bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volume status and arterial blood pressures are associated with arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Erdan Alper , Ozkok Abdullah , Alpay Nadir , Akkaya Vakur , Yildiz Alaattin
Published: May 2018

Background:

Arterial stiffness is a strong predictor of mortality in hemodialysis patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate possible relations of arterial stiffness with volume status determined by bioimpedance analysis and aortic blood pressure parameters. Also, effects of a single hemodialysis session on these parameters were studied.

Methods:

A total of 75 hemodialysis patients (M/F: 43/32; mean age: 53 ± 17) were enrolled. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, and aortic pulse pressure were measured by applanation tonometry before and after hemodialysis. Extracellular fluid and total body fluid volumes were determined by bioimpedance analysis.

Results:

Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (9.30 ± 3.30 vs 7.59 ± 2.66 m/s, p < 0.001), augmentation index (24.52 ± 9.42 vs 20.28 ± 10.19, p < 0.001), and aortic pulse pressure (38 ± 14 vs 29 ± 8 mmHg, p < 0.001) significantly decreased after hemodialysis. Pre-dialysis carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was associated with age (r2 = 0.15, p = 0.01), total cholesterol (r2 = 0.06, p = 0.02), peripheral mean blood pressure (r2 = 0.10, p = 0.005), aortic-mean blood pressure (r2 = 0.06, p = 0.02), aortic pulse pressure (r2 = 0.14, p = 0.001), and extracellular fluid/total body fluid (r2 = 0.30, p < 0.0001). Pre-dialysis augmentation index was associated with total cholesterol (r2 = 0.06, p = 0,02), aortic-mean blood pressure (r2 = 0.16, p < 0.001), and aortic pulse pressure (r2 = 0.22, p < 0.001). Δcarotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was associated with Δaortic-mean blood pressure (r2 = 0.06, p = 0.02) and inversely correlated with baseline carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (r2 = 0.29, p < 0.001). Pre-dialysis Δaugmentation index was significantly associated with Δaortic-mean blood pressure (r2 = 0.09, p = 0.009) and Δaortic pulse pressure (r2 = 0.06, p = 0.03) and inversely associated with baseline augmentation index (r2 = 0.14, p = 0.001). In multiple linear regression analysis (adjusted R2 = 0.46, p < 0.001) to determine the factors predicting Log carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, extracellular fluid/total body fluid and peripheral mean blood pressure significantly predicted Log carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (p = 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively).

Conclusion:

Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, and aortic pulse pressure significantly decreased after hemodialysis. Arterial stiffness was associated with both peripheral and aortic blood pressure. Furthermore, reduction in arterial stiffness parameters was related to reduction in aortic blood pressure. Pre-dialysis carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was associated with volume status determined by bioimpedance analysis. Volume control may improve not only the aortic blood pressure measurements but also arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients.
Cardiac Autonomic Function and Psychological Characteristics of Heterosexual Female Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Physical Aggression
Authors: Brzozowski Artur , Gillespie Steven M. , Dixon Louise , Mitchell Ian J.
Published: May 2018

Intimate partner violence is predominantly viewed as a social problem of men’s violence against women. However, a growing evidence base suggests an equal prevalence rate for male and female perpetrated intimate partner physical aggression. Moreover, female perpetrated intimate partner violence is often assumed to be reactive, yet there is limited evidence to support this notion. In this article, we describe the results of two studies that investigated the prevalence of female perpetrated intimate partner physical aggression, and its correlates in heterosexual female university students. The relationships of personality traits, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability (a correlate of vagal activity) were compared between females who did and did not report having engaged in intimate partner physical aggression. In Study 1, we found that 30.9% of participants reported enacting intimate partner physical aggression during the preceding 12 months. This finding suggests that a considerable number of undergraduate females aggress against their intimate partners. Perpetrators, relative to nonperpetrators, scored higher on secondary psychopathic traits. In Study 2, female intimate partner violence was shown to be associated with low resting heart rate and high heart rate variability. Perpetrators, relative to nonperpetrators, scored higher on psychopathic traits that index emotional resilience and unempathic tendencies, and reported increased proactive and reactive aggression. This raises the possibility that some incidences of female intimate partner physical aggression represent proactive aggressive acts. These findings also support the frequently found association between low resting heart rate and aggression, but raise the prospect that the reported aggressive acts reflect high heart rate variability and strong parasympathetic nervous system activity.
High-performance all-aromatic liquid crystalline esteramide-based thermosets
Authors: Dai Yiheng , Bi Xiangyu , Dingemans Theo J , Guan Qingbao
Published: May 2018

We have synthesized and characterized a new family of nematic all-aromatic polyesteramide thermosets based on 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid (HNA), terephthalic acid (TA), and 4-acetamidophenol (AAP). In order to incorporate a high concentration of the amide-based monomer (AAP), the melt transition ( T K-N) and melt viscosity had to be lowered in order to maintain melt processable intermediates. Precursor thermoplastic reactive oligomers, end-capped with phenylethynyl functionalities, were prepared using standard melt condensation techniques with a target M n of 1000–9000 g mol−1. The reactive oligomers with 20–30 mol% AAP could easily be processed into films, and the films exhibit good tensile properties in terms of tensile strength (70–80 MPa) and elongation at break (7–10%). A glass transition of 191°C could be obtained when a 1000 g mol−1 oligomer (HNA/TA/AAP(20)–1 K) was thermally cross-linked. When the AAP concentration reaches 35 mol%, the rigidity of the backbone and the hydrogen bonding interactions are enhanced, which make HNA/TA/AAP(35) polymers difficult to process.
Less than 7 hours of sleep per night is associated with transitioning to systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Young K A , Munroe M E , Harley J B , Guthridge J M , Kamen D L , Gilkensen G S , Weisman M H , Karp D R , Wallace D J , James J A , Norris J M
Published: May 2018

Background

The role of sleep in the etiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has not been well studied. We examined whether sleep duration was associated with subsequent transitioning to SLE in individuals at risk for SLE.

Methods

Four hundred and thirty-six relatives of SLE patients who did not have SLE themselves at baseline were evaluated again an average of 6.3 (± 3.9) years later. Fifty-six individuals transitioned to SLE (≥ 4 cumulative American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria). Sleep duration, medication use and medical history were assessed by questionnaire; ACR criteria were confirmed by medical record review. Vitamin D was measured by ELISA. Generalized estimating equations, accounting for correlation within families, assessed associations between baseline sleep and the outcome of transitioning to SLE.

Results

Reporting sleeping less than 7 hours per night at baseline was more common in those who subsequently transitioned than those who did not transition to SLE (55% versus 32%, p = 0.0005; OR: 2.8, 95% CI 1.6–4.9). Those who transitioned to SLE were more likely to sleep less than 7 hours per night than those who did not transition to SLE adjusting for age, sex and race (OR: 2.8, 95% CI 1.6–5.1). This association remained after individual adjustment for conditions and early symptoms that could affect sleep, including prednisone use, vitamin D deficiency and number of ACR criteria (OR: 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–4.2).

Conclusion

Lack of sleep may be associated with transitioning to SLE, independent of early clinical manifestations of SLE that may influence sleep duration. Further evaluation of sleeping patterns and biomarkers in at-risk individuals is warranted.
Management Education in Turbulent Times
Authors: Anderson Lisa , Hibbert Paul , Mason Katy , Rivers Christine
Published: May 2018

This special section was initiated by members of the British Academy of Management’s Management Knowledge and Education project. Management Knowledge and Education is an academy-wide initiative, launched in 2014 to advance the creation and circulation of innovative and transformative research that deepens and broadens our understanding of management knowledge, knowing, education, and learning. For our members, in common with the authors of the Journal of Management Education, the sites of inquiry are varied, range from traditional classroom settings to collaborative organizational contexts for learning. Many of the innovations taking place in these varied contexts are responses to the turbulent and rapidly changing management environments. Our aim then is to support our community in striving to understand management learning and education however and wherever it happens in these turbulent times, and support responsive adaptation and innovation.
Vibration analysis for the development of resonant microbeam high-resolution vibrotactile haptic display
Authors: Wi Daehan , Sodemann Angela
Published: May 2018

One type of assistive device for the blind has attempted to convert visual information into information that can be perceived through another sense, such as touch or hearing. A vibrotactile haptic display assistive device consists of an array of vibrating elements placed against the skin, allowing the blind individual to receive visual information through touch. However, these approaches have two significant technical challenges: large vibration element size and the number of microcontroller pins required for vibration control, both causing excessively low resolution of the device. Here, we propose and investigate a type of high-resolution vibrotactile haptic display which overcomes these challenges by utilizing a ‘microbeam’ as the vibrating element. These microbeams can then be actuated using only one microcontroller pin connected to a speaker or surface transducer. We propose that this approach could solve the low-resolution problem currently present in all haptic displays. In this paper, we present the results of an investigation into the manufacturability of such a device, simulation of the vibrational characteristics, and prototyping and experimental validation of the device concept.
Person-Centered Methodologies in the Organizational Sciences
Authors: Morin Alexandre J. S. , Bujacz Aleksandra , Gagné Marylène
Published: May 2018

The 2011 Organizational Research Methods Feature Topic on latent class procedures has helped to establish person-centered analyses as a method of choice in the organizational sciences. This establishment has contributed to the generation of substantive-methodological synergies leading to a better understanding of a variety of organizational phenomena and to an improvement in research methodologies. The present Feature Topic aims to provide a user-friendly introduction to these new methodological developments for applied organizational researchers. Organized around a presentation of the typological, prototypical, and methodologically exploratory nature of person-centered analyses, this introductory article introduces seven contributions aiming to: (a) clarify the meaning, advantages, and applications of person-centered analyses; (b) illustrate emerging prototypical and longitudinal cluster analytic approaches; (c) introduce researchers to multilevel person-centered analyses as well as to auxiliary approaches that will drastically increase the scope of application of these methods; and (d) describe the application of these methods for confirmatory purposes.
Sex and the Devil: Homosexuality, Satanism, and Moral Panic in Late Apartheid South Africa
Authors: Falkof Nicky
Published: May 2018

This article discusses the discursive and narrative intersections between two moral panics that appeared in the white South African press in the last years of apartheid: the first around the claimed danger posed by white male homosexuals, the second around the alleged incursion of a criminal cult of white Satanists. This connection was sometimes implicit, when the rhetoric attached to one was repeated with reference to the other, and sometimes explicit, when journalists and moral entrepreneurs conflated the two in public dialogue. Both Satanists and gay white men were characterized as indulging in abnormal practices that were dangerous to the health of the nation, using a long-standing colonial metaphor of sanitation and hygiene. I argue that fears of homosexuality and beliefs in Satanism operated as social control measures for disciplining potentially unruly groups whose sexual or personal practices were not admissible within apartheid’s injunctions on homogenous conformity among whites. The connection between homosexuality and Satanism, like the connection between homosexuality and communism, served to pathologize whites whose disobedient bodies and beliefs were considered treacherous.
The compressive properties and strengthening mechanism of the middle-trabecular beetle elytron plate
Authors: Chen Jinxiang , Yu Xindi , Xu Mengye , Okabe Yoji , Zhang Xiaoming , Tuo Wanyong
Published: May 2018

For the development of new types of lightweight sandwich structures, the compressive properties and strengthening mechanism of the middle-trabecular beetle elytron plate were investigated for various values of η (the ratio of the trabecular radius to the honeycomb wall length). The results are as follows: (1) When η = 0.1, the increases in the compressive strength and standard energy absorption capacity of the middle-trabecular beetle elytron plate compared with the honeycomb plate exceed those of the end-trabecular beetle elytron plate; with an increase to η = 0.15, the compressive strength remains nearly the same, the energy absorption capacity undergoes a significant further increase, and the trabeculae exhibit Φ-type failure. (2) The strengthening mechanism that gives rise to the compressive properties of the middle-trabecular beetle elytron plate is proposed as follows: the trabeculae are located at the center of the honeycomb walls, where the maximum deformations would otherwise occur; they constrain the deformation of the honeycomb walls; and the number of trabeculae in the middle-trabecular beetle elytron plate also exceeds that in the end-trabecular beetle elytron plate. (3) Middle-trabecular beetle elytron plates have the advantage of facile manufacturing, which will establish a basis for promoting the application of beetle elytron plates.
Distribution of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and the estimated 10-year risk of acute myocardial infarction or cerebral stroke in Sami and non-Sami populations: The SAMINOR 2 Clinical Survey
Authors: Siri Susanna R.A. , Braaten Tonje , Jacobsen Bjarne K. , Melhus Marita , Eliassen Bent-Martin
Published: May 2018

Objective: This study aimed to assess and compare the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors and the estimated 10-year risk of fatal or non-fatal acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or cerebral stroke (CS) among the Sami and non-Sami populations of Northern Norway. Methods: The SAMINOR 2 Clinical Survey is a cross-sectional survey conducted in 10 municipalities in the counties of Finnmark, Troms and Nordland in rural Northern Norway in 2012–2014. All inhabitants aged 40–79 years were invited to participate, and 6004 (48.2%) accepted. The NORRISK 2 model was used to estimate the 10-year risk of fatal or non-fatal AMI or CS. Sex and age were included in the model, as well as the following risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD): serum total cholesterol, serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, smoking habits and anti-hypertensive treatment. Results: Only minor ethnic differences were observed between Sami and non-Sami populations in a number of individual risk factors for CVDs. Overall, the NORRISK 2 model revealed no ethnic differences in the 10-year risk of AMI or CS. Conclusions:There were no differences in 10-year risk of AMI or CS between the Sami and non-Sami populations in 10 selected municipalities in Northern Norway.
Frequent attenders in occupational health primary care: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Reho Tiia T.M. , Atkins Salla A. , Talola Nina , Viljamaa Mervi , Sumanen Markku P.T. , Uitti Jukka
Published: May 2018

Aims: This study characterizes frequent attenders in primary care provided by occupational health services (OHS) in Finland. Methods: This is a nationwide cross-sectional study using medical record data from an OHS provider in 2015. Frequent attenders were defined as persons who were within the top decile of annual visits to healthcare professionals (frequent attender 10%, FA10) at any of the OHS’s 37 stations. FA10s within this study consulted the OHS primary care unit eight or more times during 2015. We used logistic regression to analyse factors associated with frequent attendance in OHS primary care. The independent variables were age, gender, employer size and industry, health professionals visited and diagnoses given during visits to the OHS. The dependent variable was belonging to the FA10 group. Results: Altogether 31,960 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The FA10 group included 3617 patients, who conducted 36% of visits to healthcare professionals. The findings indicate that working within the manufacturing industry, health and social services, or public administration, and being employed in medium or large companies, are associated with frequent attendance. Frequent attendance was also associated with being female, diagnoses of the musculoskeletal system, or mental and behavioral disorders. In particular, depressive episodes and anxiety were associated with FA10s. Conclusions:This research characterized FA10 clients at a Finnish OHS. Illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and mental and behavioral disorders were accentuated among FA10s. The stability of the FA10 group, along with their sickness absences and work disabilities, should be investigated further.
Against the odds? – A study of educational attainment and labour market position of the second-generation ethnic minority members in the UK
Authors: Li Yaojun
Published: May 2018

Much research in the UK has shown a close relationship between family position and educational attainment. Yet, this association seems to apply to whites rather than to children from ethnic minority backgrounds who are usually found to outperform whites in spite of their poorer family situation. The classical theories do not give an adequate account of this apparent mismatch as they were designed for the general population. I propose a thesis of ‘reinvigorated ambition’ to try to explain the second-generation drive for success. Drawing data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study, I show that multiple disadvantages faced by ethnic minorities in the labour market give pervasive signals to the second generation that they have to aim higher and work harder in order not to fall too low in their life trajectory. The educational success of children from ethnic minority heritages can thus be seen as a determined effort to shield off cumulative discrimination in the labour market and in wider society.
Phased array transformation methods to estimate non-compact jet noise source characteristics
Authors: Tester Brian J , Glegg Stewart
Published: May 2018

This paper reviews the basis of the beamformer and polar correlation phased array methods and shows that these provide different information about axially distributed, non-compact noise sources, which nevertheless satisfy a simple integral relationship. The conventional beamformer method provides an image of the source power or auto spectral density, whereas the polar correlation method yields a ‘source strength’ which is an image of the axial wavenumber transform of the source cross-spectral density. However, the beamformer method can be generalised to provide an image of the source cross-spectral density. At first sight, the generalised beamformer method is therefore more useful for diagnostic purposes but the results presented here suggest that the combined effects of resolution and source convection place serious limitations on the source cross-spectral density image information. For the same reasons, although the source power or auto spectral density axial shape can be obtained with the conventional beamformer method, it cannot yield its absolute level for this type of source. The polar correlation method yields a source strength axial distribution at each ‘reference’ microphone, which when integrated over the source length, yields the far-field power or auto spectral density at that reference microphone. Therefore, the polar correlation source strength is arguably the more relevant quantity to measure when determining what proportion of the sound at a particular microphone position comes from each region of the jet axis, as a function of radiation angle.
Exploration of New Complexity Metrics for Curriculum-Based Measures of Writing
Authors: Wagner Kyle , Smith Alex , Allen Abigail , McMaster Kristen , Poch Apryl , Lembke Erica
Published: May 2018

Researchers and practitioners have questioned whether scoring procedures used with curriculum-based measures of writing (CBM-W) capture growth in complexity of writing. We analyzed data from six independent samples to examine two potential scoring metrics for picture word CBM-W (PW), a sentence-level CBM task. Correct word sequences per response (CWSR) and words written per response (WWR) were compared with the current standard metric of correct word sequences (CWS). Linear regression analyses indicated that CWSR predicted scores on standardized norm-referenced criterion measures in more samples than did WWR or CWS. Future studies should explore the capacity of CWSR and WWR to show growth over time, stability, diagnostic accuracy, and utility for instructional decision making.
Latina Baccalaureate Attainment: A Mixed Methods Case Study of a TRIO Intervention
Authors: Perez David
Published: May 2018

Research demonstrates that Latinas are one of the most at-risk female demographics in higher education and have the lowest baccalaureate attainment rate of all female groups, especially at Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). This case study of a TRIO intervention found that TRIO counselors’ consideration of life circumstances in planning academic schedules, brokering relationships with faculty and staff, promotion of academic accountability, and close personal relationships with Latina advisees boost Latina baccalaureate attainment. Findings demonstrate implications for enhancing retention rates and further research in Hispanic education attainment.
Downregulation of flt-1 and HIF-1α Gene Expression by Some Antioxidants in Rats Under Sodium Nitrite–Induced Hypoxic Stress
Authors: Fadda Laila Mohamed , Attia Hala A. , Al-Rasheed Nouf Mohamed , Ali Hanaa Mahmoud , Al-Rasheed Nawal Mohamed
Published: May 2018

This study assessed the effect of L-arginine (L-argin), carnosine (carno), or their combination in the amelioration of certain biochemical indices induced in the liver of hypoxic rats. Hypoxia was induced via sodium nitrite (S.nit) injection at a dose of 75 mg/kg. Rats were administered L-argin (250 mg/kg) or carno (250 mg/kg), either alone or in combination, 24 hours and 1 hour prior to S.nit intoxication. Hypoxia significantly elevated serum alanine aminotransferase, in addition to a significant upregulation of hepatic heat shock protein 70 with concurrent reduction in the level of vascular endothelial growth factor. Moreover, hepatic vascular endothelial growth factor 1 (flt-1), hypoxia inducible factor-1α gene expression, and cytochrome P450 levels were elevated, compared with the normoxic group. The antioxidants, administered either alone or in combination, markedly downregulated all of the previously mentioned biomarkers, compared to the hypoxic rats. Histopathological examination revealed hepatocellular degeneration and nuclear pyknosis, in addition to inflammatory cellular infiltration in the hypoxic rats, whereas treatment with the studied antioxidants improved the liver architecture. The present data revealed the efficacy of L-argin and carno in ameliorating the hepatic damage induced via angiogenic markers in response to hypoxia, the combination regimen showing the superior effect.
HCN2 contributes to oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain through activation of the CaMKII/CREB cascade in spinal neurons
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Zhang Lidong , Jin Li , Tan Yuanhui , Li Weiyan , Tang Jun
Published: May 2018

Emerging evidence showed that hyperpolarization-activated cation channels (HCN) participate in the development of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. However, the role of HCN2 in oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain remains unknown. Here, we found that HCN2 expression was upregulated in a rat model of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain. Intrathecal injection of ZD7288, an HCN specific inhibitor, decreased the HCN2 level, as well as weakened the neuropathic pain behaviors compared to naive rats. Besides, mechanistic studies revealed that the expression of the spinal N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 2B was increased after oxaliplatin administration and was reduced by ZD7288 administration. The nociceptive behaviors were reversed by NR2B antagonist Ro 25–6981 in HCN2-overexpression rats. Furthermore, the underlying cellular mechanism demonstrated that ZD7288 administration restrained the enhanced activation of the neuronal calcium–calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein cascade after oxaliplatin administration. Moreover, pretreatment of CaMKII inhibitor KN-93 suppressed the nociceptive behaviors, as well as NR2B upregulation induced by overexpression of HCN2. In a word, HCN2 is conducive to oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain by activating the neuronal CaMKII/CREB cascade.
The accessory Simon effect within and across visual dimensions
Authors: Magen Hagit
Published: May 2018

The Dimension-Action model maintains that response selection in the visual system is modular, such that response selection based on a target’s feature occurs within modules. This study suggests that response selection processes based on a target’s spatial location occur within modules as well, where spatial locations are coded along with the feature information. From this perspective, the typical Simon effect, in which interference occurs between a target’s feature and its spatial location, occurs within modules. This study explored whether the unique characteristic of the spatial Simon, namely, its reduction with increased reaction time is typical of spatial intra-dimension but not of spatial cross-dimension Simon effects, using the accessory Simon task. Experiment 1 demonstrated that intra-dimension Simon effects were reduced with increased reaction time, a reduction that was modulated by the task relevance of the distractor. In contrast, cross-dimension accessory Simon effects were positive and increased with reaction time. Experiment 2 demonstrated that intra-dimension Simon effects were not reduced when space was conveyed symbolically by arrows. Overall, the study suggests that interference in the accessory Simon task is influenced not only by the nature of the irrelevant spatial information but also by the modular locus of the targets and distractors.
Suture constructs for rehabilitation using early active motion after tendon transfer surgery
Authors: Fitzgerald Michael G. , Hammond Max A. , Yang Patrick W. , Merrell Gregory A.
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to better define an ideal tendon transfer suture construct to allow for early active range of motion. A side-to-side tendon construct was used to test suture technique (cross stich vs. Krackow stitch), number of suture throws, and calibre of suture. A minimum load to failure of 100 N was used to comfortably allow early motion while minimizing rupture risk. All constructs tested, except the 4-0 Krackow construct, were strong enough to withstand 100 N of load. The choice of suture should be based on surgeon preference, patient compliance, and specific surgery, and 3-0 non-absorbable suture may be more suitable for tendon transfers from a yield force standpoint.
Not only stem cells, but also mature cells, particularly neuroendocrine cells, may develop into tumours: time for a paradigm shift
Authors: Waldum Helge L. , Öberg Kjell , Sørdal Øystein F. , Sandvik Arne K. , Gustafsson Bjørn I. , Mjønes Patricia , Fossmark Reidar
Published: May 2018

Stem cells are considered the origin of neoplasms in general, and malignant tumours in particular, and the stage at which the stem cells stop their differentiation determines the degree of malignancy. However, there is increasing evidence supporting an alternative paradigm. Tumours may develop by dedifferentiation from mature cells able to proliferate. Studies of gastric carcinogenesis demonstrate that mature neuroendocrine (NE) cells upon long-term overstimulation may develop through stages of hyperplasia, dysplasia, and rather benign tumours, into highly malignant carcinomas. Dedifferentiation of cells may change the histological appearance and impede the identification of the cellular origin, as seen with gastric carcinomas, which in many cases are dedifferentiated neuroendocrine tumours. Finding the cell of origin is important to identify risk factors for cancer, prevent tumour development, and tailor treatment. In the present review, we focus not only on gastric tumours, but also evaluate the role of neuroendocrine cells in tumourigenesis in two other foregut-derived organs, the lungs and the pancreas, as well as in the midgut-derived small intestine.
The policy research of preliminary feasibility study for the government R&D innovation strategy
Authors: Yoon Donghun
Published: May 2018

The government conducts feasibility studies as a way of determining allocated amounts in the government budget. It rationally adjusts the priorities of policymakers regarding new projects that will receive large budgets in the process of budgeting. In this article, efficient improvement plans and policies are proposed through research on preliminary feasibility studies for the government research and development (R&D) innovation strategy. First, the concept of a preliminary feasibility study and its methods are presented and discussed. A questionnaire survey was conducted on professional groups for the improvement of preliminary feasibility studies. The survey results were then subjected to influence factor analysis, and the results were used for research on the preliminary feasibility study improvement for the government R&D innovation strategy. These findings are expected to significantly contribute to improving the government’s public investment and science and technology policies.
Miller Fisher Syndrome Associated With Immunotherapy for Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Baird-Gunning Jonathan J. D. , Weerasinghe Dinushi , Silsby Matthew , Gawarikar Yash , Carlino Matteo S. , Smith Jessica L. , Vucic Steve
Published: May 2018

Immunotherapy is a treatment strategy that has demonstrated survival benefit for metastatic melanoma. Ipilimumab and nivolumab are examples of immunotherapy, in which monoclonal antibodies antagonize cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 and programmed death-ligand 1 receptors, respectively, resulting in upregulation of the host immune response to cancer cells. There is increasing recognition of immune-mediated adverse events associated with immune therapies in patients with cancer. We present a case report of a patient who developed Miller Fisher syndrome associated with these therapies for metastatic melanoma along with a discussion of its management.
Why Latino Youth (Don’t) Call Police
Authors: Vargas Robert , Scrivener Lee
Published: May 2018

Latinos have been remarkably absent from research on the degree to which citizens notify police about violent crimes. This article takes a few small steps toward filling this knowledge gap through a case study of Mexican American youth in Little Village, the largest Mexican neighborhood in the Midwest. We ask: Why do some Latino youth notify police about violent crimes more than others? Using a unique survey data set of neighborhood youth ( N = 292), we find that (1) the majority of youth in the sample do, in fact, notify police about violent crimes and (2) logistic regression models reveal the importance of social ties with gang members, negative past encounters with police, and immigration status as significant correlates of willingness to notify police about violent crimes. We conclude by discussing implications for research on Latino police notification and policy efforts to improve Latino community–police relations.
Media Influence on Public Policy in Kenya: The Case of Illicit Brew Consumption
Authors: Mwangi Christine
Published: May 2018

The media plays a major role in public life, influencing citizens’ focus of attention and providing many of the facts and opinions that shape perspectives on topics of the day. Studies that analyze media influences on policy making have had mixed results on whether the media does actually influence public policy. This case study analyzes the role of the media in Kenya in influencing public policy in relation to illegal brew sale and consumption. The study seeks to understand media coverage mechanisms that led to government actions on an issue. This was done through content analysis of the coverage in two leading daily newspapers over a period of 10 years (2005-2015). The analysis found that intense, congruent, and incident-driven media coverage had influence on government action and consequently public policy on the issue. The findings also found weaknesses in media reporting. The media was very good at telling the politicians what was happening and what to talk about, but they were less able to tell the politicians what to do, which compromised the watchdog role of the media in Kenya. These findings can also be useful for advocacy groups and the public on the ways to engage the media to influence policy makers’ decisions.
Change in quality of malnutrition surveys between 1986 and 2015
Authors: Grellety Emmanuel , Golden Michael H.
Published: May 2018

Background

Representative surveys collecting weight, height and MUAC are used to estimate the prevalence of acute malnutrition. The results are then used to assess the scale of malnutrition in a population and type of nutritional intervention required. There have been changes in methodology over recent decades; the objective of this study was to determine if these have resulted in higher quality surveys.

Methods

In order to examine the change in reliability of such surveys we have analysed the statistical distributions of the derived anthropometric parameters from 1843 surveys conducted by 19 agencies between 1986 and 2015.

Results

With the introduction of standardised guidelines and software by 2003 and their more general application from 2007 the mean standard deviation, kurtosis and skewness of the parameters used to assess nutritional status have each moved to now approximate the distribution of the WHO standards when the exclusion of outliers from analysis is based upon SMART flagging procedure. Where WHO flags, that only exclude data incompatible with life, are used the quality of anthropometric surveys has improved and the results now approach those seen with SMART flags and the WHO standards distribution. Agencies vary in their uptake and adherence to standard guidelines. Those agencies that fully implement the guidelines achieve the most consistently reliable results.

Conclusions

Standard methods should be universally used to produce reliable data and tests of data quality and SMART type flagging procedures should be applied and reported to ensure that the data are credible and therefore inform appropriate intervention. Use of SMART guidelines has coincided with reliable anthropometric data since 2007.
Schools warn of more cuts to come as budget pressures bite
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2018

Schools are cutting back on CPD, staffing, curriculum, ICT, enrichment, maintenance and more in a bid to make ends meet
Pre and over-learning
Authors: Sobel Daniel
Published: May 2018

The one teaching intervention that could most benefit a range of students, including EAL and SEN, is – according to Daniel Sobel – the use of pre-learning and over-learning. He discusses how these concepts can be introduced
When revision can be bad for you
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2018

At exam time, the negative impact of over-studying cannot be over-estimated. Karen Sullivan offers some words of caution to revising students…
The influence of the mobile phone
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2018

SmartPhones are changing the cultural influences on children's development. In a new six-part series, Dr Stephanie Thornton considers the implications for education and society
The mark of success: Part 4
Authors: Bromley Matt
Published: May 2018

In part four of his seven-part series on effective feedback techniques and practices, Matt Bromley continues his research review and focuses on the three questions and four levels of effective feedback
ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF AGASTACHE AURANTIACA ESSENTIAL OILS
Authors: Коваленко (Kovalenko) Наталья (Natal'ja) Александровна (Aleksandrovna) , Супиченко (Supichenko) Галина (Galina) Николаевна (Nikolaevna) , Ахрамович (Ahramovich) Татьяна (Tat'jana) Игоревна (Igorevna) , Шутова (Shutova) Анна (Anna) Геннадьевна (Gennad'evna) , Леонтьев (Leontiev) Виктор (Viktor) Николаевич (Nikolaevich)
Published: May 2018

The essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation method from plants of three varieties Agastache aurantiaca, cultivated on the Republic of Belarus were investigated. Some morphobiometric parameters of plants 'Tango', 'Apricot Sprite' and 'Fragrant Delight' and oil yields were determined. Using the technique of gas-liquid chromatography essential oil components were identified and determined. The main components of the essential oil from 'Tango' and 'Fragrant Delight' plants were menton (~ 53 and ~ 65 v/v % respectively) and pulegon (~ 36 and ~ 25 v/v % respectively). The samples of 'Apricot' Sprite' essential oil were rich in isomentone (~ 46 v/v %) and pulegon (~ 41 v/v %). All tested essential oils contained (+)-menton and (+)-pulegon enantiomeric forms only. The antibacterial activity of dimethylsulfoxide and ethanolic essential oil solutions against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella alony, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium sp., Escherichia coli Hfr H, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was proved. Ethanol solutions of essential oils at the concentrations 0.001–0.1 v/v % had significant bactericidal activity. A correlation between the composition of the essential oil and their antibacterial properties was established.
THE CONTENTS OF SOME GROUPS OF COMPOUNDS IN THE LEAVES AND RHIZOMES OF IRIS HYBRIDA HORT. SORT CORONATION
Authors: Седельникова (Sedel'nikova) Людмила (Ljudmila) Леонидовна (Leonidovna) , Кукушкина (Kukushkina) Татьяна (Tat'jana) Абдулахиловна (Abdulahilovna)
Published: May 2018

The paper presents comparative data on the content of biologically active in the vegetative organs of Iris hybrida cultivar Coronation. First described the results of a study of the contents of the spare substances (sugar, starch), saponins, ascorbic acid, pectin (pectin, protopectin), phenolic compounds (catechins, flavonols) in leaves and rhizomes of plants of the variety Coronation. The quantitative content of the main groups of substances in underground and aboveground organs during the growing season, flowering and fruiting. Found that the presence of ascorbic acid in the leaves of Iris hybrida varieties of Coronation higher than in the rhizomes in 10–24 times during the growing season, 5.4–9 times the period of flowering, 2.5 to 6.3 times in the period of fruiting. The pectin content was 2–8 times less than protopectin in leaves and rhizomes of plants. Catechins differed in minor content (0.014–0.48%). Saponins in the leaves (21.86–30.27%) and rhizomes (14.86–30.27%) showed high content in the period of regrowth and flowering in cool-moist 2013–14 Sugars in the leaves found in 5–14 times more than the rhizomes during the period of fruiting. The pre-winter amount of starch in the rhizomes were relatively stable and had high rates from 17.5 to 28.3% in all years of observations. The identified variability is biologically active and spare substances in the vegetative organs of Iris hybrida varieties of Coronation in connection with seasonal development.
An investigation of university students’ family evaluations, loneliness and hopelessness
Üniversite öğrencilerinin ailelerini değerlendirme, yalnızlık ve umutsuzluklarının incelenmesi
Authors: Sezer Özcan
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study is to reveal the power of the family environment, the loneliness and despair experienced by university students.Participants in the survey are students who continue to the Inönü University Faculty of Education.The study was conducted with a total of 833 students, 487 female and 346 male.The Family Assessment Scale, Loneliness Scale and Hopelessness Scale were used to collect the research data. Pearson Moments Multiplication Correlation Coefficient and Multiple Linear Regression Analysis were used in the analysis of the data in the study.According to the findings obtained, there was no significant difference in the loneliness level of the students compared to the genders but it was found that the hopelessness levels of the male students were significantly higher than the female students. In the students, the role and behavioral control of family environments predicted loneliness in a meaningful level;problem-solving, communication, emotional response, required attention, and general functions are not predicter of them. In addition, problem solving, roles and general functions in students lead to a meaningful level of hopelessness; communication, emotional response, necessary attention and behavioral control are not sought at a meaningful level. Extended English summary is in the end of Full Text PDF (TURKISH) file.  ÖzetBu çalışmanın amacı üniversite öğrencilerinin geldiği aile ortamlarının, yaşadığı yalnızlık ve umutsuzluğunu yordama gücünü ortaya koymaktır. Araştırmaya katılanlar İnönü Üniversitesi Eğitim Fakültesine devam eden öğrencilerdir. Araştırma 487’si kız, 346’sı erkek olmak üzere toplam 833 öğrenci ile yürütülmüştür. Araştırma verilerini toplamak için Aile Değerlendirme Ölçeği, Yalnızlık Ölçeği ve Umutsuzluk Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Araştırmada verilerin analizinde Pearson Momentler Çarpımı Korelasyon Katsayısı ve Çoklu Doğrusal Regresyon Analizi kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen bulgulara göre öğrencilerin yalnızlık düzeylerinde cinsiyetlerine göre anlamlı bir fark olmadığı, ancak erkek öğrencilerin umutsuzluk düzeylerinin kız öğrencilere göre anlamlı düzeyde daha yüksek olduğu görülmüştür. Öğrencilerde aile ortamları ile ilgili roller ve davranış kontrolü yalnızlığı anlamlı bir düzede yordarken; problem çözme, iletişim, duygusal tepki verebilme, gereken ilgiyi gösterme ve genel işlevler anlamlı düzeyde yordamamaktadır. Ayrıca öğrencilerde problem çözme, roller ve genel işlevler umutsuzluğu anlamlı bir düzeyde yordarken; iletişim, duygusal tepki verebilme, gereken ilgiyi gösterme ve davranış kontrolü umutsuzluğu anlamlı bir düzeyde yordamamaktadır.
Análise da eficiência de um filtro de pedra porosa desenvolvido para o tratamento preliminar de esgoto doméstico
Authors: Albuquerque Tatiana Máximo Almeida , Sousa Íkaro Damião Hora , Almeida Ítalo Rocha , Souza Thiers Pereira , Teixeira Laize Eloy , Souza Ana Katharine Oliveira , Santana Idália Ribeiro
Published: May 2018

Frente à necessidade de uso racional dos recursos hídricos conforme preconizado na Lei 9433/97, principalmente na região nordeste do Brasil, cuja disponibilidade hídrica é pequena devido à climatologia local, às demandas, além do mau uso dos recursos hídricos que são utilizados como meio de diluição de esgotos, como é o caso de muitos rios das bacias do estado de Sergipe, observa-se que a adoção de medidas que gerencie aumento de oferta e gerenciamento de demanda é essencial. Nesta pesquisa buscou-se analisar a eficiência do uso de uma pedra porosa de filtro, à base de cal, para tratamento preliminar de esgotos domésticos que serão direcionados para fins não potáveis, auxiliando assim na redução de poluentes contidos nos esgotos antes de serem lançados in natura. A análise desta eficiência foi realizada através de testes físico-químicos como: DBO5, DQO, turbidez, cor, sólidos gerais e em suspensão, cloretos, salinidade, nitratos, e entre outros relacionados à qualidade da água, baseados na Resolução 357/05 do Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente - CONAMA. O tratamento com o filtro de pedra porosa criado apresentou baixo custo, fácil produção e utilização, além de ser bastante eficaz no tratamento preliminar do esgoto.
Saneamento básico e seus impactos na mortalidade infantil e no desenvolvimento econômico da região Nordeste
Authors: Andrade Silva Valéria , Esperidião Fernanda
Published: May 2018

O saneamento básico é um fator de relevância para a saúde e para as questões socioeconômicas. Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de analisar os impactos do saneamento básico sobre a mortalidade infantil e o desenvolvimento econômico dos estados do Nordeste. Para tanto, foram estudados os serviços de abastecimento de água e esgotamento sanitário, como também a mortalidade infantil e algumas variáveis que refletem as questões socioeconômicas da região Nordeste no período de 1991, 2000 e 2010. Os dados foram coletados do IPEADATA e do PNUD. Os resultados foram obtidos a partir da análise descritiva, estatística, da matriz de correlação e dos gráficos de dispersão gerados pelo software STATA 12. Conclui-se que investimentos em abastecimento de água e esgotamento sanitário podem reduzir tanto a mortalidade infantil quanto as iniquidades sociais.
Geoquímica das águas do reservatório Poção da Ribeira, Agreste Central de Sergipe
Authors: Oliveira Santos Carlos Eduardo
Published: May 2018

Nesse trabalho foi avaliada a qualidade da água do reservatório Poção da Ribeira, em relação à dominância iônica e suas características para uso na irrigação. O reservatório foi construído pelo governo do estado de Sergipe, com o objetivo de fornecer água ao perímetro irrigado Poção da Ribeira e entrou em operação no ano de 1987. Atualmente, também utilizado para a piscicultura e abastecimento humano, após tratamento. Foi elaborado um plano de coleta de amostras de água superficial, levando-se em consideração a distribuição das chuvas para a região (períodos secos e chuvosos), totalizando sete campanhas amostrais distribuídas nos anos de 2013, 2014 e 2015, sendo uma amostra de água para cada campanha. Em cada amostra foram analisados os seguintes parâmetros: condutividade elétrica, sódio, potássio, cálcio, magnésio, cloreto, sulfato e bicarbonato. Para a avaliação da dominância iônica foi utilizada a técnica de balanço iônico, realizada através da ferramenta geoquímica gráfica denominada diagrama de Piper. A característica da qualidade para o uso na irrigação foi verificada utilizando-se a metodologia proposta por Richards, por meio do diagrama de Wilcox. Nos períodos chuvosos as águas foram classificadas, predominantemente, como mistas/cloretadas e as estações secas como sódicas/cloretadas, demonstrando a influência das precipitações na composição química das águas. Quanto ao uso para irrigação, a avaliação revelou baixo risco de sodicidade e risco médio de salinização.