bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrent epigenetic silencing of the PTPRD tumor suppressor in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Szaumkessel Marcin , Wojciechowska Sonia , Janiszewska Joanna , Zemke Natalia , Byzia Ewa , Kiwerska Katarzyna , Kostrzewska-Poczekaj Magdalena , Ustaszewski Adam , Jarmuz-Szymczak Malgorzata , Grenman Reidar , Wierzbicka Malgorzata , Bartochowska Anna , Szyfter Krzysztof , Giefing Maciej
Published: March 2017

Cellular processes like differentiation, mitotic cycle, and cell growth are regulated by tyrosine kinases with known oncogenic potential and tyrosine phosphatases that downmodulate the first. Therefore, tyrosine phosphatases are recurrent targets of gene alterations in human carcinomas. We and others suggested recently a tumor suppressor function of the PTPRD tyrosine phosphatase and reported homozygous deletions of the PTPRD locus in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. In this study, we investigated other gene-inactivating mechanisms potentially targeting PTPRD, including loss-of-function mutations and also epigenetic alterations like promoter DNA hypermethylation. We sequenced the PTPRD gene in eight laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines but did not identify any inactivating mutations. In contrast, by bisulfite pyrosequencing of the gene promoter region, we identified significantly higher levels of methylation (p = 0.001 and p = 0.0002, respectively) in 9/14 (64%) laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and 37/79 (47%) of primary laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma tumors as compared to normal epithelium of the upper aerodigestive tract. There was also a strong correlation (p = 0.0001) between methylation and transcriptional silencing for the PTPRD gene observed in a cohort of 497 head and neck tumors from The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset suggesting that DNA methylation is the main mechanism of PTPRD silencing in these tumors. In summary, our data provide further evidence of the high incidence of PTPRD inactivation in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. We suggest that deletions and loss-of-function mutations are responsible for PTPRD loss only in a fraction of cases, whereas DNA methylation is the dominating mechanism of PTPRD inactivation.
Surface-bound galectin-4 regulates gene transcription and secretion of chemokines in human colorectal cancer cell lines
Authors: Rao U Subrahmanyeswara , Rao Prema S
Published: March 2017

One long-term complication of chronic intestinal inflammation is the development of colorectal cancer. However, the mechanisms linking inflammation to the colorectal tumorigenesis are poorly defined. Previously, we have demonstrated that galectin-4 is predominantly expressed in the luminal epithelia of the gastrointestinal tract, and its loss of expression plays a key role in the colorectal tumorigenesis. However, the mechanism by which galectin-4 regulates inflammation-induced tumorigenesis is unclear. Here, we show that galectin-4 secreted by the colorectal cancer cell lines was bound to the cell surface. Neutralization of surface-bound galectin-4 with anti-galectin-4 antibody resulted in increased cell proliferation with concomitant secretion of several chemokines into the extracellular medium. Neutralization of the surface-bound galectin-4 also resulted in the up-regulation of transcription of 29 genes, several of which are components of multiple inflammation signaling pathways. In an alternate experiment, binding of recombinant galectin-4 protein to cell surface of the galectin-4-negative colorectal cancer cells resulted in increased p27, and decreased cyclin D1 and c-Myc levels, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Together, these data demonstrated that surface-bound galectin-4 is a dual function protein—down-regulating cell proliferation and chemokine secretion in galectin-4-expressing colorectal cancer cells on one hand and inducing apoptosis in galectin-4-negative colorectal cancer cells on the other hand.
Mitochondrial DNA alteration in primary and metastatic colorectal cancer: Different frequency and association with selected clinicopathological and molecular markers
Authors: Kleist Britta , Meurer Thuja , Poetsch Micaela
Published: March 2017

This study attempts to determine whether primary tumor tissue could reliably represent metastatic colorectal cancer in therapy-guiding analysis of mitochondrial microsatellite instability. Therefore, we investigated the concordance of microsatellite instability in D310, D514, and D16184 (mitochondrial DNA displacement loop), and its association with selected clinical categories and KRAS/NRAS/BRAF/PIK3CA/TP53 mutation status between primary and metastatic colorectal cancer tissue from 119 patients. Displacement loop microsatellite instability was significantly more frequently seen in lymph node metastases (53.1%) compared to primary tumors (37.5%) and distant metastases (21.4%) ( p = 0.0183 and p = 0.0005). The discordant rate was significantly higher in lymph node metastases/primary tumor pairs (74.6%) than in distant metastases/primary tumor pairs (52.4%) or lymph node metastases/distant metastases pairs (51.6%) ( p = 0.0113 and p = 0.0261) with more gain (86.7%) than loss (61.1%) of microsatellite instability in the discordant lymph node metastases ( p = 0.0024). Displacement loop instability occurred significantly more frequently in lymph node metastases and distant metastases of patients with early colorectal cancer onset age <60 years ( p = 0.0122 and p = 0.0129), was found with a significant high rate in a small cohort of TP53-mutated distant metastases ( p = 0.0418), and was associated with TP53 wild-type status of primary tumors ( p = 0.0009), but did not correlate with KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, or PIK3CA mutations. In conclusion, mitochondrial microsatellite instability and its association with selected clinical and molecular markers are discordant in primary and metastatic colorectal cancer, which could have importance for surveillance and therapeutic strategies.
Proteasome expression and activity in cancer and cancer stem cells
Authors: Voutsadakis Ioannis A
Published: March 2017

Proteasome is a multi-protein organelle that participates in cellular proteostasis by destroying damaged or short-lived proteins in an organized manner guided by the ubiquitination signal. By being in a central place in the cellular protein complement homeostasis, proteasome is involved in virtually all cell processes including decisions on cell survival or death, cell cycle, and differentiation. These processes are important also in cancer, and thus, the proteasome is an important regulator of carcinogenesis. Cancers include a variety of cells which, according to the cancer stem cell theory, descend from a small percentage of cancer stem cells, alternatively termed tumor-initiating cells. These cells constitute the subsets that have the ability to propagate the whole variety of cancer and repopulate tumors after cytostatic therapies. Proteasome plays a role in cellular processes in cancer stem cells, but it has been found to have a decreased function in them compared to the rest of cancer cells. This article will discuss the transcriptional regulation of proteasome sub-unit proteins in cancer and in particular cancer stem cells and the relationship of the proteasome with the pluripotency that is the defining characteristic of stem cells. Therapeutic opportunities that present from the understanding of the proteasome role will also be discussed.
Demethoxycurcumin inhibited human epithelia ovarian cancer cells’ growth via up-regulating miR-551a
Authors: Du Zhenhua , Sha Xianqun
Published: March 2017

Curcumin is a natural agent that has ability to dampen tumor cells’ growth. However, the natural form of curcumin is prone to degrade and unstable in vitro. Here, we demonstrated that demethoxycurcumin (a curcumin-related demethoxy compound) could inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, IRS2/PI3K/Akt axis was inactivated in cells treated with demethoxycurcumin. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that miR-551a was down-regulated in ovarian cancer tissues and ovarian cancer cell lines. Over-expression of miR-551a inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells, whereas down-regulation of miR-551a exerted the opposite function. Luciferase assays confirmed that there was a binding site of miR-551a in IRS2, and we found that miR-551a exerted tumor-suppressive function by targeting IRS2 in ovarian cancer cells. Remarkably, miR-551a was up-regulated in the cells treated with demethoxycurcumin, and demethoxycurcumin suppressed IRS2 by restoration of miR-551a. In conclusion, demethoxycurcumin hindered ovarian cancer cells’ malignant progress via up-regulating miR-551a.
Coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 promotes cell growth and is targeted by microRNA-195-5p in human colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Meifeng , Wu Wei , Gao Ming , Zhang Jie , Ding Xinde , Zhu Ronghua , Chen Haiqun , Fei Zhewei
Published: March 2017

The pathogenesis of colorectal cancer remains poorly understood. Here, we show that coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 is frequently upregulated in colorectal cancer tissues and promotes cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Using bioinformatics-based prediction and luciferase reporter system, we found that coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 is post-transcriptionally targeted by microRNA-195-5p in colorectal cancer. Ectopic expression of microRNA-195-5p led to the suppression of the coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 3′-untranslated regions activity and downregulation of the endogenous coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 protein in colorectal cancer cells. Expression analysis verified that microRNA-195-5p was markedly downregulated in human colorectal cancer tissues, which was negatively correlated with the elevated levels of coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 protein. Enhanced levels of microRNA-195-5p in colorectal cancer cells resulted in a sharp reduction of cell proliferative and colony-formative capacities in vitro. Remarkably, restoration of coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 in microRNA-195-5p-transfected colorectal cancer cells partially abrogated the inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation mediated through microRNA-195-5p. These data confirm that microRNA-195-5p might function as an anti-tumor microRNA in colorectal cancer exerting critical control over coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 expression. The newly identified microRNA-195-5p/coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 axis may act as a novel promising therapeutic target for colorectal cancer treatment.
Tumor suppressor miR-29c regulates radioresistance in lung cancer cells
Authors: Arechaga-Ocampo Elena , Lopez-Camarillo Cesar , Villegas-Sepulveda Nicolas , Gonzalez-De la Rosa Claudia H , Perez-Añorve Isidro X , Roldan-Perez Reynalda , Flores-Perez Ali , Peña-Curiel Omar , Angeles-Zaragoza Oscar , Rangel Corona Rosalva , Gonzalez-Barrios Juan A , Bonilla-Moreno Raul , del Moral-Hernandez Oscar , Herrera Luis A , Garcia-Carranca Alejandro
Published: March 2017

Radiotherapy is an important treatment option for non-small cell lung carcinoma patients. Despite the appropriate use of radiotherapy, radioresistance is a biological behavior of cancer cells that limits the efficacy of this treatment. Deregulation of microRNAs contributes to the molecular mechanism underlying resistance to radiotherapy in cancer cells. Although the functional roles of microRNAs have been well described in lung cancer, their functional roles in radioresistance are largely unclear. In this study, we established a non-small cell lung carcinoma Calu-1 radioresistant cell line by continuous exposure to therapeutic doses of ionizing radiation as a model to investigate radioresistance-associated microRNAs. Our data show that 50 microRNAs were differentially expressed in Calu-1 radioresistant cells (16 upregulated and 34 downregulated); furthermore, well-known and novel microRNAs associated with resistance to radiotherapy were identified. Gene ontology and enrichment analysis indicated that modulated microRNAs might regulate signal transduction, cell survival, and apoptosis. Accordingly, Calu-1 radioresistant cells were refractory to radiation by increasing cell survival and reducing the apoptotic response. Among deregulated microRNAs, miR-29c was significantly suppressed. Reestablishment of miR-29c expression in Calu-1 radioresistant cells overcomes the radioresistance through the activation of apoptosis and downregulation of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 target genes. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas revealed that miR-29c is also suppressed in tumor samples of non-small cell lung carcinoma patients. Notably, we found that low miR-29c levels correlated with shorter relapse-free survival of non-small cell lung carcinoma patients treated with radiotherapy. Together, these results indicate a new role of miR-29c in radioresistance, highlighting their potential as a novel biomarker for outcomes of radiotherapy in lung cancer.
MicroRNA-590-3p promotes cell proliferation and invasion by targeting inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II in human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Chen Haiwen , Luo Qidong , Li Hongliang
Published: March 2017

Inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II emerges as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer, and its loss of expression is associated with poor prognosis for prostate cancer. However, the mechanism of downregulation of inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II in prostate cancer development has not yet been fully clarified. In this study, microRNA-590-3p was found to be upregulated in both prostate cancer tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of microRNA-590-3p by microRNA-590-3p mimics promoted prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasion and accelerated the growth of xenografted tumors, while microRNA-590-3p inhibitors contributed to inhibition of cellular proliferation and invasion as well as tumor growth. A dual-luciferase reporter assay and expression analysis further confirmed that inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II was a direct target of microRNA-590-3p. Enforced expression of microRNA-590-3p led to repression of inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II messenger RNA and protein expression, as well as upregulation of p-Akt, p-FoxO3a, and cyclin D1 and downregulation of p21 expression in prostate cancer cell lines. Overexpression of inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II could reduce microRNA-590-3p-induced cell proliferation and invasion as well as tumor growth, and decrease microRNA-590-3p-mediated upregulation of cyclin D1 and downregulation of p21 expression in prostate cancer cells. Taken together, our findings reveal that microRNA-590-3p is a potential onco-microRNA that participates in carcinogenesis of human prostate cancer by suppressing inositol polyphosphate 4-phosphatase type II expression and involving the Akt/FoxO3a pathway. MicroRNA-590-3p may represent a potential therapeutic target for prostate cancer patients.
What about the workers? The implications of Brexit for British and European labour
Authors: Gumbrell-McCormick Rebecca , Hyman Richard
Published: March 2017

In June 2016, a small majority of voters called for Britain to leave the EU. In this article, we discuss the referendum itself and the form which Brexit may take. It has become clear that the current UK government is committed to a ‘hard’ Brexit which will rupture most existing ties with the EU. While much uncertainty remains, there are alarming indications that ‘regaining sovereignty’ – a key slogan of the Brexit campaign – will translate into abject subservience to the most erratic right-wing US administration in history. We examine the implications of Brexit for labour rights in general and for British trade union participation in European Works Councils in particular: there are many reasons for apprehension. We assess the economic and political fall-out, and end by exploring possible consequences for international trade union solidarity in Europe. In general, trade union policy-makers in Europe are committed to resisting ‘divide-and-rule’ strategies by employers, but there will undoubtedly be tensions.
Accounting, slavery and social history: The legacy of an eighteenth-century Portuguese chartered company
Authors: Pinto Ofélia , West Brian
Published: March 2017

Based on extensive archival research, this study documents and analyses the accounting techniques that the Companhia Geral do Grão Pará e Maranhão applied to its slave trading operations during the second half of the eighteenth century. The surviving accounting records of this Portuguese chartered company reveal – in meticulous detail – the integral role that accounting technology played in enabling the slave trade to flourish. However, and paradoxically, while evidencing this culpability the same accounting records also document the essential humanity of the slaves and preserve details of the bleak circumstances of their existence. Slaves are typically lamented as a lost people consigned to a tragic and an eternal anonymity, but it is from accounting records that many aspects of their lives can be reconstructed. In this way, the accounting records studied are also shown to provide a latent source of social history that constitutes a profound mea culpa.
The Lived Experience of Black Nurse Faculty in Predominantly White Schools of Nursing
Authors: Whitfield-Harris Lisa , Lockhart Joan Such , Zoucha Richard , Alexander Rumay
Published: March 2017

Purpose: This study explored the experiences of Black nurse faculty employed in predominantly White schools of nursing. High attrition rates of this group were noted in previous literature. Understanding their experiences is important to increase nurse diversity. Design: Hermeneutic phenomenology was used to explore the experiences of 15 Black nurse faculty using interviews. Findings: Four themes were extracted as the following: cultural norms of the workplace, coping with improper assets, life as a “Lone Ranger,” and surviving the workplace environment. Discussion: The study provided insight to understand the meaning that Black faculty members give to their experiences working in predominantly White schools of nursing. Findings exemplify the need to improve culturally competent work environments and mentoring programs. Implications for Practice: Results suggest that better communication and proper respect from students, colleagues, and administrators are necessary. The limited research on this topic illustrates that Black nurse faculty remain under investigated; research is necessary to determine effective change strategies.
Systematic Review of Racial/Ethnic Outcome Disparities in Home Health Care
Authors: Narayan Mary Curry , Scafide Katherine N.
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Though extensive evidence demonstrates that U.S. minority patients suffer health care disparities, the incidence of disparities among the 3.3 million adult patients receiving skilled intermittent home health care services annually is unclear. The purpose of this systematic review is to determine the relationship of race/ethnicity on home health care patient outcomes. Methodology: PRISMA guidelines were used to perform a systematic search of the literature within the CINHAL, Medline, and Web of Science databases. Search terms included variations on the terms: home health, minority race/ethnicity, and patient outcomes. Included studies evaluated adult patient outcomes to intermittent skilled home health care services from Medicare-certified agencies using federally defined race/ethnicity categories. Research quality was evaluated using the Johns Hopkins Evidence Based Practice Grading Scale. Results: Seven studies were identified in the search. All studies were of good-to-high quality with the majority having large samples. All seven found a significant difference in patient outcomes related to race/ethnicity. Specifically, minority patients had more adverse events, less improvement in functional outcomes, and worse patient experiences when compared with majority patients. Conclusion: Home health care disparities exist and efforts should be made to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate care to all patients.
Focus Groups Investigating Mental Health Attitudes and Beliefs of Parents and Teachers in South Lebanon: Are They Culturally Determined?
Authors: Doumit Myrna A. A. , Farhood Laila F. , Hamady Carmen
Published: March 2017

Introduction: The wars that Lebanon had endured led to a devastating number of deaths, injuries, and displacements. Such tragedies have detrimentally affected its civilians psychologically. Purpose: To identify knowledge, attitudes, and practices of teachers and parents concerning child/adolescent mental health. Method: Using purposeful sampling, five focus groups were conducted with teachers and parents of students from elementary, middle, and secondary levels in two private hub schools in South Lebanon. Results: A total of 27 teachers and 18 parents participated separately in focus groups. Three themes emerged: (a) Mental health care is a priority for overall health, (b) Mental illness is a cultural taboo, and (c) There is a need for better education and cultural understanding about mental health. Discussion: This is the first study in Lebanon directly targeted at parents’ and teachers’ mental health concerns. Such findings will add to transcultural nursing knowledge about the importance of mental health care.
Development of equivalent linear systems for single-degree-of-freedom structures with magneto-rheological dampers for seismic design application
Authors: Chae Yunbyeong , Ricles James M , Sause Richard
Published: March 2017

Numerous studies have been conducted for magneto-rheological dampers, but the application of magneto-rheological dampers in seismic design is limited due to the lack of a systematical design procedure. In this article, a simplified analysis procedure is proposed to estimate the response of a single-degree-of-freedom structure with diagonal bracing and a magneto-rheological damper without performing the time history analysis. The proposed simplified analysis procedure is based on the equivalent linear system of a magneto-rheological damper. The equivalent damping ratio and the effective period of the single-degree-of-freedom system are determined from the loss factor and the effective stiffness of the magneto-rheological damper based on the quasi-static model. Design response spectrum is utilized to calculate the displacement of the single-degree-of-freedom system. The equivalent damping ratio and the effective stiffness of the single-degree-of-freedom system are dependent on the displacement of the system; thus, the proposed procedure is iterated until the displacement from the design response spectrum converges. The accuracy of the simplified analysis procedure is evaluated by comparing the estimated response from this procedure with the response from the time history analysis. The results show a good agreement between two methods, demonstrating the robustness of the proposed simplified analysis procedure.
Integration and evaluation of multiple piezo configurations for optimal health monitoring of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Kaur Naveet , Li Lingfang , Bhalla Suresh , Xia Yong , Ni Pinghe , Adhikari Sailesh
Published: March 2017

Since the last two decades, the electro-mechanical impedance technique has undergone extensive theoretical and experimental transformations coupled with the evolution of newer practical adaptations and variants. Notable among these are the metal wire–based variant, the dual piezo configuration and the embedded configuration, over and above the conventional surface-bonded configuration. Although there is a plethora of electro-mechanical impedance–related research devoted to metallic structures, only a limited number of studies are available for reinforced concrete structures, which are characterized by more complex behaviour and pose multiple problems for the electro-mechanical impedance sensors such as small range and high damping due to heterogeneous constitution. This article presents, for the first time, a comprehensive comparative study covering four different variants, namely, the surface-bonded single piezo configuration, the embedded single piezo configuration and the metal wire single piezo configuration in electro-mechanical impedance technique for structural health monitoring of a real-life-sized reinforced concrete beam subjected to destructive testing. The article also proposes a modified and more practical version of the dual piezo configuration called the modified dual piezo configuration, employing concrete vibration sensors. It is found that the modified dual piezo configuration is the most expedient among all variants in capturing the damage with respect to the first occurrence of cracks and the final warning of ultimate failure. Metal wire single piezo configuration is good in detecting the first level of damage; however, its efficiency ceases thereafter when crack size increases. It can be considered as an alternative to surface-bonded single piezo configuration in the scenarios where the damage level is incipient. The sensitivity of the modified dual piezo configuration increases with increasing number of actuators connected in parallel due to an increase in the output current. Also, contrary to the surface-bonded single piezo configuration, the susceptance signature of the modified dual piezo configuration is equally sensitive to damage due to the absence of capacitance part in its admittance signature. Hence, its susceptance can also be used for damage severity measurement for incipient damage level in reinforced concrete structures. The surface-bonded single piezo configuration is found to be best in quantifying damage severity in terms of the equivalent stiffness parameter. Embedded single piezo configuration and metal wire single piezo configuration, on the other hand, correlate well with the global dynamic stiffness of the structure. Overall, the proposed integration enables an early detection of damage, its propagation and improved severity measurement for reinforced concrete structures, thus contributing to new application protocols.
Design enhancement and non-dimensional analysis of magnetically-levitated nonlinear vibration energy harvesters
Authors: Nammari Abdullah , Bardaweel Hamzeh
Published: March 2017

Over the past decade, there has been special interest in developing nonlinear energy harvesters capable of operating over a wideband frequency spectrum. Chief among the nonlinear energy harvesting techniques is magnetic levitation–based energy harvesting. Nonetheless, current nonlinear magnetic levitation–based energy harvesting approaches encapsulate design challenges. This work investigates some of the design issues and limitations faced by traditional magnetic levitation–based energy harvesters such as damping schemes and stiffness nonlinearities. Both experiment and model are used to quantify and evaluate damping regimes and stiffness nonlinearities present in magnetic levitation–based energy harvesters. Results show that dry friction, mostly ignored in magnetic levitation–based energy harvesting literature, contributes to the overall energy dissipation. Measured and modeled magnetic forces–displacement curves suggest that stiffness nonlinearities are weak over moderate distances. An enhanced design utilizing a combination of mechanical and magnetic springs is introduced to overcome some of these limitations. A non-dimensional model of the proposed design is developed and used to investigate the enhanced architecture. The unique potential energy profile suggests that the proposed nonlinear energy harvester outperforms the linear version by steepening the displacement response and shifting the resonance frequency, resulting in a larger bandwidth for which power can be harvested.
Revisiting the Continuing Bonds Theory: The Cultural Uniqueness of the Bei Dao Phenomenon in Taiwanese Widows/Widowers
Authors: Lee Wan-Lin , Hou Yi-Chen , Lin Yaw-Sheng
Published: March 2017

In the present study, we used the phenomenological approach to rediscover the ontological meaning of relationships with the deceased in Taiwanese widows/widowers. We first revised the original Western definitions of grief, bereavement, and mourning to fit Taiwanese culture. We used the word bei dao to indicate the mixed nature of grief and mourning in the Taiwanese bereavement process. Then we reanalyzed data from a previous study, which was conducted in 2006. In the previous qualitative research, each subject was interviewed 3 to 4 times in the mourning state over an 18-month interval that began at the point of the spouse’s death. Results showed that two main themes emerged in the present analysis: (a) a blurred boundary of life and death and (b) a transformation of ethical bonds. The present study reveals the culturally unique aspects of the Taiwanese bei dao process. Limitations of the present study and future directions are discussed and reflected.
Using E-Books to Acquire Foundational Academic Vocabulary
Authors: Love Matthew L. , Spies Tracy G. , Morgan Joseph J.
Published: March 2017

Secondary students identified as English language learners or with learning disabilities present diverse vocabulary and academic challenges related to their exceptional language needs. Limited academic vocabulary may hinder students in accessing academic content and serve as a barrier to achievement. The literature has documented the use of multimedia-delivered instruction as a support in the development of content area academic vocabulary. One such tool, electronic books (i.e., e-books), can be an effective multimedia resource used to supplement standards-based instruction and preteach content area vocabulary specifically designed for students with exceptional language needs. This article describes methods for analyzing content standards and developing differentiated e-books to preteach academic vocabulary to support students with exceptional language needs in acquiring foundational academic vocabulary. The selection and use of specific tools based on students’ academic and linguistic needs will also be illustrated.
A Bitter Pill? Institutional Corruption and the Challenge of Antibribery Compliance in the Pharmaceutical Sector
Authors: David-Barrett Elizabeth , Yakis-Douglas Basak , Moss-Cowan Amanda , Nguyen Yen
Published: March 2017

We investigate why top-down directives aimed at eradicating corruption are ineffective at altering on-the-ground practices for organizations that have adopted industry-wide “gold standards” to prevent bribery and corruption. Using interview and focus group data collected from leading multinational pharmaceutical firms, we unearth antecedents contributing to organizations’ systemic failure to embed their anticorruption policies in business practice. We identify two tensions that contribute to this disconnect: a culture clash between global and local norms, especially in emerging markets and a similar disconnect between the compliance and commercial functions. To overcome these tensions, we suggest that organizations are likely to find it easier to implement a no gifts policy if they cease to rely on local agents embedded in local norms and that there needs to be strong evidence of board-level commitment to antibribery programs, innovative ways of incentivizing compliant behavior, and a fundamental rethinking of organizations’ business model and remuneration practices.
Dysregulation of Tissue Factor, Thrombin-Activatable Fibrinolysis Inhibitor, and Fibrinogen in Patients Undergoing Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Wanderling Christopher , Liles Jeffrey , Finkler Elissa , Carlsgaard Peter , Hopkinson William , Guler Nil , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed
Published: March 2017

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) of the hip or knee (THA, TKA) has become an increasingly common procedure. While TJA is a successful treatment for individuals experiencing degenerative joint diseases, it is well known that one of the most common perioperative complications of TJA is deep venous thrombosis (DVT). To profile tissue factor (TF), microparticle-tissue factor (MP-TF), thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), and fibrinogen levels in patients undergoing TJA to determine potential preexisting Hemostatic dysregulation. De-identified blood samples were obtained from patients undergoing TJA 1 day pre- and 1 day postprocedure. Plasma samples were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits for fibrinogen, TAFI, TF, and MP-TF; fibrinogen levels were also assessed using a clot-based activity assay. In comparison with healthy controls, there were significant increases of fibrinogen and MP-TF levels, while there were significant decreases in TF and TAFI levels in the preoperative and postoperative patients. Comparing the pre versus postoperative patients, no significant differences were found; interestingly, however, surgical intervention exacerbated the changes found in the preoperative samples compared to the controls. The results of this study confirm that patients undergoing TJA have preexisting alterations in the fibrinolytic system. Surgical intervention tended to exacerbate these changes. The alterations observed in this study may provide insight as to why TJA is associated with higher rates of DVT and thromboembolism.
Rasburicase-induced methemoglobinemia: The eyes do not see what the mind does not know
Authors: Ibrahim Uroosa , Saqib Amina , Mohammad Farhan , Atallah Jean Paul , Odaimi Marcel
Published: March 2017

Rasburicase is indicated for the prevention and treatment of tumor lysis syndrome which can be a potentially life-threatening emergency. The drug has oxidizing potential and as an adverse effect, it can convert the ferrous form of iron in erythrocytes to its ferric form resulting in the formation of methemoglobin which makes the heme component incapable of carrying oxygen. Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme deficiency are at high risk of methemoglobinemia from oxidizing agents. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia range from none to life-threatening hypoxemia, cyanosis and respiratory compromise. Treatment is indicated at levels above 20% and at lower levels if the patient is significantly anemic. We present a case of a 60-year-old male with diffuse large B cell lymphoma at high risk of tumor lysis syndrome. Rasburicase was administered to prevent renal failure and further rise in uric acid. Twenty-four hours later, a bedside pulse oximetry showed an oxygen saturation ranging from 60 to 65% with minimal cyanosis. Co-oximetry revealed a methemoglobin level of 9.8%. Methylene blue was administered and the methemoglobin level decreased to 2.6%. However, the patient developed hemolysis several hours later, likely secondary to rasburicase and methylene blue, requiring transfusion support. We discuss this potentially fatal and initially asymptomatic adverse effect of rasburicase along with diagnostic and treatment considerations, and review the cases described in the current literature.
Interconversions between linear viscoelastic functions with a time-dependent bulk modulus
Authors: Chen Dao-Long , Chiu Tz-Cheng , Chen Tei-Chen , Yang Ping-Feng , Jian Sheng-Rui
Published: March 2017

The interconversion relations for viscoelastic functions are derived with the consideration of the time-dependent bulk modulus, K( t), for both traditional and fractional Prony series representations of viscoelasticity. The application of these relations is to replace the fitting parameters of Young’s relaxation modulus, E( t), by the unknown parameters of K( t) and the known parameters of the shear relaxation modulus, G( t), and to fit the E( t) to the experimental data for obtaining the parameters of K( t). The fitting results show that only two experiments for measuring the viscoelastic functions of an isotropic material are not enough to determine the other viscoelastic functions. However, if we consider the relaxation rates of K( t) and G( t), we may conclude that the constant bulk modulus is a more reasonable assumption, and the corresponding Poisson’s ratio, ν( t), is a monotonic-increasing function.
METADOCK: A parallel metaheuristic schema for virtual screening methods
Authors: Imbernón Baldomero , Cecilia José M , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Giménez Domingo
Published: March 2017

Virtual screening through molecular docking can be translated into an optimization problem, which can be tackled with metaheuristic methods. The interaction between two chemical compounds (typically a protein, enzyme or receptor, and a small molecule, or ligand) is calculated by using highly computationally demanding scoring functions that are computed at several binding spots located throughout the protein surface. This paper introduces METADOCK, a novel molecular docking methodology based on parameterized and parallel metaheuristics and designed to leverage heterogeneous computers based on heterogeneous architectures. The application decides the optimization technique at running time by setting a configuration schema. Our proposed solution finds a good workload balance via dynamic assignment of jobs to heterogeneous resources which perform independent metaheuristic executions when computing different molecular interactions required by the scoring functions in use. A cooperative scheduling of jobs optimizes the quality of the solution and the overall performance of the simulation, so opening a new path for further developments of virtual screening methods on high-performance contemporary heterogeneous platforms.
Implementation and evaluation of the HPC challenge benchmark in the XcalableMP PGAS language
Authors: Nakao Masahiro , Murai Hitoshi , Iwashita Hidetoshi , Boku Taisuke , Sato Mitsuhisa
Published: March 2017

To improve productivity for developing parallel applications on high performance computing systems, the XcalableMP PGAS language has been proposed. XcalableMP supports both a typical parallelization under the “global-view memory model” which uses directives and a flexible parallelization under the “local-view memory model” which uses coarray features. The goal of the present paper is to clarify XcalableMP’s productivity and performance. To do so, we implement and evaluate the high performance computing challenge benchmark, namely, EP STREAM Triad, High Performance Linpack, Global fast Fourier transform, and RandomAccess on the K computer using up to 16,384 compute nodes and a generic cluster system using up to 128 compute nodes. We found that we could more easily implement the benchmarks using XcalableMP rather than using MPI. Moreover, most of the performance results using XcalableMP were almost the same as those using MPI.
An adaptive offline implementation selector for heterogeneous parallel platforms
Authors: del Rio Astorga David , Dolz Manuel F , Sánchez Luis Miguel , Fernández Javier , García J Daniel
Published: March 2017

Heterogeneous parallel platforms, comprising multiple processing units and architectures, have become a cornerstone in improving the overall performance and energy efficiency of scientific and engineering applications. Nevertheless, taking full advantage of their resources comes along with a variety of difficulties: developers require technical expertise in using different parallel programming frameworks and previous knowledge about the algorithms used underneath by the application. To alleviate this burden, we present an adaptive offline implementation selector that allows users to better exploit resources provided by heterogeneous platforms. Specifically, this framework selects, at compile time, the tuple device-implementation that delivers the best performance on a given platform. The user interface of the framework leverages two C++ language features: attributes and concepts. To evaluate the benefits of this framework, we analyse the global performance and convergence of the selector using two different use cases. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed framework allows users enhancing performance while minimizing efforts to tune applications targeted to heterogeneous platforms. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that our framework delivers comparable performance figures with respect to other approaches.
An Investigation of Multitiered Behavioral Interventions on Disruptive Behavior and Academic Engagement of Elementary Students
Authors: Bunch-Crump Kimberly R. , Lo Ya-yu
Published: March 2017

This study examined the effects of a multitiered system of support using Check-In Check-Out (CICO) as a secondary intervention and function-based self-monitoring (FBSM) as a tertiary intervention on the disruptive behavior and academic engagement of four elementary students identified as being in need of additional behavioral supports. A multiple baseline across participants’ design was conducted to evaluate the effects of CICO and a reversal design was used to evaluate the additive effects of FBSM with one participant whose behavior was determined nonresponsive to CICO due to variability and minimal change in disruptive behavior. Results indicate a reduction in disruptive behavior and increased academic engagement for three participants upon introduction of CICO. Evaluations of the FBSM intervention were rendered inconclusive; however, preliminary data revealed a decrease in trend and level of disruptive behavior for the participant receiving tertiary support.
“But they were never only the master’s tools”: the use of photography in de-colonial praxis
Authors: Pedri-Spade Celeste
Published: March 2017

The majority of anthropological literature around photography of Indigenous peoples has privileged the actions, agency, and intent of the Western photographer. While one cannot ignore the significant colonizing influences that photographs have had on Indigenous peoples, one cannot presume that these individuals were solely the silenced subject or victim in a one-sided, inferior relationship with the camera and its operator. Recent scholarship is now re-examining the relationship Indigenous peoples have had with photography as a culturally productive technology since its development. In this article, I will address the role of photography in a global context as an object and a method of decolonization in two ways: (a) through archived collections of colonial photography and (b) in the production of contemporary photographs by peoples who experience contemporary colonialism. In both of these contexts, I will explore how various populations or communities with a colonial history use photography to confront ongoing legacies of colonialism, particularly in agendas aimed at repairing and reconfiguring relationships with self, family and kin, colonizer, community, and the natural world. Drawing on examples from several countries and locales, I will address the potentials and challenges of reframing Indigenous peoples’ experience of, and relationship with, photography within the context of de-colonial praxis.
Decolonising management knowledge: A reflexive journey as practitioner and researcher in Uganda
Authors: Girei Emanuela
Published: March 2017

In the past decade, much research has critically addressed the Westocentric character of management knowledge, highlighting its role in the reproduction of global and historical inequalities and power asymmetries between the west (especially Anglo-American contexts) and the rest of the world. Many of these revealing critiques have predominantly taken a theoretical orientation. This article addresses this gap, focusing on the search for methodologies and research practices sensitive to these critiques and committed to supporting efforts to decolonise management knowledge. More precisely, on the basis of my empirical work in Uganda as an organisation development advisor and researcher, this research illustrates and reflects on the challenges I faced in the field and how I addressed them in my effort to decolonise my methodological approach. In this sense, this article provides an empirically-grounded example of how it is possible to take into account sensitivities coming from postcolonialism, critical management and critical development studies, intellectual streams usually known for their alleged distance from research practice and practical action.
Characterization of interface stresses and lubrication of rough elastic surfaces under ball-on-disc rolling
Authors: Wu Chuhan , Zhang Liangchi , Qu Peilei , Li Shanqing , Jiang Zhenglian , Liu Weidong
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a statistical method for characterizing the interface stresses between an elastic rough ball and a smooth rigid disc under lubrication by considering the percolation effect of lubricant flow. The statistical analysis was carried out to integrate the random, microscopic asperity deformation with the asperity–lubricant interaction. An efficient solution process with the aid of the fast Fourier transform was developed for the multi-scale analysis. To avoid numerical instability, the Poiseuille term of the average Reynolds equation was turned off when the average lubricant film thickness was below the percolation threshold and the average hydrodynamic pressure was solved by using the Couette term. This successfully overcomes the limitation in the conventional statistical treatment of mixed lubrication. Moreover, it enables a smooth transition from mixed to boundary lubrication and allows a large range of dimensionless rolling speed, which cannot be achieved by conventional approaches. Also, an empirical formula was developed to evaluate the average central and minimum film thicknesses between lubricated rough surfaces in contact. It was found that the method developed can precisely predict the effect of surface roughness on contact stresses, can effectively estimate the contribution of the direct asperity–disc contacts, and can be used to describe the lubricant performance at a rolling–sliding contact interface.
Investigation of indoor air quality at urban schools in Qatar
Authors: Abdel-Salam Mahmoud M. M.
Published: March 2017

Information about indoor conditions of classrooms in Qatari schools is very scarce and availability of indoor air quality (IAQ) data is important as children are vulnerable to health hazards and spend long times in classrooms. Therefore, IAQ was investigated in 16 mechanically ventilated schools in Qatar during the winter season. Parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and particulate matters (PM10 and PM2.5) were measured indoors and outdoors simultaneously. High indoor CO2 and PM concentrations were found in many classrooms and exceeded the ASHRAE standard and US-EPA air quality standards as there are currently no established IAQ standards in Qatar. The mean indoor CO2 concentration in all classrooms was 1776 ± 887 ppm with mean indoor/outdoor ratio of 3.89 ± 2.03. The mean indoor PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations were 93.2 ± 42.4 µg/m3 and 60.1 ± 28.8 µg/m3, respectively. High indoor PM concentrations were found to be highly influenced by outdoor levels. Mean indoor/outdoor ratios for PM10 and PM2.5 in all classrooms were 0.87 ± 0.43 and 0.80 ± 0.34, respectively. The current study also identified many factors associated with increased indoor levels of PM. According to results of this study, some recommendations were suggested to reduce exposure of school children to high indoor levels of these pollutants as well as to provide comfortable learning environments.
State-level estimates of the number of volunteer police in the United States
Authors: Dobrin Adam
Published: March 2017

To effectively develop and evaluate policing policies and practices, researchers and stakeholders need to know the numbers of volunteer police officers. Limited national estimates exist in the United States, but have shortcomings. This study collects state-level counts of volunteer police from all 50 states (and the District of Columbia), and finds that relying on state-level counts of volunteer police officers is not an effective way of capturing this information. The implications are discussed and a solution is suggested.