bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Topical Compound Danxiong Granules for Treatment of Dermatologic Toxicities Induced by Targeted Anticancer Therapy: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Tian Aiping , Zhou Aiping , Bi Xinyu , Hu Shangying , Jiang Zhichao , Zhang Wen , Huang Zhen , Shi Hongzhe , Yang Boyan , Chen Wei
Published: August 2017

Dermatologic toxicities resulting in dose reduction or discontinuation of treatment pose challenges for targeted anticancer therapies. We conducted this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial to investigate the efficacy of topical application of Compound Danxiong Granules (CDG) for treatment of dermatologic toxicities associated with targeted anticancer therapies. One hundred and ten patients with dermatologic toxicities induced by targeted anticancer therapies were randomly assigned to CDG or placebo group. Each crude herb (Rhizoma Chuanxiong, Paeonia suffruticosa Andr., Cortex Phellodendri, Geranium sibiricum L., and Flos Carthami) was prepared as an instant herbal powder. Application of the CDG via topical washes lasted 20 minutes, twice daily, for 10 days. The primary outcome was the total effective rate, defined as reduction in at least one grade of skin toxicity. The total effective rate was 77.61% (52/67) in the CDG group and 27.27% (9/33) in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). Compared to the placebo treatment, CDG treatment achieved a higher total effective rate for hand‐foot skin reaction (95.45% versus 27.27%), acneiform eruption (69.23% versus 30.78%), and paronychia (68.42% versus 22.22%). Topical application of CDG can effectively attenuate dermatologic toxicities induced by targeted anticancer therapies. The effect of CDG was more pronounced in hand‐foot skin reaction.
Separation Process of Fine Coals by Ultrasonic Vibration Gas-Solid Fluidized Bed
Authors: Wang Shuai , He Yaqun , Wei Hua , Xie Weining
Published: August 2017

Ultrasonic vibration gas-solid fluidized bed was proposed and introduced to separate fine coals (0.5–0.125 mm fraction). Several technological methods such as XRF, XRD, XPS, and EPMA were used to study the composition of heavy products to evaluate the separation effect. Results show that the ultrasonic vibration force field strengthens the particle separation process based on density when the vibration frequency is 35 kHz and the fluidization number is 1.8. The ash difference between the light and heavy products and the recovery of combustible material obtain the maximum values of 47.30% and 89.59%, respectively. The sulfur content of the heavy product reaches the maximum value of 6.78%. Chemical state analysis of sulfur shows that organic sulfur (-C-S-), sulfate-sulfur (-SO4), and pyrite-sulfur (-S2) are confirmed in the original coal and heavy product. Organic sulfur (-C-S-) is mainly concentrated in the light product, and pyrite-sulfur (-S2) is significantly enriched in the heavy product. The element composition, phase composition, backscatter imagery, and surface distribution of elements for heavy product show concentration of high-density minerals including pyrite, quartz, and kaolinite. Some harmful elements such as F, Pb, and As are also concentrated in the heavy product.
Comparative Analysis of Fuzzy Logic and PI Controller Based Electronic Load Controller for Self-Excited Induction Generator
Authors: Mishra Eshani , Tiwari Sachin
Published: August 2017

Rural areas suffer from limited grid connectivity. Small hydroplants can provide electricity at a cheap cost with low environmental impact in these regions. Self-excited induction generators are widely used in hydroplants since they operate on a standalone basis because of the connection of capacitor bank that provides reactive power at no load. However, SEIGs suffer from poor voltage and frequency regulation. Thus, an electronic load controller (ELC) is connected across SEIG to regulate voltage and frequency. Generally, the control scheme for an ELC circuit is based on the conventional proportional integral control, which is easy to implement and performs well under linear load conditions. However, PI controllers handle nonlinearity poorly. This paper presents a fuzzy logic control (FLC) based control scheme for ELC in a constant power generation system (SEIG). The control scheme is designed and simulated in MATLAB under both linear and nonlinear load conditions. A comparison of both the controllers is conducted which highlights the superiority of the fuzzy logic control scheme.
Targeting Cancer Stem Cells and Their Niche: Current Therapeutic Implications and Challenges in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhao Jiangang , Li Jiahui , Schlößer Hans A. , Popp Felix , Popp Marie Christine , Alakus Hakan , Jauch Karl-Walter , Bruns Christiane J. , Zhao Yue
Published: August 2017

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified as a subpopulation of stem-like cancer cells with the ability of self-renewal and differentiation in hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers worldwide. CSCs are thought to be responsible for cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, chemoresistance, and recurrence in pancreatic cancer. In this review, we summarize the characteristics of pancreatic CSCs and discuss the mechanisms involved in resistance to chemotherapy, the interactions with the niche, and the potential role in cancer immunoediting. We propose that immunotherapy targeting pancreatic CSCs, in combination with targeting the niche components, may provide a novel treatment strategy to eradicate pancreatic CSCs and hence improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer.
A Survey on Infrastructure-Based Vehicular Networks
Authors: Silva Cristiano M. , Masini Barbara M. , Ferrari Gianluigi , Thibault Ilaria
Published: August 2017

The infrastructure of vehicular networks plays a major role in realizing the full potential of vehicular communications. More and more vehicles are connected to the Internet and to each other, driving new technological transformations in a multidisciplinary way. Researchers in automotive/telecom industries and academia are joining their effort to provide their visions and solutions to increasingly complex transportation systems, also envisioning a myriad of applications to improve the driving experience and the mobility. These trends pose significant challenges to the communication systems: low latency, higher throughput, and increased reliability have to be granted by the wireless access technologies and by a suitable (possibly dedicated) infrastructure. This paper presents an in-depth survey of more than ten years of research on infrastructures, wireless access technologies and techniques, and deployment that make vehicular connectivity available. In addition, we identify the limitations of present technologies and infrastructures and the challenges associated with such infrastructure-based vehicular communications, also highlighting potential solutions.
Measurement of Pozzolanic Activity Index of Scoria, Pumice, and Rice Husk Ash as Potential Supplementary Cementitious Materials for Portland Cement
Authors: Mboya Hieronimi A. , King’ondu Cecil K. , Njau Karoli N. , Mrema Alex L.
Published: August 2017

This work investigated the properties of scoria and pumice as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) for Portland cement and compared to those of rice husk ash (RHA). X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, and pozzolanic activity index (PAI) tests confirmed the suitability of these two materials as potential SCMs. Scoria and RHA samples achieved over 75% PAI at 7 days whereas pumice did this after 28 days. Initial and final mean setting times observed for the composite cement blended with these materials were 166 and 285 min, respectively. These setting times are longer than that of ordinary Portland cement but shorter compared to that of common Portland pozzolana cement. The ultimate mean compressive strengths achieved at 28 days of curing were 42.5, 44.8, and 43.0 MPa for scoria, pumice, and RHA, respectively, signifying that these materials are good SCMs. Higher fineness yielded higher ultimate mean strength. For instance, a scoria sample with a fineness of 575 m2/kg achieved the strength of 52.2 MPa after 28 days.
Elucidation of Molecular Mechanisms of Streptozotocin‐Induced Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Rin‐5F Pancreatic β‐Cells
Authors: Nahdi Arwa M. T. Al , John Annie , Raza Haider
Published: August 2017

Streptozotocin is a pancreatic beta‐cell‐specific cytotoxin and is widely used to induce experimental type 1 diabetes in rodent models. The precise molecular mechanism of STZ cytotoxicity is however not clear. Studies have suggested that STZ is preferably absorbed by insulin‐secreting β‐cells and induces cytotoxicity by producing reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). In the present study, we have investigated the mechanism of cytotoxicity of STZ in insulin‐secreting pancreatic cancer cells (Rin‐5F) at different doses and time intervals. Cell viability, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial bioenergetics were studied. Our results showed that STZ induces alterations in glutathione homeostasis and inhibited the activities of the respiratory enzymes, resulting in inhibition of ATP synthesis. Apoptosis was observed in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Western blot analysis has also confirmed altered expression of oxidative stress markers (e.g., NOS and Nrf2), cell signaling kinases, apoptotic protein‐like caspase‐3, PARP, and mitochondrial specific proteins. These results suggest that STZ‐induced cytotoxicity in pancreatic cells is mediated by an increase in oxidative stress, alterations in cellular metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study may be significant in better understanding the mechanism of STZ‐induced β‐cell toxicity/resistance and the etiology of type 1 diabetes induction.
Phenotypic Variation Profile of Marsilea crenata Presl. Cultivated in Water and in the Soil
Authors: Agil Mangestuti , Kusumawati Idha , Purwitasari Neny
Published: August 2017

The aim of this research was to investigate possible phenotypic variation profile of Marsilea crenata Presl. cultivated in water and in the soil, to find alternative cultivation techniques to fulfill the increasing demand for pollutant-free plants. Phenotypic profile was investigated through macroscopic and microscopic examinations of all plant parts, and phytochemical screening on the ethanol extract of the leaves using thin layer chromatography technique was conducted to detect the terpenoid constituents. Results showed a variation of phenotypic profiles in the macroscopic examination caused by different cultivation methods. Phytochemical screening showed spots of terpenoid compounds with different color intensity. No differences were found in the microscopic examination of the leaves, petioles, and stems. Since major profile changes did not occur, M. crenata is recommended to be cultivated in water as its original habitat by providing a better caring and quality of water. Due to its phytoremediation property, it is necessary to grow M. crenata in pollutant-free water.
Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma with Unusual Cardiac Metastasis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tiwari Abhinav , Bangalore Bhavana Siddegowda , Sharma Himani , Ammari Zaid , Khan Mohammad S. , Khan Zubair , Simo Hermann
Published: August 2017

Alveolar soft part sarcoma is a very uncommon soft tissue malignancy which accounts for <1% of soft tissue sarcoma. It is a malignant and highly vascular tumor arising most commonly in the musculature of the lower extremities, with metastasis primarily to the lungs, bones, and brain. Cardiac metastasis is very rare and only 5 cases have been reported in the literature so far. We report a case of a young woman with a history of surgically resected alveolar soft part sarcoma of left thigh who presented with persistent dry cough and was found to have a cardiac mass, which on biopsy proved to be alveolar soft part sarcoma.
Experimental Study on Ultrahigh Strength Concrete Filled Steel Tube Short Columns under Axial Load
Authors: Zhou Xiaojun , Mou Tingmin , Tang Hongyuan , Fan Bikun
Published: August 2017

Based on the project of Modaoxi Bridge, an experimental study on the compressive behavior of ultrahigh strength concrete filled steel tube (UHSCFST) short column was conducted. A total of 9 UHSCFST specimens were tested, and the cube strength (fcu) of the core concrete reached 115.4 MPa. Main parameters were the confining factor (ξ=0.608, 0.919, and 1.015), steel ratio (α=14.67%, 20.02%, and 21.98%), and steel strength (fy = 349 MPa, 352 MPa, and 427 MPa). The axially loading test results showed that the visible damage of steel tube occurred under the ultimate load. The higher the confining effect, the less the damage features. And all specimens basically presented a drum-type failure mode. The confining effect of steel tube effectively changed the brittle failure mode of ultrahigh strength concrete (UHSC) and tremendously improved the load bearing capacity and ductility of specimens. Moreover, the higher the steel ratio and steel strength of the specimens, the stronger the confining effect. Meanwhile the excellent mechanical properties will be obtained. Also it is recommended that the UHSCFST prefers Q345 or above strength steel tube to ensure sufficient ductility, and the steel ratio should be more than 20%. Furthermore, the confining effect of steel tubes can improve the ultimate bearing capacity of the ultrahigh strength CFST short columns.
Effect of Bolt-Hole Clearance on Bolted Connection Behavior for Pultruded Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Structural Plastic Members
Authors: Woo Sang-Pyuk , Kim Sun-Hee , Yoon Soon-Jong , Choi Wonchang
Published: August 2017

Bolt-hole clearance affects the failure mode on the bolted connection system of pultruded fiber-reinforced polymer plastic (PFRP) members. The various geometric parameters, such as the shape and cross-sectional area of the structural members, commonly reported in many references were used to validate the bolt-hole clearance. This study investigates the effects of the bolt-hole clearance in single-bolt connections of PFRP structural members. Single-bolt connection tests were planned using different bolt-hole clearances (e.g., tight-fit and clearances of 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm with 0.5 mm intervals) and uniaxial tension is applied on the test specimens. Most of the specimens failed in two sequential failure modes: bearing failure occurred and the shear-out failure followed. Test results on the bolt-hole clearances are compared with results in the previous research.
Histologic and Histomorphometric Comparison between Sintered Nanohydroxyapatite and Anorganic Bovine Xenograft in Maxillary Sinus Grafting: A Split-Mouth Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Lombardi Teresa , Oreglia Francesco , Alberghini Maltoni Andrea , Traini Tonino
Published: August 2017

The presence of vital bone after maxillary sinus augmentation is crucial to enhance the quality of bone-implant interface, ensuring predictable long-term results. The aims of this RCT with split-mouth design were the histologic and histomorphometric comparison of two different biomaterials in sinus elevation after 6 months of healing and the evaluation of the clinical outcomes of implants inserted in the augmented areas after 12 months of prosthetic loading. Twenty-eight patients (10 females, 18 males) were treated with bilateral sinus floor elevation with lateral approach. Pure sintered nanohydroxyapatite (NHA) and anorganic bovine bone (ABB) were used as test and active control, respectively. After six months, 52 bone biopsies were harvested from 26 patients, and 107 implants were inserted in the augmented areas. Histomorphometry showed that, in the two groups, vital bone percentages were 34.9±15% (NHA) and 38.5±17% (ABB) (p=0.428), marrow spaces percentages were 44.5±18% (NHA) and 43.5±23% (ABB) (p=0.866), and residual graft percentages were 20.6±13% (NHA) and 22.3±12% (ABB) (p=0.638). After 6 months of healing, no statistically significant difference was present in histomorphometric outcomes between NHA and ABB groups. Implant survival rate in NHA group after 12 months of loading was 96.4%, showing no statistically significant differences with ABB group.
Overweight or Obesity, Gender, and Age Influence on High School Students of the City of Toluca’s Physical Fitness
Authors: Cruz Estrada Flor de Maria , Tlatempa Sotelo Patricia , Valdes-Ramos Roxana , Hernández Murúa José Aldo , Manjarrez-Montes-de-Oca Rafael
Published: August 2017

Material and Method. This is a prospective, cross-sectional, and correlational study with a probabilistic sampling in which 150 teenagers from three different high schools from the city of Toluca, Mexico, aged 15–17, were assessed. Objective. To determine if weight, age, and gender have an influence on physical fitness evaluated with the EUROFIT and ALPHA-FITNESS batteries. Results. Women have a higher overweight and obesity rate than men (3 : 1). Adolescents who have normal weight have regular physical fitness (74.9%). When comparing genders we found that men have a higher mean than women in the tests, except for skinfold thickness and waist circumference. Age was only correlated with the plate tapping test (p=0.001). There are significant differences in the standing broad jump test and the Course-Navette of the EUROFIT and ALPHA-FITNESS batteries (p=0.000). Conclusions. It is likely that regular physical activity, and not normal weight, helps generate healthy physical fitness. Male subjects had a higher mean than women, reporting a better physical fitness and more frequent physical activity.
Soluble CD14 as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Hematological Patients with Febrile Neutropenia
Authors: Korpelainen Sini , Intke Carina , Hämäläinen Sari , Jantunen Esa , Juutilainen Auni , Pulkki Kari
Published: August 2017

Objective. Elevated levels of a cell surface glycoprotein, soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), have been observed in patients with sepsis. Only scarce data are available on sCD14 in hematological patients with chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia. The study aim was to investigate sCD14 as an early biomarker in febrile neutropenia after intensive chemotherapy to detect a rapidly deteriorating clinical course early enough to avoid serious infectious complications.Patients and Methods. This prospective study included 87 adult hematological patients at the start of febrile neutropenia after intensive chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia or after autologous stem cell transplantation. The study endpoints were septic shock, severe sepsis, and positive blood culture findings. sCD14 was analyzed from day 0 to day 2, and its prognostic capacity was compared to that of C-reactive protein and procalcitonin.Results. Plasma level of sCD14 predicted the development of septic shock on day 1 (p=0.001) and day 2 but not the development of severe sepsis or blood culture positivity in hematological patients with chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia.Conclusions. Soluble CD14 did not predict an overall complicated course at the early stages of febrile neutropenia. However, it was helpful in predicting the progression of the clinical course of neutropenic fever to septic shock.
‘Artful communicators’ at the Tobar an Cheoil: Traditional Irish music and the transmission of Irish cultural identity
Authors: Van Tuyll Debra Reddin , Purdy Carl
Published: August 2017

Culture and cultural identity are formed, transmitted, and maintained when meaning is created and shared. Music is as capable of creating shared meaning as are verbal and visual communications. This study sought to use participant/observation and interviewing methodologies to explore the role of the session in creating an environment where traditional Irish music is free to transmit cultural values, beliefs and attitudes through their music as well as through fellowship and conversation. They found that both musicians and audience members believe music is a powerful cultural force in Ireland and that it will continue to be.
Mauerpark: Berlin’s gentrifying scene park
Authors: Sark Katrina
Published: August 2017

Mauerpark (Karsten, 2011) is a documentary film shot in Berlin’s most notorious park in Prenzlauer Berg in the summer of 2009. It portrays diverse protagonists – artists, musicians, activists, performers and visitors – who frequent the park and participate in its array of activities, such as mass karaoke, flea market, outdoor basketball and other recreational sports, performances, arts, music, etc. Through their narratives, the park is presented as the last public space in Prenzlauer Berg that has not yet been completely gentrified and allows for sub- and countercultural, unregulated creativity and leisure. This article examines Karsten’s film and the gentrifying landscape of the New Berlin.
A ‘horizon of important questions’: Choice, action and identity in David Mitchell’s Cloud Atlas
Authors: Brown Kevin
Published: August 2017

Though David Mitchell’s novel Cloud Atlas was only published in 2004, critics are already beginning to write articles and book chapters about his novel. Thus far, though, no one has examined the novel’s portrayal of identity or authenticity as defined by individual choice and action, though this idea undergirds the entire novel. When most people talk about choice and identity, they refer to Jean-Paul’s Sartre’s view of Existentialism. Sartre’s philosophy works well when examining Mitchell’s novel, but using other ideas from Charles Taylor, a more contemporary philosopher, deepens how one reads the ideas about choice, action and identity that Mitchell’s novel examines. These six seemingly separate stories explore these ideas of choice, responsibility and identity, as each of the major characters struggles to discover who he or she is and how he or she should live in the various worlds they find themselves in. Looking at the novel through Sartrean Existentialism, along with Charles Taylor’s ideas about identity, we can see the major characters in Cloud Atlas all finally make choices that define who they are, choices that provide an identity that carries on beyond their own lives and stories.
Book Review
Authors: van Leeuwen Evert Jan
Published: August 2017

THE EURO-WESTERN: REFRAMING GENDER RACE AND THE ‘OTHER’ IN FILM, LEE BROUGHTON (2016) London and New York: I.B. Tauris, 304 pp., ISBN: 9781784533892, h/bk, 62/$99; eISBN: 978 0857729408
Synthesis of locust bean gum-based terpolymer bentonite composite: evaluation for indigo carmine adsorption
Authors: Badalamoole Vishalakshi , Abubakar Zauro Sirajo
Published: August 2017

A terpolymer gel compositeis made up of locust bean gum (LBG), diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid (AMPS) and bentonite (BNT) was prepared using methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as crosslinker via microwave irradiation and characterized using FTIR, TGA and SEM techniques. Swelling behavior of the composite was studied under different pH conditions. The composite was also evaluated for adsorption of anionic dye ‘Indigo Carmine’ (IC). The behaviour of the composite was compared with the terpolymer gel without the clay component. The gel showed remarkably higher swelling under neutral pH compared to the composite. The adsorption capacity of the terpolymer gel without clay for Indigo Carmine dyeis also found to be higher (17.36 mg/g) compared to the clay composite (11.99 mg/g). The adsorption data were subjected to three different isotherm models namely; Freundlich, Langmuir and Temkin and were observed to be explained best by Freundlich model. The adsorption of indigo Carmine on the terpolymer gel and the composite is observed to be a second order kinetic process.
Digital photography in orthodontics
Authors: Kumar Shetty B Sharath , Kumar Y Mahesh , Sreekumar Chandrima
Published: August 2017

The buzzword today is digital. Be it music, T.V., video, watch, diary or any appliance. The world is going digital. Film less photography, pictures on a chip, call it what, this is a new phenomenon of technology. It is big, and it is the way things will be from this day forwards. For over 160 years, photography has been based on the silver halide film, which is now being replaced. Digital photography has come about as a result of convergence of both IT and photography. And it has so much to offer us. This article reviews the possibilities of digital photography in orthodontics.
Liver malfunction of wistar rats induced by combination of benzoic and citric acids as food additive
Authors: Abdelgadir Muawia , Hassan Mamood , Idris Salah , Sabahelkhier Murwan , Ali Zeineb , Adris Mohamed , Idris Omer
Published: August 2017

This study was aimed to investigate liver function of Wistar rats influenced by oral ingestion of different doses of combination of benzoic and citric acids as food additives. Administered doses were (100, 500 and 1250 mg/kg b.w). Rats' serum GGT and ALP were used as an indicators. Forty four Wistar rats were divided into four groups’ eleven rats in each group, six males and five females. One group was put as control, and the remainder of the three groups received different doses of combination of benzoic and citric acids. Housing in Meck Ni-mir research center Khartoum. They were recived free tab water and prepared food systems liberally. Serum was taken from each rats and analyzed by spectrophotometer. Transverse sections of liver organs were used to prepare Histopathiological slides. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) gradual increase according to increased treatment doses in serum GGT and alkaline phosphatase were observed in treated animals, compared with control. Also there were different signs of liver histopathological changes including plate hyperaemia, hemorhage, haemosidero-sis,diffuse coagulative necrosis ,cytoplasmic vacuolation and sinusoidal dilatation. Change in nuclei. Compared to control all tested animals showed significant (p ≤ 0.05) inccreased body weight. All animals survived till the end of the experiment. We concluded that oral ingestion of combination of benzoic and citric acid causes liver malfunction, so it is preferred to ingest foods and beverages containing combination of benzoic and citric acid with caution. This study was aimed to investigate rats’ liver malfunction induced by oral ingestion of combination of benzoic with citric acid in ratio (1:1/ v: v).
Women and Men Facing Lexical Innovation
Authors: Cañete Gonzalez Paola
Published: August 2017

Over the last few decades, the gender variable has been investigated in terms of linguistic variation. A number of studies (mainly phonological in nature) have been carried out. These studies have generated preliminary conclusions such as “women are more conservative and use more standard forms of language than men” or that “men are more innovative than women” (Chambers, 2009; Labov, 1994).Generally, we are aware that new words are created every day, which is indicative of the dynamism of languages and the changes taking place in a given society. The study of these new lexical entities, called neologisms, allows us to understand how language speakers can adapt to social changes.The two issues mentioned above are our main motivation to conduct this investigation, which will be based on a linguistic approach with a focus on neology. Hence, this paper focuses on Spanish neological units produced by women and men, as found in contemporary newspaper articles and blogs.
A picture is worth a thousand words: Exploring immersion students’ language learning experiences in Honduras
Authors: Bettney Esther
Published: August 2017

This qualitative study explored the experience of students learning English in an early partial one-way immersion program in Honduras. While the field of immersion research is well-established in various parts of the world, very little research has focused on programs in Central America. It is important to consider this context as models of bilingual education must be adapted to the needs of the local student population (de Mejía, 2002). Students’ viewpoints are important as a link has been established between students’ perceptions and their rates of second-language acquisition (Hamacher, 2007). To address this research gap, written reflections were collected from 203 students in Grades 1 to 11. Through pictures and words, students portrayed their experiences learning English, including the impact of specific instructional practices and their use of English outside of school. These findings are important as they provide insight into students’ learning experiences within an unexplored immersion context.Este estudio cualitativo exploró la experiencia de estudiantes aprendiendo inglés en un programa de inmersión temprana parcial de una vía en Honduras.  Mientras la investigación sobre la inmersión está bien establecida en varias partes del mundo, se ha realizado muy poca investigación en América Central.  Es importante considerar que este contexto como modelos de educación bilingüe debe ser adaptado a las necesidades de la población estudiantil local (de Mejía, 2002).  Los puntos de vista de los estudiantes son importantes, ya que se ha establecido un vínculo entre la percepción de los alumnos y el ritmo de la adquisición de una segunda lengua (Hamacher, 2007).  Para tratar esta laguna de investigación, se recolectaron reflexiones escritas de 203 alumnos entre primer y undécimo grado.  Los estudiantes representaron sus experiencias aprendiendo inglés a través de dibujos y palabras,  incluyendo el impacto de prácticas docentes específicas y su uso fuera de la escuela.  Estos hallazgos son importantes ya que proveen una perspectiva en las experiencias de aprendizaje de los estudiantes en un contexto inexplorado de inmersión.
Equity and access in charter schools: Identifying issues and solutions
Authors: Marshall David T.
Published: August 2017

School choice exists in American public schooling, even where official school choice policy is absent. Parents with means can elect to live in neighborhoods zoned for desirable schools, whereas parents without means are locked out of that opportunity. In their ideal, charter schools have the ability to expand access to desirable schools to families who previously had little choice in their children’s schools. However, issues of equity and access often limit options for the very families who are seeking them. This paper examines four such issues in charter schools—school diversity, access to transportation, application processes, and access to quality teachers as equity and access. The issues are problematized and case studies that have worked towards resolving these issues are examined.
Effects of alprazolam and haloperidol on thyroglobulin, antithyroglobulin, anti thyroid peroxidase and TSH in Rat
Authors: Samadi Afshin , Ansari Mohammad Hassan Khadem , Ulusu Nuriye Nuray
Published: August 2017

Background

A large number of psychotropic drugs can interfere with the thyroid physiology, function and autoimmunity.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of alprazolam and haloperidol on thyroglobulin, antithyroglobulin (aTg), antithyroid peroxidase, and thyroid stimulating hormone levels on rats.

Materials and Methods

First group of adult male Wistar rats was the control, second group received 0.5 mg kg−1 haloperidol in physiological saline and the third group received 0.5 mg kg−1 alprazolam, via gastric gavage once daily for 28 days. Plasma levels of all thyroid function tests were measured with chemiluminescent assay.

Results

We have investigated a decrease in aTg amounts of control group (5.461±0.718) compared with drug treated rats with alprazolam (1.433±0.225) and haloperidol (1.21±0.228). (PaTg=0.00[ALP], PaTg=0.01[HAL]). Although there were not any change in thyroglobulin levels in the haloperidol treated groups (0.9583±0.014) relative to control group (0.975±0.015); but in opposition Tg levels decreased significantly in response to alprazolam (0.36±0.16) compared with the control group (0.975±0.015), p-values are (PTg=0. 001[ALP]), (PTg=0. 021[HAL]).

Conclusion

We found that these two drugs may interfere with the thyroid physiology and metabolism.
Exact Analysis of the Flow and Heat Transfer of the SA-TiO2 Non-Newtonian Nanofluid Between Two Coaxial Cylinders Through a Porous Medium
Authors: Almazmumy Mariam , Ebaid Abdelhalim
Published: August 2017

In this article, the flow and heat transfer of a non-Newtonian nanofluid between two coaxial cylinders through a porous medium has been investigated. The velocity, temperature, and nanoparticles concentration of the present mathematical model are governed by a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The objective of this article is to obtain new exact solutions for the temperature and the nanoparticles concentration and, therefore, compare them with the previous approximate results in the literature. Moreover, the velocity equation has been numerically solved. The effects of the pressure gradient, thermophoresis, third-grade, Brownian motion, and porosity parameters on the included phenomena have been discussed through several tables and plots. It is found that the velocity profile is increased by increasing the pressure gradient parameter, thermophoresis parameter (slightly), third-grade parameter, and Brownian motion parameter (slightly); however, it decreases with an increase in the porosity parameter and viscosity power index. In addition, the temperature and the nanoparticles concentration reduce with the strengthen of the Brownian motion parameter, while they increase by increasing the thermophoresis parameter. Furthermore, the numerical solution and the physical interpretation in the literature for the same problem have been validated with the current exact analysis, where many remarkable differences and errors have been concluded. Therefore, the suggested analysis may be recommended with high trust for similar problems.
Analysis of genetic and clinical characteristics of a Chinese Kallmann syndrome cohort with ANOS1 mutations
Authors: Nie Min , Xu Hongli , Chen Rongrong , Mao Jiangfeng , Wang Xi , Xiong Shuyu , Zheng Junjie , Yu Bingqing , Cui Mingxuan , Ma Wanlu , Huang Qibin , Zhang Hongbing , Wu Xueyan
Published: August 2017

Objective

To analyzeANOS1gene mutations in a large Chinese Kallmann syndrome (KS) cohort and to characterize the clinical presentation of the disease in patients withANOS1mutations.

Patients and methods

Chinese patients with KS, including 187 sporadic and 23 pedigree cases were recruited. Patients’ANOS1gene sequences were analyzed by direct sequencing of PCR-amplified products.In silicoanalysis was used to assess functional relevance of newly identified missense mutations. Patients’ clinical characteristics were analyzed retrospectively.

Result(s)

Fifteen nonsynonymous rareANOS1variants were found in 13 out of 187 sporadic and 8 out of 23 familial IHH probands. Seven novel (C86F, C90Y, C151W, Y379X, c.1062 + 1G > A, Y579L fs 591X, R597X) and eight recurrentANOS1mutations (S38X, R257X, R262X, R423X, R424X, V560I, c.1843-1G > A, p.R631X) were identified. All the novel mutations were predicted to be pathogenic. The prevalence of cryptorchidism was high (38.1%) and occurred in patients with different kind ofANOS1mutations, while the patients with the same mutation did not present with cryptorchidism uniformly.

Conclusion(s)

The prevalence ofANOS1gene mutations is low in sporadic KS patients, but is much higher in familial KS patients. In the present study, we identify seven novelANOS1mutations, including two mutations in the CR domain, which are probably pathogenic. These mutations expand theANOS1mutation spectrum and provide a foundation for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling.
Effects of mitotane on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Reimondo Giuseppe , Puglisi Soraya , Zaggia Barbara , Basile Vittoria , Saba Laura , Perotti Paola , De Francia Silvia , Volante Marco , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Cannavò Salvatore , Terzolo Massimo
Published: August 2017

Objective

Mitotane, a drug used to treat adrenocortical cancer (ACC), inhibits multiple enzymatic steps of adrenocortical steroid biosynthesis, potentially causing adrenal insufficiency. Recent studies in vitro have also documented a direct inhibitory effect of mitotane at the pituitary level. The present study was aimed to assess the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in patients with ACC receiving mitotane.

Design and methods

We prospectively enrolled 16 patients on adjuvant treatment with mitotane after radical surgical resection of ACC, who underwent standard hormone evaluation and h-CRH stimulation. A group of 10 patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) served as controls for the CRH test.

Results

We demonstrated a close correlation between cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) and plasma mitotane levels, and a non-significant trend between mitotane dose and either serum or salivary cortisol in ACC patients. We did not find any correlation between the dose of cortisone acetate and either ACTH or cortisol levels. ACTH levels were significantly higher in patients with PAI than that in patients with ACC, both in baseline conditions (88.99 (11.04–275.00) vs 24.53 (6.16–121.88) pmol/L, P = 0.031) and following CRH (158.40 (34.32–275.00) vs 67.43 (8.8–179.52) pmol/L P = 0.016).

Conclusions

The observation of lower ACTH levels in patients with ACC than that in patients with PAI, both in basal conditions and after CRH stimulation, suggests that mitotane may play an inhibitory effect on ACTH secretion at the pituitary levels. In conclusion, the present study shows that mitotane affects the HPA axis at multiple levels and no single biomarker may be used for the assessment of adrenal insufficiency.
DIAGNOSIS OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Primary empty sella: a comprehensive review
Authors: Chiloiro S , Giampietro A , Bianchi A , Tartaglione T , Capobianco A , Anile C , De Marinis L
Published: August 2017

Primary empty sella (PES) is characterized by the herniation of the subarachnoid space within the sella, which is often associated with variable degrees of flattening of the pituitary gland in patients without previous pituitary pathologies. PES pathogenetic mechanisms are not well known but seem to be due to a sellar diaphragm incompetence, associated to the occurrence of upper sellar or pituitary factors, as intracranial hypertension and change of pituitary volume. As PES represents in a majority of cases, a neuroradiological findings without any clinical implication, the occurrence of endocrine, neurological and opthalmological symptoms, due to the above describes anatomical alteration, which delineates from the so called PES syndrome. Headache, irregular menses, overweight/obesity and visual disturbances compose the typical picture of PES syndrome and can be the manifestation of an intracranial hypertension, often associated with PES. Although hyperprolactinemia and growth hormone deficit represent the most common endocrine abnormalities, PES syndrome is characterized by heterogeneity both in clinical manifestation and hormonal alterations and can sometime reach severe extremes, as occurrence of papilledema, cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea and worsening of visual acuity. Consequently, a multidisciplinary approach, with the integration of endocrine, neurologic and ophthalmologic expertise, is strongly advocated and recommended for a properly diagnosis, management, treatment and follow-up of PES syndrome and all of the related abnormalities.
How Solidarity Influences Political Actors to Manage the Refugee Crisis: the Case of Proactiva Open Arms
Authors: Álvarez-Jiménez Gemma , Padrós-Cuxart Maria
Published: August 2017

Europe is facing the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II, and the Mare Nostrum has become the path that millions of people are using to flee from the armed conflict, especially since the Syrian war began in March 2011. In this sense, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), 1,014,973 people arrived to Greece, Italy and Spain by sea in 2015. Nevertheless, the Mediterranean area has become the scene of not only a humanitarian crisis but also citizens’ solidarity. In this sense, Proactiva Open Arms, an NGO mostly formed by lifeguards, has helped 135,000 people to reach the coast safely, 10,273 of whom sailed in wandering boats. Of these individuals, 475 fell into the water and 9,067 were trapped on the cliffs. Proactiva Open Arms’ work has driven European and Greek authorities to respond to refugees. In this paper, we analyse through this case how solidarity among civil citizens can change political actions and encourage other citizens to act in solidarity, as part of the H2020 European funded research project SOLIDUS.
OLMS: Online Learning Management System for E-Learning
Authors: Ippakayala Vinay Kumar , El-Ocla Hosam
Published: August 2017

In this paper we introduce a learning management system that provides a management system for centralized control of course content. A secure system to record lectures is implemented as a key feature of this application. This feature would be accessed through web camera and mobile recording. These features are mainly designed for e-learning environment. In addition, we integrate a learning management system with a platform for social activities and student assessment analysis is developed. Users Including students, professors, and administrators are able to manage schedules, lectures, assignments, jobs, events, discussions, and research.
Tergiversaciones sobre la batalla de Cachirí y el restablecimiento del régimen virreinal neogranadino (1816)
Authors: Pérez Pinzón Luis Rubén
Published: August 2017

Acontecimientos históricos como la batalla de Cachirí (1816) demuestran que no hay unidad narrativa ni explicativa entre las diferentes generaciones que han estudiado la historia nacional ni entre las clases sociales que promueven discursos acordes a sus imaginarios. El artículo describe cómo han variado las explicaciones entre la historia oficial, la memoria popular y el patrimonio monumental de las élites regionales acerca de la batalla que decidió el triunfo del ejército expedicionario de reconquista. Para ello, son analizados los discursos históricos que caracterizan la versión oficial de lo acontecido, se contrastan con las representaciones históricas regionales y nacionales, así como se destacan los vacíos y anacronismos de esas historias y representaciones desde la memoria popular. Todo lo cual conlleva a identificar las tergiversaciones nacionales que coexisten sobre un mismo hecho (la batalla de Cachirí) y un mismo personaje histórico (Custodio García Rovira) en la Nueva Granada de 1816.
Manifestaciones artísticas y culturales afrocolombianas. Una aproximación al caso de Girardota (Antioquia)
Authors: Larraín González América , Madrid Garcés Pedro José
Published: August 2017

Tomando como punto de partida una etnografía realizada entre 2015 y 2016, este artículo ofrece una descripción de los elementos que componen el escenario de las manifestaciones artísticas y culturales de una comunidad afrodescendiente en el municipio de Girardota, Antioquia. Por este camino, llegamos a la conclusión de que hay un lazo indisociable entre la participación de la comunidad en escenarios políticos y de organización comunitaria, y el  carácter étnico que se atribuye a sus manifestaciones artísticas y culturales. Aquí privilegiamos un enfoque que entiende dichas manifestaciones como un vehículo para acceder a reflexiones históricas, sociales y políticas, exponiendo cómo, tras la Constitución de 1991 y con la implementación del discurso del multiculturalismo en Colombia, la población de ascendencia africana reformula su identidad étnica para establecer un vínculo diferencial con su historia esclava y servil.
El papel del Estado colombiano en la conformación del sector siderúrgico de Boyacá. 1938-1980
Authors: Barreto Bernal Patricia Carolina , Jurado Jurado Juan Carlos
Published: August 2017

En este artículo se expone el papel del Estado colombiano en la conformación del sector siderúrgico del Departamento de Boyacá, entre 1938 y 1980. El intervencionismo del Estado colombiano ha sido un elemento fundamental para la  sustitución de importaciones explicable por las condiciones endógenas y exógenas de la economía nacional durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial (1939-1945). Se parte de la hipótesis de que el Estado es la forma política que ha adoptado el sistema económico capitalista y por tanto el intervencionismo estatal en la economía es característica del proceso de modernización que se experimentó en Colombia entre finales del siglo XIX y principios del siglo XX. Se abordan las políticas y leyes estatales del sector siderúrgico, las instituciones estatales y gremiales que lo desarrollaron, el declive del intervencionismo y el surgimiento de siderúrgicas privadas. Se consultaron fuentes secundarias, prensa nacional, la revista oficial del gremio durante las décadas de 1960 y 1970 y CONPES. Por último, es de resaltar algunos puntos clave que se encuentran fuera del alcance del presente estudio como lo son la interrelación del sector siderúrgico con otros sectores y los flujos de conocimiento y tecnologías nacionales e internacionales que se requerían para el montaje de grandes empresas; ideas vitales para generar nuevos procesos investigativos.
A robust approach based on time variable trigger levels for pump control
Authors: Alvisi Stefano , Franchini Marco
Published: August 2017

An approach for the control of a pumping plant feeding a tank at the inlet of a water distribution system is presented. The approach is aimed at minimizing the energy costs by maximizing pumping during off-peak electricity tariff periods. It is based on trigger levels which are variable during the day according to a prefixed pattern in order to ensure that the water level in the elevated tank is at its minimum and maximum values at the end of the peak and off-peak tariff periods, respectively. The pattern of the trigger levels is defined by solving a multi-objective problem aimed at minimizing the energy costs and the number of pump switches. The approach was applied to a couple of real cases with a single tank. The approach was compared with other methodologies typically used for pump control, i.e. fixed trigger levels (FTLs) and pump scheduling (PS). The results show for the two particular cases that the proposed approach achieves energy costs that are lower than those obtainable by using FTLs, and comparable with those obtainable by using PS. This is based on achieving a similar number of pump switches.
ISU-ISU KRISIS DALAM NOVEL-NOVEL DYSTOPIAN SCIENCE FICTION AMERIKA
Authors: Muallim Muajiz
Published: August 2017

This paper focuses on issues and discourses about the crisis that existed in the dystopian science fiction (dystopian sf) novels. In this case, Hunger Games Trilogy (2008-2010), Maze Runner Trilogy (2009-2011), Divergent Trilogy (2011-2013) are the main object to see how far the text of dystopian sf novels address issues and discourses about the crisis within. Dystopian sf novels that are the counter-discourse of utopian sf novels has no longer present the utopian elements of the future, but, contrastly present the worst possibilities of the future. It appears that the dystopian sf writers present narratives about crisis, poverty, darkness, and pessimism in their novels. It even reads as a form of criticism and warning that the writers are trying to convey to the reader through fictional texts. In the end, the conditions of crisis seen in the text of these dystopian sf novels open its relationship with the world's history outside the text.Keywords: crisis, dystopian science fiction, America, history.