bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging of Cell–Cell Communication in a Vertical Orientation Reveals High-Resolution Structure of Immunological Synapse and Novel PD-1 Dynamics
Authors: Jang Joon Hee , Huang Yu , Zheng Peilin , Jo Myeong Chan , Bertolet Grant , Zhu Michael Xi , Qin Lidong , Liu Dongfang
Published: June 2015

The immunological synapse (IS) is one of the most pivotal communication strategies in immune cells. Understanding the molecular basis of the IS provides critical information regarding how immune cells mount an effective immune response. Fluorescence microscopy provides a fundamental tool to study the IS. However, current imaging techniques for studying the IS cannot sufficiently achieve high resolution in real cell–cell conjugates. In this study, we present a new device that allows for high-resolution imaging of the IS with conventional confocal microscopy in a high-throughput manner. Combining micropits and single-cell trap arrays, we have developed a new microfluidic platform that allows visualization of the IS in vertically “stacked” cells. Using this vertical cell pairing (VCP) system, we investigated the dynamics of the inhibitory synapse mediated by an inhibitory receptor, programed death protein-1, and the cytotoxic synapse at the single-cell level. In addition to the technique innovation, we have demonstrated novel biological findings by this VCP device, including novel distribution of F-actin and cytolytic granules at the IS, programed death protein-1 microclusters at the NK IS, and kinetics of cytotoxicity. We propose that this high-throughput, cost-effective, easy-to-use VCP system, along with conventional imaging techniques, can be used to address a number of significant biological questions in a variety of disciplines.
Functional species traits of carabid beetles living in two riparian alder forests of the Sila plateau subject to different disturbance factors (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: Mazzei Antonio , Bonacci Teresa , Gangale Carmen , Pizzolotto Roberto , Brandmayr Pietro
Published: June 2015

We studied carabid beetle assemblages found in riparian black alder forests in the Sila plateau (Southern Apennines). These carabid assemblages are characterized by a high incidence of endemic small-sized, low dispersal, highly stenotopic (hygrophilic), and trophycally specialized species. To evaluate the influence of anthropogenic disturbance on these insects, we compared carabid assemblage of an old undisturbed forest (65-170y, wilderness landscape) with that of a younger, partly grazed stand (40-60y, cropland landscape). The carabid assemblage of the disturbed stand was characterized by a higher number of species, but showed a lower incidence of zoophagous specialists and brachypterous beetles, with many species probably coming from an adjacent cropland. However, the disturbed stand maintains almost 80% of the core species found in the older forest, which suggests that these insects are not particularly sensitive to disturbance factors represented by periodic wood harvesting and extensive cattle grazing.
Reporting epidemiology of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Ambretti Simone , Gagliotti Carlo , Luzzaro Francesco , Malacarne Paolo , Pan Angelo , Pieretti Barbara , Tascini Carlo , Sarti Mario , CoSIAS-AMCLI Comitato
Published: June 2015

The aim of antimicrobial resistance surveillance is to monitor temporal trends and provide clinicians with data to define empirical treatment protocols. The surveillance methods adopted in different settings can be significantly different and, therefore, no reference can be made to a single set of standards. This paper outlines the main features of analysis and reporting of antimicrobial resistance data according to the guidelines issued by the US Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, and the surveillance systems adopted in Europe. In this article the strengths and weaknesses of the various types of analyses will be discussed highlighting the critical aspects to be taken into account in surveillance data reporting.
Urbanophile-, urbanoneutral- and urbanophobe species: a comparison among the floras of Trieste, Udine and Pordenone (Friuli Venezia Giulia, north-eastern Italy).
Authors: Martini Fabrizio
Published: June 2015

The paper presents the comparison of the flora of three cities (Trieste, Udine and Pordenone) on the basis of different response of the species towards the urban ecosystem (urbanophobe-, urbanophile-, urbanoneutral species). Biological and chorological spectra show a clear correlation between the different distribution models with biological forms and chorotypes.
A comparison among the distribution models of the three urban centers showed a higher affinity between Udine and Pordenone.

Vengono riportati i risultati del confronto delle flore di tre città dell’Italia nord-orientale (Trieste, Udine e Pordenone) sulla base dei modelli distributivi relativi al diverso comportamento delle specie nei confronti dell’ecosistema urbano (specie urbanofobe, urbanofile ed urbanoneutrali). Gli spettri biologico e corologico mostrano una netta correlazione fra i diversi modelli distributivi, le forme biologiche e i corotipi. Dal confronto fra i modelli distributivi dei tre centri urbani è emersa una maggior affinità fra Udine e Pordenone.
The discovery of the brain lymphatic system
Authors: Zamboni Paolo
Published: June 2015

Not required
Assessing Nonverbal Communication Skills Through Video Recording and Debriefing of Clinical Skill Simulation Exams
Authors: Heinerichs Scott , Cattano Nicole M , Morrison Katherine E.
Published: June 2015

Context

Nonverbal communication (NVC) skills are a critical component to clinician interactions with patients, and no research exists on the investigation of athletic training students' nonverbal communication skills. Video recording and debriefing have been identified as methods to assess and educate students' NVC skills in other allied health care fields.

Objective

To investigate whether athletic training students perceived video recording and debriefing of their simulation exams to be an effective method for learning and assessing their NVC skills.

Design

Survey.

Setting

A standard athletic training education laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

A convenience sample of 47 participants enrolled in an upper-level athletic training laboratory course.

Data Collection and Analysis

Descriptive statistics were conducted on combined items from NVC feedback forms that students completed after three simulation exams.

Results

While 96% of the students thought their ability to assess their NVC communication skills had improved and 98% actually felt that their NVC skills improved as a result of this method, all participants agreed this was a worthwhile experience.

Conclusion(s)

Similar to medical and nursing literature, students felt that video recording and debriefing of clinical simulation exams were worthwhile and valuable methods for learning about and evaluating their NVC skills.
Student Perceptions of an Athletic Training Residential Living Community
Authors: Bradney Debbie A. , Bowman Thomas G.
Published: June 2015

Context

Colleges and universities are implementing new academic and social programs to retain students. One possible program is a residential living community (RLC) devoted to a content area.

Objective

To understand the perceptions of athletic training students involved in an RLC.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Athletic training program.

Patients or Other Participants

Ten athletic training students (8 female, 2 male; average age = 19.50 ± 0.97 years) who participated in an RLC during their first year in college volunteered to participate.

Data Collection and Analysis

We used QuestionPro to complete in-depth interviews by having the participants journal their responses to open-ended questions. We used grounded theory to uncover the dominant themes and negotiated over the coding scheme, completed member checks, and performed a peer review to establish trustworthiness.

Results

The overall theme of our data pertained to the supportive nature of the RLC allowing for early socialization. Specifically, we uncovered 3 subthemes. The participants found study opportunities common because they lived in close proximity to peers in the same classes. Our participants believed the RLC provided a supportive environment by fostering a support network with classmates navigating similar challenges. Students also enjoyed early socialization by having a resident assistant who was an upper-level athletic training student. The final theme emerged from the unintended consequences of the RLC. Finding a quiet area in which to study became difficult and students often had trouble making personal connections outside of athletic training.

Conclusions

The RLC promoted first-year student success by fostering relationships and providing early socialization to the demands of the athletic training program. Some negative aspects did occur; however, these can be remedied by having quiet study spaces available and providing students with sufficient time outside of athletic training to pursue extracurricular endeavors.
Program Director Perspectives on Athletic Training Student Motivation to Complete Their Professional Athletic Training Degrees
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G. , Dodge Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Student motivation has been linked to persistence until graduation for athletic training students. There is little research, however on ways athletic training programs (ATPs) foster student motivation.

Objective

To expand upon the existing literature regarding retention of students in ATPs, specifically examining the concept of student motivation to complete degree requirements from the perspective of the program director (PD).

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

One-on-one telephone interviews.

Patients or Other Participants

Eight PDs from professional master's and 16 PDs from undergraduate ATPs.

Data Collection and Analysis

We asked PDs to participate in a tape-recorded semistructured telephone interview. We analyzed data using a general inductive approach and secured credibility by utilizing member checks, multiple analyst triangulation, and peer review.

Results

Motivation for degree completion, as evaluated by the PD, is fostered by internal motivation, program pride and continued tradition of program success, and accomplishment of the personal goal to become an athletic trainer. Conversely, 1 major theme, disinterest or dissatisfaction with a career in athletic training, evolved as a reason to not remain motivated to complete the degree requirements for athletic training.

Conclusions

Program directors reported that internal drive and the achievement of personal goals influence the persistence of students in their ATPs. Students are also motivated by the successes of previous students in the program and feel a responsibility to uphold the legacy.
Help-Seeking Behaviors Among Athletic Training Students in the Clinical Education Setting: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nakajima Mikiko Aoyagi , Freesemann Keith W.
Published: June 2015

Context

Help-seeking is an important self-regulating and proactive strategy that prepares students to be successful learners. It is particularly important in the clinical education setting, in which students must actively engage in learning.

Objective

To determine both the type of help-seeking behaviors used by athletic training students in the clinical education setting and the relationship between help-seeking behaviors and achievement in their athletic training program.

Design

Cross-sectional exploratory study.

Setting

Online survey.

Patients or Other Participants

Athletic training students from one Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited athletic training program.

Data Collection and Analysis

An online survey was developed using previously validated help-seeking and general self-efficacy scales and several demographic questions. Factorial multivariate analysis of variance and multivariate analysis of covariance and univariate analyses determined differences among respondents' demographic characteristics and other variables.

Results

A total of 38 athletic training students responded to the online survey. There was a significant main effect for passing/failing of competency exams (Wilks λ = 0.680, F = 3.061, P = .034), semester (Wilks λ = 0.485, F = 6.905, P = .001), and interaction effect (Wilks λ = 0.591, P = .007). Follow-up analysis showed that first-semester students who passed had significantly lower scores for avoidance of help-seeking (M = 1.229 ± 0.282) compared to first-semester students who didn't pass (M = 1.994 ± 0.079; P = .004).

Conclusions

Students typically engaged in help-seeking behaviors beneficial for learning (ie, instrumental help-seeking). However, students who engaged in avoidance help-seeking had lower achievement scores when measured by the passing/failing of their competency exam at the end of their respective semester. Preceptors and athletic training educators are encouraged to detect the type of help-seeking behaviors students use and guide them to those that are conducive to learning and success.
Factors Influencing Senior Athletic Training Students' Preparedness to Enter the Workforce
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Benes Sarah S.
Published: June 2015

Context

Athletic training education programs must provide the student with opportunities to learn the roles and responsibilities of the athletic trainer.

Objective

Investigate factors that help prepare the athletic training student (ATS) to successfully enter the workplace upon graduation from her undergraduate program.

Design

Exploratory qualitative study using phone interviews.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Twenty-six interviews were conducted with ATSs (7 men, 19 women) who were pursuing an athletic training position postgraduation.

Data Collection and Analysis

Interview data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed utilizing the specific procedures of grounded theory. Trustworthiness of the data was established by using 2 specific strategies, including (1) member checks and (2) multiple analyst triangulation.

Results

Two themes emerged from the data explaining the ATS level of preparedness, as they got ready to assume a position in the athletic training workforce: diversified clinical experience along with strong mentorship.

Conclusions

Athletic training educators need to promote the mentorship relationship between the ATS and clinical instructor as it helps the ATSs gain self-confidence in their clinical abilities. Moreover, by providing variety in clinical experiences the ATS can gain a holistic impression of the field, thus gaining an appreciation for the varying roles within each clinical setting while developing clinical competence and confidence.
Factors Influencing Athletic Training Students' Perceptions of the Athletic Training Profession and Career Choice
Authors: Benes Sarah S. , Mazerolle Stephanie M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Successful athletic training programs should help students develop a desire to work within the athletic training profession while providing adequate preparation for them to enter the workforce. Understanding athletic training students' perceptions of the profession as they leave programs and the factors that influence these perceptions is critical in ensuring retention of graduating students in the field.

Objective

To examine senior athletic training students' [SATSs] attitudes, opinions, and perceptions of the athletic training profession and to gain insight into the factors that influence their career choice.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited athletic training education programs.

Patients or Other Participants

A total of 26 SATSs (7 men, 19 women) who graduated in 2011.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

We collected data using semistructured phone interviews and implemented a grounded theory approach to analyze the data. We used member checks and multiple-analyst triangulation strategies to establish the trustworthiness of the data.

Results

The SATSs reported positive and negative perceptions about the profession within 2 major categories: (1) aspects of the profession and (2) public understanding of the profession. “Aspects of the profession” was described by long hours/schedule, low salary, family conflict issues, future of the profession, dynamism of the profession, and profession people enjoy. The “Public understanding of the profession” was articulated by public misconception and a lack of respect for the profession. Factors that influence their perceptions are related to prior experience with athletic training/sports, clinical experiences, and interaction with athletic training professionals.

Conclusions

The SATSs have developed positive and negative perceptions about the profession through their professional preparations. These are influenced by their progression through the program wherein they develop confidence and feel prepared to enter the workforce with a better understanding of and passion for the profession.
Reflective Observation in the Clinical Education Setting: A Way to Promote Learning
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G. , Benes Sarah S.
Published: June 2015

Context

Clinical experiences help athletic training students gain real-time learning experiences by engaging in patient care. Observational learning has been identified as important to athletic training student development, yet little is known about its effectiveness.

Objective

To explore the athletic training students' perspectives on their experiences in the clinical education setting, particularly examining the effectiveness of observational learning.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited undergraduate programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Twenty-four athletic training students (7 juniors and 17 seniors) from 4 National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) districts volunteered to participant in our study. The average age was 21 years (range, 20–23 years).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants responded to a series of open-ended questions by journaling their thoughts and opinions through the secure Web site QuestionPro. Questions examined clinical education experiences and learning preferences. The resulting data were analyzed using a general inductive procedure, and credibility was established by employing peer review, member checks, and multiple analyst triangulation.

Results

Our analysis revealed that observational learning can benefit students when academic standing is considered, the circumstances are right, and it allows for directed mentoring. Our participants valued opportunities to engage in observational learning, as long as it was limited and purposeful.

Conclusions

All 24 participants identified themselves as hands-on learners who preferred to be actively engaged during their learning experiences, but who also valued opportunities to observe their preceptors demonstrating and modeling appropriate skills and behaviors before engaging in the same practices themselves. Today's student, the millennial, appears to favor visual learning, which may partially explain why our cohort of athletic training students described observational learning as advantageous in certain situations.
Programmatic Factors Associated with Undergraduate Athletic Training Student Retention and Attrition Decisions
Authors: Bowman Thomas G. , Hertel Jay , Wathington Heather D.
Published: June 2015

Context

Athletic training programs (ATPs) are charged with meeting an increased demand for athletic trainers with adequate graduates. Currently, the retention rate of athletic training students in ATPs nationwide and the programmatic factors associated with these retention rates remain unknown.

Objective

Determine the retention rate for athletic training students nationwide and the programmatic factors associated with retention.

Design

Cross-sectional online survey.

Setting

Undergraduate ATPs.

Patients or Other Participants

Program directors (PDs) of all Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited undergraduate ATPs were surveyed. We obtained responses from 177 of the 343 PDs (51.6%).

Intervention(s)

The survey asked PDs for information about their institution, ATP, and themselves.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Self-reported retention rate.

Results

The participants reported an average retention rate of 81.0% ± 17.9%. We found a significant prediction equation (F4,167 = 16.39, R2 = 0.282, P < .001), using the perceptions of student success factor (P < .001, R2 = 0.162), the timing of formal admission (P < .001, R2 = 0.124), the number of years the ATPs had been accredited (P = .001, R2 = 0.039), the number of students admitted to the ATP annually (P = .001, R2 = 0.037), and the number of years the PDs had held their position at their current institution (P = .03, R2 = 0.018).

Conclusions

Program directors should work to provide a stimulating atmosphere to motivate students. Delaying the formal admission of prospective students may allow athletic training students to make an informed decision to enter an ATP. A rich history of success and consistent leadership can provide an ATP environment that fosters retention. Program directors should carefully consider how many students to admit into the ATP annually, as individual attention may alter retention decisions of athletic training students.
Video Educational Intervention Improves Reporting of Concussion and Symptom Recognition
Authors: Hunt Tamerah N.
Published: June 2015

Context

Concussion management is potentially complicated by the lack of reporting due to poor educational intervention in youth athletics.

Objective

Determine if a concussion-education video developed for high school athletes will increase the reporting of concussive injuries and symptom recognition in this group.

Design

Cross-sectional, between groups.

Setting

Athletes participating in South Carolina interscholastic athletics.

Patients or Other Participants

High school athletes (N = 68; males n = 42; females n = 26; mean age = 14.78 ± 1.38 years) participated in this study. The athletes were randomly assigned into 2 groups: concussion education (n = 34) and control (n = 34).

Main Outcome Measures

Participants were administered a survey before and after watching a video about concussion incidence, symptoms, and reporting conditions (intervention group) or a nutrition video (control group). Total symptom score and survey items served as dependent variables. Examination of group differences was performed through χ2 analyses and repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) calculations in SPSS 19.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL). Significance levels were set a priori at .05.

Results

Of all participants, 70.5% (48/68) reported not knowing the signs and symptoms of concussion before the study, and 26.5% (n = 18) reported having had at least 1 prior concussion. A statistically significant difference existed between those reporting having vs. not having knowledge of the signs and symptoms of concussion on total symptom score at baseline (t1,66 = 2.17, P = .038). Repeated-measures ANOVA calculated a statistically significant difference for concussion symptom recognition before and after the intervention (F1,66 = 7.47, P = .008)

Conclusions

A large percentage of high school athletes do not know the signs and symptoms of concussion. After an educational video, participants' symptom knowledge and previous concussions reported increased. Education of those involved in athletics using a standardized tool may increase reporting and aid in the assessment and management of concussion in this population.
Variability in Clinical Integration Achieved by Athletic Training Students Across Different Clinical Sport Assignments
Authors: Dodge Thomas M. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G.
Published: June 2015

Context

Clinical integration impacts athletic training students' (ATSs) motivation and persistence. Research has yet to elucidate the manner in which different clinical placements can influence clinical integration.

Objective

To examine differences in the levels of clinical integration achieved by ATSs across various clinical sport assignments.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Thirteen undergraduate athletic training programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Questionnaires were administered to 169 ATSs previously engaged in clinical education experiences. One hundred twenty-nine participants completed the questionnaire, for a response rate of 76.33%. Participants completed an average of 4 ± 2 clinical rotations.

Intervention(s)

The 11-item clinical integration scale was administered either in-person or online methods. Responses were scored on a 6-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree to 6 = strongly agree).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Mean clinical integration scores (potential minimum score of 11, maximum score of 66), were calculated for each clinical placement. One-way analysis of variance was used to identify differences in clinical integration achieved across clinical placements.

Results

We found differences in clinical integration achieved across various clinical assignments (F19,415 = 3.486, P < .001). Students completing a rotation with college football achieved the lowest levels of clinical integration (46.9 ± 9.1). Other sports rated higher, ranging from 51.6 ± 10.1 (baseball) to 57.8 ± 4.5 (lacrosse), with all reporting less anxiety and time wasting than were associated with football. The high school rotation was also rated highly (54.7 ± 6.4), with higher levels of learning reported and fewer concerns about anxiety, excessive hours, and wasting time.

Conclusions

There were clear differences in clinical integration achieved between sites. In particular, ATSs completing clinical rotations with college football reported the lowest levels of clinical integration. These low levels of integration stemmed from feelings of wasting time, completing menial tasks, excessive hours, and anxiety associated with the educational experience.
Standardized Patient Encounters and Individual Case-Based Simulations Improve Students' Confidence and Promote Reflection: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Walker Stacy , Weidner Thomas , Armstrong Kirk J.
Published: June 2015

Context

Simulations and standardized patient (SP) encounters are used to provide clinical experiences for students. In athletic training, no research has examined the perceived educational benefits of these interventions.

Objective

To explore athletic training students' perceptions regarding small group SP encounters and individual case-based simulations (CBSs).

Design

Grounded theory.

Setting

One midwestern university.

Patients or Other Participants

Nine athletic training students (3 males, 6 females; 20 ± 0.833 years old) who enrolled in a lower extremity orthopaedic evaluation course during their first or second semester in an athletic training program.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Semistructured interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using open coding and axial and selective coding (ie, to develop themes/threads). To ensure trustworthiness, we used member checks and peer debriefing.

Results

For both the small group SP counter and individual CBS, 2 themes emerged: (1) reflection-on-specific action and (2) increased confidence. Participants reflected on both experiences when providing patient care. Participants felt that both encounters could improve their confidence with regard to future clinical evaluations. Specific to the small group SP encounters, peer-assisted learning emerged as a theme. Participants felt they learned from and with each other when performing the evaluation together. Specific to the individual CBS, organization of thoughts emerged as a theme. During the individual CBSs, participants felt they developed, controlled, and organized their thoughts during the evaluation.

Conclusions

Both teaching encounters can be integrated into the curriculum of an athletic training program. Each strategy provides students with a nonthreatening educational experience with no harm to patients. In addition, each encounter can correspond to content taught in the classroom or laboratory. The long-term benefits of small group SP encounters and CBSs are unclear, and more research is needed.
Role of Clinical Education Experiences on Athletic Training Students' Development of Professional Commitment
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Dodge Thomas
Published: June 2015

Context

Limited evidence exists on the role clinical education can play in the development of athletic training student commitment for the profession.

Objective

Investigating the role clinical education experiences play on the development of passion for athletic training.

Design

Exploratory qualitative study.

Setting

Athletic training education programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Seventeen students (8 males, 9 females) volunteered. Students represented both junior (13) and senior (4) levels, were engaged in 23 ± 5 hours per week of clinical education, and were 20 ± 2 years old.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

One-on-one, in-person interviews following a semistructured format. Multiple analyst triangulation and member checks were included as steps to establish data credibility.

Results

A positive clinical education experience as described by this cohort of students was inclusive of strong mentorship, realism, professional commitment of the preceptor, and clinical skill integration. In combination, these attributes appear to help students develop their professional commitment for athletic training. Preceptors who provided mentorship by modeling appropriate professional behaviors, providing a realistic perspective to their role, and showing enthusiasm allowed the students in this study to gain an accurate understanding of the profession. Opportunities to develop clinical skills with feedback for improvement demonstrated the preceptors' commitment to the profession and the student and was valued as contributing to the overall experience.

Conclusions

The development of the athletic training student's commitment to the profession is directly related to a positive clinical education experience facilitated by a preceptor who is also passionate about the job. Preceptors are encouraged to provide the athletic training student with a realistic impression of the clinical setting in which they are gaining experiences in order for them to fully understand their future role and responsibilities. Maintaining an optimistic but pragmatic attitude is also valued by the athletic training student.
Why do women not return for CD4 count results at Embhuleni Hospital, Mpumalanga, South Africa?
Authors: Nzaumvila Doudou K. , Mabuza Langalibalele H.
Published: June 2015

Background: According to the South African Policy and guidelines for the implementation of the PMTCT programme of 2008, all pregnant women who tested HIV-positive also had to have their CD4 count measured in order to inform the option of Prevention of Mother-to-ChildTreatment (PMTCT): to be put on lifelong treatment or to be placed on temporary PMTCT. They were required to return for the results within two weeks, but some did not return, implying that they did not benefit from the programme. This study was conducted to establish their reasons for not returning.Objectives: To explore the reasons given by women attending antenatal care for not returning for the results of their CD4 count done for PMTCT at Embhuleni Hospital and satellite clinics, Mpumalanga.Methods: The study was a qualitative study using the free-attitude interview technique. Women who had not returned for their results were traced and interviewed on their reasons for not returning. Interviews were conducted in Siswati, audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and translated into English for analysis. Data saturation was reached by the eighth participant. A thematic analysis was conducted.Results: The themes that emerged were: participants were not informed about the PMTCTprocess; poor service delivery from the healthcare practitioners; unprofessional healthcare practitioners’ conduct; shortages of medication in the healthcare facilities; fear of social stigma; and poor patient socioeconomic conditions.Conclusion: The reasons for not returning were mainly based on participants’ experiences during consultations at the healthcare centres and their perceptions of the healthcare practitioners. Healthcare practitioners should adhere to the tenets of professionalism in order to address this problem.
South African Family Practice Manual (third edition): Book Review
Authors: Gaede Bernard
Published: June 2015

No abstract available.
Investigating learners’ meta-representational competencies when constructing bar graphs
Authors: Mhlolo Michael
Published: June 2015

Current views in the teaching and learning of data handling suggest that learners should create graphs of data they collect themselves and not just use textbook data. It is presumed real-world data creates an ideal environment for learners to tap from their pool of stored knowledge and demonstrate their meta-representational competences. Although prior knowledge is acknowledged as a critical resource out of which expertise is constructed, empirical evidence shows that new levels of mathematical thinking do not always build logically and consistently on previous experience. This suggests that researchers should analyse this resource in more detail in order to understand where prior knowledge could be supportive and where it could be problematic in the process of learning. This article analyses Grade 11 learners’meta-representational competences when constructing bar graphs. The basic premise was that by examining the process of graph construction and how learners respond to a variety of stages thereof, it was possible to create a description of a graphical frame or a knowledge representation structure that was stored in the learner’s memory. Errors could then be described and explained in terms of the inadequacies of the frame, that is: ‘Is the learner making good use of the stored prior knowledge?’ A total of 43 learners were observed over a week in a classroom environment whilst they attempted to draw graphs for data they had collected for a mathematics project. Four units of analysis are used to focus on how learners created a frequency table, axes, bars and the overall representativeness of the graph vis-à-vis the data. Results show that learners had an inadequate graphical frame as they drew a graph that had elements of a value bar graph, distribution bar graph and a histogram all representing the same data set. This inability to distinguish between these graphs and the types of data they represent implies that learners were likely to face difficulties with measures of centre and variability which are interpreted differently across these three graphs but are foundational in all statistical thinking.
Ubuntu and the journey of listening to the Rwandan genocide story
Authors: De Beer Anna-Marie
Published: June 2015

In the face of collective trauma such as genocide, apartheid, mass killings and xenophobia,ubuntu requires of us to show solidarity with our fellow human beings. To my mind, one of the highest forms of doing so is to open up spaces of authentic listening to the stories of those who have experienced these atrocities. In the genocide narratives of the commemorative project Rwanda: �crire par devoir de m�moire (Rwanda: Writing as a duty to memory), travelling and writing become a mode of listening and transformation. However, this theme is articulated very differently in the many texts which form part of the project. This article concentrates on one such representation of the transformative voyage that the writers propose, namely the highly symbolic work of Koulsy Lamko.
A “new vista” in the assessment of antero-posterior jaw relationship
Authors: Mittal Divi , Venkatesh Shivanand , Shivamurthy Prashantha Govinakovi , Mathew Silju
Published: June 2015

Aim

The purpose of this investigation was to (1) compare the credibility of four recently introduced cephalometric measurements in assessing the antero-posterior jaw relationship; (2) To assess the correlation between various measurements used for assessment of antero-posterior discrepancy, including Yen linear, Yen angle, W angle and Pi angle.

Materials and Methods

The sample size for the study consisted of 45 subjects with age group of 15-19 years (mean age 17 ± 2.1) and was subdivided into Skeletal Class I, II and III groups of 15 each based upon the ANB angle derived from the pre treatment lateral cephalogram. Landmarks were located and Yen angle, Yen linear, W angle and Pi angle were assessed for each group. All the lateral cephalograms were traced by a single examiner. Intra examiner reliability was assessed by Intraclass co-efficient correlation (ICC) test. Correlation coefficients were obtained for each of parameters to compare their relationship with other parameters in Class I group. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were run to examine sensitivity and specificity of all the angles.

Results

The results showed that ICC for all the groups were ≥0.90 showing good repeatability of the measurements. There was statistically significant correlation between Yen angle and ANB angle, Yen linear and Yen angle for Class I group, between W angle and Yen angle for Class II group, between Yen angle, Yen linear and ANB for Class III group. ROC curves showed that Pi angle had 100% sensitivity and specificity to discriminate a Class II and a Class III group from a Class I and a Class III group from a Class II. Yen linear and W angle showed very low specificity to differentiate a Class II from a Class I group.

Interpretation and Conclusion

The new parameters considered in the study were found to be equally reliable and are not affected much by local remodeling due to tooth movements or by occlusal or Frankfurt horizontal plane. These parameters measure the antero-posterior discrepancy more consistently and accurately, with Pi angle being the most accurate.
Biomass reduction of Salvinia molesta exposed to copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4.5H2O)
Authors: Barros João Pedro Alves de Azevedo , Henares Matheus Nicolino Peixoto
Published: June 2015

Copper in the aquatic ecosystem may remain adsorbed or be incorporated into the biomass and undergo biomagnification causing unwanted effects to aquatic macrophyte communities. This study evaluated the biomass reduction of Salvinia molesta (Mitchell) exposed to copper sulphate pentahydrate (CuSO4.5H2O) under laboratory conditions. Approximately 20.5 g of fresh mass (FM) of S. molesta (0.74 g dry matter, DM) were placed in glass tanks with different concentrations (n = 3) of CuSO4.5H2O as follows: 0.0; 2.0; 4.0; 6.0; and 8.0 mg L-1 for 28 days. The dry mass was determined after each seven-day interval over 28 days and submitted to repeated ANOVA measures, followed by a Tukey test (P
‘Reterritorialising’ the land: Agaat and cartography
Authors: Fincham Gail
Published: June 2015

In this article, I look at the ways in which Marlene van Niekerk’s Agaat re-orders the ideas of stewardship and land ownership in the South African plaasroman by invoking notions of cartography. I argue that cartography is particularly important for postcolonial theory because writers may project spaces other than, or position themselves in the spaces between, those endorsed by dominant cultures. This is particularly significant for feminism. I argue that the story of mapmaking is important both in Jakkie’s frame narrative and in the central narrative dominated by Milla de Wet and her servant Agaat. Together the female protagonists’ participation in mapmaking and their use of the alphabet chart through which Milla originally taught Agaat language enables them to escape phallogocentrism. This process of liberation climaxes in their joint involvement in Agaat’s embroidery. By embedding Milla’s and Agaat’s stories in the story of maps, van Niekerk brings about ‘a new relationship to the land, to other people and to the tradition of Afrikaans literature’ (Gerrit Olivier, "The Dertigers and the Plaasroman: Two Brief Perspectives on Afrikaans Literature").
Dystopian future visions in Afrikaans novels published after 1999: A relationship between past and future
Authors: Barendse Joan-Mari
Published: June 2015

Viljoen identifies an engagement with history and “dystopic views” as separate trends in recent Afrikaans literature. In investigating characteristics of recent Afrikaans dystopian futurist novels it becomes apparent that the past also plays an important role in the visions of the future that is created. The past is an important premise in dystopian literature in general. It can be linked to the protagonist’s search for identity and meaning in the dystopian space. This article explores the relationship between the past and future in Afrikaans dystopian futurist novels published after 1999. Specific reference is made to the following dystopian novels by established Afrikaans writers: Oemkontoe van die nasie (2001) by P. J. Haasbroek, Raka die roman (2005) by Koos Kombuis and Horrelpoot (2006) by Eben Venter. The self-published dystopian novels Die Nege kerse van Magriet (2006) by Barend P. J. Erasmus and Beslissing in die Karoo (2011) by Sebastiaan Biehl, which lie outside the mainstream of Afrikaans literature, are also discussed. These novels by Erasmus and Biehl are written from an extreme right-wing perspective and differ from the more mainstream novels in their portrayal of a future South Africa. In this paper I explore the role of references to South African history in the construction of the future in the Afrikaans dystopian novels published after 1999. I discuss how the Afrikaner characters use the past in their search for identity in a postcolonial and post-apartheid context.
Visions of the future in the ‘new’ Swahili novel: Hope in desperation?
Authors: Gromov Mikhail
Published: June 2015

The ‘new’ novel in Swahili, the most significant phenomenon in Swahili literature in the recent decades, has dealt with the questions of the future of the African continent and the world as one of its central themes. Kenyan and Tanzanian authors, whose novels are analysed in the article, present in their works a rather gloomy, apocalyptic-type visions of the future of humanity - but at the same time, leave the readers with hope that the catastrophic situations described in their books may be prevented or solved by joint effort of all the people of Africa joined into one nation.
To a dubious critical salvation: Etienne Leroux and the canons of South African English criticism
Authors: Penfold Greg , De Kock Leon
Published: June 2015

This article presents a case study in cross-cultural literary reception following the act of literary translation—in this instance, of author Etienne Leroux—from Afrikaans into English. It describes the literary reception of Leroux in general terms, in Afrikaans and Dutch in the first place and subsequently in English (South Africanist) criticism. Our focus falls on the translation and subsequent reception of Leroux’s major novel, Sewe dae by die Silbersteins, first published in Afrikaans in 1962, and crowned with the Hertzog Prize in 1964. The novel’s rendering into English by poet Charles Eglington (Seven Days at the Silbersteins) in 1964 provides the centrepoint of our study. We argue that this translation, along with the several forms of what André Lefevere calls “rewriting” (in literary-critical registers) that it engendered, created disjunctive moments of cross-lingual critical reception in which dubious conclusions hardened into routine paraphrase or accepted “wisdom” in English criticism. By “rewriting” in this case, following Lefevere, we mean inter-lingual re descriptions of literary works within literary-critical histories or reviews that are often based on translations, and on readings of them in relative isolation from their fuller context in the original language (here, Afrikaans).
Changes in responsiveness to kit odours across pregnancy: relevance for the onset of maternal behaviour
Authors: Chirino Rosario , González-Mariscal Gabriela
Published: June 2015

Virgin does are indifferent to foster kits but lesions to the main or accessory olfactory systems allow them to behave “maternally” (i.e., they crouch over the litter and allow suckling). This suggests that kit-derived olfactory cues are aversive to virgins but not to lactating does. We hypothesised that the valence of such olfactory cues changes throughout gestation so that, at parturition, does are attracted to the newborn and can then show placentophagia, clean the kits and nurse them. To explore this hypothesis we exposed does to 2 nest boxes containing a variety of pup-derived vs. “neutral” odours, quantifying the number of sniffs and entrances to each box over 60 min. Virgins, confronted with 2 different types of contrasts, showed no significant differences in the number of sniffs or entrances directed at any of the 2 boxes. Pregnant rabbits sniffed the “kit-odour” box significantly more than the “neutral” one as early as gestation day 7, depending on the animals’ experience with the experimental setup and kit odours as virgins. The number of sniffs declined in late pregnancy in all groups. Entrances into the “kit-odour” box were few and significantly higher than those shown towards the “neutral” box only in 1 group. Our findings agree with a correlation between a shift in the valence of kit-derived olfactory cues and the hormonal changes known to occur throughout pregnancy. The relevance of this phenomenon for the onset of maternal responsiveness at parturition is discussed.
Acute toxicity and sublethal effects of phenol on hematological parameters of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus and pacu Piaractus mesopotamicus
Authors: Moraes Fernanda Dias de , Figueiredo Juliana Sá Leal de , Rossi Priscila Adriana , Venturini Francine Perri , Moraes Gilberto
Published: June 2015

Phenol is an aromatic chemical commonly found in domestic and industrial effluents that represents a worldwide concern in toxicology. When it reaches aquatic environments, significant damage in fishes is observed. The first aim of this study was to investigate the acute toxicity levels of phenol in Ictalurus punctatus and Piaractus mesopotamicus. The second objective was to evaluate the hematological parameters of I. punctatus and P. mesopotamicus after 96 hours exposure to sublethal concentration of phenol (10% of 96-hour LC50) and after post-exposure recovery period of 7 days. The main hypothesis of the study was that even sublethal phenol concentration could cause hematological alterations in fish. For 96-hour LC50 tests, both fish species were exposed to several phenol concentrations (in the range between 5 and 50 mg L-1) and the mortality were recorded after 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Phenol was notably more toxic to I. punctatus than P. mesopotamicus and the 96-hour LC50 values were 15.08 and 32.56 mg L-1, respectively. Sublethal exposure to phenol in P. mesopotamicus resulted in significant higher hematocrit level (Ht), hemoglobin content (Hb) and red blood cell count (RBC) in comparison with control group. In I. punctatus, Ht, Hb and RBC remained constant after 96-hour sublethal exposure. However, after the recovery period of 7 days a significant increase of RBC followed by reduction in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were observed in I. punctatus. The sublethal responses to phenol revealed erythropoeisis in I. punctatus and respiratory distress in P. mesopotamicus. P. mesopotamicus presented excessive skin and gills mucus throughout the 96-hour LC50 tests. Acute toxicity tests and hematological responses after exposure to sublethal phenol concentration could be successfully used as a biomarker of stress in fish and may be applicable to investigate others toxic agents.