bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Improvement and Educational Attainment in Secondary Schools: Complementary or Competing Priorities? Exploratory Analyses From the School Health Research Network in Wales
Authors: Littlecott Hannah J. , Long Sara , Hawkins Jemma , Murphy Simon , Hewitt Gillian , Eccles Gemma , Fletcher Adam , Moore Graham F.
Published: January 2018

Background. Implementing health improvement is often perceived as diverting resource away from schools’ core business, reflecting an assumption of a “zero-sum game” between health and education. There is some evidence that health behaviors may affect young people’s educational outcomes. However, associations between implementation of school health improvement and educational outcomes remains underinvestigated. Methods. The study linked school-level data on free school meal (FSM) entitlement, educational outcomes, and school attendance, obtained from government websites, with data from the School Environment Questionnaire (SEQ) on health improvement activity collected in Wales (2015/2016). Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients and linear regression models tested the extent of association between health improvement activity and attendance and educational outcomes. Results. SEQ data were provided by 100/115 network schools (87%), of whom data on educational performance were obtained from 97. The percentage of pupils entitled to FSM predicted most of the between-school variance in achievement and attendance. Linear regression models demonstrated significant positive associations of all measures of health improvement activity with attainment at Key Stage (KS) 3, apart from mental health education in the curriculum and organizational commitment to health. Student and parent involvement in planning health activities were associated with improved school attendance. There were no significant associations between health improvement and KS4 attainment. Conclusion. Implementing health improvement activity does not have a detrimental effect on schools’ educational performance. There is tentative evidence of the reverse, with better educational outcomes in schools with more extensive health improvement policies and practices. Further research should investigate processes by which this occurs and variations by socioeconomic status.
The promising potential role of intercultural citizenship in preparing mainstream teachers for im/migrant populations
Authors: Sharkey Judy
Published: January 2018

The multilingual reality of migration in the 21st century has presented US schools and teacher education programs with pressing challenges: more and more P-12 educators have become de facto language teachers, asked to make their content and classrooms accessible and meaningful to newcomer students whose home language(s) and culture(s) differ from those in their new schools and communities. These challenges are exacerbated by climates of anti-immigrant rhetoric, xenophobia, and demographic shifts that impede or foreclose interaction between different racial, cultural and linguistic groups. This article addresses a number of questions arising from this situation: What is the role of second language teacher education in the preparation of mainstream teachers serving newcomer students and their families who never imagined themselves as language instructors? How might infusing the principles of intercultural citizenship and immigrant integration policy frameworks expand and enhance current linguistically and culturally focused teacher preparation approaches? This article presents a multi-year study with in-service teachers working in immigrant/refugee communities in a small state in the Northeastern US. Findings indicate some promising potential, yet a stronger, more explicit Intercultural Citizenship approach needs to be articulated and integrated much earlier in the program.
Stories of engagement: Pre-service language teachers negotiate intercultural citizenship in a community-based English language program
Authors: Palpacuer-Lee Christelle , Hutchison Curtis Jessie , Curran Mary E
Published: January 2018

The position statement on global competence by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) emphasizes the need for increased participation ‘in multilingual communities at home and abroad’, and for deeper engagement with languages and cultures (ACTFL, 2014). In response, language teacher preparation programs have sought to increase opportunities for ‘cosmopolitan practice’ (Canagarajah, 2013; Guilherme, 2007). Employing Byram’s (2008) construct of intercultural citizenship, this article explores the potential of service-learning, a sub-set of experiential learning, as such an opportunity. Several studies have established the positive impact of service-learning on teachers’ cultural awareness, yet contact among communities does not necessarily result in engagement (De Leon, 2014; Haddix, 2015). This qualitative study explores the reported experiences of thirty pre-service language teachers and ten linguistically diverse families who participated in an English-focused service-learning project. The analysis outlines how pre-service teachers negotiate intercultural encounters in this program, which we view as a ‘contact zone’ (Pratt, 1991), a zone of possibilities for engagement, leading to action. We discuss the extent to which emerging intercultural citizenship experiences can be transformative (Byram, 2008), and suggest implications for practice.
Longitudinal associations across vocabulary modalities in children with autism and typical development
Authors: Bottema-Beutel Kristen , Woynaroski Tiffany , Louick Rebecca , Stringer Keefe Elizabeth , Watson Linda R , Yoder Paul J
Published: January 2018

We examined differences between children with autism spectrum disorder and typically developing children over an 8-month period in: (a) longitudinal associations between expressive and receptive vocabulary and (b) the extent to which caregiver utterances provided within an “optimal” engagement state mediated the pathway from early expressive to later receptive vocabulary. In total, 59 children (28–53 months at Time 1) comprised the autism spectrum disorder group and 46 children (8–24 months at Time 1) comprised the typically developing group. Groups were matched on initial vocabulary sizes. Results showed that the association between early expressive and later receptive vocabulary was moderated by group. A moderated mediation effect was also found, indicating linguistic input provided within an optimal engagement state only mediated associations for the autism spectrum disorder group.
Differences in participation rates between urban and rural areas are diminishing in Finland
Authors: Tolonen Hanna , Koponen Päivikki , Borodulin Katja , Männistö Satu , Peltonen Markku , Vartiainen Erkki
Published: January 2018

Increasing within-country migration from rural to urban areas is setting new challenges for survey organization. For example, the educational level of population in urban and rural areas differ, resulting in differences in health behaviours and health outcomes between areas. Data from the national cross-sectional surveys of the FINRISK Study conducted in Finland in 1997–2012 among the adult population were used. Women living in the capital region were more likely to be survey non-participants than women living in rural areas. The differences between rural and urban areas have diminished over time among men, but not among women. Even though participation rates between different levels of urbanizations are becoming similar, observed differences in population profiles – that is, educational level – between areas may bias survey results unless results are adequately adjusted.
Ploughing digital landscapes: How Facebook influences the evolution of live video streaming
Authors: Rein Katharina , Venturini Tommaso
Published: January 2018

In this article, we discuss Facebook’s strategy to influence the development of a new communication format known as live video streaming. We take this case study as an example of the ways in which Web platforms operate to harness media innovations and their social uses. The case of Facebook Live illustrates exemplary how, far from developing spontaneously, media landscapes are actively shaped by the technological and financial initiatives of their more influential players. In this article, we describe how Facebook’s technical infrastructure and partnership scheme influence the editorial organisation as well as the storytelling of live video streaming.
The effects of following celebrities’ lives via SNSs on life satisfaction: The palliative function of system justification and the moderating role of materialism
Authors: Seo Mihye , Hyun Ki Deuk
Published: January 2018

Social media increases opportunities to glimpse celebrities’ glamorous lifestyles and to interact with celebrities. This study examines how the use of social networking sites (SNSs) for celebrity-related information and interactions influences users’ life satisfaction. Data analysis demonstrates that celebrity-related SNS activities decrease users’ life satisfaction by increasing relative deprivation through comparison with celebrities. However, the comparison also leads to system justification, serving a palliative function to cope with the potentially negative consequences of such comparisons, which in turn increases life satisfaction. Interestingly, materialism moderates the relationship such that the effects of comparison with celebrities on system justification are observed only among SNS users who hold high materialism values. Also, the direct positive effects of celebrity-related SNS use on life satisfaction are stronger for those with high materialistic values than for those with low materialistic values. The multifaceted functions of celebrity-related SNS activities for life satisfaction are discussed.
Research on visual physiological characteristics via virtual driving platform
Authors: Fan Jieyu , Chen Shengdi , Liang Mingzhang , Wang Fengyuan
Published: January 2018

The transportation system is synthesized by people, vehicles, roads, and environment, and people factor is initiative and plays a key role in the intermediate link between complex environment and vehicles. Virtual driving test is designed to research driver’s dynamic visual characteristics under different road conditions. This article applies faceLAB 5.0 eye tracker, Blue Tiger virtual driving device, and others to record eye movement changes of a driver in different road conditions, collect driver’s eye movement data, and analyze eye movement variation. Also, by comparing, checking, and disciplinary analyzing the measured data in different driving phases, this article conducts an analysis of eye movement changes of a driver while driving. In virtual driving test, drivers have low blinking frequency and long blinking duration in started section. When the section is complicated, drivers have increasing blinking frequency but shorter blinking duration and disperse visual fixation points. In decelerating section, drivers slow down and stop the vehicle. The research results provide the basis for safe driving, when date is more than a variable value, which can determine the driver unsafe driving. The research also has an important and practical role in the research of the driver’s behavior process in multi-source information environment.
Flow loss and structure of circular arc blades with different leading edges
Authors: Bian Tao , Han Qianpeng , Sayar Sanjar , Feng Jun , Böhle Martin
Published: January 2018

Due to much lower cost of development and production, circular arc blades are often applied to axial flow fans. However, compared with NACA 65 profile, circular arc blades have higher losses, which are caused by the formation of separation bubbles or complete separation at the leading edge. Therefore, it is necessary to identify a specific geometry of leading edge, which can reduce the separation bubbles or complete separation. In this article, circular arc blades with different leading edges are examined by numerical method. The numerical investigations were performed with Reynolds numbers of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. All examinations were performed for different incidence angles. The influence of the sidewall on the flow loss and behavior is taken into account. In this article, the influence of leading edge geometry and Reynolds number on the flow losses is shown. The occurrence of flow behavior such as separation bubbles at the leading edge, secondary flow, and corner stall is shown and discussed. The flow structure on the blade and the corresponding sidewall region is illustrated with numerical streamline figures.
A universal algorithm for sensorless collision detection of robot actuator faults
Authors: Chen Saixuan , Luo Minzhou , He Feng
Published: January 2018

When a robot is working properly, it is possible to collide with people or objects entering its working space. This research is different than usual control algorithm. It proposes a universal algorithm for sensorless collision detection of robot actuator faults to enhance the security of the robot. On the basis of the dynamic model, a classical friction model to ensure the accuracy of the whole dynamic model is introduced. This collision detection algorithm can conduct without any external sensors or acceleration and realize the real-time detection just needs to measure the motor current and the location information from the encoder of the robot joint. The value of external torque τext was used to compare with the threshold to detect the collision. After using the proposed collision detection method, the two rotational (2R) planar manipulators can detect the slight collision reliably. The experimental results and performance comparisons show that this sensorless collision detection algorithm is simple and effective. It can be promoted to any other type of robot arm with more degrees of freedom.
The mechanism of emitter clogging analyzed by CFD–DEM simulation and PTV experiment
Authors: Yu Liming , Li Na , Long Jun , Liu Xiaogang , Yang Qiliang
Published: January 2018

Small but complicated labyrinth channel emitters are easily clogged. In this study, computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method coupling approach was employed to investigate the mechanism of emitter clogging caused by particles in size of 65, 100, and 150 µm. Computational fluid dynamics used Navier–Stokes equation to analyze flow characteristics of continuous phase. Discrete element method used Newton’s laws of motion to measure single particle motion and group distribution of disperse phase. Particle tracking velocimetry was also utilized to follow the trajectories and velocity of single particle. Our results indicated that the smaller the particle size, the less the total force. Tiny sands were mainly influenced by drag forces. The amplitude between tooth tips was small. Particles moved basically in the main stream with fast velocity and short travel distance, thereby having good following performance. It took shorter time to reach micro-dynamic balance. Meanwhile, the amount of sediments in the labyrinth channel was less. Particles in size of 150 µm were mainly affected by inertial forces. They can easily enter vortex areas. Sands staying longer than 0.1 s in the labyrinth channel accounted for 37.9% of total number. Sand groups were mainly distributed at the inlet of labyrinth channel. The more sands trapped in vortex areas, the easier it was to precipitate and cause emitter clogging.
A cyclic scheduling approach to maintaining production flow robustness
Authors: Bocewicz Grzegorz , Nielsen Izabela , Banaszak Zbigniew , Majdzik Pawel
Published: January 2018

The organization of flow production, which is typical found in assembly processes, involves a repetitive, fixed-takt time flow of same-size production batches. The cyclic nature of the production flow, which ensures a steady production rhythm, enables just-in-time planning and organization of the associated supply chains. Disruptions in the operation of machinery and equipment, which occur in practice, lead to deviations from nominal operation times. These types of local disturbances lead to changes in production takt time, making it necessary to adjust previously created schedules for delivery/reception of materials and products. Assuming that a control action can be taken to adjust transport operation times within a specified time range, the problem of cyclic scheduling of production flows boils down to seeking conditions the satisfaction of which will guarantee robustness to this kind of disruptions. Satisfaction of robustness conditions allows a return to the nominal production takt time and appropriate adjustment of the production flow trajectory (which makes it possible for the system to return to the previously scheduled delivery times). Numerous examples are included to illustrate the principles of the proposed research methodology aimed at finding solutions for robust scheduling of fixed-takt time production flow.
Chaos phenomenon and stability analysis of RU-RPR parallel mechanism with clearance and friction
Authors: Hou Yulei , Wang Yi , Jing Guoning , Deng Yunjiao , Zeng Daxing , Qiu Xuesong
Published: January 2018

The chaos phenomenon often exists in the dynamics system of the mechanism with clearance and friction, which has obvious effect on the stability of the mechanism, then it is worthy of attention for identifying the relationship between the friction coefficient and the stability of the mechanism. Two rotational degrees of freedom decoupled parallel mechanism RU-RPR is taken as the research object. Considering the clearance existing in the revolute pair, Lankarani–Nikravesh contact force model is used to calculate the normal contact force, and the Coulomb friction force model is used to calculate the tangential contact force. The dynamics model is established using Newton–Euler equations, and the Baumgarte stabilization method is used to keep the stability of the numerical analysis. Then, the equations are solved using the fourth adaptive Runge–Kutta method, and the effect of the revolute pair’s clearance on the dynamic behavior is analyzed. Poincare mapping is plotted, and the bifurcation diagrams are analyzed with varying the friction coefficient corresponding to different values of clearance size. The research contents possess a certain theoretical guidance significance and practical application value on the analysis of the chaotic motion and its stability in the dynamics of the parallel mechanism.
Adhesion state estimation based on improved tire brush model
Authors: Shaoyi Bei , Bo Li , Yanyan Zhu
Published: January 2018

On the basis of calculating the longitudinal force using the original brush model, we simplify the tire structure and consider the lateral force generated by the lateral elasticity of the tread. At the same time, the boundary conditions between the adhesion area and the slip zone in the contact area of the tire are fully discussed. By establishing an improved tire brush model, the error caused by neglecting the sideslip characteristics is avoided, and the adaptability of the tire model is improved. A double nonlinear compensation method based on the lateral acceleration deviation and the yaw rate deviation is employed to estimate the road adhesion coefficient, which is closer to the actual attachment situation than the standard calculation. Based on this model, the vehicle stability coefficient k is defined and calculated to describe the stability of the vehicle during the driving process. The modeling results show that the value of k is always in the stable range of [0, 1]. Therefore, the vehicle that utilizes the improved tire brush model is always within the controllable range in the driving process, which verifies the effectiveness of the model.
Modeling of submarine initial pipe-laying process and its real-time semi-physical virtual reality system
Authors: Xu Xiujun , Wang Liquan , Li Zhen , Yao Shaoming , Fang Xiaoming
Published: January 2018

The mathematical model of the initial pipeline and cable process is created with regard to the ocean current load and wave load; and the mathematical model is solved by the numerical quasi-Newton method to investigate the effects of the current and wave load on the shape and force of the pipeline and cable during the initial pipe-laying process. On this basis, semi-physical simulation system is built to visualize the initial pipe-laying process. The simulation results are compared with OFFPIPE’s results to verify the mathematical model. The current and wave load effects on the shape and tension of the pipeline and cable are analyzed. This real-time virtual reality system will help engineering project in risk management and prediction as well as staff training, which is of vital significance for minimizing the risk of the actual pipe laying and improving the efficiency of the pipe-laying work.
Comparison between numerical analysis and the levitation mass method measurement test of a spherical structure early impacting water
Authors: Wang Yonghu , Shu Dongwei , Fujii Yusaku , Takita Akihiro , Ishima Tsuneaki , Araki Ryosuke
Published: January 2018

In order to precisely measure water impact loads of a spherical structure vertically dropping onto a calm water surface, a new validity check of the analysis using the levitation mass method experiment is proposed. The main feature of levitation mass method experiment is to obtain a better estimation of early water impact loads through the application of Doppler effect. Experimental results of different heights are verified based on the Assessment Index and are in comparison with the classical experimental data for validation purpose. It shows that the levitation mass method measurement is useful and effective to obtain the water impact loads for the crashworthiness analysis. Besides, early water impact hydrodynamic behaviors are simulated based on the nonlinear explicit finite element method, together with application of a multi-material arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian solver. A penalty coupling algorithm is utilized to realize fluid–structure interaction between the spherical body and fluids. Convergence studies are performed to construct the proper finite element model by the comparison with experimental results, where mesh sensitivity, contact stiffness, and time-step size parametric studies are thoroughly investigated. The comparisons between experimental and numerical results show good consistency by the prediction of the water impact coefficients on the structure.
Automatic and manual devices for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A review
Authors: Remino Carlo , Baronio Manuela , Pellegrini Nicola , Aggogeri Francesco , Adamini Riccardo
Published: January 2018

Rate of survival without any neurological consequence after cardiac arrest is driven not only by early recognition but also by high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Because the effectiveness of the manual cardiopulmonary resuscitation is usually impaired by rescuers’ fatigue, devices have been devised to improve it by appliances or ergonomic solutions. However, some devices are thought to replace the manual resuscitation altogether, either mimicking its action or generating hemodynamic effects with working principles which are entirely different. This article reviews such devices, both manual and automatic. They are mainly classified by actuation method, applied force, working space, and positioning time. Most of the trials and meta-analyses have not demonstrated that chest compressions given with automatic devices are more effective than those given manually. However, advances in clinical research and technology, with an improved understanding of the organizational implications of their use, are constantly improving the effectiveness of such devices.
Development of a novel self-locking mechanism for continuous propulsion inchworm in-pipe robot
Authors: Fang Delei , Shang Jianzhong , Luo Zirong , Lv Pengzhi , Wu Guoheng
Published: January 2018

In-pipe robots are usually used to carry many kinds of equipment to operate in the pipeline. In this article, a novel self-locking mechanism for continuous propulsion inchworm in-pipe robot is proposed. The constant power and continuous locomotion principle is obtained by upgrading the traditional pipeline robot. The structure of the inchworm in-pipe robot is designed including self-locking mechanism and telescopic mechanism. The operating principle of self-locking mechanism is analyzed for parameter design and performance evaluation. A new type of hydraulic cylinder series circuit is introduced, which realizes synchronous motion in the related mechanisms of pipe robot. And the dynamic characteristics of the hydraulic cylinders are analyzed and simulated to verify feasibility of the circuit. The prototype is developed to prove that the novel inchworm in-pipe robot can adapt to diameter of 140–180 mm pipe and has 550 N traction ability with the average speed of 0.11 m/s.
Constitutive investigation based on the time-hardening model for AH36 material in continuous casting process
Authors: Qin Qin , Tian Mingliang , Pu Jinmiao , Huang Jianlin
Published: January 2018

A detailed understanding of the constitutive behavior of AH36 material in continuous casting process was obtained through various high-temperature tensile testing at specific ranges of temperatures (1173–1673 K) and strain rates (10−4−10−2 s−1) using a Gleeble system. A significant variation in flow stress is evident over the entire range of temperatures under different strain rates. The constitutive equation of the AH36 material was suggested based on the time-hardening model. The results indicate that the accuracy of the model is relatively low at the temperatures of 1173, 1573, and 1673 K under the strain rates of 10−2 and 10−4 s−1. Therefore, a modification of the time-hardening model was carried out by including the compensation of strain rate in the Zener–Holloman parameter ( Z) to improve the accuracy. Furthermore, the deformation process was distributed into the regions of 1173, 1273–1473, and 1573–1673 K based on the exponent of strain rate at different ranges of temperature. The correlation coefficient between the computed and experimental flow stress data is 0.998. The average absolute relative error is within the range of allowable experimental conditions.
Rotary ultrasonic drilling of Ti6Al4V: Effects of machining parameters and tool diameter
Authors: Anwar Saqib , Nasr Mustafa M , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman , Alkahtani Mohammed , Abdo Basem , El-Tamimi Abdulaziz , Darwish Saied
Published: January 2018

This article presents the use of the rotary ultrasonic machining process for drilling holes in Ti6Al4V alloy which is regarded as a difficult-to-cut material due to its high-temperature strength and low thermal conductivity. This research presents an experimental investigation on the effect of the key rotary ultrasonic machining input parameters including ultrasonic power, spindle speed, feed rate, and the tool diameter on the main output responses including cutting force, hole cylindricity and overcut errors, and tool wear. No previous reports were found in literature to experimentally investigate the effect of the rotary ultrasonic machining parameters and the tool diameter on tool wear, surface integrity, and the accuracy of the drilled holes in Ti6Al4V alloy. The results showed that the rotary ultrasonic machining input parameters within the current ranges can significantly affect the quality of the drilled holes. Through proper selection of input parameters, holes could be drilled in Ti6Al4V alloy with smoothed surface morphology, low tool wear (0.7 mg) and very low cylindricity (2 µm) and overcut (120 µm) errors. Moreover, it was found that the selected level of any input parameter has the ability to significantly affect the influence of the other input parameters on the output responses.
‘Black diamonds’, ‘clever blacks’ and other metaphors: Constructing the black middle class in contemporary South African print media
Authors: Dimitris Kitis E , Milani Tommaso M , Levon Erez
Published: January 2018

South Africa (SA) has been undergoing a process of transformation since the end of White minority rule (apartheid) in 1994. During this period, various employment and lifestyle opportunities have given rise to a growing Black middle class (BMC). Against this backdrop, the article draws upon an intersectional approach to corpus-assisted discourse studies in order to examine the construction of the BMC in a 1.4 million-word corpus composed of 20 mainstream Anglophone South African newspaper titles published between 2008 and 2014. With the help of the corpus tool AntConc, the article investigates the collocates of ‘black middle class’, ‘black diamonds’, ‘clever blacks’ and ‘coconuts’, classifying results according to semantic categories in order to provide an idea of the multiple but nuanced representations of the BMC in contemporary SA. The analysis finds several lexically rich moralizing and paternalistic discourses that, in accordance with an intersectional perspective, enact a complex pattern of strategies that are simultaneously exclusionary and inclusionary.
Reciprocity, hierarchy, and obligation in world politics: From Kula to Potlatch
Authors: Oates John G , Grynaviski Eric
Published: January 2018

The observation that agents and structures are co-constituted is now commonplace, yet scholars continue to struggle to incorporate this insight. Rationalists tend to overemphasize actors’ agency in the constitution of social order while constructivists tend to overstate the degree to which structures determine action. This article uses The Gift to rethink the agent–structure debate, arguing that the model of social relations Mauss outlines in this work sheds new light on basic concepts in international relations theory such as reciprocity, hierarchy, and obligation. Mauss’ social theory locates the generative structure of social order in diffuse exchange relations, what he terms gift exchange, and assumes that actors are both socially positioned within hierarchical relations of exchange and reflexive agents who are able to understand and strive to change those relations. In so doing, he avoids reducing social order to either deeply internalized social norms or instrumental interests, navigating between agents and structures to develop a more dynamic model of social relations. This model of social order permits a richer understanding of hierarchy in world politics that appreciates the experience of domination and the possibility of resistance. It also provides a distinct understanding of the nature of social obligation and the “compliance pull” of social norms, locating their force in the reflexive recognition by actors that they are dependent on shared social relations for meaningful social agency. This points toward an ethics of stewardship that opens up new perspectives on the duties that states and others owe to each other, a duty grounded in an acknowledgment of our mutual vulnerability as socially constituted agents.
Using a Universal Design for Learning Checklist to Teach Secondary Transition Skills
Authors: Bartholomew Audrey L. , Griffin Nancy
Published: January 2018

The authors present a tool teachers can use to modify their instruction so that it is based on universal design and includes secondary transition topics and skills. This checklist includes Universal Design for Learning (UDL) checkpoints and prompts teachers to go through a set of guiding questions that focus on both UDL and secondary transition. Also included in the article are examples of how a general education teacher can use the checklist to design inclusive instruction around secondary transition topics.
High prevalence of ESBL-Producing E. coli in private and shared latrines in an informal urban settlement in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Erb Stefan , D’Mello-Guyett Lauren , Malebo Hamisi M. , Njee Robert M. , Matwewe Fatuma , Ensink Jeroen , Hinic Vladimira , Widmer Andreas , Frei Reno
Published: January 2018

Background

Data about the burden of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing microorganisms in Africa are limited. Our study aimed to estimate the prevalence of human faecal ESBL carriage in the community of an informal urban settlement in Dar es Salaam (Tanzania, East Africa) by using environmental contamination of household latrines with ESBL as a surrogate marker.

Methods

Within the context of a large survey in February 2014 assessing 636 randomly selected household latrines for faecal contamination by the detection of growth of E. coli and total faecal coliform bacteria, a randomly selected subset of the samples were screened for ESBL.

Results

Seventy latrines were screened for ESBL. An average of 11.4 persons (SD ±6.5) were sharing one latrine. Only three (4.3%) latrines had hand-washing facilities and 50 showed faeces on the floor. ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae were confirmed in 17 (24.3%) of the 70 latrine samples: 16 E. coli and 1 Klebsiella pneumoniae. Five ESBL E. coli strains were detected on door handles. The most prevalent ESBL type was CTX-M-1 group (76.5%). Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis typing of a subset of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates revealed both diverse singular types and a cluster of 3 identical isolates. There was no significant difference of the latrine and household characteristics between the group with ESBL (n = 17) and the group with non-ESBL E. coli (n = 53) (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Almost a quarter of private and shared latrines in an informal urban settlement in Tanzania are contaminated with ESBL-producing microorganisms, suggesting a high prevalence of human ESBL faecal carriage in the community. Shared latrines may serve as a reservoir for transmission in urban community settings in Tanzania.
Assessing uncertainties in high-resolution, multifrequency receiver-function inversion: A comparison with borehole data
Authors: Piana Agostinetti Nicola , Malinverno Alberto
Published: January 2018

We use teleseismic P-to-S converted waves from a permanent station to estimate the uncertainties in a 1D elastic model of the shallow crust (0–7 km depth) obtained from the inversion of receiver function (RF) data. Our earth model consists of layers with a constant S-wave velocity [Formula: see text] and P- to S-wave velocity ratio ([Formula: see text]). We apply a Bayesian formulation and transdimensional Monte Carlo sampling to compute the posterior uncertainties of the earth model. The model uncertainties rely on a realistic representation of the data uncertainties, and we estimate directly from the stacking of the teleseismic data, a full-error covariance matrix. To explore the effect of the number of teleseismic events and the RF frequency content, we compare the results of inverting a single RF computed for a cut-off filter frequency of 4 Hz with the joint inversion of four RFs computed from independent ensembles in a larger pool of events for cut-off frequencies of 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 Hz. The inversion results are compared with the lithostratigraphy and sonic-log measurements from a 7 km deep borehole drilled near the seismic station. The inversion of a single RF results in larger uncertainties in the recovered [Formula: see text] profile and in the depth to seismic discontinuities compared with the multifrequency inversion. Moreover, the multifrequency inversion predicts more accurately the depth to a velocity inversion at approximately 6 km below the surface and matches more closely the borehole sonic-log data. Our results indicate that RF data can be used to map shallow (3–5 km depth) crustal interfaces with uncertainties in the order of 300–500 m, whereas uncertainties are consistently smaller (<300 m) for interfaces in the top kilometer.
Distribution of PEG-coated hollow polyelectrolyte microcapsules after introduction into the circulatory system and muscles of zebrafish
Authors: Borvinskaya Ekaterina , Gurkov Anton , Shchapova Ekaterina , Baduev Boris , Meglinski Igor , Timofeyev Maxim
Published: January 2018

The use of polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules as carriers for fluorescent molecular probes is a prospective technique for monitoring the physiological characteristics of animal vasculature and interstitial environment in vivo. Polyelectrolyte microcapsules have many features that favor their use as implantable carriers of optical sensors, but little information is available on their interactions with complex living tissues, distribution or residence time following different routes of administration in the body of vertebrates. Using the common fish model, the zebrafish Danio rerio, we studied in vivo the distribution of non-biodegradable microcapsules covered with polyethylene glycol (PEG) over time in the adults and evaluated potential side effects of their delivery into the fish bloodstream and muscles. Fluorescent microcapsules administered into the bloodstream and interstitially (in concentrations that were sufficient for visualization and spectral signal recording) both showed negligible acute toxicity to the fishes during three weeks of observation. The distribution pattern of microcapsules delivered into the bloodstream was stable for at least one week, with microcapsules prevalent in capillaries-rich organs. However, after intramuscular injection, the phagocytosis of the microcapsules by immune cells was manifested, indicating considerable immunogenicity of the microcapsules despite PEG coverage. The long-term negative effects of chronic inflammation were also investigated in fish muscles by histological analysis.
Thermoregulatory postures limit antipredator responses in peafowl
Authors: Yorzinski Jessica L. , Lam Jennifer , Schultz Rachel , Davis Melissa
Published: January 2018

Many animals inhabit environments where they experience temperature fluctuations. One way in which animals can adjust to these temperature changes is through behavioral thermoregulation. However, we know little about the thermal benefits of postural changes and the costs they may incur. In this study, we examined the thermoregulatory role of two postures, the head-tuck and leg-tuck posture, in peafowl (Pavo cristatus) and evaluated whether the head-tuck posture imposes a predation cost. The heads and legs of peafowl are significantly warmer when the birds exhibit these postures, demonstrating that these postures serve an important thermoregulatory role. In addition, the birds are slower to respond to an approaching threat when they display the head-tuck posture, suggesting that a thermoregulatory posture can limit antipredator behavior.
Maturation of neural stem cells and integration into hippocampal circuits – a functional study in an in situ model of cerebral ischemia
Authors: Kopach Olga , Rybachuk Oksana , Krotov Volodymyr , Kyryk Vitalii , Voitenko Nana , Pivneva Tatyana
Published: January 2018

The hippocampus is the region of the brain that is most susceptible to ischemic lesion because it contains pyramidal neurons that are highly vulnerable to ischemic cell death. A restricted brain neurogenesis limits the possibility of reversing massive cell death after stroke and, hence, endorses cell-based therapies for neuronal replacement strategies following cerebral ischemia. Neurons differentiated from neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) can mature and integrate into host circuitry, improving recovery after stroke. However, how the host environment regulates the NSPC behavior in post-ischemic tissue remains unknown. Here, we studied functional maturation of NSPCs in control and post-ischemic hippocampal tissue after modelling cerebral ischemia in situ. We traced the maturation of electrophysiological properties and integration of the NSPC-derived neurons into the host circuits, with these cells developing appropriate activity 3 weeks or less after engraftment. In the tissue subjected to ischemia, the NSPC-derived neurons exhibited functional deficits, and differentiation of embryonic NSPCs to glial types – oligodendrocytes and astrocytes – was boosted. Our findings of the delayed neuronal maturation in post-ischemic conditions, while the NSPC differentiation was promoted towards glial cell types, provide new insights that could be applicable to stem cell therapy replacement strategies used after cerebral ischemia.
A systematic review of current osteoporotic metaphyseal fracture animal models
Authors: Wong R. M. Y. , Choy M. H. V. , Li M. C. M. , Leung K-S. , K-H. Chow S. , Cheung W-H. , Cheng J. C. Y.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The treatment of osteoporotic fractures is a major challenge, and the enhancement of healing is critical as a major goal in modern fracture management. Most osteoporotic fractures occur at the metaphyseal bone region but few models exist and the healing is still poorly understood. A systematic review was conducted to identify and analyse the appropriateness of current osteoporotic metaphyseal fracture animal models.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was performed on the Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, and relevant articles were selected. A total of 19 studies were included. Information on the animal, induction of osteoporosis, fracture technique, site and fixation, healing results, and utility of the model were extracted.

Results

Fracture techniques included drill hole defects (3 of 19), bone defects (3 of 19), partial osteotomy (1 of 19), and complete osteotomies (12 of 19). Drill hole models and incomplete osteotomy models are easy to perform and allow the study of therapeutic agents but do not represent the usual clinical setting. Additionally, biomaterials can be filled into drill hole defects for analysis. Complete osteotomy models are most commonly used and are best suited for the investigation of therapeutic drugs or noninvasive interventions. The metaphyseal defect models allow the study of biomaterials, which are associated with complex and comminuted osteoporotic fractures.

Conclusion

For a clinically relevant model, we propose that an animal model should satisfy the following criteria to study osteoporotic fracture healing: 1) induction of osteoporosis, 2) complete osteotomy or defect at the metaphysis unilaterally, and 3) internal fixation. Cite this article: R. M. Y. Wong, M. H. V. Choy, M. C. M. Li, K-S. Leung, S. K-H. Chow, W-H. Cheung, J. C. Y. Cheng. A systematic review of current osteoporotic metaphyseal fracture animal models. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:6–11. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2016-0334.R2.
Rapid detection of periprosthetic joint infection using a combination of 16s rDNA polymerase chain reaction and lateral flow immunoassay
Authors: Janz V. , Schoon J. , Morgenstern C. , Preininger B. , Reinke S. , Duda G. , Breitbach A. , Perka C. F. , Geissler S.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The objective of this study was to develop a test for the rapid (within 25 minutes) intraoperative detection of bacteria from synovial fluid to diagnose periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Methods

The 16s rDNA test combines a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for amplification of 16s rDNA with a lateral flow immunoassay in one fully automated system. The synovial fluid of 77 patients undergoing joint aspiration or primary or revision total hip or knee surgery was prospectively collected. The cohort was divided into a proof-of-principle cohort (n = 17) and a validation cohort (n = 60). Using the proof-of-principle cohort, an optimal cut-off for the discrimination between PJI and non-PJI samples was determined. PJI was defined as detection of the same bacterial species in a minimum of two microbiological samples, positive histology, and presence of a sinus tract or intra-articular pus.

Results

The 16s rDNA test proved to be very robust and was able to provide a result in 97% of all samples within 25 minutes. The 16s rDNA test was able to diagnose PJI with a sensitivity of 87.5% and 82%, and a specificity of 100% and 89%, in the proof-of-principle and validation cohorts, respectively. The microbiological culture of synovial fluid achieved a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 93% in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

The 16s rDNA test offers reliable intraoperative detection of all bacterial species within 25 minutes with a sensitivity and specificity comparable with those of conventional microbiological culture of synovial fluid for the detection of PJI. The 16s rDNA test performance is independent of possible blood contamination, culture time and bacterial species. Cite this article: V. Janz, J. Schoon, C. Morgenstern, B. Preininger, S. Reinke, G. Duda, A. Breitbach, C. F. Perka, S. Geissler. Rapid detection of periprosthetic joint infection using a combination of 16s rDNA polymerase chain reaction and lateral flow immunoassay: A Pilot Study. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:12–19. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2017-0103.R2.
“We’re not a bottomless pit”: food banks’ capacity to sustainably meet increasing demand
Authors: Iafrati Steve
Published: January 2018

Based on research with 21 food banks across eight local authority areas in England, this article examines the sustainability of food banks in their attempts to balance demand and supply. Against a background of multiple deprivation and welfare reforms in the UK, food banks are becoming increasingly important for growing numbers of people. However, at a time when food banks’ ability to meet this increasing demand is close to capacity, this article examines how social purpose is a core element in food banks’ understanding of sustainability. With food banks having little control over the level of demand, and supply being increasingly close to capacity, if demand exceeds supply, sustainability will necessitate either denying demand or expanding supply.
ETIKA KEWARGANEGARAAN DALAM SERAT WULANGREH
Authors: Zuhri Amat
Published: January 2018

Wulangreh is literature that contains piwulang written by Pakubuwana IV which it talks about the necessities to live and follow ethical kekratonan that has institutionalized. Although parts of this Wulangreh varies, but one thing that is clear is about the worship of the state, and more specifically the service to the king. Even likely be mentioned that the entire network of ethics and manners that diwejangkan stringing provisions or imperatives to devotion to the country and the king.Among the ethics that must be upheld by the citizens of the king is a necessity for absolute ruler without criticizing everything, and moral policy by not reveal ugliness. Ethics as it is based on the belief that the ruler is as representative of the Lord of all policies will always be true, so if it does not carry, let alone criticize, someone will meet disaster.Serat Wulangreh adalah karya sastra yang berisi piwulang yang ditulis oleh Paku Buwana IV yang isinya berbicara tentang keharusan-keharusan menghayati dan mengikuti etik kekratonan yang telah terlembagakan. Meskipun bagian-bagian dari Serat Wulangreh ini bervariasi, namun satu hal yang jelas adalah soal kebaktian kepada negara, dan lebih khusus lagi kebaktian kepada raja. Bahkan mungkin sekali dapat disebutkan bahwa seluruh jaringan etik dan tatakrama yang diwejangkan itu merangkai ketentuan-ketentuan atau keharusan-keharusan kepada pengabdian terhadap negara dan sang raja.Di antara etika yang yang harus dijunjung tinggi oleh warga negara terhadap raja adalah keharusan untuk mentaati penguasa secara mutlak tanpa mengkritik segala kebijakan serta moralnya dengan cara tidak membeberkan kejelekannya. Etika seperti itu didasarkan pada keyakinan bahwa penguasa adalah sebagai wakil Tuhan tentu segala kebijakannya akan selalu benar, sehingga apabila tidak melaksanakan, apalagi sampai mengkritiknya, seseorang akan menemui petaka
PASUWITAN: PERKAWINAN SEDULUR SIKEP
Authors: Kushidayati Lina
Published: January 2018

Samin people are communities follow the teaching of Ki Samin Surosentiko. They live in north coast of Java Island. As other Javanese people, they speak Javanese although mostly in ngoko style compare to their fellow Javanese who concern about language hierarchy. This article discusses marriage ceremony among Samin people consisting of several steps: nyumuk, ngendek, nyuwito-ngawulo and paseksen. The marriage ceremony was held in modest style but rich in meaning. The center of the marriage ceremony is the groom’s vow before the bride’s parents to be a husband. The vow is in simple Javanese language. According to Samin people, marriage ceremony is personal matter that needs no government involvement. Thus they do not register their marriage.