bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the factor structure of the General Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Nel Petrus , Boshoff Adré
Published: July 2015

Although the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale has often been used in clinical, personality, and organisational research, one of the major issues surrounding this instrument is that of an appropriate factor structure. In an endeavour to address the criticism levelled against this scale, this article draws on a study aimed at investigating the psychometric properties of the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale with respect to both its factor structure and estimates of reliability. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design with convenience sampling was used. A total of 295 aspiring chartered accountants who had sat one of their compulsory examinations completed the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale. Both the minimum average partial test and parallel analysis suggested that a unidimensional structure be investigated. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to compare two competing measurement models representing a three-dimensional factor structure and a unidimensional factor structure. Both models exhibited fairly similar levels of fit. To break this impasse, the Schmid–Leiman solution provided evidence that the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale consisted of a strong general factor which explained 76% of the variance. This study therefore concluded that general self-efficacy, as measured by the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale, may be treated as a unidimensional construct.
Humiliation and the Political Mobilization of Masculinity
Authors: Euben Roxanne L.
Published: July 2015

Islamist rhetoric about the humiliation of Islam and American rhetoric about national humiliation have been energized by disparate events in recent years, from the photographs of American soldiers in Mogadishu, Somalia to the invasion of Iraq, the “Innocence of Muslims” video to the attacks on 9/11. At the same time, there’s been an explosion of scholarship on humiliation as a driver of international conflict and political violence in general, and in relation to the bodies and minds of Muslims in particular. The link between humiliation and Muslims is thus a co-production between Islamists who continually invoke it and scholars from various disciplines and regions who regularly posit it. Yet there’s been very little analysis of humiliation in Islamist discourse; minimal effort to anatomize the ways in which this experience of humiliation is constructed to necessitate particular kinds of retaliatory action; and no attempt to theorize more broadly about patterns and discontinuities in how different rhetorics construct humiliation. This article takes up the following questions: What is the substantive content of humiliation in such rhetoric and analysis? Do these different rhetorics of humiliation articulate the same understanding of it, as an act and an experience? What does close analysis of Islamist discourse on humiliation in comparative perspective reveal about the political stakes and affective resonances articulated and energized by it in this particular moment in history? Finally, what do the answers to these questions say about the reach and limits of the dominant account of humiliation as the violated dignity or injured self-respect of a generic individual?
The effects of general interpersonal and bullying-specific teacher behaviors on pupils’ bullying behaviors at school
Authors: van der Zanden Petrie JAC , Denessen Eddie JPG , Scholte Ron HJ
Published: July 2015

Bullying is a problem in many schools around the world. It is seen as an unwanted phenomenon in education and in many contexts the reduction of bullying is a target of national and local education policy. In practice, the extent to which bullying occurs differs widely across classrooms. Part of these differences may be explained by teachers’ management of bullying. The goal of the present study was to combine two perspectives on teacher behavior to identify their impact on pupils’ bullying behavior at school, namely teachers’ bullying-specific and their general interpersonal behaviors. Data were collected by means of questionnaires from 33 upper-grade primary school teachers and their 784 pupils. Results of multilevel regression analyses showed that teachers’ bullying-specific and general interpersonal behaviors independently contributed to pupils’ bullying behavior. Lower levels of bullying were established when teachers were less likely to discipline the bully, and showed more interpersonal behaviors with high levels of control and closeness, and less interpersonal behaviors with low levels of control and closeness. These findings suggest that teachers’ bullying-specific and general interpersonal behaviors are two different pathways through which teachers can manage bullying. This underlines the need of taking teacher’s strengths into account in designing anti-bullying programs.
Using Conditional Percentages During Free-Operant Stimulus Preference Assessments to Predict the Effects of Preferred Items on Stereotypy
Authors: Frewing Tyla M. , Rapp John T. , Pastrana Sarah J.
Published: July 2015

To date, researchers have not identified an efficient methodology for selecting items that will compete with automatically reinforced behavior. In the present study, we identified high preference, high stereotypy (HP-HS), high preference, low stereotypy (HP-LS), low preference, high stereotypy (LP-HS), and low preference, low stereotypy (LP-LS) items based on response allocation to items and engagement in stereotypy during one to three, 30-min free-operant competing stimulus assessments (CSAs). The results showed that access to HP-LS items decreased stereotypy for all four participants; however, the results for other items were only predictive for one participant. Reanalysis of the CSA results revealed that the HP-LS item was typically identified by (a) the combined results of the first 10 min of the three 30-min assessments or (b) the results of one 30-min assessment. The clinical implications for the use of this method, as well as future directions for research, are briefly discussed.
Development and Validation of a High‐Fidelity Porcine Laryngeal Surgical Simulator
Authors: Dedmon Matthew M. , Paddle Paul M. , Phillips Jeananne , Kobayashi Leo , Franco Ramon A. , Song Phillip C.
Published: July 2015

Objective

Design and validate a laryngeal surgical simulator to teach phonomicrosurgical techniques.

Study Design

Device development and prospective validation.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Subjects and Methods

A novel laryngeal fixation device and custom laryngoscope were produced for use with ex vivo porcine larynx specimens. Vocal fold lesions such as nodules and keratotic lesions were simulated with silicone injections and epithelial markings. A prospective validation using postsimulation surveys, global rating scales, and procedure‐specific checklists was performed with a group of 15 medical students, otolaryngology residents, fellows, and attending laryngologists. Three procedures were performed: vocal fold augmentation, excision of a simulated vocal fold nodule, and excision of a simulated vocal fold keratosis.

Results

Participants overwhelmingly agreed that the simulator provided a realistic dissection experience that taught skills that would transfer to real operating scenarios. Expert performance was statistically superior to novice performance for excision of simulated vocal fold nodules and keratotic lesions, while no difference was observed for injection laryngoplasty.

Conclusion

The ability to learn and rehearse surgical procedures in a safe environment is invaluable, particularly for delicate and highly technical phonomicrosurgical operations. We have developed a high‐fidelity laryngeal surgical simulator complete with pathological lesions such as nodules and keratoses to teach these procedures. A prospective study demonstrated validity of our global rating scale and checklist assessments for vocal fold nodule and keratosis excision procedures, allowing them to be confidently incorporated into phonomicrosurgical training programs for surgeons of all levels of expertise.
Mitral regurgitation following pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis
Authors: He Cheng , Suryani Reny , Hiew Chin , Cheng Andrew , Zhang Bo
Published: July 2015

Pericardiectomy is the only definitive treatment option for patients with constrictive pericarditis. We present the case of a 67-year-old man who developed new moderate to severe mitral regurgitation following phrenic nerve-to-phrenic nerve pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis. The severity of the regurgitation was followed up by serial echocardiography which showed improvement 19 days later and complete resolution at 9 months after surgery. Potential mechanisms explaining the evolution of this mitral valve dysfunction in the setting of pericardiectomy are postulated.
Coaching Via Electronic Performance Feedback to Support Home Visitors’ Use of Caregiver Coaching Strategies
Authors: Krick Oborn Kellie M. , Johnson LeAnne D.
Published: July 2015

Recommended practices for Part C early childhood special education home visitors encourage use of caregiver coaching strategies to enhance learning opportunities within the natural routines of infants and toddlers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a multicomponent professional development intervention on home visitors’ use of specific caregiver coaching strategies and range of routines utilized during home-based intervention. The professional development intervention systematically tested the effects of two brief workshops followed by 6 weeks of coaching via performance feedback that was based on videotaped home visits and delivered via email. A multiple-baseline design across three home visitors and caregiver/child dyads was used to evaluate home visitors’ use of caregiver coaching strategies and natural routines. Findings provide support for the use of individualized coaching via performance feedback delivered in electronic format as a means to enhance home visitors’ use of caregiver coaching strategies during home visits.
Goals and Social Comparisons Promote Walking Behavior
Authors: Chapman Gretchen B. , Colby Helen , Convery Kimberly , Coups Elliot J.
Published: July 2015

The effectiveness of a pedometer intervention was affected by manipulating the goals given to participants and by providing social comparison feedback about how participants’ performance compared with others. In study 1 ( n = 148), university staff members received a low, medium, or high walking goal (10%, 50%, or 100% increase over baseline walking). Participants walked 1358 more steps per day (95% confidence interval [CI], 729, 1985), when receiving a high goal than when receiving a medium goal, but a medium goal did not increase walking relative to a low goal (554 more steps; 95% CI, –71,1179). In study 2 ( n = 64), participants received individual feedback only or individual plus social comparison feedback. Participants walked 1120 more steps per day (95% CI, 538, 1703) when receiving social comparison feedback than when receiving only individual feedback. Goals and the performance of others act as reference points and influence the effect that pedometer feedback has on walking behavior, illustrating the applicability of the principles of behavioral economics and social psychology to the design of health behavior interventions.
Personal Values and Moral Disengagement Promote Aggressive and Rule-Breaking Behaviours in Adolescents With Disruptive Behaviour Disorders
Authors: Paciello Marinella , Muratori Pietro , Ruglioni Laura , Milone Annarita , Buonanno Carlo , Capo Rosario , Lochman John E. , Barcaccia Barbara
Published: July 2015

The pilot study presented in this article investigated the role of moral-cognitive features in understanding aggressive and rule-breaking behaviours in adolescents with Disruptive Behaviour Disorder (DBD). We collected two samples. The community sample was composed of 85 adolescents, whereas the DBD sample was composed of 30 adolescents. Compared with a community sample, adolescents with DBD are more inclined to use moral disengagement (MD) to legitimize their aggressive and rule-breaking behaviours. Moreover, regression models showed that self-enhancement values and MD foster externalizing behaviours taking into account both gender and the group they belonged to, that is, either clinical or community sample. Instead, self-transcendence values could prevent externalizing problems by inhibiting MD. Implications of these findings for assessment and therapeutic interventions are discussed.
Social Relationships and Group Dynamics Inside a Community Correction Facility for Women
Authors: Cantora Andrea , Mellow Jeff , Schlager Melinda D.
Published: July 2015

This article presents research on women’s perceptions and experiences residing in a female community correction facility. Qualitative interview data and field observations are used to examine resident relationships, perceptions of on-site group treatment, and benefits of receiving off-site treatment. Findings from this study indicate an overwhelming feeling of tension and lack of trust among residents, resulting in most women withdrawing from social interactions. Relationship dynamics also played a role in women’s participation during on-site group treatment and desiring off-site treatment. This study supports the need to create, and sustain, therapeutic environments within community correction settings for women.
Exploring a resource dependency perspective as an organizational strategy for building resource capacity
Authors: Powell Kimberly K , Rey Melanie Powell
Published: July 2015

Declining state revenue, increased expenditures and rising costs at public universities are critical issues that are further heightened by the current economic environment. In an effort to address the challenges associated with reduced revenue and rising costs, this theoretical paper will explore how public institutions can leverage the resource dependency theory framework for strategy formulation and increased resource capacity. The organization of the paper begins with an introduction that sets forth the topic parameters and rationale of the paper. This is followed by a literature review that provides an overview of pertinent fiscal issues and strategies that were designed to mitigate these issues in public higher education. The authors then introduce the resource dependency theory and its linkage to public higher education based upon an understanding of the institution’s interdependence with the external environment. Based upon the resource dependency theory, the authors discuss strategies that can garner greater resources and serve as a guide for university administrators and leaders during strategic planning efforts.
Revenue Diversification in Housing Nonprofits
Authors: Shea Jennifer , Wang Janey Qian
Published: July 2015

Scholars often draw on resource dependence theory and institutional theory to explain nonprofit behavior in light of resource constraints, but few studies include empirical indicators of environmental constraints. This study examines the degree to which variables in the state-level funding environment promote (or deter) revenue diversification for housing nonprofits. It uses a hierarchical linear model (HLM) to capture constraint at two levels: the funding environment at the state level and organizational-level factors. Analyzing data from 990 housing nonprofits in 26 states and public funding environment variables for each of those states from 2008 to 2010, we find that state funding has a negative impact on revenue diversification for housing nonprofits. By including empirical indicators of the level of constraint for specific funding sources, we add to the body of literature that questions normative nonprofit financial management and provide evidence nonprofit leaders can use to inform their resource development strategies.
Effect of air dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment on the adhesion property of sanded polyphenylene sulfide
Authors: Hong Rui , Xu Dongxia , Wang Xiaojun , Long Shengru , Zhang Gang , Yang Jie
Published: July 2015

Air dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma was employed to treat the sanded polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) surface. The plasma-treated PPS samples were bonded with epoxy adhesive, and the adhesion strength was measured by the single lap-joint specimen test. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angle analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were applied to investigate the effect of the plasma treatment on the PPS surface property. A slight etching trace was detected after the plasma treatment according to the SEM images. XPS and water contact angle analysis indicated that the plasma treatment introduced sulfide oxides (S=O and O=S=O) onto the PPS surface leading to a higher surface energy. A steady improvement of bonding shear strength was achieved with the increase of plasma treatment time or discharge power density, which was consistent with the failure mode study. According to the above analysis, the air DBD plasma treatment could effectively improve the adhesion property of PPS.
8000 years of environmental evolution of barrier–lagoon systems emplaced in coastal embayments (NW Iberia)
Authors: González-Villanueva Rita , Pérez-Arlucea Marta , Costas Susana , Bao Roberto , Otero Xose L , Goble Ronald
Published: July 2015

The rocky and indented coast of NW Iberia is characterized by the presence of highly valuable and vulnerable, small and shallow barrier–lagoon systems structurally controlled. The case study was selected to analyse barrier–lagoon evolution based on detailed sedimentary architecture, chronology, geochemical and biological proxies. The main objective is to test the hypothesis of structural control and the significance at regional scale of any high-energy event recorded. This work is also aimed at identifying general patterns and conceptualizing the formation and evolution of this type of coastal systems. The results allowed us to establish a conceptual model of Holocene evolution that applies to rock-bounded barrier–lagoon systems. The initial stage (early Holocene) is characterized by freshwater peat sedimentation and ended by marine flooding. The timing of the marine flooding depends on the relation between the elevation of the basin and the relative mean sea-level position; the lower the topography, the earlier the marine inundation. Thus, the age of basin inundation ranged from 8 to 4 ka BP supporting significant structural differences. Once marine inundation occurred, all systems followed similar evolutionary patterns characterized by a phase of landward barrier migration and aeolian sedimentation towards the back-barrier (i.e. retrogradation) that extended circa 3.5 ka BP. The later phases of evolution are characterized by a general trend to the stabilization of the barriers and the infilling of the lagoons. This stabilization may be temporally interrupted by episodes of enhanced storminess or sediment scarcity. In this regard, washover deposits identified within the sedimentary architecture of the case study explored here suggest pervasive high-energy events coeval with some of the cooling events identified in the North Atlantic during the mid- to late Holocene.
Visualizing psychiatric formulation
Authors: Alyami Hussain , Sundram Frederick , Hill Andrew G , Alyami Mohsen , Cheung Gary
Published: July 2015

Objective:

Despite the importance of psychiatric formulation, it remains one of the most challenging tasks for medical students and trainees. To facilitate teaching and learning this essential skill, we propose a visual metaphor in order to conceptualise psychiatric formulation.

Conclusions:

It is expected that this paper will assist educators and learners to better conceptualise psychiatric formulation through activating prior knowledge through this visual metaphor. Future educational research will determine the effectiveness of this proposed learning tool.
Practice Evaluation Strategies Among Clinical Social Workers
Authors: Davis Thomas D. , Dennis Cory B. , Culbertson Susan E.
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Practice evaluation strategies range in style from the formal-analytic tools of single-subject designs, rapid assessment instruments, algorithmic steps in evidence-based practice, and computer software applications, to the informal-interactive tools of clinical supervision, consultation with colleagues, use of client feedback, and clinical experience. The purpose of this study was to provide practice researchers in social work with a more complete understanding of how and why social workers evaluate their practice the way they do.

Methods:

Questions about practice evaluation strategies were posed to 12 licensed clinical social workers in a 3-hour focus group.

Findings:

Drawing on advances in the cognitive and social neurosciences, the study identified among clinical social workers an informal-interactive tool preference that displays itself as a cognitively necessary, sufficient, and stand-alone preference that required neither the supplementation nor balance of formal-analytic tools.

Conclusions:

New directions in social work practice research are required and delineated.
Violence as an Under-Recognized Barrier to Women’s Realization of Their Right to Adequate Food and Nutrition
Authors: Bellows Anne C. , Lemke Stefanie , Jenderedjian Anna , Scherbaum Veronika
Published: July 2015

This article addresses under-acknowledged barriers of structural violence and discrimination that interfere with women’s capacity to realize their human rights generally, and their right to adequate food and nutrition in particular. Case studies from Georgia and South Africa illustrate the need for a human rights–based approach to food and nutrition security that prioritizes non-discrimination, public participation, and self-determination. These principles are frustrated by different types of structural violence that, if not seriously addressed, pose multiple barriers to women’s economic, public, and social engagement.
Pushing Constitutional Limits in the U.S. States: Legislative Professionalism and Judicial Review of State Laws by the U.S. Supreme Court
Authors: Miller Susan M. , Ringsmuth Eve M. , Little Joshua M.
Published: July 2015

When the U.S. Supreme Court exercises its power of judicial review over state laws, its decisions, like the legislation it considers, frequently speak to major policy debates. Despite the Court's routine involvement with state statutes, theoretical explanations of judicial review generally do not distinguish between state laws and federal laws. The characteristics of state legislatures lead legislators in different states to have distinct perspectives and incentives, and ultimately affect the types of laws enacted in different states. We suggest that because the level of professionalism of state legislatures affects the types of laws pursued by different states, it may also affect the likelihood that a state has a law struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. We find support for this expectation. Specifically, legislative professionalism is associated with an increased likelihood that a state has a law invalidated by the Court. This new evidence indicates that it is important to consider the legislative context in which state laws originate when examining the Court's review of state laws.
Arthroscopic management of the painful total elbow arthroplasty
Authors: Phadnis Joideep , Bain Gregory I
Published: July 2015

Background

Failure of total elbow arthroplasty is more common than after other major joint arthroplasties and is often a result of aseptic loosening, peri-prosthetic infection, fracture and instability. Infection can be a devastating complication, yet there are no established guidelines for the pre-operative diagnosis of total elbow peri-prosthetic infection. This is because pre-operative clinical, radiographic and biochemical tests are often unreliable.

Methods

Using three case examples, a standardized protocol for the clinical and arthroscopic assessment of the painful total elbow arthroplasty is described. This is used to provide a mechanical and microbiological diagnosis of the patient’s pain.

Results

There have been no complications resulting from the use of this technique in the three patients described, nor in any other patient to date.

Conclusions

The staged protocol described in the present study, utilizing arthroscopic assessment, has refined the approach to the painful total elbow arthroplasty because it directly influences the definitive surgical management of the patient. It is recommended that other surgeons follow the principles outlined in the present study when faced with this challenging problem.
Methods to Obtain a Representative Sample of Ryan White-Funded Patients for a Needs Assessment in Los Angeles County: Results from a Replicable Approach
Authors: Dierst-Davies Rhodri , Wohl Amy Rock , Pinney Glenda , Johnson Christopher H. , Vincent-Jones Craig , Pérez Mario J.
Published: July 2015

The Health Resources and Services Administration requires that jurisdictions receiving Ryan White (RW) funding justify need, set priorities, and provide allocations using evidence-based methods. Methods and results from the 2011 Los Angeles Coordinated HIV/AIDS Needs Assessment–Care (LACHNA-Care) study are presented. Individual-level weights were applied to expand the sample from 400 to 18 912 persons, consistent with the 19 915 clients in the system. Awareness, need, and utilization for medical outpatient care were high (>90%). Other services (eg, child care) had limited awareness (21%). Majority of participants reported at least 1 service gap (81%). Lack of insurance (risk ratio [RR] = 3.0, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5-6.2), substance use (RR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.3-6.4), and past lapses in medical care (RR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.3-5.9) were associated with gaps. Within clusters, past incarceration was associated with gaps for housing (RR = 13.5, 95% CI: 3.5-52.1), transportation (RR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.2-8.4), and case management (RR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.3-12.2). Applied methods resulted in representative data instrumental to RW program planning efforts.
Effect of post-GBE strain on weld decay resistance of grain boundary engineered 304 austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Tokita S. , Ikeshoji M. , Yamada G. , Kurihara K. , Kokawa H. , Sato Y. S. , Fujii H. T.
Published: July 2015

Weld decay, a severe type of intergranular corrosion in the heat affected zone (HAZ), is a common and serious problem during welding of austenitic stainless steels. Grain boundary engineering (GBE) has been attracting attention as an effective method to prevent weld decay. Remarkably high resistance to weld decay has been reported for grain boundary engineered (GBEed) austenitic stainless steels. In practical applications, however, deformation and welding after the GBE process during manufacturing may alter the grain boundary character distribution and the resistance to weld decay. This study examined the effect of strain plus welding on the intergranular corrosion resistance in the weld HAZ of GBEed 304 austenitic stainless steel. The results show that the GBEed steel retained a much higher corrosion resistance than as received and non-GBEed steel during the same strain plus welding process, even though for both steels the corrosion resistance exhibited a gradual decrease with increasing strain.
MicroRNA-17-92 controls T-cell responses in graft-versus-host disease and leukemia relapse in mice
Authors: Wu Yongxia , Heinrichs Jessica , Bastian David , Fu Jianing , Nguyen Hung , Schutt Steven , Liu Yuejun , Jin Junfei , Liu Chen , Li Qi-Jing , Xia Changqing , Yu Xue-Zhong
Published: July 2015

Key Points

miR-17-92 is required for T cells to mediate GVHD but not the GVL effect. Targeting miR-17-92 with antagomirs efficiently alleviates GVHD.
Platelet function tests, independent of platelet count, are associated with bleeding severity in ITP
Authors: Frelinger Andrew L. , Grace Rachael F. , Gerrits Anja J. , Berny-Lang Michelle A. , Brown Travis , Carmichael Sabrina L. , Neufeld Ellis J. , Michelson Alan D.
Published: July 2015

Key Points

ITP patients differ in their tendency to bleed despite similarly low platelet counts, thereby confounding treatment decisions. Platelet function tests, independent of platelet count, are associated with bleeding severity in ITP patients.
Nuclear basic fibroblast growth factor regulates triple-negative breast cancer chemo-resistance
Authors: Li Shenduo , Payne Sturgis , Wang Fang , Claus Peter , Su Zuowei , Groth Jeffrey , Geradts Joseph , de Ridder Gustaaf , Alvarez Rebeca , Marcom Paul Kelly , Pizzo Salvatore V. , Bachelder Robin E.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Chemotherapy remains the only available treatment for triple-negative (TN) breast cancer, and most patients exhibit an incomplete pathologic response. Half of patients exhibiting an incomplete pathologic response die within five years of treatment due to chemo-resistant, recurrent tumor growth. Defining molecules responsible for TN breast cancer chemo-resistance is crucial for developing effective combination therapies blocking tumor recurrence. Historically, chemo-resistance studies have relied on long-term chemotherapy selection models that drive genetic mutations conferring cell survival. Other models suggest that tumors are heterogeneous, being composed of both chemo-sensitive and chemo-resistant tumor cell populations. We previously described a short-term chemotherapy treatment model that enriches for chemo-residual TN tumor cells. In the current work, we use this enrichment strategy to identify a novel determinant of TN breast cancer chemotherapy resistance [a nuclear isoform of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)].

Methods

Studies are conducted using our in vitro model of chemotherapy resistance. Short-term chemotherapy treatment enriches for a chemo-residual TN subpopulation that over time resumes proliferation. By western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction, we show that this chemotherapy-enriched tumor cell subpopulation expresses nuclear bFGF. The importance of bFGF for survival of these chemo-residual cells is interrogated using short hairpin knockdown strategies. DNA repair capability is assessed by comet assay. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is used to determine nuclear bFGF expression in TN breast cancer cases pre- and post- neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

TN tumor cells surviving short-term chemotherapy treatment express increased nuclear bFGF. bFGF knockdown reduces the number of chemo-residual TN tumor cells. Adding back a nuclear bFGF construct to bFGF knockdown cells restores their chemo-resistance. Nuclear bFGF-mediated chemo-resistance is associated with increased DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) expression and accelerated DNA repair. In fifty-six percent of matched TN breast cancer cases, percent nuclear bFGF-positive tumor cells either increases or remains the same post- neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment (compared to pre-treatment). These data indicate that in a subset of TN breast cancers, chemotherapy enriches for nuclear bFGF-expressing tumor cells.

Conclusion

These studies identify nuclear bFGF as a protein in a subset of TN breast cancers that likely contributes to drug resistance following standard chemotherapy treatment.
Governability assessment of the Galapagos Marine Reserve
Authors: Barragán Paladines María José , Chuenpagdee Ratana
Published: July 2015

The Galapagos Marine Reserve is one of the most recognized marine protected areas in the world, due mainly to its unique natural features. Little is known, however, about its social counterpart. This research aims to explore the Galapagos Marine Reserve governance by following the governability assessment framework, which is based on the interactive governance perspective. We claim that improved governance and incresed governability of this marine protected area, ruled under a co-management mode of governance, cannot be achieved without comprehensive understanding about the Galapagos Marine Reserve’s governing system, the systems that are being governed, and their interactions. Semi-structured interviews with a range of stakeholders were conducted as part of the study to illuminate the characteristics of the systems and how they interact. The analysis reveals a high degree of variation between the formal and operative structures of the systems, due largely to the complexity, dynamics, and diversity of the systems, and the multiple scales at which they operate. Further, our findings highlight that governing decisions, and thus the overall governance performance, are influenced by certain quality of the systems (e.g., inefficiency, vulnerability, misrepresentation). Along with the understanding of potential complementarity with other governance modes (e.g., hierarchical), the research identifies that the governability of the Galapagos Marine Reserve can be improved by making governance processes more transparent and by better consideration of the social component in the governing system. In that way, the marine reserve sustainability would also be enhanced.
Flipped-Class Pedagogy Enhances Student Metacognition and Collaborative-Learning Strategies in Higher Education But Effect Does Not Persist
Authors: van Vliet E. A. , Winnips J. C. , Brouwer N.
Published: July 2015

In flipped-class pedagogy, students prepare themselves at home before lectures, often by watching short video clips of the course contents. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of flipped classes on motivation and learning strategies in higher education using a controlled, pre- and posttest approach. The same students were followed in a traditional course and in a course in which flipped classes were substituted for part of the traditional lectures. On the basis of the validated Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), we found that flipped-class pedagogy enhanced the MSLQ components critical thinking, task value, and peer learning. However, the effects of flipped classes were not long-lasting. We therefore propose repeated use of flipped classes in a curriculum to make effects on metacognition and collaborative-learning strategies sustainable.
Authentic Research Experience and “Big Data” Analysis in the Classroom: Maize Response to Abiotic Stress
Authors: Makarevitch Irina , Frechette Cameo , Wiatros Natalia
Published: July 2015

Integration of inquiry-based approaches into curriculum is transforming the way science is taught and studied in undergraduate classrooms. Incorporating quantitative reasoning and mathematical skills into authentic biology undergraduate research projects has been shown to benefit students in developing various skills necessary for future scientists and to attract students to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines. While large-scale data analysis became an essential part of modern biological research, students have few opportunities to engage in analysis of large biological data sets. RNA-seq analysis, a tool that allows precise measurement of the level of gene expression for all genes in a genome, revolutionized molecular biology and provides ample opportunities for engaging students in authentic research. We developed, implemented, and assessed a series of authentic research laboratory exercises incorporating a large data RNA-seq analysis into an introductory undergraduate classroom. Our laboratory series is focused on analyzing gene expression changes in response to abiotic stress in maize seedlings; however, it could be easily adapted to the analysis of any other biological system with available RNA-seq data. Objective and subjective assessment of student learning demonstrated gains in understanding important biological concepts and in skills related to the process of science.
Reservoir prediction in a development area with a high-density well pattern using seismic sedimentology: An example from the BB2 block, Changyuan LMD oil field, Songliao Basin, China
Authors: Cheng Shunguo , Jiang Yan , Li Jie , Li Cao , Wang Yanhui , Xu Liheng
Published: July 2015

The Daqing Changyuan oil field is primarily composed of large, fluvial-deltaic thin sandstones and shales with a high degree of heterogeneity. Over the past 50 years of development, the geologic study of this reservoir has relied on a large amount of well-log data in the field. However, a detailed reservoir description based only on wireline-log data cannot meet the requirements of oil field development. There is still some uncertainty about the sand boundary and geometry, due to reliance only on data from fields with an average density of approximately [Formula: see text]. Such uncertainty may severely affect the potential for producing the remaining oil in these mature oil fields. In this study, seismic-sedimentology guided reservoir prediction is examined in an area of dense wells in BB2 block in the Changyuan LMD oil field. The spatial distribution of channel-sand bodies was identified and recognized by facies analysis, sandstone thickness mapping, and seismic stratal slicing of reservoir units, using the principles and methods of seismic sedimentology. The results showed that the seismic amplitude can be correlated to log lithologies. The interpretation of sandstone can be improved by 90°-phase seismic data, and the distribution of channel sand with a thickness greater than 5 m can be directly predicted. The identification and prediction of the boundaries of channel-sand bodies are thus improved. The results have proved useful in new infill drilling and reperforations.
The anti-fibrotic effect of TGFβ/ALK5 inhibition in experimental pulmonary fibrosis is attenuated in the presence of concurrent γherpesvirus infection
Authors: Smoktunowicz Natalia , Alexander Robert E. , Franklin Linda , Williams Andrew E. , Holman Beverley , Mercer Paul F. , Jarai Gabor , Scotton Chris J. , Chambers Rachel C.
Published: July 2015

TGFβ/ALK5 pro-fibrotic signalling and herpesvirus infections have been implicated in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of pulmonary fibrosis. In this study we addressed the role of TGFβ/ALK5 signalling during the progression of fibrosis in a two-hit model of MHV-68 infection on the background of pre-existing bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Assessment of total lung collagen levels in combination with ex vivo micro-computed tomography (µCT) analysis of whole lungs, demonstrated that MHV-68 infection did not enhance lung collagen deposition in this two-hit model but led to a persistent and exacerbated inflammatory response. Moreover, µCT reconstruction and analysis of the two-hit model revealed distinguishing features of diffuse ground-glass opacities and consolidation superimposed on pre-existing fibrosis which are reminiscent of those observed in acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE IPF). Virally-infected murine fibrotic lungs further displayed evidence of extensive inflammatory cell infiltration and increased levels of CCL2, TNFα, IL-1β and IL-10. Blockade of TGFβ/ALK5 signalling attenuated lung collagen accumulation in bleomycin-alone injured mice, but this anti-fibrotic effect was reduced in the presence of concomitant viral infection. In contrast, inhibition of TGFβ/ALK5 signalling in virally-infected fibrotic lungs was associated with reduced inflammatory cell aggregates and increased levels of the antiviral cytokine, IFNγ. These data reveal novel intricacies for the TGFβ/ALK5 signalling axis in experimental lung fibrosis with different outcomes in response to ALK5 inhibition depending on the presence of viral infection. These findings raise important considerations for the targeting of TGFβ signalling responses in the context of pulmonary fibrosis.
Food restriction negatively affects multiple levels of the reproductive axis in male house finches, Haemorhous mexicanus
Authors: Valle Shelley , Carpentier Elodie , Vu Bethany , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi , Deviche Pierre
Published: July 2015

Nutrition influences reproductive functions across vertebrates, but the effects of food availability on the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in wild birds and the mechanisms mediating these effects remain unclear. We investigated the influence of chronic food restriction on the HPG axis of photostimulated House Finches, Haemorhous mexicanus. Food-restricted birds had underdeveloped testes with smaller seminiferous tubules than ad libitum-fed birds. Baseline plasma testosterone (T) increased in response to photostimulation in ad libitum-fed but not in food-restricted birds. Food availability did not, however, affect the plasma T increase resulting from a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or a luteinizing hormone (LH) challenge. The number of hypothalamic GnRH-I immunoreactive (ir) but not proGnRH-ir perikarya was higher in food-restricted than ad libitum-fed finches, suggesting inhibited secretion of GnRH. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH)-ir and neuropeptide Y (NPY)-ir were not affected by food availability. Plasma corticosterone (CORT) was also not affected by food availability, indicating that the observed HPG axis inhibition did not result from increased activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This study is among the first to examine multilevel functional changes in the HPG axis in response to food restriction in a wild bird. The results indicate that food availability affects both hypothalamic and gonadal function, but further investigations are needed to clarify the mechanisms by which nutritional signals mediate these effects.
Black TiO2 Nanoparticles by a Microwave-induced Plasma over Titanium Complex Aqueous Solution
Authors: Ishida Yohei , Doshin Wataru , Tsukamoto Hiroki , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: July 2015

We herein report a novel synthesis of black TiO2 nanoparticles by using a microwave-induced plasma over Ti complex aqueous solution. The resultant TiO2 nanoparticles showed very strong reflectance over the whole visible light region. Detailed HAADF-STEM analysis of the obtained particles revealed that this plasma method enables doping of W ions inside the TiO2 crystal structure.
Undergraduate and foundation training in trauma and orthopaedics: junior doctors have their say
Authors: Ghani Yaser , Thakrar Raj R , Palmer Jon , Konan Sujith , Donaldson James , Olivier Andre , Gikas Panos , Briggs Tim
Published: July 2015

Undergraduate education in musculoskeletal health is currently insufficient in most medical schools worldwide, in both basic sciences and clinical training. A national survey was carried out to obtain views of current doctors from various specialties about undergraduate and foundation training in trauma and orthopaedics.
From medical doctor to medical director: leadership style matters
Authors: Williams Geraint , Wood Edward V , Ibram Ferda
Published: July 2015

Leadership is a skill to be developed by all doctors from the foundation trainee to the director of the board. This article explores the impact of leadership style on performance and considers techniques to develop doctors' leadership skills and personal effectiveness.
Effects of computer assisted learning on students achievements in Turkey : A meta-analysis
Authors: Dinçer Serkan
Published: July 2015

This study investigates the effect of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) on student academic success by evaluating the results of the studies conducted in the last 10 years using the meta-analysis method. For this purpose, answers are sought for three questions: How did CAL affect the academic success of students compared to the traditional method in studies conducted in Turkey? Which CAL methods have been used to increase academic achievement? What are the similarities and differences between studies examining the effects of CAL in Turkey and other countries? To answer these three research questions, related articles were searched in ERIC (2013), Google Scholar (2013) and Ulakbim (2013) databases. Hedges and Olkin's (1985) and Thalheimer and Cook's (2002) coefficient of influence calculation formulas were used in the analysis of the study. As a result of the necessary analyzes, it was found that CAL was quite successful compared to the traditional method in studies conducted in Turkey; In addition, it has been concluded that the calculated effect coefficients are quite high compared to other countries.
The ‘home-care principle’ in everyday making of eldercare policy in rural Sweden
Authors: Nyhlen Sara , Giritli-Nygren Katarina
Published: July 2015

Translating the urban based national policy of eldercare to a rural context is seen as a key activity for rural policy actors since the fact that rural municipalities face different issues to urban areas is not reflected in the operational plans for eldercare. The aim of this article is to highlight the process by which urban based policies are enacted in rural municipalities by analysing how the home-care principle in eldercare policies is framed and implemented by different actors at various administrative levels in three rural municipalities. It becomes evident how the institutional position is crucial in the enactment process.
Development of LAMP-HRM for sensitive and specific detection of Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Nowicki Marcin , Nowakowska Marzena , Wrzesińska Małgorzata , Kozik Elżbieta
Published: July 2015

We developed the LAMP-HRM assay for detection of P. infestans in a RealTime PCR machine. Specific pathogen detection was achieved in the 18th minute of the reaction, which, in comparison with other diagnostic methods, shortens the analysis time. For instance, first late blight symptoms after inoculation of tomato plants with P. infestans are manifested only 4-5 dpi. We applied the downstream HRM analyses to estimate the variablility of 96 pathogen isolates, collected from symptomatic tomatoes all over Poland, in the years 2009-2012.
SOR-like methods for solving the Sylvester equation
Authors: Kierzkowski Jakub
Published: July 2015

We present the SOR-like methods and highlight some of their known properties. We give the SOR-like method as proposed by Z. Wo źnicki and propose two similar methods based upon it. All three are stationary iterative methods for solving the Sylvester equation (AX-XB=C).
We form two sufficient conditions under which one of those methods will converge.
In addition, we present a modification method, based on the following fact: if X is a solution of AX-XB=C, it is also a solution of (A-Im)X-X(B-In)=C.
We also present numerical experiments to illustrate the theoretical results and some properties of the methods.
Inexact Kleinman-Newton-ADI Method with Line Search to Solve Large-Scale Algebraic Riccati Equations
Authors: Weichelt Heiko K. , Heinkenschloss Matthias , Saak Jens , Benner Peter
Published: July 2015

This poster shows recent improvements of the inexact Kleinman-Newton method for solving algebraic Riccati equations by incorporating a line search and by systematically integrating the low-rank structure resulting from ADI methods for the approximate solution of the Lyapunov equation that needs to be solved to compute the Kleinman-Newton step. A convergence result is pointed out that tailors the convergence proof for general inexact Newton methods to the structure of Riccati equations and avoids positive semi-definiteness assumptions on the difference between certain matrices and the Lyapunov equation residual, which in general do not hold for low-rank approaches. On a test example, the improved inexact Kleinman-Newton method demonstrates its advantages.