bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Fast Convergence Control Scheme for a Class of 3D Chaotic Systems with Uncertain Parameters and External Disturbances
Authors: Su Haipeng , Luo Runzi , Xu Ling , Huang Meichun , Fu Jiaojiao
Published: January 2020

This paper studies the control of a class of 3D chaotic systems with uncertain parameters and external disturbances. A new method which is referred as the analytical solution approach is firstly proposed for constructing Lyapunov function. Then, for suppressing the trajectories of the 3D chaotic system to its equilibrium point 00,0,0, a novel fast convergence controller containing parameter λ which determines the convergence rate of the system is presented. By using the designed Lyapunov function, the stability of the closed-loop system is proved via the Lyapunov stability theorem. Computer simulations are employed to a new chaotic system to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Surface Structures, Particles, and Fibers of Shape-Memory Polymers at Micro-/Nanoscale
Authors: Cao Liangliang , Wang Liwei , Zhou Cihui , Hu Xin , Fang Liang , Ni Yaru , Lu Chunhua , Xu Zhongzi
Published: January 2020

Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) are one kind of smart polymers and can change their shapes in a predefined manner under stimuli. Shape-memory effect (SME) is not a unique ability for specific polymeric materials but results from the combination of a tailored shape-memory creation procedure (SMCP) and suitable molecular architecture that consists of netpoints and switching domains. In the last decade, the trend toward the exploration of SMPs to recover structures at micro-/nanoscale occurs with the development of SMPs. Here, the progress of the exploration in micro-/nanoscale structures, particles, and fibers of SMPs is reviewed. The preparation method, SMCP, characterization of SME, and applications of surface structures, free-standing particles, and fibers of SMPs at micro-/nanoscale are summarized.
Comparison of Corneal Biomechanical Properties among Axial Myopic, Nonaxial Myopic, and Nonmyopic Eyes
Authors: Tubtimthong Aratchaporn , Chansangpetch Sunee , Ratprasatporn Nitee , Manassakorn Anita , Tantisevi Visanee , Rojanapongpun Prin , Lin Shan C.
Published: January 2020

Purpose. To compare corneal deformation characteristics using ultra‐high‐speed Scheimpflug camera (Corvis ST) in patients with nonmyopic (NM), mild‐to‐moderate nonaxial myopic (MM), and high axial myopic (HM) eyes. Methods. In this cross‐sectional study, normal subjects aged >40 years with no history of ocular laser/surgery were classified according to axial length (AL) and spherical equivalence (SE) into three groups: (1) NM (SE > −0.50 D and AL < 26 mm), (2) MM (SE −6.00 D to −0.50 D and AL < 26 mm), and (3) HM (SE ≤ −6.00 D and AL ≥ 26 mm). Seven parameters including corneal deformation amplitude (CDA), inward/outward corneal applanation length, inward/outward corneal velocity (ICV and OCV), peak distance, and radius were measured. Pearson correlation and linear mixed‐effects model were done. Results. A total of 180 eyes were recruited. 98 eyes were NM, 30 eyes were MM, and 52 eyes were HM. There were significant correlations of OCV to the degree of refractive error (r = 0.203, p < 0.001) and AL (r = −0.242, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, intraocular pressure, and corneal thickness, there was significantly higher CDA (β = 0.07, p < 0.001), faster OCV (β = −0.08, p < 0.001), and smaller radius (β = −0.39, p = 0.01) in the HM group compared to the NM group. Conclusion. The higher CDA, faster OCV, and smaller radius found in the HM may suggest that these eyes have reduced ocular stiffness and may be less stable and more prone to stress.
Downregulation of CFTR Is Involved in the Formation of Hypertrophic Scars
Authors: Zhou Yiwen , Zhao Yixuan , Du Hengyu , Suo Yinjun , Chen Hao , Li Haizhou , Liang Xiao , Li Qingfeng , Huang Xiaolu
Published: January 2020

Hypertrophic Scars (HTSs) are a complex fibroproliferative disorder, and their exact mechanism is still not fully understood. In this study, we first found that cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) expression was downregulated in human hypertrophic scars at the RNA and protein levels by microarray data analysis, RT‐PCR, and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. To validate that this downregulation of CFTR is involved in the formation of HTSs, we then applied a mechanical overloading intervention in both wild type and CFTR‐mutant mice (ΔF508). Our results showed thatΔF508 mice exhibited delayed wound healing and a significantly larger HTS on day 28. Masson staining revealed that there was more collagen deposition in the HTS, and Sirius red staining and IF staining showed a higher ratio of collagen 1/collagen 3 (Col1/Col3) in ΔF508 mice. Real‐time RT‐PCR showed that the proinflammatory markers were higher in ΔF508 mice in all phases of scar formation, whereas the proliferation marker was similar. Moreover, we harvested the fibroblasts from both mice. Western blotting showed that the expression of Col1 was the same in both mice, and the expression of Col3 was significantly lower in ΔF508 mice. However, in a mechanical overloading condition, the expression of Col1 was significantly higher in ΔF508 mice, and the expression of Col3 was the same in both mice. Taken together, our results indicate that the downregulation of CFTR might affect the function of fibroblasts, resulting in a lower level of collagen type 3 and a higher ratio of Col1/Col3, and thus aggravate the formation of HTSs in mechanical overloading conditions.
14‐CpG‐Based Signature Improves the Prognosis Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Jiang Hong-ye , Ning Gang , Wang Yen-sheng , Lv Wei-biao
Published: January 2020

Background. Epigenetic dysregulation via alteration of DNA methylation often occurs during the development and progression of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the past, many patterns of single‐gene DNA methylation have been extensively explored in the context of HCC prognosis prediction. However, the combined model of a mixture of CpGs has rarely been evaluated. In the present study, we aimed to develop and validate a CpG‐based signature model for HCC patient prognosis. Methods. Data from methylation profiling of GSE73003, GSE37988, and GSE57958 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and 371 HCC patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were downloaded. The 371 HCC patients were randomly divided into a development cohort (N = 263) and a validation cohort (N = 108). Two algorithms, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and robust likelihood‐based survival analysis, were used to select the most significant CpGs associated with overall survival (OS) time and were used to develop and validate a methylation‐based signature (MSH) for HCC patient prognosis. In addition, the prognostic efficacy of the MSH was compared with that of AJCC TNM classification and other CpG‐based MSHs from TCGA. Finally, a nomogram incorporating the MSH and clinicopathologic factors was also developed. Results. Fourteen differential CpGs associated with OS were identified in HCC patients. The MSH, based on these 14 differential CpGs, could effectively divide HCC patients into two distinct subgroups with high risk or low risk of death (P < 0.0001) in the development cohort (26.35 vs 83.18 months, HR = 3.83, 95% CI: 2.56–5.90, P < 0.0001) and in the validation cohort (40.37 vs 107.03 months, HR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.22–4.17, P = 0.01). Univariate analysis showed that the MSH was significantly associated with OS, and the multivariate analysis also showed that the MSH was an independent prognostic factor for the OS of HCC patients in the two cohorts. In addition, stratified survival analysis indicated that the MSH still exhibited good prognostic value in different subgroups classified by AFP, cirrhosis, Child‐Pugh A, tumor histologic grade, and AJCC stage. Moreover, time‐dependent ROC analysis showed better performance of the MSH in predicting 3‐year and 5‐year survival of HCC patients than of AJCC stage and other CpG‐based signatures from TCGA. The MSH‐based nomogram also performed well in predicting 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year OS (C‐index: 0.709). Conclusion. The 14‐CpG‐based signature is significantly associated with OS and may be used as a novel prognostic biomarker for HCC patients.
Association of Serum Immunoglobulin Levels with Solid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Peppas Ioannis , George Gincy , Sollie Sam , Josephs Debra H. , Hammar Niklas , Walldius Göran , Karagiannis Sophia N. , Van Hemelrijck Mieke
Published: January 2020

Background:

The nature of humoral immunity in carcinogenesis remains poorly understood. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to evaluate the association of serum immunoglobulin classes with solid cancer and test our hypothesis that the immune escape of tumors is accompanied by dysregulated systemic immunoglobulin class-switching.

Methods:

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically searched the Cochrane Library, Embase, and MEDLINE/PubMed databases for observational studies investigating the association between serum immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) and histologically confirmed diagnosis of solid cancer in adults. We selected case–control studies, including more than 20 cases, and those explicitly stating that no form of anticancer treatment was administered prior to immunoglobulin measurement. No eligible cohort studies were identified. The primary summary measure was the standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) calculated using a random effects model.

Results:

Pooling 11 eligible studies comparing serum IgA levels in 1,351 patients and 560 control subjects revealed a statistically significant SMD (1.50; 95% CI, 0.96–2.04). Nonsignificant SMDs were observed for the 14 selected studies investigating serum IgG [SMD, −0.02 (95% CI, −0.22 to 0.18)] and for the 10 studies reporting serum IgM [SMD, 0.11 (95% CI, −0.10 to 0.32)]. Substantial heterogeneity between studies was observed despite sensitivity analysis by immunoglobulin measurement method, control matching, type of cancer, stage of disease, and sequential study exclusion.

Conclusions:

Serum immunoglobulin levels in patients diagnosed with solid cancer might be skewed toward class-switching to IgA, possibly reflecting Th2-polarized immunity.

Impact:

Further combinatorial analyses of serum immunoglobulin isotypes alongside other immune parameters in databases and observational studies are warranted.
Immunotherapy-Induced Airway Disease: A New Pattern of Lung Toxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Mitropoulou Georgia , Daccord Cécile , Sauty Alain , Pasche Antoine , Egger Bernard , Aedo Lopez Veronica , Letovanec Igor , Beigelman-Aubry Catherine , Nicod Laurent P. , Lazor Romain
Published: January 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been shown to improve overall and progression-free survival in various cancers but have been associated with various immune-related adverse events (IRAEs), including interstitial lung disease, especially organizing pneumonia. We report 2 cases of isolated severe airway disease attributable to ICIs, a rarely reported pattern of lung toxicity. The first patient received nivolumab with or without ipilimumab in a randomized double-blind trial for locoregional metastatic melanoma. The second patient was treated with nivolumab for lung adenocarcinoma. An IRAE was suspected in both cases due to a temporal relationship between ICI initiation and symptom onset. ICIs were stopped, and high-dose prednisone, inhaled corticosteroids, and bronchodilators were administered, allowing a rapid clinical and functional improvement in Patient 1. In Patient 2, despite prolonged high-dose prednisone, only a stabilization of forced expiratory volume in 1 s could be achieved, and the disease course was complicated by respiratory infections resulting in further loss of lung function. The patient died 1 year later due to progression of metastatic disease. These 2 cases suggest that pulmonary IRAEs secondary to ICIs may present as isolated bronchitis or bronchiolitis, with variable outcomes following ICI withdrawal and systemic corticosteroids.
Esophageal Mucosal Bridge of Unknown Etiology Causing Dysphagia in an Elderly Female: Endoscopic Management and Literature Review
Authors: Debnath Prasanta , Udgirkar Suhas , Rathi Pravin , Jain Shubham , Nair Sujit , Pawar Vinay , Contractor Qais
Published: January 2020

Esophageal mucosal bridge is an elastic stretchable structure, connecting across the lumen, extending either obliquely or horizontally, more commonly seen in the mid or lower esophagus. It can be either congenital or secondary (acquired). Acquired ones are secondary to reflux esophagitis, corrosive esophageal injury, drug-induced esophagitis, radiation esophagitis, Crohn’s disease, Mallory-Weiss syndrome, malignant tumors, and infections like candidiasis, HSV, CMV, or tuberculosis. We present a case of an elderly female, who presented with progressive dysphagia for 3 months, more commonly to solids without any history of anorexia or weight loss. No history of corrosive ingestion, radiation exposure, or prior history of any surgical or endoscopic intervention was present. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed esophageal mucosal bridge at 20 and 25 cm from incisors and mucosal tag. Endoscopic resection was carried out successfully with hot biopsy forceps and needle knife after prophylactic application of hemoclips at two ends of each bridge, without any adverse event. Esophageal mucosal bridge, though rarely reported, should be kept in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with dysphagia. Endoscopic resection with hot biopsy forceps or needle knife seems to be effective.
Life Cycle and Lensing of a Macular Microcyst
Authors: Meadway Alexander , McKeown Alex S. , Samuels Brian C. , Sincich Lawrence C.
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Microscopic details about retinal conditions can provide insight into pathological mechanisms, but these are ordinarily difficult to obtain in situ. We demonstrate how high-resolution imaging and optical modeling can be combined to reveal morphological features of a macular microcyst, offering insight into microcyst formation. Objective: To use adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopic (AOSLO) images to track a transient retinal microcyst and derive its 3-dimensional shape. Methods: A series of AOSLO images were gathered before, during, and after a transient retinal microcyst developed in an otherwise normal healthy 26-year-old male subject. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) independently confirmed the location of the microcyst. Optical modeling was conducted to quantify the lensing effect of the optically uniform microcyst and to determine its 3-dimensional shape. Increment threshold sensitivity, targeted within and around the microcyst, was tested to see if cone photoreceptor function was affected. Results: A transient microcyst appeared as a 50 µm diameter circle in AOSLO images, localized to the inner nuclear layer. Based on image distortion of the photoreceptor mosaic, optical modeling suggests that the microcyst had the shape of an aspherical lens, distinguishable from a spherical, cylindrical, or elliptical shape, indicative of an edematous expansion of laminar tissue. The microcyst spontaneously resolved about 30 days after first discovery. No changes to the photoreceptor mosaic ensued from the presence of the microcyst, and functional testing of the photoreceptors below the microcyst indicated no loss of light sensitivity. Conclusions: Microcysts have been associated with numerous subtypes of optic nerve degeneration, including multiple sclerosis and various inherited neuropathies. This microcyst appeared in a healthy individual and resolved without intervention. Lensing effects can be used to determine microcyst shape, which cannot be resolved by OCT imaging, and to help infer etiology.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Sleep Disturbances in Depressive Disorders
Authors: Melhuish Beaupre Lindsay M. , Gonçalves Vanessa F. , Zai Clement C. , Tiwari Arun K. , Harripaul Ricardo S. , Herbert Deanna , Freeman Natalie , Müller Daniel J. , Kennedy James L.
Published: January 2020

Sleep disturbance affects about 75% of depressed individuals and is associated with poorer patient outcomes. The genetics in this field is an emerging area of research. Thus far, only core circadian genes have been examined in this context. We expanded on this by performing a genome-wide association study (GWAS) followed by a preplanned hypothesis-driven analysis with 27 genes associated with the biology of sleep. All participants were diagnosed by their referring physician, completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser Side Effect Rating Scale at baseline. Our phenotype consisted of replies to 3 questions from these questionnaires. From standard GWAS chip data, imputations were performed. Baseline total BDI scores (n = 364) differed significantly between those with and those without sleep problems. We were unable to find any significant GWAS hits although our top hit was for changes in sleep and an intergenic marker near SNX18 (p = 1.06 × 10–6). None of the markers in our hypothesis-driven analysis remained significant after applying Bonferroni corrections. Our top finding among these genes was for rs13019460 of Neuronal PAS Domain Protein 2 with changes in sleep (p = 0.0009). Overall, both analyses were unable to detect any significant associations in our modest sample though we did find some interesting preliminary associations worth further exploration.
First-in-Human Experience With Peritoneal Direct Sodium Removal Using a Zero-Sodium Solution
Authors: Rao Veena S. , Turner Jeffrey M. , Griffin Matthew , Mahoney Devin , Asher Jennifer , Jeon Sangchoon , Yoo Peter S. , Boutagy Nabil , Feher Attila , Sinusas Albert , Wilson F. Perry , Finkelstein Fredric , Testani Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Loop diuretics have well-described toxicities, and loss of response to these agents is common. Alternative strategies are needed for the maintenance of euvolemia in heart failure (HF). Nonrenal removal of sodium directly across the peritoneal membrane (direct sodium removal [DSR]) with a sodium-free osmotic solution should result in extraction of large quantities of sodium with limited off-target solute removal.

Methods:

This article describes the preclinical development and first-in-human proof of concept for DSR. Sodium-free 10% dextrose was used as the DSR solution. Porcine experiments were conducted to investigate the optimal dwell time, safety, and scalability and to determine the effect of experimental heart failure. In the human study, participants with end-stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis (PD) underwent randomization and crossover to either a 2-hour dwell with 1 L DSR solution or standard PD solution (Dianeal 4.25% dextrose, Baxter). The primary end point was completion of the 2-hour dwell without significant discomfort or adverse events, and the secondary end point was difference in sodium removal between DSR and standard PD solution.

Results:

Porcine experiments revealed that 1 L DSR solution removed 4.1±0.4 g sodium in 2 hours with negligible off-target solute removal and overall stable serum electrolytes. Increasing the volume of DSR solution cycled across the peritoneum increased sodium removal and substantially decreased plasma volume (
P
=0.005). In the setting of experimental heart failure with elevated right atrial pressure, sodium removal was ≈4 times greater than in healthy animals (
P
<0.001). In the human proof-of-concept study, DSR solution was well tolerated and not associated with significant discomfort or adverse events. Plasma electrolyte concentrations were stable, and off-target solute removal was negligible. Sodium removal was substantially higher with DSR (4.5±0.4 g) compared with standard PD solution (1.0±0.3 g;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions:

DSR was well tolerated in both animals and human subjects and produced substantially greater sodium removal than standard PD solution. Additional research evaluating the use of DSR as a method to prevent and treat hypervolemia in heart failure is warranted.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03801226.
Heart Rhythm Complexity Predicts Long‐Term Cardiovascular Outcomes in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tsai Cheng‐Hsuan , Huang Jenq‐Wen , Lin Chen , Ma Hsi‐Pin , Lo Men‐Tzung , Liu Li‐Yu Daisy , Lin Lian‐Yu , Lin Chih‐Ting , Hung Chi‐Sheng , Peng Chung‐Kang , Lin Yen‐Hung
Published: January 2020

Background

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with end‐stage renal disease. Heart rhythm complexity analysis has been shown to be useful in predicting outcomes in various diseases; however, data on patients with end‐stage renal disease are limited. In this study, we analyzed the association between heart rhythm complexity and long‐term cardiovascular outcomes in patients with end‐stage renal disease receiving peritoneal dialysis.

Methods and Results

We prospectively enrolled 133 patients receiving peritoneal dialysis and analyzed linear heart rate variability and heart rhythm complexity variables including detrended fluctuation analysis (
DFA
) and multiscale entropy. The primary outcome was cardiovascular mortality, and the secondary outcome was the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events. After a median of 6.37 years of follow‐up, 21 patients (22%) died from cardiovascular causes. These patients had a significantly lower low‐frequency band of heart rate variability, low/high‐frequency band ratio, total power band of heart rate variability, heart rate turbulence slope, deceleration capacity, short‐term DFA (DFAα1); and multiscale entropy slopes 1 to 5, scale 5, area 1 to 5, and area 6 to 20 compared with the patients who did not die from cardiovascular causes. Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that
DFA
α1 had the greatest discriminatory power for cardiovascular mortality (area under the curve: 0.763) and major adverse cardiovascular events (area under the curve: 0.730). The best cutoff value for
DFA
α1 was 0.98 to predict both cardiovascular mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that
DFA
α1 (hazard ratio: 0.076; 95%
CI
, 0.016–0.366;
P
=0.001) and area 1 to 5 (hazard ratio: 0.645; 95%
CI
, 0.447–0.930;
P
=0.019) were significantly associated with cardiovascular mortality.

Conclusions

Heart rhythm complexity appears to be a promising noninvasive tool to predict long‐term cardiovascular outcomes in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis.
Diagnostic Criteria of Flow‐Mediated Vasodilation for Normal Endothelial Function and Nitroglycerin‐Induced Vasodilation for Normal Vascular Smooth Muscle Function of the Brachial Artery
Authors: Maruhashi Tatsuya , Kajikawa Masato , Kishimoto Shinji , Hashimoto Haruki , Takaeko Yuji , Yamaji Takayuki , Harada Takahiro , Han Yiming , Aibara Yoshiki , Mohamad Yusoff Farina , Hidaka Takayuki , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Nakashima Ayumu , Goto Chikara , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Takase Bonpei , Kohro Takahide , Suzuki Toru , Ishizu Tomoko , Ueda Shinichiro , Yamazaki Tsutomu , Furumoto Tomoo , Kario Kazuomi , Inoue Teruo , Koba Shinji , Watanabe Kentaro , Takemoto Yasuhiko , Hano Takuzo , Sata Masataka , Ishibashi Yutaka , Node Koichi , Maemura Koji , Ohya Yusuke , Furukawa Taiji , Ito Hiroshi , Ikeda Hisao , Yamashina Akira , Higashi Yukihito
Published: January 2020

Background

Diagnostic criteria of flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD), an index of endothelial function, and nitroglycerin‐induced vasodilation (NID), an index of vascular smooth muscle function, of the brachial artery have not been established. The purpose of this study was to propose diagnostic criteria of FMD and NID for normal endothelial function and normal vascular smooth muscle function.

Methods and Results

We investigated the cutoff values of FMD and NID in subjects with (risk group) and those without cardiovascular risk factors or cardiovascular diseases (no‐risk group) in 7277 Japanese subjects (mean age 51.4±10.8 years) from the Flow‐Mediated Dilation Japan study and the Flow‐Mediated Dilatation Japan Registry study for analysis of the cutoff value of FMD and in 1764 Japanese subjects (62.2±16.1 years) from the registry of Hiroshima University Hospital for analysis of the cutoff value of NID. Receiver‐operator characteristic curve analysis of FMD to discriminate subjects in the no‐risk group from patients in the risk group showed that the optimal cutoff value of FMD to diagnose subjects in the no‐risk group was 7.1%. Receiver‐operator characteristic curve analysis of NID to discriminate subjects in the no‐risk group from patients in the risk group showed that the optimal cutoff value of NID to diagnose subjects in the no‐risk group was 15.6%.

Conclusions

We propose that the cutoff value for normal endothelial function assessed by FMD of the brachial artery is 7.1% and that the cutoff value for normal vascular smooth muscle function assessed by NID of the brachial artery is 15.6% in Japanese subjects.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.umin.ac.jp
Unique identifiers: UMIN000012950, UMIN000012951, UMIN000012952, and UMIN000003409
Child Support for Muslim Children in Family Courts in Today’s Israel
Authors: Abou Ramadan Moussa
Published: January 2020

The dual legal system of religious and civil law in Israel and the existence of a religious court system alongside a civil one causes distortions in the implementation of the rights and duties of husbands and wives. Due to this duality, in practice, in Israel, there is neither religious law nor law based on equality. This hybrid legal system leads to the reinforcement of what I will call here “patriarchal liberalism,” which means that there is a development in a liberal direction alongside obstacles and barriers that prevent advancement to full equality between men and women. Although this legal hybridity leads to the introduction of liberal norms into the legal relations between men and women, it also preserves patriarchal features. This article focuses on child support allotted to Muslim children in family courts in Israel. Since 2001, both shariʿa courts and family courts may rule in matters of child support for Muslim children, which means that there is parallel jurisdiction between the Muslim religious law according to religious belonging of the parties involved in cases.
Understanding Policy Shift: Class Interests, Exogenous Pressure, and Policy Reform in the Philippines
Authors: Trinidad Dennis D.
Published: January 2020

The paper is a theoretical discourse on policy shift, defined as the turning point or threshold by which policymaking agents abandon old policy preferences in favor of new ones. It contends that policy shift is contingent upon two factors: (1) the nature of elite interests, and (2) exogenous pressures like world prices and economic crises. The dismantling of cohesive elite interests is essential before policy shift could take place. Exogenous pressures can help achieve this by altering the settings which define these interests.

Specifically, the paper examines the liberalization of trade and investment in the Philippines as an episode of policy shift. In the 1980s, the sudden reversal of international prices of agricultural products forced many agrarian elites to abandon agriculture and shift to other more lucrative business ventures like services and manufacturing. In the process, they explored new areas of interest and formulated corresponding sets of policy preferences. Against this backdrop and under a new constitution, former President Fidel V. Ramos and his successors pursued liberalization. The trend toward further economic liberalization became irreversible due to the country’s commitment to international agreements such as the World Trade Organization, ASEAN Free Trade Area, ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement and the proposed Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement.
The Global Economy and the Erosion of Civil Rights: The Case of the Philippines
Authors: Skene Christopher
Published: January 2020

Today, democracy is widely accepted, almost religiously so, as the best possible form of governance. Yet, despite these widely held beliefs, it is becoming apparent that in an increasing number of instances democratic governments in developing countries have overridden some of the very rights that they are obliged to protect in manners not unlike their authoritarian predecessors. There is now growing awareness of the fact that democratically elected governments in developing countries are often guilty of violating the rights of their people. What is not as well understood is how external pressures can lead to some of these abuses. Using the Philippines as a case study, this paper illustrates how external pressures indeed can lead to situations in which a government condones the violations of certain rights. This occurs when the government is in the middle of a two stage game in which external interests and domestic interests are at odds with each other and the government is in a position in which it must favour the external interests over the domestic.
The Philippine Supreme Court’s Ruling on the Mining Act: A Political Science Perspective
Authors: Ciencia Alejandro N.
Published: January 2020

The study tests the plausibility of an attitudinal account of the Philippine Supreme Court’s December 2004 ruling reversing its original decision invalidating the financial and technical assistance agreement (FTAA) provisions of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 or Republic Act No. 7942. As a political science-informed depiction of Supreme Court decision-making, the attitudinal account argues that justices decide cases on the basis of their ideological attitudes (i.e., personal policy preferences), and ruling reversals result from (1) composition or membership change; (2) policy position change – i.e., a change in the personal policy preferences of the justices; or (3) issue change – i.e., a change in the way the justices appreciate the issues raised by the “facts” of the case. The author tested the plausibility and/or significance of each of the three aforementioned attitude-centered accounts as explanations for the Mining Act ruling reversal. To test for composition change, the researcher analyzed the voting summaries for the January and December 2004 Mining Act rulings with focus placed on the votes of justices who either left or joined the Court in the period between the two Mining Act rulings. To test for issue change, the author conducted a qualitative content analysis of the “case facts” and “issues” that the justices were responding to in their January and December rulings and opinions on the Mining Act case. To test for policy position change, a cumulative scale of judicial votes in economic cases involving the validity of executive actions was constructed and analyzed. Cumulative scaling revealed the existence of attitudinal differences among members of the Supreme Court in 2004. It also suggested that, for the most part, the personal policy preferences of the justices remained stable. Among the three attitude-centered explanations, issue change was shown to be most significant as an explanation for the Mining Act ruling reversal. The general finding of the study is that the attitudinal perspective offers a plausible account of the reversal.
One Hundred Years of Faith: The Baltic States’ Contribution to International Justice
Authors: Satkauskas Rytis
Published: January 2020

One hundred years on from the establishment of the first World Court provides an excellent occasion to assess the evolution of International Justice and its role in setting new standards of inter-State behaviour. Faith in the rule of law and international justice in the institutionalised world order by Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia was based on the public mood in the aftermath of the First World War, as well as distinctly practical security interests. Early acceptance of the Court’s jurisdiction in turn contributed to the formation of international law with three cases and interpretation by the Court of numerous rules of international law.
A Century of the Baltic States’ Independence: Some Similarities and Differences with Bulgaria
Authors: Belova Gabriela , Marin Nikolay
Published: January 2020

The article scrutinizes the Baltic States and their century of independence which have been the focus of interest of various sciences. On the occasion of the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of the independence of the Baltic States – Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia – some parallels could be drawn with the historical, economic and political development of these countries and Bulgaria. These parallels are not only found in the political and legal period but are contained in different stages, which shows the interesting legal and political nature of the Baltic States and some of their common problems and events with the countries of Eastern Europe and, in particular, the example with Bulgaria. The article has also drawn attention to a significant problem that the three Baltic States and Bulgaria have to deal with, namely the demographic crisis. This problem is particularly important in the light of migratory pressures that the countries outlining the external borders of the European Union are facing and it involves systematic and long-term efforts.
Finland’s Continuation War (1941–1944): War of Aggression or Defence? War of Alliance or Separate War?
Authors: Hannikainen Lauri
Published: January 2020

In September 1939, after having included a secret protocol on spheres of influence in the so-called Molotov- Ribbentrop Pact, Germany and the Soviet Union invaded Poland and divided it between themselves. It was not long before the Soviet Union approached Finland by proposing exchanges of certain territories: ‘in our national interest we want to have from you certain territories and offer in exchange territories twice as large but in less crucial areas’. Finland, suspicious of Soviet motives, refused – the outcome was the Soviet war of aggression against Finland by the name of the Winter War in 1939–1940. The Soviet Union won this war and compelled Finland to cede several territories – about 10 per cent of Finland’s area.

After the Winter War, Finland sought protection from Germany against the Soviet Union and decided to rely on Germany. After Germany attacked the Soviet Union in June 1941, Finland joined the German war effort in the so-called Continuation War and reoccupied the territories lost in the Winter War. Finnish forces did not stop at the old border but occupied Eastern (Soviet) Karelia with a desire eventually to annex it. By that measure, Finland joined as Germany’s ally in its war of aggression against the Soviet Union in violation of international law. In their strong reliance on Germany, the Finnish leaders made some very questionable decisions without listening to warnings from Western States about possible negative consequences.

Germany lost its war and so did Finland, which barely avoided entire occupation by the Soviet Army and succeeded in September 1944 in concluding an armistice with the Soviet Union. Finland lost some more territories and was subjected to many obligations and restrictions in the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty, dictated by the Allies.

This article analyses, according to the criteria of international law, Finland’s policy shortly prior to and during the Continuation War, especially Finland’s secret dealings with Germany in the months prior to the German attack against the Soviet Union and Finland’s occupation of Eastern Karelia in the autumn of 1941. After Adolf Hitler declared that Germany was fighting against the Soviet Union together with Finland and Romania, was the Soviet Union entitled – prior to the Finnish attack – to resort to armed force in self-defence against Finland? And was Finland treated too harshly in the aftermath of World War ii? After all, its role as an ally of Germany had been rather limited.
Discriminatory matrix for the larvae of the European Thremma species (Trichoptera: Thremmatidae)
Authors: WARINGER JOHANN , GONZÁLEZ MARCOS A. , MALICKY HANS
Published: January 2020

This synoptic paper is intended to summarize and supplement the information available on the larvae of Thremma McLachlan 1876 in Europe. We present information on the morphology of the larvae and illustrate the most important diagnostic features. This information is used for the construction of a comprehensive discriminatory matrix for the four European species of family Thremmatidae Martynov 1935 known in the larval stage so far. In the context of this matrix, larvae can be easily diagnosed by the shape of mesonotal sclerites, foretrochantins, forefemora and ventral sclerites on abdominal segment I, by head coloration patterns, by case morphology, and by distribution. In addition, ecological characteristics and distributions of the European taxa are briefly discussed.
A taxonomic study of the genus Macromotettixoides (Tetrigidae, Metrodorinae) with descriptions of two new species and two newly discovered males
Authors: HAN YU-PENG , LI MIAO , MAO BEN-YONG
Published: January 2020

Fifteen species of Macromotettixoides are systematically researched in this paper. Two new species (M. tuberculata Mao, Li & Han, sp. n. and M. truncata Mao, Li & Han, sp. n.) and two newly discovered males (M. curvimarginus (Zheng & Xu) and M. longling Deng) are introduced with descriptions and illustrations. An updated identification key to all known species of the genus is given.
Pseudoelasticity and Shape Memory Effects on Deformation Recovery of Indented Titanium-Nickel Alloy Films
Authors: Ma X.-G. , Komvopoulos K.
Published: January 2020

The deformation behavior of shape-memory titanium-nickel (TiNi) alloy films indented by diamond tips of various nominal radius of curvature under different contact loads was investigated by nanoindentation. Pseudoelasticity and shape-memory effect (SME) strongly affected the deformation
recovery of the indented films. The effects of tip radius and maximum indentation load on the deformation recovery of austenitic and martensitic TiNi films are interpreted in terms of associated deformation mechanisms controlled by pseudoelasticity, SME, and dislocations. The results reveal
the important roles of pseudoelasticity and SME on the capacity of TiNi films to either fully annihilate or partially recover from deformation induced by nanoindentation, illustrating a high potential for applications requiring large reversible deformations.
Electrical Sensing and Discrimination of Different States of Myoglobin Through Solid-State Nanopore
Authors: Irshad Ali , Zhu Libo , Huma Bhatti , Asad Aziz , Liu Quanjun
Published: January 2020

Proteins are structurally dynamic macromolecules that exist in various conformations of similar energies. The function of protein usually depends upon its structural formation which is often induced by ligand binding. These conformational changes are of great interest in proteomics
and biochemistry. In this work, we extended our knowledge to effectively detect structural perturbations of Mb (Myoglobin) in the presence of OA (Oleic acid) by using a ∼20 nm (diameter) silicon-nitride (Si3N4) nanopore. This interaction can be either specific or
non-specific depending upon the concentration of OA in Mb solution. Results of nanopore relied on the succession of current blockages as characterized by their duration, amplitude and event's number. In order to detect the interaction, three kinds of experiments were performed under three
different OA/Mb ratios and various event readouts were obtained. First of all, we took the volume ratio of OA/Mb as 4:1 and found that values of dwell time (td
) and current blockage (ΔIb
) were similar to Mb (only) translocation. Secondly, giving an
increment in the volume ratio of OA/Mb to 10:1 resulted in a significant increase in dwell time (td
) and current blockage (ΔIb
) level. Furthermore, a dramatic decrease in amplitude of ionic current blockage (ΔIb
) and dwell time
(td
) was observed at the ratio 20:1 of OA/Mb which indicated that OA/Mb interaction can cause structural instability of myoglobin. This may also disturb charge distributions on amino acid residues which results in variation of above-mentioned parameters. This approach of
nanopore sensing can be extensively employed in screening FABPs (Fatty acid binding proteins) and protein conformational studies.
Structural Performance of Eccentric Ferrocement Reinforced Concrete Columns
Authors: Erfan Abeer M. , Ahmed Hossam H. , Mina Bishoy A. , El-Sayed Taha A.
Published: January 2020

This research proposed a method for producing reinforced composite concrete columns, reinforced with different types of steel wire meshes. The experimental program included casting and testing of nine square columns with dimensions of 200 mm × 200 mm × 1500 mm under eccentric
compression load, with an eccentricity equaling 25 mm from the column center in x direction. The experimental program specimens comprised of four designation series to make comparative study between conventionally reinforced concrete columns. Concrete columns reinforced with steel bars
and stirrups as control specimen and other groups were expanded steel mesh and welded steel mesh but the fourth group used modified and galvanized steel wire meshes of expanded and welded type. The main variables were type of reinforcing materials, number of layers and volume fraction of reinforcement.
The main objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of employing the new materials in reinforcing the composite concrete columns in enhancing the confinement of concrete column and resistance for eccentric loads. Results indicated that this methodology of concrete columns reinforcement can
be developed in high strength, crack resistance, high ductility and energy absorption properties. Moreover, Non-linear finite element analysis (NLFEA) was carried out to simulate the behaviour of the reinforced concrete columns under eccentric loads. The analytical model was agreed with experimental
results employing ANSYS-14.5 Software.
The Rapid Intensification and Eyewall Replacement Cycles of Hurricane Irma (2017)
Authors: Fischer Michael S. , Rogers Robert F. , Reasor Paul D.
Published: January 2020

The initiation of a rapid intensification (RI) event for a tropical cyclone (TC) at major hurricane intensity is a rare event in the North Atlantic basin. This study examined the environmental and vortex-scale processes related to such an RI event observed in Hurricane Irma (2017) using a combination of flight-level and airborne radar aircraft reconnaissance observations, microwave satellite observations, and model environmental analyses. The onset of RI was linked to an increase in sea surface temperatures and ocean heat content toward levels more commonly associated with North Atlantic RI episodes. Remarkably, Irma’s RI event comprised two rapidly evolving eyewall replacement cycle (ERC) episodes that each completed in less than 12 h. The two ERC events displayed different secondary eyewall formation (SEF) mechanisms and vortex evolutions. During the first SEF event, a secondary maximum in ascent and tangential wind was observed at the leading edge of a mesoscale descending inflow jet. During the ensuing ERC event, the primary eyewall weakened and ultimately collapsed, resulting in a brief period of weakening. The second SEF event displayed characteristics consistent with unbalanced boundary layer dynamics. Additionally, it is plausible that both SEF events were affected by the stagnation and axisymmeterization of outward-propagating vortex Rossby waves. During the second ERC event, the TC continued to rapidly intensify, which is a stark contrast to the ERC paradigm described in the literature. The differing ERC evolutions appear linked to the vortex response to changing environmental conditions. The results presented here underscore the utility of frequent aircraft reconnaissance observations for an improved understanding of TC dynamics.
Comprehensive evaluation of the fabric crease recovery property by the whole recovery process
Authors: Wang Lei , Gao Weidong
Published: January 2020

Current standard methods specify the recovery angle of a folded wrinkle in a controlled recovery period as the evaluation standard for the fabric crease recovery property. Nevertheless, there are limitations in the characterization of the whole recovery process by using the single recovery angle. We proposed a whole-process test method and comprehensive evaluation method for assessing the fabric crease recovery property. Firstly, a specimen was tested on the automatic fabric crease recovery testing device to obtain the “time-recovery angle” data. Then, the “time-average recovery angle” data was calculated by the recovery angle at the corresponding moment in the recovery period from repeated testing. The “time-average recovery angle” data was fitted into power function equation f( t) =  atb. Parameter a reflects the degree of initial recovery. Parameter b reveals the speed degree at which the sample recovery reaches stable status. The K value, the ratio of a to b, could be calculated. Finally, the [Formula: see text] value, the average of the K values of four folded ways, was used to evaluate the crease recovery property of the fabric. The experimental results demonstrate that the [Formula: see text] values have positive correlation with the recovery angle of the fifth minute in the recovery period ( r = 0.92). In addition, for fabrics with the similar recovery angle results obtained from the wrinkle recovery angle evaluation method, the proposed method could differentiate the property of the fabrics. Therefore, the evaluation method can accurately reflect the initial resilience and comprehensive crease recovery property of textile materials.
“And I Let It All Out”: Survivors’ Sibling Sexual Abuse Disclosures
Authors: Tener Dafna , Katz Carmit , Kaufmann Yael
Published: January 2020

There is consensus in child sexual abuse (CSA) literature with respect to the central role of the disclosure process. However, CSA disclosure is challenging for all children, those who have experienced intrafamilial abuse. In recent years, there has been growing research into sibling sexual abuse (SSA), which is a prevalent and severe, but also the least studied form of intrafamilial CSA. This study was designed to advance theory on SSA disclosure by examining the narratives of adults who have disclosed the abuse and discuss it with reference to the perceived role of disclosure recipients—including perpetrating siblings, parents, and professionals. In-depth interviews with 25 adults were conducted and analyzed thematically. The results highlighted the significance of disclosure for survivors, as well as the central roles played by significant others in the process, including the offending and nonoffending siblings, parents, and professionals. The discussion addresses the important role of the family system in the disclosure narratives. The conclusions point to the need of all actors taking part in the disclosure itself, as well as in the survivors’ lives postdisclosure, to become “better” disclosure recipients by acknowledging survivors’ needs. This in turn would also empower survivors to disclose their stories and cope with the potential familial and societal ramifications of their disclosure.