bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental evidence for weaker endogenous inhibition of trigeminal pain than extra-trigeminal pain in healthy individuals
Authors: Levy Dan , Abdian Lorin , Dekel-Steinkeller Michal , Defrin Ruth
Published: October 2017

Background and objectives

The prevalence of pain syndromes that affect the territories innervated by the trigeminal nerve, such as headaches, is one of the highest and ranks second only to low back pain. A potential mechanism underlying this high prevalence may be a relatively weak endogenous pain modulation of trigeminal pain. Here, we sought to systematically compare endogenous pain modulation capabilities in the trigeminal region to those of extra-trigeminal regions in healthy subjects.

Methods

Healthy, pain free subjects (n = 17) underwent a battery of quantitative sensory testing to assess endogenous pain inhibition and pain enhancement efficiencies within and outside the trigeminal innervated region. Measurements included conditioned pain modulation (CPM), temporal summation of pain (TSP) and spatial summation of pain (SSP).

Results

Testing configurations that included trigeminal-innervated body regions displayed significantly weaker CPM when compared to extra-trigeminal innervated areas. SSP magnitude was smaller in the ophthalmic trigeminal innervation when compared to other body regions. TSP magnitude was not different between the different body regions tested.

Conclusions

Our findings point to regional differences in endogenous pain inhibition and suggest that in otherwise healthy individuals, the trigeminal innervation is subjected to a weaker inhibitory pain control than other body regions. Such weaker endogenous pain control could play, at least in part, a role in mediating the high prevalence of trigeminal-related pain syndromes, including primary headaches and TMD pain.
Immunological effects of everolimus in patients with metastatic renal cell cancer
Authors: Huijts Charlotte M , Santegoets Saskia J , de Jong Tamarah D , Verheul Henk M , de Gruijl Tanja D , van der Vliet Hans J
Published: October 2017

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a crucial kinase present in all cells. Besides its role in the regulation of cell-growth, proliferation, angiogenesis, and survival of malignant tumors, mTOR additionally plays an important role in immune regulation by controlling the balance between effector T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). This critically affects the suppressive state of the immune system. Here, the systemic immunological effects of everolimus treatment were comprehensively investigated in five patients with metastatic renal cell cancer. In this hypothesis generating study, the immunological alterations in circulating immune subsets induced by everolimus included a (non-significant) increase in the frequency of Tregs, a significant increase in monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells, a significant decrease in the frequency of immunoregulatory natural killer cells, classical CD141+ (cDC1) and CD1c+ (cDC2) dendritic cell subsets, as well as a decrease in the activation status of plasmacytoid dendritic cells and cDC1. These date indicate that the immunological effects of everolimus affect multiple immune cell subsets and altogether tip the balance in favor of immunosuppression, which can be considered a detrimental effect in the treatment of cancer, and may require combination treatment with agents able to negate immune suppression and boost T cell immunity.
Mapping Quantitative Trait Loci Underlying Circadian Light Sensitivity in Drosophila
Authors: Adewoye Adeolu B. , Nuzhdin Sergey V. , Tauber Eran
Published: October 2017

Despite the significant advance in our understanding of the molecular basis of light entrainment of the circadian clock in Drosophila, the underlying genetic architecture is still largely unknown. The aim of this study was to identify loci associated with variation in circadian photosensitivity, which are important for the evolution of this trait. We have used complementary approaches that combined quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, complementation testing, and transcriptome profiling to dissect this variation. We identified a major QTL on chromosome 2, which was subsequently fine mapped using deficiency complementation mapping into 2 smaller regions spanning 139 genes, some of which are known to be involved in functions that have been previously implicated in light entrainment. Two genes implicated with the clock and located within that interval, timeless and cycle, failed to complement the QTL, indicating that alleles of these genes contribute to the variation in light response. Specifically, we find that the timeless s/ ls polymorphism that has been previously shown to constitute a latitudinal cline in Europe is also segregating in our recombinant inbred lines and is contributing to the phenotypic variation in light sensitivity. We also profiled gene expression in 2 recombinant inbred strains that differ significantly in their photosensitivity and identified a total of 368 transcripts that showed differential expression (false discovery rate < 0.1). Of 131 transcripts that showed a significant recombinant inbred line by treatment interaction (i.e., putative expression QTL), 4 are located within QTL2.
Evaluation of hemostatic effect of polyelectrolyte complex-based dressings
Authors: Buriuli Manisha , Kumari Wasupalli Geeta , Verma Devendra
Published: October 2017

The aim of this work was to develop a polyelectrolyte complex-based hemostatic dressing made from chitosan and polygalacturonic acid. Porous dressings were fabricated by ultrasonication of chitosan and alginate solutions followed by freeze-drying. Since chitosan has inherent hemostatic properties, and polygalacturonic acid is anti-inflammatory in nature, it was desired to combine these two polymers to develop an effective hemostatic dressing, which may also promote wound healing. Porous structure of the bandages was observed using field-emission scanning electron microscope. Blood clotting behavior was studied using whole blood clotting assay. Plasma recalcification time, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time were also determined to study the mechanism of clotting. The dressings were found to accelerate clotting rates and showed increased thrombin activity with an increase in chitosan concentration.
The Impact of Sexual Abuse, Family Violence/Conflict, Spirituality, and Religion on Anger and Depressed Mood Among Adolescents
Authors: Sigurvinsdottir Rannveig , Asgeirsdottir Bryndis Bjork , Ullman Sarah E. , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora
Published: October 2017

Stressful life experiences, such as sexual abuse and family violence/conflict, relate to an increased risk of mental health problems. Religion and spirituality may prevent this negative impact, but religion and spirituality are lower among survivors of stressful life experiences. To explore this effect, we examined the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and family violence/conflict on anger and depressed mood. Survey data were collected from a large population–based sample of Icelandic adolescents ( N = 7,365) on their stressful life experiences, religion, spirituality, and mental health. Survivors of stressful life experiences (sexual abuse or family violence/conflict) were significantly lower on religion and spirituality than others. A hierarchical linear regression showed that stressful life experiences contributed uniquely to higher levels of anger and depressed mood. Spirituality was associated with decreased anger and depressed mood. The religion of parents and peers was also associated with decreased anger. Religious participation, on the contrary, did not have a relationship with mental health outcomes. In addition, the negative association between spirituality and anger was stronger among survivors of sexual abuse than nonabused individuals. These results confirm previous research, indicating that survivors of stressful life experiences may experience less religion and spirituality. The results also extend existing knowledge by showing that spirituality may be even more beneficial among sexual abuse survivors, as a protective factor against anger. These findings can help in the minimization of the negative mental health impact of stressful life experiences.
Barriers for Highly Qualified A8 Immigrants in the UK Labour Market
Authors: Sirkeci Ibrahim , Acik Necla , Saunders Bradley , Přívara Andrej
Published: October 2017

The number of migrants arriving in the UK from the EU accession countries has been higher than projected. The evidence indicates that they have been over-represented in low-paid and low-skilled jobs. This is arguably transitory and there should be good prospects of upward mobility. Over-qualification among A8 migrants, measured using the Annual Population Survey data, is examined in this article. The findings show that A8 migrants have been subject to migration penalties at the high end of the UK labour market. There are persistent labour market disadvantages for A8 migrants in the UK and their over-qualification may be a long-term concern.
‘The Only Way is Essex’: Gender, Union and Mobilisation among Fire Service Control Room Staff
Authors: Hudson Lynne , Moore Sian , Tainsh Kate , Taylor Phil , Wright Tessa
Published: October 2017

This contribution to On the Front Line records a dialogue between two female Fire Brigades Union (FBU) representatives in the Essex Emergency Control Room, who led industrial action over the imposition of a shift system that stretched their work–life balance to breaking point and constrained their ability to work full-time. Their testimony reveals how male members were mobilised in the interests of predominantly female control staff. Kate and Lynne’s discussion illuminates the interaction of gender and class interests and identities in the union and in the lives of its women members. It provides insight into the efficacy of trade unions for women’s collective action.
An improved core thermal-hydraulic model for coastdown transient in pressurized water reactor
Authors: Ahmad Idrees , Arshad Saad , Tahir Sajjad , Nadeem Qaisar , Samee Abdus
Published: October 2017

The safety of the nuclear reactor revolves around the accurate analysis of rapid flow transient for the design and manufacturing of reactor coolant pumps. In this article, the coastdown transient initiated by the loss of offsite power is simulated. In this case, the pumps are operated by the inertia of the flywheel, therefore, the reliable operation of reactor coolant pumps is the key to the safety of the nuclear reactor. A new hydraulic, as well as the thermal model, is developed for simulating various core parameters during the coastdown period. The present hydraulic model accounts for both the pump half-time and the loop half-time, which is used to increase the accuracy of predicted results over a longer period of time. The results predicted by the hydraulic model are incorporated into a thermal model, which also includes the decay heat following the reactor shutdown. This new model depends upon the core time constant, loop time constant, pump half-time, and hydraulic constant coefficient. The predicted results of flow rate, pressure, temperature, and departure from nucleate boiling ratio are compared with the experimental data and have found good agreement between the two cases. Finally, the departure from nucleate boiling ratio shows that the transient behavior of the reactor is moving toward safety.
S-Allyl cysteine alleviates inflammation by modulating the expression of NF-κB during chromium (VI)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Anandasadagopan SK , Sundaramoorthy C , Pandurangan AK , Nagarajan V , Srinivasan K , Ganapasam S
Published: October 2017

Hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) is a common environmental pollutant. Cr (VI) exposure can lead to severe damage to the liver, but the preventive measures to diminish Cr (VI)-induced hepatotoxicity need further study. S-allyl cysteine (SAC) is a constituent of garlic ( Allium sativum) and has many beneficial effects to humans and rodents. In this study, we intended to analyze the mechanistic role of SAC during Cr (VI)-induced hepatotoxicity. Male Wistar albino rats were induced with 17 mg/kg body weight to damage the liver. The Cr (VI)-induced rats were treated with 100 mg/kg body weight of SAC as an optimum dosage to treat hepatotoxicity. We observed that the levels of oxidants, lipid peroxidation and hydroxyl radical (OH•) were increased, and enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were found to be decreased in Cr (VI)-induced rats. While treated with SAC, the levels of oxidants were decreased and enzymatic antioxidants were significantly ( p < 0.05) increased. Lysosomal enzyme activities were increased in Cr (VI)-induced rats and on treatment with SAC, the activities were significantly decreased. The expressions of nuclear factor-kappa B (p65-NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were increased during induction with Cr (VI). Subsequent administration of SAC to animals showed a decrease in the expressions of NF-κB, TNF-α, and iNOS. Results obtained from this study clearly demonstrated that SAC protects the liver cells from the Cr (VI)-induced free radical damage.
Self-Control as Value-Based Choice
Authors: Berkman Elliot T. , Hutcherson Cendri A. , Livingston Jordan L. , Kahn Lauren E. , Inzlicht Michael
Published: October 2017

Self-control is often conceived as a battle between “hot” impulsive processes and “cold” deliberative ones. Heeding the angel on one shoulder leads to success; following the demon on the other leads to failure. Self-control feels like a duality. What if that sensation is misleading, and despite how they feel, self-control decisions are just like any other choice? We argue that self-control is a form of value-based choice wherein options are assigned a subjective value and a decision is made through a dynamic integration process. We articulate how a value-based choice model of self-control can capture its phenomenology and account for relevant behavioral and neuroscientific data. This conceptualization of self-control links divergent scientific approaches, allows for more robust and precise hypothesis testing, and suggests novel pathways to improve self-control.
Rapid identification of epoxy resin and phenolic resin using near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Dan Li , Yi-Hui Wu
Published: October 2017

The aim of this research was to investigate the feasibility of Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometric analysis to develop a rapid method for identification of different resin types which had been deemed similar by a preliminary visual examination. Principal component analysis was applied on spectral data to classify two types of epoxy resin samples and three types of phenolic resin samples. In this case, a total of two hundred and fifteen samples were used for the evaluation and validation of two types of epoxy resin samples (SY1342 and SY1346) and three types of phenolic resin samples (Y3567, Y2705 and Y2137). All were correctly differentiated by their respective models. Moreover, in the external validation, the prediction rate of samples correctly classified was also 100%. Such classifications are very important for the detection of adulterated samples and for quality control. Near infrared spectroscopy was shown to be a very reliable, accurate and useful tool to classify resin samples in a fast, clean and inexpensive way compared to classical analysis, and it will enable copper clad laminate manufacturers to detect and take early corrective actions that will ultimately save time and money while establishing a uniform quality.
What is ‘moral distress’? A narrative synthesis of the literature
Authors: Morley Georgina , Ives Jonathan , Bradbury-Jones Caroline , Irvine Fiona
Published: October 2017

Aims:

The aim of this narrative synthesis was to explore the necessary and sufficient conditions required to define moral distress.

Background:

Moral distress is said to occur when one has made a moral judgement but is unable to act upon it. However, problems with this narrow conception have led to multiple redefinitions in the empirical and conceptual literature. As a consequence, much of the research exploring moral distress has lacked conceptual clarity, complicating attempts to study the phenomenon.

Design:

Systematic literature review and narrative synthesis (November 2015–March 2016).

Data sources:

Ovid MEDLINE® In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations 1946–Present, PsycINFO® 1967–Present, CINAHL® Plus 1937–Present, EMBASE 1974–24 February 2016, British Nursing Index 1994–Present, Social Care Online, Social Policy and Practice Database (1890–Present), ERIC (EBSCO) 1966–Present and Education Abstracts.

Review methods:

Literature relating to moral distress was systematically retrieved and subjected to relevance assessment. Narrative synthesis was the overarching framework that guided quality assessment, data analysis and synthesis.

Results:

In all, 152 papers underwent initial data extraction and 34 were chosen for inclusion in the narrative synthesis based on both quality and relevance. Analysis revealed different proposed conditions for the occurrence of moral distress: moral judgement, psychological and physical effects, moral dilemmas, moral uncertainty, external and internal constraints and threats to moral integrity.

Conclusion:

We suggest the combination of (1) the experience of a moral event, (2) the experience of ‘psychological distress’ and (3) a direct causal relation between (1) and (2) together are necessary and sufficient conditions for moral distress.
Book Review: Jayati Bhattacharya and Coonoor Kripalani (Eds), Indian and Chinese Immigrant Communities: Comparative Perspective
Authors: Malvankar Alka
Published: October 2017

Jayati Bhattacharya and Coonoor Kripalani (Eds), Indian and Chinese Immigrant Communities: Comparative Perspective. UK and USA: ISES/Anthem Books, 2015, 328 pages, £60.00/$99.00. ISBN: 978-1-78308-362-6.
Unequal Sharing of Domestic Work: A Time Use Study of Farm Households in Western Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Baliyan Kavita
Published: October 2017

The article examines the issue of unpaid work and sharing of work between male and female family members in cultivating households on the basis of a field survey of 240 farm households in two districts in the agriculturally developed western region of Uttar Pradesh. The study reveals that women’s total workload was much higher than that of men. The pattern of work and time use have hardly changed. The burden of domestic work and care basically falls on women of the household. The participation of men in these activities is nominal. Women’s contribution to farm activities is significant, and further, they do most of the work in animal husbandry. Consequently, they have much less time for leisure and sleep. Our study highlights the permanence of traditional intra-household gender disparities in the distribution of work within the household. These values are transferred to the next generation as young girls are expected to help their mothers in carrying out domestic duties and care work, while boys have no such obligation.
Debating Gender Inequalities: Culture, Economics and Choice
Authors: Palriwala Rajni
Published: October 2017

This paper looks at a little-known part of Leela Dube’s writings through a debate between her and the economic historian, Dharma Kumar, on sex-selective abortion. Drawing on comparative and cross-cultural work on gender and kinship, Dube questioned the application of demandsupply dynamics to social relations and was prescient of later developments in the juvenile sex ratio. The paper argues that Dube and the debate draws attention to four themes that remain relevant to an understanding of sex ratios and gender relations. These are the significance and construction of the social, the depth, range and contours of diversity, understandings of preference, choice and agency, and state action and responsibility.
Measuring Media Campaigns Effectiveness for Environmental Health for Sustainable Development
Authors: Nelson Okorie , Namtira Bwala-Joshua
Published: October 2017

In the field of media and health communication studies, there have been various studies on the nature and danger of virus and infectious diseases in the African continent. However, there is paucity of research investigations on media awareness campaigns for creating awareness of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Africa. This study, therefore, examined the use of media campaigns for the awareness of EVD in Lagos State. For this study, four questions were raised and answered to achieve the stated objectives. Also, this study adopted the survey design, which made use of the questionnaire for data collection. Furthermore, the multi-stage sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 400 respondents across two local government areas (Surulere and Ikeja) in Lagos State. The findings indicated that 71.2 per cent of respondents had adequate knowledge of the disease. Also, a significant majority of the respondents engaged in anti-Ebola health practices as a result of positive impact of media campaigns geared towards creating awareness of EVD. The result shows that there is a strong link between the anti-Ebola health practices and the fear of the disease. This study recommends that programmes geared towards awareness of the EVD and other infectious diseases should be done intermittently so as to help avoid an outbreak in the future.
Employee Engagement and Affective Organizational Commitment: Mediating Role of Employee Voice among Indian Service Sector Employees
Authors: Jena Lalatendu Kesari , Bhattacharyya Pratishtha , Pradhan Sajeet
Published: October 2017

Several studies have conceptualized and tested the relationship between employee engagement and affective organizational commitment. Yet, the mediating mechanism that explains the association between these two constructs was rarely investigated. This article attempts to test the indirect effect of employee voice on employee engagement—affective organizational commitment linkage by drawing responses from 301 executives working in Indian service sector. The finding of the study reported employee voice mediating the association of employee engagement and affective organizational commitment. In conclusion, the implications, limitations of the study and scope for future research are discussed.
Sales Force Incentives at Service Sales Corporation
Authors: Rana Arif Iqbal , Mumtaz Mohammad Kamran
Published: October 2017

The case is about restructuring of the sales force compensation system at Service Sales Corporation (SSC), a large shoe retailer in Pakistan. The organization went through many changes in its supply chain management starting in 2001, when a new COO, Omer Saeed, took over. There was a major increase in sales and the number of shops, and a decrease in the number of salesmen per shop with the net effect that some salesmen were drawing a compensation of ₹25,000–30,000 per month (standard salesmen salary in smaller shops was ₹8,000 per month). When the new COO Amer Mohsin joined in 2009, he was faced with the challenge of designing a salesmen compensation system that was in line with the growth of the organization. The case provides an opportunity to understand how different compensation systems are required as company dynamics change.
Negotiation and its Complexities: A Case Study of Public Sector Negotiation with Vendors
Authors: Riasudeen S. , Fernandez Cyril R.
Published: October 2017

This case is about the negotiation process carried out by the chief procurement officer (CPO) of a leading public sector unit in India. When the company receives an order, the order is materialized by using electric equipment in large quantity. Due to changes in the business situation, the company realizes that it may not be possible to purchase the equipment that they require at the same price as before. The company has two vendors from whom they buy this equipment. Both the vendors have similar manufacturing policies and same raw material suppliers. Additionally, both the vendors have gone through some management level changes. The CPO who is responsible for the purchase of the electric equipment has to conclude the deal with the vendors and obtain the best possible price which is closest to the amount they had previously paid the vendors.
From Kashf Foundation to Kashf Microfinance Bank—Changing Organizational Identities
Authors: Zulfiqar Ghazal M.
Published: October 2017

This case documents the challenges faced by the Kashf Microfinance Bank (KMFB) in 2012, when it was a relatively new entrant in a financial industry established by the 2001 Microfinance Institutions Ordinance. The case documents the difficulties KMFB faced in establishing itself as a microfinance bank, moved away from the unregulated NGO sector where its parent company, Kashf Foundation, was situated. As a microfinance bank KMFB faced the simultaneous challenge of surviving the start-up stage and adapting to the stringent banking regulations placed on it by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The latter required learning to strike a balance between the sometimes conflicting banking and development institutional logics, a typical problem for hybrid institutions with a social mission. As KFMB grappled with trying to meet the SBP’s requirements on capital adequacy, it faced a repayment crisis originating from its parent company, wiping out a significant portion of its equity. The case focus is on a decision KMFB’s board must take, regarding whether or not to invite a new majority shareholder to bring the Bank out of the red. This includes the decision criteria for choosing a shareholder that will uphold KMFB’s mission of financial inclusion.
From judicial independence to interdependence in the international sphere
Authors: Pérez Aida Torres
Published: October 2017

The goal of this article is to develop an analytical framework for the conceptualization of international judicial independence. First, it will be argued that judicial independence is not to be conceived as an end in itself but rather as a condition for the legitimacy of international courts (ICs). Also, independence is not a monolithic concept, but one of degree and the optimal degree of independence might vary according to the function and type of ICs. Second, I will provide a taxonomy of judicial independence in the international sphere and identify and systematize the relevant actors and variables. While studies about international judicial independence tend to focus on the mechanisms available to state governments, this work will take into account a broader set of actors and variables. Finally, a notion of interdependence will be advanced as a framework for institutional design that combines the need to enable adjudication free from undue influence or pressure with mechanisms to counterbalance judicial power. Forms of interdependence on the grounds of the principles of accountability and checks and balances might contribute to the overall legitimacy of ICs.
A combined experimental and numerical analysis on the seismic behavior of short reinforced concrete columns with different structural sizes and axial compression ratios
Authors: Jin Liu , Zhang Shuai , Li Dong , Xu Haibin , Du Xiuli , Li Zhenbao
Published: October 2017

The results of an experimental program on eight short reinforced concrete columns having different structural sizes and axial compression ratios subjected to monotonic/cyclic lateral loading were reported. A 3D mesoscopic simulation method for the analysis of mechanical properties of reinforced concrete members was established, and then it was utilized as an important supplement and extension of the traditional experimental method. Lots of numerical trials, based on the restricted experimental results and the proposed 3D mesoscopic simulation method, were carried out to sufficiently evaluate the seismic performances of short reinforced concrete columns with different structural sizes and axial compression ratios. The test results indicate that (1) the failure pattern of reinforced concrete columns can be significantly affected by the shear-span ratio; (2) increasing the axial compression ratio could improve the load capacity of the reinforced concrete column, but the deformation capacity would be restricted and the failure mode would be more brittle, consequently the energy dissipation capacity could be deteriorated; and (3) the load capacity, the displacement ductility, and the energy dissipation capacity of the short reinforced concrete columns all exhibit clear size effect, namely, the size effect could significantly affect the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete columns.
Partisanship, Individual Differences, and News Media Exposure as Predictors of Conspiracy Beliefs
Authors: Hollander Barry A.
Published: October 2017

Conspiracy theories are woven into America’s social and political fabric. While such beliefs help some individuals organize their political world, their popularity also raise concerns about the health of a democracy when those governed also suspect powerful forces work against their interests. The research here examines national survey data to demonstrate such beliefs have both partisan and individual difference explanations. Generic news media exposure offers little explanatory power, but exposure to Fox News programming predicts greater belief in theories critical of Democrats.
Splitting the World Open: Writing Stories of Mourning and Loss
Authors: Henderson Linda , Black Alison L.
Published: October 2017

This article follows two women-academics engaging in a methodology of collaborative writing that holds each other in folds of friendship. By writing together that which has been hidden, new openings are being created where experiences of trauma, mourning, and forgetting are seeking out ways to re-member and heal. In this process, the authors are discovering ways of becoming-differently in their positioning as women-academics.
The Oppression of Latina Mothers: Experiences of Exploitation, Violence, Marginalization, Cultural Imperialism, and Powerlessness in Their Everyday Lives
Authors: Ayón Cecilia , Messing Jill T. , Gurrola Maria , Valencia-Garcia Dellanira
Published: October 2017

Despite Latinos being the largest growing population in the United States, research has not examined the impact of social structures on the well-being of Latina immigrants; negative social discourse and restrictive laws exacerbate inequality and discrimination in this population. Through combined inductive/deductive analysis of in-depth semistructured interviews, we examined immigrant Mexican mothers’ ( N = 32) descriptions of oppression in the United States. All five forms of oppression, described in Young’s oppression framework are evident: exploitation, violence, marginalization, cultural imperialism, and powerlessness. Discrimination places a high burden on Latinas due to the intersection of forms of oppression and nondominant identities.
A primal-dual active set method for solving multi-rigid-body dynamic contact problems
Authors: Barboteu Mikaël , Dumont Serge
Published: October 2017

In this work, an active set type method is considered in order to solve a mathematical problem that describes the frictionless dynamic contact of a multi-body rigid system, the so-called nonsmooth contact dynamics (NSCD) problem. Our aim, here, is to present the local treatment of contact conditions by an active set type method dedicated to NSCD and to carry out a comparison with the various well-known methods based on the bipotential theory and the augmented Lagrangian theory. After presenting the mechanical formulation of the NSCD and the resolution of the global problem concerning the equations of motion, we focus on the local level devoted to the resolution of the contact law. Then we detail the numerical treatment of the contact conditions within the framework of the primal-dual active set strategy. Finally, numerical experiments are presented to establish the efficiency of the proposed method by considering the comparison with the other numerical methods.
For Loretta: A Black Woman Literacy Scholar’s Journey to Prioritizing Self-Preservation and Black Feminist–Womanist Storytelling
Authors: Baker-Bell April
Published: October 2017

In this article, I used Black feminist–womanist storytelling to weave together stories from my childhood and early years on the tenure track to illuminate how Black female language and literacy practices and the strongblackwoman trope develop across a life span. Through these stories, I illustrate how I existed, resisted, and persisted during my first 3 years on the tenure track as a Black woman and emerging language and literacy scholar with a family. This research is significant as scholarship that centers Black women literacy researchers’ lived experiences is missing from the field. As such, this work contributes to presenting a fuller narrative of Black women literacy researchers’ experiences and working lives within and beyond the academy. This research also expands the field’s knowledge of what counts as literacy research by understanding the complex racial and gendered life span literacies of a literacy researcher of color. It is important for institutions and organizations to consider the knowledge, experiences, and stories I include in this article as recommendations to sustain Black women in academic spaces and shift the culture of academia to better support Black women’s work and journeys.
Investigation of impact force on aluminium honeycomb structures by finite element analysis
Authors: Uğur Levent , Duzcukoglu Hayrettin , Sahin Omer Sinan , Akkuş Harun
Published: October 2017

In this study, the behaviour of aluminium honeycomb structures under low-speed impact has been investigated by experimental and finite element analysis method. The production of aluminium honeycomb composite structures was carried out using different adhesives of different widths and heights. The low-velocity impact experiments of the honeycomb structures produced were performed according to ASTM D7766 standard. As a result of the experiment, the force values which caused damage to the structure were measured according to the time, and the maximum force values were taken. Findings have shown that the decrease in cell width, the increase in cell height, and depletion of multiwall carbon nanotubes increase the maximum impact force values in honeycomb composite structures. It is seen that the results obtained by the finite element method and the experimental results are approximately 85% in agreement. There was no statistically significant difference between the results as a result of conducted t-test.
The role of a composite polycarbonate-aerogel face shield in protecting the human brain from blast-induced injury: A fluid–structure interaction (FSI) study
Authors: Tse Kwong Ming , Bin Tan Long , Ali Bin Sapingi Mohamad , Franklyn Melanie , Lee Peter Vee Sin , Beng Chye Tan Vincent , Pueh Lee Heow
Published: October 2017

Background

Blast-induced traumatic brain injury is the most prevalent injury sustained by combat soldiers at the frontline. The current study aims to investigate the effectiveness of composite polycarbonate-aerogel face shields with different configurations in mitigating blast-induced brain injuries.

Method

A series of dynamic fluid–structure interaction simulations of a helmeted head subjected to a frontal free field blast was performed, to evaluate the effectiveness of the current conventional polycarbonate face shield and three other composite face shields with different configurations when exposed to a frontal free-field blast.

Results

The simulation results demonstrated that the sandwiched structured face shields of polycarbonate and aerogel provided superior blast attenuation than a single-layered polycarbonate face shield. The alternate multi-layered transparent materials of high and low densities provided the best attenuation of blast pressure transmission to the head, with the polycarbonate exterior shell casing contributing to the structural integrity of the face shield, while the lower dense aerogel filler providing high acoustic impedance to blast wave transmission.

Conclusion

This study provides further insights on future development and design of personal protective equipment in mitigating blast-induced injuries to the head.
Bayesian Estimation of Performance Measures of Cervical Cancer Screening Tests in the Presence of Covariates and Absence of a Gold Standard
Authors: Martinez Edson Zangiacomi , Louzada-Neto Francisco , Derchain Sophie Françoise Mauricette , Achcar Jorge Alberto , Gontijo Renata Clementino , Sarian Luis Otávio Zanatta , Syrjänen Kari Juhani
Published: October 2017

In this paper we develop a Bayesian analysis to estimate the disease prevalence, the sensitivity and specificity of three cervical cancer screening tests (cervical cytology, visual inspection with acetic acid and Hybrid Capture II) in the presence of a covariate and in the absence of a gold standard. We use Metropolis-Hastings algorithm to obtain the posterior summaries of interest. The estimated prevalence of cervical lesions was 6.4% (a 95% credible interval [95% CI] was 3.9, 9.3). The sensitivity of cervical cytology (with a result of ≥ ASC-US) was 53.6% (95% CI: 42.1, 65.0) compared with 52.9% (95% CI: 43.5, 62.5) for visual inspection with acetic acid and 90.3% (95% CI: 76.2, 98.7) for Hybrid Capture II (with result of >1 relative light units). The specificity of cervical cytology was 97.0% (95% CI: 95.5, 98.4) and the specificities for visual inspection with acetic acid and Hybrid Capture II were 93.0% (95% CI: 91.0, 94.7) and 88.7% (95% CI: 85.9, 91.4), respectively. The Bayesian model with covariates suggests that the sensitivity and the specificity of the visual inspection with acetic acid tend to increase as the age of the women increases.

The Bayesian method proposed here is an useful alternative to estimate measures of performance of diagnostic tests in the presence of covariates and when a gold standard is not available. An advantage of the method is the fact that the number of parameters to be estimated is not limited by the number of observations, as it happens with several frequentist approaches. However, it is important to point out that the Bayesian analysis requires informative priors in order for the parameters to be identifiable. The method can be easily extended for the analysis of other medical data sets.
A Standards based Ontological Approach to Information Handling for use by Organizations Providing Human Tissue for Research
Authors: Edgerton Mary E. , Morrison Carl , LiVolsi Virginia A. , Moskaluk Christopher A. , Qualman Stephen J. , Washington M. Kay , Grizzle William E.
Published: October 2017

Tissue resources have become an important component of the infrastructure of institutions as well as companies performing biomedical research. Such tissue resources may be in the model of a bank, collecting a limited type of tissues and processing and storing them following a specific protocol. Such banks or archives may be associated with a clinical study or may function indepedently. An alternative type of tissue resource is utilized by many institutions and cancer centers. In this model, the investigator specifies the methods by which selected tissues are to be collected, processed and stored. In such a “prospective model”, initially developed at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Ohio State University in the late 1970's and adopted by the Cooperative Human Tissue Network in 1986, specific types of tissues are not collected unless requested by an investigator. At some sites, both a prospective and an archival (bank) model are followed. This article describes an informatics approach needed to support a prospective tissue resource. It is by necessity more complicated than a model which supports a tissue bank but also can be used by a tissue bank. Of great importance is the approach to vocabulary and common data elements needed to support the informatics system of a prospective tissue resource, especially if the informatics system is to be used by a variety of personnel with greatly varying educational backgrounds.
Sample Preparation for in vitro Analysis of Iodine in Thyroid Tissue using X-ray Fluorescence
Authors: Hansson Marie , Isaksson Mats , Berg Gertrud
Published: October 2017

Iodine is enriched and stored in the thyroid gland. Due to several factors, the size of the thyroid iodine pool varies both between individuals and within individuals over time. Excess iodine as well as iodine deficiency may promote thyroid cancer. Therefore, knowledge of iodine content and distribution within thyroid cancer tissue is of interest. X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) are two methods that can be used to assess iodine content in thyroid tissue. With both techniques, choice of sample preparation affects the results. Aldehyde fixatives are required for SIMS analysis while a freezing method might be satisfactory for XRF analysis. The aims of the present study were primarily to evaluate a simple freezing technique for preserving samples for XRF analysis and also to use XRF to evaluate the efficacy of using aldehyde fixatives to prepare samples for SIMS analysis. Ten porcine thyroids were sectioned into four pieces that were either frozen or fixed in formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, or a modified Karnovsky fixative. The frozen samples were assessed for iodine content with XRF after 1 and 2 months, and the fixed samples were analyzed for iodine content after 1 week. Freezing of untreated tissue yielded no significant iodine loss, whereas fixation with aldehydes yielded an iodine loss of 14–30%, with Karnovsky producing the least loss.
A Unified Discussion on the Concept of Score Functions Used in the Context of Nonparametric Linkage Analysis
Authors: Ängquist Lars
Published: October 2017

In this article we try to discuss nonparametric linkage (NPL) score functions within a broad and quite general framework. The main focus of the paper is the structure, derivation principles and interpretations of the score function entity itself. We define and discuss several families of one-locus score function definitions, i.e. the implicit, explicit and optimal ones. Some generalizations and comments to the two-locus, unconditional and conditional, cases are included as well. Although this article mainly aims at serving as an overview, where the concept of score functions are put into a covering context, we generalize the noncentrality parameter (NCP) optimal score functions in Ängquist et al. (2007) to facilitate—through weighting—for incorporation of several plausible distinct genetic models. Since the genetic model itself most oftenly is to some extent unknown this facilitates weaker prior assumptions with respect to plausible true disease models without loosing the property of NCP-optimality.

Moreover, we discuss general assumptions and properties of score functions in the above sense. For instance, the concept of identical by descent (IBD) sharing structures and score function equivalence are discussed in some detail.
Designing Toxicogenomics Studies that use DNA Array Technology
Authors: Delongchamp Robert R. , Velasco Cruz , Desai Varsha G. , Lee Taewon , Fuscoe James C.
Published: October 2017

Background

Bioassays are routinely used to evaluate the toxicity of test agents. Experimental designs for bioassays are largely encompassed by fixed effects linear models. In toxicogenomics studies where DNA arrays measure mRNA levels, the tissue samples are typically generated in a bioassay. These measurements introduce additional sources of variation, which must be properly managed to obtain valid tests of treatment effects.

Results

An analysis of covariance model is developed which combines a fixed-effects linear model for the bioassay with important variance components associated with DNA array measurements. These models can accommodate the dominant characteristics of measurements from DNA arrays, and they account for technical variation associated with normalization, spots, dyes, and batches as well as the biological variation associated with the bioassay. An example illustrates how the model is used to identify valid designs and to compare competing designs.

Conclusions

Many toxicogenomics studies are bioassays which measure gene expression using DNA arrays. These studies can be designed and analyzed using standard methods with a few modifications to account for characteristics of array measurements, such as multiple endpoints and normalization. As much as possible, technical variation associated with probes, dyes, and batches are managed by blocking treatments within these sources of variation. An example shows how some practical constraints can be accommodated by this modelling and how it allows one to objectively compare competing designs.
IMAGE: A New Tool for the Prediction of Transcription Factor Binding Sites
Authors: Casilli R. , Marongiu A. , Melchionna S. , Palazzari P. , Paparcone R. , Rosato V.
Published: October 2017

IMAGE is an application tool, based on the vector quantization method, aiding the discovery of nucleotidic sequences corresponding to Transcription Factor binding sites. Starting from the knowledge of regulation regions of a number of co-expressed genes, the software is able to predict the occurrence of specific motifs of different lengths (starting from 6 base pairs) with a defined number of punctual mutations.
Effect of Androgen Deprivation Therapy on Bone Mineral Density in a Prostate Cancer Cohort in New Zealand: A Pilot Study
Authors: Wang Alice , Karunasinghe Nishi , Plank Lindsay , Zhu Shuotun , Osborne Sue , Bishop Karen , Brown Charis , Schwass Tiffany , Masters Jonathan , Holmes Michael , Huang Roger , Keven Christine , Ferguson Lynnette , Lawrenson Ross
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) is a common side effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We aimed to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal variation in BMD and associated bone markers in patients with nonmetastatic prostate cancer (PCa) managed with and without ADT.

Methods:

Bone mineral density of the total body, lumbar spine, femoral neck, ultradistal forearm, and one-third distal radius was measured in 88 patients with PCa without bone metastases at baseline and at 6 months. Patients were categorized into 4 groups: (1) acute ADT (≤6 months), (2) chronic ADT (>6 months), (3) former ADT, and (4) no ADT (controls). Serum levels of bone metabolism markers, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), were also measured.

Results:

In the cross-sectional analysis, men receiving chronic ADT had significantly lower total body BMD as compared with former ADT users and men with no ADT. In longitudinal analysis, a significant reduction in ultradistal forearm BMD was observed in both acute and chronic ADT users after 6 months (4.08% and 2.7%, P = .012 and .026, respectively). A significant reduction in total body BMD was observed in acute ADT users (2.99%, P = .032). Former ADT users had a significant increase in both lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD (2.84% and 1.59%, P = .008 and .002, respectively). The changes in BMD were not significantly different between acute and chronic ADT users. In the cross-sectional analysis, higher levels of PINP and CTX were observed in acute and chronic ADT users than former ADT users or PCa controls. In longitudinal analysis, the level of serum PINP and CTX did not change significantly from baseline to 6 months in acute, chronic, and former ADT users, or PCa controls, and the percentage change did not differ among the 4 groups.

Conclusions:

Men on acute ADT had a similar rate of bone loss to men on chronic ADT. Reversibility in ADT-induced bone loss was observed in those who discontinued ADT. Serum levels of PINP and CTX were higher in acute and chronic ADT users and levels returned to the range of PCa controls when treatment was withdrawn.