bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpreting the Customary Rules on Interpretation
Authors: Merkouris Panos
Published: March 2017

International courts have at times interpreted the customary rules on interpretation. This is interesting because what is being interpreted is: i) rules of interpretation, which sounds dangerously tautological, and ii) customary law, the interpretation of which has not been the object of critical analysis. The present paper, aims to fill this lacuna and prove that not only interpretation of customary rules of interpretation is not problematic (it is neither tautological nor impossible), but also that it is a process completely distinguishable from that of formation/identification of customary international law. Whereas the latter determines the existence of a customary rule and has to grapple with ‘practice’ and ‘opinio juris’, interpretation of customary rules concerns itself with the rules after they have come into existence. I will then demonstrate that customary rules of interpretation have consistently been interpreted in international jurisprudence and that the interpretative process bears certain similarities to treaty interpretation.
Trauma as Archetype, Terror as Arsenal
Authors: Akhuemokhan Sophia
Published: March 2017

The essay traces the changing manifestations of trauma in Nigerian prose, focusing on Ken Saro-Wiwa’s autobiography A Month and a Day: A Detention Diary. The autobiography lies at a crucial nexus in the drift of trauma in narrative, an era during which trauma ceases to adopt pre-historical forms and is officially assembled into terrorist weaponry. Trauma in A Month and a Day results from state terrorism—it is transparently political, and is thereby a link between the archetypes of trauma that precede it and the sub-state terrorism that comes in its wake. The essay concludes that Saro-Wiwa’s diary is a milestone on the route from personal trauma to the trauma of state terrorism in Nigerian testimony.
Digital Disruption in Asia
Authors: Hicks Jacqueline
Published: March 2017

This introduction to the fourth special issue ofAsiascape: Digital Asiadiscusses the complex interactions between technology and society in the context of ‘digital Asia’. The special issue is drawn from contributions to a conference held in May 2016 titled ‘Digital Disruption in Asia: Methods and Issues’. Inspired by the idea that the use of digital technologies is shaking up some major political and economic institutions, the conference aimed to see whether some of the same processes were playing out across Asia. But while the wording of its title focused on the impact of digital technologies in Asian societies, what emerged were much more complex stories detailing the different ways the technologies are used in their offline contexts. This introduction traces these stories, identifying some common elements of digitality that range from constant connectivity, to mobility, speed, and the potential to break down social and even disciplinary boundaries.
Pacific Itineraries: Islands and Oceanic Imaginaries in Contemporary Asian American Art
Authors: Machida Margo L.
Published: March 2017

This essay focuses on the Asia Pacific region and selected works by contemporaryus-based Asian American artists that engage shared themes of trans-Pacific journeys, circulation, conflict, and convergence between Asian diasporic, Indigenous, and other groups. The Pacific, with more islands than the world’s other oceans combined, is above all an island realm. Accordingly islands and associated oceanic imaginaries exert a powerful hold on works by artists who trace their ancestral origins to coastal East and Southeast Asia and Oceania. These artists’ endeavours underscore the idea of islands as multi-located historic and affective subjects within global systems of cross-cultural exchange. Through the different levels of focalization they provide, the featured artworks render insights into the formation of complex, multiple points of attachment as contemporary artists cross and re-cross borders: physical, temporal, and psychic.
Looking Back at Samoa: History, Memory, and the Figure of Mourning in Yuki Kihara’s Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?
Authors: Treagus Mandy , Seys Madeleine
Published: March 2017

Samoan Japanese artist Yuki Kihara’s photographic series Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going? (2013) focuses on sites of current and historical significance in Samoa. In taking on the title of French artist Paul Gauguin’s 1897 work, Kihara signals her desire to engage with the history of representation of the Pacific in Western art through dialogue with Gauguin and the history of colonial photography. Casting herself as a version of Thomas Andrew’s Samoan Half Caste (1886), a figure in Victorian mourning dress, she directs the viewer’s gaze and invites all to share her acts of mourning at these sites. The literal meaning of the title also indicates how the series engages with history via the Samoan concept of vā, collapsing time in space, to produce an understanding of both the country’s present and the potential future such history invites.
Another Justice—Litigation Masters in the Chinese Legal Story
Authors: Hu Lung-Lung
Published: March 2017

Ronald Dworkin offered the legal theory which is known as a “chain enterprise”. According to this theory, throughout history, judges have, collectively, created a “law” that was designed to fulfil a specific purpose. Those judges can be seen as co-authors who, together, develop a chain-story. As such they not only create freely but also are constrained by the story made by authors, in this case judges, who have come before them. The law created by Chinese traditional judges is another case: compared with the judges mentioned by Ronald Dworkin, they have relatively narrower parameters of discretion in which they may implement a legal sentence. The limited amount of discretion available to an individual judge is due to the way in which, traditionally, the legal framework has been designed. The fact that traditional Chinese law was first conceived of as a penal code leaves little room for a judge to subjectively interpret a statute. Furthermore, because law is representative of the authority of the government, i.e. the emperor, any misinterpretation will be considered as a challenge to the supreme power. Conversely, while judges are bound by restrictive parameters with regard to the interpretation of the law, a Chinese litigation master (Songshi) who wishes to receive a favorable outcome for his client must be willing to challenge a judge’s narrow interpretation of the law. Conversely, while judges are bound by restrictive parameters with regard to the interpretation of the law, aSongshiwho wishes to receive a favorable outcome for his client must be willing to challenge a judge’s narrow interpretation of the law. According to Stanley Fish’s articles that question Ronald Dworkin and Owen Fiss’ ideas about law, Fish construes that, since law is made of language, law is open to interpretations that cannot be constrained by any rules or any particular legal purposes. Stanley Fish’s idea can also be applied to the analysis of the stories ofSongshiin traditional Chinese literature. The legal opinions ofSongshiin traditional Chinese literature can be regarded as an unexpected event that calls for revision of the standardized concept of law propagated in legal stories. Although they are not welcome, neither by the officials and nor by society, their existence is still a phenomenon representing another version of justice different from the standardized concept of justice and can be seen as a de-structural power to the government. Hence, in this present paper the language and strategy applied bySongshiin Chinese legal stories will be analysed to see how they refute legal judgments and challenge the standardized concept of justice.
A new genus and four new species of subfamily Cyclocypridinae (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from Thailand
Authors: SAVATENALINTON SUKONTHIP
Published: March 2017

A new genus, Dentocypria n. gen., in the subfamily Cyclocypridinae Kaufmann, 1900 is described from Thailand. The main distinguishing characters of the new genus are the presence of an internal tooth on the antero-ventral part of the left valve, the marginal tubercles on the right valve, the very elongated terminal segment of the madibular palp, the absence of setae on the basal segment of the second thoracopod (T2), the unusually long e-seta of T2, the short terminal segment of the third thoracopod (T3), the long Sp seta of the caudal ramus and the morphology of prehensile palps and hemipenis. Four new species of the new genus are here described: Dentocypria mesquitai n. gen. n. sp., Dentocypria chantaranothaii n. gen. n. sp., Dentocypria smithi n. gen. n. sp. and Dentocypria aequiloba n. gen. n. sp. A brief discussion on the generic characters and a key to the genera of the subfamily are provided.
A new species of Leuctra from Turkey, and notes on Anatolian Rhabdiopteryx (Plecoptera: Leuctridae & Taeniopterygidae)
Authors: MURÁNYI DÁVID , VINÇON GILLES
Published: March 2017

In the recent annotated catalogue of the Turkish Plecoptera, the fauna of Anatolia are considered remarkably rich with 32 micro-endemic species currently recorded (Darilmaz et al. 2016). The major hot spot is the Pontus, the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. Nearly half of these micro-endemic stonefly species are only known from this region. The eastern subregion of the Pontus has a direct connection with the Caucasian stonefly fauna. This subregion even has an endemic species group of Leuctra Stephens, 1836, presently including four known species (Vinçon & Sivec 2001).
The Relationship between Tropical Cyclones at Genesis and Their Maximum Attained Intensity
Authors: Ditchek Sarah D. , Nelson T. Connor , Rosenmayer Michaela , Corbosiero Kristen L.
Published: March 2017

Despite recent improvements made to tropical cyclone intensity predictions, this study investigates a different approach than those attempted thus far. Here, the overall environmental setup at genesis is evaluated to determine whether it predisposes a storm to reach its future maximum intensity. Variables retrieved from ERA-Interim are used to generate storm-centered composites at the time of genesis for Atlantic basin, main development region TCs from 1979–2015. Composites are stratified by their maximum attained intensity: tropical depressions (GTD), tropical storms (GTS), minor hurricanes (GMN), or major hurricanes (GMJ). A multiple-parameter linear regression is then used to associate the eventual attained intensity of tropical cyclone to the obtained variables at genesis. The regression has an adjusted r2 of 0.39, which indicates that a statistical relationship is present. Regression coefficients, along with the spatial distribution of variables in the storm-centered composites, indicate that storms that reach higher intensities are associated at genesis with stronger, more compact, low-level vortices, better-defined outflow jets, a more compact region of high midlevel relative humidity, and higher atmospheric water vapor content.
Surface Wave Effects on the Wind-Power Input to Mixed Layer Near-Inertial Motions
Authors: Liu Guoqiang , Perrie William , Hughes Colin
Published: March 2017

Ocean surface waves play an essential role in a number of processes that modulate the momentum fluxes through the air–sea interface. In this study, the effects of evolving surface waves on the wind-power input (WPI) to near-inertial motions (NIMs) are examined by using momentum fluxes from a spectral wave model and a simple slab ocean mixed layer model. Single-point numerical experiments show that, without waves, the WPI and the near-inertial kinetic energy (NI-KE) are overestimated by about 20% and 40%, respectively. Globally, the overestimate in WPI is about 10% during 2005–08. The largest surface wave effects occur in the winter storm-track regions in the midlatitude northwestern Atlantic, Pacific, and in the Southern Ocean, corresponding to large inverse wave age and rapidly varying strong winds. A relatively low frequency of occurrence of wind sea is found in the midlatitudes, which implies that the influence of evolving surface waves on WPI is intermittent, occurring less than 10% of the total time but making up the dominant contributions to reductions in WPI. Given the vital role of NIMs in diapycnal mixing at the base of the mixed layer and the deep ocean, the present study suggests that it is necessary to include the effects of surface waves on the momentum flux, for example, in studies of coupled ocean–atmosphere dynamics or climate models.
Assessing the Ensemble Predictability of Precipitation Forecasts for the January 2015 and 2016 East Coast Winter Storms
Authors: Greybush Steven J. , Saslo Seth , Grumm Richard
Published: March 2017

The ensemble predictability of the January 2015 and 2016 East Coast winter storms is assessed, with model precipitation forecasts verified against observational datasets. Skill scores and reliability diagrams indicate that the large ensemble spread produced by operational forecasts was warranted given the actual forecast errors imposed by practical predictability limits. For the 2015 storm, uncertainties along the western edge’s sharp precipitation gradient are linked to position errors of the coastal low, which are traced to the positioning of the preceding 500-hPa wave pattern using the ensemble sensitivity technique. Predictability horizon diagrams indicate the forecast lead time in terms of initial detection, emergence of a signal, and convergence of solutions for an event. For the 2016 storm, the synoptic setup was detected at least 6 days in advance by global ensembles, whereas the predictability of mesoscale features is limited to hours. Convection-permitting WRF ensemble forecasts downscaled from the GEFS resolve mesoscale snowbands and demonstrate sensitivity to synoptic and mesoscale ensemble perturbations, as evidenced by changes in location and timing. Several perturbation techniques are compared, with stochastic techniques [the stochastic kinetic energy backscatter scheme (SKEBS) and stochastically perturbed parameterization tendency (SPPT)] and multiphysics configurations improving performance of both the ensemble mean and spread over the baseline initial conditions/boundary conditions (IC/BC) perturbation run. This study demonstrates the importance of ensembles and convective-allowing models for forecasting and decision support for east coast winter storms.
Patient Feedback Requirements for Medical Students: Do Perceived Risks Outweigh the Benefits?
Authors: Chua Ian S. , Bogetz Alyssa L.
Published: March 2017

Patient feedback has increasingly become part of medical students’ training and formative assessment. We conducted a qualitative study using focus groups to explore students’ experiences soliciting patient feedback, including the benefits, challenges, and potential strategies to obtain it. Fifteen medical students participated. Thematic analysis revealed students’ (1) discomfort soliciting feedback and concern of being viewed as self-serving; (2) concerns about eroding patient trust; (3) indifference to nonspecific, positive feedback; and (4) belief that informally solicited feedback is most helpful for their learning. Strategies for soliciting more useful patient feedback included (1) team-based solicitation, (2) empowering patients as teachers, and (3) development of feedback instruments that allow patients to comment on specific student-identified learning goals. Solicitation of patient feedback is challenging for medical students and provokes discomfort. Strategies to integrate patient feedback into medical student training and assessment must attend to students’ needs so the value of patient feedback can be realized.
Why study EU foreign policy at all? A response to Keuleers, Fonck and Keukeleire
Authors: Dijkstra Hylke , Vanhoonacker Sophie
Published: March 2017

In an important article on the state of European Union (EU) foreign policy research, Keuleers, Fonck and Keukeleire show that academics excessively focus on the study of the EU foreign policy system and EU implementation rather than the consequences of EU foreign policy for recipient countries. While the article is empirical, based on a dataset of 451 published articles on EU foreign policy, the normative message is that it is time to stop ‘navel-gazing’ and pay more attention to those on the receiving end of EU foreign policy. We welcome this contribution, but wonder why certain research questions have been privileged over others. We argue that this has primarily to do with the predominant puzzles of the time. We also invite Keuleers, Fonck and Keukeleire to make a theoretical case for a research agenda with more attention to outside-in approaches. We conclude by briefly reflecting on future research agendas in EU foreign policy.
Revitalized or Disorganized? Unpacking the Immigration-Crime Link in a Multiethnic Setting
Authors: Sydes Michelle
Published: March 2017

Objective:

To date, much of what we know about the immigration–crime link is based on the United States setting. Yet, contextual features unique to the United States may produce distinct outcomes for immigration and crime that do not hold elsewhere. This study therefore tests the applicability of ecological frameworks largely derived from the United States experience (such as the immigration revitalization thesis) in a country with a greater mixture of ethnic groups and where immigration policy is focused on recruiting skilled immigrants.

Methods:

Utilizing an innovative hybrid modeling approach, this article draws on three waves of census data and nine years of official recorded crime incident data to examine the effect of immigration on violent crime across 882 neighborhoods located in two Australian cities.

Results:

The results offer little evidence that neighborhoods with a greater concentration of immigrants have more crime or that increases in the immigrant population over time are associated with increased violence. Diversity however appears to have a more problematic effect on violent crime in both cities.

Conclusions:

While these findings are relatively consistent with previous research in the United States, whether this similarity is due to a process of revitalization requires further investigation.
The moral self: Class, narcissism and the problem of do-it-yourself moralities
Authors: Hookway Nicholas
Published: March 2017

This article is a qualitative exploration of how contemporary morality is understood and constructed using Australian blog and interview data. A key finding is that the bloggers articulate morality as an actively created and autonomous do-it-yourself project that prioritises the subjective authority and authenticity of the self. While the blog stories do lend support to charges of narcissism, this is partly a product of bloggers misidentifying their own evaluative practices. In the interview accounts they tend to describe morality in subjectivist terms – I do what I believe/think/feel is right – but in their blogged accounts, they highlight a relational and responsive morality which attends to the Other and the situation. Further, the article highlights how the bloggers are producing a particular classed model of selfhood and moral reflexivity where they have access to the resources to self-tell as choosing and self-responsible subjects.
The politics of urban renewal in Sydney’s residential apartment market
Authors: Troy Laurence
Published: March 2017

Australia has long had a deeply speculative housing property market. Arguably this has been accentuated in recent years as successive governments have privileged private-sector investment in housing property as the key mechanism for delivering housing and a concurrent winding back of direct government support for housing. This has occurred through a period in which urban renewal and flexible planning regulation have become the key focus of urban planning policy to deliver on compact city ambitions in the name of sustainability. There has been a tendency to read many of the higher density housing outcomes as a relatively homogenous component of the housing market. There has been a comparative lack of critical engagement with differentiated spatial, physical and socio-economic outcomes within the higher density housing market. This paper will explore the interactions between flexible design-based planning policies, the local property market and physical outcomes. Different parts of the property development industry produced distinctive social and physical outcomes within the same regulatory space. Each response was infused with similar politics of exclusion and privilege in which capacity to pay regulated both access and standard of housing accessible, opening new socio-economic divisions within Australia’s housing landscape.
Development and Validation of the Elder Learning Barriers Scale Among Older Chinese Adults
Authors: Wang Renfeng , De Donder Liesbeth , De Backer Free , He Tao , Van Regenmortel Sofie , Li Shihua , Lombaerts Koen
Published: March 2017

This study describes the development and validation of the Elder Learning Barriers (ELB) scale, which seeks to identify the obstacles that affect the level of educational participation of older adults. The process of item pool design and scale development is presented, as well as the testing and scale refinement procedure. The data were collected from a sample of 579 older Chinese adults (aged over 55) in the Xi’an region of China. After randomly splitting the sample for cross-validation purposes, the construct validity of the ELB scale was confirmed containing five dimensions: dispositional, informational, physical, situational, and institutional barriers. Furthermore, developmental differences in factor structure have been examined among older age groups. The results indicated that the scale demonstrated good reliability and validity. We conclude in general that the ELB scale appears to be a valuable instrument for examining the learning barriers that older Chinese citizens experience for participating in organized educational activities.
Hybrid consensus sigma point approximation nonlinear filter using statistical linearization
Authors: Wang Guoqing , Li Ning , Zhang Yonggang
Published: March 2017

In this paper, a hybrid consensus sigma point approximation nonlinear filter is proposed for state estimation in collaborative sensor network, where hybrid consensus of both measurement and information is utilised. Statistical linearization of nonlinear functions is used in sigma point filters, that is, unscented Kalman filter (UKF), cubature Kalman filter (CKF), and central difference Kalman filter (CDKF). Stability of the proposed algorithm is also analysed with the help of linearization operation and some conservative assumptions. Two typical target tracking examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithms are more stable than existing algorithms, and among our proposed algorithms, CKF- and CDKF-based algorithms are more accurate and stable than the UKF-based one.
Burning mouth syndrome
Authors: Jääskeläinen Satu K , Woda Alain
Published: March 2017

Objective

To review the clinical entity of primary burning mouth syndrome (BMS), its pathophysiological mechanisms, accurate new diagnostic methods and evidence-based treatment options, and to describe novel lines for future research regarding aetiology, pathophysiology, and new therapeutic strategies.

Description

Primary BMS is a chronic neuropathic intraoral pain condition that despite typical symptoms lacks clear clinical signs of neuropathic involvement. With advanced diagnostic methods, such as quantitative sensory testing of small somatosensory and taste afferents, neurophysiological recordings of the trigeminal system, and peripheral nerve blocks, most BMS patients can be classified into the peripheral or central type of neuropathic pain. These two types differ regarding pathophysiological mechanisms, efficacy of available treatments, and psychiatric comorbidity. The two types may overlap in individual patients. BMS is most frequent in postmenopausal women, with general population prevalence of around 1%. Treatment of BMS is difficult; best evidence exists for efficacy of topical and systemic clonazepam. Hormonal substitution, dopaminergic medications, and therapeutic non-invasive neuromodulation may provide efficient mechanism-based treatments for BMS in the future.

Conclusion

We present a novel comprehensive hypothesis of primary BMS, gathering the hormonal, neuropathic, and genetic factors presumably required in the genesis of the condition. This will aid in future research on pathophysiology and risk factors of BMS, and boost treatment trials taking into account individual mechanism profiles and subgroup-clusters.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Classic Solid and All-Soft Suture Anchors for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Saper Michael G. , Meijer Karim , Winnier Scott , Popovich John , Andrews James R. , Roth Charles
Published: March 2017

Background:

Multiple techniques for patellar fixation with classic solid suture anchors (SAs) in medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction have been described. Fixation of the graft to the patella with all-soft suture anchors (ASAs) has not been studied.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the biomechanical performance of 2 different MPFL patellar fixation techniques: ASA fixation and SA fixation. We hypothesized that the ASA group would show no statistical difference in the ultimate failure load and stiffness compared with the SA group.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Reconstruction of the MPFL with gracilis autografts was performed in 16 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees (mean age, 52.6 ± 9.0 years). The specimens were randomly assigned to 2 groups of 8 specimens each based on the method used to fix the graft to the medial patella: ASA or SA fixation. Patellar fixation with ASAs was completed with 2 parallel 1.8-mm anchors (Q-Fix, Smith & Nephew). Fixation with SAs was completed with 2 parallel 2.9-mm anchors (Osteoraptor, Smith & Nephew). The reconstructions were cyclically loaded for 10 cycles to 25 N and then loaded in tension at 6 mm/s until failure. Ultimate failure load (N), displacement (mm), stiffness (N/mm), and mode of failure were recorded for each specimen.

Results:

Load to failure testing showed an ultimate failure load of 228.5 ± 53.1 N in the ASA group. In the SA group, the ultimate failure load was 156.2 ± 84.9 N. The difference between the 2 groups was not statistically significant ( P = .064). Stiffness values between the ASA and SA groups were not significantly different (21.3 ± 4.1 N/mm vs 20.9 ± 9.3 N/mm, respectively, P = .905). The most common mode of failure in both groups was anchor pullout (8 of 8 in the ASA group; 6 of 8 in the SA group).

Conclusion:

This experimental study showed no statistically significant differences in biomechanical performance between 1.8-mm ASAs and 2.9-mm SAs.

Clinical Relevance:

Patellar fixation with 2 parallel ASAs may provide adequate patellar fixation for MPFL reconstruction, while their smaller diameter could potentially decrease the risks for patella fracture and violation of the articular surface in the cadaver model.
The Value of Constructivist Grounded Theory for Built Environment Researchers
Authors: Allen Natalie , Davey Mark
Published: March 2017

Grounded theory is a rigorous methodology that supports the study of complex urban phenomena. This article provides an overview of a constructivist approach to grounded theory and its associated research methods and argues for its wider adoption in urban research. This article asserts that grounded theory is a tool that can provide researchers across the built environment research fields a way in which to develop theory that is inductively based. The methodological considerations that underpin a constructivist approach to grounded theory are explained. Two examples of the application of constructivist grounded theory are presented to illustrate the broad-ranging applicability of this methodology in urban research.
Investigation of the Usability of Computerized Critical Care Information Systems in Germany
Authors: von Dincklage Falk , Suchodolski Klaudiusz , Lichtner Gregor , Friesdorf Wolfgang , Podtschaske Beatrice , Ragaller Maximilian
Published: March 2017

Introduction:

The term “usability” describes how effectively, efficiently, and with what level of user satisfaction an information system can be used to accomplish specific goals. Computerized critical care information systems (CCISs) with high usability increase quality of care and staff satisfaction, while reducing medication errors. Conversely, systems lacking usability can interrupt clinical workflow, facilitate errors, and increase charting time. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare usability across CCIS currently used in Germany.

Methods:

In this study, German intensive care unit (ICU) nurses and physicians completed a specialized, previously validated, web-based questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed CCIS usability based on three rating models: an overall rating of the systems, a model rating technical usability, and a model rating task-specific usability.

Results:

We analyzed results from 535 survey participants and compared eight different CCIS commonly used in Germany. Our results showed that usability strongly differs across the compared systems. The system ICUData had the best overall rating and technical usability, followed by the platforms ICM and MetaVision. The same three systems performed best in the rating of task-specific usability without significant differences between each other. Across all systems, overall ratings were more dependent on ease-of-use aspects than on aspects of utility/functionality, and the general scope of the functions offered was rated better than how well the functions are realized.

Discussion:

Our results suggest that manufacturers should shift some of their effort away from the development of new features and focus more on improving the ease-of-use and quality of existing features.
The Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Functioning in Older Hispanic/Latino Adults Enrolled in an Exercise Intervention: Results From the “¡Caminemos!” Study
Authors: Hernandez Rosalba , Cheung Elaine , Liao Minli , Boughton Seth W. , Tito Lisett G. , Sarkisian Catherine
Published: March 2017

Objective: We examined the association between depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning in older Hispanics/Latinos enrolled in an exercise intervention. Method: We analyzed baseline, 1-year, and 2-year in-person interview data collected from Hispanics/Latinos aged ≥60 years participating in an exercise intervention across 27 senior centers ( N = 572). Results: Mean age was 73.13 years; 77% female. At baseline, older adults screening positive for depression were 1.58 times more likely to experience cognitive impairment ( p = .04); controlling for demographics and comorbid chronic conditions. Compared to peers with little to no depressive symptoms, lower cognitive functioning scores were evident at each follow-up assessment point where elevated depressive symptoms were present, but baseline depression was not associated with cognitive function in longitudinal analyses. Discussion: In older Hispanics/Latinos enrolled in an exercise intervention, though baseline depression did not predict cognitive function over time, elevated symptoms of depression were associated with greater cognitive impairment at every point in this study.
Anticipatory Socialization and the Construction of the Employable Graduate: A Critical Analysis of Employers’ Graduate Careers Websites
Authors: Handley Karen
Published: March 2017

A discourse of employability saturates the higher education sector in the UK. Government and employers call on universities to produce employable graduates who are attractive to the labour market and can sustain their future marketability by taking responsibility for protean self-development. While the neoliberal assumptions behind this call have attracted robust critique, the extent to which employers shape graduating students’ subjectivities and sense of worth as (potentially employable) workers has escaped scrutiny. Inspired by Foucauldian analyses of human resource management (HRM) practices, this article examines employers’ graduate careers websites and explores the discursive construction of the ‘employable graduate’. The article contends that these websites function as a mechanism of anticipatory socialization through which HRM practices extend managerial control into the transitional space of pre-recruitment, with the aim of engaging students’ consent to particular norms of employability.
Motivation and Job Satisfaction of Pharmacists in Four Hospitals in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Slimane Nabila S. Ben
Published: March 2017

Background:

The number of pharmacists in the healthcare sector has been steadily increasing in Saudi Arabia, drawing management attention toward concerning factors influencing pharmacists’ motivation and job satisfaction. *

Aim:

To find out what strongly motivate pharmacists, measure job satisfaction, determine the influencing factors, and to compare it with pharmacy managers’ and supervisors’ opinion.

Methods:

Based on Herzberg’s two factor motivation theory and Job Characteristic Theory, a constructionist research design in four different hospitals; through mixed theory of quantitative anonymous questionnaire for Managers/ Supervisors and qualitative semi-longitudinal self-completion questionnaire for pharmacists. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and SPSS version 11.5.

Results:

71 pharmacists, and 19 managers were enrolled. Majority of participants were young female. Results showed salary, promotion, recognition, and job satisfaction as the most powerful motivator factors. A statistically significant relation between job satisfaction and task significance, autonomy, and managers’ feedback.  Manages considered salary, promotion, financial rewards, and vacation as the most important motivator factors. Results confirmed that managers’ opinion does not reflect the true motivators’ and job satisfaction status at their departments.

Conclusion:

Managers need to eliminate dissatisfaction determined by the hygiene factors of co-workers’ relationship, salary, and job security. Enhance the satisfaction effect related to motivator factors of promotion, recognition, and work itself. It also confirmed previous findings of job satisfaction being a dynamic multi-dimensional phenomenon.
Trends of Dengue Disease Epidemiology
Authors: Cucunawangsih  , Lugito Nata Pratama Hardjo
Published: March 2017

Dengue disease is an emerging mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted between humans by Aedes spp. that are distributed mainly in the tropical and subtropical region along with chikungunya and zika diseases. The distribution of dengue disease is influenced by local variation, such as geography, rainfall, temperature, and rapid urbanization or migration. The epidemy of mosquito-borne infection significantly led to increased number of cases and hyperendemicity which induce a more severe form of dengue accompanied by cocirculation of chikungunya and zika. The rapid global spreading of dengue disease created public health burdens that are presently unfulfilled by the absence of specific therapy, simple diagnosis tool for the early phase, and effective and efficient vector control system. This review highlights the current situation of dengue distribution, epidemiology, and new strategies for early dengue diagnosis and risk prediction of severity that can be used to improve oversight and alleviate the heavy burden of the disease.
Kynurenine Pathway of Tryptophan Metabolism: Regulatory and Functional Aspects
Authors: Badawy Abdulla A-B
Published: March 2017

Regulatory and functional aspects of the kynurenine (K) pathway (KP) of tryptophan (Trp) degradation are reviewed. The KP accounts for ~95% of dietary Trp degradation, of which 90% is attributed to the hepatic KP. During immune activation, the minor extrahepatic KP plays a more active role. The KP is rate-limited by its first enzyme, Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), in liver and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) elsewhere. TDO is regulated by glucocorticoid induction, substrate activation and stabilization by Trp, cofactor activation by heme, and end-product inhibition by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate). IDO is regulated by IFN-γ and other cytokines and by nitric oxide. The KP disposes of excess Trp, controls hepatic heme synthesis and Trp availability for cerebral serotonin synthesis, and produces immunoregulatory and neuroactive metabolites, the B3 “vitamin” nicotinic acid, and oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. Various KP enzymes are undermined in disease and are targeted for therapy of conditions ranging from immunological, neurological, and neurodegenerative conditions to cancer.
Keeping the child in focus while supporting the family
Authors: Dahlbo Madeleine , Jakobsson Liselotte , Lundqvist Pia
Published: March 2017

Child maltreatment can lead to acute and long-term consequences, and it is important that at-risk children are identified early. Child healthcare (CHC) nurses in Sweden are in a position to identify child maltreatment, as they follow children and their parents from the child’s birth to school age. Therefore, the aim was to describe CHC nurses’ experiences when encountering families in which child maltreatment was identified or suspected. Individual open interviews with eight CHC nurses were performed and analysed using a qualitative content analysis. Findings revealed that keeping the child in focus, while supporting the family was essential for the nurses. This family-centred approach was assumed to benefit the child’s interests. Meeting families where child maltreatment was identified or suspected influenced the nurses, emotionally in different ways. Nevertheless, it was important to keep an open mind and communication build on honesty. Furthermore, the nurses requested professional supervision in order to help them learn from the situation ahead of the next time. This knowledge about CHC nurses’ experiences may form a basis for the development of interventions that aim to support the CHC nurses in their professional role, and thereby improve support to children and parents in the future.
Radiographic and Clinical Assessment of Intramedullary Nail Fixation for the Treatment of Unstable Metacarpal Fractures
Authors: Mirza Ather , Mirza Justin , Healy Chris , Mathew Vishaaq , Lee Brian
Published: March 2017

Background: The purpose of the article was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes in a case series of unstable metacarpal fractures treated with flexible intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation. Methods: A total of 55 patients with unstable metacarpal fractures between 2003 and 2010 were treated with IMN fixation and followed for a minimum of 1 year. The outcomes were assessed via a radiological study of longitudinal and angular collapse, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, total active range of motion (ROM) of the wrist, and grip strength testing. Results: In the 55 patients, metacarpal fractures were healed by clinical and radiographic assessment at an average of 12.7 weeks. IMNs were removed in all cases at an average of 13.9 weeks. Patients regained full finger ROM at the final follow-up and were capable of 72.4% of motion at 2 weeks postoperatively. The mean DASH score at the final follow-up was 6.5. Complications included 3 cases of extensor tendon irritation that resolved without functional impairment and 2 cases of “backing out” that required reoperation to replace the pin. In one case, a bony exostosis formed on the affected metacarpal that led to tendon irritation and required operative excision. Conclusions: We found that this technique allowed for the stabilization of fractures, early ROM, resumption of usual activities, reduced immobilization, and minimal complications. A removable orthosis, instead of a cast, allowed for earlier mobilization of the wrist, metacarpophalangeal, and proximal interphalangeal joints.
Cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase-I localized in nociceptors modulates nociceptive cortical neuronal activity and pain hypersensitivity
Authors: Gangadharan Vijayan , Wang Xu , Luo Ceng
Published: March 2017

Chronic pain represents a frequent and poorly understood public health issue. Numerous studies have documented the key significance of plastic changes along the somatosensory pain pathways in chronic pain states. Our recent study demonstrated that the cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (PKG-I) specifically localized in nociceptors constitutes a key mediator of hyperexcitability of primary sensory neurons and spinal synaptic plasticity after inflammation. However, whether PKG-I in nociceptors further affects the cortical plasticity in the ascending pain pathways under pathological states has remained elusive. The immediate-early gene c-fos and phosphorylated ERK1/2 (pERK1/2) are considered reliable indicators for the neuronal activation status and it permits a comprehensive and large-scale observation of nociceptive neuronal activity along the ascending pain pathways subjected to tissue injury. In the present study, we systemically demonstrated that peripheral injury in PKG-Ifl/fl mice produced a significant upregulation of c-Fos or pERK1/2 over from the periphery to the cortex along the pain pathways, including dorsal root ganglion, spinal dorsal horn, ventral posterolateral thalamus, primary somatosensory hindlimb cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, basolateral amygdala, periaqueductal gray, and parabrachial nucleus. In contrast, very few cells in the above regions showed c-Fos or pERK1/2 induction in nociceptor-specific knockout mice lacking PKG-I (SNS-PKG-I−/− mice). Our results indicate that PKG-I expressed in nociceptors is not only a key determinant of dorsal root ganglion hyperexcitability and spinal synaptic plasticity but also an important modulator of cortical neuronal activity in pathological pain states and represent what we believe to be novel targets in the periphery for pain therapeutics.
Traction using a clip-with-line is a preferred method for trainees in performing esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection: an animal model study
Authors: Jin Peng , Fu Kuang-I , Yu Yang , He Yu-Qi , Wei Zhi , Wang Xin , Cai Qiang , Sheng Jian-qiu
Published: March 2017

Background:

The optimal operative process of esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), especially for the beginners, is not established. In this study, the clip-with-line method, the tunneling method and the conventional method for esophageal ESD were compared in a training course on live pigs.

Methods:

15 trainee endoscopists were randomized into three groups, the clip-with-line method group, the tunneling method group, and the conventional method group. Each trainee performed four esophageal ESDs on live pigs with one of the specified methods, assisted by a senior endoscopist. The procedural time and speed, the en bloc resection rates, adverse events, and self-completion rates were recorded, and learning curves were drawn.

Results:

The procedural time in the clip-with-line group was significantly shorter than those in the tunneling and the conventional method group (47.4 ± 9.0 min versus 67.0 ± 15.1 min and 67.0 ± 11.8 min, p = 0.000). The clip-with-line method had the lowest rates of perforation and muscle layer injury among the three methods. The en bloc resection rates and self-completion rates were similar among the three groups. Learning curves analysis showed the clip-with-line method was the easiest one for the trainees to master.

Conclusions:

The clip-with-line method shortened procedural time for trainees, and was associated with lower rates of adverse events. This method is preferred for endoscopists in their learning periods for esophageal ESD.
Adapting tissue-engineered in vitro CNS models for high-throughput study of neurodegeneration
Authors: O’Rourke Caitriona , Lee-Reeves Charlotte , Drake Rosemary AL , Cameron Grant WW , Loughlin A Jane , Phillips James B
Published: March 2017

Neurodegenerative conditions remain difficult to treat, with the continuing failure to see therapeutic research successfully advance to clinical trials. One of the obstacles that must be overcome is to develop enhanced models of disease. Tissue engineering techniques enable us to create organised artificial central nervous system tissue that has the potential to improve the drug development process. This study presents a replicable model of neurodegenerative pathology through the use of engineered neural tissue co-cultures that can incorporate cells from various sources and allow degeneration and protection of neurons to be observed easily and measured, following exposure to neurotoxic compounds – okadaic acid and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium. Furthermore, the technology has been miniaturised through development of a mould with 6 mm length that recreates the advantageous features of engineered neural tissue co-cultures at a scale suitable for commercial research and development. Integration of human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells aids more accurate modelling of human diseases, creating new possibilities for engineered neural tissue co-cultures and their use in drug screening.
Risk factors for Clostridium difficile infection in HIV-infected patients
Authors: Imlay Hannah , Kaul Daniel , Rao Krishna
Published: March 2017

Background:

Clostridium difficile infection is a healthcare-associated infection resulting in significant morbidity. Although immunosuppression is associated with Clostridium difficile infection acquisition and adverse outcomes, the epidemiology of Clostridium difficile infection in HIV-infected patients has been little studied in the era of antiretroviral therapy. This study identifies the risk factors for acquisition of Clostridium difficile infection in HIV-infected patients.

Methods:

A retrospective, propensity score–matched case–control study design was employed, with patients selected from our institution’s outpatient HIV clinic. Clostridium difficile infection cases were defined as having positive stool testing plus an appropriate clinical presentation. The propensity score was generated via multiple logistic regression from year of HIV diagnosis, age at first contact, duration of follow-up, gender, and initial CD4 count.

Results:

The 46 cases included were matched to a total of 180 controls. Prior antibiotic treatment was a significant predictor of Clostridium difficile infection (odds ratio: 13, 95% confidence interval: 3.49–48.8, p < .001) as was number of hospital admissions in the preceding year (odds ratio: 4.02, confidence interval: 1.81–8.94, p < .001). Having both proton pump inhibitor use and CD4 count <200 cells/µL significantly increased odds of Clostridium difficile infection in the multivariable model (odds ratio: 15.17, confidence interval: 1.31–175.9, p = .021).

Conclusion:

As in the general population, frequent hospitalizations and exposure to antimicrobials are independent predictors of Clostridium difficile infection acquisition in patients with HIV. Additionally, low CD4 count and proton pump inhibitor use are new potentially modifiable variables that can be targeted for prevention of Clostridium difficile infection in future interventional studies.