bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of Saudi English Language Teachers in Reading Comprehension Classes
Authors: Masadeh Thouqan Saleem Yakoub
Published: December 2015

The study identified how Saudi schoolteachers perceive reading and comprehension. It also investigated the effect of teachers’ willingness and lesson presentation on learners’ achievement. A descriptive approach was used, and the sample consisted of 56 teachers. The lesson plan in Broughton et al.’s study was adopted as a model lesson plan. Respondents’ responses revealed their poor awareness of the most important activities that facilitate or hinder comprehension. Furthermore, teachers’ willingness and readiness to teach reading were not sufficient to yield competent teachers. It concluded that students were not given sufficient time and assigned to cleverly chosen roles to better understand the text. Teachers, however, should reconsider their daily lesson plans through which reading lessons are executed, taking into account students’ culture, interests, feelings, and so forth. Finally, other researchers were recommended to investigate the differences in students’ achievement levels due to the adoption of the lesson plan proposed by Broughton et al.
A Tale of Two Surges
Authors: McHugh Kelly
Published: December 2015

This manuscript compares and contrasts the political obstacles faced by Bush and Obama when they sought to deepen U.S. involvement in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. I compare their efforts in three areas. First, I examine their attempts to rally public support for a surge by “going public” and making high-profile policy speeches. Second, I examine their attempts to silence congressional critics, by framing the choice as averting defeat. Finally, I examine each president’s attempt to quell a rebellion inside his administration. Although Bush failed to rally public support, he was able to implement the surge because he succeeded in unifying Republicans in support of his policy, and dividing and silencing congressional Democrats. Obama succeeded because he was able to successfully shape public opinion. This, in turn, allowed him to withstand criticism from hawkish Republicans in Congress and also rally the support of dovish Democratic elites.
The Flipped Class
Authors: Sherrow Tammy , Lang Brenda , Corbett Rod
Published: December 2015

Business, like many other programs in higher education, continues to rely largely on traditional classroom environments. In this article, another approach to teaching and learning, the flipped classroom, is explored. After a review of relevant literature, the authors present their experience with the flipped classroom approach to teaching and learning in a postsecondary business communication course. Instructor and student experiences with the flipped classroom are presented. Readily available tools that made the implementation of the flipped classroom approach more feasible are discussed.
Pevonedistat, a NEDD8-activating enzyme inhibitor, is active in mantle cell lymphoma and enhances rituximab activity in vivo
Authors: Czuczman Natalie M. , Barth Matthew J. , Gu Juan , Neppalli Vishala , Mavis Cory , Frys Sarah E. , Hu Qiang , Liu Song , Klener Pavel , Vockova Petra , Czuczman Myron S. , Hernandez-Ilizaliturri Francisco J.
Published: December 2015

Key Points

Pevonedistat (MLN4924), a NEDD8-activating enzyme inhibitor, is active in MCL preclinical models and potentiates rituximab activity. Our findings support further investigation of pevonedistat with or without rituximab in the treatment of MCL.
Hemopexin therapy reverts heme-induced proinflammatory phenotypic switching of macrophages in a mouse model of sickle cell disease
Authors: Vinchi Francesca , Costa da Silva Milene , Ingoglia Giada , Petrillo Sara , Brinkman Nathan , Zuercher Adrian , Cerwenka Adelheid , Tolosano Emanuela , Muckenthaler Martina U.
Published: December 2015

Key Points

Heme and iron induce macrophage phenotypic switching toward an M1 proinflammatory phenotype. By scavenging free heme, hemopexin reverts heme-induced proinflammatory activation of macrophages in a mouse model of sickle cell disease.
A people-centric framework for mobile augmented reality systems (MARS) design: ArcHIVE 4Any
Authors: Kavakli Manolya
Published: December 2015

This paper introduces a generic people-centric mobile augmented reality systems (MARS) framework to leverage the application system design and implementation. Proposed 4Any framework could be used as a meta architecture to guide the development of MARS. The main challenge in MARS design is providing a generic framework flexible enough to allow rapid development of applications to be used by different types of people. The paper demonstrates how 4Any framework has been applied in an ongoing project ArcHIVE 4Any using two field studies in Chalon sur Saone, France and Anzac Cove, Gallipoli, Turkey. ArcHIVE 4Any was implemented by using Django framework. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate the potential of the framework in terms of flexibility of system architecture and usability in recording landmarks in a number of heritage sites. In 4Any Framework we assume learning has to occur anywhere, anyway, anytime for anybody. The actors in this framework are specified as Instructor, Learner, Device and Programmer. Each actor initiates an action with respective entities Information, Media, Location and Time. What mediates each action is the metadata layer between the entities and people profiles using the same system. Metadata layer provides mapping between the underlying structures and definitions of associated content between the actors and entities. This way, each user sees a different face of the same system. The 4Any system architecture separates the system into four modules: Instruction, Learning, Device and Coding. There are 2 main sides of this framework to support learning anytime, anywhere, anyway by anybody: Pedagogical and Technological. The framework is composed of four layers that correspond to each row: Actors, Profiles, Metadata to be shared, and Scenario. With the rapid development of mobile technologies, new features of mobile devices will become available. The usability test results with ten Instructor profiles suggest that 4Any framework will be able serve as a vehicle for people-centric computing, to be used by anybody, anywhere, anyway, and anytime. Thus, the paper contributes to the knowledge in Human Centric Computing by taking into account multiple users and presenting different faces to each user demonstrating an example of the People Centric Computing paradigm.
WHAMY is a novel actin polymerase promoting myoblast fusion, macrophage cell motility and sensory organ development in Drosophila
Authors: Brinkmann Klaus , Winterhoff Moritz , Önel Susanne-Filiz , Schultz Jörg , Faix Jan , Bogdan Sven
Published: December 2015

Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome proteins (WASPs) are nucleation-promoting factors (NPF) that differentially control the Arp2/3 complex. In Drosophila, three different family members, SCAR (also known as WAVE), WASP and WASH (also known as CG13176), have been analyzed so far. Here, we characterized WHAMY, the fourth Drosophila WASP family member. whamy originated from a wasp gene duplication and underwent a sub-neofunctionalization. Unlike WASP, we found that WHAMY specifically interacted with activated Rac1 through its two CRIB domains, which were sufficient for targeting WHAMY to lamellipodial and filopodial tips. Biochemical analyses showed that WHAMY promoted exceptionally fast actin filament elongation, although it did not activate the Arp2/3 complex. Loss- and gain-of-function studies revealed an important function of WHAMY in membrane protrusions and cell migration in macrophages. Genetic data further implied synergistic functions between WHAMY and WASP during morphogenesis. Double mutants were late-embryonic lethal and showed severe defects in myoblast fusion. Trans-heterozygous mutant animals showed strongly increased defects in sensory cell fate specification. Thus, WHAMY is a novel actin polymerase with an initial partitioning of ancestral WASP functions in development and subsequent acquisition of a new function in cell motility during evolution.
Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy mutations impair TRC40-mediated targeting of emerin to the inner nuclear membrane
Authors: Pfaff Janine , Rivera Monroy Jhon , Jamieson Cara , Rajanala Kalpana , Vilardi Fabio , Schwappach Blanche , Kehlenbach Ralph H.
Published: December 2015

Emerin is a tail-anchored protein that is found predominantly at the inner nuclear membrane (INM), where it associates with components of the nuclear lamina. Mutations in the emerin gene cause Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD), an X-linked recessive disease. Here, we report that the TRC40/GET pathway for post-translational insertion of tail-anchored proteins into membranes is involved in emerin-trafficking. Using proximity ligation assays, we show that emerin interacts with TRC40 in situ. Emerin expressed in bacteria or in a cell-free lysate was inserted into microsomal membranes in an ATP- and TRC40-dependent manner. Dominant-negative fragments of the TRC40-receptor proteins WRB and CAML (also known as CAMLG) inhibited membrane insertion. A rapamycin-based dimerization assay revealed correct transport of wild-type emerin to the INM, whereas TRC40-binding, membrane integration and INM-targeting of emerin mutant proteins that occur in EDMD was disturbed. Our results suggest that the mode of membrane integration contributes to correct targeting of emerin to the INM.
A Phenazaborin-Based High-Efficiency Blue Delayed Fluorescence Material
Authors: Park In Seob , Numata Masaki , Adachi Chihaya , Yasuda Takuma
Published: December 2015

A highly efficient blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) material based on phenazaborin and spiroacridan units was developed. A blue-emitting organic light-emitting diode containing the phenazaborin derivative as a TADF emitter exhibited a high external electroluminescence quantum efficiency of 18.2%.
High-Frequency EPR Studies on Polymer Chain Morphology in Dip-Coated Films of Poly(3-hexylthiophene)/Fullerene Bulk-Heterojunctions
Authors: Matsuoka Hideto , Mizutani Shinichi , Watanabe Chika , Yamauchi Seigo
Published: December 2015

Polymer chain morphology and its response to annealing were investigated in terms of g-tensor anisotropy in poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT)/fullerene blend films fabricated by dip coating. The g-anisotropy highly resolved by W-band (94 GHz) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy enabled us to precisely determine the molecular orientation of P3HT. The substrate dependence of the morphology was also investigated by W-band EPR spectroscopy. The determined morphology and EPR line width provided insight into the growth of P3HT crystalline domains, which was correlated with solar cell performance.
The Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Coal Resource and its Utilization in China — Based on Space Exploration Analysis Technique ESDA
Authors: Li Jinkai , Zhang Jin , Gong Liutang , Miao Pei
Published: December 2015

By using exploratory spatial data analysis technology, this paper studies the coal resource and its utilization in China's 31 provinces between 2001 and 2011. The research concluded that the distribution structure of China has a serious imbalance between coal production and coal consumption. The coal resource curse values for most provinces are decreasing apparently. It was also found out the coal-dominated economic development pattern of regions as “Sanxi” (Shanxi, Shaanxi and Mengxi) has become weakened. From the spatial autocorrelation test on coal resource curse, it is revealed that the observed spatial agglomeration of resource curse show significant positive global autocorrelation, i.e. the high curse value region tends to be cluster, with the low value region following the same trend. Moreover, the outcome of local spatial autocorrelation test indicates that several provinces have significant positive values, and the high-risk curse value district has shrunk to the coal endowment region.
Tripartite Dynamic Competition and Prediction Analysis: Coal, Oil and Gas, and Clean Energy Consumption in China
Authors: Wang Zheng-Xin , Chen Yan-Nan
Published: December 2015

Coal, oil and gas, and clean energy consumptions were considered to be three competitive populations in a closed system and their dynamic competitive relationships were investigated using a Lotka-Volterra model. The parameters of this model were identified through non-linear least squares estimation method; on this basis, this study analysed the equilibrium of the system and predicted its future development trend. Results show that both coal, and oil and gas, consumptions positively promoted clean energy consumption, while oil and gas exerted a greater influence than coal; moreover, clean energy consumption helps to promote oil and gas consumption, and this phenomenon forms competition for coal consumption. The energy consumption system of China is unstable and her energy supply structure still needs further adjustment in the short-term. Although future energy consumption is still dominated by coal, its market share presents a downward trend, and clean energy is expected to become more popular.
Underground Coal Gasification. The Final Frontier – Developing a Regulatory Framework
Authors: Garner Kevin R. , Walker Leonard K.
Published: December 2015

Underground Coal Gasification (“UCG”) is a long-standing, proven process for converting coal to a synthetic gas (“syngas”) with a wide range of potential end uses. Its commercial development has been restricted due to the need to match resource and end use opportunities in a supportive environment, although it is widely recognised as a future clean unconventional new energy source. The Paper reviews the factors necessary for commercial development to occur, with particular reference to the Asian region, where energy demands for the future are significant. Based on the authors' past experience and knowledge of the Asian region, regulatory issues, especially in relation to environmental control, are considered to be the most significant constraints to rapid deployment of the technology. Current international regulatory regimes are discussed and recommendations made to enable both developer, regulator and other stakeholders to understand and advance project development in a manner that meets all environmental compliance requirements, and provides an alternative clean energy supply matching local needs.
Assessment of Material Strength Implications on Seismic Design of Tall Buildings through Collapse Analysis
Authors: Mwafy Aman , Hussain Nadeem , El-Sawy Khaled
Published: December 2015

High-strength materials are widely utilized in multi-story buildings with shear walls to effectively utilize floor areas and control lateral drifts. To investigate the impacts of high-strength concrete on the seismic design coefficients of shear wall-supported structures, five different designs of 60-story buildings with varying concrete strength are considered. The reference structures are designed and detailed such that they have very close periods of vibration. The large number of inelastic analyses performed at different intensity levels using twenty earthquake records and detailed fiber-based simulation models enabled the effective verification of the seismic design coefficients. The results reflect the enhanced profits and safety margins of shear wall-supported structures with increasing concrete strength. There is a possibility for increasing the design coefficients, which has several economic advantages. This systematic study provides practical insights into the seismic response of high-strength shear wall-supported tall buildings at different performance limit states and enables the verification of essential coefficients used in seismic design.
Aeroelastic Responses of Ultra Large Wind Turbine Tower-Blade Coupled Structures with SSI Effect
Authors: Ke S. T. , Wang T.G. , Ge Y.J. , Tamura Y.
Published: December 2015

By a case study on a new-generation 5MW ultra large wind turbine system, the finite element model of the blade-nacelle-tower-foundation coupled structure with soil-structure interaction (SSI) and blade rotational centrifugal force is established. The harmonic superposition method and modified blade-element momentum theory are used to predict the aerodynamic loads with the consideration of tower-blade aerodynamic and model interaction, and modification of steady wind. Then the modal superposition method is adopted to solve the wind turbine coupling dynamic equation, in which the blade speed and aerodynamic force were updated though iteration to obtain the aeroelastic loads. At last, based on the previous work of “consistent coupling method”, which can fully consider the structure background mode, resonant mode, and the coupling effect between them, the aeroelastic responses of the wind turbine-blade coupled system are investigated. For completeness, the action mechanism of SSI effect and aeroelastic effect on the wind-induced responses are discussed through parameter analysis. The research conclusions can provide a scientific foundation for wind-resistance design of the ultra large wind turbine systems.
Experimental Study on the Traditional Timber Mortise-Tenon Joints
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Zhao Junhai , Ma Guowei , Huang Shuanghua
Published: December 2015

The inverted-trapezoid sectioned dovetail (ITSD) mortise-tenon joint was popular during the Chinese Song Dynasty. To investigate the particular features of the ancient wood joint, three 1:4 scaled models of a double-span timber frame with two exterior joints and an interior joint were fabricated according to the construction method commonly used in Chinese traditional wood structures, and tested subjected to fully reversed cyclic loading. Investigated were the mechanical properties of the ITSD mortise-tenon joints such as the connection stiffness and flexibility, hysteretic model and the relationship between the bending moment and relative rotation (i.e. the M-θ′ model). The constitutive parameters of the Kishi-Chen M-θ′ model for ITSD mortise-tenon joints were calibrated using statistical fitting methods. Besides, an assumption applicable to the connection type (e.g. pinned, semi-rigid or rigid joint) at a given connection bending-moment level was suggested with respect to practical engineering purposes. Furthermore, the M-θ′ model obtained for ITSD mortis-tenon joints was incorporated into the commercial software SAP2000, and the experimental hysteretic curves obtained for the three scaled specimens were compared with the curves obtained using finite element method (FEM), it was found that the M-θ′ model validated by this study was applicable to the ITSD mortise-tenon joint.
Concrete-Filled Steel and Steel Tubular T-Joints under Cyclic in-Plane Bending
Authors: Chen J. , Zhang D.W. , Jin W.L.
Published: December 2015

A series of tests on the concrete-filled and steel tubular T-joints under in-plane bending cyclic loading are presented in this paper. Two steel tubes were welded to form T-joint specimens, and then the chord was filled with self-compact concrete. For each test specimen the chord was loaded in a constant compression while the brace was under quasi-static cyclic in-plane bending loading. In total three concrete filled steel T-joints and two pure steel T-joints were tested. The failure modes, hysteretic curves and ultimate strengths of test specimens were obtained. The failure modes of all specimens were punching shear failure of the chord. It was shown that the filled concrete greatly enhanced the stiffness, the yielding strength and the ultimate strengths of T-joints. The energy dissipation ratio of the specimens under cyclic loading was calculated. The energy dissipation ability of concrete-filled specimens was better than that of steel specimens. A method provided by ECCS was used to calculate the yield strength of the test specimens. The ultimate strengths predicted by current AISC Standard and API RP2A specifications were compared with the test results.
The Contract Lifecycle-Practical Experience of Implementing
Authors: Шабалова  , Shabalova L.
Published: December 2015

This article is devoted to the study of modern forms of public-private

partnership — contract life cycle. The experience of world con-tract of the

life cycle is considered on the example of great Britain, the Netherlands, Spain,

Russia. Describes a series of projects under a contract model of the life cycle

in construction of objects of transport and sports infrastructure, both in Europe

and in Russia.
The role of budesonide in the management of Crohn's disease
Authors: Boal Allan , Probert Chris
Published: December 2015

Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses two main conditions: ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). These are chronic debilitating conditions, characterised by relapsing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 620 000 people in the UK are affected by these conditions. The management of CD can be complex, which presents challenges to both patients and clinicians. Treatment of CD is evolving in tandem with an improved understanding of the disease. However, there is currently no cure for this disease. The mainstay of treatment is to induce and maintain clinical remission. Steroid therapies are used in the induction of remission. Current European Crohn's and colitis Organisation (ECCO) guidelines recommend the use of budesonide as the first-line treatment of mild to moderate ileo-caecal CD. This article provides an overview of CD and the current strategies used in its pharmacological management, placing specific focus on the role of budesonide in the treatment pathway.
Transplanting fresh donor faeces to cure symptomatic relapsing Clostridium difficile infection: a literature review
Authors: Kirupananthan Anujeetha
Published: December 2015

Clostridium difficile (C. diff) is a pathogen that affects hospitalised patients on broad-spectrum antibiotics. Recently, a more virulent strain resistant to standard treatment has been observed, in parallel with increasing rates of C. diff in hospitalised and nursing home patients. Metronidazole is the current initial treatment for mild to moderate C. diff, followed by high doses of vancomycin for unresponsive or difficult-to-treat patients. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an alternative therapy that is more efficacious. The findings of the first randomised controlled trial (RCT) on FMT were released in January 2013, and they provide statistically significant results that suggest FMT is more effective than standard therapies. This article reviews the RCT and three other studies, all of which provide a solid recommendation for clinicians to consider fresh faecal transplantation for patients with debilitating recurrent C. diff infections.
Exploring light and dark
Authors: O'Sullivan June
Published: December 2015

We still have dark mornings and dark evenings, which are a great opportunity to explore the concepts of light and dark with children. You can do this for free by watching sunsets and discussing with children why it gets dark. Depending on where you live you may also be able to watch the moon and stars come out, says Kathy Brodie.
Design of Detection Device for Cu Contaminated WaterUsing Induction Principle
Authors: Rakhmadi Frida Agung , Dewi Astika Rusma , Azizi Ahmad Farid
Published: December 2015

The research on detection device design of Cu contaminated water using induction principle has been done. The purpose of this research is to create a detection device of Cu contaminated water using induction principle, characterize the precision of core sensor on detection device, characterize the stability of detection device, and implement the detection device to Cu contaminated water. This research was conducted in four phases: manufacturing of detection device, characterization of core sensor precision, characterization of detection devices stability, and implementation of detection device to Cu contaminated water. The results showed that the detection device of Cu contaminated water using induction principle has been successfully made. The precision of core sensor was 99.96%, while the stability of detection device was the 60th second after turn-on. The success rate of detection device implementation on Cu contaminated water was 100.00%.
Linearization of Hue Value on The Surface of Thermochromic Liquid Crystal With Variation of Temperature
Authors: Suryantari Risti , F Flaviana
Published: December 2015

This research has observed a linear relation of hue value on the surface of a Thermochromic Liquid Crystal (TLC), with variation of temperature, based on statistic value of hue image.  In this research we use ample of TLC with temperature range 250-300 C and 300-350 C. The original image in RGB format is converted to HSV (hue, saturation, value) and by taking hue without saturation and value, then the hue image is processed using Matlab2013a based on a mathematical morphology with opening and closing for the main process to get better images. The final image of each temperature variation can be distinguished based on the statistic value of each image. The value of max and mean hue increases by increasing temperature for each sample. Both samples tend to have the same linearization based on its mean value.
Modification of Materials and Thickness Layer of Radial Piercing Beamport (RPB) Reflector on Kartini Reactor for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT)
Authors: F Octaviana Erawati , R Riyatun , S Suharyana
Published: December 2015

Modification of materials and thicknesses reflector RPB of Kartini reactor has been done to support cancer therapy with BNCT method. Modifications have been investigated by computer simulation method based on software MCNP5. Neutron beam for BNCT must be fulfill the criteria recommended by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), two of which are  n.cm-2.s-1 and  . Before the modification of the neutron beam done, the measurements in the end of the RPB indicate that  n.cm-2.s-1 and  . These conditions were not fulfilling the requirements of the IAEA, so that the modification of the reflector material and thickness layer of RPB should be done. Those modifications were done by varying the materials PbF2, Pb-nat, 209Bi, Ni-nat (95%) and Fe-nat. The simulation result showed if the material Ni-nat (95%) on the thickness 1.5 cm was use as a coating material reflector optimally. The results after the modification showed that  increased 7,54% with the increase amounted to n.cm-2.s-1.  decrease 21,45%, then decreasing the value of       became 1,70.  After the modification the results has not yet fulfill the criteria of the IAEA. Because of the reflector was not the only guide neutron beam. Moderator and filter have not been optimized to deliver results for files that match the criteria of the IAEA for BNCT. Therefore, in future studies modified with the addition of a neutron moderator and also filter is expected to help increasing the quantity of  and decreasing of .
The Application of Thermochromic Liquid Crystal in Temperature Distribution Measurement of Human’s Palm Hand
Authors: F Flaviana , Suryantari Risti
Published: December 2015

Temperature is one of the most important parameters that represent human’s health condition. Some conventional measurements have not been fully accurate, concise, and precise, so Thermochromic Liquid Crystal (TLC) material is required, that based on its structure of molecule characteristics has respond for alteration of local temperature that indicated by color gradation.
The purpose of this research is to perform and to learn the application of TLC-based measurement system in the palm of human’s hands. The benefit of this study is the result of that subject’s temperature mapping provides some opportunities for patients with painful diabetic neuropathy, which lead to ulceration in their foot or hand. The method has been developed using TLC system based on Flaviana’s research in 2012 and with specific setting, hardware and software, in order to acquire image(s). This system utilizes an image processing method, hue of the image is used as parameter, based on mathematical morphology operation.
The (Soft) Power of Sport: The Comprehensive and Contradictory Strategies of Cuba's Sport-Based Internationalism
Authors: Robert Huish  , Thomas F. Carter  , Simon C. Darnell
Published: December 2015

The Cuban government creates and seeks opportunities to engage in collaboration, diplomacy, commerce, and trade in order to pursue its own concepts of progressive international development, which involves garnering much needed hard currency and political benefits for its national interests. Such strategies include the organisation and deployment of sport and physical activity programmes. Based on our analysis of, and interactions with, Cuba's Ministry of Sport — theInstituto Nacional de Deportes, Educación Física y Recreación(INDER) — we suggest that INDER pursuesbothsport development and sport for development — at home and abroad — while simultaneously seeking economic benefits through its for-profit enterprise division namedCubadeportes.The implications of this comprehensive and sometimes contradictory approach are considered, in terms of politics, policy, internationalism and the place of sport therein.
Preparation and investigation of mefenamic acid – polyethylene glycol – sucrose ester solid dispersions
Authors: Fülöp Ibolya , Gyéresi Árpád , Kiss Lóránd , Deli Mária A. , Croitoru Mircea Dumitru , Szabó-Révész Piroska , Aigner Zoltán
Published: December 2015

Mefenamic acid (MA) is a widely used non-steroidal antiinflammatory (NSAID) drug. The adverse effects typical of NSAIDs are also present in the case of MA, partly due to its low water solubility. The aim of this study was to increase the water solubility of MA in order to influence its absorption and bioavailability. Solid dispersions of MA were prepared by the melting method using polyethylene glycol 6000 and different types (laurate, D-1216; palmitate, P-1670; stearate, S-1670) and amounts of sucrose esters as carriers. The X-ray diffraction results show that MA crystals were not present in the products. Dissolution tests carried out in artificial intestinal juice showed that the product containing 10 % D-1216 increased water solubility about 3 times. The apparent permeability coefficient of MA across human Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cell layers was high and, despite the difference in solubility, there was no further increase in drug penetration in the presence of the applied additives.
Risperidone oral disintegrating mini-tablets: A robust-product for pediatrics
Authors: El-Say Khalid M. , Ahmed Tarek A. , Abdelbary Maged F. , Ali Bahaa E. , Aljaeid Bader M. , Zidan Ahmed S.
Published: December 2015

This study was aimed at developing risperidone oral disintegrating mini-tablets (OD-mini-tablets) as age-appropriate formulations and to assess their suitability for infants and pediatric use. An experimental Box-Behnken design was applied to assure high quality of the OD-mini-tablets and reduce product variability. The design was employed to understand the influence of the critical excipient combinations on the production of OD-mini-tablets and thus guarantee the feasibility of obtaining products with dosage form uniformity. The variables selected were mannitol percent in Avicel (X1), swelling pressure of the superdisintegrant (X2), and the surface area of Aerosil as a glidant (X3). Risperidone-excipient compatibilities were investigated using FTIR and the spectra did not display any interaction. Fifteen formulations were prepared and evaluated for preand post-compression characteristics. The prepared ODmini- tablet batches were also assessed for disintegration in simulated salivary fluid (SSF, pH 6.2) and in reconstituted skimmed milk. The optimized formula fulfilled the requirements for crushing strength of 5 kN with minimal friability, disintegration times of 8.4 and 53.7 s in SSF and skimmed milk, respectively. This study therefore proposes the risperidone OD-mini-tablet formula having robust mechanical properties, uniform and precise dosing of medication with short disintegration time suitable for pediatric use.
Social Worker’s Help in Restoring Human Dignity
Authors: Virbalienė Akvilė
Published: December 2015

In this article are presented situations in which the feeling of dignity of a person is lost or decreases and cannot be restored without professional intervention. This loss is one of the reasons of social exclusion in communities. A person with social issues has no abilities to emphasize her/his own uniqueness and authenticity, s/he stops to progress physically, intellectually and spiritually. In this way these persons enter the field of social worker’s help. In this field of help, one of the main factors in the restoration of human dignity is the social worker her/himself: her/his personality can have a huge influence on his client. The main research question in this study is the following: How should a social worker construct the helping process to help the client to restore her/his human dignity? Research object was the social worker’s help in the process of the restoration of human dignity. Research aim was to reveal the elements of the social worker’s support process that help to restore human dignity. Analysis of the reseach-based conceptual literature was the core method to explore and reveal the answers to research questions. The findings of the analysis highlighted that in situations, when people loose their feeling of dignity within social exclusion then they experience the self-deprecating. In the process of social help a main role is played by social worker’s professional communication with the client: the social worker stimulates the maintenance and restoration of client’s dignity by applying the principle of acting together. This principle is based on moral values, reciprocal responsibility, mutual respect, sincerity, confidentiality and empathy. These components create a trustful environment where, by sustaining client’s free choice and a right of decision, the possibility to achieve client’s openness emerges.
Epidemiological Review of Kidney Biopsy during 30 years - Single Center Experience
Authors: Jankovic Aleksandar , Ikonomovski Jovan , Djuric Petar , Mitrovic Milos , Tosic- Dragovic Jelena , Bulatovic Ana , Lipkovski-Markovic Jasmina , Basta-Jovanovic Gordana , Vujic Danica , Dimkovic Nada
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Renal biopsy represents a diagnostic method that provides an acurrate diagnosis and adequate treatment of different renal diseases. The first biopsy in our Center was done in June 1982, but it has been performing routinely since 1984. The aim of this study was to report the histopathological features of biopsy proven kidney disease during the past 30 years.

Methods. During 30 years, a total of 563 biopsies were performed, of which 530(94%) were succesfull. Data about gender, age, clinical syndrome and histopatological finding were collected from the medical records.

Results. The mean age of our patients was 48±11 years, 53% were man (No=272). In the first decade (1982-1994) we performed 118(mean age 50±13), in the second (1995- 2004) 208 (mean age 46±14), and in the third decade (2005-2014) 189 renal biopsies (mean age 50±16). Mean number of glomeruli per biopsy was 18±11. There were only two serious complications. The most common clinical syndromes as indication for renal biopsy were: nephrotic proteinuria (41%) followed by asymptomatic urinary abnormalities (AUA-14.8%), chronic renal failure (CRF-13.8%), acute kidney injury (AKI-12.8%), nephritic syndrome (7.6%), systemic lupus erytematosus (SLE- 4.5%), isolated haematuria (2.7% of the cases) and other (2.9%). The major histological groups identified were: primary glomerulonephritis (GN) (62.3%), secondary GN (21.2%), and other (16.5% of the cases). The most common primary glomerulonephritis (PGN) were focal segmental glomerulosclerosis-FSGS (19.4%) followed by IgA nephropathy-IgAN (18.8%), membranous GNMGN (16.4%) and mesangial proliferation-MesGN (16%). Interstitial changes were present in 55% of biopsy samples in the first, in 66% in the second and in 63% in the third decade. Blood vessel changes were present in 39% of biopsy samples in the first, in 62% in the second and in 72% in the third decade.

Conclusions. The most frequent finding among PGN was mesangioproliferative GN (including IgAN, alltogether 34.8%) followed by FSGS and MGN. Apart from succesful biopsies, there are several aspects to be improved in the future including expanding indications and earlier procedure during the course of chronic kidney disease-CKD.
Contrast Induced Nephropathy in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Ugur Mehmet Can , Ekinci Ferhat , Soyaltın Utku Erdem , Akar Harun
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). On the other hand, CIN is a serious complication in patients with diabetes or renal impairment undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). CIN after PCI may be associated with prolonged hospitalization, increased rates of kidney injury, and short- and long-term mortality. Factors that have been associated with CIN include: diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, recent acute myfocardial infarction, cardiogenic shock, and pre-existing renal impairment. In this study, we investigated contrast nephropathy development after coronary angiography (CAG) in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, who were hospitalized initially in the Coronary Care Unit and subsequenttly referred to the Internal Medicine Clinic in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods. We’ve analyzed 335 patients’ records retrospectively in 1 year that were followed-up with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) and transferred to the Internal Medicine Clinic (IMC). The following parameters were evaluated: age, gender, chronic disease and drug history, biochemical values evaluated before hospitalization to CCU, ejection fraction (EF) and left atrium diameter (LA), with or without previous CAG; values of serum creatinine (sCr) levels before CAG and after 48 hours. Values of p <0.05 were considered to be significant.

Results. 126 of 335 patients were female and 209 were male. The average age of patients was 64.2 years. 122 patients used angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), 54 patients used furosemide. CIN development rate of CAG patients was 22.8% (n=54). There was no significant relationship with age, gender and chronic disease history in CIN patients. When laboratory findings were compared, there was no significant relationship except for potassium value before CAG. However, potassium values were significantly higher in CIN patients (p=0.001). When drug usage of patients was compared, 48.1% (n=26) of CIN patients used ACEI and there was a significant relationship between ACEI use and CIN development (p=0.026).

Conclusions. CIN development rate was 22.8% and it was relatively high when compared with literature data. Awareness about contrast nephropathy develepment risk and assessment of risk factors before the procedure should be increased in our Center.
Analytical interference by monoclonal immunoglobulins on the direct bilirubin AU Beckman Coulter assay: the benefit of unsuspected diagnosis from spurious results
Authors: García-González Elena , González-Tarancón Ricardo , Aramendía Maite , Rello Luis
Published: December 2015

Monoclonal (M) components can interfere with the direct bilirubin (D-Bil) assay on the AU Beckman Coulter instrumentation and produce spurious results, such as D-Bil values greater than total bilirubin (T-Bil) or very low/negative D-Bil values. If properly detected, this interference may uncover undiagnosed patients with monoclonal gammopathy (MG).

We investigated the interference rate on the D-Bil AU assay in serum samples known to contain M proteins along with their isotype and described the protocol set up in our laboratory to help with the diagnosis of MG based on D-Bil spurious results as first indication.

During a period of 4 years, 15.4% (345 of 2235) of serum samples containing M immunoglobulins produced erroneous D-Bil results, although no clear relationship between the magnitude or isotype of the M component and interference could be found. In total 22 new patients were diagnosed with MG based on the analytical artefact with the D-Bil as first indication.

The D-Bil interference from MG on the Beckman AU analysers needs to be made known to laboratories in order to prevent clinical confusion and/or additional workup to explain the origin of anomalous results. Although this information may not add to the management of existing patients with serum paraproteins, it can benefit patients that have not been diagnosed with MG by triggering follow up testing to determine if M components are present.
Determinants Of European Banks' Capital Adequacy
Authors: Klepczarek Emilia
Published: December 2015

This paper examines the factors affecting the Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio (CET1), which is a measure of the relationship between core capital and the risk-weighted assets of banks. The research is based on a randomly selected sample from the group of banks examined by the European Central Bank authorities. The ECB conducted stress tests assessing the CET1 Ratio with respect to the Basel III regulations. The findings confirm the hypothesis about the impact of bank size and the risk indicators (risk-weight assets to total assets ratio and the share of loans in total assets) on banks’ capital adequacy. They also confirm strong effect of competitive pressure and the negative correlation between the CET1 Ratio and the share of deposits in non-equity liabilities, which may be explained by the existence of the deposit insurance system. Finally the paper presents the limitations of the study and conclusions regarding possible further research in this subject area.
Neonatal morbidities and need for intervention in twins and singletons born at 34–35 weeks of gestation
Authors: Simchen Michal J. , Okrent Smolar Avital L. , Dulitzky Mordechai , Sivan Eyal , Morag Iris
Published: December 2015

Objective:

To compare indications for delivery and neonatal morbidities between twins and singletons born between 34 and 35 weeks of gestation.

Study design:

A prospective observational study was performed in which all infants born between January and August 2008, at Sheba Medical Center at 34 0/7–35 6/7 weeks of gestational age were included. Indications for delivery, infants’ morbidities and medical interventions were documented. Twins and singletons were compared for antenatal maternal characteristics, risks of short-term neonatal complications and interventions.

Results:

One hundred and seventy-three mothers and 229 neonates (114 twins and 115 singletons) were included. Background maternal characteristics as well as the use of antenatal steroids and MgSO4 were similar between the groups. Only 44% of all deliveries were spontaneous, while the rest were indicated deliveries. Twins were born lighter and 31.9% of them were SGA. Nevertheless, singletons were significantly more likely to receive medical interventions such as prolonged oxygen use (>1 day) and phototherapy. All late preterm infants (n=5) needing surfactant administration were singletons. Overall, the risk of needing any medical intervention was significantly higher for singletons compared with twins (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.02–3.2).

Conclusions:

A significant proportion of late preterm births is iatrogenic. Twins and singletons are dissimilar with regards to risks of short-term complications. Despite being born smaller and more SGA, twins are at lower risk of requiring medical intervention in the immediate neonatal period compared with singletons.
Ball Speed and Release Consistency Predict Pitching Success in Major League Baseball
Authors: Whiteside David , Martini Douglas N. , Zernicke Ronald F. , Goulet Grant C.
Published: December 2015

Whiteside, D, Martini, DN, Zernicke, RF, and Goulet, GC. Ball speed and release consistency predict pitching success in Major League Baseball. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2015—This study aimed to quantify how ball flight kinematics (i.e., ball speed and movement), release location, and variations therein relate to pitching success in Major League Baseball (MLB). One hundred ninety starting MLB pitchers met the inclusion criteria for this study. Ball trajectory information was collected for 76,000 pitches and inserted into a forward stepwise multiple regression model, which examined how (a) pitch selection, (b) ball speed, (c) ball movement (horizontal and lateral), (d) release location (horizontal and lateral), (e) variation in pitch speed, (f) variation in ball movement, and (g) variation in release location related to pitching success (as measured by fielding independent pitching—FIP). Pitch speed, release location variability, variation in pitch speed, and horizontal release location were significant predictors of FIP and, collectively, accounted for 24% of the variance in FIP. These findings suggest that (a) maximizing ball speed, (b) refining a consistent spatial release location, and (c) using varied pitch speeds should be primary foci for the pitching coach. However, between-pitcher variations underline how training interventions should be administered at the individual level, with consideration given to the pitcher's injury history. Finally, despite offering significant predictors of success, these three factors explained only 22% of the variance in FIP and should not be considered the only, or preeminent, indicators of a pitcher's effectiveness. Evidently, traditional pitching metrics only partly account for a pitcher's effectiveness, and future research is necessary to uncover the remaining contributors to success.
Wearable Lactate Threshold Predicting Device is Valid and Reliable in Runners
Authors: Borges Nattai R. , Driller Matthew W.
Published: December 2015

Borges, NR and Driller, MW. Wearable lactate threshold predicting device is valid and reliable in runners. J Strength Cond Res 30(8): 2212–2218, 2016—A commercially available device claiming to be the world's first wearable lactate threshold predicting device (WLT), using near-infrared LED technology, has entered the market. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of agreement between the WLT-derived lactate threshold workload and traditional methods of lactate threshold (LT) calculation and the interdevice and intradevice reliability of the WLT. Fourteen (7 male, 7 female; mean ± SD; age: 18–45 years, height: 169 ± 9 cm, mass: 67 ± 13 kg, V̇o
2max: 53 ± 9 ml·kg−1·min−1) subjects ranging from recreationally active to highly trained athletes completed an incremental exercise test to exhaustion on a treadmill. Blood lactate samples were taken at the end of each 3-minute stage during the test to determine lactate threshold using 5 traditional methods from blood lactate analysis which were then compared against the WLT predicted value. In a subset of the population (n = 12), repeat trials were performed to determine both inter-reliability and intrareliability of the WLT device. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) found high to very high agreement between the WLT and traditional methods (ICC > 0.80), with TEMs and mean differences ranging between 3.9–10.2% and 1.3–9.4%. Both interdevice and intradevice reliability resulted in highly reproducible and comparable results (CV < 1.2%, TEM <0.2 km·h−1, ICC > 0.97). This study suggests that the WLT is a practical, reliable, and noninvasive tool for use in predicting LT in runners.