bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness, Implementation, and Policy Diffusion: Or “Can We Make That Work for Us?”
Authors: Nicholson-Crotty Sean , Carley Sanya
Published: July 2015

Policy learning has been one of the primary mechanisms by which policy innovations are assumed to diffuse from one jurisdiction to another. Recent research suggests, however, that learning is more than simply observing policy adoption in other jurisdictions and must also include an assessment of the outcomes or effectiveness of those policies. This article argues that an assessment of the ability to implement an innovation is also likely to be a component of the learning process. Specifically, it argues that potential adopters are likely to ask not only, “Was the policy effective in other states that adopted it?” but also, “Can we make the policy work for us?” We test hypotheses drawn from this general argument in a directed dyad analysis of renewable portfolio standards in the American states between 1997 and 2009. Results indicate that shared implementation environments among jurisdictions help determine the impact that information about policy effectiveness has on adoption decisions. These findings suggest that implementation concerns may be an important part of the policy learning process.
Equilibrium of sortase A dimerization on Staphylococcus aureus cell surface mediates its cell wall sorting activity
Authors: Zhu Jie , Xiang Liang , Jiang Faqin , Zhang Zhiwen J
Published: July 2015

Staphylococcus aureus sortase A (SrtA) transpeptidase is a therapeutically important membrane-bound enzyme in Gram-positive bacteria, which organizes the covalently attached cell surface proteins on the peptidoglycan cell wall of the organism. Here, we report the direct observation of the highly selective homo-dimerization of SrtA on the cell membrane. To address the biological significance of the dimerization towards enzyme function, site-directed mutagenesis was performed to generate a SrtA mutant, which exists as monomer on the cell membrane. We observed that the cell surface display of adhesive proteins in S. aureus cells expressing monomeric SrtA mutant is more prominent than the cells expressing the wild-type enzyme. A cell-based invasion assay was also performed to evaluate the activities of wild-type SrtA and its monomeric mutant as well. Our data demonstrated that S. aureus cells expressing SrtA in monomeric form invade host mammalian cells more efficiently than those expressing wild-type SrtA in dimer-monomer equilibrium. The results suggested that the monomeric form of SrtA is more active than the dimeric form of the enzyme in terms of cell surface display of virulence factors for infection. This is the first study to present the oligomerization of SrtA and its related biological function on the cell membrane. Study of SrtA dimerization has implications for understanding its catalytic mechanism at the cellular level as well as the development of novel anti-infective agents.
Perceptions Related to Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Caucasian College Males
Authors: Abshire Demetrius A. , Lennie Terry A. , Moser Debra K. , Mudd-Martin Gia T.
Published: July 2015

Among younger adults, risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is higher among men than women. Young adult males in college engage in multiple behaviors that are associated with CVD risk. Although researchers have previously explored perceptions of factors related to hypertension in African American college males, surprisingly little is known about perceptions of CVD risk in Caucasian college males. A better understanding of these perceptions may be helpful in creating interventions to improve cardiovascular health in college men. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore Caucasian male college students’ perceptions of CVD risk. A qualitative descriptive study using semistructured, individual interviews was conducted using a sample of 10 undergraduate Caucasian males in college (mean age 20 years) free of CVD and not enrolled in a health-related major. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for themes using content analysis. The data reflected two primary themes regarding perceptions related to cardiovascular risk: barriers to implementing healthy lifestyle choices and impact of behaviors on CVD risk. Barriers to implementing healthy lifestyles included availability of unhealthy foods, time constraints, convenience, social influences, and ignoring long-term consequences of behaviors. Students primarily emphasized the importance of diet and physical activity in reducing CVD risk. Future research should focus on interventions to overcome college-specific barriers to engaging in healthy behaviors among men.
Acute rupture of a feeding artery aneurysm after embolization of a brain arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Reynolds Matthew R , Arias Eric J , Chatterjee Arindam R , Chicoine Michael R , Cross Dewitte T
Published: July 2015

Background

Staged endovascular embolization of large arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) is frequently performed to gradually reduce flow and prevent abrupt hemodynamic changes. While feeding artery aneurysms have been associated with increased risk of hemorrhage in the setting of AVMs, decisions regarding if and when to treat these aneurysms vary. Acute, fatal rupture of a feeding artery aneurysm following embolization of a large, unruptured AVM has been infrequently reported in the literature.

Case description

A 69-year-old female presented with headache and mild left hemiparesis referable to a 5 cm right fronto-parieto-temporal AVM with surrounding vasogenic edema. The AVM was associated with numerous bilateral feeding artery aneurysms (the largest was a 2 cm right middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation aneurysm). There was also a large, partially thrombosed venous varix. Staged embolization of the AVM was performed. Several hours after the third stage of her embolization, she became obtunded, with a fixed and dilated right pupil. Head computed tomography (CT) showed a large intraparenchymal hemorrhage with midline shift in the right sylvian fissure, remote from the AVM nidus. She was taken to surgery for a decompressive craniectomy and hematoma evacuation. The MCA aneurysm was confirmed to be the source of hemorrhage and it was clipped. Despite aggressive medical and surgical treatments, the patient died.

Conclusions

An increase in AVM feeding artery pressure following endovascular embolization may contribute to the rupture of a feeding artery aneurysm. For this reason, treatment of large arterial aneurysms on feeding pedicles should be considered prior to embolization of the AVM nidus.
The efficacy and safety of mirabegron compared with solifenacin in overactive bladder patients dissatisfied with previous antimuscarinic treatment due to lack of efficacy: results of a noninferiority, randomized, phase IIIb trial
Authors: Batista Jose E. , Kölbl Heinz , Herschorn Sender , Rechberger Tomasz , Cambronero Javier , Halaska Michael , Coppell Alex , Kaper Mathilde , Huang Moses , Siddiqui Emad ,   on behalf of the BEYOND study group
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To compare the efficacy and safety of mirabegron 50 mg and solifenacin 5 mg in overactive bladder (OAB) patients dissatisfied with previous antimuscarinic treatment due to lack of efficacy.

Patients and methods:

This randomized, double-blind, phase IIIb, noninferiority study, enrolled male and female patients aged ⩾18 years old, with symptoms of OAB for ⩾3 months, who were dissatisfied with their previous antimuscarinic drug due to lack of efficacy. A total of 1887 patients were randomized to receive mirabegron 50 mg ( n = 943) or solifenacin 5 mg ( n = 944) daily for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline to end of treatment in mean number of micturitions/24 h. Noninferiority was confirmed if the lower limit of the two-sided 95% confidence interval (CI) for the treatment difference between solifenacin and mirabegron was > −0.20. Secondary efficacy endpoints, which included change from baseline in mean number of incontinence episodes/24 h, urgency incontinence episodes/24 h, urgency episodes (grade 3 or 4)/24 h and nocturia episodes/24 h, were analyzed using analysis of covariance.

Results:

For the primary endpoint, adjusted mean treatment difference (95% CI) in mean number of micturitions/24 h was −0.18 (−0.42, 0.06) and therefore noninferiority of mirabegron to solifenacin was not demonstrated. Both treatments demonstrated clinically meaningful reductions in efficacy variables and were well tolerated, with a lower incidence of dry mouth with mirabegron.

Conclusions:

Noninferiority of mirabegron compared with solifenacin for reduction in micturition frequency could not be demonstrated in this population of OAB patients who were dissatisfied with previous antimuscarinic therapy due to lack of efficacy. Both mirabegron and solifenacin improved key OAB symptoms with no statistically significant differences observed between the two treatments. Both drugs were well tolerated.
Lipid peroxidation, proteins modifications, anti-oxidant enzymes activities and selenium deficiency in the plasma of hashitoxicosis patients
Authors: Mseddi Malek , Ben Mansour Riadh , Mnif Fatma , Gargouri Bochra , Abid Mohamed , Guermazi Fadhel , Attia Hamadi , Lassoued Saloua
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to explore the oxidative stress profile in hashitoxicosis (HTX) and to compare it with that of healthy subjects.

Patients and methods:

Spectrophotometric methods were used to evaluate the oxidative stress markers. The selenium level was investigated by atomic absorption.

Results:

High levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) and conjugated dienes were found in HTX patients ( p = 0.034 and p = 0.043, respectively) compared with healthy controls. For antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities increased, whereas that of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decreased ( p = 0.000, p = 0.014, p = 0.000, respectively) compared with controls. A reduction in the level of selenium ( p = 0.029) and thiol groups ( p = 0.008) were shown in patients; however, levels of carbonyl group and malondialdehyde (MDA) protein adducts decreased ( p = 0.000) compared with controls. Positive correlation was shown between levels of free thyroxine (FT4) and TBARS ( r = 0.711, p = 0.048) and between FT4 level and SOD activity ( r = 0.713, p = 0.047). Conversely, GPx activity presented a negative correlation with FT4 and free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels ( r = –0.934, p = 0.001; r = –0.993, p = 0.000, respectively). In addition, GPx activity showed positive correlation with selenium level ( r = 0.981, p = 0.019) and the FT3 level correlated negatively with the level of thiol groups ( r = –0.892, p = 0.017).

Conclusions:

This study shows the presence of an oxidative stress and selenium deficiency in HTX patients and suggests that the hyperthyroid state is strongly implicated in the establishment of this disturbed oxidative profile.
Recent advances in immunotherapy and vaccine development for peanut allergy
Authors: Anagnostou Katherine
Published: July 2015

Peanut allergy is a common problem and can be the cause of severe, life-threatening allergic reactions. It rarely resolves, with the majority of patients carrying the disease onto adulthood. Peanut allergy poses a significant burden on the quality of life of sufferers and their families, which results mainly from the fear of accidental peanut ingestion, but is also due to dietary and social restrictions. Current standard management involves avoidance, patient education and provision of emergency medication, for use in allergic reactions, when they occur. Efforts have been made to develop a vaccine for peanut allergy. Recent developments have also highlighted the use of immunotherapy, which has shown promise as an active form of treatment and may present a disease-modifying therapy for peanut allergy. So far, results, especially from oral immunotherapy studies, have shown good efficacy in achieving desensitization to peanut with a good safety profile. However, the capacity to induce long-term tolerance has not been demonstrated conclusively yet and larger, phase III studies are required to further investigate safety and efficacy of this intervention. Peanut immunotherapy is not currently recommended for routine clinical use or outside specialist allergy units.
Acute GVHD results in a severe DC defect that prevents T-cell priming and leads to fulminant cytomegalovirus disease in mice
Authors: Wikstrom Matthew E. , Fleming Peter , Kuns Rachel D. , Schuster Iona S. , Voigt Valentina , Miller Gregory , Clouston Andrew D. , Tey Siok-Keen , Andoniou Christopher E. , Hill Geoffrey R. , Degli-Esposti Mariapia A.
Published: July 2015

Key Points

GVHD elicits profound defects in DCs that prevent the priming of virus-specific T cells. Transfer of polyclonal T cells from immune donors at transplant provides effective antiviral immunity despite the presence of active GVHD.
Haploidentical transplant with posttransplant cyclophosphamide vs matched unrelated donor transplant for acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Ciurea Stefan O. , Zhang Mei-Jie , Bacigalupo Andrea A. , Bashey Asad , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Aljitawi Omar S. , Armand Philippe , Antin Joseph H. , Chen Junfang , Devine Steven M. , Fowler Daniel H. , Luznik Leo , Nakamura Ryotaro , O’Donnell Paul V. , Perales Miguel-Angel , Pingali Sai Ravi , Porter David L. , Riches Marcie R. , Ringdén Olle T. H. , Rocha Vanderson , Vij Ravi , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Champlin Richard E. , Horowitz Mary M. , Fuchs Ephraim J. , Eapen Mary
Published: July 2015

Key Points

Lower GVHD after haploidentical transplant with posttransplant cyclophosphamide compared with HLA-matched unrelated donor transplant. Comparable overall survival after haploidentical compared with matched unrelated donor transplant for AML.
Common fixed point of multifunctions on partial metric spaces
Authors: Aleomraninejad S Mohammad Ali , Erhan Inci M , Kutbi Marwan A , Shokouhnia Masoumeh
Published: July 2015

In this paper, some multifunctions on partial metric space are defined and common fixed points of such multifunctions are discussed. The results presented in the paper generalize some of the existing results in the literature. Several conclusions of the main results are given.
On an extension of contractivity conditions via auxiliary functions
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P , Karapınar Erdal , Roldán-López-de-Hierro Antonio-Francisco
Published: July 2015

In this manuscript, we study sufficient conditions on the functions that appears in very complex contractivity conditions introduced in a recent manuscript by Liu et al. in order to guarantee the existence and uniqueness of common fixed points of four self-mappings.
Mechanical design of negative stiffness honeycomb materials
Authors: Correa Dixon M , Seepersad Carolyn Conner , Haberman Michael R
Published: July 2015

A mechanical system exhibits negative stiffness when it requires a decrease in applied force to generate an increase in displacement. Negative stiffness behavior has been of interest for use in vibro-acoustic damping materials, vibration isolation mechanisms, and mechanical switches. This non-intuitive mechanical response can be elicited by transversely loading a curved beam structure of appropriate geometry, which can be designed to exhibit either one or two stable positions. The current work investigates honeycomb structures whose unit cells are created from curved beam structures that are designed to provide negative stiffness behavior and a single stable position. These characteristics allow the honeycomb to absorb large amounts of mechanical energy at a stable plateau stress, much like traditional honeycombs. Unlike traditional honeycombs, however, the mechanism underlying energy-absorbing behavior is elastic buckling rather than plastic deformation, which allows the negative stiffness honeycombs to recover from large deformations. Accordingly, they are compelling candidates for applications that require dissipation of multiple impacts. A detailed exploration of the unit cell design shows that negative stiffness honeycombs can be designed to dissipate mechanical energy in quantities that are comparable to traditional honeycomb structures at low relative densities. Furthermore, their unique cell geometry allows the designer to perform trade-offs between density, stress thresholds, and energy absorption capabilities. This paper describes these trade-offs and the underlying analysis.
Clinical work with people affected by public care or adoption
Authors: Hillen Thomas , Wright Hannah
Published: July 2015

Most individuals who have lived in foster homes, residential care or adoptive families for substantial periods (‘people affected by public care or adoption’) show normal psychological adjustment as adults, although rates of mental disorders, hospital admission and suicide are increased. Research focusing on the experiences of this group of people can help professionals better understand their behaviour and attitude towards help. Psychiatric symptoms can be multifaceted, including complex trauma presentations. The specific mental health needs of this population are increasingly being recognised in child and adolescent mental health services but less so in adult services. In this article we describe life experiences of people affected by public care or adoption, examine the lifelong impact of these experiences on mental health and functioning, and offer practical suggestions for clinical work with them.
Cancer, the mind and the person: what we know about the causes of cancer
Authors: Kissane David W. , Al-Asady Yasmin
Published: July 2015

At a time when patients are challenged to cope adaptively with both the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, clinicians need to respond appropriately to the many inevitable questions about the causes of cancer and contributing factors, including ‘Is this my fault?’. The evidence guiding answers to such questions has been confounded by many methodological challenges, but personality, stress and life events are no longer considered causes of cancer. However, social isolation, untreated depression and social deprivation continue to influence quality of life and reduce cancer survival times. Psychiatry might play a role in promoting lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of cancer, but more importantly it can influence disease progression by optimising patients' adaptation to the many challenges that cancer brings.
Drug-centred psychopharmacology: a non-diagnostic framework for drug treatment†
Authors: Yeomans David , Moncrieff Joanna , Huws Rhodri
Published: July 2015

We propose a ‘drug-centred’ framework for understanding the nature of drug treatment in psychiatry. In contrast to the prevailing ‘disease-centred’ model, which suggests that drugs work by targeting underlying abnormalities, the drug-centred model maintains that drugs exert their effects through their psychoactive properties. According to this view, distinctive drug-induced alterations to normal cognition, emotion and behaviour can modify the manifestations of mental disorders independent of diagnosis or aetiological theory. The drug-centred approach already forms the basis of some current practice, particularly off-label prescribing. Within this framework, the matching of drug-induced effects to symptoms or difficulties, taking into account the unwanted aspects of the drug-induced state, becomes the focus of a collaborative endeavour between doctor and patient, consistent with the principles of the recovery model. More research into the full range of effects that psychiatric drugs produce is required to ground a judicious drug-centred practice and inform psychiatric training.
Working with probation services and mentally disordered offenders
Authors: Bourne Rebekah , Rajput Rachna , Field Richard
Published: July 2015

A significant proportion of individuals in contact with probation services have mental health problems. Joint working between psychiatrists and probation is crucial to both diversion and resettlement of offenders with mental health conditions. In England and Wales, probation services are involved in the supervision and management of offenders if they receive a suspended or community sentence, or when they are released into the community on licence after serving a determinate, extended or life sentence. This article aims to promote awareness of joint working between probation and mental health services and the role of approved premises. It also describes a successful example of such joint working at Elliott House, approved premises for mentally disordered offenders in Birmingham, UK.
The straw man of prescribing in psychiatry
Authors: Taylor David
Published: July 2015

‘Drug-centred’ prescribing in psychiatry has been proposed as a new and better approach than the current ‘disease-centred’ alternative. It targets symptoms most important to the patient using the concept that psychotropics act indirectly by altering normal functioning. I contend that it is a straw man: psychiatrists already use ‘drug-centred’ prescribing, applying their knowledge of a drug's pharmacological profile and evidence base to treat each patient's symptoms, not their diagnostic classification. Furthermore, there is no compelling evidence that psychotropics act by altering ‘normal’ functioning: rather, they have diverse effects on different mental states.
Lithium treatment and risk for dementia in adults with bipolar disorder: Population-based cohort study
Authors: Gerhard Tobias , Devanand D. P. , Huang Cecilia , Crystal Stephen , Olfson Mark
Published: July 2015

Background

Lithium inhibits glycogen synthase kinase-3, an enzyme implicated in the pathogenesis of dementia.

Aims

To examine the association of lithium and dementia risk in a large claims-based US cohort of publicly insured older adults with bipolar disorder.

Method

The cohort included individuals ⩾50 years diagnosed with bipolar disorder who did not receive dementia-related services during the prior year. Each follow-up day was classified by past-year cumulative duration of lithium use (0, 1–60, 61–300 and 301–365 days). Dementia diagnosis was the study outcome. Anticonvulsants commonly used as mood stabilisers served as a negative control.

Results

Compared with non-use, 301–365 days of lithium exposure was associated with significantly reduced dementia risk (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.77, 95% CI 0.60–0.99). No corresponding association was observed for shorter lithium exposures (HR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.83–1.31 for 61–300 days; HR = 1.07, 95% CI 0.67–1.71 for 1–60 days) or for any exposure to anticonvulsants.

Conclusions

Continuous lithium treatment may reduce dementia risk in older adults with bipolar disorder.
Invited commentary
Authors: Sutherland Calum , Duthie Ashleigh C.
Published: July 2015

Alzheimer's disease clinical trials are failing at an alarming rate, highlighting the desperate need for novel thinking to combat this escalating health crisis. A recent large-scale population study indicates that lithium treatment reduces dementia development, supporting preclinical mechanistic evidence that this commonly used agent might be clinically valuable in dementia.
Manipulation of Interrenal Cell Function in Developing Zebrafish Using Genetically Targeted Ablation and an Optogenetic Tool
Authors: Gutierrez-Triana Jose Arturo , Herget Ulrich , Castillo-Ramirez Luis A. , Lutz Markus , Yeh Chen-Min , De Marco Rodrigo J. , Ryu Soojin
Published: July 2015

Zebrafish offer an opportunity to study conserved mechanisms underlying the ontogeny and physiology of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis. As the final effector of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis, glucocorticoids exert both rapid and long-term regulatory functions. To elucidate their specific effects in zebrafish, transgenic approaches are necessary to complement pharmacological studies. Here, we report a robust approach to specifically manipulate endogenous concentrations of cortisol by targeting heterologous proteins to interrenal cells using a promoter element of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein. To test this approach, we first used this regulatory region to generate a transgenic line expressing the bacterial nitroreductase protein, which allows conditional targeted ablation of interrenal cells. We demonstrate that this line can be used to specifically ablate interrenal cells, drastically reducing both basal and stress-induced cortisol concentrations. Next, we coupled this regulatory region to an optogenetic actuator, Beggiatoa photoactivated adenylyl cyclase, to increase endogenous cortisol concentrations in a blue light-dependent manner. Thus, our approach allows specific manipulations of steroidogenic interrenal cell activity for studying the effects of both hypo- and hypercortisolemia in zebrafish.
Deciphering the Hypoglycemic Glucagon Response: Development of a Graded Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemic Clamp Technique in Female Mice
Authors: Malmgren Siri , Ahrén Bo
Published: July 2015

Glucose lowering therapy in type 1 and type 2 diabetes is often associated with hypoglycemic events. To avoid this, glucose lowering therapies need to be developed that support the hypoglycemic defense mechanisms. Such development needs a tool for evaluating counterregulatory mechanisms in vivo. A sustained glucagon release during hypoglycemia is of most importance to hypoglycemic defense mechanisms. We have therefore developed a graded hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemic clamp in mice and used it to evaluate counterregulatory glucagon dynamics. Glucose was clamped at narrow intervals aiming at 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, and 6.0 mmol/L. Glucagon levels were increased during hypoglycemia in a glucose-dependent way with a glucagon counterregulatory threshold between 3.5 and 4.0 mmol/L. Modelling the glucose-glucagon relationship using a hyperbolic curve with the equation: plasma glucagon = −4.20 + 90.79/blood glucose showed high correlation. When comparing this method to the insulin tolerance test as an approach to study glucagon dynamics in vivo, we found that the graded clamp more efficiently evoked a robust, predictable, glucagon response with considerably less variation in blood glucose. In conclusion, we have developed a tool for the study of in vivo glucagon dynamics during hypoglycemia in mice and demonstrated a hyperbolic glucose-counterregulatory glucagon relationship.
Interest Rates, Leverage, and Business Cycles in Emerging Economies: The Role of Financial Frictions
Authors: Fernández Andrés , Gulan Adam
Published: July 2015

Countercyclical country interest rates have been shown to be an important characteristic of business cycles in emerging markets. In this paper we provide a microfounded rationale for this pattern by linking interest rate spreads to the dynamics of corporate leverage. For this purpose we embed a financial accelerator into a business cycle model of a small open economy and estimate it on a novel panel dataset for emerging economies that merges macroeconomic and financial data. The model accounts well for the empirically observed countercyclicality of interest rates and leverage, as well as for other stylized facts. (JEL E13, E32, E43, E44, F41, O11)
Cytochrome P450 enzymes: understanding the biochemical hieroglyphs
Authors: Groves John T.
Published: July 2015

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are the primary proteins of drug metabolism and steroid biosynthesis. These crucial proteins have long been known to harbor a cysteine thiolate bound to the heme iron. Recent advances in the field have illuminated the nature of reactive intermediates in the reaction cycle. Similar intermediates have been observed and characterized in novel heme-thiolate proteins of fungal origin. Insights from these discoveries have begun to solve the riddle of how enzyme biocatalyst design can afford a protein that can transform substrates that are more difficult to oxidize than the surrounding protein architecture.
Trialling the Use of Google Apps Together with Online Marking to Enhance Collaborative Learning and Provide Effective Feedback
Authors: Slee Nicky J. D. , Jacobs Marty H.
Published: July 2015

This paper describes a new approach to an ecology practical where the cohort was divided into four groups to collect data. Each group studied a different habitat; the cohort was further subdivided into seven groups to collect field data. Each of the four groups collaborated through Google Drive on descriptions and images of the habitat site, and also collaborated at the subgroup level on their own habitat data. The four groups then shared habitat descriptions with the aim to provide enough information to enable everyone to understand entire data set.

Group work was assessed online and feedback was given at both the group and subgroup levels. At the end of the first stage, peer assignment of all the work was carried out on an individual basis to engage students in other habitats. A complete set of data was finally provided to all students, so that individuals could carry out their own analysis of all four habitats; work was again assessed online and feedback given to each individual.

The three-stage assignment from group work to peer assessment to individual analysis was a success. The collaborative work through Google Drive enabled students to produce high quality documents that were valuable for the next step. The peer assignment enabled students to gain information on expected Minimum Standards and exposed them to a variety of habitats. The final stage was open ended and challenged students. This approach is recommended but the data collection process needs modification, and students need more guidance when completing the final stage of the assignment.
Mitochondrial DNA Damage and Diseases
Authors: Singh Gyanesh , Pachouri U C , Khaidem Devika Chanu , Kundu Aman , Chopra Chirag , Singh Pushplata
Published: July 2015

Various endogenous and environmental factors can cause mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage.  One of the reasons for enhanced mtDNA damage could be its proximity to the source of oxidants, and lack of histone-like protective proteins. Moreover, mitochondria contain inadequate DNA repair pathways, and, diminished DNA repair capacity may be one of the factors responsible for high mutation frequency of the mtDNA. mtDNA damage might cause impaired mitochondrial function, and, unrepaired mtDNA damage has been frequently linked with several diseases. Exploration of mitochondrial perspective of diseases might lead to a better understanding of several diseases, and will certainly open new avenues for detection, cure, and prevention of ailments.
Multifunctional educational establishment: a model of efficient resource management in digital education environment
Authors: �����������  , Pokosovskaya Olga
Published: July 2015

The article analyses the reasons for the emerge of educational complexes as multi-functional educational establishments at the time of renewal of Russian

education due to the Federal Law on Education in the Russian Federation and transition to new Federal State Educational Standards of pre-school,

primary general, basic general, and secondary general Education. The author considers characteristics (competitive positions, conditions, risks) of the

development of multifunctional educational establishments in Moscow regional system of education. Ways to implement optimization model of efficient

resource management in multifunctional educational establishment are suggested. The author reveals separate elements of the optimization

model to substantiate requirements for professional and special competencies of a Head of an educational establishment, and to demonstrate the

necessity and programs of manager�s training to work in the digital educational environment.
Assessing General Educational Institutions� Performance Against the Linear Quality Measurement Scale
Authors: ������  , Maslak Anatoliy , ����  , Leus O. , ���������  , Titarenko V.
Published: July 2015

The paper describes the procedure for measuring performance of general educational institutions, using the linear quality scale. Such assessments are

essential to monitoring and compare performance of general education schools. The questionnaire is developed to carry out operational measurement

of schools� performance as the set of indicators. The questionnaire is considered to be the tool for measuring the quality level of schools� performance

against the linear scale and helpful for monitoring and comparative analysis of schools. The analyses of the questionnaire quality and of the general

educational schools� performance assessment are carried out within the frameworks of the latent variables theory, based on the Rasch model. The

indicators, which fit better than others for differentiating between schools with poor and high performance levels, are discussed, as well as indicators,

considered as the most adequate and the less adequate for the assessment model. Characteristic curves of these indicators are provided. Positions

of schools assessed and of indicators are shown against one and the same linear scale of �school performance quality�. Results obtained are used to

compare quality of various schools� performance. As it is shown, the difference between lyceums and general education schools by the latent variable of

�performance quality� is wider, than difference between secondary and general education schools.
Organizational and Methodological Basics for Development of Measurement Tools for a Regional Education Quality Assessment System
Authors: ���������  , Denisenko Larisa
Published: July 2015

The paper shares the experience of developing the regional system for education quality assessment in the Novosibirsk Region. Education quality assessment is one of primary requirements, put forward by the Federal State Educational Standard. To facilitate the assessment procedure, assessment tool sets are formed, designed to measure the level of knowledge, skills and competencies mastered. Now it is important to complement traditional assessment tools with up-to-date ones. Test control can be helpful as one of the objective methods to assess the quality of theoretical training of learners. As the sound condition for successful use of test control method, the test materials should be thoroughly elaborated. The paper considers technological aspects of test materials development based on criteria-oriented approach and also shows how to use these test materials both for self-examination and external assessment. It is further stated, that computer-administered testing is used in the Novosibirsk Region as the main tool within procedures aimed at assessing the quality level of learners� theoretical training.
Theoretical Basics in Training Teachers in the Context of Shift to the �Mathematics and Informatics� Subject Domain
Authors: ��������  , Dzamykhov A.
Published: July 2015

Research activities on the ways of improving contents and structure of the school discipline of Informatics and intensified recently. So development of

conceptual basics for methodological system of Informatics teachers training, built in terms of developing due contents for the general educational

course of Informatics within the consistent subject domain of �Mathematics and Informatics�. The paper considers specifics of implementing the upto-

date informational and mathematical training of Informatics teachers, on the basics of both systematic and activity and personality-oriented approaches.
Educational Organization as a Subject of Management
Authors: ���������  , Burlakova I.
Published: July 2015

Educational organizations are complex, but the most developed social systems, embracing various subsystems. The main shaping features of any social

system are goals that help perform specific functions. Nowadays educational institutions that have chosen in favor of the quality strategy should

develop a pyramid of goals understandable to all their employees. Each employee should know the goals of the whole team, its general ideas, his\her

personal role in the educational process and in the structural unit. Universal properties of the social organization are the following: apartness, direct

management, activity self-regulation capacities, sound organizational culture.
Utilization of Audio Bioha rmony to Improve Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) Growth in the Nursery
Authors: Afifah Elya , Nugrahani Mudita , Prasetyo Nur , Berlian Intan , Rinojati Nofitri , Kadarisman Nur
Published: July 2015

Sound waves research in Indonesia has been carried on the tea crop, peanuts, soybeans and potatoes. The result showed that there was an increase in the effectiveness of nutrient uptake and significant growth rate. This research used manipulated frequency of insect sounds, called “Garengpung”, is known as Audio Bioharmony (ABH). However, application of this technology has not been done in rubber, therefore the aim of the study was to find out effect of ABH toward rubber nursery and to find optimum frequency for rubber nursery. The experiment was arranged in completely randomized design, with a frequency of 0 Hz, 3000 Hz, 3500Hz, 4000 Hz, 4500 Hz and 5000 Hz. The second factor was levels of fertilizer 50%, 75% and 100%. The results showed that the application of sound wave significantly influence growth rate of rubber in the nursery, while the level of fertilizer application had no significant effect. There was no significant interaction between sound wave frequency and fertilizer levels. The best plant height growth rate observed in treatment with 3500 Hz and 75% fertilizer level. The largest stem diameter growth rate was observed in treatment with 4000 Hz and 50% fertilizer level. Based on the regression curves the best frequency to obtain optimal growth of stem diameter was 4271.9 Hz.
Leaf Morphological Chara cteristics of Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) as Affected by Different Colored Plastic Mulch
Authors: Franquera Edmar
Published: July 2015

Looseleaf and Romaine lettuce were grown in a vegetable experimental station in the University of the Philippines Los Banos to determine the effect of the different colored plastic mulch on the leaf morphological characteristics of the two lettuce varieties. A split plot following the Randomized Completely Block Design was used. Results of the study showed that red plastic mulch exhibited better response in terms of the different leaf morphology of the leaf lettuce. Lettuce leaf length, leaf diameter, leaf fresh and dry weight were higher when grown with red plastic mulch compared with the other colored plastic mulch. The result of the study showed that the color of the mulch had significant effect on the leaf morphological characteristics of the leaf lettuce.
Empirical Proof on B enefits of Integrated Farming System in Smallholder farms in Odisha
Authors: Dash A , Ananth P , Singh S , Banja B , Sahoo p , Pati B , Jayasankar P
Published: July 2015

Integrated farming system (IFS) is considered as one of the best option towards intensification of small holder farm income to ensure sustainable livelihood. Integration of resources is made through a combination of land, water and animal resources of a farm through careful planning including recycling of bio-resources. Governments and development agencies have designed projects/programmes in promoting IFS through demonstration of successful models and other means. Integration of resources is a process which involves great thought in investing in one of the resource combined and gaining benefits. This paper entails information on IFS adopted farms by analyzing three cases promoted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Khordha under ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture mandated to work on technology assessment, refinement and demonstration. All the IFS analyzed are pond based integrations involving crop-livestock and fish as major with minor integrations of enterprises like mushroom cultivation. The gross income of case 1 farmer was found to be Rs 5,19,600 from 0.8 ha in a pond based farming system followed by case 2 earning Rs 3,75,920 ( gross income) from an area of 1.872 ha crop based farming system and Rs 1, 50, 300 ( gross income) from an area of 0.8 ha crop based farming system adopting. The details of the case studies and economics are presented and these model farms play a great role in motivating nearby farmers in adoption of IFS. The study also concluded that adoption of IFS is profitable.
Effect of Zinc and Boron on Gr owth, Seed Yield and Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Arka Nishanth
Authors: Deepika C
Published: July 2015

The field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Navile, Shimoga during kharif, 2013 and Laboratory studies were conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, UAS, Bangalore. The four levels of nutrients M1:75:40:40NPK kg ha-1M2: RDF+ZnSo4 @10 kg ha-1 M3: RDF + Borax 0.1% spray at bud initiation stage M4: RDF + ZnSo4 @ 10 kg ha-1 + Borax (0.1%) spray at bud initiation stage. The combination of RDF + ZnSo4 @ 10 kg ha-1 + Borax 0.1% spray at bud initiation stage was effective in maximum plant height (33.80 cm),number of leaves plant-1 (34.30) at bud initiation stage, length of inflorescence (93.80 cm),number of siliqua plant-1(363),siliqua weight plant-1 (26.30 g), siliqua length (5.34 cm),No. of seeds siliqua-1(5.67),seed recovery per cent (92.87), seed yield(199.93 kg ha-1), germination per cent(92.20), seedling vigour index I &II (2100 & 467) compared to control with (30.09 cm, 26.60, 81.70 cm,13.80 g,4.63 cm,4.59,80.38%,138.75 kg ha-1, 83.70%,1243 and 357 respectively.
Healing identity by telling childbirth stories on the internet
Authors: MacLellan Jennifer
Published: July 2015

Background:

The use of the internet in pregnancy and parenthood is high, providing both practical information and support. Sharing stories and experiences among site users is a principal motivation for use and can offer a safe space to try out the new identity of mother.

Methods:

Using a narrative analysis approach, 15 consecutively posted self-classified ‘trauma’ birth stories were analysed from the UK parenting site Netmums. The aim was to investigate the purpose of sharing traumatic stories with the anonymous users of the site.

Results:

A ‘protest event’ was found in each narrative, changing the power dynamic of the story and allowing the narrator to regain agency in an apparently out-of control situation. Three excerpts are presented to illustrate the common themes of healing identity, maintaining control and restoring coherence.

Discussion:

These three themes link to the meta-theme of performing control in the absence of an expected context of care, giving three practice points for reflection: management of antenatal birth expectations through joint birth planning with the midwife; offering postnatal debriefing in unusual or complicated birth experiences could support the healing of the woman's identity; awareness of sensitivity among birthing women to the power dynamic in the birthing room and their potential interpretation of institutional policies and practices.
Pregnant women's reactions to routine CO monitoring in the antenatal clinic
Authors: O'Connell Maeve , Duaso Maria J
Published: July 2015

Guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE, 2010) recommend the use of routine carbon monoxide (CO) monitoring in all pregnant women. However, there is no research describing pregnant women's experiences of being offered the CO test at booking.

Method:

This was part of a phenomenological study conducted to examine midwives’ experience of using CO monitoring for smoking cessation in pregnancy. Individual semi-structured interviews were carried out and recorded with 10 midwives who use CO monitoring at booking. They were asked about women's reactions to the test. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's (1978) approach and bracketing.

Results:

Midwives reported that women were generally happy to accept the test. However, pregnant women appeared to be uninformed about it. Other reactions described include curiosity, shock, relief, guilt and surprise at the results.

Conclusion:

Overall, women's reactions were positive but an increased public awareness of the test would smooth its implementation.
Informing clients of risk: Immediate implications of a landmark supreme court decision
Authors: Terry Louise , Deegan Maura
Published: July 2015

In March 2015, the Supreme Court published its decision in Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board, a case involving the failure to warn a pregnant diabetic woman of the risk of shoulder dystocia and the possibility of having a caesarean section to avoid this risk. The risk materialised and the baby suffered oxygen deprivation. The lower courts had applied the test for the standard of care that had been in place since 1985, which has been criticised for protecting doctors not patients. The Supreme Court has introduced a new, autonomy-based, patient-centred standard. This article examines the case and explains the importance of the change for future midwifery practice. When disclosing risks, midwives must identify what a reasonable person in the woman's position, with this woman's specific characteristics, would consider a significant risk. They could be held liable for non-disclosure even if the woman does not ask about specific risks.
Promoting vitamin D uptake in infants and children
Authors: Patience Sara
Published: July 2015

Despite it being thought of as a disease of the past, children in the UK, particularly those from high-risk groups, are at risk of rickets. The latest National Diet and Nutrition Survey estimated that 7.5% of 1½–3-year-olds were deficient in vitamin D ( Bates et al, 2014 ). Vitamin D deficiency presents with skeletal and non-skeletal manifestations. With the sun being the main source of vitamin D, there is a reliance on supplementation across most of the UK. This article looks at manifestations of vitamin D deficiency, the identification of at-risk groups and recommendations for supplementation.
Veterinary laparoscopy and minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Tapia-Araya Angelo E , Martin-Portugués Idoia Díaz-Güemes , Sánchez-Margallo Francisco M
Published: July 2015

Laparoscopic surgery has benefited from many technical advances over recent years, achieving better results and reducing surgical complications. The wide range of equipment and instruments available allow for the performance of surgical procedures without the large incisions that characterise conventional surgery. Laparoscopic surgery constitutes a growing area of expertise in clinical practice, where the main beneficiaries are the patients. The most common procedures such as organ biopsy or ovariectomy, and other more complex surgeries such as adrenalectomy and pericardiectomy are described.
Management of opioid-induced constipation for people in palliative care
Authors: Prichard David , Bharucha Adil
Published: July 2015

Constipation is common in the palliative population. Opioid medications, which are frequently prescribed to this cohort, represent a significant risk factor for this condition. Opioid-induced constipation may be of such severity that opioid doses are reduced or missed, and analgesia and quality of life are therefore reduced. However, underlying chronic constipation, local and systemic disease effects, and other medications may also precipitate constipation in this population. The assessment and treatment of constipation in a palliative individual should be undertaken in a fashion similar to that used in non-palliative patients. Initial management should include minimising exposure to predisposing factors and general measures such as encouraging hydration, fibre intake and mobility. Pharmacological treatment should commence with a stool softener and a stimulant laxative. Recently published literature demonstrates that newer laxatives, including lubiprostone (a chloride channel activator) and prucalopride (a 5-HT4 receptor agonist) can effectively treat opioid-induced constipation. For patients not responding to laxatives, opioid antagonists (non-specific or peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists) can be co-prescribed with laxatives. These agents have also proven efficacy in treating opioid-induced constipation. This review discusses the recent literature regarding the management of opioid-induced constipation and provides a rational approach to assessing and managing constipation in the palliative population.