bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure Perception as a Key Indicator of Risk Perception and Acceptance of Sources of Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Freudenstein Frederik , Wiedemann Peter M. , Brown Tim W. C.
Published: July 2015

The presented survey was conducted in six European countries as an online study. A total of 2454 subjects participated. Two main research questions were investigated: firstly, how does the cognitive, moral, and affective framing of radio frequency electromagnetic field (RF EMF) exposure perception influence RF EMF risk perception? Secondly, can the deployment of mobile phone base stations have greater acceptance with RF EMF exposure reduction? The findings with respect to the first question clearly indicated that the cognitive framed exposure perception is the main determinant of RF EMF risk perception. The concomitant sensitivity to exposure strength offers an opportunity to improve the acceptance of base stations by exposure reduction. A linear regression analysis supported this assumption: in a fictional test situation, exposure reduction improved the acceptance of base stations, operationalized as the requested distance of the base station from one’s own home. Furthermore, subjects with high RF EMF risk perception were most sensitive to exposure reduction. On average, a 70% exposure reduction reduced the requested distance from about 2000 meters to 1000 meters. The consequences for risk communication are discussed.
On Analysis of Fractional Navier-Stokes Equations via Nonsingular Solutions and Approximation
Authors: Doungmo Goufo Emile Franc , Mugisha Stella
Published: July 2015

Until now, all the investigations on fractional or generalized Navier-Stokes equations have been done under some restrictions on the different values that can take the fractional order derivative parameterβ. In this paper, we analyze the existence and stability of nonsingular solutions to fractional Navier-Stokes equations of type (ut+u·∇u+∇p-Re-1(-∇)βu=f  in  Ω×(0,T]) defined below. In the case whereβ=2, we show that the stability of the (quadratic) convergence, when exploiting Newton’s method, can only be ensured when the first guessU0is sufficiently near the solutionU. We provide interesting well-posedness and existence results for the fractional model in two other cases, namely, when1/2<β<1andβ≥1/2+(3/4).
Reliable Adaptive Video Streaming Driven by Perceptual Semantics for Situational Awareness
Authors: Pimentel-Niño M. A. , Saxena Paresh , Vazquez-Castro M. A.
Published: July 2015

A novel cross‐layer optimized video adaptation driven by perceptual semantics is
presented. The design target is streamed live video to enhance situational awareness in challenging communications conditions. Conventional solutions for recreational applications are inadequate and novel quality of experience (QoE) framework is proposed which allows fully controlled adaptation and enables perceptual semantic feedback. The framework relies on temporal/spatial abstraction for video applications serving beyond recreational purposes. An underlying cross‐layer optimization technique takes into account feedback on network congestion (time) and erasures (space) to best distribute available (scarce) bandwidth. Systematic random linear network coding (SRNC) adds reliability while preserving perceptual semantics. Objective metrics of the perceptual features in QoE show homogeneous high performance when using the proposed scheme. Finally, the proposed scheme is in line with content‐aware trends, by complying with information‐centric‐networking philosophy and architecture.
A Key Distribution Scheme for WSN Based on Hash Chains and Deployment Knowledge
Authors: You Lin , Yuan Younan , Yu Wangke , Wang Qiuhua
Published: July 2015

Based on the deployment knowledge and the irreversibility of some hash chains, a novel pairwise key distribution scheme (DKH-KD) for wireless sensor networks is proposed. In DKH-KD scheme, before the nodes in the network are deployed, the offline server constructs a number of hash chains and uses the values from a pair of reverse hash chains to establish their pairwise keys among the nodes in the same region, while, among the neighbor nodes in the different regions, some pairs of the hash chains based on the deployment knowledge are employed to establish the pairwise keys. These procedures make the attackers hard to break the network and ensure that the probability of the pairwise key establishment is close to 1. Compared with the Dai scheme and the q-composite's scheme, our analyses show that DKH-KD scheme can improve the probability of the pairwise key establishment and the invulnerability more efficiently.
Association of Inflammation with Metabolic Syndrome among Low‐Income Rural Kazakh and Uyghur Adults in Far Western China
Authors: Yan Yi-Zhong , Ma Ru-Lin , Ding Yu-Song , Guo Heng , Zhang Jing-Yu , Mu La-Ti , Zhang Mei , Liu Jia-Ming , Rui Dong-Sheng , He Jia , Sun Feng , Wang Kui , Guo Shu-Xia
Published: July 2015

This study focused on low‐income rural and nomadic minority people residing in China’s far west and investigated their relationship between inflammatory markers (IL‐6, hsCRP, FFA, and adiponectin) and MS and ethnic differences. And it found that improving behavioral lifestyle by education or using drugs to control inflammation may prevent MS. These observations may benefit low‐income populations.
Impact of Dabigatran versus Phenprocoumon on ADP Induced Platelet Aggregation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation with or without Concomitant Clopidogrel Therapy (the Dabi-ADP-1 and Dabi-ADP-2 Trials)
Authors: Martischnig Amadea M. , Mehilli Julinda , Pollak Janina , Petzold Tobias , Fiedler Anette K. , Mayer Katharina , Schulz-Schüpke Stefanie , Sibbing Dirk , Massberg Steffen , Kastrati Adnan , Sarafoff Nikolaus
Published: July 2015

Background.A relevant number of patients receive triple therapy with clopidogrel, aspirin, and oral anticoagulation. Clopidogrel’s efficacy on ADP induced platelet function may be influenced by concomitant antithrombotic therapies. Data regarding the effect of dabigatran on platelet function is limited toin vitrostudies and healthy individuals.Methods.The “Dabi-ADP-1” and “Dabi-ADP-2” trials randomized patients with atrial fibrillation to either dabigatran or phenprocoumon for a 2-week period. In Dabi-ADP-1 (n=70) patients with clopidogrel therapy were excluded and in Dabi-ADP-2 (n=46) patients had to be treated concomitantly with clopidogrel. The primary endpoint was ADP-induced platelet aggregation between dabigatran and phenprocoumon at 14 days. Secondary endpoints were ADPtest HS-, TRAP-, and COL-induced platelet aggregation.Results.There was no significant difference regarding the primary endpoint between both groups in either trial (Dabi-ADP-1: Dabigatran: 846 [650–983] AU × min versus phenprocoumon: 839 [666–1039] AU × min,P=0.90and Dabi-ADP-2: 326 [268–462] versus 350 [214–535],P=0.70) or regarding the secondary endpoints, ADPtest HS-, TRAP-, and COL-induced platelet aggregation.Conclusion.Dabigatran as compared to phenprocoumon has no impact on ADP-induced platelet aggregation in atrial fibrillation patients neither with nor without concomitant clopidogrel therapy.
Atrial Fibrillation and Fibrosis: Beyond the Cardiomyocyte Centric View
Authors: Miragoli Michele , Glukhov Alexey V.
Published: July 2015

Atrial fibrillation (AF) associated with fibrosis is characterized by the appearance of interstitial myofibroblasts. These cells are responsible for the uncontrolled deposition of the extracellular matrix, which pathologically separate cardiomyocyte bundles. The enhanced fibrosis is thought to contribute to arrhythmias “indirectly” because a collagenous septum is a passive substrate for propagation, resulting in impulse conduction block and/or zigzag conduction. However, the emerging results demonstrate that myofibroblastsin vitroalso promote arrhythmogenesis due to direct implications upon cardiomyocyte electrophysiology. This electrical interference may be considered beneficial as it resolves any conduction blocks; however, the passive properties of myofibroblasts might cause a delay in impulse propagation, thus promoting AF due to discontinuous slow conduction. Moreover, low-polarized myofibroblasts reduce, via cell-density dependence, the fast driving inward current for cardiac impulse conduction, therefore resulting in arrhythmogenic uniformly slow propagation. Critically, the subsequent reduction in cardiomyocytes resting membrane potentialin vitrosignificantly increases the likelihood of ectopic activity. Myofibroblast densities and the degree of coupling at cellular border zones also impact upon this likelihood. By considering futurein vivostudies, which identify myofibroblasts “per se” as a novel targets for cardiac arrhythmias, this review aims to describe the implications of noncardiomyocyte view in the context of AF.
Resource Management Based on Security Satisfaction Ratio with Fairness-Aware in Two-Way Relay Networks
Authors: Zhao Jun , Lu Zhaoming , Wen Xiangming , Zhang Haijun , He Shenghua , Jing Wenpeng
Published: July 2015

Information security has been received more and more attention for next-generation wireless sensor networks. In this paper, we consider the problem of resource management based on security satisfaction ratio with fairness-aware in two-way relay networks. Multiple source nodes exchange information with the help of relay node in the presence of an eavesdropper, and diverse security requirements are taken into account with coexistence of security users and normal users. The joint problem of power allocation, and subchannel pairing and allocation aims to maximize the security satisfaction ratio for legitimate users subject to limited power and subchannel constraints. We model the security resource management problem as a mixed integer programming problem, which is decomposed into three subproblems, distributed power allocation, distributed subchannel allocation, and distributed subchannel pairing, and then solved it in constraint particle swarm optimization (CPSO), binary CPSO (B_CPSO), and classic Hungarian algorithm (CHA) method, respectively. Moreover, a suboptimal subchannel pairing algorithm is proposed to reduce the computational complexity compared with the CHA. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Identification of Biomarkers Including 18FDG-PET/CT for Early Prediction of Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Humbert Olivier , Riedinger Jean-Marc , Charon-Barra Céline , Berriolo-Riedinger Alina , Desmoulins Isabelle , Lorgis Véronique , Kanoun Salim , Coutant Charles , Fumoleau Pierre , Cochet Alexandre , Brunotte François
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To investigate the value of the metabolic tumor response assessed with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), compared with clinicobiologic markers to predict pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in women with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Experimental Design: Fifty consecutive women with TNBC and an indication for NAC were prospectively included. Different pretreatment clinical, biologic, and pathologic biomarkers, including SBR grade, the Ki-67 proliferation index, androgen receptor expression, EGF receptor (EGFR), and cytokeratin 5/6 staining, were assessed. Tumor glucose metabolism at baseline and its change after the first cycle of NAC (ΔSUVmax) were assessed using FDG-PET.

Results: The pCR rate was 42%. High Ki-67 proliferation index (P = 0.016), negative EGFR status (P = 0.042), and high ΔSUVmax (P = 0.002) were significantly associated with pCR. In multivariate logistic regression, both negative EGFR status (OR, 6.4; P = 0.043) and high ΔSUVmax (OR, 7.1; P = 0.014) were independent predictors of pCR. Using a threshold at −50%, tumor ΔSUVmax predicted pCR with a negative, a positive predictive value, and an accuracy of 79%, 70%, and 75%, respectively. Combining a low ΔSUVmax and positive EGFR status could predict non-pCR with an accuracy of 92%.

Conclusions: It is important to define the chemosensitivity of TNBC to NAC early. Combining EGFR status and the metabolic response assessed with FDG-PET can help the physician to early predict the probability of achieving pCR or not. Given these results, the interest of response-guided tailoring of the chemotherapy might be tested in multicenter trials. Clin Cancer Res; 21(24); 5460–8. ©2015 AACR.
IL10R2 Overexpression Promotes IL22/STAT3 Signaling in Colorectal Carcinogenesis
Authors: Khare Vineeta , Paul Gregor , Movadat Oliver , Frick Adrian , Jambrich Manuela , Krnjic Anita , Marian Brigitte , Wrba Friedrich , Gasche Christoph
Published: July 2015

The mucosal immune response in the setting of intestinal inflammation contributes to colorectal cancer. IL10 signaling has a central role in gut homeostasis and is impaired in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Out of two IL10 receptor subunits, IL10R1 and IL10R2, the latter is shared among the IL10 family of cytokines and activates STAT signaling. STAT3 is oncogenic in colorectal cancer; however, knowledge about IL10 signaling upstream of STAT3 in colorectal cancer is lacking. Here, expression of IL10 signaling genes was examined in matched pairs from normal and tumor tissue from colorectal cancer patients showing overexpression (mRNA, protein) of IL10R2 and STAT3 but not IL10R1. IL10R2 overexpression was related to microsatellite stability. Transient overexpression of IL10R2 in HT29 cells increased proliferation upon ligand activation (IL10 and IL22). IL22, and not IL10, phosphorylated STAT3 along with increased phosphorylation of AKT and ERK. A significantly higher expression of IL22R1 and IL10R2 was also confirmed in a separate cohort of colorectal cancer samples. IL22 expression was elevated in gut mucosa from patients with IBD and colitis-associated cancer, which also exhibited increased expression of IL22R1 but not its coreceptor IL10R2. Overall, these data indicate that overexpression of IL10R2 and STAT3 contributes to colorectal carcinogenesis in microsatellite-stable tumors through IL22/STAT3 signaling. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(11); 1227–35. ©2015 AACR.
Phase I Trial of a Yeast-Based Therapeutic Cancer Vaccine (GI-6301) Targeting the Transcription Factor Brachyury
Authors: Heery Christopher R. , Singh B. Harpreet , Rauckhorst Myrna , Marté Jennifer L. , Donahue Renee N. , Grenga Italia , Rodell Timothy C. , Dahut William , Arlen Philip M. , Madan Ravi A. , Schlom Jeffrey , Gulley James L.
Published: July 2015

The nuclear transcription factor brachyury has previously been shown to be a strong mediator of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human carcinoma cells and a strong negative prognostic factor in several tumor types. Brachyury is overexpressed in a range of human carcinomas as well as in chordoma, a rare tumor for which there is no standard systemic therapy. Preclinical studies have shown that a recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) vaccine encoding brachyury (GI-6301) can activate human T cells in vitro. A phase I dose-escalation (3+3 design) trial enrolled 34 patients at 4 dose levels [3, 3, 16, and 11 patients, respectively, at 4, 16, 40, and 80 yeast units (YU)]. Expansion cohorts were enrolled at 40- and 80-YU dose levels for analysis of immune response and clinical activity. We observed brachyury-specific T-cell immune responses in the majority of evaluable patients despite most having been heavily pretreated. No evidence of autoimmunity or other serious adverse events was observed. Two chordoma patients showed evidence of disease control (one mixed response and one partial response). A patient with colorectal carcinoma, who enrolled on study with a large progressing pelvic mass and rising carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), remains on study for greater than 1 year with stable disease, evidence of decreased tumor density, and decreased serum CEA. This is the first-in-human study to demonstrate the safety and immunogenicity of this therapeutic cancer vaccine and provides the rationale for exploration in phase II studies. A randomized phase II chordoma study is now enrolling patients. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(11); 1248–56. ©2015 AACR.
Induction of C-Mip by IL-17 Plays an Important Role in Adriamycin-Induced Podocyte Damage
Authors: Liu Yanbo , Su Lin , Lin Qiuxia , Han Ying , You Peng , Fan Qingfeng
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims: Although the disturbance of T lymphocyte and glomerular podocyte exerts a crucial function in the pathogenesis of proteinuria, the potential link is still unclear. Methods: The balance of Treg and Th17 cells, and the expression of IL-17/IL-17R and c-mip were investigated in adrimycin-induced nephropathy (AN) mice. The effect and mechanism of IL-17 on podocyte were explored in cultured podocytes. Results: The proportion of Th17 cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the amount of IL-17 in serum and kidney cortical homogenates, and the expression of IL-17R and c-mip in glomerular podocyte were increased obviously in AN mice. In cultured podocytes, recombinant IL-17 led to an induction of apoptosis and cytoskeletal disorganization, an overproduction of c-mip while down-regulation of phosphor-nephrin, and an increased binding of c-mip to NF-κB/RelA. Silence of c-mip prevented podocyte apoptosis and reduction of phosphor-nephrin by prompting nuclear translocation of NF-κB/RelA in IL-17 treated cells. Persistent activation of NF-κB up-regulated pro-survival protein Bcl-2 and decreased podocyte apoptosis, but had no effect on phosphor-nephrin level. Conclusion: These findings demonstrated that induction of IL-17 released by Th17 cells plays a key role in podocytopathy most likely through down-regulation of phosphor-nephrin and Bcl-2 level via overproduction of c-mip.
Métodos baseados em Atlas ou TW3? Estimativa da idade óssea em brasileiros
Authors: Ortega-Pertuz Ana I. , Haiter-Neto Francisco , Costa Andre L. Ferreira
Published: June 2015

Objetivo: Comparar os métodos de Greulich-Pyle (GP), o do Atlas Venezuelano de Maturação Óssea (AV) e o de Tanner-Whitehouse (TW3-RUS), na estimativa da idade em brasileiros. Metodologia: Utilizou- se uma amostra de 240 radiografias carpais de indivíduos de ambos os sexos (129 meninas e 111 meninos), com idades entre 84 e 199 meses (7 e 16,5 anos). As idades ósseas foram calculadas segundo os métodos GP, AV e TW3-RUS e posteriormente se obtiveram diferenças de media entre a idade cronológica (IC) as idades ósseas estimadas. Resultados: Observou-se uma correlação positiva e estatisticamente significativa entre a IC e as idades ósseas estimadas, (0,89- 0,94). Constatou-se uma superestimativa da idade por todos os métodos nas meninas. Nos meninos verificou-se a superestimativa pelo método AV, enquanto que o GP e o TW3-RUS subestimaram a idade. Verificou-se uma diferença significativa entre a IC e as idades ósseas estimadas pelos métodos GP e AV em ambos os sexos (meninas: GP -6,89; AV -6,41. Meninos: GP 4,45; AV-5,06) e para o TW3-RUS somente foi significativa para as meninas (meninas -2,94; meninos 1,56). Conclusões: O método TW3-RUS resultou ser mais preciso na estimativa da idade, porém se recomenda a utilização das equações de regressão calculadas para um melhor ajuste entre as idades inferidas pelos métodos estudados as idades reais dos indivíduos.
Associação entre desordens musculoesqueléticas e gastos com cuidado à saúde entre pacientes do Sistema Único de Saúde
Authors: Codogno Jamile Sanches , Turi Bruna Camilo , Fernandes Rômulo Araújo , Bonfim Mariana Rotta , Pastre Carlos Marcelo , Monteiro Henrique Luiz
Published: June 2015

Delineamento: transversal. Objetivos: (i) Identificar a ocorrência de desordens musculoesqueléticas, (ii) identificar seus determinantes e (iii) suas relações com gastos com saúde em adultos atendidos pelo Sistema Único de Saúde. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 963 adultos, com 50 anos e de ambos os sexos tratados em unidades básicas de saúde. Participantes responderam questionários sobre doenças, condição econômica, desordens musculoesqueléticas, atividade ocupacional, consultas de fisioterapia e compra de medicamentos; peso e estatura foram mensurados para calcular o índice de massa corporal. Custos com saúde foram computados retroagindo 12 meses. Resultados: A prevalência de desordens musculoesqueléticas foi 65%, sendo maior em pacientes com doenças do tecido conjuntivo (OR=4,11 [2,98-5,67]) e pessoas que levantam cargas no trabalho (OR=1,45 [1,27-1,66]). Além disso, a ocorrência de desordens musculoesqueléticas nos ombros, região lombar, joelhos e tornozelos/pés foram relacionados a maiores gastos com medicamentos e consultas médicas. Conclusão: A ocorrência de desordens musculoesqueléticas foi elevada entre estes pacientes, é afetada por sexo e atividade ocupacional e positivamente relacionada com gastos com saúde.
Fatores Associados à força Muscular de Homens Idosos de uma Comunidade Rural Brasileira
Authors: Confortin Susana C. , Barbosa Aline R.
Published: June 2015

Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre indicadores sociodemográficos, variáveis do estilo de vida, condições de saúde e força muscular de homens idosos de uma comunidade rural. Métodos: Estudo transversal, de base domiciliar e populacional realizado em uma cidade do sul do Brasil. Participaram do estudo 207 homens idosos (≥60 anos). A força de preensão manual (FPM) foi mensurada com um dinamômetro e o teste de levantar e sentar verificou a força muscular de membros inferiores (FMMI). Informações sociodemográficas, estilo de vida e condições de saúde foram investigadas. A razão de prevalência foi empregada como medida de associação, por meio da análise de regressão de Poisson (bruta e ajustada). Resultados: A proporção de homens com FPM inadequada foi de 19,0% (IC95%: 13,3-24,8) e a FMMI inadequada foi de 25,3% (IC95%: 18,9-31,7). O avanço da idade, não saber ler e escrever e relatar três ou mais morbidades foram associadas com FPM e FMMI inadequadas. A FMMI inadequada também foi associada à trabalhar na agricultura ao longo da vida, à não trabalhar, à nunca fumar e ao estado cognitivo alterado. Conclusão: Os fatores associados à força muscular são específicos ao teste.
Configuração espacial da Dengue no contexto socioeconômico de Alfenas/MG: Retrato de uma década
Authors: Nascimento Murilo C. do , Rodrigues-Júnior Antonio L. , Rodrigues Denis de O.
Published: June 2015

Introdução: A relação entre dengue e fatores socioeconômicos é objeto de controvérsia e não há registro de estudos em Alfenas-MG que tenham descrito tal interação na escala municipal. Objetivos: Caracterizar e agrupar os setores censitários de Alfenas-MG em níveis socioeconômicos e descrever a distribuição dos casos de dengue pelo território. Métodos: Estudo transversal em que foram utilizadas variáveis demográficas, estatística multivariada e análise de agrupamentos para gerar parâmetros de estratificação socioeconômica. Os casos confirmados de dengue clássico entre os anos de 2001 e 2010 foram geocodificados para estimar a densidade de pontos pela Técnica de Kernel e descrever a distribuição espacial da doença pelos clusters socioeconômicos. Resultados: Foram obtidos quatro clusters que agruparam as unidades censitárias em níveis socioeconômicos, sendo o número 1 considerado como melhor, o número 4 como pior, e os extratos 2 e 3 como níveis intermediários. Os locais de residência dos casos formaram diversos aglomerados, com distribuição aleatória pelo território, de forma indiferente aos níveis socioeconômicos. Ou seja, foi possível visualizar concentrações de casos de dengue tanto nas regiões com melhor perfil socioeconômico quanto nas áreas menos favorecidas quanto ao saneamento ambiental, condições de renda, escolaridade e adensamento populacional. Conclusão: Os resultados apontam que não houve relação alguma entre o padrão de distribuição geográfica da doença com os diferentes agrupamentos socioeconômicos do Município para o período estudado.
American Heart Association Response to the 2015 Institute of Medicine Report on Strategies to Improve Cardiac Arrest Survival
Authors: Neumar Robert W. , Eigel Brian , Callaway Clifton W. , Estes N.A. Mark , Jollis James G. , Kleinman Monica E. , Morrison Laurie J. , Peberdy Mary Ann , Rabinstein Alejandro , Rea Thomas D. , Sendelbach Sue
Published: July 2015

The American Heart Association (AHA) commends the recently released Institute of Medicine (IOM) report,
Strategies to Improve Cardiac Arrest Survival: A Time to Act
(2015). The AHA recognizes the unique opportunity created by the report to meaningfully advance the objectives of improving outcomes for sudden cardiac arrest. For decades, the AHA has focused on the goal of reducing morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease though robust support of basic, translational, clinical, and population research. The AHA also has developed a rigorous process using the best available evidence to develop scientific, advisory, and guideline documents. These core activities of development and dissemination of scientific evidence have served as the foundation for a broad range of advocacy initiatives and programs that serve as a foundation for advancing the AHA and IOM goal of improving cardiac arrest outcomes. In response to the call to action in the IOM report, the AHA is announcing 4 new commitments to increase cardiac arrest survival: (1) The AHA will provide up to $5 million in funding over 5 years to incentivize resuscitation data interoperability; (2) the AHA will actively pursue philanthropic support for local and regional implementation opportunities to increase cardiac arrest survival by improving out-of-hospital and in-hospital systems of care; (3) the AHA will actively pursue philanthropic support to launch an AHA resuscitation research network; and (4) the AHA will cosponsor a National Cardiac Arrest Summit to facilitate the creation of a national cardiac arrest collaborative that will unify the field and identify common goals to improve survival. In addition to the AHA’s historic and ongoing commitment to improving cardiac arrest care and outcomes, these new initiatives are responsive to each of the IOM recommendations and demonstrate the AHA’s leadership in the field. However, successful implementation of the IOM recommendations will require a timely response by all stakeholders identified in the report and a coordinated approach to achieve our common goal of improved cardiac arrest outcomes.
Local Nonprofit Organizations in a Post-Katrina Landscape
Authors: Jenkins Pamela , Lambeth Tara , Mosby Kim , Van Brown Bethany
Published: July 2015

In this study, we examine the role of local New Orleans nonprofit agencies in disaster and how these local nonprofits become a part of the disaster management process. The dominant disaster management framework, and to some degree the social vulnerability approach, affect the design of postdisaster relief programs, projects, and policies. The new Federal Emergency Management Agency framework asks nonprofits to contribute to postdisaster relief, as well as predisaster preparedness. This increased inclusion of local nonprofits in disaster recovery presents specific challenges. The present case study uses multiple sources of data collected over a 10-year period from nonprofit agencies. Primary data collection included interviews, focus groups, and observations of nonprofits; we also collected data from a series of community workshops for nonprofit agencies. We found the nonprofits in New Orleans that reframed their work to fit into the postdisaster context proved to be the most resilient. Their ability to adapt and be reflexive emerged as the most important skills in a postdisaster landscape. However, in the midst of their substantial post-Katrina accomplishments, the future for local nonprofits in disaster depends on their relationship with the federal government and their impact on federal policy.
Prolonged Activity Restriction After Concussion
Authors: DiFazio Marc , Silverberg Noah D. , Kirkwood Michael W. , Bernier Raquel , Iverson Grant L.
Published: July 2015

The current treatment of concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is primarily based on expert consensus. Most clinical practice guidelines advise cognitive and physical rest after injury including withdrawal from normal life activities such as school attendance, sports participation, and technology use until symptoms resolve. Some individuals who sustain an mTBI experience persistent physical, cognitive, and mental health problems. Activity restriction itself may contribute to protracted recovery and other complications. Williamson’s Activity Restriction Model of Depression, formulated more than 20 years ago, is central to this hypothesis. We review research evidence for potential harms of prolonged activity restriction and report an mTBI case as an example of how an “activity restriction cascade” can unfold. According to this model, psychological consequences of removal from validating life activities, combined with physical deconditioning, contribute to the development and persistence of postconcussive symptoms after mTBI in some youth. A modification to mTBI guidelines that emphasizes prompt reengagement in life activities as tolerated is encouraged.
Heads Up
Authors: Wing Robyn , Amanullah Siraj , Jacobs Elizabeth , Clark Melissa A. , Merritt Chris
Published: July 2015

Background. Recent literature advocates for a school academic team, including school nurses, to support concussed students’ return to the classroom. This study aimed to assess the current understanding and practices of a sample of school nurses regarding the concept of “return to learn” in concussed students. Methods. Cross-sectional survey of New England school nurses. Results. The greatest barrier to the school nurses’ functioning within the academic rehabilitation team for students with concussion was “inadequate communication with the provider that diagnosed the concussion” (73%). Of the 151 school nurses surveyed, 19% felt that they did not have the training necessary for this role. Other barriers included “inadequate concussion training” (38%) and “inadequate time necessary to care for a student with concussion” (30%). Conclusions. By identifying specific gaps in knowledge and challenges at the school level, these results inform interdisciplinary medical teams about the importance of educating and facilitating effective “return to learn” academic plans.
Accelerated weathering of wood–polypropylene composite containing carbon fillers
Authors: Turku Irina , Kärki Timo
Published: July 2015

The effect of freeze-thaw weathering on the tensile properties, and accelerated weathering with xenon-arc light on the color stability and the tensile properties of co-extruded wood–polypropylene composite loaded with different carbon fillers, such as carbon black, graphite, expandable graphite, carbon nanotubes, and carbon fibers is studied. The results showed that carbon fillers prevented the composites from the fading during xenon-arc light weathering. Almost all types of composites showed the reduced tensile properties after the weathering so that during xenon-light treatment, the tensile strength decline for 10–22% and modulus for 9–25%; during freeze-thaw cycling reduction was 3–21% for the strength and 4–20% for the modulus. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed deterioration of the polymer surface layer in all xenon-light weathered composites.
Nanoadhesion of Staphylococcus aureus onto Titanium Implant Surfaces
Authors: Aguayo S. , Donos N. , Spratt D. , Bozec L.
Published: July 2015

Adhesion of bacteria to dental implant surfaces is the critical initial step in the process of biofilm colonization; however, the specific nanoadhesive interactions occurring during the first contact between bacterial cells and biomaterial substrates remain poorly understood. In this report, we utilize single-cell force spectroscopy to characterize the dynamics of the initial interaction between living Staphylococcus aureus cells and machined titanium surfaces at the nanoscale. Values for maximum adhesion force were found to increase from 0-s (–0.27 ± 0.30 nN) to 60-s (–9.15 ± 0.78 nN) surface delays, with similar results observed for total adhesion work (7.39 ± 2.38 and 988.06 ± 117.08 aJ, respectively). Single unbinding events observed at higher surface delays were modeled according to the wormlike chain model, obtaining molecular contour-length predictions of 314.06 ± 9.27 nm. Average single-bond rupture forces of −0.95 ± 0.04 nN were observed at increased contact times. Short- and long-range force components of bacterial adhesion were obtained by Poisson analysis of single unbinding event peaks, yielding values of −0.75 ± 0.04 and −0.58 ± 0.15 nN, respectively. Addition of 2-mg/mL chlorhexidine to the buffer solution resulted in the inhibition of specific adhesive events but an increased overall adhesion force and work. These results suggest that initial attachment of S. aureus to smooth titanium is mostly mediated by short-range attractive forces observed at higher surface delays.
Homicide committed by psychiatric patients: Psychiatrists’ liability in Italian law cases
Authors: Terranova Claudio , Rocca Gabriele
Published: July 2015

Interest in psychiatrists’ professional liability in Italy has increased in recent years because of the number of medical malpractice claims. Professional liability for failure to prevent violent behaviour by psychiatric patients is particularly debated. This study describes three Italian cases in which health professionals – physicians and nurses – were found guilty of manslaughter for murders committed by psychiatric patients. Examination of the cases focuses on claims of malpractice, patients’ characteristics, the circumstances of the homicide and the reasons for the court’s judgment. In particular, the predictability of violent behaviour and the concept of causal links are examined in detail. The cases provide an opportunity for a study of comparative jurisprudence. The topics discussed are relevant not only to practicing psychiatrists but also to experts assessing medical liability in cases of criminal acts committed by psychiatric patients.
Decision tree analysis as a supplementary tool to enhance histomorphological differentiation when distinguishing human from non-human cranial bone in both burnt and unburnt states: A feasibility study
Authors: Simmons T , Goodburn B , Singhrao SK
Published: July 2015

This feasibility study was undertaken to describe and record the histological characteristics of burnt and unburnt cranial bone fragments from human and non-human bones. Reference series of fully mineralized, transverse sections of cranial bone, from all variables and specimen states, were prepared by manual cutting and semi-automated grinding and polishing methods. A photomicrograph catalogue reflecting differences in burnt and unburnt bone from human and non-humans was recorded and qualitative analysis was performed using an established classification system based on primary bone characteristics. The histomorphology associated with human and non-human samples was, for the main part, preserved following burning at high temperature. Clearly, fibro-lamellar complex tissue subtypes, such as plexiform or laminar primary bone, were only present in non-human bones. A decision tree analysis based on histological features provided a definitive identification key for distinguishing human from non-human bone, with an accuracy of 100%. The decision tree for samples where burning was unknown was 96% accurate, and multi-step classification to taxon was possible with 100% accuracy. The results of this feasibility study strongly suggest that histology remains a viable alternative technique if fragments of cranial bone require forensic examination in both burnt and unburnt states. The decision tree analysis may provide an additional but vital tool to enhance data interpretation. Further studies are needed to assess variation in histomorphology taking into account other cranial bones, ontogeny, species and burning conditions.
Transverse compression of two high-performance ballistic fibers
Authors: Guo Zherui , Casem Daniel , Hudspeth Matthew , Nie Xu , Sun Jianzhuo , Chen Weinong
Published: July 2015

The method for determining the transverse mechanical response of Kevlar® KM2 and Dyneema® SK76 fibers was improved upon from previous versions of single fiber compression tests. Two fibers were laid parallel and compressed between two tool steel platens. The new experimental setup ensures that the individual fibers are being compressed evenly along the length and that the platens are parallel during compression. Nominal stress–strain curves were obtained for quasi-static loading of both types of fibers. To evaluate the rate effects on the transverse behavior, high-rate transverse compression experiments were also performed using a miniature Kolsky bar loading on single-fiber specimens to obtain the corresponding stress–strain response of these high performance fibers at high rates of deformation.
Thermo-regulated sheath/core submicron fiber with poly(diethylene glycol hexadecyl ether acrylate) as a core
Authors: Zhang Zhili , Zhang Xingxiang , Shi Haifeng , Li Wei , Meng Jieyun
Published: July 2015

Side-chain crystallizable comb-like polymers can be used as polymeric thermal energy-storage materials. Diethylene glycol hexadecyl ether acrylate (C16E2AA) was synthesized with sodium alkoxide using diethylene glycol hexadecyl ether (C16E2) and acryloyl chloride as reactants. C16E2AA was prepared by free radical polymerization to form a comb-like polymeric phase change material, poly(diethylene glycol hexadecyl ether acrylate) (PC16E2AA). A series of sheath/core composite submicron fibers were coaxially electrospun using PC16E2AA as the core and poly(acrylonitrile- co-vinylidene chloride) as the sheath. Results indicate that C16E2AA and PC16E2AA were synthesized in high yield. The average molecular weight and polydispersity index of PC16E2AA were 29,800 g/mol and 3.17, respectively. PC16E2AA melted at 33.8℃ and crystallized at 25.8℃. The melting and crystallization enthalpy for PC16E2AA were 90 and 85 J/g, respectively. PC16E2AA was thermally stable below 326℃. Coaxial submicron fibers with smooth surface and average diameter ranging from 341 to 371 nm were electrospun. The optimum feed rate of the sheath and core components for fabricating thermo-regulated submicron fibers with high enthalpies were 0.125 and 0.375 mL/h, respectively. The fibers can absorb 50 J/g at approximately 37℃ and release 48 J/g of heat at approximately 32℃.
Modeling Caribbean Tourism Demand
Authors: Lorde Troy , Li Gang , Airey David
Published: July 2015

This study uses a gravity framework to model tourism demand for the Caribbean. The basic model is augmented by Linder’s hypothesis—tourist flows are partly determined by the similarity in preferences between the destination and source markets—and climate distance, which measures the gap between climate conditions in origin and destination countries. The results indicate that traditional gravity variables are significant in explaining demand for the region. Habit persistence has the largest impact on demand, a result that holds promise for regional policy makers. Evidence is also unearthed that similarity in preferences between the region and its source markets, as well as climate distance, are important demand determinants.
Training medical providers in evidence-based approaches to suicide prevention
Authors: DeHay Tamara , Ross Sarah , McFaul Mimi
Published: July 2015

Suicide is a significant issue in the United States and worldwide, and its prevention is a public health imperative. Primary care practices are an important setting for suicide prevention, as primary care providers have more frequent contact with patients at risk for suicide than any other type of health-care provider. The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, in partnership with the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, has developed a Suicide Prevention Toolkit and an associated training curriculum. These resources support the education of primary care providers in evidence-based strategies for identifying and treating patients at risk for suicide. The application of this curriculum to post-graduate medical training is presented here.
The Performance Implications of Speed, Regularity, and Duration in Alliance Portfolio Expansion
Authors: Hashai Niron , Kafouros Mario , Buckley Peter J.
Published: July 2015

Extant research on the management of time shows that the speed of undertaking new strategic moves has negative consequences for firm profitability. However, the literature has not distinguished whether this outcome results from the effects of speed on firms’ revenues or from the effects of speed on firms’ costs, or examined how firms can become more profitable by reducing the negative consequences of speed. We address these gaps for a specific strategic move: alliance portfolio expansion. We show that the speed at which firms expand their alliance portfolios increases managerial costs disproportionately relative to revenues, leading to an overall negative effect on firm profitability. However, a more regular rhythm of expansion and a longer duration of existing alliances reduce the negative profitability consequences of expansion speed by moderating the increase in managerial costs. These findings suggest that firms that make strategic moves, such as alliances, may reduce the negative profitability consequences of speed when they maintain a regular expansion rhythm and when their existing strategic engagements require modest managerial resources.
Theorizing media production: the poverty of political economy
Authors: Dwyer Paul
Published: July 2015

This article argues that the Political Economy of Communication (PEC) has generally failed to develop theories of media production. Such theory as exists has been heavily influenced by accounts of mass production and flexible specialization in Hollywood. Hollywood film production has been viewed as paradigmatic of media production in general, in the same way as Ford was for manufacturing, and these theories continue to influence accounts of production across media and cultural industries. The article tests the mass production/flexible specialization paradigm against both the evidence of the Hollywood case and Ford’s mass production system. An alternative paradigm, the theory of craft media production, is also examined. The article then attempts to show how applying organization theory and media economics can provide a more convincing explanation of media production and of the Hollywood case. Finally, the article briefly attempts to show how we might develop rich theoretical explanations of media production by exploring the relationships between economic, organizational and media-specific cultural elements.
The strategic ritual of irony: post-Tiananmen China as seen through the ‘Personalized Journalism’ of elite US correspondents
Authors: Song Yunya , Lee Chin-Chuan
Published: July 2015

Inspired by Tuchman’s concept of the ‘strategic ritual of objectivity’, we argue that journalists employ what can be called the ‘strategic ritual of irony’ in their accounts to convey moral stance toward morally ‘tainted’ stories, often under the façade of objectivity. Systematic reading of American journalists’ memoirs and writings reveals that their portrayals of post-1989 China, against the tragic background of the Tiananmen crackdown, habitually resorted to two genres of irony – situational irony and verbal irony – to express their disdain for an emerging moral vacuum in contemporary China. The injection of irony, in the form of objectivity, distances journalists from the ‘tainted’ targets they cover and hence protects their own professional reputation.
Boosting algorithms with topic modeling for multi-label text categorization: A comparative empirical study
Authors: Al-Salemi Bassam , Ab Aziz Mohd. Juzaiddin , Noah Shahrul Azman
Published: July 2015

Boosting algorithms have received significant attention over the past several years and are considered to be the state-of-the-art classifiers for multi-label classification tasks. The disadvantage of using boosting algorithms for text categorization (TC) is the vast number of features that are generated using the traditional Bag-of-Words (BOW) text representation, which dramatically increases the computational complexity. In this paper, an alternative text representation method using topic modeling for enhancing and accelerating multi-label boosting algorithms is concerned. An extensive empirical experimental comparison of eight multi-label boosting algorithms using topic-based and BOW representation methods was undertaken. For the evaluation, three well-known multi-label TC datasets were used. Furthermore, to justify boosting algorithms performance, three well-known instance-based multi-label algorithms were involved in the evaluation. For completely credible evaluations, all algorithms were evaluated using their native software tools, except for data formats and user settings. The experimental results demonstrated that the topic-based representation significantly accelerated all algorithms and slightly enhanced the classification performance, especially for near-balanced and balanced datasets. For the imbalanced dataset, BOW representation led to the best performance. The MP-Boost algorithm is the most efficient and effective algorithm for imbalanced datasets using BOW representation. For topic-based representation, AdaBoost.MH with meta base learners, Hamming Tree (AdaMH-Tree) and Product (AdaMH-Product) achieved the best performance; however, with respect to the computational time, these algorithms are the slowest overall. Moreover, the results indicated that topic-based representation is more significant for instance-based algorithms; nevertheless, boosting algorithms, such as MP-Boost, AdaMH-Tree and AdaMH-Product, notably exceed their performance.
Outsourcing of information and knowledge services
Authors: Hartshorne Richard
Published: July 2015

As global business models change and new markets develop, there is a greater reliance on information and data to help businesses make decisions. This is reflected in the evolution of the role that information and knowledge professionals have played in business for over a century. This article seeks to provide a supplier’s perspective on how these roles can now be filled by outsourcing service providers. It also provides an overview of the current trends across industries, why companies look to outsource and what they should expect from their outsourcing providers as well as advice on how to make outsourcing a success.
The Effectiveness of the Life Skills Program IPSY for the Prevention of Adolescent Tobacco Use
Authors: Weichold Karina , Tomasik Martin J. , Silbereisen Rainer K. , Spaeth Michael
Published: July 2015

In this study, the effectiveness of a life skills program to impede tobacco use in early adolescence was scrutinized. The focus was on the mediating role of yielding to peer pressure. The universal school-based life skills program IPSY ( Information + Psychosocial Competence = Protection) against adolescent substance use was implemented over 3 years. Over the same time period, it was evaluated based on a longitudinal quasi-experimental design with an intervention and comparison group (4 measurement points; N = 1,657 German students, age 10 at T1). By applying a growth curve modeling approach, we found that participation in IPSY compared with non-participation predicted a slower increase in tobacco use over time, suggesting a significant intervention effect. Moreover, a parallel growth curve model revealed that less yielding to peer pressure induced by IPSY mediated the program effects on tobacco use over time.