bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining Hazards
Authors: Bertrand Darrian , Shafer Mark
Published: August 2016

State hazard mitigation plans guide state and local agencies in actions they may take to reduce their vulnerability to extreme events. However, because they are written for a general audience, they must be written in a way for a layperson to understand. In many cases, the people writing these plans are not meteorologists or do not have access to meteorological expertise. Consequently, descriptions of hazards may be taken from websites, other documents, or perhaps authoritative sources. This leads to inconsistencies in the way hazards are portrayed in the plans, which increases the difficulty of translating proposed actions to local governments or to other states.

This article delves into the issue of these variances and how it affects those who write state hazard mitigation plans. For this brief text, the hazards discussed in state plans that fall in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA) Southern Climate Impacts Planning Program (SCIPP)’s region are covered with a comparison of definitions from the National Weather Service (NWS) and the American Meteorological Society (AMS). States within the SCIPP region include Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. This study found that it is more common for states to use key words from NWS and AMS hazard definitions than to use exact definitions. The goal of this article is to prompt a discussion about the inconsistency of terminology used in state hazard mitigation plans and to spread awareness of this issue so that future plans can keep their unique elements while providing a better description and understanding of the included hazards.
The Impact of Vertical Measurement Depth on the Information Content of Soil Moisture for Latent Heat Flux Estimation
Authors: Qiu Jianxiu , Crow Wade T. , Nearing Grey S.
Published: July 2016

This study aims to identify the impact of vertical support on the information content of soil moisture (SM) for latent heat flux estimation. This objective is achieved via calculation of the mutual information (MI) content between multiple soil moisture variables (with different vertical supports) and current/future evaporative fraction (EF) using ground-based soil moisture and latent/sensible heat flux observations acquired from the AmeriFlux network within the contiguous United States. Through the intercomparison of MI results from different SM–EF pairs, the general value (for latent heat flux estimation) of superficial soil moisture observations , vertically integrated soil moisture observations , and vertically extrapolated soil moisture time series [soil wetness index (SWI) from a simple low-pass transformation of ] are examined. Results suggest that, contrary to expectations, 2-day averages of and have comparable mutual information with regards to EF. That is, there is no clear evidence that the information content for flux estimation is enhanced via deepening the vertical support of superficial soil moisture observations. In addition, the utility of SWI in monitoring and forecasting EF is partially dependent on the adopted parameterization of time-scale parameter T in the exponential filter. Similar results are obtained when analyses are conducted at the monthly time scale, only with larger error bars. The contrast between the results of this paper and past work focusing on utilizing soil moisture to predict vegetation condition demonstrates that the particular application should be considered when characterizing the information content of soil moisture time series measurements.
Spectral Characteristics of Convective-Scale Precipitation Observations and Forecasts
Authors: Wong May , Skamarock William C.
Published: July 2016

As an alternative to traditional precipitation analysis and forecast verification, 1D and 2D spectral decompositions of NCEP/Stage IV and Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) precipitation products and convective-scale model forecasts are examined. Both the stage IV and MRMS analyses and the model forecasts show a similar weak power-law behavior in 1D spectral decompositions, although the MRMS analysis does not drop off in power at wavelengths less than approximately 20 km as found in the stage IV analysis. The convective-scale forecasts produce similar behavior to the MRMS when the forecast model’s effective resolution is sufficient. Neither the MRMS analyses nor the forecasts suggest the existence of a break in the spectral slope at the scales for which the analyses and forecasts are valid. The 2D spectra of both observations and forecasts, expressed in terms of an absolute wavenumber and azimuthal angle, show power varying significantly as a function of azimuthal angle for a given wavenumber. This azimuthal anisotropy is significant, and is dominated by the second mode (wavenumber 2). The phase of the mode is the result of the orientation of precipitation features and, hence, convective system orientations and propagation. Observations show a shift in orientation (phase) over May–June–July. The convective forecasts reproduce this shift in phase, although with a consistent but small phase error.
NAQFC Developmental Forecast Guidance for Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Authors: Lee Pius , McQueen Jeffery , Stajner Ivanka , Huang Jianping , Pan Li , Tong Daniel , Kim Hyuncheol , Tang Youhua , Kondragunta Shobha , Ruminski Mark , Lu Sarah , Rogers Eric , Saylor Rick , Shafran Perry , Huang Ho-Chun , Gorline Jerry , Upadhayay Sikchya , Artz Richard
Published: July 2016

The National Air Quality Forecasting Capability (NAQFC) upgraded its modeling system that provides developmental numerical predictions of particulate matter smaller than 2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) in January 2015. The issuance of PM2.5 forecast guidance has become more punctual and reliable because developmental PM2.5 predictions are provided from the same system that produces operational ozone predictions on the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) supercomputers.

There were three major upgrades in January 2015: 1) incorporation of real-time intermittent sources for particles emitted from wildfires and windblown dust originating within the NAQFC domain, 2) suppression of fugitive dust emissions from snow- and/or ice-covered terrain, and 3) a shorter life cycle for organic nitrate in the gaseous-phase chemical mechanism. In May 2015 a further upgrade for emission sources was included using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2011 National Emission Inventory (NEI). Emissions for ocean-going ships and on-road mobile sources will continue to rely on NEI 2005.

Incremental tests and evaluations of these upgrades were performed over multiple seasons. They were verified against the EPA’s AIRNow surface monitoring network for air pollutants. Impacts of the three upgrades on the prediction of surface PM2.5 concentrations show large regional variability: the inclusion of windblown dust emissions in May 2014 improved PM2.5 predictions over the western states and the suppression of fugitive dust in January 2015 reduced PM2.5 bias by 52%, from 6.5 to 3.1 μg m−3 against a monthly average of 9.4 μg m−3 for the north-central United States.
Output Synchronization of the Indian Economy in the Post-reform Period
Authors: Rajesh Raj
Published: July 2016

This article examines whether cyclical fluctuation in India’s output was synchronized with other major economies of the world in post-reform period. Using panel GMM estimation, it is established that in the post-reform period cyclical output of Indian economy shared a common trend with some of the advanced economies and the emerging market economies. The sources of such business cycle synchronization were found to be increased trade intensity, similarities in productive structure, similar monetary policy stance and events of major economic crises. This suggests that Indian economy cannot remain decoupled from major economic crises in the global economy and, therefore, Indian policymakers need to factor in global events in their policy response function.
Exchange Rate Pass-through to Domestic Prices
Authors: Mendali Ganapati , Das Sanjukta
Published: July 2016

This study makes an attempt to examine the exchange rate pass-through (ERPT) to domestic prices in the post-reform period in India. It also analyzes the effect of global financial crisis of 2007 on the ERPT. It has used the standard vector auto-regression (VAR) model taking five variables (viz., exchange rate, oil price, output gap, money supply and wholesale price index (WPI)) for analysis. Using impulse response function, the study finds that a 10 per cent depreciation in rupee (`) results in 0.011 per cent rise in WPI after one month. It found moderate ERPT estimates ranging from 0.01112 per cent (after first month) to 0.01197 per cent (after six months). The cumulative pass-through is found to be 0.07 for one month, it is stabilized at 0.06. The main drivers of price change are identified through variance decomposition. Persistently rising WPI and the oil price hike are found as the main drivers of price rise. Pressure of exchange rate on the WPI is found to be very modest, that is, about 7 per cent. Using the Quandt-Andrews Unknown Breakpoint test, the study found a structural break at November 2007, but the effect of the crisis on ERPT is found to be insignificant. The study explains the low ERPT in terms of India’s large import size and its composition in favour of raw materials and intermediary goods, exchange rate volatility and moderate inflation. It reduces the apprehension of domestic price instability arising from the floating exchange rate.
Student- and school-level belonging and commitment and student smoking, drinking and misbehaviour
Authors: Bonell Christopher , Shackleton Nichola , Fletcher Adam , Jamal Farah , Allen Elizabeth , Mathiot Anne , Markham Wolfgang , Aveyard Paul , Viner Russell
Published: July 2016

Objectives:

It has been suggested that students are healthier in schools where more students are committed to school. Previous research has examined this only using a proxy measure of value-added education (a measure of whether school-level attendance and attainment are higher than predicted by students’ social profile), finding associations with smoking tobacco, use of alcohol and illicit drugs, and violence. These findings do not provide direct insights into the associations between school-level aggregate student commitment and health behaviours, and may simply reflect the proxy measure being residually confounded by unmeasured student characteristics. We examined the previously used proxy measure of value-added education, as well as direct measures at the level of the school and the student of lack of student commitment to school to see whether these were associated with students’ self-reported smoking tobacco, alcohol use and school misbehaviour.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting:

A total of 40 schools in south-east England.

Methods:

Multi-level analyses.

Results:

There were associations between school- and student-level measures of lack of commitment to school and tobacco smoking, alcohol use and school misbehaviour outcomes, but the proxy measure of school-level commitment, value-added education, was not associated with these outcomes. A sensitivity analysis focused only on violent aspects of school misbehaviour found a pattern of associations identical to that found for the measure of misbehaviour.

Conclusion:

Our study provides the first direct evidence in support of the Theory of Human Functioning and School Organisation.
The effects of nano-silica/nano-alumina on fatigue behavior of glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Fathy A , Shaker A , Hamid M Abdel , Megahed AA
Published: July 2016

This paper presents an experimental and statistical study of the fatigue behavior of unidirectional glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composite rods manufactured using pultrusion technique and modified with nanoparticles of alumina (Al2O3) and silica (SiO2) at four different weight fractions (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 wt.%). Tensile test was performed to investigate the influence of nanoparticles. Addition of alumina nanoparticles up to 3 wt.% increases the tensile strength by 54.76% over the pure glass fiber-reinforced epoxy specimen. For silica nanoparticles, there is an increase in the tensile strength of 31.29% for the content of 0.5 wt.% over the pure glass fiber-reinforced epoxy specimen. As the silica nanoparticles’ content increases over 0.5 wt.%, there is a decrease in the tensile strength. Rotating bending fatigue tests have been conducted at five different stress levels. Fatigue life of glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composite rods modified with alumina nanoparticles increases as the content of the nanoparticles increases. The effect of adding silica nanoparticles on the fatigue life of glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composite rods is relatively insignificant with a small improvement in the content of 0.5 wt.% silica above the pure glass fiber-reinforced epoxy specimens. Two-parameter Weibull distribution function was used to statistically analyze the fatigue life data.
The Importance of Serine Phosphorylation of Ameloblastin on Enamel Formation
Authors: Ma P. , Yan W. , Tian Y. , He J. , Brookes S.J. , Wang X.
Published: July 2016

FAM20C is a newly identified kinase on the secretory pathway responsible for the phosphorylation of serine residues in the Ser-x-Glu/pSer motifs in several enamel matrix proteins. Fam20C-knockout mice showed severe enamel defects very similar to those in the ameloblastin ( Ambn)–knockout mice, implying that phosphoserines may have a critical role in AMBN function. To test this hypothesis, we generated amelogenin ( Amel) promoter-driven Ambn-transgenic mice, in which Ser48, Ser226, and Ser227 were replaced by aspartic acid (designated as D-Tg) or alanines (designated as A-Tg). The negative charge of aspartic acid is believed to be able to mimic the phosphorylation state of serine, while alanine is a commonly used residue to substitute serine due to their similar structure. Using Western immunoblotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the authors identified transgenic lines expressing transgenes somewhat higher (Tg+) or much higher (Tg++) than endogenous Ambn. The lower incisors collected from 7-d-old and 7-wk-old mice were analyzed by histology, scanning electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and Western immunoblotting to examine the morphology and microstructure changes in enamel, as well as the expression pattern of enamel matrix proteins. The A-Tg+ and A-Tg++ mice displayed severe enamel defects in spite of the expression level of transgenes, while the D-Tg+ and D-Tg++ mice showed minor to mild enamel defects, indicating that the D-Tg transgenes disturbed enamel formation less than the A-Tg transgenes did. Our results suggest that the phosphorylation state of serines is likely an essential component for the integrity of AMBN function.
Narcissistic Vulnerability and Addiction
Authors: Karakoula Paraskevi , Triliva Sofia
Published: July 2016

The main body of research on addiction and pathological narcissism has focused on the study of their co-occurrence by applying Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM) definitions for these clinical phenomena or by assessing trait narcissism in substance-dependent populations. Clinically informed comprehensive conceptualizations of narcissism which focus on its phenomenological range from vulnerability to grandiosity have not been applied in studying the specific narcissistic disturbances that underlie the relationship between these comorbid conditions. Aiming to examine this relationship, this study compared the presence of pathological narcissism, and more specifically narcissistic grandiosity and vulnerability, in substance-dependent individuals in treatment with individuals from the general population. Comparisons indicate that substance-dependent individuals experience significant narcissistic disturbances more likely related to vulnerability than grandiosity. Shame, rage, and self-esteem contingent upon external validation comprise the intrapsychic and interpersonal vulnerability. Implications for the clinical conceptualization of pathological narcissism as well as for substance dependence treatment interventions are discussed.
Effect of Age Group on Technical–Tactical Performance Profile of the Serve in Men’s Volleyball
Authors: García-de-Alcaraz Antonio , Ortega Enrique , Palao José M.
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze the technical–tactical performance profile of the serve for various age groups and categories of competition in men’s volleyball. The sample comprised 13,262 serves performed by 986 players in 299 sets observed in various categories of competition (U-14, U-16, U-19, national senior, and international senior). An observational design was used. The variables studied were category of competition, type of execution, and serve performance. The results showed that for higher age groups (senior categories), there were significantly fewer jump serves and poorer serve performance, regardless of players’ maturity and training development. The use of the jump serves increased the serve risk while attempting to hinder the organization of the opponent attack. This paper discusses the serve evolution and the implications on the training process at the different age groups in men’s volleyball.
A case of pulmonary placental transmogrification
Authors: Jenkins Joanne M , Attia Rizwan Q , Green Anna , Cane Paul , Pilling John
Published: July 2016

Pulmonary placental transmogrification is a rare lung lesion that microscopically resembles placenta with cystic spaces filled with papillary structures. Considered a histological variant of bullous emphysema, only 30 reported cases have been published in the world’s literature. We report a rare case of pulmonary placental transmogrification in a 72-year-old man, in whom the clinical presentation of the disease mimicked lung carcinoma. Histopathology of the surgically resected segment showed a complex bulla with squamous metaplasia and placental transmogrification. Whilst rare, pulmonary placental transmogrification must be ruled out in all patients presenting with unilateral bullous emphysema, without known risk factors.
Perceived entrepreneurial munificence and entrepreneurial intentions: A social cognitive perspective
Authors: Bacq Sophie , Ofstein Laurel F , Kickul Jill R , Gundry Lisa K
Published: July 2016

Adopting a social cognitive theory perspective, this article examines the factors that influence entrepreneurial intentions through the interaction between cognitive factors and perceived environmental munificence. Specifically, it introduces and demonstrates that the effect of one’s perceived ability to become an entrepreneur on the intention to engage in such a behaviour is contingent upon the perception of an environment rich in entrepreneurial munificence, in this case, within an incubator setting. Perceived entrepreneurial munificence also helps strengthen the relationship between risk-taking propensity and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Results and implications for future research on entrepreneurial intentions at the interface between cognitive and environmental factors are discussed.
Postsocialist informality: The making of owners, squatters and state rule in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (1989–1993)
Authors: Collins Erin
Published: July 2016

In this paper, I analyze struggles over land in the capital city of Phnom Penh in the course of Cambodia's postsocialist transition. In 1989 Cambodia's socialist regime adopted a set of liberal reforms including comprehensive land reform. While land reform was a source of authority for the regime, the rapidity and unevenness of the land reform process created deep divisions within its state apparatus itself. Drawing on land disputes filed with the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia in 1992 and 1993, I document shifting conditions of ownership and authority in the city. I first discuss the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia land dispute files in general, before analyzing two, group disputes over formerly state lands in detail. Struggles over formerly state lands were particularly contentious, as who could claim, govern, and allocate these lands was an open question in the transitional period. I argue that these struggles were integral to the remaking of state rule. I use the term “postsocialist informality” to foreground this particular historical moment of state–society reconfiguration, while also underscoring the political constitution of the categories of public and private, owner and squatter, themselves.
Decision Making and Communication in a Statewide Interagency Task Force
Authors: Hoelscher Carrisa S. , Kramer Michael W. , Nguyen Christopher , Cooper Olivia D. , Day Eric Anthony
Published: July 2016

This study examines the proposed and utilized decision-making processes of an interagency taskforce formed to create a strategic plan for addressing substance abuse concerns. Analysis of data obtained through prolonged observation, interviews, and document collection indicated that, although the planned structure remained relatively intact, the taskforce deviated from planned decision-making processes in the procedures and decision-making criteria utilized. These deviations were justified through retrospective rationality and strategic ambiguity. Although prior research has described decision making using rational, satisficing, and garbage can models, the theoretical implications of this study point to a renewed understanding of collaborative decision making combining these approaches. Ultimately, this study illustrates how the characteristics of a loosely coupled, bona fide interorganizational group both enabled and constrained the decision-making process. Accordingly, practitioners and scholars alike should consider the advantages and limitations of retrospective rationality and strategic ambiguity across a variety of group and organizational contexts.
Effectiveness of particle and mass impact damping on tool vibration during hard turning process
Authors: Paul P Sam , Raja Prashanth , Aruldhas Philip , Pringle Sam , Shaji Elvin
Published: July 2016

In the machine tools, tool vibration is an undesirable phenomenon which affects tool life, quality of machined surface and produces irritating noise. This tool vibration is due to the interaction between metal cutting process and forces acting on the machine tool. In this investigation, an attempt was made to reduce tool vibration during turning of hardened steel using particle and mass impact dampers. A mass impact damper used in this investigation consists of a concentrated mass made of copper mounted on the bottom of the tool holder and particle damper consists of copper particles of 3.5 mm diameter positioned along the axis of the tool holder. Particle size and its location were designed using computational analysis and impact hammer–based modal testing was performed for both dampers. When these dampers were mounted on the tool holder, particles will collide with each other and subdue the vibration produced in the tool holder. Cutting experiments were conducted to study the influence of mass and particle damping on tool vibration and cutting performance during turning of hardened AISI4340 steel using hard metal insert with sculptured rake face. From the results, it was observed that the use of mass impact and particle dampers enhances the rigidity of the tool holder which, in turn, reduces tool vibration and improves the cutting performance. Among the two dampers, it was found that the presence of mass impact damping provides superior cutting performance when compared to particle damping.
Anemia Status in Relation to Body Mass Index Among Women of Childbearing Age in Bangladesh
Authors: Ghose Bishwajit , Yaya Sanni , Tang Shangfeng
Published: July 2016

Undernutrition and micronutrient deficiency disorders together constitute a major public health concern in Bangladesh. Among many vitamin and mineral deficiency diseases, iron-deficiency anemia remains the most persistent and has been shown to contribute to high maternal and child morbidity and mortality in the country. In parallel with micronutrient malnutrition, the country is also experiencing a rising epidemic of overweight and obesity due to changing pattern in dietary behavior and body mass index status. Previous empirical studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between body weight and anemia status. However, results remain inconclusive and for Bangladesh such evidence is nonexistent. To this end, we conducted this study using Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2011 data with an aim to explore the association between body mass index and anemia status among adult women in Bangladesh. According to the findings, age between 15 and 29 years ( P < .001, OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.12-1.49), experiencing first birth before reaching the age of 18 years ( P < .001, OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.15-1.50), lack of access to potable water ( P = .013, OR = 1.467, 95%CI = 1.085- 1.982), being underweight ( P < .001, 95% CI = 1.208-1.570) and normal weight ( P < .001, 95% CI = 1.819-2.516) were significantly associated with anemia status.
The making of uniform costing in a war economy: The case of the Uniconti Commission in Fascist Italy
Authors: Cinquini Lino , Giannetti Riccardo , Tenucci Andrea
Published: July 2016

This article analyses the experience of the Uniconti Commission in setting rules of uniform costing in Italy during World War II (WWII). This initiative was promoted by the Italian Fascist government and the Confederazione dell’Industria (Industry Confederation) in 1941. The purpose of the study is to investigate the process of setting the uniform costing rules and “why” and “how” they were designed. This is done according to a Foucauldian perspective that allows the problematization of accounting as a complex phenomenon, the emergence and functioning of which is linked to context and dependent on the interplay of different influences. Starting from the aims inspired by the totalitarian ideology of the government that promoted the Commission, the analysis is grounded on archival primary sources and provides perspectives on the making of new accounting rules by examining the interplay among participants in the process. The article provides evidence of the complex interplay between knowledge, techniques, institutions and ideology in setting accounting rules in a totalitarian context, marked by a prevailing role of ideology and state in the regulation of the economy.
The Impact of Traditional Health Beliefs on the Health Practices of Women From Southern Taiwan
Authors: Li Ching-Chu , Hsu Kan-Lin , Chen Chih-Hsuan , Shu Bih-Ching
Published: July 2016

Purpose: This study investigated the health beliefs of Taiwanese women in Anping, an urban district in Taiwan that was introduced to Western medicine in the 1860s. Design: A qualitative design with content analysis was used. Fourteen Anping women aged 44 to 84 years were interviewed. Results: The women integrated both traditional and Western biomedicine without any dissonance. Three themes were found: cultural beliefs about medicine–diet homology or the lack of a distinction between medicine and food, reliance on both doctor and deity, and a pattern of health practice based on situational decision making about which health practice to employ. Implications: Understanding health-related viewpoints in Chinese culture and its rationale will help health workers provide culturally competent care.
Palliative Care in Undergraduate Medical Education—How Far Have We Come?
Authors: Fitzpatrick Danielle , Heah Rebecca , Patten Simon , Ward Helena
Published: July 2016

Purpose:

There is an increasing demand for quality palliative care teaching within undergraduate medical education. Studies suggest that many junior doctors feel underprepared to perform end-of-life care. Previous systematic reviews on palliative care teaching within medical schools have identified significant variability and lack of consistency in teaching. This review aims to update the literature on the current status of palliative care teaching to undergraduates within medical schools.

Method:

A systematic review was undertaken on articles published from December 2001 to November 2015 on palliative care teaching for undergraduate medical students. In all, 650 abstract citations were obtained, of which 126 were relevant to the research questions. Thematic analysis was performed on remaining articles according to whether they discussed content and/or methodology of palliative care education, and data collated.

Results:

There is greater consistency in the content being delivered as part of end-of-life care education within medical schools. The most frequently taught topics include attitudes to death and dying, communication skills, and pain management. Pediatric care and religious/cultural issues are less frequently addressed. Teaching institutions are also utilising a broader range of teaching modalities.

Conclusion:

There is significant progress in palliative care education within medical schools. Ongoing challenges relate to correlating our current practice in medical education to professional recommendations and the expressed needs of junior doctors to practice competent end-of-life care.
Development and Initial Validation of a New Practice Context Assessment Tool for Ambulatory Practices Engaged in Quality Improvement
Authors: Jager Andrew J. , Choudhry Shahid A. , Marsteller Jill A. , Telford Robin P. , Wynia Matthew K.
Published: July 2016

Variable success with quality improvement (QI) efforts in ambulatory care is often attributed to differences in local contexts. Identifying and addressing patient-, practice-, or community-level contextual factors might improve implementation of QI projects. The authors developed and validated a framework for a Practice Context Assessment (PCA), and then created the PCA instrument to glean insights from staff on contextual factors and distributed it at 10 ambulatory practice sites. The PCA framework showed acceptable expert-assessed content validity, with content validity index scores ranging from 0.74 (community engagement) to 0.97 (leadership). The PCA instrument comprised several scales grouped into 7 domains with Cronbach α scores from 0.83 (leadership) to 0.95 (patient and family engagement). The PCA framework provides a valid construct to help ambulatory practices understand contextual issues that might influence QI projects. A revised version of the PCA instrument is now ready for further testing.
Functional Assessment of School Attendance Problems: An Adapted Version of the School Refusal Assessment Scale–Revised
Authors: Heyne David A. , Vreeke Leonie J. , Maric Marija , Boelens Harrie , Van Widenfelt Brigit M.
Published: July 2016

The School Refusal Assessment Scale (SRAS) was developed to identify four factors that might maintain a youth’s school attendance problem (SAP), and thus be targeted for treatment. There is still limited support for the four-factor model inherent to the SRAS and its revision (SRAS-R). Recent studies indicate problems with the wording of eight items added to the SRAS to form the SRAS-R. We examined the factorial validity of an adapted item set comprising 16 of the 24 SRAS-R items and eight items developed for this study. The eight items paralleled the content of the SRAS-R items being replaced but were less complex and ambiguous. Data were gathered from 199 youth with a SAP and 131 parents. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the adapted item set supported a four-factor model. Internal consistency reliability of the subscales was higher than it is commonly reported in SRAS-R studies. Concurrent validity was supported by associations between the four factors and measures of internalizing or externalizing behavior. The adapted SRAS-R may help professionals reliably assess the relative strength of factors maintaining SAPs. This is one of the few studies conducted independent of the instrument’s developer and in a school culture different from that where the instrument is usually tested.
A time for play: Interstitial time, Invest/Express games, and feminine leisure style
Authors: Chess Shira
Published: July 2016

Games such as FarmVille and other casuals played on social networks and mobile devices have recently become increasingly popular. Research on Social Networking Games (SNGs) often focuses on the “social” aspects—how this newer style of games engenders social relationships from disparate locations. This essay examines the genre of gaming in terms of their industry category, “Invest/Express Games.” Using the Invest/Express label as a means of rethinking the role of interstitial time, this essay proposes that the gaming style taps in to what can be understood as “feminine leisure style.” In many ways, the significance of Invest/Express embodies a shift toward a feminization of popular video games.
Case Report
Authors: Naran Sanjay , Imbriglia Joseph E.
Published: July 2016

Background: A case is discussed in which a young girl was born with symbrachydactyly of multiple digits in whom nonvascularized proximal toe phalanges were transferred to the aphalangic digits at the age of four. At 39 years of age, she presented incidentally to our clinic and was observed to have a very functional hand with mobile metacarpophalangeal joints in all reconstructed digits. Methods: We present a case report which is discussed in the context of long-term follow-up, and phalangeal growth in the absence of distraction, and a review of the current literature in regards to outcomes for this modality of treatment. Results: We document growth of the transplanted phalanges, despite surgery occurring after the reported optimum age of before 18 months, and the patient not undergoing distraction. The patient reported no donor site morbidity in regards to function or psychosocial impact. Furthermore, we observed active function at the metacarpophalangeal joints of all operated digits. Conclusions: We report the longest follow-up (35 years) following nonvascularized proximal toe phalangeal transfer for short finger type symbrachydactyly. We highlight the long-term functional outcome of nonvascularized toe phalangeal transfers, and present an overview of the current outcome literature for this type of procedure, advocating that nonvascularized toe phalangeal transfers remain a viable treatment option for select cases of symbrachydactyly.
Venous Bridge Arterial Grafting for Thumb Replantation
Authors: Wagner Eric R. , Bishop Allen T. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: July 2016

Background: The purpose of this study is to describe a novel technique using an interposition vein graft for thumb replantation in these severe avulsion injuries. Methods: From 2002 to 2012, 8 patients underwent interposition venous bridge grafting from the dorsal radial artery at the anatomic snuffbox to the ulnar digital artery of the thumb. All patients had a traumatic thumb amputation with a severe injury to the ulnar digital artery. The technique began with bony stabilization; the radial artery at the anatomic snuffbox is exposed, vein graft harvested, and microsurgical end-to-side (proximally) and end-to-end (distally) anastomoses are carried out. Results: The average time to the operating room was 7.4 hours and time to reperfusion was 9.5 hours. At 3.1 years of follow-up, all 8 thumbs remained viable, without any need for revision procedures. The only complication was a metacarpal shaft nonunion treated successfully with iliac crest bone grafting. At last follow-up, all patients reported no or mild pain, with an average metacarpophalangeal (MCP) range of motion of 46.5°, and intact but diminished 2-point discrimination. All patients were able to return to work full-time. Conclusions: Due to the challenging nature of thumb avulsion injuries and the pronated position of the thumb, novel salvage alternatives are important. We describe a technique when no proximal vessels are available, using a vein to bridge the dorsal radial artery to the ulnar digital artery of the thumb. This novel arterial reconstruction has shown promise in thumb replantation associated with severe avulsion injuries.
You’ll Never Guess Who Wrote That
Authors: Lilienfeld Scott O. , Lynn Steven Jay
Published: July 2016

One can find psychological authors in the most unexpected places. We present a capsule summary of scholarly publications of psychological interest authored or coauthored by 78 surprising individuals, most of whom are celebrities or relatives of celebrities, historical figures, or people who have otherwise achieved visibility in academic circles, politics, religion, art, and diverse realms of popular culture. Still other publications are authored by individuals who are far better known for their contributions to popular than to academic psychology. The publications, stretching across more than two centuries, encompass a wide swath of domains of psychological inquiry and highlight the intersection of psychology with fields that fall outside its traditional borders, including public health, economics, law, neurosurgery, and even magic. Many of these scholarly contributions have enriched psychology and its allied disciplines, such as psychiatry, in largely unappreciated ways, and they illustrate the penetration of psychological knowledge into multiple scientific disciplines and everyday life. At the same time, our author list demonstrates that remarkable intellectual accomplishments in one scientific domain, such as physics, do not necessarily translate into success in psychology and underscores the distinction between intelligence, on the one hand, and critical thinking and wisdom, on the other.
Immunomodulatory properties of medicinal mushrooms: differential effects of water and ethanol extracts on NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity
Authors: Lu Chia-Chen , Hsu Ya-Jing , Chang Chih-Jung , Lin Chuan-Sheng , Martel Jan , Ojcius David M , Ko Yun-Fei , Lai Hsin-Chih , Young John D
Published: July 2016

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in Asian countries owing to their beneficial effects on health and longevity. Previous studies have reported that a single medicinal mushroom may produce both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on immune cells, depending on conditions, but the factors responsible for this apparent dichotomy remain obscure. We show here that water and ethanol extracts of cultured mycelium from various species ( Agaricus blazei Murrill, Antrodia cinnamomea, Ganoderma lucidum and Hirsutella sinensis) produce opposite effects on NK cells. Water extracts enhance NK cell cytotoxic activity against cancer cells, whereas ethanol extracts inhibit cytotoxicity. Water extracts stimulate the expression and production of cytolytic proteins (perforin and granulysin) and NKG2D/NCR cell surface receptors, and activate intracellular signaling kinases (ERK, JNK and p38). In contrast, ethanol extracts inhibit expression of cytolytic and cell surface receptors. Our results suggest that the mode of extraction of medicinal mushrooms may determine the nature of the immunomodulatory effects produced on immune cells, presumably owing to the differential solubility of stimulatory and inhibitory mediators. These findings have important implications for the preparation of medicinal mushrooms to prevent and treat human diseases.
Immunosuppression therapy in the management of peripartum cardiomyopathy: A case series and literature review
Authors: Basu Joyee , Redman Christopher , Ormerod Oliver
Published: July 2016

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a heart failure syndrome occurring late in pregnancy or during the early post-natal period. The pathophysiology of peripartum cardiomyopathy is not fully understood and various mechanisms have been postulated including an underlying inflammatory process. We here report four cases presenting with acute left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Three out of four of the patients presented with a left ventricular ejection fraction <30% and one with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35%. All made a full clinical recovery following treatment with high-dose intravenous steroids. This case series adds to the growing body of evidence for the role for immunosuppressants in the management of peripartum cardiomyopathy.
Childhood skin rashes
Authors: Bryant Michael
Published: July 2016

Skin rashes are among the most common reasons for a paediatric visit to a GP, often causing a good deal of anxiety and uncertainty among caregivers. This article provides descriptions of the numerous skin rashes that can affect children of different ages, as well as guidelines for managing a wide range of conditions.
Sarcoidosis incidence and prevalence: a nationwide register-based assessment in Sweden
Authors: Arkema Elizabeth V. , Grunewald Johan , Kullberg Susanna , Eklund Anders , Askling Johan
Published: July 2016

Our objective was to estimate the contemporary incidence and prevalence of sarcoidosis using Swedish population-based register data.

Adults with any sarcoidosis-coded visit were identified from the National Patient Register (hospitalisations 1964–2013 and outpatient care 2001–2013). Demographic and medication dispensing data were retrieved from national registers. We estimated the prevalence of sarcoidosis in 2013 overall and by county of residence. The incidence of sarcoidosis during 2003–2012 was estimated by sex, age, education level and year of diagnosis. Case definitions were varied to test their robustness.

More than 16 000 individuals had a history of sarcoidosis in 2013. When defined as two or more sarcoidosis-coded visits, the prevalence was 160 per 100 000. Using different definitions, the prevalence ranged from 152 (requiring a specialist visit) to 215 per 100 000 (only one visit required). The highest prevalence was observed in northern less densely populated counties. The incidence was 11.5 per 100 000 per year and varied by −10% to +30% depending on case definition. The incidence peaked in males aged 30–50 years and in females aged 50–60 years, but did not differ by education level and was stable over time.

This study represents the largest epidemiological investigation of sarcoidosis using population-based individual-level data. Age at diagnosis in men was 10 years younger than in women and geographical variation was observed.
Notch1 signalling regulates endothelial proliferation and apoptosis in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Dabral Swati , Tian Xia , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Savai Rajkumar , Ghofrani Hossein Ardeschir , Weissmann Norbert , Florio Monica , Sun Jan , Jonigk Danny , Maegel Lavinia , Grimminger Friedrich , Seeger Werner , Savai Pullamsetti Soni , Schermuly Ralph Theo
Published: July 2016

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterised by excessive pulmonary vascular remodelling involving deregulated proliferation of cells in intima, media as well as adventitia. Pulmonary arterial endothelial cell (PAEC) hyperproliferation and survival underlies the endothelial pathobiology of the disease.

The indispensable involvement of Notch1 in the arterial endothelial phenotype and angiogenesis provides intriguing prospects for its involvement in the pathogenesis of PAH.

We observed an increased expression of Notch1 in lungs of idiopathic PAH (IPAH) patients and hypoxia/SU5416 (SUHx) rats compared with healthy subjects.In vitroloss- and gain-of-function studies demonstrated that Notch1 increased proliferation of human PAECs (hPAECs)viadownregulation of p21 and inhibited apoptosisviaBcl-2 and Survivin. Inhibition of Notch signalling using the γ-secretase inhibitor dibenzazepine dose-dependently decreased proliferation and migration of hPAECs. Notably, Notch1 expression and transcriptional activity were increased under hypoxia in hPAECs and knockdown of Notch1 inhibited hypoxia-induced proliferation of the cells. Furthermore,in vivotreatment with a γ-secretase inhibitor (AMG2008827) significantly reduced the right ventricular systolic pressure and right heart hypertrophy in SUHx rats.

Here, we conclude that Notch1 plays a critical role in PAH and Notch inhibitors may be a promising therapeutic option for PAH.
β2-Adrenergic receptor agonists activate CFTR in intestinal organoids and subjects with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Vijftigschild Lodewijk A.W. , Berkers Gitte , Dekkers Johanna F. , Zomer-van Ommen Domenique D. , Matthes Elizabeth , Kruisselbrink Evelien , Vonk Annelotte , Hensen Chantal E. , Heida-Michel Sabine , Geerdink Margot , Janssens Hettie M. , van de Graaf Eduard A. , Bronsveld Inez , de Winter-de Groot Karin M. , Majoor Christof J. , Heijerman Harry G.M. , de Jonge Hugo R. , Hanrahan John W. , van der Ent Cornelis K. , Beekman Jeffrey M.
Published: July 2016

We hypothesized that people with cystic fibrosis (CF) who expressCFTR(cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) gene mutations associated with residual function may benefit from G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)-targeting drugs that can activate and enhance CFTR function.

We used intestinal organoids to screen a GPCR-modulating compound library and identified β2-adrenergic receptor agonists as the most potent inducers of CFTR function.

β2-Agonist-induced organoid swelling correlated with theCFTRgenotype, and could be induced in homozygous CFTR-F508del organoids and highly differentiated primary CF airway epithelial cells after rescue of CFTR trafficking by small molecules. Thein vivoresponse to treatment with an oral or inhaled β2-agonist (salbutamol) in CF patients with residual CFTR function was evaluated in a pilot study. 10 subjects with a R117H or A455E mutation were included and showed changes in the nasal potential difference measurement after treatment with oral salbutamol, including a significant improvement of the baseline potential difference of the nasal mucosa (+6.35 mV, p<0.05), suggesting that this treatment might be effectivein vivo. Furthermore, plasma that was collected after oral salbutamol treatment induced CFTR activation when administeredex vivoto organoids.

This proof-of-concept study suggests that organoids can be used to identify drugs that activate CFTR functionin vivoand to select route of administration.