bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What historiography can tell us about evidence-based medicine and policy: A response to Pawson’s ‘The Realist Foundations of Evidence-based Medicine’
Authors: Kaehne Axel
Published: June 2018

In the battle between experimental study designs and realist approaches, Ray Pawson has fired the next shot. This time evidence based medicine is in his aim. He argues that evidence based medicine is becoming more appreciative of specific circumstances of interventions and hence medical research may be approximating realist evaluation’s approach. He illustrates his argument with the history of cancer where the disease increasingly looks like it is playing ‘cat and mouse’ with researchers. In the paper I try to disentangle the epistemological and methodological dimensions of Pawson’s claim. I argue that, what may look similar on a narrative level, may not be consequential for the different types of epistemologies that sustain medical and policy impact research.
Separated by common methods? Researchers and journalists doing expertise
Authors: Nikunen Minna , Korvajärvi Päivi , Koivunen Tuija
Published: June 2018

In this article, we address emerging tensions between researchers and journalists in our research project on formations of new divisions among young adults in Finland. We focus on interviewing as a method of data gathering, and on framing as a method of presenting research results. Writing from the point of view of academic researchers, our analysis shows that journalists’ and researchers’ ways of doing expertise, such as techniques for asking questions, reflections on interview sensitivities, anticipated end products or the conceptual framing of the collected data, differ from each other. At the conclusion of our analysis, we reflect on the affectivity of expert work and cooperation, and on the role of affects in bringing the moral orders of different forms of expertise to the surface.
Identifying dynamical time series model parameters from equilibrium samples, with application to gene regulatory networks
Authors: Young William Chad , Yeung Ka Yee , Raftery Adrian E
Published: June 2018

Gene regulatory network reconstruction is an essential task of genomics in order to further our understanding of how genes interact dynamically with each other. The most readily available data, however, are from steady-state observations. These data are not as informative about the relational dynamics between genes as knockout or over-expression experiments, which attempt to control the expression of individual genes. We develop a new framework for network inference using samples from the equilibrium distribution of a vector autoregressive (VAR) time-series model which can be applied to steady-state gene expression data. We explore the theoretical aspects of our method and apply the method to synthetic gene expression data generated using GeneNetWeaver.
Factors associated with non-participation in and dropout from cardiac rehabilitation programmes: a systematic review of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Resurrección Davinia Maria , Moreno-Peral Patricia , Gómez-Herranz Marta , Rubio-Valera Maria , Pastor Luis , Caldas de Almeida Jose Miguel , Motrico Emma
Published: June 2018

Background:

Although evidence exists for the efficacy of cardiac rehabilitation programmes to reduce morbidity and mortality among patients with cardiovascular disease, cardiac rehabilitation programmes are underused. We aimed systematically to review the evidence from prospective cohort studies on factors associated with non-participation in and/or dropping out from cardiac rehabilitation programmes.

Methods:

MedLine, Embase, Scopus, Open Grey and Cochrane Database were searched for relevant publications from inception to February 2018. Search terms included (a) coronary heart disease and other cardiac conditions; (b) cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention; and (c) non-participation in and/or dropout. Databases were searched following the PRISMA statement. Study selection, data extraction and the assessment of study quality were performed in duplicate.

Results:

We selected 43 studies with a total of 63,425 patients from 10 different countries that met the inclusion criteria. Factors associated with non-participation in and dropout from cardiac rehabilitation were grouped into six broad categories: intrapersonal factors, clinical factors, interpersonal factors, logistical factors, cardiac rehabilitation programme factors and health system factors. We found that clinical factors, logistical factors and health system factors were the main factors assessed for non-participation in cardiac rehabilitation. We also found differences between the factors associated with non-participation and dropout.

Conclusions:

Several factors were determinant for non-participation in and dropout from cardiac rehabilitation. These findings could be useful to clinicians and policymakers for developing interventions aimed at improving participation and completion of cardiac rehabilitation, such as E-health or home-based delivery programmes. Trial Registration: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) identifier: CRD42016032973.
Hypocrisy and Corruption: How Disparities in Power Shape the Evolution of Social Control
Authors: Eldakar Omar Tonsi , Kammeyer J. Oliver , Nagabandi Nikhil , Gallup Andrew C.
Published: June 2018

Altruism presents an evolutionary paradox, as altruistic individuals are good for the group yet vulnerable to exploitation by selfish individuals. One mechanism that can effectively curtail selfishness within groups is punishment. Here, we show in an evolutionary game-theoretical model that punishment can effectively evolve and maintain high levels of altruism in the population, yet not all punishment strategies were equally virtuous. Unlike typical models of social evolution, we explicitly altered the extent to which individuals vary in their power over others, such that powerful individuals can more readily punish and escape the punishment of others. Two primary findings emerged. Under large power asymmetries, a powerful selfish minority maintained altruism of the masses. In contrast, increased symmetry of power among individuals produced a more egalitarian society held together by altruism and punishment carried out by the collective. These extremes are consistent with the coercive nature of the powerful elites in social insects and egalitarian mechanisms of punishment in humans such as coalitional enforcement and gossip. Our overall findings provide insights into the importance of oversight, the consequences to changes in the power structure of social systems, and the roots of hypocrisy and corruption in human and nonhuman animal societies.
Speculations on the Evolutionary Origins of System Justification
Authors: Jost John T. , Sapolsky Robert M. , Nam H. Hannah
Published: June 2018

For centuries, philosophers and social theorists have wondered why people submit voluntarily to tyrannical leaders and oppressive regimes. In this article, we speculate on the evolutionary origins of system justification, that is, the ways in which people are motivated (often nonconsciously) to defend and justify existing social, economic, and political systems. After briefly recounting the logic of system justification theory and some of the most pertinent empirical evidence, we consider parallels between the social behaviors of humans and other animals concerning the acceptance versus rejection of hierarchy and dominance. Next, we summarize research in human neuroscience suggesting that specific brain regions, such as the amygdala and the anterior cingulate cortex, may be linked to individual differences in ideological preferences concerning (in)equality and social stability as well as the successful navigation of complex, hierarchical social systems. Finally, we consider some of the implications of a system justification perspective for the study of evolutionary psychology, political behavior, and social change.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Intimate Partner Violence Victimization Among Military Personnel: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sparrow Katherine , Dickson Hannah , Kwan Jamie , Howard Louise , Fear Nicola , MacManus Deirdre
Published: June 2018

Background:

Research on intimate partner violence (IPV) in the military has tended to focus on military personnel as perpetrators and civilian partners/spouses as victims. However, studies have found high levels of IPV victimization among military personnel. This article systematically reviews studies of the prevalence of self-reported IPV victimization among military populations.

Methods:

Searches of four electronic databases (Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were supplemented by reference list screening. Meta-analyses of the available data were performed, where possible, using the random effects model.

Results:

This review included 28 studies with a combined sample of 69,808 military participants. Overall, similar or higher prevalence rates of physical IPV victimization were found among males compared to females and this was supported by a meta-analytic subgroup analysis: pooled prevalence of 21% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [17.4, 24.6]) among males and 13.6% among females (95% CI [9.5, 17.7]). Psychological IPV was the most prevalent type of abuse, in keeping with findings from the general population. There were no studies on sexual IPV victimization among male personnel. Evidence for the impact of military factors, such as deployment or rank, on IPV victimization was conflicting.

Discussion:

Prevalence rates varied widely, influenced by methodological variation among studies. The review highlighted the lack of research into male IPV victimization in the military and the relative absence of research into impact of IPV. It is recommended that future research disaggregates results by gender and considers the impact of IPV, in order that gender differences can be uncovered.
Design and performance evaluation of an exponentially weighted moving average–based adaptive control for piezo-driven motion platform
Authors: Ting Yung , Nguyen Tho Van , Chen Jia-Ci
Published: June 2018

In this article, building a controlled system with velocity feedback in the inner loop for a platform driven by piezoelectric motors is investigated. Such a motion control system is subject to disturbance such as friction, preload, and temperature rise in operation. Especially, temperature rise is an essential problem of using piezoelectric motor, but very few research works address this topic in depth. Exponentially weighted moving average method has been widely used in process control to deal with systematic change and drift disturbance. It is attempted to map the exponentially weighted moving average method and the predictor corrector control with two exponentially weighted moving average formulas into a run-to-run model reference adaptive system for velocity control. Using a predictive friction model, a dead-zone compensator is built that can reduce the friction effect and provide an approximately linear relation of the input voltage and the output velocity for the subsequent exponentially weighted moving average or predictor corrector control control design. Comparison of the exponentially weighted moving average, predictor corrector control, and proportional–integral–derivative controllers is carried out in experiment with different speed patterns on a single-axis and a bi-axial platform. The results indicate that the proposed run-to-run-model reference adaptive system predictor corrector control is superior to the other methods.
Optimal sliding mode tracking control of spacecraft formation flying with limited data communication
Authors: Liu Ruixia , Liu Ming , Cao Xibin , Liu Yuan
Published: June 2018

This article deals with the optimal tracking control problem for spacecraft formation flying via a sliding mode approach in the presence of external disturbances and signal quantization, where both state quantization and input quantization are considered. First, the Gauss pseudospectral method is adopted to solve the multi-objective optimization problem, where performance optimization, thruster amplitude constraints, and collision avoidance are simultaneously taken into consideration. Second, a novel quantized sliding mode control strategy is developed by employing a dynamic logarithmic quantizer to track the obtained optimal trajectories of relative position and velocity. In this design, the quantizer parameters are input into the designed controller to compensate for the signal quantization effects. Under the proposed robust quantized sliding mode control strategy, the resulting closed-loop control system is asymptotically stable with satisfying performance multi-objective constraints. Finally, a simulation example is presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed control design scheme.
Surface work-hardening optimization of cold roll-beating splines based on an improved double-response surface-satisfaction function method
Authors: Cui Fengkui , Su Yongxiang , Wang Xiaoqiang , Yu Xiang , Ruan Xiaolin , Liu Libo
Published: June 2018

The work hardening of a spline during cold roll-beating is used as an indicator to evaluate the mechanical properties of the surface. To further optimize the work-hardening degree of a cold roll-beating spline surface, weight theory and satisfaction functions are used to improve the double-response surface-satisfaction function model. The model describes the involute spline based on the cold roll-beating speed and feed rate. The generalized reduced-order gradient method is applied to optimize the optimal combination of processing parameters. The experiments validate the optimization results of the improved double-response surface-satisfaction function method and the conventional response surface method based on the cold roll-beating spline test and a comparative analysis of the spline surface metallographic structure. The results show that the satisfaction degree of the improved response model is 0.87384, indicating that the model is robust and reliable. The optimized processing parameters are a cold roll speed of 1448.21 r/mm, a feed rate of 41.71 mm/min, and a degree of work hardening of 144.79%. The spline surface work-hardening degree based on the revised model is higher than that of the conventional model. Thus, the improved double-response surface-satisfaction function model provides better accuracy.
Relationship Between Group Learning and Interpersonal Skills With Emphasis on the Role of Mediating Emotional Intelligence Among High School Students
Authors: Moradi Saeid , Faghiharam Batoul , Ghasempour Kobra
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between group learning and interpersonal skills, with emphasis on the mediating role of emotional intelligence among high school students in Tehran. This research is a descriptive correlation type that was implemented using structural equation modeling method. The statistical population of this study includes 1,800 high school students. The sample was 316 subjects, using simple random sampling and Cochran formula. The data-gathering tools in this research were Matson’s Interpersonal Communication Skills Questionnaire, Bradberry-Greave’s Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, and Lauren-Nemeth’s Group Learning Questionnaire with a reliability of 0.81, 0.87, and 0.71, respectively, achieved. For data analysis, structural equation modeling and PLS software were used. The research results indicate that group learning also directly affects interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence and indirectly affects interpersonal skills through emotional intelligence.
Resisting, Claiming and Prefiguring: Movements for Dignified Housing in São Paulo
Authors: Paterniani Stella Z.
Published: June 2018

The struggle for the right to dignified housing in São Paulo, Brazil, waged by low-income black families organized in housing movements, is a political struggle that intertwines three dimensions: resisting, claiming and prefiguring the future. This article discusses ‘Occupation Mauá’, an occupied building in the city centre of São Paulo. More than 200 families that live in this occupation, for more than 10 years now, resist against gentrification processes, claim public policy from the state and imagine a new life for themselves—in that building, with those families, in that region of the city. These families have already obtained a major political achievement in resisting, claiming and imagining their future by connecting the struggle for a dignified present to the one for a dignified future. This achievement sees in the state an agent of both death and life. The state performs death when it evicts homeless families; yet, it is also the object of struggles as an agent of public policy. The struggle of urban housing movements in Brazil is thus a life-and-death struggle.
Graded Caste Inequality and Poverty: Evidence on Role of Economic Discrimination
Authors: Thorat Sukhadeo , Madheswaran S.
Published: June 2018

Graded caste inequality is the most stubborn feature of the ancient caste system which continues with some of its worst features even today. In view of this context, this paper looks at the persistence of graded caste inequality and the role of economic discrimination, drawing mainly from the recent empirical and theoretical research. It examines the following three interrelated aspects of the graded caste inequality (a) Nature of (graded) inequality in income and poverty, and other indicators of human development like malnutrition and education, particularly among three castes: former untouchables (SCs), OBC and higher castes (HCs); (b) Empirical evidence from recent studies on market and non-market discrimination faced by the SC; and (c) Impact of discrimination on income and poverty of SCs, OBCs and HCs in a graded manner. We find that much of the inequality in per capita consumption expenditure is due to inequality in asset ownership (agricultural land and enterprise) and higher education. Most of the explained difference is due to higher education/regular salaried jobs and asset ownership in the form of land and enterprises. In the urban salaried labour market, the contribution of discrimination to wage differential between SCs and HCs is 28.5 per cent in the regular labour market, 19.4 and 31.7 per cent for public and private sectors, respectively. We also find that in the regular labour market, the extent of caste-based wage gap as well as discrimination varies significantly across the quintiles of the wage distribution. The wage gap between SCs and HCs that is attributable to discrimination is higher in top quintiles than at bottom quintiles of wage distribution. We also find that discrimination against SCs and OBCs partially operates through occupational segregation.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: MicroRNA-488 inhibits tongue squamous carcinoma cell invasion and EMT by directly targeting ATF3
Authors: Shi Bingxia , Yan Wei , Liu Guolin , Guo Yanjun
Published: June 2018

Background

It has been reported that the expression of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) is closely associated with both microRNA (miRNA) processing and the progress of many cancers. Our study aimed to explore the interaction between ATF3 and miR-488 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC).

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to detect the levels of ATF3 and miR-488 in TSCC tissues and cell lines. Cell invasion and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were assessed to determine the biological functions of miR-488 and ATF3 in TSCC cells. The mRNA and protein levels of ATF3 were measured using quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. Luciferase assays were performed to validate ATF3 as an miR-488 target in TSCC cells.

Results

We found that the level of miR-488 significantly decreased and the expression of ATF3 significantly increased in TSCC tissues and cell lines. A low level of miR-488 was closely associated with increased expression of ATF3 in TSCC tissues. Introducing miR-488 significantly inhibited the invasion and EMT of TSCC cells, and knockdown of miR-488 promoted both processes. The bioinformatics analysis predicted that ATF3 is a potential target gene of miR-488. The luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-488 could directly target ATF3. ATF3 silencing had similar effects to miR-488 overexpression on TSCC cells. Overexpression of ATF3 in TSCC cells partially reversed the inhibitory effects of the miR-488 mimic.

Conclusion

miR-488 inhibited cell invasion and EMT of TSCC cells by directly downregulating ATF3 expression.
Lack of durable protection against cotton smoke‐induced acute lung injury in sheep by nebulized single chain urokinase plasminogen activator or tissue plasminogen activator
Authors: Fukuda Satoshi , Enkhbaatar Perenlei , Nelson Christina , Cox Robert A. , Wolfson Marla R. , Shaffer Thomas H. , Williams Robert O. , Surasarang Soraya Hengsawas , Sawittree Sahakijpijarn , Florova Galina , Komissarov Andrey A. , Koenig Kathleen , Sarva Krishna , Ndetan Harrison T. , Singh Karan P. , Idell Steven
Published: June 2018

Background

Airway fibrin casts are clinically important complications of severe inhalational smoke‐induced acute lung injury (ISIALI) for which reliable evidence‐based therapy is lacking. Nebulized anticoagulants or a tissue plasminogen activator; tPA, has been advocated, but airway bleeding is a known and lethal potential complication. We posited that nebulized delivery of single chain urokinase plasminogen activator, scuPA, is well‐tolerated and improves physiologic outcomes in ISIALI. To test this hypothesis, we nebulized scuPA or tPA and delivered these agents every 4 h to sheep with cotton smoke induced ISIALI that were ventilated by either adaptive pressure ventilation/controlled mandatory ventilation (APVcmv; Group 1, n = 14) or synchronized controlled mandatory ventilation (SCMV)/limited suctioning; Group 2, n = 32). Physiologic readouts of acute lung injury included arterial blood gas analyses, PaO2/FiO2 ratios, peak and plateau airway pressures, lung resistance and static lung compliance. Lung injury was further assessed by histologic scoring. Biochemical analyses included determination of antigenic and enzymographic uPA and tPA levels, plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 activities and d‐dimer in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Plasma levels of uPA, tPA antigens, d‐dimers and α‐macroglobulin‐uPA complex levels were also assessed.

Results

In Group 1, tPA at the 2 mg dose was ineffective, but at 4 mg tPA or scuPA, the PaO2/FiO2 ratios, peak/plateau pressures improved during evolving injury (p < 0.01) without significant differences at 48 h. To improve delivery of the interventions, the experiments were repeated in Group 2 with limited suctioning/SCMV, which generally increased PAs in (BAL). In Group 2, tPA was ineffective, but scuPA (4 or 8 mg) improved physiologic outcomes (p < 0.01) and plateau pressures remained lower at 48 h. Airway bleeding occurred at 8 mg tPA. BAL plasminogen activator (PA) levels positively correlated with physiologic outcomes at 48 h.

Conclusions

Physiologic outcomes improved in sheep in which better delivery of the PAs occurred. The benefits of nebulized scuPA were achieved without airway bleeding associated with tPA, but were transient and largely abrogated at 48 h, in part attributable to the progression and severity of ISIALI.
Gibberellins negatively modulate ovule number in plants
Authors: Gomez M. D. , Barro-Trastoy D. , Escoms E. , Saura-Sánchez M. , Sánchez I. , Briones-Moreno A. , Vera-Sirera F. , Carrera E. , Ripoll J. J. , Yanofsky M. F. , Lopez-Diaz I. , Alonso J. M. , Perez-Amador M. A.
Published: June 2018

Ovule formation is a complex developmental process in plants with a strong impact on the production of seeds. Ovule primordia initiation is controlled by a gene network, including components of the signaling pathways of auxin, brassinosteroids and cytokinins. In contrast, gibberellins (GAs) and their signaling negative regulators DELLA proteins have never been shown to be involved in ovule initiation. Here we provide molecular and genetic evidences that point to DELLA proteins as novel players in the determination of ovule number in Arabidopsis and in species of agronomic interest like tomato and rapeseed, adding a new layer of complexity to this important developmental process. DELLA activity correlates positively with ovule number, acting as a positive factor for ovule initiation. In addition, ectopic expression of a dominant DELLA in the placenta is sufficient to increase ovule number. The role of DELLA proteins in ovule number seems not to be related to auxins transport or signaling in the ovule primordia. A possible crosstalk of DELLA proteins with the molecular and hormonal network controlling ovule initiation is discussed.
EFFECT OF SPENT ENGINE OIL WITH ADDITIVES ON WATER AND BIO RESISTANCE OF BIRCH AND PINE WOOD
Authors: Бельчинская Лариса , Belchinskaya Larisa , Жужукин Константин , Zhuzhukin Konstantin , Новикова Людмила , Novikova Lyudmila , Дмитренков Александр , Dmitrenkov Aleksandr , Седлячик Ян , Sedlyachek Yan
Published: June 2018

A composition for impregnation of birch and pine wood was developed. The impregnation of samples 20x20 mm in size and 10 mm in length along the wood fibers was realized by the “hot-cold bath” method at 120oC for 40 min. The efficiency of impregnating composition was evaluated according to physical parameters: water absorption, swelling in tangential and radial directions. It was found that impregnation of birch and pine wood with spent engine oil (SEO) allows improving the antiseptic properties and water resistance of wood and, hence, to decrease the water absorption and swelling of the wood of these species. To enhance the effect of hydrophobization of wood, inorganic (aerosol, clinoptilolite) and organic (oak bark flour) fillers (0.5; 1; 2%) were added to SEO. A non-linear dependence of the wood characteristics on the filler content in impregnating composition was observed. The addition of organic filler was more effective in improving the water resistance of wood as compared to inorganic ones. The impregnating composition with 1% of oak bark flour revealed the highest wood water absorption indicators, as a result, the present organic filler is the most promising in abatement of water absorption and swelling. The analysis of biostability of the samples allows us to ascertain that there is no biological damage in the impregnated wood. The present research illustrated that the use of SEO as a matrix for impregnation of birch and pine wood may partially solve the problem of its utilization, thereby creating the possibility of resource saving. The use of oak bark flour as a filler solves another problem – the obtaining of an effective and environmentally friendly impregnating composition.
The Role of Fundamental Knowledge in Solving Problems of the Subject Area “Technology”(From the Point of View of the Project of the Concept of Teaching)
Authors: Кутепов С. , Kutepov S.
Published: June 2018

long-awaited Concept of teaching the subject area “Technology”, the project of which is analyzed in the article,defi nes the problems facing the teacher. The author illustrates these problems and the characterized directions of teaching the subject area “Technology” with the possible fragments of the content of technological education. The author shows which information should be used at the stage of the development of schoolchildren’s basic application skills of the main types of hand tools (electrical including) as a resource for solving technological problems which are the priority results of the mastering the subject area “Technology”. The article suggests the knowledge necessary for ecological education of schoolchildren, formation of their world outlook, provided that the interdisciplinary relations are established. The problems of the environmentally friendly production organically associated with the problems of modern economy allow us to solve the problem of economic education. The article proves that the subject of “Technology” is supposed to create certain patterns of thinking and behavior of schoolchildren, introduce them into the world of professions, and ensure professional self-determination of schoolchildren.
Food safety in the middle Ob region
Authors: Кисленко Виктор , Kislenko Viktor
Published: June 2018

The monograph includes information on the sanitary and microbiological state of raw materials and food products of animal origin (meat, milk, meat products), products of their processing and fish in the period from 1999 to 2014 in the average Ob region within the Novosibirsk region. The dynamics of microbiological safety, content of heavy metals (Cd, Hg, Pb, As) in food products for the specified period is shown. The nature of accumulation of heavy metals in animal and fish food products is reflected. The spatial regularities of the content of heavy metals and radionuclides in feed, food products of animal origin and the animal body were revealed.
The book is addressed to specialists working in the field of food safety, graduate students and students of biological faculties of universities.
Compliance with enhanced recovery protocols in elderly patients undergoing colorectal resection
Authors: Hallam S , Rickard F , Reeves N , Messenger D , Shabbir J
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is associated with reduced length of stay (LOS) and improved outcomes in colorectal surgery. It is unclear whether ERAS can be safely implemented in elderly patients undergoing complex colorectal resections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of ERAS in patients of all ages undergoing colorectal surgery.

Methods

A prospective database of a consecutive series of patients undergoing colorectal resections with ERAS between August 2012 and December 2014 was evaluated. Patients were divided into four age groups. Outcomes studied were compliance with ERAS elements, LOS, morbidity and mortality.

Results

Of the 294 patients in the study cohort, 79 were <60 years, 81 were 60–69 years, 86 were 70–79 years and 48 were ≥80 years of age. There was no significant difference between age groups in compliance with ERAS elements. Age was not predictive of delayed discharge (LOS >6 days) or morbidity. Factors that were predictive of delayed discharge on multivariate analysis were open surgery (odds ratio [OR]: 2.23, p=0.003), conversion to open surgery (OR: 3.23, p=0.017), stoma formation (OR: 2.10, p=0.019) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR: 4.12, p=0.038). Factors predictive of morbidity on multivariate analysis comprised conversion to open surgery (OR: 7.72, p=0.004), high creatinine (OR: 1.03 per unit increase in creatinine, p=0.008) and stoma education (OR: 0.31, p=0.030).

Conclusions

ERAS can be successfully implemented in older patients. There was equal compliance with the ERAS programme across the four age groups and no significant effect of age on LOS or morbidity.
A Simple and Novel Fecal Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer: Ratio of Fusobacterium Nucleatum to Probiotics Populations, Based on Their Antagonistic Effect
Authors: Guo Songhe , Li Linfang , Xu Banglao , Li Manghui , Zeng Qiuyao , Xiao Han , Xue Ying , Wu Yixian , Wang Yidan , Liu Wanli , Zhang Ge
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Gut microbial dysbiosis contributes to the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). We evaluated the utility of fecal bacterial biomarker candidates identified by our 16S rDNA sequencing analysis for CRC diagnosis.

METHODS

We measured the relative abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (Fp), Bifidobacterium (Bb), and Lactobacillus (Lb) by quantitative PCR in fecal samples from 2 cohorts of 903 individuals. We evaluated and validated the diagnostic performance of these microbial ratios and investigated the antagonistic effect of Fn against 3 different indicator stains.

RESULTS

The microbial ratio of Fn to Bb (Fn/Bb) had a superior sensitivity of 84.6% and specificity of 92.3% in detecting CRC (area under the curve, AUC = 0.911). The combination of Fn/Bb and Fn/Fp improved the diagnostic value (AUC = 0.943). Moreover, the combination of Fn/Bb and Fn/Fp offered 60.0% specificity and 90.0% sensitivity in detecting stage I of CRC (AUC = 0.804). In particular, Fn was negatively correlated with Fp in the CRC group. The performance for CRC diagnosis was confirmed in the validation cohort II. The culture supernatant from Fn exhibited strong bactericidal activity against probiotics Fp and Bb strains.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that Fn could play a role in microbiota dysbiosis via the secreted antagonistic substances against probiotics. Moreover, the ratio of Fn to the important probiotics Fp and Bb was identified as a valuable biomarker for screening early CRC.
Sociedad y cultura modernas en Brasil. La formación de la sociología en San Pablo
Authors: Do Nascimento Arruda Maria Arminda
Published: June 2018

La experiencia de la constitución de la sociología moderna en el Brasil fue plasmada en la intensa modernización del país, que se acentuó en el curso de la crisis de las relaciones sociales tradicionales, y más sensiblemente después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. La sociedad brasileña seguía moviéndose en un sentido inverso al de la de la europea: mientras que en Europa se producía una pérdida de la hegemonía civilizacional, en el Brasil se daba la debacle del Estado Novo y la construcción de instituciones democráticas, acompañadas por una expansión desarrollista inédita. La USP fue producto de las nuevas concepciones que orientaban a los mentores de las instituciones culturales, quienes propugnaban la creación de organismos afines al clima imperante. En este escenario de transformaciones profundas y de apuestas modernizadoras Florestan Fernandes se destacó como personalidad singular la cual se identificó con la misión de construir las bases científicas de la sociología en el Brasil.
Accessible Making: Designing Makerspaces for Accessibility
Authors: Steele Katherine M. , Blaser Brianna , Cakmak Maya
Published: June 2018

The purpose of makerspaces is to increase access to “making” among the general community. Because of this social justice orientation, it is important to consider how welcoming and accessible makerspaces are to individuals with diverse abilities, including individuals with disabilities. This design brief examines a three-step process used to make a university-based makerspace more accessible and welcoming to individuals with disabilities including a tour, design activity, and brainstorming session. The process helps identify simple changes that were made to the makerspace, as well as increasing student, faculty, and community access. Using a similar process, other makerspaces could improve the accessibility of their spaces, procedures, and tools.
The Evolution of Designing E-Service-Learning Projects: A Look at the Development of Instructional Designers
Authors: Stefaniak Jill , Maddrell Jennifer , Earnshaw Yvonne , Hale Paige
Published: June 2018

This design case will discuss how design strategies evolved through the development and implementation of two e-service-learning project cohorts. The article provides a detailed account for how Designers for Learning launched its first e-service-learning instructional design project to address adult basic education needs. Information and design feedback gathered at the end of project informed design decisions and changes to the process for a second iteration. The authors discuss the rationale for design decisions made throughout the course of these two cohorts as well as recommendations for mentoring and coaching novice instructional designers through a service-learning project.
Metals Measurements in Body Tissues and Fluids: Toxicological and Clinical Importance of Standardizing Quality Analytical Methods for Differentiating Cobalt Partitioning on a Molecular Level
Authors: Kerger Brent D. , Gerads Russell , Gurleyuk Hakan , Tsuji Joyce A.
Published: June 2018

Measurement of cobalt (Co) concentrations in periprosthetic tissues and body fluids of failed cobalt-chromium alloy implants can be helpful in assessing whether or not metal-induced cytotoxicity played a role in prosthetic revision decisions. Samples should be frozen soon after collection at explant surgery for later analysis by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) with interference reduction technology. Metal ions of Co are rapidly bound to proteins and other organic molecules in periprosthetic fluids, which can limit tissue uptake and toxicity in most circumstances. New methods combining size exclusion chromatography and ICP-MS can now separately quantify various protein-bound fractions and free ions and can assess the Co binding capacity of periprosthetic fluids and blood potentially to identify individuals more susceptible to cytotoxic responses. In periprosthetic tissues, split sample analyses for histopathology and total Co following acid digestion can also provide insights on degree of tissue penetration and metal-associated cytotoxicity. Standardization of ICP-MS analytical procedures for measuring relatively low tissue or fluid concentrations of total Co (e.g., less than 5 ppb) is needed because methodology and equipment differences among clinical laboratories are associated with inconsistent accuracy. This concern is underscored by suggestions that clinical decisions about excessive wear or risk of revision decisions (or both) should be based on blood total Co levels at or below 5 ppb. Literature references to Co “metal ion concentrations” are technically misleading because the toxicologically relevant free ions are not actually quantified, and both synovial fluids and blood may have a renewable, high capacity for rapid protein binding that limits the potential for clinically important cytotoxicity to periprosthetic tissues and distant organs in most cases. More detailed research to discern molecular forms of Co is needed to elucidate factors and circumstances that substantially reduce protein binding and demonstrate correlations between free Co concentrations and clinically important cytotoxicity.
Inspection of RC half-joint bridges in England: analysis of current practice
Authors: Desnerck Pieter , Lees Janet M. , Valerio Pierfrancesco , Loudon Neil , Morley Chris T.
Published: June 2018

The strategic road network (SRN) in England carries 33% of traffic in England and Highways England's bridge management systems plays a crucial role in the maintenance of infrastructure assets along the SRN. Reinforced concrete half-joint structures are susceptible to deterioration and hard to inspect, hence they require special attention. Inspection data relating to half-joint structures on the SRN was gathered. Within this portfolio, 252 structures with half-joint-related defects were interrogated to classify the most common defects and identify any potential shortcomings in current inspection practice. Clear correlations were shown to exist between defect classes, emphasising the need for quality control and proper workmanship. A revised inspection methodology for half-joint structures that provides more comprehensive information about crack details, and a greater alignment between defect information and indicators of structural measures, is proposed. Concurrently, knowledge of the zonal crack location, crack orientation and crack severity helps inform decision making about the structural condition. There is scope for use of the methodology in conjunction with automated processing procedures to identify half-joint structures with particular defect characteristics and profiles. In this way, asset managers will be better able to allocate resources to structures with an increased risk of failure.
Epidemiology and outcomes of electric burn injury: a study of 768 patients in a high volume tertiary care centre of North India
Authors: Srivastava Sunil , Kumari Hiranmayi , Singh Abhimanyu , Rai Rohit Kumar
Published: June 2018

Background: Electrical burn injuries (EBI) comprise a small proportion of the total burn admissions but they inflict significant morbidity. The objective of this study was to analyse recent epidemiologic data and identify prevention measures.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the medical records of all burn admissions from April 2016 to March 2018 and data was analysed for demographic characteristics and outcomes and patterns of electric burn injury.Results: A total of 3136 admissions were made. Male to female ratio was 1.5:1.0.  Rural: urban ratio was 2:1. Mode of injury was accidental (79%), suicidal (12%) and homicidal (9%). Flame burn (64.47%) topped the list of etiologic factors. Electric burn represented 24.49% which was quite significant when compared to other parts of the world. 1042 patients expired (33.22%). Out of the total electric burn admissions, 768 (24.49%) patients were of electric injury. 207 (27.01%) patients sustained low voltage (<1000 kv) injuries while 561 (73.04%) patients had high voltage (>1000 kv) injury. Most of the injuries were work related. There was a rise in serum creatine phosphokinases, myoglobinuria, renal failure, abnormal cardiac events and other concomitant injuries in the high voltage group. Reconstructive surgeries performed in both high and low voltage group was high. A total of 71 (9.24%) fasciotomy and 123 (16.01%) amputations were done. The mortality rate was 10.5%.Conclusions: EBI has a devastating influence on burn survivors. We advocate a low threshold for managing associated injuries, educating safety principles and improving infrastructure by the state to curb this preventable danger.
Alternative Techniques for Teaching Writing
Authors: Arumi Sihindun
Published: June 2018

Writing as one of language skill is often considered very difficult. It is due to the fact that writing needs to produce and organize ideas using appropriate vocabulary, language use, paragraph organization, and mechanism. It also needs to turn the ideas into a readable text and for foreign language learners, they should also transfer ideas from their native language into target language (foreign language). It raises any problems for them to create a good text. Moreover, the situation in the class does not always supportthem in which the techniques of the teacher in teaching writing is boring and monotonous, do not give enough attention to help students explore their writing skills. So that they attend the writing class only for procedural formality.Thus, it is considered important to elaborate various techniques to build nice classroom atmosphere as well as to improve students’ writing skills.
Film education as a multiplicity of practices: A media-ecological perspective
Authors: Bachmann Alejandro , Zahn Manuel
Published: June 2018

This paper explores a media-ecological perspective on film-education practice. Drawing from their own experiences of teaching film (at the Austrian Film Museum and the KurzFilmSchule, Hamburg) the authors challenge monolithic theories of film education, suggesting instead that film
education practices are shaped by context, and are relational to the spaces and institutions in which they take place. While the paper takes as its core point of departure Alain Bergala's The Cinema Hypothesis, its intention is to shift the way we look at and reflect on film education
from one text towards a multiplicity of practices. Finally, the essay considers the extent to which each of these regional theorizations are bound to their specific conditions of practice and the extent to which they still carry within them a shared understanding of the aims of film education.
DESEMPENHO DE HÍBRIDOS DE COUVE-FLOR NAS CONDIÇÕES DA BAIXADA FLUMINENSE - RJ
Authors: De Oliveira Felipe Alves , Dos Santos Carlos Antônio , Costa Evandro Silva Pereira , Goulart Rafael Guthier Tavares , De Andrade Nairim Fidêncio , Diniz Caio Soares , Do Carmo Margarida Goréte Ferreira
Published: June 2018

Objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho de cinco híbridos de couve-flor (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), em condições de campo em Seropédica, Baixada Fluminense do Rio de Janeiro. Realizou-se ensaio no período de junho a setembro de 2017. Avaliaram-se os híbridos Sharon (Sakata), Bonus (Tecnoseed), Barcelona (Seminis), caracterizados como de meia estação; e Desert (Tecnoseed) e Verona (Seminis), recomendados para cultivo de verão. O delineamento experimental adotado foi de blocos casualizados com cinco tratamentos, quatro repetições e quatro plantas úteis por parcela. As plantas foram colhidas aos 64, 69 e 73 dias após o transplantio quando se avaliaram a produtividade comercial estimada (PE); precocidade média (PM); número (NF), massa fresca (MFF) e seca (MSF) de folhas; diâmetro horizontal (DI), massa fresca (MFI), seca (MSI) de inflorescências. Todas as plantas avaliadas apresentaram inflorescências, porém com variações de características em função do cultivar. Não houve diferença entre as cultivares quanto à precocidade. A cultivar Sharon apresentou maiores valores de MFI, MSI, DI e maior produtividade (17,90 Mg ha1), seguida por Bonus (13,68 Mg ha1). As demais cultivares apresentaram produtividade de 7,88 a 9,56 Mg ha1, não diferindo entre si. Conclui-se que a produção de couve-flor de meia-estação e verão nas condições de inverno da Baixada Fluminense foi possível e satisfatória e que as cultivares Sharon e Bonus se destacaram por maior produtividade e crescimento de folhas e inflorescências.
Direct contact membrane distillation applied to saline wastewater: parameter optimization
Authors: Abdelkader Sana , Boubakri Ali , Geissen Sven Uwe , Bousselmi Latifa
Published: June 2018

Freshwater availability is increasingly under pressure from growing demand, resource depletion and environmental pollution. Desalination of saline wastewater is an option for supplying households, industry and agriculture with water, but technologies such as reverse osmosis, evaporation or electrodialysis are energy intensive. By contrast, membrane distillation (MD) is a competitive technology for water desalination. In our study, response surface methodology was applied to optimize the direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) treatment of synthetic saline wastewater. The aim was to enhance the process performance and the permeate flux Jp (L/m2·h) by optimizing the operating parameters: temperature difference ΔT, feed velocity Vf, salt concentration [NaCl], and glucose concentration [Gluc]. The results are a high permeate quality, with 99.9% electrical conductivity reduction and more than 99.9% chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate. The predicted optimum permeate flux Jp was 34.1 L/m2·h at ΔT = 55.2 °C and Vf = 0.086 m/s, the two most significant parameters. The model created showed a high degree of correlation between the experimental and the predicted responses, with high statistical significance.
IMPACT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE ON EMPLOYABILITY OF IT PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Arjit Pathak  , Vijayshri Tewari  , Shardul Shankar
Published: June 2018

This paper critically analyses conceptualizations and authentic proof in support of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and its claimed role in the potential employability of the budding and working IT Professionals. EI is claimed to have an effect on a sizeable array of behaviors, as well as employee commitment, teamwork, development of aptitude, innovation, quality of accommodation, and client bond in observation. Analysis confirms that person with high degrees of emotional intelligence present plenty of abilities. Success makes more dynamic personal relationships, lead an abundance of teams, and relish higher health than those with the low EI. A phrenic conception is given to the supposed standing of EI in employment initiatives (which categorically accentuate on recruitment and placement), job performance, and satisfaction. Overall, this paper demonstrates that recent analysis has causedvitaldevelopments towards understanding the utility of EI within the workplace. The paper concludes by offering a variety of sensible pointers for the event and implementation of EI measures at IT professionals’ employability.