bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Risk: Correlation Between Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Functional Indices
Authors: Dattilo Giuseppe , Imbalzano Egidio , Casale Matteo , Guarneri Claudio , Borgia Francesco , Mondello Stefania , Laganà Pasqualina , Romano Pietro , Oreto Giuseppe , Cannavò Sarafinella
Published: March 2017

Evidence suggests that psoriasis together with other cardiovascular (CV) risk factors is associated with increased vascular morbidity, but it is not clear whether psoriasis is an independent risk factor. Consecutive patients (n = 33; 35.6 ± 5.7 years; 13 females) with mild psoriasis (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index <10) without comorbidities and 33 healthy participants (36.3 ± 5.9 years; 15 females) were enrolled. Both groups underwent echocardiography, speckle tracking (2-dimensional strain echocardiography [2D-SE]), and pulse wave velocity (PWV) testing. Clinical and conventional echocardiographic characteristics were comparable between both groups. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was significantly lower ( P = .002) in the psoriasis group (22.39% ± 2.28%) than in controls (24.15% ± 2.17%). The PWV was significantly lower ( P = .004) in controls (8.06 ± 1.68 m/s) than in the psoriasis group (9.23 ± 1.53 m/s). Significant correlations between GLS and disease duration ( r = −.66, P < .0001) and between GLS and patient age at diagnosis ( r = .48, P = .0043) were found. Psoriasis may be an independent CV risk factor, causing cardiac and vascular impairment. Both 2D-SE and PWV may be useful tools for the screening of CV risk in these patients.
Determination of Spatially Resolved Tablet Density and Hardness Using Near-Infrared Chemical Imaging (NIR-CI)
Authors: Talwar Sameer , Roopwani Rahul , Anderson Carl A. , Buckner Ira S. , Drennen James K.
Published: March 2017

Near-infrared chemical imaging (NIR-CI) combines spectroscopy with digital imaging, enabling spatially resolved analysis and characterization of pharmaceutical samples. Hardness and relative density are critical quality attributes (CQA) that affect tablet performance. Intra-sample density or hardness variability can reveal deficiencies in formulation design or the tableting process. This study was designed to develop NIR-CI methods to predict spatially resolved tablet density and hardness. The method was implemented using a two-step procedure. First, NIR-CI was used to develop a relative density/solid fraction (SF) prediction method for pure microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) compacts only. A partial least squares (PLS) model for predicting SF was generated by regressing the spectra of certain representative pixels selected from each image against the compact SF. Pixel selection was accomplished with a threshold based on the Euclidean distance from the median tablet spectrum. Second, micro-indentation was performed on the calibration compacts to obtain hardness values. A univariate model was developed by relating the empirical hardness values to the NIR-CI predicted SF at the micro-indented pixel locations: this model generated spatially resolved hardness predictions for the entire tablet surface.
Micro-Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (Micro-LIBS) Study on Ancient Roman Mortars
Authors: Pagnotta Stefano , Lezzerini Marco , Ripoll-Seguer Laura , Hidalgo Montserrat , Grifoni Emanuela , Legnaioli Stefano , Lorenzetti Giulia , Poggialini Francesco , Palleschi Vincenzo
Published: March 2017

The laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique was used for analyzing the composition of an ancient Roman mortar (5th century A.D.), exploiting an experimental setup which allows the determination of the compositions of binder and aggregate in few minutes, without the need for sample treatment. Four thousand LIBS spectra were acquired from an area of 10 mm2, with a 50 µm lateral resolution. The elements of interest in the mortar sample (H, C, O, Na, Mg, Al, Si, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe) were detected and mapped. The collected data graphically shown as compositional images were interpreted using different statistical approaches for the determination of the chemical composition of the binder and aggregate fraction. The methods of false color imaging, blind separation, and self-organizing maps were applied and their results are discussed in this paper. In particular, the method based on the use of self-organizing maps gives well interpretable results in very short times, without any reduction in the dimensionality of the system.
Decreased serum glicentin concentration in patients with severe and morbid obesity
Authors: Raffort Juliette , Panaïa-Ferrari Patricia , Lareyre Fabien , Blois Mathilde , Bayer Pascale , Staccini Pascal , Fénichel Patrick , Chinetti Giulia
Published: March 2017

Background

Proglucagon-derived hormones represent a family of peptides mainly produced in the pancreas and the intestine. While several proglucagon-derived peptides play key roles in metabolic diseases, little is known about glicentin. The aim of the present study was to investigate serum glicentin concentrations in individuals with adult obesity and to study its potential link with various metabolic parameters.

Methods

Fifty-two individuals with normal body mass index (BMI < 25 kg/m2) and 39 patients with severe or morbid obesity (BMI > 35 kg/m2) were prospectively included at the University Hospital of Nice between January 2014 and April 2016. Clinical data were recorded, and a fasting blood sample was collected to measure glicentin, glucose, insulin, C-peptide, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and HDL-cholesterol. In addition, a homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR) was also calculated.

Results

Patients with severe and morbid obesity had significantly higher plasma glucose, together with higher serum concentrations of insulin, C-peptide, HOMA2-IR, triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol and lower serum concentrations of HDL-cholesterol compared with individuals with a normal body mass index. The obese patients displayed significantly lower fasting serum concentrations of glicentin compared with subjects with a normal body mass index (12 pmol/L vs. 24 pmol/L, P < 0.0001). In the total population, fasting glicentin concentrations did not correlate with BMI, glycaemic parameters (glucose, insulin, C-peptide, HOMA-IR) or lipid parameters (total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and HDL-cholesterol).

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting serum glicentin concentrations in healthy lean and obese adult subjects. We found that fasting serum glicentin concentrations are decreased in patients with severe or morbid obesity suggesting the potential interest of this peptide in obesity and metabolic-related disorders.
Mobilizing the Wealthy: Doing “Privilege Work” and Challenging the Roots of Inequality
Authors: Scully Maureen , Rothenberg Sandra , Beaton Erynn E. , Tang Zhi
Published: March 2017

Wealthy individuals stand to gain materially from economic inequality and, moreover, have shaped many organizational and societal practices that perpetuate economic inequality. Thus, they are unlikely allies in the effort to remedy economic inequality. In this article, however, we study the mobilization of a small group of wealthy activists who join underprivileged allies to expose and contest the root causes of wealth consolidation; they offer an instructive alternative to “philanthrocapitalism,” whereby the wealthy give after extreme accumulation. Our study contributes to the growing literature on inequality and organizations by recognizing how inequality is reproduced through organizations, cognizant that efforts to halt this reproduction will likely be contested by the wealthy. Our study examines how advocacy by the wealthy may be challenging, but it may garner attention because it is unexpected. We derive the concept of “privilege work” from our observations of an often awkward and fraught process that enables the wealthy to engage with their own privilege, use their insider knowledge of wealth accumulation as a lever for change, and work respectfully with underprivileged allies rather than invoking superior status.
Clinical Factors Associated With Chest Imaging Findings in Hospitalized Infants With Bronchiolitis
Authors: Nazif Joanne M. , Taragin Benjamin H. , Azzarone Gabriella , Rinke Michael L. , Liewehr Sheila , Choi Jaeun , Esteban-Cruciani Nora
Published: March 2017

Despite recommendations against routine imaging, chest radiography (CXR) is frequently performed on infants hospitalized for bronchiolitis. We conducted a review of 811 infants hospitalized for bronchiolitis to identify clinical factors associated with imaging findings. CXR was performed on 553 (68%) infants either on presentation or during hospitalization; 466 readings (84%) were normal or consistent with viral illness. Clinical factors significantly associated with normal/viral imaging were normal temperature (odds ratio = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.03-2.67) and normal oxygen saturation (odds ratio = 1.77; 95% CI = 1.1-2.83) on presentation. Afebrile patients with normal oxygen saturations were nearly 3 times as likely to have a normal/viral CXR as patients with both fever and hypoxia. Our findings support the limited role of radiography in the evaluation of hospitalized infants with bronchiolitis, especially patients without fever or hypoxia.
A Framework to Guide the Assessment of Human–Machine Systems
Authors: Stowers Kimberly , Oglesby James , Sonesh Shirley , Leyva Kevin , Iwig Chelsea , Salas Eduardo
Published: March 2017

Objective:

We have developed a framework for guiding measurement in human–machine systems.

Background:

The assessment of safety and performance in human–machine systems often relies on direct measurement, such as tracking reaction time and accidents. However, safety and performance emerge from the combination of several variables. The assessment of precursors to safety and performance are thus an important part of predicting and improving outcomes in human–machine systems.

Method:

As part of an in-depth literature analysis involving peer-reviewed, empirical articles, we located and classified variables important to human–machine systems, giving a snapshot of the state of science on human–machine system safety and performance. Using this information, we created a framework of safety and performance in human–machine systems.

Results:

This framework details several inputs and processes that collectively influence safety and performance. Inputs are divided according to human, machine, and environmental inputs. Processes are divided into attitudes, behaviors, and cognitive variables. Each class of inputs influences the processes and, subsequently, outcomes that emerge in human–machine systems.

Conclusion:

This framework offers a useful starting point for understanding the current state of the science and measuring many of the complex variables relating to safety and performance in human-machine systems.

Application:

This framework can be applied to the design, development, and implementation of automated machines in spaceflight, military, and health care settings. We present a hypothetical example in our write-up of how it can be used to aid in project success.
Beyond practical preparation: A critical approach to preparing social work students for international study experiences
Authors: Jones Peter , Rowe Simone , Miles Debra
Published: March 2017

As critical discussions on the internationalisation of social work continue, the importance of preparing social work students undertaking international study is increasingly recognised. This article describes the preparation process developed for a group of Australian students undertaking international study experiences in Asia. In particular, the content of an online ‘Intercultural Learning Module’ is discussed, highlighting a process that moves beyond notions of cultural competence towards a critical appreciation of cultural diversity, imperialism, racism and privilege. Critical reflection on self and culture to develop intercultural practice skills is discussed and student reflections on the value and impact of these materials presented.
Enemies within
Authors: Crisman-Cox Casey
Published: March 2017

I examine how the chief executive’s political party affects domestic terrorism within democracies. In particular, I contribute to the literature on terrorism within democracies by arguing that domestic terrorist groups prefer attacking when right-wing parties hold office. I find evidence for this claim as well as results indicating that left-wing executives are more likely to cut deals with domestic terrorist groups. These trends suggest that domestic terrorist groups attack during right-wing governance to build their reputation and reduce violence during left-wing governance to appear moderate and get a deal. These results contribute to literatures on differences between left and right parties, how political institutions affect terrorism, and differences between domestic and transnational terrorism.
Addiction Treatment Clients’ Reactions to Graphic Warning Labels on Cigarette Packs
Authors: Pagano Anna , Gubner Noah , Tajima Barbara , Yip Deborah , Henderson Catherine , Guydish Joseph
Published: March 2017

Graphic warning labels (GWLs) on cigarette packs have been tested among diverse groups at high risk for tobacco use. However, little is known about the effectiveness of GWL interventions for persons with substance use disorders, whose smoking prevalence is 3 to 4 times that of the general population. After a experimental study which exposed clients in residential addiction treatment to GWLs for 30 days, we conducted five focus groups with trial participants ( N = 33) to explore how exposure to the labels may have impacted their readiness to quit smoking. Focus group interviews were analyzed thematically. Interviewees reported that GWLs were more effective than text-based warnings for increasing quit intentions due to greater cognitive and emotional impact. Male and female interviewees expressed gender-specific reactions to the labels. Addiction treatment programs are a strategic site for GWL and other tobacco interventions due to the tobacco-vulnerable populations they serve.
Homicidal methanol poisoning in filicide–suicide
Authors: Sikary Asit K , Behera C
Published: March 2017

Most methanol poisonings are accidental. We present a rare case of filicide–suicide, where a youth was killed by methanol poisoning and his parents then committed suicide by jumping in front of a running train. The father’s suicide note explains the crime.
Case marking uniformity in developmental pronoun errors
Authors: Fitzgerald Colleen E. , Rispoli Matthew , Hadley Pamela A.
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine if children acquire grammatical case as a unified system or in a piecemeal fashion. In English language acquisition, many children make developmental errors in marking case on subject position pronouns (e.g., Me do it, Him like it). It is unknown whether children who produce pronoun case errors with first person pronouns also produce errors with third person pronouns. This finding would be expected if case were acquired uniformly across person through building a paradigm for an abstract case feature. Spontaneous pronoun case errors were collected from language samples of 43 typically developing toddlers at 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, and 36 months of age. A chi-square test was used to determine whether children were more likely to make both first and third person errors, indicating an association. The uniformity of the case marking system was further investigated by asking whether pronoun case errors in first and third person occurred at the same time using a Wilcoxon signed-ranks test. Most children treated case uniformly across person, producing both first and third person pronoun case errors or producing no case errors at all, resulting in a significant association. Additionally, errors were not significantly different in timing. The results of this investigation are compatible with the notion that children systematically extend case marking in a unified paradigm. Pronoun case is not acquired separately for each grammatical person in a piecemeal fashion.
Intervention in the home literacy environment and kindergarten children’s vocabulary and phonological awareness
Authors: Niklas Frank , Schneider Wolfgang
Published: March 2017

Children develop linguistic competencies during interactions with more knowledgeable others. Consequently, one way to support this development is by enhancing the home literacy environment (HLE) in which children live. In this study a non-intensive intervention procedure was developed to improve HLE and linguistic competencies of 125 German children (mean age at time 1 [t1; beginning of the study]: 5;5 years) in their last year of kindergarten. Parents were offered to participate in one evening meeting and in an individual dialogic reading session. HLE and children’s linguistic competencies were assessed before and twice after the intervention. Families in the complete intervention group did not differ from other families in any of the study variables at the beginning of the study. However, they significantly improved their HLE, and children in these families showed greater development in phonological awareness when compared with the other families. Results indicate that less intensive interventions can have long-lasting effects on HLE and children’s development.
Operating characteristics of the variable frequency speed-regulating system for a single pump in a closed system
Authors: Song Yiping , Zhao Jianing
Published: March 2017

This study experimentally investigated the operating characteristics of the variable frequency speed-regulating system of a water pump in a closed system. The test data for the variable frequency water pump under various conditions were obtained by changing the water pump frequency and the opening setting of a regulator valve in the system. This study revealed that the total power ratio of the water pump system before and after the frequency adjustment did not exhibit cubic correlations with its rotational speed ratio as defined by the affinity law, especially in areas other than the high-efficiency area of pump operation. The equations that express the correlations between the frequency ratio and the total power ratio under the full range of operating conditions were obtained in this study by using the data fitting method. The test confirmed that the fitted characteristic equations had a higher precision and a wider scope of applicability than the existing equations when the water pump, motor, and variable frequency drive were considered as a whole.

Practical application: The variable frequency speed-regulating system of a water pump was used in cooling, cooled and heating systems. However, the water pump power was calculated by the standard cube law, and its energy-saving potential was exaggerated. This study revealed a new energy model of a water pump system that can more accurately calculate the total power of the variable frequency water pump in practical engineering.
Monthly utilisation factors for building energy calculations
Authors: Hitchin Roger
Published: March 2017

Monthly utilisation factors are the basis of many procedures for calculation of monthly heating or cooling requirements for buildings, notably in the procedure described in standard ISO 13790:2008 ‘Energy performance of buildings – Calculation of energy use for space heating and cooling’, which is widely used for the implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive in Europe. The procedures used to determine the values of the factors are invariably empirical rather than being derived from first principles, with the principal parameter being the ratio between monthly mean heat gains and monthly mean heat losses for the space in question. This article shows that this ratio is inherently insufficient to define the values and illustrates how months with similar values of the ratio can have different utilisation factors. It also shows that, if daily heating requirement is proportional to outdoor temperature, the key building parameter needed to determine the utilisation factor is the familiar base temperature. The base temperature can be expressed in terms of the monthly gain: loss ratio and the mean indoor and external temperatures: the day-to-day frequency distributions of outdoor temperature is also important. Finally, the article demonstrates that, for many situations, the ISO 13790 procedure and a linear model with residuals produce similar estimates of monthly heating requirement. However, this is not true towards the upper end of its observed range. In this situation, the linear model produces lower values for utilisation factors and correspondingly higher heating (and cooling) requirements. This effect is most marked when the mean indoor and outdoor temperatures are close or the space is well-insulated (causing a given heat gain to represent a higher potential temperature difference).

Practical application: Monthly utilisation factors are the basis of many procedures for the calculation of monthly heating or cooling requirements for buildings, notably in the procedure described in standard ISO 13790:2008 ‘Energy performance of buildings – Calculation of energy use for space heating and cooling’, which is widely used for the implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive in Europe. This article shows that an alternative approach based on the concept of energy signatures, although producing very similar results in many situations, is a more robust and extendable basis for monthly heating and cooling energy demand calculations.
Revitalizing Union Representation through Labor Education Initiatives: A Close Examination of Two Trade Unions in Quebec
Authors: Laroche Mélanie , Dufour-Poirier Mélanie
Published: March 2017

This article aims to explain whether and to what extent formal and informal labor education and training initiatives help increase union participation among young members. Between 2009 and 2014, twenty-two interviews were conducted with ten national union leaders and twelve young leaders in two trade union organizations operating in the public and private sectors in Quebec. To complement these data, fifty-three focus group discussions were held, involving more than four hundred thirty young members (under the age of thirty). Our results reveal the presence of three areas of tension associated with the internal functioning of these unions. They also point out some factors that may boost the participation of young workers, internally.
Regulating Estrangement: Human–Animal Chimeras in Postgenomic Biology
Authors: Hinterberger Amy
Published: March 2017

Why do laws and regulations marking boundaries between humans and other animals proliferate amid widespread proclamations of the waning of the species concept and the consensus that life is a continuum? Here I consider a recent spate of new guidelines and regulations in the United Kingdom and United States that work to estrange human bodies from other animals in biomedicine. Using the idea of a bioconstitutional moment to understand how state institutions deliberate over “human–animal chimeras,” I address how nations differently establish separations between humans and other animals. New chimeric entities, containing human hereditary material, have consecrated regulatory ground and signify increased attention to fields of research that have long used interspecies mixing. Regulators and policy makers now find themselves in a curious position. On the one hand, they continue to regulate the estrangement between humans and other animals, but on the other, they support the creation of chimeric life––a form of life that draws into question the very basis of such separations.
Effect of Overlapping Operations on Outcomes in Microvascular Reconstructions of the Head and Neck
Authors: Sweeny Larissa , Rosenthal Eben L. , Light Tyler , Grayson Jessica , Petrisor Daniel , Troob Scott H. , Greene Benjamin J. , Carroll William R. , Wax Mark K.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To compare outcomes after microvascular reconstructions of head and neck defects between overlapping and nonoverlapping operations.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Patients undergoing microvascular free tissue transfer operations between January 2010 and February 2015 at 2 tertiary care institutions were included (n = 1315). Patients were divided into 2 cohorts by whether the senior authors performed a single or consecutive microvascular reconstruction (nonoverlapping; n = 773, 59%) vs performing overlapping microvascular reconstructions (overlapping; n = 542, 41%). Variables reviewed were as follows: defect location, indication, T classification, surgical details, duration of the operation and hospitalization, and complications (major, minor, medical).

Results

Microvascular free tissue transfers performed included radial forearm (49%, n = 639), osteocutaneous radial forearm (14%, n = 182), anterior lateral thigh (12%, n = 153), fibula (10%, n = 135), rectus abdominis (7%, n = 92), latissimus dorsi (6%, n = 78), and scapula (<1%, n = 4). The mean duration of the overlapping operations was 21 minutes longer than nonoverlapping operations (P =. 003). Mean duration of hospitalization was similar for nonoverlapping (9.5 days) and overlapping (9.1 days) cohorts (P =. 39). There was no difference in complication rates when stratified by overlapping (45%, n = 241) and nonoverlapping (45%, n = 344) (P =. 99). Subset analysis yielded similar results when minor, major, and medical complications between groups were assessed. The overall survival rate of free tissue transfers was 96%, and this was same for overlapping (96%) and nonoverlapping (96%) operations (P =. 71).

Conclusions

Patients had similar complication rates and durations of hospitalization for overlapping and nonoverlapping operations.
HPV in Larynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma: New Serotypes and Survival Study within 10‐Year Follow‐up
Authors: Sánchez Barrueco Alvaro , González Galán Fernando , Lora Pablos David , Villacampa Aubá José Miguel , Ballestín Carcavilla Claudio , Cenjor Español Carlos , Almodóvar Álvarez Carlos
Published: March 2017

Objective

To determine the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, specifically in the larynx without the bias of other sublocations, and to describe the different serotypes of HPV and their impact on overall and disease‐free survival after 10‐year follow‐up.

Study Design

Retrospective case series with chart review of ear, nose, and throat oncologic database.

Setting

Academic tertiary care hospital.

Subjects

A total of 123 samples of larynx squamous cell carcinoma were included, only from the glottis and treated only with surgery between 1977 and 2005.

Methods

DNA extraction was carried out by polymerase chain reaction, and subsequent visualization was performed in low‐density arrays. Results were compared with histologic, clinicopathologic, and survival parameters, with a 10‐year follow‐up.

Results

HPV DNA was detected in 22.76% (n = 28) of the samples. Eleven genotypes were detected, 2 of which had never been described in the larynx (HPV43 and HPV62). No increasing trend of HPV was observed over time. HPV presence did not correlate with better survival during the follow‐up. Smoking was proven as an independent factor in relation to the presence of HPV.

Conclusion

HPV may represent a notable factor in the development of a subset of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma without significant influence on overall and disease‐free survival. More studies, including oncogene transcription proteins, would be necessary to draw more relevant conclusions about the relevance of HPV infection in the larynx.
National Database Analysis of Single‐Level versus Multilevel Sleep Surgery
Authors: Brietzke Scott E. , Ishman Stacey L. , Cohen Seth , Cyr Derek D. , Shin Jennifer J. , Kezirian Eric J.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Recent evidence suggests that multilevel sleep surgery improves outcomes when compared with palate surgery alone for most patients. The study objective was to compare demographic and outcomes data for palate surgery (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty [UPPP]) alone versus multilevel surgery through a national insurance claims database.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

National insurance claims database.

Subjects and Methods

An adult cohort undergoing single‐level UPPP versus UPPP with nasal and/or tongue/hypopharyngeal surgery was identified in the Truven Health Analytics MarketScan Research Databases for the years 2010 through 2012. Demographic and outcomes data were assessed at short‐term (≤14 days), intermediate (15‐60 days), and long‐term (61‐183 days) intervals via a multivariate regression model adjusted for age, sex, geographic region, insurance type, and the Charlson‐Deyo comorbidity score. The primary long‐term complication considered was positive airway pressure (PAP) equipment supply, implying possible treatment failure.

Results

The cohort included 14,633 patients: 7559 (51.6%), UPPP alone; 5219 (35.7%), UPPP + nasal surgery; 1164 (7.95%), UPPP + tongue/hypopharyngeal surgery; and 691 (4.7%), UPPP + nasal + tongue/hypopharyngeal surgery. Demographic data were similar among the groups. UPPP alone had lower rates of postoperative bleeding than UPPP + tongue/hypopharyngeal surgery (4.31% vs 6.19%, P =. 004). Multivariate modeling indicated that the addition of either nasal surgery (odds ratio = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.10‐1.34, P <. 001) or tongue/hypopharyngeal surgery (odds ratio = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.00‐1.32, P =. 048) to UPPP was associated with increased odds of postoperative continuous positive airway pressure.

Conclusions

UPPP alone is currently the predominant form of sleep surgery in the United States. Multilevel surgery had greater odds of postoperative bleeding and positive airway pressure equipment supply than UPPP alone. Dedicated studies formally evaluating single‐ versus multilevel sleep surgery and the impact of possible surgeon/patient selection bias should be a priority.
Removal of dissolved toluene in underground water with nanowires of manganese oxide
Authors: Tavakoli Dastjerdi Mohammad Hossein , Habibagahi Ghasem , Ghahramani Arsalan , Karimi-Jashni Ayoub , Zeinali Sedigheh
Published: March 2017

The objective of the present study was to investigate the adsorption behavior of manganese oxide nanowires as an adsorbent for the removal of dissolved toluene from underground water. The nanowire membrane, composed of three-dimensional porous nanostructures plus superhydrophobic character, is very suitable for removal of the hydrophobic molecules. The effects of adsorbent dose, contact time, initial solution concentration, pH, salinity, and recyclability on the uptake of toluene by the adsorbent in batch mode are examined. The adsorption data compared to the adsorption of two kinds of activated carbons show that manganese oxide nanowire is competitive to activated carbons. Furthermore, the equilibrium data are fitted to different types of adsorption isotherms. Freundlich isotherm model illustrated the best fit to the data. The results of this study suggest that nanowires of manganese oxides can be used as a low cost, highly efficient adsorbent for the removal of dissolved hydrocarbon from aqueous solution.
Morphological complexity in written L2 texts
Authors: Brezina Vaclav , Pallotti Gabriele
Published: March 2017

Morphological complexity (MC) is a relatively new construct in second language acquisition (SLA). After critically discussing existing approaches to calculating MC in first- and second-language acquisition research, this article presents a new operationalization of the construct, the Morphological Complexity Index (MCI). The MCI is applied in two case studies based on argumentative written texts produced by native and non-native speakers of Italian and English. Study 1 shows that morphological complexity varies between native and non-native speakers of Italian, and that it is significantly lower in learners with lower proficiency levels. The MCI is strongly correlated to proficiency, measured with a C-test, and also shows significant correlations with other measures of linguistic complexity, such as lexical diversity and sentence length. Quite a different picture emerges from Study 2, on advanced English learners. Here, morphological complexity remains constant across natives and non-natives, and is not significantly correlated to other text complexity measures. These results point to the fact that morphological complexity in texts is a function of speakers’ proficiency and the specific language under investigation; for some linguistic systems with a relatively simple inflectional morphology, such as English, learners will soon reach a threshold level after which inflectional diversity remains constant.
Modularity, working memory, and second language acquisition: A research program
Authors: Truscott John
Published: March 2017

Considerable reason exists to view the mind, and language within it, as modular, and this view has an important place in research and theory in second language acquisition (SLA) and beyond. But it has had very little impact on the study of working memory and its role in SLA. This article considers the need for modular study of working memory, looking at the state of common approaches to the subject and the evidence for modularity, and then considering what working memory should look like in a modular mind. It then sketches a research program to explore working memory within a modular mind and particularly its role in SLA. This is followed by a brief look at the way that the Modular Online Growth and Use of Language (MOGUL) approach can serve as a framework for such a program.
The impact of focus on pronoun resolution in native and non-native sentence comprehension
Authors: Patterson Clare , Esaulova Yulia , Felser Claudia
Published: March 2017

Non-native speakers’ sensitivity to discourse-level cues in pronoun interpretation has not been widely researched. We carried out three antecedent-choice questionnaire experiments which investigate the impact of focus on within-sentence pronoun resolution in native and non-native speakers of German and native speakers of Russian. Focus was realized via cleft structures and focus-sensitive particles (FSPs). Findings show a clear difference between native and non-native speakers that is not attributable to first language (L1) influence. Native speakers of German and Russian were less likely to resolve the pronoun to an antecedent in focus via a cleft compared to a non-focused antecedent in the same position (the ‘anti-focus effect’). Unlike the native speakers, non-native speakers did not show an anti-focus effect with clefts but showed a tendency to resolve a pronoun to an antecedent appearing with an FSP. We argue that non-native speakers do not always complete a detailed analysis of the information structural cues when seeking an antecedent and may instead be influenced by surface-level cues that highlight certain antecedents.
Teachers’ Expectations of Girls’ Classroom Performance and Behavior: Effects of Girls’ Race and Pubertal Timing
Authors: Carter Rona , Mustafaa Faheemah N. , Leath Seanna
Published: March 2017

Experiencing an early pubertal transition has been shown to increase the risk for internalizing and externalizing outcomes among girls. It is less clear how the expectations of other individuals can be critical determinants of vulnerability for early developers. This study used an experimental design to examine whether the expectations of teachers might be influenced by girls’ pubertal timing (early, on-time, late) and race (Black, White). Elementary school teachers ( N = 220; Mage = 43 years; 91% female; 84% White) were randomly shown behavior vignettes consisting of drawings of girls in varying stages of pubertal development. They then rated each girl’s future academic/social functioning. Results demonstrated that teachers expected White and Black early developers to have more academic/social problems. Teachers also ascribed more academic/social problems to Black early developers relative to White early developers. The findings offer new insights into the synergistic linkages between pubertal timing and teachers’ expectations, with girls’ race accentuating this relationship.
Superior versus anteroinferior plating of displaced midshaft clavicular fracture in patients older than 60 years
Authors: Lu Minpeng , Qiu Hao , Zhou Xin , Lee Cody S , Jiang Dianming , Dong Jing , Quan Zhengxue
Published: March 2017

Objective

To compare superior versus anteroinferior plating for displaced midshaft clavicular fracture in elderly patients.

Methods

We retrospectively compared the functional result, parameters, and perioperative course of displaced midshaft clavicular fracture in 42 patients >60 years treated with a 3.5-mm reconstruction plate placed superiorly versus anteroinferiorly.

Results

Groups were similar with regard to age, sex, bone mineral density, cause of injury, and fracture pattern. The superiorly-plated group had a significantly longer operation time and greater blood loss, complications and implant prominence. Constant scores were significantly higher for the anteroinferiorly-plated group than the superiorly-plated group at 3 months postoperatively; however, there was no difference between groups at final follow-up.

Conclusion

While both anteroinferior and superior plate placement are safe and effective for displaced midclavicular fractures in patients >60 years, the anteroinferior approach involves less operation time, blood loss, complications and implant prominence, and enables faster return to normal activities.
β-catenin promotes intracellular bacterial killing via suppression of Pseudomonas aeruginosa-triggered macrophage autophagy
Authors: Fu Qiang , Chen Kang , Zhu Qian , Wang Weijia , Huang Fuda , Miao Lishao , Wu Xinger
Published: March 2017

Objective

To investigate β-catenin-mediated bacterial elimination during Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection of macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells.

Methods

Cell viability and catenin beta 1 ( CTNNB1) expression in RAW264.7 cells following P. aeruginosa infection versus uninfected cells, were detected by cell counting kit-8 assay and β-catenin Western blots. RAW264.7 cells with CTNNB1 overexpression were established with β-catenin lentivirus using flow cytometry and clonogenic limiting dilution assays. Bacterial killing was measured by plate counts; phagocytosis and nitric oxide (NO) were measured by flow cytometry; and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using Griess reaction. Autophagy was determined by microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 alpha-phosphatidylethanolamine conjugate (LC3-II) protein levels and formation of LC3 puncta, using Western blot and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

Following P. aeruginosa infection, RAW264.7 cell β-catenin levels were reduced in a time- and multiplicity of infection-dependent manner. CTNNB1 overexpression was associated with increased P. aeruginosa elimination, but had no effect on RAW264.7 cell phagocytosis, ROS and NO. CTNNB1 overexpression reduced LC3-II levels and formation of LC3 puncta, suggesting autophagy inhibition. Rapamycin/starvation-induced autophagy resulted in reduced bacterial killing following P. aeruginosa infection.

Conclusion

β-catenin may promote bacterial killing via suppression of P. aeruginosa-induced macrophage autophagy.
Rituximab as first-line treatment for acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Chen Haifei , Fu Ailin , Wang Jing , Wu Tianqin , Li Zhengyang , Tang Jieqing , Shen Hongshi , Zhu Jingjing , Li Jie , Zhu Qian , Qing Longmei
Published: March 2017

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) as first-line treatment of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP).

Methods

Twenty-five patients with acute aTTP and/or severe a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13 (ADAMTS13) deficiency were admitted to our centre from April 2009 to March 2015. Fourteen patients received RTX plus standard therapy (plasma exchange and corticosteroids) at acute episodes. Haemoglobin, platelet count, schistocytes, lactate dehydrogenase levels, ADAMTS13 activity and its inhibitors, and the ratio of B lymphocytes in the peripheral blood, were monitored. The number of plasma exchange (PEXs), total plasma volume, remission time, relapse ratio, and adverse effects were recorded.

Results

The median number of PEXs was 5 (2–17) sessions and median total plasma volume was 168.43 ml/kg (62.86–469.52 ml/kg). Patients achieved haematological remission at a median of 15 days (5–22 days), and the median time of immunological remission was 2 weeks (2–8 weeks) with a median follow-up of 13 months (3–61 months). ADAMTS13 activity significantly increased after 2 weeks. The B lymphocyte percentage in peripheral blood was reduced 1 week after the first dose of RTX infusion compared with before treatment (2.21% ± 5.23% vs 18.47% ± 7.34%, P = 0.000 [the result of statistical software]), and began to gradually increase 9 months later. Severe adverse effects and relapsing TTP were not observed during therapy and follow-up. However, one patient who had sustained immunological remission died of severe pneumonia 7 months later.

Conclusion

Although our study was limited by its small sample number and it was a non-controlled, clinical trial, it showed potential benefits of RTX therapy for acute aTTP. RTX may be administered as a first-line therapy for lowering patients’ relapse rate in the long term. Randomized, controlled trials of RTX for aTTP are required.
From ‘just the facts’ to ‘more theory and methods, please’: The evolution of the research article in Administrative Science Quarterly, 1956–2008
Authors: Strang David , Siler Kyle
Published: March 2017

This paper analyzes the surface structure of research articles published in Administrative Science Quarterly between 1956 and 2008. The period is marked by a shift from essays that interweave theory, methods and results to experimental reports that separate them. There is dramatic growth in the size of theory, methods and discussion sections, accompanied by a shrinking results section. Bibliographic references and hypotheses expand in number and become concentrated in theory sections. Article structure varies primarily with historical time and also with research design (broadly, quantitative vs. qualitative) and the author’s background. We link trends in article structure to the disciplinary development of organization studies and consider its distinctive trajectory relative to physical science.
The Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Self-Objectification Beliefs and Behaviors Scale
Authors: Lindner Danielle , Tantleff-Dunn Stacey
Published: March 2017

Given the limitations of existing measures of self-objectification, the purpose of the two studies presented in this article was to develop and validate a new measure of self-objectification, the Self-Objectification Beliefs and Behaviors Scale (SOBBS). In Study 1, a total of 654 women completed an online questionnaire including a pool of items designed to measure self-objectification. The item pool was constructed through focus groups and consultation with subject matter experts. Participants also completed existing measures of self-objectification and related constructs. A subset of participants completed the item pool at a 2-week interval to allow for assessment of test–retest reliability. A 14-item, two-factor measure of self-objectification was derived through exploratory factor analysis. Data provided evidence for the SOBBS’s internal consistency and test–retest reliability as well as its convergent, discriminant, and incremental validity via its relations with interpersonal sexual objectification, body image, disordered eating, and depression. In Study 2, the factor structure of the SOBBS was reevaluated using confirmatory factor analysis and validity was again evaluated; SOBBS scores correlated with public body consciousness, private and public self-consciousness, self-esteem, and sexual functioning. We discuss implications for assessment of self-objectification as part of efforts in prevention and treatment of body image and eating disturbances. We hope the development of a new measure of self-objectification prompts further study of the topic and that increased knowledge about self-objectification allows clinicians and researchers to develop interventions that foster greater resilience against sexual objectification.
Family Life Writ Small
Authors: Varat Deborah
Published: March 2017

Dollhouses today are primarily thought of as toys for children, but in earlier times, they were more typically the province of upper-class women who dedicated untold hours and great sums of money to creating alternate domestic spaces in miniature. These dollhouses present much more than mere straightforward records of domestic life, as hobbyists and collectors have typically understood them. Instead, they divulge important clues about aspirations in regard to domestic life, a subject of great interest in the Enlightenment period of liberalizing social values. Building and decorating a dollhouse, I argue, were like designing a miniature stage on which to fetishize the domestic world and explore conflicted urges of concealment and display.
Treatment of alumina refinery waste (red mud) through neutralization techniques: A review
Authors: Rai Suchita , Wasewar KL , Agnihotri A
Published: March 2017

In the Bayer process of extraction of alumina from bauxite, the insoluble product generated after bauxite digestion with sodium hydroxide at elevated temperature and pressure is known as ‘red mud’ or ‘bauxite residue’. This alumina refinery waste is highly alkaline in nature with a pH of 10.5–12.5 and is conventionally disposed of in mostly clay-lined land-based impoundments. The alkaline constituents in the red mud impose severe and alarming environmental problems, such as soil and air pollution. Keeping in view sustainable re-vegetation and residue management, neutralization/treatment of red mud using different techniques is the only alternative to make the bauxite residue environmentally benign. Hence, neutralization techniques, such as using mineral acids, acidic waste (pickling liquor waste), coal dust, superphosphate and gypsum as amenders, CO2, sintering with silicate material and seawater for treatment of red mud have been studied in detail. This paper is based upon and emphasizes the experimental work carried out for all the neutralization techniques along with a comprehensive review of each of the processes. The scope, applicability, limitations and feasibility of these processes have been compared exhaustively. Merits and demerits have been discussed using flow diagrams. All the techniques described are technically feasible, wherein findings obtained with seawater neutralization can be set as a benchmark for future work. Further studies should be focused on exploring the economical viability of these processes for better waste management and disposal of red mud.