bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and facilitators for psychiatrists in managing mental health patients in Hong Kong—Impact of Chinese culture and health system
Authors: Sun Kai Sing , Lam Tai Pong , Lam Kwok Fai , Lo Tak Lam
Published: March 2017

Introduction

This study investigated the barriers and facilitators for psychiatrists in managing mental health patients under a Chinese context and a mixed private‐public health system.

Methods

Two focus group interviews were conducted to explore the in‐depth opinions of psychiatrists in Hong Kong. The themes identified from the focus groups were investigated in a questionnaire survey with data from 83 psychiatrists working in public and private sectors.

Results

No insurance coverage of mental health problems, patients' poor compliance of medication, and stigma of seeing psychiatrists were rated as the top barriers in the survey. Some psychiatrists mentioned in focus groups that they might write down the associated physical symptoms of the patients rather than the mental disorder diagnoses on the medical certificate. They observed some patients suspecting that psychiatric drugs were prescribed to control their behavior and make them more muddleheaded. The survey also found that consultation time constraint, long patient waiting list, and difficulty in discharging patients to primary care mostly affected public psychiatrists rather than private ones. However, they perceived similar facilitators, including public campaign to promote positive results of help‐seeking, adequate explanation by other health professionals to the patients before referrals, handling severe cases by casework approach, and having a regular primary care physician.

Discussion

The top barriers are related to insufficient public awareness and negative attitudes towards mental illness and its treatment. Major solutions include promoting positive results of help seeking, enhancing collaboration with primary care physicians, and follow‐up of severe cases by a casework approach.
Pneumonia risk in asthma patients using inhaled corticosteroids: a quasi‐cohort study
Authors: Qian Christina J. , Coulombe Janie , Suissa Samy , Ernst Pierre
Published: March 2017

Aim

Studies have linked the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) to excess pneumonia risk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. The risk in asthma patients remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to examine the risk of pneumonia with ICSs in asthma patients aged 12–35 years.

Methods

We formed a cohort of asthma patients treated from 1990 to 2007 using Quebec health insurance databases. Subjects were considered currently exposed if they had had an ICS dispensed within the 60 days prior to their pneumonia index event or matched person‐moment. Secondary analyses investigated the risk of pneumonia according to ICS dose and type. Rate ratios (RRs) and rate differences (RDs) were both estimated through a quasi‐cohort approach.

Results

The cohort included 152 412 subjects, of whom 1928 had a pneumonia event during follow‐up. There was an increased risk of pneumonia associated with current use of ICSs [RR 1.83; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57, 2.14] or an excess risk of 1.44 cases per 1000 person‐years (RD 1.44; 95% CI 1.03, 1.85). There was an excess pneumonia risk with low doses (RR 1.60; 95% CI 1.06, 2.45), moderate doses (RR 1.53; 95% CI 1.12, 2.08) and high doses (RR 1.96; 95% CI 1.64, 2.34) of ICSs, and with budesonide (RR 2.67; 95% CI 2.05, 3.49) and fluticasone (RR 1.93; 95% CI 1.58, 2.36), specifically relative to no use. When accounting for potential protopathic bias, the risk with current use of ICSs was attenuated (RR 1.48; 95% CI 1.22, 1.78).

Conclusion

ICS use in asthma patients appears to be associated with an increased risk of pneumonia and is present for both budesonide and fluticasone.
‘It feels sometimes like my house has burnt down, but I can see the sky’: A qualitative study exploring patients’ views of cognitive behavioural therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Picariello Federica , Ali Sheila , Foubister Caroline , Chalder Trudie
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is currently a first‐line treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Even though the results from trials are promising, there is variability in patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients withCFSwho undertookCBTat a specialist service forCFS.

Design

This was a qualitative study.

Methods

Thirteen patients withCFS, approaching the end ofCBT, participated in semi‐structured interviews. In addition, participants were asked to rate their satisfaction withCBTand perceived level of improvement. The data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

The majority of participants were satisfied with treatment and reported marked improvements. This was evident from the ratings and corroborated by the qualitative data, yet recovery was in general incomplete. Participants often disclosed mixed feelings towardsCBTprior to its start. Behavioural aspects of treatment were found useful, while participants were more ambivalent towards the cognitive aspects of treatment. The tailored nature ofCBTand therapist contact were important components of treatment, which provided participants with support and validation. Engagement and motivation were crucial for participants to benefit fromCBT, as well as the acceptance of a bio‐psychosocial model ofCFS. Illness beliefs aroundCFSwere also discussed throughout the interviews, possibly impeding engagement with therapy.

Conclusions

The results suggest that various factors may moderate the effectiveness ofCBT, and a greater understanding of these factors may help to maximize benefits gained fromCBT.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

CBT is effective in reducing CFS symptoms, but not all patients report marked improvements following treatment.

Predictors of outcome have been explored in the literature.

Few studies have looked at the experience of adult patients with CFS who have had CBT.

What does this study add?

Findings provide insights as to why variability in CBT‐related improvements exists.

Beliefs about CFS and CBT may shape engagement and consequently contribute to post‐treatment outcomes.

Flexibility and sensitivity are necessary from therapists throughout treatment to ensure full engagement.
Causes of death in Japanese patients with diabetes based on the results of a survey of 45,708 cases during 2001–2010: Report of the Committee on Causes of Death in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nakamura Jiro , Kamiya Hideki , Haneda Masakazu , Inagaki Nobuya , Tanizawa Yukio , Araki Eiichi , Ueki Kohjiro , Nakayama Takeo
Published: March 2017

The principal causes of death among 45,708 patients with diabetes (29,801 men and 15,907 women) who died in 241 hospitals throughout Japan during 2001–2010 were determined based on a survey of the hospital records. Autopsy had been conducted in 978 of the 45,708 cases. The most frequent cause of death was malignant neoplasia (38.3%), followed by, in order of descending frequency: infections (17.0%); and then vascular diseases (14.9%), including renal failure (3.5%), ischemic heart diseases (4.8%) and cerebrovascular diseases (6.6%). Diabetic coma associated with hyperglycemia with or without ketoacidosis accounted for only 0.6% of the deaths. In regard to the relationship between the age and cause of death in patients with diabetes, the incidence of death due to vascular diseases was higher in patients over the age of 30 or 40 years, and the 97.0% of the total death due to vascular diseases was observed in patients over the age of 50 years. The incidence of death due to infectious diseases, especially pneumonia, increased in an age‐dependent fashion, and the 80.7% of the total death due to pneumonia was observed in patients over the age of 70 years. ’Poorer’ glycemic control was associated with the reduced lifespan of patients with diabetes, especially of those with nephropathy. The average age at death in the survey population was 72.6 years. The lifespan was 1.6 years shorter in patients with ‘poorer’ glycemic control than in those with ‘better’ glycemic control. In patients with diabetes of less than 10 years’ duration, the incidence of death due to macroangiopathy was higher than that due to nephropathy. Of the 45,708 patients with diabetes, 33.9% were on oral medication, 41.9% received insulin therapy and 18.8% were treated by diet alone. Among the patients in whom the cause of death was diabetic nephropathy, a high percentage, 53.7%, was on insulin therapy. The average age at death of the 45,708 patients with diabetes was 71.4 years in men and 75.1 years in women. However, the report of the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Japan in 2010 set the average lifespan of the Japanese at 79.6 years for men and 86.3 years for women. Thus, the average lifespan of patients with diabetes still appears to be shorter than that of the general population in Japan. However, the differences in lifespan between patients with diabetes and the general population were shorter than those in the former surveys.
Commentary: Accountability and Maximizing the Value of Public Contracts
Authors: Johnson Barbara R.
Published: March 2017

Related Content: Girth (PAR May/June 2017)
Calculation of the Water Droplets Local Collection Efficiency on the Wind Turbines Blade
Authors: Hu Liangquan , Zhu Xiaocheng , Hu Chenxing , Chen Jinge , Du Zhaohui
Published: March 2017

Wind turbines operating in cold climate are susceptible to icing events. In order to gain a better understanding of the blade icing, the water droplets local collection efficiency affected by different factors was investigated. First, the water droplets conservation equations which are based on the fluent user-defined scalar (UDS) were introduced. Second, the Eulerian method was validated. Two test cases indicate that the developed method is effective. Then, the local collection efficiency on the S809 airfoil was studied. Results show that as the angle of attack (AOA) increases, the water droplets impingement region moves toward the airfoil lower surface and the maximum local collection efficiency decreases. The local collection efficiency and the impingement region increase with the water droplets diameter and the air flow velocity but decrease with the airfoil chord length. Finally, the local collection efficiency affected by the three-dimensional (3D) effect was studied. Results show that the maximum local collection efficiency in the blade tip region decreases up to 96.29% due to the 3D effect.
Acanthamoeba Activates Macrophages Predominantly through Toll-Like Receptor 4- and MyD88-Dependent Mechanisms To Induce Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-6
Authors: Cano Antonella , Mattana Antonella , Woods Stuart , Henriquez Fiona L. , Alexander James , Roberts Craig W.
Published: March 2017

Acanthamoeba castellaniiis a ubiquitous free-living amoeba with a worldwide distribution that can occasionally infect humans, causing particularly severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. Dissecting the immunology ofAcanthamoebainfections has been considered problematic due to the very low incidence of disease, despite the high exposure rates. While macrophages are acknowledged as playing a significant role inAcanthamoebainfections, little is known about how this facultative parasite influences macrophage activity. Therefore, in this study we investigated the effects ofAcanthamoebaon the activation of resting macrophages. Consequently, murine bone marrow-derived macrophages were cocultured with trophozoites of either the laboratory Neff strain or a clinical isolate ofA. castellanii.In vitroreal-time imaging demonstrated that trophozoites of both strains often established evanescent contact with macrophages. BothAcanthamoebastrains induced a proinflammatory macrophage phenotype characterized by the significant production of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-6. However, macrophages cocultured with the clinical isolate ofAcanthamoebaproduced significantly less IL-12 and IL-6 than the Neff strain. The utilization of macrophages derived from MyD88-, TRIF-, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)-, TLR4-, and TLR2/4-deficient mice indicated thatAcanthamoeba-induced proinflammatory cytokine production was through MyD88-dependent, TRIF-independent, TLR4-induced events. This study shows for the first time the involvement of TLRs expressed on macrophages in the recognition of and response toAcanthamoebatrophozoites.
Trajectories of CKD-MBD biochemical parameters over a 2-year period following diagnosis of secondary hyperparathyroidism: a pharmacoepidemiological study
Authors: Filipozzi Pierre , Ayav Carole , Ngueyon Sime Willy , Laurain Emmanuelle , Kessler Michèle , Brunaud Laurent , Frimat Luc
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To define groups of patients according to the changes of biochemical parameters, that is, serum calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH), over a 2-year follow-up period using group-based multi-trajectory modeling (GBMM) among a cohort of dialysis patients with newly diagnosed secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) (ie, PTH≥500 ng/L for the first time) and to compare their patient characteristics and treatments.

Design

Pharmacoepidemiological study.

Setting

In the 12 dialysis units located in the French region of Lorraine.

Participants

A total of 269 dialysis patients with newly diagnosed SHPT were prospectively included from December 2009 to May 2012 and followed-up for 2 years.

Results

We identified four distinct trajectory groups: ‘rapid PTH drop’ experiencing a rapid and sharp decrease (over weeks) in PTH level associated with decreasing phosphate level within normal range (n=34; 12.7%), ‘gradual PTH decrease’ experiencing a gradual and continuous decrease (over months) in PTH level and maintaining phosphate at a middle level throughout the study (n=98; 36.4%), ‘slow PTH decrease with high phosphate’ experiencing a slow decrease in PTH level associated with a relatively high phosphate level (n=105; 39.0%) and ‘uncontrolled SHPT’ with high levels of PTH and phosphate throughout the study (n=32; 11.9%). Patients in the ‘uncontrolled SHPT’ group were significantly (p<0.00001) younger than patients in other groups. Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) targets for PTH, phosphate and calcium were reached simultaneously for 14.9% of patients at baseline and 16.7% at the end of the study. Patients were given cinacalcet more frequently at months 3 and 6 in the ‘rapid PTH drop’ and at month 24 in the ‘uncontrolled SHPT’ groups.

Conclusions

Over 2 years following a new SHPT diagnosis, a younger age and a higher rate of alkaline phosphatase were associated to a continuous uncontrolled SHPT. Patients with the lowest PTH at the end of the follow-up tended to receive more often cinacalcet.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02888639, post results.
Protocol for systematic review of school-based interventions to prevent and control obesity in African learners
Authors: Adom Theodosia , Puoane Thandi , De Villiers Anniza , Kengne André Pascal
Published: March 2017

Introduction

The increasing prevalence of obesity and overweight in childhood in developing countries is a public health concern to many governments. Schools play a significant role in the obesity epidemic as well as provide favourable environments for change in behaviours in childhood which can be carried on into adulthood. There is dearth of information on intervention studies in poor-resource settings. This review will summarise the available evidence on school-based interventions that focused on promoting healthy eating and physical activity among learners aged 6–15 years in Africa and to identify factors that lead to successful interventions or potential barriers to success of these programmes within the African context.

Methods and analysis

This protocol is developed following the guidelines of PRIMSA-P 2015. Relevant search terms and keywords generated from the subject headings and the African search filter will be used to conduct a comprehensive search of MEDLINE (PubMed), MEDLINE (EbscoHost), CINAHL (EbscoHost), Register Academic Search Complete (EbscoHost) and ISI Web of Science (Science Citation Index) for published literature on school-based interventions to prevent and control obesity in learners in Africa. Grey literature will be also be obtained. The searches will cover 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2016. No language limitations will be applied. Full-text articles of eligible studies will be screened. Risk of bias and quality of reporting will be assessed. Data will be extracted, synthesised and presented by country and major regional groupings. Meta-analysis will be conducted for identical variables across studies, where data allow. This protocol is developed following the guidelines of PRISMA-P 2015.

Ethics and dissemination

No primary data will be collected hence ethics is not a requirement. The findings will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals, in conferences and in policy documents for decision-making, where needed.
Impact of the Early Start Denver Model on the cognitive level of children with autism spectrum disorder: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial using a two-stage Zelen design
Authors: Touzet Sandrine , Occelli Pauline , Schröder Carmen , Manificat Sabine , Gicquel Ludovic , Stanciu Razvana , Schaer Marie , Oreve Marie-Joelle , Speranza Mario , Denis Angelique , Zelmar Amelie , Falissard Bruno , Georgieff Nicolas , Bahrami Stephane , Geoffray Marie-Maude
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Early intervention for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the European French-speaking countries is heterogeneous and poorly evaluated to date. Early intervention units applying the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) for toddlers and young children with ASD have been created in France and Belgium to improve this situation. It is essential to evaluate this intervention for the political decision-making process regarding ASD interventions in European French-speaking countries. We will evaluate the effectiveness of 12 hours per week ESDM intervention on the cognitive level of children with ASD, over a 2-year period.

Methods and analysis

The study will be a multicentre, randomised controlled trial, using a two-stage Zelen design. Children aged 15–36 months, diagnosed with ASD and with a developmental quotient (DQ) of 30 or above on the Mullen Scale of Early Learning (MSEL) will be included. We will use a stratified minimisation randomisation at a ratio 1:2 in favour of the control group. The sample size required is 180 children (120 in the control and 60 in the intervention group). The experimental group will receive 12 hours per week ESDM by trained therapists 10 hours per week in the centre and 2 hours in the toddlers' natural environment (alternatively by the therapist and the parent). The control group will receive care available in the community. The primary outcome will be the change in cognitive level measured with the DQ of the MSEL scored at 2 years. Secondary outcomes will include change in autism symptoms, behavioural adaptation, communicative and productive language level, sensory profile and parents' quality of life. The primary analysis will use the intention-to-treat principle. An economic evaluation will be performed.

Dissemination

Findings from the study will be disseminated through peer reviewed publications and meetings.

Trial registration number

NCT02608333 (clinicaltrials.gov); Pre-results.
An Adjoint Operator Approach for Sensitivity Analysis of Radiated Sound Power in Fully Coupled Structural-Acoustic Systems
Authors: Chen Leilei , Marburg Steffen , Chen Haibo , Zhang Hao , Gao Hongbo
Published: March 2017

Full interaction between structural and fluid domains must be considered for light structures immersed in heavy fluid (e.g. thin steel shells in water). The structural-acoustic design sensitivity analysis provides information on the effect of the design variable on acoustic performance, which makes it a key step for noise control and structural-acoustic optimization. This study uses the finite element method (FEM) to model the structure domain, while the fast multipole boundary element method (BEM) is applied to the exterior acoustic domain. An adjoint operator approach is developed to calculate the sensitivity of the radiated sound power with respect to the design variables, which can be any structural or fluid parameter (e.g. fluid or structural density, Poisson’s ratio, Young’s modulus, and geometric measures). Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the validity and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Spectrum of large random Markov chains: Heavy-tailed weights on the oriented complete graph
Authors: Bordenave Charles , Caputo Pietro , Chafaï Djalil , Piras Daniele
Published: March 2017

We consider the random Markov matrix obtained by assigning i.i.d. non-negative weights to each edge of the complete oriented graph. In this study, the weights have unbounded first moment and belong to the domain of attraction of an alpha-stable law. We prove that as the dimension tends to infinity, the empirical measure of the singular values tends to a probability measure which depends only on alpha, characterized as the expected value of the spectral measure at the root of a weighted random tree. The latter is a generalized two-stage version of the Poisson weighted infinite tree (PWIT) introduced by David Aldous. Under an additional smoothness assumption, we show that the empirical measure of the eigenvalues tends to a non-degenerate isotropic probability measure depending only on alpha and supported on the unit disk of the complex plane. We conjecture that the limiting support is actually formed by a strictly smaller disk.
An Indoor Test Methodology for Solar-Powered Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Tan Wilson M. , Sullivan Paul , Watson Hamish , Slota-Newson Joanna , Jarvis Stephen A.
Published: March 2017

Repeatable and accurate tests are important when designing hardware and algorithms for solar-powered wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Since no two days are exactly alike with regard to energy harvesting, tests must be carried out indoors. Solar simulators are traditionally used in replicating the effects of sunlight indoors; however, solar simulators are expensive, have lighting elements that have short lifetimes, and are usually not designed to carry out the types of tests that hardware and algorithm designers require. As a result, hardware and algorithm designers use tests that are inaccurate and not repeatable (both for others and also for the designers themselves). In this article, we propose an indoor test methodology that does not rely on solar simulators. The test methodology has its basis in astronomy and photovoltaic cell design. We present a
generic
design for a test apparatus that can be used in carrying out the test methodology. We also present a
specific
design that we use in implementing an actual test apparatus. We test the efficacy of our test apparatus and, to demonstrate the usefulness of the test methodology, perform experiments akin to those required in projects involving solar-powered WSNs. Results of the said tests and experiments demonstrate that the test methodology is an invaluable tool for hardware and algorithm designers working with solar-powered WSNs.
Discover trends in public emotion using social sensing
Authors: Hasan Maryam , Rundensteiner Elke , Kong Xiangnan , Agu Emmanuel
Published: March 2017

Social networks, such as Twitter and Facebook, are increasingly used by individuals to share their opinions and feelings on current issues and events in the form of text messages. This results in massive amounts of text stream data rich with emotional content. Such data provides a great opportunity for identifying and analyzing people's emotions in response to various public events, such as epidemics, terrorist attacks and political elections. However, the high volume and fast pace of social data make it challenging to analyze public emotions in social networks in real-time. In this paper we propose an online method to measure public emotion and detect emotion-intensive moments during real-life events. We first classify emotions expressed in text stream messages using a supervised learning approach. Then we aggregate each emotion class to discover emotionevolving patterns over time and detect emotion-intensive moments. Our emotion analysis method is shown to present a fast and robust approach of analyzing online streams of text messages.
Of form, context, and use
Authors: Amant Kirk St.
Published: March 2017

Many of us have heard the expression "form follows function." It's a nice idea in theory: The notion the item we create inherently lends itself to a particular use. After all, the shape of a hammer should intrinsically tell us the tasks we can perform with that tool - be it pounding or pulling nails. But those of us who study human behavior related to use know this relationship of form to function is often far from the case. In truth, the connection between design and use is far more complex and often unpredictable.
The problem of multimodality
Authors: Licastro Amanda M.
Published: March 2017

This article investigates the writing mode, multimodal aspects, and folksonomic elements of digital composition gathered from a WordPress-based ePortfolio platform.* Focusing on the student perspective, data was gathered through both surveys of first year students and text analysis of digital compositions in order to produce quantitative results that can be replicated and aggregated. This research demonstrates the impact of assignment design and platform affordances on student composition practices. Results show that incoming students do not fit the "digital native" myth, nor are they prepared to engage in digital scholarship at the college level without significant guidance and specific requirements that scaffold digital work.
Spreadable Spectacle in Digital Culture: Civic Expression, Fake News, and the Role of Media Literacies in “Post-Fact” Society
Authors: Mihailidis Paul , Viotty Samantha
Published: March 2017

This article explores the phenomenon of spectacle in the lead up and immediate aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Through the spread of misinformation, the appropriation of cultural iconography, and the willing engagement of mainstream media to perpetuate partisan and polarizing information, the proliferation of populist rhetoric, polarizing views, and vitriolic opinions spread. Revisiting the world of critical theorist Guy Debord, this article argues that the proliferation of citizen-drive spectacle is unique in its origination and perpetuation, and a direct result of an increasingly polarized and distrustful public spending an increasing amount of time in homophilous networks where contrarian views are few and far between. We apply the frame of spreadable media to explore how citizen expression online initiated, sustained, and expanded the media spectacle that pervaded the 2016 U.S. presidential election. The conclusion of this work argues that media literacies, as a popular response mechanism to help cultivate more critical consumers of media, must be repositioned to respond to an era of partisanship and distrust. We present a set of considerations for repositioning the literacies to focus on critique and creation of media in support of a common good, and that can respond meaningfully in an era of spreadability, connectivity, and spectacle.
The Use of Frozen Section in the Early Diagnosis of Acute Invasive Fungal Sinusitis
Authors: Melancon C. Claire , Clinger John D.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Acute invasive fungal sinusitis (AIFS) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the immunocompromised patient population. Early diagnosis is key to improving patient outcomes. Frozen section biopsies have been shown to decrease time to diagnosis when compared with permanent pathology. However, its accuracy has not been adequately described in the literature, specifically in regard to AIFS. The aim of this study is to evaluate the statistical diagnostic accuracy of frozen sections and to review the etiology, clinical presentation, and current diagnostic protocols in management of AIFS.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Retrospective review included 67 pathologic records in Co‐Path, with search criteria including invasive fungal, clinical history, frozen section, and final diagnosis between the dates of 2006 and 2015.

Results

Sixty‐seven cases were reviewed per the search criteria in Co‐Path. Of these, 31 met further criteria of having had frozen section analysis. Variables such as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were assessed. All 21 positive frozen sections correlated with positive permanent pathology, giving a positive predictive value of 100%. Frozen section biopsies were 87.5% sensitive and 100% specific.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of AIFS has been shown to decrease morbidity and mortality. Frozen section biopsies remain key in obtaining an early diagnosis among patients with a high clinical suspicion for invasive fungal sinusitis. Frozen section biopsies positive for invasive fungal pathology were universally consistent with definitive diagnosis.
Associations between Otolaryngology Applicant Characteristics and Future Performance in Residency or Practice: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bowe Sarah N. , Laury Adrienne M. , Gray Stacey T.
Published: March 2017

Objective

This systematic review aims to evaluate which applicant characteristics available to an otolaryngology selection committee are associated with future performance in residency or practice.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, Health Business, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and SocINDEX.

Review Methods

Study eligibility was performed by 2 independent investigators in accordance with the PRISMA protocol (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses). Data obtained from each article included research questions, study design, predictors, outcomes, statistical analysis, and results/findings. Study bias was assessed with the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool.

Results

The initial search identified 439 abstracts. Six articles fulfilled all inclusion and exclusion criteria. All studies were retrospective cohort studies (level 4). Overall, the studies yielded relatively few criteria that correlated with residency success, with generally conflicting results. Most studies were found to have a high risk of bias.

Conclusion

Previous resident selection research has lacked a theoretical background, thus predisposing this work to inconsistent results and high risk of bias. The included studies provide historical insight into the predictors and criteria (eg, outcomes) previously deemed pertinent by the otolaryngology field. Additional research is needed, possibly integrating aspects of personnel selection, to engage in an evidence‐based approach to identify highly qualified candidates who will succeed as future otolaryngologists.
Animal models as a tool in hepatocellular carcinoma research: A Review
Authors: Santos Nuno Paula , Colaço Aura Antunes , Oliveira Paula Alexandra
Published: March 2017

Cancer is the first cause of death in developed countries and the second in developing countries. Concerning the most frequent worldwide-diagnosed cancer, primary liver cancer represents approximately 4% of all new cancer cases diagnosed globally. However, among primary liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma is by far the most common histological subtype. Notwithstanding the health promotion and disease prevention campaigns, more than half a million new hepatocellular carcinoma cases are reported yearly, being estimated to growth continuously until 2020. Taking this scenario under consideration and the fact that some aspects concerning hepatocellular carcinoma evolution and metastasize process are still unknown, animal models assume a crucial role to understand this disease. The animal models have also provided the opportunity to screen new therapeutic strategies. The present review was supported on research and review papers aiming the complexity and often neglected chemically induced animal models in hepatocarcinogenesis research. Despite the ongoing debate, chemically induced animal models, namely, mice and rat, can provide unique valuable information on the biotransformation mechanisms against xenobiotics and apprehend the deleterious effects on DNA and cell proteins leading to carcinogenic development. In addition, taking under consideration that no model achieves all hepatocellular carcinoma research purposes, criteria to define the “ ideal” animal model, depending on the researchers’ approach, are also discussed in this review.
Instructional and learning outcomes in China and the USA as policy implications
Authors: Ding Haiyong , Chen Ang
Published: March 2017

There are substantial differences between the Chinese and US education systems. One difference is in the design and use of assessment due to differences in educational policies. This study described the differences in student learning outcomes, instructional approaches, and learner motivation in physical education as consequences of the policies in the two countries. Objectively measured data on skill and knowledge achievement and instructional procedures, and self-report data on student motivation were collected from a random sample of 870 students in 24 whole classes from eight Chinese middle schools and 1213 students in 39 classes from 15 US middle schools. Multivariate analyses of variance on class means revealed that Chinese students outperformed their US peers in skills, perhaps because skills were part of the high-stake tests for advancement in schooling. They were outperformed by the US students in a fitness knowledge test, perhaps because knowledge was not part of the high-stake tests. The differences in learning outcomes, instructional approaches, and motivation seem to suggest strong differentiated influences from the two countries’ respective educational environments and assessment policies.
Interactions of ammonium-smectite with volatile organic compounds from leachates
Authors: Gautier Mathieu , Muller Fabrice , Forestier Lydie Le
Published: March 2017

The percolation of water through waste landfills produces leachates with high concentrations of which can generate -exchanged clays within geochemical barriers. These leachates also contain several volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can interact with the clay barrier. The aim of the present study was to characterize the sorption of eight short-chain VOCs (acetonitrile, methyl tert-butyl ether, dichloromethane, benzene, phenol, ethanol, acetone and aniline) on -smectite, and to identify their sorption mechanisms. The samples treated were characterized by carbon and nitrogen elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. For acetonitrile, methyl tert-butyl ether, dichloromethane and benzene, no sorption was detected. Phenol, ethanol and acetone were sorbed very weakly, through Van der Waals interactions. Aniline molecules were sorbed strongly on -smectite mainly with hydrogen bonds between aniline and interlayer water molecules. However, aniline sorption decreased the hydrophilic character of the -smectite, which may increase the permeability of the clay barrier.
Impacto da carga combustível nas propriedades hidráulicas de um solo pós-incêndio em condições laboratoriais
Authors: Almeida Soraia , Fernandez Helena , Martins Fernando , Pedras Celestina , Lança Rui
Published: March 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o impacto da carga de combustível nas propriedades hidrológicas de um solo franco arenoso, queimado em condições de laboratório. Para tal, foram recolhidas e transportadas paralaboratório, amostras de solo não perturbado, onde foram queimadas depois de aplicar diferentes cargas de material combustível (agulhas de pinheiro). A taxa de infiltração e a sorvidade do solo diminuem fortemente com o aumento da carga de combustível. https://doi.org/10.14195/1647-7723_24_15
Fire and seismic risk perception at Lisbon University – Faculty of Letters
Authors: Ângela Santos , Margarida Queirós , Luís Carvalho
Published: March 2017

The aim of the research is to find spatial awareness and safety procedures in hypothetical earthquake and fire situations of the faculty’s users. The results show users do not know what to do if an earthquake (33%) or fire (11%) occurs and 60% are not aware of any safety equipment or where the meeting point is. For these reasons a communication strategy should be created and developed. https://doi.org/10.14195/1647-7723_24_2
Estudo da aplicação de coberturas verdes no objetivo de se construir edifícios neutros em carbono
Authors: Freitas Jr. José De Almendra , Sanquetta Carlos Roberto , Iwakiri Setsuo , Maron da Costa Marienne Do Rocio de Mello , Koehler Henrique Soares
Published: March 2017

No contexto das mudanças climáticas o setor da construção civil vem se envolvendo em programas de mitigação e neutralização de emissões de gases do efeito estufa (GEE). Uma das formas possíveis de “neutralizar” parte das emissões é transformar as edificações em reservatórios de carbono por meio da implantação de “coberturas verdes”, que consiste no cultivo de vegetação em substratos de terra na cobertura dos edifícios. Ocorre que esta implantação acrescenta carga à estrutura da edificação, havendo a necessidade desta ser reforçada. Este trabalho, por meio de um estudo de caso representativo, ajuda a analisar se o acréscimo de emissões de CO2 decorrente do reforço estrutural é menor que o carbono armazenado na “cobertura verde”, verificando a viabilidade desta técnica neste aspecto. O trabalho demonstrou que para o estudo de caso, esta implantação tem saldo muito positivo quanto às emissões de CO2, armazenando muito mais carbono que emitindo, podendo neutralizar de forma significativa as emissões decorrentes da construção da obra.
Orient - Zur (De-)Konstruktion eines Phantasmas
Authors: Porra Véronique , Wedekind Gregor
Published: March 2017

Der Orient ist als kulturelle Antithese eine Projektionsfläche europäischer Denkweisen und Phantasmen. Besonders in der französischen und frankophonen Literatur und Kunst ist er seit dem 19. Jahrhundert ein allgegenwärtiges Thema. Die Beiträge des Bandes machen diese Konstruktionen des Orients in ihrer Komplementarität und in der medialen Differenz von bildender Kunst und Literatur sichtbar. Als ein interdisziplinärer Beitrag zur Orientalismus-Debatte werden die literarischen und künstlerischen Werke des sogenannten Orientalismus nicht länger einer versatzstückhaften Ideologiekritik durch Wissenschaft unterzogen. Vielmehr wird gezeigt, dass einem Teil dieser Werke die Dekonstruktion des Orients als ästhetische Praxis bereits selbst eingeschrieben ist.
Fremde Vergangenheit
Authors: Rauchstein Maike
Published: March 2017

Johann David Michaelis gehört als Initiator der ersten wissenschaftlichen Expedition in den Orient zu einem wesentlichen Begründer der Orientalistik in Deutschland - auch wenn seine Verdienste um die Disziplin heute mit Verweis auf die Illegitimität seines bibelphilologischen Programms umstritten sind. Maike Rauchsteins Analyse des Kulturkontakts zwischen Deutschland und dem Orient im 18. Jahrhundert und seine Rezeption durch die orientalistische Geschichtsschreibung der Gegenwart legt das politische Potenzial der frühen Orientalistik offen und zeichnet den historischen Wandel des Selbstverständnisses des Fachs nach.
Hints on the Broad Line Region Structure of Quasars at High and Low Luminosities
Authors: Marziani Paola , Sulentic Jack W. , Zamfir Sebastian , Negrete C. A. , Dultzin Deborah
Published: March 2017

Quasars show a considerable spectroscopic diversity. However, the variety of quasar spectra at low redshifts is non-random: a principal component analysis applied to large samples customarily identifies two main eigenvectors. In this contribution we show that the range of quasar optical spectral properties observed at low-z and associated with the first eigenvector is preserved up to z ≈ 2 in a sample of high luminosity quasars. We also describe two major luminosity effects.
Diagnostics of the Solar X-Flare Impact on Lower Ionosphere through the VLF-NAA Signal Recordings
Authors: Kolarski Aleksandra , Grubor Davorka , Šulić Desanka
Published: March 2017

An analysis of four solar flare X-ray irradiance effects on VLF signal amplitude and phase delay variations on the NAA/24.0 kHz signal trace during the period from 2005 September to 2006 December was carried out. Solar flare data were taken from the GOES12 satellite one-minute listings. For the VLF data, recordings at the Institute of Physics, Belgrade were used. It was found that solar flare events affect VLF wave propagation in the Earth-ionosphere waveguide lowering the changes of the ionosphere electron density height profiles. This follows from the variation during the solar flare events of the following propagation parameters: the sharpness of the lower edge of the ionosphere and the reflection height.
Statistical Analysis of Langmuir Waves Associated with Type III Radio Bursts: I. Wind Observations
Authors: Vidojević S. , Zaslavsky A. , Maksimović M. , Dražić M. , Atanacković O.
Published: March 2017

Interplanetary electron beams are unstable in the solar wind and they generate Langmuir waves at the local plasma frequency or its harmonic. Radio observations of the waves in the range 4-256 kHz, observed in 1994-2010 with the WAVES experiment onboard the WIND spacecraft, are statistically analyzed. A subset of 36 events with Langmuir waves and type III bursts occurring at the same time was selected. After removal of the background, the remaining power spectral density is modeled by the Pearson system of probability distributions (types I, IV and VI). The Stochastic Growth Theory (SGT) predicts log-normal distribution for the power spectrum density of the Langmuir waves. Our results indicate that SGT possibly requires further verification.
Mass Ejection from the Symbiotic Prototype Z and During its 2006 Outburst
Authors: Tomov N. A. , Tomova M. T. , Bisikalo D. V.
Published: March 2017

High-resolution spectroscopic observations in the region of the Balmer Hα and Hγ lines of the symbiotic binary Z And were performed during its major eruption in 2006. the Hα line had additional satellite high-velocity components situated on either side of its central peak which indicated bipolar collimated outflow from the compact object. the Hγ line presented three components, consisting of a central narrow emission, a broad emission component with low intensity indicating an optically thin stellar wind with a velocity of about 500 kms-1from the compact object and a blueshifted P Cyg absorption with a multi-component structure occupying a broad velocity range. These data are explained in light of a model where a disk-like envelope surrounding the accretion disk collimates the stellar wind on the compact object and gives rise to bipolar outflow. the mass-loss rate of the accretor was derived at several epochs after outburst. We conclude that the mass-loss rate has decreased probably from 4-5 × 10−7(d/1.12kpc)3/2M⊙yr−1at the time of maximum light to about 2 × 10−7(d/1.12kpc)3/2M⊙yr−1in 2006 December.
Revised Line Profile Function for Hydrogenic Species
Authors: Sapar A. , Poolamäe R.
Published: March 2017

Analytical series expansions for the hydrogenic spectral line profile functions are derived starting from the three single expressions, obtained by integrating twice the convolution of the Holtsmark, Lorentz and Doppler line profile functions. We get well converging series expansions for the line wings and centers by reducing the number of arguments in the profile function by one, introducing the module of the Holtsmark and Lorentz profiles as a new argument. In the intermediate part of the line, the parabolic cylinder functions expressed via the confluent hypergeometric series, are used. The multi-component Stark splitting of the hydrogenic spectral lines and the modeled stochastic electron transitions in the electric field of the adjacent ions generate wide Doppler plateaux at the line centers, with the characteristic widths estimated from the fit to the characteristic width of the Holtsmark profile. This additional Doppler broadening of the line profile function removes the central dip typical to the Holtsmark profile.
Recollection, reevaluation, distortion: Symeon Metaphrastes’ narrative techniques in retelling the history of iconoclasm
Authors: Lukhovitskiy Lev
Published: March 2017

Four Metaphrastic Lives dealing with the saints of the iconoclast epoch are considered alongside their source texts: the Lives of Ioannikios the Great (BHG 937), Stephen the Younger (BHG 1667), Andrew ‘en Krisei’ (BHG 112), and Theodoros Graptos (BHG 1746). A discussion of the methodological framework and a brief introduction to the texts and their sources are followed by a presentation of the metaphrastic shifts: attenuation of polemical devices, compression of historical time, psychologization, new aspects of Kaiserkritik, thematic elaboration of theological issues. The conclusion argues that it were non-historical literary goals that stood behind the recodification of the cultural memory of the iconoclast period in the Metaphrastic Menologion. Aiming to set the original story free from redundant elements and retell it in a more clear way Symeon Metaphrastes’ team demythologized the iconoclast emperors, interiorized the clash between iconoclasts and iconophiles, and shifted the focus from heresiological issues to emotions and inner development of the saint.
Alexandros von Nikaia als Bibelerklärer: ein neues Textstück eines unerkannten Exegeten (ediert aus dem Codex Vaticanus graecus 762)
Authors: Zawadzki Konrad
Published: March 2017

The exegetical texts of Alexandros of Nikaia - a Byzantine bishop living in the 10th century - were hitherto completely unknown to scholarship. Although some catena manuscripts contain several scholia attributed to Alexandros, they have never been the subject of scientific examination. The present article provides the first edition of one of these scholia that survives in the catena commentary on 2 Corinthians in Codex Vaticanus graecus 762. The edited text is translated into German and extensively commented on. The linguistic and content analysis of the edited scholion allows to say that there is no reason to doubt that the text was originally written by Alexandros who here shows himself a quite conscientious biblical commentator.The article concludes with a list of all catena scholia that are attributed to the Byzantine bishop. The existence of these texts makes clear that the exegetical activity of Alexandros of Nikaia may no longer be ignored.
Mean and variance of the number of subfunctions of random Boolean function which are close to the affine functions set
Authors: Serov Aleksandr A.
Published: March 2017

For random equiprobable Boolean functions we investigate the distribution of the number of subfunctions which have a given number of variables and are close to the set of affine Boolean functions. It is shown, for example, that for Boolean functions of n variables the mean number of subfunctions having s ⩾ 3 + log2
n variables and the Hamming distance to the set of affine functions smaller than 2
s−2 tends to 0 as n → ∞.
On the asymptotics of the number of repetition-free Boolean functions in the basis {&, ∨, ⊕, ¬}
Authors: Voblyi Vitaliy A.
Published: March 2017

We obtain an asymptotic formula for the number S

n
of repetition-free Boolean functions of n variables in the basis {&, ∨, ⊕, ¬} for n → ∞ : S

n
∼ cn
−3/2
α

n

n!, where c ≈ 0.1998398363, α ≈ 7.549773429.
Possibilities of Using Transport Terminals in South Bohemian Region
Authors: Čejka Jiří , Bartuška Ladislav , Turinská Libuše
Published: March 2017

Currently, when there is a need for transport services adapted to the customer requirements and create a workable operational system, there is increasing talk about transport terminals. Since the South Bohemian region is one of those where this issue will be increasingly dealt with, this paper suggests ways to use transport terminals as important support systems for freight and passenger transport.