bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Thrombotic Risk in Atrial Fibrillation with Ultrasound Molecular Imaging of P-Selectin
Authors: Jing Yuanwen , Hu Yinlan , Li Hairui , Wang Junfen , Si Xiaoyun , Zheng Hao , Liu Jian , Liao Wangjun , Liao Yulin , Bin Jianping
Published: January 2018

Molecular imaging of inflammatory mediators in atria may contribute to thrombotic risk assessment of atrial fibrillation (AF). We investigated the feasibility of ultrasound molecular imaging (UMI) targeted to P-selectin to assess thrombotic risk in AF. Rat AF models were established with rapid atrial pacing. Microbubbles targeted to P-selectin were injected into the rats, followed by left atrial (LA) UMI examination. Furthermore, P-selectin, platelets (PLTs), fibrin and tissue factor (TF) of LA were detected by histopathology and scanning electron microscopy. Plasma levels of P-selectin, thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT) and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (F1 + 2) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The data showed that P-selectin in LA was correlated with PLT, fibrin and TF (r = 0.735, p < 0.05; r = 0.827, p < 0.05; r = 0.785, p < 0.05, respectively). The plasma level of P-selectin was correlated with the expression of TAT and F1 + 2 (r = 0.866, p < 0.05; r = 0.916, p < 0.05, respectively). The contrast video intensity of adhered microbubbles targeted to P-selectin was correlated with the levels of P-selectin, PLT and fibrin in LA (r = 0.768, p < 0.05; r = 0.798, p < 0.05; r = 0.745, p < 0.05, respectively). In conclusion, P-selectin may serve as a biomarker for thrombotic risk in AF and can be quantified by UMI to assess thrombotic risk.
Dimeric Glycoprotein VI Binds to Collagen but Not to Fibrin
Authors: Ebrahim Mariam , Jamasbi Janina , Adler Kristin , Megens Remco , M'Bengue Yacine , Blanchet Xavier , Uhland Kerstin , Ungerer Martin , Brandl Richard , Weber Christian , Elia Natalie , Lorenz Reinhard , Münch Götz , Siess Wolfgang
Published: January 2018

Platelet glycoprotein VI (GPVI) acts as a decisive collagen receptor in atherothrombosis. Besides collagen, injured atherosclerotic plaques expose tissue factor (TF) that triggers fibrin formation. Two recent studies reported that platelet GPVI also functions as fibrin receptor, which would importantly widen the mode of action of GPVI-targeted antithrombotic drugs. We studied the binding of two GPVI fusion proteins to fibrin under static and arterial flow conditions. Fibrin was prepared from purified fibrinogen or generated more physiologically from endogenous fibrinogen by coagulating plasma with thrombin. Fibrin formation was also triggered by exposing TF-coated surfaces or human atherosclerotic plaque slices to arterially flowing blood. By binding studies and advanced optical imaging, we found that recombinant dimeric GPVI-Fc fusion proteins with Fc from either IgG1 (GPVI-Fc1) or IgG2 (GPVI-Fc2) bound to collagen fibres, but neither to fibrin prepared from purified fibrinogen obtained from three suppliers, nor to physiological fibrin formed by thrombin in plasma or triggered by exposing TF or atherosclerotic plaque slices to arterially flowing blood. Our findings do not support a role of dimeric platelet GPVI as receptor for fibrin. This is important for the understanding of plaque-triggered platelet thrombus formation and is clinically relevant for future GPVI-targeting therapies with recombinant GPVI-Fc and anti-GPVI antibodies.
Urban Particulate Matter Induces Changes in Gene Expression in Vascular Endothelial Cells that Are Associated with Altered Clot Structure In Vitro
Authors: Pan Xiaoxi , Gong Yun , Xu Ya , Ariens Robert , Routledge Michael
Published: January 2018

Background Particulate matter contained in ambient air pollution has been associated with cardiovascular diseases in several epidemiological studies.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the potential for urban particulate matter to induce changes in clot structure through interaction with vascular endothelial cells.

Methods We examined the structure of clots formed on human umbilical vascular endothelial cells that had been treated with various types of particles versus those formed on untreated cells. Particles used were standard reference particulate matter from diesel engine emissions (SRM2975) and urban ambient collection (SRM2787).

Results There was a dose-dependent increase in fibre density in clots formed on particle-treated endothelial cells. It was also found that exposure to the particles induced increased expression of tissue factor and reduced expression of thrombomodulin genes as measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction and increased expression of von Willebrand factor and plasminogen activation inhibitor-1 as measured by ELISA.

Conclusion These changes are consistent with increased procoagulant activity of air pollution particulate matter–treated endothelial cells and suggest that particulate matter has the potential to promote clot formation through changes induced in endothelial genes controlling clot formation.
Impact of Reticulated Platelets on the Antiplatelet Effect of the Intravenous P2Y12-Receptor Inhibitor Cangrelor
Authors: Stratz Christian , Nührenberg Thomas , Valina Christian , Löffelhardt Nikolaus , Mashayekhi Kambis , Ferenc Miroslaw , Trenk Dietmar , Neumann Franz-Josef , Hochholzer Willibald
Published: January 2018

Background Reticulated platelets are associated with impaired antiplatelet response to irreversibly acting P2Y12-receptor inhibitors. However, the impact of reticluated platelets (RP) on the reversibly acting injectable P2Y12-receptor inhibitor cangrelor is unknown. Thus, this study sought to investigate the influence of RP on cangrelor and transitioning strategies to oral P2Y12-receptor inhibitors.

Methods This study randomized 110 patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention with use of cangrelor to different oral transitioning strategies loading with prasugrel 60 mg or ticagrelor 180 mg at the start of cangrelor (n = 45 each) or loading with clopidogrel 600 mg after discontinuation of cangrelor (n = 20). ADP-induced platelet reactivity was assessed by impedance aggregometry. Reticulated platelets were analysed by an automated whole blood flow cytometry and described as immature platelet count.

Results There was no correlation of reticulated platelets and ADP-induced platelet reactivity in patients under treatment with cangrelor (r = 0.06, p = 0.47). This finding was consistent in all three transitioning strategies. On day 1 following treatment with cangrelor, the correlation of reticulated platelets and platelet reactivity was detectable again in patients receiving thienopyridines but not ticagrelor (all patients r = 0.37, p < 0.001; clopidogrel: r = 0.59, p = 0.01; prasugrel: r = 0.47, p < 0.001; ticagrelor r = 0.22, p = 0.13).

Conclusion Platelet inhibition is not influenced by levels of reticulated platelets during infusion of cangrelor independent of oral P2Y12-receptor inhibitor transitioning strategy. These findings underline the potency of cangrelor as immediate and reversibly acting P2Y12-receptor inhibitor.
Casa Revista: arquitetura de fonte aberta
Authors: Passaro Andrés , Rohde Clarice
Published: January 2018

A popularização das novas tecnologias de fabricação digital vêm alterando os modos de produção da sociedade contemporânea. O compartilhamento aberto de informações, dentro de uma nova lógica produtiva, tem o potencial de mudar o sistema econômico vigente, e de até transformar os rumos da globalização em curso. O presente trabalho aborda um novo sistema construtivo de fonte aberta que utiliza a fabricação digital na produção de habitações de baixo custo. O projeto Casa Revista, desenvolvido no laboratório LAMO3D da FAU-UFRJ, tem como objetivo alimentar a renovação da produção independente de habitações, inserindo uma nova tecnologia construtiva no vocabulário popular e explorando seus potenciais. Baseado no sistema WikiHouse de construção, o projeto alia conhecimento global à produção local, tropicalizando o seu conteúdo. A experiência contou com a prototipagem em escala real de um primeiro modelo, usinado e montado por estudantes da graduação, a fim de testar a qualidade do sistema e sua viabilidade técnica de implementação como tecnologia social. O projeto mostrou-se intuitivo, de complexidade simples e rico em possibilidades de manipulação e aperfeiçoamento. São os projetos e tecnologias de fonte aberta que vêm promovendo o alargamento de usos do conhecimento por novos atores, gerando uma dispersão da produção. Cabe a nós arquitetos reconhecermos esse potencial e moldar suas infinitas possibilidades de aplicação.
Editorial V.11 N.2
Authors: Sperling David M. , Bruscato Underléa
Published: January 2018

.
Association Between Hospital Volume, Processes of Care, and Outcomes in Patients Admitted With Heart Failure
Authors: Kumbhani Dharam J. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Heidenreich Paul A. , Schulte Phillip J. , Lu Di , Hernandez Adrian , Yancy Clyde , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Hospital volume is frequently used as a structural metric for assessing quality of care, but its utility in patients admitted with acute heart failure (HF) is not well characterized. Accordingly, we sought to determine the relationship between admission volume, process-of-care metrics, and short- and long-term outcomes in patients admitted with acute HF.

Methods:

Patients enrolled in the Get With The Guidelines-HF registry with linked Medicare inpatient data at 342 hospitals were assessed. Volume was assessed both as a continuous variable, and quartiles based on the admitting hospital annual HF case volume, as well: 5 to 38 (quartile 1), 39 to 77 (quartile 2), 78 to 122 (quartile 3), 123 to 457 (quartile 4). The main outcome measures were (1) process measures at discharge (achievement of HF achievement, quality, reporting, and composite metrics); (2) 30-day mortality and hospital readmission; and (3) 6-month mortality and hospital readmission. Adjusted logistic and Cox proportional hazards models were used to study these associations with hospital volume.

Results:

A total of 125 595 patients with HF were included. Patients admitted to high-volume hospitals had a higher burden of comorbidities. On multivariable modeling, lower-volume hospitals were significantly less likely to be adherent to HF process measures than higher-volume hospitals. Higher hospital volume was not associated with a difference in in-hospital (odds ratio, 0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–1.05;
P
=0.78) or 30-day mortality (hazard ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.97–1.01;
P
=0.26), or 30-day readmissions (hazard ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.97–1.00;
P
=0.10). There was a weak association of higher volumes with lower 6-month mortality (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97–0.99;
P
=0.001) and lower 6-month all-cause readmissions (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95%, CI 0.97–1.00;
P
=0.025).

Conclusions:

Our analysis of a large contemporary prospective national quality improvement registry of older patients with HF indicates that hospital volume as a structural metric correlates with process measures, but not with 30-day outcomes, and only marginally with outcomes up to 6 months of follow-up. Hospital profiling should focus on participation in systems of care, adherence to process metrics, and risk-standardized outcomes rather than on hospital volume itself.
Dysregulated Expression of RPS4Y1 (Ribosomal Protein S4, Y-Linked 1) Impairs STAT3 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3) Signaling to Suppress Trophoblast Cell Migration and Invasion in Preeclampsia
Authors: Chen Xuehai , Tong Chao , Li Haiying , Peng Wei , Li Rong , Luo Xin , Ge Huisheng , Ran Yuxin , Li Qin , Liu Yamin , Xiong Xi , Bai Yuxiang , Zhang Hua , Baker Philip N. , Liu Xiru , Qi Hongbo
Published: January 2018

Normal placentation and a successful pregnancy depend on appropriate trophoblast cell migration and invasion. Inadequate trophoblast invasion and impaired spiral artery remodeling may lead to pregnancy-related disorders, such as preeclampsia. RPS4Y1 (ribosomal protein S4, Y-linked 1) is a member of the S4E family of ribosomal proteins. In this study, we found that RPS4Y1 levels were upregulated in placental samples collected from preeclamptic patients, when compared with the normotensive pregnant women. In vitro, inhibition of RPS4Y1 induced trophoblast cell invasion, promoted placental explant outgrowth, and increased STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) phosphorylation along with elevated expression of N-cadherin and vimentin. Conversely, overexpression of RPS4Y1 results in reduced trophoblast cell invasion and decreased STAT3 phosphorylation. In addition, the suppression of RPS4Y1 promotes trophoblast cell invasion, which could be abolished by the STAT3 knockdown. Meanwhile, we observed reductions of STAT3 phosphorylation expression in preeclampsia patients. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the level of RPS4Y1 expression may be associated with preeclampsia by affecting trophoblast cell migration and invasion via the STAT3/epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway.
Can China Back Down? Crisis De-escalation in the Shadow of Popular Opposition
Authors: Quek Kai , Johnston Alastair Iain
Published: January 2018

Many analysts argue that public opinion creates pressure on Chinese leaders to act coercively in territorial disputes, and that it also limits their options to de-escalate once crises have broken out. Evidence suggests, however, that Chinese leaders may prefer having more flexibility rather than less in a crisis. Using original data generated by a survey experiment conducted in China in 2015, this article examines several strategies that Chinese leaders could use to reduce public pressure so as to make concessions in a crisis easier. These strategies include pledging to use economic sanctions instead of force; invoking China's “peaceful identity”; citing the costs of conflict to China's development; accepting United Nations mediation; and backing down in the face of U.S. military threats. In all cases except one, approval for the leader increases over a baseline level of support for making concessions. The exception is if the leader backs down in the face of U.S. military threats. Here, approval drops below the baseline level of support, especially for nationalists and hawks. The findings suggest that if one assumes that Chinese leaders are constrained by public opinion, a U.S. cost-imposition strategy to compel China to back down in crises may have the opposite effect—tying Chinese leaders' hands even tighter.
Archives and Inference: Documentary Evidence in Case Study Research and the Debate over U.S. Entry into World War II
Authors: Darnton Christopher
Published: January 2018

Did Franklin Delano Roosevelt escalate confliict with Japan and Germany before Pearl Harbor, or did he attempt to avoid war? To what extent did U.S. public opinion influence these decisions? And, crucially, how do we know? Scholars offer diametrically opposed analyses of this historical case, bearing directly on international relations theories regarding the effects of democracy on war and foreign policy. In this debate and the broader security studies field, scholars increasingly employ published and archival primary sources. Because researchers lack a clear template for descriptive and causal inference with documentary evidence, though, such work is indeterminate and ultimately unpersuasive. How can political scientists approach archives and primary documents more effectively and efficiently? Above all, case studies need stronger research designs and clearer source selection strategies, not just more authoritative documents. A critical review of the sources cited in recent scholarship in the debate leading to the United States' entry into World War II, and a replication analysis of a key portion of the documentary record, underscores this need for improved research design and buttresses eight guidelines for the selection and analysis of textual evidence in case study research.
“Zwei Mal in der Wochen Komödie”: Das erste deutsche Hoftheater in Heidelberg
Authors: Rudin Bärbel
Published: January 2018

The first German court theater, founded in 1656 in Heidelberg, so far is inexistent in the view of scientific research. Only in the historiographic offside one can find a newspaper article from 1858 with now lost sources: contractual agreements between the elector palatine Karl Ludwig and a professional theater company regarding a half-yearly subsidized spoken theater for court audience and town citizens are document of a cultural policy pioneer achievement avoiding confessional conflicts. This visualizes the artistically groundbreaking careers of the entire personelle, of which the leading forces also strongly influenced following courtly institutions and carried esthetic standards of the residence culture into the commercial stage experience.
Point Downscaling of Surface Wind Speed for Forecast Applications
Authors: Tang Brian H. , Bassill Nick P.
Published: January 2018

A statistical downscaling algorithm is introduced to forecast surface wind speed at a location. The downscaling algorithm consists of resolved and unresolved components to yield a time series of synthetic wind speeds at high time resolution. The resolved component is a bias-corrected numerical weather prediction model forecast of the 10-m wind speed at the location. The unresolved component is a simulated time series of the high-frequency component of the wind speed that is trained to match the variance and power spectral density of wind observations at the location. Because of the stochastic nature of the unresolved wind speed, the downscaling algorithm may be repeated to yield an ensemble of synthetic wind speeds. The ensemble may be used to generate probabilistic predictions of the sustained wind speed or wind gusts. Verification of the synthetic winds produced by the downscaling algorithm indicates that it can accurately predict various features of the observed wind, such as the probability distribution function of wind speeds, the power spectral density, daily maximum wind gust, and daily maximum sustained wind speed. Thus, the downscaling algorithm may be broadly applicable to any application that requires a computationally efficient, accurate way of generating probabilistic forecasts of wind speed at various time averages or forecast horizons.
Representation of Extratropical Cyclones, Blocking Anticyclones, and Alpine Circulation Types in Multiple Reanalyses and Model Simulations
Authors: Rohrer Marco , Brönnimann Stefan , Martius Olivia , Raible Christoph C. , Wild Martin , Compo Gilbert P.
Published: January 2018

Atmospheric circulation types, blockings, and cyclones are central features of the extratropical flow and key to understanding the climate system. This study intercompares the representation of these features in 10 reanalyses and in an ensemble of 30 climate model simulations between 1980 and 2005. Both modern, full-input reanalyses and century-long, surface-input reanalyses are examined. Modern full-input reanalyses agree well on key statistics of blockings, cyclones, and circulation types. However, the intensity and depth of cyclones vary among them. Reanalyses with higher horizontal resolution show higher cyclone center densities and more intense cyclones. For blockings, no strict relationship is found between frequency or intensity and horizontal resolution. Full-input reanalyses contain more intense blocking, compared to surface-input reanalyses. Circulation-type classifications over central Europe show that both versions of the Twentieth Century Reanalysis dataset contain more easterlies and fewer westerlies than any other reanalysis, owing to their high pressure bias over northeast Europe. The temporal correlation of annual circulation types over central Europe and blocking frequencies over the North Atlantic–European domain between reanalyses is high (around 0.8). The ensemble simulations capture the main characteristics of midlatitudinal atmospheric circulation. Circulation types of westerlies to northerlies over central Europe are overrepresented. There are too few blockings in the higher latitudes and an excess of cyclones in the midlatitudes. Other characteristics, such as blocking amplitude and cyclone intensity, are realistically represented, making the ensemble simulations a rich dataset to assess changes in climate variability.
Fast Physics and Slow Physics in the Nonlinear Dansgaard–Oeschger Relaxation Oscillation
Authors: Vettoretti Guido , Peltier W. Richard
Published: January 2018

The Dansgaard–Oeschger (D-O) relaxation oscillation that governed glacial climate variability during marine isotope stage 3 has been accurately simulated using a high-resolution coupled climate model. Here the authors present additional detailed analyses of both the slow physics transition between warm and cold states and the fast physics transition between cold and warm states of the D-O cycle. First, the authors demonstrate that the mechanisms active during the slow transition from interstadial to stadial conditions involves the continuous flux of thick and old sea ice from the Arctic basin into the North Atlantic subpolar gyre region along the East Greenland Current. During this slow physical process, the freshwater input from sea ice melting as it moves over the surface of the warm ocean restratifies the high-latitude North Atlantic and leads to a significant reduction in the rate of North Atlantic Deep Water formation. A detailed freshwater budget and hydrography analysis is also presented to demonstrate that the D-O cycle is a low-latitude–high-latitude salt oscillator as the authors have previously argued. Second, the authors provide a more detailed analysis than previously of the fast-time-scale processes that govern the extremely rapid transition from cold stadial conditions back to the warm interstadial state. These are associated with the onset of a sub-sea ice thermohaline convective instability, which opens a massive polynya to the north of the southern boundary of the extensive North Atlantic sea ice lid that is characteristic of stadial conditions. This instability is enabled by the continuous increase of salinity above the sub-sea ice pycnocline, which eliminates the vertical salinity gradient that prevents convective destabilization of the water column under full stadial conditions. This reduction in the vertical salinity gradient beneath the sea ice lid results from the continuing northward salt transport by the North Atlantic gyre circulation once the expansion of the stadial sea ice lid has ceased. The onset of instability occurs in the Irminger basin to the south of Denmark Strait, and the authors discuss the reason for this localization of instability onset.
North Atlantic Extratropical Rossby Wave Breaking during the Warm Season: Wave Life Cycle and Role of Diabatic Heating
Authors: Zhang Gan , Wang Zhuo
Published: January 2018

This study investigates the life cycle of anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking during the extended warm season (July–October) over the North Atlantic basin. It was found that upper-tropospheric breaking waves are coupled with lower-level perturbations and can be traced back to a wave train that extends from the North Pacific. The overturning of potential vorticity (PV) contours during wave breaking is associated with the rapid development of an upper-level ridge, which occurs along the east coast of North America and over a warm and moist airstream. The ridge development is investigated using the PV budget analysis and trajectory analysis. The PV budget analysis suggests that the horizontal advection of PV by the perturbed flow dictates the movement and the later decay of the ridge. The ridge amplification, opposed by the horizontal advection of PV, is driven by the vertical advection and the diabatic production of PV, both of which are connected to diabatic heating. The vital role of diabatic heating in the ridge amplification is corroborated by the trajectory analysis. The analysis suggests that diabatic heating reduces the static stability near the tropopause and contributes to the ridge-related negative PV anomalies. The role of diabatic heating in anticyclonic and cyclonic wave breaking in other regions is also discussed. The findings suggest that moist diabatic processes, which were often excluded from the earlier studies of wave breaking, are crucial for Rossby wave breaking during the warm season. The updated understanding of wave breaking may benefit weather forecasting and climate predictions.
Can evolutionary mismatch help generate interest in health promotion messages?
Authors: Grey Elisabeth B , Gillison Fiona B , Thompson Dylan
Published: January 2018

Background:

Generating interest in health interventions is an important first step towards engagement with health promotion and effecting behaviour change. This study explored whether framing health information about physical activity and diet from an evolutionary mismatch perspective could help to generate interest in health promotion among overweight and inactive adults. Evolutionary mismatch theory proposes that human cultural evolution has occurred too rapidly for biological evolution to keep up, creating a mismatch between genes and lifestyles that gives rise to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

Method:

A total of 18 adults completed interviews in which they viewed and discussed a variety of mismatch-framed health information resources. Follow-up questions assessed if and what participants had thought about the information in the week after the interview. Transcripts were thematically analysed.

Results:

Participants found the evolutionary perspective to be novel and interesting. It also provided a meaningful rationale for behaviour change. However, there was some evidence of negative elaboration, which would need to be managed if implementing this approach.

Conclusion:

Adopting a mismatch perspective can help to engage audiences with important health information.
Beyond control: Orientalist tensions and the history of the “upas tree” myth
Authors: Hannigan Tim
Published: January 2018

The “upas tree” is one of the most enduring European myths about Southeast Asia. Accounts of a tree so toxic that it renders the surrounding atmosphere deadly can first be identified in fourteenth-century journey narratives covering what is now Indonesia. But while most other such apocrypha vanished from later European accounts of the region, the upas myth remained prominent and in fact became progressively more elaborate and fantastical, culminating in a notorious hoax: the 1783 account of J. N. Foersch. This article examines the history of the development of the upas myth, and considers the divergent responses to Foersch’s hoax amongst scientists and colonial administrators on the one hand, and poets, playwrights, and artists on the other. In this it reveals a significant tension within the emerging “Orientalist” discourse about Southeast Asia in the early nineteenth century.
Fostering Heroism in Fourth- and Fifth-Grade Students
Authors: Heiner Elisabeth K.
Published: January 2018

This study empirically evaluated the potential effect of a training program created by The Hero Construction Company designed to foster heroism in children. The presentation was geared toward encouraging young children to think about taking action when faced with moral dilemmas. The intention of the material is to encourage heroic acts and prosocial behavior. Student participants learn about heroism, and are asked to imagine themselves behaving heroically, and to think about who their heroes are and why. The curriculum asks students to consider their reactions to morally complex situations, and seeks to empower them with the idea that they are “heroes in waiting,” and can stand up to injustices they may witness, such as bullying. Hypotheses were developed to evaluate the potential effect The Hero Construction Company’s presentation has on courage levels in children who participate in the training. The study sought to answer the primary question: Can heroism be learned, remembered, and then utilized over the child’s lifetime? Sixty-two fourth- and fifth-grade students in Michigan attended the Hero Construction Company’s presentation. They were administered the Courage Measure for Children (CM-C) immediately prior to the presentation (Time 1), immediately following (Time 2), and 30 days following (Time 3). The researcher hypothesized that the students’ self-reported levels of courage would increase between prepresentation and postpresentation, and prepresentation and 30 days postpresentation. Results indicated a significant increase in the children’s courage levels for both time points.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 best interests test as applied to the elderly – is it fit for purpose?
Authors: Szelepet Emma M
Published: January 2018

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (‘MCA’) sets out a regime which governs the making of decisions for people who lack mental capacity. Acts must be carried out, and decisions made, for such an incapacitated person, based on what is in her best interests (section 4 MCA). In this paper, I consider the body of post-MCA case law which applies the MCA best interests test to decision-making for elderly people, in various contexts. Is the best interests test ‘fit for purpose’ for the vulnerable elderly? The key aims of Parliament in introducing the test seem to have been empowerment, protection and support – and alertness to undue influence – as well as a balance between the objective and subjective viewpoints. Laudable attempts have been made by some judges, applying the MCA, to pay real heed to the patient's wishes and values, and to balance physical risk with welfare and happiness. However, it is not yet clear in my view that the new regime fully achieves Parliament’s aims. Indeed, these aims themselves should be expanded; the law in this area should also promote the significance and value of advanced years and should recognise Aristotle's concept of ‘human flourishing’ in old age. Consideration should be given to amending the MCA, adding guidance specifically for the elderly and also to introducing a Convention of Human Rights for the older person and to creating a new statutory Older Persons’ Commissioner and/or a cabinet-level Minister for Ageing and Older People.
What Did You Expect? Substance Use Expectancies Mediate the Relationships Between Dark Triad Traits, Substance Use, and Substance Preference
Authors: Gott Adam Jordan , Hetzel-Riggin Melanie D.
Published: January 2018

This study explores the role of substance use expectancies as mediators between the Dark Triad of personality, substance use, and substance use preferences. A sample of college students ( M = 19.38, SD = 2.63, N = 207) completed an online questionnaire that assessed the Dark Triad traits, substance use history, substance preferences, and substance use expectancies. Three specific substance use expectancies—increased confidence, tension reduction, and cognitive enhancement—were shown to either partially or fully mediate the relationships between the Dark Triad and substance use behaviors and preference for certain substances of abuse. These findings may hold clinical implications for the treatment of substance use disorders and further the understanding of factors contributing to the etiology and progression of substance abuse and substance use disorders.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Social Phobia Inventory and the Mini-Social Phobia Inventory in a Swedish University Student Sample
Authors: Mörtberg Ewa , Jansson Fröjmark Markus
Published: January 2018

Social anxiety is common in the general population, as well as among students in higher education. For screening of social anxiety, there is a need for brief scales. In the present study, the psychometric properties were examined in a Swedish version of the Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN) and the Mini-Social Phobia Inventory (Mini-SPIN) in a university student sample ( n = 161). In addition to the SPIN and Mini-SPIN, participants completed measures of fear of public speaking, general anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Exploratory factor analyses were used to investigate the underlying dimensions of the SPIN, and reliability, convergent, and divergent validity of SPIN and Mini-SPIN were examined by Cronbach’s alpha and correlation analyses. It was found that a shorter eight-item version of the SPIN was associated with two solid factors ( fear and avoidance of social interaction and fear and avoidance of criticism), and acceptable internal consistency, convergent, and divergent validity. In addition, the Mini-SPIN was associated with satisfactory convergent validity, but the reliability was not acceptable. It is concluded that the SPIN-8 is a viable screening tool for social anxiety in a university student population.
Research on the method of measuring solution concentration based on the magneto-optical effect in permanent magnetic fields
Authors: Gong Xin-yu , Lu Yong-hua , Lin Le-gang , Diao Yong
Published: January 2018

In the magnetic fields built by neodymium–iron–boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets, the corresponding relationship among the concentration of sodium chloride solution, glucose solution and their magnetic rotation angles was researched in the temperature range 20–24°C. A helium–neon (He–Ne) laser with a wavelength of 632.8 nm was used in the experiment as light source. A new device is designed for assembling and adjusting the NdFeB permanent magnets. The permanent magnets have no thermal effect compared to an energized solenoid. The corresponding relationship between the concentration and rotation angle is calibrated by standard concentration gradient solutions. Then the concentration can be detected by using this relationship. The rotation angle of the solution is proportional to the concentration and increased with an increase of the magnetic induction intensity. In the magnetic cavity with Φ12 mm dimension, the rotation angles of sodium chloride solutions in the range 0–30 g/100 ml vary from 2.66° to 3.73° and their relative errors range from −1.39% to 1.34%. The rotation angles of glucose solutions in the range 0–50 g/100 ml vary from 2.66° to 26. 44° and their relative errors range from −0.55% to 1.00%. The uncertainty of this system is 0. 05°.
Differences in self-efficacy beliefs between girls in the top 1.5% and the top 3% in general cognitive ability who participate in gifted programs
Authors: Kohan-Mass Judith , Tal Liraz
Published: January 2018

In order to reach gender equity in the gifted population, an affirmative action policy was instituted in Israel to increase the number of girls identified as gifted. The purpose of this study was to compare the self-efficacy beliefs of girls in the top 1.5% (gifted girls (GG)) with those of girls in the top 3% (GG in affirmative action). It was found that girls in the top 3% have higher social and mathematical self-efficacy beliefs than girls in the top 1.5% do. The findings support the literature regarding the level of giftedness as a risk factor for the social adjustment of GG. The surprising finding in the mathematical field is explained by a stronger conflict that exists among GG concerning excellence in a traditional male field. The current study contributes new insights into the emotional aspects accompanying giftedness.
Reference tracking in early stages of different modality L2 acquisition: Limited over-explicitness in novice ASL signers’ referring expressions
Authors: Frederiksen Anne Therese , Mayberry Rachel I.
Published: January 2018

Previous research on reference tracking has revealed a tendency towards over-explicitness in second language (L2) learners. Only limited evidence exists that this trend extends to situations where the learner’s first and second languages do not share a sensory-motor modality. Using a story-telling paradigm, this study examined how hearing novice L2 learners accomplish reference tracking in American Sign Language (ASL), and whether they transfer strategies from gesture. Our results revealed limited evidence of over-explicitness. Instead there was an overall similarity in the L2 learners’ reference tracking to that of a native signer control group, even in the use of lexical nominals, pronouns and zero anaphora – areas where research on spoken L2 reference tracking predicts differences. Our data also revealed, however, that L2 learners have problems with the referential value of ASL classifiers, and with target-like use of zero anaphora from different verb types, as well as spatial modification. This suggests that over-explicitness occurs in the early stages of different modality L2 acquisition to a limited extent. We found no evidence of gestural transfer. Finally, we found that L2 learners reintroduce more than native signers, which could indicate that they, unlike native signers are not yet capable of utilizing the affordances of the visual modality to reference multiple entities simultaneously
The grant system of financing the South African local government sphere: Can sustainable local government be promoted?
Authors: Oosthuizen M , Thornhill C
Published: January 2018

Local government is considered to be government closest to the people. It is usually the third level or sphere of government in most countries. South Africa is divided into three spheres (not levels). Each sphere is distinctive yet interdependent and interrelated with the other spheres. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 provides for the allocation of functions and powers to each sphere, but prohibits one sphere of transgressing onto the area of jurisdiction of another sphere. The total geographic area of the country had been divided into three categories of municipality viz. category A (metropolitan), category B (urban) and category C (district). The dilemma faced is that nearly 60% of the population is urbanised. Since the end of the apartheid government’s era municipalities were merged into non-racial municipalities including large rural areas comprising relatively poor communities which cannot make any or only a limited financial contribution for the services they receive. The result is that municipalities have to rely on grants from the national government to provide basic services such as water, electricity, refuse removal and sanitation. The article addresses the justification for the allocation of grants to the various categories of municipality. It then explains the various kinds of grants and attends to the question of whether municipalities could provide sustainable services if they have to rely on grants. The article is mainly a desktop research project relying on documentation from official reports from, e.g. the Auditor-General and National Treasury, relevant legislation, other policy documents and literature were also consulted. A qualitative research approach is followed.
Social networking in family businesses in a local economy
Authors: Seaman Claire , McQuaid Ronald , Pearson Mike
Published: January 2018

Small, family owned businesses make considerable contributions to local economies. The importance of social networks to their development is also well established. This paper explores the different types of distinct, but interlocking, social networks of a rural business family, focussing upon the interaction between family, business and friendship networks. It presents a multi-rational logic framework to consider how the differing logics of each of these network influences the development and behaviour of family businesses. The changes in networks over time and between generations of the family are also analysed and gaps or structural holes within the networks identified. Implications for research and policy are then set out.
Connected growth: Developing a framework to drive inclusive growth across a city-region
Authors: Beel David , Jones Martin , Rees Jones Ian , Escadale Warren
Published: January 2018

This ‘in perspective’ piece addresses the (re-)positioning of civil society within new structures of city-region governance within Greater Manchester. This follows on from the processes of devolution, which have given the Greater Manchester City-Region a number of new powers. UK devolution, to date, has been largely focused upon engendering agglomerated economic growth at the city-region scale. Within Greater Manchester City-Region, devolution for economic development has sat alongside the devolution of health and social care (unlike any other city-region in the UK) as well. Based on stakeholder mapping and semi-structured interviews with key actors operating across the Greater Manchester City-Region, the paper illustrates how this has created a number of significant tensions and opportunities for civil society actors, as they have sought to contest a shifting governance framework. The paper, therefore, calls for future research to carefully consider how civil society groups are grappling with devolution; both contesting and responding to devolution. This is timely given the shifting policy and political discourse towards the need to deliver more socially inclusive city-regions.
Still vacant after all these years – Evaluating the efficiency of property-led urban regeneration
Authors: Adams David , Disberry Alan , Hutchison Norman
Published: January 2018

Property developers and investors have been at the forefront of urban regeneration in the UK since the 1980s. This has produced an emphasis on prime office space, luxury apartments, shopping centres and leisure attractions, which has been widely criticised on social equity grounds. There has, however, been only limited interrogation of the failure of property-led regeneration to deliver on the development it promises or on whether it represents good value for public money. Nottingham Eastside is one such example of policy and market failure, where for over a quarter of a century, property developers and investors have come and gone, none of four masterplans have been implemented, decontamination and infrastructure provision has never been completed, and most of the land is still vacant. By reconstructing the story of Nottingham Eastside, the paper argues that over-reliance on property-led regeneration can be highly inefficient, let alone inequitable, as a means to achieve strategic urban redevelopment.
From customer service to customer-driven services: Practitioner perspectives on a strategy for dealing with local authority austerity budgets
Authors: Higson Phil
Published: January 2018

This study aims to reflect on the views of public sector managers in relation to possible ways to cope with austerity budgeting and its impact on public services provided to local communities across a subregion. The investigation draws on empirical research based on a series of facilitated strategic workshops delivered to over 400 UK local authority middle managers. The findings indicate a suggested process model and framework to enable the implementation of a customer-driven approach to the delivery of local community public services. The intent of this study was to enable understanding of a particular case and to share that new understanding more widely. The overall approach is based on a ‘common-sense’ view of generalisability, in which readers will find value if the material resonates with their experience. This study is of potential benefit to researchers and those involved in developing effective and sustainable methods of coping with increasingly severe budgetary constraints on public sector local community provision. The study contributes to the extant literature by investigation of practitioner perspectives on these issues.
Building ‘College Town’: Economic redevelopment and the construction of community
Authors: Mapes Jennifer , Kaplan David , Turner V Kelly , Willer Christopher
Published: January 2018

In theory, universities and college towns have a mutualistic relationship. However, the reality is far more complex and imbalanced. Our research examines the extent to which redevelopment projects are place-making, place marketing, or community-building projects. Can investment in infrastructure create community? To answer this question, we look at the relationship between the city of Kent, Ohio and Kent State University. As the college grew in the manufacturing town, tensions between the city and campus rose and were solidified with the 1970 shooting of students by the Ohio National Guard. After a $110M downtown redevelopment project, a 2013 New York Times article declared a healing of this town/gown divide, crediting the university and city partnership in redeveloping downtown. Interviews with key stakeholders consider the extent to which success of this project is measured by the construction of a college town community.
Organising for community-based tourism: Comparing attitudes of local residents and local tourism entrepreneurs in Ravna Gora, Croatia
Authors: Đurkin Jelena , Perić Marko
Published: January 2018

Community-based tourism was developed as holistic and comprehensive approach to local sustainable tourism development with emphasis on all-inclusive community participation at all levels of development. If developed well, community-based tourism can significantly improve state of local communities through empowerment and promotes greater economic and social benefits to individuals and organisations. One of the important characteristics of community-based tourism is the establishment of an organising mechanism in charge of involving various community members and ensuring their active participation. The purpose of this paper is to contribute understanding of community-based tourism and local community participation by addressing issues associated with establishing new local community-based tourism organisation, more precisely, examining attitudes of key local tourism stakeholders towards the very idea of the establishment of a new community-based tourism organisation, its potential characteristics and their personal involvement. Mixed methods have been employed for the purpose of gaining deeper insight into attitudes of local residents and local tourism entrepreneurs in the region of Gorski kotar in Croatia – focusing specifically on Ravna Gora. Research findings reveal important differences between more socially oriented local residents and profit-seeking local tourism entrepreneurs in terms of personal involvement as well as the characteristics of hypothetical new community-based tourism organisation.
Non-governmental organisation global community empowerment projects in Bangladesh: How do these fit the local context?
Authors: Rezaul Islam M
Published: January 2018

This study examines the international development frameworks of two non-governmental organisations and discusses how the activities they are involved with fit the local context of Bangladesh. The study considers two community empowerment projects, Proshika and Practical Action Bangladesh who work with local blacksmiths and goldsmiths. There is clear evidence that non-governmental organisations in Bangladesh are practicing global development frameworks which do not fit with the local context. This study was based on a qualitative approach and data were collected using a number of qualitative data collection methods, such as semi-structured interviews, in-depth case study, focus group discussions and community mapping. Results showed a number of gaps and challenges such as low level of socio-economic and cultural conditions among both smith communities, unknown and unfamiliar development tools, lack of consultation with the local people, lack of space and development ownership in the development process. Each of challenges inhibits the smiths' access and involvement in the development activities. While the study focuses on Bangladesh, the implications are international in scope and argue for approaches that better consider local needs more specifically. Findings from this research suggest important guidelines for international development organisations, policymakers, donors, development practitioner and non-governmental organisation workers to consider.