bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of feedback timing on second language vocabulary learning: Does delaying feedback increase learning?
Authors: Nakata Tatsuya
Published: July 2014

Feedback, or information given to learners regarding their performance, is found to facilitate second language (L2) learning. Research also suggests that the timing of feedback (whether it is provided immediately or after a delay) may affect learning. The purpose of the present study was to identify the optimal feedback timing for L2 vocabulary learning. This study differs from previous feedback timing studies in two important respects. First, unlike some previous studies, feedback timing was not confounded with lag to test (interval between the last encounter with a given item and the posttest). Second, in order to test the view that delayed feedback may be particularly effective when learners make few errors during learning, the present study manipulated the frequency of practice to influence learning phase performance. In this study, 98 Japanese college students studied 16 English–Japanese word pairs. Immediate feedback was given immediately after each response, whereas delayed feedback was withheld until all target items were practised. Learning was measured by posttests administered immediately, 1 week, and 4 weeks after the treatment. Results suggested that when lag to test is controlled, feedback timing may have little effect on L2 vocabulary learning regardless of the frequency of errors during learning.
Revisiting the immigrant press
Authors: Hickerson Andrea , Gustafson Kristin L.
Published: July 2014

Over time, research on the ‘immigrant press’ in the communication field has been subsumed by other theoretical concepts, particularly ‘ethnic’ and ‘transnational’ media. This article reevaluates the relevance of the ‘immigrant press’ as a theoretically distinct concept as articulated by Park in his foundational book The Immigrant Press and its Control. Drawing on 27 interviews with editors, journalists, and publishers in three areas of the United States with different immigration histories and profiles, we conclude Park’s defining characteristics of the immigrant press – an emphasis on the specificity of the first-generation immigrant’s experience, serving as a cultural and civic translator while facilitating national identity, and being an aid to assimilation – are all applicable today, more so than the major themes expressed in literature on ethnic and transnational media.
Combination therapy with aliskiren versus ramipril or losartan added to conventional therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension and microalbuminuria
Authors: Imbalzano Egidio , Scarpelli Mirko , Mandraffino Giuseppe , Creazzo Michele , Lizio Giuseppina , Trapani Giovanni , Dattilo Giuseppe , Dalbeni Andrea , Tomasello Carmelo , Sardo Maria Adriana , Saitta Antonino
Published: July 2014

Hypothesis/Introduction:

The aim of this study was to assess the antihypertensive efficacy and safety of aliskiren versus ramipril or losartan in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, microalbuminuria and uncontrolled hypertension, despite the use of optimal conventional antihypertensive therapy.

Materials and methods:

In this open-label active comparator study, 126 patients were randomly assigned to receive 24 weeks of additional therapy with aliskiren (Group A) or either losartan or ramipril (Group B), according to whether a patient was already treated with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or an angiotensin receptor blocker, respectively.

Results:

After 24 weeks, both treatment groups experienced a significant reduction of systolic blood pressure (−11.37% and −8.47%, respectively; both p <0.001 vs. baseline) and diastolic blood pressure levels (−10.67% and −9.28%, respectively; both p <0.001 vs. baseline), with a greater reduction of mean systolic values in Group A compared with Group B ( p <0.001). Furthermore, after six months microalbuminuria was significantly decreased in both treatment groups (−67.62% and −49.1%, respectively; both p <0.001), with a reduction rate in Group A significantly higher than in Group B ( p<0.001).

Conclusions:

The addition of aliskiren to optimal conventional therapy provided a higher reduction of blood pressure and urinary albumin excretion when compared with the addition of losartan or ramipril.
ACE2 activity was increased in atherosclerotic plaque by losartan: Possible relation to anti-atherosclerosis
Authors: Zhang Yue Hui , Hao Qing Qing , Wang Xiao Yu , Chen Xu , Wang Nan , Zhu Li , Li Shu Ying , Yu Qing tao , Dong Bo
Published: July 2014

Introduction:

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a new member of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and it has been proposed that ACE2 is a potential therapeutic target for the control of cardiovascular disease. The effect of losartan on the ACE2 activity in atherosclerosis was studied.

Methods:

Atherosclerosis was induced in New Zealand white rabbits by high-cholesterol diet for 3 months. An Angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor blocker (losartan, 25 mg/kg/d) was given for 3 months. ACE2 activity was measured by fluorescence assay and the extent of atherosclerosis was evaluated by H&E and Oil Red O staining. In addition, the effect of losartan on ACE2 activity in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in vitro was also evaluated.

Results:

Losartan increased ACE2 activity in atherosclerosis in vivo and SMCs in vitro. Losartan inhibited atherosclerotic evolution. Addition of losartan blocked Ang II-induced down-regulation of ACE2 activity, and blockade of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) with PD98059 prevented Ang II-induced down-regulation of ACE2 activity.

Conclusions:

The results showed that ACE2 activity was regulated in atherosclerotic plaque by losartan, which may play an important role in treatment of atherosclerosis. The mechanism involves Ang II–AT1R-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinases, MAPKs (MAPKs) signaling pathway.
Persistence, Perseverance, and Success (PPS)
Authors: Madhlangobe Lewis , Chikasha Jennifer , Mafa Onias , Kurasha Primrose
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe motivational factors that increased open distance learning (ODL) students’ capacity to successfully graduate with master’s and doctoral credentials. Study background revealed that Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) persistently experiences increased levels of student dropout and competition from conventional universities that introduce ODL through “block-release” programs. We used a descriptive qualitative research approach to collect and analyze data—hence, data collection through audio-recorded open-ended semi-structured interviews helped to maintain accurate accounts of data. We presented data through themed reporting enhanced by direct quotes from participants. Our research broadly concluded that once participants registered to study, perceived attention from various social angles created immense motivational factors ranging from institution motivators, personal factors, and social-generated motivators such as fear of what society would think of them all motivated them to persist and graduate with proposed credentials.
Study of molten metal droplet adhesion to organic anti-spatter coatings
Authors: Maier C. H. , Lüftl S. , Kozeschnik E.
Published: July 2014

In this study, the protection mechanism of four typical anti-spatter products based on polymer coating is investigated. These coatings protect the weld nozzle against weld spatter in a similar way as water droplets on a hot plate. During the short contact of the molten metal droplet with the coating, part of the coating evaporates in the form of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, water and other volatile degradation products. During welding, these gases act as a buffer layer between the coating and the weld spatter and can significantly reduce the potential spatter/substrate adherence and spatter agglomeration.
Characterisation of materials: Determining density using X-ray microtomography
Authors: Davis G. R. , Evershed A. N. Z. , Mills D.
Published: July 2014

The authors have previously published a method of beam hardening correction for X-ray microtomography that allows accurate determination of mineral concentration in hard tissue. This uses a multi-element calibration carousel for making experimental X-ray attenuation measurements to optimise the parameters in a model of X-ray transmission and detection. From this, a calibration curve is generated to convert the X-ray polychromatic X-ray projection data to that which would be expected with monochromatic X-rays. Furthermore, the calibration curve can be modified according to the known composition of the specimen. Here, this is tested using different materials to assess its accuracy in determining their density. Generally, errors in density of around 1–2 were obtained. When modelling the conventional use of an aluminium step wedge, much larger errors are seen. The technique can be used to measure and map density or concentration in cases where this would be difficult with other methods.
Al2O3 coatings fabricated on stainless steel/aluminium composites by microarc oxidation
Authors: Shen Y. Z. , Guo X. Z. , Lin Y. B. , Tao J.
Published: July 2014

Al2O3 coatings were in situ formed by means of microarc oxidation technique to solve the problem of difficult preparation of alumina coatings on the inner surface of the complicated bimetallic parts. The effect of current density and oxidation time on the Al2O3 coatings was investigated in this work. The phase compositions, microstructure and cross-section morphologies of Al2O3 coatings were characterised respectively by XRD and SEM. Then the bonding strength between the substrate and Al2O3 coatings was tested by WS-2005 automatic scratch tester. The results showed that the critical load of as prepared Al2O3 coatings reached 38 N, which was higher than that of the Al2O3 coatings prepared by other methods such as sol–gel method, vapour deposition and chemical deposition. Moreover, the maximum content of α-Al2O3 in the compact alumina coatings achieved about 67·2 wt-%.
Adalimumab serum levels and antidrug antibodies towards adalimumab in peripheral spondyloarthritis: no association with clinical response to treatment or with disease relapse upon treatment discontinuation
Authors: Paramarta Jacqueline E , Baeten Dominique L
Published: July 2014

Introduction

In this study, we evaluated the clinical relevance of serum drug levels and antidrug antibodies (ADAbs) with regard to response to treatment, as well as to relapse upon treatment discontinuation, in peripheral spondyloarthritis (pSpA) patients treated with adalimumab.

Methods

The study included 26 pSpA patients treated with adalimumab for either 12 weeks (n = 12) or 24 weeks (n = 14) in a randomized controlled trial. Patients achieving inactive disease measured by Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) at the end of the treatment period were classified as responders. Clinical characteristics, serum trough adalimumab levels and ADAbs were assessed at the end of the treatment period and at follow-up (upon relapse or, in absence of relapse, at 16 weeks after discontinuation).

Results

Serum adalimumab levels measured 2 weeks after the last adalimumab administration ranged from <0.002 to 23.0 μg/ml, with a median of 11.5 μg/ml. These levels were associated with neither response to treatment or disease activity measurements at the end of treatment nor with the occurrence of relapse and time to relapse after discontinuation of treatment. Antiadalimumab ADAbs were present in 23% of the patients at end of treatment and in 35% at follow-up after treatment discontinuation, indicating that ADAbs were masked by the presence of the drug in some patients. However, ADAbs at the end of treatment and at follow-up were not different between responders and nonresponders and were not associated with relapse upon discontinuation of treatment.

Conclusions

There is no clear association between adalimumab serum levels or antiadalimumab ADAbs with clinical response to treatment or with relapse upon treatment discontinuation in pSpA.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial Register ID:NTR1806 (registered 7 May 2009)
Emergence of New ALK Mutations at Relapse of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Schleiermacher Gudrun , Javanmardi Niloufar , Bernard Virginie , Leroy Quentin , Cappo Julie , Rio Frio Thomas , Pierron Gaelle , Lapouble Eve , Combaret Valérie , Speleman Frank , de Wilde Bram , Djos Anna , Øra Ingrid , Hedborg Fredrik , Träger Catarina , Holmqvist Britt-Marie , Abrahamsson Jonas , Peuchmaur Michel , Michon Jean , Janoueix-Lerosey Isabelle , Kogner Per , Delattre Olivier , Martinsson Tommy
Published: July 2014

Purpose

In neuroblastoma, the ALK receptor tyrosine kinase is activated by point mutations. We investigated the potential role of ALK mutations in neuroblastoma clonal evolution.

Methods

We analyzed ALK mutations in 54 paired diagnosis–relapse neuroblastoma samples using Sanger sequencing. When an ALK mutation was observed in one paired sample, a minor mutated component in the other sample was searched for by more than 100,000× deep sequencing of the relevant hotspot, with a sensitivity of 0.17%.

Results

All nine ALK-mutated cases at diagnosis demonstrated the same mutation at relapse, in one case in only one of several relapse nodules. In five additional cases, the mutation seemed to be relapse specific, four of which were investigated by deep sequencing. In two cases, no mutation evidence was observed at diagnosis. In one case, the mutation was present at a subclonal level (0.798%) at diagnosis, whereas in another case, two different mutations resulting in identical amino acid changes were detected, one only at diagnosis and the other only at relapse. Further evidence of clonal evolution of ALK-mutated cells was provided by establishment of a fully ALK-mutated cell line from a primary sample with an ALK-mutated cell population at subclonal level (6.6%).

Conclusion

In neuroblastoma, subclonal ALK mutations can be present at diagnosis with subsequent clonal expansion at relapse. Given the potential of ALK-targeted therapy, the significant spatiotemporal variation of ALK mutations is of utmost importance, highlighting the potential of deep sequencing for detection of subclonal mutations with a sensitivity 100-fold that of Sanger sequencing and the importance of serial samplings for therapeutic decisions.
Prognostic Value of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Triple-Negative Breast Cancers From Two Phase III Randomized Adjuvant Breast Cancer Trials: ECOG 2197 and ECOG 1199
Authors: Adams Sylvia , Gray Robert J. , Demaria Sandra , Goldstein Lori , Perez Edith A. , Shulman Lawrence N. , Martino Silvana , Wang Molin , Jones Vicky E. , Saphner Thomas J. , Wolff Antonio C. , Wood William C. , Davidson Nancy E. , Sledge George W. , Sparano Joseph A. , Badve Sunil S.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

Recent studies suggest that tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are associated with disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in operable triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We seek to validate the prognostic impact of TILs in primary TNBCs in two adjuvant phase III trials conducted by the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG).

Patients and Methods

Full-face hematoxylin and eosin–stained sections of 506 tumors from ECOG trials E2197 and E1199 were evaluated for density of TILs in intraepithelial (iTILs) and stromal compartments (sTILs). Patient cases of TNBC from E2197 and E1199 were randomly selected based on availability of sections. For the primary end point of DFS, association with TIL scores was determined by fitting proportional hazards models stratified on study. Secondary end points were OS and distant recurrence–free interval (DRFI). Reporting recommendations for tumor marker prognostic studies criteria were followed, and all analyses were prespecified.

Results

The majority of 481 evaluable cancers had TILs (sTILs, 80%; iTILs, 15%). With a median follow-up of 10.6 years, higher sTIL scores were associated with better prognosis; for every 10% increase in sTILs, a 14% reduction of risk of recurrence or death (P = .02), 18% reduction of risk of distant recurrence (P = .04), and 19% reduction of risk of death (P = .01) were observed. Multivariable analysis confirmed sTILs to be an independent prognostic marker of DFS, DRFI, and OS.

Conclusion

In two national randomized clinical trials using contemporary adjuvant chemotherapy, we confirm that stromal lymphocytic infiltration constitutes a robust prognostic factor in TNBCs. Studies assessing outcomes and therapeutic efficacies should consider stratification for this parameter.
Surgical Considerations in Older Adults With Cancer
Authors: Korc-Grodzicki Beatriz , Downey Robert J. , Shahrokni Armin , Kingham T. Peter , Patel Snehal G. , Audisio Riccardo A.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

The aging of the population is a real concern for surgical oncologists, who are increasingly being asked to treat patients who would not have been considered for surgery in the past. In many cases, decisions are made with relatively little evidence, most of which was derived from trials in which older age was a limiting factor for recruitment.

Methods

This review focuses on risk assessment and perioperative management. It describes the relationship between age and outcomes for colon, lung, hepatobiliary, and head and neck cancer, which are predominantly diseases of the elderly and are a major cause of morbidity and mortality.

Results

Effective surgery requires safe performance as well as reasonable postoperative life expectancy and maintenance of quality of life. Treatment decisions for potentially vulnerable elderly patients should take into account data obtained from the evaluation of geriatric syndromes, such as frailty, functional and cognitive limitations, malnutrition, comorbidities, and polypharmacy, as well as social support. Postoperative care should include prevention and treatment of complications seen more frequently in the elderly, including postoperative delirium, functional decline, and the need for institutionalization.

Conclusion

Surgery remains the best modality for treatment of solid tumors, and chronologic age alone should not be a determinant for treatment decisions. With adequate perioperative risk stratification, functional assessment, and oncologic prognostication, elderly patients with cancer can do as well in terms of morbidity and mortality as their younger counterparts. If surgery is determined to be the appropriate treatment modality, patients should not be denied this option because of their age.
Prostate Cancer in the Elderly Patient
Authors: Fung Chunkit , Dale William , Mohile Supriya Gupta
Published: July 2014

Treatment for prostate cancer (PCa) has evolved significantly over the last decade. PCa is the most prevalent non-skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in men, and it has an increased incidence and prevalence in older men. As a result, physicians and patients are faced with the challenge of identifying optimal treatment strategies for localized, biochemical recurrent, and advanced PCa in the older population. When older patients are appropriately selected, treatment for PCa results in survival benefits and toxicity profiles similar to those experienced in younger patients. However, underlying health status and age-related changes can have an impact on tolerance of hormonal therapy and chemotherapy in men with advanced disease. Therefore, the heterogeneity of the elderly population necessitates a multidimensional assessment to maximize the benefit of medical and/or surgical options. Providing clinicians with the requisite health status data on which to base treatment decisions would help ensure that older patients with PCa receive optimal therapy if it will benefit them and/or active surveillance or best supportive care if it will not. We provide a review of the existing evidence to date on the management of PCa in the older population.
Supportive Care Considerations for Older Adults With Cancer
Authors: Naeim Arash , Aapro Matti , Subbarao Rashmi , Balducci Lodovico
Published: July 2014

The treatment of cancer presents specific concerns that are unique to the growing demographic of elderly patients. Because the incidence of cancer is strongly correlated with aging, the expansion of supportive care and other age-appropriate therapies will be of great importance as the population of elderly patients with cancer increases in the coming years.

Elderly patients are especially likely to experience febrile neutropenia, complications from chemotherapy-induced nausea, anemia, osteoporosis (especially in patients diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer), depression, insomnia, and fatigue. These issues are often complicated by other chronic conditions related to age, such as diabetes and cardiac disease.

For many patients, symptoms may be addressed both through lifestyle management and pharmaceutical approaches. Therefore, the key to improving quality of life for the elderly patient with cancer is an awareness of their specific needs and a familiarity with emergent treatment options.
Scientific Publications in the Journal
Authors: Девисилов  , Devisilov Vladimir
Published: July 2014

Summing up eight years of publishing the journal, analyzing issued articles and journal topic, studying manuscript

preparation and publication. Laying out editors’ and publishers’ requirements to submitted manuscripts. Offering

recommendations on article writing and design, approximate and recommended manuscript writing schedules and

schemes, and technical standards for reference lists that are obligatory for every article. Informing on transliteration rules

for reference lists in Russian, the journal’s web-sites, and Agreement between authors and editors.
Spectral Clarity Modified Method in Ecological Safety Monitoring of Dust-trapping and Gas-cleaning Units
Authors: Дьяченко  , Dyachenko Vladimir , Роговский  , Rogovskiy Viktor , Чартий  , Chartiy Pavel
Published: July 2014

The article develops a new approach to the enhancement of ecological safety and productivity of dust-trapping and gascleaning

units; technique is based on modified spectral clarity method. Dusted airflow was studied on special dust-test bed

with modified spectral clarity method. Research is based on implementing three-wavelength lasers for discovering not only

mass concentration of dust, but its size-consist determination. It allows constructing a sensor able to detect faults of sock

filters in real-time on early stages.
Lasers and Safety. Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. Part 1
Authors: Пальцев  , Paltsev Yuriy , Кибовский  , Kibovskiy V. , Рахманов  , Rakhmanov Boris , Девисилов  , Devisilov Vladimir
Published: July 2014

The article surveys evolutionary issues of military and civil laser technology, as well as historic aspects of formation and

contemporary state of laser safety in Russia and abroad. Biological impact of laser emission and the principles of rulemaking

are considered. Major regulatory documents for laser safety and laser dosimetry are reviewed. The study grounds

the necessity of enhancement of state regulation methods for laser safety.
The Coevolution of Industries, Social Movements, and Institutions: Wind Power in the United States
Authors: Pacheco Desirée F. , York Jeffrey G. , Hargrave Timothy J.
Published: July 2014

This study of the U.S. wind energy industry extends theory on the process of industry emergence by developing and testing a coevolutionary model of the relationship between social movement organizations (SMOs), institutions, and industries. Building on research that suggests that SMOs can influence institutions and the path of emerging industries, we show that the growth of an industry can also influence the diversity of social movements by motivating the participation of specialist SMOs. These new SMOs in turn deploy distinct knowledge, capabilities, goals, and strategies to produce institutional changes that are necessary for the continued growth of the industry. Our study offers a more complete conceptualization of the influence of social movements on industry emergence and growth, and it extends understanding of how SMO diversity is produced.
Effective multidisciplinary working: the key to high-quality care
Authors: Ndoro Samuel
Published: July 2014

This article explores multidisciplinary team working, inter-disciplinary, trans-disciplinary and effective collaborative practice in order to provide high-quality patient care. It discusses different views on collaboration, some of the issues around cross-discipline and multi-agency working and concerns around promoting ‘high-quality’ care. It also discusses the importance of evidence-based practice in multidisciplinary teams. Issues around good-quality care, clinical governance and the audit cycle in MDTs are addressed. The article highlights the importance of the 6Cs (care, compassion, competence, communication, courage and commitment) in MDTs if quality care is to be achieved. The article also explores advantages and limitations of multidisciplinary team working, trans-disciplinary working and inter-professional working in developing and delivering high-quality patient-centred care. Further research is needed on how clinical audits can help to improve how MDTs function in order improve the quality of service provided to clients.
Stress among nurses working in an acute hospital in Ireland
Authors: Donnelly Teresa
Published: July 2014

Stress among nurses leads to absenteeism, reduced efficiency, long-term health problems and a decrease in the quality of patient care delivered. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted. The study's aim was to identify perceived stressors and influencing factors among nurses working in the critical and non-critical care practice areas. A convenience sample of 200 nurses were invited to complete the Bianchi Stress Questionnaire. Information was collected on demographics and daily nursing practice. Findings indicated that perceived stressors were similar in both groups. The most severe stressors included redeployment to work in other areas and staffing levels. Results from this study suggest that age, job title, professional experience and formal post-registration qualifications had no influence on stress perception. These results will increase awareness of nurses' occupational stress in Ireland.
A study on the effects of multicultural education experience of university students on social distance and multicultural acceptance: Focus on university students of Cheungbuk
Authors: Jung Myung-hee , Park Oi-byung
Published: July 2014

The recent of internationalization in many Korean universities has resulted in a rapid rise in the number of foreign students, yet most universities are inviting foreign students without receiving proper training on perceptions and understanding for other cultures to result in a rise in Caucasian-oriented or English-oriented cultural perceptions. Under the belief that discussions on multicultural acceptance are necessary, this study investigated the characteristics of dorm life of university students in the Cheongbuk region with foreign students and investigated the influencing relationships between their multicultural education experience with social distance and multicultural acceptance. Results show that the multicultural education experience of university students has an influencing relationship on social distance for multiculturalism, which was shown to have a correlation with multicultural acceptance. Such study results indicate that Korean ethnic identity can increase social distance for multiculturalism and have an effect on multicultural acceptance of university students. Such results demonstrate the importance of formal and informal educational experiences. Multicultural education must be based on efforts to understand or communicate with others while Korean multicultural society must be achieved based on understandingand respect for other cultures.
Digital Ethnography: Anthropology, Narrative, and New Media (Underberg and Zorn)
Authors: Thompson Matthew D.
Published: July 2014

This work is a book review considering the title Digital Ethnography: Anthropology, Narrative, and New Media by Natalie M. Underberg and Elayne Zorn.
Books and Media Received
Authors: Jackson Jason Baird
Published: July 2014

This item is a listing of scholarly works submitted to the editorial office for possible review.
Hopituy: Hopi Art from the Permanent Collections
Authors: Swan Daniel C.
Published: July 2014

This work is a exhibition and catalogue review considering Hopituy: Hopi Art from the Permanent Collections, a project of the Fred Jones, Jr. Museum of Art.
Quality Control Using Inferential Statistics in Weibull-based Reliability Analyses
Authors: Duffy Stephen F. , Parikh Ankurben
Published: July 2014

Design codes and fitness-for-service protocols have recognized the need to characterize the tensile strength of graphite as a random variable through the use of probability density functions. Characterizing probability density functions require more tests than typically needed to simply define an average value for tensile strength. ASTM and the needs of nuclear design codes should dovetail on this issue. The two-parameter Weibull distribution (an extreme-value distribution) is adopted for the tensile strength of this material. The failure data from bend tests or tensile tests are used to determine the Weibull modulus (m) and Weibull characteristic strength (σθ). To determine an estimate of the true Weibull distribution parameters, maximum likelihood estimators are used. The quality of the estimated parameters relative to the true distribution parameters depends fundamentally on the number of samples taken to failure. The statistical concepts of confidence intervals and hypothesis testing are presented pertaining to their use in assessing the goodness of the estimated distribution parameters. The inferential statistics tools enable the calculation of likelihood confidence rings. The concept of how the true distribution parameters lie within a likelihood ring with a specified confidence is presented. A material acceptance criterion is defined here, and the criterion depends on establishing an acceptable probability of failure of the component under design, as well as an acceptable level of confidence associated with the estimated distribution parameter determined using failure data from a specific type of strength test.
Selective clearance of aberrant tau proteins and rescue of neurotoxicity by transcription factor EB
Authors: Polito Vinicia A , Li Hongmei , Martini‐Stoica Heidi , Wang Baiping , Yang Li , Xu Yin , Swartzlander Daniel B , Palmieri Michela , di Ronza Alberto , Lee Virginia M‐Y , Sardiello Marco , Ballabio Andrea , Zheng Hui
Published: July 2014

Accumulating evidence implicates impairment of the autophagy‐lysosome pathway in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recently discovered, transcription factor EB (TFEB) is a molecule shown to play central roles in cellular degradative processes. Here we investigate the role of TFEB in AD mouse models. In this study, we demonstrate that TFEB effectively reduces neurofibrillary tangle pathology and rescues behavioral and synaptic deficits and neurodegeneration in the rTg4510 mouse model of tauopathy with no detectable adverse effects when expressed in wild‐type mice. TFEB specifically targets hyperphosphorylated and misfolded Tau species present in both soluble and aggregated fractions while leaving normal Tau intact. We provide in vitro evidence that this effect requires lysosomal activity and we identify phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) as a direct target of TFEB that is required for TFEB‐dependent aberrant Tau clearance. The specificity and efficacy of TFEB in mediating the clearance of toxic Tau species makes it an attractive therapeutic target for treating diseases of tauopathy including AD.
Growth After Adenotonsillectomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: An RCT
Authors: Katz Eliot S. , Moore Renee H. , Rosen Carol L. , Mitchell Ron B. , Amin Raouf , Arens Raanan , Muzumdar Hiren , Chervin Ronald D. , Marcus Carole L. , Paruthi Shalini , Willging Paul , Redline Susan
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) may lead to weight gain, which can have deleterious health effects when leading to obesity. However, previous data have been from nonrandomized uncontrolled studies, limiting inferences. This study examined the anthropometric changes over a 7-month interval in a randomized controlled trial of adenotonsillectomy for OSAS, the Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial.

METHODS:

A total of 464 children who had OSAS (average apnea/hypopnea index [AHI] 5.1/hour), aged 5 to 9.9 years, were randomized to Early Adenotonsillectomy (eAT) or Watchful Waiting and Supportive Care (WWSC). Polysomnography and anthropometry were performed at baseline and 7-month follow-up. Multivariable regression modeling was used to predict the change in weight and growth indices.

RESULTS:

Interval increases in the BMI z score (0.13 vs 0.31) was observed in both the WWSC and eAT intervention arms, respectively, but were greater with eAT (P < .0001). Statistical modeling showed that BMI z score increased significantly more in association with eAT after considering the influences of baseline weight and AHI. A greater proportion of overweight children randomized to eAT compared with WWSC developed obesity over the 7-month interval (52% vs 21%; P < .05). Race, gender, and follow-up AHI were not significantly associated with BMI z score change.

CONCLUSIONS:

eAT for OSAS in children results in clinically significant greater than expected weight gain, even in children overweight at baseline. The increase in adiposity in overweight children places them at further risk for OSAS and the adverse consequences of obesity. Monitoring weight, nutritional counseling, and encouragement of physical activity should be considered after eAT for OSAS.
Updated Guidance for Palivizumab Prophylaxis Among Infants and Young Children at Increased Risk of Hospitalization for Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Authors:   COMMITTEE ON INFECTIOUS DISEASES and BRONCHIOLITIS GUIDELINES COMMITTEE, Brady Michael T. , Byington Carrie L. , Davies H. Dele , Edwards Kathryn M. , Jackson Mary Anne , Maldonado Yvonne A. , Murray Dennis L. , Orenstein Walter A. , Rathore Mobeen H. , Sawyer Mark H. , Schutze Gordon E. , Willoughby Rodney E. , Zaoutis Theoklis E. , Ralston Shawn L. , Lieberthal Allan S. , Meissner H. Cody , Alverson Brian K. , Baley Jill E. , Gadomski Anne M. , Johnson David W. , Light Michael J. , Maraqa Nizar F. , Mendonca Eneida A. , Phelan Kieran J. , Zorc Joseph J. , Stanko-Lopp Danette , Hernández-Cancio Sinsi
Published: July 2014

Guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the use of palivizumab prophylaxis against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was first published in a policy statement in 1998. Guidance initially was based on the result from a single randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted in 1996–1997 describing an overall reduction in RSV hospitalization rate from 10.6% among placebo recipients to 4.8% among children who received prophylaxis. The results of a second randomized, placebo-controlled trial of children with hemodynamically significant heart disease were published in 2003 and revealed a reduction in RSV hospitalization rate from 9.7% in control subjects to 5.3% among prophylaxis recipients. Because no additional controlled trials regarding efficacy were published, AAP guidance has been updated periodically to reflect the most recent literature regarding children at greatest risk of severe disease. Since the last update in 2012, new data have become available regarding the seasonality of RSV circulation, palivizumab pharmacokinetics, the changing incidence of bronchiolitis hospitalizations, the effects of gestational age and other risk factors on RSV hospitalization rates, the mortality of children hospitalized with RSV infection, and the effect of prophylaxis on wheezing and palivizumab-resistant RSV isolates. These data enable further refinement of AAP guidance to most clearly focus on those children at greatest risk.
Contaminación microbiológica y actividad antimicrobiana del azúcar de caña cristalizado sobre algunos agentes de interés médico en Costa Rica
Authors: Pujol Verónica , Díaz Jendry , Rodriguez Evelyn , Laura Arias MAría
Published: July 2014

La tapa de dulce o panela es un producto alimenticio de consumo tradicional, típico de países neotropicales, obtenido de la filtración y evaporación del jugo de la caña de azúcar. Además de su uso clásico como endulzante, en Costa Rica y otras partes del mundo se ha utilizado para el tratamiento tópico y empírico de heridas infectadas, con resultados satisfactorios, aún en infecciones por bacterias resistentes a diversos antibióticos. A fin de valorar el riesgo o beneficio de esta práctica, se evaluó la calidad microbiológica de 50 muestras de tapa de dulce de producción nacional obtenidas en trapiches, mercados y supermercados. Se realizaron recuentos bacterianos aerobios y anaerobios, de bacterias esporuladas y no esporuladas y de hongos y levaduras, se determinó el número de coliformes totales y fecales, la presencia de Clostridium botulinum y se evaluó el efecto antimicrobiano de este producto sobre algunos patógenos: Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), S. epidermidis (UCR 2902), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 9027), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Salmonella enteritidis (ATCC 13076), Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 19116) y Aspergillus niger (Asni 06). La mayoría de las muestras (76%) presentaron recuentos bacterianos menores de 100 UFC/g, especialmente de esporulados (90% menos de 20 UFC/g), y recuentos de hongos y levaduras elevados (20% mayores a 100 UFC/g). Un alto porcentaje de las muestras presentó contaminación fecal (76%, NMP/g desde 3 hasta 460). No se logró aislar C. botulinum en ninguna de las muestras. Todas las muestras del producto concentrado desarrollaron halo de inhibición sobre los cultivos, principalmente sobre P. aeruginosa y S. aureus; pero no se observó ningún tipo de inhibición sobre A. niger.
Caracterización biológica de tres aislamientos naturales del Rubulavirus porcino (México)
Authors: Del Tránsito Borraz Argüello María , Santos López Gerardo , Vallejo Ruiz Verónica , Herrera Camacho Irma , Reyes Leyva Julio
Published: July 2014

El Rubulavirus porcino causa un síndrome neurológico y reproductivo en cerdos, hasta ahora reportado sólo en México. Los virus aislados se agrupan de acuerdo con los síntomas principales observados durante los brotes en: a) neutrópicos en lechones, b) neurotrópicos en lechones/gonadotrópicos en adultos y c) gonadotrópicos en adultos. En este trabajo se estudiaron tres cepas: La Piedad Michoacán (LPM) y Producción Animal ?Cerdos? 1 (PAC1) y 3 (PAC3), ubicadas respectivamente en cada grupo. Las propiedades estudiadas se relacionan principalmente con dos proteínas de la envoltura viral, la hemaglutinina-neuraminidasa (HN) y la proteína de fusión (F). Se cuantificaron el efecto citopático y las actividades de hemólisis, hemaglutinación (HA) y neuraminidasa (NA). En cultivo celular la cepa PAC1 presentó una mayor actividad fusogénica, sin embargo PAC3 presentó la mayor actividad citolítica. La cepa PAC3 fue la primera en ser detectada en sobrenadante de células infectadas (HA, NA y genoma), lo que muestra que sus viriones son liberados al medio antes que las otras dos cepas. PAC3 tuvo las actividades más altas de HA y NA, sin embargo, PAC1 presentó una mayor termoestabilidad en estas actividades de HN y un perfil de substrato algo distinto de los observados para LPM y PAC3. Estos datos sugieren que la actividad de NA está relacionada con la virulencia del RVP.
Efectos del huracán "Pauline" (1997) sobre la fauna asociada a la planta Eichhornia crassipes en la Laguna Coyuca, Pacífico Sur de México
Authors: Román Contreras Ramiro , Rocha Ramírez Arturo , Cházaro Olvera Sergio
Published: July 2014

Observaciones sobre los efectos que el huracán ?Pauline? produjo a su paso por la laguna Coyuca, sur del Pacífico de México la madrugada del 9 de octubre de 1997, indican que el disturbio tropical ocasionó en el área la desaparición temporal de la fauna asociada a las raíces del lirio acuático en relación a la fauna registrada durante los meses anteriores al fenómeno; durante los tres meses posteriores se registró la disminución de E. crassipes en el área de estudio. En enero de 1998 se observó el inicio de su recuperación y se recolectaron los primeros organismos asociados a sus raíces; cuatro meses más tarde el lirio acuático y su fauna asociada casi alcanzaban los mismos niveles registrados antes del huracán.
Estructura de la comunidad de colémbolos (Hexapoda: Collembola) en musgos corticícolas en el gradiente altitudinal de un bosque subhúmedo de México
Authors: Q. Cutz Pool Leopoldo , G. Palacios Vargas José , Castaño Meneses Gabriela
Published: July 2014

Se presentan datos sobre la estructura de la comunidad de colémbolos en musgos corticícolas, de un bosque de encino y abetos en la vertiente NO del Volcán Iztaccíhuatl, Estado de México, México. El estudio comprendió cuatro muestreos (noviembre de 2003, marzo, junio y agosto de 2004), realizados en tres altitudes I: 2 750 m; II: 2 930 m y III: 3 350 m snm. En cada altitud, se calculó la riqueza de especies (S), los índices de diversidad de Shannon (H'), Equitatividad de Pielou (J') y dominancia de Simpson (λ). Se utilizó un análisis de varianza de dos vías (ANOVA) para evaluar el efecto de la altitud y fecha de muestreo, sobre la densidad total de los colémbolos. El número total de especies fue de 24, variando de 13 para la altitud mayor a 17 en la menor. La mayor densidad se encontró a mayor altitud. Americabrya arida y Willowsia mexicana fueron las especies dominantes, y se encontró un efecto positivo significativo de la altitud sobre sus densidades. La mayor similitud entre comunidades de acuerdo con el índice de Sörensen se presentó entre las altitudes II y III, con un 59%.
Los cromosomas mitóticos y meióticos del pez tropical Petenia splendida (Cichlidae)
Authors: Arias Rodríguez Lenin , Ibarra Castro Leonardo , Páramo Delgadillo Salomón
Published: July 2014

Para describir los cromosomas del cariotipo en mitosis y meiosis de la mojarra tenguayaca P. splendida, se procesaron 60 larvas y doce jóvenes (seis hembras y seis machos) procedentes de Tabasco, México. Se emplearon los procedimientos citológicos clásicos para peces pequeños y grandes, con algunas modificaciones que permitieron obtener campos cromosómicos en meiosis y mitosis. Analizamos al microscopio 100 laminillas, contando 290 dispersiones cromosómicas. En mitosis, 76.7 % de los conteos dieron número modal diploide de 2N=48 cromosomas, mientras en meiosis el 55.2 % mostró 24 cromosomas en condición haploide. Se analizaron ocho de las mejores fotografías para establecer el cariotipo y se identificaron tres pares de cromosomas birrámeos metacéntricos-submetacéntricos (msm) y 21 pares de cromosomas monorrámeos subtelocéntricos-acrocéntricos (sta) con número fundamental (N.F) de 54 brazos. Se corroboró el cariotipo mediante el análisis de campos cromosómicos en estadio haploide y diploide de la meiosis I. Las dispersiones cromosómicas tuvieron un número mayor en larvas que en jóvenes. No hubo diferencias heteromórficas para distinguir cromosomas sexuales. Sin embargo, se observó la presencia de cuerpos cromáticos en forma de puntos, como una característica propia de los microcromosomas ?B?. Para esta familia, el cariotipo de P. splendida es primitivo o tipo ?A?; y es estrechamente parecido al del género Cichlasoma. El origen de los cromosomas supernumerarios es un fenómeno aun desconocido en los cíclidos por lo que faltan estudios relacionados con el daño causado por la contaminación y la hibridación.
Management of fatigue cracking: West Gate Bridge, Melbourne
Authors: Silla-Sanchez Javier , Noonan John
Published: July 2014

Melbourne’s West Gate Bridge has recently been the subject of a major, award-winning strengthening project designed to increase load capacity and reduce maintenance requirements. This paper addresses the management of existing and potential fatigue cracking on the steel spans of the bridge. Recent growth in average vehicle weight and traffic volumes has continued to give rise to fatigue cracking, something the bridge has suffered from since soon after it was opened, particularly in areas directly subject to wheel and axle loads. The paper summarises the work being undertaken on the fatigue-prone areas and focuses on crack monitoring and behaviour. It also describes the fatigue management task, treatment details, constructability issues and the strategy for prioritising the treatment works.
Heat transfer prediction in a shallow cavity effect of incoming flow characteristics
Authors: Madi Arous
Published: July 2014

This study deals numerically with a heat transfer in a turbulent flow over a
shallow cavity. Two different configurations of the incoming flow are
considered: a boundary layer flow and a plane wall jet flow, in order to
examine the wall jet outer layer effect on the heat transfer. This layer is
an important additional turbulence source in the wall jet flow. Reynolds
number and turbulence intensity effects were investigated in the boundary
layer incoming flow case. The cavity depth to nozzle height ratio effect was
examined in the wall jet incoming flow case. The numerical approach is based
on k-? standard turbulence model. This study reveals that the heat transfer
is very sensitive to the incoming flow characteristics. The turbulence
intensity increase accelerates the reattachment of the shear layer at the
cavity floor and enhances the heat transfer. The reattachment phenomenon
seems to be less affected by the Reynolds number. However, an increase in
this parameter ameliorates the heat transfer. It was also observed a heat
transfer enhancement in the wall jet incoming flow case as compared to that
of a boundary layer. Likewise, it was found that the augmentation of the
cavity depth to the jet nozzle height ratio improves even more the heat
transfer. The maximum heat transfer occurs upstream of the reattachment.
Knowledge Production in a Cooperative Economy
Authors: Cottey Alan
Published: July 2014

Knowledge here means something similar to but broader than science — it is reliable but not necessarily as systematic or explicit. A cooperative economy is contrasted with the competitive economy that has dominated political thinking almost everywhere for about half a century — the neo-liberal period. It is argued that the neo-liberal ideology and its economic ideas and practices are unjust and unsustainable. A model for a cooperative economy is described which would be more just and sustainable. Three main features of the model are outlined — basic income, asset and income limits, and a concept of work that counts all activity useful to human well-being rather than counting monetary profit. Knowledge in such an economy is considered in four main stages: production, review, dissemination and use. It is argued that, in the described cooperative economy, these stages would proceed more efficiently and lead to human well-being.
Google™ versus Me™: Who Owns the Rights to My Digital DNA?
Authors: Freedman Gordon
Published: July 2014

The information giants, Google being the largest, trade every day and build high-valuation mega-opolies on the back of very personal information without including their sources of value with any tangible return for their investment of exclusive data. The time has come to ask the question whether the grand bargain of ‘cool tools' in return for the most personal information is the best corporate, public and personal policy. In the long-run, the bargain is lopsided and may not be in the best interest of the huge digital players themselves. We are in the era of Information Imperialism which has trumped Digital Democracy — we need to have this complex discussion about the conversion of personal information into corporate fortunes in the open air of informed public debate.