bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between miR-492 rs2289030 G>C and susceptibility to Hirschsprung disease in southern Chinese children
Authors: Zheng Yi , Liu Yanqing , Wang Mi , He Qiuming , Xie Xiaoli , Lu Lifeng , Zhong Wei
Published: October 2020

Objective

Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) originates from disruption of normal neural crest cell migration, differentiation, and proliferation during the fifth to eighth weeks of gestation. This results in the absence of intestinal ganglion cells in the distal intestinal tract. However, genetic variations affecting embryonic development of intestinal ganglion cells are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigated the potential value of miR-492 rs2289030 G>C as a marker of susceptibility to HSCR

Methods

In this case–control study in southern Chinese children, we collected samples from 1473 controls and 1470 patients with HSCR. TaqMan genotyping of miR-492 rs2289030 G>C was performed by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that there was no significant association between the presence of the miR-492 rs2289030 G>C polymorphism and susceptibility to HSCR by evaluating the values of pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Similarly, among different HSCR subtypes, rs2289030 G>C was also not associated with HSCR in hierarchical analysis.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the miR-492 rs2289030 G>C polymorphism is not associated with susceptibility to HSCR in southern Chinese children. These results need to be further confirmed by investigating a more diverse ethnic population of patients with HSCR.
Chromatographic and spectroscopic determination of solvent-extracted Lantana camara leaf oil
Authors: Ayalew Adane Adugna
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study aimed to determine the chemical profile of Lantana camara leaf oil.

Methods

The essential oil was extracted from dried leaf samples using the Soxhlet extraction method. The oil was separated from the solvent and the bioactive compounds were identified using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The identified peaks in the mass spectrum were matched with the database of the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) library.

Results

The FT-IR results indicated the presence of alcohols, carboxylic acids, phenols, alkanes, ketones, and primary amine compounds. GC-MS identified 43 compounds representing 95% of the total leaf essential oil components. Some of the major isolated compounds included a pyrrolizine; 1-dodecanol; 1,2-nonadecanediol; phytol; 1,3-dioxolane; 4-undecene, 9-methyl, (Z)-; 1-eicosanol; and imidazole.

Conclusions

The identified constituents of the extracted oil have established pharmacologic and insecticidal activities, and these compounds are also used in the drink, food, and cosmetic industries. This extract is highly valuable for the medical treatment of various ailments.
Pretreatment plasma d-dimer levels as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival among patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Qianfei , He Jianbo , Ning Ruiling , Tan Liping , Zeng Aiping , Zhou Shaozhang
Published: October 2020

Objective

To evaluate the prognostic accuracy of d-dimer levels for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 651 patients initially diagnosed with advanced NSCLC. Patients with d-dimer levels ≥0.5 mg/L were included in the high d-dimer group, whereas patients with lower levels were included in the normal group. Cumulative survival was estimated using Kaplan–Meier curves and compared using the log-rank test. Multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The median plasma d-dimer level in the study cohort was 0.61 ± 0.49 mg/L. d-dimer levels were elevated in 60.98% of patients, and 80.1% of such patients had adenocarcinoma. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified d-dimer content as an independent factor for the prognosis of NSCLC (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19–1.98). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that high plasma d-dimer levels were associated with shorter overall survival (HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.19–1.84). In addition, the receipt of <2 lines of treatment was associated with a higher risk of death than the receipt of >2 lines.

Conclusion

The present results imply that pretreatment plasma d-dimer levels could represent a prognostic factor for advanced NSCLC.
Correlations between lipoprotein(a) gene polymorphisms and calcific aortic valve disease and coronary heart disease in Han Chinese
Authors: Dong Hongzhi , Cong Hongliang , Wang Jing , Jiang Yiyao , Liu Chao , Zhang Yingyi , Zhu Yanbo , Wang Qingtong
Published: October 2020

Objective

To investigate the relationship between lipoprotein(a) gene ( LPA) polymorphisms and calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD) in Han Chinese.

Methods

A total of 148 patients were recruited (n = 71 with CAVD and n = 77 with CHD) based on a diagnosis achieved using color Doppler echocardiography, coronary angiography, or computed tomography angiography. Seventy-one control individuals without CAVD or CHD were also recruited. Biomarkers including levels of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, and apolipoprotein B were tested. LPA polymorphisms rs10455872, rs6415084, rs3798221, and rs7770628 were analyzed using SNaPshot SNP.

Results

Lp(a) levels were significantly higher in CAVD and CHD groups compared with controls. There was no significant difference in the allelic frequency distribution of rs3798221, rs7770628, or rs6415084 between CHD, CAVD, and control groups. Linear regression showed that rs3798221, rs7770628, and rs6415084 were associated with increased Lp(a) concentrations. Two CAVD patients among the 219 participants carried AG minor alleles at rs10455872, while the remainder carried AA minor alleles.

Conclusion

rs3798221, rs6415084, and rs7770628 polymorphisms within LPA are associated with higher Lp(a) plasma levels, which correlate with increased CAVD and CHD risks.
Primary intramedullary malignant melanoma: can imaging lead to the correct diagnosis?
Authors: Corrêa Diogo Goulart , dos Santos Roberto Queiroz , Hygino da Cruz Luiz Celso
Published: October 2020

Melanoma is a malignant neoplasm of melanin-producing cells. Melanoma usually occurs in the skin, but can also arise in any anatomical site that contains melanocytes, such as mucous membranes, the eyes, and the central nervous system (CNS). Primary CNS malignant melanoma most often develops in the leptomeninges. We report a case of a rare intramedullary melanoma of the thoracic spinal cord. A 78-year-old man was treated with surgery, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy for leptomeningeal spread. We also discuss the role of imaging methods in diagnosis and follow-up. Medullary melanoma occurs more frequently in adults. The most common presenting symptoms are the insidious onset of lower extremity weakness and paresthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging is the method of choice for evaluation. Although there are no imaging features to accurately distinguish primary malignant melanoma from other melanocytic or hemorrhagic tumors, hyperintensity on T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging should lead to inclusion of this neoplasm in differential diagnosis of spinal cord tumors. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography is a useful auxiliary examination to evaluate the extent of local and metastatic disease. Surgical resection is the primary treatment for intramedullary melanoma. However, the efficacy of adjunctive radiotherapy and chemotherapy for primary spinal cord malignant melanoma is still controversial.
Severe acitretin-induced diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: a case report
Authors: Gour-Provençal Gabrielle , Newman Nicholas M. , Boudier-Revéret Mathieu , Chang Min Cheol
Published: October 2020

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), also known as Forestier–Rotes–Querol disease, is a systemic noninflammatory disease characterized by ossification of the entheses. DISH predominantly affects the spine. Although peripheral involvement is also often reported, it rarely affects patients’ function. A 77-year-old man presented to our emergency department because of incapacitating pain and stiffness in the spine and hips. The patient had been diagnosed with biopsy-proven mycosis fungoides 3 years earlier and had been treated with oral acitretin at 25 to 50 mg daily since diagnosis. However, the patient gradually developed a severely limited range of motion in his spine and hips (left > right), significantly impairing his mobility and activities of daily living. Cervical and dorsolumbar radiographs showed extensive ossification along the anterior longitudinal ligament; this finding was compatible with DISH and had not been present in radiographs taken 3 years earlier. Pelvic radiographs showed multiple enthesophytes predominantly around the coxofemoral joints. DISH has been reported as a possible long-term adverse effect of acitretin. Despite optimal conservative treatment, the patient remained severely impaired and thus finally underwent extensive osteophyte excision and total hip replacement on the left side. His acitretin therapy was also stopped to prevent further progression of his DISH.
Comparative Evaluation of Dimensional Accuracy, Surface Characteristics, and Load Deflection Attributes of 0.019" × 0.025" Stainless Steel Wires Sourced from Six Different Commercial Houses: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kolge Neeraj E , Patni Vivek J , Karandikar Girish , VK Ravindranath , Daga Prateek , Madhaswar Aarti B
Published: October 2020

Aims & Objectives:

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare dimensional accuracy, surface characteristics and load deflection attributes of SS wires sourced from six different commercial houses.

Materials & Methods:

0.019” x 0.025” SS wire samples were divided into 6 groups and evaluated and compared for the aforementioned properties. Dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, frictional resistance, load deflection rate and ultimate tensile strength were evaluated and compared.

Results:

Dimensional accuracy did not vary significantly. Surface Profilometry proved 3M Unitek (Group 1) to be the wire with least irregularities. According to SEM, Modern Orthodontics (Group 6) and 3M Unitek (Group 1) in terms of ‘Sa’ and ‘Sq’ respectively had the smoothest surface finish. SS wires sourced from G&H Orthodontics (Group 2) exhibited least frictional resistance. Load deflection rates varied for all the groups for all three parameters under the study. UTS was best for SS wires sourced from Rabbit Force Orthodontics (Group 5).

Conclusion:

No wire from a single commercial house excels in all the parameters that were evaluated, each one having its aces and minuses.
Comparison of Cervical Vertebral Body Volume in Class II Vertical and Class II Horizontal Cases With Class I Cases Using 3D-DVT
Authors: Dargahwala Hamza Saifuddin , Daigavane Pallavi , SD Vausdevan , Kamble Ranjit , Shrivastav Sunita , Khakhar Prutha Ganesh
Published: October 2020

The branch of orthodontics has had an interest in the cervical vertebrae wherein cervical spine is used as a reference structure for natural head position, so skeletal age was evaluated by studying variations in the cervical vertebral morphologies. Among all evaluations, very limited data is available wherein comparison between cervical vertebral body volumes between the different malocclusions has been done. This study aimed to compare the differences in the volumes of cervical vertebral bodies of C2, C3, and C4 between skeletal class I and class II malocclusions of both horizontal and vertical growth patterns. In class I the volume was significantly lesser as compared to class II. It was seen that there was statistically no significant difference in the volume between the horizontal and vertical growers. It can be concluded from this study that cervical vertebral body volume has no effect on growth pattern. However, variations in cervical vertebral body volume are seen with different malocclusions.
Connected Vehicle Training Framework and Lessons Learned to Improve Safety of Highway Patrol Troopers
Authors: Subedi Biraj , Gaweesh Sherif M. , Yang Guangchuan , Ahmed Mohamed M.
Published: October 2020

The Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) investigates more than 7,000 vehicle crashes yearly, often as first-hand responders. They often drive at high speeds through difficult road/weather conditions and under enormous secondary workloads, leading to an increased risk of crash. Connected vehicle (CV) technology can communicate timely road and traveler information messages (TIMs) to troopers, which could significantly reduce the frequency, severity, or both, of these crashes. The majority of the troopers, however, might not be familiar with driving a CV. This paper developed a “first responder-specific” training program on safe interaction with the technology and an in-depth assessment of how these new technologies are perceived by the troopers. The training program contains an E-training module and a hands-on driving simulator training module. The E-training presents concept of various CV warnings and notifications, including forward collision warning (FCW), spot weather warnings, work zone warnings, and other TIMs. Two scenarios were developed to familiarize troopers to simulated driving, two single-alert scenarios to help mastering the two most important warnings (FCW and variable speed limit), and two multiple-alert scenarios to train the troopers to drive in a comprehensive connected environment. A quiz section in the E-training module and comprehensive pre- and post-training questionnaire surveys were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed CV training program. According to the trainees from the WHP, the driving simulator provided impressively realistic real-life-like scenarios for the troopers to practice the CV warnings they learned during the E-training.
Students’ Beliefs About the Nature of Intelligence (Mindset)
Authors: de Kraker-Pauw Emmy , van Wesel Floryt , Krabbendam Lydia , van Atteveldt Nienke
Published: October 2020

Important adolescents’ career-related decisions might be influenced by their beliefs about malleability of intelligence and learning (mindset). We combined quantitative and qualitative data to provide in-depth insights in the beliefs that 13- and 14-year olds hold about learning and intelligence, the factors influencing these beliefs, and the consequences of these beliefs in relation to classroom behavior and study choices. To establish students’ mindsets quantitatively, we categorized theory of intelligence (TOI) questionnaire averaged scores into three levels: entity, intermediate, or incremental mindsets, to provide insight into the distribution of the different mindset types in our sample ( N = 492). The results of this quantitative study show that more than half of the students believed intelligence is “fixed” (entity mindset), these data showed no effect of gender. To gain more in-depth insight in the views of these students, focus groups about mindset and its influences and consequences were held in a subsample ( n = 176). The qualitative data provide more nuanced insights, for example, they reveal subtle gender differences regarding effort beliefs and motivation. Integrated discussion of the quantitative and qualitative results demonstrates that this multimethod approach reflects the complexity of the concept mindset better than only the widely used TOI questionnaire.
Developmental Dyspraxia in Children With Learning Disorders: Four-Year Experience in a Referred Sample
Authors: Waber Deborah P. , Boiselle Ellen C. , Yakut Ayse D. , Peek Carrie P. , Strand Kristine E. , Bernstein Jane H.
Published: October 2020

Objective:

The term apraxia is clearly understood in adult behavioral neurology, with assessment of gesture central to the diagnosis. In contrast, the concept of “developmental dyspraxia” has been more problematic. In an effort to better specify its potential significance, we describe preliminary practice-based evidence for understanding developmental dyspraxia acquired within a theoretical framework informed by both adult behavioral neurology and a neuroconstructivist appreciation of neurodevelopmental disorders. Specifically, we describe the experience of a diagnostic clinic for children with learning disorders that adopted this framework and compare clinical characteristics of children diagnosed with dyspraxia with those of children diagnosed with dyslexia during the same time period.

Method:

The dyspraxia diagnosis was based on the presence of impaired gesture and/or cognitive problems with planning. Over the target period, 71 children were diagnosed with dyspraxia and 114 children were diagnosed with dyslexia. Twenty-nine of the 71 children with dyspraxia were also diagnosed with dyslexia. Domains assessed included early developmental milestones, neurologic findings, cognition, speech and language, academic skills, and psychosocial functioning.

Results:

Compared to the dyslexia group, children with dyspraxia (with or without dyslexia) had more problems with speech and language planning and planning in everyday life. Children with dyspraxia without dyslexia had more frequent early motor delays and deficits in visuospatial production than the other groups. The dyslexia groups predictably demonstrated poorer single word reading and phonologic processing compared to the dyspraxia only group (all P < .01).

Conclusions:

A neurologic finding of impaired gesture in children with learning disorders may signal a broader neurodevelopmental profile of developmental dyspraxia with both theoretical relevance and meaningful implications for evaluation and treatment. Cognitive problems with planning are particularly relevant.
Hemostatic efficacy evaluation of radiation-crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose granules and kappa-carrageenan/polyethylene oxide/polyethylene glycol dressing in rat bleeding models
Authors: Tranquilan-Aranilla Charito , Barba Bin Jeremiah , Relleve Lorna , Estacio Maria Amelita , Abad Lucille
Published: October 2020

Carboxymethyl cellulose granules (CMC-G) and kappa-carrageenan/polyethylene oxide/polyethylene glycol dressing (KPP-D) hemostatic agents, developed through radiation-induced crosslinking and sterilization, were tested in Sprague-Dawley rats using three bleeding models: (a) deep wound with the puncture of femoral artery; (b) aortic puncture; and (c) partial nephrectomy. Dressing and granules were applied in the animals without sustained compression and monitored for a period of 7 or 14 days. Comparisons were made against the commercial chitosan-based agent, Celox (CLX). Primary outcomes observed were bleeding time, the incidence of re-bleeding, animal survival, as well as gross and microscopic changes. The KPP-D group showed the shortest bleeding time for all bleeding models (a. 2.75 ± 0.64, b. 1.63 ± 0.54, c. 2.05 ± 0.62), significantly faster than all the other treatment groups. KPP-D also registered the highest survival rate of 100% with no display of gross abnormalities. CMC-G showed comparable bleeding time with CLX products but had a better survival rate at 98% compared to 96%. The incidence of re-bleeding was greater in CLX treated groups as well as more occurrence of granular adhesions that impacted mortality outcomes. Findings indicate the efficacy of KPP-D in the treatment of severe hemorrhage due to traumatic injury and intraoperative cases, while CMC-G was more suited for external trauma. Complications arising from inflammation, granules deposition, and adhesions emphasize stringent handling and removal of granular hemostat as a critical consideration in hemostat development and testing.
Campus Sexual Violence Victims with Disabilities: Disclosure and Help Seeking
Authors: Kirkner Anne , Plummer Sara-Beth , Findley Patricia A. , McMahon Sarah
Published: October 2020

Undergraduate students with disabilities represent an important population on college campuses. Yet the incidence of sexual violence and disclosing/reporting of sexual violence among this population is understudied. This exploratory and largely descriptive study uses an intersectional framework to understand the sexual victimization of undergraduate students with disabilities at a large Mid-Atlantic academic institution. The sample consisted of students who completed a sexual violence module ( N = 2,929) as part of a larger campus climate survey. Students with disabilities comprised a smaller sample within this group ( n = 177) and descriptive and chi-square results from both groups of students are reported. Students with disabilities had a statistically significant higher likelihood of sexual violence victimization before coming to campus and while at the university, with much higher rates for precollege victimization than students with no disabilities. Disclosure rates were not different for students across the two groups, though students with disabilities were more likely to utilize formal sources of support, such as campus Title IX offices and mental health services. This study shows support for a strengths-based approach that recognizes that students with disabilities may be more likely to reach out to campus resources. The findings of the study also underscore the need for culturally relevant victim services for students with disabilities. An evaluation of the culture of a university and its environment of openness, sharing, community, and protection (or lack thereof) can be a key point for future approaches to sexual violence on campus.
Fast fixed-time convergent smooth adaptive guidance law with terminal angle constraint for interception of maneuvering targets
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: October 2020

This paper introduces a fast fixed-time guidance law with terminal angle constraint for interception of maneuvering targets, which is based on the structure of singularity-free fast terminal sliding mode and the fixed-time stability theory. Different from the finite-time stability, the fixed-time stability can predefine the maximum stabilization time of system states which is independent on the initial value of system states. Under the proposed guidance law, the guidance system can achieve stabilization within settling time which decides by the parameters of controller. In addition, an adaptive law is proposed which alleviate the chattering of sliding mode and smooths the guidance law. Meanwhile, the proof of the sliding mode manifold and system states fixed-time convergence is given by Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulations demonstrate the performance of the proposed guidance law is satisfying.
On the reductions of aerofoil-turbulence interaction noise through multi-wavelength leading edge serrations
Authors: Narayanan S , Singh Sushil Kumar
Published: October 2020

This paper provides an experimental study into the use of multi-wavelength sinusoidal leading edge ( LE) serrations for enhancing the aerofoil-broadband noise reductions. The noise reduction performances of multi-wavelength serration profiles introduced on a flat plate are compared against those generated by single-wavelength profiles when applied separately. The multi-wavelength leading edge serration is made in such a way that its maximum amplitude is kept same as that of each single-wavelength ones to be compared. The present study reveals that the dual-wavelength serrations provide higher noise reductions over a narrow band of frequencies as compared to single and triple wavelength ones. Further, it reveals that the noise reduction characteristics of dual-wavelength serrated airfoils are similar to the flat plates. It shows that the baseline plate generate higher noise radiations for all emission angles as compared to leading edge serrated plates, but the common feature among them is the downstream directivity. For the range of frequencies 0.9 to 5 kHz, the highest directivity is seen at an emission angle of 55° for the baseline, while it occurs at 75° for the serrated plates. The dual wavelength serrations generate lowest acoustic radiations as compared to single and triple ones for all the emission angles. Also, it is noticed that the radiation levels of the dual serrations decrease with increase in amplitude of the serration, which shows that the longer dual serrations generate lowest acoustic radiations. Thus, the present study illustrates that the dual wavelength leading edge serrations act as the best passively modified serration profiles for achieving the highest noise reductions over a wide range of frequencies as compared to single and triple wavelength ones.
Analysis of influencing parameters in ion thruster plume simulation
Authors: Zhang Baiyi , Cai Guobiao , Zheng Hongru , He Bijiao , Weng Huiyan
Published: October 2020

Effects from ion thruster plume have long raised concerns. However, little work has systematically analyzed the influencing parameters in the ion thruster plume simulation. This paper analyzes LIPS 200 ion thruster plume simulations about the influencing parameters. The numerical simulations are carried out by a hybrid particle-in-cell (PIC) method and the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. The PIC method is employed for the plasma dynamics, and the DSMC method is used for collisions. Simulation results were compared in detail to obtain the variation of the results with the parameters. Besides, experimental data were compared to simulation results to optimize the parameters. Finally, with these researches, the optimal parameters are obtained.
Compressible large eddy simulation of the unsteady evolution process in a LPT Cascade with incoming wakes
Authors: Wang Yunfei , Chen Huanlong , Liu Huaping , Song Yanping , Chen Fu
Published: October 2020

An in-house large eddy simulation (LES) code based on three-dimensional compressible N-S equations is used to research the impact of incoming wakes on unsteady evolution characteristic in a low-pressure turbine (LPT) cascade. The Mach number is 0.4 and Reynolds number is 0.6 × 105 (based on the axial chord and outlet velocity). The reduced frequency of incoming wakes is Fred = 0 (without wakes), 0.37 and 0.74. A detailed analysis of Reynolds stresses and turbulent kinetic energy inside the boundary layer has been carried out. Particular consideration is devoted to the transport process of incoming wakes and the intermittent property of the unsteady boundary layer. With the increase of reduced frequency, the inhibiting effect of wakes on boundary layer separation gradually enhances. The separation at the rear part of the suction side is weakened and the separation point moves downstream. However, incoming wakes lead to an increase in dissipation and aerodynamic losses in the main flow area. Excessive reduced frequency ( Fred = 0.74) causes the main flow area to become one of the main source areas of loss. An optimal reduced frequency exists to minimize the aerodynamic loss of the linear cascade.
Shock train control by boundary layer suction in a scramjet isolator
Authors: Petha Sethuraman Vignesh Ram , Kim Tae Ho , Kim Heuy Dong
Published: October 2020

The isolator plays a critical role in the scramjet engine situated between the inlet and the combustion chamber. The flow field is more complex with shock–shock interaction and shock boundary layer interaction result in a series of compression waves reffered to as “shock train”. The presence of such flow inside the isolator can degrade the performance of the scramjet engine. The present study focus on the characteristic of the shock train flow field in an isolator and its control by partial removal of the boundary layer. The results examine the variation of the inlet to outlet pressure ratio along with different suction flow ratio. Numerical results indicate that boundary layer suction will cause the slight downstream movement of shock train location and the length of the shock train is reduced. Also when the suction flow gets choked, the transformation of shock train into a single curved normal shock is observed. The effect of varying the upstream boundary layer plays a major role in the suction flow ratio. Furthermore, a significant improvement in the total pressure loss and static pressure rise is obtained by boundary layer suction. The location of the shock train has a greater impact on the performance of the isolator.
Structure and aerodynamic characteristics of a coaxial quad-wing flapper
Authors: Shen Huan , Li Qian , Hu Kun , Feng Zhuoqun , Ji Aihong
Published: October 2020

As a special type of micro ornithopter, the coaxial quad-wing flapper (CQWF) enables greater flight speed and higher stability than the paired-wing flapper. These characteristics are closely related to the unique pneumatic mechanism of the CQWF. Therefore, the aerodynamic generation mechanism of the CQWFs has been actively researched in recent years. This study verifies the reliability of flow-field simulations in a CQWF prototype with an aerodynamically optimized driving mechanism. For the selected motion parameters and shape dimensions of the flapping-wing aircraft, the vorticity fields at different elevation angles are observed in flow-field simulations. The elevation angle strongly affects the lift. Moreover, the wing movement based on the Clap–Fling mechanism significantly affected the acquisition of the lift, which explains the higher stability of the CQWF than that of the paired-wing flapper and provides a theoretical basis for the optimization of the flapping prototype. When tested on a wind-tunnel platform, the prototype yields slightly higher lift compared with those obtained in the simulation study. In addition to confirming the phenomenon revealed in flow visualization, it also showed that the unsteady mechanism of the two-pair wing is more powerful than calculated.
Numerical study on aerodynamic performance of waverider with a new bluntness method
Authors: Qu Zhipeng , Xiao Houdi , Lv Mingyun , Li Guangli , Kai Cui
Published: October 2020

Abastrct

The waverider is deemed the most promising configuration for hypersonic vehicle with its high lift-to-drag ratio at design conditions. However, considering the serious aero-heating protection, the sharp leading edge must be blunted. The existing traditional bluntness methods including the following two types: “reducing material method” and “adding material method”. Compared to the initial waverider, the volume will be smaller or larger using the traditional methods. With the fixed blunted radius, the volume and aerodynamic performance is determined. In this paper, a new bluntness method which is named “mixing material method” is developed. In this new method, a new parameter is introduced based on the traditional two bluntness methods. Under fixed blunted radius, the volume and aerodynamic performance can be changed within a wide range by adjusting the parameter. When the parameter is 0 and 1, the novel blunted method degenerated into the “reducing material method” and “adding material method” respectively. The influence of new parameter on the aerodynamic characteristics and volume are studied by numerical simulation. Results show that the volume, lift and lift-to-drag ratio increases with the increase of the parameter under the fixed blunt radius, but simultaneously, the drag will also increase. Therefore, considering the different requirements of the air-breathing hypersonic aircrafts for the balance of thrust and drag, lift and weight, a suitable bluntness parameter can be selected to achieve a balance. This research can provide reference for hypersonic waverider vehicle design.
Safeguarding outcomes of 16 and 17-year-old service users of Sexual Health London (SHL.uk), a pan-London online sexual health service
Authors: Day Sara , Kinsella Ryan , Jones Sophie , Tittle Victoria , Suchak Tara , Forbes Kimberley
Published: October 2020

Guidance around how to safeguard young people using online sexual health services (e-SHSs) is limited. Sexual Health London (SHL.uk) is an e-SHS, integrated with London’s sexual health clinics (SHCs), offering users aged 16 years and above sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. For a safeguarding risk assessment, under 18s must complete a safeguarding e-triage, and any concern raised results in a ‘call back’ (CB) by the SHL.uk team. The safeguarding outcomes of CBs between 8 January 2018 and 18 September 2018 were reviewed; 261/454 (57.5%) users never triggered a CB on their e-triage (non-CB group) and 193/454 (42.5%) users triggered one or more CB(s) (CB group). Safeguarding concerns disclosed predominantly related to drug/alcohol use and partner's age imbalance. Successful telephonic risk assessment took place in 84.5% CB cases. Safeguarding outcomes comprised referrals to: SHC in 35.5%; child protection team in 8.5%; social services in 7%. STI positivity was 16.4% and 15.2% in the CB and non-CB groups, respectively. Although a high number of safeguarding triggers were disclosed, only a small proportion warranted referral for further support/intervention. Using e-triage with telephony support to screen and safeguard adolescents accessing an e-SHS was acceptable to users and enabled their clinical and safeguarding needs to be safely met. e-SHS integration within a network of SHCs further supported this model.
16th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies Task Force Report on Antiphospholipid Syndrome Treatment Trends
Authors: Cohen Hannah , Cuadrado Maria J , Erkan Doruk , Duarte-Garcia Ali , Isenberg David A , Knight Jason S , Ortel Thomas L , Rahman Anisur , Salmon Jane E , Tektonidou Maria G , Williams David J , Willis Rohan , Woller Scott C , Andrade Danieli
Published: October 2020

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), an acquired autoimmune thrombophilia, is characterised by thrombosis and/or pregnancy morbidity in association with persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. The 16th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies Task Force on APS Treatment Trends reviewed the current status with regard to existing and novel treatment trends for APS, which is the focus of this Task Force report. The report addresses current treatments and developments since the last report, on the use of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with APS, antiplatelet agents, adjunctive therapies (hydroxychloroquine, statins and vitamin D), targeted treatment including rituximab, belimumab, and anti-TNF agents, complement inhibition and drugs based on peptides of beta-2-glycoprotein I. In addition, the report summarises potential new players, including coenzyme Q10, adenosine receptor agonists and adenosine potentiation. In each case, the report provides recommendations for clinicians, based on the current state of the art, and suggests a clinical research agenda. The initiation and development of appropriate clinical studies requires a focus on devising suitable outcome measures, including a disease activity index, an optimal damage index, and a specific quality of life index.
Investigation of Clinical Safety of Human iPS Cell-Derived Liver Organoid Transplantation to Infantile Patients in Porcine Model
Authors: Tsuchida Tomonori , Murata Soichiro , Hasegawa Shunsuke , Mikami Satoshi , Enosawa Shin , Hsu Huai-Che , Fukuda Akinari , Okamoto Satoshi , Mori Akihiro , Matsuo Megumi , Kawakatsu Yumi , Matsunari Hitomi , Nakano Kazuaki , Nagashima Hiroshi , Taniguchi Hideki
Published: October 2020

Transplantation of liver organoids has been investigated as a treatment alternative to liver transplantation for chronic liver disease. Transportal approach can be considered as a method of delivering organoids to the liver. It is important to set the allowable organoid amount and verify translocation by intraportal transplantation. We first examined the transplantation tolerance and translocation of porcine fetal liver-derived allogeneic organoids using piglets. Fetal liver-derived organoids generated from the Kusabira Orange-transduced pig were transplanted to the 10-day-old piglet liver through the left branch of the portal vein. All recipients survived without any observable adverse events. In contrast, both local and main portal pressures increased transiently during transplantation. In necropsy samples, Kusabira Orange-positive donor cells were detected primarily in the target lobe of the liver and partly in other areas, including the lungs and brain. As we confirmed the transplantation allowance by porcine fetal liver-derived organoids, we performed intraportal transplantation of human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived liver organoid, which we plan to use in clinical trials, and portal pressure and translocation were investigated. Human iPSC-derived liver organoids were transplanted into the same 10-day-old piglet. Portal hypertension and translocation of human iPSC-derived liver organoids to the lungs were observed in one of two transplanted animals. Translocation occurred in the piglet in which patent ductus venosus (PDV) was observed. Therefore, a 28-day-old piglet capable of surgically ligating PDV was used, and after the PDV was ligated, human iPSC-derived liver organoids with the amount of which is scheduled in clinical trials were transplanted. This procedure inhibited the translocation of human iPSC-derived liver organoids to extrahepatic sites without no portal hypertension. In conclusion, human iPSC-derived liver organoids can be safely transplanted through the portal vein. Ligation of the ductus venosus prior to transplantation was effective in inhibiting extrahepatic translocation in newborns and infants.
Book review: Monica Chanda, Of Colonial Bungalows & Piano Lessons: Memoirs of an Indian Woman: Monica Chanda
Authors: Som Reba
Published: October 2020

Monica Chanda, Of Colonial Bungalows & Piano Lessons: Memoirs of an Indian Woman: Monica Chanda, edited by Malavika Karlekar. New Delhi: Social Science Press, 2018, 159 pages, ₹750. ISBN: 978-93-83166-28-2.
Book review: Ghazala Jamil, Muslim Women Speak: Of Dreams and Shackles
Authors: Patil Prachi
Published: October 2020

Ghazala Jamil, Muslim Women Speak: Of Dreams and Shackles. New Delhi: SAGE Publications and Yoda Press, 2018, 190 pages (Hardcover), ₹595. ISBN 9789352805006.
A Critical Analysis of Capitalism, Capital Accumulation and Crisis Theory in David Harvey
Authors: Majumder Tanaya
Published: October 2020

This article is a critical review of David Harvey’s essentialist theorisation of a capitalist economy and its crisis from a class focused Marxist perspective. The first part examines Harvey’s immense contribution to the understanding of space and spatiality of capitalism within the Marxist tradition. Capital accumulation in his theorisation serves as the impresario of space and spatiality and the harbinger of capitalist crisis in general. Expanding on a class focused approach, the second part provides a critique of Harvey’s methodology and crisis theory in which the law of capital accumulation reigns supreme. Specifically, using an anti-essentialist methodology of overdetermination with class process of surplus labour as the theoretical entry point, as developed by Resnick and Wolff, I argue that no correspondence of the rate of capital accumulation with those of rate of profit and rate of class distribution can be drawn. This unpredictability renders capitalism inherently unstable, prone to business cycles whose cause cannot be reduced to any chosen causal factor such as the one reducible to capital accumulation.

JEL Codes: P12, P16
Parvovirus-induced encephalitis in a juvenile raccoon
Authors: Wünschmann Arno , Lopez-Astacio Robert , Armién Aníbal G. , Reed Leslie , Parrish Colin R.
Published: October 2020

A juvenile raccoon was euthanized because of severe neurologic signs. At postmortem examination, no significant gross lesions were present. Histologic evaluation demonstrated nonsuppurative encephalitis in thalamus, brainstem, and hippocampus, cerebellar Purkinje cell loss, as well as poliomyelitis and demyelination of the spinal cord. Parvovirus antigen–specific immunohistochemistry revealed immunopositive neurons in the brainstem, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus. A few Purkinje cells were also immunopositive. DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded brain tissue (thalamus, hippocampus, cerebral cortex) yielded a positive signal using PCR targeting both feline and canine parvovirus. Sequencing analyses from a fragment of the NS1 gene and a portion of the VP2 gene confirmed the presence of DNA of a recent canine parvovirus variant (CPV-2a–like virus) in the cerebellum. Our case provides evidence that a recent canine parvovirus (CPV) strain ( Carnivore protoparvovirus 1) can infect cerebral and diencephalic neurons and cause encephalitis in an otherwise healthy raccoon. Parvovirus-induced encephalitis is a differential diagnosis of rabies and canine distemper in raccoons with neurologic signs.
A Phenomenological Study on New Care Needs of Maslow’s Need-Hierarchy Among Disabled Residents at Nursing Homes in Modern Chinese Society
Authors: Shen Jun , Xiao Lily Dongxia , Liu Yue , Zhang Hong , Wu Lin
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Meeting the care needs of disabled residents of nursing homes is a vital element to providing high-quality care in modern society. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the disabled residents’ new care needs in nursing homes based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory from their perspectives in modern society.

Method:

This was a qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 23 disabled residents in a nursing home in China. All data were transcribed and coded for emerging themes.

Results:

A qualitative data analysis generated 4 dimensions and 12 aspects of needs: intelligent technology (including intelligent health management, intelligent life care, and intelligent psychological care), security (including air and food safety, network security, and protecting privacy), participation (including social relations, self-regulated learning, and volunteer service), and spirituality (including religious beliefs needs, maintaining dignity, and self-determination).

Discussion:

These findings can inform nursing home health care professionals about the new care needs of disabled residents to improve nursing home care protocols to accommodate residents’ expressed needs, thus fostering better care.
“Having a Baby Can Wait”: Experiences of a Sexual and Reproductive Health Promotion Program in the Context of Homelessness among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Other Pacific Islander Youth Captured Through PhotoVoice
Authors: Aparicio Elizabeth M. , Kachingwe Olivia N. , Phillips Danielle R. , Jasczynski Michelle , Cabral M. Kaleipumehana , Aden Faduma , Parekh Eshana , Espero Jason , Childers Christine
Published: October 2020

Nearly half of female youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) become pregnant due to myriad individual, family, community, and structural factors. In response, our team developed and tested Wahine (“woman”) Talk, a multilevel, trauma-informed sexual and reproductive health intervention created with and for female YEH aged 14 to 22. After Wahine Talk, youth were invited to participate in a participatory action PhotoVoice project regarding experiences of the program, waiting to start or expand their families, and homelessness. Photographs were taken and captioned by youth, and then further examined through Thematic Analysis. Final project themes include (a) Youth-Driven Birth Timing Decisions; (b) A Sense of Place: Finding Safe Spaces; and (c) Glimpsing Hope. Because YEH live under society’s radar, it is critical to understand their experiences from their own perspectives to improve interventions at multiple levels. Implications for meeting the needs of YEH in the areas of reproductive justice, financial stability, and affordable housing are discussed.
Character Through Outdoor Adventure Education? The (Delimiting) Hope of Modern Virtue Ethics
Authors: Stonehouse Paul
Published: October 2020

Background: The long-held assumption of character development through outdoor adventure education (OAE) maintains some adherents; however, growing criticism calls into question its efficacy. Yet, current social/environmental crises signal the immediate importance of moral education. Purpose: This article highlights the importance of character in moral assessment and guidance and registers the need for an account of character relevant to OAE’s social/environmental aims. It suggests a modern virtue ethical lens as a philosophical and practical way forward for OAE’s moral educational mission. Methodology/Approach: This article searches the OAE literature for substantiating evidence (rational and empirical). Then, in light of this search, a virtue ethical account of character, including its development, and relevance to OAE, is outlined. Findings/Conclusions: Evidence for character development through OAE is nearly non-existent, and semantic, philosophical, and empirical critiques loom large. If OAE wishes to continue its moral mission, then an account of character—promisingly provided in virtue ethical theory(s)—that can withstand these critiques is needed. Implications: Applied to OAE, modern virtue ethical theory provides an account of character, copes with the critiques, and supplies socially/environmentally relevant curricular and pedagogical guidance for future practice, while likely delimiting our claim to character development.
The Conflicting Impact of COVID-19’s Health and Economic Crises on Helping
Authors: Shoss Mindy K. , Horan Kristin A. , DiStaso Michael , LeNoble Chelsea A. , Naranjo Anthony
Published: October 2020

Helping behaviors are considered critical for business and societal recovery in light of economic crises and natural disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic that has both economic and health disaster elements. However, because the current COVID-19 pandemic has both of these elements, it is unclear how helping may be impacted. Economic crisis research suggests that such events are associated with less helping, whereas disaster research suggests that such events are associated with greater helping. We pair the event system theory (Morgeson, F. P., Mitchell, T. R., & Liu, D. (2015). Event system theory: An event-oriented approach to the organizational sciences. Academy of Management Review, 40(4), 515-537) with these two logics (economic downturn and disaster) to suggest that health and economic threats within the COVID-19 pandemic operate with potentially opposing forces on helping-related outcomes. To test these ideas at a macro-level, we examined internet search volume for recession, COVID-19, and interest in helping. At a micro-level, we examined the relationships between work- hour insecurity and perceived job-related COVID-19 risk—two salient COVID-19-related economic and health threats—and helping customers and coworkers. Consistent with economic crisis logic, macro-level concern about recession was negatively associated with interest in helping. Moreover, at the individual level, work-hour insecurity negatively predicted helping coworkers. Consistent with disaster logic, at the individual level, perceived job-related COVID-19 threat was positively associated with helping coworkers and negatively associated with helping customers. These findings suggest that the specific feature of the COVID-19 event system (economic versus health) and the target (organizational insiders versus outsiders) matter for shaping helping behavior. These findings have implications for helping during crises that involve economic and/or disaster elements.