bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reverting to a hidden interactional order: Epistemics, informationism, and conversation analysis
Authors: Lynch Michael , Wong Jean
Published: July 2016

This article critically examines the relations between epistemics in conversation analysis (CA) and linguistic and cognitivist conceptions of communicative interaction that emphasize information and information transfer. The epistemic program (EP) adheres to the focus on recorded instances of talk-in-interaction that is characteristic of CA, explicitly identifies its theoretical origins with ethnomethodology, and points to implications of its research for the social distribution of knowledge. However, despite such affiliations with CA and ethnomethodology, the EP is cognitivist in the way it emphasizes information exchange as an underlying, extrasituational ‘driver’ in social interaction. To document how the EP draws upon cognitivist conceptions of information and knowledge, we review examples from the corpus of transcripts analyzed in key publications on epistemics. Our re-analysis casts doubt upon the way EP analysis invokes an underlying order that supposedly drives the evident sequential organization of those transcripts.
Jet and jet–wing noise modelling based on the CABARET MILES flow solver and the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings method
Authors: Semiletov Vasily A , Yakovlev Petr G , Karabasov Sergey A , Faranosov Georgy A , Kopiev Victor F
Published: July 2016

A co-axial subsonic unheated jet with and without a swept lifting wing at free-stream conditions from a recent jet–wing TsAGI experiment is considered. For computational modelling, Monotonically Integrated Large Eddy Simulations (MILES) are conducted based on the CABARET scheme which is implemented in a modern parallel unstructured-grid compressible Navier–Stokes computational code. The computational domain of the installed configuration includes a part of the nozzle and a wing section with round flow-fences present in the experiment to preclude the downwash effects. For the isolated jet, the same size of the computational domain is applied and two grid resolutions are considered to investigate the sensitivity of the current far-field noise predictions to the computational grid. The meanflow velocity profiles predicted downstream of the nozzle are compared with the flow data available. For far-field acoustic predictions, the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) integral method is used. The Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings solutions correspond to a large closed permeable control surface with multiple closing disks at the outlet side set-up in accordance with the best practice to avoid pseudo sound in the acoustic modelling. The comparison of the acoustic predictions with the far-field spectra measured in the experiment for 30° and 90° observer angles to the jet flow are presented and discussed. It is shown that the current modelling robustly captures the same relative trends of the spectra behavior as observed in the experiment: while the presence of the wing does not lead to any significant change of sound spectrum in comparison with the isolated jet for 30°, there is a [Formula: see text] sound amplification due to the jet–wing interaction at 90° angle to the jet.
γ−Carboxyethyl hydroxychroman, a metabolite of γ−tocopherol, preserves nitric oxide bioavailability in endothelial cells challenged with high glucose
Authors: Li Youyou , Bharath Leena P , Qian Ying , Ruan Ting , Anandh Babu Pon Velayutham , Bruno Richard S , Symons J David , Jalili Thunder
Published: July 2016

Endothelial dysfunction occurs when there are imbalances between factors that regulate the synthesis and degradation of nitric oxide (NO•), and has been reported in patients with hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. We reported that supplementation with γ-tocopherol (γ-T) in humans limits impairments in endothelial function otherwise induced by postprandial hyperglycemia. Given the rapid metabolism of γ-T into γ-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman (γ-CEHC), we hypothesized that the vasoprotective activities of γ-T could be attributed to its metabolite γ-CEHC. To test this, human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) treated with 0 (vehicle control) or 3 µM γ-CEHC for 24 h prior to incubation with normal (5 mM) or high (25 mM) glucose for 48 h. High-glucose increased levels of uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) as evidenced by reduced ( p < 0.05) eNOS dimer:monomer. High glucose also prevented insulin-stimulated increases in p-AktSer473: total Akt, p-eNOSSer1177: total eNOS, and NO• production. These adverse changes were accompanied by increased ( p < 0.05) reactive oxygen species and mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators (VCAM-1, E-selectin, IL-8). However, each deleterious response evoked by high glucose was prevented when HAECs were incubated with γ-CEHC prior to the high glucose challenge. Taken together, our data support the hypothesis that vascular protection provided by γ-T in vivo may be elicited through the bioactivity of its metabolite, γ-CEHC. Furthermore, it is possible that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of γ-CEHC may mediate this protective activity.
Novel oral anticoagulant management issues for the stroke clinician
Authors: Wassef Andrew , Butcher Ken
Published: July 2016

Background

Four nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are approved for stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

Aims

In this review, we assemble available evidence for the best management of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients in the context of NOAC use.

Summary of review

NOACs provide predictable anticoagulation with fixed dosages. The direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran and direct factor Xa inhibitors apixaban, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban are all noninferior to warfarin for the prevention of ischemic stroke and systemic embolism and are associated with reduced incidence of intracranial hemorrhage. While these agents offer treatment options for NVAF patients, they also present challenges specific to the clinician managing cerebrovascular disease patients.

Conclusions

We summarize available evidence and current approaches to the initiation, dosing, monitoring and potential reversal of NOACs in stroke patients.
Kirschner wire pin site infection in hand and wrist fractures: incidence rate and risk factors
Authors: van Leeuwen W. F. , van Hoorn B. T. J. A. , Chen N. , Ring D.
Published: July 2016

Kirschner wires are widely used for skeletal fixation of unstable fractures, but the pin tracks create a potential pathway through the skin and into the bone for bacteria to cause an infection. We tested the null hypothesis that there are no demographic, patient-related, injury, or treatment variables independently associated with the occurrence of pin site infection after percutaneous fixation of hand and wrist fractures using Kirschner wires. A retrospective review of 1213 patients with one or more fractures of the hand and wrist treated with percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation identified 85 patients (7%) who had additional treatment with oral antibiotics, early pin removal, or reoperation related to a pin site infection. We found no factors were independently associated with higher or lower risks of pin site infection in multivariable logistic regression analysis. Pin site infections – most benign – occur in a notable number of patients and we could not identify any modifiable risk factors.

Level of Evidence: III
Fusing Organizational Theory, Policy, and Leadership: A Depiction of Policy Learning Activities in a Principal Preparation Program
Authors: Woulfin Sarah L.
Published: July 2016

This pedagogy–practice article portrays three instructional activities that were implemented with aspiring leaders and refined over four rounds of teaching the course in a northeastern state’s principal preparation program (PPP). After describing each activity, I share lessons learned regarding the pedagogy of principal preparation. I make the case that embedding organizational theory into PPP coursework can play a role in developing the higher order skills of aspiring leaders.
Nostalgia and Self-Enhancement
Authors: Luo Yu L. L. , Liu Yunzhi , Cai Huajian , Wildschut Tim , Sedikides Constantine
Published: July 2016

We addressed phenotypic and genetic research questions regarding nostalgia and self-enhancement. At the phenotypic level (178 university students; Study 1), we found that nostalgia was moderately associated with self-enhancement. At the genotypic level (232 twin pairs; Study 2), we found that nostalgia, self-enhancement, and their relation were largely heritable. Our findings shed light on two heavily investigated traits and open up exciting research directions.
Symptom Levels in Care-Seeking Bangladeshi and Nepalese Adults With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Love Richard Reed , Ferdousy Tahmina , Paudel Bishnu D. , Nahar Shamsun , Dowla Rumana , Adibuzzaman Mohammad , Ahsan Golam Mushih Tanimul , Uddin Miftah , Salim Reza , Ahamed Sheikh Iqbal
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Three-fourths of patients with advanced cancer are reported to suffer from pain. A primary barrier to provision of adequate symptom treatment is failure to appreciate the intensity of the symptoms patients are experiencing. Because data on Bangladeshi and Nepalese patients’ perceptions of their symptomatic status are limited, we sought such information using a cell phone questionnaire.

Methods

At tertiary care centers in Dhaka and Kathmandu, we recruited 640 and 383 adult patients, respectively, with incurable malignancy presenting for outpatient visits and instructed them for that single visit on one-time completion of a cell phone platform 15-item survey of questions about common cancer-associated symptoms and their magnitudes using Likert scales of 0 to 10. The questions were taken from the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the Brief Pain Inventory instruments.

Results

All but two Bangladeshi patients recruited agreed to study participation. Two-thirds of Bangladeshi patients reported usual pain levels ≥ 5, and 50% of Nepalese patients reported usual pain levels ≥ 4 (population differences significant at P < .001).

Conclusion

Bangladeshi and Nepalese adults with advanced cancer are comfortable with cell phone questionnaires about their symptoms and report high levels of pain. Greater attention to the suffering of these patients is warranted.
Bevacizumab in Advanced Cervical Cancer: Issues and Challenges for Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Gyawali Bishal , Iddawela Mahesh
Published: July 2016

Bevacizumab became the first molecular antibody to show survival benefit in advanced cervical cancer. In the GOG-0240 (Paclitaxel and Cisplatin or Topotecan With or Without Bevacizumab in Treating Patients With Stage IVB, Recurrent, or Persistent Cervical Cancer) trial, it improved overall survival by a significant 3.7 months over platinum doublet chemotherapy alone. However, this discovery is not likely to improve the status of global cervical cancer because more than 85% of patients with cervical cancer live in low- and middle-income countries and cannot afford bevacizumab. This commentary looks at the options by which this drug can be made more affordable and cost-effective for patients in low- and middle-income countries. We also discuss other important questions related to its affordability and cost issues such as the optimal number of cycles and personalizing the treatment. Finally, we emphasize that although the unaffordability of bevacizumab in cervical cancer seems to be a very important issue, the best cost-effective strategy against cervical cancer is prevention with screening and vaccination.
Effect of Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding on Photocleavage Reaction of (3-Benzazolyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl) Methyl Acetate
Authors: Honda Takuya , Ishida Yuka , Arai Tatsuo
Published: July 2016

Caged compounds, (3-benzazolyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl) methyl acetate (HBO-Ac, HBT-Ac, HBI-Ac) were synthesized and their photocleavage reaction were investigated by means of determination of quantum yield of photocleavage reaction as well as absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy and DFT calculation. These compounds are expected to exist as three conformations anti-enol (a), anti-enol (b) and syn-enol and exhibited fluorescence emission due to the tautomer produced by intramolecular hydrogen-atom transfer in anti-enol (a) form. The compounds HBT-Ac and HBI-Ac underwent photocleavage reaction in CH3Cl, CD3OD and aqueous CD3OD, while HBO-Ac underwent photocleavage reaction in CD3OD and aqueous CD3OD but almost no reaction in CDCl3. The photocleavage reaction may take place from anti-enol (a), which is in accordance to the results of DFT calculation and the experimental results that the relative efficiency of photocleavage reaction increased with decreasing the energy level of anti-enol (a) vs. syn-enol in the ground state calculated by DFT. The results obtained in this study suggest that the efficiency of photocleavage reaction depends on the solvent properties and hydrogen-bonding properties of light-absorbing chromophore of caged compounds which control the stability of conformation causing photocleavage reaction.
Health Insurance Mandates, Mammography, and Breast Cancer Diagnoses
Authors: Bitler Marianne P. , Carpenter Christopher S.
Published: July 2016

We examine the effects of state health insurance mandates requiring coverage of screening mammograms. We find evidence that mammography mandates significantly increased mammography screenings by 4.5–25 percent. Effects are larger for women with less than a high school degree in states that ban deductibles, a policy similar to a provision of federal health reform that eliminates cost-sharing for preventive care. We also find that mandates increased detection of early stage in-situ precancers. Finally, we find a substantial proportion of the increased screenings were attributable to mandates that are not consistent with 2014 recommendations of the American Cancer Society. (JEL G22, H51, H75, I12, I13, J16)
From Today's City to Tomorrow's City: An Empirical Investigation of Urban Land Assembly
Authors: Brooks Leah , Lutz Byron
Published: July 2016

Because cities are constrained by the boundaries of land ownership, fundamental urban modifications require land delineation changes. We evaluate whether there is enough land assembly—the joining together of two or more parcels of land—to put land to its highest value use. We hypothesize that in the absence of market frictions such as holdouts, the price of land sold for assembly should not exceed the price of land sold for other uses. Empirically, we find that to-be-assembled land in Los Angeles trades at a 15 to 40 percent premium and conclude that significant frictions prevent assembly. (JEL K11, P14, Q21, R14, R30, R52, R58)
Property Taxation, Zoning, and Efficiency in a Dynamic Tiebout Model
Authors: Barseghyan Levon , Coate Stephen
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a dynamic Tiebout model and uses it to revisit a classic argument in public finance. The argument, due to Hamilton (1975), is that a system of governments financing services with property taxes will produce an efficient allocation of housing and services if governments can implement zoning ordinances. In the model, when governments choose zoning along with taxes and services, there does not exist an equilibrium that is both efficient and locally stable. Moreover, there exists an equilibrium in which governments over-zone and households overconsume housing. These findings challenge the Benefit View of the property tax. (JEL H71, H73, R52)
Particulate Pollution and the Productivity of Pear Packers
Authors: Chang Tom , Graff Zivin Joshua , Gross Tal , Neidell Matthew
Published: July 2016

We study the effect of outdoor air pollution on the productivity of indoor workers at a pear-packing factory. Increases in fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a pollutant that readily penetrates indoors, leads to significant decreases in productivity, with effects arising at levels below air quality standards. In contrast, pollutants that do not travel indoors, such as ozone, have little, if any, effect on productivity. This effect of outdoor pollution on indoor worker productivity suggests an overlooked consequence of pollution. Back-of-the-envelope calculations suggest the labor savings from nationwide reductions in PM2.5 generated a sizable fraction of total welfare benefits. (JEL D24, J24, L66, Q13, Q51, Q53)
Recent advances in pathogenesis, assessment, and treatment of atherosclerosis
Authors: Spence J. David
Published: July 2016

In recent years, there have been a number of advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of atherosclerosis and in assessing prognosis in carotid atherosclerosis. Risk stratification to improve vascular prevention by identifying patients most likely to benefit from intensive therapy is much improved by measuring carotid plaque burden. In patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis, a number of modalities can be used to identify the 10-15% who could benefit from endarterectomy or stenting. Transcranial Doppler embolus detection, echolucency and ulceration on 3D ultrasound, intraplaque hemorrhage on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and reduced cerebrovascular reserve are useful already; new approaches including plaque texture on ultrasound and imaging of plaque inflammation and early calcification on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) are in development. The discovery that the intestinal microbiome produces vasculotoxic metabolites from dietary constituents such as carnitine in meat (particularly red meat) and phosphatidylcholine from egg yolk and other sources has revolutionized nutritional aspects of vascular prevention. Because many of these vasculotoxic metabolites are removed by the kidney, it is particularly important in patients with renal failure to limit their intake of red meat and egg yolk. A new approach to lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by blocking the action of an enzyme that destroys LDL receptors promises to revolutionize vascular prevention once less costly treatments are developed, and a new approach to vascular prevention—“treating arteries instead of risk factors”—shows promise but requires randomized trials. These advances all promise to help in the quest to prevent strokes in high-risk patients.
Diastolic function in patients with preeclampsia during pre- and post-partum period using tissue doppler imaging
Authors: Rangga Wibhuti I B , Soesanto Amiliana M. , Shahab Fahmi
Published: July 2016

Background: Prior studies have compared the E/e’ elevation in preeclampsia patients to normal patients, however there are no data whether this elevation persists after birth. The aim of this study is to analyze diastolic function in preeclampsia patients during pre- and post-partum period using E/e’ parameter measurement.Methods: This is a prospective cohort study of pregnant women with preeclampsia who were hospitalized and planned for pregnancy termination. Basic clinical characteristics were obtained from all samples. Echocardiography was done prepartum, 48-72 hours after termination, and 40-60 days postpartum. Post hoc analysis using least significant difference method was used to compare the results between measurements.Results: 30 subjects were enrolled in the study. Analysis on E/e’ characteristics showed statistical difference between prepartum E/e’ and 40 days postpartum E/e’ (11.87±3.184 vs 9.43±2.529, p=0.001, CI=1.123-3.751), as well as between 48 hours post-partum and 40 days post-partum period (12.12±2.754 vs 9.43±2.529, p<0.001, CI=1.615-3.771). There were no statistical differences between pre-partum E/e’ and 48 hours post-partum E/e’ (11.87±3.184 vs 12.12±2.754, p=0.633, CI=-1.345-0.832).Conclusion: This study showed diastolic dysfunction in preeclampsia patients persists up until a few days after birth, but resolves in time (40 days after birth) as measured by tissue doppler imaging.
Mediatization and the ‘molding force’ of the media
Authors: Hepp Andreas
Published: July 2016

The aim of this article is to contribute to the discussion surrounding mediatization by presenting some arguments on how we could include questions of media specificity in an appropriate way. The core argument is that we have to do this by integrating `media specificity' into a theory of communicative practice or action. In doing so, we can grasp media in their institutional and technological sense as `molding force' of communicative action and research them empirically as part of mediatization processes.
Priming religion: The effects of religious issues in the news coverage on public attitudes towards European integration
Authors: Hinrichsen Malte , Boomgaarden Hajo , de Vreese Claes , van der Brug Wouter , Hobolt Sara Binzer
Published: July 2016

Religion can affect public support for the European Union (EU). However, specifying the circumstances under which religion may become a stronger predictor of EU-support has so far been neglected. This article shows that the media play a role in this process and it is investigated to what extent the presence or absence of references to religious issues in EU news coverage primes people's religious attitudes to contribute to their evaluation of the EU. For this purpose, a content analysis of the amount of religious news items in EU coverage in German and Dutch newspapers between 1997 and 2007 was conducted. Two points in time were chosen — 1998, when only a small amount of religious news items appeared in EU coverage, and 2005, when religious items reached a peak. Eurobarometer data were used to test the media priming proposition. The findings show that an increasing religious dimension in media coverage about the EU primes a linkage between religious and political considerations and thus influences the strength of the impact of religion on attitudes towards the EU.
An exploration of adolescents’ sexual contact and conduct risks through mobile phone use
Authors: Vanden Abeele Mariek , Roe Keith , Eggermont Steven
Published: July 2016

This study explores the prevalence and predictors of three sexual contact and conduct risks through mobile phone use among adolescents (N = 540): (1) the exchange of sexually explicit content, (2) the sharing of one's mobile phone number with a stranger from the opposite sex, and (3) participation in anonymous chat rooms on TV. One in three adolescents admits having exchanged sexual content, one in five reports having shared their number with a stranger, and one in ten has participated in TV chat rooms. Contextual predictors were gender, age, having a (romantic) partner, self-esteem, popularity, susceptibility to peer pressure, parent attachment and attitude towards school. Strong mobile phone use predictors were the frequency of text messaging, problematic phone use and using one's phone to avoid face-to-face interactions. However, different patterns emerged for the different mobile phone practices and for girls and boys, indicating the need for further research.
Blind faith in the web? Internet use and empowerment among visually and hearing impaired adults: a qualitative study of benefits and barriers
Authors: Abeele Mariek Vanden , de Cock Rozane , Roe Keith
Published: July 2016

In this article we explore and contrast the uses and gratifications (sought and obtained) of the internet for blind/visually impaired and deaf/hearing impaired individuals. The uses and gratifications approach integrates the different issues that surround disabled persons’ internet use into one rich and coherent framework which allows a better understanding of the relationship between benefits obtained from internet use, underlying needs and the barriers that create gaps between gratifications sought and obtained. Based on 21 in-depth interviews, our study shows that both visually and hearing impaired individuals use the internet mostly for gathering information and for communicating with friends and family; meeting new people online was not a priority need. To a great extent these internet uses are driven by the underlying need for independence and active agency. Although our visually and hearing impaired informants share this need, the two groups differ in the gratifications obtained from the internet due to different barriers that hinder their use.
A mixed report: The effects of strategic and substantive news content on political cynicism and voting
Authors: Adriaansen Maud L. , van Praag Philip , de Vreese Claes H.
Published: July 2016

This article examines the effects of strategic and substantive news on political cynicism, turnout intention and voter uncertainty, drawing on two experiments (n = 451, 18–25 year-olds). We found that among less politically knowledgeable citizens, all news mobilizes, but strategic news also induces cynicism. For the more knowledgeable citizens, we found that the combination of strategic and substantive news yields slightly less cynicism and that substantive news makes these citizens reconsider their voting choice. Overall, we only found favorable or neutral effects among the more knowledgeable, while we found both favorable and unfavorable effects among the less knowledgeable. The implications for news effects research are discussed.
How much sex is there in soap operas on British TV?
Authors: Al-Sayed Rami , Gunter Barrie
Published: July 2016

Sexual depictions were analyzed in 139 episodes of seven drama serials on British mainstream television over a four-week period in November–December 2006. Scenes that depicted sexual behavior and talk about sexual matters were counted separately. Further distinctions were made on the basis of the levels of intimacy and the graphic nature of portrayals. A total of 506 sexual scenes were found that occurred at the rate of 6.5 per hour across the seven soaps, but this figure was inflated by one late-night serial that averaged 16.0 scenes per hourly episode. Nearly two-thirds of these scenes were restricted to talk about sexual matters, while the others contained overt depictions of sexual behavior. Sexual intercourse was relatively rare and restricted in terms of overt depictions to the late-night serial. Passionate kissing was far more prevalent throughout these programs regardless of the time of day the program was transmitted. When sexual intercourse was featured, this was generally in the context of loss of virginity or of infidelity.
The internet and sexual identity formation: Comparing Internet use before and after coming out
Authors: Szulc Łukasz , Dhoest Alexander
Published: July 2016

Even in its early years, the Internet was recognized as a medium with great potential for lesbians, gay men, and bisexual individuals (LGBs), especially for LGB youths struggling with their sexual identity. Yet, Internet research related to coming out tends to focus on particular cases or Internet use before and during coming out. Consequently, as such research emphasizes the opportunities and positive aspects of the Internet for LGBs, it may lead to an overestimation of the importance of sexual identity in terms of LGB Internet use. Therefore, in this paper we explore the LGB-specific Internet use of a broad crosssection of the LGB community both before or during and after coming out. Our quantitative online survey and in-depth interviews show that LGBs use the Internet for LGB-oriented purposes less after coming out than before or during it. The results suggest that sexual identity becomes a less salient topic in terms of everyday Internet use after coming out.
Young people’s news orientations and uses of traditional and new media for news
Authors: Van Cauwenberge Anna , d’Haenens Leen , Beentjes Hans
Published: July 2016

This article reports on Flemish college students’ news orientations and their uses of traditional and new media for news within a public service media environment. We used five homogeneous focus groups that covered variation in news media use. The analysis of the focus groups revealed major differences in news behaviors and attitudes between participants who mainly depended on traditional media for news, and those who also went online for news. While a growing body of research reports on young people’s increasing use of online media for news, particularly among those that are most disengaged with traditional news media, our findings indicated that only the most eager news-users were motivated to gather information online. Additionally, we found that traditional media, in particular national quality papers and the Flemish public service newscast, were still the main reference points for public affairs information among our participants.
In the footsteps of Bob and Angelina: Celebrities’ diverse societal engagement and its ability to attract media coverage
Authors: Panis Koen , Van den Bulck Hilde
Published: July 2016

While media coverage is a main aim of celebrities’ societal engagement, academic analysis of its news-making ability is scarce. As a diverse phenomenon, we argue that the ability of celebrities’ societal engagement to attract media attention depends on how certain characteristics (i.e., celebrities’ claim to fame, roles they take on and issues they support) fit news selection criteria to a greater or lesser extent. First, this article determines how the three studied components (claim to fame, role and issue) relate to each other by means of an internet search and analysis. Second, using the internet data as a benchmark, the article looks at how celebrities’ engagement is covered in Flemish newspapers. Results suggest that certain forms of celebrities’ societal engagement are more likely than others to generate media coverage, as Flemish newspapers tend to focus more on the issue of development aid, ad hoc celebrity roles, and local Flemish celebrities and issues.
Save me, save them! Trash talk shows and the third-person effect
Authors: Guerrero-Solé Frederic , Besalú Reinald , López-González Hibai
Published: July 2016

Since Davison (1983) proposed the hypothesis regarding the Third-Person Effect (TPE), it has been widely accepted by researchers in communication. The objective of this study is to test both perceptual and behavioral components of TPE in Spain related to media in general, violent, pornographic, and trash TV shows (in particular, the TV show
Assessing the role of adhesives in durability of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) by fracture mechanics
Authors: Mirzaei Babak , Sinha Arijit , Nairn John A.
Published: July 2016

This study explored the suitability of fracture toughness properties for durability assessment of wood composite panels by observing changes in fracture toughness during crack propagation following cyclic exposure to moisture conditions. The main objective was to develop a new method for ranking the role of adhesives in the durability of wood-based composites. This new approach was compared to conventional mechanical performance tests, such as observing strength and stiffness loss after exposure. Comparing changes in fracture toughness as a function of crack length after moisture cycling shows that this approach can distinguish different adhesive systems on the basis of their durability, while conventional tests fail in this regard. The most and least durable adhesives (polyvinyl acetate and phenol formaldehyde) could be distinguished based on steady-state toughness alone, but this was not the case for the performance of two other adhesives (emulsion polymer isocyanate and phenol resorcinol formaldehyde). Further analysis of experimental R curves (toughness as a function of crack length) based on kinetics of degradation was able to rank all adhesives confidently. Probably, the failure of conventional tests in this context is that they are based on initiation of failure, while the fracture tests require consideration of fracture properties after a significant amount of crack propagation has occurred.
Changes of antioxidant enzymes of mung bean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] in response to host and non-host bacterial pathogens
Authors: Farahani Ali Safaie , Taghavi Mohsen
Published: July 2016

The natural resistance against the majority of potential pathogens that exist in most plant species is known as non-host resistance. Several reports suggest the role of antioxidant enzymes in non-host resistance. We assayed the expression or activity of four scavenging enzymes during non-host pathogen-plant interaction (Xanthomonas hortorum pv. pelargonii/mung bean) and host pathogen-plant interaction (Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli/mung bean). The expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and the enzyme activity of catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POX) were investigated. The activities of CAT and POX were higher during non-host pathogen invasion vs. host pathogen attack. The expression of SOD and APX were also different between compatible and incompatible interactions. The expression of SOD and APX were higher in the incompatible compared to the compatible interaction. Additionally, induction of the antioxidant enzymes in response to non-host pathogen was earlier than induction in response to host pathogen. Such information is important for plant breeders, and useful when looking for alternative control strategies as well.
Die Rolle der Selbstbestimmung in der Rechtfertigung passiver und aktiver Sterbehilfe
Authors: Müller Andreas
Published: July 2016

Wann und auf welche Weise dürfen Ärzte am Tod eines Patienten mitwirken? Der vorliegende Beitrag widmet sich der argumentativen Rolle, die die Selbstbestimmung des Patienten in der Auseinandersetzung über diese Frage spielt. Auf der Grundlage einer detaillierten Untersuchung der moralischen Relevanz von Einwilligungen als einer wesentlichen Ausprägung dieser Selbstbestimmung wird zum einen dafür argumentiert, dass es einen moralisch signifikanten Unterschied zwischen passiver - d. h. mit dem Verzicht auf eine lebensverlängernde medizinische Maßnahme einhergehender - und aktiver Sterbehilfe gibt. Die Zulässigkeit der aktiven Sterbehilfe kann folglich nicht schon mittels eines Äquivalenzarguments aus der Zulässigkeit der passiven abgeleitet werden. Zum anderen aber lässt sich auf derselben Grundlage zeigen, wie ein am Selbstbestimmungsrecht des Patienten ansetzendes Argument für die Zulässigkeit mancher Fälle von aktiver Sterbehilfe präzisiert und gegen zwei verbreitete Einwände verteidigt werden kann.
Reduzierung von Tierversuchen durch stammzellbasierte Testsysteme?
Authors: Ach Johann S.
Published: July 2016

Aus humanen embryonalen Stammzellen (hES-Zellen) sowie aus humanen induzierten pluripotenten Zellen (hiPS-Zellen) abgeleitete Zellen können sowohl für die Testung neuer Substanzen auf mögliche pharmakologische Wirkungen (drug screening), als auch für die frühzeitige Bestimmung möglicher toxischer Effekte von Substanzen genutzt werden. Als ein Vorzug der pharmakologischen und toxikologischen Nutzung von stammzellbasierten in-vitro-Testsystemen wird genannt, dass entsprechende Systeme einen Beitrag zur Verminderung, Verbesserung oder Vermeidung von Tierversuchen leisten können. Dies wirft eine Reihe von Fragen auf, die im Fokus der nachstehenden Ausführungen stehen, die auf einen am Centrum für Bioethik der Universität Münster entstandenen Bericht zurückgehen, der im Februar 2015 im Auftrag und mit Mitteln der ethisch-rechtlich-sozialwissenschaftlichen Arbeitsgemeinschaft des Kompetenznetzwerks Stammzellforschung NRW erstellt worden ist.
Fertile Contradictions: A Reconsideration of “The Seducer’s Diary”
Authors: Stan Leo
Published: July 2016

The present article wishes to question and complicate the longestablished portrayal of Johannes the seducer as an unambiguously evil character. After a careful psycho-existential analysis of his personality, I will draw attention to his fundamentally contradictory nature. Next, turning to his relation to Cordelia, I will indicate different existential possibilities available to her after the traumatic experience of seduction. The article ends with a multifaceted hypothesis about the kind of selfhood Johannes may embody in Kierkegaard’s philosophical universe.
Kierkegaard und das ‚jüdische Denken‘: Die Rezeption Sören Kierkegaards in der jüdischen Moderne im Kontext des Orientalismus
Authors: Nowotny Joanna
Published: July 2016

Starting after 1900, there was an intense and fruitful discussion of the philosophy and literature of the “Christian author” Kierkegaard amongst Jewish intellectuals in many different fields. This raises the question of why and in what way Kierkegaard’s work became particularly relevant in the context of Jewish Modernity. The paper outlines some ways in which Kierkegaard could be appropriated into Jewish thinking, paying particular attention to the discourse of Orientalism. By assimilating Kierkegaard’s thinking to orientalist notions of “Jewish thought” that were constructed in opposition to “Christian” or “Western” thought, writers like Martin Buber, Max Brod, Gershom Scholem or Lev Shestov see him as a mediator between Judaism and Christianity, or, in more extreme cases, explicitly claim him as “Jewish.” The Jewish reception of Kierkegaard therefore gives prime examples of how differences between “Jewish” and “Christian” thinking get constructed through debates concerned with identity.
Andreas Frederik Beck’s Review of Philosophical Fragments
Authors: Stewart Jon
Published: July 2016

The present article presents the Danish theologian Andreas Frederik Beck and provides an English translation of his book review of Philosophical Fragments. In Kierkegaard’s time, Beck was a proponent of left Hegelianism and a follower of Bruno Bauer and David Friedrich Strauss. As a student of the University of Copenhagen, Beck was acquainted with Kierkegaard personally and had a special interest in The Concept of Irony, which he reviewed in 1842. In 1845 Beck published an anonymous book review in German of Philosophical Fragments in a theological journal in Berlin. This review, which appears here in English translation for the first time, provides some insight into the contemporary reception of this important work.
In-vitro effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with methylene blue in two different genera of dermatophyte fungi
Authors: Spezzia-Mazzocco Teresita , Torres-Hurtado Susana A. , Ramírez-San-Juan Julio Cesar , Ramos-García Rubén
Published: July 2016

Background and objectives:

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a technique that combines the photoactivation properties of an innocuous chromophore or photosensitizer (PS) and light, producing reactive oxygen molecules that trigger cell death processes. In this study the in-vitro application of aPDT to fight fungal infections was investigated using methylene blue (MB) as the PS.

Materials and methods:

The antimicrobial PDT process was carried out with MB and red laser light (λ=633 nm) to activate the PS. Testing was performed with suspensions of various species of dermatophyte fungi (Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis and Microsporum gypseum), including a fungus, which to our knowledge, has not been previously studied using this dye (Trichophyton tonsurans). For T. tonsurans further optimization tests were carried out.

Results and discussion:

The fungicidal effect of MB-aPDT was evident. Microsporum strains were slightly more sensitivity to the treatment than Trichophyton strains. The response of T. tonsurans to aPDT was less than to the other fungi tested under the same conditions, or even with higher fluence. However, repetitive aPDT treatment with very low doses of light can achieve a good effectiveness with this strain effecting total growth inhibition. Light may even disturb fungi growth in some circumstances, especially in strain such as T. tonsurans.

Conclusion:

This study with Trichophyton and Microsporum strains showed that MB was an effective PS to inhibit fungal growth through aPDT, reaching a total inhibition in most of the fungi tested. It was found that repeated exposure with low-power light within the framework of aPDT treatment can achieve better results than a single exposure at higher power.
Implied basket correlation dynamics
Authors: Härdle Wolfgang Karl , Silyakova Elena
Published: July 2016

Equity basket correlation can be estimated both using the physical measure from stock prices, and also using the risk neutral measure from option prices. The difference between the two estimates motivates a so-called “dispersion strategy”. We study the performance of this strategy on the German market and propose several profitability improvement schemes based on implied correlation (IC) forecasts. Modelling IC conceals several challenges. Firstly the number of correlation coefficients would grow with the size of the basket. Secondly, IC is not constant over maturities and strikes. Finally, IC changes over time. We reduce the dimensionality of the problem by assuming equicorrelation. The IC surface (ICS) is then approximated from the implied volatilities of stocks and the implied volatility of the basket. To analyze the dynamics of the ICS we employ a dynamic semiparametric factor model.
Palpation thyroiditis following subtotal parathyroidectomy for hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Madill Elizabeth M , Cooray Shamil D , Bach Leon A
Published: July 2016

Thyrotoxicosis is an under-recognised but clinically important complication of parathyroidectomy. We report a case of a 37-year-old man with tertiary hyperparathyroidism who initially developed unexplained anxiety, diaphoresis, tachycardia, tremor and hyperreflexia one day after subtotal parathyroidectomy. Thyroid biochemistry revealed suppressed thyroid stimulating hormone and elevated serum free T4 and free T3 levels. Technetium-99m scintigraphy scan confirmed diffusely decreased radiotracer uptake consistent with thyroiditis. The patient was diagnosed with thyrotoxicosis resulting from palpation thyroiditis. Administration of oral beta-adrenergic antagonists alleviated his symptoms and there was biochemical evidence of resolution fourteen days later. This case illustrates the need to counsel patients about thyroiditis as one of the potential risks of parathyroid surgery. It also emphasises the need for biochemical surveillance in patients with unexplained symptoms in the post-operative period and may help to minimise further invasive investigations for diagnostic clarification.

Learning points

Thyroiditis as a complication of parathyroidectomy surgery is uncommon but represents an under-recognised phenomenon.

It is thought to occur due to mechanical damage of thyroid follicles by vigorous palpation.

Palpation of the thyroid gland may impair the physical integrity of the follicular basement membrane, with consequent development of an inflammatory response.

The majority of patients are asymptomatic, however clinically significant thyrotoxicosis occurs in a minority.

Patients should be advised of thyroiditis/thyrotoxicosis as a potential complication of the procedure.

Testing of thyroid function should be performed if clinically indicated, particularly if adrenergic symptoms occur post-operatively with no other cause identified.
Seventy two-hour glucose monitoring profiles in mild gestational diabetes mellitus: differences from healthy pregnancies and influence of diet counseling
Authors: Carreiro Marina Pimenta , Lauria Márcio W , Naves Gabriel Nino T , Miranda Paulo Augusto C , Leite Ricardo Barsaglini , Rajão Kamilla Maria Araújo Brandão , de Aguiar Regina Amélia Lopes Pessoa , Nogueira Anelise Impeliziere , Ribeiro-Oliveira Antônio
Published: July 2016

Objective

To study glucose profiles of gestational diabetes (GDM) patients with 72 h of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) either before (GDM1) or after (GDM2) dietary counseling, comparing them with nondiabetic (NDM) controls.

Design and methods

We performed CGM on 22 GDM patients; 11 before and 11 after dietary counseling and compared them to 11 healthy controls. Several physiological and clinical characteristics of the glucose profiles were compared across the groups, including comparisons for pooled 24-h measures and hourly median values, summary measures representing glucose exposure (area under the median curves) and variability (amplitude, standard deviation, interquartile range), and time points related to meals.

Results

Most women (81.8%) in the GDM groups had fasting glucose <95mg/dL, suggesting mild GDM. Variability, glucose levels 1 and 2h after breakfast and dinner, peak values after dinner and glucose levels between breakfast and lunch, were all significantly higher in GDM1 than NDM (P<0.05 for all comparisons). The GDM2 results were similar to NDM in all aforementioned comparisons (P>0.05). Both GDM groups spent more time with glucose levels above 140mg/dL when compared with the NDM group. No differences among the groups were found for: pooled measurements and hourly comparisons, exposure, nocturnal, fasting, between lunch and dinner and before meals, as well as after lunch (P>0.05 for all).

Conclusion

The main differences between the mild GDM1 group and healthy controls were related to glucose variability and excursions above 140mg/dL, while glucose exposure was similar. Glucose levels after breakfast and dinner also discerned the GDM1 group. Dietary counseling was able to keep glucose levels to those of healthy patients.
Exenatide improves β-cell function up to 3 years of treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: van Raalte Daniël H , Bunck Mathijs C , Smits Mark M , Hoekstra T , Cornér Anja , Diamant Michaela , Eliasson Bjorn ,   Marja-RiittaTaskinen, Heine Robert J , Smith Ulf ,   HanneleYki-Järvinen, Mari Andrea
Published: July 2016

Objective

Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonist treatment improves β-cell function. In this study, we investigated whether the improvements are sustained during a 3-year treatment period.

Research design and methods

Sixty-nine metformin-treated type 2 diabetes patients were randomised to the GLP1 receptor agonist, exenatide (EXE) twice daily (BID) or to insulin glargine (GLAR). β-cell function parameters were derived using the Mari model from standardised breakfast and lunch meals that were administered before treatment, and after 1 and 3 years of treatment. EXE was administered before breakfast.

Results

Fifty-nine (EXE: n = 30; GLAR: n = 29) and thirty-six (EXE: n = 16; GLAR: n = 20) patients completed the meal at 1- and 3-year treatment respectively. After 3 years, groups had comparable glycaemic control (HbA1c: EXE 6.6 ± 0.2% and GLAR 6.9 ± 0.2%; P = 0.216). Compared with GLAR, at 1 and 3 years, EXE induced a stronger reduction in post-breakfast glucose concentrations (P < 0.001), with lower C-peptide levels (P < 0.001). Compared with GLAR, EXE increased insulin secretion at 8 mmol/L glucose throughout the study period (P < 0.01). Both treatments improved β-cell glucose sensitivity after 1-year treatment. However, only EXE treatment sustained this improvement for 3 years. No consistent changes in other β-cell parameters including rate sensitivity and potentiation were observed.

Conclusions

Compared with GLAR, EXE improved the parameters of β-cell function, especially insulin secretion at 8 mmol/L glucose and β-cell glucose sensitivity, which was sustained during the 3-year treatment period.