bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical Thinning in Network-Associated Regions in Cognitively Normal and Below-Normal Range Schizophrenia
Authors: Heinrichs R. Walter , Pinnock Farena , Parlar Melissa , Hawco Colin , Hanford Lindsay , Hall Geoffrey B.
Published: February 2017

This study assessed whether cortical thickness across the brain and regionally in terms of the default mode, salience, and central executive networks differentiates schizophrenia patients and healthy controls with normal range or below-normal range cognitive performance. Cognitive normality was defined using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) composite score (T=50 ± 10) and structural magnetic resonance imaging was used to generate cortical thickness data. Whole brain analysis revealed that cognitively normal range controls (n=39) had greater cortical thickness than both cognitively normal (n=17) and below-normal range (n=49) patients. Cognitively normal controls also demonstrated greater thickness than patients in regions associated with the default mode and salience, but not central executive networks. No differences on any thickness measure were found between cognitively normal range and below-normal range controls (n=24) or between cognitively normal and below-normal range patients. In addition, structural covariance between network regions was high and similar across subgroups. Positive and negative symptom severity did not correlate with thickness values. Cortical thinning across the brain and regionally in relation to the default and salience networks may index shared aspects of the psychotic psychopathology that defines schizophrenia with no relation to cognitive impairment.
FDA Approval Summary: Eribulin for Patients with Unresectable or Metastatic Liposarcoma Who Have Received a Prior Anthracycline-Containing Regimen
Authors: Osgood Christy L. , Chuk Meredith K. , Theoret Marc R. , Huang Lan , He Kun , Her Leah , Keegan Patricia , Pazdur Richard
Published: February 2017

On January 28, 2016, the FDA approved eribulin (Halaven; Eisai Inc.) for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic liposarcoma who have received a prior anthracycline-containing regimen. The approval was based on results from a single, randomized, open-label, active-controlled trial (Trial E7389-G000-309) enrolling 452 patients with advanced, locally recurrent or metastatic liposarcoma or leiomyosarcoma. Patients were randomized to eribulin 1.4 mg/m2 intravenously (i.v.) on days 1 and 8 or dacarbazine 850, 1,000, or 1,200 mg/m2 i.v. on day 1 of a 21-day cycle. There was a significant improvement in overall survival [OS; HR, 0.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.61–0.94; P = 0.0119, stratified log-rank] for the overall population. Estimated median OS was 13.5 months (95% CI, 11.1–16.5) in the eribulin arm and 11.3 months (95% CI, 9.5–12.6) in the dacarbazine arm (HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61–0.94; P = 0.011).There were no differences in PFS for the overall population. The effects of eribulin were limited to patients with liposarcoma (n = 143) based on preplanned, exploratory subgroup analyses of OS (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.35–0.75) and progression-free survival (PFS; 0.52; 95% CI, 0.35–0.78). Response rates in both treatment arms were less than 5% in the overall population and in the liposarcoma subgroup. The safety profile was similar to that previously reported for eribulin. The FDA determined that, based on the data reviewed, the benefit–risk assessment for eribulin is positive for patients with advanced, pretreated liposarcoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(21); 6384–9. ©2017 AACR.
Activated T Lymphocytes are Essential Drivers of Pathological Remodeling in Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Bansal Shyam S. , Ismahil Mohamed Ameen , Goel Mehak , Patel Bindiya , Hamid Tariq , Rokosh Gregg , Prabhu Sumanth D.
Published: February 2017

Background—

Inappropriately sustained inflammation is a hallmark of chronic ischemic heart failure (HF); however, the pathophysiological role of T lymphocytes is unclear.

Methods and Results—

Permanent coronary ligation was performed in adult C57BL/6 mice. When compared with sham-operated mice, mice with HF (8 weeks after ligation) exhibited the following features: (1) significant (
P
<0.05) expansion of circulating CD3
+
CD8
+
cytotoxic and CD3
+
CD4
+
helper (Th) T lymphocytes, together with increased Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T-cell (Treg) CD4
+
subsets; (2) significant expansion of CD8
+
and CD4
+
T cells in failing myocardium, with increased Th1, Th2, Th17, and Treg CD4
+
subsets, marked reduction of the Th1/Th2 ratio, augmentation of the Th17/Treg ratio, and upregulation of Th2 cytokines; and (3) significantly increased Th1, Th2, Th17 cells, and Tregs, in the spleen and mediastinal lymph nodes, with expansion of splenic antigen-experienced effector and memory CD4
+
T cells. Antibody-mediated CD4
+
T-cell depletion in HF mice (starting 4 weeks after ligation) reduced cardiac infiltration of CD4
+
T cells and prevented progressive left ventricular dilatation and hypertrophy, whereas adoptive transfer of splenic CD4
+
T cells (and, to a lesser extent, cardiac CD3
+
T cells) from donor mice with HF induced long-term left ventricular dysfunction, fibrosis, and hypertrophy in naive recipient mice.

Conclusions—

CD4
+
T lymphocytes are globally expanded and activated in chronic ischemic HF, with Th2 (versus Th1) and Th17 (versus Treg) predominance in failing hearts, and with expansion of memory T cells in the spleen. Cardiac and splenic T cells in HF are primed to induce cardiac injury and remodeling, and retain this memory on adoptive transfer.
Computer Vision Models to Categorize Art Collections According to the Visual Content: A New Approach to the Abstract Art of Antoni Tàpies
Authors: Rosado Pilar
Published: February 2017

This study uses computer vision models, which to some extent simulate the initial stages of human visual perception, to help categorize data in large sets of images of artworks by the artist Antoni Tàpies. The images have been analyzed on the basis of their compositional, chromatic and organizational characteristics, without textual notes, so that the analogies found may take us closer to, and help us to understand, the creator’s original values. The system as programmed can assist the specialist by establishing analogies between different artists or periods using the same criteria.
Phlegmariurus lehnertii, a new name for Phlegmariurus lancifolius (Lycopodiaceae)
Authors: TESTO WESTON L.
Published: February 2017

The pantropical lycophyte genus Phlegmariurus Holub (1964: 21) (Lycopodiaceae) comprises approximately 250 species (PPG I, 2016) and despite extensive study, its taxonomy remains poorly understood (Øllgaard 1992, Field & Bostock 2013). In recent years, many species have been transferred to Phlegmariurus from the closely related temperate genus Huperzia Bernhardi (1801: 126) (Øllgaard 2012a,b, Field & Bostock 2013, Arana 2016, Duy et al. 2016, Field et al. 2016) and new species continue to be described from both the New World (Øllgaard 2015, 2016a,b) and Old World tropics (Hsieh et al. 2012, Duy et al. 2016).
Podiatry Ankle Duplex Scan: Readily Learned and Accurate in Diabetes
Authors: Normahani Pasha , Powezka Katarzyna , Aslam Mohammed , Standfield Nigel J. , Jaffer Usman
Published: February 2017

We aimed to train podiatrists to perform a focused duplex ultrasound scan (DUS) of the tibial vessels at the ankle in diabetic patients; podiatry ankle (PodAnk) duplex scan. Thirteen podiatrists underwent an intensive 3-hour long simulation training session. Participants were then assessed performing bilateral PodAnk duplex scans of 3 diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease. Participants were assessed using the duplex ultrasound objective structured assessment of technical skills (DUOSATS) tool and an “Imaging Score”. A total of 156 vessel assessments were performed. All patients had abnormal waveforms with a loss of triphasic flow. Loss of triphasic flow was accurately detected in 145 (92.9%) vessels; the correct waveform was identified in 139 (89.1%) cases. Participants achieved excellent DUOSATS scores (median 24 [interquartile range: 23-25], max attainable score of 26) as well as “Imaging Scores” (8 [8-8], max attainable score of 8) indicating proficiency in technical skills. The mean time taken for each bilateral ankle assessment was 20.4 minutes (standard deviation ±6.7). We have demonstrated that a focused DUS for the purpose of vascular assessment of the diabetic foot is readily learned using intensive simulation training.
Test Validity, Reliability: The Effect of Tests Results on the Black Self-Concept and the Educational Curriculum
Authors: Smith William David
Published: February 2017

.… Opinion is split over whether lower scores by Blacks on traditional ability tests are attributed primarily to genetic heritage or to such environmental factors as discrimination, poor diet, bad living conditions, inferior schools or bias of intelligence tests. It is seriously questioned today whether traditional ability tests may serve as valid measures of Black intelligence. (emphasis mine) R. L. Williams, 1973
Lower Cretaceous source rock evaluation and thermal maturity evolution of the Chagan depression, Inner Mongolia, Northern China
Authors: Zuo Yinhui , Song Rongcai , Li Zongxing , Wang Yixuan , Yang Meihua
Published: February 2017

The Chagan depression has the greatest oil and gas exploration potential in the Yingen-Ejinaqi Basin, Inner Mongolia, northern China. In this paper, source rocks are evaluated and the thermal maturity evolution of typical wells and the primary source rocks is modeled using BasinMod 1D and Basinview software provided by Platte River Associates, Inc. The results show that the Chagan depression developed three sets of source rocks, including the Baiyingebi 1 and 2 Formations and Suhongtu 1 Formation. The Baiyingebi 2 Formation has been the most important source rock in the Chagan depression, dominated by the medium to high maturity source rocks with type II kerogen. This study also reveals that the thermal maturity evolution of source rocks is controlled by the paleogeothermal fields during the Yingen Formation depositional periods when the maximum maturity was reached. The Bayingebi 1 and 2 Formations both experienced the hydrocarbon generation peak and reached the medium to over mature stage. While the Suhongtu 1 Formation has only reached the low to medium mature stage with lower hydrocarbon generation potential. In addition, the source rocks thermal maturity evolution in the West sag is superior to that in the East sag. Therefore, the Bayingebi 2 Formation should be investigated for the oil exploration, and the Wuliji fault nose structural zone and central structural zone will remain the primary targets for the next exploration.
Impact of Humanitarian Experiences on Otolaryngology Trainees: A Follow‐up Study of Travel Grant Recipients
Authors: Jafari Aria , Tringale Kathryn R. , Campbell Bruce H. , Husseman Jacob W. , Cordes Susan R.
Published: February 2017

In this study, we seek (1) to determine the impact of humanitarian experiences on otolaryngology trainee recipients of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation humanitarian travel grant (2001‐2015); (2) to better understand trainee and trip characteristics, as well as motivations and attitudes toward future volunteerism; and (3) and to identify potential barriers to participation. An anonymous 30‐question survey was distributed to 207 individuals, and 52 (25.1%) responded. Respondents viewed the trip as very worthwhile (score = 98 of 100), expressed improved cultural understanding (75.0%), and continued participation in humanitarian activities (75.0%). Competency‐based evaluation results suggest a positive impact on systems‐based practice and professionalism. Respondents commented on the trip’s positive value and shared concerns regarding expense. Despite potential barriers, Foundation‐supported humanitarian trips during training are perceived as worthwhile; they may enhance cultural understanding and interest in future humanitarian efforts; and they may positively affect competency‐based metrics. Based on the potential benefits, continued support and formalization of these experiences should be considered.
A critical insight into practitioners’ lived experience of payment by results in the alcohol and drug treatment sector
Authors: Gosling Helena
Published: February 2017

Since former Chancellor George Osborne described reducing public spending as ‘the great national challenge of our generation’ (Her Majesty’s Treasury, 2010: 12) the UK Government have demonstrated a profound interest in Payment by Results (PbR) as a mechanism to improve service quality, value for money and innovation (Audit Commission, 2012). Although PbR is not a new initiative, it has been rebranded and sold as a vehicle that can steer ongoing strategies for reform, particularly in the field of criminal justice and drug/alcohol treatment (Her Majesty’s Government, 2010; Ministry of Justice 2013). Despite such assertions, the initiative has become synonymous with budget cuts (Community Links, 2015), the privatisation of public services (Policy Exchange, 2013) and controversy. Drawing upon the findings of a focus group with staff who work in a Therapeutic Community, this article highlights the lived experience of practitioners as PbR takes hold of the alcohol and drug treatment sector. The findings suggest that outcome-orientated incentives, such as PbR, hold the potential to transform welfare-orientated sectors into a financial, market-focused milieu.
The economic value and clinical impact of the South Australian Health Library Service 2011–2016
Authors: Harris Lindsay , Peterson Mary
Published: February 2017

This is a case study of how one Australian state’s health department library service is attempting to measure the economic value and clinical impact of its professional services and online resources. The case study describes the context in which performance measurement strategies were devised and gives examples of key performance indicators being applied to evaluate library services in a manner comprehensible to the senior management of the parent organization.
Theorizing the carceral: Political economy, critical geography, and criminology
Authors: Shantz Jeff
Published: February 2017

This review essay examines new works by Hadar Aviram on the political economy of penal policies and Dominique Moran on carceral geographies. It discusses how these works offer significant insights for understanding emerging policies and practices of the prison–industrial complex in conditions of neoliberal capitalism. An assessment of these works, in relation to some pressing real-world issues, suggests that new theorizing around the political economy of criminal justice systems and critical geographies of punitive practices makes important contributions to revitalizing criminological theory in the contemporary context.
Is it acceptable to video-record palliative care consultations for research and training purposes? A qualitative interview study exploring the views of hospice patients, carers and clinical staff
Authors: Pino Marco , Parry Ruth , Feathers Luke , Faull Christina
Published: February 2017

Background:

Research using video recordings can advance understanding of healthcare communication and improve care, but making and using video recordings carries risks.

Aim:

To explore views of hospice patients, carers and clinical staff about whether videoing patient–doctor consultations is acceptable for research and training purposes.

Design:

We used semi-structured group and individual interviews to gather hospice patients, carers and clinical staff views. We used Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis.

Setting/participants:

Interviews were conducted at one English hospice to inform the development of a larger video-based study. We invited patients with capacity to consent and whom the care team judged were neither acutely unwell nor severely distressed (11), carers of current or past patients (5), palliative medicine doctors (7), senior nurses (4) and communication skills educators (5).

Results:

Participants viewed video-based research on communication as valuable because of its potential to improve communication, care and staff training. Video-based research raised concerns including its potential to affect the nature and content of the consultation and threats to confidentiality; however, these were not seen as sufficient grounds for rejecting video-based research. Video-based research was seen as acceptable and useful providing that measures are taken to reduce possible risks across the recruitment, recording and dissemination phases of the research process.

Conclusion:

Video-based research is an acceptable and worthwhile way of investigating communication in palliative medicine. Situated judgements should be made about when it is appropriate to involve individual patients and carers in video-based research on the basis of their level of vulnerability and ability to freely consent.
Effects of [Nphe1, Arg14, Lys15] N/OFQ-NH2 (UFP-101), a potent NOP receptor antagonist, on molecular, cellular and behavioural alterations associated with chronic mild stress
Authors: Vitale Giovanni , Filaferro Monica , Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Ruggieri Valentina , Cifani Carlo , Guerrini Remo , Simonato Michele , Zucchini Silvia
Published: February 2017

The present study investigated the effect of [Nphe1] Arg14, Lys15-N/OFQ-NH2 (UFP-101), a selective NOP receptor antagonist, in chronic mild stress (CMS) in male Wistar rats. NOP receptor antagonists were reported to elicit antidepressant-like effects in rodents. Our aim was to investigate UFP-101 effects on CMS-induced anhedonia and impairment of hippocampal neurogenesis. UFP-101 (10 nmol/rat intracerebroventricularly) did not influence sucrose intake in non-stressed animals, but reinstated basal sucrose consumption in stressed animals from the second week of treatment. UFP-101 also reversed stress effects in forced swimming test and in open field. Fluoxetine (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) produced similar effects. Moreover, we investigated whether UFP-101 could affect CMS-induced impairment in hippocampal cell proliferation and neurogenesis, and in fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) expression. Our data confirm that CMS reduced neural stem cell proliferation and neurogenesis in adult rat hippocampus. Chronic UFP-101 treatment did not affect the reduced proliferation (bromodeoxyuridine-positive cells) observed in stressed animals. However, UFP-101 increased the number of doublecortin-positive cells, restoring neurogenesis. Finally, UFP-101 significantly increased FGF-2 expression, reduced by CMS. These findings support the view that blockade of NOP receptors produces antidepressant-like effects in CMS associated with positive effects on neurogenesis and FGF-2 expression. Therefore, NOP receptors may represent a target for innovative antidepressant drugs.
Institutionalizing alternative economic spaces? An interpretivist perspective on diverse economies
Authors: Krueger Robert , Schulz Christian , Gibbs David C.
Published: February 2017

This article offers an approach that helps geographers and others to carefully and critically reexamine prospects for diverse economies. We propose an interpretative institutionalist perspective is useful for elucidating overlooked opportunities for creating alternative economic visions and practices by revealing the process of ‘meaning making’ undertaken by actors in the process of developing policy responses to various dilemmas. We explore this notion in the context of de-growth or post-growth. De-growth is a way of thinking about the economy in ways that are not growth oriented, or fixated on GDP, but on the redistribution of wealth and living within the Earth’s ecosystems.
Effect of Housing First on Suicidal Behaviour
Authors: Aquin Joshua P. , Roos Leslie E. , Distasio Jino , Katz Laurence Y. , Bourque Jimmy , Bolton James M. , Bolton Shay-Lee , Wong Jacquelyne Y. , Chateau Dan , Somers Julian M. , Enns Murray W. , Hwang Stephen W. , Frankish James C. , Sareen Jitender
Published: February 2017

Objective:

This study attempted to determine if Housing First (HF) decreased suicidal ideation and attempts compared to treatment as usual (TAU) amongst homeless persons with mental disorders, a population with a demonstrably high risk of suicidal behaviour.

Method:

The At Home/Chez Soi project is an unblinded, randomised control trial conducted across 5 Canadian cities (Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, Moncton) from 2009 to 2013. Homeless adults with a diagnosed major mental health disorder were recruited through community agencies and randomised to HF ( n = 1265) and TAU ( n = 990). HF participants were provided with private housing units and received case management support services. TAU participants retained access to existing community supports. Past-month suicidal ideation was measured at baseline and 6, 12, 18, and 21/24 months. A history of suicide attempts was measured at baseline and the 21/24-month follow-up.

Results:

Compared to baseline, there was an overall trend of decreased past-month suicidal ideation (estimate = –.57, SE = .05, P < 0.001), with no effect of treatment group (i.e., HF vs. TAU; estimate = –.04, SE = .06, P = 0.51). Furthermore, there was no effect of treatment status (estimate = –.10, SE = .16, P = 0.52) on prevalence of suicide attempts (HF = 11.9%, TAU = 10.5%) during the 2-year follow-up period.

Conclusion:

This study failed to find evidence that HF is superior to TAU in reducing suicidal ideation and attempts. We suggest that HF interventions consider supplemental psychological treatments that have proven efficacy in reducing suicidal behaviour. It remains to be determined what kind of suicide prevention interventions (if any) are specifically effective in further reducing suicidal risk in a housing-first intervention.
Study on flame retardancy of TGDDM epoxy resin blended with inherent flame-retardant epoxy ether
Authors: Wang Mengjiao , Fang Shijiang , Zhang Heng
Published: February 2017

In this article, inherent flame-retardant epoxy ether, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-[1,1-bis(4-glycidyloxyphenyl)ethyl]-10-phosphaphenanthrene 10-oxide (DPBAEP), with 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide moieties was synthesized via an economical method and was used to improve the flame retardancy of 4,4′-tetradiglycidyl diaminodiphenyl methane (TGDDM). A series of epoxy resins were prepared and cured with 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl sulfone. The glass transition temperatures ( Tg) of resin composites were above 243°C and decreased only slightly after DPBAEP was added. The thermal stabilities under the nitrogen (N2) and air atmosphere were also measured using thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicated that DPBAEP had a high decomposition temperature and affected the thermal degradation and promoted the charring of resins. When only over 5 wt% of DPBAEP was introduced, the thermosets obtained a high limiting oxygen index value of around 33.0%, achieved vertical burning V-0 rating and presented fast-swelling char barriers. In order to better understand the flame-retardant mechanisms, the residual char was investigated by scanning electron microscopy observation and Fourier transform infrared spectra. We inferred that the phosphorus (P) moieties reacted with the resin matrix, which played a significant role in promoting the formation of char with special structure, as well as making it rich and tough enough. This kind of char barrier could protect the underlying resin matrix against oxygen and heat transfer and inhibited volatile combustible from diffusing to the flame. Hence, thanks to the synergistic effect of P–N and the excellent compatibility, DPBAEP could impart excellent flame retardancy to TGDDM epoxy resin.
Finite-time tracking control of hypersonic aircrafts with input saturation
Authors: Sun Jing-Guang , Song Shen-Min , Chen Hai-Tao , Li Xue-Hui
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the related research and analysis are made on the finite-time tracking control of hypersonic aircrafts. Two finite-time anti-saturation integral sliding mode controllers are designed with the consideration of external disturbances, coupling responses, model parameter uncertainties, and input saturation. Firstly, based on the mean value theorem, the control problem with input saturation constraints is transformed into the one without input constraints, which overcomes the assumption of the input boundedness. Secondly, two adaptive finite-time integral sliding mode controllers are designed: the first controller is finite-time stable, while the second controller is practical finite-time stable which utilizes the adaptive algorithms with low-pass filtering properties to ensure the boundedness of adaptive parameters. Finally, the digital simulation is carried out on different types of signals to further verify the validity and robustness of the proposed finite-time anti-saturation controllers.
Thinking Fast Increases Framing Effects in Risky Decision Making
Authors: Guo Lisa , Trueblood Jennifer S. , Diederich Adele
Published: February 2017

Every day, people face snap decisions when time is a limiting factor. In addition, the way a problem is presented can influence people’s choices, which creates what are known as framing effects. In this research, we explored how time pressure interacts with framing effects in risky decision making. Specifically, does time pressure strengthen or weaken framing effects? On one hand, research has suggested that framing effects evolve through the deliberation process, growing larger with time. On the other hand, dual-process theory attributes framing effects to an intuitive, emotional system that responds automatically to stimuli. In our experiments, participants made decisions about gambles framed in terms of either gains or losses, and time pressure was manipulated across blocks. Results showed increased framing effects under time pressure in both hypothetical and incentivized choices, which supports the dual-process hypothesis that these effects arise from a fast, intuitive system.
Collective Action, Envisioning the Future and Women’s Self-help Groups: A Case Study from South India
Authors: Finnis Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

In this article, I discuss women’s perceptions of and experiences with self-help groups and collective action in two agricultural communities in Tamil Nadu, India. Focusing on women’s social and political activities, particularly in terms of the struggle for the approval and construction of a new road, I argue that in these communities, self-help groups offered a conceptual space that encouraged collective actions, and contributed to processes of change in the ways women perceived and experienced their personal power and their social positions within their households and communities. I demonstrate how these groups offered a way for members to add their voices to political struggles and articulate their visions of the future, even as they recognised everyday gender inequities.
Book Review: Sarah Hodges and Mohan Rao (Eds), Public Wealth and Private Wealth: Stem Cells, Surrogates and Other Strategic Bodies
Authors: Roy Bijoya
Published: February 2017

Sarah Hodges and Mohan Rao (Eds), Public Wealth and Private Wealth: Stem Cells, Surrogates and Other Strategic Bodies. New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2016. 283 pages. ₹850, ISBN 13: 978-0-19-946337-4.
The Rayleigh–Ritz method for linear dynamic, static and buckling behavior of beams, shells and plates: A literature review
Authors: Kumar Yajuvindra
Published: February 2017

The Rayleigh–Ritz method is a classical method that has been widely used to investigate dynamic, static and buckling behavior, i.e., the natural frequencies, mode shapes, moments, stresses, critical buckling loads of vibrating structures and to solve boundary value problems. Different developments in the method have taken place from time to time. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on the application of the Rayleigh–Ritz method to analyze vibration, static and buckling characteristics of beams, shells and plates using different theories.
Hai Gui or Hai Dai? Chinese Student Migrants and the Role of Norwegian Mobility Capital in Career Success
Authors: Hu Aihua , Cairns David
Published: February 2017

In this article, we look at an example of student migration between Asia and Europe: movement between China and Norway, with the main objective of illustrating the value of studying in Norway to career development upon return to the sending country. Adapting terminology associated with Bourdieu, we discuss this experience as ‘mobility capital’, exploring the value of skills and capacities acquired while abroad in career success. Evidence is drawn from a recent qualitative study of former student migrants from across China, all of whom had previously studied in Norway at Master’s degree level. Analysis of our material demonstrates the strengths and weaknesses of what we term Norwegian ‘mobility capital’, with discussion of these outcomes organized using two heuristic categories: ‘Hai Gui’, a term that refers to a returnee experiencing career success, and ‘Hai Dai’, which relates to returnees who cannot find a secure job upon return.
Constraints, Incentives and Pockets of Local Order on the Streets of Pelotas, Brazil
Authors: Gadd Katri
Published: February 2017

This article investigates the life experiences of 19 young people on the streets of Pelotas, southern Brazil. Manifold methods were used revealing several highly interconnected aspects in their realities. This study, which was conducted for a period of seven years (2009–2016), illustrates how the studied street youths form their environments physically, socially and mentally in order to reach their goals and create the multiple means of survival in challenging street environment. It is important to understand heterogeneous, interrelated physical, sociocultural and mental elements to study subjectively experienced realities. Personally experienced multidimensional constraints and incentives and the individual’s own goals shape these realities.
The ‘Old Gym’ and the ‘Boys’ Changing Rooms’
Authors: Gerdin Göran
Published: February 2017

This article examines how space and pleasure are discursively interlinked in boys’ performances of gender in school physical education (PE). Although previous research has implicated spaces in the production of gendered identities and unequal power relations, there exists a gap in the current literature focusing on how space also contributes to pleasure in PE. This article draws on an ethnographic account of boys’ PE, and Gregson and Rose’s (2000) concept of ‘performative space’, an extension of Butler’s (1990) notion of performativity, to illustrate how the pre-existing spaces of PE come to matter or become meaningful through the boys’ performances with/in those spaces. I argue that the boys derive pleasures as the productive effect of the power (Foucault, 1985) articulated in and through the spaces of PE. This article accordingly contributes to understandings of the complex nature of how PE is constituted and constitutive of gendered performances, spaces and pleasures.
Measurement invariance of intuitive cancer risk perceptions across diverse populations: The Cognitive Causation and Negative Affect in Risk scales
Authors: Baser Raymond E , Li Yuelin , Brennessel Debra , Kemeny M Margaret , Hay Jennifer L
Published: February 2017

Intuitive cancer risk perceptions may inform strategies to motivate cancer prevention behaviors. This study evaluated factor structure and measurement invariance of two new measures of intuitive cancer risk, the Cognitive Causation and Negative Affect in Risk scales. Single- and multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis models were fit to responses from three diverse samples. The confirmatory factor analysis models fit the data well, with all comparative fit indices (CFI) ≥ 0.94. Items flagged by chi-square difference tests as potentially non-invariant were largely invariant between samples according to practical fit indices (e.g. ΔCFI). These novel scales may be particularly relevant in diverse, underserved populations.
Negotiations between health and social goals over the lifespan: The role of future time perspective
Authors: Li Kin-Kit
Published: February 2017

The interplay between health and social goals in relation to age and future time perspective was examined among 131 older and 131 younger adults via surveys and future time manipulations (limited, unchanged, and expansive). Being older was associated with weaker physical activity intentions and social activity intentions as mediated by a limited future time perspective. Physical activity intentions decreased in the limited condition and increased in the expansive condition, social activity intentions increased in all conditions, and preference toward health (over social) goals decreased in both the limited and expansive conditions. The results suggest that anticipated endings may become salient in all conditions and favor social goals, which are emotionally relevant.
Body image and sexual orientation: The experiences of lesbian and bisexual women
Authors: Smith Marie L , Telford Elina , Tree Jeremy J
Published: February 2017

Western cultures promote a thin and curvaceous ideal body size that most women find difficult to achieve by healthy measures, resulting in poor body image and increased risk for eating pathology. Research focusing on body image in lesbian and bisexual women has yielded inconsistent results. In total, 11 lesbian and bisexual women were interviewed regarding their experiences with body image. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed that these women experienced similar mainstream pressures to conform to a thin body ideal. Furthermore, participants perceived additional pressure to conform to heteronormative standards of beauty since the normalisation of homosexuality and the increase in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender representation in mainstream media.
A general framework for functional regression modelling
Authors: Greven Sonja , Scheipl Fabian
Published: February 2017

Researchers are increasingly interested in regression models for functional data. This article discusses a comprehensive framework for additive (mixed) models for functional responses and/or functional covariates based on the guiding principle of reframing functional regression in terms of corresponding models for scalar data, allowing the adaptation of a large body of existing methods for these novel tasks. The framework encompasses many existing as well as new models. It includes regression for ‘generalized’ functional data, mean regression, quantile regression as well as generalized additive models for location, shape and scale (GAMLSS) for functional data. It admits many flexible linear, smooth or interaction terms of scalar and functional covariates as well as (functional) random effects and allows flexible choices of bases—particularly splines and functional principal components—and corresponding penalties for each term. It covers functional data observed on common (dense) or curve-specific (sparse) grids. Penalized-likelihood-based and gradient-boosting-based inference for these models are implemented in R packages refund and FDboost , respectively. We also discuss identifiability and computational complexity for the functional regression models covered. A running example on a longitudinal multiple sclerosis imaging study serves to illustrate the flexibility and utility of the proposed model class. Reproducible code for this case study is made available online.
Language Ideologies in a U.S. State-Funded International School: The Invisible Linguistic Repertoires of Bilingual Refugee Students
Authors: Solano-Campos Ana
Published: February 2017

In this study, I investigated language ideologies in a state-funded International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme school in the United States. I conducted ethnographic observations, focus groups, and interviews in a fourth grade classroom in one of the largest refugee resettlement areas in the country. Findings indicate that although the school positioned bilingualism as linguistic capital, the linguistic repertoires of multilingual refugee students were made invisible by three inter-related processes: linguistic tokenism, linguistic subordination, and linguistic compartmentalization. These results highlight the urgency for schools offering the IB PYP to implement language policy, curriculum, and instruction that explicitly support immigrant and refugee children’s multiple linguistic backgrounds.
HRD Curriculum Meets Global Human Capital Challenge
Authors: Gaudet Cyndi H. , Brown H. Quincy , Lunsford Dale L.
Published: February 2017

The Problem

Human resource development (HRD) academic programs have grown and evolved over the last 25 plus years in a dynamic, global economy; yet, many HRD academic programs still grapple to define their role and purpose. Without the ability to clearly articulate the potential contributions undergraduate and graduate HRD programs offer the HRD profession, our universities, and global economy, we weaken our capacity to advance the field of HRD. Each year since 1999, The Conference Board, a global research association, has asked CEOs, presidents, and chair people across the globe to identify their most critical challenges. In the CEO Challenge 2015 and 2016 Reports, human capital was ranked as the number one global challenge. As the top challenge, CEOs view human capital in all its forms—from dynamic leadership to a skilled workforce cadre—as the primary fuel that will drive the engines of growth within their organizations. Undergraduate HRD programs are uniquely positioned to academically prepare entry-level professionals with the research-based knowledge, skills, and abilities required to develop the people needed for today’s organizations; yet universities struggle to find appropriate patterns and themes for their curriculum.

The Solution

This article provides a framework, an underlying structure, for undergraduate HRD academic programs mapped to strategies deployed globally by CEOs to meet their number one challenge of human capital—to build sustainable organizations and economies. Implications for developing undergraduate HRD curricula are included.

The Stakeholders

HRD scholars, practitioners, and higher education administrators interested in the academic preparation of entry-level HRD professionals.
Leveraging Three Lessons Learned From Teaching an HRD Undergraduate Diversity and Inclusion Course: An Autoethnography of One Professor’s Perceptions
Authors: Collins Joshua C.
Published: February 2017

The Problem

As a field, human resource development (HRD) is still in the early stages of figuring out the best ways to make the fundamental theories and practices of our discipline more accessible and useful to traditionally aged undergraduate students. Concurrently, the nature of jobs and careers are changing, and on a grand scale, bachelor’s degrees tend to no longer yield the same opportunities they used to. There is a growing expectation that new college graduates will be, among other things, savvy with/toward diversity and social justice, yet we know little about how HRD undergraduate programs function to prepare students to meet this demand.

The Solution

The purpose of this autoethnographic exploration was to detail and reflect upon one professor’s perceptions of the experience of teaching a diversity and inclusion course to HRD undergraduates at a predominantly White institution (PWI). Findings revealed three lessons learned: (a) valuing student expertise; (b) recognizing and counteracting implicit bias, both in the self and students; and (c) challenging student assumptions.

The Stakeholders

All of us would benefit from an enhanced understanding of how undergraduates can contribute to diversity and our understanding of inclusivity in the field of HRD. The stakeholders of this article are HRD faculty, undergraduate students, and department and program administrators, as well as anyone who works in an organization that hires or is considering hiring new graduates into HRD positions.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Inhibitory Effects of Qingzaojiufei Decoction on Tumor Growth in Lewis Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Xie Bin , Xie Xiong , Rao Bin , Liu Shengzhang , Liu Hongning
Published: February 2017

Objective: Qingzaojiufei decoction (QD) is an empirical herbal formula from traditional Chinese medicine that is used for the treatment of lung-related diseases. However, the effect of QD on the growth of lung tumor cells has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the antitumor activity of QD in Lewis lung carcinomas (LLC) in vivo and in vitro, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: The LLC cells were used to assess the antitumor activity of QD by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay in vitro. In vivo, mice were randomly assigned to 5 groups (n = 10/group): the model control (MC) group was intragastrically administered physiological saline (0.9% NaCl) twice daily from day 2 after tumor implantation for 2 weeks. The QD groups were intragastrically administered QD twice daily from 2 weeks before to 2 weeks after tumor implantation for 4 weeks. The mRNA levels were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the proteins expression was determined by immunohistochemistry or western blotting. Results: Compared with the model group, QD showed inhibition of proliferation of LLC cells and reductions in tumor weight and proliferating cell nuclear antigen protein expression. Furthermore, QD up-regulated p53 mRNA expression, and downregulated c-myc and Bcl-2 mRNA expression, while MMP-9, VEGF, and VEGFR protein expression was suppressed. Phosphorylated ERK1/2 levels were also reduced by QD in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that QD inhibited lung tumor growth and proliferation, by activation of tumor suppressor genes, inactivation of oncogenes, suppressing the potential for invasion and metastasis, and attenuating angiogenesis. The ERK/VEGF/MMPs signaling pathways may play an important role in QD-induced inhibition of malignant tumor cell proliferation.
Cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula treated by facial vein direct puncture: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Matsumoto Atsushi , Okauchi Masanobu , Shindo Atsushi , Kawanishi Masahiko , Tamiya Takashi
Published: February 2017

Introduction

In case of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula (CSDAVF), transvenous embolization (TVE) of the cavernous sinus (CS) via the inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) is generally performed. However, various approach routes have been reported when the accessibility of the IPS is challenging. We herein report a case of CSDAVF treated by TVE with direct puncture of the facial vein.

Case report

A 70-year-old woman who suffered from tinnitus, chemosis, diplopia and bruit was referred to our hospital. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) demonstrated CSDAVF. We initially attempted to perform TVE via the IPS route; however, we could not guide a catheter to the CS because of an anatomical difficulty. Then, we performed percutaneous direct puncture of the dilated facial vein, and successfully treated the patient.

Conclusion

When navigating microcatheter to the CS is difficult because of an anatomical difficulty of the IPS, direct puncture of the facial vein is a feasible route.
Leading today’s kindergartens
Authors: Chan Chi Wai
Published: February 2017

Studies on school leadership in Hong Kong have mainly focused on primary and secondary schools, with only a handful of studies looking at leadership in early childhood education. This paper aims to report the findings of a study on strategic leadership in Hong Kong’s kindergartens. It discusses the challenges that Hong Kong kindergarten leaders are facing and the need for practising strategic leadership. It then reports the findings of practices valued by the leaders of Hong Kong kindergartens. The findings of this study reveal, that apart from the abilities to exercise sound planning and management in school, leaders’ reflective, flexible and systems thinking and their willingness in continuous professional and network development are crucial to leading today’s kindergartens. This study also indicates that leaders’ contextual intelligence is important for exercising strategic leadership. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to the investigation of leadership practices in early childhood education, the need to further explore how well kindergarten leaders are practising strategic leadership and the implications for the development of principal preparation programmes.
Sources of knowledge used by Spanish coaches: A study according to competition level, gender and professional experience
Authors: González-Rivera María D , Campos-Izquierdo Antonio , Villalba Ana I , Hall Nathan D
Published: February 2017

This research analyzed sources of knowledge used by Spanish coaches according to competition level, gender, and professional experience. It provides valuable insight regarding the influence of demographic factors on the knowledge acquisition of coaches in a sub-group of the population (Spanish coaches) for which little is known. Participants were 675 coaches of different team and individual sports. Data were collected through the use of a standardized validated questionnaire. Results indicated that coaches in Spain subscribe to informal knowledge acquisition methods more than formal and non-formal ones. The sources of knowledge most used were an exchange of knowledge with other professionals, observation of other coaches, and previous athletic experience. The sources of knowledge least used were reading books or magazines, and conducting research. Additionally, it was found that coach demographics were associated with differences in the priority given to specific sources of knowledge. Consequently, commonly utilized formal knowledge translation approaches may need to be reconsidered.
On modeling player fitness in training for team sports with application to professional rugby
Authors: Revie Matthew , Wilson Kevin J , Holdsworth Rob , Yule Stuart
Published: February 2017

It is increasingly important for professional sports teams to monitor player fitness in order to optimize performance. Models have been put forward linking fitness in training to performance in competition but rely on regular measurements of player fitness. As formal tests for measuring player fitness are typically time-consuming and inconvenient, measurements are taken infrequently. As such, it may be challenging to accurately predict performance in competition as player fitness is unknown. Alternatively, other data, such as how the players are feeling, may be measured more regularly. This data, however, may be biased as players may answer the questions differently and these differences may dominate the data. Linear mixed methods and support vector machines were used to estimate player fitness from available covariates at times when explicit measures of fitness were unavailable. Using data provided by a professional rugby club, a case study was used to illustrate the application and value of these models. Both models performed well with R2 values ranging from 60% to 85%, demonstrating that the models largely captured the biases introduced by individual players.
Evaluating Local News on the Radio
Authors: Wu Lu
Published: February 2017

News radio stations function as major sources of local news and information for their listeners, but radio stations across the United States are facing unprecedented challenges with constant drops in advertising revenue and decreasing numbers of stations devoted to an all-news or talk format. A national survey of news radio station executives from stations in different-sized markets found that stations in smaller markets were likely to broadcast a greater percentage of locally produced content compared to syndicated or outsourced content than stations in larger markets. Ownership structure, such as whether a smaller station was owned independently or by a large media conglomerate, did not appear to have an effect on the levels of local programming.