bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
U.S. State Resident Big Five Personality and Work Satisfaction: The Importance of Neuroticism
Authors: McCann Stewart J. H.
Published: August 2017

Two studies determined relations between state resident Big Five personality scores and state work satisfaction for the 50 states in the United States. Study 1 and 2 personality profiles were based on responses of 619,397 residents to the 44-item Big Five Inventory. For Studies 1 and 2, state work satisfaction scores were respectively taken from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index based on 353,039 phone interviews in 2008 and on 353,564 in 2012. Higher neuroticism was associated with lower work satisfaction ( r = −.49, p < .001) in both studies despite negative recession impacts in Study 2. In Study 1, the robust relation persisted with state socioeconomic status, percent of White population identified in the census, urban population percent, unemployment rate, economic conservatism, income inequality, and political conservatism controlled. In Study 2, the relation persisted while controlling for peak-recession and end-of-recession unemployment rates, 2010-2011 GDP growth, and the other corresponding control variables of Study 1.
Exploratory Analyses of Risk Behaviors Among GLBT Youth Attending a Drop-In Center
Authors: Wilkerson J. Michael , Lawler Sylvia M. , Romijnders Kim A. , Armstead Amber B. , Bauldry Jessica ,   the Montrose Center
Published: August 2017

This exploratory study examines measures of one drop-in center’s efforts to improve health outcomes of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) youth by facilitating out-group secondary social ties. Hatch Youth, located in Houston, Texas, aims to increase self-esteem and decrease negative health outcomes by encouraging GLBT youth to be part of Houston’s greater GLBT community. Survey data ( N = 614) collected between October 2003 and April 2013 were entered into logistic regression models. Attending Hatch Youth for 6 or more months was associated with having a social group outside of school (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.07; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.33, 3.20]), being out to that social group (aOR = 2.34; 95% CI = [1.35, 4.03]), and interacting with the GLBT community outside of Hatch Youth (aOR = 2.33; 95% CI = [1.50, 3.54]), when referenced against youth attending less than 1 month. Having a good family relationship in the last 90 days (aOR = 2.48; 95% CI = [1.67, 3.70]) and having a social group outside of school (aOR = 2.57; 95% CI = [1.67, 3.97]) were associated with higher self-esteem. Higher self-esteem was associated with practicing safe sex (aOR = 1.86; 95% CI = [1.25, 2.75]) and not using street drugs (aOR = 0.45; 95% CI = [0.24, 0.83]). Interacting with the GLBT community outside of Hatch Youth was associated with practicing safe sex (aOR = 1.64; 95% CI = [1.12, 2.42]). Drop-in centers can strengthen secondary social ties among youth. Because questions remain about how drop-in centers can assist youth aging out of their programs to find other supportive secondary social ties, additional studies examining similar drop-in centers are needed.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia with Liver Herniation into the Pericardial Sac in a 30-Week Gestation Infant
Authors: Patel Nisha , Sollinger Christina , D’Angio Carl T , Vinocur Jeffrey M , Ackerman Kate G , Katzman Philip J
Published: August 2017

Anterior diaphragmatic defects with pericardial involvement are extremely rare and diagnostically challenging entities encountered perinatally. While a majority of diaphragmatic defects occur in isolation, others are associated with multiple defects forming a complex of syndromes such as Pentalogy of Cantrell. Liver herniation into the pericardial sac poses a particular challenge and can mimic a pericardial tumor on prenatal ultrasound, yielding a different management course. The following case is an unusual presentation of a 30-week gestation female with an anterior midline diaphragmatic defect with liver herniation mimicking as a pericardial tumor, diagnosed at time of autopsy. Postmortem studies also found multiple congenital anomalies including an atrioventricular septal defect and midline gumline defect suggesting at least a partial Pentalogy of Cantrell or variant. Early recognition and screening for associated anomalies are essential for management in this subset of patients.
The First Reported Case of Meckel–Gruber Syndrome Associated With Abnormal Karyotype Mosaic Trisomy 17
Authors: Cierna Zuzana , Janega Pavol , Grochal Frantisek , Ferianec Vladimir , Braxatorisova Tatiana , Strieskova Lucia , Malova Jana , Jungova Petra , Szemes Tomas
Published: August 2017

Meckel-Gruber syndrome (MKS) is a rare lethal autosomal recessive disorder with typical anomalies including encephalocele, multicystic renal dysplasia, congenital liver fibrosis, and polydactyly. MKS is caused by mutations of genes localized on different chromosomes. Karyotypes of published Meckel–Gruber syndrome cases are without any aberrations. We present a male fetus with meningoencephalocele, multicystic renal dysplasia, congenital liver fibrosis, and other anomalies. Standard cytogenetic examination of cultured fetal skin and muscle fibroblasts showed mosaic trisomy 17. Homozygous deletion in CC2D2A gene was found by Sanger sequencing. This is to our knowledge the first case of genetically confirmed Meckel–Gruber syndrome with incidental cofinding of mosaic trisomy 17. Abnormal karyotype does not exclude diagnosis of MKS with risk of recurrence 25% in next pregnancy. In the case of anomalies typical for Meckel–Gruber syndrome, genetic analysis is indicated.
ALOX15 Immunohistochemistry Aids in the Diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis on Pauci-eosinophilic Biopsies in Children
Authors: Hui Yiang , Chen Sonja , Lombardo Kara A. , Resnick Murray B. , Mangray Shamlal , Matoso Andres
Published: August 2017

Histologically, esophageal biopsies should have ≥15 intraepithelial eosinophils (IEEs) per high power field (HPF) to support a clinicopathologic diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Children with clinically apparent EoE may show pauci-eosinophilic biopsies due to patchy involvement. Immunostaining (Immunohistochemistry) for arachidonate-15 lipooxygenase (ALOX15) has been demonstrated to be a sensitive marker for EoE. We retrospectively assessed the expression of ALOX15 in 48 biopsies from 21 patients with established diagnosis of EoE and with tissue fragments below the threshold of 15 IEEs/HPF. Fragments were classified into pauci-eosinophilic and non-pauci-eosinophilic groups using cutoffs of 10 and 15 IEEs/HPF. Controls included patients with reflux and normal biopsies. Sixty-five (43.9%) fragments showed <10 IEEs/HPF and 83 (56.1%) showed ≥10 IEEs/HPF. Using a cutoff of 15 IEEs/HPF, 87 (58.7%) fragments showed <15 IEEs/HPF while 61 fragments (41.2%) had ≥15 IEEs/HPF. ALOX15 was positive in 53/65 (81.5%) of fragments with <10 IEEs/HPF versus 82/83 (98.8%) of fragments with ≥10 IEEs/HPF ( P < .001). For a cutoff of 15 IEEs/HPF, 75/87 (86.2%) of pauci-eosinophilic fragments were ALOX15-positive, while 60/61(98.4%) of biopsies meeting the threshold were positive ( P < .001). In 3/21 (14.3%) patients with EoE, all of the fragments (n = 7) were pauci-eosinophilic and all of them were positive for ALOX15. Two of 24 patients with reflux (one with 9 and one with 14 IEEs/HPF) were also positive. Fragments from normal controls (0 IEEs/HPF) were negative. Our results support the utility of ALOX15 immunohistochemistry in supporting the diagnosis of EoE in rare situations with strong clinical suspicion where no fragments reach 15 IEEs/HPF.
Popmarker: Identifying Phylogenetic Markers at the Population Level
Authors: Ke Huei-Mien , Yu Chun-Ping , Liu Yu-Ching , Tsai Isheng J
Published: August 2017

As phylogenomic approach becomes a common practice for constructing true bacterial phylogenies, it has become apparent that single molecular markers such as 16S ribosomal DNA often lead to misclassification of species. In this study, we present a program called Popmarker that uses the true species phylogeny and identifies a minimum set of molecular markers reflecting the bacterial evolution history and phylogenetic relationship at the resolution of populations. Popmarker ranks the proteome according to the correlation of whole species tree or subtree branch length against orthologous sequence distances. We demonstrate that 5 proteins of 2 top ranks achieve the same resolution as concatenation of 2203 single-copy orthologous genes and the right species classification as well as correct split of the 2 groups of Vibrio campbellii. The top-ranking genes selected by Popmarker are candidates that lead to speciation and are useful in distinguishing close related species in microbiome study.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Novel Approaches to Breast Reconstruction: Their Suitability for Tissue Engineering and Oncological Safety
Authors: O’Halloran Niamh , Courtney Donald , Kerin Michael J , Lowery Aoife J
Published: August 2017

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are rapidly becoming the gold standard cell source for tissue engineering strategies and hold great potential for novel breast reconstruction strategies. However, their use in patients with breast cancer is controversial and their oncological safety, particularly in relation to local disease recurrence, has been questioned. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies using ADSCs report conflicting data on their suitability for adipose tissue regeneration in patients with cancer. This review aims to provide an overview of the potential role for ADSCs in breast reconstruction and to examine the evidence relating to the oncologic safety of their use in patients with breast cancer.
Abnormalities of Dopamine D3Receptor Signaling in the Diseased Brain
Authors: Prieto G Aleph
Published: August 2017

Dopamine D3receptors (D3R) modulate neuronal activity in several brain regions including cortex, striatum, cerebellum, and hippocampus. A growing body of evidence suggests that aberrant D3R signaling contributes to multiple brain diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, schizophrenia, and addiction. In line with these findings, D3R has emerged as a potential target in the treatment of neurological disorders. However, the mechanisms underlying neuronal D3R signaling are poorly understood, either in healthy or diseased brain. Here, I review the molecular mechanisms involved in D3R signaling via monomeric D3R and heteromeric receptor complexes (e.g., D3R-D1R, D3R-D2R, D3R-A2aR, and D3R-D3nf). I focus on D3R signaling pathways that, according to recent reports, contribute to pathological brain states. In particular, I describe evidence on both quantitative (e.g., increased number or affinity) and qualitative (e.g., switched signaling) changes in D3R that has been associated with brain dysfunction. I conclude with a description of basic mechanisms that modulate D3R signaling such as desensitization, as disruption of these mechanisms may underlie pathological changes in D3R signaling. Because several lines of evidence support the idea that imbalances in D3R signaling alter neural function, a better understanding of downstream D3R pathways is likely to reveal novel therapeutic strategies toward dopamine-related brain disorders.
Does the rise of the Internet bring erosion of strong ties? Analyses of social media use and changes in core discussion networks
Authors: Vriens Eva , van Ingen Erik
Published: August 2017

We derive hypotheses from popular accounts of how use of social media affects our strong ties. Several authors have suggested that social media use erodes our strong ties by increasing the volume of social interactions and decreasing their depth. Using two-wave panel data representative of the Dutch population between 15 and 45 years, we examine changes in the core discussion networks (CDNs) of 5312 respondents (with 10,896 relations). Contradicting an erosion of strong ties, we found positive effects of social media use on CDN size, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Social media use was positively related to talking to CDN members in our cross-sectional model. Finally, we found that the CDNs of frequent social media users were more dynamic than those of less frequent users: they are more likely to both lose old and gain new ties. This suggests that Internet use is associated with more, and more dynamic, social interaction.
“I Shut the Door”: Interactions, tensions, and negotiations from a location-based social app
Authors: Fitzpatrick Colin , Birnholtz Jeremy
Published: August 2017

Location-based social apps leverage mobile phones to provide face-to-face (FtF) social opportunities for physically proximate individuals, such as finding nearby people to socialize, date, or hook up. Prior work on dating and hookup apps has focused mostly on profiles and user goals, but this leaves open important questions of how, after constructing a profile, people use these apps to connect and realize their goals, and what these experiences are like. We report on 22 interviews with users of Grindr, a location-based social app for men who have sex with men. We examine interaction processes from viewing profiles to meeting up. Using the perspective of relational dialectics, we explore tensions around connecting with others, sharing information, and being predictable or novel. We find that profile presentations are flexible and subject to change, disinhibition challenges interaction and revealing goals, and social consequences increase through moving from profile browsing to meeting FtF.
An effective health indicator for rolling elements bearing based on data space occupancy
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhang Yongxiang , Li Lin , Wang Shengjie , Xiao Yujie
Published: August 2017

An effective degradation indicator created from the general features is still a hotspot for the condition monitoring of bearing. Since the single general feature–based indicator cannot fully describe the degradation performance, some new indicators based on the characteristics of multiple general features are proposed using pattern recognition and dimensional reduction algorithms. Although most of these indicators can show the incipient fault and good degradation tendency only across the failure stage, also with oscillation, seldom of them can give the whole health condition of the entire useful life. Hence, further research is still needed to reduce the oscillation impact on the sensitivity of the indicator and make remarkable tendency of the degradation. For that purpose, a new indicator is proposed. For the capability of preserving the full structure of data manifold, Orthogonal Neighbourhood Preserving Projections is used for the data preprocessing to obtain the low-dimensional features with the main information remained. Since the preprocessed data can describe different health conditions, K-means clustering algorithm is used to classify the data into different sets according to different health conditions without human intervention. Then, the summation of mean maximum radius of the data set can be used as the health indicator. In order to further decrease the disturbance of the background noise, local outlier coefficient algorithm is used to eliminate the outliers’ influence on the effectiveness of the health indicator. The experimental results illustrate that the proposed indicator can show distinct tendency of different health conditions with less influence of the randomness and more sensitive to the incipient fault.
Structural health monitoring using torsional guided wave electromagnetic acoustic transducers
Authors: Herdovics Balint , Cegla Frederic
Published: August 2017

Torsional guided wave inspection is widely used for pipeline inspection. Piezoelectric and magnetostrictive transducers are most commonly used to generate torsional guided waves. These types of transducers require bonding or mechanical contact to the pipe which can result in changes over time which are undesirable for structural health monitoring. This article presents a non-contact Lorentz force–based electromagnetic acoustic transducer for torsional guided wave monitoring of pipelines. First, the excitation mechanism of the transducer is simulated by analyzing the eddy current and the static magnetic field using the finite element method. An electromagnetic acoustic transducer transformer model is presented which describes the eddy current generation transfer function and the ultrasound excitation. Independently simulated eddy current and magnetic fields are used to calculate the Lorentz force that an electromagnetic acoustic transducer array induces on the surface of a 3-in schedule 40 pipe, and an explicit finite element solver is then used to simulate the elastic wave propagation in the pipe. Then, the reception mechanism and the expected received signal levels are discussed. The construction of an experimental transducer is described, and measurement results from the transducer setup are presented. The measured and modeled performance agree well. Finally, a monitoring example is presented where an artificial defect with 3% reflection coefficient is introduced and successfully detected with the designed sensor.
Ensemble classification method for structural damage assessment under varying temperature
Authors: Fallahian Milad , Khoshnoudian Faramarz , Meruane Viviana
Published: August 2017

Vibration-based damage assessment approaches use modal parameters, such as frequency response functions, mode shapes, and natural frequencies, as indicators of structural damage. Nevertheless, these parameters are sensitive not only to damage but also to temperature variations. Most civil engineering structures are exposed to varying environmental conditions, thus hindering vibration-based damage assessment. Therefore, in this article, a new damage assessment algorithm based on pattern recognition is proposed to scrutinize the healthy state of a structure in the presence of uncertainties such as noise and temperature. The algorithm adopts a combination of couple sparse coding and deep neural network as an ensemble system to assess damage. The proposed method is validated using a numerical model of a truss bridge and experimental data of the I-40 bridge. The results demonstrate its efficiency in the localization and quantification of damages under varying temperature conditions.
Integrated impedance and Lamb wave–based structural health monitoring strategy for long-term cycle-loaded composite structure
Authors: Gao Dongyue , Wu Zhanjun , Yang Lei , Zheng Yuebin
Published: August 2017

Impedance of a sensor is sensitivity to small structural damage which surrounds the sensor. Lamb wave propagation provides higher damage detection efficiency in the range of large area. Both methods have been widely developed for structural health monitoring. This article presents integrated impedance and Lamb wave–based structural health monitoring strategy for composite pressure vessels. The output of the presented structural health monitoring strategy includes distribution and classification of damage and health condition of sensor network under varying internal pressure loading environments. In the strategy, a novel damage index adjusting method for Lamb wave damage detection is developed based on the signal features of real and imaginary parts of the sensor impedance. First, the potential structural damage is pre-warned by monitoring the impedance variation of the piezoelectric transducer sensor network. Then, the health condition of sensor network under the working condition is assessed by impedance-based self-diagnosis method; subsequently, the Lamb wave damage index is adjusted based on the result of sensor self-diagnosis. Finally, on the basis of sensor self-diagnosis and damage index adjustment result, damage identification and classification are performed. Practical efficacy of the structural health monitoring approach is tested by the damage monitoring experiment on loaded composite structure.
A hybrid prognosis model for predicting fatigue crack propagation under biaxial in-phase and out-of-phase loading
Authors: Neerukatti Rajesh Kumar , Chattopadhyay Aditi , Iyyer Nagaraja , Phan Nam
Published: August 2017

A hybrid prognosis model has been developed to predict the crack propagation in aluminum alloys subject to biaxial in-phase and out-of-phase fatigue loading conditions. The novel methodology combines physics-based modeling with machine learning techniques to predict crack growth in aluminum alloys. Understanding the failure mechanisms under these complex loading conditions is critical to developing reliable prognostic models. Therefore, extensive fatigue tests were conducted to study the failure modes of carefully designed cruciform specimens. Energy release rate was used as the physics-based parameter and Gaussian process was used to model the complex nonlinear relationships in the prognosis framework. The methodology was used to predict crack propagation in Al7075-T651 under a range of loading conditions. The predictions from the prognosis model were validated using the data obtained from the biaxial tests. The results indicate that the algorithm is able to accurately predict the crack propagation under proportional, non-proportional, in-phase, and out-of-phase loading conditions.
A novel electromechanical impedance–based model for strength development monitoring of cementitious materials
Authors: Lu Xubin , Lim Yee Yan , Soh Chee Kiong
Published: August 2017

Strength monitoring of early age concrete improves the efficiency of construction as it provides information on the optimum time for shoring removal and pre-stress transferring. Electromechanical impedance technique has been proven to be a useful tool for strength monitoring of cementitious materials. One of the key limitations of this technique is the lack of physical models, which resulted in strong reliance on statistical analysis tools to quantify the strength of structure being monitored. In this proof-of-concept study, a novel electromechanical impedance–based model with the potential of monitoring the strength of cementitious materials using the concept of Smart Probe is proposed. Instead of directly bonding a lead zirconate titanate patch on the host structure, a lead zirconate titanate was first surface-bonded on a pre-fabricated aluminum beam, which is termed Smart Probe. The Smart Probe was then partially embedded into cementitious materials for strength monitoring. The structural resonant frequencies of the Smart Probe can be identified from the conductance signatures measured from the lead zirconate titanate patch throughout the curing process and serve as strength indicator. By modeling the cementitious material as an elastic foundation supporting the Smart Probe, an analytical model was developed to predict the dynamic modulus of elasticity of cementitious materials based on the resonance frequency of the Smart Probe. Experimental study was carried out on a mortar slab specimen to verify the model and to investigate the performance of the Smart Probe. It was found that the dynamic modulus of elasticity of the host structure could be predicted from the conductance signatures using the proposed model. Compressive strength assessment was achieved by establishing an empirical relation with the dynamic modulus. The proposed electromechanical impedance–based model with Smart Probe is physically parametric in nature and shows high repeatability, which renders its superiority over the conventional statistical method–based electromechanical impedance technique for strength monitoring of cementitious materials.
Carving out inclusive sanctuaries for participation in higher education
Authors: Ikeda Cathy Kanoelani
Published: August 2017

The work that we do and how we do that work is formed through our view of the world, shaped within our own ways of knowing and prioritized by the needs of people and the lessons of place. This article illustrates what one educational policy, filtered through one way of knowing, and prioritized by the needs of people and place looks like in higher education. Kuahuokalā, a metaphor for third space manifestation, is used to carve out inclusive sanctuaries in the university. It is a praxis of Hawaiian epistemology through four intentional guides: hōʻai, ʻāina momona, kuahuokalā, and aʻo aku aʻo mai. These intentions reveal a (k)new old wisdom that simplifies complexity into purpose and common sense. The defining of the metaphor as well as these intentions frame this paper to transform the dialogue at the university, raise consciousness through action, and set policy in motion.
One step forward, two steps back: An examination of certificated teachers’ metaphorical images of schooling
Authors: Soysal Yılmaz , Radmard Somayyeh
Published: August 2017

This study explored the metaphors of schooling generated by prospective teachers ( N = 157) in Turkey who were attending a teacher training program to be certificated for the teaching profession. The schooling (teacher, learner, school) metaphors of certificated teachers were collected by using concept prompts such as ‘A teacher is like … because …’, ‘A learner is like … because …’ and ‘A school is like … because …’. In total 278 valid metaphors and 20 conceptual themes derived from the metaphors were generated across the three concepts. All of the metaphors produced were also categorized as either teacher-centered or learner-centered. The results show that the certificated teachers hold pervasively teacher-centered teaching beliefs which will shape their future classroom practices. In addition, it was also concluded that the certification program implemented in the university context did not meet the required high standards of teacher training and should be thoroughly reviewed and revised to provide a broader perspective. The metaphors appeared to act as a powerful thinking tool by providing an insight into the pedagogical thinking of and further actions by certificated teachers, and led to a discussion of recommendations regarding teacher training via certification programs.
Community managed services for persons with intellectual disability: Andhra Pradesh experience
Authors: Narayan Jayanthi , Pratapkumar Raja , Reddy Sudhakara P
Published: August 2017

In resource poor settings innovative and bottom-up approaches are required to provide services to people with with disabilities. In this context, the present paper explains a community-based model of manpower development and coordination of services for people with intellectual disabilities in unified state of Andhra Pradesh in India. Women with disabilities from the village were identified, and those willing to be trained to work as community resource persons (CRPs) were selected and given hands-on training in a phased manner. A total of 130 women were trained in five groups of 25–30 per group and were deployed in the community to screen, identify and refer children with intellectual disabilities. The training content included basic stimulation and interface with functionaries of other government departments of health, education and welfare to ensure comprehensive service delivery. Neighbourhood centres (NHCs) were established where the CRPs could meet with families collectively. The results indicated that the CRPs were welcomed by the families. The NHCs established primarily as recreation centres, promoted inclusion and functioned as information dissemination centre. The services provided by the CRPs were owned and monitored by the Women’s self-help group and the disability groups thus ensuring sustainability of the model.
Meeting the communication support needs of children and young people with intellectual disabilities in the Bolivian Andes
Authors: Buell Susan , Chadwick Darren
Published: August 2017

Services available for people with disabilities in Bolivia tend to be fragmented and costly. Children and adults with intellectual disabilities are more likely to have a related communication disability and are thus both literally and metaphorically excluded from having a voice. The following research aimed to explore the experiences of accessing services by people with communication disabilities in Bolivia through semi-structured interviews and one focus group carried out with family members, professionals, service providers, educators and policymakers. It aimed to establish the nature of current services in Bolivia where knowledge, information and resources are scarce. Findings indicated the need to consider an alternative to a medical model approach through a focus on empowering other stakeholders to participate more fully in meeting communication support needs. Conclusions plot ideas for future service delivery and emphasize the central power of sharing practical and expert knowledge.
The National Trust: A viable model of care for adults with intellectual disabilities in India
Authors: Menon Desh Keerti , Kishore M Thomas , Sivakumar T , Maulik Pallab K , Kumar Devvarta , Lakhan Ram , Banerjee Ruma
Published: August 2017

The longevity of people with intellectual disabilities is increasing in developing nations. However, developing nations lack a proper system of care for aging persons with intellectual disabilities. Until now the care has been provided by parents and relatives in the home environment in developing countries, but this scenario is also changing; therefore, there is a strong need to explore a plan of care for this population which is also feasible and replicable. The National Trust is an autonomous body of the Government of India which has developed a comprehensive plan of care for adults with intellectual disabilities. In this article, the National Trust is discussed using a socioecological model. The replicability and suitability of this model for other developing countries are discussed.
‘I’m sure we made it a better study…’: Experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities and parent carers of patient and public involvement in a health research study
Authors: Beighton Carole , Victor Christina , Carey Iain M , Hosking Fay , DeWilde Steve , Cook Derek G , Manners Paula , Harris Tess
Published: August 2017

Patient and public involvement is considered integral to health research in the United Kingdom; however, studies documenting the involvement of adults with intellectual disabilities and parent carers in health research studies are scarce. Through group interviews, this study explored the perspectives and experiences of a group of adults with intellectual disabilities and a group of parent carers about their collaborative/participatory involvement in a 3-year study which explored the effectiveness of annual health checks for adults with intellectual disabilities. Thematic analysis identified five key themes consistent across both groups; authenticity of participation, working together, generating new outcome measures, dissemination of findings and involvement in future research. Although reported anecdotally rather than originating from the analysis, increased self-confidence is also discussed. The groups’ unique perspectives led to insights not previously considered by the research team which led to important recommendations to inform healthcare practice.
Structural Analysis of Civil Society Organizations (CSO): Developing CSOs’ Organizational Capacities in Mexico
Authors: Rubalcaba Medina Emelia
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this research is to analyze, through quantitative methodology techniques, the organizational capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSO) in Mexico and their influence on public policy. It will seek to determine CSOs’ main characteristics (internally and externally) to identify the different channels through which they can exercise their influence, specifically in the agenda-setting process and the implementation of their proposals. The final objective of this article is to lead its findings toward public policy recommendations that empower CSOs by means of strengthening their organizational capacities.
Network Analysis on Attitudes
Authors: Dalege Jonas , Borsboom Denny , van Harreveld Frenk , van der Maas Han L. J.
Published: August 2017

In this article, we provide a brief tutorial on the estimation, analysis, and simulation on attitude networks using the programming language R. We first discuss what a network is and subsequently show how one can estimate a regularized network on typical attitude data. For this, we use open-access data on the attitudes toward Barack Obama during the 2012 American presidential election. Second, we show how one can calculate standard network measures such as community structure, centrality, and connectivity on this estimated attitude network. Third, we show how one can simulate from an estimated attitude network to derive predictions from attitude networks. By this, we highlight that network theory provides a framework for both testing and developing formalized hypotheses on attitudes and related core social psychological constructs.
Combined analysis of the safety of intra-coronary drug delivery during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction: A study of three clinical trials
Authors: Rathod Krishnaraj S , Hamshere Stephen , Khambata Rayomand S , Andiapen Mervyn , Westwood Mark , Mathur Anthony , Ahluwalia Amrita , Jones Daniel A
Published: August 2017

Background

The local injection of novel cardioprotective study drugs prior to percutaneous coronary intervention could cause embolisation of thrombus, resulting in increased reperfusion injury and subsequent infarct size. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of the delivery of an intracoronary therapy delivered during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction prior to the re-establishment of thrombolysis in myocardial infarction III flow.

Methods

One hundred sixty-seven patients with acute myocardial infarction successfully reperfused through primary percutaneous coronary intervention and undergoing Cardiac MRI within the first week after reperfusion were studied. Patients either underwent the delivery of an intracoronary agent (IMP or placebo) prior to balloon dilatation ( n = 80) or standard primary percutaneous coronary intervention procedure ( n = 117).

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. There were a similar number of successful procedures (IC IMP 75 (93.8%) vs. No IMP 114, (97.4%), p = 0.374), rates of no-reflow (IC IMP 1 (1.3%) vs. No IMP 2 (1.7%), p = 0.99) and levels of ST segment resolution (88.5% IC IMP vs. No IC IMP 87.0%, p = 0.669) between the two groups. Similar levels of microvascular obstruction were seen between the two groups with a trend to reduced infarct size, and improved ejection fractions in the IMP group. Lower MACE rates were seen in the IMP group.

Conclusion

The local intracoronary infusion of potential cardioprotective agents prior to the restoration of TIMI flow in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction appears to be safe and does not increase microvascular damage. This route should be considered when testing novel cardioprotective agents.
The Context for Legal Cynicism
Authors: Hitchens Brooklynn K. , Carr Patrick J. , Clampet-Lundquist Susan
Published: August 2017

Research and public discourse on urban policing and the collateral consequences of mass incarceration often center on the experiences of young males, particularly young Black and brown men who live in low-income, high-crime neighborhoods. Consequently, less is known about how young women are policed in these contexts; and whether their experiences and dispositions toward police vary across racial and ethnic groups. Drawing on 70 in-depth interviews with low-income Black, Latina, and White young women between the ages of 14 and 24, in the City of Philadelphia, the current research explores the differences and similarities in their experiences with and perceptions of police, and the social contexts that influence those interactions. A comparative analysis reveals important nuances in young women’s direct and indirect experiences with police by race and ethnicity. The findings indicate that, within disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly among young Black and Latina women, direct and vicarious experiences with policing contribute to expressions of legal cynicism.
A fundamental diagram of urbanization
Authors: Carra Giulia , Barthelemy Marc
Published: August 2017

The process of urbanization is one of the most important phenomenon of our societies and it is only recently that the availability of massive amounts of geolocalized historical data allows us to address quantitatively some of its features. Here, we discuss how the number of buildings evolves with population and we show on different datasets (Chicago, 1930–2010; London, 1900–2015; New York City, 1790–2013; Paris, 1861–2011) that this ‘fundamental diagram’ evolves in a possibly universal way with three distinct phases. After an initial pre-urbanization phase, the first phase is a rapid growth of the number of buildings versus population. In a second regime, where residences are converted into another use (such as offices or stores for example), the population decreases while the number of buildings stays approximately constant. In another subsequent phase, the number of buildings and the population grow again and correspond to a re-densification of cities. We propose a stochastic model based on these simple mechanisms to reproduce the first two regimes and show that it is in excellent agreement with empirical observations. These results bring evidences for the possibility of constructing a minimal model that could serve as a tool for understanding quantitatively urbanization and the future evolution of cities.
Increased Neuronal DNA/RNA Oxidation in the Frontal Cortex of Mice Subjected to Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress
Authors: Maluach Alfred M. , Misquitta Keith A. , Prevot Thomas D. , Fee Corey , Sibille Etienne , Banasr Mounira , Andreazza Ana C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Chronic stress is implicated in the development of various psychiatric illnesses including major depressive disorder. Previous reports suggest that patients with major depressive disorder have increased levels of oxidative stress, including higher levels of DNA/RNA oxidation found in postmortem studies, especially within brain regions responsible for the cognitive and emotional processes disrupted in the disorder. Here, we aimed to investigate whether unpredictable chronic mild stress in mice induces neuronal DNA/RNA oxidation in the prelimbic, infralimbic, and cingulate cortices of the frontal cortex and the basolateral amygdala and to explore potential associations with depressive-like behaviors. We expected that animals subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress will present higher levels of DNA/RNA oxidation, which will be associated with anxiety-/depressive-like behaviors.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice were assigned to unpredictable chronic mild stress or nonstress conditions (n = 10/group, 50% females). Following five weeks of unpredictable chronic mild stress exposure, mice were tested in a series of behavioral tests measuring anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. Frontal cortex and amygdala sections were then immunolabeled for neuronal nuclei, a marker of post-mitotic neurons and anti-8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine/8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine, which reflects both DNA and RNA oxidation.

Results

Levels of neuronal DNA/RNA oxidation were increased in the frontal cortex of mice subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress ( p = 0.0207). Levels of neuronal DNA/RNA oxidation in the frontal cortex were positively correlated with z-emotionality scores for latency to feed in the novelty-suppressed feeding test ( p = 0.0031). Statistically significant differences were not detected in basolateral amygdala levels of neuronal DNA/RNA oxidation between nonstress- and unpredictable chronic mild stress-exposed mice, nor were correlations found with behavioral performances for this region.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that unpredictable chronic mild stress induces a significant increase in neuronal DNA/RNA oxidation in the frontal cortex that correlate with behavioral readouts of the stress response. A lack of DNA/RNA oxidation alterations in the basolateral amygdala suggests greater vulnerability of frontal cortex neurons to DNA/RNA oxidation in response to unpredictable chronic mild stress. These findings add support to the hypothesis that chronic stress-induced damage to DNA/RNA may be an additional molecular mechanism underlying cellular dysfunctions associated with chronic stress and present in stress-related disorders.
Selectin catch-bonds mechanotransduce integrin activation and neutrophil arrest on inflamed endothelium under shear flow
Authors: Morikis Vasilios A. , Chase Shannon , Wun Ted , Chaikof Elliot L. , Magnani John L. , Simon Scott I.
Published: August 2017

Key Points

Neutrophils rolling on E-selectin form catch-bonds with L-selectin that mechanosignal β2-integrin bond formation with intracellular adhesion molecule 1. Rivipansel blocks E-selectin recognition of sLex on L-selectin, thereby antagonizing outside-in signaling of high-affinity β2-integrin.
Maternal iAMP21 acute lymphoblastic leukemia detected on prenatal cell-free DNA genetic screening
Authors: Luskin Marlise R. , Discenza Marie N. , Easter Sarah Rae , Dal Cin Paola , Owen Renius , Ilagan Bernard , Masiello Meredith , Lane Andrew A.
Published: August 2017

Key Points

cfDNA sequencing for fetal aneuploidy may detect chromosomal abnormalities representative of maternal malignancy. Maternal malignancy must be considered when abnormal cfDNA sequencing for fetal aneuploidy is associated with normal fetal karyotype.
Septal contributions to olfactory bulb interneuron diversity in the embryonic mouse telencephalon: role of the homeobox gene Gsx2
Authors: Qin Shenyue , Ware Stephanie M. , Waclaw Ronald R. , Campbell Kenneth
Published: August 2017

Background

Olfactory bulb (OB) interneurons are known to represent diverse neuronal subtypes, which are thought to originate from a number of telencephalic regions including the embryonic dorsal lateral ganglionic eminence (dLGE) and septum. These cells migrate rostrally toward the OB, where they then radially migrate to populate different OB layers including the granule cell layer (GCL) and the outer glomerular layer (GL). Although previous studies have attempted to investigate regional contributions to OB interneuron diversity, few genetic tools have been used to address this question at embryonic time points when the earliest populations are specified.

Methods

In this study, we utilized Zic3-lacZ and Gsx2e-CIE transgenic mice as genetic fate-mapping tools to study OB interneuron contributions derived from septum and LGE, respectively. Moreover, to address the regional (i.e. septal) requirements of the homeobox gene Gsx2 for OB interneuron diversity, we conditionally inactivated Gsx2 in the septum, leaving it largely intact in the dLGE, by recombining the Gsx2 floxed allele using Olig2

Cre/+
mice.

Results

Our fate mapping studies demonstrated that the dLGE and septum gave rise to OB interneuron subtypes differently. Notably, the embryonic septum was found to give rise largely to the calretinin+ (CR+) GL subtype, while the dLGE was more diverse, generating all major GL subpopulations as well as many GCL interneurons. Moreover, Gsx2 conditional mutants (cKOs), with septum but not dLGE recombination, showed impaired generation of CR+ interneurons within the OB GL. These Gsx2 cKOs exhibited reduced proliferation within the septal subventricular zone (SVZ), which correlated well with the reduced number of CR+ interneurons observed.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the septum and LGE contribute differently to OB interneuron diversity. While the dLGE provides a wide range of OB interneuron subtypes, the septum is more restricted in its contribution to the CR+ subtype. Gsx2 is required in septal progenitors for the correct expansion of SVZ progenitors specified toward the CR+ subtype. Finally, the septum has been suggested to be the exclusive source of CR+ interneurons in postnatal studies. Our results here demonstrate that dLGE progenitors in the embryo also contribute to this OB neuronal subtype.
Coherent noise suppression by learning and analyzing the morphology of the data
Authors: Turquais Pierre , Asgedom Endrias G. , Söllner Walter
Published: August 2017

We have developed a method for suppressing coherent noise from seismic data by using the morphological differences between the noise and the signal. This method consists of three steps: First, we applied a dictionary learning method on the data to extract a redundant dictionary in which the morphological diversity of the data is stored. Such a dictionary is a set of unit vectors called atoms that represent elementary patterns that are redundant in the data. Because the dictionary is learned on data contaminated by coherent noise, it is a mix of atoms representing signal patterns and atoms representing noise patterns. In the second step, we separate the noise atoms from the signal atoms using a statistical classification. Hence, the learned dictionary is divided into two subdictionaries: one describing the morphology of the noise and the other one describing the morphology of the signal. Finally, we separate the seismic signal and the coherent noise via morphological component analysis (MCA); it uses sparsity with respect to the two subdictionaries to identify the signal and the noise contributions in the mixture. Hence, the proposed method does not use prior information about the signal and the noise morphologies, but it entirely adapts to the signal and the noise of the data. It does not require a manual search for adequate transforms that may sparsify the signal and the noise, in contrast to existing MCA-based methods. We develop an application of the proposed method for removing the mechanical noise from a marine seismic data set. For mechanical noise that is coherent in space and time, the results show that our method provides better denoising in comparison with the standard FX-Decon, FX-Cadzow, and the curvelet-based denoising methods.
Azimuthally anisotropic elastic impedance inversion for fluid indicator driven by rock physics
Authors: Pan Xinpeng , Zhang Guangzhi , Yin Xingyao
Published: August 2017

The normal-to-tangential fracture compliance ratio is usually used as a fracture fluid indicator (FFI) for fluid identification in fractured reservoirs. With a new parameterization for fracture weaknesses, we have defined a new FFI based on azimuthally anisotropic elastic impedance (EI) inversion and fractured anisotropic rock-physics models. First, we derived a new azimuthally anisotropic EI equation with a similar expression for the isotropic and anisotropic EI parts to remove the exponential correction of EI that is attributable to weak anisotropy. Then, we built a fractured anisotropic rock-physics model used for the estimation of well-log parameters for the normal and tangential fracture weaknesses, which built the initial background low-frequency trend of fracture weaknesses. Finally, based on the azimuthally anisotropic EI inversion method with the Cauchy-sparse and low-frequency information regularization, we estimated an FFI applied to fluid identification in fractured reservoirs. Tests on the synthetic and real data demonstrate that the anisotropic parameters related to fracture weaknesses can be estimated reasonably and stably and that our method appears to provide an alternative available for fluid identification in fractured reservoirs.