bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accessing Algebra via MathSpeak™: Understanding the Potential and Pitfalls for Students with Visual Impairments
Authors: Bouck Emily C. , Meyer Nancy K. , Joshi Gauri S. , Schleppenbach Dave
Published: December 2015

Despite the promise of supported eText (or digital text) for the education of students with visual impairments, there is little research on this topic in general and even less in the domain of mathematics. Using a qualitative approach, this study explored the current system used by students with visual impairments to access algebra and the impact of a supported eText player (ReadHear™) on their access to and understanding of algebraic expressions. The findings suggested that students were successful with using the technology to access and understand algebraic expressions. The findings also indicated that efficiency and individualization were key aspects to students' use of and appreciation for the tool, which differs from students' traditional means of accessing mathematics. Additional research is needed to understand how supported eText compares to traditional methods that students with visual impairments use to access text and how this technology can be used in the mathematics classroom.
A First Look at Early Intervention and Early Childhood Providers' Reports of Assistive Technology Reuse
Authors: Wilcox M. Jeanne , Campbell Philippa H. , Fortunato Livia , Hoffman Jill
Published: December 2015

Reports of the experiences of 256 early intervention and early childhood providers with assistive technology (AT) reuse were obtained via a national online survey. A majority of providers (75.7%) indicated that they had never donated, sold, or received a device from a formal AT reuse program. However, a majority did report reusing AT devices within their own programs, indicating that reuse was occurring at a program-based level. Limitations of program-based reuse are discussed and suggestions are made for expanding the capacity and usability of reuse through affiliations with statewide and regional networks. In addition, respondent data suggest an expansion of AT reuse beyond devices, to include ideas and instructions for low-tech solutions to meet the needs of younger children in particular.
Supporting Speech Generating Device Use in the Classroom. Part 1: Teacher Professional Development
Authors: McMillan Julie M. , Renzaglia Adelle
Published: December 2015

To educate students with complex communication needs and use speech generating devices (SGDs) or other assistive technology (AT) in the classroom, teachers must develop sufficient knowledge and skills and receive adequate support to achieve desired student learning outcomes. Current professional development practices such as workshops and inservice may not be sufficient to achieve effective transference of skills to practice in the classroom. This two-part study investigated the effects of a multiphase teacher professional development package on student SGD use. Part 1 of this study focused on teacher professional learning. Teachers were taught (a) device operation and programming, (b) device integration and embedding, and (c) systematic communication instruction using time delay. All teachers learned device programming and instructional procedures and maintained as well as generalized their use. Part 2 of this study demonstrated the effects of the teachers' acquired skills on student communication and SGD use. Part 1 has implications for the professional development and support of teachers who educate students with complex communication needs who use SGDs or other AT in the classroom. For a detailed investigation of student communication outcomes, see the discussion of Part 2 of the investigation, which follows.
Adapting Packaged Measurement Systems to Monitor the Classroom Performance of Handicapped Persons
Authors: Sasser Robert
Published: December 2015

Evaluating students' progress over a variety of skills is necessary for adequate Instruction. The task may be simplified by using one monitoring system. The adaptation of one commercially available system to measure many skills is described.
The Effect of a Monitoring System on the Math Achievement of the Educable Mentally Retarded
Authors: Boehmer Donald P. , Hofmeister Alan M.
Published: December 2015

This study was designed to investigate the effects of a management-by-objectives math program on the achievement of a group of educable mentally retarded children. The treatment program consisted of a math curriculum guide containing 23 topics in mathematics. Each topic was broken down into sequenced behavioral objectives. One experimental group and one comparison group were used to assess the effects of the treatment program. Both groups were pre and post-tested with the math section of the Wide Range Achievement Test and a 92-item criterion referenced math skills placement test. The results suggest that the use of a management-by-objectives approach can significantly improve the math achievement of educable mentally retarded children when contrasted to the approaches used with the comparison group.
Task Analysis in Special Education: Definition and Clarification
Authors: Schworm Ron
Published: December 2015

The use and function of task analysis in special education is becoming the most proposed instructional system for teaching children and adults with learning problems. In general, the term task analysis has acquired a myriad of definition and meaning that lacks precision. This article identifies and clarifies the variety of meanings of the term, and examines the instructional contexts where the procedures may apply. A sample of specific and general task analysis procedures found in the literature are typed by emphasis: content, interaction, and prerequisite; by size: single units of behavior or entire skills; and by kind: perceptual-motor or symbolic-conceptual. Finally, the paper examines a rationale for implementing precise step-by-step teaching for individuals who do not respond to regular instruction.
Regulatory Forum Opinion Piece*
Authors: Nikula Kristen J.
Published: December 2015

It is the author’s opinion that an experienced pathologist need not always be present at necropsy for safety studies to support development of large or small molecules. Reasons why an experienced pathologist need not be present in the room for every study as well as the value of necropsy attendance as a training opportunity for less experienced pathologists are presented. However, there are studies for which an experienced pathologist should be in attendance at necropsy and examples of these types of studies are listed.
Long-Term Consequences of Early Sexual Initiation on Young Adult Health
Authors: Kugler Kari C. , Vasilenko Sara A. , Butera Nicole M. , Coffman Donna L.
Published: December 2015

Although early sexual initiation has been linked to negative outcomes, it is unknown whether these effects are causal. In this study, we use propensity score methods to estimate the causal effect of early sexual initiation on young adult sexual risk behaviors and health outcomes using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. We found that early sexual initiation predicted having two or more partners (for both males and females) and having a sexually transmitted infection in the past year (females only) but did not predict depressive symptoms in the past week (for either gender). These results underscore the importance of continued programmatic efforts to delay age of sexual initiation, particularly for females.
The migraine–stroke connection: A genetic perspective
Authors: Malik Rainer , Winsvold Bendik , Auffenberg Eva , Dichgans Martin , Freilinger Tobias
Published: December 2015

Background

A complex relationship between migraine and vascular disease has long been recognized. The pathophysiological basis underlying this correlation is incompletely understood.

Aim

The aim of this review is to focus on the migraine–vascular disorders connection from a genetic perspective, illustrating potentially shared (molecular) mechanisms.

Results

We first summarize the clinical presentation and genetic basis of CADASIL and other monogenic vascular syndromes with migraine as a prominent disease manifestation. Based on data from transgenic mouse models for familial hemiplegic migraine, we then discuss cortical spreading depression as a potential mechanistic link between migraine and ischemic stroke. Finally, we review data from genome-wide association studies, with a focus on overlapping findings with cervical artery dissection, ischemic stroke in general and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

A wealth of data supports a genetic link between migraine and vascular disease. Based on growing high-throughput data-sets, new genotyping techniques and in-depth phenotyping, further insights are expected for the future.
Master Bedrooms and Master Suites
Authors: Moroney Siobhan
Published: December 2015

Nineteenth- to mid-twentieth-century house design situated a “parents’ room” within close proximity to other bedrooms, keeping the marital couple near their children. That placement comported with a concept of marriage as a shared enterprise focused nearly exclusively on child raising. But since the mid-twentieth century, the “master bedroom” has grown both in size—now encompassing a suite, as the master bathroom is now standard—and in importance. Modern marriages require sanctuary from the stresses of family life and must have privacy to achieve happiness and fulfillment.
Menarche and Menstruation in Rural Adolescent Girls in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Behera Deepanjali , Sivakami Muthusamy , Behera Manas Ranjan
Published: December 2015

Background:

Menarche and menstrual experiences play a critical role in adolescent girls’ life. These not only significantly influence their sexual and reproductive health but also possess much social and educational impact. This study qualitatively explores the perceptions, practices and experiences related to menarche and menstruation among rural Indian adolescent girls which has been less studied in the past literature.

Methods:

A convenience sampling method was used to select 32 adolescent girls (eight girls who did not reach menarche and 24 girls who attained menarche) from rural Maharashtra in India. Information about the perceptions, practices and experiences of menarche and menstruation among the participants was obtained through focus group discussions and was analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings:

Most of the participants, especially girls without menarche lacked adequate knowledge about menstruation and its processes. All communications regarding menstruation were between friends, whereas mothers were found to be playing a limited role. Some of the girls were using sanitary pads, while most girls still use old cloths. Financial concerns and difficulty in obtaining sanitary pads were major obstructions for their use. Lack of awareness and appropriate care for menstrual morbidities were reported among these girls, which put impact on their educational attainment.

Conclusions:

Suitable strategy needs to be developed for providing correct knowledge about menstruation among adolescent girls, such as inclusion of adolescent friendly services in school curriculum and training of mothers and teachers to provide friendly counselling to the girls. Further, menstrual pad vending machines could be installed in schools and colleges, for easy access of sanitary pads at subsidized rate. Special care and support during menstruation can prevent several adverse events from occurring in adolescent girls’ lives.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Patient Delay Among Women With Breast Cancer in Rural India
Authors: Gangane Nitin , Anshu  , Manvatkar Shiva , Ng Nawi , Hurtig Anna-Karin , Sebastián Miguel San
Published: December 2015

Delay in seeking health care by women with breast cancer increases mortality risk. This study was conducted in rural India to identify risk factors associated with patient delay. A total of 212 women with primary breast cancer diagnosed between 2010 and 2012 were interviewed. Sociodemographic characteristics, time interval between seeking medical attention and appearance of symptoms, and reasons for delay were inquired. Patient delay was defined as more than 3 months between date of first symptoms and medical consultation. Logistic regression was applied to assess associations between potential risk factors and patient delay. Almost half the women with breast cancer experienced patient delay. Age more than 60 years (odds ratio = 4.9, 95% confidence interval = 1.3-18.0) was significantly associated with patient delay. Only 6.6% of patients had heard about breast self-examination. Significantly higher number of patients with delay presented with advanced clinical stage ( P = .000). Health education programs should be introduced with specific strategies to shorten patient delay.
Ethical use of the media by psychiatrists: towards an antipodean formulation of the “Goldwater Rule”
Authors: Robertson Michael , Walter Garry , Bloch Sidney
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

To review the ethical problems posed by the participation of psychiatrists in various forms of lay media and propose a method of resolving quandaries in this area.

Conclusions:

We review the potential ethical problems that arise when psychiatrists make contributions to the lay media, particularly when commentary and opinion reflects the views of the individual rather than the profession. The issues raised by the North American injunction known as the “Goldwater Rule” are pertinent to Australasia, particularly when media statements made by psychiatrists may seem to diminish the profession through politicisation, polemic, or bringing the profession and the field into disrepute. We propose a series of reflective questions to assist psychiatrists in Australasia to deliberate on the potential ethical problems arising from their participation in media activities. We conclude that it is for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists to formulate an approach to situations where the media activities of Fellows raise such problems.
Researching Reflexively With Patients and Families
Authors: Collier Aileen , Wyer Mary
Published: December 2015

Patient safety research has to date offered few opportunities for patients and families to be actively involved in the research process. This article describes our collaboration with patients and families in two separate studies, involving end-of-life care and infection control in acute care. We used the collaborative methodology of video-reflexive ethnography, which has been primarily used with clinicians, to involve patients and families as active participants and collaborators in our research. The purpose of this article is to share our experiences and findings that iterative researcher reflexivity in the field was critical to the progress and success of each study. We present and analyze the complexities of reflexivity-in-the-field through a framework of multilayered reflexivity. We share our lessons here for other researchers seeking to actively involve patients and families in patient safety research using collaborative visual methods.
A Systematic Review of Consent Procedures, Participation Rates, and Main Findings of Health-Related Research in Alternative High Schools From 2010 to 2015
Authors: Johnson Karen E. , Morris Marian , Rew Lynn , Simonton Amanda J.
Published: December 2015

There is a well-established link between educational attainment and health. Alternative high schools (AHSs) serve students who are at risk for school dropout. Health-related research conducted in AHSs has been sparse. Achieving high participation rates is critical to producing generalizable results and can be challenging in research with adolescents for reasons such as using active consent. These challenges become greater when working with vulnerable populations of adolescents. In this systematic review, we examined health-related studies conducted in AHSs between 2010 and 2015. Results indicated that (1) health-related research in AHSs has increased over the past 5 years, (2) AHS students continue to experience significant disparities, (3) active consent is commonly used with AHS students, (4) 42% of studies reported participation rates or provided enough information to calculate participation rates, and (5) school nurses are missing from health-related research conducted in AHSs. Implications for future research and school nursing are discussed.
Relearning to See in Cortical Blindness
Authors: Melnick Michael D. , Tadin Duje , Huxlin Krystel R.
Published: December 2015

The incidence of cortically induced blindness is increasing as our population ages. The major cause of cortically induced blindness is stroke affecting the primary visual cortex. While the impact of this form of vision loss is devastating to quality of life, the development of principled, effective rehabilitation strategies for this condition lags far behind those used to treat motor stroke victims. Here we summarize recent developments in the still emerging field of visual restitution therapy, and compare the relative effectiveness of different approaches. We also draw insights into the properties of recovered vision, its limitations and likely neural substrates. We hope that these insights will guide future research and bring us closer to the goal of providing much-needed rehabilitation solutions for this patient population.
Clinical Effect of Cardiac Shock Wave Therapy on Myocardial Ischemia in Patients With Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Wang Wenxia , Liu Hua , Song Mengxian , Fang Weiyi , Yuan Fang
Published: December 2015

Background:

Cardiac shock wave therapy (CSWT) can improve myocardial ischemia and cardiac function in patients with coronary artery disease and refractory angina. The aim of the study was to test its potential role to relieve symptoms in patients with ischemic heart failure (HF) and to identify CSWT-affected genes.

Methods:

Cardiac shock wave therapy was performed on 23 patients (mean age: 67 ± 6 years) with ischemic HF 3 times per week for 3 weeks. Clinical assessment parameters were measured for all patients, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from whole blood of all patients 3 days before CSWT and 1 week after the 3-week CSWT schedule. RNA sequencing of PBMCs collected from 3 patients before and after CSWT was performed on the Illumina Genome Analyzer. Gene expression was determined by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Cardiac shock wave therapy significantly attenuated myocardial ischemia and severity of angina, health-related quality of life, and myocardial blood flow as estimated by New York Heart Association class, Canadian Cardiovascular Society classification, Seattle Angina Questionnaire, and single photon emission computed tomography images, respectively. We then tried to investigate how CSWT improved myocardial ischemia by RNA sequencing on PBMCs. Gene set enrichment analysis on the sequencing data revealed that CSWT treatment was positively correlated with cytokine and cytokine receptor interaction and chemokine signaling pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrated that CSWT resulted in a significant increase in the expression of promoters of neovascularization (vascular endothelial growth factor A [VEGF-A], VEGF-B, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 [CXCL1], CXCL2, CXCL3 and TNFRSF12A) and a notable decrease in the expression of a mediator of cell apoptosis (mitogen-activated protein kinase 9).

Conclusions:

Cardiac shock wave therapy can improve myocardial ischemia and represents as a treatment option for patients with ischemic HF through promoting neovascularization and inhibiting cell apoptosis.
Renal Abnormalities Among Egyptian Children With Hemophilia A Using Renal Scintigraphy: Relation to Risk Factors and Disease Severity
Authors: Hamed Ahmed Alsaeed , Shalaby Mennatallah Hatem , El-Kinawy Nihal Saad , Elamawy Alaa Adel , Abd El-Ghany Shereen Mohamed
Published: December 2015

Many risk factors may contribute to renal disease in patients with hemophilia A.

Aim:

We aimed to evaluate functional and structural renal abnormalities among a group of Egyptian children with severe and moderate hemophilia A using technetium-99m diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) and technetium-99 m dimercaptusuccinic acid (99mTc-DMSA) scan. We also aimed to determine the relation between these abnormalities and different risk factors and disease severity.

Patients and methods:

Forty male patients, 16 with severe and 24 with moderate hemophilia A, were enrolled in this study. Their mean age was 10.2 ± 4.3 years (range, 5-17 years). Full history taking, clinical examination, laboratory, and radionuclide investigations including serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), urine analysis, creatinine clearance, 24-hour urinary protein,99mTc-DTPA scan, and99mTc-DMSA scan were performed to all enrolled patients.

Results:

Serum creatinine and BUN were normal in all patients, and corrected creatinine clearance was diminished in 2 patients. However,99mTc-DTPA results yielded 19 (47.5%) patients with diminished glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Moreover, it showed that 14 (35%) had obstructive uropathy, 15 (37.5%) had obstructive nephropathy, while 11 (27.5%) patients showed normal scan. One patient had atrophy of 1 kidney on99mTc-DMSA scan. Among our cohort, 5 (12.5%) patients were hypertensive. Microscopic hematuria was detected in 14 (35%) patients while 72.5% had proteinuria. We found an association between hematuria and hypertension with diminished GFR.

Conclusion:

Despite normal kidney functions (serum creatinine and BUN), we found a high rate of diminished GFR and obstructive uropathy and nephropathy as detected by99mTc-DTPA scan among children with hemophilia A.
Mechanical and electrical characteristics of traveling wave ultrasonic motors during the whole life of friction material
Authors: Li Jinbang , Qu Jianjun , Zhang Yanhu , Wang Junxiong
Published: December 2015

It is difficult to evaluate the characteristics of traveling wave ultrasonic motors (TWUSMs) during the whole life of friction material (FM) because the wear of FM is quite slow. To solve this problem, an accelerated life test method was proposed and the mechanical and electrical characteristics of TWUSMs in the whole life of FM were analyzed systematically. The results show that the mechanical characteristics including speed and efficiency have a decline trend after an ascent with the increase of FM thickness, especially when the load torque is great. When the load torque is greater than 0.4 Nm, the optimum range of FM thickness is 0.10–0.20 mm. When the residual FM thickness is less than 0.17 mm, holding torque is greater than stall torque. Electrical characteristics of TWUSM show monotonicity in the whole life of FM. Therefore, the variations of electrical characteristics could be the wear indicator of FM. Based on experiment analysis, mechanism of interactions and couplings in the energy transfer process of the TWUSM system was explored. The energy transfer process of TWUSM was divided into four subprocesses. The wear of FM is in the intermediate subprocess, which has influence on both output performance and drive circuit of TWUSM. The four subprocesses interact and couple with each other closely. Consequently, the mechanical part and electrical part of TWUSM should be not isolated, and not only the forward action, but also the backward action in energy transfer process should be considered for a more realistic theoretical model of TWUSM.
Imaging central veins in brain lesions with 3-T T2*-weighted magnetic resonance imaging differentiates multiple sclerosis from microangiopathic brain lesions
Authors: Mistry Niraj , Abdel-Fahim Rasha , Samaraweera Amal , Mougin Olivier , Tallantyre Emma , Tench Christopher , Jaspan Tim , Morris Peter , Morgan Paul S , Evangelou Nikos
Published: December 2015

Background:

White matter lesions are frequently detected using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed for various indications. Most are microangiopathic, but demyelination, including multiple sclerosis (MS), is an important cause; conventional MRI cannot always distinguish between these pathologies. The proportion of lesions with a central vein on 7-T T2*-weighted MRI prospectively distinguishes demyelination from microangiopathic lesions.

Objective:

To test whether 3-T T2*-weighted MRI can differentiate MS from microangiopathic brain lesions.

Methods:

A total of 40 patients were studied. Initially, a test cohort of 10 patients with MS and 10 patients with microangiopathic white matter lesions underwent 3-T T2*-weighted brain MRI. Anonymised scans were analysed blind to clinical data, and simple diagnostic rules were devised. These rules were applied to a validation cohort of 20 patients (13 with MS and 7 with microangiopathic lesions) by a blinded observer.

Results:

Within the test cohort, all patients with MS had central veins visible in >45% of brain lesions, while the rest had central veins visible in <45% of lesions. By applying diagnostic rules to the validation cohort, all remaining patients were correctly categorised.

Conclusion:

3-T T2*-weighted brain MRI distinguishes perivenous MS lesions from microangiopathic lesions. Clinical application of this technique could supplement existing diagnostic algorithms.
The effects of robot-assisted gait training in progressive multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Straudi Sofia , Fanciullacci Chiara , Martinuzzi Carlotta , Pavarelli Claudia , Rossi Bruno , Chisari Carmelo , Basaglia Nino
Published: December 2015

Background:

Gait and mobility impairments are common in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), leading to reduced quality of life (QoL).

Objective:

In this randomized controlled study, we tested the effects of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) and compared it to conventional physiotherapy, measuring walking ability, depression, fatigue, and QoL in patients with progressive MS and severe gait disability.

Methods:

Fifty-two participants (Expanded Disability Status Scale score 6–7) completed the study protocol. They received two sessions/week over 6 weeks of RAGT or conventional walking therapy. Outcome measures were Six-Minute Walk Test, Ten-Meter Walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test, Berg Balance Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, and Short Form 36. They were performed pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 3 months.

Results:

Walking endurance ( p < 0.01) and balance ( p < 0.01) were improved among those in the RAGT group. Positive effects on depression in both treatment groups were highlighted. However, only among those in the RAGT group was perceived physical functioning QoL increased. No significant effects on fatigue were found.

Conclusion:

RAGT is a treatment option in progressive MS patients with severe gait impairments to induce short-lasting effects on mobility and QoL.
Castells, ‘Murdochization’, economic counterpower and livestreaming
Authors: David Matthew , Kirton Andrew , Millward Peter
Published: December 2015

In his Information Age trilogy, Manuel Castells documents the transformation of economic power by means of network affordances. In more recent work, he has built an account of the linking of economic power with cultural and political power through ‘Murdochization’ or ‘the networking of networks’. Whilst Castells’ account of power has thus developed to acknowledge the integration of economic, cultural and political interests within networks, his account of ‘counterpower’ remains largely focused on cultural and political resistance in the form of protest. Here we explore a case of economic counterpower, the unauthorized livestreaming of digital sports broadcasts. Analysis of this particular case (of counterpower) is particularly significant, given the centrality of Murdochization in Castells’ account of power in the network society. Emerging out of, alongside, and in response to the growth of, Murdochized digital media sports networks, we explore the scope and limits of livestreaming as a form of economic counterpower and counter-Murdochization. In this article, we document Castells’ theory of network power, the centrality of Murdochization to that account, and the centrality of monopoly control over digital sports broadcasting to Murdochized media empires. The scope and resilience of alternative streaming media in switching live sports programming from pay to view to free sharing is then examined. The failure to date of all attempts to prohibit free streams shows the ongoing viability of such economic counterpower. However, whilst dominant actors cannot eliminate economic counterpower, where dominant actors choose not to broadcast, no switching of content can take place.
Analysis of dynamic behavior of multi-cracked cantilever rotor in viscous medium
Authors: Parhi Dayal R , Yadao Adik R
Published: December 2015

The present investigation is an attempt to evaluate the dynamic behaviours of multi-cracked cantilever rotor shaft with an additional mass attached at the tip of the shaft, which is partially submerged in the viscous fluid. In this work, theoretical expressions are developed to find the fundamental natural frequency and amplitude of the multi-cracked rotor shaft with attached mass, using influence coefficient method. Navier–Stoke’s equations are used for the analysis of external fluid forces acting on the rotor. Viscosities of the fluid and relative crack locations are taken as main variable parameters. For the analysis, suitable theoretical expressions are considered, and the Matlab programming is made to obtain the results. Experimental verifications are also performed to prove the validity of the theory developed.
Peripheral identities in contemporary Spain
Authors: Llamazares Iván , Marcos-Marne Hugo , Martín-Vallejo Javier
Published: December 2015

This article examines the individual and contextual factors affecting peripheral identifications in Spain. It does so by conducting multilevel statistical analyses on two surveys on regional and national identifications that were carried out by the Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas in 1996 and 2006, at two very different political conjunctures. At the individual level, these analyses show that peripheral identifications are strongly conditioned by language attributes (in particular by vernacular mother languages), by the place of birth of respondents and by left–right self-placements. At the aggregate level, only geographical distance from the national centre exerts a significant and consistent influence on peripheral identifications. Our analysis reveals also that the effects of language attributes and ideological orientations increased from 1996 to 2006, and suggests that contexts of polarisation regarding political–territorial issues strengthen the influence of linguistic characteristics and ideological orientations on peripheral identities.
Tourism aesthetics in ruinscapes: Bargaining cultural and monetary values of Detroit’s negative image
Authors: Tegtmeyer Lina L
Published: December 2015

Based on the premise that pictures are not only culturally but also economically meaningful in the context of tourism, this article proposes a rearrangement of MacCannell’s model “semiotics of attraction” to discuss current negotiations of meaning of sight/site marking with urban photography. In Detroit, the city’s negative image has changed from ill-reputed urban wasteland to picturesque ruinscape of “America’s Great Comeback City.” Turning the post-industrial shrinking city into a tourist attraction has not resolved socio-economic problems but instead commodified them. Carving out the underlying neoliberal ideology in cultural meaning of urban decline at the example of Detroit’s changed image, this article puts forth to debate in how far tourism shifts from being a leisure activity to being a marketing strategy and what that means for negotiations of cultural values through tourism semiotics, the significance of photography, and the visual in urban tourism, and eventually for the significance of tourism in urban development.
“The thing itself”: Using literary criticism techniques in teaching qualitative research through dissertation advising
Authors: Joyce Patricia A
Published: December 2015

Dissertation advising is a form of teaching that takes place one-to-one rather than in the classroom. Although there have been monographs and journal articles on dissertation advising from a number of disciplines, professions, and perspectives, to date, no qualitative social work scholarship has addressed the use of literature or literary criticism in guiding doctoral candidates through the process of conducting qualitative dissertation research. This article presents the experiences of one social work professor who integrates literature as a teaching tool in working with doctoral students who engage in qualitative research for their dissertations. The article will review selected recent research on dissertation advising in qualitative inquiry and will present examples of how specific concepts from literature and literary criticism can illuminate the teaching of qualitative social work research through the medium of dissertation advising. Concepts will include Keats’s “negative capability” as well as Nabokov’s reflections on Dickens’ Bleak House. Implications for one-on-one dissertation advising are offered.
The standards paradox: How quality assurance regimes can subvert teaching and learning in higher education
Authors: Brady Norman , Bates Agnieszka
Published: December 2015

The quest continues to standardise quality assurance systems throughout the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) under the auspices of the Bologna Process and led by the European Network for Quality Assurance (ENQA). Mirroring its member organisation in England, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), ENQA identifies, as one of its core aims, the development of quality assurance processes as instruments for both ‘accountability’ and ‘enhancement’. However, the recent history of QAA appears to indicate that the balance between these core aims has been lost and the discourse of accountability and efficiency prevails. This paper presents a case study of a Business Faculty (BF) in a post-1992 English university based on interviews with academics and documentary data. Findings suggest that the BF’s Quality Assurance Unit affirms the primacy of accountability and efficiency, resulting in, paradoxically, a distortion of academic professional practice. For example, undergraduate curriculum development is narrowly framed as an ‘administrative process’ from which most academics feel ‘dissociated’ and approaches to teaching appear to lack coherent organising principles beyond standardised learning outcomes expressed as ‘skills’. The paper concludes by briefly considering the implications of the case study findings for the future direction of ENQA Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance.
Priming Effects on Affective Preference for Healthy Products Over Unhealthy Products Upon Brand Exposure
Authors: Fukawa Nobuyuki
Published: December 2015

Social marketing is often used to guide and develop interventions designed to promote healthy eating. This study investigates the potential use of priming by social marketers to intervene in marketers’ promotional efforts (brand exposure) and enhance affective preference toward healthy products over unhealthy products. More specifically, we study whether (1) consumers’ need-for-cognition (NFC) and cognitive load moderate and whether (2) familiarity response time and familiarity mediate the effect of primes on affective preference. Our study shows the expected effect of primes on affective preference among high (low) NFC consumers under high (low) cognitive load. Among high NFC consumers under high cognitive load, the familiarity response time mediated the effect of primes on affective preference. We discuss theoretical and managerial implications as well as directions for future research.
The potential role and limitations of echocardiography in acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Lazzeri Chiara , Cianchi Giovanni , Bonizzoli Manuela , Batacchi Stefano , Peris Adriano , Gensini Gian Franco
Published: December 2015

Bedside use of Doppler echocardiography is being featured as a promising, clinically useful tool in assessing the pulmonary circulation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The present review is aimed at summarizing the available evidence obtained with echocardiography on right ventricle (RV) function and pulmonary circulation in ARDS and to highlight the potential of this technique in clinical practice (only articles in English language were considered). According to the available evidence on echocardiographic findings, the following conclusions can be drawn: (a) echocardiography (transthoracic and transesophageal) has a growing role in the management ARDS patients mainly because of the strict interactions between the lung (and ventilation) and the RV and pulmonary circulation; (b) there may be a continuum of alterations in RV size and function and pulmonary circulation which may end in the development of acute cor pulmonale, probably paralleling ARDS disease severity; and (c) the detection of acute cor pulmonale should prompt intensivists to tailor their ventilatory strategy to the individual patient depending on the echocardiography findings. Bearing in mind the clinical role and growing importance of echocardiography in ARDS and the available evidence on this topic, we present a flow chart including the parameters to be measured and the timing of echo exams in ARDS patients. Despite the important progress that echocardiography has gained in the evaluation of patients with ARDS, several open questions remain and echocardiography still appears to be underused in these patients. A more systematic use of echocardiography (mainly through shared protocols) in ARDS could help intensivists to tailor the optimal treatment in individual patients as well as highlighting the limits and potential of this methodology in patients with ALI.
Carbapenem resistance: overview of the problem and future perspectives
Authors: Meletis Georgios
Published: December 2015

Carbapenem resistance, mainly among Gram-negative pathogens, is an ongoing public-health problem of global dimensions. This type of antimicrobial resistance, especially when mediated by transferable carbapenemase-encoding genes, is spreading rapidly causing serious outbreaks and dramatically limiting treatment options. In this article, important key points related to carbapenem resistance are reviewed and future perspectives are discussed.
Unintended consequences of a strategically ambiguous organizational policy selectively restricting mobile device use at work
Authors: Stephens Keri K. , Ford Jessica L.
Published: December 2015

Mobile devices have permeated organizations creating diverse communication opportunities and new organizational challenges. This case study examines one of those challenges: creating a strategically ambiguous mobile device use policy to combat misuse in an organization. We use focus group data collection and a subsequent constant comparative analysis to examine a U.S. company with an organizational policy selectively restricting mobile device access for nonmanagerial workers. The findings and resulting theoretical model reflect the tension employees face when interpreting a restrictive mobile device use policy within the context of mobile use as “taken for granted.” This tension is manifest through four unintended consequences of the strategically ambiguous policy: (a) declining productivity, (b) supervisors burdened by overwhelming tasks, (c) decreased professional mobility, and (d) fleeting organizational identification. This research offers an organizational contribution to the current work on mobiles and it provides insight into how nonmanagerial workers interpret and act when a mobile use policy is strategically ambiguous.
Do parents matter? Intergenerational ties and fertility preferences in a low-fertility context
Authors: Ji Yingchun , Chen Feinian , Cai Yong , Zheng Zhenzhen
Published: December 2015

Using data from the Jiangsu Fertility Intention and Behavior Study (JFIBS), this study examines multidimensional influences of intergenerational ties on married women’s intended and ideal family size in Jiangsu Province, China, an extremely low-fertility setting. Our results suggest that preference for a grandson and a granddaughter, and a woman’s willingness to take advice from the parental generation promotes fertility motivation. In addition, potential (or actual) childcare provision from grandparents shifts fertility intention upward. Some family influences (e.g. family size of origin) tend to be more salient from parents-in-law than from parents, reflecting the patrilineal and patriarchal tradition in China. At the same time, we do not find any pronatalistic effect of co-residence with parents or parents-in-law.
How I treat recurrent deep-vein thrombosis
Authors: Kyrle Paul A.
Published: December 2015

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is regarded a chronic disease as it often recurs. DVT affects most frequently the lower limbs and hence DVT of the leg will be the focus of this article. Whereas algorithms were developed and validated for the diagnosis of a first DVT, no such well-defined strategies exist in the case of recurrence of DVT. Likewise, the scientific evidence regarding the treatment of recurrent DVT is sparse, in particular when it comes to deciding on the duration of anticoagulation. Two typical cases of recurrent DVT, one with an unprovoked DVT and one with DVT during anticoagulation, will be presented. Based on these two clinical scenarios, algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of recurrent DVT will be put forward. The purpose of this article is to discuss strategies that can be applied in daily clinical practice by physicians who do not have access to means and measures available in specialized thrombosis centers.
Human adult stem cells derived from adipose tissue and bone marrow attenuate enteric neuropathy in the guinea-pig model of acute colitis
Authors: Stavely Rhian , Robinson Ainsley M. , Miller Sarah , Boyd Richard , Sakkal Samy , Nurgali Kulmira
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified as a viable treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). MSCs derived from bone marrow (BM-MSCs) have predominated in experimental models whereas the majority of clinical trials have used MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), thus there is little consensus on the optimal tissue source. The therapeutic efficacies of these MSCs are yet to be compared in context of the underlying dysfunction of the enteric nervous system innervating the gastrointestinal tract concomitant with IBD. This study aims to characterise the in vitro properties of MSCs and compare their in vivo therapeutic potential for the treatment of enteric neuropathy associated with intestinal inflammation.

Methods

BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs were validated and characterised in vitro. In in vivo experiments, guinea-pigs received either 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene-sulfonate acid (TNBS) for the induction of colitis or sham treatment by enema. MSCs were administered at a dose of 1x106 cells via enema 3 hours after the induction of colitis. Colon tissues were collected 24 and 72 hours after TNBS administration to assess the level of inflammation and damage to the ENS. MSC migration to the myenteric plexus in vivo was elucidated by immunohistochemistry and in vitro using a modified Boyden chamber assay.

Results

Cells exhibited multipotency and a typical surface immunophenotype for validation as bona fide MSCs. In vitro characterisation revealed distinct differences in growth kinetics, clonogenicity and cell morphology between MSC types. In vivo, BM-MSCs were comparatively more effective than AT-MSCs in attenuating leukocyte infiltration and neuronal loss in the myenteric plexus. MSCs from both sources equally ameliorated body weight loss, gross morphological damage to the colon, changes in the neurochemical coding of neuronal subpopulations and the reduction in density of extrinsic and intrinsic nerve fibres innervating the colon. MSCs from both sources migrated to the myenteric plexus in in vivo colitis and in an in vitro assay.

Conclusions

These data from in vitro experiments suggest that AT-MSCs are ideal for cellular expansion. However, BM-MSCs were more therapeutic in the treatment of enteric neuropathy and plexitis. These characteristics should be considered when deciding on the MSC tissue source.
Activation of Medulla-Projecting Perifornical Neurons Modulates the Adrenal Sympathetic Response to Hypoglycemia: Involvement of Orexin Type 2 (OX2-R) Receptors
Authors: Korim Willian S. , Llewellyn-Smith Ida J. , Verberne Anthony J. M.
Published: December 2015

Iatrogenic hypoglycemia in response to insulin treatment is commonly experienced by patients with type 1 diabetes and can be life threatening. The body releases epinephrine in an attempt to counterregulate hypoglycemia, but the neural mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain to be elucidated. Orexin neurons in the perifornical hypothalamus (PeH) project to the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) and are likely to be involved in epinephrine secretion during hypoglycemia. In anesthetized rats, we report that hypoglycemia increases the sympathetic preganglionic discharge to the adrenal gland by activating PeH orexin neurons that project to the RVLM (PeH-RVLM). Electrophysiological characterization shows that the majority of identified PeH-RVLM neurons, including a subpopulation of orexin neurons, are activated in response to hypoglycemia or glucoprivation. Furthermore, the excitatory input from the PeH is mediated by orexin type 2 receptors in the RVLM. These results suggest that activation of orexin PeH-RVLM neurons and orexin type 2 receptors in the RVLM facilitates epinephrine release by increasing sympathetic drive to adrenal chromaffin cells during hypoglycemia.
Comparisons of Perceptions and Behavior in Ticket Queues and Physical Queues
Authors: Kuzu Kaan
Published: December 2015

Ticket queues are systems that issue tickets to customers upon their arrival. Although ticket queues are preferred by many service providers, there is limited research on ticket queues, especially on customer perceptions of, preferences for, and behavior in these systems. We conducted a series of surveys to understand customer preferences and patience in a ticket queue and a physical queue (stand-in-line system) and to investigate whether the assumptions used in analytical queuing models for customer abandonment behavior are realistic. Study results indicate that subjects generally prefer ticket queues over physical queues and have greater patience in ticket queues than they do in physical queues. In addition, we observe that subjects are willing to wait longer than they initially were, assuming that they already have spent some time waiting in line. Using the survey results, we ran a series of simulation models by adjusting the traditional queuing assumptions and showed the impact of customer behavior on system performance measures in ticket and physical queues. Our results can assist managers, in determining the type of queue to implement under various service settings, and researchers, in modeling more realistic queuing systems.