bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Centella asiatica Ethanol Extract in Spatial Working Memory on Adult Male Rats
Authors: Suri Auliyani Andam , Handayani Astri , Ferhad Adibah , Farida Siti , Redjeki Sri
Published: June 2018

Cognitive decline can be started at early adult. It may be prevented with administration of Centella asiatica (CeA). CeA already known has some medicinal values for the brain such as to increase dendritic growth, to improve cognitive function and memory performance in rats after
chronic stress. Objective: This study is aimed to investigate effect CeA ethanol extract on spatial working memory of normal adult male rats. Eighteen normal adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control/aquadest group and two groups treated with different doses (mg/kg)
of CeA: 300 (CeA300) and 600 (CeA600). Ethanol extract of CeA were administrated orally for 28 consecutive days with weekly weight-adjusted dose. Memory performance was tested using Y-Maze before, on 14th days of treatment and after treatment. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test and
continued with Mann-Whitney test. Result: Treatment groups showed a better spatial working memory performance than control group, but there were no significant result between CeA300 and CeA600 groups (p < 0.05). Ethanol extract of CeA prevents spatial working memory decline on normal
male adult Wistar rats. The optimum dosage of CeA might be 300 mg/kg of body weight.
Evaluation of Adherence, Virology and Imunology Response in HIV Patients Treated with a Once Daily Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) and a Free Combination of Antiretroviral
Authors: Mariana N , Lisdawati V , Maemun S , Sucahyo A , Debby P , Yuli  , Yani  , Hilda S , Evi
Published: June 2018

A once daily FDC is a treatment strategy to reduce both the pill burden and the dosing frequency. This study to evaluate the adherence, virology and immunology response in patients treated with a once daily FDC (single pill) and free combination of antiretroviral (more than one pill).
A cross sectional study on adults HIV–infected (aged >18 years old) in Sulianti Saroso Hospital, ARV–naïve patients for 12 months of treatment, receiving the first line ARV bases on Tenovofir and Efavirenz in the form of once daily FDC and a free combination of ARV. Ninety
eight patients (a once daily FDC group consist of 78 patients and a free combination group consist of 20 patients) were recruited during the period of July to October 2017. The proportion of patients with good adherence (≥95%) after 12 months of once daily FDC treatment group was 98,7%,
and a free combination group was 100%. The proportion of patients with an undetectable viral load to a once daily FDC treatment group was 80%, and a free combination group was 85,5%. The viral load and adherence were not significantly different statistically in two groups (Fisher Exact,
p value >0,05) at 12 months of treatment and there was no significant difference in the increase in CD4 cell count at 6 months between those 2 groups at 6 months of treatment (Chi-Square p = 0,723). A once daily FDC treatment strategy and a free combination of ARV have the same benefits
toward adherence, immunology response at 6 months therapy and virology response in HIV patients during 12 months of therapy. Confirmatory studies with similar proportion of patients between the two groups are needed to clarify the benefits of adherence, immunology and virology response.
Factors Associated Sexual Dysfunction in Patients Pelvic Organ Prolapse at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo and Fatmawati Hospital Jakarta in 2016
Authors: Djusad Suskhan , Hakim Surahman , Priyatini Tyas , Moegni Fernandi , Anggraeni Shirley , Farid Imam Ahmadi , Putra Hadrians Kesuma , Lestari Kartika
Published: June 2018

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a bulge or protrusion of pelvic organs and related segments into or through the vagina. Disturbances in sexual function rarely complained, but from the literature it is known that patients with stage 3–4 prolapse associated with difficulty in achieving
an orgasm. This study aims to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with POP and factors associated with sexual dysfunction among them. A cross-sectional design was conducted in Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo and Fatmawati Hospital Jakarta. All patients who met the inclusion criteria
of POP filled out a questionnaire of sexual function index (FSFI-19), then performed univariate analysis of data on the characteristics of the data subject, and bivariate and multivariate analysis to know the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Of the 82 data, the
prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with POP reached 57.3%. While most of the patients had experienced menopause POP also with a prevalence of 76.8%. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients who were menopausal POP by 66.7%. From the results of the bivariate analysis, age,
menopause, obesity and stage of prolapse were a significant risk factor on the incidence of sexual dysfunction in patients with POP. The variables of age, smoking, menopause, obesity and stage of prolapse, p < 0.25 to be included in the multivariate analysis. From the multivariate analysis,
the variables associated with the incidence of sexual dysfunction in patients with POP were age >60 by OR 8 (IK95 2,45–26.12), and obesity (BMI 30 kg/m2) with an OR of 0.30 (CI 95 0.09 to 0.98). Advanced age and obesity are associated with the incidence of sexual dysfunction
in patients with POP.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Condition Medium Enhances Expression of Ephrin-B2 Related to Neovascularization in Burn Wound Tissue
Authors: Angmalisang Elvin Clara , Sukmawati Dewi , Damayanti Lia , Eryani Astheria , Pawitan Jeanne A
Published: June 2018

The transmembrane ligand ephrin-B2 is molecular marker for arterial endothelial cells and early blood vessel formation. Neovascularization is one of the important event that support wound healing. Adiposederived stem cells conditioned medium (ADSC-CM) is known to contain cytokines and
growth factors as regenerative agent. This study aims to investigate the effect of ADSC-CM on ephrin-B2 expression that represent as neovascularization marker in burn wound granulation tissue. Male Sprague dawley rats were randomly divided into control, conditioned medium (CM) and medium complete
(MC) groups. Full-thickness burn wounds were created by placing preheated metal plat on dorsal thorax of the prepared rats. The burn wounds were treated once daily according to their group. Skin wound tissues were collected at day 7, 14, and 21 post wounded for histological analysis. The expression
of ephrin-B2 was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry staining. Neovascularization evaluation was done by calculating the number of newly formed capillaries that expressed Ephrin-B2 in wound granulation tissues. Expression of Ephrin-B2 in burn wound tissue was prominently increased in CM compared
to control and MC groups on day 7, 14 and 21 post wounded. The CM group also showed higher neovascular number in granulation tissue compared to control and MC group on day 7, 14 and 21 (p < 0.05). Our results showed prominent ephrin-B2 expression in burn wound tissue after treated with
ADSC-CM. Topical application of ADSC-CM has shown to promote angiogenesis in full-thickness burn wound in part through the increased of ephrin-B2 expression. Therefore ADSC-CM could act as an alternative strategy to promote burn wound healing.
Learning Curve in Laparoscopic Living Donor Nephrectomy
Authors: Sidabutar K. E , Hamid A. R , Wahyudi I , Mochtar C. A
Published: June 2018

To examine the learning curve of laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy (LLDN) in our institution. A retrospective review was performed for the initial 300 cases of laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital from November 2011 to December 2015. The data was
classified into three groups of 100 procedures. In the initial cases, the procedure was performed by one laparoscopic surgeon. After a series of cases, another laparoscopic surgeon began performing donor nephrectomy, followed by a third laparoscopic surgeon. Each procedure was performed by
two laparoscopic surgeon. We evaluated 300 patients of laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy in our center and compared each group. The mean total operating time showed a significant decline in group 3 compared to group 1 (261.6±49 minutes vs. 239.7±36.4 minutes) (p = 0.001).
The mean time to clip presented a decline in group 2 and 3 (172.5±44.1 minutes vs. 160.3±31.8 minutes vs. 146.4±34.7 minutes) (p < 0.05). The mean first warm ischemia times dropped from 6.3±3.6 minutes to 2.9±1.9 minutes to 2.0±0.6 minutes (p <
0.05). The median estimated intraoperative blood loss fell from 200 cc in group 1 to 100 cc in group 2 and 3 (p < 0.001). High volume of cases and direct mentoring system enhance the learning curve in LLDN procedure which was categorized as a very difficult procedure. The development of
a successful laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy training programme can be achieved without significant detrimental effect to the patient provided the necessary steps are observed.
Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) in Early Pregnancy as Predictors of Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Oktavianda Yoga Dwi , Ramadhan Syahru , Mufida Thalia , Mukminin Ummul , Irwinda Rima
Published: June 2018

Low birth weight is one of the determinants of infant mortality, morbidity, and disability, which can even have an impact on the future. Several studies have suggested that the condition of low birth weight (LBW) infants is influenced by the lack of maternal nutritional status in early
pregnancy. Moreover, the prevalence of malnutrition in Indonesia is still high. Therefore, this study attempted to analyze the relationship of maternal nutritional status in early pregnancy as a predictor of LBW infants. Using a cross-sectional study design, this study involved 62 pregnant
patients aged 20–35 years who had antenatal visits and a term delivery at Puskesmas Kecamatan Cakung. The measurements of body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) in early pregnancy are used to determine the maternal nutritional status. Pregnant women with BMI <18.5
or MUAC <23.5 cm are considered to have less nutritional status. Meanwhile, LBW infants are defined as babies with birth weight <2500 grams. This study proves that the risk of birth of LBW infants is increased in pregnant women with BMI <18.5 (underweight) (OR 5.37) and less MUAC
(OR 20.4).
Preliminary Study: Panel Test of Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) Bahasa Version
Authors: Muliady S , Amir N , Malik K , Kaligis F
Published: June 2018

Cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia may be affected by multi factors, which will also affect their language ability to understand the instrument’s rules. Panel test was held in June until August 2017, comparing ten patients schizophrenia in remission (test group)
with ten controlled psychiatric residents to understand BACS Bahasa version’s rules. Data was presented descriptively. Compared to controlled residents, one participant of test group failed to understand meaning half of words list in verbal memory. Six participants of test group also
failed to understand the letter fluency’s rule by keep mentioning word begin with capital letter as example and five participants in test group also asked what kind of word that they can mention. In Tower of London, two participants in controlled group and four from test group need to
use the props to understand the rules. Two participants from test group also need longer than 20 second for each item in this test. There is evidence that language ability may be affected in schizophrenia group. This evidence may increase difficulty in conducting the next test and simplifying
the rules need to be done especially in Tower of London section.
Validity Test of the Indonesia Version of Revised American Pain Society Outcome Questionnaire (APS-POQ-R) to Evaluate Postoperative Management Quality
Authors: Tantri Aida Rosita , Satoto Darto , Rahendra  , Sukmono Besthadi , Kusumaningati Ratna Widiyanti
Published: June 2018

The Revised American Pain Society Patient Outcome Questionnaire (APS-POQ-R) is the most commonly used instrument to assess the quality of pain management in many countries but the validity and reliability of this instrument has not been verified in Indonesia. This is a descriptive,
cross-sectional psychometric study to test the validity and reliability of Indonesia version of APS-POQ-R instrument to evaluate postoperative pain management quality. The APS-POQ-R was translated into Bahasa Indonesia according to international guidelines. The translation result was tested
in 102 patients who underwent elective surgery at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital from March to April 2017. Coefficient Aiken V formula was used for content validity test while factor analysis and corrected item total correlation were used for construction validity test. Reliability was tested
using internal consistency (Chronbach α). Aiken V formula showed the Indonesian version of APS-POQ-R was valid with score of 0.8–1 (scale V was ≥0.5). Factor analysis generated five main factors out of 18 instrument questions: activity and sleep disturbances, impact of
pain to emotion, side effects, pain management perception, and pain scale. Construction validity test with corrected item total correlation showed all questions has good correlation, which ranged between 0.244–0.799 (correlation ≥0.3). Correlation between each factors of the Indonesian
version of APS-POQ-R ranged 0.319–0.407. Internal consistency test showed the Indonesian version of APS-POQ-R was reliable with score of 0.663 (α > 0.5). The Indonesian version of APS-POQ-R is valid and reliable to measure postoperative pain management quality.
Sibling similarity and relationship quality in Finland
Authors: Tanskanen Antti O , Rotkirch Anna
Published: June 2018

Siblings form the strongest horizontal family tie, which often involves life-long emotional closeness and various forms of support. Similarity is often assumed to strengthen sibling relations, but existing evidence is scarce and mixed. Using data from the Generational Transmissions in Finland surveys collected in 2012, we employ both total and sibling fixed-effect regressions and examine whether sibling similarity is associated with relationship quality in two family generations: an older generation born in 1945–1950, and the generation of their children, born in 1962–1993. We study sibling similarity in gender, age, financial condition and parenthood status and measure relationship quality by contact frequency, emotional closeness and provision of practical help. In both generations, being of the same gender was associated with all relationship measures. Age similarity was also associated with more contacts and increased emotional closeness in the younger generation, and differences in parenthood status with increased provision of practical help in the older generation. In most aspects, however, sibling similarity was not associated with relationship quality. While sibling relations tend be strong in contemporary Finland, this is only partly due to similarity effects.
I Do as I Think: Exploring the Alignment of Principal Cognitions and Behaviors and Its Effects on Teacher Outcomes
Authors: Boies Kathleen , Fiset John
Published: June 2018

Purpose: Decades of research in educational leadership has extolled the importance of principals in both the effective functioning of teachers and the overall performance of schools. The mechanisms explaining what makes principals effective in the eyes of teachers, however, are not well known. This study builds on prior research to posit that principal effectiveness is the result of their own cognitions, which are translated into specific leadership behaviors directed at teachers, which, in turn, serve to foster trust. Research Methods/Approach: Data came from principals and teachers in 33 French and English Canadian elementary schools. All principals took part in a face-to-face interview which elicited their leadership cognitions, while teachers responded to measures of principal leadership behaviors, trust, and effectiveness. Findings: This research provides empirical support for a sequential mediation model whereby principal leadership cognitions were related to teacher evaluations of principal effectiveness through teacher ratings of principal leadership behaviors and teacher trust in their principal. Specifically, we found support for three specific leadership behaviors (supporting, developing, and active management-by-exception). Implications for Research and Practice: The results reveal the importance of a number of distinctive leadership behaviors in fostering a work context where teachers are able to perform effectively. Principals who “walk the talk” tended to be perceived as more trustworthy and effective. Additionally, the results suggest that principals’ professional development could focus on cognitions related to leadership behaviors and effectiveness.
Réflexions sur le paganisme d’extrême droite
Authors: François Stéphane
Published: June 2018

The neo-paganism, in its ethnocentric variant, becomes one of the most important spiritualities of the radical far right. It offers for these activists the possibility to reconnect with an ethnic/cultural identity that the universalism of Christianity has been destroyed. It allows, also, from a more strategic perspective, to develop synergies between groups and individuals scattered throughout the world. These synergies are manifested by an intellectual reciprocation, made of borrowing and re-reading. Theses exchanges are giving to this trend of the extreme right a particular intellectual coloring, which gives it a unique identity.
Electricity services always in the making: Informality and the work of infrastructure maintenance and repair in an African city
Authors: Baptista Idalina
Published: June 2018

Access to ‘formal’ electricity networks remains a key challenge in many African urban areas. Significant attention has been paid to how access to an electricity connection should be provided, with much less attention paid to how electricity infrastructures are operated and maintained. Attention to how utilities govern the challenges inherent to ‘informality’ in the production of ‘formal’ networked infrastructure is less common, especially in African cities. Moreover, with a few notable exceptions, studies on infrastructure maintenance and repair treat ‘informality’ as a subtext to broader examinations of the uneven urban landscapes produced through infrastructure and its mediating technologies. Drawing on a socio-technical approach to electricity infrastructures, this article explores how utilities engage with ‘informality’ to produce access to ‘formal’ electricity networks through everyday processes of maintenance and repair. To this end, the article uses the empirical case of Mozambique’s national electricity company, EDM (Electricidade de Moçambique, E.P.) and its transition to an electricity network mediated by prepayment technologies in the capital city Maputo. The article argues that a socio-technical approach to infrastructures provides key insights into how utilities implicate the spatial and socio-economic dimensions of ‘informality’ in the design, delivery, and maintenance and repair of ‘formal’ electricity networks. Utilities do so through pragmatic, situated practices that sustain and continually produce and reproduce infrastructures in cities. This highlights how infrastructures are always precarious achievements and service delivery is always a process in the making. The article is based on deskwork, archival work, and fieldwork conducted by the author in Maputo since 2013.
Chinese Youth Career Adaptability: Contextual Influences and Pathways to Positive Youth Development
Authors: Chen Zi , Solberg Scott , Ye Ai
Published: June 2018

The present study investigated the mediating role of career adaptability in the relationship between youth-perceived contextual support and positive youth development on the basis of a survey of 1,047 students in 10th to 12th grades. Measurement model analysis revealed that career search self-efficacy (CSSE), goal capacity, academic self-efficacy, and intrinsic motivation all fit within a latent construct representing career adaptability. Subsequently, structural model analysis revealed that career adaptability fully mediates the relationship between contextual factors and positive youth development. In addition, these analyses identified eight specific indirect pathways: CSSE and goal capacity fully mediated the relationship between quality learning experience/social connection and decision-making readiness; CSSE and academic self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between social connection and stress management, and they also acted as suppressor in the relationship between quality learning experiences and stress management. These findings establish notable implications for career counseling and intervention practices that are discussed in closing.
Positive impulsive observer design of fractional-order positive switched systems with mode-dependent average dwell time
Authors: Liu Leipo , Cao Xiangyang , Fu Zhumu , Song Shuzhong , Xing Hao
Published: June 2018

This paper investigates the positive impulsive observer design of fractional-order positive switched systems with mode-dependent average dwell time (MDADT). By using the MDADT approach and the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional technique, sufficient conditions are obtained to ensure the error system is globally exponentially stable. An algorithm is proposed to design the observer gain matrices via linear programming. Finally, two examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Optimal sizing and control of hybrid energy storage system for wind power using hybrid Parallel PSO-GA algorithm
Authors: Pang Ming , Shi Yikai , Wang Wendong , Pang Shun
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a frequency-based method for sizing the hybrid energy storage system in order to smoothen wind power fluctuations. The main goal of the proposed method is to find the power and energy capacities of the hybrid energy storage system that minimizes the total cost per day of all the systems. The energy management strategy used in this paper is designed as a two-level energy distribution scheme: the first level is responsible for setting the output power of hybrid energy storage system, the second level manages the power flow between the battery and supercapacitor. The hybrid parallel particle swarm optimization-genetic algorithm (PSO-GA) optimization algorithm is proposed to solve the control parameters of energy management strategy. In addition, the proposed method uses the piecewise fitting function to describe the lifetime of battery. Obtained results show that the hybrid energy storage system with the proposed energy management strategy is able to offer the best performances for the wind power system in terms of cost and lifetime.
Successfully Managing Diabetes in a Community Setting: Evidence From the YMCA of Greater Richmond Diabetes Control Program
Authors: Mezuk Briana , Thornton William , Sealy-Jefferson Shawnita , Montgomery Joshua , Smith Jana , Lexima Evanise , Mejia Ruiz Maria Jose , Concha Jeannie B.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe how a community-academic partnership developed and implemented a shared goal of evaluating the impact of a large community-based diabetes self-management program on diabetes care and mental health outcomes.

Methods

Data came from the YMCA of Greater Richmond Diabetes Control Program (DCP), a 12-week, group-format self-management program led by lay health coaches. Adults with type 2 diabetes (N = 312) completed baseline assessments of sociodemographic characteristics, diabetes history, and mental health. Four outcomes were assessed pre- and post-DCP on 141 participants who completed the program: hemoglobin A1C (A1C), weight, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire–8), and glucose monitoring. The team worked with a Community Advisory Board throughout the research process.

Results

The DCP had wide geographic reach, including lower-income neighborhoods. The average age of the participants was 53.9 years, 71.4% were female, and 69% were African American. During the DCP, A1C declined from 8.4% to 7.6% (P < .001), but weight was unchanged (229.2 vs 227.9, P < .282). During the DCP, the proportion of participants with clinically significant depressive symptoms declined from 32.4% to 15.5% (P < .001), and frequency of glucose monitoring significantly increased.

Conclusions

The YMCA of Greater Richmond DCP has wide reach into underserved populations throughout the metropolitan area. This program is effective at improving diabetes self-management and mental health. Findings have implications for supporting academic-community partnerships to address diabetes disparities.
Incapacitated Involvement: Incarceration and Fatherhood in Fragile Families at Age 9
Authors: Washington Heather M. , Juan Shao-Chiu , Haskins Anna R.
Published: June 2018

We use data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study to expand knowledge about the impact of paternal incarceration on fathering in three specific ways: (a) we explore fathers’ involvement with children in middle childhood, (b) we examine the extent to which we observe similar reports of father involvement across mothers and fathers, and (c) we assess how paternal incarceration influences children’s own assessments of their relationships with their fathers. Results from propensity score models indicate that paternal incarceration is associated with decreased father involvement for children in middle childhood. Paternal incarceration has adverse effects on both mother and father reports of father involvement but the magnitude of the effect depends on which parent-report is considered. Interestingly, children’s assessments of their relationships with their fathers are relatively unaffected by fathers’ incarceration. Implications for research and policy regarding incarcerees’ families and children are discussed.
Instrumental Social Support Exchanges in African American Extended Families
Authors: Cross Christina J. , Nguyen Ann W. , Chatters Linda M. , Taylor Robert Joseph
Published: June 2018

This study uses data from the National Survey of American Life Re-Interview to examine the types and frequency of instrumental support that African Americans exchange with extended family members as well as the demographic and family correlates of these exchanges. Four types of instrumental support are examined: transportation assistance, help with chores, financial assistance, and help during illness. Findings indicate that respondents most frequently gave support to and received support from family members during illness episodes, followed by financial support, help with chores, and transportation assistance. For each type of support, individuals indicated that they provided more assistance than they received. These support exchanges are patterned by subjective family closeness, frequency of family contact, financial and social resources, gender roles, and regional differences. Overall, the findings underscore how features of family relationships and demographic characteristics are associated with the provision and receipt of instrumental family support among African Americans.
Pain in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors: Prevalence, Predictors, and Quality‐of‐Life Impact
Authors: Cramer John D. , Johnson Jonas T. , Nilsen Marci L.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Pain is common among patients with cancer, stemming from both malignancy and side effects of treatment. The extent to which pain persists after treatment has received little attention. We examined the prevalence, predictors, and impact on quality of life (QOL) caused by pain among survivors of head and neck cancer.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary head and neck cancer survivorship clinic.

Subjects and Methods

We identified survivors of head and neck cancer ≥1 year after diagnosis and examined the prevalence and risk factors for development of pain. Pain and QOL were assessed with multiple QOL instruments. Ordinal regression modeling examined predictors of pain in survivors.

Results

We identified 175 patients at a median of 6.6 years after diagnosis. Among survivors, 45.1% reported pain, and 11.5% reported severe pain. Among patients with current pain, 46% reported low overall QOL versus only 12% of those without pain (P <. 001). On multivariable analysis after adjustment for age, sex, and stage of disease, pain was associated with trimodality treatment (odds ratio [OR], 3.55; 95% CI, 1.06‐12.77). Multivariable analysis of QOL issues revealed that pain was associated with major depression (OR, 3.91; 95% CI, 1.68‐9.11), anxiety (OR, 4.22; 95% CI, 2.28‐7.81), poor recreation (OR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.70‐6.48), and low overall QOL (OR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.12‐4.34).

Conclusions

Years after head and neck cancer treatment, pain remains a significant problem and is associated with worse QOL. Future efforts should focus on preventing pain from treatment and comprehensive management.
Super-exploitation of Adivasi Migrant Workers: The Political Economy of Migration from Southern Rajasthan to Gujarat
Authors: Jain Priyanka , Sharma Amrita
Published: June 2018

This article offers a political economy account of labour migration of Adivasi workers from southern Rajasthan to growth centres in Gujarat. It unpacks the structural forces that shape this labour mobility, which erupted only as recently as 30 years back. The article focuses on three industries that are key employers of migrant workers—construction, textile as well as small hotels and restaurants in the Gujarati cities of Ahmedabad and Surat. It presents evidence on labour market segmentation and resulting unequal wage distribution between migrants in this corridor by their social group. This is complemented by an extensive mapping of the informal practices that violate applicable legal provisions found in these industry segments. Through these, the article teases out the mechanisms by which the community undergoes what in Marxian terms are referred to as surplus extraction and super-exploitation. The article finds that Gujarat’s economy utilizes the historically low socio-economic position of Adivasis for capitalist accumulation, such that the community’s poverty and disadvantaged position is reproduced inter-generationally, instead of being interrupted by their employment in the growth centres of the state.

JEL: O15, J61, N35
Real-world effectiveness of clozapine for intellectual disability: Results from a mirror-image and a reverse-mirror-image study
Authors: Rohde Christopher , Hilker Rikke , Siskind Dan , Nielsen Jimmi
Published: June 2018

Background:

Comorbid mental illness is common in patients with intellectual disability. Antipsychotics are widely used for these conditions, but the effect of clozapine remains largely unknown.

Aims:

We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of clozapine on naturalistic outcomes in patients with intellectual disability.

Methods:

By combining the national health registers, we identified all patients in Denmark with intellectual disability initiating clozapine treatment during the period 1996–2012. We used a mirror-image model to test whether initiation of clozapine treatment was associated with reduction in psychiatric admissions and inpatient days, reduction in the number of individuals performing intentional self-harm or overdose, and less frequent use of concomitant psychopharmacological treatment. Similar outcome measures were used in a reverse mirror-image model to investigate the effects of clozapine termination.

Results:

A total of 405 patients with intellectual disability redeemed clozapine. After initiation of clozapine the number of psychiatric admissions were reduced by 0.65 admissions (95% CI: 0.31–1.00) and the inpatient days were reduced by 67.2 days (95% CI: 51.2–83.3), with a similar decrease for patients with intellectual disability without psychiatric comorbidity. Clozapine treatment was not found to reduce the number of individuals with intentional self-harm, incidents of overdose, or the use of concomitant psychotropics. In cases where clozapine treatment was terminated, the number of psychiatric admissions increased by 0.57 admissions (95% CI: 0.01–1.12).

Conclusion:

This nationwide study, which is the largest to date, suggests that treatment with clozapine is associated with a reduction in psychiatric admissions and inpatient days in patients with intellectual disability. Further studies evaluating the effects of clozapine in patients with intellectual disability are warranted.
Estimation of a Preference-Based Summary Score for the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System: The PROMIS®-Preference (PROPr) Scoring System
Authors: Dewitt Barry , Feeny David , Fischhoff Baruch , Cella David , Hays Ron D. , Hess Rachel , Pilkonis Paul A. , Revicki Dennis A. , Roberts Mark S. , Tsevat Joel , Yu Lan , Hanmer Janel
Published: June 2018

Background. Health-related quality of life (HRQL) preference-based scores are used to assess the health of populations and patients and for cost-effectiveness analyses. The National Institutes of Health Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) consists of patient-reported outcome measures developed using item response theory. PROMIS is in need of a direct preference-based scoring system for assigning values to health states. Objective. To produce societal preference-based scores for 7 PROMIS domains: Cognitive Function–Abilities, Depression, Fatigue, Pain Interference, Physical Function, Sleep Disturbance, and Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities. Setting. Online survey of a US nationally representative sample ( n = 983). Methods. Preferences for PROMIS health states were elicited with the standard gamble to obtain both single-attribute scoring functions for each of the 7 PROMIS domains and a multiplicative multiattribute utility (scoring) function. Results. The 7 single-attribute scoring functions were fit using isotonic regression with linear interpolation. The multiplicative multiattribute summary function estimates utilities for PROMIS multiattribute health states on a scale where 0 is the utility of being dead and 1 the utility of “full health.” The lowest possible score is –0.022 (for a state viewed as worse than dead), and the highest possible score is 1. Limitations. The online survey systematically excludes some subgroups, such as the visually impaired and illiterate. Conclusions. A generic societal preference-based scoring system is now available for all studies using these 7 PROMIS health domains.
Students’ Motivation to Participate via Mobile Technology in the Classroom: A Uses and Gratifications Approach
Authors: Florenthal Bela
Published: June 2018

E-learning applications have been rapidly adopted by instructors inside and outside of the classroom. As a result, some researchers have started to assess their usefulness applying uses and gratifications (U&G) theory. This study expands the existing research trend exploring students’ motivation to use a mobile polling application in the classroom. Qualitative data were collected in a marketing research course, and U&G-based categories and themes were identified. An inductive analysis rendered five main motivational categories: (a) knowledge acquisition and learning; (b) expression of self and others; (c) interaction, engagement, and enjoyment; (d) convenience; and (e) annoyance. Five motivational themes emerged for knowledge acquisition and learning category, whereas for expression of self and others, four themes were identified. The other three categories, interaction, engagement, and enjoyment; convenience; and annoyance resulted in three motivational themes per category. A discussion on how the study findings compare to previous student response systems and e-learning research as well as a presentation of testable propositions conclude this article.
Model-based robocentric planning and navigation for dynamic environments
Authors: Lorente María-Teresa , Owen Eduardo , Montano Luis
Published: June 2018

This work addresses a new technique of motion planning and navigation for differential-drive robots in dynamic environments. Static and dynamic objects are represented directly on the control space of the robot, where decisions on the best motion are made. A new model representing the dynamism and the prediction of the future behavior of the environment is defined, the dynamic object velocity space (DOVS). A formal definition of this model is provided, establishing the properties for its characterization. An analysis of its complexity, compared with other methods, is performed. The model contains information about the future behavior of obstacles, mapped on the robot control space. It allows planning of near-time-optimal safe motions within the visibility space horizon, not only for the current sampling period. Navigation strategies are developed based on the identification of situations in the model. The planned strategy is applied and updated for each sampling time, adapting to changes occurring in the scenario. The technique is evaluated in randomly generated simulated scenarios, based on metrics defined using safety and time-to-goal criteria. An evaluation in real-world experiments is also presented.
Enhanced real-time pose estimation for closed-loop robotic manipulation of magnetically actuated capsule endoscopes
Authors: Taddese Addisu Z , Slawinski Piotr R , Pirotta Marco , De Momi Elena , Obstein Keith L , Valdastri Pietro
Published: June 2018

Pose estimation methods for robotically guided magnetic actuation of capsule endoscopes have recently enabled trajectory following and automation of repetitive endoscopic maneuvers. However, these methods face significant challenges in their path to clinical adoption including the presence of regions of magnetic field singularity, where the accuracy of the system degrades, and the need for accurate initialization of the capsule’s pose. In particular, the singularity problem exists for any pose estimation method that utilizes a single source of magnetic field if the method does not rely on the motion of the magnet to obtain multiple measurements from different vantage points. We analyze the workspace of such pose estimation methods with the use of the point-dipole magnetic field model and show that singular regions exist in areas where the capsule is nominally located during magnetic actuation. As the dipole model can approximate most magnetic field sources, the problem discussed herein pertains to a wider set of pose estimation techniques. We then propose a novel hybrid approach employing static and time-varying magnetic field sources and show that this system has no regions of singularity. The proposed system was experimentally validated for accuracy, workspace size, update rate, and performance in regions of magnetic singularity. The system performed as well or better than prior pose estimation methods without requiring accurate initialization and was robust to magnetic singularity. Experimental demonstration of closed-loop control of a tethered magnetic device utilizing the developed pose estimation technique is provided to ascertain its suitability for robotically guided capsule endoscopy. Hence, advances in closed-loop control and intelligent automation of magnetically actuated capsule endoscopes can be further pursued toward clinical realization by employing this pose estimation system.
The Site of Bone Marrow Acquisition Affects the Myeloid to Erythroid Ratio in Apparently Healthy Dogs
Authors: Gal Arnon , Burchell Richard K. , Worth Andrew J. , Lopez-Villallobos Nicolas , Marshall Jonathan C. , MacNeill Amy L.
Published: June 2018

Bone marrow (BM) cytology and histopathology are complementary tools used to investigate hematological diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine if there are site-dependent differences in the diagnostic quality, myeloid to erythroid ratio (MER), and discordant findings in samples from different sites in the same dog. Eighteen apparently healthy dogs were used in the study. The sequence of sample acquisition was randomized according to a Latin square, and samples for BM cytology and histology were collected from both humeri and both ilial crests immediately after death. Board-certified clinical and anatomical pathologists read the cytology and histology, respectively. The data were analyzed using a mixed-effect model. The site of BM acquisition did not affect BM sample quality. The rate of discordant clinical findings between sites was 0.05 (95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.13). In general, by cytology, the MERs were slightly but significantly greater in samples from the ilial crests than from the humeri ( P = .01). The measured MER for histology was nearly twice that for cytology for all sites ( P < .001). In conclusion, there was a low-rate, site-dependent discordance in diagnostic findings in BM samples and differences in MER between the ilial crest and the humerus. A similar study is justified in sick dogs with hematological disease to determine the effect of sampling site on discordant findings between sites.
The influence of film music on moral judgments of movie scenes and felt emotions
Authors: Steffens Jochen
Published: June 2018

Music can modulate perceptions, actions, and judgments in everyday situations. The aim of this study was to investigate a potential influence of music on moral judgments in the context of film reception. In the course of an online experiment, 252 participants were assigned to three different experimental conditions (no, positive, or negative music). Participants were requested to assess actions shown in two 2–3-minute audio-visual film excerpts with regard to their perceived moral rightness and to report induced emotions after watching the film clips. Afterwards, they were asked to complete the MFQ-30 questionnaire measuring the foundations of their moral judgments. Results revealed that in one of four cases (i.e. happiness in film excerpt 1), music had a significant effect on recipients’ emotions and also indirectly influenced their moral judgment. In three of four cases, however, the intended emotion induction through film music did not succeed, and thus a significant indirect influence of music on moral judgment was not found. Furthermore, associations between moral foundations, perceived rightness of action, and induced emotions were observed. Future lab studies are indicated to investigate potential moderating influences of the experimental environment on emotion induction through film music.
Utilisation of the conceive-design-implement-operate framework in a mechanical engineering capstone project
Authors: Yong Ze Siin Melanie , Namasivayam Satesh N , Fouladi Mohammad Hosseini , Mohd Zali Mohammad AZ , Quen Leong C , Hang Mah C
Published: June 2018

The Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate framework was initiated around 20 years ago at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in order to reform engineering education to cope with the latest needs and challenges available in the industry. MIT researchers thought of the set of skills that graduates would need to have upon graduation. Then they developed the framework and syllabus, and then ran it through pilot programmes to monitor and refine its underlying approaches. The framework takes into account students’ ‘Technical Knowledge and Reasoning’, ‘Personal and Professional Skills’, ‘Interpersonal Skills’ and ability to ‘Conceive-Design-Implement and Operate’ engineering system or processes. It is now well established with over 100 universities applying its concepts to enhance engineering education. The framework defines 12 standards, which are implemented to describe the frameworks structure. This framework has been applied to several modules (or courses) within Taylor’s School of Engineering. In particular, the present investigation discusses the application of this framework within the context of a Capstone Project module in the school’s Mechanical Engineering Programme. This module is a yearlong, 3rd year module within a 4-year engineering degree programme where students are tasked to design and build a complex engineering system. This paper discusses how the framework is used to enhance students’ ability to brainstorm and develop suitable and sustainable engineering design solutions for a specified design challenge. The paper will discuss what the students have accomplished in each part of the conceive-design-implement-operate framework stages, as well as how these techniques have enabled them to appropriately design an engineering solution in addition to the rubrics used to assess them in each part of the framework.
Current understanding of photophobia, visual networks and headaches
Authors: Noseda Rodrigo , Copenhagen David , Burstein Rami
Published: June 2018

Objective

To review clinical and pre-clinical evidence supporting the role of visual pathways, from the eye to the cortex, in the development of photophobia in headache disorders.

Background

Photophobia is a poorly understood light-induced phenomenon that emerges in a variety of neurological and ophthalmological conditions. Over the years, multiple mechanisms have been proposed to explain its causes; however, scarce research and lack of systematic assessment of photophobia in patients has made the search for answers quite challenging. In the field of headaches, significant progress has been made recently on how specific visual networks contribute to photophobia features such as light-induced intensification of headache, increased perception of brightness and visual discomfort, which are frequently experienced by migraineurs. Such progress improved our understanding of the phenomenon and points to abnormal processing of light by both cone/rod-mediated image-forming and melanopsin-mediated non-image-forming visual pathways, and the consequential transfer of photic signals to multiple brain regions involved in sensory, autonomic and emotional regulation.

Conclusion

Photophobia phenotype is diverse, and the relative contribution of visual, trigeminal and autonomic systems may depend on the disease it emerges from. In migraine, photophobia could result from photic activation of retina-driven pathways involved in the regulation of homeostasis, making its association with headache more complex than previously thought.
Politics within Complementary Currency Systems: The Case Study of Barter Clubs in Argentina
Authors: Ould Ahmed Pepita
Published: June 2018

This paper analyzes how complementary currency systems encourage reflection on an expanding conventional conception of the political and its forms and spaces. From an Argentine case study, it proposes to glimpse in the rise of barter clubs the rejection of capitalist norms and the construction of new spaces of monetary sovereignty encouraging a new expression of value and use of money. However, it argues that the barter system becomes the place of new social polarizations and inequalities.

JEL Classification: A14, B52, O17
Capitalism in Green Disguise: The Political Economy of Organic Farming in the European Union
Authors: Konstantinidis Charalampos
Published: June 2018

Following the post-1992 Common Agricultural Policy, organic farming has expanded rapidly in the European Union. This growth is often considered evidence of the success of a distinctive model of small-scale family-farm agriculture. However, I show that European organic farms display features (large farm size, low labor intensity, high prevalence of mechanization, and adoption of monocultures) that are characteristic of capitalist rather than peasant farms. These features raise doubts about whether European organic farming exemplifies repeasantization.

JEL Classification: B50, O13, Q18