bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiagent Decision Making in Collaborative Decision Networks by Utility Cluster Based Partial Evaluation
Authors: Xiang Yang , Hanshar Frank
Published: April 2015

We consider optimal multiagent cooperative decision making in stochastic environments. The focus is on simultaneous decision making, during which agents cooperate by limited communication. We model the multiagent system as a collaborative decision network (CDN). Several techniques are developed to improve efficiency for decision making with CDNs. We present an equivalent transformation of CDN subnets to facilitate model manipulation. We propose partial evaluation to allow action profiles evaluated with reduced computation. We decompose a CDN subnet, based on clustering of utility variables. A general simultaneous decision making algorithm suite is developed that embeds these techniques. We show that the new algorithm suite improves efficiency by a combination of a linear factor and an exponential factor.
EMD fractal feature extraction technique in fingerprint of medicinal herbs
Authors: Du Jianwei , Xu Zhengguang , Mu Zhichun , Tang Yuan Yan , Cui Limin , Duan Tianxuan
Published: April 2015

This paper proposes the fractal features for glycyrrhiza fingerprint of medicinal herbs, to obtain the intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) from high to low frequency by using empirical mode decomposition (EMD). The EMD fractal features are extracted through computing the fractal dimensions of each IMF. The novel approach is applied to the recognition of the three types of glycyrrhiza fingerprints. Experiments show that EMD fractal features have better recognition rate than that of the traditional ones in the case of concentration-change, i.e. the number of peak and peak drift of sample which has slight changes. An existing method to extract the fractal features for fingerprint of medicinal herbs based on wavelet transform, which is called fractal-wavelet features, was presented. This method has anti-jamming property against the change of samples concentration. However, the recognition rate based on fractal-wavelet features is not satisfactory when fingerprint of medicinal herbs has some slight concentrations changes, the number of peak and peak drift of samples are processed in the special situation.
On minimal singular values of random matrices with correlated entries
Authors: Götze F. , Naumov A. , Tikhomirov A.
Published: April 2015

Let X be a random matrix whose pairs of entries Xjk and Xkj are correlated and vectors (Xjk, Xkj), for 1 ≤ j < k ≤ n, are mutually independent. Assume that the diagonal entries are independent from off-diagonal entries as well. We assume that [Formula: see text], for any j, k = 1, …, n and 𝔼 XjkXkj = ρ for 1 ≤ j < k ≤ n. Let Mn be a non-random n × n matrix with ‖Mn‖ ≤ KnQ, for some positive constants K > 0 and Q ≥ 0. Let sn(X + Mn) denote the least singular value of the matrix X + Mn. It is shown that there exist positive constants A and B depending on K, Q, ρ only such that [Formula: see text] As an application of this result we prove the elliptic law for this class of matrices with non-identically distributed correlated entries.
Pursuing the Chinese Dream: Institutional Changes of Chinese Diplomacy under President Xi Jinping
Authors: Zhao Kejin , Gao Xin
Published: April 2015

The past few years have witnessed a growing appeal, both from home and from abroad, that China should reform its diplomatic system and proactively embrace the historic transformation of its relationship with the world. Especially since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2012, China's diplomatic system has undergone multiple changes within its basic framework. From the perspective of institutional dynamics, the system is shifting from emphasizing the role of serving the country's development to the role of serving the Chinese Dream, that is, the great renewal of the Chinese nation, putting more weight on top-level design, strategic coordination, and multi-dimensional diplomacy. These changes are determined by China's changing role in the world as well as the intrinsic demands of China's social development. In the future, it is expected that China's diplomatic system will maintain such a course of transformation, so as to reach a new balance between the existing international system and China's domestic governance system.
China's Power Status Change: East Asian Challenges for Xi Jinping's Foreign Policy
Authors: Cook Malcolm
Published: April 2015

Rapid changes in power relativities inevitably aggravate security fears among smaller, weaker states and those in relative decline. The closer these states are to the major power and the deeper their historical relationships with it, the more this is true. It is preponderant on rising or remerging major powers to assuage these worries in word and action. If not, the rising or reemerging power will face resistance. Under Xi Jinping, Chinese foreign policy has embraced China's status as the leading power in East Asia and one of two major powers globally. Acceptance and support for China's new major power status and corresponding regional initiatives like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and a "new Asian security order" face three particular challenges in East Asia. The first challenge is increasingly public concerns about possible future Chinese hegemony with the East and South China Sea disputes, in particular aggravating these worries among the non-Chinese disputants. The second challenge is the disruption of the liberal virtuous cycle between growing economic interdependence and more aligned strategic interests and greater strategic trust. The third is the strengthening of alliance and security partnerships between the United States and a growing number of East Asian states from Vietnam and Singapore to the Philippines and Japan. Chinese foreign policy under and after Xi Jinping will have to respond to these concerns and reassure its East Asian neighbours in order to succeed.
Expansion of prostate epithelial progenitor cells after inflammation of the mouse prostate
Authors: Wang Liang , Zoetemelk Marloes , Chitteti Brahmananda R. , Ratliff Timothy L. , Myers Jason D. , Srour Edward F. , Broxmeyer Hal , Jerde Travis J.
Published: April 2015

Prostatic inflammation is a nearly ubiquitous pathological feature observed in specimens from benign prostate hyperplasia and prostate cancer patients. The microenvironment of the inflamed prostate is highly reactive, and epithelial hyperplasia is a hallmark feature of inflamed prostates. How inflammation orchestrates epithelial proliferation as part of its repair and recovery action is not well understood. Here, we report that a novel epithelial progenitor cell population is induced to expand during inflammation. We used sphere culture assays, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry to show that this population is increased in bacterially induced inflamed mouse prostates relative to naïve control prostates. We confirmed from previous reports that this population exclusively possesses the ability to regrow entire prostatic structures from single cell culture using renal grafts. In addition, putative progenitor cells harvested from inflamed animals have greater aggregation capacity than those isolated from naïve control prostates. Expansion of this critical cell population requires IL-1 signaling, as IL-1 receptor 1-null mice exhibit inflammation similar to wild-type inflamed animals but exhibit significantly reduced progenitor cell proliferation and hyperplasia. These data demonstrate that inflammation promotes hyperplasia in the mouse prostatic epithelium by inducing the expansion of a selected epithelial progenitor cell population in an IL-1 receptor-dependent manner. These findings may have significant impact on our understanding of how inflammation promotes proliferative diseases such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer, both of which depend on expansion of cells that exhibit a progenitor-like nature.
Cooperative vocal control in marmoset monkeys via vocal feedback
Authors: Choi Jung Yoon , Takahashi Daniel Y. , Ghazanfar Asif A.
Published: April 2015

Humans adjust speech amplitude as a function of distance from a listener; we do so in a manner that would compensate for such distance. This ability is presumed to be the product of high-level sociocognitive skills. Nonhuman primates are thought to lack such socially related flexibility in vocal production. Using predictions from a simple arousal-based model whereby vocal feedback from a conspecific modulates the drive to produce a vocalization, we tested whether another primate exhibits this type of cooperative vocal control. We conducted a playback experiment with marmoset monkeys and simulated “far-away” and “nearby” conspecifics using contact calls that differed in sound intensity. We found that marmoset monkeys increased the amplitude of their contact calls and produced such calls with shorter response latencies toward more distant conspecifics. The same was not true in response to changing levels of background noise. To account for how simulated conspecific distance can change both the amplitude and timing of vocal responses, we developed a model that incorporates dynamic interactions between the auditory system and limbic “drive” systems. Overall, our data show that, like humans, marmoset monkeys cooperatively control the acoustics of their vocalizations according to changes in listener distance, increasing the likelihood that a conspecific will hear their call. However, we propose that such cooperative vocal control is a system property that does not necessitate any particularly advanced sociocognitive skill. At least in marmosets, this vocal control can be parsimoniously explained by the regulation of arousal states across two interacting individuals via vocal feedback.
FOXA2 regulates a network of genes involved in critical functions of human intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Gosalia Nehal , Yang Rui , Kerschner Jenny L. , Harris Ann
Published: April 2015

The forkhead box A (FOXA) family of pioneer transcription factors is critical for the development of many endoderm-derived tissues. Their importance in regulating biological processes in the lung and liver is extensively characterized, though much less is known about their role in intestine. Here we investigate the contribution of FOXA2 to coordinating intestinal epithelial cell function using postconfluent Caco2 cells, differentiated into an enterocyte-like model. FOXA2 binding sites genome-wide were determined by ChIP-seq and direct targets of the factor were validated by ChIP-qPCR and siRNA-mediated depletion of FOXA1/2 followed by RT-qPCR. Peaks of FOXA2 occupancy were frequent at loci contributing to gene ontology pathways of regulation of cell migration, cell motion, and plasma membrane function. Depletion of both FOXA1 and FOXA2 led to a significant reduction in the expression of multiple transmembrane proteins including ion channels and transporters, which form a network that is essential for maintaining normal ion and solute transport. One of the targets was the adenosine A2Breceptor, and reduced receptor mRNA levels were associated with a functional decrease in intracellular cyclic AMP. We also observed that 30% of FOXA2 binding sites contained a GATA motif and that FOXA1/A2 depletion reduced GATA-4, but not GATA-6 protein levels. These data show that FOXA2 plays a pivotal role in regulating intestinal epithelial cell function. Moreover, that the FOXA and GATA families of transcription factors may work cooperatively to regulate gene expression genome-wide in the intestinal epithelium.
Relationship between the Increased Haemostatic Properties of Blood Platelets and Oxidative Stress Level in Multiple Sclerosis Patients with the Secondary Progressive Stage
Authors: Morel Agnieszka , Bijak Michał , Miller Elżbieta , Rywaniak Joanna , Miller Sergiusz , Saluk Joanna
Published: April 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the autoimmune disease of the central nervous system with complex pathogenesis, different clinical courses and recurrent neurological relapses and/or progression. Despite various scientific papers that focused on early stage of MS, our study targets selective group of late stage secondary progressive MS patients. The presented work is concerned with the reactivity of blood platelets in primary hemostasis in SP MS patients. 50 SP MS patients and 50 healthy volunteers (never diagnosed with MS or other chronic diseases) were examined to evaluate the biological activity of blood platelets (adhesion, aggregation), especially their response to the most important physiological agonists (thrombin, ADP, and collagen) and the effect of oxidative stress on platelet activity. We found that the blood platelets from SP MS patients were significantly more sensitive to all used agonists in comparison with control group. Moreover, the platelet hemostatic function was advanced in patients suffering from SP MS and positively correlated with increased production ofO2-∙in these cells, as well as with Expanded Disability Status Scale. We postulate that the increased oxidative stress in blood platelets in SP MS may be primarily responsible for the altered haemostatic properties of blood platelets.
Laparoscopic Nephrectomy with Adrenalectomy for Synchronous Adrenal Myelolipoma and Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Senthil Kallappan , Ramalingam Manickam , Janardhan Karpagam , Murugesan Anandan , Pai Mizar Ganapathy
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Adrenal myelolipomas are uncommon nonfunctioning tumors of the adrenal. Synchronous renal cell carcinomas with adrenal myelolipomas are very rare. We present the case report of adrenal myelolipoma with synchronous RCC managed laparoscopically.Case Report. A 60-year-old old gentleman presented with incidental right upper polar mass with right adrenal mass. Metastatic work-up was negative. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy with adrenalectomy was done under general anesthesia. The biopsy report was right kidney clear cell adenocarcinoma (T1b) with right adrenal myelolipoma.Conclusion. This is the first case report of laparoscopic adrenalectomy with nephrectomy for ipsilateral synchronous renal cell carcinoma with adrenal myelolipoma.
Numerical Simulation on Interface Evolution and Impact of Flooding Flow
Authors: Hu J. , Lu Z. Q. , Kan X. Y. , Sun S. L.
Published: April 2015

A numerical model based on Navier-Stokes equation is developed to simulate the interface evolution of flooding flows. The two-dimensional fluid domain is discretised by structured rectangular elements according to finite volume method (FVM). The interface between air and liquid is captured through compressive interface capturing scheme for arbitrary meshes (CICSAM) based on the idea of volume of fluid (VOF). semiimplicit method for pressure linked equations (SIMPLE) scheme is used for the pressure-velocity coupling. A second order upwind discretization scheme is applied for the momentum equations. Both laminar flow model and turbulent flow model have been studied and the results have been compared. Previous experiments and other numerical solutions are employed to verify the present results on a single flooding liquid body. Then the simulation is extended to two colliding flooding liquid bodies. The impacting force of the flooding flow on an obstacle has been also analyzed. The present results show a favourable agreement with those by previous simulations and experiments.
A Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma Presenting as an Adrenal Incidentaloma in a Subject on Warfarin
Authors: Khan Ishrat N. , Adlan Mohamed A. , Stechman Michael J. , Premawardhana Lakdasa D.
Published: April 2015

Adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) are mostly benign and nonsecretory. Management algorithms lack sensitivity when assessing malignant potential, although functional status is easier to assess. We present a subject whose AI was a retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma (RL).Case Presentation. A woman on warfarin with SLE and the antiphospholipid syndrome, presented with left loin pain. She was normotensive and clinically normal. Ultrasound scans demonstrated left kidney scarring, but CT scans revealed an AI. MRI scans later confirmed the AI without significant fat and no interval growth. Cortisol after 1 mg dexamethasone, urinary free cortisol and catecholamines, plasma aldosterone renin ratio, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone were within the reference range. Initially, adrenal haemorrhage was diagnosed because of warfarin therapy and the acute presentation. However, she underwent adrenalectomy because of interval growth of the AI. Histology confirmed an RL. The patient received adjuvant radiotherapy.Discussion. Our subject presented with an NSAI. However, we highlight the following: (a) the diagnosis of adrenal haemorrhage in this anticoagulated woman was revised because of interval growth; (b) the tumour, an RL, was relatively small at diagnosis; (c) this subject has survived well over 60 months despite an RL perhaps because of her acute presentation and early diagnosis of a small localised tumour.
Biomass Modelling ofAndrostachys johnsoniiPrain: A Comparison of Three Methods to Enforce Additivity
Authors: Magalhães Tarquinio Mateus , Seifert Thomas
Published: April 2015

Three methods of enforcing additivity of tree component biomass estimates into total tree biomass estimates forAndrostachys johnsoniiPrain were studied and compared, namely, the conventional (CON) method (a method that consists of using the same independent variables for all tree component models, and for total tree model, and the same weights to enforce additivity), seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) with parameter restriction, and nonlinear seemingly unrelated regression (NSUR) with parameter restriction. The CON method was found to be statistically superior to any other method of enforcing additivity, yielding excellent fit statistics and unbiased biomass estimates. The NSUR method ranked second best but was found to be biased. The SUR method was found to be the worst; it exhibited large bias and had a poor fit for the biomass. Therefore, we recommend that only the CON and NSUR methods should be used for further estimates, provided that their limitations are considered, that is, exclusion of contemporaneous correlations for the CON method and consideration of the significant bias of the NSUR method.
A Multilevel Correction Method for Convection-Diffusion Eigenvalue Problems
Authors: Peng Zhonglan , Bi Hai , Li Hao , Yang Yidu
Published: April 2015

We propose a multilevel correction method for the convection-diffusion eigenvalue problems which is suitable for not only simple but also multiple eigenvalues. And we prove that the accuracy of resulting eigenpair approximations can be improved after each correction step. The scheme is easy to realize with Matlab, and numerical results are satisfactory.
Anti-CCP Antibodies and Rheumatological Findings in Brazilian Patients with Crohn's Disease
Authors: Mocelin Valmir , Nisihara Renato Mitsunori , Utiyama Shirley R.R. , Kotze Lorete M.S. , Ramos Jr. Odery , Messias-Reason Iara
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims: Arthropathy is the most common extraintestinal manifestation observed in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). The present study aimed to screen rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using anti-CCP antibodies and rheumatoid factor (RF) in CD patients from Southern Brazil. Additionally, the presence of arthralgia and spondyloarthritis (SpA) was evaluated. CD patients, previously diagnosed using clinical data, imaging tests, endoscopic and histological findings, were included consecutively. Methods: A total of 100 patients participated in the study, of which 60% were female, with a mean age of 41.9 ± 12.04 (16-83 years). As controls, sera from 100 healthy individuals from the same geographic area were analyzed. Results: Arthralgias were present in 55% of the patients, being more frequent in women (65.5%; 36/55), than in males (34.5%). No association was found between arthralgia and the treatment method used. Six patients (6/100) had SpA previously diagnosed. In the CD group, anti-CCP was positive only in one patient, while RF was positive in 7 patients (7%; 7/100). The anti-CCP positive patient (woman, 38 years old, RF positive), fulfilled the ACR criteria and was diagnosed as RA. In the control group, anti-CCP antibodies were detected in 1% (1/100) and RF was positive in 6 of the samples (6%). Conclusion: Our data showed low frequency of anti-CCP antibodies and RF in Brazilian patients with CD. Additionally, we found a high prevalence of arthralgia in these patients, with 6% of them diagnosed with SpA.
Assessment of Small Airways with Computed Tomography: Mosaic Attenuation or Lung Density?
Authors: Oguma Tsuyoshi , Niimi Akio , Hirai Toyohiro , Jinnai Makiko , Matsumoto Hisako , Ito Isao , Yamaguchi Masafumi , Matsuoka Hirofumi , Otsuka Kojiro , Takeda Tomoshi , Nakaji Hitoshi , Chin Kazuo , Mishima Michiaki
Published: April 2015

Background: Computed tomography (CT) assessment of air trapping has been considered useful as a measure of small airway disease. Mean lung density (MLD) and the percentage of the lung field occupied by low attenuation area (LAA%) can be evaluated automatically, and their expiratory/inspiratory (E/I) ratios correlate with asthma severity and spirometry parameters. However, mosaic attenuation, another indicator of air trapping, has been assessed visually, and its functional relevance remains controversial. Objectives: This retrospective study was conducted to correlate mosaic attenuation, which was assessed visually and automatically, and the E/I ratios of MLD and LAA% (defined as areas <-960 Hounsfield units) with clinical and physiological variables, including impulse oscillometry (IOS) indices. Material and Methods: In 36 nonsmoking patients with stable asthma, the lungs were scanned at full inspiration and full expiration. Mosaic attenuation was measured visually and automatically, by counting areas with CT values higher than the surrounding areas. MLD and LAA% were measured using our validated method. Spirometry, IOS, exhaled NO and the sputum eosinophil count were evaluated. Results: The automatic results and visual scores of mosaic attenuation correlated well on expiratory scans (r = 0.894) and to a lesser degree on inspiratory scans (r = 0.629; p < 0.0001 for both). However, only the E/I ratios of MLD and LAA% correlated with forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity of spirometry and the IOS indices of resistance from 5 to 20 Hz and the integrated area of low-frequency reactance. Conclusions: Our automatic method for analysis of mosaic attenuation is likely useful, but the results themselves may not be reflecting small airway involvement of asthma, unlike the E/I ratios of MLD and LAA%.
Impact of Alcohol Consumption on the Outcome of Ischemic Stroke and Thrombolysis
Authors: Lemarchand Eloïse , Gauberti Maxime , Martinez de Lizarrondo Sara , Villain Hélène , Repessé Yohann , Montagne Axel , Vivien Denis , Ali Carine , Rubio Marina
Published: April 2015

Background and Purpose—

Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only acute treatment for ischemic stroke. Unfortunately, the benefit of tPA-driven thrombolysis is not systematic, and understanding the reasons for this is mandatory. The balance between beneficial and detrimental effects of tPA might explain the limited overall efficiency of thrombolysis. Here, we investigated whether this balance could be influenced by excessive alcohol intake.

Methods—

We used a murine model of thromboembolic stroke, coupled to an array of biochemical assays, near-infrared or magnetic resonance imaging scans, 2-photon microscopy, hydrodynamic transfections, and immunohistological techniques.

Results—

We found that 6 weeks of alcohol consumption (10% in drinking water) worsens ischemic lesions and cancels the beneficial effects of tPA-induced thrombolysis. We accumulate in vivo and in vitro evidence showing that this aggravation is correlated with a decrease in lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1–mediated hepatic clearance of tPA in alcohol-exposed mice.

Conclusions—

An efficient liver-driven clearance of tPA might influence the safety of thrombolysis after stroke.
Error Analysis of a Conceptual Cloud Doppler Stereoradar with Polarization Diversity for Better Understanding Space Applications
Authors: Battaglia Alessandro , Kollias Pavlos
Published: April 2015

An error budget analysis is performed for retrieval of along-track winds based on the design of a spaceborne Doppler radar using polarization diversity. The analysis is conducted within the framework of a case study of an Atlantic hurricane. The proposed concept consists of either a Ka-band or W-band stereoradar mounted on an LEO satellite equipped with both nadir- and forward-viewing beams and with an optional cross-scanning capability. Such a radar design is intended for observing the microphysical and dynamical structures of cloud systems, including disturbed mesoscale convective systems. Because of the high winds involved in such weather phenomena and because of the Doppler fading introduced by platform motion, polarization diversity is adopted. The simulation framework enables a breakdown of the Doppler velocity measurement error budget into its most important components, that is, nonuniform beamfilling, multiple scattering, and inherent signal noise. The impact of each of these error terms on the total error depends on the adopted integration length, the number of scanned tracks, and the specifics of the radar. This allows for optimally selecting an integration length suitable for minimizing the total rms velocity error. The analysis shows that the use of a large antenna could achieve impressive measurement accuracy of the along-line-of-sight wind velocities. Notably, this would be the case for integration lengths longer than 3 km, even when carrying out cross-track scanning for up to 17 separate tracks. Examples of retrieved along-track wind fields also reveal that the large antenna configurations are capable of identifying and quantifying the foremost dynamic features (e.g., vertical wind shear and convergence/divergence regions).
Carbon fiber production costing: a modular approach
Authors: Ellringmann Tim , Wilms Christian , Warnecke Moritz , Seide Gunnar , Gries Thomas
Published: April 2015

Carbon fiber is expected to increase its importance as a lightweight substitute material. The significant market potential in the automotive industry is strongly dependent on carbon fiber cost. A decrease of about 50% from the present cost level of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based carbon fibers is needed. This ambitious target is only achievable with high-cost transparency in the production chain. This paper reviews published cost models and identifies the need for a consistent methodology and transparency over input parameters. A new cost model with a modular structure covering all process steps by cost type and disclosing all process parameter assumptions is introduced. The most cost-intense steps are polymerization, including raw material (25%), carbonization (22%) and fiber washing after coagulation (19%). Most important cost types are energy (34%), raw material (19%) and capital costs for equipment (18%). The high-cost share of 54% for carbon fiber PAN precursor is consistent with most reviewed models.
Satyam Failure and Changes in Indian Audit Committees
Authors: Narayanaswamy R. , Raghunandan K. , Rama Dasaratha V.
Published: April 2015

Audit committees have received considerable attention globally in recent years. We examine the effects of the Satyam failure on changes in the composition and functioning of Indian audit committees. A corporate collapse that shook India’s markets and regulators, and widely noted of as “India’s Enron,” should have led to major improvements in the functioning of audit committees of Indian companies. Our empirical results show that the Satyam failure had a limited effect on Indian audit committees. We discuss implications for Indian audit committees as India seeks to harmonize its accounting and governance standards with international benchmarks.
Establishing psychosocial palliative care standards for children and adolescents with cancer and their families: An integrative review
Authors: Weaver Meaghann S , Heinze Katherine E , Bell Cynthia J , Wiener Lori , Garee Amy M , Kelly Katherine P , Casey Robert L , Watson Anne , Hinds Pamela S
Published: April 2015

Background:

Despite standardization in disease assessments and curative interventions for childhood cancer, palliative assessments and psychosocial interventions remain diverse and disparate.

Aim:

Identify current approaches to palliative care in the pediatric oncology setting to inform development of comprehensive psychosocial palliative care standards for pediatric and adolescent patients with cancer and their families. Analyze barriers to implementation and enabling factors.

Design:

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines framed the search strategy and reporting. Data analysis followed integrative review methodology.

Data sources:

Four databases were searched in May 2014 with date restrictions from 2000 to 2014: PubMed, Cochrane, PsycINFO, and Scopus. A total of 182 studies were included for synthesis. Types of studies included randomized and non-randomized trials with or without comparison groups, qualitative research, prior reviews, expert opinion, and consensus report.

Results:

Integration of patient, parent, and clinician perspectives on end-of-life needs as gathered from primary manuscripts (using NVivo coding for first-order constructs) revealed mutual themes across stakeholders: holding to hope, communicating honestly, striving for relief from symptom burden, and caring for one another. Integration of themes from primary author palliative care outcome reports (second-order constructs) revealed the following shared priorities in cancer settings: care access; cost analysis; social support to include primary caregiver support, sibling care, bereavement outreach; symptom assessment and interventions to include both physical and psychological symptoms; communication approaches to include decision-making; and overall care quality.

Conclusion:

The study team coordinated landmark psychosocial palliative care papers into an informed conceptual model (third-order construct) for approaching pediatric palliative care and psychosocial support in oncology settings.
The Financialized Household and the Consumer Price Index
Authors: Bundey Freya
Published: April 2015

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the standard measure of household inflation; however its calculations exclude critical areas of household expenditure. This paper is concerned with, first, how the meaning of the CPI has changed in recent decades given the ever increasing financialization of household expenditure, and second, identifying the factors that preclude the CPI from accounting for this shift and leaving it anachronistic in an era characterized by financial risks.
Fraction Interventions for Students Struggling to Learn Mathematics
Authors: Shin Mikyung , Bryant Diane Pedrotty
Published: April 2015

This study synthesized intervention studies focusing on instruction to improve fraction skills. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria: being published in English-language peer-reviewed journals or dissertations between 1975 and 2014, and targeting 3rd- through 12th-grade students struggling to learn mathematics. From the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, addition and subtraction of fractions were most frequently representing the Standards for Mathematical Content, and modeling for mathematics instruction was most frequently observed to represent the Standards for Mathematical Practice. Results indicated that interventions consisting of evidence-based instructional components (e.g., concrete and visual representations; explicit, systematic instruction; range and sequence of examples; heuristic strategies; and use of real-world problems) led to improved performance on measures with fraction concepts and skills. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults With Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Patel Jignesh K. , Schoenfeld Elinor , Parnia Sam , Singer Adam J. , Edelman Norman
Published: April 2015

Cardiac arrest (CA) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the use of conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), rates of return of spontaneous circulation and survival with minimal neurologic impairment remain low. Utilization of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for CA in adults is steadily increasing. Propensity-matched cohort studies have reported outcomes associated with ECMO use to be superior to that of conventional CPR alone in in-hospital patients with CA. In this review, we discuss the mechanism, indications, complications, and evidence for ECMO in CA in adults.
Reinvesting in the Lives of Youth
Authors: Schweitzer Myrinda , Labrecque Ryan M. , Smith Paula
Published: April 2015

Justice reinvestment strategies have been proposed to allow financial resources originally allocated for imprisonment to be reinvested into community-based alternatives. According to this perspective, the government has the responsibility to fund strategies that reduce crime, and previous studies have questioned the effectiveness of prison as one solution. Furthermore, empirical support for community-based alternatives underscores the importance of delivering interventions in offenders’ natural environments. This study explores one state’s attempt to fund strategies that reduce crime and delinquency. Through the Targeted Reasoned and Equitable Community and Local Alternatives to the Incarceration of Minors (RECLAIM) initiative, the State of Ohio attempted to reduce the risk of recidivism by serving more youth locally, instead of in secure facilities in the six most populous counties throughout the state. Specifically, the findings suggest that the Targeted RECLAIM initiative was successful in reducing the risk of recidivism of participating youth.
Human Rights as Metaphor for Political Community beyond the Nation State
Authors: Gregg Benjamin
Published: April 2015

One generally enjoys rights, if at all, then only as a member of a particular political community. The nation state’s territorial sovereignty precludes the possibility of human rights. I propose a ‘human rights state’ whose members seek the corresponding nation state’s embrace of human rights. It functions as a metaphor with ‘deontic power’, with each member carrying these deontic powers in a ‘human rights backpack’. Metaphorical thinking is more plausible than theology or metaphysics on the approach I adopt: social construction. Accordingly, all norms are human inventions and at best emerge through ongoing self-reflective politics: rejected or embraced on the basis of critical examination and justification. Creating justice begins with an act of imagination, envisioning better alternatives, and resisting taking for granted many aspects of the communities we are born into. Metaphorical thinking facilitates creating justice in this sense: limiting the sovereignty of the nation state to the extent necessary to allow for human rights.
A modified differential quadrature procedure for numerical solution of moving load problem
Authors: Eftekhari SA
Published: April 2015

The differential quadrature method is a powerful numerical method for the solution of partial differential equations that arise in various fields of engineering, mathematics, and physics. It is easy to use and also straightforward to implement. However, similar to the conventional point discretization methods like the collocation and finite difference methods, the differential quadrature method has some difficulty in solving differential equations involving singular functions like the Dirac-delta function. This is due to complexities introduced by the singular functions to the discretization process of the problem region. To overcome this difficulty, this paper presents a combined differential quadrature–integral quadrature procedure in which such singular functions are simply handled. The mixed scheme can be easily applied to the problems in which the location of the singular point coincides with one of the differential quadrature grid points. However, for problems in which such condition is not fulfilled (i.e. for the case of arbitrary arranged grid points), especially for moving load class of problems, the coupled approach may fail to produce accurate solutions. To solve this drawback, we also introduce two simple approximations and show that they can yield accurate results. The reliability and applicability of the proposed method are demonstrated herein through the solution of some illustrative problems, including the moving load problems of Euler–Bernoulli and Timoshenko beams. The results generated by the proposed method are compared with analytical and numerical results available in the literature and excellent agreement is achieved.
Influence of assembly error and bearing elasticity on the dynamics of spur gear pair
Authors: Wang Jianhong , Wang Jian , Lim Teik C
Published: April 2015

The elasticity and geometrical errors of precision elements are one of the major factors affecting vibration responses in geared transmission systems. In this study, the influences of assembly error and bearing elasticity on the spur gear dynamic behavior are analyzed. A lumped parameter model for spur gear pair is formulated by representing the bearing elasticity with infinitesimal spring elements and tooth stiffness time function as rectangular waveform. The nonuniform tooth contact load is also considered. The severity of assembly error is assumed to be sufficiently small such that no partial loss of tooth contact occurs. A harmonic balance method is applied to the resultant second-order partial differential equation governing the gear pair dynamic behavior. The variations of dynamic transmission error and tooth contact load with respect to mesh frequency for a set of bearing stiffness are analyzed. The influences of bearing stiffness on the dynamic transmission error are also evaluated. The variation of actual cross angle, an indicator on the tooth meshing state, is examined with respect to nominal cross angle and bearing stiffness. The analysis shows that the presence of bearing elasticity and assembly error can degenerate tooth contact significantly, and hence the appropriate specifications of bearing and mesh stiffness are critical at gearbox design stage. The analysis demonstrates that the proposed lumped parameter model can provide detailed contact information like finite element model, but it avoids finite element model’s prohibitive computation burden and can be completed easily and be computed quickly.
Hospital bargaining in the wake of management reforms: Hungary and Slovakia compared
Authors: Kahancová Marta , Szabó Imre Gergely
Published: April 2015

This article analyses the impact of new public management on employment relations in public healthcare in Hungary and Slovakia. We argue that hospital corporatization – a process which changed the ownership structure and management of public hospitals without privatization – created an opportunity for institutional change in collective bargaining. However, the interaction between hospital owners and managements, the state and trade unions accounts for the absence of major institutional change. Instead, corporatization helped maintain bargaining coordination in Slovakia and bargaining fragmentation in Hungary.
Association Between State Assistance on the Topic of Indoor Air Quality and School District-Level Policies That Promote Indoor Air Quality in Schools
Authors: Everett Jones Sherry , Doroski Brenda , Glick Sherry
Published: April 2015

Nationally representative data from the 2012 School Health Policies and Practices Study examined whether state assistance on indoor air quality (IAQ) was associated with district-level policies and practices related to IAQ and integrated pest management (IPM). Districts in states that provided assistance on IAQ were more likely than districts not in such states to (1) have an IAQ management program ( p < .001); (2) require schools to conduct periodic inspections of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system ( p < .05); of the building for cracks, leaks, or past water damage ( p < .01); for mold ( p < .01); for clutter that prevents effective cleaning and maintenance ( p < .05); of the plumbing system ( p < .01); and for condensation in and around school facilities ( p < .001); (3) have an engine idling reduction program ( < .001); (4) have a policy to purchase low-emitting products ( p < .05); and (5) require IPM strategies ( p < .05). Increasing the number of states that provide IAQ-related assistance to school districts and schools may improve school IAQ.
Lack of effects of intramuscular medetomidine on intraocular pressure in clinically normal cats
Authors: Malmasi Abdolali , Selk Ghaffari Masoud
Published: April 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the effects of intramuscular medetomidine on the results of tonometry in healthy cats.

Methods

Sixteen healthy cats were randomly divided into two groups of eight cats. The first group was sedated with intramuscular medetomidine alone (100 µg/kg) and the second group received only saline (0.5 ml/5 kg). Intraocular pressure (IOP) values were measured immediately before (T0) and after the injections at 15 mins (T15) and 25 mins (T25) in both groups.

Results

Sedation with medetomidine did not cause a statistically significant change in the mean IOP values. The pretreatment mean ± SD IOPs in the treatment and control groups were 16.2 ± 3.1 and 15.9 ± 4.0 mmHg, respectively. In the medetomidine group the mean ± SD IOPs at T15 and T25 were 16.1 ± 4.1 ( P = 0.9) and 14.6 ± 2.2 ( P = 0.1).

Conclusions and relevance

Based on this study in healthy cats, medetomidine may be a good choice as a sedative agent in uncooperative cats when IOP measurements are needed. Further investigations in cats with abnormal IOPs are warranted.
Prolonged-release fampridine and walking and balance in MS: randomised controlled MOBILE trial
Authors: Hupperts Raymond , Lycke Jan , Short Christine , Gasperini Claudio , McNeill Manjit , Medori Rossella , Tofil-Kaluza Agata , Hovenden Maria , Mehta Lahar R , Elkins Jacob
Published: April 2015

Background:

Mobility impairment is a common disability in MS and negatively impacts patients’ lives.

Objective:

Evaluate the effect of prolonged-release (PR) fampridine (extended-release dalfampridine in the United States) on self-assessed walking disability, dynamic/static balance and safety in patients with MS.

Methods:

MOBILE was a randomised, double-blind, exploratory, placebo-controlled trial. Patients with progressive/relapsing-remitting MS and Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 4.0–7.0 were treated with PR-fampridine or placebo twice daily for 24 weeks. Efficacy endpoints included change from baseline in the 12-item MS Walking Scale (MSWS-12), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Berg Balance Scale (BBS).

Results:

132 patients were randomised at 24 sites in six countries. PR-fampridine therapy resulted in greater median improvements from baseline in MSWS-12 score, TUG speed and BBS total score versus placebo over 24 weeks. A higher proportion of patients receiving PR-fampridine versus placebo experienced significant improvements at MSWS-12 improvement thresholds ⩾7 ( p = 0.0275), ⩾8 ( p = 0.0153) and ⩾9 points ( p = 0.0088) and TUG speed thresholds ⩾10% ( p = 0.0021) and ⩾15% ( p = 0.0262). PR-fampridine was well tolerated.

Conclusions:

PR-fampridine therapy resulted in early and sustained improvements in broad measures of walking and balance over six months.
Understanding how adolescents and young adults with cancer talk about needs in online and face-to-face support groups
Authors: Thompson Charee M , Crook Brittani , Love Brad , Macpherson Catherine Fiona , Johnson Rebecca
Published: April 2015

We compared adolescent and young adult cancer patient and survivor language between mediated and face-to-face support communities in order to understand how the use of certain words frame conversations about family, friends, health, work, achievement, and leisure. We analyzed transcripts from an online discussion board ( N = 360) and face-to-face support group ( N = 569) for adolescent and young adults using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count, a word-based computerized text analysis software that counts the frequency of words and word stems. There were significant differences between the online and face-to-face support groups in terms of content (e.g. friends, health) and style words (e.g. verb tense, negative emotion, and cognitive process).
Support for asymmetric violence among Arab populations: The clash of cultures, social identity, or counterdominance?
Authors: Sidanius Jim , Kteily Nour , Levin Shana , Pratto Felicia , Obaidi Milan
Published: April 2015

Using a random sample of 383 Muslims and Christians in Lebanon and Syria, we explored the degree of public support for two distinct kinds of asymmetric violence—“fundamentalist violence” and “resistance violence”—against the United States as a function of three explanatory narratives: a clash of cultures narrative, social identity/self-categorization theory, and a counterdominance perspective. Multiple regression analyses showed that the factors most closely associated with support of asymmetric violence among Arab populations was very much dependent upon the type of asymmetric violence. Among both Christians and Muslims, the results showed that perceived incompatibility between Arab and American cultures was the best predictor of support for fundamentalist violence, while perceived American domination of the Arab world was the distinctly strongest predictor of support for resistance violence. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Sustainable professional learning for early childhood educators: Lessons from an Australia-wide mental health promotion initiative
Authors: Askell-Williams Helen , Murray-Harvey Rosalind
Published: April 2015

New policy initiatives, such as those concerned with promoting young children’s positive mental health, highlight the need for good quality professional education in the early childhood education and care sector. However, although a wealth of literature exists from the school sector, little is known about professional education in early childhood education and care settings. This article presents an analysis of early childhood education and care educators’ perspectives about their professional learning during an initiative to promote young children’s mental health in 111 early childhood education and care centres in Australia. Questionnaires and feedback forms were collected from educators on four occasions over 2 years. In addition, programme facilitators rated the quality of implementation of the initiative in each centre. Thematic analysis indicated that the professional education was instrumental in building early childhood education and care educators’ knowledge about children’s social-emotional learning and mental health, increased educators’ self-efficacy for mental health promotion and encouraged a more collegial and collaborative workplace. Hierarchical linear modelling supported the learning gains identified in the qualitative analysis, but showed that the effect sizes for positive change depended on the quality of programme implementation. The findings highlight important synergies between opportunities for professional learning and workplaces that are conducive to transformation and renewal. Recommendations from participants for improvement included the need to ensure the relevance of content to local contexts, more extended learning opportunities, translation of unfamiliar language and more accessible timetabling of professional learning sessions. Issues concerning the need to advocate for, and sustain, professional education in early childhood education and care settings are discussed.