bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetoelasticity of gels
Authors: Kasinathan Sakthivel T , Srinivasan Sivakumar M
Published: February 2018

Magnetoelastic gel is an active material that is used widely these days. The behavior of these multifunctional gels is derived from a polymer matrix and magnetoresponsive inclusions. The polymer matrix provides structural integrity as well as load bearing capacity to the magnetoelastic gel. The magnetic behavior of the magnetoelastic gel is attributed to a large number of nano-to-micron-sized magnetic particles disbursed in the polymer matrix. The magnetoelastic gel is said to be diluted if the interparticle interactions are negligible/small or concentrated if there are strong interparticle interactions. We consider strong interparticle interactions in the magnetoelastic gel. When the magnetic field is applied to the magnetoelastic gel, the disbursed magnetic particles tend to translate and rotate to a new deformed configuration. Due to these translations and rotations of the many magnetoelastic particles, the polymer matrix around each particle deforms. These micro-deformations then coalesce and lead to the overall macroscopic deformation of the magnetoelastic gel. Both magnetization and mechanical strain characterize the magnetoelastic behavior of the magnetoelastic gel. In this article, an energy minimization approach is followed to find the equilibrium magnetization and strain. We formulate the total energy of the magnetoelastic gel on multiple-length scales and minimize it to obtain these equilibrium magnetization and mechanical strain. We also investigate the effect of particle size and polarization under the framework of energy minimization.
Palliative Care Educational Interventions for Prelicensure Health-Care Students: An Integrative Review
Authors: Lippe Megan , Johnson Bailey , Mohr Stephanie Barger , Kraemer Kyle Rhoads
Published: February 2018

To provide adequate care, students from all health-care professions require education regarding palliative and end-of-life (EOL) care prior to entering professional practice. In particular, students need proper training to be equal members of interprofessional teams providing palliative and EOL care. However, limited information is currently available about the effectiveness of educational interventions relating to palliative and EOL care. Thus, an assessment of educational interventions to utilize in providing this education is warranted. The purpose of this integrative review was to critically evaluate the impact of palliative or EOL care interventional studies on learning outcomes for prelicensure health-care students. Articles published from 2001 to present that utilizied palliative or EOL care educational interventions for prelicensure students from any health-care profession and also evaluated preidentified learning outcomes were included in the review. The final sample comprised 34 articles. Four studies utilized interprofessional interventions, whereas the remaining taught students from a single profession. Trends in sample sizes, teaching interventions, learning outcomes, and outcome measures are discussed. Teaching interventions reviewed were primarily focused on student learning outcomes specific to knowledge and attitudes. Future studies should implement interprofessional educational interventions, utilize reliable and valid outcome measures, and evaluate their impact on different learning outcomes, such as self-efficacy, comfort, and communication.
Animal-Assisted Intervention and Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yakimicki Michelle L. , Edwards Nancy E. , Richards Elizabeth , Beck Alan M.
Published: February 2018

This review discusses the relationship between animal-assisted interventions (AAI) and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). A systematic search was conducted within CINAHL, Web of Science CAB Abstracts, PubMed, Abstracts in Social Gerontology, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO for primary research articles. A total of 32 studies were included in the final review. Variation was noted in study designs and in study setting. Twenty-seven of 32 studies used dogs as the intervention. Agitation/aggression showed a significant decrease in nine of 15 studies. Eleven of 12 studies demonstrated increased social interaction with AAI. Mood had mixed results in nine studies. Quality of life was increased in three of four studies. Resident activity and nutritional intake were each increased in two studies. Animal assisted activities/interventions showed a strong positive effect on social behaviors, physical activity, and dietary intake in dementia patients and a positive effect on agitation/aggression and quality of life.
Heart Failure Symptoms Profile Associated With Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Graven Lucinda J. , Higgins Melinda K. , Reilly Carolyn M. , Dunbar Sandra B.
Published: February 2018

Heart failure (HF) symptoms are known to influence depressive symptoms, yet a symptom profile has not been identified. HF symptoms relative to symptom experience (frequency, severity, interference with physical activity and enjoyment of life) associated with depressive symptoms were examined. Data from three HF studies ( N = 308) which used the Heart Failure Symptom Survey were included in this cross-sectional secondary analysis. Supervised classification for and identification of symptoms most associated with depressive symptoms were accomplished using random forest algorithms via conditional inference trees. The HF symptom profile associated with depressive symptoms across all four symptom experience domains included fatigue, dizziness, and forgetfulness/difficulty concentrating. Abdominal bloating, worsening cough, and difficulty sleeping were also important, but did not consistently rank in the top 5 for symptom importance relative to all symptom experience domains. Symptom profiling may enhance early identification of patients at risk for depressive symptoms and inform symptom management interventions.
Modal analysis of masonry structures
Authors: Girardi Maria , Padovani Cristina , Pellegrini Daniele
Published: February 2018

This paper presents a new numerical tool for evaluating the vibration frequencies and mode shapes of masonry buildings in the presence of cracks. The algorithm has been implemented within the NOSA-ITACA code, which models masonry as a nonlinear elastic material with zero tensile strength. Some case studies are reported, and the differences between linear and nonlinear behaviour are highlighted.
Public–Private Partnerships: Where Do We Go From Here? A Belgian Perspective
Authors: van den Hurk Martijn
Published: February 2018

The use of public–private partnerships (PPPs) for infrastructure provision has not always been based on their promise to deliver value for money (VfM). PPPs have also been applied to keep investments off governments’ annual accounts. This article links that motivation to particular modes of practice. It depicts the case of the Belgian region of Flanders. In this jurisdiction, a long-term PPP policy strategy, central coordination mechanism, and application of VfM assessment tools have remained absent. PPP has been used in an ad hoc way, which has granted government departments leeway in closing partnership deals. The result has been a fragmentation of both knowledge and practices. It will be challenging to realize reforms that include a more critical stance toward PPP and foster learning processes: Actors have become used to their ways of dealing with PPP and seek to pursue their own fragmented trajectories.
A Combinatorial Proteomic Biomarker Assay to Detect Ovarian Cancer in Women
Authors: Henderson Meredith C , Silver Michael , Borman Sherri , Tran Quynh , Letsios Elias , Mulpuri Rao , Reese David E , Wolf Judith K
Published: February 2018

Ovarian cancer is often fatal and incidence in the general population is low, underscoring the necessity (and the challenges) for advancements in screening and early detection. The goal of this study was to design a serum-based biomarker panel and corresponding multivariate algorithm that can be used to accurately detect ovarian cancer. A combinatorial protein biomarker assay (CPBA) that uses CA125, HE4, and 3 tumor-associated autoantibodies resulted in an area under the curve of 0.98. The CPBA Ov algorithm was trained using subjects who were suspected to have gynecological cancer and were scheduled for surgery. As a surgical rule-out test, the clinical performance achieves 100% sensitivity and 83.7% specificity. Although sample size (n = 60) is a limiting factor, the CPBA Ov algorithm performed better than either CA-125 alone or the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm.
Telepractice delivery of family-centred early intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing: A scoping review
Authors: McCarthy Melissa , Leigh Greg , Arthur-Kelly Michael
Published: February 2018

Introduction

The use of telepractice, a method of delivering services through telecommunications technologies that provides two-way, synchronous audio and video signals in real-time, is becoming increasingly commonplace in early childhood education and intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Although the use of telepractice has been validated in the health sector as a viable and effective alternative to in-person service provision, evidence to support its use in the delivery of family-centred early intervention is still emerging. The purpose of this scoping review was to describe the current use of telepractice in the delivery of family-centred early childhood intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing, and their families.

Method

The review followed the framework outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute (2015), including an iterative three-step search strategy. Specific inclusion criteria and data extraction fields were outlined in advance.

Results

A total of 23 peer-reviewed publications were included in the review. Most publications (70%) provided anecdotal evidence of the challenges and benefits associated with telepractice. The remaining publications (30%) reported on research studies evaluating the effectiveness of early intervention delivered through telepractice. Of the 23 included papers, 18 viewed the use of telepractice positively while the remaining 5 reported mixed conclusions and the need for more data.

Discussion

Current evidence in the literature indicates that telepractice can be an effective model for delivering family-centred early intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. However, more research is needed to substantiate the use of telepractice as a viable alternative to traditional in-person services, rather than being seen as supplemental to such services.
Psychometric properties of questionnaires and diagnostic measures for autism spectrum disorders in adults: A systematic review
Authors: Wigham Sarah , Rodgers Jacqui , Berney Tom , Le Couteur Ann , Ingham Barry , Parr Jeremy R
Published: February 2018

Accurately diagnosing autism spectrum disorders in adulthood can be challenging. Structured questionnaires and diagnostic measures are frequently used to assist case recognition and diagnosis. This study reviewed research evidence on structured questionnaires and diagnostic measures published since the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence evidence update. The Cochrane library, Medline, Embase and PsycINFO were searched. In all, 20 studies met inclusion criteria. Sensitivity and specificity of structured questionnaires were best for individuals with previously confirmed autism spectrum disorder diagnoses and reduced in participants referred for diagnostic assessments, with discrimination of autism spectrum disorder from mental health conditions especially limited. For adults with intellectual disability, diagnostic accuracy increased when a combination of structured questionnaires were used. Evidence suggests some utility of diagnostic measures in identifying autism spectrum disorder among clinic referrals, although specificity for diagnosis was relatively low. In mental health settings, the use of a single structured questionnaire is unlikely to accurately identify adults without autism spectrum disorder or differentiate autism spectrum disorder from mental health conditions. This is important as adults seeking an autism spectrum disorder diagnostic assessment are likely to have co-existing mental health conditions. Robust autism spectrum disorder assessment tools specifically for use in adult diagnostic health services in the presence of co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders are a research priority.
Period/frequency estimation of a nonlinear oscillator
Authors: Tian Dan , Liu Zhi
Published: February 2018

Fast estimation of a nonlinear oscillator is very much needed in engineering, the perturbation method is valid only for weakly nonlinear oscillators. This paper gives some simple formula for this purpose, only simple calculation is needed to have a relatively high accuracy of the estimated frequency.
Attitudes towards the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership in the European Union: The treaty partner heuristic and issue attention
Authors: Steiner Nils D
Published: February 2018

Why has the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partisanship met with strong public resistance among some Europeans and in some European Union member states, but not in others? This article argues that one important perspective to explain the pattern of support for TTIP is the role of heuristic opinion formation and issue attention. Analysing multiple waves of Eurobarometer data, I find that views of the two treaty partners, the US and the European Union, shape attitudes towards TTIP and that the largely post-materialist concerns over TTIP resonated specifically in those European countries whose citizens’ attention was less focused on economic issues. In showing how opinions towards concrete real-world trade policy proposals are shaped by the political context, these findings complement previous research on citizens’ general stances towards trade.
A generalized additive model approach to time-to-event analysis
Authors: Bender Andreas , Groll Andreas , Scheipl Fabian
Published: February 2018

Abstract:

This tutorial article demonstrates how time-to-event data can be modelled in a very flexible way by taking advantage of advanced inference methods that have recently been developed for generalized additive mixed models. In particular, we describe the necessary pre-processing steps for transforming such data into a suitable format and show how a variety of effects, including a smooth nonlinear baseline hazard, and potentially nonlinear and nonlinearly time-varying effects, can be estimated and interpreted. We also present useful graphical tools for model evaluation and interpretation of the estimated effects. Throughout, we demonstrate this approach using various application examples. The article is accompanied by a new R -package called pammtools implementing all of the tools described here.
Identifying and measuring dynamic capability using search routines
Authors: Hilliard Rachel , Goldstein Don
Published: February 2018

Much attention has been paid to the theoretical and empirical difficulties of identifying dynamic capability, given that it is a latent construct that is difficult to observe. There is consensus that dynamic capability should be defined so as to distinguish the capability for change from the change achieved: it is the organisation’s capacity to change its resource base. But operationalising this idea has proven difficult. We propose an empirical representation based on a modest theoretical extension: the accepted definition implies that dynamic capability is constituted in organic engagement with the operating resources it is intended to change. This extension allows us to represent dynamic capability using a widely recognised, observable underpinning of dynamic capability – search routines. Using data on Irish manufacturers’ efforts to adapt to a heightened environmental-regulation regime, we draw from environmental-management research and the evolutionary and behavioural theories of the firm to specify criteria for identifying, categorising and measuring search routines and using this to construct a dynamic capability measure. The contribution is to present a replicable, theory-based protocol for studying dynamic capability and its complex relationship with firm performance and evolutionary fitness.
Measuring light in field experiments using dummies and objects: A study of concert lighting
Authors: Lo VWL , Steemers KA
Published: February 2018

Lighting experiments were performed in a real context populated with dummies and objects. Using the King’s College Chapel in Cambridge as a case study, two field surveys of concert lighting were performed, one with the chapel empty and one with it occupied. In each survey, photometric data were collected under three electric lighting conditions and from six different viewing positions. A comparative analysis indicates that the data gathered from the occupied space represent the luminances more accurately, present a more detailed description of the light distribution, and provide a more extensive set of variables characterising the geometrical details of the visual scene. This study demonstrates the importance of using occupied spaces and considering the presence of occupants in field studies, which could be useful for obtaining a more complete understanding of complex luminous environments.
Gender-Based Violence Against Transgender People in the United States: A Call for Research and Programming
Authors: Wirtz Andrea L. , Poteat Tonia C. , Malik Mannat , Glass Nancy
Published: February 2018

Gender-based violence (GBV) is an umbrella term for any harm that is perpetrated against a person’s will and that results from power inequalities based on gender roles. Most global estimates of GBV implicitly refer only to the experiences of cisgender, heterosexually identified women, which often comes at the exclusion of transgender and gender nonconforming (trans) populations. Those who perpetrate violence against trans populations often target gender nonconformity, gender expression or identity, and perceived sexual orientation and thus these forms of violence should be considered within broader discussions of GBV. Nascent epidemiologic research suggests a high burden of GBV among trans populations, with an estimated prevalence that ranges from 7% to 89% among trans populations and subpopulations. Further, 165 trans persons have been reported murdered in the United States between 2008 and 2016. GBV is associated with multiple poor health outcomes and has been broadly posited as a component of syndemics, a term used to describe an interaction of diseases with underlying social forces, concomitant with limited prevention and response programs. The interaction of social stigma, inadequate laws, and punitive policies as well as a lack of effective GBV programs limits access to and use of GBV prevention and response programs among trans populations. This commentary summarizes the current body of research on GBV among trans populations and highlights areas for future research, intervention, and policy.
Formative Evaluation of a Pilot Afterschool Physical Activity–Based Positive Youth Development Program
Authors: Riciputi Shaina , Boyer Paige , McDonough Meghan H. , Snyder Frank J.
Published: February 2018

4-H PALS is an afterschool positive youth development program for pre- and early adolescents delivered within the 4-H platform and designed to use physical activity to promote character development. The conceptual framework for this program, informed by the theory of triadic influence, prioritizes the social environment created during physical activities to promote adaptive outcomes. Given the novelty of the 4-H PALS curriculum, it is important to outline program components and identify both strengths and challenges to be addressed. Thus, this study aimed to document, describe, and conduct a formative evaluation of 4-H PALS. Major themes were identified across leader and participant interviews, program observations, lesson planning notes, attendance records, and intervention team feedback using inductive analysis methods. Three key areas of evaluation were identified: curriculum implementation fidelity, participant engagement with the curriculum and context, and the social environment. The program was successful in creating an affirmative, engaging environment fostering positive self-perceptions and social outcomes for participants. Challenges with logistical and conceptual implementation of the curriculum’s character development concepts were identified. This evaluation will inform program refinements, with the goal of preparing the program for an efficacy study examining outcomes among participating youth.
Initial Experience With the Outback Catheter for Targeted Reentry During Subintimal Angioplasty of the Infragenicular Arteries
Authors: Diamantopoulos Athanasios , Santonocito Serafino , Thulasidasan Narayanan , Gkoutzios Panos , Ahmed Irfan , Zayed Hany , Katsanos Konstantinos
Published: February 2018

Purpose: To report use of the Outback reentry device for targeted distal reentry during subintimal recanalization of chronic total occlusions (CTOs) in the infragenicular arteries. Methods: During an 18-month period, the Outback device was applied in 10 patients (mean age 71.8±18.8 years; 8 men) to achieve reentry at the infragenicular segment following either unsuccessful spontaneous reentry after subintimal crossing of a CTO or when a targeted reentry was desired. The mean occlusion length was 117.5±101.0 mm. Technical (device) success, overall procedure success, and reentry accuracy are reported, along with any major or minor complications. Results: The device was technically successful in achieving reentry in 9 of 10 cases; overall procedure success was achieved in 8 owing to heavy calcifications in a distal posterior tibial artery and a distal popliteal artery. The reentry accuracy was 10.8±14.6 mm. There were no major complications and only 3 minor sequelae, including 2 dissections and 1 small perforation; all were treated successfully with stenting. Conclusion: The Outback device has a high technical success rate in achieving targeted true lumen reentry in infragenicular subintimal angioplasty when spontaneous reentry is not possible or a targeted reentry is desirable.
Postwar Urban Redevelopment and the Politics of Exclusion: The Case of San Francisco’s Chinatown
Authors: Li Chuo
Published: February 2018

This article examines the landscape changes of San Francisco's Chinatown resulting from urban redevelopment after World War II. It describes the contested process of community development and documents the intricacies of Chinatown's spatial struggles. Socially constructed as a space of “otherness,” San Francisco's Chinatown illustrates the ways in which urban redevelopment process interacted with the social and cultural tensions of a plural and liberal urban society. It also reveals how the existing categories of ethnicity and cultural identity have been renegotiated over time.
Student participation at Helping Hand Aged Care: taking clinical placement to the next level
Authors: Loffler Helen , Barnett Kate , Corlis Megan , Howard Sara , Van Emden Jan
Published: February 2018

Background

The Student Education and Participation Program that has evolved at Helping Hand Aged Care over the past decade is based on ongoing research and evaluation, and a highly innovative example of the teaching nursing home model has emerged.

Methods

Drawing on that body of work and findings from the national evaluation of Australia’s TRACS (Teaching and Research Aged Care Services) programme (2012–2015) an analysis of the model is presented.

Results and conclusions

Lessons learned about the challenges faced, enabling factors, the benefits generated and outcomes achieved are presented.
Comprehensive Examination of the Athlete’s Shoulder
Authors: Cotter Eric J. , Hannon Charles P. , Christian David , Frank Rachel M. , Bach Bernard R.
Published: February 2018

Context:

Shoulder pain and dysfunction are common, with patients presenting complaints to both primary and orthopaedic physicians. History and physical examination remain essential to creating a differential diagnosis, even as noninvasive imaging has improved.

Evidence Acquisition:

Literature was obtained through keyword searches based on the pathology in question (eg, rotator cuff) and the keywords physical examination using PubMed from January 1, 1980, through September 20, 2017. Additional evidence was obtained through screening references from articles identified through the PubMed searches.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Results:

A total of 7817 articles were screened for relevance. Several physical examination maneuvers have been described for each specific pathology. The Neer sign has a 75% sensitivity for subacromial impingement (SAI), while the Hawkins-Kennedy test has an 80% sensitivity. The painful arc test has an 80% specificity for SAI. The apprehension test has a hazard ratio of 2.96 for anterior shoulder instability. The Jobe test has a sensitivity of 52.6% and a specificity of 82.4% for full-thickness supraspinatus tears, confirmed on arthroscopy. The lag sign is highly sensitive and specific for combined full-thickness supraspinatus and infraspinatus tears at 97% and 93%, respectively. The Speed test has a sensitivity of 54% and specificity of 81% for biceps pathology. The anterior slide test and O’Brien active compression test have been described for superior labrum anterior posterior tears with inconsistent reliability. The cross-body adduction test has a sensitivity of 77% and a specificity of 79% for acromioclavicular joint pathology.

Conclusion:

Several physical examination maneuvers can isolate specific pathology of the shoulder, with widely ranging sensitivity and specificity.
Minor (il)literate artworks: Inventive processes of biliteracy and the role of expertise in early childhood bilingual education
Authors: Martín-Bylund Anna
Published: February 2018

This article explores material-semiotic movements of literacy and the collective potentials of an estranged relationship to language in early childhood bilingual education. It engages three different situations from a bilingual, Spanish-Swedish early childhood institution in Sweden with notions of a minor literature, as it appears in Deleuze and Guattari’s writings. This engagement puts forward the material presences of language as well as the creativity of what could be called an (il)literate expertise: balancing and experimenting on the cutting edge between things and propositions. This involves an intensive, deterritorializing treatment of language, a “becoming minor” with language in passionate, sensual, experimenting ways, rather than reproducing a standard, already known version of language. The discussion highlights the inventive processes of biliteracy as well as the need to differentiate the notion of expertise in early childhood bilingual education.
Cost-efficacy analysis of 3% diclofenac sodium, ingenol mebutate, and 3.75% imiquimod in the treatment of actinic keratosis
Authors: Nisticò Steven , Del Duca Ester , Torchia Valeria , Gliozzi Micaela , Bottoni Ugo , Muscoli Carolina
Published: February 2018

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a clinical condition characterized by keratinocytic dysplastic lesions of the epidermis, affecting individuals chronically exposed to sunlight. Topical therapies allow the treatment of a whole area of affected skin and currently include diclofenac sodium gel, 5-fluorouracil cream, 5-fluorouracil and acetylsalicylic acid solution, imiquimod cream, and ingenol mebutate gel. Due to the comparable efficacy of 3% diclofenac, ingenol mebutate, and 3.75% imiquimod in treating AK multiple lesions, a pharmacoeconomic evaluation of cost-effectiveness of the three treatments was needed. A cost-efficacy analysis comparing 3% diclofenac sodium with ingenol mebutate and 3.75% imiquimod was performed. In this analysis, efficacy data were combined with quality-of-life measurement derived from previous studies as well as the costs associated with the management of these lesions in Italy. Patients’ demographics and clinical characteristics were assumed to reflect those from the clinical studies considered.
Current Profile of Adults Presenting for Preoperative Cochlear Implant Evaluation
Authors: Holder Jourdan T. , Reynolds Susan M. , Sunderhaus Linsey W. , Gifford René H.
Published: February 2018

Considerable advancements in cochlear implant technology (e.g., electric acoustic stimulation) and assessment materials have yielded expanded criteria. Despite this, it is unclear whether individuals with better audiometric thresholds and speech understanding are being referred for cochlear implant workup and pursuing cochlear implantation. The purpose of this study was to characterize the mean auditory and demographic profile of adults presenting for preoperative cochlear implant workup. Data were collected prospectively for all adult preoperative workups at Vanderbilt from 2013 to 2015. Subjects included 287 adults (253 postlingually deafened) with a mean age of 62.3 years. Each individual was assessed using the minimum speech test battery, spectral modulation detection, subjective questionnaires, and cognitive screening. Mean consonant-nucleus-consonant word scores, AzBio sentence scores, and pure-tone averages for postlingually deafened adults were 10%, 13%, and 89 dB HL, respectively, for the ear to be implanted. Seventy-three individuals (25.4%) met labeled indications for Hybrid-L and 207 individuals (72.1%) had aidable hearing in the better hearing ear to be used in a bimodal hearing configuration. These results suggest that mean speech understanding evaluated at cochlear implant workup remains very low despite recent advancements. Greater awareness and insurance accessibility may be needed to make cochlear implant technology available to those who qualify for electric acoustic stimulation devices as well as individuals meeting conventional cochlear implant criteria.
Speech Processing to Improve the Perception of Speech in Background Noise for Children With Auditory Processing Disorder and Typically Developing Peers
Authors: Flanagan Sheila , Zorilă Tudor-Cătălin , Stylianou Yannis , Moore Brian C. J.
Published: February 2018

Auditory processing disorder (APD) may be diagnosed when a child has listening difficulties but has normal audiometric thresholds. For adults with normal hearing and with mild-to-moderate hearing impairment, an algorithm called spectral shaping with dynamic range compression (SSDRC) has been shown to increase the intelligibility of speech when background noise is added after the processing. Here, we assessed the effect of such processing using 8 children with APD and 10 age-matched control children. The loudness of the processed and unprocessed sentences was matched using a loudness model. The task was to repeat back sentences produced by a female speaker when presented with either speech-shaped noise (SSN) or a male competing speaker (CS) at two signal-to-background ratios (SBRs). Speech identification was significantly better with SSDRC processing than without, for both groups. The benefit of SSDRC processing was greater for the SSN than for the CS background. For the SSN, scores were similar for the two groups at both SBRs. For the CS, the APD group performed significantly more poorly than the control group. The overall improvement produced by SSDRC processing could be useful for enhancing communication in a classroom where the teacher’s voice is broadcast using a wireless system.
Why Buy a Home? Race, Ethnicity, and Homeownership Preferences in the United States
Authors: McCabe Brian J.
Published: February 2018

There are many reasons why Americans prefer homeownership to renting. Owning a home can serve as a vehicle for economic mobility or a marker of status attainment. Homeownership may deepen feelings of ontological security and enable families to move into more convenient neighborhoods. While previous research on race, ethnicity, and housing focuses on homeownership attainment, identifying structural barriers to explain persistent racial disparities, there has been little investigation of the reasons why Americans prefer to own their own homes. Drawing on the National Housing Survey, a nationally representative survey of American adults, I ask how these reasons vary by race and ethnicity. I report that African Americans and Latinos are more likely than whites to identify the social status of ownership and the importance of building wealth as reasons to buy a home. While African Americans are also more likely to pursue homeownership as a way to improve their housing quality, they are less likely to view ownership as a tool for accessing more convenient neighborhoods. As a contribution to research on racial stratification in homeownership, my findings push beyond existing studies of revealed preferences to explain why buying a home endures as such an important goal for many Americans. African Americans and Latinos are more deeply invested in the social status of homeownership, the importance of building wealth, and the promise of moving into a nicer home when they pursue ownership opportunities.
Lexical metaphor as affiliative bond in newspaper editorials: a systemic functional linguistics perspective
Authors: Liu Feifei
Published: February 2018

From the perspective of systemic functional linguistics (SFL), lexical metaphors are recognized as a resource for enacting interpersonal meaning in discourse. Within theappraisalframework, they constitute a means for ‘provoking’ an attitudinal interpretation. While the interpersonal function of lexical metaphors is well recognized in SFL, there have been relatively few studies that focus specifically on their deployment in the construction of recurring rhetorical strategies in discourse. This is explored in this study in the context of media editorials. It is found that there are patterns in the choices of lexical metaphor, in the values they provoke and the experiential entities these values couple with. The reinforcement of these evaluative couplings in the flow of text functions to promote values similar to the provoked ones. The analyses also show that lexical metaphors propose bonds of affiliation to a putative readership and therefore foster the readers of the newspaper.
An evolutionarily conserved NIMA-related kinase directs rhizoid tip growth in the basal land plant Marchantia polymorpha
Authors: Otani Kento , Ishizaki Kimitsune , Nishihama Ryuichi , Takatani Shogo , Kohchi Takayuki , Takahashi Taku , Motose Hiroyasu
Published: February 2018

Tip growth is driven by turgor pressure and mediated by the polarized accumulation of cellular materials. How a single polarized growth site is established and maintained is unclear. Here, we analyzed the function of NIMA-related protein kinase 1 (MpNEK1) in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. In the wild type, rhizoid cells differentiate from the ventral epidermis and elongate through tip growth to form hair-like protrusions. In Mpnek1 knockout mutants, rhizoids underwent frequent changes in growth direction, resulting in a twisted and/or spiral morphology. The functional MpNEK1-Citrine protein fusion localized to microtubule foci in the apical growing region of rhizoids. Mpnek1 knockouts exhibited increases in both microtubule density and bundling in the apical dome of rhizoids. Treatment with the microtubule-stabilizing drug taxol phenocopied the Mpnek1 knockout. These results suggest that MpNEK1 directs tip growth in rhizoids through microtubule organization. Furthermore, MpNEK1 expression rescued ectopic outgrowth of epidermal cells in the Arabidopsis thaliana nek6 mutant, strongly supporting an evolutionarily conserved NEK-dependent mechanism of directional growth. It is possible that such a mechanism contributed to the evolution of the early rooting system in land plants.
Variant cell cycles regulated by Notch signaling control cell size and ensure a functional blood-brain barrier
Authors: Von Stetina Jessica R. , Frawley Laura E. , Unhavaithaya Yingdee , Orr-Weaver Terry L.
Published: February 2018

Regulation of cell size is crucial in development. In plants and animals two cell cycle variants are employed to generate large cells by increased ploidy: the endocycle and endomitosis. The rationale behind the choice of which of these cycles is implemented is unknown. We show that in the Drosophila nervous system the subperineurial glia (SPG) are unique in using both the endocycle and endomitosis to grow. In the brain, the majority of SPG initially endocycle, then switch to endomitosis during larval development. The Notch signaling pathway and the String Cdc25 phosphatase are crucial for the endocycle versus endomitosis choice, providing the means experimentally to change cells from one to the other. This revealed fundamental insights into the control of cell size and the properties of endomitotic cells. Endomitotic cells attain a higher ploidy and larger size than endocycling cells, and endomitotic SPG are necessary for the blood-brain barrier. Decreased Notch signaling promotes endomitosis even in the ventral nerve cord SPG that normally are mononucleate, but not in the endocycling salivary gland cells, revealing tissue-specific cell cycle responses.
A molecular framework controlling style morphology in Brassicaceae
Authors: Simonini Sara , Stephenson Pauline , Østergaard Lars
Published: February 2018

Organ formation in multicellular organisms depends on the coordinated activities of regulatory components that integrate developmental and hormonal cues to control gene expression and mediate cell-type specification. For example, development of the Arabidopsis gynoecium is tightly controlled by distribution and synthesis of the plant hormone auxin. The functions of several transcription factors (TFs) have been linked with auxin dynamics during gynoecium development; yet how their activities are coordinated is not known. Here, we show that five such TFs function together to ensure polarity establishment at the gynoecium apex. The auxin response factor ETTIN (ARF3; herein, ETT) is a central component of this framework. Interaction of ETT with TF partners is sensitive to the presence of auxin and our results suggest that ETT forms part of a repressive gene-regulatory complex. We show that this function is conserved between members of the Brassicaceae family and that variation in an ETT subdomain affects interaction strengths and gynoecium morphology. These results suggest that variation in affinities between conserved TFs can lead to morphological differences and thus contribute to the evolution of diverse organ shapes.
Reduced expression of the Nodal co-receptor Oep causes loss of mesendodermal competence in zebrafish
Authors: Vopalensky Pavel , Pralow Sabrina , Vastenhouw Nadine L.
Published: February 2018

The activation of specific gene expression programs depends on the presence of the appropriate signals and the competence of cells to respond to those signals. Although it is well established that cellular competence is regulated in space and time, the molecular mechanisms underlying the loss of competence remain largely unknown. Here, we determine the time window during which zebrafish prospective ectoderm loses its ability to respond to Nodal signals, and show that this coincides with a decrease in the levels of the Nodal co-receptor One-eyed pinhead (Oep). Bypassing Oep using a photoactivatable receptor, or an Oep-independent ligand, allows activation of Nodal target genes for an extended period of time. These results suggest that the reduced expression of Oep causes the loss of responsiveness to Nodal signals in the prospective ectoderm. Indeed, extending the presence of Oep prolongs the window of competence to respond to Nodal signals. Our findings suggest a simple mechanism in which the decreasing level of one component of the Nodal signaling pathway regulates the loss of mesendodermal competence in the prospective ectoderm.
Mechanical strain regulates the Hippo pathway in Drosophila
Authors: Fletcher Georgina C. , Diaz-de-la-Loza Maria-del-Carmen , Borreguero-Muñoz Nerea , Holder Maxine , Aguilar-Aragon Mario , Thompson Barry J.
Published: February 2018

Animal cells are thought to sense mechanical forces via the transcriptional co-activators YAP (or YAP1) and TAZ (or WWTR1), the sole Drosophila homolog of which is named Yorkie (Yki). In mammalian cells in culture, artificial mechanical forces induce nuclear translocation of YAP and TAZ. Here, we show that physiological mechanical strain can also drive nuclear localisation of Yki and activation of Yki target genes in the Drosophila follicular epithelium. Mechanical strain activates Yki by stretching the apical domain, reducing the concentration of apical Crumbs, Expanded, Kibra and Merlin, and reducing apical Hippo kinase dimerisation. Overexpressing Hippo kinase to induce ectopic activation in the cytoplasm is sufficient to prevent Yki nuclear localisation even in flattened follicle cells. Conversely, blocking Hippo signalling in warts clones causes Yki nuclear localisation even in columnar follicle cells. We find no evidence for involvement of other pathways, such as Src42A kinase, in regulation of Yki. Finally, our results in follicle cells appear generally applicable to other tissues, as nuclear translocation of Yki is also readily detectable in other flattened epithelial cells such as the peripodial epithelium of the wing imaginal disc, where it promotes cell flattening.
Phosphorylation states change Otx2 activity for cell proliferation and patterning in the Xenopus embryo
Authors: Satou Yumeko , Minami Kohei , Hosono Erina , Okada Hajime , Yasuoka Yuuri , Shibano Takashi , Tanaka Toshiaki , Taira Masanori
Published: February 2018

The homeodomain transcription factor Otx2 has essential roles in head and eye formation via the negative and positive regulation of its target genes, but it remains elusive how this dual activity of Otx2 affects cellular functions. In the current study, we first demonstrated that both exogenous and endogenous Otx2 are phosphorylated at multiple sites. Using Xenopus embryos, we identified three possible cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) sites and one Akt site, and analyzed the biological activities of phosphomimetic (4E) and nonphosphorylatable (4A) mutants for those sites. In the neuroectoderm, the 4E but not the 4A mutant downregulated the Cdk inhibitor gene p27xic1 (cdknx) and posterior genes, and promoted cell proliferation, possibly forming a positive-feedback loop consisting of Cdk, Otx2 and p27xic1 for cell proliferation, together with anteriorization. Conversely, the 4A mutant functioned as an activator on its own and upregulated the expression of eye marker genes, resulting in enlarged eyes. Consistent with these results, the interaction of Otx2 with the corepressor Tle1 is suggested to be phosphorylation dependent. These data suggest that Otx2 orchestrates cell proliferation, anteroposterior patterning and eye formation via its phosphorylation state.
Intestinal epithelial cell polarity defects in disease: lessons from microvillus inclusion disease
Authors: Schneeberger Kerstin , Roth Sabrina , Nieuwenhuis Edward E. S. , Middendorp Sabine
Published: February 2018

The intestinal epithelium is a highly organized tissue. The establishment of epithelial cell polarity, with distinct apical and basolateral plasma membrane domains, is pivotal for both barrier formation and for the uptake and vectorial transport of nutrients. The establishment of cell polarity requires a specialized subcellular machinery to transport and recycle proteins to their appropriate location. In order to understand and treat polarity-associated diseases, it is necessary to understand epithelial cell-specific trafficking mechanisms. In this Review, we focus on cell polarity in the adult mammalian intestine. We discuss how intestinal epithelial polarity is established and maintained, and how disturbances in the trafficking machinery can lead to a polarity-associated disorder, microvillus inclusion disease (MVID). Furthermore, we discuss the recent developments in studying MVID, including the creation of genetically manipulated cell lines, mouse models and intestinal organoids, and their uses in basic and applied research.
Environmental calcium and variation in yolk sac size influence swimming performance in larval lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens)
Authors: Deslauriers David , Svendsen Jon C. , Genz Janet , Wall Alex J. , Baktoft Henrik , Enders Eva C. , Anderson W. Gary
Published: February 2018

In many animal species, performance in the early life stages strongly affects recruitment to the adult population; however, factors that influence early life history stages are often the least understood. This is particularly relevant for lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, living in areas where environmental calcium concentrations are declining, partly due to anthropogenic activity. As calcium is important for muscle contraction and fatigue resistance, declining calcium levels could constrain swimming performance. Similarly, swimming performance could be influenced by variation in yolk sac volume, because the yolk sac is likely to affect drag forces during swimming. Testing swimming performance of larval A. fulvescens reared in four different calcium treatments spanning the range of 4-132 mg l−1 [Ca2+], this study found no treatment effects on the sprint swimming speed. A novel test of volitional swimming performance, however, revealed reduced swimming performance in the low calcium environment. Specifically, volitionally swimming larvae covered a shorter distance before swimming cessation in the low calcium environment compared to the other treatments. Moreover, sprint swimming speed in larvae with a large yolk sac was significantly slower than in larvae with a small yolk sac, regardless of body length variation. Thus, elevated maternal allocation (i.e., more yolk) was associated with reduced swimming performance. Data suggest that larvae in low calcium environments or with a large yolk sac exhibit reduced swimming performance and could be more susceptible to predation or premature downstream drift. Our study reveals how environmental factors and phenotypic variation influence locomotor performance in a larval fish.
The relationship between economic and social development with competitiveness: An empirical study
Authors: Rontos Kostas , Syrmali Maria-Eleni , Vavouras Ioannis
Published: February 2018

The prevalence of institutional weaknesses largely unveils the existence of inherent economic and social underdevelopment as well as persistent bottlenecks of political nature, which in principle are more intense in lessdeveloped countries. In this study, by using a global sample of developed and developing countries it is proved that the relationship between corruption, which is a serious institutional deficiency, and income is not a symmetric one. However, the effective control of corruption should not be considered as a “quasi luxury good” the demand of which increases once the level of income rises to a certain level. On the contrary, it may beachieved through the adoption and effective implementation of the appropriate long-run policies and institutional reforms.
VARIOUS RESOURCES OF IMPORT SUBSTITUTION FOR RAW MATERIAL FOR BREWING INDUSTRY OF BASHKORTOSTAN
Authors: Кадиков Рустем , Kadikov Rustem , Михкельман В. , Mihkel'man V.
Published: February 2018

Field studies in the northern and southern forest-steppe zones of Bashkortostan determine the parameters of yield, grain quality and ecological adaptability of brewing barley varieties. The competitive advantage of the barley of Mikhailovskiy variety is revealed, which most consistently implements the high yield potential and brewing properties of grain by years and zones of the Republic.