to driver overestimation of vehicle speed in tunnels, while medium-frequency (0.4–1 Hz) and low-frequency (0.1–0.2 Hz) visual information contribute to speed underestimation. The medium-scale information had the largest speed overestimation effect, followed by large- and small-scale information (significant differences of 2–8 Hz). Medium-scale visual information below 8 Hz had the lowest degree of dispersion of speed perception. Therefore, the use of integrated high-frequency, medium-scale visual information and medium-frequency, large- and small-scale visual information is suggested to reduce the speed illusion of drivers and ensure driving safety.
Prediction model of demand for public bicycle rental based on land use
Authors: Zhang Shuichao , Zhou Zhuping , Hao Haiming , Zhou Jibiao
Published: December 2018

Land use is a primary factor affecting the demand for public bicycle rentals. Demand for public bicycle rentals during different periods of time were predicted using the following procedures. First, walking distances from the rental stations where riders returned the public bicycles to the final destinations were obtained by field investigation, and the 85th percentile statistical values were used as the scopes of influence of those stations. Then, a relationship model among the rental demands for public bicycles and the features of land use inside the influence scope of the rental station was established based on a linear regression model. Finally, considering the public bicycle system in the old urban region of Zhenhai in Ningbo city, the newly established prediction model for rental demand was tested. Results show that the model can predict the daily rental demand, rental demand during the morning peak, returns during the morning peak, rental demands during the evening peak, and returns during the evening peak. The demand prediction model can provide a significant theoretical basis for preparing the layout stations, operation and management strategies, and vehicle scheduling in the public bicycle system.
Improving spatial working memory in blind and sighted youngsters using programmable tactile displays
Authors: Leo Fabrizio , Tinti Carla , Chiesa Silvia , Cavaglià Roberta , Schmidt Susanna , Cocchi Elena , Brayda Luca
Published: December 2018

Objective:

To investigate whether training with tactile matrices displayed with a programmable tactile display improves recalling performance of spatial images in blind, low-vision and sighted youngsters. To code and understand the behavioral underpinnings of learning two-dimensional tactile dispositions, in terms of spontaneous exploration strategies.

Methods:

Three groups of blind, low-vision and sighted youngsters between 6 and 18 years old performed four training sessions with a weekly schedule in which they were asked to memorize single or double spatial layouts, featured as two-dimensional matrices.

Results:

Results showed that all groups of participants significantly improved their recall performance compared to the first session baseline in the single-matrix task. No statistical difference in performance between groups emerged in this task. Instead, the learning effect in visually impaired participants is reduced in the double-matrix task, whereas it is still robust in blindfolded sighted controls. We also coded tactile exploration strategies in both tasks and their correlation with performance. Sighted youngsters, in particular, favored a proprioceptive exploration strategy. Finally, performance in the double-matrix task negatively correlated with using one hand and positively correlated with a proprioceptive strategy.

Conclusion:

The results of our study indicate that blind persons do not easily process two separate spatial layouts. However, rehabilitation programs promoting bi-manual and proprioceptive approaches to tactile exploration might help improve spatial abilities. Finally, programmable tactile displays are an effective way to make spatial and graphical configurations accessible to visually impaired youngsters and they can be profitably exploited in rehabilitation.
‘Shanghai is burning’: Extravaganza, transgender representation and transnational cinema
Authors: Bao Hongwei
Published: December 2018

This article offers a critical analysis of Matthew Baren’s 2018 film Extravaganza, a documentary about drag scenes in Shanghai. By focusing on some drag performers represented in this film, in tandem with an examination of the social and industry contexts of the film, as well as my interviews with the filmmaker and performers, I problematise the gender identity of the performers and the national identity of the film. Drawing on Deleuze and Guattari’s notion of ‘becoming’ and Song Hwee Lim’s discussion of ‘trans’, I propose to think about certain modes of transnational production with the critical concept of ‘becoming trans’. ‘Becoming trans’ offers a productive way of conceptualising new modes of ‘minor’ transnational cinematic connections in a globalised world without having to resort to identity politics.
College Readiness Counseling to Promote Native American Adolescents’ College Aspirations: The Integrated Conceptual Model of Student Success
Authors: Turner Sherri L. , Joeng Ju Ri , Mason-Chagil Gale , Conkel-Ziebell Julia L. , Dade Shari N. , Kim Ryoka
Published: December 2018

Based on the Integrated Conceptual Model of Student Success, we used structural equation modeling (path analysis) to test a model of college readiness counseling for Native American high school students. Results indicated that college readiness counseling and achievement motivation predicted achievement, while parent support and school climate predicted achievement motivation. The effect of school climate on achievement was fully mediated by achievement motivation. Only achievement predicted college aspirations. We discuss implications for college readiness counseling.
Exploring the Job Duties That Impact School Counselor Wellness: The Role of RAMP, Supervision, and Support
Authors: Randick Nicole M. , Dermer Shannon , Michel Rebecca E.
Published: December 2018

The authors examined the predictive relationship between the performance of job duties informed by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and overall wellness of school counselors. We also examined the relationship between organizational factors (i.e., Recognized ASCA Model Program, supervision, and support), the frequency of job duties performed, and overall wellness. The results revealed a predictive relationship between some of the job duties school counselors perform and wellness. We provide implications for school counseling practice and training programs.
Spatial Release From Informational Masking: Evidence From Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Min , Mary Ying Yu-Lan , Ihlefeld Antje
Published: December 2018

Informational masking (IM) can greatly reduce speech intelligibility, but the neural mechanisms underlying IM are not understood. Binaural differences between target and masker can improve speech perception. In general, improvement in masked speech intelligibility due to provision of spatial cues is called spatial release from masking. Here, we focused on an aspect of spatial release from masking, specifically, the role of spatial attention. We hypothesized that in a situation with IM background sound (a) attention to speech recruits lateral frontal cortex (LFCx) and (b) LFCx activity varies with direction of spatial attention. Using functional near infrared spectroscopy, we assessed LFCx activity bilaterally in normal-hearing listeners. In Experiment 1, two talkers were simultaneously presented. Listeners either attended to the target talker (speech task) or they listened passively to an unintelligible, scrambled version of the acoustic mixture (control task). Target and masker differed in pitch and interaural time difference (ITD). Relative to the passive control, LFCx activity increased during attentive listening. Experiment 2 measured how LFCx activity varied with ITD, by testing listeners on the speech task in Experiment 1, except that talkers either were spatially separated by ITD or colocated. Results show that directing of auditory attention activates LFCx bilaterally. Moreover, right LFCx is recruited more strongly in the spatially separated as compared with colocated configurations. Findings hint that LFCx function contributes to spatial release from masking in situations with IM.
Influence of HIV Infection on the Natural History of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Results From a Global Multicohort Study
Authors: Pinato David J. , Allara Elias , Chen Ting-Yi , Trevisani Franco , Minguez Beatriz , Zoli Marco , Harris Marianne , Dalla Pria Alessia , Merchante Nicolás , Platt Heather , Jain Mamta , Caturelli Eugenio , Kikuchi Luciana , Pineda Juan , Nelson Mark , Farinati Fabio , Rapaccini Gian Ludovico , Aytaman Ayse , Yin Michael , Tan Chee-Kiat , Bower Mark , Giannini Edoardo G. , Bräu Norbert ,   the Liver Cancer in HIV and ITA.LI.CA Study Groups
Published: December 2018

PURPOSE

Conflicting evidence indicates that HIV seropositivity may influence the outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a leading cause of mortality in people with HIV. We aimed to verify whether HIV affected the overall survival (OS) of patients with HCC, independent of treatment and geographic origin.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We designed an international multicohort study of patients with HCC accrued from four continents who did not receive any anticancer treatment. We estimated the effect of HIV seropositivity on patients’ OS while accounting for common prognostic factors and demographic characteristics in uni- and multivariable models.

RESULTS

A total of 1,588 patients were recruited, 132 of whom were HIV positive. Most patients clustered within Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) C or D criteria (n = 1,168 [74%]) and Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) class B (median score, 7; interquartile range [IQR], 3). At HCC diagnosis, the majority of patients who were HIV-positive (n = 65 [64%]) had been on antiretrovirals for a median duration of 8.3 years (IQR, 8.59 years) and had median CD4+ cell counts of 256 (IQR, 284) with undetectable HIV RNA (n = 68 [52%]). OS decreased significantly throughout BCLC stages 0 to D (16, 12, 7.5, 3.1, and 3 months, respectively; P < .001). Median OS of patients who were HIV-positive was one half that of their HIV-uninfected counterparts (2.2 months [bootstrap 95% CI, 1.2 to 3.1 months] v 4.1 months [95% CI, 3.6 to 4.4 months]). In adjusted analyses, HIV seropositivity increased the hazard of death by 24% ( P = .0333) independent of BCLC ( P < .0001), CTP ( P < .0001), α-fetoprotein ( P < .0001), geographical origin ( P < .0001), and male sex ( P = .0016). Predictors of worse OS in patients who were HIV-positive included CTP ( P = .0071) and α-fetoprotein ( P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Despite adequate antiretroviral treatment, HIV seropositivity is associated with decreased survival in HCC, independent of stage, anticancer treatment, and geographical origin. Mechanistic studies investigating the immunobiology of HIV-associated HCC are urgently required.
The contribution of industrial minerals to solving environmental issues
Authors: Calvo Jose P. , Garcia-Lorenzo Mari Luz
Published: December 2018

Mitigation of environmental issues and decontamination of land by using a variety of industrial minerals mainly immobilizes contaminants in solution, whether in polluted water or contaminated soils and sediments. That is because a variety of minerals, in particular carbonates, clays and zeolites, have a significant capacity to ad/absorb harmful ions and to react to form precipitates. Phosphates, iron hydroxides, some silica minerals and lime-derived products can also be used to solve environmental issues. This paper focuses on the amendment of soils and sediments affected by the impact of mining or by waste landfills, with some reference to the use of minerals in cultural heritage conservation. An example of actions leading to the amelioration of contaminated land is provided after describing some current pilot experiences  on highly polluted wastes derived from mining in SE Spain.
Case Report: Synchronous adenoid cystic variant of basal cell carcinoma in the right lumbar region: case report of an incidental finding in a patient with breast carcinoma
Authors: Gandhe Sucheta , Patil Rahul , Nagarkar Rajnish
Published: December 2018

Skin cancer has emerged as a major problem for light-skinned people globally. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common forms of skin cancer. BCC is associated with significant morbidity. There are multiple histological patterns of BCC, wherein the adenoid cystic variant is a rare form. A 75-year-old female with a history of breast carcinoma visited our centre for a routine follow-up. The patient was diagnosed with invasive breast carcinoma and underwent left breast conservation surgery in August 2018. At follow-up, the patient complained of itchiness, redness, and ulceration over a long-standing mole located at the right lumbar region. The lesion was excised and histopathologically diagnosed as the adenoid cystic variant of BCC. Adenoid cystic variant of BCC is an uncommon presentation. Identifying the mole in the lumbar region with clinical signs and symptoms was an incidental finding. In most cases, skin moles are benign. However, this case is of considerable interest as the patient presented with two primary cancers of different pathological characteristics within 3 months. The patient is currently doing well and is due for follow-up.
Reliability and validity of non-radiological measures of thoracic kyphosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Lee Annemarie L , Goldstein Roger S , Rhim Matthew , Chan Christen , Brooks Dina , Zabjek Karl
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims:

Thoracic kyphosis in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be measured from digital photogrammetry or three-dimensional motion capture. This study aimed to determine the reliability, validity and agreement for non-radiological measures of thoracic kyphosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods:

A total of 19 participants with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were included. Cobb angles from chest radiographs and spinous process landmarks using photogrammetry and three-dimensional motion capture were evaluated.

Findings:

The mean kyphosis (± standard deviation) was 48.8 ± 10.9 degrees by radiograph; 49.6 ± 12.9 degrees by three-dimensional motion capture and 52.2 ± 11.1 degrees by photogrammetry. Radiographic Cobb angle and photogrammetry measurements demonstrated excellent intra- and inter-rater reliability. Correlation between non-radiological kyphosis measurements and chest radiographs was strong (Pearson's r2 >0.75 for both). Limits of agreement between radiographs and 3D motion capture were –9 degrees to 7 degrees, and –12 to 8 degrees between radiographs and photogrammetry.

Conclusions:

Non-radiological measures of thoracic kyphosis are reliable and valid in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Factors Affecting Ultrastructural Quality in the Prefrontal Cortex of the Postmortem Human Brain
Authors: Glausier Jill R. , Konanur Anisha , Lewis David A.
Published: December 2018

Electron microscopy (EM) studies of the postmortem human brain provide a level of resolution essential for understanding brain function in both normal and disease states. However, processes associated with death can impair the cellular and organelle ultrastructural preservation required for quantitative EM studies. Although postmortem interval (PMI), the time between death and preservation of tissue, is thought to be the most influential factor of ultrastructural quality, numerous other factors may also influence tissue preservation. The goal of the present study was to assess the effects of pre- and postmortem factors on multiple components of ultrastructure in the postmortem human prefrontal cortex. Tissue samples from 30 subjects were processed using standard EM histochemistry. The primary dependent measure was number of identifiable neuronal profiles, and secondary measures included presence and/or integrity of synapses, mitochondria, and myelinated axonal fibers. Number of identifiable neuronal profiles was most strongly affected by the interaction of PMI and pH, such that short PMIs and neutral pH values predicted the best preservation. Secondary measures were largely unaffected by pre- and postmortem factors. Together, these data indicate that distinct components of the neuropil are differentially affected by PMI and pH in postmortem human brain.
Enhanced Alkaloid Production from Cell Culture System of Catharanthus roseus in Combined Effect of Nutrient Salts, Sucrose and Plant Growth Regulators
Authors: Mishra Malay Ranjan , Srivastava Rajesh Kumar , Akhtar Nasim
Published: December 2018

Callus and biomass culture of Catharanthus roseus L. were established to check for the presence of total alkaloid and its subsequent yield. Various treatments like strength of nutrient salts, sucrose concentrations and combinations of plant growth regulators (PGR’s) were applied to both MS and B5 in agar as well as suspension medium to test their effects on enhanced alkaloid content and its yield. There was no significant difference in any of the observable parameters of fresh wt, dry wt, alkaloid content, production, productivity and yield if the culture were treated similarly in both types of media formulations (MS or B5 salts). Physical state (agar solidified or the liquid suspension) of the medium had significant effect on all the parameters particular on fresh wt, alkaloid content and yields. Although, the fresh wt. and dry wt. of biomass in suspension culture was 2-3 times less than that of callus obtained from agar medium. However, the alkaloid content and yield was 2-3 times higher in suspension culture compared to agar medium in similar treatments. The highest alkaloid content observed was 5.67mg/g dwt in B5 suspension medium containing 3% sucrose and modified with 0.5mg/l 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) + 1 mg/l Kinetin (KIN) + 2mg/l α- naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). The combined effects of these factors on the enhanced production of total alkaloids were expected to contain higher yield of anticancer vinblastine and vincristine in the cell suspension culture system.
Thwarting Plagiarism in the Humanities Classroom: Storyboards, Scaffolding, and a Death Fair
Authors: Hale Mary
Published: December 2018

Best practices research on plagiarism in the University classroom shows that modifying assignments and classroom environment can have a positive effect on lowering a student’s desire to cheat.  James Lang suggests four features of a learning environment that can be fostered to ameliorate a student’s desire to cheat: mastery of the material for its own sake, low-stakes assignments, intrinsic motivations for learning and, a high expectation of success.  Scaffolding has been shown to be a useful pedagogical technique for empowering students (fostering a high expectation of success) My past experience using a variety of visual classroom exercises (cartooning, mind-mapping, advertising campaigns, etc.) gave anecdotal evidence that artistic and visual assignments encouraged a level of engagement and collaboration across language and cultural boundaries not experienced in other types of assignments.  I hypothesized that this level of engagement and collaboration could be used with scaffolding to motivate Lang’s four features and experimented with the use of poster presentations and other visual and spatial assignments in a second year undergraduate Religious Studies course on Death.  Very preliminary qualitative data support the hypothesis that, by addressing Lang’s four features and incorporating scaffolding and visual assignments into the course, students are cheating less and learning more. This research strengthens the extant literature on the impact class environment and expectations have on plagiarism while also adding to the growing body of literature supporting the use of visual assignments, such as poster presentations, mind mapping, and storyboards in the Arts and Humanities.
Beyond Content: The Value of Instructor-Student Connections in the Online Classroom
Authors: Mandernach B. Jean , Robertson Sarah Nicole , Steele John Paul
Published: December 2018

Research clearly establishes the value of online education to foster students’ cognitive understanding of course material. However, engagement in the learning experience requires more than mere acquisition of new knowledge; to be fully engaged in the learning process, students must also connect with their peers and instructor in a meaningful way. The purpose of this study is to examine the value of instructor-personalized audio lectures as means of fostering students’ engagement with course content and the online learning experience. Qualitative data on the student experience found that instructor-personalized audio lectures enhanced students’ perceptions of value and engagement; quantitative data using a standardized engagement measure revealed no significant differences. Students’ qualitative feedback about their online learning experience indicated that instructor-personalized audio lectures fostered greater student-instructor connections and significantly impacted the likelihood of students’ engaging with course material. Recognizing the value of student engagement for ongoing satisfaction and retention in online learning programs, findings suggest that the creation of personalized audio lectures provides an efficient and effective means for faculty to positively impact students’ online learning experience.
Building Capacities for Transdisciplinary Research: Challenges and Recommendations for Early-Career Researchers
Authors: Jaeger-Erben Melanie , Kramm Johanna , Sonnberger Marco , Völker Carolin , Albert Christian , Graf Antonia , Hermans Kathleen , Lange Steffen , Santarius Tilman , Schröter Barbara , Sievers-Glotzbach Stefanie , Winzer Janis
Published: December 2018

Transdisciplinary research is intriguing and challenging. Early-career researchers in particular, who lack experience and are still working on their disciplinary standing, struggle with difficulties and uncertainties. We offer insights into the challenges faced and solutions found by
seven transdisciplinary junior research groups.While transdisciplinarity offers a way to tackle complex social-ecological challenges, transdisciplinary research is a challenging task in itself. The integration of research methods across academic disciplines, the collaboration between researchers
and practitioners, and the need to balance societal and disciplinary academic impacts pose many difficulties even to experienced applied scientists and even more so to early-career researchers. Young scholars face particular problems, given their lack of longer-term experience and their still
fragile position within academia. Drawing on existing literature, an early-career researcher workshop, and our own experience as junior research group leaders, we discuss specific challenges and respective solution strategies of transdisciplinary research within the context of sustainability.
Ziele, Strukturen, Wirkungen transformativer Forschung
Authors: Stelzer Franziska , Becker Sophia , Timm Jana , Adomßent Maik , Simon Karl-Heinz , Schneidewind Uwe , Renn Ortwin , Lang Daniel , Ernst Andreas
Published: December 2018

Der NaWis-Verbund will Impulse für eine transdisziplinäre und transformative Wissenschaft geben. Dafür wollen die Partnerinstitutionen Forschungsmethoden entwickeln und diese in gesellschaftlich relevanten Problemfeldern anwenden. Zudem sollen Kriterien zur Qualitätssicherung
und Wirkungskontrolle erstellt werden.
Towards a Historical Understanding of Critical Raw Materials: Suggestions from a History of Technology Perspective
Authors: Haumann Sebastian
Published: December 2018

Does the current debate on critical raw materials have precursors in history and is there anything we can learn from it? Notably during industrialization, certain materials were considered important to further development and at the same time prone to scarcity. A history of technology
perspective shows how such considerations shaped material change.The current debate on critical raw materials lacks a historical dimension. While the idea of identifying certain raw materials as particularly problematic ‐ and therefore critical ‐ to future development is
not a new one, a historical perspective has not yet been systematically integrated into the debate. This article explores concepts from history of technology to make suggestions about how we can better understand the ways in which reflection triggers and shapes material change.It discusses
the concepts of social construction of technology (SCOT) and the development of technological systems, applying them to the debates on the criticality of wood and limestone during the age of industrialization.
School principals' opinions about management upon values
Authors: Hatipoglu Gizem , Tok Türkay Nuri
Published: December 2018

Management upon value is to consolidate occupations around common values so that managers are aware of the individual values of the occupations and act effectively and efficiently in the direction of their organization. It is envisaged that the managers will create a system of common values, without emphasizing individual values, to develop the motivation and skills of the organizational workshops. The purpose of this research is to determine the opinions of the principals working in public elementary, secondary and high school levels affiliated to Denizli province Merkezefendi and Pamukkale districts about the topic management by values. In this qualitative research in the case study, a structured interview technique was used and the questions developed by the researchers were asked to the school principals. The working group consists of 10 school principals working in the public primary, secondary and high school levels affiliated to the Denizli Provincial Directorate and Pamukkale District National Education Directorates. In the analysis of the data, descriptive and content analysis techniques were used together. The data transferred to the article were edited, the themes were created from the encoded data, and the findings were defined and interpreted. The school principals interviewed indicated that it would be an effective way to act jointly by providing consensus on the way in which the management style can be built with values and this management style; employees will be able to help themselves to the company, to be happy at work, and to work more effectively and efficiently.
How Europe should Overcome the Coming Deadlock
Authors: Chortareas Georgios , Pelagidis Theodore
Published: December 2018

This note discusses the implications of deadlocks in the European Union in the light of the evolution of EU institutions during and after the recent economic crisis. We highlight the challenge of avoiding deadlocks without resorting to the expulsion threat. The need to accelerate “convergence in institutions” among the Union members emerges.