bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simone Weil: Suffering, Attention and Compassionate Thought
Authors: Jesson Stuart
Published: April 2014

This article explores Simone Weil’s account of the relationship between human suffering and intellectual life, with reference to the issues raised by the allegation that as an enterprise theodicy evinces a failure to ‘take suffering seriously’. The article shows how Weil’s understanding of the relationship between suffering and attention gives a clear and powerful account of the way that compassion—which involves an uncompromising acceptance of suffering—can be discerned in patterns of thought. Nevertheless, it is less clear in her work how these convictions might serve as a guide for theological statements. Weil’s understanding of the Christian conception of life is centred on the experience of finding God present in and through suffering, and this leaves her with the problem of how to reconcile her commitment not to ‘sweeten what is bitter’ with consolations or compensations with her intuition that the truth of creaturely existence is made available through suffering. Through an analysis of the inner contours of this conflict, it is argued that Weil’s central problem is of how to articulate spiritual reality in such a way as to encourage undivided attention, which is the only ground for the hope that truthful, compassionate thought about suffering might be possible.
Analysis of ignition risk in intermittent turning of UNS M11917 magnesium alloy at low cutting speeds based on the chip morphology
Authors: Carou Diego , Rubio Eva M , Davim JP
Published: April 2014

This study is based on a series of turning tests of UNS M11917 magnesium alloy, using low cutting speeds to emulate the conditions of repair and maintenance operations. More specifically, intermittent turning process, using both dry machining and minimum quantity lubrication system, is analysed. Cutting operations are done to evaluate the chip morphology obtained in order to assess their suitability for the cutting process and chip ignition probability of occurrence. From the point of view of machining, favourable chips are identified in all the tests done, getting chips of short length. However, in terms of ignition risk, short chips are considered unfavourable. Main results show how uncoated tools (HX) provided worse results in terms of short chips, while coated tools (TP2500) provided chips of size higher than 1 mm in all the cutting operations performed. Besides, a detrimental effect of the use of the minimum quantity lubrication system in the ignition risk is also identified.
Preliminary analysis of organic Rankine cycles to improve vehicle efficiency
Authors: Glover Stephen , Douglas Roy , Glover Laura , McCullough Geoff
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the background rationale and key findings for a model-based study of supercritical waste heat recovery organic Rankine cycles. The paper’s objective is to cover the necessary groundwork to facilitate the future operation of a thermodynamic organic Rankine cycle model under realistic thermodynamic boundary conditions for performance optimisation of organic Rankine cycles. This involves determining the type of power cycle for organic Rankine cycles, the circuit configuration and suitable boundary conditions. The study focuses on multiple heat sources from vehicles but the findings are generally applicable, with careful consideration, to any waste heat recovery system. This paper introduces waste heat recovery and discusses the general merits of organic fluids versus water and supercritical operation versus subcritical operation from a theoretical perspective and, where possible, from a practical perspective. The benefits of regeneration are investigated from an efficiency perspective for selected subcritical and supercritical conditions. A simulation model is described with an introduction to some general Rankine cycle boundary conditions. The paper describes the analysis of real hybrid vehicle data from several driving cycles and its manipulation to represent the thermal inertia for model heat input boundary conditions. Basic theory suggests that selecting the operating pressures and temperatures to maximise the Rankine cycle performance is relatively straightforward. However, it was found that this may not be the case for an organic Rankine cycle operating in a vehicle. When operating in a driving cycle, the available heat and its quality can vary with the power output and between heat sources. For example, the available coolant heat does not vary much with the load, whereas the quantity and quality of the exhaust heat varies considerably. The key objective for operation in the vehicle is optimum utilisation of the available heat by delivering the maximum work out. The fluid selection process and the presentation and analysis of the final results of the simulation work on organic Rankine cycles are the subjects of two future publications.
Collaborative cognition: Co-creating children’s artwork in an educational context
Authors: Hallam Jenny , Lee Helen , Das Gupta Mani
Published: April 2014

Based on a wider research project which critiqued the centricity of cognitivism in research investigating children’s drawings this article explores the relationship between social interaction and materiality. Case studies are presented to systematically analyse a range of naturalistic data collected from art classes held in two Staffordshire primary schools. Use of a multi-level analysis demonstrates the ways in which materiality (space, tools, and materials) work as enabling constraints which shape discursive interaction. Concurrently, photographs of artwork created in the lesson examine how interaction guides the creation of material objects—child art. The analysis demonstrates that the creation of child art is not an individual endeavour and questions the assumption that artwork is a mirror to the child’s mind. Instead, it is inextricably bound to the discursive and material contexts it is created in. Thus, ethnography is presented as a useful tool for examining interactions between discursive and material practices.
Coordinated bargaining in Europe: From incremental corrosion to frontal assault?
Authors: Marginson Paul
Published: April 2014

The viability of coordinated, multi-employer bargaining arrangements as a cornerstone of labour market regulation in Western Europe has come under further threat following the crisis. Already, pressure for decentralization had corroded the capacity of sector agreements to specify universal standards applicable at company level. Procedural mechanisms articulating the two levels had become looser and more open-ended. This process has intensified in Northern European countries, whilst in Southern Europe, under pressure from the European institutions, a frontal assault on multi-employer bargaining arrangements is now underway. Reinforced European economic governance intensifies the need for coordination of bargaining across borders, but the capacity for achieving this is significantly reduced by the erosion of capacities for effective coordination within national bargaining systems.
President Franklin D Roosevelt (1882–1945) and Doctor Frank Howard Lahey’s (1880–1953) dilemma: The complexities of medical confidentiality with World Leaders
Authors: Steinberg David
Published: April 2014

In the months before the Presidential Election of November 1944, there were serious concerns about the health of President Franklin D Roosevelt. He had lost considerable weight and his once robust appearance had given way to a tired and haggard look. Despite these worrisome observations, Vice-Admiral Ross T McIntire, who served as Franklin Roosevelt’s personal physician from 1933 until Roosevelt’s death, lied when he proclaimed Roosevelt to be in ‘excellent condition for a man of his age’. The truth about Roosevelt’s health was further obscured when Roosevelt’s medical records disappeared.
Stanley Cobb (1887–1968): studying the link between the mind and the body
Authors: Vivekanantham Sayinthen , Dutta Agneish
Published: April 2014

Stanley Cobb was an eminent neurologist that is regarded as ‘the founder of biological psychiatry'. Having studied at Harvard university, Cobb had many varied interests, including ornithology and natural history. Following his undergraduate studies, he travelled widely and incorporated a period of study in Europe. Upon return to America, he was appointed Director of the Harvard Neurological Unit. Following a change of interest from neurology to psychiatry, Cobb was instrumental in establishing psychiatry as a specialty in America. The research laboratory, ‘Stanley Cobb Laboratory for Psychiatric Research' at Massachusetts General Hospital was named in his honour and contribution to the service at the hospital.
An adaptive learning damage estimation method for structural health monitoring
Authors: Chakraborty Debejyo , Kovvali Narayan , Papandreou-Suppappola Antonia , Chattopadhyay Aditi
Published: April 2014

Structural health monitoring is an important problem of interest in many civil infrastructure and aerospace applications. In the last few decades, many techniques have been investigated to address the detection, estimation, and classification of damage in structural components. One of the key challenges in the development of real-world damage identification systems, however, is variability due to changing environmental and operational conditions. Conventional statistical methods based on static modeling frameworks can prove to be inadequate in a dynamic and fast changing environment, especially when a sufficient amount of data is not available. In this paper, a novel adaptive learning structural damage estimation method is proposed in which the stochastic models are allowed to perpetually change with the time-varying conditions. The adaptive learning framework is based on the use of Dirichlet process (DP) mixture models, which provide the capability of automatically adjusting to structure within the data. Specifically, time–frequency features are extracted from periodically collected structural data (measured sensor signals), that are responses to ultrasonic excitation of the material. These are then modeled using a DP mixture model that allows for a growing, possibly infinite, number of mixture components or latent clusters. Combined with input from physically based damage growth models, the adaptively identified clusters are used in a state-space setting to effectively estimate damage states within the structure under varying external conditions. Additionally, a data selection methodology is implemented to enable judicious selection of informative measurements for maximum performance. The utility of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated by application to the estimation of fatigue-induced damage in an aluminum compact tension sample subjected to variable-amplitude cyclic loading.
Unemployment Benefit Exhaustion
Authors: Filges Trine , Geerdsen Lars Pico , Knudsen Anne-Sofie Due , Jørgensen Anne-Marie Klint
Published: April 2014

Purpose: This systematic review studied the impact of exhaustion of unemployment benefits on the exit rate out of unemployment and into employment prior to benefit exhaustion or shortly thereafter. Method: We followed Campbell Collaboration guidelines to prepare this review, and ultimately located 12 studies for final analysis and interpretation. Twelve studies could be included in the data synthesis. Results: We found clear evidence that the prospect of exhaustion of benefits results in a significantly increased incentive for finding work. Discussion: The theoretical suggestion that the prospect of exhaustion of benefits results in an increased incentive for finding work has been confirmed empirically by measures from seven different European countries, the United States, and Canada. The results are robust in the sense that sensitivity analyses evidenced no appreciable changes in the results. We found no strong indication of the presence of publication bias.
Brief Strategic Family Therapy for Young People in Treatment for Drug Use
Authors: Lindstrøm Maia , Filges Trine , Jørgensen Anne-Marie Klint
Published: April 2014

Purpose: This review evaluates the evidence on the effects of brief strategic family therapy (BSFT) on drug use reduction for young people in treatment for nonopioid drug use. Method: We followed Campbell Collaboration guidelines to prepare this review and ultimately located three studies for final analysis and interpretation. Results: The results are mixed: BSFT does not seem to have better or worse effects on drug use frequency and family functioning than other treatments but has positive effects on treatment retention compared to control conditions. Longer retention in treatment has been identified as a consistent predictor of a favorable outcome from drug use treatment. Discussion: Although it is possible that the length of follow-up in the included studies was insufficient to detect significant changes, it should be noted that the evidence we found was limited, in terms of both the number of studies and their quality.
Generalization of load–unload and force-release sequentially linear methods
Authors: Eliáš J
Published: April 2014

Two different non-iterative solving approaches for mechanical systems composed of elements with saw-tooth constitutive laws have been described in the literature. The first algorithm called the load–unload ( L–U) method removes the whole external load after every rupture event and linearly increases it again from zero until the next rupture event occurs. The second algorithm, called the force-release ( F-R) method, keeps the load unchanged after a rupture and redistributes the stresses from damaged elements until an equilibrium state has been reached. Then, the load may increase again. It is known that these two algorithms yield different results with respect to crack paths and force–deflection curves, even for proportional loading paths. It will be shown that these two algorithms can be taken as extreme cases of a general approach that is developed in this paper. The general method is based on the simultaneous redistribution of stresses from damaged elements together with the scaling of external load. Both the L–U and F-R algorithms can be reproduced by the general method and thus compared within one framework. The general method also allows the tracing of snap-backs and enables the simulation to be controlled indirectly, e.g. via crack mouth opening displacement. It is applicable to both proportional and non-proportional load paths.
Drug Interaction Between Oral Cyclosporine Modified and Iron
Authors: Domingo-Chiva Esther , Ruíz-Ramos Jesús , Marqués-Miñana Maria-Remedios , Valladolid-Walsh Ana , Poveda-Andrés Jose-Luis
Published: April 2014

Objective: To describe a recent case of suspected interaction between oral cyclosporine modified and iron. Case Summary: A 33-year-old man underwent urgent cardiac transplantation for refractory cardiogenic shock caused by acute myocarditis. The patient had persistently low levels of cyclosporine despite a dose increase of the drug after the change of administration route from intravenous to oral. Spacing the administration of cyclosporine modified from oral iron resolved the problem. This drug interaction was reported as “probable” as determined by a Drug Interaction Probability Scale score of 7. Using this scoring system, the patient experienced a probable drug interaction between cyclosporine and iron both administered orally, and we surmise that the mechanism is that iron physicochemically destabilizes the cyclosporine microemulsion when both are administered concurrently. Discussion: This may be because of the interaction between cyclosporine microemulsion and iron because this cation can destabilize the immunosuppressant dosage form. Conclusions: Taking into account that joint administration of oral iron and cyclosporine modified can generate a physicochemical interaction that involves a decrease in the absorption of cyclosporine modified, we believe that it is necessary to recommend spacing administrations of both drugs as well as monitoring levels of cyclosporine in order to ensure optimal levels of immunosuppression.
Keep Testing the Waters
Authors: Fanniff Amanda M. , Letourneau Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2014

Hecker raises a number of important considerations in interpreting the review of literature and empirical research presented in Fanniff and Letourneau’s article “Another Piece of the Puzzle: Psychometric Properties of the J-SOAP-II.” Despite these considerations and the publication of new research in the interim, the current authors continue to urge caution in the interpretation of Juvenile Sex Offender Assessment Protocol-II (J-SOAP-II) scores in disposition evaluations, largely due to the serious consequences that youth face in this context.
Follow the Leader? Evidence on European and US Tax Competition
Authors: Altshuler Rosanne , Goodspeed Timothy J.
Published: April 2014

This article breaks from the previous empirical literature that estimates Nash tax reaction functions of national governments competing with other national governments assuming that competitors play a Nash game and adjust to a Nash equilibrium in every year. We question this assumption and explore whether one country plays a leadership role in tax competition using data from 1968 to 2008. We test the leadership role of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, and find support for a US leadership role. We also investigate whether countries react differently immediately after watershed tax reforms such as the 1986 US Tax Reform Act or the 1984 UK tax reform. We find some support for a different reaction to the United States following the 1986 US reform, but not for the United Kingdom or Germany.
Fortunes for sale: Cultural politics and commodification of culture in millennial Turkey
Authors: Korkman Zeynep K
Published: April 2014

This article examines a peculiar case of commodification of culture under the shadow of a law serving a repressive agenda of modernist, secularist cultural politics. Fortune-telling, criminalized in the name of nationalist modernization in the early 20th century, has become popularized and commercialized in millennial Turkey in emergent businesses called fortune-telling cafés, where complimentary cup readings are provided with a cup of Turkish coffee to avoid persecution. Informed by fieldwork in fortune-telling cafés, I explicate this commodification in terms of the recent recalibration of Turkey’s national identity and culture, specifically in relation to Europe. The article analyzes the relationship between commodification of culture and cultural politics in the particular context of post-colonial nationalisms that host a strong tension between popular and national cultures.
What are you saying? Challenges and opportunities for increasing visibility and understanding of indoor microbiological research
Authors: Kahlor Lee Ann , Dudo Anthony , Liang Ming-Ching , AbiGhannam Niveen
Published: April 2014

This study identifies challenges that microbiologists who study built environments face in their efforts to increase public understanding and visibility associated with their research. More specifically, it offers an empirical assessment of these scientists’ perceptions of what people need to understand – specific research terms and concepts are noted – and what needs to be considered when communicating with key decision-makers in agencies that fund research. The results of semi-structured interviews with 79 U.S. scientists highlight several themes, terms, and concepts that require improved understanding among laypeople, policy-makers, and funding agencies. The results also imply that these scientists are willing communicators who are often called upon by laypeople to answer questions about microbial issues and research related to built environments. Suggestions are made to aid this research community’s future public communication efforts.
Surgical wound infections after peripheral vascular surgery
Authors: Turtiainen J. , Hakala T.
Published: April 2014

Surgical wound infection is one of the most common complications after peripheral vascular surgery. It increases the affected patient’s risk for major amputation as well as mortality. Furthermore, surgical wound infection is an additional cost. Wound infections after vascular surgery are of multifactorial nature and generally result from the interplay of patient- and procedure-related factors. The use of systemic antibiotic prophylaxis may be the most important method in preventing surgical wound infections. In this review article, we report the current literature of surgical wound infections after peripheral vascular surgery.
Pitfalls of femoral Titanium Elastic Nailing
Authors: Salonen A. , Lahdes-Vasama T. , Mattila V. M. , Välipakka J. , Pajulo O.
Published: April 2014

Background and Aims:

Despite several potential complications of elastic intramedullary nailing, it is currently the treatment of choice for femoral diaphyseal fractures in school-aged children. This study aimed to critically evaluate the complications of titanium elastic nailing in pediatric femoral shaft fractures.

Material and Methods:

This study evaluated patients with a diaphyseal femoral fracture treated with titanium elastic nailing (TEN) in Tampere University Hospital in Finland. The study group included 32 children with a mean age of 9 years during a 5-year period, from 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2007. Data were collected from medical records and x-rays. Mean follow-up time was 42 months.

Results:

Of 32 patients, 9 (28%) reported a postoperative complication. Complications were associated with nail prominence in five (16%) patients and instability in four (12%) patients. In patients with nail prominence, the titanium elastic nailing–nail ends were unbent and 10–35 mm outside the cortex of the distal femur. The nail prominence caused pain and delayed knee mobilization until the nail was removed after a mean time of 4 months. In patients with fracture instability, the mean titanium elastic nailing–nail/medullary canal diameter ratio was 46% and periosteal callus formation was 5.4 mm at the first control. In those with stable fractures, the values were 66% and 9.2 mm, respectively.

Conclusions:

Based on this study, two types of pitfalls in a small volume center were found. Titanium elastic nail ends were left unbent and too long. We recommend palpating the nail ends to exclude nail prominence and to verify free movement of the knee after nail cutting and bending. Fracture instability was caused by inserting titanium elastic nailing–nails that were too narrow. To avoid this complication, careful preoperative planning to select the proper-size titanium elastic nailing–nails and intraoperative testing of fracture stability under continuous fluoroscopy after the operation is advised.
The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system in adolescent offspring born prematurely to mothers with preeclampsia
Authors: Washburn Lisa K , Brosnihan K Bridget , Chappell Mark C , Diz Debra I , Gwathmey TanYa M , Nixon Patricia A , Russell Gregory B , Snively Beverly M , O’Shea T Michael
Published: April 2014

Hypothesis/introduction:

Preeclampsia is associated with alterations in the maternal renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), increased blood pressure (BP), and cardiovascular risk in the offspring. We hypothesized that preeclampsia is associated with alterations in the RAAS in the offspring that persist into adolescence.

Materials and methods:

We compared components of the circulating ( n = 111) and renal ( n = 160) RAAS in adolescents born prematurely with very low birth weight (VLBW) of preeclamptic (PreE) and normotensive (NoHTN) pregnancies. Multivariable linear regression was used to evaluate potential confounding and intermediate variables. Analyses were stratified by sex.

Results:

Adjusting for race and antenatal steroid exposure, male offspring of PreE mothers had higher circulating aldosterone than those of NoHTN mothers (adjusted mean difference = 109; 95% confidence limits: −9, 227 pmol/L). Further adjustment for current BMI attenuated this difference (adjusted mean difference: 93; 95% confidence limits: −30, 215 pmol/L).

Conclusion:

Among male preterm VLBW infants, maternal preeclampsia is associated with increased circulating aldosterone level in adolescence, which appears to be mediated in part by higher BMI.
Everyday routines: A window into the cultural organization of family child care
Authors: Tonyan Holli A
Published: April 2014

Eco(logical)-cultural Theory suggests that a daily routine results from individuals adapting cultural ideas to the constraints of a local context or ecology. Using Ecocultural Theory, this research examined family child care providers’ descriptions of daily activities and overall approach to understand cultural models. The results highlighted a predominant cultural model reflecting ideas of “natural” child development facilitated by a structured daily routine. However, an alternative model emphasizing flexibility, intimacy, and relationships was also present. The results suggest that we need to better understand the conditions under which certain models become widely appropriated and enacted.
Shared storybook reading in the preschool setting and considerations for young children’s theory of mind development
Authors: Martucci Katrina
Published: April 2014

Verbal interaction with others has been identified as an important forum for children’s developing understanding of the thoughts and feelings of others – their theory of mind. However, conversational interactions in settings and relationships important to young children beyond the home and family have received little attention in research literature. This qualitative study analyses conversation between preschool children and early childhood teachers as they engage in group-shared storybook reading. Findings show shared storybook reading in the preschool setting to be a rich source of conversation involving reference to mental states, in particular, affect, desire and cognitive states. In addition, teachers’ use of causal questioning may provide a salient forum for children to exercise and enhance their theory of mind abilities.
Can we teach parenting in our schools?
Authors: Noddings Nel
Published: April 2014

The quality of parenting is a crucial factor in children’s school success, and yet the schools teach almost nothing about parenting. This essay suggests ways in which we can teach about parenting without risking indoctrination or adding special courses.
Hidden Populations, Online Purposive Sampling, and External Validity
Authors: Barratt Monica J. , Ferris Jason A. , Lenton Simon
Published: April 2014

Online purposive samples have unknown biases and may not strictly be used to make inferences about wider populations, yet such inferences continue to occur. We compared the demographic and drug use characteristics of Australian ecstasy users from a probability (National Drug Strategy Household Survey, n = 726) and purposive sample (online survey conducted as part of a mixed-methods study of online drug discussion, n = 753) using nonparametric (bootstrap) and meta-analysis techniques. We found significant differences in demographics and drug use prevalence. Ideally, online purposive samples of hidden populations should be interpreted in conjunction with probability samples and ethnographic fieldwork.
Cognitive Style as Environmentally Sensitive Individual Differences in Cognition
Authors: Kozhevnikov Maria , Evans Carol , Kosslyn Stephen M.
Published: April 2014

The key aims of this article are to relate the construct of cognitive style to current theories in cognitive psychology and neuroscience and to outline a framework that integrates the findings on individual differences in cognition across different disciplines. First, we characterize cognitive style as patterns of adaptation to the external world that develop on the basis of innate predispositions, the interactions among which are shaped by changing environmental demands. Second, we show that research on cognitive style in psychology and cross-cultural neuroscience, on learning styles in education, and on decision-making styles in business and management all address the same phenomena. Third, we review cognitive-psychology and neuroscience research that supports the validity of the concept of cognitive style. Fourth, we show that various styles from disparate disciplines can be organized into a single taxonomy. This taxonomy allows us to integrate all the well-documented cognitive, learning, and decision-making styles; all of these style types correspond to adaptive systems that draw on different levels of information processing. Finally, we discuss how the proposed approach might promote greater coherence in research and application in education, in business and management, and in other disciplines.
Protective effect of truncated Na+/K+‐ATPase β on ischemia/reperfusion-induced renal injury in rats
Authors: Gong Huilin , Sun Jingjing , Xue Wujun , Tian Puxun , Ding Xiaoming , Yan Hang , Li Yang , Zheng Jin
Published: April 2014

Renal ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) is an important injury part of ischemic acute renal failure, and it is also the main factor that affects the early functional recovery and the long-term survival of transplanted kidney in renal transplantation. In this study, we cloned and expressed truncated Na+/K+‐ATPase β(tNKAβ) and demonstrated that tNKAβ could activate NKA α subunit and induce protective effect on human kidney-2(HK-2) cells via PKCɛ signal pathway. The half maximum effective concentrations (EC50) of tNKAβ were 0.24 µM. Furthermore, the application of EAVSLKPT (PKCɛ inhibitor) could abolish the protective effect of tNKAβ in HK-2 cells subjected to ischemia/reperfusion. To identify the protective effect of tNKAβ against the I/R injury in the kidney, Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with tNKAβ (75 mg/kg) for 2 h before ischemia. The tNKAβ-treated group demonstrated a significant improvement in renal function with a lower serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels on postoperative days 1–6. Renal sections obtained from rats of the I/R group showed serious renal injury which included degeneration of tubular structure, tubular dilation, swelling and necrosis, luminal congestion, and muddy brown casts formed by sloughing of severely damaged tubular epithelial cells. However, sections of rats that were administered with tNKAβ 2 h before reperfusion showed marked reduction of the histological features of renal injury compared with kidneys that were subjected to I/R only. In conclusion, the protective effects of tNKAβ against renal I/R injury have been evaluated for the first time, and these protective effects may occur via stimulation of PKCɛ pathways.
Cyclosporine A protects podocytes via stabilization of cofilin-1 expression in the unphosphorylated state
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaoyan , Li Xuejuan , Wang Xuejing , Wang Suxia , Ding Jie
Published: April 2014

Podocyte foot process (FP) is dysregulated in nephrotic syndrome. The effacement of podocyte FPs typically arises following perturbations in the actin cytoskeleton. Recent data suggest that the effects of calcineurin (CaN) inhibitor cyclosporine A (CsA) are independent of its effects on T-cells, and CsA has been identified as stabilizing the actin cytoskeleton through stabilizing synaptopodin in podocytes, and thereby directly reducing proteinuria. Other studies showed that CsA could regulate cofilin-1 directly within tubular epithelial cells. However, whether synaptopodin is the only target of CsA or whether the antiproteinuric role of CsA is played by regulating cofilin-1 in podocytes has not been studied. In the present study, changes in the expression and distribution of nephrin, synaptopodin, cofilin-1 and phosphorylated cofilin-1 (pho-cofilin-1) were detected in both puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) induced nephrotic rats treated with CsA and cultured podocytes exposed to PAN with/without CsA. Cofilin-1, synaptopodin mRNA was knocked down or combined by siRNA to investigate whether cofilin-1 was critical for the protective effect of CsA and whether the effect of CsA on cofilin-1 was independent of its effect on synaptopodin. We found that CsA reduced proteinuria and repaired FP effacement of PAN-induced nephropathy, restored expression of nephrin, synaptopodin, cofilin-1, pho-cofilin-1 both in vivo and in vitro. CsA also repaired actin cytoskeleton impaired by PAN in vitro. The protective effect of CsA was diminished when cofilin-1 was knocked down compared to negative control. Synaptopodin knocked down had no effect on cofilin-1. The protective effect of CsA decreased significantly when cofilin-1 and synaptopodin were simultaneously knocked down compared to only cofilin-1 knock down. In conclusion, the antiproteinuric effect of CsA is derived from the stabilization of the podocyte actin cytoskeleton by upregulating expression of cofilin-1, which was independent of its effect on synaptopodin.
The mobile phone in street protest: Texting, tweeting, tracking, and tracing
Authors: Neumayer Christina , Stald Gitte
Published: April 2014

This paper examines the role of information provision through mobile communication in mass street protest. The argument is based on two case studies: (a) the civic outrage of young people concerning the destruction of a youth centre in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2006 and (b) the use of mobile phones in antifascist protests in Dresden, Germany in 2011. The cases are analysed across three dimensions that are relevant to mobile communication tactics for providing information in protest: Actors, power relations between the actors, and goals. By identifying the affordances of the mobile phone for providing information across these dimensions, we argue that mobile communication can be appropriated to increase activists’ repertoire of actions, foster resistance, and shut down opportunities. The ways in which the affordances of mobile phones limit and empower resistance are located at the intersection of coordination, mobilisation, and the creation of counter narratives as well as of the surveillance and maintenance of existing power relations.
Mobile media and political participation: Defining and developing an emerging field
Authors: Martin Jason A.
Published: April 2014

Mobile media have become increasingly popular and important in recent years as a means of accessing political information and participating in politics and elections worldwide. However, the emergent field of mobile-focused political participation research requires further definition and development to more clearly address why and how mobile media are producing distinct consequences for political participation. To address this problem, this article uses interdisciplinary insights and a critical review of relevant literature to identify research opportunities that stand to advance mobile political communication theory. Contributions and limitations of studies focused on ICTs and political participation are reviewed and discussed. Analysis of studies focused on the political participation outcomes of mobile media use is synthesized with theory from user-focused mobile communication literature to highlight the unique qualities that distinguish mobile media and the implications of those distinguishing features for studying political participation. Recommendations are made for research directions that would further investigate the association of mobile media’s distinctive features with online and offline forms of political participation. This analysis indicates opportunities for scholars to unpack mobile media’s unique features in ways that potentially redefine political participation, and, accordingly, further the development of research questions and theories that investigate the relationship of mobile media and political participation. It is concluded that research is needed that explains mobile media use in finer detail, accounts for shifting conceptualizations of political participation, and contributes to the development of cross-cultural comparative frameworks.
The fourth screen: Mediatization and the smartphone
Authors: Miller James
Published: April 2014

Smartphones have enjoyed nearly unprecedented rates of adoption, and within a short time they have quickly become a uniquely important mobile communication device, especially among young people. While such observations are compelling, they lack a conceptual context. This paper theorizes the smartphone in the general terms of mediatization. Emphasis is on existing and emerging technologies of the mediatization process and the consequent “intercorporeal” relationships users construct with the smartphone. Empirical findings about the often intensely personal usage of the smartphone document this phenomenology. The paper concludes by introducing three provocative implications of new media like the smartphone, which are both indicators and motors of mediatization, as focuses for future study: technogenesis, or the coevolution of people and their information machines; embodied and extended cognition, the intensifying interweaving of mind and thinking machines; and the subjectifying process of individualization, ever more dependent on digital self-creation and self-maintenance.
Preparation and properties of layered carbon nanotube/polyazopyridine/nanodiamond composites
Authors: Ashraf Rozina , Kausar Ayesha , Siddiq Muhammad
Published: April 2014

A facile route has been opted to synthesize carbon nanotubes/polyazopyridine/nanodiamonds nanocomposites. In-situ oxidative polymerization of conducting monomer in presence of nanodiamonds (functional nanodiamonds and non-functional nanodiamonds) and carbon nanotubes (functional carbon nanotubes and non-functional carbon nanotubes) resulted in nanocomposites. The physical characteristics of resulting nanocomposites were studied using various techniques such as Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. Field emission scanning electron microscopy examination revealed the polymer fibrillars formed network structure with ordered arrangement of nanodiamonds. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy confirmed the structure of carbon nanotubes/polyazopyridine/nanodiamonds nanocomposite. Functional carbon nanotubes/polyazopyridine/functional nanodiamonds showed higher 10% degradation temperature (T10) 489℃ and glass transition temperature 229℃ relative to non-functional carbon nanotubes/nanodiamonds having T10 482℃ and glass transition temperature 221℃. Measured electrical conductivity (4.5 S cm−1) of functional carbon nanotubes/polyazopyridine/functional nanodiamonds nanocomposite was also remarkably improved by the incorporation of functional nanodiamonds relative to non-functional carbon nanotubes/polyazopyridine/non-functional nanodiamonds (3.9 S cm−1).
Cold spray coating: review of material systems and future perspectives
Authors: Moridi A. , Hassani-Gangaraj S. M. , Guagliano M. , Dao M.
Published: April 2014

Cold gas dynamic spray or simply cold spray (CS) is a process in which solid powders are accelerated in a de Laval nozzle toward a substrate. If the impact velocity exceeds a threshold value, particles endure plastic deformation and adhere to the surface. Different materials such as metals, ceramics, composites and polymers can be deposited using CS, creating a wealth of interesting opportunities towards harvesting particular properties. CS is a novel and promising technology to obtain surface coating, offering several technological advantages over thermal spray since it utilizes kinetic rather than thermal energy for deposition. As a result, tensile residual stresses, oxidation and undesired chemical reactions can be avoided. Development of new material systems with enhanced properties covering a wide range of required functionalities of surfaces and interfaces, from internal combustion engines to biotechnology, brought forth new opportunities to the cold spraying with a rich variety of material combinations. As applications multiply, the total number of studies on this subject is expanding rapidly and it is worth summarizing the current state of knowledge. This review covers different material systems that have been studied up to now with an emphasis on potential innovative applications. This includes metallic, ceramic and metal matrix composite (MMC) coatings and their applications. Polymer (both as substrate and coating) and metal embedment in the polymer are also covered. CS has emerged as a promising process to deposit nanostructured materials without significantly altering their microstructure whereas many traditional consolidation processes do. Relevant material systems containing nanostructured powders are also considered. A critical discussion on the future of this technology is provided at the final part of the paper focusing on the microstructural bonding mechanisms for those relatively less explored material systems. These include MMCs involving more than one constituent, ceramics, polymers and nanostructured powders. Future investigations are suggested especially to quantitatively link the process parameters and the behaviour of the material systems of interest during impact.
Unmet needs of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a qualitative study on patients and doctors
Authors: Wong Stalia SL , Abdullah Nurdiana , Abdullah Adina , Liew Su-May , Ching Siew-Mooi , Khoo Ee-Ming , Jiwa Moyez , Chia Yook-Chin
Published: April 2014

Background

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic disease with repeated exacerbations resulting in gradual debilitation. The quality of life has been shown to be poor in patients with COPD despite efforts to improve self-management. However, the evidence on the benefit of self-management in COPD is conflicting. Whether this could be due to other unmet needs of patients have not been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to explore unmet needs of patients from both patients and doctors managing COPD.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study with doctors and patients in Malaysia. We used convenience sampling to recruit patients until data saturation. Eighteen patients and eighteen doctors consented and were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and checked by the interviewers. Data were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results

The themes were similar for both the patients and doctors. Three main themes emerged: knowledge and awareness of COPD, psychosocial and physical impact of COPD and the utility of self-management. Knowledge about COPD was generally poor. Patients were not familiar with the term chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. The word ‘asthma’ was used synonymously with COPD by both patients and doctors. Most patients experienced difficulties in their psychosocial and physical functions such as breathlessness, fear and helplessness. Most patients were not confident in self-managing their illness and prefer a more passive role with doctors directing their care.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study showed that knowledge of COPD is generally poor. There was mislabelling of COPD as asthma by both patients and physicians. This could have resulted in the lack of understanding of treatment options, outcomes, and prognosis of COPD. The misconception that cough due to COPD was contagious, and breathlessness that resulted from COPD, had important physical and psychosocial impact, and could lead to social isolation. Most patients and physicians did not favour self-management approaches, suggesting innovations based on self-management may be of limited benefit.
Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of hospital health-care workers regarding influenza A/H1N1: a cross sectional survey
Authors: Albano Luciana , Matuozzo Anna , Marinelli Paolo , Di Giuseppe Gabriella
Published: April 2014

Background

To assess the knowledge, the attitudes, and the behaviour towards influenza A/H1N1 and the vaccination among health-care workers (HCWs).

Methods

A sample of HCWs was selected from a random sample of non-teaching public hospitals, located in the cities of Naples and Avellino (Italy), received a self-administered anonymous questionnaire including questions about socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge on modes of transmission and preventative measures, attitudes and behaviour relating to influenza A/H1N1.

Results

Only 36.1% correctly knew the main modes of transmission, and that HCWs are a risk category and this level of knowledge was significantly higher in HCWs having received information through scientific journals. A higher perceived risk of contracting influenza A/H1N1 has been observed in the HCWs more knowledgeable, in those considering influenza A/H1N1 a serious disease, and in those working in surgical wards. Only 16.7% have received the influenza A/H1N1 vaccination and HCWs with more fear of contracting influenza A/H1N1, those considering vaccine more useful and less dangerous were more likely to receive vaccine.

Conclusions

Education and communication strategies for improving the level of knowledge and for the immunization uptake regarding influenza A/H1N1 HCWs are strongly needed.
Antiretroviral drug expenditure, pricing and judicial demand: an analysis of federal procurement data in Brazil from 2004–2011
Authors: Luo Jing , Oliveira Maria A , Ramos Mariana BC , Maia Aurélio , Osorio-de-Castro Claudia GS
Published: April 2014

Background

Previous studies have described expenditures for antiretroviral (ARV) medicines in Brazil through 2005. While prior studies examined overall expenditures, they have not have analyzed drug procurement data in order to describe the role of court litigation on access and pricing.

Methods

ARV drug procurement from private sector sources for the years 2004–2011 was obtained through the general procurement database of the Brazilian Federal Government (SIASG). Procurement was measured in Defined Daily Doses (DDD) per 1000 persons-under-treatment per day. Expenditures and price per DDD were calculated and expressed in U.S. Dollars. Justifications for ARV purchases were examined in order to determine the relationship between health litigation and incorporation into Brazil’s national treatment guidelines.

Results

Drug procurement of ARVs from private sources underwent marked expansion in 2005, peaked in 2009, and stabilized to 2008 levels by 2011. Expenditures followed procurement curves. Medications which were procured for the first time after 2007 cost more than medicines which were introduced before 2007. Judicial actions initially resulted in purchases of newer medications for a select number of patients in Brazil but ultimately expanded availability to a larger population through incorporation into the national treatment guidelines.

Conclusions

Drug procurement and expenditures for ARVs in Brazil varied between 2004–2011. The procurement of some drugs from the private sector ceased after public manufacturers started producing them locally. Judicial demand has resulted in the incorporation of newer drugs into the national treatment guidelines. In order for the AIDS treatment program to remain sustainable, efforts should be pursued to reduce prices through generic drugs, price negotiation and other public health flexibilities such as compulsory licensing.