bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forests of complex numbers
Authors: Nathanson Melvyn B.
Published: April 2016

The Calkin–Wilf tree is an infinite binary tree whose vertices are the positive rational numbers. Each number occurs in the tree exactly once and in the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are relatively prime positive integers. In this paper, certain subsemigroups of the modular group are used to construct similar trees in the set [Formula: see text] of positive complex numbers. Associated to each subsemigroup is a forest of trees that partitions [Formula: see text]. The fundamental domain and the set of cusps of the subsemigroup are defined and computed.
Square-free values of multivariate polynomials over function fields in linear sparse sets
Authors: Rosenberg Shai
Published: April 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a square-free polynomial where [Formula: see text] is a field of [Formula: see text] elements. We view [Formula: see text] as a polynomial in the variable [Formula: see text] with coefficients in the ring [Formula: see text]. We study square-free values of [Formula: see text] in sparse subsets of [Formula: see text] which are given by a linear condition. The motivation for our study is an analogue problem of representing square-free integers by integer polynomials, where it is conjectured that setting aside some simple exceptional cases, a square-free polynomial [Formula: see text] takes infinitely many square-free values. Let [Formula: see text] be co-prime to [Formula: see text], and let [Formula: see text]. A consequence of the main result we show is that if [Formula: see text] is sufficiently large with respect to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], then there exist [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is square-free. Moreover, as [Formula: see text], the last is true for almost all [Formula: see text]. The main result shows that a similar result holds also for other cases. We then generalize the results to multivariate polynomials.
Zeros of weakly holomorphic modular forms of level 5
Authors: Hanamoto Seiichi
Published: April 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be the space of weakly holomorphic modular forms of weight [Formula: see text] and level [Formula: see text] that are holomorphic away from the cusp at [Formula: see text]. We study a canonical basis for [Formula: see text] and the locations of zeros of this basis in a fundamental domain. We give a lower bound for the number of zeros lying on a lower boundary arc of the fundamental domain.
3-D printing: green or not?
Authors: Rejeski David
Published: April 2016

3-D printing could herald new advances in sustainable production, that is, so long as it does not become a sustainability hazard itself.
Personal fabrication: from automated machines to augmented tools
Authors: Moyer Ilan
Published: April 2016

Fully automated digital fabrication tools are the darling of the personal fabrication movement, but they may not be the best format for harnessing digital fabrication for personal use. Instead we should be developing tools that work cooperatively with users to augment natural abilities rather than eliminate human involvement altogether.
Electroanalytical Ventures at Nanoscale Interfaces Between Immiscible Liquids
Authors: Arrigan Damien W.M. , Liu Yang
Published: April 2016

Ion transfer at the interface between immiscible electrolyte solutions offers many benefits to analytical chemistry, including the ability to detect nonredox active ionized analytes, to detect ions whose redox electrochemistry is accompanied by complications, and to separate ions based on electrocontrolled partition. Nanoscale miniaturization of such interfaces brings the benefits of enhanced mass transport, which in turn leads to improved analytical performance in areas such as sensitivity and limits of detection. This review discusses the development of such nanoscale interfaces between immiscible liquids and examines the analytical advances that have been made to date, including prospects for trace detection of ion concentrations.
Reactive Oxygen Species and Neutrophil Function
Authors: Winterbourn Christine C. , Kettle Anthony J. , Hampton Mark B.
Published: April 2016

Neutrophils are essential for killing bacteria and other microorganisms, and they also have a significant role in regulating the inflammatory response. Stimulated neutrophils activate their NADPH oxidase (NOX2) to generate large amounts of superoxide, which acts as a precursor of hydrogen peroxide and other reactive oxygen species that are generated by their heme enzyme myeloperoxidase. When neutrophils engulf bacteria they enclose them in small vesicles (phagosomes) into which superoxide is released by activated NOX2 on the internalized neutrophil membrane. The superoxide dismutates to hydrogen peroxide, which is used by myeloperoxidase to generate other oxidants, including the highly microbicidal species hypochlorous acid. NOX activation occurs at other sites in the cell, where it is considered to have a regulatory function. Neutrophils also release oxidants, which can modify extracellular targets and affect the function of neighboring cells. We discuss the identity and chemical properties of the specific oxidants produced by neutrophils in different situations, and what is known about oxidative mechanisms of microbial killing, inflammatory tissue damage, and signaling.
Interleukin-19 induces angiogenesis in the absence of hypoxia by direct and indirect immune mechanisms
Authors: Kako Farah , Gabunia Khatuna , Ray Mitali , Kelemen Sheri E. , England Ross N. , Kako Bashar , Scalia Rosario G. , Autieri Michael V.
Published: April 2016

Neovascularization and inflammation are independent biological processes but are linked in response to injury. The role of inflammation-dampening cytokines in the regulation of angiogenesis remains to be clarified. The purpose of this work was to test the hypothesis that IL-19 can induce angiogenesis in the absence of tissue hypoxia and to identify potential mechanisms. Using the aortic ring model of angiogenesis, we found significantly reduced sprouting capacity in aortic rings from IL-19−/− compared with wild-type mice. Using an in vivo assay, we found that IL-19−/− mice respond to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) significantly less than wild-type mice and demonstrate decreased capillary formation in Matrigel plugs. IL-19 signals through the IL-20 receptor complex, and IL-19 induces IL-20 receptor subunit expression in aortic rings and cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells, but not endothelial cells, in a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ-dependent mechanism. IL-19 activates STAT3, and IL-19 angiogenic activity in aortic rings is STAT3-dependent. Using a quantitative RT-PCR screening assay, we determined that IL-19 has direct proangiogenic effects on aortic rings by inducing angiogenic gene expression. M2 macrophages participate in angiogenesis, and IL-19 has indirect angiogenic effects, as IL-19-stimulated bone marrow-derived macrophages secrete proangiogenic factors that induce greater sprouting of aortic rings than unstimulated controls. Using a quantitative RT-PCR screen, we determined that IL-19 induces expression of angiogenic cytokines in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Together, these data suggest that IL-19 can promote angiogenesis in the absence of hypoxia by at least two distinct mechanisms: 1) direct effects on vascular cells and 2) indirect effects by stimulation of macrophages.
Evolutionary Specialization of Tactile Perception in Vertebrates
Authors: Schneider Eve R. , Gracheva Elena O. , Bagriantsev Slav N.
Published: April 2016

Evolution has endowed vertebrates with the remarkable tactile ability to explore the world through the perception of physical force. Yet the sense of touch remains one of the least well understood senses at the cellular and molecular level. Vertebrates specializing in tactile perception can highlight general principles of mechanotransduction. Here, we review cellular and molecular adaptations that underlie the sense of touch in typical and acutely mechanosensitive vertebrates.
Call to Action for Nurses/Nursing
Authors: Premji Shahirose S. , Hatfield Jennifer
Published: April 2016

The 13 million nurses worldwide constitute most of the global healthcare workforce and are uniquely positioned to engage with others to address disparities in healthcare to achieve the goal of better health for all. A new vision for nurses involves active participation and collaboration with international colleagues across research practice and policy domains. Nursing can embrace new concepts and a new approach—“One World, One Health”—to animate nursing engagement in global health, as it is uniquely positioned to participate in novel ways to improve healthcare for the well-being of the global community. This opinion paper takes a historical and reflective approach to inform and inspire nurses to engage in global health practice, research, and policy to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. It can be argued that a colonial perspective currently informs scholarship pertaining to nursing global health engagement. The notion of unidirectional relationships where those with resources support training of those less fortunate has dominated the framing of nursing involvement in low- and middle-income countries. This paper suggests moving beyond this conceptualization to a more collaborative and equitable approach that positions nurses as cocreators and brokers of knowledge. We propose two concepts, reverse innovation and two-way learning, to guide global partnerships where nurses are active participants.
Complement Factor 3 Could Be an Independent Risk Factor for Mortality in Patients with HBV Related Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Zhang Geng-lin , Zhang Ting , Ye Yi-nong , Liu Jing , Zhang Xiao-hong , Xie Chan , Peng Liang , Gao Zhi-liang
Published: April 2016

The complement is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of multiple liver disorders. However, its role in patients with HBV related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) remains unclear. Serum levels of the third and fourth complement components (C3, C4) and complement function (CH50) were examined in this prospective, observational study. Associations between their expression and disease activity were analyzed. Survival was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curves. Predictors of clinical outcome were determined by Cox regression analysis. C3, C4, and CH50 levels were significantly lower in HBV-ACLF patients compared to controls. C3, C4, and CH50 levels were negatively correlated with Tbil levels but positively associated with PTA levels. C3 levels were negatively associated with MELD-Na. C3 levels were significantly lower in HBV-ACLF patients who died compared to patients who survived. In a median hospital stay of 39 days, mortality occurred in 41 patients with a progressive increase based on C3 grade (P=0.008). The actuarial probability of developing mortality was significantly higher in patients with low C3 grade compared to those with high C3 grade (P<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that C3 levels were an independent predictor of mortality. Complement played a pathogenic role in HBV-ACLF patients and C3 was an independent predictor of mortality.
5G: Vision and Requirements for Mobile Communication System towards Year 2020
Authors: Liu Guangyi , Jiang Dajie
Published: April 2016

The forecast for future 10 years’ traffic demand shows an increase in 1000 scales and more than 100 billion connections of Internet of Things, which imposes a big challenge for future mobile communication technology beyond year 2020. The mobile industry is struggling in the challenges of high capacity demand but low cost for future mobile network when it starts to enable a connected mobile world. 5G is targeted to shed light on these contradictory demands towards year 2020. This paper firstly forecasts the vision of mobile communication’s application in the daily life of the society and then figures out the traffic trends and demands for next 10 years from the Mobile Broadband (MBB) service and Internet of Things (IoT) perspective, respectively. The requirements from the specific service and user demands are analyzed, and the specific requirements from typical usage scenarios are calculated by the defined performance indicators. To achieve the target of affordable 5G service, the requirements from network deployment and operation perspective are also captured. Finally, the capabilities and the efficiency requirements of the 5G system are demonstrated as a flower. To realize the vision of 5G, “information a finger away, everything in touch,” 5G will provide the fiber-like access data rate, “zero” latency user experience, and connecting to more than 100 billion devices and deliver a consistent experience across a variety of scenarios with the improved energy and cost efficiency by over a hundred of times.
A Cross-National Study of Students’ Understanding of Genetics Concepts: Implications from Similarities and Differences in England and Turkey
Authors: Kılıç Didem , Taber Keith S. , Winterbottom Mark
Published: April 2016

This research is aimed at exploring 16- to 19-year-old students’ understanding of fundamental genetics concepts, which has considerable importance for developing conceptual understanding of genetics related phenomena. A cross-national descriptive research method was used to explore English and Turkish students’ understandings of genetics concepts. Data were collected by a two-tier multiple choice diagnostic instrument, The Two-Tier Genetics Concept Test, which required students to justify their choice of option by giving a reason. The results indicate that there are some differences between the English students’ and Turkish students’ understanding of fundamental concepts of genetics; however, there are some notable similarities between the alternative conceptions held by students in the two samples. The common alternative conceptions seen in both of the groups indicate that understanding the concepts occurred regardless of contextual factors. Nevertheless different proportions of the common alternative conceptions and different levels of understanding suggest that conceptualisations develop under the influence of different educational contexts.
Cocobiota: Implications for Human Health
Authors: Petyaev Ivan M. , Bashmakov Yuriy K.
Published: April 2016

Manufacturing of dark chocolate and other cocoa-based products is a complex multistage process beginning with spontaneous cocoa bean fermentation driven in the postharvest period by different microorganisms derived from the environment. Cocobiota defined as the association of microbial species involved in cocoa bean fermentation may have considerable impact on the medicinal properties of cocoa products via various primary and secondary metabolites, whose presence in dark chocolate and other cocoa-derived products has to be taken into consideration when analyzing medicinal effects of cocoa. Metabolites of acetic acid and lactic acid bacteria, two major cocobiota members, are recently shown to have considerable antifungal and cholesterol-lowering activities and promote the formation of short chain fatty acids and mannitol, an important prebiotic capable of modifying gut microbiota.Penicillium citrinum, a major type of fungi identifiable in fermented cocoa beans, produces a thermostable alkaloid, Penicitrinine A, as well as lovastatin, compounds with antineoplastic and cholesterol-lowering abilities, respectively. Moreover, recent results suggest that bacterial and fungal metabolites produced by cocobiota have a significant anti-infective potential. Therefore, various metabolites produced by cocobiota can mimic some medicinal effects of dark chocolate and other cocoa-derived products previously attributed to cocoa flavonoids and methylxanthines and need to be thoroughly investigated inin vitroandin vivosystems.
The Functional IgE-Blocking Factor Induced by Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy Correlates with IgG4 Antibodies and a Decrease of Symptoms in House Dust Mite-Allergic Children
Authors: Zhao Deyu , Lai Xuxin , Tian Man , Jiang Yanhe , Zheng Yiwu , Gjesing Birgitte , Zhong Nanshan , Spangfort Michael D.
Published: April 2016

Background: At present, there are no validated biomarkers reflecting or predicting the clinical efficacy of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) . We aimed to investigate the correlations between clinical and immunological responses of patients undergoing house dust mite (HDM) AIT. Methods: Sixty-nine children diagnosed with HDM allergic rhinitis and/or asthma received standardized Dermatophagoidespteronyssinus (Dp) subcutaneous AIT for 12 months. Twenty HDM-allergic children served as an open control group. Clinical symptom and medication scores were recorded and Dp-specific IgE, IgG4 and IgE-blocking factor were measured before AIT and after 4 and 12 months of AIT. Results: Symptom scores decreased after 4 months and continued to decrease during 12 months of AIT. No differences in medication scores were observed between AIT and the control group during the study period. Levels of Dp IgG4 increased after 4 months and correlated to symptom scores at 12 months (r = -0.296, p = 0.013) of AIT. The Dp IgE-blocking factor increased after 4 months of AIT, and correlated with symptom scores at 4 months (r = -0.307, p = 0.010) and 12 months (r = -0.288, p = 0.016) of AIT. A strong correlation between Dp IgE-blocking factor and Dp IgG4 during AIT (4 months: r = 0.680; 12 months: r = 0.636, both p < 0.0001) was observed. Patients with IgE-blocking factor ≥0.2 after 4 months of AIT showed lower symptom scores at 12 months of AIT (p = 0.0093). Conclusions: Subcutaneous HDM AIT results in a decrease of allergic symptoms among HDM-allergic children. IgE-blocking activity increased after 4 months of AIT and correlated with clinical symptoms. A high IgE-blocking factor at an early stage of AIT is associated with fewer symptoms at a later stage of AIT.
Ani s 11-Like Protein Is a Pepsin- and Heat-Resistant Major Allergen of Anisakis spp. and a Valuable Tool for Anisakis Allergy Component-Resolved Diagnosis
Authors: Carballeda-Sangiao Noelia , Rodríguez-Mahillo Ana I. , Careche Mercedes , Navas Alfonso , Caballero Teresa , Dominguez-Ortega Javier , Jurado-Palomo Jesús , González-Muñoz Miguel
Published: April 2016

Background:Anisakis simplex is a fish parasite responsible for gastrointestinal and allergic symptoms in humans. The Ani s 11-like protein has been proposed as an Anisakis allergen because its primary structure is similar to that of Ani s 11. The aims of this work were to analyse the frequency of detection of the Ani s 11-like protein and assess its diagnostic value. Methods: rAni s 11-like protein, rAni s 5 and rAni s 4 were expressed in Escherichia coli and rAni s 1 was produced in Pichia pastoris. Recombinant allergen detection patterns in 37 Anisakis-sensitised patients were determined. The stability to pepsin digestion and heat treatment of rAni s 11-like protein was also analysed by IgE immunoblotting. Results: Ani s 11-like protein is a major allergen detected by 78% of Anisakis-allergic patients, and 13.5% of patients detect only the rAni s 11-like allergen. This allergen is heat stable because it retains its capability of binding IgE after boiling for 30 min and it is resistant to pepsin digestion for 120 min. Conclusions: These data indicate that the Ani s 11-like protein is a pepsin- and heat-resistant major allergen (Ani s 11.0201) of Anisakis spp. and a valuable tool for Anisakis allergy component-resolved diagnosis.
A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study to Compare Acupuncture and Dapoxetine for the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Sahin Selcuk , Bicer Mualla , Yenice Mustafa Gurkan , Seker Kamil Gökhan , Yavuzsan Abdullah Hizir , Tugcu Volkan
Published: April 2016

Purpose: To compare the safety and efficacy of dapoxetine and acupuncture for the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE) with other treatment methods. Methods: One hundred twenty patients with PE in an outpatient urology clinic were randomized to receive dapoxetine 30 mg and 60 mg, acupuncture or sham acupuncture. The intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), the PE diagnostic tool (PEDT) score, and adverse events were compared. Results: There were no differences between the groups in terms of age, body mass index, baseline IELT and PEDT scores (p > 0.05). After 4 weeks, IELT was significantly longer compared to baseline values in all groups (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Comparisons between the groups showed that changes in IELT and PEDT observed after 4 weeks with dapoxetine 60 mg was significantly higher than those achieved in all other groups (p < 0.001 for all comparisons), changes observed with dapoxetine 30 mg was significantly higher than those achieved with acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups (p < 0.001 for both comparisons) and changes observed with acupuncture was significantly higher than those observed with sham acupuncture (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our results confirm previous reports on the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine. Although less effective than dapoxetine, acupuncture had a significant ejaculation-delaying effect.
O processo de alfabetização e a produção do sentido no discurso escrito
Authors: Goulart Cecilia M. A.
Published: April 2016

O estudo tem como objetivo compreender aspectos do processo de alfabetização infantil por meio da análise de indícios da reflexão sobre a escrita e a linguagem por parte de uma criança. Busca-se evidenciar a presença do sujeito na linguagem, no contexto da opacidade da realidade e da linguagem, pela análise dos modos de constituição de um texto escrito. Selecionamos, por sua originalidade, o texto escrito de uma menina de 5 anos, parte do banco de dados do grupo de pesquisa Linguagem, cultura e processos educativos/CNPq. Aspectos da teoria da enunciação de Bakhtin, da constituição da escrita e da relação entre oralidade e letramento são vetores da base teórico-metodológica. O saber indiciário utilizado tem como base o método de conhecimento cuja força está na observação do pormenor revelador, do detalhe. Na análise do texto da menina, observamos como diferentes sistemas representacionais convivem em seu esforço para significar por escrito. Sistemas orientados por princípios organizacionais distintos são utilizados com funções variadas, e, por vezes, apresentam instabilidades no uso da mesma função. Os diferentes signos são orientados para o interlocutor, o auditório social (Bakhtin, 1998). Na análise, sobressai a seleção de palavras dos enunciados, realizada a partir das intenções que presidem o seu todo, e, na perspectiva da tensão interna que existe em qualquer signo, de acordo com Bakhtin. Aprender a escrever abrange conhecer o princípio alfabético da escrita no interior de complexa trama de outros conhecimentos envolvida na produção de linguagem com valor social. É importante entender a aprendizagem da escrita como um processo marcado por instabilidades e estabilidades, e as crianças como pessoas capazes de aprender complexamente.
Smooth Muscle Enriched Long Noncoding RNA (
SMILR
) Regulates Cell Proliferation
Authors: Ballantyne Margaret D. , Pinel Karine , Dakin Rachel , Vesey Alex T. , Diver Louise , Mackenzie Ruth , Garcia Raquel , Welsh Paul , Sattar Naveed , Hamilton Graham , Joshi Nikhil , Dweck Marc R. , Miano Joseph M. , McBride Martin W. , Newby David E. , McDonald Robert A. , Baker Andrew H.
Published: April 2016

Background—

Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells from a contractile to a synthetic state is implicated in diverse vascular pathologies, including atherogenesis, plaque stabilization, and neointimal hyperplasia. However, very little is known about the role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) during this process. Here, we investigated a role for lncRNAs in vascular smooth muscle cell biology and pathology.

Methods and Results—

Using RNA sequencing, we identified >300 lncRNAs whose expression was altered in human saphenous vein vascular smooth muscle cells following stimulation with interleukin-1α and platelet-derived growth factor. We focused on a novel lncRNA (Ensembl: RP11-94A24.1), which we termed smooth muscle–induced lncRNA enhances replication (
SMILR
). Following stimulation,
SMILR
expression was increased in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, and was detected in conditioned media. Furthermore, knockdown of
SMILR
markedly reduced cell proliferation. Mechanistically, we noted that expression of genes proximal to
SMILR
was also altered by interleukin-1α/platelet-derived growth factor treatment, and
HAS2
expression was reduced by
SMILR
knockdown. In human samples, we observed increased expression of
SMILR
in unstable atherosclerotic plaques and detected increased levels in plasma from patients with high plasma C-reactive protein.

Conclusions—

These results identify
SMILR
as a driver of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and suggest that modulation of
SMILR
may be a novel therapeutic strategy to reduce vascular pathologies.
Biological and biochemical characterization of venom from the broad-banded copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix laticinctus): isolation of two new dimeric disintegrins
Authors: Rodríguez-Acosta Alexis , Lucena Sara , Alfonso Andrea , Goins Amber , Walls Robert , Guerrero Belsy , Suntravat Montamas , Sánchez Elda E.
Published: April 2016

Disintegrins represent a family of effective cell-cell and cell-matrix inhibitors by binding to integrin receptors. Integrins are heterodimeric, transmembrane receptors that are the bridges for these cell interactions. Disintegrins have been shown to have many therapeutic implications for the treatment of strokes, heart attacks, and cancer. Two novel heterodimeric disintegrins were isolated from the venom of the broad-banded copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix laticinctus). Crude venom separated by cation-exchange chromatography resulted in several fractions possessing hemorrhagic, fibrinolytic, gelatinase, and platelet activities. Venom fractions 2-3 and 17-19 showed fibrinolytic activity. Fractions 2-6, 8-11, and 16-21 had hemorrhagic activity. Gelatinase activity was found in fractions 3, 11, and 19. The isolation of laticinstatins 1 and 2 was accomplished by fractionating crude venom using reverse phase chromatography. Data from both SDS-PAGE and N-terminal sequencing determined that laticinstatins 1 and 2 were heterodimeric disintegrins, and both were assayed for their ability to inhibit platelet aggregation in human whole blood. Future functional evaluation of snake venom disintegrins shows considerable promise for elucidating the biochemical mechanisms of integrin-ligand interactions that will allow the development of adequate medications for hemostatic pathologies such as thrombosis, stroke, and cerebral and cardiac accidents. In this study, we are presenting the first report of the purification, and partial characterization of two new dimeric disintegrins isolated from the venom of broad-banded copperhead snakes.
Disability quotas: Past or future policy?
Authors: Sargeant Malcolm , Radevich-Katsaroumpa Elena , Innesti Alessandra
Published: April 2016

This article considers the issues associated with the use of quota systems for the employment of workers with a disability. It examines the use and experiences of such quotas in Italy, Russia and the United Kingdom. Italy has a long established quota system for the employment of such workers, whilst the modern Russian system is a more recent innovation. In contrast, the UK abandoned quotas in the 1990s. The article draws on the experiences of the three countries to consider generally whether the use of quotas is an acceptable means of encouraging employers to take on disabled workers, or necessary to achieve this objective.
Comparative research
Authors: Engbers Trent A
Published: April 2016

The teaching of research methods has been at the core of public administration education for almost 30 years. But since 1990, this journal has published only two articles on the teaching of research methods. Given the increasing emphasis on data driven decision-making, greater insight is needed into the best practices for teaching public administration research methods. This research note attempts to build on these previous articles to offer a new approach to the teaching of undergraduate research methods within a department of political science and public administration. The approach combines traditional approaches to experiential education with a focus on comparison among different methodological tools. Grounded in both learning theory and developmental psychology, the article outlines a research method assignment that encourages comparison and uses focus groups and pre-/post-tests of substantive knowledge to demonstrate learning. Implications and advice for teaching are provided.
Self-Management Skills in Chronic Disease Management
Authors: Mackey Laura M. , Doody Catherine , Werner Erik L. , Fullen Brona
Published: April 2016

Background. Self-management–based interventions can lead to improved health outcomes in people with chronic diseases, and multiple patient characteristics are associated with the development of self-management behaviors. Low health literacy (HL) has been implicated in poorer self-management behaviors and increased costs to health services. However, the mechanisms behind this relationship remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of the current review is to assess the association between HL and patient characteristics related to self-management behaviors (i.e., disease-related knowledge, beliefs, and self-efficacy). Methods. The review comprised 3 phases: 1) database searches, 2) eligibility screening, and 3) study quality assessment and strength of evidence. Inclusion criteria specified that a valid HL screening tool was used, that at least one self-management behavior was assessed, and that patients had a chronic condition. Results. An initial search generated a total of 712 articles, of which 31 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. A consistent association was found between low HL and poorer disease-related knowledge in respiratory diseases, diabetes, and multiple disease categories. A significant association between low HL and poorer self-efficacy was reported in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus, and multiple disease categories. HL was significantly associated with poorer beliefs in respiratory, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular diseases. Discussion. The findings from the current review suggest that low HL may affect behaviors necessary for the development of self-management skills. Given that self-management strategies are core components for effective treatment of a range of chronic diseases, low HL poses a considerable health concern. Further research is needed to understand the mediating influence of HL on disease-related knowledge, self-efficacy, and beliefs. From this, HL-sensitive, self-management interventions ought to be devised and implemented.
Languages of subalternity and collaboration: Portuguese in English settlements across the Bay of Bengal, 1620–1800
Authors: Halikowski Smith Stefan
Published: April 2016

The substantial Portuguese populations across the Bay of Bengal, seeking protection in the fortified settlements of the English East India Company, were more compliant than those populations in western India, for whom the English often remained an enemy. On the east coast of India there were not twenty-four, but only one Portuguese fortress. Thus the Portuguese formed groups of subaltern collaborators, contributing to the well-being of English settlements in different ways including: through the provision of civil defence, freight services and active capital investment; as intermediaries in the diamond trade, as tavern-owners, registrars, doctors and even aldermen, but also as concubines and domestic slaves. Many Portuguese converted to Protestantism, supported by contemporary Portuguese translations of the Book of Common Prayer, while others sought other assimilationist strategies, including sending children to Britain for schooling. While scholars have attached due importance to renegadism and to service to various Indian rulers, these defections to rival Protestant powers have gone unnoticed.
Feasibility study on using thioether as an emergency backup lubrication system on a large helicopter main gearbox
Authors: Duan Fang , Tee Shy Chuan , Corsar Michael , Healey Alastair , Kleine-Beek Werner , Mba David
Published: April 2016

The oil lubrication system is a critical part of the helicopter main gearbox (MGB) and this is evident in the many accidents and incidents over the last 30 years. On a category A rotorcraft, a regulatory requirement mandates the MGB to sustain operation for at least 30 minutes following the loss of the primary oil lubrication pressure. The aim of this study was to undertake a comparative investigation into the performance of mist lubrication, using commercially available thioether (MCS-293™), on a category A helicopter MGB under loss of oil conditions. Experimental observations highlighted that the high-speed input module of the MGB attained the highest temperature and was a limiting factor to continued gearbox operation under loss of oil conditions. Results showed that by routing thioether mist through existing galleries within the MGB a lower rate of temperature increase was achieved, in comparison with a dry-run condition.
Response of viscoelastic damping system modeled by fractional viscoelastic oscillator
Authors: Li ZL , Sun DG , Han BH , Sun B , Zhang X , Meng J , Liu FX
Published: April 2016

The fractional model considering geometric factor of viscoelastic damping systems is proposed by adopting fractional viscoelastic oscillator. To obtain dynamic responses of the fractional model, a numerical method is derived based on matrix function theory and Grumwald–Letnikov discrete form of fractional derivative. As a special engineering application example, the vibration response of the viscoelastic suspension installed in heavy crawler-type vehicles is studied through the proposed model. Furthermore, the parameter influence on the vibration control capability of the viscoelastic suspension is researched. The results indicate that the fractional viscoelastic oscillator is a favorable choice to characterize the dynamic behavior of viscoelastic damping structures. Additionally, the parameters in fractional viscoelastic oscillator namely geometric factor and fractional order exert considerable impact on the dynamic response of viscoelastic damping structures.
Small-scale moisture availability increase during the 8.2-ka climatic event inferred from biotic proxy records in the South Carpathians (SE Romania)
Authors: Pál Ilona , Magyari Enikő Katalin , Braun Mihály , Vincze Ildikó , Pálfy József , Molnár Mihály , Finsinger Walter , Buczkó Krisztina
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we present high-resolution early Holocene pollen, plant macrofossil, charcoal, diatom, biogenic silica, and loss-on-ignition records from a mountain lake in the South Carpathians in order to reveal ecosystem response to the 8.2-ka climatic oscillation. We found significant changes both in terrestrial vegetation and lake diatom assemblages in the northern slope of the Retezat Mts between c. 8300 and 8000 cal. yr BP. Rapid changes in relative frequencies and pollen accumulation rates of the major deciduous pollen types associated with peaks in microcharcoal accumulation rates suggested that vegetation disturbance mainly took place in the mixed-deciduous forest zone, where woodland fires partially destroyed the populations of Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus, and Corylus avellana and facilitated the establishment of Carpinus betulus in the forest openings. The diatom record furthermore showed the spread of a planktonic diatom species, Aulacoseira valida, at 8150 cal. yr BP, coincidently with a short-lived expansion of C. betulus. Since diatom blooms mainly occur in spring in the Retezat Mts, increased spring water depth and increased water turbulence were inferred from these data. The expansion of C. betulus against F. excelsior and C. avellana at the same time suggested a modest increase in available moisture during the growing season. Taken together, these data imply that during the 8.2-ka event, winter and spring season available moisture increased, while summers were characterized by alternating moist/cool and dry/warm conditions.
Factors Influencing Changes in Eating Patterns Among Hong Kong Young Adults Transitioning to Tertiary Education
Authors: Kwok Sin Tung , Capra Sandra , Leveritt Michael
Published: April 2016

Transitioning to tertiary education is a significant life course event that has the potential to influence lifelong eating patterns. This study used a theoretic model developed from a life course perspective to examine factors influencing the change of food choices among 31 young adults in Hong Kong after they moved on to tertiary education. Qualitative analysis of transcripts based on the constant comparative method revealed that present life course experiences, especially increased autonomy, and social-environmental factors strongly influenced young adults’ present food choices. A model was developed from life course theory and social-ecological theory to reflect the factors that led to change of food choices among participants. The model provides unique insights on food choices of the future adult population. It could also be used as a reference for the development of nutrition education interventions targeting tertiary students as they experience increased autonomy. In conclusion, food choices of young adults on transitioning to tertiary education are strongly influenced by increased autonomy and change of social and environmental factors.
Fantasy-Driven Versus Contact-Driven Users of Child Sexual Exploitation Material: Offender Classification and Implications for Their Risk Assessment
Authors: Merdian Hannah L. , Moghaddam Nima , Boer Douglas P. , Wilson Nick , Thakker Jo , Curtis Cate , Dawson Dave
Published: April 2016

Since the advent of the Internet, convictions for the possession, display, trading, and distribution of child sexual exploitation material (CSEM) have risen steadily, but little is known about their appropriate assessment and treatment, especially concerning their risk of reoffending. It has been suggested that a conceptual distinction of fantasy- versus contact-driven CSEM users might be of merit. Sixty-eight offenders recruited from sex offender treatment providers were assessed via an anonymous computer survey including a variety of clinical and risk-related variables; the findings showed differences in the psychological profiles between CSEM users and contact child sex offenders. Numerical and spatial methods of data analysis were used to identify subgroups of CSEM users; these confirmed the twofold distinction of fantasy- versus contact-driven offending. The spatial representation of participants identified three dimensions as crucial in the classification of these subgroups: direct sexual contact with a minor, possession of fantasy-generating material, and social contact with other users with a sexual interest in minors; potentially differentiating distinct offender subgroups with different risks and needs. The current study informed the development of an empirical model of CSEM users that could aid in the assessment of risk of reoffending and cross-over to contact sex offending.
Support across life course regimes. A comparative model of social work as construction of social problems, needs, and rights
Authors: Walther Andreas
Published: April 2016

This article aims at contributing to a systematisation of comparative social work research with regard to reflection on its purpose, object, and methodology. On one hand, models and approaches from comparative welfare and education are presented and applied to comparative social work research. On the other hand, a theoretical and methodological framework model is suggested which develops comparative social work research from a life course perspective which allows to contextualise social work practice in terms of the functions and meanings it takes in different societies. This model of life course regimes is based on a series of comparative studies on young people's transitions to adulthood and the public policy and practice addressing them.

Findings

The model of life course regimes provides a framework of contextual knowledge which enables interpretation by relating comparative findings with regard to social work to the respective societal contexts. It represents a framework for clustering different constellations of social integration and normality providing social work with specific functions and meanings.

Application

The model of life course regimes may inform the sampling of comparative studies as well as guiding the process of interpretation and analysis. Apart from this it represents a source of critical reflexivity both for theory and practice.
On Marx’s human significance, Harvey’s right to the city, and Nussbaum’s capability approach
Authors: Basta Claudia
Published: April 2016

In this article, I juxtapose David Harvey’s idea of the ‘right to the city’ and Martha Nussbaum’s central human capability of ‘control over one’s environment’, and I approach them from the perspective of their mutual convergence on Marx’s conception of human significance. In particular, I compare how Marx’s conception reverberates in Harvey’s right to the city as human right and in Nussbaum’s control over the environment as central human capability. I discuss how the language of capabilities through which the latter scholar articulates her political liberalism offers ‘important supplementations’ to the language of human rights through which the former scholar articulates his critical discourse. I conclude that the evaluative character of Nussbaum’s capability approach could advance a novel stream in planning theory centred on human development. To elaborate on such potential, I propose the notion of people’s ‘urban functionings’, and I discuss how this notion could provide new interpretative lenses through which to renew the idea of ‘right to the city’.
Women-Centered and Culturally Responsive Heart Health Promotion Among Indigenous Women in Canada
Authors: Ziabakhsh Shabnam , Pederson Ann , Prodan-Bhalla Natasha , Middagh Diane , Jinkerson-Brass Sharon
Published: April 2016

Most women in Canada confront a combination of bio-psychosocial factors that put them at risk for cardiovascular disease. The challenge for health planners is to address these factors while contextualizing interventions that meet the specific needs of particular social and cultural groupings. The article will discuss a women-centered, group-based heart health pilot initiative designed to engage with indigenous approaches to healing. The nurse practitioners co-led the group with a representative from the indigenous community to balance women-centered practices with more traditional and culturally appropriate ones. In particular, indigenous processes, such as a Talking Circle, combined with indigenous knowledge/content were integrated into the pilot program. The project was evaluated to investigate its outcomes (how the intervention impacted the participants) and processes (how participants perceived the intervention). Evaluation involved analysis of the Talking Circle’s content, a focus group, field observations, and self-completed surveys. Most women made changes regarding their diet, some began physical activities, and others focused on better managing their emotional health. Women viewed the group as successful because it embraced both women-centered and culturally appropriate health promotion practices. The intervention created a culturally safe space for learning and transformation. The findings confirm the need for employing culturally relevant, gender-specific approaches to heart health promotion that are situated in and responsive to community needs.
Condensational symbols in British press coverage of Boko Haram
Authors: Ette Mercy
Published: April 2016

This study of British press coverage of Boko Haram, a militant group in Nigeria, concentrates on condensational symbols in news reports of one of its major acts of terrorism, the bombing of the United Nations House in Abuja, the country’s capital city, in August 2011. The study examines the visibility of Boko Haram in British newspapers before and after the attack. It identifies the condensational symbols that dominated the coverage and how these provided a particular trajectory that could have shaped newspaper readers’ understanding of the event. The study argues that the symbolic terms that journalists used in their reports were not only easily identifiable but were specifically chosen to simplify a complex story for audiences that were perhaps uninformed about the group and its activities. The terms also reflect the repertoire of news frames that journalists mine to reconstruct reality for their audiences.
Between regional community and global society: Europe in the shadow of Schmitt and Kojève
Authors: Rech Walter , Grzybowski Janis
Published: April 2016

While celebrated for bringing peace and prosperity to the region, European integration has been recently challenged by various internal and external crises that call the progressivist narrative of ever closer—and larger—union into question. Torn between regional community and global society, particularism and cosmopolitanism, and politics and technocracy, the European Union appears beset by fundamental tensions. In search of a different theoretical perspective on “the crisis,” some commentators have drawn on Carl Schmitt’s political theory to emphasize key issues concerning political decisions, identities, and boundaries in Europe. Yet, Schmitt comes with his own blind spots. For the purpose of a critical engagement with Schmitt’s potential insights and their limits, this article contrasts his approach with that of his contemporary Alexandre Kojève, who envisioned the integration of world society through economy, law, technology, and administration, a perspective not unfamiliar to the original story of European integration. In reconsidering the dialectic between Schmitt’s and Kojève’s positions, this article goes beyond their apparent contradictions and discusses attempts by both authors to reconcile the opposition, from Kojève’s move to Empires to Schmitt’s theory of the union, thereby illuminating deep-seated dilemmas of contemporary European politics which fundamentally condition its trajectory between contestation and re-constitution.
Preliminary Development of a Multidimensional Semantic Patient Experience Measurement Questionnaire
Authors: Kleiss James A.
Published: April 2016

Objective:

The purpose of this research was to assess the utility and reliability of a multidimensional patient experience measurement questionnaire in a clinical setting.

Background:

Patient experience has emerged as an important metric for quality of healthcare. A number of separate concepts have been used to measure patient experience, but psychological research suggests that subjective experience is actually a composite of several independent concepts including: (a) evaluation/valence, (b) potency/control, (c) activity/arousal, and (d) novelty. The present research evaluates the reliability of a multidimensional patient experience measurement questionnaire in a clinical setting.

Method:

A multidimensional semantic differential questionnaire was developed to measure the four underlying semantic dimensions of patient experience mentioned above. A group of 60 patients used the questionnaire to assess prescan expectations and postscan experience of a magnetic resonance scan.

Results:

Data for one patient were deleted because their scan was interrupted. Results revealed more positive evaluation/valence, higher potency/control, and lower activity/arousal for postscan ratings compared to prescan expectations. Ratings of novelty were neutral in both the prescan and the postscan conditions. Subsequent analysis suggested that internal consistency for some concepts could be improved by replacing several specific rating scales.

Conclusions:

Present results provide evidence of the utility and reliability of a multidimensional semantic questionnaire for measuring patient experience in an actual clinical setting. Recommendations to improve internal consistency for the concepts potency/control, activity/arousal, and novelty were also provided.