bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Key Performance Indicators for Capturing Impact of Pharmaceutical Care in Palestinian Integrative Healthcare Facilities: A Delphi Consensus Study
Authors: Shawahna Ramzi
Published: June 2020

Background. The current study was performed to develop a consensus‐based core inventory of key performance indicators (KPIs) to be used in capturing the impact of pharmaceutical care in healthcare facilities that employ integrative medicine paradigm in Palestine. Methods. A panel of healthcare professionals and risk/quality assurance managers was composed employing a judgmental sampling technique. The study tool was a questionnaire. Views and opinions of the panelists on the roles of pharmacists in caring for patients admitted to or visiting healthcare facilities that employ integrative medicine were collected using 11 statements. An initial inventory of activities and services that potentially can be used as KPIs was compiled from the literature and interviews with key contact experts in the domain. Three iterative Delphi rounds were conducted among the panelists (n = 50) to achieve formal consensus on the KPIs that should be used. The consensus‐based KPIs were ordered by the scores of the panelists. Results. A total of 8 consensus‐based KPIs were developed. The KPIs related to the number of problems related to medications and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that were resolved by pharmacists and CAM practitioners (p < 0.0001), number of patients for whom reconciliations were documented (p < 0.0001), number of patients receiving direct, comprehensive, and/or collaborative care (p < 0.0001), and number of patients for whom pharmacists and CAM practitioners were involved in implementing a therapeutic plan (p < 0.05) were rated significantly higher than the KPI (#8) related to the participation in multi‐healthcare provider discussions/deliberations. Conclusions. Consensus‐based KPIs that can be used in capturing the impact of evidence‐based CAM and pharmaceutical care of patients in healthcare facilities that employ integrative medicine paradigm were developed. Future studies are still needed to investigate if implementing these KPIs might promote evidence‐based CAM and pharmaceutical care in healthcare facilities that employ the integrative medicine paradigm.
Telomere Maintenance Variants and Survival after Colorectal Cancer: Smoking- and Sex-Specific Associations
Authors: Yin Hang , Hardikar Sheetal , Lindstroem Sara , Hsu Li , Anderson Kristin E. , Banbury Barbara L. , Berndt Sonja I. , Chan Andrew T. , Giovanucci Edward L. , Harrison Tabitha A. , Joshi Amit D. , Nan Hongmei , Potter John D. , Sakoda Lori C. , Slattery Martha L. , Schoen Robert E. , White Emily , Peters Ulrike , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Telomeres play an important role in colorectal cancer prognosis. Variation in telomere maintenance genes may be associated with survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis, but evidence is limited. In addition, possible interactions between telomere maintenance genes and prognostic factors, such as smoking and sex, also remain to be investigated.

Methods:

We conducted gene-wide analyses of colorectal cancer prognosis in 4,896 invasive colorectal cancer cases from the Genetics and Epidemiology of Colorectal Cancer Consortium (GECCO); 1,871 common variants within 13 telomere maintenance genes were included. Cox models were fit to estimate associations of these variants individually with overall and colorectal cancer–specific survival. Likelihood ratio tests were used to test for interaction by smoking and sex. P values were adjusted using Bonferroni correction.

Results:

The association between minor allele of rs7200950 (ACD) with colorectal cancer–specific survival varied significantly by smoking pack-years (corrected P = 0.049), but no significant trend was observed. By sex, minor alleles for rs2975843 (TERF1), rs75676021 (POT1), and rs74429678 (POT1) were associated with decreased overall and/or colorectal cancer–specific survival in women but not in men.

Conclusions:

Our study reported a gene-wide statistically significant interaction with sex (TERF1, POT1). Although significant interaction by smoking pack-years (ACD) was observed, there was no evidence of a dose response. Validation of these findings in other large studies and further functional annotation on these SNPs are warranted.

Impact:

Our study found a gene–smoking and gene–sex interaction on survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis, providing new insights into the role of genetic polymorphisms in telomere maintenance on colorectal cancer prognosis.
TUBB3 Is Associated with High-Grade Histology, Poor Prognosis, p53 Expression, and Cancer Stem Cell Markers in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sekino Yohei , Han Xiangrui , Babasaki Takashi , Miyamoto Shunsuke , Kitano Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Go , Goto Keisuke , Inoue Shogo , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Teishima Jun , Sakamoto Naoya , Sentani Kazuhiro , Oue Naohide , Yasui Wataru , Matsubara Akio
Published: June 2020

Background: βIII-Tubulin, encoded by the TUBB3 gene, is a microtubule protein. Several studies have shown that overexpression of TUBB3 is linked to poor prognosis and is involved in taxane resistance in some cancers. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the expression and function of TUBB3 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods: The expression of TUBB3 was determined using immuno­histochemistry in ccRCC specimens. The effects of TUBB3 knockdown on cell growth and invasion were evaluated in RCC cell lines. We analyzed the interaction between TUBB3, p53, cancer stem cell markers, and PD-L1. Results: In 137 cases of ccRCC, immunohistochemistry showed that 28 (20%) of the ccRCC cases were positive for TUBB3. High TUBB3 expression was significantly correlated with high nuclear grade, high T stage, and N stage. A Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that high expression of TUBB3 was associated with poor overall survival after nephrectomy. In silico analysis also showed that high TUBB3 expression was correlated with overall survival. Knockdown of TUBB3 suppressed cell growth and invasion in 786-O and Caki-1 cells. High TUBB3 expression was associated with CD44, CD133, PD-L1, and p53 in ccRCC. We generated p53 knockout cells using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Western blotting revealed that p53 knockout upregulated the expression of TUBB3. Conclusion: These results suggest that TUBB3 may play an oncogenic role and could be a potential therapeutic target in ccRCC.
Clinical Outcomes of Vonoprazan-Treated Patients after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Gastric Neoplasms: A Prospective Multicenter Observation Study
Authors: Ishida Tsugitaka , Dohi Osamu , Yamada Shinya , Yasuda Takeshi , Yamada Nobuhisa , Tomie Akira , Tsuji Toshifumi , Horii Yusuke , Majima Atsushi , Horie Ryusuke , Fukui Akifumi , Zen Keika , Tomatsuri Naoya , Yagi Nobuaki , Naito Yuji , Itoh Yoshito
Published: June 2020

Background: Vonoprazan (VPZ) has the potential to prevent delayed bleeding and promote ulcer healing after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) similar to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Objective: We aimed to evaluate the outcomes of VPZ-treated patients after ESD and compared the efficacy and feasibility in preventing a delayed bleeding and in healing an artificial ulcer after ESD between the VPZ and PPI therapies. Methods: This was a prospective, observation study in 11 Japanese medical institutions. We enrolled and evaluated 223 patients who underwent gastric ESD followed by VPZ treatment (VPZ group). We selected 385 patients who underwent gastric ESD followed by PPI treatment as historical controls (PPI group) to compare the outcomes between the VPZ and PPI groups using a propensity score matching analysis. Results: Among the 223 patients treated with VPZ, 173 were men and 50 were women with a median age of 72 years and with a median tumor size of 12.0 mm. Rates of en bloc resection and complete resection were 99.1 and 94.2%, respectively. Lymphovascular invasion was found in 6 (6.3%) cases. Intraoperative perforation and delayed bleeding occurred in 3 (1.3%) and 10 patients (4.5%), respectively. Scarring of artificial post-ESD ulcer was found in 153 patients (68.6%) at 6 weeks after ESD. The 205 pairs of propensity score-matched patients were comparable between the VPZ and PPI groups. The rate of delayed bleeding in the VPZ and PPI groups was 3.9 and 4.4%, respectively (difference, 0.5 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, −3.7 to 2.8%; non-inferiority, p = 0.01). Therefore, VPZ therapy demonstrated non-inferiority against PPI therapy in reducing the rate of delayed bleeding. The scar-stage ulcer at 6 weeks in the VPZ group and 8 weeks in the PPI group was 68.3 and 74.6%, respectively (p = 0.19). Conclusions: VPZ therapy showed an efficacy and feasibility in preventing a delayed bleeding after ESD similar to the PPI therapy. VPZ for 6 weeks and PPI for 8 weeks were similarly effective for an artificial ulcer healing after ESD.
Extracorporeal CO2 Removal Integrated within a Continuous Renal Replacement Circuit Offers Multiple Advantages
Authors: Redant Sébastien , De Bels David , Barbance Oceane , Loulidi Ghalil , Honoré Patrick M.
Published: June 2020

Extracorporeal CO2 removal within a continuous renal replacement therapy circuit offers multiple advantages for the regulation of the CO2 extraction. The authors review the impact of the dialysate solution, the buffer, and the anticoagulation on CO2 removal. They propose a theoretical model of the ideal circuit for the optimization of CO2 extraction.
Combined Interventions for Nonorganic Visual Loss in a Case with Pseudo-Myopia: A Perspective from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hien Thu Thi , Hoang Tung Thanh , Tran Anh Phuong , Tran Huy Dinh Minh
Published: June 2020

A previously healthy 10-year-old girl developed painless visual loss. She was diagnosed with a spasm of accommodation confirmed by cycloplegic refraction. She was prescribed low-dose atropine and again reported acute visual loss that was inconsistent with the level of daily function. She was referred to a pediatric psychiatrist with suspicion for a nonorganic visual disorder and was diagnosed with conversion disorder. She received psychotherapy and continued the treatment with low-dose atropine. Her visual acuity at distance returned to normal. Psychogenic visual loss can mimic organic disorders; hence, ophthalmologists should be aware of cases without the agreement between visual signs and daily manifestation.
Novel Toll-Like Receptor 9 Agonist Derived from Cryptococcus neoformans Attenuates Allergic Inflammation Leading to Asthma Onset in Mice
Authors: Dobashi-Okuyama Kaori , Kawakami Kazuyoshi , Miyasaka Tomomitsu , Sato Ko , Ishii Keiko , Kawakami Kaori , Masuda Chiaki , Suzuki Syugo , Kasamatsu Jun , Yamamoto Hideki , Tanno Daiki , Kanno Emi , Tanno Hiromasa , Kawano Tasuku , Takayanagi Motoaki , Takahashi Tomoko , Ohno Isao
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The enhanced type 2 helper (Th2) immune response is responsible for the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. To suppress the enhanced Th2 immune response, activation of the Th1 immune response has been an alternative strategy for anti-asthma therapy. In this context, effective Th1-inducing adjuvants that inhibit the development of allergic asthma but do not flare the side effects of the primary agent are required in clinical treatment and preventive medicine. Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine the regulation of the Th2 type immune response in asthma by a novel immunostimulatory oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) derived from Cryptococcus neoformans, termed ODN112, which contains a cytosine-guanine (CG) sequence but not canonical CpG motifs. Methods: Using an ovalbumin-induced asthma mouse model, we assessed the effect of ODN112 on prototypical asthma-related features in the lung and on the Th1/Th2 profile in the lymph nodes and lung of mice treated with ODN112 during sensitization. Results and Conclusion: ODN112 treatment attenuated asthma features in mice. In the bronchial lymph nodes of the lungs and in the spleen, ODN112 increased interferon-γ production and attenuated Th2 recall responses. In dendritic cells (DCs) after allergen sensitization, ODN112 enhanced cluster of differentiation (CD) 40 and CD80 expression but did not alter CD86 expression. Interleukin-12p40 production from DCs was also increased in a Th2-polarizing condition. Our results suggest that ODN112 is a potential Th1-inducing adjuvant during Th2 cell differentiation in the sensitization phase.
Immunological Implications of Physical Inactivity among Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Damiot Anthony , Pinto Ana Jéssica , Turner James E. , Gualano Bruno
Published: June 2020

Social distancing has been adopted worldwide to control severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. Social isolation is likely to lead to a decline in physical activity, which could result in immune system dysfunction, thereby increasing infection susceptibility and exacerbating the pathophysiology of conditions that are common among older adults, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammatory disorders. Older adults and people living with these comorbidities are at a greater risk for complications during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this review, we discuss the negative impact of physical inactivity on immune function and showcase evidence that regular physical activity may be an effective strategy to counter some of the deleterious effects of social isolation. Furthermore, we briefly highlight key research questions in exercise immunology, with a focus on older adults in the context of COVID-19. Although it is worth emphasizing that there is no direct evidence that physical activity can prevent or treat ­COVID-19, promoting an active lifestyle is a key intervention to counteract the effects of social isolation, especially in older adults and other at-risk individuals, such as those living with chronic diseases associated with ageing and lifestyle.
Loss-of-Function
CREB3L3
Variants in Patients With Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Dron Jacqueline S. , Dilliott Allison A. , Lawson Arden , McIntyre Adam D. , Davis Brent D. , Wang Jian , Cao Henian , Movsesyan Irina , Malloy Mary J. , Pullinger Clive R. , Kane John P. , Hegele Robert A.
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Genetic determinants of severe hypertriglyceridemia include both common variants with small effects (assessed using polygenic risk scores) plus heterozygous and homozygous rare variants in canonical genes directly affecting triglyceride metabolism. Here, we broadened our scope to detect associations with rare loss-of-function variants in genes affecting noncanonical pathways, including those known to affect triglyceride metabolism indirectly.

Approach and Results:

From targeted next-generation sequencing of 69 metabolism-related genes in 265 patients of European descent with severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥10 mmol/L or ≥885 mg/dL) and 477 normolipidemic controls, we focused on the association of rare heterozygous loss-of-function variants in individual genes. We observed that compared with controls, severe hypertriglyceridemia patients were 20.2× (95% CI, 1.11–366.1;
P
=0.03) more likely than controls to carry a rare loss-of-function variant in
CREB3L3
, which encodes a transcription factor that regulates several target genes with roles in triglyceride metabolism.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that rare variants in a noncanonical gene for triglyceride metabolism, namely
CREB3L3
, contribute significantly to severe hypertriglyceridemia. Secondary genes and pathways should be considered when evaluating the genetic architecture of this complex trait.
Role of PAR1-Egr1 in the Initiation of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm in Fbln4-Deficient Mice
Authors: Shin Seung Jae , Hang Huynh Thuy , Thang Bui Quoc , Shimoda Tomonari , Sakamoto Hiroaki , Osaka Motoo , Hiramatsu Yuji , Yamashiro Yoshito , Yanagisawa Hiromi
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Remodeling of the extracellular matrix plays a vital role in cardiovascular diseases. Using a mouse model of postnatal ascending aortic aneurysms (termed
Fbln4
SMKO
), we have reported that abnormal mechanosensing led to aneurysm formation in
Fbln4
SMKO
with an upregulation of the mechanosensitive transcription factor, Egr1 (Early growth response 1). However, the role of Egr1 and its upstream regulator(s) in the initiation of aneurysm development and their relationship to an aneurysmal microenvironment are unknown.

Approach and Results:

To investigate the contribution of Egr1 in the aneurysm development, we deleted
Egr1
in
Fbln4
SMKO
mice and generated double knockout mice (
DKO
,
Fbln4
SMKO
;
Egr1
−/−
). Aneurysms were prevented in
DKO
mice (42.8%) and
Fbln4
SMKO
;
Egr1
+/−
mice (26%). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified PAR1 (protease-activated receptor 1) as a potential Egr1 upstream gene. Protein and transcript levels of PAR1 were highly increased in
Fbln4
SMKO
aortas at postnatal day 1 before aneurysm formed, together with active thrombin and MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)-9, both of which serve as a PAR1 activator. Concordantly, protein levels of PAR1, Egr1, and thrombin were significantly increased in human thoracic aortic aneurysms. In vitro cyclic stretch assays (1.0 Hz, 20% strain, 8 hours) using mouse primary vascular smooth muscle cells induced marked expression of PAR1 and secretion of prothrombin in response to mechanical stretch. Thrombin was sufficient to induce Egr1 expression in a PAR1-dependent manner.

Conclusions:

We propose that thrombin, MMP-9, and mechanical stimuli in the
Fbln4
SMKO
aorta activate PAR1, leading to the upregulation of Egr1 and initiation of ascending aortic aneurysms.
Epidemiology and Risk of Amputation in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus and Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Barnes J. Aaron , Eid Mark A. , Creager Mark A. , Goodney Philip P.
Published: June 2020

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) stems from atherosclerosis of lower extremity arteries with resultant arterial narrowing or occlusion. The most severe form of PAD is termed chronic limb-threatening ischemia and carries a significant risk of limb loss and cardiovascular mortality. Diabetes mellitus is known to increase the incidence of PAD, accelerate disease progression, and increase disease severity. Patients with concomitant diabetes mellitus and PAD are at high risk for major complications, such as amputation. Despite a decrease in the overall number of amputations performed annually in the United States, amputation rates among those with both diabetes mellitus and PAD have remained stable or even increased in high-risk subgroups. Within this cohort, there is significant regional, racial/ethnic, and socioeconomic variation in amputation risk. Specifically, residents of rural areas, African-American and Native American patients, and those of low socioeconomic status carry the highest risk of amputation. The burden of amputation is severe, with 5-year mortality rates exceeding those of many malignancies. Furthermore, caring for patients with PAD and diabetes mellitus imposes a significant cost to the healthcare system—estimated to range from $84 billion to $380 billion annually. Efforts to improve the quality of care for those with PAD and diabetes mellitus must focus on the subgroups at high risk for amputation and the disparities they face in the receipt of both preventive and interventional cardiovascular care. Better understanding of these social, economic, and structural barriers will prove to be crucial for cardiovascular physicians striving to better care for patients facing this challenging combination of chronic diseases.
Coronary Access and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Up to 3 Years After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With a Balloon-Expandable Valve
Authors: Tarantini Giuseppe , Nai Fovino Luca , Le Prince Pascal , Darremont Olivier , Urena Marina , Bartorelli Antonio L. , Vincent Flavien , Hovorka Tomas , Alcalá Navarro Yasmina , Dumonteil Nicolas , Ohlmann Patrick , Wendler Olaf ,   on behalf of the SOURCE 3 Investigators
Published: June 2020

Background:

Coronary artery disease and aortic stenosis often coexist. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a valid therapeutic option for younger, lower-risk patients who may eventually require coronary artery disease treatment. Thus, post-TAVI coronary access (CA) and percutaneous coronary intervention are expected to increase. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate patients who were enrolled in the SOURCE 3 (SAPIEN 3 Aortic Bioprosthesis European Outcome) European registry for treatment with the balloon-expandable SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve and underwent CA with or without percutaneous coronary intervention after TAVI.

Methods:

Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients with or without CA up to 3 years after TAVI were compared. A Kaplan-Meier estimate with a univariate model determined the impact of CA on cardiac mortality.

Results:

Of 1936 TAVI patients (mean age 81.6 years, 52% male), 68 (3.5%) had CA within 3 years (mean 441±332 days) after TAVI. At baseline, the logistic EuroSCORE was similar (20.2% versus 18.3%,
P
=0.2, CA and non-CA groups, respectively). Higher rates of coronary artery disease (76.5% versus 50.6%,
P
<0.001), myocardial infarction (20.6% versus 11.5%,
P
=0.03) and previous coronary artery bypass graft (22.1% versus 11.0%,
P
=0.01) were present in the CA group. In 100% of patients, CA was successfully achieved. The clinical success of percutaneous coronary intervention was 97.9%. Cardiovascular mortality was numerically higher in patients with CA than in those without CA.

Conclusions:

In the large SOURCE 3 European registry, CA was needed at 3-year follow-up after TAVI with a balloon-expandable valve in 3.5% of patients and was successful in all patients. The clinical success of percutaneous coronary intervention was 97.9%.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02698956.
Wiesław Lang’s Legal Thought – Between Sociological and Analytical Jurisprudence
Authors: Korycka-Zirk Milena
Published: June 2020

The article is an attempt to trace in Wiesław Lang’s scientific research the influence of sociological jurisprudence, as initiated in Polish legal science by Leon Petrażycki: the original source of Lang’s scientific inspiration. Not only significant traces of sociological research concepts but also the broader perception of the notion of law typical for this trend in jurisprudence can be seen in W. Lang’s work; these are most visibly evidenced in his works devoted to those aspects of American legal culture that are doctrinally and judicially dominated by the analysis of ‘law in action’, not merely ‘law in books’.
Just an Etymological Note: The Case of Megrelian aӡmax-i, azmax-i ‘puddle, pool, pond’
Authors: Bläsing Uwe
Published: June 2020

It is a well-known fact that the stage of etymological research forms a quite slippery floor in particular when dealing with possible loans from tongues beyond the domain of one’s specialization. The present article is concerned with a case where a narrow, i.e. an internal caucasological view on the etymology of a word delivers already a quite plausible and convincing result, which, however, in a wider areal framing, offering a serious alternative, appears to be untenable. This alternative, definitely a preferable view, focusing on the word’s Turkish origin, will be introduced through a thorough discussion highlighting many aspects relevant for robust etymological research. The term in question is, of course, TURKISH azmak ‘marshland, swamp’.
Responding to Incorrect Decision-Making in Investor-State Dispute Settlement: Policy Options
Authors: De Luca Anna , Feldman Mark , Paparinskis Martins , Titi Catharine
Published: June 2020

Criticism of the quality of investor-State dispute settlement (ISDS) decision-making often focuses on inconsistency (comparing ISDS decisions), and less frequently, incorrectness (evaluating individual ISDS decisions on a standalone basis). This article situates incorrect ISDS decision-making within the broader context of public international law and develops potential policy responses, guided by three considerations. First, criticism of ISDS decision-making has been significant. Second, criticism of particular ISDS decisions, even when widespread and intense, does not necessarily establish their incorrectness. Finally, development of policy options should be informed by a broad understanding of ‘incorrectness’, to include instances of questionable legal analysis that cast doubt on the reliability of ISDS legal conclusions and outcomes; that approach can support not only the avoidance of incorrect ISDS decision-making in a strict sense, but also, more expansively, the achievement of correct ISDS decision-making, consisting of two core elements: correct identification and precise application of applicable law.
Independence and Impartiality of Adjudicators in Investment Dispute Settlement: Assessing Challenges and Reform Options
Authors: Giorgetti Chiara , Ratner Steven , Dunoff Jeffrey , Hamamoto Shotaro , Nottage Luke , Schill Stephan W. , Waibel Michael
Published: June 2020

As discussions on the reform of investor-State dispute settlement deepen and gather momentum at the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), this article delves into a specific and fundamental issue: the requirement that adjudicators in investment disputes are and remain independent and impartial. It begins by explaining the principle of independence and impartiality in international courts and tribunals, with a focus on arbitral institutions. The article then highlights a range of specific concerns that the present system of investor-State arbitration raises in respect of independence and impartiality. Finally, it provides a comparative analysis of how different reform proposals presently discussed within UNCITRAL Working Group III would fare in terms of delivering a dispute resolution mechanism that ensures independence and impartiality. Rather than providing one specific solution, this article assesses the different options discussed, with the aim to help both policy-makers considering reform and other stakeholders and scholars.
Deliberating across Difference
Authors: Afsahi Afsoun
Published: June 2020

This paper examines two cases of deliberation on the issue of religious arbitration in Canada: first, the Sharia law debate in Ontario (deliberation in the larger public sphere); and second, a deliberation on religious arbitration in British Columbia (deliberation in a small-scale structured setting). Relying on both secondary and original data, this article demonstrates that while the Sharia law debate failed to fulfill the key functions of a deliberative engagement, the small-scale deliberation was able to achieve all three functions: participants had the chance to express their opinions; there was ample dialogue and communication evident by increased empathy, perspective-taking ability, and knowledge gains; and finally, participants were able to come to a decision, however broad, together. Through this comparison, the article highlights key barriers to deliberation across differences and concludes with some suggestions for carrying out such engagements in the future.
Non-Violence as a Tool of African Revolutionary Praxis in Femi Osofisan’s Red is the Freedom Road
Authors: Ajidahun Clement Olujide
Published: June 2020

The deployment of violence as a subversive and revolutionary tool for effecting social change in post-independent African states has been very controversial among literary scholars. This paper employs Marxism in re-reading Femi Osofisan’s Red is the Freedom Road, and argues that the use of violence as a popular means of engendering progressive transformation of society is too costly in blood and devastation. Instead, tackling the various sociopolitical challenges confronting postcolonial African nations is better pursued through dialogue and negotiation rather than armed confrontation. Osofisan’s revulsion in response to the use of violence permeates his drama; but this does not in any way reduce his literary stature when compared with Ngugi wa Thiong’o and Wole Soyinka, whose literary works seem to support the view that there comes a point when the deployment of violence becomes necessary.
Deriving Object Relatives in Kiswahili Determiner Phrases
Authors: Ndomba Rodrick G.
Published: June 2020

Generally one finds there are shortages in the array of technical resources available to penetrate the morphology of Kiswahili and its similarities to, as well as its departures from, morphemic structures in other Bantu languages. The introduction of a new approach employed here is an attempt to contribute to correcting that deficit. Object relative Determiner Phrases (DPs) in Kiswahili are common noun phrases with the noun head called the object relative appearing in the initial position of the DP. The phrases also have relative words and clitics introducing relative clauses. In Kiswahili these phrases are formed via DP internal movements of the object noun to the highest position coupled with movements of the subject and verb complex. The suggestion here that the object relative moves to the highest position in DP configuration marks a significant departure from other studies. This analysis provides theoretical insights about how these constructions are mapped in the minds of Kiswahili speakers. Refinement of the morpho-syntactic display which is specific to Kiswahili is essential for helping learners of the language to master it correctly. Further research will reveal whether the analysis of the object relative adopted DP can be used to derive similar phrases in other Bantu languages, such as Sesotho, Chishona, Ikalanga, and ciNsenga.
Uchambuzi wa Maandiko ya Mwalimu Yatokanayo na Mtaala Juu ya Ufundishaji wa Somo la Kiswahili Nchini Tanzania
Authors: Mayega Jovitha Lazaro , Kipanda Joyce
Published: June 2020

Ikisiri

Makala hii inachambua baadhi ya maandiko muhimu yatokanayo na mtaala kwa kutoa ufafanuzi wa kina juu ya dhana na vipengele mahususi vya maandiko hayo ambavyo mwalimu wa somo la Kiswahili hupaswa kuvizingatia katika uwasilishaji wa somo lake. Lengo la uchambuzi huu ni kuonesha athari za kutotumia vizuri maandiko hayo na umuhimu wake kwa walimu katika kufundishia somo la Kiswahili. Ufafanuzi umejumuisha maandiko ya aina tatu nayo ni muhtasari, azimio la kazi na andalio la somo. Uchambuzi huu unatokana na kuwepo kwa matumizi ya maandiko hayo isiyosahihi, walimu kutokutumia maandiko hayo kwa kigezo cha uhaba wa upatikanaji na ukosekanaji wa ufahamu wa matumizi ya maandiko hayo. Kutokana na sababu hizo na kwa kuwa lugha ya Kiswahili kimawanda asili ya matumizi yake ni Tanzania, ni muhimu kuwepo kwa andiko hili ili kumwezesha mwalimu wa somo la Kiswahili kutumia maandiko hayo kwa ufanisi na kuhimiza uandaaji wa maandiko hayo kwa idadi inayotosheleza ili kupunguza uhaba. Data za kuwezesha uandishi wa makala hii zimepatikana kwa njia ya mapitio ya maandiko na matini mbalimbali na kutafsiri rejea zilizoandikwa kwa lugha za kigeni hasa Kiingereza. Imebainika kupitia makala hii kuwa kuna athari zinazotokana na kutotumia maandiko hayo kwa walimu jambo ambalo limesababisha maandiko haya kutotumika ipasavyo.
An updated circumscription of Saussurea (Cardueae, Asteraceae) and allied genera based on morphological and molecular data

Authors: KASANA SHRUTI , DWIVEDI MAYANK D. , UNIYAL PREM L. , PANDEY ARUN K.
Published: June 2020

The temperate Asteraceae genus Saussurea displays much morphological variation. Recent and previous taxonomic revisions have led to redefinition and later lumping of several additional genera. This study made use of morphological and molecular data to answer questions related to smaller split genera from Saussurea. The result indicates that the genus Lipschitziella, split from Saussurea, is monophyletic after the inclusion of Himalaiella. Another closely allied genus Dolomiaea is also recovered monophyletic after the inclusion of Saussurea costus and Frolovia frolowii. Nine possible new combinations are established.
Review of Glaphyrosoma (Orthoptera: Stenopelmatoidea: Anostostomatidae), including new species and biological information
Authors: CADENA-CASTAÑEDA OSCAR J. , WEISSMAN DAVID B.
Published: June 2020

We describe four new Glaphyrosoma species: G. brevivaginalis n. sp., G. huasteca n. sp., G. paragracile n. sp. and G. unumtympana n. sp. We redescribe and provide new distributional data for G. gracile, G. mexicanum and G. stephanosoltis. The subfamily status to tribe Glaphyrosomatini is proposed and a key to identify the genera is provided. The key to Glaphyrosoma species is updated to include the species here described. Finally, we present karyotype data and drumming information for selected species.
A new species of Eucapnopsis (Plecoptera: Capniidae) from China
Authors: CAO ZHISHAN , YANG DING , LI WEIHAI
Published: June 2020

A new species of Capniidae, Eucapnopsis yunnana sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Yunnan Province, southwestern China. The relationships with other similar species of the genus are discussed.
Validation of Cymbasoma turcorum and Monstrillopsis pontoeuxinensis,
two monstrilloids from Turkey described by Suárez-Morales & Üstün in 2018 (Crustacea: Copepoda: Monstrilloida)
Authors: SUÁREZ-MORALES EDUARDO , ÜSTÜN FUNDA
Published: June 2020

Recently, Suárez-Morales & Üstün (2018) described two new species of monstrilloid copepods, Cymbasoma turcorum and Monstrillopsis pontoeuxinensis from Turkish coastal waters of the Black Sea. The morphological descriptions, illustrations, and type designations presented in that paper fully characterized both new species; however, the journal issue in which the description appeared was published only online, with no print version (Suárez-Morales & Üstün 2018), and the article in which these new names were introduced did not include a ZooBank registration number (LSID) for the article or any other evidence of such registration. This is currently required by Article 8.5 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature for an electronic work to be deemed “published” under the Code (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature 2012). Inasmuch as Suárez-Morales & Üstün (2018) is an “unpublished work”, the specific names turcorum and pontoeuxinensis proposed in it are unavailable. The present note is intended to fully validate these two names by proposing them once again as new while also fulfilling all of the Code’s current conditions for nomenclatural availability of this work itself and the two new names. The date and authorship of these two specific names will, accordingly, be those of this note, not Suárez-Morales & Üstün (2018).
A new species of the genus Smithophis (Squamata: Serpentes: Natricidae) from southwestern China and northeastern Myanmar
Authors: VOGEL GERNOT , CHEN ZENING , DEEPAK V. , GOWER DAVID J. , SHI JINGSONG , DING LI , HOU MIAN
Published: June 2020

A new species of natricid snake, Smithophis linearis sp. nov., is described on the basis of a single recently collected specimen from Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, People’s Republic of China, and three historical specimens from Yunnan and from northeastern Myanmar. The new species is assigned to the genus Smithophis on the basis of its single internasal and single prefrontal shields, and on the basis of the results of phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome b DNA sequence data. The new species differs from its congeners in having the following combination of characters: temporal shields present, six or more circumorbital scales, and a distinctive colour pattern comprising regular, narrow, longitudinal dark and pale lines. Morphological and cytochrome b data are consistent with the recognition of Smithophis as distinct from the genus Opisthotropis. A revised key to the identification of the species of Smithophis is provided.
Two new species of Utivarachna Kishida, 1940 from southern China, with an updated key to the Chinese species (Araneae: Trachelidae)
Authors: LIU KEKE , YIN HAIQIANG , HADDAD CHARLES R. , XU XIANG , MA ZHINING
Published: June 2020

Two new trachelid spiders were collected from Guangxi, southern China, and are described here as Utivarachna subfabaria sp. nov. (♂, ♀) and U. tangi sp. nov. (♀). Both species belong to the Utivarachna kinabaluensis-group. Detailed generic synapomorphies are deduced based on an assessment of all known Utivarachna species, and an updated key to the Utivarachna species from China is provided.
Revision of the Oriental Region genus Epicnemis Borgmeier (Diptera: Phoridae)
Authors: BROWN BRIAN V , GONZALEZ LISA
Published: June 2020

The Oriental Region phorid genus Epicnemis Borgmeier is revised, resulting in the recognition of 15 species, 10 of which are new to science: E. alus, chaweewanae, digitalis, disjunctus, dorsalis, latus, projectus, ratanae, setosus, and sinuosus. Only males are treated, as females are highly modified and cannot be associated with their males based on morphology alone.
Monitoring Polyurethane Foaming Reactions Using Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Chen Xiaoyun , Patankar Kshitish A. , Larive Matthew
Published: June 2020

Polyurethane (PU) foams are finding increasingly wider applications ranging from memory foams and mattresses to cushions and insulation materials. They are prepared by reactions between multifunctional isocyanates and polyols as the two main building blocks, along with other additives, including the blowing agents. A non-contact near-infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging (HSI) camera was used in this study to monitor PU foaming reactions between a polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, polyol, and water. Five foams were prepared with three process variables: water content, mixing time, and catalyst levels. Spectral changes characteristic of the PU reactions were observed and clear difference in kinetics could be effectively extracted from such NIR HSI results. The NIR HSI technology offers two substantial advantages over the conventional Fourier transform- (FT-) NIR systems: (i) faster spectral acquisition time and (ii) higher spatial resolution of line images rather than the point measurement. Examples are provided to illustrate these two advantages. The potential to acquire chemical images of PU foams is also demonstrated.
Community engagement in youth justice program design
Authors: Butcher Luke , Day Andrew , Kidd Garry , Miles Debra , Stanton Steven
Published: June 2020

Aboriginal young people from rural areas in Australia are significantly over-represented in the youth justice system, and yet there is little evidence to indicate that current programs are having measurable success on rates of re-offending, suggesting alternative approaches are required. Drawing on new directions in human service policy that emphasise the importance of involving community in program design, this study reports the findings of a consultation with Aboriginal community members from one rural community to identify how the ecological validity of youth justice programs may be increased to be more responsive to local need. Eighteen Aboriginal community members from a town in Western New South Wales participated in semi-structured interviews, guided by a culturally informed research methodology. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify key themes that the community saw as important in program design, highlighting the need for consistent levels of support for local and community-driven solutions. Proposed conditions to enhance the ecological validity of programs are discussed.
Correlations Among Classroom Emotional Climate, Social Self-Efficacy, and Psychological Health of University Students in Taiwan
Authors: Hong Fu-Yuan , Chiu Shao-I , Huang Der-Hsiang , Chiu Su-Lin
Published: June 2020

The purposes of this study were to explore the correlations among classroom emotional climate, student social self-efficacy, and student psychological health. This study treated 392 university students as the research participants. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis showed that the factor structure of classroom emotional climate and social self-efficacy had a good fit. The results showed that classroom emotional climate could significantly affect social self-efficacy, that social self-efficacy could significantly predict self-esteem and depression, and that self-esteem could also significantly predict depression. Finally, the research results were discussed, and relevant suggestions were proposed for schools, teachers, and future research.
Subgroups with typical courses of depressive symptoms in an elderly population during 13 years of observation: Results from the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study
Authors: Engel Miriam , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Dragano Nico , Engels Miriam , Moebus Susanne
Published: June 2020

Background:

Depressive symptoms are volatile over time but empirical studies of intra-individual variations of depressive symptoms over longer periods are sparse.

Aims:

We aim to examine fluctuation patterns of depressive symptoms and to investigate the possible influence of age, sex and socioeconomic factors on fluctuation in a population-based sample over a period of 13 years.

Methods:

We used data of 4,251 participants (45–75 years; 51.0% women at baseline) of the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study with at least two of nine possible measurements obtained in the period between 2000 and 2017. Depressive symptoms were assessed via the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) short form. Based on the individual mean values and standard deviation from all measurements, we categorized participants as G1 ‘stable low’, G2 ‘stable high’, G3 ‘stable around cutoff’ and G4 ‘large fluctuations’.

Results:

Most participants (82.3%) showed stable low depressive symptoms (G1), whereas 2.3% performed stable high values (G2), 6.9% stable around the cutoff (G3) and 8.6% large fluctuations (G4).

Conclusion:

Our longitudinal results reveal that almost 18% (G2, G3 and G4) of the participants have an increased depression score or strong fluctuations at times. According to our classification, a higher proportion of the participants show anomalies with regard to depression compared to a simple classification into depressed and nondepressed, especially if this is based on a single measurement. Thus, longitudinal measurements of depression can prevent misclassification and provide valuable information about the course of depressive symptoms for a better understanding of the changes of depression.
A Typology of Rebel Political Institutional Arrangements
Authors: Mampilly Zachariah , Stewart Megan A.
Published: June 2020

What are the different political institutions rebels create to engage captive civilian populations, and how do they arrive at distinct political arrangements? Rebel-controlled territories host a diversity of political institutions ranging from structures designed to promote democratic decision-making to martial law. Although previous research has focused on rebel social service provision and other aspects of rebel governance, few have investigated variation in the institutional arrangements rebels adopt. In this article, we identify a set of four dimensions along which rebel political institutions vary leading to six ideal–typical forms of political arrangements. We argue that an iterative and dynamic stepwise process, determined by rebel group strategies and local conditions, produces one of these political institutional outcomes. Importantly, the type of rebel political institutions within one location can change throughout the war, and variation sometimes emerges across territories the same rebel group controls. We demonstrate the plausibility of our arguments through a series of illustrative case studies that correspond to the formation processes of our six ideal–typical political arrangements. We conclude with recommendations for future research.
Hydraulic structure design and downhole flow field optimization of geophysical drill bits in a limestone stratum
Authors: Zhu Jing , Huang Zhiqiang , Ma Yachao , Xie Dou , Yang Xueying , Zhou Cao
Published: June 2020

The hydraulic structure of conventional geophysical drill bit is designed for the general stratum. When conventional geophysical drill bit pierces into a limestone stratum, the shape of cuttings is large because of the high brittleness of limestone. The cuttings are ground repeatedly; this phenomenon can reduce drilling efficiency and increase drilling costs. According to the characteristics of limestone cuttings, the numerical simulation method is used to research downhole flow field characteristics of conventional geophysical drill bit. First, the influence of key hydraulic structure parameters on cuttings removal performance is found. Then, the hydraulic structure is optimized. The flow field characteristics of the hydraulic structure of the geophysical drill bit before and after optimization in the flow path is analyzed, at the bottom of the bit and the annulus area of the shaft lining. The optimized downhole crossflow area increased from 50% to 98%. No vortex was observed at the exit of the flow path and cuttings groove. The downhole pressure gradient increased from 0.12 Mpa to 0.15 Mpa. The cutting removal space in the annulus area of the shaft lining is fully utilized. Field tests show that the cutting removal and drilling performance of optimized geophysical drill bit has improved and the drilling speed increases by 20.6%.
Knowledge Creation in Information Technology and Tourism: A Critical Reflection and an Outlook for the Future
Authors: Xiang Zheng , Fesenmaier Daniel R. , Werthner Hannes
Published: June 2020

This essay serves as a response to Cai and McKenna’s Letter to the Editor (2020) recently published in the Journal of Travel Research, which sought to initiate a discussion regarding the nature and future of research related to information technology and tourism (ITT). The authors argued that ITT is a subfield of information systems (IS) and ITT research is narrowly defined, self-referential, and focused on application, rather than building theory. In this essay, we challenge the authors’ basic assumptions as well as their supportive evidence. We argue that ITT, as an intersection between IT and tourism, is a well-developed, multidisciplinary field and has contributed substantially to tourism research and beyond. Furthermore, we offer a vision of future ITT research that aims to engage with much wider conversations about innovation, sustainability, well-being, quality of life, smart governance, and resilience, particularly in response to the unprecedented crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Poverty and human capital in Chile: The processes of subjectivation in conditional cash transfer programs
Authors: Reininger Taly , Castro-Serrano Borja
Published: June 2020

Utilizing Foucault’s insights on neoliberalism, his notion of governmentality in relation to the State, and his insights on the processes of subjectivity (2007; 2006) the following article seeks to critically examine Chile’s Ethical Family Income (IEF), a conditional cash transfer program that was implemented in the country from 2011 to 2016. Utilizing interview excerpts with women who participated in the program, the article analyzes the manner in which the program operated as a contemporary form of governmentality by installing a particular production of subjectivity in which meritorious recipients of state aid are shaped as productive, responsible, independent citizens who actively invest in accumulating human capital in order to transform themselves and their children into entrepreneurial individuals. The article concludes discussing possibilities of resistance to neoliberal rationality processes of subjectivation in poverty eradication policies and programs.