bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance evaluation of water-swelling and oil-swelling elastomers
Authors: Qamar Sayyad Zahid , Pervez Tasneem , Akhtar Maaz
Published: October 2015

Swelling elastomers are special polymers that increase in volume when exposed to water or oil. They have been successfully deployed in oil and gas wells for isolation of water-producing zones, partial replacement of cementing, slimming down of wells, and so on. Performance appraisal and design modifications cannot be attempted without knowledge of material response under specific field conditions. Results from an experimental investigation are presented here about the behavior of two commercial elastomers, one water swelling and one oil swelling. Of the one-month total testing time, one set of samples (for each elastomer type) was tested under acid for one day, and the other set without any acid exposure. Readings were taken at different stages of swelling to record the variation in volume, thickness, and hardness of elastomer samples. Test parameters were set to match existing conditions in a regional oil well. These results can be used to assess performance of elastomers under given well conditions and for modeling and simulation of seal behavior.
Knowing the midwife before delivery reduces the prevalence of caesarean section on demand in a group of second time mothers with a complicated first delivery
Authors: Gaudernack Lise C , Egeland Thore , Voldner Nanna
Published: October 2015

Caesarean section (CS) on maternal request is increasing. There is a need to understand why, and find measures to help women give birth vaginally. The purpose of this study was to compare the rate of complications in the first birth of 129 second time mothers wanting caesarean section with the rate of complications in the general population; to determine how many changed their mind and wanted to give birth vaginally when given the opportunity to know their midwife in advance; and to examine whether there were any differences in the prevalence of health problems and labour complications between the known midwife group and those maintaining their wish for a CS . A quantitative study based on data from The Medical Birth Registry and from medical records was carried out. The findings show that 129 women had experienced significantly more complications than the general population during their first birth. Among the 48 women joining the ‘known midwife group’, 81% gave birth vaginally. The 81 women maintaining a demand for CS significantly more often had a health problem and fear of childbirth before their second pregnancy and were delivered by elective CS in their first pregnancy. Our conclusion is that interventions such as the ‘known midwife project’ help some women with a wish for a CS to give birth vaginally.
The meaning of significant others’ encounter with the ambulance clinicians in a non-emergency care context
Authors: Rantala Andreas , Ekwall Anna , Forsberg Anna
Published: October 2015

The ambulance service is often summoned by a significant other. Therefore the ambulance clinician is expected to establish a trusting relationship with her/him and not focus solely on the patient. The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of significant others’ encounter with ambulance clinicians in a non-emergency ambulance care context, where patients were triaged to a level of care below that of the Accident and Emergency Department. The design was inductive. We used the phenomenological hermeneutic method developed by Lindseth and Norberg. Eleven significant others were interviewed using an open-ended method. A structural analysis resulted in a total of seven themes, covering the meaning of being de-burdened or the absence of de-burdening. When de-burdened, the significant other was empowered, irrespective of the outcome of the medical assessment and triage process. In the absence of de-burdening, the significant other felt inferior, petty, de-powered and not taken seriously by the ambulance clinicians. The majority of ambulance assignments are considered non-emergency care. The ambulance clinicians are the first to encounter significant others in these situations and therefore have a huge obligation to understand and handle their basic needs.
Implications of Changes in Family Structure and Composition for the Psychological Well-Being of Filipino Women in Middle and Later Years
Authors: Chen Feinian , Bao Luoman , Shattuck Rachel M. , Borja Judith B. , Gultiano Socorro
Published: October 2015

The health implications of multigenerational coresidence for older adults is a well-researched topic in the aging literature. Much less is known of its impact for women in midlife. We used data from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Study (2002, 2005, 2007, and 2012) to study the influence of transitions in multigenerational household composition on depressive symptoms for women in midlife transitioning into old age. Our initial analysis showed little effect when we use the conventional classification of nuclear versus extended family and transition in and out of extended family. When we described shifts in the family environment by compositional changes, that is, change in the presence and absence of particular family members, we found significant association between depressive symptoms and two types of role transitions: the loss of a spouse in the household and the entry and exit of grandchildren in the household.
Reciprocal Effects Between Health and Social Support in Older Adults’ Relationships With Their Children and Friends
Authors: Ha Jung-Hwa , Kahng Sang Kyoung , Choi Namkee
Published: October 2015

This study examined the longitudinal reciprocal effects between health and social support in older adults’ relationships with their children and friends. Data are from the 2006 and 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study ( N = 3,760). We focused on three specific aspects of social support: frequency of contact, positive interactions, and negative interactions. We used autoregressive cross-lagged models to examine the bidirectional effects between social support and health. When the bidirectional effects between health and social support were simultaneously examined, the longitudinal effect of social support on health was not significant. In contrast, older adults’ poor health was associated with decreased contact and decreased positive interactions with friends as well as with increased negative interactions with their adult children and friends. The findings suggest that older adults’ poor health has a negative impact on their social relationships and that such effect surpasses the impact of social relationships on health.
Lateral Hypothalamic Stimulation Reduces Hyperalgesia Through Spinally Descending Orexin-A Neurons in Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Wardach Jacob , Wagner Monica , Jeong Younhee , Holden Janean E.
Published: October 2015

No evidence to date shows that lateral hypothalamic (LH) stimulation produces orexin-A-mediated antinociception in the spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) in a model of neuropathic pain. We conducted experiments to examine the effect of orexin-A-mediated LH stimulation in female rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI) on thermal hyperalgesia. Rats receiving carbachol into the LH demonstrated antinociception on both the left CCI and right nonligated paws ( p < .05). Rats were given carbachol in the LH followed by intrathecal injection of the orexin-1 (OX1) receptor antagonist SB-334867, which blocked LH-induced antinociception compared with control groups ( p < .05) in the left paw, but not in the right paw. These findings support the hypothesis that LH stimulation produces antinociception in rats with thermal hyperalgesia from neuropathic pain via an orexin-A connection between the LH and the SCDH. Identification of this pathway may lead to studies using orexins to manage clinical pain.
Recognizing creativity in the music classroom
Authors: Kokotsaki Dimitra , Newton Douglas P.
Published: October 2015

This study examined trainee music teachers’ judgements of the musical creativity of secondary age students. Nine pieces of music composed by Year 8 students (13 years of age) were evaluated by 17 postgraduate, trainee teachers. These musical pieces were sorted into a diamond-shaped formation according to how creative they were perceived to be with the most creative pieces placed at the top and the least creative ones placed at the bottom of the diamond. This approach helped the trainee teachers achieve some agreement in their evaluation of the students’ creativity. As well as a practical approach to recognizing musical creativity, the analysis of the trainees’ responses led to the identification of some attributes, such as representing the stimulus idea well and making imaginative use of musical elements and musical devices, which can help teachers to recognize, evaluate and promote children’s creative responses in music.
Bridging the Gap between Orthodoxy and Orthopraxis: The Catholic Church’s Concern for Migrants
Authors: Alva Reginald
Published: October 2015

Migration is a global phenomenon. An essential part of the mission of the Catholic Church is to love Christ particularly in the poor and the weak, which includes migrants. The Magisterium of the Church has consistently stressed reaching out to migrants. However, issuing documents would mean nothing if Christians do not implement them in letter and spirit. Christian charity would be meaningless if it remains only as a part of orthodoxy without orthopraxis. The phenomenal rise in global migration has created unfavorable conditions for many migrants. The Church being an ‘expert in humanity’ has a great task to reach out to the least in the society.1 In this article, we shall examine the role of the Catholic Church in bridging the gap between the orthodoxy and orthopraxis in their mission for migrants. We shall base our study on the documents of the Church and actual cases of migrant ministry in the Church.
Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors in Chinese Jing compared with Mulao populations
Authors: Xie Rui-Bin , Liao Pei-Juan , Yin Rui-Xing , Hu Xi-Jiang , Huang Jian , Wei Dai-Xun , Li Hui , Huang Feng , Yao Li-Mei , Pan Shang-Ling , Yang De-Zhai , Lin Wei-Xiong
Published: October 2015

Objective

* These authors contributed equally to this work. At present, they work at the Hezhou People’s Hospital, Hezhou, China. To retrospectively compare differences in the prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors between the Chinese Jing and Mulao populations.

Methods

Subjects of Jing and Mulao ethnicities were surveyed using stratified randomized sampling. Demography, diet and lifestyle data were collected using standardized questionnaires. Several anthropometric parameters, blood pressure (BP) levels and serum lipid concentrations were obtained.

Results

Data from 915 Jing and 911 Mulao subjects aged ≥35 years were included. Diastolic BP levels and prevalence of hypertension were lower, but prevalence of isolated systolic hypertension was higher, in the Jing compared with the Mulao population. Prevalence of hypertension in the age 60–69 years, body mass index (BMI) > 24 kg/m2, and smoker subgroups was lower in the Jing compared with the Mulao populations. Prevalence of hypertension correlated with age, cigarette smoking, triglyceride level, waist circumference, sodium intake and total dietary fibre in the Jing population; hypertension prevalence also correlated with age, triglyceride level, BMI, total fat, sodium intake and total dietary fibre in the Mulao population (unconditional logistic regression analyses).

Conclusions

Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors were different between the two ethnic minorities, which might result from the combined effects of differences in their geographic, dietary, lifestyle, and genetic backgrounds.
Risk factors for breast cancer in women residing in urban and rural areas of eastern China
Authors: Wang Feng , Yu LiXiang , Wang Fei , Liu LiYuan , Guo MingMing , Gao DeZong , Zhang Qiang , Li YuYang , Li Liang , Fu QinYe , Yu ZhiGang
Published: October 2015

Objective

To investigate breast cancer risk factors in Chinese women residing in urban and rural areas of eastern China using a large-scale cross-sectional survey.

Methods

In this multistage, stratified cluster sampling epidemiological survey, information on demographic characteristics, diet and lifestyle variables were gathered using a carefully designed questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and subgroup analyses of the data were performed, including separate analyses of data from women residing in urban and rural areas.

Results

A total of 122 058 women were included in the survey. Age, body mass index, number of miscarriages, family history of breast cancer and menopausal status were found to be risk factors for breast cancer, while the consumption of soya bean products was a protective factor. Among women residing in urban areas, high or moderate intake of soya bean products and red meat were protective factors. Among women residing in rural areas, obesity and a high intake of milk were identified as risk factors for breast cancer, while a moderate intake of soya bean products was a protective factor.

Conclusions

This type of data is crucial for understanding the risk factors for breast cancer and could facilitate the development and targeting of effective intervention strategies, with the ultimate aim of breast cancer prevention.
Development of performance indicators for municipal solid waste management (PIMS): A review
Authors: Sanjeevi V , Shahabudeen P
Published: October 2015

The aim of this paper is to review papers on municipal solid waste management (SWM) systems, especially on performance indicators (PIs), and suggest practical methods to manage the same by administrators. Worldwide, about 4 billion metric tons of solid waste (SW) is generated annually; the management of SW across cities is increasingly getting more complex and the funds available for providing service to citizens are shrinking. Analysis of the non-technical research papers shows that focus areas on SW can be grouped into 18 types, one being PIs. Historically, PIs for municipal SWM (PIMS) commenced with the publication of guidelines by various government agencies, starting in 1969. This was followed by a few benchmarking studies, commencing in 1998, by various international institutions. Many published comparative studies also disseminated good practices across the cities. From the 1990s onwards, research work started defining PIMS. These initiatives by various researchers took multiple dimensions and are reviewed in this paper. In almost all studies, the PIMS is measured in terms of investment decisions, public acceptance levels, social participation and environmental needs. The multiple indicators are complex, however, and managers of cities need simple tools to use. To make it simple, five-factor PIs are arrived at, considering simplicity and covering all the factors. A research agenda is outlined for future directions in the areas of cost reduction, citizens’ services, citizen involvement and environmental impact.
How Cutbacks and Job Satisfaction Are Related: The Role of Top-Level Public Managers’ Autonomy
Authors: van der Voet Joris , Van de Walle Steven
Published: October 2015

Many studies on cutback management have suggested that cutbacks may have negative consequences for employee well-being in the public sector. However, the relationship between cutbacks and the work-related attitudes of top-level managers has received little attention. In this study, we assess the relationships between five commonly used cutback measures and the job satisfaction of top-level public managers in 12 European countries. We propose and test a model in which autonomy serves as an explanatory variable for the relationship between cutbacks and job satisfaction. The results indicate that cutback measures have little direct effect on the job satisfaction of managers. However, as cutback measures are related negatively to the perceived managerial autonomy of public managers and positively to the degree in which politicians interfere in the affairs of managers, autonomy may function as a mechanism to explain decreased job satisfaction as a result of cutback implementation.
Mental Health Literacy in Emerging Adults in a University Setting: Distinctions Between Symptom Awareness and Appraisal
Authors: Gagnon Michelle M. , Gelinas Bethany L. , Friesen Lindsay N.
Published: October 2015

Despite the high prevalence of mental health concerns in university populations, students are unlikely to seek formal help. The current study examined help-seeking behaviors among emerging adults in a university setting using a mental health literacy framework. Responses from 122 university undergraduates were examined. Students ranged in age from 17 to 25 years ( M = 20.67 years, SD = 2.03 years). Quantitative data were collected to determine students’ knowledge and use of campus services and to compare students’ awareness and appraisal of common mental health symptoms. Narrative data were collected to identify the key symptoms that are appraised to be “early warning signs” versus “early action signs,” and to identify barriers and facilitators to help-seeking. Mental health symptoms were more likely to be assessed as warning signs than signs warranting action. Lack of knowledge and stigma were barriers to help-seeking, while urging from family and friends, increased knowledge, and confidentiality were identified as facilitators to help-seeking. Emerging adults in a university setting tend to make distinctions between warning and action signs. Although demonstrating good awareness of the signs of declining mental health, students may respond reactively rather than proactively to symptoms.
Acute high-level toluene exposure decreases hippocampal neurogenesis in rats
Authors: Yoon Jin-ha , Seo Heung-Sik , Lee Jinsoo , Moon Changjong , Lee Kyuhong
Published: October 2015

Toluene is an organic solvent that is used in various industrial applications. Despite its usefulness, toluene has toxic effects on the brain and is a substance that is commonly abused. Toluene causes behavioral and functional abnormalities such as decreased memory capacity, cognitive impairment, and depression-like symptoms. However, the target sites and toxic mechanisms of inhaled toluene in the brain are poorly understood. In this study, we subjected Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats to acute high-level toluene exposure (7000 ppm) to investigate its neuronal toxicity, and in particular, its effect on neurogenesis in the hippocampus. In order to assay the effects of inhaled toluene on hippocampal neurogenesis, we measured the levels of neurogenesis markers Ki-67 and doublecortin (DCX) in the hippocampus 1, 2, 5, and 8 days after cessation of toluene exposure. In addition to assaying clinical signs, body weight, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, the liver, lungs, and kidneys were subjected to histopathological examination to investigate the toxic effects of high-level toluene exposure. Although abnormal neurological signs were observed after toluene exposure, these disappeared within 24 h and no toluene-related toxicological effects were observed in the liver, lungs, or kidneys. The animals exposed to toluene showed significantly decreased hippocampal neurogenesis, which persisted until the 8th and final day of measurement. Thus, acute high-level toluene exposure inhibited hippocampal neurogenesis and produced transient abnormal neurological signs, but did not produce toxicity in the other organs studied.
The toxicological effects of bisphenol A and octylphenol on the reproductive system of prepubertal male rats
Authors: Ahbab Müfide Aydoğan , Barlas Nurhayat , Karabulut Gözde
Published: October 2015

The aim of the present study was to assess and compare the individual adverse effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and octylphenol (OP) on the reproductive system of prepubertal male rats. Rats were exposed to BPA and OP at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg/day, by gavage, for 90 days. At the end of the study, the testes, epididymis, prostate gland, and seminal vesicle were removed and examined histopathologically. Also, 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase expressions were analyzed and serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were measured. Sperm head count of caput epididymis was performed using a hemocytometer. Seminiferous and epididymal round tubules were evaluated for tubule diameter, lumen diameter, and height of tubule epithelium. There were significant increases in relative testes weights in BPA125, OP125, and OP250 groups compared with the control. Atrophic tubules, pyknotic tubules, combined tubules, congestion, vacuolization of Sertoli cell, cell debris in the lumen, tubules without sperm, and degeneration of tubules were noted in the tissue specimens obtained from the treatment groups compared with the control group. Sperm head counts were decreased in all treatment groups except for the low-dose BPA group. Testosterone (T) levels decreased in the BPA and high-dose OP treatment groups. LH levels increased in BPA treatment groups and the low-dose OP treatment group and decreased in the high-dose OP group. Epithelial height of high-dose BPA and OP treatment groups increased compared with the control group. Furthermore tubular height of low-dose BPA and high-dose OP groups increased with respect to control levels. In the OP250 treatment group, thyroxine hormone level was increased compared to other groups. Also, in the OP125 treatment group, triiodothyronine hormone level was increased compared with other groups.

The results of this study showed that BPA and OP affect the steroidogenic enzyme expression and T production in Leydig cells. In conclusion, BPA and OP have adverse effects on the male reproductive system of prepubertal rats.
Les effets de l’extension verticale de gamme vers le bas sur la confiance dans la marque et l’attachement à la marque
Authors: Magnoni Fanny
Published: October 2015

Cette recherche utilise le cadre théorique de la relation marque–consommateur pour apporter un éclairage nouveau sur les répercussions sur la marque de l’extension verticale de gamme vers le bas. Les résultats de deux expérimentations montrent que plus le fit-qualité entre l’extension vers le bas et la marque est faible d’une part, et plus le consommateur s’identifie à la marque d’autre part, plus la confiance dans la marque et l’attachement à la marque se détériorent. La familiarité objective du consommateur avec la marque et le caractère prestigieux du concept de marque modèrent ces effets. Enfin, l’évolution de la confiance engendrée par l’extension influence l’évolution de l’attachement.
Morphology and rheological behavior of poly(butylene terephthalate)/polypropylene blends filled by two types of organoclays
Authors: Hajibaba Armin , Masoomi Mahmood , Nazockdast Hossein
Published: October 2015

The present research investigates the morphology and rheological behavior of poly(butylene terephthalate)/polypropylene (PBT/PP) blends containing hydrophilic and hydrophobic organoclays. The distribution of nanoclays and morphology of nanocomposites were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission and scanning electron microscopies. The XRD patterns show that the level of intercalation structure in nanocomposites reinforced by hydrophilic nanoclay is significantly higher than nanocomposites filled by hydrophobic one. According to morphological analysis, both types of nanocomposites indicate the reduction of droplet size, whereas hydrophilic nanoparticles illustrate more compatibilization efficiency than hydrophobic. According to transmission electron microscopy, hydrophilic nanoclays are mainly localized in the PBT matrix and at the interface, whereas hydrophobic nanoparticles are confined in the PP-dispersed phase and at the interface. From the rheological point of view, the results show that nanocomposites with hydrophilic nanoclay show stronger pseudoplasticity, higher viscosity, and more elasticity than nanocomposites with the hydrophobic one. The localization of hydrophilic organoclay in the PBT matrix aids to finer morphology of the PBT/PP blend, whereas hydrophobic one resists the breakup of droplets by confinement in dispersed phase.
Crystallization behavior of polypropylene/silver nanocomposites using polyethylene glycol as reducing agent and interface modifier
Authors: Camacho Pablo H , Morales-Cepeda Ana B , Salas-Papayanopolos Homero , Bautista Jesús E , Castro Carlos , Lozano Tomas , Sanchez-Valdes Saúl , Lafleur Pierre G
Published: October 2015

In this work, isotactic polypropylene (iPP) nanocomposites were prepared containing silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) with a novel and easy method, using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as reducing agent and surface modifier. Ag-NPs were prepared using different amounts in weight of silver nitrate into PEG to induce the formation of Ag-NPs. PP/Ag nano compounds were prepared by melt blend method: single-screw extruder and internal Brabender mixer. The effects of Ag-NPs and PEG on the crystallization, morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties were evaluated. Ag-NPs with a particle size of 80 nm and typical growth of the β-form in iPP were observed. The presence of PEG in samples of PP/Ag-NPs was detected by infrared spectrometry and the peak characteristic of Ag-NPs by ultraviolet–visible analysis. X-Ray diffraction patterns and differential scanning calorimetry thermograms showed the β-phase formation in both of the dispersion methods, but Brabender mixer showed higher percentages of crystallinity (31% of β-phase). The elongation at break was increased and it was directly dependent on the relative amount of crystalline β-phase. PEG is an excellent precursor to get Ag-NPs and a good interface modifier of iPP.
Halogenated methacrylate-based aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanocomposites
Authors: Wasi Kathikar Abdul , Safiullah Sakvai Mohammed , Basha Kottur Anver
Published: October 2015

The aim of the work is to prepare the halogenated methacrylate-based polymer nano-aluminum oxide (Al2O3) composites and to study the effect of incorporated nano-Al2O3 on morphological and thermal studies. A functional 2,4,6-tribromophenyl methacrylate- co-glycidyl methacrylate copolymer microspheres (poly(TBPMA- co-GMA); pTG) by emulsion solvent evaporation techniques, whereas (2,4,6-tribromophenyl methacrylate- co-glycidyl methacrylate)-Al2O3 nanocomposites (pTG-Al2O3 nanocomposites) were prepared by solution mixing techniques. The pTG and its Al2O3 nanocomposites were structurally characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Thermal studies of pTG and its Al2O3 nanocomposites were carried out by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry . The molecular weight of the pTG was determined by gel permeation chromatography. The size distribution and morphology of the pTG and its Al2O3 nanocomposites were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FTIR results reveal that there is no significant interaction between the polymer matrix and Al2O3 nanoparticle. The significant increase in the initial decomposition temperature and glass transition temperature of pTG-Al2O3 nanocomposites compared to its polymer was due to the incorporation of nano-Al2O3 in the polymer matrix. The SEM observation provides the information about the morphological changes that arise in polymer matrix due to the incorporation of nano-Al2O3.
Online Coping After Negative Life Events
Authors: van Ingen Erik , Utz Sonja , Toepoel Vera
Published: October 2015

This article explores how individuals use online coping strategies after experiencing a negative life event. Many studies have shown that online coping is of rising importance. However, these studies have not provided all pieces of the puzzle because they tend to focus on one particular online venue (e.g., an online support group or social network site [SNS]) and on a limited number of coping strategies. This article aims to provide a more complete picture, by simultaneously examining multiple online and off-line coping strategies, using a survey administered to a representative sample of the 16+ population of the Netherlands. Furthermore, we analyze what kind of Internet activities are related to online coping and whether online coping is associated with well-being. Some 57% of our sample mentioned some form of online coping. Using the Internet for mental disengagement, active coping and planning were the most reported online coping strategies, whereas strategies aimed at emotional coping were reported less frequently. Online coping encompassed several activities: online gaming, which was associated with mental disengagement; searching for information, which was associated with problem-focused coping; and SNS and online support groups, which were associated with mental disengagement, problem-focused coping, and socioemotional coping. Finally, we examined the correlations between online coping and well-being. Controlling for off-line coping, we found online mental disengagement and online socioemotional coping to be inversely related to life satisfaction, self-esteem, and optimism, whereas correlations between online problem-focused coping and well-being were nonsignificant. The implications of these findings are discussed.
How Dangerous Are Virtual Worlds Really? A Research Note on the Statecraft Simulation Debate
Authors: Saiya Nilay
Published: October 2015

This brief article weighs in on a pedagogical debate concerning the didactic usefulness of an online international relations computer simulation called Statecraft. In a 2014 article, Gustavo Carvalho, a teaching assistant at the University of Toronto, claimed, based on the results of a survey he administered to an international relations class that used Statecraft, that the simulation had little to offer students as a teaching tool. In a rebuttal, Statecraft creator Jonathan Keller took Carvalho to task for not employing the simulation properly, which biased his results. While Carvalho only presented results for one class, the present analysis reports on survey responses of students over six different classes which used Statecraft from 2013 to 2014. The results call into question Carvalho’s findings and suggest that the context and curriculum matter as much as the simulation itself when judging the pedagogical value of computer-mediated learning tools.
Probable Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus With the Use of High-Dose Continuous Infusion Ceftazidime
Authors: Collins Reagan D. , Tverdek Frank P. , Bruno Jeffrey J. , Coyle Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2015

Multidrug resistant (MDR) bacterial infections are a major concern of health care providers due to their increasing incidence and associated mortality. In some cases, few or no antibiotics have preserved activity. Beta-lactam administration via continuous infusion can optimize time over minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). In some cases, use of high-dose continuous infusion (HDCI) may be necessary to achieve serum levels in excess of nonsusceptible MIC values. The use of HDCI beta-lactams is not without risk, specifically neurotoxic adverse effects, which appear dose related. We describe a 64-year-old male who experienced myoclonus and nonconvulsive status epilepticus while receiving HDCI ceftazidime for treatment of multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia. This report serves as a cautionary example of the potential toxicities associated with HDCI beta-lactams and supports the importance of risk–benefit analysis prior to and during treatment. Additionally, the use of serum drug level monitoring may be necessary to better prevent or predict toxicity.
A coordinated European Union minimum wage policy?
Authors: Fernández-Macías Enrique , Vacas-Soriano Carlos
Published: October 2015

This article contributes to the growing debate on minimum wage coordination at European Union (EU) level. We consider the introduction of a hypothetical EU-wide minimum set at 60 percent of the median wage in each European country; we compare the diverse minimum wage-setting systems across Europe and discuss how they could be affected by such policy. The institutional impact of this European common threshold would be larger in those countries where minimum wages are currently collectively agreed by social partners than in those countries where they are set by statutory regulation. But according to our statistical analysis, such EU-wide minimum wage would affect a larger proportion of the workforce in those countries with statutory minimum wages, since they tend to have a larger low-paid segment of employment.
Testing the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire With Korean Children in Institutionalized Care
Authors: Kim Youngmi , Kim Kyeongmo , Lee Shinhye
Published: October 2015

Purpose:

We tested the reliability and validity of the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Children (SEQ-C) in a sample of children living in orphanages in South Korea.

Methods:

Our study sample consisted of 334 children aged 13–18 obtained using a convenience sampling method. We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to identify the factor structure of the 24 self-efficacy items and used a Pearson correlation to explore the scale’s validity.

Results:

The findings show the SEQ-C is a reliable scale with a three-factor model measuring social, academic, and emotional self-efficacy. Construct validity was also supported by finding a significant negative correlation between self-efficacy and depression. Conclusions: Our study informs social workers and researchers that the SEQ-C measure is a useful tool for practical evaluation and intervention that can be used for children with disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds in South Korea.
Assessment of Quality for Inclusive Programs in Greek Preschool Classrooms
Authors: Fyssa Aristea , Vlachou Anastasia
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the quality of the practices that Greek teachers use to support the inclusion of children with disabilities in general preschools. Fifty-two preschool units for children between 4 and 6 years of age participated in this study. Data were collected through systematic observation with the use of the Inclusive Classroom Profile (ICP). Given that the ICP was devised and field tested in the United Kingdom, its applicability to Greece was subsequently explored. Results from descriptive statistics revealed the existence of mainly poor-quality practices. Analysis of the reliability of the scale showed high interrater agreement, while exploration of its structural validity showed that quality was detected as a unidimensional construct consisting of nine items. This article discusses the issue of preschool inclusion quality in Greece, while it contributes to the emergent research on the ICP in relation to its validation in different cultures.
The evolution of social play by learning to cooperate
Authors: Durand Sabine , Schank Jeffrey C
Published: October 2015

Social play is common in mammals but its adaptive significance is not well understood. A commonly held hypothesis is that social play allows juveniles to learn skills and rules for cooperation as adults. On this view, the adaptive benefit of social play derives from the benefits of cooperation as adults. However, cooperation is only beneficial if it is used in populations of predominantly cooperators; otherwise, it is a costly strategy. We investigated the latter problem by modeling the link between social play and subsequent adult cooperation using an agent-based model. In our model, agents had a play gene with allelic social play states (i.e., play or not play). Juveniles with a play gene learned to cooperate by successfully engaging in social play with another juvenile agent with a play gene. As adults, agents played the stag hunt game with other adults to obtain resources for reproduction. Those that learned to cooperate by playing as juveniles cooperated in the stag hunt game. When agents aggregated into small groups, we found that social play could evolve by facilitating the learning of cooperation. Our theoretical results also show that social play is a novel mechanism for the indirect evolution of cooperation.
Do the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form (AQ-S) Primarily Reflect General ASD Traits or Specific ASD Traits? A Bi-Factor Analysis
Authors: Murray Aja Louise , McKenzie Karen , Kuenssberg Renate , Booth Tom
Published: October 2015

In the current study, we fit confirmatory bi-factor models to the items of the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form (AQ-S) in order to assess the extents to which the items of each reflect general versus specific factors. The models were fit in a combined sample of individuals with and without a clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders. Results indicated that, with the exception of the Attention to Details factor in the AQ and the Numbers/Patterns factors in the AQ-S, items primarily reflected a general factor. This suggests that when attempting to estimate an association between a specific symptom measured by the AQ or AQ-S and some criterion, associations will be confounded by the general factor. To resolve this, we recommend using a bi-factor measurement model or factor scores from a bi-factor measurement whenever hypotheses about specific symptoms are being assessed.
Motivation to Participate in an Online Citizen Science Game
Authors: Curtis Vickie
Published: October 2015

Online citizen science projects have the potential to engage thousands of participants with scientific research. A small number of projects such as Foldit use an online computer game format. Motivation to participate in Foldit was investigated in a group of 37 players using an online survey, semistructured interviews, and participant observation. Results suggest that contributing to scientific research and an interest in science were among the most important motivations for participation. Interaction with others within the community of participants and the intellectual challenge of the game were also key for the continuing involvement of this group of regular contributors.
Parent Perceptions About Autism Spectrum Disorder Influence Treatment Choices
Authors: Mire Sarah S. , Gealy Whitney , Kubiszyn Tom , Burridge Andrea Backscheider , Goin-Kochel Robin P.
Published: October 2015

Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) must identify, select, and even implement treatments. Child age, cognitive functioning, ASD symptoms, family income, parent education, and cultural background, all may influence treatment selection. Parents’ perceptions about ASD also may contribute. We explored whether parents’ perceptions of ASD, along with family- and child-specific characteristics, predicted use of various ASD treatment categories. Sixty-eight families from the Simons Simplex Collection completed the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R). Logistic regression results indicated that when parent perceptions predicted use of a treatment category, relative contribution of perceptions was somewhat stronger than child- and family-specific factors (i.e., demographics, functioning). Moreover, predictive factors differed between treatment categories. Overall, treatment category use was influenced by parents’ perceptions of control over ASD treatment, behaviors perceived to be related to ASD, and beliefs about chronicity of the diagnosis. These findings may contribute to broader understanding of parents’ ASD treatment selection and enhance professionals’ ability to guide families’ decision-making.
Feline coronavirus quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction on effusion samples in cats with and without feline infectious peritonitis
Authors: Longstaff Louise , Porter Emily , Crossley Victoria J , Hayhow Sophie E , Helps Christopher R , Tasker Séverine
Published: October 2015

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine whether feline coronavirus (FCoV) RNA in effusion samples can be used as a diagnostic marker of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP); and in FCoV RNA-positive samples to examine amino acid codons in the FCoV spike protein at positions 1058 and 1060 where leucine and alanine, respectively, have been associated with systemic or virulent (FIP) FCoV infection.

Methods

Total RNA was extracted from effusion samples from 20 cats with confirmed FIP and 23 cats with other diseases. Feline coronavirus RNA was detected using a reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay (qRT-PCR), and positive samples underwent pyrosequencing of position 1058 with or without Sanger sequencing of position 1060 in the FCoV spike protein.

Results

Seventeen (85%) of the effusion samples from 20 cats with FIP were positive for FCoV RNA, whereas none of the 23 cats with other diseases were positive. Pyrosequencing of the 17 FCoV-positive samples showed that 11 (65%) of the cats had leucine and two (12%) had methionine at position 1058. Of the latter two samples with methionine, one had alanine at position 1060.

Conclusions and relevance

A positive FCoV qRT-PCR result on effusions appears specific for FIP and may be a useful diagnostic marker for FIP in cats with effusions. The majority of FCoVs contained amino acid changes previously associated with systemic spread or virulence (FIP) of the virus.
Hobnail Hemangioma (Superficial Hemosiderotic Lymphovascular Malformation) in Children
Authors: AbuHilal Mohn’d , Breslavet Max , Ho Nhung , Taylor Glenn , Pope Elena
Published: October 2015

Background:

Hobnail hemangioma is a small benign vascular malformation of the superficial and mid-dermis with variable clinical presentation.

Objectives:

To review the clinical characteristics of hobnail hemangioma in pediatric patients.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review performed of all histopathologically confirmed cases of hobnail hemangioma from May 2000 to December 2014. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and results of immunohistochemical staining were collected.

Results:

Four male and 2 female patients identified. Congenital lesions were reported in 3 cases. The most common anatomic location was the extremities. Treatment options included observation and surgical excision.

Conclusions:

Hobnail hemangioma is an uncommon benign vascular malformation. Due to its benign nature, treatment is not required. If treatment is indicated, complete surgical excision appears to be the most effective option.
When do candidates attack in election campaigns? Exploring the determinants of negative candidate messages in German televised debates
Authors: Maier Jürgen , Jansen Carolin
Published: October 2015

Content analyses of televised debates indicate that candidates often attack each other. Unfortunately, we know very little about when candidates go negative. Furthermore, most research is focusing on the United States. This paper contributes in several ways to our understanding of when candidates choose negative messages. First, we identify some previously unnoticed factors and assign them to three broad categories: a candidate’s (personal and political) profile, the debate format, and the strategic context of a debate. Second, we use a unique data set based on all German televised debates. Third, we run multivariate models to investigate which variables are responsible for the use of attacks. Our results indicate that attacks are very popular. Candidates attack if they belong to the opposition, if they compete at the national level, and if they are behind in the polls. In addition, personality can affect the use of attacks.
To what extent do learners benefit from indirect written corrective feedback? A study targeting learners of different proficiency and heritage language status
Authors: Park Eun Sung , Song Sunhee , Shin Yu Kyoung
Published: October 2015

Should teachers spend hours correcting students’ errors, or should they simply underline the errors, leaving it up to the students to self-correct them? The current study examines the utility of indirect feedback on learners’ written output. Journal entries from students enrolled in intact second language (L2) Korean classes ( n = 40) were collected and returned to the students with all of their errors underlined (indirect feedback). The students were then given class time to either identify the target of their errors, or to self-correct them. The results were compared across two proficiency levels (beginning vs. intermediate) and across learners’ prior language exposure/learning experiences (heritage language vs. non-heritage language learners). The results showed that the learners in general were able to self-correct more than a third of their errors, and that the non-heritage language learners were significantly better at perceiving their errors on orthography and particles. It was also found that the higher proficiency and non-heritage language learners were better able to self-correct their errors on particles. The current findings suggest that simply underlining the errors and asking students to self-correct them can be helpful, especially for certain ‘treatable’ errors, including those involving orthography and particles. The findings also highlight the importance of considering individual learner factors, such as the nature and length of their prior L2-learning experience, when providing indirect written feedback.
Cross-linguistic influence at the discourse–syntax interface: Insights from anaphora resolution in child second language learners of Italian
Authors: Kraš Tihana
Published: October 2015

This paper reports the results of an experimental study on the resolution of intra-sentential anaphora in Italian by two groups of 13–14-year-olds: monolingual native Italian speakers and highly proficient child second language (L2) learners of Italian whose native language is Croatian. In a picture selection task the participants were asked to identify antecedents of null and overt subject pronouns in ambiguous forward and backward anaphora sentences. Our assumption in the paper was that Italian and Croatian do not differ with respect to the antecedent biases of null and overt subject pronouns in the contexts under investigation. As predicted, the L2 learners expressed pragmatically appropriate antecedent preferences in all conditions. They even selected the pragmatically inappropriate subject antecedent for the overt pronoun less often than the native speakers, especially in backward anaphora. The L2 learners’ antecedent preferences closely mirror those established in previous research for their age-matched monolingual Croatian peers. We take this as evidence for our position that cross-linguistic influence is operative at the discourse–syntax influence in child L2 acquisition and that it might be the main cause of non-target-like behaviour of some groups of highly proficient bilinguals concerning certain properties pertaining to this interface.
The elastic mobility of business elites – Negotiating the ‘Home’ and ‘Away’ continuum
Authors: Fast Karin , Lindell Johan
Published: October 2015

This study sets out to provide an understanding of internationally mobile elites from a perspective that takes into account the social costs that come with being away from localized, everyday life. We show that mobile elites are often reluctant travellers and employ Bude and Dürrschmidt’s notion of ‘transclusion’ to understand the often-unrecognized ambivalence of mobile lifestyles. One way of coping with the existential dilemma of being away is to stay connected with family and friends through technologies of communication, which are deployed by the mobile elite under the regime of what Tomlinson calls ‘technologies of the hearth’. We arrive at the concept of ‘elastic mobility’, which highlights central push-and-pull processes in mobile lifestyles. The concept forwards a perspective on the social consequences of globalization that goes beyond contemporary ‘flow speak’.