bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Case of Congenital Ranula in an Infant
Authors: Mneimneh Sirin , Barazi Randa , Rajab Mariam
Published: May 2016

Ranula is a mucus extravasation cyst originating from the sublingual gland on the floor of the mouth. Congenital ranula is very rare. We report a case of a 4-month-old girl with a congenital ranula in the floor of mouth. The ranula was treated first by marsupialization, but the cyst recurred after 1 week. Excision of the ranula was done and was successful.
Two-Year Follow-Up after Contact Force Sensing Radiofrequency Catheter and Second-Generation Cryoballoon Ablation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Comparative Single Centre Study
Authors: Kardos Attila , Kis Zsuzsanna , Som Zoltan , Nagy Zsofia , Foldesi Csaba
Published: May 2016

Background. There are little comparative data on catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) using the contact force radiofrequency (CF-RF) catheter versus the second-generation cryoballoon (CB2).Methods and results. This is a single center, retrospective, nonrandomized study of 98 patients with symptomatic, drug-refractory paroxysmal AF who underwent their first PVI ablation using either the CB2 (n=40) or CF-RF (n=58). The mean age was 60 years with 63% men, a mean LA size of 42 mm. The procedure duration (74±17versus120±49minutesp<0.05) was shorter for CB2 group; the fluoroscopy time (14±17versus16±5minutes,p=0.45) was similar. Complete PVI was achieved in 96% of patients with RF-CF and 98% with CB2. Phrenic nerve palsies (2 transient and 1 persistent) occurred exclusively in the CB2 group and 1 severe, nonlethal complication (pericardial tamponade) occurred in the CF-RF group. At 24-month follow-up, the success rate, defined as freedom from AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) after a single procedure without antiarrhythmic drug, was comparable in CF-RF group and CB2 group (65.5% versus 67%, resp., log rankp=0.54).Conclusion. Both the CB2 and the RF-CF ablation appeared safe; the success rate at 2 years was comparable between both technologies.
Cloacal Exstrophy Repair with Primary Closure of Bladder Exstrophy: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Bethell George , Johal Navroop , Cuckow Peter
Published: May 2016

Cloacal exstrophy is the most complex congenital, ventral, abdominal wall defect. Traditionally surgery consists of a staged approach to repair which takes place on many separate theatre visits. In this case a primary approach was undertaken resulting in a relatively short inpatient stay and a reduced risk from multiple surgical procedures under general anaesthesia.
Laboratory Evaluation of Different Insecticides against Hibiscus Mealybug,Maconellicoccus hirsutus(Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Fatima Samman , Hussain Mubashar , Shafqat Shama , Faheem Malik Muhammad , Abbas Zaheer , Noureen Nadia , ul Ane Noor
Published: May 2016

Hibiscus mealybug,Maconellicoccus hirsutus(Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is the major pest of many vegetables, fruits, crops, and ornamental plants causing losses to the farmers and its control has been an issue of significance in the pest management. This study was aimed at evaluating different concentrations (0.06%, 0.1%, and 0.14%) of Telsta, Advantage, Talstar, Imidacloprid, and their mixtures against hibiscus mealybug in the Laboratory of Systematics and Pest Management at University of Gujrat, Pakistan. The toxic effect was evaluated in the laboratory bioassay after 24 and 48 h of the application of insecticides. The highest mortality (95.83%) was shown by Talstar and Talstar + Imidacloprid at the concentration of 0.14% after 48 h followed by Advantage + Talstar with 87.50% mortality at 0.14% concentration after 48 h of application. The study also showed that the least effective treatment observed was Advantage + Telsta with no mortality after 24 h and 25% mortality after 48 h at 0.14% concentration. The study revealed that the concentration 0.14% was highly effective in lowering the mealybug population and insecticide mixtures were effective in reducing mealybug density. The study emphasizes the use of such insecticide mixtures to develop better management strategy for mealybug populations attacking ornamental plants. However effects of such insecticide mixtures on other organisms and biological control agents should be checked under field conditions.
Efficacy of Rhodamine Light in the Treatment of Superficial Vascular Lesions of the Face
Authors: Campolmi Piero , Cannarozzo Giovanni , Dragoni Federica , Conti Rossana , Moretti Silvia
Published: May 2016

Objective: The aim of this work was to verify the usefulness and efficacy of treating superficial vascular lesions of the face using rhodamine intense pulsed light (r-IPL). Subjects and Methods: Fifty patients suffering from telangiectasias of the face were enrolled and subsequently treated 4 times (every 20 days) with a new intensified r-IPL system optimized at the same wavelength as the dye laser (595 nm). The outcome was assessed using photographs, and clinical evaluations were made based on the percentage of fading of the erythema and telangiectasias in the lesions after treatment. Results: Marked clinical improvements (70-100%) were observed in 31 (62%) patients after the second session of r-IPL, while 46 (92%) showed a marked improvement after the fourth session. No patients had to resort to topical or systemic drugs. Conclusion: r-IPL was effective in treating superficial vascular lesions, no side effects were observed and the patients readily accepted the treatment. Hence, r-IPL could be promising for the treatment of superficial vascular lesions of the face. Future study would be necessary to confirm the long-term efficacy of this technique.
The War, the Body, and the Nation: Commemorating the War in Afghanistan at The Danish Royal Theatre
Authors: Gade Solveig
Published: May 2016

How might contemporary artistic practices respond critically to war in a post-Cold War era in which the distinctions between peace and war are dissolving? Danish director Christian Lollike set out to address this issue in the acclaimed war ballet Contact, which featured an encounter between 33 ballet dancers and three Danish veterans who had been wounded in the war in Afghanistan.
A Meditation on Stillness: Ann Carlson’s Picture Jasper Ridge
Authors: Vittori Giulia
Published: May 2016

Ann Carlson’s Picture Jasper Ridge was a performance hike in nature: spectators walked through tableaux vivants based on archival photographs. Carlson’s investigation of the apparatuses of archive, performance, natural preserve, and photography fostered meditative thinking about the phenomenology of performance that unfolded through the experience of performing still.
WWII GI Bill and its Effect on Low Education Levels: Did the World War II GI Bill have an Effect on High School Completion, Poverty, and Employment?
Authors: Thomas Megan D.
Published: May 2016

Did the World War II (WWII) GI Bill increase the probability of completing high school and further affect the probability of poverty and employment for the cohorts for whom it benefited? This paper studies whether the GI Bill, one of the largest public financial aid policies for education, affected low education levels in addition to its documented effects on college education, and whether it increased economic well-being for its beneficiaries. I use the 1970 Census and the variation in WWII military participation rate across birth cohorts and states of birth for men. I find that the WWII GI Bill significantly increased the probability of completing high school by 13 percentage points and reduced the probability of being below the poverty line by 4 percentage points for black and white men. It also increased the probability of being employed by 3 percentage points and the number of weeks worked by two weeks.
Tradition and Tolerance
Authors: Mehta Suhaan
Published: May 2016

In Modernism and the Art of Muslim South Asia, Iftikhar Dadi demonstrates how Pakistani artists draw on a range of traditional and contemporary aesthetic practices and intellectual currents. Consistent with Finbarr Barry Flood’s criticism of the post-9/11 mobilization of “Islamic art” against neo-fundamentalism, Dadi argues that Pakistani artistic works cannot be reduced to performing an anti-hegemonic function. Here, I use Dadi and Flood’s claims to analyze the Pakistani-British author Nadeem Aslam’s mediation of the Persianate miniaturist Bihzad (1465–1535) in his novel The Wasted Vigil (2008). While Aslam reconfigures Bihzad to affirm and interrogate Buddhist and Islamic practices in Afghanistan, he nonetheless privileges a secular, aesthetic critique of neo-fundamentalism. Moreover, athough the scriptures are a source of creativity for Aslam, when decoupled from the arts they mostly inspire violence. This creates a binary between artistic and textual forms of Islam, essentializing art as an embodiment of tolerance.
Liquid culture production of microsclerotia of Purpureocillium lilacinum for use as bionematicide
Authors: Song Zhangyong , Shen Ling , Zhong Qiang , Yin Youping , Wang Zhongkang
Published: May 2016

The production of microsclerotia by Purpureocillium lilacinum in liquid culture for use as a biocontrol agent for management of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, has not been described. To investigate the potential for microsclerotia production, P. lilacinum strain CQPL01 was cultured in liquid media containing various concentrations of ferrous sulphate. Under these conditions mycelia began to form microsclerotia. The maximum yield (11.8 × 104 microsclerotia ml−1) was obtained in medium containing 0.2 g l−1 ferrous sulphate and the greatest production of conidia (1.3 × 108 conidia g−1) was obtained by the culture of air-dried microsclerotia in aqueous agar medium. Subsequently, the viability of microsclerotia, including stress resistance, storage stability and pathogenicity against M. incognita, was investigated. The microsclerotia exhibited excellent nematophagous ability and greater thermotolerance and UV-B radiation tolerance compared to conidia. These results suggested that microsclerotia propagules might be superior to the use of conidia in P. lilacinum biocontrol products.
Description of two new species of annual fishes of the Hypsolebias antenori species group (Cyprinodontiformes: Rivulidae), from Northeast Brazil
Authors: BRITZKE RICARDO , NIELSEN DALTON T. B. , OLIVEIRA CLAUDIO
Published: May 2016

The Hypsolebias antenori species group comprises a monophyletic clade of annual fishes occurring in the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil. Most species of this group are found in the Rio São Francisco basin, but there are three species that inhabit small coastal basins. Hypsolebias faouri new species, is described from a temporary pool located near Rio Preto, a tributary of the Rio São Francisco, and Hypsolebias martinsi new species, is described from an annual pool near Rio Icaraizinho, a coastal drainage. Molecular data corroborates the monophyly of Hypsolebias and both new species.
Holopothrips molzi sp.n. (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae): natural history and interactions in Myrtaceae galls
Authors: LINDNER MARIANA FLORES , MENDONÇA MILTON DE SOUZA JR. , CAVALLERI ADRIANO
Published: May 2016

Holopothrips molzi sp. n. (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) is described from southern Brazil inducing leaf galls on Myrcia guianensis (Myrtaceae). Field observations revealed that the numbers of this thrips were highly variable within galls, and two other insect species were recorded living in these galls: Myrciathrips variabilis Cavalleri et al. (Phlaeothripidae) and an eulophid wasp (Hymenoptera). We investigated here if morphological traits of leaf and gall and abundance of the invader thrips were correlated with the gall inducer’s abundance. In order to determine the feeding habit and behaviour of M. variabilis and its interactions with the gall inducer we performed observations ad libitum and attack simulation tests on both thrips species to observe their response to possible invaders. Our results showed that leaf size is not related to H. molzi abundance, and gall size is relevant only when total numbers of both thrips species are considered. Myrciathrips variabilis was observed feeding on gall tissues, and no direct antagonistic interactions between the two thrips were recorded. The results of the behavioural tests simulating attacks were remarkably different in the two thrips species, indicating different strategies when threatened or disturbed. The interaction between the two thrips species is probably a case of inquilinism.
Older British employees’ declining attitudes over 20 years and across classes
Authors: White Michael , Smeaton Deborah
Published: May 2016

British employers, under increasing competitive pressures, and applying new technology and work organization, have sought to reduce labour costs, resulting in work intensification and precarity. Older employees as a result are exposed to work demands that conflict with expectations of favourable treatment in late career. National survey data for Britain in the years 1992, 2001, 2006 and 2012 demonstrate a decline in overall job attitude among older employees following the changed conditions of the 1990s and across the major recession that began in 2008. To assess whether this decline is unequally distributed, decomposition by socio-economic class is carried out. This shows that older employees in the ‘service class’ of managerial and professional employees are affected at least as much as older employees in intermediate and less-skilled classes, thus underlining the age effect and showing that ‘service-class’ employees are not invulnerable to a changing economic environment.
Theorization as institutional work: The dynamics of roles and practices
Authors: Mena Sébastien , Suddaby Roy
Published: May 2016

This study unpacks the construct of theorization – the process by which organizational ideas become delocalized and abstracted into theoretical models to support their diffusion across time and space. We adopt an institutional work lens to analyse the key components of theorization in contexts where institutional work is in transition from changing institutions to maintaining them. We build on a longitudinal inductive study of theorization by the Fair Labor Association – a private regulatory initiative that created and then enforced a code of conduct for working conditions in apparel factories. Our study reveals that when institutional work shifts from changing to maintaining an institutional arrangement of corporate social responsibility, there is a key change in how the Fair Labor Association theorizes roles and practices related to this arrangement. We observe that theorization on key practices largely remains intact, whereas the roles of different actors are theorized in a dramatically different manner. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the work involved in the aftermath of radical change by demonstrating the relative plasticity of roles over the rigidity of practices.
Morphological, physical and mechanical properties of nanocrystalline cellulose filled Nylon 6 foams
Authors: Yousefian Hajar , Rodrigue Denis
Published: May 2016

Nanocomposite foams based on Nylon 6 and nanocrystalline cellulose were prepared via extrusion and injection molding to study the effect of nanocrystalline cellulose concentration (0 to 5%), chemical foaming agent content (0, 1%, and 2%), and mold temperature (30℃ and 80℃) on the morphological, physical, and mechanical properties of the samples. Nanocrystalline cellulose content, especially between 1 and 3 wt%, was very effective in reducing the cell size and increasing the cell density of the foam structure. Nanocrystalline cellulose addition (0–5%) was found to increase density (4% for composites and 20% for foams), tensile strength (10% for composite and 13% for foams), tensile modulus (20% for composites and 34% for foams), and flexural modulus (37% for composites and 29% for foams), but decreased the impact strength (35–40% for composites and 20–40% for foams). Foaming agent addition (1%) was able to improve the specific tensile (10%) and flexural (12%) moduli, tensile strength (14%), elongation at break (6%), and impact strength (27%). Finally, higher mold temperature decreased skin thickness and, consequently, decreased the mechanical properties, mostly tensile strength of the foam samples (1% for composites and 18% for foams).
Adaptive coordinated leader–follower control of autonomous over-actuated electric vehicles
Authors: Guo Jinghua , Luo Yugong , Li Keqiang
Published: May 2016

In this paper, the leader–follower formation control problem of autonomous over-actuated electric vehicles on a highway is studied. As the autonomous over-actuated electric vehicles have the characteristics of non-linearities, external disturbances and strong coupling, a novel coordinated three-level control system is constructed to supervise the longitudinal and lateral motions of autonomous electric vehicles. Firstly, an adaptive terminal sliding high-level control algorithm is designed to compute a vector of total forces and torque of vehicles, and the stability of the high-level control system is proven via Lyapunov analysis where uniform ultimate boundedness of the closed-loop signals is guaranteed. Then, a pseudo-inverse control allocation algorithm, which can achieve fault tolerance and reconfiguration of the redundant tyre actuation system, is presented to generate the desired longitudinal and lateral tyre forces. Then, a separate low-level controller consisting of an inverse tyre model and two inner loops for each wheel is designed to achieve its desired forces. Finally, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control system not only enhance the tracking performance, but also improve the stability and riding comfort of autonomous over-actuated electric vehicles in a platoon.
Power, privilege and disadvantage: Intersectionality theory and political representation
Authors: Severs Eline , Celis Karen , Erzeel Silvia
Published: May 2016

This article critically reviews the extant literature on social group representation and clarifies the advantages of intersectionality theory for studying political representation. It argues that the merit of intersectionality theory can be found in its ontology of power. Intersectionality theory is founded on a relational conception of political power that locates the constitution of power relations within social interactions, such as political representation. As such, intersectionality theory pushes scholarship beyond studying representation inequalities – that are linked to presumably stable societal positions – to also consider the ways in which political representation (re)creates positions of privilege and disadvantage.
Determination of receptor occupancy in the presence of mass dose: [11C]GSK189254 PET imaging of histamine H3 receptor occupancy by PF-03654746
Authors: Gallezot Jean-Dominique , Planeta Beata , Nabulsi Nabeel , Palumbo Donna , Li Xiaoxi , Liu Jing , Rowinski Carolyn , Chidsey Kristin , Labaree David , Ropchan Jim , Lin Shu-Fei , Sawant-Basak Aarti , McCarthy Timothy J , Schmidt Anne W , Huang Yiyun , Carson Richard E
Published: May 2016

Measurements of drug occupancies using positron emission tomography (PET) can be biased if the radioligand concentration exceeds “tracer” levels. Negative bias would also arise in successive PET scans if clearance of the radioligand is slow, resulting in a carryover effect. We developed a method to (1) estimate the in vivo dissociation constant Kd of a radioligand from PET studies displaying a non-tracer carryover (NTCO) effect and (2) correct the NTCO bias in occupancy studies taking into account the plasma concentration of the radioligand and its in vivo Kd. This method was applied in a study of healthy human subjects with the histamine H3 receptor radioligand [11C]GSK189254 to measure the PK-occupancy relationship of the H3 antagonist PF-03654746. From three test/retest studies, [11C]GSK189254 Kd was estimated to be 9.5 ± 5.9 pM. Oral administration of 0.1 to 4 mg of PF-03654746 resulted in occupancy estimates of 71%–97% and 30%–93% at 3 and 24 h post-drug, respectively. NTCO correction adjusted the occupancy estimates by 0%–15%. Analysis of the relationship between corrected occupancies and PF-03654746 plasma levels indicated that PF-03654746 can fully occupy H3 binding sites ( ROmax = 100%), and its IC50 was estimated to be 0.144 ± 0.010 ng/mL. The uncorrected IC50 was 26% higher.
Structural Abnormalities on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: van der Heijden Rianne A. , de Kanter Janneke L.M. , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A. , Verhaar Jan A.N. , van Veldhoven Peter L.J. , Krestin Gabriel P. , Oei Edwin H.G. , van Middelkoop Marienke
Published: May 2016

Background:

Structural abnormalities of the patellofemoral joint might play a role in the pathogenesis of patellofemoral pain (PFP), a common knee problem among young and physically active individuals. No previous study has investigated if PFP is associated with structural abnormalities of the patellofemoral joint using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Purpose:

To investigate the presence of structural abnormalities of the patellofemoral joint on high-resolution MRI in patients with PFP compared with healthy control subjects.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients with PFP and healthy control subjects between 14 and 40 years of age underwent high-resolution 3-T MRI. All images were scored using the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Osteoarthritis Knee Score with the addition of specific patellofemoral features. Associations between PFP and the presence of structural abnormalities were analyzed using logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI), sex, and sports participation.

Results:

A total of 64 patients and 70 control subjects were included in the study. Mean ± SD age was 23.2 ± 6.4 years, mean BMI ± SD was 22.9 ± 3.4 kg/m2, and 56.7% were female. Full-thickness cartilage loss was not present. Minor patellar cartilage defects, patellar bone marrow lesions, and high signal intensity of the Hoffa fat pad were frequently seen in both patients (23%, 53%, and 58%, respectively) and control subjects (21%, 51%, and 51%, respectively). After adjustment for age, BMI, sex, and sports participation, none of the structural abnormalities were statistically significantly associated with PFP.

Conclusion:

Structural abnormalities of the patellofemoral joint have been hypothesized as a factor in the pathogenesis of PFP, but the study findings suggest that structural abnormalities of the patellofemoral joint on MRI are not associated with PFP.
Repurposing emergence theories: An interview with Andrew Pelling
Authors: Beaudoin Christine , Jaclin David
Published: May 2016

Andrew Pelling is a Canadian experimental scientist who uses low-cost, open source materials to create the medical technology of the future. He runs an interdisciplinary, curiosity-driven lab at the University of Ottawa ( pellinglab.net ), where he researches non-genetic ways to create artificial tissues and organs. Much of his experimental work has led to new insights in cancer pathology, muscle degeneration and stem-cell development. He has a cross-appointment in the departments of Physics and Biology and the Institute for Science, Society and Policy at the University, has held a Canada Research Chair since 2008 and was elected a member of the Global Young Academy in 2013. He is an honorary research fellow at SymbioticA, Center of excellence for biological arts. Dr Pelling has also recently started a company to sell and distribute low-cost kits for key scientific equipment that lets anyone create biomaterials for regenerative medicine. His latest achievements and hard work have earned him a place in the TED2016 Fellows Class. We were interested to interview Andrew Pelling, whose experience within and beyond the life sciences could help us better navigate the complex and emerging realms of laboratory life.
Sensitivity analysis–based dynamic process capability evaluation for small batch production runs
Authors: Zhou Xueliang , Jiang Pingyu , Wang Yan
Published: May 2016

Quantifying the current and expected future performance of a machining process no doubt is essential for continuous improvement of product quality and productivity. However, process capability evaluation for small batch production runs is a challenging work, because the assumptions required by traditional evaluation approaches based on statistical process control techniques are commonly not satisfied in real world. In this article, a sensitivity analysis–based process capability evaluation method for small batch production runs is proposed, and a new capability index is also presented correspondingly. In this method, an error propagation model between machining errors and input errors is first established using weighted least squares support vector machine. Then, the sensitivity distribution of machining errors versus input errors is characterized by a set of eigenvalues and eigenvectors in the variation space of input errors. Third, the safe variation space of input errors is solved according to the specification limits of quality characteristics. Finally, the process capability is evaluated by comparing the fitness between the safe variation space and the tolerance space of input errors. A practical case is addressed to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method, and the results demonstrate that the method can measure a real small batch machining process effectively and get rid of the common assumption of independent and identical distribution, which is needed by traditional methods.
Methodology for system-level analysis of a fan–motor design for a vacuum cleaner
Authors: Park Changhwan , Jun Sangook , Park Kyunghyun , Lee Sangjong , Chang Kyoungsik
Published: May 2016

In the present study, a methodology for conducting a system-level analysis of a fan–motor assembly in a vacuum cleaner is presented. This system consisted of three components, a fan, motor, and the flow resistance of the motor, or of the vacuum cleaner. The combined characteristics of the fan and the motor were obtained from torque matching at a constant throttling condition, and a pressure drop was implemented under a constant flow rate to account for the flow resistance. By combining these two steps, the performance characteristics of the fan–motor assembly and the vacuum cleaner system could be predicted over the whole range of operation, based on the characteristics of each component. The predicted performance for power, flow rate, pressure, and efficiency using the present method agreed well with the experimental results obtained for an equivalent system, within 2% difference at best efficiency point. Three models of the fan–motor assembly (S1, S2, and S3) were analyzed at the component level, and the decrease in efficiency produced by flow resistance was estimated to be 1% (S1 and S3 models) or 4.7% (S2 model) using the present method. The characteristics of the fan, extracted from those of the fan–motor assembly, were used for validating the computational fluid dynamics. The computational fluid dynamics results of this study predicted higher efficiency due to simplification of the geometry, but an accurate prediction of best efficiency point location was obtained. The proposed method is also applicable for detecting system leakage and identifying system resistance without direct measurement.
General practitioners’ barriers and facilitators towards new provider-initiated HIV testing strategies: a qualitative study
Authors: Joore Ivo K , van Roosmalen Sanne LC , van Bergen Jan EAM , van Dijk Nynke
Published: May 2016

European guidelines recommend offering an HIV test to individuals who display HIV indicator conditions (ICs). UK guidelines recommend performing a ‘routine offer of HIV testing’ in primary care where HIV prevalence exceeds 2 in 1000. Implementation of new provider-initiated HIV testing strategies in general practice is limited, while the numbers of undiagnosed and late for care HIV patients remain high. We have explored Dutch general practitioners’ barriers to and facilitators of both strategies. We combined semi-structured in-depth interviews with focus groups. Nine general practitioners – key informants of sexually transmitted infection/HIV prevention and control – were selected for the interviews. Additionally, we organised focus groups with a broad sample of general practitioners (n = 81). Framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Various barriers were found, related to (1) the content of the guidelines (testing the right group and competing priorities in general practice), (2) their organisational implementation (lack of time, unclear when to repeat the HIV test and overlong list of ICs) and (3) the patient population (creating fear among patients, stigmatising them and fear regarding financial costs). Multiple general practitioners stated that performing a sexual risk assessment of patients is important before applying either strategy. Also, they recommended implementing the IC-guided approach only in high-prevalence areas and combining HIV tests with other laboratory blood tests. General practitioners tend to cling to old patterns of risk-based testing. Promoting awareness of HIV testing and educating general practitioners about the benefits of new provider-initiated HIV testing strategies is important for the actual uptake of HIV testing.
Fear of Ebola
Authors: Kim Heejung S. , Sherman David K. , Updegraff John A.
Published: May 2016

In response to the Ebola scare in 2014, many people evinced strong fear and xenophobia. The present study, informed by the pathogen-prevalence hypothesis, tested the influence of individualism and collectivism on xenophobic response to the threat of Ebola. A nationally representative sample of 1,000 Americans completed a survey, indicating their perceptions of their vulnerability to Ebola, ability to protect themselves from Ebola (protection efficacy), and xenophobic tendencies. Overall, the more vulnerable people felt, the more they exhibited xenophobic responses, but this relationship was moderated by individualism and collectivism. The increase in xenophobia associated with increased vulnerability was especially pronounced among people with high individualism scores and those with low collectivism scores. These relationships were mediated by protection efficacy. State-level collectivism had the same moderating effect on the association between perceived vulnerability and xenophobia that individual-level value orientation did. Collectivism—and the set of practices and rituals associated with collectivistic cultures—may serve as psychological protection against the threat of disease.
Rationalizing the use of auxiliary label for oral oncology drugs
Authors: Ng Tonya , Badry Nadine , de Lemos Mário L
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective of this study is to develop a systematic approach to standardize the use of auxiliary labels for oral oncology drugs.

Design

The project was multi-phased: environmental scan of auxiliary labels used at six BC Cancer Agency centre pharmacies, develop guidelines to support auxiliary labels standardization, develop inclusion criteria for common warnings and standardize warnings based on guiding principles and evidence (Canadian Compendium of Pharmaceutical Specialties, BC Cancer Agency Cancer Drug Manual, British National Formulary, literature).

Results

Consistent auxiliary labels use was rare (7% of drugs). No explicit methodology for determining previous auxiliary labels use was identified. Guiding principles developed include auxiliary labels supplement counselling and drug-specific patient handouts; a maximum of four auxiliary labels (limited container size and alert fatigue); identify hazardous drugs with auxiliary labels; auxiliary labels not intended for universal warnings (e.g., keep out of reach of children); warnings prioritized by impact on storage, efficacy (e.g., administration instructions), toxicity (including interactions) and other clinical issues. Inclusion criteria were developed for warnings on pregnancy, crushing/chewing, taking with plenty of water, drowsiness/dizziness, alcohol, grapefruit juice, hazardous and sunlight exposure. First list of standardized auxiliary labels was completed in June 2014.

Conclusion

A systematic approach was developed to determine and prioritize auxiliary labels for oral oncology drugs. This has led to a standardized and more accurate labelling throughout the six BC Cancer Agency centres’ pharmacies.
Levetiracetam for the prevention of busulfan-induced seizures in pediatric hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients
Authors: Floeter Abby E , McCune Jeannine S
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare clinical outcomes in children undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation who received levetiracetam versus those who received phenytoin for the prevention of busulfan-induced seizures.

Methods

This study was an IRB-approved, single-center, retrospective analysis of pediatric patients receiving intravenous busulfan for hematopoietic cell transplantation conditioning from January 2009 to July 2014. The primary study endpoint was the incidence of seizure during busulfan administration (day −8 to 0). Key transplant related-outcomes were also collected, including the incidence of graft rejection, sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, relapse, and death.

Results

A total of 20 patients met criteria for inclusion in the study. The population was heterogeneous with regard to the indication for hematopoietic cell transplantation, donor type, stem cell source, and conditioning regimen. Nine patients (45%) received levetiracetam and 11 (55%) received phenytoin for seizure prophylaxis. No seizures or graft rejections were observed in the study population. One relapse, one case of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, and two deaths occurred in the levetiracetam group, while no relapses, two cases of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, and one death occurred in the phenytoin group.

Conclusion

These data suggest similar safety and effectiveness between levetiracetam and phenytoin for the prevention of busulfan-induced seizures in a small, heterogeneous pediatric hematopoietic cell transplantation population.
Understanding white etching cracks in rolling element bearings: State of art and multiple driver transposition on a twin-disc machine
Authors: Ruellan Arnaud , Cavoret Jérôme , Ville Fabrice , Kleber Xavier , Liatard Bernard
Published: May 2016

Among the prevalent tribological failures affecting rolling element bearings, an unconventional rolling contact fatigue mode has been identified as white etching cracks. Those correspond to three-dimensional branching crack networks partially bordered by white etching microstructure, eventually leading to premature and unpredictable failure. Recent work supports that this failure mode may be associated with various combinations of operating conditions depending on the application or test rig, but that all seem to converge towards similar tribological drivers related to surface-affected hydrogen evolution at asperity scales, which is known to embrittle the bearing steel. Nevertheless, as white etching cracks remain delicate to reproduce without artificial hydrogen charging, the underlying formation mechanisms remain unsettled. The present work aims to better understand how some of the main tribomechanical and tribochemical drivers may trigger white etching cracks and premature failures. In this study drivers such as sliding kinematics, water contamination, and electrical potential and lubricant additives are progressively transposed on a twin-disc machine that provides an enhanced control of contact parameters. Various attempts advocate that the tested drivers are not self-sufficient to reproduce the failure mode in such apparatus, but confirm that specific lubricant additives may reduce the fatigue life by promoting surface-initiated embrittled cracking similar to white etching cracks. A local criterion accounting for the local sliding frictional power dissipation and the lubrication regime is further proposed to assess the risk of white etching cracks based on the analysis of various reproduction and occurrences.
The role of cost-effectiveness analysis in the development of indicators to support incentive-based behaviour in primary care in England
Authors: Qureshi Nadeem , Weng Stephen , Hex Nick
Published: May 2016

In England, general practitioners are incentivized through a national pay-for-performance scheme to adopt evidence-based quality improvement initiatives using a portfolio of Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) indicators. We describe the development of the methods used to assess the cost-effectiveness of these pay-for-performance indicators and how they have contributed to the development of new indicators. Prior to analysis of new potential indicators, an economic subgroup of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Indicator Advisory Committee is formed to assess evidence on the cost-effectiveness of potential indicators in terms of the health benefits gained, compared to the cost of the intervention and the cost of the incentive. The expert subgroup is convened to reach consensus on the amounts that could potentially be paid to general practices for achieving new indicators. Indicators are also piloted in selected general practices and evidence gathered about their practical implementation. The methods used to assess economic viability of new pilot indicators represent a pragmatic and effective way of providing information to inform recommendations. Current policy to reduce QOF funding could shift the focus from national (QOF) to local schemes, with economic appraisal remaining central.
Feminist and trans perspectives on identity and the UK Gender Recognition Act
Authors: McQueen Paddy
Published: May 2016

This article examines Sheila Jeffreys’ analysis of the UK’s Gender Recognition Act (GRA) and her critique of trans identities. Situating her position within a wider radical feminist perspective, I suggest that her arguments against the GRA are grounded in a problematic understanding of sex and gender. In so doing, I defend how sex and gender are understood in the GRA. Furthermore, I show that radical feminist concerns about sex reassignment surgery and the complicity of trans individuals with stereotypical gender norms are unwarranted. By highlighting the importance of attending to the embodied dimensions of sex and gender, I offer a partial defence of the UK’s GRA. In particular, I note the benefits that it can offer to trans individuals, although I suggest ways in which the GRA can be improved. Finally, I challenge radical feminists who see trans theory and identities as inimical to the goals of feminism.
Revisiting the debate on open Marxist perspectives
Authors: Dönmez Pınar E. , Sutton Alex
Published: May 2016

This article seeks to review the recent incarnation of a long-standing engagement in international political economy (IPE) and critical theory between open Marxist perspectives (OMPs) and their critics. The article aims to identify the enduring relevance of this debate in order to think about the possibility and future of critical social inquiry in our time constructively. It criticises elements on both sides of the debate that no longer serve but rather hinder achieving this objective. We argue that the recent criticisms make a number of important constructive points that could help enhance the explanatory power of OMPs yet still portray the latter uncharitably. We propose to take the emphasis on openness in OMPs seriously as a scholarly and political orientation without immersing the debate with the charges of reductionism, instrumentalism, determinism and functionalism which are frequently raised by various versions of Marxism against one another—often to little avail.
Acknowledging and interrogating multiplicities: Towards a generous approach in evaluations of early literacy innovation and intervention
Authors: Burnett Cathy
Published: May 2016

At a time of increasing calls from policy makers for the use of ‘hard evidence’ in driving decision-making at national and local levels in educational contexts, this article contributes to debates about evidence-based practice in early literacy research. It proposes that a reliance on studies designed to generate ‘hard’ evidence limits understanding about innovations and interventions, arguing that such reliance is not just problematic because interventions and innovations are interpreted differently in diverse sites, or because programmes need to be locally relevant, but because they are constituted differently through different evaluation studies. The article draws on Law’s notion of ‘method assemblage’ to consider how different studies produce different assemblages that have implications for how innovations are conceived. These ideas are exemplified using studies scrutinised through a systematic literature review of one kind of literacy intervention, early years book-gifting, which aims to promote book-sharing in the home. The discussion focuses specifically on how books as mediating objects are instantiated in various ways through different studies, with different implications for how book-sharing, book-gifting and, ultimately, reading are understood. When considered together, these studies construct book-gifting in multiple ways, problematising and complicating the causal relations assumed in methodologies driving for ‘hard’ evidence. Drawing on the book-gifting example, this article explores what might be gained by embracing ‘multiplicities’, the multiple ways in which things – such as objects, activities, principles and indeed literacy interventions – are constituted through method assemblage. It argues that literacy evaluations can best serve children and their families, and the organisations, agencies and groups working alongside them, by seeking fluid, open and ‘generous’ accounts of innovations and interventions. Such accounts, it is argued, are more likely to acknowledge the complex relationships and practices associated with early literacy and to generate new understandings and productive possibilities for early literacy learning.
Morality, power and the planning subject
Authors: Lennon Mick , Fox-Rogers Linda
Published: May 2016

Ethical issues are at the heart of planning. Thus, planning theory has long displayed an interest in debating both the ethical justification for planning and how the activity of planning can be rendered more ethically sensitive. However, comparatively little attention has been shown to how the very constitution of the planner as a ‘moral subject’ may be ethically problematic for planning practice. This article addresses this lacuna through an engagement with the philosophy of Michel Foucault. In contrast to how his work is normally applied, this article accords with Foucault’s own direction that his later examination of ethics be used as a lens through which to read his earlier analysis of power and knowledge. Accordingly, the article first outlines Foucault’s innovative reinterpretation of how power and knowledge operate in society before setting this within his novel reconception of ethics. This theoretical exposition is then employed to interpret the material drawn from in-depth qualitative interviews with 20 planning officers working in a range of different contexts. The article subsequently employs Foucault’s ethically informed reading of power and knowledge to identify ethical issues arising from the approaches used by practitioners to justify their planning activities. The article concludes by suggesting how such issues can be resolved.
Experimental study on dynamic properties of railway ballast mixed with tire derived aggregate by modal shaker test
Authors: Esmaeili Morteza , Zakeri Jabbar Ali , Ebrahimi Hamed , Khadem Sameni Mohammad
Published: May 2016

This article focuses on evaluating the dynamic behavior of ballast mixed with tire derived aggregate as an economic and environmental preserving method to obviate the rigidity problems in railway tracks. For this purpose, the ballast was mixed with 0, 11, 22, and 33 volume percentages of tire derived aggregate in a loading chamber and was examined under different types of dynamic loads such as Sweep sine imposed by a shaker on a rigid square plate. Considering the plate as rigid foundation resting on ballast mixed with tire derived aggregate as subgrade, frequency response functions of both foundation and subgrade were calculated by recorded accelerations and force using the installed accelerometers on loading plate and the wall of loading chamber and load transducer in shaker tip. The obtained results for pure ballast first proved that Sweep sine shaker test leads to more smooth spectra in comparison to other shaking methods. The obtained values for subgrade stiffness and damping ratio showed considerable decrease and increase with respect to increase in tire derived aggregate percentage in ballast mixture. As an optimum percentage of tire derived aggregate, values around 10 can be proposed for practical uses.
Experimental investigation of effect of flow attack angle on thermohydraulic performance of air flow in a rectangular channel with discrete V-pattern baffle on the heated plate
Authors: Kumar Raj , Chauhan Ranchan , Sethi Muneesh , Sharma Ashutosh , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2016

In this work, the effect of angle of attack [Formula: see text] of the discrete V-pattern baffle on thermohydraulic performance of rectangular channel has been studied experimentally. The baffle wall was constantly heated and the other three walls of the channel were kept insulated. The experimentations were conducted to collect the data on Nusselt number [Formula: see text] and friction factor [Formula: see text] by varying the Reynolds number ( Re) = 3000–21,000 and angle of attack [Formula: see text] from 30° to 70°, for the kept values of relative baffle height [Formula: see text], relative pitch ratio [Formula: see text], relative discrete width [Formula: see text] and relative discrete distance [Formula: see text]. As compared to the smooth wall, the V-pattern baffle roughened channel enhances the Nusselt number [Formula: see text] and friction factor [Formula: see text] by 4.2 and 5.9 times, respectively. The present discrete V-pattern baffle shapes with angle of attack [Formula: see text] of 60° equivalent to flow Reynolds number of 3000 yields the greatest thermohydraulic performance. Discrete V-pattern baffle has improved thermal performance as compared to other baffle shapes’ rectangular channel.