bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The trade union response to the European economic governance regime. Transnational mobilization and wage coordination
Authors: Dufresne Anne
Published: April 2015

Since 2010 European economic governance has not only had an impact on the framework for collective bargaining but also, subsequently, on the power and legitimacy of the unions. European unions, under attack, are seeking to react through a relaunch of their earlier European initiatives in favour of a European coordination of national collective bargaining. They are also formulating a new demand for a European minimum wage. This article argues, however, that in order to achieve these euro-demands an additional step is needed: transnational social mobilization. On the basis of the 14N case (14 November 2012 general strike), it analyses how transnational social mobilization has been increasing in pace and intensity since the onset of the crisis. The article concludes on the crucial link between transnational mobilization and wage coordination. Both constitute the first steps in the process of Euro-unionism representative functions on the road towards a genuine European collective bargaining system, refounded above the institutionalized social dialogue process.
Can Anyone Hear Me? Does Anyone See Me? A Qualitative Meta-Analysis of Women’s Experiences of Heart Disease
Authors: Galick Aimee , D’Arrigo-Patrick Elizabeth , Knudson-Martin Carmen
Published: April 2015

Female heart patients are underdiagnosed and undertreated. The purpose of this qualitative meta-data-analysis was to explain how societal expectations related to gender and the treatment environment influence women’s experiences and can inform optimal care. The authors used grounded theory methodology and a social constructionist gender lens to analyze 43 studies (1993–2012) of women’s experiences of heart disease. The analysis illustrates how social expectations within both medical and relational contexts led to women experiencing barriers to diagnosis and treatment and inadvertent minimization of their experience and knowledge. Women’s descriptions of their experiences suggest three kinds of health care strategies that have the potential to increase women’s engagement with heart disease treatment and rehabilitation: (a) support give and take in relational connections, (b) identify and acknowledge unique health-promoting behavior, and (c) focus on empowerment. These findings have interdisciplinary implications for practice with women with heart disease.
Ponseti Casting and Achilles Release Versus Classic Casting and Soft Tissue Releases for the Initial Treatment of Arthrogrypotic Clubfeet
Authors: Kowalczyk Bart , Felus Jaroslaw
Published: April 2015

Background:

Wide soft tissue releases (STRs) are considered the classic operative approach to the arthrogrypotic clubfoot, but recently the Ponseti method with Achilles tenotomy has been proposed as the initial treatment for those deformities.

Methods:

A retrospective comparison of clinical results and treatment course after 5 to 10 years of follow-up (FU) in arthrogrypotic clubfeet treated initially with STRs or the Ponseti method was performed. Mann-Whitney and χ2 tests were used to assess significant differences between variables.

Results:

Twenty-nine children with 57 arthrogrypotic clubfeet were divided into 2 subgroups: the Ponseti subgroup (9 children, 18 clubfeet, mean FU: 7.3 years), which achieved 14 good and 4 satisfactory final results. The complication rate was 5.5%. Reoperation rate was 1.2 per foot, with 90.9% being STRs and 9.1% wedge osteotomies. The mean total anesthesia and surgery time equaled 116.6 and 77.4 minutes, respectively. The interval between primary and redo surgery was 27.3 months on average. The STR subgroup (20 children, 39 clubfeet, FU: 9.0 years on average) scored 20 good, 8 satisfactory, and 11 unsatisfactory results. Rate of complications was 23%. The mean total anesthesia and surgery times were 161.4 minutes and 102.8 minutes, respectively. The interval between the initial and secondary operations was 62.8 months on average. The revision rate was 1.0 per foot with 32.5% repeated STRs, while 67.5% were talectomies, osteotomies, or salvage procedures.

Conclusions:

The use of the Ponseti method as the initial treatment in arthrogrypotic clubfeet improved clinical outcomes, reduced invasiveness of revisions, and shortened overall time of anesthesia and surgery.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series
Validity and Psychometric Properties of the Measure of Psychologically Abusive Behaviors Among Young Women and Women in Distressed Relationships
Authors: Follingstad Diane R. , Coker Ann L. , Lee Eunkyung , Williams Corrine M. , Bush Heather M. , Mendiondo Marta M.
Published: April 2015

The Measure of Psychologically Abusive Behaviors (MPAB) was developed recently to improve on prior scales. Two nationally solicited samples of women were utilized to further validate the MPAB through the use of a criterion group, factor analysis, and designation of a threshold for accurate classification. MPAB scores were twice as high in the criterion group ( M = 38.75 vs. M = 18.85; F = 22.17). Using a cutpoint of 1, the sensitivity and specificity for MPAB were .725 and .628, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha was .97 for both samples. These data provide additional evidence for the MPAB as valid and internally consistent.
Comorbidity and Behavior Characteristics of Russian Male Juvenile Delinquents With ADHD and Conduct Disorder
Authors: Lindblad Frank , Isaksson Johan , Heiskala Viktor , Koposov Roman , Ruchkin Vladislav
Published: April 2015

Objective: To test the previously suggested hypothesis that those with comorbid ADHD and Conduct Disorder (CD) diagnoses differ from other antisocially involved youth in terms of higher rates of violent behavior, impulsiveness, and psychopathic traits. Method: Three hundred eighty juvenile incarcerated delinquents from Northern Russia were assessed by means of semi-structured psychiatric interview and by student and teacher self-reports. Results: The study has demonstrated higher rates of psychiatric disorders and of comorbidity, as well as more complicated substance abuse and disruptive behaviors in those with combined ADHD–CD diagnosis, as compared with CD only, ADHD only, and no CD no ADHD groups. The results regarding psychopathic traits were inconclusive. Conclusion: The group with combined ADHD–CD diagnosis is more severely disturbed, both as concerns psychiatric comorbidity and more severe aggressive and disruptive behaviors. However, there is only limited evidence supporting a higher prevalence of psychopathic traits in this group.
The experiential impact of hospitalisation: Parents’ accounts of caring for young people with early psychosis
Authors: Hickman Gareth , Newton Elizabeth , Fenton Kelly , Thompson Jessica , Boden Zoë VR , Larkin Michael
Published: April 2015

This research examines the experiential impact of hospitalisation on the parents of young people with early psychosis. In-depth interviews were conducted with a small sample of parents, and the resulting transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Five themes emerged from the data: Accepting and blaming, Feeling out of control, Hospitalisation as temporary containment, Feeling let down by services and Stigma. Aspects of the hospitalisation process were characterised by parents as generally negative, but a number of positive affirmations were also offered regarding the containing, supportive and crucial role of services. Parents’ perceptions of hospitalisation as a difficult, and sometimes distressing, experience are exacerbated by the complexity of being the carer of a young person. Negotiating services and boundaries within the context of this relationship contributes to feelings of exclusion and disregard by professionals and services. The implications of this study resonate with the current government mental health strategy with regard to how services can engage and include carers in the mental health system, and equip and enable them to support their relatives with early psychosis.
Architecture and attachment: Carceral collectivism and the problem of prison reform in Russia and Georgia
Authors: Piacentini Laura , Slade Gavin
Published: April 2015

This article looks at the trajectory of prison reform in post-Soviet Georgia and Russia. It attempts to understand recent developments through an analysis of the resilient legacies of the culture of punishment born out of the Soviet period. To do this, the article fleshes out the concept of carceral collectivism, which refers to the practices and beliefs that made up prison life in Soviet and now post-Soviet countries. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 revealed a penal culture in notable need of reform. Less obvious, in retrospect, was how over the course of a century this predominantly ‘collectivist’ culture of punishment was instantiated in routine penal practices that stand in opposition to western penalities. The article shows how the social and physical structuring of collectivism and penal self-governance have remained resilient in the post-Soviet period despite diverging attempts at reform in Russia and Georgia. The article argues that persistent architectural forms and cultural attachment to collectivism constitute this resilience. Finally, the article asks how studies of collectivist punishment in the post-Soviet region might inform emerging debates about the reform and restructuring of individualizing, cell-based prisons in western jurisdictions.
Political corruption in Eurasia: Understanding collusion between states, organized crime and business
Authors: Kupatadze Alexander
Published: April 2015

This article presents the problem of illicit collusion between states, organized criminals and white-collar criminals in the post-Soviet region, showing the blurring of these phenomena. It charts the development of political corruption and argues that this is a particular problem in the region due to the way state resources were sold off during the 1990s. The article however shows that the countries of the region now diverge significantly in terms of the extent and form that collusion takes. The goal of the article is to understand this variation. The article suggests that roughly two broad categories of state now exist in the post-Soviet region, excluding the Baltic States. These are broadly politically competitive states such as Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia and broadly politically non-competitive ones such as Russia, Belarus or Kazakhstan. I show that collusion takes differing forms across these categories due to the effect that the presence or absence of political competition has. In conclusion I argue that the post-Soviet region provides little evidence to believe that political competition actually reduces corruption and collusion. However, some cases from the region show that successful anti-corruption campaigns are more likely where there is more political contestation.
Systematic racist violence in Russia between ‘hate crime’ and ‘ethnic conflict’
Authors: Arnold Richard
Published: April 2015

Racist violence in Russia has recently become a subject of interest to scholars and analysts of Russian politics. What are the similarities and differences between racist violence in Russia and the West? How does the level of Russian racist violence compare to other societies? Do racist hate groups in Russia have similar origins to groups in the West? This article considers these questions. I first demonstrate that Russia is indeed the most dangerous country in Europe for ethnic minorities, and argue that such violence is more ‘systematic’ (structured, ideologically coherent, patterned) than in other developed societies. The high level of violence against ethnic minorities in Russia is ‘over-determined’ by a combination of post-Soviet social and economic social changes, the brutalizing consequences of a long counter-insurgency campaign, and government passivity (and sometimes complicity) in the face of racist violence and hate speech. Thus, Russia’s systematic racist violence is analytically closer to outright ethnic conflict than to a form of criminal deviance that could aptly be termed ‘hate crime’.
New laboratory procedure using a modal approach to obtain vibration attenuation properties of unaged and aged asphalt mixtures
Authors: Real Teresa , Montalbán Laura , Masanet Claudio , Real Julia
Published: April 2015

During asphalt mixture service life, its structural and physical capabilities deteriorate progressively. A modal analysis using impact hammer excitation technique is put forward to measure the damping factor instead of the commonly destructive test described in the standards. Concerning to this modal approach, an aging procedure is presented to obtain and compare the vibration attenuation capacity variation of the mixtures considering aging deterioration. In this research, this new procedure has been applied to asphalt concrete and stone mastic asphalt mixtures with different amounts of polyethylene terephthalete. It has been validated using results from four-point bending test. Finally, the results confirmed that asphalt mixtures with 0–2% of polyethylene terephthalete present better vibration attenuation capacity than mixtures without it, even when aging appeared.
Less Than Total Excision of Infected Prosthetic PTFE Graft Does Not Increase the Risk of Reinfection
Authors: Sgroi Michael D. , Kirkpatrick Vincent E. , Resnick Karen A. , Williams Russell A. , Wilson Samuel E. , Gordon Ian L.
Published: April 2015

Background:

Traditional treatment of infected polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts consist of removal of the entire prosthesis. Closure of the native vessels may compromise vascular patency. We examined the outcomes for patients in whom a PTFE remnant of an infected graft was retained on the vessel.

Methods:

We reviewed the operating room log from 2000 to 2011 and identified all patients who had partial removal of an infected PTFE graft used for hemodialysis or peripheral bypass. These patients were examined for subsequent complications.

Results:

Twenty-seven patients underwent 30 partial graft excisions with mean follow-up of 27 months. A total of 17% (5 of 30) of the partial graft resection procedures resulted in complications. Of 48 total remnants left behind at the arterial or venous anastomoses, reinfection occurred in 15%.

Conclusions:

Leaving a well-incorporated small 1-to 5-mm PTFE remnant at the arterial or venous anastomoses can be performed safely with a low risk of complications.
Identifying Opportunities for Virtual Reality Simulation in Surgical Education
Authors: Olasky Jaisa , Sankaranarayanan Ganesh , Seymour Neal E. , Magee J. Harvey , Enquobahrie Andinet , Lin Ming C. , Aggarwal Rajesh , Brunt L. Michael , Schwaitzberg Steven D. , Cao Caroline G. L. , De Suvranu , Jones Daniel B.
Published: April 2015

Objectives. To conduct a review of the state of virtual reality (VR) simulation technology, to identify areas of surgical education that have the greatest potential to benefit from it, and to identify challenges to implementation. Background Data. Simulation is an increasingly important part of surgical training. VR is a developing platform for using simulation to teach technical skills, behavioral skills, and entire procedures to trainees and practicing surgeons worldwide. Questions exist regarding the science behind the technology and most effective usage of VR simulation. A symposium was held to address these issues. Methods. Engineers, educators, and surgeons held a conference in November 2013 both to review the background science behind simulation technology and to create guidelines for its use in teaching and credentialing trainees and surgeons in practice. Results. Several technologic challenges were identified that must be overcome in order for VR simulation to be useful in surgery. Specific areas of student, resident, and practicing surgeon training and testing that would likely benefit from VR were identified: technical skills, team training and decision-making skills, and patient safety, such as in use of electrosurgical equipment. Conclusions. VR simulation has the potential to become an essential piece of surgical education curriculum but depends heavily on the establishment of an agreed upon set of goals. Researchers and clinicians must collaborate to allocate funding toward projects that help achieve these goals. The recommendations outlined here should guide further study and implementation of VR simulation.
The Influence of Flooring on Environmental Stressors
Authors: Harris Debra D.
Published: April 2015

Objective:

Three flooring materials, terrazzo, rubber, and carpet tile, in patient unit corridors were compared for absorption of sound, comfort, light reflectance, employee perceptions and preferences, and patient satisfaction.

Background:

Environmental stressors, such as noise and ergonomic factors, effect healthcare workers and patients, contributing to increased fatigue, anxiety and stress, decreased productivity, and patient safety and satisfaction.

Methods:

A longitudinal comparative cohort study comparing three types of flooring assessed sound levels, healthcare worker responses, and patient Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) ratings over 42 weeks. A linear mixed model analysis was conducted to determine significant differences between the means for participant responses and objective sound meter data during all three phases of the study.

Results:

A significant difference was found for sound levels between flooring type for equivalent continuous sound levels. Carpet tile performed better for sound attenuation by absorption, reducing sound levels 3.14 dBA. Preferences for flooring materials changed over the course of the study. The HCAHPS ratings aligned with the sound meter data showing that patients perceived the noise levels to be lower with carpet tiles, improving patient satisfaction ratings.

Conclusions:

Perceptions for healthcare staff and patients were aligned with the sound meter data. Carpet tile provides sound absorption that affects sound levels and influences occupant’s perceptions of environmental factors that contribute to the quality of the indoor environment. Flooring that provides comfort underfoot, easy cleanability, and sound absorption influence healthcare worker job satisfaction and patient satisfaction with their patient experience.
Case Study
Authors: McCurdy John M. , Haliburton James R. , Yadav Hardik C. , Yoder Allison M. , Norton Lindsey R. , Froehlich Josef A. , Kaur Harpreet , Kramer Nicholas F. , Silman Ayesha , Quinn Brian J. , Pudlo Sharon , Terrell Christina Butler , El-Mallakh Rif S.
Published: April 2015

Objective:

The psychiatric emergency room is a dynamic and sometimes volatile environment. Its design may be an important variable in patient care, but most design decisions are based on models of thought and treatment with a minimal evidence base.

Background:

The concept of open design, increasing access of patients to nursing staff, for inpatient psychiatric units has recently gained widespread acceptance, despite a dearth of empirical data.

Methods:

We examined rates of seclusion and restraint before and after a design change that reduced the openness of the unit in a dedicated emergency psychiatric service in a general university hospital. Quality assurance data regarding the census, occurrence of assaults, and the use of seclusion and restraint were queried. Two independent analyses utilizing a test of proportional data were performed to replicate the findings.

Results:

After placement of a door to restrict patients’ access to the waiting area of the unit, the rate of the use of seclusion and restraint went from 0.03 (44/777) to 0.0185 (27/1,514; z = 2.02, p < .04). Replication over a separate time period saw reduction from 0.029 (67/2,277) to 0.018 (44/2,431), z = 2.44, p < .02).

Conclusion:

A design change that reduced the openness of the unit resulted in the reduction of seclusion and restraint.
RNAi profiling of primary human AML cells identifies ROCK1 as a therapeutic target and nominates fasudil as an antileukemic drug
Authors: Wermke Martin , Camgoz Aylin , Paszkowski-Rogacz Maciej , Thieme Sebastian , von Bonin Malte , Dahl Andreas , Platzbecker Uwe , Theis Mirko , Ehninger Gerhard , Brenner Sebastian , Bornhäuser Martin , Buchholz Frank
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Large-scale loss-of-function RNAi screens in patient-derived AML cells are feasible and able to pinpoint therapeutic targets. ROCK1 inhibition exerts antileukemic effects in primary human AML cells in vitro and in vivo.
Heavy metals determination in honey samples using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry
Authors: Aghamirlou Hasan Mohammadi , Khadem Monireh , Rahmani Abdolrasoul , Sadeghian Marzieh , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Akbarzadeh Arash , Nazmara Shahrokh
Published: April 2015

Background

Honey contains a complex mixture of carbohydrates and other minor substances. Elements are minor constituents of honey that may threaten the human health in excess concentrations. So, determining the metals in honey helps its quality control as a food product. The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of some metals in Iranian honey.

Methods

This study was performed in four regions of Ardabil, a province of Iran. Honey samples (n = 25) were digested in microwave oven by nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide, then analyzed using inductively coupled plasma– optic emission spectrophotometry (ICP-OES).

Results

No significant differences were observed in cadmium, zinc, nickel, and chromium levels between regions (P > 0.05). Zinc was the most abundant metal in honey samples (1481.64 μg/kg). Some metals had higher concentrations in the East region because of existence more industries there. The highest mean of lead level was 935.48 μg/kg in the East and the lowest was 205.4 μg/kg in the South region. The concentrations of metals were compared with recommended limits for foods. Some of them were higher than standard levels (lead) and some were lower than those (cadmium).

Conclusions

Metals are released into the environment through their use in industrial processes and enter the food chain from uptake by plants from contaminated soil or water. Metals concentration in various places depends on many variables, leading to their different concentrations in honey. Some control measures like the quality control of food products, monitoring the soil in agricultural regions and limiting the use of fertilizers are recommended.
Control of brain patterning by Engrailed paracrine transfer: a new function of the Pbx interaction domain
Authors: Rampon Christine , Gauron Carole , Lin Thibault , Meda Francesca , Dupont Edmond , Cosson Adrien , Ipendey Eliane , Frerot Alice , Aujard Isabelle , Le Saux Thomas , Bensimon David , Jullien Ludovic , Volovitch Michel , Vriz Sophie , Joliot Alain
Published: April 2015

Homeoproteins of the Engrailed family are involved in the patterning of mesencephalic boundaries through a mechanism classically ascribed to their transcriptional functions. In light of recent reports on the paracrine activity of homeoproteins, including Engrailed, we asked whether Engrailed intercellular transfer was also involved in brain patterning and boundary formation. Using time-controlled activation of Engrailed combined with tools that block its transfer, we show that the positioning of the diencephalic-mesencephalic boundary (DMB) requires Engrailed paracrine activity. Both zebrafish Eng2a and Eng2b are competent for intercellular transfer in vivo, but only extracellular endogenous Eng2b, and not Eng2a, participates in DMB positioning. In addition, disruption of the Pbx-interacting motif in Engrailed, known to strongly reduce the gain-of-function phenotype, also downregulates Engrailed transfer, thus revealing an unsuspected participation of the Pbx interaction domain in this pathway.
Can Tax Breaks Beat Geography? Lessons from the French Enterprise Zone Experience
Authors: Briant Anthony , Lafourcade Miren , Schmutz Benoît
Published: April 2015

This paper shows that urban geography matters to the effectiveness of place-based policies, using the French enterprise zone program as a case study. Whereas this program created more jobs in spatially integrated neighborhoods, its impact on local wages was only visible in the more isolated ones. In addition, a focus on the average impact of the program would lead to the conclusion that it mostly succeeded in displacing preexisting firms, but a lower level of spatial isolation was a clear determinant of the decision to create new firms from scratch. (JEL H25, H32, L52, R32, R38)
Behind the GATE Experiment: Evidence on Effects of and Rationales for Subsidized Entrepreneurship Training
Authors: Fairlie Robert W. , Karlan Dean , Zinman Jonathan
Published: April 2015

Theories of market failures and targeting motivate the promotion of entrepreneurship training programs and generate testable predictions regarding heterogeneous treatment effects from such programs. Using a large randomized evaluation in the United States, we find no strong or lasting effects on those most likely to face credit or human capital constraints, or labor market discrimination. We do find a short-run effect on business ownership for those unemployed at baseline, but this dissipates at longer horizons. Treatment effects on the full sample are also short-term and limited in scope: we do not find effects on business sales, earnings, or employees. (JEL I26, J24, J68, L25, L26, M13)
Does Agriculture Generate Local Economic Spillovers? Short-Run and Long-Run Evidence from the Ogallala Aquifer
Authors: Hornbeck Richard , Keskin Pinar
Published: April 2015

Agriculture may support the local nonagricultural economy in rural areas, though agricultural expansion may also crowd-out nonagricultural activity. On the United States Plains, areas over the Ogallala aquifer experienced windfall agricultural gains when post-WWII technologies increased farmers' access to groundwater. Comparing counties over the Ogallala with similar counties, nonagricultural sectors experienced only short-run relative benefits. Despite substantial and persistent agricultural gains, there was no long-run relative expansion of nonagricultural sectors in Ogallala counties. Agricultural development may still encourage regional or national nonagricultural development, but agriculture does not appear to generate local economic spillovers that differentially encourage local nonagricultural activity. (JEL Q12, Q15, Q18, Q25, R11)
Use of bibliographic databases and social networks in research and revalidation
Authors: Ghaly GA , Espeso A , Ameerally P
Published: April 2015

A review of the main search engines for researching medical topics.
Net-authoritarianism? How web ideologies reinforce political hierarchies in the Italian 5 Star Movement
Authors: Treré Emiliano , Barassi Veronica
Published: April 2015

This article responds to current critiques about the myths of digital democracy drawing on the case study of the Italian Movimento 5 Stelle/5 Star Movement (5SM) lead by comedian-turned-politician Beppe Grillo. We argue that the political success of the 5SM was largely dependent on a process of technological fetishism of the Net as an autonomous political agent. We also contend that this process has enabled the party leaders to build an ideology of the movement and represent the 5SM as a grassroots movement based on horizontal networks, participatory democracy, and characterized by the absence of leadership. Conversely, we claim that the digital rhetoric of horizontality, lack of leadership and spontaneity of the party is used to mask, facilitate and reinforce the authority of Beppe Grillo as political leader, thus forging a new type of authoritarianism that is supported and legitimated through the everyday construction of digital discourse.
TRABALHO DOCENTE NA MODERNIDADE LÍQUIDA: O PREZI NO PROCESSO ENSINO E APRENDIZAGEM DOS/AS “ALUNOS/AS SURFISTAS”
Authors: Teruya Teresa Kazuko , Baliscei João Paulo , Do Nascimento Mariana Costa
Published: April 2015

As condições sociais, econômicas e culturais do período histórico em que estamos vivendo repercutem na educação escolar e no modo como os/as docentes organizam seus estudos e intervenções. Os/as estudantes tendem a “surfar” sobre o conhecimento social, isto é, entendem os conhecimentos como sendo temporários, superficiais e com datas de validade preestabelecidas. Dentro deste contexto muitas são as tentativas dos/as professores/as de utilizarem a informática como recurso didático. Nosso objetivo é problematizar se as aulas expositivas elaboradas no software Prezi podem ser “atrativas” para os/as “alunos/as surfistas”. Para tanto, no decorrer da pesquisa, utilizamos o método bibliográfico e como referencial teórico Bauman (2005; 2007; 2008; 2010; 2013); Gatti (2005), Hernández (2000; 2007). Frente aos resultados, consideramos que o Prezi pode constituir-se como recurso atrativo para os/as estudantes do Ensino Fundamental, Médio e Superior, tendo em vista a dinaminicidade proporcionada por suas ferramentas.
CURRÍCULO, SAÚDE E ESCOLA: TECNOLOGIAS BIOPOLÍTICAS NOS LIVROS DIDÁTICOS DE CIÊNCIAS
Authors: Germano Ana Paula , Cervi Giceli Maria
Published: April 2015

Este trabalho problematiza a formação de subjetividades por meio do currículo da escola e nela a estética das imagens sobre o corpo humano presentes em três livros de Ciências do ensino fundamental do oitavo ano. Tal fenômeno é discutido sob a ótica dos conceitos de biopoder e de biopolítica foucaultianos. Muitas são as tecnologias de poder operando por meio das representações do corpo presentes nesses livros. Dentre estas tecnologias, pode-se citar como exemplo o discurso médico, o esporte, a indústria cultural, a moda, a publicidade. As imagens presentes nos livros e selecionadas para a análise tanto se referem às explicações biológicas do funcionamento do corpo, quanto representam atitudes em relação à saúde ou, ainda, às práticas esportivas. Contudo, o que se pode ver de modo mais contundente nas imagens é certa padronização estética do corpo, tanto significando beleza quanto saúde. O que atua nessa padronização são complexas tecnologias biopolíticas, que podem criar formas de subjetividade em estudantes que os utilizam frequentemente, como noções distorcidas de beleza e saúde, padronização de atitudes, entre outros.
Setting analytical performance specifications based on outcome studies – is it possible?
Authors: Horvath Andrea Rita , Bossuyt Patrick M.M. , Sandberg Sverre , John Andrew St , Monaghan Phillip J. , Verhagen-Kamerbeek Wilma D.J. , Lennartz Lieselotte , Cobbaert Christa M. , Ebert Christoph , Lord Sarah J. , for the Test Evaluation Working Gro
Published: April 2015

The 1st Strategic Conference of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine proposed a simplified hierarchy for setting analytical performance specifications (APS). The top two levels of the 1999 Stockholm hierarchy, i.e., evaluation of the effect of analytical performance on clinical outcomes and clinical decisions have been proposed to be replaced by one outcome-based model. This model can be supported by: (1a) direct outcome studies; and (1b) indirect outcome studies investigating the impact of analytical performance of the test on clinical classifications or decisions and thereby on the probability of patient relevant clinical outcomes.

This paper reviews the need for outcome-based specifications, the most relevant types of outcomes to be considered, and the challenges and limitations faced when setting outcome-based APS. The methods of Model 1a and b are discussed and examples are provided for how outcome data can be translated to APS using the linked evidence and simulation or decision analytic techniques.

Outcome-based APS should primarily reflect the clinical needs of patients; should be tailored to the purpose, role and significance of the test in a well defined clinical pathway; and should be defined at a level that achieves net health benefit for patients at reasonable costs. Whilst it is acknowledged that direct evaluations are difficult and may not be possible for all measurands, all other forms of setting APS should be weighed against that standard, and regarded as approximations. Better definition of the relationship between the analytical performance of tests and health outcomes can be used to set analytical performance criteria that aim to improve the clinical and cost-effectiveness of laboratory tests.
Does a picture say more than 7000 words? Windows of opportunity to learn languages – an attempt at a creative reflective poster
Authors: Schaller-Schwaner Iris
Published: April 2015

This article originated in a creative attempt to engage audiences visually, on a poster, with ideas about language(s), teaching and learning which have been informing language education at university language centres. It was originally locally grounded and devised to take soundings with colleagues and with participants at the CercleS 2014 Conference hosted at the University of Fribourg. It uses a local campus building as a reflective canvas, as it were. Simultaneously, it deals with concepts of wider currency which may influence and engage language teachers’ awareness and practices in other tertiary contexts. The poster’s visual appeal not only contrasts with the linearity of academic writing but its open-endedness creates a space for exchange and discussion. It also creates a space for theory, which few practitioners will engage with of their own accord. The poster’s inherent dimension of interpretation by the viewer extends an invitation to respond. This article may render its content more tangible or accessible through verbal elaboration that complements the visual. The notions and cognitions discussed include reflection(s), languaging, a language formula, the Indo-European tree of languages, a multilingual linguistic sign, Douglas Adams’s Babel fish, the IPA vowel quadrilateral, a syntactic tree, and a pyramid of learning. Presenting this poster and article to a wider audience can be framed as a novel dialogue and dialectic about conceptualisations that are influential for university language teaching. It is also an unorthodox way of approaching theory didactically and with language teacher cognitions (
Teaching science subjects in Arabic: Arab university scientists’ perspectives
Authors: Alhamami Munassir
Published: April 2015

This study investigates Arab university scientists’ views of the status of English and Arabic in the 21st century, and their attitudes towards using English and Arabic as media of instruction in science faculties in the Arab world. Twenty-seven science instructors at a Saudi University coming from different backgrounds responded to a written survey, and the data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The findings reveal that the majority of the science instructors preferred to use the students’ mother tongue (Arabic) to teach science, even though the current policy is to use English as the medium of instruction. The results indicate that, from the perspective of Arab scientists, English as medium of instruction in Saudi universities presents academic and social challenges in science education at university undergraduate level.
Towards new cultures of learning: Personal learning environments as a developmental perspective for improving higher education language courses
Authors: Laakkonen Ilona , Taalas Peppi
Published: April 2015

This article provides readers with an understanding of the concept of the personal learning environment (PLE). It suggests that PLEs can be used in two complementary ways: as a developmental lens for integrating ICT and creating new pedagogical practices and digital literacies for academic language learning, and as a context in which learners can practise and develop core skills such as digital literacies, team and knowledge work, and interactional skills – skills that are needed for success in today’s knowledge economy. The article places PLEs within the broader development related to the cultural changes brought on by the proliferation of Web 2.0 technologies – participation, teamwork and co-design – and considers PLEs in relation to digital literacies and 21st-century skills. It then reports on a research-and-development project that makes use of design-based research and creates tools and models for learner-centred technology integration on the basis of a rich set of data and experiments. The article presents theoretical as well as practical insights into implementing PLEs in higher education (HE) language centre teaching and outlines principles for implementation in formal education. It concludes by expressing the need to purposefully balance the structure provided by traditional approaches to learning against ways of organising it with the nearly unlimited resources and participatory aspects afforded by the new media.
Novel Compact Asymmetric Coplanar Strip (ACPS)-Fed Zeroth-Order Resonant Antennas with Bandwidth Enhancement
Authors: Zhu Li , Gao Xiang-jun , Wang Guang-ming , Li Hai-peng
Published: April 2015

Two compact zeroth-order resonant antennas employing short-ended mu-negative transmission line (MNG-TL) are presented. Both antennas are fed by asymmetric coplanar strip (ACPS), so strong miniaturization and simple structure can be achieved. Proposed antenna 1 operates at 2.38–2.47 GHz (fractional bandwidth is 3.7%), with a size of 0.093
Single Air Bubble Breakup Experiments in Stirred Water Tank
Authors: Solsvik Jannike , Jakobsen Hugo A.
Published: April 2015

Single gas bubbles have been injected into an stirred liquid tank and the eventual breakup process of the bubbles was examined through high-speed imaging. Experimental observations of the breakup probability, breakup time, number of daughter bubbles and daughter bubble size distribution have been collected. The occurrence of non-equal-size breakup events dominated over equal-size breakup events. The frequency of binary and multiple breakup events was about equal. The largest uncertainty is associated with the determination of the breakup time because the bubbles take continuously altering deformed shapes already from the point of injection into the tank. The present experimental data do not support the standard model assumption regarding the number of daughter particles. The active breakup zone in the stirred tank was in the large velocity field close to the radial impeller. It is not evident whether the breakup events are due to time average shear or pressures and velocity fluctuations.
Family Shame
Authors: Adams Tony E.
Published: April 2015

In this essay, I use personal experience to offer a response to Robin M. Boylorn's Sweetwater.
More than Enough
Authors: Weems Mary E.
Published: April 2015

I wrote this for Bird as a response to the Sweetwater panel I both witnessed and participated in at the 10th International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry conference at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. As the editor of the Peter Lang book series “What's Going On: Black Studies and the Arts,” I had a particular interest in immersing myself in this tribute to one of my authors. The poem is both an investigation of and reflection of that moment.
Scenes from Sweetwater
Authors: Boylorn Robin M.
Published: April 2015

This is a chronological photo essay of images and scenes from rural North Carolina in the mid- to late-twentieth century, as depicted in Sweetwater: Black Women and Narratives of Resilience.
Germline PRKACA amplification causes variable phenotypes that may depend on the extent of the genomic defect: molecular mechanisms and clinical presentations
Authors: Lodish Maya B , Yuan Bo , Levy Isaac , Braunstein Glenn D , Lyssikatos Charalampos , Salpea Paraskevi , Szarek Eva , Karageorgiadis Alexander S , Belyavskaya Elena , Raygada Margarita , Faucz Fabio Rueda , Izatt Louise , Brain Caroline , Gardner James , Quezado Martha , Carney J Aidan , Lupski James R , Stratakis Constantine A
Published: April 2015

Objective

We have recently reported five patients with bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasia (BAH) and Cushing's syndrome (CS) caused by constitutive activation of the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A (PRKACA). By doing new in-depth analysis of their cytogenetic abnormality, we attempted a better genotype–phenotype correlation of theirPRKACAamplification.

Design

This study is a case series.

Methods

Molecular cytogenetic, genomic, clinical, and histopathological analyses were performed in five patients with CS.

Results

Reinvestigation of the defects of previously described patients by state-of-the-art molecular cytogenetics showed complex genomic rearrangements in the chromosome 19p13.2p13.12 locus, resulting in copy number gains encompassing the entirePRKACAgene; three patients (one sporadic case and two related cases) were observed with gains consistent with duplications, while two sporadic patients were observed with gains consistent with triplications. Although all five patients presented with ACTH-independent CS, the three sporadic patients had micronodular BAH and underwent bilateral adrenalectomy in early childhood, whereas the two related patients, a mother and a son, presented with macronodular BAH as adults. In at least one patient,PRKACAtriplication was associated with a more severe phenotype.

Conclusions

Constitutional chromosomalPRKACAgene amplification is a recently identified genetic defect associated with CS, a trait that may be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner or occurde novo. Genomic rearrangements can be complex and can result in different copy number states of dosage-sensitive genes, e.g., duplication and triplication.PRKACAamplification can lead to variable phenotypes clinically and pathologically, both micro- and macro-nodular BAH, the latter of which we speculate may depend on the extent of amplification.
The polymorphism of rs6505162 in the MIR423 coding region and recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Su Xing , Hu Yi , Li Ying , Cao Jing-Li , Wang Xue-Qin , Ma Xu , Xia Hong-Fei
Published: April 2015

Although the relationship between polymorphisms in microRNAs (miRNAs) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) has been studied, there is very little data available in the literature. In the present study, we scanned 55 potentially functional polymorphisms in the miRNA coding region in Chinese women with unexplained RPL (URPL; no. 2011-10). The rs6505162 C>A in theMIR423coding region was found to be significantly associated with the occurrence of human URPL. The rare A allele contributed to an increase in the expression of matureMIR423. C to A substitution in the polymorphism rs6505162 in pre-MIR423repressed cell proliferation and migratory capacity. Further investigations showed thatMIR423could inversely regulate the expression of proliferation-associated 2 group 4 (PA2G4) by binding the 3′-UTR ofPA2G4. Dual-luciferase assay indicated that the A allele in the polymorphism rs6505162 could more effectively suppress the expression ofPA2G4than the C allele could. Collectively, the present data suggest that rs6505162 C>A in pre-MIR423may contribute to the genetic predisposition to RPL by disrupting the production of matureMIR423and its target gene, which consequently interferes withMIR423functioning.
EFFECT OF THE EARLY INTENSIVE MULTIFACTORIAL THERAPY ON THE CARDIOVASCULAR RISK IN PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED TYPE 2 DIABETES: AN OBSERVATIONAL, PROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Stefan Ramona Maria , Nita Cristina , Craciun Anca , Rusu Adriana , Hancu Nicolae
Published: April 2015

Background and aims. We assessed if early intensive interventions improve the glycemic control and the modifiable cardiovascular diseases risk factors in Romanian patients with newly diagnosed type-2 diabetes during the first year follow-up period.Patients and methods. This was an observational, prospective study: 69 subjects were included in the analysis; each of them received intensive multi-factorial pharmacologic treatment and therapeutic education targeting hyperglycemia, weight, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Disease monitoring was done at months 0, 1, 3, 6 and 12 by assessment of anthropometric measurements, arterial blood pressure and biochemical parameters. The cardiovascular diseases risk factors were calculated using the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study Risk Engine.Results. The mean age at diagnosis was 53.61±10.66 years. All anthropometric variables (body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, visceral fat area, percentage of body fat), except for skeletal muscle mass, significantly decreased overtime. The majority of the biochemical parameters significantly decreased overtime. The non-fatal/fatal coronary heart disease risk significantly decreased at month 12 (9.74 [p<0.05] and 4.84 [p<0.05], respectively) compared to month 0 (19.66 and 11.10, respectively); a similar trend of the non-fatal/fatal stroke (risk at month 12, 8.30 [p<0.05] and 1.04 [p<0.05], respectively, while at month 0, 7.89 and 1.38, respectively) was recorded.Conclusions. Early multi-factorial treatment and intensive lifestyle interventions in patients newly diagnosed with type-2 diabetes could decrease with approximately 50% the rate of cardiovascular disease risk.
Arthroscopic management of proximal tibial fractures: technical note and case series presentation
Authors: Benea Horea , Tomoaia Gheorghe , Martin Artur , Bardas Ciprian
Published: April 2015

Background and aims. The purpose of this article is to describe a new surgical method of arthroscopy assisted treatment of intraarticular proximal tibial fractures (ARIF – arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation), analyzing its efficiency and safety on a series of patients. Tibial plateau fractures affect the proximal tibial metaphyseal and articular surface, representing 1.2% of all fractures and up to 8% of all fractures in elderly. Patients and method. Our case series consists of 6 patients with Schatzker types I-III tibial plateau fractures, treated in the Orthopedic and Traumatology Clinic of Cluj-Napoca from July 2012 to August 2014. Patients included in the study presented Schatzker type I-III tibial plateau fracture.Results. The results obtained with the arthroscopic method were excellent in 5 cases (mean Rasmussen score 27.60 points) and good in 1 case (mean score 23.75). The radiological consolidation appeared after a mean of 12 weeks. No major complication was noted.Conclusions. Diagnosis and treatment of associated lesions, shortening of hospitalization length and postoperative rehabilitation, but also the lower rate of complications, can make arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation the method of choice for the operative treatment of selected Schatzker I-III types of proximal tibial fractures.