bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on the Cosmeceutical and External Applications ofNigella sativa
Authors: Eid Ahmad M. , Elmarzugi Nagib A. , Abu Ayyash Laila M. , Sawafta Maher N. , Daana Hadeel I.
Published: November 2017

It is estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO) that most of the world’s population depends on herbal medicine for their health care.Nigella sativa (N. sativa),also known as black-caraway and as “Kalonji,” is a well-known seed all over the world. It is one of the most common medicinal plants worldwide and contains many useful chemical constituents that we can find in its fixed oil, such as thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone, thymol, nigellicine, carvacrol, nigellimine, nigellicine, nigellidine, and alpha-hederin. Due to these numerous important ingredients it was found that it affects different areas of our body and has many pharmacological effects as antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing effect and also for acne vulgaris, skin cancer, pigmentation, and many cosmeceutical applications. Based on the folklore usage ofN. sativaseeds and oil, they are used in various systems of food and medicines. The aim of this article is to provide a detailed survey of the literature of cosmeceutical and external applications ofN. sativawhich is expected to stimulate further studies on this subject.
The Root Membrane Technique: Human Histologic Evidence after Five Years of Function
Authors: Mitsias Miltiadis E. , Siormpas Konstantinos D. , Kotsakis Georgios A. , Ganz Scott D. , Mangano Carlo , Iezzi Giovanna
Published: November 2017

Background. The “root membrane” (RM) is a technique that has become popular among implantologists for placement of immediate implants in the anterior maxilla. Purpose. To present histologic evidence of an immediate implant placed in the human anterior maxilla, according to the RM technique, and retrieved after five years. Methods. A fixture, along with the surrounding tissues, was retrieved from the anterior maxilla of a 68-year-old patient, who had been treated five years earlier with immediate implant placement and RM technique. The specimen was processed for histologic/histomorphometric evaluation. Results. The buccal bone plate was maintained without any resorption; a healthy periodontal ligament was evidenced. The implant showed osseointegration, with a high percentage of bone-to-implant contact (BIC = 76.2%). With regard to the space between the RM and the implant, the apical and medial thirds were filled with compact, mature bone; the coronal third was colonized by noninfiltrated connective tissue. Conclusions. The RM technique appears to be effective in preventing bone resorption of the buccal bone plate of the human anterior maxilla, five years after the placement of an immediate implant.
A Joint Inspection-Based Preventive Maintenance and Spare Ordering Optimization Policy Using a Three-Stage Failure Process
Authors: Zhao Fei , Xie Fengfeng , Shi Chenghua , Kang Jianshe
Published: November 2017

Separated decision-making for maintenance and spare ordering is unrealistic in the industry, so this paper aims to optimize them together. A joint policy of inspection-based preventive maintenance (PM) and spare ordering considering two modes of spare ordering, namely, a regular order and an emergency order, is proposed for single-unit systems using a three-stage failure process. If the system is recognized to be in the minor defective stage, the original inspection interval is shortened and a regular order is placed. However, replacement is undertaken preventively or correctively if the severe defective stage is identified or a failure occurs. Depending on the system state and the state of the regular ordered spare when replacement is needed, all possible scenarios are considered to construct optimization model I. The decision variables are the optimal inspection interval and the times of shortening the original inspection interval. Additionally, model II on the basis of an assumption that the spare is always ordered at time 0 is also developed. The results from a numerical example illustrated the applicability and the effectiveness of model I compared to model II, and the irregular inspection policy is validated to be cost-saving compared to the regular inspection policy.
Height, Obesity, and the Risk of TMPRSS2:ERG-Defined Prostate Cancer
Authors: Graff Rebecca E. , Ahearn Thomas U. , Pettersson Andreas , Ebot Ericka M. , Gerke Travis , Penney Kathryn L. , Wilson Kathryn M. , Markt Sarah C. , Pernar Claire H. , Gonzalez-Feliciano Amparo G. , Song Mingyang , Lis Rosina T. , Schmidt Daniel R. , Vander Heiden Matthew G. , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Giovannucci Edward L. , Loda Massimo , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: November 2017

Background: The largest molecular subtype of primary prostate cancer is defined by the TMPRSS2:ERG gene fusion. Few studies, however, have investigated etiologic differences by TMPRSS2:ERG status. Because the fusion is hormone-regulated and a man's hormonal milieu varies by height and obesity status, we hypothesized that both may be differentially associated with risk of TMPRSS2:ERG-defined disease.

Methods: Our study included 49,372 men from the prospective Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Participants reported height and weight at baseline in 1986 and updated weight biennially thereafter through 2009. Tumor ERG protein expression (a TMPRSS2:ERG marker) was immunohistochemically assessed. We used multivariable competing risks models to calculate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of ERG-positive and ERG-negative prostate cancer.

Results: During 23 years of follow-up, we identified 5,847 incident prostate cancers, among which 913 were ERG-assayed. Taller height was associated with an increased risk of ERG-positive disease only [per 5 inches HR 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03–1.50; Pheterogeneity = 0.07]. Higher body mass index (BMI) at baseline (per 5 kg/m2 HR 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61–0.91; Pheterogeneity = 0.02) and updated BMI over time (per 5 kg/m2 HR 0.86; 95% CI, 0.74–1.00; Pheterogeneity = 0.07) were associated with a reduced risk of ERG-positive disease only.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that anthropometrics may be uniquely associated with TMPRSS2:ERG-positive prostate cancer; taller height may be associated with greater risk, whereas obesity may be associated with lower risk.

Impact: Our study provides strong rationale for further investigations of other prostate cancer risk factors that may be distinctly associated with subtypes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(2); 193–200. ©2017 AACR.
Aging-Related Disease Risks among Young Thyroid Cancer Survivors
Authors: Blackburn Brenna E. , Ganz Patricia A. , Rowe Kerry , Snyder John , Wan Yuan , Deshmukh Vikrant , Newman Michael , Fraser Alison , Smith Ken , Herget Kimberly , Kim Jaewhan , Kirchhoff Anne C. , Porucznik Christina , Hanson Heidi , Monroe Marcus , Hashibe Mia
Published: November 2017

Background: Thyroid cancer is the most rapidly increasing cancer in the United States, affects a young population, has high survival, and is one of the most common cancers in people under age 40. The aim of this study was to examine the risks of aging-related diseases in a statewide sample of thyroid cancer survivors who were diagnosed <40 years compared with those diagnosed ≥40 and a cancer-free sample.

Methods: Thyroid cancer survivors diagnosed 1997 to 2012 were matched to up to 5 cancer-free individuals on birth year, sex, birth state, using the statewide Utah Population Database. Medical records were used to identify disease diagnoses stratified over three time periods: 1 to 5, >5 to 10, and 10+ years after cancer diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios with adjustment on matching factors, race, body mass index, and Charlson Comorbidity Index.

Results: There were 3,706 thyroid cancer survivors and 15,587 matched cancer-free individuals (1,365 cases diagnosed <40 years old). Both age groups had increased risks for multiple circulatory health conditions 1 to 5 years after cancer diagnosis compared with cancer-free individuals. Survivors <40 had a higher risk of hypertension, cardiomyopathy, and nutritional deficiencies.

Conclusions: Increased risks for diseases associated with aging were observed for both age groups, with younger thyroid cancer survivors having higher risks for select diseases.

Impact: As thyroid cancer survivors in this study were found to have increased risks for aging-related diseases, future studies are needed to assess what can be done to reduce the increased risks of these long-term health effects. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1695–704. ©2017 AACR.
Surgical Enlargement of the Aortic Root Does Not Increase the Operative Risk of Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Rocha Rodolfo V. , Manlhiot Cedric , Feindel Christopher M. , Yau Terrence M. , Mueller Brigitte , David Tirone E. , Ouzounian Maral
Published: November 2017

Background:

Surgical aortic root enlargement (ARE) during aortic valve replacement (AVR) allows for larger prosthesis implantation and may be an important adjunct to surgical AVR in the transcatheter valve-in-valve era. The incremental operative risk of adding ARE to AVR has not been established. We aimed to evaluate the early outcomes of patients undergoing AVR with or without ARE.

Methods:

From January 1990 to August 2014, 7039 patients underwent AVR (AVR+ARE, n=1854; AVR, n=5185) at a single institution. Patients with aortic dissection and active endocarditis were excluded. Mean age was 65±14 years and 63% were male. Logistic regression and propensity score matching were used to adjust for unbalanced variables in group comparisons.

Results:

Patients undergoing AVR+ARE were more likely to be female (46% versus 34%,
P
<0.001) and had higher rates of previous cardiac surgery (18% versus 12%,
P
<0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (5% versus 3%,
P
=0.004), urgent/emergent status (6% versus 4%,
P
=0.01), and worse New York Heart Association status (
P
<0.001). Most patients received bioprosthetic valves (AVR+ARE: 73.4% versus AVR: 73.3%,
P
=0.98) and also underwent concomitant cardiac procedures (AVR+ARE: 68% versus AVR: 67%,
P
=0.31). Mean prosthesis size implanted was slightly smaller in patients requiring AVR+ARE versus AVR (23.4±2.1 versus 24.1±2.3,
P
<0.001). In-hospital mortality was higher after AVR+ARE (4.3% versus 3.0%,
P
=0.008), although when the cohort was restricted to patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement with or without root enlargement, mortality was not statistically different (AVR+ARE: 1.7% versus AVR: 1.1%,
P
=0.29). After adjustment for baseline characteristics, AVR+ARE was not associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality when compared with AVR (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.75–1.41;
P
=0.85). Furthermore, AVR+ARE was not associated with an increased risk of postoperative adverse events. Results were similar if propensity matching was used instead of multivariable adjustments for baseline characteristics.

Conclusions:

In the largest analysis to date, ARE was not associated with increased risk of mortality or adverse events. Surgical ARE is a safe adjunct to AVR in the modern era.
Rank-Optimized Logistic Matrix Regression toward Improved Matrix Data Classification
Authors: Zhang Jianguang , Jiang Jianmin
Published: November 2017

While existing logistic regression suffers from overfitting and often fails in considering structural information, we propose a novel matrix-based logistic regression to overcome the weakness. In the proposed method, 2D matrices are directly used to learn two groups of parameter vectors along each dimension without vectorization, which allows the proposed method to fully exploit the underlying structural information embedded inside the 2D matrices. Further, we add a joint [Formula: see text]-norm on two parameter matrices, which are organized by aligning each group of parameter vectors in columns. This added co-regularization term has two roles—enhancing the effect of regularization and optimizing the rank during the learning process. With our proposed fast iterative solution, we carried out extensive experiments. The results show that in comparison to both the traditional tensor-based methods and the vector-based regression methods, our proposed solution achieves better performance for matrix data classifications.
Statistics of Visual Responses to Image Object Stimuli from Primate AIT Neurons to DNN Neurons
Authors: Dong Qiulei , Wang Hong , Hu Zhanyi
Published: November 2017

Under the goal-driven paradigm, Yamins et al. ( 2014 ; Yamins & DiCarlo, 2016 ) have shown that by optimizing only the final eight-way categorization performance of a four-layer hierarchical network, not only can its top output layer quantitatively predict IT neuron responses but its penultimate layer can also automatically predict V4 neuron responses. Currently, deep neural networks (DNNs) in the field of computer vision have reached image object categorization performance comparable to that of human beings on ImageNet, a data set that contains 1.3 million training images of 1000 categories. We explore whether the DNN neurons (units in DNNs) possess image object representational statistics similar to monkey IT neurons, particularly when the network becomes deeper and the number of image categories becomes larger, using VGG19, a typical and widely used deep network of 19 layers in the computer vision field. Following Lehky, Kiani, Esteky, and Tanaka ( 2011 , 2014 ), where the response statistics of 674 IT neurons to 806 image stimuli are analyzed using three measures (kurtosis, Pareto tail index, and intrinsic dimensionality), we investigate the three issues in this letter using the same three measures: (1) the similarities and differences of the neural response statistics between VGG19 and primate IT cortex, (2) the variation trends of the response statistics of VGG19 neurons at different layers from low to high, and (3) the variation trends of the response statistics of VGG19 neurons when the numbers of stimuli and neurons increase. We find that the response statistics on both single-neuron selectivity and population sparseness of VGG19 neurons are fundamentally different from those of IT neurons in most cases; by increasing the number of neurons in different layers and the number of stimuli, the response statistics of neurons at different layers from low to high do not substantially change; and the estimated intrinsic dimensionality values at the low convolutional layers of VGG19 are considerably larger than the value of approximately 100 reported for IT neurons in Lehky et al. ( 2014 ), whereas those at the high fully connected layers are close to or lower than 100. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first attempt to analyze the response statistics of DNN neurons with respect to primate IT neurons in image object representation.
A Hitherto Unknown Medical Fragment in Syriac. Evidence of Recipes and Prescriptions from the Qubbet el-Ḫazne of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus
Authors: Fiori Emiliano
Published: November 2017

This paper presents the first edition of two leaves with medical content discovered at the beginning of the 20th century in the Qubbet el-Ḫazne of the Great Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. The bifolium contains fragments of pharmaceutical recipes in Syriac that are not known from any previously published work. A brief commentary appended to the critical edition situates these fragments in the Syriac medical tradition.
A new species of Raricirrus (Annelida: Cirratuliformia) from deep-water sunken wood off California
Authors: MAGALHÃES WAGNER F. , LINSE KATRIN , WIKLUND HELENA
Published: November 2017

The genus Raricirrus is characterized by the absence of feeding palps, presence of filamentous branchiae, posterior segments shorter and wider than preceding ones, and by having diverse types of chaetae, including serrate capillaries, long natatory capillaries, falcate and finely pectinate, coarsely serrate chaetae and simple curved spines. A new species of Raricirrus is proposed based on morphological and mitochondrial DNA data. The K2P distance comparison of 16S and COI sequences from Raricirrus specimens collected from sunken wood in the deep-sea (3100 m) off Monterey, California, differed in less than 0.02 in both loci from those of another undescribed Raricirrus species collected at deep-sea hydrothermal vents in the East Scotia Ridge, Southern Ocean, and they are considered conspecific. This species is unique among its congeners by the lack of serrate chaetae, presence of acicular spines and neuropodial capillaries. Raricirrus jennae sp. nov. has only long capillaries on anterior notopodia, straight acicular spines with companion capillaries on posterior notopodia (from chaetigers 15–20), and similar acicular spines and companion capillaries throughout neuropodia. Raricirrus jennae sp. nov. appears to be an opportunistic and widely distributed species. The genus Raricirrus is emended to include the presence of acicular spines and keys to all cirratulid and ctenodrilid genera and Raricirrus species are presented.
Sinorhodeus microlepis, a new genus and species of bitterling from China (Teleostei: Cyprinidae: Acheilognathinae)
Authors: LI FAN , LIAO TE-YU , ARAI RYOICHI , ZHAO LIANGJIE
Published: November 2017

A new genus and species, Sinorhodeus microlepis gen. et sp. nov., is described from a tributary of the Yangtze River, in Chongqing City, China. Sinorhodeus gen. nov. can be distinguished from four closely related genera, Paratanakia, Pseudorhodeus, Rhodeus, and Tanakia, by the following combination of characters: pharyngeal teeth 0,0,4–4,0,0, longitudinal scales 41–46, white spots on dorsal-fin rays absent, a black blotch on dorsal fin in juvenile absent, and less developed wing-like yolk sac projections in larvae. Phylogenetic analysis of one mitochondrial gene and six nuclear genes supports the establishment of the new genus.
The Third Atmospheric Scientific Experiment for Understanding the Earth–Atmosphere Coupled System over the Tibetan Plateau and Its Effects
Authors: Zhao Ping , Xu Xiangde , Chen Fei , Guo Xueliang , Zheng Xiangdong , Liu Liping , Hong Yang , Li Yueqing , La Zuo , Peng Hao , Zhong Linzhi , Ma Yaoming , Tang Shihao , Liu Yimin , Liu Huizhi , Li Yaohui , Zhang Qiang , Hu Zeyong , Sun Jihua , Zhang Shengjun , Dong Lixin , Zhang Hezhen , Zhao Yang , Yan Xiaolu , Xiao An , Wan Wei , Liu Yu , Chen Junming , Liu Ge , Zhaxi Yangzong , Zhou Xiuji
Published: November 2017

This paper presents the background, scientific objectives, experimental design, and preliminary achievements of the Third Tibetan Plateau (TP) Atmospheric Scientific Experiment (TIPEX-III) for 8–10 years. It began in 2013 and has expanded plateau-scale observation networks by adding observation stations in data-scarce areas; executed integrated observation missions for the land surface, planetary boundary layer, cloud–precipitation, and troposphere–stratosphere exchange processes by coordinating ground-based, air-based, and satellite facilities; and achieved noticeable progress in data applications. A new estimation gives a smaller bulk transfer coefficient of surface sensible heat over the TP, which results in a reduction of the possibly overestimated heat intensity found in previous studies. Summer cloud–precipitation microphysical characteristics and cloud radiative effects over the TP are distinguished from those over the downstream plains. Warm rain processes play important roles in the development of cloud and precipitation over the TP. The lower-tropospheric ozone maximum over the northeastern TP is attributed to the regional photochemistry and long-range ozone transports, and the heterogeneous chemical processes of depleting ozone near the tropopause might not be a dominant mechanism for the summer upper-tropospheric–lower-stratospheric ozone valley over the southeastern TP. The TP thermodynamic function not only affects the local atmospheric water maintenance and the downstream precipitation and haze events but also modifies extratropical atmospheric teleconnections like the Asia–Pacific Oscillation, subtropical anticyclones over the North Pacific and Atlantic, and temperature and precipitation over Africa, Asia, and North America. These findings provide new insights into understanding land–atmosphere coupled processes over the TP and their effects, improving model parameterization schemes, and enhancing weather and climate forecast skills.
Predictive Skill and Predictability of North Atlantic Tropical Cyclogenesis in Different Synoptic Flow Regimes
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Li Weiwei , Peng Melinda S. , Jiang Xianan , McTaggart-Cowan Ron , Davis Christopher A.
Published: November 2017

Practical predictability of tropical cyclogenesis over the North Atlantic is evaluated in different synoptic flow regimes using the NCEP Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) reforecasts with forecast lead time up to two weeks. Synoptic flow regimes are represented by tropical cyclogenesis pathways defined in a previous study based on the low-level baroclinicity and upper-level forcing of the genesis environmental state, including nonbaroclinic, low-level baroclinic, trough-induced, weak tropical transition (TT), and strong TT pathways. It is found that the strong TT and weak TT pathways have lower predictability than the other pathways, linked to the lower predictability of vertical wind shear and midlevel humidity in the genesis vicinity of a developing TT storm. Further analysis suggests that stronger extratropical influences contribute to lower genesis predictability. It is also shown that the regional and seasonal variations of the genesis predictive skill in the GEFS can be largely explained by the relative frequency of occurrence of each pathway and the predictability differences among pathways. Predictability of tropical cyclogenesis is further discussed using the concept of the genesis potential index.
The KLIWAS North Sea Climatology. Part II: Assessment against Global Reanalyses
Authors: Schade Nils H. , Sadikni Remon , Jahnke-Bornemann Annika , Hinrichs Iris , Gates Lydia , Tinz Birger , Stammer Detlef
Published: November 2017

Observational reference datasets are needed in atmosphere and ocean for quality assessments of climate models and for the evaluation of atmospheric reanalyses. To meet this demand on the regional scale, the Climate Water Navigation (KLIWAS) North Sea climatology (KNSC) was developed. This paper uses KNSC to assess the quality of five atmospheric reanalysis products [ERA-40; ERA-Interim; NCEP-1; 20CR, version 2 (20CRv2); and MERRA] over the North Sea from 1979 to 2001. Differences in sea level pressure (2-m air temperature) can be found in coastal regions for ERA-40/ERA-Interim and MERRA, and are more pronounced during positive (negative) phases of the NAO. 20CRv2 shows biases over the entire North Sea and all seasons of several hectopascals. ERA-40 and ERA-Interim show a negative 2-m air temperature bias relative to KNSC along the coastal mainland of Europe, especially during winter months, possibly a result of a remaining land influence. Mean differences result from winter and fall, mostly remaining within measurement uncertainties. Despite the upgrades in the model setup, ERA-Interim shows negligible differences from ERA-40. 20CRv2 and MERRA show positive (negative) biases during the summer (winter) half year. NCEP-1 follows ERA-40/ERA-Interim but mostly with slightly higher differences. All five reanalyses reproduce the decadal variability and climate shift signals present in KNSC fields. Overall, only 20CRv2 has to be considered as clearly unsatisfactorily regarding biases, MAE, and RMSE compared to all other datasets investigated. This study suggests that similar intercomparison studies, performed over other parts of the world’s oceans, especially coastal regions, can be very helpful in identifying shortcomings in atmospheric reanalysis products.
Conceptualising the past of the Muslim community in the sixteenth century: A prosopographical study of the Ak̲h̲bār al-Ak̲h̲yār
Authors: Banerjee Sushmita
Published: November 2017

This article studies a sixteenth-century sufi taz̠kirāt (biographical dictionary), Ak̲h̲bār al-Ak̲h̲yār written by ‘Abd al-Haqq Muhaddis Dehlawi (1551–1642), an ‘ālim (scholar), who was also a sufi. The text is frequently cited as the earliest, most comprehensive and reliable biographical compilation of South Asian sufis and ‘ulamā’ (learned men in religious sciences) from the thirteenth to the sixteenth century. Indeed ‘Abd al-Haqq is best remembered for his scholasticism as a mūḥaddis̤ (a person well-versed in Prophetic traditions) which is also supposed to have made him into a rather staid scholar of Sufism. But what of him in his own society of elite Muslim intellectuals in the early seventeenth century? ‘Abd al-Haqq was networked into the elite circles of the Mughal court, but he stayed away from Mughal patronage, communicating his ambivalence regarding its political experiments by espousing alternative paradigms. My article studies the structure of the Ak̲h̲bār al-Ak̲h̲yār to comprehend how a Muslim intellectual constructed a history of his peer group at a critical juncture in the making of Mughal authority. My article follows a prosopographical methodology to explore the innovative structure of the Ak̲h̲bār al-Ak̲h̲yār and its complex projection of the past of the piety-minded in Hindustan. As I argue, the Ak̲h̲bār al-Ak̲h̲yār is a carefully structured, remarkable history of sufis and their networks, providing them with contexts and significance that questioned both, inherited paradigms of moral authority present in the fourteenth- and fifteenth-century sufi texts as well as those emerging in the statist renditions of the past from the courts of the Mughal emperors Akbar and Jahangir.
P.V. Narasimha Rao: The Precursor of the Era of Economic Reforms in India
Authors: Kumar Shashi Bhushan
Published: November 2017

Pamulaparti Venkata (P.V.) Narasimha Rao ascended to the office of the Prime Minister (PM) of India at a time when India was stuck at its worst phase of economic turmoil. His keen foresight had initiated India to a path of economic liberalisation, the ripples of which are felt by the country to date. This is a narrative of the policy of a master planner of economic reforms in India, who along with his economist Foreign Minister Manmohan Singh, lifted it out of the economic morass consequent upon the Nehruvian policy of mixed economy of about four decades by initiating the economic reforms in 1991. What India has achieved as an economic power, P.V. Narasimha Rao as PM deserves credit for, along with his team of ministers, especially Manmohan Singh and P. Chidambaram.
In situ photopolymerization of dimethacrylamide-based resins and composites
Authors: Xu Yuling , Zhang Juntao , Wang Haibo , Xie Dong
Published: November 2017

A dimethacrylamide was synthesized and used to formulate with the selected (meth)acrylates to form the in situ photocureable resins and composites. The effects of the selected comonomers with different functional groups on polymerization rate, degree of conversion, gel time, and compressive strength were investigated. The results show that in situ photopolymerization of the synthesized dimethacrylamide with comonomers having an electron-withdrawing and/or acrylate group dramatically increased the polymerization rate, degree of conversion, and compressive strength. On the other hand, an electron-donating group on either carbon-carbon double bond or ester linkage slowed down the polymerization. In contrast, the triethylene glycol dimethacrylate-based system did not show a clear pattern. The synergistic effect of the strong hydrogen-bonding between dimethacrylamide and organic acid groups may be responsible for higher compressive strengths. The formed composites showed the similar trend in compressive strength to the corresponding resins. Within the limitation of this study, it seems that in situ photopolymerization of dimethacrylamide or diacrylamide can be greatly accelerated by copolymerization with monomers having electron-withdrawing and/or acrylate groups. The monomers with methacrylate group can significantly reduce the polymerization rate and degree of conversion.
A comparison of various methods of blood sampling in mice and rats: Effects on animal welfare
Authors: Harikrishnan VS , Hansen Axel K , Abelson Klas SP , Sørensen Dorte B
Published: November 2017

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of blood sampling on animal welfare in a total of 60 NTac:SD rats and 72 C57BL/6NTac mice of both sexes. Blood was sampled either by sublingual vein puncture, tail vein puncture or by retrobulbar plexus/sinus puncture under light isoflurane anaesthesia and, additionally, by facial vein puncture in mice. Non-punctured animals as well as isoflurane-anaesthetised animals were used as controls. Pre- and post-puncture sucrose intake (1.5% w/w) was measured in rats, and nest building scores were studied in mice for 24 h post-puncture. Post-puncture activity and anxiety levels of rats and mice were measured using an elevated plus maze test and an open field test. Stress levels 24 h post-puncture were assessed by analysing faecal corticosteroid metabolites. Sucrose intake and faecal corticosteroid levels were not affected by the blood sampling procedures. Rats showed reduced activity in the open field test and an increased level of anxiety in the elevated plus maze test following retrobulbar plexus puncture and isoflurane anaesthesia. In mice, nest building activity was affected in all the groups compared with the control group, except for animals subjected to facial vein puncture. Retrobulbar sinus puncture, tail vein puncture and sublingual puncture in mice resulted in reduced activity and increased anxiety. We conclude that, of the tested methods, puncture of the tail vein and the sublingual vein have the least adverse effects in rats, whereas facial vein puncture had the least adverse effects on the welfare parameters in mice.
Article Pedagogy: Encouraging Links between Linguistic Theory and Teaching Practice
Authors: Lopez Elaine , Sabir Mona
Published: November 2017

It is two decades since Master (1997) published a framework for second language (L2) article pedagogy, based on several years of research into the acquisition of the English article system. Among his recommendations were a focus on intermediate level learners and a simplification of the rules presented to language learners. Since then, substantial work has been conducted to better understand the underlying reasons why English articles are difficult to acquire by learners with diverse language backgrounds (Ionin et al., 2004; Ionin et al., 2008; Ionin et al., 2009; Ionin et al., 2011; Trenkic, 2008; García Mayo, 2009; amongst others). The results of such research indicate a systematic pattern of errors amongst learners whose first language does not have an article system, with varying theoretical explanations for this systematicity. Despite some intervention studies which have explored the pedagogical implications of this work (Snape and Yusa, 2013; Sabir, 2015; Lopez, forthcoming; Umeda et al., 2017), on the whole theoretical linguistic research in this area has not influenced pedagogy. The aim of this article is to build on the work of Master (1997) by exploring whether the cumulative insights from the last 20 years of research into L2 article acquisition and instruction can help us to better understand the most effective method for teaching the complex uses of the English article system to L2 learners.
A study of the chitosan coating method on polyglycolic acid and polylactic acid embedding monofilaments
Authors: Fu Shao-ju , Zhang Pei-hua
Published: November 2017

With the development of applying acupoint catgut embedding therapy to the treatment of juvenile pseudomyopia, embedding materials are expected to be the perfect for choice by taking advantage of the lasting effect and minimal invasiveness. This work adopted polyglycolic acid (PGA) and polylactic acid (PLA) monofilaments to produce four types of chitosan coated monofilaments with excellent swelling behaviors. For achieving better coating weight gains, a one-dipping-one-rolling coating system was developed. The results showed that both the PGA and PLA monofilaments' swelling behaviors were greatly improved, CS-PGA2 (98.17 ± 3.15%) presented a great difference from CS-PLA1 (47.56 ± 6.15%) and CS-PLA2 (63.31 ± 3.26%), respectively, while CS-PGA1 (87.36 ± 5.16%) had a similar expansion rate to that of CS-PGA2. The resist deformation ability of the monofilament was strengthened and the crystalline zones of PGA and PLA monofilaments were slightly decreased after a chitosan coating process. The CS-PGA group and PGA group were found to degrade completely in 56 days and 70 days, respectively, while the PLA group changed little in the experimental process, offering a new insight into controlled degradation research. In conclusion, all coated monofilaments show potential in acting as embedding materials with good swelling behaviors, and the CS-PGA group is proved to have a higher prospect for clinical applications.
Helping Others by First Affirming the Self: When Self-Affirmation Reduces Ego-Defensive Downplaying of Others’ Misfortunes
Authors: Kim Sara , McGill Ann L.
Published: November 2017

We show that self-affirmation increases helping behavior toward others in need. We argue that as awareness of others’ pain causes discomfort, individuals are often motivated to ignore information about such pain. However, ignoring others’ suffering implies that one is not a good and caring person, which presents a threat to self-integrity. To resolve this conflict, people might downplay others’ pain. Studies show that self-affirmation intervenes in this process, thereby increasing willingness to help (Studies 1-4). Findings further show that self-affirmation leads people to attend more closely to information about others’ difficulties (Study 2) and to construe others’ pain as a pressing need instead of an ordinary hardship (Study 3). Study 4 provides evidence supporting the ego-defensive account and rules out an alternative account based on other-directed emotions. Studies 1 to 4 also reveal that the effect of self-affirmation is more pronounced among people who are less likely to identify with victims.
Using Synthetic Controls to Evaluate the Effect of Unique Interventions: The Case of Say Yes to Education
Authors: Bifulco Robert , Rubenstein Ross , Sohn Hosung
Published: November 2017

Background:

“Place-based” scholarships seek to improve student outcomes in urban school districts and promote urban revitalization in economically challenged cities. Say Yes to Education is a unique district-wide school reform effort adopted in Syracuse, NY, in 2008. It includes full-tuition scholarships for public and private universities, coupled with extensive wraparound support services in schools.

Objectives:

This study uses synthetic control methods to evaluate the effect of Say Yes on district enrollment and graduation rates. It also introduces the synthetic control method and provides guidance for its use in evaluating single-site interventions.

Method:

Combining school district-level data from the National Center for Education Statistics’ Common Core of Data and New York State School Report Cards, this article uses synthetic control methods to construct a synthetic comparison district to estimate counterfactual enrollment and graduation trends for Syracuse.

Results:

We find that Say Yes to Education was associated with enrollment increases in the Syracuse City School District, a district that had previously experienced decades of sustained enrollment declines. We do not find consistent evidence of changes in graduation rates following adoption of the program.

Conclusions:

Graduation rate analyses demonstrate that estimates of treatment effects can be sensitive to choices that the researcher has to make in applying synthetic control methods, particularly when pretreatment outcome measures appear to have considerable amounts of noise.
Palmatine attenuates isoproterenol-induced pathological hypertrophy via selectively inhibiting HDAC2 in rats
Authors: Yuan Yonggang , Peng Wanzhong , Liu Yongxing , Xu Zesheng
Published: November 2017

This study aimed to exploit the potential therapeutic value of palmatine in treatment of cardiac hypertrophy and the underlying molecular mechanism. Rat hypertrophy model was established by intraperitoneal isoproterenol (ISO) injection. The hypertrophy was evaluated with cardiac hypertrophic parameters, hemodynamic parameters, lipid profile, and non-specific cardiac markers. The animals were intraperitoneally administrated with either palmatine or vehicle. The relative expressions of ANP, BNP, HDAC2, HDAC5, KLF4, and INPP5F transcripts were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The relative protein levels of HDAC2, HDAC5, KLF4, and INPP5F were analyzed by immunoblotting. Palmatine treatment significantly attenuated ISO-induced hypertrophy in rats and elicited remarkable repressions in ANP, BNP, and HDAC2 transcriptions but not HDAC5. The downstream effector genes KLF4 and INPP5F were greatly restored in a dose-dependent manner in response to palmatine treatment. Our data demonstrated that palmatine possessed promising therapeutic potential against hypertrophy, which was mediated by modulation of HDAC2-KLF4/INPP5F pathway.
Electro-thermal damage of carbon fiber/epoxy composite laminate
Authors: Wang Zhiping , Ye Liang , Liu Yankuan
Published: November 2017

The present work concentrates on the electro-thermal damage mechanism of carbon fiber/epoxy composites subjected to ampere-level Direct Current (DC) currents. A new fully automated electro-thermal tester that enable one to inject currents through the composites and measure the surface temperature in real time has been developed. The DC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of electrified composites have been investigated, in order to develop a nondestructive testing method for electro-thermal damage. Additionally, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), flexural properties, surface morphology analysis, and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were conducted to exploit in-depth the damage mechanism of electrified composites. Results show that the electrical conductivity is decreased with increasing currents, resulting from the modification of the fiber-to-fiber conduction paths. With higher currents the dielectric properties are apparently enhanced, and this case can be explained by interfacial polarization that arises from the microcracking induced by the residual thermal stress. The dielectric loss tangent can be regard as a characteristic parameter of electro-thermal damage. Furthermore, the deterioration of flexural performances is attributed to the microcracking, which is proved to be the major damage mechanism. High-intensity currents application has an effect of post-curing and physical aging, which significantly increases the glass transition temperature and suppresses the further formation of micro damage.
Studies on the improvement of compatibility in reinforced polypropylene composites using polypropylene-g-anhydride itaconate
Authors: Kim Jung Soo , Kim Jin Hoon , Lim Dae Young , Park No Hyung , Lee Youn Suk , Kim Dong Hyun
Published: November 2017

We prepared long carbon fiber (LCF)-reinforced thermoplastic composites using a new compatibilizer, anhydride itaconate-grafted polypropylene (PP-g-AI). For a good grafting ratio of anhydride itaconate (AI) onto polypropylene (PP), we found optimum mixing conditions such as mixing temperature, monomer content, and initiator type. The initiator, 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butyl peroxy)-hexane (Luperox 101), showed the best graft ratio. The optimum reaction temperature, initiator content, and monomer content were found to be approximately 190°C, 1 phr, and 5 wt%, respectively. We characterized the structure of PP-g-AI using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The ultimate tensile strength of LCF/PP-g-AI/PP composites increased by approximately 15% as the PP-g-AI content increased up to 5 wt%, compared with that of the PP/LCF composites. The fractured surfaces of PP/PP-g-AI/LCF composites showed that PP-g-AI was effective in improving the interfacial adhesion between LCF and the PP matrix.
Reproducing Dystopia: The Politics of Transnational Surrogacy in India, 2002–2015
Authors: Rudrappa Sharmila
Published: November 2017

In the decade following legalization of commercial surrogacy in 2002, India became the largest provider of surrogacy services. Then, in December 2015 commercial surrogacy was banned. In this article I show that commercial surrogacy was no panacea for working-class women, but the ban can potentially be far worse because the Indian state now allows only altruistic surrogacy between citizen couples and their women kinfolk who will provide gestation services for no monetary compensation. By positing altruistic surrogacy as a superior alternative, the Indian state has effectively deregulated surrogacy, potentially allowing deeper exploitation of women. I conclude that if the state wants to halt exploitation of working-class women, which is the expressed reason for banning commercial surrogacy, then policies need to be directed at strengthening labor laws to protect women as productive individuals, rather than wives or mothers.
Pentobarbital Removal During Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hensler David M. , McConnell Deepika P. , Levasseur-Franklin Kimberly E. , Greathouse Kasey M.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Renal replacement therapy may enhance the elimination of barbiturates. Pentobarbital clearance during continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) has not been described previously. We report a patient case involving the measurement of serial pentobarbital levels during CVVH and review relevant literature characterizing extracorporeal pentobarbital elimination.

Methods:

The following is a retrospective report of a previously healthy 26-year-old woman who sustained a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and required administration of pentobarbital on hospital day 0 for intracranial pressure (ICP) control. Given concern for interference with the patient’s ongoing neurologic assessments, pentobarbital was discontinued on hospital day 4. The patient’s hospital course was complicated by acute kidney injury (AKI), requiring initiation of CVVH on hospital day 5. Daily serum pentobarbital levels were obtained during CVVH.

Results:

While on CVVH, the patient’s estimated pentobarbital clearance ranged from 6 to 44 mL/min and the elimination half-life ranged from 17.7 to 65.9 hours. Based on reductions in pentobarbital clearance during CVVH interruption, the elimination of drug was dependent upon extracorporeal removal in this patient. CVVH facilitated pentobarbital elimination in a manner approaching endogenous clearance in healthy individuals.

Conclusion:

We report clinically significant pentobarbital removal by CVVH in a patient with severe TBI. Application of CVVH may expedite reliable neurologic assessments and facilitate the application of clinical brain death examination following pentobarbital exposure.
Experimental investigation of temperature rise in bone drilling with cooling: A comparison between modes of without cooling, internal gas cooling, and external liquid cooling
Authors: Shakouri Ehsan , Haghighi Hassanalideh Hossein , Gholampour Seifollah
Published: November 2017

Bone fracture occurs due to accident, aging, and disease. For the treatment of bone fractures, it is essential that the bones are kept fixed in the right place. In complex fractures, internal fixation or external methods are used to fix the fracture position. In order to immobilize the fracture position and connect the holder equipment to it, bone drilling is required. During the drilling of the bone, the required forces to chip formation could cause an increase in the temperature. If the resulting temperature increases to 47 °C, it causes thermal necrosis of the bone. Thermal necrosis decreases bone strength in the hole and, subsequently, due to incomplete immobilization of bone, fracture repair is not performed correctly. In this study, attempts have been made to compare local temperature increases in different processes of bone drilling. This comparison has been done between drilling without cooling, drilling with gas cooling, and liquid cooling on bovine femur. Drilling tests with gas coolant using direct injection of CO2 and N2 gases were carried out by internal coolant drill bit. The results showed that with the use of gas coolant, the elevation of temperature has limited to 6 °C and the thermal necrosis is prevented. Maximum temperature rise reached in drilling without cooling was 56 °C, using gas and liquid coolant, a maximum temperature elevation of 43 °C and 42 °C have been obtained, respectively. This resulted in decreased possibility of thermal necrosis of bone in drilling with gas and liquid cooling. However, the results showed that the values obtained with the drilling method with direct gas cooling are independent of the rotational speed of drill.
Book Review: Paul T.V., Accommodating Rising Powers: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Rajagopalan Rajesh
Published: November 2017

Paul T.V., Accommodating Rising Powers: Past, Present and Future. New Delhi: Cambridge University Press, 2016, pp. 326, ₹595, Paperback. ISBN: 978-1-316-63394-6.
Fostering Collaboration as Transition Specialists Through Community Conversations
Authors: Parker-Katz Michelle B. , Cushing Lisa S. , Athamanah Lindsay
Published: November 2017

Community collaboration is touted as a powerful way to help improve postschool outcomes for students with disabilities. However, limited research has examined effective practices to initiate a wide range of school, family, and community partnerships. Such knowledge could be especially pivotal to the preparation of special educators for the role of transition specialists. Also, it could be useful for providing important connections among school-based personnel, parents, and community members to link transition goals and transition education. In this study, we examined the experiences of 23 special educators who were enrolled in university graduate studies to become transition specialists. Each led two community conversation events ( N = 46 events) in their local school districts. Our examination of the processes they learned to use and the content attendees discussed suggests the conversations were successful in providing these special educators with the capacity to lead collaborations between schools and communities aimed at improving transition education. Recommendations for sustaining collaborations as part of their leadership roles as transition specialists are provided.
Egg freezing experiences of women in Turkey: From the social context to the narratives of reproductive ageing and empowerment
Authors: Göçmen İpek , Kılıç Azer
Published: November 2017

This article explores egg freezing experiences of women in Turkey. Since 2014, it has been legal in Turkey to use egg freezing technology for ageing women, while it was previously allowed only for disease-related purposes. In cooperation with a private fertility clinic in Istanbul, the authors conducted 21 interviews with older, single women who held either professional or managerial positions and who were undergoing or had undergone the procedure. Drawing on a qualitative analysis of these interviews, the authors explore the social context in which women postpone motherhood and decide to freeze their eggs. The study also looks at the women’s emotional responses to ageing that were triggered by the experience of egg freezing and their narratives of empowerment as a result of the procedure.