bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology of the sting apparatus of the digger wasp Oxybelus uniglumis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae), with emphasis on intraspecific variability and behavioural plasticity
Authors: Matushkina Natalia A. , Stetsun Halyna A.
Published: August 2016

The solitary digger waspOxybelus uniglumis(Linnaeus, 1758) uses its sting not only for paralyzing prey but also for transporting the prey to the nest site. The sting morphology is expected to reflect the mechanical overloading applied to the sting during prey transportation. In this paper, we provide a detailed description of the sting skeleton ofOxybelus uniglumisand define specific morphological characters in order to reveal possible morphological predictions for conducting specific prey-carriage behaviour. The most important features are the following: (1) In contrast to all other known Apoidea,Oxybelus uniglumishas a single (instead of double) valvillus; (2) There are no distinct borders between the rostral process and the 2ndvalvula, so the valvula is relatively strongly articulated to the basal elements of the sting; (3) The internal skeleton exhibits intraspecific variation, which has not previously been recorded for Hymenoptera. Results are discussed from a functional standpoint.
A new species of the Scinax catharinae group (Anura: Hylidae) from southeastern Brazil
Authors: LOURENÇO ANA CAROLINA C. , ZINA JULIANA , CATROLI GAUCILENE F. , KASAHARA SANAE , FAIVOVICH JULIAN , HADDAD CÉLIO F. B.
Published: August 2016

We describe a new species of the Scinax catharinae group from coastal forest in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. We also describe the karyotype and the advertisement call of the new species, which is composed by a multipulsed note. The chromosome morphology of the new species shows the nucleolar organizer region (NOR) on Pair 6, a putative synapomorphy previously inferred for the S. catharinae clade. We report, for the first time, the presence of mental glands in a species of the genus Scinax. Additionally, we provide a brief discussion about the occurrence of glandular tissue on the mental and inguinal regions of the species of the S. catharinae clade.
A new species of Neparholaspis (Acari: Parholaspididae) from Russia, with additional information on Neparholaspis evansi Krantz, 1960
Authors: MARCHENKO IRINA I.
Published: August 2016

Neparholaspis dubatolovi sp. nov. is described and illustrated from adult females and males collected from litter and moss in montane forest in north-eastern Sikhote-Alin Ridge in the Far East of Russia. Additional morphological information and illustrations of Neparholaspis evansi Krantz, 1960 are provided, based on examination of a paratype. A key to the world species of Neparholaspis is provided.
On the type species of the genus Aetius O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896: The first description of male with notes on cymbial notch and mating plug (Araneae: Corinnidae: Castianeirinae)
Authors: SUDHIN PUTHOOR PATTAMMAL , NAFIN KARUNNAPPILLI SHAMSUDHEEN , SIMMONS ZOË , SUDHIKUMAR AMBALAPARAMBIL VASU
Published: August 2016

The rare ant mimicking sac spider genus Aetius was erected by O. Pickard-Cambridge in 1896 based on an unspecified number of female specimen(s) collected from Sri Lanka. The type species of the genus, A. decollatus O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896, has been redescribed twice based on the holotype (Majumder & Tikader 1991; Deeleman-Reinhold 2001). Reimoser (1934) recorded the genus for the first time from India, who collected a male specimen from Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu State of southern India. This specimen was identified as A. decollatus, but it was never formally described and was later recognised to be a penultimate male (Dankittipakul & Singtripop 2013). Deeleman-Reinhold (2001) described the second representative of the genus, A. nocturnus, based on a single female specimen from Borneo, 105 years after the establishment of the genus. Dankittipakul & Singtripop (2013) described the male of A. nocturnus, thereby revealing the male genitalia of the genus, but the type species was still known only from the female sex.
Why Do Global Reanalyses and Land Data Assimilation Products Underestimate Snow Water Equivalent?
Authors: Broxton Patrick D. , Zeng Xubin , Dawson Nicholas
Published: August 2016

There is a large uncertainty of snow water equivalent (SWE) in reanalyses and the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS), but the primary reason for this uncertainty remains unclear. Here several reanalysis products and GLDAS with different land models are evaluated and the primary reason for their deficiencies are identified using two high-resolution SWE datasets, including the Snow Data Assimilation System product and a new dataset for SWE and snowfall for the conterminous United States (CONUS) that is based on PRISM precipitation and temperature data and constrained with thousands of point snow observations of snowfall and snow thickness. The reanalyses and GLDAS products substantially underestimate SWE in the CONUS compared to the high-resolution SWE data. This occurs irrespective of biases in atmospheric forcing information or differences in model resolution. Furthermore, reanalysis and GLDAS products that predict more snow ablation at near-freezing temperatures have larger underestimates of SWE. Since many of the products do not assimilate information about SWE and snow thickness, this indicates a problem with the implementation of land models and pinpoints the need to improve the treatment of snow ablation in these systems, especially at near-freezing temperatures.
Differences in Multitask Resource Reallocation After Change in Task Values
Authors: Matton Nadine , Paubel Pierre , Cegarra Julien , Raufaste Eric
Published: August 2016

Objective

The objective was to characterize multitask resource reallocation strategies when managing subtasks with various assigned values.

Background

When solving a resource conflict in multitasking, Salvucci and Taatgen predict a globally rational strategy will be followed that favors the most urgent subtask and optimizes global performance. However, Katidioti and Taatgen identified a locally rational strategy that optimizes only a subcomponent of the whole task, leading to detrimental consequences on global performance. Moreover, the question remains open whether expertise would have an impact on the choice of the strategy.

Method

We adopted a multitask environment used for pilot selection with a change in emphasis on two out of four subtasks while all subtasks had to be maintained over a minimum performance. A laboratory eye-tracking study contrasted 20 recently selected pilot students considered as experienced with this task and 15 university students considered as novices.

Results

When two subtasks were emphasized, novices focused their resources particularly on one high-value subtask and failed to prevent both low-value subtasks falling below minimum performance. On the contrary, experienced people delayed the processing of one low-value subtask but managed to optimize global performance.

Conclusion

In a multitasking environment where some subtasks are emphasized, novices follow a locally rational strategy whereas experienced participants follow a globally rational strategy.

Application

During complex training, trainees are only able to adjust their resource allocation strategy to subtask emphasis changes once they are familiar with the multitasking environment.
Institutional Dilemmas
Authors: Lee Angela Wang
Published: August 2016

Because high drop-out rates have long plagued drug treatment programs, researchers have spent considerable energy searching for risk factors to predict dropout, with only limited success. In this ethnographic study of a long-term residential treatment program, I argue that failure in residential treatment does not stem from high-risk individual-level characteristics, but from the inherent difficulties of making a turning point in drug treatment. Drug users enter treatment at unstable points in their life course, when they are least equipped to handle stressful experiences. Yet entrance into treatment introduces new stressors, particularly the adaptation to a new, demanding environment. I argue that the very characteristics of residential treatment that enable a drug addict to desist—surveillance, routine activities, rules, and confinement—also make her want to escape. This article elaborates on institutional dilemmas that make treatment difficult and unpredictable, presenting an alternative to the risk factors approach to dropout.
Communication Between Infectious Disease Physicians and US State and Local Public Health Agencies
Authors: Santibañez Scott , Polgreen Philip M. , Beekmann Susan E. , Cairns Catherine , Filice Gregory A. , Layton Marcelle , Hughes James M.
Published: August 2016

Strong working relationships between infectious disease (ID) physicians and public health have resulted in the early detection of emerging infectious threats. From May 6 through June 5, 2015, we surveyed ID physicians in the Infectious Diseases Society of America’s Emerging Infections Network about communications with public health. A total of 688 of 1491 (46%) members completed the survey, 624 (91%) of whom knew how to reach their health department directly for an urgent issue. Only 38 (6%) described communications with their health department as poor. Interest in newer technologies (eg, mobile smartphone applications) showed mixed results. Interest in a smartphone application differed significantly by years of ID experience, with 81 of 146 (55%) respondents with <5 years of ID experience, 172 of 359 (48%) respondents with 5 to 24 years of ID experience, and 61 of 183 (33%) respondents with ≥25 years of ID experience in favor of a smartphone application ( P < .001). As more physicians adopt newer communication technologies, health departments should be prepared to incorporate these tools to communicate with ID physicians.
Identifying Patients for Overdose Prevention With ICD-9 Classification in the Emergency Department, Massachusetts, 2013-2014
Authors: Ellison Jacqueline , Walley Alexander Y. , Feldman James A. , Bernstein Edward , Mitchell Patricia M. , Koppelman Elisa A. , Drainoni Mari-Lynn
Published: August 2016

The national rise in opioid overdose deaths signifies a need to integrate overdose prevention within healthcare delivery settings. The emergency department (ED) is an opportune location for such interventions. To effectively integrate prevention services, the target population must be clearly defined. We used ICD-9 discharge codes to establish and apply overdose risk categories to ED patients seen from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014 at an urban safety-net hospital in Massachusetts with the goal of informing ED-based naloxone rescue kit distribution programs. Of 96,419 patients, 4,468 (4.6%) were at increased risk of opioid overdose, defined by prior opioid overdose, misuse, or polysubstance misuse. A small proportion of those at risk were prescribed opioids on a separate occasion. Use of risk categories defined by ICD-9 codes identified a notable proportion of ED patients at risk for overdose, and provides a systematic means to prioritize and direct clinical overdose prevention efforts.
Church-Based HIV Screening in Racial/Ethnic Minority Communities of California, 2011-2012
Authors: Williams Malcolm V. , Derose Kathryn Pitkin , Aunon Frances , Kanouse David E. , Bogart Laura M. , Griffin Beth Ann , Haas Ann C. , Collins Deborah Owens
Published: August 2016

Community-based human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing at religious congregations has been proposed as a potentially effective way to increase screening among disproportionately affected populations, such as those self-identifying as African American and Latino. Although congregations may provide reach into these communities, the extent to which church-based HIV testing alleviates access barriers, identifies new cases, and reaches people at increased risk for HIV is not well documented. We examined the results of an HIV testing program that was conducted as part of a larger intervention aimed at reducing HIV stigma at five churches in Los Angeles County, California, in 2011-2012. HIV screening identified one positive result in 323 tests but reached a substantial proportion of people who had not been tested before, including many who lacked health insurance. Although this approach may not be an efficient way to identify cases of previously unknown HIV infection, it could help achieve universal testing goals.
Country and Destination Image Domains of a Place: Framework for Quantitative Comparison
Authors: Stepchenkova Svetlana , Shichkova Elena
Published: August 2016

The constructs of country and destination images have been used to understand attitudes and behaviors of consumers and tourists toward products and destinations. The constructs have evolved theoretically in two distinctive streams of literature and their relationship and interactions have not been empirically substantiated. Building on Keller’s brand equity framework (K. Keller, “Conceptualizing, Measuring, and Managing Customer-Based Brand Equity,” Journal of Marketing 57, no. 1 [1993]: 1–22) and biodiversity literature, the study proposes an approach to numerically describe and compare country and destination images of a place on ease of recall, richness and diversity of associations, as well as on strength, favorability, uniqueness, and types of these associations. The study empirically tests the proposed approach using the United States as an example. The approach contributes to better understanding of the two constructs and their relationships, and it is hoped that the study will aid countries and destinations in their branding and marketing efforts.
The Perspective of Undergraduate Research Participant Pool Nonparticipants
Authors: Rocchi Meredith , Beaudry Simon G. , Anderson, Craig , Pelletier Luc G.
Published: August 2016

Undergraduate research participant pools play an essential role in facilitating research, and many universities rely on them for participant recruitment. There is an abundance of information about those who do elect to participate in research through these recruitment systems but very little about those who do not. The present study examines both undergraduate research pool participants and nonparticipants, and the objective is to explore how they differ in their views. A sample of 483 Canadian undergraduate students ( n = 442 participants and n = 41 nonparticipants) completed measures of their impressions of participation, their perceived enjoyment, and their knowledge gained from participating in research and asked to compare this with their impressions of attending class and taking exams. Factorial analysis of variance and χ2 results found support for both similarities and differences between both groups. Overall, the results suggest that nonparticipants do not have a good understanding of what is involved in participating in research activities and view it is a potentially aversive or negative experience.
Characterization of channel oil reservoirs with an aquifer using EnKF, DCT, and PFR
Authors: Kim Sungil , Lee Choongho , Lee Kyungbook , Choe Jonggeun
Published: August 2016

Reservoir characterization is necessary for making reliable models to have future reservoir performances. Since an aquifer typically has positive influences on oil production, its characterization has rarely been regarded as a critical issue. However, in channel oil reservoirs, an aquifer amplifies uncertainty of permeability estimations and has its own uncertainty due to limited information without any direct measurement. Although there have been some researches on channel oil reservoirs using discrete cosine transformation, we cannot characterize reliably an aquifer using discrete cosine transformation alone. Thus, we need additional schemes to manage increased uncertainty by an aquifer and to estimate the aquifer itself. In this study, ensemble Kalman filter with the combination of preservation of facies ratio and discrete cosine transformation is proposed for channel reservoirs with an aquifer. By the proposed method, we confirm that discrete cosine transformation and preservation of facies ratio contribute to preservation of overall channel properties and fine-tuning of the channel in the ensemble Kalman filter algorithm, respectively. Consequently, the proposed method gives us stable characterization performances on oil and water productions, permeability distribution, and aquifer strengths for a reasonable decision.
Molecular Detector (Non)Technology in Mexico
Authors: Reyes-Galindo Luis
Published: August 2016

This paper discusses the introduction of fraudulent “molecular detector” (non)technology into Mexico. The case is used to argue that contemporary science and technology studies’ approaches to scientific policy-making make basic assumptions about the societies they operate in that are inconsistent with the Mexican context. This paper also argues that contrary to what happens in the so-called Global North, the relative power of Mexican science in government and policy circles is as much limited by its relatively weak position as much as it is by self-censorship and unrealized impact in the country’s fragile democracy. The case is also used to highlight the necessity for more politically involved scientific institutions in Mexico, as these become critical safeguards against incoming destabilizing technologies from more powerful nations into the local “peripheral” context.
Linking Work Control to Depressive Symptoms Through Intrapersonal and Marital Processes
Authors: Lee Seonhwa , Wickrama Kandauda K. A. S. , Futris Ted G. , Mancini Jay A.
Published: August 2016

Using latent growth curve modeling and data from a sample of 308 middle-aged husbands and wives over a 3-year period, this study examines the influence of work control experiences on marital processes, specifically focusing on changes in conflict management behaviors, perceived spousal support, and depressive symptoms, and the connection between these attributes over time. Consistent with human ecological and work socialization perspectives, our findings suggest that adults’ positive experiences at work serve as a resource for developing personal and interpersonal skills that transfer to behaviors exhibited in their marriages and this process consequently contributes to individual depressive symptoms. Husbands’ and wives’ positive work experience such as control over work increases their use of positive conflict management behaviors and spousal support through personal control, which in turn decreases their depressive symptoms over time.
Knowledge and Awareness of Sickle Cell Trait Among Young African American Adults
Authors: Harrison Sayward E. , Walcott Christy M. , Warner Tamara D.
Published: August 2016

Sickle cell trait (SCT) places individuals at risk of passing an abnormal hemoglobin gene to biological children and is associated with rare but serious complications. The present study sought to examine knowledge of SCT and awareness of personal trait status among 258 young African American adults. Participants were surveyed regarding demographics, medical history, and sources of sickle cell information before completing a trait knowledge questionnaire. Overall, participants possessed significant misinformation about the condition. Women and those who had learned about sickle cell from families displayed higher levels of knowledge. Most participants were uncertain of personal trait status, and many did not wish to be informed of it. Health care providers should be alert that individuals with SCT may be unaware of their condition and potential reproductive and health implications. Screening and reporting procedures should be examined to ensure individuals have access to and control of this vital health information.
Social policy ‘generosity’ at a time of fiscal austerity: The strange case of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme
Authors: Miller Pavla , Hayward David
Published: August 2016

In a climate of fiscal austerity, Australia’s neo-liberal government is continuing to fund and implement an expensive National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This article presents a demographic, funding and policy context for the introduction of the NDIS. Its success, we argue, must be situated in the context of development of a post-industrial workforce, and owes a lot to its embrace of social investment, marketisation of welfare services, and cash for care. We then look at two tensions unfolding during the scheme’s implementation: increasing demand for care work alongside a shortage of care workers, and the market-driven reform of the Australian vocational education and training system. The changes to vocational education, we conclude, have produced more problems than they solved. Since they anticipate key aspects of the NDIS, they raise questions about the intent and future of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Neoliberal science, Chinese style: Making and managing the ‘obesity epidemic’
Authors: Greenhalgh Susan
Published: August 2016

Science and Technology Studies has seen a growing interest in the commercialization of science. In this article, I track the role of corporations in the construction of the obesity epidemic, deemed one of the major public health threats of the century. Focusing on China, a rising superpower in the midst of rampant, state-directed neoliberalization, I unravel the process, mechanisms, and broad effects of the corporate invention of an obesity epidemic. Largely hidden from view, Western firms were central actors at every stage in the creation, definition, and governmental management of obesity as a Chinese disease. Two industry-funded global health entities and the exploitation of personal ties enabled actors to nudge the development of obesity science and policy along lines beneficial to large firms, while obscuring the nudging. From Big Pharma to Big Food and Big Soda, transnational companies have been profiting from the ‘epidemic of Chinese obesity’, while doing little to effectively treat or prevent it. The China case suggests how obesity might have been constituted an ‘epidemic threat’ in other parts of the world and underscores the need for global frameworks to guide the study of neoliberal science and policymaking.
Changes in Characteristics and Practice Patterns of Ontario Psychiatrists
Authors: Kurdyak Paul , Zaheer Juveria , Cheng Joyce , Rudoler David , Mulsant Benoit H.
Published: August 2016

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the changes in demographic, geographic, and practice characteristics of all Ontario psychiatrists between 2003 and 2013 and their implication for access to psychiatrists.

Methods:

We included all psychiatrists who were clinically active in Ontario in any year from 2003 to 2013. For each psychiatrist, we reported age, sex, years since medical school graduation, geographic practice region, and practice characteristics such as total number of inpatients, outpatients, and outpatient visit frequencies.

Results:

In 2013, there were 2070 psychiatrists, with nearly half (47%) more than 30 years since medical school graduation. Female psychiatrists comprised 41% of all psychiatrists in 2013 but 56% of all psychiatrists within 15 years of medical school graduation. Between 2003 and 2013, there was a 17% increase in the total number of psychiatrists, with the largest growth in psychiatrists occurring in the group more than 30 years from medical school graduation. Over these 11 years, the mean (SD) number of unique outpatients seen by a psychiatrist annually increased from 208 (228) to 249 (275) (19.5%; P = 0.001), with male psychiatrists, on average, seeing more outpatients annually than female psychiatrists.

Conclusion:

The number of outpatients seen by psychiatrists is slowly increasing. However, the large proportion of aging psychiatrists, the high concentration of psychiatrists in urban settings, and the increase in the number of female psychiatrists with smaller practices suggest that without radical changes to the way psychiatrists practice, access to psychiatrists will remain a challenge in Ontario.
Student election stories use more diverse news sources
Authors: Burch Aimee , Cozma Raluca
Published: August 2016

This study explores the sourcing, framing and tone of coverage of the 2012 election by university student newspapers in four swing states. The content analysis found these newspapers focus more on human interest and issue coverage than do their professional counterparts and are more neutral in tone as well as more richly sourced.
Most local newspapers use Pinterest only for news
Authors: Greer Clark F. , Ferguson Douglas A.
Published: August 2016

This study examines how local newspapers across the USA use the social network Pinterest. News is the predominant theme in the 1,123 pin boards analyzed. Also, the number of pin boards is related to the newspapers’ circulation size. Few use Pinterest to promote the newspaper.
Factors Associated with Infant Feeding Choices in the Adolescent Population
Authors: Godbout Jennifer M. , Goldsberry Whitney N. , Franklin Tanya E.
Published: August 2016

Background:

Strong recommendations have been made for exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first 6 months of life, with continuation throughout the first year. In an attempt to optimize support for breastfeeding, particular barriers in populations with decreased rates need to be analyzed.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine if participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food voucher program, involvement of the infant’s father, involvement of the adolescent mother’s parents or other caregivers, and participation in early skin-to-skin contact after birth are associated with the decision to breastfeed or bottle feed among this adolescent population.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of 457 adolescent patients who delivered January 2010 through May 2013 at the University of Louisville Hospital was conducted. Nursing documentation was used to determine the patient’s intention to breastfeed or bottle feed, participation in WIC, involvement of the infant’s father, involvement of the patient’s parents, and participation in early skin-to-skin contact after delivery. These factors were compared using Fisher exact test.

Results:

Three hundred one adolescents reported a plan to breastfeed (65.9%) and 156 reported a plan to bottle feed (34.1%) when questioned pre-delivery. There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to WIC participation or involvement of the infant’s father. The bottle-feeding group had a significantly higher percentage who reported parental involvement (80.1% vs 67.8%, P = .0059). The breastfeeding group had a significantly higher percentage who participated in early skin-to-skin contact after birth (74.5% vs 58.1%, P = .0064).

Conclusion:

Involvement of the adolescent mothers’ parents or caregivers was associated with the decision to bottle feed. Participation in early skin-to-skin contact after birth was associated with the decision to breastfeed.
(Un)Obtrusive Control in Emergent Networks: Examining Funding Agencies’ Control Over Nonprofit Networks
Authors: Doerfel Marya L. , Atouba Yannick , Harris Jack L.
Published: August 2016

Nonprofit sector organizations tackle intractable problems by seeking support from external funding agencies, resulting in funders holding power through resource control. Nonprofits also access resources and coordinate activities through building networks with other nonprofits. Such networks have been viewed as emergent with an underlying assumption that the nonprofits determine when and with whom to partner. Given the power of funders, however, how much control do the nonprofits have in determining whether or not to partner? Document analysis of 83 application packets used by funders in the United States to collect and assess nonprofit suitability for funding shows significant differences between private- and public-sector control over nonprofits decisions to network. Unlike private-sector foundations, public-agency funding documents mandate awardees to network, which has practical and theoretical implications. Although the idea of building a network implies autonomous acts on the part of nonprofits, some are prone to hierarchical influences through grant-making policy.
Efficiency, economics, and the urban heat island
Authors: Miner Mark J , Taylor Robert A , Jones Cassandra , Phelan Patrick E
Published: August 2016

Economic and societal costs of the urban heat island are considered through the marginal effect of temperature increase on device efficiency and lifespan. Urbanization is virtually synonymous with the mechanization of human comfort systems, and the efficiency of these systems is subject to degradation from the urban heat island. The simplest way to model this degradation is an application of ideal device efficiencies, and the results of such an analysis are presented and considered in this paper. The magnitude of these costs and their avoidance or potential mitigation avenues are the principal topics of the work, and the technical underpinnings of the approach are presented in supplementary material available online. The self-reinforcing nature and economic scale of the urban heat island effect are thus approached from the first principles of thermodynamics and available data on relevant devices and systems. A global perspective on the phenomenon is presented, followed by a case study of the Phoenix, Arizona (US) metropolitan area to demonstrate the scale of these effects. This analysis synthesizes thermodynamic and economic approaches to the health and policy issues of the urban heat island, with particular consideration given to planning for minimization of these effects in low- and middle-income urban areas. This study first estimates the costs borne today by large urban centres, then highlights some of the risks that secondary cities will eventually face – and could potentially mitigate – as they undergo rapid growth and densification.
Records management consultancy service in Zimbabwe: The consultants’ view
Authors: Dewah Peterson
Published: August 2016

This article reports the results of a study aimed at establishing the records consultants’ views on records management consultancy services in the Zimbabwean information society. The participants included three records consultancy companies and nine archivists who were purposively sampled. Using a qualitative exploratory study design data were gathered through interviews. The results suggest that there are a plethora of records management problems in both public and private sectors and concludes that the prevailing economic situation is hampering records management consultancy such that organisations’ executives are not allocating resources towards records management and as such consultancy work is adversely affected due to prioritisation of company resources. The study recommends that organisations need to recruit professional records managers and utilise consultants’ expertise to solve some of their records management problems.
Redesigning a Participatory Health Study for a French Industrial Context
Authors: Allen Barbara L. , Cohen Alison K. , Ferrier Yolaine , Lees Johanna , Richards Travis
Published: August 2016

The Marseille, France, metropolitan area is home to a heavily concentrated industrial region directly adjacent to residential communities. These towns have been subjected to a wide variety of social science and public health studies, but residents continue to have many questions about health concerns for which they currently have primarily anecdotal evidence. Reflecting on our in-progress research in two of these towns, we argue that community-based participatory research that draws from both social science and public health science can be successfully adapted to the French political and cultural context and is key for developing environmental health research that is relevant for community residents and local leaders. Understanding and working within the customs of the local values and practices culture is critical for community-based participatory research regardless of location but is particularly paramount when working in non-United States contexts, since local values and practices will shape the particular techniques used within the community-based participatory research framework.
Discrepancies in Women’s Presence between European National Legislatures and the European Parliament
Authors: Xydias Christina
Published: August 2016

This study offers a contextual explanation for discrepancies in women’s rates of election between European national legislatures and the European Parliament (EP). Many European Union (EU) member states elect more women to the EP than to their national lower legislative houses. However, the margin of difference between women’s presence in the EP and these national legislatures varies widely across member states. Using data for the EU-27, the study corroborates previous research in showing that institutional accounts offer limited leverage in explaining these varying gaps. Instead, it argues that the discrepancy between women’s descriptive representation at national and European levels in each case is the result of contextual factors: voters, parties, and upwardly mobile politicians’ valuation of the EP and EP service moderates the translation of the national pool of potential female candidates into EP officeholders.
NES2RA
Authors: Asnicar Francesco , Masera Luca , Coller Emanuela , Gallo Caterina , Sella Nadir , Tolio Thomas , Morettin Paolo , Erculiani Luca , Galante Francesca , Semeniuta Stanislau , Malacarne Giulia , Engelen Kristof , Argentini Andrea , Cavecchia Valter , Moser Claudio , Blanzieri Enrico
Published: August 2016

Gene network expansion is a task of the foremost importance in computational biology. Gene network expansion aims at finding new genes to expand a given known gene network. To this end, we developed gene@home, a BOINC-based project that finds candidate genes that expand known local gene networks using NESRA. In this paper, we present NES2RA, a novel approach that extends and improves NESRA by modeling, using a probability vector, the confidence of the presence of the genes belonging to the local gene network. NES2RA adopts intensive variable-subsetting strategies, enabled by the computational power provided by gene@home volunteers. In particular, we use the skeleton procedure of the PC-algorithm to discover candidate causal relationships within each subset of variables. Finally, we use state-of-the-art aggregators to combine the results into a single ranked candidate genes list. The resulting ranking guides the discovery of unknown relations between genes and a priori known local gene networks. Our experimental results show that NES2RA outperforms the PC-algorithm and its order-independent PC-stable version, ARACNE, and our previous approach, NESRA. In this paper we extensively discuss the computational aspects of the NES2RA approach and we also present and validate expansions performed on the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and the model bacteria Escherichia coli.
Suggested Guidelines for Writing Reflective Case Narratives
Authors: Becker Karin L. , Renger Ralph
Published: August 2016

Reflective case narratives are a practical mechanism for conveying lessons learned for practice improvement. Their ability to transform experience into knowledge in a colloquial, narrative style positions reflective case narratives as a powerful learning tool with pedagogical benefits for the evaluation community. However, one criticism of reflective case narratives is they suffer from loose guidelines and lengthy discussions that obscure lessons learned. Through the use of adult learning theory, a restructuring of reflective case narratives are presented to facilitate learning. The restructuring consists of five sections to increase the likelihood of reflective case narratives as a resource for transferring knowledge, sharing ideas, and keeping a pulse on the dynamic and fluid process of evaluation.
Middle ear polyps: results of traction avulsion after a lateral approach to the ear canal in 62 cats (2004–2014)
Authors: Janssens Sara DS , Haagsman Annika N , Ter Haar Gert
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The objective of this study was to report the surgical outcome and complication rate of deep traction avulsion (TA) of feline aural inflammatory polyps after a lateral approach (LA) to the ear canal.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of data retrieved from an electronic database of 62 cats treated with TA after an LA (TALA) for removal of ear canal polyps. Long-term outcome was assessed via a telephone questionnaire survey with the owners.

Results

Domestic shorthair cats (48%) and Maine Coons (37%) were over-represented. The most common presenting clinical signs were otorrhoea, ear scratching and head shaking. Video-otoscopic examination confirmed a polypous mass in the ear canal in all patients. All 62 cats underwent TALA, with a mean surgical time of 33 mins for experienced surgeons (n = 4) and 48 mins (n = 12) for less experienced surgeons. The recurrence rate of polyp regrowth for experienced surgeons was 14.3% vs 35% for the less experienced surgeons. Postoperative complications included Horner’s syndrome (11.5%) and facial nerve paralysis (3%). Otitis interna was not observed.

Conclusions and relevance

A lateral approach to the ear canal in combination with deep TA of an aural inflammatory polyp is an effective first-line technique that results in a low recurrence and complication rate.
Survey on protocols and applications for vehicular sensor networks
Authors: Jeong Jaehoon (Paul) , Oh Tae (Tom)
Published: August 2016

This article surveys protocols and applications for the driving safety and efficiency in vehicular sensor networks. Nowadays, most vehicles are equipped with Global Positioning System navigation systems in the form of a dedicated navigator or smartphone app. Also, the government regulation requires vehicles to be equipped with dedicated short-range communication device for the communications among vehicles or between vehicles and infrastructure for a safety purpose. Because of this trend, many applications in vehicular networks can be envisioned for the safety of drivers and pedestrians as well as driving efficiency and fuel saving. To support these applications, protocols in physical, link, and network layers are designed and tailored for the optimal performance. This article summarizes and analyzes the state-of-art articles in the protocols and applications for vehicular sensor networks in order to shed the light of research direction on the audience in vehicular sensor networks.
Exploring Experiences and Perceptions of Older African American Males Aging With HIV in the Rural Southern United States
Authors: Blake Barbara J. , Taylor Gloria A. Jones , Sowell Richard L.
Published: August 2016

The HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) epidemic in the United States remains a serious public health concern. Despite treatment and prevention efforts, approximately 50,000 new HIV cases are transmitted each year. Estimates indicate that 44% of all people diagnosed with HIV are living in the southern region of the United States. African Americans represent 13.2% of the United States population; however, 44% (19,540) of reported new HIV cases in 2014 were diagnosed within this ethnic group. The majority of cases were diagnosed in men (73%, 14,305). In the United States, it is estimated that 21% of adults living with HIV are 50 years or older. There exists limited data regarding how well African American men are aging with HIV disease. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of older African American men living with HIV in rural Georgia. Data were collected from 35 older African American men living with HIV using focus groups and face-to-face personal interviews. Qualitative content analysis revealed six overlapping themes: (1) Stigma; (2) Doing Fine, Most of the Time; (3) Coping With Age-Related Diseases and HIV; (4) Self-Care; (5) Family Support; and (6) Access to Resources. The findings from this study provide new insights into the lives of rural HIV-infected African American men, expands our understanding of how they manage the disease, and why many return to or remain in rural communities.
Don’t Forget the Brain: Lifestyle Medicine in the Century of Neurodegeneration
Authors: Thompson Bruce , Morton Darren , Kent Lillian
Published: August 2016

Neurology is often not discussed in lifestyle medicine circles, but it might be an area that will propel the cause of lifestyle medicine in the future. This is especially relevant in increasingly common neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, which have no known disease modifying therapy but lifestyle factors are implicated in causation.
Diffusion imaging of cerebral diaschisis in childhood arterial ischemic stroke
Authors: Kirton Adam , Williams Elizabeth , Dowling Michael , Mah Sarah , Hodge Jacquie , Carlson Helen , Wei Xing-Chang , Ichord Rebecca ,   the PedNIHSS Investigators
Published: August 2016

Background

Diffusion-weighted imaging magnetic resonance imaging may detect changes in brain structures remote but connected to stroke consistent with neuropathological descriptions of diaschisis. Early diffusion-weighted imaging demonstrates restriction in corticospinal pathways after arterial ischemic stroke of all ages that correlates with motor outcome.

Aim/hypothesis

We hypothesized that cerebral diaschisis is measurable in childhood arterial ischemic stroke and explored associations with outcome.

Methods

This sub-study of the validation of the Pediatric NIH Stroke Scale study prospectively enrolled children with acute arterial ischemic stroke and both acute and early follow-up (5–14 days) diffusion-weighted imaging. Inclusion criteria were (1) unilateral middle cerebral artery arterial ischemic stroke, (2) acute and subacute diffusion-weighted imaging ( b = 1000), and (3) 12 month neurological follow-up (Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure). A validated method using ImageJ software quantified diffusion-weighted imaging diaschisis in anatomically connected structures. Diaschisis measures were corrected for infarct volume, compared to age, imaging timing, and outcomes (Chi square/Fisher, Mann–Whitney test).

Results

Nineteen children (53% male, median 8.1 years) had magnetic resonance imaging at medians of 21 and 168 h post-stroke onset. Diaschisis was common and evolved over time, observed in one (5%) on acute but eight (42%) by follow-up diffusion-weighted imaging. Thalamic and callosal diaschisis were most common (5, 26%). Estimates of perilesional diaschisis varied (54 ± 18% of infarct volume). Children with diaschisis tended to be younger (7.02 ± 5.4 vs. 11.82 ± 4.3 years, p = 0.08). Total diaschisis score was associated with poor cognitive outcomes ( p = 0.03). Corticospinal tract diaschisis was associated with motor outcome ( p = 0.004). Method reliability was excellent.

Conclusions

Diffusion-weighted imaging diaschisis occurs in childhood arterial ischemic stroke. Mistaking diaschisis for new areas of infarction carries important clinical implications. Improved recognition and study are required to establish clinical relevance.
Brain MRI findings in two Turkish pediatric patients with aspartylglucosaminuria
Authors: Kartal Ayşe , Aydın Kürşad
Published: August 2016

Aspartylglucosaminuria is a rare lysosomal storage disorder that occurs as a result of a deficiency of the aspartylglucosaminidase enzyme. Because the disease is commonly referred to as the Finnish disease heritage, it is underdiagnosed outside of Finland. To date, only three Turkish patients are described in the literature. Here we describe the clinical and brain magnetic resonance imaging findings in two Turkish cousins with aspartylglucosaminuria, which can raise the suspicion of this rare disease in clinical practice.
Accuracy of SWI sequences compared to T2*-weighted gradient echo sequences in the detection of cerebral cavernous malformations in the familial form
Authors: Sparacia Gianvincenzo , Speciale Claudia , Banco Aurelia , Bencivinni Francesco , Midiri Massimo
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), compared with T2*-weighted gradient echo (GRE) imaging in assessing cerebral cavernous malformations.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively evaluated 21 patients with a familial form of cavernous malformation. Magnetic resonance (MR) protocol included non-enhanced and contrast-enhanced fast-spin echo (FSE) T1-weighted sequences, FSE T2-weighted sequences, fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR), GRE T2*-weighted and SWI sequences. Images were reviewed in consensus by two expert neuroradiologists to assess the location, number, size and conspicuity of the lesions on T2*-weighted GRE and SWI sequences. Statistical differences in the number, size and conspicuity of the lesions seen on the SWI images and the T2*-weighted GRE images were assessed with the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results

The number of cavernous malformations was significantly higher ( p < .001) on the SWI images ( n = 152) than on T2*-weighted GRE images ( n = 56). Lesion size was significantly higher ( p < .001) on SWI images (mean: 0.4 cm, SD ± 0.55) than on T2*-weighted GRE sequences (mean: 0.2 cm, SD ± 0.51) and the differences were statistically significant ( p < .001). Lesion conspicuity was significant higher ( p < .001) on SWI than on T2*-weighted GRE images. In one patient who underwent a 2-month follow-up for the onset of neurologic symptoms related to cerebral hemorrhage, a cerebral hematoma was identified at the site of a cerebral cavernous malformation that was demonstrated only on the SWI images in the previous MR examination.

Conclusions

The SWI sequence, being more sensitive to substances which distort the local magnetic field than the GRE T2*W sequence, showed a higher sensitivity in identifying cerebral cavernous malformations. Thus, routine clinical neuroimaging protocol should contain SWI sequences to evaluate patients with (or suspected) cerebral cavernous malformations.
Non-convulsive status epilepticus in a patient with carbon-monoxide poisoning treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Authors: Marziali Simone , Di Giuliano Francesca , Picchi Eliseo , Natoli Silvia , Leonardis Carlo , Leonardis Francesca , Garaci Francesco , Floris Roberto
Published: August 2016

The presentation of carbon monoxide poisoning is non-specific and highly variable. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used for the treatment of this condition. Various reports show the occurrence of self-limiting seizures after carbon monoxide poisoning and as a consequence of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Contrary to the seizures, status epilepticus has been rarely observed in these conditions. The exact pathophysiology underlying seizures and status epilepticus associated with carbon monoxide poisoning and hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not really clear, and some elements appear to be common to both conditions. We describe a case of non-convulsive status epilepticus in a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The mechanism, MRI findings and implications are discussed.
‘Productive’ and ‘disciplined’ students for the ‘common good’: Globalised discourses of neoliberal and neoconservative responsibility in Australian education policy
Authors: Wardman Natasha Penelope
Published: August 2016

The notion of responsibility makes a significant appearance in a range of Westernised education policy documents concerned with student conduct, welfare and values. While policies may differ in the extent to which responsibility is explicitly defined or generally assumed, most seem to emphasise an ideal social subject who is accountable, self-regulating and actively contributing to civic life. Drawing on insights from Michel Foucault, Emmanuel Levinas and Judith Butler, I argue that the emphasis on neoliberal and neoconservative discourses in Australian educational policy can work to undermine more unconditional forms of responsibility grounded in notions of ethics, care and recognition of the other.