bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bardoxolone Methyl Suppresses Hepatitis B Virus Large Surface Protein Variant W4P-Related Carcinogenesis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Proliferation Via the Inhibition of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Signaling
Authors: Gee Min Sung , Kang Sung-Bae , Kim Namkwon , Choi Jiyoon , Kim Nam-Jung , Kim Bum-Joon , Inn Kyung-Soo , Lee Jong Kil
Published: June 2018

Bardoxolone methyl (CDDO-me) is a synthetic triterpenoid that has been shown to suppress various cancers and inflammation. It has been implicated for the suppression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-mediated signaling, which plays crucial roles in the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previously, we showed that hepatitis B virus (HBV) large surface protein (LHB) variant W4P promotes carcinogenesis and tumor progression through STAT3 activation. Thus, we examined the anti-cancer activity of CDDO-me against HCC using W4P-LHB-expressing NIH3T3 cells and HepG2 and Huh7 HCC cell lines. CDDO-me exerted cytotoxic activity against W4P-LHB-expressing NIH3T3 cells, HepG2 cells, and Huh7 cells, and induced apoptotic cell death in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating its anti-cancer activity against HCC. Sublethal concentrations of CDDO-me suppressed STAT3 activation by W4P-LHB ectopic expression and interleukin-6 treatment in W4P-LHB-NIH3T3 and Huh7 cells respectively. The suppression of STAT3 activation by CDDO-me in W4P-LHB-NIH3T3 cells was further confirmed by decreased cyclin D1 protein levels and increased p21 and p53 mRNA synthesis. In addition, CDDO-me treatment resulted in decreased cell migration and colony formation in in vitro assays using W4P-LHB-NIH3T3, HepG2, or Huh7 cell lines, supporting its anti-cancer activity through STAT3 inhibition. Furthermore, ­CDDO-me administration significantly suppressed tumor growth induced by W4P-LHB-expressing NIH3T3 cells in nude mice, confirming its anti-cancer activity. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that CDDO-me is capable of suppressing STAT3 activation in HCC cells and cells transformed by the natural variant of HBV protein. The results suggest that CDDO-me can be a potential therapeutic agent against HCC, especially tumors related to HBV mutations.
En Bloc Endoscopic Resection of Large Pedunculated Brunner’s Gland Hamartoma: A Case Report
Authors: Pasetti Annalisa , Capoferro Elvira , Querzoli Giulia , Montanari Renzo , Bocus Paolo
Published: June 2018

Brunner’s gland hamartoma (BGH) is an uncommon benign tumor arising from alkaline-based mucin-secreting glands of the duodenum. These lesions are typically discovered incidentally during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or radiological diagnostics, even though they can eventually lead (in the case of increasing size) to obstructive or hemorrhagic symptoms. We report the case of a 67-year-old Caucasian man with two episodes of melena and epigastric pain during the last month. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a large pedunculated and eroded polyp inside the antrum with a 2-cm-long stalk arising from the anterior wall of the duodenal bulb. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a submucosal lesion with homogeneous hyperechoic parietal thickening and some central gaps. The muscularis was undamaged. No lymphadenopathy was observed. We performed an en bloc endoscopic resection of the polyp. The size of the whole piece was approximately 6 × 3 × 2 cm, pseudocapsulated and tough in consistency. In the case presented, the en bloc endoscopic removal was successful despite the size of the tumor.
Ischemic Duodenal Ulceration after Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Roehlen Natascha , Knoop Richard F. , Laubner Katharina , Seufert Jochen , Schwacha Henning , Thimme Robert , Fischer Andreas
Published: June 2018

Drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) is a well-established, minimally invasive interventional treatment for nonresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Generally, TACE is regarded as safe and effective with a low complication rate. However, remote gastrointestinal ischemia due to the carryover of embolic material into visceral arteries is a rare but serious complication of TACE. In this report, we present a case of duodenal ulceration with contained perforation and severe necrotizing pancreatitis after TACE in a patient with nonresectable HCC and underlying hepatitis C virus associated with Child-Pugh stage B liver cirrhosis. This patient showed, for the first time, complete endoscopic and clinical recovery within 2 months of conservative treatment. Considering the high mortality rate from surgical intervention in all previously reported patients, the significant recovery potential demonstrated by our case suggests conservative treatment with antibiotics and parenteral nutrition combined with close clinical, radiological, and endoscopic monitoring should be considered in all clinically stable patients without signs of peritonism or septic sequelae.
The New Regionalism in Global Organic Agricultural Governance Through Standards: A Cross-Regional Comparison
Authors: Schwindenhammer Sandra
Published: June 2018

In recent years, scholars in global environmental politics have contributed to the development of regional environmental governance (REG) research. This article contributes to the ongoing debate from an international relations perspective. It provides findings from a comprehensive qualitative comparative analysis of the six regional organic agriculture standards (OAS) in Europe, East Africa, the Pacific, Central America, and Asia. Building on research on norm localization, the analysis draws attention to interactions between the global and regional regulatory levels, regional issue-specific normative infrastructures, and the pooling of different sources of political authority by transnational entrepreneurs and regional agents. The analysis serves three purposes in the light of the ongoing debate on REG: (1) to conduct systematic comparative research; (2) to locate regional OAS within the context of conceptual debates about global norm and policy diffusion, critical norm research, policy mobilities, and comparative regionalism; and (3) to outline future areas of research.
Theology and Race
Authors: Prevot Andrew
Published: June 2018

This study develops a Christian theological response to the problems of race and anti-black racism in conversation with black theology and womanist theology. It provides a detailed introduction to multiple voices, developments, and tensions in these two theological traditions over the last half century. It offers an overview of James Cone’s arguments and their reception. It considers turns toward pragmatism and genealogy in black religious scholarship, focusing on Cornel West, Peter Paris, Dwight Hopkins, Victor Anderson, Anthony Pinn, Bryan Massingale, J. Kameron Carter, and Willie Jennings. It analyzes womanist theological treatments of intersectionality, narrative, and embodiment through Jacquelyn Grant, Katie Cannon, Delores Williams, Emilie Townes, Karen Baker-Fletcher, Kelly Brown Douglas, Diana Hayes, and M. Shawn Copeland. Finally, it suggests some open questions related to hybridity, sexuality, and ecology. Ultimately, it argues that the credibility of Christian theological witness depends significantly on the quality of Christian theology’s response to anti-black racism.
Two new species of Pentacalia (Senecioneae, Compositae) from Peru
Authors: CALVO JOEL , BELTRÁN HAMILTON
Published: June 2018

Two new species of Pentacalia are described herein on the basis of morphological evidence. These new findings are the result of field work and recent herbarium studies carried out at USM. Both species are very distinctive and any confusion with the other known taxa of the genus is unlikely. Both species are hitherto only known from the type locality, one collected in Junín Department (central Peru) and the other in Amazonas Department (northern Peru). They grow in Andean humid montane forests. Pictures of the respective holotypes and a distribution map are provided. Moreover, the name P. marinii is synonymized under P. herzogii, as well as P. megaphlebia to P. oronocensis.
Hedysarum ketenoglui (Fabaceae-Hedysareae), a new species from southern Turkey
Authors: BAŞKÖSE İSA , YAPRAK AHMET EMRE , AKYILDIRIM BERRİN
Published: June 2018

Hedysarum ketenoglui is described as a new species from Gevne Valley in the Hadim district in the province of Konya in Turkey. The diagnostic morphological characteristics and habitus of the new species are illustrated. The new species differs from Hedysarum anatolicum (syn: Sartoria hedysaroides) in the habitus, stem, leaves and the length of the peduncle, the shape of the leaflets, the number of flowers in the inflorescence, and the size of fruit.
Revision of Pazala Moore, 1888: The Graphium (Pazala) mandarinus (Oberthür, 1879) Group, with Treatments of Known Taxa and Descriptions of New Species and New Subspecies (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae)
Authors: HU SHAO-JI , COTTON ADAM M. , CONDAMINE FABIEN L. , DUAN KUANG , WANG RONG-JIANG , HSU YU-FENG , ZHANG XIN , CAO JUN
Published: June 2018

The previously recognised closely related species Graphium (Pazala) mandarinus (Oberthür, 1879) and G. (P.) sichuanica (Koiwaya, 1993) are shown to comprise seven species as a result of both molecular and morphological analysis. Molecular dating analysis is also performed on the mandarinus group in order to investigate the divergence time of the taxa. Two taxa, G. (P.) garhwalica (Katayama, 1988) stat. nov. and G. (P.) paphus (de Nicéville, 1886) stat. nov., are raised from subspecific to specific status; G. (P.) hoeneanus Cotton & Hu nom. nov., stat. rev. is separated from sichuanica at species level; and two previously unrecognised new species, G. (P.) daiyuanae Hu, Zhang & Cotton sp. nov. and G. (P.) confucius Hu, Duan & Cotton sp. nov. are described from Vietnam and China respectively, the latter being sympatric with nominate G. (P.) mandarinus. The identity of the lectotype of G. (P.) mandarinus is confirmed and a lectotype is designated for the taxon Papilio Glycerion Gray, 1831. A new subspecies of G. (P.) mandarinus is described from western Yunnan and northern Myanmar, G. (P.) mandarinus stilwelli Cotton & Hu ssp. nov.
Conidae (Mollusca, Gastropoda) of Lakshadweep, India
Authors: RAVINESH RAVEENDHIRAN , KUMAR APPUKUTTANNAIR BIJU , KOHN ALAN J.
Published: June 2018

Lakshadweep, the northernmost region of the Chagos-Maldives-Lakshadweep group of islands located southwest of the Malabar coast of India in the Arabian Sea, is the only chain of coral atolls in India. This paper documents the diversity of the molluscan family Conidae from the seas around all ten inhabited islands of Lakshadweep. Of the 78 species of cone snails now reported from Lakshadweep, 49 were recorded in this study. Three of these had not previously been reported from India, and four are newly reported from Lakshadweep. The results increase the number of Conidae species known from Lakshadweep by 10%.
A review of New World Malaxa (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Delphacidae)
Authors: BARTLETT CHARLES R. , KENNEDY ASHLEY C.
Published: June 2018

The New World species attributed to the genus Malaxa Melichar (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Delphacidae) are reviewed with special reference to the type species Malaxa acutipennis from the Philippines. We provide an amended diagnosis for Malaxa acutipennis contrasted with the genus delineation presented for Chinese Malaxa, most recently by Hou et al. (2013). We find Malaxa to be an Old World genus and segregate New World species into two new genera, Lamaxa and Xalama, diagnosed most readily by proportions of the antennae and features of the terminalia. Both Lamaxa and Xalama are uncommonly encountered. Lamaxa is distributed widely through the Neotropics, whereas Xalama is heretofore known only from Bolivia and Peru.
A new species of Arthrobrachus Solier, Arthrobrachus arquatus n. sp. (Coleoptera: Melyridae) from the South American Transition Zone, Argentina
Authors: ESTRADA PATRICIA M.
Published: June 2018

A new species of Arthrobrachus Solier, A. arquatus n. sp. from Argentina, is described using external characters of the adult male and female including terminal segments of the abdomen and genitalia. Arthrobrachus arquatus n. sp. is morphologically close to A. tibialis Solier, 1849 from the Central Chile sub region, suggesting a phylogenetic connection. Comments on the possible origin of this relationship are made.
Changing River Ice Seasonality and Impacts on Interior Alaskan Communities
Authors: Brown Dana R. N. , Brinkman Todd J. , Verbyla David L. , Brown Caroline L. , Cold Helen S. , Hollingsworth Teresa N.
Published: June 2018

Subsistence harvesters in high latitudes rely on frozen rivers for winter access to local resources. During recent decades, interior Alaskan residents have observed changes in river ice regimes that are significant hindrances to travel and subsistence practices. We used remote sensing in combination with local observations to examine changes in seasonality of river breakup and freeze-up and to assess the implications on travel for subsistence harvesters. Spring and autumn air temperatures, respectively, were found to impact timing of breakup (−2.0 days °C−1) and freeze-up (+2.0 days °C−1). Spring air temperatures have increased by 0.2°–0.6°C decade−1 over the last 62–93 years, depending on study area and time period. Local observations indicate that the breakup season has advanced by about 6 days over the last century. Autumn air temperatures have not changed over the long term, but have been generally warmer over the last 15 years. Over various time periods throughout the last century, we found no change in freeze-up timing for some communities, whereas other communities showed delays of 1.0–2.1 days decade−1. The length of time the river was unsafe for travel during the freeze-up season was 2 to 3 times greater than during breakup. The duration of river ice cover for safe travel has declined over the last century and is expected to decline further as the climate continues to warm, thereby presenting new challenges to accessing subsistence resources and necessitating community adaptation.
On Queues with Priority Determined by Feedback
Authors: Krishnamoorthy A. , Manjunath A. S.
Published: June 2018

Customers arrive to a two-priority queueing system according to a marked Poisson process. Both waiting rooms have infinite capacity. Customers are served one at a time according to FIFO discipline on priority basis: those in waiting line 1([Formula: see text]) are given priority over the ones in line 2([Formula: see text]). The service time is class-dependent phase type. After completion of service, high priority ([Formula: see text]) customers may feed back for service according to a Bernoulli process. Feed back customers are sent to the low priority ([Formula: see text]) queue. When at a service completion epoch of a [Formula: see text] customer, if there is none left behind in [Formula: see text] line, then the server goes to serve [Formula: see text] class. For the two-priority queueing system, we assume that [Formula: see text] customers are not allowed an additional feed back. Both preemptive and non-preemptive service disciplines are analysed. Waiting time distribution of both type of customers are derived. As a special case, the situation where there is no external entry to the [Formula: see text] line is discussed.
A Semi-Parametric Test for Umbrella Ordering of Binary Response Probabilities at Unknown Peak
Authors: Chakrabarti Parthasarathi , Bandyopadhyay Uttam
Published: June 2018

The Terpstra and Magel 1 multiple comparison test (referred to as the [Formula: see text] test) for umbrella alternative at unknown peak occasionally identifies false concavity in the population means. This work provides a semi-parametric test for umbrella ordering of chances of good health (free from disease) with unknown peak in a [Formula: see text] prospective study. The proposed test, a modified version of the [Formula: see text] test, determines true concavity in chances of good health more powerfully and shows low power against false concavity as compared to that of the [Formula: see text] test.
Barriers to Health Care Services Among Palestinian Women Denied Family Unification in Israel
Authors: Daoud Nihaya , Alfayumi-Zeadna Samira , Jabareen Yousef T.
Published: June 2018

Family unification received public and political attention following recent global immigration crises, though less within health research. In Israel, under the Family Reunification Order, about 20,000 Palestinian women from the Occupied Palestinian Territories are denied residency and the right to universal health care services (HSC) after marrying Palestinian citizens and moving to Israel. To better understand the relationship between lacking residency and barriers to accessing HCS, we conducted in-depth interviews with 21 Palestinian women (ages 22–59) denied family unification. Our findings revealed that in addition to hindering access to HCS, lacking residency intersects with other political, social, and economic determinants of these women’s health and disrupts normal family life. Lacking residency intensifies poverty (via private health insurance and legal fees, permit extensions) and leads to family separations and risky crossings at military checkpoints into the West Bank for medical treatment. Restrictions on freedom of movement engender fear of deportation and precarity. Denial of residency also exacerbates gender inequality (increased dependence on husbands) and can endanger child custody when mothers’ lack of residency passes to children, violating children’s basic rights. Allowing family unification to Palestinian women would remove barriers to HCS access, allow normal family life, and permit social integration.
Control of laminate quality for parts manufactured using the resin infusion process
Authors: Kazmi SMR , Govignon Q , Bickerton S
Published: June 2018

Resin infusion is a manufacturing process used to produce fibre-reinforced thermo-set polymer components. This process is utilised in a range of industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine, rail and defense and is a cheaper method when compared to other closed mould or autoclave manufacturing methods, particularly as the size of the parts increases. In this study, wet compaction characteristics and behaviour of three glass fibre reinforcements were analysed, and 2D panels were manufactured with a selection of inlet and vent pressure combinations during both the filling and post-filling stages of the process to achieve control of the final fibre volume fractions. Reinforcement thickness and resin pressure were monitored throughout each experiment and the achieved fibre volume fractions were measured post-manufacture. Void content was analysed microscopically and related to the respective experimental parameters set. The compaction result fairly predicted the achieved fibre volume fraction of the manufactured part. The possibility of controlling the fibre volume fraction through control of the post-filling pressure was demonstrated. Even though there was a risk of increased void content with some post-filling configurations, the fibre volume fraction could still be controlled without creating voids with careful application of post-filling conditions.
Long fiber thermoplastic composites under high-velocity impact: Study of fiber length
Authors: Shayan Asenjan M , Sabet Ali Reza , Nekoomanesh M
Published: June 2018

This study experimentally investigates the high-velocity impact response of long glass fiber-reinforced polypropylenes with different fiber lengths. The study considers three long fiber thermoplastic composites, i.e. 5, 10, and 20 mm prepared via a combination of extrusion and pultrusion processes and a crosshead die. An internal mixer was used to obtain an isotropic compound. The dispersion quality of each compound was confirmed using burn off test. A gas gun with a spherical projectile was employed to conduct high-velocity impact tests at three velocities of 144, 205, and 240 m/s. Internal mixer operation resulted in extensive fiber length reduction for all three long fiber thermoplastic lengths. Results from mechanical tests (Tensile and Izod impact) revealed an increasing value with increase in long fiber thermoplastic length, i.e. fiber length. High-velocity impact results showed higher impact performance for 20 mm long fiber thermoplastic compound compared to 5 and 10 mm long fiber thermoplastic containing specimens. Rate of increase in energy absorption from neat polypropylene to 5 and 10 mm long fiber thermoplastic compounds is much higher than from 10 to 20 mm long fiber thermoplastics. High-velocity impact tests indicated that there may be a threshold value for fiber length beyond which the fiber length plays a lesser role. Scanning electron microscopic analysis showed more fiber breakage at the impact point at a higher impact velocity than the lower end of high-velocity impact.
‘Les pèlerins de la saison sèche': Colonial Tourism in the Belgian Congo, 1945–60
Authors: Verhoeven Gerrit , Payrhuber Nina
Published: June 2018

Belgium has often been labelled as a reluctant colonizer in the past. Yet, a meticulous analysis of tourist magazines, guidebooks, brochures, posters, and documentaries on colonial tourism in the Belgian Congo tells a different story. Travel literature was often teeming with pro-empire propaganda that emphasized the primitiveness of the Congo and underscored the civilizing mission. Tourism was, in this respect, not very different from the overtly positive framing of the Belgian colonial rule that was propagated by museums, monuments of colonial heroes, exhibitions, movies and schoolbooks. The aim of this article is to take the argument even further. Most research on colonial tourism is focused on the creation of pro-empire propaganda in tourist magazines and guidebooks, while the actual appropriation of this image by travellers of flesh and blood is often tacitly assumed or – even worse – taken for granted. Interviews with ex-colonials show that the reality was much more subtle, as the overly positive propaganda was not always swallowed hook, line and sinker.
Improvement and evenness of the side illuminating effect of side emitting optical fibers by fluorescent polyester fabric
Authors: Huang Juan , Křemenáková Dana , Militký Jiří , Lédl Vít
Published: June 2018

A strong and even side illuminating effect is required for plastic optical fibers (POFs) in illuminating applications. In consideration of good flexibility and illumination, side emitting POFs with 2 and 3 mm core diameters are preferred, especially in active illuminating safety textiles. However, the side illumination intensity of side emitting POF varies significantly along the fiber length. Fluorescent polyester (PET) fabric rather than traditional surface modifications is employed to enhance and even the side illuminating effect of POFs based on the emitting principle of phosphors. Two testing methods of side illumination intensity are carried out on semi-automatic devices. The results indicate that 2 mm side emitting POFs might take the place of 3 mm side emitting POFs by using fluorescent PET fabric, with a similar side illuminating effect in applications under certain circumstances.
Hegemonic or Queer? A Comparative Analysis of Five LGBTQIA/Disability Intersectional Social Movement Organizations
Authors: Egner Justine E.
Published: June 2018

This article explores how social movement organizations (SMOs) that seek to address issues faced by people who identify as both LGBTQ+ and disabled engage in boundary work. This article answers the research question: How do intersectional LGBTQ+/disability social movement groups position themselves and construct collective identity and collective consciousness? Specifically, this article explores the degree to which these organizations stress sameness and/or difference in relation to the dominant group by engaging in boundary work and establishing collective identity and collective consciousness. By exploring how these groups engage in practices of inclusion and exclusion related to the construction of boundaries, I examine how the stressing of sameness and/or difference informs SMO’s position in relation to and use of queer/crip or hegemonic discourses. By employing narrative analysis and virtual ethnography, I examine five SMOs’ online presence via their webpages and web spaces via the texts and images displayed. The data in this study show that groups that use hegemonic discourses frequently suppress difference, while those that use queer discourses celebrate difference.
Core vocabulary therapy for the treatment of inconsistent phonological disorder: Variations in service delivery
Authors: Flanagan Kieran J , Ttofari Eecen Kyriaki
Published: June 2018

Approximately 10% of children with a speech sound disorder present with an inconsistent phonological disorder, characterized by inconsistent production of words across multiple trials. A number of studies have provided evidence of the efficacy of core vocabulary therapy for the remediation of this speech sound disorder with a dosage of two speech-language therapy sessions per week. The present study aimed to investigate if two variations of core vocabulary therapy under real world conditions were effective in improving consistency in the speech of children with inconsistent phonological disorder. Variation A was based on standard administration of core vocabulary therapy (with the addition of a third session per week) and Variation B involved one therapy session per week with a speech-language therapist and an imitation based home program delivered by caregivers. This effectiveness study involved five participants (four males, one female) with inconsistent phonological disorder. The ages of the participants ranged from 39 to 59 months at baseline. One child participated in Variation A and four children participated in Variation B. Changes in consistency of speech between baseline and post-therapy were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Consistency of speech improved significantly between and pre- and post-test assessment for four out of five participants treated with either variation A or B. These results suggest that core vocabulary therapy delivered once per week with a speech language therapist and using imitation home practice may be an alternative therapy option for children with inconsistent phonological disorder, with implications for the cost and time required. These findings also challenge our theoretical understanding of the locus of impairment in inconsistent phonological disorder. Given the small number of participants in the study, there is a need for replication of these research findings using a larger number of participants.
Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study
Authors: Vollbracht Claudia , Raithel Martin , Krick Bianka , Kraft Karin , Hagel Alexander F.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Oxidative stress appears to be a key factor in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases and a potential therapeutic target in allergy treatment. Allergic diseases are reportedly associated with reduced plasma levels of ascorbate, which is a key physiological antioxidant. Ascorbate prevents excessive inflammation without reducing the defensive capacity of the immune system.

Methods

An interim analysis of a multicenter, prospective, observational study was conducted to investigate the change in disease-specific and nonspecific symptoms (fatigue, sleep disorders, depression, and lack of mental concentration) during adjuvant treatment with intravenous vitamin C (Pascorbin®; Pascoe, Giessen, Germany) in 71 patients with allergy-related respiratory or cutaneous indications.

Results

Between the start and end of treatment, the mean sum score of three disease-specific symptoms decreased significantly by 4.71 points and that of four nonspecific symptoms decreased significantly by 4.84 points. More than 50% of patients took no other allergy-related medication besides vitamin C.

Conclusions

Our observations suggest that treatment with intravenous high-dose vitamin C reduces allergy-related symptoms. Our observations form a basis for planning a randomized controlled clinical trial to obtain more definitive evidence of the clinical relevance of our findings. We also obtained evidence of ascorbate deficiency in allergy-related diseases. Trial registration: Clinical Trials NCT02422901.
Numerical investigation of aerodynamic effects of opposite wrap-around fins at supersonic speeds
Authors: Bagheri Amir , Pasandidehfard Mahmoud , Tavakoli Sabour Seyed Ali
Published: June 2018

In this research work, using numerical simulations, the three-dimensional flow around a standard projectile is investigated with two fin arrangement models, namely opposite and conventional wrap-around fins. Eliminating the rolling moment and investigation of aerodynamic performance of the new geometries are the purpose of this paper. Finite volume method is used to undertake the numerical simulations where flow is considered to be compressible, steady, nonviscous, and three-dimensional. For this purpose, the research begins with simulating the flow around a projectile with conventional fin arrangement and then the obtained values of drag coefficients and rolling moment are compared against experimental data, indicating the validity of the simulation results. After then, the effect of wrap-around fins in an opposite arrangement is investigated, with the results compared against those of the conventional configuration. The opposite fins are investigated at different opening angles and joint position, while the area of fins shading is assumed constant in all cases. Simulations were conducted at three Mach numbers of 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5, different angles of attack ranging within 0–14°, and lateral wind angles up to 8°. According to the results, the rolling moment in conventional wrap-around fins is a result of the pressure difference between sides of the fins, so that it can be avoided by configuring the fins in an opposite arrangement, which contributes to slightly higher drag coefficients too. Fin dimensions and their opening angle influence the regime of the flow passing through the fins, making their aerodynamic performance variable at different Mach numbers.
Learning Efficiency: Identifying Individual Differences in Learning Rate and Retention in Healthy Adults
Authors: Zerr Christopher L. , Berg Jeffrey J. , Nelson Steven M. , Fishell Andrew K. , Savalia Neil K. , McDermott Kathleen B.
Published: June 2018

People differ in how quickly they learn information and how long they remember it, yet individual differences in learning abilities within healthy adults have been relatively neglected. In two studies, we examined the relation between learning rate and subsequent retention using a new foreign-language paired-associates task (the learning-efficiency task), which was designed to eliminate ceiling effects that often accompany standardized tests of learning and memory in healthy adults. A key finding was that quicker learners were also more durable learners (i.e., exhibited better retention across a delay), despite studying the material for less time. Additionally, measures of learning and memory from this task were reliable in Study 1 ( N = 281) across 30 hr and Study 2 ( N = 92; follow-up n = 46) across 3 years. We conclude that people vary in how efficiently they learn, and we describe a reliable and valid method for assessing learning efficiency within healthy adults.
Active fault-tolerant control approach design for rigid spacecraft with multiple actuator faults
Authors: Gao Zhifeng , Cheng Peng , Qian Moshu , Jiang Guoping , Lin Jinxing
Published: June 2018

In this study, the active fault-tolerant control problem is investigated for a rigid spacecraft in the presence of inertia uncertainty, external disturbance, multiple actuator faults and actuator saturation. The attitude system model of spacecraft and actuator fault model are first given. A sliding mode–based fault detection observer and a radial basis function neural networks–based fault estimation observer are designed to detect the time of actuator fault occurred and estimate the amplitude of unknown fault, respectively. On that basis, an active fault-tolerant control scheme is proposed to accommodate the effects of multiple actuator faults, and it guarantees that the state trajectory of attitude systems without actuator saturation converges to a neighborhood of the origin in finite time. Another active fault-tolerant control scheme is further proposed in actuator saturation constraint case; it ensures that all the closed-loop signals are finite time convergence. Finally, simulation results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed fault-tolerant control approach.
Carcinoma in situ within an area of Barrett esophagus in a dog with megaesophagus
Authors: Kopke Matthew A. , Munday John S. , Gal Arnon
Published: June 2018

A 10-y-old Irish Setter was presented with a history of recurrent episodes of regurgitation and vomiting, with more recent development of tachypnea. Megaesophagus had been diagnosed in the dog 2 y prior to this presentation. A solitary polypoid mass present immediately rostral to the lower esophageal sphincter was biopsied during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement. Barrett esophagus was diagnosed based on the observation of a polypoid mass with intestinal metaplasia that arose from the surrounding esophagus. Histology of the polypoid mass demonstrated squamous-to-columnar metaplasia, hyperplasia, dysplasia, and carcinoma in situ.
Are the Elderly Perceived as a Burden to Society? The Perspective of Family Caregivers in Belgium and Kenya: A Comparative Study
Authors: Six Stefaan , Musomi Sophia , Deschepper Reginald
Published: June 2018

Introduction: It is estimated that 70% to 80% of informal care for frail and disabled elders is provided by family caregivers (FCGs). Aim: To better understand how caregiving for the elderly has affected FCGs lives and to compare the perspective of these caregivers in Belgium and Kenya. Method: Semistructured interviews were undertaken with 15 FCGs in Kenya and 15 FCGs in Belgium. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to identify themes. Results: Themes discovered in the experience of family caregiving included profile of the care receiver, impact of caregiving on the FCG, cultural values and norms, challenges in caregiving, coping strategies and caregiver well-being. Discussion: FCGs in both Kenya and Belgium identified experiencing serious concerns. In Kenya, the lack of resources and formal structures play a more important role than in Belgium. Despite this difference, culture-specific views and norms are paramount to explaining the FCG experience in the two countries.
Right-to-Work-for-Less: How Janus v. AFSCME Threatens Public Health
Authors: Eisenberg-Guyot Jerzy , Hagopian Amy
Published: June 2018

In February 2018, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Janus v. AFSCME, a case poised to make right-to-work (or, as some call it, right-to-work-for-less) the law in the public sector. At issue is the constitutionality of requiring non-union members, who benefit from collective bargaining, to pay fees that support contract negotiations on the terms and conditions of their employment. We argue that a win for Janus would threaten public health by eroding organized labor’s power to improve working conditions. Furthermore, we critique the dubious legal theory underpinning Janus’s case and describe the moneyed political interests backing his legal representation. Finally, we chart a path forward for labor organizing in a post- Janus world, drawing inspiration from the winter 2018 educators’ strike in West Virginia. Regardless of how Janus itself is decided, the issues raised in this article remain crucial because the ongoing weakening of unions by legislative and judicial means undermines workers’ health and exacerbates inequities.
Rethinking Masculinity Studies: Feminism, Masculinity, and Poststructural Accounts of Agency and Emotional Reflexivity
Authors: Waling Andrea
Published: June 2018

The past decades have seen a broadening of critical masculinity studies, where terms like the metrosexual, and frameworks like hegemonic masculinity have become staples in the study of men. Although helpful, such terms denote a categorical experience that is either taken up or rejected by men. If rejected, new identities and forms of masculinity emerge to explain away what men are doing and feeling regarding their masculine identity, with little reflection on the question of men’s agency. Drawing from feminist accounts of agency and emotional reflexivity, this article provides an overview of how categorical analyses have become embedded within the study of masculinity, and how they continue to paint masculinity as a static and fixed entity despite their attempts to theorize its fluid multiplicity. In this work, I challenge men and masculinity scholars to return our analytical gazes to our descriptions of masculinity, and encourage the return to feminist theorizing.
Alcohol Use and Experiences of Partner Violence Among Female Sex Workers in Coastal Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Heylen Elsa , Shamban Emily , Steward Wayne T. , Krishnan Gopal , Solomon Raja , Srikrishnan A. K. , Ekstrand Maria L.
Published: June 2018

This cross-sectional study describes the prevalence and context of violence by sexual partners against female sex workers (FSWs, N = 589) in Andhra Pradesh and its association with alcohol use by FSWs and abusive partners. In all, 84% of FSWs reported alcohol use; 65% reported lifetime physical abuse by a sexual partner. Most abused women suffered abuse from multiple partners, often triggered by inebriation or FSW’s defiance. In multivariate logistic regressions, frequency of FSW’s alcohol use was associated with abuse by clients and primary partner, whereas partner’s alcohol use was only significant for abuse by primary partner, not clients.
Facebook diplomacy: a data-driven, user-focused approach to Facebook use by diplomatic missions
Authors: Spry Damien
Published: June 2018

The utility of social media platforms as means for communication and engagement has become important for those responsible for public diplomacy. This article addresses this nexus between social media studies and diplomacy studies using original empirical research based on Facebook pages published by the diplomatic missions of 8 nations in 22 host nations. Data from 161 pages from January to December 2016 were extracted using Netvizz. A multi-stage mixed-methods approach uses quantifiable engagement data and qualitative content. The analysis varies from many previous studies by foregrounding social media as a communication environment and by including audiences/users as active participants. The findings suggest Facebook diplomacy is more relevant in countries that are smaller, poorer and closer. They categorise content using a four-part taxonomy of diplomatic discourse: outward-facing publicity, inward-facing publicity, engagement, and user-generated content. The article aims to develop the field of digital diplomacy studies by highlighting innovative findings and suggesting trajectories for further scholarship.
The competition fetish in higher education: Shamans, mind snares and consequences
Authors: Naidoo Rajani
Published: June 2018

Contemporary education reform worldwide appears to be locked in a competition fetish. This article explores the varieties of competition, including traditional academic forms, contests sponsored by governments and international organisations, market competition and status wars intensified by rankings. Resisting interpretations of competition as naturally occurring, it presents various macro and micro actors, referred to as ‘shamans’, that breathe life into the phenomenon and that are responsible for its generation, constitution and reproduction. These include structural drivers associated with political and regulatory regimes; and symbolic drivers constituted by normative and affective pressures. The article focuses on the extent to which the varieties of competition reinforce, displace, mediate or counteract one another and reveals how powerful policy and symbolic drivers interact to power competition, and how competition forecloses alternative means of educational reform. The unintended consequences of competition on social equity, on academic work and on global well-being are highlighted, and suggestions are offered on ways to escape the competition trap.
A multimode and multithreshold approach for energy efficiency in Internet of things systems
Authors: Ayadi Hayfa , Zouinkhi Ahmed , Val Thierry , Boussaid Boumedyen , Abdelkrim M Naceur
Published: June 2018

The IEEE 802.15.4 is designed for wireless personal area networks. Indeed, wireless personal area network turns out to help greatly in maintaining a flexible mode of communication within limited area networks. It is in this context that our present study can be set, in which the beacon-enabled mode is enabled with cluster tree topology to reach the scope of a rather extended network, whereby the network turns out to be clustered into several subgroups. Every single subgroup is characterized by its specific duty cycle which is configured by its correspondent personal area network coordinator. Therefore, many modes are enabled in the same network. Based on a very special mathematical model developed by us for energy consumption, the personal area network coordinator detects the actual level of energy in the battery of node. Then, an interesting comparison is made with the multiple thresholds which are already set. After that, both beacon order and superframe order (the standard IEEE 802.15.4 parameters) are recomputed with reference to the remaining energy.
Exploring Racial Differences Surrounding Prostate Cancer Screening: Beliefs and Attitudes in Community Dwelling Men Attending an Urban Men’s Health Event
Authors: Hewitt Timothy , Killinger Kim A. , Hiller Spencer , Boura Judith A. , Lutz Michael
Published: June 2018

The purpose of the study was to explore attitudes/beliefs in men attending an urban health fair to explore barriers to prostate cancer (PCa) screening. Five hundred and forty-four men attending the PCa booth at the fair in 2014 or 2015 completed questionnaires about PCa. Data were examined using Pearson’s χ2, Fisher’s Exact, and Wilcoxon rank tests after grouping men by African American (AA) and non-African American ethnicity. Three hundred and twenty-six (60%) men were AA and two hundred and eighteen (40%) were non-AA (89% white). Median age (54 vs. 56 years) and prior PCa screening were similar between AA and non-AA; income ( p = .044) and education ( p = .0002) differed. AA men were less likely to have researched prostate-specific antigen (PSA) on the internet ( p = .003), but more used TV ( p = .003) and media ( p = .0014) as information sources. Family members had a stronger influence over screening decisions for AA men ( p = .005). After reading PSA information, AA men were more likely to still be confused ( p = .008). A higher proportion of AA men were less worried about dying from PCa ( p = .0006), but would want treatment immediately instead of watchful waiting ( p < .0001). Interestingly, a higher proportion of AA men indicated that they would prefer not to know if they had PCa ( p = .001). Ultimately, more AA men had a PSA done (98.4% vs. 95.1%; p = .031). When considering screening eligible men, a higher proportion of AA men had an abnormal PSA (13.1% vs. 5.3%; p = .037). AA men’s beliefs surrounding PCa differ from non-AA men, and should be considered when developing culturally appropriate education, screening, and treatment strategies for this group.
From pedagogical isolationism to internationalism: A challenge for Kuwaiti teachers’ colleges
Authors: Alshebou Suaad
Published: June 2018

This paper addresses the theme of internationalism in Kuwaiti teachers’ colleges. The main argument of this paper is that dimensions of comparative and international education (CIE) receive little attention in initial teacher programmes. To this end, the study examines first the importance of holding international pedagogy in a time of globalization. Second, it investigates the current context of CIE as a course subject in initial teacher education programmes in Kuwait, and finally, it identifies the opportunity and possibility of integrating international and comparative perspectives in these programmes. The study upon which this paper is based utilizes both document and content analysis. The findings reveal some difficulties, challenges, and concerns related to the context of CIE and the process of incorporating it into initial teacher programmes. Based on this, some suggestions are made with particular reference to the Kuwaiti context.
Pre-hospital emergency medicine and the trauma intensive care unit
Authors: Frostick Emily , Johnson Christopher
Published: June 2018

The system of trauma care has been revolutionised over the last decade with the introduction of major trauma networks across the United Kingdom and the development of subspecialist national training in pre-hospital emergency medicine. Pre-hospital care providers feed trauma patients into trauma units or major trauma centres depending upon the severity of their injuries and their stability for a potentially longer primary transfer to access specialist major trauma services. Trauma services are continually adapting and improving with the introduction of more advanced techniques into the pre-hospital arena are on the horizon, enabling trauma patients to receive more specialised treatment from medical professionals earlier after injury; this article will discuss some of the recent developments within pre-hospital emergency medicine, in-hospital trauma care and on into the intensive care unit, and how this has led to improved outcomes.
Cigarette smoking and risk of celiac disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wijarnpreecha Karn , Lou Susan , Panjawatanan Panadeekarn , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Pungpapong Surakit , Lukens Frank J. , Ungprasert Patompong
Published: June 2018

Background/Objectives

A negative association between cigarette smoking and celiac disease has been observed but results were inconsistent across the published studies. A meta‐analysis was conducted with the aim to identify all studies that investigated this association and to summarize the results of those studies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing MEDLINE and Embase databases through March 2018 to identify all cohort studies and case‐control studies that compared the risk of celiac disease among current and/or former smokers versus never‐smokers. Effect estimates from each study were extracted and combined together using the random‐effect, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird.

Results

A total of seven studies with 307,924 participants fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled analysis found a significantly decreased risk of celiac disease among current smokers compared with never‐smokers with the pooled odds ratio (OR) of 0.52 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.32–0.84; I2 86%). However, the risk of celiac disease among former smokers was not significantly different from never‐smokers with the pooled OR of 1.10 (95% CI, 0.76–1.60; I2 of 73%).

Conclusions

A significantly decreased risk of celiac disease among current smokers compared with never‐smokers was demonstrated in this meta‐analysis.