bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proanthocyanidins-Loaded Nanoparticles Enhance Dentin Degradation Resistance
Authors: Fawzy A.S. , Priyadarshini B.M. , Selvan S.T. , Lu T.B. , Neo J.
Published: February 2017

Previous studies reported that grapeseed extract (GSE), which is rich in proanthocyanidins (PAs), improves the biodegradation resistance of demineralized dentin. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a new GSE delivery strategy to demineralized dentin through loading into biodegradable polymer poly-[lactic-co-glycolic acid] (PLGA) nanoparticles on the biodegradation resistance in terms of structural stability and surface/bulk mechanical and biochemical properties with storage time in collagenase-containing solutions. GSE-loaded nanoparticles were synthetized by nanoprecipitation at PLGA/GSE (w/w) ratios of 100:75, 100:50, and 100:25 and characterized for their morphological/structural features, physicochemical characteristics, and drug loading, entrapment, and release. Nanoparticle suspensions in distilled water (12.5% w/v) were applied (1 min) to demineralized dentin specimens by simulating pulpal pressure. The nanoparticle delivery was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the GSE release from the delivered nanoparticles was further characterized. The variations in surface and bulk mechanical properties were characterized in terms of reduced elastic-modulus, hardness, nanoindentation testing, and apparent elastic-modulus with a storage time up to 3 mo. Hydroxyproline release with exposure to collagenase up to 7 d was estimated. An etch-and-rinse dentin adhesive was applied to investigate the morphology of the resin-dentin interface after nanoparticle delivery. Treatment with the GSE-loaded nanoparticles enhanced the collagen fibril structural resistance, reflected from the TEM investigation, and improved the biomechanical and biochemical stability of demineralized dentin. Nanoparticles having PLGA/GSE of 100:75 (w/w) showed the highest cumulative GSE release and were associated with the best improvement in biodegradation resistance. TEM/SEM showed the ability of the nanoparticles to infiltrate dentinal tubules’ main and lateral branches. SEM revealed the formation of a uniform hybrid layer and well-formed resin tags with the presence of numerous nanoparticles located within the dentinal tubules and/or attached to the resin tag. This study demonstrated the potential significance of delivering collagen crosslinkers loaded into biodegradable polymer nanoparticles through the dentinal tubules of demineralized dentin on the biodegradation resistance.
Repetitive urine and blood sampling in neonatal and weaned piglets for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modelling in drug discovery: a pilot study
Authors: Gasthuys Elke , Schauvliege Stijn , van Bergen Thomas , Millecam Joske , Cerasoli Ilaria , Martens Ann , Gasthuys Frank , Vandecasteele Tim , Cornillie Pieter , Van den Broeck Wim , Boyen Filip , Croubels Siska , Devreese Mathias
Published: February 2017

Piglets are considered to be suitable animal models for predicting the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) of test drugs for potential use in the paediatric population. Such PK/PD studies require multiple blood and urine samplings. The goal of the present study was to determine a suitable blood collection strategy applicable in the youngest age categories of six days, four weeks and eight weeks of age, as well as a urine collection technique for male piglets in the same age categories. Blood was collected either by a surgically-placed jugular vein catheter (six days old [ n = 4] and four weeks old [ n = 2] piglets) or by direct venepuncture of the jugular vein (four weeks old [ n = 2] and eight weeks old [ n = 4] piglets). A non-invasive method for total volume urine collection in male piglets was also developed using a urine pouch. No specific complications were encountered during anaesthesia or surgery for jugular catheter placement. After a 24 h recovery period, urine and blood were easily collected without technical complications. One piglet was humanely killed at week 2 because of septicaemia. Histological analysis of both veins in all four piglets revealed negligible damage to the blood vessel wall. In conclusion, the presented techniques for blood (jugular catheter and direct venepuncture) and urine collection (pouches) are suitable for PK/PD studies in piglets.
Third-Party Strategy under Plurality Rule: The British Liberal Democrats and the New Zealand Social Credit Party
Authors: Quinn Thomas
Published: February 2017

This article examines the strategic options facing small centrist third parties in two-party parliamentary systems operating under the single-member district plurality electoral system. It uses a spatial model to show that centrist third parties are better off targeting the ‘safe’ districts of a major party rather than marginal districts. Furthermore, it is optimal to target one party’s districts, not both, to benefit from tactical and protest voting. This article also questions the implicit conclusion of the median-legislator theorem that pivotality-seeking is the best strategy for a third party, at least under the single-member district plurality system, because that would usurp voters’ ability to select the executive directly, a key feature of two-partism. Finally, this article shows that third parties can damage themselves if they ‘flip’ their strategies from opposing particular major parties to supporting them. Evidence is provided for the British Liberal Democrats and New Zealand’s historic Social Credit Party.
Democratic Institutions and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Altman David , Flavin Patrick , Radcliff Benjamin
Published: February 2017

We examine how differences in how democracy is institutionalized affect life satisfaction across nations. To our knowledge, this is the first rigorous, systematic study of this subject. Using data for 21 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries from 1981 to 2008, we find robust evidence that citizens report living more satisfying lives in countries with a parliamentary (rather than presidential) executive, a proportional representation electoral system (as opposed to single member districts), and a unitary (rather than federal) governmental structure. Moreover, the findings suggest that the real-world consequences for these types of democratic institutions for human well-being are substantial, rivaling or exceeding other common predictors. We conclude with a discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of the results.
Adult Chinese as a Second Language Learners' Willingness to Communicate in Chinese: Effects of Cultural, Affective, and Linguistic Variables
Authors: Liu Meihua
Published: February 2017

The present research explored the effects of cultural, affective, and linguistic variables on adult Chinese as a second language learners' willingness to communicate in Chinese. One hundred and sixty-two Chinese as a second language learners from a Chinese university answered the Willingness to Communicate in Chinese Scale, the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale, Chinese Speaking Anxiety Scale, Chinese Learning Motivation Scale, Use of Chinese Profile, as well as the Background Questionnaire. The major findings were as follows: (1) the Willingness to Communicate in Chinese Scales were significantly negatively correlated with Chinese Speaking Anxiety Scale but positively correlated with length of stay in China and (2) Chinese Speaking Anxiety Scale was a powerful negative predictor for the overall willingness to communicate in Chinese and the Willingness to Communicate in Chinese Scales, followed by length of stay in China, Chinese Learning Motivation Scale, interaction attentiveness, and Chinese proficiency level. Apparently, students' willingness to communicate in Chinese is largely determined by their Chinese Speaking Anxiety Scale level and length of stay in China, mediated by other variables such as Chinese proficiency level and intercultural communication sensitivity level.
Assessment of Impact and Recovery Needs in Communities Affected by the Elk River Chemical Spill, West Virginia, April 2014
Authors: Burrer Sherry L. , Fechter-Leggett Ethan , Bayleyegn Tesfaye , Mark-Carew Miguella , Thomas Carrie , Bixler Danae , Noe Rebecca S. , Hsu Joy , Haddy Loretta , Wolkin Amy
Published: February 2017

Objectives:

In January 2014, 4-methylcyclohexanemethanol spilled into the Elk River near Charleston, West Virginia, contaminating the water supply for about 120 000 households. The West Virginia American Water Company (WVAWC) issued a “do not use” water order for 9 counties. After the order was lifted (10 days after the spill), the communities’ use of public water systems, information sources, alternative sources of water, and perceived impact of the spill on households were unclear to public health officials. To assist in recovery efforts, the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER).

Methods:

We used the CASPER 2-stage cluster sampling design to select a representative sample of households to interview, and we conducted interviews in 171 households in April 2014. We used a weighted cluster analysis to generate population estimates in the sampling frame.

Results:

Before the spill, 74.4% of households did not have a 3-day alternative water supply for each household member and pet. Although 83.6% of households obtained an alternative water source within 1 day of the “do not use” order, 37.4% of households reportedly used WVAWC water for any purpose. Nearly 3 months after the spill, 36.1% of households believed that their WVAWC water was safe, and 33.5% reported using their household water for drinking.

Conclusions:

CASPER results identified the need to focus on basic public health messaging and household preparedness efforts. Recommendations included (1) encouraging households to maintain a 3-day emergency water supply, (2) identifying additional alternative sources of water for future emergencies, and (3) increasing community education to address ongoing concerns about water.
Teaching English through English: Proficiency, Pedagogy and Performance
Authors: Richards Jack C.
Published: February 2017

Most of the world’s English language teachers speak English as a second or third language rather than as their first language. For many, their level of proficiency in English may not reach benchmarks established by their employers, raising the issue that is the focus of this article, namely, what kind of proficiency in English is necessary to be an effective teacher of English? The article seeks to provide an overview of how the role of language proficiency issue has been addressed in the ELT literature. It describes the kind of specialized language skills needed to teach English through English, explores the relationship between language proficiency and teaching ability, considers the impact of language ability on different dimensions of teaching, and raises the implications for language assessment and for the design of language enhancement programmes for language teachers.
The Development and Validation of a Colorism Scale
Authors: Harvey Richard D. , Tennial Rachel E. , Hudson Banks Kira
Published: February 2017

Two studies were conducted to develop and then validate a scale to measure the construct of Colorism. While colorism is a long discussed phenomena within the Black community in the United States, there have been virtually no attempts to measure the degree to which individuals embrace it. The In-Group Colorism Scale (ICS) was developed to assess the degree to which skin tone variation is important across five essential domains: Self-Concept, Affiliation, Attraction, Impression Formation, and Upward Mobility. The scale was empirically tested and then replicated using two distinct national samples of Black Americans (total sample of 783 participants). The ICS proved to have both good reliability and good structural validity. Moreover, the ICS proved to be significantly related to other important constructs such as parental socialization, skin tone, self-esteem, stereotypes, racial identity, and socioeconomic status. The implications of the ICS for both research and practical applications are discussed.
Should Students Have the Power to Change Course Structure?
Authors: McDonnell Gerald P. , Dodd Michael D.
Published: February 2017

In the present article, we describe a course exercise in which students were administered four course evaluation forms throughout the semester, on which they provided their overall impressions of the class as well as their desire to change certain aspects of the course. Critically, during the semester, a total of three changes were made to the structure of the course as voted on by the students. Compared to the previous semester where students completed only end-of-semester evaluations, improvements in exam performance as well as instructor ratings were observed. Furthermore, students indicated that the changes made throughout the semester improved the course, and they hoped that other classes would adopt a similar classroom developmental strategy. This supports a growing body of evidence, suggesting that midsemester feedback is crucial for optimizing the learning environment for the student, particularly when concrete changes are made after the administration of course feedback.
Mental health profiles and quality of life among Korean adolescents
Authors: Kim Eui Kyung , Dowdy Erin , Furlong Michael J. , You Sukkyung
Published: February 2017

In an attempt to identify and intervene with students in need of services, the South Korean government has implemented national mental health screening. However, concerns raised about the unintended stigmatization of the screening assessment that focuses on student deficits prompts the need for additional research. This study evaluated the potential utility of an alternative screening approach that considers student strengths, in addition to symptoms of distress. Using a sample of 1,190 Korean adolescents enrolled in grades seven to nine, two latent profile analyses were conducted to identify underlying mental health strength and distress subtypes. Results identified five subtypes of psychological strengths and three subtypes of psychological distress. As hypothesized, students with higher levels of strengths and lower levels of distress reported better quality of life, academic performance, and higher life satisfaction. Implications for school based mental health screening and future directions for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
The medium is the mob
Authors: Shapiro Aaron
Published: February 2017

Conventional narratives frame flash mobs as exemplary of the broader changes in politics, culture, and social relations brought on by new media technologies. Missing from these stories is an account of the mob itself. How do we make sense of the mob’s intensities, of the sublime power that emanates from the congregation of bodies together in space, and the ambiguities with which those intensities are received – without reducing these dimensions to the overdetermined power of a new medium? Using a broader theorization of mediation, I argue that the mob needs to be accounted for as a medium unto itself, that flash mobs present a complex ‘intermedium’ relationship between new media and the mob as a powerful but ambiguous social mediation, and that by attributing the apparent power to new media technologies, we risk undermining the efficacy of the mob as a political figuration.
Immigrant status, gender, and school burnout in Finnish lower secondary school students
Authors: Salmela-Aro Katariina , Read Sanna , Minkkinen Jaana , Kinnunen Jaana M. , Rimpelä Arja
Published: February 2017

The aim of this longitudinal study among 9223 students from grade 7 and grade 9 (age 13–14 and 15–16) was to assess whether immigrant status and gender are associated with the level and change (slope) in school burnout among lower secondary school students in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Ninety-seven percent of the variation in school burnout was attributable to individual factors. Both the intercept (2.3, p < 0.001) and slope (0.5, p < 0.001) of school burnout were statistically significant. The slope showed increasing school burnout from grades 7–9. School burnout increased more in girls than in boys. Initially apparent higher school burnout among students who had immigrated to Finland within the last five years compared to Finnish native students was largely accounted for by sociodemographic and school-related factors. However, there was a persistent gender by immigrant status difference in the fully adjusted model: recently (< 5 years ago) immigrated boys experienced a larger increase in school burnout, especially due to increased cynicism, than recently immigrated girls.
A simple model of balancing in the plane and a simple preview balance controller
Authors: Featherstone Roy
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a new model of the dynamics of a general planar robot balancing on a point in the plane, in which the essential parameters of the robot’s balancing behaviour are reduced to just two numbers, both of which are simple functions of basic physical properties of the robot mechanism. A third number describes the effect of other movements on the robot’s balance. This model gives rise to a simple preview balance controller consisting of a four-term control law with easily calculated gains and a reverse-time low-pass filter acting on a preview of the command signal. The filter makes the robot lean in anticipation of future movements. Simulation results are presented showing the balance controller achieving excellent tracking of large fast motion commands while simultaneously maintaining the robot’s balance and accurately rejecting disturbances caused by other motions being performed by the robot. The controller is also robust to effects such as actuator saturation and sensor noise.
Landslide risk reduction measures: A review of practices and challenges for the tropics
Authors: Maes Jan , Kervyn Matthieu , de Hontheim Astrid , Dewitte Olivier , Jacobs Liesbet , Mertens Kewan , Vanmaercke Matthias , Vranken Liesbet , Poesen Jean
Published: February 2017

The overall objective of this review is to gain insights into landslide risk reduction measures that are applied or recommended in tropical landslide-prone countries, and the challenges at play. More specifically, this review aims to (i) presenting an overview of recent studies on landslides and landslide risk reduction in these countries, (ii) exploring the factors controlling the publication output on landslides and landslide risk reduction, (iii) reviewing the various landslide risk reduction measures recommended and implemented, and (iv) identifying the bottlenecks for the implementation of these strategies. A compilation of recommended and implemented landslide risk reduction measures in 99 landslide-prone tropical countries was made, based on an extensive review of scientific literature (382 publications). The documented measures are analysed using a scheme of risk reduction measures that combines classifications of the Hyogo Framework for Action and the SafeLand project. Our literature review shows that the factors influencing the number of publications on landslides and landslide risk reduction per country are (in order of importance) the absolute physical exposure of people to landslides, the population number and the Human Development Index of a country. The ratio of publications on landslide risk reduction versus publications on landslides for landslide-prone tropical countries does not vary much between these countries (average: 0.28). A significant fraction (0.30) of all known landslide hazard reduction measures are neither implemented nor recommended according to our review. The most recommended landslide risk reduction component is ‘risk management and vulnerability reduction’ (0.38). However, the most implemented component is ‘risk assessment’ (0.57). Overall, the ratio of implemented versus recommended landslide risk reduction measures in the tropics is low (<0.50) for most landslide risk reduction components, except for ‘risk assessment’ (3.01). The most cited bottlenecks for implementing landslide risk reduction measures are scientific (0.30) and political (0.29) in nature.
History of facial pain diagnosis
Authors: Zakrzewska Joanna M , Jensen Troels S
Published: February 2017

Premise

Facial pain refers to a heterogeneous group of clinically and etiologically different conditions with the common clinical feature of pain in the facial area. Among these conditions, trigeminal neuralgia (TN), persistent idiopathic facial pain, temporomandibular joint pain, and trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TAC) are the most well described conditions.

Conclusion

TN has been known for centuries, and is recognised by its characteristic and almost pathognomonic clinical features. The other facial pain conditions are less well defined, and over the years there has been confusion about their classification.
Towards reconciliation or mediated non-identity? Feenberg’s aesthetic critique of technology
Authors: Kirkpatrick Graeme
Published: February 2017

This article interrogates Andrew Feenberg’s thesis that modern technology is in need of ‘re-aestheticization’. The notion that modern technology requires aesthetic critique connects his political analysis of micro-contexts of social shaping to his wider concern with civilization change. The former involves a modified constructionism, in which the motives, values and beliefs of proximal agents are understood in terms of their wider sociological significance. This remedies a widely acknowledged blind-spot of conventional constructionism, enabling Feenberg to identify democratic potential in progressive agency at the scene of technology design. Feenberg argues that the aesthetics of naturalistic modernism may serve as a bridge between such interventions and cultural transformation. Referring to developments in design culture, especially as this relates to the human-machine interface on digital artefacts, the article suggests that this part of Feenberg’s argument has been falsified. This kind of aesthetic modernism is hegemonic in contemporary design and it has not brought about significant progressive advance. In conclusion, the article suggests a different approach to aesthetic critique that is based on difference rather than wholeness, and on the principle that there is no inherent correspondence of aesthetic standards and ethics in technology design.
Questioning technology in South America
Authors: Martens Cheryl
Published: February 2017

This paper examines Andrew Feenberg’s radical democratic politics of technology in relation to the context of Ecuador’s free and open software movement. It considers the articulation of this movement via the government sponsored activist project FLOK Society (Free/Libre Open Knowledge Society). Based on an ethnographic study (2015–16), which included interviews with FLOK Society coordinators, the paper discusses how such government-activist collaborations, may be useful in expanding Feenberg’s notion of technical politics and the nature of representation in the technical sphere. More specifically, the paper looks at the political shaping of technology, in relation to concepts about ‘the Good Life’, or ‘Buen Vivir’ in the case of Ecuador, and its drive toward a knowledge economy, based on the concepts of ‘Buen Conocer’ and ‘Bioconocimiento’ (Good Knowing and Bioknowledge). The paper argues that certain premises held by Feenberg concerning technical politics, democracy and populism in particular may need to be reconsidered in light of developments in Ecuador.
Low-velocity impact performance of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics modified with carbon nanotube, nanoclay and hybrid nanoparticles
Authors: Mahdi Tanjheel H , Islam Md Ekramul , Hosur Mahesh V , Jeelani Shaik
Published: February 2017

Addition of nanoparticles in polymeric composites for use in fabrication and characterization of fiber-reinforced plastic composites has recently shown a lot of promise. Nanoparticles typically used in most studies include multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and nanoclay. In the current research, in addition to including nanoclay and MWCNTs individually, we have also studied the effect of hybrid of the two in enhancing the impact performance of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites. We have fabricated CFRP composites with 0.3 wt.% of MWCNTs, 2 wt.% of nanoclay and hybrid of MWCNTs and nanoclay at 0.1 wt.% and 2 wt.%, respectively. Control samples were also fabricated with no nanoparticles. Composite laminates were subjected to impact loading at 30, 40 and 50 J energy levels. Energy, load, displacement and velocity responses of samples were obtained. Damage area of control and all modified samples were investigated using digital thermography technique and compared. MWCNT and nanoclay enhanced the impact properties and reduced the damaged area of composite samples slightly. However, significant improvement was noticed for the hybrid nanoparticle-reinforced composite samples.
Making sustainability messages work and lessons learned
Authors: Stockmann Tanja
Published: February 2017

This article examines how to make environmental sustainability messages work in a multi-site healthcare setting, and offers possible solutions to the challenges encountered. Issues such as how to ensure that messages resonate with employees are discussed and strategies for collaborating with internal partners are outlined.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis health
Authors: McNally Mary , Martin Debbie
Published: February 2017

First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples living in Canada face profound health disparities relative to non-Indigenous Canadians on almost every measure of health and well-being. Advancing health opportunities for Indigenous peoples require responses at all levels of healthcare delivery and policy. Therefore, it is critical for health leaders and providers within Canada’s healthcare institutions, systems, and settings to understand and address the determinants of health unique to Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of colonialism and both long-standing and present-day racism. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada provides a starting point from which positive responses to injustices can be advanced.
Cambodian Remarried Women Are at Risk for Domestic Violence
Authors: Eng Sothy , Szmodis Whitney , Grace Kelly
Published: February 2017

Divorce rates continue to rise, especially in urban centers, which in turn contributes to increasing numbers of women who remarry. While remarriage is one of the only options for survival for divorced women, especially those from low socioeconomic status, remarriage also brings with it increased stressors of financial strain and the strain of blended families. This study tested the hypothesis that remarried women compared with first-time married and divorced women are at increased risk for domestic violence. The sample was drawn from the Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey, consisting of 1,560 women with the average age of 31.64. Results showed that 20% of women reported emotional violence and 14%, physical violence. Based on hierarchical multiple regressions, this study found that remarried women were more likely to experience physical and emotional abuse than women in their first marriage or women who remain divorced/not in union. Further interaction analyses showed that domestic violence varies depending on place of residence, number of children younger than 5 years, partners’ education, and wealth index. Rural residents who were in poorest and poorer groups and urban residents in their poorer and middle groups of their wealth index showed high risk of domestic violence. Remarried women with two or three children younger than 5 years showed highest risk of domestic violence. Additional three-way interaction analysis revealed that remarried women residing in rural/urban areas with a spouse having no education and/or primary level of education were at highest risk of domestic violence. The study lends support to the structural role of the power of male dominance on women’s social and emotional well-being. This study suggested that to reduce men’s perceived domination, structural intervention that includes implementing gender-responsive curriculum in formal education, as well as strengthening domestic violence law enforcement would help reduce domestic violence against women.
To Reveal or Conceal: Using Communication Privacy Management Theory to Understand Disclosures in the Workplace
Authors: Smith Stephanie A. , Brunner Steven R.
Published: February 2017

A sample of 103 full-time employees from various organizations and industries completed an online, open-ended survey to explore and understand the decisions people make to manage their private disclosures at work. Communication privacy management theory was used to understand the management of private information. Results indicate that core and catalyst criteria motivate people to reveal/conceal at work, such as boundary maintenance based on organizational culture, relational considerations, a desire for feedback, and risk/benefit considerations. People also used implicit/explicit rules, reiteration of privacy rules, and retaliation to limit and respond to turbulence. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed along with limitations and directions for future research.
How State Education Agencies Are Administering School Turnaround Efforts: 15 Years After No Child Left Behind
Authors: VanGronigen Bryan A. , Meyers Coby V.
Published: February 2017

School turnaround—the rapid improvement of student achievement in low-performing schools—is increasingly a major topic of interest in K-12 public education. Federal legislation has left varying degrees of school improvement–related responsibilities up to states, and policy makers have divergent views about how to realize turnaround. We investigate and describe how each state education agency (SEA) is administering school turnaround efforts in federally designated priority schools. To accomplish this, we examined a variety of publicly available documents from SEA websites and summarized the data into three overarching categories. We discuss how this finding has significant implications for policy makers and SEAs, especially as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is implemented.
Path planning with Pythagorean-hodograph curves for unmanned or autonomous vehicles
Authors: Farouki Rida T , Giannelli Carlotta , Mugnaini Duccio , Sestini Alessandra
Published: February 2017

Pythagorean-hodograph (PH) curves offer distinct advantages in planning curvilinear paths for unmanned or autonomous air, ground, or underwater vehicles. Although several authors have discussed their use in these contexts, prior studies contain misconceptions about the properties of PH curves or invoke heuristic approximate constructions when exact methods are available. To address these issues, the present study provides a basic introduction to the key properties of PH curves, and describes some exact constructions of particular interest in path planning. These include (a) maintenance of minimum safe separations within vehicle swarms; (b) construction of paths of different shape but identical arc length, ensuring simultaneous arrival of vehicles travelling at a constant speed; (c) determination of the curvature extrema of PH paths, and their modification to satisfy a given curvature bound; and (d) construction of curvature-continuous paths of bounded curvature through fields of polygonal obstacles.
Performance analysis of microelectromechanical thrusters using a direct simulation Monte Carlo solver
Authors: Lekzian E , Ebrahimi A , Parhizkar H
Published: February 2017

Abstract

In the present study, a direct simulation Monte Carlo solver is utilized to simulate the effects of heater plates on the performance parameters of microelectromechanical propulsion devices. The simulation is two dimensional. Proper cell dimensions, number of particles per cell, and grid study are used to guarantee the accuracy of simulations. Three types of microthrusters including cold gas as type 1, a propulsion device with heaters in the walls as type 2, and a microthruster with heater plates inside the domain as type 3 are studied. Type 1 is considered as a reference case and two other types are compared with type 1. It is observed that heater plates inside the microelectromechanical thruster enhance the downstream temperature due to conversion of pressure drop occurred by plates into temperature. In type 3, the specific impulse is enhanced but the thrust force is decreased in comparison with type 1. Heating the walls in type 2 accelerates the flow while there is no considerable pressure reduction. Moreover, all performance parameters are increased in this type. It is also demonstrated that increasing of wall temperature increases thrust and specific impulse and decreases the sensitivity of thruster due to rarefaction effects.
Observation satellite attitude estimation using sensor measurement and image registration fusion
Authors: Zhang Zhao-Xiang , Xu Guo-Dong , Song Jia-Ning
Published: February 2017

In order to enhance the accuracy and the robustness of the attitude determination and control system in observation satellites, a new way to fuse gyro and star tracker measurement with image registration is described. In this method, a novel and complete framework is proposed to estimate the on-orbit attitude variations from multi-spectrum remote sensing images. An extended Kalman filter is derived to calibrate the gyro bias drift and the star tracker error. The new framework is tested with realistically simulated data and remote sensing images based on JL-1 satellite. Simulation and experiment results indicate that based on the image registration, the satellite attitude variations could be detected in real time and applied for the accurate gyro and star tracker bias calibration.
Logged In and Zoned Out
Authors: Ravizza Susan M. , Uitvlugt Mitchell G. , Fenn Kimberly M.
Published: February 2017

Laptop computers are widely prevalent in university classrooms. Although laptops are a valuable tool, they offer access to a distracting temptation: the Internet. In the study reported here, we assessed the relationship between classroom performance and actual Internet usage for academic and nonacademic purposes. Students who were enrolled in an introductory psychology course logged into a proxy server that monitored their online activity during class. Past research relied on self-report, but the current methodology objectively measured time, frequency, and browsing history of participants’ Internet usage. In addition, we assessed whether intelligence, motivation, and interest in course material could account for the relationship between Internet use and performance. Our results showed that nonacademic Internet use was common among students who brought laptops to class and was inversely related to class performance. This relationship was upheld after we accounted for motivation, interest, and intelligence. Class-related Internet use was not associated with a benefit to classroom performance.
Ensemble Perception of Dynamic Emotional Groups
Authors: Elias Elric , Dyer Michael , Sweeny Timothy D.
Published: February 2017

Crowds of emotional faces are ubiquitous, so much so that the visual system utilizes a specialized mechanism known as ensemble coding to see them. In addition to being proximally close, members of emotional crowds, such as a laughing audience or an angry mob, often behave together. The manner in which crowd members behave—in sync or out of sync—may be critical for understanding their collective affect. Are ensemble mechanisms sensitive to these dynamic properties of groups? Here, observers estimated the average emotion of a crowd of dynamic faces. The members of some crowds changed their expressions synchronously, whereas individuals in other crowds acted asynchronously. Observers perceived the emotion of a synchronous group more precisely than the emotion of an asynchronous crowd or even a single dynamic face. These results demonstrate that ensemble representation is particularly sensitive to coordinated behavior, and they suggest that shared behavior is critical for understanding emotion in groups.
From a religious view of madness to religious mania: the Encyclopédie, Pinel, Esquirol
Authors: Huneman Philippe
Published: February 2017

This paper focuses on the shift from a concept of insanity understood in terms of religion to another (as entertained by early psychiatry, especially in France) according to which it is believed that forms of madness tinged by religion are difficult to cure. The traditional religious view of madness, as exemplified by Pascal (inter alia), is first illustrated by entries from the Encyclopédie. Then the shift towards a medical view of madness, inspired by Vitalistic physiology, is mapped by entries taken from the same publication. Firmed up by Pinel, this shift caused the abandonment of the religious view. Esquirol considered religious mania to be a vestige from the past, but he also believed that mental conditions carrying a religious component were difficult to cure.
Prognostic significance of renal vascular pathology in lupus nephritis
Authors: Mejía-Vilet J M , Córdova-Sánchez B M , Uribe-Uribe N O , Correa-Rotter R , Morales-Buenrostro L E
Published: February 2017

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis to define the prognostic significance of vascular lesions documented in renal biopsies of lupus nephritis patients. A total of 429 patients were segregated into five groups: (1) no vascular lesions (NVL), (2) arterial sclerosis (AS), (3) non-inflammatory necrotizing vasculitis (NNV), (4) thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), and (5) true renal vasculitis (TRV). Renal outcomes were analyzed by Cox regression models, and correlations between vascular lesions and activity/chronicity scores were determined by Spearman's coefficients. A total of 200 (46.6%) had NVL, 189 (44.0%) AS, six NNV (1.4%), 23 (5.4%) TMA, and 11 (2.6%) TRV. Patients with NVL were younger, with higher renal function; patients with TMA and TRV had lower renal function and higher arterial pressure at baseline. Antiphospholipid syndrome and positive lupus anticoagulant were more frequently observed in the TMA group. Five-year renal survival was 83% for NVL, 63% for AS, 67% for NNV, 31% for TMA, and 33% for TRV. NNV and TRV were significantly correlated with activity scores, while AS and chronic TMA were correlated with chronicity scores. Renal vascular lesions are associated with renal outcomes but do not behave as independent factors. The addition of vascular lesions to currently used scores should be further explored.
Designing fecal microbiota transplant trials that account for differences in donor stool efficacy
Authors: Olesen Scott W , Gurry Thomas , Alm Eric J
Published: February 2017

Fecal microbiota transplantation is a highly effective intervention for patients suffering from recurrent Clostridium difficile, a common hospital-acquired infection. Fecal microbiota transplantation’s success as a therapy for C. difficile has inspired interest in performing clinical trials that experiment with fecal microbiota transplantation as a therapy for other conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease. Results from clinical trials that use fecal microbiota transplantation to treat inflammatory bowel disease suggest that, for at least one condition beyond C. difficile, most fecal microbiota transplantation donors produce stool that is not efficacious. The optimal strategies for identifying and using efficacious donors have not been investigated. We therefore examined the optimal Bayesian response-adaptive strategy for allocating patients to donors and formulated a computationally tractable myopic heuristic. This heuristic computes the probability that a donor is efficacious by updating prior expectations about the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation, the placebo rate, and the fraction of donors that produce efficacious stool. In simulations designed to mimic a recent fecal microbiota transplantation clinical trial, for which traditional power calculations predict [Formula: see text] statistical power, we found that accounting for differences in donor stool efficacy reduced the predicted statistical power to [Formula: see text]. For these simulations, using the heuristic Bayesian allocation strategy more than quadrupled the statistical power to [Formula: see text]. We use the results of similar simulations to make recommendations about the number of patients, the number of donors, and the choice of clinical endpoint that clinical trials should use to optimize their ability to detect if fecal microbiota transplantation is effective for treating a condition.
Child labour in Pakistan: Addressing supply and demand side labour market dynamics
Authors: Fatima Ambreen
Published: February 2017

This article uses empirical evidence, based on labour market indicators, to analyse the factors influencing the incidence of child labour in Pakistan, from both supply and demand sides. The level of demand for child labour is shown to be linked mainly to adult wage levels, the adult unemployment rate in an area, and the size of the informal and agriculture sectors. The supply of child labour is seen to be positively linked to the proportion of adult unemployment in the household. Unlike previous studies, the article analyses both demand and supply side factors in a context of poverty and takes account of the co-existence of formal and informal labour markets. Furthermore, to generalise the issue for a longer span of time (which previous studies fail to do), it adopts the methodology of a pseudo-panel approach based on that proposed by Deaton. This approach makes it possible to pinpoint more accurately the factors, and their interaction, that need to be considered in any effective policy approach to the issue of child labour. To prevent unintended consequences, a multi-faceted development approach is required.
“The Devil Made Me Do It!” An Inquiry Into the Unconscious “Devils Within” of Rationalized Corruption
Authors: De Klerk Jeremias J.
Published: February 2017

Individuals involved in corruption often offer rationalizations to convince themselves and others that they are not corrupt, and that their acts are justified and acceptable. However, to confine the dynamic process of mobilizing rationalizations to this purpose is too restrictive. Drawing on psychoanalytic theory, it is argued that an unconscious urge for rationalizations develops from a need to find psychological restitution and atonement, achieved only through self-convincing beliefs of acquittal. Six unconscious motives are identified as explanations how offenders believe that rationalizations acquit them from guilt, indemnify them, or redeem the corruption. These motives represent metaphorical devils that can spawn corruption in otherwise law-abiding citizens with moral intentions. Conceptualizations bring the unconscious dynamics or rationalized corruption into consciousness, where it can be studied and worked with. This makes an important contribution toward enabling managers to be more in control of rationalized corruption, both in themselves and elsewhere in the organization.
Adenocarcinoma of the Lung Metastatic to the Ovary With a Signet Ring Cell Component
Authors: Giordano Giovanna , Cruz Viruel Nelly , Silini Enrico Maria , Nogales Francisco F.
Published: February 2017

A nonsmoker 45-year-old woman, presented with a solid right ovarian mass. Microscopic examination revealed heterogeneous histology with tubular formations and extensive signet ring cell component that resembled the usual appearance of metastatic gastric carcinoma to the ovary. Moreover, the histology also showed solid nests of cells with a microvacuolated basophilic cytoplasm similar to those found in adenosquamous cervical carcinoma of glassy cell type. However, analysis of the patient’s past history revealed a lung adenocarcinoma, diagnosed 4 years before, which prompted an immunohistochemical differential diagnosis, showing a strong expression for TTF-1 and Napsin A. A cervical primary was excluded taking into account both macroscopic findings and the negative expression of PAX8 and absence of human papillomavirus–related marker p16. This confirmed the pulmonary origin of ovarian tumor despite its heterogeneous morphology. This is the first reported case of ovarian metastatic lung adenocarcinoma, with a signet ring cell component and solid nests, mimicking both metastatic gastric carcinoma and adenosquamous carcinoma of glassy cell type.
The Orthopaedic Surgeon's Role in the Treatment and Prevention of Diabetic Foot Wounds
Authors: Strauss Michael B.
Published: February 2017

Foot ulcers in individuals with diabetes often are the precursors to lower extremity amputation. The multidisciplinary team approach is highly effective in the prevention and treatment of diabetic foot morbidity. This article focuses on the role of the orthopaedic surgeon as a member of the wound care team for the diabetic foot.
Guidelines for Diabetic Foot Care: Recommendations Endorsed by the Diabetes Committee of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
Authors: Pinzur Michael S. , Slovenkai Mark P. , Trepman Elly , Shields Naomi N.
Published: February 2017

Foot infection is the most common reason for hospital admission of diabetic patients in the United States. Foot ulceration leads to deep infection, sepsis, and lower extremity amputation. Prophylactic foot care has been shown to decrease patient morbidity, decrease the utilization of expensive resources, and decrease the risk for amputation and premature death. The Diabetes Committee of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society has developed guidelines for the implementation of this type of prophylactic foot care. The screening examination includes evaluation for peripheral neuropathy, skin integrity, ulcers or wounds, deformity, vascular insufficiency, and footwear. Foot-specific patient education includes instruction on self-examination and foot care practices. Individualized foot-specific patient education is indicated for patients with peripheral neuropathy. Treatment is outlined based on risk level, which is determined by the presence of peripheral neuropathy, deformity, and ulcer history. Treatment combines patient education, orthoses, footwear, and a timetable for ongoing skin and nail care. Ulcer care includes paring of calluses, debridement of infected or nonviable tissue, dressings, and off-loading. Specialty assistance may be required from a vascular surgeon, orthopaedic surgeon, podiatrist, endocrinologist/diabetologist, infectious disease consultant, radiologist, and pedorthist.