bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterectomy for treatment of small intestinal segmental volvulus secondary to dietary obstruction in a dog
Authors: Allan Ross M
Published: April 2015

A four‐year‐old 32 kg neutered female golden retriever dog presented with a two‐day history of intermittent vomiting, inappetence and lethargy whilst fed an exclusively bones and raw food diet. Clinical examination and radiography was consistent with intestinal obstruction, while biochemical and haematological samples were unremarkable. The dog recovered well after exploratory coeliotomy at which segmental small intestinal volvulus involving the jejunum was diagnosed and successfully managed with enterectomy. The presentation of segmental volvulus was atypical in this case due to its insidious onset in contrast to the dramatic findings at coeliotomy. Whilst segmental volvulus in the dog is a rare occurrence, this case serves to increase the description of its clinical onset as well as suggesting a likely dietary contribution in its occurrence.
Fast Sequential and Parallel Vertex Relabelings of Km,m
Authors: Kantabutra Sanpawat
Published: April 2015

Given an undirected, connected, simple graph G = (V,E), two vertex labelings LV and L'V of the vertices of G, and a label flip operation that interchanges a pair of labels on adjacent vertices, the Vertex Relabeling Problem is to transform G from LV into L'V using the flip operation. Agnarsson et al. showed solving the Vertex Relabeling Problem on arbitrary graphs can be done in θ(n2), where n is the number of vertices in G. In this article we study the Vertex Relabeling Problem on graphs Km,m and introduce the concept of parity and precise labelings. We show that, when we consider the parity labeling, the problem on graphs Km,m can be solved quickly in O(log m) time using m processors on an EREW PRAM. Additionally, we also show that the number of processors can be further reduced to [Formula: see text] in this case while the time complexity does not change. When the labeling is precise, the parallel time complexity increases by a factor of log m while the processor complexities remain m and [Formula: see text]. We also show that, when graphs are restricted to Km,m, this problem can be solved optimally in O(m) time when the labeling is parity, and can be solved in O(m log m) time when the labeling is precise, thereby improving the result in Agnarsson et al. for this specific case. Moreover, we generalize the result in the case of precise labeling to the cases when LV and L'V can be any configuration. In the end we give a conclusion and a list of some interesting open problems.
On Core Words and the Parikh Matrix Mapping
Authors: Teh Wen Chean
Published: April 2015

Core of a binary word, recently introduced, is a refined way to characterize binary words having the same Parikh matrices, as well as bridging the connection between binary words and partitions of natural numbers. This paper continues the work by generalizing to higher alphabet. The core of a word as well as the relatived version is the essential part of a word that captures the key information of the word from the perspective of its Parikh matrix. Various nice properties of the cores and some interesting results regarding the M-equivalence classes of ternary words are obtained.
DETECTION AND LOCALIZATION OF RETINAL EXUDATES FOR DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
Authors: MAHENDRAN G. , DHANASEKARAN R.
Published: April 2015

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina. Initially, the DR causes trivial changes in the retinal capillary. The symptoms can blur or distort patients' vision, which are the main causes of blindness. The DR is characterized by the presence of exudates at the nonproliferative stage. Once damaged by DR, the effects will be permanent and hence an earlier treatment is considered as vital. The presence of exudates is detected by ophthalmologists from the dilated retinal images, which are captured by dropping chemical solution into the patient's eye that leads to irritation. Therefore, there is a need for an alternative method toward the detection of exudates using image processing algorithms from the nondilated images. In this paper, an automated method is proposed for the detection of exudates using the fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering technique and reconstruction through a superimposition process in the absence of dilating patient's eye. The segmented result of FCM is compared with the result obtained using the Fuzzy K-Means segmentation algorithm. The sensitivity and specificity values for the exudates detection using the FCM algorithm are 87.38% and 96.94%, respectively. On the other hand, sensitivity and specificity values for the exudates detection using the K-Means algorithm are 75.04% and 93.73%, respectively.
Inorganic nitrate supplementation improves muscle oxygenation, O2uptake kinetics, and exercise tolerance at high but not low pedal rates
Authors: Bailey Stephen J. , Varnham Richard L. , DiMenna Fred J. , Breese Brynmor C. , Wylie Lee J. , Jones Andrew M.
Published: April 2015

We tested the hypothesis that inorganic nitrate (NO3−) supplementation would improve muscle oxygenation, pulmonary oxygen uptake (V̇o2) kinetics, and exercise tolerance (Tlim) to a greater extent when cycling at high compared with low pedal rates. In a randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study, seven subjects (mean ± SD, age 21 ± 2 yr, body mass 86 ± 10 kg) completed severe-intensity step cycle tests at pedal cadences of 35 rpm and 115 rpm during separate nine-day supplementation periods with NO3−-rich beetroot juice (BR) (providing 8.4 mmol NO3−/day) and placebo (PLA). Compared with PLA, plasma nitrite concentration increased 178% with BR ( P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in muscle oxyhemoglobin concentration ([O2Hb]), phase II V̇o2kinetics, or Tlim between BR and PLA when cycling at 35 rpm ( P > 0.05). However, when cycling at 115 rpm, muscle [O2Hb] was higher at baseline and throughout exercise, phase II V̇o2kinetics was faster (47 ± 16 s vs. 61 ± 25 s; P < 0.05), and Tlim was greater (362 ± 137 s vs. 297 ± 79 s; P < 0.05) with BR compared with PLA. These results suggest that short-term BR supplementation can increase muscle oxygenation, expedite the adjustment of oxidative metabolism, and enhance exercise tolerance when cycling at a high, but not a low, pedal cadence in healthy recreationally active subjects. These findings support recent observations that NO3−supplementation may be particularly effective at improving physiological and functional responses in type II muscle fibers.
miR-25 Modulates Invasiveness and Dissemination of Human Prostate Cancer Cells via Regulation of αv- and α6-Integrin Expression
Authors: Zoni E. , van der Horst G. , van de Merbel A.F. , Chen L. , Rane J.K. , Pelger R.C.M. , Collins A.T. , Visakorpi T. , Snaar-Jagalska B.E. , Maitland N.J. , van der Pluijm G.
Published: April 2015

Altered microRNA (miRNA; miR) expression is associated with tumor formation and progression of various solid cancers. A major challenge in miRNA expression profiling of bulk tumors is represented by the heterogeneity of the subpopulations of cells that constitute the organ, as well as the tumor tissue. Here, we analyzed the expression of miRNAs in a subpopulation of epithelial stem/progenitor-like cells in human prostate cancer [prostate cancer stem cell (PCSC)] and compared their expression profile to more differentiated cancer cells. In both cell lines and clinical prostate cancer specimens, we identified that miR-25 expression in PCSCs was low/absent and steadily increased during their differentiation into cells with a luminal epithelial phenotype. Functional studies revealed that overexpression of miR-25 in prostate cancer cell lines and selected subpopulation of highly metastatic and tumorigenic cells (ALDHhigh) strongly affected the invasive cytoskeleton, causing reduced migration in vitro and metastasis via attenuation of extravasation in vivo. Here, we show, for the first time, that miR-25 can act as a tumor suppressor in highly metastatic PCSCs by direct functional interaction with the 3′-untranslated regions of proinvasive αv- and α6-integrins. Taken together, our observations suggest that miR-25 is a key regulator of invasiveness in human prostate cancer through its direct interactions with αv- and α6-integrin expression. Cancer Res; 75(11); 2326–36. ©2015 AACR.
Lin28B/Let-7 Regulates Expression of Oct4 and Sox2 and Reprograms Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells to a Stem-like State
Authors: Chien Chian-Shiu , Wang Mong-Lien , Chu Pen-Yuan , Chang Yuh-Lih , Liu Wei-Hsiu , Yu Cheng-Chia , Lan Yuan-Tzu , Huang Pin-I. , Lee Yi-Yen , Chen Yi-Wei , Lo Wen-Liang , Chiou Shih-Hwa
Published: April 2015

Lin28, a key factor for cellular reprogramming and generation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), makes a critical contribution to tumorigenicity by suppressing Let-7. However, it is unclear whether Lin28 is involved in regulating cancer stem–like cells (CSC), including in oral squamous carcinoma cells (OSCC). In this study, we demonstrate a correlation between high levels of Lin28B, Oct4, and Sox2, and a high percentage of CD44+ALDH1+ CSC in OSCC. Ectopic Lin28B expression in CD44−ALDH1−/OSCC cells was sufficient to enhance Oct4/Sox2 expression and CSC properties, whereas Let7 co-overexpression effectively reversed these phenomena. We identified ARID3B and HMGA2 as downstream effectors of Lin28B/Let7 signaling in regulating endogenous Oct4 and Sox2 expression. Let7 targeted the 3′ untranslated region of ARID3B and HMGA2 and suppressed their expression, whereas ARID3B and HMGA2 increased the transcription of Oct4 and Sox2, respectively, through promoter binding. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed a direct association between ARID3B and a specific ARID3B-binding sequence in the Oct4 promoter. Notably, by modulating Oct4/Sox2 expression, the Lin28B–Let7 pathway not only regulated stemness properties in OSCC but also determined the efficiency by which normal human oral keratinocytes could be reprogrammed to iPSC. Clinically, a Lin28Bhigh-Let7low expression pattern was highly correlated with high levels of ARID3B, HMGA2, OCT4, and SOX2 expression in OSCC specimens. Taken together, our results show how Lin28B/Let7 regulates key cancer stem–like properties in oral squamous cancers. Cancer Res; 75(12); 2553–65. ©2015 AACR.
Hepcidin Regulation in Prostate and Its Disruption in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tesfay Lia , Clausen Kathryn A. , Kim Jin Woo , Hegde Poornima , Wang Xiaohong , Miller Lance D. , Deng Zhiyong , Blanchette Nicole , Arvedson Tara , Miranti Cindy K. , Babitt Jodie L. , Lin Herbert Y. , Peehl Donna M. , Torti Frank M. , Torti Suzy V.
Published: April 2015

Hepcidin is a circulating peptide hormone made by the liver that is a central regulator of systemic iron uptake and recycling. Here, we report that prostate epithelial cells also synthesize hepcidin, and that synthesis and secretion of hepcidin are markedly increased in prostate cancer cells and tissue. Prostatic hepcidin functions as an autocrine hormone, decreasing cell surface ferroportin, an iron exporter, increasing intracellular iron retention, and promoting prostate cancer cell survival. Synthesis of hepcidin in prostate cancer is controlled by a unique intersection of pathways that involves BMP4/7, IL6, Wnt, and the dual BMP and Wnt antagonist, SOSTDC1. Epigenetic silencing of SOSTDC1 through methylation is increased in prostate cancer and is associated with accelerated disease progression in patients with prostate cancer. These results establish a new connection between iron metabolism and prostate cancer, and suggest that prostatic dysregulation of hepcidin contributes to prostate cancer growth and progression. Cancer Res; 75(11); 2254–63. ©2015 AACR.
Silencing β3 Integrin by Targeted ECO/siRNA Nanoparticles Inhibits EMT and Metastasis of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Parvani Jenny G. , Gujrati Maneesh D. , Mack Margaret A. , Schiemann William P. , Lu Zheng-Rong
Published: April 2015

Metastatic breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subcategory of breast cancer and currently lacks well-defined molecular targets for effective targeted therapies. Disease relapse, metastasis, and drug resistance render standard chemotherapy ineffective in the treatment of TNBC. Because previous studies coupled β3 integrin (ITGB3) to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis, we exploited β3 integrin as a therapeutic target to treat TNBC by delivering β3 integrin siRNA via lipid ECO-based nanoparticles (ECO/siβ3). Treatment of TNBC cells with ECO/siβ3 was sufficient to effectively silence β3 integrin expression, attenuate TGFβ-mediated EMT and invasion, restore TGFβ-mediated cytostasis, and inhibit three-dimensional organoid growth. Modification of ECO/siβ3 nanoparticles with an RGD peptide via a PEG spacer enhanced siRNA uptake by post-EMT cells. Intravenous injections of RGD-targeted ECO/siβ3 nanoparticles in vivo alleviated primary tumor burden and, more importantly, significantly inhibited metastasis. In the span of 16 weeks of the experiments and observations, including primary tumor resection at week 9 and release from the treatment for 4 weeks, the mice bearing orthotopic, TGFβ-prestimulated MDA-MB-231 tumors that were treated with RGD-targeted ECO/siβ3 nanoparticles were free of metastases and relapse, in comparison with untreated mice. Collectively, these results highlight ECO/siβ3 nanoparticles as a promising therapeutic regimen to combat TNBC. Cancer Res; 75(11); 2316–25. ©2015 AACR.
O condômino antissocial sob a perspectiva civil-constitucional
Authors: Morsello Marco Fábio
Published: April 2015

A propriedade obriga, inserindo-se a função social em seu núcleo. A partir disso, procedendo-se à denominada interpretação da lei conforme a Constituição e levando-se em conta a força normativa desta, há possibilidade de exclusão do condômino com reiterado comportamento antissocial, colmatando-se lacuna, à míngua de norma expressa no Código Civil.
Perspectivas da integração europeia
Authors: Casella Paulo Borba
Published: April 2015

A integração europeia, apesar de problemas pontuais, é importante demais para ser negligenciada, pela prática relevante que trouxe para o continente europeu, superando séculos de guerra e conflitos, e também pelas mudanças na teoria e nas concepções acadêmicas a respeito do direito; nesta experiência europeia de integração se combinam a realidade de processo coerente e a recorrência de mitos duradouros, e todos esses aspectos somente podem ser compreendidos mediante contextualização histórica.
A proteção contra atos antissindicais à luz da liberdade sindical: introdução a uma contextualização políticojurídica
Authors: Batista Flávio Roberto
Published: April 2015

O artigo busca, a partir de um tratamento histórico da liberdade sindical, recuperar de maneira ampla as possibilidades de proteção contra atos antissindicais, contextualizando sua interpretação como parte de um arcabouço protetivo que deve, necessariamente, amparar as garantias de liberdade sindical para que a adoção de um pluralismo sindical irrestrito não provoque um aniquilamento do movimento operário.
Filosofia, história e direito no pensamento de Guido Fassò
Authors: Faralli Carla
Published: April 2015

A contribuição teórica de Guido Fassò trouxe valiosos avanços ao conhecimento da Filosofia do Direito, em especial por sua abordagem da história e das raízes das ideias. Recolhendo testemunho do valor de cada uma de suas obras, através de seus estudos sobre os gregos, os medievais, os modernos e os contemporâneos, a reconstrução de suas principais etapas de reflexão, por Carla Faralli, torna possível ao leitor acessar o universo do Autor, para considerar a presença dos temas da História, da Justiça, das Leis, do Jusnaturalismo, do Positivismo, da Democracia, da Razão, da Sociedade, da forma como ali estão claramente presentes.
Institutos e instituições: A instituição da propriedade e as organizações primárias
Authors: Conceição Pedro Augusto Simões da
Published: April 2015

O presente artigo constitui ensaio que propõe uma classificação de organizações primárias e secundárias, segundo a distinção entre instituições e institutos, com base no fato de que o Direito é capaz de institutar formalmente instituições sociais de caráter geral, dando-lhes estabilidade e capacidade operacional. A instituição social da propriedade é tomada como cerne para compreendermos por que empresas bem como o estado são as duas formas mais importantes de organizações primátias que derivam outras organizações secundárias mais complexas (hospitais, escolas, clubes e associações, museus, e outros). Para entender essa diferença, lanço mão, ainda, do exemplo da Linguagem enquanto instituição, em comparação ao uso da ‚vírgula’ enquanto instituto, bem como o próprio exemplo da propriedade, enquanto instituição social e sua definição formal, conforme o Direito.
Regulation of Smooth Muscle Dystrophin and Synaptopodin 2 Expression by Actin Polymerization and Vascular Injury
Authors: Turczyńska Karolina M. , Swärd Karl , Hien Tran Thi , Wohlfahrt Johan , Mattisson Ingrid Yao , Ekman Mari , Nilsson Johan , Sjögren Johan , Murugesan Vignesh , Hultgårdh-Nilsson Anna , Cidad Pilar , Hellstrand Per , Pérez-García M. Teresa , Albinsson Sebastian
Published: April 2015

Objective—

Actin dynamics in vascular smooth muscle is known to regulate contractile differentiation and may play a role in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. However, the list of genes regulated by actin polymerization in smooth muscle remains incomprehensive. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify actin-regulated genes in smooth muscle and to demonstrate the role of these genes in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle phenotype.

Approach and Results—

Mouse aortic smooth muscle cells were treated with an actin-stabilizing agent, jasplakinolide, and analyzed by microarrays. Several transcripts were upregulated including both known and previously unknown actin-regulated genes. Dystrophin and synaptopodin 2 were selected for further analysis in models of phenotypic modulation and vascular disease. These genes were highly expressed in differentiated versus synthetic smooth muscle and their expression was promoted by the transcription factors myocardin and myocardin-related transcription factor A. Furthermore, the expression of both synaptopodin 2 and dystrophin was significantly reduced in balloon-injured human arteries. Finally, using a dystrophin mutant
mdx
mouse and synaptopodin 2 knockdown, we demonstrate that these genes are involved in the regulation of smooth muscle differentiation and function.

Conclusions—

This study demonstrates novel genes that are promoted by actin polymerization, that regulate smooth muscle function, and that are deregulated in models of vascular disease. Thus, targeting actin polymerization or the genes controlled in this manner can lead to novel therapeutic options against vascular pathologies that involve phenotypic modulation of smooth muscle cells.
Safety and Efficacy of Resolute Zotarolimus-Eluting Stents Compared With Everolimus-Eluting Stents
Authors: Piccolo Raffaele , Stefanini Giulio G. , Franzone Anna , Spitzer Ernest , Blöchlinger Stefan , Heg Dik , Jüni Peter , Windecker Stephan
Published: April 2015

Background—

Although new-generation drug-eluting stents represent the standard of care among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, there remains debate about differences in efficacy and the risk of stent thrombosis between the Resolute zotarolimus-eluting stent (R-ZES) and the everolimus-eluting stent (EES). The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the R-ZES compared with EES in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results—

A systematic literature search of electronic resources was performed using specific search terms until September 2014. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed comparing clinical outcomes between patients treated with R-ZES and EES up to maximum available follow-up. The primary efficacy end point was target-vessel revascularization. The primary safety end point was definite or probable stent thrombosis. Secondary safety end points were cardiac death and target-vessel myocardial infarction. Five trials were identified, including a total of 9899 patients. Compared with EES, R-ZES had similar risks of target-vessel revascularization (risk ratio [RR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90–1.24;
P
=0.50), definite or probable stent thrombosis (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.86–1.85;
P
=0.24), cardiac death (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.79–1.30;
P
=0.91), and target-vessel myocardial infarction (RR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.89–1.36;
P
=0.39). Moreover, R-ZES and EES had similar risks of late definite or probable very late stent thrombosis (RR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.53–2.11;
P
=0.87). No evidence of significant heterogeneity was observed across trials.

Conclusions—

R-ZES and EES provide similar safety and efficacy among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.
State Management of River Dikes in Early China: New Sources on the Environmental History of the Central Yangzi Region
Authors: Lander Brian
Published: April 2015

While it is generally believed that the agricultural colonization of the middle Yangzi wetlands began in Tang-Song times, newly discovered texts show that the early Han state administered river dikes in the region. The texts, which were written between 192 and 121 bce, calculate dike sizes in order to estimate corvée requirements for dike maintenance and discuss the area of new farmland to be created. Our picture of the early history of the Yangzi region has been distorted by the northern focus of early texts, but archaeological discoveries are correcting this bias and suggest that the conversion of the Central Yangzi lowlands to farmland began many centuries earlier than previously believed. 

On pense en général que la mise en valeur agricole des marais du moyen Yangzi a commencé sous les Tang et les Song. Or, des textes récemment découverts montrent que dès le début des Han l’État administrait des digues dans la région. Rédigés entre 192 et 121 avant notre ère, ces textes contiennent des calculs sur les dimensions des digues servant à évaluer les besoins en travail corvéable pour leur entretien, ainsi que des considérations sur la superficie de nouvelles terres cultivées à ouvrir. Alors que nous nous faisions une image de l’histoire ancienne du bassin du Yangzi déformée par les textes anciens, qui privilégient la Chine du Nord, les découvertes archéologiques remettent les choses en perspective et suggèrent que la mise en valeur des basses terres du moyen Yangzi a démarré de nombreux siècles plus tôt qu’on ne croyait.
Massonia obermeyerae (Asparagaceae, Scilloideae), a new species from South Africa
Authors: Martínez-Azorín Mario , Dold Anthony P. , Pinter Michael , Slade Julian M. , Crespo Manuel B. , Milkuhn Gottfried , Wetschnig Wolfgang
Published: April 2015

As part of a taxonomic revision of the genus Massonia, a new species, M. obermeyerae is here described from South Africa. This species is at first sight similar to M. depressa, but it differs in the inflorescence and flower morphology, as well as its distribution. A complete morphological description of the new species and data on biology, habitat, and distribution are presented. Comments on typification of Massonia grandiflora, a name that has been misapplied to M. obermeyerae, are also presented, including the identification of a previously designated lectotype and a newly selected epitype.
Molecular and morphological assessment of Delma australis Kluge (Squamata: Pygopodidae), with a description of a new species from the biodiversity ‘hotspot’ of southwestern Western Australia
Authors: MARYAN BRAD , BRENNAN IAN G. , ADAMS MARK , APLIN KEN P.
Published: April 2015

The Australian pygopodid lizard genus Delma is characterised by morphologically conservative but genetically divergent lineages and species. An initial assessment of molecular and morphological variation in Delma australis Kluge, 1974 throughout its main distribution in Western and South Australia reveals at least two undescribed species that are presently included under this epithet. Here we describe the most distinctive and easily diagnosed taxon of these, D. hebesa sp. nov., from the proteaceous scrub and mallee heath on the south coast sandplains of southwestern Western Australia. We also foreshadow the need for an expanded genetic framework to assist in unequivocally diagnosing additional candidate species in D. australis, which is redescribed herein and shown to be monophyletic for those specimens sampled, albeit displaying geographic variation in a range of molecular and morphological characters. Delma hebesa sp. nov. differs from all other described Delma species, including regional populations of D. australis, by a combination of molecular genetic markers, colouration and scalation. Based on phylogenetic affinities and shared morphologies, a D. australis species-group is proposed to accommodate D. australis, D. torquata and the new species described herein. The addition of another new vertebrate species from southwestern Western Australia, recognised globally as a biodiversity ‘hotspot’, underlines our lack of understanding of genetic diversity and evolutionary histories in this biodiverse region.
The identity of the semiterrestrial crab Terrathelphusa kuchingensis (Nobili, 1901) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Gecarcinucidae), with descriptions of four new species from southwestern Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia
Authors: GRINANG JONGKAR , NG PETER K. L.
Published: April 2015

Four new species of semiterrestrial gecarcinucid crabs are described from limestone and sandstone habitats in southwestern Sarawak, Malaysia: Terrathelphusa aglaia n. sp., T. cerina n. sp., T. kundong n. sp., and T. mas n. sp. The taxonomy of T. kuchingensis (Nobili, 1901) is discussed, its precise identity ascertained from fresh material, and its actual distribution determined. This increases the number of Terrathelphusa species in Borneo to eight.
New species of Medetera (Diptera: Dolichopodidae, Medeterinae) from Tibet
Authors: TANG CHUFEI , WANG BAOHAI , YANG DING
Published: April 2015

Only one species of Medetera Fischer von Waldheim was known to occur previously in Tibet. Here the following three species of Medetera are described as new to science: Medetera exornata sp. nov., Medetera furva sp. nov. and Medetera sinuosa sp. nov. The first two species belong to the apicalis group, and the last one belongs to the diadema-veles group. A key to the species of Medetera from the Himalayas is provided.
Building Better Models
Authors: Hindman Matthew
Published: April 2015

Analytic techniques developed for big data have much broader applications in the social sciences, outperforming standard regression models even—or rather especially—in smaller datasets. This article offers an overview of machine learning methods well-suited to social science problems, including decision trees, dimension reduction methods, nearest neighbor algorithms, support vector models, and penalized regression. In addition to novel algorithms, machine learning places great emphasis on model checking (through holdout samples and cross-validation) and model shrinkage (adjusting predictions toward the mean to reduce overfitting). This article advocates replacing typical regression analyses with two different sorts of models used in concert. A multi-algorithm ensemble approach should be used to determine the noise floor of a given dataset, while simpler methods such as penalized regression or decision trees should be used for theory building and hypothesis testing.
The Dynamics of Issue Frame Competition in Traditional and Social Media
Authors: Guggenheim Lauren , Jang S. Mo , Bae Soo Young , Neuman W. Russell
Published: April 2015

This study examines the dynamics of the framing of mass shooting incidences in the U.S. occurring in the traditional commercial online news media and Twitter. We demonstrate that there is a dynamic, reciprocal relationship between the attention paid to different aspects of mass shootings in online news and in Twitter: tweets tend to be responsive to traditional media reporting, but traditional media framing of these incidents also seems to resonate from public framing in the Twitterverse. We also explore how different frames become prominent as they compete among media as time passes after shooting events. Finally, we find that key differences emerge between norms of journalistic routine and how users rely on Twitter to express their reactions to these tragic shooting incidents.
Content Analysis and the Algorithmic Coder
Authors: Zamith Rodrigo , Lewis Seth C.
Published: April 2015

To deal with ever-larger datasets, media scholars are increasingly using computational analytic methods. This article focuses on how the traditional (manual) approach to conducting a content analysis—a primary method in the study of media messages—is being reconfigured, assesses what is gained and lost in turning to computational solutions, and builds on a “hybrid” approach to content analysis. We argue that computational methods are most fruitful when variables are readily identifiable in texts and when source material is easily parsed. Manual methods, though, are most appropriate for complex variables and when source material is not well digitized. These modes can be effectively combined throughout the process of content analysis to facilitate expansive and powerful analyses that are reliable and meaningful.
Is Bigger Always Better? Potential Biases of Big Data Derived from Social Network Sites
Authors: Hargittai Eszter
Published: April 2015

This article discusses methodological challenges of using big data that rely on specific sites and services as their sampling frames, focusing on social network sites in particular. It draws on survey data to show that people do not select into the use of such sites randomly. Instead, use is biased in certain ways yielding samples that limit the generalizability of findings. Results show that age, gender, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, online experiences, and Internet skills all influence the social network sites people use and thus where traces of their behavior show up. This has implications for the types of conclusions one can draw from data derived from users of specific sites. The article ends by noting how big data studies can address the shortcomings that result from biased sampling frames.
‘Wrath from the Gods’: Traditional Institutions and Electoral Politics in Bali
Authors: Gwaibi Numvi Wallace
Published: April 2015

This paper examines the 2013 municipal elections in Bali subdivision, North West Cameroon. The ethnography utilises participant observation, semi-structured interviews, document analyses and so forth to unearth strategies employed by the CPDM and SDF parties to retain and/or regain Bali Council. The CPDM, in collusion with traditional authorities, was accused of utilising a sacred cult ‘Voma’ to intimidate voters. The SDF was accused of importing witchdoctors from Nigeria and Pygmies from East Cameroon to cast magical spells on the population, to make the people vote for it. The CPDM won a landslide, but struggled to dispel rumours about the impact and consequences of Voma.
Individual and contextual determinants of victimisation in Brazilian urban centres: A multilevel approach
Authors: Moura Klebson , Neto Raul Silveira
Published: April 2015

This article analyses the influence of both contextual and individual urban characteristics on violence victimisation in Brazilian cities. A multilevel approach is used to capture the effects of the urban contextual variables with respect to the probability of becoming a robbery victim in Brazilian urban centres. The results demonstrate that factors associated with social context, such as proportions of cities’ recent migrants or female-headed households, affect victimisation, as do individual characteristics. Furthermore, based on an analysis of the intra-class correlation coefficients, the context produces a non-negligible amount of variability.
Role of temperatures and fiber orientations on transverse shear damping of polypropylene honeycomb sandwich structures
Authors: Nagasankar P , Balasivanandha Prabu S , Velmurugan R
Published: April 2015

This paper reports the effect of temperatures (30℃ to 80℃, with incremental steps of 5℃) and orientations of the glass fibers (0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90°) on the dynamic properties (the loss factors and the natural frequencies) of polypropylene honeycomb sandwich composites. The impulse technique has been employed to calculate the natural frequency and loss factor of the sandwich specimens under different temperatures. The natural frequency and loss factor values have also been calculated theoretically using Blevins's formulae for natural frequency, and Yim et al.'s transverse shear effect, respectively. The values of damping loss factor and the natural frequency/stiffness are the maximum at 0° fiber orientation in the skins of the sandwich specimen. The loss factor of the same oriented specimen increases sharply with the increase in temperature. The main reasons for the above are the higher in-plane strength of skins and lower transverse shear strength of the honeycomb core. Hence, the 0° fiber oriented sandwich specimen is more desirable than the other fiber oriented specimens at all temperatures. A good agreement is observed between the experimental and theoretical values.
Monitoring the process of densification of 3D and 4D (tridirectional and tetradirectional) carbon/carbon composites
Authors: Barbosa CAL , Pardini LC , Botelho EC
Published: April 2015

Carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites can be made by iterative liquid impregnation or gas phase carbon deposition routes. In both cases, at the final processing stage the carbon fiber is embedded in carbon matrix which results in unique properties such as low density, high thermal conductivity and thermal shock resistance, low thermal expansion and high modulus, in relation to other refractory materials. In the present study assembled three-directional and four-directional preforms, having 50% volume of pores, were densified by iterative cycles of thermoset resin impregnation followed by pyrolysis under inert atmosphere, until appropriate densities were achieved. The thermoset resin is converted in a carbon matrix during pyrolysis. The iterative manufacturing process of the carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites is evaluated by means of nondestructive techniques based on X-ray computed tomography and electrical resistivity. X-ray computed tomography gives a general mapping view of the filling pores of the preforms which impacts results of the electrical resistivity. After six processing cycles and heat treatments up to 2000℃, the final densities of the three-directional and four-directional carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites were 1.16 g/cm3 and an electrical resistivity of ∼0.07 Ωm. The configuration of preforms, three-directional or four-directional, did not alter the densification profile, in terms of increasing density and reducing porosity during the processing cycles.
Met Expectations and Satisfaction with Duration
Authors: Gregory Emily F. , Butz Arlene M. , Ghazarian Sharon R. , Gross Susan M. , Johnson Sara B.
Published: April 2015

Background:

Breastfeeding expectations predict breastfeeding duration. The extent to which expectations for duration are met remains unknown.

Objectives:

To evaluate prospective measures of expected breastfeeding duration, changes in expectations over time, and factors associated with meeting expectations.

Methods:

The Infant Feeding Practices Study II followed women from late pregnancy to 1 year postpartum. Expected breastfeeding duration was assessed 5 times. Logistic regression identified factors associated with met prenatal expectations. Subgroup analysis compared met prenatal expectations to satisfaction with breastfeeding duration.

Results:

One-year postpartum, 34.7% of 1802 participants had met prenatal expected breastfeeding duration, and 23.9% were still breastfeeding. Fifty-eight percent of women met expectations stated at 7 months postpartum. Modifiable risk factors associated with meeting prenatal expectations included early regular breast pump use (odds ratio [OR], 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-2.07). Return to work was negatively associated with met expectations (return by 6 weeks postpartum: OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.33-0.71; later return: OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.56-0.95). Among those who reported on satisfaction with duration (n = 1226), 40.4% were satisfied. Satisfaction was associated with meeting expectations (OR, 10.56; 95% CI, 7.67-14.55), but expectation and satisfaction measures were not equivalent. Elevated body mass index and depressive symptoms at 2 months postpartum were negatively associated with both measures.

Conclusion:

Most participants did not meet prenatal or postnatal expectations for breastfeeding duration and were unsatisfied with duration. However, at 12 months, more participants felt they had met their expectations and were satisfied with their breastfeeding duration than were actually breastfeeding. Therefore, women may perceive greater breastfeeding progress than suggested by Healthy People 2020 benchmarks.
Economic Development and Civic Engagement in Latin America
Authors: Gundelach Birte
Published: April 2015

Whereas research on civic engagement with a European or North American focus usually assumes that a culture of participation thrives in healthy political and economic surroundings, the validity of this proposition has been questioned in the Latin American context. Instead, existing literature suggests that disadvantageous political and economic conditions spur participation in Latin America. In contrast to previous studies that investigate development and engagement with a focus on a specific local or national context in Latin America, this article takes a broad comparative perspective to test whether this—at first glance—counterintuitive result holds for the whole region. Multilevel analysis of 21 Central and South American countries corroborates the inverse association between development and engagement previously observed in selected countries. Further insights show that particularly affluent individuals and those who are rather comfortable with national and local politics are civically engaged in economically adverse contexts.
One-step and template-free synthesis of itaconic acid–doped polyaniline nanorods in aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Yanmin , Chen Kai , Li Tingxi , Li Huimin
Published: April 2015

With itaconic acid as dopant and (NH4)2S2O8 as oxidant, itaconic acid–doped polyaniline (PANI) nanorods were prepared by one-step and template-free polymerization method. The influence of the polymerization parameters such as the oxidant–aniline molar ratio, the oxidant concentration, the molar ratio of itaconic acid and aniline, and the itaconic acid concentration on the yield and conductivity of PANI was investigated by single factor analysis method. The yield and conductivity of itaconic acid–doped PANI were 112.5% and 2.06 × 10−3 S cm−1, respectively, when synthesized under the optimal reaction condition at room temperature. From the Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet visible spectra, it can be demonstrated that PANI was successfully doped by itaconic acid and the conductivity was maximum when the ratio of benzene ring and quinine ring was 3:1 and the doping ratio of quinine ring reached 50%. Microstructure images showed that PANI has nanosized rod-like morphology.
Lords and order: Credible rulers and state failure
Authors: Dimick Matthew
Published: April 2015

Why do states fail? Why do failed states persist without collapsing into complete anarchy? This paper argues that in response to insurgency or weakened state capacity, the best way for rulers to sustain their rule may be, paradoxically, to reduce the amount of political protection they provide to clients or citizens. This behavior recognizes and helps explain a puzzling feature of failed states, namely that central government often functions even when political disorder prevails. To evaluate this argument, the paper analyzes the case of King Stephen’s reign in medieval England. In response to a challenge to his succession, King Stephen dramatically decentralized government, a decision which has long puzzled historians. In addition, although far removed historically from contemporary cases, the reign of King Stephen exhibits just those characteristics of modern, failed states: insurgency, civil war, territorial fragmentation, increasing disorder and violence (even between adherents of the same side of the civil conflict), and yet the persistence of some amount of centralized rule.
Validating the Measurement of Social Capital in Bangladesh
Authors: Story William T. , Taleb Fahmida , Ahasan S.M. Monirul , Ali Nabeel A.
Published: April 2015

Despite the growing evidence linking social capital to improvements in health and health behaviors, reliable measures of social capital are lacking in low-income countries. To accurately measure social capital in new contexts, there is a need to validate social capital survey questions in each new cultural setting. In this article, we examine the content validity of the measurement of social capital in Bangladesh using qualitative methods. In December 2012, we conducted four focus group discussions and 32 cognitive interviews in one rural subdistrict (Durgapur) and one urban slum (Mirpur). We used the findings from the focus groups and cognitive interviews to create a new social capital survey instrument that can be used by health and development organizations in Bangladesh. Furthermore, in this article, we provide insight into social capital survey research in general, including suggestions for the measurement of group membership, social support, collective action, and social trust.
Exploring Important Influences on the Healthfulness of Prostate Cancer Survivors’ Diets
Authors: Coa Kisha I. , Smith Katherine C. , Klassen Ann C. , Thorpe Roland J. , Caulfield Laura E.
Published: April 2015

A cancer diagnosis is often conceptualized as a teachable moment when individuals might be motivated to make lifestyle changes. Many prostate cancer survivors, however, do not adhere to dietary guidelines. In this article, we explore how cancer affected prostate cancer survivors’ diets and identify important influences on diet. Twenty prostate cancer survivors completed three 24-hour dietary recalls and an in-depth dietary interview. We analyzed interviews using a constant comparison approach, and dietary recall data quantitatively to assess quality and qualitatively to identify food choice patterns. Most men reported not making dietary changes following their cancer diagnosis but did express an interest in healthy eating, primarily to facilitate weight loss. Men portrayed barriers to healthy eating that often outweighed their motivation to eat healthy. Public health programs should consider alternative ways of framing healthy eating programs for prostate cancer survivors that might be more effective than a cancer-specific focus.
“There Are No Known Benefits . . .”
Authors: Opsal Tara , Wolgemuth Jennifer , Cross Jennifer , Kaanta Tanya , Dickmann Ellyn , Colomer Soria , Erdil-Moody Zeynep
Published: April 2015

Institutional review boards (IRBs) are responsible for weighing the risks and benefits of research participation. Qualitative researchers note numerous instances where IRB ethical frameworks fail to align with the ethics of their research projects and point out that IRB understandings of the benefits and risks of research often differ from those of the participants they seek to protect. This qualitative cross-case research investigates participants’ interview experiences in six qualitative studies that differed in their methods, subject of focus, and populations. Our findings indicate that contemporary IRBs’ use of population “vulnerability” and topic “sensitivity” to assess project risk does not adequately determine the benefits, risks, or ethicality of research. We recommend that IRBs treat as real the evidence for benefits in qualitative research, recognize that sensitivity and vulnerability do not predict risk, and encourage researchers to attend to relationships in their projects.
Automatic product conceptual optimization based on object-oriented performance components and graph grammars
Authors: Li Yuliang , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2015

Compared with parameter uncertainty, model form uncertainty is difficult and expensive to alleviate due to limited design information at the early product development stage, but it may have significant impacts on performances of complex products. In this article, an optimal configuration of performance models based on graph grammars is presented to seek a solution for simultaneously resolving model form and parameter uncertainties at the product conceptual design stage. First, a hybrid performance component database is built using object-oriented modeling method taking account of the model evolution history; second, a function structure model is taken as the reference template to dynamically generate system models driven by graph grammars rules derived from product configuration and layout design and matching of component interface parameters with flows in the function structure model; third, a meta-model-based method is adopted to transform the performance component graph into mathematical models including the optimization objective function and associated constraints; fourth, an optimization procedure combined with performance simulation framework is invoked to solve the optimization problem. The final result is a solution that includes the optimal configuration of performance components and optimal design parameters, and thus, much larger design space than traditional mere optimization of design variables is explored. The method is tested by the optimal conceptual design of tank movement systems, and comparisons of deign results obtained by the proposed method and traditional optimization method are conducted to illustrate the efficacy of the method.
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Orthosis Augmented by Either Stretching or Stretching and Strengthening for Stage II Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction
Authors: Houck Jeff , Neville Christopher , Tome Josh , Flemister Adolph
Published: April 2015

Background:

The value of strengthening and stretching exercises combined with orthosis treatment in a home-based program has not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of augmenting orthosis treatment with either stretching or a combination of stretching and strengthening in participants with stage II tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction (TPTD).

Methods:

Participants included 39 patients with stage II TPTD who were recruited from a medical center and then randomly assigned to a strengthening or stretching treatment group. Excluding 3 dropouts, there were 19 participants in the strengthening group and 17 in the stretching group. The stretching treatment consisted of a prefabricated orthosis used in conjunction with stretching exercises. The strengthening treatment consisted of a prefabricated orthosis used in conjunction with the stretching and strengthening exercises. The main outcome measures were self-report (ie, Foot Function Index and Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment) and isometric deep posterior compartment strength. Two-way analysis of variance was used to test for differences between groups at 6 and 12 weeks after starting the exercise programs.

Results:

Both groups significantly improved in pain and function over the 12-week trial period. The self-report measures showed minimal differences between the treatment groups. There were no differences in isometric deep posterior compartment strength.

Conclusions:

A moderate-intensity, home-based exercise program was minimally effective in augmenting orthosis wear alone in participants with stage II TPTD.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, prospective randomized study.