bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do low step count goals inhibit walking behavior: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Anson Denis , Madras Diane
Published: July 2015

Objective:

Confirmation and quantification of observed differences in goal-directed walking behavior.

Design:

Single-blind, split-half randomized trial.

Setting:

Small rural university, Pennsylvania, United States.

Subjects:

A total of 94 able-bodied subjects (self-selected volunteer students, faculty and staff of a small university) were randomly assigned walking goals, and 53 completed the study.

Interventions:

Incentivized pedometer-monitored program requiring recording the step-count for 56-days into a custom-made website providing daily feedback.

Main outcome measures:

Steps logged per day.

Results:

During the first half of the study, the 5000 and 10,000 step group logged significantly different steps 7500 and 9000, respectively ( P > 0.05). During the second half of the study, the 5000 and 10,000 step groups logged 7000 and 8600 steps, respectively (significance P > 0.05). The group switched from 5000 to →10,000 steps logged, 7900 steps for the first half and 9500 steps for the second half (significance P > 0.05). The group switched from 10,000 to 5000 steps logged 9700 steps for the first half and 9000 steps for the second half, which was significant ( p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Levels of walking behavior are influenced by the goals assigned. Subjects with high goals walk more than those with low goals, even if they do not meet the assigned goal. Reducing goals from a high to low level can reduce walking behavior.
Understanding advocacy in action: A qualitative study
Authors: Dhillon Shaminder , Wilkins Seanne , Stewart Debra , Law Mary
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Occupational therapists advocate with/for people with disabilities. In the occupational therapy literature, advocacy is mentioned within the context of specific populations or practice settings and thus there is no consistent way of describing advocacy itself. The objective of this article is to describe advocacy in action for occupational therapists who report engaging in advocacy with/for people with disabilities.

Method

In this hermeneutic phenomenological study, 13 occupational therapists were interviewed about their advocacy experiences. Data analysis was completed using a Gadamerian-based approach.

Findings

Advocacy is complex given that the specific tasks, the third party to whom advocacy is directed and the individual(s) advocating with the therapist vary greatly. Many skills used for advocacy are already part of the therapist’s practice, such as defining the problem, acquiring information, communicating and providing education. In this study, occupational therapists describe advocating as assisting clients who are struggling with access to equipment, services or funding. Also, they advocate by fostering the development of self-advocacy, rather than representing people with disabilities on an ongoing basis.

Conclusion

While these findings provide some insights about how advocacy is currently practiced, a detailed framework is needed to further guide therapists through this complex area of practice.
Cross-dressing as a meaningful occupation: A single case study
Authors: Curtis Morag , Morris Karen
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the lived experience of cross-dressing, to raise awareness of cross-dressing and investigate any possible implications for occupational therapy.

Method

A single design case study utilizing an unstructured interview was used with a male cross-dresser known to the first author. Following transcription, flexible and ongoing analysis was undertaken following an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach and emergent themes resulted in an ongoing literature review.

Findings

The themes that developed were ‘identity’, ‘dressing’ and ‘conflict’. A complexity of meanings related to cross-dressing also emerged: uncontrollable urge; erotic expression; sexual orientation; and a sense of completeness.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that cross-dressing is a meaningful occupation and as such influences identity formation and occupational choices. Occupational therapists have a duty of care to this vulnerable and alienated group within society.
Introduction
Authors: Evans Brad , Tester Keith
Published: July 2015

This special issue of Thesis Eleven has been published to mark the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The concern is to think about what the bombings mean today and how their challenge can be confronted across social and cultural thought and action. The question running through this special issue is: What do the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki mean for us today?
Streetscape Features Related to Pedestrian Activity
Authors: Ewing Reid , Hajrasouliha Amir , Neckerman Kathryn M. , Purciel-Hill Marnie , Greene William
Published: July 2015

By measuring twenty streetscape features and numerous other variables for 588 blocks in New York City, we were able to identify variables that explain pedestrian traffic volumes. We found significant positive correlations between three out of twenty streetscape features with pedestrian counts after controlling for density and other built environmental variables. The significant streetscape features are the proportion of windows on the street, the proportion of active street frontage, and the number of pieces of street furniture. This study provides guidance for streetscape projects that aim to create walkable streets and pedestrian-friendly environments.
Inosculation potential of angiopoietin-4-immobilized pHEMA-based bone scaffolds
Authors: Gümüşderelioğlu Menemşe , Karakuş Eda , Çapkın Yurtsever Merve , Altındal Damla Çetin
Published: July 2015

Although angiopoietin-1has potential therapeutic use in angiogenesis, the biological role of angiopoietin-4, especially in its immobilized form, is already unknown. In this study, vascularization potential of angiopoietin-4 either alone or in combination with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was investigated following its immobilization onto the poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)-based bone scaffolds. Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA)-based superporous hydrogels (SPHs) were synthesized by radical polymerization of hydroxyethyl methacrylate in the presence of gelatin or chitosan and the porosity was achieved by gas foaming. However, only pHEMA-gelatin SPHs fulfill the structural and biological characteristics of a bone scaffold. Therefore, angiopoietin-4 and/or VEGF were immobilized successfully onto the pHEMA–gelatin SPHs using carbodiimide chemistry. The cell culture studies that were performed with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) for 28 days showed that immobilized angiopoietin-4 supported sprout formation more than that of other groups, while the immobilized VEGF including scaffolds promoted proliferation of HUVECs.
Physicochemical, molecular, and biological properties of complexes formed between aminoglycoside antibiotics and some anionic copolymers of acrylic series: Part II
Authors: Tarabukina Elena B , Solovskii Mikhail V , Pautov Vladimir D , Amirova Alina I , Zakharova Natalia V , Smirnova Marianna Y , Anan’eva Tatiana D , Imanbaev Renat T , Eropkin Mikhail Y , Eropkina Elena M
Published: July 2015

Physicochemical and molecular properties of complexes formed by aminoglycoside antibiotics, including neomycin, gentamicin, kanamycin, and amikacin, in the form of bases and carboxyl- or sulfo-comprising copolymers of acrylamide or N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide have been studied. The toxicity of complexes in vitro and their antimicrobial activity are matched to their behavior in solutions. Direct dependency of toxic and antibacterial properties of polymer complexes of aminoglycoside antibiotics on their molecular characteristics and stability opens up perspectives of targeting control over their antimicrobial activity by changing the microstructure of their polymer carrier chains.
Impact of Meditation on Mental Health Outcomes of Female Trauma Survivors of Interpersonal Violence With Co-Occurring Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Mo Yee , Zaharlick Amy , Akers Deborah
Published: July 2015

This study was a randomized controlled trial that examined the impact of meditation practice on the mental health outcomes of female trauma survivors of interpersonal violence who have co-occurring disorders. Sixty-three female trauma survivors were randomly assigned to the meditation condition and the control condition. Treatment conditions consisted of a 6-week meditation curriculum that was influenced by Tibetan meditation tradition and focused on breathing, loving kindness, and compassion meditation. Clients in the meditation condition made significant changes in mental health symptoms ( t = 5.252, df = 31, p = .000) and trauma symptoms ( t = 6.009, df = 31, p = .000) from pre-treatment to post-treatment, whereas non-significant changes were observed among the control condition clients. There were significant group differences between clients in the meditation condition and in the control condition on their mental health symptoms, F(1, 54) = 13.438, p = .001, and trauma symptoms, F(1, 54) = 13.395, p = .001, with a generally large effect size of eta squared .127 and .146, respectively. In addition, significantly more clients in the meditation condition achieved reliable change in mental health symptoms (35.5% vs. 8.3%) and trauma symptoms (42.3% vs. 4.8%) than clients in the control condition. Significance of the study is discussed with respect to the empirical evidence of meditation practice as a complementary behavioral intervention for treating female trauma survivors of interpersonal violence who have co-occurring disorders.
Marital Status as a Moderating Factor in the Process of Disablement
Authors: Kail Ben Lennox
Published: July 2015

Objective: To test current marital status as a moderator on the influence of depressive symptoms and chronic conditions on subsequent functional limitations. Method: Data come from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; 1998-2010). Hierarchal linear modeling models tested differences in functional limitations among a sample of 20,215 people. Results: At baseline, married people suffered from fewer subsequent functional limitations than the unmarried. Moreover, limited evidence suggests the influence of depressive symptoms was greater for the married than the unmarried; however, the influence of chronic conditions was consistently attenuated for married people. Accounting for differences in prior health, work, socioeconomic status, and health behaviors did not explain the moderating influence of marital status on the associations between symptoms of depression and chronic conditions with functional limitations. Discussion: This research highlights the need to identify potential modifiers that may help disrupt the process of disablement among both the married and the unmarried alike.
Finite-element modeling of thermal aspects in high speed cold strip rolling
Authors: Koohbor Behrad , Moaven Khashayar
Published: July 2015

An integrated model based on finite-element method has been proposed to examine the mechanical and thermal responses of strips and work-rolls in tandem and reverse cold rolling operations. The model has been developed such that the influence of various process parameters, such as lubrication, rolling speed, frictional state and back-up rolls, can be examined. Thermal behaviors of the rolled material and the work-rolls have been analyzed using stream-line upwind Petrov–Galerkin approach, in order to make the model applicable to high-speed rolling processes, as well. The results have been compared to the actual on-line measurements and shown to be of acceptable accuracy. Such modeling approach can be considered as a useful means, providing a detailed insight on the thermo-mechanical response of strips, as well as work-rolls, during high-speed cold rolling of steel strips. Additionally, special attention has been drawn towards the prediction of the occurrence of the metallurgical phenomenon dynamic strain aging based on the results obtained from the numerical modeling in this work.
Milites and Warfare in Pre-Crusade Germany
Authors: Bachrach David Stewart
Published: July 2015

Despite considerable scholarly attention to the issue, there remains considerable controversy regarding the meaning of the term miles in pre-Crusade Europe, with many historians asserting that milites were knights, who dominated warfare through the practice of equestrian combat. This study seeks to examine the ways in which the main narrative sources for the German kingdom in the second half of the eleventh century use the term miles (plural milites). The two goals of this study are to determine the meaning that authors assign to the term, and the role that these authors attribute to milites in the conduct of war during this half-century.
Beating the Odds: Superstition and Human Agency in RAF Bomber Command, 1942–1945
Authors: MacKenzie S.P.
Published: July 2015

Scholars have tended to ignore superstition among RAF Bomber Command aircrews in the Second World War. Among those who have mentioned the subject, furthermore, there has sometimes been a tendency to dismiss charms, talismans, mascots, and rituals as completely irrational and highly regressive. This article argues that at least some common aircrew practices and beliefs were not as irrational as they might superficially appear. It also makes the case that superstitious beliefs and practices helped men to keep flying despite the heavy odds against survival, and that this was why no effort was made by the authorities to curtail them.
Evidence and Interpretation in New Zealand’s Official History: The Battle for Crete, May 1941
Authors: Bell Rachael
Published: July 2015

The battle for Crete, 20 May to 1 June 1941, was an engagement in which New Zealand forces played a key role in the defence, and ultimately the loss, of the island. This article traces the methodology of the New Zealand War History Branch in determining responsibility for the withdrawal from Maleme airfield at the western end of the island and the subsequent impact of the official history’s conclusions on New Zealand’s view of this battle.
Studies on Mounted Warfare in Asia IV: The Turanian Tradition – The Horse Archers of Inner Asia, c. ce 550–1350
Authors: Alofs Eduard
Published: July 2015

In his fourth essay, the author describes the Turanian military tradition of Inner Asia and its relationship to the Iranian tradition, on the basis of topoi both from literature of West Asia, Europe, and China and from the very few ‘Turanian’ sources.
Recovery-based services in a psychiatric intensive care unit – the consumer perspective
Authors: Ash David , Suetani Shuichi , Nair Jayakrishnan , Halpin Matthew
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To describe the implementation of recovery-based practice into a psychiatric intensive care unit, and report change in seclusion rates over the period when these changes were introduced (2011–2013).

Method:

Recovery-based practices including collaborative care, safety care plans, a comfort room, and debriefing after coercive interventions were introduced. A carer consultant was employed. A restraint and seclusion review committee, chaired by a peer worker, was established. A consumer exit interview was introduced and these data were collected, reviewed by staff and the peer worker and used to improve the ward environment. Rates of seclusion were measured during the period when recovery-based practices were introduced.

Results:

Consumer feedback indicated that positive aspects of the psychiatric intensive care unit included approachable, helpful staff and completion of a safety care plan. Negative aspects included lack of involvement in decisions about admission and about medications, the non-smoking policy, and being placed in seclusion or restraint. There was a significant reduction in the number of consumers secluded and the total number of seclusions.

Conclusions:

Recovery principles can be successfully introduced in a psychiatric intensive care unit environment. Introduction of recovery based practice was associated with a reduction in seclusion.
A Conceptual Framework for Mentoring in a Learning Organization
Authors: Klinge Carolyn M.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this article is to provide a conceptual framework for mentoring as an added component of a learning organization in the context of adult learning and development theories. Mentoring is traditionally a process in which an experienced person (the mentor) guides another person (the mentee or protégé) in the development of her or his own ideas, learning, and personal/professional competence. Mentoring uses transformational theory through critical reflection in a non-judgmental manner and addresses the andragogical principle that experience is the richest source for adult learning. In a learning organization, adult development is fostered for both mentee and mentor in a reciprocal and collaborative learning partnership. Critical issues in designing a mentoring program for facilitating the development of a sustainable learning organization are discussed with potential pitfalls. Anticipated outcomes from a mentoring program in a learning organization include application of new knowledge in daily tasks, individual and collaborative analysis of problems and possible solutions, evaluation of new technologies or strategies and determination of their utility, and the creation of new business plans for the learning organization.
In the Beginning of the Middle
Authors: Giebelhausen Robin
Published: July 2015

Middle school general music is an experience that numerous music educators feel underprepared to teach. Because many undergraduate programs spend little time on this teaching scenario and because the challenges of middle school general music are different from those of elementary general music or middle school ensembles, teachers often lack the knowledge to create an appropriate curriculum for the clientele. The author will share her insight on teaching in this atypical scenario by looking at the middle school child and the middle school experience.
Factor Structure of the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) Among Emerging Adults
Authors: Bessaha Melissa L.
Published: July 2015

Objective:

Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the factor structure of the 6-item version of the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6).

Methods:

A subsample of emerging adults, aged 18–29 ( n = 20,699), from the 2013 National Survey of Drug Use and Health were used in this study.

Results:

Each of the models (one-factor, two-factor depression and anxiety and second-order two-factor psychological distress by depression and anxiety) demonstrated good fit, with significant loadings on each factor. The second-order two-factor model and the two-factor model were equivalent and a better fit than the one-factor model.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest that researchers and practitioners may confidently use the K6 to screen for psychological distress symptoms within the emerging adult population.
CEO Intellectual Stimulation and Employee Work Meaningfulness
Authors: Peng Ann Chunyan , Lin Hsing-Er , Schaubroeck John , McDonough Edward F. , Hu Baomin , Zhang Aiguo
Published: July 2015

This study examines the influence of CEOs’ intellectually stimulating behavior, namely, encouraging followers to bring up new perspectives and innovative approaches at work, on employees’ perceptions of the meaningfulness of their work. Drawing from a collective sensemaking lens, we predicted that such CEO behavior would have a greater impact on experienced meaningfulness of work in contexts in which inputs to attributing meaning are less certain and clear-cut. Specifically, we examined the moderating roles of firm performance and industry dynamism. We surveyed the CEOs and employees from 43 firms in innovation-driven industries. Our results show lower firm performance or rapid and unpredictable changes in the industry are associated with a stronger positive relationship between CEO intellectual stimulation and employee work meaningfulness. We discuss the implications of our findings for organizational leadership practices.
Matching without learning
Authors: Caron Pier-Olivier
Published: July 2015

Matching behavior is a phenomenon describing response rate ratios of an organism as a function of their associated reinforcer rate ratios. The generalized matching law (GML), its quantitative formulation, has been frequently found to explain over 80% of the variance in concurrent reinforcement schedules. However, a previous paper found by means of Monte Carlo simulations that matching behavior could be due to environmental constraints on behavior rather than a mere decision-making process. The purpose of the current study is to systemically investigate the influence of constraints induced by concurrent schedules of reinforcement. A Monte Carlo simulation was carried out. Results showed that the GML reached much better explained variances with real (and artificial) organisms than the current simulated results. Thus, a learning process seems partly necessary to generate matching behavior. According to the current findings, concurrent reinforcement schedules clearly induced a quantitative dependency between behavior rates and reinforcer rates. The simulation demonstrates that matching behavior is not only a consequence of a behavioral (decision-making) process, but of environmental conditions also.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Florence Gerson , Sameshima Koichi , Fonoff Erich T. , Hamani Clement
Published: July 2015

High-frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective treatment for some movement disorders. Though mechanisms underlying DBS are still unclear, commonly accepted theories include a “functional inhibition” of neuronal cell bodies and the excitation of axonal projections near the electrodes. It is becoming clear, however, that the paradoxical dissociation “local inhibition” and “distant excitation” is far more complex than initially thought. Despite an initial increase in neuronal activity following stimulation, cells are often unable to maintain normal ionic concentrations, particularly those of sodium and potassium. Based on currently available evidence, we proposed an alternative hypothesis. Increased extracellular concentrations of potassium during DBS may change the dynamics of both cells and axons, contributing not only to the intermittent excitation and inhibition of these elements but also to interrupt abnormal pathological activity. In this article, we review mechanisms through which high extracellular potassium may mediate some of the effects of DBS.
Joint attention revisited: Finding strengths among children with autism
Authors: Hurwitz Sarah , Watson Linda R
Published: July 2015

Differences in joint attention are prominent for some children with autism and are often used as an indicator of the disorder. This study examined the joint attention competencies of young children with autism who demonstrated joint attention ability and compared them to children with developmental delays. A total of 40 children with autism and developmental delays were matched pairwise based on mental and chronological age. Videos of children engaging in play were coded for the frequency and forms (eye contact, gestures, affect, etc.) of joint attention. Additionally, concurrent language was compared among children with autism ( N = 32) by their joint attention ability. Children with autism spectrum disorder entered into joint attention significantly less often than children with developmental delays, but once engaged used the forms of joint attention similarly. For the matched pairs, there were no differences in language, but the children with autism who used joint attention had significantly better language than children with autism who did not (even after controlling for mental age). There is a group of young children with autism who can use joint attention but do so at lower frequencies than children with developmental delays. Possible reasons include difficulty disengaging attention and limited intrinsic social motivation to share. Adult persistence is recommended to encourage joint attention.
From political opponents to enemies? The role of perceived moral distance in the animalistic dehumanization of the political outgroup
Authors: Pacilli Maria Giuseppina , Roccato Michele , Pagliaro Stefano , Russo Silvia
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we analyzed the relationships among political identity, the perception of moral distance between the political ingroup and the political outgroup, and outgroup animalistic dehumanization. One correlational and one experimental study revealed a positive correlation of ingroup identification (Study 1, N = 99) and salience of ingroup membership (Study 2, N = 96) with the degree to which participants dehumanized the outgroup. This relationship was mediated by the perceived moral distance between the ingroup and the outgroup. The limitations, implications, and possible developments derived from the present findings are discussed.
Sharing distress increases helping and contact intentions via social identification and inclusion of the other in the self: Children’s prosocial behaviour after an earthquake
Authors: Vezzali Loris , Drury John , Versari Annalisa , Cadamuro Alessia
Published: July 2015

We surveyed young children ( N = 517) affected by two major earthquakes to shed light on the role of identity processes in relation to the common observation that disasters can bring survivors closer together and enhance helping amongst them. As expected, posttraumatic stress symptoms caused by the earthquake were positively associated with intentions to have contact with and help other survivors of the earthquake, these effects being sequentially mediated by inclusion of the other in the self and by one-group representation. These findings extend previous research on both the antecedents and the behavioural effects of identity-fusion. The results are also the first quantitative test of a social identity account of collective resilience in children. We argue that these findings have practical as well as theoretical significance, as they demonstrate the adaptive function of group processes in informal responses to disasters.
The ecology of arts and humanities education: Bridging the worlds of universities and museums
Authors: Salazar-Porzio Margaret
Published: July 2015

In recent years, colleges and universities have been talking seriously about civic learning, but other stakeholders, particularly public arts, culture, and humanities institutions, must be part of the conversation in order to create a context for learning that develops the skills of graduates in robust ways that reflect the full promise of liberal education. This piece places museums within the ecology of higher education through the experiences of faculty, curators, and students in one of the most museum-rich regions in the nation, Washington, DC. Students bridge the worlds of higher education and museums as research fellows, interns, and young professionals. Their experiences provide a window into thinking about the roles of faculty and curator mentors and the importance of finding the intersections between higher education and museums in the ecology of arts and humanities learning and practice.
Psychology in an Interdisciplinary Setting: A Large-Scale Project to Improve University Teaching
Authors: Koch Franziska D. , Vogt Joachim
Published: July 2015

At a German university of technology, a large-scale project was funded as a part of the ‘Quality Pact for Teaching’, a programme launched by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research to improve the quality of university teaching and study conditions. The project aims at intensifying interdisciplinary networking in teaching, promoting student engagement and motivating students to take a degree in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. We describe the new teaching projects psychology students were admitted to and how many psychology students were reached. We discuss the results and outline limitations concerning evaluation in a practical setting.
Structural Breaks in the Game
Authors: Groothuis Peter A. , Rotthoff Kurt W. , Strazicich Mark C.
Published: July 2015

To search for eras in a sports league, we utilize time-series tests with structural breaks in Major League Baseball performance. Using data from 1871-2010, the mean and standard deviation of four different performance measures are examined. Throughout, rather than assume that a break point is known a priori, we identify breaks endogenously from the data. Perhaps most notable among our findings, we identify a deterministic trend in mean slugging percentage with breaks in 1921 and 1992. Interestingly, these years closely coincide with the early years of the free-swinging (Babe Ruth) era and the modern steroid era, respectively.
Exploring the Evolution of Cortical Excitability Following Acute Stroke
Authors: Huynh William , Vucic Steve , Krishnan Arun V. , Lin Cindy S-Y. , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: July 2015

Background. Evolution of changes in intracortical excitability following stroke, particularly in the contralesional hemisphere, is being increasingly recognized in relation to maximizing the potential for functional recovery. Objective. The present study utilized a prospective longitudinal design over a 12-month period from stroke onset, to investigate the evolution of intracortical excitability involving both motor cortices and their relationship to recovery, and whether such changes were influenced by baseline stroke characteristics. Methods. Thirty-one patients with acute unilateral ischemic stroke were recruited from a tertiary hospital stroke unit. Comprehensive clinical assessments and cortical excitability were undertaken at stroke onset using a novel threshold-tracking paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation technique, and repeated at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up in 17 patients who completed the longitudinal assessment. Results. Shortly following stroke, short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) was significantly reduced in both lesioned and contralesional hemispheres that correlated with degree of recovery over the subsequent 3 months. Over the follow-up period, ipsilesional SICI remained reduced in all patient groups, while SICI over the contralesional hemisphere remained reduced only in the groups with cortical stroke or more baseline functional impairment. Conclusions. The current study has demonstrated that evolution of intracortical excitability, particularly over the contralesional hemisphere, may vary between patients with differing baseline stroke and clinical characteristics, suggesting that ongoing contralesional network recruitment may be necessary for those patients who have significant disruptions to the integrity of ipsilesional motor pathways. Results from the present series have implications for the development of neuromodulatory brain stimulation protocols to harness and thereby facilitate stroke recovery.
Success of Anomia Treatment in Aphasia Is Associated With Preserved Architecture of Global and Left Temporal Lobe Structural Networks
Authors: Bonilha Leonardo , Gleichgerrcht Ezequiel , Nesland Travis , Rorden Chris , Fridriksson Julius
Published: July 2015

Background and Objective. Targeted speech therapy can lead to substantial naming improvement in some subjects with anomia following dominant-hemisphere stroke. We investigated whether treatment-induced improvement in naming is associated with poststroke preservation of structural neural network architecture. Methods. Twenty-four patients with poststroke chronic aphasia underwent 30 hours of speech therapy over a 2-week period and were assessed at baseline and after therapy. Whole brain maps of neural architecture were constructed from pretreatment diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging to derive measures of global brain network architecture (network small-worldness) and regional network influence (nodal betweenness centrality). Their relationship with naming recovery was evaluated with multiple linear regressions. Results. Treatment-induced improvement in correct naming was associated with poststroke preservation of global network small worldness and of betweenness centrality in temporal lobe cortical regions. Together with baseline aphasia severity, these measures explained 78% of the variability in treatment response. Conclusions. Preservation of global and left temporal structural connectivity broadly explains the variability in treatment-related naming improvement in aphasia. These findings corroborate and expand on previous classical lesion-symptom mapping studies by elucidating some of the mechanisms by which brain damage may relate to treated aphasia recovery. Favorable naming outcomes may result from the intact connections between spared cortical areas that are functionally responsive to treatment.
Why Video Game Genres Fail
Authors: Clarke Rachel Ivy , Lee Jin Ha , Clark Neils
Published: July 2015

This article explores the current affordances and limitations of video game genre from a library and information science perspective with an emphasis on classification theory. We identify and discuss various purposes of genre relating to video games, including identity, collocation and retrieval, commercial marketing, and educational instruction. Through the use of examples, we discuss the ways in which these purposes are supported by genre classification and conceptualization and the implications for video games. Suggestions for improved conceptualizations such as family resemblances, prototype theory, faceted classification, and appeal factors for video game genres are considered, with discussions of strengths and weaknesses. This analysis helps inform potential future practical applications for describing video games at cultural heritage institutions such as libraries, museums, and archives, as well as furthering the understanding of video game genre and genre classification for game studies at large.
Optimal control limit policy for age-dependent deteriorating systems under incomplete observations
Authors: Jin Lu , Bayarsaikhan Undarmaa , Suzuki Kazuyuki
Published: July 2015

The focus of this study is the optimal decision making problem for an age-dependent deteriorating system in which the deterioration unfolds as a non-stationary Markov process. The true deterioration state of the system cannot be known directly and is assumed to be observed incompletely by a monitor that provides information related to the true deterioration state stochastically. The optimal decision making problem is formulated as a partially observable Markov decision process. The optimal maintenance policy is investigated and the structural properties of the resulting optimal expected cost function are obtained. These structural properties establish the existence of an optimal control limit policy with respect to both the deterioration information vector and the age of the system under intuitively meaningful assumptions. The monotonic property of the control limits is also clarified.
Precision medicine in colorectal cancer: the molecular profile alters treatment strategies
Authors: Tran Nguyen H. , Cavalcante Ludimila L. , Lubner Sam J. , Mulkerin Daniel L. , LoConte Noelle K. , Clipson Linda , Matkowskyj Kristina A. , Deming Dustin A.
Published: July 2015

When considering treatment options for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), molecular profiling has become a pivotal component in guiding clinical decisions. FOLFOX and FOLFIRI (fluorouracuil, leucovorin plus oxaliplatin or ininotecan, respectively) are the standard base regimens used for the treatment of mCRC. Biologic agents, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapies, cetuximab and panitumumab and the vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody, bevacizumab, are safe and effective in the first-line setting. The most efficacious use of these agents in terms of timing and selection of the right patient population continues to be debated. Here we review multiple investigations into the effectiveness of treatment options as a function of the mutations present in colon cancers. Early studies have reported that KRAS mutations at exon 2 predict resistance to EGFR targeted therapies. More recently the data have expanded to include KRAS mutations at exons 3 and 4 and NRAS mutations at exons 2, 3 and 4 as well as other biomarkers including BRAF and PIK3CA, leading to the evolution of the treatment of mCRC to a more precision-based approach. As our understanding of relevant biomarkers increases, and data from both molecular profiling and treatment response become more readily available, treatment options will become more precise and their outcomes more effective.
Counterfactual Construction of the Future
Authors: Todorova Mariana
Published: July 2015

This article proposes the theory that counterfactual analysis may be used not only for building alternative scenarios of the past but also as a methodology for exploring the future. After defining three aspects of counterfactuality and counterfact (dormant facts, reinterpreted facts, and rumor) and illustrating each in historical contexts, the author outlines their prognostic potential with specific reference to recent events whose differing interpretations have profound implications for future policy and international relations planning. Based on these examples, the author concludes that using counterfactual analysis as a method for developing scenarios and forecasting represents a useful approach toward coping with uncertainty and identifying wild cards, black swans, and so on.
Radiofrequency ablation of unresectable colorectal liver metastases: trends in management and outcome during a decade at a single center
Authors: Labori Knut Jørgen , Schulz Anselm , Drolsum Anders , Guren Marianne Grønlie , Kløw Nils Einar , Bjørnbeth Bjørn Atle
Published: July 2015

Background

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is widely used for treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of increased experience in RFA of CRLM on morbidity and survival, and the trends in patient management and outcomes during the last decade.

Material and Methods

Hospital records of the initial 52 consecutive patients who underwent RFA (56 procedures/70 lesions) were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups according to time period of treatment, period I (2001–2006: n = 26) and period II (2007–2011: n = 26).

Results

Concomitant liver resection was performed in 15 patients in each period. Operative morbidity decreased from 47% to 19% ( P = 0.047). Most complications were found in patients who underwent a concomitant liver resection and not related to the ablation per se. Local recurrence rate decreased from 19.4% to 12.9% ( P = 0.526). At least one risk factor for recurrence was found in patients with local recurrence ( n = 11): subcapsular localization ( n = 4), tumor size >3 cm and subcapsular localization ( n = 2), and perivascular localization (portal veins/hepatic veins) ( n = 5). Median overall survival was 32 months in period I and 49 months in period II, whereas estimated 5-year survival was 19% and 36%, respectively ( P = 0.09). Adjuvant chemotherapy was given to four patients (15.4%) in period I and 13 patients (50%) in period II ( P = 0.017).

Conclusion

RFA alone or in combination with liver resection is a potentially curative treatment to selected patients with CRLM. Over time, the morbidity and survival have improved in RFA of CRLM. Although a possible effect of a learning curve should be taken into consideration in the appraisal of this improvement, it is more likely to be attributable to optimization of indication, development in surgical techniques, and increased use of perioperative chemotherapy.
Health and Gender Comparisons in the Long-Haul Trucking Industry
Authors: Layne Diane M. , Rogers Bonnie , Randolph Susan A.
Published: July 2015

This descriptive pilot study was conducted to determine whether health conditions and health care access differ between male and female long-haul truck drivers. Data indicated that 54% of men and 66% of women had a health care provider, but 21% of men and 35% of women had no health insurance. Male and female drivers both reported common health problems (e.g., back pain, sinus problems, hypertension, headaches, and arthritis). While working, drivers of each gender often waited until returning home to seek treatment for health problems. Approximately half of the drivers expressed dissatisfaction with health care while “on the road.” Occupational and environmental health nurses could address the health needs of drivers by conducting examinations and distributing wellness information at truck stop clinics and from mobile health vans, posting health information within truck stop driver lounges, creating interactive websites with real-time health care information, attending trucker trade shows to conduct health screenings, or providing health information through occupational or trade magazines and newsletters.
Hardness and tensile properties of dissimilar welds joints between SAF 2205 and AISI 316L
Authors: Moteshakker A. , Danaee I. , Moeinifar S. , Ashrafi A.
Published: July 2015

The mechanical properties of dissimilar weld joints between SAF 2205 and AISI 316L were investigated. Welding was accomplished by different types of welding wires: AWS ER 347, AWS ER 316L and AWS ER 309L. Microhardness and tensile tests were accomplished to evaluate hardness of the weld metal toward both sides of the base metals and to determine the strength of the weld joints. The weld metals of all samples exhibited higher hardness values than AISI 316L and lower values than SAF 2205 base metal. Welding wire 309L exhibited higher mechanical properties, while welding wire 347 showed weak mechanical properties. According to results, welding wire 309L was suitable for welding duplex stainless steel to austenitic stainless steel by gas tungsten arc welding process.
Light Trapping Enhancement in a Thin Film with 2D Conformal Periodic Hexagonal Arrays
Authors: Yang Xi , Zhou Suqiong , Wang Dan , He Jian , Zhou Jun , Li Xiaofeng , Gao Pingqi , Ye Jichun
Published: July 2015

Applying a periodic light trapping array is an effective method to improve the optical properties in thin-film solar cells. In this work, we experimentally and theoretically investigate the light trapping properties of two-dimensional periodic hexagonal arrays in the framework of a conformal amorphous silicon film. Compared with the planar reference, the double-sided conformal periodic structures with all feature periodicities of sub-wavelength (300 nm), mid-wavelength (640 nm), and infrared wavelength (2300 nm) show significant broadband absorption enhancements under wide angles. The films with an optimum periodicity of 300 nm exhibit outstanding antireflection and excellent trade-off between light scattering performance and parasitic absorption loss. The average absorption of the optimum structure with a thickness of 160 nm is 64.8 %, which is much larger than the planar counterpart of 38.5 %. The methodology applied in this work can be generalized to rational design of other types of high-performance thin-film photovoltaic devices based on a broad range of materials.
Suppressed diversity of survivin splicing in active rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Turkkila Minna , Andersson Karin M.E. , Amu Sylvie , Brisslert Mikael , Erlandsson Malin C. , Silfverswärd Sofia , Bokarewa Maria I.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Alternative splicing distinguishes normal and pathologic cells. High levels of oncoprotein survivin recognise patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here, we assess clinical relevance of alternative splicing of survivin in leukocytes of peripheral blood (PBMC) and bone marrow (BM) in RA patients.

Method

Transcription of survivin wild-type (survivin-WT), survivin-2B and survivin-ΔEx3 was measured in 67 randomly selected RA patients and in 23 patients before and after B cell depletion with rituximab. Analysis was done in relation to disease activity, anti-rheumatic treatment and serum levels of rheumatoid factor (RF) and survivin.

Results

Survivin-WT was the dominant splice variant equally expressed in T and B cells, while survivin-2B and survivin-ΔEx3 were higher in B cells. High disease activity (DAS28>5.1) was associated with an excess of survivin-WT and low ratios between survivin-2B/WT (p=0.035) and survivin-ΔEx3/WT in PBMC. Depletion of B cells by rituximab caused a decrease in survivin-WT (p=0.005) in PBMC, increasing the ratio between survivin-2B/WT (p=0.009) and survivin-ΔEx3/WT (p=0.001) in BM. This increase in survivin-2B/WT was associated with reduction in CD19+ BM cells (r=0.929, p=0.007), RF (IgM, r=0.857, p=0.024; IgA, r=0.739, p=0.021), and DAS28 (0.636, p=0.054). The increase in survivin-ΔEx3 in BM was associated with a reduction of CD19+ BM cells (r=0.714, p=0.058) and DAS28 (r=0.648, p=0.049), while survivin-ΔEx3/WT was associated with RF (IgG, r=0.882, p=0.016).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the suppressed diversity of survivin splicing in leukocytes may attribute to adverse self-recognition in RA. Depletion of autoantibody producing B cells improves the balance of survivin splicing.
Donor antigen-primed regulatory T cells permit liver regeneration and phenotype correction in hemophilia A mouse by allogeneic bone marrow stem cells
Authors: Kochat Veena , Kanjirakkuzhiyil Sumod , Baligar Prakash , Nagarajan Perumal , Mukhopadhyay Asok
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Cell replacement therapy may be considered as an alternate approach to provide therapeutic dose of plasma factor VIII (FVIII) in patients with hemophilia A (HA). However, immune rejection limits the use of allogeneic cells in this mode of therapy. Here, we have examined the role of donor major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-stimulated host CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells in suppressing immune responses against allogeneic uncommitted (Lin−) bone marrow cells (BMCs) for correction of bleeding disorder in HA mice.

Methods

Allogeneic donor Lin− BMCs were co-transplanted with allo-antigen sensitized Treg cells in HA mice having acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury. Plasma FVIII activity was determined by in vitro functional assay, and correction of bleeding phenotype was assessed on the basis of capillary blood clotting time and tail-clip challenge. The immunosuppression potential of the sensitized Treg cells on CD4+ T cells was studied both in vitro and in vivo. Suppression of inflammatory reactions in the liver against the homed donor cells by sensitized Treg cells was analysed by histopathological scoring. Allo-specificity of sensitized Treg cells and long-term retention of immunosuppression were examined against a third-party donor and by secondary challenge of allogeneic donor cells, respectively. The engraftment and phenotype change of donor BMCs in the liver and their role in synthesis of FVIII and liver regeneration were also determined.

Results

Co-transplantation of allogeneic Lin− BMCs with sensitized Treg cells led to systemic immune modulation and suppression of inflammatory reactions in the liver, allowing better engraftment of allogeneic cells in the liver. Allo-antigen priming led to allo-specific immune suppression even after 1 year of transplantation. Donor-derived endothelial cells expressed FVIII in HA mice, leading to the correction of bleeding phenotype. Donor-derived hepatocyte-like cells, which constitute the major fraction of engrafted cells, supported regeneration of the liver after acute injury.

Conclusions

A highly proficient FVIII secreting core system can be created in regenerating liver by transplanting allogeneic Lin− BMCs in HA mice where transplantation tolerance against donor antigens can be induced by in vitro allo-antigen primed Treg cells. This strategy can be beneficial in treatment of genetic liver disorders for achieving prophylactic levels of the missing proteins.