bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear surface and nonlocal piezoelasticity theories for vibration of embedded single-layer boron nitride sheet using harmonic differential quadrature and differential cubature methods
Authors: Arani A Ghorbanpour , Fereidoon A , Kolahchi R
Published: June 2014

Surface stress and small-scale effects on nonlinear vibration analysis of a single-layer boron nitride sheet are investigated based on theories of nonlocal and surface piezoelasticity. The single-layer boron nitride sheet is embedded in an elastic medium which is simulated by Pasternak model. Considering electromechanical coupling, the discretize governing equations of motion are obtained by Hamilton’s principal. Two numerical methods, harmonic differential quadrature and differential cubature, are employed to determine the nondimensional nonlinear frequency of single-layer boron nitride sheet. The detailed study parameters are conducted to investigate the influences of the small-scale, temperature change, surface effects, elastic medium, vibrational mode, aspect ratio, and smartness of sheet on the nonlinear nonlocal vibration characteristics of single-layer boron nitride sheet. It is concluded that ignoring surface and small-scale effects lead to inaccurate results in vibrational response of the single-layer boron nitride sheet. Furthermore, differential cubature method yields accurate results with less computational effort with respect to harmonic differential quadrature method. The obtained results of this study may be useful for designing of nano-electro mechanical system or micro-electro mechanical system and other nano-/micro-smart structures.
Impact of viscoelastic properties on bucky-gel actuator performance
Authors: Kruusamäe Karl , Mukai Ken , Sugino Takushi , Asaka Kinji
Published: June 2014

Due to their soft polymeric backbone and metal-free compositions, bending electromechanically active bucky-gel laminates are attractive candidates for actuators in applications in a variety of fields such as medicine and space technology. However, the soft structure of these materials also proposes challenges to engineering new devices as the unorthodox composition requires that the developer really understands the mechanical nature of these actuators. As the composition of bucky-gel laminates includes porous polymer filled with ionic liquid but also carbon nanotubes, the viscoelastic nature and how it possibly affects actuator performance is of great interest. Several customised mechanical tests are implemented on both electrically active and inactive bending bucky-gel actuators to investigate their mechanical properties. It is reported that these materials are highly viscoelastic and their mechanical relaxation can be described by generalised Maxwell model for solids. Moreover, these viscoelastic effects are shown to depend on the level of input voltage, thus, altering the overall performance of the actuator. Temperature measurements reveal remarkable thermal dissipation during the actuation cycles, which, as the dynamic measurements demonstrate, alters the mechanical properties of bucky-gel actuators.
Examining Circle of Security™
Authors: Mercer Jean
Published: June 2014

The Circle of Security™ interventions are psychosocial treatments intended to increase maternal sensitivity and thus child attachment security in infants and young children. A small number of publications have reported empirical research on outcomes of these treatments. This article reviews the research evidence, plausibility, theoretical background, and generalizability of Circle of Security, and concludes that these interventions are plausible emerging treatments, presently weakly supported by research evidence, but potentially able to receive support from further research. The commercialization of Circle of Security is discussed as a possible obstacle to independent research. The current level of research support is described as similar to support for other interventions for young children.
Understanding the Needs of Food-Allergic Adults
Authors: Peniamina Rana Lori , Bremer Philip , Conner Tamlin S. , Mirosa Miranda
Published: June 2014

Food allergies are a growing issue, yet society’s understanding of how individuals’ lives are affected is limited. We conducted four focus groups with food-allergic adults in New Zealand to gain an in-depth understanding of the issues that impacted their quality of life. Key themes identified included allergen-free eating issues, health care system issues, costs of having a food allergy, effects on well-being, external influences (e.g., others’ lack of awareness), and internal influences (personal growth and adaptation). The unmet needs of food-allergic adults led to risk taking, increased stress, and social isolation. A lack of awareness in others (including medical professionals, food service providers, and the general public) had a negative impact, suggesting that an intervention targeting awareness would be beneficial. Adaptation, particularly in terms of assertiveness and organizational skills, was important for coping, so we suggest training in these skills be made available for food-allergic patients.
Prior Study of Cross-Cultural Validation of McGill Quality-of-Life Questionnaire in Mainland Mandarin Chinese Patients With Cancer
Authors: Hu Liya , Li Jingwen , Wang Xu , Payne Sheila , Chen Yuan , Mei Qi
Published: June 2014

The validation of McGill quality-of-life questionnaire (MQOLQ) in mainland China, which had already been used in multicultural palliative care background including Hong Kong and Taiwan, remained unknown. Eligible patients completed the translated Chinese version of McGill questionnaires (MQOL-C), which had been examined before the study. Construct validity was preliminarily assessed through exploratory factor analysis extracting 4 factors that construct a new hypothesis model and then the original model was proved to be better confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency of all the subscales was within 0.582 to 0.917. Furthermore, test–retest reliability ranged from 0.509 to 0.859, which was determined by Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Face validation and feasibility also confirm the good validity of MQOL-C. The MQOL-C has satisfied validation in mainland Chinese patients with cancer, although cultural difference should be considered while using it.
Understanding the Views of Those Who Care for Patients With Cancer on Advance Care Planning and End-of-life Care
Authors: Mattes Malcolm D. , Tung Kaity , Baum Rachel , Parikh Kapila , Ashamalla Hani
Published: June 2014

An electronic survey was used to assess the views of a diverse nationwide cohort of health care professionals regarding advance care planning and end-of-life care. A total of 645 responses were received. If diagnosed with a serious incurable illness with limited life expectancy, 97% would want to discuss their prognosis, 74% would refuse cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and 72% favored supportive/comfort care to more aggressive life-prolonging treatments. However, prognosis was thought to be discussed with only 52% of such patients, and just 5% thought doctors were either very or extremely successful at explaining advanced life-sustaining treatments to patients. Greater than 90% believed these discussions should best occur when a patient is thought to have one or more years to live and 80% thought they are best initiated in the outpatient setting.
Relationship Between Standardized Glycemic Protocols and Healthcare Cost
Authors: Coto Jeffrey A. , Yehle Karen S. , Foli Karen J.
Published: June 2014

Rising healthcare costs and the management of diabetes are financially straining to healthcare organizations. The study purpose was to examine whether a direct relationship existed between the cost of hospitalization, length of stay, excess admission days, and discharge blood glucose (DC-BG) levels and utilizing a standardized glycemic protocol. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted of adult diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM-2) patients’ pre-diabetic protocol (January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011) and post-diabetic protocol (August 1, 2012-October 31, 2012). The sample included DM-2 inpatients aged ≥18 years admitted without complications and/or with abnormal fasting blood glucose. Pre-protocol sample comprised n = 346 subjects and post-protocol sample comprised n = 149 subjects. Patients who received the diabetic protocol in 2012 experienced a decrease in the DC-BG ( p < .05) and decrease in excess admission days ( p < .05). Evidence supports that utilizing a standardized glycemic protocol improves glycemic control and reduces healthcare cost.
Patient-Level Medication Regimen Complexity in Patients With HIV
Authors: Metz Kelli R. , Fish Douglas N. , Hosokawa Patrick W. , Hirsch Jan D. , Libby Anne M.
Published: June 2014

Background: Patients with HIV often have multiple medications besides antiretrovirals (ARV). Medication regimen complexity—formulations, dosing frequencies, and additional directions—expands pill burden by considering self-care demands. Studies show an inverse association between ARV adherence and medication complexity for ARVs only. Patient-level medication regimen complexity beyond ARV complexity is unknown. Objective: To measure and characterize Patient-level Medication Regimen Complexity Index (pMRCI) and Antiretroviral Medication Regimen Complexity Index (ARCI) for patients in 2 HIV clinics. We hypothesized that an all-medication complexity metric will exceed disease-state-defined complexity metrics; for ARVs only, the pMRCI score will be smaller than the ARCI score by capturing fewer features of regimens. Associations between complexity and adherence were not assessed. Method: Electronic records supplied a retrospective, random sample of adult patients with HIV; medication lists were used to code the pMRCI (n=200). A random subsample (n=66) was coded using ARCI for ARV regimens only. Result: Medication counts ranged from 1 to 27; pMRCI scores ranged from 2 to 67.5. ARVs contributed roughly 25% to the pMRCI; other prescriptions contributed about 66%. Dosing frequency made the largest contribution of all components (62%) to the pMRCI. For ARVs, pMRCI and ARCI scores did not differ statistically. Conclusion: Unique dosing frequencies raised complexity and may provide opportunities for intervention. Other prescriptions drove pMRCI scores, suggesting that HIV management programs should review all medications. A patient-level approach added value to understanding the role of medications in patient complexity; future work can assess association of pMRCI with adherence and patient outcomes.
A Global Perspective on Public Relations Professionalism
Authors: Yang Aimei , Taylor Maureen
Published: June 2014

Associations play a powerful role in socializing practitioners. The presence of public relations associations across the world is one more step toward professionalization for the entire profession. This study examines the structure of global public relations professionalization manifested through the networks among international and national public relations professional associations. The findings of a cross-national, multilevel network analysis suggest that despite the overall dominance of international public relations associations, at the regional level, local centers have also emerged. In addition, European public relations associations have developed more relationships with other national, regional, and international associations than American-based professional associations.
You’ve Come a Short Way, Baby
Authors: Grandy Karen
Published: June 2014

This article examines the inclusion of female sources in feature articles in American and Canadian business magazines and compares the findings from its 2011-12 sample with corresponding labor force data, and also with the results of a research study conducted twenty years earlier. While results revealed a shift in the occupations most often included as sources in the publications, women accounted for only 15.2% of sources in the 2011-12 sample and are still underrepresented in comparison with occupation data, as they were in 1991-92.
Dosing algorithm for concomitant administration of sirolimus, tacrolimus, and an azole after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Peksa Gary D , Schultz Kathryn , Fung Henry C
Published: June 2014

Background

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients are at risk of invasive fungal infections and prophylaxis with azole agents is common practice. The concomitant use of these agents with sirolimus and tacrolimus for the prevention of graft-versus-host disease may result in excessive immunosuppression or toxicity.

Methods

This retrospective study identified hospitalized patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation between August 2009 and April 2011 at Rush University Medical Center. From this group, patients who underwent concomitant tacrolimus, sirolimus, and azole therapy were included for evaluation. The immunosuppression dosing in conjunction with azole use at discharge was analyzed to develop a dosing algorithm dependent on whether fluconazole, posaconazole, or voriconazole was used.

Results

A total of 36 patients were screened for inclusion, of which 8 were excluded due to acute renal failure and/or hemolysis. The remaining patients were stratified by the azole they were concomitantly taking with tacrolimus and sirolimus. The fluconazole arm required the lowest magnitude of dose reductions, while voriconazole required the greatest.

Conclusion

Dose reductions of 50–75% for both sirolimus and tacrolimus, in combination with standard dosing of azole antifungal agents, were necessary to achieve therapeutic drug concentrations for immunosuppressants and potentially avoid toxicities.
Assessing the Performance of the “Counterfactual as Self-Estimated by Program Participants”
Authors: Mueller Christoph Emanuel , Gaus Hansjoerg
Published: June 2014

In this article, we test an alternative approach to creating a counterfactual basis for estimating individual and average treatment effects. Instead of using control/comparison groups or before-measures, the so-called Counterfactual as Self-Estimated by Program Participants (CSEPP) relies on program participants’ self-estimations of their own counterfactual at the end of an intervention. In an empirical study, a randomized experiment was employed as a benchmark to examine the performance of the CSEPP. The results suggest that the approach is capable of delivering comparatively reliable estimates of short- and midterm effects on behavioral intentions and attitudes. With regard to the estimation of treatment effects on self-reported behavior, however, the findings are more ambiguous.
Insulin detemir treatment in diabetic cats in a practice setting
Authors: Hoelmkjaer Kirsten Madsen , Spodsberg Eva-Maria Hohneck , Bjornvad Charlotte Reinhard
Published: June 2014

Insulin detemir is a long-acting insulin analogue and may represent a valuable treatment option for diabetic cats. So far, only one study addressing detemir treatment of diabetic cats has been published, and this was based on an intensive blood glucose monitoring protocol. The aim of the current, retrospective study was to evaluate the effect of detemir therapy in diabetic cats in a general clinical setting. Fourteen diabetic cats with a follow-up period of at least 3 months were included. Data were collected from medical records at the University Hospital for Companion Animals, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. Thirteen of 14 cats achieved moderate or excellent control of clinical symptoms within the initial 3 months of detemir therapy, including five cats previously treated unsuccessfully with other types of insulin. Clinical improvements were noted after 1 month of therapy and continued over time. Three cats achieved remission within the initial 3 months and none experienced a diabetic relapse during the study period. One cat achieved remission after 13 months of therapy. Improvements in clinical symptoms were markedly better than indicated by blood glucose and serum fructosamine concentrations. The safety of detemir was very high, with only two reported episodes of clinical hypoglycaemia, neither of which required veterinary attention. Based on these results detemir can be recommended for the treatment of diabetic cats, including cats previously treated unsuccessfully with other types of insulin.
Racing all over the place: A dispersion model of international regulatory competition
Authors: Barkin J. Samuel
Published: June 2014

There is a large body of literature, both within academic International Relations and in popular discourses, about globalization and regulatory convergence, either through regulatory races to the bottom or the upwards harmonization of regulatory standards. Neither pattern is well supported by empirical findings with respect to industries that can easily move offshore in search of lower regulatory standards. Rather, global patterns of regulation in these industries tend toward dispersion rather than conversion either upward or downward. There is as yet, however, little work in the International Relations literature on how to understand these patterns of global regulatory dispersion, in which states attract offshore business by establishing differentiated regulatory niches. One of the key models of regulatory dispersion in the economics literature was developed by Charles Tiebout in the context of the provision of municipal services, but several International Relations scholars have noted that the assumptions of the model are not appropriate to international regulatory competition. This article develops a model of international regulatory heterogeneity that draws on Tiebout’s, and that describes patterns of regulatory dispersion in industries that engage in international regulatory arbitrage. It explains both specific patterns of dispersion and mechanisms for increasing average regulatory levels over time.
The supply side of United Nations peacekeeping operations: Trade ties and United Nations-led deployments to civil war states
Authors: Stojek Szymon M. , Tir Jaroslav
Published: June 2014

Peacekeeping operations have been identified as the most effective and efficient solution to the highly intractable problem of civil war recurrence; yet, only about 38% of civil wars receive peacekeeping assistance. To explain what determines whether an intrastate conflict receives a deployment of peacekeepers, we note that peacekeeping operations are costly endeavors requiring significant material investments. Focusing on the United Nations and its peacekeeping operations, we argue that because a relatively small group of states decides about (and funds) possible deployments, the supply of United Nations peacekeeping operations likely reflects the interests of these states. Specifically, we hypothesize that trade ties between the five permanent members of the Security Council and civil war states are among the factors that influence the decision to authorize United Nations peacekeeping operations. Testing the argument over the post-World War II and post-Cold War periods reveals that the economic interests of the permanent five members of the Security Council play a key role in explaining which civil wars receive United Nations peacekeepers.
Association of elevated fasting glucose with lower patency and increased major adverse limb events among patients with diabetes undergoing infrapopliteal balloon angioplasty
Authors: Singh Satinder , Armstrong Ehrin J , Sherif Walid , Alvandi Bejan , Westin Gregory G , Singh Gagan D , Amsterdam Ezra A , Laird John R
Published: June 2014

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant risk factor for loss of patency after endovascular intervention, but the contribution of glycemic control to infrapopliteal artery patency among patients with DM is unknown. All percutaneous infrapopliteal interventions among patients with DM from 2006 to 2013 were reviewed and pre-procedure fasting blood glucose (FBG) was recorded. The primary endpoint was primary patency at 1 year as determined by duplex ultrasound. A total of 309 infrapopliteal lesions in 149 patients with DM were treated with balloon angioplasty during the study period. The median FBG was 144 mg/dL. At 1 year, the rate of primary patency was 16% for patients with FBG above the median, compared to 46% for patients with FBG below the median (hazard ratio (HR) 1.82 for FBG ≥144, p=0.005). Amputation rates at 1 year trended higher among patients with high versus low FBG (24% vs 15%, p=0.1). One year major adverse limb event rates were also higher for patients with high versus low FBG (35% vs 23%, p=0.05). Although patients with high FBG were more likely to have insulin-requiring DM (73% vs 50%, p=0.003) the association of high FBG with loss of primary patency remained significant even after adjusting for insulin use as well as other lesion-specific characteristics (adjusted HR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.8). In conclusion, high fasting blood glucose at the time of infrapopliteal balloon angioplasty is associated with significantly decreased primary patency and may also be a risk factor for major adverse limb events among patients with a threatened limb.
Median arcuate ligament syndrome: Use of fractional flow reserve in documentation of chronic mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Sadiq Immad R , Abdulbaki Abdulrahman , Azemi Talhat
Published: June 2014

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a rare clinical entity. This condition typically affects women between the ages of 20 and 40 years and causes symptoms of abdominal pain, primarily post-prandial, as well as nausea, vomiting and weight loss. MALS is considered a diagnosis of exclusion. Typically, mesenteric arterial duplex ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance (MR) are highly suggestive, and conventional contrast angiography confirmatory. We explore the role of fractional flow reserve and intravascular ultrasound in the evaluation of MALS. In order to illustrate the utility of these tools, we present the case of a 47-year-old symptomatic woman who underwent angiography, complemented by assessment of fractional flow reserve and intravascular ultrasound. These data convincingly demonstrated the dynamic nature of the obstructive characteristic of MALS.
Beyond links: Understanding meaning and control in political blogs
Authors: Costa e Silva Elsa
Published: June 2014

The use of hyperlinks in blogs produces hypertexts, which are characterized by an irregular and not sequential organization. Contrary to the narrative structures in which the author exercises his authority by setting an order of events, hypertexts compromise the integrity of authorship. Blog hyperlinking thus challenges traditional notion of authorship and control exercised over the speech produced. Political contexts, such as those inhabited by politicians and news providers, are quite sensitive to these compromises as control over meanings is seen as problematic. The use of a hyperlink can be seen as willingness to renounce to full control, but acknowledging its presence is insufficient to analyze its effects in the meaning of the posts. This article argues that a qualitative assessment of links is necessary if a full understanding of hyperlinks implications is to be provided. It proposes a model of analysis with three levels of compromising: referential, accessory, and compulsory.
Online, all the time? A quantitative assessment of the permanent campaign on Facebook
Authors: Larsson Anders Olof
Published: June 2014

Many claims have been made regarding the influence of social media like Facebook on activities undertaken by political actors. While the study of online political communication provides several different perspectives, few studies have attempted to uncover tendencies of so-called permanent campaigning in online environments. The term signifies campaign-like activities at the hands of politicians also during non-election periods and has spawned a number of conceptual discussions. This article presents an exploratory effort, studying traces of permanent campaigning in two similar countries—Norway and Sweden. As the former of these countries underwent a parliamentary election during the studied period, the study provides insights into “the election effect”—heightened levels of online activity among the Norwegian parties and politicians that can perhaps best be understood in relation to an ongoing election.
Transition from the spouse dementia caregiver role: A change for the better?
Authors: Brown Lynsey J , Bond Malcolm J
Published: June 2014

One in 15 Australians over 65 experience dementia, and are commonly supported by spouses. Evidence demonstrates declining wellbeing for these caregivers as their role continues. There are indications of improvement once caregivers transition out of the role (recovery) but alternate suggestions that caregiving stress may be too damaging to be appeased (wear and tear). It seems plausible that reason for transition (care recipient’s move into residential care or death) will affect caregivers’ outcomes. A synthetic cohort method compared caregivers’ stress and wellbeing prior to, and one and two years post-transition. There was evidence of wear and tear for physical wellbeing but recovery for psychological wellbeing over time; with little difference based on reason for transition. Caregiver outcomes seem to be a function of the action rather than the reason for transition, but factors such as age must be considered when designing methods to support post-transition wellbeing.
Conducting safe research with at-risk populations: Design strategies from a study with unauthorized immigrant women experiencing intimate abuse
Authors: Kyriakakis Stavroula , Waller Bernadine , Kagotho Njeri , Edmond Tonya
Published: June 2014

Social science research with vulnerable populations is necessary in order to address social and health problems among those in most need; yet, this research is fraught with inherent risks to its participants. Using the recent experience of conducting a study of Mexican immigrant women’s experience of intimate partner violence and help-seeking, the authors describe strategies used to prevent harm to participants. For this community of women, participation in research has the potential to expose them to physical, psychological, economic, and legal harm. Safety protocols are discussed in the areas of recruitment, interviewing, data management, and the report of findings. These foremost strategies inform the safe design of research with other similarly at-risk populations.
The influence of luminance, observation duration and procedure on the recognition of pedestrians’ faces
Authors: Dong M , Fotios S , Lin Y
Published: June 2014

Past studies carried out to determine whether the spectral power distribution of a light source affects facial recognition have led to mixed results. One reason for this could be that different studies presented different levels of task difficulty, this being a function of target size, observation duration and type of procedure. This paper presents two facial recognition experiments carried out using matching and identification procedures to explore task difficulty as defined by observation duration and target luminance. It was confirmed that identification is more difficult than matching. A relationship between task difficulty (luminance and duration) and recognition probability was found and this allows the luminance to be determined for a given probability.
The Effect of Recruit Quality on College Football Team Performance
Authors: Bergman Stephen A. , Logan Trevon D.
Published: June 2014

Previous studies have examined the effect of recruiting classes on team performance in college football and found a positive correlation between recruiting classes and success on the field. The relationship between recruit quality and team performance may be overstated, however, if the effect is driven by heterogeneity between teams. In this article, we analyze the effect of recruit quality on team performance controlling for school fixed effects. We collected data from recruiting services to obtain the number of individual recruits by ex ante star rating for every Football Bowl Division (FBS) school for the years 2002-2012. We also record team performance in the regular season and postseason during the same time period. We find that controlling for between-school heterogeneity lowers the estimated effect of recruit quality on wins by more than 25%, but the remaining effect is still statistically and economically significant. Furthermore, we find that within-school variation in recruit quality is an important determinant of the probability of an appearance in the most lucrative bowl games. Our within-school estimates imply that a 5-star recruit is worth more than US$150,000 in expected Bowl Championship Series bowl proceeds to an individual school.
Prognosis of Short Survival in Patients With Advanced Dementia as Diagnosed by Aminoff Suffering Syndrome
Authors: Aminoff Bechor Zvi
Published: June 2014

On the first few days after admission to the Geriatric-Internal Medicine department, the suffering level of patients with advanced dementia (Mini-Mental State Examination 0 of 30) was evaluated according to the Mini-Suffering State Examination (MSSE). During hospitalization, 14.8% (27 of 183) of patients with advanced dementia were died with a mean survival rate of 19.86 ± 26.9 days. The MSSE scale score of died patients was 7.56 ± 1.71 during the first few days of admission which indicates high suffering levels. The MSSE scale score of survived patients with advanced dementia was 3.99 ± 2.10 which confirms their low level of suffering. There was a significant difference (P < .001) between the groups. Patients with dementia who died and were diagnosed as having Aminoff suffering syndrome during the first few days of admission had a high suffering level and short-survival time.
Expression of MMP-2, MT1-MMP, and TIMP-2 by cultured rabbit corneal fibroblasts under mechanical stretch
Authors: Liu Chengxing , Feng Pengfei , Li Xiaona , Song Jie , Chen Weiyi
Published: June 2014

Refractive surgery not only leads to tissue injury but also evokes mechanical stress increase of the cornea. How the mechanical stress affects the corneal matrix remodeling, specifically, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases; TIMPs) is not well understood. In this study, cultured rabbit corneal fibroblasts in vitro were subjected to regimen of 5%, 10%, or 15% equibiaxial stretch at 0.1 Hz for 3 or 24 h. MMP-2 protein level was measured by gelatin zymography and Western blotting. MMP-2, membrane type 1 MMP (MT1-MMP), and TIMP-2 mRNA levels were quantified by real-time quantitative PCR. Extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) phosphorylation protein levels were assessed by Western blotting. Our results showed that a 15% stretch resulted in increases in MMP-2 protein, MMP-2 mRNA, and MT1-MMP mRNA levels, but a decrease in TIMP-2 mRNA level. However, a 5% stretch caused decreases in MMP-2 protein and mRNA level, but an increase in TIMP-2 mRNA level, and no change in MT1-MMP mRNA level. A 15% stretch also caused a significant increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Inhibition of the mitogenactivated protein kinase (MEK) pathway with PD98059 attenuated stretch-induced increase in MMP-2 production and ERK activity. These results suggest that small-magnitude stretching may promote corneal matrix synthetic events, whereas large-magnitude stretching promotes corneal matrix degradation by changing the balance between MMPs and TIMPs in corneal fibroblasts. Large-magnitude stretch-induced increase in pro-MMP-2 production was in an ERK-dependent manner.
Methylation patterns of estrogen receptor α promoter correlate with estrogen receptor α expression and clinicopathological factors in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dai Binghua , Geng Li , Yu Yong , Sui Chengjun , Xie Feng , Shen Weifeng , Zheng Tao , Yang Jiamei
Published: June 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the seventh most common type of cancer; notably, the incidence of HCC is four to eight times higher in men than women. Previous studies reported that the estrogen receptor (ER) signaling pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of HCC, although the extent of its involvement is unclear due to several conflicting reports. In the present study, tumor and paired adjacent non-cancerous tissues from 157 HCC patients were collected. Transcriptome sequencing and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to quantify the ER α (ESR1) expression levels, and the Sequenom EpiTYPER assay was used to delineate the methylation patterns in the ESR1 promoter. We found that ESR1 expression was significantly reduced in tumor tissues ( P < 0.001) compared to adjacent non-cancerous tissues. The CpG sites around the transcription start site were significantly hypermethylated in the tumor ( P < 0.0001). This methylation pattern also correlated with the gene expression ( P < 0.0001). Additionally, we found that the hypermethylation of ESR1 was associated with the presence of fibrous capsules ( P = 1.2 × 10−4), the absence of microvascular invasions ( P = 8.0 × 10−4), thin trabecular pattern ( P = 0.025), and lower histologic gradings ( P = 5.2 × 10−3). Thus, ESR1 expression is a candidate tumor suppressor gene in HCC. Further, promoter hypermethylation may be a mechanism by which expression of ESR1 is repressed, and the extent of hypermethylation of ESR1 may be a marker for HCC status and progression.
Transformative Learning Experiences of International Graduate Students From Asian Countries
Authors: Kumi–Yeboah Alex , James Waynne
Published: June 2014

This article investigates the transformative learning experiences of international graduate students from Asian countries. Data collection consisted of quantitative and qualitative methods. Participants included international graduate students from Asia, in the Colleges of Arts and Sciences and Engineering. Overall, 82.3% of the participants reported having experienced transformative learning, while 17.7% reported no transformative experiences. Among participants who experienced transformative learning, 31.8% of the transformative experiences were associated with education only, 33.3% were by both education and noneducation, while 17.2% were noneducational. Ten participants were randomly selected to ensure representations across gender, age-group, and college for follow-up interviews. Majority of the participants experienced transformative learning as a result of both educational and noneducational activities. Major life changes such as student and faculty support, classroom discussions, new life experiences, and learning a new language emerged from the follow-up interviews.
Inquiry in Action for Leadership in Turbulent Times
Authors: Nicolaides Aliki , McCallum David C.
Published: June 2014

This article discusses the theory and practices associated with a methodology for leadership capacity development that utilizes Collaborative Developmental Action Inquiry to support adults in understanding the connections between transformative learning and adaptive leadership. Discussion is focused on transformative learning, ways of knowing, or action logics and single-, double-, and triple-loop learning.
Improvement of Neurofeedback Therapy for Improved Attention Through Facilitation of Brain Activity Using Local Sinusoidal Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure
Authors: Zandi Mehran Yasaman , Firoozabadi Mohammad , Rostami Reza
Published: June 2014

Traditional neurofeedback (NF) is a training approach aimed at altering brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG) rhythms as feedback. In NF training, external factors such as the subjects’ intelligence can have an effect. In contrast, a low-energy NF system (LENS) does not require conscious effort from the subject, which results in fewer attendance sessions. However, eliminating the subject role seems to eliminate an important part of the NF system. This study investigated the facilitating effect on the theta-to-beta ratio from NF training, using a local sinusoidal extremely low frequency magnetic field (LSELF-MF) versus traditional NF. Twenty-four healthy, intelligent subjects underwent 10 training sessions to enhance beta (15-18 Hz), and simultaneously inhibit theta (4-7 Hz) and high beta (22-30 Hz) activity, at the Cz point in a 3-boat-race video game. Each session consisted of 3 statuses, PRE, DURING, and POST. In the DURING status, the NF training procedure lasted 10 minutes. Subjects were led to believe that they would be exposed to a magnetic field during NF training; however, 16 of the subjects who were assigned to the experimental group were really exposed to 45 Hz–360 µT LSELF-MF at Cz. For the 8 other subjects, only the coil was located at the Cz point with no exposure. The duty cycle of exposure was 40% (2-second exposure and 3-second pause). The results show that the theta-to-beta ratio in the DURING status of each group differs significantly from the PRE and POST statuses. Between-group analysis shows that the theta-to-beta ratio in the DURING status of the experimental group is significantly ( P < .001) lower than in the sham group. The result shows the effect of LSELF-MF on NF training.
Understanding Domestic Violence Against Muslim Women in China
Authors: Niu Xuan , Laidler Karen A. Joe
Published: June 2014

The abusive experiences of Hui Muslim women in China are understudied. Data from interviews with 14 women who lived in west China examine the dynamic nature of domestic violence they have experienced. The Hui women were vulnerable to the violence because of their low social status and minority ethnic identity. Under the oppressions, a fear of being ignored, discriminated, and marginalized resulted in the women’s tolerance or silence toward abuse. However, the Hui women are not only powerless but also resistant to violence. Their negotiation of the self under a social control and structural inequality reveals their autonomy and wisdom.
Practical application of bedside diagnostics in determining limb viability
Authors: Dua Anahita , Desai Sapan S , Coogan Sheila
Published: June 2014

Introduction

This study aimed to determine the practical application of vascular lab studies in determining limb salvage outcomes in injured patients with concerning clinical examinations.

Methods

A retrospective review of the trauma registry at a level I center was conducted from January 2009 to June 2013. All patients >16 years of age who sustained a lower limb arterial injury had a concerning clinical exam (mottled skin, decreased skin warmth, diminished pulses) and had vascular lab studies to determine management were included. Data-points included demographics, type and location of injury, procedure type, vascular lab study results, and limb outcome.

Results

Over a five-year period, 11 trauma patients met inclusion criteria. Five of these patients had concerning clinical exams after revascularization, and six observed patients had a concerning clinical examination during the course of their hospitalization. All 11 patients had vascular lab studies that were within normal limits. As a result of normal vascular lab studies, none of these patients underwent further imaging or intervention. None of these patients underwent amputation.

Conclusion

Vascular lab studies may be utilized to determine the need for intervention and/or lower limb bypass sufficiency in patients with questionable clinical examinations post injury.
Surviving an abdominal aortic aneurysm type II endoleak rupture without surgical intervention
Authors: Smith Jeremy C , Walker Stuart R
Published: June 2014

We describe a patient who survived a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm without any surgical intervention. The patient had previously had endovascular repair of the aneurysm and surveillance of a stable persistent type II endoleak. This case highlights the difficulties surrounding type II endoleak, its natural history, and the ongoing controversies of its management.
Constructing or rejecting the notion of the other in university management
Authors: O’Connor Pat , Goransson Anita
Published: June 2014

We focus on gender stereotypes in West European university management by comparing two countries: Sweden and Ireland. In secular Sweden there are strong policies that are implemented at all political levels supported by the public discourse; while in Ireland such measures are few and the equality infrastructures and discourse have been weakened by the state. In Sweden women have come to dominate the Rector/President/Vice Chancellor positions and each gender has between 40 and 50 per cent of the other leading positions. In Ireland there are no women in the top position and their percentage of other leading positions is between 13-25 per cent. Drawing on interview data from senior ‘manager academics’ (Deem, 2003) in Irish and Swedish universities this article shows that in Sweden traditional gender stereotypes are not credible anymore-with senior manager-academics not seeing such stereotypes as mirroring reality. Thus, even if they acknowledge the existence of stereotypes, they distance themselves from them. In Ireland traditional stereotypes still have more of a grip on manager-academics. These country differences are seen in the context of different gender orders in the respective countries. It seems that more areas are still gendered in Irish society in comparison with Sweden, and the gender order is stronger and more hierarchical. Thus it appears that by actively recruiting women in leading positions in a societal context that supports feminist values, traditional stereotypes may be reduced. On the other hand gendered stereotypes in the absence of such a context reflect and reinforce patterns that legitimise and valorise men’s and women’s positions within hierarchical gendered structures.
Simulation analysis of paddling motions in a single kayak: Development of a comprehensive dynamic model of a paddler, paddle and hull
Authors: Nakashima Motomu , Yamazaki Shingo , Yue Janice , Nakagaki Kohei
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study was to develop a comprehensive dynamic model of the paddler, paddle and hull for a simulation analysis of the paddling motion in a single kayak. In the development of the model, a similar simulation model, not for the kayak, but for human swimming, was utilized. The paddler was represented as a series of 21 truncated elliptic cones. The paddle was represented as three truncated elliptic cones for the two blades and shaft. For the hull, an extension of the original simulation model to represent the detailed three-dimensional hull shape was carried out. In the extended hull model, the thin elliptic plate was replaced by a plate with a detailed cross-sectional shape. The paddler, paddle and hull in the model were connected by means of virtual springs and dampers. The geometries of the paddler, paddle and hull were acquired based on the experiments that measured them. The joint motion of the paddler was measured by means of motion analysis as well. By inputting the acquired data, simulation of the paddling motion was conducted. From the results, it was confirmed that the joint motion acquired in the experiment was successfully input into the simulation. It was also confirmed that the paddler, paddle and the hull were successfully connected by the virtual springs and dampers. In the simulation, the averaged velocity of the hull in the propulsive direction was 3.40 m/s, which was 11% lower than the actual value of 3.8 m/s.
Analyse qualitative de l’intégration de l’éducation sexuelle des jeunes dans les médias audio-visuels à Kinshasa en République Démocratique du Congo
Authors: Nsakala Gabriel V. , Coppieters Yves , Kayembe Patrick K.
Published: June 2014

L’éducation sexuelle par les médias de masse contribue positivement à la prévention des infections sexuellement transmissibles (IST)/VIH et des grossesses précoces auprès des jeunes. L’objectifs de cette étude sont d’appréhender le niveau d’intégration de l’éducation sexuelle dans les émissions de santé à Kinshasa en République Démocratique du Congo et d’identifier les facteurs facilitant et limitant l’éducation sexuelle des jeunes dans les programmes audio-visuels congolais.

Une triangulation des données provenant de la revue documentaire, de l’observation directe de quatre émissions de santé et des entretiens semi-directifs auprès des 15 responsables de programme audiovisuels, a été exploitée. Une étude de cas d’une expérience réussie dans le domaine a été complétée.

Bien qu’il soit observé une programmation de quelques émissions de santé dans les grands médias audiovisuels de Kinshasa, leur potentiel pour l’éducation sexuelle n’est que très faiblement exploité. Dans les quatre médias observés, les émissions de santé sont diffusées à des heures de faible audience, et effleurent superficiellement l’éducation sexuelle dans un contexte de prévention des IST/VIH. La participation d’experts n’est pas systématique ; le cas échéant, leur expression n’est pas souvent adaptée à la compréhension du grand public. De plus en plus, ces programmes offrent les possibilités d’interactivité avec la communauté via le téléphone mobile. Parmi les obstacles à l’éducation sexuelle dans les média audiovisuels, il a été identifié le manque de clarté de la loi relative à la liberté de la presse, associée à la peur de la répression ; les freins liés aux considérations socioculturelles, la faible disponibilité de l’expertise, les préjugés sur la non préférence de ces types d’émissions par le public et le manque de retombées financières de ces programmes. Au regard des bénéfices de l’éducation sexuelle sur la vie et le bien-être des jeunes, une meilleure interprétation de la loi, une fédération des acteurs techniques du gouvernement, des partenaires et des médias autour d’un plan conjoint et le focus sur l’éducation aux médias dans le cursus de formation scolaire et universitaire, s’avèrent nécessaires et appropriés pour la protection des générations à venir.
Establishing a disability-inclusive agenda for sustainable development in 2015 and beyond
Authors: Geiger Brian F.
Published: June 2014

Disability was omitted from the Millennium Declaration and eight Millennium Development Goals. As a result, individuals with disabilities and their advocates, health-related agencies and major United Nations (UN) groups collaborated to explicate the rights and needs of persons with disabilities. A community empowerment approach was guided by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, input from expert groups, public meetings held across the globe, questionnaires sent to civil society representatives, and rich online conversation. Persons with disabilities have the right to health, education, gainful employment, social protection, and participation in political and public life. Selected results from The World We Want consultation for the topic of ‘Inequalities and a disability-inclusive agenda’ illustrate the potential of reaching consensus among a broad array of constituents, informing decisions about policy and practice.
A call for an urgent ban on E-cigarettes in India—a race against time
Authors: Kaur Jagdish , Rinkoo Arvind Vashishta
Published: June 2014

Being the second largest consumer of tobacco in the world and with more than 65% of its population below the age of 35, India would face electronic cigarettes (ECs) as an enormous public health challenge in future. In the absence of established facilities for tobacco cessation in the country, ECs may provide an additional opportunity for the industry to project itself as a harm-reduction crusader. Regulating ECs as tobacco products or as drugs is not a prudent option in the Indian context. Banning ECs seems to be the most plausible approach at present. However, in the long run, India should be open to new research. More significantly, policy makers in India should be wary of the lead time before a ban is implemented—a shorter intervening period could ensure that a well-established, better politically connected and more defiant EC industry, aggressively promoting ECs to Indian youth, never becomes a reality.