bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An introductory microcontroller programming laboratory course for first-year students
Authors: Nürnberg Thomas , Beuth Thorsten , Becker Jürgen , Puente León Fernando
Published: November 2015

This article presents an introductory microcontroller programming course on digital signal processing for undergraduate university level. The course is intended to provide insight into information technology and to prepare students for more complex exercises later on in their studies. Solutions to overcome pedagogical obstacles like the fear of new technologies and to minimise technological incompatibilities between different operating systems while setting up a programming tool chain are presented. This leads to an increased scalability of the course, allowing hundreds of students to attend each year. In the case presented here, the average number of participants was 300. The problem-oriented task assignments are defined leading to a final creative improvement task, for which the students’ solutions are analysed. The course is evaluated and an outlook on further improvements is given.
Why is There so Much Controversy Regarding the Population Health Impact of the Great Recession? Reflections on Three Case Studies
Authors: Bacigalupe Amaia , Shahidi Faraz Vahid , Muntaner Carles , Martín Unai , Borrell Carme
Published: November 2015

In the aftermath of the Great Recession, public health scholars have grown increasingly interested in studying the health consequences of macroeconomic change. Reflecting existing debates on the nature of this relationship, research on the effects of the recent economic crisis has sparked considerable controversy. On the one hand there is evidence to support the notion that macroeconomic downturns are associated with positive health outcomes. On the other hand, a growing number of studies warn that the current economic crisis can be expected to pose serious problems for the public’s health. This article contributes to this debate through a review of recent evidence from three case studies: Iceland, Spain, and Greece. It shows that the economic crisis has negatively impacted some population health indicators (e.g., mental health) in all three countries, but especially in Greece. Available evidence defies deterministic conclusions, including increasingly “conventional” claims about economic downturns improving life expectancy and reducing mortality. While our results echo previous research in finding that the relationship between economic crises and population health is complex, they also indicate that this complexity is not arbitrary. On the contrary, changing social and political contexts provide meaningful, if partial, explanations for the perplexing nature of recent empirical findings.
Social Protection in the Developing World
Authors: Rudra Nita
Published: November 2015

How are social protections evolving in the developing world, particularly as those nations confront the challenges of globalization? Scholars in this special issue examine the challenges, continuity, and changes in social protections across the developing world over the last few decades. The common theme that emerges from this informative group of papers is that developing nations are confronting unique politico-economic difficulties as well as opportunities for the development of their welfare programs. This is a vastly understudied topic. The studies in this issue tackle some of the unanswered questions of the globalization–social protection debate in developing economies, with a particular focus on how politics plays into the relationship. These articles hope to initiate a dialogue and offer suggestions for further research in this critical area of study.
Social Protection for the Poorest
Authors: Brooks Sarah M.
Published: November 2015

Conditional cash transfers (CCTs) represent an innovation in social assistance policy by conditioning welfare benefits on recipients’ behaviors associated with human capital development. Although social assistance has expanded throughout the developing world in the 21st century, the political logic guiding CCT adoption differs sharply from that of unconditional cash transfers, and from the politics of social insurance development. Striking spatial and temporal correlations in their adoption also raise the specter of policy interdependence. A dynamic logit analysis of social assistance reforms in developing nations from 1990 to 2011 reveals that although CCTs have been impelled by democratization in developing countries, the model is not embraced systematically by the left or the right of the political spectrum. Rather, CCTs are more likely to be adopted in contexts of divided government and where regional neighbors, and more democratic countries in the region, have previously adopted them.
The racialization of Muslims in France and the United States: Some insights from white converts to Islam
Authors: Galonnier Juliette
Published: November 2015

This article uses conversion to Islam as a lens through which to explore the intricacies of race and religion in France and the United States. Using in-depth interviewing and ethnography, the author explores how white converts relate to their allegedly dissonant racial and religious identities in national contexts where Islam has been racialized as ‘Brown’ and foreign. Focusing on two countries that have historically had highly contrasted understandings of race and religion, she offers a comparative analysis of how race operates in the lives of Muslim converts on both sides of the Atlantic. The article shows that, even though processes of racial assignation work in a similar manner in both cases, French and American converts report different experiences with race, thereby suggesting that the racialization of Islam is endowed with different textures and meanings across national contexts.
Should I stay or should I go? Locational decisions and coping strategies of Turkish homeowners in low-income neighbourhoods
Authors: Hanhoerster Heike
Published: November 2015

The paper analyses residential mobility and neighbourhood choice of Turkish-origin homeowners in Germany. The research focuses on the decision-making processes of the Turkish-origin second generation either to stay in low-income neighbourhoods or to leave their ‘old’ residential environment. Findings illustrate coping strategies the households develop to deal with drawbacks. The analysis is based on 30 in-depth interviews with Turkish-origin households in the city of Duisburg. Research findings indicate three different dimensions, which shape decisions: the ‘family orientation’, the ‘social positioning’ and the ‘investment strategy’ of the households. The decision either to stay or to leave is followed by several coping strategies that are exercised in order to overcome perceived disadvantages. The set of strategies ranges from bridging out of the neighbourhood to local boundary-making in social and spatial terms. These coping strategies provide important clues for understanding the residential satisfaction of both stayers and leavers.
“Brain Magnet”: Research Triangle Park and the Origins of the Creative City, 1953-19651
Authors: Cummings Alex Sayf
Published: November 2015

This essay aims to historicize urban theorist Richard Florida’s influential formulation of the “creative class” by focusing on the emergence of a high-tech economy in North Carolina’s Research Triangle metropolitan area. In the 1950s, a powerful coalition of academics, businesspeople, and politicians launched a plan to move the state away from its traditional reliance on low-wage industries by founding a research park between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, believing that scientific firms would value the park’s proximity to several nearby colleges and universities. The essay argues that local boosters emphasized the area’s cultural opportunities and intellectual climate as major quality-of-life considerations not only for high-tech companies, but also the scientists and engineers that they hoped to employ. Research Triangle Park thus created a blueprint for subsequent development strategies—later promoted by Florida, among other scholars and consultants—that made arts, education, and other cultural institutions central to the marketing of an urban area’s identity.
The concept of Librarian 2.0 in Kuwaiti academic libraries
Authors: Ghuloum Husain F , Buabbas Hasan
Published: November 2015

Attempts have been made to explore the impact of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on the entire gamut of the library and information sector and to conceptualise the transformation of conventional libraries into Web 2.0, Library 2.0 and Librarian 2.0, which will bring a changing scenario to the information industry. In the last few years, discussion and debate about the ‘core competencies’ needed by Librarian 2.0 have appeared in the academic environment. This investigation aims to identify the key skills, knowledge and attributes required by Librarian 2.0 in academic libraries in Kuwait. Twenty librarians from four academic libraries in Kuwait participated in a series of focus groups. The five themes discussed as being crucial to Librarian 2.0 include: communication, teamwork, technology, learning and education, and personal traits. This article provides a detailed discussion of each of these themes. The results show that in the age of Web 2.0 librarians in Kuwait academic libraries need more knowledge and awareness of communication and teamwork skills. Furthermore, they need to shift their attitude towards the concept of Librarian 2.0 by developing a clear understanding of the key factors that must be present in any Librarian 2.0. The study findings contribute to providing a framework towards the concept of Librarian 2.0 in academic libraries in the State of Kuwait. This framework will contribute to improving their awareness of and attitude to this topic in the future.
“Don’t touch that dial”: Accommodating musical preferences in interpersonal relationships
Authors: Denes Amanda , Gasiorek Jessica , Giles Howard
Published: November 2015

How we adapt our behavior for others’ preferences in interpersonal interactions—particularly when those preferences differ from our own—can be a means to nonverbally communicate our attention, interest, and concern for them. Invoking communication accommodation theory (CAT), this vignette study examined how relational closeness and attraction influenced accommodation to others’ musical tastes. One hundred and fifty-nine individuals completed questionnaires assessing their imagined musical accommodation in response to the scenarios detailed in the vignettes. As hypothesized, we found that accommodation of musical preferences was generally predicted by how relationally close or attractive these others were considered to be. However, how important individuals self-reported music to be did not moderate these results. These findings suggest that accommodating to another person’s musical tastes may be a nonverbal way of showing concern for another’s preferences and may communicate closeness and attraction. In this way, musical accommodation may help build, sustain, and manage social relationships. These results extend CAT into a new applied domain and the implications of the findings are discussed.
An investigation of subgrade differential settlement on the dynamic response of the vehicle–track system
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Burrow Michael , Zhou Shunhua
Published: November 2015

The construction of non-ballasted slab railway track on existing subgrade soils, or on embankments, is at an early stage of development on Chinese railways. Developing appropriate standards for the allowable amount of subgrade differential settlement that takes into account the dynamic response of the train–track system is one of a number of issues that need to be addressed. To inform the development of such standards, a model based on the theory of vehicle–track coupling dynamics, which considers the weight of the track structure, was created to investigate how differential settlement, in terms of the amplitude, wavelength and position of the settlement along the track, can affect various railway performance-related criteria, including ride quality, stability, vehicle safety and potential damage to the wheel of the train and the rail (i.e. forces at the wheel–rail contact and in the fasteners). The performance of the model was favorably compared with other widely used models described in the literature. The analysis of the study to inform design standards using the developed model demonstrated that the magnitude of the differential settlement influences passenger comfort the most compared with other performance criteria. For the considered CRTS I track, there exists a particular wavelength (8 m for the specific conditions considered) that results in all measures of performance being at their maximum values. Furthermore, the longitudinal position of the settlement waveform in relation to the joints between two concrete slabs, a factor which is not considered in design standards, was shown to influence component deterioration, passenger comfort and safety. The greatest propensity to cause component damage occurs when the beginning or end of the differential settlement waveform corresponds with the inter-slab joint of a concrete base. Accordingly, it is recommended that current design standards should be modified to specify appropriate combinations of amplitude, wavelength and position of the differential settlement to give acceptable measures of performance.
Influence of under-chassis-suspended equipment on high-speed EMU trains and the design of suspension parameters
Authors: Gong Dao , Zhou Jinsong , Sun Wenjing
Published: November 2015

A numerical method for the calculation of the frequencies of vibration of a car body on a high-speed electric multiple unit train with under-chassis-suspended equipment is proposed. In addition, the design of the parameters of the suspension system for the equipment is presented; it is based on the principles of mode matching, transmissibility matching, and consideration of the optimal vibration of both car body and equipment. It is shown that by tuning the suspension stiffness, the first vertical bending frequency of the car body displays a frequency-hopping phenomenon. The first vertical bending frequency of the car body can be enhanced by optimizing the suspension parameters, so as to suppress the vibrations of both the car body and the suspended equipment.
2015 UK national guideline for the management of infection with Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Nwokolo Nneka C , Dragovic Bojana , Patel Sheel , Tong CY William , Barker Gary , Radcliffe Keith
Published: November 2015

This guideline offers recommendations on the diagnostic tests, treatment regimens and health promotion principles needed for the effective management of Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection. It covers the management of the initial presentation, as well the prevention of transmission and future infection. The guideline is aimed at individuals aged 16 years and older presenting to healthcare professionals working in departments offering Level 3 care in sexually transmitted infections management within the UK. However, the principles of the recommendations should be adopted across all levels, using local care pathways where appropriate.
Anal dysplasia in HIV-infected women: a commentary on the field
Authors: Godfrey Catherine , Firnhaber Cynthia S , D'Souza Gypsyamber , Heard Isabelle
Published: November 2015

Anal cancer may be an emerging clinical problem in HIV-infected women particularly in resource-limited settings. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a precursor to anal cancer and is prevalent in HIV-infected women, but the natural history of HPV infection and anal cancer precursors is not well described in this population. It is not known which specific dysplastic lesions in the anus are most likely to progress, and whether treatment of high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion reduces the incidence of anal cancer in women. Cervical HPV infection and associated lesions may be related to the pathogenesis and natural history of anal disease. Cervical screening is resource intensive but some limited infrastructure exists in most areas where cervical cancer is prevalent. Anal screening, however is not performed. It may be that the infrastructure for cervical screening may be leveraged in developing the appropriate research, screening and treatment tools for anal dysplasia.
BF*F allotype of the alternative pathway of complement: A marker of protection against the development of antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Picceli V F , Skare T L , Nisihara R M , Nass F R , Messias-Reason I T , Utiyama S R R
Published: November 2015

Background

B factor (BF) from the alternative complement pathway seems to participate in the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Objective

To study the allotypic variability of BF in SLE and their associations with clinical and autoantibodies profile.

Methods

BF allotypes were determined by high-voltage agarose gel electrophoresis, under constant cooling, followed by immunofixation with anti-human BF antibody, in 188 SLE patients and 103 controls. Clinical and serological data were obtained from medical examination and records.

Results

No significant differences of BF variants between patients and controls were found, neither in relation to epidemiologic or clinical manifestations. Associations of phenotype BF SS07 and allotype BF*S07 were found with anticardiolipin IgM (aCl-IgM) antibodies ( p = 0.014 and p = 0.009 respectively), but not with aCl-IgG, lupus anticoagulant (LA), anti β2GPI or clinical APS. A significant decrease in BF*F allotype ( p = 0.043) and BF SF phenotype ( p = 0.018) was detected in patients with anti-phospholipid antibodies as a whole (aCl-IgG, aCl-IgM, LA and anti β2GPI).

Conclusions

There is a link between phenotype BF SS07 and allotype BF*S07 with aCl-IgM in SLE patients; BF*F allotype could be considered a marker of protection against the development of antiphospholipid antibodies in these patients.
Factors Influencing Access to Sexual Health Care Among Behaviorally Bisexual Men in Vientiane, Laos
Authors: Bowring Anna L. , Pasomsouk Nakhornphet , Higgs Peter , Sychareun Vanphanom , Hellard Margaret , Power Robert
Published: November 2015

In Laos, men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV, and bisexual behavior among men is common. We conducted a qualitative study to explore access and influences on sexual health care seeking among bisexual men in Vientiane. In 2013, behaviorally bisexual men were recruited from bars, clubs and dormitories for 5 focus group discussions and 11 in-depth interviews. Participants (aged 18-35 years) commonly reported high-risk sexual behaviors, yet most had never been tested for HIV, and none reported testing for sexually transmitted infections. Common barriers to testing were low perception of risk, expectation of symptoms, fear of HIV, shyness, perceived stigma, confidentiality concerns, and waiting times. Many men were unaware of available services. Most clinics cannot provide comprehensive HIV and sexually transmitted infection services. Strategies are needed to generate demand for testing, improve the capacity of sexual health care providers, and promote available services among behaviorally bisexual men in Vientiane.
Primary Care Provider Perspectives on Electronic Medication Refill History
Authors: Comer Dominique , Mearns Elizabeth , Olivere Lindsey , Elliott Daniel J.
Published: November 2015

Improvements in health information technology have made aggregate multipayer pharmacy claims data increasingly available through the electronic health record (EHR). The objective of this study was to assess the current awareness, utilization, and impact of pharmacy history data available in the EHR on primary care provider (PCP) decision making. A 14-question survey was distributed to all PCPs in a large medical practice. Of the 55/72 responding PCPs, 47 (85.5%) were aware of the EHR medication history function, and 36 (65.5%) had used it previously. Respondents indicated the medication history could be most useful when considering prescribing a narcotic (33/36, 92%) and when addressing nonadherence concerns (28/35, 80%). Barriers included delays in data loading and the time pressures of clinical practice. Access to aggregate multipayer pharmacy history data has the potential to affect medication reconciliation, yet future implementation should focus on making these data complete and easily available in routine practice.
Executive Functioning Predicts Academic But Not Social Adjustment to University
Authors: Sheehan Whitley A. , Iarocci Grace
Published: November 2015

Objective: Adjusting well academically and socially has been associated with enhanced academic performance and student retention. The purpose of this study was to examine subthreshold levels of ADHD symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and executive functioning as potential predictors of academic and social adjustment in a healthy sample of university students. Method: Participants were 135 undergraduate university students who completed self-report questionnaires. Results: Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that metacognition (an aspect of executive function), gender, and age were significant predictors of academic adjustment beyond hyperactivity, inattention, and depression. Depression was the only significant predictor of social adjustment. Conclusion: The BASC–College form may identify depression symptoms predictive of social adjustment, but symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity are not sufficiently sensitive to predict academic adjustment. Measures of executive function that include metacognition such as the BRIEF-A may be most promising in identifying skills predictive of academic adjustment.
Democratic Cultural Values as Predictors of Cross-National Homicide Variation in Europe
Authors: Stamatel Janet P.
Published: November 2015

This study examines the extent to which variations in homicide rates across Europe, particularly differences between Western and Eastern Europe, can be explained by democratic cultural values. Prior studies have shown that individualism and egalitarianism promoted by democratic regimes are usually associated with lower levels of interpersonal violence. This study tests this relationship on a sample of 33 countries circa 2010. Not only does this relationship hold, but further analysis also shows that democratic values have both a direct and indirect effect on homicide rates as they are mediated by the strength of democratic institutions and practices.
Perceptions of exercise consistency: Relation to exercise-related cognitive errors and cognitions
Authors: Locke Sean R , Brawley Lawrence R
Published: November 2015

This study examined psychological differences between individuals (1) with varying perceptions of their exercise adherence pattern and (2) who do and do not make exercise-related cognitive errors. A total of 364 adults completed an exercise pattern and cognitive errors questionnaire. Individuals perceiving themselves as consistent exercisers reported more adaptive social cognitive outcomes (e.g. higher self-regulatory efficacy) than those perceiving themselves as inconsistent. Individuals expressing stronger exercise-related cognitive errors exercised less and reported problematic cognitions (e.g. more struggle with exercise decisions). These results link inconsistent adherence perceptions to weaker social cognitions and exercise-related cognitive errors, a novel form of bias related to limited exercise engagement.
SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism contributes to sepsis risk and mortality
Authors: Shi Qiankun , Mu Xinwei , Hong Liang , Zheng Shuyun
Published: November 2015

Introduction:

The present meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether there is an association between SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism and sepsis risk and mortality.

Materials and methods:

Published reports were searched in PubMed, PubMed Central, Gene, PubChem and Google Scholar. Odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were assessed in a random-effects model.

Results:

The results of the overall meta-analysis indicated that an increased sepsis risk was evidently associated with SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism (OR = 1.30; 95% CI 1.08–1.56; p = 0.006). When studies were stratified by ethnicity, no significant association was observed between SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism and sepsis risk in the Asian group. As for the Caucasian population, overall OR was 1.24 (95% CI 1.02–1.51; p = 0.03). The results of the overall meta-analysis indicated that an increased sepsis mortality risk was evidently associated with SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism (OR = 1.73; 95% CI 1.31–2.28; p < 0.0001). When studies were stratified by ethnicity, significant association was observed between SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism and sepsis risk mortality in the Asian group and the Caucasian population.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the meta-analysis suggests that there are significant associations between SERPINE1 rs1799768 polymorphism and risk of sepsis and sepsis mortality.
Beyond description to interpretation and theory in qualitative social work research
Authors: Gilgun Jane F
Published: November 2015

This article describes analytic procedures that build upon one another and lead toward interpretation and theory construction in qualitative social work research. Using examples from my own research and the research of others, I show relationships between descriptions, analysis, interpretation, and theorizing. Analytic procedures that move researchers beyond description include reflexivity statements, fieldnotes, group analysis of data, creative thinking, and making conscious choices about when and how to add conceptual material in design and analysis. My thesis is that descriptions are the foundation of both interpretation and theory construction and that descriptions themselves are not simple to do.
The self-management experience of patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease: A qualitative study
Authors: Shirazian Shayan , Crnosija Natalie , Weinger Katie , Jacobson Alan M , Park Joonho , Tanenbaum Molly L , Gonzalez Jeffrey S , Mattana Joseph , Hammock Amy C
Published: November 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to explore views related to the self-management of type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Methods

We conducted three semi-structured focus groups in participants with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Credibility was supported through triangulation of data sources and the use of multiple investigators from different disciplines.

Results

Twenty-three adults participated. Three major themes were identified: emotional reactions to health state, the impact of family dynamics on self-management, and the burden of self-management regimens. Family dynamics were found to be a barrier and support to self-management, while complicated self-management regimens were found to be a barrier. Additionally, participants expressed several emotional reactions related to their CKD status, including regret related to having developed CKD and distress related both to their treatment regimens and the future possibility of dialysis.

Conclusions

This exploratory study of patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease describes barriers and supports to self-management and emotional reactions to chronic kidney disease status. Future research should confirm these findings in a larger population and should include family members and/or health care providers to help further define problems with self-management in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Feeding Practices and Outcomes of Infants Undergoing the Norwood Procedure
Authors: Beggs Megan R. , Joynt Chloe , Phillipos Ernest , Garcia Guerra Gonzalo , Larsen Bodil M. K.
Published: November 2015

Objective. To determine if early pre- and postoperative enteral feeding was associated with improved postoperative outcomes in infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergoing the Norwood procedure. Study Design. Retrospective chart review of infants undergoing stage 1 surgical palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Results. Baseline demographics were similar between infants who received preoperative enteral nutrition (n = 17) and those who did not (n = 23). Infants who received no enteral nutrition had higher preoperative serum lactate levels (3.7 ± 2.1 vs 2.5 ± 0.8 mmol/L, P = .02). Postoperative length of stay, days of parenteral nutrition, and progression of enteral nutrition did not differ between groups. Postoperative length of stay was positively correlated with postoperative number of days from first to full enteral nutrition (r = .6; P < .0005) and day at full enteral nutrition (r = .6; P < .0005) but not day of first enteral nutrition (r = .15; P = .382). Conclusion. While current evidence indicates benefit of early enteral feeding, no association was found between preoperative enteral nutrition and postoperative outcomes measured. Further research using feeding algorithms may help inform care of these complex infants.
The democratizing effect of education
Authors: Alemán Eduardo , Kim Yeaji
Published: November 2015

Several influential scholars have argued that increases in education improve levels of democracy. However, relevant challenges to this view have also figured prominently. In this article we tackle this controversy. We examine the link between education and democracy using an expanded dataset on educational attainment that covers most of the postwar era. We find that increases in levels of education improve levels of democracy and that the democratizing effect of education is more intense in poor countries.
Diagnosis of bone metastasis from thyroid carcinoma: a multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Bechsgaard Thor , Lelkaitis Giedrius , Jensen Karl E , Ewertsen Caroline
Published: November 2015

Sarcomas are rare tumors originating from soft tissue or bone. Diagnosis and treatment of sarcomas should be performed at specialized sarcoma centers, where patients are evaluated at a multidisciplinary tumor conference. We present a case where sarcoma was suspected from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but histology revealed a metastasis from thyroid carcinoma, although the patient had no previous history of thyroid malignancy and resection of the thyroid gland was without malignancy. Ultrasound-guided biopsy was possible due to cortical destruction and the multidisciplinary approach with re-evaluation of previous pathology and a thorough patient history enabled a final diagnosis.
A phase 1 clinical trial of the selective BTK inhibitor ONO/GS-4059 in relapsed and refractory mature B-cell malignancies
Authors: Walter Harriet S. , Rule Simon A. , Dyer Martin J. S. , Karlin Lionel , Jones Ceri , Cazin Bruno , Quittet Philippe , Shah Nimish , Hutchinson Claire V. , Honda Hideyuki , Duffy Kevin , Birkett Joseph , Jamieson Virginia , Courtenay-Luck Nigel , Yoshizawa Toshio , Sharpe John , Ohno Tomoya , Abe Shinichiro , Nishimura Akihisa , Cartron Guillaume , Morschhauser Franck , Fegan Christopher , Salles Gilles
Published: November 2015

Key Points

We report a first-in-human dose-escalation study in relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies with the potent BTK inhibitor ONO/GS-4059. ONO/GS-4059 induced clinically durable responses in relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies without significant toxicities.
Task implementation heterogeneity and wage dispersion
Authors: Visintin Stefano , Tijdens Kea , Steinmetz Stephanie , de Pedraza Pablo
Published: November 2015

Wage dispersion among observationally similar workers is still only partially unexplained by economists from both a theoretical and an empirical point of view. Given that jobs can be broken down into tasks, namely units of work activities producing output, we empirically test whether part of the observed variation in wages across similar individuals is related to differences in the intensity with which tasks are implemented. We then investigate whether the variety in task implementation shown across occupations is related to cross-occupation wage levels. We found that the variation in task implementation in different occupations is related both to within-occupation wage dispersion and to cross-occupation wage levels: workers in high-wage occupations are less defined around a typical worker than those in other occupations.

JEL codes: J22, J24, J31
Role of G-CSF in monophosphoryl lipid A-mediated augmentation of neutrophil functions after burn injury
Authors: Bohannon Julia K , Luan Liming , Hernandez Antonio , Afzal Aqeela , Guo Yin , Patil Naeem K , Fensterheim Benjamin , Sherwood Edward R
Published: November 2015

Infection is the leading cause of death in severely burned patients that survive the acute phase of injury. Neutrophils are the first line of defense against infections, but hospitalized burn patients frequently cannot mount an appropriate innate response to infection. Thus, immune therapeutic approaches aimed at improving neutrophil functions after burn injury may be beneficial. Prophylactic treatment with the TLR4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A is known to augment resistance to infection by enhancing neutrophil recruitment and facilitating bacterial clearance. This study aimed to define mechanisms by which monophosphoryl lipid A treatment improves bacterial clearance and survival in a model of burn-wound sepsis. Burn-injured mice were treated with monophosphoryl lipid A or vehicle, and neutrophil mobilization was evaluated in the presence or absence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Monophosphoryl lipid A treatment induced significant mobilization of neutrophils from the bone marrow into the blood and sites of infection. Neutrophil mobilization was associated with decreased bone marrow neutrophil CXCR4 expression and increased plasma G-CSF concentrations. Neutralization of G-CSF before monophosphoryl lipid A administration blocked monophosphoryl lipid A-induced expansion of bone marrow myeloid progenitors and mobilization of neutrophils into the blood and their recruitment to the site of infection. G-CSF neutralization ablated the enhanced bacterial clearance and survival benefit endowed by monophosphoryl lipid A in burn-wound-infected mice. Our findings provide convincing evidence that monophosphoryl lipid A-induced G-CSF facilitates early expansion, mobilization, and recruitment of neutrophils to the site of infection after burn injury, allowing for a robust immune response to infection.
Strain Limit States for Circular RC Bridge Columns
Authors: Goodnight Jason C. , Kowalsky Mervyn J. , Nau James M.
Published: November 2015

Described in this paper are strain limit states for reinforced concrete bridge columns. A total of 30 large scale reinforced concrete bridge columns were subjected to either reversed cyclic loading or real seismic load histories as part of this research program. Through the use of a non-contact three-dimensional (3-D) position measurement system, accurate strain measurements that are not possible with conventional instrumentation were made, which allowed for development of strain limits for serviceability, spiral yielding, and reinforcing bar buckling limit states. The proposed bar buckling strain limit was compared to an existing drift-based approach and one formulated using finite element analysis for columns in the data set and the literature.
Seismic Hazard in the Eastern United States
Authors: Mueller Charles S. , Boyd Oliver S. , Petersen Mark D. , Moschetti Morgan P. , Rezaeian Sanaz , Shumway Allison M.
Published: November 2015

The U.S. Geological Survey seismic hazard maps for the central and eastern United States were updated in 2014. We analyze results and changes for the eastern part of the region. Ratio maps are presented, along with tables of ground motions and deaggregations for selected cities. The Charleston fault model was revised, and a new fault source for Charlevoix was added. Background seismicity sources utilized an updated catalog, revised completeness and recurrence models, and a new adaptive smoothing procedure. Maximum-magnitude models and ground motion models were also updated. Broad, regional hazard reductions of 5%–20% are mostly attributed to new ground motion models with stronger near-source attenuation. The revised Charleston fault geometry redistributes local hazard, and the new Charlevoix source increases hazard in northern New England. Strong increases in mid- to high-frequency hazard at some locations—for example, southern New Hampshire, central Virginia, and eastern Tennessee—are attributed to updated catalogs and/or smoothing.
Epithelial topography for repetitive tooth formation
Authors: Gaete Marcia , Fons Juan Manuel , Popa Elena Mădălina , Chatzeli Lemonia , Tucker Abigail S.
Published: November 2015

During the formation of repetitive ectodermally derived organs such as mammary glands, lateral line and teeth, the tissue primordium iteratively initiates new structures. In the case of successional molar development, new teeth appear sequentially in the posterior region of the jaw from Sox2+ cells in association with the posterior aspect of a pre-existing tooth. The sequence of molar development is well known, however, the epithelial topography involved in the formation of a new tooth is unclear. Here, we have examined the morphology of the molar dental epithelium and its development at different stages in the mouse in vivo and in molar explants. Using regional lineage tracing we show that within the posterior tail of the first molar the primordium for the second and third molar are organized in a row, with the tail remaining in connection with the surface, where a furrow is observed. The morphology and Sox2 expression of the tail retains characteristics reminiscent of the earlier stages of tooth development, such that position along the A-P axes of the tail correlates with different temporal stages. Sox9, a stem/progenitor cell marker in other organs, is expressed mainly in the suprabasal epithelium complementary with Sox2 expression. This Sox2 and Sox9 expressing molar tail contains actively proliferating cells with mitosis following an apico-basal direction. Snail2, a transcription factor implicated in cell migration, is expressed at high levels in the tip of the molar tail while E-cadherin and laminin are decreased. In conclusion, our studies propose a model in which the epithelium of the molar tail can grow by posterior movement of epithelial cells followed by infolding and stratification involving a population of Sox2+/Sox9+ cells.
Relacionamento conjugal e características sociodemográficas de casais heteroafetivos
Authors: Schmidt Beatriz , Bolze Simone Dill Azeredo , Vieira Mauro Luis , Crepaldi Maria Aparecida
Published: November 2015

O presente estudo objetivou descrever a relação entre relacionamento conjugal e características sociodemográficas em arranjos familiares heteroafetivos. Participaram da pesquisa 208 adultos (104 mulheres e 104 homens), com média de 30 a 40 anos de idade e 10 anos de relação conjugal. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o Questionário Sociodemográfico e o Questionário Floreal. Os dados da pesquisa foram submetidos ao Statistical Package for Social Sciences e analisados de forma descritiva e inferencial. A relação de casal dos respondentes se caracterizou, em média, por harmonia conjugal. Identificou-se que quanto menor a renda e menor a escolaridade, mais os cônjuges referiram interações permeadas por reciprocidade negativa e evitação. No mesmo sentido, o número de pessoas residentes no domicílio familiar também se apresentou positivamente relacionado à emergência de brigas, discussões, trocas de acusações e sentimentos de desigualdade entre o casal, bem como à retração feminina com o intento de evitar conflitos conjugais. As mulheres pareceram mais sensíveis às relações entre conjugalidade e variáveis sociodemográficas em comparação aos homens.
Lógicas de controle e marcos legais: a proteção no campo da infância e da adolescência
Authors: Nascimento Maria Livia do , Arello Maria Isabel Rosa da Silva , Santiago Gláucia Helena de Paula
Published: November 2015

A pesquisa teve como objetivo colocar em análise os sentidos de proteção, presentes nos documentos reguladores das políticas públicas, destinadas a crianças e adolescentes. Como suportes teórico-epistemológicos utilizamos a história como uma ferramenta de análise e as discussões sobre as relações de saber/poder, proposições trabalhadas por Michel Foucault, e o conceito de situação analisadora da análise institucional, na qual acontecimentos são tomados como disparadores que levam ao questionamento de verdades instituídas e de crenças engessadas. O encontro dessas linhas de pensamento com os documentos oficiais estudados possibilitou o levantamento de quatro analisadores: a afirmação da família como o lugar ideal para o cuidado de crianças e adolescentes (analisador família), as lógicas do controle e da vigilância presentes no contemporâneo (analisador controle), as teorias psicológicas do desenvolvimento atreladas à ideia de prevenção, risco e vulnerabilidade da infância (analisador teorias do desenvolvimento) e a força do discurso especialista (analisador especialismo). Para esse relato destacamos o analisador controle. A lógica presente nos discursos de proteção opera através de mecanismos de poder pautados nas noções de vulnerabilidade, risco e periculosidade, criando a necessidade de gestão e de controle de uma parcela específica da população.
Transtornos mentais comuns e associação com variáveis sociodemográficas e estressores ocupacionais: uma análise de gênero
Authors: Carlotto Mary Sandra , Barcinski Mariana , Fonseca Rosália
Published: November 2015

Este estudo teve por objetivo identificar a prevalência de Transtornos Mentais Comuns (TMC) em servidores públicos da Justiça Estadual e verificar a existência de associações entre variáveis sociodemográficas e estressores ocupacionais entre homens e mulheres. A amostra aleatória constituiu-se de 541 servidores públicos, 354 mulheres e 187 homens, pertencentes a uma instituição do Poder Judiciário do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, em 2011. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) para avaliar os Transtornos Mentais Comuns e um questionário composto por questões sobre dados sociodemográficos, laborais e estressores ocupacionais. Os resultados evidenciaram que as mulheres apresentam maior prevalência de TMC. Na relação entre TMC e variáveis sociodemográficas e estressores ocupacionais, de acordo com o sexo, verifica-se relação com o tempo de trabalho e com os estressores carga horária, diversidade, complexidade do trabalho e relação com chefia, colegas e ambiente social. Os dados foram discutidos a partir da compreensão sobre o mercado de trabalho contemporâneo e sua interface com as relações de gênero. Os resultados apontam a necessidade de intervenções diferenciadas nos grupos pesquisados.
Incidence of postpartum depression in new fathers
Authors: Bria Karina , Pincombe Jan , Fedoruk Maria
Published: November 2015

Paternal postpartum depression (PPd) in new fathers has been under researched. A systematic review of the literature concerning new fathers and their experiences with anxiety and depression during the postpartum period was conducted. Outcomes of the review suggest that although fathers expressed overall satisfaction with their newborn, they also experienced symptoms of distress, anxiety and depression in relation to these added responsibilities as a father and provider for their family. Role confusion and gender specific factors of adjustment associated with the changes to lifestyle were also considered to contribute to a less positive experience in some men's transition to fatherhood. Postnatal depression (Pnd) experienced by a spouse was a significant risk factor for men developing the symptoms of PPd. There was a paucity of information on the role of the health professional especially the midwife in detecting PPd in new fathers. The review highlights that some new fathers found pregnancy and the postpartum experience to be overwhelming and stressful.
Inspection under the CIF
Authors: O'Connell Suzanne
Published: November 2015

We have seen it on paper, but what does the new CIF – the Common Inspection Framework – mean in practice? Suzanne O'Connell speaks to Steve Barrand about his experiences of an Ofsted inspection in September 2015
Handling increasing rolls
Authors: Frostick Helen
Published: November 2015

Is your school site constrained? Is your school roll rising? From travel plans to making the most of your playground space, National Leader of Education Helen Frostick discusses how to cope with increasing pupil numbers when space is already tight
The DNA of effective schools
Authors: Donnison Liam
Published: November 2015

Ofsted guidelines change constantly, and while they do give schools something to focus on, research has shown that effectiveness comes from a set of fundamental principles that improve outcomes in all areas. Liam Donnison explains
An SEND audit framework
Authors: Sobel Daniel
Published: November 2015

How effective is your school's overall SEND provision? Inclusion expert Daniel Sobel urges you not to wait for problems to develop, but to self-audit your SEND using the following framework
The Orpington Prognostic Scale: A predictive tool for discharge destination and outcomes in stroke survivors admitted to a hyperacute stroke unit
Authors: Mohapatra Sushmita , Jones Amy
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims:

Accurate assessment of severity of impairment and prediction of prognosis following stroke are important for determining a patient's rehabilitation needs. This study investigates the predictive ability of the Orpington Prognostic Scale, administered within 72 hours of stroke onset, in determining discharge destination and outcomes from a hyperacute stroke unit.

Methods:

Prospective data were collected from 219 patients with confirmed diagnosis of stroke admitted to a hyperacute stroke unit. Initial Orpington Prognostic Scale scores were compared to discharge destination at 72 hours. The predictive ability of the scale was analysed using logistic regression and multivariate analysis.

Results:

A low score (<3.2) on the Orpington Prognostic Scale had a high positive predictive value (88.63%) for discharge home, while a high score (>3.2) had a high positive predictive value for further inpatient management (98.39%). The scale showed good predictive ability (odds ratio 27.691, 95% CI 9.852–77.825) for outcome after admission to the hyperacute stroke unit. This was independent of age, gender, type and site of stroke, previous social support and co-morbidity.

Conclusions:

The Orpington Prognostic Scale could be a valuable tool for predicting discharge destination from a hyperacute stroke unit by early identification of rehabilitation needs 72 hours after stroke following the initial screening. Patients with low scores are highly likely to go home with or without support/therapy, whereas high scorers will require further input in an inpatient setting.
Nose to the grindstone: The hidden dangers of long-term oxygen therapy
Authors: Luk Edwin
Published: November 2015

This case report describes an unusual complication of a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease using long-term oxygen therapy and discusses the importance of regular education and surveillance of patients when prescribing this treatment modality.
Curbing the winter killer
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: November 2015

As flu season returns, Mark Greener looks at the latest research on the virus and how to stop it
Nutrition education needed for all
Authors: Gordon Harriet , Best Carolyn , Summers Jill
Published: November 2015

An audit on supplements provides food for thought, write Harriet Gordon, Carolyn Best and Jill Summers
Introducing Virtue
Authors: Bawden Matt
Published: November 2015

In a new monthly series of best practice articles exploring character education, expert Matt Bawden asks what aspects of character should be central to our education system and details a new DfE-backed pilot project to teach character through the curriculum